WFM August 2010

FINDING THE RIGHT FIT: INVESTING IN QUALITY CHILD CARE WILL PAY OFF DOWN THE ROAD

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August 2010

SPOTLIGHT ON EDUCATION

ON THE MOVE WITH K12 How one family eased the angst of changing ‘schools’

STEPPING UP AND MAKING A DIFFERENCE Regal Car Sales and Credit and Dress for Success lend a hand to a family in need

INSIDE:

PULL OUT & SAVE BACK-TO-SCHOOL SPECIAL 2010

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Basics: -School ols Back-toz Wichita Public Scetyho round saf z Playg ol Nights z Scho

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FINDIN G THE RIG HT FIT:

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Wichita Family Magazine’s

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MUSIC MATTERS

2010

Back-to-School Basics: z Wichita Public Schools z Playground safety z School Nights

It’s back to school. Are your kids’ instruments ready for the upcoming year?

| A AUGUST

2010 3

FIND THE RIGHT FIT Investing in quality child care will pay off down the road

STEPPING UP AND MAKING A DIFFERENCE Regal Car Sales and Credit and Dress For Success lend a hand to a family in need

ON THE MOVE WITH K12 How one family eased the angst of changing ‘schools’

2010

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PAGE Basics: -School ols Back-toz Wichita Public Schoy fet round sa z Playg Nights z School

4 Wichita Family | AUGUST 2010

INSIDE:

PULL OUT & SAVE BACK-TO-SCHOOL SPECIAL

ALSO: WICHITA PUBLIC SCHOOLS.......16 FINANCIAL FOUNDATIONS.......20 CLASSIFIED ADS............................21

www.WichitaFamily.com

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1 result found: Wichita, Kansas While the kids splash at the Rock River Rapids water park, the older generation can stroll through the themed gardens at Botanica. Or head to Bradley Fair and enjoy Autumn & Art, a fine arts festival featuring artists from across the nation, Sept. 17-19, 2010. Wichita has the unique mix of attractions to make everyone happy at your next family reunion. All at Midwestern prices. Go Wichita will assist with hotel selection and find 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.

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Wichita Family | AUGUST 2010

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editor’s note

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Publisher: For the Families, LLC 316.295.8465 Publishers Eric and Christy Clark Editor Jessica Lindsey Advertising inquiries contact: Eric Clark 316.295.8465 or sales@wichitafamily.com or Jessica Lindsey 316.393.1011 or editor@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.

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.

I

s it just me, or did this summer fly by at a record-setting pace?

I blinked and June was gone. We did some fun things as a family, had some lazy days around the house and all of a sudden July was over. Now the first day of school is just around the corner so we're fitting in all the last-minute fun and preparing for a brand new year of learning!

Check out our special section on education this month as you get ready to send your family back to school. We also have some great information from Child Start on finding quality childcare for your family.

This issue also features a story about what a difference local groups can make in the life of someone who needs a little help. It's always neat to hear of businesses stepping up and donating to needy people in the community.

Look in upcoming issues for a ballot to vote for your favorite things in Wichita.

We'll be putting together a list of Best for Families and we'll need your opinions to find out the best places and services in the Wichita area. This is a great time to get the word out about the places you love in our area and let other families in on what you think makes these places family friendly.

You can always give us feedback on what you like or don't like and what you'd like to see in Wichita Family Magazine! Email me at jessica@wichitafamily.com or find us on Facebook.

-JL

6 Wichita Family | AUGUST 2010

www.WichitaFamily.com

BEST FOR FAMILY

2011

Best For Family 2011 Readers’ Choice Survey.

Results will be published in the February 2011 issue of Wichita Family Magazine. Submit this ballot by November 17, 2010.

or vote online at wichitafamily.com

Dining:

Women’s Casual______________________________ Women’s Formal______________________________

Top 3 Local Restaurants 1.__________________________________________ 2.__________________________________________ 3.__________________________________________ Appetizer____________________________________ Atmosphere__________________________________ Bang For Your Buck___________________________ BBQ_______________________________________ Breakfast____________________________________ Chinese_____________________________________ Coffee ______________________________________ Dessert______________________________________ Cafe________________________________________ Hamburger___________________________________ Healthy Food_________________________________ Ice Cream___________________________________ Italian_______________________________________ Mexican_____________________________________ New Restaurant_______________________________ Pizza________________________________________ Sandwiches__________________________________ Seafood_____________________________________ Service______________________________________ Sports Bar___________________________________ Steak_______________________________________

