May/June 2015 SUMMER FUN IN THE SUN DADS ARE DOING MORE ANNUAL SPIRIT OF NURSING SPECIAL SECTION
Family am AUGUSTA
m a g a z i n e
Look Alikes Parent-Child Look Alike Contest Winners: Catherine and Cayla Johnson of Grovetown.
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Family AUGUSTA
m a g a z i n e
w w w. a u g u s t afamily.co m PUBLISHER Kate Cooper Metts
Contents
May/June 2015
EDITOR Karin Calloway PRODUCTION Art Director / Web Producer Michael Rushbrook
27
Graphic Artist Chris Goodman ADVERTISING Director of Advertising Lisa Dorn Advertising Sales Doressa Hawes Lisa Taylor Maidi McMurtrie Thompson Mary Porter Vann Audience Development Manager Jessica Seigler PHOTOGRAPHY Barry Koenig 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.
Annual Nursing Special Section: Ethical Practice/Quality Care
18
By Lucy Adams Photography by John Harpring
Look Alikes!
Check out the winners and runners up in our Parent-Child Look Alike Contest
23
Dads Matter By Lucy Adams
May/June
departments 7 9
editorâs page mom2mom
16
Ahhhh...Spring Break! -Jennie Montgomery
10 13
news&notes eating well with kim April Showers Bring May...Strawberries?
-Kim Beavers, MS, RD, LD, CDE and Melanie Wells, Dietetic Intern
14
smart momâs guide
Suiting Up What You Need To Have on Hand for Summer Fun in the Sun! -Cammie Jones
32
inspiration station
StrokesâKids Have Them, Too -Mary Ashton Mills
34 46
doctor/dad
Fitness Monitors: Fantastic or Fraud? -J. Ron Eaker, M.D.
calendar go girl!
Dr. Leila Jerome Clay -Karin Calloway
qu ick pick âWomen possess the power to either reduce the role of dad to that of the guy who goes to the office during the week and cuts the grass on the weekends or to elevate a fatherâs role to that of advisor, helper, caregiver, bedtime storyteller, carpool driver and safe harbor for a child in any storm.â Read Lucy Adamsâ article about the important role of fathers on page 23.
ON THE COVER: Catherine and Cayla, 4, Johnson, of Grovetown, are the winners of our first Parent-Child Look Alike Contest. Catherineâs husband and Caylaâs father is Tech. Sgt. James Johnson. Cayla has a brother, Jayden, who is 7. Photo by Barry Koenig of Carter Koenig Photography.
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editor’s by Karin Calloway
Introducing Ashlee
L
ast month I announced that our publisher, Kate Metts, is moving on to a new opportunity and this month I’d like to introduce you to our new publisher, Ashlee Griggs Duren. Ashlee, 38, lives in Aiken with her husband, Ron, a horse trainer, and her 3-year-old daughter Harper. They have a rescue beagle-mix named Lulu. She loves to read, and enjoys spending her free time with her family. Ashlee has been with Morris Communications (our parent company) for 16 years, beginning in the newsroom and most recently working in marketing, both at The Augusta Chronicle. In her new position Ashlee will serve as publisher to Augusta Family Magazine, Augusta Magazine, Aiken Homes and Livestyles and Skirt! Magazine. Ashlee knew from an early age that she wanted to be a journalist and other than her current occupation, her dream job would be to be a member of the White House Press Corps. Here are some fun facts about Ashlee: r )FS GBWPSJUF JOEVMHFODFT BSF DIPDPMBUF BOE SFE XJOF r )FS ÄĹSTU KPC XBT NBLJOH CPXT BU 'BU .BO T 8FTU JO &WBOT r )FS TJHOBUVSF EJTI JT QFDBO QJF r 0OF XPSE TIF E VTF UP EFTDSJCF IFSTFMG "EWFOUVSPVT r )FS GBWPSJUF 57 TIPX JT Scandal. r i-FU *U (Pu GSPN Frozen is the song that’s playing in her head. (She says it’s all they seem to watch at her house besides Curious George.) We are excited to welcome Ashlee to the helm of our team, and look forward to working with her! Until July,
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 by Jennie Montgomery
ILLUSTRATION BY MICHAEL RUSHBROOK
Ahhhh... Spring Break!
I
loved Spring Break trips when I was in college and have so many fun memories! The muchanticipated week always came at exactly the right time. My own college kids seem to really enjoy the Spring Break memories theyâre making, too. Iâve noticed, though, with each passing year fewer pictures are posted on social media. HmmmâŚmaybe thatâs a good thing! As long as theyâre making decent choices, I figure theyâve earned that week to kick back, forget about their classes and deadlines and just have fun. That Zack surely knows how to work it! Where do I start? In Zackâs World, Spring Break is something to be observed whether or not you are actually a student. Yep, Zack still joins his friends on their annual Spring Break trip, even though he is the one who opted out of college for the burning desire to follow his passion. Did I mention that in Zackâs World compensation is not necessarily a part of that passion? The term âStarving Artistâ comes to mind. Only heâs not starving because he has a room in my house. (And even though Iâm the worldâs worst about grocery shopping, thereâs always something canned in the pantry AND thereâs a sad little dented and ice-covered vegetarian entrĂŠe in the freezerâŚthat no one has been starving quite enough to eat in the last two or three years!) Zack gave me little notice that he was making a road trip with his (soon-tograduate) friends. I asked him to help me put out the Masters flag but he said, âDidnât I tell you Iâve got Spring Break?â In Zackâs World, one can only complete a single task at a time: âSorry! See you in 10 days, Mom.â I guess hanging my flag would have delayed his not-even-legit Spring Break by what, 5 minutes? Come on! Well, the boy surprised me. Four nights later he and his buddies showed up at the house just to SURPRISE ME. He didnât want money, didnât need a place to crashâthey were passing through and he wanted to hug my neck. Zackâs World is anything but predictable! v JENNIE MONTGOMERY anchors the evening news at WJBF-TV. She and her husband, Scott, have three children.
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news notes
;\\g jldd\i `j n_\e cXq`e\jj Ä” e[j i\jg\ZkXY`c`kp - Sam Keen
Team Lean Winners
Boat Safety MORE THAN 70 MILLION AMERICANS enjoy recreational boating each year. Unfortunately, about 2,500 people were injured and nearly 600 died in boating accidents in 2013, according to the latest statistics from the U.S. Coast Guard. That’s why it’s so important to practice boat and water sports safety. The biggest lifesaver is your life vest. Most boating-related drownings can be prevented by wearing personal flotation devices. Recreational boats must carry one appropriatelysized life jacket approved by the Coast Guard for each person on board, and the jackets must be kept accessible and in good condition. 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 ÄĹš nd out more about local Safe Kids programs, call 706-721-7606, or visit grhealth.org/safekids. Read more about boating safety at www.augustafamily.com.
T
The Family YMCA’s Team Lean competition concluded on Saturday April 18 at the Downtown Augusta Family YMCA. Almost 1,400 participants competed in this year’s competition, including teams from local schools, churches and businesses. Winning the school category (pictured here) for the second year in a row is Cedar Ridge Elementary School. Here’s a complete list of the winners:
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$PVHIMBO "OESFX ,OPY +S BOE 1FUFS &WBOT The Chubbs TU 1MBDF 'FNBMF 5FBN 4IVXBZOF +JNQFSTPO 3BTIBOEB +JNQFSTPO .POJRVF 4UBQMFT BOE 5SB DZ 8FTU %JWB 'JU TU 1MBDF $PFE 5FBN .ZSPO /FXUPO &WFMZO /FX UPO %POBME $BUMFUU BOE "OHFMJDB $BUMFUU #FBTU 4DIPPM 5FBN $FEBS 3JEHF &MFNFOUBSZ CBDL to-back winners) $IVSDI 5FBN 8SFOT $IVSDI PG (PE $PSQPSBUF $VQ $IBMMFOHF "VHVTUB .FUSP Credit Union (back-to-back winners)
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e 2015 May/Jun SUN
FUN IN THE SUMMER E DOING MOR DADS ARE NURSING SPIRIT OF ANNUAL SECTION SPECIAL
Register To Win! Family A AUGUST
e a z i n m a g
FRESH FACES
ikes Look Al rine and
rs: Cathe
Contest Winne Look Alike Parent-Childon of Grovetown. Cayla Johns
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!
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Girl
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GO
KNOW A MOM who deserves a “Go Girl!� (see page 54) in an upcoming issue of Augusta Family Magazine? Submit her on the contest page of our website.
...Recipes... ...Grilling Pointers... ...Rubs & Sauces... ...Grill Timer...
! c i t s a T AppWeberâs On the Grill
IF YOU LOVE TO GRILL OR BARBECUE, YOU ARE GOING TO LOVE THIS APP which features over 300 triple-tested classic Weber recipes that are sure to get you fired up to get out and grill. Tag your favorites or create and share a master grilling list for your grilling recipes that you can take with you. The app allows you to learn essential grilling techniques to take your skills to the next level. Thereâs also a grill timer right in the app. Available for $4.99 from itunes. Requires iOS 6.1 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad and iPod touch and optimized for iPhone 5.
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eating well with kim by Kim Beavers, MS, RD, LD, CDE and Melanie Wells, Dietetic Intern
April Showers Bring May...Strawberries? Strawberry Salad With Caramelized Almonds
This is a delightful mixture of flavors—sure to be a family favorite. ĂĹş cup slivered almonds 2 tablespoons sugar 10 ounces lettuce or mixed greens (1 bag or about 6 cups) 1 cup chopped English cucumber (about ĂË) 2 cups strawberries, hulled and quartered ĂĹş cup red onion chopped 4 tablespoons fat-free or light poppy seed dressing
E
veryone has heard the saying, “April showers bring May flowers.� However, did you know that strawberries are one of those flowers? That’s right! The strawberry is actually part of the rose family because of the characterized flower and five separate petals on the plant. We are so fortunate here in the CSRA as we have local strawberries available to us each year! There is a lot of energy around eating locally, reducing the food mile and helping out the environment so berry season is a perfect time of the year to get on that bandwagon. There are two local strawberry farms that offer a U-Pick options Gurosik’s Berry Plantation (http://www.gurosiksberryplantation.com/) and Wagon Barn Market in Keysville, Ga., (check them out on Facebook). Strawberries can be picked or purchased already picked from April through July 4 depending on availability. Picking strawberries with the family is a great way to support the local farmers and have some fun with your kids. To further peak your interest in buying strawberries this spring and summer, you should know
that strawberries not only taste amazing, they are low in calories, high in fiber and are packed with antioxidants. One cup of strawberries contains 50 calories, 3 grams of fiber and provides 100 percent of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of vitamin C for adults. Strawberries also contain other important nutrients like manganese, iodine, potassium and folate. Strawberries are most commonly eaten out of hand after a good rinse. However, if you add a little melted dark chocolate over the top it turns a delicious strawberries into a decadent treat. Here are a couple more ideas to have you eating even more berries this year. r .BLF B QBSGBJU XJUI MPX GBU ZPHVSU BOE IPNFmade or low fat granola. r 8IJQ VQ B TUSBXCFSSZ TNPPUIJF VTJOH JDF low-fat yogurt or low-fat milk and even some spinach. If you want to add some more protein to this drink, add 1 tablespoon of peanut butter and make it a PB&J smoothie. r *O UIF NPSOJOH BEE TUSBXCFSSJFT UP ZPVS QBOcakes, cereal or waffles to get your day off to a healthy start. r 4USBXCFSSJFT BSF BMTP XPOEFSGVM PO B TBMBEÇ as in the recipe on the right.
