Augusta Family Magazine November 2011

November 2011 ANNUAL TOY GUIDE

ADOPTION SPECIAL FEATURE THANKSGIVING POINTERS ASTHMA INFORMATION

Family AUGUSTA

m a g a z i n e

Sarah, 3, and Sumter, 8, Brinson are the children of John and Verlinda Brinson of Martinez.

www.augustafamily.com

Augusta Family | Month 2010 • 1

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 Editor Karin Calloway Production Art Director Miles Anderson

Contents

23

for the 2011 Season of Giving

Graphic Artist Mandy Herlong Advertising Director of Advertising Adriene Goldman Advertising Sales Donna Costello Maidi McMurtrie Thompson Mary Porter Vann marketing & circulation Manager Doressa Hawes

By Lucy Adams

26

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.

2 • Augusta Family | November 2011

Looking for the Missing Peace and Finding It Through Adoption

National Adoption Awareness Month Special Feature

By Lucy Adams

departments

photography Chris Thelen contributors Lucy Adams Grace Belangia Charmain Z. Brackett J. Ron Eaker, M.D. Cammie Jones Jennie Montgomery Michael Rushbrook

NOVEMBER 2011

5 editor’s page 7 mom2mom Sleuth in Pursuit

—Jennie Montgomery

8 news&notes 10 eating well with kim

The Great Pumpkin —Kim Beavers, MS, RD, LD, CDE

15 doctor/dad

It’s All in Your Head

18 home front

Thanksgiving 101 —Karin Calloway

30 time out!

Dancing Into the Holidays —Cammie Jones

32 calendar 44 talkin’ about my generation

—J. Ron Eaker, M.D.

16 healthy family

More Than a Cough

on the cover:

—Charmain Z. Brackett

Anita Black, Dana Cheshire and Jack Monnig —Grace Belangia

Sarah, 3, and Sumter, 8, Brinson are the children of John and Verlinda Brinson of Martinez. Costumes provided by Vintage Ooollee, 1121 Broad St., which offers full costume rental services and authentic vintage clothing.

Sarah and Sumter were selected to be on our cover as the result of their mother entering them in our Fresh Faces contest at www.augustafamily.com.

Photo by Chris Thelen

November q ui c k pi c k “‘Are you trying to guess what your kids want for Christmas or Hanukah? Do you find yourself stealthily following them through stores, taking notes on everything they linger over? Have you interrogated their friends in carpool and on soccer sidelines? Do you desire to see their expressions of genuine excitement, joy and wonder, but don’t know how to pick the perfect holiday gift? Help is here.” Get the scoop on this season’s top toys in our Annual Toy Guide beginning on page 23.

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A D V E R T I S E M E N T

Q

4 • Augusta Family | November 2011

A

www.augustafamily.com

editor’spage

by Karin Calloway

We’re Moms and Dads, Just Like You

A

fairly heated conversation occurred on The Augusta Chronicle’s Web site regarding a letter to the editor written by Lisa S. Leonard of North Augusta on October 9. Ms. Leonard had read Cammie Jones’ article, “Should I Stay or Should I Go,” in the October issue of Augusta Family Magazine and came to the conclusion that the article was pro-working mom.

It surprised me that in 2011 people are still looking for a fight in the “mommy wars,” taking sides on the merits of working as a stay-at-home mom or working away from home while raising children. Every family situation is so unique that I’d hoped this kind of “we’re right, you’re wrong” dialogue had become a thing of the past.

In considering the points in Lisa’s letter, it dawned on me that our readers might like to know a little bit about who we are as a magazine staff. So let me introduce our key players.

All of our writers work on a freelance basis and all are mothers who work from home. For Cammie Jones, one article a month is the extent of her work outside of raising her children and doing community and school volunteer work. Lucy Adams, Grace Belangia and Charmain Z. Brackett have older children and are able to pursue more freelance writing opportunities.

I was like Cammie when my children were little, writing one column a week for The Augusta Chronicle and then added to my professional workload as my children progressed through the school years. Right now, my oldest is a sophomore in college and my youngest is a senior in high school.

Our full-time staff are all working parents. Our publisher, Kate Metts, our advertising director, Adriene Goldman, and our circulation and marketing manager, Doressa Hawes, have all worked full time since the end of their maternity leaves. And, our art director, Miles Anderson, is a single father who works full time.

No matter how much we work, or whether we predominantly stay at home while raising our children, parenting ranks high among all of our priorities. We all adore our children and work in an environment that supports our role as parents.

Our mission, or goal, as a publication is to provide content that is positive, encouraging and uplifting. Here’s the mission statement I wrote before we published our first edition, back in August of 2005: “Augusta Family Magazine strives to enrich families by providing information and inspiration in these areas: Your spirit, your relationships, family life and activities, your home, juggling work and family and enjoying your extended family and friends.”

Articles like “Should I Stay or Should I Go” illustrate our continued commitment to this mission.

Until December

Karin Calloway is a wife and mother of two teenagers. She’s also a journalist and recipe developer who writes the Wednesday cooking column for The Augusta Chronicle (augustachronicle.com/karin). You can follow Karin at twitter.com/KarinCalloway. Check out Karin’s cooking blog at www.karinsvikingkitchen.com. www.augustafamily.com

Augusta Family | November 2011 • 5

Activities

6 • November 2011 | Augusta Family

www.augustafamily.com

2

mom m m

Illustration by Michael Rushbrook

by Jennie Montgomery

Sleuth in Pursuit My three kids would probably tell you that Thanksgiving stirs up memories of family, food and football…but for me, it’s a reminder of what happens when moms take on the role of “community mothering,” whether it’s on the playground, at the workplace or in my case, at the gas station.

I was driving home after anchoring the early morning news the day after Thanksgiving. Filling in on the morning shift meant my work obligations were done and I had the whole day to spend with my family.

I stopped for gas and saw a NewsChannel 6 truck pulling away from the pumps. My instinct was to wave at the driver, who not only didn’t wave backbut DIDN’T EVEN WORK AT WJBF. I whipped my minivan around and headed up Riverwatch Parkway after the well-marked car. My hunch was that the suspect would make a break for the state line at I-20…so I floored it, honking my horn and flashing my lights behind the WJBF car for a good three miles.

The light at Alexander Drive turned red so I pulled up right beside the alleged car thief, waving my cell phone and mouthing Nine-One-One at the man. (Actually, my phone was dead…but I thought my evil stare-down would scare him into abandoning the vehicle.)

The light changed and “dumb criminal stealing a marked TV news truck” darted into a little parking lot, where I was certain he would change course and try to lose me.

Not to be outdone, I drove straight across the exit side of the parking lot, blocking his escape route. I turned off my engine and glared through my car window, imagining the headlines: “Car Thief Caught by News Anchor!”

As he got out of the news truck I heard him call, “Miss Jennie...” but his voice was drowned out by my heartbeat pounding in my ears: All I could see was the word David stitched on a white oval patch, sewn onto a pocket that said Butler Automotive.

I had been intimidating a guy who was repairing a WJBF news truck all the way up Riverwatch Parkway!!

Can’t you just imagine the story he tells around his Thanksgiving table?

JENNIE Montgomery anchors the evening news at WJBF-TV. She’s married to Scott and they have three children: Zack, 18, Maddy, 17, and Sky, 15.

www.augustafamily.com

Augusta Family | November 2011 • 7

news notes “We should certainly count our blessings, but we should also make our blessings count. “

~Neal A. Maxwell

Special Ph

oto

Let’s Get Cooking

ns

n at Steve the childre d te si vi n Jon Ashto ber. brity Chef ool in Octo Relish Cele entary Sch m le E k e re C

Relish Magazine Celebrity Chef Jon Ashton visited the Augusta area October 11 to speak to several local schools about the importance of healthy eating. Ashton, who has made food his life as a respected chef around the world, shared simple recipes with the children and inspired them to live a healthy lifestyle.

Ashton is a graduate of St. Helens College in Great Britain. He began his culinary career in several notable English restaurants, including the Derby Lodge Hotel and Restaurant in Blackpool and The Kirkfield Hotel in Newton Le-Willows. After moving to the United States, Ashton launched into the business with a passion for sharing his craft and making good food accessible.

He is currently the food correspondent of the nationally syndicated morning show “The Daily Buzz,” which is broadcast to more than 160 stations. He is also the executive chef for Relish Magazine, America’s most-read cooking magazine with 15.5 million weekly readers. You’ve probably also seen him on ABC, CBS and NBC as he travels on media tours and presentations.

Ashton will return to Augusta November 10 for the Relish Cooking Show & Expo at the Kroc Center. Tickets are $10 and will include an Expo from noon until 6 pm and an entertaining two-hour cooking show from 7-9 p.m. Purchase tickets now at augustarelishcookingshow.eventbrite.com or at The Augusta Chronicle News Building, 725 Broad St.

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View Our On-Line Extras on AUGUSTAFAMILY.com

Win Tickets!

Attend the Relish Magazine Cooking Show, hosted by The Augusta Chronicle, on Thursday, November 10, at 7 p.m. at the Kroc Center with two free tickets from Augusta Family Magazine. The winning names will be drawn Monday, November 7. Go to www. augustafamily.com and then click on the Contest tab to enter.

Be sure to follow Augusta Family Magazine on Facebook at www.facebook.com/augustafamilymagazine. We offer Facebook-only contests for prizes and event tickets. Also follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/AUGFamilyMag.

Fun Food!

Click our Fun Food tab for Web-exclusive recipes along with other fun, family friendly food-related news and recipes from our print publication.

8 • Augusta Family | November 2011

Follow Us!

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news notes local

Legends In 1991, The Augusta Children’s Chorale was established as a community enrichment project to offer boys and girls the opportunity for musical and personal growth in a choral organization geared toward professional standards and to provide the community with a children’s choir capable of performing musical variety.

Membership is open by audition to singers in grades 3-8. See the annual holiday performance at the Just Desserts concert featuring delectable desserts with favorite Christmas sounds. Performance will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, November 10 at the Sacred Heart Cultural Center. Tickets are $10. For tickets, call 706-826-4718.

The Augusta Museum of History opened a new permanent exhibition on October 28. The Local Legends exhibition celebrates the incredible talent of area-wide entertainers, musicians, singers, authors, athletes, journalists and other notable personalities.

“The public could be very surprised of who is in this show,” says Nancy Glaser, executive director. “I know I was when we began doing the research three years ago. And there are many, many more people the Museum hopes to add over time.”

The Augusta Children’s Chorale.

Safe Kids Fast Fact Keep It

Cool When Cooking

Cooking-related fires are the number one cause of home fires in the United States.

Be sure your smoke alarms are in working order by performing a monthly test. You should also check the expiration date on your kitchen fire extinguisher. If you have a small kitchen fire, contain the flames with a lid or cookie sheet (close the oven or microwave door), turn off or unplug the power, do not touch until it has cooled. Remember, when in doubt GET OUT! Safe Kids East Central, led by Georgia Health Sciences Children’s Medical Center .Rene Hopkins, RN, Coordinator, 706-721-7606.

Read the full article on kitchen safety at www.augustafamily.com. www.augustafamily.com

Augusta Family | November 2011 • 9

The Great Pumpkin

eating well with kim

by Kim Beavers, MS, RD, LD, CDE

Don’t Limit Your Pumpkin Consumption to the Annual Pumpkin Pie

It’s pumpkin time! Pumpkin pie is the only way I had ever eaten pumpkin until my adult years. However, pumpkin can be enjoyed many other ways, which is fortunate for me because, sadly, I do not like the all-American pumpkin pie. Today’s recipe maintains some of the sweetness you might find in pumpkin pie but lets the flavor and nutrients of the fresh pumpkin shine.

Speaking of nutrients, consider this: One-half cup of fresh pumpkin has only 40 calories, five grams of fiber and 300 percent of your daily value for vitamin A. That is one nutrient-packed food!

While fresh pumpkins are seasonal, pumpkin puree is available yearround and can be substituted for oil in many different recipes including cakes, muffins and quick breads. Try adding pumpkin puree instead of oil to your next batch of brownies. Other great uses for pumpkin puree include adding it to your morning oatmeal and mixing it into your favorite batch of chili.

