M E S A C OU N T Y

family
{CONNECTIONS} FALL 2009 Promoting Safe Nurturing Families

explore
{PAGE 06}
THE WORLD OF READING

ACTIVITIES
around town {PAGE 10}

2009
{PAGE 08}
BABIES
teenagers
we’ve got to
{PAGE 05}
be flexible

more!
plus much
Photo by Kelly Sparks, Smiles In There Photography (241-8250)

Bright Beginnings information is designed
for newborns through toddlers. Call us today
- we’ll give you a packet of powerful tools
{BOBBI KLINE}
Supporting Families
in Mesa County
Welcome to the Fall edition of the the most, Program C addresses posi-
Mesa County Family Connections. tive guidance and discipline, language,
Fall always seems to be a good time motor, cognitive, and social-emotional
for change, and here at Strong Fami- development. All three programs are
lies, Safe Kids we are taking steps offered in English and Spanish.
forward to making some new and excit- SNUGGLE-UP PROGRAM
ing changes. During this past year, Offers free Snuglis (front pack infant car-
we have surveyed numerous parents riers) to eligible families of newborns.
of children prenatal to age three and
PARENTING THAT WORKS
have asked them what programs they
Offers parent education classes in two
would like to have to help support their
distinct curricula. First is S.T.E.P. (Sys-
parenting of babies and toddlers. We tematic Training for Effective Parent-
have listened to their requests and are ing), and the second and newly added is
responding. We are eliminating some the Love and Logic curriculum. Both
past programs and starting the process classes are offered in English and Span-
of adding some new and exciting pro- ish, and meet the needs of three distinct
grams for parents. Although these new target groups: those parenting young
programs create opportunity, they also children (0-6 years), middle (7-13 years)
generate a need for additional fund- and teens (14-20 years).
ing, so we will start slowly and hope to
MESA COUNTY
grow them very soon. We will officially FAMILY CONNECTIONS
announce all the new changes in our Provides parenting information in a
January Family Connections issue. newspaper format, inserted quarterly
BRIGHT BEGINNINGS PROGRAM in the Grand Junction Free Press and
Offers parents support and information, otherwise placed throughout the commu-
providing free packets of valuable mate- nity. Content includes informative par-
rials designed for newborns to age three, enting articles and related, lists of local
and is offered in three separate phases: resources and free activities for families,
•Bright Beginnings Program A: Via
and business ads.

to help you get your baby started on a bright
beginning. We’ll meet you at home, work
or any other community setting that’s easy
home and group visits, Program A Bobbi Kline, executive director of Strong Fami-
targets parents of children ages 0-12 lies, Safe Kids. For more information on Strong
months and focuses on the celebra- Families, Safe Kids and our programs please
feel free to contact us at (970) 254-8240 or visit
tion of the birth, while providing par-
ents with information on community
our website at www.strongfamiliessafekids.com.

resources, health, immunizations,

for you. Get additional information at www.
brightbeginningsco.org.
•Bright Beginnings Program B: Also
•Bright Beginnings Program C: Again,
safety and childcare. Packets also
upcoming
include children’s books, a classical
music CD and high-quality early brain PARENTING CLASSES
and language development materials. OCTOBER 20 - NOVEMBER 13
EARLY / MIDDLE YEARS COMBINATIONS
6:00pm - 8:00pm
using home and group visits, Program
Chipeta Elementary School
B works with parents of older children
$40 - Free Childcare
(12-24 months) and emphasizes lan-
guage development/ encouragement, JANUARY 20 - FEBRUARY 11
critical to future school readiness and EARLY YEARS
literacy. 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Salvation Army
$40 - Free Childcare
the basis of contact is home and group
For more info or to sign up for a class, please call
visits with parents of children ages Strong Families, Safe Kids at 970-254-8240
24-36 months. Highlighting topics
that parents and experts say matter

dreamland: a collection of lullabies

in Grand Junction, Colorado Bright Beginnings is:
Strong Families, Safe Kids970.254.8240
serving Delta, Mesa, Montrose and Rio Blanco counties
In partnership with “How are the Children” and the
Mesa County Partnership for Children and Families,
we are selling lullaby CD’s. The CD’s were created
by local artist Bonnie Wixom and producer Ken Dra-
vis who donated their time and effort because they
value children and understand the importance of
music in a young child’s life. All proceeds from the
CD sales go towards the publication “Parent’s Re-
source Guide” given through our Bright Beginnings
program to parents of newborns in Mesa County.
You can purchase the CD’s at Hart Music (417 Main St.), KidzPlex (609 25 Road)
or online at www.mesacounty.us/dreamlandcd.aspx

