Sacramento Parent September 2018

parent September 2018

CONNECTING FAMILIES FOR 26 YEARS

GET MOVING AFTER SCHOOL

FINANCIAL HACKS FOR YOUR HOUSEHOLD BUDGET

Are They Ready To Stay Home Alone? sacramentoparent.com

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SEPTEMBER 2018 sacramentoparent.com

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sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2018

3

parent

on our cover

September 2018

Meet Kayden, a 10 year-old who’s ALL BOY! After school he enjoys playing football and baseball. This busy guy works hard both in school and on the field.

Photographer: Megan Escheman Photography http://MeganEschemanPhotography.com

contents SEPTEMBER 2018

13 departments

8 FUN FINDS

Babies & Bumps Giveaways

10 SAFETY 101

Are They Ready to Be Home Alone?

25 NEXT DOOR

Local Student Medals in International Competition

29 LET’S GO

27

29

features

around town

13 15 17

30 CALENDAR

Benefits of Team Sports School Sports Physicals

Parents: A Big Resource in Education

21

Financial Hacks for Household Budgets

27

Fall Into Family Fun

29 A Field Trip They’ll Love 32 ON STAGE & ON DISPLAY 34 Giant Pumpkins Are Coming!

Why Your Child Should Swim All Year

The Circus is in Town!

online exclusives this month Your Guide to After School Activities Tips for Teaching Kids About Money Hit the Reset Button on Your Kids’ Nutrition A Back-to-School Immune System Makeover Activities for Children with Special Needs

4

SEPTEMBER 2018 sacramentoparent.com

ScholarShare Children’s Book Festival

September 29 & 30 • 10 AM - 4 PM Author & Illustrator Presentations Storytelling Performances Hands-on Literacy Activities & more!

Featuring Steve Antony, author of the Mr. Panda series!

FREE!

Authors & Illustr ators

Steve Antony Kimberly A. Gord on Biddle Linda Champion Deb Gruelle Sarah Kesty Orlando Molina Lori Mortensen Rae Rankin Joanna Rowland Brian Wallace Linda Whalen

Thank you to our sponsors

Sacramento Parent Magazine

Adults must be accompanied by children, and children must be accompanied by adults.

3901 Land Park Drive, Sacramento · fairytaletown.org · (916) 808-7462 sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2018

5

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SEPTEMBER 2018 sacramentoparent.com

Welcome to what might possibly be one of the busiest months of the year for kids and parents alike. Not only are children settling into the school year and diving in to projects, homework and joining clubs; but after the bell rings many are heading off to soccer practice, cross country, football practice, band, volleyball, dance class... the list goes on and on. co-publisher | SUE LETO COLE co-publisher | SHELLY BOKMAN editor | SHANNON SMITH art directors | PATRICE VAN DAM

StudioPRDesign.com

JILL LENDAHL, JillLendahl.com contributing writers: Lynn Ball | Rob Baquera | Michelle Kopkash Candace Lai | Sarah Lyons Shannon Smith | Kaleb Wallen contributing photographer: Megan Escheman Photography http://MeganEschemanPhotography.com

advertising executives: LINDSAY TRENZ | (530) 889.6178 lindsay@sacramentoparent.com CHERYL WAPLES | (530) 889.6176 cheryl@sacramentoparent.com

BILLING QUESTIONS

Shelly Bokman | (530) 889.6175 shelly@sacramentoparent.com CALENDAR & WEBSITE calendar@sacramentoparent.com EVENTS events@sacramentoparent.com

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This month, we’ve got some tips and ideas to remind us— the parents, taxi drivers and check writers—why we do all that we do. From budgeting hacks to how kids benefit from team sports, there are many validating and insightful articles inside from parents like you.

If you are seeking activities that might be a good fit for your child, you’ll find many local options inside this issue. I am that “soccer mom” (minivan and all) and seeing all the benefits and joy it brings them is worth every second I spend dropping off, picking up and trying to figure out how I can squeeze in a home cooked dinner.

If you are looking to get out and have some fun, there are some great seasonal spotlights happening around town in this issue, too!

Warmly,

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twitter.com/ SacParentMag

Shannon & the sac parent team

FAMILY PUBLISHING, INC. Sacramento Parent Magazine Subscription Rate: one year, $30 PO Box 598 Auburn, CA 95604 p (530) 888.0573 f (530) 653.2283 sacparenteditor@gmail.com | www.sacramentoparent.com

Sacramento Parent magazine is published monthly by Family Publishing, Inc. It is available free of charge at over 1,000 locations throughout Greater Sacramento.

Sacramento Parent magazine welcomes letters, articles, artwork and photos from our readers. Sacramento Parent is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permission.

Opinions expressed by contributors or advertisers are not necessarily the opinions of this publication.

sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2018

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fun finds

Win It at Babies & Bumps!

By Shannon Smith

That’s right, we’ll be bringing this free, family event to Folsom in November. We’ve heard many say that the event itself, is a gift. But to make it even sweeter, when you walk in to Babies and Bumps, you’ll get a few free raffle tickets. Simply, visit the prize table and use your tickets to enter! Winners will leave the event with some of these freebies and much more! Save the date and we can’t wait to see you on November 10th!

WIN IT!

Beanstalk Jack The story of “Jack and the Beanstalk” with the addition of a refreshing girl-meets-boy twist. Jack, our intrepid hero, armed with his six-string guitar, climbs the beanstalk to seek his fortune. At the summit of the towering vegetation, Jack meets the giant’s daughter, Harmony. www.BeanstalkJack.com

BinxyBaby Shopping Cart Hammock A patented design that quickly and easily clips onto most carts, the seat hangs elevated so you have plenty of room underneath for groceries, then it rolls up to fit in your purse or diaper bag when finished. www.BinxyBaby.com

BubbleBum's New International Collection This portable, lightweight, inflatable booster seat for kids aged between 4 to 11 years-old. It easily deflates and folds flat so that kids or moms can carry it in backpacks or handbags, making it perfect for holidays, rental cars, school trips or carpooling. www.BubbleBum.co/us

Cozy Bump Back pain and discomfort is common during pregnancy as you approach the third trimester. The Cozy Bump can provide relief! It’s a pregnancy body pillow with a hole in the middle to safely cradle baby bumps so moms-to-be can sleep on their stomachs. It has two separate air chambers that can be adjusted to accommodate growing bellies and it’s easy to pack so you can take it along on your babymoon! www.CozyBump.com

DockATot in La Vie En Rose The original, game-changing baby lounger and co-sleeper from Sweden. DockATot is a multi-functional, innovative and super-stylish must-have for parents with little ones ages 0 to 36 months. www.DockATot.com

Feltman Brothers Knit Cardigan and Bloomer Set Timeless, classic, hand-embroidered to keep baby warm and stylish! Exquisitely sewn heirloom-quality baby wear; dressing generations of babies since 1916. www.FeltmanBrothers.com 8

SEPTEMBER 2018 sacramentoparent.com

fun finds

Finn + Emma Dream World Rattle Buddy Hand-knit using using G.O.T.S. certified organic cotton yarn with a phthalate-free rattle inside.

