'Hood Magazine-May/June 2014

May/June 2014

parent • child • family

TM

www.thehoodmagazine.com

ULTIMATE ABC List of Birthday Party Ideas

Low-stress activities and themes from A-Z

Give-Back Birthday Parties How the Johnson family uses birthday celebrations to give back to the community

4th Annual

Birthday ISSUE

Sioux Empire’s Parenting Resource

We’re bringing

HOUSE CALLS

back.

With a twist.

When routine illness* strikes, Sanford Health is providing you with a hassle-free option to receive care. Thanks to e-visits, you can now interact with us online when – and where – it’s convenient for you.

Simply log on to My Sanford Chart and complete a brief questionnaire. One of our providers will review your information and provide you with a treatment plan, order a prescription or request to see you in person if necessary.

You can expect a response from a provider within four hours during normal hours of operation. Sanford e-visits are available seven days a week and give you access to quality care on your terms.

Learn more about e-visits at sanfordhealth.org/evisit.

Choose connected care. Choose Sanford.

* Adults who reside in South Dakota, Minnesota, or Iowa and have seen a Sanford Health providers in the past 3 years may request an e-visit if they are suffering from one of the following conditions: sinus infection, pink eye, urinary tract infection, vaginal discharge, diarrhea, cough or back pain.

Apple, the Apple logo and iPhone are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. Google Play is a trademark of Google Inc.

100-11395-5887 3/14

Evans Plunge

Experience family fun in the world’s largest natural warm mineral water indoor swimming pool.

The Mammoth Site

The whole family can enjoy this ongoing paleontological site where more than 60 mammoths have been uncovered to date.

Wind Cave National Park One of the world’s longest caves features beauty above and below the surface and tours for all ages.

A BLACK HILLS VACATION ALL ITS OWN When you head for the Black Hills, escape to Hot Springs–home to warm mineral waters, underground caverns, wild mustangs, prehistoric fossils and soft sandy beaches. You will also find budget-friendly hotels, unique sandstone architecture and family adventures in every direction. Plan your trip to Hot Springs. It’s a Black Hills vacation all its own.

HOT SPRINGS

Part of Your American Journey in South Dakota 1-800-325-6991 • HotSprings-SD.com

Request a Free South Dakota Vacation Guide • 1-800-S-DAKOTA • TravelSD.com

Southeastern is dedicated to providing quality, professional services to keep our individuals, families, schools, workplaces, and communities emotionally

SUMMER IS

so much fun!

strong and healthy.

Southeastern has watched the lives of children, adults and families change as they received the help they needed.

The LSS summer program combines learning and recreation to keep kids engaged and happy.

• Enriching activity choices • Hands-on learning opportunities • Weekly themes • Pool access • Field trips

Directions for Today.

Directions for Tomorrow.

Directions for Life.

Your kids will love our affordable summer programs for kids K-5.

Five convenient locations open Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Space is limited. Enroll today! learning@LssSD.org

605-371-8770

Infant, toddler and preschool programs also available!

Childcare.LssSD.org

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May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

2000 S. Summit Ave. Sioux Falls, SD 57105 605.336.0510 1-866-258-6954 • directionsforlife.org 1.866.258.6954 directionsforlife.org

Birthday Party Ideas Low-stress activities and themes from A-Z.

18 Give-Back Birthday Parties

How the Johnson family uses birthday celebrations to give back to the community.

27 Birthday Party Directory

pregnancy 9 Big Sister Brunch

How one family’s baby shower helped prepare their daughter for a new sibling.

baby 10 Baby Talk and Beyond

Helping your child develop great communications skills.

20 child

13 Dental Sealants:

What are they and why are they needed?

24 Healthy Birthday Parties for Kids

Simple ways to incorporate healthier, kid-friendly food options.

16 Active Birthday Parties Get kids moving, playing, and celebrating together while keeping these factors in mind.

58 RSVP Etiquette The importance of responding to an invitation.

60 Affordable Birthday Celebrations

local 20 Birthday Bashes

Two local event planners share details of two fantastic party themes.

50 L ife Insurance:

Living Benefits

photo courtesy of Kara Weber

parent

Tips and tricks to keep expenses under your budget.

family

27

5

Planning for the future can benefit the whole family.

53 T he Role of “Ice

Cream” in Your Family’s Budget The importance of tracking your family’s spending and setting financial goals.

62 S top Fighting!

One family’s strategy to ease sibling rivalry.

62 in every issue 6 Welcome 14 Kara’s Kreative 45 Calendar of Events 55 Menu Planning May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

© Finished Vision Photography

on the cover 14 U ltimate ABC List of

contents

May/June 2014

©Ann Louisa Photography

TM

welcome baby

TM

‘HOOD HAPPENINGS

President & Publisher Steffanie Liston-Holtrop Hoodlum Productions, LLC 605-366-1479 steff@thehoodmagazine.com photos courtesy of Kara Weber

‘Hood out and about: participating in Ag Day 2014 and visiting KSFY discussing the ALL THINGS GREEN issue.

Editor Hannah (Weise) Steck hannah@thehoodmagazine.com Design Director Ally Vogel 605-759-5615 ally@allysart.com Digital Media Director Jillian Lemons jillian@thehoodmagazine.com Advertising Account Executive Kelli Johnson 605-366-9357 kelli@thehoodmagazine.com Creative Ideas Director Kara Weber Contributing Design Molly Bruggeman Cover Photo: Julie Prairie Photography Contributing Photographers Ann Louisa Photography Finished Vision Photography Kristi Shanks Photography Olivia Walter Photography

‘hood

UPCOMING EVENTS:

TM

oodmagaz

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parent • chil d • family

www.the

hoodmag

azine.co

TM July/august 2013

www.theh

September 2012

family parent • child •

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BACKTeTO ac OOLhing SCH that time!

It’s

Sioux Empire’s

and Learnin g

How new techno will impact the logy School Distric Sioux Falls t

rce

Parenting Resou

A Parent’s Guid to Brownbaggine’

The dos and don’ts packing a schoo of l lunch

Sioux Empire’s

Gettin in GearG:

a Back To Sch ooL SurvivaL guid e Parenting Resou

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NEXT ISSUE: Back to School: By the time summer ends, it can be a welcome relief to settle back into the school year routine. In the next issue, we’ll help you anticipate and prepare for the upcoming school year.

It’s All About Science Festival Saturday, June 14 9am-5pm ‘Hood will be there!

Lunch on the Farm Saturday, June 14 9am-1pm ‘Hood will be there!

Mother’s Day – We are giving away a $200 Pandora gift card at Riddle’s Jewelry for Mother’s Day. Please send us a letter telling us why your mom is the best.

See page 17 for details.

Father’s Day – We are giving away a $200 Scheels® gift card for Father’s Day. Please send us a letter telling us why your dad is the best. See page 17 for details.

‘HOOD on the SOCIAL SCENE: 6|

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

Contributing Writers Ashlee Ferguson, Caitlin Abbas, Kelly Thurman, Brienne Lineweber, Jeannie Johnson, Addie Graham-Kramer, Jessica Kerher, Amber Bruns, Tim Schut, Terra Koupal, Gene Luke, Shaina Herrmann, Amity Shay Neff ‘Hood on the Web Contributors Tiffany Von Wald, Jay Flangan, Danielle Ducheneaux, Nancy Fallon, Cathy A. Knecht, Melissa Taylor, Ashley Thompson ‘Hood Panel Members Heather DeWit, Dee Di Memmo, Addie Graham-Kramer, Bobbi Nelson, Stephanie Spaan, Ashley Thompson, Amity Shay Neff, Jen Rothenbuehler, Melissa Williams, Brooke Orcutt, Carrie Dragt, April Getz Reproduction or use of the contents of this magazine is prohibited.

‘Hood Magazine is published 9 times a year by Hoodlum Production, LLC and strives to publish only accurate information, however Hoodlum Production, LLC cannot be held responsible for consequences resulting from errors or omissions. All material in this magazine is the property of Hoodlum Production, LLC and cannot be reproduced without permission of the publisher. We welcome article proposals, story suggestions and unsolicited articles and will consider all submissions for publication.

Please send your thoughts, ideas and submissions to Hoodlums@thehoodmagazine.com. Magazine feedback and advertising and marketing inquiries to steff@thehoodmagazine.com. ©2014 Hoodlum Productions, LLC All Rights Reserved.

‘Hood Online Content

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Wondering about the Tooth Fairy’s going rate?

It may be higher than you think.

Guidelines, tips and tricks for planning birthday parties, ages infant to 18.

© Shutterstock

Reasons to create a trust along with your will.

Average Tooth Fairy Gift Hits Record High in 2013

Birthday Parties, Birthday Parties, Birthday Parties!

Estate Planning – What’s Your Plan?

Me Time Makes Me a Better Mom as CEO (and my family appreciates it!)

Five me-time essentials that make busy moms better Chief Education Officers (CEOs).

5 Secrets to Throwing a Child’s Birthday Party That Even the Adults Will Enjoy!

© Ashley Thompson

What to know about becoming pregnant after 35.

© Jillian Lem ons

Tooth Fairy graphic is courtesy of Delta Dental of South Dakota

Still Time to Try

tography © Finished Vision Pho

on the WEB

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May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com |

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May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

by Ashlee Ferguson

We are expecting our second child (due May 9, 2014), but our daughter, Ezzie, who is currently 5, was having a hard time with the idea of becoming a big sister.

pregnacy

Big Sister Brunch She was reverting back to baby-like tendencies and becoming increasingly more frustrating. So my husband, Amos, and I thought what better way to get her excited about having a sibling than to celebrate it with a party. We dubbed it the Big Sister Brunch and made it a play on the typical baby shower, but instead of having myself (the Mom) as the center of attention, we showered all the attention on Ezzie (the Big Sister).

I started planning about a month ahead of time and used Pinterest for help with party ideas. We knew we wanted to include a gender reveal, games, and special thank you gifts for her friends who came to celebrate. As everyone arrived, they guessed the baby’s gender and pinned either a mustache or a pair of lips on their shirt depending on the guess.

We encouraged everyone to eat since we had plenty of food and activities for the kids. The kids played two games.

For the first game, the kids paired up and, using paper streamers and clothespins, they had to make diapers on each other. They were hesitant at first, but once it became a competition, they were all in. For the second game, we had the kids put small balloons in their shirts, and they had to race with ping-pong balls between their knees and drop the ping-pong balls into a cup on the other side of the room.

This was probably my favorite part because the kids were so into the game, and it was fun to watch.

9

After the craziness of the games, the kids sat around a table and decorated onesies with fabric markers. As they finished the onesies, we displayed them on ribbon hung by clothespins for everyone to view.

My advice for others planning a baby shower is not to overthink a theme. Remember it’s about celebrating the life growing inside you and all the special moments you will share with him or her in the future.

For our big finish, we gathered everyone around the table, and Ezzie ate the first cupcake, which had pink or blue frosting in the center to reveal the baby’s gender. It was a boy! We then let the kids fill goodie bags at our pink and blue candy bar to take home. Ezzie felt so special to see how happy her friends and family were for her that day.

Every other concern of hers seemed to disappear, and now she is eagerly awaiting the baby’s arrival. n

p‘hood should Consider involving your child in baby shower festivities to help him or her get excited for a new sibling.

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com |

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baby

by Caitlin Abbas, MA, CCC-SLP, Speech Language Pathologist, LifeScape, formerly Children’s Care Hospital & School and South Dakota Achieve

Baby Talk and Beyond:

visit TM

o thenWEB

for more on in te with your toddracting le preschooler. r/

Helping your child develop great communication skills photos courtesy of LifeScape

Parents have many roles, but one of the most important is being a teacher for their children. Language skills can and should be taught to children from day one. The more parents talk to and interact with their children, the faster they learn language. Good language skills lay the foundation for good academic and social skills.

There are many things that can be done to help develop skills. Two of the most important things that should be done at any age are: • Check your child’s ability to hear, and pay close attention to any ear problems and infections.

• R ead, Read, Read! Reading enhances vocabulary, sentence building and grammar, listening, attention span, imagination, thinking, storytelling, and bonding.

Prior to first words: • Reinforce your baby’s communication by looking at him or her and imitating his or her vocalizations, laughter, and facial expressions.

• T alk about what you are doing and where you are going. Using descriptive words helps build vocabulary, even at an early age!

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May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

After baby’s first words: • Use simple but grammatical speech. Place emphasis on the important words. This is much easier for your child to understand and imitate.

• E xpand on words that your child says. If she says “car,” respond with “That is a fast, blue car.”

