LincMoms - Winter 2011

By Diane Wetzel

THE NORTH PLATTE TELEGRAPH

Amy Taft, North Platte, has been an active member of Lincoln CountyMommies for three years. She is on the groups events committee and coordinates babysitting for "mommy only" events organized by the group.She is also a member of a national Mommies network retention team thathelps other chapters who may be struggling. For the mother of Brianna, 11, a 5th grader at Buffalo Elementary andwife of Derek, being part of Lincoln County Mommies is important to thestay-at-home mom who does child care in her home."A friend of mine convinced me to sign up," Amy said. "I've met a lot ofgood friends through the group. We all have the same goal, to love ourkids as best we can and help them along the way."Taft has been named the LincMom of the quarter."Lincoln County Mommies is a great outlet," she said. "It's made a tremendous difference in my life."The LCM website was launched in 2007 by Lori Hansen as a way to connect local moms. It is part of the national Mommies Network. "We come from all walks of life," Taft said. "There is something for everybody there, and moms can get as involved as much or as little asthey like." Sitting in her living room with her daughter and husband, Taft said onemessage she would like to get out is for young mothers. "Teenage pregnancy is such an issue," she said. "We could offer so much supportand guidance. We are not a bunch of old ladies sitting around crocheting.It is such a vibrant group and the support is phenomenal." Taft and her husband met on-line and married 10 years ago. "I was a sin-gle young mom for about a year and a half," she said. "I know what it'slike." As moms, it's easy to get trapped in ruts, she said. "I can get melancholy, stuck in the house, especially around the holidays,"

she said. "It's all about everyone else. My involvement in LCM is aboutme - it's my outlet. I can go online every night and get the charge I needto start fresh the next day."Along with online discussion forums, the group also has face-to-faceevents. Some activities are for mommies only, others are child and dadfriendly. "I just joined the book club," Taft said. "We chat online about thebook during the month, then all get together for coffee and goodies to talkabout it and find out the next one on the reading list."Membership in Lincoln County Mommies is free. To find out more or toregister, go to www.lincolncountymommies.com.

Above & Cover Picture: Mom of the quarter Amy Taft, left, poses with her daughterBrianna, 11.

232

Date Time Event Location Contact

Every Tuesday 9:30AM - 10AM Preschool Story Time North Platte Public Library 308-535-8036

Every Tuesday 9:30AM - 10:30 AM Story Time for Children - Ages 3 to Kindergarden North Platte Public Library 308-535-8036

& 1:30PM

Every Thursday 4PM Teen Cafè: Grades 6-12 & Ages 12-18 Invited North Platte Public Library

Every Friday 8PM - 11PM Cosmic Bowling - $2.80 per game Cedar Bowl 308-532-2800

1st & 3rd Friday 8:45AM - 11AM MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Bethel Church

Thru Dec. 30th 5PM - 9PM Cody Park Winter Wonderland Cody Park

December 31 7:30 PM - 11:45 PM Rattling the Rivers Extreme Bull Riding D&N Event CenterPrice at the gate are $12 for adult and $7 for kids

Starts January 4 11AM - 4PM Association of Nebraska Art Clubs The Art & Gift Gallery 308-534-1946

January 5 & 19 9:30AM - 10AM Wee Read for Toddlers Kids North Platte Public Library 308-535-8036

January 15 N/A 10th Annual MV Curtis Elementary Basketball Tourney Medicine Valley High School Gym 308-367-4210Boys Division (3rd & 4th, 5th & 6th) Curtis, NE or 308-367-6451

January 15 N/A 10th Annual MV Curtis Elementary Basketball Tourney Curtis Community Center Gym 308-367-4210Girls Division (3rd & 4th, 5th & 6th) Curtis, NE or 308-367-6451

Starts February 5 11AM - 4PM The "Women's Show" - A tribute to The Art & Gift Gallery 308-534-1946women during national Women's History Month

TO SUBMIT AN EVENT FOR THIS CALENDAREmail events to: [email protected]

Please include event name, date, time, place & contact information.

No phone calls please.

The Telegraph reserves the right to edit and/or omit all or portions of events.

322 ABOUT THE PUBLICATION

Continuing the celebration of Moms everywhere, The North Platte Telegraph, withthe Lincoln County Mommies, has started this publication for Moms in LincolnCounty - LincMOMS - where mothers of all ages throughout Lincoln County canreceive ideas about daycare, education, advice about child rearing (of all ages, ofcourse!), and find and organize safe and fun activities for the kids and the family.A website LincMOMS.com will be coming soon. This will be a social networking site for Lincoln County area stay at home moms, working moms andwork at home moms. Moms can connect and be entertained through forums andblogs. Please keep reading the North Platte Telegraph for further information.The information included in this publication is to further assist mother’s who havean already oh so busy lifestyle. When you're a working mother, you need all the helpyou can get in order to achieve any semblance of work-life balance.Continuing the celebration of Moms everywhere, The North Platte Telegraph, withthe Lincoln County ? has started this publication for Moms in Lincoln County -LincMOMS - where mothers of all ages throughout Lincoln County can receiveideas about daycare, education, advice about child rearing (of all ages, of course!),and find and organize safe and fun activities for the kids and the family.A website LincMOMS.com will be coming soon. This will be a social networkingsite for Lincoln County area stay at home moms, working moms and work at homemoms. Moms can connect and be entertained through forums and blogs. Please keepreading the North Platte Telegraph for further information.The information included in this publication is to further assist mother’s who have

an already oh so busy lifestyle. When you're a working mother, you need all the helpyou can get in order to achieve any semblance of work-life balance.The information included in this publication is to further assist mother’s who havean already oh so busy lifestyle. When you're a working mother, you need all the helpyou can get in order to achieve any semblance of work-life balance.

What is LincMOMS?

We asked some 2nd grade students at Buffalo SchoolWhat do you like most about your mommy? What do you like least?

1. She is always there for me! She says she would probablydo anything for me.

2. Sometimes she's grumpy when she doesn't get enoughsleep.

Shyanne Lambert, 8

1. I don't know. She let's me go outside a lot.

2. When she grounds me.

Jace Hupfer, 8

1. She makes really good cookes. My favorites are oatmealcookies.

2. Whenever she yells at me when I don't clean my room.

Brentney Hansen, 8½

1. She cares about me. I know she cares because she alwayssays she loves me and gives me kisses goodnight.

2. Sometimes I get in trouble. I pick on my brother and sheputs me in time out.

Jay Cooper, 8

1. What I like best is that she reads books to us every night.

2. She smokes and I'm allergic to it, but she's trying to quit,though.

Izaiah Pitre, 7

1. When it's the weekend my friends get to come over andspend the night and stay a long time and she makes choco-late chip cookies.

