Local Kids January 2018

Volume 1, No.1 • January 2018Parents • Teachers • Caregivers • FamiliesMINDFULNESS IS NOW WHAT MAGICAL THINGSBEING TAUGHT IN SOME DO YOU INTENDOF OUR LOCAL SCHOOLS TO EXPERIENCE THIS YEAR?VISIT THE SUNRISE CENTERTHAT HELPS CHILDREN LEARNHOW TO DEAL WITH GRIEFFOLLOW A YOUNG MANTO THE HIGHLAND GAMES THATWERE HELD IN EUROPEFAMILIES ENJOYED THE HOLIDAYSEASON WITH PARADES ANDTREE-LIGHTING EVENTSLOCAL MUSEUMS GIVE KIDS AN 1OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN ABOUTOUR HISTORY AND RESOURCESJANUARY 2018 • Local Kids Magazine • Facebook@ Local Kids Magazine • (760) 559-9402 •

Welcome to Local Kids Magazine! “Hello” to all of you parents, ing ceremonies,grandparents, families, teachers, where childrencaregivers, and others who are delighted in vis-interested in making the lives of its from Santa.children the very best they can be! In addition, Website: are these great A while back, a local educator articles: www.LocalKidsMagazine.comdiscovered a copy of a kid’s maga- • Mindfulnesszine in another area of the United is now taught Published by Siverts PublishingStates. He brought me a copy, and in some of our Katrina Siverts Katrina Siverts, Publishersaid that something like this would local schools; Publisherbe a huge success in our area. (760) 559-9402 • A locally-raised young man who Fax (866) 242-2596 Siverts Publishing is already took 2nd place in the 2017 World E-mail:successful in printing two other Highland Light-Weight Games; [email protected]: Senior News (in it’s • The Sunrise Center in Apple Mailing Address20th year), and Desert News Post Valley helps children recover from Siverts Publishing(currently in year #7). the grief of losing a loved one; 14808 Choco Rd • Several “things to do” in our Apple Valley, CA 92307 Because of this experience, we area that are educational and fun Generalknow how to find just the right at the same time! Advertising Salescontent and distribution spots that I know that you will come toserve both readers and advertisers. love our new magazine! Your ideas Call Trina for Advertising and suggestions for content are (760) 559-9402 Readers will love our content, welcome, and I look forward towhich is a well-rounded mix of lo- hearing from you! [email protected] event coverage (with photos) I myself have an eight-year-oldand informative articles on sub- granddaughter, Angelina, who ap- © Copyright 2018, Siverts Publishing.jects that matter to families. We’ll pears on the cover of this very first Reproduction not permitted unlessalso be offering an event calendar edition of Local Kids Magazine. written permission is given by theshowing when and where to find I look forward to the exciting Publisher. Articles written under by-fun activities and sports events. future we will all share together. lines express the opinions of the writers Katrina Siverts, Publisher and not necessarily those of this paper, In this month’s issue, we have publisher or company.some photos from local eventsthat happened over the holidays,including parades and tree light-2 • JANUARY 2018 • Local Kids Magazine • Facebook@ Local Kids Magazine • (760) 559-9402

Table Of Contents Volume 1, No.1Sunrise Center Helps Kids - Pg. 2 January 2018 Parents Teachers Caregivers FamiliesHighland Games - Page 3Fam Spot Grand Opening - Page 4Mindfulness in Schools - Page 5Jamboree on the Air - Page 6 FRONT COVER MODEL AngelinaFamily Emergency Prep Page 7 Whitford PHOTO BY Trina SivertsPhysical Activity & Kids - Page 8 JEWELRY NecklaceFamily Real Estate - Page 10 “Mr. Wiggles” Park Lane JewelrySafe Routes Local Sports Schedules Coming Soonto School -Page 13 The editors schedules and of Local Kids sign-up dates. Magazine We are also know how im- asking thatHoliday portant youth to inform parents, you, the read-Parades sports and other teachers and care- ers of this newPage 14 fitness activities magazine, help figure into the givers of opportu- in providing us development of nities for children any information today’s healthy to participate in you may have forTree children. organized sports upcoming sportsLightings We are gath- p r o g r a m s a n d schedules or sign- ering informa- other activities, ups by emailingPage 15 tion in an effort including game or calling us at: Email: [email protected] Phone: Brian 760.269.2714JANUARY 2018 • Local Kids Magazine • Facebook@ Local Kids Magazine • (760) 559-9402 • 3

