PRICELE$$
June 2013
Inspiring Parents, Motivating Kids, Celebrating Life
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Family Album
Brayden Del Rio, 2 years old - Son of Wanda and Valentin
Attention Wise County: Send us your pictures! Do you have a digital camera? Do you take pictures of your kids that are just too cute to keep to yourself? Why not share them with our many readers?
It’s easy...
just email them to pics@wisefamilymagazine.com and please make sure that you send us your best quality pictures in a high resolution format.
SCHOOL YEARBOOK STAFF - RECITALS CHEERLEADING - SPORTS - LIVESTOCK SHOWS - COMMUNITY EVENTS When you take pictures of what is special and important to you we love to see them all!
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Health Wise
Dining outdoors?
Tips for keeping food safe and delicious (BPT) - Al fresco dining is one of the great pleasures of warm weather. Whether you’re hosting a neighborhood barbecue or an intimate dinner party on your deck, outdoor dining is a great way to savor good food, company and the great outdoors. To ensure your meals are safe and enjoyable, it’s important to know how to prepare, transport and store food for outdoor eating. The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) offers some advice for safely handling food when you’re dining outdoors this summer: Purchasing Warm weather brings a bounty of fresh produce, and a trip to the local farmers market can make a nice addition to your outdoor meal. Food safety starts in the field. It’s important to get to know the growers selling produce at your local farm stand, and ask about their farming practices. How do they keep their products free from bacterial pathogens and other contaminants? Farmers may also have great tips for storing produce, testing for ripeness and even ways to prepare the fruits and veggies they sell. IFT spokesperson and food safety expert, Don Schaffner, PhD, says that when you’re purchasing produce, make sure it’s free of mold, bruises or blemishes where bacterial pathogens can grow. Many grocery stores offer freshly cut, packaged produce for customers seeking nutritious convenience foods. Freshly cut vegetables and fruit need proper temperature control to prevent the growth of bacteria that cause foodborne illness. Prepping Before preparing food, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Make sure all prep utensils such as cutting boards, dishes and countertops are clean before preparing each food item. Dirt, dust and pathogenic microbes can linger on produce. It’s important to wash fresh produce before consuming it. The only exception is are pre-bagged salads and leafy greens, as experts advise that additional washing of ready-to-eat green salads is not likely to enhance safety. Thoroughly washing in cold water will suffice for most fruits and vegetables, but some types of produce require special handling. Wash spinach or salad greens in a bowl of water and rinse them gently to remove dirt and other contaminants. Give extra attention to fruits with stems, such as apples, pears and peaches. You may be tempted to forego washing fruit with a rind, since you won’t be eating the rind. But, it’s still important to wash oranges, avocados, melons, cantaloupe, etc. - pathogens can linger in unwashed crevices and transfer to your hands or the knife you use to cut the fruit. In addition, wash items you’ll peel - such as carrots and cucumbers - for the same reason. Grilling If you’ll be grilling at home, remember to always marinate
meat in the refrigerator, never on the kitchen counter or outdoors. Discard any extra marinade that’s touched raw meat. Grill food thoroughly, using a thermometer to ensure the proper internal temperature: 145 F for steaks and fish, 160 F for pork, hot dogs and hamburgers, and 165 F for poultry. Keep finished meats hot until you serve by moving them to the side of the grill rack, away from the coals or highest flame on your gas grill. Avoid cross contamination by using separate serving plates and utensils for different meats and vegetables. If you’ll be grilling away from home - in a park, tailgating at a sporting event or on a camping trip - consider purchasing pre-formed patties for burgers and pre-cut poultry. This minimizes the amount of handling meat requires and can help minimize the risk of bacteria and cross contamination. Transporting A picnic in the park can be great fun for everyone, but it’s important to assure your food arrives safely along with your family and guests. Follow smart food packing guidelines. Keep meats, including lunch meats and raw meats, cheeses and condiments cold in insulated, soft-sided bags or coolers with freezer gel packs. Food needs to be stored at 40 F or colder to reduce the risk of pathogen growth, so limit the number of times you open the cooler. Never allow food to sit for more than two hours at temperatures below 90 F, and no more than an hour when temperatures exceed 90 F. Throw away food that’s been sitting out too long. Securely package raw meat, seafood and poultry to ensure the juices don’t contaminate other foods. Pack only the amount of perishable food that you think will be eaten. Beverages and perishable foods should travel in separate containers and coolers, especially if you’ll be transporting raw meat. When it’s time to go home, don’t reuse packaging material that has touched raw meats or meat juices. Make sure perishable leftovers stay cold on the trip home. Avoid taking home uncooked leftovers. ■ 940.210.1769 • WISE
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Family Album
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Our venture crew, VC121, went climbing at Summit Rock Gym with Troop 194 from Bridgeport and 1 boy from Troop 121. One group photo of everyone in the crew, and troop boys. Alexis, Brittney and Joshua Garrett, Kasey, a newcomer, Dakota Sellers, a visitor, Jennifer Prentice and Jonathan Wood, our advisors, Brett Daughtery, Brenna Prentice, Reece Cannon, from Troop 121, and the very helpful “Biggs” that instructed the boys, and girls, the basics and safety of Rock Climbing.