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To caramelize almonds: Add almonds and sugar to a non-stick skillet and cook over medium heat until golden brown. Stir the almonds and sugar and watch them closely to avoid burning. Cool on wax or parchment paper. Once cool, break into pieces and reserve until ready to serve. Place the lettuce or greens in a large bowl and add dressing. Toss to combine. Add cucumber, strawberries and onions and then toss again (tossing the salad with the dressing evenly disperses the dressing over all the leaves). Serve on a large platter or on individual plates. Top with almonds just before serving and enjoy! Yield: 6 servings Nutrient breakdown: Calories 83, Fat 2.5g (1.5g
mono. fat, 0g sat. fat); Cholesterol 0mg, Sodium 27mg, Carbohydrate 14g, Fiber 2g, Protein 2g. Nutrition Bonus: 60% DV Vitamin C, 10% Vitamin A. 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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doctor dad
?
by J. Ron Eaker, M.D.
A
Fitness Monitors: Fantastic or Fraud?
close scrutiny of wrists today no longer reveals the ubiquitous âLive Strongâ or âWWJDâ bracelets but an array of bands collectively known as activity trackers. Less a political statement or charity banner, these wearable technology frontrunners monitor everything from steps taken to sleep behavior. The question that any cynical consumer and fitness fan should ask is, âDo the darn things really contribute to health?â In an attempt to separate the wheat from the circum-wristed chaff, I researched what real studies revealed, as opposed to anecdotal stories of massive weight loss and miraculous fitness fantasies. Their names are as fanciful as their lack of fashion sense: Fitbit Force, Nike Fuel, Jaw-bone Up24, Fitbug Orb and Misfit Shine, just to name a few. They measure steps, heart rate, skin temperature, perspiration, calories, distance, posture, weight, blood pressure, time asleep and even balance. Iâm glad these were not available when I was going through puberty as every one of these things were off the scale whenever Betty Sue Kapolski walked by me in grade school. Nevertheless, the conglomeration of data stalked by these devices can be downloaded to your personal file in the cyber-Cloud and you can pull up exactly how many steps you took on March 22, 2015, and whether or not you sweated like a Jamaican waterfall while doing it. While this information may be titillating and a fulfillment of your greatest obsessive/compulsive tendencies, does it really make you healthier?
Define âWorkâ For those with the attention span of a marmoset
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and donât want to read this whole article, spoiler alert: the answer is a resounding âŚmaybe. Like President Clinton made so obvious, you have to define what âisâ is. In other words, what does âworkâ mean? If you mean everyone with a fitness band will gain in fitness, then the answer is no. If you mean fitness bands can increase awareness and motivation, then yes. And it turns out that motivation is the key. We all know what to do to get fit or lose weight. What we often lack is the motivation. Here is where most of the activity monitors shine. They are a pulsating, bright reminder that we need to get off âthe couch of doomâ and shake our bootyâŚoften. It turns out that how accurate a device is, or even what it measures, is not as important as the fact that it is measuring something and giving you feedback. In fact, most studies illustrating this point come from the use of low-tech pedometers that have been around for years. These primitive step counters give you a single readout, steps taken, and are notoriously inaccurate, but researchers have determined that it doesnât matter if your focus is on fitness. Having something that is measurable and serves to motivate you to plan, evaluate and execute is where the value lies.
Worth the Cost? So why pay $100-150 for a glorified pedometer, which you can get for $10? Many experts ask the same question. Catrine Tudor-Locke, director of the Walking Behavior Laboratory at Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Baton Rouge, La., has stated, âWe find that a low-tech pedometer with a battery that lasts three years changes behavior just as much as any
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of these fancy devices that you have to charge more often and connect to download.â The reason is pedometers are for nerds and fitness trackers are trendyâand celebrities wear them. Granted there is some really neat data that you can get from these devices, and I donât mean to downplay their coolness, but as far as how they workâand they doâit is no different than a cheap pedometer. It is all about the change in behavior, and that goes back to motivation. David Pogue, writing in Scientific American puts it succinctly, âThese devices are succeeding not because of their scientific qualities but because of their motivational ones. We all know we should move more and sleep betterâbut with slow decline, most of us donât bother. What the fitness bands do is to keep these issues front-of-mind. There it is, every time you turn on your phone: the latest stats on your progress. Most also show the results of friends who wear the same brand; itâs fitness through humiliation. In other words, the accuracy really makes little difference; the point is to keep us aware, to quantify our efforts.â Even the manufacturers acknowledge this. Fitbit spokeswoman Laura Emery says, âUltimately the success of our products comes from empowering users to accurately see their overall health and fitness trends over time.â So do these fitness bands work? Yes, they can motivate, educate and stimulate a person to be more active. But in the end, you still have to take responsibility and âJust Do Itâ. v Dr. Eaker is an Augusta Ob/GYN and author. He and his wife, Susan, have two daughters in college.
Summer Camp
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smartMom’sguide by Cammie Jones
Suiting Up! What
You Nee d
t To Have on Hand for Summer Fun in
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t’s that time of the year again—the beach, the pool, the lake—they are all calling your name. As you get ready for the hot sunny days, you need to have some key items on hand to make the most of those your lazy summer. I found some interesting “must haves� that I will help make this summer a fun, safe and organized one.
1. Beach Bag
he Sun!
so many types in the stores today. One pieces, two pieces, tanLJOJT TLJSU CPUUPNT CPZ TIPSUT TXJN ESFTTFT FUD * TVHHFTU ÄĹSTU EFUFSNJOJOH XIJDI TUZMF XPSLT CFTU GPS ZPV ĹĹ˝FO BMMPUUJOH BO hour or two to shop just for suits. Drink a little caffeine before ZPV IFBE PVU UIF EPPS BOE CF JO UIF SJHIU GSBNF PG NJOE UP ÄĹOE that perfect suit. 5XP DSJUFSJB GPS UIF QFSGFDU TVJU *U ÄĹUT DPSSFDUMZ BOE :PV BSF DPNGPSUBCMF JO JU 4PVOET NVDI FBTJFS UIBO JU BDUVBMMZ JT CVU PODF ZPV ÄĹOE UIBU QFSGFDU CBUIJOH TVJU ZPV TIPVME CF TFU
I don’t know about you, but my beach bag is almost equivalent to my baby bag when my girls were young. IT MUST HAVE EVERYTHING I MAY POSSIBLY NEED IN IT! I prefer a vinyl bag with long shoulder straps for ease of carrying and cleaning. Here are some items in my personal beach tote:
3. Comfy Flip Flops
I have a favorite pair of flops that travel with me everywhere I go. They are well worn in, and I put them up there PO B QFEFTUBM XJUI NZ GBWPSJUF SVOOJOH TIPFT 'JOE UIF CSBOE r 4VOTDSFFO LJET SFHVMBS GBDF FUD JO MBSHF SFTFBMBCMF QMBTUJD that works for you and stick with them, season to season. Easy bags in case of leaks to throw in a bag, this versatile footwear is perfect for those r -JQ #BMN XJUI 41'ÇUIFSF JT OPUIJOH XPSTF UIFO CVSOU MJQT hot days. r (VN (PCTUPQQFSTÇGPS XIFO ZPV BSF IBWJOH B TVHBS MPX NPment 4. Sunscreen & More Sunscreen r " HPPE CFBDI CPPL r ĹĹ˝F MBUFTU NBHB[JOFTÇCPUI iUSBTIu BOE EFDPSBUJOH DPPLJOH ĹĹ˝F $%$ TBZT UIBU ZPV OFFE UP VTF TVOTDSFFO XJUI BO 41' types TVO QSPUFDUJWF GBDUPS PG PS IJHIFS XJUI CPUI 67" BOE 67# r ,PP[JFT protection. Sunscreen wears off, so apply it again if you stay out r 'MJQ ÄŤPQTÇGPS XIFO UIF TBOE PS DPODSFUF HFUT UPP IPU UP XBML PO in the sun for more than two hours and after you swim or do r 5PXFM UIJOHT UIBU NBLF ZPV TXFBU BEWJTFT UIF $%$ r .POFZ PDDBTJPOBMMZ
"MTP DIFDL UIF TVOTDSFFO T FYQJSBUJPO EBUF 4VOTDSFFO r $PWFSVQ XJUIPVU BO FYQJSBUJPO EBUF IBT B TIFMG MJGF PG OP NPSF UIBO UISFF r 1IPOFÇJO B XBUFSQSPPG CBH GPS QSPUFDUJPO ZFBST CVU JUT TIFMG MJGF JT TIPSUFS JG JU IBT CFFO FYQPTFE UP IJHI r 8JSFMFTT TQFBLFS XJUI FYUSB CBUUFSJFT GPS ZPVS QFSTPOBM UVOFT temperatures. I usually pull out my coveted beach bag in the spring and toss all the old sunscreen to make room for new. 2. The Perfect Bathing Suit Because it can get pricey, I try to start purchasing our favorite brands when I see them on sale so that it’s not such a big blow ĹĹ˝JT JT QSPCBCMZ UIF NPTU EJĂ“DVMU UIJOH UP ÄĹOE ĹĹ˝FSF BSF to the budget all at once.
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smartMomâsguide 5. Sunglasses Sunglasses are a must-have and go along with sun protectionâbut for the eyes, according to mom. me on Zulily.com. Protective eyewear is essential if you want your peeps to look their best. Plus, today it is easier than ever to find stylish shades that donât break the bank.
6. The Maxi Dress This may just be me, but I love a maxi dress. Itâs easy to throw on, can be dressed down or up as needed and it travels easily without the need for an iron. One of my quotes is that it can be a ânight to day, day to nightâ piece because it is both versatile and comfortable for day or evening events.
7. Sun Hat & Hair Protection Again, protection from the sun is a must, especially for your face and even for your hair.
As much as we love the sun, it can do damage if you are out for extended periods of time. A large floppy hat can shield both your face and your hair from sun damage. Also, make sure you use hair products with SPF such as shampoos, conditioners, hair gels, styling treatments, etc. âUse extra moisturizing products to keep your hair from drying out,â says Sandi Arensman, editorial stylist and master hair colorist. Wear your hair in a long braid or casual âup doâ to protect it from the elements. Dampening your hair and wearing a masque on it can help keep it from drying out as well.
