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JULY 2010

Special Needs Families

Real-life stories that inspire

Tips for managing

food allergies

Over 150 ideas for

Summer Family Fun

in our popular calendar T h e E s sent i a l Reso u rce fo r Cent ra l O k l a h o m a F a m i l i es

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

The Right Foundation to Build Active Minds, Healthy Bodies, and Happy Hearts®

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How do we do it? We call it Balanced Learning.® And it means that everything at Primrose is designed to create a learning environment that stimulates and nurtures your child’s mind, body, and heart. Our comprehensive curriculum addresses well-defined learning goals and enables our committed teachers to focus their energies on your child’s development. Come discover for yourself why parents have been partnering with Primrose for over 25 years.

Each Primrose School is privately owned and operated. Primrose Schools; The Leader in Educational Child Care; Balanced Learning; and The Right Foundation to Build Active Minds, Healthy Bodies, and Happy Hearts are trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2010 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved.

To learn more and to fi nd the Oklahoma City area school nearest you, call 1.800.PRIMROSE or visit PrimroseSchools.com/MetroFamily.

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July 2010

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Imagine... how you could shine this summer.

The Top Five Reasons

to visit MetroFamilyMagazine.com this month:

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Subscribe to E-Update and never miss another family event in the OKC area. This weekly e-newsletter provides the best list of events coming up on the weekend.

Family fun has never been easier! metrofamilymagazine.com/subscribeto-e-update.

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Summer fun resources are found in abundance on our website. From water fun to farmer’s markets, check it all out at metrofamilymagazine.com/summer-fun.

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Check out our outstanding blogs. Subjects include frugal mom tips, special needs families, nonprofit spotlight and how you can help these wonderful organizations and much more. metrofamilymagazine. com/blogs.

©2010 Kumon North America, Inc.

A young mind needs to stay active year-round. With Kumon Math and Reading your child succeeds stepby-step, day-by-day to advance with confidence.

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Web exclusive articles include subjects such as tips on how special need children’s caregivers can take care of themselves and “teachable moments” ideas by noted psychologist Dr. Susan Bartell. metrofamilymagazine.com/July-2010.

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Enter our Exploring Oklahoma Contest and you’ll be eligible to win one of two $500 vouchers from Oklahoma State Parks. Deadline is July 31. All details and entry form can be found at metrofamilymagazine.com/exploringoklahoma-contest.

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July 2010

Our Big Special Needs Issue 37 Calendar

Inspiring Local Families

Dozens of events and activities for family fun and enrichment

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Dear MetroFamily Editor’s Note

30 Dear Teacher

Advice from education experts

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Read profiles of two amazing local families who thrive despite the challenges of special needs: The Villanuevas (page 26) and the Moffatts (page 32).

Exploring Oklahoma Local museums celebrate the heroes among us

18 Family Finances

Finding a job, part 1 of 2: resumé tips

10 Family Shorts

Community news and parenting resources

22 News You Can Use: KFOR

Scott Hines goes in your corner

24 Oklahoma Reads Book reviews

46 Out & About

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Food allergies and your family: how do you cope when you find out your kids can’t eat what the other kids are eating?

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Parents, if your kids have special needs, that means you do too.

Tips for caring for yourself when your #1 priority is to take care of others

On our cover: 20-month-old Keegan Paul Collier, son of Caleb Collier of OKC and Heather Collier of Shawnee. Learn about this MetroFamily Cover Kid winner of the Special Needs category on page 6.

Readers share their photos celebrating Independence Day

34 The Alert Parent Sensory processing disorders explained

28 Your Healthy Family All about the benefits and how-to's of a gluten-free diet

Cover Photography by Distinctive Images Photography • www.distinctiveimagesok.com

July 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

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Dear MetroFamily, Let me be totally honest with you: patience is not my strong suit. And so far, 2010 has been the year that has truly tried my patience. A wise friend once told me that you should never pray for patience as you’ll find yourself in more situations that demand patience from you—and I can certainly attest to that fact.

Editor Mari Farthing and her children Spencer (age 8) and Lauren (age 5).

I’m inspired by people who maintain a positive attitude, who get pushed and pulled in all directions and have their patience tried in various ways. While they may waver, they don’t fall down. The parents of special needs children that we profile this month provide a good example of that.

When I’m in a situation that makes me uncomfortable, I try to think ahead to what’s coming next, disengaging from whatever is right in front of me; but these people are present in the moment. They stay engaged and don’t need to dig into their patience; they aren’t waiting for this time to pass. They show me that it is possible to find the positive in a difficult situation.

I’ve found that being a parent is a test of patience from the moment the test stick showed that I was pregnant and then had to wait all those long months before the baby was born. As my children have grown older and I think I have it figured out, well we move on to another phase and I have to start all over again. It’s certainly an amazing adventure. I can think of no better part of life to truly be present in the moment than with my family.

I don’t think I’ll ever be described as a patient person, but while I’m waiting, I’ll do my best to look for the silver lining.

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 Sales Athena Delce Dana Price Ads@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Office and Distribution Manager Kathy Alberty Kathy@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Marketing Specialist Whitney Fleming Assistant Editor & Calendar Brooke Barnett Calendar@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Special Projects Assistant Terri Fields Editorial Assistants Elizabeth Harvey & Sherrie Horton

• Have more family fun this summer! Check out these resources at metrofamilymagazine.com/ summer-fun.

Find all the great places to explore nature in Oklahoma with our annual travel guide, Exploring Oklahoma with Children. You'll find the digital edition and locations to pick up this popular travel guide. Includes day and weekend trips AND the popular Kids Pass, your ticket to discounts at over 30 attractions statewide.

Discover 50 unique and clever ideas for summer fun out and about and at your home.

Also find lists for 4th of July activities, Summer day camps, Vacation Bible Schools, local Farmer's Markets and summer reading programs.

• Enter the Exploring Oklahoma Contest by submitting a photo or essay and you will be eligible for one of two $500 vouchers to the Oklahoma State Parks. Deadline is July 31.

Find all the details and submit your entries at metrofamilymagazine.com/exploring-oklahoma-contest.

• Special needs families need special resources and inspiration; our website provides both. You'll especially want to check out our two blogs that are by local moms of special needs children, metrofamilymagazine.com/blog-special-needs-families by Traci Castles and metrofamilymagazine.com/ perspectives-from-a-christian-mom by Cheri Blair.

• MetroFamily's August issue will feature our always-popular Extracurricular Activities Guide and back to school tips. Do not miss getting your business in front of over 75,000 readers, 91% of whom say they have kids in after school activities. Ad space reservation deadline is July 15; distribution date is July 30. Contact us today! 405-340-1404 or info@metrofamilymagazine.com.

About our Cover Model: The winner of our Special Needs Cover Kids category, Keegan Paul Collier, 20 months, is the son of Caleb Collier of OKC and Heather Collier of Shawnee. Keegan loves to swing at the park, swim and watch his dad play the guitar.

A member of the Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma, Keegan will be included in the organization’s upcoming calendar.

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Contributing Writers Brooke Barnett Janine Boldrin Matt Dumigan Marge Eberts Allyn Evans Mari Farthing

Shannon Fields Peggy Gisler Robin Jones Karen Mitchell Judy M. Miller Sue Lynn Sasser

Contributing Photographer Aimee Adams (AimeeAdamsPhotography.com) 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. 306 S. Bryant, Suite C152 • Edmond, OK 73034 Fax: 405-340-1490 E-mail: Info@MetroFamilyMagazine.com ©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2010, All Rights Reserved.

Volume 13, Number 7

Your family can

Help Keep Our Waters Clean When?

August 7, 9AM-noon

(Rainout Date: August 14)

What?

A free, fun event designed to help clean up the unsightly litter along Arcadia Lake’s shore lines, stream banks and water ways. This is a great opportunity to teach your children about taking care of the environment!

Helpful Hints:

Wear sturdy shoes and long pants. Bring gloves, sunscreen and insect repellent

Arcadia Lake Sweep

Where?

Arcadia Lake Spring Creek Park (15 Street exit)

Participants receive a hot dog lunch and T-shirt (while supplies last).

For More Information call 405-216-7470 or visit arcadialakeok.com

Ask your librarian how you could win $2,529 toward your child’s college education.

Your library could win too!

Learn more at www.ok4saving.org/metrofamily

Summer Camps May 24 - August 13, 2010

Oklahoma of Department

Libraries

• new camps offered every week • camps for children ages 5-7, 8-10,11-13 and 14-17 • camps include pottery, drawing, film making, painting, weaving, dance and drama • performances / exhibitions of work every Friday afternoon for parents, grandparents and friends

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

No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. Entries must be postmarked or submitted online by July 31, 2010. Visit www.ok4saving.org for official rules and prize details.

July 2010

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Exploring Oklahoma Celebrating Our Freedom

F

ireworks, parades and cookouts are typical Independence Day activities.

But don’t let the celebration end with the passing of the Fourth! Three Oklahoma City museums are perfect testaments to the sweat, tears and sacrifice that have built our country and for which we celebrate this month.

The 45th Infantry Division Museum There is no more fitting way to remember the sacrifices for our freedom than to honor the heroes who have served so bravely in our armed forces. The 45th Infantry • Division Museum remembers those who served in this division of the United States military from the Spanish exploration through the Civil War and to the present day. With 27,000 square feet of indoor

museum space and 15 acres of outdoor displays, the 45th Infantry Division Museum is the largest state-operated museum in the country.

Of particular mention are several unique exhibits:

The Old Santa Fe Depot at the Oklahoma Railway Museum.

Adolf Hitler Artifacts.

The largest publiclydisplayed collection of the WWII era Nazi dictator’s artifacts in the country includes such personal items as Hitler’s uniform cape, initialed dish towels, and framed photos. All items were confiscated near the end of the war from Hitler’s Munich, Germany apartment, his alpine home and Berlin Bunker.

• The Bill Mauldin Room. This PulitzerPrize winning editorial cartoonist was popular with GIs for his “Willie and Joe” cartoons depicting a GI’s life during WWII. Over 200 of this 45th Infantry news staffer’s original prints are on display.

• The Reaves Military Weapons Collection. Gun enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance and rarity of many items in this large collection of military weapons.

• Thunderbird Military Park. Military vehicles, weapons and aircraft from

various eras of U.S. military history are displayed on 15 acres that surround the historical museum building.

Oklahoma Railway Museum All aboard! A short distance across from the Infantry Museum is the Oklahoma Railway Museum (ORM). Our nation’s expansion into the west would not have occurred nearly as quickly as it did without the country’s railway system. A visit to this outdoor museum celebrating Oklahoma’s historical past is a tribute to our country’s growth.

Opened in 2002, the ORM displays and operates locomotives and passenger equipment ranging from the 1920s-1950s.

Train enthusiasts of all ages will appreciate the time and effort being taken to restore the trains and artifacts (even a 1905-era Oklahoma depot) that sit on and near a

160 acre

natural playground waiting to be explored

l High Adventure Treasure Hunt l H ayrides l “Bone Zone” Archaeological Dig

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July 2010

l P ony Rides

l F ishing l A rchery Range ...and much more!

Kids can play on the Junior Firefighter’s Skill Station at the Oklahoma Firefighter’s Museum.

BE PREPARED FOR NEXT SCHOOL YEAR! SUMMER MATH ACADEMY

• Limited Enrollment CALL NOW! • Enrollment grades 5-12 • Individualized Instruction with Certified Math Teachers • Basic Math • Pre-Algebra • Algebra I • Algebra II • Geometry • Trigonometry • Calculus

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former MK&T (Missouri, Kansas and Texas) Railroad line.

Birthday parties and special events are popular at the ORM. Operating on 2.7 miles of track between NE 10th and NE 50th on Martin Luther King Blvd, train rides are available for a small fee on the first and third Saturdays of each month from April through September.

If you have Thomas the Tank Engine enthusiasts in your family, mark your calendar for the last weekend in September and the first weekend in October for a “Day Out with Thomas.” The ORM will be hosting Thomas the Train rides and other activities.

Oklahoma Firefighter’s Museum What’s an Independence Day celebration without our beloved firefighters? Kids of all ages get a kick out of the fire trucks blazing their sirens during Fourth of July parades.

See their reaction to some of the trucks on display at this museum including an 1869, eight-man pulled German Braunert Tub Pumper.

The Oklahoma State Firefighter’s Association host this museum which honors our brave and tireless fire and rescue heroes. Celebrating its 40th year in operation, the museum exhibits firefighting artifacts dating back to the mid 1700s.

Personal audio tours take participants on an educational experience through the evolution of firefighting. Exhibits include a unique collection of antique firefighting apparatus and equipment, the world’s largest collection of firefighting patches, and the first area fire station in what was then Oklahoma Territory in 1869. Kids can even try their skills at the junior firefighter’s skill station.

There is no need to end Independence Day activities with the passing of the Fourth.

Visit one of these area museums for a an historical look at what makes our country (and state) great!

• Study Skills Program Learning Built to Last™ • Time Management Skills • Writing Papers & Essays • Listening & Note-Taking Skills • Test Taking Tips

Call Today to Reserve Your Space!

478-3515

www.clubztutoring.com

Karen Mitchell, a lifelong resident of the Oklahoma City metro area, lives in Edmond with her husband, Mark, teenage son, Ryan, and one spoiled Welsh Corgi. Daughter, Megan, attends OSU in Stillwater.

45th Infantry Division Museum 2145 NE 36th, OKC • 405-424-5313 • 45thdivisionmuseum.com Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 9:00am-4:15pm, Saturday 10:00am-4:15pm, Sunday 1:004:15pm; Thunderbird Park closes each day by 5:00pm Admission: Free (donations accepted).

Oklahoma Railway Museum 3400 NE Grand Blvd, OKC • 405-424-8222 • oklahomarailwaymuseum.org Hours: Thursday-Saturday, 9:00am-4:30pm (weather permitting) Admission: Free (donations accepted); fee for train rides:$10 adults, $5 ages 3-14, under 3, free.

Oklahoma Firefighter’s Museum 2716 NE 50th, OKC • 405-424-3440 • osfa.info Hours: Monday-Saturday 9:00am-4:30pm, Sunday 1:00-4:30pm Admission: $6 adults, $5 seniors, $2 ages 6-13; Oklahoma firefighters and their immediate family members, free.

July 2010

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Traveling With Special Needs Passengers Planning a road trip this summer? “It’s important that children of all ages have appropriate safety restraints in the vehicle, in accordance with Oklahoma law,” said Alice Collinsworth, spokesperson for the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office. “Children with physical disabilities or special conditions sometimes require adaptive restraint systems.”