2 {FAMILY CONNECTIONS} Fall 2009

 {TABLE OF CONTENTS} BILLIARDS
ARCADE
VIDEO & LOUNGE
RIDE OUR MECHANICAL BULL
CORPORATE EVENTS
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06 SWEET 16 PARTIES
Specials & Events Every
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2445 F 3/8 Rd, Grand Junction

Home of the Dance

02 Bobbi Kline Supporting Mesa County
Works Connection
DANCE
• Ballet • Pointe • Jazz • Tap • Lyrical
• Hip-Hop • Competition
04 Parents’ Corner Soothing Fussy Babies • Ballroom • Middle Eastern

WORKS
• Fitness Classes
• Separate Summer Sessions

05 Dads Teenagers Professional Standards • Quality

Instruction • Family Rates Kathryn Schulte, B.A. Dance
ASCAP, SESAC & BMI www.danceworkssgj.com

06 Book Reviews Explore Licensed by

Dance Educators of America
EST. 1980
243-5954
2893 North Avenue Grand Junction
08 Babies 2009 Mesa County Babies

ANGELO’S – A Paint Your

09 Non-Profit Spotlight Own Pottery and Glass Fusing Studio
with over 300 pottery choices and
endless glass fusing possibilities.
10 Calendar Activities Around Town Give a gift this Holiday with a personal touch-
Let us help you start early this year at Angelo’s.

%
PUBLISHER
Valerie J. Smith 1/2 10
or
MANAGING EDITOR
Tracy Dvorak
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Alexie Catalano
OFF OFF
studio fee glass fusing
SPECIAL SECTIONS COORDINATOR
Stacey Splude
CONTACT INFORMATION
Grand Junction Free Press
145 N 4th St Grand Junction, CO 81501 1 coupon per person please • • • • Expires 12/31/09
www.gjfreepress.com · 970.243.2200
2490 F Road, Suite 1, Grand Junction, CO 81506
Tel: 970-243-0886 | FAX: 970-243-0904
www.gjangelos.com | Email: angelos@gjangelos.com
www.gjfreepress.com {FAMILY CONNECTIONS} 3
{PARENTS’ CORNER | articles written by local parents}
SOOTHING A
fussy baby
m
Y YOUNGEST SON
just turned a
year and has
blossomed
into a playful,
laughing, clapping, soon-to-be toddler.
As a younger baby, he was what some
might call “high-needs.” While all
babies have immeasurable needs, my
son’s seemed to be rather difficult to
meet. He slept very little and insisted
on being carried around the majority
of his waking hours.
For the fi rst couple of months of his
life, he was content with rocking, so I
would rock him and read for hours a
day. As he grew, so to did his need for
stimulation; he really preferred to be
on the move (with me carrying him).
At fi rst this was extremely trying for
me, but I developed a groove and filled
my day with activities that satisfied
him while I was accomplishing some
things for myself at the same time.
When my husband got home, I could
4 {FAMILY CONNECTIONS} Fall 2009
hand the babe off and enjoy my alone /
dinner making time.
Both attachment parenting and
ethno pediatric research (an anthropo-
logical perspective) stress the impor-
tance of babywearing and carrying.
Babies like being in close proximity to
others, especially their mothers. It is
the only way that they know they are
safe. For thousands of years, human
evolution occurred while most humans
lived in tribal communities where a
whole village did raise the children
together and babies were held or worn
most of the day.
It is far more difficult to constantly
hold or carry a baby when you are
home alone all day. I highly recommend
getting out to visit family or friends at
least once a week. Most other adults,
whose shoulders and backs don’t ache
and are not sleep deprived, love the
opportunity to hold a baby for a couple
of hours. The adult company is also key
to keeping one’s sanity as a stay-at-
home mother to a baby.
People tend to be extremely drawn
to babies, so strapping your baby on
for an outing to the grocery store,
library, or other errand running can
also provide some adult interaction
and conversation as people congregate
around you to tell you how cute your
baby is, ask you questions about him/
her, and tell their own baby stories.
Another fun outing is to hit up neigh-
borhood yard sales. Not only are you
getting out of the house and interact-
ing with other adults, who know what
kind of good deals are to be had. It is a
great way to save money on clothes and
toys as long as you don’t get carried
away. It also follows the most impor-
tant rule of “going green”: REUSE.
There are an abundance of differ-
ent baby wearing products available
including slings, frontpacks, and back-
packs. Slings are ideal for newborns
that need a lot of neck support. Many
slings are designed to be used for car-
BY JENNIFER REILLY
rying babies in different positions as
they get older. Frontpacks provide
a lot of support for babies who can-
not fully support their heads for long
periods of time and are often designed
with support and padding for the adult
carrying the pack as well. Backpacks
are even more supportive for parents
and allow for more activity since there
is not a baby to bump into things. A
baby should be able to sit on his/her
own before going into a backpack.
Babywearing is also convenient
for getting some things done around
the house. I found it easy to vacuum,
water house plants, and water the gar-
den while wearing my son in a sling or
frontpack. I did find it difficult to do
dishes babywearing because of the
distance I had to be from the sink. I
avoided cooking while babywearing in
the off chance I would catch the sling
on fi re or get a baby hand too close to a
knife or a hot spot. I also avoided clean-
ing with any chemicals and dusting.
Another great chore to accomplish
while stimulating a baby is folding
laundry. I would turn on the radio,
lay my son on his back on the bed, and
dump the clean laundry beside him. I
would either play peek-a-boo or dance
the laundry over him as I folded it. My
son loved this and often made a game
out of trying to get a hold of the article
of clothing and pull it out of my hands.
Since babies like to be carried and
like to be in motion, it is easy to exer-
cise with them. The easiest way to do
this is simply to go on a walk. There
are also a variety of mother and baby
exercise books and videos available.
My son really enjoyed a postpartum
mother and child yoga workout that we
followed from a DVD. Check them out
during an outing to the library and fi nd
one that fits you and your baby’s style.
Towards the end of my alone time
with my babe, just before fetching
his older brother from school, I would
reward my hard work babywearing,
baby entertaining, and chore under-
taking with a warm and soothing bath
together. My son loves being in the
water, so this made for some pleas-
ant time together. While it was hard
to wash my hair and get totally clean
while supporting him, my feet got a
good soaking without the backache
from bending over the tub.

