plus Money

management for every age

momaha.com volume 3 · issue 10 october 2012

Get a jump on college

lyinG: where to draw the line with honestyHighway 370 & 72nd Street, Papillion 402.537.0046

Mon-Sat 10-9, Sun 12-6 ShadowLakeShopping.com

More than 70 stores, services and restaurants

TOBER 1110:30 AM

Halloween Fro-Yo PartyYYOrange Leaf Yogurt

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 810:30 AM

Puppet Personalities ShowFirst National Bank

������� � �������� � �������� ������� � ���� � �������� ����� � �� ��� �����

�������� ����� ���������� � ��� �� � ����� � ������ ���� � �������� � ��������

������ �������� � ������ � ������ ������� � ��� �������� � ����� � ��� ����

SUNDAYOCTOBER 281-3 P.M. sponsored by the Papillion-LaVista Optimists Club

TRICK-OR-TREATING and HAYRACK RIDES

������������������������� �����

THE BEST PLACE FOR KIDS.

Visit ChildrensOmaha.org for more information on how we can help your child. For a pediatrician, family physician or pediatric specialist, call 1.800.833.3100.

11

����������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������� �����­����������� �� ����� �������������������������­������������ ������ ���������­����������������������������� ����

�������� �������������������� �����������������������������������������������­���������������������������������������������������� ���� ������������ ���������

www.peru.edu

Superheroes Aren’t Born, They’re Made

2

Momaha Magazine is a monthly publication of the Omaha World-Herald, 1314 Douglas St., Suite 600, Omaha, NE 68102. Momaha is a registered trademark, and all content is copyright 2012 by the Omaha World-Herald. All rights reserved. The opinions and perspectives published herein are those of the authors and should not be construed as those of Momaha Magazine.

editorial directorCH R I S CH R I S T EN chris.christen@owh.com 402-444-1094

creative director & designer A N A N DA SpA DT

momaha.com editorJ OSI E LOZ A josie.loza@owh.com 402-444-1075

copy editorA MY L a M A R & pAT WAT ER S

production coordinatorpAT R I CIA “ M U R pH Y ” B EN O I T

on the cover Illustration by Matt Haney

content contributors CH R I S WO L fg A N g , A MY TO KOS , A MY L a M A R , a n d C AT KO EH L ER

to advertise, contact

K R I S T I N E B U H M A N kristine.buhman@owh.com 402-444-1442

M I CH A EL A H A N E Y michaela.haney@owh.com 402-444-1489

Chat with Josie each friday from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. on momaha.comfacebook.com/josie.loza @Lozafina pinterest.com/momahaowh

momahavOLUME 3 · ISSUE 10 · OCTOBER 2012

where moms connect

FROM our MOMAHA.COM editOR

We’re years away from choosing a college – 13 years to be exact.

Right now, my preschooler is focused on pattern-building and counting past 20.

For some reason, Alejandra skips 15. To help her remember, we celebrated the forgot-ten number. We introduced the double-digit number to our lives. No pressure. Just good ol’ fashioned fun.

We decorated homemade pizzas with “15s’’ shaped from pepperoni slices. We baked cupcakes and wrote tiny “15s” on

them. We even cut out “15s” from construc-tion paper.

We hope to get just as creative about learning in this month’s issue of Momaha Magazine.

We want to introduce you to subtle ways that you can get your young child on a smart track to college.

In fact, some of the ideas in the article “6 ways to introduce your middle-schooler to college” don’t sound like college prep at all ... but they are.

Turn the page to get started.

www.OmahaSportsAcademy.com • 402.504.122211726 Stonegate Circle between Blondo, Maple on 120th, behind DC Centre

A SMILE ON EVERY FACE,SWEAT THROUGH EVERY JERSEY!

WINTER LEAGUE• January 4th - 13th• Deadline to register

is November 30

SCHOOLS OUT CLINICS• Sept. 28 & Oct. 1 • October 18 - 19• October 25-26 • November 21• December 24 • December 26-28

www.OmahaSportsAcademy.com • 402.504.122211726 Stonegate Circle between Blondo, Maple on 120th, behind DC Centre

A SMILE ON EVERY FACE,SWEAT THROUGH EVERY JERSEY!

• January 4th - 13th• Deadline to register

y

is November 30g

• Sept. 28 & Oct. 1 • October 18 - 19• October 25-26 • November 21• December 24 • December 26-28

3

������������������������ ���������������� ���

�������

��������������� �������� �

�������

4

FAMILY SUPPORT“During the day, my mom and grandmother

watch our daughter, Nellia. At home, Karl and I share the chores. He does the dishes and I do the laundry. When Nellia goes to bed at 8 p.m., I either work out, clean or read for work. When 9 p.m. rolls around, I set aside my work so that Karl and I can have some quiet time together. That “decompress hour” is very important for my mental health.”

BEING A BETTER MOM“I sometimes struggle with how much time I

spend away from Nellia. I work from 9 to 6 dur-ing the week. In the morning, Nellia and I are home alone and our routine allows for quality time at the breakfast table. I wish I could work closer to where she is during the day so I could see her at lunch.”

MY MOMMY SECRET

“I wish I could be a stay-at-home mom. But then I remember the relationship my daughter has with her great-grandmother, Inang, and Papa, and I know that if I stayed home, she would not have that.”

PERSONAL SACRIFICES“The year before I got pregnant, my hus-

band was deployed. To keep from losing my mind, I spent time on the weekends writing in coffee shops and meeting friends for wine and long conversations at Vivace and La Buvette. I hardly get to have those long conversations anymore. Nor the quiet moments with Karl.

Instead, I have Nellia. The biggest blessing I’ve received is the bond that I have with my daughter.”

BITS OF ADVICE“I keep work time, family time and ‘me’ time

separate. I really struggled when I had to go back to school and work. In July, I received my Ph.D. from the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at UNMC. It’s an ac-complishment I am very proud of. I must say, though, it is with the support of my husband and family that I get to have my career.”

MOST INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE“The most influential people I have in my life

are my parents. My mother grew up in the Phil-ippines and did not have much. She worked hard and did her best to stay out of trouble. My dad joined the Air Force after high school and received his IT training while in the military. He’s a lifetime student who earned a master’s degree a few years ago at age 56.”

MORE ABOUT MY FAMILY“My husband is a big kid. What makes me

giggle? The excitement on his face when he’s about to go on an inflatable water slide. It’s particularly funny because he’s 6-feet tall. He stands in line with little children and literally hops in sheer excitement as his turn gets closer and closer. Our daughter is a shy little sweetheart when we’re in a crowd. If it’s just family around, she’s a non-stop chatterbox.”

