Augusta Family Magazine April 2015

April 2015 MANAGING YOUR CHILD’S CURIOSITY SPORTS SNACKS SET UP A SIMPLE CLEANING ROUTINE

Family am AUGUSTA

m a g a z i n e

SUMMER

Camp Guide Logan Cira, 6, is the son of Sam and Jacque Cira of Evans.

Family AUGUSTA

m a g a z i n e

ww w. a u g u s tafamily.co m PUBLISHER Kate Cooper Metts

Contents

April 2015

EDITOR Karin Calloway PRODUCTION Art Director / Web Producer Michael Rushbrook Graphic Artist Chris Goodman ADVERTISING Director of Advertising Lisa Dorn Advertising Sales Doressa Hawes Lisa Taylor Maidi McMurtrie Thompson Mary Porter Vann

23

18

Managing Curiosity Without Killing the Questions

Cool Camps Our Annual Guide to Summer Day Camps Across the CSRA

By Lucy Adams

By Lucy Adams Photography by Branch Carter

Audience Development Manager Jessica Seigler PHOTOGRAPHY Branch Carter and John Harpring CONTRIBUTORS Lucy Adams Kim Beavers, MS, RD, CDE J. Ron Eaker, M.D. Cammie Jones Mary Ashton Mills Jennie Montgomery Augusta Family Magazine is published 10 times per year and distributed throughout the Augusta and Aiken area. Send press releases, story ideas or comments to the editor at karin.calloway@augustafamily.com or mail to 127A 7th Street, Augusta, GA 30901 or telephone (706) 828-3946.

For advertising information, telephone (706) 823-3702. For circulation/ distribution, call (706) 823-3722.

departments 7 9

editor’s page mom2mom

Helmet Head at Hilton Head -Jennie Montgomery

10 13

15

April 16

smart mom’s guide Becoming a Clean Machine -Cammie Jones

32

inspiration station

news&notes eating well with kim

Ready to Re-Start Kids Restart Provides a Wealth of Support Services for Reuniting Families in Augusta

-Kim Beavers, MS, RD, LD, CDE and Benjamin Sisic, MS

-Mary Ashton Mills

Sports Nutrition for Kids

doctor/dad

Never Run With Your Wife

34 46

-J. Ron Eaker, M.D.

calendar go girl!

Crystal Neal

-Karin Calloway

qu ick pick “Unique features of people grab children’s focus and trigger the need to know. I think dissimilarities stand out because as humans we are far more alike than different. All of us everywhere are programmed at birth to seek novelty, to be curious.” Read Lucy Adams’ article on managing children’s curiosity about those who are different on page 18.

ON THE COVER: Logan Cira, 6, is the son of Sam and Jacque Cira of Evans. Clothing and props provided by Kid to Kid. Photo by Branch Carter.

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editor’s

by Karin Calloway

Congratulations!

T

en years ago I received a call from an old friend and colleague, Kate Metts, publisher of Augusta Magazine, inviting me to meet for lunch.

It had been quite a while since we’d connected, so I was curious about her request, but was happy to visit with one of my “newsroom buddies” from the mid-80s.

Kate’s motive in inviting me to lunch was to ask me to get involved in a new project— serving as the founding editor of Augusta Family Magazine. I already had multiple part-time freelance jobs and was busy running around with my two busy children, who were in middle school. But I’ve never been able to resist a new project, and this sounded like the perfect fit for this journalist-mom.

The years have been filled with lots of excitement, as we built this award-winning publication. In fact, for the seventh consecutive year we received awards from the national Parenting Media Association. We were awarded two gold awards, one to Art Director Michael Rushbrook for Interior Illustration and another to Jennie Montgomery for her Mom2Mom Family Humor Column. Three silver awards were received as well, two to Lucy Adams for Service Feature and General Feature Writing, and one for Special Section for our annual Spirit of Nursing section for the Georgia Nurses Association. Congratulations to our entire team for bringing home these prestigious awards!

The nearly 10 years we’ve been in print have been a joy for me professionally and personally, and a large part of that is due to Kate. As publisher, she’s built a family friendly work environment with a hard working, world-class team.

I’m happy and sad to report that Kate is leaving our publishing group. Happy because Kate will be fulfilling her lifelong dream of working in the ministry. Sad, because I will miss her personally and professionally.

Here’s to Kate and her new endeavor, and to Michael, Jennie, Lucy and the rest of our contributors and team for another award-winning year.

Until May,

KARIN CALLOWAY is a wife and mother of two. She’s also a journalist and recipe developer who writes the Wednesday cooking column for The Augusta Chronicle. Watch Karin prepare her recipes on WJBF NewsChannel 6 on Tuesdays during Mid-Day and Wednesdays during Good Morning Augusta.

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2

mom m m Helmet Head at Hilton Head

ILLUSTRATION BY MICHAEL RUSHBROOK

by Jennie Montgomery

I

t’s funny how one quick glimpse of an image can bring back memories that have been stored away for years. I was dodging-darting lane changers and drifting semis on I-85 in Charlotte, when I saw an SUV with bikes attached to the back. Instantly I felt a thud in the middle of my back...a phantom thud, if you will.

That family with bikes looked beach-bound for spring break; I was getting my college freshman for spring break.

Those bikes + Sky Baby = Hilton Head Island.

When our kids were little, we spent lots of time on bikes at HHI. I’ll never forget how funny the kids looked in rental helmets. You see, those rentals are basically round sturdy white Styrofoam—twice the size of a toddler’s head! Scott and I cracked up and took many pictures our kids in those E.T. helmets.

Getting ready for a family ride with a 1, 2 and 3 year old required teamwork. We had to adjust everyone’s helmets, strap the older two into Scott’s “toddler trailer,” and then buckle Sky into the baby seat on my bike.

Finally, we were ready to explore bike paths and wide sandy beaches!

We’d never get very far, it seemed, when I’d feel it…the thud against my back. The very first time it happened I was all, “Oh no! What is that?” because I couldn’t see behind my back.

Scott hollered back, “She’s out.”

BOOM. Just like that, Sky Baby was out like a light. We hadn’t gone a halfmile and she was fast asleep! She napped for most of the bike ride and I got used to the constant vibration of her helmet-head on my back.

It wasn’t a one-time thing. That baby girl never experienced a full bike ride awake! I could always count on the sudden thud in the middle of my back.

I smile to myself—in spite of the hectic traffic—because 18 years later not much has changed. I know once my college freshman gets in the car and buckles her seat belt, it won’t be long until she’s fast asleep.g Good thing I’ll be the one driving! v JENNIE MONTGOMERY anchors the evening news at WJBF-TV. She and her husband, Scott, have three children: Zack, 21, Maddy, 20, and Sky, 19

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news notes

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Cell Phones

THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE have lost their lives needlessly because people continue to use their cell phones while driving. The National Safety Council estimates that 1 in 4 car crashes involve cell phone use.

In recognition of April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month, Safe Kids Greater Augusta and the National Safety Council want you to remember that one call can change everything. Hang up the phone when you get behind the wheel.

Safe Kids Greater Augusta, led by Children’s Hospital of Georgia, works to prevent accidental childhood injury, the leading killer of children ages 1 to 14. Safe Kids Greater Augusta is a member of the Safe Kids Worldwide & USA network. To find out more about local Safe Kids programs, call 706-721-7606, or visit grhealth.org/safekids. Read the whole article about using cell phones while driving and Distracted Driving Awareness Month at www.augustafamily.com.

Ready... get set... go!

Dip-dyed T-shirts, whipped cream on noses and relay races… those are just a few of the playful activities Kath Girdler Engler offered local children during her Run With Art camps. That same infectious spirit of fun will be part of the inaugural 5K Run With Art, held in Engler’s memory on Saturday, April 18.

The event will feature a 5K run in downtown Augusta, starting at HealthSouth/Walton Rehabilitation Hospital (a presenting sponsor), a one-mile fun run and a mini Run With Art camp, featuring many of the same games and activities Engler shared with her campers over the years.

The Run With Art event is being held in conjunction with Walton Foundation for Independence’s Undercover Artists Show fundraiser, which takes place the preceding Thursday, April 16—with both events benefiting the foundation’s camp programs, including Camp To Be Independent and Walton Winter Weekend.

Engler was a longtime supporter of the Walton Foundation and the Undercover Artists Show and this inaugural 5K honors causes very close to her heart—art, fitness and children. For more information or to register, visit www.waltonfoundation.net/5K.

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FOLLOW US ONLINE! facebook.com/augustafamilymagazine twitter.com/AUGFamilyMag

View Our On-Line Extras at www.AUGUSTAFAMILY.com

Register To Win! 5 April 201

Family A AUGUST

CHILD’S G YOUR MANAGIN Y CURIOSIT SNACKS SPORTS SIMPLE SET UP A ROUTINE CLEANING

e a z i n m a g

e

Camp Guid SU M M ER

Logan Cira,

6, is the son

of Sam and

Jacque Cira

of Evans.

FRESH FACES

LET IT RAIN

IS YOUR CHILD READY FOR THEIR “close up?” If you think you’ve got a “cover kid,” submit their photo and information on our website and they may grace the cover of Augusta Family Magazine!

HERE’S YOUR CHANCE

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to attend the longest running, most successful Beatle tribute show in the world direct from Broadway.

April 22 at the Bell.

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BLIND WILLIE MCTELL DON’T MISS IT. Singing the Blues. Register for tickets to the 22nd Annual Blind Willie McTell Festival, May 9th.

SHREK, THE MUSICAL ENTER TO WIN four tickets to the Friday, May 8th

show of the Augusta Players presentation of Shrek, The Musical!

...Parks... ...Restaurants... ...Museums... ...Playgrounds...

! c i t s a T AppMom Maps

FIND KID-RIENDLY PLACES AND FAMILY FUN AREAS WITH MOM MAPS! Perfect for spring break and summer vacation or whenever you visit somewhere new with children in tow. Mom Maps helps you find family fun and kid-friendly locations on the go. Search an extensive list of kids parks, kids playgrounds, kids restaurants, kids museums and kids indoor play areas. Search by category or zip code and you’re good to go. In addition to a comprehensive kids play guide, you’ll find contact information, reviews by parents/for parents and directions. Over 28,000 locations supported. It’s a crowd-based app, so add your favorite CSRA locations!

Mom Maps now available both for Android and iPhone.

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eating well with kim

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by Kim Beavers, MS, RD, LD, CDE, and Benjamin Sisic, MS

Sports Nutrition for Kids Prevent Loss of Focus and Help Kids Develop Healthy Snacking Habits

Y

oung children need snacks because they are growing at a rapid rate and their stomachs can only hold so much food at any given time. It is important to provide structured meals and snacks to support their rate of growth and development.

As children grow it can become less clear as to when they “need” snacks. How often do you see a team of 6 year olds receive a high-calorie chip + fruit drink or doughnut + Gatorade® snack after standing around on the ball field for a brief 30-minute game? This is an example of unhealthy snacking and is more habit than necessity.

The remedy is simple: Replace unhealthy snacking with healthy snacking. As children get older, more rigorous sports activities ensue, and snacks before or after the sporting event become more of a necessity. The type of snack, however, is of paramount importance. Snacks should include wholefood choices from the food groups (lean meats and fish, nuts, vegetables, fruits, beans, whole grains and dairy).

Kids need a whole-foods diet any time of the day, but especially before practice or games. Why? It's to provide good fuel to maintain focus and to prevent blood sugar from dropping. When our blood sugar goes too low there is a loss of focus, or zone-out, and when this happens children are much more likely to get injured.

To create a health snack try to include at least 2 but preferably 3 food groups. Use the table on the right and examples provided to help you come up with healthy snack ideas.

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eating well with kim

Protein and Dairy Grilled chicken Hummus or bean dip Greek yogurt Milk or Low fat cheese Edamame Nut butter or nuts Lean turkey or roast beef

Whole Grain (WG)

Fruit

Vegetable

Crackers Tortilla (trans fat free) Brown rice Pasta English muffin half

Apples Bananas

Carrots Cucumbers

Pears Grapes Melon slices

Bread

Orange wedges Berries

Sugar snap peas Salad Red bell pepper slices Celery

Examples: r "QQMF TMJDFT QFBOVU CVUUFS HMBTT PG NJML r (SJMMFE DIJDLFO UPSUJMMB MPX GBU DIFFTF r &EBNBNF DSBDLFST DBOUBMPVQF TMJDFT r 4BMBE IBMG PG B HSJMMFE DIFFTF PO XIPMF XIFBU r (SFFL :PHVSU CMVFCFSSJFT r 8IPMF HSBJO DFSFBM OVUT PS TFFET SBJTJOT 8BUFS JT TUJMM UIF CFTU ESJOL UP NFFU IZESBUJPO OFFET #VU XIBU BCPVU TQPSUT ESJOLT MJLF (BUPSBEFÂĄ PS 1PXFS"EFÂĄ ŃŽPTF UFOE UP CF 0, EVSJOH QSBDUJDF PS HBNFT 3FNFNCFS UIPVHI B PVODF (BUPSBEF DPOUBJOT HSBNT PG TVHBS DPN JOH GSPN IJHI GSVDUPTF DPSO TZSVQ MJNJUFE DPOTVNQUJPO SFDPNNFOEFE

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Energy Boost Banana Smoothie This smoothie is great for a quick snack, providing both nutrients and energy with some staying power. ½ cup skim milk 1 tablespoon honey 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter 1 banana, frozen 1 tablespoon wheat germ, ax meal or chia seed 1 container (5.3 ounces) Greek yogurt Peel the banana before freezing and slice in half or into smaller pieces (this will help the smoothie come together faster than if you put a whole frozen banana in the blender).

Place all ingredients in blender and process until smooth.

Yield: 2 servings (serving size: 1 cup) Nutrient Breakdown: Calories 260, Fat 9g (1g saturated fat), Sodium 115mg,

Carbohydrate 33g, Fiber 4g, Protein 14g Kim’s note: You can keep a freezer bag with slices of bananas in your freezer. This way you will always have bananas on hand anytime you want a smoothie. v

KIM BEAVERS is a Registered Dietitian and Diabetes Educator for University Health Care System. She lives in North Augusta with her husband and two children and she is the co-host of the culinary nutrition segment Eating Well with Kim, which airs at noon Monday, Wednesday and Friday on WRDW. To join the recipe club or view recipes, visit www. universityhealth.org/ewwk. You can also watch the segments at www.wrdw.com/ewwk.

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Summer Camp ummer Cam

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doctor dad

by J. Ron Eaker, M.D.

WHY YOU SHOULD

NEVER RUN WITH YOUR WIFE

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.”

- Robert Frost

I

t began innocently enough, but in the end would have been grounds for divorce in 22 states! I was speaking at a conference at a beautiful lakeside resort and was hoping to get in a run before my morning presentation. The hotel was magnificently situated on hundreds of wooded acres with two golf courses cut from the fabric of the landscape.

My wife had accompanied me on this trip as she knew of the splendor of the location and wanted to drink it in for herself. We don’t normally run together, as our schedules and biorhythms rarely coincide, but on this early October morning we had both the opportunity and motivation to venture out side by side.

I had measured the distance from the entrance of the property to the hotel and had mapped out a simple five-mile route for the occasion. It was a brisk morning, enough for a long-sleeved shirt and gloves, and we stretched and warmed up by the first tee. It was too early for the golfers so we speculated that a run on the golf course was not out of the question if we wanted to “live on the wild side.” About that time I spotted a jogging path lying parallel to the first hole and suggested we follow that instead. Susan agreed, so I started my Garmin 405 GPS watch and off we went.

The first few miles were surprisingly hilly and we easily broke into a cool sweat. We kept a slow pace

because of the topography and enjoyed the scenery.

Three deer ran across our path onto the golf course ahead and the squirrels, with their abundant numbers, looked like they were having a convention of their own. I had planned our departure to allow for about an hour run to get me safely back to the hotel in time to shower and prepare for my talk.

After running for about half an hour I noticed that the color-coordinated trail markers had changed from their original yellow color to black. I remember taking a few turns and forks, but thinking this was a simple circular route, I didn’t pay much attention to the details. I mentioned this change to Susan and she didn’t seem too concerned, so we ventured on. After another mile it became clear that we were not going in a circle but were, in fact, traveling farther and farther from our home base. I have the sense of direction of a cross-eyed pelican, so we soon realized that we were lost and already about five miles from whence we started. We were obviously in a golf-course neighborhood, but at 7 in the morning and dressed in black tights I was not about to knock on any doors and ask directions. We did the only logical thing we could think of and started to retrace our path in hopes of rediscovering the way home.

Mistake! As I said, I could get lost in a mall parking lot, so depending on me to follow the breadcrumbs home is like a blind person following Google Maps. At this point two concerns were percolating in my brain, first, would I make it back in time for my talk, and second, would my wife kill me for turning our five-mile fun jog into a 10-mile juggernaut?

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Life, Like Politics, Has Consequences I tell this tale to illustrate the universal law of unintended consequences. I started out with a plan in mind and ended up with my wife asking a passing motorist for the name of a good divorce attorney.

President Obama’s health care debacle reeks of unintended consequences. Regardless of the moral high-ground and good intentions of universal coverage, it cannot and will not arrive without unforeseen and unintended consequences. Herein lies the dilemma. We won’t know many of these effects until years into the change.

The HIPPA laws passed by Congress are another example. They were intended for a noble purpose, protecting the privacy of the patient. However, they have morphed into regulations that make nuclear facilities look simple and paperwork that has singlehandedly deforested the Amazon basin.

Be prepared for some form of restrictions (i.e. rationing), tax hikes (there is no other way to pay for it all), lower quality care (dumbing down just like in the public schools) and more fraud (unscrupulous doctors and executives unwilling to give up their house in the mountains). The system is indeed in need of repair, but to strap us all with a complete overhaul is like buying a new car when all you need is a lube job.

By the way, I did make it back in time from the run to give my presentation and my wife has not filed for divorce, so far. v Dr. Eaker is an Augusta Ob/GYN and author. He and his wife, Susan, have two daughters in college.

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smartMom’sguide

by Cammie Jones

G BECOMIN

A

N A E L C HINE MAC

Steps to Setting Up a Simple Cleaning Routine

C

leaning the house is quite a task, especially if you have little ones constantly messing it up! Teens are really not much better. I don’t understand why the floor is considered a good place to put your clothes after you wear or try them on. That’s for another article, but the thought of cleaning my house does sometimes make me shudder a little. It’s not that I don’t like cleaning.

Truly, I don’t mind it—and the end product is worth the work—but it’s setting aside the time to do it that makes it difficult. Here are a few tips to help you set a cleaning routine that works for you.

1. Check Your Cleaning Supplies Before you even begin to tackle the cleaning at hand, take inventory of your supplies. Make sure you have a dusting/wood polishing spray, a bathroom cleaner, floor cleaner, kitchen surface cleaner, a good mop, a broom, dusting apparatus of some sort, etc. Remember that some household items such as vinegar, lemon juice and rubbing alcohol can also be used to clean most anything. Coffee filters are a great household tool for cleaning windows and don’t leave ink on your hands like newspaper, which is also great on glass, does.

