Growing Up In the Valley June 2018

Growing Up S O U T H W E S T & C E N T R A L V I R G I N I A’ S P R E M I E R FA M I LY R E S O U R C E

Volume 6 Issue 10 • June 2018 • Take One

In The Valley

Grocery Goals

Saving Money can be Delicious

& Summer

Vacation Bucket List

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Congratulations to the 2018 graduates across our area!

As Christy’s son graduates this month with honors and Valedictorian from Glenvar High School, she and her team would like to congratulate the entire 2018 graduating classes across our hometown. From personal experience, Christy knows it takes a village and also wants to congratulate all the parents of graduating seniors and wishes everyone well as they move into the next phase.

In life, if we are able to make a difference in the life of a child then it’s been one worth living in Christy’s opinion. She would further like to thank all the teachers across our hometown for doing what they do as well as all the coaches, faculty and volunteers that make finally graduating a possibility.

May our future leaders be, do, and have everything they want as they step out into the world!

Brandon Bayse Realtor Outbound

JR Wray Realtor Operations Manager

Christy Crouch Realtor Team Leader

Tony Crouch Realtor Outbound Agent

www.thecrouchteam.com RE/MAX All Points christy@thecrouchteam.com Call: 540-725-7727 Text 540-312-0085

Jennifer Hanks Realtor Closing Manager

Publisher’s Note Credit Union to launch the 2018 Color the Cover Contest! This annual contest allows local kids to have the opportunity to have their masterpiece on the cover of our magazine! This year, Blue Eagle is chipping in a pretty sweet prize; movie tickets for an entire year! We are accepting entries at all Blue Eagle locations now through July, so don’t miss this great opportunity to have your child’s artwork on our October cover! For all of the details and rules, check out our website which has all of the specifics!

Lastly, June is the month we celebrate all of the fathers out there. Our annual Royal Ball is on June 16th and we are ready to dance the night away with you and your princesses at the Taubman Museum! This event is designed for girls to have a magical time and be treated like a princess by their fathers (or other men in their lives). It is important for us to provide a safe and fun environment for these little princesses to let loose and have fun. It is truly a magical experience that we look forward to every year. At the time of this printing, we have a few tickets left, so hopefully we can see you there!

Don’t worry moms! We have you covered too! Jurassic Valley, our mother-son event, is coming up on July 13th! Check out our website for more information!

J

une is in full swing and that means that SCHOOL IS OUT!

Kids (and teachers!) have been waiting for the end of school since Christmas and we have finally arrived on the end of the school year.

The Eagan Family

Andrea, Josh, Anika and Evelyn

To kick off the summer, we have partnered with Blue Eagle

C ont ac t Us :

P.O. Box 4484, Roanoke, VA 24015 540-251-1660 www.roanoke.family Proud Members of the Parenting Media Association since 2013! Learn more at www.parentmedia.org.

Publishers • Josh & Andrea Eagan josh@virginiafamily.com • Anika and Evelyn’s Parents

Creative Director • Tracy Fisher

tracy@virginiafamily.com • Charlotte and Evelyn’s Mom

Sales Executive • Lisa Bowers lisa@virginiafamily.com • Noah’s Mom

Sales Assistants • Ani & Evie Eagan sales@virginiafamily.com • Bauer and Chloe’s Owners

Community Relations • Jeanne Lawrence jeanne@virginiafamily.com • Parker and Connor’s Mom

Contributors

Peg McGuire • Katie Lewis • Ava Rosa DeVries Beth Farnsworth • Clifford Jackson • Stephanie Ogilvie Brittney Tilson • Jacqueline Moon • Nicole Bruch Takoda Poindexter • Kimberly Emory • Courtney Pugh

Submit Your Ideas Share your story ideas with us by emailing tracy@virginiafamily.com

© Copyright 2018 Mofat Publishing

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We welcome reader comments, submissions and the support of advertisers.

Copy Editor • Jacqueline Moon

We reserve the right to refuse or edit any materials submitted to us that we deem inappropriate for our audience.

Please include a self addressed stamped envelope with any submission to be returned. We do not accept responsiblity for unsolicited materials.

Web Master • Johh Morris • COV Designs

Growing Up In the Valley and Growingupinthevalley.com are published by MoFat Publishing. Growing Up In the Valley is published monthly. The views and the opinions expressed by the writers and advertisers do not necessarily represnt those of Growing Up In the Valley, it’s staff or contributors. The information presented here is for informational purposes only and although every effort has been made to present accurate information, we do not in any way accept responsibility for the accuracy of, or consequences from the use of this information or for the businesses and organizations presented herein. We urge all parents to confirm any information given herein and consult with a doctor or an appropriate professional concerning any information or question. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in part or in whole without the express written consent of the publisher.

jacqueline@virginiafamily.com • Elijah’s Mom, and Luke and Blair’s Stepmom john@covdesigns.com

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READY. SET. SPLASH!

Inside This Issue June 2018

Features 24

Taubman Art Museum The Taubman Art Museum is bringing art and culture to the young and old.

52

Free A-muse-ment A new theater group is bringing Shakespeare to Roanoke in a family friendly format.

Learn and Grow 8

It’s A Money Thing Finding work after graduation can be hard!

6

Home Article

18

Art is Going Down the Drain Roanoke City Stormwater Art Contest raises awareness about river pollution.

Just For Fun 21

Spice Up Your Pizza Bored of pepperoni? Try these toppings to change up your menu!

Resources 36

Go. Play. See. Movie nights, festivals and our Summer Vacation Bucket List!

50

Kids Eat Free What’s for dinner tonight? We have a list of great restaurants offering incredible deals for your families.

On the Cover

Splash into fun at Splash Valley!

Photography provided by Roanoke County Parks & Rec Department.

5 ways gardening and plants can reduce stress I

n today’s busy world, we’re continually searching for new ways to slow down and unwind. This has led more people to discover the calming benefits of gardening and how incorporating plants into decor provides a way to reduce everyday stress.

Studies have shown that indoor plants clean the air by removing 87% of airborne toxins in 24 hours, and can make people more relaxed.

With such pronounced benefits, there are many reasons people who live in crowded cities and spacious suburbs have taken up gardening. For a closer look, we offer these five ways gardening can help you create a stressrelieving sanctuary at home.

Add A Fiddle Leaf Fig To Your Living Room With large, waxy green leaves that look like a fiddle, the photogenic fiddle leaf fig adds a stunning pop of green to any living space. The trees thrive in bright to medium light and prefer room temperatures. Water them only when the surface of the soil is dry or when the leaves start to wilt; you’ll know your tree is happy when its leaves are perked up toward the sun. Caring for the tree energizes your mood and in turn, its healthy green leaves liven up your home.

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Grow An Herb Garden In Your Kitchen Home chefs know how important it is to have fresh herbs on hand.

Rosemary, mint, sage and basil thrive in small terra cotta pots on your sunny windowsill. They not only add the finishing touch to a meal or a refreshing drink, but tending your herbs helps to relieve daily stress while enticing you to experiment with new healthy recipes featuring your homegrown harvest.

Monitor The Air Quality With Aloe Vera Plants Many people know about the medicinal properties in aloe vera plants. Most of us have slathered some on after getting a sunburn. They can also serve as a monitor of air quality because they will display brown spots if something isn’t quite right. Aloe vera thrives in sunny spaces and at room temperature, so make sure to position it near an interior window to help maintain a healthy plant.

Put A Snake Plant In Your Office Or Wherever You’re Most Busy Offices can be some pretty sterile spaces, which can make it hard to stay motivated or feel content during the work day. There are a million and one reasons for putting a plant in your office, and because you need to

focus on the work at hand, you need a stress-free plant. When it comes to caring for a plant, it doesn’t get much easier than a snake plant. They offer a low-maintenance boost of zen, producing oxygen and, because sometimes you go on vacation, can go weeks without water.

Liven Up Your Shaded Bathroom With A Peace Lily The dark leaves and curvy white blossoms on a peace lily are easy on the eyes and easy to grow. Perfect for those less-well-lit areas of the house, peace lilies thrive in shade and can withstand a variety of temperatures.

Looks aside, they’re known for reducing both airborne toxins and mold, making them the perfect plant for bathrooms or other damp areas of your home.

The wellness benefits of caring for and being around plants are endless.

The next time you’re feeling stressed, spend some time in the garden or take a stroll through a park to enjoy the greenery and the natural comfort that comes with being surrounded by plants. To ensure they stay healthy and vibrant, visit www.debugthemyths. com where experts offer more tips and advice on how to care for the plants in your garden and home.

3 warm-weather home cleaning tips Spring is a great time to get rid of the lingering grime and grit of winter to keep your clean home happening all season long. With these tips you can create a vibrant living space for your day-to-day life, whether it’s playing with the kids, tackling your to-do list or simply relaxing.

Wash Your Windows You’ll be surprised how dirty your windows have gotten and how much brighter your home, and outlook, will feel once they are clean. First, remove the screens and use a vacuum’s extendable attachment to remove the loose gunk and dust.

Then, wash with soapy water and a firm brush, rinse with a hose and let air dry. While using a lint-free towel or cloth will help avoid streaks, a car windshield squeegee is the expert choice.

Tackle Indoor Surfaces It’s important to make sure guests at your next get-together experience a clean and healthy home - but a full vacuum bag or clogged filter can reduce suction, leaving the dirt, dust and allergens that build up on many surfaces behind. For an ideal clean, make sure your vacuum is at its peak performance by replacing bags and filters.

Spruce Up Outdoors Winter weather and activities can take a toll on the finishes and surfaces outside your home.

Cleaning a few key areas will refresh your home’s look and feel as you spend more time enjoying your outdoor spaces for birthday parties, barbecues and more: Siding: No need to get complicated -

first, rinse with a garden hose, then scrub the dirty areas with a brush and soapy water and rinse again.

Make sure to avoid chlorine-based bleaches to keep surrounding plants healthy.

Driveway and garage: First, soak up oil, stains and other nasty winter reminders by spreading a drying material, such as sawdust, on the stain. Leave it for one day before scrubbing with soap and water.

A power washer can be used for particularly tough stains.

Grill/barbecue: For gas grills, make sure the propane is disconnected.

Then, soak the grates in hot soapy water and rinse. Scrub thoroughly under the hood and on the inside walls with a hard brush, first covering the heating elements, to get rid of grease and particles from last year.

Wipe down with a damp towel.

Once upon a time..

VALLEY VIEW

TANGLEWOOD

1945 Valley View Blvd.

4235 Electric Rd.

CHRISTIANSBURG

LYNCHBURG

220 Laurel St NE

5401 Fort Ave Growing Up

June 2018

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Provided by Alexa Wootten from Blue Eagle® Credit Union

7 Tips for Tracking Down Your Dream Career Choosing a career is tough. Whether you’re a new grad or considering a career change, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when selecting your next gig. It’s an enormously costly decision in terms of time and money.

In many cases, it defines your lifestyle, determines where you live, how you spend time, and what you can afford.

It influences stress levels and your general happiness. It’s a big deal and, to complicate matters further, there are over 10,000 options to choose from.

The reality is that it’s difficult to get a feel for a career without experiencing it. Even if you have a list of careers you’re interested in, your idea of what those jobs entail is likely based on preconceived notions. Unless you have a friend or a family member working in the field, your idea of what any job looks like in practice might be unrealistic. This lack of information might seem innocent, but it can have some consequences—you may be ruling out your dream job without even knowing it.

The good news? There are many ways you can familiarize yourself with career options before spending major time and money. Experience may be the best teacher, but some targeted research can help. If you’re feeling stuck in a career-decision-making rut, pick out a few of the practices below to build momentum in your search: Quiz yourself (but not too seriously) Personality quizzes and aptitude tests can be helpful in starting your search, as long as you’re realistic about their results. These tests are more about self-assessment than career matchmaking, so use them as self-reflection, rather than a fortuneteller. Personality tests can show you where your priorities lie, what sort of environments you thrive in, and where you fit into a team—all of which will serve you well when considering future

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courses of study and work.

A range of career placement tests are offered online, in schools, and through community programs. If you’re currently a student, check with your counselor to see what career guidance options are available to you.

Local libraries and post-secondary institutions may also be helpful in providing career-related resources.

Shop the course catalog This is a great exercise to brainstorm some options. Pick up a college course catalog and highlight any degrees and courses that sound interesting to you.

Don’t overthink it—the logistics will come later. Just use the catalog as an opportunity to see what you naturally gravitate toward. It doesn’t matter whether or not you plan to actually attend that particular school—or any school, for that matter. Were the courses you selected aligned with your interests? Were there any surprises?

Generate some potential job titles from the areas of study you highlighted and see if that generates new leads in your search. If you’re feeling inspired, reach out to professors or department heads with any questions you have about the field.

Fill your calendar If your eyes are glazing over from scrolling through pages of search results, try a little in-person research!

Attend info sessions, conferences, Q&As, job fairs and free lectures.

Ask questions and chat with other attendees—learning from others’ experiences can be valuable.

