Roanoke Valley Family Magazine June 2019

VOLUME 7 ISSUE 10 • JUNE 2019 | VIRGINIAFAMILY.COM

5

State Parks Within One Hour

Introducing the

Kids in the

Kitchen

Recipe Contest!

F O R M E R LY

G R O W I N G

U P

I N

T H E

VA L L E Y

Family/June 2019

1

Building Communities... Together.

Now Open in Cave Spring 3232 Electric Road, Roanoke

PRESENTED BY:

Join Growing Up in the Valley at

Royal Ball The

P M Saturday, • F R I D A Y June J U N 16, E 12018 4 T H at • The T A U Taubman BMAN MU SEUM 66 PM, Museum

$47 per couple, $15 for additional child

PRESENTED BY:

Battle alongside fellow Moms and their sons in this interactive scavenger hunt through Grandin Village and Downtown Roanoke! Don't worry - real super heroes will be on site to help you and your team out!

Earn points for each of the 20 clues you find and even some bonus points along the way!

Pick your team by purchasing the ticket of your pu choice (Marvel, DC or Super Villains)- the team with the most points at the end of the night wins a great prize!

After the scavenger hunt, hangaround the colab for pictures with super heroes and Pizza and snacks!

TICKETS $32 - includes one mom and one son!

www.roanoke.family • 540-251-1660 ww

Publishers’ Note

Summer has officially begun!

Temperatures are high, pools are open, and school is out.

Every summer, we host two of our most popular events: one is the Royal Ball, and the other is our mother-son adventure, the Roanoke Superhero Academy! We are so excited to once again bring these events to the families of the Roanoke Valley, with help from our sponsor, Freedom First.

By the way, we’ve seen your comments on Facebook about the mother-son event, and know that some of you are concerned that we’re excluding daughters. We just wanted to take a moment to reiterate that ALL are welcome! Boys, girls, dads, and moms — come one, come all!

The reason we host a mother-son event is the same reason we have a fatherdaughter princess ball. In our experience, moms don’t usually get a chance to get out of their comfort zones and become superheroes, hunting for clues throughout Roanoke with their sons, getting dirty, and having fun — much like dads don’t typically get to attend princess-themed parties.

Our goal is to encourage parents to have fun parenting and enjoy what their kids love to do for a night. It’s great when mothers share a spa day with their daughters, or dads play catch with their sons, but we like to provide a chance to mix it up a little! We market this event as an opportunity to break free and enjoy time together. That being said, we encourage anyone who thinks they might enjoy it to come out and have fun with us! In the billing of our events, we simply market to the core demographic.

So whether you come to one of our upcoming events or any of the other happenings in the region, we encourage you to get out and enjoy the beautiful Roanoke Valley during these summer months. Bike on the greenway, visit the farmers’ market on the weekends, or stop by the Star at night to look out over our beautiful valley. Don’t miss the opportunity to soak in all the wonderful things the Roanoke Valley has to offer!

Happy Summer!

The Eagan Family

Josh, Andrea, Anika, and Evelyn

Proud Members of the Parenting Media Association since 2013! Learn more at www.parentmedia.org.

Read Our Other Publications 7

Contact Us: P.O. Box 4484, Roanoke, VA 24015 540-251-1660 www.roanoke.family

Publishers

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

Creative Director Tracy Fisher

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

Community Relations Director Jeanne Lawrence

jeanne@virginiafamily.com • Parker and Connor’s Mom

Editor

Jacqueline Moon jackie@virginiafamily.com • Elijah’s Mom, and Luke and Blair’s Stepmom

Sales Executive - Lynchburg Sara Hodnett

sara@virginiafamily.com

Sales Assistants Ani & Evie Eagan

sales@virginiafamily.com • Bauer and Chloe’s Owners

WebmasterJohn Morris • COV Designs john@covdesigns.com

4

Family/June 2019

8

8

Contributors Molly Gutierrez • Kimberly Emory • Jamie Lober Susan Baldani • Tricia Mikesell • Georgianne Vecellio Rachel Levine • Jacqueline Moon

Submit Your Ideas Share your story ideas with us by emailing jackie@virginiafamily.com © Copyright 2019 Mofat Publishing

Connect With Us

/growingupinthevalley

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

We reserve the right to refuse or edit any materials submitted to us as we deem inappropriate for our audience. Please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope with any submission to be returned. We do not accept responsibility for unsolicited materials.

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 represent those of Growing Up In the Valley, its staff, or its contributors. While multiple businesses, schools, and organizations are represented in our pages, and magazines are often distributed to students according to the policies and procedures of each school district, this is not a publication coordinated or endorsed by any public or private school district, nor is it a publication with any religious or political objectives. As a mass media outlet, it is our oath and responsibility to communicate with due diligence, through our content, the plurality of views and opinions reflected in our audience of Central and Southwest Virginia. Readers are strongly encouraged to verify information with programs and businesses directly. Parents are urged to thoroughly research any decisions involving their children. Copyright 2019 by MoFat Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. All material, including artwork, advertisements, and editorials, may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher.

/roanokefamily

/rvfamilymag

/roanokevalleyfamily

On the Cover

On the Cover:

Siblings Nora (2), Katherine (9), Colin (5), and Audrey (7) Rhodes enjoy a beautiful spring day in Cloverdale.

Photography by Elizabeth Farnsworth

Family/June 2019

5

JUNE VIRGINIAFAMILY.COM

inside

features

departments

14

4

GET CREATIVE! Take care of yourself by slowing down and stretching your creativity muscles.

PUBLISHERS’ NOTE Summer is here!

17

NEWS AND NOTES Summer events at Explore Park, the Better Buildings Challenge, a new courthouse name, field trips for adoptable dogs, a new Melrose library, Salem Forensics Team dominates

8

STATE PARKS We have five of them within an hour — plan a day trip!

19 TEEN DRIVERS Here are five expert tips to make the transition to “driverhood” smoother.

21 SAFER SCHOOLS Let’s discuss how to prevent school shootings.

34

10

THE LITTLE MERMAID Roanoke Children’s Theatre’s production of the show was a hit!

26 YOUNG CHEFS Kids learn how to make delicious, nutritious food at the Y After School’s “Cooking With Me.”

24

29

25 THE MINIMALIST MOM Get control over the kids’ stuff and eliminate the playroom.

32

43

STAY SAFE IN THE SUN Be able to recognize heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

38

36 ROANOKE AREA REFUGEES

How Commonwealth Catholic Charities helps refugees — and how you can, too!

12 STUFF WE LOVE Toddler products that will make your summer amazing

THE RESTROOM REVIEW Checking out options in Grandin Village

BE PREPARED Gain peace of mind by having well-stocked first-aid kits.

SUMMER AT KINGS DOMINION! Check out these awesome new experiences at our favorite theme park.

KIDS IN THE KITCHEN Introducing the Kroger Healthy Kids Recipe Contest!

GRAND HOME FURNISHINGS EDUCATOR OF THE MONTH Oak Grove special education teacher Alisa Downey is this month’s winner!

50

BOUNCE BACK The Resiliency Collective teaches us how resilience is the key to a strong community.

39

54

TEENS AND VOLUNTEERING Learn what they can do — and what volunteering does for them.

SPEAKING UP What is a high school forensics team, and what do its members do?

44 RACHEL’S READS Rachel Levine reviews kids’ books that focus on safety for National Safety Month.

46 SCIENCE EXPERIMENT Making pennies turn green?

56 JUNE THINGS TO DO Check the calendar for this month’s Roanoke Valley fun!

Family makes a house a home

Grand Home Furnishings is proud to be family owned since 1911.

CHRISTIANSBURG 220 Laurel St NE

Total Satisfaction Guarantee If within 30 days, you are not completely happy, we will exchange your purchase or provide a full refund. Some exclusions apply.

VALLEY VIEW 1945 Valley View Blvd.

Premium Delivery & Set-up We offer fastest delivery in town. Depending on your location, your delivery may be made the next day!

LYNCHBURG 5401 Fort Ave

TANGLEWOOD 4235 Electric Rd.

Lowest Price Guarantee We guarantee that nobody will beat our prices. If an identical item is found at a lower price, we will refund 110% of the difference.* *The item must be found in stock at any other retail store in our trading area (100 mile radius) within 30 days of your purchase.

Convenient Financing Options From a Grand Credit Card to low monthly payments, to lay-away, we have options for all credit types.

news and notes

Park Ranger events this summer From May through August ranger will provide two free family events each Saturday at Explore Park! Each week, there will be a hike at 9:00 a.m. and an afternoon activity at 2:30 p.m.

The afternoon event will alternate between a ranger chat and a craft activity. Visit roanokecountyparks. com for more information, or call 540-427-1800. Explore Park is located at milepost 115 of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

U.S. Department of Energy created a Better Buildings Challenge several years ago with the intent to increase energy efficiency in American cities. The City of Roanoke joined the challenge in 2012, committing 30 buildings (1.16 million square feet) to a 20 percent energy reduction by 2022. After seven years of

hard work, the city was recognized in April for officially exceeding its Better Buildings Challenge goal — three years ahead of schedule, they achieved a 23 percent reduction! The largest wins were the Berglund Center, with a 30 percent reduction, and the jail/courthouse complex, with a 25 percent reduction.

T

he RCACP is letting the dogs out — and they need your help! A new “field trip” program, Roanoke Adventure Dogs, pairs members of the community with shelter dogs for offsite field trip fun. Not ready to adopt, but still want to help out a dog in need? RAD allows adoptable dogs to spend some much-needed time outside the shelter going on day-long adventures with dog-loving volunteers. Whether adventure means going on a hike, a nice walk on the greenway, a trip to a local dog-friendly restaurant, or a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway is up to you! This program was designed to make it easy for the community to participate, so signing up is easy. Participants will be provided with everything they need for a successful field trip. Individuals or families interested in the Roanoke Adventure Dog program should email Meghann Cords at mcords@rcacp.org, or call the shelter at 540-3444922.

8

Family/June 2019

The Roanoke

City courthouse has a new name!

A

t a ceremony on May 1, 2019, the new courthouse name was announced: the Oliver W. Hill Justice Center. Born May 1, 1907, Oliver Hill was a civil rights lawyer in Roanoke, and later in Richmond. He was the lead attorney for the Virginia State Conference of the NAACP, and was outspoken in his encouragement of African-Americans to exercise their right to vote as a way to challenge racial discrimination. At the renaming ceremony, Mayor Sherman Lea spoke, as did Chief Judge William Broadhurst of the 23rd Judicial Circuit of Virginia, Roanoke Bar Association President Lee Osborne, and Ramona Taylor, President of The Oliver White Hill Foundation.

T

he Salem Forensics team won its 14th straight VHSL State Title!

The championship competition was held at Clover Hill High School, and Salem defeated E.C. Glass 41-22 in a competition that included a total of 21 schools. Salem captured the team championship largely because the Spartans won 7 out of 10 individual titles. Since 2004, this program has produced a staggering 78 individual state champions. Humor was once again the backbone of the Spartan victory. Reid Burton won his first state championship in Humorous Interpretation, a category SHS has won on the state level for 11 straight years. Salem also dominated Humorous Duo, winning its ninth title in the event, with the state champion duo of Meredith Hicks and Rachel Chaos. Salem Adalynn Eller and Skyler Allen finished a strong third in this category. The “Mingerson Dynasty” is spearheaded by coaches Mark Ingerson and Pam Carter.

From the desk of Roanoke’s City Manager:

T

he new Melrose Branch Library, scheduled to open later this summer, will be the city’s largest branch library and, in addition to thousands of books, dozens of computers, etc., the new library will include a STEM lab. This lab will allow area youth the opportunity to learn and conduct hands-on experiments with science, technology, and mathematics. With the creativity of the Library staff and the presence of so many technology-based companies and health care providers in the community, the possibilities are endless!

Family/June 2019

9

just for fun

Helathy Kids Recipe

10

Family/June 2019

Ingredients  2 cartons (5.3 ounces each) fatfree vanilla Greek yogurt

 2 teaspoons brown sugar  1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon  1 cup granola without raisins  8 freezer pop molds or paper cups (3 ounces each) and wooden pop sticks

 1 can (15 ounces) sliced peaches

in extra-light syrup or juice, drained and chopped

Directions In a small bowl, combine yogurt, brown sugar, and cinnamon,fold in granola.

Divide half of yogurt mixture among molds or paper cups. Top with with half of peaches; repeat layers. Top molds with holders. If using cups, top with foil and insert sticks through foil. Freeze until firm.

These delicious frozen treats have no preservatives but tons of fruit and flavor! The Greek yogurt adds protein to a summer treat that is normally pure sugar.

Other fruits can be used in place of peaches. Apples, strawberries, blueberries are three delicious options!

Sponsored by

Family/June 201911

growing up: toddlers

Stuff

We

Love

PAW Patrol Swim Trainer Life Jackets These life jackets are U.S. Coast Guard-approved and feature an adorable design and soft fabric.

Flotation in the arms and chest provide greater mobility. $18.88$24.99, fits most children weighing 30-50 pounds. target.com

Baby Valet An innovative outfit organizer and wet bag provides space for everything needed for baby.

Roll and take anywhere. $34.95. earlybirdblue.com

Free Wheelin’ Rider Sport Convertible Balance Bike A stylish pushbike that changes and grows along with your child. Start it off as a 3-wheeler, then convert into a 2-wheel balance bike. Adjustable height. $59.99, ages 1+. playmonster.com

JJ Cole Outdoor Mat

Baby Ferris Wheel

These fun mats are perfect for summertime concerts, the beach, and picnics. Adjustable carrying strap, quick-fold design, and waterresistant fabric. $34.95. tomy.com

Take these adorable Baby Critters for some outdoor fun at the amusement park on this sweet little Ferris wheel. $17.95, ages 2 -4. calicocritters.com

Fold & Go Rally Racer A toddler race car that’s parent-powered. Fold to transport and store. $59.99, ages 1.5 – 4. simplay3.com

Heads Talk Tails Walk Can you hop like a frog while clucking like a chicken? You’ll have fun trying with this hilarious card game. $14.99, ages 3+. thinkfun.com

12

Family/June 2019

FATHER’S DAY! Gifts for Dad

NEW!