TEENAGERS
We’ve Got to be Flexible
t
I M E S H AV E C H A NGED
and being a parent of
a teenager is becom-
ing more difficult; our
children have access
to instant infor ma-
tion. Communication
between their friends
is easier, with use of cells phones that
can send pictures, utilize internet chat
and web cams. So with all this in mind
do we as dads have to be more control-
ling, maybe?
Parenting teenagers is not an easy
task, it is not like when they were 6
and they believed everything that dad
told them to be true. I remember how
my son and I loved to go the park to
play catch, or swing. Now he is grow-
ing up, wanting to be independent
and hanging out with dad is no longer
as important as hanging out with his
friends. Talking on the phone, going to
the movies, and making sure he has the
right clothes are more important. As
your adolescent grows and changes you
must also grow and change as well. In
order to keep a healthy bonding rela-
tionship you must change the way you
view and treat this maturing young
adult. They are no longer children, so
it will be very important as a parent to
acquire new skills of communication,
discipline, and confl ict resolution.
Society has instilled in us that we
are the head of household. We find
ourselves setting rules that we think
are promoting values, guidance, and
self discipline. While our teenage fam-
ily members are fi nding ways around
them or think that they are totally
unreasonable. How many times did
{DADS}
BY SA M RASCON
Robert L. Orr,
D.D.S., M.S.D.
Grand Junction
Orthodontics, PC
our dad say “no” we asked” why”,
he said because” I said so”. When we 500 Patterson Road
were teenagers we told ourselves that
we would never say that to our chil- Grand Junction, CO 81506
dren. Now we find ourselves saying
the same thing, or telling our children
(970) 243-1532
“don’t question me”? How many times
did we here our parents tell us “when
1-800-261-1532
you turn 18 you can move out and have
your own rules, this is my house and
my rules”, and how we could not wait
Experience Does Matter!!
until we moved out. Sometimes our Let Dr. Robert L. Orr and his staff show you the difference
own stubbornness can be our down fall; experience can make! Dr. Orr and his staff cumulatively have
children will model after their parents.
in excess of 275 years of combined orthodontic experience.
I was fi nding myself in some tough sit-
uations with my teenage boy. The more
I demanded from him, the more my son Children should be checked between ages 8 & 9 to determine
rebelled; I found that when I started to future needs as some problems are best treated early. However,
change how I viewed my son, and how Dr. Orr only starts orthodontic treatment at the appropriate
I communicated to him, his rebellious
time to get the best results in the shortest amount of time.
attitude faded. It can seem difficult at
times but, try to be more flexible. You Many young patients go into a growth-guidance program to
will fi nd that when you treat your ado- be seen periodically to assure baby teeth are being lost at the
lescent as a maturing young adult, the correct times to help guide permanent teeth for ideal eruption.
relationship with your teenager will This is where experience counts!
grow stronger. After all, we want them
to know that they can come to us when
they need some guidance, or positive Grand Junction Orthodontics offers state-of-the art
reassurance. “Wilckodontic” Orthodontic treatment to teens & adults in as
We have to remember that they are little as 7-9 months! For more information on “Wilckodontic”
no longer children; they are young treatment (www.fastortho.com) and all the benefits Grand
adults, we have to try to let go; but
Junction Orthodontics can offer your family please call for an
that it can be very difficult. It is a
tough balancing act, our children need appointment or visit their website.
us to be consistent and clear about www.gjtbraces.com
our expectations, rules and values.
We aren’t around our kids as much
anymore. All we can hope for is that
ue
A
they take what we have tried so hard Sm
as fathers to instill in them, and make ile Val
A dd e
good decisions when they head out on s to Your Fac
their own.
www.gjfreepress.com {FAMILY CONNECTIONS} 5
{BOOK REVIEWS}