Browse those blogs Course catalogs and online job descriptions are great, but they tend to gloss over the mundane aspects of any job. For this reason, it’s important to seek out information from a range of sources. Industry forums, discussion boards, and personal blogs will provide different perspectives on careers you’re interested in: industry forums and discussion boards can highlight current trends and issues the field is

facing, and personal blogs can shed some light on how a lifestyle in a given career can look.

Hashtag help Why stop your search at personal blogs? Go deep by taking your career search to social media. A hashtag could be your key to discovering an entire online community of people who share your career dreams. Much like scoping out personal blogs, social media posts may help round out your mental image of what it means to work in a field.

Potential new contacts, resources and mentors could be just one Instagram, Twitter or Facebook hashtag away!

Be brave and reach out Your research will lead you to discovering career role models.

Maybe they gave a presentation at the conference you attended or maybe you stumbled upon a helpful YouTube tutorial. Be brave and reach out to them—acknowledge their contributions, thank them for their influence, and test the waters by asking those career questions that you just can’t seem to find the answer to anywhere else. If the advice you’re looking for can’t be provided in a simple email, request their time—see if there’s potential for a phone call, a Skype chat, or a quick consultation over coffee. Worst-case scenario: nothing changes. Best-case scenario: you solidify your career goals and gain a mentor in the process.

Be generous with your time Keep your eye out for volunteer, internship or job-shadowing opportunities that will allow you to learn more about the careers you’re interested in. Even if your volunteer duties don’t have crossover with your dream job, the opportunity will give you a chance to observe some of the more nuanced aspects of a career and rack up some resumé boosters. You may even develop some new skills and connect with future colleagues and mentors.

Growing Up in the Valley’s

Color the Cover Contest

Presented by Blue Eagle Credit Union

Create an illustration of your dream or goal for yourself or our community. Bring your dream alive by using any style, media and colors of your choice. Turn in your completed entry at any Blue Eagle Credit Union office and bring your final report card because good grades pay with their Report Card Rewards program! Earn $2 for each A and $1 for each B, learn more at BlueEagleCreditUnion.com. For contest details and rules visit GrowingUpInTheValley.com/color-contest-2018

Parent of the Month

Courtney Wiegard

Courtney Weigard, a local veterinarian, lives in South Roanoke with her husband Spencer, partner at Gentry Locke Attorneys, and two daughters, Elliott (10) and Brynne (8).

When did you decide you wanted to be a veterinarian?

I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian since I was 4 years old.

Did you have pets growing up?

I did grow up with cats, dogs and bunnies!

Do you have pets now?

Currently the Wiegard Pet Crew consists of 4 dogs: Annie (retriever/ spaniel mix), Spanky (French Bulldog rescue), Milla (beagle mix) and Moneypenny (Great Dane Boxer), 2 cats Bailey and Chipper and 2 tree frogs.

Where did you go to school?

I went to Denison University for undergrad where I played college basketball and then Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine for veterinary school.

How long have you been practicing in SWVA? I have been a veterinarian at Vinton Veterinary Hospital since graduating in May of 2005!

you with unconditional love, take work. This means training as well as preventative, wellness care. This also means being there and providing for them in times of illness.

What piece of advice would you give a person considering getting a pet?

What piece of advice would you give to a person who wants to become a vet themselves?

Be sure to do your research. Owning a pet is a huge, LIFE LONG commitment to this animal. They completely rely on you for food, water, shelter and love.

This means for better or for worse. You cannot give up on your pet because they misbehave or are disobedient.

Companion animals, while providing

Be sure to do your research! Get first hand experience in the field before perusing this as a career. Veterinary medicine comes with many, many ups and downs. It is not all puppies and kittens. It is life and death. There are tough and heart breaking situations.

That being said, there are many joys

Expires August 31, 2018

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Not only do I develop a bond with my furry patients but with the humans that come with them. I have developed some incredible friendships over the years from being the health care provider these special companion animals. Some of the most touching stories are ones that come out of heartbreaking situations.

Most recently we had puppy with a badly broken leg who had been neglected and then surrendered.

I watched one of my amazing colleagues pour her heart and soul into fixing this dog and then it went to the most grateful and loving family. Receiving texts and videos of the puppy in her new home with her new canine sister and seeing how happy the puppy and new owners are makes it all worthwhile.

What's the best way for an pet owner to support their animal's health?

Once you have made the decision to adopt, rescue or purchase a companion animal, be sure you have the resources to provide for their wellness and illness

What common pet owner habit is your pet peeve?

Just one? Probably now the “grain-free” fad in pet food. The amount of marketing done to entice the human part of the equation is insane. Grains are not the enemy and are actually provide a lot nutritionally for our companion animals.

Majority of pet food allergies are to the protein (meats such as beef, chicken, and pork as well as dairy).

The other would be the “raw food” fad. Not only is this dangerous for your pets (think E. coli and other pathogens in raw foods) but it is very dangerous for the humans preparing the food.

Raw diets are rarely complete and balanced for what companion animals need and they will not provide the necessary nutritional requirements.

B.R.E.A.S.T. Roanoke

We aim to empower women across racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic boundaries to create space for themselves and their children in their work and leisure life, so as to breastfeed their children as they see fit.

Do you support any local animal charities?

I proudly serve as Vice President of the board of St. Francis Service Dogs.

This organization provides an amazing service for people with disabilities as well as fosters the incredible humananimal bond. My husband, Spencer, is the Vice President for the Roanoke Valley SPCA and Vinton Veterinary Hospital proudly supports the RVSPCA with discounted and pro bono services as well as actively supports their fundraising efforts. I also provide “airtime” for an animal from the Franklin County Humane Society when I appear on Daytime Blue Ridge each month.

If you could live life as any animal, which would you choose?

I would be a cat in the house of many of my clients. I could be lazy and sleep and eat all day!

In your experience, what is the most common cat name?

Probably Tiger for a tabby or Callie for a calico.

What is always in your purse/bag/ wallet?

About twenty pens from different veterinary meetings, hair ties (for my little hoopster), bobby pins (for my little ballerina), What would your friends be surprised to learn about you?

I’m not sure much would surprise my friends. I am pretty much an open book and probably share too much as it is.

Support & Projects

Any memorable clients? Funny or touching stories?

care. This means monthly parasite control, proper vaccinations, great quality food, and environmental stimulation. There are many pet insurances options as well as wellness care plans now that help owners support all their pet care needs.

Get in Touch

and it can be incredibly fulfilling.

Bi-Monthly Meet-Ups Facebook Community Baby Station at Events Connecting with Health Professionals & Businesses & More!!

BREASTRoanoke.org BREASTRoanoke@gmail.com Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @BREASTRoanoke Growing Up

June 2018

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Rock Candy Science

Experiment provided by Science Museum of Western VA Directions: 1. Boil one cup of water in a saucepan.

2. Add sugar, one cup at a time, stirring until all of the sugar has dissolved. If all three cups dissolve into the water, add more sugar in 1/4 cup increments until no more will dissolve.

3. After all of the sugar is dissolved and no more sugar will go into solution, add food coloring if desired.

4. Allow the sugar solution to cool to room temperature.

5. While the sugar solution is cooling, dip your skewer or cake pop stick into the solution several times. After the stick has been dipped, roll it in sugar and set it aside to dry.

6. When the sugar solution reaches room temperature, pour it into a tall glass.

7. Once the stick has dried, place it into the glass of sugar solution. Use the clothespins to balance the stick so that it is not touching the sides or bottom of the glass.

8. Keep the glass in a warm place (with a paper towel on top of it) for at least two days (or up to a week), checking on the rock candy at the end of the second day. By the end of the week you should see rock candy crystals on the stick.

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Supplies: 1 cup of water Saucepan Wooden spoon or stirrer 3 cups of granulated cane sugar Cake pop stick or skewer Clothespins Tall glass Food coloring (optional) What’s Happening?

When you heat the water and add sugar, you are creating a super-saturated solution. Essentially you put more sugar into the water then it could normally hold. All of the extra sugar will fall out of solution as the water starts to cool. When you roll the stick in sugar, you are “seeding” it and creating places for the extra sugar crystals to form as they fall out of solution.

Try experimenting with the places you leave the sugar solution to cool to see if that changes the crystal shape. If you leave your rock candy to cool in a dark place are the crystals bigger? What happens if you leave it in a warmer place? Or a cooler place?

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the Future is a perennial favorite in classrooms and on family movie nights across the country. This picture book by Kim Smith captures all the classic moments of the film. We’ll follow teenage Marty McFly as he travels from 1985 to 1955, meets his young parents, and teaches his father how to stand up to bullies. The story comes complete with a timetraveling DeLorean, a crazy mad scientist companion, and a lightning-fueled finale!

Dude!

by Aaron Reynolds and Dan Santat Ages 3+

GREAT SCOTT! Fun Books for Summer Reading Scarlett Hart: Monster Hunter

by Marcus Sedgwick & Thomas Taylor Ages 10+

A beautifully illustrated graphic novel features Scarlett Hart, orphaned daughter of two legendary monster hunters, who is determined to carry on in her parents’ footsteps—even if the Royal Academy for the Pursuit and Eradication of Zoological Eccentricities says she’s too young to fight perilous horrors.

But whether it’s creepy mummies or a horrid hound, Scarlett won’t back down, and with the help of her loyal butler and a lot of monster-mashing gadgets, she’s on the case. With her

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parents’ archrival Count Stankovic ratting her out to T.R.A.P.E.Z.E. and taking all the monster-catching rewards for himself, it’s getting hard for Scarlett to do what she was born to do. And when more monsters start mysteriously manifesting than ever before, Scarlett knows she has to get to the bottom of it and save the city... whatever the danger!

Back to the Future

by Kim Smith Ages 3+

Great Scott! This picture book takes readers on a wild time-traveling trip BACK TO THE FUTURE! Even thirty years after its theatrical debut, Back to

Dude! You have to read this book. Aaron Reynolds, the author of Nerdy Birdy and Creepy Carrots! teams up with Dan Santat, the Caldecott–winning illustrator behind The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend to create the hilarious, gnarly summer adventure picture book, Dude! It’s totally about this platypus and this beaver who are friends. They want to go surfing, but dude, there’s this shark who’s in the ocean, too. But don’t worry. This shark approaches and you’ll never guess what happens.

Alma and How She Got Her Name

grandfather who was an artist; and other namesakes, too. As she hears the story of her name, Alma starts to think it might be a perfect fit after all—and realizes that she will one day have her own story to tell. In her author-illustrator debut, Juana Martinez-Neal opens a treasure box of discovery for children who may be curious about their own origin stories or names.

My Dear Hamilton: A Novel of Eliza Schuyler Hamilton

by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie Ages 16+

From the New York Times bestselling authors of America’s First Daughter comes the epic story of Eliza Schuyler Hamilton—a revolutionary woman who, like her new nation, struggled to define herself in the wake of war, betrayal, and tragedy. Haunting, moving, and beautifully written, Dray and Kamoie used thousands of letters and original sources to tell Eliza’s story as it’s never been told before—not just as the wronged wife at the center of a political sex scandal, but also as a founding mother who shaped an American legacy in her own right. This book is a necessity for any fan of the Broadway show Hamilton.

by Juana Martinez-Neal Ages 3+

If you ask her, Alma Sofia Esperanza José Pura Candela has way too many names: six! How did such a small person wind up with such a large name?

Alma turns to Daddy for an answer and learns of Sofia, the grandmother who loved books and flowers; Esperanza, the great-grandmother who longed to travel; José, the

Growing Up in the Valley and Hometown Bank are proud to present Star City Little Libraries around the Roanoke Valley area. Stop by and find a new literary treasure!

Star City Little Library Need a Book? Take a Book. Have a Book? Leave a Book.

Little Libraries are a great way to spread literacy and entertainment throughout our communities. Every month Growing Up in the Valley will restock the little libraries with great books for your whole family and we welcome your donations as well! Stop by our locations to see what surprises we have in store, and maybe leave a gently used book for someone else to enjoy.

Locations:

Hometown Bank – 3521 Franklin Rd SW - Roanoke, VA 24014 & 4225 Colonial Ave – Roanoke, VA 24018 Roanoke Ballet Theatre – 1318 Grandin Rd SW – Roanoke, VA 24015 Launching Pad – 1300 Intervale Dr – Salem, VA 24153 LewisGale Medical Center – 1900 Electric Rd – Salem, VA 24153 Amtrak Station – Downtown Roanoke Kirk Family YMCA Lower Entrance – Downtown Roanoke Roanoke Main Post Office - 419 Rutherord Avenue - Roanoke, VA 24022 Bounce Roanoke - 3424 Orange Avenue - Roanoke, VA 24012 Smart Beginnings/United Way - 325 Campbell Avenue SW - Roanoke, VA 24011 Prestige Gymnastics - 2726 Lee Highway - Troutville, VA 24175

One in seven One in seven children won’t be children won’t ready to to start be ready start kindergarten.* kindergarten.*

Don’t Don’t let let your child your child be be the theone. one.

