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FEBRUARY 2009

Arts

The & Your Family • The importance of arts education and your children.

• Is it ever too early or too late to introduce the arts?

• Get in touch with your own creativity.

Guthrie: A romantic Valentine adventure

Iron Moms: Get ready to run

T h e E s s e nt i a l Res o u rce fo r Cent ra l O k l a h o m a F a m i l i es

w w w. M et roFa m i l yM aga z i n e.comw w w. M et roFa m i l yM aga z i n e.comw w w.

Do you need time off from the kids for whatever reason?

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Join us for Open House on February 5th from 1:30 - 7pm.

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Friday-Saturday 8:30 am to 10:30 pm.

Sunday- Noon to 5pm.

Children ages 2-8 years old (and siblings up to age 10) come check out the fun! Please bring your child's immunization records upon enrollment.

For more information, visit www.MauiPlayCare.com

Maui PlayCare 5503 NW Expressway Oklahoma City, OK 73132 (405) 722-6155

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As a second-generation builder, Neal McGee has worked closely with many Oklahoma families over the past 27 years. He has shared their excitement, their ideas and their dreams of a perfect home. This dedication to family can be seen throughout our company.

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February 2009 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com 3

The Top Five Reasons to visit MetroFamilyMagazine.com this month:

Save the Date for Oklahoma’s Premiere Family Event!

MetroFamily presents

Committing to a healthier lifestyle this year? Join us at 5. MetroFamilyMagazine.com/Iron-Moms. for private schools? Field trips? Check out 4. Looking our Education Guide at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ mfm-2009-education-guide.

out the Grade Card Rewards from around the 3. Check metro at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/grade-card-rewards. continually add new bloggers and you’ll love the 2. Weinformation they provide. Check it out and comment at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/blog.

Contests, Contests, Contests, Contests…

1. Contests, at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/contests.

April 19, noon to 5pm, Downtown OKC Sheraton Hotel Pavillion Oklahoma Destinations • Attractions Summer Camps and Activities Plus: Hands-on Activities, Entertainment, Inflatables, National Memorial group project.

Booth space available. Call today for more information. 405.340.1404

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Now accepting applications for grades PreK - 10th For more information or application materials, call

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February 2009

• • • • • • • • •

Highly Qualified Teachers Beautiful New Facilities High Tech Classrooms Athletics Fine Arts Core Knowledge Curriculum Student Leadership Institute Skills for a Global Economy All integrated with a biblical wordview

February 2009

Kids and the Arts Issue 36 Calendar Events and activities

20 Character First Trait of the month: responsibility

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Dear MetroFamily Editor’s Note

28 Exploring Oklahoma Romantic, historic Guthrie

34 Family Finances Shop locally

10 Family Shorts Studies have shown that kids involved in the arts have better performance in school and higher academic test scores overall. Read about the arts in schools on page 17, early art education on page 8, and art and your teens on page 32.

News you can use

32 In Touch with Relationships The arts and your teen

30 Iron Moms A Redbud training plan

22 Let’s Eat Romantic recipes

24 Oklahoma Reads Book reviews

8

Q & A with the Beasleys Is it too early to learn about the arts?

17

The importance of the arts in your child’s education

26

Seven ways to live creatively in an uncreative world

16 Your Healthy Family Natural remedies for allergies

On our cover (and above): Almost two-year-old Hannah Spurgeon of Newcastle, one of MFM’s Cover Kid winners. Learn more about her on page 6.

Photograph by Edmond MotoPhoto in Bryant Square.

February 2009

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Dear MetroFamily, 2009 is in full swing now, and there’s no turning back. I made a few resolutions this year, and so far, so good.

First up, organization. My husband will tell you differently, but I have made strides in this area. I’ve addressed some actual clutter and virtual clutter, and I’m encouraged to keep on the path of organization.

Second, living in the moment. This one is still a work in progress. Every day brings a new opportunity and I’ve been trying hard. This is an especially important resolution as it really is a matter of effective time management and paying attention to the things (and more importantly, people) deserving my full attention.

And a late entry to the annual “to do list”—I’m committed to running a 5K this year, specifically the Redbud in April. By putting that out there I’ve turned every one of you who reads this into my accountability partner, and that’s a bit scary! If you want to commit to making a healthy change, visit our Iron Moms page (MetroFamilyMagazine. com/Iron-Moms) to get inspiration, sign up to run the Redbud with us, or just to read the trials and tribulations of this journey in my Iron Moms blog. We also encourage you to leave a comment and let us know how you are doing.

Enjoy the month of February; this shortest of the months is packed with events and information. It’s African American History Month, it brings us the romantic ideals of Valentine’s Day, the history of President’s Day, and of course, our annual Kids and the Arts issue. I hope you find something to inspire you this month.

Cheers,

Info And Questions: 405-340-1404 To submit events to our calendar: Calendar@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Publisher Sarah L. Taylor Sarah@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Editor Mari M. Farthing Editor@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Art Director Mitzi Massie Mitzi@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Advertising Director Donna Stewart Ads@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Advertising Sales Rebecca Phansalkar Karl McKinney Office and Distribution Manager Kathy Alberty Kathy@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Marketing Specialist Whitney Fleming Calendar Editor & Special Projects Assistant Terri Fields Calendar@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Editorial Assistants Elizabeth Harvey Sherrie Horton Graphics Assistant Kathryne Taylor Kathryne@MetroFamilyMagazine.com

• Hurry! Get your tickets NOW for MetroFamily’s Parent University (educator workshop and parent workshop) on February 5 featuring Dr. Betsy Geddes speaking on Love and Logic. Find out all details and purchase tickets at a discount online at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/parent-university.

• Mark your calendar for Oklahoma’s Summer Adventure EXPO scheduled for April 19, noon to 5pm at the Sheraton Downtown Pavilion. This premiere family event will feature summer camps and activities and Oklahoma travel destinations, hands-on activities, entertainment, food, and more. Call us today if interested in a booth; limited space available.

• Our March issue will focus on pregnancy and the early years. Ad deadline is February 11 and distribution starts February 27. Call us today at 405-340-1404.

Meet our Cover Kid: Hannah Spurgeon, two-year-old daughter of Scott and April of Newcastle and one of MFM’s Cover Kids contest winners, is already having fun with the arts. She loves to dance and tumble to music with her mom at The Little Gym every week. She also enjoys helping her daddy play the guitar and playing the piano with her grandma, Shauna.

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February 2009

Contributing Writers Drs Lori & Stewart Beasley Karen Mitchell Chris Crawford Gayleen Rabakkuk Mari Farthing Sue Lynn Sasser Shannon Fields Terri Schlichenmeyer Elizabeth Harvey Paul Tobin Scott Jeffrey Circulation 35,000 – OKC, Edmond, Nichols Hills, Norman, Moore, Midwest City, Yukon Also available as a digital edition at MetroFamilyMagazine.com.

Articles and advertisements in MetroFamily do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Inprint Publishing, Inc. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by MetroFamily does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

MetroFamily Magazine is published monthly

By Inprint Publishing, Inc. Mailing Address: 306 S. Bryant, Suite C152 • Edmond, OK 73034 Fax: 405-340-1490 E-mail: Info@MetroFamilyMagazine.com ©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2009, All Rights Reserved.

Volume 12, Number 02

Why put off until tomorrow what you can do today?

Call today for a chance to win a scholarship to the Guthrie Job Corps Center.

Job training available to young women ages 16 to 24.

Guthrie Job Corps Center For more information, contact a Recruiter: Oklahoma City 405-879-2044 1-877-282-9934

Guthrie 405-282-9372 1-800-575-8504

S. Oklahoma City 405-670-9100

Lawton 580-357-3500

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Visit us online at: http://guthrie.jobcorps.gov

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February 2009

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Q & A with the Beasleys

Is This School Pressuring Our Children?

Dear Drs. Beasley: We recently attended open house at our children’s school which emphasizes fine arts. There are reproductions of famous artwork in the classroom and throughout the school. They discuss works of art, listen to a variety of music, and read literature I didn’t read until high school. Isn’t this rushing our kids?

We are concerned about whether this is appropriate for young children, or is this a legitimate curriculum?

Tina and Zac

Dr. Stewart: You raise an interesting point. Interestingly, many Oklahoma classrooms are now placing emphasis on fine arts. This increase in focus on the arts is well intentioned and well planned. Two organizations that have been influential and supported Oklahoma schools in developing a fine arts curriculum and fine art activities that support creativity are the DaVinci Institute and Oklahoma A+ Schools.

Dr. Lori: You know, sometimes as parents we become so involved in developing our children’s appreciation of academics and athletics, that we overlook the third “A”: Arts. Recently, the DaVinci Institute and the Kirkpatrick Foundation conducted a joint research project that resulted in the initiation of Oklahoma A+ Schools, a whole-school reform model. The model maintains that integration of the arts in our schools’ curriculum plays a central role in how children learn. The belief is that an educated child is not only familiar with academics, but also with music, drama, sculpting, photography, and other forms of fine art.

Dr. Stewart: Oklahoma’s colleges and universities are helping develop competent teachers in the fine arts curriculum through ongoing professional development. Well-prepared teachers spark creativity and enthusiasm in our children. They create a learning atmosphere that motivates. It sounds to us as if you saw that in your children’s classrooms. There are long term benefits, also. We know, for instance, that experiencing the arts in a creative environment at a young age will more likely lead to a greater appreciation of the arts throughout life. That’s quite a benefit!

Dr. Lori: Creativity is also linked to intellectual development in children.

Problem solving, imagination, collaboration, and intuition are considered strong characteristics of creative thinking and success in children.

Young children are particularly creative because they view the world in fresh and

unconstrained ways. Somehow, we lose that creativity as we grow older. The A+ Schools curriculum is designed to make creativity and freshness of thought a way of life.

Dr. Stewart: Creative thinkers generate lots of ideas. They expand their thinking and through brainstorming, can find more solutions when faced with a problem. You can see how thinking out of the box is an asset to solving playground disputes and someday, business disputes.

Dr. Lori: Supporting classrooms as well as community programs that expose children to the arts or support art and creativity in schools is important to a well-rounded, innovative citizen. We hope you will continue to revel in your child’s learning in your community school and support their creations both at school and at home. It sounds to us as if your children are fortunate to be in the classrooms where they are.

Lori Beasley, EdD is Asst. Vice President of Academic Affairs and Professor of Family Life Education at the University of Central Oklahoma. Stewart R. Beasley, PhD is a licensed psychologist who practices in Edmond and Oklahoma City and is Clinical Professor of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine.

Do you have a question about early childhood issues for the Beasleys? E-mail it to SRB@DRStewartBeasley.com.

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February 2009

Find more parenting advice, including more articles by the Beasleys at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ Parenting

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February 2009

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Trout Season = Family Fun Artistic Interests If you are looking for low-key, low-cost, outdoor family fun, look no further than Dolese Youth Park Pond in northwest Oklahoma City.

Through February 28, Rainbow trout will be stocked at this fishing hole under the “Close to Home Fishing Program” and a partnership between the Wildlife Department and the Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Department. The Close to Home program provides local fishing areas that save potential anglers time and gas money, while also providing an opportunity for parents and children to connect, whether after school or on a weekend.

Bob Martin, fisheries biologist for the Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Department, said via press release, “We’re stocking rainbow trout that range from nine to 24 inches.” He encourages using 4- to 6-pound test line with a slip sinker and small hook.

Bait typically includes powerbaits, corn, and worms.

There is a limit of six trout per person per day during the season, February. An annual state which runs through the end of Febr fishing license and a fi fishing and hunting legacy permit is required (unless e exempt).

Dolese Youth Park Pond is located no north of NW 50th, just Meridia Ave. For details, west of Meridian Pa contact the H.B. Parsons Fish Hatchery at OKC.gov/ 405-755-4014, or OKC.gov/Lakes.

MFM Q Question of the Month What is the 3-course romantic menu dreamed up by Chef Marc Dunham?

(Hint: see Let’s Eat, page 22) To enter, visit MetroFamilyMagazine.com/FS-Giveaway and complete the entry form and be eligible to win prize package valued over $300 Deadline is Thursday, February 19.

The winning entry will receive a prize including the items pictured above and other items reviewed in this issue. Full description of items listed at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/FSGiveaway. * Winner agrees to pick up items from NW OKC area.

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February 2009

How do you encourage your children to make time for the arts? Children young and old can benefit from artistic expression. A few creative ideas: • The Art House Basic Shapes and Animals DVD (TheArtHouse. com) encourages children as young as two to see the shapes that make up the items that surround us in everyday life. A great place for young children to get started learning about art.

• The Animodulos animal set (Mitik.com) allows children to punch out and embellish a barnyard of animals using paint, crayons, decoupage, or markers.

Perfect for ages four and up, from the mildly to the wildly creative.

• Find inspiration in the books of Johnny Swager (JohnnyArt.com).

Eight-year-old Johnny took his love and appreciation of art and developed Johnny’s Adventure Books, which contain Johnny’s paintings and prose. A great source of inspiration for the young and the young at heart.

