Lincoln Kids Magazine Summer 2022

Summer 2022

Year 29, Issue 114

larger than life new murals bring new color to the town page 8

thank you, lynn

a big cheer for our city parks and the man with the plan page 22

up, up, & away hit the heights with summer learning at sylvan page 2

COVER SPONSOR

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Toddlers, infants, and expecting parents Help your child prepare for school success with: • Family support and coaching at home, or • Classroom education at our early education center Families receiving SNAP benefits are eligible for Head Start!

2301 O Street 2615 O Street 1821 K Street

Call (402) 875-9328 or scan the QR code to GET STARTED!

Summer 2O22

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Dear Lincoln Kids Readers, I’m writing to you on the Thursday evening before this edition will be sent to the printer. As we have been editing this week, I felt such a sense of pride over what my team has created for our community of readers.

In this edition, you’ll learn about art murals in the University Place Neighborhood, how Sylvan is supporting parents and teachers, the welcoming new church service for families at Christ United Methodist Church, and the exciting BMX program for kids and adults in our city.

As I watch my own kids try new activities each year, I am thankful that Lincoln has so much to offer. My daughter, Ellie, tried debate for the first time her sophomore year and it’s been her favorite high school activity to date. Did you know that there are even debate camps right here in Nebraska? You can learn more about those on page 30.

With summer right around the corner, we mapped out (literally) all of the awesome public swimming pools in Lincoln. And, while I’m on the topic of city pools, I hope you read our tribute to Lynn Johnson, our dedicated Parks Director who will be retiring in June.

Thank you all for supporting our team at Lincoln Kids and for sharing your stories with us.

THE LK TEAM

With gratitude,

Christine Weeks, Owner / Publisher

Who’s on the Cover?

Smart, spunky, and totally sweet, Thalia Dunn is our featured Lincoln Kid for our Summer 2022 edition. Read more about Thalia on page 2.

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What’s Inside?

Faith for All Families

There’s Something Special About Sylvan

Pedal to the Medal

Christ United Methodist Church

Star City BMX

4

6

2

Why Choose Music Lessons?

Larger Than Life The New Murals at University Place

Marble Music Studios

8

10

Thank You, Lynn

Make a Splash!

Pools in Lincoln

16

Celebrating Lincoln’s Parks Director

Little Free Pantries

Dignity: Tribes in Transition

22

28

32

Sign Up for our weekly e-newsletter!

Cover photograph by Kathy Plunkett.

Lincoln Kids Directory

Stay Tuned for Our Next Edition!

37

August 2022

lincolnkidsinc.com | 1

There’s Something Special About Sylvan “It was a lot,” agreed Shaun and Cheryl Dunn, about finding the balance between work, parenting, and teaching due to remote learning.

They both work in the sciences, appreciate the importance of education, and were therefore better prepared than most to address the athome educational challenges all parents faced with the onset of the pandemic. However, they knew they needed more help.

Their daughter, Thalia, is a second-grader at Hill and receives extra instruction at Sylvan.

She has a love for reptiles and a whole lot of energy. Like many other children, it was hard for Thalia to respond to her parents as teachers. In hopes of easing some stress and giving Thalia the confidence boost she needed, this family was in search of a tutor. Instead, they came across Sylvan’s website and a powerful review from a parent in a similar situation. And while her school was telling them that she would eventually catch up, Shaun and Cheryl knew it would require more than that for Thalia to thrive, which is what they wanted, and that’s where Sylvan came in.

After Thalia took an easy, comfortable assessment at Sylvan, her parents’ concerns were validated. This assessment targets a student’s skills gap, as well as strengths and behaviors. Following this assessment, directors, teachers, and parents all work together to create personal learning plans for every student, to not only help them find success academically, but outside of the classroom as well.

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“Our hands-on approach and access to toptier technology allows students to visualize how things make sense,” says Sylvan teacher, Macy Maschka.

With teachers who value working with students one-to-one, and administration involved in the entire process, Sylvan provides an environment that sets students up for success and makes them feel excited to participate in school again.

“Even on days Thalia doesn’t want to go, she comes home refreshed, energized, and happy she went,” Cheryl says about Sylvan. “She’s now comfortable reading books to us, and her teachers at school say she’s eager to learn and radiates confidence in the classroom.”

Improving test scores, grades, and skills with fun and smiles is what Sylvan does best. Results matter and are guaranteed at Sylvan! Are you ready to schedule your child’s assessment yet?

Study Skills Bootcamp Learn time management, set short and long term goals, explore learning styles, and practice note-taking and test-taking to be at your best heading into the next school year.

July 25 - 29 • 1 - 3 PM

Say YES to Summer Camps and say no to summer learning loss.

Beginning Reading Camp Are you learning to read and do you love summer camp? Enjoy all the fun of camp with reading and writing readiness at Sylvan’s Beginning Reading Camp.

June 6 - 10 • 1 - 3 PM

10 hours of camps for $299

Book today at 402.817.3947

Meet Our Lincoln Team 3900 Yankee Hill Rd #113 Lincoln, NE 68516 sylvanlearning.com

Wes

Haley

Missy

Faith for All Families New Family-Oriented Worship Service at Christ United Methodist Church Church is not one-size-fits-all. That’s why at Christ United we have launched a new Sunday morning experience geared toward families who want to grow in faith together in interactive ways. This gathering is shorter than your average service, about 30 minutes, and provides a more relaxed, casual atmosphere where children and adults can learn, worship, and build relationships together.

