y o u r
c e n t r a l
v a l l e y
f a m i l y
r e s o u r c e
Behavior
10 Commandments of Successful Sleepovers
Gardening
Cool Season Veggies
Nutrition
Kids and Crock-Pot Cooking
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RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013
EDITOR’S LETTER
W
hen new parents first learn they are expecting, the initial reaction is universal: as long as the baby is healthy, little else matters. Expectant mothers might change their diets, exchange caffeine or soda for water, and excited fathers look forward to baby’s first words or steps. It’s all laid out in the hearts and minds of new parents like a perfectly written play.
But what happens when baby doesn’t follow the script? What happens when a child’s development doesn’t seem on target with others their age? When development is delayed it is both confusing and often frightening for parents. Early detection and intervention is key in these circumstances and Central Valley Regional Center is a valuable resource in providing guidance and support. In this issue, CVRC addresses some of the early warning signs in “Your Child’s Development” found on page 17. Every month we feature topics on the physical and emotional health of our young children. Equally important, but less talked about, is the need to create or protect our children’s financial health. On page 15, local CPA Doug Berg explains how estate planning and trusts are not just for the rich and famous. As with most things in life, it’s always better to be prepared. When it’s 100 degrees outside it’s nearly impossible to think about fall, but that’s exactly what Master Gardener Susan Schieferle is doing. On page 12, “Cool Season Veggies” gets us excited about planting Swiss chard and making yummy and healthy chard chips. After my nearly 30 years of parenting, humor writer Crystal R.R. Edwards still makes me laugh. “Mama Stands Down,” on page 8 asks the all too common question, “do I want to die on this hill?” and gives perspective about what’s really important in the motherdaughter relationship. It’s been a great month at Raise and we’re already making plans for the October issue. We appreciate the feedback we receive, so if there’s a topic you’d be interested in learning more about, please let us know.
Karen Tellalian, EXECUTIVE EDITOR For more information or to submit a story idea, email Karen@dmiagency.com or call (559) 739-1747 or fax (559) 738-0909.
p.s. For What’s Fresh now check out our bookmark on page 21.
RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013
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Gardening Cool Season Veggies SEP
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PUBLISHED BY DMI Agency 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291 EDITORIAL Executive Editor Karen Tellalian Content Coordinator katIE presser ART & PRODUCTION Art Director ROSS Yukawa Graphic Designer CHRIS BLY CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
in this issue
ADAM VALENCIA BARRY SOMMER Crystal R. R. Edwards Jesus & Adriana Gonzalez
6
Behavior
15 Financial
10 Commandments of Successful Sleepover
16 Arts & Crafts
8
Humor
Mama Stands Down
10 Positive Parenting
CASA’s New Family Search and Engagement Program
14 Reading List
Adventurous Books to Capture Kids’ Chaotic Interests
20 Nutrition
17 Development 18 Achievement 19 Dental 23 Happy Trails 26 Adventure 27 Kids Corner 28 Calendar 30 Safety 31 Resources
Kids and Crock-Pot Cooking
The Four-Year University
24 Health
Important Reasons to Immunize Your Child
Raise Magazine is distributed in Visalia, Exeter, Woodlake and Tulare. If you would like copies available at your business, call 559.739.1747 Raise Magazine is published 12 times a year and distributed at hightraffic locations in the South Valley area. For a list of locations, call the DMI Agency office. Views expressed in columns are those of the columnist and not necessarily those of DMI Agency or its advertisers. © 2013 DMI Agency
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RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013
KELLEY PETTY Keith E. Williams LEE LITTLEWOOD MARILYN BARR Susan Schieferle Lindsey Harrison BUSINESS MANAGEMENT Malkasian Accountancy LLP Gary Malkasian CPA JEFFREY Malkasian EA Operations Manager Maria Gaston ADVERTISING SALES Advertising Director Bridget Elmore Account Executive Bryce McDonald
22 College Prep
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Mike Mayo, LCSW Lisa A. Miller, PhD
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Linda Del Rio, LMFT
Diane B. Post, LCSW
Lynn W. Gonzales, LCSW
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THE GRIGORYAN FAMILY Simon, Hyke, Gary and Mariya
RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013
5
BEHAVIOR
Commandments of Successful Sleepovers Text by Barry Sommer, Educational Psychologist, Marriage and Family Therapist
S
ummer is ending and suddenly all kids want to have sleepovers with their friends on the weekends. What sounds like an easy, fun-filled time can become a disaster without adequate planning, experience and communication. However, there are great learning, development and social opportunities when children learn to manage sustained time with
friends. Here’s a simple checklist to support a great outcome for your child, their guests and you!
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RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013
BEHAVIOR 1. You shall not host a sleepover until your child is truly ready. You know the child is ready when he says he’d like to try it, when he starts packing a bag and planning games to play. That said, kids as young as five can probably handle a small overnight visit with one or two close friends or cousins, but many children are not ready till they’re eight or nine. Another question to consider is whether your pint-sized guests are ready. If you’re unsure, a good compromise might be a “half” sleepover, in which guests wear pajamas, have fun and then leave around 9 p.m. Consider an opt-out policy – make it clear that kids are welcome to be picked up at bedtime and can call home at any time if they decide not to stay. 2. You shall limit the guest list. Start small – with maybe one to three guests. Build the guest list as you and your child have more positive experiences or for special occasions like birthdays. Consider the personalities involved too. Aim for an even number of kids, including the host. An odd number means someone can easily be left out. 3. You shall honor your guests’ parents. The success of your sleepover is directly proportional to the amount of information shared – both outgoing and incoming. Invitations should clearly state drop-off and pickup times, whether meals are included, what kids should bring (sleeping bag, pillow), a little info about supervision and any planned activities, plus a contact number. Talk to the other parents about their child’s sleepover experience, food allergies and nighttime habits. For example, some parents may expect a phone call before bed. 4. You shall be considerate of the foods you serve. Mini-pizzas, veggies and dip, fresh fruit, pretzels, popcorn and other light, nut-free foods and snacks are wise choices. Sweet and heavy foods make falling asleep more difficult. Making individual pizzas can suffice as dinner and as an activity. Or, set up bowls of toppings for makeyour-own sundaes or cupcakes. 5. You shall relax about the activities, yet have a plan and establish boundaries. Children typically respond positively to rules if they are clear that they are your rules and you establish them right away. A “welcome meeting” often works well. Tell the guests about all the great activities you have planned. The best activities allow everyone to get involved – unlike a video game, say, where only one or two can play. Encourage, but don’t force anyone to play the games and do the crafts. Good ideas include: decorating cupcakes or making sundaes; watching age-appropriate, non-scary movies; creating a video; doing karaoke; playing board games; making forts; swimming, and safe, active, outdoor play.