It is not hard to pick out a can of pumpkin puree, but you may be wondering how to pick out the best pumpkin for cooking. The first thing you need to know is that the large pumpkins used as decorations and Jack-O-Lanterns are not generally used for cooking or eating. They tend to have a more stringy texture and are not as sweet.

For cooking, pick out a smaller pumpkin typically called a pie or sugar pumpkin. Look for a pumpkin that is firm and heavy for its size.

Make sure that it is free of spots and scratches and has a dull finish.

Those that are shiny may have been picked too soon and are not ripe.

Making fresh pumpkin puree is easy to do and the added advantage of using a fresh pumpkin is that you get seeds to toast—you don’t get those out of the can.

Fresh Pumpkin Puree Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the whole pumpkin on a foillined baking sheet and bake for 90 minutes, until tender. Allow to cool and peel (the peeling should come off very easily). Cut the pumpkin in half and remove the seeds and stringy pulp with a large spoon. Cut the remaining pumpkin into chunks and puree. Fresh pumpkin puree will keep for five days in the refrigerator and six months in the freezer.

Maple Roasted Pumpkin This is a delicious way to enjoy pumpkin beyond the pie.

1 2-pound sugar or pie pumpkin 1 ½ Tbs. Maple syrup (use the real stuff here) 1 tsp. extra virgin olive oil

¼ tsp. cinnamon ¼ tsp. vanilla extract Vegetable oil cooking spray

Pumpkin Seeds Don’t throw away those seeds! Wash them off and roast them. To roast them: rinse and dry the seeds, then place in a single layer on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray and roast at 300 degrees for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Spray the tops of the seeds with cooking spray and sprinkle the desired seasoning evenly over the seeds before roasting. Pumpkin seeds can also be sprinkled onto custards and pies.

The seeds provide healthy unsaturated fat (omega 3), fiber, iron, zinc, magnesium and manganese. Throughout the year you can find hulled pumpkin seeds in the produce section. They are great as a snack or tossed on a salad.

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.

10 • November 2011 | Augusta Family

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

To prepare the pumpkin, cut the top and bottom of the pumpkin off and then peel the rest of the pumpkin with a vegetable peeler. Cut the pumpkin in half, remove the strings and seeds (reserve the seeds for use later). Cut the pumpkin into 1-inch chunks and place in a large bowl.

Combine the remaining ingredients in a small bowl, stir to combine and then pour the mixture over the pumpkin chunks, toss to coat. Spread pumpkin on an aluminum foil covered baking sheet that has been sprayed with cooking spray.

Roast for 20 minutes, until tender and delicious.

Yield: 4 servings Nutrition Breakdown: Calories 70, Fat 1.5g (0g Saturated fat, 1g Monounsaturated fat), Cholesterol 0mg, Sodium 0mg, Carbohydrate 16g, Fiber 1g, Protein 2g.

Percent Daily Value: 250% Vitamin A, 25% Vitamin C, 8% Iron, 4% Calcium Carbohydrate Choice: 1 Carbohydrate Diabetes Exchange Values: 1 Starch

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Augusta Family | November 2011 • 11

Holiday

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Fun

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14 • Augusta Family | November 2011

www.augustafamily.com

}Doctor/Dad

by J. Ron Eaker, M.D.

It’s All In Your Head The Realities of the Placebo Effect

“T

he doctor who fails to have a placebo effect on his patients should become a pathologist” -J.N. Blau, M.D.

The lines between the art and science of medicine are often blurred. Many years ago, when the earth was cooling and I was a medical student, I was assigned to shadow an older Ob/Gyn in private practice. The goal was to gives us young medical pups a sense of real-world medicine.

Dr. Koronik was a gifted clinician as well as a crafty student of human behavior. One afternoon we were speaking with a patient, a recently married young female, who was completing her yearly exam when she reported her libido, or sex drive, had driven off and she didn’t have the map! Dr. K. had done a thorough physical exam and knew anatomically everything was intact, and so he talked with her at length about her life situation and decided to get some baseline blood work. She was to return when the blood work was back and review the results and discuss any treatment options.

After she left, Dr. K. pulled me aside and said he felt her problem was more from the neck up and not the waist down. He was not patronizing or minimizing her problem, it was just an honest assessment of what he surmised was the source of her lack of desire.

Upon her return, they reviewed the blood work, which supported the idea that all was well physiologically, and Dr. K. had a long discussion about stress, relationships and other important factors in sexual well being. At the conclusion he presented her with a bottle of tablets and told her that taking one on a daily basis may increase her libido.

Questionable But Effective I was taken aback and after she left I questioned

his prescribing of a medication for what he seemed to think was an emotional issue. He explained, in what was to be the first of many lessons in healing as opposed to curing, that the “medicine” was nothing more than sugar pills and that he felt they would aid in minimizing her psychological issues with intimacy. There are a number of ethical and legal issues involved with this “treatment,” but remember this was almost 30 years ago and in a small town in East Tennessee.

I didn’t see the young lady in follow up, but a few days later Dr. K. reported a Ford 350 pickup truck backed up to the rear of his office around closing time. A burly, six-foot-something cowboy straight off a movie set ambled out of the truck cab and sauntered to the back door of the clinic.

“Hey doc,” he offered as he thrust his hand in greeting. “My wife came to see ya a few days ago about this...eh...problem she been havin’. ” No doubt, this was the husband of the libido-challenged patient. “I just wanted to come shake your hand for them pills you gave her cause, let me tell ya, I don’t ever want to run out of them things! I brought my truck here to load up a batch!”

Scientifically Provable Say what you may, but the placebo effect is a real and powerful scientifically validated phenomenon.

There are some amazing studies done with PET scanners, machines that “light up” areas of the brain that are functioning in thoughts and emotions, that confirm that feelings can be translated into physical changes in the brain.

When we feel happy or sad, specific areas of the brain are activated and in turn set off a cascade of hormones, neurotransmitters and a cavalcade of substances that elicit amazing physical effects. www.augustafamily.com

There is a branch of science called psychoneuroimmunology that studies how our thoughts and emotions effect our immune system. For example, if you get into an argument with your spouse or yell at your kids getting dressed for school, not only do you feel stressed, but you are more susceptible to catching a cold. There is even some evidence that chronically stressed or angry individuals are more at risk for certain cancers because their emotional state impairs their immune system’s natural ability to eradicate early abnormal cells.

The Mayo Clinic issued a series of findings on research done on the reasons the placebo effect is genuine: • “A patient whose doctor is supportive and positive may benefit more from any treatment, active or placebo.”

• “A patient who believes a treatment will work is more likely to experience the placebo effect than one who doubts it.”

• “Some patients respond well to frequent and intensive medical attention, whether or not a drug or treatment is potent.”

Indeed, the placebo effect is “all in your head,” but it is just as real and often as therapeutic as a drug. Now if I could just find some of those “libido” pills!

Dr. Eaker is an Augusta Ob/ GYN and author. He and his wife, Susan, have two teenage daughters.

Augusta Family | November 2011 • 15

healthyfamily}

by Charmain Z. Brackett

More Than a Cough

Asthma Cases Are on the Rise, Impacting Children and Adults Alike

W

hen Caroline Teagarden was about 5 years old, something about the way she coughed bothered her mother, Dianna

Teagarden.

“When she was younger, she’d get these really deep coughs. Her doctor said it sounded like there were marbles in her chest,” says Dianna.

The culprit was asthma, a chronic respiratory disease that affects more than eight percent of Americans, according to a January 2011 report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

And over the past three to four decades, the incidence of asthma has increased, says Dr. Dennis Ownby, chief of the division of allergy, immunology and rheumatology at the Georgia Health Sciences University. “It’s increased about three to four percent, and it’s up to over 10 percent in some ethnic groups,” he says.

What Is Asthma?

Asthma is a respiratory condition in which the passages in airways become inflamed. This causes them to narrow, making breathing difficult. Symptoms include shortness of breath, 16 • Augusta Family | November 2011

coughing, wheezing and chest pain, according to the CDC’s report at www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/ nhsr/nhsr032.pdf.

About 24 million Americans have asthma.

Rates are typically higher in women, children, people of non-Hispanic, black and Puerto Rican ethnicity, people living in families that are below the poverty level and people living in the Northeast and Midwestern parts of the United States.

In 2008, 60 percent of all school-aged children with asthma missed at least one day of school because of asthma-related problems and nearly 34 percent of all adults with asthma missed at least one day of work. That equals about 10.5 million missed school days and 14.2 million missed work days. The study also found there were 1.75 million asthma-related emergency room visits in 2007.

Another CDC study showed the most dramatic increase in the rate of asthma came in black children. The rate increased 50 percent from 2001 to 2009.

Asthma attacks can be brought on by different triggers such as cold air, perfumes and other strong odors and allergens, according to Dr. Ownby. Also exercise and stress can bring on attacks. “The vast majority of children with www.augustafamily.com

asthma do have allergies,” says Ownby.

Dander and pet hair can be triggers, but interestingly, small children who live in homes with dogs and cats have a reduced risk of developing pet allergies and having respiratory problems, he says.

Triggers and Treatments There is no cure for asthma, but there are a variety of treatment options.

For Caroline, who is now 16 and a junior at Greenbrier High School, the best course of action is a regime of medications to prevent attacks from occurring. “She takes Advair and Zyrtec,” says her mom. “If she doesn’t, she will need her inhaler during the day.”

A rescue inhaler opens up the airways quickly by sending medications directly into the lungs.

Unlike Caroline, Elizabeth Kenyon, a senior at Evans High School, doesn’t need a daily medication regimen. She first had breathing problems when she was a toddler, according to her mother, Sue Kenyon.

“She woke up from a nap and couldn’t breathe,” says Sue. Elizabeth knows what triggers her attacks. She keeps a rescue inhaler in her purse.

“Going from hot to cold, from the heat into the air conditioning” can be a trigger, says Elizabeth.

And during cold and flu season, her respiratory symptoms tend to be worse than others with colds.

Elizabeth’s biggest trigger is dance. A dancer with the Columbia County Ballet, Elizabeth often encounters breathing problems during performances or rehearsals of fast-paced pieces. She makes sure her mom is close to the stage wings when she runs off during a performance so she can take a quick breath into an inhaler.

Why the Increase?

Theories abound as to the reason for the increase in asthma. “No one knows the exact reason why there has been an increase in the prevalence of asthma,” says Dr. Ownby. “People have looked at a lot of different factors.”

Studies have considered possible culprits such as air pollution, bacteria and people living in concentrated spaces. Also people have less contact with animals, which may or may not lead to exposure to bacteria that could strengthen the immune system. “There are a lot of possibilities, but no one has proven anything,” he says.

Secondhand Smoke and Asthma While there may not be a proven reason for the increase in asthma in children, studies have shown secondhand smoke greatly contributes to a variety of health problems including asthma, sudden infant death syndrome, bronchitis, ear infections and pneumonia, according to the United

States Environmental Protection Agency’s Web site, www.epa.gov.

Secondhand smoke increases the number of asthma attacks in children as well as the severity of their asthma symptoms. “Exposure to secondhand smoke can cause new cases of asthma in children who have not previously shown symptoms,” according to the Web site.

Warning Signs Dr. Ownby says one of the most common signs of asthma in young children is coughing. They may have colds with coughs that take longer than usual to go away. Activity, such as running and playing, can bring on coughing; however, coughing can also occur at night while the child is trying to sleep or after exposure to cold air. Other children might complain of chest pain or they may make a whistling or wheezing sound when breathing.

Also, during or after exercise, children may experience shortness of breath.

Parents should watch for any signs that their child may be having difficulty breathing, especially when the child is playing quietly.

Breathing tests can be used to diagnose asthma. The most common test is called spirometry, which uses a device called a spirometer, to measure the amount of air breathed and the speed at which it is breathed.

Parents should contact their physician if their child is experiencing any breathing problems. Asthma could be the problem or there could be another cause.

