Chattanooga Parent - November 2011

N o v e m b e r 2 0 1 1 F r e e

November, 2011Volume VI • Issue 9

3 Chattanooga/North Georgia Parent • November 2011

Contact Info:Phone: 423.643.8499Fax: 888.457.9602E-mail: [email protected]

Chattanooga Parent is published monthly and is distributed throughout the city of Chattanooga and surrounding communities. North Georgia Parent is published monthly and is distributed throughout Walker and Catoosa Counties. Both publications are available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. No person without written permission from the publishers may take more than one copy per monthly issue. Both publications may be distributed only by authorized distributors. Chattanooga Parent and North Georgia Parent are published by Chattanooga Parent, LLCP. O. Box 4070Chattanooga, TN 37405,phone 423.643.8499 fax 888.457.9602

The entire contents of this publication are copyrighted and property of Chattanooga Parent, LLC. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner without the express written consent of the publishers. Chattanooga Parent and North Georgia Parent utilize freelance writers, and the views expressed within this publication are not necessarily the views of the publishers or editors. Chattanooga Parent takes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or other materials.

Letters to the editor must include name, address and daytime phone number for verification. Chattanooga Parent and North Georga Parent reserve the right to edit letters for space and clarity. Please keep letters within 500 words in length.

November, 2011Volume VI • Issue 9

Parent publications are GREAT places to advertise! For more information, please call: (423) 643-8499.

Advisory BoardBecky BarnesHamilton County Department of Health

Dan ChallenerPublic Education Foundation

Mai Bell HurleyCommunity Volunteer

Shawn Kurrelmeier-LeeRead 20

Alison LebovitzCommunity Volunteer

Bea LaurieGirls, Inc.

Linda McReynoldsUnited Way of Greater Chattanooga

OJ MorganThe Bright School

Henry SchulsonCreative Discovery Museum

Ray SwoffardHamilton County Department of Education

Mary TannerUniversity of Tennessee, Chattanooga

Michael KullPublisher/AdvertisingJennifer CrutchfieldManaging Editor/AdvertisingJenny HammondCopy EditorEvan FairesDesign & Production

Contributing PhotographersJennifer BrumlowBruce GarnerAngie MarkumScottie Summerlin

Contributing WritersLiza BlairChristie BurnsSarah ClarkWayne CollinsJennifer CrutchfieldBruce GarnerShelley HeadrickLauren HuntDouglas Laman, M.D.Alison LebovitzPhil LedbetterLu LewisJohn & Jeni ShoemakerPatty StreipEdna VarnerTara VilandBadeima Waldrep

letters

We welcome your letters! If you have a question or comment for Chattanooga Parent or North Georgia Parent, please e-mail it to [email protected]. Letters may be edited to meet space requirements.

on the cover:Wayne Collins lives the philosophy of United Way, volunteering as a member of the Knights of Columbus and working for the United Way of Greater Chattanooga. Volunteerism is a terrific

family activity and Wayne encourages Chattanooga families to visit www.uwchatt.org to ask about way to involve your family in changing Chattanooga.

Photo courtesy United Way of Greater Chattanooga.

Read us on the Web (including the full page version)!ChattanoogaParentOnline.com

contents

N O R T H G E O R G I A&

Dear Chattanooga and North Georgia Parent:

It was lovely to meet you and I so like your enthusiasm. We absolutely love your magazine and are honored our city has this quality publication in circulation for our children and schools. I would like to talk with you more about a few things:We discussed my writing a letter for Parent to express our gratitude and compliments to specific writers such as Lu Lewis and Edna Varner. I believe it was in the August 2011 issue they wrote an article about failure that touched our hearts. I cut the article out and sent it to my mother in Atlanta because she had been here visiting, read the article and wanted a copy of it.Caroline Golamnobee

Thank you so much for inviting the Mos Nooga Squad to GoFest! We had an absolutely amazing day! Special thanks to Jennifer Ley Crutchfield, you’re the best!Mos Nooga Squad

Live and Learn: Enjoy turkey without all the “stuffing”

Childwise: Smart school advice for Chattanooga Parents

The Kid’s Plate: Sweet potato biscuit morning

The List: Sharing

House Calls: Kids can have reflux, too

Servings from the Cereal Bowl

History Mystery: Warriors, Thankful women, and runaway brides

Parents and schools: Working together in the PTA

Fins a math lesson in a fall leaf

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Singing on the Southside

Identity thieves target children

Battle Banzai: “Our journey begins on Main”

Beat the report card blues

Spotlight on North Georgia: The Catoosa Family Cooperative

It can really happen to you

Calendar: Ongoing attractions

The Dad Dispatch: Volunteering together is a family hobby

Because I Said So by Alison Lebovitz: Tuned Out

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Enjoy turkey without all the “stuffing”

Veteran Chattanooga educators Lu Lewis and Edna Varner collaborate each month to address a topic of particular concern to area parents. If you have a concern you’d like them to discuss in print, send it to Lu and Edna care of Chattanooga Parent at [email protected].

Edna, here. The holiday season is fast approaching and if you are like me, the turkey isn’t the only thing that will be stuffed when

the friends and relatives arrive. At my house, this includes closets, the space under beds, “off-limits” rooms, the basement and the garage. Since I cannot figure out how I accumulate so much stuff, I am convinced that people are breaking into my home at night and depositing clutter while I sleep.

Obviously, those of us who struggle with “stuff” are not alone, because the question of the month for a recent issue of Real Simple magazine was, “What is your best easy organizing tip?” Readers from across the country sent great ideas that ranged from opening the mail over the recycle bin to donning the headphones and dancing your way to a clean house. My favorite tip was written by Tara Williams from right here in Chattanooga. Her advice: “If it doesn’t make you smile, toss it out.”

I love that advice, Tara, and it is beginning to work (smile). My problem is that I smile about everything. Lu has taken me on as a project, counseling me the way she counsels kindergartners. (You should know that at any given moment, Lu’s house looks like the cover of Southern Living.) Her suggestions, below, are for children of all ages.Lu on raising kids to conquer the clutter Looking into the room where your children play can be a cause for cardiac arrest. Before you or someone you love becomes the next passenger in an emergency vehicle, bear in mind that keeping children’s things in order can be an overwhelming, never-

ending task. It is important that children learn early to keep their things in order, and research has revealed some interesting reasons why parents should make “picking up stuff” a team sport.

Classifying develops higher-order thinking skills, so why not help children put their things away, using classifying as a learning strategy? Toys with wheels, for example, can go in the red bin, and toy people in the blue bin.

So what about toy animals? Think with your child about reasons why they should or should not be in the bin with people. You will either boost your child’s science grades or add to your collection of really cute stories to share when the relatives are in town for Thanksgiving.

Limiting clutter sparks creativity. Nothing is more fun than tents made of blankets and chairs or different configurations of large appliance boxes that become second homes for best buddies. Children need space to create. Clutter limits the space for play, so think “less.” Remove the clutter and clear the way for children’s imaginations to run free. A bonus may be a significant reduction in some unexplained frustrations and anger. (Remember what happened to those mice when scientists experimented by crowding them into confined spaces?)

Some helpful suggestions for clearing the clutter:• Designate an area for toy storage. Some parents have found colored bins

helpful. Others designate shelves or a toy box. Whatever you decide, make sure your expectations are in sync with your child’s developmental age. Solutions for teens must be very different from solutions for your kindergartener.

• Be consistent. Be consistent. Be consistent. Always clean up after play; make a game of it to get it done quickly. If you know you will not have much time to clean up before you are off to pick up a child after practice, limit the toys you pull out, so you can spend more time playing but still have time to put things away. With consistency, you can form childhood habits that last a lifetime.

• Save special toys for rainy days rather than pulling out all the toys each time children play. The brain likes novelty, so a toy seen only on special days can be invigorating. These toys can be stored separately.

The joys of re-givingThe holidays are the perfect time to clean out toys and clothes no longer useful. Children find it much easier to part with toys if they think they are just too grown up to continue playing with them. And what do you do with those toys and clothes that are still in good shape? Teach your children the joy of giving.

A “must own” book for the holidays is Carol Weisman’s Raising Charitable Children. In her chapter, “Getting Past Gimme, Gimme,” Weisman’s suggests making giving a family tradition, starting when kids are 3 years old. Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, all members of the family should sort and give away a portion of their “stuff.” She recommends delivering gifts as a family celebration and following that tradition with a family celebration of each other’s blessings. Researchers agree, Weisman says, that children taught to “give” have a richer quality of life all of their life.

These tips work for adults, too. Try them with your own toys and the spaces they occupy. Talk to the child within you about finally making those donations you’ve been promising to make. (Put items in the trunk of your car, so the next time you pass a donation bin, you can drop them right in.) Start now, so that by the time friends and family arrive for the holidays, the only thing stuffed will be the turkey.$5 Off

Parent’s SurvivalMorning Edition

$15 Off Tuition

Membership not required.Cannot be combined with other offer.

