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parenting
Etiquette Schmetiquette
Reinforcing the Magic Word and a Few Others
Juggling the Holiday Frenzy
Secret Savings Unwrapped
Celebrating Around the World
Five Steps to a Sitter
Resolute Resolutions
December/January 2012 Free! Volume 1Issue 4
8243_Dec-January.pdf A 11/7/11 4:22 PM
A Hair A Head
Abbadent Family and Cosmetic Dentistry
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Cookin Something Up
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Eagle Country Market
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Anyone with children
in their lives cant help
but smile at a childs
excitement as Santas
big day approaches.
That excitement also
means you are likely stressing over
making sure the most sought-after
gifts magically appear under your tree.
My daughter Sydney is only four, so,
despite her asking for everything she
sees advertised on TV, I hope I have
one more year of witnessing her
pure excitement while ripping open
whatever packages appear under the
tree, even though it wont be every
item advertised. She has asked for
some things I thought wouldnt be
requested for a few more years, such
as a Nintendo DS

. Someone once
told me that the gifts get bigger
and more expensive as the kids get
older. I want to add noisier because
the top two things on her list are
a guitar and drums. I am counting
on Santas wisdom to make the
choice.
The squeals of delight on that special
morning make great memories, but
this is also the season to teach our
children to appreciate how much
they have. Last year we started a
tradition in our home of picking an
angel off a charity organizations
tree for a child the same age as
Sydney. This year she should
be able to help a bit more with
shopping for that gift and better
understand its important. Her
school also had a great idea:
having a baby shower for Jesus.
The children brought in baby
items that were donated to a local
shelter.
At parenting: TODAY & TOMORROW
we hope to help you with
suggestions on how to teach your
children the core values that are
important to you. We are always
open to suggestions, so please
dont hesitate to contact us if you
have a topic you would like us to
explore.
In this issue you can read about
teaching your children manners
and gratitude, hiring a baby-
sitter, managing your hectic
holiday schedule, suggestions for
inexpensive and creative gifts
and wrapping, a variety of holiday
traditions and flu facts. We hope
you take a few minutes from your
busy schedule to find some useful
tips among our pages and keep the
warmth of the holidays in your
heart despite the cold outside.
Thank you to
our cover models
Anna Weitz and
Santa.
Like us on Facebook.
parenting: TODAY & TOMORROW 1
8243_Dec-January.pdf 1 11/7/11 4:23 PM
CONTENTS
Etiquette Schmetiquette 3
Juggling the Holiday Frenzy 6
Secret Savings Unwrapped 9
Family Snapshot 10
Celebrating Around the World 12
Five Steps to a Sitter 18
Resolute Resolutions 20
Wholesome Living 23
Daytripping 24
Media Moment 25
Family Functions 27
DECEMBER/JANUARY 2012
Photos courtesy ofMiddle: Alec Dolter; Right: Lindsay Powers
2 December/January 2012
8243_Dec-January.pdf 2 11/9/11 12:33 PM
F
or many of us, its a familiar scene. As you make
your way through the cereal aislepossibly a
grave errorthe otherwise well-mannered child
sitting in the front of your cart begins lunging for the
colorful boxes that line the shelves, eventually lather-
ing themselves into a class-five meltdown. You quickly
scoot out of the aisle (relatively) unscathed.
This classic Dr. Jeckle/Mr. Hyde moments, as
Momma Kloser refers to them, can leave many a par-
ent scratching their head. How can such a sweet,
well-mannered child turn into a world-class headache-
inducer at the drop of a hat (simply due to spying a
box of Fruity Pebbles)?
While we at parenting: TODAY & TOMORROW can-
not guarantee the transformation of your part-time
Etiquette Schmetiquette
Reinforcing the Magic Word and a Few Others
terror into a full-time angel, there are ways to prevent
Mr. Hyde moments. And one of the best places to
start is by taking a long look at the way we, as adults,
behave toward one another.
Model Students
While it might have been decades since our last
freak-outs in the cereal aisle, Teresa Fischer, childcare
coordinator at the Dubuque Community Y/Finley
Childcare Center, advises adults to think about their
reactions the last time they were cut off in trafficand
who was watching. Children watch us all the time,
said Fischer. As adults we forget to be polite. Tak-
ing an extra moment to calm ourselves in an instance
by Amanda Kloser
Parents and ki ds Have to be present and i n the
moment to make manners happen.
Teresa Fi scher
parenting: TODAY & TOMORROW 3
8243_Dec-January.pdf 3 11/7/11 4:23 PM
of intense irritation can keep
kids from imitating us in our
least flattering moments.
It follows thenlike any
other life skillkids pick
up their manners from the
adults around them. Fischer
said fostering good manners
is dependent on an adults
ability to model them. Set
the example, she advised.
Its the only way.
For Fischer and her colleagues at the DCY/Finley
Childcare Center, this means working manners into
the day-to-day routine. Teaching manners effectively
can start from birth, she said, noting that please,
thank you and excuse me are all part of the daily
dialogue childcare providers at the DCY/Finley Child-
care Center engage in with infants.
Infusing manners seamlessly into conversations helps
make these phrases second nature later in life. Fischer
noted that while dialogue is started with infants (i.e.,
saying excuse me after an infant burps), manners are
more actively exercised with toddlers as they use sign
language to communicate. Eventually, these manners
become an expected part of conversation with older
children. There are so many things you can do to
include manners in daily communication, Fischer
said.
Politeness Pitfalls
Regardless of the effort adults put forward in exhib-
iting model behavior, there are some situations, the
cereal aisle included, where all manner bets are off.
However, rather than avoiding these situations all
together, addressing the issue head-on can help reduce
the likelihood of mishandled manners.
Kids are more likely to forget their manners when they
are part of an exciting situation. Fischer said that at
times when something newlike a toy or activityis
introduced, kids find it harder to share and wait their
turn. She has found this becomes particularly evident
on birthdays because of a sensory overload. In the
midst of gifts and increased attention on their special
day, kids can forget to say thank you before tearing
into the next brightly wrapped package.
Fischer advised a few methods for curtailing these
situations. Keep a routine, she said. If you know
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something is going to happen that excites a child,
give prompts. For example, give ten, five and one
minute warnings before expecting the pick-up of
toys or leaving the play area at a park. Forewarning
kids about the beginning and ending of a particu-
larly exciting moment can help them remain mind-
ful of their manners and ease them in and out of
their glee. Regardless of birthdays and special occa-
sions, manners should be reinforced.
Sit-down dinners can also be a fundamental place to
reinforce please and thank you, Fischer noted,
as this encourages all family members to be aware of
their manners during conversational exchange.
Shut off the TV and sit down for dinner, Fischer
advised. Parents and kids have to be present and in
the moment to make manners happen. That means
the Nintendo DS, television, and the Blackberry
have to be shut downat least for dinner.
Manners Maintenance
In our increasingly electronic social environment,
many manner-musts have fallen by the wayside. Per-
haps the most neglected is the thank you card. When
gifts are sent in the mail, kids should at least partici-
pate in returning a card expressing their gratitude.
Fischer noted that even the youngest gift recipients
can draw or color on a sheet of paper to be enclosed in
a card which also shows kids the lost art of snail mail.
Besides, Fischer added, thank you cards arriving in the
mailbox just brighten someones day. If the gift giver is
present when a child opens a gift, a verbal thank you
will suffice to illustrate appreciation.
Unfortunately, the conveniences of an electronic
world have also increased the pace of our day-to-day
lives. Fischer said that many parents feel rushed, and
the guilt of not being able to spend more time with
our kids builds, interfering with our jobs as parents.
This often leads kids to ask and parents to automati-
cally give, allowing children to expect instant gratifi-
cation without please and thank you as part of the
conversation.
Again, routine, consistency, and modeling good
behavior are all part of helping kids remember
their manners, said Fischer. Manners have fallen
by the wayside for everybody, said Fischer. Adding
that we all need to slow down and remember our
manners.
With that in mind, Fischer said parents should have
the expectation that kids use manners all the time,
making manners a central part of the daily routine,
even when disciplining kids. Older children may
also have a set of consequences for mismanaged
manners. Parents can have friendly moments with
kids, but can never be their kids friends, explained
Fischer.
Learning manners as a life skill can also help shape
a childs future. Fischer pointed out that well-
mannered kids have an easier time making friends
because politeness helps them with peers as they get
older. Manners can also be a huge asset as kids go to
look for a job. No matter the motivation, it becomes
clear that Fischers characterization of manners as a
necessary life skill is dead on, as children return to
this social behavior repeatedly as they begin to inde-
pendently explore their world.
Manners are a skill we often take for granted. Many
of uschildren and adultshave soundly forgotten
the magic behind the magic word. Though Fischer
pointed out that manners can be introduced at any
age, parents can try harder from the start to cement
politeness as an everyday part of speech. Leading by
example, maintaining expectations and keeping a
routine are all keys toward helping our kids remember
their manners and giving adults a healthy reminder as
well. By brushing up on our politeness we can all work
together to create a much more peaceful cereal aisle
and social arena at large.
Thanks to our models Grant Gauley and Sylvester Hubbard.
204 Perry St / 120 N Main St
Galena, IL 61036
Phone 815.777.0690
www.markethouserestaurant.com
Laura DuBord
Overlooking Historic Galena since 1982
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parenting: TODAY & TOMORROW 5
8243_Dec-January.pdf 5 11/7/11 4:23 PM
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With the holiday season in full swing, time to finish shop-
ping, wrapping and baking may be in short supply, often
leaving little time to spend with family and truly enjoy the
season. Implementing some time management techniques
and setting limits can gain some of those precious minutes
back, help your pocketbook and teach your children some
core values and skills.
Susan Taylor, family finance specialist with Iowa State
University Extension, suggests implementing the Keep It
Simple, Silly method. K.I.S.S. makes this time of year less
stressful and more enjoyable for everyone.
We need to come back to basics, explained Taylor. Part
of the deal of surviving the holidays is scheduling your
time. Time is one of those resources that is here this second
and goneyou cant bank it.
The first step is early planning. With two sets of grandpar-
ents who want to see the kids for the holidays, plus aunts,
uncles, cousins and friends who want their face time, not to
mention school and church programs, it can be hard to put
on a happy face while you are constantly in the car running
from one event to the next.
If there was a divorce in your family, this problem may
be doubled. Some families resolve the issue by rotating
who they visit each year so no one is left out and every-
one knows the routine. If that is not an option for you,
here are some tips to drop your stress level to manageable
proportions.
Parents should start with a list of items they want or need to
finish for the season. Include shopping, wrapping, mailing
cards, cooking, baking, parties and other events. If you can
Time is what we want most, but what
we use worst.
William Penn
by Kelly Burtis
6 December/January 2012
8243_Dec-January.pdf 6 11/7/11 4:23 PM
make this list early, possibly in Novem-
ber, and spread tasks out, it becomes less
daunting.
Make your list then pare it back, advises
Taylor. Do the things that are most
important to you. Dont try to keep up
with the Joneses.
Parents need to sit down together and
map out the various parties they are being
asked to attend. If parents are separated,
this communication will be key to mak-
ing the holidays harmonious for the
youngsters in their lives.
It is okay to decline an invitation to a
party if you are feeling overwhelmed by
the number of places you are asked to stop
for the holidays. Graciously tell your host
that the date wont work,
but ask to set aside some
time to get together in
January when you are