• I f you cannot understand your child, continue to reinforce communication attempts. Ask him or her to repeat or point to things to clarify the message.

• A sk your child questions that require a choice, rather than a yes or no answer. For example, “Do you want a cracker or a cookie?” instead of “Do you want a cracker?”

• Place toys in a bucket and have your child take the toys out while labeling each one. Expand on the label using describing words.

Incorporating these easy ideas into your everyday routine will expand your child’s language skills and enrich their daily activities. If you have concerns about your child’s language development, talk to your child’s doctor. They may refer your child for a speech and language evaluation. n

‘hood should

p

Talk to your child’s doctor if you have concerns about your child’s language development.

www.abcdentalkids.com

Around the time of your child's

1ST BIRTHDAY is when the

1ST DENTAL VISIT is recommended!

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com |

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Summer Ready Comprehensive Eye Exams Newest Technology in Lenses and Equipment Exclusive Eyewear Expert Contact Lens Fittings Style Consultants/Opticians Family Friendly Prices Most Vision Insurance Plans Accepted

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by Brienne Lineweber, DDS, Family Dental Center

photos courtesy of Family Dental Center

child 13

Dental Sealants

What are they and why are they needed?

Has your dentist ever recommended dental sealants to you or your child? Most parents have heard of dental sealants, but many may not know their purpose. This preventative treatment option has been around for decades and has been shown to be very safe and effective.

Dental sealants are a material barrier typically placed in the pits and grooves of the chewing surfaces of back permanent teeth. This material stays put and effectively blocks the bacteria from getting in to the pits and grooves of the teeth, which can be common areas for cavities to start. In effect, the sealants help to prevent the need for fillings, root canals and crowns. Not only is it less expensive than the possible treatments previously mentioned, but it is also much less invasive. The dentist or hygienist uses a gel to clean the tooth surface, washes the gel off, and then places the dental sealant, hardening it with a light. In a few minutes, your child will be that much more protected from the harmful effects of cavity-causing bacteria.

Your dentist will typically recommend dental sealants for all “6 year molars” and “12 year molars.” Sometimes, your dentist may recommend dental sealants on other teeth as well, depending on how deep the pits and grooves may appear. These protective barriers hold up well for several years under normal chewing forces.

While dental sealants help to protect the pits and grooves on the chewing surfaces of teeth, it is important to remember they are not meant to replace healthy oral hygiene habits. The smooth surfaces on the tongue and cheek sides of the teeth, as well as the surfaces between teeth, are still exposed to the cavity causing bacteria. The American Dental Association recommends brushing with fluoridated toothpaste at least two times per day, for two minutes each time. It is also advised to floss daily and maintain a well-balanced diet, limiting snacks between meals. Regular visits to the dentist will give your child an opportunity to maintain healthy teeth, and dental sealants will provide one more way to prevent harmful cavities. n

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com |

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child

by Kara Weber, Creative Ideas Director

Ultimate ABC List of Birthday Party Theme Ideas Animals – Decorate with stuffed animals, and use Zoo Pals® plates.

Put an animal cracker on top of each cupcake.

Bowling – Take a group of

kids bowling, and eat the cake and open presents while you are there.

Entertainment is taken care of, and it is not at your house.

OK, maybe not beef wellington, but kitchen creation parties can be a tasty and entertaining idea.

Fairy Princess Party –

Make cookie wands with star sugar cookies baked around a chopstick that they can decorate themselves.

Decorate cardboard fairy wings or crowns to wear.

Ice Cream Party – Imagine

making the longest ice cream sundae ever with every topping imaginable. I am talking a rain gutter with end caps lined with plastic wrap or tin foil to hold this long sundae awesomeness.

It will be something your child will never forget!

Campout Party – You don’t have to travel to a campsite to have this party. Put up some tents in the backyard and roast s’mores in a fire pit, and you will have some happy birthday campers.

Dinosaur Party – Make

fossil cookies by stamping toy dinosaur footprints into sugar cookie dough. Add rows of paper spikes to plain party hats or balloons to make instant dino-themed decorations.

G

E

ating Party – We mean a Master Chef Jr. or Cake Boss challenge party where the activity is actually cooking, mixing, and baking the food they will get to eat. Cakes, pizza, cookies, apple pie, beef wellington…

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May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

ame Show Party – Minute to Win it, Family Game Night, and Win Lose or Draw are all popular game shows that kids watch these days and will also make easy theme party ideas. Minute to Win It ideas are all over on Pinterest, and you can do your own version of the new Win Lose or Draw with a tablet hooked up to your TV screen.

H

otel Party – Rent a hotel room with a fun pool, grab some pizza, and you have the makings for fun time with little entertainment planning on the part of parents.

Jumping Party – Sometimes just renting a simple bouncy house for the backyard can be all the entertainment you need for a bunch of birthday party guests.

Kindness as in “Random Acts of Kindness” – Honor your special day by running around town performing a different random act of kindness for every year you are old, like taping microwave popcorn with a fun note to a Redbox machine for whoever comes along next. You can find tons of other R.A.K. ideas on Pinterest.

square, yellow plates and add your own Lego Man face with a marker.

Stuff an empty Kleenex box with candy and prizes and cover it with paper streamers. Add six paper circles to the top to make your own easy Lego brick piñata.

Mad Scientist Party – Set up multiple simple experiments and lead scientists through amazing discoveries.

Neon Glow Party – Buy

some black lights and neon party supplies to have a fun party that glows in the dark. Have guests wear bright colors

O

utdoor Adventure Party – Take a trip to a state park or to the Outdoor Campus. Decorate your own water bottles. Go for a nature hike where explorers have to accomplish certain group challenges along the way. Go on a scavenger hunt, or just explore the great outdoors and take research photos of what you find. Have a picnic packed and ready to go. Don’t forget to include beef jerky and trail mix.

P

op Star Party – Just bust out the karaoke music and dress up like rock stars. Or take it one step further with emphasis on “pop” – popcorn, pop, pop rocks, and popsicles!

Queen of the Spa Party

– Manicures, pedicures, facials. Don’t forget the cucumbers for their eyes

and the special dollar store flip flops to keep their toenails from getting smudged.

Rainbow Party – Explore

colors with finger painting and colored water mixing. Decorations are a snap, plates one color, napkins another, cups another, silverware another.

Make cupcakes with different colors of frosting and arrange them in an arch to make an easy rainbow cake.

Star Wars – Find some pool

noodles and cut them in half. Add duct tape to create a light saber handle. Draw storm trooper faces on white balloons and have the kids attack them with their light sabers.

Tie-Dye Party – Have your

buckets of dye and clothesline up outside and ready to go. Show the tweens/teens a few online video tutorials and let them loose with the rubber bands to create their own designs. Provide a white shirt, but invite them to bring socks or a pillowcase from home to keep the dye fun from dying.

Upcycled Art Party –

Save up all your cardboard boxes and oatmeal containers and unleash your child and your child’s friend’s creativity. Provide them with low temp glue guns, scissors, yarn, google eyes, and feathers and see what they come up with. There are no rules, just creative fun.

Video Scavenger Hunt

W

ater Fight – What better way to get that energy out than with a great backyard/neighborhood water fight. Have plenty of water balloons ready!

child

party. Toss the kids in the car and give them clues as to where you will be going. Have them guess before you drive. Stop by some of their favorite places, and have them complete various challenges. Capture it all on video and you will have a memory to last a lifetime.

Lego Building Party – Buy

15

X-men or Superhero

Theme Party – Use a pillowcase and safety pins to make your own superhero capes for those who attend. Use fabric markers to decorate them, and when kids visit get done fighting crime at o then the party they for DIY no-sew will also have ca instructions! pe a keepsake pillowcase to take home.

TM

WEB

Yoshi or Mario Party – A

simple square box wrapped in yellow wrapping paper with a giant question mark on it will make an easy piñata.

Star-shaped cookies or sandwiches add a star power touch.

Stretch spiraled green streamers from floor to ceiling and attach a few paper leaves to create the look of Mario’s climbing vines.

Z

zzz Sleepover Party – Movies, popcorn, pizza, and sleeping bags. Done! n

Party – Great for a smaller tween May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com |

15

parent

by Gene Luke, All American Gymnastics Academy

Active Birthday Parties Planning an active birthday party?

© Finished Vision Photography

Here are a few things to look for.

1. The most important thing is safety.

Birthday parties for children are sure to involve excitement, adrenaline, and chaos. That is when accidents and risk of injury increases. When planning a birthday party, there are a few things to keep in mind: • A re rules in place that promote safety, and are the rules explained prior to the activity?

• I s there responsible, trained and attentive staff for the facility or activity?

• Are the safety rules enforced?

2. Facility and party venue • A re all of the activities at the party location age appropriate for all the children attending the party?

• D oes the facility allow food, drink, decorations, etc.?

• I s the facility accommodating to your needs to host a successful party?

• Is the facility clean?

• Does the venue offer a private party room? Is there adequate seating for the number of guests attending your party?

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May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

3. Duration • For some children, too much physical activity can cause fatigue.

Therefore, the risk of injury increases. Make sure the length of time is not too long for the age of the children participating.

• A re there a variation of activities that are appropriate for all the children to keep them interested and having fun for the entire time allotted for the party?

4. Security • Is there heavy public traffic?

Are the children at your party intermingling with others outside of your party? What is the facility policy to ensure the protection of the children attending your party?

• A re the doors and entrances supervised to ensure that the

children can’t walk out of the facility?

• I f the child is dropped off and the parent/guardian is not staying, make sure you confirm who will pick up the child.

• M ake sure the parents are aware of the time the party ends to ensure the child is picked up on time so you do not have to wait beyond a reasonable time after the party ends.

These are just a few things to look for when considering an active birthday party. Active parties are a great way to get kids moving, playing, and celebrating together. Most facilities and venues are willing to accommodate reasonable requests.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions and discuss concerns to make your child’s birthday party a success. n

Celebrate Mom!

NOMINATE YOUR DAD, TODAY!

WIN

$200 Fo r YOUR MOM !

BEST DAD! In 200 words or less, tell us why you have the BEST MOM and you may win a $200 PANDORA gift card from Riddle’s Jewelry! Find an entry form at thehoodmagazine.com and submit by May 8th. We will announce the winner on on our Facebook page May 10th, 2014.

Happy Mother’s Day from: TM

In 200 words or less, tell us why you have the BEST DAD and you may win a $200 gift card to SCHEELS! Find an entry form at thehoodmagazine.com and submit by May 31st. We will announce the winner on on our Facebook page June 13th, 2014.

WIN

$200 Fo r YOUR Dad !

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Specializing in your party and event rentals • • • • • • • •

tables &chairs tents cotton candy event decorations linens & dishware popcorn machines snowcone machines chocolate fountains and more!

ABC Rentals • 1701 West 12th Street, Sioux Falls, SD 57104 605-331-3644 • ABCrentalsmidwest.com May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com |

17

family

by Jeannie Johnson

visit

TM

on the WEB for additional photos.

Give-Back Birthday Parties When do you typically start planning a birthday party? Usually about a month before we decide what kind of party to have.

What guidelines do you set for your children when planning their birthday festivities? We like to try to include everyone, so we try to choose a party that is affordable and will allow us to do that.

Do you have both a birthday party with your children’s friends and a family party? Why or why not? They always have a family party, and that is where they get their bigger gifts. As the kids get into older ages, 8 and up, we like to plan a “giveback” party where they get to choose a charity and the gifts/ service goes to the charity. It’s amazing how much fun the kids have when they are given the opportunity to give back on their special day.

Why did your children choose to celebrate their birthdays with a volunteer activity? How has it impacted them? Our “give-back” parties started a few years ago when our son

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May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

wanted to invite everyone in his class to his party because he didn’t want to leave anyone out. He told us that it hurts not to be included, and he wanted everyone to be included.

At that point we asked him if he really “needed” 40 presents, because that’s how many kids would be there. It was at that point that he suggested giving the gifts away to kids who don’t have/get many gifts.

The idea grew from there. We researched some local charities, and that first year we gave the gifts to Children’s Care Hospital. We got a list of needed items and instead of the kids bringing gifts for the birthday boy, they picked a gift from the list and brought that. We had a pool party for the kids to swim and bring the gifts. The next year he chose the Castle Club through Sanford Children’s Hospital to be the recipient of the birthday giving. It is especially awesome when the kids get to deliver the gifts themselves. The past two years we have chosen Kids Against Hunger because it is not only a give-back program but the kids also get to do the hard work in packing the meals. They bring a donation instead of a birthday gift. The older kids really enjoy doing this, and it becomes a competition to see if they can beat last year’s meal packing number and beat each other’s tables.

