VFM April/May 2012

Fargo-Moorhead’s Biggest Family Events Calendar April/May 2012

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things best left to the pros

April/May 2012 Vol. 16, No. 2 Publisher The Village Family Service Center Gary Wolsky Tammy Noteboom Editor-in-Chief Kelly Lynch Graphic Design & Layout Jared Zimney Advertising Sales Manager Joy Ryan Advertising Sales Madalyn Pezalla Food & Fun Editor Shayna Hendricksen Copy Editor Shayna Hendricksen The Village Family Service Center Board of Directors Carrie Bjorge, Lyman Edds, Matthew Hallaway, Dr. Richard Hanson, Richard Henderson, Matt Leiseth, Dale Mowry, Michelle Powers, Dr. Joy Query, Dan Ulmer, Shane Waslaski

For advertising information, call (701) 451-5000 For editorial comments or questions, please call 701-451-4937 or email magazine@TheVillageFamily.org Printed by Forum Communications Printing, Fargo, N.D. ©2012 The Village Family Magazine.

YOUR FAMILY z from the editor Spring is my favorite season. I love the feeling of freshness in the air. The sun heats up the earth and all the sludge and grime of winter washes away with the snowmelt. Blades of grass push up through the soil and buds pop on tree branches. It feels so good to throw open the windows to let the fresh air in—and hear birds chirping and children laughing and playing outside.

Having four distinct seasons is one of the wonderful things about living in Fargo. You know it’s time to spring clean when the snow has left your yard and Cleanup Week is just around the corner. We are very fortunate, as a community, to have Cleanup Week. This year, it takes place from May 7-11 in Fargo, West Fargo, Moorhead, Dilworth, and Clay County. Not many cities haul away huge items and bulky debris on an annual basis—at no extra cost to their citizens. It’s a terrific perk of living here and, for those of us who are not hoarders, it’s a great way to keep our basements and garages free of clutter. There are some things city workers won’t haul away during Cleanup Week, so check out their website at www.cleanupweek.com to get all the details.

As you’re sorting and stacking things for the curb, maybe it’s time to consider joining a recycling program or, if you already recycle, maybe there are more items you can reuse or recycle. Unless you’re Ed Begley, Jr., I think everyone has room for improvement when it comes to recycling. If you’re not familiar with Ed Begley, Jr., he is an actor, a huge environmentalist, and hosts a show about his life called “Living with Ed.” His efforts go far beyond newspaper recycling or composting table scraps and yard waste. He cooks food in a backyard solar oven and reportedly has a bicycle hooked up to a battery and uses pedal power to make toast in the morning. He’s been labeled the “Greenest Man in Hollywood.”

I applaud his efforts, but recognize his lifestyle’s not for everyone—and certainly not for my family. I would categorize my own family as moderate recyclers. We participate in Fargo’s curbside recycling program and take magazines, phone books, and yard waste to city drop-off sites. We also make at least one trip a year to the hazardous waste disposal site to get rid of leftover paint and fluorescent bulbs.

If you’re looking to get started recycling this spring, check out our Do-It-Together article: Project Recycling. It introduces you to area families who have a system in place to separate recyclables and keep unnecessary garbage out of the landfills. Get tips on local recycling programs, creating a recycling space in your home, and getting the kids involved.

Welcome, spring! And, thanks for reading.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.

The Village Family Magazine is a registered trademark.

The Village Family Magazine does not necessarily endorse content of advertising.

The mission of The Village Family Magazine is to broaden the ability of The Village Family Service Center to improve the quality of people’s lives. In each issue, articles and features will educate and encourage families to develop and maintain positive, constructive relationships.

About the Cover Photo Fargo parents Jerry and Stacey with children Katlyn (10), Denver (8), Aubrey (4), and Sawyer (1) Photography by Ria Lee Photography (see ad on page 41) Like Us on Facebook

Mail correspondence to: The Village Family Service Center ATTN: Family Magazine 1201 25th St. S., Fargo, ND 58103

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April/May 2012

departments z change

6 House For Sale

Are you getting ready to sell your house? Local real estate experts share their tips on preparing a home for a quick sale in the FargoMoorhead market. z feature

14 Managing Multiple Medications

Prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements all have their healthful uses. Keeping track of several items at once can be a challenge. Discover the value in befriending a pharmacist and being your own advocate when it comes to your health. z money

20 Start Saving Now

Just a few dollars a month is all you need to get into the habit of saving. The key is to make a plan and develop a routine of setting money aside on a regular basis. z consumer

34 When It Pays to Hire a Pro

DIY projects can be fun and save you money. But sometimes, they can be disappointing and costly. Here are five situations where you should consider hiring a professional. z do-it-together

38 Project Recyling

Earth Day is April 22. Celebrate by setting up a recycling area in your home or adding to the list of things you regularly recycle.

We’ll show you how to get the whole family involved. z parenting

42 Boost Your Child's Vocabulary

Has your toddler just mastered his first words? Keep his vocabulary growing and encourage his verbal skills using these helpful strategies.

in every issue z gary’s opinion........... 9

z events calendar........ 24

z books & movies....... 10

z food & fun................ 45

z mom’s view.............. 12

z words & wisdom...... 46

z dad’s view................ 13 family

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April/May 2012 5

YOUR FAMILY z change

By Meredith

Holt

You can flip through the listings on HGTV and uncover a wealth of programs, like “Designed to Sell” or “Real Estate Intervention,” loaded with suggestions on what you should do to sell your home. But is it practical advice that translates to the FargoMoorhead market? Local real estate agents and designers give us their take on how to prepare your home for sale and sell it quickly.

Fargo-area Realtor Tracy Green suggested that a client paint her darkorange vaulted foyer a neutral taupe, but she resisted—she loved the burnt orange.

The house was listed for months without selling. Finally, the owner agreed to paint her foyer, and when she did, the house sold three weeks later.

In order to sell your home quickly and for a fair price, you have to be able to set aside your personal preferences and think about what a potential buyer would want. “You’re looking for the ‘wow factor,’ ” says David Wyum, an agent with West Fargo-based George Wyum Real Estate. “You’re looking to have people come in and say, ‘Hey, this is nice.’ ” Exterior The cliché, you never get a second chance to make a first impression, is so true when it comes to your home’s exterior and curb appeal when selling.

Walk across the street and look back at your house. What’s the first thing you notice? Does it look well-kept? Is it inviting? “Make sure the landscaping is trimmed and looks good, the lawn is mowed, snow removed, windows 6 April/May 2012

cleaned, and any little touch-ups or repairs done on the outside,” says Green, of Realty Executives North Plains.

If the exterior needs a fresh coat of paint, paint it. “You don’t have to necessarily change the color… unless it’s pink,” Wyum says. If you do decide to change the color, choose a neutral shade that matches the style of your home and blends in well with your neighborhood.

Check the roof for damage, paying attention to any shingles that may need repair. Note the condition of downspouts and gutters, too. If you know they leak, now is the time to get them fixed.

Repairs When people walk into a home, one of the things they consider is how much work has to be put into it. They think to themselves, “What do I have to do to this home?” As the seller, you should determine which repairs need to be done—and do them. Getting the full value out of a home sale takes time and effort. “You can’t buy a house and wear it out and expect to get money back out of it,” Wyum says. “We are willing to live in property that other people won’t buy,” he says. “It may be fine, it may be villagefamilymag.org

functional, but it’s deferred maintenance.

You gotta take care of the deferred maintenance on a house.”

Lighting Good lighting can make a space feel warm and welcoming. It can also make it seem bigger. Let in all the natural light possible by opening curtains or drapes.

Replace damaged or outdated light fixtures, or give them a modern look with new globes, Wyum suggests.

Paint Painting the walls can make a tremendous difference. “Walls get dinged up and dirty over time, or you may have a strong color that you love, like red, orange, or navy blue,” Green says. Avoid bold colors—neutral choices like white, off-white, gray, or beige have broader appeal. A fresh coat of paint gives the area a feeling of newness and cleanliness.

Carpet The condition of carpeting gets a lot of attention from buyers. Vacuum, spotclean, steam-clean, or hire professional cleaners. If the carpet is badly worn, outdated, or stained, replace it. Again,

family

stick to neutrals. Unattractive or boldly colored carpet can prevent a sale.

“I had a guy with a real nice little rambler in West Fargo for sale, and before he decided to sell it, he put in this really mauve carpet in the living room,” Wyum says. “That stopped the sale of the house for the longest time. We finally found a buyer who came in and looked at it and measured it and said, ‘Oh heck, that’ll work great in the master bedroom.’ ” The price took a hit, but the house sold, and the new owner moved the mauve carpet to the bedroom and put new carpet in the living room.

Interior designer Monica Hart, of Fargo-based Monica Hart Interior Designs Inc., recalls a similar experience. She had a client with a nice home featuring burgundy carpeting. The home sat on the market for more than nine months. “My client asked me to redo the carpet,” she says. “The house sold the next week!”

New carpeting doesn’t have to mean expensive carpeting. “I can’t tell you how many times over the years I’ve walked into a house showing and the buyers will come in, look, and say, ‘Oh, it’s got new carpet,’ and I’ll look at it and I can tell that it is the bottom rung, but it’s still nice and it’s still new,” Wyum says. “What it says to them in their mind is, ‘OK, that’s an expense that I don’t have to deal with for five years.ʼ” It’s one less thing to worry about.

“Potential buyers don’t want the trouble and time of having to replace the carpet themselves,” Hart says.

Clutter Even if it’s clean and organized, clutter and personal items can detract from a home. Experts use the term depersonalize to describe how sellers should prepare their homes. Don’t leave too much furniture or too many accessories in the home. “It makes the house feel cluttered and small—not appealing to a potential buyer!” says Hart.

“In most cases, if they have been in the house for any length of time—and I’m talking longer than a couple, three years—they need to take about half to three-quarters of their stuff out of it,” Wyum says. That includes thinning out clutter in cupboards, closets, and the garage. Potential buyers want to see how much storage space they’ll have in a new home, and clearing these areas out will give them a better idea. Buyers need to be able to picture their own things in the home. “Remember, the intent is for you to move and this is no longer your home, so it’s time to detach and pack up those boxes for storage,” Green says.

Kitchen Give lots of attention to the kitchen, one of the most high-traffic areas of a home. It’s used as a meeting place as well as for cooking, eating, and entertaining. The appeal of the kitchen may be the determining factor in a home sale.

Take extra care to deep clean all the appliances inside and out. It may be best to remove them altogether if they are truly outdated, like the original 1960 wall oven in one of Wyum’s listings.

“That’s gotta go,” he says.

“You don’t need to put in new countertops unless they’re in rough shape,” Wyum says. If they are stained or out of style, Hart suggests replacing them with an updated laminate.

Revarnishing cabinets, adding new handles or knobs, or installing new doors can also give the kitchen a fresh new look, adds Wyum.

Decor You may have spent years developing your own personal style in home decor, but it could turn off a potential buyer within seconds. Wyum recalls a home that spent longer on the market than it should have because the owner had decorated to her personal taste. “She’s got good taste, but not everybody has her taste,” he says of the client.

Wyum used his own home as an example. In his 1975 rambler, the same orange drapes that can be seen in Donna’s parents’ kitchen on “That ’70s Show” hang on the windows. However, “If I was going to sell the house, they would go and an inexpensive set of drapes from Penney’s would go in that are a more modern color,” he says.

Green, who is also a feng shui consultant, uses the practice to help owners arrange the “flow” of their home to make it feel more comfortable for buyers. “We can get very stuck in our ways, which can make the sale process get stuck. I work with owners to get that energy moving again so that they can move to the next stage in their lives,” she says. A few pieces of thoughtfully arranged furniture can help potential buyers picture themselves living in the home. “Many buyers need to see something in the space to determine room sizes,” Green says. “No decorating is just as detrimental as too much.”

Pricing Homeowners often make the mistake of overpricing or underpricing their homes. Pricing “truly is a delicate balance,” Green says. A seller should price a home to allow for the potential of negotiation and to help a buyer with closing costs, but not so high that the home will be out-priced for the market and take too long to sell. “This will cause a lower sale price because buyers then think that you’ll take any offer because your house has been on the market for a long time. The mindset is that you may be desperate to sell,” she says. “Underprice your home for the

Let us help you find your Home, Sweet Home

Pets A 2011-12 pet owner’s survey found that 39 percent of U.S. households own at least one dog and 33 percent own at least one cat. If you have pets, check for odor and cleanliness concerns, or ask a visitor. “You may have an issue with pet odor that is not apparent to you but definitely would be to the non-pet owner,” Green says. She has received feedback that having the carpets cleaned with pet-odor eliminator makes a big difference and helps speed up the sale of the house.

Staging “Staging” a home, or arranging, rearranging, or removing furniture and decor, can help sell a home, especially a new or higher-end home, says Wyum.

But don’t overdo it: A nice couch, a couple of nice chairs, and maybe a small entertainment center are enough, he says. One bedroom (typically the master bedroom) should be furnished with the basics—a bed and a dresser set.

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David L. Wyum, GRI, ABR, CRS Broker Associate George Wyum Real Estate 96 Fifth St. E West Fargo, ND 58078-1918 (701) 282-3473 Work (701) 361-9121 Mobile (701) 282-6895 Fax dwyum@ideaone.net http://wyum-realestate.com

April/May 2012 7

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market and buyers will think there is something wrong.”

Work with your agent to set a price based on comparable homes that have sold and current competition. “It may even be good to go see a few,” Green says.

There’s a lot of ground to cover when you’re preparing your home for sale. The lengthy to-do list can be overwhelming, especially since you’re likely in the

middle of your own move. But put in the time and effort needed to get your house ready for the market, and it has a better chance of selling quickly. Try to separate your personal attachment, roll up your sleeves, and get to work. Remember to keep an open mind and listen to your real estate agent—they know what buyers want.

Meredith Holt is a copy editor and freelance writer. She lives in Fargo.

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A picture-perfect career in advertising was waiting. A hip-hop dance class was waiting. Nicki Kinzer’s life was waiting. But at 377 pounds, Nicki struggled with back pain and more.

She looked through a new lens and focused on the weight loss surgery program at Sanford Health. Now she’s captured the clearest image of all: health and happiness.

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ADORABLE PET PICTURES Email a picture of your pet, pet’s name, breed, age, and your hometown to: design@TheVillageFamily.org

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YOUR FAMILY z gary’s opinion

Quiet, Yet Diligent Work of Many Improves Community

By Gary Wolsky, President/CEO The Village Family Service Center I’m happy to share with our readers an important addition to The Village’s family of services. As of Dec. 1, 2011, First Step Recovery has become Wolsky a part of our service delivery system. First Step Recovery is a licensed addiction treatment facility that provides comprehensive treatment of alcoholism and other drug dependency.

The guiding principle of First Step Recovery—that alcoholism and other drug dependencies are treatable illnesses that affect people physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually—closely aligns with the philosophies of The Village.

Since the late 1960s, when The Village began transitioning from its roots as an orphanage, we’ve taken a very holistic view of the challenges people experience in life. This has led, over many decades, to a number of mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships that are designed to enhance our ability to serve people and to make these services easier to access and more efficient.

We all know of the prevalence of addiction issues in our society, and the addition of First Step Recovery to our menu of services will allow The Village to better serve the folks who rely on us during tough times. We’re very proud of First Step Recovery joining our family.

They are an exceptionally talented and dedicated group of professionals.

Mergers with other local organizations have played an important role in the history of The Village—and these mergers have been led by an outstanding group of people who have served on The Village boards of directors over the years. Nearly a half century ago, because of the vision of a board of directors and their willingness to take some measure of risk, The Village merged with what was then called the Fargo Moorhead Family Service Association (the first professional counseling agency in the community).

At that time, our board of directors consisted of giants in the community—

people such as Virginia Scheel, Frank Gokey, Oral Holm, and others too numerous to mention. That merger, which has proven to be the bedrock of our identity, was followed over many years by mergers with other local organizations, such as the Center for Parents and Children, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Nokomis Child Care Centers.

