y o u r
c e n t r a l
v a l l e y
f a m i l y
r e s o u r c e
Behavior
Maybe I Better Double Check 0 R2 E B EM DEC
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Gardening Make A Seed Ornament
Nutrition
Holiday Hosting
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EDITOR’S LETTER
I
t’s that time of year again – time to break out the credit cards and buy everything on our lists, “Tis the Season of Giving.” But during this season, there are so many other ways we can give to others, especially our children. Gifts with more longevity than any plastic toy or cardboard box could provide.
This season how about we teach children the “Gift of Forgiveness.” This can be a tough one. Often our actions tell our children it’s easier to hang on to all of the wrongs we’ve suffered, than to truly forgive the wrongdoer. Certainly we have felt deep regret for something we’ve said, or done, that’s hurt someone and if we can accept the gift of forgiveness, mustn’t we also forgive? Next is the “Gift of Understanding.” Funny, not everyone thinks, acts and believes as we do. When we are younger, our world is much more black and white. But with age comes the realization that the world is much larger than our own personal space. We have all been in situations where we felt like the “outsider” and have been embarrassed by children who have acted out in stores. These experiences give us more tolerance, compassion and understanding for others and their circumstances. Our children learn from simply watching our responses to others. What is the Christmas Season about if not hope? There will be times in everyone’s life when they’ll need to be uplifted by an encouraging word. When all seems lost, it is hope that keeps us going. A smile, a warm embrace or a nonjudgmental ear can be all it takes to turn someone’s light back on. We don’t always know when that moment will be, so we must be generous with our “Gift of Hope.” Teaching our kids to be encouraging to others is a gift every parent can afford. We’ve all benefited from others’ acts of forgiveness, understanding and hope. Now it’s our turn to pay it forward to our children. While we search high and low for the perfect gifts let’s make sure they count for something, they last a lifetime, and not the often short-lived kind that soon find their way to the receptacle. The Raise staff wishes everyone a wonderful “Season of Giving” and we will see you next in 2014.
KAREN TELLALIAN, EXECUTIVE EDITOR For more information or to submit a story idea, email Karen@dmiagency.com or call (559) 739-1747 or fax (559) 738-0909.
P.S. For What’s Fresh now check out our bookmark on page 21.
RAISE MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2013
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Gardening
E D EC
Make A Seed Ornament
MBE
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PUBLISHED BY DMI Agency 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291 EDITORIAL Executive Editor KAREN TELLALIAN Content Coordinator KATIE PRESSER ART & PRODUCTION Art Director ROSS YUKAWA Graphic Designer CHRIS BLY CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
in this issue
ANGELA DURAN ISAACS CRYSTAL R. R. EDWARDS JUSTIN & REBECCA REYNOLDS KELLEY PETTY
6
Behavior
16 Arts & Crafts
Maybe I Better Double Check
18 Achievement
LINDSEY HARRISON
8
Humor
19 Financial
SUSAN SCHIEFERLE
Deck The Walls
22 Adventure
10 Health
23 Happy Trails
26 Kids’ Corner
Breakfast: To Eat or Not to Eat?
14 Positive Parenting
The Three Steps of Financial Wisdom
20 Nutrition
27 Dental Health 28 Calendar 31 Resources
Holiday Hosting: Serving Up Nutrition The Classy Way
Obsessive Interest and Repetitive Motions: Puzzling Behaviors in Toddlers
30 Reading List
Simple Activity Books for Shorter, Cooler Days
RAISE MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2013
LISA A. MILLER
BUSINESS MANAGEMENT MALKASIAN ACCOUNTANCY LLP GARY MALKASIAN CPA JEFFREY MALKASIAN EA Operations Manager MARIA GASTON ADVERTISING SALES Account Executive BRYCE McDONALD SALES OFFICE 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291 559.739.1747 • Fax 559.738.0909
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Raise Magazine is distributed in Visalia, Exeter, Woodlake and Tulare. If you would like copies available at your business, call 559.739.1747 Raise Magazine is published 12 times a year and distributed at hightraffic locations in the South Valley area. For a list of locations, call the DMI Agency office. Views expressed in columns are those of the columnist and not necessarily those of DMI Agency or its advertisers. © 2013 DMI Agency
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LEE LITTLEWOOD
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24 Development
KEITH E. WILLIAMS
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BEHAVIOR
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RAISE MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2013
BEHAVIOR
Maybe I Better DOUBLE CHECK By Lisa A. Miller, Ph.D., Licensed Child Psychologist
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his old rhyme, “Step on a crack and you will break your mother’s back,” is an apt description of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Individuals with intrusive thoughts or obsessions (such as if I do not skip the cracks something may happen to someone I love) may find themselves engaging in skipping over cracks or other rituals (compulsions) in order to reduce the anxiety felt when negative or scary thoughts come to mind. Other common behaviors include excessive hand washing (usually due to a fear of germs), counting, and the need to repeat a behavior a certain number of times. Examples of repeating an action would be touching the doorway three times before opening the door or needing to say a word or phrase several times before performing a task like homework. Children with OCD may have the need to engage in repeated checking, as in looking over and over into their backpack to “make sure I put my homework in,” or going into the back yard many times to make certain that they have fed the dog. We have all experienced thinking that there was something we needed to do, something we forgot. Many of us have superstitions, such as athletes wearing their “lucky socks” on game days. However, it is when these thoughts and behaviors interfere with daily living that a child may possibly have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. They know that what they are doing makes no sense, but if the person suffering with OCD does not do what they feel they
need to do, their anxiety grows. Doing the action or saying the statement reduces anxiety, which is why the symptoms tend to stick around. OCD is caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain. While some children may require medication to treat their symptoms, many benefit from a type of therapy called Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT). CBT includes exposing the child to their fears, such as being afraid to get dirty, or having them write down the thought that worries them (e.g., something bad will happen to my teacher if I do not do my homework just right). Performing these exercises, or deep breathing and other methods, may reduce the anxiety without repeating the compulsion, whether a thought or action, until the anxiety decreases. In this way the child is able to unlearn the compulsions, which have developed to decrease anxiety, since the anxiety has decreased in other ways. Parents should know that children can regain control of their minds and get on with the activities and joy that go along with being a child.
For Parents Freeing Your Child From OCD by Tamar E. Chansky, Ph.D. The Boy Who Could Not Stop Washing by Judith L. Rapoport, M.D. Good Kids, Bad Habits by Charles E. Schaefer, Ph.D. Worried No More by Aureen Pinto Wagner, Ph.D.
