the mcm a grr-ific playbook - mschildrensmuseum.org€¦ · pbs kids television series –...

Nonprofit OrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDJackson, MS 39201

Permit No. 219

THE MCM

PLAYBOOKA GRR-IFICSUMMER

TAKE FLIGHT MISSISSIPPI

LONG LIVEWONDER

SUMMER 2019 • VOLUME 4 • ISSUE 2

Every morning, Daniel Tiger puts on his red sweater, ties his shoes, and invites a new generation of children into the Neighborhood of Make-Believe. The Mississippi Children’s Museum (MCM) shares Daniel’s love of play and imagination and has dreamed of giving children in our region the opportunity to walk in Daniel’s magical neighborhood. From now through September 8th, MCM is making this dream a reality by presenting Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: A Grr-ific Exhibit! This magical exhibit brings to life the common themes presented in the award-winning, PBS Kids television series – communication skills, emotional intelligence, and community engagement, all of which are skills that enable young children to understand their feelings and those of their neighbors. Visitors to the exhibit walk the sidewalks and hear the sounds of Daniel’s world as they encounter the meaning of empathy, gratitude, sharing and diversity in an environment of creative and interactive play. Along with the emotional lessons gleaned in Daniel’s Neighborhood, visitors have the opportunity to transform into their favorite characters with masks and costumes, compose songs or play along with one-of-a-kind instruments, cozy up with a good book in O the Owl’s Reading Nest, and so much more. Come spend your summer in Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood of Make-Believe, where children can collaborate to solve problems, use their imaginations to transform their surroundings, and play along with Daniel’s melodic strategies all while learning life’s little lessons. As Daniel would say, it’s going to be a grr-ific summer at MCM!

Held in the Gertrude C. Ford Exhibition Hall

SPONSORED LOCALLY BY

The Barksdale Reading Institute • Selby & Richard McRae Foundation

The Radio People of Jackson

MCM WELCOMES DANIEL TIGER!

What will you discover in the

Neighborhood ofMake-Believe?

Created by Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh in partnership with the Fred Rogers Company.DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD © 2019 The Fred Rogers Company. All rights reserved.

P.O. BOX 55409 JACKSON, MS 39296

2 | MISSISSIPPI CHILDREN’S MUSEUM | SUMMER 2019 • PLAYBOOK

PLAY @ MCM 3-7

FACES OF MCM 10-11

MCM PARTNERS 12

LEFLEUR MUSEUM DISTRICT 13

MCM-MERIDIAN REPORT 8-9

MCM-TO-GO 15

CALENDAR 16

CONTENTS

QUARTERLY DONORS 14

THE MCM PLAYBOOKSUMMER 2019 • VOLUME 4 • ISSUE 2

PUBLISHED BYMississippi Children’s Museum

Editor Susan BransonDesign Director Marion Steckler

Designer & Photographer Lori NesbittWriter Lindsey W. Harris

Photographer Lindsay McMurtray

2018-19 BOARD OF DIRECTORSJohn Fletcher, Chairman

Alicen BlanchardDonna Bruce

Melanie BurrowKaren Bush

Terry Dale CruseMargaret Cupples

Lisa DidionJeffrey GravesBeth HansenWilson HoodOlivia HostMartin Jue

Maggi LamptonStaci McNinchAshley Meena

Melanie Morgan Adams Yerger, IV

Camille Young

Ex-Officio MemberSusan Garrard, President/CEO


At MCM, we know that play builds the foundation for a lifetime of learning. After all, our motto is: “We take fun seriously!” Because we take fun so seriously, we have dedicated this edition of the MCM Playbook to the importance of play and how we seek to implement this invaluable objective throughout the experiences we provide! The benefits of play begin as early as infanthood, and while play generally decreases over childhood, it never really ends – it simply changes forms according to the needs and skills of children (and eventually, adults) at any given age, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. This is why MCM is dedicated to providing impactful, playful programing for children of all ages and stages of development. From ABC Come Play with Me for our youngest visitors to Tinker with Tuesday for children in upper elementary school, MCM is a place where children can truly grow their way through our programming! Developmentally appropriate play with peers and parents helps to promote the type of social, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral skills that aid a healthy and well-functioning, growing brain. MCM’s exhibits have been mindfully curated and designed to provide caregivers the opportunity to play with and alongside their children. We believe that this type of playful interaction between child and adult provides wonderful guided-play opportunities, which can assist children in reaching different types of educational objectives.

While parents and caregivers often worry that their children will be disadvantaged if not engaged in some sort of constant learning, MCM adheres to the belief that imaginative play is the best source of preparation for a child’s academic and social success; play-based learning truly sets the stage for future academic learning.

From “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: A Grr-ific Exhibit” to new summer programming, it’s going to be an exciting summer at MCM. Give your child the opportunity to tap into the incredible, undeniable power of play by visiting us today!

PLAYPLAYTHE IMPORTANCE OF


At MCM, we believe that learning can be a fun and entertaining experience for children, and this is the guiding principle we apply to every exhibit and program throughout the museum. Monique Ealey is MCM’s Director of Education and Programs, and one of her top priorities is to ensure that we are providing educational experiences that are centered around play-based learning. “Play is so important for children and their development, because it allows them real, hands-on opportunities to explore the world, identify their interests, and gain new skills,” Ealey says. “We take fun seriously, but we also take learning seriously – to be able to combine play and learning in our exhibits and programming is what makes MCM so special.”

Among her many favorite museum exhibits, MCM’s traveling exhibit Story to Stage stands out because it not only promotes play, but also encourages imaginative play. Ealey says, “At Story to Stage, children get to read stories, put on costumes, and use puppets and instruments to bring their stories to life. In the process of playing and being creative, they are learning how to piece together a narrative and how to work together!” For a complete list of MCM’s fun and educational exhibits, please visit mschildrenmuseum.org/discover!

PLAY-BASED EXPERIENCES“We take fun seriously, but we also take learning seriously”

SPLASH PAD PLAYIs there anything more fun than playing in the water on a hot, summer day? We think not! Open daily — weather-permitting – from May 18th through September 1st, MCM has the perfect, cool-down solution in our state-of-the-art Splash Pad located on the C Spire Plaza in front of the museum! In addition to the benefits of cooling down and getting exercise, there are lots of great reasons to play in our Splash Pad this summer. Water play provides a rich sensory experience for developing children; and while they are busy having fun, children can also begin to learn about and experiment with the physics of water as they turn different nozzles on and off by stepping on the buttons!