2. She yells at me 'cause I can't get dressed fast enough andI don't like my shoes loose and have to re-tie them.

Tahjzha Botts, 8

214

Question: Does my child need sealants?

Answer: Sealants are applied to help protect the grooves of teeth that can be hard to clean. It provides a barrierto plaque, and should be applied to the 1st and 2nd permanent molars and appropriate premolars as soon as

possible after they erupt.

Question: What can I do if I'm pregnant?

Answer: It's important for you to take good care of your teeth and gums while you are pregnant.Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that increase your risk of developing gum disease which inturn, can affect the health of your developing baby. Try to make a dental appointment before getting pregnant. That way, your teeth can be professionally cleaned, your gum tissue can be carefully examined, and any oral healthproblems can be treated in advance ofyour pregnancy. During pregnancy keepall regular dental checkups to ensurehealthy teeth and gums.

Lannae Phelps, D.D.S.

LOCAL NEWS 5

Little People Daycare1609 East 2nd Street, North Platte

308-534-3758308-520-5418

Owner: Peggy Moe

Ribbons & Race Cars

In home day careM-F 18m & up7am - 5:30pm

State Licensed & References

Call 308-660-6245

Daycare openings for select ages.

Low rates, basic preschool,

school transportation.

602 South Taft • 308-532-0522

6:45 am - 6 pmMon - Fri

Trish Jorgensen DaycareState Lisenced - 24-7 - Nights Available

6 Weeks thru 13 Years of ageTransportation provided for preschool, dance etc...

Years of experience & reasonable rates

Call (308) 530-8329

Taking registrations for fall

3-6 years of age

Call Miss Madonna 308-534-3367


3-6 years of age


NORTH PLATTE COMMUNITYDAY CARE CENTER, INC.

534-9222 or 532-92221210 South Ash • North Platte

State Licensed - 6 weeks to 12 yearsNAEYC Accredidation

HOURS: MONDAY - FRIDAY5:30 am - 11:30 pm

SATURDAY (reservation only)5:30 am - 6:00 pm

Little Monkey’s

Child Care

Children 6 weeks to 13 yearsOpen 24 hrs a day - 7 days a week

HHS approved, State licensedParental web camera system coming soon!

3302 South Willow • 308-532-4688

CHILDCARE & PRESCHOOL20

We support all Lincoln County Moms.100% Customer Satisfaction

321 South Jeffers • 308-532-1805

By Heather JohnsonThe North Platte Telegraph

Tuesday, December 21st was aday of giving for the sixth gradestudents from Hershey ElementarySchool. They gave their time andmoney to make Christmas a littlebrighter at The Connection andthe North Platte Animal Shelter.“The class does a gift exchangeevery year,” said teacher CherilynKuhl. “But this year, instead ofspending money on each other, the

students decided to use it forsomeone else.”On Tuesday morning, the studentsthrew a party at the homeless shelter. They provided meat andcheese platters, vegetable traysand chips, and in return, the shelter residents served root beerfloats and helped them decoratesugar cookies. The students alsohanded out gifts and sangChristmas carols.“It’s kind of hard to find something meaningful for the $3

to $5 allotted for presents,” saidteacher Kelli Holton. “So, theybought each resident socks andtoiletry items. We’re trying to tiein with the Character Counts program and teach the childrenabout civic responsibility.”The sixth grade class has donatedsocks to The Connection before,but it was the first time studentswere able to visit the shelter,which is celebrating its firstChristmas in a new building. On the way back to Hershey, theclass also stopped at the animalshelter and presented it with acheck for $600. Holton said themoney was raised from a recentchallenge.“The elementary classes wenthead to head to collect changeover a two-week period,” saidHolton. “They set up jars andfilled them with change fromhome. This year, the third gradeclass collected the most and wonthe competition, but all the moneywas pooled together and given tothe animal shelter. It’s not for anything in particular, employeescan put toward whatever is neededmost.”It’s the second year the animalshave benefited from the classfundraiser. Holton said $1,200 has

been given altogether.Student Tacie Lucas said shethought the sixth graders set anexample for the younger classes.“It’s taught me that Christmasreally isn’t about getting a lot ofgifts,” said student BritniBrannan. “It’s about not beingselfish and giving to other people.”The fundraiser continues throughDecember 31st.

Hershey Students Give To Local Shelters

Hershey Elementary sixth grade students Tanner Howell, Matt Rixstein and Kendal Naranjomake root beer floats Tuesday at The Connection. The class donated gifts and food to thehomeless shelter and presented a check for $600 to the animal shelter.

Hershey Elementary sixth grade studentSarah Pishna decorates a sugar cookieTuesday at The Connection. The class donated gifts and food to the homeless shelter and presented a check for $600 to theanimal shelter.

By Tresa EricksonADBUILDER.COM

Every year as the holiday season approaches, roads everywhere begin filling up with college students returning home, snowbirds heading south,vacationers making their great escape and more. It doesn't matter that thetemperatures have dropped, the skies have turned gray and snow and icehave started to fall. The roads are busy, and if you are among winter travelers this year, take caution and follow these safety tips. Plan ahead. Determine where you are going, when you are leaving andreturning, and how you are getting there and let someone else at homeknow. Map out the best route to your destination and stay abreast of theweather and the road conditions. If it looks like you are going to be traveling in a lot of snow and ice and you don't have a lot of experiencedriving in bad weather, take a course in winter driving or bring along amore experienced driver. Have your vehicle serviced. There is nothing worse than trying to traverseicy roads in a poorly functioning vehicle. Don't let it happen to you. Haveyour vehicle inspected before you leave and make sure it is in good condition. Depending upon where you are going, you may need snow tires.Check with your mechanic. Carry an emergency roadside kit. You never know what the roads will belike and if you will have to stop. Be prepared with an emergency roadside

kit. You can purchase one or create your own. Just make sure you pack allof the essentials, including a cell phone and extra food, water and blanketsin case help does not arrive right away. Stay alert. Whether in good weather or bad, you need to be alert, so getplenty of rest before your trip and make healthy choices during it. Just alittle dehydration can lead to fatigue, which can lead to big trouble behindthe wheel. Drink lots of water and eat plenty of nutritious snacks to keepup your energy. Take it easy. Stay calm and slow down when you hit patches of ice andsnow. Yes, you may arrive a little later than planned, but better that thannot arriving at all. Never grip the wheel. It could cause you to lose controlof the vehicle. If the conditions get too bad, stop and stay the night somewhere. Even with the best of precautions, you may still find yourself stranded.Should that occur, do not panic. Call for help, and to help rescue workersfind you, tie a brightly colored cloth to your antenna. Then get back intoyour vehicle crack open a window for air, snuggle up under some blanketsand sit back and wait. Run the heater for 10 minutes every hour or so tokeep the vehicle warm and move your arms and legs as much as possibleto maintain circulation and body heat. With any luck, you won't have towait long for help to arrive. Traveling on winter roads can be risky. Be prepared, drive smart and get to your destination safely.

