MetroFamily Magazine June 2013

June 2013

Bob Stoops

on balancing fatherhood, family & football “Pick” up good eating habits at one of Oklahoma’s U-pick-em farms

+

21 places to celebrate 4th of July metrofamilymagazine.com

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

3

• Click

what’s new at metrofamilymagazine.com CALENDAR DIRECTORIES BLOGS CONTESTS

SAVE MONEY

When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” ~ Fred Rogers

Proud to be Oklahomans

The past few weeks have been painful for us all—in Oklahoma, our collective family has been dealt a terrible blow and we are still working to recover. The tragic EF5 tornado that greatly affected Moore and parts of OKC on May 20th has strengthened our resolve and brought our Oklahoma spirit to the forefront yet again. Generosity and caring for our own is the Oklahoma way, the Oklahoma standard. MetroFamily is keeping a list of ways you can help on our website at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ways-to-help. We also have some important articles about helping your family with their mental health through a very stressful time. Follow us on Facebook, check our website’s home page often and sign up for Weekend Picks (www. metrofamilymagazine.com/subscribe-to-weekend-picks) to stay informed as we continue to look for ways to help those families in need and to support our fellow Oklahomans through the recovery effort.

Have more fun this summer with MetroFamily’s help!

All of the following resources can be found at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/summer:

• The annual Summer Survival Guide is our 100-day guide to summer, perfect to help kids and parents have more fun during the lazy, hazy days of leisure.

• Did your child do well in school this year? Our Report Card Rewards Guide shares where a final report card equals special treats and rewards at various venues across the metro.

• Help prevent the summer slide with our Summer Reading Programs Guide, which details programs that reward your child for reading during the summer months.

• Find 4th of July fun with our readers’ Top 10 fireworks displays in the OKC metro (see p. 9), and find even more patriotic events on page 48 and in our online Independence Day Fun Guide.

• Summer is the perfect time to explore new places and our 2013 Festivals Guide has the best family-friendly festivals across the metro and beyond.

• Check out our Outdoor Fun Guide, including places to get wet and watch outdoor concerts and outdoor movies. www.metrofamilymagazine.com/outdoor-fun

Join the MetroFamily community of active local parents at:

4

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

You could WIN big!

Sign up to be eligible for great prizes at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/contests.

• Enter to win a fabulous Visit Enid trip package featuring four tickest to see “Cirque Musica” held at the NEW Enid Event Center on June 27, dinner for four at Napoli’s Italian Restaurant, one night/ one room for four at Enid’s Hampton Inn, four passes to enjoy Leonardo’s Children’s Museum and a family pass to the Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center. Total value of package is $342.

Deadline June 15.

• Win one of three four-packs of tickets to see the concert by Big Time Rush and Victoria Justice of Nickelodeon fame, performing at the Chesapeake Energy Arena on June 30, 7pm. Deadline June 21.

• Enter to win a trip for four to the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine, Texas. Trip includes accommodations and breakfast for two nights and is valued at $800. Deadline June 30.

• Follow us on Twitter (www.twitter. com/metrofamily) and Facebook (www. facebook.com/metrofamily) for the announcements of other fun contests.

You could SAVE big!

Find coupons to the businesses listed below at www.metrofamilymagazine. com/coupons.

• American Hearing Aid Center • Skate Galaxy • The Vintage Pearl • Bouncin’ Craze • Water Zoo • Jump!Zone • Bright Smile Family Dentistry

PLUS, save big bucks with the 2013-14 Kids Pass that includes over 30 awesome coupons to local and statewide attractions.

Included this year are NEW discounts for venues such as Skate Galaxy in OKC and the Water Zoo in Clinton. Download your own Kids Pass at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-pass.

Contents June 2013

28

6

Dear MetroFamily

4

Family Shorts

Editor’s Note.

Community news, resources & other family-friendly information.

16 Learning Adventures Exploring family ancestry.

19 Calendar Courtesy of Oklahoma Agritourism

Fun events, activities and classes.

28 Exploring Oklahoma’s Agritourism Pick your own fruit at these Oklahoma farms.

38 Ask the Expert

Your questions answered about bedtime battles, healthy eating choices and combining parenting philosophies.

40 Focus on Education

Tips for preparing for college.

Visiting a “u-pick-em” farm can help your child learn where food comes from, see an operational farm in action and try new fruits and vegetables.

14 32 48

In honor of Father’s Day, our Real Moms of the Metro column has become the Real Dads of the Metro! We are pleased to feature University of Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops, sharing about parenting in the public spotlight.

We continue our exploration of Oklahoma’s best state parks with a look at outdoor fun in Beavers Bend Resort Park in southeastern Oklahoma.

Our Guide to Independence Day Fun shares more than 20 celebrations and fireworks displays taking place across the Oklahoma City metro and the state.

42 Your Healthy Family

Give your Dad the gift of health

44 Local Shopping

Norman’s Local—healthy eating from farm to fork.

49 Oklahoma Reads Great reads for all

50 Respect Diversity

Creating “World Changers”

54 Mom Gets the Last Laugh We are not the Joneses.

ON OUR COVER: University of Oklahoma football coach Bob Stoops & family. Read the interview with Coach Stoops on p. 14. COVER PHOTO BY: Shevaun Williams, www.shevaunwilliams.com

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

5

Dear MetroFamily, I’ve lived in Moore since 2001. I’m not originally from Oklahoma, but I’ve never been more proud to call myself an Oklahoman than I am now.

On May 20, I took my kids into the tornado shelter, called my husband at work to tell him I was safe and make sure he was too, and prayed relentlessly for all of my friends and neighbors.

The day before, storms had struck hard to the north and east of us, cutting a path of damage through Edmond, Shawnee, Luther and Carney.

This day the storms were hitting closer to home.

Ultimately, we weathered the storm, but the damage to Moore made an impact on the national Spencer and Lauren at the Moore Lanes bowling level. Unable to rush to the damaged areas and alley, celebrating Lauren’s 7th birthday in 2011. help, I turned to the internet and found comfort The building was destroyed in the tornado. at what I read there. Oklahomans and others used social media to help locate missing loved ones, donate goods and services, to offer their homes and hearts to comfort those in need.

The resounding message to all is that Oklahomans are resilient. They are giving and selfless and they help when their neighbors are in need. These are the people whom I’m proud to call my neighbors. We’re all shocked by the devastation of these storms, but we respond the only way Oklahomans know how; by helping.

Info And Questions: 405-601-2081 To submit events to our calendar calendar@metrofamilymagazine.com Publisher Sarah L. Taylor sarah@metrofamilymagazine.com Editor Mari M. Farthing editor@metrofamilymagazine.com Art Director Kathryne Taylor kathryne@metrofamilymagazine.com Advertising Sales Athena Delce Dana Price ads@metrofamilymagazine.com Office and Distribution Manager Kathy Alberty kathy@metrofamilymagazine.com Assistant Editor & Online Content Manager Brooke Barnett brooke@metrofamilymagazine.com

The storms have passed, but the healing continues. These efforts may take years, but we will rebuild and stand strong together.

Calendar Editor Sara Riester calendar@metrofamilymagazine.com

If you want to give or are in need of support, visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ways-togive for a list of resources and opportunities.

Project Manager Janetta Bridges janetta@metrofamilymagazine.com

Cheers, P.S. With Father’s Day just around the corner, I’ll be sharing some of the best lessons that I learned from my father in my blog, Keeping it Real. Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/mari to read more.

We asked our contributors:

What’s the best lesson you learned from your dad?

Brooke Barnett, Assistant Editor

I learned about the importance of being prepared & taking care of all the little details so they don’t end up becoming big problems.

Sarah Taylor, Publisher

My dad was a wonderful man who showed us what it means to do the right thing, always, even when it hurts.

6

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

Shannon Fields, Your Healthy Family & Focus on Education

Don’t sweat the small stuff— not because he doesn’t, but because he DOES.

Lela Davidson, Mom Gets the Last Laugh

My dad taught me to enjoy hanging out in nature, which is a great thing to teach your kids. Because nature is free.

Contributing Writers Brooke Barnett, Janetta Bridges, Lela Davidson, Julie Dill, Shannon Fields, Jennifer Geary Circulation 35,000 – OKC, Edmond, Nichols Hills, Norman, Moore, Midwest City, Yukon Also available as a digital edition at MetroFamilyMagazine.com.

Articles and advertisements in MetroFamily do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Inprint Publishing, Inc. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

The acceptance of advertising by MetroFamily does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

MetroFamily Magazine is published monthly by Inprint Publishing, Inc. 725 NW 11th, Suite 204 • Oklahoma City, OK 73103 Office: 405-601-2081 • Fax: 405-445-7509 E-mail: info@metrofamilymagazine.com ©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2013, All Rights Reserved.

Volume 16, Number 6

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

7

Contributing writers: Brooke Barnett, Janetta Bridges & Mari Farthing

Postpartum Depression Screenings Available

While up to 80 percent of moms experience some tearfulness, mood swings, and crying shortly after the birth of a baby—often called the “baby blues”—symptoms that get worse or last longer than two weeks may indicate postpartum depression. Postpartum depression also includes symptoms such as lack of interest in pleasure or activities, physical agitation, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt and decreased concentration or inability to make decisions. Public awareness, early identification and treatment are critical to improving the clinical outcomes for moms and their families.

According to Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH), 15 percent of Oklahoma moms report depressive symptoms two to six months postpartum. Similarly, across the nation, one in eight mothers reports the emergence of major depression within weeks of delivery. In coordination with its county health departments, OSDH is now offering a new screening service to identify women at risk for postpartum depression. New mothers and moms-to-be will receive education on the symptoms of depression and self-care practices that can reduce the risk and help to alleviate symptoms. When necessary, referrals will be made for mental health evaluation and treatment.

If you recognize the symptoms of postpartum depression in yourself or someone else, talk with a health care provider. For more information, visit http://iio.health.ok.gov and click on the topic “Depression After Pregnancy.”

Six Tips for Gardening with Kids

Gardening is a low-cost hobby that families can do together in their own backyard. Kamala Gamble, co-founder of Slow Food OKC, suggests, “The easiest thing is to grow vegetables that [children] like and then grow things that come up and out of the ground as quickly as possible. Lettuce and radishes come quick.”

Whether you are a green thumb or a novice with little space to spare, you can grow a garden with your kids and have fun doing it! Here are six easy steps for your family to get their garden growing:

• Plan. Choose a container or plot of space to grow your garden. Select the type of plants you want to grow.

• Shop, Swap and Borrow. Take a sample of your soil to a gardening center to determine if you need fertilizer or soil amendments. Buy some basic gardening tools, such as a shovel and spade, for you and kid-sized tools for your children, or borrow from a neighbor or friend.

• Prepare. Choose where you want to plant different seeds or seedlings. Consider leaving an empty patch of dirt for younger children to dig in, so your plants won't be damaged.

• Plant. Let your children get dirty and take ownership of the garden by participating in planting.

Be sure to follow the packet instructions for your seed or seedlings.

• Maintain. Water the plants, pull weeds and watch your garden grow.

• Enjoy. Harvest your crops, pick your flowers and enjoy!

For a more in-depth look at these steps or to find fun gardening projects, download The National Wildlife Federation’s guide Get Your Family’s Garden Growing at www.beoutthere.org/garden.

8

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

Plaza District Opens Little Free Library

In an effort to promote literacy and the love of reading, the Neighborhood Alliance of Central Oklahoma has teamed up with Little Free Libraries to help bring the program to local Oklahoma City communities. Little Free Libraries are small waterproof boxes, posted in various locations that contain take one/leave one libraries.

The Plaza District was recently selected to become a Neighborhood Library Steward of a Little Free Library. The initial stock of books will come from Barnes & Noble and guests will be able to take a book and replace it with a different book, creating a variety of available reading material as well as bringing something new to the neighborhood.

“Having a Little Free Library in the district will enable us to promote reading to our neighborhood, and add a functional piece of art to our streetscape,” explains Kristen Vails, Executive Director of the Plaza District Association. “We are excited to engage our neighbors and see the diversity of our neighborhood through the many different books that will flow in and out of our Little Free Library.”

After the initial stock of new books in the Little Library, Plaza District business owners will re-stock the library with books of their choosing. With each new month, the Plaza District will promote the content available to the community.

The Plaza District Little Free Library can be found on the southwest corner of NW 16th and Blackwelder. For more information, visit www.plazadistrict.org. To learn more about the Free Little Library program, visit www. thelittlefreelibrary.org.

Photo courtesy of the Plaza District Association.

Photo courtesy of ServeOK.org.

Find Ways to Help at ServeOK.org

In February 2007, a handful of Christian women formed Revive, Inc., a non-profit organization with the mission of transforming the Oklahoma City community by helping to meet the needs of the poor and the disadvantaged. By joining forces with compassionate care groups, the organization launched www.serveok.org to bring public awareness to the many volunteer opportunities in central Oklahoma.

The site includes an in-depth search tool allowing users to locate the type of service opportunity that they are seeking. Compassionate care groups can post their volunteer needs, individuals can find out where the needs are and churches can more strategically engage their mission both internally and externally. Information about needs for direct services to organizations (including transportation mentoring, tutoring, child care and more) and ways to provide goods (such as food, clothing and furniture) directly to those in need are also listed.

“ServeOK.org offers a much-needed way for individuals, churches, and groups to connect with the opportunities to serve the disadvantaged in central Oklahoma,” says Cynthia Huffmyer, President of Revive, Inc. “Plus, it provides community non-profits and churches efficient, economical comprehensive administrative support.”

For more information, call 405-509-5061 or visit www.serveok. org. Find a link to the ServeOK website and more family-friendly volunteer opportunities at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ volunteering-opportunities.

MetroFamily is a proud sponsor of ServeOK.org and the valuable work they do in our community.

Top 10 Reader Picks: Best Firework Displays in the Metro Nothing captures the spirit of Independence Day quite like fireworks—and the OKC metro boasts some outstanding festivals and fireworks displays. So, put on your red, white and blue, light some sparklers and get ready to “Ooh!” and “Ahh!” as you enjoy some patriotic fun with your family.

We recently polled our readers for their favorite fireworks displays, and here, in random order, are their recommendations:

• Celebration in the Heartland Festival in Moore (July 4, dusk; www.cityofmoore.com) • Freedom Fest 2013 in Yukon (July 3–4, www.cityofyukon.gov) • LibertyFest in Edmond (June 22–July 4, www.libertyfest.org) • Stars & Stripes River Festival (June 29, www.oklahomariverevents.org) • Red, White & Boom! at State Fair Park (July 3, www.okcphilharmonic.org) • Bethany Freedom Festival (July 4, www.cityofbethany.org) • Norman Day Festival (July 4, www.normanfun.com) • Chickasha Freedom Fireworks (July 4, www.chickashacalendar.com) • Fireworks Extravaganza in Bricktown (July 4, www.welcometobricktown.com) • Midwest City’s Tribute to Liberty (July 4, www.midwestcityok.org) Thanks to Stephanie R., Scarlett M., Sarah T., Sarah A., Jessi K., Heather S. and Cami H. for contributing to this list. Follow us at www.facebook.com/metrofamily to weigh in on next month’s list.

Have a fireworks display you’d like to suggest? Comment at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/top-10-fireworks-displays.

Find these and more patriotic events in our 2013 Independence Day Fun Guide at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/independence-dayfun.

Win a Gaylord Texan Getaway!

Dad deserves a getaway, doesn’t he? A short drive from the metro, the Gaylord Texan Resort overlooks Lake Grapevine and features almost five acres of indoor gardens and a riverwalk featuring entertainment, activities and restaurants.

The Gaylord Texan is a great getaway any time of year, but when the sun starts to crank up the heat in Oklahoma, the climate-controlled indoor gardens provide a wonderful respite from the heat. And summer at the Gaylord (May 24–September 2) means special SummerFest activites for the whole family. Indoor and outdoor options include free poolside sunrise yoga, an on-site Paradise Springs resort pool and lazy river complex, Friday night fireworks, pool parties, spa specials and the special DreamWorks Experience activities (additional fee and reservation required), that include character meet-and-greets, scavenger hunts, souvenir photos and more.

To learn more about SummerFest at the Gaylord Texan, call 817-778-2000 or visit www. gaylordtexan.com/summerfest. To win a Summertime Getaway to Gaylord Texan vacation package (an $800 value, includingtwo-night stay for up to four people with daily breakfast and applicable fees included), visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/gaylord-summer-giveaway before Sunday, June 30, 2013 to enter. Trip must be used by September 1, 2013.

Paradise Springs water park at Gaylord Texan Resort.

