Family Focus 2016

2016 FAMILY FOCUS A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO THE APRIL 9, 2016 MORRIS SUN TRIBUNE AND THE APRIL 14, 2016 HANCOCK RECORD AND CHOKIO REVIEW

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FAMILY FOCUS - MORRIS SUN TRIBUNE, HANCOCK RECORD, CHOKIO REVIEW

APRIL 9 AND APRIL 14, 2016

Mentoring means making time for our youth About once a month, seven-year-old Keara Blasing gets picked up at school by her mentor, Vicky Dosdall, for an evening where Keara gets to be the center of attention.

With four siblings at home, one-onone time is something Keara’s mom, Dani Laine-Patton, felt was important for her daughter.

“I think it’s important to have special times with kids,” agreed Dosdall.

“I think everybody’s lives are so busy – including mine – that we don’t take enough time for our youth. It’s all hurry up, hurry up, get to this event.”

Their time together as mentor and mentee is filled with baking cookies and brownies, playing games, and keepKim Ukura/Sun Tribune ing scrapbooks to help remember the Keara Blasing and her mentor Vicky Dosdall work on a batch of oatmeal chocolate chip activities they’ve done together. When cookies during a visit on Wednesday, March 23. Keara and Vicky were matched up as part of the weather improves this spring, Vicky the RUSC Kinship mentoring program in Stevens County. and Keara both said they’re excited to get out into the garden to explore last August and has helped make seven Finally, potential mentors complete Dosdall’s yard. a group training with participants to matches in the community.

“I love to go to Vicky’s because she’s learn about their role as a mentor, possiBecoming a mentor fun,” Keara said. “I like that we do Mentors are asked to go through ble scenarios they might encounter, and scrapbooking, we cook … my family a multi-step application process to how to set expectations and boundaries loved the brownies, they just gobbled ensure that kids participating in the with their mentee. them up.”

“There’s a lot of time and thought program are safe and that parents feel “She loves Vicky – they bake togeth- comfortable leaving their child with that goes into matching good mentors,” er and play games together – she gets a mentor, explained RUSC Executive Dosdall recalled. “I think it makes you really excited when she finds out it’s Director Andrea Bobrick. stop and think as to what your role is as going to be a ‘Vicky and her’ day,” said Potential mentors are asked to fill a mentor – I think it’s just being there Laine-Patton. out a written application that includes for someone.”

Keara and Vicky were the first questions about personal interests, pair matched up by RUSC Kinship work and educational history, volunJoining the program Mentoring, a mentoring organization teer experience, health and transporThe application process for young formed last year in Stevens County. tation needs, and personal references. people, anyone between the ages of 5 RUSC – Raising Up Stevens County After the applications are reviewed and 17, to join the program is simpler.

– is an affiliate of the national mentor- by the RUSC Board of Directors and The youth enrollment form asks some ing organization Kinship, a network of background checks are completed, basic questions about the mentee’s 36 organizations located in the upper mentors complete a personal interview family, their interests, and any issues Midwest. The local group was found- in the mentor’s home to get to know mentors may need to know. ed by Stevens County Commissioner them better.

“From that we schedule a time to Jeanne Ennen, who was awarded “(The interview) is mostly for us to meet with the mentee and their family, an $80,000 grant through the Bush get an idea of some things that mentors then we can match them,” said Bobrick.

Foundation to help develop a nonprofit enjoy doing, their experiences… during “It’s real easy to get a few kids who are program that will connect individu- that time, it’s important for us to take waiting, but we’d prefer to get them als and mentors throughout Stevens the time to get to know the mentor so matched as soon as we can.”

County.

Dani Laine-Patton, Keara’s mom, we can intentionally match them with The organization began accepting a young person,” said Bobrick. said she heard about the program applications for mentors and mentees through a flyer that came home with Keara from Morris Area Elementary School.

“Keara’s one of those little girls that loves one-on-one time,” said LainePatton, but that time can be hard to find while also caring for Keara’s four siblings, one who has some special needs.

“I was hoping that she’d find somebody that she’d enjoy having time with and could spend a little more one-onone and give her the attention she likes.”

Matching mentors and young people is a process that takes into account preferences and interests expressed by mentors, families and young people.

Generally, girls will be matched with female mentors, while boys will have male mentors, but Bobrick said there can be exceptions to that rule. RUSC Kinship also matches young people with families, so matches always take some flexibility.

For example, one single dad wanted his son paired with a family so he could see another family structure and make friends with the children in his mentoring family, Bobrick said.

Mentors, families and young people usually meet for the first time at the RUSC Kinship office to do ice breakers, games, and work out logistics of activities and transportation for everyone involved.

Benefitting all young people Since December, RUSC Kinship has made seven mentoring matches in the community, but there are still a few mentors and mentees looking for matches.

“It’s typical for mentoring organizations to have a waiting list – we’ve done really well because we’ve been able to match our kids right away,” said Bobrick.

One of the challenges for the program is to get beyond a perception that mentoring is only for “troubled” kids or “at risk youth,” which is not the goal of the program, said Bobrick.

“We want to be really inclusive because we really do believe that every kid can benefit from having more caring adults, caring relationships in their life,” said Bobrick. “We’re trying to get past that idea that just because kids aren’t in trouble, they can’t benefit from a mentor.”

Community members interested in volunteering as a mentor or enrolling a child in RUSC Kinship Mentoring can pick up an application at the RUSC Kinship office (215 Atlantic Avenue), download an application online at www.rusckinship.org, or email Bobrick RUSCKinship@gmail.com to request an application.

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Kim Ukura Sun Tribune

APRIL 9 AND APRIL 14, 2016

FAMILY FOCUS - MORRIS SUN TRIBUNE, HANCOCK RECORD, CHOKIO REVIEW

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Child and teen checkups change with your child Marcia Schroeder Horizon Public Health At every age infants, children, adolescents and young adults all experience challenges and meet important milestones.

Between birth and 21, they grow, change and develop physically and mentally, most of the time faster than we want them to. As your children grow and change, Child and Teen Checkups change to meet their growing needs.

Child and Teen Checkups are health and development screenings specific to the age of the child being screened. At four months of age the

Horizon Public Health (serving Douglas, Grant, Pope, Stevens and Traverse Counties) offers home visits to all families at no cost.

These home visits are appropriate for pregnant women and their partners, parents with newborns, and families with small children. The visits are conducted by experienced registered nurses who provide support and education on family

planning, breastfeeding, home safety/injury prevention, healthy lifestyle, community resources, parenting, nutrition and immunizations.

