Family BODY CONFIDENCE: The beginning of One woman’s journey
WICHITA
M A G A Z I N E
WichitaFamily.com l NOVEMBER 2009
A CLOSER LOOK...
...at the city of Newton. Consider Newton...Life as it Should Be
THINKING ABOUT ADOPTING? Helpful insights into the process of adopting a child.
Inside: Thanksgiving Dinner from start to finish
Name That Subject Each of the following is a common school subject. Fill in the blanks to name that subject. 1)
__ A T __
3)
H I __ __ O R __
2)
What Rhymes with…
4) 5) 6) 7)
1.
5.
7.
2.
3.
8.
9.
6.
S __ A __ I S __
__ C I __ N __ E A __ T
__ U __ I C
Answers: 1) Math, 2) English, 3) History, 4) Spanish, 5) Science, 6) Art, 7) Music
List 10 words that rhyme with “write.”
E __ __ L I S __
4.
10.
Some answers: bite, bright, fight, fright, height, kite, light, night, plight, right
Joke s and R iddle s
A: Because the class was so bright!
Q: Why did the teacher wear sunglasses?
A: By using a ruler.
Q: How do you get straight As?
Fact or Fiction?
Roman Numerals Challenge
The One-Room Schoolhouse Imagine sitting in a classroom surrounded by students of all ages and being taught by the same teacher year after year? Sounds wild, huh, but that is what students once experienced. Back in the 1800s, most schools were small one-room buildings called “schoolhouses.” Each schoolhouse had just one teacher to teach first through eighth grade. Students would come to the schoolhouse by foot and by horse. There was very little paper at the time, so students would do their work on slates with slate pencils. Along with their studies, students would help the teachers take care of the schoolhouse and the surrounding yard.
COLORING PICTURE
Although not as common, Roman numerals are still used today in outlines, table of contents and so forth. Here are some questions about Roman numerals. How many can you answer correctly?
1) IIIII is the Roman numeral for 5. Fact or Fiction? 2) C is the Roman numeral for 50. Fact or Fiction? 3) I is the Roman numeral for 1. Fact or Fiction? 4) D is the Roman numeral for 1,000. Fact or Fiction? 5) X is the Roman numeral for 10. Fact or Fiction? 6) XIV is the Roman numeral for 16. Fact or Fiction? 7) XC is the Roman numeral for 90. Fact or Fiction? 8) CM is the Roman numeral for 900. Fact or Fiction? 9) LV is the Roman numeral for 65. Fact or Fiction? 10) MDCCC is the Roman numeral for 1800. Fact or Fiction?
Answers: 1) Fiction, V stands for 5, 2) Fiction, L stands for 50; C stands for 100, 3) Fact, 4) Fiction, M stands for 1,000; D stands for 500, 5) Fact, 6) Fiction, XIV stands for 14; XVI stands for 16, 7) Fa ct, 8) Fact, 9) Fiction, LV stands for 55; LXV stands for 65, 10) Fact
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Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
3
What Foster Parenting Has Done for Us (and why you should consider it, too) Four dozen photographs matted in mismatched frames of different sizes circle the living room of the Smiths’ Hutchinson, Kansas, home. The forty-eight faces are smiling or laughing, cradling a pet or hugging a friend, or making another memory. All 48 faces are children they love. Gary and Carla Smith aren’t typical parents. The Hutchinson couple—she works with a drug/alcohol prevention organization and he is an appliance salesman at Lowe’s Home Improvement—have been foster care parents for five years with Saint Francis Community Services to children of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. The Smiths’ “Wall of Fame” that has evolved in their living room includes a photograph of each child they’ve cared for. Just as the Smiths have impacted the lives of these children, each one left his or her mark on the Smith family—shaping its dynamic and filling it full of love. “I never thought we’d care for this many children in just five years,” said Carla, 38. At times, she and Gary, 54, have had mostly teens in their home, and they typically foster three or four at a time. “And, I never could
have imagined that we’d get this close to all of them. Our home is full, but so are our hearts.”
Foster care wasn’t something the Smiths planned to do. The couple had a spacious house and the time to devote to children, but they didn’t have any. Gary’s daughter, now in her 30s, lived away. They helped a single mother in their neighborhood by babysitting, and Carla, an artist, built woodworking projects or painted pictures with other kids who lived nearby. Even so, they wanted to do more. “God was calling us to foster care,” Carla said. “We felt like it was something we were supposed to do.” The Smiths completed the requisite paperwork and training, including 30 hours of classes with an accredited foster care program. They were assigned a case worker, who would become an integral part of their resource support staff. They also formed their own house rules, which were printed on poster board and tacked to their dining room wall. Over time, the Smiths established themselves as a foster care resource to mostly teenage boys.
4 Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
House rules, such as no drugs or alcohol, respect others, and take responsibility for your actions, continue to lay the foundation for all of the children who live with the Smiths. They host regular family meetings, referring to the house rules over and over again—especially when there is a new face at the table. They begin each meeting with positive reinforcement by recognizing the kids’ strengths, but, at the same time, each meeting is as much about teaching as it is parenting, Carla said. That’s been their philosophy all along. “A lot of times, there isn’t a lot of parental trust,” Carla explained. “Mostly, these kids just need a good home and people to care for them. When that happens, they start to find their groove and everything starts to fall into place.” The Smiths celebrate every birthday with cake, presents, and decorations. Carla sneaks into the birthday child’s room at night to decorate and hang streamers from the door. For many of the kids, it’s the first birthday celebration that they’ve ever received. Other family traditions have evolved as well—from family getaways to pets, New Year’s Eve parties, and special FOSTER CARE CONTINUED ON PAGE 23
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Family BODY CO NFIDEN CE: THE BEGINNI NG OF ON E WOMA N’S JOUR NEY
WICH ITA
contents WichitaFamily.com
inside
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THINKI N ABOUT G ADOPT ING?
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Helpful insights proces s of ado into the pting a child.
Family Thanksgiving
INSIDE THANKSG : IVING DINNER FROM TO FINISHSTART
From start to finish, how to prepare a Thanksgiving meal.
THE ADOPTION OPTION Learning the ins and outs of the process.
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Body Confidence The first installment of one woman’s battle for contentment.
BRINGING HOME BABY Helpful tips to head-off trouble when bringing your new baby home for the first time.