Each Sunday starts with a short music time led by our music director Colt, includes a story from scripture and a brief interactive reflection by Pastor Richard or Pastor Beth, and ends with hands-on activities for kids led by our program director, Kim. Adults are invited to join their children in the week’s activity or to relax and enjoy conversation with the pastors and other parents over coffee. Families will also come away with resources for putting faith into action at home during the week.

This service, like other activities at Christ United, is an inclusive space that welcomes and affirms families of all kinds as we seek to help our community experience, celebrate, and cultivate diversity.

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We’re especially passionate about helping parents raise kids who are socially conscious and equipped to carry out our Church’s mission to act inclusively, serve others, do justice, and seek God.

We’re also mindful that parents are the primary influencers in the lives of their children, so equipping you to have conversations about faith, parenting, and spiritual practices with your family is important to us.

PA S TO R

PA S TO R

Richard Randolph

Beth Graverholt

We hope you’ll join us for this fun new service!

For more information about Christ United, visit christumclinc.org or call us at (402) 489-9618.

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Pedal to the Medal Lincoln’s Youth BMX Community Continues to Grow When Mackenzie and Anthony Slivka of Lincoln decided it was time for their son Adrian to learn to ride his bike, he was five years old. Adrian was hesitant like many kids and not very interested at first. After a few months, Adrian’s parents decided it was time to ditch the training wheels and let him loose.

They never could have guessed what would happen next.

Two days after the training wheels had made their departure, the Slivka family was enjoying a bike ride on the MoPac Trail. Suddenly, Adrian just hopped up on his bike seat with his feet and did his first trick!

“We were both stunned,” said Anthony, with pride.

“Mackenzie and I looked at each other and knew we needed to get him into a cycling club, but we didn’t know exactly what that looked like.”

Visiting with their friend, the Slivkas learned about Lincoln’s BMX track and they decided to give it a shot. “We were a little nervous to try a new sport, just like any parent or kid would be,” said Mackenzie. “But you never know unless you try.”

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Within a week, they loaded up the family and Adrian’s bike in their SUV and made their way to a track near Cornhusker Highway.

“Everyone at the track welcomed us and showed us the ropes,” Mackenzie added. “There was definitely a lot we needed to learn but the other parents gave us tips to be successful and enjoy this sport.”

Initially, Adrian started out by riding several times a week with a second-hand bike, borrowed gear, and a desire to compete.

“I didn’t know when we started that adults could practice and compete too,” said Anthony. “I love to be active and ride, so shortly after Adrian joined the BMX club, I got involved as well.”

Fast forward ten bikes, four helmets, many weekends traveling to BMX competitions around the country, and several trophies later, the Slivkas will tell you that they love being a part of BMX. And now, Anthony, Adrian, and little sister Amaya are on the Cycle Works team!

Get Started in BMX If you are interested in Bicycle Motocross (BMX), Star City BMX is ready to help you. BMX racing is a sport for the whole family, whether you’re a rider or spectator.

Riders from ages 5 to 65 regularly compete — all you need is a bike, determination, and a USA BMX track.

Bike We recommend a bike that has no more than a 20’’ wheel diameter, the allowable limit in the Novice (or beginner) class. Many of our youngest riders even start off on bikes with smaller tires, but whatever you ride around the neighborhood will work to start. If you have a little one under age 5 who rides a balance bike, bring them to the track and they can practice for free.

Practices & Races • Practices are on Wednesdays from 6 - 8 p.m.

• Races are on Sundays. Registration begins at 1 p.m. Racing starts around 2 p.m.

• The racing season runs from April to November, weather permitting.

What to Wear While Racing • Long sleeve shirt • Long pants • Helmet: USA BMX highly recommends a full-face helmet “I can’t get enough of BMX! - Adrian, age 7

• Enclosed shoes: tennis shoes are recommended Loaner bikes and gear are available at Star City BMX so don’t feel pressured to purchase equipment right away.

Come see us at the registration area and we’ll help you get started.

Star City BMX 101 Charleston, Lincoln, NE starcitybmx.com Find our Star City BMX group on Facebook!

lincolnkidsinc.com | 7

Larger Than Life Discover Lincoln’s Newest Murals in University Place Neighborhood University Place Neighborhood is the perfect summer destination for the whole family – lined with local businesses, coffee, and delicious food within walking distance, and the twinkling LUX Art Alley, which is open to the public for painting.

This neighborhood is now home to a collection of world class murals that liven the buildings at every turn. If you’re looking for free fun to get the kiddos or the whole family out of the house, then look no further!

The seven “Emerge LNK” murals were created back in September 2021 by local and national artists, and even one international artist, as part of the Emerge LNK Mural + Street Art Festival.

This project, hosted by LUX Center for the Arts, was intended to bring joy to the community and uplift small businesses as they emerged from the pandemic together.

Through their murals, the seven artists — Shawn Dunwoody, Oria Simonini, Ana Marietta, Eder Muniz, Nolan Tredway, Focus Smith, and Watie White — depict portraits of local activists, display the beauty and healing power of nature, and celebrate the spirit of the neighborhood. There is truly something for everyone to enjoy! The murals make perfect backdrops for family portraits, TikTok videos, or inspiration for your sketchbook.

