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May 2013
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VOL 1 Issue 7 / MetroEastParent.com
N.P.O. OF THE MONTH
BIRTHDAY BASH!
RelAy For Life
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SCHOOL OF THE MONTH
St. John Neumann Catholic & Father McGivney Catholic High School
Get A Great Education With Your Degree
McKendree University is committed to providing students with a high quality, affordable private undergraduate and graduate education. Choose your field of study from 46 undergraduate disciplines, four graduate schools and a doctoral program in education. Distinguished by great teaching, a vibrant community, successful academic outcomes, and a 97% job placement rate after graduation, McKendree is ranked among the top “Best Regional Universities” by U.S. News & World Report and is the only institution in Illinois to be named to “America’s 100 Best College Buys.” Learn More About McKendree University Use a QR-scanner on your smartphone to scan this code and learn more about McKendree University
The campus is located in quaint and historic Lebanon, Illinois
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InsideM a y Vol. 1 Number 7
Features
East Parent High School Showcase: 11 Metro Father McGivney Catholic High School
There’s a new kid on the block, and he mixing old school values with today’s modern technology!
East Parent N.P.O. Showcase: 13 Metro Relay For Life
Celebrating a 100 years of helping those in need!
17
Metro East Parent School Showcase: St John Neumann Catholic
We have a double dose of highlighting the Metro East’s finest schools!
19 Art on the Square
Artists from all across the Metro East Area converge on Belleville’s Square!
23 Birthday Bash!
Everything and Anything you need to know to put on the right party for your child!
30 National Foster Care Month
Departments
8 Letter from the Publisher 9 Voice of Generation “I”
Extra, Extra... 10 Tooth Talk with Dr. Angie 15 Stand By Me: David Robinson’s monthly contribution. 16 Books We Love Glen Carbon Centennial Library 19 State of the Arts: Sue Hezel 21 Garrett Peek: Instruments that won’t break your budget! 22 Organization is key to Kid’s Closet 29 ask the trainer: William Miller 30 Potty Talk with Dr. Steph! 32 How to Keep Education Going in the Summer - Dr. Almeda Lahr-Well 33 National Police Week - Jason Sibert talks shop to area police chiefs.
Christian Social Services of Illinois helps those children who need the most help in the area!
Events Calendar
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Parent metro east
Dr. Angela Tenholder, DMD, FAACP We would like to invite you to our family dental office and give you a few more reasons to choose us to care for your dental needs. • We treat all patients... from 1 to 100! • We provide orthodontic services! • We offer custom mouthguards and Sports Dentistry! • We offer evening and weekend hours! • Convenient location with second location coming soon to Columbia!
50% OFF VELscope Oral Cancer Screening
Dr. Angie has over 18 years of clinical experience along with additional training in orthodontic and craniofacial development, sleep disordered breathing, neurologic implications of altered facial growth as well as the dental related treatment of headaches and pain. Her PASSION is to ensure that the children/ adults that she treats have the best possible opportunity to achieve proper dental and facial development to prevent future complications and to ensure beautiful healthy smiles for life.
See “ASK DR. ANGIE” in this publication
Call Now
618/476-XRAY
www.smileologydental.com
VOLUME I, NUMBER VII May 2013 PUBLISHER
ROBERT LUDWIG PUBLISHER@MetroEastParent.com
MANAGING EDITOR Cherie Washow
CREATIVE DIRECTOR/ GRAPHIC DESIGN Robert Ludwig
ADVERTISING TEAM LEADS
Linda Jakel, Julie Fiorelli ADVERTISING@MetroEastParent.com 618-407-5281
ADVERTISING STAFF Ronny Rust, Sue Hezel
INTERNS
Alexander Jones, Quinn Lawrence
METRO EAST PARENT 618-407-5281 MetroEastParent.com 2913 Old Caseyville Rd Swansea, IL 62226
TO SUBMIT EVENTS TO OUR CALENDAR CALENDAR@MetroEastParent.com
METRO EAST PARENT MAGAZINE IS A PUBLICATION OF THE CREED MEDIA GROUP. NO PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE REPRODUCED IN ANY FORM WITHOUT WRITTEN CONSENT FROM THE PUBLISHER. THE DISTRIBUTION OF THIS MATERIAL DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN ENDORSEMENT OR AN INDICATION OF SUPPORT BY ANY SCHOOL DISTRICT. DISTRIBUTION OF THIS MAGAZINE DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN ENDORSEMENT OF PRODUCTS OR SERVICES.
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Keyda’s Korner
Mommies! by Keyda W.
Since it is almost Mother’s Day I thought, with a little push from mom, that I should write about my mom. My mom is awesome! I know - everybody says that. But really - my mom is. She takes care of me and my big brother and sister with no help from anyone. She
makes me giggle, except when she screams... which is not that often. REALLY scary when she does it, though. For Mother’s Day she is going to a concert with my big brother and sister; I would be making her breakfast in bed if she was staying home. And doing her
nails...after a hand massage. (I give really good ones) But the best thing about my mom is that she loves me no matter what I do. I wish everyone had a mom like mine...so if you have a mom, even if she is not as awesome as mine, be good to her on Mother’s Day.
Call 618-407-5281 Today to ADVERTISE in... metro east
Parent Growth is Life
2931 Old Caseyville Rd. Swansea, IL 62226 advertising@metroeastparent.com
Parent e n i l metroeastparent.com On metro east
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IT’S TIME TO REGISTER! 9th Annual ALL-SPORTS CAMP at Monmouth College July 21-26, 2013
l For girls and boys, ages 7-13 l Campers choose from 18 sports and receive focused attention in 3 sports during the week l Small camper-to-counselor ratios l Awards given to participants based on Christian values and sportsmanship l Campers stay in air-conditioned college dorms l Instruction takes place in outstanding athletic facilities l Dedicated staff works with the campers
Applications are available online at:
www.monmouthallsportscamp.com Printable copies are available online or may be obtained by calling 309.457.2345 or emailing sportscamp@monmouthcollege.edu
LOYA LTY Go leave d has said , you, I will “I will nev n e - Heb ever dese r rews rt you 13.5 .”
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letter from the publisher...
Robert Ludwig As we celebrate Mother’s Day I wish to tell you about a remarkable woman. I do not give her enough credit, actually we fight like cats and dogs most of the time. But looking back I can attribute her for the successes in my life, even though I have most likely blamed her for most of my failures, as most children do. My mother had to raise six children on her own during a time when society looked down upon single mothers, somehow blaming them for their marital woes instead of placing the blame upon the fathers for walking out on their families and not looking back. This was the case with my family during the late sixties and early seventies. There was no such thing as “deadbeat dads” in those days, and the government did not actively seek child support from them. So my mother not only raised six kids on her own, but did so without any financial or any other type of support from our father or his family. Instead, she worked three jobs, too proud to be on the public dole, and we as children worked and contributed where we could. Whether it was babysitting, mowing lawns, or shoveling snow, we did what we could to contribute, yet it sometimes still was not nearly enough. But we survived. She taught us that with hard work, anything could be achieved. Nothing in life is handed to you, that you must fight for each and every step forward, knowing there are always obstacles in your way to try and push you back two steps. But it is through this hard work that you learn to appreciate the things you have, both material and priceless. But the most important lesson in my life that I learned from my mother, and the one thing that I am most proud of, is how to be a good parent to my son. Something that my father never afforded me as a child he walked out of our lives when I was just a few months old. I am the father today because of my mother. Though her tutelage and guidance I have raised an incredible son as a single father. We argue often about some of the ways that he is raised, but never argue about the outcome. I know he is spoiled beyond belief, as she likes to point out to me. Or that he would not know what a day’s work looks like, as my mother laughs as he attempts to mop the floor in her restaurant. But there is no denying that together, as a family, we have produced a remarkable child that is not only gifted in academics and sports, but is kind and loving and is destined to be much more than anyone in past generations have accomplished. For that is the one thing that my mother has drummed into us since birth. That we as a parent must work hard so that our children have a better life than our own. My mother showed that by working the three jobs to make sure that each of us graduated high school and went onto college. The very thing she could not accomplish on her own until she raised all of us and got us off into the world. To all the mothers out there like my own that has had to not only be a mother but a father as well, Happy Mother’s Day! And to my own mother, Thank You!
Check us out online at MetroEastParent.com
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Voice of Generation “I” by Xavier Ludwig
“ For everyone to whom much is given, of him much be required.”
I rarely get to speak to my mother, and see her even less. She lives three states away so our visits are limited to the occasional school vacations and special occasions. It is no one’s fault, it is just the way of our lives. We have grown to accept that fact. But when we do get to see each other it is like we have never parted. We laugh, cry, and yes like most teenage sons with their parents, we argue. But in the end, when our little time is over, we hug and kiss and cry all over again. But this column is not about my mother, not at least my mother in the truest sense of the word. This is about my other mother. Let me explain. There are some people in our lives that make a sudden impact. They crash down like a meteor and your whole world has changed. This is what happened a few years ago when I met my best friend, Mitch. We met at the tryouts of an AAU travelling basketball team by shooting at the same goal before the tryouts began, and from that day on we have been inseparable, even though we live almost an hour and a half away from each other. Through him I have learned that goals and dreams can change overnight, and that you can achieve those dreams even when the world finds them impossible for you. Page 9
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Mitch is a product of divorced parents as well, but much different than my own situation. Both parents and their spouses have a very active role in his life, as well as mine now. His mother, Julie, has become my second mother and guides, advises, and even scolds me when I need it. She has never tried to take the place of my mother, no one could ever do that, and she knows this. But she treats me as if I am her own, no different (better or worse) than she does Mitch or her daughter, Natalie. To her and her family I am just one of the family, and no one dare question the sudden appearance of a child that looks nothing like them. Well almost nothing like them, but that is a column all of its own. The greatest part of it all is the acceptance of Mitch and Natalie in including me into their family. There is no jealousy, or resentment when it comes to the attention their parents give me. It is just a given that whatever they do as a family I am automatically accepted. I love them like a brother and sister for that, and to me they are the brother and sister that I never had. A lot of my friends also have absent parents. For those friends that do not have an active father in their lives, my own father has tried to step in and help them. There have been many nights that my father has helped my friends with homework, on the correct way of shooting a free-throw after the lights have gone out at the rec center, or just a friendly shoulder to cry on or ask advice from. Once when I was angry at him for paying attention more to a friend than me and demanded why he did so, his simple reply was, “Who else?”
~ Luke 12:48
I guess the point of this story is this. We are taught in our faith that it takes a village to raise a child. Jesus told us, “For everyone to whom much is given, of him shall much be required.” I am lucky enough to have two loving parents, although one lives far away. And I am also lucky enough to have another family who calls me their own. And to all, I am truly grateful. For it is their guidance and love that will hopefully mold me into becoming one of tomorrow’s leaders. But I also know, just like many of my friends, that there are some that are not so lucky, and I am thankful that there are people like my father and Julie who will gladly step up to the plate to become a surrogate if they are needed. For that is the Christian way, and also the right way. For those kids out there that may need that shoulder, there are many adults out there, whether they are teachers, counselors, or a friend’s parent, who are willing to help and not ask anything in return. For those who know of a boy or girl that is lost and needs your guidance, please reach out. Remember these two words, “Who else?” For my own mother and Julie, Happy Mother’s Day! I love you both! Xavier is 13 year old from Southern Illinois whose interests range from playing basketball, running, modeling, and writing. He may be reached for comments and questions at :
xavier@metroeastparent.com
QT&o oA th Talk
AskDrAngie@yahoo.com
with Dr. Angie Poor Dental Health can lead to serious problems with the rest of your body...