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A closer look at...The city of newton Consider Newton...Life As It Should Be.
l COVER PICTURE COURTESY OF CAMERA ANGLES, LTD www.WichitaFamily.com
Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
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Family WICHITA
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Publisher:
For the Families, LLC 316.295.8465 Editor Eric Clark Contributing Writers: Elizabeth Barker Randa Addy Lori Supinie Clara Willliams Samm Erickson Advertising inquiries contact: Vice President of Sales & Marketing Elizabeth Barker 316.204.8575 ebarker@wichitafamily.com Sales Representative Directories and Special Features Sara Doppler 316.755.3799 sara@wichitafamily.com Wichita Family Magazine is published 12 times a year by For the Families, LLC. Wichita Family Magazine is available free, at schools, stores, restaurants, libraries, retailers and local attractions, as well as other places families frequent. For a complete list of where to find Wichita Family, or for subscription rates, visit www.wichitafamily.com.
editor’s letter Since the month of November is typically known for the Thanksgiving holiday, I wanted to take a few lines to say “thank you” to the businesses and organizations that place advertising in our publication. Since we started this venture some time ago, we had several goals in mind. Most importantly, Christy and I have always wanted this publication to become a solid resource for families in Wichita and the surrounding area. We’re certainly still a “work in progress,” but we’re proud of the work that we have done over the past couple of years. But we wouldn’t be where we are today without surrounding our family vision with quality businesses and organizations. Those who advertise in Wichita Family Magazine obviously believe in two things: family values and promoting their respective business/organization to the largest family readership in south-central Kansas. During these rough times, nothing is more central and important than the love we share between our loved ones. So help us say “thank you” to those who have helped bring you Wichita Family over the years, by buying products and/ or services from their businesses. l We continue to expand our publication this month to highlight even more important family issues. One area couple, shares with us their experience as foster parents and why all of us should consider becoming a foster parent. l In a touching article, we begin a journey with columnist Clara Williams during her battle to gain contentment in her piece “Body Confidence After 40.” l WF’s Elizabeth Barker shows us how to cut through the difficulties of preparing a Thanksgiving feast in “Family Thanksgiving From Start to Finish” We hope you enjoy this months WF, and here’s wishing each of you a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Mailing address: P.O. Box 817 Wichita, Kansas 67201 How to reach us: Phone: 316.295.8465 Email: publisher@wichitafamily.com Copyright 2009 by For the Families, LLC. All rights reserved. Wichita Family Magazine is not responsible for errors, omissions or contest fulfillment from third parties. Reproduction in part or in whole without written permission is strictly prohibited. Wichita Family is distributed free of charge. The magazine’s advertisers make this possible, so support them! We reserve the right to edit submitted material. All submissions will be considered for publication, but we reserve the right to refuse material. Materials will not be returned. Any editorial content or advertising published is the property of For the Families, LLC.
6 Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
Eric Clark Owner/Publisher For the Families, LLC publisher@wichitafamily.com
www.WichitaFamily.com
Music Mat t ers
E
ven professional musicians agree that musical practice is a requirement to improving skills and acquiring proficiency and there are no shortcuts to making this happen. Beginners are learning totally new integrated physical skills (breathing, note fingerings, mouth/tongue position) and success comes only with consistent repetition. Many parents wonder what constitutes good practice. Here are a few tips from some of the experts here at Senseney Music. Help them to find a place for practice that includes a chair and a music stand. Good posture (sitting up straight with their feet flat on the floor, holding the instrument properly) is essential to learning to play an instrument. It’s also a good idea for this to be a place where they can reasonably focus on the task at hand, so as much as kids like to multi-task, in front of the TV or computer is not the place for music practice.
Most music teachers will have practice requirements for students. The time a student is required to practice will usually be in terms of minutes per day or minutes per week. Most teachers agree that shorter, frequent practice is preferable. A few minutes a day will make more of a difference in the student mastering their new skills than one longer practice per week, even if it’s only 5 or 10 minutes. At the beginning, both the amount and complexity of the music will be low, so it will generally not require a lot of time to learn and repeat their assignments. Students need to learn to zero in on problem areas from the beginning and to not practice mistakes over and over. Encourage them to find the specific places in their music that gave them trouble and practice just those measures or notes. Play them very slowly and accurately at first, then gradually speed up to the appropriate tempo. If the music’s rhythm is the difficulty, suggest they put their instrument down and count and clap the rhythm out loud. Intermediate and advancing students can use a metronome to help them with tricky rhythms and gradually increasing the www.WichitaFamily.com
by Lori Supinie
President , Senseney Music, Inc.
Practice Makes Perfect
tempo during slow practice.
they know how to make.
Practice at a good forte, or loud, volume. For brass and woodwind players, a lot of problems can be attacked just by putting a bit more air into the instrument. Students should always practice with the best tone
Developing good practice habits will always serve your student well and help ensure success and enjoyment in their musical endeavors.
You Get More Than The Music...
e Full line of Yamaha keyboards, and Yamaha acoustic and digital pianos.
e Music Lessons for all ages in a clean, safe environment.
e Beginner and intermediate wind, percussion, and string instruments, all available with an affordable rent-to-own program.
e Beginner electric and acoustic guitar packages set up and ready to play.
e Kansas’ largest selection of printed music and accessories – Check out our new musical gift section! 2300 E. Lincoln, Wichita, KS 67211 316-262-1487 1-800-362-1060 www.senseneymusic.com
Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
7
Family Thanksgiving from Start to Finish
O
ur family Thanksgiving feast used to look something like this: Turkey, stuffing – two different kinds, gravy, sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes (for those who didn’t like the sweet ones), my aunt’s wonderful barbeque green beans, green bean casserole with the little fried onions on top (for those who didn’t care for my aunt’s recipe), deviled eggs, jellied cranberry sauce, rolls or biscuits, a relish tray, butter pickles (homage to my grandma who passed years ago), pumpkin pie, pumpkin cheesecake and apple pie. And, the worst part is, I know I’m forgetting a few things. Sound familiar? Feel full already, don’t you? I know. Me, too.
by Elizabeth Barker of us. Turkey, of course. Stuffing? Not so much. My kids don’t care for it and I’m allergic to wheat. Sweet Potatoes? Definitely. My son has his favorite version. Mashed potatoes? Sometimes. My daughter doesn’t like sweet potatoes so sometimes mashed makes it on the menu. Cranberry Sauce. Nope. You get the idea. I decided to make ONLY the side dishes my kids and I liked and not the ones there because they represent a traditional Thanksgiving meal. I have to admit, I struggled with this the first time. Until we sat down to dinner. And, AFTER dinner, I was sold.