Beth Washington, coordinator for Safe Kids Tulsa, agreed.

“Some kids can use conventional car seats that you buy at retail stores, but [many] cannot,” she said. “The main issue for parents is being able to find the appropriate car seat, whether the child has a short-term need or whether he or she has lifelong needs.”

Washington said Safe Kids Oklahoma and some hospitals have loaner programs for children who need specialized car seats for a short time—perhaps after a broken femur, when the child is required to wear a leg cast.

Parents who have a child with long-term disabilities may find it necessary to purchase a safety seat suited to that child’s individual requirements.

“These are harder to come by,” Washington said.

“Typically this type of seat must be purchased directly from the manufacturer, or sometimes parents can go through the social service representative at a local hospital.” The cost for specialized seats can run $500 or more.

Question of the Month How do you celebrate the end of summer and get ready for school?

Visit metrofamilymagazine. com/fs-giveaway to answer this question and enter your name in our monthly prize package drawing, valued at over $450.

Deadline is Thursday, July 22.

Your comments may also be used in a future issue of MetroFamily Magazine or on our website.

The full contents of the prize package are listed with the entry form. A winner will be drawn at random and notified by phone or email. The winner agrees to pick up items from the NW OKC area.

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July 2010

“Infants with special needs should use a conventional car seat or a car bed,” Washington said. “When they are at least one year old and weigh 20 pounds, then they can move to a forward-facing seat, but we would like to see parents keep them rear-facing as long as possible. Some of the special seats can accommodate children from 20 pounds up to 100 pounds or more.”

For more information, contact Safe Kids Oklahoma at 405-271-5695, Safe Kids Tulsa at 918-494-7233, or visit safekidsok.org.

Beat the Summer Heat!

There is no denying that summer in Oklahoma means heat, and lots of it! We posed our June Question of the Month to find out how our readers beat the oppressive heat, but the overwhelming majority of respondents chose not to beat it but to embrace it.

Kim W. of Edmond said “We spend a lot of time outside during the summer, anything from eating snowcones to a cookout. The kids love the outdoors! We’re looking forward to a trip to Martin Park coming up to see the turtles and catfish.”

Christy R. of OKC also spends time outdoors in the heat: “My five year old son abolutely loves water so we hit the spray parks when the temperature rises.”

Darrell S. of Tuttle was one of the parents who likes to visit local museums or libraries. He said “This is my time to take my girls to the library as they both share my love of reading and learning about new things.”

For those who prefer to stay out of the heat, there are plenty of ideas as well. Edna P. of OKC said “My son suffered a heat stroke a few years ago, so we love to visit museums, indoor playgrounds or anything that can keep us out of the Oklahoma heat.”

12%

1%

15%

50%

22% 50% ....I Don't Beat It, I Join It 22% ....Library/Museum 15% ....Other 12% ....Indoor Fun 1% ....Road Trip

And many readers didn’t like to be limited to either indoor or outdoor activities: Katrina W. of OKC said “We stay in our nice air conditioned house and play board games and indoor games. When it gets a little cooler in the evening we hit the water park at our neighborhood park.”

Enjoy the best of both worlds this summer! See all of our reader responses online, metrofamilymagazine.com/july-2010.

Problem-Solving Character Corner: Compassion Being compassionate means that you are willing to invest what is necessary to heal the Products hurts of others. A compassionate attitude will reward you with deeper levels of friendship When we hear about new or helpful products, we like to let our readers know!

Here are a few of the interesting items we’ve recently found. Visit the product website for a list of local retailers.

Problem:

Socks can be sometimes difficult for your child to manage.

Solution:

EZ Sox ($4.99/pair), come with a face to show which side is up and double-reinforced handles to make pulling on socks easy for young kids or those with special needs. (ezsox.com)

as compassionate involvement brings a deeper level of intimacy with others.

To promote compassion in your home: •

Realize that we all need love and attention, and strive to provide that to all family members.

• Listen to others with an open mind and honor their need for respect.

• Try to view troubles or problems from that person’s viewpoint.

• Be willing to let go of activities that may disappoint or hurt others.

Encourage compassion in your home by committing to the following statements. Say these “I will” statements If you want aloud with your children, and encourage them to others to be apply them to situations in their everyday life.

I will:

happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion. ~ Dalai Lama

Solution:

... stop to help. ... listen when others want to talk. ... give of myself to help those in need. ... look for lasting solutions. ... comfort others without regard to race, gender, faith, age or nationality.

Contact Character First! for more character-building resources. 405-815-0001, characterfirst.com.

Problem:

Camps for Special Needs Kids and Adults

Problem:

Craft projects are great. But do they have to be so messy?

Luv That Tray ($12.99/4), are flexible, colorful plastic trays that make cleanup a snap and will let you take back your cookie sheets to use for baking. (agreecorp.com) You want to take out the new baby but the sun and bugs are keeping you home.

Solution:

Berry Goods Baby Protective Infant Carrier Covers ($37), is a breathable cover that fits over baby’s carrier, protecting him from the elements. (berrygoodsbaby.com)

Problem:

Ice pops are good; stained clothes are bad.

Solution:

Pop Pals Ice Pop Holders ($4.99/2), hold those pops, keeping fingers warm and helping to prevent sticky messes. (pop-pals.com)

Problem: I’m bored!

Solution:

Fat Brain Toys has low-tech, high-fun ideas for all ages. The Five-Layer Butterfly Puzzle ($24, ages 4+) teaches about the lifecycle of the butterfly. The Backyard Explorer Kit ($19.95, ages 4+) provides tools to explore the backyard. The Rubber Band Jump Rope Kit ($6.95, ages 8+) lets kids create their own toy. No more excuses! (fatbraintoys.com)

Make Promises Happen (MPH) is a program of Central Christian Camp and Conference Center in Guthrie that provides outdoor recreational opportunities for individuals ages 6 and older with special needs. Campers are matched with volunteer counselors, who provide one-on-one companionship and assist with camp activities. Through weekend and weeklong camping events held throughout the year, participants enjoy water activities, arts and crafts, dancing, campfires, special trips, friendship and camaraderie.

“Our camp is based around the basic idea that everyone has limitations. Those of us with less limitations should do for those who have more,” explained James Wheeler, Director of Programs for MPH. “Currently, our campers range in age from 6 years old to 86 years old and we offer about 35 events every year.”

Since 1972, MPH has shared camping and outdoor experiences with more than 60,000 individuals who otherwise could not have participated. Camp events are offered at an affordable rate, and MPH makes special efforts to work with all potential campers regardless of ability to pay. Scholarships and financial assistance are available.

Spring, Summer and Fall events are available for youth (ages 6-17), young adults (ages 18-30) and adults (ages 31+). More than 300 dedicated volunteers make these events possible, donating more than 35,000 volunteer hours each year. MPH volunteers must be 15 years old and may apply at anytime throughout the year.

As a non-profit organization, MPH relies on volunteer counselors and private donations to serve more than 6,500 individuals each year.

Financial contributions are used to provide scholarship assistance, expand program offerings and improve the campground. To learn more about the camp, view the current schedule, download a camper registration form, learn about becoming a volunteer or other ways to support the camp, call 405-282-2811 or visit centralchristiancamp.org.

July 2010

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Change the World of a Hungry Child

Blue Star Museums

By Robin Jones

One in five children in Oklahoma is at risk for hunger every day. You may not be able to change the world, but you can change the world of one child.

In July, the Season of Service focus is children at risk for hunger. Unfortunately, for many children, hunger isn’t just an occasional missed meal; it’s a way of life. Chronically hungry children develop at a slower pace physically and socially than their peers and experience more mental health challenges.

There are many ways you, your family, and your church can help. One of the things your church can do this month is to participate in You CAN Make a Difference on Sunday, July 25. Other ways you can help: volunteer at a local food pantry, host a bake sale or get involved in a community garden.

Cornerstone Assistance Network and the Office of Faith Based & Community Initiatives are hosting a Season of Service, a four month public awareness campaign that provides opportunities for you to make a difference in a child’s life.

For more information visit serveokc.org and find out how you can change a child’s life.

Summer Food Safety Food safety experts at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center said by following just a few simple rules, Oklahomans can avoid food-borne illnesses that lead to uncomfortable and even serious problems. “It’s all about temperature and crosscontamination when keeping people from getting sick,” says Patti Landers, a food safety expert at the OU College of Allied Health.

• Sanitize it. Wash your hands before you eat. If that isn’t possible, use hand sanitizer or wipes.

• Cool it. Anything normally kept in the refrigerator should be kept chilled on the picnic table. Also keep meat chilled until you cook it. Leaving these foods at room temperature creates the perfect breeding ground for harmful bacteria.

• Keep it separate. Use different coolers for drinks and food as frequently opening coolers will raise the temperature within. Use different utensils for cooking, serving and eating food.

• Keep it warm. Food cooked at home and served warm at your outing should be kept above 140°. Landers said one of the best ways to maintain heat is to bake a brick in the oven at 400°, use oven mitts to remove it and wrap it in a towel. Place a piece of cardboard or thin wood at the bottom of a cooler to keep the brick from touching the plastic. Put the towel-wrapped brick at the bottom of the cooler and place the food dish on top.

• Grill smart. Grilled meats should be cooked to the proper internal temperature (160° for ground meats, 165° for poultry), and leftovers refrigerated after an hour to prevent bacterial contamination.

For more information on food safety, visit foodsafety.gov.

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Blue Star Museums is a partnership among Blue Star Families, the National Endowment for the Arts, and more than 750 museums in all 50 states to offer free admission to military personnel and their families from Memorial Day through Labor Day (September 6, 2010).

The free admission program is available to active duty military (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard), National Guard and Reserve members and up to five immediate family members.

Participating museums in Oklahoma include: • Cherokee National Historical Society, Inc., Tahlequah 918-456-6007, cherokeeheritage.org • Cherokee Strip Museum, Alva 580-327-2030, museumsusa.org/museums/ info/1157245 • Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, Norman 405-325-3272, ou.edu/fjjma • General Tommy Franks Leadership Institute & Museum, Hobart 580-726-5900, tommyfranksmuseum.org • Guthrie Museum Complex, Guthrie 405-282-1889, oklahomaterritorialmuseum. com • Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art, Shawnee 405-878-5300, mgmoa.org • National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, OKC 405-478-2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org • Oklahoma City Museum of Art, OKC 405-236-3100, okcmoa.com • Pawnee Bill Ranch and Museum, Pawnee 918-762-2513, okhistory.org/outreach/ homes/pawneebill.html • Plains Indians and Pioneers Museum, Woodward 580-256 6136, pipm1.org • Price Tower Arts Center, Bartlesville 918-336-4949, pricetower.org • Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, Norman 405-325-4712, snomnh.ou.edu • Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art, Tulsa 918-492-1818, jewishmuseum.net • Stafford Air and Space Museum, Weatherford 580-772-5871, staffordmuseum.com • Toy & Action Figure Museum, Pauls Valley 405-238-6300, actionfiguremuseum.com Visit arts.gov/bluestarmuseums for more information and a list of participating museums from all states.

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Call 877-217-9537 to schedule a visit.

Ask about our FREE REGISTRATION* offer too.

Programs may vary by school. *Offer is for free registration for new enrollees only. Offer is valid on a space-available basis for all age groups. Offer is not redeemable or refundable for cash. Offer available only to those accounts when full tuition is paid in advance. Limit one coupon per child. One time use. Family must enroll for a minimum of three half-days per week and must not have been previously enrolled at a Learning Care Group school. Learning Care Group is not responsible for and cannot replace or redeem lost, stolen, destroyed or expired coupons. Offer not valid for Learning Care Group associates or their immediate families.

Offer valid at participating locations and subject to availability. Offer does not guarantee enrollment. Offer expires August 31, 2010. Code: Fall2010FreeReg LPA FE10 Metro Family 7.25x4.75 ad.indd 1

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July 2010

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13

Avoiding Summer Sports Injuries According to Safe Kids USA, more than 30 million American children participate in extracurricular sports each year, and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons estimates that more than 3.5 million children age 14 and younger seek medical attention each year as a result of sports injuries.

Children ages 5 to 14 account for nearly 40 percent of all sports-related injuries treated in hospital emergency departments.

The Injury Prevention Guidelines for Young Athletes are wellestablished guidelines set by The American College of Sports Medicine as a reference for kids, parents and coaches seeking to keep kids safe from overexertion during sporting games or participation in extensive practice regimens.

For children involved in baseball pitching, for example, there should be a limit on pitch count, type of pitches and a number of days of rest between outings, depending on the age group.

Morgan’s Wonderland In May, the world’s first ultra-accessible family fun park opened in San Antonio. Morgan’s Wonderland is a unique and colorful 25-acre amusement park specifically designed with special-needs individuals in mind.

“Morgan’s Wonderland is a special place where anyone can have fun,” said philanthropist Gordon Hartman, president and CEO of the Gordon Hartman Family Foundation, “but it was created with special-needs individuals in mind. We’ve taken an abandoned rock quarry in Northeast San Antonio and transformed it into an outdoor recreation oasis for those with cognitive and physical challenges.”

The inspiration for the park came from Hartman’s 16-year-old daughter Morgan, who is affected by a cognitive delay disorder. Her soaring spirit despite personal challenges sparked within Hartman a deep desire to create a haven not only for those with special needs but also for their families, caregivers and invited friends.

Morgan’s Wonderland is completely wheelchair-accessible and features more than 25 elements and attractions including rides, playgrounds, gardens, an eight-acre fishing lake, 18,000-square-foot special-events center, 575-seat amphitheater, picnic area and rest areas throughout the park.

Morgan’s Wonderland guests are required to make a reservation before visiting the park, in order to prevent overcrowding and to ensure adequate staff and volunteers to accommodate guests’ needs.

Admission for special-needs guests is free and accompanying family members and friends pay only $5. For parties that do not have those with special needs in their group, general admission is $15 per person.

For information or reservations, call 877-495-5888 (toll free) or visit morganswonderland.com.

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Because of the risk of injury, it is beneficial for young athletes to vary the types of sports they are involved in throughout the year.

Young athletes who specialize in one sport use the same muscles and joints non-stop, without recovery time. Instead, children should play multiple sports at different times of the year to allow for a chance to rest certain muscles while working others.