Horizon Public Health also offers Growing Great Kids. GGK is a home visiting program focused on prenatal and postpartum health, infant and child development and attachment and life skills to build a strong family and support system. This program is free and designed for women who are pregnant and/

or families with infants through three year olds with activities and materials to make parenting fun and meaningful.

For more information about our home visiting programs or to arrange a home visit call Horizon Public Health at 1-800450-4177.

On April 19 at 6:30 p.m. the Morris Public library will be hosting author and illustrator Derek Anderson for a one-of-a kind show.

Derek will talk about how he has “The Greatest Job in the World,� read his book Ten Pigs: An Epic Bath Adventure, gets everyone dancing to original music by Tom Lieberman and laughing with goofy props, and conclude with a group drawing activity.

Suitable for families and groups with children ages 0 to 6, the show lasts approximately 45 minutes.

During the month of April children can come to the library to enjoy some pig crafts and to sign up to win copies of the Ten Pigs: An Epic Bath Adventure book donated by the Stevens County Pork Producers.

The Traveling Trunk show is part of the Once Upon a Reader, a statewide early literacy ini-

tiative that launched in 2014. This event is sponsored by the Morris Public Library, Viking Library Systems, and the Council of Regional Public Library System Administrators (CRPLSA) and is funded in part or in whole with money from the Minnesota’s Art and Cultural Heritage fund.

For more information contact the Morris Public Library at 320 589-1634 or visit www.morris.lib. mn.us.

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Marcia Schroeder Horizon Public Health

tal well-being and give them a head to toe physical exam. Every child should also be connected with a dentist and be getting regular dental visits.

Help your child meet the challenges and milestones they face as they grow into adulthood.

Maximize the opportunity to keep your child on track by making appointments for regular and periodic Child and Teen Checkups.

Call Horizon Public Health at 800-450-4177 to learn more about Child and Teen Checkups and help with finding a provider or call your clinic directly.

Ten Pigs Traveling Trunk Show at the Morris Public Library

The Stevens County Early Childhood Initiative sponsored a family movie night on Thursday, March 10, 2016.

Horizon Public Health offers home visiting options for families

provider is looking for appropriate growth and developmental skills, such as turning the head towards a sound and following a bright color.

At four years of age the provider is screening the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s speech and gross motor skills. At 14 years a conversation between the child and provider may turn to relationships with peers as well as checking hearing and body mass index.

Child and Teen Checkups change with your growing child.

At every age it is important to review the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health history, immunization status, height and weight, men-

FAMILY FOCUS - MORRIS SUN TRIBUNE, HANCOCK RECORD, CHOKIO REVIEW

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APRIL 9 AND APRIL 14, 2016

Youth mentoring enhances lives Morris Area ECFE brings and improves communities together kids and families Andrea Bobrick RUSC Kinship Mentoring

A group of concerned community members who have founded the non-profit organization Raising Up Stevens County Kinship Mentoring agreed with County Commissioner Jeanne Ennen that Stevens County, particularly the young people in our community, could benefit from having more caring adults in their lives.

Youth mentoring programs similar to Kinship, like the Big Brother Big Sister program are common in bigger cities where crime rates are much higher and the need for mentoring is more visible. For this reason, youth mentoring tends to be associated with “troubled” or “at-risk” youth. However, we believe mentoring is intended to help all youth feel more supported and more connected to their community.

To those of us at Raising Up Stevens County Kinship (RUSC Kinship Mentoring) it just makes sense that the more caring people and positive relationships a person has in their life, the more likely they are to be successful, no matter their age or experiences.

To some, a need for youth mentoring might not seem as prevalent in our community, but there is a need present, especially when you take a closer look at our spending on social services. In 2015, Stevens County Human Services saw a significant increase in child protection assessments, adult protection assessments, and out-of-home placements.

Mentoring is a powerful tool that has the potential to enhance the lives of young people, but also to improve our communities by reducing the cost burden associated with risky youth activity that can impact their lives as adults. Youth mentoring is linked to improved academic, social, and economic opportunities for young people which ultimately strengthens our communities. Research shows that when matched through a quality mentoring program, mentors can play a powerful role in providing young people with the tools and support to make responsible decisions, stay focused and engaged in school, and reduce or avoid risky behavior like skipping school, drug use, and other negative activities.

The primary role of RUSC Kinship Mentoring is to recruit, screen, train and support adult volunteers who commit to mentoring a young person in

a one-on-one relationship. We are currently accepting youth enrollments and actively seeking volunteer mentors.

We have been combating the stigma attached to youth mentoring programs to help our community understand the value of positive relationships in every young person’s life. RUSC Kinship Mentoring is a program intended to provide opportunities for young people from all socioeconomic backgrounds to become more connected to their community and to feel more supported.

Through our program, volunteers are strategically matched with young people based on common interests, experience and preferences, and are expected to spend at least four hours a month with their mentee for at least one year doing everyday activities that they both enjoy and agree upon.

Mentors provide a very special opportunity for a young person to connect with additional, non-related adults in their community which is a key indicator in a young person’s ability to overcome hardship and achieve greater aspirations. Mentors also create opportunities for young people to learn about cultural diversity, career paths, educational opportunities, and family structures which can supplement their foundation created at home and school.

RUSC Kinship Mentoring creates a safe environment for youth to build their network, expand their opportunities, and create new friendships by extensively screening every volunteer mentor, and providing the infrastructure and resources to support them.

RUSC Kinship Mentoring provides a unique opportunity for adults to invest in the future of our community and the well-being of our youth. Mentors can volunteer to be matched with a young person as an individual, couple, or a family by completing a “Volunteer Application” found at www.rusckinship.org.

Concerned adults can also invest in RUSCKinshipMentoringby“Sponsoring a Child” by donating $500 a year, or by “Sponsoring a Match” by donating $1,000 a year. All donations are used to continue to provide opportunities for youth in Stevens County and can be mailed to RUSC Kinship Mentoring at 215 Atlantic Ave Morris, MN 56267.

Parents can enroll youth by contacting RUSC Kinship Mentoring office at 320-585-RUSC or visiting www.rusckinship.org.

Diane Strobel Morris Area ECFE Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) is a program offered through the Minnesota Public Schools for all Minnesota parents with young children from birth to kindergarten entrance. ECFE began as a pilot program in 1974 and now has grown to involve more young children and their families than any other publicly sponsored early childhood program in the state.