Family Album
Lukas John Noll Dougherty Born: April 26, 2013 to John and Sandy Dougherty
My father used to play with my brother and me in the yard. Mother would come out and say, “You’re tearing up the grass.” “We’re not raising grass,” Dad would reply. “We’re raising boys.” - Harmon Killebrew
Easter egg hunt at Governor’s Ridge.
Readers…
Send your stories or photos of friends, family and events to pics@wisefamilymagazine.com! 940.210.1769 • WISE
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On the Cover: May, 2013 In our 8th year of ‘Making A Difference’ P.O. Box 521 • Boyd, Texas 76023
Lunch time with Justin, Kaelynne, & Aiden Dougherty at their favorite Decatur hang-out.
940-210-1769
Founder: Kim Tinkham 1957 - 2010
In This Issue: Publisher & Parent Company . . . . . . . . . . . TinkInkPublications.com Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Scott@tinkinkpublications.com Graphic Artist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sara Sparrowgrove Email . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . sara@tinkinkpublications.com Distribution Guys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Scott and Don Tinkham Office Dogs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Max and Buddy Our Reason For Doing This . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . YOU! Advertising Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ads@wisefamilymagazine.com To submit: Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . info@wisefamilymagazine.com Photographs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pics@wisefamilymagazine.com Wise Family Magazine is published monthly by Tink Ink LLC and distributed free of charge through local merchants. Wise Family Magazine reserves the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. Opinions expressed by the contributors are not necessarily the opinions of the publication. Tink Ink LLC assumes no liability or responsibility for any claims made by advertisers in the magazine. Reproduction in whole or part without express written consent of the Publisher is prohibited.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS:
Wise County Sheriff . . . . . . . . . . . . . 940 627 5971 Severe Weather Updates . . . . . . . www.weather.com Emergency Preparedness Info . . . . www.redcross.org www.MissingKids.com . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-843-5678 National Child Abuse Hotline . . . . . . 1-800-422-4453 National Poison Control Center . . . . . 1-800-222-1222 National Substance Abuse Hotline . . . 1-800-662-4357 National Runaway Hotline . . . . . . . . 1-800-786-2929
Readers...
Health Wise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Dave Says . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9 Womens Occupational Workshop . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Wise County Wonderings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 6 Rules For Teen Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Reduce Brain Drain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 The Making Of A Black Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Smart Strategies For Sporty Kids . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Fun & Games . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Wise County Animal Shelter . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-23
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“Do Right and Fear No Man” Wise Family Magazine believes that texting and non-hands free cell use are dangerous to everyone involved. Use your head not your hands!
We need your help! Do you have an event or organization you would like to share with the county? Please take some time out of your busy day and drop us a line. What do you want to get out of your Wise Family Magazine? Please send comments, questions and feedback to sara @tinkinkpublications.com or by snail mail to Tink Ink Publications, PO Box 521, Boyd, Texas 76023. The more pictures and stories you send, the better YOUR magazine will be! 6
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Alvord Public Library 940-427-2842 • W,TH, F . . . . . . . . . 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. • SA . . . . . . . . . . . 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon Boyd Public Library 940-433-5580 • M, W, F . . . . . . . . 10:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m. • TU . . . . . . . . . . . 10:00 a.m. -7:00 p.m. • TH . . . . . . . . . . . 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
@ Your Library
Area Libraries
Family Album
Bridgeport Public Library 940-683-3450 • M,W,F . . . . . . . . . 10:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m. • T,TH . . . . . . . . . . 10:00 a.m - 7:00 p.m. • SA . . . . . . . . . . . . 10:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m. Chico Public Library 940-644-2330 • M,F . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. • T,W,TH . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. • SA . . . . . . . . . . . 9:00 a.m.-12:00 noon Decatur Public Library 940-627-5512 • M,T,TH . . . . . . . . . 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m • W,F . . . . . . . . . . . 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. • SA . . . . . . . . . . . 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m Newark Public Library 817-489-2224 • M,T,Th,F . . . . . . . . . 3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. • Sat . . . . . . . . . . . 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. • Sun & Wed closed Rhome Public Library 817-636-2767 • T-F . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. • Sat . . . . . . . . . . . 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Audrie Holt - 3 months old for her first Easter
My father was my teacher. But most importantly he was a great dad. - Beau Bridges It’s the growing season… and planted
inside every Woodhaven branch are people who make your banking experience a pleasure, whether you’re growing a business or a family. We’ve never had to work very hard at treating you like an individual — it just comes naturally. Visit one of our branches today.