Murals are known to have an overwhelmingly positive impact on communities – they

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beautify otherwise overlooked walls, create neighborhood pride, increase economic opportunities for local businesses, inspire passersby, and much more. By making the streets more walkable and drawing positive attention to the neighborhood, University Place has since become a destination within Lincoln.

Through this collection of murals, people of all ages and walks of life can enjoy an engaging art experience for years to come.

Ways to Engage with the Emerge LNK Murals 1

Enjoy a FREE walking tour every second Saturday of the month. Tours begin at 10:30 a.m. at Mo Java Café, 2649 N 48th Street, and last approximately 45 minutes. Registration is encouraged but not required: www.luxcenter.org/ emergelnktour.

2

Pick up an Emerge LNK Mural Map next time you stop by the LUX and explore the murals on your own time with friends and family.

3

Use one or multiple murals as a backdrop for a social media video or portrait session.

4

Share and tag @emergelnk for a chance to be featured on social media.

We invite you to come experience this hidden gem in Lincoln!

lincolnkidsinc.com | 9

Why Choose Music Lessons?

BY J U L I A M A R B L E , O W N E R , M A R B L E M U S I C S T U D I O S

As a professional violinist, studio owner, and now mom of a young musician, I know firsthand the many amazing benefits of playing a musical instrument. Here are some of my top reasons to choose music lessons when looking for an extracurricular activity for your family.

Routine! Yep, that’s right. Playing a musical instrument requires daily practice that can help develop positive habits. When starting to practice with my daughter, we made a goal to practice for five minutes every day. We were consistent. Now, she looks forward to her piano time because it is a part of our daily routine. I hope she can use that same approach with anything she wants to learn in her life.

Confidence! Attending weekly lessons gives students the opportunity to develop their own selfconfidence when working with their teacher. Recitals and performances also allow students to practice stage presence and leadership skills that can transcend into public speaking and future job interviews. I love seeing students grow in their confidence year after year in our studio recitals! It always amazes me how comfortable they look on stage.

Creativity! Music allows us to discover our own inner creativity. We explore so much more than notes and rhythms in music lessons. We get to explore feelings and emotions. We get to take chances and improvise. Playing music gives us the freedom to be innovative and think outside

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of the box. These are all skills that help us grow in our careers and relationships.

Empathy! As Dr. Suzuki said, “First character, then ability.” Playing music gives us opportunities to develop a sensitive and compassionate heart. Music can help us to learn more about kindness and diversity. It gives us a chance to work for positive change in the world.

“Thirty years ago I had my very first violin lesson and I still enjoy playing today.”

- Julia Marble

Music has always been a special part of my life and now I love getting to share it with my own children. I am thankful for all the ways that music has benefited different areas of my work and relationships. I hope that it can do the same for you and your family.

Children's choirs for boys and girls in 2nd - 8th grade

Advanced and Beginning level singers accepted! No audition required.

2022-2023 registration open now! www.NebraskaChildrensChoir.org 402-202-0565 nebraskachildrenschoir@gmail.com

– Auditions for –

2022-23 Choirs for grades 3-12

August 2022 Appointment required

Register for a time at:

lincolnboyschoir.org or call 402-499-4446

It’s more than a getaway.

It’s where the follow you home.

memories

All across Arbor Day Farm, you’ll find the makings for the perfect summer excursion.

Explore 260 acres with an outdoor hike, play in the trees at the Tree Adventure, ride the ZipKrooz, visit a mansion — you can even spend the night at Lied Lodge.

Learn more and purchase tickets at arbordayfarm.org.

Nebraska City, NE 800-546-5433 arbordayfarm.org lincolnkidsinc.com | 11

Need NeedFinancial Financial Coaching Coachingfor for the theFuture?

Future?

We offer We offer a free a free six-month six-month financial financial coaching coaching program program to those to those whowho qualify. qualify.

TakeTake advantage advantage of weekly of weekly financial financial coaching coaching trainings trainings and and extra extra one-on-one one-on-one support support to to develop develop skillsskills to save, to save, build/improve build/improve credit, credit, reduce reduce debt, debt, create create a budget, a budget, and and more. more.

Contact Contact us to usapply! to apply!

(402)(402) 875-9345 875-9345 communityactionatwork.org/ communityactionatwork.org/ financial-coaching financial-coaching

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Ages 2-18 | Register online at intermixdance.com 2755 Jamie Lane, Ste, 7 | 402-904-6753 14 |

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Photography credit Jennifer Schultz

$UMMER FUN IS AT LOST IN FUN! • Ballocity Multi-level • 100ʼs of balls!

• Inflatables Try our giant jump pad!

• Playsets Climb, crawl, swing, & slide!

• Laser Maze Secret spy stealth & skills!

• Foam Pit Jump in & party-hardy!

• Arcade Games Massive selection!

• Toddler Zone Playsets, ball pit & more!

• Snack Bar Meals, snacks, & great prices!

• FUNtastic Birthday Parties, too!

GIFT CARDS MAKE GREAT GIFTS!

TEXT LOSTINFUN

$1 ofE f ANY SIZ

Icee

With coupon. Only one per family/group, per day.

Not valid with other offers.

Expires 08/31/22. LK

15th & Yankee Hill

402-261-0440

TO

71441

TO RECEIVE MOBILE COUPONS!