Charmain Z. Brackett is an Augusta freelance writer and mother of three.

www.augustafamily.com

Augusta Family | November 2011 • 17

homefront }

by Karin Calloway

Thanksgiving 101

Photo By John Harpring

A Guide To Hosting a Stress-Free Thanksgiving for Reluctant Hosts

I

’ll never forget the first Thanksgiving I hosted as a newlywed. I spent countless hours on the phone with my mother and mother-in-law gathering recipes and advice and then it was time for me to prepare the big meal.

The outcome of my endeavors was fair at best. I overstuffed the dressing into the turkey, ending up with something that resembled a very compacted football. My gravy was solid. Honestly. I had to blend it with some additional liquid in order to make it passable. I didn’t have a springform pan, so I baked my pumpkin cheesecake in a pie plate and then tried to turn it out like you would a regular cake, ending up with half a molten hot cheesecake down the front of me and in between my toes.

Flash forward 26 Thanksgivings later and this once-inexperienced hostess now spends two-thirds of her working hours developing recipes and guiding home cooks in all matters culinary. So, for those of you who want to avoid some of the disappointments of my first Thanksgiving, I’m offering some tips and a timeline to help you serve your Thanksgiving dinner with ease.

The First Week in November • Invite your guests and say yes if they ask if they can bring something.

• Plan your menu, keeping oven and stove-top space in mind. The turkey takes up a lot of oven real estate, so be sure to include side dishes that can be 18 • Augusta Family | November 2011

cooked on the stove or in slow cookers, along with a few items that can be quickly baked while the turkey rests and is carved. Consider including some menu items that can be reheated or cooked in the microwave. (Items that can be heated or cooked in the slow cooker include mashed potatoes, gravy and dressing.)

• Divide your menu into the following categories: 1) Items that can be prepared ahead and frozen. 2) Items that can be prepared a day or two ahead and can be baked or reheated on the big day. 3) Items that must be prepared Thanksgiving day. (See sidebar for ideas of items you can go ahead and freeze.)

• Prepare grocery lists for each of the three categories. Now you’re ready to go ahead and set aside time to shop and prepare the items that can be made ahead and frozen this week.

• Decide which dishes, glasses and linens you’ll use. If your linens need to be laundered, go ahead and do that this week (or take them to the dry cleaner this week).

The Second Week in November • Polish your sterling silver, if using.

• Clean out the refrigerator to make room for Thanksgiving groceries.

• Enlist the children to help make table decorations and place cards. Great ideas can be found at www.familyfun.com.

• Order your centerpiece, if you plan to have one.

• Shop for non-perishable items from your remaining two shopping lists. Store them in a place where family members won’t assume they’re for their consumption or label them with a sticky note.

• Make and freeze any items that you didn’t complete last week.

The Third Week in November

• If you plan to include fall or Thanksgiving decorations throughout your entertaining area, go ahead and decorate this week if you haven’t already done so.

• If you have out-of-town guests who will be staying in your home, go ahead and put fresh linens on the beds and prepare the guest bathroom for their stay. You can touch everything up before their arrival, but it will be good to have this mostly out of the way.

• If you plan to serve a fresh, local or organic turkey, go ahead and order it now.

• Check your serving pieces to make sure everything is ready for the big day. Clean the serving piec-

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es and label them with a sticky note indicating which menu item they’ll hold.

The Weekend Before and Thanksgiving Week • Clean the house so that all you have to do is tidy up on Thanksgiving day.

• If you plan to serve a frozen turkey, go ahead and purchase it and store it in the refrigerator to defrost.

Although most turkeys say they defrost in a few days, large turkeys can take a lot longer to thaw completely in the refrigerator.

• Get aggressive and clean out your refrigerator again, making space for casseroles, beverages and other items.

ate until ready to serve. Place on the table or buffet after the turkey is done roasting and your casseroles are baking.

• Prepare the oven for roasting the turkey. You’ll probably need to lower a rack and remove a rack or two before preheating the oven.

• Preheat the oven. Remove the turkey from the refrigerator one hour before you plan to begin roasting it. Roast according to package directions and let rest for 30 minutes before carving.

• Once the turkey is out of the oven, bake your casseroles. Get anything that needs to be cooked on top of the stove going. Reheat rolls the last 10 minutes of baking time for the casseroles.

• Complete as much of your grocery shopping as possible.

• While the casseroles bake, fill glasses with ice and remove the drinks from the refrigerator. Fill a pitcher or two with cold water.

• Roll your silver and set your table to free you up for cooking on the big day.

• Now it’s time to enjoy your guests. (And, if someone offers to help clean up SAY YES!)

Karin Calloway is an Evans wife and mother of two who writes the weekly cooking column for The Augusta Chronicle and prepares her recipes for cooking segments aired on • Late in the week, do any prep-work that you can WJBF NewsChannel 6. She is the author of two cookbooks do ahead, such as chopping onions and celery, peel- and the on-line chef for Viking Range Corporation.

Fit for Freezing ing carrots, etc.

Use your freezer to help spread the workload when preparing your Thanksgiving meal. The following can The Day Before Thanksgiving be prepared and frozen without affecting the quality • Hit the grocery store for one last time to purchase of the dish. Allow casseroles to defrost in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours before baking. any remaining items to complete your meal.

• Refrigerate the beverages you plan to serve and stock up on ice.

• Homemade turkey stock for gravy • Homemade pie crust • Homemade yeast rolls • Most vegetable casseroles • Chopped onions and celery for dressing • Clean the bathrooms and tidy up the house. • If you make sausage dressing, you can brown, Clean the kitchen after you’ve finished your prep- cool and freeze your sausage ahead of time • Homemade cranberry sauce work for the day.

• Cornbread for cornbread dressing

• Make all dishes that can be prepared ahead. Bake pies, make mashed potatoes, casseroles and cornbread for dressing, tip and tail fresh green beans, etc.

Skip “From Scratch” • Go out to dinner or pick up something prepared.

One mistake new hosts make is thinking they have You’ve done your share of cooking for the day and to make everything from scratch. Rely on these tricks will do more tomorrow. to cut down your cooking time and reduce preparation stress and exhaustion.

Thanksgiving Day • Set up your coffee maker so that all you need to • Buy prepared frozen yeast rolls. do is press “on” before you sit down to eat so that it • Let someone do the cooking for you. Order a fried or roasted turkey along with side dishes will be ready for dessert. from the supermarket or Wife Saver.

• Use prepared pie crusts.

• Purchase a jar or two of turkey gravy as backup in case you don’t end up with as much gravy as you need to serve your guests.

• Look for prepared cornbread in the supermarket bakery section and use it to prepare your • Place cranberry sauce and other condiments in dressing. serving dishes, cover with plastic wrap and refriger- • Use canned broth instead of making your own.

• Spray slow cooker liners with nonstick cooking spray and fill them with the items you plan to cook or heat in them and turn them on low or warm. Check the cookers occasionally, stirring and reducing the heat if they appear to be sticking.

www.augustafamily.com

Augusta Family | November 2011 • 19

www.augustafamily.com

22 • Augusta Family | November 2011

www.augustafamily.com

for the 2011 Season of Giving

By Lucy Adams

Are you trying to guess what your kids want for Christmas or Hanukah? Do you find yourself stealthily following them through stores, taking notes on everything they linger over? Have you interrogated their friends in carpool and on soccer sidelines? Do you desire to see their expressions of genuine excitement, joy and wonder, but don’t know how to pick the perfect holiday gift? Help is here.

Over the past 15 years, after the annual September International Toy Show in New York City, toy gurus Jim Silver and Chris Byrne have correctly predicted which toys will top children’s wish lists and have parents pulling out the stops to find them. The duo from TimetoPlayMag.com, along with their editorial staff, has once again released their Time to Play Most Wanted List for the 2011 Holiday Season. Check out this sampling, then go to www.TimetoPlayMag.com for the full list, as well as video demonstrations, product information and plenty of reviews.

Angry Birds Knock on Wood Game Based on the popular phone app, Angry Birds is a game enjoyed by adults and children. It takes Angry Birds off of the phone screen and puts them into the hands of youngsters. Kids can manipulate the game pieces to build, launch and destroy. Designed for two to four players, players attempt to build a structure pictured on a drawn playing card before an opponent knocks down the structure and the pigs. The game includes three Angry Birds, green pigs, one slingshot-style launcher, structure pieces and mission cards. The whole family enjoys interactive fun together, and mom and dad don’t have to monitor who gets to play on the iPhone next. Mattel, ages 5-9 years, approximate retail price: $16.

Big Action Construction Site If your youngster loves construction vehicles, he’ll want the Big Action Construction Site with remote control dump truck. It’s ideal for kid-directed imaginative play. With an easy to use RC controller, even a young child can guide the truck up and down ramps. An automatic elevator lifts vehicles to the second level. Kids manipulate a plunger claw to load and unload boulders. Maneuvering the truck onto the hopper triggers boulders to be dropped into the truck-bed from the upper level. Best of all, the Big Action Construction Site is big enough to share with playmates.

Fisher-Price, ages 3-7 years, approximate retail price: $59.99.

Hot Wheels Wall Tracks What adult doesn’t remember the fun and thrills of racing Hot Wheels up and down the hills and around the curves of racetracks as a child? Hot Wheels, that classic toy, has gone off the, no, actually, up the wall with this new take on the racetrack. Wall Tracks are a vertical, wall-mounted play system. Stunts, speed, turns and tricks come with the territory. Expand the excitement with add-ons like the Daredevil Curve track set and the Drift Rally Spinout track. Mattel, ages 4-8, starter set approximate retail price: $54.99, add-on set approximate retail price: $17.99. www.augustafamily.com

Augusta Family | November 2011 • 23

3D Breakthrough Puzzles These puzzles combine the two-dimensional jigsaw puzzle with three-dimensional technology. Puzzles come in beginner, intermediate and advanced to meet a range of skill levels. Depending on difficulty, puzzles have anywhere from 100-1500 pieces. First complete and glue the flat puzzle and then use special clips to construct and add the 3D components. The result is a lasting piece of art. Face the challenge together and complete a puzzle as a family. Mega Brands, ages 8 and up, approximate retail price: $19.99.

DaGeDar Boys love the speed, skill and strategy of the DaGeDar racing game. The collectability of the over 100 DaGeDar characters (each character has its own unique back-story) adds to the appeal. Special DaGeDar balls marked with the rare sign of “33” are more challenging to collect. Every character has a unique inner racing spirit that is reflected in its graphic. Kids are encouraged to use their own creativity to design the rules of the race.

Track sets, sold separately, offer different adventures and opportunities to master stunts and tricks. Cepia, ages 4 and up, approximate retail price: $4.99-$19.99.

Lalaloopsy Silly Hair Doll No more matted, tangled doll hair that can’t be brushed, combed or braided. The Lalaloopsy Silly Hair Doll has pretty pink hair that bends, twists, curls and straightens into any crazy hairstyle a girl can dream up, over and over again. Each doll comes with a pet that has a matching bendable tail, plus a hairstyling brush, 4 clips and 6 hair beads. Crumbs Sugar Cookie doll and Jewel Sparkles doll are perfectly sized for small hands and big hearts. MGA Entertainment, ages 4-8, approximate retail price: $40.

24 • Augusta Family | November 2011

www.augustafamily.com

Innotab

Innotab is a multi-function touchscreen tablet for kids that functions similarly to mom and dad’s and delivers learning through play.

Ebooks, games, creative activities and applications make this one powerful educational tool. Interactive ebooks engage children with animation and audio. The touch screen and tilt-sensor used to play games improve kids’ fine motor skills and eye-hand coordination.

Additional content can be downloaded from a PC or MAC from VTech’s Learning Lodge Navigator.

Vivid graphics combined with easy to use technology will entertain and educate children for hours.

VTech, ages 4-9, approximate retail price: $79.99.

LOGO Board Game Has family game night become a bore? Are you tired of the same-old, same-old? It’s time to put your pop culture consumer knowledge to the test. Tap into all of the information about various brands that you’ve passively put into storage over the years. Discover astonishing facts and hilarious histories about brands and logos that will entertain the entire family. It’s a race to the winner’s circle. And with 400 game cards, the fun is designed to last for many game nights to come. SpinMaster, ages 12 and up, approximate retail price: $24.99.