Valid for new enrollments only.Cannot be combined with other offer.

Parent/ChildPreschool/KindergartenGrade School Gymnastics

Call to schedule yourFREE introductory class!

A running, skipping, twirling, rolling, galloping, leaping, jumping, head start!

7540 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421 Phone: 423-296-9001 or www.thelittlegym.com

2011-2012 Season

Expires 11/30/11 Expires 11/30/11

&

The lessons your child learns at The Little Gym

will fill you both with pride: How to reach higher. How to listen better.

How to tackle challenges with confidence and a smile.

Karen and Raney love to break through their brick wall and then they make a game of putting them

up in the closet, laughing and learning all

the way!


Parenting question? Send it to Childwise c/o Chattanooga Parent via e-mail: [email protected], or send a letter to Childwise c/o Chattanooga Parent, P.O. Box 4070, Chattanooga, TN 37405.


Lauren Buongiovanni Hunt is a certified school psychologist. She teaches psychology at Chattanooga State Technical Community

College and is currently pursuing a certification in school neuropsychology. She lives in Chattanooga with her husband,

son and family pets. The responses provided by Lauren are for general information only and are not intended to represent or replace professional

consultation or intervention specific to a particular child or family.

Praise and rewards: Kids need consistent and positive feedback when they are doing something right! For young children especially, praise is very rewarding and reinforcing for their behavior. Be sure to take the opportunity to acknowledge and thank your child for participating appropriately in conversations.

Show her how it’s done: Children love to imitate adults. Therefore, be sure to exhibit the desire behavior yourself. If you interrupt your preschooler during conversation, be sure to say, “I’m sorry I didn’t wait my turn, finish what you were saying.” Also, using phrases like, “Excuse me” or “pardon me” and “please” or “thank you” will also appropriately demonstrate these skills.

For more information: parents.com, SixtySecondParent.com

Helping Children Through DivorceDear Childwise: I am going through a divorce and want to know how to help my children through this process.Concerned Parent

Dear Concerned,The path through divorce for children can vary greatly; its effect on each child is

different, depending on the situation and the coping style of the child. Although it is difficult to control all factors in a divorce, parents can best help lessen the pain and impact on their children by becoming aware of a few important risk factors and how to address them effectively.

Conflict: witnessing conflict between parents is bad for children. Children love both of their parents and can be confused about their loyalty to each during conflict. Parents need to agree to put their children first and commit to having those conversations away from the children.

Turning children into adults: leaning on a child for emotional support is bad practice. Children are not developmentally ready to provide this support and can be left with feelings of failure and inadequacy being asked to do so. Parents must develop their own adult networks for emotional support, and remember to allow their children to continue to experience the joys of childhood.

Going easy on rules and expected behaviors: it is more important than ever for both parents to maintain appropriate rules and expectations for children’s behavior. Be sure to back these expectations up with appropriate consequences, consistency and fairness. Be respectful and loving with your child, allowing them to feel more secure while these changes take place.

Although the above mentioned may seem obvious, they are often forgotten during the divorce process and greatly impact a child’s ability to cope and progress through a traumatic time in their life. However, by thinking through these important concepts, your children have a good chance to become well adjusted to their new circumstances as time goes on.

For more information: firstthingsfirst.org, divorcehq.com, helpguide.org

Teaching Self-ControlDear Childwise: My preschooler is constantly interrupting others during conversations. How can I help her develop better skills?Pardon the Interruption

Dear Pardon,Self-control, or having power over one’s actions, is an important skill for all

children to learn. This is especially important when learning to participate in conversations. Here’s how to best help your preschooler learn to use self-control during personal interactions:

Teach her to observe and provide her with attention: Your child can learn to wait her turn to talk by observing when others are not talking. In this way, she can see first hand when it is her turn to talk. Also, providing your child attention during a break in your own conversations with others gives them an opportunity to practice “their turn to talk.”

“Children love to imitate adults. Therefore, be sure to exhibit the desire behavior yourself.”

www.learningrx.com/chattanooga-east

LearningRx Chattanooga

(423) 305-1599

Do you sometimes fear for your child’s future?

Do you know that your child is smarter than he performs?

Does it concern you that his self-confidence is low?

AnsweRs ARe A phone CALL AwAy.

You owe it to yourself, and him, to learn more about the breakthrough cognitive-based reading and learning programs from LearningRx.

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Nutrition, food, and fun


Liza Blair is arts manager for the Creative Discovery Museum.

By Liza Blair

Sweet potato biscuit morning

If you are a sweet potato fan you may already know this fabulous vegetable is a member of the morning glory family. Sweet

potatoes are a tuberous root vegetable, which means the vegetable grows from the roots underground.

Even though they are native to the tropical areas of Central and South America, they are easy to grow locally and the foliage makes a beautiful addition to any home garden or kitchen window. The sweet potato has two distinct colorings: dark brown, which produces a lovely, dark orange flesh; and a pale skin variety with pale, orange flesh. The sweet potato is not related to the African yam, although the sweet potato with the light skin and pale orange flesh looks very similar.

Sweet potatoes, especially the dark skin variety, can be used as substitutes for regular potatoes in baking and cooking. They are full of nutrients and their sweet flavor makes them an excellent choice for making moist, flavorful biscuits.

Biscuits are a great food to make with your family because there are so many steps for kids to do. From peeling the potatoes to rolling out and cutting the dough, this is a fun recipe for kids to get messy with and help prepare. The end result produces a sweet and moist biscuit. And kids will love the orange coloring of the biscuits, thanks to the sweet potato. Try this with your kids and enjoy this new twist on an old favorite as you celebrate the morning (or evening)!

Sweet Potato Biscuit Recipe

(recipe adapted from

Paula Dean biscuit recipe)

• 11/4cupsallpurp

oseflour

•2 tablespoons su

gar

•4 teaspoons baking

powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

•3/4 cup mashed cooked sweet potato

es

• 1/2 stick softened

butter

•2 to 4 tablespoons

milk (depending on the

moisture

of the potatoes)

“Biscuits are a great food to make with your family because there are so many steps for kids to do.”

Directions• Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F.• Stir together flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.• In a separate large bowl mix sweet potatoes and butter. • Add flour mixture to potato mixture and mix to make soft dough.• Add milk a tablespoon at a time until mixture is moist but not

overly wet.• Turn dough out onto a floured surface and shape until 1/2-inch

thick and cut with biscuit cutter (a juice glass also works).• Place biscuits on greased pan and bake for 15 minutes.

Chattanooga Boys Choir 49th Annual Singing Christmas TreeSaturday, December 3 • Tivoli Theatre • 2pm & 7:30pm

Featuring a musical setting of the classic children’s book “Good Night Moon,” Benjamin Britten’s “A Ceremony of Carols,” traditional carols and other holiday favorites

Special Guests: CSO Youth Orchestra & Ballet TennesseeTickets at Memorial Auditorium Box Office • www.chattanoogaonstage.com

For more information: 423-634-2299 or www.chattanoogaboyschoir.org

Sharing


Compiled by Shelley HeadrickChildren’s Department, Chattanooga Public Library

for libary information visit:www.lib.chattanooga.gov


By Liza Blair

Sweet potato biscuit morning

The All-I’ll-Ever-Want Christmas Doll

By Patricia McKissackReading level: 1st – 3rd Nella decides that she

will not share the doll that she got for

Christmas with her sisters.

The CandymakersBy Wendy Mass

Reading level: 5th – 8thFour 12-year-olds try to

solve a mystery at a candy factory while sharing

their talents to make the world’s best treat.

Martha Doesn’t Share!By Samantha BergerReading level: PreK – 2ndMartha learns a valuable lesson about sharing.

Mine, All Mine!By Claire Hawcock

Reading level: PreK – 2ndLittle squirrel does

not want to share his beautiful snowflake

with his siblings.

One of EachBy Mary Ann Hoberman Reading level: PreK – 2nd Oliver Tolliver only needs one of everything, until he realizes that by having more, he can share with his friends.

How to Save Your TailBy Mary HansonReading level: 2nd – 5th Bob the rat shares cookies and stories with the castle cats.

Happy New Year, JulieBy Megan McDonald

Reading level: 2nd – 5th While celebrating the

holidays, Ivy Ling shares her family’s traditions

with Julie.

Siblings: You’re Stuck with Each Other, So Stick

TogetherBy James J. Crist

Reading level: 3rd – 5thLearn ways that siblings

share, take turns and respect each other.

Ten Ways to Make My Sister Disappear By Norma Fox MazerReading level: 3rd – 5thAfter her father leaves the country to work in Afghanistan, Sprig and Dakota must share new responsibilities.

The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog!By Mo Williams

Reading level: PreK – 1stWhen duckling asks pigeon

about his hot dog, the pigeon must decide if he will share it

with his friend.