Member FDIC Independent Locally Owned
www.woodhavenbank.com
940.210.1769 • WISE
Woodhaven National Bank 800 Hwy 287, Suite A Rhome • 817.638.5111 Woodhaven National Bank 6750 Bridge Street Fort Worth • 817.496.6700 Mansfield Community Bank 1700 E. Broad Street Mansfield • 817.473.5979 Ridglea Bank 3325 Fairfield Ave at Camp Bowie Fort Worth • 817.731.3361 Woodhaven Bank Northeast 4607 Colleyville Blvd. Colleyville • 817.656.7755 Mercantile Bank 2229 A Park Row Arlington • 817.277.2225 Woodhaven Bank 6301 N. Beach Street Fort Worth • 817.489.6500
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Dave Says
Basing term life insurance Dear Dave, I’m looking at buying term life insurance. Currently, I’m in medical school doing my last year of residency and making $35,000 a year. Should I base the amount of insurance coverage on what I’m making now or what I’ll make when I’ve finished medical school? - Amanda Dear Amanda, In most cases, I advise basing the amount of life insurance coverage on the income you’re earning at the moment. After all, that’s the amount your family is used to living on, right? However, if you’re finishing up your medical degree this year, it’s a virtual certainty you’ll earn lots more in 2014. You could easily go from making $35,000 to $135,000. I recommend that people buy term life insurance coverage of about 10 to 12 times their annual income. Considering your situation, I’d say you could afford to buy a little potential. Instead of basing it on your current $35,000 income and buying a policy in the $350,000 to $400,000 range, you might double that amount. It will still be really cheap coverage as long as you’re in decent health. And once you’re making doctor money you can adjust the amount of coverage according to what you actually make. Good luck, Amanda! - Dave Fighting the insurance company Dear Dave, My wife and I were recently involved in an auto accident, and the insurance company doesn’t want to cover the damage due to a technicality. We both work, so I’d like to find a replacement car while we fight this out with the insurer. However, we only have $7,000 in savings and we don’t want to spend it all. What should we do? - John Dear John, You can definitely find your wife a good used car for what you’ve got in the bank. However, leaving yourselves with no savings whatsoever is not a good plan. I realize no one enjoys driving a beater, but that’s what I’d do right now. Just look at it as a rental car. If you spend $1,500 on a little used something, you will have $5,500 left in your savings account. Just act as your own insurance company for a while. Then, when the big guys pay up, you could just plug it back into your savings account. Even if they don’t pay, you’ll still have a nice chunk of change sitting there. And it wouldn’t take long to save up enough to upgrade that little hooptie to something nicer
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and more reliable while still keeping the majority of your savings intact! - Dave A model opportunity Dear Dave, My daughter is 14, and she was recently offered a steady weekend modeling job. Do you have any advice on how to handle the money she earns? - Cynthia Dear Cynthia, In terms of investing some of the money she’ll make, a Roth IRA would be pretty cool. You would have to oversee it, of course, and you’d have to file a tax return, but starting something like this when she’s 14 would help set her up for some serious money later. I think the biggest thing, however, is to make sure you create lots of teachable moments for this young lady. There are three areas every child should learn about when it comes to finances: spending, saving and giving. If she’s working and earning money, she should be able to spend a little and enjoy the fruits of her labors—within reason, of course. Saving for the short term might include putting money aside for a car or even college. Long-term goals would include the Roth IRA, so she would have a head start on being able to retire with some dignity one day. Then you should always make sure to give some. Whether it’s tithing to your church or finding other good causes, giving helps others and it’s good for the giver. When we give, it helps us realize that we’re not the center of the universe. It also makes us a little more Christlike. This is a phenomenal opportunity for your daughter. It’s also a great chance for you, as a parent, to involve her in the process and teach her important lessons that will last a lifetime! - Dave Trusting in the family Dear Dave, When should a couple think about creating a family trust? - Angie Dear Angie, A family trust can take different shapes. Couples with young kids sometimes consider creating a trust in the event that they both die unexpectedly. In these situations, a family trust would be managed for the care of minor children. Some people also create trusts for the purpose of avoiding estate taxes. These trusts aren’t as common, because you don’t have to worry about estate tax problems unless