• The Silver Dolphin Fine Art Studio Pastels set (SilverDolphinBooks.com) contains everything needed to get started. Soft pastels; paper, tools, and an instructional booklet. For ages 10 and up.

Cookie Time!

Taking it to the Streets

Let’s be honest. Girl Scout Cookies aren’t just a great way to support a great organization; they’re also a delicious guilty pleasure. Don’t we all look forward to the annual cookie sale?

The new Science Matters Mobile Museum, funded by the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation, will bring exhibits and ideas from Science Museum Oklahoma to rural areas of the state, providing students opportunities where museums and facilities are not readily available.

Girl Scouts benefit in many ways from the annual cookie sale.

The girls learn life skills (money management and teamwork), “It is our feeling that public speaking skills, and to connect with their community. every child benefits The money raised by the sale directly impacts the girls by from dynamic hands-on providing funds to recruit and train volunteer leaders, provide learning experiences financial assistance to make Scouting available to all girls, especially in the improve and maintain physical camps, and sponsor events and sciences,” said Steve projects.

Anderson, President of the Donald W. Reynolds And this year, the Girl Scout Cookie Sensations Dessert Foundation. “And, it Contest features the cookies as the theme ingredient in is our hope that when desserts at Metro-area restaurants. The desserts will be this amazing mobile available through February 14, and proceeds from them laboratory rolls into will benefit Girl Scouts of Western Oklahoma. Participating a small town, the restaurants include Tom & Jerry’s, CoCo Flow, Magnolia experience will help Room and 1492. spark a child’s desire to learn for a lifetime.”

Learn more by visiting GSWestOK.org or call 405-528-3535.

Prep for Marriage

The mobile museum features hands-on activities to enlighten and engage children of all ages, though the curriculum and activities are written specifically for the 5th grade Oklahoma PASS standards.

Visit ScienceMuseumOK.org/omn_mobilemuseum_faqs.htm to learn more.

“Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”

This quote from the Bible (Ecclesiastes 4:12) explains the thought behind the Preparing for the Marriage of a Lifetime program, which is now used in churches across the US and in several other countries around the world.

Dr. Kim Kimberling first developed the program 11 years ago in Oklahoma to teach couples the tools that would allow them to develop a strong marriage. While the national average for divorce is over 50%, graduates of the program have a divorce rate of about 5%. Classes are held at churches around the Metro and also online; a class schedule can be found at PrepForMarriage.com.

The program has evolved and also includes programs for couples to work on after the wedding. “Maintaining a strong marriage takes work,” said Dr. Kimberling. “You can’t just think you’ve got it right and then expect to coast for the rest of your lives.” The Reconnect program addresses the changing needs of married couples and may also be found at PrepForMarriage.com.

White House Writing Contest The Letters from the White House national creative writing contest encourages children (PreK-12) to write letters as though they are a resident of the Presidential home.

Participants may use their creativity to create a note from past, present or future residents.

Entrants are invited to write a letter or journal entry from a historical member (such as a former president or child of a president), Whitee House staff member, or future White t.

House inhabitant.

The contest opened on Inauguration Day and entries are due by President’s Day, February 16. For details, rules, and selection criteria, visit AdLit.org/Our_White_House_Contest.

February 2009

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Free Youth Leadership Forum The Youth Leadership Forum provides leadership training to Oklahoma high school juniors and seniors with developmental disabilities. A week-long camp is held at a university and camp attendees (or delegates as they are called) explore career options.

At the forum, delegates will work together in small groups to develop leadership plans and achieve goals. Guest speakers address topics of relevance to the delegates, such as disability rights laws, technology, and available resources. But it’s not all work; the forum also includes social and recreational activities.

Perhaps the most important facet of the forum is the adults with disabilities who lead by example. These adults serve as staff and mentors, sharing their stories with the young delegates who may go on to travel the same paths.

Delegates are chosen through a statewide competition, selected through an application, essay, and letters of recommendation. Delegates represent a diverse mix of gender, economic status, ethnicity, and disability.

Applications are currently being accepted (through March 9), and the 2009 Forum will be held June 9-13 at the USAO Campus in Chickasha. All costs including transportation are paid by the Oklahoma Developmental Disabilities Council. To learn more or to apply, visit okddc.ok.gov/youth_leadership_forum.html or call 405-521-4984.

Revive Conference Do you want to help make a difference? Learn how your involvement can make a big impact on less fortunate members of the community at the 2nd Annual Revive Conference. Participants will receive inspiration, education, and direction regarding the many effective local ministries that are seeking active community members to help their cause.

“Revive exists to bring awareness, supply needed volunteers, and offer help to various key organizations,” said Carol Cutler, co-founder and board member of Revive, a nonprofit organization. Revive seeks to help low income families in need of assistance, at risk children in need of a mentor, prisoners in need of support and encouragement, homeless seeking help, foster children, homeless children and infants and mothers in crisis.

“I truly believe people want a purpose greater than themselves,” said Cynthia Huffmyer, founder and president of Revive. “Many just don’t know where to start, and Revive offers an opportunity to find that place.”

Easy to be

Green Don’t Throw it Out! Hazardous chemicals exist in our homes. Common items such as bleach, ammonia, pesticides, motor oil and paint are probably in every home in the Metro area. But how do we safely dispose of these items? They don’t belong in the trash.

We’ve seen the trucks that pick up the trash; a can is dumped, the truck compacts the load to make room for more. If you throw away bleach and your neighbor tosses some ammonia, the resulting fumes of that chemical concoction could be dangerous.

Residents of The Village, Yukon, Tinker AFB, Shawnee, Edmond, Bethany and Moore are able to use the Hazardous Household Waste collection facility at SW 15th and Portland. A valid driver’s license and current utility bill (to provide proof of residency) are needed. A fee for disposal may be applied to your utility bill. Items that may be disposed of include: • propane, gasoline, brake fluid, antifreeze • pesticides, herbicides, fertilizer • computer equipment

The Conference will be held Saturday, February 21 at the MetroTech Springlake Campus (north of 26th and Martin Luther King Blvd), 9am-2pm. Visit ReviveMinistries. com or call 405-844-7533 to learn more.

• fluorescent lightbulbs (including CFL compact fluorescent bulbs)

Art with a Heart

• household cleaning products including furniture polish, oven cleaners, and drain cleaners

The Tri Delta Alumnae’s Annual Art with a Heart silent auction benefits the Oklahoma Children’s Cancer Association (OCCA), a non-profit group that helps children and their families cope with the emotional, physical and financial struggles associated with cancer. Children receiving treatment at the Jimmy Everest Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children’s Hospital of Oklahoma create art at therapy sessions. These pieces are then donated to the sale and silent auction, which in turn benefits these children and their families through the OCCA. The young artists will be in attendance at the event, in recognition of their accomplishments.

OCCA is an independent non-profit organization designed to help children and families cope with the emotional, physical, and financial struggles that come with cancer.

Tickets are $30, available in advance and at the door. Hors d’oeuvres and cash bar will be available. Call Sally Stringer (405-751-8793) or Lynn Robertson (405-840-7774) or visit ArtWithAHeartOKC.com for details.

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February 2009

• swimming pool chemicals

• mercury • paint or paint thinner To learn more about the Hazardous Household Waste facility, please visit OKC.gov/services/hh_waste, or call 405-682-7038.

Don’t forget—when you are done with this issue, pass it on to a friend or drop it in your recycle bin!

Problem-Solving Products

Mammograms for Oklahoma Women

Problem:

When it comes to cancer, early detection saves lives. When it comes to breast cancer, early detection comes in the form of a mammogram, and the OU Cancer Institute is seeking to make mammograms available to all women in Oklahoma.

You want kid-friendly music that’s also adult-friendly.

Solution: The Universal Music Family CD Collections ($14 each) are filled with music that will make you tap your feet and sing along but hopefully not cringe. Titles include Motown, 80s Tunes, Ella Fitzgerald songs, traditional children’s songs, lullabies and jazz music.

Submit your ideas for family-friendly titles on their website. (ILoveThatSong. com/family)

Problem: Just because you need a belt, that doesn’t mean you want one.

Solution: The IsABelt ($17) is a clear solution that holds up your pants without the fashion statement of a standard belt. Great for holding up your pants while you meet your weight loss resolution. (IsABelt.com)

Problem: You want to be prepared for car emergencies.

Solution: The SafetyStick ($18.95) is a 4-in-1 tool to keep stowed in your car. It includes a seatbelt cutter, emergency beacon, flashlight, strong magnet and glass break hammer.

Small enough to stash in the side door pocket or glove compartment.

(SafetyBright.com)

A unique partnership between the OU Cancer Institute, the OU Breast Institute, the Avon Foundation and the Susan G. Komen for the Cure of Central Oklahoma has formed to make mammograms more readily available to all women.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure of Central Oklahoma has provided a grant to help women who do not have the ability to pay for mammograms. The OU Breast Institute will perform the mammograms. And the Avon Foundation has provided a grant to assist groups of women from around the state in travelling to the OU Health Sciences Center for their mammograms.

Grants are awarded based on family size and income level. Visit OUMedicine. com or call Tracie Anderson at 405-271-6822 for details.

Children’s Dental Health Month Did you know that nationwide, children missed over 51 million hours of school because of dental-related problems last year? Since February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, Delta Dental of Oklahoma is encouraging parents to help their children better understand the importance of oral health care.

• Start cleaning teeth early. As soon as your child’s first tooth appears, begin cleaning by wiping with a clean, damp cloth daily. When more teeth come in, switch to a small soft toothbrush.

• Use the right amount of fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride is important for fighting cavities. But if children younger than 6 years old swallow too much fluoride, their permanent teeth may have white spots. Use only a pea-size amount of toothpaste and teach your child to spit out the toothpaste and rinse well after brushing.

• Supervise brushing. Brush your child’s teeth twice a day until your child has the skill to handle the toothbrush alone.

• Floss every day. As soon as any two teeth touch, make sure you use floss to clean between your child’s teeth every day. Your kids should be capable of flossing and brushing by themselves by the time they start first grade.

• Drink Driink k more ttap ap w water. Bottled water doesn’t contain fluoride but b most municipal water supplies have fluoride-trea fluoride-treated at water. For healthier teeth, ditch bottled water and drink right from the tap Through its charitable foundation, Delta Dental of Oklahoma has contributed nearly $2 million (to date) to help provide greater access to oral healthcare and education to all citizens of Oklahoma. Visit DeltaDentalOK.org for more information.

Problem: You want a portable dictionary

Solution: The Franklin NY Times PageMark Dictionary ($59.95) is a slim-profile page marker that also serves as a dictionary, clock and calculator. Ten games will help challenge your word knowledge should you tire of reading. (Franklin.com) February 2009

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13

Performing Arts Academy Oklahoma City University

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Animation Creations (Ages 8 - 12) Buggin (Ages 8 - 12) Clay All Day (Ages 12 & Up)

Visit www.cityartscenter.org or call (405) 951-0000 for camp details

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2401 Chautauqua Ave., Norman (405) 325-4712 www.snomnh.ou.edu The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity institution.

Music Transforming Lives! t NEW Kindermusik Classes t NEW “Tween” Voice Class APPLY NOW for 2009 Summer Music Programs:

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February 2009

The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum offers these upcoming adult education programs:

February 3, 10, 17 and 24 · 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.

20th Century Photographers in the American West Instructor: B. Byron Price, Executive Director of the Charles Russell Center Tuition and pre-enrollment required.

March 13 New Deal Mural Sites Bus Trip One-day visit to several New Deal mural sites in central Oklahoma.

Tuition and reservations required.

March 14 · 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Book Signing and Symposium In conjunction with the release of the new book Lanterns on the Prairie: The Blackfeet Photographs of Walter McClintock

Sign up for free e-newsletter or become a member at www.nationalcowboymuseum.org 1700 NE 63rd Oklahoma City, OK 73111 (405) 478-2250 www.nationalcowboymuseum.org

Our new travel guide designed with FAMILY FUN in mind

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Contact us today for details on advertising in this exciting new travel guide!

405.340.1404 • Info@MetroFamilyMagazine.com February 2009

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15

Your Healthy Family Fighting Allergies Without Medication

W

ith springtime approaching, most of us are looking forward to longer days, warmer weather, and a return to outdoor life.

Many, however, are also dreading allergy season. As many as one in four Americans suffer with seasonal allergies, and parents of children with allergies are facing new concerns following major changes in industry guidelines regarding the use of over-the-counter cold and allergy medications in children under six. As the mother of a five-yearold with moderate allergies, I recently set out to find a solution. Can allergy symptoms be prevented?

What are Allergies?

Allergies are caused by an overreaction of the immune system when it is exposed to an otherwise harmless substance known as an allergen. People have a wide range of sensitivities, though pollen and ragweed are common examples. When an allergic reaction occurs, the body produces an antibody called IgE to fight the allergen. These antibodies attach to mast cells, which are plentiful in the airways and the gastrointestinal tract where allergens tend to enter the body. Finally, the mast cells explode and release excess histamine, which causes inflammatory symptoms such as watery eyes, itching, and runny nose.

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Are Allergies Preventable?