By Douglas Laman, M.D.Kids can have reflux, too

It’s not unusual for infants to spit up shortly after feeding, but almost all infants outgrow the problem by the age of 18 months. Some children, however, develop a

more serious condition known as gastroesophageal reflux or “reflux.”What Is Reflux?Reflux occurs when the contents of the stomach move up into the esophagus. This takes place when the muscle at the top of the stomach (lower esophageal sphincter) relaxes at an inappropriate time, allowing the contents of the stomach to move upward into the esophagus. Regurgitation, or “spitting up,” happens as the stomach contents come out of the mouth.

Reflux can occur at any age from infancy to adulthood. Physiologic RefluxTypically, the majority of infants experience “physiologic reflux.” This means they may spit up after feeding without showing any other symptoms.

Most infants between 12 and 18 months outgrow the problem of spitting up as they begin to consume solid food and replace crawling with walking, assuming an upright position. The growth process also eliminates “spit up” as the esophagus gets longer.

Dr. Laman is a pediatric gastroenterologist with Children’s Hospital at Erlanger. He is also an Assistant Professor of

Pediatrics with the UT College of Medicine Chattanooga. For more information, call Erlanger’s physician referral line at 423-

778-LINK(5465).

$5 OffParent’s SurvivalMorning Edition

$15 Off Tuition

Membership not required.Cannot be combined with other offer.

Valid for new enrollments only.Cannot be combined with other offer.

Parent/ChildPreschool/KindergartenGrade School Gymnastics

Call to schedule yourFREE introductory class!

A running, skipping, twirling, rolling, galloping, leaping, jumping, head start!

7540 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421 Phone: 423-296-9001 or www.thelittlegym.com

2011-2012 Season

Expires 11/30/11 Expires 11/30/11

&

The lessons your child learns at The Little Gym

will fill you both with pride: How to reach higher. How to listen better.

How to tackle challenges with confidence and a smile.

TipsIf your infant frequently spits up after eating, try these measures to reduce the frequency and severity of reflux:

• Hold the child upright for at least 20 minutes after feedings.• Avoid overfeeding.• Frequently burp the child.• Thicken the feedings. • Do not allow the infant to sleep in an infant carrier. This puts the child in a

“crunch” position, which can increase the amount of reflux. If these measures do not help, your child’s pediatrician may suggest antacid

medications, such as Zantac, Tagamet, or Pepcid, or other medications to help empty the stomach, such as Reglan. Warning SignsAny child with warning signs of reflux should be evaluated by a pediatrician, who may refer the child to a specialist known as a pediatric gastroenterologist. Warning signs of reflux in an infant include:

• excessive irritability• feeding refusal• poor weight gain• spitting up blood• spitting up bile (yellow fluid) • breathing problems.

TestsIf an infant shows warning signs of reflux, the doctor may order tests to eliminate other possible sources of symptoms. For example, an X-ray test known as an “upper GI” can help determine if kinks or twists in the stomach or bowels could be causing the child’s symptoms.

An upper endoscopy can also help determine if any irritation or damage may require additional therapy or treatment. With this procedure, a small scope is inserted into the child’s mouth and passed down to the stomach. While the child is sedated, the doctor evaluates the lining of the esophagus and stomach through the small scope. Older ChildrenReflux symptoms in older children may be as simple as heartburn or as severe as vomiting blood. Some children may have atypical symptoms, meaning they have symptoms that are not typical for reflux, such as:

• hoarseness• cough• poorly controlled asthma• recurrent pneumonia• chronic sinusitis• recurrent ear infections.

TreatmentFor infants with reflux, follow the measures outlined here under “Tips” to manage the condition. Management of reflux in the older child involves lifestyle changes, such as limiting caffeine and avoiding spicy foods, citrus, and tomato products. They should also avoid eating at least two hours before exercising or going to bed. If your infant or child finds no relief with lifestyle changes, your pediatrician or pediatric gastroenterologist may prescribe medications such as Prevacid or Prilosec.

Any child with warning signs of reflux should be evaluated by a pediatrician, who may refer the child to a specialist known as a pediatric gastroenterologist.

Servings from the Cereal Bowl

Bring your family to NormalPalooza!Grab your kids and head on over to NormalPalooza (www.NormalPalooza.com) on Saturday, November 12 and enjoy these great bands at this FREE festival: The New Binkley Brothers, Uncle Lightnin’, Moonlight Bride, How I Became the Bomb, Machines are People Too


By guest columnistsJohn and Jeni

Proprietors of JJ’s Bohemia

Uncle Lightnin’Uncle Lightnin’ has been a staple of alt-country lovers diet for over 10 years. They’re working on a new

record to be released soon and have been seen at Nightfall this year. This and have played and toured most of the United States.

These edgy New Southerners have a rousing mix of Brit sounds with a rock and roll flavor. Two of their six players are talented songwriters producing powerful lyrics that get a crowd moving.

The New Binkley BrothersFeaturing Matt Downer, Clark Williams and Daniel Binkley, the New Binkley Brothers are a old time string band from Chattanooga. They play originals songs and some passed down from porch to porch, so to say.The band spotlights traditional bluegrass with fiddle sawing and plunking plus a clawhammer banjo and the spirit of Chattanooga’s rich old-time music heritage. Featuring Matt Downer, Daniel Binkley and Clark Williams it is the people’s music. Downer says “I always prefer the old-time music because a lot of untrained people were doing it and untrained voices singing it.”

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ToyDangers_HalfPgAd_ParentMagCTP_HR.pdf 12/2/09 9:58:08 AM

Warriors, Thankful women, and runaway bridesBy Jennifer Crutchfield

Photo courtesy Thankful Episcopal Memorial Church


Jennifer Crutchfield, managing editor of Chattanooga Parent, chases mysteriesalong with her boys George, Will and Max. Contact Jennifer at

[email protected]

In 1838 the songs of the Cherokee had barely faded and their footsteps were still echoing along the Trail of Tears when the State of Tennessee began selling land for $7.50 per acre in land lotteries. Robert Cravens and Colonel James A. Whiteside bought most of the land on the side of Lookout Mountain and in the valley below.

Colonel A. M. Johnson came to Chattanooga in the 1850’s, began working in the tannery business and was trusted with a position as a post office route agent on one of the many rail lines coming into the quickly growing city. Colonel Johnson also fell in love with the daughter of one of the town’s leaders, Thankful Whiteside. Colonel Whiteside had both endorsed and promoted his daughter’s

upcoming marriage to a lawyer from Shelbyville when, two days before the wedding, Thankful and Abraham eloped.

Col. Johnson became superintendent of a new railroad and during the Civil War he kept his family and their neighbors safe by using railroad boxcars and moving them around the South, avoiding battle zones and conflict. Returning to Chattanooga he became a banker and led the development of the Lookout and Chattanooga Water Works.

During the 1878 outbreak of yellow fever Col. Johnson realized that the panic that sent area residents to higher land showed future demand for mountain homes and property. Thankful had inherited land on the Eastern slope from her father and they built a community called St. Elmo. This new suburb had the benefit of the new water system, the electric trolley and the Incline railways that began climbing the mountain in 1895.

Ironically, the Johnson’s daughter, Annie, eloped with Jack Betts two days before her wedding to another man. The dedication in 1890 of the Chickamauga Chattanooga National Military Park further spurred a real estate and construction boon in the St. Elmo area.

The name Thankful continued to grace the ladies of this Chattanooga family and the spirit of their name was imprinted in their community as they added Sunday schools to carry the message from their mother parish of St. Paul’s in town and their Mission eventually became a self-supporting congregation. When Col. Johnson died the Mission ended as he bequeathed the land across from his house for an Episcopal Church to be dedicated to the memory of his wife Thankful.

A magnificent organ, ornate stained glass, chimes and an old bell praise the memory of Thankful women and native stone graces the Gothic revival style church that still celebrates Chattanooga and a Thankful spirit.

An infant girl was named Thankful because she was born while her family crossed an ocean toward a new life in the colonies. Her daughter and her

grandson’s daughter would be Thankful also as Colonel James A. Whiteside settled in the Chattanooga Valley and became a pioneer developer, changing the landscape of Lookout Mountain and the valley we know as St. Elmo.

That same land had been called the ‘Dark and Bloody Ground’ by the Cherokee, part of their legendary hunting grounds. Chief Dragging Canoe and the Beloved Woman, Nancy Ward were children together and saw the Cherokee land dwindle with treaties between English, French and finally, American governments.

Chief Dragging Canoe parted from the tribe in 1776, taking his warriors and a new name, the Chickamaugas, to settle in the Chattanooga Valley. They settled along the Tennessee River at vantage points to do battle with land-hungry pioneers traveling West.