Books For Children A Thought is Just a Thought by Leslie Talley Up and Down the Worry Hill by Aureen Pinto Wagner Mr. Worry: A Story About OCD by Holly Niner What to Do When Your Brain Gets Stuck by Dawn Huebner
RAISE MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2013
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HUMOR
DECK THE
WALLS Text by Crystal R. R. Edwards
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witter and Facebook keep me sane year-round, especially around holidays. I can blow off steam, solicit opinions and advice from friends, find supportive hugs from family, and read the tweets and updates of others to see how my stress-handling techniques measure up. And then there are times when it’s obvious I belong in a straight jacket instead of a snowman sweater, and that my friends and family are the last place I should go for support. Exhibit A, my Facebook wall last year. CRREdwards, December 21, 3:56 p.m.: The shopping is done, and just in time! I’m wrapping the last of it tonight once the kids are in bed. 7 people like this. CRREdwards, December 21, 9:08 p.m.: BUSTED! Tapper wanted water and saw his sisters’ gifts when he came downstairs. Help me find an excuse! He asked if Santa died. 3 people like this. Best friend: Take the presents back. The jig is up. Mom: Quit calling your sister an idiot. Sister: Did I ever catch you wrapping, Mom? Mom: If you don’t remember, the answer is no. CRREdwards: Guys? Help? He’s crying and hyperventilating. CRREdwards, December 22, 6:38 a.m.: Tapper told Hedgehog that Santa died last night. Tears all around. Wet waffles for breakfast. 10 people like this. Sister: You give them waffles? Whole-grain, I hope. Aunt: How did the talk go last night? CRRE: Whatever grain comes out of an Aunt Jemima box. The talk didn’t go so much as dripped out in snot bubbles.
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RAISE MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2013
Sister: Poor little guy. :( CRRE: Hedgehog now thinks I killed Rudolph, too. Best friend: Give her venison for lunch. That should help. CRRE: OMG. Birdie Sue just told Hedgehog that Grandpa’s the one that killed Rudolph, since Santa was already dead and couldn’t protect him. Mom: Should we still come for the holiday? Dad says to cancel the hunting trip on the 26th. CRREdwards, December 23, 5:42 p.m.: Yesterday and today have been awful. Tapper thought Santa was dead, Hedgehog started calling me Rudolph Murderer, and Birdie Sue fell into the tree during the “funeral”. Guests start arriving from out of town tomorrow. I need new ornaments to replace the ones that were broken. I haven’t seen my husband since this morning. 8 people like this. Sister: He’s shopping. I’ve been getting texts. CRREdwards: Shopping for who? BTW, they’re all calmed down now. I found deer videos on YouTube and told them Rudolph was right there but had run out of batteries. They think we were watching Santa’s nannycam. Sister: You. You wear size 8, right? CRREdwards: Size 22. You wear size 8. Sister: HAHAHAHAHA. Chubby. Best friend: Late to the party. I’ve been getting texts too. He’s shopping. You like pink, right? Nannycam is brilliant. Send link, pls.
HUMOR
Donald Edwards has written on your wall. Out shopping. Tried to text but phone is dead. Using computer at Best Buy while I get a $600 phone. Home soon! CRREdwards: Size 22. Sister told you wrong. And NO PINK. $600 phone? Srsly? DEdwards: OK, home before midnight. Sister: HAHAHAHAHA. Pink! CRREdwards: You have always been so annoying. DEdwards: What? CRREdwards: NOT YOU. Sister has updated her relationship status to “single”. 48 people like this. CRREdwards: What happened? Sister: He bought a $1,200 wood cutting something for himself and got me a cookbook. I just found everything hidden in the laundry room. CRREdwards: Heh. Because you’d never think to look in there. Sister: I didn’t, actually. One of the kids led me to it. I found your bathing suit, BTW. CRREdwards: Keep it. Should be good to roll the body up in. Sister has updated her relationship status to “married”. 3 people like this. Sister has changed her profile photo. 59 people like this. Sister: Look at it sparkle! CRREdwards: That’s a heck of an apology. DEdwards: Dude. LOL I’m so glad you don’t like diamonds, Crystal. You have updated your relationship status to “it’s complicated”. 23 people like this. Sister: HAHAHAHAHA. Dude. DEdwards: :( CRREdwards, December 24, 1:14 p.m.: They’re here! They’re here! It’s so good to see everyone. 14 people like this. CRREdwards, December 24, 7:58 p.m.: Someone save me. Father-in-law showed up with his new ladyfriend and my dad gave her a little New Testament. 28 people like this. Co-writer: LOL What did she do? Aunt: Yay! FIL stories! CRREdwards: She thanked him and put it into her purse. I like her. This is a teacher. DEdwards: Cryssi, get in here. You’ve been in the bathroom for forty minutes.
CRREdwards: No way. Stayin’ here. How’s the new phone? Mom: There’s no soap in this bathroom. Co-writer: Did you serve ham? CRREdwards: No, brisket. Look under the sink, Mom. I didn’t know you knew how to Facebook from your phone. Are you in the downstairs guest bathroom? I’m in the master bathroom. Mom: I took a class at the senior center. I thought it would come in handy for this trip. Upstairs bathroom. What was that noise? CRREdwards: I think Birdie Sue just fell into the tree again. Go look. Mom: No way. Stayin’ here. Did you take the wine in with you? CRREdwards: 0:) Mom: I’ll be there in a minute. DEdwards: Guyyyyyyys! They’re discussing politics! Ladyfriend is doing arts and crafts with the two little ones, and Birdie Sue is gluing ornament shards to the tree. CRREdwards: Grab another bottle from the rack on your way through, Mom. And two straws. I’ve just touched up my lipstick. Crystal R.R. Edwards has posted a video to her wall. 12 people like this. Co-writer: Nice tree. The broken glass makes it sparkle. You have an email with a draft of the 5th chapter. Edit me, baby! CRREdwards, December 25, 4:37 a.m.: So we’re all up now. The adults went to bed at 1 a.m. 107 people like this. Sister: Yeah. Same here. Co-writer: I just got home from the pub. Deadline soon! Where’s your outline? Best friend: How do kids know this stuff? Mom: Text me when the coffee’s ready. I’m staying in bed. Best friend: Ugh. DEdwards: Me too, please. Sister: Sooooo sparkly in the morning light! Squeeee! DEdwards: Never mind. I’ll bring you coffee instead, honey. CRREdwards, December 25, 8:04 p.m.: The kids are finally in bed. My parents leave in the morning for Ohio. I’m exhausted, but I feel good. I love Christmas! 202 people like this. Sister: HAHAHAHAHA. Sap. Aunt: Merry Christmas! Co-writer: Deadline tomorrow! DEdwards: Thank you for the Dr. Who scarf, sweetheart. I didn’t even know you were making it! Mom: Dinner was lovely, honey. Thank you. Could you bring some toilet paper up to this bathroom, please? There isn’t enough here for what I need. Best friend: Just got home. I wish I was adopted.