Virginia’s childrenbehind are already behind when they start ThousandsThousands of Virginia’sofchildren are already when they start kindergarten.

And And too often,their parents are surprised to learn their child too often, kindergarten. parents are surprised to learn child is one of them. It’s devastating, is one them.

It’s andemotional can leadproblems to a higher risk of of costly and can lead to a of higher risk ofdevastating, costly social and for the rest social and emotional problems for the rest of the child’s life.

It hurts the child’s life. It hurts our kids. It hurts our communities. But it is something we can our kids.sure It hurts But it is something we can change. Make change. Make your our childcommunities. is ready for kindergarten.

One in seven children won’t be ready to start kindergarten.* ®

For United moreWay information, please contact: Roanoke Valley MegofFitzwater, Director, Early Learning Strategies

sure your child is ready for kindergarten.

*The Annie E. Casey Foundation: KIDS COUNT Data Center. (2010). PALS-K Scores.

* The Annie E. Casey Foundation: KIDS COUNT Data Center. (2010). PALS-K Scores.

Thousands of Virginia’s children are already Smart Beginnings Greater Roanoke For more information, please contact: Smart Beginnings Greater Roanoke behind when they mfitzwater@uwrv.org / (540)283-2786 / smartbeginningsroanoke.org / Find usstart on: kindergarten. And too sbgr@uwrv.org | (540) 283-2778 | smartbeginningsroanoke.org often, parents are surprised to learn their child

Don’t let

is one of them. It’s devastating, and can lead to a higher risk of costly social and emotional

S

tudies show that summer brain drain can be a formidable force, setting kids’ progress back over the long break from the classroom. But you can help kids avoid losing their academic mojo.

Take a Hike Not all learning has to happen indoors or while sitting still. Take a family nature walk and ask kids to pay special attention to the plant and animal species

16

Growing Up

June 2018

you encounter on your journey, as well as any special rock formations or other geological features you see, taking notes and photographs as you go. Once back home, do some research about the most interesting things that you saw.

Make Music Music education is important for budding minds, and learning music at home in summer can be easy

and affordable. Stock your household with a portable keyboard designed for students in mind. Piano scales can teach math and language skills.

Read Outdoors Summer is the perfect opportunity for students to delve deep into what interests them most. Make a day of it.

First stop: the library or bookstore, where kids can find reading materials dealing with

their favorite topics.

Then, pack a picnic lunch and find a shady spot in a local park or your own backyard, to read outdoors. At the end of the day, everyone can discuss what he or she read.

Math Fun Make math more fun with a free, all-in-one web-based mathematics resource like www.

Classpad.net, that allows users to draw geometry figures freehand and input calculations as they would on real scratch paper. Geared for K-12+ mathematics students, the app is designed to be equally usable by keyboard/ mouse and touchscreenbased platforms, so that students can keep up their math skills wherever their summer adventures take them.

Take a Vacation Going somewhere new and interesting? In advance of your trip, have kids spend some time learning about the history and culture of your destination. If you’re going abroad, they can even learn some basics of a foreign language.

To keep minds active all summer long, be sure to combine learning and fun.

BEST APPS FOR SUMMER Brain Quest

From the popular workbook series, a free app for grades 1 5 with 28 levels.

Toddler Counting & Alphabets Dinosaurs Letter and number puzzles and games in the age of the dinosaurs.

Toontastic

Make up your own stories, which you can narrate yourself.

Stack the States

Learn about each state as you race against the clock.

Word Wall HD

A game for beginning readers.

Sight Word Bingo Sight word bingo.

Goofy Mad Libs Word fun!

Scribblenauts Remix

A cool game of problem solving, spelling, and creative thinking.

Rush Hour

Strategy game for one player.

Why Oakey’s Pet Funeral Home & Crematory?

Our professional and compassionate staff will pick up your pet and deliver from anywhere* and are available 24/7. We provide private cremation for peace of mind, have a variety of urns and memorial products to choose from and offer pre-arrangement and grief support services as well.

We’re here so that saying goodbye is a little easier. *$2.25/mile beyond 25 miles

Math Monsters Math facts game.

Math Girl Addition House

Math games for 4-6 year olds.

Cat Physics

Play this ball game and you’ll be learning the principals of physics.

540.265.7297 www.oakeypetloss.com M-F 8 am-5 pm | Sat. 8 am-12 pm Sun. Noon-5 pm | 24/7 BY PHONE Growing Up

June 2018

17

Art is Going Down the Drain

Article by Takoda Poindexter

I

n a world dictated by the reins of pollution and waste, one can begin to wonder and hunt for a greener view of reality. Why let the population dictate the fate of the delicate resources of the environment? Instead, prescribe a dictate for the population, a chance to let the environment replenish its resources.

In the City of Roanoke, there is a clean and green business that values change for a healthier planet—Roanoke Stormwater. What do they do, exactly?

They work diligently and efficiently to help clean the trash and pollution from the surrounding area’s rivers. They are innovative thinkers who, over the years, have turned Roanoke in a more beautiful place. Recently, they have had local artists display their talents not on walls, but on the canvases of storm drains. The artists displayed a pressing, serious issue in a lighthearted fashion.

One of the inlets, painted by Tyla Maiden, (found at Church Avenue/ 1st Street near the downtown post office), expresses how toxic waste harms the nature of the river, the fish, and even the trees. Around the drain is the caption, “Only Rain Down the Drain.” This quote has an open-ended stipulation that “streams” back to your basic science classes: The drain connects to the rivers, which in turn branch off to other rivers, lakes, bays, and eventually the ocean.

If toxic waste is dumped into the drain, this matter will subsequently harm every aspect of nature.

Roanoke Stormwater also partnered with RIDE Solutions to host a “Drains to Streams” social bike ride last Thursday at 5 p.m. It began at the city’s main library and toured the storm drain artwork through the town. Transporting by buses, cars, and other vehicles emits exhaust fumes that dirty the air. If just one person rides a bike instead of a car or bus, he or she reduces the amount of greenhouse gas emissions by 1,500 kg each year. Biking is pollution-free, and only uses minimal fossil fuels. Besides these green effects, it is also healthier for you, and it’s great way to tour Roanoke City and view the beautiful artwork displayed on the drains.

“Drains to Streams” is the first inlet art project, but it isn’t the only project that Roanoke Stormwater has hosted.

They’ve also organized street-sweeping competitions and cleanups, and they even added a new rain garden at the newly renovated Williamson Road library.

By using the drain inlets as canvases, informative and friendly messages are being displayed to the public to help promote and protect a better environment.

All a person has to do is to make one choice to help our community by riding a bike, recycling, or even helping a vibrant institution such as Roanoke Stormwater.

Let’s spread the art and “be part of the solution, not the pollution. Together, we can create a Clean Water Legacy!” All it takes is one choice to make a difference.

Everyone Deserves a Party.

Fun Times Party Warehouse has party supplies, decorations, rentals and entertainment services for all occasions.

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Growing Up

June 2018

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Estimated monthly payment on a 15-year loan of $100,000 is $778. Estimated monthly payment on a 20-year loan of $100,000 is $659. Fees and loan amount may affect the APR.

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Try Something New

Pizza The cheese-tomato-garlic crowd-pleasing classic fast dinner deserves a new twist. Plus, you may be able to sneak some vegetables on there if you’re clever.

South of the Border Spice up the night with a Mexicaninspired pizza. Add corn, peppers, jalapeĂąos, onions with your favorite melting cheese and sausage. You can also use salsa rather than tomato sauce.

Sweet Desserts Turn your night upside down and start with dessert first! Use your favorite shortbread cookie recipe to make a base and top with caramel sauce and thinly slices apples. Spritz with some lemon juice and dust the crust with butter and sugar.

Load the Veggies Medicine may go down easier with a spoonful of sugar, but the best way to get kids (or picky adults!) to try new vegetables is to serve them on crispy bread smothered with cheese!

Try olives, yellow squash, zucchini, spinach, broccoli, or cauliflower!

Growing Up

June 2018

21

Myths about Strokes

Article provided by Brandpoint

Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. has some type of stroke. Even though stroke is a leading cause of disability in America, it is largely preventable and treatable. As May is American Stroke Month, it’s the perfect time to brush up on the facts to stay as healthy as possible.

Bayer Aspirin is a national sponsor of the American Stroke Association’s Together To End Stroke initiative, which aims to educate and empower people to make simple lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of another stroke. Arming people with information about stroke is one step in achieving this goal.

One in every four clot-related (ischemic) strokes happens after a prior stroke. Fortunately, up to 80 percent of

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22

Growing Up

June 2018

recurrent clot-related (ischemic) strokes can be prevented with the right steps.

“There are simple things you can do to help prevent another stroke such as managing blood pressure and cholesterol, stopping smoking, eating healthy, staying active, and a doctordirected aspirin regimen,” said Dr. Mary Ann Bauman, M.D., a Seattlebased primary care internist, national board member for the American Heart Association and former chair for the American Stroke Association Advisory Committee. “It is important to raise awareness so that everyone understands the facts around stroke.”

So understand your risks and ask your doctor about an aspirin regimen.

Aspirin is not appropriate for everyone, so be sure to talk to your doctor before you begin an aspirin regimen.

Here are some stroke myth-busters that could not only help save your life but also help save the life of someone you love.

Myth: Strokes won’t happen to me Clot-related (ischemic) strokes are the most common type of stroke, accounting for 87 percent of all cases. They happen when a blockage interrupts the flow of blood to the brain. Every year, nearly 800,000 people in the U.S. have a stroke, which is actually the same as the annual number of heart attacks; that’s why managing your risks is so important.

Myth: Men and women have the same risks for stroke.

More women than men have some type of stroke each year. A stroke can

happen to a woman at almost any age - even to women in their 20s. This year alone, more than 100,000 U.S. women under 65 will suffer some kind of stroke. Most women don’t realize that the medical regimen they receive for other conditions can increase the risk of stroke.

Many of those strokes can be avoided by simply being aware of the risks and talking with your doctor to make the appropriate changes.

For example, birth control pills could double the stroke risk for women compared to women who don’t take birth control pills.

risk of another clot-related (ischemic) stroke. These conditions raise the risk of stroke as well as heart attack.

And while you may take prescription medications to manage these conditions, they may not be enough to protect your heart.

Adding aspirin, which works differently, to your treatment plan may further help prevent another heart attack or ischemic stroke.

“It is important to raise awareness so that everyone understands the facts around stroke.”

Myth: All races or ethnicities have the same risk factors.

Not all races and ethnicities have the same risk factors. The risk of stroke among African American men is actually twice as high as Caucasian men. According to the American Stroke Association, the prevalence of high blood pressure in African-Americans is the highest in the world. Not only is high blood pressure more severe in African-Americans, but it also develops earlier in life. Getting your blood pressure checked regularly is one of the easiest things you can do to manage your risk of stroke.

Myth: I’m already taking prescription medications, that should be enough.

Prescription medications for high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes may not be enough to reduce your

Myth: There’s nothing I can do to prevent a stroke.

Fifty percent of stroke risk factors can be controlled through lifestyle choices.

Some tips on how include: • Get fit and stay active • Eat healthy • Control your cholesterol • Control your blood pressure • Quit smoking • Ask your doctor about an aspirin regimen* *Aspirin is not appropriate for everyone, so be sure to talk to your doctor before you begin an aspirin regimen.

Visit bayeraspirin.com/stroke for more information and resources about preventing another stroke.

COMMONWEALTHGAMES.ORG Athlete Tailgate Party & Opening Ceremonies - July 27, at Liberty University

Growing Up

June 2018

23

The Taubman Museum of Art Sparking Artistic Inspiration to Both the Young and Old Y

o u can’t miss the Taubman Museum of Art. As you drive down Williamson Road, you see the metallic peak pointing upwards and the curves of the building arching and flowing like the beautiful mountains surrounding Roanoke.

The gorgeous surroundings were the main inspiration behind the contemporary structure, designed by renowned architect Randall Stout.

Executive Director Cindy Petersen said, “He was very purposeful in mirroring the Blue Ridge Mountains, basing his

design off the natural setting around Roanoke and bringing it into the downtown area.” Celebrating ten years this November, the Taubman has grown in notoriety and in community support.

Article by Nicole Bruch | Photography provided by Taubman Museum of Art

COMMUNITY

The Roanoke Valley is a very community-centered place; it’s one of the numerous reasons people love it here. The Taubman is no exception.

They are very community-focused in their mission: to bring people and

art together for discovery, learning, and enjoyment. Through their free general admission program, sponsored local companies (Appalachian Power and Haley Toyota of Roanoke), the museum is fully accessible to anyone who wants to visit basic exhibits.

“Having the barrier of an admission charge lifted allows for the museum to be welcoming and meaningful for everyone,” Petersen explained.

Along with free admission for anyone who wants to view their exhibits, the

130 local artists showcase and sell their pieces.