How many meals did you pack? How much time did it take? Our record was over 10,000 meals at one party. We packed for about 1 1/2 hrs.

The younger kids packed a bit slower, so their numbers were lower.

Why do you, as a parent, think it’s important to consider a birthday party that gives back to the community? Our kids are fortunate and really don’t need one more gift card or another toy. Giving back teaches them to look at those less fortunate and help them. It takes them outside of themselves and looks at the needs of those around them. They can really make a difference in our community, even at a young age.

What did the guests think of the parties?

Parents LOVED that they didn’t have to go get yet another gift, wondering if that child already HAD that gift. Some parents stayed and helped and really enjoyed the whole experience. Kids had a ton of fun!

Did you do any other birthday activities?

If so, what were they? For the Kids Against Hunger parties we just had cupcakes one year and handed out candy bars the next year. For CCHS and Sanford Children’s, we had pool parties and pizza. Nothing we did took a ton of planning. The kids just want to hang together and play!

What advice do you have for others planning a child’s birthday party? Research different charities and chose a “give-back” party. What better way to make your birthday child feel special than by helping them organize such a meaningful event to help others? I know others who have done a give-back party for the Humane Society.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Once you do one “give-back” party, you will want to do all your parties like this! n

Plan your free & fun family activities with us!

Imagination Playground Monday - Friday 9am - 4pm These large blue building blocks will give your child a chance to create their own playground!

Craft Corner Monday - Friday 9am - 4pm Come use our materials and space to create whatever your imagination can think of!

LEGO Creation Station Monday - Friday 9am - 4pm We have hundreds of LEGOS and a hand built LEGO table ready to start building!

Storytime second Monday of every month 10am - 10:20am We will be reading two children’s books that will be fun and engaging for your child.

Afterschool Art April 15 & May 20 3:45pm - 4:45pm We will be learning about a new artist and creating a new piece of art. Must RSVP one week in advance.

Day Play fourth Monday of every month 10am - 11am Fun for five year olds and younger!

Sing a song, storytime and do an activity!

Jeannie, her husband, David, and their six kids: Zach, Ben, Sam, Dominic, Bella, and Molly.

MoVM 500 N. Main Ave. Sioux Falls, SD 57104 605-271-9500 www.sfmvm.com facebook.com/sfmvm

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

fun

by Addie Graham-Kramer

Party for BOYS

Batter Up! Planning and design by The Event Company

Concessions Table & Banner Serve all of baseball’s best treats at your concession stand! Snacks like licorice, buttered popcorn, Cracker Jacks, and corn dogs are sure to be a hit.

Cracker Jacks You can’t go to a baseball game without having Cracker Jacks. The best part is the prize inside for your little slugger and his fans!

visit

TM

on the WEBand

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Table Tent Cards Table tent cards are a coordinating element of your party and tie everything together. They also leave little to question when guests are selecting their snacks.

The Big Wooden “W” Your birthday boy will want to proudly display this wooden, burlap-covered capital letter.

The letter can symbolize his first or last name. You choose!

fun

Corn Dog Twinkies

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A simple activity for all players at the party to take part in.

There are only three steps!

Coke Bottles in Vintage Coke Crate Vintage crates, buckets and jars help pull together the theme of this party. Look for them at local garage sales, thrift stores or antique shops.

Look who’s turning

5!

This little slugger has invited all of his favorite players, coaches and fans to help celebrate his birthday!

Jar of Peanuts & Pennants Centerpieces What a fun way to get kids involved! Fill jars with peanuts in the shell and add a baseball and a custom pennant to create a centerpiece.

Photography by Ann Louisa Photography Vendors include: Ideal Wedding & Events, K Design+Events, Sugar’s Baked Goods and Sweet Treats, & ABC Rentals May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com |

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fun

Party for GIRLS

All things GIRLY!

by Jessica Kerher

Add some fun

Use two different napkin patterns for a eye catching pop of color.

Dip inexpensive flatware in modge podge then sprinkle with gold glitter for a fun detail that adds texture to the table setting.

Planning and design by Serendipitous Events

Custom labels

Have your graphic designer create labels with each child’s name for a personal touch.

Doughnuts Did you know your local bakery will customize a frosting color to match your party theme?

Stack your donuts like a cake! Doughnut cakes are all the rage right now!

Visit ‘H on the W ood E more pic B for s and instruct ion making s on you own tut r u.

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Birthday girl Jiahanna loves sparkles, the color pink and doughnuts. Who doesn’t love all of those things? We decided on a brunch theme because it was easy for her mom. Jia had her friends join her for sprinkle drinks, doughnuts, and celebrating. Her mom had the mess cleaned up before it was time for lunch.

Fancy drinks Dip cups in frosting and roll in sprinkles for an edible and colorful rim. Also, paper straws are a fun way to add a design to an ordinary cup.

fun 23

PanCAKEs

Create a panCAKE by stacking pancakes all the same size and placing on a cake stand!

Add sprinkles and candles for a fun twist on the traditional cake. Add a topper for a little extra splash of color.

Look who’s 2!

Goodie bags Give each kiddo something to take home to remember the special day! Have your graphic designer create a sticker that matches the labels you used on the milk glasses for a cohesive style!

Spell out the number two. Paint the cardboard letters, which you can find at your local craft store. This is a fun project for you and your child to do together. Arrange them on your table with cake stands and vases at varying heights for an eye-catching main table.

Photography by Ann Louisa Photography Vendors include: Confetti Creative Co., Ideal Wedding & Events, Meredith and Bridgett’s, ABC Rentals

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com |

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child

by Kelly Thurman, Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center

Healthy Birthday Parties for Kids A child’s birthday party is a day when healthy eating is often put aside for treats of sugary cake, candy, and pizza.

Amanda Viau, Executive Chef for Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center, said parents increasingly are opting to incorporate healthier options during special events such as birthday parties.

“It’s becoming a trend,” she said. “People are thinking more about health than they have in the past. We want to teach our kids how to eat healthy now because they will someday be making those decisions on their own.”

At a party of any kind, it’s hard to please everybody. But kids also follow each other. If one child is opting for the fruit, the others are more likely to try it, too, Amanda said.

Parents who want to keep party foods healthful should look to fresh, whole foods. “Anything that is overly-processed is usually not so good for you,” Amanda said.

That can be tricky with children, who often are picky eaters.

The key is to choose fun items kids can easily grab and to keep in mind a child’s palette isn’t as sophisticated as that of an adult. That means children tend to like sweeter foods

such as fruit and certain vegetables. Kids also are drawn to foods by look. If it looks unappealing, they probably won’t want to eat it.

“Things that are bright in color appeal to kids,” Amanda said. “Fresh fruit is always a hit.”

One way to appeal visually to a child’s palette is to have fun with design, taking advantage of the bright colors of fruits and vegetables. One example of this is plating the food to look like Sesame Street characters — use strawberries for Elmo, broccoli for Oscar the Grouch, or blueberries for Grover. Small containers of yogurt dip can be the eyes, while black olives or blackberries can form the mouth.

“Fruit and veggie kabobs are always really popular,” Amanda said. “You can do them ahead and they’re cold.”

The kabobs can be paired with a yogurt dip.

Amanda also recommends fresh fruit salsa paired with apple or pear chips. Other healthier options include whole wheat pretzels or Goldfish. visit TM

o thenWEB © Finished Vision Photography

for more healthier birton hd party options ay .

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For a sweet and salty option, use a waffle cone and fill it with lightly salted popcorn instead of ice cream.

On the treat side, Amanda is seeing increased requests for fresh fruit cakes, using watermelon as the base and other fresh fruits as the “frosting.� Ice cream sundaes can be replaced by frozen yogurt with fresh fruit.

Using whole, unprocessed foods also cuts down on allergy risks, though some children are allergic to fruits and vegetables.

Š Finished Vision Photography

The same can be done for another popular option: pizza stations. By using whole-wheat crust and offering healthy topping choices, parents can make it a healthier choice. Using hummus instead of pizza sauce is another option that Amanda said kids love.

“Instead of having those candies you’re really just incorporating more fresh fruit,� Amanda said.

“In fresh food, you’ll find fewer allergies than most processed foods. So you’re actually safer,� Amanda said. “If you’re serving things like frozen yogurt and fresh fruits there’s just fewer allergies involved in that.�

cover child

“Macaroni and cheese bars are popular right now. You can make your own mac and cheese, and it doesn’t have to be completely bad for you,� Amanda said. Using wholewheat pasta and skim cheese cuts down on calories and fat, and adding items like diced chicken, spinach, carrots or tomatoes adds nutrition.

25

When it comes to planning any party, don’t forget to leave time to enjoy it. Do as much prep work ahead of time as possible, Amanda said. For macaroni and cheese, toppings can be prepared ahead of time so that the day of the party all that remains is making the noodles and cheese sauce. “Keep it simple because you are going to be busy and you don’t want to be so overwhelmed that it’s not fun,� Amanda said. n

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Book Your Birthday Party Today!

2014 Birthday Party Package Prices

Day Rates

Evening Rates

11am-8pm

4-8pm

Over 48”

$20

$12

Under 48” & Seniors (60+)

$12

$10

Under 2 Years Of Age Season Pass Holder (Over 48”) Season Pass Holder (Under 48”)

Free $10 $6

Free $6 $5

Sales tax not included in prices listed above. Individual prices listed above.

All Birthday Package Prices include the following:

• Wild Water West Admission • Reserved tables for 1 hour in the Birthday Party Pavilion.

• Party Invitations. Available to download online.

• A special gift for the birthday child.

• Meal: Pizza, small pop, and ice cream treat.

605-361-9313 • WildWaterWest.com

Reservations must be made at least 24 hrs. in advance. Parties are scheduled on any regular operating day (subject to availability). Customer may bring their own birthday cake but must provide plates, forks, & napkins. Birthday parties must all arrive together at ticket booth to receive birthday rates. A min. of 5 guests is required to take advantage of these birthday party packages. Birthday party packages can’t be combined with any other offer, discount, or promotion.

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© Finished Vision Photography

fun

4th Annual

Birthday

27

DIRECTORY

by Hannah Steck From planning a low-key family get together to an all out neighborhood party, the items on your growing to-do list can add pressure to throw the latest and greatest birthday bash (not to mention Pinterest guilt). How will you be able to enjoy the special moments of your child’s birthday while making sure all of the details are in place? You probably won’t – at least, not without a little help.

‘Hood’s 4th Annual Birthday Party issue is bigger than ever, and our newly expanded Birthday Directory is here to make the planning process easier for you and your family.

The more preparation you can do before your child’s big day, the more time there will be for you to make some new memories.

What are your best birthday party tips and tricks? Let us know by posting comments on our Facebook page or our website, www.thehoodmagazine.com.

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com |

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fun

4th Annual

Birthday © Julie Prairie Photography

DIRECTORY

Julie Prairie Photography www.julieprairie.com

Photography and Design Ann Louisa Photography www.annlouisaphoto.com Phone: (605) 321-3973 Location: 326 E. 8th Street, Suite 107, Sioux Falls Ages: All Ages Price: $65+ Description: Ann Louisa offers one of a kind photo shoot parties that are sure to keep guests raving about how much fun they had! Birthdays, anniversaries, bachelorette parties, and more. Ann Louisa Photography is Sioux Falls’ premier fashion-inspired high school senior, women, and family portrait studio.

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Finished Vision Photography www.finishedvision.com Phone: (513) 485-8543 Location: 1208 W. 51st Street, Suite 2, Sioux Falls Ages: All Ages Price: $500+ Description: Finished Vision is your custom maternity, newborn, family, senior, and wedding photography studio. Our spacious and modern studio is conveniently located in central Sioux Falls. We generally book months in advance with very limited availability, so inquire today for your due date or Christmas card-ready family portrait.

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

Julie Prairie Photography www.julieprairie.com Phone: (605) 359-6640 Location: 400 N. Main, Sioux Falls Ages: 1 year Price: $75 session Description: Celebrate your child’s first year with The Ultimate First Birthday Cake Smash session at Julie Prairie Photography. Your session includes a deluxe cake from QT Cakes, customized to coordinate with our backgrounds and your special outfits, to create portraits as unique as your child. Let us design a stunning canvas collage or a keepsake album with images from your session that will be cherished memories for a lifetime.