Understanding how allergies work makes it a little easier to see how they might be prevented. Many in the healthcare community feel that taking steps to boost your immunity may prevent or lessen the effects of seasonal allergies.

Edmond pharmacist Stephanie Harris recommends increasing fluid intake during cold and allergy season to keep mucous membranes moist, which may prevent airborne allergens and bacteria from attaching to mucosal tissue. “As far as prevention goes, hydrating the mucous membranes is a great first step.� “We’ve been getting great feedback on some of the saline nasal rinses available, such as Entsol,� notes Harris.

These products work by reducing nasal swelling and increasing ciliary flow to clear sinus passages. Another popular irrigation product is the Neti pot, which has gained increased media attention in the last year following a mention on the Oprah Winfrey Show. A Neti pot looks like a small ceramic teapot, which holds a saline solution. The solution is poured through the nasal cavity.

Oklahoma City mom Sarah Lucas recalls the previous spring. “I was pregnant, my allergies were pretty bad, and I didn’t want to resort to medication if I didn’t have to.� She started using a

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Neti pot and found immediate relief. “It took a little practice to get the hang of the positioning, but it really cleared my sinuses. I also used a warm gel pack on my forehead to relieve the pressure.�

Supplements may also offer benefits.

Antioxidants such as Vitamin C help to cleanse the body of toxins and increase immune function, which can help with allergy symptoms. Probiotics are another very valuable supplement during cold and allergy season, and are recommended by many pharmacists and physicians. A probiotic is a microbe, or “good bacteria� that protects its host and prevents disease by crowding out potentially bad bacteria. Recent studies have shown regular use of probiotics may help to reduce the effects of allergies and eczema by reducing inflammation in the body and boosting the immune system.

Lucas swears by probiotic therapy as well, and has been using them as a regular supplement since shortly after the birth of her infant daughter. “We started giving them to Sydney months ago because of her eczema. When she recently had a bout of cough and congestion, I doubled her dose a few days after the allergy symptoms started.

Since there are no side effects, I figured it couldn’t hurt to try, and I have some friends who have had success with probiotic therapy in their own kids. Sure enough, within a day, the drainage had dried up considerably!� Sydney is back to being a smiling, cheerful 8-month-old, and mom is sold on the benefits.

Rest assured, if you or your child suffers from seasonal allergies, relief is available. The solution may be much simpler than you think, and there are more choices available to ease and prevent symptoms than ever before, even without medication. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about treatment options. I, for one, am going to get my daughter a glass of water.

Shannon Fields is a freelance writer and a Certified Pharmacy Technician at Innovative Pharmacy Solutions.

We are all familiar with the “three Rs” of “reading and ‘riting and arithmetic.” But, what if there is more to a well-rounded education than these core subjects alone?

Whether it is music, theater, dance or the visual arts, parents and educators are discovering that, by incorporating the arts, they are adding a vital ingredient to a well-rounded education.

According to their current campaign, “The Arts. Ask for More,” Americans for the Arts (AmericansForTheArts.org) states that the arts: • improve kids’ overall academic performance; • show that kids actively engaged in arts education are likely to have higher test scores than those with little or no involvement; • develop skills needed by the 21st century workforce: critical thinking, creative problem solving, effective communication and teamwork; • teach kids to be more tolerant and open; • allow kids to express themselves creatively and bolster their selfconfidence; and • keep students engaged in school and less likely to drop out.

By implementing the Oklahoma A+ Schools network program, Oklahoma is making a concerted effort to integrate the arts in education. Oklahoma A+ Schools Executive Director, Jean Hendrickson, defines the program as “the state’s only research-based whole-school network with a mission of nurturing creative learners.”

The A+ initiative began as a research model sponsored by the Kenan Institute for the Arts in North Carolina, with a purpose to identify the country’s most successful education reform models. Oklahoma caught sight of this cutting-edge research and thought it to be one of great potential for replication in our state.

According to Hendrickson, A+ Schools commit to a set of eight A+ Essentials, which research has shown “lead to higher achievement, joyful, engaged students, teachers and community, and more creative, focused instruction.” These essentials include arts, curriculum, experiential learning, February 2009

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17

multiple intelligences, enriched assessment, collaboration, infrastructure, and climate. (See APlusOK.org for a complete description of these elements.)

What makes an A+ School experience different from a typical classroom? Hendrickson explains that instead of teaching about a historical figure such as George Washington through traditional books and worksheets, A+ teachers are encouraged to bring multiple experiences to the classroom to present the material.

The teachers will work with other teachers throughout the school to collaborate on projects so, for example, what is being sung in music class would correspond to the lessons in the social studies curriculum. Further, in the classroom, there might be a role-playing project that shows George Washington as he crossed the Delaware with his troops. Students could be actors, reporters, or recorders, making drawings or taking photographs of the scene.

“Kids learn through a multitude of ways and A+ teachers are given the freedom to incorporate a variety of means to present the subjects. Students in these situations are serious about attending school each day. They don’t want to miss another fun learning experience,” reports Hendrickson. And, she adds, “The arts are essential to the creative process and are often what teachers use to present the material.”

Statistics prove that A+ Schools are working. In the 200506 school year (the most recent year for these statistics), A+ Schools had an average API (Academic Performance Index) score of 1308, while the statewide average for that year was 1180. There are currently over 50 A+ Schools in Oklahoma and others are encouraged to apply.

Many parents and teachers share the belief that integrating the arts into children’s education not only enhances their learning, but also helps them become well-rounded, creative individuals.

Regina Bell, a music teacher at Cleveland Elementary School in Norman, says, “I’m not teaching to make future band members. I know children all grow up to be different things.

But, I believe, in teaching music, it helps make a well-rounded child, who then goes on to become a well-rounded adult who appreciates the other arts as well.” Bell’s sons Brooks and Brady are active in the arts, and she says she has seen the benefits first-hand. Brooks, an 8th grader at Whittier Middle School in Norman, is an active member of the band. Brady, a 4th grader at Cleveland Elementary School, plays piano and is active at Norman’s Sooner Theater. “He loves theater so much, he actually chose it over football,” says Bell. While teaching music, Bell says “I try to relate it to other subjects. For example, I might relate it to science by discussing the sound waves that music consists of. Books alone don’t do it anymore… you have to entertain them (children) by throwing in any angle you can. You have to incorporate a variety of things to reach a variety of students.”

“I’ve seen the impact of the arts not only on my own children, but on children in my classroom,” says Bell. “I’ve seen timid children take the stage and they might be a little nervous coming up to the microphone at first, but then they just develop 18

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February 2009

this confidence and it’s amazing. The arts allow children to express themselves and gain confidence… and in the future, that helps prepare them for public speaking, job interviews, and a myriad of other things. The arts foster a self-pride and confidence.”

Another impact of an arts education that seems to be universal when speaking with parents and teachers is the lessons it provides in discipline and commitment, as well as healthy outlets for emotional expression.

“The arts provide many avenues for healthy emotional expression,” says Bell, “A child is able to express himself without a fist.”

Take, for example, Stan Elmore’s 6th grade honor choir, dubbed “The Treble Makers.” Elmore, who teaches for the Carl Junction School District in Missouri, says “In auditioning for my music group (The Treble Makers), I have found that I have more students try out and get accepted from what could be termed ‘higher achieving’ classes. That example has held true which surely shows some correlation between academic achievement and musical ability and achievement.

I have also discovered that it is rare to find a student who has exceptional musical ability but has serious or insurmountable disciplinary problems. There are exceptions, but they have been few.” Elmore adds, “There are many children who seem to blossom socially and otherwise after being selected for and participating in the Treble Makers group. I am speaking of students who just haven’t seemed to find an outlet yet, and when they join the group, they seem to flourish in other aspects of their life.”

Findings from the Living the Arts Through Language + Learning: A Report on Community-Based Youth Organizations found that young people who participate in the arts for at least three hours a day, three days a week for at least one year are: • Four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement; • Three times more likely to be elected to class office within their schools; • Four times more likely to participate in a math and science fair; • Three times more likely to win an award for school attendance; and • Four times more likely to win an award for writing an essay or poem.

In addition, young artists, as compared with their peers, are likely to: • Read for pleasure nearly twice as often; • Perform community service more than four times as often; • Participate in youth groups nearly four times as frequently; and • Attend music, art, and dance classes nearly three times as frequently.

Another distinct advantage of an education enriched by the arts is that it accommodates a variety of learning styles.

“Not all children are scholastic-minded or good test-takers,” says Ginger Waldrip, Director of Ginger’s Kindermusik in Oklahoma City. “These children are often left behind and it’s so disheartening. They have high abilities in other areas and may succeed in different ways. The arts allow them to excel in their own unique way which creates a more secure, confident child.”

Looking for artistic opportunities outside your child’s classroom?

Here is a sampling of the variety offered in the Metro: Canterbury Choral Society, OKC

Dr. Sherry Rowan, principal of Harding Fine Arts Academy in Oklahoma City, says “One common misconception about fine arts programs is that they have lower expectations in core subjects and that’s just simply not the case.” She continues, “It’s a different way of learning, but a no less valid way of learning. Different students respond to different learning methods.”

405-232-7464, CanterburyOKC.com Singing and performance group for adults.

Corbin Greer, a junior at Harding, agrees. “I like that my class sizes are smaller so I have more one-on-one time with my teachers and I like that I can explore the arts in school, in addition to just the regular subjects.” Kim Greer, Corbin’s mother and a minister of music and worship at First Baptist Church, Oklahoma City, adds, “I’ve read a lot about how beneficial the arts can be when our children are little, but I think it helps all the way through school.” Greer also says she notices a difference from the past schools her sons attended.

“At Harding, four to five classes a day are focused on the arts and creativity,” she says. “My son, Preston, (a senior) is excelling because of the way they teach.”

405-951-0000, CityArtsCenter.org Creative classes, camps and workshops for children and adults.

“I believe in ‘No Child Left Behind’ and that teachers should be held accountable,” adds Regina Bell. “Math and reading are important. But, I also believe in incorporating music and theater and art… that’s what gets some kids to come to school.

If I can get a child to school because he loves playing the trumpet, I can get math and reading in front of him, too.”

Stan Elmore adds, “The arts allow students to express themselves in ways they may not be able to attain in traditional academic disciplines. The arts are also able to inspire students who are otherwise uninspired with traditional learning. Music and art are both easily integrated with the other disciplines. In fact, I am continually surprised at just how much I integrate other subjects into my music class. History, mathematics, language arts and social studies are all easily integrated into music and art and are in fact almost impossible to leave out.”

So, in addition to studying those multiplication tables and significant dates in history, let’s continue to encourage our children to open their minds and explore the infinite world of the arts. The possibilities are endless.

“We’re not trying to turn out only professional artists,” adds Sherry Rowan. “We’re trying to help children develop a lifelong appreciation of the arts. Then, they continue to support the arts in their communities. Oklahoma has done a fabulous job—there’s so much going on here. I’m proud to be part of a movement that nurtures young people.”

Cimarron Circuit Opera Company, Norman

405-364-8962, CCOCOpera.org Opera training and camp for children 9-15.

City Arts Center, OKC

Edmond Fine Arts Institute, Edmond

405-340-4481, EdmondFineArts.com Art and theater classes for children and adults.

Family Theatre Warehouse, Edmond

405-848-7469, FamilyTheaterWarehouse.blogspot.com Drama classes for children of all ages, geared toward home schoolers.

Firehouse Art Center, Norman

405-329-4523, NormanFireHouse.com Art education classes for children and adults.

Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, Norman

405-325-3270, ou.edu/fjjma Lessons and educational programs for children and adults.

Guy Fraser Harrison Academy, OKC

405-232-1199, HarrisonAcademy.org Advanced orchestra for middle- and high-school students.

Lyric Theatre, OKC

405-524-9310, LyricTheatreOKC.com Musical theater training for ages 5 and up.

Mid-Del Art Studio, Midwest City

405-741-6666, StudioMidDel.com Art and theater classes for children and adults.

OCU Performing Arts Academy, OKC

405-208-5000, okcu.edu/music/Academy Music Theater classes and camps for children.

OKC Museum of Art, OKC

405-236-3100, okcmoa.com Art classes and camps for children and adults.

Oklahoma Children’s Theatre, OKC

405-606-7003, OklahomaChildrensTheatre.org Performance and artistic classes and camps for children.

Oklahoma City Ballet, OKC

405-843-9898, BalletOklahoma.com Dance training and instruction for ages 4 and up.

Elizabeth Harvey, a native of Northern Virginia, is a proud stayat-home Mom with an energetic 4-year-old son, Mitchell, and is expecting a baby girl in March. She and her husband are happy to make their home in Edmond

Prairie Dance Theater, OKC

405-923-8440, PrairieDanceOKC.org Modern dance training for public school students.

February 2009

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

19

Character First Responsibility

I

magine this scene: you are hosting a celebration dinner for your parents’ anniversary. A dozen family members are settled around the table, ready to feast on the elaborate meal you’ve spent hours preparing. Everything seems to be going well, until‌ your darling five-year-old declares, “This is YUCKY!â€? at the top of his lungs.

Responsibility is the social force that binds you to the courses of action demanded by that force.