Sunrise Center in Apple Valley Helps Children Cope with GriefSunset Hills Children’s Foundation Sponsorships from local companies and adults. It gives them a place to workopened the Sunrise Center in October and individuals are still being accepted out their feelings with peers who are2016, kicking off with a grand opening to help in creating theme room. going through the same thing.celebration and open house. The Sunrise Center offers support For more information, call MondayThe non-profit center offers activities groups and counseling for pre-school- through Friday (760) 247-0155, or visitand counseling that help children deal ers, elementary school youngsters, teens www.sunsetchildren.org/sunrise-center.with grief over thedeath of a lovedone, such as par-ent, grandparentor sibling.Sunrise Cen-ter exec. directorJennifer Hernan-dez said the cen-ter serves to bringhope and healingthrough groupcounseling ses-sions and othertherapies. The Sunrise PHOTOS BY TRINA SIVERTS Victor Valley Global Medical Center sponsored this “hospital room” to help children deal with that being theCenter offers The main room at the Sunrise Center was spon- last place they may have seen their loved one.3,500 square feet sored by the Optimist Club of Apple Valley.of space, including individual “themed”rooms that are used for different activi-ties.A group area has tables and chairswhere kids can draw or make crafts,sponsored by Optimist Club of AppleValley. There is a dress-up area withcostumes that allow kids and teens usetheir imagination as they think aboutthe person who died.Another room has a corner made tolook like a hospital room, because manytimes that is the place they last saw theirloved one. The corner was donated byVictor Valley Global Medical Center.A “Volcano Room” has paddedwalls for punching, and a Game Roomalso helps grief-stricken individualsto physically get their emotions out. ASplatter Room is in place where par-ticipants can throw paint on the wallsto release feelings.Music therapy and a library filledwith books about grief are featured.Dress up costumes allow kids to use theirimaginations about their loved one.4 • JANUARY 2018 • Local Kids Magazine • Facebook@ Local Kids Magazine • (760) 559-9402

Young Man Earns Second In Highland Games Championship Karl Gehrke, a Serrano High as weaponry or defense articles.School graduate (2007), competed in Karl Gehrke Competes in the High- Karl currently lives and works inthe 2017 World Highland Lightweight land Games, held in Gyor, HungaryGames Championship in Gyor, Hun- area at Moorpark had many Highland Arizona and competes in Highlandgary on October 22, 2017 taking second Games implements around the field Games and Arm Wrestling events.place. In September, he competed in the that encouraged the athletes to “try This all started because of athletic in-U.S. National Highland Lightweight something new.” Karl continued as a volvement and commitment at the highGames in Tulsa, Oklahoma and finished college thrower at Northern Arizona school level.third which allowed him to compete for University (NAU).the U.S. at the World Highland Games. PHOTOS PROVIDED The Highland Games are com- Karl has been competing in High- posed of nine throwing events, how- Gehrke became involved and com-land Games for 10 years. In the past ever, at the World Highland Games, mitted to athletics in high school.year, he entered the lightweight division only eight events were contested.for men who are under 200 pounds. All the events can be traced back roughly 1,000 years. Many were used At the World Highland LightweightGames Championship, Karl took firstin two events: Open Stone weighing16 pounds for a distance of 44 feetand the Weight Over Bar weighing 42pounds for a height of 17 feet. He gota Personal Record (PR) in the LightWeight Hammer weighing 16 poundsfor a distance of 106 feet. The athletewho earned first beat Karl by one pointoverall. Karl started throwing the Discussand Shotput at Serrano Hight Schoolin 2006, his junior year. Karl continuedthrowing at Moorpark CommunityCollege, where Coach Bob McCaywas a former Olympic thrower and aScot with ties to throwing for the Scot-tish Highland Games. The throwingJANUARY 2018 • Local Kids Magazine • Facebook@ Local Kids Magazine • (760) 559-9402 • 5