With MCM’s Splash Pad provided by C Spire, there is no instruction necessary – we simply turn it on and allow our visitors to learn and have fun while they splash!


PLAY in the Literacy GardenInteractive and collaborative play isn’t just limited to the indoors at MCM – The Literacy Garden presented by Gertrude C. Ford gives children and caregivers a fun, outdoor space to explore nature and exhibits in a hands-on and carefree way. Surrounded by custom designed sculptures and innovative technology, children and their families can really let their imaginations run wild! The Literacy Garden is equipped with everything a child might need to make their daydreams come to life. From our Tall Tale Treehouse to bins filled with hula hoops and sidewalk chalk, The Literacy Garden at MCM is the perfect outdoor escape!

MCM’s Pollinator’s Playground is a free, public space where children and adults can go to relax, play, and learn about the role of pollinators in our everyday life. Gifted to the museum by the Garden Club of Jackson, Pollinator’s Playground serves as a living, learning laboratory where children can observe our many pollinator friends that cohabitate in the garden to maintain the health of our local ecosystems! “Research shows that children play more creatively and cooperatively in green areas and even show reduced stress after playing outside,” says Cheryl Dow, Past-President and Conservation Chairman of the Garden Club of Jackson. “Nature fosters creativity, problem-solving and intellectual growth, and I am so glad to have had a part in providing this special space for MCM!” Pollinator’s Playground was sponsored by the Mapp Family Foundation, as well as the Garden Club of Jackson.

PLAY in the Pollinator’s Playground


The mark of a truly wonderful place is its ability to bring people together from all walks of life. MCM is so happy to have been this place for a special group of families we lovingly refer to as, “The MCM Friday Friends.” For Sarah Young, it all started in August of 2011 when she was given the opportunity to care for her granddaughter, Hattie, on a daily basis. As a retired educator, she immediately sought out opportunities for education and socialization, which initially lead them to the Flowood Library where they befriended Ann and her mother, Nickie and August and her mother, Kathy. MCM soon became this group’s destination of choice, and it wasn’t long before Dean and his grandmother, Jane, joined in on the fun! “These kiddos started participating in MCM’s weekly program, ABC Come Play with Me, and have since moved along to age appropriate programs, which turned into our Friday afternoon museum dates,” explains Sarah. “Other children have been a part of our group at

FRIDAY FRIENDSTHE MCM

Play with parents sets the stage for children’s ability to successfully play with their peers, and that’s exactly what our infant and toddler program, ABC Come Play with Me, is all about! This program is for our youngest museum visitors and aims to introduce guided-play and self-directed play from an early age – MCM likes to start ‘em young, you might say! We include a wide range of activities in this program: from finger painting, to reading books, to playing in the garden, and more. At MCM, we believe in the value of learning how to engage infants and toddlers with age-appropriate activities to prepare them for pre-school, while also allowing them to have creative discovery and interaction with other children. MCM takes pride in providing programming for all ages of visitors, so bring your little ones to play with us on Wednesday mornings at 10:00 am!

COME PLAY WITH MEABC

“Georgia-Pacific (GP) is extremely proud to partner with MCM for Tinker with Tuesday. This type of educational programming is essential as it promotes the STEAM concepts at an early age,” comments GP Public Affairs Manager, Jessica Breazeale. “We acknowledge that authentic learning is an invaluable tool, an opportunity that bridges the gap between student outcome and workforce development needs. This gives students a chance to be part of innovation, and we hope these students come to work at GP one day!” Tinker with Tuesday takes place every Tuesday at 3:30 p.m. and is the perfect activity for upper elementary aged children.

TINKER WITHTUESDAYWhile children play, they are developing the skills they will need to succeed throughout childhood and beyond. Independent, interactive learning is a central theme at MCM, and Tinker with Tuesday is a core part of our STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) education initiatives which further this goal! Every Tuesday afternoon, children are given an object and a prompt – what they do and where they go from there is up to them! Giving children the chance to freely experiment with different types of objects provides information about the world and their place in it, allowing them to express themselves by creating new things and solving new problems. Programs like Tinker with Tuesday build the foundation upon which formal STEAM training can be built later.

Sponsored by

Sponsored by


Summer is one of our favorite times of the year at MCM, and we are excited to say that our summer programs for 2019 are going to be some of the most substantive and exciting to date! “Using a learning through play model, children will have a chance to engage with programs that will allow them to develop crucial skills in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics), health, and literacy!” Zack Looney, MCM Assistant Director of Programs, said of the new summer programming. Spend your summer break with MCM and be sure to check out our new programming!

various times, but these five are the nucleus! I often hear Hattie and her little brother, JP, mentioning their “museum friends!” Ann’s mother, Nickie, reflects on their Fridays at MCM stating, “Ann looks forward to her Friday afternoon museum date with her friends all week. We are on a first-name basis with most of the staff, all of whom have always gone above and beyond for us. We are so thankful for MCM and the way it has helped us foster these sweet friendships – among the kids and among the mamas and grandmothers!” And when asked how her family’s life has been impacted by MCM, Jane expressed excitedly, “The friendships that MCM has helped to inspire between all of us have grown to extend far beyond the museum walls. If one of us is having a birthday party or get-together, the “Friday Friends” are the first to be invited!” At MCM, one of the highest priorities is being a welcoming space for fellowship and fun. The next time you visit the museum on a Friday afternoon, be sure to say hi to “The MCM Friday Friends!”

This brand-new program is a Spanish language learning course for little English speakers! Through play-based learning, children will be able to learn practical Spanish, as well as be inspired

to continue additional language learning away from MCM.

Our newest science program to round out “STEAM Tuesday,” Super STEAM Tuesday will allow children

to observe experiments, trials, and tests that shed light on the incredible world of science!

This program is a part of “Healthy Thursday” at MCM! Using a holistic approach to health, children and caregivers will be able to explore new wellness techniques to develop the mind, body, and soul.

