a note from the editor
Dear Readers,
As we celebrate the first anniversary of our publication, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to each of you who has supported, engaged and believed in our mission. We are proud to have spent the past year telling stories and showcasing the incredible people and organizations working tirelessly to make a difference in our communities.
In our fifth issue, we highlight Kidzpacks, a not-for-profit organization ensuring that children in need don’t go hungry. We are also excited to introduce you to the Veterans Assistance Commission of Adams County and the Tri-States Service Foundation, which sheds light on the crucial services provided to veterans and those needing volunteering assistance.
“Parent-Teacher Communication: Building a Strong Partnership” explores ways to foster better relationships between parents and teachers to ensure the best school experience for our children. Education is also at the forefront with “Junior Achievement: The Best Kept Secret in Education,” an insightful look at how this program is shaping young minds for the future.
Finally, we have an article titled “Triglycerides: Why Do They Matter?” It is a vital read for anyone looking to better understand this often-overlooked aspect of heart health.
We are excited about what lies ahead as we look to the future. Thank you for being a part of our journey over the past year. We can’t wait to continue growing together, telling your stories, and making an even bigger impact in the future.
Here’s to many more milestones and meaningful stories! I hope you have an amazing, fun-filled Autumn this year!
Brandy Owens Editor-in-Chief
Quincy Area Family Magazine
P.O. Box 3080 Quincy, IL 62305 connect@qafmagazine.com qafmagazine.com
communityconnections
Not-For-Profit SPOT LIGHT LOCAL
Our Mission: To Provide Quincy Public Schools, Pre-K through 5th grade students readily accessible food options over the weekend and breaks from school.
Sarah Stephens, Executive Director of Horizons Social Services, states there is ample data on the devasting impact food insecurity has on children. According to Feeding America, children facing food insecurity are sick more often and more likely to be hospitalized. They can suffer developmental impairments that limit their physical, intellectual, and emotional development. Children facing food insecurity often do worse in school and struggle with social and behavioral problems as they have less energy to deal with complex social interactions and adapt to environmental stressors. Kidzpacks is here to help.
Kidzpacks provides weekend meals and snacks to children at risk for food insecurity, accounting for approximately 58% of QPS students in Pre-K through 5th grade. Founded in 2018, the redistricting of Quincy Public Schools provided an opportunity for the individual backpack food programs in place at each school the ability to combine into a consolidated program, increasing access to resources, community grants, and
partnerships, thus creating Kidzpacks. KidzPacks was led by volunteer director Jessica Dedert until August 2023, when Kidzpacks came under the umbrella of Horizons Soup Kitchen and Food Pantry. This was a natural fit due to the vast knowledge of procuring and delivering food that Horizon’s staff and volunteers carry out daily. Kidzpack is managed by Eric Thorsen, Director of Food Services for Horizions, who orders food for the program and coordinates the volunteer efforts.
Since the formation of Kidzpacks the program has grown from providing food to 530 students to now over 1,200 students. This reach has been made possible with joint efforts from Horizons Social Services, Quincy Public Schools, volunteers, and donors. Sarah further stated that research has shown positive impacts from weekend backpack food programs. A study completed by The University of Illinois found that there was a significant effect on increasing attendance on the days packs are distributed and that some families were able to go from having low food security to being food secure. Additional studies found that a weekend backpack food program resulted in increased reading and math scores, improved self-esteem, better relationships with faculty and classmates, and increased interest in school.
Sarah shared that volunteers prepare and distribute packs of food, including breakfast, lunch, and snack items, each week during the school year. The food is packed into donated grocery sacks, and volunteers drop the bags off at the six schools Kidzpacks serve on Friday mornings. Individual teachers then discreetly put the packs inside the backpacks of the children who qualify for Kidzpacks resources. This process allows Kidzpacks to overcome the barrier of transportation in providing food to children on the weekends and honors the children’s privacy and anonymity. Sarah also stated that a key feature of the Kidzpacks program is that it provides easily prepared foods that require minimal resources and can be prepared by young children if needed. They tailor the food sent home to ensure any canned items are pop-top; if preparation is needed, it is limited to microwave-safe items only. They further customize the packs for the littlest ones in the program
by providing only ready-to-eat items. In addition to convenience and safety being a priority, Kidzpacks also wants to provide enjoyable choices for children.
Kidzpacks is fully funded by private donations and grants and powered by volunteers. Kidzpacks works diligently to minimize administrative costs and maximize their impact on those they serve.
To donate to Kidzpack, you can visit https:// horizonsquincy.com/kidz-packs/ , or mail a check to KidzPacks at Horizons Social Services at 224 S. 8th Street Quincy, IL 62301. $100 provides a child with food on the weekends for the entire school year! For volunteer opportunities, please email eric@ horizonsquincy.com
Submitted by: Sarah Stephens & Allison Housewright
Museums 101: Tips & Tricks for Navigating the Museum Landscape
Nancy Benz, M.A. | Historian
Think back to the last time you visited a museum. Was it fun? Was it exciting? Was it busy? Was it quiet? Were you alone or in a group? Were you overwhelmed? No matter the size or popularity, museums are major tourist destinations. Over the years, I have visited my share of museums. I’ve been to some that are mind blowing and some that are not so great but interestingly… quirky. You know those podunk “museums’ ‘ along the road or in an unknown small town? Those have been some of the greatest little gems I’ve seen.
However, museums can be very intimidating. Not only can they be large, but sometimes they can have an antiquated feel. A feeling where you don’t want to be too loud or get the “look” for doing something you didn’t know you couldn’t. Trust me, I’ve been there, and it wasn’t fun! Depending on the size and extensiveness of their exhibits, museums can be expensive and crowded. You may find yourself not wanting to miss anything or fail to get your money’s worth and, therefore, you walk around endlessly until you’re overwhelmed and drop from pure exhaustion.
