MetroFamily Magazine June 2011

June 2011

into

PLUS Our Annual Party Guide!

• Your best metro-area party options • 7 fun birthday themes to inspire your next party

Summer!

Find over 125

summmer fun ideas

in our calendar Enjoy a visit to Enid’s all-new

Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center metrofamilymagazine.com

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Including daily breakfast Memorial Day to Labor Day

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PARADISE SPRINGS FEATURES: • Sprawling 10-acre outdoor grounds • 600 ft. lazy river • 6,000 sq. ft. family lagoon with walk-in beach • 27 ft. tall winding waterslide • 2 horseshoe-shaped hot pools

• Outdoor game pavilion • Refreshing pool bar & grill • Texan Rocks! all summer long with SummerFest events including POOLA-PALOOZA featuring a live DJ, games, dive-in movies, and more!

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xplore the myth, the legend and the reality of Pawnee Bill at his ranch and home in Pawnee, Oklahoma. See artifacts, art, memorabilia, and live buffalo on the grounds of one of the most famous wild west show showman’s home. The historical re-enactment of the Wild West Show is held the last three Saturdays in June.

Photo Credit: Marvin Bredel

Photo Credit: Marvin Bredel

PawneeRanch &BillMuseum 2011 Show Dates: June 11, 18, 25 Ranch/Museum Hours: April–October: Tue–Sat 10am–5pm Sun & Mon 1pm–4pm November–March closed on Monday & Tuesday

1141 Pawnee Bill Road Pawnee, OK 74058 918.762.2513 PawneeBillRanch.com

NE OKLAHOMA’S GREEN COUNTRY GreenCountryOK.com

800.922.2118 June 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Join the Fun with MetroFamily

1

If you’re a small/medium business owner, register NOW for MetroFamily’s FREE Business Building workshop. Nationally recognized advertising expert David Fowler will give powerful and easy-to-implement tips to build your customer base and increase sales significantly. Choose from one of these dates: Wednesday, June 15, or Thursday, June 16, both held from 9-11:15 at Science Museum Oklahoma. These workshops have limited seating and will fill fast so register TODAY at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/registration.

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Summer is here and so is MetroFamily’s Summer Survival Guide! Featuring 100+ tips for the 100 days of summer, the guide will help your family have more fun (and spend less money). Don’t miss a day at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ summer-survival-guide.

Looking for birthday party venues? A summer camp for your child? Family fun ideas? Check out our comprehensive, searchable calendar and our new directories. By the way, you can now rate and review each business in our directory. Please share your opinion about your favorites with other families in the metro! www.metrofamilymagazine.com/directories.

Looking for one of our handy listings, such as Vacation Bible Schools, local volunteering opportunities, Father’s Day events and Kids Pass? You’ll find these popular and handy guides under our NEW “Top Picks” area on our site. www.metrofamilymagazine.com/top-picks.

Sign up TODAY to receive info about our new Mother Lode program, offering discounts to the local attractions, stores, restaurants and other businesses you love. www.metrofamilymagazine.com/mother-lode

Check out our easy-to-read Weekend Picks e-newsletter (formerly known as E-Update). And follow us on Facebook to vote for your favorite upcoming weekend event, featured in the newsletter as the Facebook Fan Pick of the Week.

Sign up today at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/subscribe-to-weekend-picks.

Don’t miss out on the tremendous SAVINGS available through MetroFamily’s Kids Pass. Printed in the Exploring Oklahoma annual travel guide, the two pages of coupons to 35 attractions across the state are available as a download at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-pass. Most coupons are good through April of 2012!

Enter our Contests

You could win big!

Sign up to be eligible for these great prizes at

metrofamilymagazine.com/contests • Two tickets to American Idol Live! 2011 Tour (July 19). Deadline June 9.

• Three great weekend trips around the state through the Exploring Oklahoma Trip Giveaway. Trips to Tulsa, Oklahoma City and the Oklahoma State Parks are included.

Deadline July 1.

• One of 13 party packages through the ULTIMATE Birthday Party Giveaway.

Most of the parties are valued at $150 or more!

Details on page 31. Deadline July 8.

• Our monthly FS Giveaway includes over $500 worth of fun family products. Deadline June 21.

• Win birthday party products and gifts valued at over $140. Details on page 18.

Deadline June 15.

• One of two four-packs to Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus, to be held at the Cox Convention Center June 23-26. Deadline June 17.

• AND MORE so keep tuned at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/contests!

This Summer, Have Fun Exploring Oklahoma

This Oklahoma travel guide features dozens of ideas for exploring nature with your kids and the money-saving Kids Pass that includes over 30 coupons to attractions across the state.

Co-sponsored by

Find the digital edition and other great Exploring Oklahoma articles at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/exploring-oklahoma

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

Birthday Bash Issue

30

June 2011

Your party planning guide!

The birthday party guide is here, featuring the metro area’s best options for your most fun party yet.

37 Calendar

Dozens of events and activities for family fun and enrichment.

6

Dear MetroFamily Editor’s Note

34 Exploring Oklahoma Find out why Enid’s Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center is perfect for the entire family.

26 Family Finances

The financial considerations of gift-giving.

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16

Make your next party an event to remember with fun themes and party tips.

34

Community news and parenting resources.

22 Focus on Education

“Brain-friendly” teaching strategies in the classroom.

24 Oklahoma Reads

Book reviews for all ages and interests.

48 Photo Gallery

Our readers share photos celebrating the awesome dads in their lives.

Find out why your family should explore the newlyrenovated Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center.

On our cover: Colin McLean, six year old son of Steve and Sarah McLean of Edmond. The McLean family also includes five year old Tatum. The photo was taken near the Metropolitan Library branch in downtown Oklahoma City.

PHOTO BY Randy Coleman Photography, OKC • www.randycolemanphotography.com

Family Shorts

20 Real Moms of the Metro

Rhonda Thomas is passionate about empowering parents, especially single parents.

32 Your Healthy Family

Tips about healthy party snacks including a dip recipe.

June 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Dear MetroFamily readers, School is out! Summer is here! Are we excited yet? Well, parents, if you’re not, I’m sure your children are. And with good reason—summers in Oklahoma mean warm temperatures, refreshing breezes and lots to do. Okay, I may have glamorized that weather information a little bit, but there is still a lot to do!

If you’re planning a birthday party, this is your lucky day! In this issue, you will find our birthday party guide, a party planning feature that will help make your event easy (and fabulous) and details about our great birthday party giveaways.

On a more serious note, I thank all of you readers who prayed for my family through my Dad’s battle with cancer. As reported last month, I was able to go to Wisconsin to visit my parents for what turned out to be the last time. My dad passed away early in May and while it was expected, it was a groundshaking experience for my family.

Although I’m not home in Wisconsin with my family, I’m so fortunate to have many amazing friends in my life. For everyone who offered their kind words, deeds, hugs and shoulders to cry on, I cannot adequately express my gratitude. I’ve now witnessed first-hand the amazing compassion that Oklahomans have when they face a friend in need, and I am truly blessed.

Top photo: At my parent’s 50th Wedding anniversary in May 2007. Back row: Lori, Teri, Kristi, Tami, Juli and me.

Front row: Mom, Randy and Dad.

Until next month!

Cheers!

Middle photo: The kids displaying their Thunder pride!

Bottom photo: The kids with my husband, Tony, after his recent retirement from the Air Force. One of my favorite pictures of my three most favorite people! Happy Father’s Day to an amazing husband and father.

P.S. Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/mari to read my blog, “Keeping it Real,” about my personal adventures in the ups and downs of parenting.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

Info And Questions: 405-601-2081 To submit events to our calendar calendar@metrofamilymagazine.com Publisher Sarah L. Taylor sarah@metrofamilymagazine.com Editor Mari M. Farthing editor@metrofamilymagazine.com Art Director Mitzi Massie mitzi@metrofamilymagazine.com Advertising Sales Athena Delce, Dana Price, Amy Lou Tuzicka ads@metrofamilymagazine.com Office and Distribution Manager Kathy Alberty kathy@metrofamilymagazine.com Assistant Editor Brooke Barnett brooke@metrofamilymagazine.com Business Development Kathryne Taylor kathryne@metrofamilymagazine.com Calendar Editor Sara Riester calendar@metrofamilymagazine.com Special Projects Assistant Terri Fields Contributing Writers Brooke Barnett, Julie Dill, Shannon Fields, Cindy Hudson, Karen Mitchell, Sue Lynn Sasser Circulation 35,000 – OKC, Edmond, Nichols Hills, Norman, Moore, Midwest City, Yukon Also available as a digital edition at MetroFamilyMagazine.com.

Articles and advertisements in MetroFamily do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Inprint Publishing, Inc. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by MetroFamily does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information.

We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

MetroFamily Magazine is published monthly by Inprint Publishing, Inc. 725 NW 11th, Suite 204 • Oklahoma City, OK 73103 Fax: (405) 445-7509 E-mail: info@metrofamilymagazine.com ©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2011, All Rights Reserved.

Volume 14, Number 6

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www.kumon.com June 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Contributing writers: Brooke Barnett, Julie Dill, Mari Farthing

Endeavor Games Showcase “Infinite Possibilities”

Hosting 11 sports competitions from June 10-12, 2011, the Endeavor Games is a nationally recognized competition that allows athletes with physical disabilities to participate in a multi-sport event. Bringing hundreds of athletes with physical disabilities from across North America to the University of Central Oklahoma campus, this year’s Games will celebrate the theme of “Infinite Possibilities.” The Endeavor Games were founded in 2000 and participation has more than tripled since inception.

Athletes ages seven to 22 can compete in the Games to qualify for the National Junior Disability Championship, the largest multi-sport, multi-disability event for juniors in the United States. Competitions include archery, cycling, powerlifting, sitting volleyball, shooting, swimming, track & field, wheelchair basketball and table tennis.

Training clinics are also available for aspiring athletes in many sports, including track & field, archery, cycling, rowing and sitting volleyball.

The Endeavor Games event is endorsed and sanctioned by U.S. Paralympics, National Disability Sports Alliance, Disabled Sports USA, United States Association of Blind Athletes, USA Track and Field and Wheelchair Sports USA. The Games rely on volunteers to help with athletes and families and volunteer registration is available online. Help is needed with athlete check-in, assisting officials during competitions, setting up meals and other duties during the games.

For more information or to volunteer, visit www. ucoendeavorgames. com. For current information, find the Endeavor Games on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ucoendeavorgames.

Question of the Month Mari’s kids won’t eat mashed potatoes.

Julie’s won’t touch meatloaf. Brooke wouldn’t eat macaroni and cheese when she was little. What won’t your kids eat?

Visit www.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, June 21.

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 MetroFamily office, 725 NW 11th, Oklahoma City.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

How Will Your Family Spend Summer Break?

For many kids, summer break means fun in the sun—and a great time to engage in a variety of warm-weather activities and events.

Whether spending time at the pool, at summer camp or just enjoying some down time with loved ones, summer break offers a welcome change of pace and a chance to focus on interests and activities that fall to the wayside during the school year.

Total responses: 145 ■ 19.2% Participating in as many activities as possible, including lasses and drop-in activities.

■ 5.3% Summer camps are what our kids love to do during the summer months.

■ 36.5% We take family trips, either in Oklahoma or out-of-state.

■ 24.1% Enjoying the unstructured vacation days.

■ 6.1% Taking advantage of time to get a leg up on education for next year.

■ 8.8% Other.

Our May Question of the Month asked you to share how your kids will spend their summer break and we found that our readers love to make the most of the summer months. Over 35 percent said they will spend the time on a family getaway, either within Oklahoma or out-of-state. The unstructured days of summer were a big bonus for over 26 percent of responders, with the fun, rest and relaxation playing a large role in summer planning. Classes and activities were the third highest response, with 18 percent of you reporting that you will enjoy as many activities as possible this summer.

For Michelle C. of OKC, this summer will provide a chance to reconnect with her teenager. “With a teenager who works now, it is hard to schedule time to just hang out. I am looking forward to it!”

Joanna M. of Guthrie will enjoy the freedom that the unstructured days of summer will offer her and her toddler. “He’s only 3 so we’ll just be soaking up the sun and playing outside more than usual.”

Stephanie M. of OKC wants to be sure her children have plenty of fun summer experiences. “I just want my children to experience and learn and, above all, have fun with whatever summer brings us.”

Deanna A. of El Reno will hit the road with her family this summer.

“We take family trips, either in Oklahoma or out-of-state. We love visiting places we haven't been to in our state and visiting family and friends out of state.”

Tiffanie C. of Mustang says that family travel is their perfect summer vacation activity. “We take family trips, either in Oklahoma or out-of-state. Because the school year is so hectic, we spend like to spend summers relaxing on family trips.”

Shawnee R. of Yukon won’t let budgetary restraints put a damper on summer fun. “We take family trips, either in Oklahoma or out-ofstate. We try to see family and local things. We want to try and have fun even though we are on a budget!”

As you begin to make plans to enjoy your summer, visit www. metrofamilymagazine.com/may-reader-responses to see all of our readers’ great ideas for summer fun suggested by our readers.

Problem-Solvers

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.

Problem:

That broken arm that happened right at the start of summer.

Solution:

The DryPro Waterproof Arm Protector will keep the cast dry through a summer of water sports. ($36; www.drycorp.com)

Problem:

Watching a movie on your smart phone is awkward.

Solution:

The iChair case props up your iPhone to make it easier to watch.

Also comes in versions for iPod and iPad. ($34; www.goichair.com)

Problem:

You can’t find a sunscreen for your sensitive skin.

Solution:

Kiss My Face products come in spray or lotion form, contain no animal ingredients or artificial colors and are not tested on animals. ($12/up; www.kissmyface.com)

Problem:

Your young one runs away when the sunscreen comes out.

Solution:

UV Skinz clothing is treated to protect sensitive skin from harmful UV rays, no reapplication required. Products for all ages include hats, tops and bottoms. ($15/up; www.uvskinz.com)

Problem:

The summer is long and the children are forgetful.

Solution:

Summer Skills Workbooks for math and language arts will keep school skills sharp for kids preschool-high school. ($19/each; www. summerskills.com)

Character Corner: Initiative

Having initiative means you accept the challenge of being a good example for others to follow. Showing initiative means that you are faithful to your daily plan; it is the first step toward ensuring a secure future for your children.

Even if you're on the right track you'll get run over if you just sit there.

To promote inititive in your home: • Look for ways to actively encourage others ~ Will Rogers by sharing lessons learned.

• Visualize achievement for your children and plan ahead to find opportunities to help them reach their goals.

• Find and finish chores that need to be completed around your home.

Encourage initiative 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 ahead. ... look for ways to help others. ... volunteer. ... make the whole team successful. ... lead by example.