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

9

Child-Only Insurance Options

Open enrollment for child-only insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act begins June 1 and continues through July 31. During this time, children (ages 1–18) can be enrolled in a guaranteed issue child-only policy, regardless of any pre-existing health conditions or without a qualifying event. All child-only policies are guarantee-issue, meaning the insurance carrier cannot deny coverage unless the child has access to other creditable coverage, such as a parent’s plan through an employer. Although these policies are guarantee-issue, an insurance carrier can still charge a higher premium if a child has a pre-existing condition

To enroll your child, contact:

• CommunityCare: www.ccok.com or 918-594-5225 • Blue Cross Blue Shield: www.bcbsok.com or 866-303-2583 For child-only coverage for newborns, contact the Oklahoma High Risk Pool at www. bcbsok.com/ohrp or 877-885-3717

When open enrollment ends, special enrollment will be available for children 31 days after a qualifying event, including when they have lost coverage from another source.

The Oklahoma Consumer Assistance Program at the Oklahoma Insurance Department is available to help Oklahomans understand their options under the Affordable Care Act. For additional information call 800-522-0071, visit www.oid.ok.gov or email ombudsman@ oid.ok.gov.

Spotlight on Character: Discernment

A man must be big enough to admit his mistakes, smart enough to profit from them and strong enough to correct them.

— John C. Maxwell

Discernment is understanding the deeper reasons why things happen.

Discernment in the home includes understanding that selfishness can lead to the breakdown of relationships and that rebelliousness in children may come from unmet needs for parental approval and acceptance. The rewards of discernment are that, by gaining an understanding of the root causes of family crises and difficulties, families can use foresight to avoid wrong actions and attitudes in the future. Keen discernment helps families to focus on building good character and meeting the needs of each individual family member to bring peace and cooperation.

I will: ask questions • not judge hastily • learn from experience • not repeat mistakes • trace problems to their cause.

•

Read about discernment to bring the lesson home to your young children:

Bad Astrid (by Eileen Brennan and Regan Dunnick) reminds readers that sometimes a bad attitude isn’t all that it seems.

• What Will I Be? (by Nicola Davies and Marc Boutavant) challenges young readers to discern what’s under the flap by using just a few provided clues.

• Annie and Helen (by Deborah Hopkinson and Raul Colón) tells the story of Helen Keller and her teacher Annie Sullivan, and how they learned to understand and communicate with one another.

• It’s A Tiger! (by David LaRochelle and Jeremy Tankard) follows a young boy on an adventure of discovery through a jungle where he discovers that a tiger may not be all that it appears to be.

Courtesy of Character First, www.characterfirst.com.

10

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

Dan Adams, president and CEO of Cal Farley’s, and Felicia Kellett, Director of the Cal Farley’s Family Resource Center in Oklahoma City.

New Family Resource Center

Cal Farley’s is one of America’s largest privately-funded child and family service providers, specializing in residential and community-based services at no cost to families. The organization provides professional programs and services in a Christ-centered atmosphere to strengthen families and support the overall development of children.

Cal Farley’s newest Family Resource Center (FRC) is located in Oklahoma City (1900 NW Expressway, Suite 510). The goal of the FRC is to aid in family preservation by providing general casework services to families in the community. The new FRC will: assist families who lose financial support in locating and moving into alternative housing; coordinate services with various community resources to help families become self-sufficient again; assist families to avoid financial crisis situations by developing and following a budget; provide transportation to assist families in accessing community resources; offer financial assistance with rent and utilities to families in danger of becoming homeless; and provide coaching, mentoring and family support.

Oklahoma City’s FRC will be led by Felicia Kellett, who will work directly with children and families referred from other service providers and those who call the Information and Referral Line (800-657-7124) seeking help. The FRC will also host regular workshops for parents and youth, teaching self-responsibility and respect.

For more information on available resources and programs, call 405-608-0757 or visit www.calfarley.org.

Photo ourtesy of Cal Farley.

Celebrate Father’s Day With Books

Moms and Dads are not the same, there’s no denying that fact. But one thing they have in common is that we should celebrate them! To mark the occasion of Father’s Day, there are several books that offer advice, a few laughs and celebrate the general awesomeness of fathers.

Consider these titles for the dads in your lives:

I Call Shotgun (Thomas Nelson, $16) by Tommy Newberry and Curt Beavers is written as a series of letters from these fathers to their sons, offering advice to teach their sons to live in integrity and faith while overcoming negative obstacles.

Giddy-Up, Daddy!

(Random House, $17) by Troy Cummings is about two young kids who enjoy an incredible backyard adventure with their dad, who just happens to give the best horseyback rides ever. A fun book for Dad to read aloud.

Dad or Alive (Penguin, $15)

by Adrian Kulp is a humorous, sometimes explicitly-worded view on life from an accidental stayat-home dad. This one will keep both moms and dads laughing, groaning, thinking “me too!”

Father to Son and Father to Daughter (Workman, $9 each) by Harry H. Harrison Jr. are tiny books jampacked with big lessons for fathers of kids of all ages.

Great and timeless advice on being a father.

Farm to You

By Julie Dill

How does a glass of milk find its way to the table? That’s what students at Bryant Elementary in Moore recently investigated when the traveling interactive exhibit, Farm to You, visited their school.

Coordinated by the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service, Farm to You has educated approximately 85,000 students in 71 Oklahoma counties about the importance of nutrition awareness and the relationship between agriculture, food and health. Registered Dietician and Farm to You Coordinator Lisa Taylor says the program has a two-fold purpose: to teach kids where their food comes from and to encourage kids to eat healthy. Taylor says the response has been positive and schools have “really embraced the program.”

Fourth grader Greyson Kuepker learns about food groups.

Within the mobile exhibit, students learn about topics including the connection between farm and food, how to read food labels, why it’s important to eat a variety of food, why dental hygiene matters and much more. Volunteers explain how each food takes a different journey to get to mealtime, and students learn new vocabulary terms such as ‘pasteurization’ and ‘silos.’

Fourth grade teacher Kerri Stanfill found the program to be beneficial to her students. “They liked learning about the bones in the body and really loved the giant cheeseburger and learning that a cheeseburger included all the food groups.” Stanfill said.

Although there is no cost, schools must provide a 40' X 40' indoor space to accommodate the exhibit. Schools must also provide volunteers to aide in set-up and presentations. To take a virtual tour of the Farm to You traveling educational adventure, visit www.farmtoyou.okstate. edu/virtualtour.html.

For information about scheduling a Farm to You visit, contact your county’s Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service office. In Oklahoma County, call 405-713-1125 and in Cleveland County, call 405-321-4774/4935.

12

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

Product Road Test: The Grocer Overall Rating: HHHHI

Reusable grocery bags are a great invention, but even reusable bags don’t work forever. Bags can rip, flimsy handles can break and sometimes, these bags develop their own unique odor. ADK Packworks has developed The Grocer, a design based on the Adirondack packbasket, that includes a freestanding, foldable frame and convertible handles that can be carried or converted to a backpack-style and worn, leaving you hands-free. How did The Grocer stand up to our road test?

Durability: HHHHH Ripstop nylon and sturdy steel framing make this tote super durable, and it won’t tip over in the car.

The frame can be removed and the shell can be washed.

Versatility: HHHHI The design makes this bag great for carrying just about anything, from groceries to kids toys.

Available in three colors (red, green and grey).

Portability: HHHII It’s much bulkier than other reusable bags, but the strength and versatility make it worth the extra space.

Value: HHHHI Priced higher than other reusable bags at $25, the bag is worth the investment. A zippered cooler liner is available for $6.

Find more about The Grocer at www. adkpackworks.com. Want to win a Grocer bag and cooler insert for yourself? Visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/grocer and tell us how you’d use it!

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

13

Real

AD D Moms

of the Metro

Meet Bob Stoops: Head Football Coach and Father of Three

B

Photo by Shevaun Williams, www.shevaunwilliams.com

ob Stoops became the head football coach for the University of Oklahoma Sooners in 1999 when his daughter Mackenzie was just two and wife Carol was pregnant with their twin sons. In the 14 years since, Stoops has earned a reputation for being a family man, strong leader and community supporter, solidifying his spot in OU’s rich and storied football legacy.

Heading into his 15th season, Stoops is on pace to attain an historic milestone in 2013, being only nine wins away from surpassing legendary coach Barry Switzer for the most victories in Sooner football history.

Stoops has led the Sooners to 14 consecutive bowl berths and eight Big 12 titles, as well as winning 17 coach of the year awards—an accomplishment that only five coaches across the nation have topped. A proven leader, Stoops reached 100 victories faster than any coach in college football history and is preparing to enter his 30th professional year in coaching.

Growing up as the son of a coach himself, Stoops is familiar with the joys and obstacles of blending a high-profile coaching position with everyday family life. “I remember one time that I was coming back from recruiting, probably six or seven years ago, and I had been gone all week,” he recollects. “I had left my house keys at home, so I knocked on the door. My son Isaac was just five years old then, and he answers the door and yells back ‘Hey, everybody, Bob Stoops is here!’ I think that was the age where they figured out what I do for a living. It was funny to see my two personas combined—that of Bob Stoops, the coach, and Dad.” Here is more on how the Ohio-native balances the demands of coaching—and parenting—in the spotlight.

Quick Facts About Coach Stoops: 1. What are 3 words that describe you? Humble, respectful and intense.

2. What’s your favorite indulgence? Vanilla ice cream.

3. What’s your favorite getaway?

I love to take my wife to Chicago, her favorite city.

4. What’s your favorite TV show?

Seinfeld or Modern Family.

5. Coffee or tea? Coffee.

14

Coach Bob Stoops, wife Carol, daughter Mackenzie (age 16) and sons Drake and Isaac (age 13).

How do you balance the demands of being head coach at OU with being a father of three?

Like everybody, you do what you feel is comfortable. You concentrate on what you feel like you need to do at different times, different weeks, different days. You do the best you can and spend quality time when you are able.

What are the benefits and challenges of parenting in the public spotlight?

On occasion, we have to have patience with photos and autographs, but it really doesn’t happen all that much. We really go about our family life and our business like everybody does. I don’t feel like we are local celebrities at all.

What did you learn from your father that has impacted how you parent your kids?

I lost my dad when he was only 54. I learned from his example to allow your children to be part of whatever you are doing. I grew up with a father who was a coach, teacher and baseball player. I was allowed and invited to go wherever he was going. If he was playing baseball, I was the batboy. If he was coaching football, I was in locker room and on the field. I spent my Saturday mornings in gym while he was refereeing. All my coaching staff knows my children and their kids are welcome

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

to be part of what they are doing on any given day. It helps our children to feel connected to what we do as well.

Do you find that you sometimes have to use fathering skills in your coaching— and use your coaching skills in your parenting? How are being a coach and a dad similar or different?

There are lots of similarities. I see [my players] almost every day. I want to be that type of role model for my players and speak to them in a way that they know I care about them. I want to be a person that both my players and children can look up to and trust. As a parent, I am always trying to motivate and inspire my kids, so I find myself turning into a coach at home, too.

What’s the best advice you ever received about being a dad?

My wife said it best. Her mom told her that children at different ages can be challenging. But, no matter what the situation or what difficulties may come, love your kids no matter what. If you don’t, someone else will—and you don’t want the wrong person influencing them. Love them unconditionally, even in the trying times as they are growing. Be there for them and just love them.

How has fatherhood changed you? How has having twins affected your perspective on parenting?

I’ve become accustomed to sacrifices that come with parenting, it is just part of it. I have to give credit about raising the twins to my wife, Carol. She is with them daily and has had to work her way through all that, especially since I am away often. But I can say there is nothing like having two at the exact same age. One parent with two kids of the same age—it’s tough to play man-to-man defense when there are two kids. But, it’s a blessing, too.

Our hearts go out to the recent tornado victims in the area.

What do you like best about Oklahoma?

How do you feel about your kids growing up here?

I like the overall values of the state—the principles of hard work, good people and integrity. It’s just a great place for kids to grow up and to be involved in the community. It’s a wholesome atmosphere, where people are used to working for what they get.

When your children are adults, what do you want them to say about you?

That I was there for them, to help build them up and love them unconditionally.

If you could only give your children one piece of advice as they grow, what would it be?

I would advise them to carry humility to everything they do. I want them to know that nothing comes easily, that you have to work for everything you get. Enjoy the struggle and have great faith. It will take you a long way in life.

What’s the best part about being a dad?

Just being able to participate in my children’s life. There’s nothing like family and that family bond. I love being able to enjoy that and to be part of their lives every day.

Read more about Coach Stoops at www. bobstoops.com.

Brooke Barnett is the Assistant Editor of MetroFamily Magazine.

Have an awesome mom that you would like to see featured in our column? Email realmoms@metrofamilymagazine.com.

When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” ~ Fred Rogers

We encourage all of our MetroFamily readers to continue to find ways to help the victims and our communities as the needs will be great for weeks and months to come.

Proud to be Oklahomans, standing strong together. www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ways-to-help

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

15

Learning Adventures Family Activities for Creative Minds: Exploring Family Ancestry

H

uman beings have been tracking their family ancestry for millennia, tracing ancestry through cave markings, ancient scrolls, oral traditions and more.

More recently, technological advances such as online databases and DNA analysis have made this work easier—and exploring family ancestry is a great summer project for kids of all ages.

Building a family tree can be both enjoyable and informative. Use this opportunity to gain insight about the people you love, learn about history and better understand your inherited traits. You might also hear fascinating stories of immigration or even discover something mysterious. Are you ready to explore your family ancestry?

Start by interviewing Dad, Mom, grandparents, aunts and uncles to learn about your relatives. Record the names and relationships you discover. Figure out a way

to illustrate your list using something other than a tree, perhaps an image of something dad loves, like his fishing pole or an ice cream sundae (Dad could be the cherry on top!). Or you could use technology to capture your findings, perhaps by creating a word cloud in Wordle (www.wordle.net) of all the places that your relatives have lived.

However you decide to express yourself, it will make an amazing gift for Dad on Father’s Day. Then, display it in your home as a reflection of the connectedness and creativity in your family.

Did You Know?

There is debate about who possesses the longest family history on earth. Is it the Chinese philosopher and educator Confucius (551 BC–479 BC) whose family tree is said to span more than 80 generations and include more than two million members? Or, is it

Activity ideas provided by Oklahoma A+ Schools, the state’s only research-based whole school network with a mission of nurturing creativity in every learner. Learn more at www.okaplus.org.

16

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

the German educator who claims that DNA testing has allowed him and his cousin to trace their family back 120 generations? How many generations can you trace back with your family? Did you find any surprising information in your family tree?

This Learning Adventures project is sponsored by Primrose Schools and Green Bambino. Find more educational fun at www.metrofamilymagazine. com/learning-adventures.

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

17

Pawnee Bill’s Original Wild West Show Pawnee Bill’s Original Wild West Show at the Pawnee Bill Ranch site in Pawnee is one of the longest running, historically accurate shows of its kind and features performing cowboys & American Indians, chariot races, trick riders & musicians. The show will be held on June 15, 22 and 29 at 7:30pm. Enjoy a cast parade in downtown Pawnee at 4:00pm, as well as blacksmith demonstrations, gunfighters, a medicine show and musicians on the Ranch grounds preceding the show. Advance tickets are $12 for adults, $8 for ages 10 & under and free for ages 3 & below. For more information, call 918-762-2513 or visit www. pawneebillranch.com.

Photo courtesy of the Pawnee Bill Ranch Site

THROUGHOUT

JUNE

JUNE

25TH -29TH

JUNE 15TH, 22 ND & 29TH

JUNE 15TH

Chalk the Walk Families can pick up a piece of chalk and express their creativity at the second annual Chalk the Walk Festival on Saturday, June 15 from 10:00am–2:00pm. This fun-filled chalk art event will offer family-oriented activities and art competitions using chalk as the medium and pavement as the canvas. Benefiting Family Builders, the event will be held in the Plaza District on NW 16th St, between Classen and Penn. Free activities include live music, food and hands-on fun for the whole family. The sidewalk chalk contest is open to artists of all ages and experience levels and registration is $20 for individuals and $30 for families with children 12 & under. For more information or to register, visit www.familybuildersok.org or call 405-232-8226.

Photo courtesy of Family Builders.

Tarzan

Sunday Twilight Concerts

Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma presents Tarzan, based on Disney’s epic animated musical adventure, in an original production featuring heart-pumping music by rock legend Phil Collins. You’ll be wowed by high-flying excitement and hits like “You’ll Be in My Heart,” “Son of Man” and “Two Worlds.”

Performances will be held from June 25–29 at the Civic Center Music Hall (Tuesday through Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday and Saturday, 8:00pm and Saturday, 2:00pm.

