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Linn & Benton Counties Vol.12, No.11 November 2013

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Poky No More: Help for . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Procrastinators; What the Happiest Moms Do Before Bedtime

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Findings; Kids’ View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 10 Tips for a Debt-Free Holiday . . . . . . 6

Design Director & Advertising/Design Bobbi Dickerson Contributors: Nanette Dupuy Nathaniel Brodie Malia Jacobson Stephanie Vozza Heidi Smith Luedtke, PhD. Sara Kendall Kara Benken Garrod Beth Fornauf

Let Your Family’s Gratitude Shine . . . . 7 Parenting Without a Parent . . . . . . . . . 8 Slump Busters: A Teacher’s Tips . . . . 10 For Regaining Your Child’s Momentum Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

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Strategies

Poky No More: Help for Procrastinators

What the Happiest Moms Do Before Bedtime

Helping dawdlers to be more diligent

Children may grow up fast, but when it comes to certain tasks, they’re experts at slowing things down. Maybe your tot drags out the morning routine or you grade-schooler waits until the proverbial last minute to start on an important school project.

Whatever your child’s procrastination problem, you can help him build important life skills like punctuality and responsibility that will pay off in school and in the working world. Read on for expert advice on replacing procrastination with promptness.

TODDLER/PRESCHOOL YEARS 2-5: Keep it simple Though your toddler may sprint like the wind at her favorite park, young children generally aren’t known for their swiftness. Tasks like dressing, using the restroom, or picking up toys simply take longer for young children to complete, says Jane Bailey, Ed.D, Dean of the School of Education at Post University in Waterbury, Connecticut. She encourages parents to have patience, and to match tasks with a child’s developmental level. “Parents often assume a procrastinating child is being willfully defiant, when in fact it’s simply that the chore is bigger than the child can handle,” she notes.

Avoid power struggles by scaling the task to your tot’s pint-size attention span. Don’t expect a preschooler to know how to make hospital corners; making the bed might mean pulling the blanket up and smoothing it out. Similarly, “setting the table” might entail folding and placing napkins, and “clearing the table” may mean that the child takes his own plate and cup to the sink.

ELEMENTARY YEARS 6-11: School rules During grade school, book reports, science fairs, and a plethora of other school projects mean that kids (and their parents) have no shortage of homework deadlines to meet. This makes the elementary years a prime time to instill

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solid study habits in preparation for the more intense academics kids will encounter in middle school, high school, and beyond, says Dayle Lynn Pomerantz, a parenting educator based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and the author of Secrets of Great Parents.

When a child has a big project looming, think time management, says Bailey.

“Just giving a student a deadline for a major assignment is not teaching him/her how to ‘chunk it.’”

Write due dates on the family calendar, break the project into manageable ‘chunks,’ and set a deadline for each one. Offer a reward (like extra TV or video game time) if the project is done on time, advises Bailey, and talk about how great it is to have an assignment done early.

TWEEN AND TEEN YEARS 12-18: Tough love With heftier responsibilities, burgeoning academic loads, and college admissions deadlines to juggle, teens pay a higher price for procrastination. Missing a scholarship application due date or falling behind on SAT prep brings lasting consequences, so it’s natural for parents to push teens to meet deadlines. Some parents even step up and take on some of their teen’s duties themselves, or resign themselves to constant nagging. But this type of pushy “helicopter parenting” won’t help your overbooked teen build the skills she needs to thrive after high school.

If your teen is struggling with a packed schedule and missing deadlines as a result, make time for a weekly mini-meeting to help her organize her calendar. Then, turn over the responsibility for meeting commitments to your teen. “If something isn’t done because of a student’s procrastination, then it’s time to let the light stay on later and have the student learn that help won’t always be available at the last minute.

It’s time for the teen to face the music and accept the consequence!”

Malia Jacobson is a mom of three.

When Leah Jantzen moved into her new house last year, she had a lot of plans for painting, decorating and creating a pictureperfect home. And then she had a reality check: namely, her four children, ages 10, 5, 3 and 19 months.

“The craziness in my house can be off the charts,” she says. “Keeping up with basic maintenance, and doing laundry and meals is enough. My house is messy, and I’m OK with that.”

Unfortunately, not everyone has Jantzen’s laid back attitude.

“Many mothers today live with the pressured sense that they need to be a more perfect version of themselves,” says pediatrician Meg Meeker, M.D., and author of Ten Habits of Happy Mothers. “The happiest mothers are the women who can get rid of that perfect person in her mind.

They’re willing to accept themselves for who they are.”

Meeker says happy moms have several habits in common, and they regularly do these five before they go to bed at night: 1. They stick to a routine. Happy moms establish a rhythm to their day and stick to it to the best of their ability.

“Kids go to bed by a certain time and dinner is at a certain time,” Meeker says.

“Sometimes we feel like our kids are consumers and we’re the providers. Happy moms take charge and don’t feel guilty about it.”

2. They make a short to-do list.

Meeker says happy moms slow down their day. They make a list of four or five things and they forget the five or ten other things that need to get done.

“Happy moms know they can only get a certain amount of things done and they let the rest go,” says Meeker.

3. They take care of themselves.

Happy moms get as much sleep as possible

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and work exercise into their day as much as they can. They also try to eat healthy, but they cut themselves some slack if they don’t eat all organic or cook everything from scratch.

“Do the best you can,” Meeker says.

“Eat a little bit of everything and let it go.

Health is all about balance.”

4. They find 15-20 minutes of solitude. Moms need to take time in their day to turn off the noise and be introspective. Meeker says to 15 to 20 minutes of quiet calms you down and allows you to keep your priorities straight.

This can be found in the morning before the kids get up, at night after the kids go to bed, or even when they’re alone in the car.

5. They accept themselves. The laundry that didn’t get done, the brownie they ate, or the exercise routine that was overlooked: happy moms accept that they’re not perfect – and that’s OK. “They relax,” says Meeker. “They don’t beat themselves up for what they should have done. Kids don’t like a mom who is irritable, and guilty moms are constantly irritable.”

For Jantzen, the key to embracing her life is to stay off Pinterest and leave the home design magazines on the newsstand.

“If I tried to keep up, it would depress me,” she says. “Out of sight, out of mind!”

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Findings

VP

by Nathaniel Brodie

Too Much Praise for Toddlers Human Milk Purchased Via the Internet May Contain High Levels of Bacteria Websites selling human milk for infant consumption are gaining in popularity.

Unfortunately, much of this milk is tainted, according to fidnigs in the journal Pediatrics.

Researchers purchased 102 cross-sectional samples of human milk through a popular U.S. milk-sharing website and compared them with samples of unpasteurized, donated milk obtained through a milk bank. 74 percent of the Internet milk samples were colonized with high bacterial counts overall; and 64 percent of the Internet samples tested positive for staphylococcus, compared to 25 percent of the milk bank samples. Three of the Internet samples were contaminated with Salmonella.

The high overall bacterial growth and frequent contamination with disease-causing bacteria in the Internet milk reflected poor collection, storage or shipping practices, according to the study authors. Infants consuming human milk purchased via the Internet are at risk for negative outcomes, especially premature infants and those with compromised immune systems.

High-Quality Preschool Programs Are Profitable Social Investments A new study provides extensive evidence that high-quality preschool programs are “the most cost-effective educational interventions and are likely to be profitable investments for society as a whole.” The research brief, produced in collaboration with the Society for Research in Child Development and written by an interdisciplinary group of 10 early-childhood experts, found that large-scale, high-quality public preschool programs can have substantial impacts on children’s early learning. Quality preschool education can benefit middle-class children as well as disadvantaged children, although children from low-income families benefit more.

Quality preschool education is also a profitable investment, with $3 to $7 saved for every $1 spent. While the analysis fully acknowledges that there is little, if any, difference in test scores between those who go to preschool and those who don’t, it also found that there are “longterm effects on important societal outcomes such as years of education completed, earnings and reduced crime and teen pregnancy.”

Want to Bond With Your Child?

Make Friends With Them on Facebook Teenagers who are connected to their parents on social media feel closer to them in real life, according to a study carried out by scientists at Brigham Young University.

Lead study author, Dr. Sarah Coyne, said: “It gives more opportunities to give positive feedback or show affection.

Social networks give an intimate look at your teenager’s life. It lets parents know what their kids are going through, what their friends think is cool or fun, and helps them feel more connected to their child.”

She explained that the study suggested that half of teenagers connect with their parents on social network sites, and that 16 percent interact with their parents through social media every day. However, Dr. Coyne did accept that parents can take this communication opportunity too far. “You have to keep it at the level that’s appropriate and respectful of what the teen wants as well.”

Uncovering Covering Kenji Yoshino, a professor at New York University’s law school, recently looked at the question of who covers up family associations at work. He found that a broad range of people avoid talking about family with colleagues, and that “covering” makes those employees disinclined to stand up for others whose family needs come up at work, less likely to vocally support family-friendly policies, and can even lead them to avoid those who are more open about their family needs.

People who “cover” don’t actively hide their families. Instead, they work to ensure that their families, and the time they take from work to spend with them, recede into the background in a work environment.

When covering is the default, a manager can call an evening meeting for six parents of young children on Halloween, and not one will feel as if it’s acceptable to speak up — even if it’s a meeting that could be held another time. If the work culture suggests that work must come first, even low-impact changes that benefit parents feel hard to ask for — and if no one at work talks about family, the message comes through loud and clear.

Kids’ View What are you thankful for?

Dalia 6 years old “I am thankful for my family.

They take good care of me.”

Sammy 5 years old “I like to sing.

I am thankful for music.”

John 8 years old “I’m thankful for my bike and getting to ride with my friends when the weather isn’t rainy.”

Marijuana Use in Adolescence May Cause Permanent Brain Abnormalities Regular marijuana use in adolescence may permanently impair brain function and cognition, and may increase the risk of developing serious psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, according to a recent study from the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Researchers hope that the study will help to shed light on the potential long-term effects of marijuana use. “Adolescence is the critical period during which marijuana use can be damaging,” says the study’s lead author, Sylvina Mullins Raver.

“We wanted to identify the biological underpinnings and determine whether there is a real, permanent health risk to marijuana use.”

In the study, adult mice exposed to marijuana ingredients in adolescence exhibited impaired cognitive abilities later in life. “The striking finding is that, even though the mice were exposed to very low drug doses, and only for a brief period during adolescence, their brain abnormalities persisted into adulthood,” said Dr. Raver.

Influenza Can Be Fatal in Children With and Without Risk Factors ​Each year, influenza causes an estimated 54,000 to 430,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 to 49,000 deaths in the U.S., with infection rates highest among children. In a new study in the journal Pediatrics, researchers reviewed U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) records of children, ages 18 and younger, with laboratory-confirmed influenza between October 2004 and September 2012. Thirty-five percent of these children (median age 7) died before hospital admission. Of the 794 children with a known medical history, 43 percent had no high-risk medical conditions, 33 percent had neurologic disorders, and 2 percent had genetic or chromosomal disorders.

Children without high-risk medical conditions were more likely to die before, or within three days of, hospital admission than those with high-risk medical conditions. As influenza can be fatal in children with and without risk factors, the study authors recommend that all children receive annual influenza vaccinations. In addition, children hospitalized for influenza should be given antiviral treatment as soon as possible.