All of these organizational changes— which were essentially commitments to a healthy community—came with risk, but were ultimately driven by boards of directors dedicated and committed to excellence. Our current boards of directors are no exception.

These past number of years have presented serious and unparalleled challenges to The Village, as well as other nonprofits. The numerous floods in the Red River Valley and across the state, followed by the most recent, serious recession, have proven very difficult to navigate. Yet we continue to provide unparalleled confidence by virtue of a dedicated staff of 250 professionals.

Over 75,000 people a year benefit from our services, the foundation of which was cast, in many instances, decades ago. This simply doesn’t happen without exceptional board leadership.

I want to take this moment to publicly thank our leaders today, who are no less “giants” than the ones I mentioned above.

Although they’re listed elsewhere in this magazine, I want to list them here and urge you to take a moment to thank them as well. Our community and region are better because of their quiet, yet diligent work. They are:

The Children’s Village Family Service Foundation Earl Strinden, Chairperson John MacFarlane, Vice Chairperson Dan Burling Lyman Edds Matthew Hallaway Greg Hammes Richard Hanson Matt Leiseth Roger Reierson As a community we owe them, and their many predecessors, a huge debt of gratitude.

The opinions expressed in this column are strictly those of The Village Family Service Center CEO. They do not necessarily reflect the views of the organization, staff, or boards of directors.

The Village Family Service Center Matt Leiseth, Chairperson Lyman Edds, 1st Vice Chairperson Michelle Powers, 2nd Vice Chairperson Carrie Bjorge Matthew Hallaway Dr. Richard Hanson Richard Henderson Dale Mowry Dr. Joy Query Dan Ulmer Shane Waslaski

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YOUR FAMILY z m vies

“Chimpanzee”

TM & © 2012 Marvel & Subs. www.marvel.com

© Disney. All Rights Reserved.

G In Theatres April 20 Disneynature takes its audience into the Tai Forest of Africa’s Ivory Coast to view a truelife adventure called “Chimpanzee.” The story follows a three-year-old chimp named Oscar in this extraordinary tale of family togetherness and individual triumph. Oscar’s curiosity and his love of discovery showcase the intelligence and ingenuity of chimpanzees, some of the most incredible animals on Earth. The young chimp’s antics clearly demonstrate that he and his fellow chimps would rather frolic around than take an afternoon nap with their parents. The audience will see how the family of chimpanzees navigates the complexities and dangers of life in the forest. Suddenly, Oscar finds himself completely alone. Watch as a surprise ally comes into Oscar’s world, rescuing him and changing his life forever.

-Davis Steen

“The Avengers” PG-13 In Theatres May 4 When the world is threatened by the evil and mischievous Loki, it is up to Iron Man (Robert Downey, Jr.), Captain America (Chris Evans), Thor (Chris Hemsworth), The Incredible Hulk (Mark Ruffalo), Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson), Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson), and Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) to assemble as The Avengers and save the world from destruction.

Loki, known for his tremendous ability to lie and persuade others, tries to pit these Marvel Comic Book super heroes against one another to distract them from his plot to take over Earth. “The Avengers” is sure to entertain with spectacular special effects and plenty of action.

-Jared Zimney

© 2012 Sony Pictures Digital Inc. All rights reserved.

“Men in Black III” PG-13 In Theatres May 25 Agents J (Will Smith) and K (Tommy Lee Jones) are back—in another movie—and in time. Agent J has seen quite a few unexplainable things in his 15 years with the Men in Black, but nothing, not even aliens, seems as crazy to him as his partner for those 15 years, Agent K. In “Men in Black III,” when K’s life and the future of the planet are in jeopardy, J is forced to travel back in time to set things right. J uncovers many secrets K never shared with him—secrets he discovers when he partners up with the young Agent K, played by Josh Brolin.

The two agents work together to save the universe and the human race.

-Davis Steen

STAFF PICKS:

Jared

“Phineas and Ferb the Movie: Across the 2nd Dimension” G Available on DVD “There's 104 days of summer vacation,” and a portal to the 2nd dimension comes around just to end it.

In their first feature-length film, Phineas and Ferb are transported to an alternate universe where an evil, 2nd dimension Dr. Doofenschmirtz has (finally) taken over the tri-state area!

With the help of Agent P and the 2nd dimension Phineas, Ferb, and friends, the boys try to put a stop to the evil Doofenschmirtz's plans before he can take over the entire world.

Filled with all of the excitement, adventures, and songs you would expect, this movie is a winner for all ages.

NOTE: “The Pirates! Band of Misfits” (featured in The Village Family Magazineʼs last issue) has moved from a March 30 to an April 27 release.

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YOUR FAMILY z

Book Reviews Courtesy Barnes and Noble, Fargo

Baby & Preschool “Easter Surprise”

by Roger Priddy This interactive novelty board book is brimming with cute animals and fun, rhyming text. There are six sparkly Easter egg pages to open, each one revealing a special Easter surprise. Rhythmic, rhyming questions give a clue to what’s underneath. “Easter Surprise” features five cute, springtime animals such as a chick, a lamb, and a baby deer. The sixth surprise is a shiny mirror which will delight and surprise! This adorable board book uses an innovative, split-page opening mechanism.

Ages 4 to 8 “Bad Kitty for President”

by Nick Bruel The votes are in—it's a Bad Kitty landslide! It's time to elect a new president of the Neighborhood Cat Coalition. Who will win the election? Will it be the candidate chosen by the kitties on the right side of the street or the candidate chosen by the kitties on the left side of the street? When election time rolls around, one candidate (guess who?) will discover that she never bothered to register to vote and the entire election will be decided by a surprise, last minute absentee ballot sent by Old Kitty.

Teenagers “There Is No Dog”

by Meg Rosoff What if God were a teenaged boy? In the beginning, Bob created the heavens and the Earth and the beasts of the field and the creatures of the sea, and twenty-five million other species (including lots of cute girls). But mostly he prefers eating junk food and leaving his dirty clothes in a heap at the side of his bed. Every time he falls in love, Earth erupts in natural disasters, and it's usually Bob's beleaguered assistant, Mr. B., who is left cleaning up the mess. So humankind is going to be very sorry indeed that Bob ever ran into a beautiful, completely irresistible girl called Lucy.

Ages 9 to 12 “Darwen Arkwright and the Peregrine Pact”

by A.J. Hartley Eleven-year-old Darwen Arkwright has spent his whole life in a tiny town in England. So when he is forced to move to Atlanta, Georgia, to live with his aunt, he knows things will be different—but what he finds there is beyond even his wildest imaginings!

Darwen discovers an enchanting world through the old mirror hanging in his closet—a world that holds as many dangers as it does wonders.

He finds scrobblers on motorbikes with nets big enough to fit a human boy; gnashers with no eyes, but monstrous mouths full of teeth; and flittercrakes with bat-like bodies and the faces of men. Along with his new friends, Rich and Alexandra, Darwen becomes entangled in an adventure and a mystery that involves the safety of his entire school. They soon realize that the creatures are after something in our world—something that only human children possess.

Adults “Child Wonder”

by Roy Jacobsen Little Finn lives with his mother in an apartment in a working-class suburb of Oslo. Life is a struggle to make ends meet, but he does not mind. When his mother decides to take a lodger to help pay the bills, he watches with interest as she freshens up their small apartment with new wallpaper and a sofa paid for in installments.

He befriends their new male lodger, whose television is more tempting to him than his mother would like.

When a half sister whom he never knew joins the household, Finn takes her under his wing over an everlasting summer on Håøya Island. But he can’t understand why everyone thinks his new sister is so different from every other child. Nor can he fathom his mother’s painful secret, one that pushes them ever farther apart. As summer comes to a close, Finn must attempt to grasp the incomprehensible adult world and his place within it.

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YOUR FAMILY z mom’s view

By Kathy Sena The baby monitor started squawking as I finished the dinner dishes. Walking into his room, I found my ten-month-old son, Matthew, sobbing and clutching the crib railing.

We settled into the rocking chair, the glow from the night light shining across his pudgy cheeks, highlighting a tear and a quivering chin. As we rocked and I hummed a lullaby, I could feel Matt’s weight sink into my chest. With each rocking movement, he let go a bit more, until, with his trademark little shudder-sigh, he fell asleep.

It was a scene I dreamed about when I was expecting. That is, when I wasn’t devouring pregnancy books. I didn’t have to be hit over the head with a breast pump to get the message: It’s All About Bonding.

Talk to my baby in the womb? Check. Play music that he will recognize later? Check. (I even bought a tape, “Yosemite Sounds,” to commemorate the vacation my husband and I took while I was pregnant.)

But these were small potatoes compared with the two mommy-baby-bonding biggies: natural childbirth and blissful breastfeeding.

I never missed a Lamaze or breastfeeding class. I even stopped by a La Leche League meeting, looking for tips. By my eighth month, I was more than ready to bond with my little guy, who was probably ready to bolt from the womb screaming, “Mom, enough with the Yosemite tape!”

Somehow my well-planned birthing experience turned into 32 hours of labor, an hour of pushing, and finally—with the mother-to-be cursing and “hee” breathing all the way to the operating room—an emergency C-section three days before Christmas.

So much for placing the naked baby on my chest while my husband and I wipe away tears of joy.

Actually, there were tears of joy. And I did get to touch my son while the doctors sewed me up. But I could almost feel the experts’ disapproval.

In the Bonding Olympics, breastfeeding wasn’t our strongest event, either. After consulting with two obstetricians, three lactation specialists, and one nurse, I still found myself in a frustrating, exhausting, every-two-hour cycle of pumping milk while my husband fed Matthew with an eye dropper. I think we all were relieved when, after several weeks of round-the-clock angst, we threw in the towel and switched to formula, at our pediatrician’s suggestion.

But even quitting was no picnic. I had to bind my chest to decrease milk production, but my breasts still ached miserably.

Then I read somewhere that applying cabbage leaves could reduce swelling. So there I stood in the kitchen, in tears, holding cabbage leaves to my breasts while my husband wrapped my chest with an Ace bandage.

Looking back, I can laugh. But standing there in the kitchen, full of milk, pain, and guilt, I felt like a failure. By the experts’ accounts, I had blown it big time.

12 April/May 2012

Illustration by Trygve Olson

A Little Bonding, Way Too Many Cabbage Leaves—and a Whole Lot of Gratitude

Never mind that I held my newborn son on Christmas Eve as we listened to carolers singing “Silent Night” outside our hospital room.

Or that, after bringing him home on Christmas Day, we’d spend evenings in the living room, lights off, listening to Bing Crosby while Matthew clutched my finger and stared, wideeyed, at the twinkling tree lights.

And never mind that he gazed into my face as we snuggled in his grandma’s afghan for 3 a.m. feedings, with Matthew eating happily until every part of his tiny body was asleep except for his bottom lip, which kept making little sucking movements.

Never mind that ten-month-old boy who nestled peacefully against my chest that night as we rocked, heartbeat-toheartbeat. Or the happy squeals that greeted me the next morning. Or that little tango we do that makes him giggle in anticipation of the “dip” at the end. Or the hundred other simple ways we weave ourselves into each other’s hearts.

When it comes to “proper” bonding with my son, the experts would probably throw the book at me.

But finally, I can honestly tell myself, it’s OK. After all, my sweet Matthew, you and I didn’t do it by the book.

villagefamilymag.org

Kathy Sena is an award-winning freelance journalist and columnist. Visit her parenting blog at www.parenttalktoday.com. family

YOUR FAMILY z dad’s view

By Rick Epstein My wife’s first Mother’s Day fell flatter than the pancakes that no one made for her that morning. It was unjust. If ever a mom deserved to have a fuss made over her on Mother’s Day, it was Betsy. Labor had been difficult and surgical, and in the following months, her devotion was complete and her tenderness was unparalleled. (I’m talking about tenderness in a baby-caressing way, not in a medical ouch-that-hurts way, although she had that kind, too.)

Marie was five months old that May, and I remember thinking, “How is this infant going to do right by her mom on Mother’s Day?” And sure enough, on the second Sunday of that month, Baby Marie completely dropped the ball.

The next morning, I consoled my wife, “I guess it wasn’t much of a Mother’s Day for you. But you really can’t blame Marie. She is, after all, just a baby.”

Betsy replied, “No, I can’t blame HER.” She meant it to sting, and it did.

Lesson learned? In parenthood, there are no innocent bystanders. You are allies and you take care of each other.

As Mother’s Day approaches, new fathers tend to remember the holiday as being strictly between their mom and themselves.

Because Dad seemed incidental to the occasion, the new father says of his wife, “She’s not MY mother; I’m home free.”

Boys, that’s not going to work—unless you want to be sent home to reside with YOUR mother. You have to pick up this new Mother’s Day burden and carry it for ten years, 15 years, or as long as it takes. The kids? Oh, them. If Mother’s Day is a show, babies are props, and children are actors awaiting a script, cues, and direction. Adolescents? To belabor the showbiz analogy, they are like Las Vegas tigers. You never know whether they’re going to jump through a hoop for you or claw your heart out. They’re never really tame, and lots of people won’t work with them.

What makes me an expert? I’ve been married for 24 years to the SAME woman, I’m a veteran of 21 Mother’s Days, and I’m as naturally lazy, thoughtless, and unprepared as the worst of you.

The good news is that this is one holiday for which you can get away cheap. It calls for extravagance of feeling, not outlay of treasure.

If this will be your wife’s first Mother’s Day, here’s what to do: On the day before, buy a substantial bouquet and a piece of your wife’s favorite pastry. No merchandise! On a small card, write, “To the best mom a child could have.” It may seem unmanly, but sign the baby’s name. (Backwards N’s, R’s, or S’s are optional.) The note tells your wife: This is really Junior’s deal, but I’ll carry his weight because I’m a stand-up guy.

On the big morning, when Junior awakens for his first feeding of the day, clean him up and present him to the guest of honor (if breast-feeding; otherwise, YOU milk him). Follow up with the modest gifts. The rest of the day, stay close by and render about twice your usual amount of child care. family

Illustration by Trygve Olson

New Fathers’ Guide To Mother’s Day

That’s all there is to it. Do any less and you de-motivate your team’s star player. Do more and YOU are taking on the holiday, and there will be adult-sized expectations of you. You’ve already got your anniversary, your wife’s birthday, Valentine’s Day, and probably Christmas to deal with. If you need yet another day to express your love, see an anthropologist; you might be a new kind of man.

Some new fathers are still awed by the rigors of childbirth and will think this is a time for diamonds and rubies. That’s OK right after childbirth, but you’re really taking a wrong turn if you do it for Mother’s Day. Also, word will get out and you’ll be shunned at the gym.

So, was I ever forgiven for muffing Mother’s Day? Eventually, but my penance wasn’t pretty. Several years later, I agreed to accompany my wife to see that notorious chick flick “Bridget Jones’ Diary.”

There were about 100 women in the theater and one other guy. I don’t know what HE’D done, but it must have been heinous.

Rick Epstein is a regular contributor to The Village Family Magazine.

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April/May 2012 13

YOUR FAMILY z feature

More than 70 people die in the U.S. each day as a result of prescription drug overdose.

By Lonna Whiting The National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports that an estimated 40 to 75 percent of elderly patients either forget to take their medications, overuse them, or take them improperly.

Increased health problems as people get older, as well as an explosion of new medications available to treat these chronic health conditions, can lead to difficulties managing multiple medications.

“If you’re aging normally, you probably won’t have a problem remembering to take your medications,” says Dr. Lindsey Dahl, a Sanford Health internal medicine doctor who specializes in geriatrics. However, with multiple medications it’s important to establish some sort of routine, and a way to track which medications you’ve taken and when you’ve taken them to avoid overdosing or other complications.

Dahl says being actively involved as a patient or patient advocate will ultimately eliminate issues of overmedication.