Fun toys for the whole family!

Top Quality Pet Food and Supplies

We invite you to stop by and browse Roanoke’s LARGEST selection of premium & natural pet foods, USA made dog toys & treats, dog & cat supplies, wildbird care items, organic chicken feed, & gifts for the whole family!

LOYALTY PROGRAM DISCOUNTS | PET GROOMING | SELF SERVICE DOG WASH DOG TRAINING | DOGGIE DAYCARE Nature’s Emporium 3912 Brambleton Ave Roanoke, VA 24018 540-772-1980 www.MyNaturesEmporium.com

$5.00 off

Purchase of $30 or More

Not valid on purchase of gift cards. Coupon may not be duplicated or combined with other in-store offers. May not be used on dog/cat food, services, or vet flea product.

Code: guitvmay1

Expires: 07-15-2019

Family/June 201913

family wellness

Stress Less...

W

ellness is what you get when your mind and body are healthy and work together in perfect harmony. There are plenty of facets to the gem that is wellness, and one of them is psychological (or spiritual) self-care. Want to show some love to your psyche? Me too, and there’s a great way to do it: by allowing ourselves the time and space to be creative.

Creativity isn’t especially valued in our fast-paced society, as you might have noticed. Creativity is born out of boredom and daydreams and taking the time to get lost in thought. It requires that we spend time alone, still, while the rest of the world rushes past. That isn’t exactly a popular way of life these days.

Our society places a lot of value on multitasking, staying busy, achieving, and succeeding. Schools around the country are edging out arts programs in favor of longer math classes. Professors Brian Kisida and Daniel Bowen, of the nonprofit The Brookings Institution, remarked a bit rancorously in a recent blog post that “a critical challenge for arts education has been a lack of empirical evidence that demonstrates its educational value.”

Now, we as a society do enjoy the fruits of creativity — we love great films, novels, musical performances, paintings, sculptures.

But our day-to-day lives and ambitions don’t

14

Family/June 2019

Create!

prioritize the creative process. That’s a shame, because in order for us as individuals to be psychologically well, we have to allow ourselves to be creative. A recent review of more than one hundred studies on the effects of participating in the arts concluded that “creative expression has a powerful impact on health and well-being.”

When we ignore this facet of psychological well-being, we normalize a stress-filled lifestyle — and that lifestyle takes a toll.

Stress contributes to physical problems like headaches, insomnia, chest pain, and stomach discomfort. The fight-or-flight response releases hormones that increase

heart rate and blood pressure; breathing changes — you might either hold your breath or hyperventilate; your liver can become overwhelmed with the rush of hormones and produce too much glucose; you can get stomach and intestinal discomfort and problems with digestion — which affects nutrient absorption.

Three out of four Americans say they regularly experience at least one symptom of stress, and a search for the “cure” leads people to take measures ranging from meditation to prescription medicines.

While those things do have their places, the whole of society — its collective wellness — would benefit greatly from making time for creativity.

Our mental and psychological sides are also hurt by stress. “Emotional distress due to overbusyness,” said psychiatrist Joseph Bienvenu, “manifests as difficulty focusing and concentrating, impatience and irritability, trouble getting adequate sleep, and mental and physical fatigue.”

Modern American society tends to consider time spent on creativity as a luxury, a waste of time, or just something for “creative types” to do. But the truth is that we humans are born to imagine and create. Psychologist and author Robert Epstein said the idea that some people “aren’t endowed with the creativity gene” is a myth, and that “[t]here’s not really any evidence that one

GROUP CREATIVITY IDEAS this month:

For adults:

What: Blue Ridge Beaders: All skill levels are invited to bead together and learn from each other.

Where: Hollins Branch Library – 6624 Peters Creek Rd, Roanoke When: Every first Sat. from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Price: FREE!

person is inherently more creative than another.” The key to unlocking this door to wellness lies simply in our setting aside the time and effort necessary to make it happen.

Here in twenty-first century America, people are overstressed in epidemic proportions. While there’s evidence that being too busy to “stop and smell the roses” is a human fault that dates back millennia (there’s writing from the first century about the perils of living a toohectic life), our modern problem is also unique. The problem is that we now equate being busy to being a valuable human being.

“Somewhere toward the end of the twentieth century,” said journalist Brigid Schulte in her book Overwhelmed: Work, Love, and Play When No One Has the Time, “busyness became not just a way of life but glamorous. Now, they say, it is a sign of high social status. . . . If you’re busy, you’re important. You’re leading a full and worthy life.”

Some have speculated that the obsession with staying busy was born when the concept of time became tied to earnings.

For kids: What: Art Gone Wild: This twohour class will give children the opportunity to use the zoo’s residents as inspiration for fun, colorful and unique art projects. Painting, threedimensional work, and multi-media projects are just a few of the possible critter-themed activities children will have a chance to participate in.

Where: Mill Mountain Zoo

What: Writing Workshop: Writing exercises, followed by a reading and critique of your own work.

Where: South County Library – 6303 Merriman Rd, Roanoke When: Every second Tues. at 6:30 p.m.

Price: FREE!

A 2014 article in The Economist said, “Ever since a clock was first used to synchronize labor in the eighteenth century, time has been understood in relation to money.

Once hours are financially quantified, people worry more about wasting, saving or using them profitably.”

Others place the blame on indoctrination.

Schulte said, “Psychologists write of treating burned-out clients who can’t shake the notion that the busier you are, the more you are thought of as competent, smart, successful, admired, and even envied.” She quoted one stressed-out worker as saying, “The Protestant work ethic is very strong here. The whole ‘Idle hands are the devil’s workshop’ thing is very big.”

The overstressed way of life affects all types of individuals: young and old, rich and poor, educated and not. We ingrain our kids with the need to stay busy with structured after-school activities and sports; the poor work two or three jobs in the hope of achieving the American Dream; the rich strive to maintain their status.

By engaging in curious creativity and using our imagination, we counteract the stress

that’s imposed on us from all sides. When we consciously put aside time for creative pursuits — not to make money, but simply for the sake of creating — we improve our psychological wellness. Allowing ourselves to be idle long enough to let the creative juices flow has a salve-like effect on a stressed-out psyche. Recent research on the creation of visual art, for example, determined that making art has “stabilizing effects on the individual by reducing distress [and] increasing selfreflection and self-awareness.”

Since our society generally stays too busy, and people often don’t allow themselves the much-needed time to be curious and creative, the result is a culture of perpetual stress. And a nation of overly stressed, constantly busy people becomes a nation of medicated people (whether selfmedicated or prescribed), of overweight and otherwise unhealthy people. When the majority of us are overstressed, we turn into a nation characterized by shorttempered parents, workaholics, fractured relationships, and shaky ethics. We need a new way of thinking, one that goes like this: Staying busy is unhealthy, and taking leisure time for creativity is necessary.

When: Saturday, June 15 2-4 p.m. for ages 8-12, Friday, June 28 from 10-12 p.m. for ages 6-9.

Price: Member: $15/Non-Member: $20 What: Maker Saturdays: For ages 3-18.

Projects available for all skill levels and ages.

Where: Belmont Branch Library – 1101 Morningside St SE, Roanoke When: Every Sat. in June, 10:00 a.m.

Price: FREE! Family Family /June 2019 /June 201915

family wellness To fix the problem, all we need to do is prioritize a little creative time. In the same way that “fitness culture” has made a priority of regular exercise, there needs to be a “creative culture” where regular time for creative pursuits is set aside.

The creative time can focus on visual arts like drawing, painting, and sculpture, but it isn’t limited to those things. Other ways to be creative include writing (like stories, poetry, and journals), photography, dancing, decorating your home, cooking (by either trying a new recipe or creating your own), gardening, inventing, upcycling, crafting, and playing (or learning) an instrument. It could even be building with Legos or making sidewalk-chalk drawings with your kids.

What it all comes down to is this: Wellness depends on lots of different behaviors and attitudes of both the mind and the body — and one of the facets of the perfectly polished diamond of wellness is being psychologically healthy. Inner well-being is in short supply in our society, but it can be achieved by making a regular effort to slow down and engage in creative activities.

For families: What: Clay People: Learn to create clay people. The clay used is fun, nontoxic, not messy and selfhardening. It is engaging fun for the whole family. All are welcome.

Where: Williamson Road Branch Library – 3837 Williamson Rd, Roanoke When: Friday, June 14, 2019 Price: FREE! What: Family Pottery: Many parents are as interested in pottery as their children. In this class, work side by side with your child, learning how to hand

build with clay and work on the potter’s wheel. The fee includes one bag of clay, glazes and the use of tools. An adult must register with a child for this six-week class.

Ages 7 and up. Register online at roanokecountyparks.com or by calling 540-387-6078.

Where: Brambleton Center – 3738 Brambleton Ave, Roanoke When: 6/30/2019 - 8/4/2019 Price: $75 per person.

Happy creating!

CHOOSE FROM 2-5 DAYS PER WEEK

NEW PRESCHOOL ENROLLMENT OPTIONS

HALF-DAY AND FULL-DAY CLASSES FOR AGES 3-5

CommunitySchool.net 16

Family/June 2019

in the neighborhood

Five Unforgettable Park Experiences within an hour of Roanoke

by Shellie Anne

If you live in Virginia’s Blue Ridge, also known as the Roanoke Valley, then there’s plenty to see and do nearby, from waterfalls and scenic drives to rocky outcroppings like the famed McAfee Knob.

But what if you want to spend a day in the park? Some of Virginia State Parks’ visitor favorites are all within an hour’s drive, including the most iconic spot in the entire Commonwealth.

You may be new to the area or considering a move and would like to see what is available for day tripping nearby. Or you may be a lifelong resident and have never found these incredible places that are within your reach. Either way, here’s your guide to fun day tripping adventures all within an hour of home, courtesy of Virginia State Parks.

1. | DOUTHAT STATE PARK

the Blue Ridge Parkway and 30 minutes west of Martinsville.

A family-favorite park that originated in 1936 located in the beautiful Allegheny Mountains, Douthat is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for the role its design played in the development of parks nationwide.

Recreational enthusiasts call this park “epic”

Jet Skis are a fun way to explore Claytor Lake.

Endless views entice you to see the lake from Douthat State Park’s Tuscarora Overlook.

and the “Disneyland of mountain biking.”

Visitors can enjoy interpretive programs, four miles of stream fishing, a 50-acre lake stocked for the best trout fishing around, and a sandy swimming beach with boat rentals open seasonally. Also open in season is the Lakeview Restaurant, with outdoor seating and views of the water and mountains. (Hint: Order the “Douthat Chips” — you won’t be disappointed.)

You can also rent the facility for private functions throughout the year.

This park has more than 43 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and bridle trails. It’s also surrounded by the George Washington National Forest for even more wooded trails to ride.

There are playgrounds and picnic areas, tent and trailer camping, 32 cabins, and three lodges that can accommodate 15, 16, and 18 guests each.

2. | CLAYTOR LAKE STATE PARK It’s easy to see that the majority of fun at Claytor Lake State Park is centered on

Park attractions include cabins, a lodge, and a campground, as well as group camping, yurts, an equestrian campground, a conference center, hiking trails, and a swimming beach with rentals of rowboats, canoes, paddle boats, and kayaks. There are also wonderful picnic spots and two playgrounds — including one in the water.

the water and the abundance of related recreation. Spend the day on the water, at the beach, or riding the four miles of easy-rated hiking or bike trails. There are fun nature, history, and outdoor programs throughout the year, as well as festivals and music events.

Being a larger lake, fishing is a popular sport at Claytor Lake State Park. Bass, catfish, muskie, walleye, and striped bass are among the popular sport fish found in the lake. There is a seasonal marina with boat rentals, boat slips, gasoline, and fishing supplies and licenses. Rent a pontoon, motorboat, canoe, standup paddleboard, or kayak at this park.

Last year, Mountain 2 Island Paddleboard Company held “Paddle Up Concerts” in one of the park’s coves.

Unlike some of our other, more remote, Virginia State Parks, you can easily access Claytor Lake State Park by taking Exit 101 off Interstate 81 and driving just a few miles to reach the park entrance. This makes it a great outing location midway, coming from either the north or south.

3. | FAIRY STONE STATE PARK Famous as the home of the legendary fairy stones, Fairy Stone State Park is also well-known for its 168-acre lake that adjoins its big sister, the Philpott Reservoir. The park is just minutes from

A paddle-boat armada awaits your visit to Fairy Stone State Park.

Hiking trails may surprise visitors, with more than 10 miles of trails. You can hike to a waterfall and hike past an iron mine to Stuart’s Knob, with magnificent views of the lake and the rolling Blue Ridge foothills.

Hunting for fairy stones is one of the most popular reasons for visiting this park, and a map of the hunting site is given to visitors when they come through the gate or stop at the park office.

4. | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE STATE PARK This second-largest lake in Virginia hosts events ranging from mother-daughter teas to triathlons and bass fishing tournaments.

It is one of the top lakes in our state, and people flock to enjoy the boating, camping, and numerous other water activities that can be found at Smith Mountain Lake State Park.

Families enjoy picnicking, a visitor center, an amphitheater, special programs, camping, miles of trails, and cabins with dedicated Family/June 2019 17

in the neighborhood 5. | NATURAL BRIDGE STATE PARK

Smith Mountain Lake State Park hosts many special events throughout the year, like triathlons.

boat docks. The swimming beach is a wonderful place to cool off in the heat of summer and even has accessible restrooms and picnic areas.

There are hay rides, canoe trips, and special hikes. Another interesting activity for kids is geocaching, or they can participate in the “Junior Naturalists” program, which is for children 6-10 years old and focuses on the themes of nature and arts and crafts.