The area we call St. Elmo was the site of Lookout Town, one of Chief Dragging Canoe’s primary headquarters and the crossroads of the ancient Trading Path and the Warpath, the perfect base for marauding raids on pioneers. Rachel, who would become wife to President Andrew Jackson, was a small child moving by flatboat to settle Nashville when she heard the screams of a member of their party burned at the stake by Chief Dragging Canoe’s warriors.

The area we call St. Elmo was the site of Lookout Town, one of Chief Dragging Canoe’s primary headquarters and the crossroads of the ancient Trading Path and the Warpath, the perfect base for marauding raids on pioneers.

Thankful Memorial Episcopal Church and St. Elmo were born from the marriage and family legacy of Thankful Anderson Whiteside and Colonel Abraham Malone Johnson.

Where to take your kids:

There are several parks in St. Elmo and the heads of several trails meet there. Visit www.outdoorchattanooga.com for trail hikes and schedules. The Lower Station of the Incline has live music during most weekends and the Forest Hills Cemetery hosts Historic Strolls several times each year that make for terrific family adventures.

21 East 7th Street, Chattanooga, TN 37404423-402-8174

www.sceniccityminigolf.com

by Badiema Waldrep

Parents and Schools11

Chattanooga/North Georgia Parent • November 2011

Working Together in the PTAWarriors, Thankful women, and runaway brides


Fall is in the air and the leaves are slowly turning from green to gold. Our

children have been in school for more than two months now and we find our families busy with homework, scouts, sporting events, and PTA meetings.

November is here, and it represents a time of thanksgiving. The relationship between our schools, families and PTA is a wonderful example of something that we in Hamilton County, can be thankful for.

As President of the Hamilton County Council of PTAs, I recognize many needs within our schools and community where education is concerned. Perhaps one of the largest is the need for more parental involvement. However, we are fortunate in Hamilton County to have more than 65 PTAs.

They are made up of parents striving to make a difference not only in the lives of their own children, but in the lives and education of other students as well. With more than 42,000 students in Hamilton County public schools, there are literally thousands of parents in our county who share a passion for quality education and who strive to improve parental involvement and communications at their schools through PTA.

It is no doubt that children benefit from having parental support. Numerous statistics over the years have proven that when families are involved in their children’s learning both at home and at school that their children perform better in school. Parents play a crucial role in every aspect of their children’s lives, but a child’s education is a collaborative effort between educators, school

systems and parents. The National PTA says that “When families, schools, and communities work together student achievement improves, teacher morale rises, communication increases, and family, school, and community connections multiply. “

Nolan Elementary student Jack and Jake Summerlin won an award at the school level in last year’s PTA Reflections Arts Program.

In the October issue of Chattanooga Parent the Superintendent of Hamilton County Schools, Rick Smith stated, “The Hamilton County Department of Education is committed to creating, fostering and supporting an environment that offers opportunities for success for all of our students.” He went on to say, “We will work closely with parents, students and teachers, support staff and community leaders to focus our resources and efforts on improving student achievement.”

With the combined efforts of our school system, faculty and parents, the schools and children of our county are only going to improve. The dedication of school, parent and community leaders is essential to achieve these goals.

As a national organization PTA has worked with leading experts on parental involvement and school-community partnerships, and has updated its National Standards for Parent/Family Involvement Programs to reflect recent research and improve parental and community involvement practices.

The updated National Standards shift the focus from what schools should do to involve parents to what parents, schools,

and communities can do together to support student success.

“Parents play a crucial role in every aspect of their children’s lives, but a child’s education is a collaborative effort between educators, schoolsystems and parents.”

Photo courtesy Scottie Summerlin

Continued on page 12...

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PTA’s National Standards for Family-School Partnerships

Standard 1: Welcoming all families into the school community—Families are active participants in the life of the school, and feel welcomed, valued, and connected to each other, to school staff, and to what students are learning and doing in class.

Standard 2: Communicating effectively—Families and school staff engage in regular, two-way, meaningful communication about student learning.

Standard 3: Supporting student success—Families and school staff continuously collaborate to support students’ learning and healthy development both at home and at school, and have regular opportunities to strengthen their knowledge and skills to do so effectively.

Standard 4: Speaking up for every child—Families are empowered to be advocates for their own and other children, to ensure that students are treated fairly and have access to learning opportunities that will support their success.

Standard 5: Sharing power—Families and school staff are equal partners in decisions that affect children and families and together inform, influence, and create policies, practices, and programs.

Standard 6: Collaborating with community—Families and school staff collaborate with community members to connect students, families, and staff to expanded learning opportunities, community services, and civic participation.

As we all take the time over the next few weeks to reflect on what we have to be thankful for, let us remember to be appreciative of not only our families, but also because we live in a county where our children and their education are a priority.

The University of Tennessee is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action/Title VI/Title IX/Section 504/ADA/ADEA institution.

www.UTC.edu

Bachelor’sMaster’s

Doctorates

CertificatesYouth ProgramsNon-Credit

We Shall Achieve

At UT Chattanooga, we achieve, and so will you.

Hamilton County Council of PTAs LeeAnn Hammer, Badiema Waldrep and Susan Patton helped check in teachers at the Teacher Supply Depot in October.

Photo courtesy Scottie Summerlin

Badiema Waldrep is the President of the Hamilton County Council of PTAs.

Continued from page 11...

CG O

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RTHODONTICS

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by Christie Burns

Singing on the SouthsideThe Southside Hootenanny Band

debuts at the Battle Banzai Fall Festivalby Angie Markum

Find a math lesson in a fall leaf

What lessons from the crisp, fall days

of your high school years do you remember most? What comes to mind for you? Most adults remember experiences rather than lessons. At Ivy Academy, an outdoor charter public high school in Hamilton County, teachers strive to make each lesson experiential. In other words, the lesson becomes something that they do, rather than something that is explained to them inside a classroom.

Autumn days in Southeast Tennessee are a treasure to encounter. As teachers seek to create adventures in which their learners will become participants, they utilize the resource so abundant in our region, the beauty and marvel of nature.

In the woods of the North Chickamauga Creek gorge, geometry students carry tree field guides and pick up fallen leaves as they identify them and group them in their species. They use a protractor to measure the angle formed at each tip of the particular leaves chosen, sum the measure of all angles, log the data and then sit on a different kind of log to finish the lesson!

From there, classmates are guided by their teacher checking to see if their measurements are correct and making predictions about the sum of the measures of angle tips of the leaves of each type of species. Compare this to sitting in the classroom, listening to a board lesson, and doing a worksheet about how to use a protractor!

Which would you remember the most? Not only have the students learned how to use and apply the protractor, they’ve also learned the names of native trees, how to identify them, have reasoned about how to make predictions, exercised physically, and worked with their classmates in a group.

Art students are studying texture. In the classroom, they discuss terms to describe different textures and then they travel outdoors to the fields and woods. Searching for real life examples of each texture term, they photograph their finds. Collages of the photos form lovely environmental art. Students compose a poem describing their piece while including the texture terms they chose.

Isn’t this better than passing the fuzzy, smooth or bumpy example around the classroom? Again, learners have exercised body and mind. They’ve stayed together as a group, been patient with one another and shared equipment such as cameras and computers to get the job done.

The way we educate students is morphing. Education is moving from being dominated by book, paper, pen & laptop, out to the real world where experience brings relevance to lessons. The vibrance of the nature in our backyard makes the dynamic lessons relevant and the education enjoyable.

Grab a protractor and a picnic and find some science, math and fun with your family!

Have you ever made a new year’s resolution in the middle of September?

I did! Music is my work and pleasure and while I live in the Southside most of my work days are at the Chattanooga Folk School in North Chattanooga.

The Southside, and its families, are growing fast and I wanted to get to know my neighbors better while doing what I love most: making music.

After a little planning, a colorful flyer and an email to the community listserve a Southside Saturday morning tradition began and the Southside Hootenanny Band was born. On that first morning, I stood in the middle of the park watching tiny little musicians make their way toward me, parents following behind.

One of the moms from the neighborhood led the group in a movement warmup, and as soon as that wrapped up, my motley orchestra was ready to go. We had three fiddlers, a ukulele player, a banjo player so small he’s eclipsed almost completely by his instrument, a big percussion section, and guitar-wielding dads filling out the back row.

I guided all of our stringed instrument players and xylophonists to locate a “D” on their instruments and to play the rhythm that would match the chorus of our freshly composed Southside Hootenanny Band theme song: “Hoot...hoot...hoot...hootenanny”.

And after about twenty minutes of rehearsing our song, instruments were placed in their cases and my band members ran off to the swings and to collect caterpillars from the community garden. Dads kept their guitars out and continued to jam under the pavilion, and when it was time to go home, we left with the most cheerful song in our heads, saying to each other, “see you next week, same time, same place!”

The Southside Hootenanny Band will make its debut performance at Battle Banzai on Saturday, November 5th, at 1:15pm.