YOUR CHILD’S SAFETY

Safe Winter Travels During the Holiday SeasonTRAVEL TIPS

By Ralph LeeADBUILDER.COM

You've got the family in the car and you're headed for your vacation destination which is eight long hours away. Within 15 minutes, here itcomes from the back seat-the question you've been dreading: "Are wethere yet?" Which begs another question: How do you keep the kidsoccupied on a long car ride so your vacation isn't ruined before it starts?Here's what you CAN'T do: You can't stuff the kids in the trunk. That'swhere your luggage is. You can't tie them to the roof of the car. They'llcreate drag and cut down on your gas mileage. Besides, if one falls off,you'll have to stop, pick them up and reattach them, making it difficult tomake good time. You can't leave them at home-unless you want your nextvacation to be in five to 10. But here are some things you CAN do tomake the miles fly by-well, go by a little faster anyway (if you wantedthem to fly by, you'd take a plane). Like your portfolio, diversify...It's a fact of life. Kids bore easily-almostas easily as adults. To combat this, have a variety of activities packed inthe car-not in the trunk buried under six suitcases. Depending on the agerange, stuffed toys, action figures, crayons (don't forget paper), puzzles,video games, music players and books fit the bill. An almost must-have

to take on a trip is a portable DVD player. The only thing better than atwo-hour movie to occupy the kids on a long ride is TWO two-hourmovies. This isn't an airplane...You don't want to assign seats, so let the kids sitwhere they want within reason. But if you've got three kids and two ofthem don't usually get along, a long car trip will only exacerbate the situation. Keep them separated from the get-go or give them both someboxing gloves. If you're only taking one kid and he doesn't get along withhimself, you shouldn't be on vacation. You should save your money fortherapy, either for you or the kid-probably both. Hungry = cranky...It doesn't take an Einstein to realize a hungry kid is an unhappy kid. Make sure you pack snacks so you're not stopping for food except at regular mealtimes. Remember: A full mouth is a quiet mouth. Alas, for bathroom breaks, you're at the mercy of your kids' bladders. Hint: Your long vacation drive is NOT the time to see if little Johnny can set a bladder control record. Speaking of breaks... Face it. You're probably going to have to stop once in a while to take a break or risk mutiny on the car ride. Children are restless by nature and they have to be able to get out of the vehicle, stretch their legs and run off some energy. You can do the same-only you'll be walking off any energy you may still have.

The Constant Traveling Question: Are We There Yet?196

CRAFT PROJECTS 718

Instructions: 1. Take a trip to the local fabric store and choose a fleece material for your scarf. Purchase a ¼ of a yard per scarf. The lengthof the scarf will be the width of the fabric, approximately 60 inches.

2. Lay material on a flat surface and trim with scissors to make it even on all sides, if necessary.

3. Put the material around your neck to determine how long you want the scarf to be depending on the height of the personyou are making it for and desired length. For example, if you want the scarf to end at the waist, knees, etc.

4. Cut the scarf to the desired length with scissors.

5. Lay the scarf flat again to begin making the tassels on the ends.

6. Measure and mark 4 inch slits, ½ inch wide on one end of the scarf with a ruler and pencil. Then repeat on the opposite end.

7. Cut the slits on the pencil marks on both ends to complete the scarf.

8. There should be a total of 18 tassels on each end on the scarf.

You're finished! Now that you know how simple and fun it can be, you can make more scarves for friends and family! Idea courtesy of Melissa Dianda at Education.com

Make a winter scarf with inexpensive materials, no sewing required! It's a fun and simple activity that will keepthem warm during the winter season! They can also have make these simple scarves as gifts for relatives, friends,or teachers.

Materials Needed: • Fleece material (¼ of a yard, per scarf) • Scissors

• Ruler • Pencil

Prep Time: 15 minTotal Time: 24 hrs 15 minServings: 10 servings, ½ cup each

Photo & recipe courtesy of kraftfoods.com

Ingredients: 1 pkg. (3.9 oz.) JELL-O Chocolate Instant Pudding2 cups cold milk30 OREO Cookies, divided1½ cups thawed COOL WHIP Whipped Topping Decorations: 1 baby carrot and licorice pieces

Directions: BEAT pudding mix and milk with whisk 2 min. Let stand 5 min. or untilthickened. LINE 8-inch round pan with plastic wrap. Arrange 14 cookieson bottom of pan, cutting to fit if necessary; cover with 1 cup pudding.Repeat layers. Cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate 24 hours. UNCOVERdessert. Invert onto serving plate; remove plastic wrap. Frost dessert withCOOL WHIP. Add remaining cookies for the eyes, carrot for the nose andlicorice pieces for the mouth.

Where Family Comes First!• Leland F. Lamberty, M.D. • Janet E. Bernard, M.D. • Wendy J.Gosnell, M.D. • Joseph J Kezeor M.D.

500 W. Leota Ste. 100 • North Platte, NE 69101

308-534-4440

Family Medicine Associates

EASY TO MAKE RECIPES

PUZZLES & COLORING

BE A-MAZED!

CCCCOOOOLLLLOOOORRRR MMMMEEEE !!!!8 17LOCAL NEWS


Proceeds from this year’s Nachos Navidad will go toward the creation oftwo new displays at the North Platte Area Children’s Museum. Museum director Marla Thompson said a pirate ship is being built upstairs,where a reading castle used to be. Downstairs, the former space center isbeing transformed into a life-sized Lite-Brite. “We just found that kids weren’t using the reading castle that much,” saidThompson. “So, the high school construction students are helping us createa pirate ship that we’ll stock with telescopes, bandanas and other things tomake it seem real.” She said both exhibits are expected to open around thefirst of the year.For the past decade, Taco John’s has collected money through its NachosNavidad campaign to give to non-profit organizations. The restaurant’s customers are asked to contribute a $1 to the museum when they purchasetheir meals. Anyone who donates has his or her name written on a paperwreath. On Christmas Eve, each of the three store locations in town willdraw a name and the winner will receive a bike.“The money always stays local, but the charities vary,” said North PlatteTaco John’s manager Vern Orr. “We have a very giving community. TheRape and Domestic Abuse Program received about $1,100 last year. In thepast, we’ve also helped the Bridge of Hope Child Advocacy Center.”According to the Taco John’s website, the effort originally began with NorthDakota franchisee Mike Sartwell, who used it raise money for the CysticFibrosis Association of North Dakota. Sartwell’s daughter has cystic fibrosis. The Nachos Navidad promotion went system-wide in 1999.

“We always try to do as much as possible for kids,” said Orr. “This year wechose to help the museum because children are our future, and the museumis a fantastic educational resource for them.” The fundraiser continuesthrough December 31st.

