Growing Up In the Valley March 2018 by Roanoke Valley Family Magazine

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

Volume 6 Issue 7 • March 2018 • Take One

In The Valley

Summer Camp Guide

PLAY D.I.Y.

Build your own playhouse this spring Growing Up • March 2018

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All Points REALTORS

Letter from the Editor

he weather is starting to warm up a bit and before you know it the final weeks of the school year will be on us! That is why every year in March we put out the annual summer camp guide! This is the sixth straight year that we have put out the biggest list of local and regional camps for your children. Whether they like computers, books or the outdoors, the guide has something for every child! Anika, Andrea and Evelyn dropping Anika off at the airport! Facebook Facebook.com/ growingupinthevalley Follow Us on Instagram @Growingupmag Tweet Us on Twitter @growing_up_mag Email The Editor andrea@ growingupinthevalley.com Story Ideas Share your story ideas with us by emailing info@growingupinthevalley.com

In this issue we also focus on the housing market as we discuss differences between online and local mortgage brokers. We even share some personal horror stories on our experiences with Realtors! Don’t worry, it ends on a high note! Lastly, we wanted to make sure you were aware of our two big projects coming up! First, The Virginia Family Expo Returns on April 7th at the Salem Civic Center. This event is a great way to get out and meet local businesses and get information and samples on everything from food to tutoring services for your family. The event is FREE and has lots of activities for the kids as well! Lastly, April marks the debut of Paws & Claws, our new pet magazine! We are excited to be publishing this magazine for all of the pet lovers out there! We have four pets ourselves and we know that there is not a good source of one stop information out there for pet owners. We hope to become that source in print and online at www.roanoke.pet. Check out the debut issue, wherever you pick up your monthly copy of Growing Up In the Valley. Thanks for reading and we hope to see you out and about!

Andrea, Josh, Anika and Evelyn

Growing Up In The Valley PUBLI SHER Josh Eagan EDI TOR Andrea Eagan CRE AT IVE DIRE C TOR Tracy Fisher S ALE S & MARK E T ING Anika Eagan Ashley Vigorito DI S T RIBUT ION Info@growingupinthevalley.com C ON T RIBUTOR S Peg McGuire Katie Lewis Ava Rosa DeVries Beth Farnsworth Clifford Jackson Stephanie Ogilvie Brittney Tilson Jacqueline Moon C ont ac t Us : Phone: 540-251-1660 Fax: 540-808-1568 Mail: PO BOX 4484 Roanoke, VA 24015 General Inquiries: Info@growingupinthevalley.com We welcome reader comments, submissions and the support of advertisers. We reserve the right to refuse or edit any materials submitted to us that we deem inappropriate for our audience. Please include a self addressed stamped envelope with any submission to be returned. We do not accept responsiblity for unsolicited materials. Growing Up In the Valley and Growingupinthevalley. com are published by MoFat Publishing. Growing Up In the Valley is published monthly. The views and the opinions expressed by the writers and advertisers do not necessarily represnt those of Growing Up In the Valley, it’s staff or contributors. The information presented here is for informational purposes only and although every effort has been made to present accurate information, we do not in any way accept responsibility for the accuracy of, or consequences from the use of this information or for the businesses and organizations presented herein. We urge all parents to confirm any information given herein and consult with a doctor or an appropriate professional concerning any information or question. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in part or in whole without the express written consent of the publisher.

Inside This Issue

March 2018

Features 7

2018 Summer Camp Guide Find the perfect camp for your family.

Mortgages: Online Vs. In-Person As technology grows, so do your mortgage options!

Realtor Horror Stories How a Realtor can scare you into buying a home.

Sweet Summer Memories

Learn and Grow 44

Play D.I.Y.: Playhouse Learn how to build your own custom playhouse in a single weekend!

It’s a Money Thing

Winter Home Care Maintain your home this winter and save some money at the same time.

Chromatography Science Experiment Discover the magic hiding within everyday plants and objects.

Star City Little Library Six great books to read while waiting for spring to arrive!

Resources 34

Go. Play. See. We’ve expanded our events calendar to include over 90 activities for the whole family!

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

Education Guide

ON THE COVER Raeanne and Karl Ludwinski and their 3 kids: Kaylen, Ben, Finn Photography by: Elizabeth Farnsworth

Sign-up for the ultimate action packed summer camp experience...

Our Camps Include:

Ages Completed Kindergarten - 5th Grade

Summer Camp Runs from

June 11- August 17

Team Sport Challenge Splash Days at our Private Pool Survivor Island Excursions Adventurous Learning Activities

Make this summer one to remember

Summer Camp Guide

Alta Mons

beach-to-bay trip, canoeing (day & week-long), caving, equestrian, horseback, kayaking, mountain biking, river tubing, rock climbing & whitewater rafting.