Robert Ledford, owner of the Augusta Merry Maids says you should make sure your vacuum and equipment are in good working order. He also suggests purchasing microfiber rags because they work well on dust.

Once supplies are accounted for, it’s a good idea to keep them in one area that is easily accessible. That can be a particular cabinet, a traveling caddy of some sort, a bucket or on a shelf or shelves in a closet. Keep everything in one place so that when it’s time to be-

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gin your routine, you can find what you need to be a cleaning machine!

2. Create a Master Cleaning List The next step is to create a master list. Better Homes and Gardens (on bhg.com) suggests that you list all the rooms and areas in your home that need regular cleanings, including hallways, stairways and entryways. Don’t worry about rooms you don’t often use, such as the basement or guest room. Just plan to work them in seasonally, or as needed.

Visit each room and create a list of what needs to be cleaned. There are many lists on the Internet but you may want to create one that is specific to you and your home. For the bathroom, some tasks may be: r r r r r

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want an average duration, Ledford suggests every two weeks for a thorough cleaning, rotating baseboards, window blinds and any other detail work.

Also, before beginning to clean, remove any clutter that may get in your way.

If every two weeks doesn’t work for you there are many alternate plans from which to choose. AccordJOH UP 3VUI 4PVLVQ CMPHHFS PO MJWJOHXFMMTQFOEJOHless.com, here are a few options: Option A—Daily Speed Cleaning This is the best way to keep your house from getting messy because you are tidying up every day.

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3. Set a Schedule & Plan of Action

Option B—Timed Sessions This option follows a weekly master list of jobs where you set aside a certain amount of time each day UP EFEJDBUF UP DMFBOJOH 4UBSU BU UIF UPQ PG UIF MJTU BOE XPSL ZPVS XBZ EPXO 8IFO UJNF JG PWFS F H NJOutes to an hour) you stop. The next day you pick up where you left off the previous day.

Do you need to clean once a week, daily, once a month? This, of course, depends on your family’s situation. A couple with no children who work outside the home during the week will have a completely different schedule than the stay-at-home parent of young children who are not in school all day. If you

Option C—One Room or Major Task Each Day If you do this option, each chore will occur on a certain day. For example, clean the bathrooms on Monday, wash sheets on Tuesday, dust and vacuum PO 8FEOFTEBZ юJT JT B TJNQMF TDIFEVMF UIBU JT FBTZ UP remember each week.

You can keep your lists near the cleaning supplies for easy reference.

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smartMom’sguide Option D—Everything in One Day “This can be a great option if you work during the week and would rather clean on the weekends, or if your kids are older and everyone will pitch in to get all the chores done fast,� says Soukup.

Pick a day that works for you and dedicate it to house cleaning. It may be a long day but the benefit is that you have almost a week or two off before you have to tackle it again, depending on the time you choose between cleanings.

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4. Get to Work!

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Once you have chosen a way to go about cleaning your house, there’s no time like the present to get to work. The success will depend on if the plan and schedule you chose works for your lifestyle.

Be flexible and make changes as needed to make it effective for you. “If you stay on your scheduled routine, just general straightening will be needed on a daily basis,� adds Ledford Although it may seem daunting at first, in the long run it will be worth it when your house is spic and span! v

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About the survey: 5IF .FSSZ .BJET *OTJEF %JSU PO 4QSJOH $MFBOJOH 4VSWFZ QSFTFOUT UIF mOEJOHT PG BO POMJOF TVSWFZ DPO EVDUFE CZ 5PMVOB GSPN .BSDI BNPOH B TBNQMF PG BEVMUT JO UIF 6 4 DPNQSJTJOH NFO BOE XPNFO ZFBST PG BHF BOE PMEFS 5IF NBSHJO PG FSSPS GPS B TBNQMF PG UIJT TJ[F JT QMVT PS NJOVT

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

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curiosity manage

without killing the questions

By Lucy Adams

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M

y 2, 4, and 6-year-old sons exuberantly jumped up and down beside our car. Wild excitement akin to the kind that overtakes kids after consuming a bag of Skittles drove them into a frenzy of hopping, pointing and loudly observing, “Mama, a pirate! A pirate!” The 2-year-old, not yet able to leap from the ground, rose up and down on his tiptoes, gesturing and squealing, “Pite! Pite!”

I glanced across the parking lot in the direction of the object of their enthusiasm. A man wearing a bandana on his head stood on the sidewalk stuffing bills—not gold—into his wallet. As my boys couldn’t quash their thrill over spotting a real, live pirate this far from the high seas, they continued their boisterous expression of awe.

The man looked up and gazed directly at us. A black eye patch— could this be happening to me— glinted in the sun.

My three little lads, aghast at their luck on this glorious afternoon, noted it in heightened tones. The man’s single earring wasn’t missed by them, either.

As the southern saying goes, I like-ta died. Mortified, I shushed and scolded and hurried my brood along, avoiding a second episode of eye contact with the victim. “I don’t think he’s a pirate,” I said. “He’s riding away on a motorcycle.”

For two days, my sons speculated about the pirate: how he lost his eye, where he parked his ship, what the rest of the crew was off doing, what he did with his gold, if he had hair under his bandana, why he rode a motorcycle. They picked my brain for any insight I might bestow about these mysteries.

Cause and Purpose of Curiosity It isn’t every day, of course, that a pirate comes parading out of the local post office. “It’s natural for children to be interested in differences in other people,” says Dr. Bernard Davidson, PhD, associate professor of psychiatry and health behavior at Georgia Regents University. The human brain is programmed to discern pattern in the environment and to identify people, objects and situations that stand out from the ordinary. “Novelty is the cause of curiosity,” explains Dr. David Elkind, PhD, professor emeritus at Tufts University and author of Parenting on the Go: Birth to 6, A to Z. Dr. Davidson adds, “The child is innately predisposed to seek out novelty. Children are naturally curious.” Inborn curiosity drives them to learn about the world around them. They observe. They touch. They talk. They question. Curiosity is the key to increasing one’s store of knowledge. Dr. Elkind says, “The aim of education is to get kids to ask questions, not accept the first idea presented to them.” He believes adults need to encourage the kind of curiosity that compels children to examine information. This tendency, he says, is a critical element of intelligence. It begins early in life.

Developmental Stages of Curiosity Expression of curiosity transforms as a child progresses through developmental stages and his or cognitive abilities change. Children ages 3 to 5 have an egocentric point of view, which means they have difficulty taking another’s perspective.

Therefore, empathy challenges them. They ask naïve questions such as “Why is he a different color?” or make innocent observations like “She has a big spot on her neck like a giraffe” in front of the person of interest. “This often rattles parents,” Dr. Davidson says, “but it reflects their child’s development.”

From around age 7 up to the beginning of adolescence, children enter the concrete operations stage of cognitive development. Dr. Davidson explains, “They’re capable of placing judgments or values on similarities and differences.

They rank differences.” Without proper guidance, negative attitudes can form.

By the teen years, most children can think in hypothetical and abstract terms. Their developing intellect allows them to process the complexities of differences. Gone are naïve observations and, hopefully, categorization of people based on differences in behavior or appearance. Dr. Davidson says, “Children can now take on the perspective of the other. They can start appreciating diversity.”

Responding To Children’s Curiosity Three things kill a kid’s curiosity: fear, disapproval and absence. A child growing up in a chaotic, unpredictable environment will respond by seeking stability rather than novelty. She will avoid new experiences and people. Parents who punish their child for expressions of curiosity discourage their child’s intense sense of interest in people and things. Finally, children who do not share a warm, responsive bond with a caregiver lack a safe base from which to explore and a person with whom to joyfully share discoveries.

“Curiosity is a healthy thing. You don’t want to discourage a child’s curiosity. You want to help him understand how to express it,” says Dr. Elkind. Accompanying “Stop. Don’t.

Quit.” with a smack on a child’s outstretched pointing hand delivers the message that differences are bad.

Discomfort that arises when a child calls attention to a person with a disability, a foreign accent, an odd manner of dressing, etc. can be linked in some cases to the parent’s experiences or beliefs. “Parents need to examine their own feelings about differences,” encourages Dr. Davidson. Once a parent gains awareness of her discomforts or prejudices, she can override them and guide the child toward an accepting attitude.

As children get older, unfolding experience will reduce the amount of novelty they encounter day to day.

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curiosity manage

without killing the questions

Parents can promote experience by exposing their children to a variety of people, languages, foods, settings and so forth. “It’s crucial to expose children to diversity. It makes them a better citizen of the world and promotes their cognitive development,” Dr. Davidson says. This active engagement satisfies the youngster’s need for interacting with unique things, places, ideas and people.

It nurtures positive feelings toward differences.

It pushes the child’s brain to work harder for the novelty it seeks. And it diminishes the number of occasions a parent is caught off guard by a child’s public display of curiosity.

Use those awkward situations, when they do occur, as teaching moments, understanding that although it feels uncomfortable for the parent, the child, especially a young child, is comfortable with differences and simply wants to know more. “Avoidance contributes to negative attitudes,” warns Dr. Davidson. If appropriate, introduce yourself and your child to a person who looks or behaves in a way that catches your child’s attention. Gain the person’s

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permission for your child to ask questions. If the situation doesn’t warrant that type of interaction, acknowledge the difference. Point out similarities. Discuss it more in-depth at a better time and place.

Dr. Elkind tells parents, “Help your child understand that curiosity works both ways. Other people are interested in us, too.” Encourage a child to imagine how she would feel if someone pointed or spoke loudly about her to someone else. Emphasize that we’re all different and prompt the child to name some ways that she is unique. “Turn it around and put the child in the other’s position. It’s part of teaching good manners,” Dr. Elkind says. “We don’t say things to make other people feel badly.”

That sunny August day of the pirate sighting, my young sons were wearing bright yellow rain boots with bulging animal eyes shaped into the rubber toes. One donned a homemade, silky, red and blue cape. One had on the upper portion of a dinosaur costume, his face peering out from the gaping jaws of the head. The third was carrying a purse filled with Batman figures. They made a ridiculous trio, and it is

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only now that I consider that the pirate, who shook his head in response to my children, needed only one good eye to judge us for a motley lot. (He must have had a million questions about us for his mates when he returned to the ship.)

Unique features of people grab children’s focus and trigger the need to know. I think dissimilarities stand out because as humans we are far more alike than different. All of us everywhere are programmed at birth to seek novelty, to be curious. Age and experience squash our questioning of the order of things. We as parents would do well to rediscover, recapture our own quest for novelty. Dr. Davidson says, “We should be as curious as kids.” Then we can share in their discoveries, encourage their quest for knowledge and aid them in their understanding of others. v Lucy Adams is a freelance writer and the author of Tuck Your Skirt in Your Panties and Run. She lives in Thomson, Ga., with her husband and their four children. Contact Lucy at lucybgoosey@aol.com.

Summer Fun

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Summer Camps

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OUR ANNUAL GUIDE TO SUMMER DAY CAMPS ACROSS THE CSRA

Cool Camps

W

arm spring afternoons optimistically hint to things to come. School’s almost out, and the multi-week reprieve peeks around the corner.

Lazy days loom ahead. Restless children count the minutes to summer break. Anticipation of memory-making adventures grows in

youthful hearts, but those long summer days won’t fill themselves. Thankfully, organizations across the CSRA offer up a variety of camps and programs that give parents peace of mind and children opportunities to learn, play and make new friends. u

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Cool Camps A CHILD’S WORLD 925 Stevens Creek Rd., Augusta, 706-863-9485.

4124 Madeline Dr., Augusta, 706-210-7000.

4204 Columbia Rd., Martinez, 706-860-0059.

3549 Windsor Spring Road, Hephzibah.

3118 Augusta Tech Drive, Augusta.

7100 Evans Town Center Blvd. Evans.

Summer Camp. Ages 4-12. Weekly camps start May 26. Hours vary by location. Breakfast, lunch and a snack are included. Fun for all ages with weekly themes. Water play, reading programs, field trips, dramatic play, art projects and more. School-age children also team with teachers to research different activities and planning for a group activity. Call for complete details.

AIKEN COUNTY PARKS, RECREATION AND TOURISM www.aikencountysc.gov/tourism.

803-642-7559 or 803-663-6142. tcooks@aikencountysc.gov.

Summer Adventure at Aiken County Recreation Center (Graniteville location). Ages 6-12.

Weekly, June 8-August 14. 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. $100 for two weeks or $55 for one week. Each day your child will learn new skills that will lead them down exciting new paths. Camp will feature arts and crafts, outdoor play, aquatics, science exploration, team sports, game sessions and more! Bring a sack lunch.

Two snacks provided.

ALDERSGATE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 Wheeler Rd. www.aldersgateum.com.

Shannon Cook, 706-733-4416.

Veggie Tales Day Camp. Ages 3-8. July 6-10. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. $75. VeggieTown Values. Bring sack lunch. Call for details.

ARTSY ME 4275-B Washington Rd., Evans. www.artsymestudio.com.

706-432-6396.

Cricket.artsyme@gmail.com. iCreate Camp. Weekly sessions, June 8-July 17. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $150 per week. Pack a lunch. Includes projects in clay, ceramics, canvas, glass fusing and junk art.

ART AND SOUL PAINTING PARTIES AND CLASSES 3850 Washington Rd. khwaters11@bellsouth.net.

706-550-8385.

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Art Camp. Ages 5 and up. Weekly, June 1-July 23.

Mon.-Thurs. from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $75 per session includes all supplies. Activities include acrylic paintings on canvas, watercolors and charcoal drawings.

There will be some sessions just for older children ages 9 and up.

children’s favorite. Children will explore in depth the choreography, music and specialties of this timeless holiday classic as presented each year by Dance Augusta. Students will learn a different section of Nutcracker choreography each day. The session will end with a special performance for friends and families.

ATHENS Y CAMPS

AUGUSTA CHEER ACADEMY

Tallulah Falls, Ga. www.athensycamps.org Athens Y Camp for Boys and Camp Chattooga for Girls are brother-sister camps located adjacent to each other in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Georgia. Campers participate in both separate and shared programs during week-long sessions.

4150 Washington Rd., Suite 4, Evans. www.augustacheeracademy.com. rutley33@augustacheeracademy.com.

706-364-1138.

Please call or check their website for camp or clinic information.

AUGUSTA CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS Traditional Residential Camp. Ages 7-14. Eight one-week sessions, June 7-August 1. (No camp June 28-July 4.) $715 per session, plus $45 store fee. A typical day includes cabin cleanup, league games, rest hour, classes, free-time, morning and evening assemblies, evening activities and cabin devotions.

313 Baston Rd. 706-863-2905 ext. 136. www.augustachristian.org. lynnwilkerson@augustachristian.org.

Adventure Program. Ages 12-14. Eight one-week sessions, June 7-August 1. (No camp June 28-July 4.) $795 per session, plus $45 store fee. A beginner level program for campers interested in outdoor adventure/sports. High and low ropes course activities, zip-line rides, the climbing tower, and repelling instruction. Participants will also enjoy a day of rock climbing and repelling on “real rock” away from camp.

AUGUSTA BALLET SCHOOL

Science Camp: Motion Commotion! Rising 1st6th grade. June 15-19. 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. The early bird camp fee is $150 through April 15. On April 16 the camp fee goes up to $175. Camp fee includes tshirt. A week of imagination, invention and creativity all combined with science. Soak in the wonder of how God has made things to move. Explore the concepts of motion and create your own customized high-flying rocket. Overcome gravity by testing and launching your rocket. Race your marble through a maze of your own making. Design your maze to pick up the pace, slow it down and change its direction.

Go green by reusing and recycling materials to build and invent machines that move. Welcome special guests, Bricks 4 Kidz, who will teach about engineering, math, programming and more by using Lego bricks to complete interactive, remote-controlled, and motorized models! Kids team up and learn the basic skills of engineering designs using gears, axles, pulleys, and many other components. Build awesome moving models and design on your own!

2941 Walton Way. www.augustaballetschool.com.

706-733-5511. augustaballetschool@knology.net.

Augusta Ballet School will offer a variety of summer classes. Please call or visit their website for a schedule.

Nutcracker Dance Camps. Ages 3-5, June 1-5 and June 8-12, 2:30-4:30 p.m., $105; Ages 6-8, June 15-19, 2:30-5 p.m., $115. This summer classic is a

ASAP Summer Camp Program. May 26-August 6. Monday-Friday. 7 a.m.-6 p.m. $125 per week. 9 a.m.-3 p.m., $75 per week. There is a $50 non-refundable registration fee. The purpose of the ASAP Summer Program is to provide a safe, structured environment that brings fun to students who have completed K5–5th grades. Children are involved in arts and crafts, sports, field trips, daily devotionals,

Leader In Training (LIT). Ages 15-16. Session 1: June 1-June 27; Sessions 2: July 5-Augusta 1. $1400 per session, plus $150 store fee. LITs receive intensive training in areas such as program planning and development, child development, vespers, child abuse recognition, CPR and Lifeguard training. After being prepared, LIT’s are placed in cabins to get a “hands on” experience and to assist the counselors.

LITs must register just like other campers.

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ENRICHMENT CAMPS/PROGRAMS

Cool Camps children’s church and much more. Every Friday is Water Fun Day. SAT Prep Course. July 20-30. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday-Thursday. $270, includes book. Thirty hours of instruction including time for student questions. 4-5 full-length practice exams with detailed explanations and score report. Math, Critical Reading and Writing—all covered in detail. Use of real College Board (previous) tests for practice and other College Board materials.

Art Camp. Rising 3rd-8th graders. May 26-29 or July 21-24. Tuesday-Friday. 10 a.m.-noon. $150 plus $25 registration fee. Class must have a minimum of 4 students with a maximum of 10 students. Includes opportunities for creativity with clay, drawing, painting, mixed media and other. iStudy for Success. Rising 6th, 7th and 8th grades.

July 27-July 30. 9 a.m.-noon. $125. Learn valuable study skills for success in middle school and beyond.

Includes workbook.

ATHLETIC CAMPS Participants will receive instruction in individual skill development as well as learning team concepts.

ACS athletics seeks to build student-athletes in areas of spiritual growth, motivation, and mental approaches to the game. Unless otherwise noted, the cost for each camp is $80 for Augusta Christian students or $90 for non-Augusta Christian students.

Boys Baseball. Rising 3rd-8th grades. June 8-11.

9 a.m.-noon.

Boys Baseball. Rising 3rd-8th grades. July 6-10. 9 a.m.-noon.

Boys Basketball. Rising 1st-5th grades. May 2629. 9 a.m.-noon.

Boys Basketball. Rising 6th-12th grades. May 2629. 1-4 p.m.

Girls Basketball. Rising 1st-6th grades. June 1-4.

9 a.m.-noon.

Girls Basketball. Rising 7th-12th grades. June 1-4.

1-4 p.m.

Co-Ed Basketball. Rising 3rd-6th grades. June 1517. Monday-Wednesday. 3:30-6:30 p.m. $40.

Cheer Camp. Rising 1st-3rd grades. June 22-25. 9 a.m.-noon. This camp will be held at the Fury’s Ferry Campus gym, 470 Fury’s Ferry Rd. Cheer Camp. Rising 4th-5th grades. June 22-25.