explore
for the youngest
OUT CAME THE SUN
Compiled & Illustrated by
Heather Collins
There are many
nursery rhyme
books to choose

THE WORLD OF READING

f rom, but th is
one is a stand-
out. From wak-
i n g up i n t he
morning to
going to sleep at night, the 40 nursery
rhymes follow cuddly stuffed animals
through all the activities familiar to
young children. For example a mother
hen cooks breakfast while the wee ones
play “Pat-a-Cake.” Following break-

t
fast, a droopy eared little puppy looks
abashed because he ate a mop in “Hig-
gledy Piggledy Pop.” Collins has illus-
trated many well-received books for
HE HOLIDAYS WILL BE UPON children but this one is especially nice.
us before we k now it.
There are many children’s SLEEPYTIME RHYME
books with holiday themes and Written & Illustrated by Remy Charlip
the librarians at any of the Mesa Mother s w i l l
County Libraries will be happy to love this book
help you select books for Hallow- because it cap-
een, Thanksgiving, and Christ- tu r e s i n gen-
mas. But I would like to suggest tle colors and
poetry as an excellent way to words the love
celebrate holidays and everyday. she feels for her
If you are like most of us, your baby and the joy
first introduction to poetry was that love brings
Mother Goose and those short her. Babies and
verses are still among the best toddlers will love the sound of the
ways to engage young children’s pleasing rhyme. “I love/your special/
interest in rhyme and rhythm. face,/your eyes,/your mouth./I love/
But for many of us poetry eventu- your knees,/your north,/your south.”
ally became less about something The mother croons as she dances with
to enjoy and more about some- her child in her arms. This is a lovely
thing to endure. That is a shame book that could become a favorite bed-
because poets are still writing time story in the same vein as “Good-
and many of them are writing night Moon.” It would make a wonder-
for children. Adults in children’s ful baby shower gift if paired with a
lives are influential in so many soft blanket.
ways. A parent, grandparent,
aunt or uncle who takes the time preschool-kindergarten
to read poetry with children will
be laying the groundwork for a BOW WOW MEOW MEOW
lifetime of loving language in all Written & Illustrated
its forms. If you give a child a by Douglas Florian
book, make the commitment to It i s h a r d t o
read the poems aloud with them. imagine an
You will come away from the adult or child
experience enriched and so will who won’t laugh
the lucky child. The following at the 21 poems
books are among the hundreds and pictures in
available in libraries, bookstores, this collection.
or online. As always, these titles For example, a
have been librarian selected, painting of a poodle in a swirl of curls
grandmother recommended, and complete with pink hair bow is com-
child approved. plimented by a four line poem playing
off the words “oodles” and “poodles.”