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

Everyday Play: Polka-Dot Shapes & DIY Lacing Cards

Art activities involving paper, pens, markers, crayons and glue encourage creativity while developing fine motor skills. These two activities will give your child a chance to practice grasping different tools and improve wrist strength while creating fun, creative projects. Supplies needed: • 5" x 7" paper (can be construction paper cut in half, index cards or scrapbooking card stock or even old greeting cards) • markers • hole punch • child-safe scissors • yarn, string or shoelaces • tape To make Polka-Dot Shapes: use the marker, draw a large shape across the piece of paper, making sure the lines are near the outside edge. Show your child how to use the hole punch, and then have her try it out, encouraging her to punch along the edge of the shape. It may be difficult at first for her to use both hands, so offer to help hold the paper so she can concentrate on the hole punch until her skills improve.

To make your own lacing cards: use polka-dot shapes from above, or you can repurpose old greeting cards. When using greeting cards, have your child carefully cut away the back of the card. Use the hole punch to punch around the edge of the card, or in a fun design. Use a piece of yarn (cut the yarn just longer than what is needed to thread through the holes, then cover the ends with tape) or a shoelace to lace through the holes.

Remember that the product of the activity is not as important as the process, so have fun developing these new skills.

Problem:

How old is that chili powder?

Solution:

The Teeny Tiny Spice Company of Vermont mixes their spices in small batches for quality and freshness. ($10/each; www.teenytinyspice.com)

Five year old Murphy Barnett tries her hand at the hole punch.

Excerpted and used with permission from the Gryphon House book, Everyday Play: Fun Games to Develop the Fine Motor Skills Your Child Needs for School by Christy Isbell.

June 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Salvation Army Seeking Sponsors to Send Local Children to Camp Hiking in the woods, making crafts, singing songs by the campfire— some of a child’s fondest memories often come from summer camp.

For the most needy children in Central Oklahoma, these simple joys may seem unattainable. The Salvation Army is working to help struggling local families give this opportunity to their children.

“Time spent at camp can be a life-changing experience for kids,” said Major Dan Proctor, Central Oklahoma area commander. “It can instill feelings of self-worth, open up the world and offer hope for the future.”

A $200 contribution will sponsor a child for one week at camp. To become a sponsor, call Richard White at 405-246-1088 or send a donation to Salvation Army Central Oklahoma, Attn: Camp Sponsorship, P.O. Box 2095, Oklahoma City, OK 73101.

For more information, visit salvationarmyusa.org.

Through generous donations from fellow Oklahomans, underprivileged metro-area kids can attend a week-long camp where they play sports, swim and explore the outdoors. And beyond the recreation, they learn how to live together with a diverse group of neighbors, deal and with the concerns that challenge them in their daily lives. Campers enjoy nutritious meals, interact with caring adults who provide guidance and support and learn important life-skills.

The Salvation Army is currently seeking sponsorship for 100 children for summer camp 2011. “I hope the community will come through for these deserving kids,” Proctor said. “For many of them, it's the highlight of the whole year.”

How To Save Like An Extreme Couponer

With the start of TLC’s latest “Extreme Couponing” season, it's a good time to review some basic tricks the coupon pros use. Here are six ways you can save like an extreme couponer.

1.

Ziegfeld-Inspired Event To Raise Money and Awareness for Mobile Meals

Did you know that stage shows, such as the Ziegfeld Follies, were once part of our culture and produced such stars as Will Rogers?

Inspired by the shows of the past, the Oklahoma Senior Follies will provide family-friendly entertainment for all ages and help raise funds for Mobile Meals of Oklahoma County.

The Follies will be held on Saturday, June 11, at 7:00pm and Sunday, June 12, at 3:00pm at OCU’s Kirkpatrick Auditorium (NW 25th Street and Blackwelder.) Jane Jayroe, author, speaker, former Miss America and prime time news anchor, will serve as the Mistress of Ceremonies.

The Follies will feature some of the state’s greatest senior talents of stage, screen, television and radio, with proceeds benefitting Mobile Meals.

A nonprofit organization serving the metro area, Mobile Meals delivers hot, nutritious meals to the homes of approximately 1,000 elderly, frail and homebound citizens. “Mobile Meals of Oklahoma County’s services have been severely impacted by the recent cuts in state funding,” says event sponsor Bobbie Burbridge Lane. “There are many homebound elderly Oklahomans who are at daily risk of going hungry without this incredible program. Since many of them live alone, their food delivery may be the only human contact they have all day. Mobile Meals is not only a hot meal, it is a lifeline.”

Tickets are available at the OCU Ticket Office, 405-208-5227 or okcu. edu/ticketoffice. Basic ticket price is $25, but group discounts are available.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

Start small. Don’t try to go extreme all at once. Take it step by step and learn along the way. Don’t show up at a checkout with 50 coupons and little idea of what you’re doing.

2. Never pay for coupons. Paying someone to clip or organize your coupons defeats the purpose of living frugally. Instead, surf Sunday newspaper ad supplements for coupon savings and ask your neighbors for their unwanted papers. Free online coupon sites like www.couponsherpa.com give consumers access to a multitude of printable coupons to thousands of merchants.

3.

Get organized. A little organization can go a long way. Always create a shopping list and have your coupons and shopping strategy organized before you enter the store. Use an expandable coupon binder to sort coupon inserts by categories and expiration dates. Transfer to a small couponizer only those you’ll need for a specific shopping trip.

4. Location is key. Where you shop matters when making the best use of your time and coupons. Only shop at locations that allow coupon stacking and combining coupons with in-store offers.

Don’t be afraid to call and ask about policies before you show up.

5.

Loyalty rewards. Take advantage of club membership rewards.

These programs are usually free and have many savings perks, like rewards points, cash back programs and double points for certain spending amounts.

6. Don’t be greedy. This is often where extreme couponers cross over into the world of hoarding. Only shop for items you actually need, and stock up on items that aren’t perishable or those you can donate. Remember, a bargain is only a bargain if you can actually use the purchase.

Tips courtesy of consumer savings expert Andrea Woroch, www.andreaworoch.com.

! u o Y

Give Dad His A Celebration RED CARPET COUNTRY Favorite Gift... of Quilts 2011

Friday & Saturday

Father’s Day Portraits by

June 24th- 25th State Fair Park Oklahoma City

www.centralokquilters.org

FREE Session & 8X10 Portrait*

*Includes Glamour Touch® Shots Retouching andQuail Pearlized Paper.

Shipping Mall may apply. one special per customer or 1-888-Glamour Springs •Limit glamourshots.com family during each promotional • period please. Not valid with any other offer.

Offer expires 6/30/11.

Quail Springs Mall • 1-888-Glamour Shots • www.glamourshots.com

Explore cabooses, dining cars, boxcars, freight cars and switcher locomotives. Discover a world-class collection of over 1,000 pieces of dining car china as part of well over 1,000,000 pieces of railroad memorabilia! It’s also one of the few railroad museums in the nation to conduct all-caboose excursions over the rails in May and September.

Hours: Tuesday through Friday 1-4 pm, Saturday 9 am-1 pm, Sunday 2-5 pm.

Free admission (donations accepted)

All Aboard!

702 N Washington • Enid, OK • (580)233-3051

RailroadMuseumofOklahoma.org

(800) 447-2698

Ten Kids’ Classics to Revisit

As much as your kids may love it when you read their favorite books aloud, at some point you’ll probably grow tired of reading the same old titles. Instead of giving up reading aloud to your children, try picking up a more challenging classic. Many classic authors were masterful storytellers, and a good story has appeal for all ages.

Why read books to your kids that they aren’t ready to complete on their own? For one thing, it’s a great way to expose your children to new words. As you go along, ask questions like “Do you understand what that means?” Stories aimed at kids are often funny too, and your kids will love it when you end up laughing together.

Ten classic titles to consider: 1. The BFG by Roald Dahl. Who can resist this softhearted giant who wants to save children from being eaten?

2. Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White. A spider, a pig and one great friendship.

3. The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. A mysterious story of courage and personal triumph.

4. Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle by Betty MacDonald. You’ll laugh out loud at the cures Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle prescribes for common childhood ailments.

5. Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein. Poetry, songs, riddles and drawings, too.

Meet Rhonda Thomas, Local Parent Advocate

Charles is a regular eight-year-old boy, just like you would find in nearly any metro area neighborhood— except he is homeless. He is accustomed to people coming and going in his life, volunteers who may engage with him and his family only once.

One day, Charles told a volunteer: “I bet you won’t be back again.” But he did, the next week and every week after that. Their weekly visits developed into a special friendship between Charles and his volunteer.

In addition to friendship, the volunteer helped him work through significant family issues which became a catalyst for Charles going from a playground bully to a gentle, helpful, compassionate child.

Charles, or someone like him, is living not far from where you work, live or go to church.

Children who are homeless are some of the most vulnerable humans in our country and are representative of a growing epidemic.

Across the United States, more families than ever are feeling the strain of the economic recession and are trying to stretch their limited resources to cover basic necessities. Child and family homelessness is on the rise in all parts of the country. Each year more than 1.5 million American children (one of every 50 children) go to sleep without a home of their own. Sadly, Oklahoma is ranked the 31st worst state overall for child homelessness (according to statistics found at www.homelesschildrenamerica.org.)

Homelessness may seem far too overwhelming and complicated for an individual or family to make an impact, but the Season of Service campaign aims to get you started.

How can you help?

Visit the Season of Service Campaign website (serveok.org) for a list of ideas about how your family can help. A few of this month’s action items include: • Volunteer for Positive Tomorrows Summer Camps.

• Adopt an apartment for a new family through Neighborhood Services Organization.

• Provide kids hygiene kits to the Salvation Army or make other donations.

Remember, change starts with just one person doing something.

6. Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren. There’s almost nothing this positive-thinking spunky kid can't do when she makes up her mind about it.

Camp J.A.M. for Children with Juvenile Arthritis

8. Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder. Tales of a very low-tech past.

As a result of the treatment regimens necessary to manage their disease, it is often impossible for these children to participate in traditional camp and recreational activities. Fortunately, Camp J.A.M (Juvenile Arthritis and Me) provides an opportunity to enjoy the same type of summer experience as their friends. Most importantly, the camp offers a chance to enhance their coping strategies and gives them a welcome respite from the day-to-day challenges of dealing with a chronic illness.

7. The Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary. This mouse can really ride.

9. Bed-Knob and Broomstick by Mary Norton. Travel through space and time with the help of a magical bed-knob.

10. The Neverending Story by Michael Ende-Bastian. A quest to save the fantastical creatures that populate the world of Fantastica.

Add your own childhood favorites for even more books to choose from.

Cindy Hudson is the author of Book by Book: The Complete Guide to Creating Mother-Daughter Book Clubs.

12

Nationwide, nearly 300,000 children face the pain, disability and chronic fatigue of arthritis. Arthritis can strike children as early as birth, affecting both physical and emotional development. There are over 15 types of juvenile arthritis, all of which affect the growth and development of joints and joint movement. Some types also affect the functioning of internal organs, skin and eyes. More than 3,500 children in Oklahoma struggle with the special challenges of juvenile arthritis, for which there is currently no cure.

Camp J.A.M. will be held July 24-30 at YMCA Camp Classen in Davis, Oklahoma. The camp is offered free of charge for children ages 6-16 with a doctor-diagnosed form of juvenile arthritis. The deadline for registrations is July 15, 2011.

“Over the past two years, we have more than doubled the number of participants,” said Sherri O’Neil, Executive Director and Vice President of the South Central Region of the Arthritis Foundation, Oklahoma Chapter. “This camp is designed to bring together kids and teens from all over the state with juvenile arthritis so they can have the opportunity to explore common problems by sharing experiences and solutions, and make life-long friends. Most importantly, the kids and teens with arthritis will be given the gift of spending a week in a place where they can just be kids and teens that are not defined by their disease.”

For more information, to register your child or to make a donation to sponsor a child for camp, call 405-936-3366.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

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June 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

13

Veggiecation—A Nutrition Program for Kids

Looking for a way to keep your children healthy and active this summer? Veggiecation’s At-Home Program may be your answer.

A health and nutrition program, Veggiecation offers kid-friendly activities and introduces new, fun ways to encourage kids to eat their veggies.

According to the Center for Disease Control, childhood obesity has tripled over the past three decades. With that in mind, Veggiecation has made it their mission to educate teachers and parents on how to introduce children to nutrition, hoping to create a new generation of vegetable-lovers.

To help your kids grow to love vegetables, Veggiecation suggests trying these tips: • Always have a plate of fresh-cut veggies to snack on. Repeated exposure is key!

The National Parent Helpline

“The National Parent Helpline replaced hopelessness with hope. My first call replaced helplessness with new ideas,” testifies Art, a father in California, on the National Parent Helpline website.

“Knowing that you’re not a bad parent, that you did not learn good coping skills, can set you free.”

• Let your children help in preparing vegetables. They will be more excited to try something that they had a hand in creating.

• Try a “tasting cup” at home. A small, contained portion of a new food is less intimidating to kids.

• Get crazy with dips! Keep it interesting— try a variety of dips served with raw or blanched veggies. (See page 32 for a quick and easy hummus recipe to try.)

• Ask their opinion. Let them know you want their feedback before they eat something new, and they will be more likely to give it a try.

Veggiecation At-Home provides a family recipe book, two activity books, three sets of “I Tried It” stickers, the “Veggiecation Across the Nation” theme song audio CD and an instructional dance video to keep everyone moving.

For more information and to order the Veggiecation Program, visit www.veggiecation.com.

Silver Phoenix Drama Camptacular

The National Parent Helpline, operated by Parents Anonymous, Inc., opened on February 1, 2011 and seeks to strengthen families by helping parents and building protective factors. Working under the motto of “Asking for Help is a Sign of Strength,” the toll-free service can be reached by calling 1-855-4A PARENT (1-855-427-2736), Monday-Friday, noon-9:00pm.

Every call to the National Parent Helpline is answered by a trained Helpline Advocate who provides support and assistance to parents and caregivers through: • Emotional support using a non-judgmental, active listening approach to achieve parent empowerment.

• Parenting information to assist in finding practical solutions to parenting concerns, including an online resource library for appropriate referrals, transfer for emergency or crisis response or connections to support groups and other services.

• Social support by connecting callers to an online network of parents and caregivers committed to taking a proactive approach to their health, their children's well-being, and the holistic development of their family.

The Helpline Advocate is available to help callers problem-solve, create solutions, explore new resources, connect families with local services and help parents to build their own strengths. Assistance is available in English and Spanish.

“We believe everyone needs a supportive, listening person to reach out to,” states Dr. Lisa Pion-Berlin, the Helpline’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “Prevention is about building on the strengths we all have as parents. It is a daily and lifetime commitment for all of us to provide help, ensure support, build on strengths and secure hope for our future.”