The park offers ample opportunities for shore and boat fishing. You’ll find striped bass, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, catfish, and several other species. There is a fishing pier and boat launch for motorized boats.

Most folks from within the Commonwealth who have visited this icon share that their first visit was way back on an elementary school field trip. Natural Bridge sits proudly atop the covers of tourism magazines, magnets, and more. People from around the world have a knowledge of Natural Bridge, now a Virginia State Park.

Natural Bridge State Park was once owned

by Thomas Jefferson and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The amazing, 215-foot tall Natural Bridge is a limestone gorge carved out over time by a seemingly small creek. But the newest Virginia State Park is more than just the bridge; it offers beautiful forests, its open and rolling meadows showcase the area’s karst terrain, and there are stunning views of surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. You can hike the trails at this park for six miles, including the fully accessible Cedar Creek Trail that leads you under the bridge to the Monacan Indian Village, and onto Lace Falls with its 30-foot cascade.

Natural Bridge is incredible. Can you see the people walking under the bridge?

Experience life in the living history programs at the Monacan Indian Village that will connect you to the past and demonstrate how people once used the area’s resources for survival and inspiration.

BONUS: The Appalachian Trail is also within your reach! From day hikes to backpacking overnighters, you have access from Roanoke to some of the best parts of this nationally recognized trail. The AT is a 2,175-mile trail following the Appalachian Mountains from Georgia to Maine, with 120 miles of the trail meandering through the Roanoke region.

This article has been adapted by permission from a series posted on the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation’s website, dcr. virginia.gov. Visit the site for more information, links to state parks, and other ideas for family recreation in the area!

WWW.LENKBRACES.COM • 540-966-3990 228 Commons Parkway ,Daleville, VA • Conveniently located near Exit 150B, off I-81, Route 220

Bringing Award - Winning Smiles to SouthWest Virginia

CALL 540.966.3990 FOR YOUR FREE EXAM We’ll give you a reason to Smile! • Misty D. Lenk, DDS, MS, PC.

18

Family/June 2019

growing up: teens

Creating Responsible Drivers

by Kimberly Emory

T

eenage. Drivers.

Two words that combine to strike fear in the hearts of parents everywhere. While many teens are eager for the freedom of the open road and the new opportunities driving can open up to them, it can be scary for parents to allow their young, inexperienced driver to hit the road solo. Below are some tips from experts in the field of driving to help navigate this experience and make it (slightly) less worrisome.

Start Young Holly Carpenter, owner/instructor of Aim High Driving School, encourages parents to start training their kids early when it comes to driving. “As soon as they are old enough to sit in the front seat, get them up front with you. Make sure they’re undistracted — no phones or devices — and engage them in what you’re doing.

Ask them lots of questions: ‘I’m about to turn — do I have the right of way? What’s the speed limit here? What does that sign mean, and why is it a different color?

Help them understand where to find things on the dashboard. I’m a firm believer

that knowledge is power, so the more you can involve them early on, the more experience they will have.”

Have Teens get a Learner’s Permit Early Carpenter also encourages parents to get a learner’s when they’re of age to do so.

The earliest a teenager can get a learner’s permit in the state of Virginia is 15 years and six months old. After that, they have to hold it for a minimum of nine months before they qualify for a license if they are under age 18. During that time, they must complete four requirements: • Successfully complete the behind the wheel training, whether through the school system’s offering or a private driving school.

• Pass the driver’s education course, which is taught in most high schools in tenth-grade PE courses, or can also be taken privately through a driving school.

• Log 45 hours of driving with a licensed driver, at least 15 of which must be night driving hours.

• Study the driver’s test manual and pass the test at the DMV. The requirements dramatically diminish as teens get older. Once they reach 18, they only have to have held a learner’s permit for 60 days and then pass the driving test at the DMV; no classwork or logged hours are required. As a result, they are often inexperienced compared to the teens who start earlier and have more requirements for the same license.

“The majority of my DIP [driver improvement program] classes are 18- or 19-year-olds who decided, for whatever reason, to wait to get their license, and they don’t have the experience of drivers the same age who got their learners’ and licenses much younger. Every moving violation for licensed drivers under 20 years old is an automatic DIP class requirement, so don’t wait! Let them get the experience they need to be good drivers.”

Be a Good Example and Know the Laws July first of every year is when new traffic laws go into effect in the state of

Family/June 2019 19

growing up: teens Virginia. After this date, if you are found in violation of a new traffic law, you can be ticketed. Carpenter reminds us to make sure you keep yourself up-to-date with the laws, especially as they are changed or updated, not only so you can teach your teens but can be educated yourself.

If we are good examples of responsible motorists, then our teens will (hopefully) pick up on those habits.

Be Aware of the Common Teenage Driving Pitfalls Carpenter says one of the things she sees a lot in her business is young drivers who lose control of their vehicle, especially in bad weather conditions. “Teens hydroplane a lot and don’t know how to recover, then get into accidents. They don’t have the experience to always know that this same road and same curve they’ve driven dozens of times becomes more dangerous just when it gets wet, and they need to slow down.”

Matt Vass, police officer for Roanoke County for 15 years and Cave Spring High’s resource officer for the past five has more to add to the list. His advice to teen drivers is:

20

Family/June 2019

• Don’t be in a hurry and go too fast.

• Leave your ego at home. If someone cuts you off, don’t take it personally.

• Don’t give in to peer pressure from others in the car to do anything you shouldn’t be doing.

• Be aware of other drivers around you.

Try to predict what they’re going to do.

Also, be careful in gauging the speed of other cars when you pull out onto the street — teens have less experience with this and it can lead to accidents.

Teens tend to overcorrect and jerk the wheel one way or another, which can make them go off the road or into other lanes.

They need to practice how to handle the vehicle.

Preparing for the common issues teens face as inexperienced drivers will make them better prepared to handle situations that arise while driving and hopefully help avoid accidents.

Distracted Driving Of course, as both Carpenter and Vass emphasize, focusing on the road is very

important when driving. Vass reminds teens to not let anything distract them — radio, cell phone, or person. Even having a device on your thigh as you’re driving, waiting for it to go off, can lead to less attentiveness to the road. Carpenter says the current statistic is that more sober drivers are causing accidents than drunk drivers today — which of course means distracted driving has become the norm and much more dangerous. Carpenter recommends that parents research apps for teens’ phones while driving. There are apps that can deactivate devices while the ignition is on, and others that can track certain behaviors of the teens’ driving, such as cell phone use and speed, and give a report on demand to help keep them accountable.

While we often think that the older a child is, the better driver they will be, we find that experience is the key factor in making responsible drivers, so delaying a learner’s permit or license does not decrease the likelihood of accidents. Practice makes perfect, so waiting to allow your teen time behind the wheel gives them less experience with the world of driving. Start training them early and remember — as parents, it’s ultimately up to us to teach our teens what responsible driving looks like.

family wellness

How to prevent the next school shooting

by Jo Coles

I

am a school psychologist, a former Marine, a survivor of gun violence and I have a concealed carry permit. I am also one of the professionals called when students experience a mental health crisis.

I believe that guns should only be carried by qualified police officers in our schools. Teachers are already assigned to gather, shelter and protect students in a crisis situation. We are qualified to provide first aid and emotional support for students in well-rehearsed lockdown situations.

When a student shows up in school with the intention of shooting fellow

“

We should do everything we can to keep our children safe.

”

classmates, the system has already failed that student.

Picture this: You are a first-grade student. You are told to hide under your desk, to be quiet, as your teacher covers the windows with paper, as she turns the lights off and locks the door. No one says exactly what these drills are for, but you know. You see the pictures on the magazines and newspapers at the store, you hear the people talking on the news about school shootings.

For today’s high school students, these active shooter drills have been a part of life since they first began attending Family/June 201921

family wellness This proposal to arm tens of thousands of teachers will only benefit gun manufacturers and will likely result in more accidents, injuries and deaths. I fear it will also make what is sometimes the only safe space in a child’s life a more hostile environment, as it changes the dynamics of the relationship between teachers and their students. We tell children to “use your words” to solve playground disputes. We want to show them a better way to problem solve than the use of force.

For some children, school is the only place where they will receive regular meals, where the heat is turned on, where there are trusted adults to talk to. Schools are frequently the only place where students receive mental health interventions. There is so much stigma regarding mental illness in our culture, and the debate around gun violence has only added to that stigma. Statistically, people with mental illness are more likely to be victims of violence rather than the perpetrators of it.

school. It’s no wonder that, in the wake of yet another mass shooting, students are the ones leading a new wave of protests against government inaction on this issue.

Schoolchildren have been bearing the brunt of the inaction of our nation’s politicians throughout their lives.

We should do everything we can to keep our children safe. Some wellintentioned people are proposing that we train teachers to carry firearms on campus, so that educators may hunt an active shooter if needed. This idea, if implemented, could have disastrous consequences.

An experienced shooter can sometimes fire multiple shots per second, usually when a firearm is enhanced with a bump stock. At that rate, skilled marksmanship isn’t required to hit a moving target.

There is no outrunning this kind of firepower. There isn’t time to shoot back.

Simply put: These are weapons of war, and they are being used to target our children, often by other students.

22

Family/June 2019

“

When a student shows up with the intention of shooting fellow classmates, the system has already failed.

”

A growing body of research suggests students of color and students with disabilities face significant disparities in discipline and suspensions in public schools. I fear that arming teachers will only make school an even more hostile place for these children who are already marginalized.

I work with students in crisis, who are struggling with mental health challenges or a lack of self-regulation skills. What they need is more help from those professionals trained to provide it — from the mental health professionals and their teachers, whom they see five days each week. They need curriculum that provides coping and social-emotional skills.

Rather than arming educators and school psychologists with guns, arm us with more resources to do our jobs.

I’m tired of the political gridlock around an issue that isn’t political — gun violence is a public health threat. Last year, in the wake of the tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida, everyone from Walmart to Dick’s Sporting Goods to the Florida Legislature came to realize that there’s no reason that people under age 21 should be able to purchase semiautomatic rifles.

But not the Washington State Legislature.

Our elected officials failed to take even a single floor vote on Substitute Senate Bill 6620, which would’ve raised the age to

purchase semi-automatic rifles to 21 and strengthened the background check on those rifles — that’s already the law for handguns in our state. The school safety bill also would have added school safety measures, like funding for more campus resource officers.

Let the police and SWAT teams handle the tactical approach for disarming a student with a gun on campus. Don’t complicate it with even more firearms in our currently gun-free zoned schools. Let’s not act like an active shooting is the best place for an intervention to begin.

If Washington’s legislators can’t muster the same moral courage that major corporations are showing — to say nothing of our students — then it’s time for new legislators.

Preventing school shootings starts long before a troubled student fires a gun. It starts before a student accesses a firearm.

It starts with educators, counselors, school psychologists, peers and parents. It starts

with adults who vote for reasonable, common-sense restrictions to address the easy access of these lethal assault weapons to teens and people in crisis.

Jo Coles is a district-level school psychologist who holds dual master’s degrees from the University of Idaho in education and counseling. She is an ardent advocate for public and school safety, testifying frequently before the Washington State Legislature.

Kids’ Summer Matinee Series

LOONEY TUNES

SECRET OF NIMH

JUNE 28/29

JUNE 14/15

JUNE 21/22

Free Morning Matinees on Friday and Saturday. All shows start at 10:00 am

WALLACE & GROMIT SHORTS

grandintheatre.com

The Grandin Theatre • 1310 Grandin Road • Roanoke, VA • 540-345-6377

Family/June 201923

in the neighborhood

Rating Area Restrooms

on a Five-Toilet-Paper-Roll Scale

by Georgianne Vecellio

I

Another option is the Co-op, just a two and a half minute walk from the market.

Their facilities are at the back of the store, so you have to walk down a couple of aisles — I like to wander just a bit so it doesn’t look like I’m running in just to use the restroom. There are two stalls, one of which is large and handicappedaccessible. The restroom is clean, and there is a clean, sturdy changing station.

The décor is basic, and there is no art, but on the plus side, the Co-op always has nice soap (EO Lemon Eucalyptus is not harsh and it smells great). Stop and buy some (or another great product) on your way out, since you used their restroom.

t’s a beautiful summer Saturday morning.

After a cup or two of your preferred morning beverage, you’re off to the Grandin Village Farmers Market. You see people you know, talk to the cool vendors, and peruse all kinds of goodies. Often, you can get something refreshing to drink as you make your way around. The longer you linger, the greater your chance of needing a restroom. But the summer market is outside!

You might be thinking, “Whatever, I’ll just pop into _____,” and true, there are a lot of business near the market, including eateries that are open early on Saturdays.

If you are planning to patronize one of these establishments, no worries, but if you intend to run in, use the restroom, and leave, think again. Many businesses have policies forbidding non-patrons from using their restrooms. But really, even if there is no such policy in place, it’s not cool to make a habit of going to a business just for the purpose of using their restroom.

(Disclaimer #1: in a true emergency, do what you need to do. Disclaimer #2: in a fast food restaurant, anything goes, but the Grandin area is fortunate not to have any fast food restaurants.)

Here’s what you need to know: Imagination Station on Grandin has a beautiful restroom, and the Toy Ladies will let you use it. From the market, a quick jaunt to the store (it’s a straight shot through the alley) will take you roughly a minute and a half. Once you’re there, head to

the back of the store and you will see the restroom. It is a single-occupant restroom, but very spacious. There are hooks on the wall between the toilet and the sink (not on the door itself), and a chair for you to set items on. The toilet is clean, and there are accessibility bars on the wall next to it. There is a low sink with a stool so that small kiddos can wash their hands, and a clean, well-maintained changing station.

This restroom is well stocked; there is plenty of TP, tissues, and air freshener. It’s well-lit and full of great art to keep little ones amused. The downside: if you don’t have kids with you and aren’t familiar with Imagination Station, you might feel awkward going in just to use the restroom.