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LOSTINFUN.COM lincolnkidsinc.com | 15

When it’s too HOT outside, we know there is one thing that helps battle the heat better than anything else. The pool! Heading down to the pool for a couple of hours is a dream day for most kids.

We have compiled a list of all the public pools in Lincoln for you and your family to visit this summer!

Family programming and free adult water fitness classes are listed online, lincoln.ne.gov/pools.

Trago Sprayground N 22nd St & U St Splash Pad • FREE

May 30 - September 5 Daily: 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

O Highlands Aquatic Center 5511 NW 12th St Diving Board, Slide, Spray Feature, Zero Entry Pool

May 28 - August 14 Monday - Friday: 1:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Saturday - Sunday: 1:00 to 6:00 p.m.

402-441-7800

A Arnold Heights Neighborhood Pool 4000 NW 46th St Diving Boards, Separate Wading Pool, Slide

May 28 - August 14 Daily: 1:00 to 6:00 p.m.

402-441-7829 Van Dorn

Season Pass Costs Neighborhood Pools $208 for Family Pass | $73 for Youth | $96 for Adults Star City Shores Aquatic Center $243 for Family Pass | $88 for Youth | $110 for Adults Highlands / University Place Aquatics Centers $231 for Family Pass | $82 for Youth | $106 for Adults Low Income Admissions Rate Cards are distributed through local agencies. Cards are not distributed/available at the or aquatics office.

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Irvingdale Neighborhood Pool 1900 Van Dorn St Diving Boards, Slides, Separate Wading Pool

May 28 - August 14 Daily: 1:00 to 6:00 p.m.

402-441-7828

27th

48th

56th

70th

84th

Belmont Neighborhood Pool 12th & Manatt St

Ballard Neighborhood Pool 3901 N 66th St

Slide, Diving Boards, Separate Wading Pool

Diving Boards, Slide, Separate Wading Pool

May 28 - August 14 Daily: 1:00 to 6:00 p.m.

402-441-7826

May 28 - August 14 Daily: 1:00 to 6:00 p.m.

402-441-7898

University Place “UNI” Aquatic Center 2000 N 48th St Diving Board, Slide, Spray Features, Zero Entry Pool

May 28 - August 14 Monday - Friday: 1:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Saturday - Sunday: 1:00 to 6:00 p.m.

402-441-7834

Woods Neighborhood Pool & Splash Pad 33rd & J Street 25 Meter Warm-Up Pool, Gated Splash Pad, Diving Well

May 28 - August 14 Daily: 1:00 to 6:00 p.m.

402-441-7782

Eden Neighborhood Pool 4400 Antelope Creek Diving Board, Slides, Separate Wading Pool

May 28 - August 14 Daily: 1:00 to 6:00 p.m.

402-441-7827

Star City Shores Aquatic Center 4375 S 33rd Ct Lap Lanes, Slides, Water Playground, Zero Entry Pool

May 28 - August 14 Monday - Friday: 12:30 to 7:00 p.m.

Saturday - Sunday: 1:00 to 7:00 p.m.

402-441-7847

lincolnkidsinc.com | 17

Find a friend, grab a pencil, fill in the blanks, and roll with laughter!

There is something for

in the Lincoln, (NAME OF FRIEND)

Nebraska summertime! Whether you are looking for all day activities or you want to

your evenings and (VERB)

weekends with

-friendly activities, Lincoln is (NOUN)

where you can

Speaking

camps, they are everywhere! City (PREPOSITION)

camps located at McPhee Community Learning Center and Air Park, Belmont, Bethany Park, Calvert, and Irving Recreation Centers have endless

, (PLURAL NOUNS)

affordable

, and (PLURAL NOUNS)

hours.

(ADJECTIVE)

Is an indoor summer the way to go for your family? Never miss a movie matinee at

Theatres, free events (NAME)

the fun.

at the libraries, museums,

(VERB)

, Paint Yourself ( P L AC E )

Silly, Lost in Fun, or Urban Air. In case you forgot, summer in Lincoln is

! Make (ADJECTIVE)

sure to cool down at

pools, spraygrounds, (ADJECTIVE)

lakes, or your

peeps who like sand (ADJECTIVE)

yard sprinkler. We know it feels (ADJECTIVE)

volleyball, tennis in

parks, golf, skateboarding (ADJECTIVE)

like you are already

in the humidity, but a (-ING VERB)

splash of H (ADJECTIVE)

Where are our super

at the Bay, or cycling events? We’ve got those, too.

0 never disappoints.

(NUMBER)

And finally, we all know there are no memories quite like the Always follow up swimming with cold

! For

ones made at the county and state

.

(EVENT)

(FOOD)

ice cream, try Ivanna Cone or the 402 Creamery.

(ADJECTIVE)

races and fried (ANIMAL)

, anyone?

(FOOD)

If you like an old school ice cream experience everyone should

to Zesto! You may even find the ice cream (VERB)

cruising around your (VEHICLE)

or Holmes Lake. ( P L AC E )

Summer brings

, music, and theatre! Find ( AC T I V I T Y )

family-

concerts and shows at Jazz in June, Party

Whatever you like, you’ll find it in

. And, we (CITY)

encourage you to take advantage of our (ADJECTIVE)

city transportation to your destination, you never know what you’ll

along the route. Your summer (VERB)

experience is in the journey and the

!