Good advocacy always involves maintaining communication with your primary care provider and pharmacist.

Sanford Health Registered Pharmacist Cheryl Halvorson stresses the importance of not only knowing the implications

14 April/May 2012

of medications, but also understanding how multiple prescriptions can adversely interact with one another. “Most elderly people are on a lot of prescription and over-the-counter medication,” she says. “Each person needs to be their own patient advocate or have someone who can speak on their behalf.”

If you or someone you care for takes a variety of medications on a regular basis, here are some practical tips and routines to help promote regular, proper use of prescription and over-the-counter therapies.

Befriend a pharmacist It’s the job of your regular doctor to know a patient’s body and overall health so he can prescribe medications as needed. But your pharmacist is often an untapped source of information about medications.

From side effects to drug interactions, visiting the same pharmacy and talking with the same pharmacist each time you fill a prescription means you have another advocate watching out for your health and well-being.

“If I have a patient who uses our pharmacy exclusively, I’ll

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family

have a complete list of their medications and I will be able to tell if we may encounter a drug interaction,” Halvorson says. “When I get to know the patient, they are also often more comfortable asking questions.”

Maintaining communication with a trusted pharmacist and your physician are two ways to avoid overmedication or other harmful drug interactions.

Make a medication list Santa Claus isn’t the only guy who makes a list and checks it twice. You should be doing the same with your list of medications, says Halvorson.

“It’s extremely important that everyone has a complete list of all the medications they are taking,” she says. “Brand name and generic drugs can be prescribed in different ways by different doctors.”

Keep the bottles your drugs come in. The labels include the name of the drug and how to take them, and also how many refills you have left.

Even though nutritional and herbal supplements are not regulated by the Federal Drug Administration, it’s important to add these items onto the list of medications you are taking as well, because they are considered drugs. “Supplements should be seen as drugs and should be taken with caution with prescription medications,” Halvorson says. Many supplements are known to interact negatively with other prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

Here are a few more considerations about medication lists: • Make a complete list of all your medications including prescriptions, over-the counter, and supplements.

• Update the list every time you add or eliminate a medication.

• Include known drug allergies and sensitivities.

• Keep note of current dosage amounts and update as needed.

• Keep a copy of the medication list with you at all times.

• Give a copy of the list to a family member, trusted friend, or keep a copy posted on your refrigerator to grab in case of an emergency.

• Take the medication list with you to all medical appointments, especially if you are visiting a new doctor or pharmacist.

• Share your medication list with your registered pharmacist.

Know your meds If you can’t identify what a medication is and what it’s used for, ask a doctor or pharmacist and take good notes.

“Take responsibility to know what medications you or your loved one are on,” Halvorson says. “Know why it is being prescribed and what they do.”

There are medications that are safe for people in their 50s and 60s that are not always safe for people in their later years.

Medications as ordinary as the sleep aid Tylenol PM, for example, are considered potentially unsafe for use by the elderly.

Once you have a working medication list, in addition to adequate knowledge about the medications, you are more likely to take them regularly, correctly, and at the prescribed time.

As supplementary information sources, internet sites like www. rxlist.com and www.drugs.com offer data about virtually all prescription medications. In addition, a Google search for most medications will direct you to information from the NIH. Internet words of caution: Be careful when searching and avoid “discussion groups” where people chat about side effects and various ailments. These are usually inaccurate resources and can cause “cyberchondria,” a condition much like hypochondria, where people compulsively research real and imagined symptoms in an effort to self-diagnose.

Medication reminder services Medication reminder services help patients properly take their medications and are available at little or no cost.

These services will contact you multiple times in a day, if necessary, to remind you to take your medications. The site www.MyMedSchedule.com helps you manage your meds for free and, among other things, allows you to set up text or email reminders to take your medications. Medication Reminder Service is another option that can be as low as $14.95 per month.

Use a pill reminder Pill organizers come in a wide selection of organizational categories from weekly to monthly. Some organizers have removable daily compartments you can take with you.

You can even purchase zip-top plastic pouches with a markable label on them to organize your medications. Products available online from sites like www. medcentersystems.com can also be

family

Federal Guidelines for Drug Disposal from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Follow any specific disposal instructions on the drug label or patient information that accompanies the medication. Do not flush prescription drugs down the toilet unless this information specifically instructs you to do so.

Take advantage of community drug take-back programs that allow the public to bring unused drugs to a central location for proper disposal.

Call your city or county government’s household trash and recycling service (see blue pages in phone book) to see if a take-back program is available in your community. The Drug Enforcement Administration, working with state and local law enforcement agencies, is sponsoring National Prescription Drug Take Back Days throughout the United States. The next one is scheduled for April 28.

If no instructions are given on the drug label and no take-back program is available in your area, throw the drugs in the household trash, but first: • Take them out of their original containers and mix them with an undesirable substance, such as used coffee grounds or kitty litter. The medication will be less appealing to children and pets, and unrecognizable to people who may intentionally go through your trash.

• Put them in a sealable bag, empty can, or other container to prevent the medication from leaking or breaking out of a garbage bag.

FDA’s Deputy Director of the Office of Compliance Ilisa Bernstein, Pharm.D., J.D., offers some additional tips: • Before throwing out a medicine container, scratch out all identifying information on the prescription label to make it unreadable. This will help protect your identity and the privacy of your personal health information.

• Do not give medications to friends.

Doctors prescribe drugs based on a person’s specific symptoms and medical history. A drug that works for you could be dangerous for someone else.

• When in doubt about proper disposal, talk to your pharmacist.

Bernstein says the same disposal methods for prescription drugs could apply to over-the-counter drugs as well.

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April/May 2012 15

effective tools in helping to categorize, organize, and streamline medications.

If you have an iPhone, Droid, or other smartphone, you can download a pill minder app. One iPhone owner downloaded the Pill Minder and raved about the service, going so far as to say: “After using this app two things have happened…I remember to take my pills...BUT THE BIGGIE FOR ME…I don’t take them twice...there were so many days where I took them and then took them again because I can’t remember if I took them.”

Caregiver Tips If you find yourself taking care of a loved one and are responsible for managing medications, communicate with a trusted doctor or pharmacist.

“When there are issues, it’s easiest to have one family member as the go-between between me as the physician and the patient,” Dahl says. “The most important thing is for children and spouses to be aware that there could be a problem and have some oversight so that they are helping with the pill box.”

Be sure to interact regularly and often with your loved one so you are aware of behavioral changes, especially if there is significant memory loss or dementia. “People can really function well in short interactions with their family members,” Dahl says. “But they can be missing pills that we’re not aware of until it’s a big issue.”

Here is a list of questions adapted from www.agingcare. com for caregivers to ask whenever a doctor prescribes a new medication for an elder dependent: Why is this medicine prescribed?

How does the medicine work?

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hat are possible common side effects?

W Will this medicine interact with other medications?

When will the medicine begin to work?

What should I do if my loved one misses a dose?

Should he/she take it with meals?

Does he/she need to drink a whole glass of water with it?

Are there foods, drugs, or activities he/she should avoid while taking this medicine?

Are there any foods or beverages to avoid?

Is it safe to drink alcohol while on this medicine?

How long will he/she have to take the medicine? Will we need a refill? How do I arrange that?

Do you have written information about the medicine that I can take home with me?

The final important tip when managing multiple medications is to purge the medicine cabinet on a regular basis. Every six months to a year, it is recommended you bag up all your prescriptions, supplements, and over-the-counter medications and take them with you to your doctor for a complete review.

Lonna Whiting is a freelance writer. She lives in Fargo.

More Prescription Tips Ohio State’s Wexner Medical Center offers many useful tips on managing medications. Here is some practical advice about safely using prescription and over-the-counter drugs: • Keep medications in their original containers— except for those you put in an organizer. The labels contain important information such as medication name, dosage, doctor’s name, and expiration dates.

• Do not take medication in the dark, when you are tired, or when you are distracted. You might take the wrong medication or too much. Ask for help, if needed, to find and take the correct medication.

• Alcohol can interact with many different kinds of drugs. Ask your physician or pharmacist if it is safe to drink alcohol with any prescription or overthe-counter medication.

• When children or grandchildren are around, keep medication containers out of reach, particularly those that do not have childproof caps.

• Never take a medication that was prescribed for someone else.

• If your physician has told you to discontinue a medication, dispose of it immediately.

• Dispose of a medication once the expiration date has passed. Follow any specific disposal instructions on the drug label or patient information that accompanies the medication. (See FDA guidelines for additional information.)

• Never stop taking a medication on your own— always get your physician’s guidance. Some medications must be stopped gradually to avoid complications.

• If the medication is making you feel sick or causing side effects you find difficult to tolerate, talk to your physician about adjusting the dose or changing the medication.

Source: http://medicalcenter.osu.edu

16 April/May 2012

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family

Taking it Outdoors: Exercise Safely This Spring

G

etting outside for fresh air and exercise is one of the joys of spring.

There are few things nicer than feeling the sun on your face as you run a few miles or even walk a few blocks outdoors.

However, moving from the treadmill—or even the couch—to exercising outside requires a little care.

“Everybody’s excited about moving outside, now that our cold weather and icy roads are gone,” says Jason Borud, an athletic trainer at Sanford’s POWER Center. “You just want to make sure that you do it in the right way so you can enjoy the months to come.”

Stay Safe In the first few months of spring, drivers are not used to looking for pedestrians on roadways and sidewalks, says sports medicine physician Dr. Matthew Friederichs. Every year the orthopedic surgeon sees injuries to runners or walkers who are hit by cars.

“As you transition to the outdoors, you need to wear reflective gear and expect that drivers may not see you,” Dr. Friederichs says. “Safety is our biggest concern in the spring.”

Training on established trails or wellmarked sidewalks can be a good way to make sure that you stay away from car traffic and are less likely to trip or fall on unfamiliar terrain, says the orthopedic surgeon.

Watch your step as you run or walk to avoid injury, he says. Even paths or roads that you have taken in the past may have some extra buckling or potholes in the spring.

Don’t Overdo It Moving from a treadmill or indoor track to running or walking on pavement is a bit of a shock to your system at first, says

Borud. Remember that there is a little less “give” under your feet when you first exercise back outside.

“It’s important that you back your mileage down a little at first and see how your legs tolerate it,” Borud says. “If it’s going well, you can gradually ramp it back up.”

Even though you’re excited about hitting the trails outside, take the time to stretch both before and after exercising, the trainer says. It’s also important to make sure you give yourself a five or ten minute warm-up and cool down period at the beginning and end of your workout.

“If you want to prevent an injury, it’s just a good habit to get into,” Borud says.

Use the Right Gear Wearing good quality, comfortable shoes will pay off in the long run, says Dr. Friederichs. A good pair of running or walking shoes will make your workout more comfortable and prevent injury.

“When you look at spending money on shoes versus spending money on medical expenses, it’s worth it to buy a good pair of shoes,” Dr. Friederichs says.

Don’t run or walk in worn-out shoes, he says. The more miles you put on your shoes, the faster they’ll need to be replaced.

Listen to Your Body Exercising sometimes makes your muscles tired or achy, but it shouldn’t cause pain that doesn’t go away. Ignoring lingering pain can lead to an injury that could sideline you from regular workouts, Borud says.

Even casual athletes can develop shin splints or knee pain due to a muscle imbalance or inflexibility or running with the wrong foot posture. If something persistently hurts, a sports medicine expert can help you determine if you need to change the mechanics of how you walk or run, the trainer says.

“Pain is not normal,” Borud says.

“People get frustrated and think it hurts to run, but there are things we can do to avoid that pain.”

All of us can enjoy nature and use it as a motivation to shake up and kick up our exercise routine, the sports medicine experts say. Just take the effort to make sure your workout is fun and safe as you head outdoors.

This Medical Update was brought to you by Sanford Health.

For more information about exercise safety, visit www.sanfordhealth.org.

2012

2ND Annual Motorcycle Run & Party

Saturday, June 2ND 2012 MORNING EVENTS:

Ride registration at 9:30 AM • Kickstands up at noon

Presented by:

Breakfast • Inflatable games • Kids games, face painting & prizes • Chance to win 1 of 25 children’s bikes • Vendors • Raffles • Auctions • Battle of the Bikes Contest Event merchandise • Special Guest: Custom Bike Builder Donnie Smith

EVENING EVENTS:

5:30 PM - 1:30 AM Dinner: Spitfire Bar & Grill and Mrs. Fields • Beverages: Budweiser & Coke • Live & Silent auctions • Raffle • Bull riding Tattoo & Battle of the Bikes Contest • 50/50 Live music: Blind Joe, TBA and headline 32 Below

All proceeds benefiting:

BIG BIKES & LITTLE TYKES 2012 RAFFLE $10.00/TICKET

Grand Prize:

All inclusive Sturgis Rally Vacation Package for 2 people August 6 , 2012 – August 12 , 2012 th

th

(Donated by Easyriders Saloon & Glencoe Camp Resort)

First Prize:

Cub Cadet LTX 1042 Riding Lawn mower (Donated by: Garden Hut)

Second Prize:

Third Prize:

(Donated in part by: Indigo Signworks)

(Donated by: Pure Performance Motorcycles)

Custom NDSU Neon Clock with signatures (digital) of the NCAA Division 1 Champion Football team

Custom Motorcycle Dyno Mapping

For event details, visit BigBikesandLittleTykes.com or call 701-799-5034.

18 April/May 2012

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family

Ask the Expert

FINANCE

Child Development

Financial Counselor The Village Family Service Center

Recreational Director TNT Kid’s Fitness

Marybeth Vigeland

planning on buying a house in a few months and want Q:I’m to raise my credit score. Where do I begin?

A:

While you won’t be able to change your score overnight, here are some tips to increase your credit score.

1. Clean up your credit history. Credit scores are drawn from information in your credit history, so anything that’s wrong there will show up on your credit score. Go to annualcreditreport.com and pull a free copy of your credit history. Carefully comb through it and check it for mistakes.

2. Lower your utilization ratio. Your utilization ratio is the amount you owe on credit cards versus your available credit. It’s best to keep your utilization ratio below 30%. So if your credit limit is $1,000 on one card, you don’t want to owe more than $300 on that card.

3. Dust off an old card. If you have an account that you’ve had for ages but haven’t used—and it is still open—use it for a small purchase. While technically still open, the card company may no longer be reporting the account to the credit bureaus. Using the card will increase the amount of available credit you show.

And more importantly, the length of your credit history makes up about 15% of your credit score so bringing an old account back to life could help.

The Village Family Service Center Locations throughout MN and ND 701-235-3328 | 1-800-450-4019 www.HelpWithMoney.org

Estate Planning Janet Zinke

Development Officer The Village Family Service Center

Q:

As our kids are now preparing for college, my husband and I think it is time to update our will.

We are considering including some charities since our net worth has grown considerably and we are not close to retirement age. What would you recommend?

Leaving a legacy for your children and others allows you to continue to support what you love and believe in; even after you are no longer here. There are many things to consider. I would recommend you take a step back to assess the actual outcomes you’d like your estate plan to accomplish.

Ask yourself: What are our hopes and dreams for leaving a legacy and how can we achieve them? What planned giving tools are the best to support this plan? What feels best for us and our loved ones? What are the tax benefits of leaving a charitable gift? What does our financial advisor or tax preparer recommend?

A:

To explore your options, go to www.TheVillageFamily.org/ giftplanning. You can also call Jenny at 701-451-4957 for a free copy of our Wills and Estate Planning Guide.

The Village Family Service Center Locations throughout MN and ND 701-451-4900 | 1-800-450-4019 www.TheVillageFamily.org

family

Rhanda Laqua

Q: Why should my preschooler take a gymnastics class?