Your first response might be to turn to the person next to you saying, “I’m certain he was switched at birth.� But, as his unappetizing declarations spread to every dish on the table, you realize it will take more than a funny quip to restore peace to family mealtime. The best you can do right now may be to remind your son that this is not the way to behave and if he continues he will be choosing not to eat.

Mealtime battles offer parents a golden opportunity to teach children about responsibility, but the lesson begins long before your family sits down for dinner.

In her book Eating, Sleeping and Getting Up, Dr. Carolyn Crowder asserts that including children in meal preparation provides children with a way to express usefulness as opposed to attempting to express power over you. “They can begin to feel important because of all the helpful things they can do as opposed to feeling important

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February 2009

because they ‘get your goat’ by being disruptive and uncooperative,� Crowder wrote.

Even very young children can help with getting meals ready. Whether it is planning the menu, washing vegetables, setting the table or actually cooking a dish, there is enough work to go around.

And while your child might not be thrilled about eating vegetables, being given the power to choose which one will be served may make them go down easier. “It is impossible to stress enough the importance of giving children chores and responsibilities to complete for the family unit, for this is their means of belonging to the family and being important to the smooth functioning of the household,� Crowder wrote. “Think of these ‘golden opportunities’ as gifts you can give your children and then allow even the youngest ones to help.�

Giving children dinner responsibilities may take a few more minutes than if you’d fixed it yourself. The salad may end up having only lettuce (or only tomatoes if my youngest is charged with that task), but mealtime stress may be cut so much that you don’t even notice that the knife is on the wrong side of the plate.

To read more about dinnertime responsibility try Don’t Let the Peas Touch by Deborah Blumenthal (for preschool and early elementary students).

Slightly older readers will enjoy A Home For Dixie by Emma Jackson. Emma adopts Dixie from the animal shelter and learns that lots of responsibility comes with owning a dog.

Gayleen Rabakukk is a freelance writer who spends her time in Edmond keeping up with her teenage and preschool daughters.

Learn more at

MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ character-first

Spotlight on Character Winner Cara Graham recently displayed the character trait of honor when she gave a speech about her father for the Frontier Days pageant.

“My dad has always been my hero and he is always there for me,” Cara said. In her speech, she shared with the audience the reasons he is her hero. Some of these reasons were humorous— “he’s fun; he can always make me laugh. He’s cool, he always dresses nice.” But other parts of her speech were more serious and illustrated the example he has set for his children and her recognition of his parenting effort. “He is the most dedicated person I know.” She explained that when he went back to school and was working full time at Tinker, Cara and her three siblings were all playing sports. They each had a couple of practices each week and games every Saturday, all at different times and locations.

“He was always there for all our things.” He finished his degree program and got a Bachelor’s in Science from St. Gregory’s, which in turn led to a promotion at Tinker.

The things she said left Cara’s dad, Michael, speechless. “It was one of those moments as a parent that help you realize you may be doing things right. I know the emotions I had from that night were worth all the hard work and sleepless nights we all face as parents.”

The pageant judges were also impressed—Cara was crowned Miss Frontier Days. Cara is a senior at Tecumseh High School and is the daughter of Michael and Michelle Graham.

Catch them doing the

right thing!

Whether the student is a Kindergartner or teen, whether the act is simple or time consuming, we want to hear about your outstanding student. Monthly winner receives a $50 savings bond.

Nominate them for MetroFamily Magazine’s Spotlight on Character Award.

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www.CelebrityAttractions.com • area Homeland stores Groups of 10 or more receive a discount, call (800) 869-1451 x220

Visit MetroFamilyMagazine.com/spotlight-on-character-award for contest details and nomination forms.

February 2009

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21

Let’s Eat: Recipes Romantic Dinner for Two

R

omancing one another for a lifetime can be a challenge. With all of our daily responsibilities and roles, we can sometimes forget how important it is to be carelessly in love.

Take a break from your routine, and give these recipes and the time together in the kitchen a chance to re-kindle the romance. Don’t forget the bubbly! Enjoy!

Scampi Yield 4 portions 3 T butter (no substitutions) 1 T olive oil 1 lb 16/20 count shrimp, peeled, de-veined, rinsed and dried 3 cloves garlic, sliced paper-thin ¼ C dry white wine Juice of 1 lemon Salt and pepper to taste Fresh parsley, roughly chopped Toast points or crostini Preheat a 12 inch sauté pan on medium heat.

Add butter and olive, allowing butter to melt without browning.

Add shrimp in single layer and cook for one minute.

Turn the shrimp over, add garlic, and cook for one minute. If the garlic is starting to brown, remove pan from heat and turn down the flame. You may also want to add the wine to cool down the pan, only if necessary.

Remove shrimp to a plate. Add the wine, lemon, salt, pepper and parsley to the pan to finish the sauce.

To serve, arrange the shrimp on a plate or platter, and pour the garlic butter sauce over the shrimp.

Arugula Salad Serves 4 4 C arugula ½ C pine nuts, toasted ½ C golden raisins ½ C parmesan cheese

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February 2009

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6 T extra virgin olive oil 2 T lemon juice Salt and pepper to taste Combine the arugula, pine nuts, golden raisins, and parmesan cheese in a bowl.

Combine the olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper.

Drizzle the dressing over the arugula mixture, and mix evenly. Serve on chilled salad plates.

Strawberry Shortcakes 1 ¾ C all purpose flour 5 T sugar 1 T baking powder ¼ t salt ¼ C butter, cut into small cubes 1 C cream 1 T orange zest 1 pint strawberries, cut into ¼ pieces (frozen if fresh aren’t available) 2 T sugar or more 2 T Cointreau or Grand Marnier (optional) 2 T whipped cream Sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.

Cut the butter into the dry ingredients with a fork. Add the cream and orange zest and mix just enough to bring the dough together.

Preheat oven to 325º. Cut the shortcakes with a cookie cutter (I usually use a 2”

Mammograms for All Oklahoma Women diameter round cutter, so finished cakes resemble a biscuit).

Place each shortcake on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper and bake about 15 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown on top. .

Meanwhile, place the strawberries, sugar, and liquor in a bowl and mix thoroughly. Reserve.

To serve, place the shortcake on a plate, add desired amount of strawberries, and whipped cream.

Visit my blog at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/blog to find alternative recipes for a romantic dinner—including chicken cacciatore, mussels in garlic broth, tagliatelle puttanesca, and chocolate crepes with strawberries.

Marc Dunham is the Chef de Cuisine for the Ranchers Club at the Atherton Hotel at OSU. Read his blog and find more recipes at MetroFamilyMagazine. com/blog.

Thanks to a grant from Susan G. Komen for the Cure of Central Oklahoma, the OU Cancer Institute is helping ensure that all Oklahoma women receive a mammogram AT NO COST. To qualify to receive a mammogram at no cost, you must be an Oklahoma resident and meet the following financial guidelines: Family Size - Annual Income 1 - $41,600 2 - $56,000 3 - $70,400 4 - $84.800 To schedule an appointment call (405) 271-4514 Mention Event 86 at the time you book your appointment Mammograms will be performed at the OU Breast Institute 825 NE 10th Street, Suite 3500, Oklahoma City

Find more recipes at

Complimentary valet parking, or if preferred, weather-protected self-parking

MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ recipes

The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity institution (#45778. 12/08)

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We’re looking for ffamilies ili who ho want to challen challenge themselves and take charge of their health.

Join our online community and learn steps you can take to get fit and eat better. Follow the training advice, get moving and take the challenge with us on April 5, 2009 to walk or run the RedBud Classic in Nichols Hills. There may even be fun surprises along the way!

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23

Oklahoma Reads Book Reviews Picture books for Preschoolers

Non-fiction for grades 4-6

Mitch & Max Visit the Farm

Uncover a Dolphin

(CQ Products, Spiral-bound $12)

by David George Gordon (Silver Dolphin Books, book with embedded model, $18.95)

This deceptively simple book will be a hit with younger children.

Read the story, match the animals, guess the animal sound, make new animals, search for animal parts, or mix up the animals on purpose.

Read it to your child or let her play with the book, the laminated pages resist destruction. A great book to stash in your purse or the car.

Curious children can virtually dissect an animal through this book with embedded plastic model. Learn about what makes a dolphin swim so well, how its bone structure is unique, how this sea mammal breathes, eats, sees, hears, reproduces and survives in the deep, wide oceans.

Fiction for grades 1-3 Kung Fu Panda Create-A-Story

Fiction for grades 5 and up

(Brighter Minds Media, hardcover spiral-bound, $9.95)

Hoobachoo

by Robert B. Davis (Tate publishing, softcover, $12.99)

Fans of the DreamWorks hit movie “Kung Fu Panda� will love to recreate the movie with this flip book with four separate panels per page that let him choose the location, character and actions that happen. Your child can create thousands of story variations while sneakily learning about sentence structure.

What exactly is a Hoobachoo? Well, according to this book, it’s a monkey.

And like a monkey, this book is a bit crafty. Wrapped up in a tale about a Hoobachoo monkey society are lessons on the importance of education. While setting out on a quest for a mythical, magical banana, the monkeys must use science, history and math lessons to be successful. A fun, far-flung adventure by an Oklahoma author.

Reviews by MetroFamily Magazine editor Mari Farthing.

Your Walk-in Arts & Crafts Place

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Lots of crafts to choose from at Unpluggits Play Studio!

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February 2009

Take Back Your Family

by Rev Run and Justine Simmons with Chris Morrow (Gotham Books, $25) Last week, you got exactly fifteen words from your teenager. Your younger children were much chattier, but you can barely keep up with everything they yammer about: school, friends, music, TV. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re growing up so fast, and it seems like theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re doing it without you. Werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t they babies, like, ten days ago? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Take back your familyâ&#x20AC;? says Rev Run and Justine Simmons in their new book with the same title. You didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have kids so you could miss out on their upbringing, so put the brakes on your busy life and enjoy your family again.

If you watch â&#x20AC;&#x153;Runâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Houseâ&#x20AC;? on MTV, you might think that being a good parent is easyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Rev Run sure makes it look like it is. But, hey, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hollywood for you. Cameras can make anything look real.

But in this case, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Runâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Houseâ&#x20AC;? is real. Rev Run says he counts Brad Pitt among his fans, but stardom hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t gone to Revâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s head. Run practices what he preaches, and in this book, he teaches, too.

There are a lot of firsts in Take Back Your Family. Number One, always keep your marriage first. That doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean you should neglect your kids, but that the relationship you have with your spouse (or other parent, if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re single) should be a united one. As long as you support your other half in the family, your kids will have a strong web on which to rely.

your family in front of work, play, and anything that would take you away from your kids. And if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got a job that requires a lot of traveling, Run says you should look for work closer to home, at least until your kids are grown.

Get rid of clutter, both physical and emotional. Make your kids feel â&#x20AC;&#x153;large.â&#x20AC;? Treat your family like a well-run business. Make hugs imperative and openly show affection to your spouse.

Know whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going on in your childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives and at their school. Promote an attitude of gratitude. Pull together on bad days as well as good. And be willing to let your children go when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time.

Ahhh. In the category of family care books, this is a breath of fresh air.

Althoughâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;like most parenting booksâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;much of Take Back Your Family is common sense, things like this always bear repeating and seem to mean more when you see them in print.

That doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean this book is boring. Authors Rev Run and Justine Simmons will surprise you with some unconventional advice.

I also enjoyed this book because of the behind-the-scenes peeks, because it didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seem preachy, and because this â&#x20AC;&#x153;parentingâ&#x20AC;? book also included some solid advice on relationships.

No matter what your family looks like, and no matter how well your kids behave, this is good to have on your bookshelf.

Take Back Your Family is a book youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll take out often.

Terri Schlichenmeyer has been reading since she was three years old and she never goes anywhere without a book. She lives on a hill in Wisconsin with two dogs and 11,000 books.

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25

You are a creative individual. Whether at home or at work, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t settle. You set higher standards for yourself and your family. Driven from within, you strive to improve. You seek new solutions to common everyday problems as a parent, writer, artisan, driver, designer, chef, decorator, conversationalist, mentor and friend. The dance of the creative process moves you and lifts your spirits in indescribable ways.

Modern life, however, commands your attention. Turbulent times brought on by new communication devices, market volatility, the drive to succeed and the continuous responsibilities of daily living block your natural creative flow.

Awash in the current of day-to-day busyness, overwhelmed by the tidal wave of meetings, phone calls, text messages and emails, you unwittingly forfeit your most prized asset: your creativity.

With distractions abounding, how do you avoid drowning in the sea of busyness?

Carve Out Creative Space Modern life doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t support creativity. The more technology we have, the more distracted we become. The human mind favors a quiet space to create. Set up the conditions necessary for a creative, inspiring environment.

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Block off creative time on your calendar, and honor that time like you would a doctor’s appointment or an important meeting.

• If you’re creating at your computer, close your email and shut off your cell phone—and don’t forget the ringer on your landline, too.

• If possible, shut your door to mute the distractions of other activities.

• Plan escapes from your usual work environment. How many creative ideas come to you while staring at your computer while in your office? Perhaps there’s good reason why great ideas get sketched on paper napkins in coffee shops.