Families are encouraged to come into the museum to beat the heat outside and have their children participate in The Rescue Mission of Roanoke’s drawing contest for their annual Drumstick Dash T-shirt. While this is already a great event to showcase local talent, it is also used as a space to promote events for other nonprofits in the area who are doing wonderful work.

EDUCATION

THIS SUMMER AT THE TAUBMAN Summer is about to kick into high gear once school lets out and it starts to heat up outside. Here are a few exciting things going on at the Taubman that may interest you and your family. Check their website for up-to-date event details.

60th Sidewalk Art Show

More than 130 artists take over the Taubman and surrounding streets to showcase and sell their works. (June 2-3)

Summer Camps

Available for kids ages 5-10, with topics such as bookmaking, clay creations, painting, and more. (June 4 – August 17; specific dates for camps vary)

Artful Chess

Life-size chess pieces on a large chessboard—challenge your friends! (June 28 - June 30; July 25-28)

Paint Your Pet

A class dedicated to painting your favorite pet. (July 6)

Yoga at the Taubman

Enjoy the relaxing practice of yoga at the museum. (Every Monday from 12:301:30pm)

Taubman also places an emphasis on supporting and empowering local artists. Every three years, the Taubman hosts the “Homeward Bound Triennial,” a competition and showcase of artists from all over Virginia. Of the submissions (there were more than 1,000 during their 2016 cycle), the ones chosen by the jurors are displayed. Then the overall winner is awarded an opportunity to have his or her artwork exhibited in a gallery at the Taubman Museum.

Another great event that ignites the creative juices in local artists, and rouses potential future collectors, is the Monster Art Rally.

Held in May of each year, the Monster Art Rally attracts forty artists, from emerging to professional.

These artists paint on-site, and then their pieces are auctioned off later in the day.

Celebrating its 60th year is the Sidewalk Art Show, happening June 2-3 at the Taubman and the streets surrounding it. More than

“Over 16,000 children are touched by our educational outreach within schools,” Petersen stated. The highlight of the Taubman’s educational programs, she said, is Art Venture.

Started in 2012, Art Venture is an interactive exhibit specifically designed for children ages twelve months to seventeen years.

It offers fourteen different stations, including painting, printmaking, drawing, sculpture, music and visual art, science, a pre-toddler area, color wheel, 3D printing, and much more.

These are constantly being rotated, and the themes are periodically changed to align with current exhibits in the main galleries. Art Venture is not included in the free admission (unless you are a member), and the cost is $5 per person, with children 23 months and below free.

INSPIRING A NEW GENERATION OF ARTISTS If you are looking for creative ways for your family to express themselves, or just to try something new, you need to check the Taubman’s website for their class schedules—they offer calligraphy, painting,

multimedia art, sculpture, and more.

There are classes for all age ranges, including toddlers, children, teens, and adults. They also range in ability from beginner to advanced. “Exposure to art in children builds creativity, sparks the imagination, and encourages conversation,” Petersen explained. “It also allows them to look at things from a different perspective.”

SPANNING GENERATIONS

In addition to educating and inspiring the youth of the community, the Taubman is striving to connect with the senior population in future community outreach initiatives.

Currently in development is a program to encourage intergenerational artbased activities with older adults and preschoolers.

“Exposure to art in children builds creativity, sparks the imagination, and encourages conversation.”

The Taubman also spans generations with the varying nature of their exhibits. From older classics, like the charming works of Norman Rockwell, to the exquisitely detailed jeweled handbags of Judith Leiber, their collections encompass a vast range of artistic expression. While they rotate exhibits with their statewide partner, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Taubman boasts a permanent collection of their own that includes more than 2,000 pieces. Yes, you read that right: more than 2,000! These are rotated out periodically, and the museum routinely reviews more pieces to add, either through donation or working with outside curators.

VISION FOR THE FUTURE

The Taubman already has a huge presence and impact in the community, but the vision for the future of the museum seeks to further immerse the Roanoke Valley into the arts.

Petersen describes the Taubman’s vision for the next 10 years: “We want to reach the community where they are and offer interactive, inspiring ways to get people interested in art.”

She emphasized that the Taubman strives to be “an open and inclusive art museum for the community, while being extremely accessible, welcoming, and meaningful to everyone.”

Birthday Parties • Group Events • Glow in the Dark Parties • Fundraisers

Trampolines & So Much More!

Basketball • Dodgeball • Jousting Pit • Fidget Ladder Pit • Airbag Pit Launch Tower • Arcade With Redemption Prizes • Bumper Cars Snack Bar • Lounge With Free Wifi • Electronic Lockers • 5 Party Rooms

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Growing Up

June 2018

27

Saving money can be delicious.

Article by Kimberly Emory

F

ood is one of the things we shop for the most often and spend the most money on. Since the grocery budget is probably one of the largest expenses a family has, being able to save money in this area is crucial. Below are a number of tips for saving money at the grocery store. Some are common sense, and some I picked up from other money-savvy parents.

MEAL PLAN! Decide ahead of time what you are going to eat for the week, including all meals and snacks. However, this is more than just making a decision about what recipes to make—it’s also being smart about what you choose. First, shop your own pantry and refrigerator—maybe you have everything you need for lasagna except cheese, or you just need a vegetable to go with a dish you have all of the other the ingredients for. Check the sales ad for the week; if there’s a great sale on chicken breasts or bell peppers, plan your meals around those.

Meat is usually the most expensive part of a meal, so trying to plan a meatless meal once a week or so is a good way to save money.

MAKE A LIST—AND STICK TO IT! Once you know what you are serving, you will know what you need to buy.

Don’t buy things that aren’t on the list!

Check your grocery ads for the week to see if there’s a great deal on anything else you use regularly so you can add it to the list. Many people now use an online grocery shopping service, such as Kroger ClickList or Walmart Pickup,

because this way the shoppers are not tempted to buy items they don’t need.

Many say that even if they have to pay for the service (Kroger charges $5, for instance), it still ends up saving them money for this very reason. Also, only going to the grocery store once a week is a good way to save money, since you don’t have the opportunity to spend if you’re not in the store. If you don’t get something on your weekly shopping trip, you’ll just have to make do without it until the next week!

HAVE A BUDGET—AND TRY TO BEAT IT! It’s important to decide how much you are going to spend on groceries for the month or week, however you decide to break it down. You can come up with the number based on your income and number/ages of people you are feeding, or you can look at receipts/ bank statements from previous months to see how much you have spent in the past. If you think the number is too high, challenge yourself to lower it in increments of $100, $50, or $20 (whatever you deem attainable) each cycle until you think it’s appropriate.

It also helps to use cash when you shop for your groceries, because you can’t spend what you don’t have! At the beginning of each month, I take out the cash for the month’s groceries and put it in an envelope. That money has to last the whole month, so it really makes me think twice about what I’m buying and whether we really need certain items (especially junk food!).

As you shop, keep a tally of everything you put in your cart—for example, an item that costs $1.69 gets 2 tally marks, and an item that is $.59 gets

1. This way, when you check out, you aren’t surprised by the total, and you usually come in under the amount you think you will see on the register. One mom enters everything into the online shopping cart at her grocery store, gets her total, then prints it out and goes to the store to purchase. This way she not only knows her expected total, but she has a printed list.

BE SMART ABOUT WHAT GOES IN YOUR CART! Buying things in season when they are cheapest is the smartest way to go.

If something is not in season, you can often buy it in the frozen section fairly inexpensively as well. You can also buy in bulk and freeze for later, especially when it comes to fruits, veggies, and meats. I almost never buy prepackaged/snack-packed foods, like individual cups of applesauce or snack sized portions of crackers. Instead, I just buy a jar of applesauce or a box of snack crackers, and put portions into reusable plastic containers for my kids’ lunches. Also, buying generic is almost always cheaper than the name-brand products, and there is usually not much difference in taste or quality, if any at all.

ALWAYS HAVE A PLAN B! Keep certain staples on hand, like pasta, peanut butter, lunch meats, pizza dough, sauces, cheese, eggs, and pancake mix, so you can always whip up a meal if you need to. It’s also a great idea to make double batches of casseroles or stews and freeze them, so you can pull them out in a pinch and have a meal ready to go. And of Growing Up

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Aldi

Food Lion

Kroger

Target

Wal-Mart

GROCERY PRICE COMPARISON Gallon of Whole Milk

$ 2.39

$2.99

$2.79

$2.94

$2.39

Loaf of Wheat Bread

$1.49

$1.79

$1.19 $1.19

$1.53

1 Dozen Eggs

$1.08

$1.69

$1.29*

$0.99

$1.08

1 lb Apples

$0.96

$1.00

$1.99

$3.00

$1.17

1 lb Bananas

$0.44

$0.58

$0.59

$0.87

$0.44

1 pack of Diapers

$0.10

$0.13

$0.12*

$0.12

$0.09

1 lb Ground Beef

$2.99

$2.76

$3.49

$3.99

$2.97

1 lb Cheddar Cheese Total:

$1.69

$3.99

$3.49*

$3.99

$2.94

$15.33 $20.29 $19.12 $21.26 $16.50 * Denotes Sales Price.

Diapers priced per diaper. All products were store brand.

course, don’t forget about leftovers! Planning to make more than you’ll eat can cause the meal to stretch to lunch the next day or dinner later in the week when you’re in a pinch.

SHOP AROUND AND USE COUPONS! Just because the grocery store you usually go to is familiar and convenient doesn’t mean it has the best prices. Check out other stores and see if you can save money going elsewhere. Many families also like club memberships like Sam’s or BJ’s (coming soon!) for reducing costs by buying in bulk. The cost of a membership can even be shared among friends.

Of course, using coupons is great money saver, too. Some stores, like Aldi, do not take coupons. Others, like Kroger, will send you coupons in the mail based on things you’ve bought in the past, if you use the store loyalty card. Kroger also has online coupons you can load onto your loyalty card, and they will be applied

automatically when you purchase those items. There are always paper coupons from your weekly newspaper inserts, as well.

Just make sure that when you use a coupon, you also use the product, or you’re not really saving money at all!

After you shop, make sure to take advantage of apps that can save you money. Walmart has Savings Catcher, and there are apps like Ibotta and Checkout 51 that pay you rebates on certain items when you scan a grocery receipt containing those products.

You could See your ad here Next month

email josh@virginiafamily.com

DON’T FORGET! • Never shop on an empty stomach!

• Shop the outer perimeter of the store. There, you’ll find fewer processed foods—they will keep you feeling fuller longer, and help growing bodies stay healthy.

• Don’t buy more than you need or can use before it goes bad. In most cases, just because something is 10 for $10 doesn’t mean you have to buy that many to get the deal.

BEECHTOWN YOGA STUDIO

• Don’t forget about farmers’ markets and produce stands. They’re a great place to get fresh, local fruits and veggies for a great price! Some folks also buy a farm share or a part/ whole cow and freeze. It’s a heavy investment up front, but usually well worth it in the long run.

• If you need certain foods to be nut- or gluten-free, especially snacks, sometimes the most cost-effective way to buy them is on Amazon.

• Don’t bring the money pit! In my family, that is my husband. He always wants to buy this and that, and then it sits around and often doesn’t get eaten. Sometimes it’s the children who beg for things not on the list. Just say no, or leave them at home!

Since watching my grocery budget, I’ve found that I enjoy grocery shopping much more. Instead of a trip to the grocery store, it’s become the grocery game. Can I make it this week with only X dollars left? How many meals can I make out of what I still have at home? By following many of the tips above, I’ve found I can stretch it every time and keep my family on budget.

ROANOKECOUNTYVA.GOV/FOSTER Growing Up

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31

Education Education

Innovation Innovation

Exploration Exploration

Now NowEnrolling Enrolling Progressive Progressiveeducation educationfor forchildren childrenages ages 3 3through throughmiddle middleschool schoolsince since1971.

1971. www.communityschool.net www.communityschool.net admissions@communityschool.net admissions@communityschool.net 540-563-5036 540-563-5036

GAMES & MORE Summer Vacation Relax Swimming Camp Lemonade

SU M M ERG H I JKLMDOPQR STUVAHYZ E ABCDNOGHL J K LM OTPQA STUVMDYZ X AB C D E O G H I J K LM LG PQ R STUVWXYZ S N B C D E F G H I OKLMNOPQR ITUVWXYZ S T B C D E F G H I AS W I M M I N G CTUVWXYZ S AB C D E F G H I VKPMNOPQR STUMWXYZ S AB C DAF G H I J K LM N C PQ R STUVWXYZ S

Dot-to-Dot Game Take turns drawing a vertical or horizontal line between two adjoining dots. When you complete a square, put your intial inside and take another turn. Whoever owns the most boxes at the end of the game wins.

Q: What do you call a snowman in July?

A: a Puddle!

Word Search

Growing Up

June 2018

33

3 Ways To Approach Wellness As A Family Article provided by Tuck Chiropractic

J

ust like everything else in life, the stages of a family ebb and flow. From the first moment, you realize you’ll have a little newborn in 9 months to the moment you drop your kids off at their first high school team tryout.

