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SEPTEMBER 2010

Tweens & Teens

The tough topics you need to tackle to raise successful kids

The smart

Geocaching: high-tech outdoor fun

parent's guide

to teen discipline: 11 effective tactics

T h e E s sent i a l Reso u rce fo r Cent ra l O k l a h o m a F a m i l i es

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r u o y g n i b b o r D Is ADH child of p?

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Lack of sleep (insomnia) may affect how your child feels during the day.

There are currently no drugs approved to treat childhood ADHD-related insomnia.

Two clinical research studies are being conducted nationwide to evaluate a sleep drug currently approved for adults 18 and older but investigational for children ages 6-17.

There may be an opportunity for your child.

Clinical Research Studies Now Enrolling!

These clinical studies are assessing an investigational drug for children and teens who meet the following criteria:

Qualified participants will receive:

• Diagnosed with ADHD

• Study drug (or inactive placebo) at no cost

• 6-17 years of age • Experiencing sleep problems • Sleep problems that specifically cause difficulty in: » Falling asleep » Staying asleep 2

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• Study-related care, study visits, sleep testing, and study-related medical assessments at no cost

• Study-related monitoring by research health care professionals at no cost

If ADHD is robbing your child of sleep, Call Now!

1-866-652-6937

• Possible reimbursement for time and travel

Or Visit:

• An opportunity to learn more about your child’s sleep problem

www.ADHDSLEEPSTUDY.org

September 2010

Imagine... better prospects for the school year ahead.

Everyone goes back to school with high hopes.

With Kumon Math and Reading your child can make them a reality.

Kumon Math and Reading students sharpen their study habits, so they can take on schoolwork with greater focus and self-discipline.

So you can look forward to one truly amazing school year after another.

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877-586-6671

www.kumon.com

Š2010 Kumon North America, Inc.

September 2010

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Finding a copy of your favorite to visit local family The Top 5 Reasons MetroFamilyMagazine.com in September: resource has never been 1 easier!

Sign up for our many contests, including one for Storytime Live! (coming Sept 21 to the Civic Center Music Hall) that includes a family four-pack of tickets and a Meet and Greet with two of the show’s characters. Other contests allow you to win Disney on Ice tickets; State Fair admission for four and a parking pass; and our annual Pumpkin Patch Giveaway featuring family four-packs to a few nearby pumpkin patches. Find them all at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/contests.

2

MetroFamily is now at all OKC area

Interested in learning to be more frugal? Check out the many tips provided by our two frugal moms, Karen Perea and Krysten Marshall. You might just save some moolah!

MetroFamilyMagazine.com/the-frugal-mom-shares-her-secrets

Jimmy’s Egg locations Homeland stores Crest stores YMCA branches Tan and Tone locations Area libraries

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Here’s another sure-fire way to save money. Download our popular Kids Pass and use it at over 30 attractions around the state. Most coupons are good through April, 2011!

MetroFamilyMagazine.com/kids-pass

Read the current and archived digital editions by clicking on the flipping magazine found at our website’s home page.

By following the tabs at the top of the digital edition, you may search archived editions, share specific pages or the entire magazine with your friends, and utilize the ease of all website pages being linked, whether in advertisements or stories.

MetroFamilyMagazine.com

(MetroLibrary System and Pioneer Library System)

And over 400 other local area businesses and schools

While there, be sure to check out our other local, informative bloggers and join in the conversation! MetroFamilyMagazine.com/blogs

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By September 15th, we’ll have the area’s BEST list of Fall Festivals up on our site. From pumpkin patches and corn mazes to carnivals and trickor-treat events, you’ll find all you need to make many long-lasting fall memories. MetroFamilyMagazine.com/fall-fun

What’s Happening at MetroFamily

• “Like” us on Facebook and you’ll be privy to the latest events around the area and exclusive contests just for Facebook fans. Last month, many MetroFamily Facebook fans enjoyed FREE ADMISSION at the Mustang Aquatic Center. You never know what our advertisers and community partners are going to offer next! Find us at Facebook.com/MetroFamily or search for “metrofamily” on your Facebook home page.

You can also enjoy the convenience of a subscription for only $18.95 per year.

Call 405-340-1404 (ext 2) or go to MetroFamilyMagazine.com/Subscribe 4

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•

Also follow us on Twitter (Twitter.com/metrofamily) for abundant family event and other parenting news. You’re always “in the know” with MetroFamily!

•

Never be bored again! Join over 5600 E-Update subscribers and receive a Thursday morning email that gives the best list of family activities coming up for the weekend. MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ subscribe-to-e-update.

•

Whether you are planning a Labor Day Weekend trip or just wanting to getaway and enjoy a beautiful fall day or weekend, find dozens of ideas for exploring nature in Oklahoma by using our annual travel guide, Exploring Oklahoma with Children. Find the complete digital edition and much more at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ exploring-oklahoma.

• MetroFamily’s October issue features our annual Birthday Party Guide and Fall Festival listing. Ad space reservation deadline is September 16th. Call today! 405-340-1404 or email ads@metrofamilymagazine.com.

September 2010

September 2010

All about Tweens and Teens 37 Calendar

18

Dozens of events and activities for family fun and enrichment

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Talking to Teens about Weight

Dear MetroFamily Editor’s Note

26 Dear Teacher

Advice from education experts: starting the year off right, school illnesses and early reading

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Are you concerned that your teen is too heavy or too thin? Read about 10 strategies for tackling this touchy subject with your teens.

Exploring Oklahoma

Geocaching: high tech fun

32 Family Finances

Teaching your teens smart money practices

10 Family Shorts

Community news and parenting resources

28 Oklahoma Reads

Book reviews for teens and tweens (and their parents) plus books celebrating grandparents

46 Out & About

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The parent/teen relationship can be tricky. These 11 tips for effective discipline will help you maneuver more smoothly through these sometimes tumultuous and often exciting years.

34

Food myths debunked: find 10 healthy foods that really aren’t and 10 that are better than you thought (including chocolate!).

On our cover: Mariah Turner, 17 year old daughter of Richard and Teresa Turner and a senior at Norman North High School, was one of our 2010 Cover Kids, winning the teen category. Learn more about Mariah on page 6.

Readers share their back to school and tween/teen photos

36 The Alert Parent

Protective versus overprotective when it comes to tweens

30 Your Healthy Family Could your teen be at risk for depression?

Cover Photography by Distinctive Images Photography • www.distinctiveimagesok.com

September 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

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Dear MetroFamily, School is back in session all across the metro, and I know that my mom friends were anticipating it this year. Even my home-schooling friends were looking forward to getting back into the routine that the school year brings. The kids were excited to get their new school supplies and meet their new teachers—but I suspect they were most excited about seeing friends they hadn’t gotten to see over the summer.

MFM editor Mari Farthing's children, Spencer (age 8) and Lauren (age 6), strike a pose on the first day of school.

As a work-from-home mom, I was happy to get the kids back in the classroom and out of the house. I rely on those school hours as uninterrupted quiet time for me to get work done and it was a challenge this summer to do that while also entertaining (or fending off) two bored children.

But, back to school also means that the vast hours of quality time we had together over the summer are gone; with their busy days filled with school, homework and activities, how are we going to find downtime to just talk and be together?

I’m a big proponent of the family dinner hour. We try to sit down for dinner most nights. We also try to read together, play games or even do chores together. These are bonding experiences for all of us. We can’t take for granted even the smallest amount of time we spend together as there is always a chance for connecting.

Back-to-school is also a time where it might be easier for busy moms (and dads, too) to take advantage of some time during the day to take care of themselves. I plan to ramp up my exercise regime with some fun ideas, and I’ll be writing about my adventures in fitness on my blog (metrofamilymagazine.com/thoughts-from-amilitary-wife-and-mother).

So, enjoy the new school year, metro-area moms! Find creative ways to stay connected to your family, take care of yourself and be sure to drop me a line and tell me all about your adventures.

Cheers,

Info And Questions: 405-340-1404 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 Mitzi Massie Mitzi@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Advertising Sales Athena Delce Amy Lou Tuzicka Ads@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Office and Distribution Manager Kathy Alberty Kathy@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Assistant Editor & Calendar Brooke Barnett Calendar@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Special Projects Assistant Terri Fields Editorial Assistant Elizabeth Harvey Contributing Writers Brooke Barnett Marge Eberts Allyn Evans Mari Farthing Shannon Fields Peggy Gisler

Sandra Gordon Judy M. Miller Karen Mitchell Sue Lynn Sasser Kim Seidel Kathy Sena

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. 306 S. Bryant, Suite C152 • Edmond, OK 73034 Fax: 405-340-1490 E-mail: Info@MetroFamilyMagazine.com

About our 2010 Cover Kid Model (teen division): A high school senior at Norman North High School, Mariah is the daughter of Richard and Teresa Turner. A star player on North’s basketball team, Mariah helped her team make it to the state tournament as a junior. After getting interest from several universities, she recently committed to the University of Tulsa, where she’ll be attending on a basketball scholarship. Congratulations, Mariah!

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©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2010, All Rights Reserved.

Volume 13, Number 9

ON SALE NOW! September 21st at 4:00pm & 7:00pm Civic Center Music Hall (405) 297-2264 • www.myticketoffice.com Check out NICKLIVETOUR.COM ©2010 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. Nickelodeon and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Viacom International Inc.

Fall/Winter

SALE Oct. 15 - 17, 2010

Children’s and Maternity Edmond Armory • 600 South Bryant Friday 9-6 • Saturday 9-3 Consignment * Sunday 12-4 Clothing * Most items 50% off on Sunday Specializing in boutique, department store, and name brand clothing for children and maternity plus teen's trendy clothing. Additionally selling high quality toys, furniture, shoes, baby equipment, accessories, books, and so much more!

To “Go Green and Get some Green” become a consignor and earn 70%!

www.sweetrepeatskidsconsignment.com

September 2010

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Exploring Oklahoma Geocaching: Getting Your Tech-Savvy Kids Outside

W

hat do you get when you cross a GPS (global positioning system) device with a treasure hunt? Great fun in the form of geocaching!

Geocaching is a fun, educational activity to get tech-savvy kids of all ages outdoors, and it’s a sister activity to letterboxing. For those who regularly read our magazine, you’ll recall that we featured letterboxing in our September 2008 issue and revisited the activity in our 2010 Exploring Oklahoma with Children special issue (see metrofamilymagazine.com/letterboxing for clues to our letterboxes). Letterboxing is a treasure-hunt activity that uses clues to locate a hidden letterbox. The seeker uses a personalized stamp to make a notation of their visit, then stamps their notebook with a stamp provided in the letterbox.

Geocaching differs from letterboxing in two primary ways. First, instead of specific clues to lead a seeker to a treasure, the geocache placer provides coordinates to the treasure location. The seeker then uses a GPS device to locate the treasure. The second difference is that the ultimate find is a literal “prize” that can be taken. The seeker replaces the prize with another of equal or greater value for the next participant to find.

I checked on the status of one of our MetroFamily letterboxes, one notation in the notepad mentioned geocaching. Later, when I was researching the 45th Infantry Museum in Oklahoma City, I learned there was a geocache located on the museum grounds. I felt the nudge to do some further research.

Was I surprised! Literally hundreds of geocaches are located in our metropolitan area; you walk or drive by them every day.

Getting Started It's easy to start the geocache hunting hobby. First you must either buy a GPS device (such as Garmin or Tomtom) or download a GPS application to your webenabled cellphone. I have the original iPhone (yes, I know….it’s an antique by today’s tech standards) and I was able to download a GPS application through Groundspeak for about ten dollars.

The Hunt On a recent visit from Japan, my sister-inlaw, Michal Small, and her kids: John (age 14), Annie (age 12) and Andrew (age 9) joined me on a geocache hunt. We didn’t have to go far; there were several to choose from right near my home in Edmond.

While we didn’t fare so well on our first hunt, we knew we were close. The postings on the website indicated that the treasure had been found only weeks before our visit.

So, a little dejected, we decided to tackle that one later and give another geocache a try. We were excited to find the second geocache within about 15 minutes. Inside the cleverly disguised geocache was a

I registered on the Groundspeak website for a free, basic membership that provides geocache location information including coordinates, maps, hints, etc. For a small fee, you can upgrade your membership for “membership only” geocaches and additional clues.

I first learned of geocaching while participating in letterboxing. When

Every person who finds it should sign the notebook to let others know who has been there before.

Tips to Get Started Geocaching: Geocaching is a world-wide hobby that started approximately ten years ago with the development of the GPS, making it a great vacation activity. As mentioned on the website, however, start with easy geocache hunts.

Make note of the difficulty rating and prepare adequately for the area for which you may be hunting. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear, bring snacks and water for longer hunts and use a compass. Some GPS applications include a compass on the download, but a traditional compass is a good idea. A few websites to get you started: • Geocaching.com: the official global GPS cache hunt site.

• Groundspeak.com: online resource supporting outdoor play and geocaching.

Using my iPhone and a GPS app to track the geocache.

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Success! The geocache that we found.

September 2010

Showing off the located geocache and our prize.

Find the MetroFamily Geocache

notepad and pen for us to make note of our visit and a Starbucks gift card (ironic, since our replacement prize was a Starbucks key chain).

More Information Some take the geocaching to extremes.

By visiting the official geocaching website, you’ll see videos of some extremely creative hidden treasures and tips for successful hunting. A store is even available for those wishing to take their geocaching to the next level. Geocaches come in several varieties to keep the hunts interesting. Some have themes or

MetroFamily is planting a special local geocache.

Visit metrofamilymagazine. com/geocache for clues. First one to find the geocache gets a special prize. Be sure to take an item to replace the prize for the next lucky hunter then report back to us at the website page listed above and tell us all about your adventure.

educational information about their location.

A little planning and preparation before searching for each geocache ensures that you bring what you’ll need for each hunt.

So, get the kids outside and happy hunting!

Karen Mitchell, a lifelong resident of the Oklahoma City metro area, lives in Edmond with her husband, Mark, teenage son, Ryan, and one spoiled Welsh Corgi. Daughter, Megan, attends OSU in Stillwater.

Healthcare doesn’t have to be expensive. Just good. www.globalhealth.com September 2010

GH-AD-FL11

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It’s Oklahoma State Fair Time!

When you think of the Oklahoma State Fair, do images of ferris wheels, corn dogs, roasted corn, livestock barns, rodeos and fun Midway games come to mind? The 2010 Oklahoma State Fair will bring back those much-loved icons, as well as exciting new attractions. Tickets are on sale now for the 2010 Fair, scheduled for Thursday, September 16 through Sunday, September 26.