Welcome the Wanderer Reflection need not be the exclusive enjoyment of poets and artists. All creative work requires an inner space for the mind to wander aimlessly. Occasional periods of reverie allow thoughts to incubate and form new connections, yet the value and significance of this reflective state is not acknowledged in modern culture. Our fanatical focus on constant activity stifles creativity, leaving the Wanderer no room to explore.

Learn to simply stop and listen. Appreciate the innate beauty around you; feel grateful for your existence. Seek natural surroundings. Hear the chorus of rustling leaves, the cadence of people walking. Find your inner center. Allow your thoughts to sink into the ocean depths. Welcome the Wanderer and his creative renaissance back into your life.

Elevate your Consciousness Psychiatrist and consciousness researcher David R. Hawkins, author of the bestseller Power vs. Force: The Anatomy of Consciousness, reveals that creativity comes from a higher level of consciousness. The works of “creative geniuses” tend to be aligned to powerful energy fields, the same fields associated with love, gratitude and devotion.

How do you elevate your consciousness to align to fields that induce high-powered creativity? Live by basic spiritual dictums: Be kind to everything and everyone, including yourself; revere all life; approach all of life with humility.

Devote time to something greater than yourself—your family, a loved one, humanity or divinity.

Embrace Problems Problems are the life force of creative endeavor, not the enemy.

Without problems, we wouldn’t innovate. We have a tendency, however, to resist problems. Learning to let go of our resistance to problems allows us to harness creative tension.

Learn to love the “unanswerable” questions. Embrace failure as a launching pad for success.

• Breathe deeply and consciously—especially during your creative time.

• Drink water throughout the day. Many of us live in a continual state of dehydration. Physiological stress induced by dehydration makes it difficult to focus and think clearly.

• Sit up straight. Slouching collapses your diaphragm and leads to shallow breathing, disrupting the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide needed for relaxation. Before you know it, lethargy sets in and a nap becomes more desirable than creative work.

• Pay attention to your blood-sugar levels. When you feel your brain “check out,” have a piece of fruit, an energy bar or a handful of mixed nuts to give you some energy.

Praise the Muse Creative geniuses generally don’t take credit for their work; instead, they credit a “higher power” as the source of their inspiration. William Blake called it “Poetic Genius.” Puccini said his greatest opera Madame Butterfly was “dictated to me

by God.” Both Brahms and Beethoven appealed directly to the “Creator Himself.” And, in recounting his experience with the creative process, Mozart said, “What has been thus produced I do not easily forget, and this is perhaps the best gift I have my Divine Maker to thank for.”

Creative individuals need not wrestle between the polarities of false modesty and overt narcissism. If your thoughts aren’t personal, can you take credit for them? Humility is the trademark of creative genius—available to all, accepted by the treasured few.

Champion a Positive Attitude In our culture of cynics and critics, the creative individual must guard his creative space and the rituals that support it. Naysayers ignorantly block the manifestation of creative thoughts. Rise above pervasive negativity to embrace optimism, which is bountiful in creative inspiration. Creative ideas arise from minds that allow them. This doesn’t mean optimists can’t also be realistic—practical optimism serves an important function in ideation when combined with patience and perseverance. Trust that you’ll find creative solutions.

Transcend negativity with a simple smile. A positive attitude may not make you popular with certain family members, friends and colleagues, but it will help you foster a creative life of greater fulfillment.

The creative life is calling to you and an ocean of potential with untold treasures awaits. Be the creative soul courageous enough to sail its waters and tame the aquatic beasts that rule the domain of busyness, demands and delusions.

Everything you need is within you. Your creative adventure lies ahead.

Revitalize your Physical Energy The relationship between creative endeavor and physical energy is often understated. How can we expect to produce creative work when we’re sluggish or stressed?

• Take a break. Get up and stretch or move. Stagnation hinders the creation of new ideas.

Scott Jeffrey, strategic coach and author of Creativity Revealed: Discovering the Source of Inspiration, shows readers how to tap into the source of creativity and harness it for greater personal and professional success. Scott is a managing partner at Nonbox Consulting, a creative problem-solving think tank that works with clients to tackle difficult business decisions with ingenuity and psychological insights. ScottJeffrey.com February 2009

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27

Exploring Oklahoma Romantic Guthrie

T

rying to dream up the perfect gift for your loved one this Valentine’s Day? Since this month’s heartfilled holiday falls on a Saturday, a short trip for two may be the perfect way to say “I love you.” Guthrie, the Bed & Breakfast Capital of Oklahoma, is the perfect setting for Mom and Dad to get revitalized.

My husband grew up in Guthrie and we are very familiar with the local area. We find Guthrie to be a great destination when we don’t have time for a longer trip but still feel the need to escape.

Saturday (most museums are closed on Sundays).

for rate package information and further details..

The Pollard Inn (124 W Harrison) is located in the heart of downtown Guthrie, with 20 rooms decorated with period antiques. The main building, which originally housed Guthrie Savings Bank, was built in 1902. The large room windows overlook downtown Guthrie’s many shops. For reservations and rates, call 405-282-1000, 1-800-375-1001 or visit PollardInn.biz.

Dinner

Keepsake Kottage (310 E Oklahoma Ave) is a romantic bed and breakfast just a block from downtown. Built Where to Stay in 1904, this property offers you two choices: The Keepsake Kottage or the Begin your planning by making a Honeymoon Kottage. Both are extremely reservation at any of the many bed and private and offer full amenities breakfast inns located throughout the including fireplaces and Jacuzzi tubs. city. Most are within walking distance Upon arrival, homemade desserts will to the city’s activities and you are sure be awaiting you. In the morning, just to find one that meets your fancy. If pop the ready-made breakfast casserole only staying one night, I recommend into the oven. For reservations, call 405Friday so you can enjoy a full day on 282-8085 or visit KeepsakeKottage. com.

DOES YOUR CHILD HAVE ADHD

AND / OR A LEARNING DISABILITY IN READING (DYSLEXIA)?

Your child may be eligible to take part in a research study.

• ADHD is a condition in which a child is easily distracted.

• It is hard for the child to pay attention or wait for his or her turn.

• It is tough for the child to sit without fidgeting and squirming, or jumping up to do something else.

• Children with ADHD act first and think later.

• Children with reading disabilities (dyslexia) have persistent problems with reading.

If this sounds like your child, take this opportunity to learn more about your child’s behavior and this study.

A pharmaceutical company is studying an investigational medication that may help girls and boys who experience these symptoms.

If your boy or girl is between the ages of 10 and 16 and has ADHD and / or a reading disability contact: CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF OKLAHOMA CHILD STUDY CENTER AT 405-271-5700 EXT. #45167 THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY INSTITUTION 28

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February 2009

Once my husband and I check in, we take a horse carriage tour and ask to be dropped off at one of the eating establishments. Guthrie offers several dinner date choices.

Hastings Steakhouse (312 E Oklahoma) is located in an historic downtown building. Hastings offers linen-covered dining with a full-course meal. While they do not provide a bar, you are welcome to bring your own bottle of wine and your server will happily chill and serve it for you.

Granny-Had-One, Eatery Bar & Grill (113 W Harrison) provides a more casual but cozy, old-fashioned atmosphere in an ornate circa 1891 building. Open Thursday through Saturday evenings until 8pm, Granny offers home-made menu items or salad and dinner buffets.

Delicious homemade breads and desserts are also available. For menu and full operational hours, review their website AtGrannyHadOne.biz.

For a little romance with some suspense, pay a visit to Evening at the Theatre the Stone Lion Since your stay is in celebration of Inn, The White Valentine’s Day, going to see Pollard Peacock, Red Theatre’s live February production Brick and Roses, of Neil Simon’s romantic comedy, or The Cottage “Barefoot in the Park,” is a must. The and take part in Pollard Theatre (120 W Harrison) was a murder mystery an early silent movie and vaudeville dinner. While not house in the 1920s before becoming necessary for your Oklahoma’s first full-sound motion stay, the murder picture house. Renovated in 1986, the mystery dinner can Pollard Theatre is now home to a local be an entertaining performing arts company and puts on at addition to your least six productions per year. Be sure adult weekend. and buy your tickets early; call 405-282Guests at the 2800 or visit ThePollard.org.

Stone Lion Inn, a restored VictorianAfter the show, you may want a snack era mansion, have and night cap before turning in for the also been known night. Stroll down to the Blue Belle to experience Saloon (224 W Harrison), one of the “ghostly” surprises. oldest original saloons in Oklahoma Reservations for Territory—with a few old bullet holes all properties may from the rough and tumble days to prove be made by calling it. You may even get a chance to join in 405-282-0012. Visit for some Karaoke.

StoneLionInn.com

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t-Miss Sites Simply stroll Guthrieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic streets and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll run across enough antique shops, art galleries and museums to keep you busy. Several must-sees include: â&#x20AC;˘ The State Capital Publishing Museum, 301 W Harrison, 405-282-4123 OKHistory.org/Outreach/Museums/ PublishingMuseum.html â&#x20AC;˘ Oklahoma Territorial Museum, 406 E Oklahoma, 405-282-1889 OklahomaTerritorialMuseum.org â&#x20AC;˘ Scottish Rite Masonic Temple (the original state capital building), 900 E Oklahoma, GuthrieScottishRite.org â&#x20AC;˘ The Oklahoma Sports Museum, 315 W Oklahoma Ave, 405-282-1281 OklahomaSportsMuseum.org

â&#x20AC;˘ R & R Restaurant, 420 W Oklahoma Ave, 405-260-0700 TheOldSantaFeDepotofGuthrie.com The historic Santa Fe depot, once an important stop on the Interurban rail system, is now home to this unique restaurant. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll take a trip back in time as the trains still rumble through about every 15 minutes. The menu offers everything from steaks and fish to deli sandwiches, chicken-friedchicken, pizza and salads. A delicious bakery offers mouth-watering desserts.

After lunch, visit the international model train and car museum located in the building and ask the attendant to start any of the elaborate, detailed model train displays.

be ready to come back by next weekend!

But this time, bring the kids!

For information on the many other overnight accommodations and attractions available in Guthrie, check the Guthrie Chamber of Commerce website at GuthrieOK.com or contact them at 405-282-1947.

Karen Mitchell, a life-long resident of the Oklahoma City metro area, has been married to Mark since 1983 and is the mother of two teenagers. With a degree in Journalism and a career in sales, Karen is enjoying her return to writing.

Renewed Energy Once you and your other half have spent this relaxing trip back in time, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll feel revived and ready to get back to your daily routine. Of course, you may

Find more close-to-home travel ideas at

MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ Exploring-Oklahoma

Chess Camp 13th Annual USA Chess National Summer Chess Camp Tour USA Chess is the largest and premier summer chess camp organizer for children in the U.S. with more than 100 schools nationwide. Our staff is comprised of the finest children's chess instructors in North America. Beginners through advanced, ages 5-16 are welcome. Campers experience a fun filled week while learning the skills needed to play casual and/or competitive chess. Tuition includes tee-shirt, trophy, chess board and pieces and much more.

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29

Iron Moms Tips for Beginning Runners What does it mean to be an “Iron Mom”? To MetroFamily, an Iron Mom is one who recognizes the importance of her health, the health of her children, and the health of the community. An Iron Mom reads the labels, takes the stairs, and makes the best choices possible for her family.

MetroFamily invites you to join our Iron Moms movement.

Visit MetroFamilyMagazine/Iron-Moms to learn more.

S

pring time is not far away. This means that many people begin thinking about training for a spring run. Local spring runs, such as the Redbud Classic and the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon are great events that motivate many who have never run before to start. Here are some important tips for those who may be starting their first training program.

• Start Small. It is important to set a challenging, but reachable goal. If this is your first time to train for a run, start with a shorter distance such as a 5K (3.1 miles). If you try to train for a longer distance you may become overwhelmed both physically and mentally, which could lead to injury and disappointment from not being able to attain your goal. If you find

that you really enjoy this you can always train for a longer distance in the future.

• Invest in a good pair of running shoes. Do not begin training with an old pair of shoes that you wore to play softball 10 years ago. Proper running shoes are very important and not having a good pair may lead to injury.

I recommend going to a local shoe store that specializes in running shoes.

These stores have people skilled in finding the right shoe to meet your individual needs, based on your foot type and running gait.

• Find a running partner. As with any exercise program, your adherence to the program will be much greater if you have someone else right there, holding you accountable. This also helps decrease the boredom that sometimes comes after several weeks of training alone.

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February 2009

As always, be sure to contact your doctor before beginning any training program.

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

WEEK 1

REST

20 min total: alternate 1 minute run / 2 minute walk

REST

Repeat Monday

Cross-Training Day

REST

Repeat Monday

WEEK 2

REST

20 min total: alternate 2 minute run / 2 minute walk

REST

Repeat Monday

Cross-Training Day

REST

20 min total: alternate 3 minute run / 2 minute walk

WEEK 3

REST

20 min total: alternate 4 minute run / 2 minute walk

REST

Repeat twice: Run 1/2 mile / walk 2 minutes

Cross-Training Day

REST

1 mile continuous run

WEEK 4

REST

Repeat 3 times: run 1/2 mile / walk 2 minutes

REST

Repeat 3 times: Cross-Training Day run 1/2 mile / walk 1.5 minutes

REST

1.5 mile continuous run

• Cross-Train. This refers to participating in any type of exercise (other than running) at least once a week. Examples of these activities may be biking, swimming, playing basketball, or even weight training.