RAISE MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2013
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HEALTH
Breakfast: To Eat or Not to Eat? Text by Angela Duran Isaacs, RD, CLC, Family HealthCare Network
M
any have heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but how many actually eat it? According to a survey conducted by the International Food Information Council Foundation, 93 percent of Americans agree with the statement but less than half eat breakfast on a regular basis. So how important is breakfast to our health? Studies show that the breakfast meal can supply valuable nutrients such as protein, calcium and fiber to our diets. Skipping breakfast can have negative health effects for children, adolescents and adults. Breakfast skippers usually fail to make up for the nutrients they missed at breakfast. As a result, those who eat breakfast have better overall eating habits and higher intakes of protein, calcium, vitamin C, iron, zinc, fiber and lower fat intakes compared to those who do not eat breakfast. Those who skip breakfast are more likely to overeat at the lunch and dinner meals. Studies show that skipping breakfast is associated with signs of insulin resistance. The 2010 Dietary Guidelines pointed out that eating a nutrient-rich breakfast is associated with weight loss and weight loss maintenance. Those who ate breakfast tend to weigh less than those who do not. Studies also show that a breakfast filled with protein may improve satiety and diet Suggested ideas for breakfast meals, even if you do not like “breakfast” type foods. • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
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Whole grain cold and hot cereals Eggs or egg white sandwiches or wraps, hard boiled eggs Low fat dairy foods such as yogurt or Greek yogurt Veggie omelets Turkey bacon or sausage Peanut butter Whole grain breads, wheat tortillas, bagels or English muffins Added granola, almonds or walnuts Add low fat cheese (grilled cheese sandwiches or quesadillas) Protein bars or meal replacement bars Lunch meat, tuna or chicken sandwiches Crackers and cheese Eat leftovers from dinner or lunch Protein shakes w/ fruits and veggies
RAISE MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2013
quality in teens and adults or who are overweight and obese. Eating breakfast has also been known to increase metabolism, our body’s ability to burn calories. As the research stated we know that we “should” eat breakfast but struggle with how to put it into practice. Not eating breakfast has become a bad “habit” for most and now it is time to retrain your body to eat a morning meal within an hour or two or waking up. Just like anything else, practice makes perfect. Try to set excuses aside and make a plan that works best for you, your lifestyle, budget and family. Any breakfast is better than no breakfast, but make sure to strive for a balance of protein and carbohydrates.
RAISE MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2013
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GARDENING
For The Holidays:
Text by Susan Schieferle, Master Gardener, University of California Cooperative Extension
S
ince December is usually cold and dreary outdoors, let’s make a fun holiday gift that keeps on giving into the spring! You and your child can make herb or flower seed paper and shape into a hanging ornament for a gift. The recipient can plant this ornament in the spring by tearing into small pieces and planting in the garden. How awesome is that? Needed items • 18 jumbo craft sticks • 12” x 12” piece of cheesecloth • White craft glue • Electrical tape • Construction paper, red or green, 9”x12” piece • Water • Herb (or flower) seeds • Red or green ribbon • Blender, 9” x 9” baking pan, 2 old kitchen towels, scissors, hole punch
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Instructions 1. For the frame, glue together the corners of 4 jumbo craft sticks. 2. Lay the cheesecloth or screen over the sticks, completely covering the sticks. 3. Glue a second layer of sticks to 2 opposite sides of the frame OVER the cheesecloth or screen. You will have to break off part of the inside craft sticks to fit snugly. You and your child need to pull the cheesecloth tightly. Let dry. 4. Use electrical tape to cover the frame, tucking the overlapping cheesecloth under the tape. This will protect the sticks from water later. 5. Tear pieces of colored paper into squares about 1–2 inches wide. Place half into a blender and barely cover with a small amount of warm water. It is better to add less water at first. Blend until a thick “paste” is formed, adding more colored squares and/or more warm water as needed. 6. Fill a 9” x 9” pan halfway with warm water. Pour the paper paste into this pan. Stir gently. Stir in flower or herb seeds (I used basil), sprinkling with dried basil (used for cooking). Stir well. 7. Place a clean towel on a counter. Dip your screen frame into the pan mixture, going underneath the layer of paper and seeds. Pretend you are panning for gold! Bring the frame to the surface and move back and forth to get an even surface on your screen. 8. Lift straight out of the water, allowing excess to drip off into the pan. 9. Carefully, with the help of an adult, put your screen on the towel on the counter. Place the other towel on top of the screen. Flip it upside down, turning over and placing back on the counter. 10. Carefully remove the towel that is now on top, using a towel to get out excess water. 11. Flip it over again on a towel and place the seed frame with the towel under it in a warm place to dry. I put mine in the warm afternoon sun. 12. When dry, cut out the paper around the inside of the frame into the shape of an ornament. Punch a hole on top and tie a ribbon to make a bow. 13. You have an awesome ornament that can be planted in spring!
RAISE MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2013
Wood Industries will provide a FREE gallon bag of garden soil to any child who stops in to start a garden project! 7715 Ave. 296, Visalia, (559)625-9426
GARDENING
December Gardening Tip: Before you bring a living Christmas tree into your home, spray them with water to get rid of insects. Be sure to keep your tree watered well. This can be a good job for children to check the water level daily.
November Review: Your spinach seedlings should be sprouted now! Be sure to thin out the plants so they are 6–12 inches apart. Spinach should be ready to harvest in 7 weeks. Be sure to dig out any weeds near the spinach plants. Weeds can take water and nutrients from the spinach plant, causing it to not grow well.
RAISE MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2013
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POSITIVE PARENTING
The THREE STEPS of Financial Wisdom Tulare County Community Services & Employment Training, Inc. Member of Tulare County Children’s Services Network
C
onsistently keeping track of your finances is the only way you can ensure your family’s monetary situation is secure, and will continue to be in the future. January marks the start of a new year, and is the perfect time to start making good decisions when it comes to your money. Budgeting Simply put, it’s all about pluses and minuses. How much money is coming into your household after taxes and other deductions from your paycheck? This is your “income”. The minuses are all of the expenses in your household - count EVERYTHING. This can be time consuming but it’s a critical element in budgeting. This includes gathering receipts from your lunch meals, utilities, monthly obligations, gas, cell phone, gym memberships, etc. The final step involves some calculations: income minus expenses. Whatever number you get from this calculation is your profit. The result of this exercise can be depressing to some, but an eye opener for most. Usually there are two scenarios that take place when you create a budget: 1. Your expenses exceed your income – if this is the case, do some serious analyzing of your expenses and begin to distinguish between the wants and needs in your life. Eliminate the “wants” on your list that aren’t so necessary. 2. Your income exceeds your expenses - these results are positive, but occasionally people still don’t know where their money is going. If this is you, start tracking every expense. A great tool for this is the check register page (found in your check book), or there are online banking/budgeting applications for your smart phone that are easy to use, and can help you monitor your expenses. Overall, budgeting will help you have a good understanding of where your money is going and how much you have left at the end of every month. Credit Credit is another extremely important aspect of your financial wellbeing, as daunting as it may be. The saying “out of sight out of
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RAISE MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2013
mind” doesn’t work when it comes to building and maintaining credit. Due to the recession that many of us are still working through, we’ve all suffered financial hardships and unfortunately so has our credit. So what is credit? Think of credit as a report card on how well you’ve paid your monthly obligations. Credit shouldn’t be used foolishly or irresponsibly, it’s important to pay your bills on time. How does one begin to establish credit? One of the better options available to consumers to help establish credit are secured credit cards. Some financial institutions (call your local bank) offer lines of credit after you make a security deposit. For example, if you deposit $200 then your limit on the credit line is also $200. You will not have access to that money until you have a zero balance or as you begin to use and pay off the credit line. Once you have established a good standing with the financial institution by paying on time and not exceeding the credit, they may choose to return the money and maintain the credit limit. If you don’t pay your bills, then the financial institution will take the money owed from the deposit made. Building Wealth Now you have dissected your budget and developed an understanding and control over your credit. You are ready to consider how to build your wealth. Building wealth is merely using the extra money you have after you’ve paid your bills and using those funds to save for an emergency fund, purchase mutual funds, invest in stocks, bonds, or an IRA account. There are many forms of investments in order to profit off of the money you’ve saved. Speaking to a financial advisor or researching options provided by your employer will help you get started. They may have a profit sharing program, match program, employee stock option plan, or other wealth-building program. A little investing now will make it worth your while down the road. Don’t worry about seeing increases or losses on your investment statements (unless you are planning to retire soon). The market will have ups and downs, but regardless of these fluctuations, when you retire in twenty or thirty years you will have a nice nest egg. We just covered the three major areas of financial wisdom. Regardless of income, understanding the basic principles of these three will help you succeed in your path to financial security.