(NOUN)

(ADJECTIVE)

in the Parks, and Pinewood Bowl. If you like to make your own music and drama, we have camps and lessons for that, too.

Noun: person, place, thing, or idea Verb: an action (doesn’t always, but can end in -ing or -s) Adjective: describes a noun

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Adverb: describes a verb or how an action is done, such as “quickly” Preposition: a word that tells us where or when something is in relation to something else, like “the man on the platform”

Have Questions About Your Child’s Development?

If you’re concerned about how your child plays, learns, speaks, acts or moves, contact us today.

Call 2-1-1 and ask for “Help Me Grow” or visit helpmegrownebraska.org

SCHEDULE YOUR SCHOOL PHYSICAL Call 402-465-5600 today! Follow CCH on Facebook for updates & info.

Connecting health, education & families in early childhood

Villarreal Nebraska Academy Youth Soccer

- CALL/EMAIL TO JOIN 2022/23 Soccer Teams Form June 6 to July 6 2022/23 Soccer Season Starts August 1 (402) 465-5600 • CompleteChildrensHealth.com

3262 Salt Creek Cir. • 8201 Northwoods Dr. • 4020 Hohensee Dr. • 1336 West A St.

2022/23 TEAMS Birth Year Groups Yellows : 2017, 2016, 2015 Groguets : 2014 & 2013 Select : 2012 & 2011 Elite : 2010-2004

VILLARREAL NEBRASKA ACADEMY 333 Speedway Circle, Suite 4 Call or email to join a team! admin@villarrealnebraska.com 402-853-7100

Info & Registration at villarrealnebraska.com Professionally directed soccer programs of Villarreal C.F.

lincolnkidsinc.com | 19

Convenient.

Affordable.

Kid-approved.

We offer high-quality, affordable healthcare, with providers and appointments that work for you and your family. Find a clinic located near you!

Kreshel Clinic 3100 N. 14th ADAMS

Main Clinic 1021 N. 27th VINE

48TH

Need to schedule an exam or immunization?

O ST. 14TH

Health 360 2301 O

Piedmont Clinic

SOUTH

(402) 476-145 20 |

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•

BluestemLincoln.com

Thompson Clinic 2222 S. 16th Suite 435

27TH

A ST.

1500 S. 48th Suite 412

Hello Summer!

Crossword Puzzle

1

2

3

4

6

5

7

8

9

10

11

13

12

14

ACROSS 4. In the sky on the Fourth of July 5. Protect your eyes from the sun with these 7. Sleeping in a tent 9. Make a in the pool 11. A refreshing summer drink 12. Pack a lunch and have a 13. Strike 3! You are out!

DOWN 1. The warmest season in Lincoln 2. Chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows make this yummy treat.

3. Red and green fruit with seeds 5. If you forget this you will get burnt 6. Put on your and jump in the pool 8. Served in a cone or a dish 10. A summer snack on a stick 14. Have some fun in the !

lincolnkidsinc.com | 21

Thank You, Lynn!

Longtime Lincoln Parks and Recreation Director, Lynn Johnson, will retire this June. During his 22-year tenure, Lynn provided strong leadership that resulted in new parks, trails, and recreation opportunities in Lincoln.

2012

Union Plaza is a three-block urban park oasis where families can celebrate and discover native Nebraska.

Lynn led a department that today includes:

133 parks

134

miles of trails

92

playgrounds

80,000

6 5 4

dog runs

1

9

public pools

nature center

Partnering with the Lincoln Parks Foundation, Lynn led a team of dedicated staff and passionate volunteers to plan, design, and raise funds for many projects, programs, and facilities across the community.

Now it’s our time to thank Lynn and celebrate all he’s accomplished for the kids of Lincoln.

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Sherman Field provides a historic setting for the young stars of Lincoln to hone their baseball skills.

street trees

recreation centers golf courses

2011

2005

Sunken Gardens have been the backdrop to decades of memorable occasions for Lincoln families.

2016

Nebraska’s Centennial Mall recognizes and celebrates the legacy of Nebraska families – past, present, and future.

2017

Woods Tennis Center draws kids and adults from across the community to learn the life sport of tennis.

2018

Four Dog Runs Woof woof, bark bark, yip yip, arf, howl howl!

e to m i T e Tak Lynn!

Thank

2019

Share your appreciation for Lynn Johnson and his legacy as Parks and Recreation Director.

Cascade Fountain honors educators from across the state.

2021

Air Park Community Center The new Air Park Community Center will anchor a campus for all Air Park families and will include the Williams Branch Library, recreation programs, and community activities.

Send a photo, email and/or note to: Lincoln Parks Foundation, 3131 “O” Street, Suite 301, Lincoln, NE 68510.

Deadline is May 31. Notes, photos, and emails will be presented to Lynn. aimee@lincolnparks.org or 402-441-8258 lincolnkidsinc.com | 23

Easy-Peasy Lemon Squeezy Summertime Crafts & Activities Spend some time doing crafts that will make people smile and bring your neighborhood together.

Hopscotch You’d be surprised how many kids and adults will stop to do a hopscotch if it is in their path. Draw several around your neighborhood and watch the magic happen. You’ll see them popping up all over. Add sight words or numbers to make it more educational or have it loop and turn. Get creative.