Some other tips to lessen the risk for overuse injuries in children include limiting the amount of time spent doing rigorous practice drills, making sure to rest a few days in between practice outings and using proper warm-up and stretching techniques before practice and games.

Parents of young athletes should be on the lookout for the warning signs of overuse injuries and pull kids off the field before injuries get serious. Common injuries among children occur in areas such as the shoulder, knee, elbow and heel, where growth plates have yet to be fused. Any time a child complains of pain, especially in the joint area, they should be examined by a doctor. “Playing through the pain” could lead to possible future complications.

It is fun for the whole family when a young athlete succeeds at sports and wins games, but it’s important that we teach our children healthy practice habits so they can continue to enjoy playing the game for years to come.

Matt Dumigan, M.D., is an orthopedic physician at McBride Clinic and is board certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery.

Movin’ and Groovin’ for Equipment Needs It was through Jacie Fite’s work as a physical therapist for Deer Creek and Mustang Public Schools that the idea for Movin’ and Grovin’ came into being. Fite heard the story of a student who needed both a walker and a wheelchair, but whose insurance company would only provide the walker. While the family struggled to come up with the necessary funding, Fite felt like there had to be a better way. “I figured that there were lots of special needs equipment in attics and garages that could still be used by other kids,” Fite explains. “I just felt like there had to be a way for families to connect and get things they needed at an affordable cost.”

Fite joined forces with her mother Joyce, a school psychologist who shared the same passion, to help families of special needs kids find the equipment they needed. In November 2009, Movin’ and Groovin’ Equipment Consignment was born in Edmond. Families with special needs children can buy and sell gently used mobility and adaptive equipment, including walkers, wheelchairs, standers, wheelchair ramps, forearm crutches and positioners. “In working with children and their families, I have found that it is often difficult to get the equipment that their child needs due to high costs,” Fite said. “Our goal is to bridge the gap and help families sell their used equipment to other families that could use it.“ Families with equipment to sell make an appointment to bring it to Fite, who then lists it on the organization’s website. The listing will stay on the site for one year or until the gear is sold, and the selling family receives 50 percent of the price. Families wishing to purchase equipment can visit the website to peruse details of available items.

To learn more about Movin’ and Groovin’, visit movinandgroovin. net or email movinandgroovin1@gmail.com.

JULY 9 © 2009 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS

July 2010

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Playhouse Parade

A Little Help for a Big Cause

Proceeds from the raffle of uniquely constructed playhouses will benefit the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers who advocate for the best interest of children in the benefit of abused or neglected children in the juvenile court system.

For the students on Little Axe Public School’s Special Olympic team, Superintendent Barry Damrill and the OKC Thunder recently came through in a pinch. “Due to damage caused by the May 10th tornado, we weren’t sure we were going to get to go to the 2010 Summer Games,” Head Coach Annethra Ross said.

“The tornado hit our area on Monday night and we had to leave for the Opening Ceremonies on Wednesday morning, so there wasn’t a lot of time.”

The CASA of Oklahoma County’s Playhouse Parade will be on display at Penn Square Mall (in the North Macy’s wing) from July 26 through August 8.

Raffle tickets ($5 each or 5 for $20) are available for sale and a tickets may be placed at any of the five houses in the display.

For more information about CASA, including how to volunteer with the organization, call 405-713-6609, or visit okcountycasa.org.

There, the team would join thousands of other special needs athletes from around Oklahoma for three days of competitions. The Little Axe team had completed local competitions and were looking forward to the Special Olympics, which the school district has competed in for more than 15 years.

Despite $1.5 million in damage to the school, the football field and the school’s administrative office, Superintendent Damrill made it a priority to get the team to the competition in time. “He told me ‘you are going to take those kids’” Ross recollects. “He literally had people cutting down trees blocking the bus barn in order to find a bus that wasn’t damaged that could drive us to Stillwater. He knows how important it is to the kids and how much they look forward to it.”

While the team might have felt that just making it to Stillwater was the highlight of this year’s competition, they had two more surprises in mind. During the Parade of Athletes in the Opening Ceremonies, the Little Axe team was publically recognized for their dedication and perseverance in making it to the competition.

Following the competition, the Oklahoma City Thunder stepped up with another surprise. A $3,000 contribution from the Thunder’s Community Foundation would be made in honor of the team to help repair the school’s special needs classroom and replace equipment, materials and resources that were destroyed by the tornado. “The Special Olympics have always been a close cause to [OKC Thunder Head Coach] Scott Brooks’ heart,” said Christine Berney, Director of Community Relations for the Thunder. “Coach Brooks was at the Opening Ceremonies and heard about the Little Axe athletes. We thought it made a lot of sense for the Thunder to help out with the tornado relief efforts in this way.”

Playhouse designed and constructed by OU College of Architecture students with support from the office of the President, David L. Boren. Photo provided by President Boren's office.

“We were just in awe to be recognized at the Opening Ceremonies,” Ross said. “And then the Thunder stepped in to help out the school. We were so touched that so many people cared so much.”

Special Olympics Oklahoma provides year-round training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities in the state of Oklahoma. For more information, call 918-481-1234 or visit specialolympicsoklahoma.org.

Children’s Safety Village Opens in Edmond Each year in the United States, hospital emergency rooms treat more than 200,000 children ages 14 and younger for playgroundrelated injuries. The National SAFE KIDS Campaign estimates that approximately three million children and adolescents ages 14 and under get hurt each year participating in recreation activities, and more than more than one in five fatal drowning victims are children ages 14 and under. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, injury is the number one cause of death and disability among children in the United States. Fortunately, most childhood injuries are preventable and the Edmond Fire Department is doing their part to help keep local children safe.

What began as just an idea on paper nearly ten years ago is now a fully operational Children’s Safety Village at 5300 East Covell Road. Located on 1.6 acres east of the Cross Timbers Fire Station (south of Covell Road and west of Air Depot Boulevard), the Children’s Safety Village features a miniature city park, buildings, streets, traffic lights, railroad crossing and vehicles.

Designed for children ages 4-10, the Safety Village provides 14 16

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different stations where preschool and elementary-aged students learn about safety in a hands-on manner and practice real-life situations related to motor vehicle safety; fire and burn safety; choking, suffocation and strangulation prevention; poisoning prevention; falls prevention; firearms injury prevention; bike and pedestrian safety and water safety. Each of the six streets and the park in the Safety Village is named after a firefighter’s child who died in an accident or by natural causes. Children who visit the Safety Village receive classroom instruction and a guided tour to practice their new safety skills.

The project was funded by a sales tax approved by Edmond residents in 2000, with support and donations from local businesses and retailers. Much of the labor for the Safety Village was completed by firefighters, allowing the project to come in under projected budget.

Firefighters will maintain and operate the Safety Village and a group of trained volunteers will lead educational classes. For more information about the Children’s Safety Village or to schedule a tour for your group, contact Edmond Fire and Rescue at 405-216-7303.

New Library Branch The Pioneer Library System is expanding with a new branch in south west Oklahoma City. The south Oklahoma City (SOKC) branch is planned to open in the fall of 2011.

“In anticipation of the new SOKC library slated to open in 2011, free family-fun activities are on the calendar at the Earlywine Park YMCA (11801 S May Ave),” said Diane Wallace, Pioneer Library Public Relations representative. “Pioneer Library System is partnering with Earlywine Park YMCA to bring these library-sponsored events to South OKC. You are invited to ‘Dive into Summer’ and join us.” All activities are held from 6:30-7:30pm.

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July 2010

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17

Family Finances Getting a Job: Resumé Tips

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raduations, improving economic conditions, children starting school, looking for better opportunities.

These are just some of the reasons people decide to start looking for a job. Even with a college degree or years of experience, finding employment in today’s economic environment is especially challenging and requires a great deal of work. A good place to start is by developing a quality resumé. A resumé is a brief summary of your educational history, your skills, your work experience and your accomplishments.

While resumés alone will not get you hired, a well written resumé can open the door for an interview with a potential employer.

follow-up phone call or email. A call might even give you an opportunity to gain a little extra information about the position or the company so you can better prepare for the interview.

Whether looking for your first job or your dream job, resumés create a first impression that can make or break your job hunt.

Following are several tips to get you started:

Crafting a Strong Resumé

• Be brief. Remember, the purpose of your resumé is to get a job interview; once you get the interview, you can provide additional information. But don’t be too brief; a good resumé highlights your Several years ago, people would send out skills and abilities, not just previous job hundreds of generic resumés hoping it titles. Be sure you present a clear focus would catch someone’s attention. With the and professional image that matches the creation of online employment services, level of the job you are seeking. many job seekers use them in the hopes that a potential employer will find a match.

• Include a career goal or objective Employers today receive hundreds of statement. Your statement should be resumés, and most experts agree that you similar to a newspaper headline or a have about ten seconds to get their attention teaser for a movie preview. Use it as and stand out from all the other applicants. a way to highlight your strengths and When submitting a customized resumé, you how they are relevant to your potential can help get an employer’s attention with a employer.

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July 2010

Instead of writing that you were an account manager, say that you managed 150 accounts valued at $7 million or you increased sales by 15 percent in three years.

• Make it pop. Be sure your resumé has eye-appeal. That includes using easy to read typefaces, uniform and consistent styles or designs, bullet points to emphasize your assets, and absolutely no typos, grammatical errors or punctuation problems. Most experts recommend using at least an 11 or 12 point readable font in an organized format to help present a positive image.

• Omit the obvious. Avoid including trite phrases such as “available for an interview” or “references available.” If you are not available for an interview or have no references, then you shouldn’t be applying for the job.

• Protect your reputation. Be very careful about what is posted on social network sites before asking a future employer to view it. While pictures of partying or friends and family may be fun to share with people you know, it probably is not the type of information you want to share with human resource staff or your potential boss. Postings on web sites reflect your character, your values, your level of maturity and your ability to handle responsibility. So, be careful about what they say about you when looking for a job. Future employers are now using them as one more tool to screen applicants.

The type of job or career you choose can have long-term implications for you and your family. In addition to providing food, clothing and shelter, employment opportunities can impact insurance, savings, college for children, retirement and other financial issues that affect a family’s financial well-being. Taking the time to research resumé writing tips and prepare a winning resumé greatly increases your odds of finding the best way to present yourself on paper to a potential employer and increases your family’s financial security.

Next month’s topic will continue the jobsearch theme, discussing how to make a good impression when you get your interview.

Sue Lynn Sasser, PhD, is an associate professor of economics at the University of Central Oklahoma.

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19

A Primer for Parents Susan Bagley knew something was terribly wrong as she carried her daughter into the emergency room. Bagley’s daughter was having trouble breathing and her face was swelling.

“My daughter’s food allergy was never suspected until the anaphylaxis episode,” recalls Bagley. “She had a history of Reactive Airway Disease (RAD) that was always treated as its own issue. Looking back, I realize now that her episodes could have been small exposures to the allergens. She was almost four (years old) when we found out and had the ‘perfect storm’ of allergens. She is the most allergic to almonds and cashews. One of each nut was consumed (that night).”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the mechanisms by which a person develops an allergy to specific foods are largely unknown.

“Even with my professional background as a Registered Dietitian and almost two years of breastfeeding, and a cautious approach to feeding age-appropriate foods as it relates to allergens, I found myself dumbfounded that my child would even be remotely susceptible to a food allergy,” says Bagley, “But, it can happen.”

A Growing Problem “Families often learn of a food allergy after a child’s first allergic reaction,” says Dr. Rita Malhotra-Kuczabski, M.D., author of Doctor Mom’s Prescription for Managing Food Allergies.

Approximately 3 million U.S. children and teenagers under the age of 18 have a food or digestive allergy, an increase of 18 percent between 1997 and 2007, according to a report by the CDC. “If a parent has suspicion that their child may have a food allergy they should seek attention from a board certified allergist immediately.

If the child is allergic, it is imperative that an emergency action plan be formed, and appropriate medications be carried at all times,” says Dr. Malhotra-Kuczabski.

In the case of Bagley’s daughter, immediate medical attention was required because of the severity of her reaction to the allergen.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis can appear within minutes to a few hours after eating a food.

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“Anaphylaxis is life threatening. Within seconds, my daughter’s facial extremities were swelling. It’s an emergency condition that needs to be addressed immediately,” recalls Bagley. “(My daughter) was treated at the emergency room. The next day she was seen by her primary care physician then referred out to an allergist.”

The Basics According to The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN), “a food allergy is a condition in which the immune system incorrectly identifies a food protein as a threat and attempts to protect the body against it by releasing chemicals into the blood. The release of these chemicals results in the symptoms of an allergic reaction.”

“Although food allergies typically develop during early childhood, they can arise later, even in adult years. Milk and egg tend to surface in young children, while fish and shellfish often manifest in older kids and adults,” says Dr. Malhotra-Kuczabski. “It’s worthy of mention that an individual can develop an allergy to a previously tolerated food.”

People who reacted mildly to a food in the past may suddenly start reacting more severely.

A FAAN review of food allergy fatalities found that most of the people had never had a severe allergic reaction until the one that caused their death.

Dr. Malhotra-Kuczabski says that there are often factors that serve as early warning signs of an allergic reaction.

“Families with atopic histories (such as asthma, food or environmental allergies or eczema) are at heightened risk. Infants with eczema or atopic dermatitis may be showing you early signs of allergic disease. In addition, asthma and chronic runny nose can be manifestations of allergies,” says Dr. Malhotra-Kuczabski.

A Different World Parents may feel overwhelmed when they find July 2010

Common Allergens & Symptoms Eight types of food account for 90 percent of all food allergies: • • • • • • • •

Milk Eggs Peanuts Tree nuts Fish Shellfish Soy Wheat

Allergy symptoms from a food allergy can range from mild to life-threatening. The most common symptoms include: • • • •

Hives Itchy Rash Swelling Itching, tingling or swollen lips, tongue or mouth • Vomiting • Abdominal cramps • Diarrhea Food allergies are more prevalent in children than adults. Most children with food allergies will outgrow the problem, but it can remain a lifelong issue.

Resources • Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network: foodallergy.org Nonprofit organization devoted to educating the public about food allergies.

• Kids With Food Allergies: kidswithfoodallergies.org Nonprofit food allergy organization providing information and support to families and caregivers.

• Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America: aafa.org Not-for-profit agency dedicated to improving the lives of people with allergies or asthma.

out that their child has a food allergy. Gone are the carefree days when a parent can drop a toddler off at a friend’s for a play date or at a nursery without worrying about an innocent snack that might make their child very sick.