1-4 p.m. This camp will be held at the Fury’s Ferry Campus gym, 470 Fury’s Ferry Rd. Football. Rising 4th-8th grades. June 8-11, 9 a.m.noon.

Football. Rising 3rd-9th grades. July 22-24. 11 a.m.1 p.m.

Soccer U8-U10. June 22-25. 9 a.m.-noon.

Soccer U12-U14. June 22-25. 1–4 p.m.

Girls Softball. Rising 5th-8th grades. June 8-11. 9 a.m.-noon.

camp. $100 per week May 26-29 (no camp May 25).

All mini campers will participate in swimming, arts and crafts and many other activities during the camp week. Our mini camp takes place in The Bee Hive Preschool housed in the AJCC.

AUGUSTA PLAYERS www.augustaplayers.org.

706-826-4707. summercamp@augustaplayers.org or info@augustaplayers.org.

Theatre Camps. Ages 6-teen. Two sessions, June 15-26 and July 13-24. Both camps will be held at Crossbridge Baptist Church on Skinner Mill Road.

Children are placed in age-appropriate groups and have structured activities focusing on the various aspects of musical theatre. Master Class available for experienced teens. Cost for each two-week session is $275-$325.

AUGUSTA PREPARATORY DAY Girls Volleyball. 4th-8th grades. July 20-23. 4:30- SCHOOL 7:30 p.m., Wednesday 3-6 p.m.

John Harris Elite Skills Camp. Rising 3rd-12th grade boys and girls. July 13-17. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $175.

Lunch included.

285 Flowing Wells Rd., Martinez. www.augustaprep.org.

706-863-1906.

Visit their website for the latest camp information and online registration.

AJCC-AUGUSTA JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER

AUGUSTA PREP CAMP CAVALIER

898 Weinberger Way, Evans (off Fury’s Ferry Rd. between Hardy McManus Rd. and N. Belair Rd.). www.augustajcc.org.

706-228-3636.

All camp staff is first-aid and CPR certified. All lifeguard staff is first-aid, CPR and WSI (Water Safety Instructor) certified. See website for discounts available.

Ants Camp. Rising Pre-School and Pre-K. Weekly, June 1–July 24. (No camp June 29-July 3.) 9 a.m.-3 p.m., $200/week; 9 a.m.-noon, $110/week. Campers explore a new theme each week through games and activities. A snack is provided. Bring a lunch each day.

AJCC Summer Day Camp. Ages 3-13. Eleven sessions from May 26-August 7. Monday through Friday 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Early drop off and late stay available for an additional fee. $160 per week for regular 5-day camp. $130 per week May 2629 (no camp May 25). $225 per week for specialty camps. Visit website in late April for info on specialty camps to be offered. All campers, including specialty campers, will participate in swimming, tennis, archery, taekwondo and arts and crafts during the camp week AJCC Summer Mini Camp. Ages 3-4. Eleven sessions from May 26-August 7. Monday through Friday 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. $125 per week for 5-day

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Grasshoppers Camp. Rising Kindergarten-3rd grade. Weekly, June 1–July 24. (No camp June 29July 3.) 9 a.m.-3 p.m., $200/week. Campers explore a new theme each week through arts and crafts, music, movement, games and activities. Bring a lunch each day.

Mission: Fun Camp. Rising 4th–7th grade.

Weekly, June 1–July 31. (No camp June 29-July 3.)

8 a.m.–4 p.m., $200/week; 8 a.m.–noon, $100/week.

Summer is meant for fun and this camp is packed full of it! Campers can attend week after week as each themed session will feature exciting outdoor excursions, indoor games, arts and crafts, team building exercises and much more, all uniquely designed to fit the weekly theme! u

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Cool Camps AUGUSTA PREP SPECIALTY CAMPS Art with PERSPECTIVE! Rising 4th-7th grade.

June 8-12. 9 a.m.-noon. $120. Price includes all materials. This course teaches students about the important aspects of visual perception and the techniques that artists use to create pictures with the illusion of three-dimensional space and form.

Arts of Asia. Rising 4th-7th grade. June 8-12. Noon3 p.m. $120. Price includes all materials. Come learn even more about the visual arts of Asia. Students will create several Asian-inspired projects using clay, paint and dyes with fun and exciting materials.

Pop! Art (2D). Rising 4th-7th grade, June 15–19; Rising 2nd-4th grade, June 22-26. 9 a.m.-noon. $120.

Price includes all materials. This course provides an in-depth study of the fascinating Pop! Art movement from American art history. The students will create several projects in paint, print making and drawing while learning about the work of famous American Pop! artists.

Pop! Art (3D). Rising 4th-7th grade, June 15-19; Rising 2nd-4th grade, June 22-26. Noon-3 p.m. $120. Price includes all materials. This course provides a more in-depth study of the fascinating Pop! Art movement from American art history. The students will create several projects in sculpture, ceramics, and mixed-media while learning about the work of famous American Pop! artists.

Creative Writing. Rising 5th-8th grade. July 2731. Noon-1:30 p.m. $140. Students who enroll in the camp develop their skills as emerging writers through differentiated writing instruction, one-onone writing support and fun writing workshop sessions. With a focus on the creative process and personal expression, students will write short stories, personal narratives, poems or song lyrics and work collaboratively to improve their writing craft. Each camp participant is invited to an author’s session during which they will share a piece of their personal writing and engage in a lively celebration of the art of expression.

Forensic Science. Rising 4th-9th grade. June 1519. 9 a.m.–noon. $150. Explore the science behind crime investigation through mock crime scenes, gathering and processing evidence, analyzing data and attempting to link the evidence to the correct suspect.

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Programming and Game Design. Rising 4th-9th grade. June 15-19. 1-4 p.m. $150. Use the Alice and Python programming languages to craft a variety of useful programs and amusing games. Apply what you learn about programming to build and manipulate a simple robot using LEGO NXT equipment. No experience required, but intermediate users are welcome. Students will receive information packets for the topics covered, a flash drive with all of the software used in class, and a certificate of completion.

Introduction to Robotics. Rising 4th-9th grade.

June 15-19. 9 a.m.-noon. $150. Students will explore the field of Robotics and learn about design and programming principles while constructing simple robots that will move and interact with the environment.

USA Chess. Rising 1st-11th grade. June 8-12.

Please visit www.activelearningcamps.com or call 888-652-4377 for registration and pricing information. Campers experience chess instruction and play in a fun-filled environment designed to improve their skills whether they are interested in casual or competitive chess.

Kodu Video Game Creation. Rising 2nd-11th grade. June 8-12. Please visit www.activelearningcamps.com or call 888-652-4377 for registration and pricing information. In this program campers will have the option of learning how to program using a Microsoft Xbox controller! Children will create their own cool custom world and navigate through it. Within this world, campers will create tasks that need to be completed in order to progress to the next level. Some of those tasks include escaping a sewer maze, survival mode, outwitting rivals, creating decoys, and collecting bonus items all while having fun and using their creativity.

Video Game Creation. Rising 3rd-11th grade.

June 8-12. Please visit www.activelearningcamps. com or call 888-652-4377 for registration and pricing information. In this program campers will build a game described as a “platform” game like Sonic or Mario. Campers have a blast as their characters do the impossible, overcome obstacles and opponents, and then conquer the “Big Boss.” Lessons on the basics of design history and concepts will be addressed, but the program diverges as other developmental techniques are taught in order to build this platform game.

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AUGUSTA PREP SUMMER ACADEMY CAMPS Algebra Prep. Rising 8th-9th grade. July 20-24 or July 27-31. 11-11:55 a.m. $145. Brush up on the math skills necessary for Algebra I. Math Test Strategies. Rising 5th-8th grade. July 20-24 or July 27-31. 10-10:55 a.m. $145. This camp will help you develop strategies, organization, and skills in preparing for math assessments. We will find ways to retrieve math information from your thoughts both while learning and studying the material and while taking a test or an exam.

Middle School Pre-Algebra Prep. Rising 5th-8th grade. July 20-24 or July 27-31. 9-9:55 a.m. $145. For students who want to be well prepared in their math skills for entrance into middle school 7th grade PreAlgebra.

Tackling Math Word Problems. Rising 7th-9th grade. July 20-24 or July 27-31. Noon-1 p.m. $145. Come discover the mysteries of solving math word problems in all their glory! The camp is designed for students entering Pre-Algebra, Algebra or Geometry.

English Grammar Review. Rising 6th-8th grade.

July 27-31. 10-11:45 a.m. $150. Strengthen your grammar and writing skills before the beginning of the school year.

Organizational Skills. Rising 5th-12th grade. July 20-23 or July 27-30. 8-8:55 a.m. $110. “Organization is a matter of routine. Have a place for everything and routinely put everything in its place!” You ask, if it is so easy, why am I not organized? If you want to know why, join our Organizational Skills camp!

Study Skills. Rising 5th-12th grade. July 20-23 or July 27-July 30. 8-8:55 a.m. $110. Topics covered include: learning style strategies, communication strategies, reading comprehension strategies, and much more!

Jump Start. Rising Pre-School-K. July 27-31. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. $200. Get a jump start on the upcoming school year and brush up on readiness skills for starting the next grade.

AUGUSTA PREP SPORTS CAMPS All Sports. Rising 1st-7th grade. June 8-12 or July

Cool Camps 20-24. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Friday, 9 a.m.-noon. $160. Includes activities such as basketball, soccer, volleyball, flag football, baseball/softball, floor hockey, scooter hockey, kickball, catch-me-in, ultimate frisbee and many more recreational games.

Football Cavalier Camp. Rising 1st-5th grade.

July 7-9. Tuesday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. $140 if register by May 30; $160 after May 30. Designed to give players a head start on the 2015 football season.

5th graders may register for Cavalier Pride Camp depending on skill level.

Football Cavalier Pride Camp. Rising 5th-12th grade. July 7-9. Tuesday-Thursday: 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. $140 if register by May 30; $160 after May 30. Designed to give players a head start on the 2015 football season. 5th graders may register for Cavalier Camp depending on skill level.

Volleyball “All-Skills� Camp. June 1-4 or July 2730. Rising 5th-8th grade, 9 a.m.-noon. Rising 9th12th grade, 1-4 p.m. $130. Price includes a t-shirt.

Girls learn the fundamental skills of volleyball in a competitive and fun environment.

Challenger Sports: British Soccer Camp. Rising Pre-School-11th grade. June 1-5 or June 15-19.

Please visit www.challengersports.com for registration and pricing information. British Soccer Camps provide young players with the rare opportunity to receive high-level soccer coaching from a team of international experts right in the heart of their own community.

Challenger Sports: TetraBrazil Soccer Academy. Rising 1st-11th grade. July 20-24. Please visit www.challengersports.com for registration and pricing information. Camps provide American players with the opportunity to experience first-hand the kind of soccer training that has made Brazil the most successful soccer nation in the world.

AUGUSTA RECREATION, PARKS AND FACILITIES DEPARTMENT www.augustaga.gov.

706-796-5025. jdsmith@augustaga.gov or nlamb@augustaga.gov.

Day Camps. Ages 4-12. Eight weekly sessions: June 1-July 31. No camp June 29-July 3. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $50 per week. Games, sports, arts and crafts, field trips and swimming. Before- and after-care available at selected locations. Camps are held at seven recreation and parks

locations in Augusta, Blythe and McBean. Please call for specific details. Registration starts April 1.

AUGUSTA ROWING CLUB The Boathouse, 101 Riverfront Dr. www.augustarowingclub.org.

706-432-0022. augustarows@gmail.com.

Rowing Camp. June 22-26 and July 6-10. Call or check website for details.

AUGUSTA SAILING CLUB www.augustasailingclub.org.

Sailing Club Camp. Check website for details.

AUGUSTA WEST DANCE 262 Furys Ferry Rd. www.augustawestdance.com.

706-860-0998. augustawest@ymail.com.

Call or check the website for details.

BEULAH GROVE COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER Beulah Grove Baptist Church Building of Opportunities, 1434 Poplar St. Jean Callaway, 706-722-4999.

Summer Explosion Day Camps. Call or check the website for details.

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF AUGUSTA www.bgcaugusta.org.

706-504-4071.

Day Camp. Ages 6-14. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., extended hours 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. $350. $300 if register by May 3. Multiple locations throughout Augusta. Theme-oriented summer camp with a funfilled environment. Field trip, breakfast and lunch included.

BRICKS 4 KIDZ www.Bricks4kidz.com/augusta. jgriffin@bricks4kidz.com.

Jeremiah Griffin, 706-513-5789.

One week Camps. Ages 4-14 (varies by camp).

May 26-Aug. 7. Half day, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.; Full day, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Extended day (as early as 7:30am to as late as 6pm) offered. $110-$155, half day; $140-195, full day. Cost varies by theme. Snacks and drinks are provided. Campers bring their own lunch. Each camper will receive a mini-figure, mini-model and t-shirt at the end of camp (plus additional items for some themes). Themes (in order): Bricks 4 God,

www.augustafamily.com

Clash of Brick Clans, Bricks and Robotics!, Minecraft, Classic Arcade Brick Adventures, Angry Birds, Pokemon Brick Monsters, Movie Making, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Comic Creator/Super Hero Academy and A Pirates Quest!

CAMP GRAVATT Gravatt Camp and Conference Center, Aiken. www.campgravatt.org.

Scott McNeely, 803-648-1817.

Junior High Camp. Rising 7th-9th grade. June 8-17 and July 6-15. $710.

Elementary Camp. Rising 1st-6th grade. June 1925, June27-July 3, and July 21-27. $490.

All ages. July 29-August 3. $490.

Family Camp. May 22-24, July 17-19. Parents and children. $190 for two family members. $70 each additional member.

COLUMBIA COUNTY BALLET 639 Furys Ferry Rd. www.columbiacountyballet.com.

706-860-1852.

Courtney@columbiacountyballet.com.

Princess Dance Camps. Ages 3-7. Weeks offered in June & July. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-noon. First camp $110, second camp $100. Call for more Information.

Summer Intensive. Classical ballet and Pointe, ballet for boys only, partnering, hip hop and modern technique. Call or visit the website for more information.

COLUMBIA RIVERBANKS ZOO & GARDEN 500 Wildlife Pkwy., Columbia, S.C. www.riverbanks.org.

803-802-6840.

Sprout Camp. Ages 3-4 (with an adult). June 8-August 14. Tuesday-Thursday, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $84 members; $114 non-members. Discover the wonders of the Garden as we play games, make crafts and go on garden adventures. We will explore how plants, bugs and animals all need each other as we look at food growing, hunt for bugs, and focus on animals in our backyard. u

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Cool Camps KinderCamp. Ages 4-5. June 8-August 14. Half day: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-noon, $120 members; $190 non-members. Full day: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., $185 members; $255 non-members. Weekly themes. Wild Seasons (Weeks: 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9) and Sense-able Animals (Weeks: 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10).

Wild Weeks. Ages 6-12. June 8-August 14. 9 a.m.3 p.m. $185 members; $255 non-members. Zooper Heroes, ages 6 to 7. Riverbanks Rangers, ages 8 to 9.

Inquiring minds, ages 10 to 12. Weekly themes.

DELIGHTFUL BITES CAKERY 3801 Washington Rd. 706-294-5067. delightfulbitescakery@gmail.com Cooking Camps. Does your child enjoy spending time with you in the kitchen, love to bake and decorate or dreams of becoming a professional chef one day? Then this is the ultimate summer activity for them. Under professional supervision, campers will explore the culinary arts, learn how to prepare ageappropriate snacks and meals, gain nutrition education, learn basic measuring, table setting, etiquette lessons and have tons of fun. The week-long sessions will also enjoy preparing a luncheon for campers’ parents on the final day of camp, showing off all that they’ve learned that week.

Camp dates will be listed soon at www.facebook. com/delightfulbites. Camp space is limited and will fill up. Register soon to reserve your space. Registration fees may be broken down into two payments.

Week Camp. Week-long sessions will run from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and will include a custom cookbook with all of the week’s recipes, snacks, adult supervision so that you can enjoy some free time, handson time in the kitchen every day, new learned skills that will last a lifetime, treats made daily and brought home to enjoy with the family, a certificate of completion and a luncheon for parents and campers on the last day of camp. Cost: $150 Day Camp. Runs from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Cost: $40. These special, one-day, themed workshops will have your kids begging to come back for more. Kids will participate in various cooking and decorating activities and take all of their creations home.

Mini Camp. Specifically designed for the smallest cooks and is an abbreviated, one-day camp from 10:30 a.m.-noon. Cost: $30. Mini campers will enjoy making age appropriate snacks and decorating yum-

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my sweets. They’ll will bring home all treats made.

EPISCOPAL DAY SCHOOL 2248 Walton Way. www.edsaugusta.com Erin Price or Jaye Cohen, 706-733-1192. camp@edsaugusta.com The Wonderful World of Eric Carle. Rising PKK. June 1-5. $130. Campers will explore works from Eric Carle’s children classics. Kids are sure to have fun as they create art projects in the style of Eric Carle and participate in fun activities and games.

Soccer Camp. Rising 4th-8th. June 1-5. $130. Get ready to get your kicks! Augusta Arsenal and EDS Head Girls’ Coach, Jonathan Shackelford, along with his fell coaches (all of whom are former high school and collegiate players), will increase your child’s all around knowledge of soccer. Each camper will learn dribbling techniques, proper form to receive and pass a ball, different ways to shoot a ball, how to take on defenders, and proper ways to defend in 1v1, 2v2, and 3v3.

Kids in the Kitchen. Rising 2nd-3rd. June 15-19. $130. Campers will learn basic cooking techniques and skills. Each day, campers will cook a new dish themselves and create a recipe book.

Our Feathered Friends. Risking PK. June 15-19. $130. Did you know that most birds can fly 20-30 mph? Or that penguins have feathers and wings but can’t fly? Come and join the fun and explore the wonderful world of “Our Feathered Friends” through stories, songs, art projects, and even food. It promises to be a “chirping” good time!

Garret Siler Basketball Camp. Ages 8-16. June 1519. $180. Taught by former NBA player and Augusta native, Garret Siler, and the current GRU Jaguars Assistant Men’s Basketball coach, Jamie Quarles.

Molly Manners Kool to Be Kind. Rising 1st-5th.

June 15-19. $150. Molly Manners provides a fun, interactive program that empowers children to become confident, considerate, and respectful of themselves and others. This camp will focus on impeccable introductions, good table manners, setting the table, helping at home, thank you notes, playdate, birthday party, and sleep over manners.

Field Games. Rising 2nd-5th. June 22-26. $130.

www.augustafamily.com

Come out and play some of your favorite field games: kickball, capture the flag, Frisbee throw, water balloon toss and many more.

Kids in the Kitchen. Rising K-1st. June 22-26. $130. Come cook with EDS’s own Shannon Schoenberger. Emphasis on the food groups through cooking, measuring, and baking each day.

Molly Manners Polite Princesses & Pirates.

Ages 3-6. June 22-26 and July 6-10. $150. Molly Manners provides a fun, interactive program that empowers children to become confident, considerate, and respectful of themselves and others. This camp will focus on good table manners, friendly introductions, setting the table, play date and birthday party manners, polite pals. Friday will be a dress up day for the campers to wear their best princess or pirate outfit to practice all of the good manners they learned during the week.