Perfect for your little one to snuggle with at bedtime or carry as a companion for exploring the great big world around them. www.FinnAndEmma.com

Galaxy Wall Hanging by Lorena Canals The Galaxy wall hanging follows the trajectory of the space theme, and is ideal for the walls of children's rooms. Hanging from five cotton cords, joined to a plastic pole covered in cotton thread, are small cushions (a star, Mars, Saturn, a rocket) and several balls and tassels. www.LorenaCanals.us

Just Dance Twinkle has always danced to the beat of her own drum, described as “like Lady Gaga for kids,” with a super pop sound mixed with a touch of Broadway belt, hip hop and plenty of EDM glam, www.TwinkleAndFriends.com

Laurie Berkner: The Dance Remixes The band’s most beloved songs for kids with a modern-day twist as they have been remixed into electronic dance songs that all ages will adore. www.LaurieBerkner.com

Lullapop Lullabies A playlist of enchantingly “lullafied” instrumental versions of current chart-toppers made famous by the likes of Justin Bieber, Ed Sheeran, Adele, Sia, Justin Timberlake, Bruno Mars, Rihanna, Drake, and more. www.fanlink.to/lullapoplullabies

Mundo Verde/Green World Performing an eclectic range of styles, from bomba and samba to reggae and bossa nova.

The songs breathe life into the global environmental message from various angles that are relevant to children and adults. www.MisterGsongs.com

Of course we wouldn’t celebrate our 10th Anniversary Babies and Bumps without making it extra special by giving away something AMAZING! If you love Pottery Barn Kids, you are going are not going to want to miss this year’s event. Stay tuned for the official announcement, we can’t wait to deliver the news!

T LEARN MORE UAMPS.net B D N A S WWW.BABIE

Bonus! Come early and you will get a reusable, eco-friendly, cotton tote bag stuffed with goodies, coupons and special offers while supplies last thanks to UC Davis Children’s Hospital. sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2018

9

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IS YOUR CHILD READY TO STAY HOME ALONE?

By Rob Baquera, Public Information Officer Roseville Police Department School is in full swing and kids are starting up their after school activities and sports. Some parents may be considering whether or not their child is ready to be left home alone after school. It is first important to determine if you feel your child can follow directions and solve problems on his/ her own. Having a trial period with your child where you are away for a short time and a short distance from home may also help your child feel more comfortable being home alone.

If you have determined your child is ready to be left home alone, it’s a good idea to have some basic security procedures in place and have a list of house rules posted in an easily accessible place. It would also be helpful for your child to know:

• Who to call in an emergency and have a list of emergency numbers to call.

• What to do if someone comes to the door.

• What to do when injured.

• What are the rules for playing outside. (How far can they go from home?

How long can be they gone? etc.)

• What appliances can be used (stove, microwave, computer, etc.) and how to do so safely.

• Which friends are allowed in the home.

This would also be a good time to inspect your home thoroughly for any safety risks.

Make sure that all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are all functioning properly. Ensure that dangerous items such as guns, knives, razor blades, scissors and other objects that can cause injury are removed or safely stored. Make sure medicine is kept in a locked storage place or out of reach.

Giving your child more independence is difficult, but it is a part of growing up. By preparing your child first, you can help ensure he or she will have a safe and successful experience. Additionally, you will feel more secure that he or she is ready to be left home alone.

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5 BeneFIts of Team Sports

By Sarah Lyons

If you are considering signing your child up for a team sport, but have reservations about the investment of your time and money, consider the benefits it can have for your child. Team sports provide the opportunity for your child to get some exercise and also provides the opportunity for social interaction and growth in their self confidence.

ENCOURAGES CONFIDENCE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL “Our middle daughter really struggles academically, but excels in sports.” says Stefanie Eubanks, mother of three, “Sports give her such confidence and they really help her self esteem tremendously!” Kids can feel like their lives revolve around school and people they interact while there. Playing community sports gives them the opportunity to meet people outside of their immediate social circle and gives them confidence to develop friendships in new situations.

BECOME PART OF A TEAM Working together for a common goal and achieving it helps build a strong

bond between teammates. “Team sports help kids identify their place on the team even if they aren’t the star player. It also teaches compassion and empathy when teammates make mistakes,” says mother, Kara Thomas. Kids who are part of a sports team learn to cheer each other on and feel the same support from their teammates during the game. They will also learn sportsmanship, compassion when someone gets hurt, and how get along with teammates (even if they don’t always like each other). The ability to work as a team is a skill that they will use throughout life in school, at work, and even in a family unit.

PRAISE FROM COACHES AND OTHER PLAYERS Everyone likes to hear praise for their efforts and hardwork. Receiving praise from coaches and other players as they make improvements is much different than a pat on the back from mom or dad. Kids who play sports have the opportunity to set goals and celebrate as they meet these goals both individually and as a team.

APPRECIATION OF DIVERSITY Team sports draw children from all religions, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Working towards a common goal, unifies the group and differences that may otherwise separate us become less important as the team works together.

CHARACTER BUILDING You can’t always be the winner in team sports. Kids learn to lose, to have good sportsmanship and they learn how to be empathetic when your teammates make mistakes. Jim Carrier, soccer coach and father of two says, “I wanted them to learn to win graciously, to lose without losing, learn how to work together, support their teammates, have a good work ethic and experience the joy of victory, gain confidence, and leadership skills. And most importantly, find a place they belong.” Kids in all levels of sports, competitive or recreational, have the opportunity to gain priceless benefits that will last a lifetime.

Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer and stay at home mom to her six children, including four-year-old triplets. sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2018 13

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14 SEPTEMBER 2018 sacramentoparent.com

SPORTS PHYSICALS—AN IMPORTANT STEP SO THEY CAN PLAY THEIR BEST

By Candace Lai

IMMUNIZATIONS

During the development years, children’s bodies grow rapidly, so it is important that they get checked out by a medical professional to ensure it’s safe to participate in sports and start a new season.

Although immunization dates do not have to be recorded on a typical pre-participation form in California, many practitioners administering sports physicals will use the exam as an opportunity to verify that your athlete is up to date on their vaccines. So be sure to bring your child’s immunization record to the exam.

In addition to making sure your child meets the legal and administrative requirements of their school or league, sports physicals—or pre-participation physicals as they are often called—assist with the detection of conditions that may be life threatening or disabling or that may predispose an athlete to injury.

That’s why all California schools, both public and private, require student athletes to obtain a sports physical prior to playing interscholastic sports or other strenuous physical activity such as cheerleading or dance. It’s also why community recreation leagues typically mandate that children receive a pre-participation exam.

EXAM The exam typically begins with recording the child’s height and weight, checking their vital signs (pulse rate, temperature, respiration rate and blood pressure) and completing a basic eye exam.

Photo courtesy of The Allergy Staion, Roseville

Medical professionals able to administer sports physicals include California licensed physicians, and nurse practitioners and physician assistants working under the direct or indirect supervision of a licensed physician. The exams can be obtained from your pediatrician, family care provider or at a retail clinic like MinuteClinic, located inside select CVS Pharmacy stores.

MEDICAL HISTORY In advance of a sports physical, parents or guardians should complete the medical history form issued by their child’s school system or sports league and provide it to the medical professional conducting the sports physical.

Typically, it begins with questions about any prescription medications your child is taking and any allergies that affect them including reactions to medicines, pollens, foods and stinging insects.

A full physical assessment follows as the provider checks the eyes, ears, nose and throat; lymph nodes; heart; lungs; abdomen; skin and other parts of the body.

Next come questions about heart health, bone and joint health, chronic conditions they may have like asthma or diabetes, prior surgeries and any past injuries such as concussions or broken bones.

A musculoskeletal review comes next checking for reflexes and function in the neck, back, wrists, hips/thighs, knees, legs, ankles and feet.

If your child has a history of any type of heart problem, documentation from a primary care provider or treating physician will be required. It should state that the condition has been evaluated and does not prevent participation in sports.

Upon completion of the exam, the provider will sign or stamp the exam form and indicate whether your child is cleared to play. There are several options they can choose: cleared for all sports without restriction; cleared without restriction but recommending further evaluation and treatment; not cleared for certain sports; not cleared for all sports; or requiring further evaluation before clearance can be provided.

Also addressed in the sports physical medical history are any past illnesses and conditions such as mononucleosis, MRSA skin infections, hernias, sickle cell anemia and eating disorders.

For female adolescents, information about their menstrual cycle will be recorded on the evaluation form.

Eyesight is another key area, including whether glasses, contacts or protective eyewear are needed to participate in physical activities.

CLEARANCE TO PLAY

A pre-participation exam should not replace an annual wellness physical. For this reason, health insurance companies are not likely to cover sports physicals.

So be sure to ask your provider about the exam cost in advance and consider your options if budget is a concern.

Candace Lai is a nurse practitioner who lives in Sacramento and works at MinuteClinic locations inside CVS Pharmacy stores in Sacramento and Fair Oaks. sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2018 15

Whispering Oak Montessori Academy

Fostering Growth Nurturing Peace Inspiring Curiosity

Are you searching for something more than just an early learning center or for a better education for your children?

Whispering Oak Montessori Academy offers a rich, nurturing and stimulating environment firmly grounded in the Montessori Method and designed to lay the foundation for a life long love of learning.

Students are encouraged to grow to their full potential in a program designed to educate the whole child.

Call us for a tour and more information!

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WWW.GBMONTESSORI.COM 16 SEPTEMBER 2018 sacramentoparent.com

Parents: The Most Underutilized Resource in Education

By Lynn Ball I’m often afforded the opportunity to provide training and professional development to teachers—and I really enjoy those opportunities—however, there is a powerful education-ally that is often overlooked and undervalued: Parents. Teachers spend a great deal of time with their students; but parents spend much more time with their children and they can greatly influence their children's educational outcomes, especially in math (and even before their children start school). How can educators and families work together?

Mindset and Messaging Negative messages about math can be passed down from adults to kids.

According to J. Michael Shaughnessy, Former NCTM President, “The ‘bad at math’ self-concept...gets passed from one generation to the next like a flu virus, and it infects the attitudes of future generations.” (Shaughnessy, nctm.org) These messages then limit student, adult and teacher expectations and outcomes.

Informing parent groups that these messages are harmful can be a great weapon in aiding all of our students. Helping families see the value of a growth mindset will help both students, parents and teachers see the potential that mistakes and different thinking can have and how both can lead to dramatic learning increases.

Number Conversations Have conversations about math. Have conversations that involve numbers or mathematical thinking everyday. Discussing math can begin with nightly homework. Instead of working towards a correct answer and moving on, we can ask our children questions about the math they’re working on and the thinking they’ve used to solve the problems.

Additionally, parents can ask their kids simple computation problems like 3+9, 18x5, or 35-19. Each of these problems lend themself to having a conversation because there are multiple paths to a solution. Go beyond just asking for an answer. Ask your children to justify or prove their answer. If you have children

of different ages, ask them the same question, starting with the youngest.

Older children have to solve the problem in a different way. How many different ways can you solve these problems?

Real Life Math You can avoid using the Pythagorean theorem in your daily life if you so wish, but you cannot avoid math. We all use mathematics and, more importantly, mathematical thinking everyday. When we cook, go to the grocery store, shop, or budget we’re using mathematics and mathematical thinking. If parents share these thoughts with their children, they can help them build a sense of and confidence with numbers. Math is everywhere. Let’s use it to our advantage. Most of real life math is estimating, yet teachers struggle to teach it, and students struggle to grasp it. Most of the time an exact answer is not required, but a close estimate will do the trick.

