The Village Family Magazine - April / May 2014 by The Village Family Service Center

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April/May 2014

SPRING

CLEANING SNIFFLE, SNEEZE, SCRATCH:

AN ALLERGY

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YOUR FAMILY z from the editor April/May 2014 Vol. 18, No. 2 Publisher The Village Family Service Center Gary Wolsky Tammy Noteboom Editor-in-Chief Kelly Lynch Graphic Design & Layout Jared Zimney Advertising Sales Manager Joy Ryan Advertising Sales Jeff Meyer Calendar Editor Shayna Hendricksen Copy Editor Shayna Hendricksen The Village Family Service Center Board of Directors Carrie Bjorge, David Dougherty, Richard Duysen, Judy Green, Matthew Hallaway, Dr. Richard Hanson, Tammy Hauck, Richard Henderson, Dr. Karen Mellum, Nancy McKenzie, Tom Nelson, Dr. Joy Query, Becky Walen

For advertising, call 701-451-5000 For editorial comments or questions, please call 701-451-4937 or email magazine@TheVillageFamily.org

Spring is my favorite season. The 40 degrees that in September makes us wrap our jackets tighter around our shoulders and curse the coming chilly weather feels gloriously warm and optimistic in springtime. I grew up in hilly Duluth, Minnesota, and remember how spring transformed the street curbs into river banks for the mountains of melting snow making its way down the hillside toward Lake Superior. The rush of water beckoned me to make boats out of twigs and autumn’s leftover soggy leaves. I dropped the boat at one end of the block and ran alongside it as it made its way down my imaginary river. I repeated this block after block until I arrived home, soaking wet from my afternoon adventures. Of course the melting in spring also turned the powdery snow into heavy, wet snow that could be fashioned into icy, hard snowballs. During the spring of third grade, one of my classmates, Jimmy Thompson, often ducked behind trees and lobbed snowballs at me for two or three blocks of my trek home. This went on for days, but he never hit me with a snowball. When I told my older sister about it, she said Jimmy must like me. “That’s what boys do when they like you.” Go figure. Even Jimmy’s attempts at bombing me with snowballs couldn’t sway my love of spring. By the way, nothing ever became of Jimmy and me; he wasn’t my type. Not everyone adores spring the way I do. For some people, as the temperatures start to rise, and flowers and trees begin to bud, bothersome symptoms of allergies take over their bodies. In our article, “Sniffle, Sneeze, Scratch,” you’ll find useful information about all sorts of allergies and some helpful advice, too. Others dislike spring because, for them, it means spring cleaning. We suggest a new way to approach this annual chore in Megan Bartholomay’s article, “Spring Cleaning in 30 Minutes or Less…Guaranteed!” She describes how to break down what often feels like an overwhelming project into manageable segments. You’ll get a sense of accomplishment every time you finish one segment. It aligns with the old saying, “Slow and steady wins the race.” So many things in life are defined as a marathon, not a sprint. If you look at spring cleaning that way—like a series of 5Ks all strung together—you’ll get to the finish line before you know it. Thanks for reading.

For subscription information, please call 701-451-4936 Printed by Forum Communications Printing, Fargo, N.D. ©2014 The Village Family Magazine. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. The Village Family Magazine is a registered trademark. The Village Family Magazine does not necessarily endorse content of advertising. The mission of The Village Family Magazine is to broaden the ability of The Village Family Service Center to improve the quality of people’s lives. In each issue, articles and features will educate and encourage families to develop and maintain positive, constructive relationships. Mail correspondence to: The Village Family Service Center ATTN: Family Magazine 1201 25th St. S., Fargo, ND 58103

April/May 2014

About the Cover Photo Lydia (2) Photography by Expressions by Ashton Photography

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departments z generations

6 You’re Retired? How to Volunteer Overseas

The number of international volunteers over the age of 65 continues to grow every year. Plan your next overseas adventure with volunteering in mind.

z celebrations

14 Difficult or Delightful: 6 Reasons to Appreciate Your Mother-in-law

This Mother’s Day, acknowledge all the wonderful ways your mother-in-law has influenced your family. z parenting

18 Settling the Great Debate: What to Do With Your Kids’ Art

These clever ideas will help you make the most of your children’s artwork and give the little artists in your life the recognition they deserve. z money

22 How to Deal With Medical Debt

Even if you’re insured, medical debt can become a burden. Here are some sound ways to handle the situation. z consumer

36 Spring Cleaning in 30 Minutes or Less...Guaranteed!

Getting motivated to clean after a long winter is difficult. Check out our savvy suggestions that break the process down into manageable pieces.

z feature

40 Sniffle, Sneeze, Scratch: An Allergy Primer

If your immune system is going haywire, maybe you’re allergic to something in your environment. Learn about common allergens and treatments. in every issue

z gary’s opinion.......9 z books & movies...10 z mom’s view..........12 z dad’s view............13

z events calendar.....24 z food & fun.............45 z words & wisdom.. .46

p. family

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April/May 2014

YOUR FAMILY z generations

You’re Retired? How to Volunteer Overseas

emember when you were young and idealistic and wanted to make a difference in the world? Now that you’re retired, you have your chance. Baby boomers and members of the Silent Generation are flocking overseas to take part in volunteer vacations. You’ll be in good company if you head abroad to volunteer. Those ages 65 and older are the fastest-growing group of international volunteers, soaring nearly 75 percent from about 73,000 in 2008 to 127,000 in 2012, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey. For those between the ages of 55 and 64, the number of people volunteering internationally jumped from about 102,000 in 2004 to 161,000 in 2012.

Photo courtesy of Global Volunteers

Where to look

Photo courtesy of Globe Aware Photo courtesy of Global Volunteers

So how do you find opportunities to volunteer abroad? There are two good places to start—the Internet and a religious organization. In fact, of all those who volunteered abroad, regardless of age, nearly half were connected to a religious organization, the Census Bureau found. You’ll find opportunities online with organizations connected to Protestant, Catholic, Jewish, and Islamic faiths, or perhaps with your own church, synagogue, or mosque. Your other option is to plop yourself in front of your computer where you’ll come up with a wealth of opportunities. These were recommended by SavvySenior.org founder Jim T. Miller on The Huffington Post: • Earthwatch Institute: www.earthwatch.org. Expeditions focus on environmental research and conservation. • Globe Aware: www.globeaware.org. This group offers volunteer vacations of a week or more. • Global Volunteers: www.globalvolunteers.org. Global Volunteers offers volunteer vacations of one to three weeks. • Road Scholar: www.roadscholar.org. This group used to be known as Elderhostel and its focus is on educational travel. • Habitat for Humanity: www.habitat.org. You can volunteer with this well-known charity and help build decent, affordable housing overseas. • Projects Abroad: www.projects-abroad.org. Projects Abroad welcomes volunteers between the ages of 16 and 75.

April/May 2014

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You can find opportunities in dozens of countries, from Poland to Peru.

Photo courtesy of Global Volunteers

Many programs also set aside time so you can take part in cultural activities. Photo courtesy of Globe Aware

What to expect

Where you go and what you’ll be doing on your volunteer vacation depends on your own interests and skills. You can find opportunities in dozens of countries, from Poland to Peru. You might be able to tap into the skills you’ve honed in your professional life, or choose something that simply appeals to you. Tutoring, general labor, mentoring youth, and providing medical care are some of the most common ways volunteers spend their time abroad, the Census Bureau survey found. Once you’ve discovered something that piques your interest, you’ll need to fill out an application for that position. In many cases you’ll work alongside locals as you do your tasks, so not only will you be able to share your skills with others, you’ll likely be developing new skills while having the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture. Many programs also set aside time so you can take part in cultural activities.

What are the costs?

It often will cost you a couple thousand dollars to volunteer for a week or two abroad. Typically that will cover your accommodations, food, and local transportation, and you’ll usually need to pay your airfare separately. If it’s not included in the fee you pay to the organization, make sure to purchase travel insurance in case your travel plans go awry, and health insurance if your coverage doesn’t apply overseas. While the costs of an international volunteer vacation may seem steep, because you’re volunteering with a nonprofit you’ll be able to deduct your expenses from your taxes. By Susan Ladika for Money Talks News, www.moneytalknews.com. family

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April/May 2014

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 WALK THE DOG

HERE’S TO SMARTER DECISIONS. THE SMART CHOICE FOR YOUR HEALTH INSURANCE? THAT’S EASY. BCBSND.com/smartchoice

April/May 2014

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YOUR FAMILY z gary’s opinion

Three Decades of Opportunity By Gary Wolsky, President/CEO The Village Family Service Center From time to time the question of my tenure at The Village comes up, particularly since I passed the 30-year mark in August 2013. It’s a good question, as I suppose it’s not common to find someone who stays with an organization that long. As I reflect on my 30 years at The Village, I’d like to share some of my thoughts Wolsky with you. I consider myself immensely fortunate to have had the opportunity to work for The Village—an unparalleled organization with a history in the region that is unmatched by any other nonprofit. I’ve never looked at this as a job, but more as an opportunity. People familiar with The Village know we’ve been committed to our work with kids and families now for 123 years. These same people would also have a sense that our organizational DNA is very, very different from most other nonprofits. When I started at The Village, my predecessor, Harry Myers, had spent 15 years recreating The Village after it had been an orphanage for 78 years. The Village evolved very quickly under his tenure. We knew then, as we know now, that to successfully meet the needs of kids and families in a fast-moving society we had to know our communities well, know our families well, and know our funding sources well. I doubt you’ll find many nonprofits that are more reliant than we are on the communities in which we work. A large amount of our income comes from the services we sell and donors throughout the community. When Wayne Gretzky was asked how he became such a great hockey player, he simply said, “A good hockey player plays where the puck is. A great hockey player plays where the puck is going to be.” At The Village, this means we must be able to anticipate needs. We also have to find ways to fund services in a world that is changing very rapidly. Our donors, including United Way and corporate donors, deserve to know how their investment in our work has paid off. Without fail, we can explain this to them in detail. I just visited with some donors today who have committed tens of thousands of dollars because they know and understand that our neighborhoods and our cities are better because of The Village. These donors know very well their investment in The Village, our history, experience, and passion for what we do, will make a difference in people’s lives. One of the people whose life has been changed by The Village is a woman we will call Cheryl. Cheryl, a young woman in desperate need of help, recently called one of our staff. She was pregnant and had just been released from an addiction treatment program. Because she had no place to go, Cheryl wound up going back to an old boyfriend, an addicted drug dealer who didn’t treat her well. The final chapters of this story are yet to be written, but so far we’ve been able to be of great assistance to Cheryl in helping her begin to address a multitude of challenges. Through a broad array of services and relationships we have designed over many decades, we are able to guide Cheryl as she reviews her family

options (options she didn’t even know were available) and makes decisions for both her and her baby. Our phone rings every day with people like Cheryl who need and deserve an opportunity to get things back on track. I’ve stayed at The Village for 30 years because thousands of people like Cheryl need what we have to offer. When people ask about my passing the 30-year mark, my response is that it’s not about me. It’s about incredible staff who are passionate and committed to their work. It’s about an organization that’s not dependent on the government, but respects what tax-based money can do if it is invested well on good programming. These are things I believed in long before these concepts became popular, and why The Village has been such a good fit for me and I’ve been a good fit for The Village. It’s about holding ourselves accountable—both individually and as an agency—to the community we serve and the donors who fund us. It’s also about knowing that The Village is a business and if the business end of what we’re doing is not attended to, the service end will suffer. That’s why, personally and professionally, this has been such a great 30 years. I trust that the next 30 will be equally exciting and productive! The opinions expressed in this column are strictly those of The Village Family Service Center CEO. They do not necessarily reflect the views of the organization, staff, or boards of directors.

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April/May 2014

YOUR FAMILY z m vies

Staff Pick: Jeff

DVD

“The Nut Job” PG On DVD April 15 “The Nut Job” is an animated comedy about Surly, a mischievous squirrel, and his rat friend, Buddy. After getting kicked out of the park for destroying the other animals’ food supply, the two friends head to the city. There, they encounter a host of unfamiliar and precarious situations. In need of food, the squirrel/rat duo decides to rob a nut store. However, the owner of the nut shop has thievery on his mind, too. His business is deliberately located right near a bank he intends to rob by tunneling. The hilarious animal antics are voiced by Will Arnett, Liam Neeson, Katherine Heigl, and Maya Rudolph.

“Back to the Future”

PG Available on DVD The year is 1985. Marty McFly is your typical teenager. Deemed a slacker in school like his push-over father before him, Marty doesn’t seem to have many friends. The one good friend he does have is a strung out, failed scientist, Dr. Emmett Brown. “Doc” has recently built a time machine out of a sports car. This comes as a surprise to Marty, as does the accidental trip he takes back in time. Marty lands in 1955, where he disrupts the status quo of the space-time continuum by becoming the crush of his then school-aged mother, Lorraine. To set things right, Marty must find a way to unite his parents so he may continue to exist and also find a way back to the future.

New to

Theaters

“Good Burger”

April/May 2014

PG In Theaters April 16 How much will you choose to believe? Greg Kinnear stars as Todd Burpo, a reallife father whose son, Colton, had a near death experience. The movie, based on the #1 New York Times bestselling book of the same name, recounts Colton’s experiences and how the small town he lived in and, in fact, the world has reacted to his amazing recollections. Kelly Reilly plays Colton’s mother, Sonja, and Colton is played by newcomer, Connor Corum.