Shaina Photography www.shainaphotography.com Phone: (605) 323-5153 Location: Sioux Falls Ages: All Ages Price: $200 (Up to 3 hours of coverage); Print and digital collections for parties start at $100

Description: Shaina Photography provides quality images that you can cherish for a lifetime. Sit back and enjoy your party while Shaina works to capture all of the best moments!

Availability is limited, so please call at least one month in advance.

Confetti Creative Co. www.facebook.com/Confetti CreativeCo Phone: (605) 228-5986 Location: Sioux Falls Ages: All Ages Price: Customized per order Description: Confetti Creative Co. is a design studio specializing in event invitations and custom paper goods.

Create the perfect invite for your party and all the little details, signage, custom decorations and favors to carry your theme throughout!

K Design+Events www.kdesignandevents.com Phone: (612) 716-5771 Location: Sioux Falls Ages: All Ages Price: $5 and up Description: We offer everything from invitations to thank you’s, party signs to banners, garlands to backdrops – all customized in detail for your special occasion.

K Design+Events is committed to thinking outside of the box to come up with innovative ideas and concepts, and creating custom handcrafted products using only the highest quality materials.

fun

Ileana Perez www.605filmlife.wordpress.com Phone: (605) 789-1990 Location: Sioux Falls Ages: All Ages Price: Please call for prices.

Description: I simply love making new friends and helping those around me to capture their most treasured moments.

If you need a photographer, let’s talk about your dreams over coffee!

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© Finished Vision Photography

friends

Finished Vision Photography www.finishedvision.com May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com |

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fun

Birthday DIRECTORY

Sweets and Treats The Cake Lady www.thecakeladysf.com Phone: (605) 610-9604 Location: Sioux Falls Ages: All Ages Price: Varies Description: Family owned and operated cakes and confections with heirloom recipes that start from scratch.

Everything from beautiful buttercream textures, fondant flare and sculptured masterpieces just for you. Custom designed to your taste from the design to the flavors.

buy a

cake

The Cookie Jar Eatery www.cookiejarsd.com Phone: (605) 978-0991 Location: 230 S. Phillips Ave, Sioux Falls Ages: 3-99 Price: Starting at $100 Description: The Cookie Jar Eatery offers a unique, affordable party setting for children of all ages. With multiple party packages available we create lasting memories through guided cookie decorating, delicious party food, and plenty of play space. Each party at the Cookie Jar Eatery features a personal party attendant who ensures all of the small details are covered; this allows guests to sit back, relax, and enjoy the special day.

Edible Arrangements www.ediblearrangements.com Phone: (605) 610-6633 Location: 5019 S. Western Ave, Suite 170, Sioux Falls (in the Bridges at 57th and Western) Ages: All Ages Price: Varies Description: The Edible Arrangements Birthday line is a vast one. Ranging from a 2 person bouquet to over 30 people bouquets. You can choose from our Children’s line, our Cupcake line, or Fresh-tini line, or our Everyday Occasion line. The greatness about Edible Arrangements for Birthday is that everybody loves fruit, especially kids.

You can add chocolate to the strawberries, chocolate dipped bananas, chocolate apple wedges, or chocolate apple truffles. Any of the Fruit Experts at Edible Arrangements Sioux Falls can help make it a WOW factor gift.

The Cookie Jar Eatery www.cookiejarsd.com

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© Finished Vision Photography

4th Annual

Bizzy Lizzy Flourless Bakery www.bizzylizzybakery.com Phone: (517) 610-1467 Location: Delivered to “YOUR Hy-Vee” Health Market Ages: All Ages Price: Starts around $24 for 12 cupcakes Description: We can customize the perfect dessert for your next event.

We start with fresh produce or the best chocolate in the country. You pick!

We frost them with our signature buttercream, or non-dairy options.

No artificial colors or flavors here.

Our cakes are made without the use of flour. We use American oatmeal for moisture and rich, deep flavors. You can request gluten free oatmeal (prices are higher). We can also make vegan, dairy free and egg free products.

Delicious is our standard, every day.

© Finished Vision Ph otography

Oh My Cupcakes! www.ohmycupcakes.com Phone: (605) 310-6742 Location: 5015 S. Western Ave, Suite 290 (in the Bridges at 57th and Western) Ages: 4-12 Price: $13.50-$15 per child, minimum of 6 children per party Description: Celebrate your next birthday at Oh My Cupcakes! We handle everything for you, including the mess! Party includes a tour of our Magical Cupcake Kitchen, two cupcakes to decorate (one to eat here during the party, and one to take home), and time for games and gifts.

Our Gourmet Party includes beverage, craft, and a few “extras.” Party availability is Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday 3 pm to 6 pm based upon availability.

Sugar’s Baked Goods and Sweet Treats www.sugarsbakedgoods.com Phone: (605) 521-1631 Location: Sioux Falls Ages: All Ages Price: $10-$30 Description: Gourmet, locallymade treats to make any occasion extra special! Sugar’s Baked Goods and Sweet Treats offers cupcakes, cakes, cookies, pies, and more in a variety of unique and delicious flavors.

Kids and adults love our hands-on cupcake decorating parties, where we provide the materials and help you design a treat that is all your own! A great activity for birthdays, showers, or anytime at just $8/person (plus tax)!

fun

Mandy Cake Cupcakes www.facebook.com/ pages/Mandy-CakeCupcakes/242282632467334 Phone: (605) 413-6396 Location: Sioux Falls Ages: All Ages Price: Birthday Special: 3 dozen cupcakes for $50 Description: Made from scratch cupcakes with a variety of flavors, fillings and frostings to choose from. We can customize to any theme!

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fun

Rentals and Services ABC Rentals www.abcrentalsmidwest.com Phone: (605) 331-3644 Location: 1701 W. 12th St, Sioux Falls Ages: All Ages Price: Varies Description: We rent: tables, tents, chairs, lighting, dishes, linens, concession equipment, staging, dance floors, candy bar, vases, and food service items (coffee pots, chaffing pans, heat lamps, etc.).

All Star Family Fun www.AllStarFamilyFun.com Phone: (605) 595-5655 Location: 3400 W. 49th Street, Sioux Falls Ages: Games for all ages Price: $75-$575 Description: Serving Sioux Falls and the surrounding area, All Star Family Fun focuses on providing clean, safe, and interactive games for the whole family. Locally owned and family run, All Star Family Fun carries bounce houses, obstacle courses, photobooths, laser tag, interactive games, and a mechanical bull. We are the perfect choice for entertainment for birthday parties, family reunions, proms/afterproms, corporate parties, town festivals, school events, church fundraisers, and daycares. Please give us a call at (605) 595-5655 to talk about how we can make your next event one that the whole family enjoys! Schools and nonprofits receive 15% discounts.

4th Annual

Birthday DIRECTORY

Bounce Around Inflatables www.bouncearoundinflatables.com Phone: (605) 310-9529 Location: Tea, SD; Right off I-29 Ages: Toddlers – Adults Price: $99 & up Description: Indoor Facility – 4-Day (weekend rentals), water slides, obstacle courses, and bounce houses, cotton candy and popcorn machines, table and chair rentals.

Face Painting by Ms. Trina www.facebook.com/facepaintingbymstrina Phone: (605) 366-3848 Location: Sioux Falls Ages: All Ages Price: Packages starting at $120 for 2 hours of face painting Description: I offer face painting for all ages, from full face designs to small tattoos and much more! I specialize in children’s parties and would love to add fun to your event. It’s not too early to book me for your summer event.

Contact me today!

continued >

we love details. and parties. make the next birthday spectacular! let us handle the details so that you can spend time with your little guest of honor.

Schedule your free consultation | 605.366.7022 Addie@TheEventCompanySD.com TheEventCompanySD

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EventCompanySD

set the stage fun

Š Julie Prairie Photography

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Birthday Parties for Your Pets!

• 3 party packages available • All parties held in 2500 sq. ft. indoor dog park For people who • Extra add-ons include party games love their pets!

Our store offers a variety of services including:

• Grooming For people who • Boarding love their pets!

• Daycare Our store offers a variety • Obedience Training of services including:

• Grooming • Boarding • Daycare • Obedience 3509 West 49th Street Training Sioux Falls, SD 57106 605-361-0006 www.minicritters.com 3509 West 49th Street Sioux Falls, SD 57106 605-361-0006 www.minicritters.com

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Locations

EmBe www.embe.org Phone: (605) 336-3660 Location: 300 W. 11th St, Sioux Falls Ages: All Ages Price: $45 for up to 3 hours in reserved aerobic room; Gym – $35 first hour and $30 each additional hour. On Saturdays and Sundays, special swimming rates are good with the rental of one of our party areas.

Swimming fee: $4.25 including tax.

Description: Parents can arrange for kids to go swimming, play basketball or volleyball, or have group games in the gym. The aerobics room is perfect for private parties like girls’ dress-up parties or for young children that you want to keep in a confined area.

fun

All American Gymnastics & Inflatables www.allamericangymastics.com Phone: (605) 334-4311 Location: 3009 S. Phillips Ave, Sioux Falls Ages: 3-12 Price: $170 plus tax for up to 12 kids ($10 for each additional kid) Description: One hour of playtime with access to: six inflatable games, six in-ground trampolines, safety foam pit, and sky swing. Every party will have the gym to themselves and 45 minutes in their own private party room following playtime.

Children’s Museum of South Dakota www.prairieplay.org Phone: (605) 692-6700 Location: 521 4th Street, Brookings, SD Ages: 1-12 Price: $250-non members, $200-members Description: Parties include 1½ hours in the museum private party room, museum admission for up to 20 guests (including adult chaperones), a themed birthday cake, refreshments and tableware, a staff member to guide themed activities, set-up and clean up, and playtime in the museum (with a ratio of 1 adult for every 5 children). Catering is available through the museum’s Café Coteau (outside catering not allowed).

Choose from first timer, grandparent, splash water play, dinosaurs, science, and art themes.

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4th Annual

Birthday © Finished Vision Photography

DIRECTORY

jump

All American Gymnastics & Inflatables www.allamericangymastics.com

around May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

fun Locations (cont.)

photo courtesy of Kara Weber

Galaxy Gaming www.thegalaxygaming.com Phone: (605) 271-0996 Location: 3801 W. 34th Street Suite 105, Sioux Falls (Right behind Chevyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Ages: 6 or older Price: Parties start at $12 per person; Gaming rates $4 per hour or 3 hours for $10 Description: Laser tag indoor arena, computer and console gaming center, individuals welcome!

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May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum of Natural History www.greatzoo.org Phone: (605) 367-8313 ext. 149 Location: Indoor Education Classroom Ages: 12 and under Price: $225 for Zoo members, $250 for non-members Description: Our ZOOper Birthday Party package includes all day admission for up to 12 guests, rental space for two hours, a large bucket of feed for the animals in the Hy-Vee Face-to-Face Farm, a visit from an animal ambassador, 12 cupcakes or a 16 inch cookie cake, 12 beverages, Zoo-themed tableware and table covers, and 12 party favor bags.

Museum of Visual Materials www.sfmvm.com Phone: (605) 271-9500 Location: 500 N. Main Ave, Sioux Falls Ages: 3 years and up Price: Starting at $200 Description: The Museum of Visual Materials offers Imagination Playground, big blue blocks in many unique shapes and sizes to create your very own playground.

Lego Creation Station is stocked with tons of Legos and a Lego table ready to start building. MoVM also offers an optional Arts and Craft session. Call for availability and details.

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4th Annual

Birthday DIRECTORY

37 photo courtesy of Kara Weber

fun

Sanford Wellness Center www.sanfordwellness.com Phone: (605) 328-1600 Location: 4201 S. Oxbow Ave, Sioux Falls Ages: All Ages Price: $50-$100 depending on party Description: We offer a Main Pool party, Private Pool party, kids Zumba party or Walleyball party. All parties include time in our cafe for gift opening and cake. Wellness Center can provide the cake for an extra fee.

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

fun Sioux Falls Parks & Recreation www.siouxfallsparks.org Phone: See below.

Location: Five Sioux Falls Locations Kenny Anderson CC, 3701 E. Third Street, (605) 978-6924 Kuehn CC, 2801 S. Valley View Road, (605) 978-6926 MariCar CC, 400 N. Valley View Road, (605) 978-6928 Morningside CC, 2400 S. Bahnson Avenue, (605) 978-6930 Oyate CC, 2421 W. 15th Street, (605) 978-6932 Ages: All Ages Price: Free for non-profits.

Nominal charge. Call for details.

Description: Each community center has at least one large meeting room.