WHAT I NEED TO LEARN“How to teach Nellia to wait patiently and

how to discipline her. I realize some people never learn patience, but because she is exert-ing herself more I worry I might have a monster on my hands in no time. I usually take a step back and tell her to ask nicely before I give her what she wants. Sometimes it works. If she cries, I just give in. My husband sometimes has to step in to calm her down. Perhaps it is me who has to learn more patience.”

Melissa lindquist PhotograPhy.

how I do It | Kristen Johnson

How to balance work, family & personal time

Chat with Josie each Friday from 2 to 3 p.m. on momaha.com.

More at MoMaha.coM

Meet local moms at momaha’s next play date at the Omaha Children’s Museum, Oct. 23 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Bonus: Visit momaha.com for a coupon for a free admission upgrade to the new exhibit ,“Itty Bitty City,” which opens Oct. 20.

;-)

5

6

Tricky TruthBY chris wolfgang

It’s not a secret that kids begin to tell lies at a relatively early age. Juan Casas, director of

developmental psychology at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, says age 3 is about when children start to tell lies. “Or maybe they just embellish a story. That sort of outlet is probably more a positive sign of creativity.”

Toddlers are also developing what Casas refers to as “theory of mind.” It’s the ability to attribute mental states in others – to realize that others might have different beliefs and intentions than their own. So if Mom or Dad doesn’t necessarily know what I know, the child’s developing logic suggests, then they can’t tell what I’m thinking. And if they can’t read my mind then maybe I can get myself out of trouble.

Incidents of lying tend to increase as kids get older. “Some research suggests that 4-year-olds lie once every two hours,” Casas says, “and 6-year-olds as often as every 90 minutes.” But Casas is quick to point out that these statistics include “white lies”

too. “They may have even learned some pro-social behavior from their parents, like sparing someone’s feelings.”

By school-age, a child’s vocabulary is a lot larger, and he’s even better at determining what people think. Family expectations should be firmly established. “As often as we can, we want to emphasize honesty within the family,” Casas says. “If your child lies, let him know it’s not just a bad thing because it’s untrue, but it’s hurtful or damaging to others. It makes you feel bad.”

In addition to communicating that untruths aren’t good things to say, letting a child know your emotional reaction to a lie encourages empathy.

“Its better to teach kids the value of telling the truth rather than

punishing for a transgression,” Casas suggests. “Praise for honesty as much as you can. We can be so attuned to correcting inappropriate behavior, but not always attuned to reinforcing positive behavior.”

For example, when you recognize a situation where it would have been easy for your child to lie and she doesn’t, recognize that and respond positively with phrases like, “I appreciate that,” and “That makes me feel good.”

Casas cautions that parents should watch out for lying on a consistent basis. “That can be indicative of something much more serious. They’re not just lying to you the adult, but they’re lying to their friends, their siblings. They’re lying to peers. Those are areas where we need to be concerned, and it might be time to get to a specialist.”

c o m m o n s e n s e f o r c o m m o n l i e s

2- to 3-year-oldsCasas suggests that you shouldn’t feel bad that your toddler is telling lies. It’s part of growing up. Still, if Julie says the cat spilled her cereal, let her know that it makes you feel sad and disappointed when she lies.

4- to 6-year-oldsWhen your preschooler suggests that his sibling wants a cookie and he’ll gladly take it to him, it’s not a stretch to identify the reason why he’s lying. If it’s treats or even just your attention that he’s after, reinforce honesty with earning rewards. Get him to tell you that he wants the cookie.

7- to 11-year-olds“I cleaned my room, so I’m going out to play now.” A lying preteen might be trying to expand her autonomy. Casas suggests that if a child is pushing boundaries, look for other ways for him to get what he wants.

TeensFor a teen’s lies about minor infractions (think curfew and homework), make the rationale clear as to why your family has the rules that it does. Then you have a starting point for an honest discussion about whether or not it’s appropriate to change the family rules. Your teen is more likely to follow guidelines that she understands.

... when you recognize a situation where it would have been easy for your child to lie and she doesn’t, recognize that and respond positively ...

7

Foster good communicationYour child is more likely to be truthful with you if you have a great relationship. You can strengthen that relationship by being approachable, not judgmental. Talk regularly. Make a family dinner a routine part of your life. Schedule game nights, movie nights and other enjoyable activities with your children.

Lead by exampLeLying can be convenient, but resorting to dishonesty when talking to your children is always a mistake. You’ll risk presenting deceit as a normal behavior to an impressionable young person. Worse yet, your kids will have good reason to distrust you.

encourage a cuLture oF conFessionIf your child admits to wrongdoing, first be grateful for the honesty. While you must discipline him or her, the punishment shouldn’t be a deterrent for future confessions. Hitting, shaming and generally making your child feel bad will only inspire him or her to lie in the future. As punishment, instead of sending your children to their rooms – where they probably will play – you can help them reflect on how to do better next time. “Confession is not merely a clearing out of that which is wrong in us,” says Wilkes. “It is a realignment of what is best in us and an intention to live a better life.”

nip it in the budBad habits can start early and are often hard to shake, so it’s never too early to correct dishonest behavior in your child. And you can help kids avoid lying by giving them fewer opportunities to do so. For example, if you know who made the mess, don’t ask, “Did you do this?” Confront him or her directly about it instead.

use LiteratureThere are many excellent fiction and non-fiction books that deal with ethical issues and honesty. Your librarian can help you find something age-appropriate to read and discuss with kids.

Though there may be no portion of the school day devoted to it, honesty is

something children and young people must learn.

Honesty has little to do with the kind of over-sharing of thoughts and personal information sometimes seen in social networking.

“Amid the din of over-sharing, we mistake spasms of self-revelation for honesty. And in a time of constant confessional disclosures, we are losing our ability to self-reflect and be truly honest,” says Paul Wilkes, a filmmaker, religion and spirituality writer and author of “The Art of Confession,” a new book that seeks to redefine confession for a multicultural, contemporary world.

Here are ways from Wilkes to teach honesty.

WE’LL GIVE YOU SOMETHING TO RAVE ABOUT!

18101 R Plaza Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68135180th & Q ~ Located behind Walgreens (SW corner)

402.891.0018

$30 OFFANY CUT & COLORCertain restrictions apply,

Expires 11/15/12.

Check out the other great services that Rave Salon & Spa Retreat has to offer!