Brittany 31/2 years old “I love my mommy and cuddling her.”

Gunner 5 years old “I like cupcakes and cookies.

They taste yummy.”

November 2013, Valley Parent

5

VP

Money

10 Tips for a

Debt-Free Holiday

Despite your best intentions, you’re likely to overspend (again) this holiday season.

You probably know you should set a holiday budget, and you may have written expected costs next to each item on your shopping list.

But “even those who enter the season with a budget in mind rarely stick to it,” according to Ethan Ewing, president of the personal finance website Bills.com. “People are overwhelmed by marketing, family members, and guilt,” Ewing says. The pressure to demonstrate love through gift-giving is real and intense. Marketing ploys and promotions only increase the pressure we already feel.

Blending Families?

Toge ther we can iron out the wrinkles

Spendy Beliefs You know that money is no substitute for love, but you may feel you need to spend equal amounts on each recipient to avoid the impression of favoritism. Or you may feel pressured to spend a certain amount of money because of your gift-giving – and receiving – history, says certified public accountant and financial coach Kelley Long.

“Don’t feel trapped because you were especially generous last year,” Long says.

Start fresh, taking your current financial situation into account.

Don’t give in to social pressure, either.

Holiday spending gets out of control when you try to keep up with the Joneses or the kids’ expectations, says Katherine Liola, an Ameriprise financial advisor in Vienna, Va. If you worry the kids will feel left out because they receive less than their peers or don’t get the latest gadgets, you’re more likely to buy what you can’t afford. Before you start shopping, have a family meeting. Everyone should know what to expect.

Debt-Busting Behavior “Finances contribute significantly to holiday stress,” says consumer finance expert Kevin Gallegos of Freedom Debt Relief.

“Take a step back, take a deep breath, and remember that it is insane to get caught up in the mad hype of consumerism.” If you want more joy and less stress this holiday season, safeguard your budget. Nothing you could buy feels as good as starting the New Year in the black. Here’s how to do it.

• Budget everything. Include decorations, cards and stamps, food for parties, holiday clothing and dry cleaning costs,

6 Valley Parent, November 2013

babysitting, teachers’ gifts and year-end tips for service people. Gifts are only one line-item, and they may not be your biggest expense.

• Shop sales. “But only for items you already planned to purchase,” says Long.

Just because something is on sale doesn’t mean it’s a good value and it definitely doesn’t mean you need it. Make only planned purchases.

• Spend time. Parents make costly decisions when they’re rushed, Liola says. Plan a family trip instead of buying gadgets. You’ll treasure shared memories long after today’s technology is obsolete.

• Be card smart. Leave credit cards at home to avoid overspending. Studies show people spend about 15% more when they pay with credit cards, Gallegos says. If you must use a card, carry just one. You’ll be less likely to lose sight of your spending.

• Cash out. Maximize savings by carrying large bills, not a pile of ones, fives, and tens Gallegos advises. You’ll be less likely to break a $50 bill to buy a latte or a silly stocking stuffer.

going to your retirement account or kids’ college funds, Liola says. Focus on longterm wealth and well-being, not shortterm satisfaction.

• Keep track. Overspending doesn’t happen by accident, says Liola, but people often don’t realize how much they’re spending. Writing down each expenditure as you make it will force you to think before buying.

• Just do it. Give gifts of giving instead of material goods, Gallegos says. Work late so a co-worker can attend her child’s holiday party or take her packages to the post office. She’ll appreciate your gift of service more than any token you could buy.

• Skip yourself. Avoid “to me, from me” gifts, says Long. When you see something you like, write it on a wish list. You’ll be ready when your spouse and kids ask what you want and they will be happy to buy something you’ll really enjoy.

• Go big. Buy one significant gift for each recipient, not several smaller ones. When you buy a $12 trinket for one child, you’ll feel pressured to buy the other kids trinkets, too, says Long. Soon, you spent $40 on “nothing.”

Bottom line: Focus on having more fun or making fonder memories, not on buying more stuff this season. When you do, you’ll make your family rich in the ways that really count. Gallogos shares this wisdom: “Give reasonably, with a generous smile.” True abundance is in your heart and your home, not at the mall.

• Trade up. Purchasing decisions are tradeoffs: money spent on ornaments isn’t

— Heidi Smith Luedtke

Development

VP

Let Your Family’s Gratitude Shine Thanksgiving is not a holiday about wearing a costume, receiving candy, or getting gifts. It’s all about stuffing your face with too much turkey and pumpkin pie, succumbing to a food coma while watching football, then launching an attack on Black Friday sales, right? In reality, it’s not about overeating, football, or shopping at all. Help your kids get more out of Thanksgiving by focusing on the true meaning of the holiday: gratitude.

How it All Started Thanksgiving marks a remembrance of those Pilgrims who crossed an uncharted ocean from Europe in search of true freedom in what later became Plymouth, Massachusetts. The Pilgrims suffered hard times through a cold winter with no food.

Many became sick and died. The remaining Pilgrims did not give up, and befriended Native American Indians who showed them how to plant corn and other crops, learning how to harvest the crops for their survival.

This first harvest celebration between the Pilgrims and Indians lasted for three days.

It’s important for children to hear how our Thanksgiving traditions were born. Many will learn in school, but there are plenty of good online resources and books for your child to gain a deeper, more meaningful understanding of the story.

The true meaning of the Thanksgiving story is there will be tough times for us all, but always find something to appreciate in our lives. The Pilgrims did not give up, persevering and learning to be grateful for what they had. How can we show our children the importance of both Thanksgiving and giving thanks? We offer three ideas to start your family down the path of understanding gratitude.

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Jar of Thanks Start a week or so ahead of Thanksgiving and have each family member write down what he or she is thankful for on a piece of paper and place it in a jar. If you have younger children give some simple examples of what you are thankful for like a warm fall day or bubble bath.

Continue writing down one each day until Thanksgiving Day arrives. During or after the meal, every family member can take out one piece of paper and read aloud.

It will be a beautiful moment to hear all the big and small things your family appreciates. This simple Thanksgiving Day tradition can become part of your holiday every year.

Thankful Tree Celebrate the beauty of the holiday by creating a festive centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table. Adorn bare tree branches with homemade leaves. Fill these leaves with words of gratitude.

Kids love to cut, draw and color, they will love to get involved in this project.

Items Needed • Colored paper in fall hues of orange, red, yellow and brown • Scissors • Hole punch • Twine or yarn • Pencils, crayons or markers • 2 or 3 bare tree branches • One pot or vase • Sand, dirt or rocks Instructions • Fold over colored paper and cut out different leaf shapes. Cut out 25 or 30 leaves.

• Using the hole punch, make a hole at the base of each leaf.

• Place a piece of twine through the hole on each leaf and

My Health

Swimming

My Job

Friends

Our Pets

My Family

Music

tie a knot.

• Have every family member write down things they are thankful for on each of their leaves. Encourage using small responses like “my sister” or “getting an A on a test.”

• Place sand, dirt or rocks into the bottom of the vase. Place the branches deep into the pot and cover up with the anchor material of your choosing.

• Hang the leaves throughout the branches.

Your family has created a Thankful Tree which will take center stage on this holiday.

If you are inviting guests over on Thanksgiving, have some extra leaves ready for them, so they can be a part of taking a moment to express their gratitude.

Give Back Put the spirit of Thanksgiving into practice by giving back into the community. Younger kids can collect cans of food from friends and family to donate to a local shelter or food bank. Older kids can volunteer at a soup kitchen to assist with their Thanksgiving meal. Call several weeks ahead. Your kid could help prepare food during the days leading up to the holiday or serve food on Thanksgiving Day. Thanksgiving is generally a time when many tend to overeat. Consider going another direction and taking part in a charity Turkey Trot or 5K run. Your family can contribute to a good cause and work off some extra calories all at once. Your family will know they have earned their Thanksgiving dinner once they cross the finish line.

Choose one or two of these wonderful ways to bring gratitude into your family’s Thanksgiving holiday. You are helping your children get more out of Thanksgiving than an overstuffed belly and a football game.

Your entire family will be more aware of things they are thankful for and hopefully appreciate the big and small things that come along in their life.

Sara Kendall is a freelance writer and mother of two daughters.

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Parenting Without a Parent In desperation, I entrusted my car keys to could be the last time I saw him alive, and an approachable onlooker, offering a quick though he barely knew it as my sister and I explanation before bolting through traffic on departed, we whispered our tearful goodbyes foot. to him, urging him to let go for a swift and It was Memorial Day and a beautiful seamless passing, should we miss it. morning for a parade. As daughters of a It took firefighter, many months my sisters after Dad died and I always before I could had a great contemplate love of my own loss parades. This and sometimes particular control my morning, tears. Times however, like my my father daughters’ lay dying at birthdays or Hospice. With the moment the parade my one-yearroute blocking old started my sole access pointing her to him, I index finger barely noticed to meet a everyone’s loved one’s, smiling faces. just like her I cannot recall big sister did e!

M & ever feeling so with my Dad pa nd ra G hindered. at that age We had been were the with Dad all night times I was unable to move beyond missing as he weakened, and then transferred from him and grieving his loss. My daughters my parents’ home to Hospice. By 5 a.m., I noticed, and asked me if I was sad because knew my infant daughter soon would be I missed Granddad. What they didn’t, and waking. I had struggled so much with my still don’t, realize is that I am missing him own expectations regarding my role as a for them: It is my children’s loss I mourn the daughter, versus my role as a mother. The most. stress of the past month had dwindled I understand parents should predecease my milk supply, but I was determined to their children. That is the natural order of breastfeed, and wanted to be home when things, after all. However, if your parent dies she awoke. In my heart, I was aware it while your own children are still young (or

yet to be), the loss is multiplied; for then you are no longer “simply” suffering your own loss, you are mindfully mourning the loss of a grandparent for your children, as well.

My girls — at two and a half years, and six months — were too young to know my Dad before he died; they will not have memories of him, except for those I establish since his death. I selfishly yearn for ten (twenty? thirty!) extra years so they could truly know their Granddad for all his quirky jokes, his faults and his honor.

A Changing Demographic The unfortunate truth is our children no longer have their lifetimes to establish a relationship with their grandparents. Many of us will be parenting our children without one, or both, of our own parents. Allison Gilbert explains this in her book Parentless Parents: How the Loss of Our Mothers and Fathers Impacts the Way We Raise Our Children. While our overall life expectancy is increasing, it is not keeping pace with the over 200 percent increase in the number of babies being born to women age 35 and over, over the last three decades.

“For the first time in U.S. history, millions of children (and their parents) are vulnerable to having less time with their grandparents than more,” says Gilbert.

I concur with Gilbert that this is a truly irreplaceable loss: not only for trusted childcare, but also in sharing knowledge, from family genealogy to specific skills sets like sailing, quilting or fishing. For those of us without a parent or parents, we must take on the responsibility of actively communicating aspects of that person’s life with our children.

How Can You Retain Their Memory?

“If you have some tangible things that were special to you from or because of your parents, sit with your child and tell them about it,” says “parentless parent” Hildi Cornwell, whose mother died when she was 14, and father when she was 26. “I told [my son] about my homemade pound puppies and we played with my purple pinewood derby car together a lot.”