Tickets begin at $35 and are available by calling 405-524-9312 or visiting www. lyrictheatreokc.com.

Photo by Keith Rinearson, courtesy of Lyric Theatre of Oklaoma.

The Arts Council of Oklahoma City’s Sunday Twilight Concert Series is back for its 33rd year.

Music enthusiasts can enjoy the free, familyfriendly festivities June 2–September 15. The lineup includes the Latin music of Alegria Real, the virtuoso guitarist Edgar Cruz, the rock music of the Hi-Def Howlers and more. Each week’s concerts are held from 7:30-9:00pm at the Band Shell on the Great Lawn at the Myriad Botanical Gardens. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs, and picnics; however, pets and glass containers are prohibited. For more information, visit www.artscouncilokc.com.

For other outdoor summer concerts in the OKC metro, visit www.metofamilymagazine.com/ outdoor-fun.

Photo courtesy of the Arts Council of OKC.

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

19

Daily Events June 1 • Saturday 3rd Annual Battle of the Burger at David Stanley Chevrolet of Norman features a burger grilling contest, activities & entertainment to benefit the OK Kid’s Korral. Noon-4pm. www.battleoftheburger.com.

Spring Girl Scout Day at Frontier City (11501 NE Expressway) welcomes all Girl Scouts & those interested in Girl Scouts. Call for ticket information.

528-4475, www.gswestok.org.

FREE Kids Workshops “Lawn Mower Pencil Holder” at Home Depot Stores features hands-on workshops for ages 5-12 on the first Saturday of each month. All kids receive apron, pin & certificate. 9amnoon. www.homedepot.com.

Willow in the Water at the Myriad Gardens Children’s Garden teaches how to root a willow & make a potted work of art. For ages 7-10. $5 members, $10 nonmembers. 10-11am. 445-7080, www. myriadgardens.org.

FREE Story Time with Oklahoma Author Deia Link Crull at Uptown Kids (5840 N Classen) features a reading of The Magic Hair Comb. 10:30am. 418-8881, www.uptownkidsstyle.com.

FREE Diaper Bazaar at Green Bambino (5120 N Shartel). Buy, sell, or trade used diapers. Cash only.

10am-noon. 848-2330, www.green-bambino.com.

Furry, Scaly, Slimy Saturday! at the Myriad Gardens allows children to discover creatures that run, jump, slither & fly. Features Jungle Jim Wild’s reptiles, amphibians & arthropods, animal crafts & more. See website for schedule. 10am-3pm. $5 members, $10 nonmembers. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org.

Pets in the Park at Mitzi’s Park (27 E Edwards, Edmond) benefits the Fine Arts Institute of Edmond with a pet parade, animal art contest, professional pet photos, pet art, pet adoptions & more. 11am-2pm.

340-4481, www.edmondfinearts.com.

FREE Crafts for Kids “High-Flying Skydiver” at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) for ages 3+. 11am3pm. 858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

Wines of the West at the Stockyards area (S Agnew & Exchange) showcases Made in Oklahoma wines & shopping with Made in Oklahoma vendors. $15/person.

Noon-4pm. 235-7267, www.stockyardscity.org.

FREE Spaghetti Eddie Concert at the Myriad Gardens Water Stage features children’s music from this family-friendly band. 2-3pm. 445-7080, www. myriadgardens.org.

La Soiree en Blanc at the Myriad Gardens Restaurant benefits Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park & features food, music, endless wine glass, silent auction & more. $30+. 7pm. 403-1750, www. oklahomashakespeare.com.

20

FREE Lyric Theatre Concert at the Myriad Gardens Great Lawn features a Summer Series Preview followed by a country-style concert by Julie Johnson.

7-8:30pm. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org.

FREE Movie in the Park at Little River Park in Moore screens Pixar’s A Bug’s Life. 8:15-10:30pm. 793-4332, www.cityofmoore.com/specialevents.

June 2 • Sunday FREE Plaza Sunday in the Plaza District on NW 16th Street features sidewalk chalk, crafts, art demonstrations, food trucks, live music & more. Held the first Sunday of each month. See website for schedule. www.plazadistrict.org.

30th Annual Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Telethon at the Children’s Atrium in the Children’s Hospital (1200 N Children’s) features a live, televised event that raises funds for pediatric research, education & clinical care. Includes the Miracle Mile of Quarters to benefit Oklahoma children with diabetes.

11am-5pm. www.okchf.org.

FREE Summer Share Fair & Summer Reading Teen Kick-Off at the Norman Library (225 N Webster, Norman) showcases community organizations that provide activities, camps, services & information for families. 1-2pm. 701-2600, www.pls.lib.ok.us.

benefits the Infant Parent Intervention Center. $130/ person or $520/team of 4. Shotgun start, 1pm. 602-3171, www.ipic-ok.com.

June 3–7 Eat My Dust! The Noise Guy at the Pioneer Library System Libraries features children’s author & comedian Charlie Williams. See website for schedule. www.pls. lib.ok.us.

FREE Neighborhood Arts Presents: Basically Bostick Projects-Can You Dig It? at the Metropolitan Library System libraries features storyteller Al Bostick as he presents performances that delight, teach & stimulate the mind, body & spirit.

See website for schedule. www.metrolibrary.org.

June 3–14 FREE Neighborhood Arts Presents: The Sugar Free Allstars at Metropolitan Library System libraries features the Grammy-winning children’s band. See website for schedule. www.metrolibrary.org.

June 3–28 FREE Safety Town at Sooner Mall (3301 W Main, Norman) educates ages 5-6 about bicycle, street & personal safety. Preregister. Monday-Friday, see website for schedule. 360-0341, www.soonermall.com.

“333” Mali’s Ancient Manuscripts at the Armstrong Auditorium features a film about the west African Islamic nation of Mali & how its ancient manuscripts serve as a roadmap for peace & conflict resolution. $25. 2pm. 285-1010, www.armstrongauditorium.org.

June 3 • Monday

FREE Trooper’s Troops Tortoises at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial) teaches guests about the tortoise world through a hands-on experience. 3-3:45pm. 755-0676, www.okc.gov/parks/ martin_park.index.html.

June 4 • Tuesday

FREE Luncheon on the Grass at Lions Park in Norman presented by the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, Firehouse Art Center, the Jacobson House & the Norman Arts Council features an afternoon of art activities, entertainment & dessert. Bring your own picnic meal. 4-6:30pm. 325-4938, www.ou.edu/fjjma.

FREE A Night of Disney at the Gate Church (7700 N Council) explores the world of Disney through song & dance. Mickey’s Street Party will be held after the performance with bounce houses, face painting, ice cream & character meet & greets. 5-8pm. 728-7700, www.thegatechurch.tv.

FREE Summer Breeze Concert: The Gourds at Lions Park in Norman. 7:30pm. 307-9320, www. pasnorman.org.

June 3 • Monday 4th Annual Birdies for Babies Golf Tournament at River Oaks Golf Club (10909 Clubhouse, Edmond)

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

Free Admission at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on the first Monday of each month. 325-4712, www.snomnh.ou.edu

Water Slide Inflatables at Bouncin Craze (14901 N Lincoln, Edmond) features an inflatable water slide outside & indoor inflatables. $15/child. 10am-8pm.

607-2020, www.bouncincraze.com. Also held 6/18.

FREE Monthly Mini Model Build at Penn Square Mall’s Lego Store features a new model on the first Tuesday of each month for ages 6-14. Quantities limited. 5pm. 840-9993, www.stores.lego.com.

FREE Supermodel Casting Call at the Outlet Shoppes at OKC (7624 W Reno) Food Court for ages 13-26. Winner receives a contract with Brink Model Management, shopping spree & the chance to appear in an ad. 6pm.

285-6150, www.theoutletshoppesatoklahomacity.com.

Also held: 6/29.

FREE Oklahoma Birth Network Doula Speed Dating at Green Bambino (5120 N Shartel). Learn how a doula supports mom & family during pregnancy, labor & birth, & meet local doulas. 6:30-8pm. 8482330, www.green-bambino.com.

June 5 • Wednesday Family Night –Paint Your Name at Paint Your Art Out (10 S Broadway, Edmond) allows families to create a masterpiece on canvas. Preregister online. $25. 7pm.

513-5333, www.paintyourartout.net.

June 6 • Thursday

Zoo Walk at the OKC Zoo (2101 NE 50) benefits the Children’s Hospital Foundation & includes Zoo admission. $5/person. 8am. www.okchf.org.

Stepping Out to Cure Scleroderma at Little River Park (700 SW 4, Moore) raises funds & awareness for research & education. $20/advance, $25/walk day.

8am. 213-9230, www.scleroderma.org.

Dive-In Movie at Pelican Bay (1034 S Bryant, Edmond) features themed activities, giveaways & movie. See website for movie titles. $5. 8pm. 216-7647, www.edmondok.com/pelicanbay. Also held: 6/20.

Mini Rock Garden at the Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno) allows ages 7-10 to create their own rock garden. Pot, soil, plants & stones provided. $10 members, $15 nonmember. 10-11am. 445-7080, www. myriadgardens.org.

June 6–9

FREE Ladybug Gift Market at Yukon Czech Hall (205 Czech Hall) features vendors, moon bounce & face painting to benefit Pets & People. 10am-4pm. 5173275, www.facebook.com/LadyBugGiftMarket.

UCO Endeavor Games at UCO, Edmond North High School & Lake Arcadia Outdoor Adventure Recreation Center is a multi-sport event for athletes with physical disabilities. 974-3160, www.ucoendeavorgames.com.

June 7 • Friday FREE Play in the Park at Buck Thomas Park in Moore features supervised summertime activities for children ages 6-14. Adult must accompany children.

Includes games, snacks, arts & crafts at a different City of Moore park each Friday in June. 9:30-10:30am. www.cityofmoore.com. Also held: 6/14 (Veteran’s Memorial Park), 6/21 (Kiwanis Park), 6/28 (Little River Park), 7/12 (Fairmoore Park).

Bright Night of Grossology at Science Museum Oklahoma (2100 NE 52) is an overnight museum experience that includes a Madagascar Hissing Cockroach Petting Zoo, Science Live!, Planetarium Show, IMAX film, gross & edible experiments, scavenger hunt & more. Preregister. $45/individual, $20/adult non-participant. $10 discount for SMO members/Military and/or State of Oklahoma employees. 6pm-8:15am. 602-3760, www. sciencemuseumok.org.

FREE Crafts for Kids “Under the Sea Porthole” at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) for ages 3+. 11am3pm. 858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

FREE Chasing James in concert at Green Bambino (5120 N Shartel) features family-friendly music. 11am.

848-2330, www.green-bambino.com.

Central Oklahoma Hemerocallis Society Daylily Show & Sale at Will Rogers Garden Center (3400 NW 36). 1-4pm. 550-7632.

FREE Open House at the American Organ Institute Shop at the University of Oklahoma (2101 W Tecumseh Suite C, Norman) invites the public to hear a 1500 pipe instrument, see how a pipe organ works & how it is restored in a come & go reception. 1-4pm. 325-7829, http://aoi.ou.edu.

June 10 • Monday 12th Annual Junior Achievement Classic at the Gailardia Country Club (5300 Gailardia) benefits Junior Achievement’s financial literacy programs for grades K-12. 11:30am. 235-3399, www.jaok.org.

OKC Redhawks vs. Iowa Cubs at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark (2 S Mickey Mantle). 7:05pm. 2181000, www.okcredhawks.com. Other home games this month: 6/11-17, 22-25.

June 10–11 FREE Healthy Kids Days at Panera Bread in Spring Creek Shopping Center (1472 S Bryant, Edmond) features interactive seminars, gifts for participating children, door prizes & recipes for parents. 2pm. 6271417. Also held: 6/12-14 at Panera (10600 S Penn)

June 10–14 FREE Neighborhood Arts Presents: Adam & Kizzie’s “Nursereedo” Rhymes at the Metropolitan Library System libraries features favorite childhood stories with music, dancing & cool gadgets. See website for schedule. www.metrolibrary.org.

FREE Don’t Daub Dirt! Dig into Reading at the Pioneer Library System libraries features Al Bostick’s rendition of an African folk tale about a dirt dauber that learns a lesson. See website for schedule. www. pls.lib.ok.us.

June 10–July 19

Beginners Basket Weaving Class at the Myriad Gardens teaches students ages 14+ how to build their own Gathering Basket to take home. Preregister. $35 members, $40 nonmembers. 1-4pm. 445-7080, www. myriadgardens.org.

FREE Play in the Park at parks in OKC provides supervised summertime activities for children 6+, including sports, crafts, educational games, performing arts & more. FREE breakfast & lunch availables at selected sites. See website for list of sites.

Monday-Friday, 8am-4pm. www.okc.gov.

June 7–8

June 8–9

June 11 • Tuesday

FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo Arts District features more than 60 artists in 17 galleries.

Friday, 6-10pm; Saturday, noon-5pm. 525-2688, www. thepaseo.com.

FREE Lowes Build & Grow Clinic “Monsters University Scarers” at participating Lowe’s Stores invites children to complete a wooden project with a parent/guardian. Participants receive a FREE apron, goggles, certificate & project patch.

Preregister. Saturday, 10-11am; Sunday, 2-3pm. www. lowesbuildandgrow.com.

The Music Man presented by ArtWorks Academy (3251 Market Place, Norman) features students in grades K-12. See website for schedule. 397-1824, www. artworksacademy.com. Also held 6/14-15.

June 8 • Saturday World Oceans Day at the Oklahoma Aquarium (300 Aquarium, Jenks) celebrates oceans with crafts & hands-on activities. See website for schedule. 918296-FISH, www.okaquarium.org.

World Oceans Day at the OKC Zoo (2101 NE 50) teaches guests about water conservation & ways to help protect wildlife. FREE with admission. 10am-2pm. 424-3344, www.okczoo.com.

FREE Kids All-American Fishing Derby at Spring Creek Park at Arcadia Lake features a fishing derby for ages 5-15. Bring fishing equipment. Concessions & worms available for purchase. Register by 9am.

7:30am-noon. 216-7471, www.arcadialakeok.com.

Ending June 9 FREE Art Interrupted: Advancing American Art & the Politics of Cultural Diplomacy Exhibit at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman) features an exhibition assembled in 1946 of modernist paintings highlighting the freedom of expression enjoyed by artists in the United States. 325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma.

June 9 • Sunday The healing Comforter at Northwest Library (5600 NW 122) features a lecture by international speaker and Christian Science teacher Mary Alice Rose. 2pm.

751-5903.

Storytime Science at Science Museum Oklahoma (2100 NE 52) features silly science stories with an SMO performer. FREE with admission. 10am & 2pm. 6026664, www.sciencemuseumok.org.

June 11–August 23 Laurie Frick: Walking, Eating, Sleeping Exhibition at Oklahoma Contemporary (3000 General Pershing) features intricately handbuilt works & installations. 951-0000, www. oklahomacontemporary.org. Opening Reception 6/11, 5:30-7:30pm.

June 12–16 Beauty & The Beast, Jr. at Poteet Theatre (222 NW 15) based on the classic Disney musical. $45.

Wednesday-Friday, 6pm & 8:30pm; Saturday, 10am, 1pm, 4pm & 8pm; Sunday, 2pm & 7pm. 609-1023, www.poteettheatre.com.

June 14 • Friday FREE Art a la Carte at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman) includes live music, films & art activity. 6:30-8:30pm. 325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma.

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

21

Weekly Events

FREE Discovery Room programs at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History (2401 Chautauqua, Norman). See website for details. 3254712, www.snomnh.ou.edu.

FREE Art Moves weekdays (Monday-Friday) in downtown OKC (various locations). Performances, demonstrations, short films & discussions. Noon1pm. 270-4892, www.artscouncilokc.com/artmoves.

FREE Wednesday Night at the Movies at the Downtown Library (300 Park). Held every Wednesday, 6-8pm. 231-8650.

FREE Diaper Bag Cinema at the Downtown Library (300 Park) baby-friendly movie venue.

See website for movie titles. Held every 1st & 3rd Thursday of the month. 11am-1pm. 231-8650, www. metrolibrary.org.

FREE Thursday Noon Tunes live concerts at the Downtown Library, 11:30-1pm. 231-8650, www. metrolibrary.org.

Passport to Imagination Craft Classes at participating Michaels stores features 2-hour themed classes for ages 5+ that meet three times weekly from June 17-August 2. See website for schedule. Preregister. $2. Monday, Wednesday & Friday, 10am-noon. www.michaels.com/passport.

Cocktails on the Skyline at the OKC Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) with full bar, complimentary chips & salsa & live music on the Roof Terrace.

See website for weather cancellations. FREE for members, $5 nonmembers. Thursdays, 5-9pm. 2363100, www.okcmoa.com.