• Color/Color Correction• World-Class Haircuts• Perms/Relaxers• Anti-Frizz Treatment

• Hair Extensions• Facial and Body Waxing• Full Range of Esthetic Services• Customer Skin Care• Massage

HOURSMON: 10 - 5TUES: 10 - 8WED: 10 - 5

THURS: 10 - 8FRI: 10 - 5

SAT: 10 - 3SUN: CLOSED

info@ravesalon.com • www.ravesalon.com

Teaching Kids to Be Honest

8

Nobody likes a pest, especially the creepy, crawly kind. But they exist, and unfortunately, too many of us make it easy for pests to take up residence right alongside the family.

Pest Prevention BasicsWhat you need to know to keep pests out of your home

BedroomCommon Pests: Bed bugs can live for a year or more without feeding, and can withstand temperatures that range from nearly freezing to almost 113 degrees. Managing a bed bug infestation is difficult and requires professional help, which can include close inspection and monitoring and possibly removal of all infested materials.

TiPs:—Check mattresses, headboards and box springs for signs of bed bug droppings, eggs or live nymphs.—Regularly inspect backpacks for signs of bed bugs.—If you suspect a bed bug infestation, contact a licensed pest management professional for an immediate inspection.Dust mites thrive in warm, humid conditions. They are found in mattresses, furniture, toys, curtains, carpets and rugs. They can trigger asthma, cause dermatitis and transmit disease.—Cover mattresses and pillows with dust-proof, zippered covers tested for dust mites.—Frequently change bed linens. Wash bedding and stuffed animals once a week.—Vacuum areas frequently.

BaThroomCommon Pests: Spiders, silverfish.Spiders like to lurk in corners, cabinets and drawers, as well as clothing and behind curtains. If you have a persistent spider problem, it’s most likely that you also have other pests that are serving as a steady food source for the spiders. Silverfish like to chew on anything with starch or polysaccharides — paper, photos, hair, wallpaper, carpet, clothing and even dandruff.

TiPs for sPiders:—Remove webs with a broom or vacuum. Destroy any egg sacs you find. Check around windows, in corners or other out-of-the-way spots. —Check for leaking water lines under the sink and in the shower/tub area. —Supplement cleaning with proper insecticide treatment. Treat around baseboards, in cracks and crevices and other likely hiding places.

TiPs for silverfish:—Eliminate sources of water. Fix leaky faucets, and don’t let water stand in the tub or sink.—Replace or repair moldy or wet wood in the bathroom.—Reduce humidity in the bathroom by running a fan or opening a window while you take a shower.

KiTChen Common Pests: Ants, roaches, rodents.Insects and rodents look for food anywhere they can find it — cabinets, pantries, floorboards, areas where pet food is stored. These pests contaminate food and carry disease.

TiPs:—Maintain clean, clutter-free spaces. —Wipe up spills and pick up crumbs immediately.—Keep stove vents and drip pans clean.—Store food in air-tight and pest-proof containers, or in the refrigerator or freezer. —Don’t leave your pet’s food and water dishes out overnight. —Check for water leaks under the sink and refrigerator. —Keep trash and recycling areas clean, and rinse out food containers and beverage cans before disposing of them.—Baits, sprays and traps are effective ways to manage kitchen pests.

PesTs aT sChoolCommon Pests: Bed bugs, cockroaches, spiders and yellow jackets.

TiPs:—Clean out your child’s backpack and other bags every day to avoid transporting pests to and from school.—Encourage your kids to learn to identify potentially harmful pests like stinging insects so they know when to tell an adult and how to avoid being stung.—Talk to your school about monitoring for pests like cockroaches, which are known allergens and can trigger asthma attacks.—Keep an eye out for pests like flies or mice, which can spread diseases or contaminate food in the cafeteria.

School can be a playground for pests. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends that schools use integrated pest management (IPM) to deal with pest problems. School IPM programs use common sense strategies that reduce sources of food, water and shelter for pests. They also use pesticides judiciously and carefully when necessary to eliminate and manage potentially harmful pest infestations.

Room By RoomWhile pests can be in any part of your home, here are some of the more common rooms you’ll find them in and what you can do to keep them out.

9

Now we have even more space for the latest styles in tights, leotards, dance shoes, gifts and more. Stop in to our new place, where our friendly and

knowledgeable staff will help you dress to dance.

13345999 W. Centeer Rd. Omaha, NE 68144(Soouthweest corner of 132nd & Center)

DANCE OVER TO OUR GREAT

NEW LOCATIONNEW LOCATIONNN

402.334.1225 bobbysdancewear.com

������������������������������������

�������������� ���������

����� �� ������������������������������

��������������������������������

��� ��������� ���� �������������������������

SIGN UP FOR FALL SWIM LESSONS NOW!

4 0 2 . 9 3 3 . 6 2 5 1

10

BY AmY Tokos

The college search is an opportunity for teens to exert their independence. But the quest can quickly lead to information overload – and sluggish progress. You can boost your child’s efficiency by giving him a way to stay organized throughout the application process, and win points with colleges for self-sufficiency.

get organized: college edition

Plan of AttackWell-informed college choices start with well-organized brochures

Brochures And pAperwork

Brochures worth keeping can be tucked into an accordion file or a desktop file box. Divide the brochures by school or region. At the end of your child’s junior year, sort through the contents and decide which colleges interest you most. Re-file information pertaining to those colleges.

spreAdsheeTs

Spreadsheets are a great way to manage information by categories.

Start by creating columns according to your teen’s criteria for the perfect college. Under each item, enter information for each college being considered. Create columns for location; distance from home; type; size; tour date; ACT code; SAT Code; school website; sports opportunities; scholarships available and anything else important to you and your child. As you eliminate schools, move the data on each to the bottom of the spreadsheet, but keep all the information. You never know when a school may

reenter the picture. Once you know which schools you want to apply to, create a second spreadsheet with steps and deadlines: admissions application, test scores, scholarship applications, teacher recommendations, etc.

checklisTs

Once your child has been accepted to a school, create a checklist of things to do before classes start. For example, note registration deadlines and tuition payment deadlines.

FAMILY FEATURES

11

Physician Guided Weight LossNow available in our community, Modern Medicine offers a new medical weight loss program that’s

prescription-based, doctor-guided and affordable. With multiple treatments available, you can start losing weight safely and effi ciently. The best part about this program is the ongoing support you receive from our professional medical staff.

Our weight loss programs are affordable, simple and based on individual nutrition, exercise and medicinal treatment solutions – all designed just for you, to help you reach your goals.

Programs Supported:•Phentermine Program • HCG (Appetite Suppressants)

•B12 Injections •Lipotropic InjectionsWellness Testing LabBefore starting any of our weight loss programs, clients must complete an initial exam ($69)

which includes measurements for height, weight, blood pressure, pulse, BMI & fat %, lab work and resting EKG.Once the initial exam is complete, you will have an appointment with our physician. He will go over

the health history you provide and the results of the tests performed during the initial exam. At that point, if you are approved for one of our weight loss programs, we will go ahead and get started!