In addition to the Helpline, parents can also visit the National Parent Helpline website (www.nationalparenthelpline.org) for downloadable resource materials, online communities and more.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

Silver Phoenix Camptacular campers perform “The Wizard of Oz” during the 2010 camp session.

The Silver Phoenix Drama Camptacular is a week-long performing arts camp designed to bring out the best in both seasoned performers and theatre beginners. The camp will be held July 11-15 at Oklahoma Christian Academy (1101 East 9th Street, Edmond) and will accept approximately 60 children from age five through entering ninth grade. The camp is based on the successful methods of the Missoula Children’s Theatre, the largest children’s theater the world.

Every camper will be cast in the production and will learn lines, musical numbers and choreography under the guidance of professional actors. The camp will culminate in the performance of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs on Friday, July 15, 7:00pm. In addition to working with the professional actors, campers will participate in theatrical games designed to teach self-confidence and nurture a love of the arts.

“This camp is perfect for all levels of talent,” explains camp director Leslie McElroy. “All children in the camp will have a speaking role and be involved in the musical numbers. It’s exciting to see how the kids grow and blossom in just a week. They just can’t believe what they can accomplish. The transformation is amazing.”

The cost of the camp is $195 and includes a camp T-shirt and two tickets to the performance. Registrations are accepted until the camp is full. For more information or to register, call 405-816-6588 or email thechildrensmusical@hotmail.com.

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June 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

15

to remember They come around every year. So why is it that planning for birthday parties always seems to come as a surprise? This year, do a little pre-planning to create a birthday party that won’t break the bank but will provide fun and happy memories for all attending.

Specialty retailer Party City partnered with celebrity event and home stylist Tara Riceberg to develop party themes for all ages using a variety of items that can make your party frugally fantastic or extravagantly exciting.

• Hang old record albums or make your own out of black poster board for high-impact, low-cost wall art.

Pirate Adventure Party

Riceberg shows how to effectively mix themes in a Pirate Party for boys. This party takes a little bit of SpongeBob and a little bit of pirate and mixes it together for a fun undersea adventure. Her tips for this party:

• Use inexpensive crepe paper streamers to transform your party venue. “Layering bright royal blue and ice blue crepe streamers along the ceiling create an under the Punky Princess Party sea look,” said Riceberg.

“Whether she has Beiber fever or moves like • Provide a treasure chest of Beyoncé, rocking out to the latest pop songs accessories for party guests—eye is what every tween girl wants to do with patches, bandanas, pirate hats her friends,” said Riceberg. For girls, and faux tattoos are fun ways Riceberg developed a party that any for boys to get into the tween diva would love. Her tips for theme. this party: • Extend your theme with a little creativity in the • Put together a playlist of food that you serve on pop songs that will get the the buffet. Use your party girls dancing from the imagination when moment they walk in the labeling platters and door. mini burgers become • Provide a table of glittery “crabby patties” while accessories, including tater tots become sparkling stickers, bracelets, “barnacles.” rings, necklaces, hats, • Send your guests on a tiaras, fluffy petticoats and treasure hunt to find a sunglasses. Attendees can piñata filled with golden coin accessorize on their way into loot, and play games along the party. the way.

• Print out “headshots” of your kids’ favorite teenage dreams and “autograph” them with birthday greetings.

• Use accessories to decorate the venue— fluffy tutus can double as centerpieces or lampshade accessories; Paper Jamz guitars can decorate the walls. At the end of the party, these accessories become the goody bag items for party guests.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

Sports-Themed Party

Have a football (or baseball or basketball) fanatic with an upcoming birthday? Make a tailgate-themed party that will impress any sports fan. Riceberg suggests color-coordinated and teambranded items to make a sports party to remember.

Her tips for this party:

• Use crepe paper streamers and balloons that match your team colors to decorate your venue and make it festive and fun.

• Serve tailgate-friendly food such as ribs, chips, guacamole and burgers. If you can’t find your team logo on your paper or plastic ware, use team colors instead.

• Want to take it overthe-top? “Line the driveway with a ‘green carpet’ of Astroturf, instantly transforming the entry way,” said Riceberg.

• Decorate with miniature footballs, helmets, baseballs, basketballs— accessories from whatever sport you are celebrating.

These items can then go home with your guests in their goody bags, serving a double purpose.

Baby Party

• Apothecary jars or other large, glass containers filled with colorcoordinated candies make a festive decoration and an easy takehome treat for your guests.

• Layer paper plates and plastic chargers to make an elegant table setting.

• Decorate the ceiling with inexpensive paper lanterns or wooden letters suspended from ribbons spelling out the baby’s name.

Backyard Carnival Party

Bring the circus to your celebration with a carnival-themed party! Decorations and activities with a carnival theme will engage guests of all ages in the fun. Tips for a fun carnivalthemed party:

• Serve carnivalfriendly foods like popcorn in paper cups, cotton candy, foil-wrapped hotdogs and shaved ice snowcones.

• Decorate with brightly colored streamers and balloons for a festive look and feel. Bright primary colors like red, blue and yellow will enhance the carnival atmosphere.

• Set up activity booths around your venue with hands-on fun for guests. Include ideas such as face painting, sand art, bean bag toss or a fishing game. Give a ticket for each booth or activity and let guests exchange the tickets for goody bag “prizes.”

A baby-focused theme can celebrate baby’s first birthday or even a baby shower. According to Riceberg, the details are what makes this party theme amazing. Her tips for a beautiful baby-themed event: • Incorporate clothing items when decorating.

“String white baby onesies with clothespins to create a special garland over a fireplace or buffet table,” said Riceberg. Clothing items can double as gifts for the party honoree.

• Think outside the norm for accessories. Use hair bows for napkin rings, cloth diapers for napkins, diaper pins on place cards, centerpieces made of baby toys or books.

•

June 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

17

Girls’ Night Celebration Party

Princess parties aren’t just for little girls—big girls enjoy a blinged-out party as well.

Older girls and adults will enjoy a girly event where the point is to be fabulous.

Tips for a fun girls’ night party: • Greet your guests with a disco ball at the entrance and fun dance music to get them ready to move and have fun!

• Provide fun accessories to get your guests in the mood, including bling body tattoos, animal print cowboy hats, feather boas, sparkly beads or faux oversized gems.

• Decorate with bling, boas and fun accessories. Use unexpected materials like mirrored tiles with lipstick writing for place cards or menu cards. Frame a mirror and leave a few tubes of lipstick nearby so guests can leave a festive party note.

• Create a menu of fun girly “cocktails” and serve them in pretty glasses. What will be included in your Pink Lady or Posh Punch?

• Use bright or wild fabrics in lieu of tablecloths, table runners or wall décor.

Boot Camp Birthday Party

Have a patriotic party in the works? A few simple decorations and activities will send your party attendees straight to a boot camp of fun. Ideas for this party theme: • Serve “field rations” to eat. Use pre-made lunch kits or make your own using a divided tray for each participant.

• Decorate with patriotic colors or camouflage. Provide fun items like bandanas, rubber bracelets, faux dog tags and plastic helmets to enhance the mood.

• Let attendees decorate a helmet or goody bag with patriotic stickers. Give each guest a customized sheet of stickers with their last name on it so they can wear their names on their shirts.

• Make an obstacle course to keep your guests busy.

Incorporate about five age-appropriate activities to get them moving. A few ideas for obstacles: hula hoops to jump onto or hula with; balance beam to walk across (which could be a length of tape on the floor); tunnel to crawl through; or a short ladder to climb up and down.

More Tips for a Memorable Celebration

Your personal touches can be on every part of your celebration, from start to finish.

• Set the tone of the party with your invitations. “Customized invitations give guests a sneak peak of the event and a feel for the atmosphere to be expected,” said Riceberg. Be sure to get coordinating thank you notes when you select your invitations.

• Make food part of the activity—small cakes or cupcakes can be decorated with fun food coloring, icing and sparkly sugars.

If you can’t find the paper goods to match, use bright colors that compliment your theme.

• Did you set the tone of your party with a special playlist? Burn that to a CD and present to your guests as a party favor.

• Take a lot of photos at your event and present your guests with a framed photo before they leave, or with a fun photo book sent with their thank you cards later. What a better way to remember the party than with images from the event itself?

The most important thing to remember when planning a party is to have fun.

Mari Farthing is the Editor of MetroFamily Magazine.

Products and a Giveaway to Make Your Birthday Party Spectacular

• Sew Plain Jane makes fun, hands-on craft ideas for parties. Pick from crowns, capes or aprons and let your party guests make their own customized item to take home. ($9/up; www.sewplainjane.com)

• If you want to decorate with candles but avoid open flames, Enjoy Lighting’s Flameless Candles are battery operated and come in a variety of colors and sizes to suit your needs. Best of all? They never burn down. ($17/up; www.enjoylighting.com) • WikkiStix Travel Fun packs are an inexpensive and creative activity for the party or goody bag. Bendable strings coated with food-grade wax stick to themselves and clean up easily. Birthday Party Packs also make party planning fun and easy. ($2.50/up; www.wikkistix.com) • The party doesn’t have to stop when the sun goes down! Nite Ize makes light-up balls and flying discs that will extend the life of your party. ($10/up; www.niteize.com) • The Easy Playhouse will get your party guests engaged in creating a gift for your birthday child. Kids of all ages will have fun decorating this easy-to-assemble playhouse using markers, paint, crayons, stickers or virtually any other art supply. ($40; www.easyplayhouse.com) Win a package including all of these products, valued at over $140! Visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ birthday-parties by June 15 to share your favorite tip to making birthday parties fun and frugal. Winner will be selected at random from all entries received.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

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June 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

19

Real Moms of the Metro Meet Rhonda Thomas, Local Parenting Advocate

What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?

Most people don’t know that I speak, write and read three languages—English, Spanish and French.

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about helping and empowering other single parents to successfully raise their children.

How has motherhood changed you?

Motherhood has helped me put priorities in order. The responsibility to raise children is the most awesome challenge given to any parent. Being a single mother has taught me that the simple things in life are most precious in the end.

After graduating from college, my goal was to move up the corporate ladder and become a controller. When I arrived at that point of success, the next question was, now what?

Motherhood brought me back to the reality that the investment we make in the next generation is the only noble quest in life.

How do you banish stress?

My favorite stress relief is through singing and dancing.

What inspires you?

My inspiration comes from a deep inner faith and a desire to see our young people succeed.

Do you work? If so, what do you do?

I am the executive director of the Single Parent Support Network (405-

Quick Facts about Rhonda:

1.

What 5 words describe you?

Passionate, self-motivated, positive, encourager and misunderstood

2. What is your favorite indulgence?

Connecting with nature

3. What can’t you live without?

Music

4. What’s always in your handbag?

Pen and paper ready to write down my thoughts or ideas.

5.

How do you spend time alone?

Reading or creative thinking

20

917-1817, www. supportforsingleparents. com) and President and CEO of National Business Concepts (405-503-3296, www. gobizconcepts.com).

What do you like most about your job?

I love to encourage and motivate others to discover the gifts and talents within themselves and to observe as they come alive to a new world that was always awaiting their discovery.

Photo by: Sherry Lynch Photography

M

eet Rhonda Thomas. A single mom of an a nearly 16-year-old son, Rhonda spends time helping other single mothers find their life’s purpose through the business that she founded.

What is on your wish list?

Run a marathon, write a book, travel the world and take a muchneeded vacation.

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of the child that has been entrusted to my care and for the young man that he has become.

What motivates you?

My motivation comes from a greater calling in my life, a vision that my family lives by— to blaze a trail and impact the world.

How do you find balance in your life?

Balance has always been a challenge in my life and I am constantly driven by my passion and vision. I always need to have someone tell me to take a break, take a vacation, you can go home now, etc.

Advice for other moms?

My advice for other moms is to develop a family vision and mission statement. Live by the guiding principles that you have set for your family and develop relationships with your children. It is not about the “stuff,” it is about the relationships.

Where are you from originally? What brought you to Oklahoma?

I am originally from the Caribbean and have lived in Oklahoma for 27 years. The dad of one of my childhood friends was teaching at Southern Nazarene University and he encouraged me to come to Oklahoma and attend SNU. What’s the biggest challenge in your life?

The biggest and most rewarding challenge has been raising my son on my own.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

How do you help others?

Helping others is our daily routine as we reach out to help single parents from all over the city. Sometimes an encouraging word, sometimes a suggestion, sometimes a recommendation of a book, counselor or resource. What ever it takes to help the parent get to the next level.

What is your parenting style?

My style is selling my son on a family vision and mission and funneling every decision that he makes through that vision and mission. It is the most effective selfcorrecting method that I have found with my son. I work on telling him I love him every day and try to daily say thank you for something that he has done.

Favorite quote or advice about motherhood?

“History has demonstrated that the most notable winners usually encountered heartbreaking obstacles before they triumphed. They won because they refused to become discouraged by their defeats.”– Bertie Charles Forbes

Mari Farthing is the editor of MetroFamily Magazine.

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June 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

21

Focus on Education The Brainy Classroom: Brain-Friendly Teaching Strategies

W

alk into Diane Dahl’s second grade classroom at Clegern Elementary in Edmond and you can observe all things “brainy.” From a mass of intertwined chenille stems representing brain connections, to a diagram of what it takes to be good reader (see next page), Ms. Dahl is all about the brain and how understanding students' multiple intelligences and how they learn can make all the difference for student success in the classroom.

“We talk about metacognition a lot, and we start the year off talking about it—the importance of how you learn—thinking about your thinking. We analyze our thinking and learning styles along with our multiple intelligences and we figure out what those strengths are. I make it a point throughout the year to teach to those [multiple intelligences],” Dahl said. She recognizes that every child and every brain is unique, and that children learn in very different ways.

For example, Ms. Dahl explains that she has many kinesthetic learners, who learn by touching or moving. To reach those students, she includes activities such as students spelling words with their finger on a

LEARNING STYLES • The visual learning style uses ideas, concepts, data and other information associated with images and techniques.

• The auditory learning style is dependent on speaking and listening.

• The kinesthetic learning style involves movement or action to learn a concept.

To learn more about brain-based teaching and learning, visit Diane Dahl’s blog at www.fortheloveofteaching.net.

Find links to online resources at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ education.

classmate’s back or writing spelling words in shaving cream. Visual learners may be asked to write spelling words with colored pencils while words are being spelled orally, which reaches auditory learners. This approach caters to each child’s individual needs and Ms. Dahl is seeing success in her students.

One may think that this is a lot to keep up with in a class full of little ones. However, Dahl documents in her grade book each student’s learning style along with their dominant intelligence type to make it easy.

Cross-Curricular Connections

Student interest is key. Once a child finds a topic he is interested in, he can explore that topic across many subjects, such as reading, math, social studies and science.