The way we educate students is morphing. Education is moving from being dominated by book, paper, pen & laptop, out to the real world where experience brings relevance to lessons.

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by Sarah ClarkIdentity thieves target children

At the age of 3, Caitlin’s identity was stolen. Over the next 14 years, 42 accounts were fraudulently opened in her name, including mortgages, auto loans, credit cards and

various other accounts. By age 17, Caitlin held over $700,000 in debt. A child’s identity is more than 50 times more likely to be stolen than the identity of an

adult. By combining a child’s social security number with his or her own name and birth date, an identity thief can jeopardize a child’s ability to buy a car, get a job, or obtain a loan in adulthood.

As a parent, it is critical to take necessary precautions to ensure that your child’s identity is protected:• Have age-appropriate conversations with your child. Explain to your child what “identity” means and why it needs to be

protected. To engage your child, ask questions like “How would you feel if somebody said you did something that you didn’t do?” If you have a teenager, make sure they understand the importance of credit and how it will affect their ability to rent an apartment, buy a car, obtain a loan, etc.

• Consistently monitor your child’s identity. You can access your child’s identity report for FREE at www.allclearid.com. Such a report will list any accounts held in your child’s name. Additionally, examine any offers of credit that your child may receive. Credit card applications and pre-approved offers could be a sign that your child’s identity has been compromised.

• Forbid “identity sharing.” Unfortunately, a child’s identity is frequently stolen by those closest to him. Family members with tainted credit histories sometimes “borrow” a child’s identity in order to obtain a better interest rate or receive approval on a loan. Though parents, siblings, or other relatives may justify their actions, such action is never in the best interest of the child. Do not allow family or friends to have unnecessary access to your child’s social security number.

Consumer Credit Counseling Service, a program of the Partnership, is participating in National Protect Your Identity Week (October 16 – 22). Learn more about local ID protection events and services at www.CreditHelpToday.org.

Sarah Clark is the Community Partner Education Specialist at Consumer Credit Counseling Service, a non-profit organization committed to helping

individuals resolve their financial difficulties. If you have questions about scams or think you’ve been targeted by a scammer, call 423-490-5620 or

email [email protected] for free assistance.

A child’s identity is more than 50 times more likely to be stolen than the identity of an adult.

Story and photo by Patty Streip

Battle Banzai“Our world journey begins on Main”

huntermuseum.org

Holidays at the Hunter

Nov. 25 - Jan. 2Explore the galleries and

see amazing holiday trees decorated by Chattanooga’s top

designers and florists.

Membership Makes a Great Gift!

Give the gift that lasts all year. Join the Hunter and

enjoy unlimited visits, discounts on camps,

classes and more. Call 423.267.0968.

Battle Banzai: Our World Journey Begins on Main is the third annual fall festival presented by Battle Academy. Battle is a public school located on the Southside of

Chattanooga at the corner of Main and Market Streets. Now in its tenth year, Battle has a student body of 440 students in grades PreK-5. It’s a zoned magnet with about 1/3 of students living near the school in downtown Chattanooga. The rest come through parental choice.

Battle Banzai is on the school’s campus on Saturday, November 5 from 10am-3pm. This signature event raises funds to support field studies for students who cannot afford the costs, a wide variety of arts programs, and general instructional needs. Attended by hundreds of students and their families, community members, and other Battle friends, the festival is a much anticipated family fun day featuring live performances, a variety

of games and activities for kids, local artist vending their wares, and fabulous food from local restaurants. This year’s theme, “Our World Journey Begins on Main”, refers to the belief that students at Main and Market have the world at their fingertips. Each grade level has chosen one continent as its focus – for instance, Kindergarten and PreK will offer games or crafts featuring Antarctica, while 4th grade will concentrate on Europe.

A premier piece of the day is a silent auction. This year’s donors include Rock City, Urban Stack, Chattanooga Folk School, Southern Star, Planet Altered, St. Elmo Fire Hall (offering a one-day rental of this fabulous event center valued at $600), A Better You Day Spa, Rachael Roes of Studio La Vie, and many, many more. Unique theme baskets from each grade level will be offered along with handcrafted arts from local artists including Cessna Decosimo.

Battle Banzai offers something for everyone! Admission is free, with tickets available for activities and food.


By Tara Viland

Beat the report card blues15

Chattanooga/North Georgia Parent • November 2011

At the age of 3, Caitlin’s identity was stolen. Over the next 14 years, 42 accounts were fraudulently opened in her name, including mortgages, auto loans, credit cards and

various other accounts. By age 17, Caitlin held over $700,000 in debt. A child’s identity is more than 50 times more likely to be stolen than the identity of an

adult. By combining a child’s social security number with his or her own name and birth date, an identity thief can jeopardize a child’s ability to buy a car, get a job, or obtain a loan in adulthood.

As a parent, it is critical to take necessary precautions to ensure that your child’s identity is protected:• Have age-appropriate conversations with your child. Explain to your child what “identity” means and why it needs to be

protected. To engage your child, ask questions like “How would you feel if somebody said you did something that you didn’t do?” If you have a teenager, make sure they understand the importance of credit and how it will affect their ability to rent an apartment, buy a car, obtain a loan, etc.

• Consistently monitor your child’s identity. You can access your child’s identity report for FREE at www.allclearid.com. Such a report will list any accounts held in your child’s name. Additionally, examine any offers of credit that your child may receive. Credit card applications and pre-approved offers could be a sign that your child’s identity has been compromised.

• Forbid “identity sharing.” Unfortunately, a child’s identity is frequently stolen by those closest to him. Family members with tainted credit histories sometimes “borrow” a child’s identity in order to obtain a better interest rate or receive approval on a loan. Though parents, siblings, or other relatives may justify their actions, such action is never in the best interest of the child. Do not allow family or friends to have unnecessary access to your child’s social security number.

Consumer Credit Counseling Service, a program of the Partnership, is participating in National Protect Your Identity Week (October 16 – 22). Learn more about local ID protection events and services at www.CreditHelpToday.org.

Sarah Clark is the Community Partner Education Specialist at Consumer Credit Counseling Service, a non-profit organization committed to helping

individuals resolve their financial difficulties. If you have questions about scams or think you’ve been targeted by a scammer, call 423-490-5620 or

email [email protected] for free assistance.

Story and photo by Patty Streip

Battle Banzai“Our world journey begins on Main”

Come for a tour!In ChattanoogaFor ages 2 – 12 • •

2020 Gunbarrel Rd. #166Near Babies R Us 423.305.1796

Report Cards are out and, inevitably, there are some surprises. It seems like

only yesterday that I remember that look on my mother’s face. We don’t have a dog, where is all of the missing homework?

Whether the report that came to your home was good or bad homework habits, preparing for tests and improving reading comprehension can help everyone. There are resources in schools, families, the internet and local Chattanooga businesses that can put the smile back on everyone’s face before the next report card comes around.

Whether your child’s grades are starting to slip or you realize that homework is finding a black hole you can form positive habits now that will allow success as your child moves into adulthood. It is never too late to improve study and learning habits.

The first step it to talk with your child’s teacher. Ask about the habits they see, the homework they are receiving and look for suggestions to raise the bar of your child’s education. It’s okay to ask for help for your little Einstein, remember even he was deemed a slow learner.

Each child is different. These trials can test the parent-child bond. Before reacting to that lowered grade remember your own “glory days”. How did you feel? How did your parents handle it? Most of all remember that your unique and wonderful bundle of joy, well..... isn’t you. There are struggles for our children in and out of the classroom that those celebrating double-digit high school reunions can’t imagine. Handle with care.Here are a few of the educational enrichment programs who are doing a great job serving families in Chattanooga:

Kumonwww.kumon.com/chattanooga-east 423-485-5050

Located at 6231 Perimeter Drive Kumon is a two day a week center, providing outside tutoring in reading and math while focusing on the theme of success. For more than fifty years the teachings of Kumon have evolved into the world’s largest after-school enrichment program. Founded in 1914 the program thrives on creating motivation for its pupils to learn on their own by building self confidence and a desire to achieve more.

In addition to their math and reading programs for school age children there is also Junior Kumon. Junior Kumon is designed for children 3-5 for those who want to launch those pre-k’ers into early student success. For our ambitious students there is an Advanced Student Honor Role program where more challenging material is presented to keep them above their grade level. Members of the Cosmic Club earn points that may be redeemed upon progress in the program. Don’t act like I didn’t check out the prizes either they range from sleeping bags and lunchboxes to IPOD Touches and XBOX 360’s. Radical.

LearningRX: Training Your Brainwww.learningrx.com/chattanooga-east423-305-1599

The Chattanooga Brain Training Center is located at 2040 Hamilton Place Blvd and work to strengthen students’ brains so that learning and reading become easier. Brain training works on a person’s underlying cognitive skills, to increase their capacity to learn.