6 {FAMILY CONNECTIONS} Fall 2009

 BY TERRY PICK ENS

“Poodles have oodles and oodles of verses are written in both English and
curls/which makes poodle boys look like Spanish and trip pleasingly from the
poodle girls./ the curls may have whirls, tongue in either language. But the best
while the whirls may have swirls./ Poo- parts of the book are the illustrations
dles have oodles and oodles of curls. which are wonderfully intricate. It is
fun for kids and adults to look together
KINDERGARTEN KIDS: RIDDLES, for the hidden letters, classic art, and
REBUSES, WIGGLES, GIGGLES, other items that may be found if one is
AND MORE willing to spend a little time looking.
Written by Stephanie Calemson & Since we live in dinosaur country, this
Illustrated by Melissa Sweet is defi nitely a must have book for Mesa
T he c he e r f u l County kids.
and or ig inal
poems i n th is TIE YOUR SOCKS AND CLAP
collection focus YOUR FEET, MIXED UP POEM
o n a c t i v i t i e s Written by Lenny Hort &
which are famil- Illustrated by Stephen Kroniger
iar to children T he humor in
in preschool and the poems is
k i nderga r ten. dep endent on
Attendance, word play that
recess, classroom pets, and classroom most ch ildren
learning are illustrated in bright colors fi nd irresistible.
with happy children going about their For ex a mple:
busy day. This book is a good choice to “Open your
read to little ones who may be appre- eyes and go to
hensive about starting school, but kids sleep,/ I’ll sing
who already attend school will love you to sleep
seeing their daily activities portrayed
in such a positive manner.
with
that
soothing
illustrate
screams.”
the book
The collages
are large and
Families come in different sizes. One size doesn’t fit all.
colorful and add to the book’s appeal. Mesa County Health Department
HOWDI DO Family Planning Clinic
Written by Woody Guthrie & READ-ALOUD RHYMES FOR THE
Illustrated by Vladimir Radunsky VERY YOUNG
A f unny little Selected by Jack Prelutsky &
yellow dog wear- Illustrated by Marc Brown
ing a plaid shirt This is an excel-
g r e at s ever y- lent book with
one he me et s over 200 poems
wh ile walk ing that will carry
down the street. c h i ld r en f r om
Ever y ma n, toddler to early
woman, child, and animal is met with elementary
a paw shake and a chorus of “Howjee, g r a de s . M a ny
heejee, hijee, hojee,/ Hodi do, sir, doo- of the poets will
dle-doo/Howdi doosle, doodle-doozie.” be fa m i l ia r to
The oversize illustrations are wildly the adults in a child’s life: Ogden Nash,
exuberant and when coupled with the A.A. Milne, and Robert Lewis Steven-
silly song make this book irresistible son among them. But these are not stale
fun for reader and listener. poems from long dead authors. Instead
they are lively and easy to read aloud.
kindergarten-3rd grade The book includes holiday poems and
poems for each month. Illustrator Marc
ALFA-DINO-BET Brown (creator of the “Arthur” books)
Written & Illustrated by L.C. Sugar captures the mood of each verse just
Sugar is a pen right. His illustrations sparkle with
n a me for two mischievous children and funny ani-
Thinking about birth control? We can help!
Grand Junction mals. Grandparents who are search- Many options are FREE for a limited time.
residents who ing for a book to give that will remain Pills, Depo, IUD, Vasectomies, Plan B, Evra, Nuva, Implanon, Tubals
put thei r ta l- memorable as the child grows should
ents together consider this exceptional compilation. Open Monday – Friday
to produce a
Daytime and Evening Hours Available
wonderful ABC book for kids who love Grand Junction resident Terry Pickens is
dinosaurs. Each letter is depicted in a freelance writer, former librarian, and a 248.6906
the shape of a whimsical dinosaur. The big fan of books for kids of all ages. Community Services Building, 510 29 1/2 Rd. (corner of North Ave and 29 1/2 Rd.), Grand Junction

www.gjfreepress.com {FAMILY CONNECTIONS} 7

 {BABIES}
Join us at the
Family Health Mesa County Babies
Fiesta
and find out!

Your child may qualify for health

care coverage under Medicaid or
Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+)
Many are eligible and don’t know it, including children 18 and younger and pregnant women.