“Generations of Oklahomans have forged fond memories here at the State Fair and this year will be no exception,” said Tim O’Toole, president and general manager of the Oklahoma State Fair. “Our pledge is to offer the very best value for your money and to make the 2010 Oklahoma State Fair one that you and your family will surely remember for many years to come.”

The Fair opens with Disney On Ice presents Let’s Celebrate!, a funpacked, ice extravaganza featuring more than 50 characters from 16 Disney stories. This will be the first time audiences see Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen from Walt Disney

Question of the Month Where’s your favorite place to hold your kid’s birthday party?

Visit metrofamilymagazine. com/fs-giveaway to answer this question and enter your name in our monthly prize package drawing, valued at over $500.

Deadline to enter is Thursday, September 23.

Your comments may also be used in a future issue of MetroFamily Magazine or on our website.

The full contents of the prize package are listed with the entry form. A winner will be drawn at random and notified by phone or email. The winner agrees to pick up items from the NW OKC area.

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Pictures’ “The Princess and the Frog” live on ice, as well as classic and contemporary Disney songs, an original storyline, and brilliant costumes.

Disney On Ice will feature ten performances from September 16-21. Tickets begin at $14 and include an outside gate admission ticket when purchased by September 15.

Other premier attractions for this year’s Fair include the PRCA Xtreme Bulls Tour, concerts by country The Ferris Wheel at the Oklahoma City State Fairgrounds. music star Josh Turner and State Fair park at fairslice.net.

Jake Owens, and TNA Wrestling.

Editor’s Note: MetroFamily will be Gate admission tickets are FREE for giving away Family Four Packs of children 5 and under, $5 for children tickets and complimentary parking (ages 6-11) and $8 for adults (12 and passes through metrofamilymagazine. older). Tickets can be purchased at com/contests, Facebook (“like” us the State Fair Arena Box Office, at Facebook.com/metrofamily) and participating Buy For Less locations Twitter (follow @metrofamily), so in Oklahoma City, by calling 800join our online community for your 511-1552 or online at tickets.com. chance to win!

For more information, visitokstatefair. com or read the official blog of the

Tween and Teen Issues Parents of tweens and teens know that it can be tough. The 139 respondents to our August question of the month are aware of how difficult these years can be.

While the vast majority of the readers who responded to not have tween or teen children (46%), most of the respondents with tweens or teens are concerned that their kids are growing up too fast (17%). Lisa P. of Edmond said: “My tween is already wanting to wear make-up, short shorts, and hang out with friends more than she does family.” Kelly R. of Arcadia noted: “With modern advancements, his maturity level is the same as mine at age 18-20.”

8% 8%

6%

3%

46%

12% 17% ■ ■ ■ ■

I don't have a teen/tween (I've either already passed that phase, or it's coming down the road!)

My teen/tween is growing up too fast!

I worry about the influence of peers and the possibility of drug/alcohol problems.

My teen/tween spends too much time with friends/activities/using technology and not enough time on school work.

Other I want my teen/tween to care more about his health and weight but I can't get him moving.

My teen/tween has had trouble with bullies.

Peer pressure relating to drugs and alcohol was ■ also a worry for our readers (12%). Lori B. of ■ Moore said “You hear so much about teens doing ■ drugs and alcohol. You want your child to grow up happy and have friends but you just don't know what friend is going to be the one to introduce your child to either drugs or alcohol... I try to have a good open communication line with my daughter and I really hope and pray that she will confide in me.”

The remaining 25% of readers had concerns about problems with health, bullies, too much technology or other issues. Dana C. of Edmond said: “I am mostly concerned with maintaining the positive, supportive and open relationship that we strived to cultivate during our kids' early childhood. Our involvement, as parents, is critical throughout this time but is also more of a challenge to maintain as our children enter this phase of individualization.”

Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/September-2010 to read all of the responses from our readers.

September 2010

Problem-Solving Products

Character Corner: Self-Control

When we hear about new or helpful products, we like to let our readers know! Here are a few of the interesting items we’ve recently found. Visit the product website for a list of local retailers.

Having self-control means that you strive to do what is right, rejecting impulses to do what you know is wrong. Self-control means that you practice positive habits and disciplines, which leads to freedom from bad habits.

Problem:

Chapped lips, lost lip balm.

Solution:

Blamtastic lip balm ($2.99) is created by kids, comes in fun flavors that kids will like (grape and green apple, to name a few) and fit in a sleeve that can clip on, making it hard to lose. (blamtastic.com)

Problem:

You need help teaching her to tie her shoes

Solution:

Tie Buddies ($8.99) slip through shoelaces and come with instructions to help your child easily learn to tie her shoe. (tiebuddies.com)

Problem:

Those expensive robot toys sure do break easily.

Most wonderful is he who has himself in his own power. ~ Seneca, Roman philosopher

To promote self-control in your home: Control tempers and work together to resolve anger.

Be careful to speak words of encouragement in favor of criticism; work to build one another up rather than tear one another down, even when irritated.

• Parents should instill the good habits of proper nutrition, vigorous exercise, rising early and following a daily schedule.

Encourage self-control in your home by committing to the following statements.

Say these “I will” statements aloud with your children, and encourage them to apply them to situations in their everyday life.

• •

I will: ... think before I act. ... take care of my body. ... sit still in class. ... control my temper. ... not give in to do wrong.

Contact Character First! for more character-building resources. To learn more, call 405-815-0001 or visit characterfirst.com.

Solution:

Single Moms Become Queen for a Day

Problem:

Thanks to the Single Parent Support Network, approximately 300 single mothers in Oklahoma will receive the “royal treatment” at the organization’s annual Queen for a Day event. Scheduled for Saturday, October 2, the event will be held at Oklahoma City Community College (7777 South May, OKC) from 9:00am-5:00pm, with registration beginning at 8:00am.

Zibits ($9.99) are a line of battery-operated mini robots that are sturdy and inexpensive. (zibits.com) Your notepad is getting in the way of your mousepad.

Solution:

Quirky’s Scratch & Scroll mousepad ($14.99) is a notepad and mousepad in one—make notes with the included stylus and erase by lifting the edge of the plastic sheet. (quirky.com)

Problem:

You’re at the checkout, but where did that gift card go?

Solution:

The Card Cache ($12.99) system keeps all of your gift cards (or photos or membership cards) on a handy ring. Comes with an attached mini-Sharpie to note the card balances. (thecardcache.com)

Problem:

You spend way too much on sandwich bags for school lunches.

Solution:

Bento Buddies ($12.99) containers come in many shapes and sizes, perfect for a variety of lunch or snack items. (laptoplunches.com)

Queen for a Day is an annual event that focuses on single moms and their need for a day of pampering, a break from their kids and new insight as to how to keep going in the endeavor to successfully raise their children. The Network defines a single mom as any mother or grandmother raising children alone, including women with a husband in prison or deployed or that may have an extended bed-ridden illness.

Deborah Phelps, single mother to US Olympic Gold Medalist Michael Phelps, will give the event’s keynote address.

At the event, every single mom will be escorted to their table by a knight in shining armor, handed a flower and seated at the table of great honor. The day will include a keynote address from Deborah Phelps, single mother to US Olympic Gold Medalist Michael Phelps, testimonials from single mothers, sessions on how to help your family write a family vision plan, a special lunch and pampering sessions including manicures, pedicures, massages, and haircuts. Participants will also shop for a new outfit and clothing for their children, and a grand prize will be given to a “Queen for the Day” winner. The event is free to single mothers, but space is limited. For more information or to register, call 405-210-5072 or visit kfor.com/queenforaday.

September 2010

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Infant Crisis Services Expands Oklahoma has the eighth highest incidence of childhood poverty in the United States, and it is estimated that one in five babies in our state go to bed hungry. Infant Crisis Services (ICS) is a nonprofit agency that provides the basic necessities of life to over 12,000 babies and toddlers in central Oklahoma each year to help fight those numbers.

ICS recently added two additional locations in order to better serve Oklahoma families in need of formula, baby and toddler food, diapers, blankets, clothing and other basic necessities in times of crisis.

“Transportation is one of the main reasons families in need cannot access our services,” said Miki Farris, ICS executive director. “We hope these branches will eliminate that problem.”

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held recently to commemorate the opening of two new branches in the metro area. In addition to the main location (4224 N Lincoln Blvd), ICS will also offer appointments in the new Variety Care Branch (4230 NW 10th St) and in the INTEGRIS Southwest Medical Branch (4200 S. Douglas Ave). The Variety Care Branch is open Tuesdays from 9:00am-3:00pm, and the Southwest Medical Branch is open Thursdays from 9:00am-3:00pm.

The main location continues to offer appointments Monday-Friday, 9:00am-3:00pm and Saturdays 9:00am-noon.

“Infant Crisis Services is very excited about our partnership with these two organizations,” said Farris. “We hope to serve 2,000 babies and toddlers this year through these branches.”

Families are served by referral and appointment. To learn more, call 405-528-3663 or visit infantcrisis.org.

College Night 2010

Ready for Home Alone?

The fourth annual FAA Credit Union’s College Night features area colleges, trade schools and military organizations offering teens and their families information about the variety of available higher education options.

College Night features a financial aid seminar hosted by the University of Phoenix, along with free food provided by Jason’s Deli and door prizes.

By Judy M. Miller

•

The College Night will be held Thursday, October 7, 6:00-8:00pm at 10201 S Western, OKC. The financial aid seminar will be held at 6:00pm. To learn more, call Katie Gillian at 405-682-1990, extension 1089.

• www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

to know what to do in case of a fire, basic first-aid, and how to call 911 and other emergency numbers if necessary. He knows not to tell someone he is home alone. He knows not to open the door while you are gone and what neighbors to call or go to when they need help.

He knows where your safe meeting place is in case anything should happen. In addition, you need to: Decide what appliances he can use.

Have guidelines in place for having friends over, TV, video games, and outside time.

Show him where the firstaid supplies, flashlights and batteries are.

Need to run a few errands? Get out for awhile? Around the time your child reaches the preteen years, staying home alone may be an option.

But, how do you know your child is ready? Consider the following:

“This is the fourth year we’ve hosted this exciting event,” said Steve Rasmussen, President and CEO of FAA Credit • Union. “This was a shared vision of our staff and some area teachers. The combination of offering financial aid seminars and education choices is something that isn’t commonly found at other college fairs. This event is especially great for students • because it allows them to visit with a number of prospective schools in an environment that holds no bias towards any particular school.

Besides having large universities, we also have trade schools and military organizations—there is something • for everyone.”

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Miki Farris, Infant Crisis Services executive director, was joined by (left to right): Carol Martin, with Variety Care; Dr. Edward Co, M.D., Pediatrician at INTEGRIS Southwest Medical Center; and Pat Dorris, President of INTERGRIS Southwest Medical Center at the ribbon cutting.

September 2010

He’s indicated that he wants to stay home alone. Your child is seeking more independence and has asked you to leave him alone.

He follows your directions and rules. Your child has shown you that they can follow your rules, even when you’re not right there.

You’ve witnessed your child making good choices without your input.

He is reliable and self-sufficient.

Daily chores are done with little or no reminders. Your child can safely prepare snacks or simple food when they are hungry. They know how to use the microwave and toaster.

He knows how to use the telephone. Your child can answer the phone appropriately. They know it’s okay to fib in this instance, when you are away from the house, saying that you’re unavailable, and how to take a message correctly.

He understands safety. He needs

If he’s ready, here are things to keep in mind: •

•

•

Transition your tween’s alone time. Begin slowly leaving your tween, five to ten minutes the first time and build from there.

Keep a list of emergency contacts and numbers—include all of your numbers as well. Make sure your tween knows where the list is.

Check in with him. Stay in contact with him, assuring them that you’ll be home soon.

September is Lice Prevention Month

It’s not a problem most like to discuss, but head lice are an unfortunate part of back to school. Each year between six and 12 million people worldwide get head lice, and children are the main carriers.

What exactly are head lice? They are small, wingless insects that live on the human scalp. Lice are more common in girls than in boys and are most prevalent in ages three to 12. There is a misconception that those with lice are dirty or poor; but lice actually prefer clean hair and do not discriminate.

To avoid the spread of lice, encourage your child to avoid sharing hats, hairbrushes and other personal items. But if lice does affect your family, here are a few tips to deal with it: • Vacuum carpets and upholstery in the house and car. Discard combs, brushes and barrettes or wash them in hot water for 20 minutes and soak in rubbing alcohol for one hour.

• Machine-wash linens, bedding and clothing in hot water. Place in hot dryer for 30 minutes. Dry-clean stuffed animals or place in an airtight plastic bag for three weeks.

• Home treat with oil. Coat the entire scalp and hair with olive oil or mayonnaise after combing out nits. Cover with a shower cap or towel and leave for two hours (minimum). Examine the scalp and remove any existing nits. Repeat every four days as needed for three weeks.

Courtesy of Dr. Lauren Feder, author of Natural Baby and Childcare and The Parent’s Concise Guide to Childhood Vaccinations.

Choctaw Oktoberfest

Celebrate German heritage in Choctaw at the 20th annual Oktoberfest festival, held September 8-11 at the Festival Pavilion in Choctaw Creek Park (located on Harper Street, just south of NE 23rd Street in Choctaw).

The family-friendly festival includes children’s activities in the Kinder Zelt, featuring face painting, crafts, and a variety of games and activities including inflatables.

The festival will be open Wednesday from 5:00pm-midnight and Thursday-Saturday from noon-midnight. The BMW, Mercedes, Porsche, Audi and VW Clubs Car Show is held Saturday at 2:00pm. General admission is $5, and children under 12 are free. For more information, contact Old Germany restaurant (405-390-8647, oldgermany.com) or the Choctaw Chamber of Commerce (405-390-3303, choctawfestival.org).

Museum of Osteology

Where in Oklahoma can you see the fully-articulated skeleton of a 40-foot humpback whale? This nearly 2,500-pound skeleton (which was featured on the Discovery Channel’s program “Dirty Jobs”) can only be found at the new Skulls Unlimited Museum of Osteology (which means the study of bones, skulls and skeletons).

“This is the only museum that focuses just on the skeletal system,” said Skulls Unlimited Director of Education Joey Williams. “Groups can come here and learn about the form and function and some of the adaptations of the skeletal system.

We also focus a lot on classification, so we have the different taxonomic [the science of the naming and classifying of living things] groups of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, a little bit of everything.”

The museum’s 300-plus skeletons on display (representing a small fraction of the skeletons in their collection) focus on the form, function and adaptation of animals from all corners of the world in a 7,000 square foot space that has been over seven years in the making. The museum will offer programs, hands-on activities and self-guided tours to groups and individuals.