Fizz, Bang, Pop! Grades 1st-3rd, July 6-10; Grades 4th-6th, July 13-17. $130. Solids, liquids, gases–oh my! Come explore with EDS science teacher, Ms. Ingrid McNeil. Chemistry like never before with handson, exciting experiments, and activities designed to satisfy both blooming and budding scientists.

Amazing Animals. Rising 1st-2nd. July 13-17. $130.

Campers will learn fun and interesting facts about reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals. Fun activities and crafts will ensure that campers will have a ball while learning about snakes, alligators, owls, beavers, and more.

Wonders of Nature. Rising PK. July 13-17. $130.

Campers will explore nature through hands-on discovery, experiments, art, nature walks, and gardening.

GRU Jaguar Volleyball Camp. Rising 4th-9th.

July 13-17. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. $95. Join the GRU Jaguar Volleyball coaches as they host a volleyball camp for rising 4th-9th grade students. The camp is geared toward individual skills training and will focus on serving, passing, setting, attacking, blocking, and individual defense. Competition will be held daily as campers will be placed into groups of similar ability to showcase their skills.

Under the Sea. Rising K-1st. July 20-24. $130.

Campers will learn fun and interesting facts about a variety of ocean creatures, from sea turtles to starfish.

Cool Camps Fun activities and crafts will ensure that your camper has a “whale” of a time exploring under the sea.

Arts Around the World. Rising 2nd-5th. July 20-24. $130. Join us to discover traditional crafts that are created around the world. “Visit” a different country and become familiar with its history through books, art projects, and music. Don’t have a passport…no worries!

Swingin’ Safari. Rising young 3-PK. July 20- 24. $130. Swing into our Safari Summer Camp! Students will get “wild” about learning through hands on art activities, memorizing and singing songs, finger plays and physical activity including Safari Yoga.

We will learn about exotic Safari and Jungle animals through books and technology. Our goal is to help develop social and academic skills through fun play based activities.

Soccer Camp. Rising K-3rd. July 27-31. $130. Get ready to get your kicks! Augusta Arsenal and EDS Head Girls’ Coach, Jonathan Shackelford, along with his fell coaches (all of whom are former high school and collegiate players), will increase your child’s all around knowledge of soccer. Each camper will learn dribbling techniques, proper form to receive and pass a ball, different ways to shoot a ball, how to take on defenders, and proper ways to defend in 1v1, 2v2, and 3v3.

FAMILY MUSIC OF AUGUSTA www.familymusicofaugusta.com.

Kathleen Haley, 706-955-7819. familymusicofaugusta@comcast.net.

See website for details and new course offerings. Ask about sibling discounts. Also available: Beginning keyboard and flute lessons.

Twist and Turn. Ages 1-5. July 7-30. Tuesday and Thursday, except July 14. 10 a.m. North Augusta.

Nursery rhymes come to life for children and their parents. Lots of movement for the toddlers while challenging the 3-and-ups with language development.

Music Makers at the Seashore. Ages 4 ½-7. July 7-30. Tuesday and Thursday, except July 14. 11 a.m.

North Augusta. Singing, playing instruments in ensemble, early music-reading, lots of movement, storytelling, listening, dancing and art activities.

Piano Review. Current students or those with some

playing experience. Martinez. Review of keyboard skills, plus theory games, drumming, dancing, etc.

Every other week through summer. Each class day has a theme-sign up for those you can attend.

Introduction to Piano. Beginners, age 6 and up.

June 15-19, Augusta; July 20-24, Martinez. 1-2 p.m.

Uses singing and movement as well as keyboard activities to help children learn to play the piano.

Strongly recommended for new students planning to enroll in Keyboard I in the fall.

Music Makers at the Seashore Morning Camp.

Ages 4 1/2-7. June 15-19. 9:30 a.m.-noon. Augusta.

We meet many animals of the seashore. Activities include singing, playing instruments in ensemble, early music-reading, lots of movement, storytelling, listening, dancing, and art activities.

Introduction to Percussion. Rising 5th-7th grade.

July 20-24. 2-3 p.m. Martinez. Emphasis is on snare drum: reading rhythms, proper stick technique, and steady beat. Other instruments of the percussion family are introduced.

THE FAMILY Y www.thefamilyy.org.

706-922-9622.

Call each branch or check the Family Y website for details at www.thefamilyy.org.

Financial assistance is available for all Family Y programs.

DAY CAMPS All traditional day camps include arts and crafts, games and sports, swimming, devotions and character development activities. Specialized day camps include detailed descriptions of activities.

Breakout sessions differ by location. Unless otherwise noted, all Family Y camps are $75 per week for members, $95 per week for non-members.

Campers at all camps should bring backpack, water bottle, sack lunch, snack and spray-on Sunscreen. Unless otherwise specified, camp activities are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. with early drop-off beginning at 7 a.m. and late pick-up until 6 p.m. provided at no additional charge.

Camp Aiken. Ages 5-12. Weekly sessions, June 8-August 14. $80 per week/members, $110 per week/ non-members. Aiken County Family YMCA, 621 Trolley Line Rd., Graniteville. 803-349-8080.

www.augustafamily.com

Camp Puzzle Palooza at Aiken County Family Y. Specialized camp for children with special needs ages 5-12 years. Weekly sessions, June 8-August 14. $80 per week/members, $110 per week/non-members. Child Assessments will be completed prior to registration. Space is limited. Aiken County Family YMCA, 621 Trolley Line Rd., Graniteville. 803-3498080.

Camp Augusta South. Ages 5-14. Weekly sessions, May 26-August 7. Transportation to and from Southside Tubman Branch and Ridgestone Academy is provided each day for certain age groups. Augusta South Family YMCA, 2215 Tobacco Rd. 706-9229650.

Family Y Child Development Center. Ages 4 years. Weekly sessions, May 26-August 7. Breakfast, lunch and snack provided. Campers participate in education enrichment activities that appeal to children in Pre-K. 1425 Walton Way, Augusta. Call the CDC at 706-922-9670.

Camp Marshall. Ages 5-12. Weekly sessions, May 26-August 4. Patriot’s Park, 5445 Columbia Rd. For more information. 706-364-3269.

Marshall Teen Leadership Academy (ages 13-15). A focus on character values such as caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and faith. Fosters independence, accountability and leadership and provides activities to instill healthy habits. Weekly sessions, May 26-August 4. Patriot’s Park, 5445 Columbia Rd. 706-364-3269.

Camp North Augusta. Traditional Camp for ages 5-12. Weekly sessions, June 8-August 14. Campers will go to the Aiken County YMCA pool and water park on Fridays. Mossy Creek Elementary School, 421 W. Five Notch Rd., N. Augusta. 803-278-0882.

North Augusta Family Y Specialty Camps. Ages 5-12. Sessions vary, June 8-August 14. Call for more details and schedules of breakout sessions. Mossy Creek Elementary School, 421 W. Five Notch Rd., N. Augusta. 803-278-0882.

Camp Steiner Branch. Ages 5-12. Weekly sessions, May 26-August 4. Grovetown Elementary School, 300 Ford Ave. 706-922-6711.

Steiner Branch Teen Leadership Academy. Ages 13-15. Weekly sessions, May 26-August 4.A focus

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Cool Camps on character values such as caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and faith. Fosters independence, accountability and leadership and provides activities to instill healthy habits. Grovetown Elementary School, 300 Ford Ave. 706-922-6711.

Camp Y130 in Thomson. Ages 5-12. Weekly sessions, June 1-August 7. Norris Elementary School, Thomson. 706-595-5615.

Y130 Center Specialty Camps in Thomson.

Gymnastics Camp: Ages 5-12. Cheer Camp: Ages 5-12. Y130 Program Center. 706-595-5615.

WILSON FAMILY YMCA CAMPS All campers should be dropped-off and picked-up at Sue Reynolds Elementary School, 3840 Wrightsboro Rd. Call the Wilson Family YMCA at 706922-9624 or email Kelsey at kfolks@thefamilyy. org. Campers bring a backpack, sack lunch, water bottle, snack and spray-on sunscreen. Weekly sessions: May 26-August 7. $110 week/members; $150 week/non-members.

Junior Traditional Camp. Ages 5 & 6. Swimming, sports, arts and crafts, games, team building, huddle time and more. Each group will participate in Wacky Wednesdays where they will dress up according to the theme of the week.

Traditional Camp. Ages 7-12. Swimming, sports, arts and crafts, games, team building, huddle time and more. Each group will participate in our Wacky Wednesdays where they will dress up according to the theme of the week.

Wilson Family YMCA Specialty Camps: Aqua Fun. Ages 7-12. Campers will have fun in the water park and use their imaginations to create water projects of their own! They will also participate in water safety class and improve their swimming techniques!

Please bring swimsuits and towels, this camp will be in the water daily.

Creative Arts Camp. Ages 7-12. Campers will participate in arts and crafts, drama, journalism and more. They will enjoy the opportunity to create using their imagination!

Let’s Move! Ages 7-12. Campers will express themselves Zumba, dance and more while learning the importance of having fun while learning to be fit!

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Sports Academy. Ages 7-12. Introduces campers to a variety of age-appropriate sports and games. Learn new skills in a fun-filled environment each week.

Summer Leadership Academy. Ages 13-15. Teens will enjoy a summer of learning and expression through community service projects, team building and leadership development.

Daily activities include swimming, hiking, games, sports and arts and crafts. The program includes one hour of daily asthma education to help children recognize their asthma symptoms. Lunch and snacks are provided. Transportation from the GRU campus and south Richmond County will be provided on a space-available basis.

GEORGIA REGENTS UNIVERSITY MUL.I.T. Program. Ages 16 & 17. The Leaders in SIC CONSERVATORY PROGRAM Training (L.I.T.) program allows youth to develop into role models and leaders. Campers will attend a training program that will train them to create and plan programs and also develop leadership skill and character development. Throughout the summer the L.I.T.s will volunteer and serve the community. *Students must APPLY via an essay on why they want to attend the L.I.T. program this summer and what they would hope to learn through the program. Applications are due by May 10, 2015. Please email kfolks@ thefamilyy.org for more details.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 3500 Walton Way Ext. www.fbcaugusta.org.

Patti Fowler, 706-731-5366.

Registration: Friday, April 3 in the Preschool Building hallway from 9-10 a.m. Camps are held May 26July 16, Tuesday and Thursday, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

No camp June 1-5.

Summer Playcation Days. Babies to age 4. $12/ day.

Climber’s Club. Rising kindergartners and 1st graders. $15/day. Reinforces academic skills to prepare children for the coming year through small and large group experiences and individualized opportunities.

THE FIRST TEE 3165 Damascus Rd. www.thefirstteeaugusta.org.

706-364-4654. jbrown@thefirstteeaugusta.org.

Please call for information on summer camp offerings.

GEORGIA REGENTS UNIVERSITY Kitty Hernlen, 706-721-3554. khernlen@gru.edu.

Augusta Area Asthma Day Camp. Ages 6-13.

July 20-24. All day. Free. Limited to 60 campers.

Hosted at Camp Tanglewood in Columbia County.

www.augustafamily.com

Tayler Kitlan, 706-731-7971. consprog@gru.edu. www.gru.edu/conservatory.

All camps are held in the Fine Arts Center and Maxwell Performing Arts Center on the GRU-Summerville campus. Discounts available for Choir, Orchestra and Band Camps: $25 for All-District/All-Region students OR $50 for All-State students.

My First Piano Adventure (Mini Music Camp).

Rising 1st-2nd grade. June 1-5. 9-10:30 a.m. $119.

Snack provided. Online registration available. Limit of eight students.

Chamber Music Institute. June 1-5. 1-5 p.m.

Monday-Thursday; 1-8 p.m. Friday. $70. The Chamber Music Institute is a week of half-day rehearsal sessions, coached by chamber music experts. The Chamber Music Institute is open to advanced string, piano, and select wind instrument players. Participation is limited and audition-based. Auditions require the performance of a prepared solo work and will be held April 26, 2015 from 1-5 p.m. Those selected to participate will perform two concerts, one Thursday evening at Brandon Wilde, the other Friday evening in the Maxwell Performing Arts Theatre on GRU’s Summerville Campus. No online registration for this camp.

Choir Camp. June 8-12. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. MondayThursday; 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday. $180 by May 30, $200 late tuition. Open to rising middle and high school students. Two concert choirs, musical theater, and class voice instruction. Electives in guitar, piano, and Georgia All-State audition preparation.

Orchestra Camp. June 15-19. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday. $180 by June 6, $200 late tuition. Open to rising middle and high school string players with at least a full year of orchestra experience or private lessons. Two orchestras, chamber music ensembles, Celtic music and other electives.

Cool Camps Band Camp. June 22-26. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. MondayThursday; 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday. $180 by June 13, $200 late tuition. Open to rising middle and high school students with at least a full year of school band experience or private lessons. Two concert bands, jazz band, and sectional ensembles. Electives in improvisation, African drumming, guitar and more.

technology, campers will learn about traditional and modern ways to tell a story.

GEORGIA REGENTS UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENT OF CONTINUING EDUCATION

STEM-U for Rising 7th, 8th and 9th Graders.

STEM-U at KU blends hands-on activities with a focus on career explorations, interactions with GRU faculty, and introduction to the labs and facilities of Augusta’s research university. The middle school camps include field trips in the community, visits to Health Science campus and hands-on presentations

by GRU faculty. Half-day 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., $100.

Full day 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., $170. Extended day 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m., $185.

www.gru.edu.

706-721-2329. amy.stephenson@ccboe.net.

GRU Kids University K-7. Each morning session ALL age groups will participate in lessons that integrate art, music, Lego Bricks, science and social studies. Half-day 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., $100. Full day 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., $170. Extended day 7:30 a.m.6 p.m., $185.

All for One and One for All. June 1-5. How do games, inventions and manners relate? Campers will be engaged with hands-on multi-sensory activities and mind challenging multi-cultural games. Additional activities will focus on working together to create inventions that will benefit others.

Rock, Paper, Scissors. June 8-12. Is it really just a game of chance? The game of “rock, paper, scissors” will lead to a week of exploration with probability and game design. Activities in geology, paper art, pet rocks and even “rock ‘n roll” will encourage creativity and thinking outside the box.

Commotion in the Ocean. June 15-19. It is getting wet at KU! Campers will explore the geography of the oceans, participate in Puppet Theater as pirates, and discover the endangered creatures of the sea.

Dive in with saltwater aquariums and sea turtles.

Color My World. July 13-17. “A picture is worth a thousand words.” Explore the world of color through nature and technology. Take an in depth look at how different art mediums influence our world.

Genetics. June 1-5. Topics include: Forensics, plant and animal genetics, genetics in agriculture and careers in genetics.

GIS: Geographic Information Systems. June 8-12. Topics include: Geography, maps, geo-caching, and mapping Mars.

NASA Engineering. June 15-19. Topics include: Roto-Recovery vehicle design, physics, and engineering Robot Real-World Challenge. June 22-26. Topics include: Anatomy, biology, engineering, robotic hands.

GERTRUDE HERBERT INSTITUTE OF ART 506 Telfair St., Augusta. www.ghia.org. hwilliams@ghia.org. 706-722-5495.

Trash it? June 22-26. “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” Using the spirit of an entrepreneur, barter and trade with recycled treasures! Learn to recycle with a purpose and reuse with a plan. Activities will promote awareness for keeping our planet clean.

Morning Art Camp. Ages 5-12. Weekly sessions, June 8-July 24. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-noon. $65 per week members, $80 per week non-members.

Morning curriculum classes are meant to provide the fundamentals of art and include drawing & 2-D design, painting & mixed media, and sculpture & 3-D design.

Tell Me a Story. July 6-10. Once upon a time, KU was filled with magical ideas. Puppets, photography, cartoons, and folk tales will bring these magical ideas to life. Through art, theater and multi-media

Afternoon Art Camp. Ages 5-12. Weekly sessions, June 8-July 24. 12:45-2:45 p.m. $65 per week members, $80 per week non-members. Afternoon classes will be more thematic and build off of the funda-

www.augustafamily.com

mental classes (however students do not have to participate in morning sessions in order to take part in the afternoon sessions).

GIRL SCOUTS OF HISTORIC GEORGIA Camp Tanglewood, 4687 Columbia Rd. www.gshg.org.

912-236-1571.

Check website for camp information.

GYMNASTICS GOLD 124 Cedar Lane, Martinez. www.gymnasticsgold.com.

706-650-2111.

Camp Flip Flop. Ages 3-5. June 9-13, Disney Week.

June23-27, Beach Week. July 14-18, Outdoor Adventures. July 28 -Aug. 1, All About Sports. 9:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. $60 per week. Please bring a sack lunch.

Wear bathing suits on Tues and Thurs. Bring a towel, shoes, sunscreen and a change of clothes. Must be potty trained.

Camp Flip Flop. Ages 4-13. May 27-August 8, closed June 30-July 4. $36 per day or $125 per week. Weekly themes. Activities include gymnastics, games, crafts, movies, special guests and more. Bring sack lunch, bathing suits (Tues. and Thurs.), towel, sunscreen, shoes and a change of clothes.

Summer Gymnastics Classes. Check website for dates and times.

HAYDENS GYMNASTICS ACADEMY 4300 Evans To Locks Rd., Evans. www.haydensgym.com.

706-868-0608. haydens@haydensgym.com Camp Haydens. Ages 5 and up. One-week sessions beginning May 26-July 31. Half day: 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; Full day: 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 3 days per week: half day, $85; full day, $100. 5 days per week: half day, $135; full day, $155. Aerobic activity in the morning, an hour of gymnastics time in the morning and afternoon, a craft, and a group activity every day.

Junior Camp Haydens. Ages 2-5. Haydens is proud to offer “junior camp” for children between the ages of two and five. This camp is offered Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays in June and July. Aerobics in the morning, 45 minutes of gymnastics time in the afternoon, and a craft or group activity every day. u

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Cool Camps HICKORY HILL 502 Hickory Hill Drive, Hickory Hill Historic House Museum, Thomson.

706-595-7777. www.hickory-hill.org.

Ms. Franke L. Smith, fsmith@hickory-hill.org.

Dig History! Archeology Camp. Ages 11-17. June 8-12. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $60. Students learn proper archaeological techniques, work alongside professional archaeologists to excavate a real archaeological site, explore historic and prehistoric cultures from around the world, and discover the artifacts that were used to build civilizations. Bring a sack lunch and water bottle each day. Snacks provided.

Eco-Adventures Camp. Ages 10-16. June 22-26. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $60. Children explore the outdoors and learn what it means to be green. Learn about organic gardening, water quality, composting, recycling, native animals, native plants and more! Bring a sack lunch and water bottle each day. Snacks provided.

History Tech Camp. Ages 11-17. July 13-17. 9 a.m.-noon. $40. Explore the history of technology and learn about the gizmos and gadgets that made the world turn during the Industrial Revolution: Steam engines, the telegraph, electric light and other technological advances.

H. ODELL WEEKS CENTER 1700 Whiskey Rd., Aiken. www.cityofaikensc.gov.

803-642-7631. bcampbell@cityofaikensc.gov.