Schools:

Shopping: Antiques_____________________________________ Art Gallery___________________________________ Children’s Store______________________________ Day Spa_____________________________________ Furniture Store_______________________________ Gift Store____________________________________ Jeweler______________________________________ Men’s Casual_________________________________ Men’s Shoes_________________________________ Musical Instruments___________________________ Pets________________________________________ Place for a Massage____________________________ Places to Work________________________________

Public_______________________________________ Private______________________________________ Alternative___________________________________

Entertainment Art Exhibit___________________________________ Concert Venue________________________________ Golf Course__________________________________ Live Theater__________________________________ Museum_____________________________________ Non-Profit Event______________________________ Place to Take the Family________________________ Playground___________________________________ Sports experience______________________________ Theater______________________________________ Water Park___________________________________ Weekend Getaway_____________________________ What’s the Best Thing About Wichita?_____________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________

Remove this entire page from the magazine and send to: Wichita Family Magazine Attn: Best For Family 2011 P.O. Box 817 Wichita, Kansas 67201 RULES: Photocopies are not accepted. One vote per person. At least half the categories must be filled out, and the ballot must be validated with voter’s information. If the authenticity of the ballet cannot be verified, it will not be counted. Businesses and organization may post a sign asking customers to vote for them, but handing out ballots constitutes ballot-stuffing and, if verified, the establishment will be disqualified.

Ballot must be postmarked by November 17, 2010.

BEST FOR FAMILY

2011

Services: Cleaning Service______________________________ Accountant___________________________________ Adoption Agency______________________________ Assisted Living Facility_________________________ Attorney_____________________________________ Auto Dealer__________________________________ Auto Repair__________________________________ Carpet and Rug Cleaners________________________ Childcare____________________________________ Chiropractor__________________________________ Counseling Service____________________________ Electric Contractor_____________________________ Financial Planning Consultant/Service_____________ ____________________________________________ Florist_______________________________________ Funeral Homes and Director_____________________ ____________________________________________ General Contractor____________________________ Top 3 General Dentists 1.__________________________________________ 2.__________________________________________ 3.__________________________________________ Top 3 Hospitals 1.__________________________________________ 2.__________________________________________ 3.__________________________________________ Insurance Agent______________________________ Pet Grooming_________________________________ Top 3 Pediatricians 1.__________________________________________ 2.__________________________________________ 3.__________________________________________ Photographer_________________________________ Top 3 Physicians/Surgeons 1.__________________________________________ 2.__________________________________________ 3.__________________________________________ Plumbing____________________________________ Top 3 Optometrists 1.__________________________________________ 2.__________________________________________ 3.__________________________________________

Best For Family 2011 Readers’ Choice Survey.

Results will be published in the February 2011 issue of Wichita Family Magazine. Submit this ballot by November 17, 2010.

or vote online at wichitafamily.com

Top 3 Orthodontists 1.__________________________________________ 2.__________________________________________ 3.__________________________________________ Top 3 Real Estate Agents 1.__________________________________________ 2.__________________________________________ 3.__________________________________________ Retirement Community 1.__________________________________________ 2.__________________________________________ 3.__________________________________________ Television Service_____________________________ Wedding Service_______________________________

2011

Music Mat t ers

by Lori Supinie

President , Senseney Music, Inc.

It’s Back to School Time!

D

id your summer whiz by in a blur? No doubt it did and you’re faced with the never ending list of back to school supplies for your students: notebooks, crayons, folders, shoes, etc. etc. etc.! If your student is in the school band or orchestra program, they’ll need some items to get them started, as well.

Reed instruments will probably need new reeds – for most students (other than beginners) a package of 6-10 reeds should last them at least the semester, if not the whole year. How about their swabs? They can get pretty nasty after a year or two and are relatively inexpensive to replace.

Likewise, brass instrument players can use new lubricants (valve or slide oils) or polishing cloths. String players may need new rosin or new strings on their instrument as they just wear out over time with use. Percussionists can use new sticks or mallets. A stick bag is handy to carry and keep track of them.

How about the instruments? If you own your instrument now is the time to get it into the repair shop! Most repair shops are extremely busy in the summer, but you may be able to schedule a future appointment if the instrument is playable.

Good, regular maintenance is important in protecting your investment, like a car or a home. Ask your student if there were any problems at the end of the school year and have them check it out now if they haven’t been practicing regularly this summer . If you’re renting an instrument and have kept it over the summer, your maintenance coverage should take care of any problems you’re having.