The museum is scheduled to open to the public on October 1, 2010. Hours will be Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm, with weekend hours not yet determined. Admission will be $5, with children under 3 admitted free (one child per adult); group rates will be available, applying to groups of 20 or more.

To learn more about the Museum, call 405-814-0006 or visit museumofosteology.org. To learn more about Skulls Unlimited, call 405-794-9300 or visit skullsunlimited.com.

Photograph of Museum of Osteology exhibits courtesy of Skulls Unlimited, Inc. September 2010

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13

Step Out: Walk to Fight Diabetes Executive Director of the American Today, there are nearly 24 million Diabetes Association in Central Oklahoma.

Americans—including 25 percent of residents in the Oklahoma City metro area— “We’re bringing a fun event that is raising money for all people affected by diabetes; who have diabetes. While an estimated 17.9 both type 1 and type 2. Our participants million have been diagnosed, an additional can walk proudly knowing their money 5.7 million people are unaware that they is staying here in Oklahoma and funding have the disease. If present trends continue, local research for a cure. We are the only one in three Americans born in 2000 will organization that supports all people develop diabetes in their lifetime. Each affected and gives back to the community year, diabetes kills more people than breast through our educational programs and cancer and AIDS combined. youth activities.”

This year, area residents are invited to This year, participants will also have a join the movement to stop diabetes at chance to be a part of history as the Step Step Out: Walk to Fight Diabetes. The Out competes to be entered into the 2010 fundraising walk, benefiting the American Guinness Book of World Records for Diabetes Association (ADA), will be held on Saturday, October 23 at the Oklahoma “Largest Halloween Gathering.” The ADA is hoping to beat the current record holder City Zoo, Every dollar raised through Step by orchestrating a gathering of more than Out plays an important role in supporting ADA’s mission: to prevent and cure diabetes 510 individuals in costume. and to improve the lives of all people To register, volunteer or learn more, call affected by diabetes.

405-840-3881, extension 6045 or visit diabetes.org/stepout.

“Diabetes is a devastating disease that touches us all,” said Jennifer Houchins,

Read for the Record 2010 Jumpstart’s Read for the Record is a world record-breaking campaign that brings children and adults together to read the same book, on the same day, in homes and communities all over the world.

The campaign is a first step toward active participation in improving early litercacy skills and Jumpstart is recognized as a one of the nation’s leading nonprofit organization in the field of early childhood education and literacy awareness. You can join the cause by pledging to read to your child every day and to read The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats along with more than 2.5 million children on October 7.

Since its inception in 2006, Read for the Record participants have read classic stories such as The Little Engine That Could (2006), The Story of Ferdinand (2007), and Corduroy (2008). Last year, records were shattered when Eric Carle's The Very Hungry Caterpillar was read aloud to children worldwide. 2,019,752 children joined together and shared in this joyous and important experience—raising awareness of the early literacy crisis and helping Jumpstart raise funds to serve children in need.

To date, Jumpstart has raised $6.2 million to provide books, supplies and programs to children in low-income neighborhoods. Nearly half of all children in these neighborhoods start first grade up to two years behind.

Jumpstart’s research-based curriculum is focused on building language, literacy, social and emotional skills in preschool children, resulting in a lasting impact in communities across the country.

To participate, visit readfortherecord.org/pledge and commit to read The Snowy Day with the children in your life on October 7. After reading on October 7, simply return to the site and confirm the number of children you read to so you can be counted towards the world record. You can also visit readfortherecord.org/donate to donate to the Online Book Drive, which provides early literacy building blocks to Jumpstart children nationwide.

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Fast and Fun Fitness

By Mari Farthing

Now that school is back in session, you’ve got so much free time, right? Right? Okay, well maybe not. But it’s always important to make time for fitness in your day.

As a runner, I’m looking for new, fun fitness ideas to amp up my workouts. Here are some fast fitness ideas that I’m trying out this fall: KettleWorx Kettlebell program (kettleworx. com, $49.95 and up) features a kettle-shaped dumbbell (in 5, 10, 15 or 20 pound weights) used in a variety of DVD workouts. The sixweek basic program features cardio, core and resistance training that can be adapted for novice to advanced exercisers.

For iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad users, the Authentic Yoga with Deepak Chopra and Tara Stiles Application (iTunes App Store, $1.99).

This app includes yoga routines and information that are great for all levels, even beginners. You can win this app if you follow us on Facebook and Twitter! Watch for the request for entries for your chance to win.

For the entire family, Jump Start’s Get Moving Family Fitness Sports Edition (jumpstart.com, $29.99) includes activities such as basketball, dodgeball and racing that will get everyone in your family up and moving (requires a Nintendo Wii).

Great for days when you can’t get the kids outside to exercise.

Remember that before you try any new exercise options, you should check with your doctor to ensure it’s right for you.

Visit my blog, metrofamilymagazine.com/thoughts-from-amilitary-wife-and-mom to follow my fitness progress this fall, and be sure to leave a comment to tell about yours. I’m especially interested in hearing your ideas for fun and fast fitness when your mom time is limited!

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1616 East 19th Street, Suite 304 • Edmond www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

15

Getting Kids to Eat Whole Grains Action for Healthy Kids provides these 10 tasty tips for kid-friendly and nutritious snacks and lunches.

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Buy products whose first ingredient is whole grain, such as ‘whole-wheat’ or ‘whole-grain’ corn. Other whole grains include oats, barley, wild rice, brown rice, and graham.

When should your daughter take the PSAT (Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test)? When’s the best time for your son to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)? Is sophomore year too early to start researching colleges?

Get answers to your questions and keep your high school student college ready with freshman, sophomore, junior and senior checklists from UCanGo2, a college access initiative of the Oklahoma Guaranteed Student Loan Program and the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. These free, downloadable resources help your teen stay on track by outlining tasks that should be completed during each school year.

Use only 100 percent whole-grain bread Sample senior year tasks include: and tortillas for sandwiches and wraps. • Scheduling campus tours If hesitant, give whole-grain white • Taking the ACT or SAT bread a try first.

• Applying for financial aid· Snack on whole-grain cereal with low• Completing admission paperwork fat/fat-free milk.

“UCanGo2 is committed to providing students and parents with tools to plan, prepare and pay Make a whole-grain breakfast burrito for higher education,” said Angela Caddell, OGSLP director for communications, financial by slicing a banana length-wise, then education and outreach. “It’s our hope that families will take advantage of our free materials, rolling it with yogurt or peanut butter in like these checklists, and learn about all of their options for education after high school.” a whole-grain pancake.

Parents and students can download these checklists at UCanGo2.org. Counselors and Top low-fat yogurt with a generous teachers may contact UCanGo2 at 405-234-4457 or 866.443.7420 or by emailing UCanGo2@ sprinkling of oats, or layer with yogurt, ogslp.org to request up to 250 classroom copies of the checklists. oats and strawberries to make a fun parfait.

Snack on baked tortilla chips with chunky salsa—the corn is whole-grain!

Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese for a nutritionally sound treat.

Fill whole-grain pita bread with your favorite lunchmeat and vegetables, or with hummus and cucumbers. Cut the pita into triangles and bake in the oven for easy pita chips.

Choose whole-wheat crust for pizza.

Visit UCanGo2.org to access additional tools for students, parents, adult learners, educators, campuses and community partners, and keep checking our site for new tools currently in development.

Storytime Live!

Your child’s favorite preschool pals will be live, on stage at the Civic Center Music Hall when Storytime Live! comes to town. Leap into Fairytale Land with “Dora the Explorer,” journey through Purewood Forest with “The Backyardigans,” hop into Wonderland with “The Wonder Pets!” and monkey around on The Monkey King Adventure with “Ni Hao, Kai-lan.”

Make pasta salad using whole-grain pasta. If a gradual transition is needed, mix whole-grain pasta with regular pasta, increasing the whole-grain proportion over time.

©2009 Viacom International Inc. Used with permission.

1.

Get College Ready

10. Experiment with lesser-known whole grains such as amaranth, barley, or protein-packed quinoa. Perhaps you’ll find a new family favorite!

For more ideas on helping children boost nutrition by incorporating whole grains and other foods, visit actionforhealthykids.org.

Performances will be held at 4:00pm and 7:00pm, Tuesday September 21. Tickets, starting at $20, are available now at the Civic Center Box Office (405-297-2264) or online at myticketoffice.com.

To learn more about the show, visit nicklivetour.com.

Editor's Note: MetroFamily is giving away three family four-packs of tickets with a chance to meet-and-greet two of the characters from the show! Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/ contests for all the details; contest deadline is September 13, 5:00pm.

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17

Talking To Your Teens About Their Weight: 10 Strategies for Success Are you concerned about your teen’s weight? Are you hitting a brick wall when trying to discuss weight, fitness and health issues with your son or daughter? You’re not alone. Many parents report that this is a particularly tough, and often emotional, subject for parents and teens to discuss. So we’ve asked the experts for tips on broaching this important subject with your child.

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Respect Her Feelings Teens are certainly not alone in their less-than-desirable reactions to the topic of weight, says Steven Crawford, M.D., associate medical director of The Center for Eating Disorders at Sheppard Pratt in Baltimore, Maryland.

“Consider how you, even as an adult, might react if someone— maybe even your own child—commented on your recent weight gain or pointed out that your exercise and eating habits were really unhealthy,” says Crawford. It’s a sensitive topic for a lot of reasons, but more and more because of the intensity with which our culture and the media has placed a focus on weight and connected it to individual self-worth and social status, he adds. “These are, developmentally, very sensitive topics for teens, so some resistance is to be expected.”

Weight is often a tricky subject for moms and daughters, especially, because moms tend to bring their “body baggage” to the conversation, says Dara Chadwick, a journalist and author of You’d Be So Pretty If…: Teaching Our Daughters to Love Their Bodies— Even When We Don’t Love Our Own. “For example, if mom was heavy as a child and found that to be a painful experience, she may want to ‘spare’ her daughter from going through what she went through and may take a heavy-handed or critical approach to talking with her daughter about weight or eating,” says Chadwick.

“Or, if mom works very hard to stay slim, she may feel that an overweight daughter is somehow a reflection on her as a mother,” Chadwick says. “Daughters tend to shut down when they feel they’re being lectured, or when it’s a ‘do I as I say, not as I do’ situation. In other words, mom or dad tells the daughter to go out and play, or get some exercise, from his or her perch on the couch.”

“Stay alert for natural opportunities to discuss healthy living,” says Chadwick. “While you’re in the kitchen together preparing dinner, while you’re taking a walk after dinner, while you’re watching a television show that makes fun of weight or features an actor who’s incredibly thin. Using moments like this helps take the focus off the daughter herself. Instead, it’s a more global discussion, which tends to feel safer.”

Watch the humor. “I’ll admit I’ve made jokes about my size in the past. But those jokes can hurt just as much as criticism,” says Chadwick. “Don’t make your butt the ‘butt’ of every joke. And think twice before joking about your teen’s body or appearance in any way.” Teens are notoriously sensitive and an off-hand joke about clothes, hair or weight can sting more than adults may realize.

“Never yell, bribe, threaten or punish your child about weight, food or physical activity. If you turn these issues into parent-child battlegrounds, the results can be disastrous,” says Dayle Hayes, MS, RD, a registered dietitian in Billings, Montana. “Shame, blame and anger are set-ups for failure. The worse children feel about weight, the more likely they are to overeat or develop an eating disorder.”

So, how should you talk to your children about weight?

1

Focus on Health

Instead of saying, “I’m concerned because you have lost so much weight over the past month,” say “I’m really worried about you because it seems like you don’t have as much

energy lately. Are you feeling OK?” Likewise, instead of

saying “You seem to be gaining weight. You’d better start watching what you’re eating,” it might be better to say “I know you’ve been grabbing a lot of meals on the run lately. Let’s try to make some more time to have family meals together,” and then follow through by planning and preparing meals that incorporate a variety of foods.

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Emphasize Breakfast

“It is vital for teens to have breakfast,” says registered dietitian Joan O’Keefe, RD, a frequent speaker on nutrition at schools and the creator of the “Nutrition 101”

video series (foreveryoungdiet.com). “Their biological

clocks say ‘sleep in,’ but the reality is that they have to get up and they have to have breakfast and it must include protein.”

Protein in the morning will keep kids satisfied and will help eliminate junk food cravings, says O’Keefe. “Protein sources can be fast,” she adds. “Leftover protein from dinner (chicken breast, etc.), yogurt with berries, peanut butter and an apple or whey protein (mix it and go out the door with it) are all easy options.”

3 4 5

Send the Right Messages

“As with any other important issue, make sure that both parents and important relatives are all on the same page,” suggests Hayes. “Sending mixed messages about weight

can also have unhealthy consequences.” If you’re

concerned about other family members having potentially negative discussions with your teen about weight, you may want to share this article with them and talk a bit about the approach you want to use.

Understand Their Bodies

Teens naturally go through a normal and necessary weight gain at the start of puberty, which allows their body to proceed with maturation, says Crawford. As time

goes on, with normal eating behavior, their weight will

level off at the body’s unique set point. Parents who draw negative attention to this period of weight gain could trigger bodyimage concerns and dieting behavior.

Mind Your Media

Introduce your teen to some helpful websites that focus on teen health, such as empowerme2b.org, nflrush.com/ play60 and kidshealth.org (which also has a teen section),” suggests Dallas, Texas registered dietitian Paragi Mehta, RD.

“Together, visit sites such as americanheart.org and diabetes.org,” suggests Mehta. “This is not to scare your teen, but to create an awareness that if we get healthy now, we can reduce our risk of having lifelong disease or health conditions. Explain to your child that diabetes and heart disease are serious, and talk about how making healthy lifestyle choices now can help protect her health in the future.”

While these sites offer positive examples for teens, the same can’t be said of all media, of course. “Have open conversations with your kids about the distorted messages their magazines, and media in general, send to us about weight,” says Crawford. “Remind them that models in advertisements have been retouched and don’t represent what the majority of people actually look like.”

6

Don’t Diet

“Diets can further complicate an already stressful relationship with food and could trigger continued problems with eating for your child,” says Crawford.

“Instead of putting your child on a diet, the goal would

be to work toward normalizing eating behavior, ensuring that they are getting most or all of the necessary nutrients they need in a day, and getting in touch with the body’s natural hunger and fullness cues.”

September 2010

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19

“Always keep the focus on health, rather than weight,” says Hayes.

“Losing weight is incredibly difficult and it is not the only measure of success. If your family starts eating better and moving more, your children may ‘grow into their weight’ as their height increases,” she said.

“Try to make healthy food choices whenever possible, such as a baked sweet potato instead of fries, water instead of soda,” suggests Chadwick. “But don’t point out your choice or make a big deal out of how you’re choosing the healthy version. Kids will tune that out quickly.”