In a recent study of Japan, Dahl had students

choose a topic they were interested in, join a group and then choose a way to present their information. Students were interested in raising money for the March, 2011 tsunami victims, and they learned money skills while doing so (math). Their presentation of information helped further develop their writing skills as well as oral language skills (language arts), and Japanese culture was learned through discovery (social studies).

“Making the learning meaningful is so important,” she said.

How Can Parents Enhance Their Child’s Learning Style?

Dahl suggests doing a little research to determine your child’s learning style.

(EDITOR'S NOTE: For tips on how to research, go to www.metrofamilymagazine. com/learning-styles.) Once that is determined,

What are Multiple Intelligences?

The Multiple Intelligences theory was described by Howard Gardner in 1983 as a way to better describe “intelligence.” This theory is impacting classrooms today, referring to the uniqueness of each individual learner.

• • • • • • •

Spatial: Visual learner that prefers learning with pictures, shapes, images and space.

Linguistic: Retains best by written and spoken words.

Logical-mathematical: Logical thinker that prefers numbers.

Bodily-kinesthetic: Learns by physical movement, touch and feel.

Musical: Rhythm, music and sounds help this learner.

Interpersonal: Learner who prefers human contact and cooperation.

Intrapersonal: Self-aware of the process of changing personal thoughts; likes selfreflection and self-discovery.

• Naturalistic: Prefers a natural environment, outdoors and nature.

What kind of learner is your child? Find online resources at www.metrofamilymagazine. com/learning-styles.

22

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

cater to his needs. For example, if he is a naturalist and a kinesthetic learner, have him practice spelling words by writing them in the dirt outside. Another example: If he is rhythmic and musical, practice spelling words by adding knee pats or claps with letters or endings (-ed, -ing) to help them remember. “One thing I think is so important for parents to understand is that their children’s brains are absorbing things like a sponge. It’s so important to talk to your children, to read to your children, because they get the oral language development. The more words that they know, the better it is when they start reading because they are able to connect the words that they know. Read, read, read with them. Read to them.

That gets those connections in the brain working.”

Julie Dill is a National Board Certified Teacher from Oklahoma City and mother of two.

Good Readers Infer.

Head:

Eyes:

Good readers look k for clues to draw wc conclusions, make predictions, icttio and more.

Nose:

Importance.

Good readers snif niff out import important tant d dettaiils.

Visualize.

Mouth:

Questions.

Good readers ask questions beffore e, during, and after reading.

Heart: Hands:

Good readers love to make braiin-moviies wh hile read ding.

Schema.

Think.

Good readers rs moniitor their own think nking while reading.

Synthesize.

Good d read ead ders ‘put it a all ll t toget ogether’ to o retell and summarize. summar

Stomach:

Waist:

Purpose.

Good readers read are hungry to connect nec their text to things they alre already know.

Good readers don’t waste time… they choose a purpose for reading and pick the best strategy.

Text Structure.

Monitor Comprehension.

Feet:

Good readers firmly understand the elements of a story and use it to help them understand.

Knees:

Good readers know they need to understand text, and know what to do when they don’t.

For more thoughts on teaching by Diane Dahl, please visit and follow Diane at FortheLoveofTeaching.net and on Twitter at DahlD

June 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

23

Oklahoma Reads Great Reads for Everyone Pre- and Early Readers

Other Goose: Re-Nurseried and Re-Rhymed Children's Classics Retold and Illustrated by J. Otto Seibold (Chronicle Kids, hardcover, $16) Do you ever make up your own words to stories when you read to your kids? This book takes that idea one step further, re-imagining well-worn nursery rhymes with new words and images. A fun read that’s a bit off the beaten path.

Shadow

By Suzy Lee (Chronicle Kids, hardcover, $16) The shadows in this book reveal what is in a young girl's imagination. A tale told entirely through picture pairs that show the reality and the entirely different version that she is imagining.

Messing Around on the Monkey Bars

By Betsy Franco, illustrated

by Jessie Hartland (Candlewick Press, hardcover, $19) A book of school-themed poems that are designed for two to read aloud. A fun exercise in shared reading for you and your learning-to-read little one.

Honoring an Amazing Father

Two Kisses for Maddy

By Matt Logelin (Grand Central Publishing, hardcover, $25) The open, honest and compelling memoir of a single dad whose wife died the day after their first child was born. Expanded from Matt Logelin's popular blog, the book shares bittersweet and often humorous anecdotes of his marriage and family, and how this extraordinary dad has overcome heartbreak to create a life for his daughter.

Grades 3+

D-Day: American Character

By Steve Lessman, paintings

by Christopher Nick (American Character Club, hardcover, $16) The story of D-Day is told in this book through stories of the positive character traits exhibited by the heroes who took part in it.

Honor the memory of this historic battle through moving words and paintings.

American Girl: A Winning Goal

By Laurie Calkhoven (American Girl, softcover, $9) An interactive, “choose your own ending” style of book that lets readers put themselves into the story to decide how it will end.

Will she put the game or her friends first? It’s up to the reader. Includes codes to unlock more endings online.

Grades 4+

Serving award-winning breakfasts and lunches since 1980

Twimericks

By Lou Brooks (Workman Publishing, hardcover, $9) This book of tongue-twisting limericks is designed to be read aloud for maximum fun. Each crazy “twimerick” includes an absurd cartoonish illustration for full effect.

Adults

15 convenient Metro locations! www.JimmysEgg.com

24

The Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy (Good Books, softcover, $20) Sound advice from a trusted source, this book offers expecting parents practical tips and more information than you may ever need to navigate pregnancy.

Esquire: Eat Like a Man

By Ryan D’Agostino (Chronicle Books, hardcover, $30) Includes over 70 recipes of food that men will want to cook and eat. Recipes and anecdotes written by chefs, great photography and tips for finding and cooking great food, plus an introduction by celebrity chef Tom Colicchio means that this is not just a book for him.

The Pocket Idiot’s Guide to Play Groups

By Marian Edelman Borden (Alpha, softcover, $9) Summer time is coming, which means that if your kids wants to see their friends, you’ll possibly be attending or hosting play groups. This pocket-size book will ensure you are fully prepared for the challenges that may accompany the children.

More Than Saying I Love You

By Andrea Goodman Weiner, Ed.D. (Franklin Green Publishing, softcover, $13) A call to action for parents on how to show your child that they are worthy and loved.

Chapters include tips and exercises to accomplish with your child.

The Fast and Furious 5 Step Organizing Solution

By Susan C. Pinsky (Fair Winds Press, softcover, $20) Conquer the clutter from your bedroom to the garage (and all points in between) using the five-step method of Plan, Sort, Remove, Name and Containerize.

Reviews by MetroFamily Magazine editor Mari Farthing.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

Want to see your business sales JUMP this year?

Then plan to attend this FREE business-building workshop...

How to use “direct response” ad strategies to grow your business 100%, 200%, 30% or more in 12 months.

You’ll learn from best-selling author & advertising expert

David Fowler

How to:

• Get your business unstuck, and start having fun • Make 30%, 50% even 100% more revenues from making more money this year... existing customers...

• Stop creating lame ads and learn the successful ad • Implement simple, yet revolutionary techniques strategies that skyrocket sales… no matter the for growing your business faster and easier than state of the economy… you are now... AND MUCH MORE!

If you’re serious about growing your business, register right now!

Choose either June 15 or 16 (9-11:15am) • Science Museum Oklahoma (Goldman Room) 2100 NE 52nd (next to OKC Zoo), OKC • FREE registration available at

www.metrofamilymagazine.com/registration (NOTE: There will be no admittance without a registration for this event.)

Back to School & Summer Camp Kits Birthday & Holiday Gift Boxes allgearedupforyou.com Check out our Great Birthday Gift Kits!

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June 24, Friday 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM June 25, Saturday 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM

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birth - 11 years limited availability register by June 17

LOCATION

Crossings Community Church Oklahoma City

Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

May 31-August 19 | OKC Fairgrounds Camp tuition is $150.

Camps run in week-long increments.

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Call or visit us online, 951-0000

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REGISTER ONLINE

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Advertisement courtesy of:

ShumardDesigns.com June 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

25

Escape The Ordinary On An

oklahoma

river cruise

Join us on the river for fun in the sun! You’ll enjoy prompt service, friendly faces and impeccable views.

All cruisers are ADA accessible and are climate controlled for your comfort.

Scheduled Public Cruise

Wednesday - Sunday with multiple departure times Regular fare. Concessions available. history Comes alive Cruise

Saturdays, May 7 - August 20 with two departure times Regular fare. Concessions available.

Shakespeare on the River

Sundays, June 12 - Sept. 4 with two departure times Regular fare. Concessions available.

For more details, departure times and locations, visit okrivercruises.com or call (405)

26

702-7755

Family Finances Summer Gift Giving

L

ooking for ways to save money on gifts but think you’re a cheapskate for bargain hunting? Well, think again. Summer gift buying can become as expensive as the holidays due to the many weddings, birthdays, housewarmings, baby showers and other special events that often take place during these months. While you may feel inundated with invitations, no one says you have to spend a lot of money to give great gifts.

Taking control of spending for gifts will allow you to reduce your costs without decreasing the sentiment. Remember that the most meaningful gifts are those that include your own thoughtful, personal touches; that means more than a hefty price tag.

Following are some ideas to help get you started.

• Children’s birthdays. Visit dollar or discount stores to purchase an assortment of low-cost items such as coloring books, story books, toys, hats, sunglasses, bubbles, craft books or other kid-friendly products.

Wrap them in tissue paper and place them in a gift bag or basket. If the recipient has a flair for drama, you may want to visit a second hand store to buy fun jewelry and shoes appropriate for “dress up.” For teens and young adults, your gift bags may include fun pencils and pens, blank CDs, coupons to download cell phone ringtones or music, a funky pair of socks to jazz up their summer shoes or fun storage boxes for all the “stuff” in their bedrooms. Other potential items include age-appropriate toiletries or personal care products.

• Weddings. Finding something for that special couple can be challenging even if they have registered at several stores. Their basket or gift bag may include inexpensive kitchen gadgets, a book of your own favorite recipes, the ingredients for your favorite dessert, an assortment of teas and coffees, or locking-lid storage jars filled with pastas. You may also want to visit with family members to collect pictures, memorabilia or favorite childhood recipes from the bride and groom and assemble them in a scrapbook.

• Baby showers. Most new moms appreciate a selection of lotions, powders, shampoo, ointments and other personal care products for their new bundles of joy. In addition, they rarely have enough bibs, washcloths or onesies—all of which fit nicely into a basket or gift bag, and can often be found on sale.

• Housewarmings. Summer months tend to increase the number of home sales as families attempt to relocate while school

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

is out. Whether you want to congratulate a friend on a new home or welcome a new neighbor to the area, gifts baskets filled with inexpensive items can be a great option to help ease the transition.

For the new homeowner who is still unpacking, you may want to include things such as batteries, light bulbs, fresh fruit, wrapped snacks, napkins, paper plates and plasticware or other practical products.

New neighbors might also appreciate a map of the city, a list of your favorite restaurants in the area, or a local phone directory with your name and number written on the front. Once people have moved and settled, you could include a framed photo of their home or a poem blessing their new home. Another great option is a living gift such as a flower bush or small tree—especially if you offer to help them plant it. Of course, homebaked goods, homemade cleaning products or other similar items are special additions to any basket or gift bag.

Assembling gift baskets or gift bags can become a family project if you involve each member of the family to select something special and put their names on their contribution to the gift. Individually choosing each item for your basket not only saves money, it also makes your gift more meaningful.

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

NOW Enrolling

Summer Camps Fall 2011 After School Program Beginning Youth & Adult Fencing

Occupational and Speech Therapy Services Available

Down Syndrome • Autism • ADD and ADHD • Sensory Processing Disorder • Cerebral Palsy • Typical children with handwriting problems and/or speech-language delays Welcoming

Amy Thomas,

CCC-SLP Speech Language Pathologist

Now Available Jeff Plunkett, MA

13905 N.May

All instructors are nationally and internationally certified.

Child and Family Counselor

405-840-1686

8107 NW Expressway, OKC

14715 Bristol Park Blvd.

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405-463-6622 Now Open!

Order online @

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(NW corner May & Memorial)

nhinja.com

Mom’s Group at Chapel Hill Chapel Hill United Methodist Church is starting a New Mom’s Group.

The group will meet weekly to discuss the joys and challenges of being a mom of young children with periodic speakers on special topics.

Our first meeting will be

June 16th 9:30-10:30am

Childcare will be provided, but feel free to bring your infant with you.

Please RSVP to StephanieA@mychapelhill.org with the number of children for childcare!

CHAPEL HILL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 2717 West Hefner Road , OKC • (405) 751-0755

LEWIS ORTHODONTICS SHANNON LEWIS, DDS, MS, PC

Plan for summer fun at Chapel Hill United Methodist Church’s Vacation Bible School!

CHAPEL HILL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 2717 West Hefner Road , OKC

(405) 751-0755

Kids explore the Bible as an exciting cookbook filled with recipes for living out God’s Word.

Children 4th and 5th Grade (completed) will be traveling off-site for local missions each day!

July 18th-21st 9:00-11:30am Ages 4 (by June 1st) thru 5th Grade (completed)

For more information or to register, call Stephanie at 751-0755 or email StephanieA@mychapelhill.org.

330.5095

2900 N. KELLY AVENUE, EDMOND OK

WWW.LEWISBRACES.COM

www.mychapelhill.org June 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

27

Special Advertising Resource Section

Name

Contact Information

Description of Services

Ages

Cost

All Geared Up

2809 S Utah Ave, OKC 405-702-4327 www.allgearedupforyou.com

Birthday gift kits include age-appropriate educational toys and gifts.

Ages 3-12

$35 & $75 gift kits

Andy Alligator’s Fun Park Arcadia Lake

3300 Market Place, Norman 405-321-7275 www.andyalligators.com

Party activities include go-kart speedway, Bayou Blaster Boats, All ages batting cages and pizza.

$99-$199

9000 E 2nd Street, Arcadia 405-216-7470 www.arcadialakeok.com

Outdoor pavilions with grills, fireplaces, & electricity. Party plans for groups of all sizes include activities such as volleyball & horseshoes, birthday T-shirt and ice. Paddle boat rentals and concession stands are available Memorial Day-Labor Day.

All ages

$50-$175

Be Wild for Art

1006 24th Ave NW, Suite 130, Norman 405-307-9971 www.bewildforart.com

Choose a party package or create your own. Includes party room, assistant, pottery for each guest, glazing and firing.

Minimum of 7 guests; $25 non-refundable deposit required.

