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BACK TO SCHOOL

M I LWA U K E E

FALL/WINTER 2014 | COMPLIMENTARY

MOLLY

FAY Brightens the Morning

FUN FALLIES

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for the Family

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contents

FALL •WINTER

2014

24 Cover Story A Blend of Work & Family . . . . . . . . . . 4

FEATURES Special Needs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Pediatrics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Foster Care/Adoption . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Back to School. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Cooking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Celebrating the Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

15 FAMILY FUN GUIDE Great Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

family M I LWA U K E E

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cover story

blend of work and

THE FAY BUNCH

FAMILY

cover story

M BY JUDITH BERGER

olly Fay joked that this was a tough birthday. “Friends say I’m in my lateforties; I’d prefer to think of it as my mid-forties.” At 46, Fay is in a good place in her life. As co-host of Today’s TMJ’s The Morning Blend, her life feels balanced and full. She has a career she loves, three healthy and happy children and friends who keep her grounded.

A charmed life? Maybe. After all she didn’t just wake up one day and have a show. “Actually, I kind of did,” she laughed. Fay had her first radio show as a student in a suburban Chicago high school. “I DJ’d a broadcast before school.” Born in St. Paul, Minnesota, Fay moved with her family to the Chicago area when she was 7-years-old. She had a love and talent for writing that her mother encouraged. “My mom suggested I go into journalism or broadcast.” After high school, Fay enrolled at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. “A girlfriend suggested that if I was

MOLLY PICTURED WITH HER CHILDREN: L-R MADDIE, CALLIE AND JOSEPH

4 | FALL/WINTER 2014 milwaukee family

really serious about journalism, I should go to the University of Missouri. So I transferred.” Once out of school, Fay began the journey most reporters take: moving from smaller markets to larger ones. “My first job was in Beaumont, TX. I was a general assignment reporter,” she recalled. From Texas, she got an on-air consumer reporter’s job in Scranton. PA. In 1994, she moved to Milwaukee to work for Fox 6 TV. “I was a general assignment reporter and weekend anchor, then morning news anchor.”

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Fay admitted that being in the news business is hard. “You start in small markets and you have to be willing to move. You work nights, weekends and holidays.” Add children into the mix and the work schedule can seem nearly impossible. Fay’s three children, Callie, 15, Joseph, 11, and Maddie, 10, are her number one priority. She is quick to say she loves her job and is willing to give it 110 percent, but her kids will always come first, which is why in 2001 Fay left the news to take a job in the sales department at Today’s TMJ. The right move, for the right reasons, will always yield good things. In 2006, the creative department at the station wanted to do a show for local businesses to showcase their products and services. They tapped Fay and Alison deCastro to be co-hosts of newly created The Morning Blend. “Businesses are able to sponsor segments to talk about what they do,” Fay said. The show was so successful that the format has been replicated in every Journal Broadcast market. Fay, who now co-hosts with Tiffany Ogle, gets to the studio every weekday morning at 7:30 a.m. for the show that airs 9 to 10 a.m. “We prep for the show. Read through scripts -- and yes, we do our own hair and makeup,” Fay said of the number one question she is asked. Fay and Ogle, who is a former Miss Minnesota, are friends. “You just can’t fake good chemistry,” she said. “Viewers see right through that.” Fay has producing and writing responsibilities and schedules guests for the show. She is home by the time her children get home from school. “I have two college girls whom I trust and depend on. They help out a lot during the summer.” But children have needs and Fay admitted it’s always a balancing act. “I read that most working mothers spend a lot of their time at work worrying or thinking about their kids. That’s not true for most men. It’s a work in progress for me, because things change as my kids get older.” Fay is grateful that the company she works for ‘gets it’ when it comes to familyand-work balance. “I feel fulfilled because I’m able to work. I’m fortunate with this job that I have holidays, nights and weekends off.” MOLLY WITH CO-HOST TIFFANY OGLE

6 | FALL/WINTER 2014 milwaukee family

Sometimes Fay blurs the line a bit. Her children have been on the show, but they are not overly impressed with her local celebrity. “My kids think it’s funny when someone stops and asks me for an autograph.” Her daughter, Callie, met a young man on a service trip in Jamaica who started a foundation that collects gently used school supplies and distributes them in areas where students are in need. “He’ll be on the show,” Fay said of the young man who founded the Relearn Foundation. Mostly time spent with her children is caught in sweet, simple moments. “We like to swim and ride our bikes. I love watching Joseph play baseball and Maddie play softball and seeing Callie in plays. It really is mostly about doing what interests them.” For Fay, like most moms, the hardest times are when one of her kids is sick. “There’s rarely any notice and it can get complicated. That’s when I feel the pull of job and motherhood.” As time passes and her children get older, Fay learns more about them and herself. “Every kid is different. When you have children you can’t believe you could love that much. And most nights I go to bed thinking I could have done better or done something differently. It really is a job you don’t want to mess up.” Fay’s hopes for her children are pretty straightforward. “I want them to be happy and follow their hearts. Of course, there will be disappointment and some pain, but I want them to learn from their mistakes, be resilient and learn how to cope. The ability to cope is no small thing in life.” It’s a lesson she learned from her mother. “She always says, ‘have a plan B, things may look bleak now, but things will look better in the morning light.’ She was right. Most problems can be fixed.” The goal for Fay is to be there for her children physically, mentally and emotionally. “There are a lot of demands on a parent. You’re not always going to be as patient as you should, but I’m becoming more relaxed as I get older,” as she settles into her mid-forties.

special needs

LEARNING ACCEPTANCE for those with SPECIAL NEEDS A DEFINITION

When a child has a special need, it means he or she may need extra help because of a medical, emotional or learning problem. These children have special needs because they might need medicine, therapy or extra help in school — stuff other kids don’t typically need or only need once in a while. And whatever the special need is for a child, or an adult for that matter, it is important to remember they have feelings, wants and needs just like everyone else. That is why it is so important to teach our children acceptance and tolerance for those who are different from them.

HOW CAN YOU HELP YOUR CHILD UNDERSTAND?

When you are with your child and you see a person who needs a wheelchair or uses braces to walk, use that opportunity to talk to your child about how it is important to have ramps and elevators so that person can get to the same places you can without help. Explain how that person may need special transportation that can lifts him/her into the vehicle so he or she doesn’t have to get up the steps. It is also important to remind your children, that not all kids with special needs have visible needs, like those in a wheel-

chair. Some special needs children have an illness, such as epilepsy, diabetes or cerebral palsy. They might need medicine or other help as they go about their daily activities. Kids with sight problems might need Braille books to read. Kids with hearing or speech problems might need hearing aids to hear and speech training to help them say words correctly. After all, it is often difficult to pronounce things correctly when you can’t hear very well. Then, there are children with learning problems, for example, a child with Down syndrome may attend regular classes but have an aide come in and help him or her. SPECIAL NEEDS continued on pg. 8 milwaukee family FALL/WINTER 2014 | 7

SPECIAL NEEDS continued from pg. 7

WHAT CAN YOUR CHILD DO TO HELP A CHILD WITH SPECIAL NEEDS?