Also, the restroom is in the middle of the store, and you might not appreciate the acoustics if you are going to, ahem, be in there a while.

Surrogate Mothers Needed!

Call for Information

There is a 7-Eleven on Grandin close to the market, but I advise against using their restroom. It is more like a closet with a toilet in it — there isn’t even room for the sink (it’s in the open area just outside the restroom door). There is no hook, no room for a stroller, and it’s not very clean.

Unless you are a solo man, just don’t.

The verdict: I give Imagination Station’s restroom five toilet paper rolls, and the Co-op’s facilities four and a half.

Be Part of a miracle Earn up to $50,000 by giving the gift of life.

The rewards are more than financial.

We are seeking women ages 21-43, non-smokers with a healthy pregnancy history.

1-888-363-9457

www.reproductivepossibilities.com 24

Family/June 2019

family home

The Minimalist Mom:

by Tricia Mikesell

Eliminate the Playroom

I

’m so guilty of designating an entire room to my children’s toys. We converted our formal living room space to a kid-free toy storage room. My kids thoroughly enjoyed ransacking all their toys multiple times throughout the day. The room stayed a mess. At the end of each day, we would take about 30 minutes and scoop all the toys back to their bins and line up everything along the wall.

I knew their bedrooms had sufficient area to store their must-have toys, and yet I was allowing the toys to consume other areas of our home. So, in my effort to minimalize our spaces, I made ample space in their bedrooms to store their favorite toys and books. Once the space was available in their rooms, I decided to say goodbye to the playroom and take back my formal living room — or what we now call the piano room.

Best decision I ever made! I’ve gained back three and a half hours of my time a week that I’m not spending picking up toys. Now that the kids’ toys are in their rooms, they’re responsible for keeping

that space tidy. They clean up their own things, so they have less of a desire to keep every toy in sight. They happily pare down their toys and books to their favorites.

At first, I struggled with letting go of toys that were expensive, because I felt like I was wasting so much money. Once I changed my mindset and realized the money was already wasted because the kids weren’t playing with the toys, it was easier to toss them into the donate pile. It feels good to think about a child actually using the toys and not storing them in my house for me to pick up daily.

After

I also decided to apply the value of my time to the decision to eliminate the playroom. I would’ve paid money for the time I gained back, so letting the toys go was not a waste of money at all. I purchased two bins from Amazon that were labeled “toys” and “books” to help the kids sort through their items. My daughter Charlotte, who is six, loves stuffed animals, so she has additional storage bin for those. Originally, we used a pop-up hamper; we’ve since installed a

Before stuffed animal zoo frame where she can toss them.

My tip to any mom is to get rid of the playroom! You won’t miss it, I promise. Gain that time back to spend playing outside or at a park. Use that time to read or play a game. Use that free space to entertain friends or relax.

Family/June 201925

just for fun

by Molly Gutierrez

ME O

ne. Two. Three. CRUNCH! A chorus of crunching tortilla chips and “mmmms!” resounds through the cafeteria at Grandin Court Elementary as the children taste test their latest creation: Awesomely Adventurous Pineapple Salsa.

Kids from the Y-After School program from preschool through fifth grade are enjoying a culinary adventure full of surprises through a seven week program called Cooking With Me, sponsored by Kroger’s Zero Hunger, Zero Waste campaign. In this program, children at eight Y-After School sites in Roanoke gain a greater understanding about the relevant issues of food insecurity (which affect many of our neighbors here in Southwest Virginia), as well as healthy, surprising ways to enjoy fruits and vegetables in foods they already love, by participating in on-site demonstrations of recipes — complete with a final group taste test.

The goal of the program is to get kids excited about delicious, healthy foods they may already have in their pantry — and to share that excitement with their loved ones by trying the recipe at home, with the children

26

Family/June 2019

teaching their families how it’s done. With all the interesting recipes, the kids develop more sophisticated palates. They also learn a new way to see everyday foods — like a humble can of black beans — with a fresh perspective.

They gain a sense of gratitude for the time, energy, effort, and community of people involved to harvest the beans to become that can on the shelf. Cultivating an attitude of “gratifood” means finding ways to appreciate foods we may have otherwise left on our plates or thrown away.

The recipes are carefully selected to emphasize the transformational value of healthy foods — they become the unexpected, challenging kids’ ideas about what they might or might not like. Trying new foods gives children the confidence to be adventurous and discover new things about themselves. The most popular and surprising taste test so far has been warm, gooey Out of This World Black Bean Brownies, with even the staunchest naysayers and food critics begging for seconds.

When a recipe doesn’t hit the spot, high-fives and congratulations are still given for trying something new. Along with learning some

quirky new desserts, the kids have learned about food deserts. They’re making the connection that food insecurity for many of our Roanoke neighbors can come from living more than a mile from a grocery store, and that local corner stores — stocked with chips, cookies, and sodas — simply don’t offer the staples of fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, and beans to create a healthy, nourishing meal.

The program’s grand finale, in late May, was an interactive, experiential tasting event at the Claude Moore Culinary Institute. Children and parents sampled all eight recipes, and the kids were inspired to allow their newfound culinary creativity to flourish in their own kitchens over the summer.

For more cooking class fun with a healthy twist, check out the Little Chefs series, sponsored by the Virginia Cooperative Extension, at the Gainsboro YMCA’s amazing teaching kitchen on Saturday mornings this June.

Ready to do your own taste test? Try the Awesomely Adventurous Pineapple Salsa, as well as the Cooking With Me favorite: Out of This World Black Bean Brownies!

INGREDIENTS:

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 of an organic red pepper 1/2 of an organic green pepper 1/4 of a red onion 1 can of pineapple tidbits in juice 2 organic plum tomatoes 1/4 of a bunch of organic cilantro

Instructions: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Mince the red onion and cilantro.

Dice the red and green peppers.

Dice the tomatoes.

Drain the pineapple.

Chop the pineapple.

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.

Get Creative:

- Make a double batch for a party!

- Use to top nachos, tacos, or burritos.

- Bake chicken or salmon topped with salsa for a tropical main dish.

- Add diced fresh mango for a flavor sensation!

1 can of organic black beans 1/2 C maple syrup* 1/4 C coconut oil 2 tsp vanilla extract 2 tbsp cocoa powder 1/2 C rolled oats 1/4 tsp salt 1/2 tsp baking powder 1/2 C chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

2. Blend the oats in a food processor until broken down into a crumb-like texture.

3. Rinse the black beans in a colander until the water runs clear.

4. Add the beans to the oats and pulse 2-3 times.

5. Add the coconut oil and all other ingredients except the chocolate chips.

6. Process until a thick, mostly smooth batter has formed.

7. Remove the bowl from the processor and fold in the chocolate chips.

8. Coat the pan with non-stick spray.

9. Turn out the batter into the pan and smooth with a spoon.* 10. For even more amazing texture, allow the batter to sit for 10 minutes.

11. Bake for 15-18 minutes..

12. Allow to cool 5-10 minutes. It’s hard to wait, but you can do it! *Get Creative: - Substitute all or a portion of maple syrup with honey, agave, or applesauce.

- Top brownie batter with 2-3 tbsp chopped walnuts, coconut, or more chocolate chips before baking for your own special treat!

About Molly Gutierrez:

An avid foodie, Molly believes in the healing power of food to transform our lives and empower us to write new stories for ourselves. As a Kitchen Instructor with the Gainsboro YMCA and Master Food Volunteer with Virginia Cooperative Extension, Molly shares the fun and excitement of cooking with classes for children and adults alike, with a passion for international food and discovering delicious ways to live with food allergies.

TIME TO

EXPLORE! AFTER SCHOOL WITH THE YMCA Serving over 27 schools in our region!

At the Y, we believe the values and skills learned early on are vital building blocks for life. Our new enrichment curriculum provides children with the opportunity to explore their unique talents and interests, helping them realize their potential.

Enroll by June 15 to save $10 on registration!

Learn more: www.ymcavbr.org/afterschool Family/June 201927

June 20 is World Refugee Day Support refugees

&support CCC

Each shirt purchased helps CCC to continue serving and supporting refugees as we have done for 40 years!

Only $

25!

See all colors, sizes, and styles at cccofva.org/brothersandsisters.

Commonwealth Catholic Charities’ Refugee Resettlement Program helps those who have been forced by war, persecution, and violence to leave their homes, their livelihood, and often, even their families in search of safety. We help refugees rebuild their lives and gain stability, equipping them with skills, resources, and guidance as they start over.

Learn more at cccofva.org.

“We have plenty of storage at home.”

-said no family ever

Privacy • 100 %Climate Controlled • Security

Plantation Road & Dale Avenue locations

storeparkside.com

28

Family/June 2019

family wellness

First Aid What to Have In your kit

by Jamie Lober

W

hen it comes to emergency preparedness, first aid is key. “Accidents and emergencies can happen at home, in the workplace, and out in your community,” said Jonathan McNamara, communications director for the American Red Cross of Virginia. The best way to get started is to get a special kit together that has all of the essentials, and have it easily accessible and readily available to you and your family. “For your homemade first aid kit, you need non-latex — preferably nitrile — gloves to prevent body fluid contact, assorted sizes of self-adhesive bandages, sterile gauze and adhesive tape to cover and protect open wounds, triple antibiotic ointment to help prevent infection, and a breathing barrier to prevent disease transmission while giving rescue breaths.” If you don’t have all of these items, it’s worthwhile to pick them up at a drugstore. “Other

“

The first aid kit should offer you peace of mind, knowing you are able to prevent a small injury from becoming a bigger injury and that you can deal with the problem without having to wait for a first responder.When you have all your tools and best defenses in one place and don’t have to search for them in a time of need,you make things easier for yourself and guide your family to better health and safety.

items to include,” McNamara said, “are low-dose, chewable aspirin for chest pain, tweezers to remove splinters or ticks, an instant-cool compress to control swelling, scissors to cut tape, cloth or bandages, and an emergency blanket to prevent heat

”

Family Family /June 2019 /June 201929

family wellness loss and to treat for shock.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that in addition to the first aid kit, your home emergency kit should include a flashlight with extra batteries, a portable charger for your phone, a battery-powered or crank radio, and copies of important documents like insurance cards and immunization records. You want to consider every family member’s needs individually,

and for those who require medications or medical supplies, have at least a three-day supply on hand. If you have a pet, you should have about a gallon of water and food for him, too, as well as a sturdy leash and carrier, so he can be safe. It can also help to have a photo and description of your pet in case she gets lost in an emergency. If you are planning travel, you may want to add sunscreen and insect repellent to your kit, as well as medicines to treat diarrhea, pain, fever, and motion sickness, just in case.

It’s always better to be on the safe side.

You want to keep your first aid kit in an accessible location, but not somewhere easy for your kids to get into it. “Make sure you have a first aid kit in the garage, basement, or work area, and in your vehicle.

Take one along for trips and outings, sporting events, camping, and hikes,” said McNamara. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the kit that stays in your vehicle should include pliers, a wrench, and

Do you have room in your heart and your home?

BECOME A FOSTER PARENT

540-853-2408

Kristin Rickman, Roanoke City kristin.rickman@roanokeva.gov

STARS is a collaboration between Roanoke City and Roanoke County/Salem Departments of Social Services and Youth Advocate Programs. We provide ongoing support and training for foster families providing care to children with higher medical, emotional and behavioral needs, including: 24/7 on-call support from YAP

Respite services

Access to Licensed Professional Counselor for foster parents

Individualized services and training to meet to family and child's needs

Seasonal celebrations and recognition

Monthly support group meetings

ion t a n i est d r ty u r a p "Yo ing g!" h t y r e in for ev this Spr 30

Family/June 2019

540-283-8844

Ben Jones, Roanoke County bsjones@roanokecountyva.gov

s, ation r b e l e orts c d gifts, p s , s tal ize e ren , custom i v o rties oor m Outd school pa f . end o and more 00 y, cand 25-82 3

7 415 (540t.,)Salem, VAg2inia.com

r ado S timesvi r o l o S. C ww.fun 1409 w

a screwdriver, as well as jumper cables, in case the car will not start. Once it gets cold outside, don’t forget to have a windshield scraper and extra hats, gloves, and blankets. If you don’t end up using your kit, check on it periodically. Food, water, medicine, and batteries have expiration dates, so you want to be sure to stay current.

Remember that nobody plans on an emergency, whether it’s an unexpected illness or natural disaster. Having a kit will help you save money, because it’s cheaper to apply your own bandage than to search for a health clinic. You will also save yourself from panicking because you’ll know you’re prepared. Most of all, the first aid kit should offer you peace of mind, knowing you are able to prevent a small injury from becoming a bigger injury and that you can deal with the problem without having to wait for a first responder. When you have all your tools and best defenses in one place and don’t have to search for them in a time of need, you make things easier for yourself and guide your family to better health and safety.

Family/June 201931

family wellness

Heat-Related

Illness

by Jamie Lober

A

s the temperature and humidity rises, it becomes even more important for families to take good care of themselves. “In recent years, excessive heat has caused more deaths than all other weather events — including floods,” said Jonathan McNamara, communications director for the American Red Cross of Virginia. You have to consider that the heat puts stress on your body, which causes overheating.

Susan Herndon-Powell, of Roanoke Parks and Recreation, agreed. “When heat and hard work combine to drive body temperature up, the temperatureregulating mechanism begins to fail, leading to dangerous and sometimes deadly consequences.”

Heat cramps are common when the body is unable to replace salt lost from sweating. “This usually results in painful muscle cramps, but can be combated by drinking water mixed with electrolytes or lightly salty fluids,” said Herndon-Powell.

Stretching and massaging muscles can

“

When heat and hard work combine to drive body temperature up, the temperature-regulating mechanism begins to fail, leading to dangerous and sometimes deadly consequences.