All ages

$15-$35 each participant

Bouncin Craze

14901 Lincoln Blvd, Edmond 405-607-2020 www.bouncincraze.com

Indoor play center with inflatables and other play equipment offers private and open birthday parties. Also available for open play time. See website for details.

Up to age 13

$160 for open party; $190 & up for private party

Dawn to Dusk Inflatables

PO Box 5531, Edmond 405-630-7275 www.dawntoduskinflatables.com

Bringing the bounce to you with a variety of moonbounces, combo units, slides, water slides plus cotton candy and snow cone machines. Licensed and insured.

All ages

$110 & up

16425 NW 150th, Piedmont Dodge City 405-373-3745 Paintball & Outdoor Laser www.dodgecitypaintball.com Tag

All equipment provided (building, bathrooms, grill). Bring your charcoal & food. 4-hour paintball or 2-hour laser tag (parents required for paintball under age 10).

All ages

$16 or $20 for 4 hours of paintball; laser tag party cost based on party size.

Fancy Faces Face Painting Fine Arts Institute of Edmond Frontier City

405-816-6588 fancyfaces.shutterfly.com

Face painting for any birthday party or theme. Two painters can be hired for larger parties (2 hour minimum).

3 & up

$75/hour & up

27 E Edwards, Edmond 405-340-4481 www.edmondfinearts.com

90-minute parties include age-appropriate art projects (materials included). Paper goods and invitations provided.

Accommodates up to 15 participants.

Ages 4 & up; supervision required

$200

11501 N I-35 Service Rd, OKC 405-478-2140 www.frontiercity.com

Party packages include admission, pizza and drinks for 8 & private party room. Parties must be booked a minimum of 2 weeks in advance.

Ages 5 & up

$300/up

GattiTown

5833 NW Expressway, OKC 405-721-4227 www.gattitownokc.com

Three party packages to choose from, each featuring private room for 90 minutes, Personal Party Hero, food, games, invitations and decor. Mini Golf, Indoor Go-Karts, Mini Bowling and Bumper Cars.

Ages 12 & under

$129-$229

Gigi’s Cupcakes

14101 N May, OKC 405-286-6200 www.gigiscupcakesusa.com/oklahomacity

Boutique-style cupcakes in 33 unique flavors custom designed for your event.

All ages

$3 and up

Gymboree Play & Music

11928 N May Ave, OKC 405-755-3445 www.gymboreeclasses.com

90 minutes of private party time includes one-of-a-kind guided activities, paper goods, juice boxes and balloons for 20 children.

Ages 1-5

Starts at $195 ($50 nonrefundable deposit required)

The Hamilton Event Center

41 NW 144th Circle, Edmond 405-608-0342 www.thehamiltoneventcenter.com

Full-service venue provides facility, decorated cake, utensils and decorations. Many themes to choose from. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, laptop hookups for music and more.

All ages

$500 & up

3201 Market Place, Norman HeyDay Entertainment 405-310-3500

For any age but some attractions have age/height requirements

$125-$400

www.heydayfamilyfun.com

Birthday packages with activities like laser tag, ropes course, mini-golf. All packages include party table & server for 2 hours, paper goods, drinks, balloons and T-shirt for birthday child.

Juggle Whatever

PO Box 20086, OKC 405-464-1060 www.jugglewhatever.com

Kids learn to juggle with this family-friendly birthday concept.

Ages 7 & up Based in OKC; travels to your party venue. Provides all needed equipment.

$150-$300

Jump!Zone Party & Play Center Kiddie Park

10400 S Western, OKC 405-200-1691 www.jumpzoneparty.com

The biggest inflatable party place in Oklahoma City includes 6 massive inflatables, 5 playsets and 4 party rooms.

Ages 12 & under

$140-$250

200 N Cherokee, Bartlesville 918-336-5337 www.kiddiepark.net

Two Party Zone areas for parties. Park features 16 amusement rides (25¢ per ride) for ages 12 & under. Call ahead for reservations.

Ages 12 & under

Call for pricing information

28

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

STRIKE UP A

PARTY! Treat your child like a Kingpin with a birthday bowling bash at RedPin. Kids’ party packages, hip atmosphere, great food, & waitstaff service. Events staff to help you plan a celebration to remember. 405.702.8880

Lower Bricktown, Canal Level 200 S. Oklahoma Avenue www.bowlredpin.com

Let us help you foster a young child.

Angels Foster Family Network seeks loving, dedicated foster families interested in providing a stable foundation for young children (ages 0-3) who need their help.

We provide training and ongoing support so that you can concentrate on nurturing the young child placed in your care.

Call us today! www.angelsfosterokc.org • (405) 285-6193

June 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

29

Special Advertising Resource Section

Name

Contact Information

Description of Services

Ages

Cost

M&M Productions

8 NE 48th Street, OKC 405-528-3548 www.kidspartyusa.com

DJ services for kid and adult parties at your location. Ageappropriate music only. Party themes include Game Show Mania or Bubble Party. Contact for more details.

Ages 3+

$175-$400

Mad Science

344 S Santa Fe, Edmond 405-285-9643 www.madscience.org/okc

Science activity-themed birthday parties introduce party guests to the spectacular side of science. Each guest will concoct their own experiment to take home.

Grades Preschool-6th

$185 & up

Marc Heitz Chevy Community Complex Mobile Game Party

1221 Ed Noble Parkway (I-35 & Lindsey) Norman 405-488-7971 www.marcheitzchevy.com

Free option includes use of picnic area, play area, amphitheater and facilities. Paid package includes free options plus balloons, gift for each child, water and additional tables & chairs if needed.

All ages

$50 for paid party package (free party available)

Travels within 40 miles of Norman.

405-370-3491 www.mobilegameparty.net

32-foot temperature-controlled mobile game theater brings Ages 7 & up the party to you. Includes high-definition TVs, surround sound, vibration seating and the latest games and systems for up to 16 players, beginner to expert.

$225 & up

Mobile Laser Forces

Oklahoma City 405-259-9300 www.mobilelaserforces.com

Customizable indoor/outdoor laser tag with or without inflatable obstacles. Average package includes 10 guns for 60-90 minutes of play, wristbands for guests & dog tags for birthday child.

$150 & up

My Princess Party

Oklahoma City metro 405-488-9855 www.myprincessparty.net

Entertainer comes to your venue. Party packages include story, Ages 3-8 music, games, treasure hunt, face painting and more. For boys and girls.

$150-$180

OKC River Cruises

701 S Lincoln Blvd, OKC 405-702-7755 www.okrivercruises.com

Family-friendly birthday adventure on climate-controlled boat, available on regularly-scheduled cruises or schedule a private party for an additional fee.

$189 (for 10 guests) & up

OKC Zoo

2101 NE 50th, OKC 405-425-0218 www.okczooed.com

Six birthday party packages include party host, live animal Ages 1-13 encounter, indoor-themed room, guided tour, decorations, party favor and zoo admission. Ask for overnight sleepover ideas.

$250 & up

Oklahoma Railway Museum Orr Family Farm

3400 NE Grand Blvd, OKC 405-424-8222 www.oklahomarailwaymuseum.org

Parties held in 1921 wooden caboose or 1927 passenger car. Coloring books & paper hats provided. Packages with or without train ride.

All ages

$75-$175

14400 S Western, OKC 405-799-3276 www.orrfamilyfarm.com

Unique party venue includes activities such as train rides, animal barns, carousel and new party zipline (must be over 70lbs).

Ages 12 & under

$179 & up depending on size of party

Paint Your Art 100 N Broadway, Edmond 405-513-5333 Out

2-hour birthday parties with artist-led instruction. Each child will take home their own original masterpiece.

Ages 5-16

$200 & up for up to 10 participants

Paint ’N Station

7906 N May, OKC 405-842-7770 www.paintnstation.com

Creative birthday parties with all paints, brushes, smocks and project materials provided.

All ages

$10 & up per person

Party Galaxy

Eight metro-area locations 405-948-1234 www.partygalaxy.com

One-stop party shop for balloons, treats and decorations for parties.

All ages

All price points

Picasso To Go Quail Springs Mall, Suite 203, OKC

Pottery painting studio with a variety of items to select for painting. 10 person minimum, 2 hour party includes balloons & tablecloth.

All ages

$100 & up

Redlands Fencing Center RedPin Restaurant & Bowling Lounge Sam Noble OK Museum of Natural History

Spend your birthday party learning to fence. All equipment provided.

Ages 6 & up

$100-$300

200 S Oklahoma Ave, Suite X, OKC (lower Package includes 2 hours of bowling, meals, soft drinks and Bricktown on the canal) optional space for cake and gifts plus waitstaff. Minimum 8 405-702-8880 children for package. www.bowlredpin.com

All ages; packages for ages 4-18

$19-$32 per child

2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman 405-325-4712 www.snomnh.ou.edu

Ages 5-12

$150-$250, 10% member discount

www.paintyourartout.net

405-752-4742

30

8107 NW Expressway, OKC 405-728-3605 www.redlandsfencing.com

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

Package includes 30 minute activity with host, 30 minute tour, T-shirt for birthday child, admission for up to 12 kids & 13 adults, party space. Deluxe package includes cake, ice cream, drinks & tableware.

Ages 6 & up

All ages

Special Advertising Resource Section

Name

Contact Information

Description of Services

Ages

Cost

Sharyn’s Paint ’N Crafts Studio

16317 N Santa Fe Ave, Suite G, Edmond 405-359-1889 www.sharynspaintstudio.com

Kids parties are 2 ½-hours and include instruction and time for refreshments and gifts. A variety of projects are available.

Aprons provided but kids should dress for a mess. No limit on number of guests.

All ages

$15-$25 per party guest, depending on project selected

Shock Basketball Academy Unpluggits Playstudio

3333 W Hefner Road, OKC 405-816-4667 www.sbabasketball.net

“90 minutes of fun” party package includes coach, skills training, Ages 4-18 controlled game play, birthday gift and party room.

575 Enterprise Dr, Suite 110, Edmond 405-340-7584 www.unpluggits.com

2-hour party in your choice of rooms (Fairy or Treasure) includes admission for each child, craft for each child, paper goods, invitations and party assistant.

Recommended $225 party pack for ages 2-12; also for 15 + birthday provides adult child ($10 each parties. additional)

Velocity Dance Center

11122 N Rockwell Ave, Suite A-11, OKC 405-721-8807 www.velocitydancecenterokc.com

Dance Party, Princess, Ballerina, Pop Star and Hip Hop party themes available. All-inclusive parties include dance instruction, games, pizza, cake and goodie bags.

Ages 3-12

$125 & up

White Water Bay

3908 W Reno, OKC 405-478-2140 www.whitewaterbay.com

Party packages include admission, pizza and drinks for 8 & private party room. Parties must be booked a minimum of 2 weeks in advance.

Ages 5 & up

$300 & up

$100 & up

PARTY GIVEAWAY With the generous support of the following partners, MetroFamily brings you the opportunity to win one of these great party packages:

1 Paint Your Art Out, Private party for up to 6 people ($150 value).

Whatever, one hour juggling lesson for up to 20 participants, ages 5 and up 2 Juggle ($150 value).

3 GattiTown, Gold Party Package for up to 10 children ($159.99 value ).

4 Kiddie Park in Bartlesville, special birthday party package ($250 value).

Basketball Academy, special birthday party for 20 that includes training and 5 Shock controlled game play ($175 value).

8 Arcadia Lake, Pavilion Party Plan plus $25 birthday package ($150 value).

9 Jump!Zone, 25 Kids Weekend Classic! Party ($250 value).

Mobile Game Party, one-hour mobile video game party in the mobile video game 10 theater ($199 value).

Paint ‘N Station, a Paint ‘N Cake party for “8” ($80 value); a Party Galaxy gift card 11 ($50 value); All Geared Up, kit of birthday presents that includes 5-7 items ($75 value).

Restaurant & Bowling Lounge, birthday party package for eight kids 12 RedPin ($152).

6 Redlands Fencing, party that includes a group lesson in introductory fencing ($250 value).

Marc Heitz Community Complex, a “Heitz Movie Night” for up to 30 kids 13 Andy Alligators, Little Gator party for 8 guests (ages 6 and under; $129.95 value). ($200 value).

7

To register and find details about the contest and prizes, including more about each of these generous businesses, go to

www.metrofamilymagazine.com/birthday-giveaway Deadline is Friday, July 8, 5pm*.

Those without internet access may call our office, 405-601-2081, ext 1, to leave your name, address, phone and email (if available) to enter the contest. *All entries must be received prior to deadline to be considered. LIMIT one entry per household!

June 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

31

Your Healthy Family Healthy Party Snack Ideas

E

veryone wants birthday parties to be fun! But what to you do when your child is on a restricted diet? Or when you simply want to avoid junk food as much as possible? Do birthday parties really have to be a free-for-all of chips, soda, cake and ice cream? With the obesity epidemic on the rise, many parents are looking for ways to reduce junk food in their children’s diets, even if it means trimming back the junk at parties. That way, not only are you doing your child a favor, your birthday snack choices can benefit every guest. The coolest part is, more often than not, it can be done it without sacrificing the taste!

Parents know it’s more important than ever to teach their children healthy lifestyle habits at a young age. As of 2010, nearly one-third of all Oklahomans could be classified as obese, having a Body Mass Index of 30 or higher.

Another third are considered overweight, having a BMI greater than 25. With the rate of overweight and obese children rising sharply, instilling healthy eating habits from the beginning can save them a lifetime of health issues associated with obesity, but many parents don’t know where to begin.

And while birthday parties are meant to be a fun and relaxing departure, what do you do when they reach that point where they eat their meals at parties, sleepovers, lock-ins, or dances almost as often as they eat at home?

One solution? Set an example. More and more parents are choosing to forgo slumber party staples such as potato chips and soda in favor of more nutritious—but equally delicious—fare. Kristin Ford and Angel Peck own a party and event-planning company called Fancy Like That! (FLT!) They have a combined ten years of experience in planning events, and special dietary needs or requests are par for the course. “We’ve done several events that were 100% gluten-free, and no one else even knew. The same rule applies to food allergies and diabetes. No one wants to make someone with dietary restrictions feel different or left out,” says Ford.

Since FLT! organizes events for both children and adults, they have plenty of experience with clients looking for a healthy party menu.

“One thing we’ve found that works well for all ages is pizza. Everyone loves a pizza, and you can increase the healthy factor by going with homemade pizzas served on flatbread or sliced baguettes, giving you the option of going whole grain,” says Ford. “They can be prepared ahead with a pesto base with a touch of mozzarella and spinach, and with kids, you can even give them the option of building their own.” Indeed, according to nutritional experts, getting kids involved

32

Healthy Party Snacks: Hummus

This easy recipe for hummus can be easily modified to fit your family’s preferences.