While sometimes life can be extra-challenging for a kid with special needs, most of them want to be as independent as possible. That means they would like to do as much as they can on their own; however, other children can be a big help by being a friend. Children with special needs want friends just like any of us do, but meeting people and making friends can be tough, especially when some kids tease them or make fun of them. Teach your child to tell a teacher if he or she sees a child with special needs being teased or ridiculed. It is very lonely and hurtful to be teased or bullied, and no one should tolerate it. Being friendly to kids with special needs is one of the best ways to be helpful. As your child gets to know another child with special needs, perhaps your child will learn from the other child what it’s like to be in

his or her shoes. There is no better way to learn acceptance and tolerance. And you’re child would also be helping fill a very special need, one that everybody has — the need for good friends.

DEALING WITH BULLIES

What do you do if someone is bullying you? AVOID A RUN-IN: Don’t give the bully a chance. You can’t’ go into hiding or skip class, of course. Try to take a different route and avoid him or her. Stand tall and be brave. Sometimes just acting brave is enough to stop a bully. Stand tall and you’ll send the message: “Don’t mess with me.” Get a buddy (and be a buddy). Two is better than one if you’re trying to avoid being bullied. Make a plan to walk with a friend or two on the way to school or recess or lunch or wherever you think you might meet the bully.

Small victories can lead to great progress. Penﬁeld can help.

We set the stage for children to succeed in school and life. Through a partnership with Kohl’s Cares®, we offer the Kohl’s Building Blocks Program, providing Milwaukee-area children with early education and therapy services. To learn more, call 414.344.7676 or visit penﬁeldbuildingblocks.org.

8 | FALL/WINTER 2014 milwaukee family Client: Penﬁeld

Job Name: PEN_131414_MF

CODY Artist: mw

IF YOU END UP FACE TO FACE: Ignore the bully. Try your best to ignore the bully’s threats. Pretend to feel really brave and confident. Tell the bully “No, stop it!” in a loud voice. Don’t bully back. Fighting back just satisfies a bully, and it’s dangerous, too, because someone could get hurt. Don’t show your feelings. Plan ahead to keep your mind occupied until you are out of the situation. Tell an adult. Teachers, principals, parents and lunchroom helpers at school can all help to stop bullying.

We serve families and providers who care for children and young adults with special health care needs through: Information, assistance and referrals. • Problem-solving. Diagnosis-specific information. • Parent-to-parent connections. • Access to training opportunities. • Health benefits assistance. • Limited service coordination. • •

Located on the first floor of Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. Call (414) 266-NEED (6333) or toll-free (800) 234-KIDS (5437). The Southeast Regional Center for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN) is funded by the Wisconsin CYSHCN Program, Division of Public Health, Department of Health Services with funds from the Maternal Child Health Title V Services Block Grant, MCH Bureau, Health Resources and Services Administration, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin and The Daniel M. Soref Charitable Trust.

milwaukee family FALL/WINTER 2014 | 9

Giving Your Children the Help & Support They Need

BY VICKY KATZ WHITAKER

ith class sizes growing, if you want your child to do well in school this year, take a few tips from the pros: k Get to know the teacher. k Involve yourself in school activities. kSupplement your child’s education with afterschool and weekend projects. “Teachers and parents need to see themselves as collaborators. If they work together, the child benefits. That means that each side needs to communicate consistently, clearly and respectfully,” says Roxanne Farwick Owens, chairwoman of the teacher education department at DePaul University’s School of Education. When it comes to communication among parents and teachers, Owens maintains, “ It’s a two-way street. If parents show that they are paying attention to what’s going on with their child’s education, are active and involved parents, make themselves available and respond to teacher requests, it opens up communication opportunities.” JUST DON’T GO OVERBOARD. “The squeaky wheel sometimes gets the grease, but it isn’t necessary to be a thorn in the teacher’s side in order to get her attention,” Owens says. “Teachers

help them find the answer rather than just giving them answers.”

want their students to succeed. They want to develop positive relationships with parents. Barriers are put up when parents are rude, demanding or intrusive.” At home, parents should provide support to their children to help get homework done, Owens adds. “But don’t do it for them. Be close by if help is needed, but consider asking questions to

AMONG THE OTHER STEPS OWENS RECOMMENDS: k Establishing routines and patterns for when and how homework will get done. k Encouraging the child to read, because “children who read increase their vocabulary, their writing skills and myriad other skills.” k Limiting the use of electronics (video games, Facebook, texting). k Taking the kids places related to what they are learning in school (museums and other cultural sites). “Teachers are people, and for the most part, they care about their students,” observes therapist Irina Firsten. However, parents must also be accountable. Parental involvement “is important for the overall success of the child.” By attending meetings, keeping tabs on what’s going on in the classroom and school and “really having some visibility,” parents can ensure their child’s academic progress.

Planning After School Activities For Your Kids Fun and learning can extend beyond the classroom. From music and the arts to organized sports, after-school activities can help kids stay active and make lifelong friends. Here are some great tips to keep kids active and engaged during the afternoon: · Sign up early: Many programs fill up fast. Be sure to sign your kids up for programs as soon as possible to ensure their enrollment. · Listen to your kids: As much as you would like your children to participate in certain activities, don’t push too hard. Let them explore all their options to find activities they actually enjoy doing. 10 | FALL/WINTER 2014 milwaukee family

· Make scheduling convenient: If your children are active, you will be, too. Plan activities close to home or school to limit time spent in the car. · Go informal: When the weather is nice, consider organizing an impromptu neighborhood bike ride or soccer game. If your children are artistically inclined, invite their friends over for craft time. · Encourage academic interests: At-home supplies can inspire your child to get excited about learning. A science kit, for example, can be found at any hobby store and will augment lesson plans with fun hands-on experiments. Personalized journals for kids will encourage your young writers to put pen to paper and compose stories or essays.