Lazer Stunt Chaser

Choose the blue Flameout or the red Dragonfire RC car, each with a 40-foot control range.

Both have light-up wheels that change color when the dual-sided car flips over and changes directions. These are no ordinary RC cars, however. The remote control projects an infrared laser light beam that the car chases with super speed and agility. Kids will enjoy improving their skill at using the remote control to make the car do stunts and flips. Each car comes with a built-in rechargeable battery, a battery deck charger, a wireless infrared remote control and an instruction guide. Thinkway Toys, ages 4-8 years, approximate retail price: $50.

Redakai Championship Tin Redakai takes gaming and card trading to the next level with innovative Blast 3D™ technology. This is a tournament-ready deck of Redakai cards, plus all of the accessories needed to play. Redakai cards contain both 3D and animation effects. With new game technologies, players can track their progress and view the effectiveness of their attacks. While conquering the Kairu, children develop strategic planning skills and creative thinking. Spinmaster, ages 6 and up, approximate retail price: $29.99.

FyrFlyz

These unique gadgets create amazing light shows from the palm of a child’s hand. Different models are available, each with their own color display. Kids can practice tricks, put on shows for their parents and choreograph light routines to music. Have fun creating shooting stars, Saturn rings, sun blasts and flywheels. Throw FyrFlyz through the air to generate wild patterns of colored lights.

Who’s afraid of the dark now? iStar Entertainment, ages 3 and up, approximate retail price: $10 each.

Spy Net Stealth Video Glasses No aspiring spy is fully equipped without undercover surveillance equipment. Tucked inside of these sunglasses is a tiny video camera. When the wearer adjusts the frames, ahem, he or she presses a button to either snap a photo or record up to 20 minutes of video with sound. To indicate that the camera is recording, a discreet LED light glows red on the inside of the bridge of the frames.

The rechargeable lithium battery is charged via a computer using the included USB cord. The mission is no longer impossible.

Jakks Pacific, ages 8 and up, approximate retail price: $39.99

www.augustafamily.com

Augusta Family | November 2011 • 25

Looking for the Missing Peace and Finding It Through Adoption

National Adoption Awareness Month Special Feature

By Lucy Adams • Photography by Chris Thelen

The Drake Family As a young child, Jennifer Drake set her mind on someday adopting. She describes adoption as love 26 • Augusta Family | November 2011

Photo By Chris Thelen

E

very child deserves a permanent family.

Every little one all around the world, no matter what country, what religion, what color of skin, desires to be wrapped in the arms of someone who loves him or her to the moon and back. A sense of stability, predictability, consistency, self-confidence—this is built on the foundation of home, where a child puts his head on the pillow at night knowing he is surrounded by the sights and sounds and smells and textures that define who he is as an individual within the safe context of a whole family.

Thousands of children worldwide have never experienced this type of security. Even within the U.S. borders, thousands of children live in temporary foster care. For these children, November has been named National Adoption Awareness Month and November 19 is National Adoption Day. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families, in September of 2010, 56,404 boys and 50,596 girls were in foster care awaiting adoption.

Their average age was 8 years old and their average length of wait for adoption at that time was a little over three years. Approximately 52,800 were adopted by the end of 2010, leaving over half still without permanent homes. Another 64,000 were added to the pool of adoptable foster children at the beginning of this year.

These staggering numbers do not include children available for international, private or agency (other than government agencies) adoptions. Nor do they take into consideration the heartache of couples struggling to begin or to expand their families, trying to navigate the ropes and rigors of the adoption process. Data are just numbers; simply the cold, hard facts. The people involved—the adoptive parents, the birth parents, the infants and children—are real.

Drs. Jeff and Jennifer Drake with children (from left) Samuel, Molly, Cynthia and Thomas.

that crosses all boundaries. Jennifer maintained her conviction into adulthood, sharing her intentions with her then boyfriend, now husband, Jeff, while they were dating. It didn’t scare Jeff off. He committed to the goal with her. They both agreed, however, that they desired to have biological children as well.

Jennifer, a pediatrician who works part-time, and Jeff, Executive Director of Christ Community Health Services, now have three biological children, Thomas, age 10, Samuel, age 8, and Molly, age 5.

They love their children. Nonetheless, they knew they had not completed their family. After Samuel’s www.augustafamily.com

birth they thought about pursuing adoption. Talking it through, however, they decided they weren’t ready...yet.

In the summer of 2008, Jennifer went on a medical mission trip to Mexico. The time away from the daily routine provided quiet moments in which to think and pray. Busy mothers value commodities like solitude and use them wisely. “I can vividly remember that moment,” Jennifer says of her turning point. “I heard God say, ‘It’s time. Go find her.’”

When she returned home and shared her news with Jeff he readily agreed, that, yes, the time had come to

schooler with fading memories of her short time in her birth country. When asked who took care of her in China, she answers, “Jesus.” Jennifer and Jeff are realistic about their daughter, however. She’s going to have some tough questions for them in the future.

They hope they will have answers for her and that she will understand that this is God’s plan for her life, for their lives, and for the lives of Cynthia’s sister and brothers. All the pieces fit.

Photo By Chris Thelen

Meet the Holtzclaws

Wes and Phaedra Holtzclaw completed their family with the adoption of their son, Brannan.

find their missing piece. God had put it on his heart, too. They got started that very week.

A Rigorous Process Adopting a child, however, isn’t as easy as just going and getting her. Decisions must be made. What gender child? Domestic or international adoption?

Private adoption or agency facilitated? And as Jennifer and Jeff testify, the process has its ups and downs and disappointments and delicious moments. It’s a carefully put together package of emotions and paperwork.

Using an agency recommended by friends who had completed an international adoption, Jennifer and Jeff chose to adopt a daughter from China. Jeff explains, “When you get approved for China, you know you’re going to get a child.” China’s adoption requirements are well-defined for prospective parents, as well. To shorten the amount of time between beginning the process and bringing their daughter home, they also decided to go the route of adopting a special needs child.

With the guidance of their agency, they compiled their dossier containing all of the information the government of China requires. Then a social worker completed a home study and submitted her report.

Soon the adoption agency began sending children’s files for them to study. Jennifer imagined a daughter out there somewhere who did not know her and Jeff or how much she needed them. “Adoption,” Jennifer says, “is a picture of Christ’s love for us. God sent His

son to die for us when we had no idea we needed that.”

Bedtime prayers with Thomas, Samuel and Molly always included a special supplication for the baby sister they were yet to meet. Jennifer and Jeff assured them that God had chosen a child especially for their family; a little girl who needed a mother and a father and brothers and a sister. On one occasion, Jennifer and Jeff thought they found her, but the placement went to another family.

Then came Cynthia. They knew without a doubt she was their daughter, the missing piece of their family. The 18-month wait to see her proved difficult.

Cynthia grew from infant to toddler in the time that passed. At last traveling to China, the entire Drake family met a wailing, confused, 25-month-old in their hotel for the very first time. “I all of a sudden had this thought,” remembers Jennifer, “I love her already, but I do not know this child. I don’t know what makes her happy or what calms her down.”

Thomas, Samuel and Molly, being children themselves, plus a box of Cheerios, created comfort for baby Cynthia. Within about 30 minutes she smiled.

Everything was going to be okay. Her adoption was finalized on March 22, 2010.

Naturally, Cynthia went through an adjustment period. Jeff recounts, “The first couple of days she would stand in one place with her back against something and observe. She was definitely taking it all in.” Her siblings continued to engage her, drawing her out a little more every day.

Cynthia, now 3 years old, is a well-adjusted prewww.augustafamily.com

Most couples, when they marry, have a picture in their heads of what their families will look like a few years in the future. That picture might include a dog, it might include snapshots of vacations and it probably includes children. Phaedra, a graphic designer, and Wes, a union electrician, are no different. Soon after they married in 1998 they began trying to start their family. Since childhood, Phaedra knew she wanted to grow up, get married and have children.

Recalling her feelings about motherhood, she says, “I really wanted to be pregnant. I really wanted to have the whole experience.”

After two years passed without a pregnancy, Phaedra began taking Clomid, an ovulatory stimulant.

More time went by without results, and Phaedra and Wes chose to continue trying to conceive without the Clomid. Another two years expired without success.

A specialist recommended that Phaedra take Clomid again. Four months later, Phaedra and Wes were told that the next step for them would be hormone injections or in vitro.

This was not good news. Aside from affordability issues, Phaedra also says, “I wasn’t at peace about in vitro for personal reasons.” Together, the couple resolved to put the fulfillment of their desire for a child back in God’s hands. Still, the years slipped by with no answer to their prayers.

The Struggle to Adopt Early on in their struggle with infertility, Phaedra brought up the possibility of adoption. She says she came to a point at which she asked herself, do I want to be pregnant and have a baby, or do I want to be a parent? She and Wes agreed that parenthood is the greater reward. Adoption, however, proved to have disappointments, too. On their first attempt, they fell in love with an infant girl being fostered by a family in their church. But this baby also had siblings, ages 4 and 12. Wes and Phaedra came to the honest conclusion that as much as they wanted a baby, they weren’t prepared to raise all three children. A second failed adoption led to more heartbreak and again turning the fulfillment of their desire over to God. The years marched. Occasionally Wes and Phaedra received phone calls about possible adoptable infants. None of the opportunities seemed like the right one for them. Until, in July of 2009, the mother of a pregnant girl called them one evening inquirAugusta Family | November 2011 • 27

Above: Wes, Brannan and Phaedra Holtzclaw enjoy some family time.

Below: Cynthia and Molly Drake take a ride in their driveway.

Photos By Chris Thelen

ing into their interest in adopting her daughter’s yet-to-be-born baby. Could her daughter call and talk to them, the mother wanted to know. Wes and Phaedra agreed to a conversation.

Phaedra is a straightforward realist, telling the girl up front that she had to be sure. “We’ve tried for 11 or 12 years. We’re not in this to play,” Phaedra told her.

“It’s going to be ours from the moment you say yes.”

Phaedra and Wes prayed. They contacted their attorney, who drew up the paperwork. They resigned themselves to accepting that if this was meant to be, it would be. They waited. In September the birth mother called Phaedra with news and a request: She was going to see the attorney that afternoon and could Phaedra go with her to a prenatal appointment, also scheduled that day, to find out the sex of the baby.

Over the next five months Phaedra went to all of the prenatal visits with the birth mother, Phaedra counseled her on healthy habits during pregnancy, she bought her maternity clothes, she acted as a sounding board and advisor for personal issues and Phaedra anxiously awaited the birth of Phaedra and Wes’s son, Brannan. He was born February 3, 2010. She was there at the delivery, when Brannan was placed in her arms. The birth mother signed over her maternal rights in the hospital. The birth father released his paternal rights about two and a half months later. Brannan’s adoption was finalized on May 7, 2010, right before Mother’s Day. The Holtzclaws still have contact with the birth mother. She receives pictures from them. Sometimes they take Brannan to see her. Wes admits that the first visit was somewhat nerve wracking, not knowing how the birth mother would react. Visits these days, says Wes, are like taking Brannan to see an aunt or a friend. Reflecting on the ease with which it all transpired, Phaedra confidently says, “It showed me what the peace of God is about; that peace that passes all understanding.” They found their missing peace.

Lucy Adams is the author of Tuck Your Skirt in Your Panties and Run. She lives in Thomson, Ga., with her husband and their four children.