Family Assistance Program Celebrates Opening of FAM Spot Victorville’s Family Assistance Pro-gram held a fundraiser comedy showat the Wine Seller in Apple Valley onDec. 12, and, the next day had an openhouse for their new “FAM Spot” youthdrop-in center. FAM Spot provides a positive envi-ronment and offers tools to help youthreach their full potential, in a safe envi-ronment to build healthy relationships. Activities include educational,theme park and sport field trips, onlinetutoring (by School-On-Wheels) andcommunity involvement and outreach,all at no cost to the youth. A rec roomand computer lab include free snacks Mitzy & the Gift Box Dignitaries and the local community at the ribbon cutting for Fam Spot.Written by local author Melissa Purdy and WiFi. Youth ages 12-21 can hang and a Homeless Youth Street Outreach Local author Me- Tuesday – Saturday from 2pm-8pm. Team and Drop-in Center. lissa Purdy has written a chil- Every Thursday at 3:30 are alter- They provide assistance with restrain- dren’s book en- nating between the two topics: Anger ing orders, advocacy, homelessness, titled “Mitzy and Management and Healthy Relation- homeless prevention, rapid re-housing, the Gift Box.” It ships classes. They can also complete preventative services through teen vio- tells how faith can volunteer hours for probation or school lence classes, family/group/individual move mountains purposes at The FAM Spot. counseling, supervised visitation, and and bring healing the distribution of household commodi- to the sick. The joy Since 1985, Family Assistance Pro- ties are just some of the services we pro- gram has been providing shelter and vide to our community in need.of the Lord is discovered in different advocacy services to victims of domes-ways. The story of the Nano angels tic violence, and has grown into a larg- Understanding the diversified needstells one way joy can be released. Chil- er shelter, a separate outreach office, of the community, they offer classes,dren will experience the child-like faith transitional housing program, satellite advocacy, and offer various services inwe have when believing that God has offices in the cities of San Bernardino both English and Spanish.the answers for life’s tough situations. and Fontana, and recently several newThe book is available at Amazon.com. programs: Community Health Workers The Fam Spot is located at 15075 7th for the LGBT Community, a runaway/ Street, Victorville, CA 92395. For more homeless youth shelter in Redlands, information on all programs, call (760) 843-0701, or visit www.familyassist.orgFundraising Opportunity!Tired of buying wrapping paper & cookie dough as a fundraiser? Now you can purchase some- thing you really love & still donate to your children’s schools/programs! Call Donna at (909) 331-2644 to find out about Park Lane Jewelry’s amazing fundraising programs!d Donna Drover, Division Manager - Park Lane Jewelryon (909) 331-2644 www.parklanejewelry.com/rep/donnadroverll Official jewelry for Dancing with the Stars & E Red Carpet 6 • JANUARY 2018 • Local Kids Magazine • Facebook@ Local Kids Magazine • (760) 559-9402

Ambassadors Unlimited Teaches Mindfulness and Tools for SuccessAmbassadors Unlimited, Inc. is a non- of classes, students are invited to a monthlyprofit that teaches life improvement skills in reunion with other students where they canschools for children, and in special classes share their successes and also get help withfor adults in the local community. challenges they may be facing. It’s a greatFor children, Amassadors contracts with feeling to have like-minded people to discussschools to teach Mindfulness to students in life’s situations with.the classroom starting with second grade Tools 1A & 1B graduates may alsoand upwards. choose to move into a Level II membershipTeachers also learn how Mindfulness in the Ambassadors Unlimited program.brings less disruptions to their classroom Participants in Level II work with a Men-environment. Comments from educators say tor to develop advanced skills for gettingthey get 30 minutes more actual “teaching” Ambassadors Unlimited life coaches what they want out of life, as well as ways totime in the classroom since implementing teach skills and share successful strategies solve challenges they may be facing.the mindfulness program. that allow you to trust yourself more and With the help of trained Tools for SuccessMindfulness is simply learning to pay thrive on your own. Our friendly, caring, and mentors, a “mentee” will learn to use evenattention to experiences in a way that allows enthusiastic coaches create a safe and sup- more advanced mental techniques toward aa person to respond rather than react. It is a portive environment where you’ll feel com- more rewarding life experience.quality of inner-stillness that is always avail- fortable working on your self-improvement. Ambassadors Unlimited, Inc. has beenable, even when life circumstances feel out Tools for Success students learn tech- dedicated to developing human minds sinceof control and chaotic. niques they can use to attract anything they 2011. It was founded by Charles Gehrke, aWhile being mindful, a person is aware want into their lives, including happiness, highly credentialed teacher with a Mastersof, and pays attention to, everything around health, fun, abundance and more. degree in Education. Charles trains facilita-them, in addition to their thoughts and In Tools 1A & 1B, participants learn the tors to teach proven educational techniquesemotions. Participants also remain aware basics of how the brain works, how to stay to instruct both children and adults in hisof their five senses of sight, hearing, smell, healthy, and develop skills to overcome past life-changing curriculum.taste and touch. situations that may still pop-up to cause All life coaches subscribe to the sameStudents learn to see their experiences negative emotions. philosophy to teach life skills and mindwithout judging them so they can respond The 4-week class teaches participants to development and they go through a rigorouswith intention rather than react impulsively. work with their brains to manifest anything, screening process before they join the team.Junior high and high school teens can and goes over the intuitive body with it’s If you would like to see Mindfulnesschoose to participate in a special “tools for “second” brain that keeps the body working taught in your child’s classroom, talk to thesuccess” course similar to the adults’version. well. They will also find out who they really school’s principal or head administrator, whoFor grown-ups, Ambassadors Unlimited, are and why they are here on Earth. must approve the program.Inc. offers the Tools For Success course. It A four-week Tools 1A class is scheduled During the Tools course, they develop ais designed to develop the mind to build sense of ease about life as they discover skills in Hesperia for Mondays, Feb. 5,12,19 &confidence, motivation, focus, balance and they weren’t even aware of! 26 from 6-7:30pm. Call Charles for moreclarity to their life experiences. Once graduated from the Tools 1 series information at (760) 963-1216.JANUARY 2018 • Local Kids Magazine • Facebook@ Local Kids Magazine • (760) 559-9402 • 7