“Even trace amounts can cause a reaction in someone who is allergic,” said Jennifer Love, spokesperson for FAAN. “Skin contact or inhalation of protein (steam from cooking an allergen) can sometimes trigger it.”

“My daughter’s allergy is to tree nuts, peanuts and sesame. Because of her severity, we cannot even have products in the house that are processed in the same facility of the allergens,” says Bagley.

“Challenges do arise when it comes to travel, going out to eat, birthday parties, but we do the best we can. We plan ahead, consult restaurants and speak to chefs, pack food, keep frozen cupcakes for birthday parties. For the most part, people are understanding and want to help you the best that they can.”

There is no cure for food allergies. Strict avoidance of the food a child is allergic to is the only means by which to prevent a reaction.

Dr. Malhotra-Kuczabski suggests the following to parents and caregivers who are new to food allergies: • • • • •

Become a vigilant and experienced label reader.

Contact manufacturers to inquire about shared food production lines and facilities.

Set clear rules about accepting any food without approval.

Have an emergency action plan.

Carry medications, wipes, soap and snacks at all times.

“Labeling laws are not perfect. There are significant loopholes.

Becoming familiar with them is essential,” says Dr. MalhotraKuczabski.

Parents of young children are their child’s advocate when it comes to verbalizing the importance of avoidance of the allergen. Sometimes it’s difficult for people who are not familiar with food allergies to understand the implications of a child’s exposure to a food to which they are allergic.

“Work with others to keep your child safe. It is important to work with school, camp, and childcare staff, as well as anyone else who interacts closely with or cares for your child, to discuss food allergy management and how an allergic reaction will be recognized and treated,” says Love.

Janine Boldrin is a freelance writer and mother of three. Her daughter has a milk allergy.

July 2010

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News You Can Use: KFOR In Your Corner: Amazing Oklahomans

P

rofessional problem-solver Scott Hines wore a number of hats before becoming KFOR’s consumer investigative reporter. He says he was truly “in the right place at the right time” when he took the helm of the popular consumer activist segment In Your Corner in 2007, leading him to investigate a wide variety of scams and dishonest business practices affecting Oklahomans.

While his career has spanned everything from sports reporting to interning with E! Entertainment Television, it is with In Your Corner that Scott feels he has found his perfect fit. “It is such a rewarding job,” Hines explains. “I get to meet people from all walks of life who are struggling with a problem. We are able to provide a hand and help make a bad situation good.”

Fixing negative situations and offering timely consumer advice has made Hines a popular man at NewsChannel 4, where he receives hundreds of calls and emails each week from individuals seeking help. “I love being able to bring it full circle and really immerse myself in a story. It’s all about being able to see yourself through the eyes of people living it.”

The stories that Scott covers range from shedding light on his “Scam of the Week” to highlighting the stories of consumers seeking restitution from businesses and individuals who have failed to deliver on goods and services as promised. Recent stories have included a local daycare that closed its doors with no notice to its employees and clients, a single mother facing a utility bill of more than $6,000, and home repair frauds affecting families

seeking to repair storm damage.

Many times, his investigations often lead to quick resolution for his subjects—including the unusual story of an Oklahoma family whose loved one was buried in the wrong cemetery plot (which Hines resolved within 30 minutes) and a local mother who struggled for months to get her SUV fixed at a repair shop (for whom Hines ensured timely repairs and a mutually-agreeable payment plan.) But sometimes, even the consumer protection king needs a helping hand.

“The cliché of Oklahomans being blessed with generosity is so true,” Hines says. “I encounter so many selfless and humble people. If we can’t reach a resolution through the station, it's almost guaranteed that someone will step up to the plate in a big way.”

And some of the most meaningful stories that Hines has covered were solved by the kindness of Oklahomans. Two stories in particular stick out in his mind.

The first involved a recently widowed Oklahoma City man who fell prey to a loan modification scam that nearly cost him his home. After the story aired with no resolution from the California-based company, it was a handful of viewers that saved the man’s mortgage by contributing cash to help him bring his account current.

“I was amazed by the generosity of people who didn’t even know him, but took the time to give out of their own pockets,” Hines recalls. “And more importantly, they helped give him hope.”

Recently, Scott provided a touching update

on a family struggling to find handicapped accessible transportation for Jacob Pyle, a Norman teenager affected by Muscular Dystrophy. The family had contacted Scott a few months ago when they were unable to qualify for assistance from government agencies to help with their problem.

Though Jacob was confined to a wheelchair, his high IQ made him unable to qualify for transportation assistance, and Hines’ investigation ran into the same dead-ends and frustrations.

After learning of the family’s difficulty, a local foundation stepped forward to provide a fully equipped handicapped-accessible van. The new wheels were provided by the Nathan Shinn Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to making a positive impact on children with special needs.

“Before the Shinn Foundation stepped up, the family had to load Jacob into the back of a pickup truck,” Scott explains. “Stories like these really allow you to put things into perspective and truly appreciate the blessings that are out there.” Pyle was the first recipient of the Shinn Foundation’s generosity, a contribution that Hines reported served as a “road map of hope” for the family.

Attention Teens/Tweens!

Jim Tolbert ’53, Owner, Full Circle Bookstore, Chairman, Dean McGee Eye Institute Daniela Rodriguez-Chavez, Casady Student, Class of 2019

Today I read to learn.

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Tomorrow I encourage others to read.

You might be aware of our academic prowess, or the pride and excitement at every one of our sporting events. You might be interested in our inspiring 80-acre campus or renowned art and drama program. But it doesn’t mean a thing unless our students grow and succeed. Before our students become leaders, we challenge their minds and build their spirit. It’s all by design.

Ask any Casady student or graduate.

They’re always well-prepared.

Financial aid available. Casady School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.

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Wonderland Adventure at Gaylord Texan Resort Happy endings such as these make Scott’s job even more meaningful, and he says he is constantly impressed by the solutions that come directly from the viewers who feel called to action after seeing his reports.

“Oklahomans never cease to amaze me,” Hines reflects. “Just when I think they can’t give any more, they do.”

For the Alice in you.

You can follow Scott’s activities on behalf of Oklahoma consumers on his blog and watch videos of past In Your Corner segments on NewsChannel 4’s web site at kfor.com/inyourcorner and keep up with Scott on Twitter at twitter.com/inyourcorner.

If you have a problem to report, contact Scott at the In Your Corner hotline at 405-478-6363, email inyourcorner@kfor. com or complete the form online. Watch the In Your Corner segment weeknights on NewsChannel 4 at 10:00pm.

Assistant Editor Brooke Barnett lives in Norman with her husband and two young children.

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Oklahoma Reads Great Reads for All Board Books

Grades 4-6

Touchy Feely Trucks

by Fiona Watt and Rachel Wells (Usborne Books, hardcover, $15.99)

Max Goes to Jupiter

By Jeffrey Bennett, Nick Schneider and Erica Ellingson; illustrated by Michael Carroll (Big Kid Science, hardcover, $16.95)

Brightly colored images, descriptive text and lots of interesting textures for little fingers make for a title your little ones will love.

Grades PreK-2 Bob’s Best Ever Friend

by Simon Bartram (Templar Books, hardcover, $16.99) Young readers will love the whimsical world of Bob as he goes on his search for a new best friend in the form of a pet.

Grades 3 and up Zack the Prairie Dog

By S. Charles Decker (of Norman, OK) (Tate Publishing, hardcover, $19.99)

A rottweiler astronaut? Sure, why not? Go along with Max to visit the far-flung planet and hear discussions about astronomy along with a surprising lesson in values. Filled with great visuals of outer space and whimsical images of the astronaut dog.

The Reinvention of Edison Thomas

By Jacqueline Houtman (Front Street, hardcover, $17.95) Eddy is a boy who doesn’t quite fit in, and prefers his inventions to interacting with others. When the situation demands that he interact, he finds his friends.

Books for Adults

Zack and Cody, both of whom have autism, share adventures in a layered tale that will teach readers to appreciate the differences in themselves and others.

Bright illustrations and poetic prose make reading it fun but the lessons make it powerful.

A Special Mother

by Anne Ford with John-Richard Thompson (Newmarket Press, softcover, $16.95) When faced with the diagnosis of a learning disorder, parents may feel very alone. This book provides comfort in the form of advice and stories from others who have gone through it before.

Radical Homemakers

by Shannon Hayes (Left to Write Press, softcover, $23.95) Worried about the state of the world today? This book urges you to reclaim your life from the consumer culture and learn to do it yourself again. A great read for those who really want to keep it local and invest in their own communities.

Parenting an Adult with Disabilities or Special Needs

by Peggy Lou Morgan (AMACOM, softcover, $17.95) What happens when your special needs child grows up? This is a resource for parents to turn to when they’re not quite sure what the future will hold, going beyond the days of Individual Education Plans and offering advice for how to help your adult child be an advocate for himself and cope with leaving home and striking out on his own.

Toad Cottages & Shooting Stars

by Sharon Lovejoy (Workman Publishing, softcover, $14.95) Does summertime mean a weekend with the grandparents? This book is chock-full of ideas and activities perfect for grandparents to share with their grandchildren. Recipes, bird-watching guides and detailed activities mean that you will create lasting memories for a lifetime.

Reviews by MetroFamily Magazine editor Mari Farthing.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that about three children in every one thousand between the ages of three and ten will be diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a disorder that was virtually unheard of 30 years ago. Experts are largely unsure as to why there are so many more children being diagnosed with an ASD but many believe like Whitney Villanueva, an Oklahoma City mom of two children, both with autism spectrum disorders. “I think they (individuals with autism) are diagnosed more,” Whitney explains. “But I think it’s more of what we used to consider quirkiness is actually an autism spectrum disorder.”

What is Autism?

Autism is one of five developmental disorders found on the autism spectrum. General ASD symptoms may include: • Repetitive body movements or behavior patterns • Difficulty with changes in routine or familiar surroundings • Problems with using and understanding language • Difficulty relating to people, objects and events • Unusual play with toys and other objects ASD symptoms are often noticed in children between ages three and ten, and often as early as age one. There is no known definite cause or treatment for ASDs at this time.

Living With Autism Being the parent of two children with ASDs can be challenging at many times, but Whitney and her husband Albert don’t know any other way. “In our house we don’t know what a ‘typical’ kid is because we don’t have one,” said Whitney.

The impact of autism can be felt beyond the borders of the Villanueva family. “I’ve lost friends that were friends prior to having kids. They had neuro-typical children but our kids don’t fit in that box. So they didn’t find any similarities,” she said. “They would still talk to me but they didn't know how to handle my kids.” On the other side of that coin, “The amount of people that we’ve met because of [autism] is huge.” She compares living with autism to living among a ‘secret society,’ in which the residents can really relax, secure in the knowledge that there is no judgement from one another. “The people we know can come to our house or we can go to their house and we don’t feel like we have to constantly follow our kids around to see what they are doing,” said Whitney.

Processing and Generalizing “It’s a processing thing,” said Whitney. Kids with ASDs don’t realize that things are supposed to go in a pre-set order, like A-BC. “They want to go A-C-B,” said Whitney. “They’re not sure of the sequencing.”

Other things that people with typically-developing kids may not understand is that what may be thought of as a simple process—like brushing your teeth—is a much larger undertaking for children with ASDs. “Something that would take us just three steps you have to break down into ten,” said Whitney. “You think, you just go in there and brush your teeth; but you have to go in there, turn on the light, pick up the toothbrush, pick up the toothpaste, take the cap off.

You have to break it down into baby steps for the kids for them to understand the process.”

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But don’t generalize, because that would be a mistake. “Albert and I speak at autism training for teachers,” said Whitney. “I always make it very clear: things that I talk about are in our case. If you’ve seen one autistic kid, then you’ve seen one autistic kid. They’re all so different.”

Understanding Diego, age 12 Whitney’s oldest child, Diego, showed some developmental delays as a toddler. “Diego did not speak until he was three,” said Whitney.

“At about age 2 ½ we got involved with SoonerStart.” At age three, Diego became too old for SoonerStart and began attending a private preschool, and one of the speech therapists at the school mentioned that Diego may have Asperger’s.

According to the Autism Society of America, children with Asperger’s syndrome may have mild symptoms and present to others as a “typical” child who acts a bit differently. Children with Asperger’s want to fit in but aren’t sure how to do it. There is generally not a speech delay in children with Asperger’s, but obsessive behavior is common. Whitney notes that these are just a few of the symptoms, and they are generalizations.

Whitney has noticed the obsessive behavior in her son. “We went to the Mall of the Americas and Diego memorized the floor plan of all the levels of the mall.” She has also noticed that as Diego gets older (he is currently 12), his ability to cope with societal expectations is advancing. “Diego has found it’s easier to say he’s a vegetarian because he doesn’t like red meat and he has a very limited diet of things that he’ll eat. He doesn’t like sweets and will say he’s allergic to chocolate because he doesn’t like it, and people don’t understand that.”

Understanding Melina, age 8 When Diego was about four, Whitney’s daughter Melina was born.

“When Melina came along, at about 18 months she wasn’t speaking or relating. We kind of knew what to look for, so we began SoonerStart.”

Melina was diagnosed as autistic when she was four by a pediatric neurologist. Through testing, it was determined that she had major indicators of autism, which were evidenced by her interactions with both people and objects. “Melina didn't say 'mama' until she was about 4 ½ years old,” said Whitney.

The Learning Curve Make no mistake, it has not been an easy road for Whitney and her husband, Albert. “My mindset was: I did this, so I have to fix this,” said Whitney. “It’s sad because you see all these other parents

Brother and sister Diego and Melina Villanueva love to spend time in the pool.

Diego, 12, has Asperger’s Syndrome and Melina, 8, has Autism.

running their young kids to soccer practice or ballet, but you don’t get to do that. You’re running your kids to occupational therapy, physical therapy or speech. You go through that, when you first get the diagnoses,” said Whitney.

Whitney was able to let go of trying to "fix" her family and learned to embrace it instead. “I heard of a poem called ‘Welcome to Holland’ which explains that when you have a special needs child, it’s like planning a trip. You plan and prepare for Italy, but when you land, you’re in Holland. I was reminded that it’s still beautiful and wonderful, it’s just different than you expected.”

Whitney names Dee Blose, of the Canadian Valley Autism Center, as a huge help to her when she first learned of her children’s ASD diagnoses. “She kind of led the way for us,” said Whitney. “I had all these visions of what was going to be and I had to let go of all of those dreams and connect with what I had.”