Meeting rooms are equipped with tables, chairs, dry erase boards, TV with DVD/VHS (upon request), and coffee pots (upon request). Centers are Wi-Fi accessible. Please call a community center for availability.

4th Annual

Birthday DIRECTORY

Locations (cont.)

Sioux Falls Canaries www.sfcanaries.com Phone: (605) 336-6060 Location: Sioux Falls Arena Ages: 1-12 Price: $99 Description: Spend your child’s birthday at the Birdcage with Cagey and the Canaries. Each package comes with 10 tickets, 10 hot dogs, 10 sodas, and 10 Culver’s custard tokens plus special gifts for the birthday child!

un

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Specializing in all things Family Fun!

ALL STAR family

Thunder Road www.thunderroad.info Phone: (605) 334-4181 Location: 201 N. Kiwanis Ave, Sioux Falls Ages: All Ages Price: Packages from $10/person. You must call one or more days in advance of the party to qualify for the group rate.

Description: Thunder Road will ensure that your birthday party will be the most talked about event of the year! With a variety of packages, attractions include go karts, mini golf, a brand new family roller coaster, laser tag, laser maze, tilta-whirl, batting cages, bumper boats, euro bungy trampoline and water wars.

Picnic shelters and parking are FREE! Call (605) 334-4181 to book your Thunder Road Birthday. Visit us online at our website or on Facebook at www.

Facebook.com/ThunderRoadSiouxFalls!

LLC

Event Rentals, Bounce Houses, Combo Units Obstacle Courses, Interactive Games

605-595-5655

25

$

OFF

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facebook.com/ allstarfamilyfun

Bring this ad with you for $25 off your first All Star Family Fun rental!

New Rentals only. Not valid with any other specials or promotions.

Must book or reserve rental by 7/31/14 for discount.

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

make a

fun

wish

Photo courtesy of Ashley Thompson

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fun Locations (cont.)

Washington Pavilion www.washingtonpavilion.org Phone: (605) 367-6000 Location: 301 S. Main Ave, Downtown Sioux Falls Ages: 4-12 Price: Starting at $148.50 for up to 12 youth guests and 2 adults Description: Choose your own birthday learning adventure from our six fun party themes. Parties include an hour of fun, hands-on activities led by your personal party host, a private party room for you and your guests, admission to the Kirby Science Discovery Center for guests, a gift for the Birthday Girl or Boy, decorations and paper goods, set-up, and clean up. We do the work, you just have fun!

For ages 4-7: Little Princess, Dino Adventure Roar, or Pirate Pals. For ages 8-12: (Fun)-omenal Science, Glamour Girls, or Out of This World. Pavilion Birthday Parties available for booking: Fridays at 5 pm; Saturdays at 11 am and 2 pm; Sundays at 2 pm.

4th Annual

Birthday Photo courtesy of Ashley Thompson

DIRECTORY

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Wild Water West Waterpark www.wildwaterwest.com Phone: (605) 361-9313 Location: 5 miles west of Sioux Falls on 41st street Ages: All Ages Price: Special Birthday rates for day or evening passes. Must have reservations and made at least 24 hours in advance. The minimum of 5 guests is required to get birthday rates.

Description: Reserved tables for 1 hour in the Birthday Party Picnic Area, special gift for the birthday child, and includes a meal (pizza, small pop, and ice cream treat) per person.

Event Planners The Event Company www.facebook.com/ TheEventCompanySD Phone: (605) 366-7022 Location: Sioux Falls and surrounding areas Ages: All Ages Price: Varies based on Party Package Description: Let The Event Company plan a signature birthday party celebration for your family.

Each birthday party package is customizable based on the theme and includes styling, dĂŠcor, games, activities, menu planning and fun favors to take home.

The Event Company takes care of all of the details and day-of-event coordination so that you can spend time with your guests. Call for a free consultation and to learn more about how to make your celebration memorable.

Serendipitous Events www.SerendipitousEventsBy Jessica.com Phone: (605) 321-7854 Location: 2101 W 41st Street., Suite 112, Sioux Falls Ages: All Ages Price: Varies Description: As the premier event planning company in Sioux Falls we pride ourselves on our service. We offer only event planning and coordinating services; this ensures that our focus is always on our client. Our goal is to take your event, your ideas, your vision and to make it a reality, keeping your signature style.

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com |

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CELEBRATE Your Best Birthday Party EVER! For 1 hour and 45 minutes...AAGA is all yours!

Your private party will have 1 hour in the gym with up to 7 Inflatables!

• • • •

Access to select gymnastics equipment!

In-ground trampolines! Safety Foam Pit! 1 hour in the gym with select INFLATABLES! 45 minutes in a party room - to enjoy cake, food, presents, or anything you choose to bring.

• A staff member on site to ensure safety and fun!

This is all yours for $170 plus tax You may bring up to 12 children and if more than 12 children attend, it’s only $10 for each additional child. To reserve your party, there is a $50.00 non-refundable deposit which goes towards your balance.

SUMMER SCHEDULE: MAY 27 - AUGUST 14 ALL RATES INCLUDE TAX

MONDAY

TUESDAY

LITTLE ALL STARS

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

9:00-9:50

10:00-10:50

Walking to 6 years Punch Cards must be purchased (10 punches/card) do not expire 1 Card: $80

LITTLE DIPPERS

10:00-10:50 11:00-11:50 5:00-5:50 6:00-6:50 7:00-7:50

10:00-10:50 11:00-11:50 4:00-4:50 5:00-5:50 6:00-6:50

10:00-10:50 11:00-11:50 5:00-5:50 6:00-6:50 7:00-7:50

11:00-11:50 4:00-4:50 5:00-5:50 6:00-6:50

BIG DIPPERS

1 Class/week Cost: $73/mo 2 Class/week Cost: $127.75/mo

10:00-11:00 4:00-5:00 6:00-7:00

10:00-11:00 5:00-6:00 6:00-7:00

10:00-11:00 4:00-5:00 6:00-7:00

11:00-12:00 5:00-6:00 6:00-7:00

TUMBLING TYKES

11:00-11:30

11:00-11:30

BEGINNERS

10:00-11:00 5:00-6:00 6:00-7:00 7:00-8:00

10:00-11:00 11:00-12:00 4:00-5:00 6:00-7:00

10:00-11:00 6:00-7:00

11:00-12:00 4:00-5:00 5:00-6:00 6:00-7:00

3-5 yr old & potty trained 1 Class/week Cost: $69/mo 2 Class/week Cost: $120.75/mo

1 Class/week Cost: $42/mo 6-12 yr. old 1 Class/week Cost: $73/mo 2 Class/week Cost: $127.75/mo

BEGINNER BOYS

4:00-5:00

6-12 yr. old 1 Class/week Cost: $73/mo 2 Class/week Cost: $127.75/mo

ADVANCED I

Evaluation Required 1 Class/week Cost: $73/mo 2 Class/week Cost: $127.75/mo

INTERMEDIATE/ ADVANCED BOYS

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Evaluation Required 1 Class/week Cost: $73/mo 2 Class/week Cost: $127.75/mo

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

10:00-11:00 4:00-5:00 5:00-6:00 6:00-7:00

11:00-12:00 5:00-6:00 7:00-8:00

6:00-7:00

11:00-12:00 4:00-5:00 5:00-6:00 6:00-7:00

6:00-7:00 7:00-8:00

7:00-8:00

Our Inflatable Birthday Parties are full of running, jumping, swinging FUN!

All American Gymnastics Academy www.allamericangymnastics.com Don’t forget to find us on Facebook!

The annual registration fee is $25.00 for the first child and $14.00 for each additional family member. The fee is due for new and returning families at the beginning of the member’s year and is nonrefundable.

ALL RATES INCLUDE TAX

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

XCEL (Bronze/Silver)

9:30-11:00 5:30-7:00

6:00-7:30

9:30-11:00 5:30-7:00

4:30-6:00 6:00-7:30

ADV XCEL(Gold/Platinum)

7:00-9:00

LEVEL 1

9:30-11:00

5:30-7:00

11:00-12:30

6:00-7:30

LEVEL 2

5:00-7:00

9:00-11:00

5:30-7:30

9:00-11:00

11:00-12:00 4:00-5:00

6:00-7:00

7:00-8:00

Evaluation Required 1 Class/week Cost: $102/mo 2 Class/week Cost: $163.60/mo

7:00-9:00

Evaluation Required 1 Class/week Cost: $123/mo 2 Class/week Cost: $196.80/mo Evaluation Required 1 Class/week Cost: $102/mo 2 Class/week Cost: $163.20/mo Evaluation Required 1 Class/week Cost: $123/mo 2 Class/week Cost: $196.80/mo

BEGINNER TUMBLE

1 Class/week Cost: $73/mo 2 Class/week Cost: $127.75/mo

INT-ADV TUMBLE

Evaluation Required 1 Class/week Cost: $73/mo 2 Class/week Cost: $127.75/mo

OPEN GYM

8:00-9:00 (JR/SR HIGH)

4:00-5:00 (INT) 8:00-9:00 (JR/SR HIGH)

6:00-7:00 (INT)

6:00-7:00

(6-18yrs) $10 per visit Punch cards:10 punches/$80

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com |

43

Fabulous spring and summer fashion, handbags, accessories, footwear and more!

OPEN EVERY Wednesday through Saturday!

W: 10-6 • Th: 10-6 F: 10-6 • S: 10-5

311 S. Phillips Ave., Suite 101 Sioux Falls, SD • (605) 275-5720 www.lillians.com/siouxfalls www.facebook.com/lilliansofsiouxfalls

Join us for the

3rd Annual It’s All About Science Festival WHEN:

Saturday, June 14, 2014 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

WHERE:

Sanford Research Center 2301 E. 60th Street N. Sioux Falls, SD

With over 50 hands-on activities, demonstrations and exhibits, the It’s All About Science Festival is the perfect opportunity for you and your family to learn about all things science.

Doktor Kaboom! Performances 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m.

Bubbleology Performances

10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m.

Sanford Underground Research Facility Live Broadcast 2 pm Free tickets for these performances will be provided at the event check-in desk the day of the event on a first-come, first-served basis.

Event is indoors and free of charge with food vendors available.

itsallaboutscience.org

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May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

Sponsored by

Do want to see YOUR event listed HERE? Visit our website and post your event. Our print calendar’s new design matches our online calendar. For additional information about the events listed, please check our website. ‘Hood Magazine publishes the most recent information provided.

Please remember to call ahead to confirm event details.

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9:00 AM-4:00 PM Kids Craft Corner Museum of Visual Materials

Tuesday, May 6

10:00 AM-11:00 AM Homeschool Co Op Museum of Visual Materials

9:00 AM-4:00 PM Imagination Playground Museum of Visual Materials

10:00 AM-10:50 AM Little All Stars All American Gymnastics Academy Punch card purchase required Ages walking-6yrs, $80

1:00 PM-1:35 PM Preschool Storytime Main Library Preregistration Required Ages 3-5

1:00 PM-1:35 PM Preschool Storytime Ronning Library Preregistration Required Ages 3-5 3:00 PM-4:00 PM Theater Thursdays Prairie West Library

Friday, May 2 11:00 AM-11:45 AM Animals on the Amphitheatre Downtown Amphitheatre 4:00 PM-7:00 PM Pavilion Science Fair Showcase Washington Pavilion 5:00 PM-8:00 PM Pavilion Free First Fridays Washington Pavilion 6:30 PM-7:20 PM Little All Stars All American Gymnastics Academy Punch card purchase required Ages walking-6yrs, $80

Saturday, May 3 8:00 AM-1:00 PM Kids Grow Green Tomato Plant Sale Sioux Empire Farmers Market 9:00 AM-12:00 PM Build A Flower Planter Home Depot Preregistration Required Ages 5-12 10:30 AM-11:30 AM Muffins with Mommy Morningside Community Center Preregistration Required, $5

Monday, May 5 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Car Seat Program Avera Appointment Required

Wednesday, May 7 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Kids Craft Corner Museum of Visual Materials 10:00 AM-10:50 AM Little All Stars All American Gymnastics Academy Punch card purchase required Ages walking-6yrs, $80 3:00 PM-4:00 PM Worldly Wednesday Prairie West Library

Thursday, May 8 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Creating Cards Corner Museum of Visual Materials 10:05 AM-10:40 AM ToddlerTime Caille Library 10:30 AM-11:30 AM ZooCub Class: World’s Loudest Great Plains Zoo Ages 4-5, Members $11, Non-members $17 3:00 PM-4:00 PM Theater Thursdays Prairie West Library 5:30 PM-8:00 PM National Mom’s Nite Out Sioux Empire Mall 6:00 PM-7:30 PM Baby Gourmet: Homemade Baby Food 101 Sanford Center for Health and Well-being $10 per person

Friday, May 9 2:00 PM-9:00 PM The Little Things Sioux Falls Arena and Convention Center, $5 6:30 PM-7:20 PM Little All Stars All American Gymnastics Academy Punch card purchase required Ages walking-6yrs, $80

Saturday, May 10 9:00 AM-5:00 PM The Little Things Sioux Falls Arena and Convention Center, $5

fun

9:00 AM-4:00 PM Lego Creation Station Museum of Visual Materials

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10:00am-11:00am Flower Delivery Truck Lowe’s Preregistration Required 11:00am-12:00pm Mother’s Day Storytime Barnes & Noble 11:00 AM-7:00 PM Cinco de Mayo Falls Park Fiesta Falls Park 7:00 PM-10:00 PM Parent’s Night Out All American Gymnastics Academy Preregistration Required $20-members, $15-for second child, $10-for third child; $25-non members

Monday, May 12 10:00 AM-10:20 AM Story Time Museum of Visual Materials

Tuesday, May 13 10:00 AM-10:30 AM Storytime Child’s Play Toys

Wednesday, May 14 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Lego Creation Station Museum of Visual Materials 10:00 AM-10:50 AM Little All Stars All American Gymnastics Academy Punch card purchase required Ages walking-6yrs, $80

Thursday, May 15 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Imagination Playground Museum of Visual Materials 10:00 AM-10:50 AM Little All Stars All American Gymnastics Academy Punch card purchase required Ages walking-6yrs, $80

WOW! Check out our online calendar for additional events!