Jamboree on the Air Helps Scouts Learn About Amateur Radio The Boy Scouts Jamboree on the resulted in penAir event was held on the campus of pals and links be-Apple Valley Christian School over the tween scout troopsweekend of October 21-22. that have lasted many years. There Many scouts - boys and girls - are no restrictionsturned out to learn more about amateur on age or on theradio operation, equipment and the fun number of partici-and value of learning HAM radio. pants, and little or The international Jamboree on theAir (JOTA) provides the opportunity for no expense, andmillions of Scouts around the world to the radio stations Scouts learn about HAM radio operation and equipment duringmeet on the air via Amateur Radio. This are operated by a Jamoboree on the Air event held on the Apple Valley Christianwas the 60th year; JOTA began in 1958. licensed amateur School campus in October 2017. radio operators. Normally when Scouts want to meetyoung people from another country, Many Scoutsthey think of attending a World Jam- and leaders holdboree. But few people realize that each licenses and haveyear more than a million Scouts “get their own stations,together” over the airwaves for JOTA. but most partici-During the 2014 event, worldwide pate in JOTA contact the Victor Valley Amateurscouting participants numbered 1.1 through stations Radio Club (K6QWR) at P.O. Box 91,million Boy Scouts and 200,000 Girl operated by lo- Apple Valley, CA 92307, or visit theirScouts, for a total of over 1.3 million - cal radio clubs. next general club meeting on Februarythe largest scouting event in the world. Some operators 13 at 7 p.m. at Sitting Bull Academy,Modern technology offers Scouts use television or 19445 Sitting Bull Road, Apple Val-the exciting opportunity to make friends computer-linkedin other countries without leaving home. communications. Girl Scouts Amateur ley, CA 92308. You JOTA allows scouts Radio Badge. can also visit the Girl Scouts club’s website at: to speak to each can also learn about and earn a badge www.vvarc.org for other by means of for the fundamentals of radio commu- more information Amateur Radio nication and wireless technology and (see ad below). (HAM) and ex- take action in their communities to apply change experiences communications to connect people, pro- If you live in and ideas via radio vide safety, and explore related careers. Spring Valley Lake waves. The first For more information on next year’s you may be inter-Boy Scouts Ama- JOTA contacts have event, and other HAM radio programs, Jamoboree on the Air ested in their clubteur Radio Patch. 60th Year patch. (see ad on page 9).American Art & Frame Join the Victor Valley Amateur Radio Club Classes & Testing to Become an Operator Monthly Educational Presentations at Meetings Learn more at the next general club meeting at Sitting Bull Academy on Tuesday, Feb. 13 at 7pm, 19445 Sitting Bull Rd, Apple Valley 92308 Victor Valley Amateur Radio Club www.vvarc.org K6QWR, P.O. Box 91 Apple Valley, CA 92307Fine Custom Picture Framing• Originals • Photographs • Posters •Limited Edition Prints • MemorabiliaEsFtirmeeates • Stitchery & Crafts • of1S0t0y0le’ss • Any Kind of Art or Decor •We only use the the finest materials in all of our framing workServing the local community since 198620601 Hwy 18, Apple Valley, CA 92307 Call Today! (760) 596-4825 17189 Yuma St. #1, VictorvilleThom Bond (760) 242-8002 Owner8 • JANUARY 2018 • Local Kids Magazine • Facebook@ Local Kids Magazine • (760) 559-9402