For students in elementary and middle school, a class method book is usually required. Generally, but not always, the students will move up a level with each school year. Senseney Music keeps extensive lists of music teachers and www.WichitaFamily.com

the books they require for band or orchestra class for each grade in case you lose that note from the director!

If you have a beginner starting band or orchestra, feel free to bring them into Senseney Music for a “test drive” of the standard beginner instruments. Our staff of professional music educators will try them out and help them evaluate what they feel they will be most successful at.

What a great time for your child – they are in for a great experience which will impact them positively for the rest of their lives!!

You get more than The Music COMMITMENT To consistently provide the highest level of professional service.

EXPERIENCE Staff with creativity, sensitivity and experience to anticipate your needs and provide effective solutions.

SELECTION Large inventory to provide quick service.

Carefully selected to provide the best quality.

Band & Orchestral Instruments Print Music & Accessories Pianos • Guitars • Drum Sets Music Lessons • Instrument Repair

2300 E. Lincoln Wichita, KS 67211 1-800-362-1060 316-262-1487 www.senseneymusic.com

Wichita Family | AUGUST 2010

9

Spotlight on Education

ON THE MOVE WITH K 12

How one family eased the angst of changing ‘schools’

S

ome 43 million Americans representing 16 percent of the U.S. population pack up and relocate each year. We are a nation on the move, and although relocating can be very exciting, it can be taxing on a family, especially children.

offered at the grade below their entering grade level. Many families also discover that the number of elective, advanced, and special needs courses can be thick or thin, depending on their state and school district.

Kids can have a hard time saying goodbye to their home, neighborhood, friends, activities--and most importantly, their school. What’s more, families are left to face the hurdles that come with finding the right school to meet their children’s needs. The majority of public schools are not created equal.

The Straub family—Alicia and Will and their two daughters—of Ellinwood, Kansas, has moved enough to know the ins and outs of adjusting to different schools. But when the family recently relocated from Pennsylvania—where the girls were enrolled in Agora Cyber Charter School—to Kansas, the choice was easy: Lawrence Virtual School (LVS), a tuition-free online public school serving Kansas kids in grades K-10.* Both Agora and LVS are virtual public school programs powered by K12, the nation’s leading online education provider for grades K-12. With K12, learning happens online, wherever an Internet connection can be found.

For example, states have different rules and regulations (the proverbial red tape) regarding K-12 education. There are different course transfer policies, entrance and testing requirements, and—what many families discover to their dismay—schools from one state to the next have different grade-level course requirements. Students might be required to repeat courses that they already have taken, or they could miss a core course (say geometry) that was

10 Wichita Family | AUGUST 2010

An Easier Transition

K12 online public schools, or “virtual schools,” are currently serving students in over half the states, and D.C., and the

number of students is rapidly growing. In fact, with more than one million courses delivered to date, K¹² is the leader—by a wide margin—in providing learning programs to public schools in the U.S. These schools are free to parents and offer K¹²’s acclaimed K-12 program providing an individualized educational experience like no other.

Prior to Agora, Alicia specifically knew the type of program she wanted for her children: Her oldest daughter is a fast learner, so she wanted a curriculum that was challenging, coupled with a program that is accredited and available nationwide. She also knew from experience (serving as a substitute teacher in public schools) that some schools have limited course offerings and, she noted, that teachers often have to spend a lot of their own time on “crowd control” instead of teaching.

“I did look at local public schools, but I found, for example, that one school only offered two language classes, whereas my daughter had many foreign language choices, and, in fact, she is taking Latin this year,” Alicia said, www.WichitaFamily.com

adding, “Kids today need the tools to compete in the world; they need more education options.”

With the move to Kansas, the “portability” benefit paid off, Alicia said, and both girls had a seamless transition. “I first chose K12 because I really wanted a program that was accredited and nationwide—and when we moved, I didn’t want to start over,” said Alicia.

Her daughters will start first and third grade this fall. In fact, both daughters are ahead a grade level.

Social Connections Alicia knows there is a myth that kids who are not educated in traditional schools are isolated and miss out on opportunities to socialize and have fun with their peers. “It’s kind of the opposite because of the flexibility that the LVS curriculum allows,” Alicia explained.

“My kids are involved in all sorts of activities, from 4-H, church groups, tennis, track, and T-ball, and they have lots of friends and do what all kids do at their ages—stay active and have fun.”