THURSDAYS: Mindful Mornings with MCM @ 11:00 am

TUESDAYS: Super STEAM Tuesday @ 11:00 am

MONDAYS: Habla Español? @ 3:30 pm

PROGRAMS

FIT FOR

FUNSponsored by

Being fit is about having fun! MCM is devoted to educating the children of Mississippi and their families on the enormous, positive impact play can have on our children’s fitness and overall wellbeing. Our weekly program, Fit for Fun, brings the idea of play and wellness full circle! Open to children of all ages and abilities, Fit for Fun uses dance and music to encourage children to get up and move while also learning why movement matters. By featuring activities that enable children to exercise and have fun all at the same time, the goal of Fit for Fun is to cultivate in our visitors a life-long appreciation for movement, health, and play. “Childhood obesity and overall health are growing problems in the United States, and especially in the South,” Caitlin Hayden, System Community Outreach and Special Events Coordinator at Baptist Memorial Health Care, comments. “Baptist is glad to partner with Mississippi Children’s Museum to address this issue through the Fit for Fun program. Encouraging healthy habits through play at an early age is key to a happier, healthier Mississippi.”

“AUTHENTIC LEARNING IS AN

INVALUABLETOOL”


MCM-Meridian Leadership

Executive DirectorElizabeth Vise Wilson

Advisory CommitteeDr. Terry Dale Cruse, Chairman

Hallie Pearson Swindoll, SecretaryJohn AndersonDr. Amy Carter

David HallKelvin Jackson

Dustin MarkhamJim McGinnis, IIIMelanie MitchellJenn Northam

Don RogersBeth Whitehead

Leigh Anne Whittle

Honorary ChairsLinda Grant

Melanie Mitchell

Capital Campaign CabinetSusan Coffin

Otis Gowdy, Jr.Bob Huff

Kristen SmithRobert Smith

Josh ThompsonStephanie Wright

Building CommitteeDavid Hall

Jim McGinnisHallie PhillipsDon Rogers

Terrell Temple

PartnersBeth Whitehead, V.P. Meridian

Lindsey AullDr. Patty Ann Bogue

Kim KnightLou Ann LamarHeather MyattCaroline Skelton

Kristen SmithHallie Swindoll

Public Launch CommitteeChristena Brown-Bradley, Chair

Rainey BreauxBethany Davis

Madison DulaneyMichael Gibson

Tara KomarSheila Madden

Mary Lindsey NewlinIonia Reynolds

Betty Vise

mcmmeridian.org

[email protected]

P.O. Box 1007Meridian, MS 39302

/mcmmeridian

@mcmmeridian

Take Flight Mississippi

From literacy and health to overall early childhood development, our children in Mississippi are falling behind in almost every measurable category of childhood well-being. MCM is changing those statistics with each child it reaches. By bringing the first satellite museum to East Mississippi, we will continue to transform the future of Mississippi one child at a time. Through encouraging play-based learning and providing literacy preparation, science exploration, health education, and safe, fun spaces for children and their families, the goal of the MCM-Meridian is to shape our children into lifelong learners, equipped to be the future leaders of our great state. The support for MCM-Meridian from communities throughout East Mississippi, the state, and region has been so incredible that this past April, the Take

Flight Mississippi crowdfund challenge was launched to raise $1,000,000 to help support the final push to realize this resource for East Mississippi.

“The Mississippi Children’s Museum-Meridian offers an unprecedented opportunity to collaborate with East Mississippi to build a resource for this community, where children from all backgrounds will be able to discover and achieve their potential,” says Liz Wilson, MCM-Meridian Executive Director. “After raising over 85% during the private fundraising campaign, the community has signaled to us that MCM-Meridian is ready to take flight. The Take Flight Mississippi Challenge has been launched to urge everyone who supports our vision to chip in and help us make this dream a reality!”

Above: Lamar Elementary School’s (Meridian) first grade students took the Take Flight Mississippi Challengeduring a recent visit to the Mississippi Children’s Museum in Jackson.

ACCEPT THE CHALLENGE! Build your paper airplane, donate online or by mailing a donation and challenge your

friends, family, and co-workers!

SHOP LOCAL! Patronize our local retail partners and support their point-of-purchase challenges

to support MCM-Meridian.

MAKE A PERMANENT IMPACT!Purchase a plane donning your name to be installed in a permanent art installation at the museum.

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA!Be sure to use the hashtag #TakeFlightMississippi.

Visit mcmmeridian.org/takeflightmississippi for more details!

Wondering how to get involved?


CONDUCTORS$1,000,000+The Phil Hardin FoundationThe Riley FoundationThe State of MississippiThe City of Meridian

AVIATORS$500,000 - $999,999Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mississippi

INVENTORS$250,000-$499,999Sissie and Fred WileHall TimberlandsThe Paul and Sherry Broadhead FoundationProgressive PipelineSouthern Pipe & Supply

SCHOLARS$100,000- $249,999Linda and Marty DavidsonMelanie and Manny MitchellMelissa and Adam MitchellJunior Auxiliary of MeridianLauderdale Board of Supervisors* Lauderdale County TourismMississippi Power

COMPOSERS$50,000-$99,999AnonymousOtis Gowdy, Jr.The David Majure FamilyFrances McDonnellHeather and Nathan MyattDeanna WilbournA&B Electric Company, Inc. Anderson Regional Health SystemAtmos EnergyBowers AutoThe Chisolm FoundationCommunity BankEast Mississippi Oral & Facial SurgeryFriends of Key FieldMeridian Coca-Cola Bottling CompanyThe Montgomery Institute*Trustmark

PERFORMERS$10,000-$49,999Linda and Tim AllredDebra and John AndersonLindsey and Cody AullBarbara and Gary BooneBess and Ben BoxGayle and Joel CallahanAmanda and Matt CassellKatie and Douglas ColemanAnn and John ComptonTom CrowsonHolley and Michael DavisKimberly and Dru DenisonJoel DrummondThe Tim Hogan FamilyRose and Scott HudsonTara and Dan KomarFarheen and Asif LalaAnnie and Vern LundCindy and Jim McGinnisHolly and Jonathan MooreHallie PhillipsCleta and Thad QuarlesNicki and Adam ReevesKaren and Sonny RushSandy and Terrell Temple*Lisa and Mike Van Drunen Betty and Richard ViseLiz and Rod WilsonStephanie and Benny WrightAlliance Health Center Employees

Charles Ledbetter Forestry Consultant, Inc.Charles L. Young Sr. FoundationCitizens National BankD & H ConstructionDowntown Optimist ClubGipson SteelGlass, Inc.Great Southern BankJackson Newell Paper FoundationLong DistributionMagnolia Beverage CompanyDr. Britt McCarty and Dr. Shelley McDonaldMcElroy Truck LinesMerrill LynchNissan of MeridianNorth American Coal CorporationPilot Flying JRegionsSequel Electric CompanyWaters International Trucks, Inc.