Hummus is a healthy alternative to dips and tastes wonderful with pita bread, vegetables and even chips.

1 can garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained and rinsed 1 tablespoon Tahini (sesame paste); optional ¼ cup olive oil Juice of 1 lemon Sea salt to taste Process all ingredients in a food processor until smooth. For a creamier consistency, add more olive oil or sour cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

Add garlic, olives or roasted peppers during processing for variation.

in meal planning and preparation is a great way to teach them healthy eating habits for life. By giving them “handson” experience, they may be less likely to choose processed foods or go to the drivethrough lane when they’re older.

“Another thing we like for kids’ parties is hummus.

Kids love it, and it can be served with carrots, celery or whole grain crackers instead of chips.” While store-bought hummus can be pricey, it’s actually fairly easy and inexpensive to make, and is a great choice to keep on hand for after-school snacks. “Fresh fruits are always a healthy and popular choice, and can be served with homemade dips or spreads,” notes Ford.

When it comes to cake, “we advise skipping the store-bought cake loaded with fats.

Individual cupcakes—we at FLT! call them Bitzies—are a nice choice, and take the guesswork out of portion control. We can even do carrot or zucchini cake with cream cheese icing. Kids don’t even know we’re sneaking them vegetables!” Ford maintains that “it’s not about changing everything to fruits and veggies and taking the fun and taste out of a party. That would disappoint guests. Instead, we try to slide them in by preparing a menu that’s so yummy that

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

guests don’t even notice the potato chips are missing!”

If you are trying to trim the menu for an upcoming event, consider some of these tasty tips. Many party and event planners will work with you to create a healthy party menu, and chances are, you’ll get some great ideas you can use at home, too. I ought to know… I now prepare a two-pound batch of homemade hummus every week!

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

Feeling better,

but not where you want to be?

The Depression Outreach Study is evaluating an investigational drug that’s intended to be taken with your current antidepressant (SSRI), to see if it helps to lessen any ongoing symptoms of depression. All eligible study participants will receive investigational study drugs, coverage for their current prescription antidepressant, and study-related care at no cost. If you’re at least 18 years old, have been diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), and are taking a prescription antidepressant, you may be eligible to participate.

TO LEARN MORE, CONTACT US: IPS Research Company 405-235-8188 www.ipsresearch.com

DepressionOutreachStudy.com

25 minute ride with a full size Thomas the Tank Engine™ Meeting Sir Topham Hatt Storytelling, Live Music, Build with Mega Bloks® and Much More!

3400 NE Grand Blvd. (Exit 131 on I-35) Oklahoma City

Friday,Saturday,Sunday Sept.23,24,25,30 - Oct.1,2 www.oklahomarailwaymuseum.org

For tickets and information, visit www.ticketweb.com/dowt or call 866.468.7630

Day Out With Thomas™ Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends™. Based on The Railway Series bt the Reverend W Awdry. ©2011 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends, Thomas & Friends and Day Out With Thomas are trademarks of Gullane (Thomas) Limited.

Thomas & Friends and Design is Reg. U.S. Pat. & Tm. Off. Hit and the Hit logo are trademarks of Hit Entertainment Limited. © 2011. MEGA Brands Inc.®& TM MEGA Brands Inc.

Tickets for ages two and up are $16 if purchased online and $18 if purchased at the museum on date of ride . Advance purchase is recommended. Ticket sales are final. Events are rain or shine.

Exploring Oklahoma Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center

O

n September 15, 1893, hopeful land runner Jim Mansfield wrote a letter to his wife about his attempt to obtain a certificate to stake a homestead claim in the largest land run in American history: Dear Hade, We reached Arkansas City Sunday evening and I stayed all night… And this morning at three o’clock, we was up and started at half past four to the Booths and stood in line all day… I did not get a certificate today… There is over fifty thousand home seekers on the Kansas Line but I am going to stay and fight for a claim. It is pretty hard to [stay] all day in line when the dust is so thick you can’t see your hand three feet from you. I have to pay 5 cents for a drink of water on the line. It is very dry here but a nice country. So write me soon.

Your husband, Jim Mansfield On the next morning, September 16, 1893, Mansfield was one of over 100,000 land seekers who gathered on the borders of the Cherokee Outlet, a long thin strip of six million acres running across the northern border with Kansas, to race for their dream of land ownership.

Sitting on part of the historic Chisholm Trail, Enid’s newly renovated, 24,000-squarefoot Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center is making sure that stories like the Mansfield’s are kept alive. The 28 interactive exhibits support the center’s mission “to tell the extraordinary stories of settling the Cherokee Strip and share the inspiring lessons of leadership with future generations.”

“Part of our mission,” says Andi Holland, the Center’s director, “is to inspire future generations.” This mission is evident in how the Center is laid out and highlights the region’s community leaders, past and present, whose perseverance helped them settle untamed land and establish thriving areas of commerce.

The Outlet gallery, a visual and written history of the Cherokee Strip, greets visitors.

A small theater projects a 13-minute film documenting one settler family’s experience.

In The Land and the People Gallery, visitors can literally listen to settlers’ oral stories from interviews taken years ago and preserved on tape.

One of the state’s most comprehensive natural resource galleries is featured in the Dave Donaldson Oil and Gas gallery. The oil and gas businesses established by early settlers are impressive and their stories are highlighted.

The Allen Enid gallery teaches the history of northwest Oklahoma towns. Many are no longer in existence. However, Enid survived and thrived. “Roads and railroads were centered in Enid,” Holland explains, giving Enid an “advantage and opportunity to become a major center of commerce.”

Those who attended Phillips University, the first private university in the state, will appreciate the Thelma Gungoll Phillips University gallery. Artifacts from the school’s heyday are on display, depicting the university’s role in shaping the area’s culture.

Other features of the new Center are worth a visit in and of themselves: • The Research Center is an asset to the center’s visitors and surrounding communities. “We are trying to develop resources [to support] the smaller, outlying communities,” Holland explains. “A lot of little towns don’t have ways to preserve their materials.” The Research Center provides a resource for these towns to preserve their history. Aaron Preston, the research center’s archivist, is instrumental in documenting the items and aiding visitors with research. Collection, preservation and education are the center’s goals, according to Preston. The basementlevel research area and vault is designed to keep the historic materials from being destroyed in the event of disaster.

Reference books, access to ancestry.com, microfilm, and cassette interviews are available to visitors.

• The Humphrey Heritage Village is a quaint and authentic grouping of preserved, early buildings located on the center’s grounds that include an old school house, church, home, and the only surviving U.S. Land Office from 1893.

• The Plaza, an outdoor patio overlooking the beautiful Government Springs Park, can be rented for events. The park’s pond was an original watering hole for cattle driven on the Chisholm Trail.

• The Gift Shop is a must for purchasing an area souvenir.

Only an hour and a half drive from the northern Oklahoma City metro limits, the Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center is an educational, hands-on historical destination, perfect for families or school field trips. Hours are Tuesday-Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm and Sunday 1:00-5:00pm.

For more information call 580-237-1907 or visit www.csrhc.org.

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.

A lot is going on in Enid. Staff of the newly-formed Enid Convention and Visitors Bureau would love to help you plan your visit. For more information on Enid, call them at 580-233-3643 or visit the bureau's website at www.visitenid.org. A few events this month: Enid Farmers Market, an open-air market offering Oklahoma-grown produce, foods and crafts. Corner of Owen K Garriott and Grand. Saturdays, May-October, 8-11am. 580-977-4420.

Historic Downtown Walking Tours. The colorful and sometimes controversial history of downtown Enid comes alive at 10am on the third Saturday of every month (April-October). Reservations required; 580-2422233. $6 adults, $3 children. Presented by the Chisholm Trail Coalition.

Chautauqua in the Park held June 14-18 features free entertainment and performances, 6-9pm. Held at the Humphrey Heritage Village and the Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center.

34

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

ADMISSION FEES Members Free • $12.50 Adults $9.75 Seniors (age 62+) $9.75 Student (with current ID) $5.75 Children (age 4-12) Children 3 & Under Free Call for Group Pricing

Open Daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

at the CIVIC CENTER 6/21/11-6/25/11

at the CIVIC CENTER 7/19/11-7/23/11

at the CIVIC CENTER 7/5/11-7/9/11

at the CIVIC CENTER 8/2/11-8/6/11

405.524.9312 LyricTheatreOKC.com

Experience the Bible in an entirely new way at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art. The Passages exhibit commemorates the 400th anniversary of the King James Bible with an exhibit of “biblical” proportions. Explore 2,000 years of Judeo-Christian history through over 300 rare artifacts, including a Dead Sea Scroll text and historic first editions.

Even the youngest visitor will be engaged by the animatronic guides, historical re-enactors and hands-on activities that help illuminate the early printing processes. An iPod touch tour is available free of charge to visitors.

On display through October 16, the Passages exhibit tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors, $15 children ages 6-18 and $10 for military. Purchasing tickets in advance is strongly recommended to guarantee entry into the exhibit. Visit the Passages home page (www.explorepassages.com) or the Museum of Art’s home page (www.okcmoa.com) to learn more.

Weekly Events FREE Admission at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art on Tuesdays. 10am-5pm. Activities include Art Adventures for children ages 3-5 with adult (10:30am) & Tuesday Noon Concerts 30-minute musical performances by the OU School of Music students & faculty.

Toddler Time at the Mustang Recreation Center at Town Center (1501 N Mustang Rd) provides fun for toddlers & young children with parent. FREE with community center membership, or $2 per child.

Tuesday & Thursday, 9am-noon. 376-3411, www.cityofmustang.org.

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

Water Polo at Pelican Bay (1034 S Bryant, Edmond) features inner tube water polo & competitive style games for families, kids & teens. Preregister. $15 per player. Wednesdays, 8-10pm, though 8/10. 216-7647, www.edmondok.com/parks/pelicanbay.

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

FREE Concerts in the Park at Hafer Park in Edmond.

Live music each Thursday, June-August. 7:15pm.

359-4630, www.edmondok.com/parks/rec.

Wild Tuesday Story Time Safari at the OKC Zoo invites children 11 & under to enjoy stories, a meet-andgreet with a Zoo keeper or naturalist & a craft activity.

Tuesdays, 9:30 am & 10:30am, through July.

FREE Green Earth Gang for ages 9-13 works on conservation projects in Martin Park during the summer months. Fridays, 9:30am-12:30pm. 755-0676, www.okc. gov/parks/martin_park.

Family Fun Night at JumpZone (SW 104th & Western) includes 2 adults, 2 children, large pizza, 2 liter pop for $25. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4:30-8pm. 200-1691, www.jumpzoneparty.com.

Fun Friday Preschool Activities at Mustang’s Town Center (1201 N Mustang Rd) includes activities, crafts, games & snack each week for children ages 6 & under with parent. $3 per child. 10:30am. 376-3411, www. cityofmustang.org.

Toddler Time at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History Discovery Room includes fun & educational activities for ages 18 months-3 years.FREE with paid museum admission. Tuesdays, 4-4:30pm; Saturdays, 10:30-11am.

FREE Tuesdays at Town Center (1201 N Mustang, Mustang) feature live music, entertainment & more.

Tuesdays, 7pm, through 8/9. 376-3411

Dive-In Movies at White Water Bay begin at dusk.

FREE with paid admission. Fridays 6/24-7/29.

943-9687, www.whitewaterbay.com.

Oklahoma River Cruises Classic Cartoon Cruises & History Comes Alive Cruises held each Saturday, departing from Regatta Park or the Exchange Landing on the Oklahoma River. Departure times vary. $6 adults,

$3 seniors & ages 6-12, under age 6 FREE. 702-7755, www.okrivercruises.com.

Discovery Days at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History in the Discovery Room includes interactive, hands-on activities with stories, crafts & touchable specimens. FREE with paid museum admission. Saturdays, 2pm; Sundays, 2:30pm.

Train Rides at the Oklahoma Railway Museum leave the Oakwood Depot at 10am, 11am, noon, 1:30pm & 2:30pm on the first & third Saturday of the month. $10 age 15 & up, $5 ages 3-14, FREE under 3. 424-8222, www.oklahomarailwaymuseum.org.

FREE Build & Grow Kid’s Clinics at Lowe’s stores offers kids an opportunity to complete a wooden project.

Each participant also receives an apron, goggles, a project-themed patch, & certificate. Saturdays, 10am. www.lowesbuildandgrow.com.

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

FREE 1-2-3 Play With Me at the Warr Acres Library for children ages 4 & younger with caregivers. Saturdays, 10:30am.

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, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

June 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

37

Quick Reference American Banjo Museum 9 E Sheridan Ave, OKC 604-2793, www.banjomuseum.org City Arts Center Fair Park, 3000 Pershing Blvd, OKC 951-0000, www.cityartscenter.org Fine Arts Institute of Edmond 27 E Edwards, Edmond 340-4481, www.edmondfinearts.com Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art 555 Elm Ave, Norman 325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum 13th & Shartel, OKC 235-4458, www.oklahomaheritage.com

Drop in Art at the OKC Museum of Art. Create art inspired by the Museum’s collection, exhibitions, & special occasions. FREE with paid admission.

Saturdays, 1-4pm.

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

Ongoing Events Jun 16-Jul 9 The Merry Wives of Windsor presented by Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park at the Myriad Gardens Water Stage. $15. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm. 235-3700, www. oklahomashakespeare.com.

Through June 18

Myriad Botanical Gardens Closed for renovations; opening in 2011.

297-3995, www.myriadgardens.com

Living Legacy at the Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum features wood & bronze sculpture by the father/son duo, Willard & Jason Stone.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org

Jun 23-Oct 1

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

Send an email to Calendar@MetroFamilyMagazine.com

38

Pure Color at the Gaylord Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum features an exhibit by the Oklahoma Society of Impressionists. Opening reception 6/23, 5-7pm.

Jun 25-Jul 4 Liberty Fest in Edmond is a week long celebration featuring family-oriented events, including a concert, road rally, kite fest, rodeo, car show, food fest, pageant, parade & fireworks. 340-2527, www.libertyfest.org.

Through June 26 Rembrandt Etchings: States, Fakes & Restrikes at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art explores Rembrandt’s etchings & the history of restrikes & forgeries. 878-5300, www.mgmoa.org.

Jun 30-Jul 3 OKC Summer Classic Dog Show at the Cox Convention Center. www.okcsummerclassic.com.

Through June FREE Sooner Mall Safety Town educates children ages 5-6 about bicycle, street & personal safety.

Week-long sessions consist of 50 minute daily classes.

Preregister. 360-0341, www.soonermall.com/programs.

Silver Anniversary Red Earth Master Artist Show at the Red Earth Museum in OKC features award winning artists from the past 25 years of the Red Earth Festival Competition. 427-5228, www.redearth.org.