There are times when getting up and getting active won’t be ideal. Those late night feedings or nightmares don’t exactly encourage you to get up early to make a healthy breakfast. The days when you feel like you’re always on the go, running from one errand to the next, make you feel like it’s impossible to slow down and spend time with your family.

While your kids might seem to have boundless energy and exercise, are they learning the right habits to channel it? Will their vibrancy and strength continue as they grow? It’s important to instill a healthy lifestyle into your children as early as possible.

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June 2018

By feeding off their energy, you might even get a pep back in your step too! Here are a few ways to approach wellness as a family.

Make Mealtime a Priority Healthy eating habits are the first step to living a healthy lifestyle. Beginning and ending your day with the right nutrition will support your mood, long-term health, and ability to expel energy in ways that contribute to your overall wellbeing. A study completed in 2011 concluded that exposing children to healthy foods and eating habits at a young age will encourage a positive predisposition towards a healthier diet and lifestyle as they grow up.

Invite your children into the kitchen with you and allow them to have input in their food options. Start with a healthy base of

choices and work from there. Not only will it teach them the skills they’ll need later to compile their own diet, but it will help you in your efforts towards a healthier lifestyle, too.

After all, you want to be a healthy, active grandparent when your little ones grow up to have kids of their own, don’t you?

A few simple rules to live by at mealtime: Try to cook meals from scratch to avoid preservatives and unknown additives.

Eat more fruits and vegetables!

Find healthy snack foods that everyone can enjoy.

Fewer Screens, More Scenes In 2009, Nielsen Co. reported that children between the ages of 2 and 8 spend an average of 28-32 hours watching TV or videos through a phone, computer, or tablet. The Kaiser Family Foundation found that children between the ages of 8 and 18 spend a minimum of 4 1/2 hours a day watching various screens.

Now, there’s nothing wrong with spending a little time in front of the TV to catch your favorite show. However, it does contribute to a sedentary lifestyle. If too much time is spent sitting and watching a screen, that means you’re spending too little time being active.

Living in Southwest Virginia means having a natural landscape to

keep your senses far more stimulated than a screen ever could!

Spending time together being active provides an opportunity for family bonding as well as getting your heart rate up! Find an activity everyone in your family can enjoy. Even if it’s as simple as taking your golden retriever, Ralph, for a walk every evening, it’s away to come together and get moving. If you’re looking for something a little more exciting, there are endless options in Southwest Virginia.

From hiking trails on the Appalachian Trail or Carvins Cove to biking on the Greenway. If outdoors aren’t your thing, there are plenty of great facilities around the region that will help you have fun and get active!

Set And Reach For More Goals Maybe you want to drop a few pounds and run in a local 5k this spring. Maybe Bobby

wants to make the JV Baseball team next year.

Whatever your goals are, try to approach them as a family. After all, your family should be your number one support system.

When you sit down together to set goals as a family, you can discover new ways to support one another. Whether that means more time tossing the baseball around the yard, or taking Ralph just a little bit further on your next run, every effort you make will put you one step closer to reaching your goals.

When you do reach your goals, you have a group of people to celebrate with, too!

It’s important to remember that wellness and a healthy lifestyle look different for every family. Everyone has unique schedules and circumstances. Don’t try to keep up with the Joneses. Try to find what works for you and your family and embrace it!

See more at Tuckclinic.com

Dance the night away with the little on you love at Growing Up in the Valley’s Royal Ball.

Go. Play. See Event Calendar for Roanoke Area

Ongoing Events A Year With Frog and Toad millmountain.org/ production/year-frogtoad/

June 2-30 at various locations throughout Roanoke. This charming musical, the first children’s show to reach Broadway, is about a year in the life of two amphibian friends and a host of other woodland characters.

Songs about flying, swimming, and sledding will take young audiences into a fantasy forest of new friends and adventures. MMT

will perform this show around the region at schools, libraries, parks, and neighborhood venues to delight families.

Admission is free, and MMT will distribute free books to student audience members as part of their initiative to connect theatre to literacy.

Movies in the Market downtownroanoke.org

June 8, July 13, and August 10 at 6 p.m. at the City Market Square in Roanoke. Enjoy FREE, family-friendly entertainment in Market Square!

Bring a blanket or lawn chair and some

snacks, or stop by one of our great downtown restaurants for something to eat.

A concessionaire will also be on site. The movie begins at dusk, when the sun has gone down enough to see the screen. Jumanji (rated PG-13) will be showing on June 8. Free activities, too! Creatures from Mill Mountain Zoo, Rock wall climbing, a balloon artist, and an activity with the Roanoke City Police Department will be there.

Spring Awakening millmountain.org

June 21-24, 27-30 at Mill Mountain Theatre in Center in the Square. A rock musical about teenagers caught between the tumult of adolescence and the frustrating lack of experience with sex, pregnancy, abortion, suicide, guilt, innocence, and death, all with wailing guitars, driving percussion and tortured young voices.

The musical, based on a 19th-century German play, won eight Tony Awards in 2006. Performed by the 2018 MMT Apprentice Company.

Rated R for pervasive

language, sexuality, violence, and mature themes. Admission ranges from $15-$20.

The Salem Fair salemfair.com

July 3-15 The Salem Fair is the largest fair in the state, and has been recognized as one of the top 100 fairs and expositions in the country. With tons of rides, plenty of good fair food and vendors, and entertainment galore, there is something for everyone at the Salem Fair! Free admission; rides and entertainment passes vary in price.

See our full calendar on growingupinthevalley.com

Star City Motor Madness starcitymotormadness.com

Salem Red Sox Home Games

Tickets range from $8-$15 per game, with senior and children discounts available as well as season passes. Learn more and buy tickets at salemsox.com.

Jurassic at the Park Friday June 1 7:05 PM VS Wilmington Bark in the Park Saturday June 2 6:05 PM VS Wilmington Sunday June 3 4:05 PM VS Wilmington Monday June 11 7:05 PM VS Potomac Tuesday June 12 7:05 PM VS Potomac Wednesday June 13 7:05 PM VS Potomac Thursday June 21 7:05 PM VS Frederick 80s Night Friday June 22 7:05 PM VS Frederick 90s Are All That Saturday June 23 6:05 PM VS Frederick

Sunday June 24 4:05 PM VS Frederick Tuesday June 26 7:05 PM VS Carolina Wednesday June 27 7:05 PM VS Carolina Thursday June 28 7:05 PM VS Carolina Cancer Awareness Friday June 29 7:05 PM VS Carolina Monday, July 9 7:05 PM VS WinstonSalem Tuesday, July 10 7:05 PM VS WinstonSalem Wednesday July 11 7:05 PM VS WinstonSalem Thursday July 12 7:05 PM VS WinstonSalem

June 22-23 in downtown Roanoke.

Star City Motor Madness, celebrating its 17th year, is one of Virginia’s largest automotive events.

It is a fundraiser primarily benefiting the Virginia Museum of Transportation, located in downtown Roanoke. There is an open cruise-in Friday night from 6pm to 10pm on Williamson Road for any car that evokes a feeling of nostalgia or is of special interest. The car show on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. draws hundreds of classic, modified, and special interest vehicles. Both events are heavily attended and free to spectators.

Sidewalk Art Show taubmanmuseum.org

June 2-3 Celebrating 60 years of fine art, the Sidewalk Art Show returns to the Museum! The show infuses downtown Roanoke with energy, excitement, and creativity. This annual event, which has become one of Southwest Virginia’s most anticipated, is a premier destination for fine art shopping, and offers visitors the opportunity to meet and talk with exhibiting artists. All of the works exhibited are for sale, including original paintings, prints, watercolors, etchings, mixed media, fine art photographs, fine crafts, and sculpture.

Admission is free.

Party in Elmwood

downtownroanoke.org

Every Thursday, 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., May through September, enjoy a fun party at Elmwood Park in Roanoke. Join us for all of your favorite bands and jams! Enjoy music, friends, food, and drinks in the region’s most vibrant and exciting destination: Downtown Roanoke.

Bring your lawn chair and relax in Elmwood Park. No coolers, please. Admission is $5 per person at the gate.

Kids under 12 are free!

Friday Food Truck and Tunes sweetdonkeycoffee.com

Held weekly on Fridays throughout summer and early fall, weather permitting. Stop by Sweet Donkey Coffee and enjoy the outdoor bar, music, and delicious local food truck fare!

Uncle Billy’s Day Festival unclebillysdayfestival.com

June 1 & 2 at English Park in Altavista. Join us in celebrating the 69th annual Uncle Billy’s Day Festival.

This two-day festival offers something for everyone and is located in Altavista’s English Park along the banks of the beautiful Staunton River. Shop the arts & crafts exhibits, eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the variety of food vendors, and seek a rare find at the flea market and antiques area. Get up and dance to the free live music performances on Friday

and Saturday. Bring the kids and listen to them giggle as they enjoy the children’s rides and activities. Check out the local talent at the art and photography show, and see more than 100 antique cars from the area. After a great day of activities, take a rest and enjoy a spectacular fireworks display at dusk on Saturday. Free event to attend.

Smith Mountain Lake Pirate Days visitsmithmountainlake.com

July 20-22 at Bridgewater Plaza in the Smith Mountain Lake area. Yo-ho-ho, me hearties! Join us for a Pirate Ball on Friday night at Mango’s! Gear up with your fanciest pirate duds and enjoy some delicious grog, ales, and lagers!

Swab the deck with live music from local Lynchburg band Funky Bone. The Mystical Pirates of Kazim will be instructing us on how to party like a pirate! Saturday gets even bigger, with live pirates, pirate ships, and battles, as well as children’s entertainment all day at Bridgewater Plaza and surrounding areas.

Friday • June 8 Ben Folds and a Piano artscenter.vt.edu/ performances/ben-folds. htm

8:30 p.m. at the Moss Arts Center at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg. In this solo concert program, Ben Folds delivers high-energy rock using

the intimacy of just a piano. Presented in celebration of Virginia Tech’s Alumni Reunion Weekend. Tickets start at $40 for adults and $10 for students and children.

Friday • June 15

Saturday • June 9

7:30 p.m. at the Moss Arts Center at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg.

Admission is $25 for adults, $10 for students and children.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream jeffcenter.org

7 p.m. at the Jefferson Center in Roanoke. The Roanoke Ballet Theatre performs Shakespeare’s classic A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Admission ranges from $27-$45.

Light Up the Night 5K squaresociety.org

9 p.m. in downtown Roanoke. Come out and Light Up the Night for a great cause at the 7th annual fundraiser supporting Square Society’s mission to raise money and awareness for Center in the Square. After the race, join us for the post-race celebration on the Market. This is a fun event for all!

Registration is $25-$30 per racer.

Wednesday • June 13 Special Olympics Hot Dog Sale (540) 853-1761

11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the corner of 3rd and Campbell in downtown Roanoke. Come enjoy a delicious summer treat and help raise money for the Special Olympics!

The Crooked Road’s Mountain of Music Homecoming: An Evening with Sierra Hull sierrahull.com

Meet Ranger Parker Redfox

visitsmithmountainlake. com

10 a.m. at Smith Mountain Lake Park Visitor Center. Be a part of the celebration!

Head on over to the park to meet Ranger Parker Redfox, the Virginia State Parks mascot. Parker is our newest ambassador with a mission to help reconnect children with the outdoors.

He will help children understand the connections between the importance of forest habitats, recreational fun in parks, and diversity of species in the outdoors.

Stop by, meet Parker, and take a picture with him. Admission is free.

Saturday • June 16 The Black Jacket Symphony theberglundcenter.com

8 p.m. at the Berglund Performing Arts Theatre in Roanoke. The Black Jacket Symphony offers a unique concert experience through recreating classic albums in a live performance setting.

A selected album

is performed in its entirety by a group of handpicked musicians specifically selected for each album, with no sonic detail being overlooked--the musicians do whatever it takes to musically reproduce the album.

The quality tone of the show is set quickly, as it features a high level of musicianship and accompaniment.

Royal Ball growingupinthevalley.com

6 p.m. at the Taubman Museum of Art in Roanoke. Bigger and better, and ON SATURDAY! Located in the atrium of the Taubman. New this year—VIP tickets, which include a special picture frame and 30 minute early admission for a princess meet and greet. VIP tickets are $70, and are limited to 50 total attendees.

There will be music, dancing, contests, and of course, princesses!

Light snacks will be served. General tickets are $47 per couple, and $15 for each additional daughter.

Space Festival vmnh.net

9 a.m. at the Virginia Museum of Natural History in Martinsville.

Join us for the firstever Space Festival at the Virginia Museum of Natural History!

The out-of-this-world festival will include displays on loan from NASA, with hands-on activities by partnering organizations.

Summer Vacation Bucket List

Catch fireflies. Have a picnic. Climb a mountain.

Go bowling. Make a lemonade stand. Visit Mill Mountain Star. Wade in the river. Build a sandcastle.