• Acid Reflux

• Weight Management

If you suspect your child has a digestive problem, pediatric gastroenterology specialists Alan N. Mayer, MD, and Maria “Tes” Rivera, MD, can provide the leading-edge care and the personal attention your child deserves.

pediatrics

Call 414-908-6620 to schedule an appointment today.

www.wigia.com

Great Care for Our Smallest Patients

The Full Continuum of Digestive Care from Birth Through Adolescence

o find expert solutions for pediatric digestive health and gastrointestinal disorders, all roads lead to Southeast Wisconsin. For 15 years, the high-caliber gastroenterology specialists of GI Associates, LLC – the largest single-specialty GI group in the state – have made an indelible mark on the nation’s health care, providing the very best in patient care, digestive health education and research, and also cost. As one of the first private practice groups in the nation to offer pediatric services, GI Associates continues to be the only one in Southeast Wisconsin to offer care across the life span. The group offers two board certified pediatric gastroenterologists: Alan N. Mayer, M.D., and Maria “Tes” Rivera, M.D. Both physicians and their teams are highly trained to treat the entire range of routine-to-rare digestive disorders in infants, children and adolescents. The pediatric team also can assist children who suffer from gastrointestinal issues brought on by food allergies; formula intolerances; and other feeding issues, including poor weight gain and obesity.

The pediatric team effectively and compassionately treats:

• GERD • Constipation • Feeding issues • Food allergies • Abdominal discomfort • Obesity • Change in bowel habits • Poor weight gain • Formula intolerances • Diarrhea • Vomiting GI Associates collaborates with primary care physicians and families to diagnose and treat digestive diseases early in life, offering treatment options that enable their younger patients to thrive and actively participate in life’s events along with their peer group. As children grow up and approach their twenties, they can seamlessly transition care to the adult gastroenterology team for continued care, if needed. SMALL PATIENTS continued on pg. 12

Dr. Ellen Hing

Dr. Rhonda Boldt Dr. Patrick Fuller

Dr. Julie Fuller

SHOREVIEW PEDIATRICS accepts children and adolescents from birth through 18 years old. All of our physicians are on staff at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin and St. Mary’s Hospital of Milwaukee. SHOREVIEW PEDIATRICS has caring, compassionate physicians that are committed to educating you about preventative medicine as your child grows into adulthood. We endeavor to deal with urgent issues on a same day basis and handle emergencies promptly as they arise. We accept all major insurance plans.

Dr. Jennifer Hadjiev

Dr. Jill Bresnahan

Dr. Sarah Hambrook Dr. Jennifer Twente

Dr. Jennifer Hadjiev is offering an “Evening with the Pediatrician" class on Tuesday, September 16th from 7-8 pm Tuesday, November 11th from 7-8 pm 2524 E. Webster Place • Suite 301 • Milwaukee, WI 53211

Phone: (414) 272-7009 • Fax: (414) 272-6261

milwaukee family FALL/WINTER 2014 | 11

SMALL PATIENTS continued from pg. 11

High-caliber, Nationally Recognized Care

Dr. Mayer and Dr. Rivera, our pediatric gastroenterology experts, provide children and teens effective and individualized treatments for the full spectrum of gastrointestinal diseases and disorders. Both caring specialists: • Deliver excellent quality outcomes and excellent patient satisfaction • See patients quickly (as early as 72 hours) and perform necessary procedures within two weeks • Provide continuity of care for teens as they transition into adulthood

• Build strong interpersonal relationships with referring physicians, providing a copy of records within one week and follow-up calls • Develop healthy, strong, more direct relationships with patients and their families • Offer expert digestive health care for patients from birth through adolescents • Have over 35 years of combined experience • Have admitting privileges at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin • See patients at multiple locations throughout southeastern Wisconsin, all with convenient parking

Less Cost, More Convenience

GI Associates offers quality care at lower costs when compared with hospital-based services — about half as much as pediatric gastroenterology treatment at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, with no added facility fee for office visits on top of services rendered. Plus, ambulatory surgery centers offer a lower cost and improved patient outcomes.

Alan N. Mayer, MD Board Certified Pediatric Gastroenterologist Doctor of Medicine

Prompt, expert care for kids’ digestive problems Alan N. Mayer, MD

Maria “Tes” Rivera, MD

Digestive problems can affect a child’s health and quality of life. GI Associates can help. Common symptoms of digestive troubles in children that we treat: • Diarrhea

• Constipation

• Abdominal pain

• Vomiting

• Acid Reflux

• Weight Management

Call 414-908-6620 to schedule an appointment today.

Cornell University Medical College, New York Biomedical Fellow Tri-institutional MD-PhD Program Cornell University Medical College, New York Pediatric Residency Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellowship Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School

Maria “Tes” Rivera, MD Board Certified Pediatric Gastroenterologist

Doctor of Medicine University of Santo Tomas Hospital, Manila, Philippines Pediatric Residency Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellowship Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin Medical College of Wisconsin

www.wigia.com

12 | FALL/WINTER 2014 milwaukee family

To learn more or to refer your patients to Dr. Mayer or Dr. Rivera, call 414-908-6620 today.

foster care / adoption

Community Care

Resources

an and Linda Schuhmacher, two longtime foster parents with C.C.R., capped off their 11 year foster parenting “careers” with the adoptions of two children, their final two foster children. The time, energy, and commitment that Dan and Linda gave to C.C.R. over the course of those years are invaluable to the agency. The following is what Dan and Linda had to say about their experience.

She needs

“What comes to mind when you hear “Precious Moments”? Well, for Dan and me it brings to mind a few things. I, for one, in the past have collected the Precious Moments figurines. Secondly, I think of all the times I have spent with loved ones & what “precious moments” those are. But, the third thing that comes to mind is one of the most remembered and it is a significant part of foster parenting. Eleven years ago, we stumbled across an ad in the paper imploring the need for foster parents

something

PERMANENT TAKE ACTION NOW!

We are urgently recruiting people over age 25 interested in parenting youth in need. Empty Nesters, retired, and semi-retired parents looking for a new challenge are encouraged to call. Compensation reflects the needs of the child. Contact us to find out how rewarding foster parenting can be! TAKE ACTION NOW!

Become a

Treatment Foster Parent www.anufs.org

change lives

800.799.0450

1. 877.287.2441 milwaukee family FALL/WINTER 2014 | 13

(sure wish I still had it) and that is how it all began. How quickly those years passed by and how bittersweet it is that our journey as foster parents ultimately came to a close. Over the course of those 11 years, we were blessed to have touched the lives of 27 different children and the greater miracle is that five of them are now adopted as our own - they are now Schuhmachers. Our time as foster parents was filled with all the emotion one could ever experience and we attribute our success in part to a wonderful agency that was established by Dan Simon and supported by his wife, Mary, to both of whom we express our deepest gratitude. Dan’s vision of what treatment foster care should be was, and continues to be, amazing. We also recognize our awesome Case Manager, Jayne Foster, who we were fortunate enough to work with for the entire11 years that we fostered. Jayne was “a rock” throughout our journey as foster parents; I struggle to express what an important person she

Kids Need Good Homes Foster Parents Needed! Desire to make a difference in a child’s life? Family Works Programs, Inc. is looking for people interested in becoming treatment foster parents. We provide: • Training • 24-Hour Crisis Intervention • Weekly Social Worker Contact • Compensation Based on the • Respite Needs of the Child • Monthly Support Groups