My grandfather lost his battle with pancreatic cancer. Throughout dental school I became increasingly aware of the dental health of my family members. I was aware that I had a responsibility to clean their teeth, fix their cavities, etc. The normal everyday functions of being a dentist did not overwhelm me because I felt that my impact on their health was limited to the mouth - for the most part. As time went on, the research became clear concerning the impact of dental health on overall health. The first connection made between dental health and systemic health was the evidence that the blood clots indicated in heart attacks and strokes contained bacteria from the mouth. In addition, the correlation between premature births, low birth weight babies, and expectant mothers with gum disease was documented. Periodontal (gum) disease is a chronic inflammatory condition whose by-products set up a favorable environment for many diseases that people may not be aware of. These conditions include the previously mentioned, diabetes, and many others. Only time will tell the true importance of maintaining good dental health in the scope of overall health. The strong indication is that the body is connected in more ways than modern medicine and dentistry can currently understand. However, many people feel that maintaining their dental health is optional, especially if they do not have dental insurance. This is far from the truth. My grandfather had gum disease. He was a farmer, father, husband, and an exceptionally wonderful person. His dental health was viewed like most men of his generation. Many believed in the saying “If it isn’t broke, don’t fix it”. I explained to him the importance of dental health and he complied with my treatment recommendations because I was his persistent granddaughter, not because he had a newfound enlightenment in the importance of the dental-whole body connection. His gum disease didn’t cause him pain, as it is silent, much like cancer until its later stages. A few years after his diagnosis with gum disease,
medical research provided us with the official connection between periodontal disease and pancreatic cancer. With both conditions, once you have it, you always “have it”. Proper treatment can force them into remission. The conditions can be maintained and even the progression and impact of the disease stopped. With gum disease, that means excellent brushing and flossing along with maintaining a very active relationship with your dental team, often requiring more frequent cleanings and gum treatments. My grandfather is one of my many reasons for being a militant warrior not only in the battle against all dental disease, but also in the effects that result from dental disease. I do not know that my grandfather’s periodontal disease played a role in his death. I do know that it is a possibility. The last thing that my grandpa asked me to do for him before he passed was to clean his teeth. It was one of the most difficult things that I’ve ever had to do. I say this not to scare those who read this article, but to educate those in a position to empower themselves or others to fight this disease. For me and my dental team, we take this challenge and view it as an honor to help our patients lead a healthier, longer, better life. Life is good but life is short. Make the best of it and take advantage of the opportunities presented to you. Brush. Floss. See your dentist. Educate your friends and family and perhaps you can help save a life or make one better. And tell your grandpa that you love him.
For more information on customized mouthguards call 618/476-XRAY
Dr. Angela Tenholder, DMD,FAACP smileologydental.com
Dr. Angie is a 1994 graduate of Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine. Her office is in Millstadt, Illinois and she is opening an office in Columbia, Illinois early 2013. You can find more information about her and her practice at www.smileologydental.com. MetroEastParent.com
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Metro East Parent HIGH SCHOOL Showcase:
“The only book we carry at Father McGivney Catholic High School is our Bible”
~Mike Scholz, Principal
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by Robert Ludwig publisher@metroeastparent.com
A
t the beginning of the 2012-2013 school year, nineteen young men and women embarked on a journey as the inaugural class of Metro East’s newest high school, Father McGivney Catholic in Maryville. To these nineteen about to graduate the 9th grade, they are soon learning that they have pioneered a new way of education, a mixture of nostalgic parochial curriculum encompassed with future technology that will surely produce some of tomorrow’s leaders. “We try and teach a faith based education while keeping up with the demands of the future,” stated Mike Scholz, Principal of Father McGivney. “The students are handed a laptop the first day of school and all reading and testing with be done on them. The only book we carry at Father McGivney Catholic High School is our Bible.” The inaugural class of Father McGivney Catholic is made up of twelve girls and seven boys from eight feeder schools. Of the nineteen, fourteen made honors, almost 75%. “Our curriculum is challenging,” said Scholz. “We have them meet with colleges and universities the first day of school, and from then on we help the students develop portfolios to achieve their higher education goals. The students will have Advanced Placement classes, Honors courses, and dual credit classes with local universities and colleges. When they leave Father McGivney Catholic they are prepared not only for the next step in education, but also for
the world as good solid Christian citizens.” When the students enter Father McGivney they are placed in one of four Houses: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Much like what is seen in the Harry Potter movies, these Houses will remain throughout their high school career. This gives the older students chances to mentor and help younger students that are placed in their House in future years. Like their namesake, Father Michael J. McGivney, founder of the Knights of Columbus, the students will learn that education does not end in the classroom. Each student will do various service hours before graduation. Whether it is helping clean up a neighborhood, tutoring young children, or helping at a nursing home, the students will live up to their creed:
Servire Culturae Vitae, Serving the Culture of Life. “Each student will learn that we are here to service the community first,” stated Scholz. “This will help them grow as leaders.” But at Father McGivney it is not all work and no play. The first year school offers athletics, clubs, and opportunities for students to excel outside the classroom including drama and choir. There are the annual retreats to Springfield and Washington, D.C. for the March for Life, and the many opportunities to help out in the community. “We are a high school, but we are even more than that,” concluded Scholz. “We are a family. That became clear to us this year when one of our young ladies became hospitalized. We came together as a family, as a community, and supported her with prayer and any other needs she may have needed. The young women and men were incredible, and it bonded them together even more.” Currently, Father McGivney Catholic is sharing quarters with St. John Nuemann Catholic Grade School, but is breaking ground on their new facility housed on eighty acres in Glen Carbon. Construction should be completed in time for the 2016 graduates to be able to have commencement there. If you wish to contact Father McGivney, you may do so at the following address and phone number: Father McGivney Catholic High School, 142 Wilma Drive Maryville, IL 62062, 618-855-9010. MetroEastParent.com
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Metro East Parent N.P.O. SHOWCASE: The American Cancer Society has a mission! A mission to eliminate cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy and service. The Metro East American Cancer Society office lives this mission every day. They are here to serve the Metro East Region, including Jersey, Madison, Bond, St.Clair, Clinton and Monroe counties.
Maryville office at 618-288-2320 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, to schedule a ride. Note: Patients should call at least 3 days in advance of the date a ride is needed to allow ample time to schedule a volunteer driver. In addition to our Road To Recovery program, patients will learn about the American Cancer Society’s Look Good…Feel Better® program. Cancer
Located at #5 Schiber Court in Maryville, the Metro East ACS Office houses a wig boutique for cancer patients. Patients can call the office Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., to make an appointment. Patient Services Representative, Deborah Leonardis, will work with patients to find a wig that works for them. Wigs are provided by the ACS and are free of charge to cancer patients. In addition, patients will learn about the programs and services that the American Cancer Society provides, such as the Road To Recovery program. Every day, cancer patients need rides to treatment. Some may not be able to drive themselves and family and friends are not always available to take patients to their treatment. This is when the American Cancer Society’s Road To Recovery program can help. Our Road To Recovery program provides rides to patients who have no way to get to their cancer treatment. Volunteer drivers donate their time and the use of their cars to get the patient to and from the treatments they need. The program is completely free. Patients may call the Page 13
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treatment. In these sessions, trained Look Good…Feel Better® volunteer beauty professionals teach women how to cope with skin changes and hair loss using cosmetic and skin care products donated by the cosmetic industry. The free cosmetic kits provided at these group session are available in light, medium, dark and extra dark shades to enhance all complexion types. Women also learn ways to cope with hair loss with the use of wigs, scarves and other accessories. Look Good…Feel Better® sessions are available in several communities throughout the Metro East, including Alton, Maryville, Swansea, Waterloo, Breese and Highland. To find out more about a Look Good…Feel Better® session in your area, call the Maryville ACS office. Patients may also contact the Maryville ACS office for help in finding assistance with lodging, figuring out medical bills and insurance questions, general cancer information and access to support groups. Should patients need assistance in the evenings or on the weekends, they can access the call center anytime at 800-227-2345, and at its Web site, www.IllinoisCancerHelp.org.
can rob a woman of her energy, appetite and strength, but it doesn’t have to take away her self-confidence. Look Good… Feel Better® is a free program that teaches beauty techniques to women in active treatment to help them combat the appearance-related side effects of cancer
None of these free programs would be possible without the support of the community through our Relay For Life events. Relay For Life helps fund the American Cancer Society’s efforts to advance cancer prevention, treatment, patient services and cures. This includes the Society’s Patient Navigation Services program, which fills a critical void in health care and social services by acting as a full-service navigator to anyone touched by cancer.
Relay For Life is an overnight event that brings the community together in the fight against cancer to celebrate the lives of those who have cancer, remember those lost to the disease, and fight back against a disease that takes too much. Local volunteers will devote their time, talents and energy over the next several months to saving lives faster and creating a world with more birthdays as they prepare for this year’s American Cancer Society Relay For Life events. Teams of local businesses, schools, churches, community groups and families raise funds - prior to and at the event – to support cancer research to help find cures and to provide local programs aimed at helping people stay well, get well and fight back.
Thanks to the dedication of our volunteers and the funds raised through Relay For Life, in 2012, the Metro East American Cancer Society helped 1,094 new patients, arranged over 1,139 free rides for patients, provided free wigs to 167 Metro East patients and pampered 114 ladies in
the Look Good…Feel Better® sessions. For more information on a Relay For Life event in your community or ACS programs and services, contact the Maryville ACS office at 618-288-2320 or visit www.cancer.org.
2013 American Cancer Society Metro East Relay For Life Schedule Date
Event
Locaon
May 17 & 18 June 7 & 8 June 7 & 8 June 14 & 15 June 21 & 22 June 21 & 22 June 21 & 22 July 12 & 13 July 19 & 20 July 26 & 27 August 2 & 3 August 23 & 24 September 13 & 14 September 13 & 14
Edwardsville Collinsville Riverbend O’Fallon Dupo/Cahokia Freeburg Jersey Highland East St. Louis Belleville Clinton County Troy Bond Monroe County
Edwardsville High School Dorris Intermediate School Rox-Arena O’Fallon High School Dupo High School Freeburg Community High School Jersey Community High School Glik Park Ralph Jordan Stadium Belleville West High School Central High School Tri-Township Park Bond County Fairgrounds Gibault High School
For more informaon, contact the Maryville ACS office at 618-288-2320 #3 MetroEastParent.com
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David Robinson is serving as the interim principal at Holy Cross Lutheran School in Collinsville. He has been part of the metro community for the past eight years, however, on the Missouri side where he was the principal at a Lutheran school in the city of St Louis. For the past 17 years, David has served in ministry as a Director of Christian Education, classroom teacher, and school principal/administrator in 6 states throughout the Midwest. His wife, Diana, is also in education as an early childhood teacher at a charter school in St. Louis. His children, Callie and Preston, have had mom and dad as both teacher and their principal (and they say it’s the BEST!). David has served as a member of various boards and committees including School Night to Join Scouting, Chairman for the Greater St. Louis Area Council – Thunderbird District, Lutheran Association for Special Education, President-elect for Missouri District Administrators, Lutheran Elementary School Association Marketing Team, and has served on various state and national school accreditation teams. David is a native Arkansan and remains loyal to his Razorbacks.
Stand by Me...
Y
ou may recall from a previous article I wrote about being in a Couch to 5K Training Program preparing to run my first 5K. Well, I did it! In fact, I’ve already run in two races to date. I’ve grown up as an athletic type, but I have not been a “runner” by any means. I’m definitely NOT one to speak to being part of a training regimen, but I do see that this particular program gave me a schedule to follow. Tying close to that schedule was the accountability. Who holds you accountable? Maybe it’s a spouse who reminds you to be home at a certain time for dinner. Maybe it’s the administrative assistant who posts things to your calendar and sends regular text messages to make sure you are not late to a meeting. It could be a dear friend who helps you to uphold your responsibility as a parent and husband/wife. The ACCOUNTABILITY to follow through on agreed plans has even become something that my children are doing for me. I struggle as a driver at times (okay, all the time!) dealing with the other drivers (incompetent ones!) who don’t drive as safely or appropriately as they should. I’m not an enraged driver but I talk to the drivers of other cars without eye contact through my closed window. And guess who is listening…yes, my children.
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I should have caught on to this when they were younger when from the backseat, a car seat passenger would repeat in a loud voice, “WHAT ARE YOU DOING, YOU CRAZY DRIVER!!!” Not what I want to come from the mouth of my 2 or 3 year old child. Yet, today, as they are a teen and tween, I get called on my behavior as a driver. So, this ACCOUNTABILITY from my children is helping me to recognize I have some work to do. My kids are holding me ACCOUNTABLE in such a polite way. They take my words of frustration and start singing songs loudly so I, too, will start changing my rant against a driver to kinder words of a soothing song. It even means my daughter has me singing “Jingle Bells” in the middle of April. An ACCOUNTABILITY partner is valuable in helping us to keep things in the right perspective. I am happy that I have individuals aiding this for me as a father, a husband, as a boss, and even as a man of God living a life amidst the “hail of bullets” flying our way with temptations of all kinds. My wife (I love you, Diana!) guides me in being a kind and loving father. My men’s study group helps me to be a man of God in my role as father and husband. Dear friends (thanks, Mike and Hank!) help me keep my professional world in line. And my pastor (David McBurney)
keeps my walk with the Lord in focus as I grow in the Word every Sunday. In a school setting, the ACCOUNTABILITY comes from the model of teachers and administrators that guide with love and discipline to help shape and mold the young children and adolescents into adulthood where ACCOUNTABILITY will be a part of their personal and professional life. As a parent, I encourage you to model this lifestyle for your children. You can’t do it all. Many try. Many fail. I speak to that from experience. Step back and call upon those who can help you with the challenges of life. Some may just step right up to that roll whether you like it or not. Embrace it. For my Couch to 5Kers who trained together, I NEVER could have done it without you. To the trainers in the program: thank you, Laura and David, for the weekly notes, the schedule to run reminders, and the encouraging words to push all of us to the finish line. The ACCOUNTBILITY partnerships you have will help you to grow and stand empowered to take on so much more than you could ever imagine. Good luck in your partnerships!