Go fishing. Play a board game. Take a bike ride on the Greenway. Watch the fireworks. Climb a tree.

Make ice cream. Visit the Mill Mountain Zoo. Go to a drive in movie.

Go rollerskating. Build a campfire. Have a BBQ. Watch movies. Read at the library. Jump in puddles.

Fly a kite. Pick flowers.

Watch the trains come in.

See a show at the Berglund Center. Climb McAffe’s Knob. Go swimming. Learn to juggle. Have a puppet show. Slide at Splash Valley.

Watch Shakespeare in the park. Learn to paint. Make popsicles. Sing along with the car radio. Take a road trip. Visit family. Braid a friendship bracelet.

Explore a state park.

Mother & Son Adventure Moms and sons will team up to search for and collect different types of dinosaurs through the streets of Roanoke!

July 13

6 PM - 9 PM

City Market Building Downtown Roanoke

Parent/Child Ticket $49.56 Additional Participant $17.89

Find clues, work together to solve problems and collect as many dinosaurs as possible in an effort to win prizes!

f o r m o r e d e t a i l s c h e c k o u t g r o w i n g u p i n t h e v a l l e y. c o m

Join Growing Up in the Valley at

Royal Ball The

6 PM, Saturday, June 16, 2018 at The Taubman Museum $47 per couple, $15 for additional child

5th Annual Big Lick Burger Fest & Summer Jam

biglickentertainment. com

1 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Elmwood Park in Roanoke. The Fifth Annual Big Lick Burger Fest & Summer Jam presented by Budweiser returns to Elmwood Park with our BIGGEST lineup of music yet! Admission ranges from $26 - $36.

Summer Solstice Fest 2018 fb.com/ downtownblacksburg 1 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. in downtown Blacksburg. The Summer Solstice Fest features live music, a beer and wine garden, the Solstice Market, Downtown Sundown 5k® Race, a

sand beach, costume contest, petting zoo, and so much more. Enjoy crafts, activities, and festival foods! Admission is free.

Friday • June 22 Jamey Johnson in Concert salemciviccenter.com

8 p.m. at the Salem Civic Center. Jamey Johnson is one of only a few people in the history of country music to win two Song of the Year Awards from both the CMA and ACMs. For the last decade, Johnson has earned critical and commercial success for his traditional country sound. His 2008 album, That Lonesome Song, was certified platinum for

$1 million in sales, and his 2010 double album, The Guitar Song, received a gold certification. Since Johnson doesn’t create a set list, no two shows are the same, so the once-ina-lifetime concerts are unforgettable.

“I don’t know what I’m going to do until I am standing there doing it,” he says.

“That is a freedom I have enjoyed ever since I began doing this—the ability to try something new.”

Admission is $49.

Tuesday • June 26 Roanoke Valley SPCA Mobile Clinic rvspca.org

7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Big Lick Brewery in Roanoke.

POWERING SUMMER FUN Join the Y this summer and take advantage of our many membership benefits.

• Free Stay & Play child watch programming • Free group exercise, water exercise and indoor cycling • Recently updated cardio equipment • 4 indoor pools and 2 indoor tracks www.ymcavbr.org • Interactive play spaces

The Roanoke Valley SPCA Mobile Clinic will be offering affordable, highquality spay and neuter surgeries, vaccinations, and other services. Please call (540) 339-9512 or email mobileclinic@ rvspca.org to make your appointment.

Lavender Festival beliveauestate.com

The Great Roanoke Duck Race is on June 30 at 10 a.m.

12 a.m. at Beliveau Winery in Blacksburg.

Enjoy an afternoon of relaxation as you sip wine and listen to the music of harpist Julia Fallon and the Highland Jazz Trio.

Lavender plants and products will be for sale, as well as lavender-inspired foods. There will be lectures on lavender throughout the day.

Admission is free.

Thursday • June 28 Saturday • June 30 Total Action For Progress Presents Roanoke’s Voice jeffcenter.org

5:30 p.m. at the Jefferson Center in Roanoke. Get ready for a night of fun as local celebrities reveal their special talents! All proceeds benefit families and victims of domestic violence and intimate partner abuse. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for a cocktail hour, and performances start at 7 p.m.. Admission ranges from $30-$80.

Roanoke River Fest: Recycled Regatta & The Great Roanoke Duck Race cleanvalley.org

10 a.m. at Smith Park in Roanoke. Roanoke River Fest will be a day filled with music, river racing, food trucks, workshops, and fun—all to celebrate the Roanoke River! The event will be our signature fundraiser for the Clean Valley Council, to support stormwater education, litter prevention, and recycling.

LIVE MUSIC

EVERY THURSDAY May 10 - September 27 5:30pm - 8:30pm

The Best Beach Party in the Valley!

Join Us for Tap the Keg Craft Beer Party Nights: May 17, June 21, July 12, August 9, August 23 $5 admission at the gate, kids under 12 are free

Visit DowntownRoanoke.org for details! ®

Wednesday • July 4 Vinton Fourth of July Celebration vintonva.gov

6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Vinton War Memorial Grounds.

Entertainment by Fuzzy Logic Band, children’s activities, a patriotic program, and festival foods.

Fireworks start at 9:30 p.m. Free admission.

4th of July Fireworks Celebration at Parkway Marina smlfireworks.org

3 p.m. at Parkway Marina by Smith Mountain Lake Park.

Children’s activities, live music, beer garden, and more!

No pets, coolers, or picnic baskets allowed. Lawn chairs and blankets are recommended. $10 fee per car.

Hometown Bank’s Four on the Fourth

Virginia. The Kids Fun Run will start at 9 a.m., and the course runs approximately a half mile. Racer registration is $35; Kids Fun Run is free.

Friday • July 6 Paint Your Pet

fouronthe4th.com

taubmanmuseum.org

8 a.m. at the Wells Fargo Plaza in downtown Roanoke.

The HomeTown Bank’s Four on the 4th presented by Fleet Feet Sports Roanoke is a 4-mile run and walk that benefits the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest

5:30 p.m. at the Taubman Museum in Roanoke. It’s an evening to honor a beloved pet with fun—user-friendly acrylic paint and our amazing instructors to help you create the perfect homage to any animal friend.

Send in a clear photo of your pet’s face, and your instructor will prep your canvas with your pet’s image.

Your instructor will provide stroke by stroke instructions, paint, a 16” x 20” canvas, brushes, and an easel. This class is geared towards adults. Registration is $50 for non-members, $45 for members.

Saturday • July 7 West End Block Party tucostaqueria.com

Tuco’s Taqueria Garaje, Beamer’s 25, and Big Lick Brewery are joining forces to bring you a day of food, fun, and drinks! Enjoy live entertainment from the area’s best bands and DJs, street vendors, face painting, and other activities for the entire family! Angels of Assisi will have an adopt-a-tent there, and a portion of the day’s proceeds will go to their cause.

Admission is free!

11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Salem Avenue between 4th and 5th Streets in Roanoke.

See our full calendar on growingupinthevalley.com

SUMMER CAMPS

To register, go to 44

Growing Up

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2018

roanokechildrenstheatre.org

Any Age

Any Breed

Any Size

Christiansburg 300-B Roanoke St. Christiansburg, VA 24073 Vinton 2445 East Washington Ave. Vinton, VA 24179

nrvandroanokedogtrainer.com • 540-750-1955

Free (or Cheap) Summer Movies!

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June 2018

Regal Theater

Every Tuesday and Wednesday at 10 a.m. in June and July • $1 per person • Roanoke and Christiansburg locations • Both movies play on both days.

June 5-6 The Iron Giant & Curious George June 12-13 Despicable Me & Ice Age: Collision Course June 19-20 Storks & Mr. Peabody and Sherman June 26-27 Despicable Me 2 and How to Train Your Dragon 2 July 3-4 The Lego Movie & Alvin and the Chipmunks July 10-11 Sing and The Peanuts Movie July 17-18 The Lego Ninjago Movie & Ferdinand

July 24-25 The Secret Life of Pets & Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel

August 1 Nut Job 2

July 31-August 1 The Lego Batman Movie & Trolls

Virginia Western

AMC Theater

Every Wednesday at 10 a.m., June through August. • $4 per person, includes snacks • Roanoke and Salem locations.

June 13 Paddington 2 June 20 The Lego Batman Movie June 27 Ferdinand July 11 Trolls July 18 Despicable Me July 26 Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie

August 8 Boss Baby

August 10 Star Wars: The Last Jedi

Monday Movies at the Main Library

Whitman Theater at VWCC • 2 p.m. & 6 p.m. on show date • Free

Every Monday at 3 p.m.

• June 18 to July 23 • Teen Room at the Roanoke Main Library.

May 18 A Wrinkle in Time

June 18 Alice in Wonderland

June 1 Isle of Dogs

June 25 Coco

June 15 Ready Player One

July 2 Chronicles of Narnia

July 13 Rampage

July 9 Jumanji

August 10 Avengers: Infinity War

July 16 Wizard of Oz

Movies in the Market

July 23 Wonder

Activities start at 6 p.m. on show date • Free • City Market Square in downtown Roanoke.

Movies At Longwood

Free family-friendly movies at Longwood Park in Salem • Movies start around 8:15 p.m. • First 50 families receive free popcorn!

May 11 The Jungle Book June 15 Moana July 13 Wonder August 17 Coco

June 8 Jumanji July 13 Coco

Something FUN For Everyone!

Roller Skating Arcade Games Kids’ Play Zone Snack Bar Free Wifi KidsSkateFree.com Participating Center

540-890-2250 |1620 E. Washington Ave Vinton, VA 24179 | FirehouseSkate.com Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter

Summer plans for the Family 2. Shovel out the grass.

Using a large shovel, dig out the grass inside the circle.

For safety purposes, the hole for a fire pit should be about 6 to 12 inches deep. Be sure to call 811 before you start digging to ensure there are no utility lines buried under the spot you’ve chosen.

GET READY

Before you start building your backyard fire pit, you’ll need to gather some supplies: bricks for the fire pit wall, gravel, twine or string, a tape measure, a stake, a large shovel and a trowel, a tamp, and a level.

When purchasing bricks for the fire pit wall, go for something sturdy like retaining wall bricks or concrete pavers. Some home improvement stores even carry bricks specifically designed for fire pits. Use a layer of firebricks, which have a higher heat resistance, on the inner layer of the fire pit as an extra safety measure.

Also, before you begin building, be sure to consult your local fire code to find out whether fire pits are allowed in your city, and, if so, how far away the fire pit has to be from a structure.

Now that you have all your supplies and you’ve checked your local fire code, you’re ready to build!

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1. Create a circle.

Pick out a spot in your yard for your fire pit (ensuring that it is located a safe distance from any structures, bushes, or trees), and insert a stake in the ground where the center of the pit will be. Tie one end of the string or twine to the stake and measure how wide you want your circle to be. Cut the string, and tie the other end to the handle of a trowel. With the string or twine taut, drag the sharp end of the trowel around in a circle, creating a line in the grass.

3. Tamp down the dirt.

If you don’t have a tamp, you can just use the bottom of your shovel.

Build Your Own Fire Pit

4. Make sure the circle is level.

Get down on the ground with your level to ensure that the surface is ready for the bricks to be laid. Keep making small adjustments until it’s completely level.

6. Arrange the bricks.

After you’ve spread the gravel around, arrange your bricks in a circle and stack them in layers until the fire pit wall is at least 12 inches tall.

For extra safety, you have the option to put an inner layer of firebricks.

Though you don’t need to use mortar if the bricks are heavy enough to make a sturdy stack, you can use an outdoor, fire-resistant mortar between the bricks for extra stability.

5. Add gravel.

Put a pretty thick layer of gravel in the fire pit (at least a couple of inches).

Spread the gravel around evenly.

7. Relax and enjoy!

Gather a couple of Adirondack chairs, some firewood, a few friends, and campfire treats to get full use out of your new fire pit.

Fire Pit Safety

It is extremely important to keep your fire pit clean both to maintain its appearance and to prevent potential fires from forming outside the fire pit. To clean the fire pit, use a broom to sweep the inside of the fire pit area. An angled broom will work best for this purpose but a standard broom can be used as well.

Sweep in one direction to prevent the ash from being moved around without getting picked up.

Remove any ash or dust and wood remnants which have formed as a result of fires in the fire pit. Clear the area around the fire pit. Remove debris such as leaves, sticks, grass and any other potentially flammable items for a perimeter of at least 10 feet.

This will ensure that a floating ember doesn’t start a fire. When removing the ashes you can dispose of them in the garbage or you can place them in grassy areas which do not seem to be growing. Ashes will work as an extremely effective fertilizer.