Essential expenses Dear Dave, I’m following your plan, and currently I have $14,000 in my emergency fund. What are essentials for three to six months of expenses? - Brian Dear Brian, Basically, you should ask yourself this question: What would it take to operate my household for a month? There are several different things that could be classified as “essentials,” but if you take those things and multiply the number by three, four, five or six, you’ll see how much money you need to have a fully loaded emergency fund of three to six months of expenses. This is Baby Step 3 in my plan. Some people get really technical about exactly how many months of expenses they need to save in this range. And that’s okay. You can take a little time to evaluate things before moving on to Baby Step 4, which is investing 15 percent of your household income into Roth IRAs and other pre-tax retirement plans. Believe me, it’s a great feeling to have a big pile of cash sitting there just for a rainy day. You don’t want to go nuts and make it so big that you sacrifice retirement or other important aspects of your life, but after a point you shouldn’t be too concerned whether you have three months or six months of expenses—or somewhere in between— saved just for emergencies. Having a nice emergency fund, along with no debt, creates a wonderful sense of financial peace! - Dave Don’t move the money Dear Dave, Both of our daughters will start college next year. We have $25,000 set aside for each in their custodial accounts, but my financial advisor says we should take the money out because it will keep them from being awarded as much in scholarships and other assistance. What do you think? - John Dear John, I disagree. It’s like saying you should quit your job to
get food stamps. You guys obviously aren’t poor, and any financial advisor who says you need to fake being poor in order to get help is not a person whose advice I want to follow. When your kids apply for scholarships and assistance, your entire financial picture will be assessed. More funding goes to kids from poor families than rich ones, but that’s only fair. Chances are, you fall somewhere in the uppermiddle portion of the scale. But no, I wouldn’t move the money or try to hide it. It’s just not honest to try and act like you’re poor when you’re not. I don’t believe in that kind of stuff. - Dave
Dave Says
you have assets in excess of $5 million, based on current law. But to be honest, Angie, I can’t think of a situation where you’d want to create a family trust to manage money while you’re alive. Unless, of course, it contains some kind of estate planning implications. - Dave
She stole his identity Dear Dave, If a wife takes out a credit card in her husband’s name without his knowledge, and they get divorced, can the husband claim identity theft? - Nancy Dear Nancy, Absolutely! Unless they have power of attorney, anytime someone opens an account in a name other than their own, they have stolen an identity. Being married to someone doesn’t give you the right to sign their name to a document. I knew a guy in the real estate business years ago who was doing a lot of property deals under his own name. Occasionally, the title company would require his wife’s signature, and he would sign her name on the papers himself. Sometimes he signed her name after calling her up and explaining what was happening, and she was okay with the situation. Then, he signed some papers she didn’t know about, and it came back to bite him. He was charged with criminal fraud! You cannot legally sign your spouse’s name without first having power of attorney privileges. If you do, it’s called identity theft. It’s a crime anytime you lie to get money. - Dave ■
Dave Ramsey For more financial help, please visit daveramsey.com 940.210.1769 • WISE
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Family Album
Braydan Vela, looking for some goodies in his Easter basket.
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T
he concept of “Justice” is often overlooked in both personal and business relationships. As a matter of fact, today’s society rarely uses the word justice outside the court and legal system. We must examine the concept in light of our own business and personal life. The value of justice cannot be overlooked – Justice is on equal value standing with liberty – freedom. Recall your pledge to the flag as a child. While justice is often defined as a fair and equitable treatment of others, we must learn how to apply this principle into daily living. We must “up our game” and learn new ways to seek excellence in our life. I believe that justice is a system of doing the right and honorable thing in all situations. We must refuse to sacrifice justice and equity, even if it effects our finances. The practice of justice must be resurrected in our daily life and practiced in our every action as business leaders. Business today often seems to be conducted with financial gain as the total end game. I feel business is much more than that. I believe that your business is a reflection of you and your personality. Your business life cannot be a way of doing things just to seek advantages for the doer. Fair play is simply that. You must seek the level playing field that develops and encourages staff and your client base. We need to encourage the practice of dealing fairly, without reservation or thought of gain – to live life justly! We must recall that the statue of Justice stands blindfolded – conducting her judgment without partiality. But how does that translate into everyday life and business? We must, as business leaders, practice justice in the development and display of our personal character through our decision-making and the mentoring we provide without favoritism. The establishment of sound practice based on justice builds your business, your relationships and your public opinion. Sound fairness reflects truth. Truth encourages excellence. As we look to the future of our business life and personal development, the application of truth and fairness will encourage the change we desire to see in the word around us. Desire the display of true justice in your business and add value to your life and to your community. As the saying goes, “Justice is truth in action.” Start moving forward! ■
Women’s Occupational Workshop
Justice: Applied Excellence
Wise Pediatrics
940-626-4400 A Specialist for your children as they grow!
Leslie Hollis, MD
Board Certified in Pediatrics since 1999 Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics
Accepting Most Insurances Call if you have any questions
609 Medical Center Dr., #2300 Decatur, Texas 76234 Attached to Wise Regional Hospital www.WisePediatrics.com
Keitha Story-Stephenson, Ph.D.