A:

Gymnastics is the foundation of all movement-a springboard into all other sports. It nurtures a lifelong habit of physical fitness with exploration and creative movement. It enhances focus, balance, strength, flexibility, and coordination. Hand-eye coordination improves a child’s writing ability and eye-tracking develops a child’s reading readiness. Social skills, goal setting, and confidence are also benefits of a good gymnastics class. Children learn to take turns, work with partners, share and flourish in a group environment. TNT’s preschool program is designed to introduce basic gymnastics skill through creative movement and exploration. Musical play, obstacle courses, balance beam, bars, basic tumbling, and trampoline are incorporated into every class. We use themes, schemes, rhythm, and rhyme to create a learning environment. A variety of gross and fine motor activities are also included. Our preschoolers leave TNT with a sense of accomplishment and look forward to the challenges the next class will bring! For more program information, please email rhanda@tntkidsfitness.org

TNT Kid’s Fitness 1-701-365-8868 www.tntkidsfitness.org

Ask The Expert

Your photo here

Your Area of Expertise Your name here Your job title here The Ask the Expert section in The Village Family Magazine identifies YOU as “The Expert” in your field. The ad promotes you as the “go-to person” when there’s a question or problem in your field of expertise, and promotes your business as the place to get the answers, products, and services our readers need.

Q: Present a problem or question from your clients here.

A: Answer with your expert advice here. Let your answer show potential clients how professional and knowledgeable you really are, or how your product or service will help them.

150 words or less (Ad size is 311/16˝ x 415/16˝ ) Your logo here

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Address Telephone Email or web address

April/May 2012 19

YOUR FAMILY z money

By Heidi Tetzman Roepke

The temptation to spend money is everywhere. From the seemingly innocent daily stop at the coffee shop for a latte, to buying the latest electronic gizmo we “must” have, many of us spend more than we make. Debt snowballs, and soon we’re worried about making even the minimum payments on credit cards. We go into more debt to make up for the lack of cash, so having anything left over to plan for emergencies or the future isn’t even on our radar.

Stashing away just a small amount each paycheck, or every month, can help you avoid this crushing cycle. But when you’re not sure if there’s any wiggle room in your budget, where do you begin?

20 April/May 2012

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family

First things first To avoid the pitfalls of either starting a savings plan you can’t sustain, or never starting one in the first place because it seems impossible, Duane Emmel, financial counselor at The Village Family Service Center, recommends first tracking all your spending for three months.

“Until you know where your money is going, you will not stick with a savings program,” Emmel says. “People will put money away and then withdraw it every month because they haven’t changed the spending. Spending has to change.”

This may be the most difficult part of the process, because you must be honest with yourself regarding your spending.

“You have to fess up,” Emmel says. “We lie to ourselves all the time. And we are very good at justifying our purchases.”

A pocket-sized financial tracker form is available at www.

HelpWithMoney.org. Just click on the forms button on the lefthand side, then select pocket financial tracker.

After writing down every dollar you spend for three months, you may be surprised to find how quickly those $10 lunches add up. Look closely at where your cash is going and determine where you can cut spending to free up money to direct toward savings.

“Once priorities are covered,” Emmel says, “you can look at, if I eat out half as often, or spend half as much on entertainment, I can go ahead and put that extra $50 or $75 into a savings program.”

Starting a savings plan doesn’t mean you can never go to a movie or out to dinner again. Emmel points to a study that found when people put ten percent of their income into a savings plan, it did not change their lifestyle.

“A lot of times, we simply waste ten percent of our money buying little things that we don’t need or doing things that we really could do without,” Emmel says.

no substitute for keeping an emergency savings account at a federally-insured bank or credit union, and discourages using a money market mutual fund for this purpose.

Regardless of the type of savings account you choose, what’s critical is getting accustomed to saving regularly and building up an emergency fund over time. “I think it’s more important to just get in the habit of doing it, because with emergency savings, it’s not so much the interest rate as having that money available,” Emmel says.

The most pain-free way of establishing a good savings habit is to put money into a savings account automatically. Set up a regular online account transfer from your checking account to your savings account. If you stop at the bank on payday and deposit your paycheck into checking, move a set amount over to savings right then, too. According to Emmel, automatically putting money into savings eliminates the temptation to spend.

“Once it’s gone, it’s not even thought about. And research has shown that when people do that, it becomes very effective.

They can live without it,” he says.

How much is enough?

When determining how much you’ll need for your emergency fund, Emmel suggests going through your budget and determining how much you spent on emergency-type expenses the year before. You might include car repairs, oil changes, license tabs, and medical expenses. Then divide that by 12. This is the amount you should set aside each month to cover it. He also suggests putting extra money that comes up, a large tax refund for instance, toward your emergency fund.

June Radke, branch manager at State Bank and Trust in

Making a plan Once you have successfully tracked your spending for three months and know where your money is going, it’s time to create a budget or spending plan.

A wide variety of budget worksheets are available online.

Reputable websites such as www.daveramsey.com or The Village’s www.HelpWithMoney.org have PDF files you can print out and fill in with your personal budget information.

After completing the form, step back and take a look at your monthly income and monthly expenses. If you have more income than expense, congratulations! Now you need to determine where you’re going to save that excess.

However, if your expenses exceed your income, it’s time to take a good hard look at where you can cut back and trim some of your spending to start dedicating money to savings.

Emergency savings The first priority in establishing savings is to set aside a fund for emergencies. Life happens—a car repair here, a medical bill there—and without savings to cover those costs, you can rack up a stressful amount of debt in no time. Having an emergency fund to draw from for these expenses can help you avoid such headaches.

A good place to build up your emergency fund is a regular or basic savings account. Most banks or credit unions offer a simple savings account with small minimum balance requirements. A savings account gives you quick access to the funds, which is critical in an emergency.

In the book “Suze Orman’s Action Plan: New Rules For New Times,” author and money expert Suze Orman says there is family

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April/May 2012 21

Moorhead, doesn’t point to a specific dollar amount when saving in general, but rather suggests saving whatever fits in your budget. “We see disciplined savers do ten percent.” On the other hand, she says, “We also see some people who do maybe too small of an amount, and they stop saving when they don’t see it adding up to very much.”

Elizabeth Warren and Amelia Warren Tyagi, authors of “All Your Worth: The Ultimate Lifetime Money Plan,” recommend starting your savings by always keeping a cushion of $1,000 in your checking account, “just in case.” “This is the money that makes sure you can manage life’s little ups and downs. It is OK to spend this money when you need it; just be sure to build it right back up the next time you get paid,” they say.

Orman recommends keeping a much higher amount in a savings account—enough to support your family for up to eight months. “The call to action is that you must start saving, or saving more, today,” she says.

Whatever the dollar amount you can afford to stash away, the important thing is to save something and to make it a habit.

“One of the things that plagues us in our economy and our culture today is we have a tendency to not put anything into savings,” Emmel says. “I really feel, whatever the increment is, if it’s $20 a month, or $50, or whatever you can do, you get into a habit of always putting money into a savings account.”

Beyond short term savings “As people start out, it’s just important to develop that short-term emergency savings,” Emmel says. “Once you’ve accomplished that first step, then you can go into that second step of long-term savings.”

22 April/May 2012

Saving for retirement should be your next priority. Here is where employer-sponsored 401(k) or 403(b) retirement programs come into play. There are a wide variety of investment and savings vehicles available for long-term savings. The key here is long-term. Funds devoted to this type of savings are not as liquid as those in a simple savings account. It’s important to understand that this money can’t be withdrawn without major penalties. The trade-off is a higher rate of return.

“That’s why you have to determine, can I totally do without this money? If yes, then put it into a longer-term investment. If you have to have access, you should probably just keep it in a simple savings or checking account,” Emmel says.

Secondary long-term goals might include setting aside funds for your children’s education, or for any purchase or commitment that takes place more than five years down the road.

Medium-term savings goals are for those items you would like to purchase in the next 18 months to five years. Perhaps you’re interested in buying a new car, a recreational vehicle, or even a house. You need to accumulate some savings, but you don’t need to have access to it every day. Money market savings or checking accounts from your bank typically have a higher rate of return, but also require a higher minimum balance to encourage you to keep the money in the account, growing.

Certificates of deposit (CDs) are another savings vehicle for both medium-term or long-term savings. You tie up your money for a certain time frame and face penalties if you withdraw the money early. The longer the term of a CD, the higher the yield.

villagefamilymag.org

family

Starting young The path to saving should begin at a young age. As soon as a child starts handling money, whether it’s a gift from Grandma in a birthday card or an allowance, teachable moments arise to introduce and reinforce saving concepts.

Emmel suggests letting children save a part and spend a part of their money.

“I think you want to teach them that money is a limited resource and we have to use it wisely,” he advises. “Make sure part of it goes into a savings program, even having a savings account at the bank, so they can go inside and see where their money is going.”

State Bank and Trust’s June Radke agrees. “If you start at a young age, chances are you will always save.”

How parents handle money has an effect on children’s attitudes about money as well. If parents don’t have a savings habit, it can be more difficult for children to develop one.

“Most things in life are caught, not taught,” Emmel says. “We learn from watching others. If it isn’t something we ourselves do, how are our kids going to do it?”

Emmel does acknowledge individual “money personalities” also play a role.

There may be three or four children in a family, and each can have a different money personality. One might be a saver and another, a spender. If Mom and Dad never put a dime toward savings, it doesn’t mean the next generation is doomed to financial failure.

“A lot of times we become what we watched growing up, or people become the opposite, where you might say, I watched Mom and Dad struggle because they didn’t handle things well, and when I get a job I’m going to make sure that I do it differently,” Emmel says.

Everyone has a money personality.

Emmel encourages those who want to start a savings plan to ask themselves, “What does money really mean to me?” or “How can I use money as a tool for my benefit, and not an object that I can simply just waste, without any long-term benefit?”

Once a dollar is spent, it’s gone forever, Emmel reminds us. “So you have to make sure you’re spending every dollar wisely, because you only get one opportunity to use it.”

Heidi Tetzman Roepke is a freelance writer and copy editor/page designer at The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead. She lives in Fargo with her husband, Dave, and their cat, Sahara. family

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villagefamilymag.org

April/May 2012 23

Calendar of Events

To include an event in our family-friendly calendar, email shendricksen@TheVillageFamily.org.

Deadline for the June/July calendar is May 1, 2012. Due to space restrictions, we are not able to include all submissions.

Although we strive to be as accurate as possible, it is a good idea to call ahead to check times and locations and to see if the event requires registration. Event fees may apply.

APRIL 2012 EVENTS 4.1 Sunday • High School Honor Band Concert. 1 p.m., Memorial Auditorium, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-4515 • Chamber Music Series: April Fools.

2 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 650 2nd Ave. N., Fargo, 218-233-8397 or www.fmsymphony.org • Concordia Echo Band Concert.

7:30 p.m., Buxton Hall/Hanson Hall, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218299-4515 4.2 Monday • FM RedHawks Tickets on Sale. Fans can start purchasing individual game tickets for the 2012 season.10 a.m., Newman Outdoor Field, 1515 15th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-235-6161 or www. fmredhawks.com

Make It A

Play Date 012

2 July 10-15,

Red River Valley Fair West Fargo, ND

www.RedRiverValleyFair.com 24 April/May 2012

4.3 Tuesday • Nighttime Easter Egg Hunt. Hunt for eggs, meet the Easter Bunny, crafts, and inflatable games. Ages 2-8. 5-7 p.m., Veterans Memorial Arena, 1201 7th Ave. E., West Fargo, 701-433-5360 or www.wfparks.org • Blue Man Group Concert. 7:30 p.m., Fargodome, 1800 N. University Dr., Fargo, 701-241-9100 or www. fargodome.com 4.4 Wednesday • Children’s Storytime. 10 a.m., Barnes and Noble, 1201 42nd St. S.W., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com • Blue Man Group Concert. 7:30 p.m., Fargodome, 1800 N. University Dr., Fargo, 701-241-9100 or www. fargodome.com 4.5 Thursday • Feast or Famine. Learn about the gray wolf’s hunting and feeding behaviors, then watch a feeding. Space is limited, call for reservations. 7-8 p.m., Red River Zoo, 4255 23rd Ave. S., Fargo, 701-277-9240 or www.redriverzoo.org 4.6 Friday • School’s Out Day Camp. Call for details and to sign up. TNT Kids Fitness, 2800 Main Ave., Fargo, 701365-8868 or www.tntkidsfitness.com • Annual Easter Eggstravaganza. Egg hunts at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. & 3 p.m., The Children’s Museum at Yunker Farm, 1201 28th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-232-6102 or www.childrensmuseum-yunker.org • Open Gym. Ages 5-18. 7-9 p.m., TNT Kids Fitness, 2800 Main Ave., Fargo, 701-365-8868 or www.tntkidsfitness. com • Fargo Force vs. Sioux Falls Stampede. 7:35 p.m., Scheels Arena, 5225 31st Ave. S., Fargo, 701-364-3672 or www.fargoforce.com 4.7 Saturday • Children’s Storytime. 11 a.m., Barnes and Noble, 1201 42nd St. S.W., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com • Annual Easter Eggstravaganza. Egg hunts at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. & 3 p.m., The

Children’s Museum at Yunker Farm, 1201 28th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-232-6102 or www.childrensmuseum-yunker.org • Fargo Force vs. Sioux Falls Stampede. 7:05 p.m., Scheels Arena, 5225 31st Ave. S., Fargo, 701-364-3672 or www.fargoforce.com 4.9 Monday • School’s Out Day Camp. Call for details and to sign up. TNT Kids Fitness, 2800 Main Ave., Fargo, 701365-8868 or www.tntkidsfitness.com 4.10 Tuesday • School’s Out Day Camp. Call for details and to sign up. TNT Kids Fitness, 2800 Main Ave., Fargo, 701365-8868 or www.tntkidsfitness.com • Youth Track Program. Introduce your child to track activities. Ages 3-5 at 5:45 p.m., ages 6-12 at 6:30 p.m., Veterans Memorial Arena, 1201 7th Ave. E., West Fargo, 701-433-5360 or www.wfparks. org 4.11 Wednesday • Children’s Storytime. 10 a.m., Barnes and Noble, 1201 42nd St. S.W., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com 4.12 Thursday • New Life Center Prayer Breakfast & Evening Dessert. Susie Larson, author, media voice for Moody Radio, national speaker, and radio talk show host, will give an inspirational message at both events. Seating is limited, call for ticket information. Breakfast at 9:30 a.m., dessert at 7:30 p.m., Hilton Garden Inn, 4351 17th Ave. S., Fargo, 701-281-7027 (breakfast), 218-2336497 (dessert), or www.fargonlc.org • Springtime Styles. Soroptimist International of Moorhead style show and silent auction. Tickets available from Dorothy Agather at State Bank & Trust, Moorhead. 1 p.m., Christ the King Lutheran Church, 1900 14th St. S., Moorhead. Call 218-233-7521 or email monica.douglass@lssmn.org for more information • Fargo Air Museum Celebrity Auction.

Live and silent auctions, dinner, and

family

program. 5:30 p.m., Fargo Air Museum, 1609 19th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-293-8043 or www.fargoairmuseum.org 4.13 Friday • “Camino Real.” 8 p.m., Main Stage, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-2993314 • “Fidelio.” 8 p.m., Festival Concert Hall, NDSU, Fargo, 701-239-4558 or www. fmopera.org 4.14 Saturday • March of Dimes March for Babies.

Registration at 9 a.m., walk begins at 10 a.m., Fargodome, 1800 N. University Dr., Fargo, 701-235-5530 or www. marchforbabies.org • Teddy Bear Tea Party. Girls, ages 4-8, bring your teddy bear to a fun-filled tea party. 10-11 a.m., Veterans Memorial Arena Meeting Room, 1201 7th Ave. E., West Fargo, 701-433-5360 or www. wfparks.org • Children’s Storytime. 11 a.m., Barnes and Noble, 1201 42nd St. S.W., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com • FM Adopt-A-Pet Adoption Days. Visit animals available for adoption. 1-3 p.m., PETCO, 1126 43rd St. S.W., Fargo, 701-232-5856 • 4 Luv of Dog Rescue “Meet the Dogs.” Visit dogs available for adoption.