8. A Good Beach Read Check out the latest best sellers or pick the brain of an avid reader to find a few books to read this summer. Donât leave out the kids. Go online to find the top reads for kids depending on ageâScholastic puts a list on its website and Iâve even seen an Oprah list for children.
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9. First Aid Kit You can pack just a few essential items in a small bag that can go from car to beach bag to purse. Include bug spray, adhesive bandages and some type of first aid cream. Also, donât forget the ibuprofen for both adults and children. Once you get set up at the beach or pool, you wonât have to pack it up in a hurry if the ailmentâs fix is right there in your mini first aid kit.
10. A Laid Back Attitude Letâs face it, that first week when the kids are home from school can be a little testy. The routine of the past nine months is over and everyone is trying to figure out how to be at home with each other. Chill out, and let the day unfold. Once you get into that laid back state of mind and have made sure you have the above essentials ready to go, you are destined to have a summer of fun! v Cammie Jones is an Augusta freelance writer and mother of three.
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Look
W
e sought a way to highlight local families in honor of Motherâs and Fatherâs days and thought a contest was the perfect way do it. So, over the past few months we asked parents in the CSRA, âDo you and your child look just alike?â And, the response to our first ParentChild Look Alike Contest was overwhelming. More than 100 families entered the contest and now weâre unveiling the winners. This was a tough decision, as youâll see over the next few pages which feature our runners up. And the winners are...drumroll please...Catherine and Cayla Johnson of Grovetown. Enjoy checking out our runners up and then check out all of the entries we received at www.augustafamily.com. (If you submitted a photo and it doesnât appear on our website, please email the photo and your names, ages and city to karin.calloway@augustafamily.com so we can include it with all of the entries.)
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Alikes First runners up were both fatherdaughter look alikes. Pictured right are Anthony Holmes, Jr., and his daughter, 5-year-old Aaliyah. Pictured above are Roland Moreno, 47, and his daughter Montana, 17.
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1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
1
Thomas Cox, Sr., of Martinez, and his son Thomas, Jr., 11. Nancy Young, of Martinez, and her son Whit Morgan, 24. Michelle Tanksley, of Evans, and daughter Jordan, 11. Beth Blackwell, of Martinez, and her son William, 2. Heath Clark, of Thomson, Ga., and his son Luke, 3. Tomeka Few, of Martinez, and her daughter Inkeria Harris, 18. Chandler Durrance, of Graniteville, S.C., and son Carter, 1.
3
2
6 5
7
4
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10 9 11 13 12
8. 9. 10. 11.
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12. 13. 14.
15
15.
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Jason Kiser, of North Augusta, and his son Nathaniel, 19, months. Kelli Motes, of Grovetown, and her son Axton, 3. Ronnie Prentice and her daughter Cheyenne, 12. Mark Jackson, of Martinez, and his son Hunter, 5. Jacob Lambert, of North Augusta, and his son Charlie, 8. Tommy Meador, of North Augusta, and his son Luke, 8. Roderick Thomas, Sr., of Evans, and his son Roderick, Jr., 5. Deidra Johnson and her son Evan, 15, and her daughter, Bailie, 12.
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Moms, Dads & Grads
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Matter By Lucy Adams
ack when my family was young, my husband and I and our freshly hatched brood went on a vacation with another couple who had children that matched up age-wise with ours. The other mom was one of those women who was on top of everything at all times. The routine was rigid. The rigor of her workload, especially for a vacation, was grueling, to the point that I wondered what was wrong with me. Should I be killing myself like this, too? Heck, I was happy to pass off a poopy diaper change to my husband, regardless of whether he grumbled about it. I was happy to delay lunch if we were having fun and caught up in the moment together. I was happy to take turns tucking in the kids at night, even though their dad refused to read Goodnight Moon one more time. Then one afternoon, that mother and I sat on the beach watching the little ones splash in the shallow breaking waves. No one could hear us talking over the din of the surf and wind, and she confided in me that she was exhausted. She complained that her husband never helped. When I queried whether she ever actually asked for help, she said that sometimes she did, but her husband would sigh and act irritated. u
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When I suggested that she back off and let him follow through with her request anyway, she complained that she wanted him to want to do it. Plus, the things he did do on occasion, such as bathe the children or put food on their plates, he did wrong. It was easier if she just did it herself. âBut youâre exhausted,â I reminded her, to point out that maybe it wasnât easier. And I couldnât imagine how it made her husband feel to experience day-in-and-day-out her lack of confidence in his ability to care for his family, whether the task was one he wanted to do or not. I understood why he sighed. She expected him to engage, but, when he did, she undermined him. âHereâs a little secret about men: if they donât feel a sense of confidence about the work they do, they often feel ashamed,â says Dr. Will Courtenay, PhD, a psychotherapist and leading expert on masculinity (http://www.themensdoc.com). âAnd, if a man feels ashamed or embarrassed about how heâs performing at work, heâll avoid it.â Dad is more than just a contributor to conception. Mom wasnât meant to do it all on her own, otherwise she would reproduce asexually, like a worm. Thatâs not how the human family is designed, and fathers have an important role. âWe live in a culture in which it takes two parents to manage a family and a home,â says Lacole Sneed, LCSW, of Family Counseling Center of the CSRA. âSome women donât think a kid needs a dad.â
Why do women do it?
Why Dad Matters A preponderance of evidence refutes that misconception. Dr. Courtenay says, âResearch shows all kinds of benefits for children when fathers are involved in their lives. These kids do better socially, behaviorally, psychologically mazing. It shows them love.â
It is often the result of pent-up frustration and anger on the part of the wife, who feels as though her spouse does not support her, listen to her, perhaps neglects her needs and wants or perhaps she is just disappointed with her life in general and he is a good target.
The Changing Role of Dad
It is a bad habit of speaking negatively when unhappy or frustrated. Women may be looking for allies or for attention or just an outlet for their unhappiness.
Over the last several decades, fathers have transitioned from sole breadwinner to sharing with their wives the load of generating income for the family. While Dr. Courtenay notes that for many men the notion of being the primary economic provider is entrenched in their identity, Sneed says she has seen an increase in stay-at-home dads as more women develop careers. Though both observations are accurate, two incomes sustain the overwhelming majority of families.
HUSBAND Bashing
So if Dad isnât the primary provider for his family anymore, what is his purpose? Dr. Courtenay cites survey data indicating that for 99 percent of dads, fatherhood is an important part of their identity. As mothers have moved into the workforce, dads have taken on more housekeeping and child-rearing tasks. Dr. Courtenay says, âSince 1965, fathers have nearly tripled the amount of time they spend with their kids. But nearly half (46 percent) still feel like theyâre not spending enough time with their children.â This is a far cry from the traditional father who came home from work, ate dinner and read the paper.
What It Is, Why Itâs Harmful and How To Stop
In Support of Fatherhood
Toni Coleman, LCSW, CMC, a McClean, Va., psychotherapist and relationship coach (http://www.consum-mate.com), has this to say:
âMothers have a huge influence over how involved fathers are with their kids. Their attitudes are a significant predictor of fathersâ involvement,â says Dr. Courtenay. Dads view their role through the eyes of their partner. If the partner diminishes his status, he will acquiesce. If the mother of his children emphasizes his position, he will be an active father. âFathers play such an important role in the lives of their children,â says Sneed.
What is husband bashing? Husband bashing is criticizing oneâs spouse to friends, family, neighbors, co-workers and even children.
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Why is it harmful? What men need most from women is respect and appreciation. When they are bashed, they get neither. Without that validation and caring from their wives they often tune out more, withdraw, seek out women who flatter them and show appreciation, in general are at greater risk for affairs. It is also bad for the woman. She canât feel very good about herself when she has nothing good to say about her spouse. Others will lose respect for her as well and take the side of her spouse. It is very bad for children who may join in, turn off to both parents, form very negative attitudes about marriage and/or feel very badly for their Dad and resentful towards their Mom.
âTheyâre as equally important as the mother. We need to place value on both.â But a dad has to believe he is a competent father; otherwise, heâs less likely to be involved with his children. Dr. Courtenay reminds women, âIf a mom tends to think that her home is her hive, and sheâs the queen bee, then sheâs got to realize thatâwhether she likes it or notâ sheâll be pushing the worker drone back to the office. And, if she does that, we know that that father will definitely become less involved with the kids over time.â To increase or encourage a dadâs connection with his children, Mom needs to desire that involvement, express confidence in the fatherâs abilities and demonstrate that desire and confidence by relinquishing some responsibilities to Dad. Shifting Momâs Mindset Women possess the power to either reduce the role of dad to that of the guy who goes to the office during the week and cuts the grass on the weekends or to elevate a fatherâs role to that of advisor, helper, caregiver, bedtime storyteller, carpool driver and safe harbor for a child in any storm. A few tips offered by Dr. Courtenay give Moms tools for encouraging Dads: Evolve your attitudes. Women with traditional ideas about parenting have husbands and partners who are less involved with their children. With the exception of giving birth and breast feeding, fathers are capable of doing everything mothers can. Invite Dad to engage. An invitation is different from a demand. An invitation evokes warmth and welcome. He may see the home as your domain, and you may be doing or saying things to reinforce that perspective. Most men will hesitate to
insert themselves, so, if you want him to get involved, invite him. Quit the criticism, especially in front of his offspring. Dad wonât do it your way. Heâs a separate individual with his own ideas and insights. Give him room to develop his unique relationship with his children. Children donât mind the differences in their parentsâ approaches to demonstrating love. Communicate without nagging. Nagging creates tension in a home. It doesnât get a guy moving as much as it gets him disengaged. Apply positive feedback, especially in front of his offspring. Men take pride in their work, including the work of caring for children. Recognition of a job well done feels so satisfying. Focus less on shortcomings and more on successes. Believe in him. Grown men donât need to be mothered and micromanaged. Fatherhood is his job to do. Demonstrate confidence in him by backing off and allowing him to get the job done in the way that he sees is best. 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.
How can women break the habit? I encourage women to practice gratitude. Every morning they sit down and come up with one or two things that are good and positive in their life, reflect on them for a few minutes and again several more times throughout the day. I also ask them to say something positive to their spouse upon awakening and several more times throughout the day. Finding small things to say thank you for, acknowledging something he has contributed to making her life or the day a little better, even something small, will go a long way towards helping them make a turn in a more positive direction. Every time she opens her mouth to say something negative, she should quickly stop herself and then either not say anything or find something positive to say instead.