ARTISTS$5,000-$9,999Laura and Richard AbneyKacey and Bo BaileyDeidra and Percy BlandRainey and John BreauxLaura and Scott CarmichaelJamie and Bob CaterBrooke and Michael ChambleeLynn and Bill CrawfordTerry Dale CruseBethany and Logan DavisLea and Ed EilandAlana and Scotty ElliottLinda and Freddy GrantSally and Lloyd GrayCathy and Maurice HallSusan and George HillPat Jarrett Veronica JohnsonEris Deanne JordanJenny Ruth and Larkin KennedyLou Ann and Alan LamarFrances and Sam LongDustin MarkhamJoAnn and Jim McRaeAmanda MurphyMary Lindsey and Chris NewlinJulia and Tyler NormanRonnye PurvisMitzi and Chuck ReeceMary Allison and Kenneth SaulHelen and Lee ValentineEricka and Daniel VaughnCandice and Robert WardSela WardKim and M.L. WatersWilmer WhittleBenefits Management GroupCommercial BankThe DIVAS and FriendsLeading Edges*Magnolia Steel Co., IncSlay SteelWoodstock Furniture

DREAMERS$1,000-$4,999Emily and Justin AndersSheila and Marlon AustinKimberly and Howard BarteeJeanna and Bo BennettPatty Ann and Robert BogueElizabeth BrookshireAmy and David CarterBetsy and Leonard CobbSusan and Bob CoffinKerry and Jeff CookTori and Dustin Culpepper

Rula and Samer DabitMadison and Caleb DulaneyWanda and Richard DixonDanyell and Michael GibsonMary and David GilmoreMelissa and Paul GoldmanAmy and Ross Goodin Allison and Trey HannahMarsha and Bubba HannahLou and Alan HartKim A. HoustonMary Ann and Jay HowellClair and Brad HuffPenne and Bob HuffShwanna and Kelvin JacksonCeatrice and Richard KellyEddie KellyTanya and Kermit KendrickChris and Jim LauderdaleAlexa and Walt MarcelloEmily and Matt MartelliElizabeth and Justin McDonaldSusie and Scott MorganDenise and Donald NaylorAmy and Ken NelsonJanice and Linton NewlinJenn and John NorthamMeryl Lee and Bill NunneryRebecca and Eric PearsonDiane and Bucky PhillippiLauren Nicole and Brandon PrattRonnisha and Derron RadcliffB.J. and David RayChristine RileyMary and Don RogersPam and Mickey RutherfordHelen and Wade SimsDonna and Pat SpraberyHallie and Zach SwindollAmy and Brian TempleAmanda and Josh ThompsonGrace and Duncan VisePeg WahrendorffNancy and Tyler WaltonChristin and Josh WatersCay and Sonny WedgworthCandace and Eddie WelchBeth and Kary WhiteheadBess and Rob Wilder ABC Young ProfessionalsBallou Design GroupBWI Companies, Inc. Magnolia HealthHarry Mayer, Inc. Wells Fargo Advisors

CULTIVATORS$1-$999Cindy AdamsRachel and Bailey AdamsLynda and Wayne AndersLynne and Lamar ArringtonNancy and George ArringtonEmily and Evan AthanasMissy and Robert BaileyHollie and Chris BarberNatalie and Philip BeddingfieldJennifer and Scot BellLinda BillupsJan and Ronald BlackwellSusan and Alan BransonLinda BrantleyKristie and Steven BrownMelissa BrownMelissa and David BuganskiMelanie and Jamey BurrowAmy and Jim CadyApril and Cole CardwellLeslie and Bill CarruthJamie and Chandler CastleGloria and Poo ChancellorTheresa and Jayson ChisolmJune and Michael ClaytonAmy and Jim ColemanCaroline ComptonRachel and Brad CookBekah and Clay CookeJackie and Bill CookeWanda and Larry CooperAmy and Rick CountissAdrian CrossCasey and Phillip CulpepperGrayson Culpepper and John Luke Culpepper Shirley Cunningham

Wilhelmine DamonKenya and Michael DardenSheryl and Jay DavidsonEmmelyn Davis and Merridy Davis Susan DavisMary Katherine and Alex DeBardelebenKelly and Mike DeFrancoJennifer DupontCasey EasonCaroline and John EverettBecky and Frank FarleyJanet FortnerDee Dee and Tony FoutsDeonna FoxAndrea and Alan GartrellAndrea and Ab GermanyLaVonda and Jamey GermanyJudy Giese Kay and Ed GoughKimberly GradyGabrielle and Doug GrantJulia and Jimbo GreenAllison and Peter HaertlingLeslie and Anthony HiattLauren and Ben HillJoanie and John HodgeAmanda and James HollandBlair and Austin HolmesVicky and Ricky HoodJean JarrettFannie JohnsonJulie and Heath JordanKimberly KendrickMelissa and Brett KillingsworthBrooke and Justin KnightKim and Chris KnightKathy and Ray KomarLindsey and Bo KyleCaleb LeachCatherine and David LeachMelissa LoveSheila and Dennis MaddenJo Beth and Greg MarantoTammy and Irvin MartinAnn and Tom MaynorLindsey McCormickVicky McDonnellKelly and John McVayLiz and Neil MooreSherri and Al MooreGeorgette MoselyShirley MosleyCarissa and Kyle MurrayDeborah and Curtis ParkerGale and Bobby ParkerMichele and John PearsonSuzie and Randy PoolLinda and Rick PrescottLindsey and Kendrick PrewittThe Sara and David Purvis FamilySheila and Steven RadcliffeFareha and Muzaffar RahatAnne Elise and David RayWhitney and Parker ReeceOney and Joel ReynoldsLaurel and Mack RigdonLindsey and Taylor RobertsonSusan RossMichelle and Shane RundSharon and Larry SchwanJennifer and Jay ShehiCaroline and Brad ShulerWin and Jim ShumatePage and Tom SikesAshley and Tripp SimsStephanie and Hank SingleySarah and Jeff SkeltonKristen SmithZelda and Wayne Smith Tammy StoneGlenda and George ThomasEli Vise and Noah ViseMichele and Lee ThortonGuy Vise, III Cherly WaldronSarai Ann and Thomas Webb Kathleen and Wes WeibelMargaret and David WhiteLeigh Anne and Doug WhittleElizabeth and Tyler WigginsJane WigginsAmanda and Alan WilsonGayle Hamilton YochimBetty Young-CryerBarbara and Ashton Zeller