Local, State and National Adoption Resources Family Counseling Center of the CSRA Adoption Services 706-868-5011 3711 Executive Center Dr # 201 Martinez, GA 30907 It’s My Turn Now Georgia http://itsmyturnnowga.com/ 800-603-1322 Wednesday’s Child http://www.wednesdayschildga.org/ Augusta Georgia Adoption http://georgia.adoption.com Open Door Adoption Agency www.opendooradoption.org 706-724-6644 Debra Bryan, LLC www.dbryanattorney.com 706-210-9226 206 Pleasant Home Road Covenant Care Adoption Services www.adoptaugusta.com 28 • Augusta Family | November 2011

706-201-5925 A Child’s Future 803-649-5724 37 Troon Way Aiken, SC South Carolina Department of Social Services http://dss.sc.gov Georgia Department of Children and Family Services http://dfcs.dhr.georgia.gov 404-657-3558 2 Peachtree Street NW, Suite 3-323 Atlanta, GA 30303-3142 Georgia Adoption Directory www.childwelfare.com/georgia Homes for Georgia’s Kids 1877-210-5437 U.S. Child Welfare Department http://www.childwelfare.com/georgia_adoption.htm

Go to www.augustafamily.com for interesting facts about adoption. www.augustafamily.com

Winter Health & Wellness

www.augustafamily.com

Augusta Family | November 2010 • 29

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by Cammie Jones

Dancing Into the Holidays

The Nutcracker Celebrates Its 40th Augusta Production

Talley Campbell participated in the 2010 production of The Nutcracker, dancing as one of the angels. She is pictured in the “holding area” on the left, in the center with her mother, Elizabeth Campbell, and in the above picture, second from the right.

D

ance Augusta’s The Nutcracker will celebrate its 40th year this month.

Held the weekend after Thanksgiving, The Nutcracker is a tradition that kicks off the holiday season for me and many other Augustans. My children are now at the age where many of their friends who take ballet are in the production, which makes it even more fun to watch. I also became privy to some “insider” information about what goes into this fine performance each year. Always so beautiful, it surely doesn’t happen overnight.

Planning and practicing for the production is like a fine-tuned piano. Read on to learn more about what goes into this top-notch ballet.

The Production The Nutcracker began performances in Augusta in 1971 by Ron Colton and his good friend and colleague, Robert Barnett, the artistic director of the Atlanta Ballet. The two-act ballet is based on the concept of George Balanchine, the legendary director of the NYC Ballet, according to Bon Ellis, 30 • Augusta Family | November 2011

business manager of Dance Augusta and Augusta Ballet School.

In 1953, both Barnett and Colton were members of Balanchine’s company when the ballet was originally choreographed. “The Coltons have produced The Nutcracker every year since (40 years) in collaboration with students from the Augusta Ballet School,” says Ellis.

There are 117 parts in the production, 48 adult and 69 children. Some of the adults have more than one part, so there are more roles than people covering them. The children usually have one part, with the exception of the Party Children who also act as Pages in the second act. A student can begin participating in The Nutcracker when they are 8 years old and usually start off as Toy Soldiers or Angels.

Amy Markwalter, an Augusta mother of three daughters, has experienced the ballet through two of her girls’ eyes. “Iris (11) started her first year in The Nutcracker as a Soldier and so did Aggie (9),” says Amy. “The girls practice, practice, practice, and they love it.”

Zanne Colton, artistic director of Dance Auguswww.augustafamily.com

ta, Ellis and faculty members of the Augusta Ballet School choose children from Grade 1 level and up for parts based on size, age and overall ability for the part.

After the Auditions Once chosen, there is an orientation meeting in early October before rehearsals which includes a contract and packet of information on all related events. “Be prepared...bring your checkbook,” advises Markwalter. Everyone warned her about the financial commitment, especially with two girls in the production. There are rehearsal fees, costume fees, makeup fees, donations in honor of dancers, pictures and many forms to fill out.

Elizabeth Campbell, whose daughter Talley participated in the ballet as an Angel for the first time last year, says that at first she found the whole process a bit daunting. “Everything, though, was systematic— we knew what to expect and were sent reminders,” she says. “Dance Augusta has come up with an effective system to handle all aspects of production and it

was not as overwhelming as one would think since the events are staggered.”

Ellis says she advises parents to evaluate all their time requirements, including any family plans, from the first weekend in October through Thanksgiving before making the commitment. That’s when weekend rehearsals begin and they continue every weekend through Thanksgiving.

A Family Affair The first meeting is also the time to sign up for volunteer opportunities. “There are two co-chairs for the children,” says Ellis. “Each chair has one year where she is the ‘trainee’ and mostly helps out and the next year where she is in charge.”

The demands on the performers parents are multiple. Each production includes appointed Angel Moms, Soldier Moms, Party Children Moms, plus volunteers to ‘man’ the upstairs dressing rooms for students once they are in the theatre to make sure all hair, makeup and costumes are done and the the students get to the backstage area in time to perform. “There is an assembly line of moms and dads for costumes and makeup,” says Markwalter.

Of course, there are also people in charge of the programs, concessions, the cast party and more. “As a Nutcracker parent, you can get as involved as you want,” says Campbell. “One job I had was to help bring the basket from the dressing room to the backstage door to gather the Angels’ wings as they exited off the stage.” Although not a taxing job, it was a necessary one.

Time To Rehearse After the orientation meeting, the rehearsals begin. Time commitments vary depending on the role the child has. “Soldiers rehearse Friday afternoon from 4-6 p.m. and Saturday mornings from 9-11 a.m. for example,” says Ellis. This is outside of the usual ballet class time during the week and dancers are expected to attend every practice. In addition to rehearsals, there are also costume fittings.

Twelve-year-old Chandler Lowe, a 6th grader at Westminster Schools of Augusta, will play Clara, the main character, this year. She has been with the Augusta Ballet School for six and a half years and has danced for nine and a half years total. “I started out as an Angel, then a Soldier, a Party Boy, Fritz (Clara’s younger brother) and now Clara,” she says.

Usually, but not always, once you move up the line and play Fritz, Clara is the next step. “I love being onstage so this is definitely a lot of fun—it is so exciting,” she says. Chandler practices seven days a week, which amounts to approximately 10-11 hours per week plus the weekend practices. This doesn’t bother Chandler in the least. “I don’t walk,” she says. “I dance.”

Chandler is not the only person from her family involved in The Nutcracker.

Her father, Bob, is part of the Party Scene and her mom, Elise, organized the cast party last year. “The Nutcracker is really a family event for everyone involved,” says Ellis.

The Experience of a Lifetime The positives of being a part of The Nutcracker are numerous. You get to work in a professional dance production with all the fun and excitement it entails, not to mention learning to work as a member of a team, learning to organize and budget time wisely and learning the value of commitment and following through, says to Ellis.

“The whole Nutcracker experience was very beneficial to the girls and our family,” says Markwalter. “I watched Aggie grow up and become very responsible.”

Campbell agrees and says that the time commitments must be worthwhile since dancers come back year after year to perform. “It is an experience—especially that first time—that will remain with your child for a lifetime,” she says.

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

Augusta Family | November 2011 • 31

calendar Courtesy Feld Entertainment

November 2011

Disney on Ice SPECIAL EVENTS November 1-13. Kackleberry Farm. Enjoy the annual corn maze, fall festive kiddie activities and more. New year-round activities include outdoor laser tag and ZIPstream Adventure, five zip lines featuring a swinging bridge and tunnels. The first of its kind in the region.

Join Mickey, Minnie and more than 60 of their Disney friends when Disney on Ice Celebrates 100 Years of Magic heads to Augusta November 17-20 at the James Brown Arena. Shows times are 7 p.m. on November 17, 18 and 19. There will also be shows at 10:30 a.m. on the 18th, 3 p.m. on the 19th and 2 p.m. on the 20th. Go to www.augustaentertainmentcomplex. com for tickets.

ground from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to provide free face painting to children while supplies last.

There also will be an off-campus open house in the Performing Arts Center Room 1 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 706- 731-5260.

November 3. Oysters on Telfair. Casual fundraising event features an evening of raw and steamed oysters, a down on the bayou feast, soulful music and a silent auction of “small works” by local artists. 7 p.m. Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art. 706-722-5495.

November 5. Grand Opening of Wags & Whiskers. Discover how taking care of pets relates to taking care of your own health.

Take on the role of pet owner, veterinarian or groomer in this new permanent exhibit emphasizing responsible care. EdVenture Children’s Museum, Columbia. www.edventure.org.

November 4. Children’s Concert. The MOMS Club International Evans Chapter will host this free concert featuring the U.S. Army Signal Corps Band Decibels. 11 a.m. at the Columbia County Library Park Amphitheater, Ronald Reagan Drive, Evans. E-mail annualpreschoolfair@gmail.com for information.

November 3-12. Columbia County Fair. Bring your family and friends to enjoy the food, entertainment, exhibits, petting zoo, shows and much, much more. www.columbiacountyfair. net/fair.

November 5. Westminster on the Road.

Westminster Schools of Augusta students will be at the Columbia County Library play32 • Augusta Family | November 2011

November 4. Fleur de Lis Formal. The Georgia-Carolina Council Boy Scouts of America will host Congressional Medal of Honor recipient Walter Joseph Marm, Jr., a www.augustafamily.com

retired colonel in the United States Army.

Marm will speak on the famous battle in 1965 which was highlighted in the book and movie We Were Soldiers, when Marm earned the Medal of Honor. Call 70673305277 for information.

November 5. CSRA’S Got Talent! Hosted by Arts and Heritage Center of North Augusta.

7 p.m. North Augusta High School. 803-4414380.

November 5. Aquinas Wild, Wild West Auction. A silent and live auction to benefit Aquinas High School. Catered by Tastefully Yours.

6 p.m. Aquinas High School. 706-736-5516.

November 10. Relish Cooking Show and Expo. The pages of Relish magazine will come alive when The Augusta Chronicle presents celebrity chef Jon Ashton, who will conduct a lively, two-hour show featuring authentic recipes, cooking tips and new ideas. Kroc Center Augusta. www. augustachronicle.com.

calendar

Fall Fun Family fun abounds at Kackleberry Farm in Louisville, Ga., where you can enjoy a pumpkin patch, hay rides and more—over 60 attractions in all.

Don’t miss the corn maze, which is open through November 13. Find your way through the twists and turns of the maze or enjoy an aerial view from one of the farm’s ZIPlines.

Courtesy Kackleberry Farm

Go to www.kackleberryfarm.com for more information.

November 11. Veterans Day Celebration.

Day-long commemorative event. Memorial ceremony, 1 p.m. Heroes Overlook. www. augustaga.org.

day Open House. Book signings, cooking demonstrations and holiday bake sale items will be included. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sacred Heart Cultural Center. 706-826-4700.

November 11-13. Christmas Made in the South. Handcrafted arts and crafts of all types. Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. Sunday, 11 a.m. James Brown Arena.

November 18-20. Junior League of Augusta Holiday Market. Holiday shopping extravaganza. Ladies Night Out Friday, 7-11 p.m.

Photos with Santa Saturday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Augusta Marriott Hotel and Suites. Tickets available online. www.jlaugusta.org.

November 12-13. Canal Discovery Walks.

Join local experts for an informative fall foliage stroll. Saturday, 10 a.m. Sunday, 3 p.m.

Begins at Savannah Rapids Headgate Park. www.augustacanal.com.

November 16-27. Holiday Gingerbread Village.

View delightful, delicious gingerbread creations.

Augusta Museum of History. 706-722-8454.

November 16-18. Fall Pottery Sale. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. JSAC Breezeway. ASU campus. 706667-4888.

November 17. Sacred Heart Gift Shop Holi-

November 19. Christmas, Crafts and Carols.

10 a.m.-5 p.m. Savannah Rapids Pavilion. www.columbiacountyga.gov.

November 19-January 7. Garden Lights, Holiday Nights. This inaugural light show, created from energy-efficient LED lights, features dazzling gigantic displays inspired by the garden’s plant collections. Stroll nightly from 5-10 p.m. (except Dec. 24-31) while enjoying carolers, warm drinks and food. Atlanta Botanical Garden. (404) 876-5859. www. atlantabotanicalgarden.org. www.augustafamily.com

November 20-December 30. Lights of the South. Christmas light display, hayrides, Santa visits, refreshments and more. 6-10 p.m. 633 Louisville Rd. www.lightsofthesouth. com.

November 25. One Table. Thanksgiving feast provided by area churches. Widely attended by citizens from every socioeconomic level of the community. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The Alley.

Aiken. 803-295-8585. robertwade@gforcecable.com.

Museum and Science Events Augusta Museum of History 560 Reynolds St. 706-722-8454.

Museum Hours: Thursday-Saturday, 10 a.m.5 p.m. Sunday, 1-5 p.m.

New Exhibit. The Museum opened its new permanent exhibition Local Legends on October 28.