Online schooling from America’s leader: K12 K12 makes learning come alive with online interactive content, textbooks, hands-on activities, and expert teachers. Our options include tuition-free online public schools, an accredited online private school, and 210+ courses available by direct purchase. K12 is the leader in online education for grades K-12: find out why at K12.com.

K12.com

get a total understanding of that period … I really believe this is the future of education,” Alicia concludes.

Award-winning Curriculum “What I like about the LVS curriculum is that my daughters are getting a stellar education and they are learning things, that, quite frankly, I didn’t learn at that age. And everything is tied together, so if my oldest is studying history for example, the art course will tie into that historic period, so she’ll

Lawrence Virtual School is currently accepting enrollments in grades K-10. Find out more by joining us at an event—online or in person. Simply visit K12.com/KS, or call 866.644.8320 to learn more. *Annual technology fee required for enrolling students.

K12 offers you a choice in the way your kids learn.

Get to know Kansas’s full-time, tuition-free* public school option To thrive, many children need a different kind of classroom. The Lawrence Virtual School and K¹² give Kansas kids in grades K-10 the chance to learn in the ways that are right for them.

LVS offers: • • • • •

The award-winning K12 curriculum Support from Kansas-licensed teachers An active, supportive school community A range of extracurricular activities A robust Advanced Learner Program

• The only statewide virtual public school program to offer the complete K 12 experience for students in grades K-10 • Ability for students to participate in their school district’s extracurricular athletics and activities

SCHOOL HAS STARTED, BUT WE’RE STILL ACCEPTING STUDENTS FOR THE 2010-2011 SCHOOL YEAR. Don’t wait! Visit K12.com/KS or call 866.644.8320 for more information.

*Annual technology fee required for enrolling students.

www.WichitaFamily.com

Wichita Family | AUGUST 2010

11

FINDING THE RIGHT FIT Investing in quality child care will pay off down the road written by Jessica Lindsey

A

Take child care, for example. Many times word of mouth or personal references can lead to a great child care provider but that luxury isn't always readily available. That's when an organization called Child Start can become your best friend.

“Just like when you're building a house, you need a solid foundation,” said Rupp. “You need the wiring before you put up the drywall. It's the foundation for the rest of what is going to happen in life. Reading, language, how you get along with others, at the age of 18 or 21 if you're a good person to live beside, if you're a person that someone would want to hire. It all starts with quality care, the parent and the person who watches them when the parent is not there.”

“This service is important because the early years are the foundation for the rest of your life in terms of success,” said Teresa Rupp, executive director of Child Start. “Ninety percent of brain development takes place before the age of 5.”

Rather than stressing about what you're getting yourself into when trying to find a quality child care provider, Child Start can be your best resource and can help you become an informed consumer.

Child Start, a beneficiary of the United Way, offers the services free to parents.

Child Start is a nonprofit organization that oversees programs that include Head Start, a preschool program for children, and the Child Care Resource and Referral Program.

On the flip side, Child Start offers countless training classes for child care providers. The educational classes give providers the required hours of training to become licensed and maintain their license.

s a parent you want the best for your kids. Sometimes, however, the task of knowing what is best or finding the best for them can be daunting.

While the programs serve many different area's of the community, all point back to Child Start's one clear purpose: preparing your child for lifelong success.

12 Wichita Family | AUGUST 2010

Aiding parents in their search For parents, making a call to the Child Care Resource and Referral program is a great first-step in finding quality child

care openings in the Wichita area.

The Resource and Referral Call Center serves the 316 and 620 area codes with information on area child care providers. The toll-free number is 1-800684-3962. By partnering with KDHE, state and national networks, Child Start is able to compile a detailed listing of child care providers. When providers complete necessary requirements to be licensed by the state, they are entered into the Call Center’s system.

“A call (to the Resource and Referral Center) can take about 10 minutes to 45 minutes, depending on how many questions the parent has,” said Clairissa Maddy, senior manager of the Call Center.

During the call, the call center specialist asks for information on the hours, days, location and any other requirements that the parent is looking for in a child care provider.

“We talk to them about what to look for, what questions to ask,” said Maddy.

“We’re helping parents to become informed consumers.”

The caller is given a list of at least eight providers that fit their requirements.

www.WichitaFamily.com

“It’s an individualized list,� said Maddy. “There may be many quality providers, but your list wouldn’t necessarily match my list. It’s based on needs, preferences, times, ages, locations, vacancies, etc.�

The caller also receives a sheet of information on each provider that tells fees, some information about the provider and contact information. “We suggest that you talk on the phone with (the provider), ask for references, take and read the handbook thoroughly,� said Maddy.