Knowledge is Power: Is it ASD? “My husband and I both went through a ‘dark period’ when our children were diagnosed, but it quickly faded as we began to branch out and meet many other parents who are just like us with children on the autism spectrum—and let me tell you, these are incredible people. We have formed some wonderful close friends through the Autism Society of Central Oklahoma, the Canadian Valley Support group and Team Autism.”

For those who suspect their child may be on the ASD spectrum, Whitney advises, “The one thing that people need to realize is the importance of early intervention. If you think it’s a problem, then act on it. Don’t listen to those who tell you that nothing is wrong if your gut tells you that something is wrong.”

Mari Farthing is the Editor of MetroFamily Magazine.

Photography by Aimee Adams Photography | aimeeadamsphoto.com

Autism Spectrum Disorders: There are five “pervasive developmental disorders” found on the autism spectrum: • Asperger’s syndrome • Autism • Childhood disintegrative disorder • Pervasive developmental disorder • Rett syndrome Autism is the most characteristic and best-studied of these. ASDs are all characterized by delay of social and communication skills. Children with such disorders vary widely in abilities, intelligence, and behaviors. Experts agree that early intervention and specialized education are key components in treating the condition.

Resources for Families: • National Institute of Mental Health: nimh.nih.gov/ health/publications/autism/complete-index.shtml • Oklahoma Autism Network: okautism.org (includes a list of local parent-led organizations) • Oklahoma Autism Network: ah.ouhsc.edu/tolbert/ OKAutism.asp • Autism Society of America—Central OK: asofok.org

July 2010

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Your Healthy Family Gluten-Free Living

A

s parents, we often face challenges trying to protect the health of our children. With our fast-paced lifestyles, sometimes it’s hard enough to ensure that our children eat a balanced diet. How much harder would it be if 90 percent of the food on the grocery store shelves was off-limits for your child?

With a growing population of children on a gluten-free diet, this is becoming a reality for many families. On the other hand, as more and more research points to dietary links as a likely factor in many health problems, gluten-free diets have been getting increased media attention in recent years. This awareness has led to an

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increase in product availability and easyto-read allergy labeling, but living glutenfree is still a struggle for many families.

The Ford family of Edmond began limiting gluten in their household three years ago, and now two of the four members are living gluten-free. Mom Kristin admits it’s been a long road, and was eager to share her story. “So many people don’t even understand what gluten is, let alone why we would want to limit or remove it from our diets.” I admit, I hadn’t given the issue much thought until I met the Fords.

What is Gluten?

The term “gluten” actually refers to a combination of proteins found in many grains, most notably wheat, barley, and rye.

Gluten is also often used as a food additive in the form of a flavoring, stabilizing or thickening agent. Because of its many uses, gluten is present in most processed foods found in local grocery stores.

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Why Gluten-Free?

Gluten-free diets are recommended in the treatment of celiac disease, non-celiac gluten intolerance, wheat allergies, and chronic migraines, as well as certain neurological disorders. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder of the small intestine that occurs in genetically predisposed individuals of all ages. Celiac disease is caused by a reaction to gluten, and causes an inflammatory reaction in the small bowel and intestines, which interferes with the absorption of nutrients.

Gluten-sensitivity has been linked to many common health problems, such as asthma, allergies, and eczema, as well as non-specific autoimmune symptoms. In addition, some research has linked autism and similar developmental disorders to dietary sources of gluten and casein, a protein found in dairy products. This is what led the Fords to consider a glutenfree diet.

“We began looking into a gluten-free diet because of our son’s neurological issues,” says Ford. William, now 6, has been diagnosed with Sensory Integration Disorder, Gross Motor Apraxia, and Speech Apraxia. “About three years ago, there was a lot of buzz about glutenfree diets reducing symptoms of autism.

Although William isn’t autistic, some of his developmental issues were similar to those found on the autism spectrum, so we figured it was worth a try.”

Ford started reducing prepackaged foods and gluten-containing products in the entire family’s diet, and the results surprised her. “No question the whole family was healthier. We were eating out less, and had eliminated a lot of processed foods. But the reduced-gluten diet seemed to have an even bigger effect on my older daughter than it did on William.” Fifthgrader Makenzie—“Zie” to her friends and family—had always suffered from chronic asthma, allergies and eczema, as well as a few other autoimmune symptoms. “We never could pinpoint a diagnosis, but when we changed our diet, she got so much better.”

Zie agrees. “When I started eating glutenfree, my rash finally went away!” She’s also had fewer problems with her allergies and asthma. According to Kristin, “We no longer have to take the nebulizer to school!” She also notes that people who have known Zie for years have commented on how healthy she’s looking these days.

“Before the switch, she always had dark

circles under her eyes, and she [looked] gaunt. Now, her color’s good and she looks great!”

The benefits didn’t stop there. Kristin herself switched to a low-carb diet in 2009, which significantly reduced her gluten intake. Not only did she lose 52 pounds over the next 9 months, she felt better than she had in years. “I had less abdominal discomfort, and the swelling in my hands and feet went away. I realized I’d just gotten used to these symptoms, until they stopped!” She, too, recently switched to a gluten-free diet.

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But, How Practical is it?

Both Zie and Kristin agree that it’s easier to live gluten-free now than when they started.

“It’s trial and error. You have to figure out what you like,” says Kristin. She especially likes the 30-day return guarantee at Akin's Natural Foods Market in OKC. “If you try a product and don’t like it, they’ll give you a refund within 30 days.” Kristin has found some good online sources, but she prefers to shop locally when she can. “Homeland and Target offer gluten-free products, and the small health food stores are wonderful sources.” Recent trends show that their selection should continue to improve.

According to the Neilsen Company, glutenfree product sales increased by 74 percent between 2004 and 2009.

Even with a wider availability of gluten-free products, the Fords admit it isn’t always easy. “We try to make sure Zie isn’t feeling left out, even if we go out.” They bring snacks and gluten-free fare along with them when they’re away from home. “We’ve had a warm reception from her friends’ families, and her school is good about accommodating her. Several moms even prepare gluten-free foods at birthday parties and sleepovers that they serve along with regular food, so she feels included.”

As for Makenzie, she admits that, “sometimes it’s hard on pizza day at school when I’m stuck with cold lunch, but I know I’ll feel better if I don’t eat it.” When asked if she likes eating gluten-free, she brightens.

“Oh, I have most of the things other people have, like bread and crackers. My grandma even found me snickerdoodle cookies!”

For more information on gluten-free diets, contact a healthcare provider or a licensed dietitian.

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Dear Teacher Q&A With the Experts Preschooler Motivation Question: How can I motivate my 2-year-old daughter so that she will be ready to enter school?

—Anxious

Answer: Relax; you don’t have to do anything to motivate young children to learn how to do things. They are born eager to acquire new skills, from rolling over to walking and talking. Of course, even if 2-year-olds want to put on their shoes, chances are they won’t be successful.

However, you can kill their desire to learn this task and other developmental tasks if you take full responsibility for getting every job done and won't even let them help.

As babies grow into toddlers and then preschoolers, parents need to pull back a bit so children remain motivated to keep learning to do more for themselves. Parents need to encourage their young children’s efforts when they begin learning how to fasten buttons and pull up zippers so they

will remain self-motivated to keep learning to do more for themselves. At the same time, you have to be careful with your daughter’s desire to learn to read, write and work with numbers, to be sure that these activities remain fun for her and don’t become academic ventures. Most preschoolers are quite satisfied to “pretend read” books; it is not likely that they need or would enjoy formal phonics instructions.

Children this age have an intense curiosity about her world. Your daughter has an inner drive to explore, interact with and make sense of her environment. Build on this drive by giving her numerous opportunities—using magnifying glasses, studying ants, watching the tide come in and observing the sunset. Turning on the TV or computer is a very poor substitute for real-life experiences and it can lead to boredom.

Summer Science Activities Parents: Keep your children in learning mode this summer with science activities.

These fun experiments are based on

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Experiment #1: Which fruit decays the fastest? This is fun because your children will see the fruit blow up a balloon. When fruit decays, bacteria multiply as they eat up the fruit. In processing the food, the bacteria give off gas.

Mash a ripe banana and put it into a bottle.

Then place a balloon over the mouth of the bottle, and put the bottle in a warm, sunny place. Measure how far the balloon inflates each day for a few days. Do the same thing with other fruit, such as grapes, apples and oranges to answer the experiment question.

Experiment #2: Is one eye better than two? You’ll need an eye patch and a fairly small ball for this experiment. Two children should stand several feet apart and toss the ball back and forth 10 times. Older children should catch the ball with one hand. Then one child should put on an eye patch. Again, the children should toss the ball to each other. Total how many times the child caught the ball with and without the eye

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patch. Then have the other child use the eye patch.

Experiment #3: Is your skin the same everywhere? Make a big black area of about 3 inches square by rubbing a soft pencil on a sheet of paper. Put a finger on the spot until it picks up a big smudge. Then pick up the smudge from your finger with a piece of Scotch tape and press it onto a piece of white paper. Do the same with other parts of your body. Did your skin prints differ?

Experiment #4: How hard is your heart working? Take your pulse lying down, and then after doing these exercises: sitting, standing and jumping 10 times. Rest between each activity. Does your pulse rate change with what you do?

Experiment #5: Does air expand when it is heated? Blow up a balloon and measure the distance around it at its widest point (circumference). Next, turn on a lamp and hold the balloon above it for 2 to 3 minutes. Then measure the distance around the balloon's circumference again. What happened to the size of the balloon?

Experiment #6: Can you stick a pin in a balloon without popping it? Ask your children if they think that it is possible to stick a pin in a balloon without popping it. Blow up a latex balloon until it is about three-quarters full of air and tie off the end. Next, cut seven pieces of strong, sticky tape and secure each one firmly to the outside of the balloon. Try to space them evenly. Then carefully stick a straight pin through the middle of each piece of tape. Why didn’t the balloon burst? (The sticky tape forms a seal around the pin.)

Experiment #7: How does gravity work? Gravity causes all objects to be pulled toward each other. Because Earth is the biggest object around, it has the strongest pull of gravity. Place a marble in a bottle. Turn the bottle over. What happens? Again, place a marble in a bottle. Move the bottle so the marble starts going around inside it. Keep moving the bottle and gradually turn the bottle on its side and then upside down. Did the marble fall out of the bottle?

It shouldn't have. Centrifugal force should have pulled the marble away from the bottle neck and overcome the gravity that would cause it to fall out.

For kids interested in science, here are a few websites with information and activities: •

exploratorium.edu/explore/handson.html Find activities like making a mummy and making your own lava lamp. Activities answer questions like “Why is the sky blue?” and “How do batteries work?”

• pbskids.org/zoom/activities/sci Over 100 experiments in nine different categories.

Also, you will find many additional experiments on the Dear Teacher website, in Resources under Activities.

Dear Teacher is written by Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts. Do you have a question? Send it to dearteacher@ dearteacher.com or visit DearTeacher.com.

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Physical Handicaps, Grateful Spirit How the Moffatt family lives with CP

In giving some background about her family, Amanda Moffatt states very matter-of-factly that “her oven is broken.” All three of her children—Gavin (age 8), Gabriel (age 4) and Leo (age 2) were born prematurely, none weighing more than 4 pounds at birth. “My nephew weighed more on the day he was born than Gavin weighed at four months old,” Moffatt says. “When I look at a full-term baby, I can’t help but think ‘Wow, they are huge!’” In addition to weighing in at only 3 pounds, 11 ounces at birth, Gavin is unique for another reason—he is one of the estimated 764,000 individuals in the U.S. affected by cerebral palsy (CP).

Getting to Know Cerebral Palsy According to United Cerebral Palsy, CP is characterized by an individual’s inability to fully control motor function, particularly muscle control and coordination. CP is not caused by problems in the muscles or nerves—rather, it is caused by damage to the motor areas of the brain that disrupt the brain’s ability to adequately control movement and posture.

In the US, an estimated 70 percent of cases of CP happen before birth, when the unborn child suffers a brain injury, infection or abnormal development of brain tissue. Another 20 percent of CP cases are caused by a brain injury that occurs during the birthing process. About 10 percent of children with CP acquire it through brain damage in the first few months or years of life through brain infections, head injuries, abuse or accidents. Approximately 8,000 babies and infants, and 1,200-1,500 preschool age children, are diagnosed with cerebral palsy each year. It is estimated that two out of every 1,000 newborn children will develop cerebral palsy, and approximately 40 percent of those born with CP will have a severe case. CP is the most common motor disorder and is second only to autism as the most common disability in children.

Individuals with CP exhibit muscle tightness or spasticity, involuntary movements, disturbances in gait or mobility, problems with speech and learning disabilities. CP is not a disease, and is neither progressive nor communicable.

An Unexpected Arrival Moffatt’s pregnancy with Gavin in 2001 was completely normal.

“We did not know before Gavin was born that he had cerebral palsy,”

she explains. “Five weeks before my due date, I realized that I did not feel him move very much one day and I had some pain in my upper stomach and thought perhaps it was contractions.” At the urging of her sister-in-law who was a nurse, Moffatt went to her obstetrician for an ultrasound. She ended up at Southwest Medical Center, where doctors realized that the baby was in distress. Further complicating matters was the fact that Amanda was preeclamptic and her blood pressure was high. Her labor was induced, but after doctors conducted a biophysical profile on the baby and realized her amniotic fluid was low, she underwent an emergency c-section.

“I remember laying on a table and listening to the doctor and operating room staff place good natured guesses on the size and weight of the baby,” Amanda recalls. “When he was born, the first thing the doctor said was ‘He’s not as big as I thought.’”

Since Southwest Medical Center did not have a NICU, Gavin was immediately medi-flighted to Baptist Medical Center. While still hospitalized for the after-effects of the preeclampsia, Amanda was granted a temporary medical release to go visit her baby. “That was an unusual practice for a hospital,” Amanda said. “Now, I know that they weren’t sure Gavin was going to make it and wanted to make sure I got to see him.”

After being in the NICU for 15 days, the Moffatts took Gavin home on January 1, 2002. “We were sent home with a diagnosis of ‘failure to thrive’ because he was not gaining weight,” Amanda said. “It was the opinion of his doctors that things would get better once we got home and settled—and they did.”

The Low End of Normal It was her sister-in-law that started noticing certain things about Gavin’s behavior, mostly that he was not reaching typical guidelines for infant development. At 10 months, Gavin wasn’t sitting up or crawling. “He had no trunk control. He could lift his head and roll over, but he was not pulling up or doing anything like that,” Amanda explained. Concerned, the Moffatts began seeking referrals for a special needs doctor.