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RAISE MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2013
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ARTS & CRAFTS
T
he weather outside is chilly, and the house smells like gingerbread and pine trees. ’Tis the season for merriment and family bonding! This craft is an activity that the whole family can do together as an alternative to stringing popcorn or wreath making. It is a combination of those two traditional activities, but one that allows children of all ages to get involved safely. Make sure to pop two bowls of popcorn; one for the craft and one for everyone to eat!
Text by Lindsey Harrison, Museum Intern, ImagineU Interactive Children’s Museum
POPCORN
WREA
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RAISE MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2013
ATH
ARTS & CRAFTS
Materials: Large piece of cardboard (pizza boxes or cereal boxes work well depending on size) Bowl of popcorn White, non-toxic glue Ribbon Scissors and hole punch Paper or plastic plates or other circular objects (optional) Instructions: Cut out a big circle from the cardboard. To help create a nice neat wreath, trace around a circle object with a pencil. In the center of the circle, cut other another smaller circle so that you have a piece of cardboard shaped like a flat doughnut. At the top of the circle, use the hole punch to leave one hole. Pour some of the white glue into a bowl or on the scraps of cardboard. Dip pieces of popcorn into the glue and then stick them down on to the cardboard (careful not to cover the hole you made with the hole punch!), covering all the cardboard. After the popcorn is dry, string ribbon through the hole at the top. Decorate with ribbons, bows, etc., as desired! Tips: You might notice that the popcorn begins to shrink as it dries. No worries, this is normal. Putting the glue on the hard, little kernel bits instead of the white puffy part of the popcorn when possible will help some of the shrinking. The bigger the wreath, the more time consuming the project. If each child wants to make their own, small wreaths might be the best. A big wreath is a great project for a group of friends or a family!
RAISE MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2013
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ACHIEVEMENT
Student Achievements
Character COUNTS Text by Kelley Petty, CHARACTER COUNTS! Coordinator, Tulare County Office of Education
PERFORMING ARTS
COMMUNITY
LEADERSHIP
Carley Medrano
Emily & Elizabeth Rouse
Nic Olenslager-Orton
With close to a decade of music involvement, Monache High School senior Carley Medrano met a crossroad last summer that could have ended her Marauder Jazz Band experience. While preparing for her senior year, Carly noticed a conflict in her schedule, forcing her to take English 4 AP as independent study, to be able to include jazz band into her schedule. As a member of both the marching and jazz bands, Carley devotes many long hours to practicing, performing and leading her instrument section. When asked what Carley finds most rewarding about her music experience, she says, “Music teaches you about patience, practice, and putting forth the effort until it becomes comfortable to perform. Performing gives you a chance to share a passion for music with others. I don’t see it as an obligation.”Band Director Justin Adams says, “ This young lady has never missed a performance in her four years of high school. She is also a fantastic student. Carley is one of three students still eligible to be valedictorian for the class of 2014. This young lady, time and time again, has demonstrated responsibility to the faculty and staff of Monache High School.”
From collecting canned foods to painting campus signs, eighth-grade twins Emily and Elizabeth Rouse double the duty in Divisadero Middle School’s (DMS) leadership class. DMS Leadership teacher Amy Eddy believes, “Emily and Elizabeth take their roles in leadership seriously and are perfect role models for responsibility and student action. They are a joy to our campus!” These girls keep their calendars filled with student body officer duties, club memberships and sports, cheer and dance squad participation, not to mention sustaining honor roll status. Their efforts to organize canned food drives or facilitate WEB (Where Everyone Belongs) activities prepare them for future leadership opportunities in high school. For now, DMS will benefit from their goals to become better leaders, aware of their community needs. Emily and Elizabeth will tell you that “being involved in school leadership allows you to meet new friends, serve your community and develop peer relationships.”
Nic Olenslager-Orton, Student Body President at Tulare Union High School, is a true leader who makes sure that all matters at school are not just done, but done in top-notch, Redskin fashion. Principal Dr. Michelle Nunley shares, “From the day Nic became a Redskin, he has always been a great role model, enthusiastic, involved and hardworking, respectful and a team player.” Activities Director Mark Hatton declares, “Nic’s service toward his fellow students is second to none. I can think of no other student who has done more for the students of their campus than Nic.” In January 2013, Mr. Hatton’s leadership class organized Project Z, a school-wide club promoting zero tolerance for bullying. Nic says, “We wanted to turn the notion of acceptance from a negative to a positive. Our society tends to accept certain levels of bullying behaviors as a norm. We want to turn this around and allow people to be themselves in a community that accepts them without ridicule and hurtful behaviors.” It has evolved into a student-led campaign that focuses on what a supportive community looks like - people who support acceptance and tolerance and who take time for building relationships.
If you know of an outstanding student, contact Kelley Petty, Tulare County Office of Education CHARACTER COUNTS! Coordinator at (559) 740-4303 18
RAISE MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2013
FINANCIAL
MY GRANDPARENTS WERE SMART Text by Doug M. Berg, Certified Public Accountant
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hen I was a little kid growing up in Minnesota, my grandparents lived far away in some place called Florida. I didn’t know my grandparents well and I knew nothing of Florida. When my grandparents came to town, we went to nice restaurants. That was about it.