Every few years, we eat Thanksgiving dinner just the three of us as a family. It’s quiet. It’s nice (not that I would trade in the big ole’ extended family dinner but it’s a nice change of pace). I still made all of that food. Do you know how few side dishes my kids really enjoyed? That they actually touched? Can you imagine making the feast above for three people? The left-overs? So, a few years back, I changed Thanksgiving dinner.
This is what our revised menu consists of: Turkey, Barry Mallow Bake (a sweet potato dish with fresh cranberries, brown sugar-oatmeal crumbles and marshmallows – this one is my son’s favorite), sometimes mashed potatoes, BBQ green beans (my personal holiday favorite and now my daughter’s – thank you Aunt Shirley), crescent rolls (because I’ve never met a child who doesn’t like these) and lastly, whatever pie the kids vote on. Yes, most often, pumpkin. It’s nice. It’s simple. Everything gets eaten and if there are left-overs, guess what – they get eaten within a few days, too!
I decided to whittle the menu down on the years where it was just the three
And if changing our entire concept wasn’t enough, this year, I REALLY shook
8 Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
it up. I wanted the kids in the kitchen with me. So, I had them make their dish of choice. Yes. You heard me – I made my kids cook. My son was pleasantly surprised at how easy his Barry Mallow Bake went together (until I burned the top – yes, I actually forgot it under the broiler and burned the marshmallows! Smooth move, I know). My daughter said, “that’s it?” when she was done with the BBQ beans (I know it sounds gross, but they are wonderful – try the recipe). I did the turkey. News flash: it is so much LESS expensive to buy an entire turkey than just the turkey breast. I spent $10.68 on a 3lb turkey breast and am convinced “idiot” was stamped on my forehead at some point. My daughter and I did the pie. Cherry this year as the store was completely out of pumpkin the day I was there. We did make the crust from a box and cheated and used cherry pie filling. It tasted good. (oh…author’s note & time saver…one year I made pumpkin pie from scratch – scrapped out the pumpkin and all – and one from a can. They tasted the same and the canned version looked better. Save the time, buy the canned). The result of my experiment? GREAT time spent with my kids. Laughter in the kitchen. Smiles on our faces. Bellies full of our favorite holiday foods. Minimal www.WichitaFamily.com
left-overs (that have already provided a requested dinner the second night). Will I do this again? Absolutely‌it’s our new Thanksgiving tradition on the years where it’s just us. On the other years, well, I’m looking forward to the big ol’ family spread, that uncomfortably full feeling, more food than I can imagine and the joy of being around people I love. Barry Mallow Yam Bake ž c. rolled oats ž c. flour ž c. brown sugar 1 tbsp. cinnamon ž c. butter (stick butter) 1 (40oz. canned yams, drained 2 c. fresh cranberries Miniature marshmallows Mix first five ingredients together until mixture resembles crumbs. Put canned sweet yams in 2 quart casserole dish and mix cranberries throughout. Then take half of crumbly mixture and mix throughout yams and cranberries. Then take remaining crumbly misture and sprinkle on to of yams and berries. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Then sprinkly over top with miniature marshmallows and broil in oven until light brown. Watch closely as they brown fast and you don’t want the marshmallows charred and hard. Enjoy Aunt Shirley’s BBQ Green Beans 4 slices bacon Ÿ c. chopped onion ½ c. catsup Ÿ c. brown sugar 1 tbsp worchestershire sauce 2 (16 oz) can green beans – drained Dice bacon and brown in skilled with onion. Drain. Add catsup, brown sugar and worchestershire sauce. Simmer for 2 minutes. Place beans in 1 ½ quart casserole dish. Pour bacon mix on top of beans. Do Not Stir. Bake 20 minutes in a 350 degree oven.
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Perfectly planned reunion + perfectly calm planner
1 result found: Wichita, Kansas. While the kids splash at the Rock River Rapids water park, the adults can stroll through the themed gardens at Botanica; or take everyone to hear the Diamond W Wranglersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Chuckwagon Supper serenades. Wichita has the unique mix of attractions to make everyone happy at your next family reunion. All at Midwestern prices. Go Wichita will help ďŹ nd the hotel and the source for customized T-shirts and banners. For a free family reunion planner checklist, contact Adrienn Massaglia, amassaglia@gowichita.com or 316.265.2800.
The city youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been searching for. gowichita.com
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800.288.9424
Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
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It’s All In The Application By Ronda Addy
C
ollege can be expensive. Getting a scholarship is one way to help offset the costs. Scholarships are awarded on a number of criteria ranging from financial need, or academic or athletic achievement, to nationality, ethnicity or public service. In order to get a scholarship, you need to make yourself stand out from everyone else applying for the same scholarship. There are a variety of scholarships available from a variety of sources. Scholarships awarded through colleges include athletic, academic and departmental. Other private organizations that offer scholarships include corporations, religious organizations, unions, school districts or high schools, Chambers of Commerce or the military. You begin the process for applying for a scholarship much like applying to a college. Start with a list of possible choices that match what you are looking for. Then send out applications supported by your achievements, essays, letters of recommendation and interviews. The more time you spend researching scholarships and the earlier you start, the more options you will have. If you have any questions about your eligibility for a particular scholarship, be sure to contact its sponsor. When applying for scholarships, be sure to organize your application material. Keep track of application deadlines and follow-up appointments. In addition to the scholarship application, you may be required to send a combination of the following material: transcripts, standardized test scores, parent’s financial information (including their tax returns), financial aid forms, proof of eligibility, one or more essays and one or more letters of recommendation. When sending in the requested information, don’t submit anything that isn’t requested or go over the length limit set for the essay. Make sure your application is legible (type or print it). It is a good idea to make copies of everything you send in, in case you need to resend any information. Double-check your application to make sure everything is filled out and filled out correctly. Don’t forget to sign and
10 Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
date your application. Have someone read your essay and check for spelling and grammar errors. There are numerous scholarship opportunities available for anyone willing to maneuver through the maze of choices and take the time to fill out the applications and supply the necessary information. Your chance for getting one is good.
www.WichitaFamily.com
Wichita Public Schools— Expecting and Delivering Excellence
School Award for its P.E. program from the Kansas Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance.