Boys & Girls • Ages 5-18 Shawsville, VA (540) 268-2409 altamons.org

4-H Camp Southwest VA Boys & Girls • Ages 9-18

775 Hermitage Road, Wirtz, VA (540) 721-2759 retreatatsmithmountainlake.com

Summer camp at the Skelton 4-H Center provides countless opportunities for learning more about the natural world around us. Days are filled with instructional-based camp classes, unstructured recreation and swim time, flag ceremonies, and evening programs.

Alta Mons is a summer camp and retreat center owned by the Roanoke District of the United Methodist Church and located in Shawsville, VA. We are open year round, providing space for others to experience God through our outdoor ministry. We have summer camp and other programs throughout the year for children of all ages, as well as facilities available to rent for family reunions, retreats, or small group meetings.

Fincastle, VA, is an ACAaccredited, Christian summer camp offering 3and 6-day resident camps, adventures, and trips for ages 4-18, plus day camps and single-evening family adventures. Camp Bethel is also home to Carilion’s Camp Too Sweet for children and youth with diabetes, and the Kevin Jones Performing Arts Studio Camps. Adventure Camps and Trips include backpacking, mountains-to-

Camp Bethel

Camp Blue Ridge

Boys & Girls • Ages 7-17 529 Old Mill Road, Montebello, VA (540) 466-1583 campblueridge.org

Camp Blue Ridge offers 6 different styles of camp to fit your family! We offer everything from aquatic adventure to arts and crafts! We have a Family Summer Camp so that everyone can enjoy the beautiful nature God has given us.

Bricks 4 Kidz

Boys & Girls • Ages 5-18

Boys & girls • All Ages

328 Bethel Road, Fincastle, VA (540) 992-2940 CampBethelVirginia.org

1060 23rd Street SW, Roanoke, VA (540) 380-2485 bricks4kidz.com/virginia-roanoke-salem

Camp Bethel, in beautiful

Ferrum College Summer Enrichment Camp MP

MOTTO: I Ca

JUNE 17–23 or JUNE 24–30

I t!

CAMP 2018

AGES 9–13

FUN • CHALLENGING • MEMORABLE EDUCATIONAL • AFFORDABLE ENRICHMENT CLASSES Bon Voyage en Francais I Cooking 101 Creative Crafting Crime Scene Investigators Crime Scene Investigators II Drawing Hippology

Hogwarts Academy I: O.W.L. Hogwarts Academy II: N.E.W.T. Living, 1800 Style Mythology Summer Theater The Ferrum Challenge The Writer’s Toolbox

(888) 508-7822 | www.ferrum.edu/fcsec | 8

Growing Up • March 2018

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FERRUM COLLEGE ENRICHMENT CAMP

Camp Carysbrook

3500 Camp Carysbrook Road, Riner, VA (540) 382-1670 campcarysbrook.com

opportunity to participate in different weekly themes with engaging activities, educational field trips and projects with their friends.

Chatham Hall Riding Camp

Country Bear Day Care Summer Camps

Girls Only • Ages 6-16

Girls Only • Ages 10-16

800 Chatham Hall Circle, Chatham, VA (434) 432-5605 chathamhall.org

Childcare Network Summer Camps

Boys & Girls • Ages 0-12 4335 Brambleton Avenue, Roanoke, VA (540) 989-3459 childcarenetwork.com/virginia-roanoke-va-65

Childcare Network’s Adventure Summer Camp Program is designed to provide a fun and exciting environment for your child, while continuing to help them explore and discover the world around them. While at our kids’ day camp your child will have the

Boys & Girls • Ages 0-12

5220 Starkey Road, Roanoke, VA (540) 774-2547 countrybeardayschool.com

Divine Dance Center Boys & Girls • Ages 3+

3513 Brambleton Avenue, Roanoke, VA (540) 774-0296 divinedancecenter.com

Come learn with an awardwinning competitive dance company! Professional staff and friendly atmosphere!

Camp Eagle

Boys & Girls • Ages 5-18 458 Camp Eagle Road, Fincastle, VA (540) 473-3117 campeagleva.org

Camp Easter Seals UCP Boys & Girls • Ages 7-22

201 E. Main Street, Salem, VA (540) 777-5750 campeastersealsucp.com

Ferrum College Camps Boys & Girls • Ages 9-13

215 State Rte 602, Ferrum, VA (888)-508-7822 ferrum.edu/fcsec

Ferrum College provides a relaxed, informal

atmosphere with the conveniences and security of a small campus. Residence halls, classrooms, dining hall, and recreational facilities are located within an easy walking distance. Specially selected camp counselors are assigned to each group of 8 to 10 campers and provide supervision at all times. Campers and staff are housed in an air-conditioned residence hall.