Create an Emergency Prep Plan for Your Family Today Preparedness is everyone’s job. Not Learning correct fire extiguisher operation. and hard to forget.just government agencies but all sectors of In the event of asociety - service providers, businesses, civic plan in place. It’s possible to panic during house fire, plan aand volunteer groups, industry associations an emergency, therefore prepared mentally safe meeting spotand neighborhood associations, as well as and physically will enable you to keep your nearby (neighbor,every individual citizen - must plan ahead family calm, and most importantly, safe. The relative). For afor disaster. During the first few hours or plan includes a disaster supply kit, as well as larger scale emer-days following a disaster, essential services any emergency essentials. Emergency pre- gency, choose amay not be available. People must be ready paredness supplies should also be arranged school or officeto act on their own. and easily accessible. While your family’s where the family Consider becoming an emergency plan will be unique to you, there can report, and also amateur radio operator In our local area, we often think of are a few general points that will help to best include an out-of-state contact person, usu-earthquakes as the main threat of disaster, prepare you for success. ally a relative. Sometimes local phone linesbut fire, high winds, flooding and toxic are blocked but out of state phones work.waste spills (from train derailment or big Creating a disaster supply kit is essen-rig overturning) are also real possibilities. tial, and you stock it with medical supplies, Consider investing your time and be- medications, non-perishable foods (like come an amateur (HAM) radio operator, or In the event of an emergency, natural granola bars, dried fruits, nuts), water, bat- take a CERT class to learn about emergencyor otherwise, it is important to make sure teries, blankets, clothing, and other items like preparedness and helping your communitythat your family’s basic needs are being met a dust mask or bandanna, space blanket or in the event of a disaster. Several amateurand that they are safe. Most emergency prep small tent, etc. Leave out luxury items not radio clubs operate in our area, including theprofessionals now recommend more than the needed in times of crisis. Victor Valley Amateur Radio Club (VVARC)72 hours of food, water and supplies - this and the Spring Valley Lake Amateur Radiohas been increased to two weeks minimum Develop a plan that is as simple as Club (SVLARC).- and also applies to your pets. possible using places that are very familiar Boy Scout and Girl Scout programs are The number one criteria is to have a helpful in teaching self-sufficency skills and offer badges as rewards for learning them.CERT trainees receive some of this equipment. Many scouting programs also coordinate with their local CERT programs to have youth receive emergency prep training. Contact Boy Scout Troop # 357 by email at [email protected]. There are many ways to be better pre- pared for emergencies and disasters. See the advertisements on pages 8 and 9 for more information on training that is available. APPLE VALLEY Call Joseph Ramos (760)240-7000 x7890 [email protected] VICTORVILLE Dana Wellborn (760) 955-5232 [email protected] BARSTOW Dale F. Milligan (760) 985-5513 Other areas: call your city, county or fire department SVL Amateur Radio Club We Are Seeking New Members from the Spring Valley Lake Community, and Guests from Anywhere Are Welcome to Attend a Meeting. Join Us and Find Out What Amateur Radio is About! www.svlarc.org Membership meetings are held the 1st Thurs. of each month at 7p.m., in the SVL Community Building, 12975 Rolling Ridge Dr., SVL. All HAM enthusiasts are welcome. Contact: [email protected] 2018 • Local Kids Magazine • Facebook@ Local Kids Magazine • (760) 559-9402 • 9

Ten Benefits of Physical Activity for Your ChildBy Brian Eudy younger generation is a statistic and we As a CrossFit trainer with experi- Kids do bear crawls at Alpha Omega do nothing about it. Working with chil- Fitness. This strengthens and increases dren who aren’t involved with sports isence in coaching young athletes on the endurance in arms, shoulders and chest, important this way they could becomefield as well as in the gym, it is clear and improves total core function. active so they don’t add to the obesityto me that physical activity is crucial problem. Overweight kids will lackin developing successful athletes. But ing them running techniques to their confidence and having them exercisewhat about the child who doesn’t par- hand eye coordination all while keep- will build confidence because they willticipate in sports? What are the benefits ing them safe is the ultimate goal. In or- accomplish things they never thoughtof them developing a fitness routine? der for all this to tie together the athlete they could” and parent must be able to trust their I asked this question of Vincent trainer/coach. Knowing a young athlete I also spoke with Trav Hart, an ex-Garcia, owner of Alpha Omega Fitness is in good hands will help this training perienced local personal trainer whoin Victorville. He has built a business process and will make it more fun.” also has experience training kids. “Asthat has had success with youth sports Surprisingly, the classes aren’t just at- a Father of 3 girls and Footwork Spe-classes being held daily.“Young ath- tended by kids who also participate cialist/Personal Trainer I can honestlyletes want to do their best at whatever competitively in sports. say training at a young age builds suchsport they play. Giving them the proper a great foundation for good mechan-tools they will need to excel at their “Getting a child who isn’t involved ics,” Trav continues. “Setting a founda-sport is what it’s all about. From teach- in sports some training is always good. tion early is key to preventable injuries Not only for their body but for their self which are learned through proper me-Battle ropes work the muscles in the esteem. Kids now a days love video chanics built through physical activity.”abs, back and glutes, and incorporating games, cell phones and staying to them-movements, such as jumps, lunges, and selves. Doing something other than What does the medical communitysquats work the legs, too! play video games is a huge confidence have to say about physical activity in builder. We live in a society where the kids? According to the American Med- obesity rate is higher then ever and our ical Association here are the top 10 benefits of physical activity in all kids: 1. It strengthens the heart. The heart is a muscle. Like other muscles, its per- formance improves when it’s regularly challenged by exercise. The heart re- sponds to exercise by becoming stron- ger and more efficient. Strengthening the heart muscle can help ward off heart disease -- the leading cause of death in the United States, according to the U.S. Continued on next page10 • JANUARY 2018 • Local Kids Magazine • Facebook@ Local Kids Magazine • (760) 559-9402