Ava Jameson Matthews 05.15.09 Daniel Coconi 09.01.09

Saturday Oct 17 • 9am-2pm Parents: Vinton Hargan Matthews & Brittany Sarah Matthews Parents: Jose Coconi & Heather Perry

Lincoln Park Barn

Hilltop’s Child & Family Center staff will be on-site
to help you enroll in Medicaid or CHP+

WHAT TO BRING…
Q Original birth certificate
Q Photo ID
Q Last 30 days of paystubs Macie Lynn Rogers 01.03.09
Parents: Jared & Mickie Rogers

Call the Child & Family Center

683-2634
for more information Mallory Sievers 04.23.09
Parents: Stephen & Megan Sievers
2009

Aidan Fields 02.02.09 Zane Thomas Bloom Ramirez 7.14.09 Olivia Palmer 8.30.09
Parents: Shayne Heinecke & Jacob Fields Parents: Katie Bloom & Brian Ramirez Parents: Dean & Kristina Palmer

R. Darrell Sheldon 08.24.09 Logan Dean McIlvaine 08.29.09

Parents: Preston Sheldon & Desire Gonzales Parents:Charles McIlvaine & Khristina Kukus

Caleb Eugene O’Malley 09.11.09

Parents: Kevin O’Malley & Lisa Paxiao

Decker Scarrow 08.27.09 Ciro Augustine Beckner 08.09.09

Parents: Foley & Lori Scarrow Parents: Mark & Sara Beckner

8 {FAMILY CONNECTIONS} Fall 2009

 {NON-PROFIT SPOTLIGHT}
Mesa Developmental
Services/Toddler Program
t
HE FIRST THREE YEARS OF LIFE
a r e a p er io d of i nc r e d -
ible growth in all areas of a
baby’s development. Early
intervention is important
bec ause resea rch shows
that the fi rst three years are the most
important time for learning in a child’s
life. Providing developmental supports
and services early improves a child’s
ability to develop and learn. Also it
may prevent or decrease the need for
special help later. The goal of early
intervention is to “open a window of
opportunity” for families to help their
children with special needs to develop
to their full potential.
Me s a D evelopment a l S er v ic e s
Infant/Toddler Program provides sup-
ports and early intervention services
to families who have children birth to
three years of age with special needs
or who are demonstrating developmen-
tal delays. Children with special needs
or developmental delays sometimes
need extra support to fully enjoy, par-
ticipate, and learn in everyday rou-
tines and activities such as playing,
communicating with others, moving
around, eating, sleeping, bathing, etc.
The Infant/Toddler Program Team
works with families to support their
child’s learning and development in
everyday places where young children
spend time (home, childcare program,
parks/playgrounds and other places in
the community).
The team includes members from a
variety of professions and backgrounds
such as developmental intervention-
Elaina Teresa Vendegna 05.19.09
Parents: Eloy & Norma Vendegna
Jordan Bambino 09.02.09 Josiah Machost 07.20.09
Parents: Chris & Nichelle Bambino Parents: Jordan & Mable Machost
ists, occupational therapists, physi-
cal therapists, service coordinators
(case managers), and speech language
therapists. Every child who is eligible
for early intervention services has a
specific plan that identifies the child’s w w w. b e t h a n y. o rg / c o l o r a d o • 1 . 8 0 0 . 9 8 6 . 4 4 8 4
strengths and needs, the family’s con-
cerns and priorities, and the services
that will be provided to support the
child’s development. We Sell
A major component of the program
is the family involvement. Children Family Fun
learn best within their families and . dart boards . shuffle board .
within the routines and activities that . air hockey . pool tables .
are meaningful to them. Activities
and strategies are given to families to
work on specific areas of development
that can be done during the week.
These are individualized to capitalize
Western Slope
on those opportunities that are mean-
ingful to the child and a part of the
Billiards
regular routine of the family. In addi-
tion, the service providers can consult Mon - Sat 10a.m - 5p.m.
and/or work with other primary care- 970.242.2947
givers in the child’s life (childcare pro- 1910 N. 12th St., Grand Junction
Corner of 12th & Orchard
viders, grandparents, etc.). www.westernslopebilliards.com
Program services are provided at
no cost to families through a variety of
funding sources.
The prog ram is currently serv- Mesa Developmental Services
ing 110 children and families in Mesa
County with 40 more in the process of Child Find
being evaluated for eligibility for ser- )UHH GHYHORSPHQWDO
vices. Eligibility for services is deter-
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mined through an evaluation process
via Child Find. Anyone who has con- Infant & Toddler Early
cerns about his or her child’s develop-
ment can call 241-5403 for 0-3 year Intervention Program
olds and 254-5405 for children 3-5.
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If you have concerns about your birth to age three child’s
Jace Tucker Hogstad 09.09.09