Toddler Time playtime at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang). $2 or FREE with Town Center membership. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9am-noon.

376-3411, www.cityofmustang.org.

FREE Tween Creative Space at the Norman Library (225 Webster) provides a special space for students in grades 3-5 to meet, discuss books & create crafts. Call for more information. Thursdays, 6:30-7:30pm. 701-2600, www.pls.lib.ok.us.

Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse at Cinemark Tinseltown (6001 N Martin Luther King) features kid-friendly movies on Tuesdays from June 4-August 6. See website for titles. 9:30am. 424-0461, www.cinemark.com.

FREE Sooner Mall Outreach Storytime is an interactive story time offered by the Norman Public Library in Norman’s Sooner Mall for ages 9 & under.

Tuesdays, 10am. 701-2600, www.pls.lib.ok.us.

Summer Kids Movie Series 2013 at the Warren Theatres (1000 Telephone, Moore) features a different kid-friendly movie each week. See website for titles. $2/person per movie, $15 for all. Tuesdays & Thursdays through August 1, 10am. 735-9676, www. warrentheatres.com.

Wild Tuesdays Story Time Safari at the OKC Zoo (2101 NE 50) features stories & Zookeeper chats.

Tuesdays in June & July, 9:30am & 10:30am. 4243344, www.okczoo.com.

FREE Art Adventures at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman) includes handson art fun for children ages 3-5 with adult. Tuesdays, 10:30am. 325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma.

Reading Rainforest in the Crystal Bridge at the Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno) features storytime, a short hike & craft for ages 3-5. FREE with admission. Wednesdays, 10-11am. 445-7079, www. myriadgardens.org.

Okietales at the Oklahoma History Center (800 Nazih Zuhdi) explores Oklahoma’s past through reading & storytelling for ages 5-9. Preregister. $2/ child, includes museum admission. Wednesdays through July, 10-11am. 522-0765, www.okhistory. org.

FREE Wacky Wednesdays at Jackie Cooper Gym (1024 E Main, Yukon) offers a fun activity each week including sports activities, fishing & more.

Wednesdays through July 24, 10am-noon. 350-8920, www.cityofyukonok.gov.

22

FREE Outdoor Summer Concerts at Hafer Park in Edmond feature a variety of musical styles in an outdoor setting. See website for schedule.

Thursdays in June & July (except July 4), 6:308:45pm. www.edmondok.com.

FREE Concerts in the Park at Chisholm Trail Park (500 W Vandament, Yukon). See website for schedule. Concessions available. Thursdays through August 8, 7-8:30pm. www.cityofyukonok.gov.

Train Rides at the Oklahoma Railway Museum (3400 NE Grand) depart from the Oakwood Depot at the Museum throughout the day every 1st & 3rd Saturday through August. $12 adults, $5 children ages 3-12, children under 3 FREE. 10am, 11am, noon, 1:30pm, 2:30pm. 424-8222, www. oklahomarailwaymuseum.org/train-rides.

FREE Children’s Storytime at Full Circle Bookstore (1900 NW Expressway) each Saturday, 10:15am. 8422900, www.fullcirclebooks.com.

FREE Children’s Story Time at Edmond’s Best of Books, Saturdays, 11am. 340-9202, www. bestofbooksedmond.com.

FREE Skating Lessons at Skate Galaxy (5800 NW 36) for all skill levels. Saturdays, noon-12:45pm. 6052758, www.skategalaxyokc.com.

Drop in Art at the OKC Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features hands-on art activities for all ages.

FREE with paid admission. See website for themes/ activities Saturdays, 1-4pm. 236-3100, www. okcmoa.com.

All-Star Bowling for Differently-Abled Individuals at AMF Yukon Lanes (500 E Main). $8/ week includes 3 games & shoes. Saturdays, 1pm.

Email dbrakefield@yahoo.com to verify schedule.

354-2516.

FREE Green Earth Gang for ages 9-13 works on conservation projects at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial). Saturdays, 2-5pm. 755-0676, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park.

FREE Summer Concerts in the Park at Joe B. Barnes Regional Park in Midwest City each Thursday in June & July. See website for schedule. 7pm. 7391293, www.midwestcityok.org.

Western Waters Cruise on the Oklahoma River departs from Meridian landing and features appetizers , cash bar & country music. Reservations required. Ages 21+. $29 . Saturdays in June, 7:30pm.

702-7755, www.okrivercruises.com.

FREE Rhythm Babies at the Norman Library (225 Webster) features music & stories for children birth to age 3 with a parent or caregiver. Fridays, 10am.

701-2600, www.pls.lib.ok.us.

FREE Green Earth Rangers at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial) for teens ages 13-18 to assist the park with complex, leadership-driven conservation efforts. Sundays, call for times. 7550676, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park.

FREE Norman Library Music Connection features music & stories for ages 3-7 with a parent or caregiver. Fridays, 11am. 701-2600, www.pls.lib. ok.us.

FREE Summer Nights Concert Series at Buck Thomas Park (1901 NE 12, Moore). See website for schedule. Fridays in June, 7pm. www.cityofmoore.com.

FREE Lower Bricktown Live outdoor concerts. See website for schedule. Fridays, June 14-August 16, 8-10pm. www.lowerbricktown.com.

Dive-In Movies at White Water Bay (3908 W Reno) screens an outdoor movie at dusk. See website for titles. FREE with park admission. Fridays, June 21-August 2. 943-9687, www.whitewaterbay.com.

Clothing Closet Sale at Christ Church (1006 NE 17) offers adult clothing beginning at $1 & children’s clothing costing $0.25-$0.50. Open the 2nd & 4th Saturdays of each month. 9am-1pm. 424-2800, www. christchurchokc.org.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

Shakespeare on the River Cruises depart from Regatta Park & Exchange Landings & feature “William Shakespeare” telling passengers about his relationship with the Thames River & the Globe Theatre. On-board concessions available, regular fare applies. Sundays in June & July, 12:30pm & 1:10pm. 702-7755, www.okrivercruises.com.

FREE Sunday Twilight Concert Series at the Myriad Gardens are family-friendly outdoor concerts.

See website for schedule. Sundays through August, 7:30-9pm. www.artscouncilokc.com.

For more fun local events, check our online calendar at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/Calendar/.

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

23

ght i N e t a D Ideas

FREE Norman’s 2nd Friday Circuit of Art is a monthly celebration of the arts connecting the downtown arts district with galleries, performance halls, & Campus Corner. Trolley service between venues available at minimal cost. 6-10pm. 360-1162, www.2ndfridaynorman.com.

FREE LIVE on the Plaza in the Plaza District (NW 16th between Classen & Penn) on the second Friday of each month includes art walk, local artists, live music & shopping. 7-11pm. www.plazadistrict.org.

June 14–23 Fridays in June Sunset Cruises for ages 21+ depart from Regatta Park Landing & feature music, appetizers & a cash bar. Preregister. $29/person. Fridays through September, 7:30pm. 702-7755, www. okrivercruises.com.

Playhouse Parade 2013 at Penn Square Mall (1901 NW Expressway) features custom-built playhouses designed by local businesses & architects. Purchase tickets for a chance to win. Proceeds help CASA of Oklahoma County. $5/ticket, $20/five tickets. 10am6pm. 713-6612, www.okcountycasa.org.

June 14–15

Measure for Measure presented by Oklahoma Shakespeare at the Myriad Gardens Water Stage features Shakespeare’s examination of the value of virtue. $15. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm. 403-1750, www.oklahomashakespeare.com.

FREE Fearless Families, Fearless Fathers & Fearless Faith at Tabitha Baptist Church (1219 N Grand) features 2 stand-alone sessions that encourage & educate teens, parents & fathers on how to have effective relationships & stronger families. Preregister.

Friday (men, women & teens), 7pm-9pm; Saturday (men only), 9am. 388-8037, www.fearlessfathers.org/ fearless-registration.

June 20–22

June 14–16

June 6–22

Parade the Musical at the Mitch Park Amphitheatre presents the story of a Brooklynraised Jew living in Georgia on trial for murder.

Parental discretion advised. $16. 8pm. 285-5803, www.upstagetheatreok.com. Also held: 6/27-29.

June 21 • Friday Zoobilation at the OKC Zoo (2101 NE 50) for ages 21+ benefits the Joan Kirkpatrick Animal Hospital & features food, specialty drinks, silent auction & live music. For ages 21+. $100. 7-11pm. 425-0612, www.zoofriends.org.

June 22 Cowboy Cantina at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63) offers drinks, conversation, live music & an after-hours museum experience for adults 21+. FREE for members, $5 nonmembers. 5-8pm. 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org.

Full Moon Bike Ride at the Myriad Gardens features a full moon route through downtown OKC, the river trail & other routes. Rides last approximately an hour. Helmets & lights required. $5 suggested donation. 10-11pm. 445-7080, www. myriadgardens.org.

June 27–July 13 Ring Round the Moon presented by Oklahoma Shakespeare at the Myriad Gardens Water Stage features a tale of mistaken identities & misguided love affairs with unexpectedly happy results. $15. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm. 403-1750, www. oklahomashakespeare.com.

24

The Sound of Music presented by Summerstock at UCO’s Mitchell Hall Theater in Edmond. $20 adults, $15 seniors & students. 974-3375, www.summerstockok. com. Also held 6/21-23.

Daddy Daughter Dance at the Moore Community Center (301 S Howard, Moore) for dads & daughters ages 4-14 includes an Aloha Dance (250 attendees) from 5-6:30pm & a Luau Dance (unlimited) from 7:30-9pm. Advance tickets available at Moore City Hall or the Moore Community Center. $5/person. 5-9pm.

793-4332, www.cityofmoore.com.

Are We There Yet? OK City Hits the Road at the Reynolds Performing Arts Center (560 Parrington Oval, Norman) features the OK City Chorus & several quartets & small groups singing 4-part a capella harmonies. $15 advance, $20 at door. 7pm. 720-7464, www.okcity.org.

June 15–August 23 FREE Laurie Frick: Walking, Eating, Sleeping at Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center (3000 General Pershing) draws from neuroscience as the artist adopts a daily regimen of self-tracking that measures her activities and body. 951-0000, www. oklahomacontemporary.org.

June 16 • Sunday FREE Admission for Dads at the following venues (Please contact chosen venue as offers vary): • OKC Zoo, 9am-5pm (424-3344, www.okczoo. com) • National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 10am-5pm (478-2250, www. nationalcowboymuseum.org) • Oklahoma Aquarium, 10am-6pm (918-2963474, www.okaquarium.org)

June 15 • Saturday

• Myriad Gardens Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory, 11am-7pm (445-7080, www. myriadgardens.org)

FARE Walk for Food Allergy at Stars & Stripes Park (3701 S Lake Hefner) helps fund food allergy research, education, advocacy & awareness. 8am. www. foodallergywalk.org.

• Science Museum Oklahoma (with the donation of a new children’s book for the Boys & Girls Club), 11am-6pm (602-6664, www. sciencemuseumok.org)

FREE Iron Man at the Outlet Shoppes at OKC (7624 W Reno). Meet Iron Man & tell why your dad is a superhero for a chance to win a Father’s Day prize pack. 10am-2pm. 787-3700, www. theoutletshoppesatoklahomacity.com.

• Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, Noon-6pm (235-3313, www. oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org)

Chalk the Walk Festival in the Plaza District (NW 16 between Classen & Penn) features live music, food & hands-on activities for the whole family. Sidewalk chalk contest open to all ages & winners picked by local celebrity judges. Proceeds benefit Family Builders. FREE admission, $20/sidewalk square, $30 for families with children under 12. Preregister. 10am2pm. 232-8226, www.familybuildersok.org.

Behind-the-Scenes Tours at the Oklahoma Aquarium (300 Aquarium, Jenks) feature a tour of the sea turtle holding facility and the Siegfried Families Shark Adventure. Tour includes stairs; wheelchairs & strollers can’t be accommodated. Ages 5+. Tickets available at admission gate on a first-come, firstserved basis. $10 adults, $8 youth, plus admission.

10:30am, 11:30am & 1:30pm. 918-296-FISH, www. okaquarium.org.

FREE Crafts for Kids “Father’s Day Tie” at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) for ages 3+. 11am3pm. 858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

• Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art, 1-4pm (8785300, www.mgmoa.org) • Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, 1-5pm (325-4712, www.snomnh. ou.edu) Father’s Day Special at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63) offers FREE admission for Dads (with a paid admission) and Father’s Day lunch in the Museum’s Dining on Persimmon Hill Restaurant. 10am-5pm. 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org.

FREE Summer Breeze Concert: Parker Millsap & Band at Lions Park in Norman. 7:30pm. 307-9320, www.pasnorman.org.

Happy Father’s Day from MetroFamily!

June 17 • Monday

June 22 • Saturday

FREE Minute to Win It Tournament at the SOKC Library (2201 SW 134) features easy, fast-paced games for ages 10-18. Preregister. 2-5pm. 979-2200, www.pls. lib.ok.us.

FREE Great American Backyard Campout sponsored by the National Wildlife Federation encourages families to get outside & connect with the natural world. See website for recipes, wildlife guides, games & activities. www.backyardcampout.org.

June 17–21 FREE Dive In Dig It with Stephen Fite in Concert at the Pioneer Library System libraries features music & movement with rhythm, repetition & rhyme. See website for schedule. www.pls.lib.ok.us.

June 17–28 FREE Neighborhood Arts Presents: OKC ImprovUnderground at the Metropolitan Library System libraries features original & interactive games & scenes using audience suggestions & participation.

See website for schedule. www.metrolibrary.org.

FREE Neighborhood Arts Presents: Rhythmically Speaking-Sebatian the Digger Dog at Metropolitan Library System libraries. See website for schedule. www.metrolibrary.org.

June 18 • Tuesday FREE Toddler Tuesday at Chapel Hill United Methodist Church (2717 W Hefner) includes planned activities for babies, toddlers or preschoolers with caregivers every third Tuesday of the month. 10am. 751-0755, www.facebook.com/ ToddlerTuesdayCHUMC. .

FREE Babywearing 101 at Babies R Us (1731 Belle Isle). teaches about different kinds of baby carriers & how to use them. 6pm. 840-2820, www. babywearingdoula.com.

June 19–23 OKC Summer Classic Dog Show 2013 at the Cox Convention Center. Time TBA. $7 adults, $2 children 12+, children under 12 FREE. www.oksummerclassic.com.

Robyn Hood presented by the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre (2501 N Blackwelder) features a twist on the classic Robin Hood story with a heroine as the lead character. $10 adults, $7 ages 2-12. Wednesday-Friday, 10am & noon, Saturday-Sunday, 2pm. 951-0011, www. oklahomachildrenstheatre.org.

June 20 • Thursday

Tarzan at the Civic Center Music Hall is based on Disney’s epic animated musical adventure. $35+.

Tuesday-Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm & 8pm. 524-9312, www.lyrictheatreokc.com.

June 26–30

Insects in the Garden at the Myriad Gardens Children’s Garden (301 W Reno) for ages 7-10 investigates the insects living in the Children’s Garden.

FREE for members, $3/nonmembers. 10-11am. 4457080, www.myriadgardens.org.

Seussical the Musical at the Sooner Theatre (101 E Main, Norman) features favorite Seuss characters in a heartwarming musical. Wednesday, 7pm; ThursdaySaturday, 2pm & 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm. 321-9600, www.soonertheatre.org.

FREE Crafts for Kids “Welcome, Summer! Door Hanger” at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) for ages 3+. 11am-3pm. 858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

June 27 • Thursday

KickingBird Golf Family Fun Night (1600 E Danforth, Edmond) features 9-holes with special junior tees, FREE putting course, $2 range tokens & food discounts. Call in advance for a tee time. $7 green fees, $7 carts. 5pm.

341-5350, www.edmondok.com.

June 22–23 FREE Lowes Build & Grow Clinic “Monsters University Chest” at participating Lowe’s Stores invites children to complete a wooden project with a parent/guardian. Participants receive a FREE apron, goggles, certificate & project patch.

Preregister. Saturday, 10-11am; Sunday, 2-3pm. www. lowesbuildandgrow.com.

June 22–29 2013 National Reining Horse Association Derby Show at State Fair Park. See website for schedule. www.nrhaderby.com.

June 23 • Sunday

Ladies Night Out at Be Wild for Art (209 24th Ave NW, Norman) is an evening of painting with a discounted studio fee held on the last Thursday of each month. $4 studio fee, plus item cost. 6-9pm. 3079971, www.bewildforart.com.

Cirque Musica at the Enid Event Center (301 S Independence, Enid) features a blend of circus performers & music including classical & POPS. 7:30pm. 855-849-3643, www.enideventcenter.com.