1-3 p.m., PetSmart, 1630 13th Ave. E., West Fargo, 701-205-0190 or www.4luvofdog.org • Awesome Art Afternoon. 1-3 p.m., RDJ Rec Center, 1104 2nd Ave. S., Fargo, 701-499-7788 or www. fargoparks.com • “Camino Real.” 2 p.m. & 8 p.m., Main Stage, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-3314 • FM Derby Girls Home Teams Championship Game. 7 p.m., Fargo Civic Center, 207 4th St. N., Fargo, www.fmderbygirls.com • Fargo Force vs. Lincoln Stars. 7:05 p.m., Scheels Arena, 5225 31st Ave. S., Fargo, 701-364-3672 or www.fargoforce. com 4.15 Sunday • “Camino Real.” 2 p.m., Main Stage, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-2993314 • “Fidelio.” 2 p.m., Festival Concert Hall, NDSU, Fargo, 701-239-4558 or www. fmopera.org • Handbell Choir Concert. 4 p.m., Centrum, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-4515

4.17 Tuesday • Youth Track Program. Introduce your child to track activities. Ages 3-5 at 5:45 p.m., ages 6-12 at 6:30 p.m., Veterans Memorial Arena, 1201 7th Ave. E., West Fargo, 701-433-5360 or www.wfparks. org 4.18 Wednesday • Children’s Storytime. 10 a.m., Barnes and Noble, 1201 42nd St. S.W., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com • Gooseberry Park Players Informational Session. For students, ages 11-18, who are interested in participating in a July 2012 musical comedy production. 6 p.m., Frances Frazier Comstock Theatre, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-3728 4.19 Thursday • Gooseberry Park Players Informational Session. For students, ages 11-18, who are interested in participating in a July 2012 musical comedy production. 6 p.m., Frances Frazier Comstock Theatre, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-3728 4.20 Friday • One Act Play Festival. 7 p.m., Lab Theatre, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-3314 • Open Gym. Ages 5-18. 7-9 p.m., TNT Kids Fitness, 2800 Main Ave., Fargo, 701-365-8868 or www.tntkidsfitness. com • “The Merry Wives of Wahpeton.” 7:30 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www. fmct.org 4.21 Saturday • Gigantic Rummage Sale. Antiques, crafts, collectibles, and more. 7 a.m.-2 p.m., Veterans Memorial Arena, 1201 7th Ave. E., West Fargo. To register for a booth, call 701-433-5360 or visit www. wfparks.org • American Heart Association Red River Valley Heart Walk. Registration at 9 a.m., walk begins at 10 a.m., Scheels Arena, 5225 31st Ave. S., Fargo, 701-212-3995 or www. redrivervalleyheartwalk.org • Children’s Storytime. 11 a.m., Barnes and Noble, 1201 42nd St. S.W., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com • Party for the Planet. Celebrate Earth Day with an environmental extravaganza. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Red River Zoo, 4255 23rd Ave. S., Fargo, 701-2779240 or www.redriverzoo.org

family

April/May 2012 25

4.21 Saturday (cont.)

• NDSU Spring Game. 1 p.m., Fargodome, 1800 N. University Dr., Fargo, 701-241-9100 or www.fargodome.com • The Arc Attic Treasures Next Top Model Fashion Show.

Proceeds go to programs for people with developmental disabilities. Tickets available at The Arc Attic Treasures stores or The Arc of Cass County office. 2 p.m., Cheney Middle School, 825 17th Ave. E., West Fargo, 701-293-8191 • One Act Play Festival. 7 p.m., Lab Theatre, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-3314 • “The Merry Wives of Wahpeton.” 7:30 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct. org • Masterworks Series: Beethoven & Mahler Grand Finale.

8 p.m., Festival Concert Hall, NDSU, Fargo, 218-233-8397 or www.fmsymphony.org 4.22 Sunday • Earth Day Celebration. 1-5 p.m., The Children’s Museum at Yunker Farm, 1201 28th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-232-6102 or www. childrensmuseum-yunker.org • “The Merry Wives of Wahpeton.” 2 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct.org • Masterworks Series: Beethoven & Mahler Grand Finale.

2 p.m., Festival Concert Hall, NDSU, Fargo, 218-233-8397 or www.fmsymphony.org • Oratorio Concert. 4 p.m., Memorial Auditorium, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-4515 • Casting Crowns Concert. 7 p.m., Fargodome, 1800 N. University Dr., Fargo, 701-241-9100 or www.fargodome.com

Garden Party Saturday, April 28th

• Win a plant at the plant walk

• Create spring crafts

• Get your face painted by Thomas Face Painting

• Go on a bug hunt

• See and touch critters from the Red River Zoo

Rheault Farm 2902 25th St. S. 1:30 - 4:30 p.m.

FREE

26 April/May 2012

• Concessions available for a small fee

4.23 Monday • Vocal Jazz/Jazz Ensemble Concert. 7:30 p.m., Memorial Auditorium, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-4515 4.24 Tuesday • Rape & Abuse Crisis Center Kids Are Our Business Breakfast. 7:30-8:30 a.m., Holiday Inn, 3803 13th Ave. S., Fargo, 701-293-7273 or www.raccfm.com • Youth Track Program. Introduce your child to track activities.

Ages 3-5 at 5:45 p.m., ages 6-12 at 6:30 p.m., Veterans Memorial Arena, 1201 7th Ave. E., West Fargo, 701-433-5360 or www.wfparks.org • Symphonia Concert. 7:30 p.m., Centrum, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-4515 4.25 Wednesday • Children’s Storytime. 10 a.m., Barnes and Noble, 1201 42nd St. S.W., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com 4.26 Thursday • “The Merry Wives of Wahpeton.” 7:30 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct. org • The University Symphony Orchestra Children’s Concert.

Features Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf with narrator Steve Poitras. 7:30 p.m., Hansen Theatre, Roland Dille Center for the Arts, MSUM, Moorhead, 218-477-2271 4.27 Friday • “The Merry Wives of Wahpeton.” 7:30 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct. org • An Ausome Evening. Charity event for the North Dakota Autism Center. Live and silent auctions, fundraising games, dinner, program, and dancing. 5:30 p.m., Ramada Plaza Suites Crystal Ballroom, 1635 42nd St. S., Fargo, 701-277-8844 or www.ndautismcenter.org 4.28 Saturday • Crying Hill Antique Show. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Hartl Ag Building, RRV Fairgrounds, 1805 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-2822200 • Big Boys Toys Expo. 10 a.m., Fargodome, 1800 N. University Dr., Fargo, 701-241-9100 or www.fargodome.com • MS Family Outing. Bring the family for education and fun and meet other families affected by MS. For families with a parent, guardian, or child with MS. 10 a.m.-2 p.m., The Children’s Museum at Yunker Farm, 1201 28th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-2326102 or 612-335-7900 • Children’s Storytime. 11 a.m., Barnes and Noble, 1201 42nd St. S.W., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com • FM Adopt-A-Pet Adoption Days. Visit animals available for adoption. 1-3 p.m., PETCO, 1126 43rd St. S.W., Fargo, 701232-5856 • 4 Luv of Dog Rescue “Meet the Dogs.” Visit dogs available for adoption. 1-3 p.m., PetSmart, 1630 13th Ave. E., West Fargo, 701-205-0190 or www.4luvofdog.org • Garden Party. 1:30-4:30 p.m., Rheault Farm, 2902 25th St. S., Fargo, 701-499-7788 or www.fargoparks.com. See ad on p. 26 • Northern Plains Kodaly Chapter Spring Choral Festival.

7 p.m., Olivet Lutheran Church, 1330 S. University Dr., Fargo, 701-491-2910

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family

• “The Merry Wives of Wahpeton.” 7:30 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www. fmct.org 4.29 Sunday • Crying Hill Antique Show. 9 a.m.5 p.m., Hartl Ag Building, RRV Fairgrounds, 1805 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-282-2200 • Crazy Hair Day. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., The Children’s Museum at Yunker Farm, 1201 28th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-232-6102 or www.childrensmuseum-yunker.org • Red River Dance Recital: Dance Out Loud. 1: 30 p.m. & 4 p.m., Davies High School Auditorium, 7150 25th St. S., Fargo, 701-280-0004 • “The Merry Wives of Wahpeton.” 2 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www. fmct.org • Symphonic Band Concert. 4 p.m., Memorial Auditorium, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-4515

MAY 2012 EVENTS 5.1 Tuesday • May Day. Bring one friend free with

each paid admission. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., The Children’s Museum at Yunker Farm, 1201 28th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-232-6102 or www.childrensmuseum-yunker.org • Boulger Funeral Home Pre-planning Seminar. Learn about estate planning and living wills, health care decisions, and other pre-planning steps. 4 p.m. & 7 p.m., Ramada Plaza Suites, 1635 42nd St. S., Fargo. Call 701-237-6441 or email info@boulgerfuneralhome.com to register. See ad on p. 33 5.2 Wednesday • FirstLink’s Annual Breakfast. This year’s focus is on FirstLink’s suicide support services. RSVP required by Apr. 23. Contact Angie at 701-293-6462 or angiew@myfirstlink.org • Children’s Storytime. 10 a.m., Barnes and Noble, 1201 42nd St. S.W., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com 5.4 Friday • Fun Friday at Faith. Pizza, games, activities, a movie, and more. Open to grades 5-8, parental permission required. 6-10 p.m., Faith United Methodist Church, 909 19th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-232-6844

family

5.5 Saturday • Children’s Storytime. 11 a.m., Barnes and Noble, 1201 42nd St. S.W., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com • Walk for Williams. Generate awareness about Williams syndrome and raise funding for programs and initiatives. 11 a.m., Lindenwood Park, 1701 5th St. S., Fargo. Contact Kerri Kava at kkava@forumcomm.com or visit www.williams-syndrome.org • Kite Day. 12:30-3 p.m., Ed Clapp Park, 2801 32nd Ave. S., Fargo, 701-4996060 or www.fargoparks.com • 4 Luv of Dog Rescue “Meet the Dogs.” Visit dogs available for adoption.

1-3 p.m., PetSmart, 1630 13th Ave. E., West Fargo, 701-205-0190 or www.4luvofdog.org • Commencement Concert. 3 p.m., Memorial Auditorium, Concordia College, Moorhead, 218-299-4515 • Spring Gala: Hang on to Your Hats!

Silent auction of art, wine tasting, food, music, and dancing. 7 p.m., Plains Art Museum, 704 1st Ave. N., Fargo, 701232-3821 or www.plainsart.org. See ad on p. 29

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April/May 2012 27

5.6 Sunday • 4 Luv of Dog Rescue “Meet the Dogs.” Visit dogs available for adoption. 1-3 p.m., PetSmart, 1630 13th Ave. E., West Fargo, 701-205-0190 or www.4luvofdog.org • Jennifer Sands: A Story of Hope. Community event featuring Jennifer Sands, Christian speaker, author, and 9/11 widow.

2-3 p.m., Hope Lutheran Church South Campus, 3636 25th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6629 5.8 Tuesday • Community Block Party. 5:30-8 p.m., Madison Park, 3010 11th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-499-7788 or www.fargoparks.com • FM Adopt-A-Pet Adoption Days. Visit animals available for

adoption. 6-8 p.m., PETCO, 1126 43rd St. S.W., Fargo, 701232-5856 5.9 Wednesday • Children’s Storytime. 10 a.m., Barnes and Noble, 1201 42nd St. S.W., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com 5.12 Saturday • Pepsi Outdoor Archery Challenge. Forest River Road, 76th Ave. S. & Red River, Fargo. Call 701-499-6060 or visit www. fargoparks.com for more information • Walk MS. Check in at 8 a.m., walk begins at 10 a.m., Scheels Arena, 5225 31st Ave. S., Fargo, 800-582-5296 or www. myMSwalk.org • Bruins Bargain Bonanza Rummage Sale. 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Jefferson Elementary School, 1701 4th Ave. S., Fargo, 701-799-9378 • Mother’s Day Women’s Expo & Fashion Show. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Fargo Civic Center, 207 4th St. N., Fargo, 701-241-1480 • Children’s Storytime. 11 a.m., Barnes and Noble, 1201 42nd St. S.W., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com 5.13 Sunday • Pepsi Outdoor Archery Challenge. Forest River Road, 76th Ave. S. & Red River, Fargo. Call 701-499-6060 or visit www. fargoparks.com for more information • Mother’s Day Women’s Expo & Fashion Show. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Fargo Civic Center, 207 4th St. N., Fargo, 701-241-1480 • Mother’s Day at the Zoo. Free admission for moms. 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Red River Zoo, 4255 23rd Ave. S., Fargo, 701-277-9240 or www.redriverzoo.org • Tennis “Free For All.” 1-2:30 p.m., Island Park, 5th Ave. & 7th St. S., Fargo, 701-237-4805 or www.fargoparks.com • Marvelous Mother’s Day. Free admission for moms. 1-5 p.m., The Children’s Museum at Yunker Farm, 1201 28th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-232-6102 or www.childrensmuseum-yunker.org 5.15 Tuesday • Community Block Party. 5:30-8 p.m., Osgood School Park, 5400 44th Ave. S., Fargo, 701-499-7788 or www.fargoparks. com 5.16 Wednesday • Senior Health-ways Conference. Join local healthcare professionals, Senior Connections, AARP, and the Arthritis Foundation for an educational seminar on arthritis and ways to manage arthritis. 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Hjemkomst Center, 202 1st Ave. N., Moorhead, 800-333-1380 • Children’s Storytime. 10 a.m., Barnes and Noble, 1201 42nd St. S.W., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com 5.17 Thursday • Fargo Marathon Events. Swanson Health Products & Fitness Expo, 1/2-Mile and 1-Mile Youth Runs. Email director@ fargomarathon.com or visit www.fargomarathon.com for more information • Syttende Mai Pølsefest. Join us for a hot dog lunch in recognition of Norway’s Constitution Day. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Hjemkomst Center, 202 1st Ave. N., Moorhead, 218-299-5511 or www.hcscconline.org • Nature Adventure. 6-8:30 p.m., Lindenwood Rotary Shelter, 1701 5th St. S., Fargo, 701-499-7788 or www.fargoparks.com • “Bugsy Malone Senior.” 7:30 p.m., The Stage at Island Park,

28 April/May 2012

villagefamilymag.org

family

333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct.org 5.18 Friday • Fargo Marathon Events. Swanson Health Products & Fitness Expo, Carino’s Pasta Feed, Freddy’s Lefse Feed, 5k Run/Walk. Email director@fargomarathon.com or visit www.fargomarathon.com for more information • Plant It 4 the Planet. 9:30-11:30 a.m., Lindenwood, 1701 5th St. S., Fargo, 701-499-6060 or www.fargoparks.com • Bonnie Haney Dance Recital: Gotta Dance. 7 p.m., Festival Concert Hall, NDSU, Fargo, 218-236-9900, 701-2329900 or www.bonniehaneydance.com • “Bugsy Malone Senior.” 7:30 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct. org 5.19 Saturday • Fargo Marathon Events. 10k Run/ Walk, Half and Full Marathon. Email director@fargomarathon.com or visit www.fargomarathon.com for more information • Fargo Birding Festival. 7 a.m.-noon, Forest River Road, 76th Ave. S. & Red

River, Fargo, 701-499-6060 or www. fargoparks.com • Children’s Storytime. 11 a.m., Barnes and Noble, 1201 42nd St. S.W., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com • Bonnie Haney Dance Recital: Gotta Dance. 12:30 p.m., Festival Concert Hall, NDSU, Fargo, 218-236-9900, 701232-9900 or www.bonniehaneydance. com • 4 Luv of Dog Rescue “Meet the Dogs.” Visit dogs available for adoption.