Doing a different type of activity places a different demand on the body’s bones, joints, and muscles.

This reduces the chance of injury that may result from doing too much of just one type of exercise. Also, adding variety reduces the monotony of your training program.

The above chart shows the first half of an eight week training program for those with the goal of finishing their first 5k run. The goal of this program is to train the individual to be able to run continuously for 3.1 miles (5k). While it is important to stay close to the program outline, you should listen to your body and allow more walk or rest time when needed. All of these runs are meant to begin with a warmup of walking for five minutes and

followed by a cool-down of five minutes.

Next month we’ll include the second half of the program. Get started now and run the Redbud with MetroFamily.

Find more healthy living ideas at Chris Crawford, MS, NSCA-CPT, NASMPES, is co-owner of 180 Personal Training in Edmond.

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31

In Touch With Relationships The Arts and Your Teen

A

dolescence can be a challenging time for both youth and parents.

A child’s identity transfers from a primary reliance on their family to their peers. From a family development perspective, this is normal and expected; however, teens and parents often struggle with this shift and may experience significant amounts of stress.

Teens may become caught between a continued need for parental approval and acceptance and the emerging need to join their peers in the race for autonomy. The volatility of what

Our culture’s need for effective leadership will likely be influenced by the creative and artistic minds of today’s youth.

is “cool” in the peer group is harder to predict than the quickly changing Oklahoma winds; this often manifests in your child as a sense of vulnerability, lack of confidence, and weakened selfesteem.

a showing or performance). Similar support from teachers and other role models provides further encouragement.

Equally important is support, encouragement and participation of others in your child’s peer group.

Engaging a teen in an extracurricular activity can provide a positive counterbalance to this peer group volatility. Positive activities such as community-based programs, church youth groups, part-time work, or individual lessons (such as music or art) engage teens in a way that may help to keep them from negative activities, including drugs, gangs or other antisocial behavior.

It can be a delicate balance to support your teen while also respecting his need for boundaries and autonomy.

Talking with him to make plans for your involvement may help relieve tension.

Children greatly benefit from parental or other adult encouragement for their involvement in artistic endeavors. A recently-published psychological study indicates that teens identified positive support and encouragement from family members, teachers and peers as having a significant impact on their sustained INFANT • TODDLER • PRESCHOOL • PRE-K interest in arts.

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February 2009

Additional research in the area of teens and the arts shows that children often learn effective skills, such as collaboration, conflict resolution and stress-coping tools when they are involved in a peer-based creative environment. These skills contribute greatly to their development of personal responsibility, confidence, self-esteem, and autonomy.

This social development is critical to prepare your teen for the next stages of life, including college and work.

Our culture’s need for effective leadership will likely be influenced by the creative and artistic minds of As parents, you today’s youth. The above principles can support your of support for our youths’ positive teen by offering interest can be generalized to all areas encouragement of extracurricular activities. However, followed by the arts seem to present a unique assistance and opportunity for families to appreciate participation and encourage the development of (such as attending effective autonomy through the special Women’s artistic talents of NEW Self-Defense Class our youth.

Learn Chinese Kung Fu, designed to enable smaller defenders to defeat stronger attackers Saturdays 9-10:15am (Female 13+) Eight-Week Course Call Today! Sonlight Martial Arts Complete class description at wingchunokc.com/self_defense.htm 4526 NW 16 OKC 314-6727

Dr. Paul Tobin is a health services psychologist and active member of the American Psychological Association and the Oklahoma Psychological Association. He works with children and adults within the offices of Paul Tobin, Ph.D., PC and Ann Benjamin, M.Ed., Inc.

Family Finances Shopping Locally

T

oday’s consumer has many choices, whether shopping online or shopping locally. With the continual expansion of e-commerce, local businesses face fierce competition to attract buyers. Increased competition tends to lower prices, providing greater incentives for consumers to shop around before making a final decision.

Sometimes, however, the best price is not always the best deal.

It is estimated that one dollar spent at a locallyowned business will return five times that amount within the community.

A recent study by the Pew Research Center shows that two out of three Americans who use the Internet have purchased a product online. In addition, the study found that over 60% of those using the Internet in 2007 researched a product online—double the amount in the year 2000. The study, however, is not all positive. The same report shows that over half of the people who make online purchases said they were frustrated, confused or overwhelmed with problems encountered while shopping online. The study also finds that people are still concerned about entering personal data, such as credit card numbers, on a Web site.

In addition to concerns about personal data and other related issues, consumers need to consider the potential impact of their shopping decisions. Saving money online for a specific purchase may end up having higher costs than anticipated.

For example, most online purchases do not include local sales taxes which are needed to provide fire and safety protection here at home. As local sales tax revenue declines, local communities may face difficult choices of cutting services or raising the tax rates.

Some studies show that locally-owned businesses re-spend about 80% of their income within the local community.

Using an economic concept called the “multiplier effect,” it is estimated that one dollar spent at a locally-owned business will return five times that amount within the community through city taxes, employees’ wages and

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purchase of materials and supplies at other independent businesses. In addition, these businesses will return that dollar to the community through school funding, social services and contributions to local non-profit organizations.

Local chains also return money to the community in much the same way, even though the multiplier effect is somewhat lower.

Following are several factors to consider when making choices about where to make your next purchase: • Shopping locally supports local jobs.

With today’s economic environment, providing local jobs helps ensure local communities will maintain lower unemployment rates. Lower unemployment tends to translate into more prosperous communities, lower crime rates and less demand for tax dollars to provide unemployment compensation.

• Shopping locally provides local tax dollars. Fire, police, water, sewer, roads and other city services are highly dependent on sales tax revenue from local purchases. Maintaining the city’s infrastructure is critically important to promoting and protecting property values.

• Shopping locally protects local businesses. Having strong, vibrant local businesses creates greater competition which then increases the availability of future goods and services while reducing the price paid for them. Local competition fosters a community of growth and prosperity, serving as a magnet for a greater variety of local services. Empty store fronts and abandoned property offers little incentive for other merchants to expand. Supporting local businesses ensures that other necessary services, such as grocery stores, restaurants, hair dressers and pet groomers, remain open as well.

• Shopping locally supports local culture. Each community is somewhat unique and has its own sense of character, which is the reason you choose to live there. Unique

shopping areas such as downtown Edmond or the newly-developed Town Center near Tinker offer a sense of pride and community spirit not found online. Local merchants are also more likely to provide monetary support of local causes, local schools and other local needs.

REAL VALUE You might be surprised how affordable an OU education is.

REAL FACULTY • REAL DEGREE

• Shopping locally increases potential for quality customer service. As evidenced in the Pew Study, not all shopping experiences are positive.

When products fail to work or meet consumer expectations, local merchants are much more likely to provide quality service options to resolve the problem resulting in a higher standard of service. Numerous services show shoppers receive better customer care and service from local sellers who are concerned about preserving their local reputations and ensure repeat business.

E Earn a bachelor’s oor master’s degree ffrom the University oof Oklahoma iin as little as 16-24 months

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MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ Family-Finances

through independent study or by attending concentrated weekend

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or evening classes.

University OUTREACH College of Continuing Education

Author or Signings • Sto Story Time • Art Activities • Puzzles • Journals • Audio Books & More!

College of Liberal Studies

Kickingbird Square Danforth & Bryant • Edmond

340-9202

Locally owned and operated Mon —Sat 9a - 8p • Sun 1-5p

outreach.ou.edu

www.bestofbooksedmond.com February 2009

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

35

Quick Reference City Arts Center Fair Park, 3000 Pershing Blvd, OKC 951-0000, CityArtsCenter.org.

Fine Arts Institute of Edmond 27 E. Edwards, Edmond 340-4481, EdmondFineArts.com Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art 555 Elm Ave, Norman 325-3272, ou.edu/fjjma Little River Zoo Hwy 9, Norman 366-7229, LittleRiverZoo.com

Weekly

OKCCivicCenter.com.

Make & Take craft activities at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May, OKC) 11am-3pm every Saturday. Free for kids 3 and up. 858-8778, LakeshoreLearning.com.

Arts of the Amazon from the Museum of the Red River at Shawnee’s Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art. Opening reception February 6, 7-9pm. Free. 878-5300, MGMOA.org.

Children’s Story Time at Edmond’s Best of Books, Saturdays, 11-11:30am. 340-9202.

Family Fun Night at JumpZone (SW 104th & Western) 4:30-8pm every Tuesday and Thursday. 2 adults, 2 children, 1 large pizza, 2 liter pop for $25. For open play hours call 200-1691, JumpZoneParty.com.

StoryTime at Gymboree Penn Square, first Friday of every month, 10am. 842-7540.

February 6–March 29

February 25-March 1

The Diary of Anne Frank at the Kirkpatrick Auditorium, 11am. $7 for children 2-12, $10 13 and up. 951-0011, OklahomaChildrensTheatre.org.

February 27-March 1

22nd Annual Backwoods Hunting and Fishing Expo at the State Fairgrounds, 12-8pm. Admission $7.

BackwoodsShow.com.

Myriad Botanical Gardens 301 W Reno, OKC 297-3995, MyriadGardens.com

Silly Sundays at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise Dr, Edmond) Every Sunday, 1-6pm. Free face painting with paid admission or craft purchase. 340-7584, Unpluggits.com.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC 478-2250, NationalCowboyMuseum.org

Tired GrownUps Night at Unpluggits Playstudio. Every Thursday from 4-8pm. Reduced admission price, free snacks. 340-7584, Unpluggits.com.

Oklahoma Aquarium 300 Aquarium Dr, Jenks 918-296-FISH, OKAquarium.org

The UCO Jazz Lab features performances each Friday and Saturday at 8pm. $7 adults, $5 age 12 and under.

359-7989, UCOJazzLab.com.

OKC Museum of Art 415 Couch Dr, OKC 236-3100, okcmoa.com

Children’s Storytime at Full Circle Bookstore (1900 NW Expressway) every Saturday, 10:15am. 842-2900, FullCircleBooks.com

OKC National Memorial 620 N Harvey, OKC 235-3313, OklahomaCityNationalMemorial.org

Drop in Art at the OKC Museum of Art. Held every Saturday 1-4pm. Create art inspired by the Museum’s collection, exhibitions, and special occasions. Free with paid admission.

Edmond’s Melodies: A Music Exhibit at the Edmond Historical Society & Museum. Features Edmond’s musical past and explores just how much music affects our everyday life. EdmondHistory.org.

Sunday Nature Hikes at Martin Park Nature Center.

Guided park tour and nature hike each Sunday 2:30pm.

Reservations and a fee of $2 are required. 755-0676.

Through May 1

OKC Zoo 2101 NE 50th St, OKC 424-3344, OKCZoo.com Oklahoma Children’s Theatre 2501 N Blackwelder, OKC 606-7003, OklahomaChildrensTheatre.org Oklahoma Heritage Center 13th & Shartel, OKC 235-4458, OklahomaHeritage.com Oklahoma History Center 2401 N Laird Ave, OKC 522-5248, OklahomaHistoryCenter.org Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History 2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman 325-4712, snomnh.ou.edu Science Museum Oklahoma 2100 NE 52nd St, OKC 602-OMNI, ScienceMuseumOK.org

Do you have an event for our calendar?

Email it to Calendar Editor Terri Fields, Calendar@MetroFamilyMagazine.com.

36

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

Through February 28

Barefoot in the Park at the Pollard Theater in Guthrie, 8pm. Tickets $17.50. 282-2800, ThePollard.org

Through Febraury

Free admission to the OKC Zoo on Mondays.

Trout fishing at Dolese Youth Park Pond, Northwest OKC. See page 10 for details.

Through March 14

Thursday Noon Tunes at the Downtown Library, 11:301pm. Free live music each Thursday.

Gardens in Focus photography exhibit at the Myriad Botanical Gardens features works by local artists of all ages and skill levels who placed in the Gardens in Focus photography contest.

Wing Chun women’s self-defense classes, Saturdays at 9am. $60 per month. 314-6727, WingChunOKC.com.

Through July 12

Monthly

Gymboree of Norman Family Arts Studio is held the third Saturday, 11am-noon. Includes arts & crafts for children 18mos–5 years. $5 per child. Reservations required; 307-8454, GymboreeClasses.com.

February 5-April 19

Harlem Renaissance at the Museum of Art. Explore African American art of the 1920s and 1930s and its lasting legacy. Includes more than 100 paintings, sculptures, and photographs.

February 6-March 1

Theatrical play, Look Back in Anger, at the Civic Center Music Hall, 8pm. Tickets $16. 297-2264, February 2009

Did She Kill ‘em All?! Martha Maxwell, Colorado Huntress Exhibit at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. Explore Maxwell’s life and career.