AESTHETIC SERVICES•Microdermabrasion •Waxing •Facials •Chemical Peels

7632 Dodge St • Omaha 402-315-3600

www.midwestmodernmedicine.comCall today & receive $20 off your next service!

y, g p gNow available in our community, MModern Medicine offers a new medical weight loss program that’sprescription-based, doctor-guided andd affordable. With multiple treatments available, you can startlosing weight safely and effi ciently. Thhe best part about this program is the ongoing support youreceive from our professional medical staff.

Our weight loss programs are afforddable, simple and based on individual nutrition, exercise and medicinal treatment solutions – alll designed just for you, to help you reach your goals.

Programs Supported:•Phentermine Program • HCG

(Appetite Suppressants)gg

•B12 Injections •LLipotropic InjectionsWellness Testing LabBefore starting any of our weight loss programs, clients must complete an initial exam ($69)

which includes measurements for heigght, weight, blood pressure, pulse, BMI & fat %, lab work and resting EKG.Once the initial exam is complete, yoou will have an appointment with our physician. He will go over

the health history you provide and thee results of the tests performed during the initial exam. At thatpoint, if you are approved for one of our weight loss programs, we will go ahead and get started!

AESTHETIC SERVICCES•Microdermabrasion •WWaxing •Facials •Chemical Peels

7632 Dodge St • Omaha402-315-3600

www.midwestmodernmedicine.comCall today & receive $$ your next service!

$75OFF

Chiropractic: It’s A Family A� airBack pain may be the most common reason patients seek the expertise of a chiropractor, but chiropractic techniques accomplish far more! Chiropractic care is bene� cial at all stages of life, and at Natural Life Chiropractic, we believe that the entire family needs to be healthy.

Chiropractic Care • Spinal Decompression • Massage Therapy

14440 F Street, Suite 109Omaha, NE 68137Dr. Monte Hinze, D.C.www.OmahaNaturalLife.com402.505.4148

New PatientExam & X-Rays

Valid until 12/31/2012

Infant Toddler & Preschool Care!

Millard Childcare and Preschool

5225 S. 170th St (170th & Q) • 402-896-5158

Now enrolling all agesOpen Monday – Friday • 6:30 am – 6:00 pm

www.MillardChildCare.com

Now off ering secured internet viewing!

&&

Millard ChildcareMillard Childcareand Preschooland Preschool

5225 S. 170th St (170th & Q) • 402-896-5158402-896-5158

Now enrolling all agesOpen Monday – Friday • 6:30 am – 6:00 pm

www.MillardChildCare.comi i

Now off eringsecured internetviewing!

How Four StepS Can Help StudentS

KnowHow2GO is a national college access program that provides eighth-, ninth- and 10th-grade students with four steps they can follow to help make college a reality. Clip these tips for the teen in your household.

Be a pain – in a good way. Ask adults to help guide you to college, and keep asking until you find someone who will.

push yourself. Take the tough courses in high school that will prepare you for college – and get involved in extracurricular activities.

Find the right fit. Explore your career interests and then research colleges that fit those interests.

put your hands on some cash. Money is available to help you pay for college, but you have to apply!

More info: For more resources to help guide middle and high school students to college, visit EducationQuest.org

cat koehler

Cat Koeler is married and has two children. She works full-time. Read her column Mondays on momaha.com.

Boundaries, good habits keep school-children focused

Few words strike more fear into the hearts of school kids

quite like the threat of an infraction landing on his or her “permanent record.”

The day before my 9-year-old daughter began fourth grade, she burst into tears distressed that her naughtiness would never be expunged and college would somehow be jeopardized. How, I wondered, could I use this as a motivational opportunity?

In the next few weeks, my husband and I set out to develop ways to help our daughter take responsibility and build good habits. I’m sure tweaks will be necessary, but so far our approach has eliminated worry and put our daughter back in control.

- Remind your child and yourself that homework is the child’s responsibility. My husband and I ask about homework assignments and assist when necessary, but we do not hunt down papers and assignments and assure their completion.

- Designate a specific area in the home for homework, and help your child create a study routine. The kitchen table works well for us; once the plates are cleared, the homework begins.

- Help your child set attainable goals and determine what steps need to be accomplished to reach them. I put words of encouragement and reminders on a white board and celebrate little victories along the way.

- Be clear on the expectations and consequences you have for your child regarding not only schoolwork, but behavior as well. Our daughter knows that if she misses class time because of her behavior, she will no longer be allowed to participate in orchestra.

I’m sure we haven’t seen the last of the tears, but hopefully the next ones shed will be about something a little less daunting. And now that I think about it, it’s entirely possible that permanent records are nothing more than an urban legend. After all, I’ve never seen mine. Maybe I won’t let her know that!

matt haney/the world-herald

6 Ways to Introduce Your Middle-Schooler to College

Don’t get caught up on your child’s age.You can get him on the track for college now

- even if he’s in middle school. We’re not saying that you need to take a college tour just yet. But there are subtle ways to encourage learning and creativity in your household and to introduce higher education in the process.

1. Notice what your children enjoy doing, and help them do more of it. If your child enjoys baking, prepare an entry for the county fair. Arrange for the singer in your family to audition for a local choir or musical. Get involved.

2. Make sure your child knows that Bs are fine in middle school and that having fun is an important part of education. An overachiever should be told, “You don’t need to do three different extracurricular activities in middle school to get into college.” A less-motivated

child needs to hear, “Yes, you can go to college, but first that means passing your courses in middle school.”

3. Encourage your eighth-grader to take Algebra I and other high school-level courses. Many colleges apply these courses to high school grade point averages even though they are taken in middle school.

4. Teach your child a few household basics and assign regular chores to him. Knowing how to do laundry, cook a few simple meals and clean the bathroom will make him more self-sufficient in college.

5. Encourage your child to learn a foreign language. Most middle schools do not require a foreign language, but nearly all offer classes in Spanish or French.

6. Encourage reading for pleasure. The best test-takers are avid readers.

How Four StepS Can Help StudentS

KnowHow2GO is a national college access program that provides eighth-, ninth- and 10th-grade students with four steps they can follow to help make college a reality. Clip these tips for the teen in your household.

Be a pain – in a good way. Ask adults to help guide you to college, and keep asking until you find someone who will.

push yourself. Take the tough courses in high school that will prepare you for college – and get involved in extracurricular activities.