Remember to show that all foods can be enjoyed in moderation.

“Have a treat and enjoy it,” suggests Chadwick. “Show kids that everything—pizza, cheeseburgers, hot fudge sundaes—has a place in a balanced approach to healthy living. When you choose to have a treat, do it mindfully and let your child see you enjoy it. Proclaim it ‘treat night’ and don’t say one word about how it’s going to your thighs or how you shouldn’t be eating it. Just enjoy!”

7

e the Family That Plays B Together

Getting your teen involved in meal planning and physical activities can be a big help, and you can do it without a lot

of talking about “the problem.” Get your teen involved with meal planning, creating healthy grocery lists and the grocery shopping, suggests Mehta.

“Get involved in exercise activities with your teen, [like] kickboxing, martial arts, biking, walking, jogging, tennis, rock climbing or dance aerobics,” suggests Mehta. “Join a health club together or do dance/ exercise DVDs together. This can help with bonding and is a win-

win situation, she says. “You get to spend quality time together, get exercise together, and show how you really care about your health and your family’s health.”

8 9

Communicate

If you’re concerned that your child may have an eating disorder, talk to them without judgement about your fears.

It’s always best to have an open line of communication with your child if possible. “If you do express these concerns to your child, indicate that your primary concern is for her health instead of focusing on the weight or the food she may or may not be eating. Be prepared for her to be defensive,” says Crawford.

Know if You Need Help

If you want to be as informed as possible before you talk to your child or her doctor about your concerns, it can be helpful to call an eating disorder specialist first, suggests

Crawford. Inform him or her of your child’s weight gain/

loss, current symptoms, health problems or any other concerns you might have.

Talk to your child’s doctor about any concerns you may have at your regularly scheduled check ups. Make the doctor aware of your concerns in advance of the appointment so that he or she can plan to ask your child the necessary questions, run the appropriate blood and lab tests and make a referral for recommended treatment.

Also, make sure your pediatrician knows that you endorse a non-diet approach and that you do not want them to focus on the number on

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September 2010

the scale or discuss a need for weight gain/loss in front of your child, Crawford advises.

10

Know When to Get Out of the Way

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket, Crawford stresses. It’s common for parents to take their concerns to a pediatrician who may not be familiar with eating disorders and, thus, may not take the appropriate steps. If your pediatrician dismisses symptoms and you still have concerns, follow up with an evaluation by an eating disorder specialist, he suggests.

Don’t hesitate to ask for help, and don’t be offended if someone else is able to get through to your child more easily than you are. “Often a teenager that continually shuts down when confronted by a parent will respond more openly to the concerns when they are expressed by a doctor, school counselor or even a friend,” says Crawford.

Kathy Sena is a freelance journalist who frequently covers health issues and teens. Visit her parenting blog, Parent Talk Today, at parenttalktoday.com.

Could My Teen Have Serious Problem?

If you’re concerned that your child is underweight or is losing weight, pay attention to their behaviors, suggests Steven Crawford, M.D., associate medical director of The Center for Eating Disorders at Sheppard Pratt in Baltimore, Maryland.

Some potential red flags: • Large or sudden shifts in weight in either direction • Continual fluctuations up and down in weight • Cutting out entire food groups (like fat or carbs) from the diet • Counting calories or adherence to “diets” • Frequently weighing oneself • Evidence of binges (large amounts of food disappear) or purges (odor of vomit, diet pills, excessive exercise, etc.)

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Wasn’t it just yesterday that your child was eager to please you, proudly displaying the bed she made all by herself? Now, as a teen, she’s more interested in her friends’ approval than yours, and her bedroom, despite your continual requests to clean it, is covered with dirty laundry and projects.

While the scenario is normal, it’s challenging to discipline teenagers with their raging hormones and nagging negative behaviors, said Amy McCready, founder of Positive Parenting Solutions. Parents often react in ways that hurt their relationship with their teen.

“Part of the normal development process for teens is to separate from us, but that invokes fear in most parents and they respond by ‘clamping down,’” said McCready, a certified Positive Discipline Educator and mother of two sons, ages 12 and 14. “Instead of respecting the child’s need for greater autonomy, parents attempt to exert more control, which escalates power struggles.”

The peer group takes precedence over the family in the teen years. “This is perfectly normal, but parents often feel hurt by this and take it personally,” McCready said. In addition, teens often feel that parents are against them, instead of on their team, which again invites power struggles, she said.

The following are some ways to discipline teens using positive strategies:

1 2

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Set limits. “It’s a teenagers’ job to push that fence as far as they think they can go,” said Cindy Ericksen, a licensed marriage and family therapist. “It’s your job as a parent to push the fence back for them and to set limits.” It’s not an easy road to find a healthy balance of giving and taking, said Ericksen, who raised three teenagers. “You can’t be your teenager’s friend, but you can remain in a ‘good relationship’ with her,” she said.

Be clear about rules. Practice “fair and firm” discipline, McCready said. “Clearly communicate your rules and limits,” she said. “When establishing new rules, get input from your teen when appropriate. Be very clear about the rules and ask your teen to repeat back the rule and the consequence if she decides to test the limits.” Being clear about the rules ensures that both you and your teen are on the same page, and there’s no ambiguity, McCready said. “Be sure to state that you won’t be issuing reminders or second chances,” she said. “Your teen will be in charge of determining whether or not she gets to maintain her privileges.”

Put it in writing. Write out the rules and consequences, as well as expectations for chores, and post where your teen can easily see them, Ericksen suggests. “It becomes less personal and makes it very clear,” she said. “Teens don’t like being told what to do, so if you put it in writing, it’s fitting for them.”

Focus on the lesson. Teens are reluctant to disclose the truth with parents because they know it may be met with criticism, lectures and disappointment. “Instead, recognize that your teen will make foolish mistakes and will test the limits, but use those opportunities as learning events,” McCready said. Hold your teen accountable for his behavior, but focus more on what he learned and how he’ll do things differently in the future.

“If your teen knows that you are on his side and care about keeping him safe and helping him learn for the future, he’ll be less likely to sneak around and test the limits,” McCready said.

Don’t lecture. If your teen makes the wrong choice, implement the agreed upon consequence with dignity and respect, McCready said. Again, refrain from lectures and I-told-you-so’s, which increase a teen’s hostility, she said.

“After everyone is calm, be sure to debrief with her about what she learned and how she’ll do things differently next time,” McCready said.

Relate consequence to misbehavior. The consequence of breaking a rule should be appropriate, Ericksen said, and www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

September 2010

directly relate to the rule that was broken. For example, if your daughter arrives home late, let her know how many minutes past her curfew she returned. Make her come home that much earlier the next time she’s out. This gives her more motivation to comply with your rules, Ericksen said.

7

Demand respect. Another tactic Ericksen found effective with her teens was paying her back for the minutes they were late. When her children were late, she spent that time waiting feeling extremely worried. As a payment for lost time, she took her son grocery shopping to help her, and made her daughter clean out a closet. “They learned to be respectful of me,” Ericksen said. “They could have called me if they knew they were going to be late. Our job as parents is to teach our kids about respect and obeying rules. If a punishment is too harsh, and does not directly relate to the broken rule, it’s distracting from what you’re trying to teach them.”

8

Joining your teen’s team. Most teens feel that their parents are against them—not with them, McCready said. When teens feel that parents are on their team, they are more likely to communicate honestly and openly and may actually want to spend time with the family. “Spend one-on-one time with them—on a daily basis—doing what they like to do. Parents often perceive that teens don’t want to spend time with parents, but they do.”

9 10 11

Get into their world. “Show that you’re on their team by getting into their world,” McCready said. Taking 10 minutes once or twice a day to talk, hang out, download music—or whatever your teen enjoys—increases your emotional connection and works wonders in keeping lines of communication open.

Give them responsibility. At the same time, recognize your teen’s growing need for positive power and autonomy. “Instead of ‘clamping down,’ look for opportunities to give your teen more responsibility and decision-making opportunities,” McCready said. “Involve your teen in family decisions when it’s appropriate.”

Say, ‘I Love You.’ While he may shrug his shoulders, don’t stop hugging or saying, “I love you” to your teen, Ericksen said.

“React to your teen out of love, not fear,” she said. “Think about the relationship you want to have with him when he’s 25. Ask yourself how you are going to get there.”

Kim Seidel is an award-winning writer and editor, and the mother of two daughters, ages 12 and 8.

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Tutoring and Test Prep

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Parents: The new school year has started.

The first few weeks are very important for setting a good foundation for the rest of the year. Here are some steps that you should take right away.

1. Make sure that the family calendar is in sync with the school calendar. This will help in planning vacation times and times when you may need to arrange for extra care for your children.

2. Attend back-to-school or meet-theteacher evenings, along with any other special meetings that affect your children. It’s a quick way to become acquainted with your children’s teachers and find out what will be expected of your children.

3. Read the school handbook so that you are familiar with school procedures.

You will learn how to report absences, handle medical appointments, drop off or pick your child up at school, and contact teachers to arrange for conferences or to discuss any problems that might be going on at home. When everyone follows the same procedures, it definitely makes life a lot easier for the office staff and will help you avoid making mistakes in dealing with the school.

4. Take the time to fill out all parent information cards. Make the appropriate changes if you move, change jobs or get a new phone number.

Schools need to be able to get in contact with you quickly if there is an emergency. If these cards are out-ofdate, time may be wasted in trying to contact you.

5. Get involved in some school activity.

You will learn so much more about how the school operates and become better acquainted with teachers, staff and other parents. Find an area where you are able to participate. Since many parents work, most schools now have functions for parents before school, in the evening and on weekends. Schools also offer opportunities to help with one-day activities such as field trips, sports days and science-fair days.

Looking for more information on back to school topics? Visit our website and search “back to school” to find additional things that should be done at the start of the school year.

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September 2010

Major School Illnesses Question: What are the main illnesses causing children to miss school? How can they be prevented?

– Health Conscious

Answer: Large groups of children are breeding grounds for the organisms that cause illnesses. After the first few years of school, children’s immunity improves. Here are the top illnesses that keep kids home from school:

• Colds. Young children usually have six to ten a year.

• Stomach flu. Second most common ailment in school age children.

• Ear infection. Most common before five years of age.

• Pink eye. Can be highly contagious.

• Sore throat. Only a small number are the result of strep throat.

The single best way to prevent illnesses is to have children wash their hands frequently.

Pushing Reading Too Soon Question: Where we live, it has now become the norm that children must know how to read simple stories when they enter kindergarten. Is this expectation a reasonable one?

- Questioning

Answer: Reading is much like walking and talking, every child will have his or her own timetable. Of course, early instruction will result in some learning to read.

Unfortunately, there are a great number of children who aren’t ready to take this step.

Many countries delay reading instruction until children are seven years old.

Expecting all entering kindergartners to read is not reasonable and sets children up for an early failure in school.

Dear Teacher is written by Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts. Do you have a question? Send it to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or visit DearTeacher.com.

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27

Oklahoma Reads The Teen and Tween Edition Tweens & Teens

Aim High: 101 Tips for Teens

The Blue Umbrella

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by Brad Berger and Kalev Pehme (Aim High! 101 Tips, LLC, softcover, $9.75)

Short and direct guidance on things that matter—from morals (“Take pride in acting correctly”) and attitude (“Look for the good in every experience, situation, and person.”) to dreaming (“Dream the possible and the impossible.”) and playing (“Find an activity that you enjoy and have fun doing it.”)

A fantastical adventure tale that delves into the idea of good versus evil.

The first of a promised series will please readers both young and old.

William Shakespeare: His Life and Times (Templar Books, hardcover, $19.99) A beautifullyappointed oversized volume that will immerse readers in the world of William Shakespeare.

Includes background on popular writings, plus maps and recreations of letters and writings. A must for lovers of literature.

Advice from teen guru Josh Shipp (a former Oklahoman featured in the October 2007 issue of MetroFamily Magazine), this title is billed as a “survival guide for the millennial generation.”

Shipp’s irreverant style of writing is sure to engage and inspire.

A Smart Girl’s Guide to Parties and A Smart Girl’s Guide to Style (American Girl, softcover, $9.95 each)

Parents of Teens Talking Sex with Your Kids

by Amber Madison (Adams Media, softcover, $14.95)

Brightlyillustrated and smartly-written guides to help young girls navigate the sometimes difficult waters of their social lives with style. When your daughter won’t listen to you, these guides provide good advice from their peers.

What Color is Your Parachute for Teens

by Carol Christen and Richard N. Bolles (Ten Speed Press, softcover, $15.99) Are your concerns about the current economy causing you to worry about your child’s economic future? This title will help your kids to develop a blueprint of their future career choices.

The Teen’s Guide to World Domination

by Josh Shipp (St. Martin’s Press, softcover, $14.99)

As parents, there may be no conversation we fear more, but our children need to hear it from us. A very frank discussion on the details of human sexuality that provides parents a valuable resource of information and statistics that will help when it’s time to sit down for “the talk.”

You're Grounded Forever… But First, Let’s Go Shopping

by Susan Shapiro Barash (St. Martin’s Press, softcover, $24.99) Most mothers of daughters will tell you that their relationship can be a challenge, and this book strives to help mothers and daughters find common ground. Whether your daughter is three, 13 or 30, there is helpful information here for navigating that sometimes complex relationship.

Grandparents Celebrate Grandparent’s Day with your family on Sunday, September 12.

The Grandparents Handbook

by Elizabeth LaBan (Quirk Books, hardcover, $16.95) The relationship between grandparents and their grandchildren is a special one. This book provides lots of great ideas for activities that grandparents can share with their grandchildren. Helpful reference for new grandparents who may have been out of the parenting game for a while.

Grandloving

by Sue Johnson with Julie Carlson and Elizabeth Bower (Heartstrings Press, softcover, $18.95) The winner of six national parenting awards and currently in its fifth edition, this book offers advice from families around the world, ideas for holidays and traditions, fun activities for grandchildren from babies to teens, and a list of helpful resources and books.

Reviews by MetroFamily Magazine editor Mari Farthing.

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September 2010

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29

Your Healthy Family Adolescent Depression: Could Your Child Be at Risk?

F

or children and parents alike, adolescence is a time of transition and self-discovery. Many of us look back on our adolescence and literally cringe at certain memories. For me, there are a number of “AHA!” moments as I look back on my middle and high school years, as I can literally see the formation of some of my adult behaviors. Adolescence is always challenging, as teens struggle to gain independence and handle the increased responsibilities that come along with it, all the while trying to adjust to a host of physiological changes that occur. While adolescence can be traumatic, most kids will adapt to these curves in the road with time and patience.