6. You shall be nearby, and have a code. Keep younger kids within hearing distance on the same floor as you; with older kids in the basement or a separate recreation room, check in every 15 to 30 minutes. Establishing a code phrase that your child can say to you if things are getting out of control or a guest is having trouble (the phrase could be as simple as “What time is it?”) allows you to step in and help, but no one feels singled out. 7. You shall honor the level sleeping field. A circle of sleeping bags on a living room or bedroom floor, space permitting, means everyone is connected and equal. Plus, this prevents kids from falling on each other from a bed, and squelches arguments about who gets to sleep where. Place night lights in bathrooms and hallways so it is easier for your guests to navigate in the middle of the night. 8. You shall make sleep possible. Let the children know when lights out will occur and what’s expected of them. Dim the lights leading up to that time, and possibly hand out flashlights once the lights are off. Showing an age-appropriate movie once the kids have prepared for bed usually settles them down. If the giggling hasn’t stopped well into the wee hours, consider sleeping with them yourself. 9. You shall prepare for forgotten toothbrushes and sudden exits. Expect the unexpected: Have extra sleeping bags, blankets, pillows and toiletries available. Toothbrushes are forgotten most. Almost all of the parents we talked to had also primed their guests’ parents to expect a phone call in case their child got homesick or out of control. 10. You shall remember that the last 20–30 minutes is what the guests will remember when they reflect on the sleepover. Make the last few minutes great – special food, a favored activity, some pictures to bring home. Establish and clearly communicate a morning pick-up time. Expect delayed parents and have your child help with the cleanup. Yes, sleepovers can be overwhelming and exhausting. Let’s face it; they can be a downright nightmare. But with planning and forethought, you and your child’s friends can have a positive experience. Follow the guidelines to create some magical memories and, hopefully, an even stronger bond of friendship, for your child and her guests.
RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013
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HUMOR
Mama Stands Text by Crystal R. R. Edwards
Down I
was nearly finished with the dishes when my cell phone pinged with a new message. I wiped my hands on a towel and dove for the phone. I was expecting to hear from a client on an important issue, and all forward progress for my current project
depended upon a simple “Yes” or “No” text from him. I flicked my finger across my phone’s screen and saw I’d received something from my 10-year-old daughter instead: “r u makin diner?”
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RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013
HUMOR
Birdie Sue had been up in her room, the last I knew. I was slightly annoyed. I couldn’t figure out why she felt a text was necessary, but I decided to play along and let my inner editor out to romp a bit: Me: I just finished dishes. I’ll be cooking in a moment. Why? Her: is chkn? Me: It’s not checking, no. Unless you meant chunking. And it’s not doing that either. It’s just lying there right now. Her: chicken Me: Oh. No. Pork. Her: sigh Me: You don’t like pork? What’s wrong with pork? It’s chops. You like chops. Her: sigh = chunking Me: I’m sorry the pork chops aren’t chunking. I’ll talk to them and see if we can come to an agreement. I don’t even know what chunking is. You kids confuse me. Her: frgt it Me: I’m not going to refrigerate it. I’m going to cook it. Are you okay? Did you break fingers? Her: SIGH By this time I was holed up in my bedroom’s walk-in closet, giggling hysterically. I eventually heard her stomp down the stairs, plug her phone in at the charging station in the kitchen (ktchn?), and stomp back up to her room. I have many friends with children around the same age as Birdie Sue. These friends will launch into a vent at any moment about the trials their children represent. The attitudes, the texting, the inability to follow through on things like cleaning the room or feeding the pets are all woven into a single brilliant tirade over a glass of wine or meal out. I smile and nod. I don’t really know what else to do. I appreciate a good rant as well as the next disaffected woman, and I sympathize with their frustrations; however, I cannot really empathize. I don’t find it very frustrating yet. I’m amused, more than anything. It also gives me a lot of writing material. This isn’t to say we don’t have our differences. Rather, our similarities. What I mean is … this is confusing. We butt heads because she can be so very, very much like me when I’m not being The Mom. I couldn’t care less if the clothes are folded, so we’re clear on that sort of issue. What I do need is for her to put them in her drawers instead of slinging them across the second twin bed in her room and then burying them in running shoes, books and thousands of little folded-up notes from friends. So now and then a disagreement will start between us. I call her out for being excessively lazy or messy or kid-like, and she dresses me down for being a helicopter mom, overly particular, or snobby. I hate these moments. In my non-parenting life I am lazy and messy and just really pretty awful myself, and most certainly not any of those things. The flip side of this, of course, is that in her non-child-of-aparent life, she is most certainly not lazy, messy or even kid-like. She’s a mature, intelligent, capable girl about to blossom into an amazing young woman.
During these battles, I often must stop and ask myself: “Do I want to die on this hill?” The answer, of course, is no. No, I do not. Eventually she’ll figure out that the clothes need to be put away. Eventually she’ll figure out that texting shorthand will lead to confusing situations and messed-up communication. Eventually she’ll figure out that coming down the stairs to ask about supper takes 30 seconds, instead of wasting the five minutes we spent batting messages back and forth. Until then, I need to chillax. (I learned that word, a mash-up between “relax” and “chill,” last week in a text war about whether she was ready to meet a friend at the movie theater without my being present. The answer was still no, but my knowledge increased. Silver linings!) A few weeks ago we went shopping for some new clothes, just Birdie Sue and me. We don’t often get the chance to hang out one-on-one, and it had been some months since our last outing. Initially I was a bit nervous. I’m not the manicure buddy mom, nor am I the shopping mom, nor am I the sort of mom who can talk knowledgeably about the latest girl trends. I’m low-maintenance, bookish and an unrepentant tomboy. I can’t even relate on a basic level to the all-pink club. I was afraid she’d want to discuss frills, accessories or hair styles. I had no idea if the past four months or so had turned her into this kind of girl. I actually crammed by reading a copy of Seventeen Magazine just hours before. I shouldn’t have worried. My 10-year old apple followed this awkwardly shopping tree around, asking aloud questions such as, “Why do they sell shirts that make you look like a pink wedding cake?” and “Mom, do you think we could shop at the sports store instead?” We left the department store, kicking up a rooster tail of dust and discarded ideals of femininity behind us. At the sports store, we loaded up on Champion and Adidas clothing, then we stopped somewhere to grab a couple of ice teas and talk about books and the best way to set up a tent on a hillside in high wind. That evening the kids all trooped upstairs to watch a movie in the play room before bedtime and she took her phone up with her. Her cut-off for texting friends is 8 p.m., so there’s usually a last-minute flurry of activity on her phone after supper. I’d just sat down with my laptop to work on a project when my phone pinged. I groaned and grabbed for it, expecting to see my client’s name in the sender’s field and a long message involving changes it was almost too late to make before my deadline. It wasn’t his name at all. “u r awsm” I replied: “s r u <3” The Armageddon, the Ragnarok, the Final Battle Between Mother and Teen Daughter – this still looms. But until then, I’m chillaxin’.
RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013
9
POSITIVE PARENTING
CASA’s New Family Search and Engagement Program Text by Marilyn Barr, Executive Director, CASA
C
ASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Tulare County is a non-profit organization that trains community volunteers to serve as advocates for our community’s children and youth living in foster care. With the help of generous funding assistance from First 5 Tulare County and a partnership with Tulare County Child Welfare Services, CASA is implementing a new program to identify and engage family members in the lives of courtappointed children who are in foster care. The Family Search and Engagement Program will provide more focus on promptly finding “family” members of children in foster care. There is compelling evidence that children who have connections to their family members and close, non-relative individuals have improved behavior, healthier relationships, improved school performance, and more hopefulness in their lives. Our goal is to provide permanency by connecting these youth to as many appropriate/safe family members – relatives and non-relatives – as possible. “Permanency” is a priority of Child Welfare Services and CASA for every child in their care. Permanency is not just a legal definition, because all children need, deserve and have a right to loving, caring, permanent relationships with other human beings. CASA views permanency as an unconditional commitment, a sense of well-being and connectedness; a someone who will be there “no matter what.” Every child needs a sense of belonging, and having stable relationships provides this feeling. Foster care is meant to be a temporary haven for children living in unstable conditions. Yet, each year, young adults between the ages of 18 and 21 exit the system after being in it for years. Many leave without any support, family connections or the skills they need to succeed. Under these circumstances, youth often have trouble staying in school, finding stable housing, financially supporting themselves, and securing medical services. Long-term foster care should not be an option, but it is something that occurs far too often.