Make a difference, call today! 608-233-9204 or 800-660-9204 www.family-works.com

14 |FALL/WINTER 2014 milwaukee family

was, and how very much we appreciated everything she did for us. I know I do not need to tell you how lucky C.C.R. is to have her. Then, there is Mary and Brian with referrals…always knowing what would work with our family and, of course, answering all the questions we had. Patty & Sharon both played such significant roles, too, and even though they were the “behind the scenes” ladies, we were so thankful for both of them. We were also touched by getting to know other foster parents, with whom we formed many friendships. Of course, we have been touched by other staff and workers at C.C.R. who will not be forgotten for their roles in each placement. So, to all of you at C.C.R., we thank you for everything. It was truly our blessing to have been a part of this “family.” But, before I close… you might be wondering what does this have to do with Precious Moments? When we signed on, we had a curio full of Precious Moments figurines. At the time, Alex (a supervisor) and Jayne had discussed amongst themselves as to how long that would last once we started getting placements….Yep, you guessed it, it’s STILL STANDING… just as it did eleven years ago….and, C.C.R., you WILL ALWAYS be a PRECIOUS MOMENT to us!”

- The Schuhmacher Family

Back To School

Spend Time Teaching Proper Spending….as well as teaching other matters of money

5 Tips for Teaching Kids About Money 1. Kids listen to you. 91% of kids say their parents teach them about money. 35% of kids say they would save better if they knew why they were supposed to save money. 2. Don’t’ feel bad about dragging them to the bank; they learn. 91% of parents use life experiences to teach kids about money. 3. When you are at the bank, open a savings account for your kid. 58% of kids ages 7-12 have a savings account. Of kids who have savings accounts: 98% understand where money comes from. 95% understand the importance of saving for the future. 4. Learning about money can be fun. 64% of kids like to play games that teach about money. Of kids that like to play games to learn about money: 83% like to do things to earn their own money. 5. Make communicating with your kids about money a priority. 29% of children pay attention all the time when their parents talk to them about money 46% of these good listeners are children of parents who make communication a top priority. 86% of kids who have parents that make communicating about money a priority say they know how to save for something big. creators.com/Frank Mariani

FAMILY

JUST LIKE ANY OTHER

After spending 17 years together as a couple, Thomas Ecks and Terry Grogan felt something was missing in their lives. There was some sort of a void they didn’t quite know how to fill. Then they realized the missing piece was children.

oth had come from strong, sturdy families with siblings, and it just seemed natural to want kids. But as gay men, they knew that would take some extra work. So, Terry began researching, and the couple decided the way to go was to foster and then adopt children. “We looked at all the options and we saw a need in the community,” Terry said. “This just seemed like the best fit for us … I had always wanted kids, so I told Thomas, ‘Don’t give me the green light if you’re not ready for this!” Thomas’ initial hesitation was about children moving into and then out of their home. And, in fact, the first two children they had, 2- and 3-year old siblings, stayed with them for only six months. But through the classes they attended, they accepted that foster homes most often are temporary. “We learned we can do this successfully,” Thomas said. “That doesn’t

mean it doesn’t hurt, but we gave these children the foundation for a lifetime.” Then in January of 2012, Asia, who is now 4, and Ace, now 5, came into their lives. Between the other foster homes they’d been in, plus being briefly reunified with their biological family – who later became homeless – this became the children’s fifth home. One of those foster homes included another sibling, Antonio, who is now 13. For months, he would visit Ace and Asia at the home of Terry and Thomas. “We established a relationship with him,” Terry said. “He was a good kid and we could see he really loved his brother and sister,” Thomas added. Then Antonio asked Terry if he would be able to stay with them. Terry thought he meant overnight. Then Antonio brought it up again.

“I mean like all the time!” The couple told him that a lot of people would be involved in the decision and that “it has to be right for you, Ace and Asia, and us for that to happen,” Thomas said. “But from our perspective, there really was no reason to say no.” Then things got a bit strange. A former foster mother and father were walking in front of Terry and Thomas’ home, on July 4th, saw the kids, and told them they wanted to get re-licensed so as to adopt Antonio. This was the same day he had asked to stay with Terry and Thomas. His current foster parents also were willing to adopt. “With three families involved, I think he felt a bit empowered!” Thomas said with a laugh. “But he really wanted and needed to be with his sibFAMILY continued on pg. 16

milwaukee family FALL/WINTER 2014 | 15

“WE LEARNED WE CAN DO THIS SUCCESSFULLY,” THOMAS SAID. “THAT DOESN’T MEAN IT DOESN’T HURT, BUT WE GAVE THESE CHILDREN THE FOUNDATION FOR A LIFETIME.” FAMILY continued from pg. 15

lings. There was a very strong connection there, so we went back to the licensing person, and ultimately Antonio was placed with us and his brother and sister.” During the process of formalizing the adoption of the three children, Terry and Thomas maintained their relationship with the childrens’ biological father. And he still sees the kids weekly. “We can’t be strong enough advocates to have biological families part of the decisions about kids’ lives when appropriate” Thomas said. When they first went to court for the children’s father’s termination of parental rights, the judge noted that the man was deferring to Terry and Thomas, so he delayed final action for 30 days. The couple felt that it was important for the biological father to explain to Antonio why he was going to give up his rights. He did, and ultimately everything worked out just fine, in great part because Thomas and Terry stressed they were committed to keeping the dad’s connection with his children. “People who saw Antonio within that 30 days said he was a different kid, happy smiling, interacting. We could see there really

16 | FALL/WINTER 2014 milwaukee family

was a weight lifted off of him,” Thomas said. Terry and Thomas wanted to be sure that Antonio understood they were a gay couple, so they sat him down and talked to him. “We said, ‘We’re a couple, we love each other, and we’re in a relationship,’” Terry said. Antonio told a kid at school they were brothers. “So, we tried again. We said, ‘We’re not brothers; we’re not related. Do you understand what a gay relationship is?’” “Yeah, I just don’t like to say it,” Antonio answered. Although he apparently was concerned about the kind of reaction he might get at school, teachers and fellow students have been great, and there have been no problems at all, Terry said. It really has become a non-issue. “We’re seeing a rapid change in our society, beyond the question of whether this is an appropriate home,” Thomas said. “We’re simply living our lives in front of everybody and we’re not worried about their perspective.” But the love and normalcy the family exhibits has changed perspectives, including some firmly held beliefs. The children’s biological grandmother, who lives in Texas, is very religious and thought this home was wrong. Because Terry and Thomas felt she was a vital part of the children’s lives, they were committed to keeping the lines of communication open. Eventually, when she was in town for a visit, she and her husband took the family out for dinner. Now she calls weekly, really wanting a connection with her grandchildren. And the family has received much welcomed, yet unexpected, support from their community. People have stopped them in the park across from their home and thanked them for being in the lives of these children. They have left packages on their doorstep. “They’ve really recognized that raising children successfully is a community effort,” Thomas said. “And SaintA has been extremely welcoming and supportive,” he said. “They have embraced us as a family. They’re doing great things without any concern for the color of our skin, nationality, our relationship. None of that is important. Nothing has held us back at all.” The couple have grown closer with each other, they said, supporting one another in child rearing, complementing each other’s personalities. Recently they went to dinner and Thomas asked, “How’s this going?” “I think we’re doing really good,” Terry answered. “I can’t imagine our lives without them. Actually, I barely remember our lives without them. “Except we had better television!”