”

help, as well. Dehydration is not unusual, now that summer is here. “This can result in weakness, fatigue, lightheadedness, irritability, and thirst, and can be corrected by drinking fluids and resting until water losses are restored,” she said.

Since dehydration takes time to develop, treating it can take a while.

Then there is heat exhaustion, which happens when someone cannot handle the heat and humidity. “This can result in weakness, extreme fatigue, wet, clammy skin, headache, loss of appetite, nausea,

32

Family/June 2019

and even collapse,” said HerndonPowell. If you notice these symptoms, immediately rest in a shaded area and drink lightly salted fluids or sports drinks.

The most serious condition of all is heat stroke, where there is a total collapse of the body’s temperature-regulating mechanisms. “This can result in hot skin, high body temperature, mental confusion, delirium, unstable gait, loss of consciousness, and convulsions, and can be fatal if not treated quickly,” HerndonPowell said.

Often, this condition is preventable.

“Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency that usually occurs when people ignore the signals of heat exhaustion,” said McNamara. You want to rapidly cool the person affected by heat stroke by immersing her in cold water and fanning her. You may also want to cover her with cold, wet towels or bags of ice until help arrives. Medical attention should be sought, since this is considered an emergency.

The good news is there are some strategies to stay safe during the heat waves. “Never leave a child or pet in a parked car, even for a few minutes, because the temperature of a car can quickly reach one hundred twenty

degrees,” said McNamara. While it may seem like common sense to stay hydrated, you should be drinking even if you’re not thirsty. Caffeine and alcohol should be avoided. Dress cool. “Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing in layers, and avoid dark colors that absorb the sun’s rays,” McNamara said. If your job forces you to be outside, take frequent breaks to drink and cool yourself off. Try to stay indoors during the hottest part of the day and avoid strenuous exercise.

Protect your skin. Remember that the sun’s rays can hit you even on cloudy days. “Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which means one that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, and reapply as indicated. Wear eye protection and a wide-brimmed hat,” said McNamara. If you have neighbors, check on them to make sure they’re doing their part to stay well during the hot months.

Be attentive and recognize that everyone is different. “The bodies of physically fit individuals start to sweat at lower body

“

Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, lightcolored clothing in layers, and avoid dark colors that absorb the sun’s rays

”

temperatures and acclimatize to heat almost twice as fast as unfit individuals,” said Herndon-Powell. General healthy lifestyle tips like maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can make a difference, as well.

Sometimes, the best defense against heat-related illness is to stay indoors.

“When outside air temperatures near body temperatures — 98.7 degrees — and humidity levels are high, the temperature and humidity conditions are generally reported by the media as being dangerous,” said Herndon-Powell. These are times you should not go outside.

If your pet is out in the warm weather, be extra cautious. “The cooling mechanisms for dogs are nowhere near as efficient as those for humans, so feeding plenty of cool fluids, and even pouring cool fluid on the underside of your pet’s body, can promote cooling,” Herndon-Powell said.

While these months pose challenges, you can still make them manageable and enjoyable.

Family/June 201933

in the neighborhood

Ursula, Flotsam, and Jetsam (Charlotte Pearl, CJ Hairston, and Abby Shelton)

The Little Mermaid

Makes a Splash on Stage!

by Kimberly Emory

T

he lobby was busy. There was a line at one table to buy tickets.

Fortunately, my name was on the will-call list at a separate table, so I stepped up, paid, and went in.

My five-year-old daughter was with me. I had contemplated having her dress up in her Ariel costume, but she was happy with what she chose to wear that day, which happened to be leggings and a pink and blue tie-dyed T-shirt. Even though there were several other girls close to her age in Ariel garb, she fit right in with the show — the crew and even the ensemble cast were wearing similarly tie-dyed T-shirts for the performance! We took our seats and waited for the show to begin.

34

Family/June 2019

Finally, Brett Roden, assistant artistic director at Roanoke Children’s Theatre, came out and welcomed everyone to the show. He thanked the sponsors who helped make the production possible and reminded everyone that the next mainstage RCT production was just weeks away, in hopes they would come enjoy another show soon.

Even though the actors were youth — ALL youth — the production was incredibly professional, entertaining, and fun for an audience of all ages. What I especially enjoyed was that the show was just over an hour long — the perfect length of time for my daughter. And, since she was already familiar with the story, she was engaged through the whole show.

Then came the telling of the story that most of us know so well. This live version of The Little Mermaid was very similar to the story we know from the Disney movie.

I wasn’t sure what to expect, because I knew this production had been put together in one week. But this is RCT, and they never fail to deliver.

I got to speak with Brett Roden afterwards to get an understanding of how this type of show works. “We have auditions for RCT in April for our fall season, and in January for the spring.

The January audition includes this show, which is ‘Kids on Stage,’ rather than a mainstage production. It’s supposed to be

educational and give youth a chance to experience theatre.” He explained that while the Kids on Stage production during spring break each year is done in a week, it actually starts much earlier. “We cast the show — all parts — from the January audition. They then get their scripts and musical numbers around March.” So while the show is put together in a week, the leads have been preparing for much longer.

Flounder (Sarah Clemmer)

Olivia Goodman, who played the lead role of Ariel, is a 15-year-old sophomore at Patrick Henry high school. In speaking with her about preparing for her role, she said they were expected to be ‘off book’ (a theatre term that means knowing all your lines and songs) by the beginning of rehearsals.

Roden went on to describe the week. “We met every day with the whole ensemble from eight thirty until noon. Then, after lunch, the leads would stay and work more on their scenes. There were theatre workshops all week, along with music, dance, and acting rehearsals for the cast.

Roden said the most challenging part of this experience was producing a fully staged production in one week. “But it’s the best part, too!” he added.

Goodman’s insider opinion was that “it was very fast-paced, but interesting. It was fun to work together so closely and create this great product.”

Great, indeed. The curtain closed to a standing ovation, and as is RCT’s tradition, the cast made their way to the lobby to be greeted by family and adoring fans.

Sound like something your kids would like to try? Goodman encourages kids to step up if they have the interest. “You don’t know how much you’ll like it until you try it. Step up, don’t stand in fear! I’ve been

a part of the RCT family for ten years now, and I love it!” She also said she loves Kids on Stage because it’s funded by a grant and is meant to be an educational experience for kids without the worry of tuition. Roden agreed that one of the best things about Kids on Stage productions is that they allow kids to get experience in theatre. “Our mainstage productions don’t have as many youth in main roles.

This production allows us to take more kids who audition and give them theatre experience.” He encourages any kids who might be interested to come to auditions in January 2020 for the next spring break Kids on Stage production, which will be Sleeping Beauty.

It's already on my calendar!

Southview Preschool Ministry of Southview United Methodist Church

3539 Peters Creek Road Roanoke, VA 24019 540-362-1767 www.svumpreschool.webs.com Visit Our FACEBOOK Page!

Ariel (Olivia Goodman)

Since 1979

Ages 2-5 2,3, and 5 day Classes

Our purpose is to provide a warm, nurturing, yet challenging atmosphere in which children can learn and develop physically, socially, emotionally, cognitively, and creatively.

Call us today to set up a tour of our school!

Family/June 201935

American as Apple . . . Seeds?

T

he American folk story of Johnny Appleseed would not have been possible without the European colonists who brought apple seeds on their early voyages to America.

Immigrants and refugees have brought many cultural flavors with them through the centuries, along with a focused spirit of accomplishing their dreams in a new world.

In the twenty-first century, the dreams remain the same with that same seed of hope for today’s refugees. “They have borne the brunt of endless wars, religious conflicts, and political upheavals,” said Art Heifetz, a volunteer with Commonwealth Catholic Charities (CCC). “They have been displaced from their homes, spending up to twenty years in refugee camps — some were born there. They go through countless interviews and exams to finally end up here.”

Heifetz knows many of these refugees’ personal stories, as he teaches weekly ESL

36

Family/June 2019

“

With more than 40 years of service to refugees, CCC is the longest running and most experienced resettlement agency in Virginia.

”

classes. “And yet, through all this, they have never lost hope and are eager to begin their lives again in an unfamiliar country to learn new customs and a new language.”

CCC is the only refugee resettlement agency in Roanoke that welcomes refugees. “Our resettlement efforts include the initial housing placement, case management, school enrollment and follow-up, health and language support, and education and employment services,” said Amar Bhattarai, CCC Director of Resettlement Services.

After a recent naturalization ceremony, a CCC client exclaimed, “Finally, I get to become a US citizen. I’m so proud, and I love America. I promise to give as much as possible from my power to build and improve this wonderful country. God bless the United States of America!”

On a similar praiseworthy note, Heifetz added, “I salute all those who make

their way to our shores and add to the colorful mix that is present-day America.

They merit our admiration.”

World Refugee Day, on June 20, is a reminder of the hardships endured by those who have had to leave their home country. In recognition of this day, CCC is asking for the community’s support.

You can purchase T-shirts that bring greater awareness of those who stand with refugees, as well as provide a financial donation to the organization’s refugee resettlement program. More information on the shirts can be found at www.cccofva.org/brothersandsisters.

About Commonwealth Catholic Charities With more than 40 years of service to refugees, CCC is the longest running and most experienced resettlement agency in Virginia. The mission of Commonwealth Catholic Charities is to provide quality, compassionate human services to all people, especially the most vulnerable, regardless of faith. We envision a world

where poverty is alleviated, people of all races and faiths are treated with respect, and all are inspired to serve.

Commonwealth Catholic Charities is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to alleviating human suffering and restoring hope, dignity, and opportunities to Virginia’s residents since 1923.

Th

Refugee Resettlement in Virginia munity! com he t in ees g u f u, Roanoke, for supporting re k yo an

W

orld-wide there are an estimated 69 million refugees and displaced persons. Parents and children; old and young people who were forced by war, persecution, and violence to leave their homes, their lives, and often, even their family members in search of safety and a future.

CCC’s Resettlement Program helps these individuals to rebuild their lives and gain stability, equipping them with the skills, resources, and guidance they need to begin their new lives in the United States.

27 From 2013 to 2018, CCC resettled people from 27 countries. Eighty percent originated from Afghanistan, Democratic Republic of Congo, Iraq, Bhutan, and Somalia.

32% Of the refugees who arrived in Virginia between 2013 and 2018, 32% were preschool and school-aged children.

50% CCC is one of two resettlement agencies in Richmond and Central Virginia and has been helping refugees since 1975.

3,550 Between 2013 and 2018, CCC resettled 3,550 individuals in Virginia.

21,000 In over 40 years of helping refugees, CCC has settled more than 21,000 people.

Family/June 201937

family travel

Ready for the Ultimate

Summer Fun?

by Jacqueline Moon

T

hree hours away from Roanoke, there’s a world of summer fun waiting for your family.

How long has it been since you visited Kings Dominion? Is the first image that pops into your mind that of a thrilling, twisting roller coaster? Good! Because it’s got plenty of those (The newest is Twisted Timbers, a steel-wood hybrid with a staggering 20 airtime hills and a 100-plus foot barrel-roll drop)! But that’s definitely not all you’ll find there. Besides what you’ve come to know and love about the park, they’ve got two brand-new experiences for 2019!

One of those experiences is Grand Carnivale: a festival celebrating the sights, sounds, and tastes of cultures from around the world. The party rages every day from 5 p.m. until the park closes, June 15 to July 7, and includes games, crafts, food and drink, live music, amazing entertainment, and an interactive light parade.

Then, there’s Monster Jam Thunder Alley.

If you’ve ever wanted to see what it’s like to be a monster truck driver, now is your chance! From July 20 to Sept. 2, you can

38

Family/June 2019

get up close and interact with your favorite Monster Jam superstars, like Grave Digger, El Toro Loco, Zombie, Megalodon, and Max-D. There will even be 10-passenger Grave Digger and Megalodon trucks that you can ride in as they roar down an obstacle-laden track!

Let the littles check out the Monster Jam Pit Stop play area, and work together to build your own wooden mini-truck at the Monster Jam Build-a-Truck station. Monster Jam Thunder Alley is free with your Kings Dominion admission — and you can also upgrade to the VIP package and get some special perks.

And don’t forget that Kings Dominion also includes a huge water park! Soak City has opened for the season, and contains enough excitement to last an entire day.

Ten water slides (five of which boast maximum thrill ratings!), two wave pools, a water-powered playhouse, and a water playground for the littlest kids make for a perfect way to spend a hot summer day.

If you don’t already have a 2019 Season Pass, go grab one

today! With the Silver pass, you can visit Kings Dominion and Soak City as many times as you want until Labor Day for just $86, and with the Gold, you can go any day it’s open all year, and get food discounts, early ride times, and more!

Get more information on the rides, attractions, new experiences, and passes at kingsdominion.com.

growing up: teens

What s e do

by Susan Baldani

T

o v

eenagers can get so caught up in school, friendships, social media, and everyday responsibilities that they can sometimes forget about the broader world around them. The arrival of summer vacation brings more freedom to explore new interests and is therefore a good time to get them involved in some new and worthwhile opportunities.

One way for teens to do this is through volunteering, which has been shown to increase self-esteem, help them gain understanding of issues impacting their communities, and give them personal satisfaction. To make it more meaningful, encourage them to choose a cause they feel is important.

For example, if your teen loves animals, many animal shelters need people to walk and play with the dogs, clean the cat cages, and provide companionship and love to these homeless pets. Or, if your teen likes being around older people, nursing homes are often looking for volunteers to play games, read, or just spend time with their seniors. Churches and other religious

e t n u l

g n i er

do to a teen?

organizations are also always looking for help with fundraisers, serving meals to the poor, and various other outreach activities.

Universities also expect students to have experience with volunteering. New York Times freelance contributor Julie Weed wrote recently that volunteering gives your child an advantage when it comes to college admissions. “Most students who apply to college these days list volunteer experience on their application,” said Paul Seegert, associate director in the admissions office at the University of Washington. “The students who stand out are ones who have taken on leadership roles, shown a long-term commitment to service, or brought innovation or creative solutions to their work.”