1 • Sunday

Harlem Globetrotters at the Ford Center, 1pm. Tickets $15 and up. 602-8700, OKFordCenter.com.

2 • Monday

Vietnamese New Year Festival at 1001 N Penn, 1pm.

Enjoy the Vietnamese tradition through performing arts, folk dance and music. 818-0881.

Groundhog Day at the OKC Zoo, 10am. The Zoo’s wild meteorologists make their annual prediction.

OU Sooners Women’s Basketball take on the Tenessee Lady Vols, 10am. Tickets $10 and up.

FEBRUARY S 602-8700, OKFordCenter.com.

Free Admission to the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History.

2-13

Book drive benefitting Project Transformation. Bring new or gently used children’s book to UPS Store, 2410 W. Memorial Road (across from Quail Springs Mall).

418-2225.

4 • Wednesday

The Oklahoma City Thunder play the Denver Nuggets at the Ford Center, 7pm. Other home games this month: 2/6, 8, 17, and 24. Tickets, visit OKFordCenter.com.

4-20

The Arkansaw Bear at the Children’s Center for the Arts, 11am. $5 children 2-12, $7 13 and up. 951-0011, OklahomaChildrensTheatre.org.

5 • Thursday

Early Season Vegetables Seminar at Oklahoma County OSU Extension Center, 1:30-3pm. Learn the best methods for planting onions, potatoes, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, broccoli and green peas.

Free. 713-1125.

6 • Friday

The 8th Annual Polar Plunge in Norman benefits Special Olympics Oklahoma. Hal Helman Field (1500 Jenkins). 10am registration, noon plunge. Also held 2/28 in OKC at Bass Pro Shop. 10am registration, 11am plunge. Call 1-800-722-9004 or visit sook.org for details and other locations out of the Metro area.

Volunteer orientation and interviewing at the OKC Zoo. Call 425-0275 for details.

The OKC Blazers take on the Colorado Eagles at the Ford Center, 7:10pm. Other games held this month: 2/10, 25, 27, and 28. Tickets, OKFordCenter.com.

M

T

W

T

F

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

Metropolitan Library System MetroLibrary.org

8 • Sunday

Winter Wind Concert at the Norman Depot, 7pm.

Featuring Radoslav Lorkovic. Tickets $10. Also held 2/22. 307-9320.

Piano Masterworks:Romance of Chopin at the Downtown Library, 2-3pm with Master pianist Wayne McEvilly. Free.

9 • Monday

Belle Isle, 5501 N Villa, 843-9601 Bethany, 3510 N Mueller, 789-8363 Capitol Hill, 334 SW 26th, 634-6308 Choctaw, 2525 Muzzy, 390-8418 Del City, 4509 SE 15th, 672-1377 Downtown, 300 Park Ave, 231-8650

Make a Valentine Craft at the Guthrie Public Library, 3:30-4:30pm. For PreK-8th grade. Also held 2/10.

282-0050.

Edmond, 10 S Boulevard, 341-9282

9-15

Ralph Ellison, 2000 NE 23rd, 424-1437

Midwest City, 8143 E Reno, 732-4828 Southern Oaks, 6900 S Walker, 631-4468

Winter Tales Storytelling Festival at the Stage Center.

The ancient art of storytelling with workshops, matinees, and performances. 270-4848, ArtsCouncilOKC.com.

First Responders Week at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History. Free admission for all Police, Fire Department, and EMT personnel and their families.

6-8

10 • Tuesday

Harrah, 1930 N Church Ave, 454-2001

An Affair of the Heart at the OKC Fairgrounds, 9am6pm. An array of gift items, antiques, collectibles and gourmet foods. Admission $6. 632-2652, AAOTH.com.

7 • Saturday

OKC Philharmonic presents Reinventing the Past: Part II at the Civic Center Music Hall, 8pm. Tickets $12 and up. 842-5387, OKCPhilharmonic.org The 25th Omelette Party–Harlem Egg-aissance benefitting the OKC Museum of Art at the Bricktown Events Center, 7pm-Midnight. Live music by Banana Seat and gourmet omelettes. Tickets $75 in advance and $100 at the door.

9th Annual Daddy Daughter Dance at Embassy Suites in Norman. Three dances: 2:30–4pm, 5–6:30pm, 7:30–9pm. Tickets $8. 366-5492, NormanFun.com.

Eagle Watch at Lake Thunderbird State Park Nature Center, 9am-noon. Also held 2/21. 321-4633.

The Firehouse Art Center presents the 27th Annual Chocolate Festival at Norman High School, 11:30am2pm. $18 non-members, $15 members. 329-4523, NormanFirehouse.com.

S

CSI: Can You Solve the Mystery at the Mabel C. Fry Public Library, 7pm. For 6th grade and up. Free.

354-8232.

Valentine Window Art at the OKC Museum of Art, 1010:45am. Create a colorful window decoration. For 1536 months with parent. $7 members, $9 nonmembers.

Pre-registration required.

The Village, 10307 N Penn, 755-0710 Warr Acres, 5901 NW 63rd, 721-2616 Jones, 111 E Main, 399-5471 Luther, 310 NE 3rd, 277-9967 Nicoma Park, 2240 Overholser, 769-9452 Wright Library, 2101 Exchange, 235-5035

Pioneer Library System

Financial Peace University at Allegiance Credit Union.

A 13 week course. Held at the South and Meridan Office locations. Tuesdays 6-8pm. Membership $99. For more information 789-7900, Allegiancecu.org.

pls.lib.ok.us

11 • Wednesday

Moore, 225 S Howard, 793-5100

Blanchard, 300 N Main, 485-2275 McLoud, 133 N Main, 964-2960

Origami Valentines at the Midwest City Library, 5:307:30pm. Reservations required. For ages 10-16.

Newcastle, 705 NW Tenth, 387-5076

12 • Thursday

Norman, 225 N Webster, 701-2600

Harlem Renaissance Teacher Workshop at the OKC Museum of Art, 5-8pm. An in-depth study of the special exhibition, Harlem Renaissance. Hear from guest speakers and participate in hands-on activities. $10 (materials and boxed meal provided). Pre-registration required.

February 2009

Noble, 204 N 5th, 872-5713 Purcell, 919 N Ninth, 527-5546 Shawnee, 101 N Philadelphia, 275-6353 Tecumseh, 114 N Broadway, 598-5955

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

37

Family Fun Can we fix it? Yes we can! Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the familiar refrain of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bob the Builderâ&#x20AC;? theme song, and if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re humming along with the tune, you might want to check out the live show, scheduled to come to the Oklahoma City Civic Center on Tuesday, February 17. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spudâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Big Messâ&#x20AC;? features Bob and all of the characters made popular in the hit childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s television show.

The stage show features original songs and promotes the messages of caring for the environment, recycling, teamwork, cooperation and, of course, the importance of a can-do spirit.

Tickets, $17 and up, are on sale now (call 405-297-2264 or visit CelebrityAttractions.com). Find out more about the show at BobTheBuilder.com.

Win free tickets at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/Bobthe-Builder-Ticket-Giveaway. Two sets of family four-pack tickets will be given awayâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;deadlines are February 3 and February 10.

Vintage Oklahoma Wine & Art Festival at the Petroleum Club, 5:30-8pm. Wineries from across the state will host an evening of fine wines and fine arts benefitting the Arts Council of Oklahoma City. Tickets $60. Purchase online LocalWineEvents.com. 270-4848, ArtsCouncilOKC.com.

12-14

The Sooner Theatre presents Musical Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre at the Hall at Old Town Plaza in Norman, 7pm. Tickets, 321-9600.

13 â&#x20AC;˘ Friday

Dinner for your Darling at Young Chefs Academy, 6-9pm. $35 (includes dinner/dessert and 2 crafts). For ages 4 and up. 285-5939, YoungChefsAacademy.com.

Child safety seat check at UPS Store, 2410 W. Memorial Road (across from Quail Springs Mall).

11am-2pm. 418-2225.

13-14

Paris Rouge by the OKC Ballet Company at the Civic Center Music Hall, 8pm. Tickets $26 and up. 297-2264, OKCCivicCenter.com.

2 OFF

Book Your Entire Party Now on our website for a Free JZ T-shirt

Open Play 1 per child

Harding Fine Arts Academy Winter Arts Festival, 2-5pm. 3333 N Shartel. 702-4322.

14 â&#x20AC;˘ Saturday

16 â&#x20AC;˘ Monday

Valentine Treats for Feathered Tweeties at Martin Park Nature Center, 2pm. Make and deliver some sweet valentine treats to the birds of Martin Park Nature Center this winter. $2 per person. Space is limited. 755-0676.

School Break SeaCamp at the Oklahoma Aquarium, 9am-4pm. For K-5th grade. $50 per day. Pre-registration is required.

Join our rock band & acoustic class!

s $EGREED %XPERIENCED )NSTRUCTOR s 'REAT FOR KIDS NEW TO GUITAR LESSONS s )NDIVIDUAL ATTENTION IN A LOW PRESSURE ENVIRONMENT s #LASSES ARE HELD AT THE Fine Arts Institute of Edmond

www.guitarforcoolkids.com

Join Club JZ for Discounts

Call Doug at 340-8294

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

Frigid Five Miler at Mitch Park. Registration $20 and up. Free 1 mile fun run. 359-4630, Lissa.Wohltmann@ gmail.com.

Mid-Winter Carnival at the Shawnee Mall, 10am-9pm.

Arts, crafts, antiques and wine. VisitShawnee.com.

(405) 200-1691 1BMBHJP 4IPQT t 48 th 8FTUFSO XXX KVNQ[POFQBSUZ DPN 38

Parents Night Out at Unpluggits Playstudio, 6â&#x20AC;&#x201C;10pm.

An evening of crafts, pizza and organized playground games. $25 includes one craft, pizza, drink and dessert.

Ages 6 & up. Reservations required. 340-7584, play@ unpluggits.com.

Kids age 11-14 with parents are invited to tour the OU campus, 2-4pm, to learn more about what college has to offer. Details, contact Emily Shipley, 306-6521.

HitTheBooksRunning.com.

Professional Bull Riders at the Ford Center, 8pm.

Tickets $10 and up. 602-8700, OKFordCenter.com.

1 per child. Expires 2/28/09

Expires 2/29/08

Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dinner and Dance hosted by the Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dining on Persimmon Hill restaurant at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, 6-10pm. A buffet dinner and dancing. Tickets $34.98. Reservations required. 478-2250 ext. 281.

13-15

A unique program that offers a complete guitar education including our rock band & acoustic classes.

$

Fine Arts Winter Festival at Harding Fine Arts Academy, (3333 N Shartel) 2-5pm. Showcases students talent, Paseo art show, art sale, live performances, and food. Free. 702-4322, HardingFineArts.org.

OUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School of Musical Theater present an Opera and Musical Theatre Valentine Cabaret at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, 6pm. Tickets, 325-4101.

Ages 6+!

E Parties AWESOM Play en GREAT Op Arena BIGGEST

Sweet Treats at Young Chefs Academy, 1-3pm. $30.

Ages 4 and up. 285-5939, YoungChefsAacademy.com.

Contact us today for all your school uniform needs!

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17 â&#x20AC;˘ Tuesday

The Texas Gypsies at the Bruce Owen Theatre, (formerly OCCC Theatre) 7pm. Hot Jazz with a touch of Texas Swing. Tickets $10 and up. 843-6487, OCCC. EDU/CAS.

18 â&#x20AC;˘ Wednesday

Oklahoma Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Coaltion Advocacy Day at the State Capital. Guest speakers Lt. Governor Jari Askins, Attorney General Drew Edmondson, and a surprise VIP, Registration 8:30am. Tickets $30. Reservations requested, space is limited. 858-0515.

19 â&#x20AC;˘ Thursday

Teen Movie Night at the Guthrie Public Library, 78:30pm. For ages 12-19. 282-0050.

Town Hall meeting for parents of kids age 11-14 to learn to prepare financially for college will be held on OU campus. Details, contact Emily Shipley, 306-6521.

HitTheBooksRunning.com.

20 â&#x20AC;˘ Friday

Pizza and Pillow Party at Unpluggits Playstudio, 6-10pm. Enjoy face painting, nail art and hair braiding with beads. $25 includes all supplies, pizza, drink and dessert. Ages 8 & up. Reservations required. 340-7584, play@unpluggits.com.

20-22

Continually operating since 1955

Friends of the Library Book Sale at the State Fairgrounds, 5:30-9pm. Free.

21 â&#x20AC;˘ Saturday

2 year olds - PreK

Anime Club at the Mabel C. Fry Public Library, 11am.

For 6th grade and up. 354-8232.

Come join us for our Open House Sunday, March 1st, 3:00 - 4:30 pm

Harlem Renaissance Family Day at the Museum of Art, 12-4pm. Enjoy fun-filled activities for all ages, including hands-on art, face painting, mini-tours, scavenger hunts, door prizes, and live performances. $12 adults, $10 students/seniors, free for members.

Enroll Now for Fall 2009!

Norman Mardi Gras Parade in Downtown Norman, 6:45pm. A nighttime moving carnival featuring performers, bands, animals, and floats of every description. 360-3279.