Their new pediatrician sent them to a pediatric neurologist, who conducted an MRI and showed them a photo of Gavin’s brain. Due to the low amniotic fluid, the neurologist explained that Gavin had laid on his umbilical cord and was temporarily deprived of oxygen,

Types of Cerebral Palsy:

Resources for Families:

• Spastic: characterized by muscle stiffness and permanent contractions

SoonerStart Oklahoma City: 405-271-9477 Norman: 405-321-4048 Early Childhood Intervention for children birth to age 3 with developmental delays.

Developmental assessment.

• Athetoid or Dyskinetic: characterized by uncontrolled, slow, writhing movements • Ataxic: characterized by poor coordination and balance 32

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My Child Without Limits mychildwithoutlimits.org Online community, resources and information about CP for parents, families, professionals and caregivers of children ages zero to five, newly diagnosed with a disability or developmental delay.

Madalyn McCollom, the Director of the

resulting in brain damage on the left side of his brain. The Moffatts asked what to expect and were told that Gavin would be on the “low end of normal intelligence” and limited use of his right hand.

By the time he was two years old, Gavin was working with a physical therapist, an occupational therapist and a speech pathologist for his spastic CP. His doctors were pleased with his progress. “It was just doctor after doctor—we went to a different doctor for everything,” Amanda recalled.

As Gavin graduated from the SoonerStart program, his doctors encouraged the family to send him to public school. “When the day came for him to go to Pre-K, I cried and he didn’t,” Amanda said.

“And then I cried because he didn’t cry!” Gavin did well in school and loved being around other kids. Amanda went into what she describes as “resource mode,” investigating what the family could get and do to make life easier for Gavin.

Getting to Know Gavin “Gavin is very sensitive and very in tune to what’s going on around him,” Amanda says of her oldest child. “He loves to play Transformers with his brothers and play with Nerf guns with his cousins. He is very ornery, just like any other kid his age.”

Gavin loves to read, listen to music and watch Nickelodeon, particularly the show iCarly. The front wheels of his wheelchair light up, similar to many of his classmates’ tennis shoes. “He has a memory like nothing you’d believe. He can watch a movie and remember every aspect,” she says. “It’s weird how some of the synapses in his brain don’t work right, but then others super-fire.”

“Gavin thinks he can do it all,” Amanda explained. “For a long time, he was truly not aware that he was different than other kids.”

Amanda said her family is often asked about getting a motorized wheelchair for Gavin and she chuckles “At this age, he just isn’t ready for that kind of power!”

As his brothers have gotten older, they have come to realize that Gavin can’t get up and chase them if they take something of his, but he can certainly wrestle with them if they get close enough. “The joke in our house is that you can take something from Gavin, but you’d better not let him catch you,” Amanda explained. “My other kids just play around with him—it’s just a normal part of their world.”

The Importance of Independence The ultimate truth for Moffatt is that life with Gavin is exactly what they make it. “He is just as handicapped as we treat him. He can do things himself and we don’t enable him (to do things we know he is capable of doing on his own). That’s what allows him to be in a regular classroom in school and stimulates him to be able to have a regular conversation.”

At this time, there is no cure for CP. Training and therapy, however, can improve muscle function and coordination and studies have found that children who receive early intervention services are more likely to lead a typical life. Treatment options for individuals affected by CP include therapy, medications, surgery, education and support. In medical circles, there is hope that advances in neuroplasticity, neural regeneration and neuroprotection may Oklahoma Areawide Services Information System (OASIS) program at the OU Health Sciences Center said, “If someone calls our office with a newborn or a child recently diagnosed with a disability, we can help them locate sources for assistance, support groups, or national organizations with helpful information. We can put parents in touch with great advocacy organizations

Photography by Aimee Adams Photography | aimeeadamsphoto.com

lead to a cure in the future.

The Moffatts are currently considering taking Gavin to the Shriners Hospital for Children in Shreveport, Louisiana for a surgical procedure designed to loosen his muscles. “Loosening him up would allow him to use his muscles more effectively and give him more independence,” Amanda predicted. The surgery and recovery would likely take 10-14 days, so the family is also exploring local options to help ease the logistics of being out of town for such a lengthy—and painful—procedure. “We are looking for a local surgeon with similar qualifications,” Amanda says. “It would be nice for him to be close to his support system. He’s a tough kid. I know he’ll do fine.”

While Gavin probably won’t be able to fully walk, the family hopes that the surgery will enable him to take a few steps between his wheelchair and the car. “His life will always be tied to the chair,” Amanda explains. “But the surgery will give him more mobility, flexibility and independence. Our goal for him is to be more independent, especially in school. Our doctors agree that it is a realistic goal for him.”

Words of Wisdom from a CP Mom “As parents, we can stifle kids and make it so that they feel uncomfortable around any type of disability,” Moffatt says. “It’s only natural to be curious about wheelchairs, walkers and people who walk or talk differently. It’s just human nature.”

She advises that, if you know your kids are going to encounter a special needs kid in school or in their daily routine, that you take the time to talk about it, read a book or watch a TV show about the particular disability and, most importantly, encourage them to not be scared to talk to the other child and simply say hello. “If you just happen to cross paths with a disabled kid, allow your kid to go over and approach the other child positively,” Moffatt explains. “Kids don’t have trouble adapting. They just take it all in stride. Allow them to learn.”

When asked about words of wisdom for other families who have a special needs child or may be expecting one, Moffatt’s positive spirit shows through. Disabilities, she says, really help put life into perspective. She says it helps her not to take things too seriously and not to focus on the unimportant things in life. “We are fortunate that Gavin has adapted as well as he has,” she reflects. “Just appreciate those you love and thank God for what you have.”

She says that, while you can’t expect the world to adapt for you, there are numerous avenues to learn about available resources and parenting groups to help make the journey easier. She admits that a temptation might exist to feel sorry for yourself or your child, but Amanda’s call to action is to “get motivated and make your child’s life different.”

In musing about her journey with CP, she says it helps to remind herself that some mothers only get to have their babies for a few hours and sometimes not at all. “It may not be the life we originally thought, but he still has a life. Your child’s life is what you make it.

Get in there and make the best of it.”

Brooke Barnett is the Assistant Editor of MetroFamily Magazine.

that can help them be an advocate for their child.”

Statewide resource database, including disability-related support groups.

OASIS Information & Referral Oklahoma City – Statewide 405-271-6302 or 800-426-2747, oasis.ouhsc.edu For families of children and adults with disabilities and special health care needs.

OASIS Parent Contact System offers Parent-to-Parent networking, linking parents of children with similar conditions for information and support.

July 2010

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33

The Alert Parent The Challenges of Sensory Processing Disorder

T

he other night, my 13 year old daughter Addy and I were watching a program on HGTV. Designers were helping families in the military. The mother of one family said to the interviewer: “We spend all our time in the den. We play games, watch TV and oh, we use it constantly for therapy sessions. I have two autistic children.”

Addy took note. She asked, “What’s autistic?”

I explained as best I could. “It’s a neurological disorder.” From my own experience of observing children diagnosed with autism, I added, “They can be overly sensitive to the physical world. They’re

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often agitated by anything they perceive through their senses—hearing, seeing, touching, smelling. Some autistic people might make habitual body motions, rocking, for example, or have attachment to certain objects. They prefer routine and get upset when the routine is disrupted.”

That very same week, Addy and I talked to a college student who helped an autistic child. These conversations reminded me of two articles I had written, one about Kim Hix and her 10-year-old son who was diagnosed with a neuropsychiatric disability, and the other about Chynna Laird and her daughter Jamie.

Living with SPD At the age of two, Jamie was diagnosed with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD).

Chynna said, “Honestly, I’d never heard of SPD. I’d heard of Autism, Asperger’s and ADHD but not this mysterious SPD.” Chynna described her daughter's symptoms.

“She rarely slept, fought us with every simple hygiene task tooth and nail, spent most of her awake time screaming and refused our touch.” Jamie’s mother said it was difficult to take her places, “Anywhere too busy, loud, smelly or bright made her break down or freeze.”

Chynna explained, “A lot of people call SPD an ‘invisible disorder’ because you can’t see it on a child’s face or body. The only glimmer that something is wrong is their reactions to people, situations, and events and that they often have to try just a bit harder to bounce a ball, play sports like stick hockey or ice skate or concentrate.”

Chynna Laird wrote I’m Not Weird, I Have SPD to help others who are experiencing similar challenges. That was also why Kim Hix wrote No One Is Perfect and You Are a Great Kid.

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Kim said something in her original article that I think bears repeating: “It is my hope that other children realize that, despite any disabilities they may have, that they too possess strengths and gifts. A disability does not make a person, it is simply a part of who he or she is.”

Allyn Evans (TheAlertParent.com) is a published author, professional speaker and consultant residing in Stillwater.

Statistics indicate many families are raising children with disabilities. According to the American Association of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (aacap.org), between 7 to 12 million children suffer from behavioral, mental or developmental disorders, and these numbers don’t reflect physical disabilities or other maladies. Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs), like Autism, Asperger’s and ADHD, affect an estimated two to six per 1,000 children.

Learn more about Kim Hix and Chynna Laird at these websites: youareagreatkid.com and lilywolfwords.ca.

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Although their stories aren’t quite the same, Chynna and Kim faced their challenges in a similar matter. Both were proactive, searching for answers that made sense. The women deliver a powerful message. Chynna told me: “Jamie is my sensational child—my miracle girl.”

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Besides the stories of Chynna and Kim, there are many resources available including associations and foundations that provide information and support to people and families affected by SPD. I found a long list simply by searching Google, including a reference to The National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities (nichcy.org).

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5/10/2010 9:37:08 AM

Parents of Special Needs Kids have Special Needs, Too “Fine” is a relative term. Any parent of a special needs child will tell you that.

Fine is a day that is fairly calm, without outbursts, temper tantrums, and sensory drama. A day when my well of patience and emotion is not depleted and I am not on the verge of tears.

I am the parent of a special needs child and there have been many times I’ve been questioned on my parenting decisions, by people who do or don’t know me or my child.

The responses have been non-verbal, as in the scoff or incredulous stare, and verbal, something along the lines of, “Is she okay?”

And I’ve replied with embarrassment, anger, and a desire to draw into myself and disappear, “She’s fine.”

She was. But I only knew that because I had spent countless dedicated hours, weeks, days, and years with my daughter and her occupational therapist (OT) as we continued to unlock the spectrum disorder that shut my daughter away from us and the rest of the world. The fact was that my daughter needed to throw herself on the hardest surface available, without warning, to receive sensory input for her disconnected vestibular system. The painful input made her “fine.” Until the next time.

What is Sensory Processing Disorder?

Proper sensory integration involves the neurological processing of information that is received by an individual’s body and the environment. The sensory processing disorder (SPD) is a spectrum disorder, meaning that it has a wide range and distribution of symptoms. SPD occurs when the brain cannot modulate the reciprocal process of intake/ organization/output flow of the sensory information that it is receiving and therefore, the body’s activity level.

Somehow she never bruised from hurling herself onto the pavement. But I did. I felt raw, scraping pain, a festering chasm of worry that didn’t begin to dissipate until Carol came into our lives.

Carol was my daughter’s OT and helped her reintegrate her sensory system over a period of six years. My daughter’s sensory processing system was completely out of sync. She exhibited difficulties with the tactile (touch), vestibular (movement), and proprioceptive (positioning) senses and responded with a combination of hyper- and hyposensitivity. These difficulties affected her speech, hearing and sight as well.

In her infinite wisdom, Carol sat me down one day and gave me a stern talking-to. She pointed out that as my daughter’s system became healthier, she became manipulative. And although that was a good sign, a normal milestone, it was time for me to expect more, to stop enabling my daughter’s behavior. Carol went on to say that, as the parent of a special needs child, I had special needs too. I needed to look out for and take care of myself.

Tears rolled down my face. Carol had hit a nerve. I thought back to how isolated I had felt at times. Parenting a special needs child consumes you if you let it—and I had. My emotional exhaustion was taking a toll on my health and my relationships with other family members.

I hold Carol’s sage advice within the invisible pocket of my heart and take heed when I need to. I search for compassion, not pity; understanding, and support, in the form of comfort and a listening ear.

Judy M. Miller is an adoptive parent educator and freelance journalist. Visit judymmiller.com to learn more.

36

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July 2010

Parents of special needs kids need to find a network of other moms. Finding a network of others where you can speak candidly will help to cope with the additional pressures.

Taking Care of Yourself •

Find other parents who have special needs kids.

Develop or join a network of special needs parents you can speak openly with. Ask your child’s occupational therapist or physician for ideas or contacts.

•

Ask for help and tell your partner and friends how you feel. You are the primary caregiver and parenting a special needs child is emotionally and physically taxing.

They probably don’t have any idea how you are feeling.

•

Cry when you need to. Life can be a roller coaster.

•

Give yourself personal time in the form of a walk, writing in a journal, or some other activity you enjoy. If nothing else, use the time-out system for yourself when you get overwhelmed.

Beat the heat this summer at the Oklahoma City Zoo. Through August 15 the Zoo opens at8:00AM to allow visitors an opportunity to visit the exhibits before the heat of the day kicks in.

Above, Heath W., age 2, of Shawnee on a 4th of July Parade float. Visit metrofamilymagazine. com/independence-day-fun for a full list of Independence Day events.

At left, a band performs at the 2009 Midsummer Nights’ Fair. The Firehouse Art Center will host the 34th Annual Midsummer Nights’ Fair on Friday, July 9 and Saturday, July 10, from 6-11pm at Norman's Lions Park (at Flood Ave & Symmes), just north of the Firehouse Art Center.

Weekly Events FREE Norman Sooner Mall Outreach Story Time is an interactive story time held outside Sears in Sooner Mall for ages 9 and under. Tuesdays, 10am.

FREE Art Adventures at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, Activities for children ages 3-5 with adult. Tuesdays, 10:30am.

Wild Tuesdays Storytime Safaris at the OKC Zoo every Tuesday in July for children ages 11 and under includes stories, a meet-and-greet with a Zoo keeper

or naturalist, a craft activity and a free juice drink.

9:30am and 10:30am.

Summer Kids Series 2010 a the Warren Theatre in Moore shows kid-friendly movies on Tuesdays and Thursdays through 8/5. Tickets $2, Season passes $15.