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“Heaven is for Real”

PG On Netflix Instant Stream You’ll be entertained by Nickelodeon stars, Kenan (Thompson) & Kel (Mitchell), in this 1997 fast-food restaurant comedy. The friends play a couple of mindless teenage boys working at the neighborhood burger joint. When a big-time restaurant chain opens across the street, the boys do all they can to help save Good Burger— including inventing a secret sauce customers find irresistible. This is 103 minutes of fun-filled, teenage high jinx. “Good Burger” also stars Sinbad, Shar Jackson, Abe Vigoda, and Shaquille O’Neal as himself.

family

YOUR FAMILY z

Baby & Preschool “Dig” by Andrea Zimmerman and David Clemesha Mr. Rally and his faithful dog, Lightning, have a busy day ahead of them, but they don’t mind. What could be more fun than using a big yellow backhoe to build a pool at the school and a drain for the rain? Follow Mr. Rally through his day as he travels around town, counting from one to five in an irresistible refrain. Marc Rosenthal’s colorful, nostalgic illustrations add a bold dimension to the lively text by Andrea Zimmerman and David Clemesha.

Book Reviews Courtesy Barnes & Noble, Fargo

Ages 4 to 8 “Pete the Cat: Big Easter Adventure” by Kimberly and James Dean Readers will once again be entertained by Pete, from the popular “Pete the Cat” picture book series, as he takes part in a fantastic Easter adventure. In this paperover-board picture book, complete with poster, punch-out cards, and stickers, Pete helps out the Easter Bunny. Fans of previous “Pete the Cat” tales will love this Easter-themed Pete storybook. Ages 9 to 12 “The Forbidden Stone (Copernicus Legacy #1)” by Tony Abbott A secret past can destroy the future. It all begins when Wade Kaplan receives a strange, coded email from his uncle Henry, shortly before the old man’s sudden and suspicious death. He sets off for Germany to attend the funeral with his father, Roald, and his three friends, Darrell, Lily, and Becca, only to discover that Uncle Henry left them yet another baffling message they suspect is the key to figuring out how and why he died.

Teenagers “The Impossible Knife of Memory” by Laurie Halse Anderson For the past five years, Hayley Kincaid and her father, Andy, have been on the road, never staying long in one place as he struggles to escape the demons that have tortured him since his return from Iraq. Now they are back in the town where he grew up so Hayley can attend school. Perhaps, for the first time, Hayley can have a normal life, put aside her own painful memories, even have a relationship with Finn, the hot guy who obviously likes her but is hiding secrets of his own.

Adults “Still Life with Bread Crumbs” by Anna Quindlen This brilliantly written novel begins with an imagined gunshot and ends with a new tin roof. Between the two is a wry and knowing portrait of Rebecca Winter, a photographer whose work made her an unlikely heroine for many women. Her career is now descending, her bank balance shaky, and she has fled the city for the middle of nowhere. There she discovers, in a tree stand with a roofer named Jim Bates, that what she sees through a camera lens is not all there is to life. “Still Life with Bread Crumbs” is a deeply moving and often very funny story of unexpected love, and a stunningly crafted journey into the life of a woman, her heart, her mind, her days, as she learns that life is a story with many levels; a story that is longer and more exciting than she ever imagined.

family

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April/May 2014

YOUR FAMILY z mom’s view

The Perils of Public Restrooms With Preschoolers By Lara Krupicka “Mommy, I gotta go potty.” Why do those five words, when spoken in public, cause your heart to race and your teeth to clench? Is it because you know to get a preschooler successfully in and out of a public restroom you dash all hopes of completing any errand? And why is meeting such a commonplace need so risky? I’ve had plenty of time holding doors closed for my children’s privacy to consider this. It’s because of the “new and improved” facilities that abound these days. I’m all for new technology in the right places. But the bathroom? The standard flush toilet worked fine. And then they changed it. Now it’s auto-flush everywhere. Come to think of it, there’s also autorinse on sinks and auto-dispense on paper towels. Soon we’ll be waving our hands for our allotments of toilet paper and soap, too. But whoever designed all these sanitation conveniences was certainly not a three-foot tall preschooler or the mother of one. Auto-flush has ruined excursions outside our home. Every trip to a public restroom begins with questions like “Is it loud? Does it flush by itself?” My children must think I’ve pre-screened every potty. And let me tell you, auto-flush requires great care. Just getting a child to approach the throne means lots of coaxing, cajoling, and downright commanding. “Don’t worry, it’s not gonna flush yet. But whatever you do, once you sit down—DON’T MOVE. Okay, I’ll hold my hand over the sensor while you go. I PROMISE it won’t flush on you.” Even after all that, there’s no guarantee the child won’t decide the need wasn’t so urgent after all. Thanks to this modern invention, my once independent children now require all this handholding over something as ordinary as going to the bathroom. Then they flee with their pants at their ankles fearing the flush. Which brings me to the dangers of public restrooms. I’m certain we’ll emerge one day from a bathroom trip with a broken nose or gashed forehead from these flights of fear. As for sensors on sinks, what’s the secret to those? I hold my hands under the faucet. Forward. Back. Side-to-side. Nothing. So I move my body. Forward. Backward. Sideto-side. Still nothing. Pretty soon I’m doing this intricate dance with spins and twirls until…swish! The water turns on. But at this point my back is to the sink. I turn and plunge my hands under the faucet as the water turns off. 12

April/May 2014

Illustration by Trygve Olson

Next come my kids who can barely reach the faucet, let alone trip the sensor. So I hoist them up and do the water boogie with them. Forward. Back. Nothing. Shift kid to hip. Twirl. Water on. Hands under and…off! Once we’ve gotten a brief squirt of water, soaped up, and sprained an ankle trying to rinse off, we spend a little time waving at the paper towel dispenser before we give up and leave. At least I get looks of sympathy for my gimpy leg as my children happily trot to the car. Lara Krupicka, a freelance writer, has seen more than her fair share of public restrooms as the mother of three girls.

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YOUR FAMILY z dad’s view

A Letter to My Girls By J. Shane Mercer

If memory serves me, my dad was in Walmart when I called him with the big news. His response was something like, “Are you serious?! Are you serious?!” Indeed, I was serious. Amy and I were expecting twins. I remember the strange suddenness of their arrival. When it was time to leave the hospital, they handed over these two human beings we were charged with keeping alive, and bid us farewell. “There’s no halfway house you go to or certification you have to get? Don’t I have to pass a test or something?” The girls are now 9 years old, so I guess we’ve done pretty well in the keeping-them-alive department. It’s been a wonderful, painful, joyous, sleep-deprived, lesson-filled journey thus far. But just as surely as the sun goes up and down, they’re changing and getting ready to leave the little girl years, and there are a few things I want them know. Maybe they’ll see this now. Maybe later. Dear Ariana and Talia, My little bundles of crazy joy, I’m so glad you’re mine. There’s so much about life I don’t know, but I think I have picked up a few things along the way and I’d like to pass a couple of them on to you. The TV is a more-or-less steady stream of lies, as is the fashion industry. Television, movies, billboards, store windows, etc. are going to throw lots of images of perfectly-shaped (whatever that means at the moment), beautifully-bronzed people before your eyes. One message behind these is that there’s some magic world of perfection or utopia or whatever, and if you can get there, you’ll be happy or valuable or something or other that you want to be. Typically, they say this because they want something from you (often money). That longing inside you that they tap into has some basis in reality, but what they’re selling won’t fill it up. It’s bait and switch. They market stuff like significance and happiness, but sell you stuff like sneakers and candy bars. And if you chase after their utopia in the way they want you to, you’ll someday wake up to discover that you’re really chasing personal gratification—all the comforts and honors and things you want. In fact, it’s sort of like you’re chasing yourself. And that bears a peculiarly strong resemblance to selfishness, doesn’t it? (By the way, that glut of television images is one reason we don’t have cable.) Don’t worry much about your own image (i.e. what people think of you). There’s another related lie that the images tell. Whether they mean to or not, they constantly tell you to monitor the “image” you’re projecting or how you’re perceived by others…even by people you’ve never met (like the person walking past you on the street). If you’re not careful, you’ll find yourself so preoccupied with trying to figure out what others are thinking about you that you’ll miss the joy of the moments whizzing by. You’ll be in other people’s skin so much you won’t be able to enjoy your own experiences. I’m not talking about reputation or what people think of your character—guard that as closely as you can. But your coolness quotient really isn’t important. Focus on the content of your character, not how well your PR department is doing. family

Illustration by Trygve Olson

Everybody is messed up—everybody. You’ll meet people you think are messed up and people you think have it all together. You’ll be right about the first group and wrong about the second. So when you see your own flaws, address them (that’s crucial!), but also know that brokenness is something that’s common to humanity. And be merciful. Loving yourself is probably over-rated. (No, I’m not telling you to hate yourself.) One time someone gave you a plate with a picture of Elmo on it. And Elmo was saying, “Hooray for you!” Hooray for what? Eating? People are always saying stuff about needing to love yourself. There’s probably some truth in that, and you know I love you to death, and I don’t want you filled with self-loathing by any means. But I think there’s another way to approach the whole thing. Just try not to think too much about you (ignoring all those images will help a whole lot with this). Instead, think about how you can help others. When you do think about yourself, think about how blessed you are to have plenty of food, a warm home, family who loves you, friends, etc. I like you…a lot! Of course I love you, but I want you to know that I really, really like you. I love your creativity and quirkiness. You’re a little off-beat…like me. Talia, do you remember that time at the table when I asked you, “Why is there bacon in your water?” and you said, “I wanted to see if it would float.”? Ariana, do you remember the time I was buckling you into your booster seat and you said, “Dad, you don’t smell very good. You smell like hot, spicy snow.”? You do funny and sometimes odd things, and I love that. I wouldn’t trade you for any other little girls in the world! Love you forever, Dad. J. Shane Mercer is the digital marketing specialist at The Village Family Service Center. He and his wife, Amy, live in Fargo with their three children, Ariana (9), Talia (9), and Will (5).

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April/May 2014

YOUR FAMILY z celebrations

Difficult or Delightful:

6 Reasons to Appreciate Your Mother-in-law By Deanne Haines

mmediately upon walking out of the church on my wedding day, my mother-in-law burst into tears. While she claimed they were “tears of joy,” I know it was very hard for her to hand over her son to another woman. Mothers-in-law often get a bad rap. Mother-in-law jokes abound, and somewhere right now there’s a group of women chatting over coffee with at least one of them complaining about her mother-in-law. The daughter-in-law/mother-in-law relationship is an important one. While every woman’s relationship with her mother-in-law is unique, here are six reasons to take time to appreciate your mother-in-law this Mother’s Day.

April/May 2014

Recognize your mother-in-law’s loss.

Imagine your own child’s future wedding day. Your child will be embarking on a journey in which all of a sudden you’ll be taking a backseat in your son’s or daughter’s life. He or she will have a new best friend, confidant, and partner for life. That almost brings a tear to my eye already and my kids are only 9, 7, and 4. My husband often asks our 4-year-old daughter, “Do you know who my two favorite girls are?” He goes on to answer, “You and mommy!” Growing up, my mother-inlaw would have topped that list.

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family

Being a mother-in-law isn’t easy.

Now that her child is married, a mother-in-law can find herself in uncomfortable situations. She may want to visit but feels unwelcome or like she’s intruding. She may want your family at holiday gatherings but now needs to share with your relatives. Most likely there are times when she has to bite her tongue, too. I can imagine being a mother-in-law is not an easy job. While some mothers-in-law overstep boundaries (think of Ray Romano’s TV mom, Marie Barone), many have good intentions and do so out of love. Sometimes I imagine myself as a mother-in-law and wonder what kind of a relationship I’ll have with my children’s spouses. A good rule to live by is to treat her as you’d like to be treated.

Realize all she does.

Does your mother-in-law call, email, or send letters? Does she remember your children on holidays? Does she show her love for her grandchildren and make them feel special? While your mother-in-law might not meet all of your expectations, think of even little ways she makes a difference. Julie, a mom of two, appreciates when her mother-in-law offers to babysit once in

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Janet Zinke 701-451-5036 or jzinke@TheVillageFamily.org www.TheVillageFamily.org family

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a while to allow Julie and her husband a night out. Sometimes it’s easy to take a mother-inlaw for granted, not realizing all she does for the family.

Too soon she’ll be gone.

Appreciate your motherin-law because you don’t know how long you’ll have her. Sharyn, another mom of two, was grateful her mother-in-law watched her children once a week while she and her husband were at work. However, Sharyn often complained to her husband that her mother-in-law overstayed her welcome—hanging around well into the evening. Then her mother-in-law died of cancer rather unexpectedly. Sharyn regrets not spending those evenings enjoying her motherin-law’s company.

Your mother-in-law is family. New l BuilTy

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Even though he’s your husband and you have your own household and family, keep in mind that your husband is the son she raised. Your children are her grandchildren. Your children bring a sparkle to her eye and are reasons for her to brag to her friends. So it’s beneficial to nurture the relationship your motherin-law has with her son and grandchildren.

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Like most moms, I like a little pampering when Mother’s Day rolls around. However, I always spend that weekend planning a menu, shopping for gifts, and cleaning. I started a Mother’s Day tradition 16 years ago, inviting my in-laws and parents over for the day. My birthday falls around that same time as well. My husband lovingly suggests I end the tradition, knowing I would probably rather relax on my birthday/Mother’s Day weekend. Some years I consider taking him up on his offer, but then I realize there isn’t a more perfect time to show my mom appreciation for bringing me into this world and my mother-inlaw for raising a wonderful son. This Mother’s Day, let your mother-in-law know she’s appreciated, whether it’s through a phone call or letter, a homemade craft from your child, or an invitation to dinner—after all, she raised a pretty amazing man for you. Deanne Haines is a freelance writer and mom of three from Wisconsin. She writes about the pleasures and perplexities of parenting and is a frequent contributor to parenting publications. Connect with her at www.DeanneHaines.com.