away from the hustle and
bustle of the holidays.
You will have the oppor-
tunity to visit in a less
stressful environment
and will likely enjoy the
time more.
Hosting a holiday party
can leave mom and dad
feeling frazzled, so, again, keep it simple.
One option is to create a menu, then
reduce. Is it necessary to have ham and
turkey or potatoes prepared two or three
ways? Pick the foods that you know are
favorites among many of your guests and
then prepare those special foods.
People set themselves up to fail, said
Taylor. Sometimes you create your own
worst nightmares trying to be perfect.
The big meal is not really necessaryit is
about spending time with the people you
care about. With this in mind, Taylor said
you could have a party without the meal.
An afternoon gathering with cookies and
hot cocoa is less stressful, not to mention
cheaper, and serves the same purpose.
The holiday season is stressful to begin with, but adding a
divorce, especially a contentious one, can make the season
less-than-joyous for parents and children alike.
Milly Kaiser, University of Illinois Extension family life
coordinator, offers families a few tips to keep the peace. First,
no matter how strong your negative feelings are toward the
other party, remember that the kids did not divorce their other
parent or grandparents.
When parents divorce, everyone in the family is making
adjustments in dealing with the holiday visitation schedule,
said Kaiser. How children adjust to these changes will
depend on how well the parents adjust to their new roles.
Parents who focus on creating a positive, nurturing setting for
their children can be the key to a more harmonious holiday.
The needs of the children must come first, said Kaiser.
Parents need to openly communicate and be civil with one
another because it is about the children. Talk to the kids and
find out what they are feeling and what they are concerned
about. Try to put a positive spin on the situation. For example,
tell kids they now have two families to love them.
Parents need to discuss the visitation schedule so both
know when they can plan special events. Share this with
the children as well so they know what to expect. A family
meeting would help coordinate expectations and schedules.
Be flexible with this schedule. If there is a gathering for one
side of the family that doesnt match up with the visitation
schedule, consider negotiating different times so kids can
see they have two families who love them.
A divorce is stressful for everyone, so parents need to
remember to help children deal with that stress as well.
Keeping a routine and openly communicating about changes
keeps everyone from being caught off guard. Make sure
everyone is maintaining a healthy diet (at least as much
as possible during the holidays), getting enough sleep and
exercising to reduce stress.
Finally, dont compete with the other parent, advises
Kaiser. It is not going to matter how much you spend on
the kids or how many gifts you give them. In the long run,
what they will remember is the quality time you spent with
them and the nurturing they felt when with you.
Divorce and the Holidays: How Do You Keep the Peace?
Other options for the meal include sim-
pler fare, such as ordering pizza. You could
make lasagna or a casserole a week or two
ahead of time and freeze it so the day of
the party you only have to reheat it and
perhaps add a salad and bread.
If you have a family who thrives on hav-
ing a table overflowing with options,
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perhaps a potluck is in order. You can
offer to prepare the meat and let the rest
of your family and friends provide the
side dishes, salads and desserts. Families
with children old enough to help should
involve the kids. Let them choose a dish
to be responsible for or assist in all the
preparation. This is a great way to spend
time with your family and lessen your
workload, said Taylor.
Holiday baking is another place to
include the kids. This is an important
tradition for many families, and Taylor
stresses that you need to keep those types
of traditions going to build memories for
your children. These traditions can also
offer a sense of stability to a family that
is in transition because of a divorce or
death in the family. However, you dont
have to make 12 varieties of cookies. Pick
a couple of favorites and call it done. The
youngest members of the family can cut
out cookies or add sprinkles. Of course
this may be a little messier, but your chil-
dren will have great holiday memories of
the smells and sounds of a busy kitchen.
Another aspect of the holidays is gift giv-
ing. Keep your gift-giving simple. How
many dolls or trucks do the kids really
need? A family gift may work well because
it promotes family time that seems to be in
such short supply. A game or gift card for
the entire family to go out to eat together
may be a good choice. A gift for the entire
family also means you have fewer gifts to
buy, helping your pocketbook and giving
you back some precious time.
Prioritiesits not how many gifts you
get, its that you were recognized, said Tay-
lor. Helping children understand it is the
thought that counts and not the gift is a
valuable lesson. This tip is essential for
families dealing with a divorce to demon-
strate that love cannot be bought. Divorced
parents should agree on what they are each
giving a child and not go overboard.
With an uncertain economy, cutting back
on gift giving would likely be a relief for
everyone. Is it necessary to buy a gift for
all of the aunts, uncles, nieces and neph-
ews? Discuss other options such as draw-
ing names; then everyone receives a gift
but you dont have the expense of buying
for everyone. Again, this saves you time
with less shopping to do.
Whether your holiday gathering hap-
pens in November, December or Janu-
ary, remember to build in memorable
moments, especially for the children said
Taylor. The gathering should be about
more than gifts and food. Even if you are
not the host of a party, offer to plan a fam-
ily activity. It could be as simple as a card
game or board game. Weather permitting,
you could spend some time outside sled-
ding, playing football, playing basketball,
or even ice skating. These are opportuni-
ties to talk and reconnect with the family
you and yours dont often see, and these
are the moments the children will remem-
ber and talk about when they are adults.
Bear in mind that every clan is different,
and you need to do what is right for your
family. Family dynamics are constantly
changing. If you are hosting a party, be
sure to keep the newest members of the
family in mind to show them your tradi-
tions and make them feel comfortable. On
the flip side, if you are the new member
of the family, attend gatherings with an
open mind said Taylor. There are bound
to be differences and some traditions that
you may even find odd, but take the time
to watch or participate and see how the
family functions together.
Remember, the gravy may be lumpy or
the turkey a little dry, but in the end, this
is the time to cherish your family, share
some laughs and support one another
through another special holiday.
8 December/January 2012
8243_Dec-January.pdf 8 11/7/11 4:23 PM
parenting: TODAY & TOMORROW 9
T
he holiday season can be full of
stress coming at us from all direc-
tions. One significant concern for many
is pressure on family finances.
Problems with the economy are no secret
to anyone, so smaller, simpler gifts make
sense for holiday-strained budgets. You
can still recognize the special people in
your life and let them know you care, but
it isnt necessary to drain the bank. Susan
Taylor, family finance specialist with
Iowa State University Extension, offers
the following gift suggestions to make
everyone on your list feel special:
A coffee mug stuffed with a variety
of coffees, teas, hot cocoas or candy
A canister filled with baked goods,
coffee, tea, etc.
A loaf of bread attached to a cutting
board with a bread knife
A jar containing the dry ingredients
for cookies, brownies or soup
Jams, jellies or other spreads in a
reusable container with a spreader,
spoon or crackers attached
Cookies packaged in a flowerpot
Cookies wrapped with the cookie
cutters used to make them
A storage box with a hand-decorated
lid; fill it with goodies as an extra
bonus
A decorative loaf pan filled with
quick-make breads
A cookie jar filled with decorating
accessories such as food coloring,
sprinkles, cookie cutters and your
favorite recipe
A homemade garden stepping stone
A family gift, such as a gift card for
dining or the movies, instead of a
present for each person
A game that everyone can enjoy
If you like to cook or are crafty, there is a
plethora of ideas at your fingertips with
a quick Google search. Notmadeofmoney
.com has compiled a list of ideas on their
website, complete with instructions, and
familycrafts.about.com offers ideas to get
the entire family involved.
Once you have all those wonderful gifts,
you still have to wrap them, and sometimes
the wrapping paper costs as much as the gift.
Taylor offers some creative tips that are
also green for any environmentalists on
your shopping list.
Place the gift in a reusable grocery bag
For large gifts, use a vinyl tablecloth
that could be used again
Wrap kitchen gifts in a dish towel
Decorate an oatmeal or cereal box
Make a throw out of fleece and wrap
the rest of the gift inside
Edible goods can be packaged in reus-
able kitchen containers with a bow
Use reusable lunch bags to hide a gift
For sweet treats, pick up platters,
baskets or other containers from
garage sales
Let kids decorate white or brown
paper
Reuse gift bags, wrapping paper and
bows
Using any of these ideas or your own home-
made creations will save you money and
make the receiver feel special, because
you put in the extra efforta homemade
touch.
by Kelly Burtis
parenting: TODAY & TOMORROW 9
8243_Dec-January.pdf 9 11/7/11 4:23 PM
Through her University of Iowa Hospitals and Clin-
ics (UIHC) Care Page and Facebook page, Annas
Miracle Makers, thousands of people around the
world learned about Annas diagnosis. We have
thousands of people praying for Anna, said Krista.
That is so comforting.
Initially, both parents attended Annas treatments
at the University of Iowa Childrens Hospital, but
the reality was that someone needed to be home
with the boys, and Mike had to work at Weitz Sign
Company. Krista was able to take a leave from her
position at Northeast Iowa Commu-
nity College and stay with Anna for her
treatments.
It was difficult when we had long
stretches in the hospital, said Krista.
The couple was able to stay in touch
using Skype. Mike, Noah and John vis-
ited when they could.
When Noah and John were in Iowa
City with Anna, they were typical big
brothers trying to help her. They let her
squeeze their hands when she needed
injections. She thought it hurt us
when she squeezed, but it didnt, said
Noah.
Live, Laugh, Love has become a popular say-
ing in home dcor, but it is also the perfect motto for
Krista and Mike Weitzs young family.
The Weitz family was leading an average American
family life with their three children, Noah, 10, John,
6, and Anna, 5. That all-American life was turned
upside down when Anna started experiencing back
pain. It took doctors a little time, but she was diag-
nosed in October 2010 with Rhabdomyosarcoma, a
very rare and aggressive cancer.
There was a real mind-set that had to be changed,
said Krista about figuring out how to get through
this crisis. First, the couple realized that the basic
household chores like laundry and dishes could
wait, because time together as a family needed to be
cherished, even if it was as simple as cuddling on the
couch while watching a movie. The second part they
had to deal with was learning how to accept help.
I dont see how we could have done all of this without
our families, said Krista. The Weitzes know they are
fortunate to have so many family members who live
nearby and are willing to help. Those family members
have recognized the need for the couple, who have
been married 13 years, to make time for each other,
so they take the kids to give Krista and Mike a break.
Mike said it was difficult knowing how to be thank-
ful and accept things. We have received so much
help; it is hard to get past the feeling that we owe
people or have to pay it back.
Once the family dealt with the initial shock of the
diagnosis for such a young person, they put their
hands together and started praying for a miracle.
John, Mike, Noah, Krista and Anna Weitz
10 December/January 2012
8243_Dec-January.pdf 10 11/7/11 4:23 PM
The illness does not define Anna or her
family. A few short minutes with them
and you realize that the boys simply view
her as their kid sister and enjoy teasing
her. Anna isnt afraid to give them a taste
of their own medicine. They have a lot
of fun together, said Mike.
The Weitzes have tried to keep life as
normal as possible. Noah and John play
soccer and enjoy time with their friends.
Noah wants to be a zookeeper, which
explains the reptiles and other creatures
he likes to pick up and bring home. And,
as the admiring younger brother, John
plans to be his assistant. John is also the
family comedian and always has some-
thing to say to put a smile on your face.
Anna enjoys going to the park, riding her
bike and playing board games such as
Sorry