The goals of ECFE are to: • Support a child’s optimal physical, intellectual, social, and emotional development during the important first 5 years of life •To promote informed, realistic attitudes and expectations about raising children • To offer child development information and a variety of parenting techniques • To support parents in their efforts in raising children • To create effective communication in families • To provide information on resources available in the community These goals are accomplished through parent/ child classes and special

family events. A typical ECFE class offers a time for parents and children to interact with each other. This is an opportunity for your child and you to explore the activities, toys, and projects in the early childhood room. The valuable one on one time with a child is often appreciated by busy parents.

Parent/Child time is followed by a circle time of singing, fingerplays and movement. After the children are settled in and eating a snack, the parents meet in the parent discussion room for some conversation, education and discussion on a variety of issues related to parenting and family life.

This is a great time to meet new people with children the same age as your children, to explore child development, and to get tips on ways to handle different parenting situations. ECFE also offers classes where the parents and chil-

dren remain together.

Planned activities help parents gage their child’s abilities and parents can discuss issues informally with other parents and the ECFE staff.

At no other time in your child’s life is your role as a parent as crucial.

Your child’s development occurs so rapidly during these first years of life.

The interactions and support provided in these early years are important for optimal growth in all developmental domains.

These are the years that lay the foundations for being able to cope, problem solve, and learn.

Fortunately what children need to reach this potential is love, support, and a safe base from which to explore their world. Although this sounds easy, parenting is often extremely demanding and difficult work.

ECFE provides a stimulating environment for your child and a place to talk about concerns of raising children. Join us for some fun times with your child plus the added component of spending time with other adults who are experiencing many of the same struggles and joys while raising their children. For more information, call Diane Strobel at 585-2237 or e-mail dstrobel@morris. k12.mn.us.

Preschool Learning in a Christian Environment ter For The Call 585-5067 To Regis Or Set Up 2016-2017 School Year A Time To Visit.

Zion Lutheran Church 315 South Columbia Ave. Morris, MN 320-585-5067 001406046r1

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Pregnancy Test - Parenting Classes - Car Seats Pack and Plays - Cribs, Diapers & Baby Supplies Our Earn While You Learn Program is an educational program presented in a one-on-one setting by a trained volunteer. As you complete lessons you will earn points that may be used in our “Baby Boutique” where you can “purchase” items you will need to care for your baby.

712 Atlantic Ave. Suite 5 • 320-589-0300

APRIL 9 AND APRIL 14, 2016

FAMILY FOCUS - MORRIS SUN TRIBUNE, HANCOCK RECORD, CHOKIO REVIEW

Head Start offers comprehensive services to kids Head Start is a state and federally funded program for young children. Morris Head Start offers comprehensive services to children who are between three and four upon enrollment.

These services are delivered in a learning environment that is individualized to support children's growth in the five domains of the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework: Language and Literacy, Cognition and General Knowledge, Approaches to Learning, Physical Development and Health, and Social and Emotional Development.

Head Start comprehensive services include early learning; screenings and follow-up for health, development, and behavior; health and safety; social and emotional development; nutrition; family goal-setting; social services; transition services; and services for children with disabilities.

Head Start services are designed to be responsive to each child and family's ethnic, cultural, and linguistic heritage.

We believe that healthy kids build healthy communities because healthy children are ready for school.

At Head Start, families are engaged in their children's learning and development and are poised to support the lifelong success of their child. Head Start recognizes that parents are their children's primary teachers and advocates.

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Stevens County ECI works to help children thrive

Diane Strobel Stevens County ECI Coordinator

For the past twelve years, the Stevens County Early Childhood Initiative has been busy working to assure that all young children thrive in Stevens County. We were chosen as an Early Childhood Initiative site in January 2004 and are building on our strengths to further enhance education and support for families. We want all children to have a life of learning, achieving, and success, which begins in early childhood.

Here are the highlights of what the ECI has accomplished over the past 12 year period: • Kiwanis/ECI Read to Lead Project • “Look What I Can Do” Birth to Three Year Screenings • Dental Outreach Clinics • Child Care Provider/Child classes and in- home Child Care Visits • Ages and Stages Follow Along Program • Family Fun Fair • Family Fun Nights – Halloween Party, Family Dance Movie Nights, Gym Nights, Concerts, etc.

• Early Childhood Professional’s Conference and other Training Opportunities • Toddler Area and Library Story Time •RFC Pre-Kindergarten Riding and Large Muscle Toys • radKIDS classes • ECFE Positive Parenting Classes

For more information, contact our Head Start Staff (Deb Dogotch and Melissa Whittemore) at 320-589-7949. We are located at 1001 ½ Scotts Ave. Stop by and see our Children’s Book Week center and what we have will be celebrated at the to offer. We welcome Morris Public Library visitors anytime.

May 2 to 8. This year the library will be celebrating Anna Dewdney’s Llama Llama character and books.

Families are invited to a pajama party on Wednesday, May 4 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. There will be a continuous story time in the meeting room, pictures with Llama, crafts, games, face painting, and milk and cookies for a bedtime snack. There will also be a drawing for a Llama Llama Red Pajama book to be given away that evening.

• Labor, Delivery, and Beyond Classes in collaboration with Stevens Community Medical Center, Stevens County Ambulance, and Morris Area ECFE • Kindergarten Transition and Pre-K – Third Grade Alignment • Early Childhood Screening Packet Supplies Many of these projects and ideas originated with collaborative dollars and planning; but, have been maintained by the host agency because of the important benefits they have provide to the families in Stevens County.

Our local coalition is part of a statewide network of coalitions aimed at protecting, supporting, and advocating for our youngest children. All individuals are welcome to become involved by volunteering to help at an event, join a planning committee, or attend the monthly ECI coalition meeting as we make policy and funding decisions about our youngest children. The possibilities are endless, if you have an idea of ways we can achieve our goals, please let us know.

To quote the Panel for the Promotion of Child Health, “Children are one third of our population and all of our future.” The Early Childhood Initiative is helping make wise investments for the children in Stevens County and in turn for the future of this region.

For more information or to become involved, contact Stevens County ECI Coordinator Diane Strobel at 320-585-2237.

Morris Public Library celebrates “Children’s Book Week”

Child Care is Our Business!

The following day Llama will join readers for storytime at 10:30 a.m. Children are invited to wear their pajamas to both events if they would like.

There is no cost to attend any of these events which are sponsored by the library, Morris Friends of the Public Library, Stevens County American Dairy Association, Stevens County Child Care Association and the Morris Women of Today.