Value, Loyalty, Quality.
Books We Love presented by
GLEN CARBON CENTENNIAL LIBRARY 198 S. Main St, Glen Carbon, IL 62034 Phone (618) 288-1212 • Fax (618) 288-1205 gle@glencarbonlibrary.org No Shelter Here
By Rob Laidlaw Age Level: 6 and up “Dogs have been man’s best friend for thousands of years. We cherish them as companions, groom them as show dogs, and depend on them as working partners. In No Shelter Here, animal advocate Rob Laidlaw describes the best way to find a new pet and provides terrific advice about how to adopt your future companion. Rob shares the stories of animal lovers who are trying to help dogs everywhere, from India to Chia, the U.S. to Serbia. Rob calls these people Dog Champions, and he wants you to become a Dog Champion, too!”
Isabella Girl on the Go
By Jennifer Fosberry Age LEVEL: Preschool and up “Isabella is a girl who knows how to make the ordinary extraordinary. A day in the backyard takes Isabella all around the world! From the Great Wall to the Great Pyramids, and from Big Ben to Chichen Itza. Isabella tries it all! Join Isabella on her adventure and discover that the far corners of the world are closer than you may think. And being anyting you want to be is all about dreaming what’s possible.” I Love You, Sleepyhead By Claire Freedman Age Level: All Ages
Look, little child, as the night is unfurled, the animals are going to bed all around the world. As the sun slowly fades and the soft, silver moon rises, the baby animals are snuggling down to sleep while their mommies watch over them. This collection of enchanting lullabies, with breathtaking illustrations, makes the perfect bedtime book for all sleepyheads.
Editor’s Choice: I Love You Stinky Face
by Cyd Moore Age Level: 4 and up A vividly illustrated bedtime story that shows how the unconditional love of a mother can be tested through the relentless questions of her little boy. “But Mama, but Mama, what if I were a super smelly skunk, and I smelled so bad that my name was Stinky Face?” Mothers love their children and this unconditional love is truly tested in I LOVE YOU, STINKY FACE. Lisa McCourt and Cyd Moore beautifully weave a reassuring tale of the love and affection of a parent. The imaginative son turns himself into a meat-eating dinosaur, a swamp creature and much, much more before being satisfied with the fact that no matter how stinky he is or how slimy of a creature he could possibly be, he is loved and nothing will change that. MetroEastParent.com
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Metro East Parent SCHOOL Showcase:
Providing Excellence... by Robert Ludwig publisher@metroeastparent.com Celebrating its 35th year in Maryville, St. John Neumann Catholic is rich in history. Friendships are built, legacies are born, and St. John Neumann has endured through the bad times and celebrated the good times as a family and community. “What makes our school so incredible is the community spirit we have here at St. John Neumann Catholic,” explained Jack Holmes, Principal. “Our parental involvement is second to none. They help build a sense of belonging that carries over to the students. And in the end, we not only produce good students, we produce good well-rounded young citizens.” Scoring well above the national average on testing, the student population has increasingly seen their classrooms evolve into models of excellence. With state-ofPage 17
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the-art science labs and technology in abundance in every classroom, St. John Neumann Catholic is preparing their students for the future without forgetting the past doctrines that have made the school successful throughout the years. “We have interactive whiteboards in every classroom, and tablets for when the students are not in the classroom,” stated Holmes. “We utilize today’s technology in our teachings and prepare the children for only the rest of their educational careers but their lives outside of academia.” “But the main reason we bring our children here is not just the great education they receive,” stated Jennifer Cadagin, a parent of a St. John Neumann student. “It is the quality of Christian Faith based education they receive as well. That is always on the forefront, no matter how much technology they use, they can never forget why they are here at St. John Neumann.”
But Faith and Education is not the only aspects of St. John Neumann that help occupy the time of their students. The school touts incredible success in athletics as well. Both boys and girls volleyball teams won conference championships last year, as well as many other accolades in soccer, basketball, track, and volleyball. Holmes, a retired coach and official, is proud of the success of his students in athletics. “It is important to be strong in spirit and in body.” The students also enjoy yearly class retreats to Chicago, Camp Ondessonk, Luke 18 Retreat, and Space Camp in Alabama. “The greatest thing about St. John Neumann Catholic is that the students are never told they could not be successful,” ended Munie. “They are taught that service to a community pays dividends, and they are destined and worthy of something better.”
ST. JOHN NEUMANN CATHOLIC SCHOOL
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By:
Sue Hezel
I
The Multiple Perspectives of Visual Art
n this article about visual arts, I cover the third lesson from the National Arts Education Association’s citing of the 10 Lessons the Arts Teach from the book “The Arts and the Creation of Mind” by Eisner, E., chapter 4, What the Arts Teach and How it Shows (pp. 70-92).
3. The arts celebrate multiple perspectives. One of the significant lessons of visual arts is that there are many ways to see and interpret the world. Your perspective or mental view, however deduced through experience or knowledge, is unique to you. This outlook is different from your child’s; therefore, it is unique to him or her as well. What you perceive when you view art can be very personal. Emotional responses and past experiences are as unique for you as it is for each viewer. No other discipline can boast this dynamic like the arts. Dual perspective is involved in art– that of the artist and of the viewer. As the artist we attempt to convey our perspective of the subject. We can express that in a variety of ways. Given the same image, the artist can direct or influence the viewer’s perspective through Page 19
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the state of the ARTS
intentional rendering. A hazy pastel image will elicit a different response than a sharply contrasted pen and ink image. The artist’s use of technique and mediums influences the expression they achieve, both instantaneously and over a lifetime. The arrangement of items in a drawing, the effect of light to soften or sharpen shadows, and the angle of figures or landscapes are just a few ways to manipulate a viewer’s experience. The possibilities are endless. It stretches the mind to think of all the ways one can render a piece of artwork to tell a story, set a mood, explain a situation or invoke a feeling…from an individual perspective. As a paid or commissioned artist, the art rendered is an attempt to portray the requested perspective. It is a very thought-provoking exercise when the artist needs to see and understand from another’s point of view and create something of artistic value. We all have perspective we yearn to share. The idiom “A picture is worth a thousand words” is quite true. Sometimes, words can be too descriptive and direct, whereas an image knows fewer boundaries of expression. Try expressing yourself using art. Embrace the freedom to do so from your unique perspective!
The Take Away…
Here’s a fun, easy, and creative drawing exercise you can do with your child that draws on sharing different perspectives. The next time you have to wait at a restaurant or doctor’s office, instead of your child retreating in to his or her electronic media-cave, use the time to play together. Make several rows of quarter-sized circles on a piece of paper. Take turns making something simple out of the circle. Examples may include a peace sign, a magnifying glass, or a globe. Ok, it’s your turn! Your perspective will direct your creativity and inspire others and theirs will open your mind as well.
Sue Hezel is the owner of pen2paper art studio in Columbia, IL. The eduArts method, founded by Mona Brookes, is taught by Sue to children ages 3 to 103 at the studio and offsite. At pen2paper art studio, a dozen professional artists teach a variety of art instruction, from photography to clay sculpture, and every kind of drawing or painting class.
Art on the Square Reaching out to the Community all year long
by Kathleen Kaiser For the last 12 years, Art on the Square has brought artists from all over the country and the world to downtown Belleville. From the development of the idea in 2001 to bring an Art Show of this caliber to the Square in Belleville, to its number 1 ranking 4 out of the last 6 years, to the outreach programs that are facilitated all year long, Art on the Square is passionate about bringing art to the communities in which we live. Art on the Square has expanded its outreach to touch the lives of our children in so many ways – from the ever popular Children’s Garden of Art section at the Show – where children get to make projects and take them home – to programs that take place all throughout the year. These outreach programs were created to enhance our children’s lives, plus the curriculum in our local schools, allowing for further nurturing of their vision and creativity. In its 11th year of existence, The Artist in Residency outreach program brings artists from the show directly into the classrooms of local elementary and high school classes. Children enjoy personal instruction in all types of mediums, from the actual artists that have been selected for the Show. This program is made possible by local business support in cooperation with the participating Artists, who both believe that continuing Art Education in Schools is vital to a well- rounded education for our children. For the last three years, the Art on the Square Sculpture in the City Program has selected a local High school to work with renowned sculpture artist and welder, Kevin Trobaugh, in designing and creating a sculpture piece, which the students work on throughout the year. This sculpture piece is then unveiled at ART ON THE SQUARE and is then permanently placed as a sculpture on the school grounds for all to enjoy. Art on the Square has also highlighted over 250 gifted High School Artists from 40 local High Schools to participate in the
High School Art Exhibition, hosted inside the Regions Bank Lobby during the show. Another educational outreach program – which is new this year - is the PNC BANK Connecting Creative Bridges Program. This program, designed to enhance the curriculum of the Connective Bridges Development Program through School District #201, has brought Joe Carriel, a special education art instructor into the program to promote developmental enhancement though art to the developmentally disabled students ages 16-21. Art work from this program will be on display at the Show this year. Also in the 3rd year of existence, Art on the Square provides it facilities on the public square as classrooms and exhibit space to accommodate local artists from the Gateway East Artist Guide. This organization also holds classes throughout the year for military children with deployed parents – free of charge. This program is available through grant funding and donations made specifically for this program through the Art on the Square Foundation. Art on the Square also had the Mom’s in mind, when Executive Director Patty Gregory created the LIVING WITH ART Design Stage. While the children are hanging out with dad at the Children’s Garden of Art, Mom can relax and learn from professional interior, floral, and landscape designers on how to incorporate your purchases from the Show into your home. This portion of the show is a must see! Art on the Square would like to invite your family to visit the Public Square in Downtown Belleville May 17th, 18th and 19th to enjoy the artists, exquisite food, 1st class entertainment, and all the children’s activities that will make it a weekend you will want to experience year after year. For more information about Art on the Square or its outreach programs, please visit artonthesquare.com.
on the
instrumentS That Won’t Break Your Budget! By Garrett Peek
M
usical instruments can be a pricey investment. However, if you take the correct steps when purchasing an instrument, it can be a great investment in both your child’s future and with the instrument itself. This column is designed to be a helpful guide so that you can make an informed decision when you are ready to purchase or rent an instrument. Rental programs are a great way to get common school band instruments such as the brass, woodwinds, and percussion instruments. The rentals generally have a monthly fee and the better programs will apply the rent towards the purchase of the instrument (if that is something you decide on). Most companies offer insurance on the rentals (this is highly recommended) that will cover everything from instrument flaws to the instrument being dropped. This insurance can also cover any repairs that are needed to keep the instrument functional. These rental programs are also a great way to see if the student is going to continue a music education without having to spend a lot of money at the onset when the commitment can be questionable. Some instruments are not generally available through common rental programs. One such example is a drum set. There are ways to maximize your investment though if you are looking to purchase a drum set. The entry level sets are great purchases but you have to make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck. The real low-level entry level sets that can be purchased at big box non-music
stores are not good buys. They are made very cheaply and don’t hold up over time or retain any value. The best purchase for entry level sets is to find a respected name in the drum industry (Pearl, Ludwig, Tama, etc) that offers an entry level option. Inspect the hardware (stands, pedals, etc) and make sure they appear to be able to withstand the amount of use you wish to get out of them. The hardware is the most important part because replacing these can get expensive. If you get a respected name and the hardware is decent and well maintained throughout it’s usage, the set will usually retain a good amount of the value and can be resold for sometimes as much as 75% of the original purchase price regardless of how old the set is. Guitars are not generally a part of common rental programs either. The main reason for this is because entry level guitars can be bought relatively inexpensively. Respected names in the guitar industry (Fender, Gibson, Takamine, Dean, etc) have entry level acoustic guitars that can be sold for as little as $120 and electric guitar packages for around $150-$200 (depending on what is included in the package). These guitars can be adjusted to make them play better and are a good (and cheap) way to start a music education. Piano (or keys) can be tricky to purchase because of all the technological advances and options that can confuse customers. To learn piano it is no longer an absolute necessity to own a piano. Keyboards and digital pianos have come very close to mimicking pianos and are close enough now to where the practice on them can easily translate to a full-sized piano. One of the most important
features to look for is the amount of keys. The best keyboards (or digital pianos) have 88 keys but most teachers agree that 76 keys are acceptable also. 61 keys and less cause too much range to be lost and it can hinder learning. The other important feature is to make sure the keys are weighted and full-sized. These allow the keyboard to feel and play just like a real piano. You should be able to find a keyboard or digital piano from a reputable company (Yamaha, Casio, etc) with these features for around $300. That’s not exactly cheap but it is in relative terms to what a fullsized piano costs. The best advice is to be wary of deals on any instruments that seem too good to be true (they usually are). Many big box stores now sell instruments but these instruments are generally much lower in quality than anything found in a respected music store. It’s generally worth the extra money to go to a reputable music dealer that knows the products inside and out and can assist you with your exact needs within your budget.