Equipped with a list of names, the parent can then begin narrowing down which child care provider would be the best fit for the family.

The Call Center averages 20 to 30 calls per day while certain times of the year, such as the summer months and January, tend to produce a higher volume of calls.

Serving vision impaired and typically developing children in an integrated setting, the Envision Child Development Center provides comprehensive early intervention services for children birth through age 5. As a licensed childcare facility and preschool, the Envision Child Development Center offers a high quality education while allowing children to play, make art and music, and enjoy being kids.

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gust 16 opening rolling now for Au

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Call today!

(316) 440-1630

610 N. Main, Downtown Wichita, Kansas

www.envisionchild.com

Child Start’s website, www.childstart. org, also has resources available to parents. Parents can search for providers through the online system and also can use a program to estimate whether their family could qualify Head Start or for child care subsidies from the state.

Training, counseling and more for providers In addition to the support offered to parents, Child Start provides valuable support to caregivers as well.

Care providers are required to take a specified number of education classes to become licensed. A variety of classes and training sessions are offered through Child Start, helping providers to be trained to give the best possible care to children. Some classes are free and

Searching for Child Care?

Let Child Start help with a free list of child care options available to you and resources to determine the best child care choice!

www.childstart.org 800-684-3962 www.WichitaFamily.com

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13

others are offered for a small fee.

“Not only are the Child Start training classes fulfilling the required hours needed for my licensing, but it is an invaluable tool in helping me learn to set up my business,” said Leslie Corenchuc who recently became a licensed provider and opened her home day care, Wee Care, in west Wichita.

Classes include curriculum training, developmental milestone education, behavior and guidance classes, the list goes on. Services are also available to help providers with specific issues such as how to handle biting, how to balance having a home business along with managing family responsibilities and more.

“There are so many resources that Child Start offers that will help me run my business to its fullest potential,” continued Corenchuc. “I’m excited that they’ll have my name and number available for people contacting them looking for child care. The staff at Child Start has given us access to call on them anytime and to have them come out and help us with behavior issues or ideas on what to try if we’re having specific issues with children. It just feels so good to know that there’s an organization right here that is so willing and ready to help me.”

Providers are asked to keep in touch with Child Start to keep the system updated with vital information such as vacancies, fees and other information so the Call Center can give out accurate information to parents looking for openings.

New laws and a new rating system A new law that went into effect July 1, 2010 has changed the requirements for people providing child care in their homes.

Up until July 1, providers had the option of choosing to be licensed or registered by the state. That option is no longer available, providers now are required to become licensed to care for children.

Registered day care providers were allowed fewer children that they could care for and were never required to have an on-site licensing surveyor to inspect the home where care was provided. As a licensed provider, a survey is done, a specific number of education hours are

14 Wichita Family | AUGUST 2010

required and a higher ratio of children is allowed.

No new registrations to become a registered day care provider are being accepted. If someone has already been practicing as a registered provider, when their registration is up for renewal, they will be expected to complete the application and requirements to become licensed.

“KDHE (Kansas Department of Health and Environment) has already sent out licensed packets with applications, regulation books and forms to all Registered Day Care home providers whose Certificates will be expiring in July, August and September,” said Nancy Jensen, Child Care Supervisor with the Office of Environmental Health for the City of Wichita. “These persons will be required to submit a licensed application if they want to continue conducting child care in their homes.”

Between July 1, 2010 and June 30, 2011, all registered home day cares will be phased out and only licensed child care providers will exist.

Child Start’s leaders are supportive of the change, stating that the licensing standards will provide parents with higher quality home day care providers.

Child Start also is helping parents to identify the highest quality providers by rolling out a new rating system called the Kansas Quality Rating Improvement System (KQRIS).

“The program has been active for five years, but we were building up our system before publicizing the ratings to the parents,” said Rupp.

As of July 1, the ratings are now available to parents. However, ratings are only available on providers who have volunteered for the program. The comprehensive program evaluates providers in several different areas of their business. It rates the provider in each area on a 5-star grading system.

As an added benefit, if the provider is a 3 in one area, they are given specific information on how to reach the next level and become a 4 rating.