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RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013
CASA has advocated for countless children who came in to the system at a young age and unfortunately stayed in the system until they became legal adults. No appropriate individuals stepped up or were ever identified for these children, so there was no other option for them. Often CASA volunteers are the most consistent caring adult in our children’s uprooted lives. Many of our children move foster homes frequently, mostly due to behavior-related incidents. This creates an unhealthy cycle when taking into consideration that each child in foster care is a victim of trauma when they enter the dependency system, and each move thereafter is another trauma. There is never time for them to heal. Children are more likely to maintain stability in a home when connected or living with people who love them. Children – simply put – are better off with family as long as it is safe. This is why the Family Search and Engagement Program is so significant. It entails a more in-depth and focused search to find those who are willing to be a part of these children’s lives. It has been proven that when children feel connected to people who care about them, their number of critical incidents decreases. Advocates for foster children have realized that having an appropriate connection for these children is as urgent as their need for safety. Our children’s future often depends on finding caring individuals from their past. According to Kevin Campbell’s research for the “Family Finding” model, each child has at least 40 connections. Together with First 5 Tulare County and Tulare County Child Welfare Services, we will be searching for those safe, appropriate connections to ensure that our children do not feel alone, and leave the foster care system when possible. CASA’s Family Search efforts will be focused as always, on the best interests of each child. As the famous quote from John Donne states, “No man is an island.” No child should be either. CASA has been serving the abused and neglected children of our county since 1984. If you are interested in learning more about how you can make a positive difference in the life of an abused and neglected child, please call CASA of Tulare County at (559) 625-4007 and visit our website, www.casatulareco.org. There are innocent children waiting for you.
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RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013
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GARDENING
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RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013
GARDENING
cool season
Veggies Text by Susan Schieferle, Master Gardener, University of California Cooperative Extension
A
lthough it is still very warm outside, it is time to think about what to plant now to harvest in late fall and early winter. There are many cool season veggies, which include Asian greens, beets, carrots, chard, lettuce, green onions, peas, spinach and turnips. This month we are going to plant Swiss chard seeds! Why Swiss chard?
Here are some awesome reasons: 1. Swiss chard is a versatile vegetable full of nutrients including vitamins A and C, magnesium, iron and calcium. 2. It is easy to grow and very tolerant of warm temperatures. 3. It can be easily incorporated into your ornamental plant landscape as several Swiss chard seed varieties have colorful stems and bright green leaves. The plant can just be harvested a few leaves at a time, leaving your landscape looking colorful from the remaining leaves. 4. Why will your children LOVE Swiss chard? It has a sweet tasting leaf similar to lettuce. You can make chard chips (recipe follows) and use it in lots of other recipes. Wood Industries will provide a FREE gallon bag of garden soil to any child who stops in to start a garden project! 7715 Ave. 296, Visalia 559.625.9426
Chard is a veggie that can be planted both in early fall or spring. The recommended varieties for Tulare/Kings Counties are Lucullus, Charlotte and Rhubarb. Rhubarb and Charlotte chard are often grown in flower beds. Check your local nursery for other seed varieties.
September Gardening Tip: September can be hot and dry. Watch your plants for signs of water stress (wilting in early morning or evening). Keep them well watered. Mulch to help control weeds and keep moisture in the soil.
How to Plant: 1. Chard prefers a well-drained soil mixed with compost or manure to help retain moisture. 2. Plant seeds 1/2-inch deep in the ground with 2-3 seeds per hole to ensure germination. Be sure to keep the strongest seeding if all 3 germinate and discard the weaker ones. If you are planting a row of chard, space the seeds 2 inches apart. Germination should occur in 5 to 10 days. 3. Thin the seedlings (in a row) to stand 12 inches apart as the plants are tall and full. 4. Make sure the chard has 1-inch of water weekly. 5. Harvest when there are 6 to 8 stalks and leaves are 5-6 inches, usually 8-12 weeks after sowing. Cut the stems 1-inch above the ground. Leaves and stems are edible raw, steamed and sautéed. The stems will taste similar to celery. Incorporate chard into green salads, soups (such as chicken noodle), and even into casseroles. My favorite way to prepare chard is loved by the fifth graders at Hurley Elementary School. After harvesting the chard, I took it home and thoroughly washed and dried it. I tore it in 3-inch pieces, tossed with olive oil and sprinkled with garlic salt. Then, I spread the chard in a rectangular pan and roasted at 400 degrees for 10 to 20 minutes, turning once or twice with a spatula. The chard will turn a light brown. Cool the chips. Store in an airtight container … that is, if there is any left to store! The fifth graders couldn’t get enough!
August Follow-up: Hopefully, there will be shoots emerging from your seed potato. Be sure to cover up the bottom 3 inches of the shoots when they grow 6 inches tall. Repeat this process until harvest.
RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013
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READING LIST
K
ids today sometimes have a hard time staying interested in reading, thanks to the high-energy feel of video games, TV and the Internet. These middle-grade tales are extra-adventurous and sure to thrill.
Three-Ring Rascals: The Show Must Go On by Kate Klise; illustrated by M. Sarah Klise Children not accustomed to the high-energy hoopla associated with circuses are missing out on a classically entertaining rite of passage. This fun tale, penned for the 7-to-10-year-old crowd, is the start of a new series from an awardwinning team, and bursts with jokes, wordplay, signs, documents and bold line drawings. When kindly circus owner Sir Sidney becomes too tired to travel with his show, Barnabas Brambles answers the want ad, touting himself as “degreed in lion taming from the University of Piccadilly Circus.” His shake-up of this circus’ traditions isn’t too popular, however, as he pushes for more shows in more cities, with no free popcorn. Enter the young performers, who aim to keep Sir Sidney’s Circus as it was, with gourmet peanuts for Elsa the Elephant and not-so-much taming for star Leo the lion. Clean-cut, funny, almost vintage in its appeal, Klise’s first book in the Three-Ring Rascals is a fun keeper for girls and boys. The Further Adventures of Jack Lime by James Leck This zesty detective series for middle graders reads like a stylish whodunit, with writing akin to adult mysteries but aimed at kids. “I was closed alright; I was closed big time,” reads a beginning sentence. Jack Lime is a self-styled private eye who solves problems for his fellow students. In the book’s three cases, Jack navigates a gritty high school underworld with pimply gangstas and guntoting femmes fatales. In this second book in the series, Jack continues to hunt a hot comic instead of a rodent-napped hamster, proving there’s no case too small for P.I. Jack Lime. The Case of the Missing Quarterback, The Case of the Red Envelope and The Comic Book Caper are the three uber-cool challenges our tough-butsweet hero has on his plate. A hoot of a book and series, “Jack Lime” rocks! On the Run by Clara Bourreau Young Anthony grows up thinking his father is busy traveling the world as a wildlife photographer. In reality, Dad is in prison, awaiting trial. When everyone at school finds 14
RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013
Adventerous Books to Capture Kids’ Chaotic Interests
out, they taunt Anthony about having a criminal for a father. In true dramatic fashion, Anthony’s father escapes from the courthouse. Anthony, missing his dad, joins him, sending both on the run from the law. Like a high-energy action movie, Anthony’s dad slowly lets his son in on why he was jailed, but still acts every bit like a caring, concerned father. Bourreau’s thoughtful tale proves the man feels guilty for his part in bank robberies, and showcases the love that still stands between father and son. The action-packed ending of On the Run will surprise young audiences and will certainly thrill and entertain them. The Slither Sisters by Charles Gilman The second in the creepy-but-cool middle grade series Lovecraft Middle School, this wacky book features a holographic front cover with two girls, turning from looking normal to having snakes on their heads. In the funky story, Sarah and Sylvia Price resemble normal middle school students, but they’re actually hideous monsters in disguise. They even run for student council and have plans to abduct the entire seventh grade. There is plenty of action and adventure, and outrageous monsters reign in Gilman’s popular new series; this is the second book. Bravery also figures in as 12-yearold Robert and his best friend – with the help of the school bully, the school ghost and a hungry two-headed rat – help to save the day.