FREE Jacobson House Powwow Singing Sessions at the Jacobson House Native Art Center (609 Chautauqua, Norman) feature Kiowa singer

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

John Hamilton & revered Ponca elder John Kemble alternating as lead singer. Wednesday evenings, 7-9pm. 366-1667, www.jacobsonhouse.com.

Through July 1 FREE Summer Nights Concert Series at Moore’s Buck Thomas Park (12th St between Eastern & Bryant) features family-friendly bands. Concessions available.

7-10pm. www.cityofmoore.com for performance schedule.

Through July 10 Amy Blakemore: Photographs 1988-2008 at the OKC Museum of Art includes photographs by Houstonbased artist Amy Blakemore.

Through August 5 Summer Movie Fun at Harkins Bricktown Cinemas 16 (150 E Reno) features 10 family friendly movies for kids throughout the summer. $5 provides admission to one movie per week for 10 weeks. Monday-Friday, 9:45am.

231-4747, www.harkinstheatres.com/smf.

Through August 21 1934: A New Deal for Artists at the OKC Museum of Art celebrates the 75th anniversary of the Public Works of Art Project by drawing on the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s collection of vibrant paintings created for the program.

Through August 27 FREE Tessa Traeger: Voices of the Vivarais at City Arts Center features large scale photographic prints celebrating the lifestyle & food of the Ardeche region of Southern France.

FREE Jen Stark: Tunnel Vision at the City Arts Center features hand-cut paper sculpture and video animations.

Through August FREE Sunday Twilight Concert Series at the Myriad Botanical Gardens showcases Oklahoma bands performing a variety of musical styles. Sundays, 7-8:30pm. 270-4848, www.artscouncilokc.com.

Through September 5 Art and the Animal at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History features more than 100 works of art.

Through October 16 Passages at the OKC Museum of Art presents the world-premier of an interactive, non-sectarian traveling exhibition that tells the dramatic story of the capturing, preservation, translation & new discoveries of the Bible.

JUNE S M T W T F S

Through November 13 The Art of the Tool Exhibit at Science Museum Oklahoma combines form with function by examining the tools that creative professionals use. FREE with paid museum admission.

Through November 20 The Bowie Knife: Icon of American Character at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum looks at the history, art & legacy of the Bowie Knife.

Through 2011 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 & editorial cartoons.

FREE Oklahoma City! Sooner or Later on the second floor of City Hall (200 N Walker) presents the history of city government from 1889 to the present.

Monday-Friday 8am-5pm. 297-2391.

Oklahoma Driven: Car Collectors & the Birth of the Oklahoma Highway Commission at the Oklahoma History Center spotlights the cars & roads that accelerated the shaping of our state.

June 2011 1 • Wednesady FREE Teens Summer Cook-Out Kick-Off at the McCloud Public Library celebrates the beginning of the Teen Summer Reading Program for grades 7-12.

Preregister.

OKC Redhawks vs. Round Rock Express baseball at the AT&T Bricktown Ballpark. 7:05pm. $5 & up. 2181000, www.okcredhawks.com. Other home games next month: 6/2-7, 13-20.

3-4 Oklahoma Storytelling Festival in Seminole features prairie stories, American Indian stories, story swaps, concerts & ghost tales from nationally known, regional & local tellers. 366-8915, www.territorytellers.org.

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

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

Relay For Life benefitting the American Cancer Society at Central Jr. High School in Moore. 7pm-7am. www.relayforlife.org/mooreok.

3-5 25th Annual Red Earth Native American Cultural

Festival at the Cox Convention Center represents over 100 tribes from across North America in a dance competition, art market & parade. Dance competitions Friday & Saturday, noon & 7pm; Sunday, noon.

427-5228, www.redearth.org.

FREE A Small Town Weekend in El Reno includes car shows, grascar races, drag races, children’s activities, festival food, vendors, live entertainment & more. Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 9am-10pm; Sunday, 8am3pm. 350-3048, www.ercruisers.com.

4 • Saturday

29 5 12 19 26 3

30 6 13 20 27 4

31 1 2 3 4 7 8 9 10 11 14 15 16 17 18 21 22 23 24 25 28 29 30 1 2 5 6 7 8 9

Metropolitan Library System metrolibrary.org

FREE Arcadia Lake’s All American Kids Fishing Derby at Spring Creek Park for kids ages 5-15.

Registration 7:30am-Noon. Concessions & worms available for sale. 216-7471.

Gospel Concert at Inspiration Hill (880669 S 3330, Wellston) are held May-October on the first Saturday of the month. 356-4051.

2nd Annual Scleroderma Foundation Fun Walk at Little River Park in Moore includes walk & silent auction benefitting Scleroderma in Oklahoma's research for a cure. $20, includes Tshirt. Registration 7:30am, walk 8am. 213-9230, www.firstgiving.com/ scl-ok.

FREE Hooked on Fishing Clinic sponsored by the OKC Parks & Recreation Department at Edwards Park Lake (1515 NW Bryant) invites anglers ages 5-15 to learn casting, knot-tying, fish identification, angler etiquette & more. Equipment provided. Preregister.

8-10am. 297-2211, www.okc.gov/parks. Also held: 6/11 at Metro Tech Springlake & 6/18 at Dolese Youth Park Pond.

FREE Summer Reading Challenge Kick-Off at Borders (300 Norman Center, Norman) for kids 8-12 celebrates the opening of Judy Moody & the Not Bummer Summer in theatres & the joy of summer reading. 2pm. 573-4907, www.borders.com.

FREE Lecture & Dance Presentation: Reinstallation Opening Reception at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art features a lecture, dance performance and opening reception in celebration of the reinstallation of the museum's permanent collection of modern & contemporary art. Lecture 5pm, reception 6-8pm.

Belle Isle.................5501 N Villa...........843-9601 Bethany................3510 N Mueller.........789-8363 Capitol Hill............ 334 SW 26th...........634-6308 Choctaw.................2525 Muzzy...........390-8418 Del City..................4509 SE 15th...........672-1377 Downtown.............300 Park Ave.......... 231-8650 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 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

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

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June 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

39

Happy children.

Successful students.

Stronger families.

Customized nanny services and one-on-one tutoring and college test prep It’s your family. You know what you need. Tell us.

We’ll help you find the right fit.

Edmond Learning & Placement Center 405-513-6060 collegenannies.com/edmondok • collegetutors.com/edmondok

Karen’s Kids Studio of Dance

FREE TRIAL CLASS

Tap ✦ Jazz ✦ Ballet ✦ Modern HipHop ✦ Lyrical ✦ Pom Tec Class

Classes for all ages.

Fall registration July 28th & 29th

Summer Dance!

Dance Camp

June 21-22 • 7 - 18 years

Enrolling Now!

Kids Dance Kamp

July 11 - 15 • 3½ - 6 years

Dance Intensive

July 18 - 22 • 7 - 18 years Please call for more information.

karenskidsrock@sbcglobal.net www.karenskidsstudioofdance.com

732-7722

Introducing the NEW Coliseum Sports Academy "All it takes is all you've got"

Volleyball

skills training for ages 7-18 Private, small group lessons and clinics Special programs for homeschoolers

www.coliseumsportsacademy.com coliseumsportsacademy@gmail.com Strength • Precision Quality • Respect

40

Downtown Dash is a 5K & 10K beginning & ending at St. Anthony Hospital to support the revitalization & beautification of downtown OKC. Includes health expo. $30. Activities & registration, 6pm; race, 8pm.

235-4789, www.downtownokc.com.

4-5 Route 66 Triathlon at Lake El Reno includes sprint distance & international distance triathlons & an aqua bike. Discounts for early registration. 640-5304, www. triokc.org.

Chisholm Trail Crawfish Festival at Kirkpatrick Family Farm in Yukon features Kid’s Kreative Korral, living history reenactments, chicken & crawfish races, live Cajun band, pony rides, gunfights & more. Saturday, 10am-6pm; Sunday, 10am-3pm. 350-8937, www. cityofyukonok.gov.

Fort Reno Reunion at Fort Reno is a reunion for anyone who has lived or worked or had relatives who lived or worked at Fort Reno in the past. 262-3987, www.fortreno.org The Central Oklahoma Cactus & Succulent Society annual exhibition & sale is held at the Will Rogers Exhibition Hall (3400 NW 36th). Friday, 9am-5pm; Saturday 9am-4pm.

5 • Sunday FREE Summer Breeze Concert Series at Lions Park in Norman features the music of Shane Henry & Maggie McClure. 7:30-9:30pm. 307-9320, www.thepas. org.

Mall’s Lego Store. Build a new model every month.

Held the first Tuesday of the month. Quantities are limited. For ages 6-14. 5pm. 840-9993, www.stores. lego.com.

FREE Tuesday Night at Town Center: Edgar Cruz at the Mustang Town Center Gazebo (1201 N Mustang) includes crafts, games & concert. 6pm. 376-3411.

7-12 9 to 5: The Musical presented by Celebrity Attractions at the Civic Center Music Hall is based on the hit movie & features Dolly Parton’s original hit title song.

Recommended for ages 12 & up. Tuesday-Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm & 8pm; Sunday, 2pm &7pm. 297-2264, www.celebrityattractions.com.

8 • Wednesday World Oceans Day Celebration at the Oklahoma Aquarium features “fishy” arts & crafts & scavenger hunts while raising awareness to protect our critically important oceans & their inhabitants. FREE with paid admission.

8-12 11th Annual deadCenter Film Festival showcases over 100 films from all across the country with panels, workshops & parties planned over 5 days in downtown OKC. 246-9233, www.deadcenterfilm.org.

9-10

Grown-Up & Me Ceramic Workshop at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise, Edmond). Capture those wiggly handprints & footprints with fun seasonal themes. $17 with paint 'n' play admission, $15 without. 4:30-6pm.

340-7584, www.unpluggits.com.

Children’s Safety Challenge hosted by the Edmond Fire Department at the Fire Administration Building (5300 E Covell) for ages 4-7 years old & provides safety education through classroom discussion & hands-on experience. Preregister. $20. 8:30-11:30am & 1:304:30pm. 216-7303. Also held 6/20-21.

6 • Monday

10 • Friday

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

FREE Take a Trip Around the World with Arabesque at the Norman Public Library features the acoustic duo playing music inspired by Celtic, Arabian, JudeoSpanish, Turkish & other world folk traditions as part of the library’s Summer Reading Program. FREE tickets are required & are available at the library Children’s Desk. 2-3pm & 7-8pm. Also held 6/7 at the Moore Public Library; 6/16 at Earlywine Park YMCA (11801 S May).

7 • Tuesday

Senior Adult Conference 2011 at Southern Nazarene University at Bethany First Church (6789 NW 39th) features speakers, workshops, vendors, exhibits, seminars & silent auction targeted at improving quality of life for senior adults. $20. 8am-3pm. 491-6311, www. snu.edu/senior-adult-conference-2011.

FREE Muggle Fest includes a day of activities and events based on the Harry Potter book series for all ages. 1-7:30pm. Norman Public Library.

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

FREE Quail Springs Mall Family Night includes free entertainment, prizes, crafts and more. 5:30-7:30pm.

755-6530, www.quailspringsmall.com.

10-11

FREE Monthly Mini Model Build at Penn Square

Edmond Jr. Rodeo at the Edmond Round Up Club

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

(300 N Kelly) features contestant from ages 4-18 competing in events including mutton bustin’, barrel racing, pole bending, goat tying, calf riding, ribbon roping, steer riding & junior bulls. Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 6pm. 264-3685, www.edmondroundupclub.com. Also held: 6/17 & 18.

10-12 The Endeavor Games at the University of Central Oklahoma is the nation’s largest multi-sport event for disabled athletes. www.ucoendeavorgames.com. See page 8 for more information.

Ozarka OKC Nationals at the Oklahoma River Boathouse District features one of the largest drag boat races in the nation. 630-7668, www.okcmotorsports. com.

Prix de West Invitational Art Exhibition, Sale & Seminars at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum includes art seminars & demonstrations, receptions & awards banquet. Reservations required for opening activities. Exhibition & sale continue through 8/7.

11 • Saturday FREE Coupon Classes held at the Edmond WalMart (Santa Fe & Danforth) helps people save money through the wise and honest use of coupons. No young children. Preregister. Suggested donation is one can of food for the OK Food Bank. 10am-noon. www. consumerqueen.com/coupon-classes.

Family Art Studio at Gymboree Play & Music (11928 N May) includes a unique Father’s Day craft, snack, storytime, & constructive play for ages 18 months-5 years. $10 per child. 10-11:30am. 755-3445, www. gymboreeclasses.com.

FREE Festival in the Park presented by the OKC Council of Garden Club in celebration of Garden Week at Will Rogers Park (3400 NW 36) features gardening seminars, floral design exhibitions, fun activities & more. 10am-4pm. 297-2211, www.okc.gov/parks.

FREE Sugar Free All Stars concert at Uptown Kids (5840 N Classen). 10:45am. 418-8881, www. uptownkidsstyle.com.

12 • Sunday FREE Prix de West Perk at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum invites guests for a Sunday morning stroll through the galleries to view the Prix de West art still available for purchase after the opening night sale. FREE coffee & admission until 10:30am.

9-10:30am.

FREE PianOrchestra at the Downtown Library features a unique ensemble of keyboards playing as an orchestra. 2pm.

Jazz Concert at the Performing Arts Studio (200 S Jones, Norman) features Mark Giammario. 7:30pm.

307-9320, www.pasnorman.org.

13 • Monday

for girls 2 ½ - 10

Enroll online or in person

Summer 2011 Camps: • • • •

Mini Princess Camp Princess Camp Pop Star Camp My American Girl and Me Camp

Enroll for Summer Today!

Velocity Dance Center

721-8807 • velocitydancecenterokc.com

FREE Amazing Journey of Dr. Seuss at the Norman Public Library features actor Tim Woods sharing his portrayal of Dr. Seuss characters and telling stories.

FREE tickets required, available two weeks prior at the Children’s Desk. 2-2:45pm & 7-7:45pm. Also held 6/14 at the Moore Public Library.

Alloy Orchestra-Fritz Lang’s Metropolis, presented

by OK Mozart at Rose State College Performing Arts Theatre, features a three-man musical ensemble. $20.

8pm. 297-2264, www.okmozart.com.

14 • Tuesday

11122 N Rockwell Ave, Suite A-11 • OKC

When travlin’ down the road, be sure and stop in and pay the Kiddie Park in Bartlesville a visit and have some good family fun.

Storytime Science at Science Museum Oklahoma invites guests to join the museum’s performerpuppeteer extraordinaire for storytelling at its finest.

FREE with paid admission. 10:30am & 2:30pm.

Create an Art/Craft for Father’s Day at Bouncin Craze (14901 N Lincoln). $7.50/child. 4-8pm. 607-2020, www.bouncincraze.com.