Now, when parents call the Child Care Resource and Referral Call Center and are given a list of child care providers who meet their criteria they will also

receive the KQRIS ratings for any of the providers who have volunteered to be evaluated.

The program allows parents to have yet another opportunity to be an informed consumer and it offers providers a chance to show their strengths and improve on their weaknesses.

Currently, Child Start is operating KQRIS through grant money. Several states, including Colorado, have chosen to fund the program fully because of the benefit it is to parents and children using child care and because it encourages child care providers to strive for the highest quality of care.

“Every child care provider who has a license from the Health Department is in our system but not every one of them will have gone through the KQRIS process,” said Rupp. “We have been trying to build it up and now the goal is that parents will be in a place to be able to drive the demand for higher quality care and ask their providers to be a part of the rating system. It won’t take long for parents to realize that this is what they want to see in a day care provider.”

Childcare Directory 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.

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.

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SRS approved CHECK US OUT ON THE WEB: http://www.centralcommunity.org/ noahsark/index.html www.WichitaFamily.com

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Piano lessons also available

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Wichita Family | AUGUST 2010

15

News and information from our partners at Wichita Public Schools

Horace Mann teacher finalist for Presidential Award

Payne students rewarded for attendance

Rachel Aponso, math teacher at Horace Mann Dual Language Magnet, has been named one of three Kansas finalists for the 2010 Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science from the National Science Foundation.

Finalists were selected based on five areas including mastery of math/ science content and knowledge, use of instructional methods and strategies to support student learning, effective use of assessment strategies and educational leadership outside her classroom.

Aponso will receive $500 to use in her classroom. National winners for the Presidential Award will be announced in May of 2011.

P

reK through fith-grade students at Payne Elementary were rewarded for perfect attendance for the school year. The students who had perfect attendance were given bicycles on the last day of school.

The students who received bikes are Connor Richardson, PreK; Sheyla PazVelasquez, kindergarten; Kayla Kelley, third-grade; Yvette Fabela, Colton Minnick and Zoey Large, fourth grade; Dashiell Mitchell, Cintia Cruz-Tello,

Photo courtesy Globe Engineering

Ashley Crumrine and Leslie Lopez, fifth-grade. Large, Fabela and Kelley have had multiple years of perfect attendance.

Globe Engineering, one of the school’s partners, purchased the bikes for the students. Globe Engineering provides support and mentors for Payne throughout the year and has supplied bikes for students with perfect attendance for the past several years.

BEST

FOR FAMILY

16 Wichita Family | AUGUST 2010

2011

High school seniors receive millions in scholarships The 2010 senior class received many scholarships to help support their future educational endeavors. The amount of scholarships given to students throughout all high schools totals $26,098,121.

“We are incredibly proud that many of our students will have the opportunity to go to college with financial assistance,” said Denise Wren, Assistant Superintendent of High Schools. “Whether it’s a large or small scholarship, it really makes a difference for our students.”

Best For Family 2011 Readers’ Choice Survey.

Results will be published in the February 2011 issue ballot by by of Wichita Family Magazine. Submit your this ballot November 17, 2010.

or vote online at wichitafamily.com www.WichitaFamily.com

Students receive scholarships from Assistance League

ABOVE: First row: Tommy Le, Southeast; Second row from left: Suzanne Koch, Assistance League Scholarship Chair; Primchanok Vongjumnong, Southeast; Wenlencia Robinson,Southeast; Tanya Klingsporn, South; Back row: Pierre Alexander, Northwest; Jamaal Landrum, East; Marlon Ponce, South; Lorenzo Martinez, North and Adrian Ibarra-Solis, North.

Photo courtesy Assistance League

N

ine high school graduates received scholarships from the Assistance League of Wichita to help them continue their education.

Most of the students who were selected

are the first in their family to graduate high school and go on to college. The students will attend Butler Community College or Wichita Area Technical College in the fall.

East students in top 5 at Forensics Tournament Two students from East High School received fifth-place at the National Forensic League National Tournament in Kansas City. Jonathan Lewallen, 2010 graduate, finished 5th in International Extemporaneous Speaking. In the final round, he spoke before an audience of approximately 1,500 on the topic of what the international community can do to combat terrorism.

Salman Husain, incoming senior, finished 5th in the Lincoln-Douglas Debate category. The topic discussed was whether including non-felonsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; DNA in government databases was just or unjust.

Both students received their awards during the NFL Awards Ceremony on June 18.