When you’re near the fruits and vegetables, ask your child how many bananas do you think are in the display?

If your grocery store still has scales, ask your children: what weighs more: 3 Fuji apples or 1 pineapple and find the difference.

When you’re at the checkout stand, have children tell you the denominations you would need to meet the cost using the fewest pieces of money or estimate how much change you will get in return.

When you’re in the parking lot ask questions like: How many blue cars? How many more white cars than red?

Play Games Games like Yahtzee or War are simple and practice basic mathematics, but playing games is much deeper than that.

Playing games sends a message to your children and family members that math Parents continued on page 19 sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2018 17

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Parents continued from page 17

is important. If you search the internet for math games to play at home, you'll find an endless supply of games that are fun and rewarding at the same time.

Homework As a parent, teacher, and consultant, I see homework from three unique perspectives. We have all heard horror stories of homework battles at the dinner table, but I also see how my daughter’s homework helps give me a glimpse into some of what she is working on in class. To help avoid some of the struggle I hear about, I ask parents to try thinking of their child or children as the homework expert.

It may sound odd, but this really helps the child build confidence and understanding. If your child is the expert, you can ask questions about the homework, different answers, or how your child thought about the problems.

If your child is heading down the wrong path, asking questions can help his or her see errors and it won’t feel like you are correcting mistakes for your child.

Simple, open-ended questions about mathematics are wonderful for children of all ages. Asking open ended questions such as, “How do you know?” or “Can you prove it?” force children to make sense and think more deeply about the mathematics. If your children are working problems that you haven’t seen before, or it’s been a long time, you could ask how he/she might teach it to you or to another classmate.

Math is truly all around us, all of the time. The more often we talk about math and mathematical thinking to our children, of all ages, the more likely they will become mathematical thinkers. So, what question will you ask your child today?

Lynn Ball is a parent, teacher and consultant based in Northern California. His facebook page, Mathematical Number Talks (www.facebook.com/numbertalksconsultant) provides professional development, research, and tools for students, parents, and educators.

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20 SEPTEMBER 2018 sacramentoparent.com

Financial Hacks to Help Manage Your Household Budget and Savings

By Michelle Kopkash According to a recent analysis done by Experian, a leading credit reporting services agency, the average monthly household credit card debt in the United States is approximately $6,354. Mortgages, student loan debt and car loans make up a large majority of this debt, with food expenses and other transportation costs taking up another large chunk of change each month. Couple that with the sad news that many of us are approaching our peak earning years—for men, this is said to be between 45 to 54 years of age and for women, between the ages of 35 to 44, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics—and we realize that one of our most important jobs is to manage the household budget so that we can safeguard our family’s future and decide where our money is best spent.

And while we shouldn’t base our family’s true worth on money—I agree with Bob Marley, who said, “Money is numbers and numbers never end. If it takes money to be happy, your search for happiness will never end”—it is true that financial stress can be a hardship in life and prevent important aspects of care, such as being able to afford medical and dental insurance. It also causes strife between couples. No doubt, it is an added stress that no family wants.

What can be done to better manage household expenses, savings and income? Below are a few general tips that have been found to help other local parents in the Sacramento area.

Review your monthly budget every month

Use cash when you can

Things change, so you’ll need to reset the budget every month, adjusting the numbers for bigger spending months such as the holidays and birthday months and finding ways to save more than average during low spending months.

Dave Ramsey, founder of Ramsey Solutions and Financial Peace University, coaches people around the world on the topics of debt reduction planning and financial management. He recommends using a cash system for expenses to reduce and eliminate debt. Using cash only makes the spender more aware of each dollar spent.

Use a budget app and personal finance tool to track your expenses Budget apps give users a daily view of their financial status.

Intuit’s Mint app and the You Need a Budget (YNAB) app have been listed as a couple of favorites from local moms, but there are many other good choices depending on your needs. These apps can help you set a budget, track up-to-the-minute expenditures, pay bills, track income and categorize transactions.

Reduce expenditures in these 3 areas As mentioned above, mortgages, car loans and food expenses top the list as some of our biggest monthly expenditures. Auto payments and mortgage payments also have a huge impact on your credit scores. Finding ways to reduce the amount you spend each month in these three categories will greatly benefit you, such as having a paid off auto loan. To reduce the amount you spend on groceries, take advantage of discounts that are offered on items you frequently buy using Amazon's Subscribe & Save program. Pinterest offers free meal planning ideas that are budget conscious and sites like $5 Meal Plan will send you low cost meal plans for the family depending upon your specific dietary needs.

Don’t forget your debt Factor debt into your monthly budget and pay those down consistently.

Regularly compare service providers to reduce bills At least one time a year, compare the rates of your current service providers to others to find out if you’re still working with the best rate for the services you receive. You might find ways to reduce payments with your current providers by talking to managers as well.

Cut cable Yes, this sounds terrible. We did it and it definitely was an adjustment, but we’re saving a lot of money each month by sticking to streaming TV, Netflix and Amazon Prime.

Budget continued on page 23

sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2018 21

22 SEPTEMBER 2018 sacramentoparent.com

Budget continued from page 21

Save for retirement

Start saving for college now

Forbes.com recommends allotting 15% of your monthly income into retirement funds. People are living longer and meanwhile, living expenses continue to rise. It takes a lifetime to save for retirement, so forgo the luxuries and save for your future.

529 plans need to be started when a baby is born. In the blink of an eye, your children will be in elementary school, then middle school and then finishing up high school. Talk to a financial adviser about other college savings plans that might help to diversify your portfolio.

Build your emergency cash fund The next time you get a bonus, use that to create an emergency cash stash. Also, allot a certain amount of money to go into this fund every month until you reach $10,000. I’ve heard some experts say $15,000 is a safer bet. This is a critical aspect of your long term financial health. When your air conditioner breaks or your car needs new tires, you’ll have the money to pay upfront, rather than adding more debt to your credit card. This also helps to secure your bank account if anyone in your family has a medical or dental emergency.