Some kids, however, will develop symptoms of clinical depression during adolescence, which parents and educators may dismiss as normal adolescent behavior. It’s important to understand the signs and symptoms of clinical depression in this age group, as it may manifest differently than in adults.

Depression and Adolescents Clinical or major depression can affect people of all ages, including teens.

Depression affects a person’s thoughts, feelings, behavior, and physical health. In adolescents, depression left untreated may lead to school failure, alcohol or drug use, destructive behavior, and even suicide.

While the exact cause of depression is hard to pinpoint, it is most likely a combination of genetic, biologic, and environmental factors. So how can parents and guardians tell the difference between normal adolescent stress or sadness and major depression?

Dr. Louise Thurman is a board certified psychiatrist and is the CEO and Medical Director of IPS Research Company. Her primary focus is clinical research in mental illness, and one area of particular interest is childhood and adolescent depression.

“Most of us recognize depression as sadness, loss of interest in things, maybe trouble sleeping, and feelings of hopelessness. In adolescents, it is not uncommon to see kids that feel very overwhelmed, appear irritable, and have a ‘bad’ attitude toward things they used to love, all the while denying that they feel sad or down.” While many adolescents go through periods in which they feel overwhelmed, depression is much more than that. “Kids with depression often lose interest in everything, including their 30

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friends and their usual activities. They tend to take on a brooding, angry mood.” Dr. Thurman acknowledges that some teens that will display symptoms similar to those common in adults. “The challenge is looking at things over time. Is this a short mood swing associated with the trauma of going through adolescence, or is this something more pervasive?”

The pressures of adolescence can be intense.

Not only are these kids trying to figure out who they are and what they want to do in life, they are more aware than ever before of how they appear to others. According to Dr. Thurman, brief periods of mood swings, tearfulness, and irritability are not unusual, but if changes are really dramatic or last longer than two weeks at a time, it may signal a bigger problem. For a teen struggling with depression, “Things seem ten times harder,” says Dr. Thurman.

“Even simple things like getting dressed in the morning or organizing your things for school.”

Parents need to be especially aware of the risk of suicide in teens. “Sometimes kids will get so frustrated or overwhelmed that they may take an overdose of something just to avoid an unpleasant consequence or emotional conflict. They think they’ll just sleep for awhile, and they don’t really understand how lethal an overdose can be.

It’s important to take any suicide threat or behavior seriously in teens.” In fact, Dr. Thurman notes that approximately 15 percent of people diagnosed with major depression commit suicide. There are a number of resources available in our community, including HeartLine. “Just dial 211. They have a 24-hour cell service and can refer people to get the help they need.”

have to know what to do with it once you have it.”

In addition to counseling, antidepressants may be prescribed for children and adolescents diagnosed with severe depression. “These medications have been found to be safe and effective in teens.

It’s important to work closely with your doctor during the first couple of months of treatment, so you can report any problems.

There are different types of medications available, and some work well for one person and not at all for another, which is another reason for frequent follow-up.”

Keys to Understanding Dr. Thurman cautions parents, educators, and teens alike, “Do not underestimate how serious depression can be.” In addition to the elevated suicide risk, mental health problems are the leading cause of days off from work, loss of income, and early mortality. “Depression is not having a bad day, or feeling sorry for yourself, or eating a pint of ice cream because your boyfriend broke up with you. It’s a serious illness that prevents people from doing what they need to do to take care of themselves and their families.”

Still, the best news is that in most cases, treatments really do work. Dr. Thurman notes that “By partnering with a doctor and therapist who can develop a good treatment plan, teens can recover and get back to living.”

Shannon Fields is a freelance writer and a Certified Pharmacy Technician at Innovative Pharmacy Solutions.

Treating Depression in Adolescents According to Dr. Thurman, “The first step to good treatment is finding out what a person wants to happen as a result of them getting some help. Then you work with them to help them get there.” While there are a number of different types of talk therapy that may be effective, Dr. Thurman finds cognitive-behavioral therapy to be particularly effective with teens. “It teaches you to think about situations in more helpful and healthy ways, and helps you find new ways to behave that produce the results you want. Teens like this because it is more focused on results than hashing out details of why you think you are the way you are. Gaining insight is helpful, but you

September 2010

Find more articles at

MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ family-health

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31

Family Finances Teens and Money

“M

y kids think money grows on trees!” How many times have you heard parents say something like that? Young shoppers today spend over $170 billion annually—double the amount from ten years ago. Marketers consider them the “perfect” shopper because they tend to spend freely and impulsively, two habits which will quickly wreck a family’s finances.

Parents play a critical role in shaping their children’s values and attitudes about personal finance. While you may think it’s a challenging topic, the Schwab 2009 Teens & Money Survey found that almost twothirds (64 percent) of surveyed teens said financial fitness is more important to them than physical fitness. Helping your children establish good financial habits at a young age provides encouragement for continuing those behaviors into their adult life.

Following are a few points to consider when discussing money with young people:

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• Ask them to set small goals. Whether they like to play video games or wear designer clothes, parents can use their teen’s interests as an opportunity to help them understand the idea of saving to meet their goals. Setting and meeting small goals sets the pattern of saving for future wants and needs. Once they master the small goals, start setting larger goals such as saving for a car or a college education. At this point, you may want to open a savings account at your local bank or credit union. You may even add an extra incentive by agreeing to match their savings up to a certain amount or for a specific period of time.

• Give your teen an allowance or payment for doing household chores.

Even though it is “their” money, you may want set conditions for how the funds can be spent, such as lunch money, school supplies, charitable contributions, clothing or whatever you determine to be the appropriate use of the money. It is also important to give them input in the planning process of their personal budget so they have a clear understanding of the expectations.

You may also want to include a small percentage of “fun funds” for them to spend as they want. Be sure they are also

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September 2010

required to save a small percentage of their allowance to meet their personal goals. Having them set a budget and spend their own money allows them to learn personal responsibility.

• Help your teens determine the differences between “wants” and “needs.” Buying a new pair of shoes because the old ones are too small is a need; buying a new pair of shoes only because everyone else has them is a want. Knowing the difference doesn’t preclude you from making the purchase, but it does help them start thinking about what they actually need instead of focusing solely on their personal wants.

• Encourage young people to help when paying the bills. Whether using online banking or writing checks, young people can open envelopes, log payments, file statements or attach mailing labels.

By assisting you, they start to learn about the family’s overall expenses, the importance of maintaining good records and the habit of paying bills on time.

• Model good money management.

Young people will quickly pick up on your own behavior with money and will tend to repeat it. If you have problems with overspending or recreational shopping, then have a family meeting to discuss ways to trim spending and improve the family savings. Also discuss fun things to do as a family that are either free or low cost instead of spending time at the mall. Regardless of what you say about managing money, children will tend to follow what they see you do.

Research shows that financial stress can be just as damaging to our health as smoking, heart disease or diabetes. Teaching young people how to spend and save responsibly will reduce the potential for making costly financial mistakes in their own lives. So, the next time your child wants a new bike, skateboard or ballet lessons, use it as an opportunity to talk about wants and needs, budgeting, and saving for future goals.

Sue Lynn Sasser, PhD, is an associate professor of economics at the University of Central Oklahoma.

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33

Eating right is no picnic. Just when you think you've got it all figured out, along comes a new report trumpeting the benefits of yet another good-for-you food. Sure, some of them are winners. But many are not: They’re simply victims of too much health hype. (Don’t worry—we’re not afraid to name names.)

Here are ten supposed superfoods whose powers you may be overestimating—and ten that aren't getting the credit they deserve.

Great Pretenders 100-calorie snack packs. Research shows that buying snacks in single-serving 100-calorie packs can help you eat less. “They’re effective for portion control for about 70 to 80 percent of the population,” says Brian Wansink, Ph.D., director of the Cornell Food & Brand Lab at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York and author of Mindless Eating. But what if you’re among the 20 to 30 percent who may actually eat more by buying these products? “Because 100-calorie packs are small and convenient, they might actually lead you to eat them more frequently than you otherwise would,” Wansink says. They do a fair job of limiting how much you eat at a given situation, but the fear is that you might end up eating them more frequently because they’re portable and heck, they’re only 100 calories, Wansink says.

Cottage Cheese. You'd think those creamy curds would be full of calcium, but they rate only 106 mg per cup. Better: calciumenriched cottage cheese (400 mg) and low- or nonfat yogurt (350 mg).

Diet Soda. Zero calories, yes, but zero nutrients, too. For only 90 calories, you can have a glass of skim milk—and 350 mg of calcium, points out Liz Marr, R.D., an American Dietetic Association spokesperson in Denver. Regularly drinking soda instead of milk now could lead to osteoporosis. Moreover, scientists in Boston found that drinking one or more regular or diet colas every day doubles your risk of metabolic syndrome—a cluster of conditions, including high blood pressure, elevated insulin levels, and excess fat around the waist, that increase your chance of heart disease and diabetes. One culprit could be the additive that gives soda its caramel color, which upped the risk of metabolic syndrome in animal studies. Scientists also speculate that soda drinkers regularly expose their tastebuds to natural or artificial sweeteners, conditioning themselves to prefer and crave sweeter foods, which may lead to weight gain, says Vasan S. Ramachandran, MD, a professor of medicine 34

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September 2010

at Boston University School of Medicine and the study’s lead researcher. Better choices: If it’s fizz you're after, try sparkling water with a splash of juice.

Granola. The fat content of a half-cup serving rivals that of a McDonald’s hamburger—and the fiber count is mediocre. A better bet: any unsweetened cereal with “bran” in the name.

Honey. Nutrient-wise, honey is roughly equal to white table sugar.

Instead, opt for molasses, which has traces of potassium, calcium and iron.

Rice Cakes. Not only do they taste like cardboard, they have about the same nutritional value—“very little,” says Colleen Pierre, R.D., a dietitian in Baltimore.

Spinach. It’s full of iron—but also full of oxalic acid, which keeps iron from being absorbed. Don’t skip spinach entirely, though— it’s still high in fiber, beta-carotene and vitamin C.

Tofu. For years, soy protein has been thought to be good for your heart. But a report by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (an arm of the National Institutes of Health), which evaluated 68 randomized studies, found that no conclusions could be drawn on the beneficial or harmful effects of soy protein and cardiovascular disease. “Soy protein just doesn’t have a big effect on heart disease risk,” concludes Alice Lichtenstein, DSc. Still, if you eat soy foods like tofu, which are low in artery-clogging saturated fat, instead of say, red meat (which can be a sat-fat haven), you may come out ahead.

Wheat-Grass Juice. Other than chlorophyll, which humans don’t need, this healthy-foody drink has no nutrients.

Zucchini. Squash the thought that zucchini is anything more than 95 percent water. Reach for yellow butternut or acorn squash instead.

Unsung Heroes Avocados. Yes, they contain fat. But it’s mostly monounsaturated— the type that lowers artery-clogging cholesterol. Look for those with smooth skin, which are lower in calories and fat than the rough-skinned variety.

Bell Peppers. Once for ounce, green peppers have twice the vitamin C of oranges; red or yellow peppers have four times as much— plus the antioxidant beta-carotene.

Chocolate syrup. It’s made with cocoa, not cocoa butter, so it has only 50 calories per tablespoon—and virtually no fat.

Lean Beef. The best food source of iron is also high in immunityboosting zinc, reports Felicia Busch, a registered dietitian in St. Paul, Minnesota. But be a red-meat minimalist. The latest research shows that having more than 18 ounces of red meat like beef, pork and lamb per week (about 2.5 ounces per day) can increase the risk of colorectal cancer.

Natural fiber. Beans, peas, lentils, sweet potatoes, oatmeal, pears, bulgur and raspberries are all high in fiber. Most of us get just 14 to 17 grams of fiber per day, but adding just 10 more grams to your daily fiber quota can reduce your risk of dying from heart disease (the nation’s number-one killer) by 17 percent and from dying in general by 9 percent, according to a Netherlands study. Researchers credit dietary fiber’s super powers; it reduces total and LDL (the bad) cholesterol, improves insulin sensitivity and blood pressure.

Purple food. Concord grapes, blueberries and red wine all get that deep, rich color from polyphenols—compounds that reduce heart disease risk and may also protect against Alzheimer's disease, according to the new research. Polyphenols help keep blood vessels and arteries flexible and healthy. “What’s good for your coronary arteries is also good for your brain’s blood vessels,” says Robert Krikorian, PhD, director of the Cognitive Disorders Center at the University of Cincinnati. Preliminary animal studies suggest that adding dark grapes to your diet may

improve brain function. Furthermore, in a recent human study, researchers found that eating one or more cups of blueberries every day may improve communication between brain cells, enhancing your memory.

Rice. The Japanese consume more than 150 pounds per person of this low-fat carb each year; Americans, a paltry 25 pounds each.

No wonder Japanese culture is one of the world’s leanest, with one of the greatest life expectancies (an average of age 82 for both men and women compared to age 78 in the U.S.).

Sorbet. With less fat than frozen yogurt and only 100 calories per half cup, brands made with fruit juice (check labels) are a sweet way to get vitamin C. Strawberries. A half cup has double the fiber of a slice of wholewheat bread and more folic acid than an orange.

Tea. Both green and black teas contain a concentrated dose of catechins, substances that help blood vessels relax and protect your heart. In a study of more than 40,500 Japanese men and women, those who drank five or more cups of green tea every day had the lowest risk of dying from heart disease and stroke.

Other studies involving black tea showed similar results. You really need only one or two cups of tea daily to start doing your heart some good—just make sure it’s a fresh brew. Readyto-drink teas (the kind you find in the supermarket beverage section) don’t offer the same health benefits. “Once water is added to tea leaves, their catechins degrade within a few days,” says Jeffrey Blumberg, PhD, a professor of nutrition science and policy at Tufts University. Also, some studies show that adding milk may eliminate tea’s protective effects on the cardiovascular system, so stick to just lemon or honey.

Sandra Gordon (BabyProductsMom.com) is the mom of two and the author of eight books.

September 2010

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35

The Alert Parent Thoughts on Protecting vs. Micromanaging Your Tween

I

f I take a realistic look at myself, I tend to be overprotective of my daughter. I’m no helicopter mom, but my methods probably would give Lenore Skanzy—the New York columnist famous for allowing her nine-year-old to ride home on the subway alone—the heebie jeebies.

In my defense, protecting a preteen or younger child is not the same as micromanaging that child. Protecting keeps your children safe. Micromanaging has you doing things the children should be handling for themselves, which keeps them from becoming self-reliant.

How can parents who shelter and protect also raise a self-reliant child? Maybe Lenore would think we couldn’t. I disagree.