Growing Up • March 2018

Camp Friendship

Boys & Girls • Ages 7-17 573 Friendship Road, Palmyra, VA (434) 589-8950 campfriendship.com

Global Youth Village

Boys & Girls • Ages 14-18

1020 Legacy Drive, Bedford, VA (540) 871-0882 globalyouthvillage.org

Girl Scout Camp Icimani

Ages 6-17

Roanoke, VA (540) 777-5100 gsvsc.org/summer-camps

Growing Up • March 2018

Bring your girl somewhere safe, enriching, and filled to the brim with opportunities—give her the chance to camp #LikeaGirlScout! Girls can discover the wonders of the great outdoors, try new things, play games, make friends, and so much more—all while learning critical life skills every step of the way.

Camp Holiday Trails

Boys & Girls • Ages 5-20 (434) 977-3781 400 Holiday Trails Lane, Charlottesville, VA campholidaytrails.org

Hollins University Camps

Girls Only • Ages 14-18 7916 Williamson Road, Roanoke, VA (540) 362-6212 hollins.edu/academics/ hollinssummer

HoneyTree Summer Camps

Boys & Girls • Ages 5-12 (540) 344-4543 honeytreeelc.com

The Hive Summer Camp at HoneyTree is for school students who have completed kindergarten through age 12. A private swim club, plus special interest groups, arts and science projects, field trips, and more keep The Hive buzzing with activities each weekday. The Hive opens when school is out and lasts for 10 weeks. With over 35 years of service to Roanoke Valley families, HoneyTree provides a quality program in a safe, supportive environment. Treat your youngster to one active summer — and yourself to peace of mind — at The Hive.

Camp Horizons

Boys & Girls • Ages 9-16

3586 Horizons Way, Harrisonburg, VA (540) 896-7600 camphorizonsva.com

Lancerlot Summer Camps Boys & Girls • Ages 5-12

1110 Vinyard Road, Vinton, VA (540) 981-0205 lancerlotsportscomplex.com/lancerlot-sportscamp

Little Leapers

Boys & Girls • Ages 3-9

1460 S. Main Street, Blacksburg, VA (540) 200-8573 thelittleleapers.com

Melody Makers

Boys & Girls • Ages 0-5

3540 Brambleton Ave, Roanoke, VA (540) 989-9177 melodymakersroanoke.com

Camp Mont Shenandoah Boys & Girls • Ages 7-12 218 Mont Shenandoah Lane, Millboro Springs, VA (540) 997-5994 campmontshenandoah.com

Kids Climbing Camps Camps for kids aged 5-12

Voted Best of the Blue Ridge’s Top Climbing Gym 4 years running!

North Star Childcare Summer Camps

Discounted rate if you sign up before May 31st!

5407 Peters Creek Road, Roanoke, VA (540) 366-3629 northstar4kids.com

For more information or to sign up call (540) 685-2360 or visit riverrockclimbing.com/youth/ summer-camps/

Boys & Girls • Ages 5-12

Growing Up • March 2018

Camp Rim Rock Girls • Ages 8-16

343 Camp Rim Rock Road, Yellow Spring, WV (304) 856-2869 camprimrock.com

River Rock Climbing

Boys & Girls • Ages 5-18

806 Wasena Avenue SW #100, Roanoke, VA (540) 685-2360 riverrockclimbing.com

Looking for something completely different? We have just the thing at the River Rock! Indoor rock climbing promotes confidence, coordination and balance, muscle development, teamwork, and problem solving skills. The social and athletic skills acquired through climbing will last a lifetime. We have camps for all age ranges that will keep your kids moving and having fun. Our walls are professionally

engineered and certified by the Climbing Wall Association. All our equipment meets or exceeds industry standards. Our River Rock Staff has been carefully selected, extensively trained, loves working with youth, and are certified in first aid and CPR. It is our privilege to work with your children.

Roanoke Children’s Theatre

Boys & Girls • Ages 5-18

The Jefferson Center, 541 Luck Ave SW Roanoke, VA (540) 400-7795 roanokechildrenstheatre.org

RCT Theatre Academy seeks to show young people a world where imagination and creative expression thrive: The theatre! Our classes are perfect for serious, aspiring performers, and for students who just want to have fun. If you’re not sure which class is right

for you, call 540-309-6802 for help. Register early!