Candle Making at the Capital Hill Library, 11am-noon.

Two different candle styles will be demonstrated. For adults. Registration required.

22 â&#x20AC;˘ Sunday

Three-Dimensional Sculpture at the OKC Museum of Art, 2-4pm. Students will visit the Museum galleries to view three-dimensional sculptures and learn basic techniques of sculpting using clay. For ages 10-13. $10 members, $15 nonmembers. Pre-registration required.

20-21

24 â&#x20AC;˘ Tuesday

Monster Jam at the Ford Center, 7:30pm. $5 children, $17 adults. 602-8700, OKFordCenter.com.

Mardi Gras Necklaces at the OKC Museum of Art, 10-11am. Make a bright necklace made from pastas that have been dyed in vibrant colors. Read a story, snack and learn about the holiday. For ages 3-5 with parent.

Leake Car Show at the Oklahoma Fairgrounds, 10am.

Featuring thousands of classic, muscle and custom cars.

800-722-9942, LeakeCar.com.

Music, Art, Science, Spanish, Dramatic Play & Motor Development

Limited Space Available!

Please call 848-5926 4901 N. Pennsylvania

Candy for Soldiers Call to purchase candy for yourself or our troops!

Our council donated d 3,885 boxes of candy dy to American soldierss overseas in 2008.

Fine chocolates include: Caramel Almond Clusters Almond Roca Buttercrunchh Creamy Smooth Patties

All for only $5 each.

Book Discussion: The Heights, Depths and Everything In Between at the Guthrie Public Library, 3:30-4:30pm.

For 4th-7th grade. 282-0050.

Call Free P for revie class w

Gingerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s G Ging inggerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gee râ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s râ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of Oklahoma City

405-478-5646

www.campfireusa-ok.org Buy Camp Fire Candy and invest in youth. yy&& t! rt at pr ypa e a d y uqu ! dha rt np bpoass kiarbtih lloo o b o a B m e ju Booket a fareferbea g e receiv

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Winter I: January 12-February 20 Winter II: February 23-April 10th Enroll t "MM "HFT "MM 4UBHFT N OW! t 1SPGFTTJPOBM 'BDVMUZ t 'SJFOEMZ "UNPTQIFSF

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Recognized for 9 years of exceptional service

Bouncinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Bir thday Parties

Ongoing Winter Enrollment t .VTJD BOE NPWFNFOU DMBTTFT GSPN CJSUI UP ZST www.GingersKindermusik.com

722-2379

Great Open Play

Your bouncin indoor play center

Memorable Family Nights

Awesome InďŹ&#x201A;atable s

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www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

39

Paint Your

Sweetheart

Something Special!

Great Private Party Room. s Punky Pottery s Bridal Parties s Walk-in Anytime s Teen Parties s Birthday Parties

$7.50 members, $10 nonmembers. Pre-registration required.

Celebrate National Pancake Day at IHOP. Receive a free short stack of pancakes when you consider making a donation to the Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Miracle Network or other local charity. 7am-10pm. IHopPancakeDay.com.

24-26

Michael Flatleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lord of the Dance at the Civic Center Music Hall, 7:30pm. Tickets $40 and up.

CelebrityAttractions.com.

Paint your own pottery studio . -AY /+# s 842-7770

26 â&#x20AC;˘ Thursday

Winter Jam at the Ford Center, 7pm. Performances by Toby Mac, Hawk Nelson, and Brandon Heath. Tickets $10 at the door. 602-8700, OKFordCenter.com.

26-28

The FIRST Robotics Competition at the Cox Convention Center Arena. USFirst.org.

27 â&#x20AC;˘ Friday

Fondue Fandango at the Civic Center Hall, 7-11pm.

This fundraiser benefiting the Harn Homestead features fondue creations from local chefs, live music and a silent auction. $75 in advance, $85 at the door. Must be 21 to attend. 235-4058, HarnHomestead.com.

Deadline for entries for the Office of Child Abuse Prevention Poster Contest. Oklahoma students K-12 may submit entries. Details, call 271-7611.

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The 7th Annual Art with a Heart Benefit for the OK Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cancer Association, 7-9:30pm, at the OKHistory Center. Artwork created by children with cancer will be on display and for sale at silent auction. $30. 751-8793 or ArtWithaHeartOKC.com.

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Portrait Drawing at the OKC Museum of Art, 10am12pm. students will receive instruction on how to draw a portrait with correct placement and proportion of features. $10 members, $15 nonmembers. For ages 6-9.

Pre-registration required.

Boys Night Out at Unpluggits Playstudio, 6-10pm. Enjoy leather crafts, organized playground games and pizza. $25. For 8 and up. Reservations required. 340-7584, play@unpluggits.com.

Daylight Disco at Unpluggits Playstudio, 10-12pm.

Dress up in disco attire and get a 20 minute dance lesson. Admission $10. For ages 11 and under.

340-7584, play@unpluggits.com.

Seussical Saturday at the Southern Oaks Library, 2-3pm. Celebrate Dr. Seussâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birthday with crafts and games. Registration required.

March 1 â&#x20AC;˘ Sunday

Portrait Painting at the OKC Museum of Art, 2-4pm.

Discover how to transform your portrait drawings into acrylic paintings on canvas. For ages 10-13. $10 members, $15 nonmembers. Pre-registration required.

March 6 â&#x20AC;˘ Friday

Sleep With The Sharks! at the Oklahoma Aquarium, 6pm. With activities, snacks, and movies. $50 per person, $5 discount for members. (918) 528-1508, OKAquarium.org.

March 6-8

Sesame Street Live presents Elmoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Green Thumb at the Cox Convention Center. Showtimes vary; tickets $11 opening night, $13 and up other days.

CoxConventionCenter.com.

Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day at Let us help make your childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day as much fun as yours!

For just $35 look at all you get! 6:00-10:00 pm â&#x20AC;˘ Full 4-hour Mad Science Mini-Camp â&#x20AC;˘ Awesome edutainment experience â&#x20AC;˘ Mad Science take-home activities â&#x20AC;˘ Pizza Dinner included We also offer Birthday parties & summer camps

OKC/Edmond â&#x20AC;˘ Northpark Mall N.W. 122nd and May Avenue

405-285-9643

405.755.3445

www.madscience.org/centraloklahoma

www.gymboreeclasses.com 40

28 â&#x20AC;˘ Saturday

February 2009

344 Santa Fe Ave, Edmond

There are as many support groups in the Metro as there are needs for them. To include your group in our listing, please email details to Calendar@MetroFamilyMagazine.com.

Childbirth & Babies

DACO (Doula Association of Central OK), 455-1500, DACOinc.org.

La Leche League meets at Gymboree Play & Music in Norman the second Saturday of each month, 10am-noon. Family Gym is available at $5 per family for partners and children of meeting attendees.

La Leche League breastfeeding information and support. Meetings in Moore and NW OKC. Visit the calendar at MetroFamilyMagazine.com for dates, times, and contact info. lllusa.org.

Counseling & Support

women who want to learn more. First Monday, 7pm.

Eastside Church of Christ (916 S Douglas), 732-0393.

Breast Cancer support group at the OU Breast Institute (825 NE10th), Suite 3500, third Thursday, noon-1pm.

Lunch provided; register 271-8001, ext 48592, or 2718001 ext. 48527.

Amputees’ Next Step support group, second Tuesday 1-3pm. O’Donoghue Rehabilitation Institute (1122 NE 13th, room 252). OUPhysicians.com.

Parents of Children with Cancer support group, second Wednesday at noon (complimentary lunch). Children’s Hospital (930 NE 13th). 943-8888.

Divorce Recovery Group, Wednesdays at 7pm, Quail Springs Church of Christ (14401 N May), room 308.

755-4790.

Parents Helping Parents confidential meetings for parents of children who abuse drugs. First and third Tuesdays. Oklahoma Blood Institute in Edmond, 6428198, ParentsHelpingParents.info.

Free drug and alcohol addiction classes offered by A Chance to Change Foundation at the Last Frontier Council Scout Service Center (3031 NW 64th), 6:308pm Mondays. 840-9000, AChanceToChange.org.

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society-sponsored Family Support Group. First Thursday, 6pm, Integris Baptist Medical Center. 943-8888.

Grief Support Group, Wednesdays at 7pm, Quail Springs Church of Christ (14401 N May), room 110.

755-4790.

H.O.P.E. Gynecologic Cancer Support at the OU Physicians Building, (5th floor) the first Saturday of each month at 10am. 271-8001 ext 48165, 672-1748.

Mondays Friends Breast Cancer Support Group second Monday, 7pm. Midwest Regional Breast Care Center.

610-8872, jean.pitzer@mrmc.hma-corp.com.

Birth Parent support group, first Monday, 6-7:30pm.

Deaconess Pregnancy & Adoption Services (5300 N Meridian). 949-4200 ext 13.

United Methodist Church of the Servant (14343 N MacArthur), holds Discoveries Program classes for adults. Call Gayle 720-8480 for full listing.

Crossings Community Church (14600 N Portland) holds a variety of Care Series classes and support groups.

755-2227 or CrossingsOKC.org.

Pancreatic Cancer support group, last Thursday, 6pm.

O’Donoghue Research Building (1122 NE 13th Street), 3rd Floor Surgery Research Conference Room. 2712108 or ouhsc.edu/surgery/pancan.

Breast Cancer Survivor support group, second Thursday, 6:30pm. Young Survival Coalition (for women under 40), third Wednesday, noon. Breast Imaging of OK (2601 Kelley Pointe Pkwy, Edmond).

844-2601 ext 1031.

Breast Cancer awareness group for survivors and

Myeloma Support Group. Third Thursday, 6pm, 7th floor Conference room, Presbyterian Tower, OU Medical Center, 271-6557.

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society-sponsored SpanishSpeaking Group. First Tuesday, 6pm at Integris Southwest Medical Center, 636-7560; and first Wednesday, 5pm at the 7th floor Conference room, Presbyterian Tower, OU Medical Center, 271-7930.

Family Support Group for leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma survivors and caregivers, second Tuesday, 6pm. Mercy Cancer Center, 943-8888.

Health

Women’s Yoga Center offers women’s, prenatal, kids and mommy & baby yoga classes. 607-6699, WomensYogaCenter.com.

Daily Yoga Classes (adult, teen, prenatal, meditation, and senior) for beginning and advanced students. $12 and up. 203-8927, 3rdStreetYogaStudio.com.

Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga. $8-$15 per class. 474-3302 or MamasteYoga.com for locations and times.

Parenting Groups

Mom’s Got Connections Christian group for moms with young children (birth-5yrs). Chapel Hill United Methodist Church, OKC, 9:30-11am Tuesdays. Nadinebryant@ sbcglobal.net or 359-9251.

MOMS Club (Moms Offering Moms Support) activity groups meet in Edmond, OKC, Moore, Midwest/Del City, and Norman. MOMSClub.org.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) support groups meet in Choctaw, Norman, Edmond, and OKC. Visit our online calendar for dates, times, and contact info.

Edmond’s Mothers of Multiples, second Thursday at Edmond Hospital, 7pm. 285-5208 and 315-0338, EdmondMoms.com.

Special Needs

Parents Fighting Autism third Monday of the month, 7pm. Olive Garden in Norman. Free. Location subject to change, contact ParentsFightingAutism@gmail.com.

OKC Area Stuttering Support Group for adults. Third Tuesday, 6:30-7:30pm. First United Methodist Church, 303 E Hurd, Edmond. okcssg@yahoo.com.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren support group for grandparents and other relatives raising children. First and third Tuesday, 6pm, Trinity Church of the Nazarene.

634-4400 ext. 140.

CHADD ADD/ADHD support meeting, second Tuesday at 7pm. Deaconess Hospital (5501 N Portland), Spencer conference room. 722-1ADD, 419-4176, or CHADD.org.

Hope Link meetings for parents of special-needs children or children with undiagnosed disorders. Integris Baptist Medical Center, first Thursday, 6pm. 271-5072, OKCHopeLink.org.

6-7

Calm Waters Center for Children and Families provides support group facilitator training. Friday 6-9pm, Saturday 9am-1pm. 841-4800, CalmWaters.org.

7 • Saturday

Baby Signs Workshop at the Gymboree Play and Music of Norman, 10:30am-noon. Learn simple signs and gestures to communicate with your baby. $25 per family for materials. Reservations required. 307-8454, normanok@gymboreeclasses.com.

17 • Tuesday

The Ministry of Mothers Sharing at the Catholic Parish of St. John the Baptist in Edmond is an 8-week program. $30 (financial aid available); childcare provided. Call 330-1446 or visit StJohn-Catholic. org/MOMs.htm. Registration deadline 2/10.

21 • Saturday

Pediatric first aid CPR at Rainbow Fleet (3024 Paseo). Upon successful completion, American Heart Association Pediatric Basis Life Support CPR Cards will be issued, plus DHS Certificates for First-Aid. 9am-5pm; also held 3/21. RainbowFleet.org.

February 2009

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

41

Advertiser Index—February 2009 MetroFamily Magazine is brought to you each month by the following advertisers. Please use these advertisers and when you do, thank them for their support of Metro families!

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