There are many things we can do.

For starters, we can help them learn how to solve their problems. The operative word here is “help.” If we fix every problems for them, we aren’t teaching anything. We don’t need to clean up their messes or their mistakes. I can’t tell you how many times I have stopped myself from picking up clothes scattered in all the wrong places of our house. Even though I have to fight every

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fiber in my being NOT to pick up the mess, I wait and let the person who threw the clothes on the floor clean up.

Give your child as many opportunities as possible to be in charge while you are in the background ready to help if needed. Again, the operative word is “help.” Recently Addy and a pre-teen friend joined me on a trip to New York City. I asked them to serve as our guides in the airports. “Tell me how to get to our next gate,” I would say. I gave hints when the girls needed them, but they served as our navigators and directed us to all the right places, getting us there on time.

There’s more we can do. We can take our child to open a bank account so he can manage his allowance money. We can help our child launch a business enterprise. In our community there is a book store that will buy used books. Whenever Addy wants extra money, she collects books from friends and relatives to sell to the store.

In It’s Not That Complicated, Douglas Peine says that “The vast majority of successful parents in our society are not psychologists; they are those who, rich or poor, sophisticated or naïve, are able to commit nothing more than their love and fundamental common sense to the task of raising their children.”

And that ‘common sense’ part is key. We want to make sure we do things that help our children to be responsible while creating good habits. We can do this by giving and monitoring chores. We can also do this by allowing them to make age-appropriate choices—like when they will do their homework or what they’ll be

When parents are protective, children have plenty of safe space for learning to make the choices and take the responsibility that make them self-reliant.

Allyn Evans (TheAlertParent.com) is a published author, professional speaker and consultant residing in Stillwater.

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Something we started early on with Addy was talking to her about “taking care of her business.” We tell her the more she takes care of her own business—meaning the more responsible she is—the less she’ll find us in her business. When we’ve had to step in—let’s say to monitor homework more closely—she gets it. She understands that if she starts taking care of her business, then we’ll be less involved in the details of her life.

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doing after school on any given day. For the younger kids it can be as simple as asking, “What’s your pleasure tonight? Ham or turkey?”

September 2010

Looking for fun and family-friendly fall events?

Our Fall Activities listing will be posted at metrofamilymagazine/fall-fun by

September 15!

Disney on Ice’s Let’s Celebrate features four fun-filled classic and current Disney stories.

Enjoy a winter wonderland with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, a Halloween haunt with the Disney Villains, A Very Merry Unbirthday Party, A Royal Ball with Disney Princesses and more in a magical medley of holidays, celebrations and festivals from around the globe.

Ten performances will be planned from September 16-21, during the Oklahoma State Fair.

Ticket prices range from $14-$35 with special opening night seating for just $10. Purchase tickets early to get a free State Fair gate admission. Call 405-948-6700 or visit okstatefair. com for more information.

Oklahoma Wildlife Expo

Guthrie’s Lazy E Arena is the place to be to learn about all things natural at the 2010 Oklahoma Wildlife Expo. Scheduled for September 25-26, the expo will feature exhibits, seminars, clinics, workshops and demonstrations that focus on wildlife and outdoor life activities.

Activities available to visitors include a range of outdoor recreational opportunities such as archery, fishing in a stocked pond, shotgun shooting, kayaking, mountain biking and ATV riding. Visitors also can shop at the Outdoor Marketplace, where businesses will be selling gear and services for sportsmen. This year’s Expo also will feature popular demonstrations and miniseminars on subjects such as like wild game calling, hunting dog training and performances, wildlife photography and more.

The Wildlife Department partners with a wide range of other state agencies, private individuals and outdoor-related companies to host the free event, which is designed to provide hands-on learning opportunities for all types of outdoor enthusiasts while promoting and instilling an appreciation for Oklahoma's wildlife and natural resources.

The Expo will be open from 8:00am-6:00pm each day, and admission is free. Visit wildlifedepartment.com to learn more.

September 2010

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Quick reference Weekly events American Banjo Museum 9 E Sheridan Ave, OKC 604-2793, banjomuseum.org City Arts Center Fair Park, 3000 Pershing Blvd, OKC 951-0000, cityartscenter.org Fine Arts Institute of Edmond 27 E Edwards, Edmond 340-4481, edmondfinearts.com Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art 555 Elm Ave, Norman 325-3272, ou.edu/fjjma Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum 13th & Shartel, OKC 235-4458, oklahomaheritage.com Little River Zoo Hwy 9, Norman 366-7229, littleriverzoo.com Myriad Botanical Gardens Closed for renovations; opening in 2011.

297-3995, myriadgardens.com National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC 478-2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org Oklahoma Aquarium 300 Aquarium Dr, Jenks 918-296-FISH, okaquarium.org OKC Museum of Art 415 Couch Dr, OKC 236-3100, okcmoa.org OKC National Memorial 620 N Harvey, OKC 235-3313, oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org OKC Zoo 2101 NE 50th St, OKC 424-3344, okczoo.com Oklahoma Children’s Theatre 2501 N Blackwelder, OKC 606-7003, oklahomachildrenstheatre.org Oklahoma History Center 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr., OKC 522-5248, oklahomahistorycenter.org Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History 2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman 325-4712, snomnh.ou.edu Science Museum Oklahoma 2100 NE 52nd St, OKC 602-6664, sciencemuseumok.org Do you have an event for our calendar?

Send an email to Calendar@MetroFamilyMagazine.com 38

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FREE Norman Sooner Mall Outreach Story Time is an interactive story time held outside Sears in Sooner Mall for ages 9 and under. Tuesdays, 10am.

FREE Art Adventures at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, Activities for children ages 3-5 with adult. Tuesdays, 10:30am.

FREE Admission at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art on Tuesdays. 10am-5pm.

Family Fun Night at JumpZone (SW 104th & Western) 4:30-8pm every Tuesday and Thursday. 2 adults, 2 children, 1 large pizza, 2 liter pop for $25. For open play hours call 200-1691, JumpZoneParty.com.

Ongoing events sept 3-Oct 24 FREE Andean Dreamers: Pre-Columbian Inca Textiles at Shawnee’s Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art (1900 West MacArthur, Shawnee) examines the important role that textile arts played in Andean society.

Open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 1-4pm.

878-5300, mgmoa.org.

through sept 4

FREE Wednesday Night at the Movies at the Downtown Library, 6-8pm. For all ages. Held every Wednesday of the month. 231-8650.

Romeo & Juliet presented by Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park at Bicentennial Park in downtown OKC is the tale of the long-standing feud between the Montagues and the Capulets. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm. $10 adults, $8 students / seniors, ages 12 & under FREE. 235-3700, oklahomashakespeare.com.

FREE Thursday Noon Tunes at the Downtown Library, 11:30-1pm.

through september 6

The UCO Jazz Lab features performances each Friday and Saturday at 8pm. $7 adults, $5 age 12 and under.

359-7989, UCOJazzLab.com.

FREE Children’s Storytime at Full Circle Bookstore (1900 NW Expressway) every Saturday, 10:15am.

842-2900, FullCircleBooks.com.

FREE Children’s Story Time at Edmond’s Best of Books, Saturdays, 11-11:30am. 340-9202.

FREE Make & Take crafts at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May, OKC), Saturdays, 11am-3pm. Ages 3 & up. 858-8778, LakeshoreLearning.com.

History Comes Alive Cruises portray Oklahoma history from the prospective of a live re-enactor from the Oklahoma History Center. Round trip $12 adults, $8 for ages 6-12, FREE for under age 6. Departures from Regatta Park each Saturday at noon, Exchange Landing 12:45pm. 702-7755, okrivercruises.com.

Saturday Classic Cartoon Cruises are a fun-filled morning of river cruising while being entertained with classic cartoons, departing from Regatta Park, Meridian Landing and Exchange Landing every Saturday until noon. 702-7755, okrivercruises.com.

Drop in Art at the OKC Museum of Art. Saturdays, 1-4pm. Create art inspired by the Museum’s collection, exhibitions, and special occasions. FREE with paid admission.

FREE Green Earth Gang for ages 9-13. The "Gang" works on conservation projects in Martin Park Saturdays from 2-5pm throughout the school year.

755-0676.

Silly Sundays at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise Dr, Edmond) every Sunday, 1-6pm. Free face painting with paid admission or craft purchase. 340-7584, unpluggits.com.

Sunday Nature Hikes at Martin Park Nature Center.

Guided park tour and nature hike each Sunday 2:30pm.

Reservations and a fee of $2 are required. 755-0676.

September 2010

Prix de West at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is an invitational art exhibit of over 300 Western paintings and sculpture by the finest contemporary Western artists in the nation.

Blue Star Museums is a partnership among Blue Star Families, the National Endowment for the Arts, and more than 700 museums in all 50 states to offer free admission to active duty military personnel and their families. Complete list of participating museums online. arts.gov/bluestarmuseums.

Military Mondays at Frontier City honors military by providing up to four admission for $10 each with presentation of a military ID. 478.2140, frontiercity.com

sept 6-Jan 3, 2011 Jonathan Hils: INTERSECTION, the second installment of the NEW FRONTIERS: Series for Contemporary Art at the OKC Museum of Art, is a selection of large-scale, hand-wrought automobiles by artist Jonathan Hils, expressing the artist’s interest in the American phenomena of oversized vehicles and society’s relationship with them.

sept 9–Jan 2, 2011 La Serenissima: 18th-century Venetian Art from North American Collections at the OKC Museum of Art features 65 works including mythological, biblical, historical, and genre works.

through september 12 Wanderlust: Travel and American Photography exhibit at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art in Norman examines the role American highways and interstates have played in the migratory desires of the American people.

Chocolate, a special exhibition developed by The Field Museum in Chicago on display at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, is a journey through history to explore the plant, the products and

september S M T W T F S the culture of chocolate through the lenses of science, history and popular culture.

Through November

Through September 30

Tierra de mi Familia exhibit at the Oklahoma History Center.

Bubbles & Beauty: Housewives in History at the Edmond Historical Society & Museum examines the changes to the role of the housewife from an 1800s homesteader to today's modern, multi-tasking superwomen. Exhibit features vintage advertising and a variety of artifacts connected to homemakers, 340-0078, edmondhistory.org.

Through November 14 Alfred Ossorio: Gifts from the Ossorio Foundation exhibit at the OKC Museum of Art features 11 works by the artist from 1949-1984.

FREE Admission to the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art in Shawnee allows visitors to enjoy a uniquely broad art collection spanning 8,000 years of human history.

Open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 1-4pm.

878-5300, mgmoa.org.

The Cowboy Way exhibit at the Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum includes a selection of Oklahoma-born artist H. Holden’s sculptures, paintings and drawings.

Through November

Metropolitan Library System mls.lib.ok.us Belle Isle, 5501 N Villa, 843-9601

Through December 12

Bethany, 3510 N Mueller, 789-8363

Another Hot Oklahoma Night Exhibit, featuring highlights of the state's rock and roll history, is on display at the Oklahoma History Center.

Luis Jiménez: The Exhibition at the OKC Museum of Art presents six expressive lithographs by the artist revealing his interests in popular culture, social commentary, and his Mexican-American heritage.

Capitol Hill, 334 SW 26th, 634-6308 Choctaw, 2525 Muzzy, 390-8418

Through October 9

Through Jan 10, 2011

Downtown, 300 Park Ave, 231-8650

Through October

Altered Books at [Artspace] at Untitled features book art by artists from across the United States and Canada, as well as a selection of vintage photographs from the Photographic Society of America collection.

815-9995, artspaceatuntitled.org.

Through October 15 FREE Children's Visual Art Exhibition at the Firehouse Art Center (444 S Flood, Norman) showcases student artwork in different mediums, including painting, collage, and sculpting. Monday– Friday, 9:30am-5:30pm; Saturday 10am-4pm. 3294523, normanfirehouse.com.

Through October 31 FREE “RETROspective" at Red Earth Museum & Gallery includes rarely seen art pieces from the museum’s permanent collection that reflect American Indian art styles from the 1930s-1980s. 427-8079, redearth.org.

Flying High and Crash Landing: Bull Wrecks in Rodeo at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum features the photography of Ralph R. Doubleday, Devere Helfrich and Bern Gregory focuses on wild bull rides and wrecks.

Through 2011

Del City, 4509 SE 15th, 672-1377 Edmond, 10 S Boulevard, 341-9282 Midwest City, 8143 E Reno, 732-4828 Ralph Ellison, 2000 NE 23rd, 424-1437 Southern Oaks, 6900 S Walker, 631-4468 The Village, 10307 N Penn, 755-0710

The Uncanny Adventures of Okie Cartoonists at the Oklahoma History Center explores how Oklahomans have played a major role in the evolution of comic books, comic strips, and editorial cartoons by creating some of the most recognizable characters in American popular culture.

SEPTEMBER 1 • Wednesday

Warr Acres, 5901 NW 63rd, 721-2616 Harrah, 1930 N Church Ave, 454-2001 Jones, 111 E Main, 399-5471 Luther, 310 NE 3rd, 277-9967 Nicoma Park, 2240 Overholser, 769-9452 Wright Library, 2101 Exchange, 235-5035

FREE Wide-Open Wednesdays at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum offers free

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September 2010

Pioneer Library System pls.lib.ok.us Blanchard, 300 N Main, 485-2275 McLoud, 133 N Main, 964-2960 Moore, 225 S Howard, 793-5100 Newcastle, 705 NW Tenth, 387-5076 Noble, 204 N 5th, 872-5713 Norman, 225 N Webster, 701-2600 Purcell, 919 N Ninth, 527-5546 Shawnee, 101 N Philadelphia, 275-6353 Tecumseh, 114 N Broadway, 598-5955

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

39

admission each Wednesday through November 17.

Also held 9/8, 15, 22, 29.

4-6

9 • thursday

2 • thursday

FREE 32nd Annual Arts Festival Oklahoma at Oklahoma City Community College features original artwork and handicrafts, live performances, and food.

Parking $5. Saturday-Sunday, 10am-9pm, Monday 10am-5pm. 682-7576, occc.edu/afo.

Psychology of Spending Money program for adults at the Earlywine Park YMCA (11801 S May, OKC), hosted by the Pioneer Library System. 6:30pm.

5 • sunday

FREE 103rd Cleveland County Free Fair at Norman’s Cleveland County Fairgrounds includes animals, carnival rides and a midway. 360-4721, clevelandcountyfair.org.

High Tea with Mrs. Mannerless at Unpluggits Playstudio is not your ordinary tea party, with a focus on good manners. FREE with paid admission. Noon.

340-7584, unpluggits.com. Also held 9/16 at 4:30pm.