Parents: Nick & Stacey Hogstad development, contact MDS Child Find at 241-5403.
www.gjfreepress.com {FAMILY CONNECTIONS} 9
{CALENDAR}
activities
family health fiesta!
SAT OCTOBER 17 | 9AM-1PM
FREE (For uninsured & under insured
families)
Lincoln Park Barn
• Health screenings
• Health Information
• Music
• Food
• Activities
• Books
Contact Marillac Clinic 255-1828
spooktacular
parade
SAT OCTOBER 31 | 4:30-6PM
Main Street
This is a FREE family fun event!
Ages 11 & under please
Downtown Grand Junction
becomes the place to be in town
for Halloween fun. Dressed from
head-to-toe in scary, creative or
just plain adorable costumes,
kids of all ages fill 6th Street for
the opportunity to participate in
a variety of activities, including
face painting, entertainment,
pumpkin and cookie decorating
and a costume parade. This is an
event for ages 11 and under.
10 {FAMILY CONNECTIONS} Fall 2009
wells fargo
tree lighting
FRI NOVEMBER 27 | 5PM
Wells Fargo Bank (4th & Main)
In the manner of Times Square,
the Wells Fargo Christmas Tree
and the rest of Main Street light
up to officially kick off the holiday
season in Downtown Grand Junc-
tion. The tree, located in front
of Wells Fargo Bank, 359 Main
Street, is lit when Santa arrives to
welcome the holiday season and
shoppers to Downtown Grand
Junction!
Santa visits with kids while every-
one enjoys their favorite Christ-
mas tunes. The event runs from
5 – 6 p.m., with the lighting itself
taking place around 5:30p.m.
parade of lights
SAT DECEMBER 5
Grand Junction Main Street
winter fest
SAT DECEMBER 5 | 1PM
Main Street
The annual Winter Festival keeps
shoppers warm and full be-
fore they rush home with their
treasures or settle down for the
best places to view the Parade of
Lights.
Main Street hums with more
activity and music as holiday
shoppers fill specialty stores
searching for gifts and local
non-profit organizations line the
sidewalks ready to sell hot drinks
and tasty snacks to weary buyers
and those lined up for the best
viewing places for that evening’s
Parade of Lights. The Winter
Festival begins at 1 p.m. and pro-
vides local non-profits with an
opportunity to raise money with
bake-sale type activities.
spirit of
christmas walk
SAT DECEMBER 5 | 1PM
Main Street
The annual Winter Festival
keeps shoppers warm and full
before they rush home with their
treasures or settle down for the
best places to view the Parade of
Lights.
Main Street hums with more ac-
tivity and music as holiday shop-
pers fill specialty stores searching
for gifts and local non-profit
organizations line the sidewalks
ready to sell hot drinks and tasty
snacks to weary buyers and those
lined up for the best viewing
places for that evening’s Parade
of Lights. The Winter Festival be-
gins at 1 p.m. and provides local
non-profits with an opportunity Students register based on age:
to raise money with bake-sale • Level A – tiny tots (ages 3-5)
type activities. • Level B – Grades K - 4
• Level C – Grades 4 – teen
• Adult (12+)
Creative Avenues is hosting a
creative avenues Holiday fun night for the kids
Dec. 11th from 6-9 p.m. Drop kids
MON & WED | 9AM-NOON (ages 3 yrs - grade 8) off while
TUES, THURS, FRI | 9AM-3PM parents enjoy a night in Down-
EVENINGS & SAT | OPEN (when town! $15 for the first child, $10
classes/workshops are in session) for each additional child.
128 S. Fifth St. (corner of 5th and
Colorado). A diverse offering of
classes for students of all ages.
Students can register for classes truck-n-treat
in four core areas: SAT OCTOBER 24 | 9:30-11:30AM
• Performing Arts
• Visual Arts Fruita Civic Center Parking Lot
• Activity/fitness Wear your costume and explore
• Enrichment classes unique vehicles.
 COUNSELING AND EDUCATION CENTER
“Counseling with a Difference”
Professional experienced Counselors
providing Counseling and

AROUND TOWN Therapeutic Support Groups to:

trick-or-treat street
SAT OCTOBER 31
Downtown Fruita
Visit the downtown businesses for
a lot of candy.
hometown christmas
& parade of lights
SAT DECEMBER 12
Downtown Fruita
Dusk Downtown Holiday cheer
and beautiful lights.
Individuals, Families, Children,
Adolescents & At-Risk Youth
Affordable Counseling
Sliding Fee Scale may apply
Medicaid, CHP+, and other insurances accepted
having a baby?
St. Mary’s offers a variety of
classes to help you prepare for
and take care of your new baby.
Classes are taught by certi-
fied childbirth Educators from 970.243.9539 • 2708 Patterson Rd • Grand Jct, CO • www.CECwecare.org
the Mesa County Childbirth
Education Association. Classes
include a six-week childbirth
series, Childbirth Express, Birth
Refresher, Young adult’s class,
Breast-feeding, Cesarean Section,
20% OFF
and Sibling Preparation. For
more information or to register
Entire Clothing Purchase*
call 244-BABY (244-2229) *excludes halloween costumes.