Even though museums can be daunting, they should be an experience that’s enjoyable and something you want to schedule on your next trip. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you enjoy your visit to the fullest!
Before You Visit:
The number one thing to do is to plan ahead! I cannot stress this enough. Yes, you can just show up and wander around, but you won’t be maximizing your unique experience. If you are visiting a popular destination, try purchasing your tickets ahead of time. Buy tickets for everything you want to see that’s offered like general admission, special exhibits, or IMAX theater presentations. You’ll avoid the long lines and the hassle of buying tickets on site, but be aware that some places have a processing fee of a few dollars (to me, it’s absolutely worth it!).
Since you’re already on their website buying tickets, do a deep dive into their website. We live in a digital era so, we might as well take advantage of it! Websites will help you plan your visit down to the last minute detail, including parking. That’s the last thing you want to do–struggle to find parking! If you are planning a visit with multiple people, Google locations that will suit multiple interests. The Field Museum in Chicago, IL or the Denver Museum of Nature and Science in Denver, CO are great examples.
When you’re purchasing advanced tickets, see if you can visit during a weekday to avoid the bustling weekends. If you don’t mind a crowd, go whenever you please, but for me and my husband, we like a more intimate setting and usually hit the sites on a weekday or really early in the morning on the weekend. You can have a really neat immersive experience by visiting at a slower time.
While You’re At the Museum:
You’re in the museum. Now, what? If the place has theater experiences, check those out first. Usually, you can pick your viewing time, opt for the earliest ones. You pay extra for that experience, make sure you watch the showing. If you choose a later show time, you may miss it if you’re somewhere else in the building, and there’s not always a refund or second chance to see it.
If it’s a multi-floor museum, I suggest starting at the top floor and working your way down. Whether you get there by foot or an elevator, it doesn’t really matter; however, in my experience, taking the stairs lets you interact with the museum in a unique and intimate manner. You may see things that you didn’t know were there. In some places, you are literally walking in the footsteps of past peoples. And by going to the top and working your way down–especially if you opt for the stairs–you are less likely to get tired. There is nothing worse than walking up steps when you’ve been on your feet for hours already!
Once you reach the floor you want to be on, check out the displays and exhibits that interest you first. By viewing the exhibits that you want to see, your experience will be much more rewarding and enjoyable. If the museum offers audio tours and the place is bursting at the seams, take advantage of it. This will cut down on reading associated text and will cancel out some of the noise.
While you’re taking a gander, remember to take breaks. There are usually spaces where visitors can sit. Take advantage of these
spaces where you can sit for a few minutes to rest and reflect. My husband and I always take a couple of breaks to talk about what we’ve seen and read. We tend to gravitate towards different displays, and this allows us to share our own individual experiences together. One of our favorite places to do so is at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. That place is huge and you can see so much!
Lastly, try to limit your visit to one to two hours (especially if it’s a large facility). If you are like me and can stay in a museum for hours, this won’t apply to you, but most people are not like me. Seriously, limiting your visit is a wise choice. If you stay until you are tired, grumpy, and/or bored, you risk damaging your experience or that of your groups.
Museums will always be among popular attractions, and they need our support now more than ever. Make the most of your next visit. Museums may not be your go-to destination, but if you approach them with these few tips and tricks in mind, you may just find out you have an inner museum nerd waiting to be unleashed.
Now, what museum are you going to visit next?
This article was edited from the original blog post: Nancy Benz. “So, You Want to Visit a Museum?: Tips and Tricks to Navigating Museums”. #TrackingHistory Blog, May 23, 2020. https://trackinghistorydotblog.wordpress.com/
Nancy Benz is the Curator of Collections and Exhibits at the Quincy Museum in Quincy, Illinois. She holds American History degrees from Quincy University (2014) and Western Illinois University (2018). Nancy has been working in public history for 10 years and owns Tracking Your History: Family Preservation Services.
differencemakers
What is the Veterans Assistance Commission of Adams County (VACAC) and why have a Veterans Assistance Commission (VAC)?
The VACAC is a County-wide organization that acts as a Veteran Assistance Organization for all of Adams County and our Veterans.
The VACAC was officially adopted by the Adams County Board in November 2023. It came to be after many months and, in many cases, years of work and preparation by a dedicated group of local Veterans and Veteran issue leaders. The VACAC began limited operation in January 2024, with our first staff member and full services very shortly after that date.
The VACAC is formed under State statute that became state law in its original form in the late 1800’s. Of the 102 counties in Illinois, the VACAC was the 46th VAC formed in Illinois; additional counties have added VACs since our inception, and there are now over 50 VACs. The VACAC is funded through the support of Adams County and our residents, grants, and foundation support. We are governed by an independent board consisting of delegates from the eligible Veteran Service Organizations in our County. Today, our Delegate Board has representatives from the Marine Corp League, Quincy American
Legion, Quincy VFW, Camp Point VFW, and the Reserve Officers Association. The basic theory of having a VAC is that if the need for veteran assistance of any type is too much for our veteran organizations, they can band together and request a VAC be established. The Adams County Board unanimously approved the establishment of the VACAC when presented for a vote.
The VACAC generally assists Veterans and their families residing within Adams County in obtaining benefits and services available to them by local, county, state, and federal private organizations and government agencies.
On a daily basis, we find ourselves assisting Veterans in filing VA claims, appeals, and upgrades for the benefits they have already earned but are still waiting to receive. Filing claims with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can be an overwhelming journey for Veterans and their families. Our staff works to make this process less daunting. We work with the Veteran and their family to advise and guide them through the entire VA process. Support and guidance for claims are especially valuable when a veteran has passed away, and we help the family obtain the benefits they deserve.