June 28 • Friday FREE Art After Hours at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman). Get acquainted with works from the exhibit Art Interrupted: Advancing American Art & the Politics of Cultural Diplomacy in a 45-minute discussion. 6pm. 325-4938, www.ou.edu/fjjma.

Sleep with the Sharks at the Oklahoma Aquarium (300 Aquarium, Jenks) is an overnight sleepover that includes a dive show, scavenger hunt, flashlight tour & movie. $45/person nonmembers, $35/ person members. 7pm-8am. 918-296-FISH, www. okaquarium.org.

Gary Allan in Concert at the Enid Event Center (301 S Independence, Enid) features special guest Logan Mize. $32+. 7pm. 855-849-3643, www. enideventcenter.com.

H&8th Night Market at Hudson & 8th in Midtown OKC features food trucks & live music every last Friday of the month through September. 7pm-2am. www. h8thokc.com.

June 24 • Monday

June 29 • Saturday

Boomer Sooner Golf Tournament at Coffee Creek Golf Club (4000 N Kelly, Edmond) benefits the Children’s Hospital Foundation. Prizes for 1st-3rd place teams & more. $600/4-person team. 8am. www.okchf.org.

FREE Cellist Erin Yeaman at the Norman Library (225 N Webster) blends music & books to bring stories to life. 2pm & 7pm. 701-2630, www.pls.lib.ok.us.

June 21–22

June 25 • Tuesday

June 25–29

14th Annual Okie Noodling Festival at Waker Park in Pauls Valley features the world’s largest noodling contest, demonstrations, catfish eating contest & more.

See website for schedule. www.paulsvalley.com.

Splendor in the Gardens 25th Anniversary Gala at the Myriad Gardens celebrates the Gardens’ first 25 years with a VIP champagne reception, a farm-totable dinner & after party. $125+. 6:30pm. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org.

Single Moms’ Survive ‘N’ Thrive 2013 at Crossings Community Church (14600 N Portland) features Wanda Pratt (single mother of OKC Thunder player Kevin Durant), breakout sessions & more. Register by 6/14. $25, $5/family for childcare. 812-5137, www. singlemomsconference.org.

restraints & how to fit a child correctly into a car seat.

6pm. 840-2820, www.redbudbabyplanners.com.

FREE Admission to the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory in celebration of the 25-year anniversary of the opening of the Myriad Botanical Gardens. www.myriadgardens.org.

FREE Buckle Up & Boogie Car Seat Safety Demonstration at Babies R Us (1731 Belle Isle). teaches parents about the different kinds of child

All Things Vanilla at the Myriad Gardens Children’s Garden (301 W Reno) teaches ages 7-10 about the Vanilla Orchid & gives them an opportunity to sculpt with vanilla play dough, dissect a vanilla bean & make a vanilla sundae. 10-11am. $5/members, $10/ nonmembers. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org.

FREE Storytime with Rapunzel at Uptown Kids (5840 N Classen). 10:30am. 418-8881, www. uptownkidsstyle.com.

FREE Crafts for Kids “Fourth of July Noisemaker” at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) for ages 3+.

11am-3pm. 858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

Paddle for the Cure on the Oklahoma River features dragon boat races & benefits Susan G. Komen of Central & Western Oklahoma. $650/team. www. komencentralwesternok.org.

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

25

Photography Workshop at the Myriad Gardens teaches experienced & new photographers the secrets of getting the perfect shot. Bring camera. $25 members, $35 nonmembers. 1-4pm. 445-7080, www. myriadgardens.com.

The Package Tour featuring New Kids on the Block, 98 Degrees & Boyz II Men at the Chesapeake Energy Arena. $29.50+. 7:30pm. www.chesapeakearena.com.

June 30 • Sunday Big Time Rush & Victoria Justice at the Chesapeake Energy Arena. $28+ plus fees. 7pm. www. chesapeakearena.com.

July 1 • Monday OKC Redhawks vs. Albuquerque Isotopes at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark (2 S Mickey Mantle).

7:05pm. 218-1000, www.okcredhawks.com. Other home games this month: 7/2-3, 11-14, 26-31.

July 1–5 FREE Neighborhood Arts Presents: Monty Harper–Dig Into Reading at the Metropolitan Library System Libraries features a sing-along concert for the whole family. See website for schedule. www. metrolibrary.org.

July 1–12 FREE Neighborhood Arts Presents: Reduxion Theatre–Classics for Kids at the Metropolitan Library System Libraries features a lighthearted romp

26

through Shakespeare with Professor Spillsby, for ages 6 months-12 years. See website for schedule. www. metrolibrary.org.

FREE Summer Breeze Concert: Mike Hosty Duo at Lions Park in Norman. 7:30pm. 307-9320, www. pasnorman.org.

July 2 • Tuesday

July 9–13

Justin Bieber in concert at the Chesapeake Energy Arena. 7pm. www.chesapeakearena.com.

July 5 • Friday

*

Beyoncé in concert at Chesapeake Energy Arena. See website for details. 8pm. www.chesapeakearena.com.

July 6 • Saturday

FREE Kids Workshops “Despicable Me 2 Surprise Craft” at Home Depot Stores features hands-on workshops for children ages 5-12 on the first Saturday of each month. All kids receive apron, commemorative pin & certificate. 9am-noon. www.homedepot.com.

FREE 3rd Annual Children’s Festival at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper Memorial, Sulphur) features a stomp dance, storytelling, horticulture exhibits, arts & crafts & games. 10am5pm. 580-622-7130, www.chickasawculturalcenter. com.

July 7 • Sunday

FREE Plaza Sunday in the Plaza District on NW 16th Street features sidewalk chalk, crafts, art demonstrations, food trucks, live music & more. Held the first Sunday of each month. See website for schedule. www.plazadistrict.org.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

The King & I at the Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker). $35+. Tuesday-Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm & 8pm. 524-9312, www. lyrictheatreokc.com.

**

For more summer events and activities, including our summer survival guide, go to www. metrofamilymagazine.com/ summer

Ongoing Events Through June 16 FREE And I Too Love the Light Exhibit at the State Capitol North Gallery features photographs by Tulsa photographer Sam Joyner. Weekdays, 8am-6pm; Weekends, 9am-4pm. www.arts.ok.gov.

Ernest Oberholzer’s Photographs of the Rainy Lake Ojibwe at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art (1900 W MacArthur, Shawnee). 878-5300, www. mgmoa.org.

Through June 23 FREE A Printmaker’s Perspective: A Life Told in Layers Exhibit at the State Capitol East Gallery features artwork by Ginna Dowling. Weekdays, 8am6pm; Weekends, 9am-4pm. www.arts.ok.gov.

June 28–September 15 FREE Exhibition: Hopituy Kachinas from the Permanent Collections at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman) features six types of Hopi kachina figures as depicted in more than 175 objects.

325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma.

Through June 30 FREE Pablo Picasso’s Woman in the Studio at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman). 3253272, www.ou.edu/fjjma.

FREE Wanderings Exhibit at the State Capitol Governor’s Gallery features works in acrylic paint & mixed media by Janice Matthews-Gordon. Weekdays, 8:30am-5pm. www.arts.ok.gov.

Through July 28 FREE Into the Void Exhibition at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman) features a sensory experience that encompasses the entire optical spectrum. 325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma.

FREE Exhibition: Stirring the Fire–A Global Movement to Empower Women & Girls at the

Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman). 3253272, www.ou.edu/fjjma.

Herb Ritts: Beauty & Celebrity at the OKC Museum of Art (415 Couch) features over 80 largescale, black & white photos. 236-3100, okcmoa.com.

Through August 2 Soundscapes at Science Museum Oklahoma (2100 NE 52) features the sculptural work of 11 artists based on the distinct relationship between the visual & aural domains. 602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok.org.

Through August 9 Summer Movie Fun at Harkins Bricktown 16 (150 E Reno) offers 10 family-friendly movies over 10 weeks for $5 total. www.harkinstheatres.com/smf.

Through September 1 FREE Admission at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art (1900 W MacArthur, Shawnee) through Labor Day weekend. 878-5300, www.mgmoa.org.

Through September 1 FREE Blue Star Museums offers FREE admission at participating museums to all active duty military personnel & families. www.nea.gov/national/ bluestarmuseums/index2013.php.

Through September 8 Beautiful Beasts: The Unseen Life of Oklahoma Spiders & Insects at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History presents a series of largescale color photographs taken by Thomas Shahan.

325-4712, www.snomnh.ou.edu.

Through December 31 Reigns Supreme: The Little Black Dress at the Oklahoma History Center (800 Nazih Zuhdi). 522-0765, www.oklahomahistorycenter.org.

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

27

Exploring Oklahoma’s Agritourism The Pick of “U-Pick-Em” Farms

R

esearch has shown that kids who are introduced to fruits and vegetables at an early age are more likely to eat them as an adult—reducing their risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity and other medical conditions. Agriculture-based activities, such as “u-pick-em” farms, can help make fruits and vegetables more exciting. It’s then easy to continue the learning in the kitchen.

“Picking food for themselves helps kids better understand where their food comes from,” explains Amanda Horn, Registered Dietitian and Family and Consumer Sciences Educator for the OSU Extension Service in Oklahoma County. “The kids can actually tour the farms and often they get to see the different stages of planting and harvesting the produce.

This is an educational experience that many kids don’t get at school.”

And picking their own produce can have a beneficial effect on picky eaters as well. “If the kid can see where and how the food is produced they are more willing to taste it,” Horn continues. “Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables ensures they are getting the vitamins and nutrients they need to grow. Plus, seasonal produce is more flavorful and contains more nutrients than processed foods.”

Since many children haven’t seen or been on an operational farm, an agriculatural-based outing allows them to experience a fun and active way to discover new food—and have fun at the same time.

Owasso Tree and Berry Farm

Looking for a great place to pick your own blueberries and blackberries in Green Country? Head to Owasso Tree and Berry Farm. Opened by Bill and Paula Jacobs in 1981, the farm expanded into blackberries 20 years ago and blueberries two years ago.

Each year the farm opens for families to come and pick their own berries, usually around the first of June (though it will be a little later this year due to our unseasonably cold spring).

Arrive at the farm with yourself and your wallet—containers and packaging are provided. Blackberry picking is made easy by the rotating trellis system used at the farm. The portable trellises are a way for the farmers to move the plants to protect them from harsh cold or sun, which makes for better berries. This also causes the berries to grow on one side of the plant, making picking faster and easier. A plus for families with young children are the thornless variety to protect from unnecessary boo-boos.

28

Owasso Tree and Berry Farm is open for picking on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:00am–noon and Saturdays from 7:00am–4:00pm. If planning to arrive later in the day, it’s advised that you call ahead to ensure the type of berries you’d like to pick are available, as berries are picked all day.

The farm also sells pre-picked berries (for a slightly higher cost) and locally-produced honey. Visit their website to join the email list and receive updates on the growing season, or to learn about plant sales if you are interested in growing your own.

Once you arrive in Tulsa via I-44 (Turner Turnpike), the Owasso Tree and Berry Farm is just a quick drive north on Highway 169 to the 106th St North exit. Take a left at the stop sign, then a right on North 129th E Ave, and the farm will be on your right.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

Spencer’s Orchard and Greenhouses

Spencer’s Orchard and Greenhouses in Harrah carries a large variety of plants and produce and is just a short drive from most places in the metro. Head east on Northeast 23rd Street, then go two miles north on Triple X Road and one mile east on Northeast 50th. Turn north onto Peebly Road and you will find Spencer’s on the east side of the road.

Started in 1960, Spencer’s Orchard and Greenhouses is the only family-owned orchard in Harrah. Over the years, owner James Spencer has changed some of the variety grown on-site, but they still sell delicious freestone peaches each summer, along with other produce.

If you’d like to pick your own peaches at Spencer’s, containers are provided so you don’t have to bring anything special. The orchard is open from 8:00am–4:30pm Monday–Saturday, but you may want to call ahead to see what is available, especially if you are planning to visit later in the afternoon.

If you’re not up for picking your own but you’d still like fresh, home-grown fruits and veggies, Spencer’s offers a variety of items for sale. Depending on the season, you can find okra, watermelons, tomatoes, peppers, and other yummy items ready for you to take home. They also sell honey from the bees that pollinate their squash, cucumbers and watermelons.

To find the latest information from Spencer’s, visit their Facebook page for updates and recipes. Visit them soon and add some delicious and healthy Oklahoma fruits and veggies to your plate!

For more information or to locate other “u-pick-em” farms in Oklahoma, visit www. traveler.oklahomaagritourism.com (look for the “upick” icon).

Photos courtesy of Oklahoma Agritourism.

Jennifer Geary is a homeschooling mom from Broken Arrow, formerly of OKC, who loves to have adventures with her family.

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

29

Pick Your Own Produce & Berry Farms: Owasso Tree and Berry Farm 11039 N 129th E Ave, Owasso 918-272-9445 www.owassotreefarm.com Spencer’s Orchard and Greenhouses 5528 N Peebly Road, Harrah 405-454-3471, 405-550-3801 www.facebook.com/ spencersorchard Carrie’s Berries 13841 N 364 Road, Holdenville.

Open June through September, 405-941-4142, 405-941-3929 Sorghum Mill Christmas Tree & Blackberry Farm 7121 Midwest Lane, Edmond Early June to mid-July, 405-340-5488

30

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

31

Exploring Oklahoma’s State Parks Southeastern Oklahoma: Beavers Bend Editor’s note: This is the second of a four-part series providing guides to amazing Oklahoma parks. We continue our tour with a trip to the beautiful Beavers Bend Resort Park in southeastern Oklahoma, featuring mountains, hardwood forests and plenty of outdoor adventures. Find more at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/exploring-oklahoma.

If you’re looking for adventure in southeastern Oklahoma, there are three instructions you should follow:

Keli Clark/Oklahoma Tourism

• Read this article and make your reservations.

• Pack hiking boots, fishing poles, sunscreen and bug spray.

• Head east to Broken Bow for days filled with outdoor excitement.

To get to Beavers Bend Resort Park, which is just northeast of Broken Bow, head east on I-40 to exit 240A toward McAlester (this is a partial toll road, so plan accordingly). Take exit 16 on OK-3 Toward Antlers to get into Broken Bow. From there, it’s just a few more miles on OK-259A to arrive at Beavers Bend Resort Park.

The Beavers Bend Trip Overview

At Beavers Bend Resort Park in southeast Oklahoma, you’ll find over three thousand acres of outdoor activity—from hiking, biking, fishing, boating, floating, horseback riding and so much more.

With towering trees, clear flowing waters and a wooded, rugged terrain, this outdoor lover’s paradise features more activities for families than most theme parks do. And the bonus? “Beavers Bend is a popular park for a reason,” said Keli Clark, marketing coordinator for Oklahoma State Parks. “It’s just breathtakingly beautiful. It is part of the Ouachita and Kiamichi Mountain ranges and it’s full of lush vegetation and includes the Lower Mountain Fork River.”

If you’re headed to the wild southeast portion of Oklahoma, plan to stay a few days. And in the end, you may decide you never want to leave!

Fun on the Water

At Beavers Bend Resort Park, trout streams are stocked year-round. Adults and kids can try their hand at the park’s two catchand-release trophy areas, and the Mountain Fork River also provides excellent fishing opportunities.

Flowing from the base of Broken Bow Lake, the Mountain Fork River is full of native Oklahoma fish like smallmouth bass and perch, but it’s also a friendly river to canoe or kayak on. “This park has a lot of family-friendly activities,” said Clark. “In the Riverbend area of the park, you can

32

take canoes or bumper boats and float the Mountain Fork River, or you can just swim and enjoy nature.”

The Riverbend area also has rental yakanoes (a combination kayak and canoe), paddle boats, traditional canoes and roped off swim areas. Due to the clear waters of Broken Bow Lake, this area is also a favorite for scuba divers. On the lake, families can try jet skiing with rentals available as well. “The river area has some platforms designed for handicapped accessibility, but they are also popular places to fish from,” said Clark.

Fun on the Land

Beavers Bend Resort Park’s miles of hiking trails attract not only day hikers, but the serious hiker as well. To challenge the entire family, try tackling the David Boren Trail, which includes 16 miles of hiking trails and four miles of multi-purpose/mountain bike trails. This trail brings you across creek bottoms, over mountain ridges, through heavy forest and through areas so remote it will be hard to remember what civilization looks like. For hikers not wanting the full 16-miles, there’s good news—this same trail can be broken down into a series of short or long hikes.