Alpha Omega Fitness Offers Workouts for KidsDepartment of Health and Human Ser- bloodstream and use it for energy. This is sedentary, he tends to be taking invices -- even in early childhood. can reduce a person’s risk of develop- more calories than are needed. These ing diabetes. unused calories accumulate as fat. A 2. It helps keep arteries and veins person who is physically active mayclear. Exercise reduces the amount of 5. It controls weight. When a person have a deficit of calories, which takesharmful cholesterol and fats in a per- fat away and lowers weight. Loweredson’s blood. It increases the flexibil- Brian Eudy helps a student do the shuffle weight is good for the heart and can beity of the walls of blood vessels, and exercise, a lateral motion that warms up beneficial in people with diabetes.helps to lower blood pressure. This can glutes, hip flexors, quads, calves andreduce a person’s risk for heart attack hamstrings, increases agility, coordina- 6. It strengthens bones. Just as mus-and stroke. tion and provides a good cardio workout. cles grow stronger when physically stressed, bones also respond by getting 3. It strengthens the lungs. Working stronger. Exercise increases bone den-hard increases lung capacity, and their sity, which helps prevent osteoporosis,efficiency in moving air in and out of a condition in which bones lose den-the body. As a result, more oxygen is sity, weaken, and become porous anddrawn into the body and more carbon fragile.dioxide and other waste gases are ex-pelled. Regular exercise helps prevent 7. It helps prevent cancer. Peoplethe decline in oxygen intake that occurs who exercise regularly have lower in-naturally with age or as a result of in- cidences of cancer. The cancers mostactivity. affected include colon, prostate, uter- ine, and breast cancers. 4. It reduces blood sugar levels. Ex-ercise prevents sugar from accumulat- 8. It regulates blood pressure. Exer-ing in the blood by triggering muscles cise has been shown to reduce stressto take up more glucose from the levels. As the levels of stress in a per- son’s body subsides, his blood pressure and his risk for heart disease decline. 9. It improves energy levels. Regu- lar exercise often makes people feel more energetic, allows them to be more active, and reduces the likelihood that they’ll tire during the day. 10. It enhances emotional well-be- ing. Most people report that they feel calm and have a sense of well-being after they exercise. Exercise, accord- ing to one theory, releases beta-endor- phin, a natural substance in the body that is hundreds of times more potent than morphine. Another theory points to serotonin as the cause of the exer- cise high. Increased levels of serotonin in the central nervous system are as- sociated with feelings of well-being, heightening of appetite, and lessening of mental depression. The weight loss that accompanies exercise can also cause people to feel better about them- selves. Help your children on the road to fit- ness by visiting Alpha Omega Fitness in Victorville. They offer programs to help kids stay fit with good exercise routines and expert trainers. Alpha Omega is located at 12284 Industrial Blvd, Victorville, CA 92395. Say you saw this article in Local Kids Magazine for a FREE one- week unlimited classes at Alpha Omega Fitness! (760) 596-4469 All-c-o-n-t-e-n-t -h-e-re-,-i-n-c-lu-d-in-g--a-d-v-ic-e--fr-o-m--d-o-c-to-r-s-a-n-d--other health professionals, is considered as opinion only. Always seek direct advicefrom your own doctor in connection with questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others. Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics; American Medical Association; U.S. Department of Health and Hu- man Services. Reviewed 2/02 by Jane Forester, MD.JANUARY 2018 • Local Kids Magazine • Facebook@ Local Kids Magazine • (760) 559-9402 • 11

What Families Look for When Buying a New Home Traditionally, when people with and laundry baskets, and the garage should A ‘mud room’ is nice, with achildren have looked to buy a new be attached with a walk-in area to the laun- bench and some storage for shoeshome, they were more concerned dry for muddy kids. and hardwood or laminate floorswith neighborhood schools, walk- where you can drop everythingability and convenient shopping from backpacks to jackets. Makethan with the actual layout of the it inside a separate entrance to thehome they’d occupy. house from the main one so that guests don’t see it. But that is changing from whatthey looked for 10 years ago, Parents know all too well thatwhen families were looking for “kids come with clutter,” there-square footage and a large yard. fore parents want lots of built-inNow, they are looking at the con- storage in bedrooms, spaces un-figuration of the home, with open der stairs and hidden storage be-floor plans rather than separate hind bookshelves to pile toys anddining and living rooms. clothes when company comes. They like to see a larger kitch- As kids get older, some fami-en, and often want not just one lies want separate living areas forlarge central island, but two is- teens and adults. Young familieslands. That’s because kitchens are desire to be on the same floor, butwhere everything happens, and the kids as the kids get older, parents mayuse the islands now for breakfast, lunch want a master retreat on the mainand dinner. floor, and bedrooms for the teens on another floor or wing. Separate home offices are out too,replaced by an office nook off the main Advertise Your Real Estate Businessliving space so that parents can keeptabs on what kids are looking at online. Call Donna Drover today to advertiseA family office should be very visible your business to families in thewith a direct sightline to the kitchen. Donna ilsocaanl HexigpherDieensceertdaardeav.ertising, Also popular are: a large kitchen marketing, and media specialist.space, open floor plan and even laun-dry space on the same floor with room We offer ads from as small as a businessto fold laundry so parents can keep an card in our Agent & Affiliate businesseseye on everything. directory, all the way to full page. Location of the garage also counts Advertise your family-friendly listings! Donna Droverwith many moms and parents, because Donna Drover, Real Estate Advertising Specialistif there are stairs to and from the ga- (909) 331-2644 - Email: [email protected], are you really going to be will-ing to go up and down them carrying achild in from the car? Parents want an open area floor planwith wide stairs for carrying little ones Got Family-Size Home Listings?12 • JANUARY 2018 • Local Kids Magazine • Facebook@ Local Kids Magazine • (760) 559-9402