Melodic Rhythms 110 North High Street Belleville IL 62220
618.233.0659
Music Lessons Instrument Sales, Rentals & Repairs School Tutoring ACT/SAT Prep GED Training
www.MelodicRhythms.com
572 Memorial Drive Breese IL 62230
618.526.7588
Organization is key to kid’s closets by Tara Hilmes, Co-Owner of Wee-Peats Kid’s Resale Shop in Fairview Heights, and Mother of two.
T
he weather is warming up, and it’s time to get out your kids t-shirts, shorts, and sandals! You finally dig them out, and they are one-size too small. The key to keeping your sanity while essentially changing your little guy’s entire wardrobe is organization! As a full-time working mother of two, and co-owner of a children’s resale store, I have been up to my ears in little clothes. Over time, I have developed 8 easy to follow tips for getting and keeping and organized kid’s closet: 1) Dedicate yourself. Cleaning and organizing closets can be an overwhelming task, especially if Jr. is underfoot proclaiming his undying love for that two-sizes too small Sponge Bob t-shirt. So send the kids to grandmas, turn up the tunes, and get busy! 2) Touch Everything. In order to do the job right, you should go through every single item in the closet. Leave no shoe unturned, and no sock forgotten. Now is a good time to scale down on old toys, books, and clothes that no longer fit. 3) Lift and Separate. Make three piles. One pile to keep, one pile to donate, and one pile to sell. • The keep pile should be the smallest…out with the old, and in with the new! Seasons are changing, and Jr. is growing. If the shoe doesn’t fit, it must go! If you are hanging on to an item for sentimental value, archive it for safekeeping. • Next you must decide what to sell. Research your local Children’s Resale stores, and find out what they are looking for. Set aside the clothes and shoes that are in great shape and less than five years old. You can turn them into cash to buy new sizes for the new season. • What is leftover should go in your donate pile. Your local charity will be glad to see you coming with your bag of goodies! 4) Clean Slate. Now you are ready to create your masterpiece! Determine how you can use the space efficiently. Even small closets can be very functional if they are well organized. If you already have a closet system in place, rearrange the shelves and bars so your child’s clothes can hang comfortably. Capitalize on
your child’s small size and double up the hanging space, you’ll be able to hang twice as much, and your little guy can reach his own clothes. If you don’t have a closet system, you can still affordably get organized. Pick up a Closet Doubler, they can be found at most major home stores for under $20. You can fill the extra room you’ll create with a dresser or shelves and bins. 5) Recreate. Now what? Begin by combining like-items. Hang shorts and skirts together, short sleeve tops together, sweaters and jackets together… you get the picture. Hang heavy or seldom used items toward the back of the closet. Once you have everything in its place, make a list of items you are missing, such as bigger shoes, a new jacket, or extra shorts. Keep the list with you for easy access while you’re shopping. 6) A place for everything. Make a place for everything, so he can put everything in its place. Create a shelf for shoes, or invest in a hanging shoe organizer, so Jr. knows exactly where each pair belongs. Designate drawers or bins for loose items such as socks, underwear, belts, or toys. Labeling each bin, shelf or drawer will help him remember where everything goes. 7) Prepare. When you are hanging clean clothes, put outfits together on the same hanger. This makes for easy mornings when you’re in a hurry to get out the door. If you’re ambitious, set aside outfits for each day of the week, and hang them in a designated space. 8) Re-visit. Take time once a week to skim over the closet and touch up out-of-place items. If you notice that your child is outgrowing an item, start a collection at the top of the closet to bring to your local children’s resale store on your next visit. Keeping their closet organized seems like a never ending task, but it will save you time and frustration in the long run. I would love to see your masterpiece! Upload a picture of your new closet at www.facebook.com/weepeatskids.
Ridiculously Adorable * Unbelievably Practical * Impossibly Affordable We Carry Many Items!
•All brands of clothing, sizes 0-16 in hard-to-tell-from-new condition! •Maternity Clothes •Kid Gear: Ride-on cars, Slides, Play Kitchens, “Melissa & Doug” toys, etc •Baby gear: Bumbos, Wagons, Pack and Plays, High Chairs, Strollers, Swings, etc Visit us online at www.wee-peatkids.com or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/weepeatkids
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It so happens that most of my staff and I had a child with a birthday within the last few months, so we tried out various places that catered to children’s birthday parties, and came up with some incredible ideas for parties. This is just a small sampling of the great venues in the Metro East Area. Sorry, we only have so many kids in our staff families.
The first article was written by Julie Fiorelli, Metro East Parent Magazine’s expert on everything family! She explains the process of selecting the perfect party and location for her beautiful daughter Natalie, and the challenges it took to cater to her disability! The second is an article from our friends at Edison’s Family Complex, Edwardsville’s award winning fun place. My daughter was turning six. She is getting to the age that she will remember her special birthday parties. I wanted her to have a fun birthday that she will remember. Last year, we had her party at our house. At that time she was into penguins, we decorated our finished basement, my husband did magic tricks, and we planned several games. The party was a lot of work to get ready for and even more work to clean up after. Needless to say, this year there was not going to be a party at our house. What to do in this area for a six year old girl in the Metro East? I had a few constraints or obstacles that I was facing. My daughter is physically disabled, and in a wheelchair. That means that anything like jumping things or trampolines are out. She is also in kindergarten, which means if you invite
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one of the classmates, then you invite the entire class, which means boys and girls. So a girly party where you dress up like a princess is out. After considering many options, I narrowed it down to three alternatives which I thought were very different and creative. The first option was a swimming party at the Monroe County YMCA. The kids can swim and you get a large party room. The second option was an art party at Pen 2 Paper in Columbia, IL. This is an art studio that teaches all different kinds of art to all different ages. They also offer a birthday party. You can choose any type of art project with any medium. The third option was a cooking party at Eckert’s in Belleville. In addition to a restaurant, Eckert’s in Belleville, IL has a large room off of their grocery store, where cooking classes are held. After much consideration, I chose the cooking class at Eckert’s. At Christmas time this is where kids came and
rozanne & John mulcrone
Your place, or ours (with magic & inflatables in Webster Groves). Abra-Kid-Abra 314-961-6912 “Your magic show was hilarious. www.abrakid.com The kids loved it!” Nancy Stranczek
Cooking Party at Eckert’s in Belleville
decorated Christmas cookies, I really liked this room at that time. It is so light with tons of windows and there is plenty of room for my daughter to get around in her wheelchair. Eckert’s offers birthday party for kids, where they get to be chef ’s and make their own lunches. You can order a cookie cake from Eckert’s or bring in your own cake. It was the greatest birthday party. All twenty of my daughter’s classmates showed up for the party. Eckert’s had the room all set up. The children made their own lunch. It was very organized. There were two wonderful ladies who not only knew how to cook, but were fabulous with the children. The parents of the children who attended told me they thought this was the best birthday party they had ever been too. We brought our own cake. My daughter loves Buzz Light Year, so I had a special cake made by Gourmet Goodies by Ginger (can be found on Facebook) We also hired the best balloon master in St. Louis from Premier Entertainment. The kids got to pick what they wanted made, he can make anything out of balloons. The most important thing was that my daughter loved it. She had a great time. It was a birthday to remember. This whole experience made me realize that more information should be available for parents in the Metro east area of what is available. The following page provides a guide of many places available for birthday parties for all ages.
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Name Age Group
Description
Location
“I Do” Entertainment 6400 W. Main St., Suite 3D, Belleville, IL 618-213-8300 - www.idoentertainyou.com
All
Your every need for every occasion at one place! DJ, Photography, Magician, Balloons, and anything else you can think of for birthdays, weddings, and reunions!
Eckert’s 2719 Eckert’s Ln., Millstadt, IL (Season Permitting) 951 S. Green Mt. Rd., Belleville, IL - (618) 233-0513
All
Cooking Party, Princess Party, Outside Play, Fun at the Farm
Younger
Food, playground, good times
YMCA - Monroe Cty. 9514 Caring Way, Columbia, IL - (618) 281-9622
All
Splash Parties, Bounce House Parties, Children Center Parties, Sports Themed parties, Gymnastics Parties
YMCA - O’Fallon 284 N. Seven Hills Rd., O’Fallon, IL - (618) 628-7701
All
Swimming, Cowboy, Gymnastics, Princess, Superhero, Rock Wall
YMCA - Collinsville 1 Town Center Dr., Maryville, IL - (618) 346-5600
All
Splash Parties, Dodge Ball Parties
YMCA - Belleville East 2627 Carlyle Ave., Belleville, IL - (618) 236-9983
All
Children Center Parties, Bounce House Parties, Sports Themed Parties, Splash Parties
YMCA - Downtown 200 S. Illinois St., Belleville, IL (618) 233-1243
All
Splash Parties, Sports Themed Parties, Children Center Parties
New Art Legacies 5605 N. Illinois St., Fairview Hgts., IL (618) 257-0705
All
Very Creative, Duct Tape, All Art Mediums
Pen 2 Paper 104 Veterans Pkwy, Columbia, IL - (618) 340-3490
All
All Art Mediums
Imagine Birthdays 6322 Old Collinsville Road, Fairview Heights (618) 628-4169 - www.imaginebirthdays.com
All
Themed Parties for Occasions
Jump 4 Fun (618) 654-JUMP - www.ILjump4fun.com
All
Bouncers & Inflatables
Abra-Kid-Abra (314) 961-6912 - www.abrakid.com
All
Magician, Balloons, Inflatables
Edison’s Entertainment Complex 2477 South State Route 157, Edwardsville, IL (618) 307-9020 - www.Edisonsfamilyfun.com
All
Incredible Entertainment Complex with Laser Tag, Arcade, Bowling, and much, much more
Core Elite 1208 Old Trenton Rd. Highland, IL (618) 654-8030 www.coreelitetumbleandcheer.com
All
Obstacle Course, Olympic Size Trampoline, Bounce Houses, and much, much more
Jammin Jumpers (618) 407-2379 - www.jamnjumpers.com
All
Bounce House and Inflatables
Collinsville Area Rec Department (CARD) 10 Gateway Dr., Collinsville IL (618) 346-7529 - www.CollinsvilleRec.com
All
Everything from Splash City to Facility Rentals, Awesome Location!
Kiddo’s Closet & Clips 1023 Century Dr., Edwardsville, IL - (618) 659-9999 5621 Old Collinsville Rd., Fairview Hgts., IL (618) 622-8500 - www.kiddosclosetandclips.com
Ages 2-13
Princess Parties with make-up, nails, and the whole salon atmosphere for your little Princess
Belleville Family Sportsplex 2346 Mascoutah Ave., Belleville, IL - (618) 277-7111 www.bellevillesportsplex.com
All
Facility Rental, Pictures, and great food!
Nichols Community Center 515 East D St Belleville, IL 62220 - (618) 277-9785
All
Belleville’s Best Kept Secret! Facility Rentals, Basketball Courts and Fun Rooms
Starlight Visual & Performing Arts Studio 903 Main St., Highland IL - (618) 654-3915
All
Plan Your Unique Party That Enhances Your Child’s Creativity
Chick-Fil-A 2532 Green Mount Commons, Belleville, IL (618) 257-9700
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r ty Salon Pa o’s at K i d d Closet
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www.imaginebirthdays.com 6322 Old Collinsville Rd. • Fairview Heights
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10 Tips for Easy Birt by Heidi Wickenhauser, Edison’s Luminary of Language If you’ve ever planned a birthday party for a child, you know it can be a stressful endeavor. Whether you’re planning your next party at home or renting out a party facility, some simple planning can keep you stress-free from start to finish. The party planners at Edison’s Entertainment Complex in Edwardsville, IL are experts in planning kid’s birthday parties, and they suggest following these tips for planning your child’s next birthday party: 1. Make a Timeline – Planning should begin about six to eight weeks in advance. Create a timeline with periodic goals to make sure the party is on the right track to success. Timelines also reduce the chance of problems occurring on party day.
A $25 Value!