Established in 1919, Children’s Book Week is the longest-running literacy initiative in the country. It is the national

celebration of books for young people and the joy of reading. In conjunction with the week, the Children’s and Teen Choice Book Awards are presented. This is the only national book awards program where the winning titles are selected by children and teens. Last year, over 1,000,000 votes were cast by young readers.

Visit www.reading.org/ choices for book lists from the past several years.

For more information contact the Morris Public Library at 320-589-1634 or visit www.morris.lib. mn.us.

HEAD START: “Where we believe a Parent is a Child’s Most Important Teacher”

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This ad brought to you by these Stevens County Licensed Day Care Providers.

Head Start is a comprehensive program that provides children ages 3-5 with educational activities to prepare them for Kindergarten, as well as helping them grow socially, emotionally and physically. Head Start also provides services to families through connections to appropriate community agencies.

A West Central MN Communities Action Program Serving: Douglas, Grant, Pope, Stevens, Traverse, Otter Tail, and Wadena Counties.

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Love, Care & Attention is what we provide!

PAGE 6

FAMILY FOCUS - MORRIS SUN TRIBUNE, HANCOCK RECORD, CHOKIO REVIEW

APRIL 9 AND APRIL 14, 2016

Country Day Cooperative Preschool celebrates Development begins 50 years educating the community at birth at Morris Area Country D a y to 12 p.m on Tuesday of Directors, or contrib- at countrydaycp@gmail.

Child Care Center Cooperative Preschool and Thursday (geared ute their talents anyway com to schedule an altertoward 2 years, 9 months to 4 years old, but older children are welcome); and “Fun With Learning” from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday (open to all ages).

Country Day’s classes are offered 8 a.m. through 3 p.m. during the months of September through May. We are open every day that Morris Area Schools are open, only closing for major holidays. We do not observe non-weather related late starts or early outs, proving important consistency for your child and the convenience of a simplified schedule. The additional school days and student contact hours allow Country Day to offer a per-hour cost that is low comparative to other preschools.

Country Day provides opportunities for children to grow socially, emotionally, cognitively, and physically. Our classes have no more than ten students, allowing for individualized attention and the flexibility to offer monthly fieldtrips and other enrichment activities. Our children learn through play. A typical day includes sharing, music, letter concepts and phonics, crafts, fine and gross motor skills, outside play, cooperation skills, and just plain fun.

At Country Day parents are an important part of their children’s education. Parents are welcome to volunteer in the classroom and accompany their children on monthly field trips, serve on the Board

they wish.

Country Day Cooperative Preschool will host a Family Fun Night on April 14 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Families can visit our large classroom space, meet the teacher, and secure their space for the 2016-2017 school year. If you are unable to attend the Family Fun Night please contact us at 320-589-3493 or email us

native time to visit, ask questions or sign up for next year. We are now enrolling for next fall, with spaces in each class filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.

We hope you will join us. Country Day has been the start of great beginnings for children for 50 years and look forward to your child being a part of our future.

MORRIS TRANSIT

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Mon.-Fri. 6 a.m.-10 p.m. • Saturday Noon-4 p.m. • Sunday 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

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is celebrating 50 years of serving the Morris community. Continuing the legacy of community leaders who envisioned a high-quality, fun, and flexible preschool that involves families in important ways, Country Day is proud of our history and excited for the future.

Country Day offers small class sizes and play-based learning for children ranging from 2 years, 9 months up to the start of kindergarten.

Our teacher, Meredith Lhotka, has worked in childhood education and in-home child care for 16 years, providing nurturing experiences that will benefit children throughout their lives.

“Miss Meredith” offers a warm, creative, and fun environment that leads to a love of learning and success in kindergarten and beyond. She also provides excellent communication so you can be a partner in your child’s growth.

As a cooperative preschool, run by parents, our educational offerings are flexible, depending on the needs of the children and their families.

Parents can choose from a set class schedule, pair our various offerings, or set your own schedule as space allows.

Country Day offers three traditional classes: “Pre-Kindergarten” from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday (geared toward ages 4 to 5, but younger children are welcome); “Little Learners” from 8 a.m.

The Morris Area Child Care Center exists to enhance the emotional, social, physical, intellectual, and language development of children to help them gain confidence and self-esteem while learning to function in a group setting.

We believe children learn through a structured environment as well as through play. We use three rooms to care for a wide range of children. We also offer a separate summer program for school-age children and limited before/after school care during the school year.

The foundation for a child’s development starts at birth. We create an environment which stimulates growth through a balance of self-directed and guided activities. Using Creative Curriculum framework, each child has the opportunity for individual development and exploration offered in a variety of environments that stimulate creativity and problem solving.

Children receive quality preschool services as well as nurturing and loving care all in one setting.

The daily program is designed to make each child successful at their age level and prepare them to enter school to be successful. The staff is always observing the children to better meet the needs of each individual in the childcare program.

The program includes: • Individualized program plan for your child’s age group and needs: physical development (large and small motor), creative developments (art and crafts), music, literacy (lots of reading and language development), and cognitive develop-

ment (age appropriate math and science skills • Intergenerational activities with our friends at West Wind Village.

• The staff is always observing the children to better meet the needs of the individual in the childcare program to see each child succeed • Parent Teachers Conference: twice a year to review your child’s formal assessment through Teaching Strategies GOLD which is in collaboration with Creative Curriculum which starts at birth through kindergarten.

• Focused at developing skills while they are young so they are fully prepared for kindergarten when they leave Morris Area Child Care Center.

• Through collaboration with University of Minnesota Morris Community Engagement Office we have a college student that is specially trained to do a storytime and activity with the Toddler and Preschool rooms.

• Daily outdoor activities on our age appropriate playground, weather permitting, and age appropriate rest time.

• Special Activities: we like to celebrate with the kids and enjoy special days with them when possible.

All of the items are designed to contribute to the success of our students in addition to having a loving environment that can care for your child in our extended hours but also prepare them to be a success beyond our doors. We are available to be a “one-stop-shop” for daycare and preschool services in a loving-nurturing environment.

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Outdoor classroom coming to Morris Area Community Ed Tony Reimers Morris Area Community Education

Pioneer Public TV sponsored a visit with Clifford the Big Red Dog at the Morris Public Library in June.

Read for the Win at the Morris Public Library this summer The Morris Public Library urges families to get ready, get set, go to the library and sign up for Read for the Win! The summer reading program begins on June 6. During the next two months, the library will host a number of free activities for youth to encourage and support a love of reading. Participants can win prizes for reaching their reading goals.