The exhibition features the talent of area-wide entertainers, musicians, singers, authors, athletes, journalists and other notable personalities.

Augusta Family | November 2011 • 33

Family Fun

calendar November 2. Veteran’s Oral History Project. Brown Bag History Talk by Fred Gehle.

12:30-1:30 p.m.

Reed Creek Park 3820 Park Lane, Martinez.

706-210-4027.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Pre-registration required.

November 5. Bucking Antlers. The whitetailed deer is an animal of incredible beauty and power. Learn about these abundant biggame mammals as you search for tracks, scat and other evidence during their rut season.

Ages 5 and up. 4:30-5:30 p.m.

November 11. Skulls & Skat. Ever wonder what animal left droppings or paw prints in your backyard? We’ll learn to identify animal species based on their tracks, skulls and scat (droppings). Ages 5 and up.

4:30-5:30 p.m.

wildly out of control as three squabbling sisters try to reign in the mayhem. Dinner, 7 p.m.

Show, 8 p.m. Fort Gordon Dinner Theatre.

706-793-8552.

November 17-December 3. Eli’s Bethlehem Inn. An original dinner theater production.

Kroc Center. For times and tickets see www. enopion.com.

November 12. Finishing Touches Free Open Dress Rehearsal. Presented by Symphony Orchestra Augusta, Maestro Z and West Side Stories. Small instrument petting zoo at 9:30 a.m., open dress rehearsal at 10:30 a.m. First Baptist of Augusta, 3500 Walton Way Extension. Call 706-826-4705 for information.

November 18. Southern Soul & Song: Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out, Special Guest Nu Blu. Award-winning bluegrass band Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out perform with special guest Nu Blu, which was recently named Country Band of the Year by the Carolina Music Awards. 7:30 p.m. Imperial Theatre. 706-722-8341.

November 12. Music Festival. Eryn Eubanks and the Family Fold will host their fourth annual music festival benefiting Lynndale, Inc., from noon to 8 p.m. at the Kroc Center, 1833 Broad St. The festival will feature regional and local musicians spanning the genres of bluegrass, country, Appalachian, gospel, Hawaiian, rock, folk and old-fashioned quartet singing. Dance troupes will perform throughout the event. There also will be visual artists, crafters, vendors and fun for the whole family.

The Arts, Music and More November 1. Mamma Mia! The smash hit musical based on the songs of ABBA. 7:30 p.m. Bell Auditorium. (877)-4AUGTIX. November 1–December 30. Annual Quilt Exhibition. Portrays the history of quilting among African-American women and how they used their skills to provide for their families. Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History. 706-724-3576.

November 3-December 13. William Willis Exhibit. Works by the new Morris Eminent Scholar in Art at ASU. Opening reception November 18, 6-8 p.m. Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art. 706-722-5495.

November 5. An Evening of Theatre. Westminster of Augusta’s Fine Arts Department will present two plays, Miss Nelson is Missing and See How They Run. 7 p.m. in the Jabez S. Hardin Performing Arts Center at the Columbia County Library. Go to wsa.net for tickets and information.

November 5. War and Peace. Augusta Choral Society Concert. Sacred Heart Cultural Center. 706-826-4700.

November 10. Just Desserts. Annual Christmas concert presented by the Augusta Children’s Choral features not only music of the season but a delectable selection of desserts. 7 p.m. Sacred Heart Cultural Center. 706-826-4718.

November 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, December 2, 3. Christmas Belles. A church pageant spins

November 12. SOA Symphony Series Performance. West Side Stories. Songs of life weaving stories and connecting us through the languages of love between lovers, father and child, and brother and sister. 7:30 p.m.

First Baptist Church of Augusta. 706-8264705.

November 13. Vola Jacobs Memorial Concert. Roberto Plan, pianist. Presented by Harry Jacobs Chamber Music Society. 3 p.m.

Maxwell Theatre. ASU campus. 706-6674100.

November 15. KICKS 99 13th Annual Guitar Pull. Performances by Gary Allan, Martina McBride, Little Big Town, American Idol winner Scotty McCreery, Jerrod Niemann and Corey Smith. 7:30 p.m. James Brown Arena. www.kicks99.com.

November 17-18. The John Brown Jazz Orchestra. Big jazz orchestra performs music and arrangements of legendary artists including Ella Fitzgerald, Count Basie, Mel Torme and more. Aiken Performing Arts.

URS Center for the Performing Arts. 803643-4774.

November 17, 18 and 19. Little Shop of Horrors. Augusta Preparatory Day School’s Upper School Theater Department will present the classic musical in which a nerdish florist finds his chance for success and romance with the help of a giant man-eating plant who demands to be fed. 7 p.m. in the Hull Fine Arts Center. Go to www.augustaprep.org for tickets. www.augustafamily.com

November 20. Concerts With a Cause: The Spivey Hall Children’s Choir. An annual Thanksgiving concert presenting an acclaimed ensemble of young singers. Benefits Turn Back the Block. 3 p.m. St. John United Methodist Church. 706-724-9641.

November 21-22. The Velveteen Rabbit.

Monday and Tuesday, 9:15 and 11 a.m. Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. Etherredge Center. USC-Aiken.

803-641-3305.

November 25. Casting Crowns. Concert performance. USC-Aiken Convocation Center.

(866) 440-7880.

November 25-27. The Nutcracker. Dance Augusta presents this well-loved holiday tradition. Imperial Theatre. 706-733-5511.

Family Music of Augusta Musikgarten classes for children up to age 9.

Go to familymusicofaugusta.org or call Kathleen at 706-955-7819.

Junior Jazz Karen Gordon, instructor Augusta Jewish Community Center, 898 Weinberger Way, Evans.

Call 706-228-3636 to register.

Classes are held on Tuesday afternoons from 4-5 p.m.

Morris Museum of Art 1 Tenth St. 706-724-7501 or www.themorris.org November 1-20. Preservation of Place: The Art of Edward Rice. Exhibition features 30 paintings produced since 1982 by the noted realist with works drawn from private and public collections across the South. This exhibit is one of the most inclusive overviews of Rice’s career to date.

November 4. Films on Friday: The Lady Eve (1941). A comedic masterpiece starring Henry Fonda and Barbara Stanwyck. Noon.

November 5. Morris Library Book Sale.

Augusta Family | November 2011 • 35

36 • Augusta Family | November 2011

www.augustafamily.com

calendar Bargains on books, CDs videos and more. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

November 6. Artrageous! Family Sunday: Down Home Day. Celebrate Souther traditions and folk life with musical performance

by Eryn Eubanks and the Family Fold, basket weaving and pottery demonstrations.

• Tuesdays. Worship Dance Classes for Homeschoolers. Ages 4 and up. Classes are held in the afternoons. Call for class times.

•Wednesdays and Saturdays. Praise Stretch and Tone for Moms. Call for times.

•Saturdays. Girls Liturgical Dance Workshop. Call for times.

Sports

November 10. Toddler Time: Banjo Granny.

Listen to reading of Banjo Granny, learn about painter Art Rosenbaum and make a banjo-inspired collage. 10–11 a.m. and 11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m.

November 10. Terra Cognita: Alec Soth.

Renowned photographer discusses his work.

Reception follows. 6 p.m.

November 11-12. Symposium: Augusta and the Civil War in 1861. Registration required.

Join several cultural organizations for this two-day event. Friday, 6:30. Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

November 12-January 29. Color Photography in the South. Drawn from the museum’s permanent photography collection, the exhibit includes work by some of the South’s most important photographers.

November 13. Music at the Morris: Bailey Jerusalem Sounds. New Orleans-style brass band present selection of uplifting gospel tunes. 2 p.m.

November 13. Sunday Sketch. 2-3:30 p.m.

November 16. Southern Circuit Film Series: Welcome to Shelbyville. 6 p.m.

November 18. Art at Lunch: A Collection of Floral Ideas for the Holidays. Learn how to decorate your home for the holidays using backyard greenery, fruits, and flowers with floral designer, master gardener and writer Mary Louise Hagler. Paid reservations due November 16.

Musical Theatre Workshops and Footnotes Dance Academy 3833 Martinez Blvd., Martinez (in front of the Martinez Post Office) Contact Mickey Lubeck, director, at 706-2311759, musicaltheatredirector@gmail.com. www.onwiththeshow.biz.

Ongoing. Multiple studios for classes in acting, voice and dance. Visit their Web site for current class offerings.

Visual Praise Studios 3497 Wheeler Rd., Augusta Call Jocelyn Richard, Director, at 706-733-2926.

November 12. Southeast Regional Regatta.

8 a.m.-4 p.m. www.augustarowingclub.org.

November 14. Seventies Disco Zumba Fitness Party. Liberty Park Community Center, 1040 Newmantown Rd., Grovetown. 3-5 p.m.

Call Gemma Varnado at 706-814-2980.

November 18-20. Aiken-Augusta Fall Invitational. Regional swim teams compete.

Augusta Aquatic Center. www.swimasl.com Aiken-Augusta Swim League Swimming Programs www.swimasl.com or contact Terry Dennis at tgmdennis@hotmail.com.

Ongoing on weekdays and Saturdays. Swimming lessons for 4- to 12-year-olds. Lessons offered at the USC Aiken Pool, the Augusta Aquatics Center and the Riverwood Plantation pool. Competitive swimming programs are also available.

AUGUSTA RIVERHAWKS All games 7:35 p.m.

James Brown Arena www.augustariverhawks.com November 4. Columbus November 5. Fayetteville November 25. Pensacola Augusta Richmond-County Recreation and Parks Department East Augusta—May Park, 622 4th St., 706724-0505; South Augusta—Fleming Athletic Office, Daniel St., 706-796-5047; West Augusta —Eisenhower Athletic Office, 488 Eisenhower Dr., 706-821-2801.

Through November 11. Youth Basketball Registration. Leagues: Boys and girls bantam basketball ages 6-8. Pee wee basketball ages 9-10. Midget basketball ages 11-12. Junior basketball ages 13-14. Senior basketball ages 15-17.

Through November 31. Adult Basketball Registration.

Columbia County Recreation and Parks 5445 Columbia Rd., Grovetown.

706-863-7523 or www.columbiacountyga.gov. www.augustafamily.com

Through November 10. Winter Youth Basketball Registration.

November 7, 14 & 21. Youth Lacrosse Clinic.

Patriots Park #4.

CSRA Defensive Arts 803-221-0300 or www.csraDefensiveArts. com.

Martial Arts Classes. Ages 8-adult. Taught by a certified Karate for Christ International instructor with 18 years of experience.

Classes are held at Heights Church, behind Mi-Rancho in Clearwater, S.C., directly on the Aiken-Augusta Highway.

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.

November 1-6. Youth Basketball Registration. Ages 3-17. Available at Family Y of Augusta South, Family Y of Southside Tubman and Wilson Family Y. November 1-30. Wilson Family Y Swim Lessons Fall Session. All ages and skill levels, 6 months to adult beginner. Lessons are held in five-week sessions Monday-Thursday at the indoor pools at the Wilson Family Y. November 1-25. Family Y Swim Club Fall Session. Swim Club is a bridge between swim lessons and a swim team with specific training in endurance and stroke work. Lessons are held in four-week sessions Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at the indoor pool at the Wilson Family Y. November 11. School Days Out Camp. Activities from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with early dropoff at 7 a.m. and late pick-up until 6 p.m. at no additional cost. Wilson Family Y. November 12. Parent’s Night Out at Marshall Family Y and Family Y of North Augusta. Ages 2-12. 6-9:30 p.m. Sibling discount available.

November 14-December 8. Family Y of Aiken County Swim Lessons Fall Session. All ages and skill levels, ages 6 months to adult beginners. Lessons are held in four-week sessions Monday-Thursday at the indoor pool at the Family Y of Aiken County.

November 17. Movie Night on the Field.

Enjoy family time at the sports fields behind the Wilson Family Y. Gates open at 7:30 p.m. and movie begins at sundown. Free.

November 19. Parents Night Out at Family Y of Aiken County. Ages 2-12. 6-9:30 p.m.

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calendar Sibling discount available.