In the short term, the VACAC offers general financial assistance to help eligible Veterans, whether VA involved or not, make ends meet or deal with emergent issues. We provide financial assistance for things including food insecurity, transportation, homelessness/rent/housing, util-
ities, temporary housing, and home repairs, among many other items as needed. We provide advocacy for veteran issues, Veterans, and their families in a wide variety of circumstances and to many organizations and government entities. Additionally, we partner with most of the area assistance organizations to leverage all avenues of assistance for eligible Veterans. Working with our community partners, we endeavor to find some assistance for all eligible clients who seek help. Our clients are not limited by social or economic segment. We work with all veterans, meet them wherever they are in life, and offer our best options to meet their needs.
Our staff is comprised of Paul Havermale, Army Veteran, Superintendent, & Accredited VSO. Emily Watkins, Veteran Spouse, Veteran Benefits Supervisor, Deputy & Accredited VSO, and Penny Perrine, Air Force Veteran, Administrative Assistant. By State statute and VACAC policy, the Superintendent of the VACAC must be an Honorably discharged Veteran, and all staff are suggested to be Veterans or Family of a Veteran at their hire. The VACAC staff undergoes hours of initial and ongoing training to provide the best services possible to our Veterans. We are proud and determined to help our Veterans to the best of our abilities or find a source that can help if it goes past our capabilities.
As of this writing, the VACAC has interacted with over 150 clients. Our assistance has covered the full range of VACAC services offered, from financial or general assistance to helping our VA-involved clients obtain much-needed healthcare coverage, benefit upgrades, and initial VA benefits. The additional or initial VA benefits we have helped obtain for clients total hundreds of thousands of dollars annually for the clients and for our County.
Any services we offer veterans are entirely free to the Veteran or their family. To be eligible to receive our services, a Veteran must have an “Honorable” or “General under honorable conditions” discharge from the military. The Superintendent and the VACAC Delegate Board will review other discharges case-by-case. If a veteran is deemed ineligible, we will refer veterans to community services to assist them as best we can.
If any Veteran or family member needs assistance, please call your VACAC office at: 3701 East Lake Center Dr. Suite 3 Quincy, IL. 62305
Ph: 217-515-2822
Fax: 217-214-6336
Email: VACAC@adamscountyil.gov
For Veterans – With Veterans – By Veterans By Emily Watkins and Paul Havermale
Tri-State Service Foundation
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi said it best.
The Tri-State Service Foundation (TSSF) was created out of the simple need, the simple want, that at the end of the day, we can find ourselves by helping others. And it has been an interesting journey.
When we first thought about the idea of service, the easiest thing that came to mind was raising money. We quickly realized, however, that was not the answer. After all, there are 1.8 million non-profits in the United States, and every single one of them is doing exactly that, asking everyone for hard-earned money. Don’t get us wrong, we know very well that, at times, money is what’s needed; money can solve a lot of problems. We didn’t want to add one more to that number.
Time. Time is what we are after. Yes, it is our greatest commodity. We have only 24 hours in a day and 8,760 hours in a year. We have families, jobs, hobbies, and sleep, all asking for our time. It is because it’s the one thing we cannot stop, the one thing we have a finite number of, that it is the greatest thing you can give someone.
At the TSSF, we aim to raise awareness about service and helping each other, not with money but with our time. By creating events for people to volunteer at, sharing information and events by other non-profits, and bringing the discussion to the forefront, we hope people understand that helping each other is the right thing to do.
One such event is the National Month of Service in October of this year. We are asking business owners and organization presidents to give two hours or more of their time and go out into their communities to give back. Ask their employees, bring their families, and show our children how a helping hand can go a long way. And so far, we’ve had great success. Twenty-five businesses, plus another twenty families, have pledged their support, and the list will keep growing.
But we are not stopping there. We have also started the “Our Children Say Hello!” Campaign, where we ask a local elementary school to have their students write messages and create cards. We will send them to a Children’s hospital in the nation, helping our children understand that a card, a simple message, can lift the spirits of a complete stranger while getting nothing in return—just a gesture to make someone smile.
These are just two examples of what we are about. We don’t accept donations of money, and you won’t receive emails from us asking for money. What we want is your time.
And we promise you, you will find yourself in the process.
To find out more about the Tri-State Service Foundation and pledge your support to The Month of Service you can go to: www.tristateservicefoundation.org or scan the code below.
To sign up your elementary school for the “Our Children Say Hello”, you can go to https://www.tristateservicefoundation.org/ our-children-say-hello or scan the code below.
foodtalk
Pumpkin Spice & everything nice!
Fall is back, and that means one thing: “Pumpkin spice and everything nice!” Between the lattes, the pies, and the soups, pumpkin can be incorporated into just about anything. A pumpkin is a winter squash thought to have originated about 9000 years ago. Although the pumpkin is often referred to as a vegetable, it is actually a fruit since it contains seeds. More specifically, a pumpkin is a type of botanical berry called a “Pepo.” Aside from tasting delicious, pumpkins are packed full of many health benefits!
• Pumpkin is very high in Vitamin A. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin commonly known for helping protect your eyes from night blindness. It also has antioxidant properties that help protect your body’s immune system.
• Pumpkin is very nutrient-dense—packed full of nutrients while still being low-calorie. One cup of pumpkin is equal to about 50 calories, making it a low-calorie option.
• Pumpkin is great for the skin. It is high in beta-carotene (your body turns it into Vitamin A), which can act as a natural sunblock when consumed regularly. However, it is important to note that wearing SPF is still important when exposed to sunlight. Pumpkin is also high in
vitamin C, which helps make collagen, which your body uses to create healthy, glowing skin.
• Pumpkin is a good source of fiber. Fiber is important for maintaining a healthy Gastrointestinal tract, balanced blood sugars, and overall heart health.
• Pumpkin seeds are packed full of unsaturated fatty acids, protein, and other antioxidants, which may reduce one’s risk of developing some chronic diseases.
• Pumpkins and pumpkin seeds are extremely versatile and can take on many flavors, including sweet and savory. They are easy to incorporate into dishes. See below for some tasty pumpkin-infused treats!