Gilbert also suggests taking “Grandparent Field Trips” to Grandpa’s workplace or Grandma’s hometown, so your children can experience them. Also, to see what physical attributes your children take from their grandparents, Gilbert recommends layering photos. Another suggestion is you write letters to your child “from” his or her grandparent.

(This is a tough one for me personally, as my Dad was a man of few words; however, I love the idea.) If your parent is sick but able, have him record his voice reading a favorite book, like ’Twas the Night Before Christmas, or have her write or transcribe a letter to her grandchildren. These will become invaluable keepsakes and will provide conversation starters over the years.

How Can You Parent When You Need to Be Parented Yourself?

As Gilbert points out, no matter how many parenting books you read, the experts cannot supply the answers to a parent’s eternal question, “Was I like that?” One might take for granted a grandparent’s “When your Mom was your age …” tale, but for parents without parents, these stories are like gold. Gilbert suggests maintaining communication with your parents’ friends, neighbors, coworkers, and other family

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Gilbert also reminds you to parent yourself. You can’t expect your spouse or your in-laws to take on the role of parenting you. “I must do the things I think my parents would have urged me to do for myself,” says Gilbert, citing examples like working out, spending time with friends, or going for a walk. “My job alone is making sure that the voice that takes care of me, is equally loud.”

Helping With the Grief Death of any loved one, whether unanticipated or long-expected, elicits grief.

“Grief is very normal, and it can be very helpful to share your experiences with your peers,” says Vicky Ott, “That’s true for both children and adults.”

When explaining death to your children, Ott urges use of specific language. Say things like, “the body stopped working and [he/she] died,” rather than, “they are sleeping and they won’t ever wake up,” which can yield sleep issues for young children. “To pretend it did not happen, or it is not going to happen, is not helpful,” says Ott. In a way, parents without a parent are

given an opportunity to teach our children perspective. Our children’s lives will be full of ups and downs, and some of those hindrances will be inconvenient; others will be life-changing. Parents without parents can better illustrate the difference.

Networking Though Grief Just as there is no timeframe for grief, there is also no way to predict when it will strike the hardest. Though I anticipated all of “the firsts” to be difficult, my mood unexpectedly plummets when I am confronted by a sudden reminder, or when I hear of someone else’s loss. During those times, I rely on my network of friends. If you prefer virtually instant cyber support, you can join the Parentless Parents group on Facebook, which Gilbert moderates.

Unlike employees, parents do not get bereavement time. But we do enter into a sort of special club, populated by people who anticipate your needs before you can verbalize them: a beloved cousin who holds your screaming baby through the 21-gun salute at the funeral, or a parent of your child’s friend who realizes a common bond, or the thoughtful friend who, despite your

randpa Love You, G

protests, stocks your pantry and fridge while you are at the hospital.

You will especially recognize those who have lost loved ones before you, because they look you squarely in the eye when they say they are “here for you.” When we are suffering, you are there to hold our hands, or our car keys, at precisely the right moment.

And for those spontaneous acts of kindness, we appreciate you, always.

What can you do if your parent friend loses a parent?

Watch the kids while the family makes funeral preparations. My in-laws were on their way to visit Dad, but stayed extra days to watch our girls while my husband accompanied me to the funeral home, church, etc. Their presence for my children during a difficult time was invaluable.

Sit with their children during the funeral, especially if they are present for the services. This necessitates being aware of how the parents are communicating the death to their children, and following along with their script.

Be specific. After making all of the decisions involving a funeral, the last thing

Our Baby

I wanted was to make another decision.

Instead of saying, “Let me know what day works best for you,” say, “I’m making a chicken pot pie and I’m bringing it over Tuesday around 5 p.m. Is that OK?” Remember the important dates. Copy the deceased’s birth dates and dates of death from the prayer cards into your own calendar, and call your friend the week of the anniversary.

Share a warm memory with your friend when you recall it. My cousin randomly shared a story she remembered about my Dad winning a headstand contest at a family gathering, and his keys and spare change falling out of his pockets. I had forgotten that moment until she emailed me; but I savored the smile it brought to my face upon recalling it.

Listen. If your friend calls because she is sad about losing her parent (even months or years later) listen and identify with her loss. Don’t offer consolation like, “He’s in a better place now,” because those words ring empty when that moment of missing him is so great.

— Kara Benken Garrod

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Activities and science stations along a 1mile trail, Slime, spore prints, mushroom hunt, and more!

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Tickets available Online!

www.corvallisenvironmentalcenter.org

November 2013, Valley Parent

9

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10 Valley Parent, November 2013

541-926-2612 excitement of back-to-school.

New school supplies 1425 and new routines Pacific Blvd. motivate many kids to start the school year with a bang. But that momentum won’t last forever, and once fall hits and the homework load increases, you may find your child in a slump.

The symptoms of a school slump are easy to spot. Your child trudges home with a sagging backpack after school, and discards it by the door until the next morning. Any questions you ask about school are met with an eye roll and/or a shrug. The process of getting your child out of bed in the morning is growing longer and more painful with each passing day. You know something is wrong, but what should you do?

Luckily, slumps like these are not permanent. All most kids need is a little energy boost, and a couple of teacher’s tricks of the trade. Read on to find out how you can help your child bust out of the slump.

Slump Buster #1: Retool the workspace Remember all those pencils, folders and notebooks you got during the back-to-school frenzy? Well, chances some have been used up, misplaced, or fallen apart. While there’s no need to replace every school supply that’s not up to snuff, sometimes some cool new tools - mechanical pencils, fresh erasers, and a new thumb drive - can motivate kids to get back on top of the workload.

If you have time, dedicate an afternoon to laying out your child’s homework space.

Teachers are always rearranging desks and reassigning seats. It gives students a new, refreshed perspective for learning. Do the same at home. In fact, as a teacher, my first assignment of the school year is having my students draw their homework space.

Visualizing where they’ll accomplish work helps kids actually want to do it.

Help your child organize her desk, or set aside space in your kitchen for supplies. Ask your child for input on how to arrange the space to give him some ownership. You can even call the area his “office” so he knows you take it seriously!

Slump Buster #2: Know what’s up Parents have a lot on their plates, and

teachers know this. They try to keep you upto-date in the easiest possible way. Many teachers have a website or weekly newsletter. Read these; they are written for parents.

If you notice a big assignment or unit of study that might be the source of your child’s slump, talk to her about it. Ask what you can do to help.

Remember, the most important source of knowing what’s going on at school is your child. Ask open-ended, yet focused, questions.

Things like, “What did you do in science?” will elicit a better response than “How was your day?” You’ll quickly learn what your child’s interests are, and they are more likely to share if you continue to ask.

Slump Buster #3: Break it up Contrary to popular belief, teachers don’t give homework to punish students (or their parents). Most of the time, it’s an opportunity for independent practice, or to apply skills learned in class.

Be positive about the homework process.

Schedule movement breaks for younger children to help them express their energy and refocus (this is why schools have recess).

A break could mean getting to go outside for a bit, or helping you make a snack. For older kids, split study sessions into chunks

Slump Buster #4: Feed their minds (and bodies) School-day schedules are rigorous for kids of all ages. In many cases, kids have lunch early in the day, so by the time they get home, all they can think about is eating. If your child seems low on energy when he gets home, have a healthy snack available. If you aren’t around when your child gets home, make sure there are options available for him such cold cuts for a small sandwich, fruit salad, or veggies and dip.

But don’t stop with snacks. Keep in mind that eating breakfast is a crucial part of your child’s day. Kids need food in the morning like grown-ups need coffee. If your child refuses to eat at home, look into having her eat a hot breakfast at school, or pack a cereal bar and piece of fruit.

Slump Buster #5: Show up Make a point to attend events at your child’s school, such as open houses, concerts, or academic fairs and exhibitions. Events like these allow you to show your support and celebrate kids’ accomplishments. Parentteacher conferences and meetings are important too. When your kids get to see you in their environment, it gives them a chance to show off.

Also keep in mind that, like you, teachers are very busy. While helpful parent volunteers are be a huge asset to a classroom, there are other ways to participate too. If you’re unavailable during school hours, brainstorm things you can do from home, like compiling photos from the class field trip. You learn what’s happening in class, and if your child sees you making an effort to be involved, she may want to make an extra effort too.

You don’t have to be a teacher to help kids overcome the school-day doldrums; you just need these sure-to-stimulate strategies.

Now get slump-busting!

Beth Fornauf is a freelance writer and mother of two. As a teacher, she enjoyed helping elementary and middle school students bust out of many mid-term slumps!

VP

Calendar

November 2013 Ongoing Events

Creative Dance. Downtown Dance, 223 NW 2nd St., Corvallis. Mondays, 3:30-4:15 p.m. ages 3/12-5; Thursdays 3:45-4:30 p.m., ages 4-6; Fridays 10:15-11 a.m., ages 3/12- 5. $13/session. These active classes are a perfect introduction to the world of dance through creative movement games, props, and stories. Skill development includes basic coordination, rhythm and dance concepts. Guaranteed to foster a love of dance!

For information call (541) 829-0070 or visit www.

DowntownDanceCorvallis.com.

Drop N Shop. Wacky Indoor Bounce, 202 NW 3rd St., Corvallis. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays, and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and 3-7 p.m. Thursdays. $12 per child. It’s parent time to shop or run errands, have a lunch date with a friend or spouse, or workout. Reservations are required one week in advance and are for a two hour time slot. Child must be out of diapers. Snack crackers and beverages are provided. Call (541) 757-6512 or visit www.wackybounce.com to reserve your spot.

Family Climb Time. Indoor Climbing Center, 425 SW 26th St., Corvallis. 1-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Cost is $3 per child, $6 per adult with a two-kids-per-parent limit. Parents who are RecSports members bring only their current OSU ID to get in. Parents/guardians must sponsor and belay the child at all times. Visit http:// oregonstate.edu/recsports/node/58#Family%20Climb or call (541) 737-1595 for information.

Family Connections Night. Osborn Aquatics Center, 1940 NW Highland Dr., Corvallis. 6:45-8:45 p.m.

Wednesdays. Suggested donation: $5/adult/evening.

Kids swim free! Ongoing education and support in building healthy marriages and families. Marriage Enrichment on 1st, 3rd and 5th Wednesdays of the month. Parent Support on 2nd and 4th Wednesdays. For more information contact Dave Jackson at (541)7609637 or familyconnectionsnight@gmail.com.

Family Movie Swim at Osborn Aquatic Center. 1940 NW Highland Dr., Corvallis. 7-9 p.m. every third Friday. $4.75/adult, $3.75/youth 7-17, $2.50/child 0-6.

Enjoy a swim-in movie with the family. There will be a different family-friendly movie projected pool-side each month. Visit www.corvallisoregon.gov/pool or call (541) 766-7946 for information.

La Leche League of Corvallis and Lebanon. Free services. La Leche League provides breastfeeding information and encouragement for families by phone, e-mail, group meetings, and online. We serve expectant and/or breastfeeding mothers and their families. We offer information and resources on the normal course of breastfeeding, help with overcoming breastfeeding challenges, and encouragement and peer group support for parents of infants and toddlers. For information about local meetings and programs call (541) 766-0055 or visit http://www.parentingsuccessnetwork.org/community-resources/community-resources/1185-2.