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Painted Inspirational Rocks

Lemonade Stand

Paint rocks with inspiring messages on top like, “You’ve got this,” jokes with the answer on the bottom, or pictures that will make people smile. Also on the bottom, put a hashtag that is specific to your neighborhood, like: #meadowlaneforever #piedmontneighbors and see who finds and shares your message.

Set up a lemonade stand for donations and use the money to fill a neighborhood free pantry.

Learn more about free pantries on page 28.

s u m m e r 2022

Here’s to the

big hugs

and little moments that make it

a worthwhile.

mom Here’s to the power of

And here’s a great place to start.

Scan the code to get started

bryanhealth.org/start-here

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Relax.

Dinner’s on the Doorstep.

To order, go to doorstepdiner.com, and click on family style meals. Pick up is every Tuesday — we can’t wait to see you!

By appointment only: 5550 S 59th St., Suite 10 Lincoln, NE 68516 (866) 505-2456 doorstepdiner.com 26 |

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Hands-on learning experiences • Variety of STEAM* infused camps * Science, technology, engineering, arts & math

2022 CAMP WEEKS

• Half-day and full-day camp choices • Flexible around summer sport schedules • Before Care and Lunch Care available

June 6–10 June 13–17 June 20–24 June 27–July 1 July 11–15

Registration

NOW OPEN online

BrightLights.org

!

Enrolling for Summer Camps now

Ages 0 - 7 Years | Days • Evenings • Weekends

OFFICE HOURS

Music Now. Skills for Life.

Welcome Dr. Michelle Wineinger to LPG! She is accepting new patients.

Call to sign up with her today.

Mon-Thu 8:00 am-7:00 pm Friday 8:00 am-4:30 pm Saturday 8:00 am-12:00 pm

OUR TEAM Kay Anderson, M.D., F.A.A.P. Jeffrey David, M.D., F.A.A.P. Jason Davis, M.D., F.A.A.P. Carrie Dell, M.D., F.A.A.P. Kurstin Friesen, M.D., F.A.A.P. Kate Gogela, M.D., F.A.A.P. Joel Greisen, M.D., F.A.A.P. Amanda Knapp, M.D., F.A.A.P. Shelley Nelson, M.D., F.A.A.P. Erin Schmitz, M.D., F.A.A.P. Michelle Wineinger, M.D., F.A.A.P. Valerie Vernon, PA-C Becky Waegli, PA-C Darci Eikmeier, NP Amanda Goddard, NP Mikala Geisert, NP Natasha Hedden, NP

Sunday 12:30 pm-4:30 pm

Register now! New students accepted any time Of Lincoln with Shawna Gordon

(402) 770-1486 • KindermusikOfLincoln.com

4501 S. 70th Street, Suite 110, Lincoln 402-489-3834 lincolnpedsgroup.com

Little Free Pantries

BY E M I LY D U T T E R - B E R N E R

I first became familiar with Lincoln’s “Little Free Pantries” during the pandemic.

Melanie Reinmiller, an acquaintance of mine, made a social media post that caught my attention about a Go Fund Me page supporting Lincoln’s Little Free Pantry movement. Having served as a Backpack Program volunteer for the Lincoln Food Bank for 11 years, I was aware of the food insecurity so many families in Lincoln experience and yet I had never considered its impact on my own neighborhood until the pandemic struck.

After Lincoln Public Schools (LPS) transitioned to remote learning, I observed children and families walking past my home almost daily on their way to Belmont Elementary for meals to take home.

I researched our neighborhood school and learned that before the pandemic started 82% of their enrolled students received free or reduced lunch with 70% of students qualifying for free lunch. When I learned the LPS meal distribution end date was nearing in July of 2020, I knew that families in my neighborhood needed another option for food and other essentials.

Five days later we had a Little Free Pantry installed on our property at 1159 Knox Street.

We filled our pantry that evening and by the next morning, our supplies were completely depleted. We restocked the pantry and within hours it was empty again. It quickly became apparent that our family’s grocery budget would have to more than double in order for us to continue to keep the pantry filled. We knew we would have to rely on the generosity of others in order to continue to keep our pantry fully stocked. News of our Little Free Pantry quickly spread due to social media and the “Little Free Pantries LNK NE” Facebook group.

We received a $500 donation from the Pat

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Clinch Peace Project to buy groceries and would often find the pantry filled with bags of additional donations.

Ten months after we had installed our pantry, I came across a post on the Nextdoor app: “I recently went to the Knox Street Little Free Pantry but it was already pretty much empty...I can’t go too far since I have barely any gas left in my tank driving to the pantries. Anyone live near a Little Free Pantry that has a few necessities? I just can’t afford to waste any gas at this point.”

I realized then how important Little Free Pantries are to some families who may not always be able to make it to larger food distribution sites.

In the years since the beginning of Little Free Pantries, our community has grown to nearly 50 pantries, each one serving an important need in Lincoln.

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Instruction in Lincoln Douglas Debate, Congressional Debate, Public Forum Debate, and Policy Debate

CAMP DIRECTOR

Toni Heimes

REGISTER HERE

CONTACT nebraskadebateinstituteinfo@gmail.com (402) 310-4152 ndinebraska.com

DAY CAMP • GRADES 7 - 12 • JULY 6 - 13 • MILLARD WEST HIGH SCHOOL • $600 (INCLUDES MEALS) 30 |

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Summer Time!