1-3 p.m., PetSmart, 1630 13th Ave. E., West Fargo, 701-205-0190 or www.4luvofdog.org • “Bugsy Malone Senior.” 7:30 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct. org 5.20 Sunday • “Bugsy Malone Senior.” 2 p.m., The Stage at Island Park, 333 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-6778 or www.fmct.org • Bike and Kite Day. Bring your own kite to fly and bike to participate in the Bike Rodeo. 2-4 p.m., Rendezvous Park, 1055 32nd Ave. W., West Fargo, 701433-5360 or www.wfparks.org • “Gloria”—A Concert of Gloria

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Settings. The Fargo-Moorhead Chamber Chorale performs its spring concert. 3 p.m., Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 4000 28th St. S., Moorhead, 701-491-2910 • Summer Grind. Registration at 5:30 p.m., event starts at 6 p.m., Dike West, 310 4th St. S., Fargo, 701-499-7788 or www.fargoparks.com 5.21 Monday • Hot Dog Walk. 5-7 p.m., Yunker Farm Dog Park, 1257 28th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-499-6060 or www.fargoparks.com 5.22 Tuesday • Reforest the Red. 4-7 p.m., Lindenwood, 1701 5th St. S., Fargo, 701-499-7788 or www.fargoparks.com • Community Block Party. 5:30-8 p.m., Jefferson Park, 315 16th St. S., Fargo, 701-499-7788 or www.fargoparks.com • FM Adopt-A-Pet Adoption Days. Visit animals available for adoption. 6-8 p.m., PETCO, 1126 43rd St. S.W., Fargo, 701-232-5856 5.23 Wednesday • Children’s Storytime. 10 a.m., Barnes and Noble, 1201 42nd St. S.W., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com

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April/May 2012 29

5.25 Friday • FM RedHawks vs. Sioux Falls Pheasants. 7:02 p.m., Newman Outdoor Field, 1515 15th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-235-6161 or www. fmredhawks.com 5.26 Saturday • Bonanzaville Season Opening.

10 a.m.-8 p.m.,1351 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-282-2822 or www. bonanzaville.com • Children’s Storytime. 11 a.m., Barnes and Noble, 1201 42nd St. S.W., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com • FM RedHawks vs. Sioux Falls Pheasants. 6 p.m., Newman Outdoor Field, 1515 15th Ave. N., Fargo, 701235-6161 or www.fmredhawks.com 5.27 Sunday • Bonanzaville Season Opening. Noon5 p.m., 1351 W. Main Ave., West Fargo, 701-282-2822 or www.bonanzaville.com • FM RedHawks vs. Sioux Falls Pheasants. 1 p.m., Newman Outdoor Field, 1515 15th Ave. N., Fargo, 701235-6161 or www.fmredhawks.com

Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch

5.28 Monday • FM RedHawks vs. Wichita Wingnuts.

6 p.m., Newman Outdoor Field, 1515 15th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-235-6161 or www.fmredhawks.com 5.29 Tuesday • FM RedHawks vs. Wichita Wingnuts.

11 a.m., Newman Outdoor Field, 1515 15th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-235-6161 or www.fmredhawks.com • Community Block Party. 5:30-8 p.m., Bennett Park, 1900 58th Ave. S., Fargo, 701-499-7788 or www.fargoparks.com 5.30 Wednesday • Children’s Storytime. 10 a.m., Barnes and Noble, 1201 42nd St. S.W., Fargo, 701-281-1002 or www.bn.com • FM RedHawks vs. Wichita Wingnuts.

7:02 p.m., Newman Outdoor Field, 1515 15th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-235-6161 or www.fmredhawks.com 5.31 Thursday • 4 Luv of Dog Rescue “Meet the Dogs.” Visit dogs available for adoption.

6-8 p.m., PetSmart, 1630 13th Ave. E., West Fargo, 701-205-0190 or www.4luvofdog.org

PUBLIC LIBRARIES Call or visit the library for more information. Pre-registration may be required.

Fargo Public Main Library 102 3rd St. N., Fargo, 701-241-1492, 701-241-1495 or www.fargolibrary.org • Baby Rhyme Time. Lapsit storytime for babies, birth-18 mos. Apr. 5 & 19, May 3 & 17, 6:30 p.m.

• Pajama Jamboree Family Storytime.

Kids are encouraged to wear their PJ’s.

Apr. 9 & May 14, 6:30 p.m.

• Flicker Tale Readers Book Club.

Grades 2-4. Pre-registration required.

Apr. 10, 4 p.m.

• Fargo Force Visits the Library. Hear stories and meet Fargo Force players.

Apr. 10, 6:30 p.m.

• Teen Resumes & Job Applications.

Workshop to help teens with applying for summer jobs. Pre-registration required. Apr. 12, 4 p.m.

• Titanic Timewarp. Learn about the Titanic, Morse code, icebergs, and more. Grades 2-6. Pre-registration required. Apr. 14, 2 p.m.

Celebrating 60 years of helping children and families succeed in the name of Christ

TM

10th annual

Pigs ‘n a Blanket

Check out our exciting classes for one and two year olds!

dinner and quilt auction

Saturday, Sept. 22

Bring your toddler and learn, grow and play together with other families.

Venue to be announced.

Quilt preview: 2-4 p.m.

Dinner (buffet-style): 4-6 p.m.

Cost: $7/person; $15 families of 3+

Live Music by Cat Sank Live auction: 5:30 p.m.

Trio: 4 - 5:30 p.m.

We need quilts for the live auction (deadline Sept. 1); and the Ranch’s first-ever Quilters Competition (deadline Aug. 15, these quilts are also for auction).

For details call Carla at 701.364.0264 or email c.isom@dakotaranch.org.

Auction details also available at www.dakotaranch.org.

30 April/May 2012

Look for the 2012 Winter/Spring Parenting Press featuring our spring ECFE classes.

218-284-3400 https://communityed.moorhead.k12.mn.us A Community Education Program of the Moorhead Area Public Schools

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• Storytime for Toddlers & Preschoolers. Apr. 21 & May 19, 10 a.m.

• Paws for Reading. Emerging readers can sign up to read to a therapy pet.

Pre-registration required. Apr. 21 & May 19, 1-3 p.m.

• Early Literacy Workshop. Learn the six pre-reading skills necessary for language development. For parents and caregivers of young children. Preregistration required. Apr. 23, 6:30 p.m.

• Music & Mayhem: Toddler Dance Party. For kids, ages birth-6, and their parents. Apr. 26, 10 a.m.

• Arbor Day Tree Planting. Learn the proper way to plant and care for trees, and plant flowering trees at the library. All ages invited. Pre-registration required. Apr. 28, 10 a.m.-noon • Crafty Teens. Pre-registration required.

May 3, 4 p.m.

Dr. James Carlson Library 2801 32nd Ave. S., Fargo, 701-476-4040 or www.fargolibrary.org • Baby Rhyme Time. Lapsit storytime for babies, birth-18 mos. Apr. 5 & 19, May 3 & 17, 10 a.m.

• Pajama Jamboree Family Storytime.

Kids are encouraged to wear their PJs. Apr. 12 & May 10, 6:30 p.m.

• Free Friday Movies. Apr. 13 & May 11, 1 p.m.

• Storytime for Toddlers & Preschoolers. Apr. 14 & May 12, 10 a.m.

• Crafts for Adults. Pre-registration required. Apr. 14 & May 12, 2 p.m.

• Magic Tree House Book Club. Preregistration required. Apr. 15 & May 20, 2 p.m.

• Teen Resumes & Job Applications.

Workshop to help teens with applying for summer jobs. Pre-registration required. Apr. 17, 4 p.m.

• Music & Mayhem: Toddler Dance Party. For kids, ages birth-6, and their parents. Apr. 25, 10 a.m.

• Early Literacy Workshop. Learn the six pre-reading skills necessary for language development. For parents and caregivers of young children. Preregistration required. Apr. 30, 6:30 p.m.

• Crafty Teens. Pre-registration required.

May 1, 4 p.m.

Northport Branch 2714 N. Broadway, Fargo, 701-476-4026 or www.fargolibrary.org

• Storytime for Toddlers & Preschoolers. Apr. 7 & May 5, 10 a.m.

West Fargo Public Library 109 3rd St. E., West Fargo, 701-4335460 or www.westfargolibrary.org • Children’s Storytime. Tuesdays, 10 a.m. & 1:30 p.m., Thursdays, 6:30 p.m.

• Knitty Giddy. Adult group, bring your own supplies. Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m.

• Ham Radio Group. All adults welcome, children must attend with an adult.

Wednesdays, 7 p.m.

• Friday Morning Movies. For preschoolers and younger children and their caretakers. Daycares welcome, please call ahead with number attending. Fridays, 10:30 a.m.

• Genealogy. A staff genealogist will be available for information on how to start your search. Saturdays, noon-4 p.m.

• New Movie Release Showing. Apr. 14 & 21, May 12 & 26, 2 p.m.

• Friends of the Library Used Book Sale. Books, movies, encyclopedia set, priced to sell. Apr. 14, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. & Apr. 15, 1-4 p.m.

• Gaming at the Library. Mario Kart Racing and Kinect Sports. Apr. 22, May 6 & 20, 2-4 p.m.

• Curious George Storytime. Apr. 26, 6:30 p.m.

• Arthur Storytime. May 24, 6:30 p.m.

• Computer Classes. Pre-registration required. Call for class descriptions, dates, and times Moorhead Public Library 118 5th St. S., Moorhead, 218-233-7594 or www.larl.org • Scrabble Night. For beginners and experienced players. Mondays, 6:30 p.m.

• Origami Club. All ages and experience levels. Apr. 2 & May 7, 6:30 p.m.

• Teen Computer Night. Tuesdays, 4 p.m.

• Chess Night. For beginners and experienced players. Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m.

• Storytime. Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. & Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.

• Craft Time. Tuesdays following Storytime • Vaudeville in Minnesota. Michael Callahan will showcase the history of the vaudeville theatrical genre in Minnesota, including a magic routine.

Apr. 4, 10 a.m.

• Wii Wednesday. Apr. 4 & May 2, 6-8 p.m.

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• Baby Bounce Storytime. For infants and toddlers and their caretakers.

Thursdays, 10 a.m.

• eReader Help Night. Apr. 5 & May 3, 7-8 p.m., Apr. 21 & May 19, 2-3 p.m.

• Martial Arts Magnets. A “Kick It Up, Read” program. Apr. 6, 2 p.m.

• Special Storytime with Storyteller Konrad Czynski. Apr. 10, 6:30 p.m.

• Lego Club. Apr. 12 & May 10, 6 p.m., Apr. 28 & May 26, 2 p.m.

• Book Talk with Lin Enger. Local author Lin Enger will discuss the writing and publishing process. Apr. 12, 7 p.m.

• Waste Transformation Art Exhibit.

Original works of art created from materials that would otherwise be thrown away. Drop off Apr. 14 & 15, judging Apr. 16, show Apr. 17-22 • Bruce Flaig, Nature Photographer.

Flaig shares images from his collection and tips on how to capture the perfect outdoor shot. Apr. 17, 7 p.m.

• The Tastes and Sounds of the Civil War. Listen to stories, hear war songs, and sample staple food of the marching armies. Apr. 24, 10 a.m.

• Goodbye Clutter! Tips on de-cluttering and simplifying your space from an organizing specialist. Apr. 28, 10 a.m.

• Saturday Movie. Call for titles. Apr. 28 & May 26, 2 p.m.

• Celebration of Minnesota Women Poets. Listen to poems by Minnesota poets spanning more than 150 years.

Apr. 29, 2 p.m.

• Kevin Strauss, Nature Storyteller.

Strauss shares environmental stories.

May 1, 10 a.m.

• eReader Demo Night. Try out the most popular eReader devices. May 3, 7-8 p.m.

• Salsabrosa: Latin Dance Music.

Enjoy an outdoor concert led by Latin Grammy-nominated pianist and vocalist Viviana Pintado and Cuban conga player Frank Rivery. May 5, 4 p.m.

• Ojibwe History & Culture. An interactive program on Ojibwe history and culture presented by Dr. Anton Treuer. May 8, 7 p.m.

• Vegetarianism 101. Members from FMVeg will speak about vegetarianism and share recipes. May 9, 7 p.m.

• Minnesota Crime Wave. May 10, 7 p.m.

• Asian Block Printing. A “Kick It Up, Read” program. May 12, 2 p.m.

• Car Seat Safety: Kids Can Live With It. May 14, 6:30 p.m.

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April/May 2012 31

Moorhead Public Library (cont.)

• Book Clubs. Call for information • Computer Classes. Call for class descriptions, dates, and times

CLASSES Call for information. Pre-registration may be required.

The Children’s Museum at Yunker Farm 1201 28th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-232-6102 or www.childrensmuseum-yunker.org • Super Science Saturdays • Yunkie Club Early Childhood Family Education Probstfield Center for Education, 2410 14th St. S, Moorhead, 218-284-3400 or https://communityed.moorhead.k12. mn.us • Baby Connection (Birth-12 mos) • Cooking with Kids (2 yrs-kindergarten entry) • Family Fun (Birth-kindergarten entry) • Family Fun Make & Take (Birthkindergarten entry) • The Great Outdoors (Birthkindergarten entry) • Game Night (4 yrs-kindergarten entry) • Gym Dads (Birth-kindergarten entry)

Proof Stamp

Date: ____

OK__ Changes__

• Happy Campers (Birth-kindergarten entry) • Jumpin’ in the Gym (Birthkindergarten entry) • Make It, Take It (Birth-kindergarten entry) • Monday Fun-day (Birth-kindergarten entry) • Ones & Twos (12-36 mos) • Storybook Science (Birth-kindergarten entry) • Terrific Twos (24-36 mos) • Under the Sea (2 yrs-kindergarten entry) • What’s the Weather? (Birthkindergarten entry) • Wonderful, Wobbly Ones (12-24 mos) Essentia Health OB Education 3000 32nd Ave. S., Fargo, 701-364-8100 or www.essentiahealth.org • Basic Training for New Dads • Birthing Center Tour • Car Seat Safety • Developing the Art of Breastfeeding • Great Expectations • Happiest Baby on the Block • Lamaze • Mom’s Helpers • Tender Transitions

Signature________________ Become a

Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA)

• Outstanding opportunities in the healthcare industry • Designed for those entering a nursing career or working in a long-term care facility • New classes begin every 6 weeks

1305 19th Avenue North

ndscs.edu/fargo

701-231-6900

1432August/September 2011 April/May 2012

F/M Communiversity 218-299-3438 or www.fmcommuniversity. org Fargo Park District 701-499-7788 or www.fargoparks.com • Accelerated Artists • Adult/AED CPR • Archery • Artmania • Beginning Fly Fishing 101 • Birding 101 • How to Fish the Red River • Infant & Child CPR • Life Guard Certification • Life Guard Challenge • Mother’s Day Dandy • Penny & Pals • Water Safety Instructor Course Fraser, Ltd. 2902 University Dr. S., Fargo, 701-2323301 or www.fraserltd.org • Adult CPR/First Aid • Infant & Child CPR/First Aid Healing Arts Chiropractic 3240 15th St. S., Fargo, 701-451-9070 or info@healingartschiropractic.com • How to Stay Young the First 100 Years

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The Home Depot 4700 17th Ave. S.W., Fargo, 701-2822078 • Kids Workshop Hospice of the Red River Valley 1701 38th St. S., Fargo, 701-356-1500 or www.hrrv.org • Youth Journeys Lowes 5001 13th Ave. S., Fargo, 701-433-2160 • Build & Grow Clinics Moorhead Community Education 218-284-3400 or https://communityed. moorhead.k12.us Plains Art Museum 704 1st Ave. N., Fargo, 701-232-3821 or www.plainsart.org • Adult & Youth Art Experiences • Kid Quest Parenting Resource Center 701-241-5700 or www.ag.ndsu.edu/ casscountyextension/home-and-family.