, Life

and Monopoly

. She wants
to teach first grade because John has
told her how much fun it is and maybe
also be a model.
When asked what makes her family spe-
cial, Anna put it only as a five-year-old
can: Because they play with me.
Anna is enrolled in preschool, but cant
attend often because her immune system
is weak and she is more susceptible to ill-
nesses. At home the family has become
germ-a-phobes to try to keep Anna
healthy. Despite her young age, Anna will
correct even some of the adults in her
life when they do something that would
spread germs to her, such as sharing
her food. Krista acknowledges that their
lives have changed drastically because
of the cancer. They avoid crowded places,
FOR MORE INFORMATION
The Weitz family recommended a few of their favorite web sites to find out more about can-
cer, support groups and how you can help.
Cure Search has great accurate information.
http://www.curesearch.org/
Super Sibs is a web site for siblings of kids with cancer through the University of
Iowa Childrens Hospital. The Weitz family said it has helped their children cope.
http://www.supersibs.org/
Loras College Dance Marathon is a wonderful local organization for any child who
spends time at the University of Iowa Childrens Hospital. They sponsor local social
events for families dealing with a childhood illness and raise money for the kids.
The money goes toward making a hospital stay fun and more comfortable.
http://lorasdm.org/
This is the general web site for University of Childrens Hospital Hematology Department.
http://www.uihealthcare.com/depts/med/pediatrics/divisions/hemonc/index.html
Sorry , Life and Monopoly . She wants
and at times family members cant visit
because they have colds.
She is amazing with it! said Mike.
Anna understands that these extra
precautions need to be taken for her
health, and she is doing what she has
to so she can be healthy again.
Anna is scheduled to finish her chemo-
therapy at the end of December. The
treatment appears to be working, but
the family wont know Annas true prog-
nosis until she has been cancer free for
5 years.
In the meantime, the Weitz family will
continue to Live, Laugh and Love one
day at a time and always together.
by Kelly Burtis
d out more abo
e University of
ldren cope.
any child who
or local social
for the kids.
able.
y Department.
c/index.html
out can-
parenting: TODAY & TOMORROW 11
8243_Dec-January.pdf 11 11/7/11 4:23 PM
Celebrati ng
by Kelly Burtis Having grown up in this area, I know that the population of
the tri-state region is relatively homogeneous. However, in
todays global society, it is important for children to be aware
of different traditions and to be respectful of classmates who
may not set up a Christmas tree or receive gifts because their
family has different customs.
Statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Association
of Religion Data Archives show that more than 75 percent
of Dubuque County residents are Christian. Because our
local population lacks a lot of religious diversity, it takes
extra effort to teach our children about these traditions.
parenting: TODAY & TOMORROW hopes a brief look at
how some people in the tri-state area celebrate the holi-
day season will help you educate your children and perhaps
even start some new traditions of your own.
Around the