Keitha Story-Stephenson, PhD, director of BlueSky Wellness Center, provides private consultation for individuals and corporations in Nutritional Wellness, Weight Management, ADD/ADHD Nutritional Management and other Alternative Health Care. Available by appointment in Decatur, Texas ay 506 West Walnut. You may phone 817-239-9525 or visit ainformation. Follow us on our blog, www. DrKeitha.com or www.MerchantsCircle.com Keitha also serves as CEO of SkyBlue Family Ministries. You may reach the ministry by email at DrKeitha@me.com. Tune in to Christian Radio, KDKR 91.3fm, on Saturdays at 1:30pm, for “Feeding the Family-Mind, Body and Spirit”. Or tune in through live streaming at KDKR.org for our broadcast.
Justice is truth in action. - Benjamin Disraeli 940.210.1769 • WISE
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Family Album
Harrison and Henry Oberg in Ennis, TX on the Texas Bluebonnet Trail.
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Wise County Wonderings SOME WISE COUNTY MYSTERIES Supposedly there was a boot and leg bone of Norse extraction found Was there really an underground council room used by the Indians in Wise County. Did the Norsemen come down in our area? This in Wise County? Located between Decatur and the Wise-Denton exhibit was in a place in Sunset for many years. Now I am wondering County line where is it? Was the community of Gourley really once a rip roaring western town? Is there a cave with an underground river flowing through it in the north west part of Wise County? Is this the one a resident of Alvord On a hill near the site of Nicholville, many weird shaped “rocks” are once told me about finding a cave with seemingly man made arches, found, we are told they are not fossils. keystones? He and another man were making pictures as they explored. He died without further information. Is there a perfect figure eight in the terraine that could be seen in an arial photograph west of the Paradise School , that may have been an Letters from a man in Florida with NASA, indicated he believed Indian race track? ■ Rosalie Gregg Wise County may have been on the path of the Egyptians on their way to the Big Bend country, and they may have buried “plates” in two Rosalie Gregg was born near Hayden, New Mexico. Ms. Gregg different locations that could be found with infra red.photographic graduated from Paradise High School and from Decatur Baptist College. She married Robert Nolen Gregg, Jr., who had been a equipment One location would be near Boonsville and the other at Prisoner of War for 3-1/2 year during which time he helped build Park Springs. the railroad that led to the Bridge over the River Kwai in Thailand. Was there once an ancient city west of Cottondale?
Ms. Gregg has been involved with the Wise County Heritage Museum since its inception in 1967. www.wisehistory.com
Decatur Women’s Health Center Who do you TRUST
with your OB/GYN care?
Your health and well-being as a woman are our concern. We offer a full range of obstetrical and gynecological care. Our emphasis is on making You feel comfortable, confident and reassured.
Douglas Kyle, M.D.
Call today to schedule your next appointment.
940-627-4216
1713 S. FM 51, Suite 101 • Decatur, Texas 76234 940.210.1769 • WISE
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A Father carries pictures where his money used to be. - Unknown
Family Album
Bridgeport 2013 rodeo - Brayden, 2 years old
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Bridgeport 2013 rodeo Brayden and mom (wanda)
Six rules to help keep your teen driver safe tiny cars, which may offer less protection in a crash. Shelby recommends moderate-size vehicles for more stability and easier, more predictable handling. * Sedan style. Don’t give your teen more power than he or she can handle. “Even though sports cars have a strong performance image, a lot of accidents are speed-related,” Shelby says. * Crash-test ratings. Check the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Picks each year on its website, www.iihs. org.
(BPT) - If you worry about the kind of car your teen will drive, you’re not alone. In a survey commissioned by USAA, 81 percent of parents put reliability first when choosing a vehicle for their teens, followed by a high safety rating. The good news is that teens also want cars with the latest safety features. “Being safe is the new cool,” says Shelby Fix, a 21-yearold safer-driving advocate and automotive journalist. “There are cool colors and options, but side-impact air bags and hands-free devices - that’s what’s in the new, cool cars.” Fix, known as The Car Coach 2.0, says new technology turns teenagers’ heads almost as fast as slick makes and models. The daughter of automotive expert Lauren Fix, Shelby raced go-karts at age 7 and was raised on talk of crash-test ratings. She grew up hearing the mantra of a mother who loves cars, but loves her kids more - “You can replace cars, but you can’t replace a child.” That’s why the decision parents and teens make about that first set of wheels is so crucial. “Your car is like your outside shell when you’re in it,” Shelby says. She’s learned six key factors to look for: * Newer cars with newer technology. A used car may lack the technology that could save your child’s life. In addition to electronic stability control - which helps drivers keep control of the vehicle - and side-impact air bags, base prices for newer cars are including built-in rearview cameras and park-assist systems.