Summer Adventures Day Camp. Ages 5-12 at the start of the session. Weekly camps June 8-August 14.

8 a.m.-3 p.m. Themed sessions with sports, swimming, games, special guests, arts, and crafts. Campers must bring a snack, drink, and bag lunch daily.

Extended camp from 3-5:30 p.m. is available for an additional fee. Register at www.cityofaikensc.gov or at the Weeks Center beginning April 1. Cost per week is $60 per child, 50 percent deposit per child is due at time of registration. Non-Resident fees may apply.

HILLTOP RIDING STABLES North Range Road, Fort Gordon. www.fortgordon.com.

706-791-4864.

Horse Camps. Ages 7-13. Weekly, 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m. $250 sponsored; $275 unsponsored. Learn horse grooming, saddling, bridling and bathing. Take part

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in arts and crafts, outdoor recreation, arena and trail riding, swimming. Children attending Youth Horse camps should bring a swimsuit (season permitting) and a change of clothes each day. Please have all children dress properly for the weather. Children should also bring a lunch/snacks packed in a cooler.

A locker will be provided for each child. All reservations for horse camp must be made in person at the Hilltop Riding Stables (HTRS) office during normal business hours.

JAMES BROWN ACADEMY OF MUSIC PUPILS www.jamesbrownfamilyfdn.org.

706-736-6216.

Out of Sight Summer Session. Grades PreK12. June 15-July 24. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Study music theory and learn how to read and compose music. Master multiple musical instruments and get experience with recording and production of music. Call for more information or see Web site.

JUMPIN BEANS MEGA ZONE 1746 Knox Ave., North Augusta, S.C. 803-279-6333. www.jumpinaugusta.net.

Mega Zone Kids. June 8-August 7. No Camp July 6-10. Ages 5-12. 9:30 a.m.- 3:30 p.m. Pack a lunch.

Will provide daily snack. Full of exercise, arts and crafts, games, movie day and water slide day on Fridays with lunch provided. Check our website for registration info and early signup savings.

KANE & CO 4321 Evans To Lock Rd., Evans. www.kanecodance.com.

706-447-9007.

Kelly@kanecodance.com.

Call or check website for details.

KINGDOM KIDS DEVELOPMENT CENTER Beulah Grove Baptist Church Building of Opportunities.

1434 Poplar Street.

Sharon Meyers, 706-724-1086.

Kid Zone. Ages 4-12. May 26-August 7. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Early drop off beginning at 6 a.m. Pick up ending at 6 p.m. A creative, fun-filled spiritual summer of activities that includes theme weeks and field trips.

Call for pricing and additional information.

www.augustafamily.com

LUCY CRAFT LANEY MUSEUM OF BLACK HISTORY 1005 Broad St. 706-724-3576.

Summer Camp 2015. Call for information.

MACH ACADEMY Fleming Tennis Center, 1850 Chester Ave. www.machacademy.com.

706-796-5046. mparks37@comcast.net.

Partial scholarships are available.

Summer Tennis/Fitness Camp. Ages 6-18. June 1-July 31, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Early drop-off at 8:30 a.m. and late pick-up at 5:30 p.m. at no additional charge. $100 per week. Provides comprehensive tennis fundamentals including drills, competitive matches, fitness, strength training & conditioning, match strategy and mental toughness. A variety of effective USTA training methods will be used to help participants achieve high performance development and winning results.

Reach for the Stars Summer Camp. Ages 4-16.

June 1-July 31. 9 a.m-5 p.m. Early drop-off at 8:30 a.m. and late pick-up at 5:30 p.m. at no additional charge. $100 per week. Camp provides academic enrichment, Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM ) sessions, career exploration, College planning, nutrition, fitness and tennis instruction. Tennis sessions will include games and drills designed to introduce tennis as a fun game for a lifetime. The USTA Quick Start Tennis format, First Serve Curriculum, ACE (Academic Creative Engagement) Curriculum and other USTA training curriculum will be used to help participants connect education to tennis.

M.A.E.S. EDUCATION CENTER 4116 Evans to Locks Road, Evans.

706-860-8585. www.maeseducationcenter.com.

SAT/ACT Boot Camps for June Test Dates.

SAT June 1-5, Critical Reading & Writing from 1-4 p.m., Math from 4-5:30 p.m. ACT June 8-12, Critical Reading & Writing from 1-4 p.m., Math & Science from 4-5:30 p.m.

Write On! Middle School Reading Comprehension and Writing. June 15-18, 12:30-3:30 p.m.

Ideaventions速Ages 4-6. Creative introduction to STEM for early learners. June 15-19, 9-11 a.m.

Cool Camps 2 + 2 = 4. Ages 6-10. Fun with Math concepts. June 15-19, 9-11 a.m.

struction provided by Perfect Storm Art Enrichment Center.

mtwdirector@gmail.com Download registration forms online.

That Adds Up! Middle School Math Enrichment.

June 22-25, 9-11 a.m.

MAKE Camp. Ages 12-16. June 15–19. 9 a.m.–noon and 1-4 p.m. $140 members/$160 non-members each for a.m. and p.m. classes. $250 members and $300 non-members. Bring a sack lunch. Make and create something everyday at theClubhou.se. Projects vary daily. Learn fun STEAM projects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) programming, design, gaming, robots, etc. Learn how to use a 3D Printer, CNC Machine. No experience required.

Students will take home all projects at the end of the week. MAKE reception, Friday, June 19 at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Instruction provided by members of theClubhou.se, an innovation development organization.

One Week Camp Sessions. Ages 6-10. June 29July 3 and July 27-31. 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $100. Under the Sea and Aladdin Land. Acting, theatre games, improv and voice.

SAT/ACT–Get Prepped! SAT/ACT Math, July 1317, 3-4:30 p.m. SAT/ACT Critical Reading & Writing, July 20-24, 1-4 p.m.

Nailing Your College Essay! July 20-23, 2-4 p.m. Geared toward rising seniors, the focus is on identifying essay topics and developing personal statements for college applications and scholarships.

Good, Better, Best! High school students. July 13-17, 1-3 p.m. This course will emphasize strategies and skills for becoming a more efficient and effective reader and writer as students prepare for college.

Study Buddy. Middle school students. July 27-30, 10 a.m.-noon. Students will learn study techniques and organizational strategies to manage their time, studies, and extracurricular activities.

Private Tutoring. Grades 1-12. All subjects. By appointment.

MAKE MONTH AT THE GREATER AUGUSTA INNOVATION ACADEMY 540 Telfair St. 706-877-8707.

Email: learn@theClubhou.se Registration at: http://theclubhou.se/ Manga, Anime and Drawing. Ages 10–18. June 18-12, 9 a.m.–noon. $100 members/$120 non-members. Basic Manga and anime-style art skills. No previous drawing experience is needed for this class. Art reception, Friday June 19 at 11:15 a.m. Supervised lunch break noon–1 p.m. $50. Bring a sack lunch.

Instruction provided by Perfect Storm Art Enrichment Center.

Creative Storylines. Ages 10–18. June 8-12 1-4 p.m. $100 members/$120 non-members. This class will help build strong standards in both drawing skills and techniques, continuing the individual’s knowledge of character design, and storytelling with story boards and other sequential art processes. Art reception, Friday June 19 at 3:15 p.m. Supervised lunch break noon-1 p.m. $50. Bring a sack lunch. In-

*RC Flight Simulator Training. Ages 10–18.

June 22–26. 9 a.m.–noon. $120 members/$140 nonmembers. Supervised lunch break noon–1 p.m. $50.

Bring a sack lunch. *Class is required for those students who wish to attend Drone Camp. Learn Hover safety, Proper aircraft control, FAA/AMA Flight rules and standards, Proper soldering techniques, Aircraft weight distribution (Proper CG), Pre-Flight Checks, Orientation Training, Speed versus Endurance. Taught by Augusta’s own Augusta RC Academy (ARC) in partnership with theClubhou.se.

Drone Camp*. Ages 1–18. June 22–26. 1–4 p.m. $150 members/$170 non-members. Material supply provided after registration. (Approx. $200).

Supervised lunch break noon– 1 p.m. $50. Bring a sack lunch. *Pre-requisite required attendance at RC Flight Simulator Training. Drone U is the first ever class at theClubhou.se featured to teach kids the amazing applications of drone technology right here in the Augusta area! From racing, to aerial video to crop inspection, the uses are endless. And, with multiple groups daily learning to build drones as well as how fly them, Drone U is a unique, handson approach to learning the science and engineering behind flight and its applications in a constructive, rewarding week long experience! The students will design and build a drone to keep at the end of the week. Taught by Augusta’s own Augusta RC Academy (ARC) in partnership with theClubhou.se.

MUSICAL THEATRE WORKSHOP 3817 Martinez Blvd., Martinez. www.onwiththeshow.biz.

Mickey Lubeck, 706-231-1759.

www.augustafamily.com

4-Day Camp. Ages 6-10. May 26-29. 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $80. Acting, theatre games, improv and voice.

Two Week Camp Sessions. Ages 8-15. June 8-19 and July 13-24. 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. $250. Audition prep and Jungle Book production. Musical theatre production, acting, improv and voice.

Afternoon Art/Dance/Stage Combat/Show Choir Mini Camps. TBA. Call for pricing and details.

MY BEST FRIEND’S SEWING ROOM 3850 Washington Rd., Suite 4C. (La Petite Plaza).

706-993-8819. mybfsewingroom@yahoo.com. www.facebook.com/mybestfriendssewingroom.

Kids will have “sew” much fun this summer, building their confidence while learning how to sew in a safe environment. Open to ages 9 and up. Beginners welcome. Sewing machines and supplies are provided. Bring a sack lunch. The cost is $225 per week, with a $25 discount if you register by May 22. Sewing themes vary each week.

Session 1: June 1-5, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Beach—shorts, tote, flip flop flowers, etc.

Session 2: June 8-12, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Sleepover— pillow case, lounge pants, stuffie, etc.

Session 3: June 15-19, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Fashion— skirt, ruffled t-shirt, purse, etc.

Session 4: June 22-26, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Minecraft Inspired—pillow, tote, quilting, etc.

Session 5: June 29-July 3, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. American Girl—projects for you and your doll.

NEWMAN TENNIS CENTER 3103 Wrightsboro Rd. 706-821-1600. http://www.augustaga.gov/771/Newman-TennisCenter. kard@augustaga.gov. u

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Cool Camps Tennis and Swim Summer Camp. Ages 7-17. June 1-August 14. No classes 4th of July week. 9:15 a.m.-4 p.m., $200 per week; 9:15 a.m.-noon, $100 per week.

10 percent discount for multiple weeks or siblings.

All campers receive camp T-shirt.

Quick-Start Summer Camp. Ages 4-6. June 1-Augusta 14. Tuesday-Friday. 8:30-9:15 a.m. $50 per week.

NEXT GENERATION LEARNING CENTER 325 Old Wrightsboro Rd., Grovetown.

706-868-9966.

Summer Camps available for age 4 to 12 years of age.

Water play, reading programs, field trips, dramatic play, art projects and more. School-age children also team with teachers to research different activities and planning for a group activity. Call for complete details.

GRADE POWER LEARNING 4272 Washington Rd., Suite 2, Evans. www.gradepowerlearning.com. evansga@gradepowerlearning.com.

706-650-2225.

Summer Brain Camp. All ages, all grades. June 1July 31. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday. 10 a.m.-noon or 1-3 p.m. Programs include early reading, catch up or get ahead programs, elementary math review, intro to high school math, 20-hour study skills programs, SAT and ACT prep programs.

SAT Prep. Thursday and Friday. 10 a.m.-noon. Beneficial for many students who need to improve their college entrance exam scores.

PETERSBURG RACQUET CLUB 421 The Pass, Martinez. www.prctennis.com 706-860-9288.

bers $110 per week, $26 per day. Kids learn to play tennis in a team environment. Emphasis is placed on simplifying the game and instruction. Camp includes instruction, play and a swim break.

Performance Program. Ages 9-18. Eight one-week sessions June 1-July 31. No camp June 29-July 3. 9 a.m.-noon. Non-members $140 per week or $32 per day. Members $110 per week, $26 per day. For kids who are actively playing tournaments, on school teams and Junior Team Tennis. Camp includes instruction, play and a swim break.

PHINIZY CENTER FOR WATER SCIENCES Phinizy Swamp Nature Park 1858 Lock & Dam Rd, Augusta phinizycenter.org/summer-camp.

706-796-7707.

Swamp Explorers Summer Camp at Phinizy Swamp Nature Park. Registration Deadline: May 15, 2015. Ages 5-10 (rising 1st-5th graders). June 1-5, June 8-12, June 15-19, June 22-26, Monday– Friday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. with option for early drop off/ late pick-up. $160/week for Phinizy members, $175/ week nonmembers, $25 add-on for early drop off/ late pick-up. A fun-filled week of outdoor exploration, arts and crafts, nature hikes and hands-on learning.

PORTMAN’S MUSIC ACADEMY 4020 Washington Rd., Martinez. mviller@portmansmusic.com.

706-738-1651.

Music Camp. Rising K-2nd grade, 9:30 a.m.-noon.

Rising 3rd-5th grade, 12:30-3 p.m. June 22-26. $160 (includes t-shirt). Spend a week exploring instrumental music through rhythm, melody, harmony, tone color and form.

Pee Wees. Ages 4-5. Eight one-week sessions June 1-July 31. No camp June 29-July 3. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 8:15-9 a.m. Non-members $36 per week or $15 per day. Members $28 per week or $12 per day. Learn the basics of tennis in a fun atmosphere.

Guitar Camp. Rising 4th-6th grade, June 1-5, July 6-10. Rising 7th-9th grade, June 8-12, July 13-17.

9:30 a.m.-noon. $160 (includes t-shirt). Introduction to the most popular instrument in North America.

Students will learn basic chording, tuning, changing strings and an introduction to reading music and lead playing.

Play Program. Ages 6-18. Eight one-week sessions June 1-July 31. No camp June 29-July 3. 9 a.m.-noon.

Non-members $140 per week or $32 per day. Mem-

Rock Camp. Ages 12-18. June 15-20. 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. $275 (includes lunch and t-shirt). For students who want to play in a rock band! Meet other play-

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ers just like you while taking your playing to another level. Players must have at least one year musical experience.

Band Camp. Rising 7th and 8th grade, July 20-24.

9:30 a.m.–noon. $160 (includes t-shirt). Students will get a head start preparing for District Honor Band auditions by reviewing scales, sight-reading and etudes.

ROBERT SAPP BASEBALL CAMPS Sweetwater Park, Thomson. www.robertsappbaseballcamp.com. rsbbcamp@charter.net.

Baseball Camp. Ages 7-14. June 22-26. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $130. Team rates available. Teaching the fundamentals correctly and emphasizing that baseball should be fun. Also emphasizes improving work habits, discipline, sportsmanship and social skills.

Join Robert Sapp and his staff for their 35th year.

Softball Camp. Girls ages 7-14. June 22-26. 9 a.m.3 p.m. $130. Team rates available. Top-notch instruction in all aspects of the game. Same format as their traditional baseball camp.

RUTH PATRICK SCIENCE EDUCATION CENTER 471 University Parkway, Aiken. www.campinvention.org.

John Hutchens, 800-968-4332 or johnh@usca.edu.

Camp Invention. Rising 1st-6th graders. June 1519. 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. $220. Camp Invention is where BIG ideas become the next BIG thing! Local educators lead a week of hands-on activities created especially for elementary school children. Boys and girls spend time pushing the limits during high-energy games, working with teammates to construct a freestyle racing cart and taking apart electronics to assemble something new. Lessons explore connections between science, technology, engineering and innovation. Don’t miss out on brand new challenges.

THE SALVATION ARMY KROC CENTER 1833 Broad St., Augusta. www.krocaugusta.org.

706-922-1533.

Allyson_Campbell@uss.salvationarmy.org.

Camp Kroc Summer Day Camp. Ages 5-12. May 26-August 14 (no camp Memorial Day or July 3). 9

Cool Camps a.m.-3 p.m. Week rate: $150 non-member/$125 members; Day rate: $30 non-members/$25 members. Additional $5 per day for extended care. Camp Kroc is an ACA accredited day camp program. Campers enjoy swimming, arts and crafts, group games, sports, bible lessons and other fun activities. Reserve your camper’s spot with $30 deposit. Military discounts available with military ID. Space limited. Register early. Lunch included in the cost of camp.

Camp Kroc Teen. Ages 13-15. June 8-12, June 15-19, June 22-26, July 13-17, July 20-24, July 27-31. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $80 per week. Additional $5 per day for extended care. With six weeks and three themes, Camp Kroc Teens can expand their horizons with camps that focus on sports and teamwork, fitness and healthy living, and art and creativity. Pool time and lunch are included in weekly camp tuition. Reserve your camper’s spot with $30 deposit. Military discounts available with military ID. Lunch is included in the cost of camp. Space is limited. Register early.

Mad About Manga. Ages 8-14. July 20-24. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Half day, $150; Full day, $175 (lunch and swimming included). Additional $5 per day for extended care. Learn about the Manga art form and the culture where it originates. Hone your drawing skills by creating your own Manga characters! You may reserve your camper’s spot with $30 deposit. Military discounts available with military ID. Space is limited.

Register early.

Hot on the Trail of Art. Ages 5-12. June 15-19, June 22-26, July 6-10, July 13-17. Half day, 9 a.m.12:30 p.m., $150; Full day, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., $175 (lunch and swimming included). Additional $5 per day for extended care. Come join us as we follow the clues from A to Z and discover the hidden mysteries of art. Each week our alphabet clues will reveal the Who, What, When, Where, and Why of art. Reserve your camper’s spot with $30 deposit.

Military discounts available with military ID. Space is limited. Register early.

Jamie Garvey, 706-724-9641. jcgarvey@stjohnaugusta.org St John Choir Camp. Rising 2nd-8th graders. July 6-12. With guest directors Tom Long and Jocelyn Sluka of Friends of the Groom (Cincinnati). Instruction in singing, movement and drama. Culminating in Sunday service.

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AUGUSTA Sue Alexanderson, 706-738-7527.

Symphony Orchestra Augusta, 706-826-4705. walexanderson@comcast.net.

Collage: Creative Arts Camp. Rising K-5. May 26-29, Woodlawn UMC, 4 days, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. June 1-June 5, Woodlawn UMC, 5 days, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

June 8-June 12, Vineyard Church of Augusta, 5 days, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. $125. Sponsored by Friends of the Symphony Orchestra Augusta. Hands-on activities with strings, percussion, woodwinds, brass, art, movement, drama, chorus, puppetry, weaving, storytelling and creative writing.

UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA CENTER FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION http://www.georgiacenter.uga.edu/youth/summeracademy.

706-542-3537 or 1-800-811-6640. questions@georgiacenter.uga.edu.

Summer Academy at UGA. Ages 11-17, depending on the specific camp. Weekly, June 1-July 24 (no camp June 29-July 3). Day camp and overnight camp. Price varies by individual camp. An exciting series of specialty summer camps in Athens for middle school and high school students who want to do amazing things. Whether you dream about becoming a film director, doctor, scientist or artist, we have a summer camp just right for you! You can immerse yourself in any world you choose, from photography to video game design to aviation to comic book art. You’ll work with experts in the field to get practical, hands-on experience, and receive helpful advice on how to get where you want to go. And you’ll do it all while having a really great time!