What to Do?

Friday, May 16 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Lego Creation Station Museum of Visual Materials

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

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Friday, May 16 (cont.)

6:30 PM-7:20 PM Little All Stars All American Gymnastics Academy Punch card purchase required Ages walking-6yrs, $80 9:00 PM-11:00 PM SkyMania Sky Zone, $16

Saturday, May 17 10:00 AM-11:30 AM New Baby in Our Family Class Avera Preregistration Required $10/family 10:00 AM-12:00 PM Kidgits Music Mania Sioux Empire Mall $5/child Free for Kidgit Members 11:00am-12:00pm Oh, the Places You’ll Go! Barnes & Noble 11:00 AM-1:00 PM Downtown Duck Derby Downtown Amphitheatre

Monday, May 19 6:30 PM-8:30 PM Grandparents Class Sanford Mom2Be Center Preregistration Required $20

WOW! Check out our online calendar for additional events!

Tuesday, May 20

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10:00 AM-10:30 AM Storytime Child’s Play Toys 3:45 PM-4:45 PM Afterschool Art Activity Museum of Visual Materials

Wednesday, May 21 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Kids Craft Corner Museum of Visual Materials 10:00 AM-10:50 AM Little All Stars All American Gymnastics Academy Punch card purchase required Ages walking-6yrs, $80

Thursday, May 22 10:45 AM-10:45 AM ZooCub Class: Soft and Fluffy Great Plains Zoo Ages 0-2 Members $7, Non-members $12 11:15 AM-12:15 PM ZooCub Class: Nine, Ten, Animal Dens Great Plains Zoo Ages 2-3 Members $9, Non-members $15

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

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Friday, May 23 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Lego Creation Station Museum of Visual Materials 11:00 AM-8:00 PM Wild Water West Opening Day Wild Water West See website for detailed pricing 6:30 PM-7:20 PM Little All Stars All American Gymnastics Academy Punch card purchase required Ages walking-6yrs, $80 9:00 PM-11:00 PM SkyMania Sky Zone, $16

Saturday, May 24 9:00 AM-9:50 AM Little All Stars All American Gymnastics Academy Punch card purchase required Ages walking-6yrs, $80 10:00 AM-10:45 AM ZooCub Class: Soft and Fluffy Great Plains Zoo Ages 0-2 Members $7, Non-members $12 10:15 AM-11:00 AM Story Time Washington Pavilion 11:15 AM-12:15 PM ZooCub Class: Nine, Ten, Animal Dens Great Plains Zoo Ages 2-3 Members $9, Non-members $15

Monday, May 26 10:00 AM-11:00 AM Day Play Museum of Visual Materials

Tuesday, May 27 9:00 AM-12:00 AM Pint-Sized Science: Dino Discovery Camp Washington Pavilion Preregistration Required Ages 3-5, $56 10:00 AM-10:30 AM Storytime Child’s Play Toys 1:00 PM-4:00 PM Pint-Sized Science: Dino Discovery Camp Washington Pavilion Preregistration Required Ages 3-5, $56

Wednesday, May 28 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Lego Creation Station Museum of Visual Materials

10:30 AM-11:30 AM Honest is Best Barnes & Noble

Thursday, May 29 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Imagination Playground Museum of Visual Materials 9:30 AM-11:30 AM Toddler Time Sky Zone, $4 4:00 PM-11:00 PM RIBFEST W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds & Expo Center, $10 7:00 PM-7:30 PM Noise Guy Caille Library

Friday, May 30 11:00 AM-11:00 PM RIBFEST W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds & Expo Center Free from 11am-3pm $15

Sunday, June 1 11:00 AM-3:00 PM RIBFEST-KIDZFest W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds & Expo Center Free from 11am-3pm

Monday, June 2 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Car Seat Program Avera Appointment Required 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Imagination Playground Museum of Visual Materials 9:00 AM-12:00 PM Pottery Play Summer Camp Washington Pavilion Preregistration Required Ages 6-7, $105 2:30 PM-4:00 PM FuNdAy MoNdAy Caille Library

Tuesday, June 3 10:00 AM-10:30 AM Storytime Child’s Play Toys 3:15 PM-5:00PM Movie Tuesday Ronning Library

Wednesday, June 4 1:30 PM-2:00 PM The Watering Can: A Peter Rabbit Puppet Show Prairie West Library 6:30 PM-8:30 PM Breastfeeding Preparation Sanford Mom2Be Center Preregistration Required

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Thursday, June 5 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Imagination Playground Museum of Visual Materials 10:00 AM-11:00 AM Homeschool Co Op Museum of Visual Materials

Friday, June 6 11:00 AM-11:45 AM Animals on the Amphitheatre Downtown Amphitheatre 2:00 PM-2:30 PM The Watering Can: A Peter Rabbit Puppet Show Brandon Library Ages 3+ 5:00 PM-8:00 PM Pavilion Free First Fridays Washington Pavilion 6:00 PM-8:30 PM Horse & Carriage Rides Downtown Sioux Falls $5/rider

Saturday, June 7 9:00 AM-12:00 PM Build a Riding Lawn Mower Home Depot Preregistration Required 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Birthing With Confidence: All Day Session Sanford Health Preregistration Required, $100 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Imagination Playground Museum of Visual Materials 9:00 AM-3:00 PM Zippity Zoo Day Great Plains Zoo This event is free with paid Zoo admission.

8:30 PM-10:30 PM Moonlight Movies Fawick Park

Monday, June 9 2:30 PM-4:00 PM FuNdAy MoNdAy Caille Library

Tuesday, June 10 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Lego Creation Station Museum of Visual Materials 10:00 AM-10:30 AM Storytime Child’s Play Toys 10:00 AM-10:35 AM Family Storytime Hartford Library

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10:05 AM-11:05 AM Wee Read and Play Alphabet Train Prairie West Library

9:00 AM-1:00 PM

1:00 PM-2:00 PM Summer Explorers Oak View Library

Royalwood Dairy-Ode Family Farm, Brandon Stop by ‘Hood’s Booth and say Hi!

7th Annual Day on the Farm at Royalwood Dairy

3:00 PM-4:00 PM Take Home Tuesday Ronning Library

9:00 AM-5:00 PM

It’s All About Science Festival

Wednesday, June 11 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Imagination Playground Museum of Visual Materials 10:15 AM-10:45 AM The Watering Can: A Peter Rabbit Puppet Show Hartford Library

Thursday, June 12 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Creating Cards Corner Museum of Visual Materials 10:05 AM-9:40 AM Family Storytime Ronning Library 10:15 AM-10:50 AM Double Play Main Library

Sunday, June 15

Monday, June 16 9:00 AM-12:00 PM Pottery Play Summer Camp Washington Pavilion Preregistration Required Ages 6-7, $105 10:05 AM-11:05 AM Wee Read and Play Alphabet Train Prairie West Library

7:00 PM-9:00 PM The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Sioux Falls Orpheum Theater Center , $10

Friday, June 13

1:00 PM-2:00 PM Summer Explorers Oak View Library 3:45 PM-4:45 PM Afterschool Art Activity Museum of Visual Materials 7:00 PM-7:45 PM Mad Science of Iowa Caille Library

9:15 AM-9:45 AM Books & Babies Main Library

Thursday, June 19

9:00 PM-11:00 PM SkyMania Sky Zone, $16

1:30 PM-3:30 PM New Baby & Me Sanford Health

Saturday, June 14 9:00 AM-12:00 AM Kids Triathlon Wall Lake $40 per athlete prior to the race; $50 for on-site registration on Friday

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8:30 PM-10:30 PM Moonlight Movies Fawick Park

Tuesday, June 17

7:00 PM-7:35 PM Pajama Storytime Brandon Library

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2:00 PM-4:00 PM The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Sioux Falls Orpheum Theater Center , $10

10:45 AM-11:20 AM Family Storytime Caille Library

go to

Sanford Research Center Stop by ‘Hood’s Booth and say Hi!

fun

10:30am-12:30pm Theater Thursday-Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2 Prairie West Library

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Friday, June 20 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Imagination Playground Museum of Visual Materials 6:00 PM-8:30 PM Horse & Carriage Rides Downtown Sioux Falls $5/rider 7:00 PM-9:00 PM The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Sioux Falls Orpheum Theater Center , $10

WOW! Check out our online calendar for additional events!

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9:00 PM-11:00 PM SkyMania Sky Zone, $16

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

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WOW! Check out our online calendar for additional events!

Saturday, June 21

10:15 AM-10:50 AM Jonathan May, Comedy Magician Oak View Library

Wednesday, June 25

Thursday, June 26

6:00 PM-8:30 PM Horse & Carriage Rides Downtown Sioux Falls $5/rider 7:00 PM-10:00 PM Kids Night Out, Star Performance Preregistration Required $20/child

Saturday, June 28 8:30 PM-10:30 PM Moonlight Movies Fawick Park

Monday, June 30 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Lego Creation Station Museum of Visual Materials 2:30 PM-4:00 PM FuNdAy MoNdAy Caille Library

FREE THIS SUMMER?

‘hood

March 2012

TM

ne.com

parent 12• child • family 20

gazine.com

September 2011

mer umoo S ‘h CAMPS d Is Sioux Emp Playing a Part?

9:15 AM-9:45 AM Books & Babies Main Library

9:00 AM-4:00 PM Lego Creation Station Museum of Visual Materials

7:00 PM-7:35 PM Jonathan May, Comedy Magician Caille Library

NGResource LYI BUL Parenting ire’s Child Your

Friday, June 27

9:00 AM-4:00 PM Imagination Playground Museum of Visual Materials

1:00 PM-4:00 PM Pottery Play Summer Camp Washington Pavilion Preregistration Required Ages 6-7, $105

www.thehoodma

3:00 PM-3:35 PM Jonathan May, Comedy Magician Brandon Library

6:00 PM-7:00 PM Quick and Easy Meals Cooking Class Featuring Beef Sanford Center for Health and Well-being $10/person or $25 for a group up to five people

10:00 AM-11:00 AM Day Play Museum of Visual Materials

zi

10:15 AM-10:50 AM Jonathan May, Comedy Magician Main Library

1:00 PM-2:00 PM Summer Explorers Oak View Library

9:00 AM-4:00 PM Car Seat Program Avera Appointment Required

dmaga

All Ages

10:05 AM-11:05 AM Wee Read and Play Alphabet Train Prairie West Library

Monday, June 23

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10:00 AM-10:30 AM Storytime Child’s Play Toys

2:00 PM-4:00 PM The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Sioux Falls Orpheum Theater Center , $10

www.t

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9:00 AM-4:00 PM Lego Creation Station Museum of Visual Materials

Sunday, June 22

• family

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Tuesday, June 24

8:30 PM-10:30 PM Moonlight Movies Fawick Park

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INTERN NEEDED! We are looking for a summer intern to help with sales, event planning, marketing, design, etc.