Movies begin at 10am. 735-9676, warrentheater.com.

Summer Movie Fun at the Harkins Theatres in Bricktown offer a different kid movie for $5 each week through August 6. Movies begin at 9:45am.

Titles and schedule available at harkinstheatres.com/ summermoviefun.aspx.

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.

Way Back Wednesdays at the OKC Zoo offers $1 admission each Wednesday in July, plus $1 ride and concession specials.

FREE Wednesday Night at the Movies at the Downtown Library, 6-8pm. For all ages. Held every Wednesday of the month. 231-8650.

July 2010

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

37

Quick Reference

FREE Thursday Noon Tunes at the Downtown Library, 11:30am-1pm. 231-8650, mls.lib.ok.us.

American Banjo Museum 9 E Sheridan Ave, OKC 604-2793, banjomuseum.org

FREE Summer Movie Series at the Downtown Library screens kid-friendly movies each Thursday in July, 1-3pm. 231-8650, mls.lib.ok.us.

City Arts Center Fair Park, 3000 Pershing Blvd, OKC 951-0000, cityartscenter.org

The UCO Jazz Lab features performances each Friday and Saturday at 8pm. $7 adults, $5 age 12 and under. 359-7989, UCOJazzLab.com.

Fine Arts Institute of Edmond 27 E Edwards, Edmond 340-4481, edmondfinearts.com

FREE Children’s Storytime at Full Circle Bookstore (1900 NW Expressway) every Saturday, 10:15am.

842-2900, FullCircleBooks.com.

Altered Books at [Artspace] at Untitled features book art by artists from across North America and a selection of vintage photographs from the Photographic Society of America collection. 815-9995, artspaceatuntitled.org.

Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art 555 Elm Ave, Norman 325-3272, ou.edu/fjjma

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

Through July 10

FREE Make & Take crafts at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May, OKC), Saturdays, 11am-3pm. Ages 3 and up. 858-8778, LakeshoreLearning.com.

The Taming of the Shrew presented by Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park is a boisterous comedy about marriage, money, power and the sexes. Performances Thursday-Saturday, 8pm in Bicentennial Park in downtown OKC. $10 adults, $8 students. 235-3700, oklahomashakespeare.com.

Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum 13th & Shartel, OKC 235-4458, oklahomaheritage.com Little River Zoo Hwy 9, Norman 366-7229, littleriverzoo.com Myriad Botanical Gardens Closed for renovations; opening in 2011.

297-3995, myriadgardens.com National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC 478-2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org Oklahoma Aquarium 300 Aquarium Dr, Jenks 918-296-FISH, okaquarium.org OKC Museum of Art 415 Couch Dr, OKC 236-3100, okcmoa.org OKC National Memorial 620 N Harvey, OKC 235-3313, oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org OKC Zoo 2101 NE 50th St, OKC 424-3344, okczoo.com Oklahoma Children’s Theatre 2501 N Blackwelder, OKC 606-7003, oklahomachildrenstheatre.org Oklahoma History Center 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr., 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 602-6664, sciencemuseumok.org

Do you have an event for our calendar?

Send an email to

Calendar@MetroFamilyMagazine.com 38

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Saturday Classic Cartoon Cruises include a funfilled morning of river cruising while being entertained with classic cartoons, departing from Regatta Park, Meridian Landing and Exchange Landing every Saturday until noon. 702-7755, okrivercruises.com.

History Comes Alive Cruises portray Oklahoma history from the perspective of a live re-enactor from the Oklahoma History Center. Round trip fare is $12 adults, $8 ages 6-12, FREE under age 6. Departures from Regatta Park each Saturday at noon, Exchange Landing at 12:45pm. 702-7755, okrivercruises.com.

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

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.

the third Saturday, 11 am-noon. Arts & crafts for children 18 mos-5 years. $5 per child. Reservations required, 307-8454. gymboreeclasses.com.

Ongoing Events Jul 9-Oct 9

Through July 11 The Dorothy and Herbert Vogel Collection: 50 Works for 50 States on exhibit at the OKC Museum of Art. Bass Pro Shops Free Family Summer Camp Workshops are offered Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays (noon-4pm). Families learn the basics of hiking, camping, fishing, bird watching, archery, animal identification and safety travel trips. Kids earn a collectable pin for every workshop completed. 218-5200, basspro.com.

Jul 12-Aug 13

Sunday Nature Hikes at Martin Park Nature Center.

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

Reservations and $2 fee required. 755-0676.

Capture the Wild Annual Photography Contest hosted by the Oklahoma Zoological Society ZooFriends. Submit your photographs of animals, landscapes, reptiles, birds and more from the OKC Zoo by 8/13. Youth and adult divisions available.

405-427-2461, zoofriends.org.

Monthly

Jul 15-Aug 7

FREE Monthly Mini Model Build at Penn Square Mall’s Lego Store. Build a new model every month.

Held the first Tuesday of the month, 5pm. Quantities are limited. For ages 6-14. 840-9993, Stores.Lego.com.

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

FREE LIVE on the Plaza held in the Plaza District the second Friday of each month, featuring an artwalk, local artists, live music and shopping. NW 16th St between Classen and Penn. urbanpioneers.net.

Train Rides at the Oklahoma Railway Museum leave the Oakwood Depot at 10am, 11am, Noon, 1:30pm and 2:30pm on the first and third Saturday of the month. $10 age 15 and up, $5 age 3-14, FREE under 3.

424-8222, oklahomarailwaymuseum.org.

Family Arts Studio at Gymboree of Norman is held July 2010

The Comedy of Errors presented by Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park explores the themes of mistaken identities, coincidence and the importance of family. Performances Thursday-Saturday, 8pm in Bicentennial Park in downtown OKC. $10 adults, $8 students. 235-3700, oklahomashakespeare.com.

Jul 15-Dec 12 Luis Jiménez: The Exhibition at the OKC Museum of Art presents six expressive lithographs by the artist revealing his interests in popular culture, social commentary, and his Mexican-American heritage.

Jul 23-Jan 10, 2011 Flying High and Crash Landing: Bull Wrecks in Rodeo at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage

July S M T W T F S Museum features photography focusing on wild bull rides and wrecks.

Through July 27 Behind the Scenes: An Enriching Experience allows kids ages 14 and older to be an animal keeper for a day, discover first-hand how the Zoo cares for its animal collection and work directly with Zoo keepers.

The program runs every Tuesday in July from 8:15am3:30pm. $100 for Zoo Friends, $120 nonmembers.

Pregistration required.

Through July 28 Okietales at the Oklahoma History Center is a reading and storytelling time for ages 4-9, exploring topics from the Wild West, cowboys, land runs and pioneer life. $2 per child includes museum admission, preregistration required. Each Wednesday, 10-11am.

522-0785, okhistory.org.

Jul 29-Aug 1

Through August 21 The Film Costumes of Edith Head at City Arts Center features more than 40 watercolor costume sketches

by Head and her large staff of artists, along with reproductions of designed costumes, photographs of the designer, assorted memorabilia, a compilation of film exerts and a replica of Edith Head's work station.

Mother's Hats: The Doris Elliott Collection at City Arts Center includes 17 fashionable hats that were owned by Rand Elliott's mother during the heyday of Downtown OKC from post-World War II into the 1960s.

27 4 11 18 25 1

28 5 12 19 26 2

29 6 13 20 27 3

30 1 2 3 7 8 9 10 14 15 16 17 21 22 23 24 28 29 30 31 4 5 6 7

Metropolitan Library System mls.lib.ok.us Belle Isle, 5501 N Villa, 843-9601 Bethany, 3510 N Mueller, 789-8363

Through August 31 The Spectacular Colored Pencil Art Exhibition at Science Museum Oklahoma features artwork by the OKC Colored Pencil Society of America.

Capitol Hill, 334 SW 26th, 634-6308 Choctaw, 2525 Muzzy, 390-8418 Del City, 4509 SE 15th, 672-1377

Thoroughly Modern Millie at Norman's Sooner Theatre is the Tony award winning musical about a small town girl who comes to New York City to marry for money instead of love in the 1920s. Tickets $10 adults, $5 kids 12 years & under. Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday-Saturday, 2pm and 7:30 pm; Sunday, 2 pm. 3219600, soonertheatre.org.

Through September 6 Prix de West at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is an invitational art exhibit of over 300 Western paintings and sculpture by the finest contemporary Western artists in the nation.

Edmond, 10 S Boulevard, 341-9282

Through July 30

Blue Star Museums is a partnership among Blue Star Families, the National Endowment for the Arts, and more than 700 museums in all 50 states to offer free admission to active duty military personnel and their families. Complete list of participating museums online. arts.gov/bluestarmuseums. See page 12 for details.

Southern Oaks, 6900 S Walker, 631-4468

FREE Firehouse Art Center Faculty Show features the artwork of the Center's faculty in mediums including ceramics, paining, jewelry and more. An opening reception will be held on 7/16, 7-9pm.

329-4523, normanfirehouse.com.

Through August 1 Reminders and Remainders in the State Capitol's East Gallery features colorful acrylic paintings by OKC artist Jennifer Barron portraying everyday objects from a new vantage point. Monday-Friday 8am-6pm, Weekends 9am-4pm. 521-2931, arts.ok.gov.

Through September 12

Downtown, 300 Park Ave, 231-8650 Midwest City, 8143 E Reno, 732-4828 Ralph Ellison, 2000 NE 23rd, 424-1437 The Village, 10307 N Penn, 755-0710 Warr Acres, 5901 NW 63rd, 721-2616 Harrah, 1930 N Church Ave, 454-2001 Jones, 111 E Main, 399-5471

Wanderlust: Travel and American Photography exhibit at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art examines the role American highways have played in the migratory desires of the American people.

Luther, 310 NE 3rd, 277-9967

Chocolate, a special exhibition developed by The Field Museum in Chicago on display at Norman’s Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History.

Pioneer Library System

Nicoma Park, 2240 Overholser, 769-9452 Wright Library, 2101 Exchange, 235-5035

pls.lib.ok.us

Through August 12

Through September 30

Sketch to Screen Film Festival at the OKC Museum of Art will present more than a dozen iconic films that exemplify the art of Hollywood costume design through the decades. Titles available online. $8 adults, $6 students / seniors, $5 members. Thursdays, 7:30pm.

Bubbles & Beauty: Housewives in History at the Edmond Historical Society & Museum examines the changes to the role of the housewife from an 1800s homesteader to today's modern, multi-tasking superwomen. Exhibit features vintage advertising and a variety of artifacts connected to homemakers.

340-0078, edmondhistory.org.

McLoud, 133 N Main, 964-2960

FREE Admission to the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art in Shawnee allows visitors to enjoy a uniquely broad art collection spanning 8,000 years of human history. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm and Sunday 1-4pm. 878-5300, mgmoa.org.

Norman, 225 N Webster, 701-2600

Through August 15 Morning Zoo Rise at the OKC Zoo offers early admission beginning at 8am daily to beat the summer heat.

Sketch to Screen: The Art of Hollywood Costume Design exhibit at the OKC Museum of Art explores the vital artistic contribution of costume design throughout the history of the American motion picture industry.

Weapons and Warriors: The Art of Armaments at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art in Shawnee includes arms and armor from several different cultures and civilizations. 878-5300, mgmoa.org.

July 2010

Blanchard, 300 N Main, 485-2275 Moore, 225 S Howard, 793-5100 Newcastle, 705 NW Tenth, 387-5076 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

39

Through October

Liberty Fest in Edmond features 11 family-oriented events, including a concert, road rally, kite fest, rodeo, car show, food fest, pageant, parade and fireworks.

Named by CNN and USA Today as one of the top 10 July 4th festivals in the US. 340-2527, libertyfest.org.

Another Hot Oklahoma Night Exhibit, featuring highlights of the state's rock and roll history, is on display at the Oklahoma History Center.

Through November 14 Alfred Ossorio: Gifts from the Ossorio Foundation exhibit at the OKC Museum of Art features 11 works by the artist from 1949-1984.

Operation Oklahoma at Reaves Park in Norman hosts the Dignity Memorial Vietnam Wall, a ¾ scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC. Available for public viewing 24 hours a day. 321-1600, normanok.gov.

Through November

2 • Friday

Tierra de mi Familia exhibit at the Oklahoma History Center explores the Latino experience in Oklahoma.

Dive-In Movies at White Water Bay shows a favorite movie pool side. FREE with paid park admission. Also showing 7/9, 16, 23, 30.

Through 2011 The Uncanny Adventures of Okie Cartoonists at the Oklahoma History Center explores how Oklahomans have played a major role in the evolution of comic books, comic strips, and editorial cartoons by creating some of the most recognizable characters in American popular culture.

JULy 1 • Thursday FREE Kids Dance Party at the Moore Public Library is an energetic workout program for kids ages 8 and up. 4pm.

Shawnee's Red White & Blue Celebration at the Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center includes live music, lots of family fun and fireworks at 10pm. 878-1760, shawneeok.org.

3 • Saturday

OKC RedHawks vs. Nashville Sounds at the AT&T Bricktown Ballpark. Tickets begin at $10. 7:05pm. 2181000, oklahomaredhawks.com. Other home games this month: 7/5-7, 15-18, 27-31.

Fish and Fireworks at the Oklahoma Aquarium offers visitors a chance to see fish by day and fireworks by night, with an ideal place to view the fireworks at the RiverWalk Crossing.

5 • Monday FREE Admission to the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on the first Monday of each month. 10am-5pm.

Gospel Concert at Inspiration Hill featuring Pemberton & Langley and David Allen. 880669 S. 3330 Road in Wellston. 7pm. 356-4051.

FREE Mad Science at the Norman Public Library shares the science of water with lively animation and awe-inspiring gear. Tickets required, available at no cost at the children's desk. 2pm and 7pm. Also held 7/6 at the Purcell Library (10:30am) & Moore Public Library (2pm and 7pm.)

3-4

1-4

FREE Art In the Park: A Celebration In the Heartland at Buck Thomas park in Moore features live music, carnival rides, food, inflatables, and children's tent. Car show Saturday, fireworks display Sunday. Saturday 10am–10pm; Sunday noon–10pm. cityofmoore.com.

FREE Freedom Fest at Yukon City Park and Chisholm

weekly E-Updates keep you in-the-know MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ subscribe-to-e-update

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

Independence Day celebrations abound in Oklahoma. See a full list at metrofamilymagazine. com/independence-day-fun. Have fun and be safe!