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2. Set a Date – Try to pick a date that will not conflict with other events or social obligations your guests may have. Community events, church group outings, vacations, holidays, and sporting events may all cause a conflict resulting in lower attendance. 3. Select a Venue – Hosting your child’s birthday party at home can provide many conveniences such as your own kitchen or your child’s favorite toys. If you choose to host the party at a restaurant or entertainment facility, you’ll benefit from having a party planner coordinate all the details, and you won’t have to worry about your home being destroyed by a group of energetic kids.
4. Consider the Weather: If you plan to host a party outdoors, be sure to have a plan for inclement weather. This factor can be eliminated if you choose to host your party at a restaurant or entertainment venue. 5. Choose a Theme – Getting your child to commit to a theme can be an interesting challenge, but once selected, having a theme makes customizing invitations, decorations, cake, and goodie bags a lot simpler. 6. Send Invitations – As a general rule, guests should have the invitation to the party a minimum of 2 weeks in advance. Be sure to request RSVPs for both acceptances and regrets.
hday Party Planning 7. Sweet Treats – Birthday cakes are a great way to continue the theme of the party, but be sure to ask your child if he or she would prefer something different like cupcakes or pie. If your child prefers deserts “a la mode,” be sure to ask what flavor ice cream he or she wants. If your child’s party is taking place at a local restaurant or entertainment center, keep in mind some venues don’t allow outside food or beverages but most will provide you a suitable option that will keep your kid feeling like king for a day. Don’t forget to also plan for paper plates, napkins, and plastic utensils too. 8. Entertainment: If you’re planning on hiring a magician, balloon artist or some other type of performer, be sure to do this well in advance so you have time check references and compare pricing. “Pin the Tail on the Donkey” is
a classic party game, but there are tons of other games that your guests may also enjoy – just look online! Also, select some kid-friendly songs and plan out if you’ll use an MP3 player, boom box, or other device. 9. Recruit volunteers – It is no secret that excited kids can be hard to control when party time comes. Having another parent (or parents!) volunteer to chaperone not only helps you control the guests, but also provides you more time to enjoy the party as well. 10. Goody Bags - Sending the guests home with a party favor is an unofficial way of thanking them for coming. These can get expensive, so consider setting up a craft station and letting your guests make their own keepsake! Keep in mind, some party hosting venues offer prizes, leaving you with one thing less to-do list item your plate.
11. Thank you cards – Show your guests that you appreciate them attending the party! Thank you notes should be sent out in a timely manner. Photo cards create an excellent chance for you to say thank you and provide a memory that will last forever!
Don’t forget you’re a kid too, so have fun at the party! Try to avoid getting caught up in the details, and enjoy yourself! Edison’s Entertainment Complex offers parties for anything worth celebrating, and kid’s birthday parties are our specialty. Our Party Planners execute close to 100 birthday parties each month and are always available to help! Whether hosting your party in your home or at Edison’s, follow these tips for a worry-free birthday!
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RecepTIOn HOuRs: Mon.-Fri. 5-9 pm, sat. 8 am-1:30 pm MetroEastParent.com
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ask the trainer... Guest columinsts, William Miller of Dynamic Fitness Management will answer any and all questions emailed to him at wmiller@dfmfit.com and place some of the more pertinant answers in his column every month. This month I want to take a break from answering readers’ questions to address an issue that we in the fitness industry take very seriously. Summertime is just around the corner and our children will not be in school much longer. For almost 3 months, the children of the nation will have no responsibilities in the classroom. How you choose to structure your child’s summer could have a tremendous impact on their lives, so I encourage you to take some time and consider your options. There is a tremendous amount of camps and programs available for children over the summer that range from music and the arts to sports and even academics. We trainers want to encourage you to keep your children active and moving in whatever they do! We live in a time of astonishing technological marvels. Huge screen televisions with pictures so clear they look more like windows into the next room showing hundred million dollar Hollywood movies and countless entertaining shows being broadcast into your house 24 hours a day easily tempt you to stay glued to the couch. Cell phones, tablets and computers connected to a seemingly infinite source of games, information and cat pictures on the internet also offer the opportunity to spend days on end without moving a muscle. All of this can take a back seat to one of the greatest reasons our children love to sit still: video games! However, limiting kids to short stints of television, computers or games a day may not be enough. Some kids will be active with little prodding, others will need more structure to get them moving. For children who are used to a large amount of
physical activity sports would be the obvious solution but many of our children do not have interest or experience in a sport. There are a number of fitness camps in and around the area that are specifically geared towards kids and teaching them the habits that will help them for the rest of their lives. In 2005 a commission published in the Science of Aging Knowledge Environment that warned of a disturbing trend. They argued that the increasing epidemic of child obesity that is sweeping across our nation could cause the youngest generation of Americans to be the first with a shorter life expectancy than the previous generation in more than a hundred years (Olshansky et al. 2005). In a day of high technology and constant medical breakthroughs there should be no question about whether our children will live longer and fuller lives than us or our parents before us. The fact that our children could be expected to live shorter, unhealthier lives than us is appalling. The answer to this problem will not be found in technology, it will not be on TV and it will not be a magic pill. The answer to this issue is us the parents. You must keep your kids active, you must keep them moving. It does not matter if you enroll them in any of the countless fitness camps or organized sports available or if you adopt an obese dog and make them run it until its skinny. It comes down to you, the parent, to make this happen. The results this will have on your child’s whole life will be far reaching and dramatic. We owe it to our children. Olshansky et al. Sci. Aging Knowl. Environ 1 June 2005: pe15
About William I was born and raised in the Metro East. After graduating from Belleville East I joined the Marine Corps. Upon returning I attended SWIC and then KU where my academic focus was on Psychology. Since college I have dedicated my career to learning everything I could about becoming the best personal trainer I can be. I currently work for DFM as the Director of Personal Training in the Fairview Heights Club Fitness location. William Miller NFPT, CrossfitL1, USAW L1
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May is National Foster Care
Month
A
bout 408,000 children in the United States currently are in foster care because their own families are in crisis and unable to provide for their essential well-being. Many children in foster care are unable to return home safely because their parents lack access to services that could help strengthen the family. Christian Social Services of Illinois (CSS), a nonprofit child welfare and family service agency headquartered in Belleville, manages the largest foster care program in Southern Illinois, providing case management for over 900 foster children and their families from the 42 southernmost counties of the state. Every day, the agency makes a difference in the lives of people hurting right in our own backyard, offering many services to “strengthen families and build community”. Beside foster care services, CSS also offers professional counseling for individuals, couples, families and schools; private adoption, adoption search and pregnancy care services; St. John Bosco residential treatment center in Belleville for abused and neglected children ages 6-12; St. John’s Daycare and Preschool in Belleville; senior assisted living in Olney and senior employment program in Mt. Carmel. With over 200 employees offering services at nine locations including three in Belleville and one in East Alton, CSS strives to meet the social and emotional needs of persons of all backgrounds and all ages. But more help is needed. No matter their age, all children in foster care need a meaningful connection to at least one caring adult who becomes a supportive and lasting presence in their lives. Without families or stable relationships, too many of these formerly neglected and/or abused children and teens will end up facing life’s challenges all alone. Research shows that young people who
You Can Change a Lifetime! Christian Social Services of Illinois
Strengthening Families and Building Communities age out of foster care are far more likely than their peers in the general population to endure homelessness, poverty, compromised mental and physical health, insufficient education, unemployment, incarceration, and early pregnancy and parenthood. Children and youth in foster care are capable of overcoming the repercussions of previous neglect and/or abuse. Supporting children and families is a bi-partisan issue and should be a priority for all policymakers. Throughout the nation, everyday people are serving as foster parents, relative caregivers, mentors, advocates, social workers and volunteers. Thanks to these unsung
heroes, many formerly abused or neglected children and teens will either reunite safely with their parents, be cared for by relatives, or be adopted by loving families. Many children would not have to enter foster care at all if more states provided support and services to help families cope with crises early on. May is National Foster Care Month. Every state in our country has children in foster care. They belong to all of us. Now is the time to show we care. To find out how you can help, call Christian Social Services at 618-394-5900 or visit www.cssil.org or www.fostercaremonth.org.
!
Potty Talk with Dr. Steph
by Dr. Stephanie B. Berk
Q.
It is almost time for camp and my 3 year old is not potty-trained. Can I sign my son up, if he isn’t potty trained yet?
A.
I can understand why this question is so important. Parents that rely on camp during the summer so that they can go to work, or do their own activities, need to know that their child is taken care of during those hours. Sometimes when a camp says that the child must be potty trained, there is some flexibility. If it is a half-day camp, and your child can reliably pee in the potty, that might be enough for the camp to accept your child- so long as your child does not have a “poop accident” during the hours of camp. If the camp is a full-day program, they may not be able to accommodate your child. I recommend first calling the camp and clarifying exactly what they mean by “potty-trained”.
If the camp says that your son must be potty- trained by the start of camp, you have two choices: either figure out if your son is ready to potty train, and potty train him, or try to find another camp. It is not a great idea to put a time pressure on a child who is either not ready to potty train, or newly potty training. Even children who have successfully, recently, potty trained, will still have accidents.
Q.
I keep reading about the Elimination Control method of potty training. What is this all about? Does it really work?
A.
The Elimination Control method is initially a way of training a caregiver to get an infant to a pot/potty in time for pee and poop to fall in. As the infant gets older, the adult associates a cue or signal with the action of elimination, like saying, “pssss pssss”.
This can often lead to a child “holding it”, and any problems that happen because of retention. Regardless, eventually the child uses the potty regularly, and has a reduced time of using diapers. With potty-training, there are at least two definitions. With one definition, potty training can occur when the child has the ability to recognize the urge to “go”, and the physical control over the sphincters. This normally occurs between the ages of 2 and 4 years. This method is quicker when the child is ready to potty-train. This method also allows for a parent/ caregiver to leave the child for periods of time, e.g. to go to work. A second definition of potty training is when the adult knows when the child has to use the potty, e.g. as with the Elimination Control method. This is started as early as “at birth”. However, since it is the adult that is being “potty-trained”, this method only works if the adult can be there for the infant 24/7. The end result for both methods is the same: Eventually almost all children are potty-trained.
Potty-training a child can be an overwhelming and frustrating task for parents and caregivers. It doesn’t have to be. Instead, with the 3 C’s and the 3 Pro’s, it can be a rewarding and positive experience. This book provides a day by day schedule in Chapter 4, that tells you what to do and say to your young child. This second version of How to Potty-Train Your Dragon/Child provides an expanded chapter on night-time potty-training, and some other additions based on consumers’ feedback. About Stephanie – Stephanie is a mother of 4 young boys, with a degree in Human Development and Family Studies from Cornell University, a Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology from University of Connecticut, a post doctoral fellowship at Yale, and is currently a post-doctoral fellow at Washington University in St Louis. She has taught university classes on child and adolescent development, cognitive psychology, and the linguistics of American Sign Language and Deaf culture. When not doing research or teaching at Washington University, she gives classes on potty training based on her book, How to Potty Train Your Dragon/Child.
www.facebook.com/HowToPottyTrainYourDragonChild Page Page 31 31
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How to Keep Education Going in the Summer By Dr. Almeda Lahr-Well, Founder, President & Director of Lahr-Well Academy in Edwardsville, Illinois United States President Barack Obama states, “The challenges of the new century demand more time in the classroom.” Director of Education Policy Studies for the American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research notes, “Few countries offer more than seven consecutive weeks of vacation for students--as opposed to the United States’ average of 13 weeks.” Would year-round school solve our nation’s concerns about school performance? Would it help to produce more globally competitive citizens? How did we even “get” here...to these questions? Are our students not performing as well as they should be in academics? Do parents even care enough about how their child/ren perform? When public schooling first became available to U.S. students, our society was mainly agricultural (and children were needed during the summer months to help their farming parents...thus not maximizing learning time for students). Today’s society is a technological society where a demand for child, agricultural labor is greatly diminished. Statistics have long been available to substantiate that U.S. students generally lose 2.6 months of learning during the long, summer months. Additionally, there are statistics that suggest a “wake-up” call to U.S. parents, stating that U.S. students are globally testing 40th in math and science. So, while this great debate continues through the obstacles in the path of U.S. education, what can parents do to help their child/ren? Taking shorter summer breaks, and adding more summer classes and camps can help curb summer learning loss, as well as offer exciting enrichment. Parents can research summer camps and enrichment activities. Why not plan for some “quality” time with your child/ren this summer? Why not give your child/ren opportunities to leap ahead in preparation for next year’s academic endeavors? Last month’s edition of Metro East Parent Magazine can help you. It listed summer academic camps and summer enrichment classes. Camps are available from remediation through increased performance, from math and science to zoo, choral, instrumental, drama, writing, and sports. Of course visits to local libraries, library summer camps, and travel within the Metro St. Louis area also offer amazing opportunities for learning, as well as building that parent-child, bonding relationship. Help your child take advantage of summer enrichment activities! You won’t regret the time nor the money spent.