The library will kick off the summer program with Professor Marvel’s Magic of the Olympics, a fun filled magic show with Robert and Lynn Halbrook on June 8 at 10:30 a.m.

Join us on July 7 at 6:30 p.m. as we learn about animals from Quistorff’s Little Bita Everything Ranch.

We wrap up our special entertainers with a performance by George of the Juggle featuring

comedy, magic and juggling on July 28 at 4 p.m.

Be watching for more information on these and other fun activities that are being planned for youth and families to enjoy at the library this summer.

There’s also a serious side to summer reading.

Research has shown that reading over the summer prevents summer reading loss. Studies also indicate students who read recreationally outperformed those who don’t. Students read more when they can choose materials based on their own interests.

The Morris Public Library is committed to supporting lifelong learning and educational enrichment for all families.

For more information contact the Morris Public Library at 320 589-1634 or visit www.morris.lib. mn.us.

We are number one! A study from the Children’s Defense Fund looked at child well-being across all 50 states. In July 2015, their report gave Minnesota the number one ranking.

The Children’s Defense Fund has been conducting this study for many years. Back in 2007, Minnesota was also number one. When looking at the specifics of the study, we find that Minnesota is second in the nation in health care for children and fourth in family and community well-being.

This is fantastic news for young learners and all of Stevens County.

In Stevens County, we are taking time in April to celebrate the family.

Our theme once again is Healthy Kids Build Healthy Communities. At Morris Area Community Education we believe healthy kids need to have opportunities to learn and grow physically, mentally, and spiritually.

It is with that belief that we offer all day classes, half day classes, recreation classes, bilingual classes, and encourage child driven curriculum throughout our programing.

Recently, Morris Area Community Education has taken steps towards creating an Outdoor Learning Environment.

We are excited about the possibility of an outdoor classroom and its potential impact on physical, mental, and spiritual growth. At the Dimensions Research site in Forest Lake, Minnesota, parents described the many benefits of regular time in nature. They described improved sleep habits in their children, cardiovascular health, increased physical strength, a greater sense of calm and focus, and improved mood.

At Morris Area Community Education, we believe high quality early childhood education can enhance both the individual’s quality of life and the entire community’s quality of life. As a member of the West Central Initiative (WCI) group that meets monthly, I know we are not the only program in Stevens County that is driven by this belief and passion. In Stevens County, we are fortunate to have enormous support for early childhood education. Thank you for your support and desire to make this a healthy community, one child at a time.

“Look What I Can Do!” screening event May 9 A “Look What I Can Do!” (LWICD) early screening event will be held on Monday, May 9 from 3:30 to 7 p.m. at the Morris Area Child Care Center. This event is open to all families with children ages birth to 2 years and 11 months who reside in Stevens County.

There is no charge to families and is sponsored by the Stevens County Early Childhood Initiative with funds from West Central Initiative.

“Look What I Can Do!” offers parents a chance to

see what their child is able to do in a variety of developmental areas. It is an event where a child and their parents move from station to station meeting with an early childhood professional to do a simple age appropriate screening. The screening includes personal and social skills, selfhelp skills, large/small muscle skills, speech/ language skills, vision and hearing, immunization, vision, hearing and dental assessment. This screening helps parents

see if there are any delays affecting their child’s growth and development.

The screening staff is knowledgeable about early childhood development and available to answer parents questions and concerns about their child’s overall growth.

This screening will be the third “Look What I Can Do” event held in Stevens County. There are only a limited number slot available: 10 children

will be screened during the evening.

If you are interested in having your child screened on May 9, please contact Kate Jirsa, Morris Area Child Care Center coordinator, at 320-589-7948 to set up an appointment.

This collaborative event is conducted by staff from Horizon Public Health, Morris Area ECFE, Morris Head Start, and Morris Area Child Care Center.

DISORDERS M U R T C E P S L O FETAL ALCOH FASD: The Facts FASD is caused by alcohol use during pregnancy.

In Minnesota, 7,061 babies are born every year with brain damage caused by prenatal alcohol exposure.

There is no safe amount, no safe time, and no safe kind of alcohol use during pregnancy.

FASD causes permanent brain damage.

FASD Impacts Us All FASD is common.

•About 1 in 10 pregnant women reports alcohol use.

Nationally, FASD affects 2-4% of all babies.

FASD is costly.

•It is estimated to cost Minnesotans more than $131 million annually for FASD.

FASD is 100% preventable.

Sponsored by Stevens County Child Protection Team.

For more info call 585-2237.

A MOFAS event “Building Health Bodies for the Future” will take place on Tuesday, April 19th from 4:00 to 6:00 in Oyate Hall during “Love Your Body” week at UMM. The focus will be to inform young adults on reproductive health choices to promote healthy families.

A presentation will be given beginning at 4:30 in addition to appetizers, samples of non-alcoholic alternative punches, free handouts, goody bags, and door prizes.

For more information call 320-585-2237.

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•There is no cure, but it is 100% preventable if women do not drink alcohol during pregnancy.

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APRIL 9 AND APRIL 14, 2016

Morris Area Pre-K classes help grow healthy children and healthy communities Kristin Grove and Ashley Bennett Morris Area Pre-Kindergarten Social-emotional skills are necessary to live a healthy life. They help us to build relationships, solve everyday problems, think creatively, and promote emotional well-being. At Morris Area Pre-K, we strive to help children learn these skills so they will grow to build a healthy community around them.

Healthy relationships are encouraged by instilling trust, respect, appreciation, and caring for one another.

From the first day children come to our program, they are exposed to these relationship qualities. These qualities

are learned through play and modeling by adults, teachers, and peers.

Children are natural problem solvers and thinkers. Being able to think creatively is very important to solving problems. Children in Pre-K classes are given the opportunity to develop their thinking skills through building, creating, playing with blocks and manipulatives, reading books, dramatic and outdoor play, and creative arts.

As relationships grow and they make friends, children are able to understand different perspectives and cooperate to solve problems.

Children have many highs and lows throughout their school day. While students interact with teachers and classmates, they experience many emotions which can affect the outcome of their play. Part of emotional well-being

is being able to understand one’s own feelings and those of other individuals.

In order to build healthy relationships and be successful, children learn through these daily experiences how to react to feelings in everyday life.

Our philosophy is that social-emotional skills are built through children’s play, books, art, and conversations.