Lil’ Kickers Winter Classes. Corvallis Sports Park, 175 Southwest Twin Oaks Circle, Corvallis. $10/membership. Class fees vary. Days and times depend on age group. Ages 18 mos.-9yrs. Lil’ Kickers is a child development program with an emphasis on soccer!

Classes are fun, high energy, and are a great place to get to know new families! For information call (541) 7570776 or visit www.corvallissportspark.com.

Mommy and Me Dance. Dance Corvallis, 1898 SW 3rd St., Corvallis.1:30 Thursdays. First class is free. $40/month for returning students. This 40 minute class focuses on teaching young children coordination and the fundamentals of a dance class. They will sing and dance along to their favorite songs, while having fun with new friends. For ages 24 months-3 ½ years with any adult.

Visit www.dancecorvallis.com for details or call (541) 556-2470.

MOPS–Mothers of PreSchoolers. First Baptist Church. 125 NW 10th St., Corvallis. 9-11 a.m. every other Friday beginning October 4. Cost is $45/year. It is a great opportunity for mothers of preschoolers to gather together. There is childcare provided during this time.

If you would like more information about MOPS please contact Sarah MacClary at sarah.macclary@gmail.com.

Find us on Facebook or visit www.mops.org.

Music a la Carte. OSU Memorial Union Lounge, 2501 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis. Noon-12:45 p.m. most Fridays during the fall, winter, and spring terms. Free.

These “brown bag” concerts showcase a wide variety of musicians and performance ensembles. Bring your lunch or purchase something from one of several restaurants in the MU. Call (541) 737-4061 or visit http:// mu.oregonstate.edu/events-amp-entertainment/music for details.

Open Recreation Swim at Osborn Aquatic Center.

1940 NW Highland Dr., Corvallis. 1-3 p.m. MondayThursday, 7-9 p.m. Wednesday, 1-9 p.m. Friday, 1-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. $4.75/Adults, $3.75/youth 7-17, $2.50/children 0-6. Visits www.corvallisoregon. gov/pool or call (541) 766-7946 for information.

Oregon by Nature. Benton County Historical Museum, 1101 Main St., Philomath. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Tuesday-Saturday through 2013. Free. Oregon By Nature includes Oregon state symbols, a 19th century Klamath canoe made from a single fir tree, mammals, birds, fossils, rocks, a hands-on area and a few other surprises. Informational labels are available on touch screen computers or your own smartphone. See www. bentoncountymuseum.org/exhibitions/kimono/ for information.

Parent/Child Swim Class. Albany Community Pool, 2150 36th Ave. SE, Albany. 6-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. $4/child, free/parents or $37/10 class punch card. Drop in class, no registration required. Visit www. cityofalbany.net/departments/parks-and-recreation/ aquatics/albany-community-pool for details or call (541) 967-4521.

Toddler Time Swim at Osborn Aquatic Center.

1940 NW Highland Dr., Corvallis. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Monday-Friday. $4.75/Adults, $3.75/youth 7-17, $2.50/ children 0-6. Children 6 and under are invited to enjoy a fun, mellow time in the pool. Siblings 8 and under welcome. The relaxed experience during this special session is designed to help infants and toddlers grow comfortable in the water. A parent or guardian needs to accompany their children. Visit www.corvallisoregon. gov/pool or call (541) 766-7946 for information.

Whiteside Theatre Tour. Whiteside Theatre, 361 SW Madison Ave., Corvallis. Noon-1p.m. first Mondays.

Free/members; $5/non-members. All tours of the Whiteside Theatre start promptly on time. Once a tour enters the building the doors are closed and joining the tour is not permitted. Videography of any kind is not permitted.To reserve your space simply e-mail reservations@whitesidetheatre.org with your name, any special arrangements, and the number in your group. Admission will be paid at the door on the day of the tour.

Thursday 7

Adult Advanced/Beginner Hip-Hop. Downtown Dance, 223 NW 2nd St., Corvallis. 6:15-7:30 p.m. $13/ session/teen/adult. A fun and supportive setting for those with a little dance and/or hip-hop experience.

Explore current hip-hop, pop, and funk dance styles through basic technique and choreography. Visit www.

DowntownDanceCorvallis.com or call (541) 829-0070 for information.

Book Making: Start to Finish. The Arts Center, 700 SW Madison Ave., Corvallis. 4-5:30 p.m. Thursdays

through December 19, except Thanksgiving. $65/nonmembers, $58.50/members. Students in grades 1-8 will learn how to make a book from the ground up! They will make paper, create cover art, create internal art, and bind their books. Throughout the process, your young artists will determine what they want to include in their books: a story, poetry, images, a comic book story, etc.

Scholarships are available. For info contact John Knight at john@theartscenter.net, call (541) 754-1551 x652 or visit http://theartscenter.net/about-after-school-classes/.

Jazz Funk Dance. Downtown Dance, 223 NW 2nd St., Corvallis. Noon-1 p.m. Free/ first class. Adult/ open level. A high-energy technique class fusing jazz and hip-hop styles to the sounds of some funk favorites! For information and fees, visit www.

DowntownDanceCorvallis.com or call (541) 829-0070.

Little Bookworms Preschool Storytime. Lebanon Public Library, 55 Academy St., Lebanon. 11 a.m. Free.

Children ages 3-6 to explore their world interactively through books, songs and finger plays. A craft follows every storytime. No storytime November 28. Call (541) 258-4926 or visit www.lebanon.plinkit.org for info.

Modern Dance I. Oddfellows Hall, 223 SW 2nd St., Corvallis. 3:45-4:45 p.m. $12/single class, $40/month.

Children 8-10 years will learn basic ballet and Modern technique in a variety of contemporary dance styles. All classes include floor and center work, body swings, jumps, leaps, turns, and choreography. Notify Donna at ervin95@comcast.net or call (541) 752-6329 if you would like to stop in for a free trial class or to observe.

For information visit www.moderndancetechnique.com.

Oklahoma! CVHS Auditorium, 4444 NW Highland Dr., Corvallis. 7p.m. $10/adults/seniors; $8/students; $5/youth; Free/kids 4 and under. This beloved musical comes alive at CVHS with incredible talent, beautiful sets, lovely costumes and music that will keep you singing for days. Show runs for the next three weekends: Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m.; matinee Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. through 11/24. For information visit http://visitcorvallis.com/ai1ec_event/ oklahoma/?instance_id=82069.

Paper Beads. Swanson Community Room, Swanson Park, 712 Jackson St., Albany. $20 In-city/$26. $5 supply fee. Learn how to choose the best papers, how to roll, and how to finish off beads that will rival glass and clay beads. Choose your best ones to make your own beautiful stretch bracelets. Pre-registration is required one week prior to start date. For information and registration call (541) 917-7777.

Prenatal Yoga. EcoFusion Fitness, 116 SW 4th St., Corvallis. 6-7 p.m. Tuesdays, 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

Thursdays, 11 a.m.-noon Saturdays. $10/class or $70/10 classes. Prenatal yoga is a great way to prepare the body and mind for birth, boost mood, and reduce pregnancy aches and pains. Modifications are available to meet various backgrounds and levels of experience. This class is open to women in any stage of a complicationfree pregnancy. For information, call (541) 740-2516 or visit www.ecofusionfitness.com.

Shakespeare’s McBeth. Linn-Benton Community College, 6500 Pacific Blvd SW, Albany. 7:30 p.m.

Thursday and Friday; 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturday. $7-$10. Join Shakespeare’s tragic story of Murder, Betrayal and Witchcraft. The entire story is told through music and movement by the LBCC Theatre and Dance departments as they bring to you an adaptation of Shakespeare with no words!! For ticket information call (541) 917-4531 or visit http://www.linnbenton.edu/russelltripptheater.

Teen Yoga. LiveWell Studio, 971 NW Spruce Ave., Ste 101, Corvallis. 4-5 p.m. Free. Yoga just for teens. Get stronger and more flexible, feel easier and happier in your body, relieve stress and relax. Yoga designed just for you! For info e-mail frontdesk@livewellstudio.com.

Oklahoma

This beloved musical comes alive at CVHS with incredible talent, beautiful sets, lovely costumes and music that will keep you singing for days. Show runs for the next three weekends: Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m.; matinee Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. through 11/24.

Where: CVHS Auditorium, 4444 NW Highland Dr., Corvallis.

When: Thursday, November 7 • 7p.m.

Cost: $10/adults/seniors; $8/students; $5/youth; Free/kids 4 and under.

Info: http://visitcorvallis.com/ ai1ec_event/oklahoma/?instance_ id=82069.

The Game’s Afoot. Albany Civic Theater, 111 First Ave., Albany. 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2:30 p.m. Sundays. $12 general, $9/senior/junior. This murder mystery takes place in 1936 in a Connecticut castle.

The glamor and hilarity are non-stop in this glittering whodunit. For information call (541) 928-4603 or visit http://albanycivic.org.

The Sound of Music. The Majestic Theatre, 115 SW 2nd St., Corvallis. 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays; 2:30 Sundays through 11/24. $16/adults, $12/students/ seniors. The final collaboration between Rodgers & Hammerstein was destined to become the world’s most beloved musical. Based on the memoir of Maria von Trapp, the show includes many songs that have become standards, such as “Edelweiss”, “My Favorite Things”, “Climb Ev’ry Mountain”, “Do-Re-Mi”, and the title song “The Sound of Music.” This all-volunteer production celebrates the 100th birthday of The Majestic Theatre which first opened in 1913. For information visit www.majestic.org/category/events/.

Mama Baby Yoga. EcoFusion Fitness, 116 SW 4th St., Corvallis. 10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. $70 for 10 sessions or $10 drop in rate. A yoga class for moms and babies 2 weeks to 4 months. For information, call (541) 740-2516 or visit www.ecofusionfitness.com.

Friday 8

Creative Dance. Downtown Dance, 223 NW 2nd St., Corvallis. 10:15-11:15 a.m. Free/first class. Ages 3 ½-5.

Introduction to the world of dance through creative movement games, props and stories. For information visit www.DowntownDanceCorvallis.com or call (541) 829-0070.

Calendar

continued on page 12

November 2013, Valley Parent

11

Calendar

continued from page 11

Family Swim. Albany Community Pool, 2150 36th Ave. SE, Albany. 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays. $3/youth, $3.50/adult, free/under 3 years old, $10/family. Children 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult in the water. Visit www.cityofalbany.net/parks/ facilities/acp.php for details or call (541) 967-4521.

Hip Hop Dance. The Little Gym of Corvallis, 958 NW Circle Blvd., Ste. A. 3:45 p.m., ages 4-6; 4:50 p.m., ages 6-12. Cost varies. This class is half dance, half gymnastics. Kids will be exposed to jazz and Hip Hop styles, learning specific moves and exploring creative freestyle dance. Call (541) 753-0950 for information and enrollment or see www.TheLittleGym.com/CorvallisOR. Parent Survival Night-PSN. The Little Gym of Corvallis, 958 NW Circle Blvd., Ste. A. 6-9 p.m.

Second Friday. $10-$35 depending on membership and number of children enrolled. Ages 3-12 (must be toilet independent). Parents call it a break from the kids. Kids call it a break from their parents. It’s a win-win situation. Parents enjoy some adult time to see a movie, catch up with friends, or enjoy a meal without—ahem— pint-sized food critics in tow. Meanwhile, children get some quality “kid time” in a safe, fun, familiar place with trained instructors who lead them through games and music-filled activities. Don’t wait. PSNs book up fast! Call (541) 753-0950 to register in advance or reserve a slot online at www.thelittlegym.com/ CorvallisOR/Pages/psn-schedule.aspx.