Word Search

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CAMPFIRE PARK PICNIC

SUNGLASSES SWIMSUIT VACATION WATERMELON

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Dignity: Tribes in Transition A New Exhibit at Morrill Hall On a sunny afternoon at Morrill Hall, Katelyn Trammell, an anthropologist working in the University of Nebraska State Museum’s Research Collections, gently opens a box. Inside the box is a child’s hat. The hat is not a present, even though it’s wrapped carefully in tissue paper.

It is something special though. It’s a montera, a traditional hat worn by Quechua (pronounced Kay’ chwa) women and girls from the Andes Mountains in Peru. Katelyn takes the montera out of the box and sets it inside a glass display case. Close to the case there is a framed photograph of a young girl. She is also wearing a special hat. Both the photograph and the montera are part of a new exhibition at Morrill Hall called DIGNITY: Tribes in Transition. It will open on June 10.

The exhibition is made up of photos of Indigenous Peoples taken by internationallyrecognized photographer Dana Gluckstein.

Some photographs have adults in them; some photos are of children. Every photo features Indigenous Peoples from across the globe. The exhibition also has displays of artifacts from the museum’s Anthropology Collection. Artifacts are items like clothes, jewelry, dishes, tools, or toys.

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They are important because they help people know and understand what life is like for people in other parts of the world.

The montera Katelyn placed in the exhibition is part of the museum’s Anthropology Collection, but it originally came from Cuzco, Peru. Do you have a favorite hat you wear to school? What does it look like? Do your friends have hats? What do they look like? Even though your hats may look different, they all help cover your heads.

The museum has more than 40,000 anthropology artifacts from all over the world.

Most of them have never been displayed in a museum before. That’s why it’s exciting that some will be part of the new exhibit and will help museum visitors connect with world cultures, different from their own.

“We hope families will be curious to learn about the different cultures represented in the exhibit by photos and everyday items like the montera,” said Susan Weller, the museum’s director. “Understanding that others have similar - yet unique - cultures helps us understand that we are one large, interrelated and diverse human family.”

DIGNITY will be open at Morrill Hall until August 7, 2022. Access to the exhibit is included with museum admission.

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CONNECT THE DOTS + COLOR

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SAFETY TIP // Fly kites in open areas and away from electrical poles, overhead power lines, trees and other obstacles. NEVER attempt to retrieve any object caught in a power line.

Discover more tips and activities at LES.com/kids. lincolnkidsinc.com | 35

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DIRECTORY Child Care & Education Fingerprints Child Development Center (6w - 10y) Featuring an educational curriculum for all ages in a loving, Christian environment!

Open 6:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Enrolling now for parttime Pre-K morning program. M–F from 9:00 a.m.

– 11:30 a.m. Contact for current openings.

7800 Holdrege St. (402) 467-4503 CapitolCity.org

KidsPark (1 1/2 - 11y) Trusted hourly childcare on days, evenings and weekends! No reservations required. Drop-in Mon.-Thu. 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m., Fri. 7:30 a.m. - 11:00 p.m., and Sat. 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.!

5633 S. 16th St. Ste. 100 (402) 413-8849 KidsPark.com/Lincoln

Trinity Lutheran School

Lost In Fun!

(18m - Grade 5) A fulfilling, Christ-based education center. Our Early Childhood Education Program accepts children ages 18 months through Pre-K with extended hours from 7 a.m. - 5:45 p.m. Also offering K-5 classes.

Your outdoor playland... indoors! Fun for all ages!

Private party rooms, playsets, foam pit, inflatable jumpers, fun maze, laser maze, video games, jumping pillow, Ballocity, and snack area with yummy food and drinks! We do company parties, too! Book your next Fun-tastic party online at lostinfun.com!

1200 North 56th St. (402) 466-1800 trinityoflincoln.org

True Knowledge Preschool (Preschool) A fun and exciting academic approach that will prepare your child for kindergarten and beyond. Small classroom sizes.

Engaging teacher. Welcoming environment! 2, 3, and 5-day options. Contact us to learn more!

5445 Red Rock Ln. (402) 570-1252 trueknowledgelincoln.com

Wee Wisdom Christian Preschool & Academy (Preschool Before / After) Licensed preschool for ages 3-5 that includes swim lessons & gym classes as part of its developmental curriculum.

Before & after school programs for elementary & middle school students at several Community Learning Center sites in schools across Lincoln.

5201 Old Cheney Rd. (402) 420-7111 weewisdompreschool.org

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Southern Hills (6w - 12y) Brand new state-of-the-art learning academy with exclusive curriculum developed for each classroom, guardian-accessible cameras, age-appropriate playgrounds, an onsite chef, and more! With our “Hug First, Then Teach” principle we take a whole child approach, strengthening each child’s emotional, intellectual, social, and physical wellbeing. Currently enrolling all ages – including Summer Camp!

5588 Canterbury Ln. (402) 436-4005 kidsrkids.com/southern-hills

Lincoln Parks and Recreation Preschool Programs Little Sprouts Preschool at Calvert Recreation Center and Nature Preschool at Pioneers Park Nature Center are open to children 3 to 5 years of age. Programs are nature based, with teachers planning curriculum around children’s curiosity and wonder of the world around them.