12 December/January 2012
8243_Dec-January.pdf 12 11/7/11 4:24 PM
How to play dreidel
Use pennies, nuts, raisins or chocolate coins
(gelt) as tokens.
A player spins the dreidel. When it stops, the
letter that is facing up decides the outcome.
NUNnothing happensnext player spins
the dreidel.
GIMELplayer takes all tokens in
the pot.
HEYplayer takes half of
the pot.
SHINplayer must
put one token into
the pot.
Hanukkah
This Jewish holiday seems to be the one most Ameri-
cans know about and can give a brief synopsis of,
but, according to Rabbi Ann Landowne with Temple
Beth El in Dubuque, Hanukkah is a relatively minor
festival.
In the history of the Jewish faith, Hanukkah is a fairly
new holiday and is not even included in Jewish scrip-
tures. The celebration commemorates the victory
of the Maccabees over the Syrian army in 165 B.C.
and the liberation and rededication of the Temple in
Jerusalem. It is celebrated for eight days because the
Maccabees only had enough oil to last one day when
they regained control of the Temple. Miraculously
the oil lasted eight days, giving the warriors enough
time to get more oil and purify the Temple. Land-
owne explained that Jewish ancestors debated making
Hanukkah a holiday because of its military history.
Today, the celebration is about religious freedom and
rededicating ones self to Jewish values. This year the
festival begins December 21.
The holiday is marked with lighting the menorah for
eight days. If you have ever seen a menorah, you may
wonder why it has nine candles since only eight days
are celebrated. The candle in the middle is called a
shamash or helper candle and is used to light the
other candles. Special blessings are said with each
lighting. The idea of the menorah is to put the meno-
rah in the window to be proud of your Jewish heri-
tage, explained Landowne.
When Hanukkah was first celebrated, children would
be given spare change. With the holidays proximity
to Christmas in the United States, gifts have become
a normal part of the holiday with children receiving a
gift each day of the festival.
Some Jewish holidays restrict travel, so they are not
spent with family. Hanukkah has no travel restric-
tions; it is a family holiday. In religious services the
holiday is very minor, and there are a few additions
made to blessings that are said daily. The bulk of the
celebration is done at home, explained Landowne.
Children enjoy playing dreidel during Hanukkah.
They use gelt which can be coins, candy or other
snack items, and a spin of the top-like game piece
determines their prize.
As with any celebration, food is a key component. In
the United States latkes (potato pancakes) are most
parenting: TODAY & TOMORROW 13
8243_Dec-January.pdf 13 11/7/11 4:24 PM
popular. Donuts are also made. Landowne said in
Israel many families enjoy jelly-filled donuts. Fried
foods are most common because of the oil used and
the miracle associated with the oil. Traditions are
different around the world because the types of food
available vary.
Christ mas Around the World
Botswana
According to Loras College students Chedu
Machola and Michael Segolodi, their home-
land, Botswana, is primarily Christian.
The pair agreed, though, that Christmas
in Botswana is more about gathering with
friends and family than anything else.
Machola said it is common to have villag-
ers gather for soccer games at Christmas
because it is a very popular sport there.
Christian families attend mass. Segolodi explained
that mass begins on Christmas Eve and families are
at church all night. That is usually followed by a large
feast.
A few Christmas decorations are used said Machola,
but they are mostly available to families that are
wealthier. Those decorations consist of a plastic tree
and perhaps a few lights.
As for gifts, children always ask for new Christmas
clothes. You wont see these packaged in a box under
a tree, said Segolodi. They dont believe in Santa
Claus. More extravagant gifts, like toys, are purchased
by wealthier families.
Ethiopia
Loras College student Amanuel Hmariam is from
Ethiopia and a member of the Ethiopian Ortho-
dox Church, one of the most ancient Christian
denominations.
Because Ethiopians follow a lunar calendar, the birth
of Jesus is celebrated slightly later than in the United
States. Christmas falls on January 7th or 8th. There
is a strong Christian following in Ethiopia, so much
so that their calendar is 7.5 years behind the Grego-
rian calendar followed in the United States; the year
is 2004 in Ethiopia. Hmariam explained that the dif-
ference came about more than 2000 years ago as it
took 7.5 years for the news of Jesuss birth to travel to
Ethiopia.
The Christmas ceremony in the Ethiopian Orthodox
Church is very important. Hmariam explained that a
regular mass is rather long in his orthodox faith, but
the Christmas mass is even longer. Worshippers go to
church at 9 P.M. on Christmas Eve and stay until 3 or
4 in the morning. There is a lot of music but no guitars
or organs. Traditional instruments played
in church include drums and flutes.
As in the United States this is a time
of year for families to gather and share
large meals. Hmariam said Ethiopians
eat a lot of meat with rich flavors. The
country has been influenced by West-
ern cultures and families decorate with
Christmas trees and lights.
At the end of January or early February,
Ethiopians celebrate Tiket, or Jesuss bap-
tism. This celebration is not as family-
oriented, but it is very important in the
church.
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14 December/January 2012
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Colombia
Christmas in Colombia has the same theme as the
previous celebrations: Family. Luisa Jimenez, a Loras
College student from Colombia, said the Christmas cel-
ebration actually starts nine days before December 25
with novena. Jimenez explained that novena is
about preparing for Jesuss arrival. She said the books
containing these special prayers are so common in
Colombia that you can walk into any grocery store
and find them.
The novena prayers are reflective prayers for individu-
als to consider how they have treated others and the
changes they may need to make in their lives. Mod-
ern novenas are shorter but still have the same idea.
Colombians may be listening to the radio or be at the
mall and hear the daily novena.
During these days, families visit other family members
and pray together. Each of these days, the family has
meals together and sings carols. Christmas Eve is the
big meal and families attend services. Jimenez said her
family opens their gifts at midnight on Christmas Eve
to celebrate Jesuss birth. The gifts are usually small,
thoughtful gifts.
Jimenez said Santa Claus visits Colom-
bia, but the mainstream belief is that
Jesus brings gifts. Decorations are also
similar to those in the United States, but
because Colombia lies on the equator,
live Christmas trees are not an option.
Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa is an African American eth-
nic holiday celebrating values that are
held in high-esteem in African cultures,
explained Dan Johnson, vice principal
at Senior High School.
There is a similar cel-
ebration in Africa called
Kwanzaa to celebrate the
harvest. The American
version was started in 1966
and draws from various
African cultures.
This is not a religious holi-
day, stressed Johnson. The
holiday focuses on seven
core principles: Unity, Self-
Determination, Collective
Work and Responsibilities,
Cooperative Economics, Pur-
pose, Creativity and Faith.
Kwanzaa begins December 26
and lasts seven days, with each
day dedicated to one of the core
principles.
Johnson said his family starts each morn-
ing discussing the principle of the day.
During this time he reflects on how
he utilized that core value in the past
year and how he will use it in the next
year.
The holiday urges African Ameri-
cans to focus on the seven principles
for community and individual success.
If you incorporate those values in your life you
will have success, said Johnson. For my family it
comes down to looking at those valuesthey tie well
with my Christian values and my African-American
heritage.
Part of the Kwanzaa celebration is the kinara, which is
a candleholder containing seven candles, one for each
principle. Johnsons family does not light the kinara
until the last day of Kwanzaa. At this time he said
his family recaps what each principle means to each
of them.
parenting: TODAY & TOMORROW 15
8243_Dec-January.pdf 15 11/7/11 4:24 PM
Some families do exchange gifts for Kwanzaa. Johnson
advises those gifts should be homemade to maintain
the root of the principles being celebrated.
Ti har and Maghe Sankranti
Nepal has a large Hindu population so their celebra-
tions are not at the same time of year as most of us
are accustomed to. Surya Pandey,
a Loras College student, explained
that the Hindu celebration most
closely resembling Christmas is
Tihar in late October. This cele-
bration lasts five days and includes
a lot of fireworks and lights. Each
day, Hindus worship different ani-
mals, including crows, dogs, cows
and oxen. On the fifth day they
honor their brothers and sisters
with blessings and gifts.
Maghe Sankranti is celebrated in
January. It usually happens on one
of the coldest days of the year, but
it is a celebration to welcome the
warmer weather of spring. Pandey
said people gather with their fami-
lies and eat foods that will keep
them warm, such as quati, a soup
made with different types of beans,
and khichadi, which is lentils and
rice. He said the closest American
holiday to this one is Thanksgiving because the fami-
lies come together for large meals, but it is a religious
holiday for the Hindu people.
Lunar New Year
This celebration has strong Asian roots. In China
the celebration is called the Chinese New Year, but
other countries have different names for the same
celebration. The Vietnamese culture refers to the
holiday as the Lunar New Year, and it is the big-
gest festival of the year. Students and staff at Divine
Word College offer tri-staters a glimpse of what this
festival is about.
The traditional holiday lasts three days, but prepara-
tions start weeks before, explained Rev. Linh Pham,
associate director for development at Divine Word
College in Epworth, Iowa. The holiday celebrates
the new year and the coming of spring. It is a time to
reflect on the past year and give thanks, then to look
forward to a prosperous new year. Families generally
start with a good house cleaning before the celebra-
tion, which allows for a fresh start in the new year. In
addition, you are not supposed to clean or take out the
garbage during the celebration because you are also
removing the good fortune brought by the new year.
Pham associates the celebration with Thanksgiving in
the United States. He said it is a very family-centered
holiday. In the days leading up to the holiday, chil-
dren return to their parents home and help with the
preparations. In Vietnam, you spend the first day of
the new year with your immediate family and should
not travel to other homes. On the second day you
visit extended family and on the third day you visit
your teachers, who are revered in Vietnamese culture,
explained Pham.
16 December/January 2012
8243_Dec-January.pdf 16 11/7/11 4:24 PM
Food is a must in this celebra-
tion, too. Pham said families
prepare an abundance of food
and this also brings good fortune
for the year ahead. He recalls
sticky rice cakes as the one item
his family had to have every year
for the Lunar New Year celebra-
tion. In China, families prepare fish
in abundance for their celebration.
Pham explained that the Chinese
word for fish is very similar to the word
for prosperity, so fish are considered a
sign of prosperity.
Another custom associated with the holiday is giv-
ing money to children. Pham said children go to
their elders to wish them good health and offer their
respect. In return, elders give children money, often
sealed in red envelopes which symbolize luck.
As with any celebration, there are variations on how
the Lunar New Year is celebrated around the world.
Pham pointed out that in Vietnam alone there are
54 ethnic groups, each with their own traditions. In
Western culture we often associate dragon dances with
the New Years celebration. Pham said this is more of a
Chinese tradition, but there are parts of Vietnam that
also dance with colorful dragons. The drum and gong
often mark the beginning of the celebration, but again
Pham said this depends on the region.
January 23, 2012, will mark the beginning of the
year of the dragon. In an effort to teach the public
about this important tradition, Divine Word College
will host a one-day celebration on January 28, 2012,
beginning with a celebratory mass at 3 P.M. followed
by a banquet and entertainment, including dragon
dancers. The event is free and open to the public, but
tickets are needed. For tickets call Divine Word Col-
lege at (563) 876-3353.
Special thanks to Sandy Wilgenbusch at Divine Word College for
supplying photos. Also to Global Goods in Dubuque for allowing
us to photograph their merchandise.
Parenting: The rearing of children,
especially the care, love, and guidance
given by parents.
2175 Kerper Blvd.
Dubuque, IA 52001
563.582.3631
parenting: TODAY & TOMORROW 17
8243_Dec-January.pdf 17 11/7/11 4:24 PM
11
Baby-sitter vs. childcare provider: Do you know the
difference? A baby-sitter is someone a parent hires for
an evening or during the day to watch their children.
The baby-sitter that is referred to in this article is not
a child care provider, a professional who maintains
training hours and makes a living caring for children.
For the purpose of this article, we are going to talk
about hiring a baby-sitter.
The first step in hiring a baby-sitter is finding one.
In many ca ses, you can talk to other parents and get
a word-of-mouth referral. The only downfall to this
method is that sometimes you and the other parents
might be out together, and then you have to decide
who gets to hire the baby-sitter. When a parent calls
the Child Care Resource and Referral office, we
always recommend looking at the colleges in our area.
Sometimes there is a student building with a bulletin
55555
555555
555555555555
to
a
by Tara Roddick
Acting Director of Child
Care Resource and Referral
Steps
Sitter
Steps
Sitter
18 December/January 2012
8243_Dec-January.pdf 18 11/7/11 4:24 PM
5
2
3
4
board, and you can advertise there or
directly contact the specific depart-
ments that might be related to chil-
dren. This might include education,
early childhood, sociology, psychol-
ogy as well as others. Parents could
also advertise in the paper or look in
the paper for baby-sitters. Remem-
ber, a baby-sitter doesnt have to be
a young person; it could be someone
who is any age and enjoys being with children (such as a
retired teacher or family member).
Once you have found a baby-sitter or two, it is best to
interview them to make sure they are someone you would
feel comfortable leaving your children with. You may also
want to check and see if they have CPR/first aid training.
Have your children present at the interview to see how he
or she treats your children. This includes how they talk to
them and how they interact with them (are they smiley or
are they grumpy and rough?). All of these things will give
you some indication of how the baby-sitter will respond
when they are alone with your children. Trust your gut too;
if it doesnt feel right when you meet with someone, you
will never have a good time when you are away from your
children and they are in that persons care.
When you find a baby-sitter you are comfortable with, you
may want to contact a few references. Ideally, these would
be other families they have baby-sat for. If they are a new
baby-sitter, you might want to speak with their parents or a
teacher to decide on how responsible they are.
At some point you will want to talk about how much you
are going to pay the baby-sitter. If you find someone who
baby-sits other families, they might already have a set rate
that they charge. In that case, you would want to make sure
the rate is reasonable for you. If this is a new baby-sitter, you
may want to take into consideration their experience and
how many children they will be watching before
deciding what to pay them.
When the time has come for the baby-sitter to
actually baby-sit, there are some things to keep in
mind. As a parent you will want to give them a
tour of the house and a list of household rules, as
some children like to exaggerate the rules when
someone new is at the house. You will also want
to have a list of emergency numbers and where
you will be for the time that you are gone. If it is
your first time leaving the children, you may want
to call and check in, but that all depends on your
level of comfort with the baby-sitter. It is best to
make it clear that they can
call you at any time if needed.
When you return, talk with
your children about how the
experience with the baby-
sitter went. You will be able
to tell if they had fun and if
the baby-sitter is someone you
may want to hire again.
Tara Roddick is acting director of Child Care Resource
and Referral in Dubuque. She has been with Project
Concern/Child Care Resource and Referral for the past
11 years. After studying Family and Child Develop-
ment at Northern Illinois University, Roddick calls
Galena home with her husband, Blake and two children,
Ian and Ken-
nedy. Roddick
loves spending
time with her
family, making
birthstone jew-
elry and bak-
ing homemade
cakes.
Please contact
the Child Care
Resource and
Referral Center
at 563-557-1628
or e-mail Tara at
troddick@project-
concern.org.

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A baby-sitter doesnt have to be a
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By Amanda Kloser
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R
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New Years resolutions: Many are made, few are kept.
This time-honored tradition often inspires new ambi-
tion as many of us pledge to finally read the Iliad in its
entirety or lose those pesky ten pounds; unfortunately,
not all resolutions find themselves fulfilled as we
fall back into our habits.
That is not to say, however, that the
cause is lost. Keeping resolutions shows
our kids and ourselves that dedication
and discipline does result in a job well
done and a goal accomplished.
This stick-to-it-ism can be particu-
larly infectious for area teens as they
explore the uncharted territories of
high school academics, looming col-
lege applications and staying cool on
the social front. Katie Peterson, Youth Program Spe-
cialist for the Iowa State University Extension and
Outreach program, noted that New Years resolutions
are very effective and can help guide teens to reach
their goals, as they are often more peer focused.
The ART of Crafting Goals
As many adults know, one of the largest challenges
in creating constructive goals, especially around the
New Year, is honestly evaluating your lifestyle and
things you would like to change about it. With so
many areas of improvement to focus on, Peterson
suggested that teens reflect on three larger points
of their lifestyles to make adjustments: health,
happiness and scholarship. Teens are faced with
opportunities for
unhealthy lifestyles on a day-to-day
basis, Peterson pointed out, which may inspire them
to rethink their Facebook

or Playstation 3

usage
compared to time spent on the basketball court
or ultimate frisbee pitch. Teens may also want
to reevaluate their own happiness
levels by reflecting on goals they can
achieve emotionally, socially and
mentally, Peterson said. Of course,
a school-based goal is always a good
idea to include as well.
After a teen has identified their
goals, applying the ART principle
will help achieve success, Peterson
said. ART, an acronym for Action,
Result, and Timetable, is a tool 4-H
participants use to narrow down and better define
their goals. Teens should ask themselves: what do
I want to do? (Action), how can I do it? (Result)
and when can I get it done? (Timetable). Finally,
teens should consider the attainability of their goal.
Peterson suggested teens start with goals that are
relatively short-term, allowing them a better oppor-
tunity to track their progress.
Peterson cautioned against too much parental involve-
ment as teens create their resolutions. Parents should
be more of a cheerleader behind it, she explained. If
a parent sets the goal for the child, its not the childs
goal, making it more difficult for a teen to stick to
the resolution. Rather than making resolutions for
their teens, parents can focus on helping their teens
achieve their goals.
PPP SSSSS
Once they reach a
goal, they can sit
down with their
parents and set
another
Katie Peterson
Helping Teens M
ake (and Keep!)
Their Goals for 2012
by Amanda Kloser
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20 December/January 2012
8243_Dec-January.pdf 20 11/7/11 4:24 PM
Getting Down to Business
Setting goals is a great way for teens to better them-
selves, but these goals cannot be completed in state-
ment alone! Staying motivated until the resolution
is complete can prove to be one of the most diffi-
cult steps in the process. Peterson recommends that
reminders of the goal remain in visual sight at all
times to prevent an out-of-sight/out-of-mind lapse.
Something akin to a goal-setting sheet should be
posted in a place of visual prominence so that teens
can physically see both the goal itself and the prog-
ress theyve made toward completion. Visual objects
[are] definitely an asset, Peterson said.
She also emphasizes the importance of consequences
for progress made or failure to maintain the laid out
schedule. Have there be an outcome for success and
missteps along the way, Peterson said. This will hold
a teen accountable throughout the
entire process of their achievement.
One of the most common signs of a
teens waning ambition is that they
are no longer following the steps to
achieve the goal they laid out. Going
back to the visual can prove very help-
ful in these instances. Ask how you
can help them rather than harping on
them, advised Peterson.
Keeping the goal in sight is critical
throughout this process. Motivators
are one of the biggest things in keep-
ing teens on track because kids often
expect to get something out of what
they do, said Peterson. However,
she notes that one of the most
important factors can be good old-
fashioned encouragement to reen-
ergize teens to keep working on
their goals. Kids just need to hear
that encouragement from their
parents, she explained.
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parenting: TODAY & TOMORROW 21
8243_Dec-January.pdf 21 11/7/11 4:25 PM
Before and After Shots
Achieving goals can be gratifying for all of us, but par-
ticularly so for teens. Successfully reaching a goal can
have a huge effect on a teens self esteem and sense of
accomplishment. If they are able to reach a goal, its
an instant moral booster, said
Peterson.
Reaching goals as a teen can
teach many life lessons as well,
including time management
and determination to succeed.
One New Years resolution kept,
Peterson said, can teach teens to
plan for the future and learn the
process of tracking and attaining
their goals. She added that stud-
ies have also shown a correlation
between setting and keeping
goals and flourishing in college
and financially.
On the flip side, failing to see a
goal to its end can be detrimental
to how a teen feels about him or
herself, said Peterson. Add to that
the fact that the teens time man-
agement skills and self-motivation
have not been sharpened, and it becomes apparent that
a teen has missed out on more than an opportunity for
personal achievement. Working the resolutionand,
just as importantly, its outcomeinto conversation
with a teen can help maintain their ambition and pre-
vent them from letting their goals slip to the wayside.
Have it be a conversation topic rather than something
discussed on a daily basis [and] relate the goal to posi-
tive benefits in the childs life, such as mentioning a
college scholarship when discussing grade improve-
ments, advised Peterson.
Peterson also emphasized the importance of con-
tinued goal making and achieving throughout the
year. January is a good starting point [and] short,
attainable goals are good for teens, she said. How-
ever, maintaining an ongoing process of setting
and reaching goals can help teens make the pro-
cess a habit. Once they reach a goal, they can sit
down with their parents and set another, Peter-
son said. She also mentioned that some goals, par-
ticularly health and wellness oriented resolutions,
can be shared between parent and child as they
work toward the same end.
The most critical thing, Peterson stressed, is to
keep track of the progress your teen makes along
the way. The biggest thing is to celebrate any suc-
cess as you go . . . because thats going to be the
biggest encouragement to the child, she said. This
will also help them maintain dedication to the
goal as their smaller achievements are positively
reinforced.
Whether your teen is looking to bump their grade
point average, make more friends or knock a few more
books off their must read list, wisely setting goals
while tracking achievement is the ticket to success.
With a little encouragement and gentle reminders,
teens can turn wayward New Years resolutions into
important triumphs.
The Jule Transit
2401 Central Ave
Dubuque IA 52001
(563) 589-4198
cityofdubuque.org/thejule
New Years Resolution
Its time
to make
your
1. Help cut down on trafc congestion
2. Help reduce black smoke emissions
3. Reduce gas prices and car maintenance
4. Meet new members of the Dubuque
community
5. Increase your ftness by walking or
biking to the bus stop everyday
All resolutions can be completed just by
taking advantage of The Jule Transit.
22 December/January 2012
8243_Dec-January.pdf 22 11/9/11 12:33 PM
w
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Tis the season of giving; unfortunately
this means germs too. If you and your fam-
ily have ever been couch-ridden with the flu,
youve probably tried to pinpoint just where
and when it might have been contracted and
how you could have been spared the misery.
Lots of variables can cause people to get sick, and
no one is completely immune to coming down
with somethingits the cold, hard truth that
no matter what steps are taken, after one family
member gets sick, someone else often gets sick
too. But with the right precautions and education
about the flu virus, you can reduce the chances of
your family getting the gift that keeps on giving.
During the cold months, from late fall through
spring, the aches and chills of the influenza (flu)
virus are most likely to appear. Marty Kluesner, phar-
macy manager at Walgreens, 2260 Kennedy Road in
Dubuque, said some potential reasons for the influx
of flu during the winter months are weather fluctua-
tions and increased contact with people in indoor
settings. Studies have shown that the flu virus is
more stable when air is cold and dry, so combining
that with school gatherings, shopping and family get-
togethers you have the perfect recipe for catching a
bug along the way.
Influenza is thought to be transmitted from young
children to older children and adults; therefore a
good place to start with your familys flu prevention
is with the little ones. According to the
Centers for Disease Control and Pre-
vention website, infancy through age
five is when children are at the great-
est risk for flu complications. The flu
virus is transmitted through the air and
through direct contact, so arguably the
most important prevention method is to
teach young children proper hand wash-
ing techniques and the importance of
covering their mouths when sneezing
or coughing. Aside
from hand washing and
mouth covering, the flu vac-
cination is another highly
recommended prevention
method for children older than six
months of age. The flu vaccine is also
highly recommended for adults. The vaccine, which
prevents against the most common strains of flu
virus, including influenza B, influenza A (H1N1) and
influenza A (H3N2), contains inactivated viruses that
prepare the body to fight off infection when in con-
tact with a live flu virus. Although the flu shot has a
high success rate, like anything else, it isnt a guar-
antee against getting sick.
When you hear the word flu, you might think of
agonizing head-in-a-vice congestion, or you might
grimace at the thought of vomiting. The true influ-
enza virus is a respiratory disease and not a stom-
ach or intestinal disease, although we usually see
both during the winter.
Other ways to reduce your familys chances of
getting the flu are to encourage thorough hand
washing, reduce the amount of direct contact with
crowds of people, eat nutritious foods, drink plenty
of water, get enough rest and keep physically active
to boost healthy immune systems.
Healthy holidays!
B
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by Natalie Deutmeyer
the Family Flu!
Influenza (flu) Stomach flu (Viral gastroenteritis)
Cough Vomiting
Congestion Diarrhea
Aches and pains Stomach pain and cramping
Fever Occasional fever
Exhaustion
parenting: TODAY & TOMORROW 23
8243_Dec-January.pdf 23 11/7/11 4:25 PM
The National Mississippi River
Museum & Aquarium
S
ometimes the greatest adventures await
you just down the street. This certainly
holds true at the National Mississippi River
Museum & Aquarium nestled along the river-
bank of the mighty Mississippi in downtown
Dubuque. Designed for adventurers of all
ages, this Smithsonian Institutionaffil-
iated museum and aquarium boasts
as many surprises and as much
excitement around every turn as the
great river itself.
Your expedition starts at the Diamond Jo
National River Center where you are swept into
an encompassing history, geology and drama of
the Mississippi River. Artifacts become interac-
tive as beaver pelts, lead and arrowheads are at
visitors fingertips. Daring adventurers can even go
spelunking in a river cave and be treated to a few
river stories.
Around the bend, modern-day pioneers find the Riv-
ers to the Sea Gallery, home to many aquatic anom-
alies, including an octopus, seahorses and starfish.
The massive Gulf of Mexico tank houses a variety of
creatures that inhabit this rich ecological zone. This
gallery also illustrates the importance of conserva-
tion with an interactive globe teaching about global
warming and the ecological causes behind it. Above
this exhibit, the Riverworks area invites explorers to
check out the water cycle, energy transference and
habitat by creating their very own thunderstorm!
The next stop on your journey brings you to the
William Woodward Discovery Center where adven-
turers can go nose to nose with beavers, three-foot-
long catfish and a bayou
alligator. Interactive exhib-
its also show the effects of
flooding when the Missis-
sippi outgrows her river-
banks. In the Carver Wet
Lab, trekkers can get
up close and personal
with crustaceans in the
touch tank and check
out the sleekness of
river mammal pelts.
Through January, the
National Mississippi
River Museum &
Aquarium will also
host an exhibit
titled In the
Dark. This exhibit
gives explorers the
inside scoop on every-
thing that goes bump
in the night, including the
echolocation of vampire
bats, a shrews perspective
on lawn mowers and a cats
built-in night vision.
Adventurers are also invited to
explore the Mississippi through great novelist
Mark Twains eyes at the Mark Twain River Exhibit.
Here, journeyers can pilot a barge, explore the inner
workings of steamboats and check out Tom Saw-
yers cave. The boat shop invites explorers to watch
craftsmen assemble paddles for the iconic craft that
once dominated the Mississippis river traffic.
The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
provides an entire campus to explore, making it one
of the most exciting destinations in the tri-state area
for family adventures. The museum and aquarium is
open 10 A.M.5 P.M. daily November through Memorial
Day weekend and admission is charged. Check out
www.mississippirivermuseum.com or call (563) 557-
9545 for updates on exhibits, 3D/4D films and other
exciting activities coming to the campus.
by Amanda Kloser
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24 December/January 2012
8243_Dec-January.pdf 24 11/7/11 4:25 PM
Movies Coming to the Tri-States Silver Screen
Courtesy of www.boxofficeessentials.com
TITLE RATING
RELEASE
DATE
Answers to Nothing R 12/2
Shame Not Yet
Rated
12/2
Sleeping Beauty Not Yet
Rated
12/2
We Need to Talk About Kevin R 12/2
The Sitter Not Yet
Rated
12/9
Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy R 12/9
I Melt with You R 12/9
New Years Eve Not Yet
Rated
12/9
W.E. Not Yet
Rated
12/9
Young Adult Not Yet
Rated
12/9
Sherlock Holmes: A Game of
Shadows
Not Yet
Rated
12/16
Alvin and the Chipmunks:
Chipwrecked
Not Yet
Rated
12/16
Carnage R 12/16
The Iron Lady Not Yet
Rated
12/16
Mission Impossible: Ghost
Protocol
Not Yet
Rated
12/21
The Adventures of Tintin: The
Secret of the Unicorn
Not Yet
Rated
12/21
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo Not Yet
Rated
12/21
The Land of Blood and Honey R 12/23
We Bought a Zoo Not Yet
Rated
12/23
War Horse PG-13 12/25
Extremely Loud and Incredibly
Close
Not Yet
Rated
12/25
The Darkest Hour PG-13 12/25
Pariah R 12/25
The Devil Inside Not Yet
Rated
1/6
The Possession R 1/6
Beauty and the Beast: 3D G 1/13
Coriolanus R 1/13
Contraband R 1/13
Man on a Ledge PG-13 1/13
Joyful Noise Not Yet
Rated
1/13
Premium Rush Not Yet
Rated
1/13
Underworld: Awakening Not Yet
Rated
1/20
Red Tails Not Yet
Rated
1/20
Haywire Not Yet
Rated
1/20
One for the Money PG-13 1/27
Amityville Horror: The Lost
Tapes
Not Yet
Rated
1/27
The Grey Not Yet
Rated
1/27
Lombardi Not Yet
Rated
1/27
563-588-9094
Buy $100 in gift cards
and receive a FREE
Mindframe T-shirt.
Wear your Mindframe
T-shirt to a movie for
exclusive weekly
specials.
parenting: TODAY & TOMORROW 25
8243_Dec-January.pdf 25 11/9/11 12:34 PM
Music Neighborhoods Blink-182
(2011 DGC Records) by Amanda Kloser
From legendary (and, perhaps infamous) punk rock
band Blink-182 comes their long awaited sixth stu-
dio album, Neighborhoods. Born out of the first
recording session after a long hiatus, Neighbor-
hoods follows Blinks 2003 self-titled album and
2001 widely acclaimed effort Take Off Your Pants
and Jacket. While the band definitely retains its hard-
hitting, fast-paced punk tempo, Neighborhoods
proves to be a more reflective collection than their
previous albums.
The Bad News: Blink-182 has made a career out
of defying the appropriate, and this album is cer-
tainly no exception. While they dont push the
bounds of the unseemly quite as hard as they have
in previous efforts, Neighborhoods does include
a few f-bombs and melodramatic references to
early deaths (e.g., Natives, Ghost on the Dance
Floor). Blinks iconic irreverence for authority also
presents itself from time to time, illustrating that,
even through the blossoming of the bandmates
adulthoods, old habits die hard (e.g., This Is
Home).
The Good News: As front man Mark Hoppus
exclaimed at the MTV Music awards: Blink-182 is
back! Fans of their earlier albums will enjoy the
return of Blinks fast-tempoed, mosh-pit-worthy
beats while appreciating a more mature (or at
least more retrospective) tone in their writing (e.g.,
Books The Juggler by Jeanette Hop-
kins, il. by Stormy Mochal. $16.95 (autographed
copies available), Ice Cube Press.
Toss a chicken, catch two doors, juggle three cab-
bages . . . Farmer Henri dreams of juggling all day
and all night. Jeanette Hopkins The Juggler is a
rhyming tale of perseverance and dreams come
true. Sound sweet? Tis. But what really makes
this picture book outstanding are the illustrations.
Admittedly I may be biased since the artist Stormy
Mochal co-owns the Dubuque art gallery Outside
the Lines. But, Ive been in the childrens book
business for 22 years and
really, really consider The
Juggler to be one of the
cutest picture books I have
ever seen. Its whimsical
and fanciful. The collages,
the paintings, even the
titles are delightful. I love it