Other life hacks Dine in, make coffee at home, take advantage of awesome happy hour menus and buy furniture and toys secondhand from safe online sites instead of buying them new. And last, try not to get too stressed out about your finances.

At the end of the day, the less you owe, the more freedom you’ll feel. Things don’t make a home anyway; love makes a home.

Michelle Kopkash is a local freelance writer. She’s got two spunky kids and loves being in nature with her family. Visit her website at www.michellekopkash.com to view her writing portfolio, services and blog.

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next door

Local Student Takes Bronze Medal in International Geography Bee

dates & times

Find more information at

rosevilletheatreartsacademy.com

241 Vernon Street Roseville, CA 95678

(916) 772-2777

Box Office hours Tues-Fri, 12-4pm

Pranavkrishna Bharanidharan, 10, is back in Fair Oaks with a bronze medal after traveling to Berlin, Germany to compete in the International Geography Bee. Pranav, a fourth grader at California Montessori Project Orangevale Campus, competed earlier this year in the National Geographic Bee state competition in Fresno.

Pranav then qualified to compete in Berlin after performing admirably in a regional competition held in Chicago.

SACRAMENTO THEATRE COMPANY

SCHOOL OF THE ARTS

“I’m pretty proud of my performance,” he said. “It was a great competition. I met a lot of awesome people from around the world.”

His dad, Bharanidharan Veeraraghavan, accompanied Pranav and was clearly proud of him. “He did very well in the buzzer based quiz while competing against middle school students,” his dad said. The pyramidal toss-up buzzer style competition doesn't only cover physical and political geography, but also on economic and cultural geography. The competition took place from July 11-18 and brought together over 100 of the world’s top geography students.

His mom, Mythirayee Krishnan said, “Pranav worked very hard leading up to the competition, he studied for six hours every day and we are extremely happy that all his hard work yielded positive results.” When he is not poring over maps and geography study guides, Pranav plays Chess and is also a Junior Black Belt in Martial Arts. As Pranav begins the school year as a fifth grader, he hopes to do well in the upcoming National Geography Bee competition.

Congratulations Pranav...Sacramento Parent is cheering you on!

Auditions for

MARY POPPINS JR. Starting September 18th Call today for an audition time!

www.sactheatre.org

916-446-7501, ext. 116 education@sactheatre.org sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2018 25

Top 3 Reasons to Enroll in Year-Round Swim Lessons

By Kaleb Wallen the water. Living in California, contact with lakes, ponds, pools, and hot tubs are unavoidable, not just in the summer months but throughout the entire year. Taking lessons year-round provides a more consistent routine and offers greater success in knowing how to react and save yourself in a water emergency.

Achieve Developmental, Physical, and Social Benefits

It’s that time of year again, when children are saying goodbye to their summer swim instructors and friends and looking ahead to the new school year and other back to school activities. Many parents view swimming as strictly a summer activity, yet when the following summer rolls around they are stunned to see their child’s skills have regressed and their abilities are not what they were the previous summer; they may no longer even be considered water safe.

This is all too common, but many local swim schools offer year-round swimming in order to prevent this regression of skills and help students fully maximize the developmental,

physical, and social benefits swimming has to offer. Here are some of the top reasons you should consider swimming all year-round!

Develop and Retain Water Safety and Awareness Skills Sadly, drowning is the number one cause of death in children ages 1 to 4. However, it is 100% preventable. Swimming is one of the only sports, if not the only sport, a child learns that can literally save their life.

Teaching your child to swim gives them essential water safety and water awareness skills that last a lifetime.

Students with more consistent attendance and skill repetition retain more skills and gain greater confidence in

26 SEPTEMBER 2018 sacramentoparent.com

When a child participates in swimming lessons at an early age, these experiences help with many other transitions that take place as the child gets older. Learning water safety advances children’s cognitive, social, and physical development. When infants learn to swim, they are absorbing the sight, feel, and sound of the water. While swimming will help to develop their muscles and joints, it also improves the strength of their heart and lungs, and helps to develop their brain.

As babies grow into young children, they bring these experiences and abilities with them. Swimming lessons are an investment in your child’s future and provide skills that will last a lifetime.

Swimming is a Fun, Healthy Activity Swimming is fun and healthy!

Not only can swimming lessons save lives, but they also lay the foundation for

continued swimming success.

Swimming is a great activity as well as low impact exercise that people can do as they grow older.

Swimming offers quality family bonding time. We are always looking for more ways to spend time with our kids; it is an unfortunate effect of being so busy. Time in the pool is one of the few times when your child has your undivided attention for the duration, so make the most of it!

Swimming is not only a fun activity but a life skill that everyone should practice routinely. If you’re kiddo loves the water, keep them swimming after school. There are many options in the area with indoor or heated pools for kids to participate in classes 1 or 2 day(s) per week throughout the year, especially during the fall and winter months when most outdoor pools are too cold. This allows students to develop and retain water safety and water awareness skills, and continue to progress.

For over 40 years, Steve Wallen Swim School has been teaching swim lessons to infants, kids, and adults of all skill levels. Our state-of-the-art indoor facilities are equipped with oversized heated pools offering an ideal atmosphere to foster the greatest potential of any swimmer. As Steve Wallen always says, “You can never be too good at swimming!” For more information, please visit our website at www.wallenswim.com.

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Experience B Street Theatre and Sutter’s Fort in One Field Trip Many of your kids have probably gone on the California Trilogy Tour field trip to experience the California Museum, State Capitol and Esquire IMAX theatre. Coming this fall, there’s another great partnership for teachers looking to visit two of Sacramento’s top attractions in a single day.

Earlier this year, B Street Theatre moved one block away from Sutter’s Fort. Now, as neighbors in Midtown’s thriving Sutter District, the two organizations—that both seek to provide excellence in educational opportunities for students—have been brainstorming potential opportunities designed to help expand their respective missions.

The B Street Theatre and Friends of Sutter’s Fort and California State Parks are proud to announce an exciting and new collaborative offering to teachers. Designed for school groups interested in watching an engaging and entertaining B Street Theatre production plus visiting the interactive and fun Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park, the joint field trip will be available on Wednesdays starting this fall.