school

e l o h W e h t t Ge

Family Organized at Time

ack-to-school season is the ideal time for families to reestablish routines and get organized -- both at home and on the go. But before hitting the stores for supplies, take time to plan ahead with shopping lists that meet both your children’s and your family’s needs. There are many great tips to help get a fresh start on the academic year ahead:

COLLEGE PREP AT ITS BEST

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Save

If you have more than one child, or want to stock up for the year, save on items like glue sticks, notebooks and writing utensils by taking advantage of sales and purchasing value packs, which are easy to find at back-to-school time. For better deals on items like tissues and sanitizing wipes, hold off until you are also buying these products for the home at a warehouse club or with coupons.

Teach Organization

Teach kids the importance of starting the day organized. One way to simplify the morning shuffle is by assigning a color to each child for easy identification of binders, backpacks and pencil pouches. Assign colors before shopping to prepare for easier in-aisle decisions. Or use color-coded stickers and labels to maintain consistency. BACK TO SCHOOL continued on pg. 18

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milwaukee familyFALL/WINTER 2014 | 17

BACK TO SCHOOL continued from pg. 17

Synchronize Schedules

The school year often brings additional commitments for families. Creating a “mission control” in a central location in the home will improve communication and ease the stress of time management. Look for calendars with high functionality like meal planners, “look-ahead” features, magnetic backings and repositionable peeland-stick adhesives. Don’t forget to include a white board or corkboard where notes can be left for one another. Student planners are crucial to help your children stay on top of due dates, keep their own commitments and operate on the same schedule as the rest of the family. Vow to spend time on a weekly basis reviewing and synching calendars and discussing the week ahead.

Guided to

• 23 athletic teams • 19 clubs and more than 20 additional activities, including theater, dances and intramural sports and service opportunities

With each new school year comes an overwhelming amount of handouts, reminders, permission slips and medical forms. Parents and children all benefit from a paper management system. Use bins, expanding files and binder dividers with “reminder” flags to keep track of priorities. Flag items needing immediate attention -whether it’s homework or paperwork. If your children have busy schedules, make it easier for them to work on the go. Opt for binders with writing surfaces, internal storage pockets for loose paper and places to stash pens and pencils. And you can do the same. Consider using binders and expanding files in the car to create a place for last-minute notes, papers and storage. With a little planning and creativity, the whole family can prepare to stay organized throughout the school year.

Longest School Years

Lead and Succeed At Catholic Memorial High School, we educate students as individuals, intellectually and spiritually. Our curriculum prepares students to not just be ready for college, but to succeed when they get there and become leaders who serve the Church and the world.

Manage Papers

Although most U.S. students will hit the road after 180 days of school. kids in other parts of the world will keep hitting the books. Here are the countries with the longest school years.

To learn more, visit catholicmemorial.net or call 262-542-7101 and speak to an admissions counselor today.

Educate. Guide. Prepare. Serve. 18 | FALL/WINTER 2014 milwaukee family

1. China: 251 days 2. Japan: 243 days 3. South Korea: 220 days 4. Israel: 215 days 5. Germany & Russia: 210 days

Getting Your Kids Ready for the

BIG JUM P to Starting Preschool or Kindergarten

ntering preschool or kindergarten is a huge milestone for kids and one for which they should be well-prepared. For some, it’s the first time they ever have been in a classroom setting, and it can be an overwhelming experience for them if they’re not ready for it. Here are some ways parents can help their kids get a jump-start on their education and make their transition to school a success. “For a lot of kids, you’re it; you’re their first teacher,” Dr. Lisa Medoff says. “Everything is new and scary. School is big. Some of (the kids) are actually runners. They end up escaping and want to run after their parents.” You can make this transition for them spending time away from you easier for your child by leaving your child with other caregivers, such as grandparents, relatives and friends. Start by leaving your child for short periods of time, like an hour to go shopping, and build to a longer period of time. Some ways parents can help their children with separation anxiety, according to an article written by Dr. Lisa Medoff for Education.com, include making kindergarten

something to look forward to. Prepare for the big day a few weeks ahead of time, Medoff writes. Post a calendar, and mark off the days as if you were excited about an upcoming holiday or birthday. Pick out a new lunch or backpack together, and save it for the big day. Plan a special, celebratory breakfast for the first morning. Another way parents can help their child transition to school is by building his or her social confidence by having your child socialize with other children. Socialization is a skill that has to be gradually learned. If you can introduce your child to the idea of sharing and taking turns before he or she starts school the whole experience will be more enjoyable for all.

BY TAWNY MAYA MCCRAY

Medoff also writes that parents can find out who will be in their children’s classes and arrange for the kids to play together a few times before school starts. So when your child begins the school year, he or she already knows someone else in the class. Then, after school begins, plan get-togethers with children from your child’s class after school and on the weekends. Another suggestion is to take your child to visit the school a few times before the first day. Arrange to meet the teacher. Look around the classroom and the school so that your child knows where the bathroom is, where his/her belongings will go, what the playground looks like, etc. BIG JUMP continued on pg. 20

“For a lot of kids, you’re it; you’re their first teacher,” she says. “Everything is new and scary. School is big. Some of (the kids) are actually runners. They end up escaping and want to run after their parents.” milwaukee family FALL/WINTER 2014 | 19

BIG JUMP continued from pg. 19

Medoff writes that children pick up cues about how to act from their parents, and if you are positive, calm and optimistic about your child’s going to preschool or kindergarten, then your child will be just fine. So to help keep everyone calm on the first day, you should:

k Explain to your child that you will be back to pick him or her up after the last activity of the day. To make this more understandable for your child, ask the teacher what the last activity of the day will be. k If your child cries and won’t let you leave, ask the staff for advice. After all, the staff is trained to deal with these types of circumstances.

k Allow plenty of time. More than likely, your child is not going to want you to just drop him or her off and leave on the first day, especially at preschool, so be prepared to stay until your child is settled. Accept the children with reverence, educate them with love,

k Borrow some books to help. The library has several books you can share with your child about the first day of school. Your librarian can help with suggestions. send them forth in freedom.

t Tamarack, our teachers emphasize year-round outdoor play, developmentally appropriate curriculum, integration of the arts into all aspects of learning, and specialty classes including: music, handwork, and foreign language.