“Beavers Bend is great for hiking or backpacking,” Clark said. “The area is just so beautiful to go through.” The newly renovated Skyline Trail is one of the park’s

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

oldest trails and offers a treat for experienced hikers. Skyline Trail was closed for several years due to a conflict over land ownership and flood damage that occurred in 2009.

During refurbishment, a three-tier waterfall was discovered that is worth seeing. The trail covers seven miles.

Other family-friendly trails include:

• Forest Heritage Tree Trail: This looped trail begins and ends at the Forest Heritage Center Museum. The trail starts downhill from the large Indian sculpture and travels to Beaver Creek, along the creek and over a covered bridge and loops back to the museum. This trail is marked by white paint on the trees. Approximately 1.1 miles. Level of difficulty: fairly easy to walk, but you do have a couple of climbs.

• Beaver Lodge Nature Trail: This is a one-way trail, so when you reach the end, you’ll have to backtrack. It is a wide and easy trail suitable for families, but a short section of it has suffered flood damage.

Park officials suggest following the wide

Celebrate Local History

Families shouldn’t pass up the chance to visit the Forest Heritage Center, located four miles from the park entrance, which brings to life the history of forestry in Oklahoma.

“It showcases the forest itself, but also how to use the resources in the forest,” said Clark.

“It’s a great place that showcases art like woodworking, paintings, sculpture and more.”

Visitors to the museum can view the 14 large dioramas depicting Prehistoric Forests, Caddo Indians, Papermaking in the South, 1940 Lumbering and Forest Appreciation. Each diorama has a taped

Where to Stay:

Normally, hotels and non-park lodging are options, but with so many cabins, campgrounds and private cabins available, traditional hotel lodging is scarce in this part of the country.

Lakeview Lodge. At the park itself, families can rest after a fun-filled day at the Lakeview Lodge, which offers a breathtaking view above Broken Bow Lake.

This lodge has 40 rooms, each featuring cable TV, coffee service and other features.

The lodge presents a free complimentary breakfast each morning by the grand fireplace or the Balcony Terrace. The Lodge

Lisha Newman/Oklahoma Tourism

trail until it becomes too narrow and/or steep before turning back. Approximately 1 mile total length. Level of difficulty: easy to walk except for aforementioned damaged areas.

• Cedar Bluff Nature Trail: Starts across from Dogwood Campground and should be walked clockwise. Families can start on the left and turn right at each junction.

The trail is marked with blue on white blazes on trees, and hikers are urged to stay on the trail and avoid shortcuts.

Occasionally, the creek floods, making the lower part of the trail somewhat hazardous.

Approximately one mile in length. Level of difficulty: Both easy grade and a hill climb.

• Pine Ridge Nature Trail: Almost a figure-eight trail that loops back to the beginning. Starts across from the park’s tennis courts and continues right. You’ll venture through hardwood forests, a sewage lagoon (don’t swim here!) and across a mountain ridge. On the way back, you’ll explore forest and floodplains.

Approximately ¾ mile. Level of difficulty: fairly easy to walk, two up-hill and two down-hill grades.

narration to help learn about the topics.

Other exhibits include chainsaw carvings, a 100-year-old log cabin from the Kiamichi Mountains, a Forest Wood Art Gallery and traditional woodworking tools. The Center opened an exhibit in 2003 that honors the wildland firefighters who risk their lives each year. A bronze sculpture honors Jim Burnett, the first firefighter in the state to lose his life fighting wildfires.

Sports and More

Just past Dogwood Campground at Beavers Bend, near Swim Beach, you can find additional activities include tennis, volleyball and mini golf. The Beavers Bend Depot & Stables, located in Area E, near the entrance of the park, gives families the ride of a lifetime on a one-third scale replica of the C.P. Huntington S.P. train built in 1863. The train runs twice an hour, chugging through Wahoo Hill and through a tunnel at Beavers Bend Resort Park.

Be sure to stop by the stables for a one-hour trail ride through 2½ miles of the park.

Children under age five must ride with a parent, but older children can ride their own

is located at Hwy 259 North, Steven’s Gap Road, in Broken Bow. Call 580-494-6179 for room rates or reservations.

Beavers Bend Cabins. The park also has 47 cabins located in forest groves overlooking the Mountain Fork River. The cabins accommodate from two to six people, and all have kitchens, dining utensils, linens and central heat and air. Most cabins have fireplaces. None have telephones or televisions, so be sure to bring your own entertainment.

Private cabins. For information on privately-owned cabins in the area, visit www.beaversbendlodging.com or www.

Get Your Family Prepared to Fish

Besides stocking up on the fishing poles, portable chairs, bait and sunscreen, be sure you “get legal” to fish too. Annual fishing licenses are required for all residents of Oklahoma 18 to 64 years of age, unless exempt (costs vary). Residents who will turn 65 years of age or older during the current calendar year are eligible to purchase a resident senior citizen lifetime fishing license; contact the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation headquarters for information.

To trout fish in the Mountain Fork River, you must have a trout stamp added to the fishing license. Children under the age of 16 are still required to have a trout stamp to fish in the Mountain Fork river; the cost is just $5. Call 405-521-3851 or visit www.wildlifedepartment.com for information on fishing licenses.

beaversbendcabins.com. Both sites offer photos and information on numerous cabins for rent in the area, in case the park cabins are filled up.

Roughing it. RV and Tent Camping sites are available in Beavers Bend State Park, with 15 primitive camping areas, six semi-modern areas with electric and water hookups, and two modern areas. Happily, all the sites have toilet facilities and three have full comfort station/shower facilities.

Hotels. If a hotel is your only option, chain hotels are available in the neighboring towns of Idabel and Broken Bow.

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

33

Photos provided by Broken Bow Chamber of Commerce.

Recommended Reads

Let Them Be Eaten By Bears By Peter Brown Hoffmeister (Perigree, $16) So your kids (or you) are more interested in playing computerized versions of fishing or camping than getting into nature and doing it for real?

This book will baby-step your kids (or you) into the idea of the GREAT outdoors instead of the scary or strange outdoors.

Get Your Kids Hiking By Jeff Alt (Beaufort, $14) A hiking guide for parents to get kids into the fun. The chapters and checklists are broken down into age ranges to make it easily accessible for all, and the expert author (he’s even hiked the Appalachian Trail) has plenty of information to share.

experienced horse. After your ride, visit the Beavers Bend gift shop to refuel on candy and ice cream while shopping for souvenirs.

Parents and their young golfers may also enjoy a visit to the nearby 18-hole, par-72 Cedar Creek Golf Course, with manicured fairways that wind through pine, oak and wooden roughs, all teaming with wildlife.

Go 12 miles north of Broken Bow, then three miles east on Golf Course Road. It is the kind of golf course one would imagine finding in a pristine, pine-laden wilderness.

Hours are 7:00am–8:00pm in season, 8:00am–5:00pm off-season. Call Cedar Creek at 580-494-6456.

Kiamichi Owa-Chito Festival of the Forest If you plan your visit this month, you are in for a treat! This year marks the 41st anniversary of the Kiamichi Owa-Chito Festival of the Forest. Held the third weekend each June (June 14–16,2013), this three-day festival stages an annual Festival of the Forest to display the beauty, heritage and culture of Kiamichi Country.

Featuring forestry competitions like ax throwing, double-buck sawing and crosscut contests, the festival brings back “the good ole days” of early twentieth century Oklahoma. Competitors vie for the title of “Bull of the Woods” and “Crew of the Woods.”

34

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

Log rolling and juggling chainsaws are both part of the All American Lumberjack Show, performed live at the festival. You’ve seen it on TV, but now you can see quick carving, boom runs and stock sawing live.

As part of the festival, the annual Owa-Chito Art Show starts with a reception at 7:00pm on Thursday, June 6 at the Forest Heritage Center Museum. This annual art show features more than 300 works of art from more than 100 artists. The Art Show will continually run from June 7–17 at the park.

Heidi Brandes is a freelance writer based in Oklahoma City with 15 years of journalism experience. She is an avid traveler, adventure hound and professional belly dancer. Visit her website at www.heidewrites.com.

Editor’s note: Coming next month, we take a tour of southwest Oklahoma parks, including Lake Murray State Park. Find more at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/exploringoklahoma.

Keli Clark/Oklahoma Tourism

Close Up on Beavers Bend Folk Festival and Craft Show

From November 8–10, The Forest Heritage Center Museum will host the 20th annual Beavers Bend Folk Festival & Craft Show. This festival and show attracts over 17,000 visitors for turn-of-the-century arts and crafts and to enjoy the beautiful fall colors in the forest.

This year, nearly 70 exhibitors and vendors will feature crafts and skills ranging from herbalists to lye soap making, candle making and woodturning. Quilters will also be showcased.

Children can have their own fun listening to famous storytellers in the courtyard or petting animals at the petting zoo. A children’s activity area lets kiddos try their own crafts by making handmade paper puppets.

The Beavers Bend Folk Festival also welcomes the country’s best folk musicians. Mountain Dulcimer workshops are offered each day in the courtyard and visitors can learn the skill from instructors Keith and Darlene Vanderbosch.

Oklahoma Tourism

Food vendors include pork-o-bobs, patty melts, chicken tacos, smoked turkey legs, Indian tacos, cowboy tacos and burgers. Wash it all down with country cider or homemade root beer.

Oklahoma Tourism

For more information, call 580-494-6497 or visit www. forestry.ok.gov/folk-festival.

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

35

Ask the Experts Local Parenting Experts and Readers Weigh In Different Parenting Philosophies

Healthy Food Choices

My spouse and I can’t agree about how to parent our children. I’m strict, he’s laid back. I expect them to meet high standards, he wants to let “kids be kids.” How can we find a way that will keep us both happy? Help!

I’m trying to encourage my child to make healthy choices with food. How can I encourage a 9 year old who only wants a fast food kids meal that it might not be the best food choice?

Kids need parents to be on the same page when it comes to parenting and discipline, or there will be confusion about expectations and that can lead to kids manipulating parents to play one against the other. It can also lead to arguments and frustration between you and your spouse. Sit down with your husband and discuss what is important to each of you when it comes to parenting your kids. Keep in mind, it’s your job to help your kids learn to become independent, responsible members of society. How do you see that being accomplished? How does your spouse see it? Come up with a list of big issues and how you can both agree to handle them. If you feel strongly about how to handle particular situations, explain why you feel the way you do and listen openly to your husband’s opinions too. You each may learn the other has valid reasons for handling some of those issues in a different manner than you do. With the smaller issues, choose

your battles wisely and determine what is truly important and what is negotiable.

Tamara Walker is a registered nurse, talk show host and speaker in Edmond. www. momrn.com.

Reader feedback:

• Begin with the end in mind. What type of adults do you want your children to be? What do you hope your children learn from you and by watching you? I really got a lot from reading The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

• Taking a parenting workshop together in something like “Love and Logic” may help you talk it out and find the common ground.

• Remember your goal as parents and go from there.

Thanks to Mikel I., Sarah T. and Annie G. for your feedback!

Bedtime Battles My children are great! Except at bedtime. Then it’s nothing but attitude and fighting and arguments and frustration. Is there a foolproof way to get my child to go to bed?

I wish there was a foolproof way to deal with Reader feedback: any childhood behavior; but with kids, you • My kids act that way when they’re already have to be ready with a plan B, C, D and really sleepy. Maybe you could try moving sometimes E. I do have a few ideas to help bedtime forward 30 minutes or so. make bedtime more peaceful at your house.

• Maybe a warning about 15 minutes before Start off with a family meeting, which is a you begin your routine, such as “15 more good idea to do anytime you change house minutes until it is time to start getting rules, to let your children know what’s going ready for bed” and then five minutes, etc. to happen. Make a chart for each child that • Each night, my kids would each get one shows bath time, tooth brushing time and “free” time to get up, call mom or dad into bedtime. Do your best to stick with the times, their room, etc. Then the next time would but also let them know that you may have to result in negative consequences. It was adjust it occasionally due to activities. Give VERY hard for us to stick with this the your child some options for the first 15–30 first month or so, but it SO paid off! They minutes they are in bed (for instance, read are awesome about going to bed now. or listen to soft music), but have a definite lights out time. Let your children know that a calm bedtime is an expectation in your Thanks to Audrey O., Kami M. and Rachel house. Set up consequences for undesirable K. for your feedback! behavior if you need to. You can also help them transition to the new plan by winding down the activity in the whole house around bedtime. Good luck and sweet dreams!

Lanet Clark is an elementary school counselor in a metro-area school district.

38

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

First and foremost, don’t take him to fast food restaurants if you don’t want him ordering a kids meal. Make sure your choices help his choices. Secondly, make it fun. Develop creative and fun ways of serving what he might see as boring, healthy choices—celery is always better with peanut butter!

Donnie Van Curen, M. A., LMFT, is a licensed marriage and family therapist with Counseling 1820, LLC. 405-823-4302, www. counseling1820.com.

Parents should be in charge of a nine year old and what he eats when he is with you. So if you don’t want him to eat kids meals, don’t take him to fast food restaurants, except for a treat. It’s fine to communicate with your child that fast food isn’t the best choice, but if you want him to eat in a healthy manner, you need to feed him healthy foods. And remember, the best way to teach your children how to eat healthy is for you to eat healthy and serve healthy foods.

Devonne Carter is a clinical social worker in private practice in Edmond. 405-326-3923, www.carterscounseling.com Our Readers Respond:

• Let them help cook. My kids found they could make some foods better than what they find in fast food restaurants. Also, try something outside your own comfort zone.

A kid who really likes Chicken McNuggets may find he likes sushi even better. The more foods they try, the more options they have.

• Children learn by example. If you are eating healthy your child will, too.

• We had a weekly “pick out something you’ve never had before from the produce section” game going for years. It got them to learn about food, be open to new ones and make better choices.

Thanks to Dorothy H., Jennifer W. and Blair F. for your feedback!

For more input from our experts on these questions, visit www.metrofamilymagazine. com/ask-the-experts.

Focus on Education Tips for Preparing for College

W

hile summer fun is getting started, some students have a little more on their minds. Many high school soonto-be seniors (and even some juniors) are already thinking about college preparations.

Recent graduates may even be preparing to relocate… and some procrastinators are scrambling to make last-minute college plans for the fall. Still others may have no idea what they want to do.

No matter which group you or your teen fall into, don’t despair. Even though tuition prices have increased over the past two decades, college is an option for virtually anyone who wants to go. The key is being prepared.

Virtual Planning

Whether you’re a student who simply assumed you would attend college and have always operated with that plan in mind, or whether you made a conscious decision during high school—or even after graduation, the good news is, you can still get it done. Students should start browsing college websites early to get a feel for what schools and programs appeal to them. The internet is going to be one of the best initial tools for narrowing down that long list of possibilities, so it’s a good idea to spend some time and bookmark favorite schools or degree programs that spark interest. Think of this phase as doing a little online shopping: research is key.

Amber Dubuc is a high school guidance counselor with the Oklahoma City Public Schools system. Guidance counselors are often one of the best allies a student can have when it comes to college planning

and preparation. Counselors are trained to help with all aspects of the process, from preparatory coursework to choosing a school and filling out applications. “For those that can handle it, we love to have their ACT and SAT already out of the way junior year… maybe even have them in a concurrent enrollment program [with a local college], which allows them to receive credits while still in high school,” says Dubuc. “Of course, not all students can handle that kind of course load, and that’s okay.”

Paperwork

The summer before beginning senior year can be an opportune time to visit colleges.

“Students need to visit as many campuses as they can,” says Dubuc. Also, this is a good time to talk with admissions counselors about the process.

For programs that require an essay, it’s never too early to start practicing. “Senior year should be spent focusing on time management and writing skills,” adds Dubuc.

For students who haven’t done so, they need to make arrangements for their ACT and SAT testing and submit their FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). “For students who qualified for Oklahoma’s Promise during their sophomore year, they need to make sure they are on track to receive it,” says Dubuc. This program, set up by the Oklahoma Legislature, allows for a four-year education at a public Oklahoma college or university for students whose families meet the income requirements at the time of their application. Qualifying students are also required to maintain a cumulative 2.5 GPA in grades 9–12 and complete 17

units of college prep courses required by the program’s curriculum. In other words, no slacking during senior year.

Students who have not yet begun applying for scholarships will need to do so as soon as possible. “Guidance counselors should have all the information they need. They can walk through the FAFSA with students and help them apply for grants and scholarships,” explains Dubuc. Incoming seniors can start by making a simple checklist, including the following steps: • Meet with guidance counselor.

• Take the ACT/SAT (retake as needed).

• Complete FAFSA application.

• Visit colleges.

• Practice essays.

• Apply for applicable scholarships.

• Apply to schools of choice.