Visit website for classes offered • Bright Beginnings • The Nurtured Heart Approach Red River Zoo 4255 23rd Ave. S., Fargo, 701-277-9240 or www.redriverzoo.org • Pint-size Explorers • ZooVentures Sanford Health Community Education 1711 S. University Dr., Fargo, 701234-5570, 877-234-4240 or www. sanfordhealth.org • Baby Signs • Better Choices, Better Health Workshop • Breastfeeding Beginnings • Caring for Your Newborn • Car Seat 101 • Family & Friends—CPR • Family & Friends—Adult CPR • Heartsaver CPR for Day Care Providers • Infant Massage • Lamaze • Our Family is Having a Baby!

• Weight Loss Management Informational Seminar (701-234-4111) • Weight Loss Surgery Informational Seminar • Your Labor Experience—What to Expect

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Sanford Health embrace Education 701-234-7463 or embrace@ sanfordhealth.org • Fatigue with a Cancer Diagnosis • Caregiver Support

Fargo Air Museum 1609 19th Ave. N., Fargo, 701-293-8043 or www.fargoairmuseum.org

U of M Regional Extension 218-236-2005 • Parents Forever

Historical & Cultural Society of Clay County Hjemkomst Center, 202 1st Ave. N., Moorhead, 218-299-5511 or www. hcscconline.org • The Boom: 1945-1960 in Clay County • Seeds of Victory! See ad on p. 27 • The BIG Art Show presented by Fargo-Moorhead Visual Artists.

Begins Apr. 9

The Village Financial Resource Center 1201 25th St. S., Fargo, 701-235-3328 or www.HelpWithMoney.org • Bankruptcy Education • Homebuyer Education • Tenant Education

MUSEUMS & EXHIBITS Call for additional information.

Concordia College Cyrus M. Running Gallery 901 8th St. S., Moorhead, 218-299-4623 • Senior Art Exhibition. Ends May 6

Gallery 4, Ltd. 114 Broadway, Fargo, 701-237-6867 or www.gallery4fargo.com

MSUM Art Gallery Roland Dille Center for the Arts, MSUM, 1104 7th Ave. S., Moorhead, 218-4772284 or www.mnstate.edu/art/Gallery. shtml MSUM Planetarium Bridges Hall, MSUM, Moorhead, 218477-2920 • Galileo: The Power of the Telescopes.

Ends May 21

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Plains Art Museum 704 1st Ave. N., Fargo, 701-232-3821 or www.plainsart.org • Jubileum! Screen Prints by Amy Jo Hendrickson Flattum • Birch Bark, Clay, Pixels, Paint: New Work in the Museum Collection. Ends Apr. 15 • Art on the Plains XI. Ends May 20 The Rourke Art Gallery & Museum Museum: 521 Main Ave., Moorhead, Gallery: 523 S. 4th St., Moorhead, 218236-8861 or www.therourke.org • Return to Clonmacnoise. Ends Apr. 8 • Charles Thysell: Past & Present: Paintings and Drawings from 20012011. Ends Apr. 22 The Spirit Room Art Gallery 111 Broadway, Fargo, 701-237-0230 or www.spiritroom.net • Epilepsy Foundation Creative Arts Program Showcase. Apr. 1-30

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April/May 2012 33

YOUR FAMILY z consumer

When it Pays to Hire a Pro:

Five Things Best Done by a Professional

By Janelle Brandon

Some things in life are best left to the professionals. Though it may be tempting to save a few bucks by doing a project without professional input, there are at least five situations where you should consider using the experienced skillset of those in business to serve you.

Retirement Planning

Retirement planning is a strategy for setting aside money to be spent during retirement. This may include an individual retirement account (IRA) along with an employer/employee contribution plan often called a 401(k) or 403(b). Those with some tolerance for risk may play the stock market or invest in precious metals, real estate, or commodities to increase their nest egg for the golden years.

Ryan Berg, a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) with Ranstrom Financial Planning Services in Fargo (securities offered through Harbour Investments, Inc.), urges individuals to start planning for retirement as soon as they begin working. “As life expectancies continue to rise, one’s retirement years may end up being 30 or more years,” says Berg. “It is very important to plan for these years so that one does not outlive their money. A financial planner can help prepare for both the years leading up to retirement and the retirement years themselves.”

34 April/May 2012

Berg stresses that coordinating an individual’s or couple’s income needs throughout their retirement, with their sources of income, in most cases requires the help of a professional. It is important to manage retirement assets with two objectives in mind: obtaining a competitive return and reducing risk.

Berg has observed several common scenarios where individuals and couples haven’t planned for their retirement, which netted less than favorable results. The down economy and stock market trends haven’t aided these individuals.

“Retirees who have not managed their income distributions properly or have poorly managed their retirement assets will suffer,” says Berg. “Without fail, we gain a large number of clients after prolonged periods of stock market downturns and volatility. Because of losses sustained in their portfolios over those time periods, they have significantly pushed back the timetable for their retirement years.”

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According to Berg, those who self-manage their portfolios often let their emotions affect their financial decisions. They may limit the number of asset classes in their portfolios and often make poor buying and selling choices which affect their long-term return.

Ruth Solie’s experience with retirement living is relatively new. She recently retired from a successful career serving in the library setting. She was the director of the Detroit Lakes Public Library for ten years, and then became the executive director of Northern Lights Library Network, where she served for an additional 17 years. At Northern Lights, she oversaw the cooperative efforts to bring library support and service to over 200 public, school, and special libraries in northwest and west central Minnesota.

“I’ve found that if I need help with retirement living questions, the answers are there,” shares Solie. She recommends people educate themselves through resources available from state and federal programs and retirement agencies like AARP. It’s important to learn the vocabulary of retirement planning and know what questions to ask a professional.

Retirement living for Solie is going smoothly, but she recognizes that her generation may be the last with assurances about retirement income and health care coverage.

“I suspect that the next generation to retire may have more difficulty,” adds Solie. “I would encourage people to plan for their retirement to help ensure a good retirement when the time comes.”

Financial planning and sound money management during your working years will make the leisurely days of retirement that much more enjoyable.

Retirement Planning Tips 1. Identify retirement resources in your community or at your public library to gain knowledge about retirement planning.

2. Hire an experienced professional with established, recognized credentials and know their fees.

3. Listen and weigh the advice of the financial planner.

Travel

If you’re planning a vacation for a large number of people or to a faraway destination, consider enlisting the help of a travel agent.

“Your time is valuable. Save time and use a travel professional!” says Bettie Kensmoe, a travel agent with Travel Leaders of Fargo. “Travel agents have firsthand knowledge

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about almost every destination worldwide and answer your questions directly. You have an advocate in case something goes wrong with your trip.”

Katie Rahr, Director of Special Events for Travel Leaders once had a client decide to book a family reunion cruise out of Fort Lauderdale online, instead of through a travel agency.

“The family flew from all over to meet up in Florida,” recalls Rahr. “They did not have their flights matched with the times of the cruise, and the hotel they confirmed was a long drive from the port.” These events caused the family undue stress and made for a bad start to the trip. The cruise they chose didn’t meet their entertainment expectations either.

Sharon Rostad of Fargo recently returned from a trip to Mexico in which she enlisted the help of a travel agency. This isn’t the first time she’s used professional travel assistance when booking a big vacation. “Many times the travel agent has been to the destination themselves so you have their personal recommendations,” says Rostad. She believes that nowadays, people who do not have strong computer skills are at a disadvantage when planning a trip, so it’s a good idea to work with a travel agent. “I’d recommend working with an agent that specializes in your travel destination, and don’t forget to do your own research on the destination,” says Rostad.

Steps to Maximize your Big Vacation 1. Establish an approximate budget.

2. Decide if you have specific or flexible dates for travel.

3. Be open to your travel agent’s suggestions.

Home Inspection Before Purchase

A comprehensive visual inspection of the structure and examinations of the heating and cooling systems, the plumbing, and the electrical systems are all part of a qualified home inspection. A professional home inspector has a standard of practice. These standards are used to identify items and areas that need to be properly inspected prior to the purchase.

“As an inspector, we look at things differently,” says Dean Foell, professional home inspector and owner of Tri-State Inspection. “We are trained on what to look for and we draw on our inspection experiences. The cost and joy of buying a home can be offset when you move in and find out there is an expensive repair right away.”

Foell says that at the end of an inspection, the buyer is educated on the workings of the home and any defects that could alter the purchase. Foell recalls a true story of a buyer that decided not to have a home inspection on a five-year-old twin home. “They said nothing could be wrong because the home looked great,” remembers Foell. “I inspected the attached home. During the roof inspection, I noticed the shingles were defective.” The cost and aggravation of having the shingles replaced could have been prevented with a professional inspection.

Coldwell Banker real estate agent Janene Paulson shares Foell’s sentiment. “The purchase of a home can be a financial and emotional decision,” says Paulson. “Today’s knowledgeable buyer considers style, location, cost, market, and property condition, but also wants a house that ‘feels like home.’”

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April/May 2012 35

Signature________________ Once a buyer finds the right home, Paulson says it’s critical he or she acquire as much information from as many sources as possible before making an investment. Hiring a home inspector is one way to gather information. “Home inspections are stressful. Buyers who already have an emotional attachment to the home don’t want to find anything wrong... a good reason for hiring a third party to inspect the home,” adds Paulson.

Homebuyers should realize that every home on the market will likely generate a few areas of concern following a home inspection. Most will be solved with simple fixes, some can be resolved through bargaining, and others may be beyond the comfort zone of the buyer, in which case, they should be prepared to walk away from the purchase. Hiring a professional home inspector is not a warranty against future problems, but it is definitely a wise decision when making such an enormous investment.

Home Inspection Tips 1. Choose a professional who has inspected the type of property you’re seeking to purchase.

2. Attend the home inspection, if possible.

3. Stay neutral and be willing to cancel the home purchase if an inspection uncovers a major defect.

Hairstylist/Barber Services

“Each person has a different head shape, facial features, personality, and other qualities that are unique to them,” says Brendan LaFrance, barber and owner of Skill Cutz Barber Shop (locations in Fargo and Crookston, Minn.). “A skilled professional barber or stylist can utilize a person’s haircut or style to bring out their good features.”

LaFrance says that people who try to cut their own hair often fail miserably. “Some realize their mistake. Some don’t realize it and walk around looking ridiculous.” He says that your hair is an extension of yourself. A skilled professional can make your hairstyle work for you and make all the small details just right.

“My barber has been cutting my hair for five years,” adds LaFrance.

“He knows my head, my hair, and what is going to look good on me. Your hair is the start and end of a well put together look.”

Lea Pea, a professional stylist with Joni Salon and Spa in Moorhead, notes that a licensed cosmetologist has worked on thousands of people by the time they provide services in a salon. They also have far more experience and insight on tailoring a style suitable for your needs, keeping in mind current trends and classic looks.

A client of Lea Pea’s once decided that professional colors were too expensive to get six times a year. The cost was roughly $600 annually. The client took it upon herself to do her own color.

“The next thing I know she’s in my chair crying with orange, red, and brown all over her head,” recalls Pea. “She had used a box dye many use which has a chemical called henna in it that 36 April/May 2012

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reacts severely with lightener, which she had also used. Altogether, the expense of her doing a $10 box color became a $400 tab in just two months of color recovery. Her hair was never the same.”

Amanda Salber, a court reporter for Clay County, recalled a time when she received an at-home hair treatment. “My mom permed my hair and we missed one of the directions and forgot to cover it, and the next day my hair was literally falling off,” recalls Salber. “I was more than just a little mortified.” Salber now gets her hair done professionally and is lucky to have several members in her family that are salon professionals.

Beth Ball, a stay-at-home mother of two in West Fargo, proudly pays over $100 for a haircut and color twice a year due to a mishap in college when she was living in Eugene, Oregon. “My mom tried one of those highlighting things on me and it came out looking like a bird pooped on my head,” remembers Ball.

“Never again.” op Three Reasons to Use T Professional Hair Services 1. Safety. Synthetic chemicals and dyes for treating and coloring hair may be dangerous when used improperly, causing damage to hair or chemical burns to the skin and scalp.

2. Perspective. It’s impossible to see all sides of your hair. A professional with the proper perspective and training will keep hair even, giving you better results and a better hairstyle.

3. Style. A professionally created hairstyle is a great form of selfexpression and personality.

Electrical Work

“Hiring a licensed, professional electrician is the best option for completing electrical work in the home,” says Rich Duysen, Moorhead Fire Chief.

Duysen says that overloaded circuits can cause fires when the wiring installed is the wrong size or circuit protection family

is not installed properly to meet the electrical code requirements. “Once a homeowner overloaded a circuit by using one circuit to power multiple space heaters,” recalls Duysen. “He had bypassed the circuit protection, which allowed the wiring to heat up like a toaster element in the attic space.

An attic fire ensued that destroyed the home.”

Licensed electrician Wade Johnson, owner of Wade’s Electrical Service, Inc. in Moorhead, says there are a lot of projects people can do themselves, and maybe should do themselves in order to save money. But electrical work is not one of them. “If you try to do your own electrical work, you might end up causing damage to your body, and your house and property,” warns Johnson. “That is when you are going to wish you had done your electrical work correctly.”

Licensed electricians possess the proper tools and equipment to complete electrical projects safely and efficiently. It can be expensive to invest in this equipment, and the usefulness of the tools goes away after an electrical project is complete.

Additionally, licensed electricians are knowledgeable in regard to local codes and regulations within your community. The electrician has a vested interest in abiding by these rules, not only to make sure your home’s electrical system is not in violation, but also to maintain professional licensure. umber One Reason to Hire a N Professional Electrician Safety. Electrical work can be a hazardous job, and the consequences of improper wiring are dangerous— even deadly.

There are plenty of opportunities for the average do-it-yourselfers to save money and time by tackling simple projects on their own. However, it’s important to acknowledge that some things require a certain expertise and should be handled by a professional.

The upfront expense will likely cost you less in the long run.

Janelle Brandon is a wife to Lukas, mom to Dylan (4) and Julia (2), writer, doula, and marketer living in Moorhead. To learn more, visit www. janellebrandon.com

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By Amanda Peterson

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YOUR FAMILY z do-it-together

Y

ou don’t need an excuse to start a new, environmentally healthy habit, but it wouldn’t hurt to use Earth Day, April 22, to kick off increased recycling in your home.

It’s easy to get the entire family involved, one little step at a time, and you’ll find yourselves making a positive impact on our community.

Just ask the Runestads. The Moorhead family started recycling years ago. Today, it’s just old habit for Eric, Anna, and their two children, Ella, eight, and Leo, six, to drop used containers into recycling bags instead of the garbage. Like many families, they recycle all of the city’s curbside materials, such as plastics, glass, aluminum, newspaper, and corrugated cardboard.

But they also take it a few steps further. Used clothing goes to thrift stores or Churches United for the Homeless. Old furniture finds a new home at the YWCA. Paint cans are off to the city’s hazardous waste station. What about non-corrugated cardboard that can’t be recycled in Moorhead? Those go to the grandparents’ house out of town. “Every time we see my parents, we arrive with luggage and a bag of box board recycling,” laughs Anna.

Recycling has become a way of life in the Runestad household, an opportunity to teach Ella and Leo about taking care of their environment. “We recycle to be responsible,” says Anna, “to be caretakers, and because it’s one thing we can actually do that makes a difference in the use of our natural resources.”

Get Started As you likely already know, recycling is part of a larger effort involving the three Rs—reduce, reuse, recycle. (Anyone else singing the Jack Johnson song in their head?) It’s all about being aware of what you consume and finding ways to minimize the waste left behind.

If you haven’t started recycling in your home, call your city for information. Fargo, West Fargo, and Moorhead all offer curbside recycling, picking up your recyclables at the same time they pick up your garbage. By getting a city recycling bin for free or a nominal fee, you can sort out your recycling and simply leave it at the end of your driveway each week. (See sidebar on page 41 for what your city recycles, curbside.) Many items not picked up curbside can still be recycled through city waste departments, drop-off sites, or independent businesses such as Minnkota Recycling.