If you have an interest in publishing and want to gain experience we’d love to talk to you!

Email your resume to: steff@thehoodmagazine.com

Scholarship available.

Contact: Steffanie Liston-Holtrop 605-366-1479 or by email at steff@thehoodmagazine.com

TM

on the WEB

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Visit the ‘Hood website For even more conTent and Information

find us at www.thehoodmagazine.com

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

Open the world of music Looking for an alternative to

group music class? Open the world of music to your child

Contact us before June 1 and receive your first class FREE!

NEW THIS YEAR!

Private party pool rentals at Drake Springs or Laurel Oak Family Aquatic Centers!

Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 12 noon, May 31—August 2 Get Your Electronic Swim Passes!

May 19 to July 25: Monday—Friday, 1 to 5 p.m.

Kenny Anderson, Kuehn, and Morningside Community Centers May 24, 25, 31, and June 1, 7, 8: Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Kuehn and Morningside Community Centers

with a specialized curriculum of piano and other musical skills in a one-on-one setting.

March 10 to July 25: Monday—Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Park Office, 100 East Sixth Street (Closed May 26 and July 4)

Inspiring curiosity, enthusiasm and skills for chidren as

Save your key fobs each year!

Key fob reactivates upon renewal.

Key fob replacement will be $5.

young as three years old.

www.siouxfalls.org/parks 605-367-8222

keysforkidssf@gmail.com Find us on Facebook

Swipe & Swim!

MUSIC • DISCOVERY • FUN

CAPRA Accredited

DTP/O264332.ai

MER CAMPS SUM@ Scape Life

(Formerly ild Ch ren’s Care)

BREAKFAST CLUB** Tues./Fri., June 3-27, 4-5 pm; Cost: $200; Description: Speech-language 7:45-8:45 am; Description: A group setting to overcome picky eating and improve oral motor skills. pathologists help develop clear articulation of speech sounds.

LET’S TALK** Aug. 11-14, 9 am-noon; SOCIAL SKILLS* Dates & Times: TBD; Description: Children will focus on peer Cost: $350; Description: Group experiences to interactions while using voice output devices. build social awareness and interaction skills.

HELPING HANDS** Dates & Times: TBD; HANDWRITING* Pre-K: Aug. 11-13, 8:30-10:30 Description: Constraint-induced movement am, Cost: $150; Printing: Aug. 4-6 & 11-13,1-3 pm, therapy for children with hemiplegia.

Cost: $250; Cursive: Aug. 11-13, 4-6 pm, POWER MOBILITY** Dates & Times: TBD; Cost: $150; Description: South Dakota’s only Description: Experience the latest technology practitioners certified in Handwriting Without in power mobility.

Tears® help kids develop handwriting skills.

SPEECH XTREME* Mon./Wed., July 7-30,

EARLY LANGUAGE LEARNERS**

June 2-5, 8-9 am; Description: Preschoolers develop speech and language skills through play and everyday activities.

Call (605) 444-97 00 for details.

* Scholarships available for private pay camps. ** Insurance coverage may apply to medical-based camps.

Formerly Children’s Care 1020 W. 18th St., Sioux Falls, SD 57104

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com |

49

family

by Terra Koupal, Agent, American Family Insurance

Life Insurance: Living Benefits When most people hear the words “life insurance,” their minds often go right to death. Life insurance has long been thought of as a need when loved ones have passed, and this thought remains true. However, there are many more life protection options that continue to have living benefits. These life protection policies have become more popular for able parents and grandparents who wish to give their children and grandchildren an option that can be argued as more valuable than even a savings plan or a CD. I have had many clients come to me with questions about how they can help their child or grandchild be successful when planning financially. This is especially true when it comes to the child’s education and planning for a family. The most viable option is through life insurance, which allows for flexibility as your needs change through life. Some parents and grandparents want to have a plan that is paid off in a certain number of years, and some want the child to be able to take over their policy when they reach a certain age

50 | May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

of maturity. Each of these options can be achieved at price points that can be affordable for your family and specific need.

The affordability factor is what, I feel, deters most people from purchasing life insurance to protect their families. Most people are afraid that the options are out of their price range; however, this is far from the truth. There are quite a few options based off of everyone’s budget. It’s important that you can be honest with your agent on what your goals are, and how much you can afford. Your agent should be mindful of what your goals are, and want to maximize these goals, with every budget.

It’s all about working with someone you trust to invest in your legacy. Take the time to write down your goals, and work with your agent on a plan that will help you be successful. We all have different goals in mind, and it’s important that you plan ahead to achieve your goals. Life insurance is a vehicle proven to stand the test of time, and if you invest at a young age, your options are truly what you make of them. n

What’s Your Plan?

“Sweet Fire” Porterhouse Pork Chops

ESTATE PLAN CHECKLIST Things to Gather and Consider for Your Estate Plan:

p p p p

L ist of heirs (spouse, children, grandchildren, pets, etc.)

Potential trustees for your trust estate List of your assets

California Office 92 Corporate Park, Suite C-232 Irvine, CA 92606 South Dakota Office 4305 S. Louise Ave, Suite 110 Sioux Falls, SD 57106

Bring the heat and cook your pork like a steak – medium or medium rare for a tender, juicy, delicious chop every time.

Call Cath y for mor informat e ion, today!

P otential guardians for your children

Find ideas at PorkBeInspired.com KNECHT LAW OFFICES, P.C. Cathy A. Knecht, Esq. Email: cathy@knechtlawoffices.com Phone & Fax: 888-501-5631 ©2014 National Pork Board, Des Moines, IA USA. This message funded by America’s Pork Producers and the Pork Checkoff.

SALES

PERSON WANTED

Full or part time opportunities available!

Join the growing ‘Hood team! parent • child • family

www.thehoodmagazine.com

Please inquire with Steffanie Holtrop at 366-1479 or steff@thehoodmagazine.com May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com |

51

LifeScape Now Offers

Psychology Services Dr. Aimee Deliramich

We welcome Clinical Psychology Resident Aimee Deliramich, PhD. Aimee provides psychotherapy to children, youth, adults and families.

Call us at 444-9700.

1020 W. 18th St., Sioux Falls, SD 57104

EXPLORE A FRESH PERSPECTIVE ON FOOD Join Us for a Tour of Local Farms Meet the farmers who grow your food. Visit

Formerly Children’s Care

Farms After Five Tour JULY 15, 2014

agunited.org/moms-day-out for more information and to sign up for the tour of your choice.

Mom’s Day Out on the Farm JULY 23, 2014

52 | May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

Schut Family family

© Olivia Walter Photography

by Tim Schut, CMFC, Financial Advisor, Investment Centers of America, Inc.

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visit

The Role of “Ice Cream” in Your Family’s Budget $241,080. According to a recent article by Forbes Magazine, this is the amount it will cost to raise a child born in 2012. The story went on to tell that those families earning more than $105,000 can expect to spend nearly $400,000 raising a child. Those are big numbers!

As a parent of three children, I must say that I’m not surprised. When you factor in the costs of diapers, food, toys, and the big one – daycare, it is easy to exceed $1,000 per month per child. And that is just covering the basics.

Parents often ask me these questions as well: •H ow do we save for our kid’s college?

• Do we have enough life insurance in the event we passed away?

• Should we have life insurance on our children?

• Now that we have a family, do we need a will?

• How do we save to take the family on vacations?

• What about paying for those weddings down the road? (I have three daughters – this one scares me.)

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for m budgetinogrefoon costs of child r the care.

No one likes the word “budget,” but as your family grows, it is important to track where you are spending your money. They key to budgeting is ice cream. Ice cream, you ask? Think of your monthly expenses as a value meal at a fast food restaurant. Your mortgage or rent is similar to the burger – a tangible, fixed cost. So is your car payment or student loans – think of them as your fries. However, it is the ice cream that gets you.

Why? Because the ice cream fills in the cracks and melts away. Ice cream in your budget looks like: ATM withdrawals, coffee shops, gas stations, and those frequent stops to the baby section of your local discount store. It is imperative to track your “ice cream” in order to have control over your budget.

Goals are directly related to your budget, too. Both individually and as a family, think about and write down what you want to accomplish in the next one, three, five, and ten years in the following areas: Personal, Professional, Family, and Health. Review these goals often, and work with professionals to help you develop a strategy to achieve them. Your accountant, attorney, banker, fitness coach, and financial advisor can provide you with the ideas and accountability needed to reach your goals. n

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com |

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recipes from the farm to your table

Special section brought to you by:

eats

good eats

know?

DIDYOU FEATURED

Animal care is the first priority for farmers each and every day.

Farmer

MEET THE

Greenway FAMILY

My husband, Brad, and I have a diversified family farm west of Mitchell, where we grow corn, soybeans, wheat, and alfalfa. We also take care of 180 beef cows and raise 10,000 pigs each year in two modern pig barns.

Up until recently, I had always worked both on and off the farm. Last July, I was able to realize a goal of mine – I resigned from my full time job as an investment assistant and became a full time farmer! Even though I’ve always been involved on the farm, it has been a nice change to be able to devote more time to our operation.

As a caretaker for pigs and cattle, naturally, animal care is our first priority each and every day. We strive

to keep the animals healthy so we can provide safe and nutritious food for your dinner tables.

Since I have the opportunity to work with animals every day, I am often asked questions about raising pork and beef. The question I am probably asked the most often is whether or not we give our animals antibiotics.

Brad and I take our role as animal caregivers very seriously and always try to reduce the need for antibiotics.

We do this by vaccinating our animals to prevent illnesses and by providing fresh water and air, nutritious feed and comfortable shelter for them.

However, if our animals still happen to get sick, it is our moral obligation to treat their illness, just like we gave our children medicine when they were sick.

Whenever antibiotics are used, we (and all farmers) have to adhere to strict withdrawal times to make sure the appropriate time has passed between the last treatment and when the animal’s meat can enter the food chain. This

Peggy

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There are six cuts of pork that meet the USDA’s guidelines for lean meat: pork tenderloin, pork boneless top loin chop, pork top loin roast, pork center loin chop, pork sirloin roast and pork rib chop. ensures any antibiotics administered have left the animal’s body prior to harvest. We monitor this very carefully on our farm, and this is also monitored by our partners in meat processing facilities. As a mom and a new grandma, I would never want something to enter the food chain that I wouldn’t feel comfortable giving to my family.

Like most families, our gatherings revolve around lots of visiting and lots of food. Even though our children are grown up, we are always glad when they make the trip home to spend time with us. We especially love spending time with our five-monthold granddaughter, Nora.

When it comes to food, our family loves to try new things, and our favorites include anything we can cook on the grill. The recent spring weather means we can enjoy some of our favorite grilling recipes, and I am happy to share some of them with you.

These recipes are sure to be familyapproved. Whether you’re cooking for your family at home or preparing food for a birthday party, I would encourage you to give them a try!

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

good eats

eats

recipes from the farm to your table

Peggy’s

RECIPES

pork, onion flakes, corn flakes, salt, pepper, and egg. In a small bowl, stir together ketchup, brown sugar, and dry mustard. Spoon 2 tablespoons of the ketchup mixture into the pork and mix well. Spray muffin tin with vegetable cooking spray. Form 6 meatballs and place in muffin tin.

Coat the top of each meatball with the remaining ketchup mixture.

Bake for 30 minutes at 375 degrees, until nicely glazed and internal temperature is 160 degrees. Serves 6.

Serving Suggestions

PORK ALL STAR of MEATBALLS SouthCourtesy Dakota Pork

Fun for kids to make—and eat, too!

These meatballs are oversized and cook easily in the oven. Scalloped potatoes and buttered green beans make the meal complete.

Ingredients • • • • • • • • •

1 lb ground pork 1 tbsp onion flakes 3 /4 c corn flakes, crushed 1 /2 tsp salt 1 /8 tsp ground black pepper 1 egg 1 /4 c ketchup 3 tbsp brown sugar 1 tsp dry mustard

EASY SAUSAGE AND MUSHROOM PIZZA Ingredients

Courtesy of South Dakota Pork

• 8 oz bulk Italian sausage, cooked, crumbled, and drained • 1 10-oz pizza crust (about 12-inches), thin • 1/2 c pizza sauce • 2 c provolone cheese, shredded (8 oz) • 1 (4 oz) can mushroom pieces, drained

Directions Heat oven to 450 degrees. Spread pizza crust evenly with sauce, one cup cheese, sausage, mushroom pieces, and remaining cup of cheese.

Bake directly on oven rack for 10 minutes, or until crust is crisp and cheese is melted. Serves 4-5.