Bedford Care Center of MarionCater’s Market*Heritage Antique ClubJTM Hospitality/Sleep Inn*Lamar School The Liberty ShopMeridian Public Schools Leadership 52 Pearson & Company InsuranceRussell Christian AcademyWilson Realty

MCM-MERIDIAN MEMORIALSAND HONORARIUMSIn Celebration of the Mississippi Children’s Museum-Meridian Team Susan and Alan Branson

In Celebration of the GraduatingClass of 2019 Friends and Family

In Celebration of James, Carolineand Henry Lindsey and Kendrick Prewitt

In Celebration of the Jarrett Family Jean Jarrett

In Honor of Mrs. April’s2018-2019 Class Kate DeBardeleben

In Honor of Mrs. Hines’ 2018-2019 Andy DeBardeleben

Honored by Mailande, Trent andLilli Wilson: Miriam Chesney Elizabeth Honeycutt Dana McElroy Ree Pollman Danielle Shedd Stephanie Singley Susan Smith Nancy Sterling Lindsey Swift Sandy Syner Holly Triplett Martha Vitrella Lamar Elementary School

The Chris Newlin Family Honors: Candice Hardy Rocio Jensen Tina Johnson Teresa McCray Dana McElroy

Ree Pollman

In Honor of Lennon Dial’s 1st Birthday Lindsey and Taylor Robertson

In Celebration of Dr. Lee Valentineas the Junior Auxiliary 2019 King Friends and Family

In Memory of Caleb Bennet Melanie and Manny Mitchell

In Memory of Breon Brown Kenya and Michael Darden

In Memory of Allie Carruth Andrea and Alan Gartrell

In Memory of Eugene Damon Betty and Richard Vise

In Memory of Bobby Jarrett Kelly and Mike DeFranco

In Memory of Jamie Kelly Angela and David Majure

In Memory of Curtis Marcello Chris and Jim Lauderdale

In Memory of Louis Owen Pam and Mickey Rutherford

In Memory of Dr. Michael Vise Guy Vise, III

MCM-MERIDIAN DONORS

* denotes an in-kind donationIf you wish to change your recognition, please contact us at [email protected].

Contributions and pledges to the Mississippi Children’s Museum-Meridian

(list updated through May 30, 2019)


OF MCM

MCM SUPPORTER | DR. LAURIE SMITH

Former classroom teacher and current Senior Policy Advisor on Education to Governor Phil Bryant, Dr. Laurie Smith graciously served as the keynote speaker for MCM’s Annual Partner’s Celebration this past spring. Dr. Smith is a dedicated advocate for improving early childhood education outcomes for the children of Mississippi. She delivered an impassioned and informative keynote presentation that captivated all who attended the annual event. “Ninety percent of a child’s brain develops by age five. This early brain development has a lasting impact on how children learn and succeed in life,” explains Dr. Smith. “Learning through play helps children develop language skills, solve problems, and even learn to control their emotions. Interactive play environments are a critical component of early childhood development, and the Mississippi Children’s Museum is leading the way!”

MCM DONOR | CLARK BEVERAGE GROUP

Since our founding, MCM has relied on the generosity of supporters from across the state and southeast, but especially from within our own backyard in the metro-Jackson area. Clark Beverage Group, Inc. is one such partner who has been a member of our donor family since 2016. Vice President of Clark Beverage, Morgan Clark Schnur, acts as a financial supporter for the museum, but as a mother of two young children, she is also a regular visitor! “As a mom and business owner, I know the importance of supporting organizations like MCM, which help to strengthen the development of future generations. MCM provides both a fun and interactive educational experience as well as constant activity for children of all ages,” says Schnur. “Our 4-year-old son loves his playtime at the museum – he especially loves to play in the propeller plane above the barn! I know his little brother will love it, too.”

Morgan and Sean Schnur with sons Sebi and Hux

MCM-MERIDIAN SUPPORTER | ENGINEERING PLUS

Meridian based engineering firm, Engineering Plus, has been a vital member of the MCM-Meridian team from the very beginning, back when this satellite museum was still just a dream. MCM-Meridian Building Committee member, Terrell Temple, provides his expertise and wisdom at each and every turn; while Liz Dudley, member of our MCM-Meridian construction team, works with our architects, landscape architects, and builders to help bring our grand vision to life. “One of our core values at Engineering Plus is pouring back into our community and creating resources that feed the whole person…be it jobs or education,” says Temple. We feel strongly that this is a responsibility we all have as members of this community. We are proud to be an integral part of the team creating the Mississippi Children’s Museum-Meridian. This is a place that will inspire our next generation of leaders.” Founded in 1980 in Meridian, Engineering Plus has long been a champion for this community, and MCM-Meridian is fortunate to have their unwavering support and partnership!

Front Row (L to R): Phillip McDonald, Tony Massey, Liz Dudley, Ken WallaceBack Row (L to R): Colby Shumate, Terrell Temple, Keith McCraney


MCM-MERIDIAN STAFF | CLAIRE MASSEY

MCM would like you to meet MCM-Meridian’s talented Marketing Coordinator, Claire Massey! As a native of Meridian, Massey was thrilled to learn that MCM was working to bring a satellite museum to East Mississippi. She says, “When I was given the opportunity to become MCM-Meridian’s Marketing Coordinator, I was happy to accept the position and provide my talents toward something so impactful.” Massey has been working in close coordination with MCM-Meridian Executive Director, Liz Wilson, to plan and launch the Take Flight Mississippi crowdfund challenge, which is a public campaign inviting the surrounding community to become involved in MCM-Meridian’s final fundraising push. “From social media strategy and donor relations to launching a public campaign in April, each day at MCM-Meridian is about working towards the BIG dream of bringing this museum to East Mississippi!” Massey says. “I think the best part of my job is working with such a great team – one that has the kind of heart and talent that makes the Mississippi Children’s Museum such a rewarding place to work.”