Parents’ Night Out. Osborn Aquatic Center, 1940 NW Highland Dr., Corvallis. 6-10 p.m. $20/child. Drop off the kids for some organized games, fun, and prizes. The swim instructor team will keep the kids safe, and they’ll have a blast. Visit www.corvallisoregon.gov/index. aspx?page=271 or call (541) 766-7946 for information and pre-registration.

Teens Modern Dance. Oddfellows Hall, 223 SW 2nd St., Corvallis. 4:15-5:35 p.m. Mondays, 4-5:30 p.m.

Fridays. $42/month/1 class per week-$75/month/2 classes per week. Beginning or continuing students learn a variety of Modern Dance styles. All classes include floor and center work, body swings, balance, footwork, jumps, leaps, turns and choreography. Notify Donna at ervin95@comcast.net or call (541) 752-6329 if you would like to stop in for a free trial class or to observe.

For information visit www.moderndancetechnique.com.

Oklahoma! See 11/7.

Shakespeare’s McBeth. See 11/7.

The Game’s Afoot. See 11/7.

The Sound of Music. See 11/7.

Saturday 9

Adoptive Families Potluck. First Congregational Church, 4515 SW West Hills Blvd., Corvallis. 1-4 p.m.

Please bring your favorite snacks to share (note the time is after lunch and before dinner). We are meeting in the same location as in recent years. Any favorite foods from your child’s country of birth are particularly welcome. For information e-mail Sarah at s_anderson_wilk@hotmail.com.

Albany Farmers’ Market. SW Ellsworth St. and SW 4th Ave., Albany. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. through November 23.

Free admission. Features fresh, locally-grown, locallyproduced dairy, meat, and farm goods. See http://locallygrown.org/home for information.

Children’s Concert: Dogbreath Express and Bubbles. Corvallis Public Library Meeting Room, 645 NW Monroe, Corvallis. 11 a.m. Free. Kenji Bunch will perform on the viola and Monica Ohuchi will perform on the piano. This concert is presented by CorvallisOSU Piano International and Friends of the Library. For information visit http://visitcorvallis.com.

Clemens Community Pool Open Rec. Philomath High School, 2054 Applegate St., Philomath. 1-3 p.m. Saturdays during the school year. $3.25/adults, $2.50/student/seniors, free/age 5 and under, $8/family (Attendant of at least 14 years old must accompany children under 7).They also offer lessons, lap swim, aqua fitness, and swim team. Visit www.philomath.k12. or.us/pool or call (541) 929-3584 for information.

Corvallis Farmers’ Market. NW Jackson Ave. and NW 1st St., Corvallis. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays through November 27. Free admission.

Features fresh, locally-grown, locally-produced dairy, meat, and farm goods. Visit http://locallygrown.org/ home Inspirations and Innovations Fair. Chintimini Senior Center, 2601 Northwest Tyler Ave., Corvallis. 1-5 p.m. $5.This Fair is about new technologies, clever inventions and learning DIY, such as converting a bike to an electric vehicle, learning some basic bike repair, or learning how to make your own bread and more. Spend time making something to take home. This event will stir your imagination and offer you a chance to meet

12 Valley Parent, November 2013

Veterans Day Parade Albany hosts the largest Veterans Day parade west of the Mississippi. The parade starts at the overpass on Pacific Highway and ends at the Linn County courthouse at 300 3rd Ave. SW. Where: Historic Downtown Albany.

When: Monday, November 11; 11 a.m.

Cost: Free Info: Visit http://albanyveteransdayparade. org. and talk with others who are interested in the same things you are. For more information, call 541-7666959.

Kids Night Out Laser and Fog Night. Wacky Indoor Bounce, 202 NW 3rd St., Corvallis. 5:30-9:15 p.m. $15/ child. Parents go wacky while your kids enjoy a night out. Snacks and beverages are provided. For reservations call (541) 757-6512 or visit www.wackybounce. com/kidsnightout.html for information.

La fiesta de su biblioteca. Corvallis Public Library, Youth Activity Room, 645 NW Monroe Ave., Corvallis.

Free 11 a.m.-noon, second Saturdays. Come and enjoy a fun bilingual English/Spanish program. Children of all ages welcome. Crafts are made after story time.

Refreshments served. Venga y disfrute de la fiesta de su biblioteca. Un programa bilingüe cada mes en la biblioteca. Gratis Refrescos. Call (541) 766-6794 for info.

Little Sprouts-Fresh Green Arrangements. Garland Nursery, 5470 NE Hwy 20, Corvallis. 11 a.m. $5/child.

Little Sprouts will feel the holiday spirit by building fresh green centerpieces that will sit with pride on the Thanksgiving table or make a wonderful gift.

Registration required. Call (541) 753-6601 to register or see www.garlandnursery.com for information.

Play in the Rain Day. Mount Pisgah Arboretum, 34901 Frank Parrish Rd., Eugene. 10-3 p.m. Free.

Discover how fun, easy, and rewarding it is to spend time outdoors in nature—in all kinds of weather. Local outdoor recreation and education organizations will come together to provide fun activities for you and your family. Enjoy tree climbing, campfire cooking, nature exploration, and crafts. Play in the Rain Day will happen rain or shine, so dress for the weather. Visit www. youthinnature.org.

Oklahoma! See 11/7.

Prenatal Yoga. See 11/7.

Shakespeare’s McBeth. See 11/7.

The Game’s Afoot. See 11/7.

The Sound of Music. See 11/7.

Sunday 10

Fungus Fun Family Hike. Peavy Arboretum, NW Peavy Arboretum Rd., Corvallis. Noon-3 p.m. $10/ family. Family event put on by the Avery House Nature Center to explore local fungi during a one-mile hike.

Several stations will be set up along the trail to hunt for mushrooms, create a spore print, and investigate slime and other decomposers. Mycologists and other naturalists will be on hand to answer more advanced questions about mushrooms. Dress warmly as we will be outside rain or shine but some activities will be under cover.

The Avery House Nature Center welcomes your family to this outing at Peavy Arboretum to learn more about the “fungus among us”! Cost: $10 per family. Space is limited; register in advance. Buy tickets online at www. corvallisenvironmentalcenter.org or call (541) 753-9211 for information.

Heritage Mall Pop-Up Art Activity. Heritage Mall, 1895 14th Ave. SE, Albany. 1-2 p.m. Free. Every second Sunday each month express your creativity through a variety of art forms. Visit www.heritagemall.com/event/ mall-events/2145423669 call (541) 967-8238 for info.

Oklahoma! See 11/7.

The Sound of Music. See 11/7.

Monday 11

Parenting with Compassionate Communication Class Series. 2255 NW 25th St., Corvallis. 6-8:30 p.m. second and fourth Monday through November 25. $120/ person, $200/two co-parents. World-renowned transformational model, also called Nonviolent Communication.

For information visit www.tinataylor.co or call (541) 753-2255.

Patterns from Around the World: Globetrotters

No-School Day Camp. The Arts Center, 700 SW Madison Ave., Corvallis. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $70/nonmembers, $63/members. Students in grades 1-7. While school is out, Teaching Artists will share their expertise with young artists for a full day camp. Students will explore dots and stripes in world textiles, tessellations, pointillist art from Australia’s native peoples, block printing, and more! Scholarships are available. For information contact John Knight at john@theartscenter. net, call (541) 754-1551 x652 or visit http://theartscenter.net/when-schools-out-arts-in-globetrotters-no-schooldays/.

Science Pub-Tom McCall and Oregon’s Environmental Legacy. Old World Deli, 341 SW 2nd St., Corvallis. 6-8 p.m. Free. Governor Tom McCall’s fight against the pollution of Oregon’s waterways and its unregulated growth left a legacy that continues to resonate with people today. Bill Robbins will discuss the significance of McCall’s leadership as governor from 1967 to 1975. The highlight of the evening will be a showing of McCall’s famous documentary, Pollution in Paradise, a one-hour program that aired on KGW-TV in November 1962. Call (541) 737-4717 or visit http:// oregonstate.edu/terra/science-pub-corvallis/ for info.

Southtown Performers Spotlight. Fire Works Restaurant, 1115 SW 3rd St., Corvallis. 8-10 p.m.

(Formerly Open Mic). Free admission with $2 puchase, $5 entry fee. Enjoy a great new show every Monday at FireWorks! The Southtown Performers Spotlight is a family-friendly evening of entertainment, featuring music, song, and poetry by local artists. Visit http:// southtownlive.com/events.html. Sign up in advance on Facebook by messaging Öcean LiffAnderson or call (541) 754-6958 for information.

Veterans Day Parade. Historic Downtown Albany.11 a.m. Albany hosts the largest Veterans Day parade west of the Mississippi. The parade starts at the overpass on Pacific Highway and ends at the Linn County courthouse at 300 3rd Ave. SW. For information visit http:// albanyveteransdayparade.org.

Teens Modern Dance. See 11/8.

Tuesday 12

$5 Movies at Ninth Street Cinema. 1750 NW 9th St., Corvallis. All movies are $5 all day. Call (541) 7581028 or visit www.fandango.com/regalninthstreet4cinemas_aaaxg/theaterpage for showings.

Baton Twirling Class. Dance Corvallis, 1898 SW 3rd St., Corvallis. 4:30 p.m. $40/month, first class is free. Boys and girls welcome, ages 4+. Baton Twirling classes taught by Kailey McKay, former OSU Feature Twirler. Private lessons are also available. Please email Kailey at reignbatontwirling@gmail.com if interested or call (541) 556-2470. Like our Facebook page at https:// www.facebook.com/ReignBatonTwirling.

Beginning Cuban Salsa Dancing. Impulse Bar & Grill, 1425 NW Monroe Ave., Corvallis. 6-7:30 p.m. $40/four-week course. Beginner course (16 and older) in Cuban Salsa (Casino) and Rueda de Casino (a fun, group dance from Cuba). Learn the first set of fundamental motions and basics to this amazing dance, and be immediately infused into an incredible community of people who love the music and culture of Cuba.

Call (541) 230-1114 or see http://www.rumbanana.org/ Classes.html for info.

Celtic Jam. See Imagine Coffee, 5460 SW Philomath Blvd., Corvallis. 7 p.m. Tuesdays. See http://imaginecoffee.net/events-in-corvallis/ for information.

Contemporary Dance. Downtown Dance, 223 NW 2nd St., Corvallis. 6:30-8 p.m. $13/session. Intermediate level for adults and teens. The dance fuses a variety of modern techniques and current dance styles. Visit www.

DowntownDanceCorvallis.com or call (541) 829-0070 for information.

Food and Water for Winter Outdoor Recreation.

First Alternative Co-Op (South Store), 1107 SE 3rd St., Corvallis. 6:30 p.m. Free. Learn about various options for trail foods and hydration strategies for your next backcountry ski or snowshoe outing. The instructor will talk about how many extra calories you burn in winter activities and how to make sure you’re eating enough while on the go. Other topics include fluid requirements, the hype about electrolytes, and how to keep your water from freezing when the temperatures drop below 32 degrees. Food and beverages provided. For information and registration visit www.jessbfit.com/fall-outdoorfitness-2013/food-water-winter-outdoor-recreation/ or call (503) 446-0803.