Both children and adults are taking the steps to get a deeper meaning of the 7 cognitive skills that impact each person’s learning experience. Testing on the areas of Memory, Auditory/Visual Processing, Attention, and Logic and Reasoning are identified along with the speed at which they are determined. Individual results are evaluated by the qualified educators to plan a cognitive based program tailored for each student.

There is a survey on the website so that you can get an idea of where you and your child may need to start and the information provided is quite enlightening and they often have discounts and specials.

Continued on page 16...


Mathnasiumwww.mathnasium.com/chattanooga423-899-2011

Math. I am guilty of an adult fear of number and letters doing math gymnastics together. I could only dream that I had taken advantage of a program such as Mathnasium. It is a must for those who are not math oriented to find a way to fight through the numbers and new math without bursting into tears.

Mathnasium will celebrate the Grand Opening of their Hamilton Place location on November 15th. This level of teaching math was honed thirty-five years ago by Larry Martinek from California who found himself attempting to challenge his son in the area of mathematics.

“Over the next three decades, Larry painstakingly developed and assembled a blend of methods and materials that proved highly effective for students of all ages. Instead of relying on traditional rote memorization and repetitive exercises, Larry’s work focused on helping children build deep mathematical understanding—number sense—by honing their math instincts and getting them to think like Mathematicians”. This program encourages it’s students to come in at least two times a week, focusing on not only written but verbal instruction and consistently putting the fun in fractions!

Hamilton County Homework HotlineThe Hamilton County Homework Hotline is a great resource, operating from 4

p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday-Friday (423) 209-7755. Also, check your Monday Memo or school website, often individual teachers have online homework links and guidance so that you can keep track of your student’s progress and the assignments that are due.

If you or someone you know is in need of assistance you can also contact The SouthEast Tennessee Career Center to apply for the WIA Youth Program which offers tutoring and a variety of support services to qualified at-risk teens from 14 to 21. Erica Smith (423)643-2354

Ten Questions You Should Ask of a Tutoring Program provided by Chattanooga.TheBeehive.org

1. Who will do the tutoring?2. What are the tutor’s qualifications?3. What is the tutor’s track record with helping students learn?4. Where will tutoring be offered?5. How many students will be tutored at a time?6. How will the tutor measure your child’s needs and progress7. How will the tutor communicate with you and your child’s

teacher?8. What is your tutor’s policy for cancellations and make-up

sessions?9. What will happen if the tutoring does not help your child?10. What can you do to support your child’s learning?

It is never too late to improve study and learning habits.

Tara is a mother, wife, and multi-tasking maven. She is a producer with Brewer Broadcasting, a freelance writer and on staff at Track 29.

...continued from page 15


Mathnasiumwww.mathnasium.com/chattanooga423-899-2011

Math. I am guilty of an adult fear of number and letters doing math gymnastics together. I could only dream that I had taken advantage of a program such as Mathnasium. It is a must for those who are not math oriented to find a way to fight through the numbers and new math without bursting into tears.

Mathnasium will celebrate the Grand Opening of their Hamilton Place location on November 15th. This level of teaching math was honed thirty-five years ago by Larry Martinek from California who found himself attempting to challenge his son in the area of mathematics.

“Over the next three decades, Larry painstakingly developed and assembled a blend of methods and materials that proved highly effective for students of all ages. Instead of relying on traditional rote memorization and repetitive exercises, Larry’s work focused on helping children build deep mathematical understanding—number sense—by honing their math instincts and getting them to think like Mathematicians”. This program encourages it’s students to come in at least two times a week, focusing on not only written but verbal instruction and consistently putting the fun in fractions!

Hamilton County Homework HotlineThe Hamilton County Homework Hotline is a great resource, operating from 4

p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday-Friday (423) 209-7755. Also, check your Monday Memo or school website, often individual teachers have online homework links and guidance so that you can keep track of your student’s progress and the assignments that are due.

If you or someone you know is in need of assistance you can also contact The SouthEast Tennessee Career Center to apply for the WIA Youth Program which offers tutoring and a variety of support services to qualified at-risk teens from 14 to 21. Erica Smith (423)643-2354

*May not be combined with any other o�ers or used to purchase gift cards. Excludes prior purchases.

Nov. 22 & 23HAMILTON CORNER • 2115 Gunbarrel Rd • Chattanooga (423) 591-9999 • TWO NORTH SHORE • 313 Manufacturers Rd • Chattanooga (423) 643-8697

Tuesday and Wednesday,

EARLY BIRD SPECIAL!Friday, Nov. 25th • 7am-Noon

30% OFF ONE ITEM!

Ten Questions You Should Ask of a Tutoring Program provided by Chattanooga.TheBeehive.org

1. Who will do the tutoring?2. What are the tutor’s qualifications?3. What is the tutor’s track record with helping students learn?4. Where will tutoring be offered?5. How many students will be tutored at a time?6. How will the tutor measure your child’s needs and progress7. How will the tutor communicate with you and your child’s

teacher?8. What is your tutor’s policy for cancellations and make-up

sessions?9. What will happen if the tutoring does not help your child?10. What can you do to support your child’s learning?

It is never too late to improve study and learning habits. The Catoosa Family CooperativeWhat is the Catoosa Family Collaborative? Our COLLABORATIVE, located in Catoosa County, Georgia, brings together government agencies, community

leaders, and individuals who are family advocates. This group brings issues and problems to the table and works collaboratively to plan solutions. By working together, we are able to more effectively remove barriers that previously limited our accomplishments as an individual or an agency working alone.

We are one of the Georgia Family Connection county collaboratives, the largest statewide network of communities in the nation, which has made a commitment to improve results for children and families.

Each collaborative serves as the local decision-making body for its community and develops a plan with strategies to improve results in five areas:• Healthy children

• Children ready to start school

• Children succeeding in school

• Stable self-sufficient families

• Strong communities

Collaborative members are made up of human service providers, community- based organizations, elected officials, business & civic leaders, and families & concerned citizens. If YOU fall into any of these category groups, then we invite you to become a part of our Catoosa Family Collaborative! Please contact our coordinator, Phil Ledbetter, at the following address, phone, and/or email:

36 Muscogee TrailRinggold, GA 30736(706) [email protected]


devastation, and by the fact that it happened to them. Actually, it happens far more than you might think, and virtually all of these tragedies are preventable.

What are the odds that a fire will break out in your home? On an average year, fires in the home kill more people than all natural disasters combined. According to the Home Safety Council, fires and burns top the list of unintentional deaths in the home for children age 1 to 14.

The main reason people die in fires is that they are caught off guard and can’t escape in time. A deadly combination is this: The victims are asleep and they

don’t have smoke alarms to alert them when a fire breaks out.

The key is to have working smoke alarms, preferably on every level in your home. These wonderful devices constantly sniff the air for smoke, whether you’re awake or not. Make sure yours are working, check their batteries. If you have gas heat and/or gas appliances, you should also have carbon monoxide detectors too.

The main safety tip you need to remember when using alternative sources of heat, such as wall heaters and space heaters, is the three-foot rule: Keep anything that will burn at least three feet away from the heaters. If you have electric wall heaters, make sure you don’t have anything in front of them. Most of these heaters have thermostats that range from low to high. When the temperature drops low enough in the house, the heater will turn on, even if it’s on the low setting.

Finally, parents should practice fire escape drills with their children. It’s one thing to talk about what to do; it’s another thing to sound the alarm and physically know what to do where to go when time is of the essence. Everyone in your house should know two ways out of the house, and you should have a common meeting place where everyone can be accounted for.

There is much more to learn about fire safety. For more information, you can visit our website at http://www.chattanooga.gov/Fire_Department/4821_FirePreventionTips.htm, or the National Fire Protection Association at www.nfpa.org.

It can really happen to youBy Bruce Garner

Public Information DirectorChattanooga Fire Department

I’ve been to many house fires but one of the worst tragedies I’ve

seen occurred a few years ago in a house off Lee Highway, the day before Thanksgiving.

It was early in the morning and it was very cold outside. As the temperature dropped, the wall heater in the house came on. During the summer months the family had moved a couch in front of the wall heater, and evidently forgot about it. Before dawn, the heater ignited a fire on the couch.

There was no working smoke alarm to wake the family, so the flames spread quickly through the house and blocked their exits. When the family woke to the smell of smoke, time was already running out. Two family members survived, but a mother and her two young daughters – ages 2 and 8 – perished in the blaze.

None of us who witnessed that terrible tragedy will ever forget it. In virtually every fire I’ve been to, those who survived the fire were shocked by the

Chattanooga area emergency responders commemorated the 10th anniversary of 9-11 at the Chattanooga riverfront this year.

Photo courtesy Chattanooga Fire Department

Calendar of Ongoing Events November 1-30, 2011


devastation, and by the fact that it happened to them. Actually, it happens far more than you might think, and virtually all of these tragedies are preventable.