CHILLYFIREPLACE

FROSTHYBERNATE

HOT CHOCOLATEMIGRATEPENGUIN

POLAR BEAR

SNOWFLAKESNOWMAN

WHITEWINTER

North Platte Area Children’s Museum. Telegraph File Photo

Nachos Navidad will help fund new museum exhibits


Black Forest Mousse2 c. milk1 3.9-oz. pkg. instant chocolate pudding mix1 21-oz. can cherry pie filling2 c. whipped topping

Beat milk and pudding mix for 2 minutes, or until smooth. Let stand until slightlythickened, about 2 minutes. Stir in pie filling. Gently fold in whipped topping.Spoon into individual dessert dishes and refrigerate until serving.

Chocolate Mousse9 oz. bittersweet chocolate, chopped3/4 c. miniature marshmallows4 eggs, separated½ pt. heavy cream1 dash peppermint extract

Melt chocolate in the microwave, stirring constantly. Stir marshmallows intohot chocolate until melted. Set aside. Whip egg whites until stiff peaks form.Whip cream until soft peaks form. Stir egg yolks into slightly cooled chocolatemixture. Fold in egg whites and whipped cream. Add peppermint extract. Chill2 to 3 hours before serving.

Raspberry White Chocolate Mousse1 10-oz. pkg. frozen raspberries, thawed2 T. sugar2 T. orange liqueur1 - ¾ c. heavy whipping cream6 oz. white chocolate, chopped1 drop red food coloring

Blend berries until smooth. Strain and discard seeds. Add sugar and liqueur, andstir until sugar is dissolved. Set sauce aside. Warm ¼ c. of cream and whitechocolate over low heat, stirring constantly until chocolate is melted. Let mixture cool until lukewarm. Stir in 1 T. raspberry sauce and food coloring.Transfer to a large bowl. Whip remaining cream to soft peaks. Fold into meltedchocolate mixture, a third at a time, until no streaks remain. Layer into parfaitdishes and serve with sauce.

Strawberry Mousse1 qt. fresh strawberries2 T. sugar1 pt. heavy cream6 egg whites

Chop hulled strawberries in a food processor, leaving a few chunks. Add sugar.Whip cream until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, whip egg whites until stiffpeaks form. Fold whipped cream into strawberries. Fold whipped egg whitesinto strawberry mixture. Serve immediately.

Mousse, Anyone?PARTIES, RECIPES & OTHER IDEAS

Question: Our family car has seen better days and we've toyed around withtrading it in. Is this a good time to buy a car?

Answer: Some say the best time to buy a new (or used) vehicle is when you need one.There's some truth to that but with rates at record lows, this really is a great time to buy. Infact, if you're looking at a new vehicle, there are many rebate offers that can be paired witha great low rate from your bank for maximum savings. For instance, our current loan rateat First National Bank is only 3.75% APR* for new or used vehicles. This rate is fixed forthe life of your loan with model years 2006or newer. Stop by and visit with us today tocompare rates or see how we can help youget started.

Erna Todd, Personal Banker

16 9

MAKING A DIFFERENCE


The North Platte Animal Shelter has received some help in its quest tobuild a quarantine area. A Madison Middle School student recentlyorganized a fund drive that raised $200 for the ''Raising the Woof'' campaign.Plans are to turn the shelter's garage into a quarantined section, so thatsick animals won't infect healthy ones. The North Platte PoliceDepartment has offered to contribute half of the $30,000 needed, and therest of the money is being collected through donations and fundraisers.Fourteen-year-old Cindy Bowers said her involvement was the result ofa language arts project. The eighth grade class had been asked to createan informational pamphlet about any topic they wanted, and Bowerschose the animal shelter.''While I was researching it, I noticed that it was trying to raise money forthe quarantine area,'' said Bowers. ''I wanted to do something to help.''Madison faculty, staff and students put $69 worth of change in a donation jar she set up in the school's library. Bowers also went beforethe student council and suggested a ''Hats for Hounds'' day, during whicheveryone who gave $1 to the shelter was allowed to wear a hat to school.The effort raised $131.

''Almost everyone has a cat or dog,'' said Bowers. ''I think it's importantto help the shelter help the lost and abandoned animals in our community.''

Madison student raises money for sick animals10 15

Question: My workouts are boring. I’m not seeing any results. I’m losing my motivationto exercise. What can I do?

Answer: These are some of the many sentiments of ones who want to exercise or who know they need to workout, but are having a hard time staying the course.Every single person alive is motivated, that's why they do or don't do whatever they practice. Even a person doing nothing is motivated to do so. So, you need positive stimuli. This comes by way of an activefriend, a fitness trainer or group fitness instructor. There, you will experience encouragement, fun, camaraderie, muscle differentiation and commitment! The investment in time or money is well worth it.'Results are in direct proportion with the effort'. So, the results you seek are in proportion with the effortyou are willing to make. Remember, if it hurts, if its hard, if you don't like it - its necessary! ITS VERYSIMPLE!

Tommy Vieyra, OwnerBUDDY

4-5 year old Male Yellow Lab Cross,Neutered, Wonderful, & Loving!

KING1-2 year old Male Black Lab Cross

11

Adalena Hampton Aden Acton Afia Hunt Alexa & Bianca Griffin Alexandra Thompson

Alexis Ponte Amelia Bruck Andromeda Spurgin Anthony Thompson Ava Isabell

Ayden Weatherly Braislee Wilson Brecken Korkow Brody Green Cade Freeze

Camin Golter Carson Altig Cash Johanson Cayden Hampton Colten Altig

Hayden Hansen Lydia Pearce Alayna Feeney Keeghan Clouse Brooklyn Renae Rankin

Left to Right:

Grace EvertRiggin JliesHarley GranzenClara EvertChloe GranzenEllie Meduna

Thank YouFirst National Bank of North Platte & the North Platte Telegraph would like to

thank everyone who submitted their pictures for the First National Bank Berry Christmas Cute Kid Contest.

All front-page cute kids were selected in the order that the photographs were received. Photos will be available to pick up at

First National Bank after January 3rd. T-shirts for the front-page children will be available to pick up after February 1st.