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NURSES Ethical Practice, Quality Care Articles by Lucy Adams Article Photography by John Harpring www.augustafamily.com
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2014 NURSE OF THE YEAR
A
Humbled by the Call to Nursing s a nurse clinician in pediatric pulmonology and the co-
Those who know her, however, find the recognition no astonishment. McKeen has
ordinator of the pediatric Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Center at
spent her 21-year nursing career at Georgia Regents University, committing the last 11
Childrenâs Hospital of Georgia, Amy McKeen, RN, puts
years to pediatric pulmonology. While serving as case manager for over 100 patients, Mc-
her all into caring for her young patients and support-
Keen also initiates and coordinates education programs through the CF Center. She says,
ing their families. Still, she was surprised to hear her
âI really enjoy the teaching aspect of working at an academic institution.â By coordinat-
name announced as the 2014 Nurse of the Year
ing the annual CF information day, distributing a quarterly newsletter, helping establish
for the CSRA Chapter of the Georgia Nurses
a support group for parents of infants with CF and putting together resource notebooks
Association. âI was completely shocked,â she
for parents, she increases the knowledge and understanding of Cystic Fibrosis for her
says. âIt truly was unexpected. I remember
patientsâ families. Furthermore, her participation in research activities focused on Cystic
saying, âIf I thought I was going to win I
Fibrosis expands the knowledge base of the medical community.
would have dressed up.ââ In fact, she
âThere has never been any doubt that pediatrics was where I needed to work,â Mc-
thought her chances so slim that she
Keen says. But she almost missed her calling to nursing when she enrolled at The Uni-
attended the Spirit of Nursing award
versity of Georgia as a pre-med student with her heart set on becoming a pediatric psy-
ceremony without her husband
chiatrist. When her mother fell ill with a long recovery ahead, McKeen withdrew from
and three children.
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UGA and returned to Augusta. Interacting with the nurses who cared for her mother revealed the direction she needed to take. âThe nurses who took care of my mom were
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2015 Nominees for Nurse of the Year STAFF NURSE Elizabeth Bookard
University Hospital
Lashonda Callahan
Eisenhower Army Medical Center
Gaye Clark
University Hospital
Cara Collins
Georgia Regents Medical Center
Inmaculada Davis
Eisenhower Army Medical Center
Nancy Green
Georgia Regents Medical Center
Angie Hickey
Eisenhower Army Medical Center
Nicole Williams
VA Medical Center
NURSE ADMINISTRATOR Dr. Thayer McGahee
2014 Nurse of the Year Amy McKeen, RN, is pictured at left with patient Kayla George. McKeen works as a nurse clinician in pediatric pulmonology and is the coordinator for the pediatric Cystic Fibrosis Center at Childrenâs Hospital of Georgia.
invested in her recovery. They took care of not just my momâs medical needs but all of her
USCA School of Nursing
NURSE MANAGER Tishon Adams
VA Medical Center
Laura Lee Cooper
Christ Community Health Services
Dorothy Ann Evans
Eisenhower Army Medical Center
Barbara Molini (x2)
University Hospital
Bonnie Weeks
University Hospital
needs. They helped to keep us motived and celebrate small successes. I knew that nursing was where God was calling me to use my talents,â McKeen remembers. Some days, however, she must set aside her drive to heal the physical person in order
ADVANCED PRACTICE NURSE
to address the topic of death with her patients and their families. A tremendous treatment
Major James Ryals
Eisenhower Army Medical Center
burden accompanies a chronic illness like Cystic Fibrosis and not every patient wishes
Erin Wilder
VA Medical Center
to sustain it. Several years ago, when one of her adolescent patients refused a lung transplant evaluation, it was a pivotal point in her career. She transitioned from avoiding grief powerful about a parent being a champion for his childâs last wishes, even if it goes against
NURSE EDUCATOR/RESEARCHER/CLINICAL NURSE LEADER
what the medical community and social groups feel to be appropriate.â Since that experi-
Crystal Glover
VA Medical Center
ence, McKeen says she has learned to talk less and listen more. She creates a comfortable
Kevin Lulham
University Hospital
environment in which patients and their families can speak openly about difficult issues.
Dr. Amber McCall
Georgia Regents University
Dr. Joyce Pompey
USCA School of Nursing
take all of the credit. I work with a great multidisciplinary team that helps make me
Maria Rivera
Eisenhower Army
look good.â Yet, sheâs pleased with the heightened public awareness of Cystic Fibrosis that
Susan Tuten
University Hospital
to embracing and celebrating life, no matter how short. She says, âThere is something
With humility, she says, âWinning the award was certainly an honor, but I cannot
came with winning Nurse of the Year. It has invigorated interest and discussion in the community. âPeople need to know that CF has changed. Patients are living longer and more productive lives. We expect that there will be more adult patients than pediatric
COMMUNITY HEALTH NURSE
patients in the near future. That is amazing news,â says McKeen, who plans to continue
Nancy Wates
VA Medical Center
advocating for this population for years to come. u www.augustafamily.com
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Ethical Practice, Quality Care Nurses are on the front lines of educating patients and families, explaining procedures, answering questions, providing comfort and giving direct assistance in many forms.
S
ince nurses were first added in 1999 to the Gallup Poll of most trusted professions, they have ranked at the top of the list every
year except 2001, when firefightersâ 9/11 heroism vaulted them to the number one spot. In the 2014 poll, 80 percent of respondents ranked nurses as âvery highâ or âhighâ in honesty and ethics. The source of this overwhelming confidence in nurses is a com-
plex convergence of many things, including the sense of a nurseâs enthusiasm for her position. âItâs so important that people enter the medical field with a passion for it. The care and the love you
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Combine the documented hours of direct patient care, the indirect effects of conscientiousness to that care, the specialized knowledge required to impart it and the ability to bridge the distance between doctor and patient, and these ingredients result in creating the image of nurse as exceptionally honest and ethical.
have for the profession is really seen,� says Jackie Williamson, the charge nurse on the 25bed skilled care unit for veterans in long-term and hospice care at the uptown division of the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center on Wrightsboro Road. In addition to the outward expression of enthusiasm for the profession, a multiplicity of factors fuels persistent trust in nurses. Illness in and of itself, for one thing, increases a person’s perceived and real vulnerability. Pain or discomfort, physiological changes, diminished control over one’s physical func-
Reflection of Nursing Spirit Award Winners The following registered nurses have been selected by their workplace peers as the 2015 Spirit of Nursing Award recipients. These professionals have demonstrated effective quality nursing practice in a positive manner within the healthcare system to impact healthcare outcomes. The award criteria states that these individuals:
tions, uncertainty about outcomes and insecurity about what will happen next put a person at the mercy of the hands that help. A nurse walks the fine line of treating the body, while at the same time respecting the person in it as an autonomous individual with the right to make decisions about his or her care, including the right to refuse it. In addition, nurses spend a greater amount of time with patients and their families than do other caregivers. “In acute care, nurses are the constant that a patient sees. In such a vulnerable situation, patients will open up to nurses,� says Lisa Simmons, MSN, RN, senior instructor in the University of South Carolina Aiken School of Nursing. Nurses are on the front lines of educating patients and families, explaining procedures, answering questions, providing comfort and giving direct assistance in many forms. As a relationship develops, patients and families confide in the nurse who becomes a liaison between the patient and the doctor and an advocate for the patient’s interests. The nurse is usually the first caregiver to notice a change in the patient’s condition or to learn of the family’s concerns about treatment and prognosis. The nurse’s scope of contact and influence touches many more people than just the ones in her care—and for each nurse there are many at any given time.
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Combine the documented hours of direct patient care, the indirect effects of conscientiousness to that care, the specialized knowledge required to impart it and the ability to bridge the distance between doctor and patient, and these ingredients result in creating the image of nurse as exceptionally honest and ethical. To that end, the American Nurses Association (ANA) has declared 2015 “The Year of Ethics.� This declaration coincides with the Gallup Poll results from December 2014 and the January 1 release of the new ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses with Interpretive Statements.
ETHICS IN THE NURSING CLASSROOM The Gallup Poll results are a flattering accolade. Yet, at the same time, America’s faith and trust in nurses imposes a weighty responsibility. A code of ethics that forms a social
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PENNY DYALS Amedisys Home Health
KIM STUDDARD Amedisys Home Health
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Reflection of Nursing Spirit Award Winners
ELLEN PROVEAUX
CYNTHIA WILLIAMS
American Holistic Nurses Association
Charlie Norwood Veterans Hospital
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NICOLE WILLIAMS
SANDRA BAILEY
STEPHANIE FIELDS
Charlie Norwood Veterans Hospital
Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc.
Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc.
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DANNA LEE Christ Community Health Services
contract between a profession and society and serves as a basis for sound judgments makes the weight not only bearable, but enjoyable. It enables nurses, their co-workers, their patients and the public to benefit to the highest degree possible. In an industry like healthcare in which technology and research rapidly lead to new frontiers in patient care, ethical dilemmas and debates will always present themselves. An agreed upon code of ethics supplies strategies and frameworks for problem-solving in the grey areas so that nurses can focus on quality care. Although the inclusion of ethics modules in nursing education curriculums almost vanished in the mid twentieth century, the topic has gained a place again in the classroom. Students are exposed to the types of ethical predicaments they may face in the workplace, dilemmas that have no single correct answer. Simmons, who teaches nursing ethics and law at USC Aiken, says, âNursing is so much more than just tasks. We constantly use critical thinking skills.â Common ethical dilemmas encountered by nurses include weighing the merits of a medical procedure against its inherent risks, considering whether a patient should or should not have the freedom to make choices that may harm his health or hurt his recovery, discerning how much truth a patient can handle or whether deception, even if the intention is good, violates a patientâs right to be fully informed, and managing emotions in a situation that requires the nurse to respond in a manner contrary to personal religious or moral beliefs. âPart of this is teaching students to not be judgmental. They still have to provide excellent nursing care,â says Simmons. Using case studies and other teaching strategies, Simmons introduces her students to actual situations nurses deal with daily. She also schools them directly on the ANA Code of Ethics, as it is the standard of practice for nurses licensed in South Carolina.
1ST LT. ELISE HARKEY
MARIA RIVERA
GLORIA MOXLEY
Dwight D. Eisenhower Army Medical Center
Dwight D. Eisenhower Army Medical Center
GAPAN
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Reflection of Nursing Spirit Award Winners
RENEE FLIPPO
DR. AMBER MCCALL
GAIL CANTRELL
ANN GADIA
TAMMY HARRIS
DAVID HIGHSMITH
Georgia Regents University College of Nursing
Georgia Regents University College of Nursing
Georgia Regents University Medical Center
Georgia Regents University Medical Center
Georgia Regents University Medical Center
Georgia Regents University Medical Center
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She says, âNursing students need to understand that the Code of Ethics provides a succinct statement of the ethical values, obligations and duties of every person who enters the nursing profession.â Itâs non-negotiable. Though the majority of laypeople are unaware of its existence or its provisions, Gallup Poll results demonstrate that they are aware that nurses practice by high standards as a whole. Simmons educates students in the elements of ethical practice: honoring patient autonomy, beneficence (doing good), justice, voracity (truthfulness), confidentiality, non-maleficence (doing no harm) and integrity. âThis isnât all just common sense,â Simmons says, which is why she also instructs her nursing students in the process of using ethical standards to solve real life problems.