Serving Suggestions This pizza practically makes itself when you cook and crumble your favorite Italian sausage ahead of time and store in the refrigerator. The rest of the ingredients come straight from the cupboard. Serve wedges of pizza with apple wedges, sliced cucumbers, carrots, and celery sticks.

Directions Heat oven to 375 degrees. In a large bowl, combine ground

PORK & PEPPERONI PIZZA BURGERS Ingredients

Courtesy of South Dakota Pork

Directions

In a medium bowl, stir together • 1 lb ground pork ground pork, pepperoni, bread • 1/2 c pepperoni, chopped (about 2 oz) crumbs, pizza sauce, and oregano.

• 1/2 c bread crumbs, Italian-style Shape mixture into 6 patties. Grill or dry broil burgers for 5 minutes per side, • 1/2 c pizza sauce, prepared until an instant read thermometer • 1/2 tsp oregano leaves, dried reads 160 degrees. Place burgers on • 1 c mozzarella cheese, shredded buns; top each patty with cheese.

(4 oz) Serves 6.

• 6 sandwich buns Serving Suggestions: This recipe is a hit with kids. They are sure to love the burger and pepperoni combination.

Ask them to help with mixing the ingredients and forming the patties. Serve with carrots and celery sticks.

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Garlic-Mustard Butter

Bacon-Wrapped Pork Medallions with Garlic-Mustard Butter Courtesy of Ingredients

South Dakota Pork

• 1 pork tenderloin, 1 to 1-1/4 lb • 4 slices bacon, hickory-smoked • Wooden picks • Salt and pepper • Garlic-mustard butter

Directions Cut tenderloin in 8 slices (medallions) approximately 1- to 1 1/4-inch wide. Place two slices (medallions) together and wrap bacon slice around both pieces to hold together to make pork “mignons.” Secure with wooden pick. Repeat with remaining pork medallions and bacon. Season both sides with salt and pepper, and spray lightly with cooking spray. Broil or grill per directions below. Serves 4.

Directions for Broiling: Preheat broiler to 500 degrees. Broil pork mignons about 4 inches from heat source for 4-5 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 145 degrees, followed by a 3-minute rest time.

Directions for Pan-broiling: Heat skillet or grill pan over high heat; add pork mignons. Lower heat to medium-high; cook (uncovered) for 4 minutes or until nicely browned.

Turn; cook an additional 4-5 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145 degrees, followed by a 3-minute rest time.

Ingredients • 1/4 c butter (1/2 stick), softened to room temperature • 2 tsp Dijon-style mustard • 1 clove garlic, minced Directions: In a small bowl, stir together ingredients until well mixed. Wrap in waxed paper to shape like a stick of butter. Chill while pork is cooking. When ready to serve, cut into fourths and top each pork mignon before serving.

Personal Beef Pizzas Courtesy of Ingredients

South Dakota Beef

• 1 recipe Italian-Style Beef Sausage (recipe follows) • 1 1/2 c pizza sauce • 4 round, thin sandwich breads, any variety, split • 1/2 c shredded mozzarella cheese Toppings: • Sliced black or green olives • Sliced red or yellow bell peppers • Sliced red onions (optional)

eats

Directions for Grilling: Preheat grill to 400 degrees.

Place pork mignons directly over high heat. Close grill lid; grill for 4-5 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 145 degrees, followed by a 3-minute rest time.

minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

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Italian-Style Beef Sausage: Combine 1 pound ground beef, 1 teaspoon fennel seed, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon coriander, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon paprika, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper in large bowl, mixing lightly but thoroughly. Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Add beef mixture; cook 8 to 10 minutes, breaking into 1/2-inch crumbles and stirring occasionally.

(Cooking times are for fresh or thoroughly thawed ground beef.

Ground beef should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160 degrees.

Color is not a reliable indicator of ground beef doneness.) Makes 2 1/2 cups crumbles.

Directions Prepare Italian-Style Beef Sausage.

Stir in pizza sauce; cook 2 to 3 minutes or until heated through, stirring frequently. Keep warm and set aside. Place sandwich thins, cut sides up, on rack of broiler pan. Spoon equal amounts of beef mixture on each bread half. Evenly sprinkle with cheese and toppings, as desired. Place pizzas on rack of broiler pan so surface of cheese is 3 to 4 inches from heat. Broil 4 to 5

Peggy Greenway is a wife, mother, farmer, and South Dakota CommonGround volunteer from Mitchell, South Dakota. To learn more about her life on the farm, connect with her on Twitter @GreenwayPork.

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

parent

RSVP Etiquette There is nothing like the sparkle in child’s eye when they receive the coveted birthday invitation. Some slowly tear at a corner with great anticipation, while others can barely hold back and rip it open within seconds.

Some gleefully carry it about, and some place in the center of the fridge. As you read the instructions of the who, the what, and the where, on the bottom there is almost always a space that reads RSVP. RSVP stands for répondez s’il vous plaît, which simply means please respond.

I have been on the opposite side of that RSVP, eagerly waiting for the final count. Some guests respond after the RSVP date, while others give no response at all. It’s frustrating when someone does RSVP and then is a no show, but the worst is when no communication has been made. Suddenly, there is an extra guest or two and no favors or extra food.

RSVP etiquette seems to be something of the past, but I say let’s bring classy back. All it takes is a quick text or email, as calling with little ones around can at times be cumbersome. We are in the age of technology, so there is no reason not to at least respond with a quick “we’ll be there” or “I’m afraid we cannot attend.” It’s really about respect – respect for the host/hostess, the countless hours of preparation, and appreciation for the invitation. Lives can be busied by work and activities, but let’s remember the

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children know who they invited. Lack of RSVP etiquette can result in hurt feelings for children and adults.

Now, I’m not saying I have never forgotten to RSVP and found the invitation a week later at the bottom of my purse, because I have, sadly more than once. However, I did quickly remedy the situation and connected with the parent that day, and each time I was greeted with grace.

After 12 years of birthdays and triple the amount of parties I have learned to send out my invitations at least two weeks prior to the party date. On my invitations I include information about personalization of party favors, décor, and crafts. I always put an RSVP date, especially when something is made by hand or we are paying per child. I also attach a description of the party so everyone knows what to expect.

About a week before the party, I have been known to call and check if I haven’t heard back from an intended guest.

RSVP, because you don’t want to be on the opposite side with twenty-two goodie bags and only five party guests.

RSVP, because it’s timeless and classic, and who doesn’t want to be timeless and classic? n

Photo courtesy of Amity Shay Neff

by Amity Shay Neff

Stay Ahead of

THE CURVE

Kids can lose up to 2-1/2 months of learning in the summer. Stay ahead of the curve with Sylvanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s summer sessions!

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MMMULTIVITAMINS For this great tasting recipe and more visit BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com sdbeef.org

Find us on May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com |

59

parent

Affordable Birthday Celebrations

Our family has been doing quite a bit of celebrating lately!

We’ve celebrated five birthdays in the past month alone.

Birthday celebrations don’t need to be elaborate, time consuming, and expensive! All you really need is a cake, a few friends, and a gift or two and you’re set. I personally love to help create happy memories that will have a lasting impression, so I try to make each birthday different and memorable.

For us, in addition to a family birthday party, our birthday activities usually include a couple special outings (free or affordable) throughout the week prior to their actual birthday and picking up a free treat or two from various restaurants around town!

Barnes & Noble Cafe, Oh My Cupcakes!, Caribou Coffee, Starbucks, Cold Stone Creamery, Juice Stop, Noodles & Company, IHOP, HuHot Mongolian Grill, and many other places around town offer free treats or discounts for you on your birthday. Just hop online and sign up at least two weeks ahead of time for their various clubs and rewards programs and you’re set! Once you grab your free treat(s) on your birthday, head on over to Scheels to receive a free token to ride the Ferris wheel!

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May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

When it comes to planning a birthday party, you’ll start by first planning a theme. One way to save on the theme is to just pick a color and go from there. Next you’ll need to work out a budget for decorations, party favors, and food. This can be as little as $20! Always remember that you are doing this for fun and to create memories. Let the birthday boy or girl decide on the menu, no matter how wacky it is! The more decisions your child gets to make in the process, the more memorable it will be.

If you decide to go a little more elaborate than just a cake, I suggest that you keep the guest list to a minimum so that you’re able to stick within the your budget. Below I’ve compiled some tips on how to save on favors, food, and party activities.

Birthday Party Savings Reuse as many birthday party decorations as you possibly can. If I have leftover items that could be used at a future party, I throw them into a party storage bin.

Cut up your own fruits and vegetables rather than purchasing a pre-made platter at the store.

© Kristi Shanks Photography

by Shaina Herrmann, http://shainasdeals.com

Learn how to bake your own cakes. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be able to personalize the cake to better suit your theme and your child can take part in the decorating, making the experience even more memorable.

Chocolate dipped strawberries, sâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;more ingredients, and handdipped pretzel sticks are all cheap and easy treats that you can have out for the party or easily package up in cellophane bags and hand out as favors.

For as little as $5, you or your children can create your own party favor bags/treats. Decorate paper bags with letter stickers, glitter, ribbon, or whatever you can find to match your theme. Fill the bag with homemade treats, small 10-cent toys, or candy!

Bake cookies or other baked goods and individually wrap them in paper CD sleeves with string that matches your party colors. You could also use glassine bags with washi/ craft tape.

You could skip party favors altogether and have kids create their own craft favors.

Cheap, colorful, disposable tablecloths can be used, or you could invest in one reusable multicolored tablecloth that you can use for future celebrations.

Decorate with photos! Move canvas prints or large framed photos of your child into the party area for the day. You could hang small prints as well. At our last party, my daughter turned one and I hung photos of my daughter from each of her first 11 months with just one long string of twine and some mini clothespins!

Š Kristi Shanks Photography

Play traditional party games rather than hiring entertainers. There are hundreds of fun and nearly free games that you can play! Organize a scavenger hunt, water balloon toss, play charades, a three-legged race, capture the flag, red light green light, or tug of war. You could also do memory games or a quiz to see who knows the birthday boy or girl the best.

Purchase or hand-make a reusable Happy Birthday sign to hang up in the main room of the party. n

May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com |

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family

STOP FIGHTING

Entering into life as a mother with multiple children has highlighted a new perspective in terms of sibling dynamics.

When my second child was close to three years old and her verbal skills were highly defined, the world of sibling rivalry truly began in our household. It tends to begin as playful wrestling, with someone pushing or elbowing a little too hard. Then there’s tattling or an unkind comment, and the whole scene usually ends with someone in tears. This tends to be an almost daily occurrence.

My husband and I found ourselves constantly in the state of nagging. “Don’t touch your sister.” “Stop doing that!” “Leave your brother alone.” Nagging doesn’t change behavior. It doesn’t do anything at all except increase frustrations for us as parents. As a behavior analyst, I knew this was a bad cycle. So in preparation for this article, I implemented “Caught ya being good (to your brother or sister)!” Here’s how it works.

I made it easy — just two plastic cups with a line, one for each child. They earn a marble (left over from my wedding eons ago) each time mom or dad catches them doing something nice to each other. The most important step we had to remember was talking about what being “nice” means. My seven year old is able to understand more clearly than my four year old, so we needed to make sure she understood as well. I gave

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May/June 2014 | thehoodmagazine.com

some examples, then I had both of them list ideas of what they could do to be “nice.” The prize at our house for getting the marbles to the line is a special 1:1 time with mom, dad, or a grandparent. They get to choose. It could be supper, a bike ride, playing basketball, etc. — individual time that doesn’t have to cost a ton of money. We all benefit!

And so we began. The first week went really well. The evenings were quiet, and they both were really trying to do nice things for each other. They enjoyed earning the marbles and putting them in their individual cups, and things were great. Then mom went out of town, and dad didn’t follow through, so things went downhill a bit. We re-grouped, reviewed the rules, and emphasized the nice things again — dad included! I’m happy to report that when we are on the same page and focused on the positive things our kids do, there are fewer mean comments to each other, along with less crying and less nagging! Our home is a much better environment when we aren’t so focused on the negative things around us.

My hope is that our experience provides a little bit of inspiration to try something different and change the focus in your household. A little bit of extra work in the beginning, at minimal cost, is well worth it for a home that is more calm and focused on the good things each member contributes.

© Finished Vision Photography

by Amber Bruns, MS, BCBA South West/ West Central Service Cooperative

FamilyFest LLC is excited to present the 2014 FamilyFest Expo,

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New patients, call 32-AVERA (322-8372).

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