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20 |FALL/WINTER 2014 milwaukee family

THE PARENT-TEACHER

CONFERENCE

Experts share their do’s and don’ts

BY SHARON NAYLOR

he parent-teacher meeting is one of the greatest tools parents and teachers have to ensure a student’s success. Children spend a great percentage of their days in school, so it’s important for parents to get a true picture of how their children are performing and progressing. From the teacher’s point of view, parental feedback is essential so that he or she can provide tailored attention to each student’s strengths and challenges. With the following do’s and don’ts, you’ll be able to increase the value of the parent-teacher conference for your child’s ultimate success and happiness in school. “As an educator, I try to make parents feel comfortable immediately so they are more willing to share their concerns,” says Marlene Caroselli, author of “500 Creative Classroom Techniques for Teachers and Trainers.” “Parents’ comfort levels, though, can also be increased if parents are prepared for the meeting.” Clinical psychologist Erin M. Floyd, Ph.D., shares her top do’s and don’ts for the entire process of preparing for and attending the parent-teacher conference:

Before the conference, DO:

* Schedule an appointment with the teacher to discuss problems, as opposed to dropping by unannounced. Give the teacher a general idea of your concern so the teacher can prepare. * Ask your child whether there is anything she would like you to discuss during the meeting. Assure your child that you and her teacher are meeting to help her. * Prepare a written list of questions, concerns and proposed strategies. * Work on a win-win attitude about the meeting.

During the conference, DO:

* Leave your child out of the general discussion time to avoid embarrassment or shame. * Start the conference on a positive note by thanking the teacher and school administrators for meeting with you and emphasizing the importance of collaboration. * Present your written list of concerns and offered plans. Respect the teacher’s observations, recommendations and classroom requirements. * Maintain a win-win perspective. Keep the tone positive and focused on problem-solving versus just problems.

* Generate ideas, and negotiate the best ways to approach your child’s issues. Agree on specific actions that have a fair chance of success. * Take notes of the discussion, including specific plans, responsibilities and target dates. Establish a way to check your child’s progress.

During the meeting, DON’T:

* Let the discussion deteriorate into a nonproductive session of complaints. * Muddle parent and teacher roles. * Be defensive. “If you disagree with the teacher’s assessment,” Floyd says, “respectfully tell the teacher so. Let him know you will continue to investigate the issue further with him.”

After the conference, DO:

* Emphasize to your child the positive aspects brought to light by the teacher. Praise your child for her achievement whenever possible. * Mention problems as needs that will be addressed. Discuss the action plan on which you and the teacher agreed. * Follow through at home as you agreed to do. * Maintain contact with the teacher to discuss your child’s progress, and if needed, plan a follow-up conference. One step that parents are taking is creating a detailed document of their child’s special needs so that at the start of the school year, the teacher can meet them. On the website Kidzmet, you can complete a “pairing portrait,” which provides an assessment of your child’s personality, interests, strengths and cognitive challenges. With a copy of this report in hand at the start of the school year, the teacher can try to accommodate the student’s needs. Caroselli offers a helpful tip for after the meeting: “When discussing the conference with your child, begin with an anecdote from your own school experiences. Tell your child about a time when a glowing report encouraged you to follow a particular path or when a negative report made you commit to working even harder.” The experts advise keeping a folder for your child’s educational notes and plans so that you can continue to follow up as the school year progresses. And if at any time you sense that you need to discuss new issues with a teacher, don’t hesitate to request an additional in-person meeting, which is always more productive than an email exchange. milwaukee family FALL/WINTER 2014 | 21

cooking

hen it comes to packing lunches and after school snacks for your little ones, it’s easy to get into a rut. But by making a few delicious and convenient choices in the grocery store, you can break away from the same old sandwich routine and serve up nibbles and noshes your kids will love. Whether your star pupils prefer a savory dip, a light and salty snack or a chewy fruit bar, here are a few great choices you can pack.

22 | FALL/WINTER 2014 milwaukee family

Fuel Their Day

Help them have a great day at school by serving those little learners the proper fuel. With a commitment to creating all natural snacks you can feel good about giving your kids such as, Nature’s Bakery Fig Bars that are cholesterol free, dairy free and kosher. From the sweetness of Blueberry to the tartness of Lemon, these bars are available in a variety of jam-packed, fruity flavors. For more information, visit www. naturesbakery.com.

Pop Up Some Fun

For back-to-school snacking, you can’t beat popcorn. Pop up a bowl and let the fun flavor creations begin — sweet, savory or with just a dash of salt. Popcorn is a grab-n-go treat that takes minutes to make. Plus, it’s whole grain and contains fiber to fuel the body and keep you feeling fuller longer than other snacks. This beloved treat is also economical, costing mere pennies per serving. For more information, visit www.popcorn.org.

Dip It Up

For a quick burst of flavor at home or on the go, try Sabra Classic Singles with veggies, pita bread, pita chips or crackers. These 2-ounce servings of creamy Classic Hummus are perfect for the lunchbox or on-the-go snacking and portable enough to bring along on any adventure. For more information, visit www. sabra.com.

KEEP FOOD FRESH Ensure that puddings and yogurts stay cold by freezing them the night before use. You can also freeze water bottles or juice boxes to act as ice packs in lunch containers.

Keep PB&J sandwich bread fresh by spreading peanut butter on both slices of bread, and avoid saturation by placing jelly in the center.

Add a paper towel to containers with freshly washed fruits and vegetables. This will absorb any extra moisture, retaining peak texture and flavor.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Serve a Satisfying Snack

Do you need an easy way to pack more protein, calcium and other nutrients into your family’s diet? You can’t go wrong with a kid-friendly kitchen staple like low-fat yogurt. With a wide array of textures, consistencies and flavors, there are sure to be several varieties that even the pickiest eater will enjoy. Take these beloved flavors to new heights with toppings such as dried fruit, organic granola, dark chocolate and coconut shavings. milwaukee family FALL/WINTER 2014 | 23

celebrating the arts

Involvement in the

ARTS offers many benefits for your child’s future

s parents, we often sign our children up for many different activities because we want them to be well-rounded individuals with bright futures. With that said, when driving all over town getting this child to music lessons and that child to play practice, we sometimes wonder if these activities really provide our children with an extra advantage. The answer, according to most experts, is “yes.” Exposing children to the arts at a young age opens their minds to a bigger and more creative world. Having children involved in the arts gives them the opportunity to express themselves freely. It teaches creative thinking, which goes beyond the simple skills of learning how to draw, read a line or memorize