Of course, having an edge when it comes to getting into a university is a great additional benefit, but if a teen is only volunteering because it will look good on his or her college application, it won’t be as heartfelt or impactful in their lives. So, be sure your teen picks something he or she is genuinely interested in.

“Volunteering is especially beneficial to low-income teens,” Weed wrote.

“According to a 2007 federal study, disadvantaged teens who volunteer feel empowered and are more likely to become politically engaged and to believe they will graduate from college and make a difference in their communities.”

Volunteering has many other rewards, as well. It can help teens learn about the world outside of their own environment by enabling them to come into contact with people they may not normally interact with, such as those from different backgrounds or cultures. It can even lead to a desire to travel and explore new places.

In addition, it can also help teens improve their social skills and form meaningful friendships based on shared goals and commitments. They can also acquire skills that will serve them well in the future, such as planning, organizing, and customer service.

Volunteering can allow teens to try out Family/June 201939

growing up: teens different careers and help them decide what they want to do in the future.

For example, if they are interested in medicine, they can join a local ambulance squad or volunteer at a hospital to see if it’s something that may be right for them. Or, it may make them realize they need to pick another career, without wasting years and money on an academic path that isn’t right for them.

Volunteering is also something wonderful that families can do together.

Working for a common goal is a great way to do something good for your community while strengthening family bonds and making memories. Your children may not remember that trip to an amusement park, but you can bet they’ll remember someone thanking them for providing some muchneeded assistance.

40

Family/June 2019

Finding places to volunteer in your area is fairly easy since there are so many worthwhile causes out there. While some require a volunteer to be at least 18, many others do not.

One site, volunteermatch.org, can help teens find a cause that’s right for them, like taking part in a fundraiser for Goodwill or tutoring a child at Presbyterian Community Center.

Another good resource is roanokecountyva.gov. There, you’ll find opportunities with fire and rescue departments (which have junior members) and parks, which need help keeping the areas beautiful for visitors, as well as many more organizations.

Open up a new world for your teens by encouraging them to volunteer their time to help others. It may turn out to be one of the greatest gifts you’ll ever give them.

Celebrating 25 YEARS

IN THE ROANOKE VALLEY

$5 OFF Any purchase Expires June 30

Valid only at Roanoke - Electric road and Christiansburg locations.

Coupon can not be copied and has no cash value.

4092 Electric Road, Roanoke 360 Arbor Drive, Christiansburg

Family/June 201941

85% of a child’s core brain structure forms before the age of 5,* yet we invest only 4% in early education.

It doesn’t add up.

85% of a child’s core brain structure forms before the age of 5,* yet we invest only 4% in early education.

The first 5 years of life represent the single greatest chance we have to impact a child’s future. Yet we spend the least on our children when they need it most.

Investments in early childhood development help reduce teen pregnancies, improve dropout rates, lower crime, and produce a stronger, more productive future workforce.

United Way of Roanoke Valley

It doesn’t

42

Family/June 2019

Our children are worth the investment. Help make sure our community makes early childhood development a priority.

*Source: Child and Family Policy Center & Voices for America’s Children, Early Learning Left Out: An Examination of Public Investments in Education and Development by Child Age, 2004

The first 5 years of life represent the single greatest chance we For more information, Beginnings have to impact aplease child’s contact: future. YetSmart we spend the leastGreater on our Roanoke sbroanoke@uwrv.org children when they| (540) need it283-2781 the most.| smartbeginningsroanoke.org Investments in early childhood development help reduce teen pregnancies, improve dropout rates, lower crime, and produce a stronger, more productive future workforce.

in the neighborhood

S

pecial ed teachers, across the board, just don’t get the props they deserve. You want to talk about hard work, dedication, selflessness, creativity, patience, and ingenuity? That’s what defines educators in the special ed classrooms of the Roanoke Valley and throughout the country.

The GRAND Home Furnishings educator of the month is Alisa Downey, a fourth- and fifth-grade special ed teacher at Oak Grove Elementary in Roanoke County.

Alisa’s classroom is different from any other at Oak Grove; instead of glaring, fluorescent overhead lights, the room is illuminated warmly with lamplight. She has painted parts of the room in pleasing colors, decorated it to be a more inviting space, and installed kick bands on the chairs for fidgety feet. “I want the kids to want to come to me,” she explained.

“I want them to know that this is a good, calm place where we come to accomplish our goals together.”

Alisa has been teaching special education for 14 years. These are the students, she said, who are often overlooked and underserved, and so she knew the special ed classroom was where she wanted to be.

“I love those kids and being able to show them that someone cares about them, someone’s on their side. I love figuring out how we, in the education system, can meet each of them where they are.”

Working with children has been Alisa’s

I

Educator of the Month

Alisa Downey

focus since college. She majored in youth ministry, and later got her master’s in special education. “It’s amazing to help the kids see that they can do hard things, they can be successful. Everyone has different strengths and weaknesses, and there is beauty in everyone.” Guiding her students to that realization, she said, is what she loves most about the job.

“Kids will start off the year complaining that they can’t do the work, that it’s too hard — then, in a couple weeks, they’ll catch themselves and start to say, ‘I know, Mrs. Downey, I can do hard things.” We all do hard things every day, Alisa said, even as adults. We can do those things; we just have to know it’s okay to fight through it and not give up. “Working hard and overcoming obstacles makes us stronger people. It gives us confidence. And it’s the same for these kids.”

For her students, those hard things might be figuring out how to process or verbalize their emotions, or to do a math problem, or to read certain words. Alisa is there to help them work through it. “I am their champion,” she said.

The most rewarding part of being a special ed teacher, said Alisa, is the relationships formed with her students. “I love coming to school every day and giving them big, fat hugs. I love hearing about their lives, laughing with them, crying with them, being silly with them, working hard with them.” They’re her kids, she said, more than just her students.

What did you want to be when you were a kid? An architect!

I loved drawing floorplans for fun.

What would your students be surprised to know about you? I played saxophone when I was a kid.

What’s your favorite kind of music? Jazz! I’m always listening to the Bebop Jazz station on Pandora.

What book are you reading right now? I’m in the middle of The Death of Mrs. Westaway,

by Ruth Ware. I like mysteries!

is proud to sponsor the

TEACHER MONTH of the

The winning teacher receives a $100 gift card from Grand Home Furnishings!

www.grandhomefurnishings.com Valley View | Tanglewood | Christiansburg | Lynchburg Family/June 201943

education matters

Rachel’s Reads

June is National Safety Month, and a great opportunity to talk about safety with our kids! Keeping our children safe is our number one priority as parents, but having the required discussions can seem overwhelming, awkward, and scary. Thankfully, there are some great books to help us get the conversations started. Find I Said NO! in our Little Libraries this month!

Miles is the Boss of His Body

by Samantha Kurtzman-Counter and Abbie Schiller There have been a lot of discussions recently about respecting the right of children to set boundaries about being hugged, tickled, etc. Teaching kids that their bodies belong to them helps give children the words to talk about situations that make them uncomfortable.

Miles is the Boss of His Body jumps into this issue head-on. Miles’ family keeps patting him on the head, tickling him, and pinching his cheeks. They are acting out of affection, but Miles doesn’t like it. He eventually tells his family how he is feeling, and they come up with alternatives that respect Miles’ boundaries and wishes.

I Said NO!

by Zach and Kimberly King What should a child do if he’s in a situation that makes him uncomfortable? I Said NO! by Zach and Kimberly King gives kids tools for how to handle “red flag” situations. Zach King unfortunately had a scary experience at a sleepover.

That experience inspired him and his mother to write I Said NO! to help other kids. They talk through specific manipulations abusers often use with kids, fact check them, and show kids how to respond. This one-of-a-kind book gives kids actual concrete and practical advice to help them stay safe and know how to get help if something goes wrong. It is a must-read for families.

44

Family/June 2019

No Dragons for Tea

by Jean Pendziwol No Dragons for Tea is the charming tale of a girl who invites her new dragon friend over for a tea party. It turns out that dragons make dangerous houseguests, and her new friend accidentally starts a fire. The girl confidently follows fire-safety guidelines to get herself and the dragon out of the house. Together, they decide to be safe and have playdates at the beach in the future! The book ends with a helpful checklist of fire-safety topics to discuss further with your family.

On the Internet

by Dr. Jillian Roberts Talking to our kids about internet safety is new territory for most parents. The brand new book On the Internet gives families a place to begin. It explains in kid-friendly ways about how some people put inappropriate or unkind things online, and how to talk to a grown-up if they see something that makes them uncomfortable.

Officer Buckle and Gloria

by Peggy Rathmann The Caldecott Award-winning book Officer Buckle and Gloria by Peggy Rathmann is beloved by kids and adults alike. Officer Buckle travels to schools to teach students safety rules, but no one pays any attention to him until he gets a dog named Gloria. Gloria turns the program around and gets kids excited about safety — until Officer Buckle’s pride is hurt and it all falls apart. Thankfully, safety and friendship win in the end in this sweet and funny story.

Family/June 201945

just for fun

Experiment:

Green Pennies?

Supplies:

Directions:

• A few dull or old pennies (pre-1983 works best) • 1/4 cup white vinegar • 1 tsp salt • Non-metal bowl or cup • Paper towel

1. Mix the salt and vinegar in the bowl.

2. Add the pennies to the mixture and leave them in for at least 10 seconds.

3. Pull the pennies out. What do you notice?

4. Place the pennies on a paper towel and leave them overnight.

5. Check your pennies in an hour, after two hours, and in the morning. What has happened? Try flipping your pennies over and looking at the paper towel beneath them. Is it green?

Presented by:

Physicians To Women QP

46

Family/June 2019

Try this:

What’s happening:

Try rinsing the pennies off before placing them on the paper towel to dry. Do they turn green if you rinse them?

“

This is the same reaction that happened to the Statue of Liberty — when it was first built, the monument was covered in copper, but it turned green over time.

There is some very cool chemistry happening here. Pennies are coated in copper, and when copper mixes with oxygen in air, it becomes copper oxide.

Copper oxide is what makes pennies look dull. When we mixed the pennies in the salt and vinegar, the copper oxide dissolved — copper oxide dissolves in acid, and vinegar is an acid. The salt helps make this happen even faster.

When we left the pennies to dry, the copper reacted with air and salt to create malachite, which has a green color. This is the same reaction that happened to the Statue of Liberty — when it was first built, the monument was covered in copper, but it turned green over time.

So why did we need to use pre-1983 pennies? Pennies made in 1982 or earlier have more copper than newer pennies, and so this reaction works better with older pennies.

” Schedule Your Summer Sports

Physical Today!

Call (540) 344-9213 for information about Sports Physicals at our Roanoke and Westlake locations

Learn about our services & providers at physicianstochildren.com Family/June 201947

family wellness

Live with Less

to Live Life More Fully

by Kimberly Blaker

W

e’ve been hearing this mantra for years. While it’s a very worthy ideal indeed, it’s often easier said than done. That’s in part because we derive a degree of pleasure from at least some of our stuff — even though sometimes that pleasure stems from our own materialism. This can be difficult to escape when we live in a society that embraces material things as a symbol of status. All too often, though, our material possessions become entangled with our own sense of self-worth.

Another big problem is that, over time, the accumulation of things erodes the joy, pleasure, and fulfillment we get out of life.

Stuff tends to multiply and requires more and more living space. In turn, we upsize, and because we have more living space, we continue to accumulate. This cycle persists until one day, you wake up, and what you’ve subconsciously known all along finally hits you. It’s the sad realization that you no longer have a life — and probably haven’t had one for a long time. Instead, your home and belongings have become your life, and they own you.

Possessions eat up precious time, energy, and money you could spend on doing the things you love. The more you have, the more time

48

Family/June 2019

“

Possessions eat up precious time, energy, and money you could spend on doing the things you love.

”

and money it takes to clean, organize, and maintain your stuff and your home. In fact, having all that stuff means you likely have a larger home just to accommodate it, and that also costs you more time and money to clean and maintain.

If you live with less, you can enjoy more of the things that bring you real happiness and fulfillment. That might be going to more plays, concerts, or sporting events, traveling, pursuing hobbies, focusing on physical fitness, volunteering, spending time

with family and friends, or any number of activities.

The question is, how do you go about reclaiming your life? For some, experiencing this awareness is a no-brainer. They quickly come up with a plan and immediately move forward to implement it.

But for most of us, it’s a longer and more difficult process. We often feel tied to our possessions and current lifestyle for a multitude of reasons, even if they don’t serve us well. Fortunately, there are ways to ease into the transition.

How to reach your end-goal First, create a budget and account for everything you spend money on, and don’t forget all the maintenance costs. Next, make a list of the amount of time you spend shopping, cleaning, organizing, and maintaining your possessions, including your home. Now add a second column to each of these lists, and note the amount of time or money you can save by living with less stuff and a smaller home. Last, make a list of the things you could do with the extra time and cash that would bring more joy to your life.

Local charities that take donations of household and personal goods: MATTHEW’S CHILD — supporting, advocating, educating, and enhancing the foster and adoptive community. They accept donations of supplies, clothing, toys, and other items for their programs. Learn more at matthewschild.com or by calling 540-523-1580.

COMMONWEALTH CATHOLIC CHARITIES — providing quality, compassionate human services to all people, especially the most vulnerable. They accept donations of clothing, bikes, furniture, housewares, musical instruments, and more. Learn more at cccofva.org or by calling 540-342-0411.

GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF THE VALLEYS — dedicated to helping people with disabilities and disadvantages overcome barriers to employment. They accept donations of clothing, accessories, shoes, toys, books, dishware, and more. For locations and more information, go to goodwillvalleys.com or call 540-581-0620.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY — eliminating substandard housing locally and worldwide through constructing, rehabilitating, and preserving homes.

They accept donations of electronics, appliances, furniture, lawn equipment, and other items. Learn more at habitat-roanoke.org or by calling 540-344-0747.