MCM DONOR | BARKSDALE READING INSTITUTE

MCM’s long-running relationship with the Barksdale Reading Institute (BRI) and their newly appointed CEO, Kelly Butler, has greatly enhanced our ability to become a consistent leader in innovating and improving our region’s early childhood education and literacy training. Butler is a former educator and local expert in all things to do with early childhood literacy. Throughout her time at BRI, she has served as a liaison to literacy-related projects linked to BRI and has played a significant role in helping to develop and fund some of MCM’s most impactful and intensive literacy programming. “The Mississippi Children’s Museum is one of our state’s most important play and learning spaces for families of young children. The Barksdale Reading Institute is a proud supporter and partner of the museum,” Butler says. “The culture at MCM fosters a curiosity for learning and entices children to use and expand their language and knowledge of words. So, bring a child to MCM and be ready to read, talk, listen, and explore!”

It is because of incredible partnerships with community stewards like Kelly Butler and organizations like BRI that MCM is able touch the lives of so many children in our region!

MCM VOLUNTEERS | THE PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE

After an impressive application process, nine high school students from across the Jackson Metro-Area were selected for MCM’s inaugural President’s Leadership Circle class! MCM developed this volunteer group in an effort to focus of youth leadership and engagement. This volunteer program offers opportunities for MCM Youth Volunteers to acquire new skills, be part of an incredible team, and give back to the communities where they live. In addition to inspiring a lifelong love of learning and positively impacting other museum volunteers, the President’s Leadership Circle members will gain valuable experience in customer service, cultural diversity, career readiness/college prep, and community service. “The President’s Leadership Circle program serves the unique need of supporting Jackson-area youth and focusing their energy on meaningful activities that promote increased self-sufficiency and skill sets relevant to success in adulthood,” said MCM Volunteer Coordinator, Sharon Griffin. “We view this program as being an essential component to fostering positive and long-lasting civic engagement, because these are the young leaders we’ll pass the community torch to someday.”

Front Row (L to R): Felicia Sheriff (Murrah), Tamyria Levy (Richland), Anu Thind (Clinton), Priya Ray (Jackson Academy), and Lorelai Hayden (Hartfield)

Back Row (L to R): Dr. Gail Hammond - MCM Education Advisory Board Member, Sharon Griffin - MCM Volunteer Coordinator, Kevin Zhang (Clinton), Wake Monroe (St.Andrew’s), Susan Garrard - MCM President/CEO, Jack Maloney (Clinton), JaQuay Collins (St. Andrew’s), Alicen Blanchard - MCM Partner’s 2017-18 President/Board Member, and Monique Ealey - MCM Director of Education and Programs

Kelly Butler, CEO, Barksdale Reading Institute


support. volunteer. inspire.M C M P A R T N E R S

SAVE THE DATE

Saturday, September 22, 2019

SATURDAY JULY 13, 20198:00 pm - 12:00 am

MCM Partners work hard and play hard! Every year, they plan and host MCM’s signature fundraisers, volunteer during designated museum programs and special events, and increase awareness of MCM throughout Mississippi and the Southeast. While signature events like Ignite the Night, Neon Night, and Discovery Night may be the things for which MCM Partners are best known, they also play a pivotal role in some of MCM’s most impactful programming initiatives, such as our annual Read to Succeed Summer Reading Camp and Planting the Seeds to Read Family Literacy Program. The overarching goal of both programs is to improve literacy proficiency, engagement, and confidence in under-served children and their families in the Jackson Public School District (JPS). While the programs include intensive learning and instruction, they also – and perhaps, most importantly – involve lots of play-based activities utilizing the museum’s educational galleries!

“I absolutely love our children’s museum and all of the incredible opportunities it offers our children, not only to learn but also to use their imaginations and play!” says Amberly Collins, Read to Succeed Camp Chair. “There is nothing more deserving than a child who gets the time and resources they need to perform to their full potential. And when you mix instruction with creativity and play – that’s when the magic really happens.”

From volunteering at the early Children’s Education Fair to voting with the Junior League of Jackson to build a children’s museum to serving on the MCM Board of Directors, Margaret Cupples has truly done it all. It should come as no surprise that she is this year’s MCM Partner of the Year and Preston Myers Hays Award of Light recipient! Cupples has served our museum in many different capacities throughout the years and is currently chairing the MCM Strategic Planning Committee. While she may say she’s played only a small part in MCM’s success, everyone who works with and visits the museum feels her enormous impact every day. “When I voted as a Junior League member to proceed with building MCM, I never dreamed of how great it would turn out to be – although, I think Preston Hays probably dreamed just that big!” Cupples says of her early memories with the museum. “MCM has proven to be a force for good in our state, as well as an amazingly fun place for children to explore. I’m just so honored to be a small part of it.” MCM would not be the haven for children that it is today without the dedicated service of volunteers like Margaret Cupples. We are so proud to honor her as the 2019-2020 MCM Partner of the Year!

PARTNERS IN PLAY

This year, the MCM Partners experienced their most successful year to date. Through complete dedication and lots of fun, the Partner’s raised a total of $217, 577.19 for the 2018-2019 year – every bit of which goes into operation and programming costs for the museum!

MCM is forever grateful to our talented MCM Partners who make programs like Read to Succeed and Planting the Seeds to Read possible for students in the Jackson-Metro area.