We provide limitless opportunities for these experiences to happen in order to promote a healthy, successful life for the children in our program and the communities in which they live.

The Morris Area ECFE/School Readiness is a Four Star Parent Aware rated program, making it eligible to provide and accept Pathway I and Pathway II scholarship opportunities for children.

Through Pathway II dollars we have hired a Spanish Language and Cultural specialist. Part of this job is to provide a Spanish language element and outreach in all our classes.

Pre-Kindergarten classes are offered through Morris Community Education for children three to five years of age.

There are several options to choose from including three and four year old classes, four and five year old classes, and bilingual class choices for children three to five year olds.

Registration for fall classes will begin at the end of April when the Morris Community Education Tiger Tracks arrives. For more information contact Diane Strobel, Morris Area ECFE/ School Readiness Coordinator at 320585-2237.

Teaching kids about healthy relationships and healthy sexuality Lisa Thom Someplace Safe When I learned the theme of this year’s family focus – Healthy Kids Build Healthy Communities – I couldn’t help but to think of the negative impact of violence on our kids and our community.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This is a month for me, a crime victim advocate with Someplace Safe, to remind everyone that people in the county

do experience sexual assault, even though they may not want to talk about it and may not want anyone to know.

Throughout the year, I give presentations about Someplace Safe to a variety of groups in our community. I have spoken to Kiwanis, the GFWC, to several church groups, and to university staff and students, just to name a few. Often, people assume that most victims are students, but the reality is that many of

the survivors I work with are regular residents of Stevens County – people who live and work here, people who grew up here or moved here, people with kids here and people who are kids here. And the perpetrators of sexual violence can fit into all of these categories as well. I know because I see them in court.

Part of my job is to observe any court case involving domestic or sexual violence. If you’ve ever been in court, you

know that most defendants understand that they did something wrong and they pay their debt with very little drama. But if you ever see a criminal sexual conduct case, you may see a defendant who thinks they did nothing wrong. They might blame the victim, or tell the judge that they’re not responsible because they were too drunk to know what they were doing, or they may have some sort of misconcep-

Pajama Party with Llama Llama Wednesday, May 4th 6:30 to 7:30 pm

We survivors, family and We provide provideservices servicestotoassist assistvictims, victims, survivors, family friends who have been affected by domestic violence, sexual friends who have been affected by crimes, assault,and human trafficing exploitation, and other domestic violence, assault, or other stalking, robberysexual harassment, elder abusecrimes. etc.

All advocacy services are free and confidential Advocacy Office 320-589-3208 Parenting Time Center 320-424-2301 Thrift Store 320-585-6614

24 Hour Crisis Line 800-974-3359 www.someplacesafe.info

• Wear your pajamas for Pictures w/Llama • Crafts • Face Painting • Bedtime Snack: Milk & Cookies

Continuous Story time in the Meeting Room featuring the Llama Llama books

by Anne Dewdney

Thank You to the following who have donated money or are assisting with our Children’s Book Week event: Morris Friends of the Library, Morris Women of Today, Stevens County Child Care Association, Stevens County Dairy Association, and the Miss Morris and Candidates

Morris Public Library

102 East 6th Street • Morris, MN • 320-589-1634

www.morris.lib.mn.us

Sponsored in part by Friends of the Morris Public Library

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Crime Victim Advocacy, Parenting Time Centers, Community Thrift Stores

tion about the difference between right and wrong when it comes to personal relationships.

In those cases, I can’t help but think that if we taught our kids more about healthy relationships and healthy sexuality, they would grow up to be healthy adults instead of perpetrators and victims. They would know the difference between a partner who says “yes” and a partner who is unable to say “no.” And, when they see someone in a dangerous situation, they might have the tools they need to intervene.

That’s easier said than done. It’s hard for me to connect with kids in the community and kids don’t always talk to their parents because the topic is too uncomfortable.

That is why we have to get comfortable talking about the difference between sexual violence and healthy sexuality and why it is so important to come together as a com-

munity to say that sexual violence is not acceptable. The health of our kids and the health of our community is at stake.

What can you do in our local community to support survivors of sexual violence? You can take a stand against sexual violence by participating in Walk a Mile in Her Shoes. This year’s walk is on Tuesday, April 12 at the Someplace Safe office at 206 Atlantic Avenue (next to the orthodontist’s office). Registration begins at 11:30 a.m., walk at 12 p.m., lunch to follow. Everyone is welcome to participate and participants are encouraged to sign up in advance. Please contact Lisa Thom at 320-5893208 or lisa.t@someplacesafe.info for more information or come by on April 12. Participation in this great event can be the first step in increasing awareness and community involvement in preventing sexual violence.

APRIL 9 AND APRIL 14, 2016

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Minnesota Reading Corps making a difference

The Stevens County Early Childhood Initiative sponsored a Halloween Party on Thursday, Oct. 29, 2015.

Kids in Christ Preschool builds physical, emotional, spiritual health months to five years of age, per session. You have the freedom to choose a session or sessions that will work best for your family.

Classes are offered Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, from 8:45 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. with a full day option on Wednesdays until 2:45 p.m. The full day option is a chance for your 4 or 5 year old to get a better understanding of what will be expected when they go on to kindergarten. We are willing to work with you and your family to find which sessions will work best for your child, scholarships are also available. If you are interested in scheduling a visit or would like additional information, please call us at 320585-5067 to talk with Teacher Julie or leave a message.

Reading Corps members Rachel Balzar (above) and Marie Heller (below) work with pre-k students on reading skills.

The Morris Area’s four and five year old Pre-Kindergarten classes did a Repeated Read Aloud by Jan Thomas entitled “The Rhyming Dust Bunnies” over the course of two weeks.

Rich vocabulary was part of the discussion as the kids reviewed vocabulary cards containing both the word and picture.

Book and print rules were evident as the class described what happens in the beginning, middle, and end of the story. Oral language was vibrant as the students brainstormed rhyming words to answer each dust bunny’s question in the story.

Comprehension is evident when some children pretended to be “Bob,”

the dust bunny who can’t rhyme, and deliberately chose the wrong answers to stay in character. Our repeated readings of this story resulted in a deeper understanding of the plot, more fluent responses in rhyming skills, and adorable dust bunny art projects to hang in the Morris Public Library.

Reading is a fundamental skill that every child needs to be successful in school. The Reading Corps members throughout Minnesota and in Morris are making sure that students are receiving what they need to be lifelong readers.