One Christmas they gave me (and each of my cousins) five shares of common stock in something called the Columbia Gas System. I didn’t even know to wonder what the stock was worth. It didn’t matter. Shortly after, I began receiving checks from this Columbia Gas System for $1.25, and I received them every four months. The checks were called dividends. Many years later, the checks had grown to $3.50 and my college girlfriend and I started treating ourselves to pizza every three months courtesy of grandma and grandpa. My girlfriend and I later married and started our jobs as adults. We learned about choosing to not actually receive the dividend and to, instead, “reinvest” the dividends to buy more stock. Since we only had the five shares and $3.75 could be missed in our budget, we decided to reinvest our dividends. Now, I don’t want to give away our ages too clearly, but let me skip to the end of the story. Let me skip to today. The Columbia Gas System is now called the American
Electric Power company and it is the major electrical company in the Northeast. We now own 317 shares valued at nearly $43 each or, in total, over $13,600. My experience is 100 percent true with zero flim-flam attached to it. I have thought of the lessons in that experience. “Honor thy grandparents” is an obvious one. “Focus on the big picture of American capitalism as a source of security” is another. A disciplined savings program (even though started in nearignorance as ours was) is essential. Apply the lesson to all sorts of things – like a college savings program or retirement planning – of a long-term nature. I am exceedingly grateful to my grandparents, but I also kick myself for not having taken the same steps to begin funding my daughter’s college education when she was just a baby. The final lesson – do something! I didn’t need a high-dollar broker to tell me what to do as I had grandparents willing to pass a lesson on to a grandkid believing that the kid would either learn the lesson or eat the pizza. Parents can provide that guidance just as well as grandparents.
Gentle, Caring Touch Dentistry At the office of Dr. Mariya Grigoryan your family’s smile is our priority. We offer comprehensive care for the whole family.
• Periodontal Care • Restorative Work • Teeth Whitening • Laser Treatments • Orthodontics • Implants
THE OFFICE OF Dr. Mariya Grigoryan, D.M.D. 2634 W. Walnut Ave., Visalia CA 93277 p 559.732.7224 Boston Graduate School of Dentistry, Certificate for Orthodontic Treatment Certificate for Oral Conscience Sedation, Fellowship Recognition for Implant Placement Member American Dental Implant Association, Certificate for San Francisco Implant Placement
THE GRIGORYAN FAMILY Simon, Hyke, Gary and Mariya
RAISE MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2013
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NUTRITION
HOLIDAY HOSTING:
SERVING UP NUTRITION THE CLASSY WAY Text by Justin and Rebecca Reynolds
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here isn’t anything more fun than family traditions, holiday gifts and serving our loved ones delicious, heart-warming food. This time of year brings about special appetizers, finger foods, beautiful main dishes and filling sides. So add a little class to your table and cut out some of the calories with a few substitutions for snack and meal times. It’s the best gift you can give to your children and families. These changes don’t have to be drastic – don’t panic. Instead of pulling out the store-boxed snack items, try something fresh for a quick snack on the counter. Cheese balls with vegetables and low-fat crackers can be a better choice than something sweet, but when purchased at the store can be full of sodium and preservatives. Try this cheese ball recipe from Savoring the Seasons, by Jones and Wells, for a cheese ball your children will gather around for conversation and laughter and eat happily with fresh carrots, celery, sweet peppers or whole-wheat crackers:
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IN SEASON
what’s FRESH?
Oranges
NUTRITION
Cauliflower Guava Artichokes
Source: Tulare County Farm Bureau
CHEESE BALL
BAKED OATMEAL
BANANA DROPS
2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened (you can use light or fat-free cream cheese) 2 C (approx. 8 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese 3 T finely chopped green onions ¼ C finely chopped bell pepper, any color 1 tsp seasoning salt 1 (8 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained ½ C chopped pecans
3 C rolled oatmeal (not quick-cooking) ¾ C brown sugar 2 tsp cinnamon 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp kosher salt ¾ C dried cranberries, raisins, dried cherries or other dried fruit 1 C milk ½ C butter, melted 2 tsp vanilla extract 2 eggs
2 ½ C flour (I use whole-wheat flour) 2 tsp baking powder ½ tsp salt ½ tsp soda ⅔ C shortening (This is where the recipe gets healthier! If you want to cut down on the fat, use 1/2 C applesauce in place of the shortening – that is what my grandmother does, but if she is out of applesauce, she does use the shortening) 1 C sugar (organic, raw, if possible) 2 eggs ½ tsp vanilla 1 C semi-sweet chocolate chips (dark chocolate) 1 C mashed bananas (about two whole medium bananas)
Directions: Combine all ingredients except pecans. Add additional seasoning salt, to taste. Shape into a ball and refrigerate for several hours. When ready to serve, remove from refrigerator and roll in chopped pecans. Serve with crackers and crunchy vegetables such as carrots, celery and peppers. Tip: If you are still in the mood for sweet, pull out your raw, local honey and drizzle some on a part of the cheese ball. Not only is the natural sweetness there, but the kids are building up their natural defense against the allergies of the season! With an easy, tasty and low-sugar/lowsodium snack ready in the fridge, it takes the stress out of serving family and friends while they are mingling. In the November issue we addressed different ways to cut back on the calories and fat of a large family meal, but what about breakfast? Instead of sugary cereals, doughnuts, or pancakes, try this easy, quick, sweet and amazingly delicious breakfast baked oatmeal, also by Jones and Wells. Have picky eaters that don’t like oatmeal? They just might change their mind as your kitchen transforms into the smell of heaven and their taste buds dance with their first bite of this cozy dish!
Directions: Optional toppings: chocolate chips, shredded coconut, toasted nuts, honey, and almond or coconut milk Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, salt and dried fruit in a large bowl. Mix together milk, butter, vanilla and eggs in a smaller bowl. Add the liquid to the dry mixture and whisk to combine. Pour into a deep 9-inch pie plate or an 8x8inch or 9x9-inch baking dish, lightly sprayed with cooking spray. Bake 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Serve immediately with a splash of warmed milk and toppings, if desired. Last, but maybe the most important, is something sweet and baked with love. Make these famous Banana Drops cookies made by my own grandmother, Hattie Stinger – now 90 years young – for your little ones! I haven’t found a banana chocolate chip cookie that is tastier or made with better substitutions than in this recipe. Your children will love these cake-like cookies and, as a mom, I love allowing seconds because I know the goodness in them!
Directions: Mix as for any standard cookie recipe. Drop by teaspoon on greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 °F for 10-12 minutes. These are more cake-like cookies and will be soft, warm and filling.
Give the gift of nutritious comfort foods and quality eating this year. Your children’s little bodies will happily absorb the goodness and your heart will melt when watching them decide for themselves that nutrition is delicious and desirable! Happy holidays!
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ADVENTURE
HORSE-DRAWN SLEIGH RIDE
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hat better way to get into the Christmas spirit than with an adventure complete with snow, apple cider, sleigh rides, Belgian Draft horses, and jingle bells? If you want to make an impression on your kids this holiday season, Yosemite Trails in Yosemite National Park has just what you need.
Once the snow starts to fall, Yosemite Trails offers horse-drawn sleigh rides during the winter months. They are located at the south entrance of the park, only a short 100 miles away. The sleigh rides give guests a rare opportunity to enjoy the Yosemite area bundled up close to your loved ones in a warm blanket as you go dashing through the snow in a three-horse open sleigh. Yosemite Trails remains mostly as it did over 70 years ago since it’s inception. For three generations, one family, now under the charge of cowboy Larry Knapp has been more than happy to share their way of life and make your holiday a great and memorable one. The horse-drawn sleigh departs from the Tenaya Lodge where your initial departure starts off in jolly good time and glides you through the winter wonderland of towering Sugar Pines, cedars, and a grand vista of Mount Raymond in the distance. Making this ride perfect for the whole family to enjoy or for a romantic weekend getaway.