* Accident history. If you’re in the market for a used car, get a vehicle history report. It can alert you if a car’s been in an accident or damaged in a flood. * Mechanic’s signoff. Have an Automotive Service Excellencecertified mechanic check the vehicle to make sure the used vehicle you’re purchasing is a good one. Check out the vehicles that made USAA’s 2013 Top 10 for Teens list. They had to be USAA Preferred vehicles and have an MSRP below $25,500. In addition, each vehicle’s safety, reliability, insurance cost and overall value were considered. The cars are: 1. Dodge Dart 2. Dodge Avenger 3. Honda CR-Z 4. Chrysler 200 5. Honda Insight 6. Volkswagen Golf 7. Hyundai Elantra 8. Nissan Versa 9. Kia Optima 10 Chevrolet Malibu ■
* The right size. Avoid sport utility vehicles, which have higher rollover rates and can prove tougher to maneuver; and 940.210.1769 • WISE
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It’s Enough To Make You Smile! AFFORDABLE LUXURY - INDEPENDENT & ASSISTED LIVING - CARING STAFF
Visit our website:
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Or call for information — we’d love to have you drop by! (940) 627-1104 16
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Decatur, TX
Texas State License #132992
Reduce brain drain in your kids over summer
(BPT) - The second the school bell rings signaling that school’s out for summer, it seems that children immediately forget everything they’ve studied over the past nine months. When they return to school in the fall, playing catch up takes time. Studies show that this brain drain can result in as much as a few months’ worth of learning lost over the summer. The achievement gap widens in the fall as students struggle to “relearn” what they knew the spring prior. “Typically, teachers spend the first week to the first two months of the school year trying to bring student knowledge up to a specific level in order to advance their learning,” says Debra Hill, associate professor in the College of Education at Argosy University, Chicago and immediate past president of the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. “This is found most commonly in math, where review can last through the first full semester in some grade levels.” So when all your kids want is down time, how do you keep their minds tuned up? While proactive summer learning can certainly improve a child’s retention rate, the way that they learn in the summer may be different from how they learn while in the classroom. “Learning is an ongoing, lifelong activity,” says Hill. “A mental break for your kids in the summer should occur not based on learning, but based on the activities students engage in related to learning. Summer should be about more reading for fun, exploration, communication and application of what they have learned. “Since students do not often practice by doing or by teaching others, it would follow that the application of what they have learned in school through hands-on activities in the summer will assist in retention in the fall,” says Hill. “Handson experiences, conversations and physical activity will help kids continue to be mentally active.” Providing students with
opportunities to participate in activities they consider fun will not lessen the learning. “The more you can keep your students accessing previously learned knowledge in a new and practical way, the more it is likely to get implanted and permanently ingrained in their brains,” says Kevin Yeoman, an instructor in the Game Art & Design program at The Art Institute of Fort Worth. Family meals, trips to the store, collecting shells on the beach, heading to sports camp and almost any other activity can have a learning component if parents engage in conversation with their kids about the activity. “Learning a new skill, or about a new place, or a different way of doing something, or meeting new people are ways of studying. There will not be a test, yet the new information contributes to the overall mental growth of the individual,” says Hill. “Keep your students actively engaged in the world,” says Yeoman. “The more they can apply their book knowledge to new experiences and activities they enjoy, the more learning will take place. “You don’t want to create a resistance to learning by forcing your child into the same types of activities they do during the year,” says Yeoman. “Instead, take the lessons they’ve learned in school and apply them to everyday situations. Whether it’s having your child map out the route to the grocery store or use basic geometry to create a sandcastle, you’re providing them the opportunity to apply their book knowledge in a new way.” And that can even hold true with video games. “There are excellent technology tools such as video games and online projects that are educational and engaging,” says Hill. “The key is balance and not encouraging kids to focus most of their time on their electronic toys. “Ask kids what they like and want to do,” suggests Hill. “As an adult, examine what learning can take place when your child gets to select the activities they participate in. Talk to your kids, ask questions, provide problems to be solved, give them opportunities to explore and model what it’s like to be a life-long learner.” ■
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The Making of a Black Belt By Lora McCauley
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earing a black belt around your waist is more than the preconceived ideas associated with this colored piece of cotton. Two local youths, Kellen McCauley, 13, and RayAnn Schooling, 12, have reached this level after committing four and a half years of studying American Karate at the North Texas Karate Academy. Kellen and RayAnn had their Black Belt test on October 9, 2011 and passed the test! Yes, Kellen and RayAnn can break boards but obtaining a black belt represents years of dedication and commitment. Only one to two students out of every 100 students ever reach their black belt. Kellen and RayAnn began their journey within weeks of each other and since then have shared many hours learning the basics of self-defense. To become a black belt requires progressing through set skills for each belt: white, gold, orange, green, blue, purple, low brown, high brown, and red. Before you can earn your black belt, you must pass two more tests, one of which includes 