Modern Voices Book Club. Main Library, 2450 14th Ave., SE, Albany. Noon. Free. Discussing “The Orphan Master’s Son” by Adam Johnson. Call (541) 917-7580 for information.

Rotary Club of Albany Meeting. Pop’s Branding Iron, 901 Pacific Blvd. SE, Albany. Noon. Free. Rotary of Albany has purchased and helped install playground equipment, sponsored an annual Christmas party for underprivileged children, provided grants to local service organizations, given scholarships to deserving students, and sponsored recognition programs for outstanding young people. E-mail dale.stowell@linnbenton.edu for information.

Teen Writers Group. Corvallis Public Library, Youth Activity Room, 645 NW Monroe Ave., Corvallis. 6 p.m.. Free. Every Tuesday. Teen Writers Group open to all teens ages 12-18 interested in writing. This group is led by a local YA author, Bryan Bliss. For information call (541) 766-6794.

Mama Baby Yoga. See 11/7.

Prenatal Yoga. See 11/7.

Wednesday 13

Albany Fitwalkers. Villas of Courtyard Villa, 1929 Grand Prairie Road. SE, Albany. 7 p.m. Second Wednesday. This group sponsors walking events and presents walks around the community. Their motto is “walk for the health of it.” For information, contact Rozy Weatherby at (541) 926-7890 or email her at wrozy@yahoo.com.

All Boys Hip Hop. Dance Corvallis, 1898 SW 3rd St., Corvallis. 5:30 Wednesdays. First class is free. $40/ month for returning students. Boys can benefit from dance and from the concentration and strength that dance builds. These classes are designed to encourage athleticism. Boys will work on individual skills as well as a group combination. Visit www.dancecorvallis.com for details or call (541) 556-2470.

Baby and Me Storytime. Lebanon Public Library, 55 Academy St., Lebanon. 10 a.m. Free. Designed for ages 0-24 months and their caregivers. Enjoy interactive time with your tot through stories, finger plays, and music. Call (541) 258-4926 or visit www.lebanon. plinkit.org.

Creative Movement. Oddfellows Hall, 223 SW 2nd St., Corvallis. 3:30-4:20 p.m. $12/single class, $40/ month. Children 4 1/2 to 6 years explore the elements of dance: shapes, rhythm, tempo, pathways, and more.

Notify Donna at ervin95@comcast.net or call (541) 752-6329 if you would like to stop in for a free trial class or to observe. Visit www.moderndancetechnique. com.

Fall Fitness Series. Oddfellows Hall, 223 SW 2nd St., Corvallis. 3:30-4:20 p.m. $12/single class, $40/month.

Children 4 1/2 to 6 years explore the elements of dance: shapes, rhythm, tempo, pathways, and more. Notify Donna at ervin95@comcast.net or call (541) 752-6329 if you would like to stop in for a free trial class or to observe. For info visit www.moderndancetechnique. com.

Geisel Book Club for Beginning Readers. Corvallis Public Library Youth Activity Room, 645 NW Monroe Ave., Corvallis. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Open to any child in grades K-2 who is beginning to read. Monthly meetings include a discussion about the book, activities, and other stories. This month’s title is The Bookstore Ghost

by Barbara Maitland. A limited number of copies of each title will be available at the Youth Reference Desk.

For information call (541) 766-6794 or visit www.thebestlibrary.net/library-events-kidslinks-119.

Hey! Look us Over Maternity Program. Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, 3600 NW Samaritan Drive, Corvallis. 7-9 p.m. Second Wednesday. Free. Expectant parents will tour the Center for Women and Families and meet the delivery staff.

Call (541) 768-4752 for information.

Introduction to Modern. Oddfellows Hall, 223 SW 2nd St., Corvallis. 3:30-4:20 p.m. $12/single class, $40/ month. Children 4 1/2 to 6 years explore the elements of dance: shapes, rhythm, tempo, pathways, and more.

Notify Donna at ervin95@comcast.net or call (541) 752-6329 if you would like to stop in for a free trial class or to observe. For information visit www.modern-

dancetechnique.com.

LEGO Club. Lebanon Public Library, 55 Academy St., Lebanon.1:30-2:30 p.m. second Wednesdays. Free. Kids ages 6-13 work independently to create LEGO masterpieces with the LEGOs provided. Call (541) 258-4926 or visit www.lebanon.plinkit.org.

OSUsed Store Sale. 644 SW 13th St., Corvallis. Noon3 p.m. Free admission. The OSUsed Store is open for its afternoon public sale. Items for sale include computers and computer accessories, furniture (desks, file cabinets, tables, chairs, bookcases, etc), office supplies, sporting goods, household items, bicycles and much more. See www.surplus.oregonstate.edu for information.

PEACE Parent Support Group. Osborn Aquatic Center Meeting Room, 1940 NW Highland Dr., Corvallis.

6:45-8:45 p.m. Wednesdays. Suggested donation: $5/ adult/evening. Parents deserve a little PEACE. Join this fun, relaxed, ongoing Parent Enrichment and Continuing Education (PEACE) group. Different topic each night. Children swim for free while parents grow in their parenting skills! For more information contact Dave Jackson at (541) 760-9637 or familyconnectionsnight@gmail.com.

Pre-Natal Yoga. Live Well Studio, 971 NW Spruce Ave., Corvallis. 7-8:15 p.m. $11-12. Using a carefully chosen set of poses, support your changing body and develop the strength and openness needed for giving birth. Develop the breath and mindfulness skills which are essential to childbirth and motherhood. For information, call (541) 224-6566 or visit www.livewellstudio. com.

Rise and Shine Storytime. Philomath Community Library, 1050 Applegate St., Philomath.10-10:45 a.m.

Wednesdays. Free. Children 2-5 will wake up with reading, singing, movement, and art projects. For information call (541) 929-3016 or visit www.thebestlibrary. net/library-events-kidslinks-119.

Rotary Club of Corvallis Mornings. The Osborne Aquatic Center. 1940 NW Highland Dr., Corvallis. 7 a.m. (6:30 social time). Free. Meet every Wednesday for fellowship, breakfast, and an informative and interesting presentation from a guest speaker. Local projects have included stage curtains for Lincoln School, clothing for residents at Jackson Street Youth Shelter, and art supplies for schools. For information visit www.corvallismorningrotary.org.

Teen Makers. Corvallis Public Library, Youth Activity Room, 645 NW Monroe Ave., Corvallis. 6 p.m. Second and fourth Wednesday. Free. Arduino and Raspberry Pi are low cost, open-source, physical computing platforms that can be used to learn programming, detect sensor input, blink LEDs, and control motors. The Library has purchased SparkFun Inventor’s Kits and Raspberry Pi boards for Teen Makers to learn programming and explore electronics. Bring your own laptop if you would like. For information call (541) 766-6794.

Corvallis Farmers’ Market. See 11/9.

Family Swim. See 11/8.

The Sound of Music. See 11/7.

Thursday 14

Hearts of the Valley Talent Search Open Mic Entry.

Old World Deli, 341 SW 2nd St., Corvallis. 7-9 p.m. second and fourth Thursdays except ll/28. The first and second place winners from this event will be entered into the Next Level, a bi-monthly talent search, where they will compete for a cash prize, a one hour recording session at Wild Rose Studios, and entry into the Hearts of the Valley Talent Search. The first and second place winners of the Next Level go on to compete at the biannual Hearts of the Valley Talent Search. For information contact clay@wildrosestudios.com.

La Leche League of Lebanon Meetings. Lebanon Community Hospital, 525 N. Santiam Hwy., Lebanon.

6 p.m. Second Thursday. Free. Breastfeeding informa-

tion and support for expectant and breastfeeding mothers. Fathers and babies welcome. For information call (541) 766-0055 or visit www.llli.org.

The Daly News. Albany Civic Theater, 111 First Ave. SW, Albany. 8 p.m. $14/general; $11/senior/junior. The Daly News is a story in musical form about love and distance between family members. The source material for Jonathan Gillard Daly’s not-so-unique personal story is his own Grandfather Martin’s World War II era newsletter—The Daly News. Written weekly from 1943 through 1946, it was distributed through the mail to family far and wide, helping them to stay connected with their kin who were scattered over the globe in the service of their country. Anyone who fought World War II or any subsequent conflict from home will be reminded of those days. For information visit http:// albanycivic.org.

Adult Advanced/Beginning Hip-Hop. See 11/7.

Book Making: Start to Finish. See 11/7.

Jazz Funk Dance. See 11/7.

Little Bookworms Preschool Storytime. See 11/7.

Mama Baby Yoga. See 11/7.

Modern Dance I. See 11/7.

Paper Beads. See 11/7.

Prenatal Yoga. See 11/7.

Teen Yoga. See 11/7.

The Sound of Music. See 11/7.

Friday 15

Family Game Night. Lebanon Public Library, 55 Academy St., Lebanon. 7-9 p.m. Free. Celebrate Family Game night at the Lebanon Public Library with Bingo in the community room and board games in the main part of the library, including giant chess and checkers.

Families are welcome to bring their own board games to share. Enjoy snacks along with the games and cool Bingo prizes. For information call (541) 258-4926 or visit www.lebanon.plinkit.org.

Creative Dance. See 11/8.

Family Swim. See 11/8.

Hip Hop Dance. See 11/8.

Oklahoma! See 11/7.

Parents’ Night Out. See 11/8.

Teens Modern Dance. See 11/8.

The Daly News. See 11/14.

The Sound of Music. See 11/7.

Saturday 16

Holiday Open House. Garland Nursery, 5470 NE Hwy 20, Corvallis. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Enjoy spiced cider and coffee to warm your hands, a variety of food samples to try, a chance to win some wonderful door prizes, and winter gardening classes. On display will be many gift-giving ideas including the items sampled. For information call (541) 753-6601.

International Brotherhood of Magicians. Ray’s Food Place, 621 NW Hickory St., Albany. 10 a.m. third Saturdays. All ages. A social club dedicated to advancing the art of magic performance, interest, and fellowship. Call (541) 752-3900 for details or e-mail magictuba@proaxis.com. Also visit www.ring238.org.

Swing 101. Odd Fellows Hall, 223 SW 2nd St, Corvallis. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. $7/class; $25/all-day pass.

Rachael Ries and David D will be journeying to Corvallis to share their dancing secrets. This four-lesson workshop is for everyone who wants to learn how to swing dance in an afternoon. It’s perfect for beginners and fun for all skill levels. For information visit http:// corvallisswing.com/portfolio/swing-101-nov-16.

Trillium Children’s Farm Home’s Christmas Craft Fair. The Farm Home, 4455 NE Hwy 20, Corvallis. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Shop for Christmas presents from our amazing artisans in our newly renovated Old School building. We will be serving a light lunch too. For information call Glenda at (541) 758-5950.

Swing 101 Rachael Ries and David D will be journeying to Corvallis to share their dancing secrets. This four-lesson workshop is for everyone who wants to learn how to swing dance in an afternoon. It’s perfect for beginners and fun for all skill levels.

Where: When: Cost: Info:

Odd Fellows Hall, 223 SW 2nd St, Corvallis.

Saturday, November 16, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. $7/class; $25/all-day pass.