Text by Lee Littlewood
FINANCIAL
Imagine the Unimaginable … TODAY! Text by Doug M. Berg, Certified Public Accountant
M
any of us dismiss “estate planning” as only for the “rich and famous.” Is there another use for wills and trusts appropriate to the rest of us? The answer emphatically is YES!
Suppose you are living the perfect life raising your (sometimes, at least) perfect children. Suppose, too, that it all comes to an unexpected end on some foggy Valley highway. Sudden passing leaves no time for goodbyes or planning for the care and support of your children. It is too late to ask your favorite sister to care for the kids over the next 20 years and too late to purchase the life insurance to support her efforts. To make matters worse, the equity in your home disappeared in the recession and you never got around to re-starting those 401(k) contributions you halted a few years ago to help “make ends meet.” To make this a real world challenge, suppose, too, that your sister is a single parent raising three kids of her own. Lastly, you could expect your children to need counseling to cope with their loss. If my assumptions are too shocking and extreme to consider, the challenge of providing for the care and support of your children in times of crisis and loss is very real. Estate and financial planning are essential to responsible parenting. A properly drafted will should be a forward-thinking document by outlining what you want for your children. If you discuss these issues with your sister, consider the costs she will incur. Where will the money come from?
Help protect their future
A trust funded with life insurance proceeds provides the financial means to support your sister in her efforts of caring for your children. Further, a trust can carry with it a level of professional oversight to ensure that the money is properly invested for the long-term and disbursed according to your wishes. Is life insurance too costly? My answer is “no,” considering what you are buying. “First-to-die” policies, group-term life insurance policies, etc., all can reduce costs. Creating a plan of care requires time and earnest discussion among all involved. With discussion, there will come an understanding and acceptance of priorities. Estate attorneys, certified public accountants, life insurance agents, ministers, family and friends can all play a role in your planning. The starting point is to imagine the unimaginable. Remember, only through a will can you influence the future after your passing.
AT TEN TION Tulare Count y Photographers Raise Magazine is looking for cover photo submissions
What if the unimaginable happens? Who will provide for your children? Estate and financial planning are essential to responsible parenting. Call today to assure the future care of your children without you.
Also ask about: • Budgeting • Investment/retirement planning • IRS collection matters
Schedule your consultation today!
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What kind of photos?
Please submit
Vertical format high-quaility Children (ages 5-15), or electronic files only children with pet No group, sibling or family photos Photos are free to submit, but submission does not guarantee placement. EMAIL PHOTOS TO RAISE@DMIAGENCY.COM
RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013
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ARTS & CRAFTS
FamilyFriendly
Pet Rocks I
f there seems to be one universal constant in this world it is that children are fascinated with animals. Pets in particular connect well with children. In celebration of all the animals that enrich the lives of kids everywhere, this month we are creating pet rocks. This craft is excellent for children who adore animals or have a large imagination. Whether they are crafting their favorite animal or creating something brand new, there is no wrong way to make a pet rock. With a few basic items, kids can create a friend that fits in their pocket and doesn’t destroy the carpet!
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Text by Lindsey Harrison, Museum Intern ImagineU Interactive Children’s Museum
What you will need: 1. A smooth rock, about the size of a child’s fist 2. Washable tempura paint of various colors 3. Googly eyes 4. Non-toxic white glue 5. Optional: felt, feathers, glitter, yarn Directions: 1. Rinse your rock under water to clean it of any dirt. Pat dry. 2. Choose a base color for the “skin” or “fur” of the rock. Paint and then let dry. 3. Paint on features (nose, mouth, fin, etc.) with a different color(s). Let dry. 4. When all the paint is dry on your rock, glue on the googly eyes and any other fun extras like feathers, felt, or yarn. 5. When you are all done, make sure to give your new pet a name!
Tips: The best type of rocks to use are river rocks since they are smooth and even in texture. Rocks come in all different shapes, so get creative! Don’t worry about only using small round ones. If you want to have a sparkly pet, glitter can often be applied directly to wet paint to save you the glue. Using paint to make the eyes is a good alternative if you don’t have googly eyes. In fact, paint can be used to create any extra features, if you don’t have any of the optional materials. Creativity is the most important part of this craft. Children can make any animal they want, in any way they want, even make up a brand new critter all of their own! Let their imagination run wild as they put together a new friend for themselves, one that doesn’t need to eat or leave behind huge messes. Encouraging your child to use their imagination and be creative in crafts like this is not only fun, it is healthy for their development. It will help them develop abilities that will later lay the foundation for the ability to think critically and produce problem solving solutions. Such abilities are important for any child’s eventual success.
DEVELOPMENT
Your Child’s Development Text by Central Valley Regional Center, CVRC
“Babies are such a nice way to start people” – Don Herold
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very parent marvels and swells with pride at the amazing progress of their newborn. The first years of life are filled with milestones we parents just can’t wait to see. “When will my baby smile at me? Crawl? Take his first steps? Say his first words?” All these milestones are anxiously awaited, and at times, are not reached when expected.
The period from birth to five years is one of tremendous change, opportunity and vulnerability for healthy social, emotional, cognitive and physical development. Many factors provide critical, foundational support for development during this time. Most important is the nature of early relationships. Key findings from the report “From Neurons to Neighborhoods: The Science of Early Childhood Development,” indicate that your relationship with your baby is the foundation for his or her healthy development. What your child experiences, including how you respond to him or her, shapes their development and how they adapt to their world. You are your baby’s best teacher! All areas of development depend on and influence the others. In the first six months, body control, movement, facial expressions, touch, sound and response to environmental cues are components of individual skills, but they are also integral in the development of language and communication. Your child’s pediatrician assesses delays
in speech and language development during scheduled checkups at various ages as part of ongoing development screenings. If you or your child’s pediatrician have concerns regarding speech and language development, the physician may make a referral to a Regional Center for further assessment. The assessment process for children under the age of three includes evaluation of the child’s motor skills, communication development, learning skills, social interaction and emotional development. Depending on the needs of the child and the parents’ choices, early intervention services may potentially include an infant development program, family training, psychological services, speech and language services, or occupational and physical therapy. For further information on early intervention services contact Central Valley Regional Center: Visalia 738-2200; Fresno, 276-4300; Merced (209) 723-4245.