Carrie Brusven, a business and home eco-consultant in Fargo, cautions against throwing yourself into recycling at full force. “The most important thing is to remember to go slowly,” says Brusven of Color Me Green Eco-Consulting. “If you try to do everything right off the bat, it will get overwhelming and you’ll quit. Set small, attainable goals for yourself and you’ll be much more likely to succeed.”

Say, for example, your family drinks a lot of milk in plastic jugs. Start out your recycling project by simply requesting a city recycling bin and filling it each week with empty milk jugs. As that becomes more common practice, take the next step by filling a recycling bag with tin cans or glass jars. Add one recyclable family

Supplies Needed:    

#1 and #2 plastics, glass, aluminum City recycling bin Your whole family The following ideas to get you started!

product at a time until you no longer even have to think about it.

Set Up a System Families who recycle regularly say a convenient system is key. If you have to haul a soda can through your kitchen, past the dining room, out into the garage, and past your car to toss it into a recycling bin, it’s probably not going to happen. Instead, make recycling as convenient as throwing something away.

The Martin family in Moorhead set up a system near their kitchen to make recycling convenient for all four of them, including children Will, five, and Drew, three. “We put two paper bags by our back door—one for newspapers and the other for everything else,” says mom, Libby. “When it’s recycling week or when it gets full, my husband takes them out to the garage and separates them into their own paper bags according to Moorhead’s regulations. Done and done.”

Brady Brunsvold, recycling manager for Fargo, created a recycling station in his garage to make it easy for his whole family to get involved. “Every type of recyclable material is put into a different container,” he says. “Then, on Saturdays, we go over as a family to the closest drop-site and throw the stuff in the correct dumpster.

It doesn’t take much time and it’s a great opportunity for the family to do something together.”

Think about how your own family works best. Do you need a recycling container in the kitchen? Can you simply set recyclables on the counter until the end of the day and then move them to

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Children’s Books About Recycling

Teach your kids more about recycling with these children’s books: “The Adventures of an Aluminum Can: A Story About Recycling” by Alison Inches “Don't Throw That Away!: A Lift-the-Flap Book about Recycling and Reusing” by Lara Bergen “Garbage and Recycling” by Rosie Harlow “I Can Save the Earth!: One Little Monster Learns to Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle” by Alison Inches “Michael Recycle” by Ellie Bethel and Ellie Patterson “ReMake It!: Recycling Projects from the Stuff You Usually Scrap” by Tiffany Threadgould “The Three R's: Reuse, Reduce, Recycle” by Núria Roca “Trash and Recycling” by Stephanie Turnbull and Christyan Fox “Why Should I Recycle?” by Jen Green and Kyouko Kitazawa

Even if your family has been curbside recycling for years, it’s a good time to assess whether there’s anything else you can do. the garage? Do you have space in a pantry or under the sink?

Try a few different options and see what works for your family.

Involve the WHOLE Family Even very young children can get involved in recycling. Babies can flip through board books about recycling. (See sidebar above.) Toddlers can carry plastic containers to the recycling bin.

Preschoolers can help separate recyclables and even carry bags of light items to the curb.

Janelle Leiseth, a Moorhead mom of four, works recycling into her children’s daily chores. Their simple system works for their family and instills a sense of responsibility not only to recycle, but to take care of the environment in other ways, too. “Our system is basic,” Leiseth says. “My husband and I wash dishes, empty containers, and set recyclables to the side. At chore time, at least one of the kids gets to take the recyclables to the bins in the garage.

This also sparks creativity as they see a certain container and want to create something out of it, such as a bird feeder or mini-pail.”

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The Martins get sons Will and Drew involved mostly by crushing soda cans. “We don’t go through many of them, but we do save them in a box, and when it’s full we let the boys go to town stomping on them,” she says. “They love it.”

Brusven says kids can participate in the entire process, including labeling the bins. For kids too small to read, have them draw pictures of the recyclables or cut out pictures in a magazine to tape to the bins. “Parents can involve their kids by explaining to them about recycling and having them help sort the items into their designated containers,” says the mom of two.

Make a game to find the most recyclables from items headed to the trash. Check out books on recycling from the library.

Make a fun sign for the recycling station in your garage. “I think it’s important to stress that it doesn’t take much more effort to throw something into the recycling bin than it does to throw it into the garbage,” Brunsvold says. “And by involving kids and families, it makes it a fun activity that really passes the message of conservation to the next generation.”

Do a Little More Even if your family has been curbside recycling for years, it’s a good time to assess whether there’s anything else you can do. Think about other items you use that typically end up in the landfill. Community drop-sites can take the magazines, office paper, phone books, plastic grocery bags, and other products that can’t be recycled curbside. Try setting up a station in your garage for those materials and let your kids help with the sorting.

The Runestads recycle vegetable scraps by composting.

Ella and Leo help scrape leftovers into the compost bucket in the kitchen and then carry it out to the compost bin.

“They’ve been involved in removing newly created soil from the bottom of the compost bin and spreading it in the garden,” Runestad says. “It’s the perfect project for kids.”

The Leiseths keep an eye out for additional opportunities,

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too. Janelle is looking into creating a rainwater collection system for her garden, such as installing a rain barrel.

She also works with her family to reduce their overall use of plastics by using reusable drinking bottles and shopping with reusable bags. It’s all about finding more ways to help out. “Our kids know that our garbage goes to a landfill and should that landfill get too full, we would need to find another spot to put our garbage,” Leiseth says.

Watch it Become a Habit Making recycling a habit doesn’t happen overnight, but with patience you’ll see changes in the way your family uses resources. Give yourself

time and patience to make those changes. One day, you’ll see the impact it’s made on your family.

For Anna Runestad, that moment involved an old sock. “The other day Leo had a hole in his sock, so I threw it away,” she said. “He stopped me and said, ‘Don’t throw that away. Grandma can patch it!’” One more item saved from the landfill.

Amanda Peterson is an award-winning writer with a love for the Web, social media, and magazines. She lives in Moorhead with her husband and two children, who haul the recycling to the curb.

What Your City Recycles Curbside

Here’s a list of what can be recycled curbside in Fargo, Moorhead, and West Fargo. Six drop-sites are also located throughout each community.

Fargo Aluminum, steel, and tin cans Clear and colored glass bottles and jars Corrugated cardboard Newspaper #1 and #2 plastic bottles and jugs For more information, contact Fargo Recycling at (701) 241-1449.

Moorhead Aluminum, steel, and tin cans Clear and colored glass bottles and jars Corrugated cardboard Newspaper #1 and #2 plastic bottles and jugs For more information, contact Moorhead Operations at (218) 299-5347.

West Fargo Aluminum, steel, and tin cans Clear and colored glass bottles and jars Newspaper (non-glossy only) For more information, contact West Fargo Public Works at (701) 433-5400.

Happy Mother’s Day from the staff at The Village Family Magazine

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YOUR FAMILY z parenting

BOOST VOCABULARY YOUR CHILD'S

Five Strategies to Get Ready to Read!—By Michele Ranard, M.Ed.

W

ho can forget their child’s first word? Was it your name? A pet’s name? Whatever it was, it probably lit up your face with joy. It feels natural to praise our toddlers as they acquire new language skills daily, and a parent’s enthusiasm reinforces a child to speak additional words.

But what about when your toddler isn’t a toddler anymore?

Psychology professor Bob McMurray says unfortunately, parents tend to stop emphasizing language as their kids leave toddlerhood. A preschooler’s vocabulary is a critical predictor of school preparedness and reading comprehension, so it is extra important parents do what they can to boost it.

McMurray’s research reveals an explosion in vocabulary (or “word spurt”) is dependent upon a child learning a mix of words, both easy and not easy, and all at once. Additionally, vocabulary explosions require specifically “more difficult words than easy words.” The professor and other language experts suggest the following to boost your child’s verbal skills.

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Mealtime Magic

Make Believe Pays Off

A child’s vocabulary can be enhanced by our talk at the dinner table.

Engaging your child in pretend play will introduce her to a wider variety of vocabulary words.

Use moments around the table to introduce new words, especially challenging ones since you’ll have your child’s attention in a pleasant setting. What to discuss? In a mealtime study, Diane Beals and her colleagues at the University of Tulsa discovered that three- and four-year-olds who were exposed to uncommon words such as “boxer,” “wriggling,” or “tackle,” scored higher on later standardized tests at age five.

If you are playing restaurant, for example, there are all sorts of unfamiliar words to be integrated into the play—menu, hostess, variety, or beverage. If you are playing spaceship and she wants to land on the moon, vocabulary such as lunar, satellite, or gravity can be incorporated.

Beals says forget about serving up a thesaurus at the table and instead discuss “your day or something cool you saw at the store.” Bringing in new words helps children form connections between words and real-life events.

Literature for Learning Reading your child a story creates magic for both of you and is beneficial to a growing vocabulary, especially when you ask lots of questions during the story, checking for understanding.

If your preschooler does not recognize a word when you quiz her, ask her to study the illustration for clues. Classics like “Where the Wild Things Are” contain new words your child may not otherwise hear or accommodate such as “rumpus” and “gnashed.” Throughout the book, continue to interact with your child, asking open-ended questions such as “What do you suppose will happen next?” and “Why do you suppose Max felt so angry?”

Such interactions with books and novel vocabulary improves the quality of children’s language skills, setting them up for increased success in school.

Guessing Gives Them an Edge Consider a little restraint to challenge your child.

McMurray suggests that instead of automatically doling out definitions for your preschooler when he becomes stumped on a word’s meaning, you should offer clues and allow him to figure it out on his own. If, for example, the word in question is “equestrian,” give hints such as saddle, mane, or stable. It can also be helpful to “tell them what it isn’t.” You could say “not cows, but…”

‘Show & Tell’ at Home Who says “show and tell” is simply for school?

You can easily use this activity to describe and discuss objects to expand your child’s vocabulary outside of school.

You could demonstrate how a hand chopper dices vegetables and explain the appliance’s function and efficiency. You could show your child checks in your checkbook, discussing how these small sheets of paper are used for payments.

‘Show and tell’ captures your child’s attention and provides something to touch and see in order to anchor vocabulary in memory. family

Outside of pretend play, parents can help children better remember the meanings of words by acting them out. Even explaining that shrugging your shoulders means “I don’t know” is helpful.

Is all the drama really necessary? Consider a University of Chicago study which was the first to connect gesture, vocabulary, and school preparedness.

Conducted by Susan Goldin-Meadow, the results indicate children who use more gestures at 14 months have larger vocabularies at 54 months and are better prepared for school.

Goldin-Meadow writes, “Child gesturing could play an indirect role in word learning by eliciting timely speech from parents.” Why? A child pointing to an object like a cup might elicit a response from the parent such as “Yes, that’s a cup!”

Try to incorporate all five of these strategies to boost your child’s growing verbal repertoire today, and help him become a better reader tomorrow.

Michele Ranard has two children, a master’s in counseling, and a blog at hellolovelyinc. blogspot.com.

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Explore Your Charitable Giving Options. www.TheVillageFamily.org

With just a few clicks of your mouse you can discover the benefits of charitable giving.

Step 1: Go to www.TheVillageFamily.org Step 2: Click on “Charitable Gift Planning” in the upper right corner Step 3: Find valuable information about your planned giving options At www.TheVillageFamily.org/giftplanning you will find a complete array of information and tools to plan a gift to The Village. As you begin the journey to determine the best gift to fit your situation, we give you all the tools you will need to make an informed decision.

• Ways to Give and What to Give contain articles that give you firsthand knowledge of the many ways you can satisfy your philanthropic intentions.

• Build Your Gift and Compare Gifts put your knowledge and goals to use to make a plan of action.

• Estate Planning goes over the four key documents needed to have an effective estate plan.

• Want more specific information? Just click to receive a FREE eBrochure on the topic of your choice.

• Once you’ve compiled the information you need, you’re ready to calculate your personal benefits with our online Gift Calculator.

Articles at www.TheVillageFamily.org/giftplanning are monitored daily to provide you with the most up-to-date information available—information you can access 24/7. Remember to stop by often; we have new articles each month!

We appreciate your visits and want to hear from you.

Please call The Village at 701-451-4900 if you have any questions or would like to further discuss gift options that best fit your philanthropic and financial goals.

http://www.thevillagefamily.org/giftplanning

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YOUR FAMILY z food & fun

Ribbon Clothespins Wooden clothespins Ribbon ( 3/8-inch width fits well) Craft glue

Cut strips of ribbon to size and glue onto clothespins. Hang a piece of twine or ribbon along a wall and display photos, postcards, or artwork using decorated clothespins. You could also glue magnets to the back of clothespins and hang artwork on the refrigerator.

Rainbow Crayons Crayons Mini muffin pan Remove paper from crayons (an easy way to do this is to carefully cut down the length of the crayon with a razor or utility knife blade and peel paper away). Break crayons into small pieces less than one inch long. Fill muffin cups with crayon pieces. Preheat oven to 200°F. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until wax is melted. Allow to cool and flip pan over to remove. If crayons are stuck, try putting the pan in the fridge or freezer for an hour.

Oven-baked Scotch Eggs 8 hard-boiled eggs All-purpose flour 1 lb. ground pork sausage 2 cups bread crumbs ½ tsp. dried parsley flakes ½ tsp. thyme 2 raw eggs Salt and pepper to taste Cooking spray or olive oil spritzer

Preheat oven to 350°F. Peel hard-boiled eggs and rinse. Dredge peeled eggs in flour while still slightly wet and set aside. In a bowl, thoroughly mix together the pork sausage, 1 cup bread crumbs, parsley, and thyme. Add in the raw eggs, salt, and pepper, and blend mixture completely. If it seems too moist, add additional bread crumbs. Divide the sausage mixture into eight equal portions.

Coat each egg with the mixture, completely covering the egg, then roll in bread crumbs before placing on a greased jelly roll pan or shallow baking sheet.

Lightly spray the finished Scotch eggs before placing in the oven. Bake for 35-45 minutes, turning the eggs about halfway through the cook time.

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YOUR FAMILY z words & wisdom

My mother drew a distinction between achievement and success. She said that achievement is the knowledge that you have studied and worked hard and done the best that is in you. Success is being praised by others. That is nice, but not as important or satisfying. Always aim for achievement and forget about success.

—Helen Hayes

Treat the Earth well: It was not given to you by your parents, it was loaned to you by your children. We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.

—Native American Proverb

If you want the rainbow, you’ve got to put up with the rain.

—Dolly Parton

The important thing is not to stop questioning.

Curiosity has its own reason for existing.

One cannot help but be in awe when he contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvelous structure of reality. It is enough if one tries merely to comprehend a little of this mystery every day. Never lose a holy curiosity.

—Albert Einstein

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Far away there in the sunshine are my highest aspirations. I may not reach them, but I can look up and see their beauty, believe in them, and try to follow them.

—Louisa May Alcott Walk with the dreamers, the believers, the courageous, the cheerful, the planners, the doers, the successful people with their heads in the clouds and their feet on the ground. Walk with those who have ideals, with zest to help and lift, to create and contribute.

Let their spirit ignite a fire within you to leave this world better than when you found it. Associate with the creative people wherever you find them. Make friends with them, go where they are, talk with them, listen to them, be open and receptive to them, let them inspire you. Catch their attitudes, their way of thinking and living.

—Wilferd A. Peterson

Laughter is the sun that drives winter from the human face.

—Victor Hugo

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Athletic PArtnershiP return to your gAme

Bruce Piatt, MD You’re an everyday competitor. You can’t afford to be sidelined by injury.

It’s time to return to performance.

Our physicians, therapists and certified athletic trainers are part of your team.

They work to manage injuries and get you back to your activities in the least amount of time. And as safely as possible.

For the everyday competitor in all of us.

Call (701) 237-9712 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Piatt.

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