Orientation will be held May 15 from 6:30-8 p.m. at the Columbia County Exhibition Center. Open to 5th and 5th grade 4-H’ers. Cost: $348 and can be paid in installments.

Junior 4-H Camp 2015. June 22-26. Camp is for 7th and 8th grade 4-H’ers and is held at the Fortson 4-H Center. Cost: $360 and can be paid in installments.

VALLEY HILL FARM Matthews, Ga. Barbara Lee, 706-829-0981.

Overnight Horse Camp. Ages 7 and up. Thursday mornings through lunch on Saturdays during the month of June. $300 per session. Campers receive mounted and un-mounted instruction, as well as trail riding, games and other activities. Groups are kept small for a quality experience. Call for available dates.

VERY VERA The Cottage, 2708 Wheeler Rd. 706-294-3492. www.veryvera.com. vera@veryvera.com.

School of Good Taste Summer Cooking Camp.

Pre-Beginner (ages 6-7), June 8-12. Beginners (ages 8-10), June 15-19. Intermediate (have attended Beginner Class), June 22-26. Beginners (ages 8-10), July 13-17. Advanced Beginners (ages 11-12), July 6-10. Advanced (have attended Very Vera Cooking School for more than 2 years). July 20-2. Beginners, Advanced Beginners and Intermediate classes 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Pre-Beginners class 9 a.m.-noon. Will be preparing three new recipes each day along with hands-on kitchen experience, crafts, and nutrition/ manners and etiquette. Summer camp classes limited to 18 students. Four rooms utilized with groups of six working together. Visit VeryVera.com for more information.

WARREN BAPTIST CHURCH

ST JOHN UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

6420 Pollards Pond Rd., Appling.

706-541-4011 or email laluoma@uga.edu. www.ugaextension.com/columbia.

706-860-1586 flc@warrenbaptist.org warrenbaptist.org/flc ALL CAMPS: Camp fee $55.

Call or check website for details. Proper footwear is required for each camp. Campers can wear cleats to Soccer and Baseball camp.

Greene Street. www.stjohnaugusta.org.

Camp Wahsega 4-H Center Camp. June 8-12.

Baseball Camp. June 15-18. u

Camp Add-On Group Swim Lessons. $30 per week. Monday-Thursday, 8-8:45 a.m. or 3:30-4:15 p.m. Your camper will learn to swim with a Kroc swim instructor. Space is limited. Register early.

UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA EXTENSION, COLUMBIA COUNTY

www.augustafamily.com

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Cool Camps Soccer Camp. June 29-July 2.

Basketball Camp. July 6-9.

Cheer Camp. TBD. Tennis Camp. TBD.

WESTMINSTER SCHOOLS OF AUGUSTA 3067 Wheeler Rd. Sarah Merten, 706-751-5260, ext. 2339. smerten@wsa.net. summerprograms@wsa.net.

Go to www.wsa.net for complete camp details.

ARTS CAMPS Advance Choral Performance. Rising 8th-12th grade. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. $150. Advanced-level choral students will prepare music in advance of this one-week program. Rehearse for the first two days and perform at local venues for the remaining three days.

Adventures in Art. Rising PK-4th grade, June 1-5, 12:30-2:30 p.m. $150. Rising 5th-8th grade, June 8-12. 12:30-2:30 p.m. $150. Learn how to create new and beautiful masterpieces with a variety of materials and mediums.

Beginning-Moderate Tap Dance. Rising 6th grade-adult. June 22-26. 12:30-3:30 p.m. $170. Learn the basic skills of tap dance in an exciting, handson environment. The fundamentals of movement, stretching, and rhythm will all be covered. Come prepared to dance to several musical styles including jazz, contemporary, and swing! This class is for all ages and for boys and girls! No previous experience in dance is required. The class will conclude with a mini-recital on the last day of the camp.

DIY Home Décor. Rising 11th grade and up. Adults welcome. June 22-26. 10 a.m.-noon. $175. Learn to make beautiful decorative wreaths, the art of bow making, painting on canvas and more in this creative home decor class. You will learn to Do-It-Yourself and be able to say, “I made that!” at the end of each class.

Eat Your Homework: Math and Science. Rising 1st-5th grade. July 6-10. 1:30-3:30 p.m. $125. Learning is fun when you get to eat your homework! Learn what makes yeast bread rise, what happens when you whip egg whites and why understanding fractions are important. Students will discover that math and

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science lessons are practical in the real world…and tasty too!

Eating A to Z. Rising TK-K. July 6-10. 9-11 a.m. $125. Young chefs will practice their ABC’s while making snacks from different letters of the alphabet!

Grandmother’s Kitchen. Rising TK-K, June 1519, 9-11 a.m. $125. Rising 1st-5th grade. June 1519, 1:30-3:30 p.m. $125. Make some of the recipes your grandmother loves to make for you! Warm chocolate chip cookies, buttermilk biscuits and breakfast casserole are just a few of the dishes to be prepared.

Introduction to Piano. Rising 1st-4th grade.

June 15-19. 1-2p.m. $100. Children will learn basic keyboard skills using Musikgarten’s aural method (meaning they have lots of fun learning to sing the songs, dance to them, drum to them, etc., before playing them). At the end of the week they will be able to accompany their own singing with melody patterns and 1-2 chords.

Masters Chef. Rising 6th-8th grade, June 22-26, 9-11 a.m. $125. Rising 9th-12th grade, June 22-26, 1:30-3:30 p.m. $125. Students will make recipes written or inspired by famous chefs, such as Julia Child, Wolfgang Puck and Bobby Flay.

Musikgarten: Music Makers at the Seashore.

PreK-2nd grade. June 15-19. 9:30 a.m.-noon. $150.

Music Makers at the Seashore includes songs, dances, storytelling, focused listening, and crafts based on creatures found at the seashore. Play simple instruments, and have a little taste of piano during this fun interactive course!

Paul Owen’s Drama Camp. Rising 3rd-7th grade.

June 22-26. 9 a.m.-noon. $170. Enter the exciting and unpredictable world of drama where everyone is a star! Learn the basics of acting through dynamic theatre games, group activities, improv and pantomime. You will be learning from Westminster’s drama director alongside the students you’ve seen on the stage! The week ends with a hilarious performance from the entire group.

Sewing Basics. Rising 6th-8th grade. June 15-19.

9 a.m.-noon. $175. Learn to use that sewing machine that has been sitting unused at home. Learn the basics of sewing and how to use a machine. Make an

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accessory holder for small items and a decorative pillow. Students are encouraged to bring their own machines, but may contact Sarah Merten (smerten@ wsa.net) to borrow a machine.

Summer Ceramics and Sculpture. Rising 8th12th grade. June 1-12. 9 a.m.-noon. $350. Receive .25 upper school fine arts credit. An intense and fun two-week program in which students will learn advanced techniques in 3D art making, create completed works of clay art and learn about the history of sculpture. Campers will create pottery by throwing on the kick wheel. Off-campus trips will take students to meet with local artists and explore local art.

The British Invasion. Rising 6th-12th grade. June 22-26. 9 a.m.-noon. $150. Take a look at the history behind one of the greatest eras in pop music, beginning with the influence of American music that influenced such artists as Paul McCartney and Eric Clapton. Learn some of the stories behind the bands and their music, as well as some of the great songs associated with the greatest bands of the era. Bring your instruments!

ATHLETIC CAMPS Boys Basketball. Rising 1st-8th grade. June 1-5.

9 a.m.-noon. $150. A five-day action packed camp that focuses on technical training and advanced game play strategies through drills and fun competitions. Participants will be divided by age into small groups so that coaches can provide more personal instruction.

Cheerleading. Rising 1st-8th grade. June 15-19.

12:30-3:30 p.m. $150. A week-long program that will teach athletes everything from simple motions and chants to jumps, tumbling, and even basic stunting skills.

Football. Rising 1st-8th grade. June 8-12. 9 a.m.noon. $150. A week of skill development, team building and game play. Players will learn the fundamentals of blocking, tackling, positional play and team offensive/defensive concepts in a safe and fun environment.

Girls Basketball. Girls basketball coaches will instruct campers to improve their basketball skills.

Players will focus on technical training and game

Cool Camps play strategies and will be divided (by age) into small groups, allowing coaches to provide personal instruction.

Soccer. Rising 1st-8th grade. May 26-29. 9 a.m.noon. $135. Join two-time Westminster state champion and head coach Mike Freace and staff for an exclusive camp that focuses on individual instruction, technical training and small-sided games to improve each player’s abilities and confidence.

Tennis. Rising PreK-5th grade. June 1-5. 9-10:30 a.m. $90. Tennis Clinics will consist of an introduction of a stroke a day, stretching and conditioning exercises, fun drills and games for the children. The Quick Start Program will also be taught to all grade levels to develop proper strokes in tennis.

ACADEMIC CAMPS Advanced Public Speaking. Rising 11th-12th grade. June 22-26. 12:30-3:30 p.m. $150. Students will advance their communication skills. They will participate in exercises that focus on: preparing formal and informal talks, focusing when under the laser beam of pressure, using PowerPoint without being eclipsed by PowerPoint, handling Q&A: maintaining control, answering the difficult questions, crafting messages for maximum clarity and strength and being animated and confident in their delivery. Students will walk away with a sense of readiness for future academic endeavors.

Advanced Readings in Latin. July 6-17. 10-11 a.m. $150. Designed for students who have completed AP Latin. Students will study The Aeneid, including some of the most famous scenes that were omitted from the AP syllabus.

Book Club. Rising 1st-2nd grade. June 8-12. 9 a.m.noon. $135. Reading is exceptionally fun with Mrs. Shaver! Join this adventure filled book club for early elementary students, which will include books to take home and crafts to go along with each book every day.

Driver’s Ed. May 26-30. 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. $450.

Driver’s education is back! A week of classroom instruction, followed by six scheduled hours of behind the wheel training completed between June 1st and August 7th. Students must have a valid driver’s permit to register for the course.

Everyday Poetry: Reading and Writing in the World. Rising 9th-12th grade. June 15-19. 9 a.m.noon. $120. Read and engage with poems and then head off-campus to various locations for inspiration.

Draft poems of your own then return back to the lab to work them into fully formed poems. Share your work with each other, capping off the week with a reading of favorite poems from the week.

Foreign Language Prep. Rising 8th-9th grade.

July 13– 17. 10 a.m.-noon. $150. Designed specifically for students who need extra help or review with grammatical concepts. Rising 8th or 9th graders who took the class but need a refresher, rising 9th graders who did not get the chance to take this course or students who are new to Westminster may take this class. This course provides a grammatical foundation for all students who take Latin, French or Spanish.

The class covers language structure, including parts of speech, parts of the sentence, and verb conjugations. Please note that this class will involve homework.

Growing Green. Rising 3rd-5th grade, June 8-12, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $150. Rising 6th-8th grade, June 8-12, 1-3 p.m. $150. Students will use recycled objects as they construct take-home projects and learn about soil, composting, hydroponics and growing various types of edible plants organically. They will also learn to keep a “Gardener’s Journal”. Projects may include terrariums, container herb gardens, vermicosting bins, growing vegetables from kitchen “waste”, and growing sprouts and microgreens.

Hands and Feet. Rising 3rd-6th grade. June 2226. 9 a.m.-noon. $150. Put your hands and feet to work serving others as the hands and feet of Christ.

Hands-on projects through which we learn about the needs of our community, nation and world and work toward meeting those needs.

Ignite. Rising 4th and 5th grade. July 13-17. 9 a.m.noon. $150. Students will ignite their love for reading, writing and math through exciting projects, lessons and games. This isn’t your typical school day!

Intermediate Readings in Latin. July 6-17. 9-10 a.m. $150. This course is designed for students who have completed Latin 2 or above at Westminster Schools of Augusta. Improve your ability to read Latin at sight. During this course, you’ll read stories drawn from mythology. Non-Westminster students

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wishing to enroll in this course must contact the instructor at rnichols@wsa.net prior to enrollment.

Middle School Study Skills. Rising 6th–8th grade.

July 27-31. 10 a.m.-noon. $150. Begin the new school year off right with the Study Skills Course! This oneweek course focuses on the concepts of organization, time management (academic and personal), goal setting, note taking, testing, essay writing, basic study skills and more! Students will keep a notebook during the week so that they can use and review the materials once the new school year begins. This class is especially important for rising 6th graders and new Westminster Middle School students.

Public Speaking. Rising 8th-10th grade. June 1519. 12:30-3:30 p.m. $150. This program will focus on the importance of public speaking. Students will participate in exercises that will help them learn the skills needed to effectively communicate to others, whether in a small group discussion or making a presentation to a large group.

Spark. Rising 1st-2nd grade. July 6-10. 9 a.m.-noon. $150. This course will “spark” a love for reading, writing, and math in our young students. Spark is a foundational course designed to give your child a jump start to the grade level he/she will be entering in the fall of 2015. Spark will expose students to the classroom curriculum to ensure a smooth transition to the next grade level.

Summer Math Opportunities. Contact Marsha Cantrell at mcantrell@wsa.net for more information regarding Summer Math Opportunities.

The Great Book. Rising 11th-12th grade. July 2031. 9-10 a.m. $150. Come read and discuss Richmond Lattimore’s translation of The Odyssey. This course is designed to improve student’s skills in three key areas: reading comprehension, critical thinking and analytical writing. Students are welcome to stay for an optional hour of reading together for the next day’s assignment.

Writing Warriors. Rising 6th-8th grade. July 2731. 1-3 p.m. $150. This course is designed to help students further develop their writing skills. Work on organization of ideas, developing a thesis and supporting the thesis. Students will also work to overcome common mistakes or weaknesses seen in writing. u

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Cool Camps ADVENTURE CAMPS Camp Wildcat. Rising Kindergarten-2nd grade and Rising 3rd-5th grade. Full-Day: 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. $250. Morning: 9 a.m.-noon, $150. Afternoon: 12:30-3:30 p.m. $150. Daily activities ranging from arts and crafts to outdoor adventure trips and games, Camp Wildcat’s programs are engaging for any age.

Each session will have a different theme, so activities will vary from week to week.

American Girl. Rising Kindergarten-3rd grade. July 13-17. 9 a.m.-noon. $150. Travel through time with your favorite American Girl Dolls. Campers will focus on a different American Girl each day, exploring their history through crafts, snacks, toys, games and lessons. Bring your own American Girl to join in our adventures.

Bricks 4 Kidz: Clash of Bricks. Rising 1st-5th grade. June 22-26. 2:30-3:30 p.m. $135. Experience the thrill of battling barbarians, greedy goblins, powerful PEKKA’s and wild wall breakers! Based on the ridiculously popular video game/app (Clash of Clans), campers will build motorized and brick models of their favorite characters and scenes. Clans ‘clash’ in super exciting challenges that will have them buzzing for weeks about their camp experience! All campers customize their own mini-figure to take home, and receive a mini-model as well.

Careers in Business. Rising 10th-12th grade.

June 8-12. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. $150. Get a glimpse into the day-to-day life of business professionals. Each day of camp will be dedicated to a specific business career. Visit actual businesses and speak to experts in the area. Not only will you get an inside view of business operations, you will learn business etiquette and what to expect and how to act during a business meeting or lunch. In addition to the cost of camp, money for lunch in a restaurant will be required. We will be traveling on the school van each day to local businesses. Business dress is required.

Molly Manners: Kool to be Kind! Rising 1st-5th grade. June 1-5. 12:30-3:30 p.m. $145. Learn how to make impeccable introductions, dining etiquette, conversation skills and more with this Molly Manners class! Students will also learn etiquette, learn how to write thank-you notes, and gain confidence.

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Molly Manners: Nice is Right! Rising PK-1st grade. July 13-17. 12:30-3:30 p.m. $145. Learn friendly introductions, how to set the table, table manners and how to be a happy helper. Take your newly learned good manners from the playground to birthday parties!

Robotics. Rising 5th-8th grade. July 6-10. 9 a.m.noon. $175. In this NXT-based space adventure, campers will design, build and program their robots to work through light, touch, ultrasonic and sound sensors using the NXT line of Lego Robotics. This robotic feat will lead campers on the mechanical endeavor that reveals how exciting math, science and technology can be! At the end of the week, campers will apply their robotic skills to complete training missions on the moons surrounding the fictional planet Panthenon.

Wilderness Medicine. Rising 4th-8th grade. July 20-22. 9 a.m.-noon. $175. Can you survive this threeday wilderness survival camp? While hiking can you determine what plants are safe to eat? Do you know what snakes are poisonous? Will you know what to do if an emergency happens on the trail? This exciting camp answers all of these questions and more!

WHOLE LIFE MINISTRIES 2621 Washington Rd. www.wholelife.org.

706-737-4530. wlm@wholelife.org.

KidRiffic Summer Camp. Ages 4-10. June 15-19. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Activities include water games, bowling, movies, gym games, Kid’s church and more. Call for details.

WILL AVERY BASKETBALL CAMPS Evans Middle School. www.willaverybasketballcamps.com.

706-294-0767.

Summer Basketball Camp. Boys and girls, ages 6-14. June 2-6, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. June 6, 9 a.m.-noon. $125 before May 24 and $175 after. Late pick up available until 5 p.m. June 2-5 for an additional fee.

3-on-3 League. Boys and girls, grades k-5. 6 week beginning on June 7. $50. Registration is open until May 30.

Spring Classic. For boys and girls travel basketball teams, grades 3-8. May 16-18.

Fun With Fathers Basketball Camp. June 14. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. $60 for Parent/Child and $20 for each additional child. A full day camp that provides fathers or guardians quality time to spend with their sons and/or daughters without disruptions. This camp is designed to be fun, while teaching fundamentals of basketball.

Guard Camp. Rising 8th-12th grades. Girls, July 1-3; Boys July 7-9. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. $100 before June 20 and $150 after. This camp is for average to advance players. Players will work hands on with Will Avery and an experienced staff while participating in intense workouts, film study and competitive 1-on-1 and 3-on-3 games. This is for the player who is serious about improving his/her game and wants to play beyond high school.

A WORLD OF HOPE CHRISTIAN LEARNING CENTER

Journey 2015 Youth Camp. Ages 13-18. June 29-July 4. $240. Overnight camp at Camp Long in Aiken, S.C. Outdoor and Indoor Activities. Air conditioned facilities. Transportation provided. Call for details.

New Hope Baptist Church of Harlem.

671 Robinson Ave., Grovetown.

706-868-8955.

Summer Enrichment Camp. Ages 4-10. Weekly sessions June 2-August 1. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Extended-day rates available. Academic adventures providing activities to maintain the academic progress your child has made during the school year, while taking advantage of fun summer activities. Indoor and outdoor adventures are planned. Call or visit for details. v

Vacation Bible School. Ages 5-12. June 8-12 and July 13-17. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free.

Camp information is provided by the organizations listed and is subject to change.

Quest Camp. Ages 11-13. June 15-19. 8 a.m.-5p.m.