Madison Sperry RD, LDN
Easy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Makes 1 1/2 cups
YOU WILL NEED
- 1 ½ cups pumpkin seeds
- 2 teaspoons fine sea salt, plus more for serving
- 2 teaspoons olive oil, melted coconut oil or nut oil like walnut
- 2 teaspoons your favorite spice blend such as pumpkin pie spice, curry powder, harissa or chili powder
DIRECTIONS
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Fill a medium saucepan with 2 cups of water and season with 2 teaspoons of salt. Bring to a boil.
Meanwhile, scoop the seeds from your pumpkin. Add the pumpkin seeds to a bowl filled with cold water and swish them until they float and are mostly clean.
Add the cleaned seeds to the boiling salted water. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Drain and pull away any remaining pumpkin attached to the seeds.
Scatter the seeds onto clean dishcloths and pat them very dry.
Mound the dried seeds onto the prepared baking sheet. Add the oil and spices, then toss until well coated.
Spread the seeds into one layer. Bake, stirring the seeds at least once, until fragrant and golden around the edges, 10 to 25 minutes, depending on the size of the seeds.
*Recipe by inspiredtaste.net
Recipe by Anna Fee RD, LDN
Breakfast Kabobs
PREP TIME: 10 mins
COOK TIME: 5 mins
SERVES: 4
Ingredients
16 Kodiak Cubs Buttermilk Adventure Flapjacks
4 strawberries, stems removed
1 kiwi, peeled, cut into four slices
4 slices banana
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Directions
Cook the flapjacks in a toaster until golden brown. Let cool.
Thread a skewer with four flapjacks, and one slice of each kind of fruit, placing the fruit in between the flapjacks.
Dust skewers with powdered sugar and serve!
Recipe provided by Kitchen McCabe found at https://kodiakcakes.com/blogs/recipes/ breakfast-kabobs/
INSTRUCTIONS
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Add the garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary to the pot. Sauté for another 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
Low Carb Chicken Pot Pie Soup cook time: 25 MINUTES MINS
INGREDIENTS
2 Tbsp olive oil
1.5 lbs boneless chicken breast cut into bite size pieces or 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
¼ cup diced onion
2 pcs carrots diced
2 pcs celery sticks diced
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tsp dried thyme
½ tsp dried rosemary
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup coconut milk or Almond Milk
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup heavy cream (optional, for added creaminess)
Salt and pepper to taste
If using raw chicken, add diced chicken breast to the pot and cook until browned and cooked through.
Pour in a little chicken broth and scrape up the bottom of the pot to get any bits stuck to the bottom. Add the remaining broth and coconut milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
If using cooked chicken, stir in the cooked chicken.
Add shredded cheese and heavy cream (optional), add it now for added creaminess.
Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
Recipe from: https://neutraleating.com/chicken-pot-pie-soup/
Parent-Teacher Communication: Building a Strong Partnership familylife
For many busy moms, the back-to-school season brings a mix of excitement and anxiety. Juggling work, household responsibilities, and children’s school needs can feel overwhelming. Your mornings might start with a chaotic rush to get everyone ready, leaving you exhausted before the day even begins. You worry about missing important moments in your child’s life and feel the pressure to stay on top of their academic progress. Does this sound familiar?
It’s a lot to handle, and you’re not alone in feeling this way. Children, too, face their own set of challenges. Adjusting to new routines, teachers, and classmates can be daunting. They may feel nervous about keeping up with schoolwork or fitting in socially. As a parent, you want to support them through these transitions, but it can be hard to know where to start.
And doing nothing certainly doesn’t reduce the impact these challenges bring to your family’s daily life and your child’s overall educational experience. Stressful mornings can affect your child’s focus and attitude at school, leading to a strained family atmosphere. However, effective communication between parents and teachers
can bridge this gap, ensuring your child receives the support they need both at school and at home to navigate the school year successfully.
Effective Communication Matters
Good parent-teacher communication creates a supportive learning environment for your child. It allows teachers to understand your child’s unique needs and enables you to stay informed about their progress. This collaborative approach helps address any issues early on, preventing small problems from becoming major obstacles. As a result, your child feels more supported and confident, which positively impacts their academic performance and overall well-being. Additionally, clear and consistent communication can alleviate your worries, reducing stress and creating a more harmonious home life.
Tips to Strengthen the Parent-Teacher Relationship
1.
Start the Year on the Right
Foot: Attend back-to-school nights or orientation sessions. Introduce yourself to your child’s teacher and share any pertinent information about your child’s needs, interests, and challenges. This initial contact sets a positive tone for the rest of the year.
2. Regular Check-Ins: Don’t wait for parent-teacher conferences to discuss your child’s progress. Set up regular check-ins, whether through emails, phone calls, or in-person meetings. This keeps you informed and shows the teacher your commitment to your child’s education.
3. Be Proactive and Positive: If you have concerns, address them early and positively. Approach the teacher with an open mind about the steps everyone should be taking for your child’s growth. If you have concerns, address them promptly rather than letting issues escalate
4. Stay Informed and Involved: Participate in school events, volunteer in the classroom if possible, and stay up-to-date with school newsletters. Your involvement demonstrates to your child the importance of education and fosters a sense of community.
5. Support Learning at Home: Reinforce what your child is learning in school by providing resources and activities at home. Encourage reading, help with homework, and engage in educational activities that complement their curriculum.
Insights from a Teacher: Enhancing Parent-Teacher Communication
We spoke with an experienced teacher who shared some practical tips for parents:
How can parents approach difficult conversations with teachers about their child’s progress or behavior?
Approach these conversations with empathy and a willingness to listen. Start by expressing your concerns calmly and asking for the teacher’s perspective. Aim to work together to find a solution rather than placing blame. Remember, the goal is to support your child’s growth and development. Additionally, come to the conversation with an open mind about the steps everyone should take for your child’s growth. If you have concerns, address them promptly rather than letting issue continues on page 18
escalate. Early communication helps ensure you and the teacher can address challenges effectively and collaboratively.
What information or updates do you find most helpful to receive from parents, and how often should these be communicated?
Regular updates about significant changes at home—like a move, family illness, or changes in routine—are essential because they can affect your child’s behavior and performance at school. For instance, if your child had a rough night of sleep or missed breakfast, a quick message to let us know can provide important context for any unusual behavior or difficulties they might experience at school. One teacher mentioned that knowing about these small details— such as a late night or a missed meal—can greatly help them understand and support your child’s needs. Consistent communication, even if brief, helps everyone stay on the same page and work together to support your child’s growth and well-being.
How can parents ensure they are effectively supporting their child’s education at home in alignment with classroom goals?
Ask questions. To effectively support your child’s education at home and align with classroom goals, ask the teacher for an overview of the curriculum and specific goals for the year. This helps you understand what your child is learning and how you can reinforce these concepts at home. Simple activities like reading together, practicing math skills, or discussing what they learned in school can make a big difference.
For instance, one teacher suggested that parents should inquire if there are any materials or activities they can work on at home. Reading to your child or having them read to you every night, even if it’s just a page, is incredibly beneficial. Additionally, she mentioned that there are many educational games aligned with the school curriculum. If you’re unsure which games would be most effective, ask your child’s teacher
The MuddyDog Room
for suggestions on games they use in the classroom that could also be engaging and helpful at home. This proactive approach ensures you’re reinforcing classroom learning and supporting your child’s educational growth.
What are some common communication mistakes parents make, and how can they avoid them to foster a better relationship with teachers?
One common mistake parents make is only reaching out to teachers when there’s a problem. Instead, try to share positive updates and celebrate achievements as well. This helps build a balanced and supportive relationship. Additionally, don’t wait until small concerns become big problems. Address issues early and work collaboratively with the teacher to find solutions.
Maintaining a positive relationship with your child’s teacher can be highly rewarding for everyone involved. Always speak positively about the teacher in front of your child to foster their respect and trust. Avoid jumping to conclusions or airing grievances on social
media. If you have concerns, it’s best to address them directly with the teacher by setting up a meeting. This proactive approach ensures that issues are resolved effectively and strengthens the partnership between home and school. Remember, it’s perfectly okay to reach out to the teacher anytime you have concerns—waiting until problems escalate can impact your child’s progress.
By taking these steps and maintaining open, proactive communication with your child’s teacher, you can create a supportive and enriching educational experience for your child. This not only helps your child succeed academically but also reduces stress and enhances the overall harmony in your family life. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Partnering with your child’s teacher can make the back-to-school transition smoother and more successful for everyone.
Submitted by Sarah Clark
Fall Family Activities: Create Unforgettable Memories
As the crisp autumn air arrives and the leaves begin to change, fall presents the perfect opportunity to connect with your family and make lasting memories. For busy moms, finding simple, enjoyable activities that bring the family together without adding to the stress can be a game-changer. Here are some easy and meaningful fall activities to help you embrace the season and enjoy quality time with your loved ones.
1. Pumpkin Decorating: Turn pumpkin decorating into a fun and meaningful activity. Instead of the traditional carving, try painting pumpkins. This is not only less messy but also allows for more creativity and safety for younger kids.
• Teal Pumpkins: Paint pumpkins teal to signify an allergy-friendly home. This signals to trick-or-treaters that you offer non-food treats, making Halloween safer and more inclusive for kids with food allergies.
•Glow-in-the-Dark Paint: Add some spooky fun by painting pumpkins with glowin-the-dark paint. These will look great on your porch at night and are sure to delight kids and neighbors alike.
•Chalkboard Paint: Cover your pumpkins in chalkboard paint and let your kids draw new designs on them every day with chalk. This can be a fun, interactive decoration that changes throughout the season.
2. Nature Walks and Scavenger Hunts: Explore local parks and trails, collecting colorful leaves, acorns, and pinecones. Create a scavenger hunt list and see who can find the most items. It’s a great way to enjoy the crisp air and beautiful fall foliage while engaging your kids in the wonders of nature.
3. Baking Together: Fall is synonymous with delicious treats. Spend a cozy afternoon baking apple pies, pumpkin muffins, or cinnamon rolls. Let the kids help with mixing, measuring, and decorating. It’s a fun way to bond and enjoy some tasty rewards. Try making allergy-friendly recipes if needed, so everyone can partake in the treats.
4. Family Movie Night: Pick some fall-themed or family-favorite movies, make some popcorn, and snuggle up under blankets. It’s a simple yet delightful way to spend an evening together. Consider setting up a cozy space with pillows and fairy lights to make it extra special.
5. Crafting and Decorating: Get creative with fall crafts. Make leaf prints by pressing colorful leaves onto paper with paint, create a fall wreath for your door using collected nature items, or decorate your home with DIY fall decor. These activities can become cherished traditions that your children look forward to each year.
Embrace the season and make the most of the beautiful fall days with these fun and meaningful activities. By spending time together doing these simple yet enjoyable tasks, you’ll create lasting memories and foster a deeper connection with your family. Happy fall!
Submitted by Sarah Clark
kidscorner
Junior Achievement: The Best Kept Secret in Education
Taylor Rakers was a loan officer for Liberty Bank in Barry, IL, when he was asked to volunteer for an organization called Junior Achievement at Western Elementary School. He never stopped volunteering in the classroom and loved it so much that within the next 5 years, when the District Manager position became available, he applied for the job. Taylor had sat on the board over the years and believed wholeheartedly in the mission, so he transitioned from banking to Junior Achievement (JA) and hasn’t looked back! As the District Manager of JA, Taylor oversees 5 counties in Illinois and all the way to Chillicothe, MO, as part of his District.
What is this mission, though? What makes it so fulfilling to be involved that he felt so compelled to join? If you have children in the local school system, they likely know what Junior Achievement or JA is. Each grade level, from kindergarten to high school, has a curriculum that involves pieces related to money and finance. The younger grades the learning focuses on determining a “want” versus a “need” to spend money on. As the grades progress, the focus moves to learning the importance of spending money in your community because if you don’t spend money in local shops and restaurants, then they won’t be able to stay open, etc. They also then
discuss the importance of donating money at the elementary levels.
Once they move to the 5th and 6th grade years, they get more into personal finance with the Biztown curriculum. This folds all of those topics together into an interactive experience in Chesterfield, Missouri; the children go on a trip as a class in which they are business owners or employees and patrons of other businesses in the “town” environment, making and spending money. My daughter did this field trip as a 6th grader and enjoyed every minute of it! This was my first introduction to JA as a parent, much to Taylor’s chagrin, I know.
In 7th and 8th grade and throughout high school, the JA curriculum continues with personal finance and focuses on investing and what that looks like. It also discusses insurance and the different types of insurance. The goal of the program is to create more informed consumers. Too often, we meet young people who have gone through high school and some college, whether it be community college or 4-year university, who have no idea what the importance of a retirement account is or, when it needs to be started, or the difference between full coverage and liability insurance and JA is trying to change that.
Junior Achievement also focuses on Work Readiness by finding what each child wants to do rather than having a college-only focus. Taylor holds three career fairs each year at Quincy Junior High School, Hannibal Middle School, and an area-wide fair for 13 different schools at Quincy University. Over 1000 kids attend these career fairs each year and are able to talk with business professionals in their field of interest that may or may not require a college degree. Taylor said, “Because college is just too expensive now to just go and try to figure out what you want to do once you get there, we want to narrow their focus and let them know what is available here in their community, and if they choose to go to college they know just what they need to study when they get there.”
JA allows this financial curriculum to be taught in the classroom in part because it is run by volunteers and because JA does fundraising, which makes the program possible. To learn more about how you can get involved in Junior Achievement in your child’s classroom or school, please contact your child’s principal or teacher directly. According to Taylor, “You’re helping the next generation of kids that will be employed, but as a parent, it’s a great way to see your child in a different atmosphere as their teacher rather than, say, in a class party environment. You get to see how they are excelling and see them learn. It’s a totally different experience.” Volunteers are set up for success and get great help from the teacher and JA guide. Taylor believes in leaving things better than he found them. JA means that he gets to serve an entire generation of kids. He hopes that this next generation of kids can handle money and understand money and finances better than his generation. He lives a life of service, whether it’s JA or coaching or running a flag football league with his wife and four friends. It allows him to serve people and his community. He finds so much joy in giving back.
In April, I was invited to attend the Junior Achievement Trivia Night Fundraiser with some friends, and it was a wonderful time! Interspersed between all the 90s references and Jock Jams were JA factoids, and I learned that continued on page 24
the organization was so much more than just the Biztown field trip my 6th grader had gone on a few years before. This fundraiser was crucial to the program because they don’t charge the schools for the curriculum used. The only charge is for Biztown materials; the field trip is free to the school and provided by JA. Taylor made a point to say, “JA curriculum is so important for all kids to learn, so it’s important that it’s not a line item in a budget that can get cut. We don’t want to enforce the ‘haves’ and the ‘have nots’ so kids don’t get left behind.”
Junior Achievement is here locally to help kids make better choices with money. Taylor said, “The average household has $10,000 in credit card debt, national debt, and personal debts are at an all-time high, so many things say that we aren’t good with money. As polarized as our nation is on so many things, education shouldn’t be one of those issues. That’s what I love about JA!” Taylor went on to say, “I can go into a classroom, and I just focus on three big things. ‘What do you want to be when you grow up? You can run a business if you want to do that. And the importance and basics of how to handle money.’”
There has been a local JA office in our area for 15 years, and yet Taylor said they still joke at the board meetings that, “We are the best kept secret in children’s education, and we don’t want to be!” Our local Junior Achievement Chapter consists of 11 board members representing all job types from Missouri and Illinois, primarily from the Quincy, Palmyra, and Hannibal areas, serving the children in the counties of Adams, Brown, Schuyler, Hancock, and Pike.
I hope I’ve inspired you to ask your children about Junior Achievement in their classroom and your children’s teachers about helping out in the classroom and if you can, please donate to the fundraisers. This program is helping to make our communities so bright and continue to keep it shining for years to come through our younger generation!
Take Care! Nikki
Funny Things Kids Say
• When I’m bigger I can put food in the oven!
• My son: *singing* I’m going potty! Mom: ok good idea Son: *side eye* I was talking to MYSELF!
• My son is 100% convinced he’s going to skateboard in the Olympics when he’s older. His dad asked him who his favorite skateboarder is and he shrugged his shoulders and said “um probably me!” To have the confidence of a 5 year old.
• Dad, can I be wolverine for Halloween? I promise I wn’t scratch anybody!
• My son is turning 4 soon but he is really an old man at heart. His birthday list consists of a sofa sleeper, a shovel, and a mop
• My son started first day this year and the three things he’s hoping to learn about include water animals, tigers, and army guys.
• When God made ants, he just used spider bits.
• If I copy a bee, I twon’t sting me……*buzzes*
• We have been working on using nice words in our house. My oldest told his brother to shut up while brushing their teeth so my husband asked him why he said that. My son replied that he didn’t mean to, he was just trying to spell cantaloupe.
• Cheese in my favorite vegetable!
kids corner kids corner kids kids corner kids corner corner
Crossword Puzzle Halloween
DOWN
1. Which movie does the line “Do you like scary movies?” come from?
2. Which country holds the record for the largest pumpkin ever?
6. What is another name for a large kettle or boiler?
9. What flying mammal is associated with vampires?
10. What is the main character’s last name in the Tim Burton film The Nightmare Before Christmas?
11. What’s another name for a lycanthrope?
12. How many colors of M&Ms are there in a normal bag?
13. What holiday comes after Halloween?
14. What does a magician say when performing a magic trick?
16. Before pumpkins were used, what was used to carve Jack o’ Lanterns?
17. What can you sprinkle in front of windows and doorways to help keep away evil spirits?
21. It is thought to be the spirit of a loved one watching over the person when you see this on Halloween.
22. What vegetable was once thought to have supernatural powers on Halloween?
25. What was the first movie to feature a toilet on screen?
ACROSS
3. What do you call a group of witches?
4. This popular cartoon ghost has appeared in dozens of films, tv series and comic books.
5. Which country celebrates the Day of the Dead starting at midnight on Oct. 31?
7. What is a male witch called?
8. What is the most prolific children’s horror book series?
15. In the story of “Frankenstein,” what is the first name of the scientist who creates the monster?
18. What is the name of the Romanian region where Dracula’s castle is located?
19. What state produces the most pumpkins?
20. According to superstition, a person born on Halloween has the ability to talk to whom?
23. In which country did Halloween originate?
24. What fruit is associated with Halloween?
26. What does the Halloween color black represent?
27. Which sea creature has inspired plenty of monster flicks?
Submitted by Lisa Freed
health&wellness
Tiny Tweaks, Big Benefits: How Small Changes in Your Routine Can Improve Physical Health
Finding time for a full workout can seem daunting in our busy lives. However, the path to better physical health doesn’t require drastic changes or hours at the gym. In fact, incorporating small, simple activities into your daily routine can significantly impact your overall well-being. This article explores the importance of regular physical activity and provides easy tips to help you seamlessly integrate more movement into your day.
The Power of Small Changes
People often think improving physical health requires intense exercise regimens or strict diets. While structured workouts and mindful eating are certainly beneficial, even modest increases in physical activity can yield substantial health benefits. Small movements throughout the day can improve cardiovascular health, increase strength and flexibility, and enhance mental well-being.
Here’s how you can make those small changes count:
Tips for Sneaking More Movement into Your Day
1. Take the Stairs: One of the easiest ways to incorporate more physical activity is by taking the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator. Climbing stairs is a great cardiovascular exercise that also tones the muscles in your legs and glutes.
2. Desk Exercises: If you work at a desk, sitting for long periods can lead to stiffness and poor posture. Combat this with simple desk exercises, such as seated leg raises, shoulder shrugs, or desk push-ups. Set a timer to remind yourself to stand up and stretch every hour.
3. Walk and Talk: Make walking a habit during phone calls or meetings. Whether a stroll around your office or a walk in your neighborhood, this is an excellent way to incorporate movement without disrupting your workflow.
4. Park Further Away: Instead of looking for the closest parking spot, park further away from your destination. The extra steps add up throughout the day and can significantly contribute to your daily physical activity.
5. Take Short Exercise Breaks: Use commercial breaks or short breaks at work as opportunities to get moving. Do a quick set of jumping jacks, squats, or push-ups. Even just five minutes of activity can boost your heart rate and energy levels.
6. Incorporate Household Chores: Turn chores into mini-workouts. Vacuuming, gardening, or even cleaning the windows can be excellent ways to stay active. Put on some music and turn your chores into a fun, calorie-burning activity.
7. Stretch Regularly: Incorporate stretches into your routine, especially after sitting for extended periods. Stretching helps improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, and prevent injury. Simple stretches like touching your toes, doing arm circles, or stretching your neck can make a difference.
8. Use a Stability Ball: Swap your desk chair for a stability ball for a few hours each day. Sitting on a stability ball engages your core muscles, improves posture, and adds a subtle workout to your routine without any extra time commitment.
9. Opt for Active Transportation: Whenever possible, walk or bike instead of driving. This is great for your physical health and reduces your continued on page 31
IMMUNIZATIONS
Adams County Health Department
Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:30pm
Entering
Kindergarten
Entering
6th Grade
DTaP-IPV (Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis/Polio)
MMRV (Measles/Mumps/Rubella/Varicella)
TDaP (Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis)
Meningococcal ACWY HPV
Entering
12th Grade
carbon footprint. If you commute, try getting off public transport a stop early to add extra steps to your day.
10. Try a Standing Desk: If possible, invest in a standing desk or a convertible desk setup. Standing while working can reduce the negative effects of prolonged sitting and increase your daily energy expenditure.
The Benefits of Small, Consistent Efforts
Small changes might seem small initially, but these consistent efforts accumulate over time. Here are some benefits of these small, daily movements:
• Improved Cardiovascular Health: Even in small doses, regular movement can improve heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Enhanced Mood and Energy: Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. Small bursts of movement can increase energy levels and reduce feelings of fatigue.
• Better Flexibility and Balance: Simple movements and stretching improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, and enhance balance, which is especially important as we age.
• Weight Management: Incorporating more movement into your day can help burn extra calories, which supports weight management and overall health.
• Reduced Stress Levels: Movement, even low-intensity, has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, leading to better overall mental health.
Improving your physical health doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By making small, manageable changes to your daily routine, you can reap significant benefits without feeling like you’re drastically altering your lifestyle. Remember, every little bit of movement counts. Start by incorporating some of these tips today, and enjoy the journey to a healthier, more active life!
Submitted by Brandy Owens
Triglycerides: Why Do They Matter?
Triglycerides play an important role in a healthy heart. What if our triglycerides are too high, and why do they matter?
High triglyceride levels in your blood can increase your risk of heart disease. The same lifestyle choices that promote overall health can also help lower triglycerides.
What are triglycerides?
Triglycerides are a type of fat (lipid) found in your blood.
When you eat, your body converts the calories it doesn’t need to use immediately into triglycerides. The triglycerides are stored in your fat cells. Later, hormones release triglycerides for energy between meals.
If you regularly eat more calories than you burn, particularly from high-carbohydrate foods, you may have high triglycerides (hypertriglyceridemia).
What’s considered normal?
Adults
While this may vary slightly, adults generally have four ranges of blood triglyceride levels. In this case, “normal” means the range people should aim for to stay healthy.
Normal: under 150 mg/dl
Borderline high: 151–199 mg/dl
High: over 200 mg/dl
Very high: over 500 mg/dl
Numbers may vary based on age and other risk factors a person may have.
Children and teenagers
Children may have slightly lower triglyceride levels than adults. Normal fasting triglyceride levels for children under the age of 10 are less than 75 mg/dl.
The ranges for children under 10 are:
Normal: under 75 mg/dl
Borderline high: 75–99 mg/dl
High: over 100 mg/dl
The ranges for children and teenagers ages 10–19 are slightly higher:
Normal: under 90 mg/dl
Borderline high: 90–129 mg/dl
High: over 130 mg/dl
What’s the difference between triglycerides and cholesterol?
Triglycerides and cholesterol are different types of lipids that circulate in your blood:
• Triglycerides store unused calories and provide your body with energy.
• Cholesterol is used to build cells and certain hormones.
Why do high triglycerides matter?
High triglycerides may contribute to hardening of the arteries or thickening of the artery walls, which increases the risk of stroke, heart attack, and heart disease. Extremely high triglycerides can also cause acute inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis).
High triglycerides are often a sign of other conditions that increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, including obesity and metabolic syndrome — a cluster of conditions that includes too much fat around the waist, high blood pressure, high triglycerides, high blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol levels.
High triglycerides can also be a sign of:
• Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes
• Metabolic syndrome — a condition when high blood pressure, obesity, and high blood sugar occur together, increasing your risk of heart disease
• Low levels of thyroid hormones (hypothyroidism)
• Certain rare genetic conditions that affect how your body converts fat to energy
Sometimes, high triglycerides are a side effect of taking certain medications, such as:
• Diuretics, Estrogen and progestin, Retinoids, Steroids, Beta-blockers, Some immunosuppressants, Some HIV medications continued on page 34
Factors that may cause high levels.
The American Heart Association notes that several factors may contribute to higher triglyceride levels, including:
• Having excess weight or obesity
• Alcohol consumption
•Excess sugar intake, especially from processed foods with added sugars
• High intake of saturated fats
• Physical inactivity
• Metabolic syndrome
• Insulin resistance
• Diabetes
• Thyroid conditions, including hypothyroidism
• Pregnancy
• Chronic kidney disease
• Inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis
What’s
the best way to lower triglycerides?
Healthy lifestyle choices are key:
• Exercise regularly. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most or all days of the week.
• Avoid sugar and refined carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates, such as sugar and foods made with white flour or fructose, can increase triglycerides.
• Lose weight. Reducing your calories will reduce triglycerides.
• Choose healthier fats. Trade saturated fat in meats for healthier fat in plants, such as olive and canola oils. Instead of red meat, try fish high in omega-3 fatty acids — such as mackerel or salmon.
• Limit how much alcohol you drink. Alcohol is high in calories and sugar and has a particularly potent effect on triglycerides.
What
about medication?
Your doctor may recommend medications if healthy lifestyle changes aren’t enough to control high triglycerides. If your doctor prescribes medication to lower your triglycerides, take the medication as prescribed. And remember the significance of the healthy lifestyle changes you’ve made. Medications can help — but lifestyle matters, too.
Top Foods to Help Lower Triglyceride Levels
Soy protein, Fatty Fish, Avocado, Quinoa, Whole Grains, Coconut Oil, Garlic, Cruciferous Vegetables
Foods to Avoid if You Have High Triglycerides
Starchy Foods, too much Fruit, Alcohol, Canned fish packed in oil, Sugary Drinks, Honey or Maple Syrup, Baked Goods – Butter and trans fats, High Fat Meats, Butter or Margarine
– Use olive oil or canola, walnut, and flaxseed oils.
Information from Mayo Clinic and Medical News Today
Submitted by Lisa Freed
Hidden Danger: Lead Paint & Your Child’s Health
Lead lurks in unexpected places, and for young children, one of the most common culprits is old paint. Many parents worry about the safety of their homes, and with good reason. Lead paint, once widely used, can pose a serious health risk to young children. Homes built before 1978, when lead paint was banned, can harbor this toxic metal. When paint chips or dust fall onto floors or surfaces, curious little hands and mouths can explore and unknowingly ingest lead.
Even small amounts can be harmful. Lead disrupts brain development, leading to learning difficulties, behavioral problems, and decreased IQ. The effects can be lifelong.
Protecting Your Child
The good news is that there are steps you can take to safeguard your child:
• Minimize lead dust. Regularly clean floors and surfaces with a damp cloth. Wash your child’s hands frequently.
• Address chipping or peeling paint. Don’t try DIY fixes – lead-safe removal methods are crucial.
• Talk to your pediatrician. They can test your child’s blood lead levels and provide guidance.
Beyond the Walls
Lead exposure can also come from contaminated soil, water, and even some imported toys. Here’s how to stay vigilant:
• Be mindful of where your child plays. Avoid areas with lead-contaminated soil, such as near old buildings or barns.
• Check your water source. If you have concerns, have your water tested for lead.
• Choose safe toys. Look for certifications indicating the toy is lead-free.
• Research imported items such as spices and child supplements. Check the Food and Drug Administration for recalls, market withdrawals & safety alerts.
Early childhood is critical for brain development. You may also contact your local public health department to see if your child can be tested for lead exposure.
For more information:
•Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Lead Poisoning Prevention
•Environmental Protection Agency: Lead
Submitted by Mitchell Housewright