Roanoke College Soccer Camp Girls & Boys • Ages 4-18

221 College Lane, Salem, VA (540) 375-4955 roanokesoccerschool.com

Our youth camps offer players from a wide range

Find your

Summer Camp for Girls!

Growing Up • March 2018

CAMP today!

of ages and abilities an opportunity to develop at Roanoke College. Sessions at the camps are created age-specific to provide knowledge and enthusiasm for the game in a fun and challenging training environment. These camps will feature the staffs and players from the highly successful Roanoke College

men’s and women’s soccer programs, as well as top youth and college coaches.

Roanoke City Summer Camps Boys & Girls • Ages 5-13 215 Church Avenue SW, Roanoke, VA (540) 510-4056 playroanoke.com

Roanoke County Summer Camps Girls & Boys • All Ages

1206 Kessler Mill Road, Salem, VA (540) 387-6078 roanokecountyparks.com

Roanoke Star Soccer Camps

Girls & Boys • Ages 5-18

2800 Electric Road SW, Roanoke, VA (540) 345-7820 roanokestar.com

Science Museum

Boys & Girls • All Ages

1 Market Square SE, Roanoke, VA (540) 342-5710 smwv.org

Discover, explore, and get your hands dirty this summer with a wide variety of fun science camps to choose from at the Science Museum of Western Virginia! These exciting programs occur at the museum where children will spend their days doing hands-on science under the supervision of experienced educators.

Camp Strawderman Girls • Ages 6-17

2494 Dellinger Acres Road, Edinburg, VA (540) 984-4738 campstrawderman.com

Camp Strawderman is about riding horseback, swimming in fresh water streams and hiking on mountain trails. It’s about belly laughs

and Indian stories, sitting by roaring campfires and igniting lifelong friendships.

Camp Tall Timbers

Boys & Girls • Ages 7-16

1115 Reflection Lane, High View, WV (304) 856-3722 camptalltimbers.com

Taubman Museum Camps Boys & Girls • All Ages 5-14 Roanoke, VA (540) 342-5760 taubmanmuseum.org

Kids will sculpt, paint and draw their way to a fun summer adventure. Programs for all young artists!

Camp Twin Creeks

Boys & Girls • Ages 7-16

Marlinton, WV (914) 345-0707 camptwincreeks.com

Camp Tuk-A-Way

Boys & Girls • Ages 8-18

2262 Craig Creek Road, Blacksburg, VA (540) 961-4100 camptukaway.com

Valley AFC

Boys & Girls • Ages 3-18 PO Box 20045, Roanoke, VA (540) 774-7272 valleyafc.org

Camp Virginia Jaycee

Boys & Girls • All Ages 2494 Camp Jaycee Road, Blue Ridge, VA (540) 947-2972 campvajc.org

A summer camp located in Blue Ridge, VA offering overnight camp, family camp and day camp for children, youth and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder and/or

WE EXIST TO PROVIDE A CHRIST-CENTERED WORLDVIEW TO AS MANY STUDENTS AS POSSIBLE Day Care • Preschool • Elementary • Middle • High Scholarships are Available. Call for a Tour Today (540) 890-4465• 1030 Bible Lane, Vinton, VA 24179

Day Camp & Resident Camp Shawsville, VA •540-268-2409 www.altamons.org/summer-camp

Summer Camps for grades K - 12

June 24 to July 20 Growing Up • March 2018

developmental disabilities. Activities planned at Camp Virginia Jaycee include: arts and crafts, music, boating, fishing, sports, games and Jr. Lifeguard training. The evening will be filled with hayrides, dances, carnivals and talent shows – lots of safe fun! Take the time to check our web site out and see what other parents have to say about our very special camp!

We are counting down the days to summer!

Camp Watonka Boys• Ages 8-16

328 Wangum Falls Road, Hawley, PA (570) 226-4779 watonka.com

Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing Boys & Girls • Ages 8-17

11176 Peaceful Valley Road, New Castle, VA (540) 864-6792 wilderness-adventure.com

YMCA (Kirk Family)

Boys & Girls • All Ages

520 Church Avenue, Roanoke, VA (540) 342 9622 ymcaroanoke.org/kirk-family-ymca

YMCA (Salem)

Boys & Girls • All Ages

1126 Kime Lane, Salem, VA (540) 387-9622 ymcaroanoke.org/salem-family-ymca

“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

Provided by Laurissa Grubb from Blue Eagle® Credit Union To Lease or To Finance: That is the Question!

at work (and yes, it can be kind of depressing).

When it comes to buying a new car, you have three options: purchasing it with cash, purchasing it through a loan (also known as financing) or leasing it. For most shoppers, the decision comes down to buying or leasing.