12th Annual
September 21 & 22
Visalia Convention Center Come visit over 250 EXHIBITS to help you DECORATE, REMODEL and IMPROVE your HOME this fall!
CENTRAL VALLEY
Kid’s Cook-off
Enter to WIN A $5000 MASTER BEDROOM MAKEOVER!
LAST CALL!
Don’t wait! Submit your recipe online at www.VisaliaHomeShows/KidsCookOff Deadline to enter: Sept 6th Enter to win a Build-A-Bear party for you and nine of your friends! Visit the YMCA and Visalia Parks & Recreation booths for fall schedule information Sponsored By:
Fo r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n : w w w. Vi s a l i a H o m e S h o w s . c o m o r c a l l ( 5 5 9 ) 7 1 3 - 4 0 0 0 RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013
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ACHIEVEMENT
Student Achievements
Character Counts Text by Kelley Petty, Character Counts! Coordinator, Tulare County Office of Education
Community Service
Dipak Kumar The beginning of a new school year finds many high school seniors wondering where their time in high school has gone. But if you ask Tulare Western senior Dipak Kumar, he will tell you that he stayed involved in activities and worked toward academic excellence. Dipak has been chosen as a standout of community service and leadership among his school, peers and community. In reviewing his resume, including representing Tulare Western at multiple youth conferences and serving as a club officer, ambassador and FFA Regional President, it is clear that Dipak accepts these opportunities and awards with a further purpose in mind. His principal, Mrs. Van Scyoc, sums up this purpose best, “With all of Dipak’s accomplishments, he is always very humble. He is a true leader on campus who has earned the respect of his classmates and positively influences their actions.” With guidance from his parents, Dipak has learned to not only lead, but to inspire others to reach their full potential. These challenges, strengths and experiences have allowed Dipak to conclude his high school career with one word: ready.
Academic
Elena Galvez “Elena’s presence on campus has a ripple effect that spreads positive energy,” says Granite Hills High School teacher and coach Rich Lambie. Elena Galvez is starting her senior year with an excellent academic record and an overall grade point average of 4.13. Looking toward her future, Elena plans to be the first in her family to attend college. As she thinks about her years at Granite Hills she says, “It warms my heart to know that I have become a positive role model, whether in marching band, competing on the basketball court or working in the classroom.” Academic achievement has allowed Elena to attend many youth leadership conferences, including Camp Royal Leadership Camp and Camp Country Jamboree. This summer, Elena also attended the Chicano Latino Youth Leadership Project where she learned about accessing community resources, advocating for the needs of others and preparing for her college studies. Whether Elena chooses to pursue a political or medical course of study, one thing is certain – she will meet her academic duties with excellence!
Leadership
Shelby Lozano As a four-year, all season student athlete, Granite Hills High School senior Shelby Lozano rarely finishes her school day without some sort of athletic practice or competition. Her teammates describe her as the most encouraging teammate, while her coaches describe her as always being respectful and punctual. Shelby was recently awarded the East Sequoia League’s Pursuing Victory with Honor Award. This award was a result of officials recognizing Shelby’s fine sportsmanship throughout the season. Principal Mr. Marroquin states, “Shelby sets the standard for integrity for our student body beyond the athletic court and classroom.” She reaches out in numerous volunteer efforts, including Rotary Interact, serving as a Granite Hills student ambassador, a LINK Leader Commissioner, and on the Missed Serves Serving Others committee. Shelby’s selfless character stems from her thought that, “I want to make sure I carry myself appropriately and always play with the notion of others before self, without losing the competitive purpose of sports.”
If you know of an outstanding student, contact Kelley Petty, Tulare County Office of Education CHARACTER COUNTS! Coordinator at (559) 740-4303 18
RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013
DENTAL HEALTH
Keep your Families Teeth
Healthy for a Lifetime Text by Keith E. Williams, DDS, Williams Family Dental
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ost teeth and problems in the mouth are caused by dental plaque build-up. Plaque is that icky layer of bacteria, food particles and other organic matter that forms on the surface of the teeth. Acid produced by bacteria cause cavities to form. Plaque also causes periodontal disease which can lead to the loss of the tissue and bone supporting the teeth. The best way to prevent this process is by regular brushing and flossing to prevent plaque accumulation. Don’t be a sloppy brusher Simply brushing all round and making bubbles won’t get rid of the plaque. You may be wasting your time, effort and toothpaste with bad technique. Ask your dentist at your next visit to go over proper technique and then make sure you watch your children’s habit also. Make sure to brush at least twice a day, with the most important being at bedtime since that will remove the effect of the plaque on tissue the entire night. Change your toothbrush regularly The toothbrush is the primary weapon in the battle with plaque. They don’t cost much so replace them at least every three months or when you notice their bristles splaying if sooner.
Be careful of what you eat and drink Eating and drinking sugary stuff such as candies, cakes and soda can attract plaque to stick to your teeth. For healthier teeth, try to eat more fruits and vegetables and drink more water than soda. More than sprays and mints Breath sprays and mints simply cover the effect if inadequate brushing. They also do not remove the plaque accumulation so they have no effect on decay and periodontal tissue. Try to spend the three minutes necessary twice a day for good oral hygiene and reap the benefit of a lifetime of function from your teeth.
RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013
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NUTRITION
Kids and Crock-Pot
Cooking Text by Justin and Rebecca Reynolds
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IN SEASON
what’s FRESH?
Valencia Oranges
NUTRITION
Pomegranates Pears Green Peppers Pistachios
Source: Tulare County Farm Bureau
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low-cookers have to be the best invention for the modern mom. They give us the ability to cook a delicious home-cooked meal without multiple messy pans or heating up the house with the oven, and there are hundreds of recipes that can be completed in less than five minutes! After the ingredients are in the slow-cooker, not another thought has to go into dinner – it is prepared!
In the last six months my son, who is now four, has taken an interest in helping me prepare and cook meals in the kitchen. My two-and-a-half-year-old girls can be entertained with “doing the dishes” but my son wants to help add ingredients, stir and create the meals that he sees me place before him and his siblings. My son has learned to carefully level off the measuring cups before distributing the ingredient in the slow-cooker, gets excited to see fresh vegetables transformed in the cooking pot, and will watch the slow cooker cook. The closer we are to dinner time, the hungrier he becomes and the more he watches. He starts to show his excitement as he starts to smell dinner. He knows that soon
he will get to see his food transformed! It’s a magic show of nutritious learning each slowcooker night! So invite your children into the kitchen in the morning or early afternoon when they are in the best mood and let them help you prepare dinner in the crock-pot! Get them acquainted with fresh raw vegetables and show them how many different ways you can cut them, or shred them, or even snap those veggies with your fingers! They will learn to eat the foods you encourage, learn to cook and build their self-esteem as they are praised for their hard work and efforts! Let the crock-pot help you on your kitchen cooking adventures. Simplify the process and enjoy the outcome!