All Points REALTORS

Growing Up

June 2018

49

Kids Eat Free • Mama Maria’s 11 AM - 2 PM • 3 & under free buffet with paid adult W. Main St., Salem (540) 389-2848

Monday

• Country Cookin’ 4 PM - Close • 10 & under, 2 children per paid adult All Locations in Roanoke (540) 774-0199

• The Green Goat All Day • 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult 802 Wiley Dr. SW, Roanoke (540) 904-6091

• Golden Corral All Day • 3 & under free buffet with paid adult 1441 Towne Square Blvd., Roanoke (540) 563-8826

• Famous Anthony’s 3 PM - Close • 1 child per paid adult All Locations in Roanoke, Salem, & Vinton (540) 362-1400

• Brambleton Deli 11 AM - 9 PM • 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult 3655 Brambleton Ave., Roanoke (540) 774-4554

IHop 4PM-10PM • 12 & Under All Locations

• Buffalo Wild Wings 4 PM - 9 PM • 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult All Locations (540) 725-9464

• Denny’s 4 PM - 10 PM • 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult All Locations Roanoke & Salem (540) 389-5074

Every Day

• Shoney’s All Day • 4 & under, free kids meal with adult entree purchase. Drink not included 2673 Lee Highway, Troutville (540) 992-6400

• El Rio Mexican Grill All Day • 10 & under, 1 child per paid adult 4208 Electric Rd., Roanoke (540) 685-4343 • Firehouse Subs All Day • 11 & under, 2 children per paid adult combo,dine in Blacksburg (540) 961-0371

Tuesday

• Macado’s 4 PM - 9 PM • 12 & under, $1 child meal per paid adult All Locations in Roanoke & Salem (540) 776-9884

• Town Center Tap House All Day • 12 & under, 2 children per paid adult 90 Town Center St., Daleville (540) 591-9991 • Firehouse Subs All Day • 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult Colonial Ave, Town Square & Salem only (540) 345-3131 • Pizza Hut 5 PM - Close • 10 & under, free buffet per paid adult 1016 Hershberger Rd., Roanoke (540) 362-3834 • Ruby Tuesday 5 PM - Close • 11 & under, 1 child per paid adult Electric Rd., Roanoke (540) 265-9301 • K&W All Day • 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult Hershberger Rd. Roanoke (540) 563-4977

Wednesday

• Dogwood 4 PM - Close • 10 & under, per paid adult 106 E. Lee Ave., Vinton (540) 343-6549 • Pizza Pasta Pit 4 PM - 9 PM • 1 child per paid adult. Drink not included.

1713 Riverview Dr., Salem (540) 387-2885 • The Quarter All Day • 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult 19 Salem Ave., Roanoke (540) 342-2990

Thursday

• CiCi’s Pizza All Day • 10 & under .99 cents child buffet per adult buffet Roanoke (540) 344-7711

• The Roanoker 4:30 PM - Close • 12 & under, 2 children per paid adult 2522 Colonial Ave., Roanoke (540) 344-7746

• Jerry’s Family Restaurant 4 PM - Close • 6 & under, 1 child per adult meal purchase 1340 E. Washington Ave., Vinton (540) 343-4400

Friday See Everyday Deals!

Saturday

• Steak n’ Shake All Day • 12 & under 1 free per paid $10.00 adult 1309 Hershberger Rd., Roanoke (540) 400-8825 • Tokyo Express 11 AM - 3 PM • 4 & under free buffet per paid adult 1940 W Main St., Salem (540) 389-6303 • F.P.S All day • 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult 611 S. Jefferson St., Roanoke (540) 400-6879 • Famous Anthony’s 12 PM - Close • 1 child per adult meal All Locations Roanoke, Salem, Vinton (540) 362-1400

• T.G.I.Fridays All Day • 12 & under 1 with paying adult 4869 Valley View Blvd., Roanoke (540) 362-1475 • Jimmy V’s Restaurant All Day • 4 & under kids meal only $2.50 3403 Brandon Ave., Roanoke (540) 345-7311 • Steak n’ Shake All Day • 12 & under 1 free with paying $10.00 adult 1309 Hershberger Rd., Roanoke (540) 400-8825 • Moe’s Southwestern Grill All Day • 1 free per paid adult All Roanoke & Blacksburg locations • Firehouse Subs All Day • 12 and Under 1 free per paid adult Keagy Road, Roanoke 540-204-4471 • O’Charley’s All Day • 10 and Under 1 free per paid adult Valley View, Roanoke 540-563-9870 • Rodeo Grande All Day • 12 and Under 1 free per paid adult Valley View, Roanoke 540-206-2296 • Lew’s Restaurant SW All Day • 12 and Under 2 free per paid adult Walnut Avenue, Roanoke 540-682-5925

Sunday

• Pizza Den 5 PM - 8:30 PM • 10 & under free buffet per paid adult buffet and drink purchase Salem (540) 389-1111 • Local Roots 5 PM -7 PM • 5 & under eat for free, discount for ages 5-7 per paid adult 1314 Grandin Rd., Roanoke (540) 206-2610

These listings are for informational purposes only and do not guarantee a discount. As restaurants change promotions often, we recommend calling ahead.

children struggling with ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder, and Autism: TRY CHIROPRACTIC! Parents of children under chiropractic care report: Better focus Improved sleep Better Mood Decreased sensory overload Less anxiety Improved communication Decreased hyperactivity And More!

Chernichky Family Chiropractic www.cfchirova.com | 540.591.3535

Don't forget to bring this VIP pass to your appointment!

• McAlister’s Deli 5 PM - Close • 2 children per paid adult 2063 Colonial Ave., Roanoke (540) 204-4407

Growing Up

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Now the Bradleys want to add to the abundance of family-oriented events by pursuing their dream: creating a classical theater company.

“This is the right place … the rightsized place,” said Liz. The Bradleys’ Facebook page states their mission simply. They have started Two Muses Productions “to bring highquality, free Shakespeare in the Park experiences to SWVA.” The two muses in the name refer to tragedy and comedy.

Their first production will be one of Shakespeare’s most popular comedies, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, on July 20th and 21st at Sherwood’s outdoor amphitheater.

FREE AMUSEMENT

Don’t worry about your kids’ drama at these outdoor Shakespeare shows! article by Stephanie Ogilvie

B

elieve it or not, we can thank Pokémon GO for a free Shakespeare show in the park.

last summer after Nathan had spent three years teaching in a rural Alaskan village.

Nathan Bradley, who had just moved to the Roanoke Valley, was playing the game on his phone when he followed the virtual creatures to an outdoor amphitheater in the most unexpected place: a cemetery.

They were ready to move somewhere warmer and less isolated, and so Nathan accepted a job as a middle school language arts teacher at Noel Taylor Academy in Roanoke.

Longtime Roanokers will know this as the sprawling Sherwood Memorial Park, located right across from the water tower and the YMCA in Salem.

Nathan knew this concrete amphitheater facing the Roman arches of a mausoleum—like something straight out of “Clash of the Titans”— would be the perfect place, in the perfect town, to start his and his wife’s dream project.

Nathan, 30, his wife, Liz, 29, and their two-year-old son, Emmett, moved here

52

Growing Up

June 2018

With Nathan’s teaching credentials, “we could live anywhere,” said Liz, and they chose Roanoke because of a family connection, the region’s natural beauty, and especially because there is always something to do here.

“There’s a festival every weekend,” she said.

We chatted about their plans one sunny April afternoon in Salem’s Longwood Park, while Liz directed a small group of adults in rehearsal.

They recruited some actors from Three Spirits Theatre in Fincastle, where Nathan had joined the cast of As You Like It at Virginia Mountain Vineyards in April.

The rehearsal setting in Longwood Park provided exactly what the Bradleys hope their July shows will: A laid-back outdoor experience where families can bring their children to experience the magic of theater.

While little Emmett and my four-yearold daughter entertained themselves, Nathan talked about the show and how he met his wife.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream is actually the perfect play to debut their theater company, because the Bradleys performed in the same Shakespeare production as students at Marywood University in Scranton, Pennsylvania. She played Helena, he played Lysander. For their Roanoke show, Nathan will play the donkey-headed Bottom, and Liz will direct. They are still deciding whether two-year-old Emmett (a family name

that was partly inspired by a character in the Twilight vampire saga) will make his debut as the changeling boy.

The plot is rather complicated, but it basically involves a royal wedding, feuding fairies, a tangled human love story, and a magic potion. Comic hijinks ensue.

As Nathan explains the story, the familiar names of the fairies—Titania, Oberon, Puck—reminded me of my own introduction to live Shakespeare: a middle school field trip to see A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Mill Mountain Theatre in 1991.

IF YOU GO

A Midsummer Night’s Dream When: 6:00 p.m. July 20 and 21 Where: Sherwood Memorial Park, 1250 E. Main Street, Salem Cost: Free Barring thunderstorms, the plays will happen rain or shine.

Portable bathrooms and handicap parking will be available.

More information: Visit their Facebook page (www.facebook. com/2musesproductions) or email them at 2musesproductions@gmail.com.

summer camps

I don’t remember much from my middle school classrooms, but that field trip made an impression.

In fact, a 2014 study by researchers at the University of Arkansas focused specifically on school field trips to live theater events (versus just reading the plays and watching movies) and found that the trips improved vocabulary, tolerance, and empathy among students in grades seven to twelve.

I don’t really need an academic study to convince me to take my daughter to live theater, but I do wonder how long Shakespeare will hold a preschooler’s attention.

And that’s the real beauty of their shows, said Liz, who earned her bachelor’s degree in theater. By offering the plays with free admission— in an outdoor setting—parents have nothing to lose. Bring a picnic, relax, hang out. If there’s a meltdown, you can walk away and come back, she said. It’s an opportunity to teach your children theater etiquette in a casual environment, before you shell out big bucks for professional shows—or before you make the trek to Shakespeare’s recreated Blackfriars Playhouse just up the road in Staunton.

Plus, there’s plenty of slapstick comedy to keep the kids (and kids at heart) entertained.

Just be sure to turn off the Pokémon GO while you enjoy the show.

Sherwood Memorial Park Amphitheater Here’s a fun fact, David Huddleston, the Vinton-born actor with credits in The Big Lebowski and Blazing Saddles, started his career in Sherwood’s outdoor theater in 1957, appearing in the drama Thy Kingdom Come, according to Susan Mini, Sherwood’s President and CEO. The amphitheater opened in the 110-acre burial park in 1953, and it’s hosted a variety of events over the decades, including a Roanoke College Shakespeare festival, weddings, and a few smaller Shakespeare productions.

The Salem Museum Ghost Walk fundraiser, where actors portray prominent Salem residents buried in Sherwood, will return for its second year at the amphitheater in October.

In 2019, Sherwood will celebrate its tenth year of hosting a Community Easter Drama, a free event over Easter weekend, which includes a Sunday sunrise service.

ity

Build Creativ

Make Friends Explore Art

Have Fun! Weekly half-day camps for ages 5-14 TaubmanMuseum.org/Camp 110 Salem Ave SE Downtown Roanoke

Growing Up

June 2018

53

Our mission is to foster

Academic Excellence Passionate Spirituality Outstanding Character in each student

Roanoke Adventist Preparatory School has been offering quality Christian education at family friendly prices in the Roanoke area for over 80 75 years. Our school is a small classroom environment where students receive grade-level appropriate individualized instruction. RAPS is fully accredited and key learning standards are available by grade level.

This is how RAPS demonstrates its mission: Academic Excellence: Based on a national study conducted by Cognitive Genesis, students in Adventist schools consistently perform above the national average compared to other students in the same grade level.

Passionate Spirituality: Our Christian education focuses on preparing our students for eternity. Students have daily prayer and weekly chapel and delve into age-appropriate bible study to develop an understanding of the greatest gift of Christ.

Outstanding Character: RAPS uses the Virtues Project and Leader in Me materials to encourage positive character development.

Students work on several community service projects throughout the school year finding ways to reach out to our community.

Schedule a FREE Educational Success Consultation or a Kindergarten Readiness Evaluation

Call us at 540-798-6061 or go to www.rapschool.org to set an appointment.

54

Growing Up

June 2018

5 tips when buying a car for a teen W

ith graduation season and summer break upon us, many parents may be on the hunt for a new car for their graduate.

Memorial Day deals offer some of the best incentives of the year, so it’s crucial to know how to navigate what can be an overwhelming and exhausting process.

If you are one of the millions of Americans looking to buy a car, here are the five things you need to know before you step foot on a dealer’s lot.

1

Know What You Can Afford.

The first and most important question to answer before launching into the car-buying process is “how much can I afford?” Figuring this out will help you determine whether you

are in the market for a new or used vehicle.

A good starting point is to use 15-18 percent of your take-home pay as a gauge for your total vehicle budget including the loan, insurance, gas and maintenance.

Next decision, how will you pay for it? There are numerous ways to manage the financial burden for purchasing a new car, including taking out a loan. If you have decided to go the loan route, determine how much you can afford in monthly payments. Banks or another financial institution might offer lower interest rates than a car dealer. Aim to pay off the loan within three to five years.

“Get pre-approved for an auto loan amount and interest rate so you know where you stand before you begin shopping,” says Ren Horne, vice president

of Consumer Lending at USAA Bank. “Look for low loan rates and flexible terms to fit your budget needs versus being steered by dealers into a decision solely based on monthly payment, which often results in paying more in interest for the overall loan term.”