14

1312

Deondray Pierce Eidos Klein Emma Acton Emmett Wirth Jack Brosius

Jack Meyer Jalissa Carland Janee Wagner Jayna Schultz & Kirsten Joel Cullan

Jordan Redden Joseph Dilley Josiah Carland Josie Griebel Kaylee Stewart

Kendra Ann Golden Kendyl Valentine Kepler Spurgin Kyle Legas Kyson Carland

Levi Charter Maddux Jurgens Mason Stine Muhtese Taylor Paige Rogers

Paige Seery Rauri Ryan Reegan DeVries Riggin Hansen Rylan Brakenhoff

Rylee Murrish Sienna Cordell Sophia Quenzada Sydnee Isom Trey Furmanski

Tyler Stewart Will Cox William Martinez Zachary Marshall Lexus Erickson

1312

Deondray Pierce Eidos Klein Emma Acton Emmett Wirth Jack Brosius

Jack Meyer Jalissa Carland Janee Wagner Jayna Schultz & Kirsten Joel Cullan

Jordan Redden Joseph Dilley Josiah Carland Josie Griebel Kaylee Stewart

Kendra Ann Golden Kendyl Valentine Kepler Spurgin Kyle Legas Kyson Carland

Levi Charter Maddux Jurgens Mason Stine Muhtese Taylor Paige Rogers

Paige Seery Rauri Ryan Reegan DeVries Riggin Hansen Rylan Brakenhoff

Rylee Murrish Sienna Cordell Sophia Quenzada Sydnee Isom Trey Furmanski

Tyler Stewart Will Cox William Martinez Zachary Marshall Lexus Erickson

11

Adalena Hampton Aden Acton Afia Hunt Alexa & Bianca Griffin Alexandra Thompson

Alexis Ponte Amelia Bruck Andromeda Spurgin Anthony Thompson Ava Isabell

Ayden Weatherly Braislee Wilson Brecken Korkow Brody Green Cade Freeze

Camin Golter Carson Altig Cash Johanson Cayden Hampton Colten Altig

Hayden Hansen Lydia Pearce Alayna Feeney Keeghan Clouse Brooklyn Renae Rankin

Left to Right:

Grace EvertRiggin JliesHarley GranzenClara EvertChloe GranzenEllie Meduna

Thank YouFirst National Bank of North Platte & the North Platte Telegraph would like to

thank everyone who submitted their pictures for the First National Bank Berry Christmas Cute Kid Contest.

All front-page cute kids were selected in the order that the photographs were received. Photos will be available to pick up at

First National Bank after January 3rd. T-shirts for the front-page children will be available to pick up after February 1st.

14

MAKING A DIFFERENCE


The North Platte Animal Shelter has received some help in its quest tobuild a quarantine area. A Madison Middle School student recentlyorganized a fund drive that raised $200 for the ''Raising the Woof'' campaign.Plans are to turn the shelter's garage into a quarantined section, so thatsick animals won't infect healthy ones. The North Platte PoliceDepartment has offered to contribute half of the $30,000 needed, and therest of the money is being collected through donations and fundraisers.Fourteen-year-old Cindy Bowers said her involvement was the result ofa language arts project. The eighth grade class had been asked to createan informational pamphlet about any topic they wanted, and Bowerschose the animal shelter.''While I was researching it, I noticed that it was trying to raise money forthe quarantine area,'' said Bowers. ''I wanted to do something to help.''Madison faculty, staff and students put $69 worth of change in a donation jar she set up in the school's library. Bowers also went beforethe student council and suggested a ''Hats for Hounds'' day, during whicheveryone who gave $1 to the shelter was allowed to wear a hat to school.The effort raised $131.

''Almost everyone has a cat or dog,'' said Bowers. ''I think it's importantto help the shelter help the lost and abandoned animals in our community.''

Madison student raises money for sick animals10 15

Question: My workouts are boring. I’m not seeing any results. I’m losing my motivationto exercise. What can I do?

Answer: These are some of the many sentiments of ones who want to exercise or who know they need to workout, but are having a hard time staying the course.Every single person alive is motivated, that's why they do or don't do whatever they practice. Even a person doing nothing is motivated to do so. So, you need positive stimuli. This comes by way of an activefriend, a fitness trainer or group fitness instructor. There, you will experience encouragement, fun, camaraderie, muscle differentiation and commitment! The investment in time or money is well worth it.'Results are in direct proportion with the effort'. So, the results you seek are in proportion with the effortyou are willing to make. Remember, if it hurts, if its hard, if you don't like it - its necessary! ITS VERYSIMPLE!

Tommy Vieyra, OwnerBUDDY

4-5 year old Male Yellow Lab Cross,Neutered, Wonderful, & Loving!

KING1-2 year old Male Black Lab Cross


Black Forest Mousse2 c. milk1 3.9-oz. pkg. instant chocolate pudding mix1 21-oz. can cherry pie filling2 c. whipped topping

Beat milk and pudding mix for 2 minutes, or until smooth. Let stand until slightlythickened, about 2 minutes. Stir in pie filling. Gently fold in whipped topping.Spoon into individual dessert dishes and refrigerate until serving.

Chocolate Mousse9 oz. bittersweet chocolate, chopped3/4 c. miniature marshmallows4 eggs, separated½ pt. heavy cream1 dash peppermint extract

Melt chocolate in the microwave, stirring constantly. Stir marshmallows intohot chocolate until melted. Set aside. Whip egg whites until stiff peaks form.Whip cream until soft peaks form. Stir egg yolks into slightly cooled chocolatemixture. Fold in egg whites and whipped cream. Add peppermint extract. Chill2 to 3 hours before serving.

Raspberry White Chocolate Mousse1 10-oz. pkg. frozen raspberries, thawed2 T. sugar2 T. orange liqueur1 - ¾ c. heavy whipping cream6 oz. white chocolate, chopped1 drop red food coloring

Blend berries until smooth. Strain and discard seeds. Add sugar and liqueur, andstir until sugar is dissolved. Set sauce aside. Warm ¼ c. of cream and whitechocolate over low heat, stirring constantly until chocolate is melted. Let mixture cool until lukewarm. Stir in 1 T. raspberry sauce and food coloring.Transfer to a large bowl. Whip remaining cream to soft peaks. Fold into meltedchocolate mixture, a third at a time, until no streaks remain. Layer into parfaitdishes and serve with sauce.

Strawberry Mousse1 qt. fresh strawberries2 T. sugar1 pt. heavy cream6 egg whites

Chop hulled strawberries in a food processor, leaving a few chunks. Add sugar.Whip cream until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, whip egg whites until stiffpeaks form. Fold whipped cream into strawberries. Fold whipped egg whitesinto strawberry mixture. Serve immediately.

Mousse, Anyone?PARTIES, RECIPES & OTHER IDEAS

Question: Our family car has seen better days and we've toyed around withtrading it in. Is this a good time to buy a car?

Answer: Some say the best time to buy a new (or used) vehicle is when you need one.There's some truth to that but with rates at record lows, this really is a great time to buy. Infact, if you're looking at a new vehicle, there are many rebate offers that can be paired witha great low rate from your bank for maximum savings. For instance, our current loan rateat First National Bank is only 3.75% APR* for new or used vehicles. This rate is fixed forthe life of your loan with model years 2006or newer. Stop by and visit with us today tocompare rates or see how we can help youget started.

Erna Todd, Personal Banker

16 9

PUZZLES & COLORING

BE A-MAZED!