November 19. Gasping Gobbler 5K. Kids fun run at 8 a.m., Gasping Gobbler begins at 8:45 a.m. Registration is required. Warren Road Recreational Center.

November 21-23. School Days Out Camp at the Wilson Family Y. Camp activities from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. with early drop-off at 7 a.m. and late pick-up until 6 p.m.

November 23 & 25. School Days Out Camp at the Aiken County and North Augusta Family YMCA. Camp activities from 9 a.m.4 p.m. with early drop-off at 7 a.m. and late pick-up until 6 p.m. for no extra charge. Register at any Family Y location.

November 24. Wilson Family Y Nutrition Seminar: Coping with Holiday Stress. 7:30 p.m.

November 25. Black Friday Camp at the Wilson Family Y. Camp activities from 7 a.m.2 p.m.

November 26. Parent’s Night Out at Family Y of Augusta South and Wilson Family Y. Ages 6 weeks to 12 years at the family Y of Augusta South, 6-9:30 p.m. Ages 2-12 at the Wilson Family Y from 6-9:30 p.m.

November 26. Parent’s Night Out for Children of Deployed Soldiers at the Marshall Family Y. Children of deployed soldiers ages 2-12. 6-9:30 p.m. Free.

Parents’ Morning Out Programs.

Enjoy the morning out while your child plays games, does arts and crafts and more.

Augusta South Family Y Drop and Shop.

Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-noon for ages 6 weeks-4 years.

North Augusta Family Y Drop and Shop Program. Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-noon for ages 6 months to 12 years.

Wilson Family Y. Ages 2-4. Monday and Wednesday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. or Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Ongoing. Adapted Wii Special Populations at the Wilson Family Y. Individual half-hour classes (one-on-one ratio) for physically and developmentally challenged individuals of all ages. Specially trained staff uses Wii Interactive Computer games to improve participant’s independence and quality of life. By appointment. Call Claudia Collins at 706-922-9662.

Ongoing. Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson Disease Aquatics Class. Sponsored by the CSRA Parkinson Support Group and the Family Y. Group class designed specifi38 • Augusta Family | November 2011

cally for ambulatory participants affected by Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson Disease.

Mondays and Fridays at the Wilson Family Y. Noon. Registration required.

Ongoing on the Fridays. Break Dance Class at the Wilson Family Y. Designed to promote dance and culture for ages 13 and up while emphasizing Christian character values. Sessions are four weeks longing beginning the first Friday of the month. 7-8:30 p.m.

Ongoing. Tae Kwon Do at the Wilson Family Y. All skill levels, ages 5 and up. Lessons are twice a week.

Salvation Army Kroc Center 1833 Broad Street. 706-364-KROC (5762) www.krocaugusta.org.

November 4. Kids Night Out. 6-10 p.m.

November 11. Teen Night Out. 6-10 p.m.

November 25. Family Night Out. 6:3010:30 p.m.

Childbirth, Breastfeeding and Parenting Support Groups AugustaAreaMommies Contact Jennifer Stanley at 706-855-0072 or phlegalesfan@att.net.

A community for moms in the Augusta area offering support, friendship and fun as well as the opportunity to exchange information.

The group, which is part of The Mommies Network, also provides discussion forums, an events calendar and more. Meeting are held online, at local parks, members homes (for monthly BUNCO) and on field trips. All mothers are welcome.

Augusta Area Newcomers Organization Contact hospitality@augustanewcomers. com or call Susan Salisbury at 706-814-6297.

This non-profit organization helps people who are new to the area get acclimated and make friends. They offer a variety of activities including golf, book groups and dining out. Be sure to confirm your attendance at their events by e-mailing or calling the above numbers.

Augusta Birth Network (ABN).

This non-profit group is part of a grassroots movement based on the belief that birth can profoundly affect our physical, mental and spiritual well being as defined by the MotherFriendly Childbirth Initiative. By making informed choices and having confidence in www.augustafamily.com

the process, families can experience safe and satisfying childbirth. Free meetings are held the first Monday of each month at Earth Fare on Furys Ferry Road. 7-8:30 p.m. For a directory of the CSRA’s many birthing options visit augustabirthnetwork.org.

Second Monday of Each Month. Free Doula Tea. Enjoy a cup of tea and a DVD. Meet certified doulas and discuss topics including: Who should come to my birth? What are the benefits of having a doula? Why hire a doula?

Coping with labor—the doula way. Babies in arms welcome, but please do not bring children. Call to confirm your attendance a few days in advance—706-312-9855 or e-mail vegachristen@gmail.com. 7-8 p.m. at Steinle Wellness Center, 122 Old Evans Rd. Trust Birth Augusta: Birth Stories and Cinema Circle.

Not another expert, not another class. Women talking to women about birth. Trust Birth meets the fourth Monday of each month.

Steinly Wellness Center, 122 Old Evans Rd. 7-9 p.m. Infants and quiet children welcome.

La Leche League.

This breastfeeding support group meets the second Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m. at the First Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church, 2204 Kimberly Dr. Evening meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at Wesley United Methodist Church.

Call 706-737-2405 or log on at lllusa.org/web/ AugustaGA.html.

Peaceful Parenting Augusta.

This unofficial Attachment Parenting support group is for families who believe in parenting gently and building children’s spirits, minds and bodies through nurturing, attentive and practical approaches. Join their Yahoo! group at Peaceful_Parenting_Augusta or e-mail Jen at theotherbradford@yahoo.com.

Celiac Disease Support Group E-mail RoseforHealth@aol.com.

Meets the third Tuesday of every month in Suite 120 of the Summerville Building, adjacent to Trinity Hospital of Augusta. Open to those with celiac disease, gluten intolerance or on a gluten-free diet. Discussions include information on celiac disease, do’s and don’ts of a gluten-free diet and more. 7-8:30 p.m.

Common Bond Parent Support Group Geneice McCoy, organizer.

706-729-0012 or commonbond@comcast.net.

For parents of children of all ages and diagnoses with challenging disabilities but remarkable perseverance and resilience. Meets the second Thursday of each month at 7

calendar p.m. Call for location.

Georgia Health Sciences Health System (formerly MCGHealth) Mom’s Connection This weekly support group for mothers meets each Tuesday at 1225 Walton Way in Room 101C. The group is for new moms and babies looking for support in the early stages of parenthood. Call 706-721-8283 or go to georgiahealth.org.

Hypnobabies 706-312-9855 or abirthingintuition.com.

Hypnosis for Childbirth Classes. Call for dates and location.

Parent Support Group The Child Advocacy Center, a program of Child Enrichment Inc., a nonprofit organization serving victims of sexual abuse in our community, is offering a support group for parents and caregivers of children who have been sexually abused. Groups will be held the second Tuesday of each month. Call 706737-4631 for information and location. This group is not appropriate for sex offenders.

Mothers of Advanced Maternal Age (Mama’s) Did you have a child at age 35 or older? Are you expecting? This group of “older” moms welcomes you for meetings, support and play dates. Disabled children welcome. Contact Ami McKenzie at 706-364-5245 or hoopnhollar2@yahoo.com or go to http://groups. yahoo.com/group/MaMasInAugusta/.

Aiken on Facebook, contact Jennie Beat at 803-640-4742 or e-mail mopsaiken@gmail. com for more information or to register for childcare.

FAMILY ACTIVITIES Aiken Home School Times Playgroup 803-648-7042 or fourmckeels@yahoo.com.

Thursdays. This playgroup is open to all home schoolers. Meets at the O’Dell Weeks playground for unstructured play for the children and time with other home school parents for the adults. Noon.

Augusta Jewish Community Center 898 Weinberger Way. 706-228-3636 or log on at augustajcc.org.

Ongoing. The Mothers Circle. Free course, resources, education and events for women of other backgrounds raising Jewish children. Call for details.

Sign Up for Class! The AJCC offers a wide variety of classes for children of all ages and adults, including athletics, the arts, cooking, language and more. Log on to download a complete listing.

Classical Conversations Visit classicalconversations.com or e-mail Terri at

classicalaugusta@yahoo.com.

A Classical Christian Community of home schoolers that meets once a week from August through April with the goal of training their children to know God and to make Him known in all areas of life. E-mail Terri for information.

Homeschool Playgroup Creighton Park, next to Living History Park in North Augusta. Call 803-613-0484 or emilykohlbacher@hotmail.com.

Every Thursday at 10:30 a.m. All welcome.

Monkey Joe’s 368 Furys Ferry Rd. 706-922-JUMP (5867). monkeyjoes.com.

First Sunday of Each Month. Special Needs Night at Monkey Joe’s. This event is held the first Sunday of each month after general store hours to ensure a calm environment for special needs children and their parents. 6-7 p.m.

PHC Weight Loss and Wellness Martinez: 706-868-5332. Augusta: 706-7966267. Aiken: 803-649-3428. Logon at www. phcweightloss.com.

Student Plan Orientations.

Students with parent or guardian can attend 45 minute complimentary sessions by appoint-

MOMS Club Visit momsclubaugusta.org.

Ever feel like you’re the only mother who stays home? You are not alone! Come meet other at-home mothers at the MOMS Club, an international nonprofit organization.

Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) A nondenominational Christian group for mothers of preschool-aged children. Meets the first and third Tuesday of each month from 10 a.m.-noon and the first Tuesday of each month from 7-9 p.m. at Trinity-on-theHill United Methodist Church on Monte Sano Ave. Call 706-738-8822 or visit orgsites.com/ ga/trinityumcmops.

The Aiken Charter group of MOPS meets the second Tuesday of each month for moms to learn, share, support each other and socialize. Meetings are held in the South Aiken Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 1711 Whiskey Rd. Free childcare and dinner for those attending, reservations required. You do not need to be a member of South Aiken Presbyterian to attend. Check out MOPS www.augustafamily.com

Augusta Family | November 2011 • 39

calendar ment on Mondays, Tuesdays or Thursdays between 3 and 6 p.m. Call for information.

Hospital Programs

and body changes are discussed. 7-9 p.m.

Georgia Health Sciences Health System Register online at georgiahealth.org.

Doctors Hospital Call 706-651-BABY (2229) or go to doctorshospital.net for registration and class location. Pre-registration required for most programs.

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

November 1, 8 & 15. Ready and Able. This three-session class is recommended for late pregnancy. Topics include childbirth process, comfort techniques, medications/epidurals, relaxation and breathing techniques. Intended to be taken with Showing and Glowing.

7-9:30 p.m.

November 1. Autism Spectrum Disorder Support and Resource Group (The “ATeam”). Provides support for families, caregivers and friends of children with autism spectrum disorders including autism, Asperger’s and PDD NOS. 6-7 p.m. Georgia Health Sciences Children’s Medical Center, first floor, Family Resource Library.

November 10. Breastfeeding. Getting started, latching on and positioning are discussed for a smooth start to breastfeeding. 6:30-9:30 p.m.

November 5 & 6. Short and Sweet. This is a weekend express childbirth preparation course covering relaxation and breathing techniques, labor, delivery and postpartum care and much more. 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on Saturday and 1-5 p.m. on Sunday.

November 12. You’re a Big Girl Now. Girls, ages 9-12, along with their mothers, will receive information on puberty and adolescence including emotions, acne, menstruation and normal body changes.

November 17. Babies, Bumps and Bruises.

For families, parents and friends. Infant CPR taught by the American Heart Association.

Infant safety issues are also covered. 7-9 p.m.

November 29. Pickles and Ice Cream. Great for the first-time mom but recommended for all. Nutrition, exercise, fetal development

40 • Augusta Family | November 2011

November 3. Safe Kids East Central Presents Cribs for Kids. Learn how to provide a safe sleep environment for your child. Families who demonstrate a financial need will receive a portable crib, fitted sheet, sleep sac and pacifier for a small fee. 5:45-8 p.m.

MCGHealth Building 1010C, 1125 Walton Way. Call Rene Hopkins, RN, at 706-721-7606.

November 9. Safe Kids East Central Safety Seat Inspection. Four out of five car seats are used incorrectly. Schedule an appointment to make sure yours is installed properly by calling 706-541-3970. 10 a.m.-noon at the Columbia County Sheriff Substation, 650 Ronald Reagan Dr., Evans.