FREE Tuesday Night at Town Center: Celebrate America at Mustang Town Center Gazebo (1201 N Mustang) features a flag ceremony, National Anthem, memory wall honoring military members, concessions & an appearance by Benjamin Franklin. 6pm. 376-3411.

st Train Ride Is The La FRE e r e Wh Bartlesville, Oklahoma E! For more information, see

www.kiddiepark.net

15-19

Greater Oklahoma Bluegrass Music Society Concert/Jam at the Oklahoma Country-Western Museum & Hall of Fame (3925 SE 29, Del City) features three professional bluegrass bands on stage. $6, $5 members, FREE 12 & under. 6:30pm. 677-7515, www.gobms.org.

The Little Mermaid presented by the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre on the campus of OCU in the Berg Theatre follows the story of an adventurous mermaid. $9 adults, $6 children. Wednesday & Friday, 10am11am & noon-1pm; Saturday-Sunday, 2-3pm. 951-0011, www.oklahomachildrenstheatre.org.

11-12

June 16-19

Oklahoma Senior Follies at OCU Kirkpatrick Auditorium (2501 N Blackwelder) benefits Mobile Meals of Oklahoma County with a star-studded evening of costumes, singing & dancing inspired by the Ziegfeld Follies of the early 20th century. $25. Saturday, 7pm; Sunday, 3pm. 208-5227, www.okseniorfollies.com. See page 10 for details.

Summer Camps

101 Dalmations presented by the Poteet Theatre (222 NW 15th, OKC) features a classic story performed by the students of the Theatre's Summer Program. $10.

Thursday-Saturday, 6:30pm & 8:15pm; Sunday, 2pm & 4pm. 609-1022, www.poteettheatre.com.

Summer Art Classes Enroll and Camps NOW! • All Ages & All Stages • Professional Faculty • Friendly Atmosphere

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

June 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

41

Dr. Seuss-a-palooza

June 6-10, 2011 / Rising Pre-K - 2nd Grades

On Broadway: the Musical Revue

June 13-17, 2011 / Rising 3rd - 7th Grades June 20-24, 2011 / Rising 8th - 12th Grades

All camps are from 9:00am - 1:00pm Early bird discounts available! Call to reserve your spot!

Cost : $140.00 (this includes a Camp T-shirt)

16 • Thursday FREE 3rd Thursday: The End of the Line Chilocco Indian School 1969-1980 at the Oklahoma History Center examines the events that occurred at the school including faculty dismissals, lawsuits & student protests culminating in the schools closing in 1980. 7pm.

17 • Friday

844 W Danforth Rd, Edmond (405) 285-5803 • upstagetheatreok.com

Enroll Now!

Classes emphasize Art, Music, Drama, Puppets, Manners and much more.

• Ages 2½ - 5 • Morning – Afternoon - All Day • Tuesday thru Friday • Owner Retired Teacher

Our Children are Special

10455 N. May • OKC, OK 73120

405-751-1002

Bright Night of Sports at Science Museum Oklahoma includes an overnight stay in the museum, admission to exhibits, Science Live production, Dome Theater Movie, Planetarium Show, hands-on activities, concessions open for late-night snacks & breakfast. One adult is required for every six children. Preregister. $45 child/ adult participant, $20 adult non-participant. 6pm8:30am.

Rendezvous for Red 2011 at the Skirvin Hilton Hotel (1 Park Ave) benefits the American Red Cross of Central Oklahoma with the presentation of the Red Cross Ruby Award for Humanitarian Service, live & silent auctions & more. 6:30pm. 228-9500, www. rendezvousforred.org.

Daddy-Daughter Dance at the Moore Community Center (301 S Howard) for dads with daughters ages 4-14. Tickets must be purchased by 6/15 at the Moore Community Center. $10 per couple, $5 each additional daughter. 6:30-8pm. 793-5090, www.cityofmoore.com.

Zoobilation 2011 sponsored by the Oklahoma Zoological Society at the OKC Zoo features wild fun & good food for a great cause. Must be 21 & older. $75 per adult. 7-11pm.

17-26 Seussical at UCO Mitchell Hall Theater (100 N University, Edmond) is based on the books of Dr. Seuss & centers on the power of imagination & belief in oneself. $15 adults, $10 children, $10/$8 matinee.

Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm & 8pm; Sunday, 2pm.

249-7477, www.summerstockok.com.

18 • Satuday Cultural Day at the Oklahoma History Center invites families to explore Oklahoma’s unique heritage through crafts & activities. 10am-2pm.

LAYAWAY PLANS

Summer Season Celebration at the OKC Zoo is a family-friendly event focusing on summer safety. FREE with paid admission. 10am-2pm.

$99 Delivery & Installation exp. 6/30/11

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

Fabulous Father’s Day at the Orr Family Farm includes FREE admission for dads. Take a ride on the new zip line, ride the train, pet the animals & mine for gemstones. $10.50. 10am-6pm. 799-3276, www. orrfamilyfarm.com.

FREE Cars 2 Movie Event at Borders (300 Norman Center, Norman) celebrates the new movie with games, stories & more. 2pm. 573-4907, www.borders.com.

www.okcplaysets.com 200-1691

42

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

Green Bambino Diaper Bazaar at Green Bambino (5113 N Shartel, OKC) Buy, sell & trade used cloth diapers & diapering accessories. If you plan to sell diapers, please email info@green-bambino.com.

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

18-19 Oklahoma Celtic Music & Heritage Festival at the Payne County Expo Center in Stillwater. Saturday, 9am-8:30pm; Sunday, 9am-5pm. 547-5070, www. okcelticfest.com.

FREE Thriving Marriages Retreat for Foster Couples at Geno’s Chophouse (113 W Harrison, Guthrie). All expenses paid for registered couples.

Funds available for childcare. Preregister. 877-4358033, www.yourthrivingmarriage.com.

FREE Father’s Day Weekend at the Museum of Osteology (10301 S Sunnylane) offers FREE admission for dads all weekend. Saturday, 11am-5pm; Sunday, 1-5pm. 814-0006, www.museumofosteology. com.

19 • Sunday Happy Father's Day to our special dad readers!

Find a complete list of Father's Day events and activities at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/fathersday-events. Included is a list of museums offering FREE admission for dads!

Joshua Bell with Amici New York Orchestra presented by OK Mozart at Rose State College Performing Arts Theatre features the Grammy Award winning violinist. $70-$90 adults, $60-$80 students.

2pm. 297-2264, www.okmozart.com.

20 • Monday.

FREE Al Bostick’s Ancient Stories & Modern Truths at the Norman Public Library features storyteller Al Bostick as he looks at African & African-American traditions. FREE with ticket available two weeks before the program at the Children’s Desk. 2-3pm & 7-8pm.

Also held 6/21 at the Moore Public Library.

21 • Tuesday FREE Tuesday Night at Town Center: First Day of Summer at the Mustang Town Center Gazebo (1201 N Mustang) features a “Push, Pull or Pedal Children’s Parade”, movie trivia, FREE snow cones, concessions & a movie. 6pm, movie at dusk. 376-3411.

21-25 Oliver! presented by the Lyric Theatre at the Civic Center Music Hall reveals the honest emotions of Charles Dickens’ novel, Oliver Twist, starring the young performers of Lyric’s Thelma Gaylord Academy.

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

Find our listing of Independence Day Celebrations around the state at

Dance Classes and Camps for All Ages

www.metrofamilymagazine.com/independence-day-fun.

Listing will be available after June 15th.

23 • Thursday Mother Son Pirate Party at Mustang Town Center & Aquatic Center (1201 N Mustang) begins with games & activities followed by swimming at 7:30pm. Purchase tickets by 6/18. $5. 6:30-9pm. 376-3411.

FREE The Three Little Pigs presented by the Cimarron Circuit Opera Company Presents at the Belle Isle Library is the story of two little pigs & their studious sister who explains why reading books at the library is a smart thing to do. 7-7:45pm.

23-25 FREE 27th Annual Jazz in June in Norman at Brookhaven Village & Andrews Park features three days of contemporary, swing, blues, salsa, improv, straightahead & smooth jazz. Thursday-Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 6pm. 325-3388, www.jazzinjune.org.

23-26 BARNUM 200 presented by Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey at the Cox Center features 130 performers from six continents, almost 100,000 pounds of performing pachyderms, cowboys, pirates & mermaids. FREE All-Access Pre-Show with purchased ticket. 745-3000, www.ringling.com.

Disney’s Camp Rock at the Sooner Theatre features a musical production performed by the 8-13 year-old SummerStage campers. $10 adults, $5 kids 12 & under.

Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday-Saturday, 2pm & 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm. 321-9600, www.soonertheatre.org.

24 • Friday Night at the Museum: Under the Sea at the Edmond Historical Society & Museum features pizza, games, scavenger hunt & music for ages 6-12. Preregister. $25.

6-10pm. 340-0078, www.edmondhistory.org.

Movie Night at the Museum at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History screens Howl’s Moving Castle in the museum’s Great Hall. $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 ages 6-17, children 5 & under FREE, $1 discount per ticket for members. Galleries open, 8pm; movie, 7pm.

24-25 A Celebration of Quilts 2011 at State Fair Park includes a showing of quilts & raffle. Friday, 9am-8pm; Saturday, 9am-5pm. www.centralokquilters.org.

2011 Survive ‘N’ Thrive Statewide Single Mothers’ Conference at Crossings Community Church (14600 N Portland) features keynote speaker, materials & lunch.

Childcare for ages birth-11 years is FREE, but limited.

Preregister. $25. Friday, 6:30-9pm; Saturday, 9am3:30pm. 812-5137, www.ariseministries.net.

25 • Saturday The Great American Backyard Campout presented by the National Wildlife Federation raises awareness & funds for NWF’s programs that connect kids & families with the benefits of nature. Register online. www. backyardcampout.org.

FREE Library Day at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History provides FREE admission when you show your library card. Storytimes & activities throughout the day. 10am-5pm.

Open House and Enrollment Friday, June 3rd & 17th • 5:30 - 7:30pm Why Choose Velocity:

• Hassle-Free Recitals • Professional Floating Dance Floors • Easy online enrollment • Small Class Sizes • University Trained Instructors • Ages 2½ and Up

Enroll for Summer and Fall Today!

Velocity Dance Center

721-8807 • velocitydancecenterokc.com

11122 N Rockwell Ave, Suite A-11 • OKC

FREE StoryTime with a Princess at Uptown Kids (5840 N Classen) features stories & a mini-makeover.

10:30am. 418-8881, www.uptownkidsstyle.com.

26 • Sunday FREE Summer Breeze Concert Series at Lions Park in Norman features the music of The Damn Quails.

7:30-9:30pm. 307-9320, www.thepas.org. bewildforart.com

27-30 FREE Groovin’ Around the Globe at the Metropolitan Library System Libraries features the Sugar Free All Stars. Check website for performance schedule.

28 • Tuesday

FREE One World’s Weird Weather Stories at the Moore Public Library will have Oklahoma Mesonet meteorologists sharing the classic children’s story Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, weather instruments for children to explore, and weather safety tips. 2-3pm & 7-8pm.

29 • Wednesday FREE Musician Brendan Parker at the Village Library will feature songs from his children’s album titled Spaghetti Eddie! And Other Children’s Songs. 1pm.

30 • Thursday FREE Japanese Cuisine with Go Go Sushi at the Moore Public Library demonstrates how to make Japanese cuisine & shares information about Japanese culture for children 7-12 years old. 10:30-11:30am.

Dive-in Movie Night at Pelican Bay (1034 S Bryant, Edmond) features swimming and a movie. Concessions available. $5. 8pm. 216-7647, www.edmondok.com/ parks/pelicanbay.

Kid-Friendly Atmosphere Mommy and Me • Summer Camps Parties Tuesday - Saturday 11am - 6pm Friday until 9pm 1006 24th Ave. NW, Suite 130, Norman, OK

(405) 307-9971

Se eking A GRE AT Babysitter?

Serving All of Oklahoma County

Easy, Safe Babysitting Solutions

www.SeekingSitters.com Alicia Champion, Local Owner

On demand childcare options for your home!

Oklahoma County/Edmond Metro

405.416.3588

June 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

43

Come see why we’re the global leader in classes for kids.

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• Birthday Parties • Church Groups • Youth Events • I teach them all!

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44

405-373-3745

www.DodgeCityPaintball.com

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

PICASSO TO GO Create memories that last a life time!

Birthday Parties • Church & Girl Scouts Groups • Special Team Building Projects • Open For All Ages Children To Adult

10AM-9PM Mon-Sat 12PM-6PM Sun

2501 W Memorial Rd (Quail Springs Mall)

752-4742

Mobile laser Forces.coM awesoMe laser Tag! anywhere anyTiMe we coMe To you • Birthday Parties, • Sports Teams • Church Groups, • Any and all events • Indoors or Outdoors • Ages 6 to 80 • Very affordable

Mobile laser Forces.coM 405-259-9300

Children’s parties for any occasion ages 5-16

100 N Broadway, Ste 160 • Edmond

405.513.5333

www.PaintYourArtOut.net

We Can Make Your Next • Punky Pottery • Bridal Parties • Teen Parties • Walk-in Anytime • Birthday Parties

A Blast!

Daycare Programs Birthday Parties School Programs

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

Tons of Affordable FUN! www.madscience.org/okc 405-285-9643 June 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

45

Happy Father’s Day! In celebration of dads in the metro, we asked our readers to submit their favorite photo of fathers with their children. We were in awe of the photos that we received and are happy to showcase these dads doing what they do best—spending quality time with their kids.

Find all the submitted images at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/may-2011-photos.

hter Lexy, age 14, Xavier N. with daug so, Texas.

Pa El in of Norman

For our July issue, we’d love to see your birthday party photos. Send us your favorite photo showing your child celebrating their special day and we’ll feature them all online and select a few to print in our July issue. Deadline for photo submissions is Monday, June 20. Photo submission guidelines and a form to submit your photos can be found at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/mfm-photo-galleries.

Kaier H. with daughters Daussin, age 13, and Sadie, age 5, of Choctaw at the Magic Kingdom, Disney World.

Scott K. with sons Zachary, age 8, and Ty, age 6 at Tinker Air Force Base.

46

Camr yn, age 6, of Brad S. with daugher Guthrie. wn Edmond in do town

Dan J. and daughter Ad di, age 4 , of Oklahom a City enjoying Festival of the Child in Yukon.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | June 2011

Lance S. with daughte

r Bella of Norman, OK

Dad Kamanu returning from deployment is greeted by son Tyler, 7 months old and mom Chrichelle of Edmond.

Chris A. and daughter Hadley, age 7, of Oklahoma City on a hunting trip.

.

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