Downpayment Assistance and Home Repair Program Are you renting a place but dream- to be pre-qualified for a conventional occupied, single-family residentialing of a home to call your own? Does fixed rate first mortgage and to calcu- properties within town boundaries.your house need repairs that you can’t late the level of assistance to be pro- There are no required payments dur-afford? You may qualify for help to vided by the Town. ing the 30-year term of loan, but themake these dreams come true. The loan becomes due if the property isTown of Apple Valley has more than $2 Residential Rehabilitation Loan sold, transferred, no longer the pri-million in grant funds to help with the Program - Apple Valley residents mary residence or refinanced for cashpurchase or rehabilitation of a home in who already own a home may qualify out. The applicant must completethe form of 30-year deferred, 0% inter- for up to $20,000 for eligible repairs. an application packet and provideest loans. Known as the Residential Rehabilita- evidence of income, show respon- tion Loan Program (RRLP), money is sible credit history, and be current on Downpayment Assistance - While provided to address health, safety and house payments, property taxes andprevious assistance was limited to se- code violation issues, energy conser- insurance.lected areas of town, the 2013 Cal vation, weatherization, accessibilityHome award provides the first town- and deferred maintenance. Eligible Residents interested in participatingwide down payment funding source in items include, but are not limited to: in either loan program may call (760)nearly a decade. Low to moderate in- roofing, heating and air conditioning, 240-7000 X 7919 for further informa-come first time homebuyers may be eli- evaporative coolers, doors and win- tion. Download program brochuresgible for up to $55,000 to buy a home dows, painting, flooring, insulation, and additional information at www.with a purchase price that does not ex- plumbing, and electrical work. AVHousingPrograms.org - look underceed $183,000. The property must be Community, then Housing Programs.a fee simple single family residence in The work must be done on owner-the incorporated area of Apple Valley.Manufactured and mobile homes on Realtor Michelle Meishay Specializes inindividually owned parcels are eligible Property Management in the High Desertif they are on a permanent foundation.An additional $1 million in funding re- Michelle Meishay has worked in Services in-mains available for homes purchased real estate for 30 years, and has special- clude rent collec-within the eligible target area. ized in residential property management tion, bookkeeping, for the past 27 of them. lease compliance, Interested buyers should contact a tenant relations,Town-approved participating lender Her first priority is to provide stellar emergency re- customer service to both the owner and sponse, leasing of tenant. She strives to minimize costs and home, tenant pre- screening, credit expenses for the and income veri- owner, and has an fication. Michelle excellent record of speaks Mandarin. tenant retention. Other services MICHELLE include mainte- MEISHAY The average nance manage- occupancy of ten- ment, rent-ready Realtor ants she places is three years, with preparation and remodeling. a turnover rate of If you are looking for a property less than 5%. manager who provides value and ser- vice, while maximizing rent and mini- Two types of mizing vacancies, call Michelle today property manage- at (760) 964-7500, or email: michelle@ ment services are cbhomesource.com available: Simple Management and Full Service.JANUARY 2018 • Local Kids Magazine • Facebook@ Local Kids Magazine • (760) 559-9402 • 13