Find the right fit. Explore your career interests and then research colleges that fit those interests.

put your hands on some cash. Money is available to help you pay for college, but you have to apply!

More info: For more resources to help guide middle and high school students to college, visit EducationQuest.org

cat koehler

Cat Koeler is married and has two children. She works full-time. Read her column Mondays on momaha.com.

Boundaries, good habits keep school-children focused

Few words strike more fear into the hearts of school kids

quite like the threat of an infraction landing on his or her “permanent record.”

The day before my 9-year-old daughter began fourth grade, she burst into tears distressed that her naughtiness would never be expunged and college would somehow be jeopardized. How, I wondered, could I use this as a motivational opportunity?

In the next few weeks, my husband and I set out to develop ways to help our daughter take responsibility and build good habits. I’m sure tweaks will be necessary, but so far our approach has eliminated worry and put our daughter back in control.

- Remind your child and yourself that homework is the child’s responsibility. My husband and I ask about homework assignments and assist when necessary, but we do not hunt down papers and assignments and assure their completion.

- Designate a specific area in the home for homework, and help your child create a study routine. The kitchen table works well for us; once the plates are cleared, the homework begins.

- Help your child set attainable goals and determine what steps need to be accomplished to reach them. I put words of encouragement and reminders on a white board and celebrate little victories along the way.

- Be clear on the expectations and consequences you have for your child regarding not only schoolwork, but behavior as well. Our daughter knows that if she misses class time because of her behavior, she will no longer be allowed to participate in orchestra.

I’m sure we haven’t seen the last of the tears, but hopefully the next ones shed will be about something a little less daunting. And now that I think about it, it’s entirely possible that permanent records are nothing more than an urban legend. After all, I’ve never seen mine. Maybe I won’t let her know that!

matt haney/the world-herald

6 Ways to Introduce Your Middle-Schooler to College

Don’t get caught up on your child’s age.You can get him on the track for college now

- even if he’s in middle school. We’re not saying that you need to take a college tour just yet. But there are subtle ways to encourage learning and creativity in your household and to introduce higher education in the process.

1. Notice what your children enjoy doing, and help them do more of it. If your child enjoys baking, prepare an entry for the county fair. Arrange for the singer in your family to audition for a local choir or musical. Get involved.

2. Make sure your child knows that Bs are fine in middle school and that having fun is an important part of education. An overachiever should be told, “You don’t need to do three different extracurricular activities in middle school to get into college.” A less-motivated

child needs to hear, “Yes, you can go to college, but first that means passing your courses in middle school.”

3. Encourage your eighth-grader to take Algebra I and other high school-level courses. Many colleges apply these courses to high school grade point averages even though they are taken in middle school.

4. Teach your child a few household basics and assign regular chores to him. Knowing how to do laundry, cook a few simple meals and clean the bathroom will make him more self-sufficient in college.

5. Encourage your child to learn a foreign language. Most middle schools do not require a foreign language, but nearly all offer classes in Spanish or French.

6. Encourage reading for pleasure. The best test-takers are avid readers.

14

life lessons

It’s never too early – or too late – to help your child discover the joy of reading. Reading aloud to your child helps build important

vocabulary and language skills that last a lifetime.

Despite the considerable evidence of the relationship between reading regularly to a child and that child’s later reading development, six out of 10 babies and five out of 10 toddlers are not regularly read to by parents or other family members.

The Reading Is Fundamental organization and the Budding

Be A Reader campaign offer scores of activities, tips and resources for raising readers of every age.

Hard-working Habits

COURTESY OF FamilY FEaTURES

Kids learn their habits from you, their parents. Make sure you build in time for healthy habits.

• Start reading to your children when they are very young. Make this time together special without everyday distractions. Continue reading aloud to children even after they’re reading on their own.• Choose books carefully and ask your kids what they like and don’t like. Your children’s input will help you guide them to good books.

• Encourage your child to read aloud to younger brothers, sisters, family members and friends.• Make a commitment to read aloud at least once a day. Even 15 minutes of daily reading can make a big difference in your child’s reading comprehension and literacy development.• Set a good example by reading frequently and sharing your enthusiasm for reading. Talk about the books you read and your favorite authors.

• Set up a home library. A special shelf with a few books is a great start to building a book collection that your child will treasure for years.• Visit your local library, bookstores, yard sales and thrift stores to find good books to read together. Not sure what book is right for your child’s age or reading level? The American Library Association and the Library of Congress publish lists of recommended books to guide parents in making selections.

Tips for easy ways to inspire young readers

15

BIRTHDAY PARTY

2 8 5 0 0 W P A R K H W Y A S H L A N D , N E 6 8 0 0 3L A N D , N E 6 8 0 0 3H W Y A S H

At the indoor playground, call for details 402.944.2523 Ext. 7122

E U G E N E T . M A H O N E Y S T A T E P A R K

FUN FOR

E U G E N E T . M AA H O N E Y S T A T E P A R K

THE ENTIRE FAMILY!

www.OutdoorNebraska.org

Mahoney Grill

Open Daily

Enjoy an indoor theater with live performances, horseback trail rides, arts and cra� s, miniature

golf, driving range, fall camping and hiking, indoor ac� vity center and much more!!

(Park Entry Permit Required) (weather-permi� ng)

16

life lessons

Checklist for Success

Organizational skills can either help your child get ahead or hold hom or her back. There are some very bright kids who can do their homework, but just

can’t get it turned in on time. If you take a few steps during elementary and secondary school, you can be confident when your kids leave for college that they can take care of themselves and their homework.

MiniMize DistractionsA huge obstacle to doing homework is distractions. One

of the best things you can do for your family is to set a no TV/electronics time. The time should, at a minimum, exceed the normal homework time by about 30 minutes. You can try a “power hour,” which is 50 minutes of no phone, TV or electronics, with a 10-minute break during which kids can text, chat with friends and use their electronics. This works especially well for high school students who seem to do homework all evening.

HoMework spaceA good space is crucial. Some kids like to work at the

kitchen table, while others prefer to work on the floor of their bedroom. No matter where they settle down to study, having supplies nearby will help keep students focused. A plastic caddy is a great tool for school supplies. Kids just pull it out when they are doing homework and put it away when they are finished.

write it DownKids think they can remember all that they need to do, but

when they rely on their memories things often fall through the cracks. Teach them how to use an assignment notebook.

project ManageMentAs kids enter the upper grades, they will get assignments

that require several steps over a period of time. Show your child how to put deadlines in their assignment notebook and work their way back by adding project milestones to their calendar. This makes a project more manageable and less overwhelming. Plus, it helps them manage their time so they don’t cram the project into one evening.

clean-out routine Lots of kids use their backpack as a file cabinet instead of

a tool to transport items. Encourage them to clean out their backpacks monthly, if not weekly. If they have study materials they need to keep, set up a small file box in their bedroom with a hanging file for each class. Help your child set guidelines on what goes into the files. It’s best if the files contain only active items like project outlines or study materials needed for a test.

get HelpIf your child is really struggling with organization, get

some outside help. Young people sometimes find it easier to swallow organization tips provided by a school counselor, a tutor or a professional organizer. Teaching them basic organization skills now will help set them up for success in higher grades.