Call For An Appointment To Tour The School and Register Your Child For Kindergarten or Preschool

324-7131

Chokio Alberta Public School

To enhance the health and well being of all who live, learn, work and play in the xÆØjÆX Ñ ÈÛÆ ¼ ß Æ Ñ ÈÛ¬

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KidsInChristPreschool hasbeenopenfor12years, and we have touched the lives of a number of children and their families during these years. We are a licensed Christian preschool that focuses on preparing children for kindergarten, both academically and socially. At our program we want children to have the chance to learn in a healthy Christian environment, where they will not only learn the basic skills of life but gain a healthy love for Jesus Christ our Savior too. Physical health is important but so is having a healthy spirit and relationship with Jesus.

As your child learns about the love of Christ they will be able to take that love for Christ with them in their day to day life and share it with others.

At Kids In Christ Preschool your child will have the chance to take part in large and small group activities. These activities will help your child develop people skills, such as getting along with others, having patience and communicating their needs.

There is also time to

work independently, to build self confidence and develop their God-given talents, which in turn will broaden their attitude for future learning.

This age is a great time to help them develop a joy for learning, which they can take with them as they continue on in elementary school, high school and even college. At Kids In Christ Preschool, we make learning a fun part of our whole class time, whether it be at morning meeting, free time, table time, meals, outside play or Bible time.

Learning opportunities also take part outside of our classroom, enjoying our fenced in outdoor play area and on field trips. We take a number of field trips within our community.

One recent trip was to Willie’s SuperValu where the boys and girls get the chance to purchase a food item for the food shelf and ring the Salvation Army Bells. On this day, not only do they get to learn about the behind the scenes at Willie’s but we work on developing their sense of compassion by helping those in need in our community.

Kids In Christ Preschool is licensed for 10 preschoolers, 33

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Julie Miller Kids in Christ Preschool

This year, the Minnesota Reading Corps has more than 1,200 tutors serving 30,000 students in elementary and pre-kindergarten classrooms across twelve states and the District of Columbia, including two members serving in our very own Morris Area PreKindergarten/School Readiness program.

Students who are not reading proficiently by third grade are four times more likely than proficient readers to drop out of high school.

The Minnesota Reading Corps was founded more than 12 years ago to combat this statistic, starting from the moment a child enters pre-kindergarten classes. PreKindergarten literacy tutors work embedded in the classroom, which means children receive intentional literacy instruction during their hours at school through games, songs, stories, and weekly journal entries.

The learning continues when the children leave school through the “Talk, Read, and Write with Me” bags taken home each week to encourage family engagement.

Our tutors also provide daily, one-on-one interventions with the students who need additional help to make sure they have the skills they need to stay on track for learning how to read in kindergarten. The Big Five pre-reading skills needed for students to become successful readers include: vocabulary, letter names, rhyming, alliteration, and letter sounds.

One of the most valuable strategies to improve literacy skills is called a “Repeated Read Aloud.”

Reading the same book multiple times has been proven to increase a child’s usage of words by up to 90 percent versus a one-time reading with only 10 percent word usage.

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APRIL 9 AND APRIL 14, 2016

Dental care outreach Chokio-Alberta ECFE offers support, education for parents and kids clinic coming to Morris

Kim Marty Chokio-Alberta ECFE The Chokio-Alberta ECFE program understands the importance of early experiences. Until recently most parents believed that intelligence was only inherited, however with the newest brain research, we now know that a huge amount of the brain's functioning and capacity develops after birth and that a baby or toddler's early experiences can greatly influence his or her future learning potential.

Every baby deserves parents who have an awareness of the basics of how a young brain naturally grows. It's the foundation for all of the other things we've long been taught to pay attention to in babies and young children, including physical milestones, social-emotional development, and speech. As a parent, being mindful of brain development from birth can significantly impact your child's future success in academics and in a healthy life. C-A ECFE

teaches parents that being a caring and connected parent protects your child's brain from harmful stress throughout his/her life.

Chokio-Alberta offers four types of classes for children birth to kindergarten. School Readiness class is for pre-kindergarten students ages four and five.

Parents have the choice of selecting one or two days of pre-kindergarten for their children. The classes meet on Mondays and Fridays from 8:15 a.m. to 3:06 p.m. in the ECFE/Kindergarten room in Chokio.

The Pre-school Plus class (three and four year olds) is a halfday preschool experience for children who are two years out from starting kindergarten.

These classes meet on Mondays from 8:15 to 11:15 a.m. These classes meet throughout the entire school year following the regular school calendar.

Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) is a special place for you and your young child ages three to five. It’s a place

where you can make friends with other parents who have children the same age as yours and share the same concerns, joys and challenges that you do. It’s a place where your child has the opportunity to play with other children in a safe, supportive environment just right for his or her age. ECFE is a place where a caring licensed staff, that understand children and parenting, come together with families to support parents and children on their journey.

Family Class, for children birth to five years of age and their parents, is held on Wednesdays from 6 to 7 p.m. in the ECFE/Kindergarten room and runs for nine weeks. This past year parents met each week for an additional 30 minutes and were educated on early childhood trauma.

Along with our regular classes, we also offer special events throughout the year. These events are intended for the whole family to enjoy, such as Family Swim Nights,

Pumpkin Pampering, Santa Claus Day, Easter Eggstravaganza, Movie Nights, Gym Nights, and a Family Formal Dance.

Our program encourages healthy choices by providing nutritious snacks for the events.

For the past two years the C-A School Readiness program had a 4-Star rating and received scholarship money from the Minnesota Department of Education. The scholarship is used to assist families with tuition, purchase new technology for the classroom and various learning materials to build a strong educational foundation. By attending family classes at C-A, you are not only spending time with your child but you are helping develop a sense of community for your child, yourself and others. Learning, playing and building long lasting friendships are what we strive to attain for both children and parents.

If you are interested in attending classes or have further questions please contact Kim Marty/ ECFE Coordinator at 324-7131.

The Early Childhood Dental Network (ECDN) is a regional group brought together by the West Central Initiative to address young children's oral health and their access to dental care.

One of the projects of the ECDN is Dental Outreach Clinics.

The ECDN, Caring Hands Dental Clinic, and the Stevens County Early Childhood Initiative are offering an Outreach Dental Clinic on Thursday, May 12 from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Morris Area Elementary School in the ECFE/SR Parent Education room in Pod A. This clinic is for children between the ages of 1 to 18 years of age who are covered by Minnesota Health Care Programs and Minnesota Medical Assistance.

Parental permission forms have been sent home with elementary

and preschool students.