15 rounds of sparring. Then, you must wait 18 months on probation while continuing to learn more advanced techniques of martial arts. Wearing a black belt does not mean that you are an expert; it represents the beginning of training not the end. Kellen and RayAnn also had to participate in tournaments. Participating in tournaments has allowed them to observe and appreciate the different forms of martial arts. Kellen and Ray Ann have a collection of trophies, medals and even swords from competitions that have taken place in the DFW area. Both have excelled in sparring competitions due to their technique and stamina. Furthermore, Kellen and RayAnn have hundreds of hours assisting the instruction of lower belts. They have also assisted in belt tests of other students, even when they were not involved themselves. They have also participated in numerous demonstrations across Wise County including Coal Miner’s Festival, Butterfield Stage Days, at local schools, and even a nursing home. This quote summarizes a philosophy found in the martial arts, “My instructor once told me that the first five ranks come from what you have gotten from the system, the next ranks come from what you have given back.” Karate becomes a second family because you spend many hours together at the dojo sweating and cheering each other on to that next level. Even the parents become close because of the time you spend watching your child develop muscle memory for each skill, to sharing the nervous anticipation before each test, and then rejoicing for the 18
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accomplishment of what they struggled to learn the months before. The McCauleys and the Schoolings may have started out as strangers from two different towns, but now are close family friends. As a little boy, Kellen wore a black cape and fought for good over evil, pretending to be Bat Man. After moving to Bridgeport, Kellen saw an opportunity to work on his super hero skills and make news friends. Kellen utilizes his physical abilities gained in karate in Sea Cadets, a Naval youth education program. Kellen hopes to use the experience and skills learned in karate and Sea Cadets to one day attend a military academy. RayAnn’s desire for taking karate was sparked because she is an avid fan of Walker, Texas Ranger. RayAnn proves that karate is not just for boys because she possesses strength, flexibility and self-defense skills that make her highly competitive against the boys. Furthermore, RayAnn is taking classes in Dallas to earn a black belt in weapons. Learning how to use a bo, a tonfa and nunchunks are only the beginning to this demanding class. RayAnn has another love besides karate, basketball. She spends many hours with a ball in her hand working on skills she has learned from some great basketball coaches. Her hopes are to use her experience and skills in karate and basketball for scholarships. Kellen and RayAnn received their Black Belt certificate on May 3, 2013 and “officially” become black belts. This accomplishment is due to the dedication of their instructor, Stephen Starnes (7th Degree Black Belt), the support of their parents Lora and Cody McCauley and Julie Schooling, and their fellow students at NTKA. Becoming a black belt is about heart and character. Both Kellen and RayAnn strive to show the honor, integrity, respect, and excellence that go with wearing the belt. ■
SMART STRATEGIES FOR SPORTY KIDS
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10 Ways to Play it Safer
he mildest of injuries can spoil your child’s fun this sports season, so bear in mind these mindful ideas to keep the athletes in your family healthier. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), three million kids are injured playing sports each year. Most of these injuries occur as a result of falls, being struck by an object, collisions, and overexertion. Even if your child will only be enjoying backyard sports, do keep these safety tips in mind: 1. Buy New Protective Gear and Shoes. As parents we frequently worry about our kids’ safety, but unfortunately, we don’t always worry about the RIGHT THINGS. Helmets, for example. They save lives! According to the AAP, cycling, skateboarding, and skating are responsible for the majority of sports-related head injuries, so their tender noggins need protection. Buy proper mouth guards, protective guards, and the right shoes (FYI: soccer cleats won’t work for baseball). And it’s important to buy NEW. Shoes from last season may be worn down and uneven on the bottom which can cause an ankle to twist. Don’t chance it. 2. Talk to a Physician About Previous Injuries. Most team sports require a physical examination anyway, so do take the time to get the green light from your physician and discuss previous injuries. Your child may be advised to tape the injured area or wear a supportive ankle brace during games. Make sure to follow medical recommendations to prevent reinjury. 3. Explain to Them and Reinforce Proper Rest. This is especially critical during summer vacation when kids and parents alike tend to keep late hours. Proper sleep will aid in preparing your child for the match, help her concentrate (to avoid injury) on the field, and then recover. 4. Say No to Bare Feet. Warm weather may be all about barefootin’ it, but sports is not! Uneven surfaces and getting kicked or stomped on spells bad news for little feet. Talk with your kids about how it won’t be any fun to be stuck inside with an awkward cast or bandage all because they were too busy to tie on shoes. 5. Prioritize Safer Practices. The AAP reports that 60% of all organized sports-related injuries occur during practice! Make sure you talk to your child about wearing proper protective gear and concentrating at practice just as much as during the game.
6. Scope Out Unsafe Playing Fields. Dips, divots, holes, and uneven surfaces have “sprain” written all over them. Coaches may get busy with players and administrative duties, so if possible, parents should take time to walk the field and report any potential issues. 7. Stretching and Warm-ups Are More Important Than You Think. Talk to your child about the threat of straining muscles. Light jogging, stretches, and warm-up exercises warm the body’s tissues and keep them flexible. Warming up also clears the mind, aids focus, and mentally prepares them for the game.