November 10. Weight Loss Seminar. Extra weight can lead to heart disease, sleep apnea, hypertension, diabetes and a myriad of other health problems. But reducing your weight can improve your health. Surgical options for weight loss at GHSU include gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, adjustable gastric banding

www.augustafamily.com

and body contouring. Find out more at this free weight loss seminar. Columbia County Library in Evans. Go to georgiahealth.org/ weightloss or call 706-721-2609.

November 10. Car Seat Class. Car seat safety, education and training. Financial assistance is available to Medicaid and Peach Care-eligible families. 5:45-8 p.m., MCGHealth Building 1010C, 1225 Walton Way. Call 706-721-7606 to register.

November 15. Breastfeeding Class. This 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 Health Sciences Medical Center, 1120 15th St., West Entrance, first floor, Patient and Family Resource Library.

Ongoing. Safe Kids East Central Car Seat Classes. By appointment only at the following locations: Safe Kids Office, MCGHealth Building 1010C, 1225 Walton Way and Martinez Columbia Fire Rescue Headquarters.

Ongoing. Safe Kids East Central Child Safety Seat Inspections. By appointment only at the following locations: Safe Kids Office, MCGHealth Building 1010C, 1225 Walton Way—Contact Rene Hopkins at 706721-7606. Martinez Columbia Fire Rescue Headquarters.

Trinity Hospital of Augusta Call Women’s Health Services at 706-4817727 or visit trinityofaugusta.com for information and registration.

November 5. Saturday Express Lamaze Childbirth. Helps mother and support person

Courtesy Gena Knox Media

Meet the Chef 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.

November 7. Infant CPR. Learn how to respond in an emergency situation using infant mannequins and a simple step-by-step method. 7-9 p.m.

November 26. Childcare and Babysitting Safety. Updated with a new curriculum plan designed by the American Safety and Health Institute. Course content includes: playtime, hand-washing, telephone calls, infant and child feeding, diapering, sleep time and providing emergency care. Ages 11-14. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Call to register and inquire about fees.

November 29. On Being a Girl. This class is designed for girls ages 9 to 12 accompanied by their mother, a female friend or relative.

Discussion is focused on physical and emotional changes of puberty. 6-9 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.

New: Young Women with Breast Cancer.

Meets the third Friday each month. A support group for women in their 20s through 30s dealing with breast cancer. 12:20 p.m. at

Join chef Gena Knox, author of Southern My Way: Simple Recipes, Fresh Flavors, as she demonstrates recipes from her book as part of the Sacred Heart Holiday Open House on Thursday, November 17.

Book signing from 10 a.m.-noon, cooking demonstration at 1 p.m. Call 706-826-3091.

the University Hospital Breast Health Center, Professional Center 2, Suite 205, 818 St. Sebastian Way. November 1-22 (Tuesdays), November 28-December 19 (Mondays), November 30-December 21 (Wednesdays). Childbirth Preparation Class. Four-week series.

7-9:30 p.m.

November 4 & 5 or November 18 & 19.

Weekender Childbirth Preparation Class.

Friday from 6:30-9:30 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

November 17. Breastfeeding Class. 7-9 p.m. at Babies R Us, 4225 Washington Rd., Evans.

November 17. Introduction to Infant CPR. 7-8:30 p.m.

Library Events Augusta Headquarters Library 823 Telfair St. 706-821-2600.

Story Times. Preschoolers: Tuesdays at 10 a.m. Ages 2 and under: Wednesdays at 10 a.m. (parent must stay with child).

Family Movies @ Headquarters November 12. Cars. Rated G. 2 p.m.

November 23. Charlie Brown Thanksgiving Stories. 2 p.m. www.augustafamily.com

November 26. Spy Kids Movie Marathon.

Spy Kids 1 at 10 a.m., Spy Kids 2 at 11:30 a.m., Spy Kids 3 at 1:30 p.m. and Spy Kids 4 at 3 p.m.

Computer Classes Library card required. Registration began on October 19.

November 9. Mouse and Keyboarding Skills.

10-11:30 a.m.

November 9. Absolute Beginners’ Computer.

2:30-4:30 p.m.

November 16. Open Lab. 10 a.m.-noon.

November 30. Microsoft Word I. 10 a.m.noon.

November 30. Microsoft Word II. 2:30-4:30 p.m.

November 5. Game Day. Come play board games including Scrabble, chess, Uno and more. 2 p.m.

November 5. Richmond County Public School Student Media Festival Projects.

Celebrate and enjoy the creative works of our young community. 2:30-5:30 p.m.

November 10. Internet Genealogy. Registration required. 2 p.m.

November 13. Passion Author Discussion Panel. Come meet local authors and join in a discussion of writing and publishing in today’s writers’ market. 2-5 p.m.

November 15. Thanksgiving Food Safety Augusta Family | November 2011 • 41

calendar Class. Make sure your holiday is healthy, happy and harmless. Sponsored by Honey Baked Ham on Washington Road. Come in for a chance to win a Honey Baked Ham. 2:30 p.m.

November 17. Retro Family Game Night.

Turn off the electronics and come play some board games. 4:30-7:30 p.m.

November 19. Financial Literacy Series.

Sponsored by Kingdom Financial Management. 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

November 19. Chronic Pain Seminar.

Management of pain, chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia syndrome.

Presented by Dr. Bruce Tetalman, Atlantic Medical Group. 10:30 a.m.

November 18. Word for Beginners. 10 a.m.

November 18. Internet Shopping for Beginners. 1:30 p.m.

November 9. Turkey Trivia Wednesday. Ages 6-11. 1 p.m.

November 10. Harry Potter Thanksgiving.

Ages 6-11. 5 p.m.

November 12. Charlie Brown Thanksgiving.

All ages. 10:30 a.m.

November 15. Green Science Workshop.

Ages 12-18. 4 p.m.

November 17. Brown Bag Book Discussion.

Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Allen Bradley. 11:30 a.m.

November 21. The Uno Challenge. Can you beat the Uno master? 2 p.m.

November 22. Digital Photography Lab. Ages 12-18. 4 p.m.

November 22. Thanksgiving Scavenger Hunt. 2 p.m.

November 29. HTML5 Coding for Teens.

Ages 12-18. 4 p.m.

Appleby Branch 260 Walton Way. 706-736-6244.

Story Times. Wednesdays, 10:05-10:20 a.m., ages 18-35 months (parent must stay with child). 10:30-11:15 a.m. age 3 and up.

November 9. Puppet Special. Gobble!

Gobble! No other story times on this date.

November 10. Craft Workshop: Turkey Time. Ages 3-5. Registration begins November 1. 11 a.m.

November 19. Friends of the Library Basement Book Sale. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

November 29. Computer Class. Learn how to set up an e-mail account. Registration begins November 1. 11 a.m.

Columbia County Library 7022 Evans Towne Center Blvd.

706-863-1946.

Registration is required for all programs.

Story Times Tuesdays. 11 a.m. for under age 2.

Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. 10:15 a.m. for 2-year-olds.

Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. 11 a.m. for preschoolers.

Computer Classes November 4. Google School. 10 a.m.

November 4. E-mail for Beginners.

1:30 p.m.

42 • Augusta Family | November 2011

Diamond Lakes Library Diamond Lakes Regional Park. 706-772-2432.

November 2 & 9 or November 4 & 11. Computer Class: E-mail Basics. An introduction to basic skills associated with electronic mail.

Participants must have mouse and keyboarding skills. November 2 & 9 at 6 p.m. or November 4 & 11 at 10 a.m.

November 3 & 10. Computer Class: Introduction to Facebook. Explore Facebook, a social networking Web site and learn how to stay in touch with family and friends.

Learn how to set up and manage your own Facebook account and how to protect your privacy and personal information while online. Prerequisite: Internet Basics or similar skills. 10 a.m.

November 7 & 14. Computer Class: Word Processing Basics. Learn essential word processing skills, including how to create, save and print documents. Prerequisite: Computing for Beginners or comparable computing knowledge and skills. Keyboarding experience helpful but not required. 6 p.m.

November 17. Thanksgiving Story Time and Craft. Celebrate Thanksgiving with a read-aloud story, songs and a craft. Space is limited. Groups of six or more must register in advance by calling the library.

November 21. School’s Out Movie for Children. www.augustafamily.com

Bring your snacks and enjoy a film. Call the library after November 7 for movie title and rating.

November 22. School’s Out Movie for Teens. Bring your snacks and enjoy a fun film. 2 p.m. Call the library beginning November 7 for the title and rating of the movie.

November 28, December 5 & 12. Computer Class: Intermediate Word Processing. Continuing Word Processing Basics, this course addresses editing, formatting and using bullets and numbers, pictures and tables, as well as printing documents. Prerequisite: Word Processing Basics or comparable knowledge and skills. 6 p.m.

Friedman Branch 1447 Jackson Rd. 706-736-6758.

Story Times. Tuesdays. 10 a.m.

November 23. Thanksgiving Special: Thanksgiving Story Time and Funny Food Craft. Listen to a few Thanksgiving tales and make edible mini cornucopias. Preschool-3rd grade. Registration required.

Maxwell Branch 1927 Lumpkin Rd. 706-793-2020.

Story Times. Wednesdays. 10 a.m. Registration required.

November 19. Meet the Author: Beverly Bentley. Meet, greet and talk with Beverly Bentley, author of Poetry from the Heart. Ms. Bentley will sign copies of her inspirational book, which may be purchased at the library.

No registration required.

Wallace Branch 1237 Laney-Walker Blvd.

706-722-6275.

Computer Classes. 6 p.m.

November 1. Introduction to Microsoft PowerPoint.

November 3. Introduction to Microsoft Word.

November 8. Resume Typing Using Microsoft Word.

November 10. Creating Business Cards Using Microsoft Word.

November 15. Creating Greeting Cards Using Microsoft Word.

November 17. Labels and Envelopes Using Microsoft Word.

Calendar information provided by organizations listed and subject to change. Submit calendar entries by e-mail to Karin Calloway, editor of Augusta Family Magazine, at karin. calloway@augustafamily.com.

www.augustafamily.com

Augusta Family | March 2011 • 43

Talkin’ About My Generation

Three residents representing three age groups share their reflections on family, life and fun.

by Grace Belangia photos by Chris Thelen

Dana Cheshire, 40, of Augusta,

teaches drama at C.T. Walker Magnet School and is appearing in the play Women of Troy at Augusta State University November 3-6.

Likes To: Make people happy.

Favorite Thanksgiving Food: Stuffing.

Favorite Thing About the Holiday Season: Friends.

Favorite Place To Be: Asleep.

Favorite Indulgence: Ice cream.

Message in a Bottle: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Jack Monnig, 10, lives in West

Augusta. He has three brothers and attends Episcopal Day School.

Likes To: Read, play legos, play outside.

Favorite Possession: My bookshelf and the books on it.

Favorite Thanksgiving Food: Cranberry relish.

Favorite Thing About the Holiday Season: Getting to see cousins.

Favorite College Football Team: Missouri Tigers.

Favorite Indulgence: Heath Bars.

Biggest Fear: Letting someone down that is depending on me.

Song Playing in His Head: The Star Spangled Banner.

Song Playing in Her Head: Final Countdown...LOL.

Words He Lives By: Read, read and more read.

Can’t Live Without: Laughter.

Can’t Live Without: A book.

Words She Lives By: Do the right thing.

Greatest Hope: To be an Air Force pilot.

44 • Augusta Family | November 2011

www.augustafamily.com

Anita Lee Black, 62, of West

Augusta, is married to Charles Black. They have two daughters, two grandsons and a 25-pound cat named Pudge.

Likes To: Play with my grandsons, read, cook, watch movies, play Wii Cards and games.

Favorite Possession: A book that my daughters made for me for Mothers Day several years ago—funny comments, pictures— it is a treasure!

Favorite Thanksgiving Food: Turkey & dressing!

Favorite Thing About the Holiday Season: Being with my family and extended family— and the food!

Favorite Indulgence: Russell Stover French mints.

Song Playing in Her Head: You Are My Sunshine.

Words She Lives By: Trust in God with all your heart.