Activities include water games, bowling, movies, gym games and more. Call for details.

www.augustafamily.com

Summer

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Camps

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inspirationstation

by Mary Ashton Mills

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Ready to Re-Start

Kids Restart Provides a Wealth of Support Services for Reuniting Families in Augusta

I

t’s a situation filled with mixed and often confusing emotions. A child is removed from their home due to abuse or neglect.

They make a new home in foster care, but many will eventually return to their homes and parents. Reuniting families in these cases isn’t as simple as returning the child or children to the family home. These circumstances require a time for transition, readjustment and reconnection.

Kids Restart, a local non-profit, helps families in these situations gain trust, build relationships and spend time together.

Kids Restart, Inc., on Broad Street, began in 1999 and receives the majority of referrals from the Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS).

At Kids Restart, Inc., families find neutral ground for visitation services between parents and children once they have been legally separated.

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Helping Children and Parents According to Executive Director Daniella Coppess, each week the program assists the 51 children between the ages of 2 weeks and 17 years. Coppess has a master’s degree in psychology and counseling and is able to offer a skilled assessment of each family and the dynamics involved.

By working with DFCS and foster care, Kids Restart, Inc., is able to provide a neutral territory for supervised visitation. Not only do they provide the location and observe the visit, they also offer transportation for the children from their foster home to their offices and back. “Often times if a parent goes to DFCS for their supervised visit, they may see the case worker who removed the child from the home and immediately that can put a damper on the visit,� says Coppess.

By offering transportation and a neutral location, the

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families can focus on repairing their relationships.

Coppess says, “During visitation, the families are encouraged to bring meals, take part in interactive play and have some good, old-fashioned fun.�

The organization compiles documentation of the supervised visits as well as the steps the parents are taking to improve the situation that caused their child to be removed from the home. After each supervised visit, Kids Restart, Inc., sends all documentation of the visit to DFCS and will also provide court services as a witness for the parent and the state if needed. The goal is to get the children and parents back together while putting in place the skills and tools for them to achieve the goal of parenting their children with care and love. “It’s traumatic for a child to be removed from the home and placed in foster care and we try to prevent the child from going into foster care by offering hands-on parenting classes,� says Coppess. “We

{ inspirationstation help the parents work the plan and provide family enrichment activities, advocacy services and aftercare services.”

According to Coppess, once the child is placed back with their biological parents there is a certain “honeymoon phase” when everything is great, but the reality is that the children have been living in another home for six months or a year and they have had to live with new rules and new values. Real life sets in and they have to get used to that again. In addition, the parents also have an adjustment because they have been living without their child at home. Because of these factors, Kids Restart, Inc., provides bridge services and stays in frequent contact with the families to offer any assistance needed.

Classes for CSRA Kids Restart , Inc., also offers parenting and pregnancy prevention classes and instruction open to the public in the Augusta area. The teen pregnancy prevention program is part of a community wide initiative called Making Proud Choices. “The goal this year was to reduce the teen pregnancies in the CSRA by 10

percent and by attending this program, teens will learn to make good relationship decisions,” says Coppess noting they are on track to meet or exceed their goal this year. Helping teenagers between the ages of 15 and 19, the teen pregnancy prevention class educates teens on taking control of their bodies to help them have a promising future.

The hands-on parenting classes available through Kids Restart, Inc., are specific to each family and take place on a one-on-one basis.

Get Involved Community members can help out in several ways.

Kids Restart, Inc., is always accepting donations such as paper supplies, toys and monetary donations. Currently they are the recipients of a federal grant called Promoting Safe and Stable Families. This grant provides them with three federal dollars for every dollar donated. By donating a small amount, supporters are able to watch their donation triple thanks to this grant.

Volunteers are always needed for fundraisers and for help with families. Each year Kids Restart, Inc., hosts a golf tournament, gala and a race. These

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fundraisers are good ways to get involved. This year the golf tournament will be held on June 12 at Fort Gordon’s Gordon Lakes Golf Course. Volunteers and golfers are encouraged to participate.

Finally, there are opportunities to build relationships with families who are going through the program.

These types of volunteer positions involve a commitment. “We really like to stay in the lives of the families we help,” says Coppess. These types of volunteer positions would involve background screening and weekly time commitments, but the personal reward is great— seeing the love inside each family as they reconnect after time apart. Who doesn’t love a happy ending?

For more information on how to sign up for teen pregnancy prevention or parenting classes, ca;; Kids Restart, Inc. 706-828-0180. Check out their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kids-Restart-Inc/172496962796323. v Mary Ashton Mills lives in Augusta with her husband and two children.

Her work has appeared in Charleston Magazine, The Post and Courier and Augusta Family Magazine.

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calendar April 2015

Life Under the Crown During the annual Under the Crown event at the North Augusta Living History Park, historical interpreters from across the region will demonstrate colonial life and skills. Musketry, sewing, fire starting, woodworking, blacksmithing, tools and trades of the period as well as interactive discussions and activities with the interpreters provide an enriching experience for the whole family. Discover what happened in 1780 when the colonies rebelled and lives were changed forever. In addition to Under the Crown, the Colonial Trades Fair (formerly the Artisans Fair) will be underway at the park.

Artisans from throughout the region will be selling and showcasing their work.

For more information, visit www.colonialtimes.us.

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calendar SPECIAL EVENTS April 2. Opening Day: Evans Towne Farmers Market. Local farmers and gardeners committed to organic, sustainable practices sell fresh vegetables, fruits, eggs, meat, dairy products, honey, breads and more. Also features artisans, musicians, children’s activities and chefs selling freshly prepared takehome foods. 4:30-7 p.m. Grounds of the Columbia County Library. Every Thursday in April. www.evanstownefarmersmarket.com.

April 6. Mayor’s Masters Reception. This event honors Carl Jackson, who has caddied at every Masters except one since 1961. He caddied for Ben Crenshaw 35 times, including the two occasions on which he won the tournament. The event also features performances by Colt Ford, Katie Deal and Joshua Scott Jones plus free samples from dozens of area restaurants. Gates open at 5:45 p.m. Augusta Common.

April 18-19. Under the Crown. Discover what life was like when the colonies were in rebellion. In addition, the Colonial Trades Fair will be underway at the park.

Artisans from throughout the region sell and showcase their work. North Augusta Living History Park.

For more information, visit www.colonialtimes.us.

one of the New Faces of Comedy in 2013 at the Just for Laughs Festival. 7:30 p.m. USC-Aiken Convocation Center. www.uscatix.com.

April 24-26. Sacred Heart Garden Festival. Historic Sacred Heart Cultural Center will be the focus of classic Southern gardening during its annual garden festival. View the finest examples of garden and floral displays; buy unique plants, antiques and accessories in the vendor market; listen to and learn from garden experts during the speaker series and tour extraordinary private gardens. 706-826-4700.

April 25. Mead Hall Strawberry Festival. Games, contests, entertainment, a bake sale, food and plenty of freshly-picked strawberries. Proceeds benefit the school. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Mead Hall School. Downtown Aiken. 803-644-1122 or www.meadhallschool.org.

April 25. Benderdinker. Experience the tastes and sounds of the South during this festival on the water. Live music, local food, paddling, poker runs and Georgia-brewed sweet tea in your mason jar. Benefits Benderdigger, a youth garden program aimed at teaching the importance of slow foods (locally sourced and wild foods). 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Betty’s Branch. Evans. www.benderdinker.com.

MUSEUM AND SCIENCE EVENTS April 18. Pedal Through the Past. Bring your bike and enjoy a ride along the Augusta Canal towpath with an experienced Augusta Canal tour guide.

You’ll learn a bit about the history, engineering and natural surroundings that make the canal a National Heritage Area. 10 a.m. Meet in front of Lock Keepers Cottage at Savannah Rapids Parks. For more information, www.augustacanal.com or 706-823-0440.

April 15. Brown Bag History Lecture: Lights, Camera, Action! Theaters in Augusta. Theater historian Mike Deas leads a discussion. Bring a lunch; beverages provided. Refreshments served at 11:30 a.m.

Lecture, 12:30-1 p.m. Reservations not required.

Augusta Museum of History. 706-722-8454.

Reed Creek Park and Interpretive Center April 18. Earth Day Celebration. The city of Augusta, GRU and Phinizy Swamp invite you to a fun-filled day complete with food vendors, arts and crafts, and demonstrations by green businesses. Entertainment includes Eryn Eubanks and the Family Fold, Drum Circle Augusta and Sho Fusion Dance Arts Studio Hoopdancers. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Phinizy Swamp Nature Park. 706-828-2109.

April 19. Canal Trail Talk: Civil War Conclusions.

Learn how events in the spring of 1865 affected Augusta and the Confederate Powder Works. Canal guide Lynne Hill leads the discussion. 3-4 p.m.

Meets at 1717 Goodrich St. Confederate Powder Works Chimney at Sibley Mill. For more information, www.augustacanal.com.

April 21. A Night of Comedy. Event headliner Nicole Byer is the breakout of MTV’s hit show Girl Code and has appeared on NBC’s 30 Rock and Late Night With Jimmy Fallon. Other comedians include Pete Davidson, the youngest comedian to ever perform on Jimmy Kimmel Live, and Alice Wetterlund, named

3820 Park Lane, Martinez.

706-210-4027 or www.ReedCreekPark.com.

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Preregistration required.

April 3. Pond Exploration. With dip nets in hand, children will explore and learn about what animals live in the Reed Creek pond. Be prepared to get a little wet and muddy. For ages 5 & up. 4:30-5:30 p.m.

April 25. Wilderness Survival. This is a fun program for those who are interested in back-country camping or anyone wanting tips in emergency survival skills. Learn the "do's and don'ts" for dressing for the wilderness and what to bring when you go camping, ways to signal for help, as well as tips for making fires and shelters. For ages 8 & up. 11 a.m.noon.

April 29. Insect Investigations. Learn about our sixlegged friends while catching and releasing insects with bug nets in different areas of the park. For ages 5 & up. 4:30-5:30 p.m.

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THE ARTS, MUSIC AND MORE April 2. Jaimee Paul: Jazz Vocalist. A tribute to the glory days of the Jazz Age. Presented by the Aiken Performing Arts Group. 7:30 p.m. URS Theater. Aiken. 803-643-4774.

April 7. Rock FORE! Dough XI. Annual concert featuring Darius Rucker, Sam Hunt, a Thousand Horses and Phillip Lee Jr. Lady Antebellum Pavilion at Evans Towne Center Park. www.evanstownecenterpark.com.

April 8-12. Light Up the Sky. Presented by USCAiken University Theatre, Light Up the Sky takes place in the hotel room of Miss Livingston prior to the opening of a new play and follows a truck-driverturned-playwright watching his first play being produced in Boston. The opening night seems to go awry. However, when it turns out that the reviews are favorable, tables are turned. April 8-11, 7:30 p.m. April 12, 2 p.m. USC-Aiken Etherredge Center.

803-641-3305.

April 9. The 2nd Annual Major Rager. This year’s festival will be headlined by Gov’t Mule and include sets from Lettuce and the Revivalists. Following the event, Omega Moos (featuring members of Umphrey’s McGee and the New Deal) will play an after show at Sky City. Augusta Common. 706-821-1754.

April 17. Handel’s Messiah. The Columbia County Orchestra with Mass Choir. 7:30 p.m. St. Teresa of Avila in Grovetown. www.columbiacco.org.

April 12. Tyler Perry’s Madea on the Run. Tyler Perry’s most outrageously funny stage play ever. In trouble with the local authorities, Mabel Simmons, notoriously known as Madea, is on the run from the law. With no place to turn, she volunteers to move in with her friend Bam, who is recovering from surgery.

Unknown to Bam, however, Madea is only using the concerned friend gag as a way to hide. 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.

April 17-19, 24-26 and May 2. Boeing Boeing. Set in the 1960s, this French farce features Bernard, who has three fiancées, each a beautiful airline hostess with frequent “layovers.” Due to unexpected schedule changes, all three arrive at Bernard’s apartment at the same time. April 17-18, 24-25 and May 2 at 8 p.m. April 19 and 26 at 3 p.m. Aiken Community Playhouse. 803-648-1438.

April 17-May 29. Frieda Dean: Paintings and Multi-media. Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art. 706722-5495.

April 18. The Jungle Book. Join your favorite bunch of Jungle Book characters as they try to catch a tiger by the tail when the Missoula Children’s Theatre

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calendar and more than 50 local students present an original musical adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s classic tale.

This production is part of the Missoula Children’s Theatre’s unique international touring project. 3 p.m.

Fort Gordon’s Alexander Hall. 706-793-8552.

April 22. RAIN: A Tribute to the Beatles. The full range of the Beatles’ discography comes alive onstage. RAIN has mastered every song, gesture and nuance of the legendary foursome, delivering a totally live, note-for-note performance in this multimedia concert. 7:30 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.

April 24. Covenant Concert Series. The Mwangaza Choir, comprised of children from Uganda, Africa, bring a message of hope and salvation through dances, voices and moving testimonials. Reception follows. 7:30-9:30 p.m. Covenant Presbyterian Church. 3131 Walton Way. Augusta. 706-733-0513.

April 24. The Horszowski Piano Trio. When they played together for the first time, Jesse Mills, Raman Ramakrishnan and Rieko Aizawa immediately felt the spark of a unique connection. Many years of close friendship have created a deep trust among the players, which in turn has led to exhilarating, expressive freedom. Part of the Harry Jacobs Cham-

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ber Music Series. 7:30 p.m. Maxwell Performing Arts Theatre. GRU campus. 706-667-4100.

April 25. Scheherazade! Prokofiev’s Suite From the Love for Three Oranges, Liszt’s Piano Concerto No. 2 and Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade. 7:30 p.m.

First Baptist of Augusta. www.soaugusta.org or 706826-4705.

April 27. Paramore With Friends Copeland: Writing the Future Tour. Paramore showcased a string of smash singles, including two top 40, platinum-certified hits: “Still Into You” and “Ain’t It Fun.” 8 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.

April 1-30. Jeff Tilden. The local painter’s work involves characters in ironic, poignant or humorous situations. Sacred Heart Cultural Center. 706-8264700.

Morris Museum of Art 1 Tenth St. 706-724-7501 or www.themorris.org.

April 1-12. American Dreams: Paintings by John Mellencamp. Exhibition features 50 oil and mixedmedia paintings, including several that have never been seen by the public.

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April 1-26. In Celebration of Golf: Landscapes

by Linda Hartough. Linda Hartough painted landscapes, portraits and horses until 1984, when Augusta National Golf Club commissioned her to paint the famed 13th hole, which began her career as a golf landscape artist. April 2, exhibit opening reception. 6 p.m.

April 1-June 7. For the Birds: Folk Art Birdhouses.

Birdhouses have become a matter of keen interest to serious collectors of folk art. This exhibition is a representative sample of a large collection of these engaging objects, which the Morris Museum of Art has acquired from collector Julia J. Norrell.

April 2. Mommy and Me: A Bird’s Life. View folk art from the Morris Museum’s permanent collection and hear the story The Best Nest by P.D. Eastman.

Afterwards, make a bird feeder for the birds at your house. Registration required. Call to register and inquire about fees.

April 3. Films on Friday: A Night To Remember (1958). In recognition of the unveiling of a recently acquired and restored portrait of Augusta’s own Titanic hero, Major Archibald Butt, and to commemorate the 103rd anniversary of the great ship’s sinking, the Morris will screen A Night To

calendar Remember. Museum Director Kevin Grogan leads a discussion. Participants are invited to bring a lunch. Free. Noon.

in honoring the 2015 Porter Fleming Literary Competition award winners. First-place winners will read from their entries. A reception follows. Free. 5-7 p.m.

April 10. Linda Hartough Print Signing. World-renowned golf artist Linda Hartough will be signing a variety of prints of her work in the Museum’s store.

2-4 p.m.

April 19. Music at the Morris: Cockappella. University of South Carolina’s student a cappella group performs popular songs. Free. 2 p.m.

April 14. Southern Circuit Film Series: If You Build It. After viewing the movie, enjoy a question-andanswer session with filmmaker Patrick Creadon.

Free. 6 p.m.

April 23. Senn Designs Jewelry Workshop. Create a beautiful, one-of-a-kind necklace under the guidance of Senn Design staff. 6-8 p.m. Morris Museum of Art. Call for reservations. 706-828-3888.

April 16. Art Now: Music Maker Tintype. Tim Duffy, executive director of the Music Maker Relief Foundation, and Aaron Grennhood, artist services coordinator, discuss their organization and the wet-plate collodion tintype process used to create portraits of Southern roots musicians. Free. 6 p.m.

April 24. Art at Lunch: Rolling Stone Press. Lynn Froelich and Andrew Kline discuss the history of the Rolling Stone Press, a lithography atelier established by the late artist Wayne Kline. Lunch included. Preregistration required by April 22. Noon.

April 17. Music Maker Tintype Demonstration. Meet Georgia’s hidden musical personalities and view the tintype process during an ongoing demonstration.

Free. 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

April 18. Porter Fleming Literary Competition Awards Ceremony. Join the Morris Museum of Art

SPORTS April 18. Earth Day People Chase 5k. Aiken’s Earth Day People Chase is a 5k fun run through historic downtown Aiken. Participants will conquer a variety of obstacles constructed from recycled materials along the course. Afterward visit educational and environmental awareness exhibits and enjoy food

vendors and live music. Fun run starts at 9:15 a.m., Newberry Street Festival Center. Downtown Aiken.

Register at www.active.com.

April 18. Run With Art 5k. 5k run is held in memory of the late artist and fitness enthusiast Kath Engler.

Named for the fitness camps she conducted for hundreds of area children, the event also includes art projects and other fun activities. Sponsored by the Walton Foundation. For more information, 706826-5809. (See News&Notes on pages 10 & 11 for more information) April 19. 12th Annual Best Dam Ride. This bicycle event consists of 25, 60, 80 and 100 mile century options. There will be 5, z20, 36 and 50 mile mountain bike courses on the historic Bartram Trail. Begins at J. Strom Thurmond Lake at Clarks Hill Dam. Registration at 7 a.m; ride begins at 8:30 a.m. To register, visit Chain Reaction Bicycles in Evans or go to www.active.com. Benefits the Southeastern Firefighters Burn Foundation.

April 25. Swamp Stomp. This 5 and 10k crosscountry course runs through scenic Phinizy Swamp Nature Park woods and wetlands, and has mild changes in elevation. 7-10 a.m. 706-828-2109.

April 27. Lions Swing Fore Sight. A benefit golf tournament to increase awareness of and assistance for the visual and hearing impaired. Includes raffles, prizes, contests, lunch and awards reception. Entry deadline is April 20. Registration from 9-10 a.m.

Shotgun start at 10 a.m. Mount Vintage Golf Club.

375 Mount Vintage Plantation Dr. North Augusta. For more information or to register call, (901) 596-6640 or 803-624-0172.

Augusta-Richmond County Recreation Department East Augusta, May Park, 622 4th St. 706-724-0505.

South Augusta, Fleming Athletic Office, Daniel Street. 706-796-5047.

West Augusta, Eisenhower Athletic Office, 488 Eisenhower Dr. 706-821-2801.

April 1-30. Adult Summer Athletic Registration.