Lahr-Well Academy is offering a
Summer Camp/Summer School June 17-28th 9:00-11:00 AM
The program focuses on basic skill development, K4-Grade 12. The cost is $600.00
618.288.8024
903 NorTh 2Nd STreeT edwardSville, il
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National Police Week by Jason Sibert jason@metroeastparent.com Our country will celebrate the brave men and women who provide public safety in the coming weeks. The week of May 12-18 is National Police Week. The celebration started in 1962 with a proclamation from President John F. Kennedy and a joint resolution from Congress that declared May 15 Police Officer’s Memorial Day. Various ceremonies are held in Washington D.C. every year. “Anytime the country takes time out to honor those who make the sacrifices we and our families make, it’s a good thing,” Collinsville Police Chief Eric Van Hook said on National Police Week. “It’s always positive when people in the cities you serve appreciate what you do.” Although the media often portrays and glorifies the more dangerous side of the police profession - the tracking down and capturing of dangerous members of our society, public safety officers also try to build strong communities by reaching out to the young people and families across the country and in the Metro East. “Our children are the success stories of the future,” Van Hook said. “There’s a lot of challenges for kids in this day and age. Technology is one thing that presents a challenge.” Collinsville’s police force utilizes a number of mechanisms to reach out to the community’s younger generation. The force has two school resource officers - Eric Danford and Terry Wasser - who provide a physical presence in the schools for security reasons, but the job also allows them the opportunity to serve as a mentor for local youth. In addition, the department works with other departments in the Pact program which provides a link between at risk youth and the police department. Pact, a week-long camp in the summer, brings local youth and the police together in team-building exercises. Community Resource Officer’s Terry and Kim Wasser work on the program. “This is something that builds a positive Page 33
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image of the police forces and teaches our youth to make good decisions,” Van Hook said. O’Fallon Police Chief John Betten said first impressions are important when it comes to building a solid relationship with families. “First impressions are lasting impressions,” Betten said. “The family unit has changed over the years, and it’s very important that we help those who are challenged.” Betten said the biggest impact the department makes on the young is when they’re present in incidents that involve children. Like Collinsville, O’Fallon’s police force has a presence in the local school system, as Jay Spanley works as an SRO at the high school and Bill Barlock and Jamie Kilquest work in the grade schools. Betten said for a police force to be effective in an incident situation or in a public school they had to project a positive demeanor, be a positive role model as well as a mentor. He said the end result of this strategy is that the young “view the police as friends.” Like Van Hook, Troy Police Chief Robert Rizzi said technology is playing a greater role in children’s lives in both positive and negative ways. He also said that cyberbullying – a youth bullying another youth on any number of internet sites – is a part of the negative impact of technology on children. “We find it’s best to encourage parents to take an active interest in the way their kids are using technology,” Rizzi said. “They need to have an idea of what they are doing. Parents can monitor their Facebook accounts and anything else they use and see who they are communicating with.’ Troy’s department takes a proactive approach when it comes to issues regarding families. Sargent James Newcombe developed the CEASE (Community, Exchange, Awareness, Support, and Education) program which educates Troy families on the dangers of heroin addiction, identity theft
and anything else that concerns families and children in this day and age. The department also has a DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) officer, Chris Coyne, who remains active in the school system through the educating of local youth on the dangers of drug addiction. Although less educational in nature than some of the other departments’ efforts, Troy places officers at youth sports events and community holiday events like Easter Egg hunts. Rizzi said this practice forms an important bond with families and children and allows the department to form a relationship with them. The family unit has undergone a transformation over the years, as parents work more hours, work fewer common nine to five jobs and more families are headed by a single parent. Mascoutah Police Chief Bruce Fleshren said this fact has changed working with families over the years. “People are a little harder to contact that they used to be,” Fleshren said. “This makes resolving a situation a little more difficult.” Fleshren said Mascoutah provides a support system for families through quality schools and after school programs for children whose parent, parents or guardians are away after school. He also said the police department is involved in these efforts through its’ school resource officer program. Dave Lasica is the city’s SRO. “It’s (SRO) a job an officer has to really want to do,” Fleshren said. “It puts one in an office environment and away from traditional policing – ticket writing and crime fighting. You’re really more of a behind the scenes person, and the officer has to be one who can work in crises situations with children.”
Calendar of Events
Have an event you would like to see in Metro East Parent Calendar?
Email us at calendar@metroeastparent.com with the details and we will be happy to place it in there for you! Also, there are more events online at our new interactive website MetroEastParent.com!
CLASSES: Every Tuesdays and Thursdays 9:30am - 10:15am Kids Art Programs @ The Magic House Children ages 3-5 and their special grownup discover the magic of art through special 4-week multisensory art classes in the museum’s new Art Studio. Cost: $60 for nonmembers $40 for Members
Every Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 3:30pm - 6:30pm Homework Help (CHILDREN) @ Collinsville Memorial Library Every Wednesday 5:15pm - 6:15pm Zumba @ CARD Every Thursday 5:30pm - 7pm Golf: Golf Clinic @ Arlington Greens Golf Course
Ages 16 and up Designed for all levels of golf experience, this covers grip, stance, alignment, swing motion, fundamentals, iron play, wood play, chipping and pitching shots, putting and review. Bring your own clubs (some loaner clubs are available). $60 / $50 with Benefit ID
Every Thursday 6pm - 7pm Teen Initiative @ Collinsville Memorial Library
May 1
Every Thursday 6pm - 7pm Yoga @ CARD
These volunteer days are for outdoor work. Be sure to wear weather-appropriate clothing and use your discretion in the cold of winter or the heat of summer. Contact CARD for more details at (618)346-7529.
Every Saturday 1pm - 2pm Yoga @ Glen Carbon Library
WEEKLY OCCASIONS: Every Friday 11am - 1:30pm Free Lunch Friday @ Immanuel UMC EDW
Immanuel UMC, 800 N. Main ST, Edwardsville Open to all, in the church fellowship hall.
Every Friday 4:30pm - 7:30pm Edwardsville K of C Fish Fry @ Edwardsville Knights of Columbus 7132 Marine Road(Hwy 143), Edwardsville, Illinois 62025 Edwardsville Knights of Columbus will be having a fish fry from 4:30 -7:30 p.m. Enjoy a variety of menu items including fried cod, catfish, shrimp, and appetizers in a family setting. Carry outs available
8am - 1pm Volunteer Work Day @ Willoughby Heritage Farm
10am - 11am Wednesday Morning Play Dates @ Contemporary Art Museum
Where do hip kids and their cool parents go for culture? To CAM Play Dates on the first Wednesday of each month. Visitors have fun creating artwork together and meeting other families with an interest in contemporary art. This free program features hands-on activities, art projects, gallery activities, storytelling and more. Complimentary pastries and coffee are provided. Ages 2 to 5. FREE
5:30pm - 8pm Family Game Night @ Belleville Public Library
All ages are welcome. Children under the age of 11 must be accompanied by an adult. Call Michele at 234-0441 for more details. FREE
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May 2
energized about getting fit. All ages. 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Free with museum admission.
9:30am - 11am Totally Tots Playtime @ CARD 10am - 3pm Chocolatour (50+) @ CARD 4pm - 7pm Community Open House @ Illinois Center for Autism Where: 1306 Wabash Belleville, IL 62220
6pm - 8pm FREE Movie Night (ALL AGES) @ Collinsville Memorial Library FREE
Events take place in the Belleville Campus Theatre and are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted.
7pm - 8pm Teen Poetry Café @ Edwardsville Library May 3 5:30pm - 9pm Centene Fitness First @ The Magic House
Have an event you would like to see in Metro East Parent Calendar? Email us at calendar@metroeastparent.com
Children can earn free admission and take the first step toward a healthy lifestyle on the first Friday evening of every month. Families can stretch their muscles and their minds as they take the 1,000 step circuit through the museum touring hundreds of fun, educational exhibits and looking for “Fit Facts” filled with useful health and nutrition information. Each month will feature a different fitness theme as well as special guests and activities to get families
MetroEastParent.com
198 Complex Drive in Collinsville. During this free event, boys and girls age 7-14 show their baseball and softball skills for a chance to go to team championship events at the30 Major League ballparks and the national finals at the MLB All-Star Game. Register on-site that day. Sponsored by the Collinsville Area Recreation District and Major League Baseball. FREE
6pm - 11pm Star Trek vs. Star Wars @ St Louis Science Center
7pm - 9pm Guitar Ensemble @ SWIC – Schmidt Art Center
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5:30pm - 7pm MLB Pitch, Hit and Run Competition @ Jaycee Sports Complex
On the eve of Star Wars Day (May 4) and just weeks before the release of the long-awaited Star Trek Into Darkness, dust off your phasers and light sabers and come to the Science Center to make the case for your favorite Sci Fi franchise. First Friday features free hands-on activities and culminates with a free 10 p.m. screening of a classic science fiction movie in the OMNIMAAX Theater, public telescope viewing, a costume contest, team trivia, and a live debate featuring Webster University’s Forensics and Debate Team. Families are welcome.
7pm - 9pm SWIC Faculty Recital May 4 Wild Saturday @ St. Louis Science Center
On selected Saturdays, learn more about local wildlife rescue efforts from area animal organizations and interact with live animals! The featured group this Saturday is World Bird Sanctuary with their armadillo, Russell.
Sunday 10 – 2 Monday – Thursday 9 – 7 Friday 9 – 9 Saturday 9 – 7
9am - 12pm Build an Herb Planter Workshop for Kids @ Home Depot
Enjoy fun for the whole family at this fundraiser for the beautification of Faust Park. Kids can enjoy $1 carousel rides, magicians, a cakewalk and lots more, and there will be food trucks and the Run for the Roses.
At this free hands-on workshop, kids ages 5 to 12 will build an herb planter and learn about Team Energy Star. Paint will be provided for kids to personalize their herb planter. All participants will receive a free Kids Workshop Apron and certificate of achievement. They’ll also get a sense of pride and accomplishment! All supplies are provided. 9a.m. to noon at local Home Depot stores. To register and find the workshop nearest you, go to www.homedepot.com/workshops
10am - 11:30am Michael’s Crafts @ Michaels
9am - 12pm Magic and Circus Workshop for Kids @ Affton White-Rogers Community Center
Each of these child-centered workshops combines a playful visit to the galleries with an art activity. Adults participate and create along with children — no experience necessary. Preregistration is required.
Kids can learn magic tricks from real magicians, along with circus skills like juggling, balancing feathers, twirling ribbons, and how to twist balloon animals. They also get to practice performing in front of others, developing confidence and performance skills. The cost is $3 per child, and each child will take home a giant magic wand set and a discount coupon for magic or circus camp. Call 314-615-8822 to register. More information: www.stlouisco.com
9am - 12pm Monster and Micro Machines Day @ Des Peres Park
12325 Manchester Road, Des Peres. Monster and Micro Machines Day is a chance for kids to get up close to big vehicles and machines, like a police car, bulldozer, fire truck and much more. This free, hands on event is always highly anticipated each year! Sponsored by PNC Bank.
10am - 11am Derby Day & Fundraiser @ Saint Louis Carousel Faust Park, 15189 Olive Blvd., Chesterfield.
Thanks for Helping Me Grow Clay Pot Project
10:30am - 11:30am Family Workshop @ St Louis Art Museum
11am - 1pm Clydesdale Camera Day @ Anheuser-Busch Tour Center
12th & Lynch Streets, St. Louis Bring your camera for an up-close and personal visit with a world-famous Budweiser Clydesdale. This unique opportunity allows visitors to view and take photos with a Clydesdale. This event is held weather permitting on the first Saturday of each month. 11 a.m. to 1p.m. Free.
11am - 2pm Heritage Day @ Willoughby Farm
Heritage Day brings the early 1900’s to life. See demonstrations of weaving, quilt making, wood working, leather working and other heritage crafts. You can also visit the farm animals, listen to live bluegrass music, and tour the restored farm house. Other activities include nature tours, scavenger hunts, tractor rides, and gardening. Activities are appropriate for all ages. food and refreshments will be available for purchase. FREE
Call 618-407-5281 Today to ADVERTISE in
Metro East Parent
area storytelling times O’Fallon Public Library – 120 Civic Plaza 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM ................. Every Thursday.................................Storyteller Gail Long 9:30 AM & 10:45 AM.................. Every other Monday.........................Preschool Storytime 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM ....................... 3rd Monday of Month......................Fun and Furry Reading — Program — 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM.................... Every other Wednesday...................Babygarten 10:45 AM -11:45 AM................... Every other Wed. and Friday...........Beyond the Gartens 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM.................... Every other Friday............................Tween the Gartens
Eckert’s Country Restaurant 951 S. Green Mount Rd, Belleville
Your children will sure to be entertained during our holiday story hour. The kids will be enjoy hearing the story of the gingerbread man. After the story is over, each child can make a gingerbread craft. Fun for kids of all ages. FREE. Story will be told at 9 am and 11 am in the Garden Center. For more information call Eckert’s at (618) 233-0513
Belleville Library Presents
DIAL-A-STORY Dial 234-0555 and a child can listen to stories over the phone!