(402) 441-8669 lincoln.ne.gov (search: Preschool)

South Gate Preschool (18m - Pre-K) South Gate Preschool is an established Lincoln Preschool of 30 years. Our curriculum is based on learning through play with classes for children 18 months to pre-K. Our classes are designed to build a strong foundation for your child’s academic success.

Birthday Party Fun KidsPark (1 1/2 - 11y) Private birthday parties available!

Invitations, balloon favors, a gift for the birthday child, face painting, art, and games are all included. We do the cleanup when the party is over! Sundays 10:30am-12:30pm or 6:30pm8:30pm. Book your date online at kidspark.com/lincoln today!

5633 S. 16th St. Ste. 100 (402) 413-8849 KidsPark.com/Lincoln

Lincoln Children’s Zoo Celebrate your child’s birthday at the Zoo and enjoy all-day admission for you and your guests. Create lasting memories with options for unlimited train rides and critter encounters. Party packages start at just $225. Visit LincolnZoo.org to pick your party, select your date, and reserve your room and time.

8431 Cody Dr. (15th & Yankee Hill) (402) 466-8692 LostInFun.com

Morrill Hall Be a paleontologist, discover some of the most bizarre creatures to inhabit Earth, or go on a treasure hunt exploring the museum’s rocks and minerals! Guided museum activities including a hands-on fossil dig in the Marx Discovery Center and gifts for every child! Six party themes to choose from. Private party room!

Morrill Hall on the UNL Campus (402) 472-2637 museum.unl.edu/birthdays

Pioneers Park Nature Center Add nature to your child’s birthday! Parties includes a guided hike or themed activity, special gift for birthday child, party bags for each child, and time for your own activity and refreshments. Recommended for ages 5-12.

3201 S. Coddington Ave. (402) 441-7895 lincoln.ne.gov (search: Pioneers Park Nature Center)

Lessons & Activities Aimee’s Premier Dance Aimee’s Premier Dance in Hickman offers a variety of dance styles for ages 3+, including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Pointe, and Boys’ Classes. All classes use ageappropriate music, choreography, and costuming.

6760 Woodland Blvd. (Hickman) (402) 440-8770 apremierdance.com

Blue Raven Music Studios Guitar, strings, voice and more! Guitar, drums, bass, piano, dobro, lap steel, mandolin, banjo, violin, viola, ukulele, group bands, and voice instruction for all ages. Fun, positive learning environment. Reduced rate guitar and ukulele classes for kids ages 5-9.

3835 S. 48th St. (by Union College) (402) 486-0599 BlueRavenMusic.com

1222 S. 27th St. (402) 475-6741 LincolnZoo.org

3500 Pioneers Blvd.

(402) 489-7302 preschool@southgateumc.org

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Lessons & Activities (cont’d)

Bright Lights Summer Learning Adventures (Ages K - 8th Grade) Offering 5 weeks of fun, hands-on, STEAM-infused summer learning camps for K-8th grade students. Half-day and full-day camps available on a wide variety of topics. More information including camp schedule and registration details available at BrightLights.org. Registration begins March 5 at 8 a.m.!

5561 S. 48th Street, #220, Lincoln, NE 68516 (402) 420-1115 brightlights.org

Chase the Spirit of Dance Established in 2017, Chase the Spirit of Dance provides Lincoln’s premier dance instruction. All of our dance instructors are personable and fully certified to teach dance at all levels. Whether your focus is technique, flexibility, or you’re just looking for a new way to work out, you can find it here. We offer Ballet, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Lyrical, Clogging, Tap, and so much more to students ages 3 - 93! chasethespirit.dance info@chasethespirit.com (402) 904-4091

Encore Studio

Pop-In Storytime, Morrill Hall

(Ages 5 - 11) Piano lessons and piano/keyboard classes for all levels. Teaching beginners of all ages.

Currently offering a series of virtual events, including virtual field trips, Investigate Saturdays, camps, and more. Find all the info on the website or Facebook page.

54th & L St. (402) 499-0400 encore-studio.com

Morrill Hall on the UNL Campus (402) 472-2637 museum.unl.edu/storytime

Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska As a Girl Scout, you’ll dream big, belong to a sisterhood, and explore your world through hands-on adventures. Whether you’re watching a shooting star, learning about robots, hiking, camping, creating art, or making new friends, you’ll grow with other girls as you discover, imagine, and create together. You’re invited to join Girl Scouts today and become your best self!

8230 Beechwood Drive (402) 558-8189 GirlScouts.how/lincoln MemberSupport@GirlScoutsNebraska.org

Lincoln Music Teachers Association Find a Music Teacher! Access LMTA.info for a Teacher Directory. Low-cost lessons available.

Be a Part of our Directory!

Email us at hello@lnkkids.com.

LMTA.info

o r m F s J e esu i r o s St

Vacation Bible School June 13-17 from 9:00-11:30 a.m. at Saint Paul United Methodist Church, Downtown Lincoln Let's explore the parables of Jesus through Bible study, discussion, music, crafts and activities.

All children ages 4 through 5th grade are welcome!

Register at saintpaulumc.org/VBS. Questions? Contact Martha at families@saintpaulumc.org.

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Shoot your shot.

Make a statement.

For all your commercial and editorial photography needs, call Kathy.

kathyplunkett.com 402-853-4657 kaplunkphoto

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