Margaret Cupples2019-20 PARTNER OF THE YEAR

(L to R): Clay Hays, Carlene Scanlon, Mary Preston Dubberly, Margaret Cupples, Elizabeth Hays, Margaret Hays, Jimmy Hays


The Mississippi Science Festival (MSF) is the Lefleur Museum District’s signature event presented by our partners at C Spire. After drawing over 4,500 visitors in 2018, MSF has been recognized by the Mississippi Tourism Association as “Small Festival of the Year” and a “Top 20 Event” by the Southeast Tourism Society! MSF aims to introduce new educational opportunities in STEM industries to Mississippi children in hopes of bringing about a brighter future for the residents and future workforce of our state. Every September, this event features three days full of science exploration and activities, such as: C3 Jr., an elementary coding challenge presented by C Spire, a Field Trip Friday for students from across the state, and an affordable, joint-ticketed day on Saturday featuring hands-on activities and exhibitors in STEM industries at all four museums. Mark your calendars for this year’s Mississippi Science Fest which will be held on September 19-21, 2019!

LEFLEUR MUSEUM DISTRICT WINS

Shining Example Partnership AwardThe LeFleur Museum District (LMD) was recently recognized by the Southeast Tourism Society with the Shining Example Partnership Award for cooperative tourism work in 2018! Comprised of the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum, the Mississippi Children’s Museum, MDWFP’s Museum of Natural Science, and the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame & Museum, this group of four unique museums produced an economic impact of $28.4 million for the city of Jackson in 2018. “Working together in a partnership like this not only allows us to more effectively cross promote each other’s activities, but also allows us to work collectively towards bolstering Mississippi’s creative economy,” commented Susan Garrard, Mississippi Children’s Museum President/CEO and current LeFleur Museum District President. “We are so proud to be honored in this way by the Southeast Tourism Society!”

STAY UP TO DATE ON ALL THINGS LEFLEUR MUSEUM DISTRICT!

presented by

SYNERGIZED BY THE

9.21.19

lefleurmuseumdistrict.com @LeFleurMuseumDistrict @lefleurdistrict


$25,000 +

Maggi and Lee LamptonMississippi Farm Bureau FederationSt. Dominic Health Services, Inc.Trustmark

$10,000 - $24,999Frieda and Joe LauderdaleAshley and Hu MeenaAtmos EnergyBankPlusClarion Ledger*Feild Co-Operative Association, Inc.Fondren CoveredFountain Family FoundationKroger Delta Marketing AreaMississippi Baptist Medical CenterMississippi Development AuthorityRegions BankThe Mapp Family FoundationChildren’s of Mississippi

$5,000 - $9,999Betty and Martin Jue Caryll M. and Norman F. Sprague Jr. FoundationClark Beverage GroupEaton Aerospace GroupEntergy Mississippi, Inc.Mississippi Development AuthorityMolina Healthcare, Inc.

$2500-$4999BKD, LLPBradleyButler SnowC Spire FoundationEastGroup PropertiesEat. Drink. Mississippi*Jackson Free Press*Jones Walker LLPMercedes-Benz/Porsche of Jackson*

Sysco Jackson, LLC*Well-Being Magazine of MS, LLC*

$1000-$2499Anonymous Steve DavisBillie and Al GreenJanice and Jim IngramJanie and Mike JarvisPaula KempSara and Bill RayAmy and DeFord WalkerLibba WilkesAlbriton’s Jewelry*Benchmark ConstructionCommunity BankCoxwell & Associates, PLLCDuckworth Realty, Inc.Dunn French FoundationGannett FoundationHoward Industries, Inc.Ingalls ShipbuildingKendall Poole Event PlanningMac Long Homes Mississippi Forestry AssociationPortable Medical DiagnosticsPortico Jackson*Raymond James Financial ServicesRoss & Yerger Insurance, Inc.Storagemax Northtown*Taggart, Rimes & Graham, PLLCThe Garden Clubs of MS Inc. The Radio People of Jackson*Wier Boerner Allin Architecture

$500-$999Kelly and George AbdoElizabeth and Harold BooneDonna and Clark BruceJane BryanBill BynumGinny DeHart

Lisa and Sean DidionOleta Garrett Fitzgerald Michelle and Lake GarnerSarah and Brandon JonesFarrah and Steve KennedyHolly and Alan LangeKatherine and David McRaeMelanie and Richard MorganAllison and Jack Muirhead*Pavanpreet and Sunny SethiTiffany and B.T. SteadmanSusan and Trey WeirCamille and Keith YoungAnnandale Golf Club*Colony Wine Market*Explore LeFleur/Find it in Fondren*Green Oak Garden Center, LLC*JP Morgan Chase FoundationPiroulineTaylor CollectionTharp and Klaus Dental Group

$250-$499Tori Applewhite*Sara Katherine and Ryan BeckettAlicen and E.J. Blanchard*Amanda and Trey ClarkAmberly and Matthew CollinsGail and Jan CollinsSidney and Holt CrewsJennie and Matt EichelbergerLeslie EzelleAmanda and Brad GaleySue and Marcus GrishamMonica and Ray HarrigillHannah HeilmanSummer and Ashley HoodJennifer WellhausenLibby and Ted H. Kendall, IVNatalie and Drew LevanwayDavid and Elizabeth MaronMichael McReeCorin and Robert MorrisonBeth and Chip PickeringKim and Trey PorterDonna ReissLisa ShawClare and Aaron SiskJan and Andrew TownesJordan and Adams YergerMollie YoungChip Reno Associates, LLPTzedakah Charitable Fund of the Community Foundation of MississippiMississippi Arts CommissionMosquito Marshals*Landon Thompson - Nationwide InsurancePendleton Security

St. Andrew’s Episcopal SchoolSummerHouseThe First - A National Banking AssociationThimblepress*Tuscany Construction & RoofingThe Westin Jackson*

$1-$249Stanford AdamsTyler ArmstrongAnnie Laurie Roberts and David BarrettSusan and Alan BransonMelanie and Jamey Burrow*Angela ByersWarner CannadaGloria and John CorreroPuja and Jay CraddockStaci Waits Crawford*Frances and Justin CroftBetsy and Kane DittoVicki and Tim EllisKitty and Louis FullerGwendolyn GerhardtKelsey and Matthew GaimmalvoAllison and Lee GrubbsWilliam GuthrieDoug LevanwaySarah LutzJennifer McCantsBarbara McLaughlinJudy and Mike McNamesJoanna and Jason McNeel*Pharis and Kent NewmanHeidi and Mark NoelKaren RedheadMary Straton and Kell SmithCamille and Drew SnyderCarrie Starks MooreJames A. StewartMason StewartBetty and Cecil SumnersLisa and Bill ThompsonJim TurnbullEd VanZandtDee and Frank WebbCal WellsAimee and Joey Wiggins4 Top Catering*47 Blooms, LLC*Barnette’s Hair Salon*Beagle Bagel Madison*Brent’s Drugs*Brown’s Fine Art and Framing*CoatTails*Designs by Daisy*Farmers Table in Livingston*Fondren Guitars*Gracefully Designs*