There is a new story every week! MetroEastParent.com
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Functional Ideas for Spring
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A. ORGANIZING SHOULDER 10 BAG $45 3165 Grey Brushed Twill
B. THERMAL MINI ZIPPER POUCH $12 4059 Take It Slow
6pm - 8pm Bowling for Dreams Fundraiser for Hospice Dreams @ Bel-Air Bowl dreams become reality. It’s also allowed C. WRISTLET STRAP $5 3606 Brown
Neely’s story is so inspiring! But it’s not a guarantee of your own actual earnings.B.Please see page 53 for important details.
D. DOUBLE THERMAL ORGANIZER O. SOFT WALLET $35 4022 Turquoise PopIsland Damask $22Cross 3003
our family to get out of debt and focus 200 Sinstead Beltof bills. WTheBelleville, IL 62220 19 on savings 27 with Thirty-One are opportunities Buy your Available online at endless, and the moretickets you’re willing today! to work your business, the more successful you can become. HospiceDreams.org/events or call (618) 972Now Thirty-One is more than just 7681 a career for me – it’s a second family. I THIRTY-ONE GIFTS | SPRING 2013
CELEBRATE | ENCOURAGE | REWARD C.
Sweetest Massage
11am - 3pm Fundraiser to benefit the 29 Belleville Area Humane Society @ 6 7 Rural King - Swansea 6
ThirTy-one gifTs | spring 2013
A. SUPER ORGANIZING TOTE $50 3893 Party Punch, Embroidery Style 13, Turquoise
A. SUPER ORGANIZING TOTE $50 3893 Party Punch, Embroidery Style 10, Black
B. POCKET-A-TOTE $10 4135 Turquoise Cross Pop
Booking Bonus $10 value
B. CHECKBOOK COVER
Everyone registered will receive a baseball, hockey puck, and personally autographed photos from each player. Former pitcher, Danny Cox, Blues player, Reed low and basketball standout from SWIC and future player at the University of Missouri, Keanqu Post will be signing autographs. Event is supported by the Belleville East Cheerleading squad and the “ESPN Street Team.” C. KEEP-IT CADDY $22 3894 Turquoise Cross Pop
3887 Party Punch
C. COUPON CLUTCH $25 4100 Party Punch
D. ZIPPER POUCH $15 3045 Punch Bowl
1pm - 2pm Dino Dinner @ St. Louis Science Center
Ever wonder what dinosaurs ate for dinner? Science Center staff will lead an exploration of dinosaur dinner menus and how dino teeth
continue to build incredible friendships and relationships with ladies whom I truly believe are a blessing from God. And the company really cares about each and every one of us as individuals. I feel like I’m part of something bigger and greater than anything I could have ever imagined.
6pm - 11pm Trivia Gone Wild presented by Commerce Bank @ Saint Louis Zoo
3pm - 5pm Spring Choral Concerts @ St. Paul United Church of Christ, Belleville May 6 6:30pm - 8:30pm Open Volleyball @ Dorris Intermediate School Gym May 7 8am - 9am Red Cross Live Discover the Red Cross in Action @ Jack Schmitt Chevrolet
127 Regency Park O’Fallon, IL Learn more about the lifesaving work of the Red Cross in your area. You’ll hear from visionary leaders as well as personal stories of those who have been impacted by Red Cross programs and services. The program is free and open to anyone, so bring a friend!
May 8 8am - 1pm Volunteer Work Day @ Willoughby Heritage Farm See May 1 for Description
6pm - 7pm Walk This Way, Make a Dog’s Day @ Belleville Animal Clinic 1600 North Belt East Belleville, IL 62221
4pm - 5pm Chess Club @ O’Fallon Public Library
Like to Play Chess? Join our chess club. For ages 9 and up. FREE
Amanda’s story is so inspiring! But it’s not a guarantee of your own actual earnings. Please see page 53 for important details.
7 Get your “beastly bunch” together for the Young Zoo Friends’ trivia night. THIRTY-ONE GIFTS | SPRING 2013
7:30pm - 9:30pm Elvis is Back @ Smithton Senior Center
May 5 Cinco de Mayo
6pm - 8pm FREE Movie Night (ALL AGES) @ Collinsville Memorial Library FREE May 10
Memories of Elvis (Immortalized by Steve Davis) Featuring Patsy Cline, Buddy Holly & The Mid-South Revival Band, food and drink available, $18in advance, $20 at door, for info call 618-473-3191, 618-475-3584 or618-8307634
9am - 5pm Spring Book Sale @ O’Fallon Public Library
Our spring book sale takes place Friday, May 10th thru Monday, May 13th during library hours. We will have lots of used books in great condition at excellent used prices!
2013 Penaut Butter & Jam Festival
Open MOnday – Friday 6:00 am to 6:00 pm Ages six weeks – 12 years old
Downtown Highland On the Square Every Friday 11 :30 a.m. to 1 p.m
May 31—George Portz & Friends of Bluegrass & Paint the Town Purple
For more information contact the Highland Chamber of Commerce info@highlandillinois.com
618-654-3721 Page 37
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Individual, age-appropriate classrooms • Art and learning programs for all ages • Field trips
DAY CARE ~ PRESCHOOL SCHOOL-AGE CARE SMithtOn 514 North Main Street (618) 234-8707
red Bud 1270 West Market Street (618) 282-4555
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10am - 11pm May Market @ National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows
The May Market will feature vendors, artisans, crafters and businesses from the St. Louis/Metro East area.
St. Louis Area Chapter
GOLF TOURNAMENT Friday, May 10, 2013 registration 11:00 a.m. shotgun start: 11:45 a.m. 4-Person Scramble
Annbriar Golf Course
$125 per player ($500 per team) $25 discount for First Responders and Red Cross Volunteers
1524 Birdie Ln., Waterloo, IL 618-939-4653
Registration fee includes green & cart fees, brats & hot dogs for lunch, full dinner, 3 drink tickets and free range balls.
WIn neW Car
Prizes, contests, drawings, optional skins Game & Mulligans
Hole-In-One could
from Weber CHevrO let Co lumbia, IL - Bill Em ling
Inquiries: 618-939-5255
Help People Prevent, Prepare for and Respond to Emergencies Proceeds Benefit: • Local Fire Victims • Local First Responders • Tornado Victims • Flood Victims
7:30pm - 10:30pm Late Nite Catechism @ The National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows
Catechism classes are never as much fun - or as hilarious - as when they are led by Sister in the international hit comedy, Late Nite Catechism, by Vicki Quade and Maripat Donovan Late Nite Catechism is an uproarious piece of theater that takes audience members back -sometimes nostalgically, sometimes fearfully – to the children they once were. The irrepressible Sister teaches an adult catechism class to a roomful of “students” (the audience). Over the course of the play, Sister goes from benevolent instructor, rewarding the “students” for correct answers with glow-in-the-dark rosaries and laminated saint cards, to authoritative drill sergeant. These abrupt mood swings are bound to strike a resonant chord with everyone who survived the ups and downs of going to school with an omniscient authoritarian at the helm. Join us for a wonderful night of theater as we present this hilarious, unique, onewoman show, from the creator and author of the Late Nite Catechism series, filled with hysterical audience interaction, musical highlights, wacky prizes, non-stop laughs and the irrepressible, irresistible Sister. General Admission Seats: $30 Register online at snows.org/LNC or contact the Shrine at 618-397-6700 x6292 or314-241-3400 x6292.
May 11 All day HappyFeet Early Summer Soccer League - 2013 Final registration for soccer - “Airplane” Park - Edwardsville, IL
Strawberry Festival @ Eckert’s Farms (Belleville)
This is the weekend to share with family and friends. And what better place to share it than the family farm! Enjoy outdoor festival foods and live entertainment at this old fashioned all-American festival .Free wagon rides. Kid’s activities include pony rides, children’s play area, petting farm, carnival rides, and inflatable. Strawberry treats in the bakery, custard shop and restaurant! Fee charged for some activities. 9am – 5pm For more information call (618) 233-0513.
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8am - 12pm Habitat Restoration Day @ Watershed Nature Center Our monthly efforts focus on invasive control and removal, replanting, and general site maintenance. Bring gloves, a water bottle, and tools like pruners and clippers, if you have them.
9am - 5pm Spring Book Sale @ O’Fallon Library See May 10 for Details
10:30am - 11:30am Girls on Fire! @ Emmenegger Nature Park
Near Powder Valley Nature Center in Kirkwood. Girls ages 12 to 18 can bring out their inner Katniss and learn some of the archery skills this character used in the popular book series and movie The Hunger Games. Participants will rotate between five activities throughout the day: archery, birding, fire/water/shelter skills, wild edibles, wildflowers and camouflage. Participants should dress for the weather and bring lunch. In case of inclement weather, the event will be moved to June 1 For more information and to register, call 314-301-1500 or go to www.mdc.mo.gov
1pm - 4pm Family Day @ St. Louis Art Museum May 12 Children’s Book Week Mother’s Day Page 39
MetroEastParent.com
HiGHlanD
618-654-2043 Strawberry Festival @ Eckert’s Farms (Belleville)
May 14
9am - 10am Mother’s Day Brunch @ Saint Louis Zoo
We will listen to stories, play games, sing songs and have a great time together.
See May 11 for Details
Give your mom a one-of-a-kind Mother’s Day this year: treat her to brunch at the Saint Louis Zoo. Complete with carving stations, breakfast fare, salads, cheeses, chicken, pasta, desserts and more, brunch at the Saint Louis Zoo is a wild way to spend Mother’s Day! Gratuity included. For information and reservations, call (314) 646-4897.
9am - 5pm Spring Book Sale @ O’Fallon Public Library
6:30pm - 7:15pm Evening Family Story Time @ O’Fallon Public Library May 15 8am - 1pm Volunteer Work Day @ Willoughby Heritage Farm See May 1 for Description
6:30pm - 7:30pm International Fiction Book Club @ Collinsville Memorial Library
See May 10 for Details
Meet us at the Blum House on the 3rd Wednesday of the month! Everyone welcome.
5:30pm - 6:30pm Mother’s Day Out @ Eckert’s Farms (Belleville)
6:30pm - 7:30pm Teen Advisory Group (TAG) @ Belleville Main Library
Treat Mom to a home-cooked meal without the dishes at Eckert’s Country Restaurant! Our special Mother’s Day menu will delight Mom and satisfy the kids. For more information or to make reservations, call Eckert’s Country Restaurant at (618) 233-0513 x. 3.
May 13 6pm - 8pm Bunko Night @ Eckert’s Country Restaurant
An old-fashion game for all ages. Play Bunko at Eckert’s Country Restaurant on the second and fourth Monday of each month. $5 per person includes game, prizes, beverages, and snacks. Open to the public. No reservation required. For more information call Eckert’s Country Restaurant at (618) 233-0513 x 3.
May 16
6pm - 8pm FREE Movie Night (ALL AGES) @ Collinsville Memorial Library FREE 6pm - 8:30pm Belle-Scott Enlisted Dinner @ Fischer’s Banquet Center 2100 West Main Street Belleville, Illinois
May 17 5pm - 9pm Art on the Square Art Show @ Belleville Square
Art on the Square is a juried fine art show located in beautiful downtown Belleville, Illinois. Now in our 12th year, and rated #2
by Art Fair Source Book, Art on the Square is held annually the weekend after Mother’s Day. Featuring the original works of over 100 accomplished artists from around the world, fantastic musical and stage performances as well as delicious local food and drink, Art on the Square is a three-day sensation for the eyes, ears and palate! Children will enjoy Art on the Square’s extensive and interactive children’s art section where they will create their own take-away art projects. There’s something for everyone to love at Art on the Square.
5:30pm - 6:30pm 5th Annual Smithton Chamber Golf Tournament @ Yorktown Golf Course 5:30pm - 6:30pm Free Family Night @The Magic House
Some of the best things in life are free These special nights enable a family (no more than two adults and four of their own children) to enjoy more than 100 hands on exhibits in the museum at no charge through the generosity of Emerson. Reservations are not required.