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Once you arrive at the pack station, a campfire will be waiting to warm you up along with a cup of hot apple cider. Of course, to complement the warmth of the fire and cider is the plentiful snow play to be had. This part of the trip may be perfect for your young ones as they get to run around and throw snow balls, and well be a kid. But no one said you couldn’t partake too; after all, it’s the holiday season so why not let loose and be merry. For the ride back, Yosemite Trails likes to kick it up a notch with a swift trip back that is sure to invigorate you and create squeals of laughter and excitement. Once you arrive safely back at Tenaya Lodge, the fun doesn’t have to stop. The Lodge offers many different dinning experiences from elegant to casual, to suit whatever your needs may be and a great complement to a day of fun and adventure. Buy your tickets online or in the lobby of the Tenaya Lodge once you arrive. Yosemite Trails’ current schedule is from December 21 thru January 5. For more information and to book your tickets visit www.YosemiteTrails.com
HAPPY TRAILS
HAPPY TRAILS RIDING ACADEMY:
Highlights from 2013
Our spring fundraiser, Night at the Races, which took place on May 31, 2013 was the most successful fundraiser in Happy Trails’ history! In June of 2013, volunteers donated nearly 800 volunteer hours to our program, setting a new record for most volunteer hours in a single month! We teamed up with Mavericks Coffee House and Roasting Co. to host the Mavericks Pony Express 5k Run/Walk on our facility in September. This event was such a big hit that we are already planning another one for 2014! Our annual fall fundraiser, Round Up, sold out of tickets more than a week prior to the October 4th event and had a record crowd in attendance. Happy Trails is ending its 2013 riding sessions with the 1st Annual Happy Trails Horse Show taking place on December 7th. This horse show will allow the Happy Trails riders to compete and show off what they’ve learned throughout the year. Happy Trails would like to send a big thank you to our riders, volunteers, staff, and donors who all joined in to help us make 2013 such a great and noteworthy year. Next year, Happy Trails will be celebrating its 30th anniversary and we cannot wait to start this milestone and celebratory year. PAID ADVERTISEMENT
Text by Happy Trails Riding Academy
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appy Trails Riding Academy is a 501(c)3 non-profit program which enriches the lives of children and adults with physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities through equine facilitated therapy. Our program continues to grow year after year and 2013 was no exception. Here are a few highlights from this benchmark year: Happy Trails offered more than 2,200 therapeutic horsemanship lessons this year, surpassing all previous years. At the end of 2012, we launched a new fundraising campaign called the “Adopt-A-Thon.” Thanks to the support of our amazing community, we exceeded our fundraising goals for 2013 and look forward to setting new goals for 2014! In February, Happy Trails officially began its Equine Services for Heroes program to offer horsemanship lessons to those affiliated with the Wounded Warrior Project. Each session with the Warriors has been an incredible experience and we are so excited to have this new addition to our program! In May, Happy Trails took two riders to the CALNET horse show at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center, where they both placed in every single event in which they competed! For more information on the programs offered at Happy Trails Riding Academy, visit our website at www.WeAreHappyTrails.com.
Happy Trails Riding Academy Therapeutic Horsemanship Now Accepting Applications for 2014!!
For more information, contact:
(559) 688-8685
info@wearehappytrails.com
www.WeAreHappyTrails.com Location: 2773 E. Oakdale Ave. Tulare, CA 93274
Mailing: P.O. Box 572 Visalia, CA 93279
RAISE MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2013
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DEVELOPMENT
OBSESSIVE INTERESTS AND REPETITIVE MOTIONS:
PUZZLING BEHAVIORS IN TODDLERS Text by Central Valley Regional Center
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very child is different; they grow and develop on their own unique timeline. Like adults, they often have their own little “quirks” that make them who they are.
Many children will have strong interests from a very young age. These interests can be seen in activities, certain objects and routines. There may be a video game or movie that he must watch over and over again. There are those toys that you just cannot leave the house without, ever! Some children develop routines at bedtime preferring the same book to be read, the same song to be sung, or perhaps they need to wear one pair of pajamas in order to go to sleep. At times these behaviors can be frustrating; things must be “just right,” in order for the day to progress without tantrums, or for daily routines to not take longer. In most children these behaviors will go away as they grow and mature and become more adaptable to change and routine. When interests become unusually intense, or are so inflexible that a change in
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routine is not tolerated and the child cannot be calmed, this might be the sign of a problem. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends developmental screenings at well child visits at 9, 18, 24 and 30 months of age, using a structured assessment tool. It also recommends screening for Autism at 18 and 24 or 30 months, also using a recognized tool. Reviewing your child’s development and behaviors with your health care provider can help you understand what problematic behaviors are, and whether they may be indicative of a developmental disorder. One area of concern requiring assessment is referred to as “repetitive and restricted behaviors.” The behaviors can be both verbal and nonverbal. Nonverbal behaviors can include rocking, pacing, spinning, pre-occupations with parts of objects like intense focus on just the wheels or doors of a toy
DEVELOPMENT
car, instead of playing with the entire car as intended. Other examples are behaviors such as lining up preferred toys, and the insistence on sameness, such that the child may have a meltdown if he is prevented from lining that toy up in a certain way. Verbal behaviors may be the repeating of words or phrases in place of normal, responsive language. According to Ericka Wodka, PhD, a pediatric neuropsychologist at the Center for Autism and Related Disorders, “What is really defining about the behavior is that it is unusual, appears non-functional, and occurs over and over and over again.” Repetitive and restricted behaviors are one of three specific areas addressed in the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (MCHAT). This is an assessment tool that is utilized by professionals to screen for characteristics
of Autism. It is a questionnaire completed by the parent, is available in 14 languages, and takes approximately 5–10 minutes to complete. What is important to remember is that the purpose of screening is to identify children who are at risk. Children who are identified at risk are referred for further assessment. Assessment determines the existence of a delay or disability, which then generates a decision regarding intervention. Early intervention can have significant impact on addressing behaviors, language development and a child’s ability to learn new skills. If you have concerns about your child’s behaviors, contact your health care provider to begin the process of assessment. Central Valley Regional Center is available to assist with developmental assessments.
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KIDS’ CORNER
MONTHLY MAZE
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DENTAL HEALTH
TOOTH WHITENING Text by Keith E. Williams, DDS, Williams Family Dental
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hitening procedures have effectively restored the smile of people with stained, dull, or discolored teeth.
The darker tissue of your teeth, the dentin, can become exposed as the outer layer of enamel is worn away by the effects of aging or things like caffeine and tobacco. Food particles are naturally attracted to a tooth’s enamel by a certain protein. Products like coffee and tea, berries and soy sauce are notorious for staining teeth. Over time, teeth actually become more absorbent and vulnerable to staining from food and other substances. One type of stain–caused by traumatic injuries, medications and fluorosis–actually begins inside the tooth; brushing and flossing don’t help. Another type of stain–one that can be more easily attacked by brushing, flossing and rinsing–is caused by external factors such as foods. More and more people today are choosing tooth-whitening procedures to reverse the effects of aging and abuse from food and tobacco stains.