The form can also be found on the Morris Area School web page by going to the school nurse under either the elementary or high school tab. Parental permission forms must be signed and returned to Diane Strobel, Morris Community Education, or Karen Folkman, Morris Area School Nurse, by Wednesday, April 27 in order to have your child treated. Once permission forms are received, an appointment time will be made for your child

by Caring Hands Dental.

Some of the services provided during the outreach clinic include complete check-ups, x-rays, cleanings, fluoride treatment, and education.

For more information or to have questions answered, call Caring Hands Dental at 320-8155711 or Diane Strobel at 320-585-2237.

Five things to know about Early Childhood Screenings What is Early Childhood Screening?

It involves a simple, easy method of finding out how a child between the ages of 3 and 4 is growing and developing. A new law states that early childhood screening must be done within 90 days of entering a pre-kindergarten program. The screening will be done by Horizon Public Health in Stevens County. Early Childhood Screening only needs to be completed once.

What are the goals of Early Childhood Screening?

• To find out how your child is growing and developing.

• To connect parent and child with early childhood programs and other community services that may be needed.

• To answer any parenting questions/concerns you may have.

• Identify any possible health or learning concerns so that they may be addressed before a child enters school.

At what age should my child be screened?

The ideal age to have your child screened is between 3 and 4. Early

Childhood Screening is not a kindergarten readiness assessment and should not be put off until right before kindergarten. Children usually go through screening one to two years before they enter kindergarten.

However, if your child is five years old and has not yet been through early childhood screening, call to arrange an appointment.

What happens to the information gathered at Early Childhood Screening?

You will be given a full report of the findings when your child finishes the screening appointment. You will receive one copy of the report and one copy will be placed in your child’s cumulative file with the school district.

How do I make an Early Childhood Screening Appointment?

If your child is 3 years 6 months and you haven’t received a call from Horizon Public Health to set up an appointment, call the Public Health office at 320-208-6688 to set up the day and time for your child’s screening.

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Reading builds tomorrow’s leaders There is a new program in Stevens County that is promoting literacy skills in our youngest learners. It is called “Today’s Readers Are Tomorrow’s Leaders” or the abbreviated title “Read to Lead.”

“Read to Lead” started when West Central Initiative shared a story about a similar project elsewhere in Minnesota.

Stevens County Early Childhood Initiative (ECI) coordinator Diane Strobel thought the Morris Kiwanis Club Charlie Oakes, a member of the Morris Kiwanis, reads to children in the Head Start Program. would be a good fit and passed the idea on to them. Kiwanis members happily got on board.

Kiwanis memeber Paul Martin reads to the children from Jackie Dripps’ daycare.

Reading Corps member, Marie Heller, trained the Kiwanis members using Repeated Read Aloud techniques that engage listeners deep into the book’s content.

Jackie Dripp’s Child Care agreed to come to a Kiwanis meeting to serve as a pilot group and the project was ready to begin.

Since November, Kiwanis volunteers have been going to the area pre-kindergarten programs to read to their students.

The Kiwanis member brings a high-quality, engaging children’s book to read to the class. Each

student is given a copy of the book to take home with them and a copy is left for the classroom.

The next phase of the program is to visit day care homes in Stevens County; getting a new children’s book into the hands of each child.

Study after study has shown early reading experiences to be the most important factor in school success.

If you would like more information about the “Read to Lead” program, you can call Kiwanis member Sue Dieter at 320-5892525 or Diane Strobel at 320-585-2237.

Jackie Dripps brought her daycare to the Morris Kiwanis meeting to help them prepare for the Read to Lead program. Member Gordon McIntosh reads to the children.

These businesses salute the families in our community.

Morris Area Child Care Center

Stevens Community Medical Center

University of Minnesota, Morris

1001 1/2 Scotts Ave., Morris

400 East 1st St., Morris (320) 589-1313

600 East 4th St., Morris (320) 589-6035

(320) 589-7948

scmcinc.org

morris.umn.edu

West Central Wiring & Consulting

Mohr Plumbing & Heating

(320) 815-4062 walter@wcwiring.com www.wcwiring.com

46400 E. Hwy. 28, Morris (320) 589-1006

Elbow Lake Dental Center, Inc.

Thrifty White Pharmacy

18 W. Division, Elbow Lake

Midwest Family Eye Care

3 Hwy 28 East, Morris

(218) 685-4710

(320) 589-4550

512 Atlantic Ave., Morris (320) 589-1300

Prairie Ridge Hospital & Health Services

McGinnis Appliance Heating & Cooling

Stevens County Ambulance

601 Atlantic Ave., Morris (320) 589-3933

209 St Hwy 9, Morris (320) 589-7421

Morris Area Schools 201 S. Columbia Ave., Morris (320) 589-4840

Morris Sun Tribune 607 Pacific Ave., Morris (320) 589-2525

Hancock Record P.O. Box 425, Hancock (320) 392-5527 Located at: 607 Pacific Ave., Morris

24 East 7th St., Morris (320) 589-4008 Hoffman, Elbow Lake, Ashby & Evansville

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APRIL 9 AND APRIL 14, 2016

CUTE AS A BUTTON Bailey Capri Baumler

Briella Chantal Backman

Bradley Carson Baumler

Jacob Wayne Summer

Birthdate: 02/19/2013 Parents: Heather and Jacob Baumler

Birthdate: 09/24/2015 Parents: Wade and Fallon Backman

Birthdate: 12/09/2010 Parents: Heather and Jacob Baumler

Birthdate: 08/13/2015 Parents: Ben and Brianna Summer

Grandparents: Irene Maloney

Grandparents: Deb Powell

Grandparents: Irene Maloney

Grandparents: Judy Neuman

Josie Jane Kurpierz

Kaidence Mae Peterson

Leland James Burrow

Parker Ray Krupke

Birthdate: 11/16/2015 Parents: Joe and Christina Kurpierz

Raelyn Vera Smith

Birthdate: 08/14/2015 Parents: Demi Roiland and Cody Smith Grandparents: Tony and Heidi Roiland

Birthdate: 12/31/2013 Parents: Kelsey and Wes Peterson

Birthdate: 04/18/2013 Parents: James and Jena Burrow

Grandparents: Irene Maloney

Grandparents: Scott and Beth Heinrich

Birthdate: 11/16/2014 Parents: Amanda Cleland and Dan Krupke Grandparents: Yvonne Krupke

CUTE AS A BUTTON, SWEET AS CAN BE, EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM.