Kid's Play Family Magazine- Fall 2014

6 9

Quick Quips Babywearing

18

Common Core State Standards?

20

Hybrid Education

Tri-Cities Newest Attraction

22

Curious About Catholic School

Explosions! (Kind of)

24

Tri-City Family Event Calendar:

Dads love it too!

11 14

Welcome to The REACH! Kitchen Experiments

16

What’s it all about anyway?

A New School for Richland

What makes it different?

Fall Family Fun!

Education:

Tri-City Schools

in this issue Fall 2014

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Kid’s Play

PO Box 4013 West Richland, WA. 99353 509-528-3891 www.KidsPlayTC.com I have this philosophy when it comes to parenting topics- two of the most important things we can do for our children are: Feed their minds and feed their bodies. You’ll see quite a few of the articles we cover here in Kid’s Play Magazine revolve around these two principles. But, think about it, what do kids need to be healthy? They need to have their bodies nourished and fed, and their minds cultivated.

Thousands of topics can fall into these two categories and there are millions of opinions on these two principles.

People will argue forever about how and what to eat, how to educate, what constitutes an education, and on and on. But the fact remains- kids need to eat, they can’t survive without eating, and kids need to learn, they can’t thrive if they don’t learn about the world around them.

This issue of Kid’s Play Magazine is heavily weighted towards education- there are some new and interesting developments taking place on a national, state, and local level regarding how our children are being taught. We set out to discover and decipher some of those changes so we could share them with you. (And I will talk more about this on page 16 in our education intro.)

Our family has put some serious research into where we wanted to send our kids to school. Between my work for Kid’s Play and exploring for our own education journey, I have toured and researched every private and public school in the Tri-City area. I’ve pored over test statistics listed on the Department of Education’s website, I’ve grilled principals and teachers, I’ve interviewed parents, I’ve compared lunch menus and walkability of school campuses, I’ve obsessed over silly things I probably never need to worry about. But I can say this about the schools in the Tri-City area: We have some amazing schools and some really cool stuff happening here.

The biggest thing I’ve learned from all of my research? That every kid is different, every family is different, and every experience is different. I’ve talked to kids and parents from the same school, sometimes the same classroom even, and received completely different perspectives of the same situation. I’ve been reminded over and over again that when it comes to education, much like with children in general, there is no “one size fits all” category. The needs of every child and every family are different.

Our family is about to embark on the Great Kindergarten Adventure this year. Our oldest will pack up her backpack and join the ranks of the “big kids” this fall. My husband and I are approaching this adventure one year at a time. We have made what we feel is the best school choice for her, now, as a 5 year old, and we’ve committed to re-evaluating that decision each year to determine if the school structure we’ve chosen is still meeting her needs as she grows.

It was incredibly freeing for me to realize that I don’t have to choose a school for her for the rest of her grade school years- I just have to make the decision for this year. Should the need arise, there is room for change somewhere down the road.

As the new school year begins, I wish this for all our families and readers- that your child is being educated and challenged. That your family feels supported in the education decisions you have made. And that, as parents, we all exercise the option to punt if we need to.

Have a wonderful fall. (And BTW, Go Hawks! :)

Jennifer Tomasino, Owner/Editor

Owner/ Editor Jennifer Tomasino Editor@KidsPlayTC.com (509) 528-3891 Assistant Jennifer Parks Info@KidsPlayTC.com Advertising Sales@KidsPlayTC.com (509)528-3891 All Photos Copyright Jenna Boogerd Photography (509)942-4604

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YMCA Healthy Tips Corner

The back-to-school season can be a busy time of year as we adjust to new routines and make time for homework, afterschool activities and new friends. As you and your family rearrange your schedules to squeeze it all in, don’t forget to make time for a basic but critical component of good health—sleep!

Restful sleep is proven to have important short- and long-term health benefits for children and adults. It plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy metabolism and immune system, improving memory and the ability to learn, and more. Getting enough restful sleep can enrich your family’s quality of life and overall well-being.

With these helpful tips for kids and adults, your family will be getting plenty of rest in no time.

FOR KIDS •Bedtime Means Lights Out: Stick to a consistent bedtime and avoid allowing kids to watch TV or read until they fall asleep.

•Establish a Routine: Adopt a relaxing routine to help children wind down before bed. It might include getting a drink of water, putting on pajamas, brushing their teeth and reading a story with a parent.

•Mind the Over-Scheduling: Remember that if kids don’t get the rest they need one night because of a busy schedule, they can “catch up” by getting extra rest later on.

Experts recommend the following amounts of sleep each day to ensure our bodies and minds get the rest they need: Preschool: 11–12 hours School-age: 10 hours Teenagers: 9–10 hours FOR ADULTS •Watch When You Eat: Prepare your body and mind for better sleep by eating dinner at least two hours before bedtime and avoiding overeating.

•Don’t Clock-Watch: Avoid watching the clock if you’re unable to fall asleep. Instead, get out of bed and divert your attention until you feel drowsy. Try reading a book or listening to music.

•Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment: Keep your bedroom quiet, dark, cool and comfortable, and limit the times that you allow kids or pets to sleep with you.

Experts recommend that adults should get 7–8 hours of sleep for a healthy and productive lifestyle

Quick Quips 6

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Babywearing is for Dads too!

Daniel

(dad)

&

Ahziah

(22 months old)

We were introduced to babywearing through a friend. I have worn my son since he was just a day old. We started with the Moby wrap and used that the first 4 months pretty steady. Since my wife was recovering from a C-section I did a majority of the carrying the first few months. Once Ahziah was big enough we started using the Ergo all the time. When he was about 9 months old we added a Beco Butterfly 2 (shown) to our collection. I’ve also worn my 3 year old niece in a Kelty hiking backpack on a trip to Grand Canyon last fall (I can’t think of a safer way to hike with small kids on the edge of a cliff).

I loved the Ergo for around town, until we got the Beco, now this is my favorite. The shoulder straps seem to stay on and are a better fit for me. I found Moby wrap difficult to get tight enough; it took a lot of practice.

You asked where I’ve worn Ahziah, and I think the question should be “where haven’t I?” :) Through airport security, on walks, at the mall, the park, baseball game, sporting events, berry picking, on a bus, LOTS of hiking, the house, while doing yard work.

I love wearing my son. It’s convenient, hands free, and easy to multitask. I also love the bonding we do while I’m wearing him. We have some of the best laughs and conversations while he’s buckled in.

Trevor & Sebastian (dad)

(5 months old)

My wife introduced me to babywearing and I realized how simple it is. I was easy to convince because I quickly realized babywearing makes life easier. And the kiddo likes it.

Sebastian and I have cruised car shows, gone to the store, and been on many park trips in this carrier.

So far I’ve only used the Tula carrier (shown) and I really like it. My wife is learning how to use the woven wraps and teaching me along the way.

I highly recommend babywearing to all dads: It’s awesome. It’s easy.

It frees you up to get things done but still makes you feel your baby is always supported. It also looks cool. Plus, it is more convenient than pushing a stroller and easier than carrying your baby. Put the diaper bag on your back and your baby on your front and you are ready to go!

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the A Visit to REACH

There is a new road to the REACH. Just off Columbia Center Blvd, and a short drive down Columbia Park Trail, is a brand new building-part museum, part interpretive center, part visitor center, part art gallery and part performing arts facility-the REACH is a hybrid.

(Turn the page to keep reading)

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Looking up the hill, there is a winding trail and it is filled with life-sized metal animals, the “critters” that live on the Hanford Reach National Monument. As you make the turn at 1943 and come up the hill, a building that resembles a really cool giant Lego looks out over the hillside. At first the plants all around the building look like weeds, but on closer inspection, they are actually plants native to the area. This is definitely not a country club with manicured lawns. This is natural. To the left is a pond with ducks, the odd marmot, swallows and other birds that are making the REACH their home. There are five plant communities at the REACH that help teach us about the shrub steppe and riparian environments found in and around the Tri-Cities.

As you drive up to the entry, there is a huge section of a center pivot. Pivots are used throughout the area to irrigate large circles that grow everything from hay to potatoes, onions, corn, and other crops. These crops find their way to Canada, Asia, Europe, literally to countries around the globe. Nearby are two wooden cylinders and these are from the early days of irrigation around 1910 when everything was done by hand. At the entrance of the REACH the building is curved with a stack in the background. This style represents the B Reactor side of the building.

Immediately inside the entrance is a beautiful aquarium filled with Columbia River fish. The fish are provided by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and change periodically. Just past the fish is an exhibit on Grand Coulee Dam and hydropower in the Pacific Northwest, the “power” behind all the electricity we all use and enjoy.

To the left is Visitor Services where the staff and volunteers are smiling when they say, “Welcome to the REACH!” Looking down at the floor is a little weird, a little like a can of paint when it tips over. It is painted in brown and blue with no particular pattern, at least not until you see the sign that explains that you are standing on “Lake Lewis” as it receded during the Ice Age Floods. What is so amazing is that the entire Tri-Cities was under water in those days, and before the Floods, there were actually camels and even rhinoceros living here.

On the opposite side of Visitor Services is a small store, and even there, local stories are told in the form of items for sale that represent the talent and creativity of community artists and specialty food producers.

Gallery I to the right of Visitor Services is a 4,000-square foot space that houses four exhibits: The Land Takes Form, the story of the geology of the area; then The Living Land that tells the story of the native tribes, early settlers, plants and animals up to building Grand Coulee Dam; The Land Transformed, a teaser exhibit on the story of the Hanford Site; and finally Saving the Reach, the story of the grass roots effort to save 196,00 acres of land and 51 miles of the Columbia River. In 2000, President Clinton named the Hanford Reach a National Monument and the land and river is now protected forever.

Coming back into the main hall, there is a curved wall about 20-feet high and on that wall is a satellite photo mural of the Columbia Basin Project. There are hundreds of green circles on that map going almost to Grand Coulee Dam to the north and those circles are irrigated agriculture and represent about 1.5 million acres. That is a lot of corn, potatoes and onions! There are monitors that tell the story of the pioneers of agriculture in the Columbia Basin.

Inside the curved wall is a “rotating gallery” which means the exhibits are not permanent and will continue to change. For the opening of the REACH there is a quilt exhibit developed by the White Bluffs Quilt Museum on themes of the Columbia River. There is a metal sculpture of a pelican who sometimes resides here, but there might also be a digital planet, which is an amazing monitor that looks like a globe and on it are incredible pictures of global weather patterns, population, climate change, plate tectonics and other “weird science” that can be seen with the touch of your hand on another flat-screen monitor.

Next to the “round room” is Gallery II. This gallery tells the story of the Manhattan Project-Hanford Engineering Works, our community’s role in helping to end World War II. The land used to belong to Native Americans, farmers and homesteaders and in 1942, the government came and exercised “eminent domain” and took the land for a super secret project. For the duration of the war, the over 100,000 people who came to work on the project, never knew what they were working on.

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The REACH iseance! hands-on experi

Across the way is a multi-purpose room that has some gorgeous artwork and is used for student activities, teacher trainings, meetings and workshops. There is a “Little Sprouts” area that has educational toys for the Pre-K crowd. Sometimes the space is used for special events too!

Exiting on the “river side” of the building, the view of the Columbia River is absolutely spectacular. Standing on the biggest patio in the Tri-Cities, provides a view like none other and the Adirondack chairs are pretty appealing. Looking out from the patio to the right, is a 700-seat outdoor theater. When the REACH opened in July, so did “The Sound of Music”. Over 1,500 people were introduced or reintroduced to the pleasures of outdoor theater. To the left of the theater is a “sun sculpture” the brainchild of local middle school students. This coming year, the planets in the solar system will be designed and fabricated by students and then run along the “solar sidewalk” up to the building. (see page 21 for more info on the sun sculpture) On this side of the building, it reflects the striping and striations of the Ice Age Floods as well as the poles of a Native American longhouse.

Whether you are inside or outside the REACH, you know you are in a very special place. A place that is filled with stories, some right in front of you and some that require a little looking to discover. Not unlike the Tri-Cities... a subtle beauty and depth that grows on you. This is an experience you won’t want to miss and an asset that will continue to grow and expand as the community evolves.

Welcome to the REACH...

Our Stories Start Here!

Exploding Soap!

What kid doesn’t like that?!

Now that we have your attention, it’s not really an explosion. We wouldn’t tell you to do anything that could be potentially dangerous (or would hurt your appliances). But this is still really cool. And easy.

All you need:

-A bar of Ivory brand soap -A glass or ceramic plate -A microwave -Help from an adult Remove all wrapping and packaging from the bar of soap. Place soap on the plate.

Place plate in the microwave. Set to regular power for 2 ½ minutes.

Watch to see what happens!

Your soap will start reacting in about 20 seconds Be sure to leave the soap in the microwave for the entire 2 1/2 minutes, it’ll keep growing and growing!

Caution: Soap will be hot when you remove it from the microwave.

Please wait till it cools down before touching it.

It’s up to you to decide what to do with your soap after you’ve exploded it. We made a really awesome bubble bath with our experiment leftovers.(We used a regular dinner plate for this experiment. Since this is just regular soap, any residue leftover from this experiment washes right off)

Special Thanks to: 14

See ad page 25

EDUCATION

By Jennifer Tomasino

DIBELs, AIMS, ALEKS, No Child Left Behind, Common Core State Standards: The world of education is riddled with terms and acronyms. Sometimes it is hard for parents to keep up with all the terms, standardization, and learn how all these acronyms play into the big picture.

There is a lot of talk about schooling and education right now. There are a lot of changes being made on Federal, State, and Local levels. There were a lot of Tri-City families who received seemingly ominous letters from the local school districts recently. The world we live in is changing as we employ more and more technology.

When I started researching for the articles in this issue I wanted to know one main thing: What are the facts?

When you boil it all down, and take away all the opinions, what does Common Core (CCSS) mean? What is this new type of school in Richland that people keep talking about? What makes Catholic school different? I feel like there are so many people shouting at parents from every direction: but how do we know that every opinion is rooted in fact?

So that’s what we did. We tried our very best to take the opinions out of the equation and give you just the facts; especially as related to the Common Core State Standards. Here is the solid information that you can use as a starting point for your own research. And it’s not by accident that we covered three different types of education in this issue: Public, Private, and Hybrid. We wanted to take a sample of the options that Tri-City families have available and define them.

The biggest thing that we as parents can do is to pay attention. I, personally, think it is great that there is such a national conversation going on about Common Core State Standards. If nothing else, it means that parents are paying attention, that parents are engaged in their children’s education. This is a good thing! We need to pay attention to what our kids are learning, pay attention to the feedback our teachers are giving us, and if something isn’t working for our children then we need to pay attention to our options.

This issue is a starting point for your family’s education exploration. Begin here, conduct your own research, find out what works for you and your family. This issue is the beginning of a series on education, we will be covering CCSS math standards in the Winter issue, and talking about the Department of Early Learning Standards next Spring. We are honored that you are on this journey with us, and we hope that we can all learn something throughout this process! If you have feedback for us regarding this issue, or upcoming topics, please send it to me: editor@kidsplaytc.com. Kid’s Play Magazine is for YOU, by LOCAL experts. If you have a question, we want to put you in contact with the person who can answer it for you!

Oh, and hug your child’s teacher. Through all of this research it became obvious just how dramatically teacher’s jobs have changed in the past decade. New assessments vs. old assessments, new standards vs. old standards; we’ve always known that teachers have a lot on their plates, but imagine having your job rewritten every couple of years. Teachers deserve a hug, and probably a coffee. :) Also note: we cover the Richland Homelink school on page 20, but there is also a Kennewick program called Mid Columbia Partnership (MCP) which is similar to Homelink. For more information on MCP visit http:// schools.ksd.org/mcp/

Photos by:

Common Core State Standards

By Kid’s Play Magazine Staff

You have probably heard the phrase before, but what does it mean? If you have young children, chances are that the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) are a major player in your children’s lives. But how do you separate the facts of CCSS from the millions of opinions? (and trust us, there are millions of opinions) When preparing for this story we asked local parents what they wanted to know- and received a variety of responses.

Rasheal, Mother of 2 in Kennewick, summed it up best when she asked: “I would like to know, from their perspective, what is wrong with the “old” way, the way we all learned? Maybe if we understood why they are changing it so much, we might have a better attitude about it?”

We asked Richland School District Nicole Blake (Executive Director of Teaching and Learning) and Kristina Tucker (Coordinator of English Language Arts and Social Studies K-12) to help us understand the Common Core State Standards so we could share with you, our readers, some basic facts about the program.

In a nutshell, Common Core is a standardization of education across the country. The primary purpose of CCSS is to make sure that 2nd grade students in Washington are learning the same things as 2nd graders in Kansas, New York, and Arizona. CCSS also exists to make sure that what kids are learning in 1st grade ties into what they will be learning in 2nd grade, and 3rd grade, all the way up to college.

Why would you want to standardize learning across states? Well, imagine that you have a 4th grade student and your family relocates from South Carolina to Washington- it is possible that your student now finds themselves in a completely different grade level in the new state than the level they were learning in the old state.

With more and more families relocating for a variety of reasons, one thing CCSS is attempting to do is make transitions across state lines easier for school age kids.

There is also the topic of relating information to all grade levels: when the CCSS board started curriculum development they sat down and defined what a High School graduate (from any state) should know. They took those bullet points and broke them down into grade levels, starting with 12th grade and working backwards, so that teachers, parents, and students know exactly where each grade ties into the grand scheme of things.

Kristina from RSD described it as: before each teacher was given a puzzle piece and told “here you go, teach this 3rd grade piece.” Now we give teachers the entire puzzle and have them take out the 3rd grade piece. CCSS allows teachers to see how their grade level standards build on the prior year’s knowledg, and fits into the learning scheduled for next year. (see sidebar) Another feature of CCSS is trying to reach a year’s worth of growth in each student. This means that kids who come into 3rd grade already comprehending most of the 3rd grade material will still need to show a year’s worth of academic progress. The same will go for kids who come in at the bottom of the scale. If another child comes into 3rd grade reading at a first grade level, they’ll need to show improvement at least to a second grade level.

Is CCSS perfect? No. In our opinion there are holes and there are flaws. But such is life- no education structure is going to cover every single base and meet every single need. However, there is a lot of good in CCSS as well. Do the pros outweigh the cons? We don’t know yet- with this program still in its infancy, only time will tell whether CCSS will reach its goals. Until then, parents can continue doing what they’ve always done: communicate with your child, communicate with your child’s teacher, look for ways to get involved in your child’s classroom, and supplement your child’s education as you see fit. Remember, Mom and Dad, you are the one who knows your child better than anyone.

For example- Here is a sample schedule of Standards, and how they tie into each year: (copied directly from the teacher’s guidebooks and CCSS website) End Target: College and Career Readiness Anchor Standard for Reading Standard #3 (What high school graduates should be able to do) “Analyze how and why individuals, events, and ideas develop and interact over the course of a text” Here are the Standards given to each grade level, “defining what students should understand and be able to do by the end of each grade.”

For 6th Grade and up the goals can vary by subject- for this example we show the same Reading goal #3, but use the application of History/Social Studies for grades 6-12: -11th Grade-12th Grade: Evaluate various explanations for actions or events and determine explanation best accords with textual evidence, acknowledging where the text leaves matters uncertain.

-9th Grade-10th Grade: Analyze in detail a series of events described in a text; determine whether earlier events caused later ones or simply preceded them.

-6th Grade-8th Grade: Identify key steps in a text’s description of a process related to history/social studies (e.g. how a bill becomes law, how interest rates are raised or lowered).

---5th Grade: Compare and contrast two or more characters, settings, or events in a story or drama, drawing on specific details in the text (e.g. how characters interact).

-4th Grade: Describe in depth a character, setting, or event in a story or drama, drawing on specific details in the text (e.g. character’s thoughts, words, or actions).

-3rd Grade: Describe characters in a story (e.g. their traits, motivations, or feelings) and explain how their actions contribute to the sequence of events.

-2nd Grade: Describe how characters in a story respond to major events and challenges.

-1st Grade: Describe characters, settings, and major events in a story, using key details.

-Kindergarten: With prompting and support, identify characters, settings, and major events in a story.

The full CCSS guidelines are available on the OSPI website under the Common Core tab (the link is in middle of the page at the time of this printing)

www.k12.wa.us

19

Hybrid Education

?

By Homelink Staff

When it comes to considering all of the education options available, most parents envision three categories: Public School, Private School, and Homeschool. But what if we told you there was a program that took aspects of all three of those categories and tailored the education experience to each individual family?

The good news is that there is such a program- and it’s located in Richland and publicly funded as a part of the Richland School District. Three Rivers HomeLink partners with families that really want to have control over their child’s education and works to tailor each student’s education to their specific needs. HomeLink is an accredited, innovative and individualized learning experience for students in grades K-12.

HomeLink was born in 2008 by a group of parents working with the Richland School District (RSD). The program originally included 40 students, an administrator, and four part time staff members. Today HomeLink has around 400 students, an administrator, and 35 staff members. Classes are held and workshops are offered onsite 5 days a week, the Skillbuilding Lab supported over 100 students last year in the areas of reading and math, and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) students worked with the Hanford REACH Interpretive Center to design aspects of the Solar System Art Display (see sidebar). HomeLink was also recently one of four schools in the State that was awarded the Washington State designation of “Innovative School”.

So how does it work?

Here are the basics: First off, to be successful at Three Rivers HomeLink you need an “engaged parent and a willing student.” Each HomeLink student is assigned a certificated consultant (certified teacher). The consultant serves as a resource to the family, helping parents to choose curriculum and develop learning plans, overseeing student progress, and troubleshooting any difficulties that may arise. Students work at their own level and pace, often working above grade level in one subject and perhaps below grade level in another. Students who want to be consistently challenged can learn at their own individual pace in the home.

HomeLink runs on a “parent partnership” model wherein school staff and parents work together to provide an education tailored to the student’s needs, interests, and learning styles. In the elementary grades, the parents provide all core instruction at home under the supervision of a certificated teacher, with on-site supplemental learning 20

opportunities available as desired, usually one or two days per week. These opportunities consist of workshops such as Lego Robotics, Science Chef, art, karate, archery, and many others; field trips; and private music lessons (currently voice, guitar, piano, and violin).

In middle school and high school, options abound. Most students choose a blend of on-site instruction and athome instruction, based on their needs and interests. Beginning in high school, students may also choose online learning, Tri-Tech, Running Start, or dual-credit courses through Central Washington University.

Some students opt to do all of their work from home,

coming on site only to meet with their consultant once a month, though most students enjoy the interaction of classes and workshops. Our classes are small and relationships are valued, with teachers and students knowing each other well and with parents included in the communication loop.

At HomeLink, we view parents as equals with certificated teachers in the education process. Consultants do not dictate what will be taught at home but act as advisors and guides. As with any publicly funded school, however, there are governmental regulations that must be met for families who participate in the program. These include weekly communication between student and consultant and regular meetings to ensure academic goals are being met. Each student is provided with a learning budget for purchasing curricula and learning materials; consultants facilitate purchases and ensure they are done in accordance with state regulations. The relationship between the consultant and the family is a close one as we work together for the student’s success.

We ask that all families whose students come on-site volunteer in some capacity at least 2 hours per month, per family. This not only enhances our program, but facilitates relationships between families. Volunteer activities may include participation in our PTO or planning teams, helping with book fairs or socials, helping in workshops, sorting Legos, cleaning the kitchen, donating supplies, shelving books, and many other options.

HomeLink is currently located in space leased from Southside Church, but exciting change is coming. The Richland School Board recently voted to build a new HomeLink facility on the south end of the Jason Lee Elementary campus (on Van Giesen Street in Richland).

The planning process is well under way and this new innovative school will be completed by the fall of 2015.

At HomeLink, an emphasis is placed on project-based learning and problem solving.

STEAM-link students have been working with the Hanford Reach Interpretive Center staff for the last two years to design a scaled model of the solar system centered around a “Sun” stage at the interpretive center. This May, the high school STEAM projects class launched a near-space satellite to the edge of space via a weather balloon. Students built and programmed capsules containing sensor arrays that measured variables like temperature, relative humidity, and radiation, and they recorded the entire adventure with a GoPro. You can see a video from this project on HomeLink’s website at www.rsd.edu/homelink.

HomeLink has sponsored clubs such as First Lego League, Future City and Destination Imagination.

It has a solar powered greenhouse that includes an aquaponic system, as well as a community garden.

HomeLink also works with the Academy of Children’s Theatre and other community groups to offer awesome educational opportunities and projects.

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The Solar Stage at the Hanford Reach Interpretive Center was envisioned and planned by STEAMLink students, and constructed by local artist Joseph Rastovich.

Students celebrate the successful recovery of their Near Space Satellite

Curious about Catholic School?

a look at St. Patrick’s School in Pasco

St Patrick’s Catholic Parish in Pasco is celebrating 105 years. This makes us the oldest parish in the Tri-City area. The Parish expanded to add St. Patrick’s School in 1951.

If you think about it, Catholic education is actually older than public education; some could even say that the Catholics invented the classroom experience as we know it. But there’s more to a Parochial (Catholic) school than just the uniforms and strict schedules, there’s a deep sense of community and faith intertwined into every aspect of a child’s education.

By Robert Ludwikoski, Principal, St. Patrick’s Catholic School So, back up a second, what is a Parish? Simply put, the Parish is the community of the church, it is everyone involved in St Patrick’s church. The church and its members support the school both financially and with their time and talents. Parents and grandparents continue to be involved in the school long after their own children have graduated and moved on. The Parish is the support network for the school and the students.

St Patrick’s has a very unique family; the Parish population is a very good reflection of the Catholic Church nationwide and includes people from all walks of life.

The church as a whole is very active, very celebratory, and very involved. The thing that unites all our parents at St. Patrick’s school is the faith and the experience of being part of a Parish as well as part of their education.

There’s more to a Catholic school than just the uniforms and strict schedules, there’s a deep sense of community and faith intertwined into every aspect of a child’s education.

Catholic schooling is built around the religious sacraments. Parents who choose to send their children to Parochial school understand and appreciate that the experience is based around practicing the Catholic faith. The entire school, staff, parents, and students, all celebrate Mass together. Each class period is begun with a prayer. Students begin to understand the faith at Kindergarten age, and, since living one’s beliefs is a lifelong endeavor, their faith journey runs alongside even the teachers and staff who continue to learn and strive to live the Catholic ideals and principles. The journey of our faith is a collective experience shared throughout all the ages and members of the school and parish.

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Catholic schooling is built around the principle that parents are the first educators- it’s the school’s job to help the parents teach and train their kids, not the other way around. Every once in awhile there’s this mentality that parents who send their kids to private, or Catholic, school have already done their part in the education process by enrolling their child in this private institution, “I’ve invested financially, now I don’t have to invest so much of my time.” Not so with St. Patrick’s. Parents are even more involved here than in a traditional school setting, and this is the way the school is designed. Parents are integral to every single aspect of the school and education could not run smoothly without parental involvement. Not only does this help families build stronger relationships within their immediate unit, but St. Patrick’s itself becomes a tighter knit family. It truly is the village where every parent is looking out for every child.

We are in a very unique period in the history of Catholic education, and St. Patrick’s School in particular. We are seeing very high enrollment. We have recently implemented new curriculum in our math programs, and we are rolling out a new reading curriculum this year.

Another exciting program we have recently implemented at St. Patrick’s is our pre-Kindergarten program. We are currently one of the few pre-Kindergaren programs in the Tri Cities. We still offer our Montessori based Preschool programs, but the Pre-Kinder class takes that education a step further to really prepare 3 and 4 year olds for exactly what they’ll be learning in Kindergarten.

Our students are routinely tested to measure progress against their peers in traditional schooling, and St. Patrick’s kids consistently outperform their peers in all areas. Catholic schools are constantly anticipating the needs of the next generation and working to educate kids to meet those needs. And since the Catholic education framework works to educate the whole child, we can teach right from wrong, morality, and a dedication to church and faith.

We are committed to keeping our class sizes small and we believe that kids really thrive with more one on one attention from their teachers. We are seeing dozens of families on our waiting lists and the only grades we even have openings are in middle school, second grade, and preschool. But once you’re here you are part of the family.

Family- if I had to sum up the entire Catholic school experience into one term I would use the word Family. It truly sums up what we are all about.

The close knit environment of our school creates life-long friendships and relationships. Just recently we held a 50 year class reunion at St. Patricks, the friendships made here at the school have truly lasted a lifetime. And that is our hope for all of our students: that, in addition to an exemplary education, every single kid knows they belong to something greater, the family that is St. Patrick’s school, the family of the Parish, and the community of Catholics throughout the world.

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Tri- City Family Event Calendar

Want to add an event to our calendar? Email us at Info@KidsPlayTC.com or tell us on facebook.com/kidsplaytc

Recurring Events:

(These events happen every week)

Mondays -Preschool Story Time, 10:30-11:15am, West Richland Branch of

the Mid-Columbia Libraries -Indoor Playground, 10-11:30am, ages 0-6, MCGA Cheer Gym, 8382 Gage Blvd. Kennewick, $5 -Ms. Kaitlin’s Preschool Story Time, 11-11:35am, West Pasco Branch of MCL -Indoor Playground, noon-1:30, ages 0-6, MCGA Gymnastics Gym, 1523 Fowler, Richland, $5 -Public Skate, 11:30am-2pm, Admission is $6 per person plus $2 skate rental, Helmets recommended for young children, Toyota Arena, Please remember that public skates are subject to change during Hockey season, so be sure to check the ice schedule by visiting www.yourtoyotaarena.com or calling 509-737-3718 -Home school Skate, 2:15-3:45pm, $5 for the first 2 children and $2 for each additional child, There is the option of a 20 minute lesson during this time for an additional $4, Occasionally ice time is lost due to the Americans practicing; but they have an e mail list you can be put on to stay informed, Toyota Arena

Tuesdays -Barnes and Noble Story Time, 10am, Columbia Center Mall

-KIDFIT, 10-10:30am, by the kids play area at Columbia Center Mall -Story Time with Ms. Maryska, 10-10:30am, Kennewick Branch of MCL -Indoor Playground, 10-11:30am and noon-1:30, ages 0-6, MCGA Cheer Gym, 8382 Gage Blvd. Kennewick, $5 -Ms. Becca’s Toddler Story Time, 11-11:25am, West Pasco Branch of MCL

Wednesdays -Pasco Farmer’s Market, 8am-12pm, corner of W. Columbia St. and

S. 4th Ave., *Please note the last Wednesday market of the season will be October 29th -Baby Story Time, 10am, Richland Public Library -Indoor Playground, 10-11:30am, ages 0-6, MCGA Cheer Gym, 8382 Gage Blvd. Kennewick, $5 -Stroller Walks, 10am-noon, Get out of the house and enjoy Richland’s great fall weather with your little one. Join a group of parents with young children as they take a walk with their strollers through Howard Amon Park. Parents meet in the Richland Community Center’s Lounge.

-Home school Skate, 10-11:30am, $5 for the first 2 children and $2 for each additional child, There is the option of a 20 minute lesson during this time for an additional $4, Toyota Arena (See Monday) -Public Skate, 11:30am-2pm, Admission is $6 per person plus $2 skate rental, Helmets recommended for young children, Toyota Arena, (see Monday) -Ms. Kaitlin’s Preschool Story Time, 11-11:35am, West Pasco Branch of the Mid-Columbia Libraries -Indoor Playground, noon-1:30, ages 0-6, MCGA Gymnastics Gym, 1523 Fowler, Richland, $5 -Paws to Read, 3-4pm, West Richland Branch of MCL

Thursdays -Story Time with Ms. Marta, 10-10:30am, Kennewick Branch of

the Mid-Columbia Libraries -Indoor Playground, 10-11:30am, ages 0-6, MCGA Cheer Gym, 8382 Gage Blvd. Kennewick, $5 -Cooper’s Corner, 2-5 pm, Columbia Center Mall -Kennewick Farmer’s Market, 4-8pm, Southridge Sports and Events Complex- South Parking Lot, *Please note the last market of the season will be October 30th

Fridays -Richland Farmer’s Market, 9am-1pm, The Parkway between Jad-

win & George Washington Way in Richland, *Please note the last market of the season will be October 31st -Indoor Playground, 10-11:30, ages 0-6, MCGA Gymnastics Gym, 1523 Fowler St. Richland, $5 -Indoor Playground, 10-11:30am, ages 0-6, MCGA Cheer Gym, 8382 Gage Blvd. Kennewick, $5 -Baby and Me Story Time, 10:30-11:00am, West Richland Branch of the Mid-Columbia Libraries -Public Skate, 11:30am-2pm, Admission is $6 per person plus $2 skate rental, Helmets recommended for young children, Toyota Arena, (See Monday for additional info) -Open Gym, 7-8:30pm, Ages 5-12, MCGA Gymnastics Gym, 1523 Fowler St. Richland, $5 per child

Saturdays -Pasco Farmer’s Market, 8am-1pm, corner of W. Columbia St. and

S. 4th Ave., *Please note the last Saturday market of the season will be November 1st -Family Story Time with Mr. Doug, 10-10:30am, Kennewick Branch of the Mid-Columbia Libraries -Ms. Mary’s Family Story Time, 11-11:30am, West Pasco Branch of the Mid-Columbia Libraries -J & S Dreamland Express Train Rides at Columbia Park, 1-5pm, $.50 kids and $1 adults, 15 minute ride through the east end of Columbia Park, train rides depart from the fishing pond area *Please note the last Saturday of the season will be September 27th

Sundays -J & S Dreamland Express Train Rides at Columbia Park, 1-5pm,

$.50 kids and $1 adults, 15 minute ride through the east end of Columbia Park, train rides depart from the fishing pond area *Please note the last Sunday of the season will be September 28th -Family Day Skate, 3-5pm, Admission at $10.00 for 4 people with skate rental of $2.00 per person (if required), Groups of 8 or more are a flat rate of $6.00 per person, Helmets recommended for young children, Toyota Arena, Please remember that public skates are subject to change during Hockey season, so be sure to check the ice schedule by visiting www.yourtoyotaarena.com or calling 509-737-3718

Fall Festivals!

Apple and Pumpkin Festival at Bill’s Berry Farm, Open from 10am-5pm the last two Saturdays in September…the 20th and 27th and the first four Fridays and Saturdays in October (please note they are closed Halloween, which falls on a Friday this year). Corn maze, train ride, petting zoo, pony rides, make your own cider, a straw climb, u-pick pumpkins, u-pick apples, camp fires, apple sling shots, live music, fresh donuts, caramel apples, BBQ and kids play areas. Festival admission is free; however, there are fees for some activities.

Also, parking is free on Fridays and $5 on Saturdays, as parking is limited. They greatly encourage you to carpool if you can. 3674 N. County Line Road, Grandview, for more info please visit www.billsberryfarm.com, call 509.882.3200 or connect with them on Facebook.

The Country Mercantile Harvest Festival begins October 1 and runs daily all month from 9am-6pm. As always there are U-Pick pumpkins and with $6.50 admission you get - Ride out to Pumpkin Patch, Corn Maze, Straw-Bale Maze and Pyramids, and Petting Zoo. Children 2 and under are free. Rides on weekdays start at 3pm. Saturdays and Sundays rides run ALL day. 232 Crestloch Road, Pasco, for more info please visit www.countrymercantile.com, call 509.545.2192 or connect with them on Facebook.

Middleton Six Sons Farm offers a corn maze, spud slingshot, hay rides, fire pits, a pumpkin cannon, many varieties of u-pick pumpkins, hot apple cider, coffee, cocoa, mini donuts, straw bales and corn stalk bundles along with many, many more items for sale in their farm store. Middleton Six Sons Farm is located at 1050 Kahlotus Rd. Pasco,for prices and more info visit www.middletonsixsonsfarms.com , call 509492-0116 or connect with them on Facebook.

Job’s Nursery Pumpkin Patch, their patch is open MondaySaturday 9am-5pm and Sundays 11am-4pm the entire month of October. Many types of U-Pick pumpkins, gourds and winter squashes all at .25 cents per pound. They also offer a 15 minute hayride for $2.50 all day on Saturdays and Sundays where they will take you through their 36 acre nursery so that you can enjoy the beautiful fall colors and trees. 4072 Columbia River Road, Pasco, for more info please visit www. jobsnursery.com, call 509.547.4843 or connect with them on Facebook.

Ray French Orchard and Pumpkin Patch is open for U-Pick Wednesday-Saturday from 9am-6pm. U-Pick Fuji Apples should be available between October 5-31 (depending on the weather and how many people come out to pick). The Fuji apples can be kept for at least 3-4 months depending on how you store them, so they are really good for applesauce and baking. They will also have a pumpkin patch with various sizes and colors of pumpkins along with an assortment of different squashes available including butternut, acorn, spaghetti and carnival. The pumpkin prices are not a flat fee and will vary depending on weight. Ray French Orchard is located at 921 Harvest Lane PR NE, Richland, you can reach them by phone at 509.627.3673 and you can also connect with them on Facebook.

Puddleducks Herb Farm has gourds, pumpkins and other veggies along with herbs, fresh eggs and duck eggs. They have tours available to anyone interested. Their classes are available in the fall season until the weather goes bad. Please check the website for a listing of classes. Classes can be just a family group, preschoolers, girl scouts, cub scouts, church groups, private school grades pre-K to middle school and even home school groups. They are open Mondays-Saturdays. Puddleducks Herb Farm is located at 1817 N. Road 76 in Pasco, for more info please visit www.puddleducksherbfarm.com, call 509.542.0489 or connect with them on Facebook.

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The Rest of the Calendar: Monday, September 1 – Labor Day Tuesday, September 2 -Preschool Story Time, 10-10:45am, Richland Public Library -Storytime - Let’s visit the Library, 11-11:30am, Kids ages 0-5, Keewaydin Park Branch of the Mid-Columbia Libraries join us for stories, songs, fingerplays and an activity.

Thursday, September 4 -Lego Club, 4-5pm, Kids ages 6-12, Calling all builders! Drop in and build your own creations based on a monthly theme!

Legos are provided by the library, but donations of Legos are always welcomed at the West Richland Branch of the MidColumbia Libraries -Kennewick Art Walk- 5-9p, Historic Downtown Kennewick Friday, September 5 -Toddler Story Time, 10-10:30am & 11-11:30am, Richland Public Library -Kids Fun Friday presented by Richland Parks and Recreation, There will be family fun games and activities from 6-8pm and then The Lego Movie will begin at dusk, bring your own lawn chairs and blankets, there will be food vendors on site but feel free to pack your own snacks, Badger Mountain Park (near the splash & play), Richland Saturday, September 6 -2014 Parade of Homes, 9am-5pm, tickets are $10, This is a showcase of new homes located throughout the Tri-Cities area-each one unique in design and style, featuring the latest in architectural trends and the best in workmanship. For more info please visit www.hbatc.com -Kidgits Back To School, 10am-noon, Columbia Center Mall, Simon Kidgit members will receive a free jumbo pen plus there will be back to school themed crafts and activities, coupons, prizes, giveaways and more.

Sunday, September 7 – Grandparent’s Day 2014 Parade of Homes, 9am-5pm (See September 6 for full details) Tuesday, September 9 -Preschool Story Time, 10-10:45am, Richland Public Library -Preschool Hour - “Things that Go”, 10:30-11:30am, Kids ages 0-5, Learn through play with a short story time and then exploration through some interactive activities. Help your child develop skills they will need to start kindergarten, such as patterns, sorting, colors, music and more at the West Richland Branch of the Mid-Columbia Libraries Wednesday, September 10 -Preschool Hour: I Spy Shapes, 10-11am, Kids ages 0-5, Help your child learn through play while enjoying a short story time and then exploring some fun interactive activities all about shapes at the Kennewick Branch of the Mid-Columbia Libraries.

-Car Seat Inspections at Washington State Patrol office, 10am2pm, call (509)734-7029 for an appointment -2014 Parade of Homes, 1-7pm (See September 6 for full details) Thursday, September 11 -2014 Chefs on Parade, 5-9pm, tickets are $40, Twelve new homes, complete with beautiful kitchens, provide a feast for the eyes before twelve of the area’s best chefs provide a taste of their signature dishes. Six homes and chefs will be featured on September 11 and the remaining six will be featured on September 12. For more info please visit www.hbatc.com -9/11 Memorial Event, 6:45pm-7:30pm, Southridge Sports and Events Complex WTC Twin Towers Memorial Area Friday, September 12 -Toddler Story Time, 10-10:30am & 11-11:30am, Richland Public Library -2014 Chefs on Parade, 5-9pm (See September 11 for full details)

Saturday, September 13 -2014 Parade of Homes, 9am-5pm (See September 6 for full details) -4th Annual Golf Buddies Miniature Golf Tournament presented by Ignite Youth Mentoring, Kids ages 8-16 years, 9am-noon, Canyon Lakes Golf Course, Includes: 9 holes on the putting green, a longest marshmallow drive, closest to the pin contests, lunch, T-shirt, gift bag and prizes! For more info or to register please visit www.igniteyouthmentoring.com or call Ashlee at 948-3143.

Sunday, September 14 -2014 Parade of Homes, 9am-5pm (See September 6 for full details) -YMCA presents the 10th Annual Parent/Child Golf Tournament, The 9-hole Tournament with a 1:30pm start time for children ages 7+ with a parent, cost is $50/pair. There will also be an 18-hole Putting Tournament with a 12:30 start time for children ages 2+ with a parent, cost is $10/pair. Registration fees include a Tee-off Goodie Bag, Tournament Gift, Special Hole Contests, Dinner with Awards, and Prizes by Age Category. For more information or to register online please visit www.ymcatricities.org or call 509-374-1908 Thursday, September 18 -Elementary Adventures!, 4-5pm, Kids ages 6-12, West Richland Branch of the Mid-Columbia Libraries Friday, September 19 -Toddler Story Time, 10-10:30am & 11-11:30am, Richland Public Library -Women’s Expo, 11am-8pm, $7.00 per person and valid for both show days, children 10 and under are free, parking is also free and it is being held in a new location this year – the Three Rivers Convention Center, Kennewick -38th Annual Sausage Fest, 5pm-midnight, Bring your family and friends and enjoy great local foods, indoor and outdoor biergartens, games for all ages, handmade arts & crafts, and live music and entertainment. Admission is free, Christ the King School, Richland Saturday, September 20 Women’s Expo, 10am-5pm (See September 19 for full details) 38th Annual Sausage Fest, 11am-midnight (See September 19 for full details) Sunday, September 21 Mid-Columbia Libraries free showing of the movie “Lincoln” (PG-13), 7pm, Fairchild Cinemas, Pasco

Friday, September 26 -25th Annual Great Prosser Balloon Rally, balloons are scheduled to launch at sunrise (6:15am) from the Prosser Airport on Friday, September 26, Saturday, September 27 and Sunday, September 28 (weather permitting). A few of the weekend activities include Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Launches, Night Glow, Harvest Festival, Farmers Market, and last but not least Caren Mercer-Andreason Street Painting Festival. Parking and admission are free all weekend. For a detailed schedule of events please visit www.prosserballoonrally.org -Sacajawea Heritage Days, 9am-3pm, Sacajawea State Park, Pasco, admission is $10 per car, The purpose of this festival is to learn about and re-enact the life and skills of the early American explorers, the Native American cultures they found along the way, and the lives of the early settlers. There will be a bonfire with stories and songs on Saturday night. For a full schedule of events please visit www.mctama.org/sacajaweaheritage-days -C3 Children’s Consignment Sale, 9-4pm, New and gently used children’s items; clothes, toys, books and games, strollers, bikes, furniture, baby items and more! Many items are offered at ½ off on Saturday. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Safe Harbor Crisis Nursery, Admission is one canned or nonperishable food item for Second Harvest, for more info please visit www.c3kidssale.weebly.com -Toddler Story Time, 10-10:30am & 11-11:30am, Richland Public Library Saturday, September 27 -C3 Children’s Consignment Sale, 9-noon (See September 26 for full details) -25th Annual Great Prosser Balloon Rally (See September 26 for full details) -Sacajawea Heritage Days, 10am-7:30pm (See September 26 for full details) -Signature Chefs Auction “Venetian Masquerade” presented by and benefitting the March of Dimes will be a tribute to the outstanding culinary talent in the region with selected wineries and prominent chefs. This black-tie optional event begins at 6pm and will include a silent & live auction and the evening will end with dancing to the music of Primitive Circus! Red Lion, Pasco, For more information please visit www.marchofdimes.com/washington/events/events_11885.html Sunday, September 28 -25th Annual Great Prosser Balloon Rally (See September 26 for full details) Thursday, October 2 -Lego Club, 4-5pm, Kids ages 6-12, Calling all builders! Drop in and build your own creations based on a monthly theme!

Legos are provided by the library, but donations of Legos are always welcomed at the West Richland Branch of the MidColumbia Libraries -Kennewick Art Walk- 5-9p, Historic Downtown Kennewick Friday, October 3 -Fall Home Show presented by the Home Builders Association of Tri-Cities, free parking, adult admission is $5, kids 16 and under are free, free daily seminars with admission. Visit www.hbatc.com for more info -3rd Annual Heart for the Fatherless benefit dinner and auction, Three Rivers Convention Center, doors open at 6pm, dinner served at 7pm, Proceeds benefit foster, adoption and orphan care. For tickets and more information please visit www.heartforthefatherless.org 27

Saturday, October 25 -YMCA presents Trick-or-Treat on the Trail, 9am-noon, Badger Mountain Trailhead Park; Enjoy a family-friendly hike up Badger Mountain while dressed up in your favorite costumes!

Children of all ages can trick-or-treat for healthy goodies along the trail at various trick-or-treat stations. After the hike, there will be a Harvest Party which includes games and activities for the whole family to enjoy! This event is FREE! -Kidgits Halloween, 10am-noon, Columbia Center Mall Monday, October 27 -Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (the Broadway Musical), 7:30pm, Windermere Theatre in the Toyota Center, Kennewick, tickets can be purchased at the Toyota Center Box Office or online at www.ticketmaster.com Friday, October 3 -Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey present: Super Circus Heroes, 7pm, there will be amazing elephants, horses, camels and more alongside astonishing acrobats, awe-inspiring aerialists and some over-the-top clowns that will have audiences in stitches. Toyota Center, Kennewick, to purchase circus tickets or for more information please visit www.yourtoyotacenter.com or the Toyota Center Box Office Saturday, October 4 -Fall Home Show (See October 3 for full details) -Mid-Columbia Duck Race, 10am-2pm, Ducks launch at noon, Admission is $5/Ticket, Columbia Park, Kennewick, for more information please find the Mid-Columbia Duck Race (Tri-Cities, WA) on Facebook -Rockets!, 10:30-12:30pm, 3...2...1... BLAST OFF!! Interested in rockets? Build your very own rocket and see how high it can reach. In this class, students will learn some basics of rocketry as well as some history. Best of all, you will get to take your rocket home and launch it over and over again!

All supplies for your initial launch are included. To ensure delivery of supplies, must enroll by September 25th. For more information and to register please visit www.richlandparksandrec.com -Ringling Bros & Barnum & Bailey Circus, 11:30am, 3:30pm & 7pm (See October 3 for full details) Sunday, October 5 -Fall Home Show (See October 3 for full details) -Ringling Bros & Barnum & Bailey Circus, 1pm & 5pm (See October 3 for full details) Wednesday, October 8 -Car Seat Inspections at Washington State Patrol office, 10am-2pm, call (509)734-7029 for an appointment Monday, October 13 – Columbus Day Saturday, October 18 -Harvest Bazaar, 9am -3pm, Southridge Sports and Events Complex Pavilion, 2901 Southridge Blvd.

Friday, October 24 -Fall Carnival, 6:30-8pm, Calling all goblins, ghouls, princesses and pirates of all ages! Richland Parks and Recreation annual Fall Carnival. There will be games, a haunted maze, spooky hayride, Big Top the Clown, face painting, balloons, karaoke and tons of candy and prizes! Dress up for the Best Contest and receive a free picture for each contes28Costume tant, for more info visit www.richlandparksandrec.com

Thursday, October 30 -Disney on Ice presents Let’s Celebrate, 7pm, Join Mickey, Minnie and Friends in a magical medley of holidays, celebrations and festivities from around the globe. Disney friends making an appearance will include Cinderella, Ariel, Tiana, Lilo & Stitch, Woody, Jessie, Buzz Lightyear and more. Toyota Center, Kennewick, tickets can be purchased at the Toyota Center Box Office or online at www.ticketmaster.com Friday, October 31 – Halloween Saturday, November 1 -Disney on Ice presents Let’s Celebrate, 11:30am, 3:30pm & 7pm (See October 30 for full details) Sunday, November 2 – Daylight Savings Time – Don’t forget to turn your clocks back one hour tonight!

-Disney on Ice presents Let’s Celebrate, 1pm & 5pm (See October 30 for full details) Thursday, November 6 -Lego Club, 4-5pm, Kids ages 6-12, Calling all builders! Drop in and build your own creations based on a monthly theme! Legos are provided by the library, but donations of Legos are always welcomed at the West Richland Branch of the Mid-Columbia Libraries -Kennewick Art Walk- 5-9p, Historic Downtown Kennewick Friday, November 7 -Custer’s 19th Annual Christmas Arts & Crafts Show, A festive atmosphere that features over 150 professional artists and crafters from across the U.S filling the TRAC with unique handcrafted items and gourmet foods, 10am-8pm, TRAC Center, Pasco, free parking, one time admission of $6 gets you in all 3 days, kids 12 and under free.

Saturday, November 8 -Veteran’s Day Parade, 9-11am, Van Giesen Street, Downtown West Richland -Custer’s 19th Annual Christmas Arts & Crafts Show, 10am6pm. (See November 7 for full details) Sunday, November 9 Custer’s 19th Annual Christmas Arts & Crafts Show, 10am4pm. (See November 7 for full details) Tuesday, November 11 – Veteran’s Day Hug a veteran and say Thank You! Wednesday, November 12 Car Seat Inspections at Washington State Patrol office, 10am2pm, call (509)734-7029 for an appointment

Friday, November 14 -Christmas Moments, 10am-7pm, This gift fair brings exhibitors from all over the NW together to provide shoppers with one-of-a-kind gifts (both hand crafted and commercial) to help you check everyone off of your Christmas shopping list.

They have also partnered with Toys For Tots again, so please bring an unwrapped toy (if you desire to donate). Photos with Santa also available. Benton County Fairgrounds, Kennewick, free parking, one time admission of $6 gets you in all 3 days, kids 12 and under free.

Friday, November 28 -Christmas Trees on the Farm at Bill’s Berry Farm, 10am-7pm.

Fresh cut Christmas trees, handmade wreaths or garlands.

Caroling hayride for donation to a local charity, pet the goats Gus and Gertie, enjoy a bonfire with hot cocoa or cider and vanilla sugar donuts. 3674 N. County Line Road, Grandview.

Saturday, November 15 -Tri-Cities Community Holiday Parade, 8:30am, Columbia Center Mall -Christmas Moments, 10am-6pm. (See November 14 for full details)

Special Thank you to:

Sunday, November 16 -Christmas Moments, 11am-4pm. (See November 14 for full details) Thursday, November 27 – Thanksgiving -Turkey Trot, Columbia Park, Registration begins at 7:30am and the race begins at 9am, Events include: 5K run/1 mile walk, hot/cold beverages, opening ceremonies, race warm-up, kids area and prizes for top finishers, you can pre-register for the race online and there will be special times available to pick up t-shirts and race bibs before race day, if you have any questions about Turkey Trot please visit www.redcross.org or call the Benton-Franklin Red Cross at 509-783-6195

Saturday, November 29 -Christmas Trees on the Farm at Bill’s Berry Farm (See November 28 for full details)

The Kennewick School District and Transportation Department

Special Thanks to all our kid models:

Elliot, Jayden, Carson, Eli, Aubrey, Ainzlee. and Baylee Keep reading- There’s one more page! -->

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More Cool Stuff To Do:

-Family Friendly Tennis, Tuesdays, 6-7:30pm, Sept.9-Oct.14, High-energy format where families learn and play tennis together. Pricing starts at $25 per session for a family of four or less. Sign up now at www.pnw.usta.com/richland

Kennewick Parks and Recreation Youth Flag Football (ages 5-10)-Saturdays from Sept 20th through October 25th. http:// www.go2kennewick.com/ for more info

Kennewick Parks and Recreation First Kicks Soccer (ages 2-5)-Tuesdays SeptemPlaytime Fitness, Instructor: Jessica Fore- ber 16th through October 21th Super Soccer Starz (ages 5-8)-Saturdays man (Certified Personal Trainer), Tuesdays and Thursdays in September, October September 27 through November 1 and November, 8:30-9:30am, This 1 hour http://www.go2kennewick.com/ for more info class focuses on body weight and resistance training plus cardio, while holding Start Smart Sports Development, Wednesand interacting with your child. Children days, 3:30-4:30pm, Sept.24-Oct.29, Ages ages 6 months to 2 years only, for more 3-5, This program prepares parents and info visit www.richlandparksandrec.com children for organized sports, in a fun non-threatening environment. Start Smart Kennewick Parks and Recreation Youth was developed by top motor skill develBasketball League (grades 1-6) –Practices will be twice a week M-F starting on opment specialists in the field of youth sports. For more information and to regisDecember 1 and games will be played on ter please visit www.richlandparksandrec.

Saturdays (Jan 17- Feb 28)Visit com http://www.go2kennewick.com/

Challenger MiniKickers, Instructor: British Soccer Challenger, Sept. 8-Oct.27, 3 after school time frames to choose from, Children ages 2 to 5 years old. Classes take place at Leslie Groves Park, Soccer Field, 51 Saint Street, For more info visit www. richlandparksandrec.com YMCA Basketball! Season runs October 25-December 13, all games are held on Saturdays. (No games Thanksgiving weekend.) Registration Dates: Team/Coach Registration: September 15-19, YMCA Member Registration: September 22-26, Community Registration: September 29Oct 3, For more information call 509-3741908 or visit www.ymcatricities.org Indoor Soccer, Season runs January 16-March 1, games and practices held on Saturdays and Sundays. Registration Dates: Team/Coach Registration: December 1-5, YMCA Member Registration: December 8-12, Community Registration: December 15-January 2, For more information or to register please call 509-374-1908 or visit www.ymcatricities.org Toddler Short Sports, This partnership program with the Pasco Parks and Rec is an exciting introduction to a variety of sports for your 2 ½ - 4 year old. Children will be introduced to soccer, t-ball, track & field, volleyball, basketball and more!

Classes held at Pasco City Hall September 11-October 16 & October 30–December 11 or at Pasco’s MLK Center October 28– December 9, For more information or to register please call 509-374-1908 or visit www.ymcatricities.org ‘Mummy and Me’ & ‘Daddy and Me’ Learn To Skate and Beginner Hockey Classes, ages 3-5 years, Fridays (tentatively) from 12-12:45 pm. Class will look like: meet and greet for 10 minutes, 20 minute lesson for child and parent, and 15 minutes of play time which may include shooting the puck for the hockey players and games for the Learn to Skate crowd. Please visit www.yourtoyotaarena.com to enroll Learn To Skate and Beginner Hockey Classes at Toyota Arena, From beginner classes to advance figure skating and hockey classes. Helmets required on children 6 years and under! 20 minute lesson + 40 minute practice. Don’t just watch, family members can skate for just $3.00 per person including skates (no lesson). Sessions on Mondays (5:45-6:45pm) or Thursdays (5:45-6:45pm). visit www.yourtoyotaarena. com to enroll.