877-239-4303

April/May 2014

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10 Simple Ways to Make Your Mother-in-law Smile 1. Call her or send a letter, email, or text message simply saying you appreciate all she does. 2. Tell her how amazing her son— your husband—is and thank her for raising him that way. 3. Have your children make special handmade crafts for Grandma telling her how much they love her. 4. Surprise her with a visit as a family, just you and the kids, or even by yourself. Spending time with her shows her how much she means to you. 5. Buy her something you know she’ll love. A sweater in her favorite color, a book by her favorite author, or a vase full of her favorite flowers shows you care enough to know what she likes.

6. Invite her over for dinner. Cook a meal for her and let her spend quality time with her son and grandchildren. 7. Frame a picture of her and your husband and give it to her. She will appreciate that you realize the strong bond she still has with her son. 8. Encourage your husband to spend some one-on-one time with his mom. 9. Ask for her advice on something or request a certain recipe. Making sure she knows you respect her and admire her will make her day. 10. Extend an offer to help. Offering to accompany her to a doctor’s appointment or help pull weeds in her garden will show you think she’s worth your time.

Your Toddler is Now a High School Graduate. Has Your Financial Plan Matured Too? Review your financial plan at a free seminar, “Getting Your Financial House in Order,” presented by Janet Zinke, The Village Family Service Center, and Mona Tedford, Bremer Bank. May 1, 2014

11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. The Village Family Service Center 1201 25th St. S., Fargo Lunch will be provided.

Call Jenny Boe at 701-451-4957 by April 29, to register for this free seminar.

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YOUR FAMILY z parenting

Settling the Great Debate:

What to do With Your Kids’ Art By Linda Kastiel Kozlowski

Some moms save every scribble which finds its way to paper. Some wait until the cover of darkness and then sneak it, piece by piece, to the recycling bin. It’s a constant debate and tremendous source of second-guessing: Just what’s a mom to do with the mounds of “artwork” generated by her kids? Multiply this mound in a multi-child home and the situation really gets tricky. Moms needn’t land on one side of the “keep or toss” debate, since now there’s a third option. It straddles the other two to be sure, but makes each a bit more palatable. A great way to handle all this artistry is to put it to work. These ideas will provide a boost to your child’s self-esteem and also help you clear some clutter. 18

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Let it hang around

Even if you don’t have trouble tossing some of your child’s creations, often they can find it hard to part with their favorite pieces—which may be all of them. This idea lets them maintain their own gallery of sorts, which they update themselves. Choose an open wall in their bedroom or playroom and hang a clothesline, draping down a bit, from the top left corner of the wall to the top right. Attach clothespins about every one to two feet along the line. The artwork will dress up the display, but there are also decorative clothespins available in many craft stores. Now let your child choose their favorite pieces and attach one at each clothespin. As they want to add more, it’s easy. Each clothespin

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can hold 10 or more papers without the line getting the least bit heavy. This also works for many nontraditional projects and oddly-shaped pieces which are difficult to frame.

at most general merchandise stores. These puzzles deliver a serving of fun on a rainy day and make an ideal gift for family and friends.

Clip it

A similar way to display a good quantity of pieces is using clipboards. Again, decorative clipboards can be purchased, but really the art dresses up whatever inexpensive version you find. Make sure there’s a hole in the “clip” part of the clipboard. Then, use small nails to hang six to 10 clipboards along a wall in any pattern you choose. A twoby-three rectangle of clipboards looks great, as does a long row, up high, of six or so. Once these are mounted on the wall, your kids simply choose the artwork and clip it on. It’s easy to add new artwork on top and rearrange what’s already displayed.

Make a note of this one

If you just hate to cut up even a copy of the artwork, make it into note cards instead. You’ll just need 6 x 9-inch envelopes and cardstock paper. Print out each scanned artwork on one-half of the paper (done easily, even in Word), fold in half, and you have a greeting card. Tired of getting everyone to pose for the holiday card? Use their favorite piece of art—which will capture their age, skills, and interests—to create one. You may even ask them to draw something special just for the particular holiday. Cards can be created for any occasion and are especially great as “thank you” cards for your kids to send out.

Save it on the screen

For those moms who love to keep a record of everything (you know who you are), here’s a great idea that will really cut down on clutter. Set aside an afternoon and scan all the pieces you want to keep into the computer. The jpeg files can be easily stored in folders with each child’s name. Now, if you ever need to toss something, you still have a copy. Take it a step further and set up these files as the screen saver on your computer and/or the computer your child uses. It’s as simple as directing the screen saver to the right group of folders. Just be warned, a constant flow of images created by your kids might just inspire them to create even more.

Put it everywhere

Now that you have at least some of the creations as computer files, the sky is the limit. There are numerous companies which allow you to put a photograph on a coffee mug, t-shirt, or even a blanket. Your child’s treasured artwork can now be transformed into just about anything that features a photo. In-store or online resources include Walmart, CVS, and Cash Wise Photo, to name a few. You may have solved your “What do we get Grandma?” question for the next few birthdays and holidays.

Puzzle it out

Another way to use the computer version of your child’s artwork is to make your own puzzle from it. Just print out one or more of the jpeg files onto cardstock, cover it in clear, adhesive-backed shelf paper, and cut it into pieces. Both the cardstock and shelf paper are available, quite inexpensively, family

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Float it

Another gift idea is to pair some of their best artwork with a “floating frame” found at most craft stores. This type of frame sandwiches various sizes of paper between two glass panes. The frame doesn’t need to fit the particular piece, so it can be easily updated. This is the perfect gift for relatives, since you can send them a new piece every month (or more often if you really want to clear things out) and provide them with a continually updated gallery of your child’s creations.

Send it

Okay, this may be cheating a bit, but the beauty is in its simplicity. If your child is hesitant to get rid of anything they’ve created, encourage them to share their creations with family and friends. Out-of-towners will love getting little care packages with a selection of your child’s artwork. Your child will know the pieces are in good hands and being admired. You’ll cut down on the stacks of papers, too.

Show it off

As you start to accumulate some of their creations, make an evening of it and schedule an art show right in your own home. Cut color-coordinated construction paper a bit larger than the pieces you’d like to exhibit, forming a frame for each piece. Choose a wall and hang as many as you’d like, from as many kids as you’d like. This can be a temporary or permanent exhibit. Select an evening to invite friends and family, serve snacks, and unveil all the “framed” pieces. It’s a great reason to get everyone together. 20

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Save it

After you’ve scanned some images and printed them for various projects, mailed away others you wanted to share, displayed still others on clotheslines or clipboards, it’s time for the old scrapbook. It’s easiest to purchase a photo album, the kind that has pages covered in plastic that are pulled back and then sealed over the photos. Use these to keep your favorite pieces looking good for years. Over time, you’ll learn to discriminate among those that are display-worthy and those you want to save, for sentimental reasons, in the scrapbook. As your kids get older, these first scribbled creations and early attempts at artistry become precious beyond measure. The key is to keep the artwork manageable, so it can be thoroughly enjoyed. Linda Kastiel Kozlowski is a writer and mother of two boys, both “aspiring” artists!

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LIVING LIFE TO THE FULLEST Life After Weight Loss Surgery

Mary Fischer is the epitome of health. Watching the petite dynamo in action, it’s hard to imagine that she once weighed 244 pounds. Now 105 pounds lighter thanks to weight loss surgery and a healthier lifestyle, she is living the life she used to only dream about. “Weight loss surgery is a dramatic step—one you need to be absolutely 100 percent certain about,” she says. “I made my decision in April 2011. I was ready.” A formal consultation with Dr. Luis Garcia, one of two board certified weight loss surgeons at Sanford Health, led to intensive pre-surgery education including dietician visits, a psychiatric evaluation, and more. A successful surgery followed.

Improved Health

So just how has Mary done in maintaining her weight nearly three years post-surgery? In a word: “Awesome.” “Being able to do more is simply awesome. Traveling, which has always been a priority for my husband and I, is so much easier. I can now take guided tours and not get winded. You will find me at the front of the group which is a joy and something I was not able to do before,” says Mary. Within weeks of her surgery, Mary experienced one of the most rewarding benefits of weight loss surgery—she was able to discontinue the medication she had been taking for nearly 30 years to treat high blood pressure. As in Mary’s situation, weight loss surgery has been proven to alleviate pain and in some cases even cure certain conditions. In fact, doctors have discovered that gastric bypass surgery can be an effective treatment for type 2 diabetes and obesity. Patients could potentially leave the hospital without the need to take insulin. “Our intestines produce an elaboration of hormones, which are called incretins. Within hours of surgery these incretins increase dramatically. These hormones stimulate the pancreas to make more insulin, which helps the control of type 2 diabetes,” says Dr. Garcia.

Diet and Nutrition

Our bodies need proper nutrition so we can feel our absolute best. One of the main priorities for patients who have had weight loss surgery is protein intake. The body needs a certain amount of protein to maintain muscle, and protein also helps burn fat and repair tissue. Daily vitamins and minerals also play a key role in the nutritional success of weight loss surgery patients. Lifelong vitamin and mineral recommendations have been developed specifically for these individuals. Mary plans her meals and snacks with protein in mind. She eats her protein first and if she has room then she will eat her vegetables and fruit. “You learn exactly what you need to do to maintain your weight loss,” she says. “There are no detours. You need to follow the plan, keep moving, and keep your head on. If you do the right things, you will succeed,” says Mary.

To learn more about weight loss surgery options, please visit www.sanfordhealth.org Keyword: weight loss surgery. Or call 701-234-4111 to schedule an appointment.

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YOUR FAMILY z money

How to Deal With Medical Debt By Kerrie McLoughlin

A broken bone, mental health therapy, a longterm illness, a car accident, a premature baby. All of these situations—and so many more unexpected ones—can land a family in medical debt. According to Wikipedia, “Medical debt is different from other forms of debt, because it is usually incurred accidentally or faultlessly. People do not plan to fall ill or hurt themselves, and health care remedies are often unavoidable…” A family can’t comparison shop for a needed surgery or delay treatment for cancer until they have the money to pay for it in full. When most people think of medical debt, they think of a person or family with no health insurance at all, yet a large percentage of Americans who have incurred medical debt actually do possess health insurance (also known as the “underinsured”). According to a recently 22

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released Kaiser Family Foundation study, 70 percent of those with medical debt were insured, and their financial struggles arose from costsharing and other out-of-pocket expenses. If you find yourself facing medical debt, here are some steps and options to consider. 1. Make sure the amounts you are being billed are correct. Doctors, nurses, medical billers, and other staff can make mistakes in billing, so verify you are

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being charged for services you actually received. If you have insurance, call your insurance company to confirm that all itemized amounts have been written off correctly in accordance with your policy. 2. Contact your medical provider. One of the biggest mistakes people make is to ignore their medical bills. Bob Dahlseng, Certified Financial Counselor at The Village Family Service Center, advises people to contact their medical provider right away if they are going to have a difficult time paying a bill. 3. Ask about community care or charity care. Dahlseng encourages people to ask about community care or charity care. “Most medical providers will have a process by which they will look at reducing or forgiving a medical bill.” 4. Work out a payment arrangement with the provider. If you aren’t able to settle on a payment arrangement, the provider will most likely turn the debt over to a collection agency. Dahlseng says, “Medical providers just do not hang onto their receivables for any length of time without an agreed-upon arrangement.” 5. If your debt is turned over to a collection agency, don’t panic. The idea of a collection agency may be a bit scary, but Dahlseng says, “It’s not the end of the world and some can be very cooperative.” On the other hand, others are not so cooperative and will use the threat of judgment or garnishment to get you to pay off the debt. The key is to stay calm and try to work with them. 6. Stick to your payment arrangements the best you can. If you find yourself unable to pay during a given month, call the provider instead of simply not sending the money. They are more apt to work with you if you keep open the lines of communication.

7. Use money from a savings account or other source to make a down payment. Sometimes you can negotiate a lower final payment if you are able to pay a large enough down payment at the start. 8. Consider carefully before borrowing on an IRA (individual retirement account) to pay medical bills. You may be able to borrow on your IRA taxfree for medical purposes, but Dahlseng doesn’t recommend it. “IRA’s are meant for retirement, not for paying off medical debt,” he says. 9. Be wary of suggestions to put your medical debt on a credit card. It may be tempting to use your credit card to get the collector off your back, but unless it’s just a couple thousand dollars, Dahlseng doesn’t think it’s a good idea. Even a credit card with a low interest rate is probably going to charge higher interest than the medical provider, and “if you can’t handle a payment arrangement with your provider, what makes you think you can handle the credit card payment?” he says. The best way to tackle medical debt is head-on. Be up front about the financial obligation and be proactive and thoughtful when considering the payoff options. Kerrie McLoughlin is a seasoned mom of five who blogs at www.TheKerrieShow.com.

The Village Counselors are here to help. In-office counseling available for individuals, couples, parents, and children. Online counseling also available.

1201 25th St. S., Fargo • 701-451-4900 1401 8th St. S., Moorhead • 701-451-4811 www.TheVillageFamily.org family

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Calendar of Events

To include your event in our family-friendly calendar, email shendricksen@TheVillageFamily.org. Deadline for the June/July calendar is April 30, 2014. Although we strive to be as accurate as possible, please call ahead to verify information, registration requirements, or event fees. Due to limited space, we are unable to include all submissions.

APRIL 2014 EVENTS 4.1 Tuesday • FMCT’s Summer Theatre Programs Registration Open. Call 701-235-6778 or visit www.fmct.org for details • FM/AM Rotary Club’s Annual Rotary Rose Sale. Proceeds to benefit the Rape and Abuse Crisis Center, YWCA, Rebuilding Together, and TNT Kid’s Fitness. Sale ends April 20 with pickup or delivery on April 23. Order at www.RotaryRoseSale.com • MSUM Commercial Ensemble. 7:30 p.m., Gaede Stage, MSUM, Moorhead, 218-477-2271 4.2 Wednesday • World Autism Awareness Day. Visit www.autismspeaks.org for more information • Children’s Storytime. 10 a.m., Barnes & Noble, 1201 42nd St. S., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com • MSUM Wind Ensemble Chamber Concert. 7:30 p.m., Gaede Stage, MSUM, Moorhead, 218-477-2271

You’re Wanted... There’s a child waiting for YOU! Call today about bringing a child into your home 701-280-9545 800-766-9321 www.pathinc.org

4.4 Friday • El Zagal Shrine Circus. 7 p.m., Fargodome, 1800 N. University Dr., Fargo, 701-241-9100 or www.fargodome.com • Parent’s Night Out Open Gym. Ages 5-14. 7-9 p.m., TNT Kid’s Fitness, 2800 Main Ave., Fargo, 701-365-8868 or www.tntkidsfitness.org • Fargo Force vs. Omaha Lancers. 7:05 p.m., Scheels Arena, 5225 31st Ave. S., Fargo, 701-356-7656 or www.fargoforce.com • “Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” Presented by FMCT. 7:30 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct.org 4.5 Saturday • Day of Percussion. Memorial Auditorium, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-4515 • Minn-Kota Feline Club Cat Show. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Hartl Ag Building, RRV Fairgrounds, 1805 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-840-9850 • El Zagal Shrine Circus. 10 a.m., 2 p.m. & 6 p.m., Fargodome, 1800 N. University Dr., Fargo, 701-241-9100 or www.fargodome.com • Children’s Storytime. 11 a.m., Barnes & Noble, 1201 42nd St. S., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com • The Arc’s 7th Annual NEXT Top Model Fashion Show. 1 p.m., Cheney Middle School, 825 17th Ave. E., West Fargo, www.arccassnd.com • 4 Luv of Dog Rescue’s Meet the Dogs. Visit dogs available for adoption. 1-3 p.m., PetSmart, 1630 13th Ave. E., West Fargo, www.4luvofdog.org • Kid Quest: Seed Bombs Away! Register at 701-551-6100 or www.plainsart.org. 1-4 p.m., Plains Art Museum, 704 1st Ave. N., Fargo • Dr. Terry Shoptaugh Presentation. The Moorhead Public Library and Comstock House present Dr. Terry Shoptaugh on the history of the Red River. 2 p.m., Comstock House, 506 8th St. S., Moorhead, 218-233-7594 or www.larl.org • Percussion Ensemble Concert. 4 p.m., Memorial Auditorium, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-4515 • Saturday Fun Night. Grades K-6. Register at 701-293-9622 or www.ymcacassclay.org/funnights. 4:30-9:30 p.m., Schlossman YMCA, 4243 19th Ave. S., Fargo • Fargo Force vs. Des Moines Buccaneers. Fan Appreciation Night: Hot tub giveaway, live jersey auction after the game. 7:05 p.m., Scheels Arena, 5225 31st Ave. S., Fargo, 701-356-7656 or www.fargoforce.com • “Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” Presented by FMCT. 7:30 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct.org 4.6 Sunday • Minn-Kota Feline Club Cat Show. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Hartl Ag Building, RRV Fairgrounds, 1805 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-840-9850

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• El Zagal Shrine Circus. Noon & 4 p.m., Fargodome, 1800 N. University Dr., Fargo, 701-241-9100 or www.fargodome.com • High School Honor Band Concert. 1 p.m., Memorial Auditorium, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-4515 • “Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” Presented by FMCT. 2 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct.org • FM Area Youth Symphonies Spring Concert. 4 p.m., Festival Concert Hall, NDSU, Fargo, 701-388-4536 or www.fmays.org • Echo Band Concert. 7:30 p.m., Buxton/Hanson Hall, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-4515 4.8 Tuesday • Casting Crowns Concert. Special guests Laura Story and For King & Country. 7 p.m., Fargodome, 1800 N. University Dr., Fargo, 701-241-9100 or www.fargodome.com 4.9 Wednesday • Children’s Storytime. 10 a.m., Barnes & Noble, 1201 42nd St. S., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com 4.10 Thursday • New Life Center Auxiliary 37th Annual Prayer Breakfast & Evening Dessert. Guest speaker Marie Monville. Breakfast at 9:30 a.m., dessert at 7:30 p.m., Hilton Garden Inn, 4351 17th Ave. S., Fargo, 701-235-4453 or www.fargonlc.org • Teen Filmmakers Awards Night. A special screening of films contributed to “Fargo in 60 Seconds” by filmmakers ages 14-18. 7-9 p.m., Plains Art Museum, 704 1st Ave. N., Fargo, 701-5516100 or www.plainsart.org

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• University Orchestra Concert. 7:30 p.m., Hansen Theatre, MSUM, Moorhead, 218-477-2271 • “Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” Presented by FMCT. 7:30 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct.org • “Much Ado About Nothing.” 8 p.m., Frances Frazier Comstock Theatre Main Stage, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-3314 4.11 Friday • Ausome Evening. Guest speaker Alexis Wineman, silent auction, dinner, dance. 5:30 p.m., Ramada Plaza & Suites, 1635 42nd St. S., Fargo, www.ndautismcenter.org • Riding on Angels Wings Auction & Dinner Fundraiser. 5:30-11:30 p.m., Hartl Ag Building, RRV Fairgrounds, 1805 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-793-5153 • “Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” Presented by FMCT. 7:30 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct.org • “Much Ado About Nothing.” 8 p.m., Frances Frazier Comstock Theatre Main Stage, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-3314 4.12 Saturday • 20th Annual Gigantic Rummage Sale. 7 a.m.-2 p.m., Veterans Memorial Arena, 1201 7th Ave. E., West Fargo, 701-433-5360 or www.wfparks.org • Children’s Storytime. 11 a.m., Barnes & Noble, 1201 42nd St. S., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com

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4.12 Saturday (cont.) • Author Mark Musick Presentation & Book Signing. 11 a.m., Fargo Air Museum, 1609 19th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-293-8043 or www.fargoairmuseum.org • Awesome Art Afternoon. 1-3 p.m., RDJ Rec Center, 1104 2nd Ave. S., Fargo, 701-499-7788 or www.fargoparks.com • “Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” Presented by FMCT. 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct.org • Easter Eggstravaganza. All ages. Register at 701-293-9622 or www. ymcacassclay.org/register. 2-4 p.m., Fercho YMCA, 400 1st Ave. S., Fargo • Handbell Choir Concert. 4 p.m., Centrum, Knutson Campus Center, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-4515 • MSUM Snowfire Concert. 7:30 p.m., Weld Hall, MSUM, Moorhead, 218-477-2271 • One Act Plays. Presented by WF High School and WF Sheyenne High School Theatres. 7:30 p.m., West Fargo High School, 801 9th St. E., West Fargo, www.westfargotheatre.com

• Masterworks Concert V: From London with Love. Special guest violinist Chee-Yun. 7:30 p.m., Festival Concert Hall, NDSU, Fargo, 701-4783676 or www.fmsymphony.org • “Much Ado About Nothing.” 8 p.m., Frances Frazier Comstock Theatre Main Stage, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-3314 4.13 Sunday • “Much Ado About Nothing.” 2 p.m., Frances Frazier Comstock Theatre Main Stage, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-3314 • “Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” Presented by FMCT. 2 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct.org • Masterworks Concert V: From London with Love. Special guest violinist Chee-Yun. 2 p.m., Festival Concert Hall, NDSU, Fargo, 701-4783676 or www.fmsymphony.org • Oratorio Concert. 7 p.m., Memorial Auditorium, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-4515

LuAnn White p: 293-3423 c: 729-3167

luannwhite@fmrealestate.com LuAnnSellsHomes.com

Step 1: Find Your Perfect home

So hoic e ... c s u eas o i y, it’s the obv Step 2: Get the INSURANCe You Need

4.14 Monday • Gooseberry Park Players Information Session & Audition Sign-up. Summer theatre program open to students ages 11-18. 6 p.m., Moorhead Public Library, 118 5th St. S., Moorhead, www.gooseberryparkplayers.org • Vocal Jazz/Jazz Ensemble Concert. 7:30 p.m., Memorial Auditorium, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-4515 4.15 Tuesday • West Fargo Summer Arts Intensive Registration Open. Visit www.westfargotheatre.com for details 4.16 Wednesday • Children’s Storytime. 10 a.m., Barnes & Noble, 1201 42nd St. S., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com • Gooseberry Park Players Information Session & Audition Sign-up. Summer theatre program open to students ages 11-18. 6 p.m., Moorhead Public Library, 118 5th St. S., Moorhead, www.gooseberryparkplayers.org • “HAIR.” 7:30 p.m., Fargodome, 1800 N. University Dr., Fargo, 701-241-9100 or www.fargodome.com 4.18 Friday • 25th Annual Easter Eggstravaganza. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. with egg hunts at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. & 3 p.m., The Children’s Museum at Yunker Farm, 1201 28th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-232-6102 or www.childrensmuseum-yunker.org 4.19 Saturday • 4th Annual Table Run 5K. A run/walk to promote disability awareness and benefit The Arc of Cass County. 10 a.m. Fargo Billiards and Gastropub, 3234 43rd St. S., Fargo, www.tablerun5k.com (See ad pg. 42) • 25th Annual Easter Eggstravaganza. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. with egg hunts at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. & 3 p.m., The Children’s Museum at Yunker Farm, 1201 28th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-232-6102 or www.childrensmuseum-yunker.org • Children’s Storytime. 11 a.m., Barnes & Noble, 1201 42nd St. S., Fargo, 701281-1002 or www.bn.com • 4 Luv of Dog Rescue’s Meet the Dogs. Visit dogs available for adoption. 1-3 p.m., PetSmart, 1630 13th Ave. E., West Fargo, www.4luvofdog.org 4.20 Sunday • Happy Easter from The Village Family Magazine!

erik Opdahl p: 277-1710 c: 840-2779

eopdahl@tciteam.com

April/May 2014

villagefamilymag.org

family

4.23 Wednesday • Children’s Storytime. 10 a.m., Barnes & Noble, 1201 42nd St. S., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com • Kids & Money presented by The Village Family Service Center. Have a positive impact on your children’s values regarding money and watch them step confidently into adulthood— financially capable, independent, and prepared. Register at http://kidsmoney. eventbrite.com. 6-7 p.m., Dakota Medical Foundation, 4141 28th Ave. S., Fargo • One Act Play Festival. 7 p.m., Frances Frazier Comstock Theatre, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-3314 4.24 Thursday • A Reason to Hope Luncheon. Alzheimer’s Association MN-ND Chapter fundraiser. Contact Traie Dockter at 701-356-2087 or tdockter@ alz.org. Noon-1 p.m., Fargo Country Club, 509 26th Ave. S., Fargo • LUNAFEST. Traveling film festival of award-winning short films by, for, and about women. Sponsored by Junior League of Fargo Moorhead. Social and silent auction at 6 p.m., films begin at 7 p.m., Fargo Theatre, 314 Broadway, Fargo, 701-235-8815 or fmjuniorleague@yahoo.com • The Living Roots of Music with Lauren Pelon. 7 p.m., Hjemkomst Center, 202 1st Ave. N., Moorhead, 218299-5515 or www.hcscconline.org • One Act Play Festival. 7 p.m., Frances Frazier Comstock Theatre, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-3314 4.25 Friday • Stand Against Racism 2014. Activities and events throughout the community to help raise awareness and take a stand against racism. Visit www. standagainstracism.org for more information • Sheyenne High School Rodeo. Noon, Schollander Pavilion, RRV Fairgrounds, 1805 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-799-3778 • Car Seat Round Up. Bring your outdated or unsafe car seats. 3-7 p.m., AAA ND, 4950 13th Ave. S., Fargo • Autism Support Group Open Gym. Ages 5-14. All profits will go to the Autism Support Group. 7-8:30 p.m., TNT Kid’s Fitness, 2800 Main Ave., Fargo, 701-365-8868 or www.tntkidsfitness.org

family

4 Luv of Dog Rescue’s Meet the Dogs

•S ymphonia Dessert Pops Concert. 7:30 p.m., Centrum, Knutson Campus Center, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-4515 4.26 Saturday •S heyenne High School Rodeo. 8 a.m., Schollander Pavilion, RRV Fairgrounds, 1805 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-799-3778 •M arch of Dimes March for Babies. Registration at 9 a.m., walk begins at 10 a.m., Scheels Arena, 5225 31st Ave. S., Fargo, www.marchforbabies.org •C ar Seat Round Up. Bring your outdated or unsafe car seats. 9 a.m.noon, AAA ND, 4950 13th Ave. S., Fargo •C rying Hills Antique Show. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Hartl Ag Building, RRV Fairgrounds, 1805 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-667-8894 •C hildren’s Storytime. Special guest Skippy Jon Jones. 11 a.m., Barnes & Noble, 1201 42nd St. S., Fargo, 701281-1002 or www.bn.com •P arty for the Planet. Earth Day celebration with activity stations, tree-planting ceremony, and animal encounters. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Red River Zoo, 4255 23rd Ave. S., Fargo, 701-2779240 or www.redriverzoo.org •H ealthy Kids Day & Spring into Spring in the Xerzone. All ages. 1-4 p.m., Fercho YMCA, 400 1st. Ave. S., Fargo, 701-293-9622 or www.ymcacassclay.org

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• Garden Party. 1:30-4:30 p.m., Rheault Farm, 2902 25th St. S., Fargo, 701-4997788 or www.fargoparks.com • “Alice in Wonderland.” Presented by FM Ballet. Call 701-234-9440 or visit www.fmballet.org for tickets. 2 p.m. & 7 p.m., Fargo Theatre, 314 Broadway, Fargo • FM Derby Girls Bout. Summer Lovin’ Luau: Hula contests, photo booth, fun for all ages. 7 p.m., Fargo Civic Center, 207 4th St. N., Fargo, www.fmderbygirls.com 4.27 Sunday • Sheyenne High School Rodeo. 8 a.m., Schollander Pavilion, RRV Fairgrounds, 1805 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-799-3778 • Crying Hills Antique Show. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Hartl Ag Building, RRV Fairgrounds, 1805 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-667-8894 • Recycling the Clay Community Day. All extra clay at the Center for Creativity will be available for your own clay creations. 1-4 p.m., Plains Art Museum, 704 1st Ave. N., Fargo, 701-551-6100 or www.plainsart.org • Symphonic Band Spring Concert. 4 p.m., Memorial Auditorium, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-4515 • Indoor Triathlon. 7 p.m., Fercho YMCA, 400 1st Ave. S., 701-293-9622 or www.ymcacassclay.org

April/May 2014

4.25 Stand Against Racism 2014

4.28 Monday • Tri-College Jazz Combos. 7:30 p.m., Fox Recital Hall, MSUM, Moorhead, 218-477-2271 4.30 Wednesday • Children’s Storytime. 11 a.m., Barnes & Noble, 1201 42nd St. S., Fargo, 701281-1002 or www.bn.com

MAY 2014 EVENTS 5.1 Thursday • Season Opening of the Pioneer Village. Bonanzaville, 1351 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-282-2822 or www.bonanzaville.org • “The Bikinis.” Presented by FMCT. 7:30 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct.org 5.2 Friday • Train for a Marathon Open Gym. Ages 5-14. 7-8:30 p.m., TNT Kid’s Fitness, 2800 Main Ave., Fargo, 701-365-8868 or www.tntkidsfitness.org • “The Bikinis.” Presented by FMCT. 7:30 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct.org • “Mamma Mia!” 8 p.m., Fargodome, 1800 N. University Dr., Fargo, 701-2419100 or www.fargodome.com

April/May 2014

5.3 Saturday • American Heart Association Red River Valley Heart Walk. Contact Tom Jones at 605-787-8808 or tom.jones@ heart.org. 9 a.m.-noon, Scheels Arena, 5225 31st Ave. S., Fargo, www.redrivervalleyheartwalk.org • Children’s Storytime. 11 a.m., Barnes & Noble, 1201 42nd St. S., Fargo, 701281-1002 or www.bn.com • Kite Day. 12:30-3 p.m., Ed Clapp Park, 2801 32nd Ave. S., Fargo, 701-4997788 or www.fargoparks.com • “The Bikinis.” Presented by FMCT. 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-2356778 or www.fmct.org • Commencement Concert. 3 p.m., Memorial Auditorium, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-4515 • Plains Art Museum Optical Illusions Spring Gala. 7 p.m.-midnight, Plains Art Museum, 704 1st Ave. N., Fargo, 701-551-6100 or www.plainsart.org (See ad pg. 38) 5.4 Sunday • Spring Arts Fling. A community open house. 1:30-4:30 p.m., Bluestem Center for the Arts, 801 50th Ave. S.W., Moorhead, 218-477-6500 or www.trollwood.org • “The Bikinis.” Presented by FMCT. 2 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct.org • MSUM Wind Ensemble. 3 p.m., Weld Hall, MSUM, Moorhead, 218-477-2271 • FM RedHawks vs. St. Paul Saints. Exhibition game. 6 p.m., Newman Outdoor Field, 1515 15th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-235-6161 or www.fmredhawks.com 5.5 Monday • FM RedHawks vs. St. Paul Saints. Exhibition game. 6 p.m., Newman Outdoor Field, 1515 15th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-235-6161 or www.fmredhawks.com 5.6 Tuesday • Community Block Party. 5:30-8 p.m., Courts Plus Community Fitness, 3491 University Dr. S., Fargo, 701-499-7788 or www.fargoparks.com 5.7 Wednesday • FirstLink’s 6th Annual Breakfast. RSVP to Angie at 701-293-6462 or angieh@myfirstlink.org. 7:30-8:30 a.m., Hilton Garden Inn, 4351 17th Ave. S., Fargo

villagefamilymag.org

• Children’s Storytime. 10 a.m., Barnes & Noble, 1201 42nd St. S., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com 5.8 Thursday • Fargo Marathon Events. Swanson Products Health & Fitness Expo, 1/2Mile Youth Run, 1-Mile Youth Run. www.fargomarathon.com 5.9 Friday • Fargo Marathon Events. Swanson Products Health & Fitness Expo, speakers, pasta/lefse feed, 5K Run/ Walk, Johnny Holm Band concert. www.fargomarathon.com 5.10 Saturday • Fargo Marathon Events. 10K, Half Marathon, Full Marathon. www.fargomarathon.com • Pepsi Outdoor Archery Challenge. Forest River Rd., 76th Ave. S. & Red River, Fargo, 701-499-7788 or www.fargoparks.com • Eco Chic Boutique Spring Junk Market. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Hartl Ag Building, RRV Fairgrounds, 1805 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, www.beingecochic.com/junk-market • Children’s Storytime. 11 a.m., Barnes & Noble, 1201 42nd St. S., Fargo, 701281-1002 or www.bn.com • An Evening of Dance. Performances of work by student dancers and choreographers. 7:30 p.m., Hansen Theatre, MSUM, Moorhead, 218-477-2271 • “Songs of Nature.” Presented by Fargo-Moorhead Chamber Chorale. Tickets available at the door or by calling Sheila at 701-491-2910. 7:30 p.m., Centrum, Knutson Campus Center, Concordia College, Moorhead, www.fmchamberchorale.org 5.11 Sunday • Pepsi Outdoor Archery Challenge. Forest River Rd., 76th Ave. S. & Red River, Fargo, 701-499-7788 or www.fargoparks.com • Mother’s Day at the Zoo. Free admission for moms. 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Red River Zoo, 4255 23rd Ave. S., Fargo, 701-277-9240 or www.redriverzoo.org • Marvelous Mother’s Day. Free admission for moms. 1-5 p.m., The Children’s Museum at Yunker Farm, 1201 28th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-2326102 or www.childrensmuseum-yunker.org

family

5.12 Monday • “Bring it On: The Musical.” 7:30 p.m., Fargodome, 1800 N. University Dr., Fargo, 701-241-9100 or www.fargodome.com 5.13 Tuesday • Community Block Party. 5:30-8 p.m., Clara Barton Park, 1451 6th St. S., Fargo, 701-499-7788 or www.fargoparks.com 5.14 Wednesday • Children’s Storytime. 10 a.m., Barnes & Noble, 1201 42nd St. S., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com

FM RedHawks

5.15 Thursday • FM Kennel Club Dog Agility Trials. 10 a.m., Schollander Pavilion, RRV Fairgrounds, 1805 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-232-7693 or www.fmkennelclub.com • Silver Follies – A Decade of Musicals. Presented by FMCT. 7:30 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701235-6778 or www.fmct.org 5.16 Friday • FM Kennel Club Dog Agility Trials. 8 a.m., Schollander Pavilion, RRV Fairgrounds, 1805 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-232-7693 or www.fmkennelclub.com • Silver Follies – A Decade of Musicals. Presented by FMCT. 7:30 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701235-6778 or www.fmct.org

5.17 Saturday • Fargo Birding Festival. 7 a.m.-noon, Forest River Rd., 76th Ave. S. & Red River, Fargo, 701-499-7788 or www.fargoparks.com • FM Kennel Club Dog Agility Trials. 8 a.m., Schollander Pavilion, RRV Fairgrounds, 1805 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-232-7693 or www.fmkennelclub.com • HCCA Art Olson Swap Meet. 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Bonanzaville, 1351 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-282-2822 or www.bonanzaville.org • Children’s Storytime. 11 a.m., Barnes & Noble, 1201 42nd St. S., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com • Syttende Mai Pølsefest. Hot dogs in lefse sale. 11:30 a.m.1:30 p.m. or while supplies last, Hjemkomst Center, 202 1st Ave. N., Moorhead, 218-299-5515 or www.hcscconline.org

thaNk YoU 2014 North Dakota PicNic

sPoNsors Pifer auction realty

University of North Dakota alumni association & Foundation

Western state Bank

Bell Mortgage / Paramount Properties of aZ

EVENt Booth

family

co-sPoNsor:

PioNEEr

roUGhriDEr

anderson Financial Group, LLc café Delight carlynn Distributors Dakota Boys & Girls ranch Dakota rEit Dakota Wild First international Bank & trust

titLE sPoNsor:

iN kiND / GENEraL DoNatioNs JDs Gems Maple river Winery Mayville state University Foundation Mesa Police Department Norrdesign one oak Place respect realty

Border states Electric Bob & karla kieser Darlene & Mike Wolf Dot’s Pretzels FM redhawks GiaNts snacks kln Family Brands

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ordean and carol oen Prairie knights casino sandy Pavlish target texas roadhouse theodore roosevelt Medora Foundation

April/May 2014

5.17 Saturday (cont.) • 4 Luv of Dog Rescue’s Meet the Dogs. Visit dogs available for adoption. 1-3 p.m., PetSmart, 1630 13th Ave. E., West Fargo, www.4luvofdog.org • AAA Safety Safari. 3-7 p.m., Red River Zoo, 4255 23rd Ave. S., Fargo, 701-277-9240 or www.redriverzoo.org • Nature Adventure. 6-8:30 p.m., Trollwood Park, 3664 Elm St. N., Fargo, 701-499-7788 or www.fargoparks.com • Silver Follies – A Decade of Musicals. Presented by FMCT. 7:30 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct.org 5.18 Sunday • FM Kennel Club Dog Agility Trials. 8 a.m., Schollander Pavilion, RRV Fairgrounds, 1805 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-232-7693 or www.fmkennelclub.com • HCCA Art Olson Swap Meet. 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Bonanzaville, 1351 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-282-2822 or www.bonanzaville.org • Spring Art-Mania. Ages 6-12. Learn new art techniques and experiment with watercolors, chalks, pastels, etc. 1-3 p.m., Veterans Memorial Arena, 1201 7th Ave. E., West Fargo, 701-433-5360 or www.wfparks.org

• Silver Follies – A Decade of Musicals. Presented by FMCT. 2 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct.org • Summer Grind. Registration at 4:30 p.m., event starts at 5 p.m., Dike West, 310 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-499-7788 or www.fargoparks.com 5.19 Monday • Swing into Summer Safety & Fun. 5-7 p.m., Scheels Arena, 5225 31st Ave. S., Fargo, 701-356-7656 or www.scheelsarena.com 5.20 Tuesday • Community Block Party. 5:30-8 p.m., Madison Park, 3010 11th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-499-7788 or www.fargoparks.com 5.21 Wednesday • Children’s Storytime. 10 a.m., Barnes & Noble, 1201 42nd St. S., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com • Renter Rights & Responsibilities presented by The Village Family Service Center. Learn the essential skills to help find and keep a decent, safe, and affordable place to live. This workshop will help you understand your rights and responsibilities as a renter. Register at http://renters.eventbrite. com. 6-7 p.m., Dakota Medical Foundation, 4141 28th Ave. S., Fargo

Crying happens. Shaking cannot.

caring hands Babies cry. Some cry a lot. As a parent or caregiver, you may feel frustrated, helpless and overwhelmed, which is normal. But shaking a baby is never an option. Shaking a baby can cause brain damage, or even death. When your baby cries, you need a plan to help stay calm.

• Put the baby in a safe place such as in a crib or playpen in another room. • B reathe slowly and count to 10. • S tep outside onto a patio or front step for fresh air. • C all a trusted friend and family member to talk to. Have that person come over if possible.

“Stay Calm, Walk Away, Call a Friend.” Learn more at sanfordhealth.org, keyword: kohl’s caring hands. 1200-12700-0024 12/13

April/May 2014

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family

5.22 Thursday • The Emma Awards. Presented by FMCT. 7:30 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct.org

4.26 Red River Zoo Party for the Planet

5.24 Saturday • FM Mounted Posse Horse Show. 7 a.m., Horse Arena, RRV Fairgrounds, 1805 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-428-3397 or www.fmmountedposse.com • Children’s Storytime. 11 a.m., Barnes & Noble, 1201 42nd St. S., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com 5.26 Monday • FM RedHawks vs. Sioux Falls Canaries. 6 p.m., Newman Outdoor Field, 1515 15th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-235-6161 or www.fmredhawks.com 5.27 Tuesday • FM RedHawks vs. Sioux Falls Canaries. 11 a.m., Newman Outdoor Field, 1515 15th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-235-6161 or www.fmredhawks.com • Community Block Party. 5:30-8 p.m., Osgood School Park, 5400 44th Ave. S., Fargo, 701-499-7788 or www.fargoparks.com 5.28 Wednesday • Children’s Storytime. 10 a.m., Barnes & Noble, 1201 42nd St. S., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com • FM RedHawks vs. Sioux Falls Canaries. 7:02 p.m., Newman Outdoor Field, 1515 15th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-235-6161 or www.fmredhawks.com 5.29 Thursday • Veterans Memorial Celebration. Event to honor the region’s veterans, military, and their families. 3-7 p.m., Bonanzaville, 1351 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-282-2822 or www.bonanzaville.org • FirstLink & FM RedHawks Volunteer Appreciation Night. An event honoring volunteers in the FM area. Ice cream social at 6 p.m., game starts at 7:02 p.m., Newman Outdoor Field, 1515 15th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-235-6161 or www.fmredhawks.com • FM RedHawks vs. Sioux City Explorers. 7:02 p.m., Newman Outdoor Field, 1515 15th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-235-6161 or www.fmredhawks.com 5.30 Friday • FM RedHawks vs. Sioux City Explorers. 7:02 p.m., Newman Outdoor Field, 1515 15th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-235-6161 or www.fmredhawks.com 5.31 Saturday • Mary-Alice & Friends 5K for Stillbirth Research & Awareness. 5K, 1-Mile Walk, and Kids Fun Run. Register at http://starlegacyfoundation.org/mary-alice-friends-5k. Registration opens at 8 a.m., Lindenwood Park Main Shelter, 1905 Roger Maris Dr., Fargo, www.facebook.com/maryalice5k • Savor & Stroll. A culinary walk benefiting the Edith Sanford Breast Cancer Foundation. 10 a.m., Bluestem Center for the Arts, 801 50th Ave. S.W., Moorhead, 218-477-6500 or www.trollwood.org • Children’s Storytime. 11 a.m., Barnes & Noble, 1201 42nd St. S., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com • Summer Camp in the Xerzone. Camp songs, tug-of-war, arts and crafts. 1-3 p.m., Fercho YMCA, 400 1st Ave. S., Fargo, 701-293-9622 or www.ymcacassclay.org

family

• FM RedHawks vs. Sioux City Explorers. 6 p.m., Newman Outdoor Field, 1515 15th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-235-6161 or www.fmredhawks.com

PUBLIC LIBRARIES

Call or visit the library for more information. Preregistration may be required. Fargo Public Main Library

102 3rd St. N., Fargo, 701-241-1472 or www.fargolibrary.org • Chess Club. Open to players of all ages and abilities. Thursdays, 5:30-8:30 p.m. • Potato Chip Science with Allen Kurzweil. Apr. 2, 6:30 p.m. • Muslim Journeys – Points of View. Apr. 3, 6:30 p.m. • Baby Rhyme Time. Lapsit storytime for babies (birth-18 mos). Apr. 3 & 17, May 1 & 15, 6:30 p.m. • Game of Thrones Gathering. Costumes encouraged. Apr. 5, 2:30 p.m. • Visit with Minnesota Author Scott Thoma. Apr. 8, 7 p.m. • Teen Crafts. Pre-registration required. Apr. 10 & 25, 4:30 p.m. • Little Squirt Science. For preschoolers. Pre-registration required. Apr. 10 & May 8, 6:30 p.m.; Apr. 11 & May 9, 11 a.m. • Paws for Reading. Pre-registration required. Apr. 12 & May 10, 1-3 p.m. • Lemony Snicket Book Club. Grades 3-6. Pre-registration required. Apr. 15, 4 p.m. • Music & Mayhem: Toddler Dance Party. For kids (ages 2-5) and their parents. Apr. 22, 10 a.m. • Fans of Anne Ice Cream Social. Celebrate L.M. Montgomery’s “Anne of Green Gables” with crafts, activities, and an ice cream social. Pre-registration required. Apr. 26, 2 p.m. • Garden Series. Apr. 29, May 6, 13 & 20, 6:30 p.m. • Current History Book Club. Apr. 29 & May 27, 7 p.m. • Saturday Storytime for Toddlers & Preschoolers. Apr. 19 & May 17, 10 a.m. • Computer Classes. Call for details and to register

villagefamilymag.org

April/May 2014

Dr. James Carlson Library

2801 32nd Ave. S., Fargo, 701-476-4040 or www.fargolibrary.org • Baby Rhyme Time. Lapsit storytime for babies (birth-18 mos). Apr. 3 & 17, May 1 & 15, 10 a.m. • Tea Time Book Club. Apr. 6, 2:30 p.m. • Teen Crafts. Pre-registration required. Apr. 8 & 22, 4:30 p.m. • Manga Club for Teens. Apr. 9 & May 14, 6:30 p.m. • Little Squirt Science. For preschoolers. Pre-registration required. Apr. 10 & May 8, 11 a.m. • Free Friday Movie. Apr. 11 & May 9, 1 p.m. • Saturday Storytime for Toddlers & Preschoolers. Apr. 12 & May 10, 10 a.m. • Unraveled Crafters Club. Apr. 13 & 27, 1 p.m. • Music & Mayhem: Toddler Dance Party. For kids (ages 2-5) and their parents. Apr. 24, 10 a.m. • Magic Tree House Book Club. Grades 1-4. Pre-registration required. Apr. 27 & May 18, 2 p.m. • Computer Classes. Call for details and to register Northport Branch

2714 N. Broadway, Fargo, 701-476-4026 or www.fargolibrary.org • Saturday Storytime for Toddlers & Preschoolers. Apr. 5 & May 3, 10 a.m. • Northport Classic Book Club. Apr. 16 & May 21, 6:30 p.m. West Fargo Public Library

109 3rd St. E., West Fargo, 701-433-5460 or www.westfargolibrary.org

• Homework Center. Grades 1-8. Mon.-Thurs., 3-5:30 p.m. on days school is in session • Children’s Simply Stories. Tuesdays, 10:15 a.m. • Storytime with Project. For preschoolers and their caretakers. Tuesdays, 1:30 p.m.; Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. • Knitty Giddy. Adult group; bring your own supplies. Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. • Ham Radio Operators. Call for details. Wednesdays, 6:45 p.m. • Friday Morning Movies. Fridays (except Apr. 18), 10:30 a.m. • Genealogy Saturdays. A staff genealogist will be available for questions. Saturdays, noon-4 p.m. • Creative Corner. Open to all adults. Registration required. Apr. 9 & 23, May 14 & 28, 12:30 p.m. • Friends of the Library Used Book Sale. Apr. 12, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Apr. 13, 1-4 p.m. • Saturday New Release Movies. Apr. 12 & 26, May 3 & 24, 2 p.m. • Teacups Book Club. Open to all adults. Apr. 14 & May 12, 7 p.m. • Bunny Hop! For preschoolers and their caretakers. Apr. 16, 11-11:30 a.m. • Fun with Food: Healthy Snacks. Nutrition program geared for preschoolers and their caretakers. Call to register. Apr. 21, 10:15-11 a.m. • Let’s Go Fly a Kite! Make a kite; supplies provided. Apr. 25, 3:30-4:30 p.m. • May Day Basket. Learn to weave a small basket. May 1, 7-8 p.m. • Mother’s Day Card Making. May 3, after the 2 p.m. movie showing

Inspiring dreams

Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch

achievement

news events videos program info

In Minnesota, all children are required to attend a free screening before they enter kindergarten.

Early Childhood Screening is a quick and simple check of how your child is growing and developing. If your child is 3 years old or older call 218-284-3800 for an appointment.

Moorhead Area Public School’s Early Learning Center 218-284-3800 32

April/May 2014

/dakotaranch1952 /DBGRThriftStores /DBGR1952

resources www.dakotaranch.org (All NEW with e-news sign up)

photos @DBGR52

“Miracle on the Prairie, Second Chances” View our new video on YouTube or Web!

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BLOG: dbgr.areavoices.com family

• Cake Decorating Class. Call for supply information and registration. May 8, 6:30-8:30 p.m. • Tech/Computer Classes. Call for details and to register

5.1 Season Opening of Bonanzaville Pioneer Village

Moorhead Public Library

118 5th St. S., Moorhead, 218-233-7594 or www.larl.org • Open Computer Practice. Mondays, 2 p.m. • Origami Club. All ages and experience levels welcome. Mondays, 6:30 p.m. • Storytime Plus. Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m.; second Saturday of the month, 10 a.m. • Storytime. Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. • Baby Bounce. For parents and babies (up to age 2). Thursdays, 10 a.m. • Lego Club. All ages and abilities welcome. Apr. 3 & May 1, 6 p.m.; Apr. 26 & May 24, 2 p.m. • E-reader Basics. Please pre-register. Apr. 3, 6:30 p.m. • Clay County Victory Gardens with Markus Krueger. Apr. 7, 6:30 p.m. • Beginning Genealogy with Les Bakke. Apr. 9, 6:30 p.m. • Make It Yourself: Printmaking. Apr. 10, 7 p.m. • Classics Book Club. Apr. 15 & May 20, 6:30 p.m. • Adult Book Club. Apr. 17 & May 15, 7 p.m. • Waste Art Exhibit Opening. Apr. 22, 4 p.m. • Yarn Circle. Open to all ages and experience levels. Apr. 24, 6:30 p.m. • Author/Illustrator Lea Johnstone. May 3, 1 p.m. • Brain Breaks. Teens can study at the library with breaks for games and snacks. May 5 & May 19, 4 p.m. • Saturday Movie Matinee. May 17, 2 p.m. • Computer Classes. Call for details and to register

CLASSES

Call for information. Pre-registration may be required. The Children’s Museum at Yunker Farm

1201 28th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-232-6102 or www.childrensmuseum-yunker.org • Yunkie Club Early Childhood Family Education

Classes for infants to kindergarten entry. Probstfield Center for Education, 2410 14th St. S., Moorhead, 218284-3400 or https://communityed.moorheadschools.org • Baby Connection • Curious Cruisers • Dynamic Discoverers • Family Fun • Fantastic Fours & Fives • Janeen’s Treasure Box • Make & Take • Monday Play Group • Storybook Science • Wonderful, Wobbly Ones • Wonders of Science Essentia Health OB Education

3000 32nd Ave. S., Fargo, 701-364-8100 or www.essentiahealth.org • Basic Training for New Dads • Breastfeeding Class • Car Seat Safety • Lamaze • Mom’s Helpers • Tender Transitions

family

* AuSome Kids Day Program *

We are a licensed child care facility that offers full day, half day, hourly, and summer care options. Our lesson plans are designed specifically to help children with autism or related behaviors reach their full potential! Your child will enjoy our fun filled atmosphere while learning much needed skills and making friends! Call 701-277-8844 or visit http://ndautismcenter.org for more information.

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April/May 2014

Fargo Moorhead Community Theatre

Moorhead Community Education

• Fairytales & You!

Music-n-Play

701-235-6778 or www.fmct.org

218-284-3400 or https:// communityed.moorheadschools.org

Fargo Park District

www.music-n-play.com

• Accelerated Artists • Penny & Pals Workshop • Teen Art

Plains Art Museum

FM Ambulance

•C ircus Stories • Family Program – Art Kids • Family Program – Art for Two •K id Quest

701-499-7788 or www.fargoparks. com

•S ing n’ Sprout: Christian Parent & Child Music Class

704 1st Ave. N., Fargo, 701-5516100 or www.plainsart.org

701-364-1758 or www.fmambulance.com • B.L.A.S.T. Babysitting Day Camp • Heartsaver CPR • Pediatric First Aid/CPR Fraser, Ltd.

2902 S. University Dr., Fargo, 701-232-3301 or www.fraserltd.org • Adult CPR/First Aid • Infant/Child CPR/First Aid

Parenting Resource Center

701-241-5700 or www.ag.ndsu.edu/ casscountyextension/home-andfamily •P arents Forever Red River Zoo

4255 23rd Ave. S., Fargo, 701-2779240 or www.redriverzoo.org •P int-Size Explorers

HealthSource

3175 Sienna Dr., Ste. 105, Fargo, 701-451-9098 • Eat Well: Food Demystified • Move Well = Live Well • The Real Prescription for Health • Sleep Well: Depleted or Recharged? • Think Well: Our Health on Stress

Sanford Health Community Education

701-234-5570, 877-234-4240 or www.sanfordhealth.org •B aby Signs •B aby’s First Ride

Indoor Birthday Party Place!

• Better Choices, Better Health • Breastfeeding Beginnings • Caring for Your Newborn • C.A.R.S. (Children & Restraint Systems) • Family & Friends CPR Adult • Family & Friends CPR Infants & Children • Infant Massage • Labor – What to Expect • Lamaze • Our Family is Having a Baby • Safe & Sound – Preparing Your Home for Baby Trollwood Performing Arts School

218-477-6500 or www.trollwood.org • Belly Dancing • Swing Dance U of M Extension

218-236-2005 or www.extension. umn.edu/ParentsForever • Parents Forever The Village Family Service Center

701-451-4900 or www.TheVillageFamily.org

• Anger Management • Mindfulness • Parenting with Love & Logic • Relationships 101 The Village Financial Resource Center

701-235-3328 or www.HelpWithMoney.org

• Bankruptcy Education • Homebuyer Education • Money Management Education • Tenant Education YMCA

701-293-9622, 701-281-0126 or www.ymcacassclay.org • Fitter Faster Swim Clinic • Healthy Family Home • LIVESTRONG Includes: • Bounce N Slide • 16’ Slide • Western Shoot Out • Giant Birthday Chair • Big Screen TV 15 Children Allowed Adults Welcome

MUSEUMS & EXHIBITS Call for additional information. Cass County Museum

1351 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701282-2822 or www.bonanzaville.org • Resurrected Treasures: Recently Acquired Artifacts. Ends May 26

Games Galore Provides the Following: • Professional Attendent • Plates, Cups, Napkins, Utensils • Tables/Chairs • Fridge/Freezer • Pizza Ovens

Concordia College Cyrus M. Running Gallery

901 8th St. S., Moorhead, 218-299-4623

• Senior Art Exhibition. Apr. 9-May 4

April/May 2014

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Fargo Air Museum

1609 19th Ave. N., Fargo, 701293-8043 or www.fargoairmuseum.org Historical & Cultural Society of Clay County

Hjemkomst Center, 202 1st Ave. N., Moorhead, 218-299-5511 or www.hcscconline.org

• FMVA BIG Art Show. Begins Apr. 8 • Minnesota Disasters. Ends May 26 • Doing Our Part: Clay County in WWII MSUM Art Gallery

Roland Dille Center for the Arts, MSUM, Moorhead, 218-477-2930 • MSUM Student Juried Exhibition. Ends Apr. 10 • BFA Student Exhibition #2. Apr. 14-24 • BFA Certificate & Exhibition Class. Apr. 28-May 16

Plains Art Museum

704 1st Ave. N., Fargo, 701-5516100 or www.plainsart.org •R ed River Reciprocity: Contemporary Ceramics in MN & ND. Ends May 11 •4 7 Degrees North: Daybreaks at Bad Medicine Lake by Wayne Gudmundson. Begins May 15 The Rourke Art Museum

521 Main Ave., Moorhead, 218236-8861 or www.therourke.org •O f Memory, Bone, & Myth: National Juried Photography Show. Begins Apr. 11 • Warren Kessler & Jon Offutt: Landscapes on Canvas & in Glass. Ends May 11 • Rich Borge & Jon Borge: Objects Found & Claimed. Begins May 16

MSUM Planetarium

Bridges Hall, MSUM, Moorhead, 218-477-2920 • The Mars Show. Ends May 17 • Cosmic Colors: An Adventure Along the Spectrum. Ends May 19

4.26 FM Derby Girls Bout (Photo credit: Two Birds Photography)

Endless rounds of fun! fargogolf.net family

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April/May 2014

YOUR FAMILY z consumer

Spring Cleaning in 30 Minutes or Less…

Guaranteed! By Megan Bartholomay

I know what you’re thinking: 30 minutes cannot possibly be long enough to complete all your spring cleaning. Well, that depends on how you look at it. Most of us don’t have endless amounts of time to spend cleaning our houses, and more than that, who really wants to? It’s not fun. So, what’s this magical equation for cleaning an entire house in 30 minutes or less? It’s going to involve a little bit of preplanning, some bargaining with yourself over what needs to be cleaned and what can wait, and, of course, enlisting everyone in the house to assist you. The idea is to break up the cleaning tasks into 30-minute segments. You can focus on one or a few things for those short spurts of time and then reward yourself by taking a 10-to15 minute break between segments. Over the course of an eight-hour day, including down time, you can easily get 10 to 12 half-hour tasks knocked out. Is spring cleaning starting to sound a bit more appealing yet?

Kitchen: • Clean oven and stovetop (15 minutes) • Clean out refrigerator (20 minutes) • Pull out and clean under refrigerator and stove (15 minutes) • Wash cabinet doors, drawers, and knobs (10 minutes) • Wipe down all appliances (5 minutes)

The Ultimate Checklist

Living Room: • Clean baseboards and moulding (10 minutes) • Dust blinds (20 minutes) • Dust electronics and artwork (10 minutes) • Vacuum or wipe down sofa (10 minutes) • Vacuum or dust ceiling fans and vent covers (10 minutes)

You probably know what you want to achieve when you start a cleaning project. But good intentions go awry when you approach cleaning higgledy-piggledy, get distracted by outside influences, or simply procrastinate. JoAnne Halvorson, owner of the Maid Brigade of Fargo Moorhead, says to start your spring cleaning by listing all the areas or rooms of your house you think need the most attention. Once you do that, go back to each room or area on the list and think of specific cleaning tasks. Then, estimate the time needed to complete each task. You can even take it one step further and mark the highest priority items with an asterisk. A sample checklist might look like this: 36

April/May 2014

Bathrooms: • Scrub tile and grout lines (15 minutes) • Clean out vanity and cabinets (25 minutes) • Dust light fixtures (5 minutes) Bedrooms: • Gather all bedding and curtains to wash (15 minutes) • Dust blinds (20 minutes) • Vacuum or dust ceiling fans and vent covers (10 minutes) • Vacuum and flip mattress (5 minutes)

The idea is to do what you can in about a 30-minute block of time and stop. If you need to go back to an area, take a break and then start your next 30-minute cycle.

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family

DID YOU KNOW?

You can deodorize your mattress:

Begin the task of deodorizing your mattress by thoroughly vacuuming the bare mattress. Then, sprinkle with baking soda; vacuum up soda after 30 minutes.

Dryer sheets and fabric softeners can leave a film on your lint screen:

It’s not enough to remove the lint build-up between laundry loads—the film blocks air flow. You should wash the screen with hot, soapy water every few months to keep things running efficiently.

Team Effort

If you’re not the only one living in your house, you shouldn’t be the only one cleaning it. Enlist the help of the other adults and don’t forget your children. Having the kids help out with spring cleaning can be as easy as making them their own checklists for various spaces. This works well for older kids (ages 10 and up). Bedroom: • Clean under the bed • Clean desks and cabinets • Dust ceiling fan, shelves, and windowsills • Put all video games, CDs, and DVDs into their cases and store • Remove bedding and vacuum mattress (See deodorizing tip in sidebar) Closet: • Organize shoes and hang up all coats • Put mittens, scarves, and hats into their own bin or bag • Sweep or vacuum closet floor Common Areas: • Wipe down all switch plates • Vacuum vent covers • Wash doors and doorknobs

family

Soaking a shower head in vinegar will remove hard water deposits:

Fill a heavy, one-gallon storage bag with one to two cups of vinegar. Place the bag over the showerhead so it is submerged in the vinegar. Secure it with a twist tie and leave in place for an hour or so.

You can wash your pillows:

Experts recommend you wash your pillows twice a year. Most are machine washable. Use detergent, hot water, and a second rinse and spin for best results. To dry, place in the dryer along with two tennis ball-filled socks (secure the tennis ball inside each sock by tying the end). The tennis balls will help fluff the pillows as they dry.

A second option is to have kids help with projects you are doing—like a little sidekick—which is a great way to involve younger children who still need supervision. These tasks might include: cleaning out the fridge, cabinets, or drawers; dusting shelves or furniture; cleaning chair or table legs; or putting old bills and confidential paperwork through a paper shredder. Of course, with a little helper along, you may have to extend your estimated task completion times, but learning how to clean is a valuable life skill.

Cleaning Tools

Once you’ve got your lists, your next step is to make sure you have some essential cleaning gear on hand so you don’t run out of supplies in the middle of your efforts. There are about a million different products out there, all promising the cleanest clean, and if you have your favorites, by all means stick to them. Halvorson’s must-have items include a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser and SOS pads. “They clean everything!” She also suggests: • Glass cleaner or multipurpose spray • Tile spray • Powdered cleanser • Heavy duty degreaser • Bleach (for disinfecting) • A roll of paper towels • Two sponges (one for bathroom, one for kitchen) • Microfiber cloth (for dusting) • Old toothbrush (for scrubbing tight spaces or grout lines) villagefamilymag.org

Get Started

Plan your spring cleaning at a time when you know those who aren’t pitching in to help will be away or asleep. You’ll get more accomplished. Focus on the once or twice a year, deep-cleaning needs and give the lighter housekeeping duties like dusting and vacuuming their regular attention next week.

Tips From the Pros

Halvorson and manager Mona Simmons urge, “Clean smarter, not harder,” and offer some basic advice to make cleaning a breeze: • Always work from top to bottom— don’t sweep your floors before you dust your tallest cabinet • Avoid distractions—Halvorson never answers her cell phone when she’s cleaning • Stick to one area of your home at a time—Simmons says that hopping around to different areas can derail your progress For more tips, see sidebar.

Beyond The Home

Two additional spring cleaning tasks should be added to your to-do list. Your child’s locker Remember when you sent an enormous backpack filled with school supplies at the beginning of the year? Well, you’ll likely get some of those goodies back, along with a slew of April/May 2014

Your car After a harsh winter, the elements take a toll on our vehicles. We not only track salt, sand, and muddy snow into the vehicle, but we tend to accumulate trash. Cleaning the car is a great task for older kids (and gets them out of the house for a while). Collect trash and other junk built up over the winter months. Look under seats for water bottles or stray food items. Remember, in the • Disinfectant wipes. Don’t winter it’s all frozen, but once the summer send the whole container, temps hit, you could have a real mess on because you might not get BrightNest (iPhone) takes some of the your hands. it back. Pull a half dozen guesswork out of spring cleaning with Shake out floor mats and wipe down wipes from the tub and seats and the interior with a damp cloth. how-to cleaning guides on a variety of put them in a sealable Don’t forget the trunk. Do an inspection projects and so much more. plastic bag. of what’s been left in the back of your car Good Housekeeping @ Home (iPhone • A plastic grocery bag. and get rid of the excess. + Android) offers tricks and tips on There is going to be trash, Finish off the car cleaning by running it a wide range of cleaning techniques no doubt about it. So give through a car wash or, if the weather is nice, to help you breeze right through your them a bag to put their trash getting out the garden hose and some cleaning spring cleaning chores. in first, so they can transfer it supplies and washing it yourself. to a larger receptacle later. It was a rough winter in the F-M area, but spring cleaning season is here. Throw open the • An extra backpack. Roll an extra windows, welcome the fresh air, and just get it done. backpack up and send it with your A North Dakota native, Megan Bartholomay is a freelance student a week or two before school ends. writer and editor with an addiction to grammar, cats, wine, and Over the course of a few days, they can bring home all the treasures they’ve been hiding in their locker throughout the good food. She lives in downtown Fargo with her husband, Mike, school year. and their bevy of fuzzy babies.

graded papers, art projects, used tissues, and gym clothes. Depending on your child’s age, you might have to simply show up and help him or her clean out that locker and ready it for next year’s occupant. If you’re going to have your student clean it out alone, here are a few items to send along to ensure you don’t incur a dirty locker fine from the school:

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April/May 2014

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YOUR FAMILY z feature

Sniffle, Sneeze, Scratch: An Allergy Primer

By Patricia Carlson

For months—no, make that years—Linda Johnson of West Fargo worried about her son’s health. His nose dripped like a leaky faucet. “I don’t think Conner ever had a clean nose,” says Linda. He snored so loudly she could hear him over the television while he slept in his upstairs bedroom. “It was almost like he had apnea,” she says. He had an ever-present stomachache. Worst of all, he was tired to the point of exhaustion when she picked him up from daycare during the week. “We lived less than a mile from our daycare, and Conner would fall asleep on the ride home and stay asleep clear until the next day,” explains Linda. “No supper. No jammies. He’d just sleep 14, 15, 16 hours a night.” Doctors—and there were a handful of them through the years—wrote off Linda’s concerns. “It’s just a cold.” “He needs his tonsils out.” “He’s just worn out from playing at daycare.” These were all things Linda says she heard from physicians when she’d take Conner in for a checkup. It’s not that she suspected something serious or terminal; Linda didn’t honestly think her son was in mortal danger. But not knowing what was wrong with Conner was exhausting and frustrating for the single mom. “It’s a hard battle. At least three doctors told me there was nothing wrong with him,” she says. “There were nights I’d come home and cry and wonder why someone couldn’t give me a straight answer.” 40

April/May 2014

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Finally, when Conner was about 4, Linda decided to trust her mother’s intuition and started gathering evidence. She documented Conner’s eating habits and recorded him sleeping. She jotted down his symptoms when things seemed to get worse. She took pictures of Conner’s nose to show how raw his nasal passages had grown from the constant sinus drip. Linda began to suspect Conner had allergies, so she booked an appointment with an allergist.

The Basics

According to KidsHealth.org, an allergy is an abnormal immune response to things that are usually harmless to most people. Common allergens—the things that cause allergies—are dust, pollen, certain foods, medications, insect bites and stings, mold, chemicals, and animals. “About 20 percent of the population is affected by allergies, and allergies have a great impact on your quality of life,” says Dr. Susan Mathison, an ear, nose, and throat specialist at Catalyst Medical Center in Fargo. KidsHealth.org explains when you’re allergic to something your immune system mistakenly believes this substance is harmful to your body. Once that happens, your body begins fighting that allergen by creating a variety of chemicals. One of the main chemicals is called histamine, and it’s responsible for most of the symptoms you’ll experience in an allergic reaction. Symptoms can be mild or severe. Sneezing, watery eyes and nose, itching, hives, and coughing are some of the milder, but annoying, symptoms. More dangerous symptoms can include difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat. This is called anaphylaxis and can be life threatening. In most cases, a person experiencing anaphylaxis needs to immediately be given a medicine called epinephrine. Epinephrine relaxes the muscles in your airways and tightens your blood vessels so your blood, which has rushed away from your brain to produce the chemicals needed to fight the allergen, can begin pumping safely back to your brain. Many people who know they have a severe allergy to, say, peanuts or bee stings, carry an injectable form of epinephrine, called an EpiPen, with them so symptoms of anaphylaxis can be treated right away. family

About 20% of the population is affected by allergies...

To be clear, just because your parent has an allergy doesn’t mean you’ll get it, too. And, says KidsHealth.org, “A person usually doesn’t inherit a particular allergy, just the likelihood of having allergies.”

Testing

No one knows for sure if you are born allergic to something or if an allergy develops. “That’s the $100 million question,” says Dr. Woei Yeang Eng, an allergy and asthma specialist at Sanford Health. “People are still studying this.” Eng says some researchers believe allergies are hereditary, but there is no definitive evidence. “The only thing we can say for now, with all the research data available, is that if your parent has an allergy or asthma you have a higher chance of developing those kinds of problems in your life,” he explains. “But we can’t say for sure that if your mom has asthma, you’ll have it. We can’t say that for sure.”

So you think you have an allergy. Now what? Like Linda did for her son, Conner, you’ll probably want to visit a doctor who specializes in allergies (called an allergist) or one who specializes in ear, nose, and throat problems. Expect to answer questions about your symptoms: how often they appear, family history, and how you’ve tried to treat your symptoms in the past. You may have to undergo testing to confirm an allergy. The most common test is a skin prick where the allergist places a drop of solution containing the allergen on your forearm or back. If you develop a raised white bump encircled by itchy red skin—called a wheal—you have a positive result. The skin prick test is most often used to identify allergies to pollen, dust, pet dander, and food, says Eng. Results are quick.

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If it looks like you’re allergic to medications or insect venom, the allergist may perform another fast-acting test, an intradermal test. This is an injection of the allergen just below the skin surface. A wheal indicates a positive result. Blood tests are the best way to determine food allergies because specific antibodies and the amount of antibody in your body can be detected. Blood tests can also tell if a person is outgrowing an allergy. However, it can take a long time to get the results and blood tests cost more than the other tests.

Treatment

The easiest way to treat an allergy is to avoid what you’re allergic to. This is the simplest and safest solution for people with food allergies. You need to be vigilant by reading ingredient labels and notifying organizations like schools or workplaces about the allergy—especially if anaphylaxis is a concern. “You always want to carry that epinephrine just in case,” cautions Eng. Indoor airborne allergies are trickier to avoid and may require extra work around the house. You may want to clean and dust more often. Consider ditching your drapes and carpet, too, as both collect dust. Keep pets out of your bedroom (or don’t have a pet if you have a severe allergy to animals). If you have a mold allergy, stay out of basements and try to keep your bathrooms as clean and dry as possible. Outdoor airborne allergies to things like pollen and ragweed are harder to treat. In many cases, they are seasonal and will flare up during spring and summer. Over-the-counter treatments like Claritin, Allegra, or Benadryl, or nasal sprays that have antihistamine in them can help control your symptoms, but they will not cure your allergies.

If none of those solutions are effective, you may want to consider allergen immunotherapy, or as it’s commonly called, allergy shots. This is a highly effective treatment if you suffer from airborne allergies like pollen, pet dander, and dust, but it won’t work for food allergies. Allergy shots are injections of a small amount of the allergen so your body can begin slowly working to produce non-allergen antibodies. “Patients need to be on these for three to five years but usually get long-lasting immunity,” explains Mathison. “It’s the closest thing to a cure we have and it works for almost 80 percent of people, compared to 20 to 25 percent relief for patients using other prescription methods.” Traditional medicines aren’t the only methods of treating allergies. Homeopathic and nature-based products are effective alternatives for people who wish to try an integrative approach. “Herbal preparations like butterbur, nettles, goldenseal, and supplements like grape seed extract and quercetin may be helpful,” says Mathison. Using a saline (salt water) mist or a Neti pot may help flush out your nose, and saline eye drops may clear out your eyes. The saline helps prevent the allergen from binding to your cells and causing an allergic reaction. Two other treatments are also gaining ground and could have a profound effect in how we treat allergies. Sublingual immunotherapy eliminates injections. The allergist gives a patient small drops of an allergen under the tongue. It’s like getting an allergy shot without the needle! And, a new peanut protein treatment could help allergists desensitize people with peanut allergies. The idea is to eat a small dose of peanut protein every day in hopes of building up a tolerance. The results are promising.

Living With Allergies

Top three men and women overall as well as top three men and women in each of the following age categories: under 14, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60 and over.

April/May 2014

As for Conner, he is now a healthy and happy kindergartner. Testing by Mathison at Catalyst Medical Center showed he was battling a host of allergies that were taking a toll on his immune system. “He is pretty much allergic to everything airborne, especially cottonwood, which is what our property line is lined with,” says his mom. “He’s also allergic to a specific type of mold that’s commonly found in woodchips. And get this, the daycare playground is lined in woodchips. So he was virtually rolling around in his own allergen three times a day. It’s no wonder he was exhausted.” Conner is also allergic to wheat, eggs, dairy, cats, and dogs. Linda says they practice avoidance as much as possible. “We have undergone a huge lifestyle change in terms of our diet,” she says. “The change has been remarkable. Conner is a happier kid now. He has so much energy sometimes it’s hard to put him to bed! And he doesn’t have that constant tummy ache anymore.” Dr. Mathison is treating Conner with allergy drops and recommends over-the-counter medications when his airborne allergies flare in the spring and summer. So far, everything is working well. Linda says Conner is finally able to have the life he deserves. And she’s finally getting those nasal drip-free pictures she’s always longed for. “I didn’t have a picture with him in it with a clean nose for almost five years,” she says. “Now I do!” Patricia Carlson is a freelance writer from Dilworth whose work regularly appears in publications across the country. She also crafts strategic website and marketing content for small businesses. Check out her work at www.patriciacarlsonfreelance.com. villagefamilymag.org

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ALLERGIES BY THE NUMBERS

Nearly 8% of adults in the United States have Hay Fever (allergic rhinitis)

30%

Between 10-30% of people worldwide experience Hay Fever

UP TO

15 MILLION AMERICANS HAVE FOOD ALLERGIES

FOOD ALLERGIES AFFECT

1 IN EVERY 13 U.S. CHILDREN

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FOOD ALLERGY RESEARCH & EDUCATION

April/May 2014

Financial Counselor

BULLYING in school

Certified Financial Counselor The Village Family Service Center

Principal Grace Lutheran School

Morgan Almer

Q:How can I tell if my spending is out of control?

To help identify the danger signals associated with overspending, financial counselors at The Village give the following 10 warning signs to determine if spending is out of control. 1. Purchases hidden from others. 2. Bills paid late or ignored. 3. Checking accounts routinely overdrawn. 4. Credit essential to maintain current lifestyle level. 5. Unwilling to review how money is spent. 6. Unaware of how much is owed. 7. Items routinely purchased, and then returned. 8. Shopping used as a salve for emotional stress. 9. Unwilling to set financial goals. 10. Afraid to check credit report and score. If you identify with any of the actions, seek help immediately. The problem will not resolve itself.

The Village Family Service Center 1201 25th St. S., Fargo 701-235-3328 or 1-800-450-4019 www.TheVillageFamily.org www.HelpWithMoney.org

Jean Syverson

Q:As a parent, what can I do if my child is being bullied?

Bullying can affect the child being bullied, the classroom function, morale, and the family/school relationship. It is important schools deal with bullying as a serious issue and work to prevent bullying before it starts. At Grace Lutheran School, we encourage parents to: • Listen to children. Allow them to talk about school and other kids in class, so you can identify any problems. • Take their concerns of bullying seriously. • Watch for symptoms of bullying such as withdrawal or a drop in grades. • Talk to the school immediately if you suspect bullying. • Encourage a loving, caring environment between students at all times. Equipping our children to stand up to bullying will provide them with the tools to be happier and well adjusted in their school surroundings.

Grace Lutheran School 1025 14th Ave. S., Fargo 701-232-7747 www.GraceLutheranSchool.org

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Q: A:

hy do families pretend that everything is well W with an addicted family member even though they’re spinning out of control?

Your family dynamics are similar to the addict’s experience of a downward spiral of their disease. This often starts with denial as it is at the heart of any addictive system. Families often succumb to dysfunctional family rules such as the “Don’t Talk Rule.” They learn how “not” to talk honestly about the things they see, hear, feel, and think. Your recognition of this problem is an opportunity for you to begin to break that silence. ShareHouse has online resources at www.ShareHouse.org. Click on the “Ask A Counselor” link or you can call ShareHouse at 701-282-6561. ShareHouse offers a free Family Education Program on Monday evenings from 5:30-8:30 PM at our outpatient facility.

ShareHouse, Inc. 701-282-6561 www.ShareHouse.org

Rev. Tim Bauer

Q: A:

hen I was drinking and using, I hurt a lot of W people. How do I handle this?

You’re being honest about what you’ve done and that can hurt, too. Spiritually, honesty will help you heal in ways that are deep and real. Step 4 of the 12 Steps of AA says that a “fearless moral inventory” is necessary in recovery. This lets us face our character defects and honestly look at our attitudes and behaviors. This isn’t a one-time event but an ongoing discovery process that allows serenity to become a way of life. Want to talk? Call Lost and Found Ministry at 218.287.2089 or email us at info@lostandfoundministry. org. Lost and Found Ministry is a Christian ministry of healing for those who struggle with addictions. We can help.

Lost and Found Ministry 218-287-2089 www.LostAndFoundMinistry.org

YOUR FAMILY z food & fun

Fancy Spring Flower Fun Fruit Salad • 1 20-oz. can chunk pineapple in juice • 1 10-oz. can mandarin oranges in juice • 11⁄2 cups of honeydew melon cut in small chunks • ½ lb. fresh strawberries, sliced • 1 small package vanilla pudding (not instant) • 2 bananas, sliced just before serving Open each can of fruit. Drain pineapple juice into one container and mandarin orange juice into another. Measure out all of the pineapple juice and finish up with the mandarin orange juice to make 11⁄2 cups total juice. Mix the pineapple chunks, oranges, melon, and strawberries in a large bowl. In a small pot on the stove, add 11⁄2 cups of the combined juices and the pudding mix. Bring to a full boil and stir until smooth. Cool the pudding mixture and pour over the fruit. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight. Add sliced bananas before serving.

• Multi-colored tissue paper • Pencil • Scissors • Pipe cleaners • Scotch tape Trace child’s handprint on tissue paper. Cut out several tissue paper handprints (older children can do this themselves). Place 8 to 10 handprints on the end of a pipe cleaner. Wrap with a piece of Scotch tape. Combine several pipe cleaners with handprints attached to form a bouquet.

(Submitted by: Infant Room at Nokomis I)

Johanna, Age 1

Book-Page Print • Scanned book page or piece of sheet music, printed on 8.5- by 11-inch paper • Computer with Internet access or clipart software • Printer

Search for free clipart images online or use your clipart software, select an image, and save it to your computer. Open Microsoft Word (or whichever computer program you are most comfortable with) and create a new 8.5- by 11-inch document. Place the saved clipart within the document. Insert the book page or sheet music in your printer and print the clipart document onto the paper. family

villagefamilymag.org

April/May 2014

YOUR FAMILY z words & wisdom

Ten Rules for the Good Life

April prepares her green traffic light and the world thinks Go. —Christopher Morley

Composed and compiled by Thomas Jefferson.

1. Never put off till tomorrow what you can do today.

To experience peace does not mean that your life is always blissful. It means that you are capable of tapping into a blissful state of mind amidst the normal chaos of a hectic life.

—Jill Bolte Taylor

The mother-child relationship is paradoxical and, in a sense, tragic. It requires the most intense love on the mother’s side, yet this very love must help the child grow away from the mother, and to become fully independent. —Erich Fromm

If You Bring Love

At a certain moment in Friedrich Nietzsche's life, the idea came to him of what he called “the love of your fate.” Whatever your fate is, whatever the heck happens, you say, “This is what I need.” It may look like a wreck, but go at it as though it were an opportunity, a challenge. If you bring love to that moment—not discouragement—you will find the strength is there. Any disaster that you can survive is an improvement in your character, your stature, and your life. What a privilege! This is when 46

April/May 2014

2. Never trouble another for what you can do yourself. 3. Never spend your money before you have it. 4. Never buy what you do not want because it is cheap; it will never be dear to you. 5. Pride costs us more than hunger, thirst, and cold. 6. Never repent of having eaten too little. 7. Nothing is troublesome that we do willingly. 8. Don’t let the evils which have never happened cost you pain. 9. Always take things by their smooth handle. 10. When angry, count to ten before you speak; if very angry, count to one hundred.

I think that no matter how old or infirm I may become, I will always plant a large garden in the spring. Who can resist the feelings of hope and joy that one gets from participating in nature’s rebirth? —Edward Giobbi

the spontaneity of your own nature will have a chance to flow. Then, when looking back at your life, you will see that the moments which seemed to be great failures followed by wreckage were the incidents that shaped the life you have now. You’ll see this is really true. Nothing can happen to you that is not positive. Even though it looks and feels at the moment like a negative crisis, it is not. The crisis throws you back, and when you are required to exhibit strength, it comes. —Joseph Campbell

villagefamilymag.org

family

You Don’t Have To Go It Alone

For over 120 years, The Village Family Service Center has helped area children and families improve their lives. The Village was founded as a home for orphaned children, and for decades provided a sanctuary for those who often had no other place to go. Times have changed, and we discovered it wasn’t just kids who needed help. Every year, The Village reaches out to more than 75,000 people, and we are constantly adapting our services to meet the needs of modern life. From individual and family counseling to child care, mentoring and adoption to financial counseling and workplace issues, The Village is a place for all individuals and families. As the definition of family evolves, so do we and no matter how you define family, at The Village, you will never go it alone.

Find us online: Facebook.com/TheVillageFamily @VillageFamily TheVillage.AreaVoices.com

norTH DAkoTA LocATIons Bismarck • Devils Lake • Fargo Grand Forks • Jamestown • Minot • Williston

1201 25th St. S., Fargo, ND 1-800-627-8220 www.TheVillageFamily.org

MInnesoTA LocATIons Alexandria • Crystal • Detroit Lakes • Fergus Falls • Mahnomen Moorhead • Park Rapids • Roseau • St. Cloud Warroad • White Earth

Tired of the ride? If you’ve tried all the diets, weight-loss programs, attempted portion control and committed to an exercise program, but no matter what you do, the weight just won’t come off, the trusted team of skilled professionals at Sanford Health Weight-Loss Surgery can smooth the ride. Learn your weight-loss surgery options at one of several free weight-loss surgery informational seminars offered each month in Fargo.

For more information or to register: sanfordhealth.org (keyword: weight loss seminar), or call 701-234-4111. Sanford Health is designated as a Bariatric Center of Excellence by MBSAQIP and has earned Blue Cross Blue Shield’s Blue Distinction Centers designation for Bariatric Surgery.

1500-55205-0024 Rev. 2/14

Luis Garcia, MD,

FACS, MBA

Matthew Fabian, DO, FACS