What are the odds that a fire will break out in your home? On an average year, fires in the home kill more people than all natural disasters combined. According to the Home Safety Council, fires and burns top the list of unintentional deaths in the home for children age 1 to 14.

The main reason people die in fires is that they are caught off guard and can’t escape in time. A deadly combination is this: The victims are asleep and they

don’t have smoke alarms to alert them when a fire breaks out.

The key is to have working smoke alarms, preferably on every level in your home. These wonderful devices constantly sniff the air for smoke, whether you’re awake or not. Make sure yours are working, check their batteries. If you have gas heat and/or gas appliances, you should also have carbon monoxide detectors too.

The main safety tip you need to remember when using alternative sources of heat, such as wall heaters and space heaters, is the three-foot rule: Keep anything that will burn at least three feet away from the heaters. If you have electric wall heaters, make sure you don’t have anything in front of them. Most of these heaters have thermostats that range from low to high. When the temperature drops low enough in the house, the heater will turn on, even if it’s on the low setting.

Finally, parents should practice fire escape drills with their children. It’s one thing to talk about what to do; it’s another thing to sound the alarm and physically know what to do where to go when time is of the essence. Everyone in your house should know two ways out of the house, and you should have a common meeting place where everyone can be accounted for.

There is much more to learn about fire safety. For more information, you can visit our website at http://www.chattanooga.gov/Fire_Department/4821_FirePreventionTips.htm, or the National Fire Protection Association at www.nfpa.org.

It can really happen to youBy Bruce Garner

Public Information DirectorChattanooga Fire Department ONGOING EVENTS AND

ATTRACTIONSAudobon AcresOpen 9 am - 6 pm daily. 900 North Sanctuary Road. 423-892-1499.

Bessie Smith Cultural CenterOpen 10am - 5pm. 200 East MLK Boulevard. www.caamhistory.org. 423-266-8658.

Chattanooga Chew Chew Canine ParkOpen 9 am – 6 pm. 181 Carter Street 423-425-6311.

Chattanooga Choo ChooOpen 9 am – 8 pm. 1400 Market Street. www.choochoo.com 423-265-5000.Chattanooga DucksTour times vary by season. 201 West 5th Street. www.chattanoogaducks.com. 423-756-DUCK.

Chattanooga Ghost Tours6pm - 10pm every Friday and Saturday. night. Various downtown locations. www.chattanoogaghosttouts.com. 423-821-7125.

Chattanooga Nature CenterOpen 9 am - 5 pm. 400 Garden Road. www.chattanooganaturecenter.org. 423-821-1160.

Chattanooga-Hamilton County Bicentennial Library

1001 Broad Street. 9 am - 9 pm Monday & Tuesday; 9 am - 7 pm Wednesday & Thursday; 9 am - 6 pm Friday & Saturday. www.lib.chattanooga.gov. 423-757-5310.

The Chattanooga Zoo at Warner ParkOpen 9 am – 5 pm. 301 North Holtzclaw Avenuewww.chattzoo.org. 423-667-1319.

Chattown Skate ParkOpen 4 pm – 10 pm. 1801 Carter Street. 423-757-2076.

Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military ParkOpen 8:30 am – 5 pm. Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia706-866-9241. www.nps.gov/chch.

Coolidge Park CarouselOpen 11 am – 6:30 pm. 150 River Street. 423-595-4485, 425-6311. www.chattanooga.gov.

Crabtree FarmsOpen 10 am – 5 pm. 1000 East 30th Street. www.crabtreefarms.org. 423-493-9155.

Creative Discovery Museum 321 Chestnut Street www.cdmfun.org 423-756-2738.

East Ridge City Library10am - 8:30pm. 1517 Tombras Avenue East

Ridge, TN 423-867-7323.

Greenway Farm Dog ParkOpen daily sunrise to sunset. 5051 Gann Store Rd. www.Chattanooga.gov.

The Houston Museum of Decorative ArtsGuided tours 9:30 a.m.–4 p.m. Monday through Friday. 201 High St. 423-276-7176. TheHoustonMuseum.com.

Hunter Museum of American ArtNoon–5 p.m. Sunday; 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday; noon–5 p.m. Wednesday; 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Thursday. Children under 3 free every day. Children 13 and under free weekends and holidays. 10 Bluff View. www.HunterMuseum.org. 423-267-0968.

IMAX 3D TheaterTheater 201 Chestnut St. Tennis.org 266-4629.

Incline Railway8:30 a.m.–6:20 p.m. Monday–Friday; 8:30 a.m.–8:50 p.m. weekends. 3917 St. Elmo Ave. www.LookoutMountainAttractions.com. 423-821-4224.

12th Annual North Pole LimitedTennessee Valley Railroad Museum. 5:45 PM.

Featured Listings for The Holidays

Welcome Yule Choral Arts

December 9 at 7:30 pm2nd Presbyterian Church

700 Pine St., ChattanoogaChoralArtsOfChattanooga.org

The NutcrackerBallet Tennessee

December 16 & 17 at 8 pmDecember 18 at 2 pm

Hayes Concert HallUTC Fine Arts CenterBalletTennessee.org

Singing Christmas TreeChattanooga Boys Choir

December 3 at 2 pmand 7:30 pmTivoli Theatre

Downtown ChattanoogaChattanoogaBoysChoir.org

Continued on next page...

Events continued November 1 – 30, 2011

Visit ChattanoogaParentOnline.com for a complete listing of family-friendly events!

Send calendar submissions to [email protected].

Tennessee Valley Railroad Musuem 4119 Cromwell Rd. All trains will depart from depot. www.tvrail.com / 423-894-8028

Reflection Riding Arboreum & Botanical Garden9 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Saturday; 1–5 p.m.Sunday. 400 Garden Rd. www.ReflectionRiding.org. 423-821-9582.

Rock City Gardens8:30 a.m.–8 p.m. daily. 1400 Patten Rd. Lookout Mountain, Ga. www.SeeRockCity.com. 706-820-2531 or 800-854-0675.

Ruby Falls8 a.m.–8 p.m. daily. 1720 South Scenic Hwy. www.RubyFalls.com. 423-821-2544.

The Sinks Disc Golf CourseFree & open daily, dawn to dark. Off Access Road, across from DuPont. www.ChattanoogaDiscGolf.com.

Southern Belle RiverboatVisit website for daily cruise schedule. 201 Riverfront Pkwy., Pier 2. www.ChattanoogaRiverboat.com. 423-266-4488 or 800-766-2784.

Tennessee Aquarium10 a.m.–6 p.m. daily. 1 Broad St. www.TNAqua.org. 423-267-3474.

Tennessee Valley Railroad MuseumVisit website for daily train schedule. 4119 Cromwell Rd. www.TVRail.com. 423-894-8028.

Vaudeville CafeChildren’s show 1 p.m. Saturdays. Visit website for other show schedules. Vaudeville Café: Murder Mystery Dinner Shows. 138 Market St.FunnyDinner.com. 423-517-1839.

The Walnut WallCall for hours. Coolidge Park. www.TheAdventureGuild.com. 423-266-5709.

Choral Arts of Chattanooga Friday, December 9 at 7:30 pm

Second Presbyterian Church ❧ 700 Pine Street, Chattanooga

Welcome, Yule!

A Holiday Concert featuring Seven Joys of Christmas by Kirke Mechem and music by Pachelbel, Brahms, Mendelssohn,

Poulenc, Rheinberger, Sweelick, Victoria, and others.

ADULTS: $15 ❧ STUDENTS: $5 ❧ UNDER 12: FREETickets may be purchased at the door or in advance online via PayPal

at www.choralartsofchattanooga.org

For more information, follow us at www.facebook.com/ChoralArts

Singers welcome! Contact [email protected] to schedule an audition.

BA L L ET T E N N E S S E EPRESENTS

Nutcracker

Guest Artists:

Fredrick Davis Dance Theatre of Harlem

Sean HiltonNorthwest Florida Ballet

December 16 & 17, 8PMDecember 18, 2PM

Hayes Concert Hall, UTC Fine Arts Center

Tickets On Sale December 1Box Office: 423-425-4269 ● www.utc.edu/finearts

For more information visit BalletTennessee.org

and


By Wayne Collins

Volunteering together is a family hobby

do you care about and why do you want to support them? That’s good stuff you ought to know!

I’ve always thought it ironic that this time of year - a time that’s made its reputation on “family togetherness” - can be one of the most distracting and disconnecting times for families. Between the uncompromising demands of individual calendars, the food not made and the presents not purchased, and the parties not planned, there’s not a lot of time left for chilling and connecting with the people who occupy your bathrooms and couches every day.

But it doesn’t have to be that way, and sometimes, simple things you can do together to give back to the community where you live can bring your family closer in ways that you never thought. Try it! You can thank me later.

Think holidays, and one of the inevitable images that comes to mind is smiling

people doing a good turn for someone through volunteering. That is an excellent thing. A gift of time toward a cause that you feel strongly about can pay dividends far beyond the obvious benefit to the organization you serve.