Another idea is to sell or trade in your new graduate’s current vehicle. If you plan to do this, factor in the cash value of that car and then add your planned down payment, typically 15-20 percent.

You can use online loan calculator tools to get an estimate of what the end price tag will be.

2

Determine The Total Cost Of Ownership.

It is important to

understand the total cost of ownership before surprising your graduate with the car of their dreams. Everything from gas to auto insurance will be an extra expense added on to the monthly cost for a new or used car and something everyone in the family needs to consider.

at the top. Next, assess how much they will be using this car and what for. Are they commuting to school or a job? Remember to keep an open mind and be flexible - stay open to two or three models that would meet your teen driver’s needs and your or their budget.

When receiving an auto insurance quote, note that collision and comprehensive coverage generally cost less for used cars. If purchasing an older car, consider getting pricing for Extended Vehicle Protection coverage before you go to the dealer.

4

3

Keep An Open Mind.

Once you have established what you can afford and the total cost of ownership, it is time to discover what features and styles you or your teen want in a car. Prioritize a list of the features you would like to see. For the teen in your life, safety is usually

Do Your Research.

Everyone can agree that dealerships can be overwhelming and intimidating.

Research your market first.

5

Go For A Test Drive.

After picking out a few of your top favorites, it is time to see how the car operates on the real road. Hit the highway to properly gauge a car’s performance, and inspect the car for mileage, tread, etc. If possible, run the car by a trusted mechanic for an under-the-hood inspection to forecast longevity and maintenance needs.

Remember, factory warranties usually transfer depending on the mileage.

If you are looking into the used car market, always run a background check. You can get a vehicle history report from Carfax, which can help verify ownership history, mileage and accident history. Also, make sure the used vehicle has never been salvaged by entering the vehicle identification number into the National Insurance Crime Bureau’s system.

From survival to competitive swimming, we make the water fun and safe!

2007 Oak Grove Plaza, Roanoke

(540) 989-0520

Enroll NOW to be splash ready for Summer!

“We enrolled because of our desire for our child to be taught according to an uncompromised Christian worldview.

We know that the world wants our child’s heart and mind. RVCS is on the same page with us in fighting for our child’s heart to belong to Christ.”

RVCS Offers: Renovated School Buildings Smaller Class Sizes Dual Enrollment Opportunities International Exchange Student Program Christian-based Education

(540) 366-2432 ext. 127 | rvcs@sbcfamily.org | 6520 Williamson Road, Roanoke, VA 24019 Growing Up

June 2018

55

Growing Up in the Valley’s Guide To Daycare, Preschools & Private Education ROANOKE CATHOLIC SCHOOL

NORTH CROSS

621 N. Jefferson St. Roanoke 540-982-3532 • Ages: 3-18 www.roanokecatholic.com Preschool, K-12, After School

4524 Colonial Avenue, Roanoke 540-989-6641 • Ages 3-18 years www.northcross.org Preschool, K-12

We are dedicated to excellence in education and to the spiritual development of youth within the framework of the Gospel and the tradition of the Catholic Church. Our mission is the education of the whole persona, blending learning with faith and faith with daily life.

North Cross School is an independent, nonsectarian, college-preparatory school that serves children from early childhood through twelfth grade. North Cross provides a rigorous academic curriculum, competitive with the best college-preparatory schools in the Commonwealth of Virginia. While we explicitly recognize the importance of intellectual development and academic achievement, we also strive to promote personal integrity, empathy, and responsibility to self and community. Through this, our graduates will act as leaders in the local and global communities, persons of intellectual and moral courage, and scholars in the service of others.

CHILDCARE NETWORK

4225 Brambleton Avenue, Roanoke 540-989-0144 • Ages: 6 Weeks -12 Years www.childcarenetwork.com Preschool, Day Care, After School Come join us at Childcare Network #65!! We pride ourselves on being the working parent’s best friend!

COUNTRY BEAR DAY SCHOOL

5220 Starkey Rd, Roanoke 540-797-1456 • Ages: 6 Weeks -12 Years www.countrybeardayschool.com Preschool, Day Care, After School Country Bear Day School has a 30 year tradition of offering an exceptional program for children ages 6 weeks - 12 years. A child’s happiness and development is our main objective, offered in a secure, nurturing environment with opportunities to grow. Your child’s well being is not only your top priority--it is ours as well. Please visit us soon to see why we lead in creative educational programs, parental service and an environment that is loving, safe and secure.

HONEYTREE EARLY LEARNING CENTERS

2660 Brambleton Ave, Roanoke 628 Townside Rd, Roanoke 1824 Jefferson Street, Roanoke 4330 Franklin Rd, Roanoke 2230 Electric Rd, Roanoke 7507 Plantation Rd, Roanoke 217 Hershberger Rd, Roanoke 1531 Patrick Rd, Roanoke 1980 Electric Rd, Salem 2111 Roanoke Rd, Salem 1918 Washington Avenue, Vinton 7000 Booker T. Washington, Wirtz 229 Central Avenue, Christiansburg (540) 344-4543 Ages 6 weeks-12 years www.HoneyTreeELC.com Preschool, After School

HoneyTree Early Learning Centers is the leading Early Childhood Provider in the Roanoke Valley for children ages 6 weeks - 12 years of age. We are locally-owned and operated and have been serving generations of families since 1979. Expect your child to receive the best, quality educational experience. We hope to have the opportunity to provide you and your family with all the pieces for a happy, healthy childhood!

FAITH CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

3585 Buck Mountain Rd, Roanoke 540-769-5200 • Ages: 4-19 years www.fcsva.com Preschool, K-12, After School At Faith Christian School students are encouraged to love God and be captivated by His created world. Check out our new indexed tuition program, private education may be more affordable than you think!

GRANDIN COURT BAPTIST CHURCH

2660 Brambleton Avenue, Roanoke 540-524-2491 • Ages 2-5 years grandincourtbaptistpreschool.weebly.com Preschool Grandin Court Baptist Church Preschool partners with families to provide a high-quality learning environment and to begin fostering an understanding and appreciation of God’s presence in each child’s life. As a VA Quality participant, we achieve this goal by providing environments and student-teacher interactions which promote a child’s natural curiosity and we delight and encourage them in their discoveries.

NOAH’S LANDING PRESCHOOL

2011 Brandon Avenue, SW, Roanoke 540-982-2254 • Ages 12mo - 5 years www.noahslandingpreschool.com Preschool Noah’s Landing Preschool offers Mother’s Morning Out (MMO) as well as classes for 2, 3, and 4 year olds (Pre-K). Space is limited due to small pupil/teacher ratio per class. Our philosophy of education is based on the belief that children learn and grow best through hands on experiences.

ROANOKE VALLEY CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS

7060 Williamson Rd, Roanoke 540-366-2432 119 • Ages 2-18 years www.rvcs.info Preschool, K-12, Before/After School

Roanoke Valley Christian Schools (RVCS) was established in 1973 by Shenandoah Baptist Church and now recognizes over 1,200 alumni. Its mission is to develop disciples of Christ who will influence the world for the glory of God. RVCS accomplishes this through a partnership with each family. We

serve preschool, ages 2 through grade 12 and offer both an advanced program and resource program that can come alongside each student’s individual needs.

SOUTHVIEW PRESCHOOL

3539 Peters Creek Rd, Roanoke 540-362-1767 • Ages 2-5 years svumpreschool.webs.com Our purpose is to provide a warm, nurturing, yet challenging atmosphere in which children can learn and develop physically, socially, emotionally, cognitively, and creatively. We offer Lunch Bunch, Curbside Drop Off and Pick Up, Music, Weekly Chapel, Field Trips, Multiple Child Discount, and Referral Discounts.

COMMUNITY SCHOOL

7815 Williamson Rd, Roanoke 540-563-5036 • Ages 3-14 years www.communityschool.net Preschool, K-8 We provide education of the highest quality for children of all racial, cultural, religious, and economic backgrounds. Community School provides a program that is unique in the Roanoke Valley and a rarity statewide, a haven for those who value experiential education over standardized test results. Our school nurtures children’s individual learning styles and fosters creative and analytical thinking. Our students develop personal responsibility for their education and a passion for learning.

BONSACK BAPTIST PRESCHOOL

4845 Cloverdale Rd, Roanoke 540-977-0485 Ages 2.5-11 years www.bonsackpreschool.com Preschool, After School

Bonsack Preschool/After School is a faith based, developmentally appropriate program focused on Kindergarten Readiness for preschoolers, half and full day. After School Care for Bonsack, Cloverdale and Colonial Elementary Schools offered with priority on gym time, devotions, creativity and homework completion. Summer Camps available for both Elementary and Preschool

CHILDREN’S CASTLE

3743 Challenger Avenue, Roanoke 540-977-1282 • Ages 0-12 years childrenscastleearlylearningcenter.com Preschool, Daycare, After School We offer social development, preschool education, and after school enrichment for our community in a safe and engaging atmosphere. Our curriculum builds upon the Virginia Foundation Blocks of Early Learning to fully prepare children to be successful upon entering Elementary School.

ROANOKE ADVENTIST PREPARATORY SCHOOL

4120 Challenger Avenue, Roanoke 540-798-6061 • ages 5-14 www.rapschool.org K –8

Roanoke Adventist Preparatory School (RAPS) has been offering quality Christian education at family-friendly prices in the Roanoke area for over 75 years. RAPS mission is to foster academic excellence, passionate spirituality and outstanding character in each student. Our school is a small classroom environment where students receive grade-level appropriate individualized instruction.

RAPS is fully accredited and key learning standards are available by grade level. Tuition rates are highly competitive and scholarship opportunities are available.

ST. ANNES EPISCOPAL DAY SCHOOL

42 E. Main Street, Salem 540-389-4087 • Ages 18mos-5 years www.stpaulssalem.org/stannes Preschool

St. Anne’s curriculum is based on developmental learning and the Virginia Foundation Blocks of Early Learning. We are dedicated to the total development of each child; intellectual, spiritual, social, and physical. Our desire is that each child knows that he/she is loved and accepted.

Registration is now open for the 2018-2019 school year!

WESLEYAN PRESCHOOL

125 W. Main St., Salem 540-389-5144 • Ages 1 - 4 years fb.com/FUMCWesleyanPreschool Preschool “Jesus grew in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man.” Luke 2:52 This is the verse on which we base our preschool. Our State LIcensed Preschool’s purpose is to help your child grow cognitively, physically, spiritually , and socially/emotionally. We know that young children learn best through play, so all of our learning activities are planned to be educational and fun!

SALEM MONTESSORI

107 Corporate Blvd., Salem 540-387-1521 • Ages 6 weeks-12 years www.salemmontessori.org Preschool, k-6 Salem Montessori School - Bringing Joy to Learning!

Children are eager, spontaneous learners, curious about the world around them. The primary goal of a Montessori education is to help every child reach their full potential in all areas of life. Montessori educated children become self-confident young people, who face future challenges with optimism and who enjoy a lifetime love of learning!

GREENVALE SCHOOL

627 Westwood Blvd. NW, Roanoke 540-342-4716 • Ages 3 -5 years www.greenvale-school.org Preschool Greenvale School’s mission is to provide affordable, accessible, top-quality, developmentally appropriate childcare and educational services for children of working parents, according to each family’s ability to pay.

By promoting the highest standards of education and responsible behavior, Greenvale School’s program cultivates the growth of each child to his or her full potential. By providing a comprehensive range of services, Greenvale School supports parents’ efforts to build a secure and prosperous future for their families.

Mineral Springs Christian School

1030 Bible Ln, Vinton (540) 890-4465 • Ages 1-16 years www.mineralspringschristianschool.com

It is our goal at Mineral Springs Christian School to provide your child with an affordable Christian education. Mineral Springs Christian School is one the most important ministries of our church.

The school has been serving families for 25 years. Mineral Springs Baptist Church felt the need to provide a ministry of alternative and affordable Christian education to their church members and the community.

Inside a Dad’s Mind

A Happy Fathers Day out there to all the men who are playing an important role in a child’s life. You are a vital role model of hardwork, devotion, kindness, patience, goofiness, and love to those who look up to you!

58

Growing Up

June 2018

SUMMER

CAMP

Join us for three weeks of themed fun this summer at Kid's Square! We will start our days with the museum to ourselves to explore, play and learn. After that, we will go outside for some splish & splash fun! Water balloons, a water inatable, sidewalk chalk art and bubbles are just a few things we will experience just down on the Market Square.

DATES:

INFORMATION:

Super Hero Camp

4-6

July 16-19

TIME

June 11-June 14

AGES

Community Helpers Camp

8:30 am - 1:00 pm

August 20-23

COST

Make and Take Camp

$155.00 /Members $185.00 /Guests

To sign-up please stop by the Kid's Square front desk (3rd oor) or call Kid's Square at 540-342-5777 during normal business hours. Camps are non-refundable.

KidsSquare.org

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