FREE Teen Zumba at the Moore Public Library has teens working out with Latin rhythms and easy-tofollow moves. 2-3pm.

Museums on Us: Bank of America Free Weekend at the OKC Museum of Art and the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum provides FREE admission for Bank of America credit/debit card holders.

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4 • Sunday

FREE Red, White and Blue Crafts at the Norman Public Library lets kids ages 10 and under make simple crafts celebrating Independence Day. 1-3pm.

FREE Skateboarding at the Bethany Public Library teaches kids about extreme sports, includes a live demo by local skaters. 7-9pm. Also held 7/8 at Midwest City Library, 7/12 at Edmond Library.

OKC Summer Classic Dog Show at the Cox Convention Center. Tickets $7 adults, $2 children 12 and under. Discount coupons available at metro area Little Caesars Pizza locations. 8am-7pm daily. okcdogshows.com

Trail Park features food, music, fun, a tribute to veterans and fireworks. 350-8937, cityokyukon.gov.

July 2010

6 • Tuesday FREE Water World at the Norman Public Library features a presentation from Science Museum Oklahoma teaching grades 7-12 about water. Tickets required, available at no cost at the children's desk 2-4pm. Also at the Moore Library 7/12, 2pm.

Sugar Free Allstars band plays at the Noble Public Library, bringing fun and funky music for all ages.

10am. Also at Shawnee Public Library, 2pm.

6-10 Chitty Chitty Bang Bang presented by Lyric Theatre at the Civic Center Music Hall is the story of an out-ofthe-ordinary car that flies through the air and sails the seas. Tickets $29 & up. Tuesday-Friday 8pm, Saturday 2pm & 8pm 524-9312, lyrictheatreokc.com.

7 • Wednesday FREE Boys’ Night Out at the Moore Public Library allows men and boys of all ages to meet firefighters and police officers, explore neat gadgets in fire trucks and police cars, play Wii sports and enjoy snacks.

6:30-8pm.

FREE Look Out I'm Three at Southern Oaks Library teaches parents and caregivers more about terrific

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three year olds, focusing on the developmental milestones of the third year. Preregister, 425-4412.

6-7:30pm.

Cox Convention Center. Tickets begin at $10. 7:05pm.

1-800-745-3000, coxconventioncenter.com.

10-18

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Sitting Volleyball World Championships at the University of Central Oklahoma brings more than 40 teams and approximately 600 athletes from around the world to compete. Day passes $10 adults, $5 children.

Opening ceremony 7/10 (7-9pm, $10), Closing celebration at Frontier City 7/18 ($15). 974-3160, 2010worlds.com.

Teen Art Clinic at Shawnee's Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art helps teens ages 13-18 to create mixedmedia art, while developing painting, sculpture, and assemblage skills. Preregister, $45 members, $55 non-members. 2-4 pm. 878-5300, mgmoa.org.

8 • Thursday

11 • Sunday

FREE An Evening with Teddy Roosevelt at the Oklahoma History Center features a "visit" from the President sharing tales of his family's experiences at the White House, his adventures as a rancher and cowboy and more. 11:30am and 7pm.

FREE Sunday Twilight Concert Series at Stage Center in downtown OKC features the acoustic rock music of Jamie Bramble. 7pm. 270-4848, artscouncilokc.com.

FREE Watermelon Carving at the Moore Public Library has teens creating art out of watermelons.

2-3pm.

FREE Summer Breeze Concert Series in Norman features the music of the John McEuen at the Andrews Park Ampitheatre. Sunday, 7:30pm. 307-9320, thepas. org.

FREE Basic Yoga for Teens teaches basic Hatha Yoga postures for teens in grades 6-12. Held at Norman Public Library. 6-7pm.

12 • Monday

FREE Artist Lecture by New York based artist Doug Beube at [Artspace] at Untitled about his work on display in the exhibition Altered Books. 6pm. 815-9995, artspaceatuntitled.org.

9 • Friday FREE Norman’s 2nd Friday Circuit of Art is a monthly celebration of the arts connecting the downtown arts district with galleries, performance halls, and Campus Corner. Trolley service between venues available at minimal cost. 6-10pm. 360-1162, 2ndfridaynorman.com.

FREE Professor B. Looney at the Norman Public Library gives children surprises with balloons. Tickets required, available at children's desk. 2pm.

13 • Tuesday

Primary Partners at Shawnee's Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art allows children ages 3-6 to create unique artworks with a caregiver. Preregister, $12 members, $18 nonmembers. 10:30-11:30am. 878-5300, mgmoa.org. Also held 7/17.

Science Stories at Science Museum Oklahoma features the silliest science stories around. 10:30am and 2:30pm. FREE with paid museum admission.

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16 • Friday Movie Night at the Museum at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History screens How to Train Your Dragon in the museum’s Great Hall.

Galleries open 5:30-7pm, film at 7pm. $5 adults, $3 ages 6-17, children 5 and under FREE. Members receive $1 discount.

Bright Night at the Movies at Science Museum Oklahoma features the fun of film and the science of special effects and overnight stay in the museum's exhibit halls and breakfast the next morning. One adult required per every six children. $35 members, $45 nonmembers. $10 discount for state employees and military personnel. 6pm-8:30am Saturday.

FREE Game On for Teens at the Moore Public Library allows teens ages 12-18 to practice Rock Band, Guitar Hero, Wii, and other video games. 11am-3pm.

10 • Saturday

OKC Yard Dawgz vs. Iowa Barnstormers at the

FREE Lava Lamps at the Moore Public Library lets teens create a cool lava lamp to take home. Materials provided. 2pm.

Summer Youth Sewing Camp at the OSU-OKC Cooperative Extension Center teaches youth of any skill level to make wearable clothing, decorative items and accessories. Preregister, $50, plus supplies. 9amNoon. 713-1125. Also held 7/26-30.

33rd Annual Midsummer Nights Fair at Lions Park in Norman is a celebration of the visual arts with over 45 art booths, kids art wall, live music, demonstrations, and food. 6-11pm. 329-4253, normanfirehouse.com.

4th Annual Wizard Rock Concert at the Del City Library features bands singing about the world of Harry Potter. 7-9:30pm.

FREE Bubbles & Beauty: Housewives in History Exhibit Reception at the Edmond Historical Society & Museum features “real” housewives through the decades, food, drink, and housewife etiquette along with the exhibit. 5-7pm. 340-0078, edmondhistory.org.

17 • Saturday

International Finals Youth Rodeo at the Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center in Shawnee features ten events, eleven performances and youth contestants from across the US competing in barrel racing, pole bending, breakaway roping and bareback riding. 2757020, shawneeexpo.org.

Greater Oklahoma Bluegrass Music Society Bluegrass Concert at the Oklahoma Country Western Museum & Hall of Fame (3925 SE 29th, Del City) $6, children under 12 FREE. 6:30-9:30pm. 677-7515, gobms.org.

15 • Thursday

12-16

12-17

9-10

books and use e-book readers. 6:30pm.

FREE Write! Writing Workshop with Mel Odom at the Norman Public Library gives writing and blogging tips to teens in grades 7-12. 2-4pm. Also held at Moore Library 7/19, 2pm.

Evening with a Curator at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History features Curator of Ichthyology Edith Marsh-Matthews. 7pm.

14 • Wednesday FREE Dive into E-Books at the Moore Public Library teaches participants how to download free electronic

July 2010

FREE Sales Tax Appreciation Day at the OKC Zoo offers free admission from 8am-8pm.

FREE Ramona and Beezus Movie Celebration at local Borders stores includes games, giveaways, and more. 2pm. borders.com.

17-18 Bricktown Art Festival is an arts, crafts and gift festival located between the AT&T Bricktown Ballpark and the Bricktown Canal Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday, 11am-5pm. 596-1687, montagefestivals.com.

18 • Sunday FREE Sunday Twilight Concert Series at Stage Center in downtown OKC features the rock music of Hoppy Niles & One-Armed Bandit. 7pm. 270-4848, artscouncilokc.com.

FREE Summer Breeze Concert Series features the music of Big Smith at Norman’s Andrews Park Ampitheatre. Sunday, 7:30pm. 307-9320, thepas.org.

19-25 Eskimo Joe’s 35th Anniversary Celebration in Stillwater is a week filled with great food and drink specials, costume contests, special events, concerts, and family fun. 377-0799. eskimojoes.com.

20 • Tuesday

23 • Friday

FREE Cello Tunes and Tales at the Moore Public Library features dynamic stories with fascinating and unique music from a professional, award winning cellist Erin Yeaman. 10am.

FREE Art After Hours at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art discusses Leon Polk Smith: Reinventing Geometric Abstraction. 6pm.

FREE Smoothie Blend-a-Thon at the Norman Public Library has teens in grades 6-12 experimenting to make the ultimate smoothie. Preregister. 2-4pm.

20-24 42nd Street presented by Lyric Theatre at the Civic Center Music Hall is one of the greatest dance musicals of all time. Tickets begin at $29. TuesdayFriday 8pm, Saturday 2pm & 8pm 524-9312, lyrictheatreokc.com.

Program is proven to:

24 • Saturday Celebrating the National Day of the American Cowboy at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum includes special activities and the announcement of the 2011 Miss Rodeo Oklahoma.

10am-5pm.

Children's Miracle Network's Dancing For A Miracle Gala at the Skirvin Hotel features local celebrities competing for the 2010 Dancing for Kids Star award. $125 /person, 6 pm. 271-2212, okchf.org.

21 • Wednesday

25 • Sunday

FREE Touched by Greatness at the Moore Public Library features local authors Wayne and Carolee Maxwell discussing their recently published book on the life of Charles Watson McGilberry. 6:30pm.

FREE Sunday Twilight Concert Series at Stage Center in downtown OKC features the jazz fusion music of Campari featuring Lacy Saunders. 7pm.

270-4848, artscouncilokc.com

City Arts Center's Film Night Series screens "Valentino, The Last Emperor." $10 includes wine, popcorn and a panel discussion after the movie.

5:30pm.

22 • Thursday

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FREE Children's Metro Music Fest at the Downtown Library presents Emmy Award winning Farmer Jason’s country-punk music. 2-3pm.

26 • Monday

FREE The Incredible Journey of Water at the Moore Public Library takes children ages 5-12 on a symbolic trip of discovery to learn about the life of a water droplet and make a water-cycle bracelet. 10am.

2010 Space Force Camp presented by the International Aerospace Academy offers hands-on aerospace activities for elementary school kids (Grade 2 and up). $225. 301-4340, internationalaerospaceacademy.com.

FREE Human Battleship at the Moore Public Library allows teens to be ships in an interactive game of Battleship. Preregister. 2-3pm.

FREE Sand Painting at the Moore Public Library has teens ages 12-18 creating beautiful art using colorful sand and paper. Materials provided. 2pm.

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FREE Doc Crawford’s Water Experiments at the Norman Public Library is an educational magic show about water for children of all ages. Tickets required, available at children’s desk. 7pm.

27 • Tuesday FREE Dungeons & Dragons Day at the Norman Public Library provides role-playing games and a meal for teens in grades 6-12. Preregister. 2-8pm.

29 • Thursday Slime Day at Science Museum Oklahoma allows kids to make their own slime 10am- 2pm. FREE with paid museum admission.

FREE Teen Snow Globes at the Moore Public Library provides materials for teens to make snow globes.

Preregister. 2-3pm.

FREE Doc Crawford Water Experiments at the Downtown Library educational magic show about water for children of all ages. 1-2pm.

30 • Friday FREE Japanese Swords: Soul of the Samauri lecture in conjunction with the Weapons and Warriors: The Art of Armaments exhibit at Shawnee's MabeeGerrer Museum of Art. 878-5300, mgmoa.org.

OKC Yard Dawgz vs. Tulsa Talons at the Cox Convention Center. Tickets begin at $10. 7:05pm.

1-800-745-3000, coxconventioncenter.com.

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August 2 FREE Admission to the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on the first Monday of each month. 10am-5pm.

August 3-7 Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story presented by Lyric Theatre at the Civic Center Music Hall is one of the greatest dance musicals of all time. Tickets $29 & up.

Tuesday-Friday 8pm, Saturday 2pm & 8pm. 524-9312, lyrictheatreokc.com.

August 6 Bright Night of CSI: Museum Style at Science Museum Oklahoma will have participants combing for clues, tracking down evidence and uncovering the intriguing science behind crime scene investigations, includes overnight stay in the museum's exhibit halls and breakfast the next morning. One adult required per every six children. $35 members, $45 nonmembers. $10 discount for state employees and military personnel. 6pm-8:30am Saturday.

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FREE Midsummer Fairy Ball in the Paseo Arts District invites children to dress as fairies and other favorite magical creatures and enjoy activities and live entertainment. 2920 Paseo. 7:30-9:30pm. 525-2688, thepaseo.com.

FREE Game On! All Grown Up at the Moore Public Library features video games for adults ages 21 and up, including Texas Hold’em, Electronic Poker, Rock Band, and Wii 11am-3pm.

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Greater Oklahoma Bluegrass Music Society 5th Saturday Gospel Concert at the Oklahoma Country Western Museum & Hall of Fame (3925 SE 29th, Del City) $6, children under 12 FREE. 6:30-9:30pm.

677-7515, gobms.org.

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Hey, Metro Families!

We want to see your photos.

Submit shots of your family out exploring Oklahoma and we’ll put them in our pages.

nd at Kitefest Sarah, age 5, of Edmo Mitch Park

Dade, age 3, Crystal, age 5, DJ, age 4, and works Follies Fire the at e plac first after winning aula Euf in ade Golf Car t Par

Madeline, age 5, and Susanna, age 3, of Mustang

Lauren, age 5, of Edmo nd at the Liberty Fest Parade

Lisa P. and Kara P., age 13 of Edmond at the Liberty Fest Parade

Hey, Metro Families!

We want you to share your photos. Submit snapshots of your family enjoying end of summer activities and showing back to school memories. We'll put them all online and select a few to print in our August issue.

Photo submission guidelines and a form to submit your photos may be found at metrofamilymagazine. com/mfm-photo galleries.

Tips for submitting photos: • High-resolution images (at least 400kb in size, not to exceed 5mb) are necessary for use in print.

• Please include the name of each person in the photo, your hometown and the time and location for the photo.

• Submitted photos will become property of MetroFamily and may be used in future publications or on metrofamilymagazine.com.

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Gracie, age 3, of Oklahoma City celebrating at her grandmother's house

Heath W., age 2, of Shawnee on a 4th of July Parade float July 2010

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