May 18
Strawberry Festival @ Eckert’s Farms (Belleville)
See May 4 for Details
Team, pet contests and lots more. Plus, you can meet the Bark in the Park Mascot -Trooper! Registration is available as an individual or team. Or, you can join an existing team. Proceeds help homeless animals at the Humane Society of Missouri. At Cricket Field in Forest Park beginning at 9a.m. For more information, a schedule and to register, go towww.hsmo.org
8am - 1pm Free Hearing, Speech and Vision Screenings for Children
10am - 8pm Art on the Square Art Show @ Belleville Square
See May 11 for Details
Wild Saturday @ St Louis Science Center
9835 Manchester Road in Rock Hill. As part of National Better Hearing and Speech Month, the Center for Hearing and Speech will provide free hearing, speech and vision screenings for kids, and free hearing screenings for adults, on Saturday, May 18. The screenings are part of the annual “Free Clinic Day” at the Center’s headquarters, 9835 Manchester Road in Rock Hill .Appointments are required and can be made by calling 314-737-5091. Licensed, certified clinicians will perform the screenings and offer treatment and prevention methods from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For additional information call 314-968-4710 or visit www. hearing-speechstlouis.org.
9am - 1pm Bark in the Park Humane Society Fund Raiser
Flea Market @ Belle Clair Expo Moonlight Madness @ Lincoln Park in Red Bud
Presented by Red Bud Chamber of Commerce
Cricket Field in Forest Park Take part in this fun, fundraiser for the Humane Society of Missouri. All ages can participate! There is a 1-mile fun walk and a 5K run. New this year is a pancake breakfast for just $7 per person. There will also be performances by the Purina Incredible Dog
See May 17 for Details
10am - 4pm Electronics, Appliance & Battery Recycling - Columbia
Department of Public Works 110 W. Sand Bank Road Columbia, IL 62236 Drop off location - accepting everything related to computers or electronics, household batteries, TVs, audio equipment, holiday lights & decorations, phones, lawn equipment, hot water heaters, appliances (including microwaves, stoves, refrigerators, air conditioners) and more. Click on WITS website for a complete list of accepted items. Donations requested to cover recycling cost. $5 fee for appliances larger than a microwave.
11am - 12pm Great Green Adventures @ Missouri Botanical Garden 1pm - 4pm Family Day @ St. Louis Art Museum
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Score One for Fun
! This Summer
2013 SWIC BASKETBALL AND VOLLEYBALL CAMPS Kids can learn the basics or sharpen their skills. Basketball Grades 5-8 girls Grades 5-8 boys Grades 5-8 shooting Grades 1-4 nipper
June 18-20 June 18-20 June 25-27 June 25-27
9 a.m. to noon 1-4 p.m. 1-4 p.m. 6-8 p.m.
Volleyball Grades 1-3 Grades 4-6 Grades 7-9 Boys ages 9-14
June 21-22 June 21-22 June 27-28 June 27-28
9 a.m. to noon 1-4 p.m. 9 a.m. to noon 1-4 p.m.
All camps are $65 and include a T-shirt. Download a registration form at swic.edu/athletics, or call 618-235-2700, ext. 5271.
2pm - 4pm St. Baldrick’s Foundation @ No-Jack’s Bar and Grill in Smithton
10:30pm - 12am Crazy Golf Fundraiser @ Twin Oaks Golf Club - Keyesport, IL
5:30pm - 8:30pm Murder Mystery Dinner: The Comic Book Killer @ Eckerts - Belleville
May 20
Shaving the Way to Conquer Kids’ Cancer, visithttp://www.stbaldricks.org/teams/ mypage/85510/2013
In a world where Super Heroes and Super Villains clash….there’s no room for trouble. But that’s exactly what the evil Doctor Weevil is. Trouble! He’s out to cause problems any way he can! He proves that there is no honor among thieves because he’s out to destroy both good and bad guys! But wait! Someone stops him! Who could it be? You? Show starts at 5:30, $40/person includes meal & entertainment.
6pm - 7pm Celeb “Dish-It-Up” Dinner @ Pasta Fare
Pasta Fare 5900 N Illinois St. #15 Fairview Heights, IL 62208 Four course wine dinner, May 18, 6:00 p.m. Featuring celebrity waiters~ KSDK’s Heidi Glaus, Ryan Dean and Dana Dean and Magic 100.3 Radio’s Jade Harrell. Seats limited! By reservations only! To reserve a table or for more information please call Pasta Fare at 618-632-1566.
May 19 Flea Market @ Belle Clair Expo Strawberry Festival @ Eckert’s Farms (Belleville) See May 11 for Details
Walk, Run, Roll @ St. Louis Cardinals Busch Stadium**Autism Fund Raiser
Help the Illinois Center for Autism hit one out of the park by joining us for the Walk Run ‘n Roll at Busch Stadium to cheer on the Cardinals as they take on the Brewers May 19, 2013! You can PURCHASE A TICKET for the Walk Run ‘n Roll
7:30am - 12pm Make Tracks for the Zoo @ St. Louis Zoo
Runners and walkers of all ages can participate in a run/walk through Forest Park to benefit the Saint Louis Zoo. Registration required.
11am - 5pm Art on the Square Art Show See May 17 for Details
11am - 4pm Kids Day @ Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
There is no admission fee but a donation of $7 for adults and $2 for children ($15 maximum per family) is suggested. Bring your kids to experience the rich history of the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site. This special day includes hands-on activities, crafts, games and dancing for kids of all ages. The activities are free.
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Registration 10:30am. 2 person scramble at Twin Oaks Golf Club in Keyesport, IL to benefit Leaps of Love which embraces families affected by childhood cancer. To register or additional information, call 618-410-7212
9:30am - 10:30am Wilderness Walk @ Watershed Nature
Free, open to the public. Registration requested for groups of 10+.Looking to boost your health and well-being in 2013? Whether you naturally enjoy spending time outside or need a little prodding to get you out the door, there is little refuting the benefits and effects of nature. Join us every third Monday to explore the trail and take in the beauty of the season. Bring your curiosity, questions, and keen eye for observation. For additional information, please contact the Watershed, 618-692-7578
May 21 10am - 11am Nature Playtime @ Willoughby Farm
Bring your preschooler to learn, explore and play on the farm at Nature Playtime at Willoughby Farm. A farm and nature expert will lead activities designed for ages 3-5 and their families. You’re welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy after playtime. FREE
4:15pm - 5:15pm Cultural Adventure Club @ O’Fallon, Public Library
We will learn about other cultures and traditions through games, guest speakers, crafts, and an occasional snack. For 2nd grade and up.
May 22 8am - 1pm Volunteer Work Day @ Willoughby Heritage Farm See May 1 for Description
10am - 11am You and Me Under the Canopy @ Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center
11715 Cragwold Rd., Kirkwood Bring your little ones to enjoy a nature adventure. This outing is perfect for parents or caregivers and kids ages birth to 8. Dress of the weather because this adventure begins with a hike with a naturalist to a special place in the forest. Then you’ll enjoy stories under the canopy. Reservations are not required and siblings are welcome. 10 to11a.m. more information and reservations call 314-301-1500.
11am - 7pm Annual Otto Golf Classic @ The Orchards Golf Course
The Greater Belleville Chamber of Commerce will host the 2013 Otto Golf Classic on May 22nd at The Orchards Golf Course. 11am - Check-in/ Boxed Lunch 12pm - Shotgun Start 5pm - Dinner & Awards
4:30pm - 5:30pm ‘Tween Book Club @ O’Fallon Public Library
Tweens Ages 9-12 join us each month to talk about books! We’ll have snacks, activities, and FUN. Our first book will be The Genious Files: Mission Unstoppable by Dan Gutman. Pick up your copy at the circulation desk! Our club meets every 4th Wednesday @ 4:30 pm.
May 23 6pm - 8pm FREE Movie Night (ALL AGES) @ Collinsville Memorial Library FREE 8am - 7pm Prairie Farms Summer Zoo Weekends @ Saint Louis Zoo 5pm - 8pm Jungle Boogie Friday Night Concert Series @ Saint Louis Zoo Bring the whole family for a free concert in the center of the Zoo.
7pm - 9pm Summer Concert Fest @ Eckert’s Farms
We are excited to host our secondannual Summer Concert Fest, featuring 15 weekends of live music on Friday and Saturday nights. The live music will take place in the plaza area, outside the Country Store from 7pm -9pm. This FREE event is perfect for all ages. We will have
kids activities and custard as well as grilled food and wine/beer available for purchase. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a beautiful evening with family and friends. If it rains, the concert will be canceled.
May 25 9am - 5pm Memorial Day Festival @ Eckert’s Farms Belleville
This is the weekend to share with family and friends. And what better place to share it than the family farm! Enjoy outdoor festival foods and live entertainment at this old fashioned all-American festival. Free wagon rides. Kid’s activities include pony rides, children’s play area, petting farm, carnival rides, and inflatable. Fee charged for some activities. For more information call (618) 233-0513
9:30am - 1pm Nature / Culture Hike @ Cahokia Mounds
3-mile hike through archaeological & natural areas of the site. 9:30am1:00pm. Free.
10am - 2pm Dog Walk @ Willoughby Heritage Farm 1pm - 4pm Family Day @ St. Louis Art Museum May 26 9am - 5pm Memorial Day Festival @ Eckert’s Farms Belleville See May 25 for Details
May 27 Memorial Day Splash City Opens
8am - 1pm Volunteer Work Day @ Willoughby Heritage Farm
41st Annual Gypsy Caravan @ Soldiers’ Memorial
May 30
Downtown St. Louis
Bunko Night @ Eckert’s Country Restaurant See May 13 for Details
Memorial Day Festival @ Eckert’s Farms See May 25 for Details
10am - 11am Memorial Day Parade @ Downtown Belleville May 28 10am - 11am Nature Playtime @ Willoughby Farm See May 21 for Details
May 29 John F. Kennedy’s Birthday
See May 1 for Description
6pm - 8pm FREE Movie Night (ALL AGES) @ Collinsville Memorial Library FREE May 31 Horseradish Festival @ CARD 5:45pm – 9:00pm Illinois Center for Autism Night @ the Grizzlies
Gates open at 5:45 PM ; Game Starts at 7:05 PM For more info. call Jude Mosby at 618-398-7500
5pm - 8pm Jungle Boogie Friday Night Concert @ Saint Louis Zoo See May 23 for Details
7pm - 9pm Summer Concert Fest @ Eckert’s Farms See May 24 for Details
7:30pm - 10pm Shriner’s Parade @ Downtown Belleville
Parade starts at 17th and West Main
MetroEastParent.com
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JOSH GRACIN
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PERFORMS LIVE DOORS AT 5PM. LIVE MUSIC AT 5:30PM. ALL TIX GENERAL ADMISSION. ALL SALES FINAL.Page 42 MetroEastParent.com EVENT AND TALENT SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. A PORTION OF ALL PROCEEDS GOES TO MILITARY RELIEF FUNDS:
What STAR NET Can Do For Parents As a parent of a child with special needs, it is important to know that you are not alone. STAR NET is an early childhood focused program that provides resources and support regarding children with special needs. You can communicate with other parents who may be facing similar situations, learn more about your child’s disability, learn about your child’s rights, how to advocate for your child and help you understand the services provided by the early childhood community. Fellowship Funds for Families
STAR NET provides: •information on specific disabilities. •free workshops and conferences on specific topics and disabilities, including an annual conference just for families. •networking opportunities with other families whose child has a similar disability. •a lending library with many resources, including books and DVDs, on specific disabilities. •financial assistance to attend conferences in-state or in the St. Louis area. STAR NET Mission
Funds are available for family members who have children ages 3, 4, or 5 with an IEP. The funds may be used to attend conferences in Illinois or in the St. Louis area. Funds may be used for lodging, child care reimbursement, and/or registration fees.
Illinois STAR NET provides a variety of opportunities for personal and professional growth for those who touch the lives of young children, ages birth through eight, with an emphasis on children with special needs. STAR NET supports family-centered researched and effective practices in early childhood education and care.
STAR NET is a statewide grant project, funded by the Illinois State Board of Education, through federal funds, that provides training opportunities and technical assistance to families of young children (ages 3, 4, or 5 with IEPs) and the professionals who work with these children. For more information, please contact Sheri Kraus at 618.825.3969 or skraus@stclair.k12.il.us http://roe.stclair.k12.il.us/starnet
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Belleville
Belle Clair Fairgrounds
Saturday, June 1 – 2 & 7:30 p.m. Sunday, June 2 – 2 & 7:00 p.m.
Waterloo
Monroe County Fairgrounds Monday, June 3 – 7:30 p.m.
Shriners Parade - Belleville, May 31 - 7:30 p.m. Ticket Retailers PROCEEDS BENEFIT AINAD SHRINERS. PAYMENTS ARE NOT DEDUCTIBLE AS CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS.
www.SoILShrinercircus.com