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a few notes. It also helps them make new connections, see patterns and interpret the world in a broader range of ways. Research indicates that music instruction trains the mind in ways beyond acquiring musical skills and knowledge. According the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation, studying an instrument increases spatial-temporal reasoning skills, or an ability to visualize in space and time. Music students develop the mental flexibility to think and read ahead while performing a precise task in the present. Exposing children to the arts at a young age has also shown to increase brain changes and enhance memory skills when compared to children who do not receive musical training. In 2006, a study by the scientific journal, “Brain,” noted that children taking music lessons improved more over the year on general memory skills correlated with nonmusical abilities, such as literacy, verbal memory, mathematics and IQ, than children not taking lessons. Studies also indicate that students of the arts outperform peers on SAT and other proficiency tests. In 2000, the College Entrance Examination Board reported that SAT takers with coursework or experience in music performance scored 57 points higher on the verbal portion of the test and 41 points higher on the math portion. The arts also provide an outlet for self-discovery by providing meaning, purpose and a deepened understanding of our place in the world. In ensemble music experiences such as band, orchestra or choir, children also develop shared goal development with their peers, teamwork skills and communication within a social network.

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calendar

AUGUST

NATIONAL FAMILY FUN MONTH AUGUST 2 ........................................National Ice Cream Sandwich Day AUGUST 3 ........................................National Watermelon Day AUGUST 10 ........................................National S’mores Day AUGUST 12 ........................................Middle Child’s Day AUGUST 13 ........................................Left Hander’s Day AUGUST 21 ........................................National Senior Citizens Day AUGUST 6, 13, 20 & 27

Waterfront Wednesday Concert Series Lakefront Park, Downtown Pewaukee This musical series is held from 6 – 9 p.m., free, weather permitting and bring your own chairs. Positivelypewaukee. com 26 |FALL/WINTER 2014 milwaukee family

for Fall & Winter 2014 AUGUST 7, 14, 21 28

Water Ski Club shows Lakefront Park Downtown Pewaukee Lake 6:30 p.m., weather permitting. Visit plwsc.org.

AUGUST 15

US Bank & FOX 6 Neighborhood Night Betty Brinn Children’s Museum, 929 E. Wisconsin Ave. Free admission, from 5 – 8 p.m. with programs through the evening. 414-390-5437

AUGUST 14 – 17

Milwaukee A La Cart Milwaukee County Zoo Visit the Zoo during the showcase of the city’s finest restaurants and local bands. Milwaukeezoo.org/events/ or call 414-771-3040

DAY TRIPS BEFORE SCHOOL STARTS!

AUGUST 16

Henry Vilas Zoo 702 South Randall Av, Madison - 608 266 4732

Donna Lexa Memorial Art Fair Arts and crafts, photography, paintings, pottery, glass, wood and much more with a kids’ area, food and used book sale also available. Visit donnalexamemorialartfair.org or call 262-853-0808.

AUGUST 10 Take the kid’s to StoneFire Pizza Company for activities and food as a welcome change from the heat! 262-9708800

Bay Beach Amusement Park 1313 Bay Beach Rd, Green Bay. Visit greenbaywi.gov/ baybeach and call 920-391-3671 to make sure it is open before you leave.

Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary 1901 Shalom Dr, West Bend - (262) 338-1310 Mitchell Park The Domes 524 S Layton Blvd, Milwaukee - (414) 257-5611 Milwaukee Public Library, Main Branch, 814 W. Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee - 414-286-3000 - mpl.org – The library system hosts many free events throughout the year that are designed to encourage children to read and enjoy quality time together.

September

NATIONAL CHILD AWARENESS MONTH SEPT 7 ........................................Grandparent’s Day SEPT 12 ........................................Banana Day SEPT 12 ........................................Video Games Day SEPT 13 ........................................Kids Take Over the Kitchen Day SEPT 22 ........................................Ice Cream Cone Day SEPT 30 ........................................Ask a Stupid Question Day

SEPTEMBER 20

Apple Harvest Festival Retzer Nature Center, W284S1530 Cr-DT, Waukesha Enjoy delicious food, children’s activities, scarecrow lane, craft fair, guided nature hikes, wagon rides, Planetarium shows and so much more. Friendsofretzer.org or waukeshacounty.gov - 262-896-8007

SEPTEMBER 23

First day of Autumn!

SEPTEMBER 1

Labor Day Show Lakefront Park, Downtown Pewaukee Pewaukee lake Water Ski Club, 5:30 p.m. Visit plwsc.org.

SEPT 4

Free First Thursdays Milwaukee Art Museum, 700 N. Art Museum Dr. Sponsored by Target. Visit mam.org for more info.

SEPTEMBER 5 – 7

Indian Summer Festival Henry W. Maier Festival Park, Milwaukee Visit indiansummer.org

SEPTEMBER 5 & 6

TosaFest Village of Wauwatosa, 7615 W. State St. Food, music, family fun and more to celebrate the 35th year event. Tosafest.org/

SEPTEMBER 6-7, 13-14, 27 & 28

Autumn on the Farms Old World Wisconsin, S103W37890 Wi-67, Eagle Celebrate this harvest season by helping the farm families and villagers bring in their crops and put up the produce for winter. Visit oldworldwisconsin.org or call 262-594-6301.

SEPTEMBER 13

Downtown Oconomowoc Fall Festival Enjoy a street festival, shopping, food and drinks, free children’s games and an entertainment stage. (Rain date 9/20) www.downtownoconomowoc.org

milwaukee family FALL/WINTER 2014 | 27

OCT 2 – JANUARY 4

Of Heaven and Earth: 500 Years of Italian Painting from Glasgow Museums Milwaukee Art Museum, 700 N. Art Museum Dr. 414-224-3200/mam.org

OCT 2

Free First Thursdays Milwaukee Art Museum 700 N. Art Museum Dr. Sponsored by Target. Visit mam.org.

OCT 11 – 12

Oktoberfest Historic Downtown Cedarburg Community Center, W63 N641 Washington Ave. Authentic German bands, dancers, a Sheepshead Tourney, Sauerkraut eating contest, polka, delicious German foods and much more. Cedarburgfestivals.org

OCT 17 – 18

A Fair To Remember Craft Fair Washington County Fair Park & Conference Center

October

EAT BETTER, EAT TOGETHER MONTH OCT 5 ........................................Change a Light Day OCT 8 ........................................Walk to School Day OCT 15 ...National Take Your Parents to Lunch Day OCT 18 ................National Chocolate Cupcake Day OCT 23 ........................................IPod Day OCT 31 ........................................All Hallows Eve

28 |FALL/WINTER 2014 milwaukee family

OCT 17 & 18

Boo at the Zoo Milwaukee County Zoo, 10001 W. Blue Mound Rd Ride the “Raven’s Rail” train, go through a haystack maze and create crafts that are spooky, 6 – 9 p.m. milwaukeezoo.org/414-771-3040

OCTOBER 17

Howl-O-Ween Retzer Nature Center, W284s1530 Cr-Dt, Waukesha A Halloween themed evening, filled with scare-free entertainment, activities, crafts, Planetarium shows,

concessions and so much more. Friendsofretzer.org or 262-896-8007.