Divisions: Open co-ed and men’s open, men’s and women’s church, open co-ed church and open men’s industrial. Registration held at the Diamond Lakes Adult Complex, 108 Diamond Lakes Way, Hephzibah. 706-771-2980.

Columbia County Recreation Department 5445 Columbia Road, Grovetown.

706-863-7523.

April 27-May 8. Summer Basketball Registration.

Co-ed basketball, ages 10-15. Season played JuneJuly. All games played at Bobby Waters Gymnasium Complex at Patriots Park.

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calendar CSRA Defensive Arts 803-221-0330 or csraDefensiveArts.com.

Martial Arts Classes. Ages 8-adult. Goshinjitsu, Kindai Karate and Kobojutsu. Call for information.

RECREATION PROGRAMS Champions Made From Adversity P.O. Box 980, Evans, Ga. 706-364-2422. www.cmfa.us.

This nonprofit organization strives to advance the lives of people with physical disabilities and their families through sport and leisure opportunities.

Current weekly schedule: Monday—Adapted fitness at the Kroc Center, 2-4 p.m. and wheelchair basketball at Garrett Elementary School, 6:30-8 p.m.

Tuesday—Swimming at Fort Gordon, 9-11 a.m., and quad rugby at the Kroc Center, 6-8 p.m.

Wednesday—Wheelchair basketball, 6:30-8 p.m.

Thursday—Swimming at Fort Gordon, 9-11 a.m., and Adapted Fitness at the Kroc Center, 3-5 p.m.

Friday—Adapted cycling at the uptown VA, 1:302:30 p.m.

The Family Y Financial assistance is available for all Family Y programs. Register at any branch or online at www.thefamilyy.org or call 706-922-9622.

April 1-19. Registration for Miracle League Baseball. Miracle League is a baseball league specifically designed for youth and adults with physical and developmental disabilities. Games are played on a rubberized surface located behind the Uptown Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center on Wrightsboro Road. Ages 4 years and up.

April 1-21. Marshall Family Y Lacrosse Registration. For boys and girls ages 7-15. Discount for additional siblings.

April 6-10. Master’s Week Camp at the Family YMCA. Ages 5-15. Camp activities from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Early drop off at 7 a.m. and late pick-up at 6 p.m. is available at no additional cost. Discount for additional siblings. Free spots available to those who qualify. Camps are held at the following locations: Family Y of Augusta South, Wilson Family Y, Marshall Family Y, Steiner Family YMCA, Family Y of Aiken County and Family Y of North Augusta.

April 10. Freedom Friday at Family Y of Augusta South. Kids enjoy a fun night from 6-9:30 p.m.

Ages 8 weeks-12 years. Freedom Friday is free for active duty military families. Discount for additional siblings.

April 11. Parent’s Night Out at Family Y of North Augusta. April 11 & 25. Parent's Night Out at the

Marshall Family Y. Open to children ages 2-12.

6-9:30 p.m. Kids have a fun night at the Y while parents enjoy a night out. Discount for additional siblings.

April 18. Parent’s Night Out at Family Y of Aiken County. Children ages 2-12, with care from 5:30-9 p.m. Kids have fun at the Y while parents enjoy a night out.

MY BEST FRIEND'S SEWING ROOM—SEWING CLASSES 3850 Washington Rd. 706-993-8819 or email mybfsewingroom@ yahoo.com. www.mybestfriendssewingroom. com.

Call or email for class fees. Pre-registration is required for all classes and events.

April 20-May 14. Swim Lessons at Wilson Family Y. Ages 3-12 years. No classes held spring break week. Open to Family Y members and non-members. Discount for additional siblings.

April 16. Sew Blessed. This month’s class features a seasonal mug rug and cup cozy.

In lieu of class fee, donations will be accepted for Julie’s House, a nonprofit organization offering support to homeless women and children. 10 a.m.-noon.

April 25. Parent’s Night Out at Wilson Family Y and Family Y of Augusta South. Kids enjoy a fun night from 6-9:30 p.m. Ages 2-12 years at Wilson Family Y and 8 weeks-12 years at Family Y of Augusta South.

April 16. Beginner Sewing 101. Adults/ teens. Learn to sew the basics while making a pillowcase in this beginner class. Supply list provided upon receipt of payment.

6-8:30 p.m.

Ongoing. Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson Disease Aquatic Exercise Class. Sponsored by the CSRA Parkinson Support Group and the Wilson Family Y. Group class designed specifically for ambulatory participants affected by Multiple Sclerosis or Parkinson Disease. Mondays and Fridays at noon at the Wilson Family Y. For more information, call Claudia Collins at 706-922-9664.

April 17. Mom’s Morning Out, Sewing In. Enjoy some precious “mommy time” and sew a hooded towel for your little munchkin while you’re at it. Supply list provided upon receipt of payment. Beginners are welcome.

10 a.m.-noon.

Ongoing. Family Y BlazeSports Team at the Wilson Family Y. Swim team for all ages of physically challenged swimmers to train for competition. (Part of the BlazeSports Clubs of America training future paralympians.)

Ongoing. Adapted Aquatics Special Populations at Wilson Family Y. Individualhalf-hour classes for all ages affected by physical or cognitive disabilities and individuals needing aquatic rehabilitation.

By Appointment Only—Call Claudia Collins at 706922-9664.

Ongoing. Adult Swim Lessons at the Wilson Family Y. Enrich your life by learning to swim. Ages 13 and up. Classes held Tuesdays/Thursdays at 10 a.m. or 7:20 p.m., or Mondays/Wednesdays at 7:20 p.m.

Ongoing. Family Y of North Augusta Mother’s Morning Out. Enjoy your morning while your child learns the basic educational curriculum and rotating instruction in creative arts and sports. Ages 2-4 years. Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday from 9 a.m.-noon. Call for fee information.

Ongoing. Family Y of Augusta South Drop and Shop. Enjoy a productive morning while your kids have fun at the Y. Monday–Friday from 8:30 a.m.noon for ages 8 weeks–4 years. Discount for additional siblings.

April 17. Appliqued Wall Hanging. Learn how to machine applique while letting your inner artist come out to play. Sewing kit and machine use included. 6-8:30 p.m. For adults/teens.

April 18. Sewing Seeds Club. Learn the basics of sewing, a valuable life skill, while completing a different project every month.

Sewing machine and kit provided. 10 a.m.noon. Ages 9 & up.

April 22. Earth Day Upcycled Project. Bring an old pair of jeans and a long fashion scarf to make an upcycled tote. 10 a.m.-noon. For adults/teens.

April 23. Urge to Serge Part 1. It’s National Serger Month and time to dust off your serger. In this beginning serger class you will construct a table runner and matching cloth napkins. Must know how to thread your serger. Supply list provided. 10-12:30 p.m. For adults.

April 24. Burlap Door Hanger. Sew a seasonal burlap door hanger. Bring a friend or two or three! No sewing experience necessary. 10 a.m.-noon or 7-9 p.m. For adults.

April 25. Urge to Serge Part 2. In honor of National Serger Month, you will be making a mostly serged panel apron. Sewing Kit provided. Bring your serger! Must know how to thread it. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. For adults/teens

Ongoing. Family Y of North Augusta Drop and

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Shop. Enjoy a productive morning while your kids have fun at the Y. Monday–Friday from 9 a.m.-noon.

Discount for additional siblings.

Ongoing. Tae Kwon Do at the Wilson Family Y, Family Y of Augusta South, and Family Y of North Augusta. Tae Kwon Do lessons develop confidence and self-esteem. Beginner and advanced classes offered. Ages, days and times vary by Y location.

Discount for additional siblings.

The Salvation Army Kroc Center 1833 Broad Street, Augusta. www.krocaugusta.org.

706-364-KROC or info@krocaugusta.org.

Call or email for course fee information.

April 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29. Toddler Tuesday. Walkers up to 5 years. Enjoy the splash area and more.

One adult is free per child admission. Parent must remain with the child. Swim diaper and plastic pants are required for infants and toddlers. 10:30 a.m.-noon.

April 1, 8, 19, 22 & 29. Kroc Kids. Free and open to the community. Ages 4 years through 12th grade. Youth of all ages will build character, explore personal strengths, develop life skills, make music and more. Program separated by age. 5 p.m. Call Kroc Church at 706-364-4278 for details.

April 3, 10, 17 & 26. Kroc Tots Activity Hour. Ages 18 months to 5 years. An action-packed play date for parents and toddlers featuring children’s literature, art and craft projects and social play. A guardian must remain with the child during Kroc Tots.

9:30-10:30 a.m.

April 4-25. Lifeguarding Saturday Classes. 8 a.m.3 p.m.

April 6-10. Camp Kroc. An ACA accredited day camp program where children are in a safe and positive environment. Ages 5-12. Swimming, arts and crafts, group games, sports, Bible lessons and more. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

April 6-10. Lifeguarding One-Week Class. The course content and activities prepare participants to recognize and respond quickly and effectively to emergencies and prevent drownings and injuries.

Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

April 11. First Aid, CPR & AED. Be prepared to respond to common first aid emergencies including burns, cuts, head, neck and back injuries and cardiac and breathing emergencies in adults, as well as the use of automated external defibrillators (AED). 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

April 13-25. Lifeguarding Two-Week Class. Mon-

calendar day, Tuesday and Thursday from 6-10 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

April 13-May 11 (Mondays). Clay Classes: Yard Art. This session focuses on garden decorations, wind chimes, birdhouses and flowerpots. Children ages 7-12 from 5-5:45 p.m., ages 13 and up from 6-8 p.m. With instructor Betsy Borgatti. No experience necessary. Supplies included in fee.

April 13-May 11 (Mondays). Ballroom & Salsa Youth. Ages 12-16. Learn basic movements used in social dancing and Salsa from instructor Ashlyn Poss. You do not need a partner to take the class.

5:30-6:30 p.m.

April 13-May 11 (Mondays). Intro to Swing Dancing. Ages 13 and up. Learn the fundamentals of partner swing dance as well as solo jazz. Bionica Davis will teach students the East Coast Swing, Lindy, Hop and the Charleston. 6:30-7:30 p.m.

April 14-May 7. Still Krockin'. Swimming lessons for ages 16 and up. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11-11:45 a.m. or 7:15-8 p.m.

April 14-May 12 (Tuesdays). Salsa Dancing.

Ages 16 and up. Be creative and confident on the dance floor in this introductory course in Latin dance.6:30-7:30 p.m.

April 14-May 12 (Tuesdays). Salsa-cize. Ages 16 and up. Get your heart pumping and forget it's a workout while you dance in this upbeat class designed to increase heart rate and activity. 7:30-8:30 p.m.

April 15-May 13 (Wednesdays). Beginning Painting for Adults. Learn how to paint in watercolors and acrylics with Gretchen Hash Heffner. No experience needed. Supplies included in fee. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Ages 17 and up.

April 16-May 14 (Thursdays). Mini Monet. Ages 3-5. Children will make a different art project at each session. Parents are welcome but not required. Supplies included. 10-11 a.m.

April 16-May 14. Home School Art. Join Wendy Murphy and explore the art of other cultures and times. Supplies provided. Kindergarten through 7th grade. 1-2:30 p.m.

April 16-May 14 (Thursdays). Afterschool Art: Contemporary America. Join Wendy Murphy and explore the art of other cultures and times. Supplies provided. Kindergarten through 7th graders.

4-5 p.m.

April 16. Coffee and Canvases. Ages 13 and up. Relax after a long day by letting your artistic side loose and creating your own masterpiece.

www.augustafamily.com

No experience necessary. Great to enjoy with a group of friends. Coffee, cookies and canvases provided. 6:30-8:30 p.m.

April 18. Books & Brushes: Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. Read a specially selected book and create an art project based on it. Ages 3 and up. 10-11:30 a.m.

April 18. Manga Club. Ages 10 and up. Join Xavier Jones to learn techniques for drawing Manga style artwork. No previous experience needed. Supplies provided. 1-5 p.m. Call for fees.

April 24. Family Movie Night. Members may reserve seats up to a week before the event. Spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Adult must remain with children. Call for movie title. Free. 6 p.m.

Music Classes All classes held on Tuesdays, April 14-May 12.

Beginner Guitar. Ages 7-13. 4-5 p.m.

Piano: Children's Beginner. Ages 5-9. 4:30-5:30 p.m.

String Jam. Ages 11 and up. 5-6 p.m.

Piano: Beginner. Ages 10 and up. 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Ukulele. Ages 7 and up. 6-7 p.m.

Piano: Advanced Beginner. Ages 10 and up. 6:307:30 p.m.

HOSPITAL PROGRAMS Georgia Regents Health System Register online at gru.edu.

Ongoing. Support Group for Families Who Have Lost a Baby During Pregnancy, Childbirth or Early Infancy. Call 706-721-8299 or visit their website.

First Tuesday of Each Month. Autism Spectrum Disorder Support and Resource Group (The “ATeam”). Education and support for families, caregivers and friends of children with autism spectrum disorders including autism, Asperger’s and PDD NOS. 6-7 p.m. Children’s Hospital of Georgia, First Floor, Family Resource Library, Room 1801. Call Family Services Development at 706721-5160 for more information.

First Thursday and Third Wednesday of Each Month. Cribs for Kids. Co-bunking and inappropriate infant furniture are putting area babies at risk. Safe Kids Greater Augusta, led by Children's Hospital of Georgia, will teach caregivers how to provide a safe sleep environment by showing what dangers to watch out for. Families who can demonstrate a financial need (Medicare, Peachcare or WICC) will receive a portable crib, fitted sheet, sleep sac and pacifier for a small fee. Call Rene Hopkins at 706-721-7606 to register. 5:45-8 p.m.

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April 14. Childbirth Education 101. Learn about the signs and symptoms of labor as well as labor and delivery. 6-8:30 p.m.

April 17. Baby Care Basics & Breastfeeding. This class combines two important topics. A boardcertified lactation consultant teaches the class and covers a range of helpful topics including diapering, bathing, feeding, cord care, nipple care, milk storage, weaning and more.

April 17. Breastfeeding Support Group. Help, understanding and guidance in breastfeeding.

April 18. Growing Boys. Boys ages 9-12 accompanied by their father, male relative or friend will find helpful information on what to expect in the preadolescent years. Knowing what to expect can help boys weather this transition without undue anxiety, confusion and frustration April 28. Infant CPR. Learn how to respond in an emergency situation using infant mannequins and a simple step-by-step method. 6-8 p.m.

Augusta GreenJackets 2015 Home Game Schedule Lake Olmstead Stadium | For tickets 706-736-7889 www.greenjacketsbaseball.com April 16-19 vs. Rome | April 20-22 vs. Charleston | April 28-30 vs. Lakewood

on the first Thursday of the month, 9:45 a.m.-noon on the third Wednesday of each month. Safe Kids Office, Building 1010C,1225 Walton Way. First Friday and Second Wednesday of Each Month. Child Safety Seat Inspections. Four out of five car seats are used incorrectly. Schedule an appointment to make sure yours is installed properly.

First Friday of the month in Building 1010C, 1225 Walton Way. Call Rene Hopkins, RN, at 706-7217606 to schedule an appointment at the downtown location. The second Wednesday each month at Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Substation, 650 Ronald Reagan Dr. Call 706-541-3870 to make an appointment at the Columbia County location.

Second Thursday and Fourth Wednesday of Each Month. Car Seat Class. Safe Kids Greater Augusta offers car seat safety, education and training. Financial assistance is available to Medicaid and Peach Care eligible families. Safe Kids Office, Building 1010C, 1225 Walton Way. Call 706-721-7606 to register. 5:45-8 p.m.

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Third Tuesday of Each Month. Breastfeeding Class.

A free class led by an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Helps expectant parents gain knowledge and support to ensure successful breastfeeding. 7-9 p.m., Georgia Regents Medical Center, 7th Floor South, Room 7524.

5SJOJUZ )PTQJUBM PG "VHVTUB Call Women’s Health Services at 706-481-7727 or visit trinityofaugusta.com for information and registration. Please call for class times.

April 18. Saturday Express Lamaze Childbirth Education. Helps mother and support person understand the final stages of pregnancy as well as labor and the birth of your baby. Covers natural and medicated deliveries, Lamaze coping techniques and more. 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

April 14. On Being a Girl. This class is designed for girls ages 9 to 12 accompanied by their mother, a female friend or relative. Discussion is focused on physical and emotional changes of puberty.

www.augustafamily.com

6OJWFSTJUZ )FBMUI $BSF 4ZTUFN Call 706-774-2825 or logon at www.universityhealth. org/calendar for information. Registration is required for most programs.

April 13-27 (Mondays), April 14-28 (Tuesdays) or April 15-29 (Wednesdays). Prenatal Education. This multiweek series of childbirth preparation classes is designed to inform and prepare all expectant parents regardless of birth plans. Class topics include various stages of labor, breathing and relaxation and how to care for yourself and your new baby. 7-9 p.m. in the Women’s Center Third Floor Classroom. Registration required.

April 16. Breastfeeding Class. This class offers indepth information on how to evaluate breastfeeding and get off to a good start. Registration is suggested. Call 706-774-2825. 7-8 p.m. at Babies R Us, 4225 Washington Rd., Evans.

April 17 & 18. Childbirth Preparation Weekend Class. A complete childbirth preparation class designed for those with time constraints or fluctuating schedules. Class meets from 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Friday and from 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. on Saturday. Also included is a follow-up evening at the W.G. Watson, M.D., Women’s Center for a tour, question-and-answer session and review.

April 23. Introduction to Infant CPR. Do you worry about knowing how to revive your baby should the need arise? This class provides an opportunity to learn and practice infant CPR on mannequins and learn other aspects of infant safety. Space is limited, so early registration is suggested. 7-8:30 p.m. v

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WHEN: Saturday, April 18th

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WHERE: Warren Baptist Church at the corner of Fury’s Ferry & Washington Road TIME: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

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by Karin Calloway

Crystal Neal | Resilient Crystal Neal, 35, of Hephzibah, is the lead exercise physiologist at Georgia Regents Medical Center, an author, recording artist and full-time seminary student. She is the mother of two children, ages 8 and 5, and appears in “Getting Fit with Crystal” segments on WRDW. Crystal volunteers at Golden Living Nursing Home and works with the women’s ministry at Tabernacle Baptist Church.

Dream job: Itinerant motivational speaker. Wanted to be when she grew up: An actress. Dream vacation: Dubai. Favorite TV show: Criminal Minds. Important life lesson: “In life, you have to maximize every moment because you can never get them back once they are gone.” Surprising fact about Crystal: I am naturally extremely shy. Super power she wishes she had: The ability to juggle life. Favorite food: Mushrooms. Quality she admires the most: Consistency. Signature dish: Chicken salad. Favorite indulgence: Sweet tea. Best thing about being a mom: I love to watch my children grow and develop educationally and socially. Many times they teach me lessons in their innocence. Hardest thing about being a mom: As a working mom, you give so much energy during the day at work that by the time you get home you are drained but still have to give energy to the kids. Biggest fear: Being unprepared. Greatest hope: That I will motivate and inspire others to find their purpose and know that they have greatness in them. Everyone has greatness inside of them.

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www.augustafamily.com