Now, set a goal to eliminate a certain number of possessions on a daily or weekly basis. Once you begin, if you have the sudden urge to purge more, go for it. But use that goal to keep yourself moving forward.

Also, decide the best methods for disposing of items so you’ll feel good about it and stay motivated. If you could use the extra cash, box things up for a garage sale or sell them online. You might also rehome some of your items with family and friends. Maybe donating your goods to a particular charity or family in need will make you feel better about parting with your possessions.

Once you begin purging, work room by room. That way, you can keep track of what you’ve already done. You’ll also be able to see your progress sooner and experience how good it feels to have a room that no longer owns your life.

After you’ve gone through your entire home (including the yard, shed, and garage), make another round. By this point, you’ve developed the knack for purging, so you’ll likely find many more items you’re now comfortable eliminating.

As you sort through your belongings, ask yourself why you’re keeping each item.

If you’re storing it ‘just in case,’ haven’t used it in a year or more, wouldn’t buy it now, it doesn’t hold sentimental value, and it doesn’t bring you happiness, in all likelihood, you should get rid of it.

Finally, once you’ve successfully freed up a ton of space in your home, consider your next step. You’ll likely realize you don’t need so much space. Consider moving into a smaller home or apartment to save more time, energy, and costs — so you can enjoy your newfound freedom and start living your life to its fullest.

“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

Family/June 201949

education matters

Taking the Path

by Jacqueline Moon

T

to Resilience

here are critical issues around us that we, as a society, want desperately to fix: homelessness, domestic abuse, drug dependency, incarceration, disease, depression and other mental illness, poverty. They’re huge issues — overwhelming, even. How do we heal such massive wounds?

It can’t be a quick and easy task, of course; none of us would expect it to be.

But it isn’t impossible, either. The key is hidden not in the suffering itself, but in the roots of the suffering. The problems our society faces are effects. The causes find their roots in childhood trauma.

Resiliency Collective exists to take action in the lives of Roanoke’s young people who have experienced or are experiencing trauma. They know that addressing these issues while individuals are young helps prevent serious problems down the road. Since 2017, the Collective has been educating people about the effects of traumatic childhood events and the importance of building resilience.

The Collective describes traumatic events as a pair of ACEs: adverse childhood experiences and adverse

50

Family/June 2019

“

Resilience — being able to bounce back from difficult situations — is a powerful tool kids (and all of us) should have at our disposal. yman’s terms.

”

community environments. Growing up in a household where there is emotional abuse, for instance, is childhood trauma, as is not having enough food to eat, being discriminated against, and being neglected.

Resilience — being able to bounce back from difficult situations — is a powerful tool kids (and all of us) should have at our disposal. Harvard University’s Center on the Developing Child has studied resilience and describes it like this: “One way to understand the development of resilience is to visualize a balance scale or seesaw. Protective experiences and coping skills on one side counterbalance significant adversity on the other.

Resilience is evident when a child’s health and development tips toward positive outcomes — even when a heavy load of factors is stacked on the negative outcome side.” Protective factors include things like having caring friends, living in a safe neighborhood, and having good connections to caring adults.

Using the results of their trauma and resiliency needs assessment, Resiliency Collective has developed “Path to Resilience” toolkits — one for local organizations that deal directly with kids,

like United Way of Roanoke Valley and Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare, and one for members of the community, with actionable ideas presented in layman’s terms. These toolkits provide information about exactly how to instill resilience in kids and build resilience up in ourselves and others.

Because the idea of resilience in the face of trauma has not yet been widely discussed, many people aren’t aware of its power or importance. The goal of the Collective is to educate the community on why it’s important and how to build it.

That’s why, this month, Resiliency Collective is kicking off Roanoke Valley Family’s all-new series of Family Talks!

We invite all of our readers (and hope you invite your friends and family) to the Grandin CoLab on June 25 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. We’ll have snacks, a fun activity, door prizes, and lots of great information presented by Resiliency Collective.

Over time, resilient people lead to a stronger community. We are excited about Resiliency Collective’s work and the future of Roanoke because of it. We hope you come out on June 25 and learn more with us!

resilience

re·sil·ience noun 1. the ability to bounce back from tough times.

Helping others – builds resilience

Learn more at

ResilientRoanoke.org Roanoke Prevention Alliance

#ResilientRoanoke Family/June 201951

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: 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 CHIP Roanoke - 1201 3rd Street SW - Roanoke, VA 24016

Roanoke Adventist Christian School, formerly known as Roanoke Adventist Preparatory School, has been offering quality Christian education at family friendly prices in the Roanoke area for 80 years. Our school is a small classroom environment where students receive grade-level appropriate individualized instruction.

Our school is fully accredited. Specific learning standards by grade level may be found by visiting: adventisteducation.org/ curriculum

Roanoke Adventist Christian School Fosters Academic Excellence • Passionate Spirituality • Outstanding Character In Each Student Roanoke Adventist Christian School has been offering quality Christian education at family friendly prices in the Roanoke area for over 80 years.

Registration fees are $340 until May 31. After June 1, the registration fee will increase to $390. A $50 charge for transfer students is also required.

Schedule a FREE Educational Success Consultation or a Kindergarten Readiness Evaluation These free consultations focus on goals for your child, academic preparation and readiness and planning for future choices. These consultations will also help us, should you choose our school, to better serve your child.

Our school offers tuition rates that are highly competitive and scholarship opportunities are available. All financial aid applications are processed on a first-come basis so early applications are encouraged.

Call us at 540-798-6061 or email RoanokeAdventistPrep@gmail.com to set an appointment

your sight is our vision Vistar doctors have the passion and training to provide you the highest quality healthcare for your eyes.

Trust Vistar Eye Center.

53 Family/ VistarEye.com | 540.855.5100 June 2019

growing up: teens

Fear Not —

it’s Forensics!

by Grace Partin

T

his was my first year attending Patrick Henry high school, and being a freshman is anything but easy. Adjusting to the block scheduling proved difficult, but there was still more that needed to be handled. High school offered a much larger environment, and it wasn’t challenging to get lost in the crowds. The hallways were far bigger than what I was used to, and there were more floors and classrooms.

During this time of transition in a person’s life, I believe it is important to surround

54

Family/June 2019

oneself with many more experienced peers, and ones in similar situations.

High school is much easier to navigate if one has a friend group and if one joins extracurricular programs. One such program is the Patrick Henry Forensics team.

I joined Forensics initially because my father wanted me to become more active in the school environment. He encouraged me to try something new, and he had experience with high school forensics.

After I had learned more about the team through the informational and interest

meeting, I was excited to join. I went home with a small excerpt of a script to begin practicing for my tryout.

Now, to most people, the term “forensics” means forensic scientists like in CSI. This couldn’t be further from the case for the Forensics team. Unfortunately, high school forensics isn’t cutting open cadavers and solving crimes based on samples from the soil around a crime scene. That certainly sounds more fun, and if Patrick Henry had such a team, I would be eager to join it, as well.

However, competing in forensics involves skill, practice, planning, and the king of all fears — public speaking. Most people are afraid of public speaking, and they have good reason to be. Speaking in front of people who are going to be judging you based on your performance, is no easy feat.

This is exactly what high school forensics is, and too me, was a way to become more confident when talking to others.

When a student is competing in forensics or has joined a forensics team, he or she is placed into a category. Speech and interpretation are the two biggest ones, and within them there are sub-categories.

I can’t speak much for the speech kids, but what I do know is that it can be exceedingly challenging. Most of the sub-categories in speech have to do with background knowledge of multiple topics, presenting facts on notecards, and writing speeches to be presented in ten minutes or less.

Interpretation is more about interpreting pieces, and doing so in many different ways. There are various categories you can choose from, and different school systems have different categories. My category this year was humorous duo, and my partner and I went on to the state championship in Richmond.

When you are presenting your piece in dramatic interpretation (humorous,

group. An example of a prop would be if the character in your piece were to look at a watch and you looked down at your own watch. This counts as propping, as you used the watch to enhance your piece.

In duo pieces, even your partner can be considered a prop. This is why in duo pieces, you are not permitted to look at or touch your partner. Fixing clothing articles and touching hair can also be considered propping.

serious, serious duo, humorous duo, etc.), you are being judged on how you “pop” in and out of characters, how you show emotions, how you stay within a limited amount of space, how you stay within the time limit of ten minutes, how you portray the piece in a way that can be easily understood, and how you avoid propping. Propping, to my understanding, involves using props in your piece. This is strictly outlawed within tournaments and can lead to the disqualification of a

Regardless of how scary and daunting the rules and regulations may seem, once you begin enhancing and presenting your selected piece or topic, forensics is really exciting. I will never forget my first competition, where my partner and I haphazardly fumbled through our piece, trying desperately to get a laugh out of the audience. Afterwards, we were able to truly see how much fun forensics was, and continued to improve and grow within our supportive team. I have made numerous friends within my team, and I hope to make many more in the years to come. Public speaking used to terrify me, but after one year on the team, I am already feeling more and more confident in my speaking abilities. Forensics is amazing, and I encourage all rising ninth graders to try out for the team at their schools.

Family/June 201955

JUNE THINGS TO DO

BY THE DAY: JUNE EVENTS FROM THE 1ST TO THE 30TH

Battle alongside fellow Moms and their sons in this interactive scavenger hunt through Grandin Village and Downtown Roanoke! Don't worry - real super heroes will be on site to help you ou and your team out!

TICKETS - $32 Includes One Mother and One Son www.roanoke.family 540-251-1660 56

Family/June 2019

BEST

OF THE MONTH

6/1 – 7/13: FREE!

A PETER RABBIT TALE: A CHILDREN’S MUSICAL BEATRIX POTTER’S CLASSIC STORY

JUNE 14

millmountain.org – visit website for showtimes and locations

ROYAL BALL 2019 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. at the Taubman Museum of Art virginiafamily.com The premier Father-Daughter Dance in the area! Music, dancing, contests, and of course, princesses! Light snacks will be served.

A Peter Rabbit Tale comes to life in this spirited children’s musical touring the Roanoke Valley this summer. Peter Rabbit has begun to believe that being a rabbit isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Mill Mountain Theatre 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 our initiative connecting theatre to literacy.

Each month, we will be co-hosting themed community discussions at the CoLab featuring topics that matter to Roanoke Valley families.

Plus . . . door prizes, snacks, and activities!

JUNE 25th • Co-Lab • 6PM-7:30PM

June Topic: Bouncing Back: How Resilience is the Key to Stronger Communities, Melanie Morris of the Roanoke Prevention Alliance will lead a discussion about what it means to be resilient. Come learn more with us at the Family Talk!

FREE EVENT

Family/June 201957

things to do

JUNE 1 KIDS MAKE ART FREE!

total brain, all while having fun working on a project with their parents, guardians, and peers. Local artist and educator Polly Branch designs and leads educational activities to bring you and your family together.

Registration not required.

THE MUSIC OF THE ‘60S 7:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. at the Mill Mountain Theatre Trinkle Main Stage millmountain.org 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. at the Eleanor D. Wilson Museum, Hollins University hollins.edu/museum 540-362-6532 Here’s an opportunity for the whole family to connect with an art museum and respond creatively! With hands-on participation, children of all ages can enhance their observation skills and use their

58

Family/June 2019

Twist and shimmy your way to Mill Mountain Theatre with the catchiest songs from one of the most revolutionary decades in music — the ‘60s! With your favorites from chart-toppers like The Beatles, The Supremes, and Aretha Franklin, we invite you slip on a pair of bell bottoms and dance to your favorites. R.E.S.P.E.C.T. this groovy mix of tunes as we cover the best artists from the Motown Hub to the Woodstock Craze. Tickets start at $20.

JUNE 7

FREE!

FREE!

LITTLE CRITTERS PETTING ZOO

5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at the Salem Public Library 540-375-3089

10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at the Salem Public Library 540-375-3089

SENSORY NIGHT

A special opportunity for specialneeds individuals! Enjoy the library after-hours and make as much noise as you want.

Featuring activities with BRAAC, Centra, Carilion, and ABCs of ABA.

Drop by and pet some furry friends!

JUNE 8 WILD THINGS SERIES FREE!

1 p.m. - 3 p.m. at Explore Park explorepark.org/wild 540-427-1800 An instructional program with a staff naturalist at the Explore Park Visitor Center. This month’s topic is Tiny Creatures!

FREE!

RELAY FOR LIFE SALEM’S LEG 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. at the Salem High School track salemva.gov

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life movement is the world’s largest and most impactful fundraising event to end cancer. It unites communities across the globe to celebrate people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and take action to finish the fight once and for all.

JUNE 12 FREE!

TODDLER TIME 9:30 a.m. - 10 a.m. at the Salem Public Library 540-375-3089 Stories, songs, and playtime for active toddlers. For walking toddlers up to age 2.

JUNE 14 DESSERT TRUCK RODEO FREE!

5 p.m. - 7 p.m. at the Salem

Public Library 540-375-3089

KIDS-MADE MARKET

GRANDPARENTS DAY AT VMT

Live music, activities, and free samples from local dessert trucks.

10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at 3716 Colonial Ave. Roanoke

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Virginia Museum of Transportation vmt.org

THE ANIMALS

A full day of fun for the kids and their grandparents! Free entry for grandparents, plus free gifts for the first 250 kids. Ride on vintage diesel trains and more!

8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. at Mill Mountain Zoo mmzoo.org 540-343-3241

JUNE 20

JUNE 15 BREAKFAST WITH

Join Mill Mountain Zoo for a light breakfast buffet and meet one of the zoo’s education outreach animals. Followed by a special chat with zookeepers as you become amazed with more fun and educational facts about our animal residents. An intimate experience to learn more about various animals’ diets, behaviors, and personalities.

Plus, there will be a childfocused activity. Guests will Nibble with Native Species. Cost: $11-$18.

DOCTOR WHO PARTY FREE!