This new collaboration will coincide with the debut of B Street Theatre’s fall production of “Treasure Island”. After the performance, Sutter’s Fort will then provide an opportunity for classrooms to enhance their B Street experience by participating in a custom program that will build upon themes from “Treasure Island” that are relevant to the Fort’s history, including treasures, navigation and sailing.

Sutter’s Fort and B Street Theatre have been serving educational needs of school children near and far for quite some time. In fact, Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park serves as a popular field trip to more than 50,000 students each year and has been doing so for more than 40 years. Also, generations of 4th grade students (to the tune of approximately 80,000 in number over the years) have participated in the memorable and immersive overnight Environmental Living Program. And, since 2001, B Street Theatre has offered field trip opportunities through its Family Series, adapting classic novels and historical events for the stage. B Street Family Series has performed for approximately 171,409 grade school kids and has created over 30 original theatrical adaptations for children. In its 32nd year, the B Street School Tour travels to approximately 170 schools a year, performing three different shows, each a collection of short plays, for over 50,000 school kids a year. The school tour’s main event is the annual Fantasy Festival, which features plays written by students, developed by the B Street artistic staff and performed by professional actors.

We’re excited to see these two organizations partner to offer another enriching field trip option for students throughout Greater Sacramento.

For more general information about B Street Theatre, please visit http://BStreetTheatre.org, and for more information about Sutter’s Fort or Friends of Sutter’s Fort, please visit http://SuttersFort.org.

sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2018 29

saturday

Sometimes plans change, don’t forget to check the event’s website before you go!

monday

sunday

1

2

3

Science Saturday

Kids & Company Gallery Tour

10am at Granite Bay Library

10:30am at Crocker Art Museum

A special science activity for children and their families. http://Placer.CA.Gov/Library

Lincoln Kiwanis Annual Kids Fishing Derby

An engaging museum tour meant to introduce children to the world of art.

(Ages 5+) http://CrockerArt.org

8

7am at Ride to Walk, Lincoln

Children in Lincoln and Sheridan are invited to attend this free event that includes breakfast, lunch and catchand-release fishing. www.LincolnKiwanis.org

9 Fair Sweet September! Awaken Electricity 10am at Powerhouse State Historic Park Patriot Day Self-Guided Museum Tour Explore the science of electricity with 11am at Quarry Park your inner bookworm with 10am at Aerospace Museum of California hands-on activities and tours.

Honor those who serve our commuWith over 50 historic airplanes on several events that celebrate http://HistoricFolsom.org nity and country, see K-9 and rescue display (many of which your kids can demonstrations and more. reading and be sure to get out 15 climb aboard) this is worth the drive. http://RocklinPatriotDay.com http://AerospaceCA.org and enjoy the incoming fall Hot Chili and Cool Cars Sacramento Donut Festival at Rocklin Road & Quarry Park 10 12pm at California Automobile Museum season with plenty of oppor- 10am Attend one of the most tasty chili Kids and grownups alike will enjoy Homeschool Day: California at Bat tunity to explore outdoors cook-offs and cool car shows around.

10am at California Museum munching on donuts and walking Book self-guided, group tours to find around the Museum. after school this month, too! www.Rocklin.Ca.Us www.SacDonutFest.com out about educational programs the 13th Annual Fair Oaks Chicken Festival 10am-6pm at Village of Fair Oaks

Kid’s entertainment, a cluck n’ crow contest, a pancake breakfast, food trucks, vendors and more! https://FORPD.org

22 California Capital Air Show September 21-23, 9am at Mather Airport

Watch air shows by the USAF Thunderbirds, view aircrafts on display and visit the Kiddie Hawk section. http://CaliforniaCapitalAirShow.com

29 2018 Farm-to-Fork Festival 11am at Capitol Mall Fair Oaks Chicken Festival, September 15th

Live music, cooking demonstrations, kid-friendly activities, exhibits, food and more. www.FarmToFork.com ScholarShare Children’s Book Festival September 29-30, 10am at Fairytale Town

Enjoy readings by children’s book authors and illustrators, storytelling and activities. http://FairytaleTown.org CA Capital Air Show, September 22nd

2nd Annual Pumpkin Festival 11am at Gibson Ranch

Pick pumpkins, play in the bounce houses and obstacle courses and take a hay or pony ride. www.GibsonRanchPark.com Sacramento Reptile Show

September 29-30, 10am at Sacramento Convention Center

This show will dazzle your reptile loving child. http://SacReptileShow.com 30 SEPTEMBER 2018 sacramentoparent.com

Brazilian Day Sacramento 1pm at Downtown Sacramento

museum offers. www.CaliforniaMuseum.org

Live samba dancing, capoeira and Brazilian drumming, eat new foods and hear live Brazilian music. www.BrazilianDaySacFest.com

17

16

Princesses will visit with dinner guests, create balloon animals and face paint. https://PetesRandB.com

Excursion Train Rides 11am at California State Railroad Museum

Hop aboard for a 45-minute train ride along the Sacramento River. Tickets are first-come, first-served, check the website for departure location. www.CaliforniaRailroad.Museum

23 Off Track: All Ages Comedy 2pm at Blacktop Comedy

A fun, family-friendly, improv comedy show that offers the chance to come on stage and participate. (Ages 4-12) http://BlacktopComedy.com Sea Otter Awareness Week 1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

Learn about ocean and river otters during this fun-filled program. www.SeaOtterWeek.org

30 Turkey Vultures 10:30am at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

Find out how turkey vultures and how they impact our ecosystem. www.SacNatureCenter.net

Princess Night 6pm at Pete’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, Rocklin

All Aboard for Story Time 11am at California State Railroad Museum

Join this world-class museum each Monday for story time. Free with paid Museum admission. www.CaliforniaRailroad.museum

24 Open Play 9:30am at BusyKidz

A hands-on learning space designed to look like a mini town, where the interactive exhibits foster little ones imaginations and social skills. www.BusyKidzFolsom.com Fish Hatchery Exploration 8am at Nimbus Fish Hatchery

Tour the visitor’s center and ponds to learn about the Chinook salmon and steelhead, then walk to the American River. www.Wildlife.Ca.Gov

tuesday

4 Open Ice Skating

5 Rockin’ Tots

10am at Skatetown

9am at Rockin’ Jump Roseville

The ice rink is open to the public on Tuesdays. This session is recommended for older children. http://Skatetown.biz Public Play Sessions 9-11am at The Bounce Spot, West Sacramento