Help for teaching kids money management

High school graduates in states that mandate financial education have higher savings rates and a greater net worth than graduates from states without financial education, U.S. Department of the

Treasury research shows.As a result of the growing awareness about the importance of financial

education, more resources are becoming available to teachers and parents. At home, parents can help reinforce what children learn about money. Unfortunately, parents are often more comfortable talking about sex, drugs and alcohol than they are about money – usually because parents do not trust their own financial acumen. Parents can start helping ensure that their children are financially savvy by talking to their kids about money using a few simple steps from PathwaytoFinancialSuccess.org:

ara

• Use everyday experiences to talk about money. With tax season around the corner, talk to kids about the process, or engage them in the discussion of purchasing a large item and weighing the “wants” versus “needs” related to the purchase.• Talk to your kids about saving for a special purchase, and set small, manageable goals for them

to reach.• Be honest about your financial situation or poor financial decisions you have made in the past, and then talk to your kids about how you could have handled the situation differently. • Make it fun by playing online games that teach common lessons on budgeting and saving.

17

� �� �� �� � ��� ��������� ��� � �� ������� ��� �������� �������������� ���������� ������� ��� ���� ������� ���������� ����������� ��� �������� ������� ���� ����� ������ ��� ��� �������� ����� ����� ��� �������

������������ � �������������

���� ���������� ��������� ������������ ��� ���� �

*Expires 10-31-12. New students only.

8610 Brentwood Drive, #7, LaVista 402-592-6722ADCdance.com | adcboss@cox.net | Jennifer Kinsey, owner

TapBallet

JazzHip-Hop

Tumbling

Caring teachers in a Fun, Positive Learning EnvironmentTop Quality Dance InstructionState-of-the-Art Facility3 Large Studios at 1 location

Age Appropriate Classes, Choreography & CostumesServing the Papillion/LaVista area since 1998Boys • Girls • Ages 2 to Adults

FREE REGISTRATION FOR SUMMER & FALL PROGRAMS 2012/13*

16TH

SEASON

The Interactive Exhibition

September 29, 2012 - January 6, 2013

An educational, fun and exciting exhibit featuring the characters of the movie Robots.

Take an adventure through this mechanical world. See how robots can better our lives

today and in the future.

Sponsored locally by: Robert H. Storz Foundation

U.S. BankEmbassey Suites

Omaha–La Vista/Hotel & Conference CenterJetton Charitable Fund

Ellison Technologies Automation

In partnership with UNO, UNL, UNMC and NASA Nebraska Space Grant

TM & © 2005 FOX

This exhibition was produced by GES under license by Twentieth Century Fox.

ROBOTSTM characters, names, and all related indicia are trademarks of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation ©2012. Global Experience Specialists is an authorized licensee.

www.sasmuseum.com

28210 West Park Hwy, Ashland, NE 68003I-80 Exit 426

18

fun food

Be the "ghostess with the mostess" this Halloween, and throw a wickedly wonderful celebration. The entertaining experts from the Wilton

Test Kitchen know all the tricks and offer plenty of treats for hosting a bone-chilling blast that will have friends and family shrieking with delight.

Start by scaring up some fun with an array of graveyard goodies. Tombstone and monster-shaped sandwich cookies paired with ghostly

graveyard cookies set an eerie scene. Add fang-tastic monster-faced popcorn balls and a parade of monster pretzels — a breeze to make using a Halloween candy kit. Pour melted candy into monster molds, insert pretzel rods and refrigerate until set. They are the perfect hand-heldtreats for kids, and they look great on display.

There’s no bones about it: a Spooktacular skeleton cake will make a boo-tiful Halloween centerpiece. Using a skeleton casket pan

makes this impressive dessert — filled with fall flavors like cinnamon and apples — easy to achieve. Simply decorate with icing and watch as your skeleton comes back from the grave.

For added fright, surround the coffin with Spooky Pop Cupcakes — swirled with brightly colored icing and things that go bump in the night. Just be sure to pair sweets with a "bewitching" beverage and you’ll be caught in a web of friends all evening long.

Ghostly Graveyard CookiesEach cookie serves 1Roll-out cookie dough (recipe available at wilton.com)Buttercream icing (recipe available at wilton.com)Leaf green, black and brown icing colors

Scare Up Some Fun with a Graveyard Bash

Prepare and roll out cookie dough following recipe instructions. Cut cookies using the Wilton Graveyard Cookie Cutter Set. Bake and cool. Using icing colors, tint buttercream. Ice all cookies using a spatula. Pipe the outline of the tree with tip No. 22 brown buttercream icing. Tint coconut flakes green using icing; sprinkle over base cookie. Attach all cookies to base cookies with icing.

19

11001 S.48th St, Papillion, NEwww.BellevueBerryFarm.com • 402-331-5500

OPEN DAILY

OPEN DAILYSEPT 23 TO OCT 31

Haunted hayrack rides, haunted walk, life-size pirate ship, pirate caves, zip lines,

playground area, carnival area & MUCH MUCH MORE!

$1OFF$1OFFBring in this ad!

Valid Sunday-Thursday. Not valid with any other offer. Expires Oct 31, 2012

� �

11001 S.48th St, Papillion, NEwww.BellevueBerryFarm.com • 402-331-5500

OPEN DAILY

OPENDAILYSEPT 23TO OCT 31

Haunted hayrack rides,hhaauunntteedd wwaallkk, lliiffee--ssiizzee ppiirraatteeship, pirate caves, zip lines,

pllaygroundd area, carniivall area& MUCH MUCH MORE!

Bring in this ad!

Valid Sunday-Thursday. Not valid with any other offer. Expires Oct 31, 2012

� �

7608 Gertrude Street La Vista NE 68128

402-884-4466www.curiouschildmontessori.com

NOW ENROLLING FORFALL PROGRAMS &

PRESCHOOL

18 MONTHS - 10 YEAR OLDS

Enroll now SPACE IS LIMITED!