Cocktails on the Skyline on the roof terrace at the OKC Museum of Art features live music, a full bar, complimentary chips and salsa and salse and an incomparable view of the OKC skyline. 5-10pm. Also held 9/9, 9/16, 9/23, 9/30.

FREE Fall Concert at Edmond’s Mitch Park Ampitheatre features the pop music of Easy Street.

6:30pm. 359-4630, visitedmondok.com.

FREE Forever. For Real Relationship Strengthening Workshop for couples at Edmond Seventh-Day Adventist Church (13812 Scott, Edmond) teaches couples practical ways to improve communication, strengthen commitment and find more fun in their relationship. Thursdays through 11/30. 6:30-8:30pm.

641-8621, foreverforreal.com.

5-11 First Responders Week at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History provides FREE admission for all first responders, including EMTs, Police, Fire Department, 911 operators and emergency room personnel and their families. Sunday 1-5pm, MondaySaturday 10am-5pm.

6 • monday

FREE Melody Hounds Music Class at the Norman Public Library is a musical event designed to increase the musical literacy of children ages 3-7. 7pm.

FREE Admission to the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on the first Monday of each month. 10am-5pm.

3 • Friday FREE StoryTime at Gymboree Penn Square, first Friday of every month, 10am. 842-7540.

7 • tuesday

Ceramic Workshop at Unpluggits Playstudio for adults ages 14 and up. Staff will be on hand to watch younger children for regular admission price. $20 includes supplies. 10:30-Noon. 340-7584, unpluggits.com.

Toddler Time at Mustang Community Center (1501 N Mustang Rd) is designed for children ages 5 and under with parent on an indoor playground. 9am-noon. $2 or FREE with Recreation Center membership. 376-3411, cityofmustang.org. Also held 9/14, 21, 28.

Extreme Sports Expo at Science Museum Oklahoma celebrates the opening of the new Omnidome movie Extreme about extreme sports with BMX demonstrations, a climbable rock wall and prizes.

Adults $12, children/seniors $10. Preregister. 6-10pm

The Taste of the South fundraiser featuring food from 22 restaurants plus silent auction benefitting community agencies. Held at the Moore Norman Technology’s South Penn campus (SW 134th & Penn). Tickets only in advance; 354-5763 ext 7404 or mntechnology.com.

3-4 FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo District features more than 60 artists. Friday, 6-10pm; Saturday, noon-5pm. 525-2688, thepaseo.com.

4 • saturday Train Rides at the Oklahoma Railway Museum leave the Oakwood Depot at 10am, 11am, noon, 1:30pm 2:30pm on the first and third Saturday of the month. $10 age 15 and up, $5 age 3-14, FREE under 3. 424-8222, oklahomarailwaymuseum.org. Also held 9/18.

Shiver Me Timbers, It’s a Pirate Party at Unpluggits Playstudio lets parents drop little pirate off for an evening of rowdy pirate fun and games! $25 includes pizza dinner. Second sibling or friend $20. 6-9pm. 3407584, unpluggits.com.

The Loose Caboose Festival on Main Street in Purcell is a family-oriented festival with food, fun, music, art, crafts, antiques, and collectibles. 9am-4pm. loosecaboosefestival.com 40

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

After School Ceramic Workshop at Unpluggits Playstudio for ages 7-12. $20 includes supplies.

4-5:30pm. 340-7584, unpluggits.com. Also held 9/21, 4pm.

FREE Monthly Mini Model Build at Penn Square Mall’s Lego Store. Build a new model every month on the first Tuesday, 5pm. Quantities limited. For ages 6-14. 840-9993, Stores.Lego.com.

8 • Wednesday Gallery Talk at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum is a discussion and tour of Wanderlust: Travel and American Photography by University of Oklahoma Associate Professor of Photography Todd Stewart. FREE with paid museum admission. 1:30pm.

Back to School Movie Night at the MAC at Edmond’s Mitch Park. $5 per person. 7pm. 359-4630, visitedmondok.com.

September 2010

9-11

8-11 Oktoberfest at Choctaw's Creek Park features homemade German goods and continuous live entertainment for all ages, plus German dance groups, crafts and activities for children. Rain or shine. $3 admission, FREE for kids under 12 years. 390-8647, choctawfestival.org.

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

FREE LIVE on the Plaza held in the Plaza District the second Friday of each month, featuring an artwalk, local artists, live music and shopping. NW 16th between Classen & Penn. 7-11pm. plazadistrict.wordpress.com.

FREE INTEGRIS Women’s Health Forum 2010 at the Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker, OKC) features a free public lecture by world-renowned mind-body healing expert Deepak Chopra, M.D., best-selling author of more than 55 books, including 14 bestsellers on mind-body health, quantum mechanics, spirituality and peace. 7pm. 951-2277, integrismindbodyspirit.com.

35th Annual Renaissance Ball benefiting the Oklahoma City Museum of Art at the Oklahoma City Golf and Country Club is a black-tie affair inspired by the Museum’s upcoming fall exhibition, La Serenissima: Eighteenth-century Venetian Art from North American Collections. $300 per person. 7pm-12am.

10-11 Oklahoma Storytellers Festival in OKC’s Kerr Auditorium features four renowned storytellers from across the country in evening performances, late-night ghost stories for adults, professional workshops and a kid-friendly matinee. Tickets $3-$15 per event, 2704848, artscouncilokc.com.

34th Annual Western Days in downtown Mustang includes a chili cookoff, carnival, rodeo, parade, car show and pancake breakfast. 376-2758, mustangchamber.com.

No matter what the time of year or occasion, you'll find the BEST party-planning choices in the area right here. And, in the October issue, you'll find our huge Birthday Party Guide along with lots of party planning tips and ideas.

To find out how your party business can be included each month AND in the popular guide next month, contact us

TODAY at 405-340-1404 or ads@MetroFamilyMagazine.com.

Deadline for the October issue is September 16th.

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11 • saturday

guests ages 55 and older with FREE admission with the purchase of any $4 child’s admission (ages 3-11).

9am-5pm.

Fall Daylily Sale sponsored by the Central Oklahoma Hemerocallis Society (Daylily Club) at Will Rogers Garden Center (3400 NW 36th, OKC). 8am-2pm.

433-2217.

PKD Walk for a Cure at Lake Hefner’s Stars and Stripes Park includes a scenic walk, music, food, live auction and kids activities to raise funds and awareness for Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD). 9am-2pm. pkdcure.org/elisesolloway Volunteer Orientation at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History. Volunteer information and refreshments provided. 10am-noon. Also held 9/13, 6:30-8:30pm.

13 • monday 22nd Annual Infant Crisis Services Golf Classic at Gaillardia Country Club. Registration, 9am, shotgun start, 11am. 778-7620, infantcrisis.org.

Xtreme Pony Express Rodeo at the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie. 235-RIDE, lazye.com.

Harvest Hike at Martin Nature Park teaches kids about the nutrient-providing trees and plant life that keep the park’s wildlife fed over the winter. $2 per person.

Preregister. 2pm. 755-0676.

Greater Oklahoma Bluegrass Music Society Bluegrass Concert/Jam features three professional bluegrass bands in a family-oriented show at the Oklahoma Country-Western Museum & Hall of Fame (3925 SE 29th, Del City) $6. Children 12 and under FREE. 6:309:30pm. 677-7515, gobms.org.

12 • sunday Oklahoma Bicycle Society’s Streak is a 25M, 40M and 100K tour beginning at Edmond’s Mitch Park (1501 W. Covell Rd, Edmond). Live music and Johnny Carino’s pasta following. Registration at 6am, first riders out at 7:50am. obsstreak.com.

16-26

FREE Fall Concert at Edmond’s Mitch Park Ampitheater features the rock music of Straight Shooter. 6:30pm. 359-4630, visitedmondok.com.

FREE Summer Breeze Concert Series in Norman features the music of John McEuen at Lions Park.

Sunday, 7:30pm. 307-9320, thepas.org.

14th Annual Septemberfest hosted by Governor Brad Henry and First Lady Kim Henry at the Oklahoma Governor’s Mansion, the Oklahoma History Center and the Harn Homestead is a celebration of all things Oklahoma, including arts, children’s activities, interactive exhibits, live entertainment and storytelling.

10am-4pm. 557-0198.

Grandparent’s Day at the Oklahoma City Zoo honors

FREE Punt, Pass & Kick at Yukon High School Football Field is the NFL Football Skills Challenge for boys and girls ages 6-15. Winners have the chance to advance to regionals. Registration at 1:15, begins at 2pm. 354-8442

FREE Nutritious On-The-Go Meal and Snack Ideas presented by the Holistic Moms Network Central Oklahoma chapter. North Atrium of the Moore Medical Center (700 S Telephone) 6:30pm. centralok. holisticmoms.org.

FREE Central Oklahoma Hemerocallis Society (Daylily Club) Meeting at Will Rogers Garden Center (3400 NW 36th, OKC) includes potluck dinner and slide presentation. 6pm. 433-2217.

Frank Lloyd Wright Film Screening at the Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art shows the 1998 film in the Mary Eddy and Fred Jones Auditorium. FREE with paid museum admission. 6pm.

Invertebrate Fossil Dig at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is an exciting journey into Oklahoma’s Paleozoic past for adult participants.

Informative talk on Friday, field trip Saturday to dig site.

Preregister. $55 members, $65 non-members. Friday, 7-8:30pm; Saturday 9am-4:30pm.

15 • Wednesday Tallest Tower Day at Science Museum Oklahoma invites kids to challenge their friends and family to a tower building competition near the Tinkering Garage.

9am-5pm.

16 • thursday FREE Family Game Night at Mustang’s Town Center (1501 N Mustang Rd) held the third Thursday monthly offers a featured game each month, or bring your own.

2010 Oklahoma State Fair at State Fair Park features live performances, exhibitions, food, rides and more. Special promotion days include:

Monday, 9/20: School Kid's Day – FREE admission for kids through grade 12

Wednesday, 9/22: Senior Citizens' Day - FREE admission for visitors age 55+

Regular tickets prices are $8 for adults 12 and older, $5 for children ages 6-11 and FREE for children 5 and under. Tickets can be purchased at the State Fair Arena Box Office, participating Buy For Less locations in Oklahoma City, at tickets.com or 800-511-1552 okstatefair.com. www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

FREE Cherokee Strip Days Celebration at the Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center (507 South 4th Street, Enid) features music and historical demonstrations, authentic historical buildings, and chuck-wagon cooking. 9am-3pm. 580-237-1907, regionalheritagecenter.org.

17-18

• Tuesday, 9/21: Armed Forces' Day – FREE Admission with Military I.D.

42

17 • Friday

Storytime Science at Science Museum Oklahoma has the museum's performer-puppeteer piloting kids through the silliest science stories around. 10:30am & 2:30pm. FREE with paid admission.

• Tuesday, 9/21: Two Dollar Tuesday - $2.00 gate admission for everyone •

FREE Evening With a Curator at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History presents “Mammals of the Cenozoic” by Nick Czaplewski, curator of vertebrate paleontology, focusing on similarities between some prehistoric and modern species and how a study of modern mammals can help scientists better understand those of the past. 7pm.

14 • tuesday

• Thursday, 9/16: Opening Day - $1.00 gate admission for everyone •

Children 10 and under must be accompanied by adult.

6:30-8:30pm. 376-3411, cityofmustang.org.

September 2010

17-25 The Original Children's Consignment Sale, includes clothing, toys, maternity clothing, infant furniture and more. Market Place at Rockwell and NW Expressway next to Tuesday Morning. 10am-6pm daily except closed Sunday.

18 • saturday 3rd Annual Capitol Challenge Run/Walk Fundraiser is a 10K run, 5K run or 1 mile walk/run on the South Plaza of the State Capitol to benefit the Oklahoma Caring Foundation and encourage health and wellness. $25 adult registration, $30 day of event. $10 registration for children’s dashes for ages 9 and under. 8am. capitolchallenge.org.

3rd Annual Hawgs for Hounds Adoption Event & Poker Run at Del City’s Ray Trent Park benefits the Red Dirt Boxer Rescue includes prizes and bbq. $15 rider, $10 passenger. 8am-3pm. reddirtboxerrescue.com FREE Touch a Truck at Mustang Town Center (1501 N Mustang Rd) lets kids touch, look and listen to all kinds of vehicles, including police cards, fire trucks and construction vehicles. 9am-noon. 376-3411, cityofmustang.org.

Dance Classes for All Ages FREE Route 66 Car Show & Craft Fair at Edmond’s Hafer Park (9th & Bryant) features over 200 classic autos, craft fair, food, and family-friendly fun. Proceeds benefit Edmond Family Counseling. 9am-2pm.

341-3554, edmondfamilycounseling.org.

Passport to the World International Children’s Festival at the Edge Church (1515 N Kelly Ave, Edmond) allows children to see and experience nine countries through basic facts, languages, food and activities. Proceeds benefit The Spero Project’s work with foster care and adoption. $10 for children ages 3-12, FREE for foster care and adopted children.

10am-2pm. 524.9146, thesperoproject.com/passport_ to_the_world.

Food 4 Kids Fashion Show at First Baptist Church of Moore (301 NE 27th) includes lunch. Proceeds benefit backpack program at Moore Public Schools. $25, tickets available at Broadway Florist (328 N Broadway, Moore). 11am. 793-8889.

Amanda Westermier Memorial Youth Rodeo & Auction held at Guthrie’s Lazy E arena. 282-RIDE, lazye.com.

Grand Opening Night of the 2010-11 Inasmuch Foundation Classics Series presented by the OKC Philharmonic at the Civic Center Music Hall features pianist Peter Serkin. Single tickets available after Sept. 7. 842-5387, okcphilharmonic.org.

Family Fun Night at Edmond’s Kickingbird Golf Club allows families to play 9-holes, free putting course, $2 range tokens and food discounts. $6 green fees, $6 carts. 5pm. 341-5350, kickingbirdgolf.com.

FREE Movie at the Park at Mustang’s Wild Horse Park (SW 59th, west of Mustang Rd) screens "Grease."

Bring lawn chairs and blankets, concessions available.

Movie begins at dusk. 376-3411, cityofmustang.org.

19 • sunday FREE Family Day at the Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art allows exploration of the museum’s permanent collection and temporary exhibitions and hands-on activities. 1-4pm.

FREE Fall Concert at Edmond’s Mitch Park Ampitheater featutes the jazz fusion music of the Elizabeth Speegle Band. 6:30pm. 359-4630, visitedmondok.com.

FREE Summer Breeze Concert Series in Norman features the music of Sierra Hull at Lions Park. Sunday, 7:30pm. 307-9320, thepas.org.