CCCCOOOOLLLLOOOORRRR MMMMEEEE !!!!8 17LOCAL NEWS


Proceeds from this year’s Nachos Navidad will go toward the creation oftwo new displays at the North Platte Area Children’s Museum. Museum director Marla Thompson said a pirate ship is being built upstairs,where a reading castle used to be. Downstairs, the former space center isbeing transformed into a life-sized Lite-Brite. “We just found that kids weren’t using the reading castle that much,” saidThompson. “So, the high school construction students are helping us createa pirate ship that we’ll stock with telescopes, bandanas and other things tomake it seem real.” She said both exhibits are expected to open around thefirst of the year.For the past decade, Taco John’s has collected money through its NachosNavidad campaign to give to non-profit organizations. The restaurant’s customers are asked to contribute a $1 to the museum when they purchasetheir meals. Anyone who donates has his or her name written on a paperwreath. On Christmas Eve, each of the three store locations in town willdraw a name and the winner will receive a bike.“The money always stays local, but the charities vary,” said North PlatteTaco John’s manager Vern Orr. “We have a very giving community. TheRape and Domestic Abuse Program received about $1,100 last year. In thepast, we’ve also helped the Bridge of Hope Child Advocacy Center.”According to the Taco John’s website, the effort originally began with NorthDakota franchisee Mike Sartwell, who used it raise money for the CysticFibrosis Association of North Dakota. Sartwell’s daughter has cystic fibrosis. The Nachos Navidad promotion went system-wide in 1999.

“We always try to do as much as possible for kids,” said Orr. “This year wechose to help the museum because children are our future, and the museumis a fantastic educational resource for them.” The fundraiser continuesthrough December 31st.

CHILLYFIREPLACE

FROSTHYBERNATE

HOT CHOCOLATEMIGRATEPENGUIN

POLAR BEAR

SNOWFLAKESNOWMAN

WHITEWINTER

North Platte Area Children’s Museum. Telegraph File Photo

Nachos Navidad will help fund new museum exhibits

CRAFT PROJECTS 718

Instructions: 1. Take a trip to the local fabric store and choose a fleece material for your scarf. Purchase a ¼ of a yard per scarf. The lengthof the scarf will be the width of the fabric, approximately 60 inches.

2. Lay material on a flat surface and trim with scissors to make it even on all sides, if necessary.

3. Put the material around your neck to determine how long you want the scarf to be depending on the height of the personyou are making it for and desired length. For example, if you want the scarf to end at the waist, knees, etc.

4. Cut the scarf to the desired length with scissors.

5. Lay the scarf flat again to begin making the tassels on the ends.

6. Measure and mark 4 inch slits, ½ inch wide on one end of the scarf with a ruler and pencil. Then repeat on the opposite end.

7. Cut the slits on the pencil marks on both ends to complete the scarf.

8. There should be a total of 18 tassels on each end on the scarf.

You're finished! Now that you know how simple and fun it can be, you can make more scarves for friends and family! Idea courtesy of Melissa Dianda at Education.com

Make a winter scarf with inexpensive materials, no sewing required! It's a fun and simple activity that will keepthem warm during the winter season! They can also have make these simple scarves as gifts for relatives, friends,or teachers.

Materials Needed: • Fleece material (¼ of a yard, per scarf) • Scissors

• Ruler • Pencil

Prep Time: 15 minTotal Time: 24 hrs 15 minServings: 10 servings, ½ cup each

Photo & recipe courtesy of kraftfoods.com

Ingredients: 1 pkg. (3.9 oz.) JELL-O Chocolate Instant Pudding2 cups cold milk30 OREO Cookies, divided1½ cups thawed COOL WHIP Whipped Topping Decorations: 1 baby carrot and licorice pieces

Directions: BEAT pudding mix and milk with whisk 2 min. Let stand 5 min. or untilthickened. LINE 8-inch round pan with plastic wrap. Arrange 14 cookieson bottom of pan, cutting to fit if necessary; cover with 1 cup pudding.Repeat layers. Cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate 24 hours. UNCOVERdessert. Invert onto serving plate; remove plastic wrap. Frost dessert withCOOL WHIP. Add remaining cookies for the eyes, carrot for the nose andlicorice pieces for the mouth.

Where Family Comes First!• Leland F. Lamberty, M.D. • Janet E. Bernard, M.D. • Wendy J.Gosnell, M.D. • Joseph J Kezeor M.D.

500 W. Leota Ste. 100 • North Platte, NE 69101

308-534-4440

Family Medicine Associates

EASY TO MAKE RECIPES


Every year as the holiday season approaches, roads everywhere begin filling up with college students returning home, snowbirds heading south,vacationers making their great escape and more. It doesn't matter that thetemperatures have dropped, the skies have turned gray and snow and icehave started to fall. The roads are busy, and if you are among winter travelers this year, take caution and follow these safety tips. Plan ahead. Determine where you are going, when you are leaving andreturning, and how you are getting there and let someone else at homeknow. Map out the best route to your destination and stay abreast of theweather and the road conditions. If it looks like you are going to be traveling in a lot of snow and ice and you don't have a lot of experiencedriving in bad weather, take a course in winter driving or bring along amore experienced driver. Have your vehicle serviced. There is nothing worse than trying to traverseicy roads in a poorly functioning vehicle. Don't let it happen to you. Haveyour vehicle inspected before you leave and make sure it is in good condition. Depending upon where you are going, you may need snow tires.Check with your mechanic. Carry an emergency roadside kit. You never know what the roads will belike and if you will have to stop. Be prepared with an emergency roadside

kit. You can purchase one or create your own. Just make sure you pack allof the essentials, including a cell phone and extra food, water and blanketsin case help does not arrive right away. Stay alert. Whether in good weather or bad, you need to be alert, so getplenty of rest before your trip and make healthy choices during it. Just alittle dehydration can lead to fatigue, which can lead to big trouble behindthe wheel. Drink lots of water and eat plenty of nutritious snacks to keepup your energy. Take it easy. Stay calm and slow down when you hit patches of ice andsnow. Yes, you may arrive a little later than planned, but better that thannot arriving at all. Never grip the wheel. It could cause you to lose controlof the vehicle. If the conditions get too bad, stop and stay the night somewhere. Even with the best of precautions, you may still find yourself stranded.Should that occur, do not panic. Call for help, and to help rescue workersfind you, tie a brightly colored cloth to your antenna. Then get back intoyour vehicle crack open a window for air, snuggle up under some blanketsand sit back and wait. Run the heater for 10 minutes every hour or so tokeep the vehicle warm and move your arms and legs as much as possibleto maintain circulation and body heat. With any luck, you won't have towait long for help to arrive. Traveling on winter roads can be risky. Be prepared, drive smart and get to your destination safely.