ETHICS IN PRACTICE A nurse never attends to a patient in vacuum. In addition to caring for several patients, he or she also supports the each patientâs family and other medical staff. The nurse has to disentangle personal preferences and beliefs from those of the patient or the patientâs guardian. He or she must also make a stand for the patientâs desires when appropriate. For new nurses, this can be difficult. âThey graduate from nursing school ready to change the world,â Simmons says. âSometimes the people they care for donât want to be changed.â To render services in a nonjudgmental way that creates an environment of acceptance is the nurseâs duty. VA nurse Jackie Williamson agrees. Openly addressing the tough questions surrounding death and dying and how the answers affect patients, care providers and families keeps Williamson and her coworkers mindful their charge to do good and to do no harm. She acknowledges, âThe ethical dilemmas will be debated until the end of time,â which is why she frequently discusses ethical issues important to her patient population with an inter-disciplinary group. âI try to keep my team positive and open to communication,â she says. âThere are times when we have to advocate for (patientsâ) rights as veterans and for their care.â Nurses on this unit support patients and families coping with emotional end of life choices. For veterans and their
DONNA KOLB
KASEY MCGILL
YAKITA ROUSE
TRACI TALMAN
Georgia Regents University Medical Center
Georgia Regents University Medical Center
Georgia Regents University Medical Center
Georgia Regents University Medical Center
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Reflection of Nursing Spirit Award Winners
MCKENZIE VICK
DEANNA WILLIAMS
DR. AMBER MCCALL
Georgia Regents University Medical Center
DR. STEPHANIE WRIGHT
Georgia Regents University Medical Center
Sigma Theta Tau
Sigma Theta Tau
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DANIEL CICCIO
GAYE CLARK
University Hospital
University Hospital
families, Williamson and her team extend emotional support and educa-
purity and to practice my profession faithfully. I will abstain from what-
tion about what to expect, what can be done for patient comfort and the
ever is deleterious and mischievous, and will not take or knowingly ad-
wishes the patient has expressed in formal documentation. They explain
minister any harmful drug. I will do all in my power to maintain and
the pros and cons, costs and benefits, of each particular decision a patient
elevate the standard of my profession, and will hold in confidence all
or the patientâs assigned representative makes. Equally important is flex-
personal matters committed to my keeping and all family affairs com-
ibility. âEvery person has the right to change his or her mind,â says Williamson. Each veteranâs dignity is respectfully regarded from the moment of arrival until his or her service to country is celebrated in a final post-death flag ceremony on the unit. She also acknowledges that family dynamics can put nurses in awkward circumstances. Knowing the ANA Code of Ethics becomes a practical tool in serving the patientâs needs and communicating in an empathic, honest way with the family.
Patients donât necessarily interpret the behaviors or words of nurses in terms of ethics, but a nurseâs adherence to an ethical code affects the patient experience, making difďŹcult diagnoses easier to bear.
ing to my knowledge in the practice of my calling. With loyalty will I endeavor to aid the physician in his work, and devote myself to the welfare of those committed to my care. To Williamson, this pledge embodies the commitment to ethical practice and quality care.
FROM THE PATIENT PERSPECTIVE To be on the receiving side of nursing care, whether as a patient or as someone who loves that patient, can be a powerful experience. When
Williamson recalls the Florence Nightingale Pledge, a modified Hippocratic Oath, that she and her fellow nursing
Rhett Ransom arrived at The Good Samaritan House Dearing Health
school graduates took at their commencement: I solemnly pledge my-
Clinic with symptoms that indicated to family nurse practitioner Sandy
self before God and in the presence of this assembly, to pass my life in
Turner, EdD, FNP, that he may have a more serious problem than a little
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Reflection of Nursing Spirit Award Winners cough, Turner sprang into action. âBeing self-employed,â explains Ransom, âI have no health insurance or regular doctor.â Turner, determined to not let that be a barrier to diagnosis and treatment, made the phone calls that initiated the process of preliminary tests that ultimately indicated inoperable stage 4 lung cancer. Yet, because Turner acted so quickly and resolutely, calling upon her connections in the medical community, Ransom received care from an optimistic oncologist who TERRI CLIATT
REBECCA LOUISE FRAZIER
KIM HADDEN
University Hospital
University Hospital
University Hospital
designed a successful treatment protocol that ended with surgical removal of one lung following several weeks of radiation and chemo therapy to shrink the tumors. âSandy was a mentor to me throughout the process,â Ransom recounts. âEvery stop and every nurse along the way has been nothing short of phenomenal. Theyâve been confidential. Theyâve been efficient. Every nurse was extremely thorough. They were always checking to confirm I was the right patient receiving the right medicine.â Patients donât necessarily interpret the behaviors or words of nurses in terms of ethics, but a nurseâs adherence
KEVIN LULHAM
SYBIL MINTER
DOUG PUGH
University Hospital
University Hospital
University Hospital
to an ethical code affects the patient experience, making difficult diagnoses easier to bear. Ransom says, âIâve got the most profound respect for what they do, how much they do, how well they do it.â Lauren Redlund, whose son Marshall was born at 28 weeks gestation this past December and spent two months in the University Hospital NICU, concurs. âThe hardest thing I had to do was leave the hospital and not take him home,â she says. âIt was a roller coaster of emotions the first two to three weeks.â
KAREN RYANS
ROBYN SPULOCK
BONNIE WEEKS
University Hospital
University Hospital
University Hospital
For the first week, treatment protocol did not permit her to hold her baby. After that critical period passed, she and her husband were allowed to hold him once a day for 20 minutes. It wasnât until he was a month old that they could hold Marshall as much as they wanted. Even though Redlund is herself an RN on the University Hospital cardiac unit, she was not prepared for being on the opposite side of the patient bed. âBeing on the other side of things really put in perspective how stressed you feel when your family member is in the hospital,â she says. She says of the nurses who attended to Marshall, âThey always talked to
CAITLIN DELOACH University HospitalâThompson
COURTNEY ALLEN USC Aiken Student Nurses Association
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BETTY ABRAHAM SETTLES USC Aiken School of Nursing
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me. They always asked how I was doing. They respected the fact that I had the right to have these emotions.â
A nurse never attends to a patient in vacuum. In addition to caring for several patients, he or she also supports the each patientâs family and other medical staff. The nurse has to disentangle personal preferences and beliefs from those of the patient or the patientâs guardian.
Empathizing with Redlundâs anxiety and frustration, a particular
and parental decisions were accepted without rebuttal. At the same time,
nurse took time from her busy schedule one afternoon to talk with Red-
a high standard of care and professionalism pervaded every interaction.
lund one on one. She counseled Redlund that those feelings are common
Babies were referred to by their names. Parents were provided with prog-
for parents like her and advised that it was okay to grieve the normal
ress updates when they arrived for visits. Redlund says of the nurses, âYou
pregnancy and birth sheâd expected. This nurseâs compassionate interac-
can tell they love what they do.â
tion enabled Redlund to get through this challenging time. The constant
Ardent commitment to the role of nurse is the most visible aspect of
education doled out prepared Redlund and her husband for the day they
the profession. Williamson encourages her peers in the field, âAlways
would finally take Marshall home. âThe nurses felt like family in the
remember why you became a nurse. Be objective, and be open to othersâ
end,â says Redlund.
opinions. Always keep the patient first. You can make the quality of life
Of note, the nurses refrained from imposing their will on the parents
of your patient better with your knowledge and passion.â Patients and
of their patients. They respected parentsâ rights to choose what they felt
families in their most vulnerable moments open up to nurses and re-
was best for their baby and their family. Mothers who chose to bottle feed
ceive abundant understanding and compassion. Simmons believes that
werenât opposed by the nursing staff, nor were those who chose not to vac-
level of quality care results from ethical practice. The first does not exist
cinate their child. Procedures requiring parent approval were explained
without the second. v
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40 t "VHVTUB 'BNJMZ ] .BZ +VOF
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Summer Fun!
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inspirationstation by Mary Ashton Mills
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Strokes Kids Have Them, Too!
C
oncerns over having a healthy baby and child are on the forefront of many parent’s minds today. With so many milestones and checklists, it’s normal to worry that our children will be healthy enough to achieve each goal. We hear about pediatric cancer, chromosomal abnormalities, SIDS and many more health-related disorders and events, but stroke doesn’t regularly cross our minds when thinking about our children. Yes, pediatric stroke occurs in 11 out of every 100,000 children per year, according to the National Stroke Association. When someone has a stroke either the blood supply to the brain is interrupted or a blood vessel in the brain bursts causing blood to spill into the spaces around the brain cells. This short event can cause serious repercussions affecting development for years to come. Stroke can happen to unborn babies, newborns, children and teenagers in addition to adults and the elderly. While we would much rather be focused on our children’s happy times, enjoying each life achievement, it is important to recognize the stroke risk factors and warning signs and hope that having the knowledge
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and not needing it will apply to our own family.
An Unseen Stroke For Martinez resident Ashlyn Fox, mother of 8-year-old Hagen Fox, the warning signs were not early enough. Fox, a neonatal intensive care unit nurse for over 10 years, has seen her share of sick babies. When she gave birth to her son Hagen, it was apparent that something was wrong and she later learned he suffered a stroke in-utero. “When he was approximately seven hours old, he turned dusky in the nursery and was rushed to the NICU where he was placed on the ventilator. The following day he began having visible seizures, which led to a CT scan and MRI being done and it was determined that he’d had a stroke,� says Fox. After doctors at the University hospital NICU were able to diagnose the stroke, they treated him with medication. Early on, he was weaned from all medication and he has never missed a developmental milestone. He walked on his 1st birthday and has always been treated normally—just like his older sister. Hagen still at-
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{ inspirationstation tends occupational therapy to help him overcome a slight right-side weakness, but other than that there are no apparent signs that something happened before he took his first breath, while in the comfort and safety of his mother’s womb. Fox would like for others to know not to give up if their child receives a diagnosis similar to the one she and her son received eight years ago. “We were told he may never walk or talk or do anything on his own,� says Fox as she proudly reports of Hagen’s many sports accomplishments. “He plays basketball through UPWARD, soccer and football. He is our miracle!�
Risk Factors and Symptoms Since strokes not only occur in the elderly, it is crucial to know the warning signs and risk factors. Males, children under 2 years old and AfricanAmericans are at a greater risk for stroke. Some causes of stroke in children are different than the standard adult risk factors like high blood pressure and hardening of the arteries. Risk factors include: r r r r r r r r
$POHFOJUBM IFBSU EFGFDUT 4JDLMF DFMM EJTFBTF *NNVOF EJTPSEFST %JTFBTFT PG UIF BSUFSJFT "COPSNBM CMPPE DMPUUJOH )FBE PS OFDL USBVNB .BUFSOBM IJTUPSZ PG JOGFSUJMJUZ .BUFSOBM JOGFDUJPO JO UIF GMVJE TVSSPVOEJOH BO unborn baby r 1SFNBUVSF SVQUVSF PG NFNCSBOF EVSJOH pregnancy r 1SFHOBODZ SFMBUFE IJHI CMPPE QSFTTVSF JO UIF mother Knowing stroke symptoms can help you to identify a stroke in children. r 'PS OFXCPSOT BOE JOGBOUT TFJ[VSFT FYUSFNF sleepiness and using one side of the body more than the other can be warning signs. r "T DIJMESFO HFU PMEFS TFWFSF TVEEFO POTFU PG headaches, vomiting, numbness, sleepiness, EJ[[JOFTT BOE MPTT PG CBMBODF PS DPPSEJOBUJPO are symptoms. 1MFBTF OPUF $IJMESFO BSF HPJOH UP FYQFSJFODF headaches and vomiting at some point in their
lives, therefore we should exercise caution before running to the doctor if we notice one of these symptoms.