For information visit http://corvallisswing.com/ portfolio/swing-101-nov-16.

Albany Farmers’ Market. See 11/9.

Clemens Community Pool Open Rec. See 11/9.

Corvallis Farmers’ Market. See 11/9.

Oklahoma! See 11/7.

Prenatal Yoga. See 11/7.

The Daly News. See 11/14.

The Sound of Music. See 11/7.

Sunday 17

Marys Peak East Ridge and Meadow Edge Hike.

Conners Camp, Marys Peak Road, Philomath. 9 a.m. $15.There will be a snack break at the summit area before the return trip. Expect muddy trails, brisk temperatures, and maybe some snow. Bring your favorite treats to share! For information and registration visit www.jessbfit.com/fall-outdoor-fitness-2013/fall-outdoor-fitness-series-schedule/.

Hoolyeh International Dance. First Congregational United Church of Christ, 4515 SW West Hills Road, Corvallis. 7-9 p.m. first and third Sundays. $3/admission. The first Sunday of the month will be dedicated to Balkan dances. For information call (971) 237-2000.

Holiday Open House. See 11/16.

Oklahoma! See 11/7.

The Sound of Music. See 11/7.

Monday 18

Holiday Open House. See 11/16.

Southtown Performers Spotlight. See 11/11.

Teens Modern Dance. See 11/8.

Tuesday 19

Dining for Women. Unitarian-Universalist Fellowship Church, 2945 NW Circle Blvd., Corvallis. 6:30 p.m. third Tuesdays. An organization funding programs fostering good health, education, and economic selfsufficiency through potlucks where the money saved on the meal is donated to international programs. Bring a potluck dish to share and a donation (any amount, check or credit card preferred). Visit www.facebook.com/ pages/Dining-for-Women-Corvallis-Chapter/201679226 520781?sk=info.

League of Women Voters. Corvallis Public Library, 645 NW Monroe Ave., Corvallis. 7-9 p.m. Free. “Our Community’s Impact on Children’s Health” presentation by the League of Women Voters. Co-sponsored by the Library. For information call (541) 752-4635 or visit http://bit.ly/1ieD8TC. Successful Women’s Annual Conference. Majestic Theatre, 115 SW 2nd St., Corvallis. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. $50.

Enjoy a keynote speaker, workshops, networking opportunities, vendor displays, and more! For information on speakers & topics, please go to our website, www. oregonswac.com. $5 Movies at Ninth Street Cinema. See 11/12.

Baton Twirling Class. See 11/12.

Beginning Cuban Salsa Dancing. See 11/12.

Celtic Jam. See 11/12.

Contemporary Dance. See 11/12.

Mama Baby Yoga. See 11/7.

Prenatal Yoga. See 11/7.

Rotary Club of Albany Meeting. See 11/12.

Teen Writers Group. See 11/12.

Wednesday 20

Build a Better Marriage. Osborn Aquatic Center Meeting Room, , 1940 NW Highland Dr., Corvallis.

6:45-8:45 p.m. Suggested donation: $5/adult/evening.

6:45-8:45 p.m. 1st, 3rd, and 5th Wednesdays. Join this fun, relaxed, ongoing marriage education and support group. Different topic each night. Children swim for free while parents invest in their marriages! For more information contact Dave Jackson at (541) 760-9637 or familyconnectionsnight@gmail.com.

LEGO Club. Lebanon Public Library. 55 Academy St., Lebanon. 1:30-2:30 p.m. Free. Kids work independently to create LEGO masterpieces with the LEGOs provided.

Call (541) 258-4926 or visit www.lebanon.plinkit.org.

Movie at Chintimini. 2-4 p.m. Chintimini Senior Center, 2601 NW Tyler Ave., Corvallis. Free/Gold Pass, $5/day pass. 18 and over. Join us to watch a movie in the Lounge. Each month the theme and movie will change. Popcorn, drinks, and other treats available for purchase during the show. Call (541) 766-6959 for information and movie titles.

November Repair Fair. OSUsed Store, 644 SW 13th St., Corvallis. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Bring your broken items and questions; volunteers will help you learn how to repair your belongings for free! Specific repair skills and DIY demonstrations offered this time at http://tiny. cc/repair-fair. For information call (541) 737-5398 or e-mail andrea.norris@oregonstate.edu.

R.E.A.D. Philomath Community Library, 1050

Applegate St., Philomath. 2:30-4:00 p.m. Free.

Experience reading time with a four-legged friend.

R.E.A.D. stands for Reading Education Assistance Dogs. The program’s mission is to improve the literacy skills of children through the assistance of registered therapy teams as literacy mentors. For information call (541) 929-3016 or visit www.cbcpl.net or www.welcomewagger.org/read.html.

All Boys Hip Hop. See 11/13.

Baby and Me Storytime. See 11/13.

Corvallis Farmers’ Market. See 11/9.

Creative Movement. See 11/13.

Fall Fitness Series. See 11/13.

Family Swim. See 11/8.

Introduction to Modern. See 11/13.

OSUsed Store Sale. See 11/13.

Pre-Natal Yoga. See 11/13.

Rise and Shine Storytime. See 11/13.

Rotary Club of Corvallis Mornings. See 11/13.

The Sound of Music. See 11/7.

Thursday 21

Anime Club. Main Library, 2450 14th Ave., SE, Albany.

4:30-5:30 p.m. Free. Third Thursday. Fans of Japanese animation meet monthly to play Yu-Gi-Oh or other games, share books, practice drawing in the Japanese style, and meet others with similar interests. Participants are encouraged to come in costume and to bring snack foods and drinks to share. For ages 11 to adult. For information about this program, call Young Adult Services Librarian Doris Hicks at (541) 791-0015 or email doris.hicks@cityofalbany.net.

Mommy Connections Postpartum Support Class.

Samaritan Medical & Diagnostic Center, 400 NW Hickory St., Albany, 1st Floor Conference Room. First and third Thursday. No need to register. 6:30 p.m. Free.

New mothers, supportive partners (spouse, mother, sister, friend), and new baby are welcome and encouraged to attend. Call (541) 812-4301 for information or visit www.samhealth.org/ and click on “Take a Class” on the right side of the screen.

The Nutcracker. LaSells Stewart Center, Austin Auditorium, 875 SW 26th St., Corvallis. 7:30-10 p.m. $30/high school students and younger, $33/adult. Enjoy Clara’s journey with spirited party children, mischievous mice, elegant skaters, and dancers from around the globe in the fantasy world of the Land of The Sugar Plum Fairy. It’s a performance that always says Happy Holidays. Performed by Eugene Ballet. For information visit http://oregonstate.edu/lasells/events.

Third Thursday. Downtown Albany. 4-8 p.m. Free.

Third Thursdays is a monthly stay-open-late shopping event. Eat at one of Downtown’s 22 locally owned restaurants and stay for Third Thursday happenings.

Contact the Albany Downtown Association at (541) 928-2469 or see www.albanydowntown.com for information.

Adult Advanced/Beginning Hip-Hop. See 11/7.

Book Making: Start to Finish. See 11/7.

Little Bookworms Preschool Storytime. See 11/7.

Mama Baby Yoga. See 11/7.

Modern Dance I. See 11/7.

Prenatal Yoga.See 11/7.

Teen Yoga. See 11/7.

The Sound of Music. See 11/7.

Friday 22

Community Outreach “Festival of Trees.” Corvallis Country Club, 1850 SW Whiteside Dr., Corvallis. 6-9 p.m. $50. Beautifully decorated trees sponsored by local businesses to be auctioned to the highest bidder. Gala and auction include: sumptuous appetizer buffet all evening long, gourmet served dinner, Hosted Oregon premier wines and micro brews, Bursts Truffles and coffee for dessert, fantastic silent auction items, wreaths and table top trees available, holiday photos by Pink Caterpillar photography. For information call (541) 7583000 or visit www.communityoutreachinc.org.

Friday Family Movie Night. Albany Community Pool.

2150 36th Ave. SE, Albany. 7-9 p.m. $3.50 adult, $3/ child, $10/family of 6 ($2 each additional). Watch a movie in the pool. Bring your own float. Under 16 must have parent with them; under 6 must have parent in pool with them. For information visit www.cityofalbany. net/departments/parks-and-recreation/aquatics/albanycommunity-pool or call (541) 967-4521.

Family Swim. See 11/8.

Hip Hop Dance. See 11/8.

Oklahoma! See 11/7.

Parents’ Night Out. See 11/8.

Teens Modern Dance. See 11/8.

Calendar

continued on page 14

November 2013, Valley Parent

13

Library Story Times Albany Public Library, Main

Mon: 7 pm with puppet show Wed: 10:30 am with puppet show Thurs: 10:30 am with puppet show

Albany Public Library, Downtown Tues:

10:30 am with puppet show

Philomath Public Library Wed:

Philomath Story Time, 10 am, 3-5 years old

Corvallis Public Library

Mon: Tues:

Wed:

Thurs:

1st Sat:

Bedtime Story Time, 7 pm, all ages Toddler Story Time, 10 am, 18-36 months old Infant Story Time, 10 am, Birth-18 months old Preschool Story Time, 10 am, 3-5 years old 11 am, 0-36 months old with dads

Calendar

continued from page 13

The Sound of Music. See 11/7.

Saturday 23

Albany Farmers’ Market. See 11/9.

Clemens Community Pool Open Rec. See 11/9.

Corvallis Farmers’ Market. See 11/9.

Oklahoma! See 11/7.

Prenatal Yoga. See 11/7.

The Sound of Music. See 11/7.

Sunday 24

Vietnam Veterans of America Breakfast.

American Legion, 480 Main St., Lebanon, 8-11 a.m. $5. All you can eat breakfast includes Belgian waffles, strawberries, bacon, sausage, eggs to order, biscuits and gravy, hash browns, orange or tomato juice, and coffee. For information call (541) 451-1351.

Oklahoma! See 11/7.

The Sound of Music. See 11/7.

Monday 25

Parenting with Compassionate Communication Class Series. 2255 NW 25th St., Corvallis. 6-8:30 p.m. second and fourth Monday through November 25. $120/person, $200/two co-parents. Worldrenowned transformational model, also called Nonviolent Communication. For info visit www. tinataylor.co or call (541) 753-2255.

Schools Out Swim. Albany Community Pool. 2150 36th Ave. SE, Albany. 1-3 p.m. $3/Youth (3 and under free), $3.50/Adult, $10Family. Visit http:// www.cityofalbany.net/departments/parks-and-recreation/classes or call (541) 967-4521 for information.

Southtown Performers Spotlight. See 11/11.

Tuesday 26

All About Breastfeeding. Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, 3600 NW Samaritan Drive, Corvallis. Fourth Tuesday. 7-9 p.m. Free.

Learn how breastfeeding can reduce a baby’s chances of getting diarrhea and respiratory and ear infections. It also gives baby an increased immunity against other diseases. Call (541) 768-5244 for information.

Bow Wow Bingo. Elks Lodge, 1400 NW 9th St., Corvallis. 6 p.m. $3-$20. The first game starts at 7pm and there will be 6 games played throughout the evening. All proceeds from Bow Wow Bingo games after payouts benefit the animals and programs of Heartland Humane Society. For information, contact Heartland Humane at donate@heartlandhumane.org or call (541) 757-9000, ext. 109. $5 Movies at Ninth Street Cinema. See 11/12.