YOUR CHILD’S SAFETY

Safe Winter Travels During the Holiday SeasonTRAVEL TIPS

By Ralph LeeADBUILDER.COM

You've got the family in the car and you're headed for your vacation destination which is eight long hours away. Within 15 minutes, here itcomes from the back seat-the question you've been dreading: "Are wethere yet?" Which begs another question: How do you keep the kidsoccupied on a long car ride so your vacation isn't ruined before it starts?Here's what you CAN'T do: You can't stuff the kids in the trunk. That'swhere your luggage is. You can't tie them to the roof of the car. They'llcreate drag and cut down on your gas mileage. Besides, if one falls off,you'll have to stop, pick them up and reattach them, making it difficult tomake good time. You can't leave them at home-unless you want your nextvacation to be in five to 10. But here are some things you CAN do tomake the miles fly by-well, go by a little faster anyway (if you wantedthem to fly by, you'd take a plane). Like your portfolio, diversify...It's a fact of life. Kids bore easily-almostas easily as adults. To combat this, have a variety of activities packed inthe car-not in the trunk buried under six suitcases. Depending on the agerange, stuffed toys, action figures, crayons (don't forget paper), puzzles,video games, music players and books fit the bill. An almost must-have

to take on a trip is a portable DVD player. The only thing better than atwo-hour movie to occupy the kids on a long ride is TWO two-hourmovies. This isn't an airplane...You don't want to assign seats, so let the kids sitwhere they want within reason. But if you've got three kids and two ofthem don't usually get along, a long car trip will only exacerbate the situation. Keep them separated from the get-go or give them both someboxing gloves. If you're only taking one kid and he doesn't get along withhimself, you shouldn't be on vacation. You should save your money fortherapy, either for you or the kid-probably both. Hungry = cranky...It doesn't take an Einstein to realize a hungry kid is an unhappy kid. Make sure you pack snacks so you're not stopping for food except at regular mealtimes. Remember: A full mouth is a quiet mouth. Alas, for bathroom breaks, you're at the mercy of your kids' bladders. Hint: Your long vacation drive is NOT the time to see if little Johnny can set a bladder control record. Speaking of breaks... Face it. You're probably going to have to stop once in a while to take a break or risk mutiny on the car ride. Children are restless by nature and they have to be able to get out of the vehicle, stretch their legs and run off some energy. You can do the same-only you'll be walking off any energy you may still have.

The Constant Traveling Question: Are We There Yet?196

LOCAL NEWS 5

Little People Daycare1609 East 2nd Street, North Platte

308-534-3758308-520-5418

Owner: Peggy Moe

Ribbons & Race Cars

In home day careM-F 18m & up7am - 5:30pm

State Licensed & References

Call 308-660-6245

Daycare openings for select ages.

Low rates, basic preschool,

school transportation.

602 South Taft • 308-532-0522

6:45 am - 6 pmMon - Fri

Trish Jorgensen DaycareState Lisenced - 24-7 - Nights Available

6 Weeks thru 13 Years of ageTransportation provided for preschool, dance etc...

Years of experience & reasonable rates

Call (308) 530-8329


3-6 years of age



3-6 years of age


NORTH PLATTE COMMUNITYDAY CARE CENTER, INC.

534-9222 or 532-92221210 South Ash • North Platte

State Licensed - 6 weeks to 12 yearsNAEYC Accredidation

HOURS: MONDAY - FRIDAY5:30 am - 11:30 pm

SATURDAY (reservation only)5:30 am - 6:00 pm

Little Monkey’s

Child Care

Children 6 weeks to 13 yearsOpen 24 hrs a day - 7 days a week

HHS approved, State licensedParental web camera system coming soon!

3302 South Willow • 308-532-4688

CHILDCARE & PRESCHOOL20

We support all Lincoln County Moms.100% Customer Satisfaction

321 South Jeffers • 308-532-1805


Tuesday, December 21st was aday of giving for the sixth gradestudents from Hershey ElementarySchool. They gave their time andmoney to make Christmas a littlebrighter at The Connection andthe North Platte Animal Shelter.“The class does a gift exchangeevery year,” said teacher CherilynKuhl. “But this year, instead ofspending money on each other, the

students decided to use it forsomeone else.”On Tuesday morning, the studentsthrew a party at the homeless shelter. They provided meat andcheese platters, vegetable traysand chips, and in return, the shelter residents served root beerfloats and helped them decoratesugar cookies. The students alsohanded out gifts and sangChristmas carols.“It’s kind of hard to find something meaningful for the $3

to $5 allotted for presents,” saidteacher Kelli Holton. “So, theybought each resident socks andtoiletry items. We’re trying to tiein with the Character Counts program and teach the childrenabout civic responsibility.”The sixth grade class has donatedsocks to The Connection before,but it was the first time studentswere able to visit the shelter,which is celebrating its firstChristmas in a new building. On the way back to Hershey, theclass also stopped at the animalshelter and presented it with acheck for $600. Holton said themoney was raised from a recentchallenge.“The elementary classes wenthead to head to collect changeover a two-week period,” saidHolton. “They set up jars andfilled them with change fromhome. This year, the third gradeclass collected the most and wonthe competition, but all the moneywas pooled together and given tothe animal shelter. It’s not for anything in particular, employeescan put toward whatever is neededmost.”It’s the second year the animalshave benefited from the classfundraiser. Holton said $1,200 has

been given altogether.Student Tacie Lucas said shethought the sixth graders set anexample for the younger classes.“It’s taught me that Christmasreally isn’t about getting a lot ofgifts,” said student BritniBrannan. “It’s about not beingselfish and giving to other people.”The fundraiser continues throughDecember 31st.

Hershey Students Give To Local Shelters

Hershey Elementary sixth grade students Tanner Howell, Matt Rixstein and Kendal Naranjomake root beer floats Tuesday at The Connection. The class donated gifts and food to thehomeless shelter and presented a check for $600 to the animal shelter.

Hershey Elementary sixth grade studentSarah Pishna decorates a sugar cookieTuesday at The Connection. The class donated gifts and food to the homeless shelter and presented a check for $600 to theanimal shelter.

We asked some 2nd grade students at Buffalo SchoolWhat do you like most about your mommy? What do you like least?

1. She is always there for me! She says she would probablydo anything for me.

2. Sometimes she's grumpy when she doesn't get enoughsleep.

Shyanne Lambert, 8

1. I don't know. She let's me go outside a lot.

2. When she grounds me.

Jace Hupfer, 8

1. She makes really good cookes. My favorites are oatmealcookies.

2. Whenever she yells at me when I don't clean my room.

Brentney Hansen, 8½

1. She cares about me. I know she cares because she alwayssays she loves me and gives me kisses goodnight.

2. Sometimes I get in trouble. I pick on my brother and sheputs me in time out.

Jay Cooper, 8

1. What I like best is that she reads books to us every night.

2. She smokes and I'm allergic to it, but she's trying to quit,though.

Izaiah Pitre, 7

1. When it's the weekend my friends get to come over andspend the night and stay a long time and she makes choco-late chip cookies.