Treatment for Stroke Patients Lisa Rhodes, senior occupational therapist XJUI 1FEJBUSJD 3FIBCJMJUBUJPO BU $IJMESFO T )PTpital of Georgia says that treating all three disciplines—speech, occupational and physical therapy—provides patients with a more holistic healing method. First, she recommends treating the patient immediately following their discharge from UIF IPTQJUBM *O NBOZ DBTFT UIBU EPFTO U IBQQFO but the sooner they can begin, the better the results they will see. “We like to strike while the iron is hot,â€? says Rhodes. They work with all levels of stroke victims at Pediatric Rehabilitation. “Physical therapy helps with mobility concerns, occupational therapy addresses functional independence on daily activities and speech therapy treats the ability to verbally express and process language,â€? says Rhodes. Each patient’s level of deficit will be addressed and goals will be set. They will be evaluated at the six-month mark and they will see what goals were met, how the child compensates for their disability and they will continue to develop strategies for the child. Sometimes walking, talking and speaking are mastered, but simple skills like using a computer, operating a vending machine or activities that require other fine motor skills need to be taught. On a positive note, children who are victims of stroke are more likely to recover than adults because their brains are still developing and have the ability to recover better after injury. Though currently there is no stroke support group in Augusta, May is National Pediatric Stroke "XBSFOFTT .POUI *G ZPV BSF JOUFSFTUFE JO TUBSUJOH a local support group, please contact Ashlyn Fox at ashycott@comcast.net. Sometimes placing people together who have similar life experiences can be the CFTU TVQQPSU TZTUFN PG BMM *G ZPV XPVME MJLF NPSF information on pediatric stroke, visit Stroke.org. v Mary Ashton Mills lives in Augusta with her husband and two children. Her work has appeared in $IBSMFTUPO Magazine, ĹĹ˝F 1PTU BOE $PVSJFS and Augusta Family Magazine.
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calendar May/June 2015
Sesame Street Live—Make a New Friend Elmo, Grover, Abby Cadabby and their Sesame Street friends welcome Chamki, Grover’s friend from India, to Sesame Street. June 10 at 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.
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calendar SPECIAL EVENTS Ongoing. Summer Horse Camp: Tranquility Stables of Appling. Ages 6 and up. Weekly sessions, MondayâFriday 8a.m.â3 p.m. Each day builds on the skills learned the day before so by the end of the week have a camp full of confident riders ready to show off what they have learned at the awards show. Campers are to bring their own lunch each day along with a change of clothes and a bathing suit-just in case get a little wet or dirty! There are several rides per day which includes formal instruction, bareback balancing, and games on horseback. There are arts and crafts activities offered daily as well a horse shoeing clinic, A visit from a local vet, instruction on mucking stalls and much more. 5232 White Oak Rd. 813-7142456, Tranquilitystables05@yahoo.com. May 1. James Brown Block Party. In honor of James Brownâs birthday, a concert will be held on the grounds of the Augusta Museum of History. Featuring JAMP (James Brown Academy of Musik Pupils) and other special guests. 5-8 p.m. 706-7228454. May 1-2. Historic Augusta Downtown Loft Tour. Celebrate National Historic Preservation Month by taking an intimate look inside the historic buildings of downtown Augusta. All proceeds benefit the projects and programs of Historic Augusta. May 1, 6-9 p.m. May 2, noon-5 p.m. For tickets and more information, call 706-724-0436 or visit www.historicaugusta.org. May 1-2. The Little Roy and Lizzie Music Festival. Featuring some of the countryâs best bluegrass performers. Bring your lawn chairs. Food and craft vendors. Noon-10 p.m. Elijah Clark State Park. Lincolnton, Ga. For a full schedule call 706-864-7203 or visit www.adamsbluegrass.com. May 2. Derby Day. The Augusta Training Shopâs annual fundraiser and spring social event. Attendees will enjoy watching the Kentucky Derby live while sipping homemade mint juleps paired with Southern cuisine. Live entertainment, raffles, silent auction and hat contest. For tickets, call 706-738-1358. May 7, 14, 21 & 28, June 4, 11, 18 & 25. 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, childrenâs activities and chefs selling freshly prepared take-home foods. 4:30-7 p.m. On the grounds of the Columbia County Library. Visit www.evanstownefarmersmarket.com for more information. May 7. National Day of Prayer Service. A non-denominational worship and prayer service for our nation in honor of the annual National Day of Prayer.
Free and open to the public. 7 p.m. Sacred Heart Cultural Center. 706-826-4700. May 8. Party in the Park with Country Music's Rising Stars. A free acoustic concert featuring a variety of rising stars from our area and Nashville. This fundraiser for the Columbia County Exchange Club begins at 7 p.m. at Lady Antebellum Pavilion @ Evans Towne Center Park. Gates open at 6 p.m. Call Darrell Byrd at 706-951-5414 for information. May 8-9. Aiken Bluegrass Festival. Headliners include Town Mountain, Doug and the Henrys, Larry Keel, Crying Wolf and Greensky Bluegrass. The festival benefits STAR Riding (Specialized Therapeutic and Recreational Riding). Aiken Fairgrounds. For information, visit www.aikenbluegrassfestival.org. May 9. WRDW Family Fair. A day of family fun and excitement on the Augusta Common presented by WRDW news. Noon-4 p.m. Call 803-278-1212. May 9. Blind Willie McTell Blues Festival. This popular annual event features artists who offer the best in American music, focusing on Americana, folk, gospel, rock, blues and all its variations. This yearâs line-up includes Marcia Ball, John Hammond, Golden StateLone Star Revue, Chris Smither, Mingo Fishtrap and the Bruce Katz Band. Thomson, Ga. For tickets and information, visit www.blindwillie.com. May 14. Cotton Ball. Historic Augustaâs Cotton Ball will be held this year at the home of Mr. and Mrs. George Bush, 1300 Buena Vista Rd. Admission to the Cotton Ball is by current, new or renewing membership in Historic Augusta, Inc. 6:30-9:30 p.m. For more information call Historic Augusta. 706-724-0436. May 16. Mayfest. This outdoor concert is filled with live gospel, R&B and hip-hop music by national, regional and local artists. An array of vendors will also be on site. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. May Park. 622 4th St. 803-279-2330. May 16. Pedal Through the Past. Bring your bike and enjoy a ride on the River Levee Trail. 10 a.m. Meet at Lake Olmstead bulkhead entrance to the canal. www.augustacanal.com or 706-823-0440. May 16. Paddlefest. Annual kayak/canoe/standup paddleboard race and homemade raft building competition. There will also be a homemade boat show, food vendors and live entertainment following the races. 8-10 a.m. Starts at the headgates footbridge on the Savannah River. www.savannahriverkeeper.org. May 16. Thunder Over Augusta. Live musical performances, aerial demonstrations, food vendors, exhibits and a spectacular fireworks show. All in honor of Armed Forces Day. Free admission. Evans Towne Center Park. www.thunderoveraugusta.com.
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May 22. Community Block Party. This kick-off to summer vacation is for families with children ages 14 and under. Free good, live performances, radio remotes and more. Call 706-722-5613 for information. 3-7 p.m. at MLK Boulevard and Turpin Street. May 22-23. Banjo-B-Que. Bluegrass festival and sanctioned barbecue competition. A stop on the Great American festival will feature performances by Trampled by Turtles and Vance Joy. Craft beer, petting zoo, pig races and more. Evans Towne Center Park. www.banjobque.com. May 29, June 19. Movie Series at the Common. Pre-movie activities start at 7:30 p.m. Movie starts at dusk. Augusta Common. 706-821-1754.
CORRECTION Our apologies! The information regarding the summer day camps listed for Gymnastics Gold was incorrect in our April issue's annual Camp Guide. Here is the correct information. (Note: The information in our online camp guide at www.augustafamily.com has been updated.)
Gymnastics Gold 124 Cedar Lane, Martinez. www.gymnasticsgold.com. 706-650-2111. Camp Flip Flop. Ages 4-13. May 26-August 7, closed June 27-July 5. $36 per day or $130 per week. Camp hours 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Early drop off at 7:30 a.m. and late pickup at 5:30 p.m. at no additional cost. Weekly themes. Activities include gymnastics, games, crafts, movies, special guests and more. Bring sack lunch, bathing suits (Tuesday and Thursday), towel, sunscreen, shoes and a change of clothes. Preschool Camp Flip Flop. Ages 3-5. June 1-5: Under the Big Top, June 22-26: Moose Beach, July 6- 10: Disney at the Gym, July 20-24: Tumbling Cooks. 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. $60 per week. Please bring a sack lunch. Wear bathing suits on Tuesday and Thursday. Bring a towel, shoes, sunscreen and a change of clothes. Must be potty trained. Summer Gymnastics Classes. Check website for dates and times.
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calendar June 3. Story Time with Anne Sprinkle and her Therapy Dogs. Learn about therapy dogs and watch them perform tricks. Registration suggested for groups of six or more. 10 a.m. Jeff Maxwell Branch Library. 706-793-2020
May 8. Water Works. Enjoy a stream habitat assessment and macroinvertebrate survey to assess water quality in Reed Creek. Ages 12 and up. 4:30-5:30 p.m.
June 4. Jay Leno. The comedian, childrenâs book author and former Tonight Show host will appear at the Bell Auditorium. 7:30 p.m. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.
May 22 & June 27. Nocturnal Nightcrawlers. Learn about animals that are active at night and discuss how they are able to be so crafty while everyone else is sound asleep. For ages 5 and up. 7:30-8:30 p.m. on May 22, 8:30-9:30 p.m. on June 27.
June 6. Mudbugabeaux N Brew Festival. A crawfish boil and craft beer festival that will include a crawfish eating contest. 3-9 p.m. at the Augusta Common. For information: 706-855-5511 or Frenchmarketwest.com.