Café Rio Chicken (a HUGE favorite with my 4 year old son-especially when he gets to pour in the Italian dressing!) Ingredients:
Directions:
1 8-ounce bottle zesty Italian dressing (I use a batch of my homemade Italian dressing) 1 tbsp. chili powder 1 tbsp. cumin 3 garlic cloves, minced 5 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
In a small bowl, mix Italian dressing, chili powder, cumin and garlic. Place chicken on bottom of a greased slow-cooker. Pour dressing mixture over the top of the chicken. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours. Remove chicken to a cutting board; use two forks to shred chicken. Reserve juice to pour over chicken when serving. Serve chicken wrapped in tortillas or on top of salad. (We use Whole Wheat tortillas-delicious!)
To get you and the kids motivated to start crockpot cooking together, try these kid-friendly delicious and nutritious chicken recipes from Karen Bellessa Petersen’s 365 Days of Slow-Cooking: No Defrost Chicken (Two-minute prep – and you can use frozen chicken, so no time wasted defrosting!) Ingredients:
6 frozen boneless, skinless chicken breast halves 2 10¾-ounce cans cream of chicken soup 1 4-ounce can sliced mushrooms (the texture of sliced mushrooms is unsettling with my kids, so I dice them up really small so they don’t notice them. I also add some finely chopped carrots or other vegetable I have on hand. Adds to their daily value and they don’t know they are eating it!) ¾ tsp. salt ¼ tsp. pepper ½ C sour cream (or you can substitute with plain Greek yogurt – tastes the same, has less calories and is loaded with protein!) Hot, cooked rice or noodles (my kids prefer brown rice) Directions:
Be sure to enter in the Central Valley Kid’s Cook-Off! Coming in September. www.VisaliaHomeShow/KidsCookOff
Place frozen chicken in slow-cooker. In a medium bowl, mix soup, mushrooms, salt and pepper; pour over chicken. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours. Stir in sour cream; serve over rice or noodles.
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COLLEGE PREP
The Four-Year University Text by Jesus and Adriana Gonzalez, Educational Consultants, ILEAD
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any high school graduates are unaware of the benefits and advantages they can receive from attending a four-year university. The primary benefit is that getting a postsecondary degree can boost their initial earnings by as much as 35 percent. Over their career, that university degree will increase their lifetime earning by more than $1 million, depending on the type of degree earned. Universities are often larger and offer more majors and degree options – bachelors, masters and doctoral degrees. Attending a four year university will challenge a student to a whole new level. The social environment found at a university campus promotes positive energy. The clubs, extra-curricular activities and classes found at universities motivate students to get involved and help them pay more attention to civic duties in government and politics. No matter what a student decides they’ll do after high school, considering the benefits of attending a university should be part of the decision-making process. The bachelor’s degree is intended as a four-year program of study provided a student takes the degree as prescribed by the college or university. A bachelor’s degree completion also depends on a student’s course entry-level status, chosen field of study, and the course credit load taken per semester. Recent studies have shown that most students complete a bachelor’s degree in an average time span of five years; however this time can be shortened with careful course planning. The Bachelors of Arts (BA), and Bachelors of Science (BS) are the two most common degree categories. The BA has a broader scope that emphasizes on the humanities, theoretical and general knowledge in a variety of disciplines. The BS is more of a focused approach with a science base to include a stronger technical background and balance of liberal arts, math and computer oriented skills, and practical skills needed for more specialized career path. The number of credits required depends on the program of study. The bachelors can take roughly 120 and 130 credits to complete, but other programs of study may take more.
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In California, the two public state-wide systems familiar to most families are the California State University (CSU) system with 23 campuses, and the University of California (UC) system with 10 campuses. Selectivity varies amongst these schools, with the UC system being more competitive in their admission selection process requiring personal statements and generally higher grade point averages (GPAs). Also found in California are private colleges and universities such as Stanford or University of Southern California (USC). These are part of the Association of Independent California Colleges & Universities (AICCU). The degrees awarded also range from bachelors, to medical and law degrees. All of these institutions have diverse student bodies ranging from recent high school graduates to graduate students returning for a higher degree mid-career, or students with families returning to school to complete their studies. In the end, preparedness, family circumstances, or cost may be factors that weigh into the decision-making process. Whichever university is chosen, it is important a student is happy with their choice, its offerings, the services provided, and environment. To learn more about colleges and universities of all types and speak to college representatives, consider attending College Night September 10, 2013, 6 - 8:30pm, Visalia Convention Center hosted by TCOE. Visit www.tcoe.org for more information about this event.
HAPPY TRAILS In addition to class volunteers, there are also many service clubs and local community organizations that donate their time to our program. For example, the SequoiaVisalia Kiwanis Club developed and built the Sensory Trail on our property in 2008; members of that club continue to maintain it by pulling weeds, trimming trees, raking and organizing work days at Happy Trails. Additionally, we’ve had volunteers from El Diamante Ag Department who constructed and installed our entrance sign, and groups from the Sunset Rotary, Serve Visalia, and the Mission Oaks Tennis Team volunteering for day projects recently. Happy Trails is also fortunate to partner with local businesses for employee volunteer days. Recently, we had outstanding volunteers from Jo-Ann’s Fabrics, Morgan Stanley, and the Visalia Times-Delta and the Gannet Foundation who joined us for the 2012 Make a Difference Day. Not only do community members support us by volunteering their time, but their generosity continues to amaze us. Happy Trails is completely supported by private donations, in-kind donations, and community support during our two big fundraisers – Night at the Races, which took place on May 31, 2013, and the Round Up BBQ, which will be at our facility on October 4, 2013. On behalf of the Board of Directors, staff, riders and volunteers at Happy Trails Riding Academy, we sincerely thank you, our community, for your continuous support of our program!
Happy Trails Riding Academy Thanks Our Community Text by Happy Trails Riding Academy
H
appy Trails Riding Academy is a 501(c) 3 non-profit program that enriches the lives of children and adults with physical, cognitive and emotional disabilities through equine-facilitated therapy. Therapeutic horsemanship has been proven to provide a unique opportunity for self-improvement and independence in a positive learning environment, while offering a challenging alternative to traditional therapy. Happy Trails has been extremely blessed to have the amazing support of this community. Volunteers truly are the backbone of the Happy Trails program with close to 100 volunteers assisting with therapeutic horsemanship classes each week. Our volunteers come from all over the community and most work full-time, have families and busy home lives, and still donate their time week in and week out. In June 2013, Happy Trails broke its own record with more than 800 volunteer hours logged for the month! For more information on the programs offered at Happy Trails Riding Academy, visit our website at www.WeAreHappyTrails.com.
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HEALTH
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) outlines five important reasons to immunize your child:
Important Reasons to Immunize Your Child Text by Family HealthCare Network
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ou want to do what is best for your children. You know about the importance of car seats, baby gates, and other ways to keep them safe. But, did you know that one of the best ways to protect your children is to make sure they have all of their vaccinations? Last month was Immunization Awareness Month. If you still haven’t taken the step to immunize your child, it is not too late!