The Curious ChildMontessori Preschool

Omaha ’s Newe s t Mon t e s s o r i P r e s c h o o l

PoPcorn Ball Monsters Each serves 11 jar (about 7 ounces) marshmallow crème Violet and orange icing colors4 cups popped popcorn, dividedWhite candy melts, melted following package instructionsLarge candy eyeballs Animal and People Faces Sprinkle setsCandy corn and jumbo confetti sprinkles Green and black candy stringsSpray Dimensions Multi-Cavity Mini Pumpkin Pan cavities with vegetable pan spray. In large microwave-safe bowl, microwave marshmallow crème 1 minute at 50% power. Remove bowl from microwave and divide marshmallow crème in half; stir icing color into each half (tint slightly darker than how you want your finished treat to look). Stir 2 cups popped popcorn into each marshmallow mixture mixing until evenly coated. Press popcorn treat mixture in bottom cavities only of pumpkin pan to 1 1/2 inches deep; reserve some unmolded popcorn. Let set; unmold.Attach 2 popcorn ball halves together on one edge, using unmolded popcorn to prop opposite edge open. Using melted candy, attach candy eyeballs and sprinkles, and candy corn teeth and jumbo confetti nose. Attach candy strings for hair.

Peanut Butter 3D sanDwich cookiesMakes about 1 dozen sandwich cookies 3/4 cup solid vegetable shortening 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter 1/2 cup firmly-packed light brown sugar 1/3 cup granulated sugar 1 egg 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract1 1/2 cups all-purpose flourButtercream icing Kelly Green, orange icing colorPreheat oven to 320 degrees. Spray Wilton 3D Sandwich Pan with vegetable pan spray.

In large bowl, beat shortening and peanut butter with electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add brown sugar and granulated sugar; mix well. Add egg and vanilla, mixing until smooth. Add flour; mix well. Press dough into pan cavities, filling 2/3 full.

Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from pan to cooling grid; cool completely.

Meanwhile, tint portions of icing green and orange. To assemble cookies, spread icing on half of the cookies; sandwich with second cookie. Pipe details with icing.

Monsters on ParaDe PretzelsEach pretzel serves 1Halloween candy kit for pretzels Pretzel RodsMelt candy melts candy following package instructions. Mold pretzels following package instructions. Refrigerate until set, about 15 minutes. Remove from mold.

20

By Amy LamAr

Sandwich, chips, fruit dessert. Sandwich, chips, fruit dessert. Is your child’s school lunch menu sounding like a broken record? Inject some fun and creativity into sandwiches with cookie-cutter bread shapes. Make a butterfly one day, a flower or zoo animal the

next. You can use cookie cutters for raw vegetables and fruit, too. Swap out bread slices for a tortilla. Wraps always seem to look fancier than sandwiches – even when they have the same ingredients inside. Pack your child’s lunch in a cool container. Japanese-style bento boxes are ideal for kids who don’t like their foods to touch.

healthy recipes

Perfect Presentation

Market Pantry SuShi-Style turkey ‘n’ CheeSe

2 slices honey whole-wheat bread2 tablespoons cream cheese spreadFresh spinach leaves, stems removed2 slices oven-roasted turkey deli slices1 slice colby cheese, cut into 4 stripsLow-fat Ranch dressing

Cut crusts off bread; discard. Roll bread with rolling pin or press to flatten slightly. Spread each piece of bread to edges with cream cheese. Arrange spinach leaves on cream cheese, leaving about ¾-inch cream cheese at one end of each uncovered. Arrange uncovered edges away from you.

Roll up each slice of turkey. At ends closest to you, stack 2 cheese strips and 1 roll of turkey. Roll up tightly, firmly pressing ends to hold closed. Cut each roll into thirds. Place on cut sides in sandwich box, packing snugly to ensure sandwiches stay rolled. Cover; store chilled. Serve with cup of Ranch dressing for dipping, if desired. Makes one.

21

There’s Never an Offseasonea

MEMBERSHIPS SMALL GROUP LESSONSTUNNEL RENTALS BIRTHDAY PARTIES

INDIVIDUAL LESSONS TEAM PRACTICES

FROZEN ROPES 9575 S 140th St Omaha, NE 68138

www.frozenropesnebraska.comomaha@frozenropes.com

FRO

www.frozenropesnebraska.comOZEN ROPES 9575 S 140th St Omaha, NE 68138

www.frozenropesnebraska.com

Mention this ad and RECEIVE 15% OFF

MORE THAN JUST A BATTING CAGE

Pizza WraPs1 8-ounce package sliced pepperoni4 8-inch flour tortillas, at room temperature½ cup chopped tomatoes¼ cup each chopped sweet onion, chopped fresh mushrooms and chopped ripe olives¼ cup chopped green pepper, optional1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Arrange pepperoni off-center on each tortilla. Top with remaining ingredients. Fold and roll tortilla, securing with toothpick. Makes four wraps.

Nutty Berry trail Mix1 15-ounce can mixed nuts2 cups semisweet chocolate chips1 9-ounce package raisins1 6-ounce package chopped dried pineapple1 5.85-ounce jar sunflower kernels1 5-ounce package dried cranberries

In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Mix well. Store in an airtight container. Makes 10 cups.

BeNto Box PB & JFreeze-dried cinnamon apple and banana slicesPeanut butterStrawberry preservesOrganic raisinsWhole-grain crackers Arrange ingredients in individual compartments of bento box or similar divided container. Makes one.

Girlfriend Getaway Recharge and play

Shopping, Art Garden and Fun

Private Parties

Lunches by Reservation Fri &+ Sat

Parties for Little Chicks too

Art Chicks127 Main Louisville NE

louisvilleartchicks.com402-234-2669

22

Students’ academic achieve-ment and their health are directly related, according to

the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Use these tips to teach new healthy habits that can become a way of life for the whole family.

Germ-Free HandsOne of the most significant – and simple – health habits is washing hands. Kidshealth.org calls hand washing the first line of defense against germs.

To help youngsters learn the habit, enforce rules for the entire family. Insist on washing hands before every meal, after using the bathroom, after handling pets, after cleaning chores, after playing out-side and of course, after blowing noses or sneezing and coughing. Kid-friendly soap dispensers are both fun and help inspire little ones to participate.

Food as FuelMornings may be hectic, but avoid the temptation to take shortcuts on breakfast. Kids need fuel to power through the day. Making breakfast part of the daily routine also is important for weight management. A nutritious morning meal helps fire up the metabolism and prevents overeating later in the day.

Select foods that contain whole grains, fiber and protein with little added sugar. These foods improve attention span, concentration and memory.

sound slumberToo little sleep translates into irrita-bility and other behavior problems, as well as difficulty paying attention in class. While the specific needs of each child will vary to some degree, school-age children and preteens should get between 10 hours and 12 hours of sleep each night.