May 27 & June 30. Insect Investigations. Learn about our six-legged friends as you catch and release insects with bug nets in different areas of the park. Ages 5 and up. 4:30-5:30 p.m. on May 27, 1011 a.m. on June 30.
June 10. Sesame Street LiveâMake a New Friend. Elmo, Grover, Abby Cadabby and their Sesame Street friends welcome Chamki, Groverâs friend from India, to Sesame Street. 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.
May 29. All About Frogs. Go outdoors to listen to frogs using the calling survey protocol. Ages 5 and up. 7:30-8:30 p.m.
June 10, 17 & 24. Family Movie Matinees. Jabez Hardin Performing Arts Center at the Columbia County Library. June 14. Kevin Hart What Now Tour. Comedy star and entertainer at the James Brown Arena. 7 p.m. wwwaugustaentertainmentcomplex.com.
HISTORY AND SCIENCE May 2 & June 6. Swamp Saturday Guided Hike. Leisurely hike through 2.5 miles of nature park trails, departing from Swamp Shop & Visitorâs Center. 9:30 a.m. Phinizy Swamp Nature Park. www.phinizycenter.org. May 6. Brown Bag History Lecture: Healing Hands and Technology. Lecture by MCG historian Dr. Robert Nesbitt. Bring a lunch; light refreshments provided. Reservations not required. 12:30-1:30 p.m. Augusta Museum of History. 706722-8454. June 8-12. Summer Adventures: Dig History. Explore ancient hunting methods, learn what garbage says about us, work with professional archaeologists to excavate Jeffersonian Publishing Plant. Ages 11-17. Bring sack lunch and water bottle each day. Hickory Hill, Historic Home of Thomas, E. Watson, 502 Hickory Hill Dr., Thomson. Call 706-595-7777 to register. www.hickoryhill.org.
Reed Creek Park and Interpretive Center 3820 Park Lane, Martinez. 706-210-4027. www.ReedCreekPark.com. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration required.
June 6 or 26. Pond Exploration. With dip nets in hand, children will explore and learn about what animals live in our pond. Ages 5 and up. Be prepared to get a little bit wet and muddy. 10-11 a.m. June 23. Pollution Solution. This program includes hands-on activities demonstrating the various types of pollution and their causes and effects. Weâll then discuss possible solutions and recognize ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle. For ages 5 and up. 1011 a.m.
THE ARTS, MUSIC AND MORE May 1. 50th Gala Performance: Celebrating Ron Coltonâs 50 Years in Augusta. Dance Augusta celebrates with a repertory performance of all premiere works by emerging and established choreographers. 7 p.m. Imperial Theatre. (706)722-8341. May 3. Augusta Choraleâs Annual Spring Concert. 4 p.m. Gilbert Lambuth Memorial Chapel. Paine College. 706-830-0991. May 1-2, 7-9, and 14-16. Shear Madness. This unique comedy-whodunit takes place in the Shear Madness hairstyling salon and is chock full of up-tothe-minute spontaneous humor. 7 p.m. Fort Gordon Dinner Theatre. 706-793-8552. May 3. Celtic Woman. This enchanting musical experience features Celtic Woman performing a treasure chest of traditional Irish standards, classical favorites and contemporary pop songs, with an unforgettable signature style. 3 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.
by heart and dead-on impressions by a stellar cast. Aiken Performing Arts Group. 7:30 p.m. URS Theater. Aiken. 803-643-4774. May 8-10. Shrek, the Musical. The Augusta Players close their season with the premiere of Shrek, the Musical, based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks film that started it all. Presented by the Augusta Players. May 8 and 9, 8 p.m. May 10, 3 p.m. Imperial Theatre. For tickets, www.augustaplayers.org. May 10. A Motherâs Day Celebration: Love and Laughter With Anthony Hamilton and Bruce Bruce. Hamilton is joined by Bruce Bruce, whose name is synonymous with keeping audiences laughing thanks to his captivating improv skills and comedic style. 7:30 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com. May 12. John Fogerty: Celebrating One Extraordinary Year â1969.â John Fogerty is one of popular musicâs all-time greatest singers, guitar players and songwriters. 7:30 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com. May 14. Art Exhibition Opening Reception: Linda Hardy. The artist retired from her medical practice and began painting, studying under David Mascaro. Though initially painting in oils, Hardy has discovered a preference for acrylics. 5-7 p.m. Exhibit through June 26. Sacred Heart Cultural Center. 706826-4700. May 22, 23, 29 & 30, June 5 & 6. Les Miserables. Aiken Community Playhouse presents this classic tale of Jean Valjean, who is released from 19 years of unjust imprisonment but finds nothing in store for him but mistrust and mistreatment. All shows at 8 p.m. 126 Newberry St., SW, Aiken. www.aikenplayhouse.us. May 23. Augusta Choral Society Memorial Day Concert. A performance of music and readings in recognition of service men and women. 7:30 p.m. Sacred Heart Cultural Center. 706-826-4713. June 14-21. Southeastern Piano Festival. Each summer the Southeastern Piano Festival transforms the University of South Carolina School of Music and Columbia into a major cultural destination that draws in audiences and young piano talent from across the United States. The Southeastern Piano Festival embraces a multi-faceted personality. It is a high-level training platform for the young pianists; a presenter of new and world-renowned concert pianists and master teachers; an advocate for new piano music. For a full schedule of performances and events, visit www. sepf.music.sc.edu.
May 7 and 8. Forbidden Broadway. From Annie to Phantom to Wicked, this funny satirical roast of more than 30 Broadway hits features outrageous costumes, hilarious rewrites of the songs you know
June 19, 20, 26 & 27. Blood Money. Presented by Aiken Community Playhouse. Mike Mason and his wife were involved in a hit and run accident in which
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Here’s your chance to tell us your Family Favorites...those people, places, restaurants, schools and spots for family fun that make our city such a unique place to live. Cast your vote for those places and people you think deserve recognition for a job well done, focusing on places that are family friendly. No photocopies accepted. One ballot per reader please! All ballot categories must be completed in order for votes to be considered. Fold ballot, place in envelope and mail with correct postage to:
AUGUSTA FAMILY MAGAZINE 1 0 #PY r "VHVTUB (" %&"%-*/& +VMZ r Online voting available at www.augustafamily.com
ARTS/MUSIC/DANCING Visual Art Instruction Jazz/Hip Hop Dance Lessons Traditional Dance Lessons Music Lessons (piano, violin, drums, etc.) Performing Arts Group
FAMILY FUN Annual Family Event Day Trip Traditional Family Photographer Non-Traditional Family Photographer Indoor Playground Indoor Playground Overnight Trip Picnic Spot Rainy Day Outing Story Time
FOOD Breakfast Spot Burgers Desserts Drive-Thru Date Night Restaurant Restaurant-Chain Restaurant-Locally Owned Fries Pizza Chicken Fingers Mac & Cheese
Place To Get Coffee Healthy Menu Place for Ice Cream Kids Menu
LIFESTYLE/MEDICAL Auto Service Financial Institution (Bank or Credit Union) Place for Children’s Haircuts Computer Repair Service Place to Get Coffee Veterinarian Dog Groomer Kennel Pediatrician Pediatric Dentist OB/GYN Orthodontist After-Hours Medical Care Family Vision Care
MEDIA Radio Station Television Station Local website Favorite Part of Augusta Family Magazine
PARTIES Birthday Cakes
Toddler Party Place Elementary Age Party Place Boys Parties Girls Parties School/Class Parties Party Supply Store
EDUCATION Daycare Elementary School Middle School High School Tutoring Service
SHOPPING Car Dealer
Baby Clothes Boys Clothes Girls Clothes Consignment Shop Grocery Store School Supplies Toy Store
SPORTS
Children/Teen Sports Program Family Sporting Event Gymnastics/Cheer Instruction Martial Arts Program Swimming Lessons Tennis Program Family Fitness Center
calendar a young teenage girl was killed. All shows at 8 p.m. 126 Newberry St. SW. www.aikenplayhouse.us. June 20. John Mellencamp Plain Spoken 2015 North American Tour. 7:30 p.m. at the Bell Auditorium. (877) 4AUGTIX.
Morris Museum of Art 1 Tenth St. 706-724-7501 or www.themorris.org. May 1-June 7. For the Birds: Folk Art Birdhouses. Birdhouses are 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 one of its most generous supporters, collector Julia J. Norrell. May 1-July 19. Steffen Thomas Rediscovered. Prolific and multifaceted, artist Steffen Thomas was born in FĂźrth, Germany, but lived most of his adult life in Georgia. Though heâs particularly noted for monumental public art, he was the master of many media, including painting (oils, watercolor and encaustic), sculpture, mosaic and printmaking. Much of his work exhibits the influence of expressionism, which originated in Germany early in the 20th century. May 1. Films on Friday: Show Boat (1936). The Morris Museum of Art commences a summer of musicals about the South with a screening of this Jerome Kern-Oscar Hammerstein II masterpiece. Afterward museum director Kevin Grogan leads a discussion. Participants are invited to bring a lunch. Free. Noon. May 3. Artrageous! Family Sunday: Falconer Dale Arrowood and His Winged Ambassadors. Meet conservationist and master falconer Dale Arrowood during a live show featuring a variety of native birds of prey. Learn about the birds in our area and create a bird feeder for your own backyard. Free. 2-4 p.m. May 10. Music at the Morris. Enjoy bluegrass and mountain gospel songs by the award-winning Kelley Family Band. Free. 2 p.m. May 14. Exhibition Celebration. Commemorating the art showcased in Steffen Thomas Rediscovered and Paintings by William Willis. 6 p.m. May 16. Art Workshop: Decorate a Birdhouse. Prefab houses, gourds and a variety of materials will be on hand so that you can create a masterpiece for your feathered friends. Appropriate for all ages. Noon-4 p.m. May 22. Art at Lunch. Andrew and Hathla Hayes, guest curators of the exhibition Steffen Thomas Rediscovered, discuss the artistâs vibrant life. Lunch included. Pre-registration required by May 20. Noon.
SPORTS May 2. Augusta Relay for Life. Organized community fundraiser with teams taking turns walking around the track. Survivors, caretakers and community members can register at www.relayforlife.org/ augustaGA. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Westside High School. May 16-17. USA Rugby Southern Conference Championships. The winners of the Division 2 and Division 3 menâs tournament and Division 2 womenâs competition will earn the opportunity to compete in the USA Rugby National Championships in Glendale, Colo. Hosted by the Augusta Rugby Football Club in partnership with Columbia County Parks and Recreation and the Columbia County CVB. Blanchard Woods Park in Evans. 706-830-7680. May 17. Lock to Lock Bike Ride. Want to discuss adventure? Join this annual bicycling event for a scenic route of Augusta. Beginning at the Savannah Rapids Pavilion and back, the National Trails Fest Ride is an opportunity to spend a Sunday morning with your family and friends as you discover the real Augusta! Pre-Registration is required at Andy Jordan's Bicycle Shop located on 13th Street Downtown until Saturday, May 16th by 5 p.m. Ride is from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. All ages are invited. For more information, please call 706-724-2453 or visit www.andyjordans.com. June 13. Paws in the Park Pet Walk. The CSRA Humane Society presents this pet walk for all ages. Registration at 9:30 a.m., walk at 10 a.m. Pets should be healthy, at least 4 months old and have current vaccinations, including rabies. Refreshments. Microchip clinic 10 a.m.-noon. Booths, vendors and more from 1-4 p.m. Benefits the care and support of the pets at the shelter. 425 Wood St., Augusta. 706261-7387. www.csrahumanesociety.org.