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Immunizations can save your child’s life. Because of advances in medical science, your child can be protected against more diseases than ever before. Some diseases that once injured or killed thousands of children have been eliminated completely and others are close to being gone – primarily due to safe and effective vaccines. One example of the great impact vaccines can have is the eradication of polio in the United States. Polio was once America’s most-feared disease causing death and paralysis across the country but today, thanks to vaccination, there are no reports of polio in the United States. Vaccination is safe and effective. Scientists, doctors and healthcare professionals only give vaccines to children after a long and careful review. Vaccines will involve some discomfort and may cause pain, redness or tenderness at the site of injection but this is minimal compared to the pain, discomfort and trauma of the diseases these vaccines prevent. The most comprehensive scientific studies and reviews have not found a link between vaccines and autism. Groups of experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Institute of Medicine (IOM), the National Institute of Health (NIH), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other federal agencies also agree that vaccines are not responsible for the number of children now recognized to have autism. Immunization protects others you care about. Serious vaccine-preventable diseases still occur. Unfortunately, some babies are too young to be completely vaccinated and some people may not be able to receive vaccinations due to allergies, illness, weakened immune systems or other reasons. To help keep these individuals safe, it is important that you and your children who are able to get vaccinated are fully immunized. This not only protects your family, but also helps prevent the spread of these diseases to your friends and loved ones. Immunizations can save your family time and money. A child with a vaccine-preventable disease can be kept out of schools or daycare facilities. A prolonged illness can take a financial toll because of lost time at work, medical bills or long-term disability care. In comparison, getting vaccinated against these diseases is a good investment and usually covered by insurance. The Vaccines for Children program is a federally funded program that provides vaccines at no cost to children who might not otherwise be vaccinated because of inability to pay. To find out more about the VFC program, visit, http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/programs/vfc/ or ask your child’s healthcare provider. Immunization protects future generations. Vaccines have reduced and, in some cases, eliminated many diseases that killed or severely disabled people just a few generations before. For example, smallpox vaccination helped eradicate that disease worldwide. Your children don’t have to get smallpox shots anymore because the disease no longer exists. If we keep vaccinating now, parents in the future may be able to trust that diseases like polio and measles won’t infect, cripple or kill children.
RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013
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ADVENTURE
Parks Family Fun
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s the weather begins to change and we are beginning to transition into fall, now is the perfect time to get the family out of the house, and out to the parks. Breathe in some fresh air while enjoying a great play day out at a couple of our local parks.
Don’t leave the dog at home on this adventure. Head out to Seven Oaks Bark Park, part of Seven Oaks Park located at 900 S. Edison Street (the Bark Park entrance is on Tulare Avenue). Just like Cody Kelly Bark Park in Plaza, this park includes all the same amenities that dogs and owners alike will appreciate. For both parks, dogs must be healthy, sociable and current on all of their vaccinations. Along with the Bark Park, Seven Oaks Park includes beautiful walking paths, a children’s play area, a basketball court, covered picnic tables, plenty of grassy areas to enjoy and the Troy Korsgaden Disc Golf Course. Look into how to play disc golf, it could be a new hobby for the whole family.
RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013
And on the North end of town, Riverway Sports Park, located at 3611 N. Dinuba Blvd., is a great place to take the family for a day of fun and activity. Riverway Sports Park is an 83-acre park, with 10 soccer fields, four baseball field complexes, playgrounds, an interactive water feature, BMX racing track, barbecues, picnic areas, and concessions. It’s no wonder this is a hot spot for sporty and outdoorsy Visalians. There is plenty of room for all sorts of activities. Take your kites on a windy day or take your baseball mitts and play some catch. In addition to these two parks, there are plenty of others around Visalia to get you and your kids outdoors. With school starting up again, taking an afternoon after school or a day on the weekend to be active can be rewarding to both you and your children. For a full list of Visalia parks and amenities and to reserve aspects of your adventure, visit www. ci.visalia.ca.us. To inquire about Mooney Grove Park, which is owned and operated by the County of Tulare, call 733-6291.
Try Your Hand at Our
KIDS CORNER
Monthly Maze
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CALENDAR
september 2013
calendar of events Two Small Pieces of Glass: The Amazing Telescope
dates to remember
SEPTEMBER 6 National Public Lands Day
SEPTEMBER 23
SEPTEMBER
Jesus Gonzalez M.A. Education Educational Consultant jesusilead@gmail.com 559.308.5991 Adriana Gonzalez M.A. Education Educational Consultant adrianailead@gmail.com 559.308.4841
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OCTOBER
Institute for Leadership, Education & Achieving Dreams
A resource for Families in Visalia, Exeter, Tulare and Woodlake!
To advertise your business in Raise call 559.739.1747
CALENDAR
6 Two Small Pieces of Glass: The Amazing Telescope
See how telescopes work and how the largest observatories in the weld use these instruments to explore the mysteries of the universe. When: Sept. 6, 7p Where: Peña Planetarium, 2500 W. Burrel Ave., Visalia Contact: 737-6334
7 Dino Nite
20 Earth, Moon, and Sun
How do the Earth, Moon and Sun work together as a system and what is the myth and science behind it? Why does the Sun rise and set? Why do we see different constellations during different seasons? Learn about the Moon’s phases and orbit. Explore the past and future space travel to our moon and beyond. When: Sept. 20, 7p Where: Peña Planetarium, 2500 W. Burrel Ave., Visalia Contact: 737-6334
28 Annual TriTulare
The Boy Scouts of America Troop 234 is proud to host the TriTulare events and welcomes you for a Saturday morning filled with good times and challenges. The three events of the day are the Sprint Triathlon, 5K Run/walk and the Kids Triathlon. When: Sept. 28, 6:30a Where: Tulare Western High School, 824 W. Maple Ave., Tulare Contact: www.tritulare.org
Hang out with Buddy the Dinosaur from Dinosaur Train, uncover bones in Dino Dig, see 28 National Public Lands Day Sequoia and Kings Canyon are offering a Ross Laird’s Winged Wonders Bird Show, and 21 Hey Kids, Let’s Cook! Watch the area’s youngest master chefs compete free entrance day! That’s right, you’ll be able enjoy arts & crafts tables, dinosaur bio-facts, at the Visalia Home EXPO. The cook-off is to explore the parks with the family without vendor booths and more. Tickets available now. hosted by Kathy Powers. having to pay the entrance fee. Pack a lunch and When: Sept. 7, 5p-9p When: Sept. 21, 11a- 4:30p enjoy the trails and hikes up in the Canyons. Where: Fresno Chaffee Zoo, Where: Visalia Home Expo at the When: Sept. 28 894 W. Belmont Ave., Fresno VisaliaConvention Center, Where: Sequoia and Kings Canyons, Contact: 498-5921 or 303 E. Acequia Ave., Visalia Highway 198 via Three Rivers visit www.fresnochaffeezoo.org Contact: www.heykidsletscook.com Contact: www.nps.gov/seki Tulare County Fair
It’s a family affair! Enjoy food and games, along 27 Family Game Night A night filled with fun as you play board games, with fun houses, rides, music and farm animal put together a few puzzles and take a whack at exhibits. Don’t miss out on the annual fun at playing the Wii all with your family. the Tulare County Fair. When: Sept. 27, 5p-7p When: Sept. 11-15 Where: Tulare Public Library, Where: Tulare County Fairgrounds, 475 N. “M” St., Tulare 215 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Tulare Contact: Call Youth Services at 685-4500 Contact: 686-4707 or visit www.tularefair.org
10 College Night
The Tulare County Office of Education invites hundreds of high school students from throughout Tulare and surrounding counties to meet representatives from over 90 universities and colleges from around the country. College night also features a variety of information seminars, both in English and Spanish, on topics ranging from the application process and financial aid, to foreign exchange opportunities to transferring credits. When: Sept. 10, 6p-8:30p Where: Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia Ave., Visalia Contact: Beth Olshewsky at bolshewsky@ers.tcoe.org or call 651-3042
Vossler Farms Corn Maze
Grab your sneakers and flashlights and go on an adventure through the Vossler Farms Corn Maze. Make your way through the maze and find all the checkpoints. After, stop by the pumpkin patch and pick out a pumpkin for the whole family! Checkout the website for more information on dates and times. When: Sept. 27-29 Where: Vossler Farms, 26773 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia Contact: 1-888-528-1724 or visit www.vosslerfarms.com
Pages with Piper
Independent readers in grades kindergarten through fourth can come and read to Piper, a trained service dog. This will be an opportunity for children to practice reading in a fun, nonthreatening environment. The sessions will be from 10-15 minutes, depending on the amount of children signed up for that day. Parents or guardians are required to sign a release form before their child may participate in the program. When: Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30p Where: Tulare Public Library, 475 N. “M” St., Tulare Contact: Children’s Services, 685-4519 Kid’s Craft Hour
When: Saturdays, 1-2p Where: Tulare Public Library, 475 N. “M” St., Tulare Contact: Children’s Services, 685-4519
Fam i lear ly Fu n & ning Too !