Hemline Ridgeland*Kendra Scott*KPMG, LLPM Theory Yoga*Mississippi Braves*Noggins Organic Salon*Nursery Rhymes*Pita Pit Ridgeland*PriorityOne BankRankin County Rotary ClubRed Square Clothing Co.*Row 10*Saltine*Smitten, LLC*Stadt Nutrition*Sunny Holliday Design*Tay Morgan Designs*The Gathering at Livingston Mercantile Store*Ulmer’s Stride Right*Vineyard Vines*

Memorials & CelebrationsIn Memory of Halla Jo Ellis The Garden Clubs of MS Inc.

In Memory of Kathy and Coleman Frye Judy and Mike McNames

In Memory of Molly Stahnke Gloria and LM Chancellor

In Celebration of Leonard and Sandra O’Mire Mason Stewart

In Celebration of Gene Wright Stanford Adams

In Celebration of Adams Yerger PriorityOne Bank

In Honor of Dean Bryan Jane Bryan

In Honor of Wynn & Clare Fuller Kitty and Louis Fuller

In Honor of Leigh Grady Barbara McLaughlin

In Honor of Youth Ambassador Holland Townes Jan and Andrew Townes

QUARTERLY DONORSContributors to the Mississippi Children’s Museum from

November 16, 2018 - March 15, 2019* denotes an in-kind donation

denotes a Build.Play.Grow. donation

If you wish to change your recognition, please contact us at [email protected].

MCM CAR TAGSYou can go mobile and show your support of one of the most inspirational places imaginable for children by purchasing a Mississippi Children’s Museum car tag. MCM receives $44 from each museum car tag sold, which provides additional needed funds for our programs and exhibits. Plus, when you display your museum car tag, you will be sharing your commitment to having high quality cultural and educational resources for Mississippi’s children.

AMAZON SMILEDonate to MCM with every purchase on Amazon Smile, too! A percentage of everything you spend with your Amazon account goes to MCM!

How to Enroll:1. Visit www.smile.amazon.com2. Sign into your account or create a new one.3. When prompted to pick a charitable organization, type “Mississippi Children’s Museum.”

KROGER PLUSDonate to MCM with every purchase on your Kroger Plus Card! A percentage of everything you spend with your Kroger Plus Card goes to MCM!

How to Enroll:1. Visit www.KrogerCommunityRewards.com2. Sign into your account or create a new one.3. Under “Community Rewards,” click “Enroll.”4. Type in “Mississippi Children’s Museum.”

PLAY

OTHER WAYS TO GIVEYou can give to MCM through many different outlets outside of the museum!


Can you find the items pictured below? Search the Playbook and write the page numbers in the blanks.SEEK & FIND

A trolley is a type of vehicle that carries people and things from one place to another within a city. Another name for a trolley is a streetcar.

DID YOU KNOW?

GAME: RED LIGHT, GREEN LIGHT

NEIGHBOR/PLAY/TIGER/FRIENDS/TROLLEY

Can you unscramble the following words?

EIGBORHN

ENSDFRI

TELYROL

IGETR

PYLA

WORD SCRAMBLE

WHAT YOU WILL NEED:• 2 or more players• An open space• Red and green light signs (optional)• Masking tape or safety cones

HOW TO PLAY:1. Setup the start and finish lines by marking them off with tape or safety cones. The length in between is up to you!2. Identify one player as the Traffic Light.3. Line up all players on the starting line. The Traffic Light stands beyond the finish line with their back to the other players.3. When the Traffic Light says “Green Light” players move towards the finish line. When the Traffic Light says “Red Light” he or she turns around and all players must immediately stop.4. Keep playing until all players reach the finish line.5. Take turns so that all players can be the Traffic Light. Mix it up and add a “Yellow Light” where players have to move in slow motion!

Who is riding on the trolley? Draw them!

Have fun learning everywhere you go!MCM • TO • GO

A signature project of the Junior League of Jackson

This project is partially funded through a grant by Visit Jackson.

mschildrensmuseum.org • 601.981.5469

MCM SUMMER 2019 CALENDARPlease note that these dates and events are subject to change. Visit mschildrensmuseum.org for an up-to-date schedule.

$5.29 CollegeSavings Day

10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Saturday

7 MS Science Fest

LeFleur Museum District wide event9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Saturday

21

Neon Nightadults-only (21+)fundraising event

8:00 pm - 12:00 am

Saturday

13

Members-Only Daniel & DadBreakfast8:30 - 10:00 am

Saturday

15

Makers Daywith Daniel Tiger10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Saturday

10 Outreach:Bright LightsBelhaven Nights5:00 - 8:00 pm

Sunday

11

Communication& Emotions Daywith Daniel Tiger10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Saturday

20

ImaginativePlay Day withDaniel Tiger10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Saturday

15 Visiting ArtistElaine MaiselWorkshops @ 11:00,12:00, 2:00, and 3:00

Saturdays

15

Outreach:Mississippi BookFestival

Saturday

17

Discovery Night:Let’s Experiment!

6:00 - 9:00 pm

Saturday

22

Lights! Camera!Imagination!

10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Saturday

20 Christmasin July

5:30 - 7:30 pm

Friday

26 Question it?Discover it!Brain Day

10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Saturday

27

CommunityHelpers Day withDaniel Tiger

10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Saturday

7

JUN

EJU

LYA

UG

SE

PT

/MississippiChildrensMuseum @mschildsmuseum @mschildsmuseum /MississippiChildrensMuseum

MAGICMONDAYSopen every Monday in

JUNE & JULY!

SPLASHPAD

NOW OPEN!open daily 9:00 - 5:00 pm

through Labor Day

Cool off with a treat fromthe Red Rocket Café!

and 29th

the mcm a grr-ific playbook - mschildrensmuseum.org€¦ · pbs kids television series –...

Documents