2. She yells at me 'cause I can't get dressed fast enough andI don't like my shoes loose and have to re-tie them.

Tahjzha Botts, 8

214

Question: Does my child need sealants?

Answer: Sealants are applied to help protect the grooves of teeth that can be hard to clean. It provides a barrierto plaque, and should be applied to the 1st and 2nd permanent molars and appropriate premolars as soon as

possible after they erupt.

Question: What can I do if I'm pregnant?

Answer: It's important for you to take good care of your teeth and gums while you are pregnant.Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that increase your risk of developing gum disease which inturn, can affect the health of your developing baby. Try to make a dental appointment before getting pregnant. That way, your teeth can be professionally cleaned, your gum tissue can be carefully examined, and any oral healthproblems can be treated in advance ofyour pregnancy. During pregnancy keepall regular dental checkups to ensurehealthy teeth and gums.

Lannae Phelps, D.D.S.

Date Time Event Location Contact

Every Tuesday 9:30AM - 10AM Preschool Story Time North Platte Public Library 308-535-8036

Every Tuesday 9:30AM - 10:30 AM Story Time for Children - Ages 3 to Kindergarden North Platte Public Library 308-535-8036

& 1:30PM

Every Thursday 4PM Teen Cafè: Grades 6-12 & Ages 12-18 Invited North Platte Public Library

Every Friday 8PM - 11PM Cosmic Bowling - $2.80 per game Cedar Bowl 308-532-2800

1st & 3rd Friday 8:45AM - 11AM MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Bethel Church

Thru Dec. 30th 5PM - 9PM Cody Park Winter Wonderland Cody Park

December 31 7:30 PM - 11:45 PM Rattling the Rivers Extreme Bull Riding D&N Event CenterPrice at the gate are $12 for adult and $7 for kids

Starts January 4 11AM - 4PM Association of Nebraska Art Clubs The Art & Gift Gallery 308-534-1946

January 5 & 19 9:30AM - 10AM Wee Read for Toddlers Kids North Platte Public Library 308-535-8036

January 15 N/A 10th Annual MV Curtis Elementary Basketball Tourney Medicine Valley High School Gym 308-367-4210Boys Division (3rd & 4th, 5th & 6th) Curtis, NE or 308-367-6451

January 15 N/A 10th Annual MV Curtis Elementary Basketball Tourney Curtis Community Center Gym 308-367-4210Girls Division (3rd & 4th, 5th & 6th) Curtis, NE or 308-367-6451

Starts February 5 11AM - 4PM The "Women's Show" - A tribute to The Art & Gift Gallery 308-534-1946women during national Women's History Month

TO SUBMIT AN EVENT FOR THIS CALENDAREmail events to: [email protected]

Please include event name, date, time, place & contact information.

No phone calls please.

The Telegraph reserves the right to edit and/or omit all or portions of events.

322 ABOUT THE PUBLICATION

Continuing the celebration of Moms everywhere, The North Platte Telegraph, withthe Lincoln County Mommies, has started this publication for Moms in LincolnCounty - LincMOMS - where mothers of all ages throughout Lincoln County canreceive ideas about daycare, education, advice about child rearing (of all ages, ofcourse!), and find and organize safe and fun activities for the kids and the family.A website LincMOMS.com will be coming soon. This will be a social networking site for Lincoln County area stay at home moms, working moms andwork at home moms. Moms can connect and be entertained through forums andblogs. Please keep reading the North Platte Telegraph for further information.The information included in this publication is to further assist mother’s who havean already oh so busy lifestyle. When you're a working mother, you need all the helpyou can get in order to achieve any semblance of work-life balance.Continuing the celebration of Moms everywhere, The North Platte Telegraph, withthe Lincoln County ? has started this publication for Moms in Lincoln County -LincMOMS - where mothers of all ages throughout Lincoln County can receiveideas about daycare, education, advice about child rearing (of all ages, of course!),and find and organize safe and fun activities for the kids and the family.A website LincMOMS.com will be coming soon. This will be a social networkingsite for Lincoln County area stay at home moms, working moms and work at homemoms. Moms can connect and be entertained through forums and blogs. Please keepreading the North Platte Telegraph for further information.The information included in this publication is to further assist mother’s who have

an already oh so busy lifestyle. When you're a working mother, you need all the helpyou can get in order to achieve any semblance of work-life balance.The information included in this publication is to further assist mother’s who havean already oh so busy lifestyle. When you're a working mother, you need all the helpyou can get in order to achieve any semblance of work-life balance.

What is LincMOMS?

By Diane Wetzel

THE NORTH PLATTE TELEGRAPH

Amy Taft, North Platte, has been an active member of Lincoln CountyMommies for three years. She is on the groups events committee and coordinates babysitting for "mommy only" events organized by the group.She is also a member of a national Mommies network retention team thathelps other chapters who may be struggling. For the mother of Brianna, 11, a 5th grader at Buffalo Elementary andwife of Derek, being part of Lincoln County Mommies is important to thestay-at-home mom who does child care in her home."A friend of mine convinced me to sign up," Amy said. "I've met a lot ofgood friends through the group. We all have the same goal, to love ourkids as best we can and help them along the way."Taft has been named the LincMom of the quarter."Lincoln County Mommies is a great outlet," she said. "It's made a tremendous difference in my life."The LCM website was launched in 2007 by Lori Hansen as a way to connect local moms. It is part of the national Mommies Network. "We come from all walks of life," Taft said. "There is something for everybody there, and moms can get as involved as much or as little asthey like." Sitting in her living room with her daughter and husband, Taft said onemessage she would like to get out is for young mothers. "Teenage pregnancy is such an issue," she said. "We could offer so much supportand guidance. We are not a bunch of old ladies sitting around crocheting.It is such a vibrant group and the support is phenomenal." Taft and her husband met on-line and married 10 years ago. "I was a sin-gle young mom for about a year and a half," she said. "I know what it'slike." As moms, it's easy to get trapped in ruts, she said. "I can get melancholy, stuck in the house, especially around the holidays,"

she said. "It's all about everyone else. My involvement in LCM is aboutme - it's my outlet. I can go online every night and get the charge I needto start fresh the next day."Along with online discussion forums, the group also has face-to-faceevents. Some activities are for mommies only, others are child and dadfriendly. "I just joined the book club," Taft said. "We chat online about thebook during the month, then all get together for coffee and goodies to talkabout it and find out the next one on the reading list."Membership in Lincoln County Mommies is free. To find out more or toregister, go to www.lincolncountymommies.com.

Above & Cover Picture: Mom of the quarter Amy Taft, left, poses with her daughterBrianna, 11.

232

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LincMoms - Winter 2011

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