6pm at Fountains at Roseville

A family event featuring food trucks, vendors and entertainment. http://CarmichaelPark.com

Weekday Science Storytime

10am at Face in a Book

Head to the Fountains for a fun evening outdoors that includes a kid zone, costumed characters, vendors, a car show and live entertainment. www.FountainsAtRoseville.com

11am at Powerhouse Science Center

11

12

$5 Tuesdays

Kids Yoga

10am at Studio Movie Grill

8:30am at BusyKidz Play Town and Coffee Shop

Children and families will enjoy the benefits and fun that yoga offers to participants. Mats provided. www.BusyKidzFolsom.com

9:30am & 10:30am at El Dorado Hills Library

KidJump

Sing songs, discover new books and build an early literacy foundation for your toddler. www.ElDoradoLibrary.org

If your kids (6 and under) are ready to dominate the park without bigger kids around, check-out KidJump. www.MojoDojo.com

18

19

NASA with Jayce Pearson

Talk Like a Pirate Day

6:30pm at Rio Linda Library

9am at Fairytale Town

Explore planetary science and learn how scientists use what we know about Earth to study other rocky planets in the solar system. www.SacLibrary.org

25

See a performance “Pyrate Skool,” performed by the Pirates of Sacramento and play pirate themed games all day long. Wear pirate attire and receive one free child admission per paid adult. www.FairytaleTown.org

Open Play

Wee Wednesday

9am at Wacky Tacky

Climb, slide and run around inside the giant indoor playground. www.WackyTacky.net Munchkin Monday 11am at Sky High Sports

Jump around with your little one for two hours at this indoor trampoline park on Mondays. (6 and under) http://Sac.SkyHighSports.com

First Friday at the Fountains

Park, Rec and Eat It

Head to this indoor trampoline park with your tot. They’ll love you for it.

(Ages 6 & under) http://Roseville.RockinJump.com

Don’t forget to bring socks! Open bounce is $7 per child on Tuesday through Friday. www.TheBounceSpot.com

2’s & 3’s On the Go!

7

6 5pm at Carmichael Park

Gather in the Nature Discovery exhibit to hear a science-themed book and then participate in a fun activity. Free with museum admission. https://PowerhouseSC.org/

Going to the movies mid-week is an excellent idea, especially when there are $5 deals all day long! www.StudioMovieGrill.com

friday

thursday

wednesday

9am at Mojo Dojo

10am at Crocker Art Museum

A fun art adventure for children ages 3 to 5. www.CrockerArt.org

26 Preschool Storytime 11am at North Natomas Library

Sing songs, hear stories and repeat rhymes in a program designed to encourage early literacy skills. (Ages 3-5) www.SacLibrary.org

Story Time Visit this cute bookstore for a weekly story time with songs and fun. www.GetYourFaceInABook.com

Family Skate Session 2pm at Skatetown Ice Arena

Families with younger children are invited to try ice skating between the hours of 2 to 5 pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. http://Skatetown.biz

13 Gather Oak Park 5pm at Oak Park

Enjoy an evening outdoors with food trucks, entertainment for kids and live music. www.GatherNights.com

14 5th Annual Fall Festival 5pm at Rollingwood Athletic Club

This event offers fun for the whole family, including kids activities, live music, food and drinks. www.RollingwoodClub.com

20 Circus Vargas 1pm at Sunrise Mall

From acrobats, daredevils and flying trapeze artists to clowns and motorcycles, this circus show is sure to please every age. (September 20-24) http://CircusVargas.com

Kids Night Out 6pm at Color Me Mine Rocklin

Parents get a night out while kids watch the new “Smallfoot” movie, paint, eat treats and play games. (Ages 5 and up). http://Rocklin.ColorMeMine.com

Food Truck Mania 5pm North Natomas Library

Dine outdoors while listening to live music, get your face painted and hit up the balloon artist for a fun balloon creation. www.SactoMofo.com

21 Friday Flicks: “Coco” (PG) 7:30pm (or sunset) at Vernon Street Town Square

Circus Vargas

Watch a movie under the stars with your family. www.Roseville.Ca.us

Varying times at Westfield Galleria Mall

Gather Rocklin

27 From acrobats, daredevils and flying trapeze artists to clowns and motorcycles, this circus show is sure to please every age. (September 27th-October 7th) http://CircusVargas.com

5pm at Quarry Park

Enjoy an evening outdoors with food trucks, entertainment for kids and live music. www.GatherNights.com

28 Pop-up Adventure Play Day 7:30pm at McKinley Library

Join the free play day hosted by Fairytale Town and Sacramento Adventure Playground. Activities include mud play, fort building, chalk art, bubbles and a paint wall. www.FairytaleTown.org

For more events, visit our online calendar at sacramentoparent.com. sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2018 31

calendar/shows

calendar/exhibits

It’s always a good idea to check the website before you head out!

Membership Medley Through September 8 at Blue Line Arts

In the Heights

Highly recommended, this exhibit features a wide mix of subjects and mediums, including abstract paintings, sculptures, mixed media and photography. www.BlueLineArts.org

September 1-30 at Sutter Street Theatre Winner of the 2008 Tony Awards for best musical, best score, best choreography and best orchestrations, this lively performance tells the story of a dynamic community in New York’s Washington Heights neighborhood, where hopes, dreams, challenges and struggles come to life for the cast and audience. http://SutterStreetTheatre.com

Folsom Lake Symphony

September 6 at El Dorado Hills Town Center Listen to the symphony while picnicking under the stars. Arrive by 5:30pm; concert begins at 7pm. www.FolsomLakeSymphony.com

The Boy Who Stole the Stars

Now through September 9 at Sutter Street Theatre This heartwarming play depicts the story of a boy who renews his relationship with his dying grandfather While working on a school project together—counting the stars—his grandpa tells a legend about a dragon in the sky who guards the stars. He tells the boy that if the stars are returned to earth, there’d be a new paradise on earth with no death. The boy goes on a mission to get the stars in order to save his grandpa. http://SutterStreetTheatre.com

The Chinese Warriors of Peking

September 22-23 at Harris Center for the Performing Arts A breathtaking performance that tells the story of two martial arts disciplines that compete against one another, featuring talented acrobatics, weapons handling, stage combat and more. www.HarrisCenter.net

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow

Sept 22-October 21 at Sutter Street Theatre Older teens might enjoy this spooky tale about two boys in the haunted town of Sleepy Hollow competing for the affection of one girl and the lengths they will go to in order to win her hand, including ghastly pranks and plots. Who will win?