8. Confirm First-aid Kits Are Accessible. Again, coaches are often burdened with excessive responsibility and details, and here is a concrete area where parents can pitch in. Kids and sports are too dangerous a combo to ever be without a first-aid kit. 9. Hydrate. Hydration during both practices and games is critical, so go ahead and be the parent who always has an extra bottle of water – it’s too important. 10. Seek Immediate Treatment For Injuries. Time is often of the essence where sports injuries are concerned. Even if the injury appears to be an ankle sprain, see a physician to avoid future issues such as instability or arthritis. ■
Michele Ranard, M.Ed.
Michele Ranard has a husband, two sons and a master’s degree in counseling. 940.210.1769 • WISE
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Family Album
Venture crew working Butterfield Stage Days! Left clockwise, my mom, Jennifer and I on the way to set up. / Josh Garrett, Jonathan Wood, our advisor, and Brett Daugherty. / Alexis Garrett and Jennifer Prentice working on the funnel cakes, which didn’t work out too well! / Our setup, Popcorn, cotton candy, and Dutch oven Stew and Mac n’ cheese. Had a ton of fun and ate some good ribs and Southwestern Stew!
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Fun & Games Across
1. Caesar, e.g. 6. Goes out to sea 10. Stuff to be crunched 14. Surrogate 15. Lunar plain 16. Actor Jannings 17. Drop flavor 18. Cut ___ (dance) 19. Flying start? 20. Talkative one’s question, part 1 23. Pongee color 24. Robin’s creator 25. Waikiki neckwear 26. Cotton deseeders 27. Medium states 31. Talkative one’s question, part 2 34. One thing among several 35. Marilu, on ‘’Evening Shade’’ 36. Balcony section 37. Didn’t take part, (with ‘’out’’) 39. Turow work 40. Ticker tape? 41. Sitter’s handful 42. Talkative one’s question, part 3 44. Your overall circumstances 46. ‘’How the Other Half Lives’’ author 47. Grass structure 48. Grammy winner Black 50. Moo goo ___ pan 53. Talkative one’s question, part 4 57. ‘’Incredible’’ one 58. ‘’Why don’t we?’’ 59. Serve the purpose 60. Look at too intently 61. French play part 62. Sculpt 63. Optimistic 64. Ref’s decisions, sometimes 65. Baby bouncers
Down 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
7-10, e.g. Fight card site Play salesman? Neuron part Exhibiting charisma Forgoes the USPS Peerage member
onlinecrosswords.net
8. What some dye to become 9. Utah’s state flower 10. Overwhelm with sound 11. Mom and apple pie, e.g. 12. Lose steam 13. Succulent plant 21. Two-bit 22. Certain drumbeat 26. Word before ‘’I don’t know’’ 28. Burgundy, for one 29. Word with when or where 30. It may follow the pitch 31. Way to go downhill 32. Pig’s place? 33. Walking surface for the nervous 34. Addams cousin 38. Worker’s carrot
39. Yiddish plaints 41. Take the bait 43. Retaliate 45. Really bad film 46. Salon offerings 49. Numbers game 50. Scowl 51. Kicking partner 52. Guernsey and Jersey 53. Noted hammer thrower 54. Science fiction award 55. Developer’s map 56. Netman Lendl
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Wise County Animal Shelter Wisecounty Animalshelter on Facebook Or look for the volunteer ran FB page Urgent Animals at the Wise Co Texas animal shelter Ways you can help the shelter. Donate suppliesCanned and dry dog/cat food Dog/cat treats (No rawhide bones) Kitty Litter Dawn dish soap Bleach Laundry detergent Batteries (9v and AAA) for scale and chip scanner Volunteer your timeCome walk dogs, bathe and groom, interact with cats Donate to sponsor adoptionsEach adoption Is $25.00 you can sponsor adoptions by making a check payable to the Wise County Animal Shelter and mailing it to Brenda Argraves, 425 Hilltop Drive, Decatur, TX 76234. Brenda will post on Facebook when your sponsor fee has been used. She will mail you a receipt from the shelter once your funds have been used.
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Donate to sponsor spay/neuter couponsMail a check made payable to shelter volunteer Brenda Argraves to 425 Hilltop Drive, Decatur, TX 76234. She will pass out coupons to new pet owners who adopt from the Wise County shelter for spay/neuter discount. Make sure you write in the memo section on the check what the donation is for. Foster for rescue groupssometimes when rescue groups are willing to pull a dog or cat from the shelter they need someone to foster the animal until they can have it transported to it’s new home or until it can be adopted. If you would like to find out more about becoming a foster please Contact Shelly Sessums on FB or go to her website at www.safeandsoundanimalrescue.com and fill out the foster application. Donate directlyDonate directly to the shelter for general needs- drop by or mail a check to 200 Rook Ramsey Decatur Texas 76234
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