OCT 17 – NOVEMBER 15

The Baker Street Irregulars Todd Wehr Theater, Marcus Center for the Performing Arts This friendly adventure of the missing Sherlock Homes having his hired gang of kids help solve the case against the forces of evil. Visit marcuscenter.org or call 414-2737206 /.888-612-3500 (Toll free).

OCT 24 & 25

Halloween Trick-or-Treat Spooktacular Milwaukee County Zoo 10001 W. Blue Mound Rd. Costume parade, musical light show and trick-or-treating. 6-9 p.m. on Oct. 24 and 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. Oct 25. Milwaukeezoo.org/414-771-3040

OCTOBER 25

Halloween in Delafield Downtown Delafield Business trick or treat, 5 p.m. Grand pumpkin illumination, 7 p.m. visitdelafield.org

OCTOBER 25

Halloween Fun Fest Downtown Pewaukee Join us from 12 – 2 p.m. for a Kiddies’ Parade and trick or treating at area merchants. Positivelypewaukee.com

November

MILITARY FAMILY APPRECIATION MONTH NOV 2 ........................................Daylight Saving Time Ends (Turn back one hour) NOV 4 ........................................ Election Day NOV 14 ......................................National Pickle Day NOV 19 .....................................American Made Matters Day NOV 24 .....................................Celebrate Your Unique Talent Day NOV 27 ......................................Thanksgiving Day NOVEMBER 1

Family Free Day Milwaukee County Zoo, 10001 W. Blue Mound Rd. Stay warm in the many indoor animal exhibits, admission is free. Parking, rental and concession rates apply. Milwaukeezoo.org

NOVEMBER 8

Veterans Day Parade Downtown Milwaukee Honorourmilitary.us

NOVEMBER 20 – DECEMBER 28

Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival Downtown Milwaukee Six week festival gets you in the holiday spirit with, animated light displays in Cathedral Square Park, Pere Marquette Park and Zeidler Union Square.

NOVEMBER 22

86th annual Milwaukee Holiday Parade Downtown Milwaukee Milwaukeeparade.com

DECEMBER 6

Breakfast with the Reindeer/ Christmas Open House/ Parade Clock Tower Square, Downtown Delafield Visitdelafield.org

DECEMBER 6

Family Free Day Milwaukee County Zoo 10001 W. Blue Mound Rd. Stay warm in the many indoor animal exhibits, admission is free. Parking, rental and concession rates apply. Milwaukeezoo.org

DECEMBER 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 & 21

Breakfast and Lunch with Santa Milwaukee County Zoo, 10001 W. Blue Mound Rd. Enjoy a special meal with Santa, musical fun and a special holiday gift. Visit milwaukeezoo.org 414-771-3040

DECEMBER 21 Winter begins!

DECEMBER 25

Have a Happy Holida

NOV 23

52nd Annual Christmas Parade Downtown, Waukesha

NOV 27-30

Country Christmas Country Springs Hotel, 2810 Golf Rd., Pewaukee Wisconsin’s largest drive-through holiday lights event. thecountrychristmas.com /262-547-0201

NOV 28 – DEC 28

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Todd Wehr Theater, 929 N. Water St. Enjoy this musical during this wonderful holiday time. Not to be missed! Visit marcuscenter. org or call 414-273-7206 /.888-612-3500 (Toll Free).

December

SAFE TOYS AND GIFTS MONTH DEC 4 ........................................National Cookie Day DEC 12 ........................................Poinsettia Day DEC 15 ........................................ Free Shipping Day DEC 18 ........................................ National Re-gifting Day DEC 21 ........................................ World Peace Day/Winter Solstice DEC 27 ........................................ Visit the Zoo Day DECEMBER 5 – 31

Country Christmas Country Springs Hotel, Waukesha Wisconsin’s largest most spectacular drive-through holiday lights event, nativity scene, working model train, and much more. 262-547-0201, thecountrychristmas.com milwaukee family FALL/WINTER 2014 | 29

January JANUARY 1

Have a safe and happy New Year!

JANUARY 16 – FEBRUARY 15

Star Girl Todd Wehr Theater, 929 N. Water St. Stargirl celebrates first love, individualism, and the similarities that connect us all. Based on the young adult novel by Jerry Spinelli. For ages 10 and up. Visit firststage.org – 414-267-2961

WAUKESHA COUNTY PARK’S SITE:

www.waukeshacounty.gov/parks Camping in Waukesha County

Our board-certified family nurse practitioners will work with you to develop a personalized plan to prevent disease, improve your health and help you stay well. We’ll even send your visit summary directly to your doctor. Call 855-WALGREENS (1-855-925-4733) to schedule an appointment at a clinic near you. Located at select Walgreens: Brookfield 2205 N. Calhoun Rd. Mequon 11270 N. Port Washington Rd. Milwaukee 1400 E. Brady St. Milwaukee 6030 W. Oklahoma Ave. South Milwaukee 2985 S. Chicago Ave. Waukesha 221 E. Sunset Dr. Wauwatosa 10800 W. Capitol Dr.

•Patients must be a current Medicare beneficiary and not have had this service in the past 12 months in order to be eligible for the $0 out-of-pocket cost. Call 1-855-925-4733 to verify your eligibility. If your Medicare coverage is through a private health plan (Medicare Advantage), contact your health plan to confirm that this service is covered at no cost in a retail clinic setting. Patient care services provided by Take Care Health ServicesSM, an independently owned professional corporation whose licensed healthcare professionals are not employed by or agents of Walgreen Co. or its subsidiaries, including Take Care Health Systems, LLC 13PC0037

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Family camping available on a “first-come first-serve basis.” Camping season is thru November 18 at Waukesha County Parks: Menomonee Park, Mukwonago Park, Muskego Park and Naga-Waukee Park. Visit: www.waukeshacounty.gov/parks for details.

FREE AREA TOURS

Jelly Belly Factory Tours Jelly Belly Center, 10100 Jelly Belly Lane, Pleasant Prairie Daily 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (holiday exceptions). Tours are FREE and depart approximately every 10-15 minutes throughout the day and last approximately 40 minutes. Note that strollers and wheelchairs are not provided. For additional tour information, 1-800-953-5592.

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