That’s particularly true if you’re in a position to turn volunteerism into a family affair.

In fact, volunteerism is a pretty popular family activity these days. The range of activities and organizations aggressively recruiting family help is tremendous. From simple things like collecting for a food pantry to wild and exotic “luxury volunteer” excursions, there’s a flavor of service for every taste and, where applicable, budget.

It is a habit I’d like to cultivate with my two little munchkinettes (we have a toddler

and an infant!) and have already taken baby steps in that direction by letting our daughter put the money in the collection basket at church. It’s a simple thing, but it teaches a great lesson.

My work helps me see the opportunity to benefit from volunteerism. At the United Way of Greater Chattanooga my work puts me in the trenches of community improvement and the importance of volunteerism while my involvement in the Knights of Columbus keeps me grounded in the principles of charity and Catholic social doctrine.

So, it’s my livelihood and my hobby but you don’t need a background to get engaged with a cause your whole family can support.

And, the fact is, your family will be better for it. Volunteering together can help families learn about social issues, puts you in touch with people you may not meet otherwise and gives you new perspective on an issue. Besides making your community a better place, you’re bringing your family closer together, and what dad doesn’t want that?

Like me, you want to raise socially responsible kids, right? Here’s a chance for you to lead by example. Beyond that, organized volunteerism can teach your kids to make good choices, fill their time wisely, and give them a sense of responsibility and accomplishment that can spill over into their adult lives.

No time? You might be surprised. Sure, you’re over-scheduled, we all are, but maybe all you need to do is rethink your free time as a family. How absolutely cool would it be to establish a family volunteering tradition at this, (or any time) of year? Maybe it’s spending a Saturday at church making food baskets for people in need or walking together with a charity.

Be as creative as you like! Organized volunteer activity is something everyone can look forward to, can create special memories everyone will hang on to, and, if you’re honest, there are probably less-enriching activities on your schedule that you can jettison to make the time.

Don’t worry! You’re not alone in getting into this. Besides the innumerable resources out there on the Internet, there are also real, professional folks who can help, like (shameless plug alert) United Way’s Volunteer Center (LiveUnitedChattanooga.org/volunteer). They can give you ideas for projects to do and help you get started.

You need to answer a few questions but that’s a great family discussion at dinner. Where do your family’s interests lie? What skills can each of you offer? What causes

Wayne is the Vice President of Marketing/Communications at the United Way of Greater Chattanooga and celebrates his role as father

to two young Chattanooga ladies.

“I’ve always thought it ironic that this time of year - a time that’s made its reputation on ‘family togetherness’ - can be one of the most distracting and disconnecting times for families.”

Wayne can often be seen in the trenches volunteering as a family hobby., supported by his wife and their daughters.

Choral Arts of Chattanooga Friday, December 9 at 7:30 pm

Second Presbyterian Church ❧ 700 Pine Street, Chattanooga

Welcome, Yule!

A Holiday Concert featuring Seven Joys of Christmas by Kirke Mechem and music by Pachelbel, Brahms, Mendelssohn,

Poulenc, Rheinberger, Sweelick, Victoria, and others.

ADULTS: $15 ❧ STUDENTS: $5 ❧ UNDER 12: FREETickets may be purchased at the door or in advance online via PayPal

at www.choralartsofchattanooga.org

For more information, follow us at www.facebook.com/ChoralArts

Singers welcome! Contact [email protected] to schedule an audition.

BaylorLeadsAdmission Test Date: January 7, 2012 | www.baylorschool.org | (423) 267-8505

BaylorPrepares“Before Baylor I thought

it would be hard to get into the college of my dreams. instead, I had more collegeacceptances and choices than I ever dreamed!”

Tuned Out


Got feedback for Alison? Contact her via e-mail at [email protected] or post feedback to her column

at ChattanoogaParentMagazine.com.

in elementary school I got my first real stereo that played cassette tapes and records and I spent hours in my room dancing to Donna Summer and the other disco divas. In middle school and high school I would use that same stereo system to make millions of “mix tapes.” Mix tapes were my life. Unlike today’s playlist that can be effortlessly and instantly created in a matter of minutes, the mix tape was a time-consuming, hands-on, personal investment that required the utmost patience and perfection.

I took my first boom box to college, and during my junior year these things called “CDs” came out and music as we knew it would never be the same. It was crisp and clear and simple to store, and you

could easily skip over songs or repeat the ones you loved over and over and over again. It was revolutionary.

But even though the methods of playing music have changed over time, my love and need for music has been a constant. Bands that I longed for and listened to when I was 12 – like U2, The Police, Prince, and Queen – are still the ones on my iPod today. I have found new bands to love and lose along the way, and try to remain open to the possibility that the music my kids listen to this week may very well be the music they choose

to listen to when they are my age. Of course, I still remind them that just because you’ve got the moves like Jagger, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can sing like him.

And every so often, when none of us can agree on a single song on the radio, I plug in my iPod, pull up my own playlist and then proceed to reminisce about each song we hear. This is from the first album I ever bought; This is from the concert I went to on my 21st birthday; This is the only song I ever sang on a stage in front of an audience. I then say to my kids, “I want you to understand that all of these songs have meaning and memories attached to them. When I listen to them it’s like I am back in that time and place all over again. Does that make sense?” And they stare at me and for a moment they are quiet. And for that moment I am convinced they actually get it. And then inevitably one of them lets out a sigh and says, “That’s great, Mom. Can we listen to our music now?”

And on that note, the request line is open once again.

It’s been a long time since I took my driver’s test, but for some reason I don’t recall there being a

section of either the written or practical part that prepares you for the one skill that every parent must ultimately learn to perfect – the ability to drive and DJ at the same time.

Yes, no matter where we are going or how long we happen to be in the car, my children will constantly command that I change the channel, or suggest that I switch the song or cry out, “For the love of Lady Gaga, we cannot stand listening to that 80’s station for one more minute!” So, I spend half my time navigating the roads and the other half navigating the airwaves for something we can all agree upon. And the latter is not as easy as it sounds. That’s mainly because the songs we typically agree upon are rare finds amongst the songs that I have forbidden them to listen to. Call me crazy, but I don’t think a seven, nine or eleven year old should be singing lyrics like, “Girl, look at that body,” or “You make me feel like I’m livin’ a teenage dream.” (I know, a bit hypocritical coming from a woman who spent her formative years listening to Meatloaf and Madonna.)

So the basic formula is this: I drive and DJ, while the boys dictate their demands, and the whole situation turns into a frenetic game of Frogger, except instead of dodging cars and trucks I am avoiding Snoop Dogg and Katy Perry.

Music has always been an important part of my life. My first concert was Mac Davis in 1975. I was five years old and spent the entire show dancing in the aisle, convinced he was singing just for me. When I was

“For the love of Lady Gaga, we cannot stand listening to that 80’s station for one more minute!” So, I spend half my time navigating the roads and the other half navigating the airwaves for something we can all agree upon.

Tuned Out


in elementary school I got my first real stereo that played cassette tapes and records and I spent hours in my room dancing to Donna Summer and the other disco divas. In middle school and high school I would use that same stereo system to make millions of “mix tapes.” Mix tapes were my life. Unlike today’s playlist that can be effortlessly and instantly created in a matter of minutes, the mix tape was a time-consuming, hands-on, personal investment that required the utmost patience and perfection.

I took my first boom box to college, and during my junior year these things called “CDs” came out and music as we knew it would never be the same. It was crisp and clear and simple to store, and you

could easily skip over songs or repeat the ones you loved over and over and over again. It was revolutionary.

But even though the methods of playing music have changed over time, my love and need for music has been a constant. Bands that I longed for and listened to when I was 12 – like U2, The Police, Prince, and Queen – are still the ones on my iPod today. I have found new bands to love and lose along the way, and try to remain open to the possibility that the music my kids listen to this week may very well be the music they choose

to listen to when they are my age. Of course, I still remind them that just because you’ve got the moves like Jagger, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can sing like him.

And every so often, when none of us can agree on a single song on the radio, I plug in my iPod, pull up my own playlist and then proceed to reminisce about each song we hear. This is from the first album I ever bought; This is from the concert I went to on my 21st birthday; This is the only song I ever sang on a stage in front of an audience. I then say to my kids, “I want you to understand that all of these songs have meaning and memories attached to them. When I listen to them it’s like I am back in that time and place all over again. Does that make sense?” And they stare at me and for a moment they are quiet. And for that moment I am convinced they actually get it. And then inevitably one of them lets out a sigh and says, “That’s great, Mom. Can we listen to our music now?”

And on that note, the request line is open once again.

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K –12 T H G RA D E S • SAT & A C T P R E P • H O M E W O R K H E L P • S U M M E R P R O G RA M S

Chattanooga Parent - November 2011

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