News and information from our partners at USD 259
Increased student achievement and preparation of young people for success in a diverse world are over-arching priorities for the Wichita Public Schools. Our district features: • Schools of choice • Rich diversity • Student connectedness • Quality teachers • Top academic honors in KS Schools receive
of Excellence • SafeStandard school environment Moreand Wichita schools were awarded • New renovated facilities the Standard of Excellence in reading, • Business partnerships math, science and/or writing by the Kansas State Department of Education • Education EDGE Foundation in 2009 than in 2008. Forty schools, covering all grade levels, were awarded Standard of Excellence based on the Kansas State Assessments. Overall, the Wichita Public Schools received 127 Standard of Excellence Awards. To see the list of all recipients, go to www. usd259.com/news/headlines/soe. The Standard of Excellence Awards were given to 30 elementary schools, one K-8 school, 5 middle schools and 4 high schools. Fifty-six of the awards were given in reading, 54 were given in math, 5 in science and 12 in writing.
For For more contact us a information school to receive Standard of Excellence, a certain percentage of by phone at 316-973-4515 students must score exemplary on or visit us online: the assessments and only a small www.usd259.com percentage of students be placed on academic warning. The percentage varies by grade level. Six schools receive Challenge Awards Six schools have received Certificates of Merit as part of the Challenge Awards from the Confidence in Public Education Task Force. The award recognizes schools for outstanding achievement and accomplishment in reading and/or mathematics based on 2009 state assessment results, despite facing significant challenges in school population. www.WichitaFamily.com
The schools honored are: Colvin Elementary – fourth-grade reading and math, fifth-grade math Harry Street Elementary – third-grade reading Woodland Health and Wellness Magnet – fifth-grade reading Horace Mann Dual Language Magnet – sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grade reading and math Metro-Meridian Alternative High School – eleventh-grade reading Northeast Magnet High School – eleventh-grade math.
Dodge’s P.E. program receives national recognition Dodge Literacy Magnet has been named a STARS school by the National Association for Sport and Physical Education for its outstanding physical education program. Dodge is the first school in Kansas to receive the STARS recognition. Dodge P.E. teacher Kim Morrissey and Cindy Johnson, who now teaches at Pleasant Valley Elementary, went through an extensive application process and provided documentation on different components of their P.E. program. Dodge will be honored as a STARS recipient during the National American Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance convention in March.
Two named National Achievement semifinalists Two students have been named semifinalists for the National Achievement Scholarship Program. The semifinalists are Christopher Clark and Adriana Turner, both seniors at East High School. The National Achievement Program, conducted by National Merit Scholarship Corporation, provides scholarships to promising AfricanAmerican youth across the country. Semifinalists must perform well on the PSAT and SAT, have a record of high academic performance throughout high school, be endorsed by their principal, must write a self- descriptive essay and demonstrate participation in school and community activities. Finalists will be announced in April.
Seltzer Elementary School beginning bond construction The Board of Education recently approved a contract to begin construction of additions at Seltzer Elementary, the first school project with the $370 million bond issue. The additions at Seltzer will help relieve overcrowding due to the rapid growth in the area around the school. The first addition on the west wing includes three kindergarten classrooms. The second addition on the north wing includes three second grade classrooms, two third grade classrooms, and boys and girls restrooms. The second addition will also be the school’s FEMA shelter. Construction is scheduled to be substantially complete in June 2010.
In 2008, Dodge received the Model Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
11
T
hinking about adoption? Good for you, and great for the child (or children) you are thinking about bringing into your home. Do you have the characteristics of a successful adoptive parent? Do you have the ability to care for, support and love a child who is not biologically your own? Are you stable and is your life stable? Are you mature? Dependable? Flexible? And, this one is important, do you have a sense of humor? That’s it in a nutshell. You don’t have to be married to adopt. You don’t have to be a homeowner but your home does have to be safe. You don’t have to be wealthy. But you do have to open your heart to someone who needs you. There are several ways to adopt a child and thousands of kids who need a permanent home.
12 Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
Adoption Agency Address Phone Web Site
You have the power to make a difference in a child’s life. We have infants and toddlers waiting for immediate placement. Call us or visit our Web site and we will help with the process of finding out if this life changing decision is right for you.
A New Day
The Adoption Option: Learning the ins and outs of the process l Adopt through the foster care system. Currently there are over 5,300 kids in Kansas foster care; almost 900 of them need a permanent home. These kids are children who will not be placed back in the home with their birth parents. l Private adoption. These are children who are put into the adoptive system by choice from their birth parents (infants and older children). l International adoption. Children in other countries who need a family. In these kind of adoptions, little or no information may be known about the child’s birth family or family history. Research, research, research is the best way to find out which option is best for
you and your family. Depending on who you are, who is in your family, and your familial situation a different solution might be right for you than your neighbor. Just as with anything, education is key. Talk to others who have adopted and gain their perspective. Cheryl Huelsman and her husband, Richard, have adopted four children. They felt if there were children in their own community who needed adoption, the right answer for them was to adopt locally. And, knowing these kids were here, led them to the foster care system. Cheryl and Richard have fostered many other kids providing them love, support and encouragement when they needed it on a temporary basis. Cheryl told me the amount of education and training www.WichitaFamily.com www.WichitaFamily.com
they received was unbelieveable and continues to be helpful. When adopting through the foster care system you have the opportunity to work with family caseworkers who help you identify children who might be a good fit for your family and provide support before and after the adoption takes place. Another family I know chose the international route. They had their first child later in life and knew they wanted another child but were unable to. Adoption was a natural choice for them. One day a friend mentioned a story she’d seen on international adoption. Soon after, they read a newspaper article and right after that, someone walked in with their baby from China. Even though they had started paperwork for a domestic adoption, when they learned more about international adoption that is when their excitement level rose. Adopting internationally was the only choice that felt right for them and it was.
Private adoption was the way another family opted to go. They’d been thinking about adopting but not pursing it actively. Then, suddenly the opportunity was in front of them and they jumped on it. The birth parents were in high school and knew they were too young to become parents. They interviewed couples for a few months, finally settling on one. The chosen couple had a very difficult time getting pregnant the first time and viewed this as a blessing when it happened. The biological parents allowed the adoptive parents in the delivery room and the adoptive parents took him home right away. To this day, they still have contact with the birth parents and are very thankful for that opportunity. That all took place 8 years ago and the entire family is doing great.
Education, workshops, support and guidance are available any route you choose. If you’re interested, find out what you can about each and you’ll know the right path for you, your family and your new child.
Adoption comes in three forms, Foster to Adopt, International and Private. Learn what you can and as much as you can.