Some commercially available “whitening toothpastes” can be somewhat effective at removing stains and making teeth a few shades brighter. However, many of these products have abrasive substances that can actually wear away your tooth’s enamel. Whitening agents actually change the color of your teeth, but only are effective on certain types of stains. For example, bleaching agents have a difficult time removing brownish or grayish stains. These products also are not as effective on pitted or badly discolored teeth, or on restorations such as crowns, bridges, bonding and tooth-colored fillings (porcelain veneers or dental bonding may be more appropriate in this case). Professional whitening performed in a dental office is considered to be the most effective and safest method; done properly, tooth whitening can last as long as five years. Over-the-counter whitening systems are somewhat effective as long as they are monitored and directions followed closely.
KIDS • FAMILIES • WEDDINGS • HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS
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An Independent Practice Association providing
excellence in mental and behavioral health care delivery in Central California
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Kristin Sorensen Alldredge, LMFT
Melinda L. Mauro, LCSW
Ross M. Becker, PhD, LCSW
Mary K. McDonald, PhD
Frances E. Becker, LCSW Paul C. Bennett, LCSW
Mike Mayo, LCSW Lisa A. Miller, PhD
Sandra T. Bennett, LCSW
Lori Pasion-Gonzales, PhD
Linda Del Rio, LMFT
Diane B. Post, LCSW
Lynn W. Gonzales, LCSW
David G. Richards, LCSW
Sue Enterline, LCSW
Colleen Richards, LCSW
Jacquelyn Harris-Groeber, PhD Kent Henry, LMFT
John A. Mauro, LCSW
Frony Ritter, LMFT
Michael H. Shaffer, LCSW, LMFT Barry Sommer, LEP, LMFT
1212 W. Main Street Visalia, CA 93291 559-738-0644
www.thehelixgroup.org RAISE MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2013
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CALENDAR
december 2013
calendar of events dates to remember
Candy Cane Lane Parade
DECEMBER 2
Exeter 2013 Christmas Parade
DECEMBER 6
Resolution Run
JANUARY 1
DECEMBER
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JANUARY
CALENDAR
2 Candy Cane Lane Parade
“12 Days of Christmas” with Grand Marshall Mrs. Laurie Isham. Kick-off Christmas in Downtown Visalia with the 68th Annual Candy Cane Lane Parade! The ½-mile route heads down Main Street so grab your blankets, hot chocolate, and get a seat on the sidewalk! When: Dec. 2, 7p Where: Main Street, Visalia Contact: www.DowntownVisalia.com
5 Jazzy Christmas Parade
Tulare’s tree lighting and “Jazzy Christmas” parade will take place in Downtown Tulare. After the parade, the evening concludes with performances, a holiday bazaar, hot chocolate and live music. When: Dec. 5, 5p-8:30p Where: Downtown Tulare, K St., Tulare Contact: 686-1547
6 Exeter 2013 Christmas Parade
Downtown Visalia’s Holiday Open House
The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias
Enjoy exceptional shopping and dining while listening to your favorite holiday tunes from strolling musicians. Part of the ticket proceeds will go to the Central Valley Muscular Dystrophy Association. Bring a canned food items to support our month-long food drive benefitting a local food pantry. When: Thurs., Dec. 5, 12, 19, 5-8p Where: Downtown Visalia Contact: 732-7737 or www.downtownvisalia.com
Offering children ages 6-18 a safe and fun place to go to after school. Programs focus on education, sports, arts, healthy life skills and character building. $10 annual fee. When: Monday – Friday, hours vary by community Where: Visalia, Exeter, Tulare, Porterville, Farmersville and Ivanhoe Contact: 592-4074 or www.bgcsequoias.org
Annual Holiday Concert
Imagine U offers a variety of weekly interactive exhibits, events, and activities designed to entertain and engage your preschool child. Cost: $5 ages 2 & up When: Wednesday-Friday, 10a-4p & Saturday, 12-4p Where: 700 E. Main St., Visalia Contact: 733-5975 or www.imagineumuseum.org
14 Tulare County Symphony’s annual performance with traditional winter and holiday tunes, featuring local soloists and a local children’s choir. When: Dec. 14, 7:30p Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 300 Main St., Visalia Contact: 732-8600
“All I Want for Christmas” is this years theme for the annual parade. Exeter celebrates as the community comes out to share in the holiday Model Train Display spirit and charms of a city where this season 14 Presented by the Visalia Electric Railroad filled with good wishes. The parade includes Modelers and Historical Society. For two days, marching bands, drill reams, and it is said that all layouts will be running. Display will be Santa will participate in the festivities as well. located next to Hobby Lobby. Admission is free; Dress warm and be prepared for joy! donations are welcome. When: Dec. 6, 6:30p When: Dec. 14 (10a-8p); Dec. 15 (11a-4p) Where: Downtown Exeter, Pine St. Where: Sequoia Mall, 3303 S. Mooney, Visalia Contact: 592-5262 or www.exeterchamber.com Contact: Cecil or Darlene Eppler 733-1196 Resolution Run
1 Bank of the Sierra’s 1st Annual Resolution Run
Imagine U Interactive Children’s Museum
AgVentures at Heritage Complex
Agricultural Learning Center and Farm Equipment Museum with nearly 15 professionally designed interactive displays. Children learn about science and technology, food and nutrition, environmental issues, social studies and more! When: Mon.-Fri., 9a-4p Where: International Agri-Center, 4450 S. Laspina St., Tulare Contact: Venue Phone, 688-1030
is here to promote good health as well as giving back to the community. Distances include 5k, and a kids 1-mile run. Two charities, chosen by public vote, will be awarded the Resolution Run proceeds. Register by December 27. When: Jan. 1, 9:30a Where: Bank of the Sierra, 128 E. Main St., Visalia Contact: www.valleyresolutionrun.com
Fam i lear ly Fu n & ning Too !
Wed-Fri 10am-4pm / Sat 12pm-4pm
Admission $5 per person / Annual Family Memberships $72
Available for Private Parties!!! 700 E Main St, Visalia • 559 733 5975 visit imagineUmuseum.org for details Virginia Strawser, Executive Director • imagineUmuseum@sbcglobal.net
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READING LIST
Simple Activity Books for Shorter, Cooler Days Text by Lee Littlewood
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et your kids off their electronics and into more creative ways to wile away the hours. These new books are imaginative, clever modes of art and expression.