and know you will too.
Kaleidoscope). Lyrics
consist mostly of relatable,
almost whimsical phras-
ing as the band presents
struggles with spouses,
families and heartbreak
(e.g., Wishing Well, Love
Is Dangerous). It seems as
though members of Blink-
182 apply the experiences gained during their hia-
tus to their latest album and illustrate that they are
reaching a punk-rock coming of age. Gone are the
references to barnyard anatomy; here to stay, it
seems, are thoughtful vignettes of everyday emo-
tional experiences accompanied by Blink-182s sig-
nature punk-rock delivery.
The Bottom Line: Though many die-hard fans will
note that Blink has become slightly subdued in
their latest effort, their growth in other areassuch
as lyric craftingis apparent when listening to the
ten tracks that make up Neighborhoods. Mature
themes, such as death, bitter heartbreak and rebel-
lion, are covered in this album, along with a few
customary four-letter words. Your teens especially
may relate to these themes, and using them as con-
versation pieces can help you remember the types
of restlessness and frustration you may have felt as
a teen. Neighborhoods is a thoughtful compilation
assembled by an older and wiser Blink-182. New
and old fans alike can appreciate this bands retro-
spective effort.
Okay for Now by Gary
D. Schmidt. $16.99, Clarion
Books.
Its hard to shell out $17.00
for a kids chapter book in
hardcover these days, but
Okay for Now is worth every
penny. Im officially predict-
ing it will win the 2012 New-
bery Award. Author Gary D.
Schmidt lets fourteen-year-
old Doug Swieteck narrate his story directly to you,
the reader. He has just moved to a new town, with
no friends, an abusive father, and a louse for an
older brother. Doug finds a safe haven in the local
library and discovers himself while learning about
the plates of John James Audubons birds. After
loads of laugh-out-loud scenes and many lovely
moments, things turn around a little too quickly at
the end of the book. But hey, Im a sucker for a
happy ending.
26 December/January 2012
8243_Dec-January.pdf 26 11/7/11 4:25 PM
Teen Caf, Carnegie-Stout Public Library, DubuqueDecember 1,
3:305 P.M. The Teen Zone area will transform into the Teen Caf
for you to drop in after school for some fun and refreshments.
Look at books, work on a simple craft projects, surf the Internet
or hang out with your friends. Ages 12High School. No
registration required.
Reflections in the Park, Louis Murphy Park, Dubuque
December 1January 1, 510 P.M. nightly. The hills of Louis
Murphy Park will be alive with glitter and glitz as the glow of
thousands of Christmas bulbs and animated displays light up
the annual Reflections in the Park: A Hillcrest Lights Festival.
All new displays will be blinking their colors and strutting their
charm to an estimated 50,000 visitors. Cost: $8.00 per car.
For more information, call 563.583.7357 or visit Hillcrest Family
Services.
Toddler Time, Carnegie-Stout Public Library, Dubuque
December 1, 8, 16, 6:306:50 P.M., December 5, 12, 9:159:35
A.M. and 10:3010:50 A.M. These 20-minute programs feature
short stories, songs and movement activities for children ages
1835 months with a favorite adult. No registration is required;
parental participation is a must.
Read-Aloud Crowd, Carnegie-Stout Public Library, Dubuque
December 2, 9, 10:3011 A.M. Stories, sing-alongs, movement
activities, circle games and lots of funrecommended for
children ages 36 with a favorite adult. No registration is
required; parental participation is a must.
Scholastic Book Fairs Warehouse Sale, Carnegie-Stout
Public Library, DubuqueDecember 23, 10 A.M.5 P.M. daily,
December 4, 15 P.M., December 5, 10 A.M.7 P.M. Bigger than
ever, Carnegie-Stout Public Library will host a special Scholastic
Book Fair Warehouse Sale Friday, December 2 through Monday,
December 5. It is a half price Book Fair and families, teachers
and the community are invited to attend. Volunteers are
needed. Please call Danielle Day, Youth Services Manager at
589-4138.
Stockton Christmas Tree Lighting and Christmas Walk,
Downtown StocktonDecember 23. Annual tree lighting,
carols and hot cocoa on Friday at 5:30 P.M. in Landmark Park.
Victorian carolers, horse drawn wagon rides and Santas
arrival on Saturday from 9 A.M.2 P.M. Snacks and refreshments.
Information phone: 815-947-2878.
Victorian Candlelight Christmas Tour, Ryan Mansion Bed &
Breakfast, GalenaDecember 23, 910, 1617, 2324, 3031,
57 P.M. daily. Guided candlelight tour of a magnificent mansion
decorated for the holidays by 1882 costumed servants. $10.
Information phone: 815-777-2750.
That Time of Year, Bell Tower Theater, DubuqueDecember 218.
The Bell Tower Theater presents the holiday musical That Time
of Year, running December 2-18. For ticket information, call
588-3377, or log onto belltowertheater.net.
Learn to Knit Workshop, Fiber Wild!, GalenaDecember 3,
911:30 A.M. Workshop teaches the fundamentals of knitting.
Reservations required. $20. Information phone: 815-777-3550.
Meet and Greet Wood Turning Artist Grant Barlow, Hello
Galena!, GalenaDecember 3, 9 A.M.1 P.M. Watch artist Grant
Barlow bring wood to life as he creates unique wood-turned pen
barrels. Information phone: 815-777-1448.
Galena Territory Holiday Housewalk, The Galena Territory,
GalenaDecember 3, 10 A.M.4 P.M. Five homeowners in The
Galena Territory invite the public to tour their beautifully
decorated private homes during this years Galena Territory
Holiday Housewalk. Proceeds will be donated to several local
non-profit organizations. The Holiday Housewalk features self-
guided tours; tickets may be purchased for $12 per person on
the day of the tour at The Galena Territory Owners Club,
2000 Territory Drive, Galena, Illinois, with ticket sales ending at
2:30 P.M. Advanced tickets also may be purchased at The Galena
Territory Owners Club. Light holiday refreshments will be served
at the Owners Club. For more information, call The Galena
Territory Owners Club at 815-777-2000.
Christmas at the Fort, Apple River Fort State Historical Site,
ElizabethDecember 3, 123 P.M. Join costumed interpreters
as they recreate Christmas at the Apple River Settlement. Early
settlers will sing carols and recite poems. Weather permitting.
Information phone: 815-777-2028.
Dubuque Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pops Family Concert,
Five Flags Theater, DubuqueDecember 3, 12 P.M. The
Dubuque Symphony Orchestra presents new this season a
Holiday Pops Family Concert! Special guests include soprano
Esther Heideman, dancers from the Heartland Ballet, a
5th grade honor choir and of course, Santa Claus! Make sure
to bring your camera. Following the concert Santa will be
available for free photos with the kids! Tickets (kids $10,
adults $20, box seats $30) are available at the Five Flags box
office and through Ticketmaster. For more information, visit
www.DubuqueSymphony.org.
White Elephant Gift Exchange Party!, Carnegie-Stout Public
Library, DubuqueDecember 3, 23:30 P.M. Definition of a
white elephant gift: a possession unwanted by the owner but
difficult to dispose of. This is your chance to also wear your
crazy holiday socks or sweater while enjoying a cup of hot
chocolate. Who knows, you may go home with a real find or
another elephant to tuck away and save till next years party.
For ages 12 through high school. Please register by calling the
Library at 563-589-4225 and ask for the Youth Services Help
Desk at extension 2228. **White elephants are items that have
not been used before. If you have nothing like that and would
like to join in on the fun, purchase something but please dont
spend any more than $5.00 on you gift. Please wrap your gift.
Dubuque Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pops Celebration,
Five Flags Theater, DubuqueDecember 3, 7:309:30 P.M.,
December 4, 24 P.M. The Dubuque Symphony Orchestras
annual Holiday Pops Celebration has become a cherished
tradition for many friends and families. The perfect blend
of orchestral, choral, traditional and sacred musicthis
concert has something for everyone to enjoy! Joining the
orchestra will be members of Dubuques own Heartland
Ballet, the Dubuque Chorale and vocal soloist Esther
Heideman. Tickets ($11$43) are available at the Five Flags
box office and through Ticketmaster. For more information,
visit www.DubuqueSymphony.org.
Annual Christmas Cheer Weekend, Carl Johnsons Gallery,
GalenaDecember 34, 10 A.M.5 P.M. A holiday tradition
featuring pepperkakor cookies, Swedish glugg and holiday
music. Free gift wrapping. Information phone: 815-777-1222.
Dubuque Winter Farmers Market, Colts Drum and Bugle
Building, DubuqueDecember 3, 10, 17, 9 A.M.noon. Winter
Farmers Market every Saturday morning. Warm and cozy setting
where 30 vendors sell their homemade or homegrown products.
Breakfast and coffee is served. Every Saturday morning
NovemberApril with the exception of Christmas and New
Years. For more information, see https://www.facebook.com/
DubuqueWinterFarmersMarket.
DECEMBER
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Beckman High School Band Christmas Concert,
Beckman High School, DyersvilleDecember 4,
3 P.M. Gather at the home of the Blazers to enjoy
winter themed selections and holiday favorites
performed by the Beckman High School Band.
Information phone: 563-875-7188.
Holiday Cathedral Concert, St. Francis Xavier
Basilica, DyersvilleDecember 4, 7 P.M.
Gather at historic St. Francis Xavier Basilica to
enjoy winter themed selections and holiday
favorites performed by Western Dubuque High
School choral musicians. Information phone:
563-774-3885.
Drexler Middle/Intermediate School Concert
Choir Performance, Drexler Middle/Intermediate
School, FarleyDecember 6, 7 P.M. Join the
Drexler Middle/Intermediate School Concert
Choir for a lovely holiday choral experience.
Information phone: 563-774-3371.
Mother Goose Time, Carnegie-Stout Public
Library, DubuqueDecember 6, 13, 10:3011 A.M.
Children ages birth18 months and a favorite
adult will learn rhymes, songs and action rhymes
during this interactive program. This program
gives your child the opportunity to hear diverse
vocabulary while you get to know other families.
A 15-minute social time with toys, music and your
friends will follow the sessions. No registration is
required; parental participation is a must.
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Early Dismissal After-School Programs, National
Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium,
DubuqueDecember 7, 24 P.M. The National
Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium offers after-
school programs that coincide with the Dubuque
Community School Districts early dismissal days
for the 2011-2012 school year. All programs are
planned by the Museum & Aquarium education
staff for students in kindergarten through 5th
grade and include hands-on activities relating to
the respective programs unique theme as well
as an afternoon snack. Each program has a $10
charge per student (for members) or a $12 charge
per student (for non-members). Register ahead
of time for each program in order to attend; the
cut-off for registration is the Monday prior to each
program date. For program details go to: http://
bit.ly/earlydismissal. Contact 563-557-9545, ext.
213 to register.
Western Dubuque High School Band Holiday
Concert, Western Dubuque High School,
EpworthDecember 8, 7 P.M. Gather at the home
of the Bobcats to enjoy winter themed selections
and holiday favorites performed by the Western
Dubuque High School Band. Information phone:
563-876-3442.
Kwanzaa Celebration, Multicultural Family
Center, DubuqueDecember 7, 3:45 P.M. The
African American Museum of Iowa will hold a
free program called Kwanzaa Celebration. This
program is designed for youths in grades 1-6.
Potosi Middle and High School Christmas
Concert, Potosi High School, PotosiDecember 8,
7:30 P.M. Gather at the home of the Chieftains
to enjoy winter themed selections and holiday
favorites performed by the Potosi Middle and
High School Bands and Choirs. Information
phone: 608-763-2161.
Multicultural Holiday Event, Multicultural Family
Center, DubuqueDecember 9, 57 P.M. Explore
the meanings and traditions behind Christmas,
Kwanzaa, Diwali, Hanukkah, Three Kings Day and
more. This is truly a holiday party for everyone!
Includes childrens activities, food samples and
raffles. Free event, call to register.
Knit Holiday Ornaments, Fiber Wild!, Galena
December 10, 911:30 A.M. Make cute little
Christmas hat ornaments, learn to knit in the
round with double point needles. Reservations
required. $20. Information phone: 815-777-3550.
Meet and Greet Needle Felting Artist Susan
Brusch, Hello Galena!, GalenaDecember 10,
9 A.M.1 P.M. Watch artist Susan Brusch transform
wool fleece or a colorful sweater into functional
art. Each pair of her heirloom mittens is one-of-a-
kind. Information phone: 815-777-1448.
Reading with Rover, Carnegie-Stout Public
Library, DubuqueDecember 10, 10:3011:15 A.M.
Kids will get the opportunity to read to a pet, or
they can just listen to a pet story along with some
canine companions. Please do not bring your own
dog, a Dubuque Humane Society Volunteer will
provide a group of kid-friendly dogs each month.
For kids grades K3. No registration is required.
Holiday Wrapping Paper Project, Carnegie-Stout
Public Library, DubuqueDecember 10, 12 P.M.
Get into the holiday season by making your
wrapping paper by hand. Children ages 5-8
are invited to join us for a short story time and
wrapping paper project. Please register by calling
the Library at 563-589-4225 and ask for the Youth
Services Help Desk at extension 2228.
Lunch with Santa, Benjamins, Galena
December 1011, 1718, 24, noon2 P.M. Santa
greets children by name as he visits each table
during lunch. Gifts for children. Reservations
requested. Information phone: 815-777-0467.
Lancaster High School Holiday Choral Concert,
Lancaster High School, LancasterDecember 11,
2 P.M. Gather at the home of the Flying Arrows
to enjoy winter themed selections and holiday
favorites performed by the Lancaster High School
Choir. Information phone: 608-723-2175.
Galena High School Winter Concert, Turner
Hall, GalenaDecember 11, 3 P.M. Gather at
Turner Hall to enjoy winter themed selections
and holiday favorites performed by Galena
High School musicians. Information phone:
815-777-3086.
Holy Family Catholic Schools Winter Concert,
Wahlert Catholic High School, Dubuque
December 11, 7 P.M. Gather at the home of the
Golden Eagles to enjoy winter themed selections
and holiday favorites performed by Holy Family
Catholic School musicians in grades 512.
Information phone: 563-583-9771.
Storytimes at Comisky Park, Comisky Park,
DubuqueDecember 12, 10:3011 A.M. In
partnership with the City of Dubuque Leisure
Service Department the Carnegie-Stout Public
Library will be offering story times at the Comiskey
Park Pavilion on the 2nd Monday of the month.
This 20-30 minute story time is for ages 3 to 5.
Drexler Middle/Intermediate School Band
Concert, Drexler Middle/Intermediate School,
FarleyDecember 12, 7 P.M. Join the Drexler
Middle/Intermediate School Band for a listen to
winter themed selections and holiday favorites.
Information phone: 563-774-3371.
Platteville High School Choir and Orchestra
Concert, Platteville High School, Platteville
December 12, 7 P.M. Gather at the home of the
Hillmen to enjoy winter themed selections and
holiday favorites performed by the Platteville
High School Choir and Orchestra. Information
phone: 608-342-4020.
Benton Junior and High School Christmas
Concert, Benton High School, Benton
December 13, 7:30 P.M. Gather at the home of the
Zephyrs to enjoy winter themed selections and
holiday favorites performed by Benton Junior
and High School musicians. Information phone:
608-759-4002.
Bellevue Meal site Christmas Dinner, Bellevue
Community Center, BellevueDecember 15,
12:30 P.M. Served downstairs at 1700 State Street.
$2.75. Information phone: 563-872-4666 for
reservation by December 12 at 9 A.M.
BTween the Pages Book Club, Carnegie-Stout
Public Library, DubuqueDecember 15,
44:45 P.M. A book club just for ages 912 years.
This months reading: The Case of the Missing
Marquess: An Enola Holmes Mystery by Nancy
Springer. Please register at the Youth Services
Help Desk and pick up a copy of the book.
Bellevue High School Band/Chorus Christmas
Concert, Bellevue High School, Bellevue
December 15, 6:30 P.M. Listen to Bellevue High
School musicians perform your holiday favorites.
Information phone: 563-872-4001.
Hempstead High School Winter Concert,
Hempstead High School, DubuqueDecember 15,
78 P.M. Gather at the home of the Mustangs
to enjoy winter themed selections and holiday
favorites performed by the Hempstead High
School Band and Orchestra. Information phone:
563-552-5200.
LEGO