Jardine received grant from Laura Bush Foundation Jardine Technology Magnet received a grant from the Laura Bush Foundation for Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Libraries. The school will receive $6,000 to expand and update its library book collection. Jardine will purchase books for their general www.WichitaFamily.com

collection, their bilingual/foreign language collection and for audio books.

Jardine was one of 188 schools across the country to receive the grant.

Wichita Family | AUGUST 2010

17

STEPPING UP AND MAKING A DIFFERENCE Regal Car Sales and Credit and Dress For Success lend a hand to a family in need

O

written by Jessica Lindsey

n the morning of July 2, Alice Edmonds poured an entire bottle of power steering fluid into her leaky 1991 Chrysler New Yorker. She ran some errands that morning and when Edmonds pulled into Regal Car Sales and Credit later that day, the power steering fluid was already on empty.

several times and was not comfortable taking the car on any major highway.

This was not a rare occurrence for her car. It ate oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid and a whole lot of gas.

Not to mention the busted window and lack of working headlights.

Edmonds, an unemployed single mother of two, happily accepted the white car with the big red bow and is excited for the possibilities it brings along with it.

“I wasn't able to drive it at night,” said Edmonds of her old car. “I had to race to be home before the sun went down. If something would have happened to my kids when we were at home at night, I would have had to call family or call an ambulance to get help.”

“I'm hoping that this will do a lot for my family,” said Edmonds. “I think it will open a lot of doors not having to worry about a car that's not reliable.”

None of this was new to Edmonds, but on July 2 when she pulled the car into Regal Car Sales and Credit, 3110 S. Broadway in Wichita, she happily left that reality behind her.

Making a difference

Regal donated a 2004 Ford Taurus to Edmonds who has struggled get things in order for her family. An unreliable, and even dangerous, car only added to the situation. Edmonds had been stranded

Sometimes a little help goes a long way and that’s what Regal Car Sales and Credit is counting on. The car dealership, owned by Robert Mulkey, has 13 locations across Oklahoma,

18 Wichita Family | AUGUST 2010

Missouri and Kansas.

Employees say Mulkey has encouraged each of them to be involved in their communities and to be aware of the needs around them. When an email came across her desk from a lady asking for help, Mary Kay Humerickhouse, marketing director for the dealership, decided to look into it.

Edmonds had emailed several dozen car dealerships in the Wichita area asking for help. She explained that she had a son with disabilities, a limited income and a car that just wasn’t helping things.

“I emailed her back telling her that Regal Car Sales and Credit is a buyhere, pay-here used car dealership and many people come to us because they can’t get a vehicle anywhere else,” said Humerickhouse. “We realize there are those people who have nowhere to turn and no way to purchase a vehicle, but they can’t do without one.”

Humerickhouse told Edmonds that she www.WichitaFamily.com www.WichitaFamily.com

m

would talk to Mulkey and see what they could do. After getting more details from Edmonds, Humerickhouse gave Edmonds an answer. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We felt that she could use our help and in doing so, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re hoping that maybe this can start a chain of kindness for her,â&#x20AC;? said Humerickhouse. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hopefully this will help her help herself as far as having a better life for herself and her kids. Hopefully this will help her to be able to do what she can to get a job and raise her kids to be responsible citizens as well.â&#x20AC;?

Edmonds was at the library using the internet when she saw the email saying that Mulkey and Regal Car Sales and Credit were going to donate a car to her family. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I wanted to jump up and down,â&#x20AC;? said Edmonds. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But I was at the library, so I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t.â&#x20AC;?

Regal Car Sales and Credit has donated cars, time, sponsorship and more in the past. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We realize that things happen to people in our communities,â&#x20AC;? said Mulkey. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Obviously we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t run around giving away cars all the time, but if we see something out there, if we see a need, we want to do something.â&#x20AC;?

the workforce by teaching interviewing skills, networking, presentation skills and more. There is a career center on site that is available for working on resumes, looking for jobs online as well.

After a client finds a job, they can come back and pick out an employment outfit. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kind of a reward for getting a job,â&#x20AC;? said Jones. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re also invited to join a professional womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s group that meets every month.â&#x20AC;?

Sessions on job retention, balancing life, financial issues and more are also offered to the women. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We help them through the whole process,â&#x20AC;? said Jones. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As long as they need us, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here.â&#x20AC;?

Dress for Success takes donations at their building at 1422 N. High on Mondays and all Millerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dry Cleaners accept donations on any day of the week. To learn more about the organization and to see what donations are needed, go to www.dressforsuccess.org/wichita.