20-October 6 FREE The Last Land Run: Opening of Kickapoo Territory historical marionette play at the Lincoln County Historical Society Museum of Pioneer History in Chandler performed by professional Oklahoma puppeteer Joann McMillan. Available for groups of 20 or more of all ages and individuals may join groups with reservations. 405.258.2425.

20 • monday Home School and After School Enrichment Program at Christian Life School offers four session classes on topics including art, cooking, cake decorating and wetland preservation. $60, 10% discount for additional children. 4:30-5:30pm. 7940808, christianlifeschoolokc.com.

21• tuesday Nickelodeon’s Storytime Live! at the Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker, OKC) features characters from Dora the Explorer, The Backyardigans, The Wonder Pets! and Ni Hao, Kai-lan in an action-packed on-stage adventure hosted by Nick Jr.'s Moose A. Moose and Zee. Tickets $20 & up, at the Civic Center Box Office, 297-2264 or myticketoffice.com. 4pm & 7pm. nicklivetour.com. See page 12 for more information.

4th Annual Pinwheels for Peace Festival at UCO’s Plunkett Park (100 N University Dr, Edmond) celebrates diversity and unity with a large display of pinwheels made by local art students and artists, live music, multicultural performance groups, speakers, activity booths, educational displays and a drum circle.

1:30pm. castfortheworld.com.

23 • thursday FREE Potluck Pinwheel Quilt Square Exchange at Yukon’s Mabel C. Fry Public Library (1200 Lakeshore Dr, Yukon) allows participants to exchange quilt squares and bring patterns to be compiled into book form. 7-8:30pm. Preregister. 354-8232.

Developmental and Speech/Language Screenings at the Downtown Library by Oklahoma City-County Health Department Child Guidance assess children from birth to age 5 years, answer questions, as well as provide info and ideas for home activities. Small fee is charged. Preregister at 425-4412.

Classes begin August 28th

Why Choose Us Enroll • Ages 2 ½ and Up T oday!

• Small Class Sizes • University Trained Instructor • Professional Floating Dance Floors • Hassle free recitals

Velocity Dance Center

721-8807 • velocitydancecenterokc.com

11122 N Rockwell Ave, Suite A-11 • OKC

Crazy hat day $3 off with hat (Every Thursday 3-6)

• Punky Pottery • Bridal Parties • Teen Parties

• Birthday Parties • Walk-in Anytime

Paint your own pottery studio 7906 N. May, OKC • 842-7770

The ONE Party hosted by the Norman Arts Council is a one-stop opportunity to see, hear, touch and taste elements from an array of Norman-based arts organizations. Ticket required, includes a galleried art show, food tables, games and raffles, and the cabaretstyle show. $40. 7-11pm. normanarts.org.

23-25 Klassy Kidz Consignment Event at the New City Shopping Center (NW 12th & I-35, Moore) features gently-used children’s clothing, shoes and toys.

Thursday 9am-9pm, Friday 9am-7pm. Saturday 9am2pm. klassykidzevent.com.

24 • Friday Movie Night at the Museum at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History screens “Toy Story 3” in the museum’s Great Hall. $5 adults, $3 ages 6-17, children 5 and under FREE. Members receive $1 discount. Galleries open from 5:30-7pm Movie begins at 7pm.

September 2010

Give Your Child A Different Kind of Education...

We teach

Self-Discipline, Respect, and Focus.

Call now about our After-School Program!

4731 SE 29th Street, Del City

www.aama2010.com • 601-0639 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

43

FREE Art After Hours at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art Get discusses aspects of Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s Portrait of Madame Henriot, the Actress, includes light refreshments. 6pm.

Lyric Theatre’s 15th Annual Broadway Ball at the Skirvin Hotel in downtown OKC is a black-tie fundraiser and includes live and silent auctions. $200. 7pm.

524-9310, lyrictheatreokc.com.

24-25 Traditional Cowboy Arts Association 12th Annual Exhibition, Sale and Seminar at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum offers activities showcasing the best of saddlemaking, bit and spur making, silversmithing and rawhide braiding from the members of the Traditional Cowboy Arts Association.

Exhibition continues through 12/5. Preegister.

FREE Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Expo at the Guthrie’s Lazy E Arena features exhibits, seminars, clinics, workshops and demonstrations centering on wildlife and outdoor life activities. 8am-6pm. 522-6279, wildlifedepartment.com. Read more on page 37.

A Day Out with Thomas: The Celebration Tour 2010 at the Oklahoma Railway Museum includes a 25 minute ride on a full-size Thomas engine, meeting Sir Topham Hatt, live music, storytelling, craft tent and more.

Train ride tickets $16 for ages 2 and up. 424-8222, oklahomarailwaymuseum.org. Also held 10/1-10/3.

25 • saturday Smithsonian Museum Day at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History. FREE admission with coupon from Smithsonian Magazine or microsite. smithsonianmag.com/museumday. 10am-5pm.

FREE Early Birds Classes at Capitol Hill Elementary School (2717 S Robinson Ave, OKC) is a school

Karen’s Kids Studio of Dance

FREE TRIAL CLASS Tap ✦ Jazz ✦ Ballet ✦ Modern HipHop ✦ Lyrical ✦ Pom Tec Class

Classes for all ages.

Enrolling Now!

Classes fill up quickly, call today to reserve a spot for your child!

karenkidsrock@sbcglobal.net www.karenskidsstudioofdance.com

732-7722

44

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

Krazy Kids Dog Show at Edmond's Shannon Miller Park (Johnson & First St.near Edmond Library) allows kids ages 4-12 to show off their family dog in a unique dog show. Registration starts at noon, show 12:30-2pm. edmondok.com

25-26

24-26

FREE Shred Day at Allegiance Credit Union (12200 S Western, OKC) allows the community to dispose of sensitive paperwork safely and securely, as well as hot dogs and giveaways. 10am-1pm. allegiancecu.org.

readiness program presented by Smart Start Central Oklahoma for parents of children from birth to 5 years in the OKC Public School District. Info and free resources to help stimulate child development and build skills to be successful in school will be given. Child care available. 10:30am and 1:30pm. jmhibbs@okcps. org. Also held 9/28 at Ridgeview Elementary School (10010 Ridgeview Dr, OKC), 6pm.

26 • sunday FREE Fall Concert at Edmond’s Mitch Park Ampitheater features the 50’s and 60’s music of Mike Black and The Stingrays. 6:30pm. 359-4630, visitedmondok.com.

27 • monday Monday Study Club for mothers of students in 6th grade and older features a presentation by Kathleen Duncan of the Edmond Public School Board to discuss bullying and what parents and schools can do. 3rd Floor of 50 Penn Place. $25 annual dues, $12.50 per meeting for lunch. 11:30am. mallerynagle@swbell.net.

12th Annual YMCA Classic Golf Tournament at Quail Creek Golf & Country Club benefits the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City. 1pm Shotgun start. 297-7753, ymcaokc.org.

Reach over

80,000 readers.

Connect with moms of central Oklahoma.

Call Today!

405.340.1404

September 2010

28 • tuesday Wijeratne, Azmeh, Mayookh Trio at OKC Community College’s Bruce Owen Theatre presents piano, clarinet, and tabla in a fusion of world, jazz, contemporary, and classical music. All ages. 7pm. Tickets $12.50-$24.50. occc.edu/cas.

October 2 FREE Oklahoma Czech Festival in Yukon is one of Oklahoma’s largest ethnic festivals with a carnival, parade, craft booths, music, dancing and food. 8am5pm. 206-8142, oklahomaczechfestival.com.

FREE Baby Bazaar and Car Seat Check at Mustang Town Center (1501 N Mustang Rd) features vendors with gently used & new baby and young children items, clothing and toys. Information on baby safety, infant and child CPR and car seat checks by Safe Kids Oklahoma. 9am-noon. 376-3411, cityofmustang.org.

FREE Global Oklahoma-A Festival of Cultures at Rose State College is a colorful celebration promoting the appreciation of peoples of the world through exhibits, entertainment, food, arts and children’s activities. This year’s focus is Ireland. 10am-5pm.

736-0313, rose.edu.

The Great Escape at Mustang Town Center (1501 N Mustang Rd) for ages 5-12 while parents have a night out. $15 ($10 additional siblings) includes crafts, games and dinner. 6-11pm. 376-3411, cityofmustang.org.

October 1-2 FREE 2nd Annual Rock Island Art Festival at the Historic Rock Island Depot area in downtown Chickasha features live music, fine arts, kids activities and more. 10am-8pm daily. 201-7203, rockislandartsfestival.org.

October 4 FREE Home School Day at the OK History Center includes gallery guides, scavenger hunt, hands-on demonstration and a variety of living-history programs for homeschool students ages 5-18. 10am-2pm.

FREE Admission to the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on the first Monday of each month. 10am-5pm.

October 7-10 The Oklahoma Regatta Festival and Head of the Oklahoma Regatta at the Oklahoma River is a celebration of rowing, kayaking, dragon boating and family fun on the Oklahoma River. Festivities include the Devon Boathouse grand opening, OCU Head of the Oklahoma racing, OGE NightSprints and a family festival featuring live music, entertainment, art, a children’s area, food and fireworks. Thursday, 6-10; Friday, 6-10pm; Satuday 10am-10pm. 552-4040, oklahomariverevents.org.

Celebrating 15 years in OKC/Edmond area!

Ginger’s

of Oklahoma City

Program is proven to:

Call for Edmond Youth Chorus audition

• Decrease frustration • Promote verbal language • Jumpstart intellectual development • Strengthen the parent-child bond

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Ages birth - 7 yrs old

Layaway PLans

40 % off sale

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• All Ages & All Stages • Professional Faculty • Friendly Atmosphere

We offer the most comprehensive line of classes for parents and early childhood professionals.

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Ongoing Fall Classes

722-2379

FINE ARTS INSTITUTE OF EDMOND 27 E. Edwards • 340-4481 www.edmondfinearts.com

Our passion is to provide our clients with loving, smart, healthy labradors that become treasured family members.

Let us know how we can help.

exp. 9/30/10

Showroom inside Jump!Zone S.W. 104th & Western

www.okcplaysets.com 200-1691

Learn more and watch the puppycam at

www.N40K.com

405.260.0766/580.478.3966

School of Rock 15% off any purchase Promo Code: 1015

www.kajeet.com/1015 Winner of 3 parenting awards

Plans starting at $499 No contracts! • GPS locator FREE unlimited online parental controls

1-866-4kajeet

Beginning Guitar Lessons Ages 6 to Adult Call Doug at

Guitar for Kids

NameBrandKidsandBabyClothes.com

Get ready for school with Mad Science Featuring 4 choices for after school classes this fall!

• • • •

NASA Academy of Future Space Explorers The World Around Me: Pre-K-1st Grade Crazy Chemworks Secret Agent Lab

340-8294 Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar & Classical Guitar

www.guitarforcoolkids.com September 2010

Ask at your school or see our website! www.madscience.org/okc • 405-285-9643 After School Programs • In-School Workshops www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

45

Hey, Metro Families!

We want to see your photos.

stang Kaelin B., age 14, of Mu ol at Mustang High Scho

Alexis C., age 10, of Moore at Penn Square Mall

Submit shots of your family out exploring Oklahoma and we’ll put them in our pages or online.

City Roman L., age 9, of Midwest on his first day of school

Austin B., age 4, and Th omas Newalla, heading to sch B., age 6, of ool in Harrah

Miranda F., age 6 and Mason F., age 4 of Oklahoma City on their first day of school

Hey, Metro Families!

We want you to share your photos. Submit snapshots of your child at a birthday party.

We’ll put them all online and select a few to print in our October Birthday Party issue.

Photo submission guidelines and a form to submit your photos may be found at metrofamilymagazine. com/mfm-photo-galleries.

Tips for submitting photos: • High-resolution images (at least 400kb in size, not to exceed 5mb) are necessary for use in print.

• Please include the name of each person in the photo, your hometown and the date and location for the photo.

• Submitted photos will become property of MetroFamily and may be used in future publications or on metrofamilymagazine.com.

Angel C., age 14, of Oklahoma City at the Wes Watkins Reservoir Isabella H., age 10, of Oklahoma City on her first day of school

Single Moms: Would you like to be pampered, refreshed and inspired for a day? for FREE?

Join us at

an annual event for Single Mothers hosted by the Single Parent Support Network Who is invited to this FREE event? Any OKC area single mother or grandmother raising children, including moms with a husband in prison or deployed or that may have an extended bed-ridden illness. Kids of all ages may also attend for FREE! (They’ll be enjoying fun entertainment while you are being pampered!)

Saturday, October 2, 2010 Oklahoma City Community College 7777 South May Avenue

• Be inspired by keynote speaker, Deborah S. Phelps (single mom to Olympic Gold medal winner Michael Phelps) • Shop in our store for something your size...for just the right occasion.

• Gifts and prizes (and MORE gifts and prizes!)

• Manicures and Pedicures

• • • •

Massages Haircuts and up-dos Facials and much more Learn how to help your family write a “family vision.”

• $1,000 in gifts and prizes for the woman chosen “Queen For A Day”.

Register yourself and your children TODAY for this FREE event! Space Is Limited!

Register at www.kfor.com/community/queenforaday • Email: QFAD2010@gmail.com

Sponsors: Ablessedchild.org, Agape Ministries, American Mothers Organization, Amy Michele Boutique, ARBONNE, Arise Ministries, AVON, Body Wrap Spalon, Bott Radio, Captured Moments Photography, Cathedral Of Praise, Character Council of Central Oklahoma, Character First, Damascus Group, Deer Creek Tanning Salon & Boutique, Defining Moments Photography, Destiny Christian Center, Duncan Brothers Salon, Educational Conference, ELC Roundtable, Family ID, Francis Tuttle, FrankWell Property Leasing & Consulting, LLC, Heart & Hand Store, Heritage College, Infinite Grace Ministries, KFOR TV—Channel 4 & 43, KLOVE, KirkLaw Group, Kiwanis,Kiwanis Mayfair Club, Lighthouse Family Church, Little Friends, Lions Club, Mary Kay, MetroFamily Magazine, Metro Tech College, New Covenant Church, OKC First Church of the Nazarene, Oklahoma City Community College, OKC Public Schools, Oklahoma Family Policy Council, Oklahoma State University—OKC, Pace Butler, PrecisionTune Auto Care, Providence Home Health Care, Ratliff CPA, Red Dawn Survival, Rose State College, Secret Garden Boutique, Shardein & Company, Silverleaf Gems, The Accelerated Learning Center, The Gospel Station, The Senior Journal, The Tapestry Project, Valerie’s Gourmet Gifts, Western Oaks Church of the Nazarene