Decisions, Decisions

At this point in the year, however, many students in the metro have yet to even make a decision about college. If they’ve decided to go, they may have no idea what they want to do. “In my experience, most of them don’t know what they want to do.

Guidance counselors can give them interest inventories… but really, it’s about teaching them to think Big Picture. They need to understand that a degree equals life, and freedom from a lot of pains. They need to know that where they end up isn’t as relevant as getting started with the basics,” says Dubuc.

College Entrance Exams Many colleges and universities base admission on ACT or SAT scores; it’s best to refer to the school’s website before taking either test to determine admission criteria so as not to spend either time or money unnecessarily.

According to The National Center for Fair and Open Testing (www.fairtest.org), many schools are not requiring either test for admission, including many schools in Oklahoma. A list may be found on their website.

What is the ACT? The ACT is a national college admissions exam covering English, math, reading and science, plus an optional writing test. The test is administered six times each year (in September, October, December, February, April and June), contains 215 questions (plus the optional writing test) and results are tallied based on the number of correct answers. Base test fee is $35, $50.50 for ACT plus writing; fee waivers available. Other fees may apply. (www. actstudent.org) What is the SAT? The SAT tests reading, writing and math skills through a general test or subject matter tests. The test is administered several times each year, and students usually take the SAT early in their junior year, a second time late in their senior year and results are based on number of correct answers with point fractions subtracted for incorrect answers. Base test fee is $50, individual subject tests available at $12 or $23 per test, fee waivers available. Other fees may apply. (sat.collegeboard.org)

40

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

For students who have a less-than-exemplary academic record, there is still time. “There’s never a better time than the present to start fresh. We live one time. We are all allotted do-overs. I tell my students, if you want to live and live well, then buckle down and get focused. Start small. Take a couple of classes. Consider starting at a junior college.

There are plenty of programs that are geared towards kids that require remedial classes before beginning their [degree] programs.

Good tutors and labs are there. It’s really about instilling in them that they have to want it. That there’s no other choice in the times we live in now,” concludes Dubuc. The good news is, it’s never too late.

Shannon Fields is a freelance writer and single mom to two girls. An Edmond resident, she graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma and is an HR manager in the medical field.

College Costs & Benefits From $20,000 to $65,000 a year—that’s the tuition cost for one year of college, says John McDonough, CEO of Studemont Group College Funding Solutions (www.studemontgroup.com).

“And for elite schools, we’re talking about three times the cost of your local state school.

Either way, your kid’s higher education can easily shoot into six figures after four years.”

However, McDonough reminds parents to remember the return on investment of a college education. College graduates earn 84 percent more than those with only a high school diploma, according to Georgetown’s Center on Education and the Workforce. On average, college graduates earn more than one million dollars more in their lifetime than those with only a high school diploma.

Join our community!

Subscribe to Weekend Picks, our popular weekly email giving you all the upcoming family events in the area Like us: Facebook.com/MetroFamily Follow us: Twitter.com/MetroFamily

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

41

Your Healthy Family Tips for a Healthy Dad

F

ather’s Day is fast approaching, and it’s that time of year where we all take time to be thankful for our fathers and husbands. As such, it’s always a good time for dad to take a general assessment of his overall health. (Go ahead and remind him if you need to!) After all, the idea is to keep those dads healthy and happy and with us for as long as possible.

There are three supplements that all men should be taking for optimal health, to boost immunity and protect against diseases such as heart disease and cancer. If your dad’s medicine cabinet is missing any of these, maybe now is the time to help him stock up.

Vitamin D

Although the National Institute of Health recommends adult men take 600 international units (IU) of vitamin D daily, many doctors and pharmacists say the standard is still too low. Vitamin D is essential to the body for absorbing calcium and repairing bone, but it is also critical for disease prevention. “The NIH’s recommendation for vitamin D is still very conservative,” says metro pharmacist Dave Mason. Many recent studies have shown strong evidence that the vitamin can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and some cancers. A recent study that found that people with low D levels have more than twice the risk of heart attack or stroke and three major Harvard University studies link lowered levels to colorectal and pancreatic cancers.

Evidence continues to show that the nutrient can also help fight type 2 diabetes, cognitive decline, depression and arthritis. “When we start someone on Vitamin D, epsecially if they’ve tested low, we’ll often start them on 4-5,000 IU daily and have them test after three to four months. If they land in those optimal ranges, they can back off some, but even then, 1-2,000 IU daily is still ideal,” says Mason.

Why can’t you get enough D from food or sunlight, which naturally produces the nutrient in the body? Very few foods contain vitamin D—it’s mainly found in D-fortified milk and fatty fish like salmon and tuna, and most Americans don’t consume these often enough to generate the levels needed to fight disease. In addition, most Americans spend the majority of their time inside and often use sunscreen when out, which limits natural production. The result is that more than half of the U.S. is D-deficient, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

42

Fish Oil/Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids, the type found in fish oil supplements, are essential to building cell membranes. Because the body doesn’t naturally produce omega-3s, we have to obtain them through our diet. Fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna and mackarel is high in omega-3s but if you don’t eat at least two servings weekly or consume flaxseeds, nuts or canola oil daily, you’re most likely deficient.

Studies show that omega-3 fatty acids are key not only to cell health but also to keeping the heart healthy by reducing blood triglycerides, which can cause arteries to harden. The evidence is so pervasive that in 2004 the FDA approved one of the supplement’s health claims, allowing manufacturers to print on everything from fortified juice and eggs to chocolate bars that “omega-3s may lower the

bacteria. Some digestive disease specialists are recommending them for disorders that frustrate conventional medicine, such as irritable bowel syndrome. Since the mid1990s, clinical studies have established that probiotic therapy can help treat several gastrointestinal ills. Other studies suggest that the regular use of probiotics will delay the development of allergies in children and that they may be helpful to promote increased immunity overall.

“Like most supplements, probiotics are not all created equally,” says Mason. “Patients should check to see what type of bacteria the supplement contains. The best ones generally contain lactobacillus acidophilus and two types of bifidobacterium, bifidobacterium longum and bifidobacterium lactis. See how many live cultures are in the supplement… we like to see at least 15-30 billion live cultures, but honestly, when it comes to

... if you are looking for the perfect gift for Dad, it may be time to help him branch out beyond his multivitamin comfort zone and give him the gift of improved health and longevity. risk of coronary heart disease,” which is the leading cause of death in the United States for both men and women. Research indicates that omega-3s can also help protect against cancer, arthritis, depression, dementia and other cognitive problems.

Make sure to choose a quality supplement that lists the specific types of fish, as well as the amount of EPA and DHA it contains. “A lot of fish oils supplements on the market don’t come from quality sources, and may contain very little EPA/DHA,” says Mason.

“For prevention of disease, we like to see our patients on at least one to two grams per day of high quality EPA/DHA. If you have specific risk factors, then be more aggressive.” Talk to our healthcare provider about your specific dosage.

Probiotics

Bacteria have a reputation for causing disease, but in truth, the bacteria living in your gut are mostly the helpful variety. Scientific evidence suggests that you can treat and even prevent some illnesses with foods and supplements containing certain kinds of live

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

probiotics, it’s almost impossible for most people to take too much,” says Mason.

So there you have it… if you’re looking for that perfect gift for Dad, it may be time to help him branch out beyond his multivitamin comfort zone and give him the gift of improved health and longevity. Encourage him to be proactive and get regular checkups and focus on prevention rather than treatment of disease. It might be one of the best gifts your whole family could ever receive.

Shannon Fields is a freelance writer and single mom to two girls. An Edmond resident, she graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma and is an HR manager in the medical field.

Local Shopping Norman’s Local: Healthy Eating from Farm to Fork

I

t’s not often that the concept behind a restaurant is designed specifically around children, but Local in Norman is an exception to many rules. Perhaps most notably, it is one of few restaurants in the metro that offers an on-site children’s center designed to offer fun for kids while parents enjoy their meal.

Local is the brain child of sisters Melissa Scaramucci, Heather Steele and Abby Clark, who blended the best practices of their favorite restaurants with concepts that have been bred into their family for generations—sustainable farming, seasonal eating and a celebration of all things local. “We all have young children,” explains Scaramucci. “It all started with our own kids and how we wanted them to eat. From there, the idea just evolved and continues to grow today.”

Designing Local

Local is a “farm-to-fork” concept restaurant located in the Normandy Creek Shopping Center at NW 24th and Main in Norman.

None of the sisters had owned a restaurant before, so they collaborated with local farmers and Chef Ryan Parrott of the Iguana Mexican Grill for about a year to hone their concept prior to opening the doors in March 2012.

“We all love good food and are good home cooks,” Scaramucci explains. “Our uncle runs our family farm [Walnut Creek Farm in Waynoka], so we have a good background in that style of eating and farming. We literally brought that to the table with us. Since the movement of local eating has gained so much traction, we just felt like the time was right to open Local. If we would have tried five years ago, I’m not sure it would have been as successful.”

The restaurant features an open kitchen, patio, bar, a market featuring local products and meals on-the-go and a children’s center called Localville which includes a nursery, movie cave, reading space, art area, play houses and more.

“When the economy crashed a few years ago, we noticed people weren’t going out to eat as much, especially when it is $40 just to pay a babysitter to be able to leave the house,” she adds. “We wanted to create a place where parents and kids can all eat well and enjoy themselves.”

“We wanted our restaurant to be accessible,” Scaramucci continues. “Our entrees begin at $8. We want it to be food that people can afford. We don’t want to just be a special occasion restaurant. We want it to be something you can enjoy on a regular basis.”

44

Norman’s Local restaurant provides a farm to fork concept to metro residents.

For the Kids

Clark is a former teacher and Scaramucci has dubbed her the “mayor” of Localville. “In addition to our play areas, Abby makes sure that Localville offers different crafts every week and new experiences every time. We know how little people are, and we want to keep it from getting boring,” Scaramucci explains.

Localville is designed to allow kids to eat at their own pace while their parents enjoy their meal in the adjacent dining room. Children are also welcome to dine with their parents at the table and play in Localville before or after the meal.

“One thing you’ll notice about Localville is that there are no French fries, no mac and cheese and no chicken nuggets on our menu,” Scaramucci says. “We think it is terrible that those are your only choices for kids when you eat out. Here, kids can take ownership by choosing their own menu, which is full of the things that short people love, but that are also healthy.”

Children create their own meals from seasonal lists of fruits, vegetables and entrees including almond baked chicken, cheese ravioli, turkey sandwich, meatloaf slider, scrambled eggs and cheese pizza. “We make really good kid food. For example, our cheese pizza is made with local bread, using marinara made from local tomatoes and lowfat cheese,” Scaramucci explains.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

Safety is a primary concern at Localville, where a secure check-in process requires parents to provide photo identification and other safeguards. All Localville staff undergo a background check and receive their food handlers certification. “Parents can relax and enjoy their meal, knowing that their kids are having fun and we will text them if their kids need anything,” Scaramucci assures.

Farm to Fork

About 70 percent of the food served at Local comes directly from farms in Oklahoma.

“Even though many local farms have really diversified what they can produce, there are some things we just can’t buy locally, like lemons and olive oil,” Scaramucci notes.

“But we try to have a local component in every dish. Our beef, buffalo and salads all come from local farms. We buy our fish directly from sustainable fishermen, so it comes in fresh. If we can’t get something locally, we work hard to find sources that have the same philosophies that we do.”

Being closely connected with local agriculture, Local’s menu changes with the seasons. “We eat seasonally and our menu reflects that,” Scaramucci laughs. “We will put fresh tomatoes on practically everything during tomato season.” Since all of Local’s food is handmade on site, the menu is accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, as well as those with gluten-free diets or food allergies.

Scaramucci’s favorite entrée is the four meat meatloaf, which combines local beef, buffalo, lamb and pork with a bacon and mushroom sauce. “I crave it!” she admits.

Other crowd pleasers include the restaurant’s Super Yummy Pita (which features local chicken and a house-made sundried tomato aoli), the stacked chicken enchiladas (rolled in blue corn tortillas with an ancho crema and tomatillo sauce) and their signature hand cut truffle chips (served with a trio of dipping sauces made on site).

Also changing with the season are Local’s decadent desserts. Current offerings include banana split bread pudding, carrot ginger cake and blueberry pecan cheesecake.

Also, Local’s Buzz Bomb Cake (a flourless chocolate cake with a smear of brandied apricot ganache and topped with chocolate mousse) recently won “Best in Show” at the 2013 Festival of the Arts. “It’s really rich and gluten-free,” Scarmucci adds.

On Sundays, Local offers a family-style, themed brunch menu from 10:00am–3:00pm.

“Our brunches were inspired by the excellent experience provided by the Princess Brunch at Disney World,” Scaramucci confides. “But

we changed it up by bringing the buffet to the table. We love the ideas of bringing all the breakfast food you care to eat to you. We wanted it to be a memorable experience.”

Rounding out each week’s three-course brunch is a special “dessert” pancake, tied to the meal’s theme. Recent brunch menus have included pineapple upside down pancakes, red velvet pancakes, peach pancakes and mimosa pancakes with champagne whipped cream.

Beyond the Menu

Growing Local

“In the future, we would love to expand and open another location,” Scaramucci says.

“Our first year has just been super huge and we love being part of our community. We do a lot and give a lot back to the community.”

And the accolades have already begun pouring in. In its first year, Local has been honored for excellence by the Norman Chamber of Commerce, the Festival of the Arts and the Firehouse Art Center’s annual Chocolate Festival. The restaurant was also a finalist in the “Best Family-Friendly Restaurant” category in MetroFamily’s 2013 Family Favorites awards program. And Scaramucci says the best is yet to come.

Local also offers catering for weddings, receptions and events of all sizes, and can customize the menu to fit any budget or style.

“We can bring Local to you,” Scaramucci says. “I love how proud people are to be “We have a very talented catering staff, so we Oklahomans now, how people have embraced have lots to work with.” the 405, 918 and 580. They really want to eat local, buy local and wear a shirt with an The Local Market offers local team apparel, Oklahoma theme,” she reflects. “Local for gifts, home accessories and local art. In us means everything Oklahoma and we are addition, the Market offers “grab-and-go” proud to be part of that.” single-serving and family-size entrees. “We stock the market with things you could take with you, so come in for lunch and take home Brooke Barnett is the Assistant Editor and a turkey lasagna or housemade ravioli with Online Content Manager at MetroFamily you.”

Magazine.

Local

2262 W Main, Norman 405-928-5600 www.eatatlocal.com

Tuesday–Thursday, 10:00am–10:00pm Friday–Saturday, 10:00am–11:00pm

Sunday brunch, 10:00am–3:00pm (Online reservations available.)

What do customers say most?

“Our favorite thing to hear is that people like eating here because they don’t feel bad afterwards. We love helping people be healthier and eat locally. The flavors are so much better and you don’t go into a food coma afterwards from all the sugar and processed foods.”

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

45

Reach over

80,000 readers.

Connect with moms of central Oklahoma.

Call Today!

405-601-2081

46

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

Independence Day Fun Guide June 22-July 4 Liberty Fest in Edmond features 11 family-oriented events, including a concert, road rally, kite fest, rodeo, car show, food fest, pageant, parade & fireworks.

Named by CNN & USA Today as one of the top 10 July 4th festivals in the US. See website for schedule. 3402527, www.libertyfest.org.

June 29 • Saturday FREE Crafts for Kids “Fourth of July Noisemaker” at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) for ages 3+.

11am-3pm. 858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

FREE Stars & Stripes River Festival in the Boathouse District in OKC will include food, family activities, live outdoor concert, fireworks, races & more. See website for schedule. www. oklahomariverevents.org.

Fireworks Cruise on the Oklahoma River departs from Regatta Park landing & features appetizers & a cash bar as well as a spectacular fireworks display.

Reservations are required. $29 per person. 1011:30pm. 702-7755, www.okrivercruises.com.

June 30 • Sunday FREE Rockets Over Rhema at Rhema Bible College in Broken Arrow features a car show, inflatable games, outdoor concert, mechanical bull, rock climbing wall, face painting, concessions & one of the largest fireworks displays in the area at 10pm. 918-258-1589, www.rocketsoverrhema.com.

July 3 • Wednesday FREE Red, White & Boom at State Fair Park features the OKC Philharmonic & as they perform popular & patriotic musical favorites. Fireworks begin at approximately 10pm. 8:30pm. 842-5387, www. okcphilharmonic.org.

July 3–4 FREE Freedom Fest 2013 at Chisholm Trail Park (500 W Vandament, Yukon) & Yukon City Park (2200 S Holly, Yukon) features a live outdoor country music concert, OKC Philharmonic, free watermelon & ice cream, two nights of fireworks & more. See website for details.

350-8937, www.cityofyukonok.gov.