Extending the help one step further As an added help, Dress for Success, 1422 N. High Street, was contacted to help Edmonds be prepared to find a job.

Dress for Success, a local affiliate of the national non-profit organization, starts its clients off with an interview outfit, makeup, even a haircut to get women ready for the job search. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The women are assisted by volunteer personal shoppers who help them pick out clothes that are appropriate and look best on them,â&#x20AC;? said Pat Jones of Dress for Success.

Dress for Success operates thanks to donations of clothing, hose, shoes and more. The High Street location has a room full of clothes for all sizes and the women referred to the group are taken on a personal shopping trip.

Dress for Success also offers a program that helps the women be successful in www.WichitaFamily.com

Success

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Wichita Family | AUGUST 2010

19

Financial Foundations

Teach your children well: Basic Financial Education Even before your children can count, they already know something about money; it’s what you have to give the ice cream man to get a cone, or put in the slot to ride the rocket ship at the grocery store. So, as soon as your children begin to handle money, start teaching them how to handle it wisely.

Making Allowances/Commissions Giving children allowances or commissions is a good way to begin teaching them how to save money and budget for the things they want. Some parents expect children to earn their allowance by doing household chores, while others attach no strings to the purse and expect children to pitch in simply because they live in the household. When it comes to allowances or commissions: x Set parameters. Discuss with your children what they may use the money for and how much should be saved. x Make the allowance/commission a routine, like payday. Give the same amount on the same day each week. x Consider “raises” for children who manage money well.

or a friend who is in need, this simple, but often underestimated, act may be the best quality you instill in your child.

Earning and Handling Income Encourage older children (teenagers) to earn income from parttime jobs. Particularly if this money supplements any allowance you give them, wages enable children to get a greater taste of financial independence.

Creating a balanced budget

With greater financial independence should come greater fiscal responsibility. Older children may have more expenses and their extra income can be used to cover at least some of those expenses.

To ensure that they’ll have enough to make ends meet, help them prepare a budget.

To develop a balance budget, children should first list all their income. Next, they should list their long-term goals and how much to save from each paycheck. This can be a specific dollar amount or percentage. Next list routine expenses, such as pizza Take it to the Bank with friends, money for movies, and gas for the car. Help them calculate the results. Be sure that every dollar is accounted for. If Piggy banks are a great way to start teaching children to save money, but opening a savings account in a “real” bank introduces they are in the “red” help them prioritize and make decisions based on needs and wants. them to the concepts of earning interest and the power of compounding.

While children might want to spend all their allowance now, enThe Future is Now courage them to divide it up, allowing them to spend some imme- Teenagers should be ready to focus on saving for larger goals diately, while insisting they save some toward things they really (computer, car, etc). And while bank accounts may still be the want but can’t afford right away. Writing down each goal and primary savings vehicles for them, you might also want to conthe amount that must be saved each week toward it will help chil- sider introducing your teenagers to the principles of investing. dren learn the difference between short-term and long-term goals. Helping older children learn about topics such as risk tolerance, As an incentive, you might want to offer to match whatever chil- time horizons, market volatility, and asset diversification may predren save toward their long-term goals. dispose them to take charge of their financial future.

Shopping Sense

The more attention you put in this area with your child the more Television commercials and peer pressure constantly tempt chil- opportunities you’ll have to teach them responsibility; even in areas outside of financial responsibility. dren to spend money. But children need guidance when it comes to making good buying decisions. Teach children how to compare items by price and quality. When you’re at the grocery store, for example, explain why you might buy generic cereal inMember SIPC stead of a name brand.

By explaining that you won’t buy them something every time you go to a store, you can lead children into thinking carefully about Waddell & Reed the purchases they do want to make.

811 E. 30th, Ste E Don’t be afraid to let children make mistakes. If a toy breaks Hutchinson, KS 67502 soon after it’s purchased, or doesn’t turn out to be as much fun 620-669-8291 as seen on TV, eventually children will learn to make good waddell.com choices even when you’re not there to give them advice.

Bill R. Kliewer H. Joe Kukula Financial Advisor Financial Advisor

Create a Giving Heart

Giving is no exception when it comes to developing character in a child. Whether giving to your church, non-profit organization

20 Wichita Family | AUGUST 2010

This information should not be construed as investment or financial advice related to your personal situation. Please consult with a financial advisor prior to making financial decisions.

www.WichitaFamily.com

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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.

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21

You have heard about it,

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