The Goods by McSweeney’s from Big Picture Press/ Candlewick Press The award-winning McSweeney’s team includes dozens of writers and artists, such as Jon Klassen, Mo Willems, Jon Scieszka and others, first thought up to contribute to an all-ages feature for newspapers. Forty-four installments of these unique games, puzzles and hardto-classify diversions (labyrinths, fortune-telling, glaring penguins, made-up words) have been transformed into The Goods. Truly for all ages, the uber-busy pages may each showcase up to 10 items. Page 22 includes etiquette tips by Prince Harry, a corgi mix-up game, a recipe for Kate’s Victoria sponge cake and a list of what the Queen stows in her trusty handbag – obviously, this page is royal-tinged. Recipes for a banana nut mouth-shake and tear juice share crowded space with how to learn magic from an actual unicorn and tips on how to test the limits of your body. A crazy, innovative activity book for “big kids, little kids, and medium-size kids,” The Goods are truly good! Paper Play by Lydia Crook Every page of this refreshing black and white book can be used to play games and make fabulous paper creations – cool paper dolls, origami, amazing snowflakes, beads, flying whirligigs, even a paper town. The sturdy pages only need, occasionally, scissors, paper and glue. The easy instructions encourage readers to roll, tear, fold or snip pages until they become cool toys, tricks or games. Young artists can create and share their art at
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www.mydoodlemasterpiece.com. Completely all-ages appropriate, Paper Play is groovy-cool. The Peanuts Gang Loves to Doodle! by Charles M. Schultz Schultz’s Peanuts gang continues to be popular. In this big drawing/ doodle book, kids of all ages can complete colored prompts that say, “What does Snoopy see on his drive through the country?” “Lucy is playing doctor today! Who is coming to see her? How much does she charge?” and “Fall is in the air! Draw piles of leaves for Snoopy and Woodstock to jump into.” Plenty of big white space encourages young artists to get creative; and each page features Schultz drawings to lead off each prompt. Gorgeous Doodles: Pretty, Full-Color Pictures to Complete and Create by Nellie Ryan, Annette Bouttell and Josie Jo With delicate and fun girly scenes on each page spread, Gorgeous Doodles helps kids fill out and decorate pages of customized cell phones, red carpet dresses, under sea koi, snow globes, ice cream cones and magical mermaid tails, to name just a few. Lots of zesty colors and a vast array of splendid scenes and designs should entice young artists to finish wall-hanging-worthy creations that are easily removable with perforated pages. Brothers and sisters, cousins and friends will enjoy RP Kids’ Icky, Sticky, Slimy Doodles by Andrew Pinder – “gross, full-color pictures to complete and create.” Dot Jewelry by April Chorba Klutz, the masterminds behind such fashion-forward books as Mini Capsters Jewelry and Wicked Cool Friendship Bracelets comes this latest accessory trend, “sure to be spot on!” With 1,500 pre-cut paper pieces in bright colors and prints – some hearts and stars but mostly beautiful dots – Dot Jewelry makes an activity kit sure to please. Kids glue the dots onto durable, clear cord to make one-of-a-kind jewelry that’s graphically pleasing and mod. Klutz, as always, includes clear instructions for bracelets to statement necklaces. There’s a 2-in-1 tool that picks up dots and crimps the cord ends to securely finish each piece, making them gift worthy and professional. The perfect birthday or holiday gift for girls ages 8 to 12; “Dots So Cute!” is guaranteed for satisfaction.
RESOURCES
important numbers at a glance: Fire & Police
• Tulare County Fire Department, (559) 747-8233 • Visalia Fire Department, (559) 713-4266 • Tulare Fire Department, (559) 684-4300 • Exeter Fire Department, (559) 592-3714 • Woodlake Fire Department, (559) 564-2181 • Tulare County Sheriff’s Department, (559) 636-4625; (559) 733-6218 • Visalia Police Department (Non-Emergency), (559) 734-8116 • Visalia Police Department, Gang Suppression and Narcotics Unit, (anonymous tip hotline) (559) 713-4737 • Tulare County - End Gang Hotline, (888) 363-4264 • Tulare Police Department, (559) 684-4238; (559) 686-3454 • Exeter Police Department, (559) 592-3103 • Woodlake Police Department, (559) 564-3325 • Kings & Tulare County California Highway Patrol, (559) 4415400
Medical
• Family HealthCare Network, (877) 960-3426; www.fhcn.org • Kaweah Delta Medical Center, (559) 624-2000 Emergency Room, (559) 624-2213 • Visalia Walk-In Medical Clinic, (559) 627-5555 • Tulare Regional Medical Center, (559) 688-0821 • Tulare County Health and Human Services Agency, (559) 624-8000 • Children’s Hospital Central California, (559) 353-3000 • Dignity Health, Mercy & Memorial Hospitals, Lauren Small Children's Medical Center (661) 327-4647 • Sierra View District Hospital, (559) 784-1110
Education
• Tulare County Library, (559) 713-2700; www.tularecountylibrary.org • Tulare County Office of Education, (559) 733-6300; www.tcoe.org • Visalia Unified School District, (559) 730-7300; www.vusd.org • Tulare City School District, (559) 685-7200; www.tcsdk8.org • Exeter Union School District, (559) 592-9421; www.exeter.k12.ca.us • Woodlake Public Schools, (559) 564-8081; www.woodlakepublicschools.org
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City Information
• Tulare County website www.co.tulare.ca.us • City of Visalia website www.ci.visalia.ca.us • City of Tulare website www.ci.tulare.ca.us • City of Exeter website www.cityofexeter.com • City of Woodlake website www.cityofwoodlake.com • Visalia Parks & Recreation, (559) 713-4365
Other Important Numbers County & City
• Tulare County Services - United Way, Dial 2-1-1; www.211ca.org • Delta Vector Control District, (559) 732-8606; www.deltavcd. com • Tulare & Kings Counties Suicide Prevention Task Force (Non-crisis), (559) 624-7471; www.sptf.org • Child Abuse Prevention Council, (559) 735-0456; www.tularecountycapc.org • Child Abuse 24-hr Hotline, (800) 331-1585 • Domestic Violence/Shelters, (559) 732-5941, (559) 685-9515; www.fstc.net • Sexual Assault 24-hr Confidential Hotline, (559) 732-7273; www.fstc.net • Alcohol/Drug Programs, (559) 733-6123 • Parenting Network, (559) 625-0384; www.parentingnetwork.org • Tulare-Kings Right To Life, (559) 732-5000; www.tkrl.org • The IRMA Network, (559) 732-5000; www.theirmanetwork.org • Latinos4Life, (559) 732-5000; www.latinos4life.org • 5ive5ive9ine (Teen Health), 559teensmatter.org • Tulare County Animal Control, (559) 636-4050 • Visalia Animal Control, (559) 713-4957
Nationwide
• American Association of Poison Control Centers, (800) 222-1222; www.aapcc.org • Center for Disease Control and Prevention, (800) 232-4636; www.cdc.gov • California Poison Control, (800) 222-1222; www.calpoison.org • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, (800) 273-8255; www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org • The Trevor Project (LGBTQ), (866) 488-7386; www.thetrevorproject.com • Missing Child Hotline, (800) 843-5678 • Road Conditions, (800) 427-7623
REMEMBER, WHEN IN DOUBT, DIAL
9-1-1
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RAISE MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2013
31