Baton Twirling Class. See 11/12.

Beginning Cuban Salsa Dancing. See 11/12.

Celtic Jam. See 11/12.

Mama Baby Yoga. See 11/7.

Prenatal Yoga. See 11/7.

Rotary Club of Albany Meeting. See 11/12.

Schools Out Swim. See 11/25.

Teen Writers Group. See 11/12.

14 Valley Parent, November 2013

Wednesday 27

Chapters Book Club. Corvallis Public Library Youth Activity Room, 645 NW Monroe Ave., Corvallis. 3:304:30 p.m every fourth Wednesday. Free. For kids in grades 1-4 who are reading beginning chapter books independently. We will be reading selections from the books nominated for the Beverly Cleary Award. For current month’s title, contact the Youth Desk at (541) 766-6794 or visit www.thebestlibrary.net/library-eventskidslinks-119.

Baby and Me Storytime. See 11/13.

Corvallis Farmers’ Market. See 11/9.

Creative Movement. See 11/13.

Fall Fitness Series. See 11/13.

Family Swim. See 11/8.

OSUsed Store Sale. See 11/13.

PEACE Parent Support Group. See 11/13.

Pre-Natal Yoga. See 11/13.

Rise and Shine Storytime. See 11/13.

Rotary Club of Corvallis Mornings. See 11/13.

Thursday 28

Oregon Mid-Valley Road Race. North Albany Village Plaza, North Albany Road & Hickory Street NW, Albany. 8-10 a.m. Pre-registration 6:45 a.m. The 6th Annual Oregon Mid-Valley Road Race is set to kick off on Thanksgiving morning 2013! Join the fun, and while you run or walk enjoy the beautiful North Albany event courses. There are three events to choose from: the 5.2 Mile Scenic Challenge Run, the 3.75 mile ‘To Hill and Back” Run, and a 2.5 mile walk. Cash and prizes are awarded. Visit the Oregon Mid Valley Road Race website for current fees and to register online at www. omroadrace.org.

Turkey Trot Morning Runs. Osborn Aquatic Center, 1940 NW Highland Dr., Corvallis. 8 a.m./10k, 8:15 a.m./5k, 10 a.m./1k for “little gobblers.” $40. These runs are sure to build your appetite for an afternoon Thanksgiving feast. Family discounts available. Call (541) 766-SWIM (7946) for details.

Adult Advanced/Beginning Hip-Hop. See 11/7.

Mama Baby Yoga. See 11/7.

Prenatal Yoga. See 11/7.

Teen Yoga. See 11/7.

Friday 29

Family Swim. See 11/8.

Parents’ Night Out. See 11/8.

Saturday 30

29th Annual Corvallis Community Christmas Parade. Downtown Corvallis on Fourth St., from Washington to Jackson. 7 p.m. The parade is a day later than usual in order to avoid a conflict with the Civil War football game that is set for Friday, November 29 at 4 p.m. The parade will include floats, walking groups, animals, kinetic sculptures, music, and other fun and exciting entries. The Grand Marshalls will be Mae Leslie, along with her family, The Singing Leslies, who will lead this year’s Parade theme: “Hawaiian ALOHA Christmas.” The Singing Leslies will also lead the tree lighting ceremony on the Courthouse lawn that follows the parade. For more information, contact the Downtown Corvallis Association at 541-754-6624 Oregon Coast Aquarium. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $18.95/ adults; $16.95/YA/seniors; $11.95/3-12; Free/2 and under. Immerse yourself in the mysteries of the ocean.

View the largest population of sea otters in the state, visit the Giant Pacific Octopus habitat, walk underwater through three ecosystems of the Pacific Ocean, or climb aboard a mini submarine. For information about the exhibits visit http://aquarium.org.

Clemens Community Pool Open Rec. See 11/9.

Prenatal Yoga. See 11/7.

Sunday, December 1

Downtown Twice Around Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting. Historic Downtown Albany. 5-8 p.m.

Free. Fun for the whole family! Parade starts at River parking lot (Water Ave) and ends at the Two Rivers Market for the tree lighting. For information call (541) 928-2469 or visit www.albanydowntown.com.

What to Do in the Garden in December. Garland Nursery, 5470 U.S. 20, Corvallis. Noon. Free. Garden experts will share best techniques and practices in prepping your gardens for a successful spring and will review which bulbs make the best garden fillers and show you the best way to arrange them in planters for beautiful spring blooms. Observe a live holiday swag demo using natural holiday trimmings. For information call (541) 753-6601or visit www.garlandnursery.com/ events.html.

Hoolyeh International Dance. See 11/17.

Monday, December 2

Teen Animanga Book Club. Corvallis Public Library, 645 NW Monroe Ave., Corvallis. 4:30-5:45 p.m. Free.

Ages 12-18. Preview new manga, watch anime, and eat snacks and win prizes in a trivia contest. For information call (541) 766-6926. visit www.thebestlibrary.org/ teen-events-teenmenu-419.

Baby Storytime. See 11/18.

Southtown Performers Spotlight. See 11/11.

Teens Modern Dance. See 11/8.

29th Annual Corvallis Community Christmas Parade

Tuesday, December 3

Brown Bag Talk: Earl Newman. The Arts Center, 700 SW Madison Ave., Corvallis. Noon-1 p.m. Free. Earl Newman moved to Summit, Oregon in 1972 and works as a self-employed artist in serigraphy (silk-screening), saying,” I’ve been able to reproduce my designs in volume, usually 100 at a time. It is like having 100 canvases on which to experiment, using different colors of papers and inks, varying the color blends as I go along.

Thus, no two prints are alike.” For information visit http://visitcorvallis.com or call (541) 754-1551.

Winter Outdoor Safety. First Alternative Co-Op (South Store), 1107 SE 3rd St., Corvallis. 6:30 p.m.

Free. Learn the skills you need to stay safe while enjoying winter sports like snowshoeing, skiing, and hiking.

Hear about navigation with maps, trail clues, and using common sense. Understand the signs and symptoms of hypothermia as well as how to prevent it from happening. Some mock scenarios and practice applying the new skills will take place at the end of the class. Food and beverages provided. For information/registration visit www.jessbfit.com/fall-outdoor-fitness-2013/foodwater-winter-outdoor-recreation/ or call (503) 446-0803. $5 Movies at Ninth Street Cinema. See 11/12.

Baton Twirling Class. See 11/12.

Beginning Cuban Salsa Dancing. See 11/12.

Celtic Jam. See 11/12.

Contemporary Dance. See 11/12.

Mama Baby Yoga. See 11/7.

Prenatal Yoga. See 11/7.

Rotary Club of Albany Meeting. See 11/12.

Teen Writers Group. See 11/12.

Wednesday, December 4

La Leche League of Corvallis. Multicultural Literacy Center, 128 SW 9th St., Corvallis. 10 a.m. First Wednesdays. Free. Breastfeeding information and support for expectant and breastfeeding mother. Babies and children welcome. Call (541) 766-0055 or visit LLL Willamette Valley on Facebook or http://lalecheleagueoregon.webs.com/localcorvallis.

All Boys Hip Hop. See 11/13.

Baby and Me Storytime. See 11/13.

Build A Better Marriage. See 11/20.

Creative Movement. See 11/13.

Fall Fitness Series. See 11/13.

Family Swim. See 11/8.

Introduction to Modern. See 11/13.

OSUsed Store Sale. See 11/13.

Pre-Natal Yoga. See 11/13.

Rise and Shine Storytime. See 11/13.

Rotary Club of Corvallis Mornings. See 11/13.

Thursday, December 5

Celtic Christmas Concert. LaSells Stewart Center, 875 SW 26th Street Oregon State University, Corvallis. 6 p.m. Free. Friends of the Family Ministries will present their 10th annual free Christmas concert which will feature music from the newly released CD, Winterfold, with Jeff Johnson (vocals and keyboard), Brian Dunning (flutes and whistles), and Wendy Goodwin (violin). This community event, a respite from the busyness of the season, is family friendly and open to the public. A donation opportunity will be provided for support of Friends of the Family Ministries’ ongoing programs to build healthy relationships and healthy homes.

For information visit www.fofm.org.

Holiday Festival of Trees. Historic Downtown Brownsville. 4-7-p.m. Free. Kick off the holiday season in Brownsville at the annual Best Bites of Brownsville food tour. Brownsville eateries will provide samplings of special holiday-themed food and beverages at this tasty event planned for Friday, Dec. 6. Taste your way through town while admiring decorated trees at the Holiday Festival of Trees planned for the same weekend.

Adult Advanced/Beginner Hip-Hop. See 11/7.

Little Bookworms Preschool Storytime. See 11/7.

Modern Dance I. See 11/7.

Prenatal Yoga. See 11/7.

Teen Yoga. See 11/7.

The parade is a day later than usual in order to avoid a conflict with the Civil War football game that is set for Friday, November 29 at 4 p.m. The parade will include floats, walking groups, animals, kinetic sculptures, music, and other fun and exciting entries.

The Grand Marshalls will be Mae Leslie, along with her family, The Singing Leslies, who will lead this year’s Parade theme: “Hawaiian ALOHA Christmas.” The Singing Leslies will also lead the tree lighting ceremony on the Courthouse lawn that follows the parade.

Where: Downtown Corvallis on Fourth St., from Washington to Jackson When: Saturday, November 30; 7 p.m.

Cost: Free Info: Contact the Downtown Corvallis Association at 541-754-6624

Friday, December 6

Christmas Storybook Land. Linn County Fair & Expo Center, Cascade Livestock Building, 3700 Knox Butte Rd., Albany. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.- 8:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday through December 20. Free. Simulated walk through the woods with over 85 scenes of Mother Goose rhyme characters, children’s fairy tale characters, and family movie scenes including some animated characters. Two model train systems, a lit Victorian Village, a Main Street of hand-carved buildings, and Bear Country with hundreds of stuffed bears. Includes Santa’s North Pole house with Santa and Mrs. Claus distributing candy canes. Dress warmly and bring a camera. Visit www. christmasstorybookland.org/.

It’s A Wonderful Life. Albany Civic Theater, 111 First Ave. SW, Albany. 7:30 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 2:30 p.m. Sundays. $12/general, $9/senior/junior.This faithful, fast-moving stage adaptation of the classic film is not only a joyful Christmas tale­—it’s the beautiful love story of George and Mary Bailey, a vivid portrait of the Greatest Generation, a descent into the darkest hour of a man trapped by circumstance, and a powerful meditation on what makes a meaningful life. For information visit http://albanycivic.org.

Winter’s Eve Corvallis. Madison Ave. between 2nd and 3rd Sts., Corvallis. 5-10 p.m. Corvallis Assistance League presents a festive holiday celebration in conjunction with Corvallis merchants, including exclusive shopping discounts, fine food sampling, and live music. Proceeds from the evening help sustain our five philanthropic programs, including Operation School Bell®, SAT Review, CARES, Dental Care, and HugA-Bear. Go to www.alcorvallis.org for more info.

Family Swim. See 11/8.

Hip Hop Dance. See 11/8.

Holiday Festival of Trees. See 12/5.

Parents’ Night Out. See 11/8.

Teens Modern Dance. See 11/8.

FREE: Your Event in Our Calendar

Deadline 11/29/13 www.valleyparentmagazine.com

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