July 4 • Thursday Stars & Stripes Forever 5K at Lake Hefner-Stars & Stripes Park. Benefits the Silver Strings of Putnam City.

Register online. $25 in advance, $30 race day. 7am.

620-0773, www.ssf5k.com.

Annual Hometown Celebration at Adventure Quest & Leonardo’s (200 E Maple, Enid) is oldfashioned family-fun including games & prizes. 10am12pm. 580-233-2787, www.leonardos.org.

Pork at the Park at City Park (2200 S Holly, Yukon) will feature a barbeque contest with cash & trophy prizes. Private barbeque vendors will be present to be sure there is enough food to go around. Noon-3pm. www.cityofyukonok.gov.

48

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

FREE Old-Fashioned Independence Day Celebration in Marlow will kick off with a parade at 9:15am & includes arts & crafts, game booths, rides, various food vendors & fireworks at 10pm. 580-6582212, www.marlowchamber.org.

FREE Celebration in the Heartland 4th of July Festival at Buck Thomas Park (1903 NE 12, Moore) features live entertainment, vendors, food, inflatables, wineries, children’s sand pit, music, car show, happy train rides & more. Fireworks at dusk. FREE admission.

10am-10pm. 793-5090, www.cityofmoore.com.

FREE 4th of July Fireworks Extravaganza & Festival in Bricktown features fireworks visible from numerous locations in downtown OKC as well as food, live music & more. Fireworks after dark. www. welcometobricktown.com.

FREE 2013 Bethany Freedom Festival at Eldon Lyon Park in Bethany celebrates our nation’s independence with pony rides, inflatables, carnival rides, games, festival food, car show, shopping, a concert featuring the Chris Henson Band & fireworks.

789-2146, www.cityofbethany.org.

FREE 4th of July Celebration & World Champion Watermelon Seed Spitting Contest at Wacker Park in Pauls Valley features food, live entertainment, watermelon seed spitting contest & fireworks. www. paulsvalley.com.

FREE Tulsa Freedom Fest at locations along the Arkansas River in Tulsa features food, entertainment, activities, fireworks & more. See website for complete schedule & locations. www.riverparks.org/ freedomfest.

FREE Celebrate America in Downtown Poteau features activities, games, live music, food, fireworks after dark & more. 4pm. 918-647-9178, www. poteauchamber.com.

FREE 4th of July Celebration in McAlester features live entertainment, games, fireworks & more.

4:30pm. Fireworks at dusk. 918-420-3976, www. cityofmcalester.com.

FREE Norman Day Celebration at Reaves Park in Norman includes activities, watermelon, food vendors, live music, fireworks & more. Fireworks around 9:45pm. www.normanfun.com.

FREE 4th of July Festival in Seminole is a day of family fun including food, games, entertainment & fireworks. 382-3640, www.seminoleOKchamber.org.

FREE Tenkiller Fireworks Extravaganza at Lake Tenkiller in Talequah near the dam at dusk. 918-4574403, www.laketenkiller.com.

FREE 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular at Eufaula Cove in Eufaula invites everyone to relax & enjoy a spectacular fireworks display from the shores of beautiful Lake Eufaula. View by shore or from your boat! Fireworks begin at sundown. 918-689-2791, www.eufaulachamberofcommerce.com.

For more July 4 events, check www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ independence-day-fun.

Oklahoma Reads Great Reads for All Michael Chiarello’s Live Fire with Ann Krueger Spivack and Claudia Sansone, photographs by Frankie Frankeny (Chronicle, $35) Everything dad needs to get the grill going for a delicious summer of barbecues.

Chapters highlight drinks, sauces and dressings, managing the fire, pantry stocking tips—and of course, lots of tasty, grill-friendly recipes.

Early Readers

Hippopposites By Janik Coat (Abrams Appleseed, $15). A simply-drawn book for young children, using illustrations, die cuts and tactile elements. Includes concepts such as clear and blurry, small and large and soft and rough.

My Dad Thinks He’s Funny By Katrina Germein, illustrated by Tom Jellett (Candlewick, $15).

For kids with a funny dad or for dads who are looking for a few funny lines, this is the tale of a young man and a dad who has a funny reply for every situation, from breakfast to bedtime.

The World Belongs To You By Ricardo Bozzi, illustrated by Olimpia Zagnoli (Templar, $15).

A simplistically-beautiful picture book for young children that will also speak to new graduates on themes of freedom, love, sadness and happiness.

Grades 3+

Dragonflies and Caterpillars By Chris Earley (Firefly, $7 each).

Give your bug-loving kids a guide to these two commonly-found and fun-to-learn-about insects with colorful titles that are stuffed with pictures and facts about finding, classifying and caring for caterpillars and dragonflies.

RUMP: The True Story of Rumpelstiltskin By Liesl Shurtliff (Knopf, $17).

We’re all familiar with the tale of Rumpelstiltskin, but have we heard it all wrong? The story of young Rump (the butt of everyone’s jokes) expands on the classic story, giving a backstory (no pun intended) to the character that will make readers smile.

The Bulldoggers Club By Barbara Hay (Roadrunner Press, $17).

The first of a series of books by an Oklahoma author, readers are invited to meet the members of the Bulldoggers Club through their first escapade, where these adventure-loving boys of fictional Bootleg, Oklahoma learn the importance of telling the truth.

Adults

200 Best Ice Pop Recipes By Andrew Chase (Robert Rose, $25).

Try a different flavor of ice pop every day this summer with this guide to creating your own. Includes tips for preparation, additions and creating adult-only variations with liquor.

The Pocket Scavenger By Keri Smith (Perigree, $15).

Owners of this book are encouraged to get creative with it. Pick a challenge and scavenge the item named (such as #23—a napkin). Then turn the book over and alter it according to the directions on the page. A fun way to boost creativity.

Reviews by Mari Farthing.

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

49

Respect Diversity Arts Competition Creating “World Changers”

T

he Respect Diversity Foundation (RDF) is a non-profit, non-partisan educational organization that teaches tolerance for all people and encourages individuals of all ages to work together for positive change. RDF conducts yearround initiatives celebrating diversity and encouraging affinity across differences.

By creating an environment of open communication, RDF hopes to open minds and hearts to the beauty in our differences through inspiring educational speakers, arts-integration programs and more. But for Orvis Risner Elementary School teacher Linda Skinner, the organization serves an even higher purpose.

“The Respect Diversity Foundation is a powerful organization that invites teachers and students to engage in a life-changing opportunity to develop and to contribute to a project that will express love and respect— in many forms—for all of humanity,” Skinner explains. “Respect Diversity gives inspiration and has the potential to create ‘world-changers’ and brilliant, resourceful, responsible citizens and future leaders of our multi-cultural world.”

Arts Competition and Exhibition Each year, the organization hosts a statewide Respect Diversity Arts Competition and Exhibition, which encourages creative collaborations by Oklahoma students that promote respect, tolerance and increased understanding among cultures and peoples.

The Respect Diversity Arts Competition & Exhibition combines hands-on art integration with lessons in history, diversity and cultural awareness.

The contest encourages individual classrooms or schools to create collaborative works of art, photography, sculpture or poetry based around a unifying theme.

Each spring, entries are showcased at the Respect Diversity Exhibit, co-sponsored by MetroFamily and other supporters. Now in it’s twelfth year, RDF estimates that thousands of students from pre-kindergarten through high school have participated in this contest designed to educate, inspire and enlighten all who create and view it.

Teaching Tolerance In addition to creating beautiful art projects, the competition helps students in all grade levels to embrace the organization’s mission in a very real, hands-on manner. “I really feel like I have kids at a very impressionable age,” explains Morgan Ross, a kindergarten

50

Ranchwood Elementary Kindergarten students and their teacher, Morgan Ross, show off their award-winning exhibit.

teacher at Ranchwood Elementary School in Yukon. “The earlier you teach them tolerance and respect, the better. I feel like they get it at a young age, so that they can more easily see beyond skin color, abilities and other differences.”

But even with young children, teaching higher-level concepts such as diversity, peace and acceptance can be a challenging task— and one that the Respect Diversity Arts Competition can help mitigate. “Tolerance is hard to teach, continues Ross. “I feel like participating in the [Respect Diversity] competition has built an acceptance in my students for other people, no matter their age, background or abilities.”

The entries into each year’s contest address a wide variety of themes and topics related to diversity. While each project is different in scope, display and theme, an overarching truth becomes apparent to the educators and students involved—that the lessons they have learned through developing their projects often become part of their world view. “I know that these young, gifted people will lead us in our shared future and in a better way because they have deeply integrated these values in their hearts & minds,” Skinner concludes. “They are my hope and our collective hope for the future.”

To receive an entry form for the 2014 Respect Diversity Arts Competition and Exhibition, call 405-359-0369 or email rdfrdf@co.net.

Entry forms are due January 7, 2014. For more information about RDF or to view the 2013 competition entries and winners, visit www.respectdiversity.org.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

2013 Respect Diversity Arts Competition Winning Entries • Pre-K–K: Be Bold, Be Courageous, Be Original, BE SIGNIFICANT!, Ranchwood Elementary School, Yukon • 1st–3rd Grade: Appreciating Global Diversity By Showing Kindness, Telstar Elementary School, OKC • 4th–5th Grade: The Great Tree of Peace–A Lesson From History, Orvis Risner Elementary School, Edmond • 6th–8th Grade: Beautiful Celebrations of “Diversi-Tree,” Santa Fe Elementary School & Heritage Trails Elementary School, Moore • 9th–12th Grade: The Beauty of Diversity, Harding Fine Arts Academy, OKC • Performing Arts—The Beauty of Diversity–America, Santa Fe South High School, OKC • Honorable Mention—You Can’t Judge a Book by its Color, Metropolitan Library System & partners • Honorable Mention—Many Hands Make Peace, I.A.O. Gallery

Spotlight on the 2013 Winner—4th-5th Grade Entry Title: The Great Tree of Peace School: Orvis Risner Elementary School, Edmond Number of students: 70 in the Gifted & Talented Enrichment program Teacher: Linda Skinner How did your students come up with the idea for the project?

Spotlight on the 2013 Winner—PreK-K Entry Title: Be Bold, Be Courageous, Be Original, Be SIGNIFICANT! School: Ranchwood Elementary School, Yukon Number of students: 24 Teacher: Morgan Ross How did your students come up with the idea for the project?

I had the idea of “Be Significant” as an overlying theme. I took it to the students and let them set the direction. We decided to focus on kids of significance and we learned about the stories of kids who had made a difference. We then shot a video where they told me how those kids had made a difference in their world. The video really made it come full circle as they shared with me what they learned and what they are going to do to be significant in their own lives.”

How did they research/prepare for the project?

I introduced it with literature, through the stories of Martin Luther King and Ruby Bridges. I have a very ethnically diverse class, and every year we talk about MLK and how people couldn’t go to the same school. They then wrote about kids of significance that had been bold, brave or original. When I read it, I realized that they were keying in on the important things.

Did the project turn out as they expected?

I am always amazed by what my kids can produce and do. They could take the stories of three kids and translate it into their lives. They were going home and telling their parents about it—my goal is for them to learn something and take something away from it. It’s not about what the finished project looks like, it’s about what they learn and take home. The video really portrayed what the artwork was all about. The artwork itself may not look all that special. It’s the story behind it.

Students are painfully aware of current events, and all the news of wars scares them. This shared experience and emotion naturally led us to investigate the concept of peace and conflict resolution. They compared these larger issues to playground problems and other issues such as bullying, which they have already witnessed or personally experienced in their young lives. Then they heard the story, the sacred Oral Tradition of The Peacemaker, about a peacemaker who came to the five warring tribes (Seneca, Cayuga, Onondaga, Oneida, & Mohawk) many centuries ago and inspired them to create a lasting peace. The students wanted to know how they could prepare themselves to provide this same kind of powerful leadership and create a kinder, more peaceful world when they become adults.

How did they research/prepare for the project?

They researched, studied, and discussed the Great Law of Peace, and then applied its ideas to their own lives. They each thought about the words and actions that they wished never to hear or experience again. They wrote these “weapons” down silently, and privately, on a piece of paper, and then symbolically placed them under a small replica of the Great Tree of Peace, to re-enact this authentic event in history, many centuries ago, when these five warring tribes actually buried their weapons and planted a Great White Pine over them.

Did the project turn out as they expected?

This project began as brainstorming, and looking at the materials we had at hand, or that we could easily obtain without spending money. The symbolism of the Great Tree of Peace guided them in their search and discovery of everything from pine needles and pine cones, to the creation of the beautiful eagle on top, fashioned lovingly from a vinegar bottle.

What was the biggest thing your students learned from doing this project?

My students were touched by the knowledge that all decisions had to be made by consensus and that they had to consider the effect it would have on the seventh generation to come.

What was the biggest thing your students learned from doing this project?

We talked about how you don’t have to be an adult to make a difference or to be able to do something nice for someone else. I want them to strive everyday to be the best individuals that they can be. Through the project, we were able to establish that. I let them take it and run with it. The pictures in the circle are what they decided to do. They really owned it. It was a really neat experience.

To watch Morgan’s class video, visit www.metrofamilymagazine. com/respect-diversity-2013.

Brooke Barnett is the Assistant Editor and Online Content Manager at MetroFamily Magazine.

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

51

ST u'll find the BE o y , n o si a cc o r ro here. at time of yea the area right No matter wh in s e ic o ch g party-plannin

52

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

June 2013 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

53

Mom Gets the Last Laugh

Illustration by Emily Ball, http://emilymgball.com.

We are Not the Joneses

W

hen the kids were three and five, we moved to a green corner of Arkansas that is home to WalMart headquarters, crazed college football fans and serious suburban bliss. Summer in our adopted idyllic corner of the world is filled with SPF 55, backyard barbeque, and Jonesin’ to be the Joneses. Decks are primed and stained, cars washed and waxed, yards tended like favorite children. We share banana breads and casseroles, watch each other’s children, and mill around one another’s driveways discussing lawn care.

Like our 1950s predecessors, we yearn for a pristine, Kelly green Lego lawn. We admire, compare, and criticize the patches of green that grace our cul-de-sac. We are astounded at the thick carpet of grass next door and suspect its owner to be a midnight fertilizer.

We strategize ways to even out the bumps, wonder at the weeds that seem to defy the laws of poison and share truckloads of sand to create level surfaces that last through one thunderstorm. Peer pressure in this block of green patches should be a strong motivator, but the Davidsons are not the Joneses. Our lawn is not the envy of the lane; in fact, I am actually grateful that it’s not the worst.

The humble square of earth in front of my house is lumpy, won’t green up, and the edges never come out straight. It’s rarely even with the adjacent yards and the unblown

54

clippings accumulate at the edges, combining with the water from the automatic sprinkler to create a green sludge that is unwelcome in a tidy Mid-American subdivision. But the hard-bodied English major who mows it for us is more interested in his LSAT score than the proper disposition of my excess Bermuda.

Therein lies the problem. A boy—not my husband—cuts our grass. And a boy can never love a lawn as a man ought to.

However, the man I married would rather opt out of the Jones chasing altogether. He proudly proclaims to Mr. Jones, “I’ll make you look good.”

Call it laziness if you want—he prefers to call it “well-adjusted.”

But I’ve gone off topic.

The backyard is even worse than the front.

John built a huge deck, but the stain he used turned out less than good. He likes to pretend it looks okay.

“What did you put on it?” Mr. Jones asked.

My husband mumbled something unintelligible, even to another of his own kind. When Mr. Jones begged his pardon, my Cro-Magnon only grunted.

“No, really, I want to know,” Jones persisted, “So I don’t put it on mine.”

By the next year, the varnish had flaked and the wood had begun to pucker and warp.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2013

“What are you going to do about it?” asked Mr. Jones. I couldn’t tell if he was concerned, sanctimonious or simply disgusted.

“I’m not going to do anything.”

“You can’t leave it like this.” Yes, that was definitely disgust.

“Sure I can.” John grinned. “When I’m ready to sell, I’ll slap on a fresh coat.”

This year, at the beginning of deck maintenance season, Mr. Jones mentioned his weekend staining plans.

“Again?” John asked. He still didn’t get that, like our anniversary, deck maintenance is an annual event. “Tell you what,” he said, “I’ll pay you not to stain your deck.”

Mr. Jones took a deep, cleansing breath and replied, “Why don’t you take that money and hire someone to stain yours for you?”

That’s not going to happen. We need the money for the lawn guy, his sub-standard yard work and our ever-evolving layer of green sludge.

See, I told you we won’t ever be confused for those Joneses.

Lela Davidson is the author of Blacklisted from the PTA and Who Peed on My Yoga Mat?