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Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
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Body Confidence After 40 By: Clara Williams
W
hat happened? Where did this body come from? Whose is it? Aren’t I the same person who used to model bikinis when I was 19? Aren’t I the same person who had a six-pack AFTER two kids (and just 10 years ago) and completed two marathons? Wasn’t I rocking some short shorts not too very long ago? I don’t know if you ask yourself these questions, but I do. Daily. Two years ago, I stopped wearing shorts because, some how, cellulite inched its way down to the inside of my knee caps. You think I’m joking about that last part, don’t you? I’m not. And, while I’m a smaller size, I will no longer put a bathing suit on and hit the beach because I’m just not comfortable. And, no, I won’t go lie by the pool with my closest girlfriends, either. I’m not considerably overweight. According to my family doctor, I should lose about 10 lbs. My OB/GYN thinks I should lose 15-20. Yes, I like my family doctor better than my OB/GYN. One thing I know for certain is if I lose 20 lbs I will be WAY too skinny and I still might have cellulite on the inside of my knees. I don’t think my battle is really about a number on a scale. Obviously, I have some body confidence issues. When I sit down, I cover my stomach with a pillow, a blanket or a sweatshirt. I’ve looked around; a lot of women do the same thing. A friend asked me if I would take a beach vacation with her. I wouldn’t. She then asked me if I was going to avoid the beach and shorts for the rest of my life. My answer: Yes, until I have a perfect body. Therein lies part of the problem. I’m 40ish. I’m not going to ever have a perfect body again. I need to find some body confidence and be happy with what I have and live my life.
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Mentioning this to friends, many of them struggle with body confidence, too. Most of them don’t write an article airing all of their deepest, crazy thoughts for fear we all will think they’re nuts. Maybe I am. Here’s the deal, I’m going to find the confidence and you get to come along for the ride. Each month, I’m going to update you on my quest for comfort in shorts, comfort on the couch without hiding behind something and, believe it or not, comfort in a bathing suit. I’m going to get comfortable in my own skin and find out what I need to do to make that happen. It’s about time. It’s important to note that “comfort” is defined for this purpose as “without worry.” No, it’s not as simple as “hey, crazy lady, all you need to do is hit the gym.” I do work out. Like a fiend. Thirty minutes of weights and an hour of cardio 5 or 6 days a week. Seriously. I should look phenomenal. I don’t and I think this adds to my lack of confidence, “I work out this much and I still don’t like how I look?” Truth be told, I eat well. From 6 am to 6 pm. From 6 to 10 pm, some days it’s great and some days, well, it’s really, really terrible. And, what adds to
it for me is when I eat some thing bad, I immediately think, “I blew it. I can’t do it. I am a loser. Might as well go eat more bad things!” And I do. Where I might have just eaten one thing, I turn around and eat a bunch more. Instead, I need to be forgiving and kind to myself. I need to remind myself that it’s okay to enjoy some decadent treat…life is too short not to. But I also need to remind myself that because I ate one thing that might not have been the best choice, I did not blow it, I did not ruin every positive thing I did throughout the day or the week and I do not need to continue to eat every horrible thing in the house. Here’s the deal: I don’t know what it’s going to take to make me feel “confident.” I don’t know what it’s going to take to make me WANT to take a beach vacation again (and the beach is one of my favorite places on the planet). I don’t know what it’s going to take to get me to sport a pair of shorts that don’t come to my knees and not worry the entire time about how I look or about how YOU think I look (the truth is, you really don’t care how I look). I can’t even imagine what it’s going to www.WichitaFamily.com
take to get me to sit down and not cross my arms, grab a pillow and cover my gut (sitting up straight DOES seem to help the belly roll, by the way). But, I AM GOING TO FIND OUT. Could I work out harder? Yes. And I will. I’ll tell you all about it. Could I eat better and battle the struggles I have in the evening? Yes. Would losing the 10 or so pounds my doctor suggested help? Sure. Some. I don’t particularly think it’s a “weight” or “diet” issue for me. Honestly, I suspect my confidence might come from TRYING. Because, the truth be told, while I want to look good and be comfortable in my own skin, I don’t really try. Hmm. I might be on to something. Practice makes perfect, let’s see if trying to be confident and working towards confidence will make me confident (and let me loose the sweatshirt).
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Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
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a closer look at...
the city of Newton Consider Newton...Life as it Should Be
S
ome say it is the awardwinning public schools. Others point to the amazing golf course or the family-friendly public library. People are drawn to the superb medical facilities and the vitality of Main Street.
Newton offers a lifestyle many families are looking for. Newton is more than just another zip code; Newton is community. Or as the city’s tagline suggests, ”Newton. . . life as it should be.” Accessibly located on I-135, this town of 20,000 is just a 20 minute drive from Wichita. Stroll down Main Street and you feel it. Energy. Buzz. Connection. A publicprivate partnership is facilitating new businesses, encouraging historic building preservation, and creating social venues. Grab a morning cup of java or meet friends for lunch. Explore Newton’s delightful retail offerings or peruse local galleries. Newton’s core reflects the community’s individuality. Its heritage. There is a sense of commitment in the artfully restored and customer-friendly shops and amenities. Greg Elder of GR Elder Construction says many of his clients are choosing to build in Newton because of family. “Young couples appreciate Newton’s proximity to Wichita while enjoying the personal feel of a smaller city. Active retirees move here to be near grandchildren.” Education is a priority in Newton, and the public schools garner recognition for student achievement and teacher excellence. Chisholm Middle School was named the best secondary school in the nation in the prestigious Intel Schools of Distinction Award program. Walton
16 Wichita OCTOBER 2009 Wichita Family Family || NOVEMBER 2009
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Rural Life Elementary Charter School integrates technology into project-based learning with an agri-environmental focus and earned the Governor’s Award for Academic Excellence. NHS students routinely earn National Merit recognition, and the school enjoys a national presence in debate, entrepreneurship, robotics, and jazz performance. Recent communityled bond issues have guided building expansions throughout the district. Hutchinson Community College shares a facility with Newton’s Adult Education program, enabling workers to improve job readiness. Newton’s parks, playgrounds, and sports fields invite outdoor activities. Sand Creek Station Golf Course and residential development, rated by Golf Digest as one of the nation’s best new courses, is a gem. A recently enhanced and expanded pedestrian path along
both sides of peaceful Sand Creek connects Newton and North Newton and is a popular recreation destination for families.
Community Children’s Choir, Bethel Academy of Performing Arts, Historic Fox Theater, and Newton Community Theater engage a cross-section of
The Newton Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau www.WichitaFamily.com
Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
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residents in the arts. The contemporary Cobalt Gallery and the splendid collection of the historic Carriage Factory Gallery are noteworthy. Don’t overlook Kauffman Museum in North Newton. The Newton Mid-Kansas Symphony embodies quality; Maestro Daniel Hege of the Wichita Symphony conducted the Newton orchestra in the 1990s. The backbone of this socially proactive community has been built by non-profit organizations dedicated to quality care and compassionate service. Volunteering is woven into the fabric of the town. Mental health professionals, retirement and aging specialists, medical staff at the expansive Newton Medical Center help nurture Newton’s culture of caring, commitment, and service. Bethel College is an integral force in raising social awareness and broadening perspectives through thoughtprovoking programs, presentations, and performances. From its diverse settlers to its early ties with the railroad, Newton treasures its rich history. But clearly this city is focused on the future. Consultant studies are complete and city leaders are working with citizen groups to determine the most effective way to provide new and expanded recreation facilities. A conference center and hotel will open in 2010. North Newton is a pacesetter in savvy environmental guidelines. Leaders here understand the vital role of partnerships and cooperation. Newton is poised for positive growth. Dan Heinze of Heinze Insurance moved back to Newton from Wichita four years ago. He just completed serving as chair of the Chamber of Commerce board. “Newton’s plans for growth are always forged in the context of preserving family values. You just can’t help being passionate about this community.” Newton. . . Life as It Should Be. Worth considering.
18 Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
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ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
AFFORDABLE EDUCATION
The only Kansas private college to be ranked in Forbes.comÕs listing of ÒAmericaÕs Best CollegesÓ for 2009. One of only two Kansas colleges listed in Colleges of Distinction 2008-09. One of only two private liberal arts institutions in the state, to be recognized as part of the PresidentÕs Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll.
Each year, more than 98 percent of our students receive Ƥ ǡ ǡ athletic and performance scholarships.
STRATEGICALLY LOCATED Bethel’s 90-acre campus is strategically located just minutes from Wichita in North Newton. This premier location provides a safe space to think, to dream and to grow.
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300 East 27th Street | North Newton, KS 67117-8061 | www.bethelks.edu | 1-800-522-1887 ext. 230
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20 Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
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GET SOCIAL!
A great team of professionals serving you.
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your and your family’s medical needs, offering new specialties, services and technology close to home. These medical professionals are the heart and soul of Family Friendly at NMC. We are proud to have such a great team.
Anesthesiology Beugelsdijk, Henry, M.D.
Graber, Charles, M.D. McEachern, John, M.D.
Pathology Lin, Joe, M.D.
Cardiology Farhat, M. Saad, M.D. Amirani, Hossein, M.D.
GYN Urology Miller, Kevin, M.D.
Pediatrics Fruechting, Lynne, M.D. Homan, Gretchen, M.D. Houssayni, Sarah, M.D. Jantz, Jonathan, M.D. Patron, Ricardo, M.D. Roberts, Audrey, M.D.
Dentistry/Oral Surgery Davidson, Terry, D.D.S. McCullough, Pamela, D.D.S. Padgham, Ross, D.D.S. Emergency Medicine Cook, Theodore, M.D. Morford, Ronald, M.D. Endocrinology Herbel, Gayla, M.D. Family Medicine Bateman, Carrie D.O. Casimir, Jon, M.D. Duerksen, Susan, M.D. Ewy, Donna, M.D. Franklin, Robbyn, M.D. Glover II, Richard M., M.D. Goering, Randall, M.D. Hall, Mark, M.D. Hartvickson, Robyn, M.D. Holdeman, Troy, M.D. Horn, Russell, D.O. Johnson, Carol A., M.D. Lindholm, Gerald, M.D. Luinstra, Joseph, M.D. Mills, Terry Lee, Jr., M.D. Naccarato, Teran, M.D. Slechta, Stacy, D.O. Stevens, Ronald, M.D. Teck, Angel, D.O. Vora, M.I., D.O. Whitely, Randolph, M.D. Wiens, Timothy, M.D. Williams, Michael, M.D.
Internal Medicine Aiyenowo, Joseph, M.D. Detweiler, Doyle, M.D. Qamar, Yusuf, M.D. Roeser, Robert, D.O. Wheeler, Dwight, M.D. Neurology Alseoudi, Sarab, M.D. OB/GYN Bates, Michael, M.D. Bradley, Kent, M.D. Harkins, Brenda, M.D. Kumar, Surinder, M.D. Webb, Emily, M.D. Oncology Elamin, Elshami, M.D. Mattar, Bassam, M.D. Wong, Jorge, M.D. (Radiation Oncology) Ophthalmology Beck, William, M.D. Allen, Kevin, M.D.
Plastic Surgery Lovelle, Susan, M.D. Tamir, Jeremy, M.D. Podiatry Lickteig, Joseph, D.P.M. Truong, Thomas, D.P.M. Physical & Rehab Medicine Ng, Xavier, M.D. Psychiatry Coyner, Laurie, M.D. Dyck, George, M.D. Radiology Borland, Leonard V., D.O. Day, Pepper, M.D. McFarland, Robert, M.D. Nordling, Eric, D.O. Wells, Stanley, M.D.
Orthopedics Urology Craig, Charles, M.D. Cho, William, M.D. Kass, Vello, M.D. Koontz, Jennifer Scott, M.D. Tandoc, Valentin, M.D. Severud, Erik, M.D. Otolaryngology (ENT) Kimberley, Barry, M.D.
General Surgery Bogner, Paul, M.D. Cranston, Stephen, M.D. 316.283.2700 Newton, KS newtonmedicalcenter.com
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Offering a refuge for those struggling with life’s issues, such as depression, anxiety, substance
Newton Public Schools
abuse, family and
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Changing Lives, Saving Families Raising a family has many rewards and challenges, but you don’t have to go through the difficult times alone. Count on Prairie View to stand beside you. We offer a full range of services for families and individuals – psychological testing, a special purpose school, adventure course, a psychiatric residential treatment facility for adolescents, outpatient therapy and more.
Call us at 284-6400 or 800-362-0180, or find us online at www.prairieview.org.
22 Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
Achieve. Succeed. Believe. Guess what we did at school today! www.newton.k12.ks.us www.WichitaFamily.com
FOSTER CARE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4
dinners in honor of a good grade. Carla is famous among the kids for her delicious, home-made pancakes. Even so, that doesn’t mean that being a foster care parent is easy. There have been hiccups along the way, Carla said, and a few sad stories—unfortunately, a couple of their kids have ended up in jail. Likewise, several of the kids have been positively reunited with their biological families or have gone to college. One young man, who lived with the Smith’s for four years, is attending a university on the west coast to pursue a career in environmental science. He even landed a part-time job with a prestigious non-profit organization in that field. Although he was never formally adopted by the Smiths, they consider him family. “He called just the other day to ask for money,” Carla joked. “We can’t take the blame or the credit for how these kids turn out,” she continued. “Ultimately, it’s up to God. We can pray and pray for them though, and sometimes that’s all that keeps them going.” They can take some of the credit for impacting the lives of so many young people so profoundly. Carla and Gary were recently recognized as “Foster Care Parents of the Year” by their foster care organization at a banquet earlier this spring. The boys they currently foster were excited and proud, and one of them addressed those at the banquet to express his appreciation for the Smiths.
“The organization we work with makes it easier,” Carla said. “In many ways, they offer a whole team of support—people who are always checking in, making sure everything is okay, even reminding us to take a break. They’re wonderful.” Looking at the 48 faces in her living room, Carla is reminded of each special child. Some smiles are mischievous, others make her laugh. “I look at them, and I think about what we did the day the photo was taken or what milestone we were celebrating. We’ve made so many wonderful memories.” Gary and Carla are people who are making a difference in the lives of children, building a brighter future for all of us! Author’s note: Gary and Carla are foster parents with Saint Francis Community Services; however, there are many wonderful agencies to work with and thousands of local kids who need your help. Become a foster parent today. n
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Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
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Bringing Home Baby B
ringing a new baby home is something that all parents think about, particularly if their first. Many fantasize about completing the family unit and creating an ideal home with father, mother and little baby. Others are very nervous outside the confines of the hospital where there are experts around every corner. Whether you are coming directly from the hospital or are bringing home an adopted baby, the first few days can be essential in establishing a rhythm of life for you, your baby and your new family. For the trip home, you must have a car
seat to protect the baby. It is a law in every state, and the hospital will require that you have it before they will allow you to leave. It is important to select the right car seat well before the delivery. It is never safe, even on very short trips, to hold the baby in your arms. The first few days are a period of transition for you, your baby and your family. Mothers will still be feeling the effects of labor, delivery and any medications they were provided at the hospital. A mother's hormones will take a while to return to their non-pregnancy
by Samm Erickson
levels, and this can be hard on the mother. For the entire family, it will be time to get used to the baby's schedule. Staying flexible without scheduling too many appointments will allow you to learn the baby's schedule and meet their needs. There can be a lot of anxiety, and this is very normal. Mothers may feel nervous about their ability to care for the baby, particularly if they haven't had experience with small children. Many more parents report that they are anxious about giving up so much of their lives to another human being. This anxiety can also cause some guilt. These are normal feelings and can be shared with others. Many people will want to share in your joy and come right over. You are the parents and you should decide when you and the baby are ready for visitors. It is best to be clear with your guests about your available time frames and how you are feeling. They will respect your wishes. Many families choose to have someone serve as the gatekeeper for guests and inquisitive phone calls. It is best to ask anyone that is sick to stay away from the new family until they have fully recovered.
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Choosing a Hospice
T
here may be one hospice organization, or several that serve your community. It is important to find out about the services that each hospice offers. If there are several hospices that serve your area, you may want to request services from a particular hospice and can communicate that wish to your physician. •Are all hospices the same? •How do I decide if hospice is the appropriate care choice for me? •How do I choose among different hospice programs? •If there is only one hospice program in my community, how do I determine if it is a good one? These are common questions for individuals and loved ones facing life-limiting illnesses. Determining if a hospice is right for you may best be learned from calling different hospices and asking them about their services. You can also talk to people you trust who work in healthcare or aging services or who have received support from a hospice. •Physicians, nurse, and other healthcare professionals •Social workers, clergy, and other counselors •Friends or neighbors who have had direct experience with hospice care •Click here to find a hospice in your community or call National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization’s HelpLine 800.568.8898. Questions to Ask When Choosing a Hospice Program
•What roles do the attending physician and hospice play? •What does the hospice volunteer do? •How does hospice work to keep the patient comfortable? •How are services provided after hours? •How and where does hospice provide short-term inpatient care? •With which nursing homes or longterm care facilities does the hospice work?
Below is a list of questions you should •How long does it typically take the consider when looking for a hospice hospice to enroll someone once the program. request for services is made? •What services are provided? Get to know end-of-life care services •What kind of support is available to in your community by searching the the family/caregiver? NHPCO database.
26 Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
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Hope
Hope lives here!
There are unique times in every life that deserve the nest in service and mission. We believe that end of life care is one of them. We are the only hospice organization serving the area for over 26 years in the nonprot tradition.
Celebrating National Hospice Month!
313 S Market • Wichita, KS 67202
316-265-9441, or Toll Free 1-800-767-4965 www.WichitaFamily.com
Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
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NOVEMBER
wichita families
on the move... Calendar
of Events
4 Winter Wednesdays
Through December 30. Times: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. http://www.scz.org/visitor_ticketscalendar.php. Location: Sedgwick County Zoo, 5555 Zoo Blvd., Wichita, KS. Phone: 316-660-9453. Admission: $2. Bundle up and visit the Zoo every Wednesday in November and December!
5
Christmas on the Prairie
Through December 23. Times: Open 5 pm, Meal 6:30 pm, Show 7:30 pm. http:// www.prairierosechuckwagon.com. Location: Prairie Rose Chuckwagon Supper, Benton, KS - (15 miles NE of Wichita) Phone: 316778-2121. Admission: Adults $30, 6-12 $10, 3-5 $5, Under 3 free. Celebrate the season cowboy-style at the Prairie Rose Chuckwagon Supper. Arrive early to ride the horse-drawn wagon and the train. You can also watch a cowboy movie while enjoying free popcorn and hot chocolate. Or do your Christmas shopping in the mercantile. After the all-youcan-eat barbecue supper, you’ll enjoy the brand new Christmas show of the Prairie Rose Rangers.
6 “Box Art” at the Coutts Museum of Art
through December 18. Mon-Wed-Fri 1-5 p.m., Tue & Thu 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat Noon-4 p.m. http://www.couttsmuseum.org Location: 110 N. Main Street, El Dorado, KS Phone: 316-321-1212. Admission: Free Creative cardboard constructions by Jessie Montes. The work varies from portraiture to landscape, it sometimes includes architecture and it always functions as excellent abstraction. In other words, the work is totally consistent, but also has incredible range.
6 “Homegrown: Art of Kansas”
Through December 18. Times: Mon-WedFri 1-5 p.m., Tue & Thu 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat Noon-4 p.m. http://couttsmuseum.org Location: Coutts Memorial Museum of Art, 110 N. Main Street, El Dorado, KS Phone: 316-321-1212. Admission: Free Kansas’ largest statewide exhibit of Kansas Art.
28 Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
13 “A Crown Uptown Christmas” - Crown Uptown Professional Dinner Theatre
Through December 31. Times: Thu Matinee doors open 11 am, buffet 11:30 am-12:10 pm, show 12:30 pm; Thu-Sat evening doors open 5:45 pm, buffet 6 pm, show 7:30 pm; Sun evening doors open 4 pm, buffet 4:15-5:30 pm, show 5:45 pm. http:// www.crownuptown.com. Location: Crown Uptown Professional Dinner Theatre, 3207 E. Douglas, Wichita, KS. Phone: 316-681-1566 Admission: Select Thu matinee $26.95 + tax. Thu or Sun evening $30.95 + tax, Fri-Sat evening $33.95 + tax, Children 12 & under $14.95 + tax. The Crown Uptown celebrates the holiday season with an exciting, all-new musical comedy revue for all ages! Whether it’s for a group of 500 or just a table for 2, everyone will enjoy this fun-filled show with dazzling dance numbers, sensational singing, colorful costumes and witty comedy! It’s always the most popular show of the year and its never too early to start planning! The perfect holiday gift for friends, families, coworkers and more. We are taking Christmas Party reservations, so call now to get great seats! Select Thursday matinees on Dec. 2 & Dec. 10.
20 “Santa’s Toyland” Crown Uptown Children’s Theatre
Through December 19. Times: Fri-Sat Matinee, doors open 11 a.m., buffet 11:15 a.m., show 12:15 p.m. http://www.crownuptown.com Location: Crown Uptown Professional Dinner Theatre, 3207 E. Douglas, Wichita, KS Phone: 316-681-1566. Admission: $8.95 + tax
20 Complimentary HorseDrawn Carriage Rides at Bradley Fair
Through December 19. Times: 6-10-p.m. (Fri & Sat). http://www.bradleyfair.com Location: Bradley Fair Plaza, 21st & Rock Road, Wichita, KS. Phone: 316-630-9990 Admission: Free. Create a family tradition and celebrate the season with complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides on Fri and Sat evenings. For more information contact Bradley Fair Guest Services.
20 “Mystery at Snowy Point”
Through December 23. Times: Doors open 6:45 pm, dinner shortly after 7 pm, show 7:50 pm. http://www.prairiepines.com Location: Prairie Pines, 4055 N Tyler, Wichita, KS. Phone: 316-303-2037 Admission: $32 dinner and show tax included, group rates available A holiday comedy where you help solve the mystery. Showing Nov 20-21, Nov 27 & 28 and every day Dec 1-23 - EXCEPT MONDAY. The Old Barn Christmas shoppe is open 6-6:50 pm.
22
Night of Nativities
Times: 3-7 pm. Location: Yoder, Kansas Phone: 620-465-3613. Admission: Free This small town of Yoder invites families to come out and enjoy and evening of fun. This is the 10th year for Night of Nativities. This is a FREE event to the public. You can enjoy carriage rides, a live nativity and singing by various groups. For more information e-mail info@countrytraditions.biz..
26 2009 Arc Lights on St. Paul
Through December 27. Times: Display open Sun-Thu 5:30-9 p.m., Fri-Sat 5:30-10 p.m. and Christmas Eve 5:30-11:45 p.m. http:// www.arc-sedgwickcounty.org. Location: Display begins at Douglas Ave. north on St. Paul Street. Phone: 316-943-1191. Admission: Free, donations accepted Over 130 displays and more than 1 million lights in a three block span. Santa will be on site Thu Nov 26 & all Fri, Sat & Sun through Dec. 23, also Dec. 22 & 23 from 6-9 pm. Photos with Santa ($4 or donation with your own camera). All donations to assist with Arc programs for persons with developmental disabilities.
27 & 28 25th Annual Christmas Crafts Expo
Times: Fri-9 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat 10 a.m.-7 p.m. http://www.pridecraftshows.com. Location: Century II Expo Hall, 225 W. Douglas, Wichita. Phone: 316-729-9443 Admission: $5. Celebrating it’s 25th Anniversary.
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CHILDCARE DIRECTORY No matter what your child care needs are, you can find just what you need right here. You owe it to your child and your own peace of mind to find the best care possible.
Kids Day Inn---a quality Christian Mom’s Day Out program at Westlink Christian Church 2001 N. Maize Road, Wichita 722-1034 x121. Based on the “Bee” Attitudes Classes for 2& 3 year olds Monday, Thursday OR Friday. Asbury Preschool: A high quality school. Readiness Program for children 3-5. For information call 942-1491.
Kidslink Christian Preschool at Westlink Christian Church. 2001 N. Maize Road, Wichita 7221034. Excellence in Early Childhood Education from a Christian Perspective. Developmentally appropriate ½ day sessions for 3, 4, & 5 year olds. Character Building, Christian Values, Qualified Staff, Safe Loving Environment.
Noah’s Ark Child Care Center and Preschool, 6100 W. Maple St. Wichita 943-2088. Located inside Central Community Church. Caring for children 2 ½ to 7yrs. Biblical and Preschool Curriculum…. SRS approved CHECK US OUT ON THE WEB: http://www.centralcommunity.org/ noahsark/index.html
Offer Childcare services? Connect with families instantly by advertising in our childcare directory for as little as $30/ month. Contact sara at sara@wichitafamily.com.
Wichita Family Classified Section Midwest Classified Network READER NOTICE: This publication will never knowingly accept any advertisement that is illegal or considered fraudulent. If you have questions or doubts about any ads on these pages, we advise that before responding or sending money ahead of time, you check with the local Attorney General’s Consumer Fraud Line and/or Better Business Bureau. Also be advised that some phone numbers published in these ads may require an extra charge. This publication cannot be held responsible for any negative consequences that occur as a result of you doing business with these advertisers. WANT TO ADVERTISE TO THE MIDWEST? Place your classified ads in the Midwest Classified Network anytime online at www.midwestfreeclassifieds. com(MCN)
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30 Wichita Family | NOVEMBER 2009
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