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Apple Valley Receives Safe Routes to School GrantTown of Apple Valley has this year, and webeen granted $3.4 million for will solicit forsafe routes to school - Children a design con-at Mariana Academy, Sandia Acad- sultant in earlyemy and Apple Valley High School 2018,” said Proj-will soon find it easier to walk or bike ect Administra-to school thanks to a $3.4 million tor Rich Berger.grant from the California Department “About 65% ofof Transportation. the school chil-The funding comes from the dren in AppleSenate Bill 1 Gas Tax fund and will Valley live with-be used to add curb, gutter, and side- in one mile ofwalk to portions of Manhasset and their school, butSandia roads. In addition, the Class most students are1 bike path along Navajo road will driven in privatebe reconstructed from Apple Valley cars. We wantHigh School to Tussing Ranch Road, to increase theand along Tussing Ranch Road from number of chil-Navajo Road to Mendel Park. dren walking andThese improvements were identi- biking to school. This project will that used geographic informationfied as priorities in the Town’s Safe help make that happen.” systems to identify concerns.Routes to Schools Master Plan that Completion of the Safe Routes In addition to Mariana and San-was presented to the Apple Valley dia schools, the master plan recom- to Schools Master Plan was fundedTown Council at the October 24 meet- mended enhancements at eight ad- through a Sustainable Communitiesing.  Per the guidelines of the grant, ditional schools in the Apple Valley Planning Grant, with matching fundsconstruction must be completed in Unified School District. The study, from Measure I and Apple Valleyfiscal year 2018-19. conducted by KOA Corporation, Unified School District.“We should obtain environ- included on-site walking tours, par- For more information about safemental clearance by the end of ent surveys, and an interactive tool routes call (760) 240-7000, x 7530.JANUARY 2018 • Local Kids Magazine • Facebook@ Local Kids Magazine • (760) 559-9402 • 15

“Peace on Earth” Theme Celebrated in Holiday ParadesVictorville’s holiday pa- of the past parades, thisrade promoted a “Peace on year’s weather cooperatedEarth” theme this year, and by being fairly warmmany entries carried thistheme through to Adelanto’s Students from A Danc-parade held a few days later. er’s Pointe dance studioOn December 2, the 55th and some of the youngAnnual Victorville Christmas cheerleader groups offeredparade featured 92 entries, cute performances thatwith floats, marching bands, were really enjoyable.horses, and vehicles partici-pating. The Victorville Ki- This year ’s theme was The parade headed down 7th Street to Mojave. wanis Club is the main“Peace on Earth,” and many PHOTOS BY organizer of the paradeof the community groups, busi- grand marshall for the parade. TRINA SIVERTS each year, and while it can be a challenge, it’s always & BRUCE worth it. LA CHANCEnesses, schools, clubs and other The event is a great way to kickorganizations reflected that message off the holiday season every year,to the crowds of onlookers lining 7th with residents from all over the Vic-Street. tor Valley coming out to support andSan Bernardino County Sheriff enjoy the show. And, when comparedJohn McMahon acted as this year’s to freezing temperatures during someYoung students of A Dancers Pointe. Spectators enjoyed the parade. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive in Adelanto.16 • JANUARY 2018 • Local Kids Magazine • Facebook@ Local Kids Magazine • (760) 559-9402

Tree Lightings Brighten Up the High Desert for the Holidays The Town of Apple Valley held it’s annual tree light-ing event on December 5. Carolers, student performances,and messages to residents from city council members werehighlights of the event. Santa and Mrs. Claus showed up in acarriage to the delight of children and grown-ups alike. It wasa wonderful evening, and a great way to kick off the holidayseason in Apple Valley. Visit www.AppleValleyEvents.org On the evening of Saturday, December 2, the Victorvillecommunity came out to watch the annual Christmas tree light-ing ceremony. Held each year near City Hall, Victorville MayorGloria Garcia spoke to the crowd of onlookers and flipped theswitch to turn on the lights. Afterwards, attendees were treatedto hot cocoa, cookies and other treats. The annual event isalways a joyous celebration of community participation. Alighted sleigh gave free rides all night. Hesperia Rec & Parks District held a tree lighting cer-emony on Thursday, December 7 at Hesperia’s Civic Plaza The Correa family visits with Santa anPHdOTMOSrBsY.GCARlYaGuEsO.RGEA glimps of wonder at theVictorville tree lighting. Park, with a huge holiday tree lit up for local residents. Stu- dents from elementary and high schools put on performances, sang Christmas carols, and provided other entertainment for attendees, and vendors offered snacks. Firefighters collected toys for the “Spark of Love” program by filling the fire truck. Santa Claus made a grand entry on a fire engine, with lights and sirens blaring. For more Hesperia events, visit www. HesperiaParks.com The annual tree-lighting ceremony in Adelanto was held on November 30. A chilly evening had about 100 attendees bundled up to watch the lighting of a tall pole wrapped in a cone of lights. Mayor Richard Kerr opened the ceremony by announcing that hot chocolate and cookies awaited those who attended. Several schools featured performances by students. Santa and his wife waited inside council chambers to visit with children.BUSINESS CARD ADVERTISING DIRECTORY House Cleaning & Yard Work Reasonable Rates • References Call Lorie 760 261-1530JANUARY 2018 • Local Kids Magazine • Facebook@ Local Kids Magazine • (760) 559-9402 • 17

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