western
dinosaur journey botanical gardens &
museum of butterfly house
western colorado FIRST SUN OF EVERY MONTH
Free entry for the whole family
MON-SUN | 9AM-5PM Info: 245-3288
550 Jurassic Court
Fruita, CO | 970. 858.7282 545 North Ave | Grand Junction, CO | 970-242-2520
• $7 for adults
• $6 for seniors mesa county health
• $4 for children department
• $20 for immediate family groups
Did you know that most car seats
QUESTIONS ABOUT H1N1 &
• Free to members
are misused? The Mesa County
Combination tickets for Cross Or- Health Department wants all chil-
SEASONAL FLU?
chards, Museum of the West and dren to be safe in motor vehicles.
Dinosaur Journey: $12 for adults, The Mesa County Health Depart-
$10 for seniors, $8 for children ment offers free monthly car seat
safety checks. Call 254-4112 for
more information.
Be informed.
palisade olde
Be prepared.
fashion christmas borders
DECEMBER 11-13 FRI | 11AM
FRI DECEMBER 11 Free story time for children’s
Call 255-8655 for more info
Downtown Palisade
5PM Christmas Tree Lighting
6-9PM Art and Chocolate Walk
SAT DECEMBER 12 barnes & noble
Downtown Palisade TUES & WED | 9:30 & 10:30AM
11AM Kid’s Train Rides SAT | 10:30AM
11AM-4PM Olde Towne Market- Free story time for children
place – kids crafts booths
11AM-5PM Entertainments WEBSITES:
NOON-2PM Toy Run and Show & Mesa County Health Department: www.health.mesacounty.us
Shine Car Show Colorado Department of Public Health: www.cdphe.state.co.us/epr/h1n1.html
NOON-3PM Wagon Rides U.S. Health and Human Services: www.flu.gov
5:30PM Christmas Parade Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov/h1n1
Community Center
PHONE NUMBERS:
11AM-6PM Gingerbread House
Contest Mesa County Health Department: 248-6989
Chair 4 Studio Pre-recorded information about flu in Mesa County, vaccine availability and more.
2-4PM Santa Clause Colorado Department of Public Health Co_HELP: 1-877-462-2911 (Toll Free)
Talk to a live person about your flu related questions.
LOCAL MEDIA:
Stay tuned to local television news stations, radio programs and newspapers for
updated information and details about flu in our community, state and nation.

www.gjfreepress.com {FAMILY CONNECTIONS} 11

 Pie Rush TM

f The Best Pie in America™

lice o
Free s
The PIE RUSH™ is on
this WEDNESDAY!
Come in for a FREE
slice* of FRUIT PIE
with any puchase.

FREE
SLICE Valid at Glenwood and Grand Junction locations only.

*Free slice of double crust FRUIT PIE with any purchase. Dine-in only from 10AM to 10PM on Wednesdays.

Wednesday Limited time only. One slice perperson per purchase per visit. Not valid with Sized Right or Priced Right.
Not valid with other offers, promotions or discounts. Tax and gratuity not included.
© 2009 American Blue Ribbon Holdings, LLC VI-PRW-FN-6-09

COLORADO WEST

Woman Care P.C.

High and Low Risk, Complicated & Complete Obstetrical &Gynecological Care
Routine Obstetrical Services
Tennille Cloward, M.D.
Specializing in Advanced Gynecologic Barry W. King, M.D., FACOG
Laparoscopic Surgery
Ronald D. Ridgley, D.O., FACOG
Routine Prenatal Care David S. Robbins, M.D., FACOG
Ultrasounds Full Nurse Midwifery Services
Infertility Sue Hanson, CNM
Anita Sheetz, CNM
Novasure Procedures

Family Planning New Patients Welcome

The Essure System
970-243-7908
Well Woman Prevention Care
1-800-742-2299
Implanon Procedure 750 Wellington Ave. Suite 3-C Grand Junction, CO 81501

12 {FAMILY CONNECTIONS} Fall 2009