Club, Carnegie-Stout Public Library

December 17, 12 P.M. LEGO

fans ages 712 are

invited to come to the library to build, create and
have fun. LEGOs

creations will be exhibited in

the Library. The program will be held in the Aigler
Auditorium on the 3rd floor. Space is limited and
registration is required. Please register by calling
the Library at 563-589-4225 and ask for the Youth
Services Help Desk at extension 2228. Donations
of LEGOs

are appreciated.
Hempstead High School Concert Choir
Performance, Emmaus Bible College, Dubuque
December 18, 7 P.M. Join the Hempstead High
School Concert Choir at Emmaus Bible College for
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Reflections in the Park, Louis Murphy Park,
DubuqueJanuary 1, 510 P.M. The hills of Louis
Murphy Park will be alive with glitter and glitz
as the glow of thousands of Christmas bulbs
and animated displays light up the annual
Reflections in the Park: A Hillcrest Lights
Festival. All new displays will be blinking their
colors and strutting their charm to an estimated
50,000 visitors. Cost: $8.00 per car. For more
information, call 563.583.7357 or visit Hillcrest
Family Services.
Martins Big Words, Multicultural Family
Center, DubuqueJanuary 4, 44:45 P.M.
Presented by the African American Museum
of Iowa for youth in K2nd grades. Join us as
we explore the life of Dr. King. Why do people
today still think his words are so important?
Students will work together to create a project
to keep Dr. Kings dream alive while they learn
cooperation and service. Free programs, call to
register.
Dubuque Winter Farmers Market, Colts Drum
and Bugle Building, DubuqueJanuary 7, 14, 21,
28, 9 A.M.noon. Winter Farmers Market every
Saturday morning. Warm and cozy setting where
30 vendors sell their homemade or homegrown
products. Breakfast and coffee is served. Every
Saturday morning NovemberApril with the
exception of Christmas and New Years. For more
information, see https://www.facebook.com/
DubuqueWinterFarmersMarket.
Platteville High School Band Concert, Platteville
High School, PlattevilleDecember 12, 7 P.M.
Gather at the home of the Hillmen to enjoy
winter themed selections performed by the
Platteville High School Band. Information phone:
608-342-4020.
Family Cooking Class, Multicultural Family
Center, DubuqueJanuary 12, 5:307 P.M. Learn
how to cook cuisine from all over the world in our
family cooking classes! Appropriate for families
with children age 8 and up. Free class, call to
register.
JANUARY
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service,
Multicultural Family Center, DubuqueJanuary
16, noon4 P.M. A day on instead of a day off.
Adult and family service project in honor of
Martin Luther King, Jr. Registration and lunch
begin at noon and then service from 14 P.M. Call
to register.
Lancaster High School Winter Band Concert,
Lancaster High School, LancasterJanuary 17,
7:30 P.M. Gather at the home of the Flying Arrows
to enjoy winter themed selections performed
by the Lancaster High School Band. Information
phone: 608-723-2175.
Family Reading Night, Multicultural Family
Center, DubuqueJanuary 19, 5:307 P.M. This
fun reading program is open to families with
children in K5th grades. The program begins
with dinner, then story time, followed by parent/
children activities. After the program, children
get to select a book to take home to add to their
own libraries. Dinner is provided, registration
required. Free program, call to register.
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Early Dismissal After-School Programs,
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium,
DubuqueJanuary 25, 24 P.M. The National
Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium offers
after-school programs that coincide with the
Dubuque Community School Districts early
dismissal days for the 2011-2012 school year.
All programs are planned by the Museum &
Aquarium education staff for students in
kindergarten through 5th grade and include
hands-on activities relating to the respective
programs unique theme as well as an afternoon
snack. Each program has a $10 charge per
student (for members) or a $12 charge per
student (for non-members). Register ahead of
time for each program in order to attend; the
cut-off for registration is the Monday prior to each
program date. For program details go to: http://
bit.ly/earlydismissal. Contact 563-557-9545,
ext. 213 to register.
Welcome Dinner, Multicultural Family Center,
DubuqueJanuary 26, 5:307:30 P.M. Open to
families that have moved to the community within
the last year. Program includes dinner and short
presentations from community organizations that
provide environmental, recreational, educational
programming and events for families, youth and
adults. Childrens activities provided for youth 4+.
Free event, call to register.
Lunar New Year Celebration, Divine Word College,
EpworthJanuary 28, 3 P.M. January 23, 2012, will
mark the beginning of the year of the dragon. In
an effort to teach the public about this important
tradition, Divine Word College will host a one-
day celebration on January 28, 2012, beginning
with a celebratory mass at 3 P.M. followed by a
banquet and entertainment, including dragon
dancers. This free event is open to the public, but
tickets are required. Contact Divine Word College
for more information at 563-876-3057 ext. 302.
a lovely holiday choral experience. Information
phone: 563-552-5200.
Las Posadas, Multicultural Family Center,
DubuqueDecember 19, time TBD. Explore the
meanings and traditions behind Las Posadas.
Call to register.
Dubuque Senior High School Winter Concert,
Senior High School, DubuqueDecember 19,
7 P.M. Gather at the home of the Rams to enjoy
winter themed selections and holiday favorites
performed by Senior High School musicians.
Information phone: 563-552-5500.
Galena Middle School Winter Concert, Galena
Middle School Gym, GalenaDecember 19,
7 P.M. Gather at the home of the Pirates to enjoy
winter-themed selections and holiday favorites
performed by Galena Middle School musicians.
Information phone: 815-777-3086.
Teens R Reading Book Club, Carnegie-Stout
Public Library, DubuqueDecember 19,
44:45 P.M. Area teens: check out this book
club designed for you! This months reading:
Death Cloud by Andrew Lane. Please register at
the Youth Services Help Desk and pick up a copy
of the book.
Night of the Luminaria, Downtown Galena
December 17, 69 P.M. One of the most beautiful
and romantic visions of the year. The streets,
steps and sidewalks of Galena will be lined with
nearly 5,000 candle-lit luminaries. Information
phone: 815-777-9050.
Kids Flick: Kung Fu Panda 2 (PG), Carnegie-Stout
Public Library, DubuqueDecember 21,
23:30 P.M. Join us for popcorn and a showing
of these feature films in the story time room.
For ages 612. This activity is free, but seating
is limited. Please register by calling the Library
at 563-589-4225 and ask for the Youth Services
Help Desk at extension 2228
Red Cross Blood Drive, Xavier Auditorium,
DyersvilleDecember 22, 2:306:30 P.M. To
schedule an appointment for a donation,
call Shirley at 563-875-6015 or e-mail
dyersvillegfwc@gmail.com to reserve a time;
however NO appointment is needed.
Kids Night, Culvers, GalenaDecember 27,
4:307:30 P.M. Coloring contest, prizes, balloons
and balloon sculptures. Information phone:
815-777-9401.
Teen Advisory Board, Carnegie-Stout Public
Library, DubuqueDecember 29, 45 P.M. What
programs would you like to see for teens at the
Library? What music titles and graphic novels
should we add to our collection? If you are
ages 12high school you can help make these
decisions and become a part of the Teen Advisory
Board. This is a lot of fun and a great opportunity
to earn volunteer credit for school. Call Sharon at
563-589-4225 x 2237.
New Years Eve Party, Knights of Columbus Hall,
DubuqueDecember 31, 6:30 P.M.12:30 A.M.
Join us for a fun-filled evening! Chicken and beef
dinner catered by J&D Mart from New Vienna
will start out the evening (eating at 6:30 P.M.).
Dance to the fabulous Legends, a 50s and
60s band. Between the hours of 7:008:30 P.M.
We will play CDs for anyone who wants to dance
to country music. The cost includes the dinner,
dance, party favors and a glass of champagne to
toast in the New Year!!! Semi-formal attire. Dance
is open to everyone from the tri-state area and
beyond. You dont want to miss this! Hope to see
you there!!! $25 advance ticket. Contact Vicki for
reservations/advance tickets at 563-599-4407.
New Years Eve Dinner & Party, Benjamins,
GalenaDecember 31, 7:30 P.M. New Years Eve
celebration with live entertainment by Ronnie &
the Rockits, special menu, champagne and party
favors to spark the celebration. Information
phone: 815-777-0467.
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