Implementing a consistent bedtime, especially on school nights, can help ensure that your child’s sleep needs are consistently met. Build in time for children to unwind before bed.balanced Immune system

Believe it or not, 70 percent of your immune system is in your digestive tract. The immune cells in the digestive tract share space with more than 500 species of naturally occurring bacteria. Keeping these bacteria in balance is what’s important to digestive and immune system health. Taking a daily probi-otic helps.

Probiotics are “friendly” bacteria that help balance the digestive sys-tem. Yogurt is a common source, but many varieties contain a sig-nificant amount of sugar. Look for products that have fewer calories and little or no sugar.

health

Sharpen Up Good Health Habits

courtesy of Getty ImaGes

The connections in brain circuitry can be enhanced through the environments and activities a child is ex-posed to and participates in, as well as the nutrients a child consumes.1. relax the right way

Teaching children early on the benefit of setting goals, working toward those goals, and giving their brain and body time to relax are important life skills. When it's time to relax, skip the TV and take a walk, read a book or draw. Deep breath-ing exercises also are an excellent practice for both adults and children.2. eat brain food

Omega-3 essential fatty acids are critical to a child's brain development. While fish, nuts and sea-weed are good omega-3 sources, kids typically don't gobble down these foods. Consider a purified, molecularly distilled fish oil supplements that is manufactured with kids in mind.

3. Happy brains are hydrated brains

Staying hydrated is im-portant for growing brains and bodies. Water can improve energy, increase mental and physical per-formance, remove toxins and waste from the body, and keep skin healthy and glowing. To estimate how many ounces of water your child should drink daily, divide his or her weight in half and aim for that number of ounces per day.

tHree Ways to boost braIn PoWer

23

Jump into the school year at Defy Gravity!

$3 OFFA 60 MINUTE JUMP! ISN’T THAT SWEET? *WITH THIS AD. * GOOD FOR ONE PERSON ONLY

EXPIRES 12/1/12

AI*W

402.934.3394 www.DefyGravityUSA.com 10421 PORTAL RD. LA VISTA, NE 68128LOCATED SOUTH OF 108TH AND GILES

INDOOR TRAMPOLINE PARK.

N E B R A S K A ’ S 5 2 9 C O L L E G E S A V I N G S P L A N

Highest 5-Cap Rating for both Residents and Non-Residentsby savingforcollege.com

Best 529 College Savings Planfor Fund Selectionby Kiplinger’s Personal Finance

Recognized by national experts. Praised by Mom and Dad.Learn why national experts think so highly of the NEST Plan. Visit NEST529.com/momaha or call 877-914-4838. Learn more and begin saving for your child’s future today.

An investor should consider the Plans’ investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses before investing. The Program Disclosure Statement, at www.NEST529Direct.com or www.NEST529Advisor.com, which contains more information, should be read carefully before investing.Investors should consider before investing whether their or their benefi ciary’s home state offers any state tax or other benefi ts that are only available for investments in such state’s qualifi ed tuition program and should consult their tax advisor, attorney and/or other advisor regarding their specifi c legal, investment or tax situation.Participation in the Plan does not guarantee that contributions and the investment return on contributions, if any, will be adequate to cover tuition and other higher education expenses, or that a benefi ciary will be admitted to or permitted to continue to attend an eligible educational institution.Except for the Bank Savings Individual Investment Option, investments in the NEST Direct and NEST Advisor Plans are not guaranteed or insured by the FDIC or any other government agency and are not deposits or other obligations of any depository institution. Investments are not guaranteed or insured by the State of Nebraska, the Nebraska State Treasurer, the Nebraska Investment Council, or First National Bank of Omaha or its authorized agents or their affi liates, and are subject to investment risks, including loss of the principal amount invested. FDIC insurance is provided for the Bank Savings Individual Investment Option up to the maximum amount set by federal law, currently $250,000.

©2012 First National Bank of Omaha

Trustee Program Manager

24

This Neighborhood is Really Haunted

Adults and trick-or-treaters alike walking along 33rd Street in the Hanscom Park neighborhood love the make-believe cemetery in Gretchen and Keith Engelkamp’s front yard (pic-

tured right). “Keith makes it all out of wood,” Gretchen says. “We each have our own tombstone.” The tradition started 18 years ago with their three children, now adults, and has multiplied as their kids have married and started families of their own. “It was the neighborhood that got us so into Halloween,” Gretchen says. “When we first moved here 24 years ago, it was like, ‘Whoa!’ We were throwing our own kids’ candy into the trick-or-treat bags!” In addition to the tombstones, a pot of dry ice on the front porch serves as a festive witch’s brew. Kids who come to the door are invited to drop rubber eyeballs, fingers and spiders into the brew. They give the pot a stir and then get a treat.

mike w

hye

10-Acre Corn Maze!- Featuring Flashlight & Haunted Maze Nights!

Hay Rack Rides • Nerf Gun War Zones • Face PaintingBounce Castle • And much, much more!

Hours: Monday-Thursday 10-3, Friday and Saturday 10-10 and Sunday 10-7Group Rates and Birthday Parties Available

www.skinnybonespumpkinpatch.com | 402-426-2295 Conveniently located just 8 miles north from Interstate 680 toward Blair!

Come celebrate our 5th Anniversary with us!

����������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������� �����­����������� �� ����� �������������������������­������������ ������ ���������­����������������������������� ����

�������� �������������������� �����������������������������������������������­���������������������������������������������������� ���� ������������ ���������

www.peru.edu

Superheroes Aren’t Born, They’re Made

Buy PopcornSeptember 29 - October 27

www.mac-bsa.org/BuyPopcorn

plus Money

management for every age

momaha.com volume 3 · issue 10 october 2012

Get a jump on college

lyinG: where to draw the line with honestyHighway 370 & 72nd Street, Papillion 402.537.0046

Mon-Sat 10-9, Sun 12-6 ShadowLakeShopping.com

More than 70 stores, services and restaurants

TOBER 1110:30 AM

Halloween Fro-Yo PartyYYOrange Leaf Yogurt

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 810:30 AM

Puppet Personalities ShowFirst National Bank

������� � �������� � �������� ������� � ���� � �������� ����� � �� ��� �����

�������� ����� ���������� � ��� �� � ����� � ������ ���� � �������� � ��������

������ �������� � ������ � ������ ������� � ��� �������� � ����� � ��� ����

SUNDAYOCTOBER 281-3 P.M. sponsored by the Papillion-LaVista Optimists Club

TRICK-OR-TREATING and HAYRACK RIDES