4 p.m. – 7 p.m. at the South County Library yourlibrary.us A farmer’s market run by local kids who will be selling their own creations, such as art, food, jewelry, gardening, music, sewing, toys, knitting, flowers, or any creative creation. All ages welcome! For more info or to register, email: mwyoung76@ gmail.com.

There will not be silence in the library tonight! Enjoy snacks and activities this time-traveling alien would dance like a giraffe over. All ages welcome. Explore different stations around the library.

LIVE MUSIC

Thursdays, 5:30-8:30pm

The Best Beach Party in the Valley!

$5 Admission, Kids Under 12 Are Free

Details at DowntownRoanoke.org! ®

Family/June 201959

things to do SALEM AFTER 5

yourlibrary.us

5:00 p.m. at the Salem Farmers’ Market 540-375-3057

Celebrate summer — and summer reading! —with the Glenvar Library. There will be food, snacks, games, and more!

This month, come out and see Cimmaron perform on the Salem Farmers’ Market stage. Gates open at 5 p.m., the music starts at 6, and all proceeds benefit HopeTree Family Services. This month’s food truck is Mountain Grille, so grab a delicious burger and enjoy the show! The Kettle Cooker Express and Salem Ice Cream Parlor will also be there.

Admission: Adults $5, children 12 and under are FREE. There will be a children’s play area set up in the Market. Coolers, outside food, drinks, rollerblades, skateboards, and pets are not allowed on the premises.

JUNE 21 ANIMAL ENRICHMENT FUN FREE!

10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Mill Mountain Zoo mmzoo.org 540-343-3241

PICKIN’ IN THE PARK

FREE!

5 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at Longwood Park www.salemva.gov An evening filled with bluegrass music at Longwood Park. Bring a chair or blanket and a picnic dinner to enjoy while listening to some of best bluegrass music in the area!

DALEVILLE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: THE WORX 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. at Daleville Town Center This popular Saturday night concert series returns to beautiful Botetourt County. The Worx band hits center stage to bring you an epic event!

Admission is $5, and children under 12 are free. Bring your friends and family and head out for a great event supporting Botetourt charities!

RIDE AND READ FREE! A lot goes into taking good care of the animals at the zoo.

Besides feeding and cleaning, keepers also need to find creative ways to entertain the zoo’s residents. This is called enrichment, and if you sign up for this class, you can help create some! Not only that, you’ll get to see the animals enjoy their enrichments at the end of the program. For ages 8-12.

JUNE 22 GLENVAR LIBRARY SUMMER READING PARTY FREE!

11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Glenvar Branch Library

60

Family/June 2019

Pleasant Branch Library yourlibrary.us

JUNE 30

STEAM activities for kids, teens, and tweens.

MONETA FIREWORX FEST

JUNE 26 WATER GAMES! FREE!

2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. at the Glenvar Branch Library yourlibrary.us May the odds be ever in your favor. Change of clothes recommended.

FREE!

CONSTELLATION CRAFTS 3:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. at the Vinton Library yourlibrary.us Know your horoscope? Fancy a look at the night sky? Join the Vinton Library to make some trendy constellation art.

JUNE 24 FULL STEAM AHEAD FREE!

2 p.m. - 4 p.m. at the Mount

An Independence Day celebration with fireworks, food, an adult beverage garden, kids’ activities, and live music

by The Worx. All proceeds benefit Moneta Volunteer Fire Department. Admission is $10; Kids 10 and under FREE.

NOW PLAYING: MOVIES AND SHOWS FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY

JUNE 29

6/1: FREE! FAMILY MOVIE: HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON: THE HIDDEN WORLD

“BAM! BEER AND MUSIC” FESTIVAL

10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at the Glenvar Branch Library yourlibrary.us

11:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. at Kiwanis Field, Salem visitsalemva.com

10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Williamson Road Library roanokeva.gov/library The Ride and Read event will feature vehicles that children can explore, including emergency vehicles, a trolley, a cherry picker, and more! This is a chance for kids of all ages to CLIMB on, SIT in, PLAY on, and HAVE FUN in the vehicles of their dreams! There will also be free face painting, a petting zoo, and a special appearance by Clifford the Big Red Dog!

6 p.m. - 10 p.m. in downtown Moneta smithmountainlake.com

6/13: FREE! MOVIES ON THE GREEN: CHRISTOPHER ROBIN 6:00 p.m. at Daleville Town Center

Parkway Brewing will take over Kiwanis Field with your favorite brews, along with a few from Olde Salem Brewing Company. There will also be live music, food, and family fun and entertainment, so be sure to stop by for an afternoon of enjoyment! Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door.

Join at the Green for a FREE Movie Night event. Bring your own chairs and lawn blankets.

Gates open at 6 p.m. Food and drink will be available for purchase. Lib’s Lab Entertainment will be on site, as will be a fun kids’ zone!

6/14: FREE! MOVIES IN THE MARKET: BUMBLEBEE 6:00 p.m. at Market Square downtownroanoke.org

Family/June 201961

things to do Enjoy FREE, family-friendly entertainment in Market Square! Bring a blanket or lawn chair and some snacks, or stop by a great downtown restaurant for something to eat. A concessionaire will also be on site.

The movie begins at dusk, with FREE kids activities beginning around 6:00 p.m.

Bumblebee is rated PG-13.

takes the audience into the minds of each character, and reminds us that nobody’s family is normal.

THE GRANDIN THEATRE SUMMER KIDS’ MATINEE SERIES

FREE!

FREE!

10:00 a.m. at The Grandin Theatre grandintheatre.com 6/14 and 6/15: The Looney Tunes — Free Kids’ Matiness Series

MULTI-DAY: ONGOING JUNE EVENTS

61ST ANNUAL SIDEWALK ART SHOW 6/1 AND 6/2 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. in downtown Roanoke taubmanmuseum.org

6/21 and 6/22: The Secret of NIMH - Free Kids’ Matinee Series

From paintings to sculptures and from photography to jewelry, the Taubman Museum of Art is pleased to present one of Virginia’s oldest and most anticipated outdoor art shows! Nearly 120 artists from across the United States will gather on the streets. Inside the museum, guests are invited to visit the galleries to enjoy the works on view. The show is free and open to the public.

This film was a classic during the ’80s, and we are sure that for a lot of you, it was one of your favorite films.

6/4 – 6/9

To start the summer, as part of the Kids’ Summer Matinee Series, The Grandin Theatre will have a special screening of the Looney Tunes cartoons!

6/28 and 6/29: Wallace & Gromit shorts Free Kids’ Matinee Series Let’s get into the world of Wallace & Gromit!

Bring your kiddos to have fun at The Grandin Theatre with the adventures of this eccentric inventor and his trusted canine friend!

75TH ANNIVERSARY OF D-DAY COMMEMORATION

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. at the National D-Day Memorial, Bedford dday.org

6:00 p.m. at the Hollins Library yourlibrary.us 540-561-8024

June 6, 2019 marks the 75th Anniversary of D-Day, a milestone that is expected to represent the last large gathering of D-Day veterans around the globe. To mark this milestone and take advantage of the opportunities for discussion and commemoration it presents, the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Virginia will observe the 75th Anniversary with six days of ceremonies, displays, interviews, and much more.

Join us each month for a fun movie and popcorn! Call or visit our website for movie details.

STROLLING INTO ART

6/18: FREE! MOVIES AND POPCORN

6/20 - 6/29: Next to Normal millmountain.org – visit website for showtimes

AT MILL MOUNTAIN THEATRE’S WALDRON STAGE Winner of the Pulitzer-Prize for Drama, this groundbreaking musical follows the Goodmans, a seemingly typical American family whose lives are anything but normal.

The contemporary and electrifying musical shares the Goodman family’s intricate battle with mental health. Abundant with love, sympathy, and heart, Next To Normal

62

Family/June 2019

FRIDAYS IN JUNE 10:30 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. at the Taubman Museum of Art taubmanmuseum.org

troutvilletraildays.org All weekend in Troutville; see website for exact locations Celebrate the local community and all the outdoor activities Botetourt County has to offer. There’s something for the entire family: local vendors, artisans, guided hikes on the Appalachian Trail, tubing trip on the river, thru-hiker support, food, music, fun, and so much more. Free camping all weekend!

CRAFTERNOON WEDNESDAYS IN JUNE

FREE! 4 p.m. – 5 p.m. at the Glenvar Branch Library yourlibrary.us Join the Glenvar Libary for a themed craft!

Ideal for ages 0 to 11.

PARTY IN ELMWOOD 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at Elmwood Park, Roanoke downtownroanoke.org 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.

Admission $5; kids under 12 are free.

6/6: Jim Quick and Coastline 6/13: The Embers ft. Craig Woolard 6/20: Too Much Sylvia 6/27: Bill Deal’s Original Rhondels

STORYBOOK SAFARI

Gather around as we sing, read, explore the galleries and play! Come every week to make new friends and introduce your little one to new sights, sounds and materials. Bring your stroller or front pack carrier. For pretoddlers (23 months and younger).

6/15: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Mill Mountain Zoo 6/20: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Mill Mountain Zoo mmzoo.org 540-343-3241

TROUTVILLE TRAIL DAYS

In this fun program for 4 to 6-year-olds, child and caregiver will get to hear an animalthemed children’s book, meet some Mill Mountain Zoo education animals, take a mini-tour of the zoo, and ride the train. $15

6/7 - 6/9

for members and $20 for non-members.

ART GONE WILD 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. at Mill Mountain Zoo mmzoo.org 540-343-3241

SUMMER CAMPS!

Does your child like animals? Does he or she also like art? Why not combine the two together?! This two-hour class will give children the opportunity to use the zoo’s residents as inspiration for fun, colorful, and unique art projects.

6/15: Art Gone Wild for ages 8-12 6/28: Art Gone Wild for ages 6-9

SALEM RED SOX 7:05 p.m. at Haley Toyota Field salemsox.com 540-389-3333

JUNE 3RD - JULY 12TH

6/13: You Can Play Day

Half Day & Full Day Offerings

OFFERINGS: Pre K - Adult

Join the Salem Red Sox for You Can Play Day as your Sox face off against the Frederick Keys in the first of a four-game series. The Sox are proud to support the You Can Play initiative, and want to help spread the word that baseball is for everyone! Make sure to head out the ballpark to meet threetime Olympic ice hockey medalist Meghan Duggan, who will be taking pictures and signing autographs for fans!

6/15: Paw Patrol Night Join the Salem Red Sox for Hero Appreciation/Paw Patrol Night as they take on the Frederick Keys! Paw Patrol characters will be there wandering the concourse. Make sure to bring your own pup, as well, as it is another Bark in the Park night! $5 pooch passes will be available at the gate.

Camps in Acting, Voice, Dance, Music Theatre, and Technical Theatre

REGISTER NOW millmountain.org/class

A Peter Rabbit Tale: A Children's Musical

Join Childcare Network For

Quality Education For Children 6 wks - 12 yrs Fresh and Healthy Meals and Snacks

Exciting Before and After School Programs Fun and Engaging Curriculum for All Ages

June 1 - July 13 FREE show touring the Roanoke Valley

6/29: Toy Night To infinity . . . and beyond! Head out to Haley Toyota Field to celebrate Toy Night with your Sox as they face off against the Winston-Salem Dash in game three of a four-game series. Woody, Buzz, Slink, and Mr. & Mrs. Potato Head will be walking the concourse as the Sox honor the 25th anniversary of Toy Story.

FREE

Performance Schedule:

millmountain.org/peter-rabbit

4225 Brambleton Ave. Roanoke, VA 24018

866-521-KIDS

www.childcarenetwork.com Family/June 201963

kids eat free

can Re a l A me r i or N i nj a Wa r r i Op e n ! w o N e s r u o C

Kids Eat Free Every Day

launchingpadsalem.com 1300 Intervale Drive Salem VA 24153

540-404-9235

fdc 64

Family/June 2019

Monday

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

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

• 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

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

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

Tuesday • Denny’s 4 PM - 10 PM • 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult All Locations Roanoke & Salem (540) 389-5074 • Macado’s 4 PM - 9 PM • 12 & under, $1 child meal per paid adult All Locations in Roanoke & Salem (540) 776-9884 • McAlister’s Deli 5 PM - Close • 2 children per paid adult 2063 Colonial Ave., Roanoke (540) 204-4407

• 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 • 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 • 10 & 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 • Tokyo Express 11 AM - 3 PM • 4 & under free buffet per paid adult 1940 W Main St., Salem (540) 389-6303 • Famous Anthony’s 12 PM - Close • 1 child per adult meal All Locations Roanoke, Salem, Vinton (540) 362-1400

Sunday • Pizza Den 5 PM - 8:30 PM • 10 & under free buffet per paid adult buffet and drink purchase Salem (540) 389-1111

• 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

Trampolines

& More!

Basketball Dodgeball Jousting Pit Fidget Ladder Airbag Pit Launch Tower Arcade with prizes Bumper cars Flight Training Wall NEW! American Ninja Warrior Course Snack Bar 5 Party Rooms

• 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 • 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 • Moe’s Southwestern Grill All Day • 1 free per paid adult All Roanoke & Blacksburg locations

Family/June 201965

R

Discover Play Inspire

A Vibrant Center for Learning & Family Fun Located in Downtown Roanoke, Virginia

HARRISON MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN CULTURE

Connect With Us:

#centerinthesquare •

Family/June 201967

Most banks evaluate their worth by how much they keep. At Freedom First, we measure our value by how much we give back. Our profits are returned to our Valleys in various ways-through higher rates on deposits and lower rates on loans, as well as through community grants, scholarships, event sponsorships, and our Impact Banking products. We also give back with Scoop our ice cream truck and free ice cream at festivals, events, schools, firehouses, non-profits, and businesses.

Join us. Open an account today.

(540) 389-0244 (866) 389-0244

68 insured Family/by June 2019 Federally NCUA.

freedomf irst.com