Wed-Fri 10am-4pm / Sat 12pm-4pm
Admission $5 per person / Annual Family Memberships $72
Available for Private Parties!!! 700 E Main St, Visalia • 559 733 5975 visit imagineUmuseum.org for details Virginia Strawser, Executive Director • imagineUmuseum@sbcglobal.net
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SAFETY
Identifying Gang Members Text by Adam Valencia, Tulare County Office of Education
When identifying gang members, it is very important to keep in mind that many young people may appear to be involved because they dress a certain way, when in reality they are not. Gang members may be recognized by the specific way they wear their clothing or by the colors they wear: red, blue, purple, black, orange, yellow or green. More often, gang members can be identified by the aggressive, negative and manipulative behavior and body language they display with the intention of intimidating others. Extreme caution is advised for young people who enjoy the general dress style of gang members. If non-gang members are attending parties where gang members show up, they should leave as soon as possible. By copying the dress style and presenting a casual association, they may become future targets for opposing gang members who hear about the parties and those present. Gang members will draw their own conclusions about others at the parties, possibly viewing them as enemies. Should law enforcement be called for any reason to these gatherings, innocent partygoers will be exposed to unwanted suspicion, questioning and documentation. Avoiding any appearance of being a gang associate is the best remedy and will relieve families of needless worrying, or worse. In several areas of the county, gang members are wearing more mainstream clothing and showing fewer visible tattoos. This approach has been taken to avoid the attention of the authorities. While gang members and members of the general public may share similar clothing styles, it is important for young people who want to avoid confrontations with law enforcement to demonstrate positive attitudes and behaviors in their lives and in the friendships they keep.
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RESOURCES
important numbers at a glance:
City Information • Tulare County website www.co.tulare.ca.us • City of Visalia website www.ci.visalia.ca.us • City of Tulare website www.ci.tulare.ca.us • City of Exeter website www.cityofexeter.com • City of Woodlake website www.cityofwoodlake.com • Visalia Parks & Recreation, (559) 713-4365
Other Important Numbers
Fire & Police
County & City
• Tulare County Fire Department, (559) 747-8233 • Visalia Fire Department, (559) 713-4266 • Tulare Fire Department, (559) 684-4300 • Exeter Fire Department, (559) 592-3714 • Woodlake Fire Department, (559) 564-2181 • Tulare County Sheriff’s Department, (559) 636-4625; (559) 733-6218 • Visalia Police Department (Non-Emergency), (559) 734-8116 • Visalia Police Department, Gang Suppression and Narcotics Unit, (anonymous tip hotline) (559) 713-4737 • Tulare County - End Gang Hotline, (888) 363-4264 • Tulare Police Department, (559) 684-4238; (559) 686-3454 • Exeter Police Department, (559) 592-3103 • Woodlake Police Department, (559) 564-3325 • Kings & Tulare County California Highway Patrol, (559) 441-5400
• Tulare County Services - United Way, Dial 2-1-1; www.211ca.org • Delta Vector Control District, (559) 732-8606; www.deltavcd.com • Tulare & Kings Counties Suicide Prevention Task Force (Non-crisis), (559) 624-7471; www.sptf.org • Child Abuse Prevention Council, (559) 735-0456; www.tularecountycapc.org • Child Abuse 24-hr Hotline, (800) 331-1585 • Domestic Violence/Shelters, (559) 732-5941, (559) 685-9515; www.fstc.net • Sexual Assault 24-hr Confidential Hotline, (559) 732-7273; www.fstc.net • Alcohol/Drug Programs, (559) 733-6123 • Parenting Network, (559) 625-0384; www.parentingnetwork.org • Tulare-Kings Right To Life, (559) 732-5000; www.tkrl.org • The IRMA Network, (559) 732-5000; www.theirmanetwork.org • Latinos4Life, (559) 732-5000; www.latinos4life.org • 5ive5ive9ine (Teen Health), 559teensmatter.org • Tulare County Animal Control, (559) 636-4050 • Visalia Animal Control, (559) 713-4957
Medical • Family HealthCare Network, (877) 960-3426; www.fhcn.org • Kaweah Delta Medical Center, (559) 624-2000 Emergency Room, (559) 624-2213 • Visalia Walk-In Medical Clinic, (559) 627-5555 • Tulare Regional Medical Center, (559) 688-0821 • Tulare County Health and Human Services Agency, (559) 624-8000 • Children’s Hospital Central California, (559) 353-3000 • Dignity Health, Mercy & Memorial Hospitals, Lauren Small Children's Medical Center (661) 327-4647 • Sierra View District Hospital, (559) 784-1110
Education • Tulare County Library, (559) 713-2700; www.tularecountylibrary.org • Tulare County Office of Education, (559) 733-6300; www.tcoe.org • Visalia Unified School District, (559) 730-7300; www.vusd.org • Tulare City School District, (559) 685-7200; www.tcsdk8.org • Exeter Union School District, (559) 592-9421; www.exeter.k12.ca.us • Woodlake Public Schools, (559) 564-8081; www.woodlakepublicschools.org
Add your numbers below
Nationwide • American Association of Poison Control Centers, (800) 222-1222; www.aapcc.org • Center for Disease Control and Prevention, (800) 232-4636; www.cdc.gov • California Poison Control, (800) 222-1222; www.calpoison.org • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, (800) 273-8255; www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org • The Trevor Project (LGBTQ), (866) 488-7386; www.thetrevorproject.com • Missing Child Hotline, (800) 843-5678 • Road Conditions, (800) 427-7623
REMEMBER, WHEN IN DOUBT, DIAL
9-1-1
Add your numbers below
RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013
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RAISE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2013