The play includes appearances by a spirited apparition, the Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow. http://SutterStreetTheatre.com

Broadway through the Decades

September 24 at The Harris Center for the Performing Arts This one night performance by the El Dorado Musical Theatre’s Premier Performing Group showcases songs from hit Broadway classics. Every age will enjoy the show. http://EDMT.info

32 SEPTEMBER 2018 sacramentoparent.com

Hitting the Road September 28-February 25 at California Automobile Museum

Road trips with family and friends are some of life’s most memorable experiences. Learn how cars, cultures and personal differences over the past few decades have made for unique journeys on the road.

CalAutoMuseum.org Nature’s Gifts Through December 31 at Crocker Art Museum

Wendy Willrich, who acquired 41 early California paintings created between the 1870s and 1940s, recently decided to make the Crocker Art Museum home to her collection. Locals will truly enjoy viewing this astonishing array of oil and watercolor landscape paintings, many of which depict the commanding scenes of the Sierra Nevada mountains. www.CrockerArt.org

Raising a child with special needs?

Sacramento Parent is here to encourage, support and connect you with resources and other parents.

let’s go

Circus Vargas...Exciting, magnificent and animal-free!

Circus Vargas has been coming to the Sacramento area for several years and for those who have fond memories of going to the circus as a child, you will have the opportunity this month to share that experience with your kids. This animal-free circus production that still manages to deliver audiences the nostalgic, authentic, traditional circus feel that fans love, albeit without the animal factor. It’s the perfect mix of aerial artistry, dare-devilry, comedy, magic and acrobatics. So why no animals?

“We receive many inquiries as to why Circus Vargas’ current productions do not include animal acts,” says Rolanda Kaiser, PR Director. “The creative concept behind the reincarnation of Circus Vargas has simply been a natural progression in the long and stellar careers of owners Nelson and Katya Quiroga. Having performed as acrobats and aerialists with some of the most famous circuses in the world, Nelson has always gravitated toward the acrobatic aspect of circus. Katya, a former ballerina, leans toward the artistic, balletic aspect, the beauty of movement and the human form. For them, Circus Vargas is the culmination of their two passions. The current productions, born of their artistic collaboration, are based on the human aspect of their combined circus experiences and expertise.”

In other words, it’s just not their thing! Circus Vargas’ new owners are former acrobats and are doing what they know best.

Although some might not imagine a circus without animals, the circus is really so much more! It’s a feeling, a magnificent experience. It’s that giddy excitement that overcomes you the moment you’ve entered the big top in excited anticipation, wondering what spectacular things are awaiting to be seen!

This year’s theme is “Dreaming of Pirates!” and the swashbuckling circus spectacular will start 45 minutes early with a preshow celebration where kids can learn some circus skills such as juggling and balancing and more! During the show experience Death-Defying Acrobats, Daredevils, Flying Trapeze Artists, Jugglers, Contortionists, Comedians, Clowns and Motorcycles.

After the show stick around to meet and mingle with the cast and take pictures.

CITRUS HEIGHTS at Sunrise Mall Sept. 20 - 24 ROSEVILLE at Westfield Galleria Sept. 27 -Oct 7 FOLSOM at Lakeside Church Oct 10 -14 For more information about the upcoming shows visit www.circusvargas.com.

Join us at Greater Sacramento's premier event celebrating pregnancy, babies and families!

Win amazing door prizes, talk with experts, mingle with fairies, princesses and superheroes, shop, laugh, dance and play...plus, free entertainment on stage throughout the day!

And to celebrate our 10th year, we are offering free tickets to ride the Folsom Valley Railway train. *Limited quantity, first-come, first-served.

Back by popular demand, bring your child out to the Cover Kid Search for a chance to be featured on the cover of a future issue of Sacramento Parent!

Sacramento Parent believes in giving back to the community. This year a portion of the Babies and Bumps proceeds will be donated to Saint John's Program for Real Change.

Brought to you by

www.BabiesandBumps.net sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2018 33

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If you love everything pumpkin, the Elk Grove Giant Pumpkin Festival is for you!

Weighing in at nearly one ton, you’ve never seen pumpkins like this before! Giant pumpkin growers from all over California and beyond will be vying for the top prize—and perhaps a world record—as each of their enormous orange gourds hit the scale on Saturday morning during the Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off. There are hours of amusement for young festival goers with free or low-cost interactive activities including carnival games and rides, arts and crafts, an agricultural area, pumpkin patch and many beautiful fall photo ops.

Grab some treats from the Pumpkin Food Court then head over to the lake to cheer on brave paddlers as they race giant pumpkin canoes in the Pumpkin Regatta. New this year, you can watch world-renowned pumpkin carvers sculpt a GIANT jack-o’-lantern right before your eyes!

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B.A. Degree in Music & 30 years experience Immediate Openings

JulieChafin@comcast.net

Accepting new clients for individual and group services. Contact us today for a free over-the-phone consultation.

916.905.0217 www.MelodyTreeMT.com

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Children and adults are invited to enter the Festival’s contests for cash prizes, bragging rights and good old-fashioned fun!

Junior artists and bakers can show off in the Youth Art Contest and Lil’ Pumpkin Cupcake Contest. Families and all ages can make memories in the Community Pie-Eating Contest or Scarecrow-Making Contest. Some of the contests require pre-registration by September 21.

Enter online at www.yourcsd.com/contests.

The Elk Grove Giant Pumpkin Festival is hosted by the Cosumnes Community Services District (CSD) Parks and Recreation Department in partnership with many sponsors. Admission is FREE. Parking inside the park is $10. A portion of festival proceeds benefit local youth and service organizations.

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Restrictions may apply. Please call for details.

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WE’LL BE AT

SEE YOU THERE! 10/07 - 10/08 10AM-5PM Elk Grove Regional Park

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10/06/2018 10AM - 3PM Folsom Community Center