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: MondayâAdapted fitness at the Kroc Center, 2-4 p.m. and wheelchair basketball at Garrett Elementary School, 6:30-8 p.m. TuesdayâSwimming at Fort Gordon, 9-11 a.m., and quad rugby at the Kroc Center, 6-8 p.m.
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Augusta GreenJackets Home Game Schedule Lake Olmstead Stadium For tickets 706-736-7889 Sunday games, 2 p.m. All other days, 7 p.m. www.greenjacketsbaseball.com May 1-4 vs Delmarva May 14-17 vs Hickory May 21-24 vs Asheville May 25-27 vs Greenville June 4-7 vs Lexington June 16-21 vs Savannah
WednesdayâWheelchair basketball, 6:30-8 p.m. ThursdayâSwimming at Fort Gordon, 9-11 a.m., and Adapted Fitness at the Kroc Center, 3-5 p.m. FridayâAdapted 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. Weekly. Family Y Summer Day Camps. The Family Y offers a variety of day camps at locations throughout the CSRA. For complete listings, please visit our website at www.augustafamily.com and click on the Camp Guide on the Resource Guides pull-down menu. May 1-10. Lacrosse Registration. Season played June 15-August 8. Ages 7-15. May 8, June 12. Freedom Friday at Augusta South Family YMCA. An evening of fun for ages 8 weeks to 12 years from 6â9:30 p.m. Free for active duty military families. May 9, June 13. Parentâs Night Out at Marshall Family YMCA & Family YMCA of North Augusta. Fun, entertaining nigh for children ages 2-12 years from 6-9:30 p.m. May 16, June 20. Parentâs Night Out at Family Y of Aiken County. Fun, entertaining nigh for children ages 2-12 from 5:30-9 p.m. May 22, June 25. Parentâs Night Out at Wilson Family Y. Enjoy a date night while your kids have fun at the Y from 6-9:30 p.m. May 23, June 27. Parentâs Night Out at Augusta South Family Y. Enjoy a date night while your kids have fun at the Y from 6-9:30 p.m. June 1-August 6. Swim Lessons. Weekly sessions
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rCamps Camp calendar
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calendar SEWING CLASSES MY BEST FRIENDâS SEWING ROOM 3850 Washington Rd., Suite 4C, La Petite Plaza. 706-993-8819 or email mybfsewingroom@ yahoo.com. www.facebook.com/mybestfriendssewingroom. Call or email for class fees. Pre-registration is required for all classes and events. May 2. American Girl Doll Party. Make a blanket and pillow for your American Girl doll at this open event. Donât forget your doll! Sewing machines & supplies included. 10 a.m.-noon. Ages 8 & up. May 9. Mommy & Me. Celebrate Motherâs Day early by making a sewing date with your child and sew your own aprons. Supplies are included. 10 a.m.-noon. Children must be ages 9 and up. May 16. Drawstring Beach Bag. Get ready for the beach with this terry cloth beach bag. Supplies and machine use included. 10 a.m.-noon. Ages 9 and up.
night out by bringing your child, ages 2-12, to the Kroc Center the first Friday of each month. Activities may include swimming, gym play, inflatables and crafts. Children must be potty trained. 6-10 p.m. Call for fees.
be available for purchase. Children 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Movie will start at dusk.
May 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29. Kroc Tots Activity Hour. Ages 18 months to 5 years. An action-packed play date for parents and toddlers featuring childrenâs literature, art and craft projects and social play. A guardian must remain with the child during Kroc Tots. 9:30-10:30 a.m.
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May 2-23. Lifeguarding Saturday Classes. Every Saturday from 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
First Tuesday of Each Month. Autism Spectrum Disorder Support and Resource Group (The âATeamâ). Education and support for families, caregivers and friends of children with autism spectrum disorders including autism, Aspergerâs and PDD NOS. 6-7 p.m. Childrenâs Hospital of Georgia, First Floor, Family Resource Library, Room 1801. Call Family Services Development at 706721-5160 for more information.
May 4-16 or May 18-30. Lifeguarding Two-Week Class. The course content and activities prepare participants to recognize and respond quickly and effectively to emergencies and prevent drownings and injuries. Monday, Tuesday & Thursday, 6-10 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m.-3 p.m. May 5, 12, 19 & 26. 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.
May 26-30. Sewing Skills Primer. Get a jump start on summer sewing camp by booking a private sewing lesson during this week to learn sewing machine basics. By appointment only. Limited slots. Ages 9 and up.
May 6, 13, 20 & 27. 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.
of swim lessons available for all ages and skill levels, ages 6 months to adult beginners. Open to Family Y members and non-members. Discount for additional siblings. Classes offered at the Wilson Family Y, Family Y of Aiken County and the Family Y of Downtown Augusta.
May 16. 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.
June 8-July 5. Registration for Soccer School & Youth Soccer at the Wilson Family Y. Soccer School is for ages 3-4. Youth Soccer is for ages5-15 years.
May 26-August 14. Camp Kroc. An ACA accredited day camp program where children are in a safe and positive environment. Campers enjoy swimming, arts and crafts, group games, sports, Bible lessons and more.
Ongoing. Tae Kwon Do at Family Y of Augusta South. Tae Kwon Do teaches self-discipline, focus and social skills. Beginner classes Tuesday/Thursday at 5:30 p.m. and Advanced classes Tuesday/ Thursday at 6:30 p.m.
5IF 4BMWBUJPO "SNZ ,SPD $FOUFS 1833 Broad Street, Augusta. www.krocaugusta.org. 706-364-KROC or info@krocaugusta.org. Call or email for course fee information.
May 29. 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.
May 1 & June 5. Kids Night Out. Parents enjoy a
June 26. Family Movie Night on the Lawn. Free. 7 p.m. Grab your beach chair or blanket for a night out with the family. When the sun goes down, the family fun begins with movies for all ages! There are activities planned before the movie, so arrive early, stake your ground and have some fun. Refreshments will
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HOSPITAL PROGRAMS 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 Thursday and Third Wednesday of Each Month. Cribs for Kids. Co-bunking and inappropriate infant furniture are putting area babies at risk. Safe Kids Greater Augusta, led by Children's Hospital of Georgia, will teach caregivers how to provide a safe sleep environment by showing what dangers to watch out for. Families who can demonstrate a financial need (Medicare, Peachcare or WICC) will receive a portable crib, fitted sheet, sleep sac and pacifier for a small fee. Call Rene Hopkins at 706-721-7606 to register. 5:45-8 p.m. on the first Thursday of the month, 9:45 a.m.-noon on the third Wednesday of each month. Safe Kids Office, Building 1010C,1225 Walton Way. First Friday and Second Wednesday of Each Month. Child Safety Seat Inspections. Four out of five car seats are used incorrectly. Schedule an appointment to make sure yours is installed properly. First Friday of the month in Building 1010C, 1225 Walton Way. Call Rene Hopkins, RN, at 706-7217606 to schedule an appointment at the downtown location. The second Wednesday each month at Columbia County Sheriffâs 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. Second Thursday of Each Month. NICU Parent Support Group. Noon-1 p.m. in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, 5th Floor, Childrenâs Hospital of Georgia; For more information, call Sylvia McCoy at 706-721-2286.
calendar 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.
May 15 & June 19. Baby Care Basics & Breastfeeding. This class combines two important topics. A board-certified lactation consultant teaches the class and covers a range of helpful topics including diapering, bathing, feeding, cord care, nipple care, milk storage, weaning and more.
Trinity Hospital of Augusta
May 15 & June 19. Breastfeeding Support Group. Help, understanding and guidance in breastfeeding.
Call Womenâs Health Services at 706-481-7727 or visit trinityofaugusta.com for information and registration. Please call for class times. May 2 & June 6. 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. May 7 & June 15. Infant CPR. Learn how to respond in an emergency situation using infant mannequins and a simple step-by-step method. 6-8 p.m. May 12 & June 16. Childbirth Education 101. Learn about the signs and symptoms of labor as well as labor and delivery. 6-8:30 p.m.
University Health Care System Call 706-774-2825 or logon at www.universityhealth. org/calendar for information. Registration is required for most programs.
May 21 & June 18. Breastfeeding Class. This class offers in-depth information on how to evaluate breastfeeding and get off to a good start. Registration is suggested. Call 706-774-2825. 7-8 p.m. at Babies R Us, 4225 Washington Rd., Evans. May 1 & 2, May 22 & 23, June 5 & 6 or June 19 & 20. 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., Womenâs Center for a tour, question-and-answer session and review.
May 12-16 (Tuesdays), May 13-27 (Wednesdays), June 1-22 (Mondays, June 2-23 (Tuesdays), June 3-24 (Wednesdays) and June 29-July 24 (Mondays). Prenatal Education. This multi-week series of childbirth preparation classes is designed to inform and prepare all expectant parents regardless of birth plans. Class topics include various stages of labor, breathing and relaxation and how to care for yourself and your new baby. 7-9 p.m. in the Womenâs Center Third Floor Classroom. Registration required.
May 28 & June 25. 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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Submit calendar information to karin.calloway@augustafamily.com.
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by Karin Calloway
Leila Jerome Clay, M.D. | Persistent Dr. Leila Jerome Clay, 36, of Evans, is a hematologist. She and her husband, Dameon, a guidance counselor at a Columbia County elementary school, have three children ages 14, 6 and 3. Dr. Clay volunteers with the Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia and Jack and Jill of Greater Augusta. She enjoys traveling, exercising, reading and dancing. Dream job: Event planner. Wanted to be when she grew up: Growing up in Haiti, helping the sick children was a necessary need. I just knew it from age 6 that I would want to be a pediatrician. Dream vacation: Australia. Favorite TV show: Scandal. Important life lesson: At my medical school graduation, Maya Angelou was our speaker and I will always remember her quote, âPeople will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.â Thus far in life, this has been one of the most important life lessons for me. Quality she admires the most: Honesty. Signature dish: According to me, my mango chutney salmon with basmati rice. According to my husband, sweet potato soufflĂŠ. Favorite indulgence: Moscato and a good movie. Best thing about being a mom: My children mean the world to me and being a working mom sometimes can be challenging but I witness their unconditional love every day. Hardest thing about being a mom: Watching your kids grow.
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