All cars depreciate in value over time, but the steepest drop happens in the first three to five years, as you can see below: • Brand new to 5 years old—the car depreciates by 15% to 20% of its value each year • From 5 years to 10 years—the rate of depreciation slows slightly to 10% to 15% of its value each year • 10+ years—the rate of depreciation tends to level out to less than 5% a year. By this time, the car is usually worth less than one-fifth of its retail price!

On the surface, the differences between leasing and buying a vehicle seem fairly straightforward. Leasing a car means you’ll usually have access to a new set of wheels every few years; buying it likely means that you plan to drive the same car for a much longer period of time. Leasing usually includes a warranty that covers most of your repairs; buying means accepting larger repair costs, which are inevitable as the car ages. Leasing agreements can limit your mileage and your ability to customize your ride; buying means you can put as many miles as you want on the car and customize it however you’d like. Looking only at the comparisons above, you might conclude that buying a car is a more practical and economical option than leasing a car—but if that’s really the case, why are monthly lease payments so much lower (often 40% lower!) than monthly loan payments? Why is leasing considered more expensive in the long term if you’re paying less on a month-to-month basis? To answer these questions, let’s take a look at the concept of depreciation. Depreciation means a loss of value over time. New cars are a textbook example—you’ve likely heard that a car loses thousands of dollars in value the moment you drive it off the lot. That’s accurate, and that’s depreciation

Depreciation takes its toll on the value of every vehicle. However, your decision to lease or buy will have an effect on how that depreciation influences your finances. When you finance a car, you own it once you pay off the loan. This means that you personally take the hit on its depreciation, but it also means you also “own” its residual value. Although that value depreciates over time, if there comes a time when you’re ready to sell it or trade it in, you get the benefit of that resale or trade-in value. By contrast, when you lease a car, you never actually own it. The company that leases the car to you is responsible for selling the car once you’ve completed your lease term. The leasing company also ultimately deals with the car’s depreciation in value. You get to drive a brand new car without needing to

think about its loss in value. That sounds pretty great, right? In reality, even though the leasing company deals with the eventual sale of the car, you’re the one who makes up for its loss in value through your monthly payments. That payment includes an estimate of how much the car will depreciate by the time your term is up. Monthly payments are lower because you’re not paying for the entire car—you’re just paying for how much the car will depreciate in those few years that you’re driving it (a period of time when, coincidentally, the car depreciates the most). When you finance a car, the monthly payments are higher because you are paying for the entire car, plus interest on the loan. When you pay the loan back, your monthly payments stop (unlike leasing payments, which continue as long as you’re still leasing) and even though your car will have depreciated in value by that point, you will own the remaining value. As with any major financial decision, there are also other factors that come into play. You need to be realistic about your budget and honest about your lifestyle, and you need to figure out what’s most important to you as a new car owner. How comfortable are you with the limitations set by a lease agreement? How prepared are you to pay for eventual car repairs? Will driving a new car every two to three years be worth thousands of dollars more in the long run? To some people, it might be—it all depends on a combination of your personal needs and preferences.

Growing Up • March 2018

Plant Chromatography Experiment Experiment and photos provided by the Science Museum of Western Virginia

1, 2

Directions: 1. Cut flat sections of a coffee filter into strips about as wide as your thumb. You will need one strip for each leaf. 2. Trim one end of each strip so that they are square and not curved.

Materials: • Scissors • Coffee filters • Rubbing alcohol • Leaves (2-3 different plants) • Pennies • Small cup Other things to try: • Use different liquids. Does this work with water? Or saltwater? Or nail polish remover? • You can try this with markers too. Instead of creating a line with a leaf and penny, draw one with a marker and watch what happens.

chro•ma•tog•ra•phy noun The separation of a mixture by passing it in solution or suspension through a medium in which the components move at different rates.

3. Place one leaf on each strip about a finger width up from the bottom of the strip. 4. Run the edge of the penny across the leaf so that you create a line on the coffee filter. (Use a different penny for each leaf.)

5. Pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol into the cup (make sure it’s just enough to cover the ends of the filter strips without touching the leaf lines).

5,6

6. Place your coffee filter strips into the cup so that they are not touching each other but the ends closest to the leaf lines are in the rubbing alcohol. 7. Watch as the rubbing alcohol pulls the pigment up from the leaf lines. It will separate into the different colors in the leaf because of the different properties of each pigment.

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

2007 Oak Grove Plaza, Roanoke

(540) 989-0520

Enroll NOW to be splash ready for Summer! 18

Growing Up • March 2018

Opinions expressed are those of our readers, and not of Growing Up In the Valley or their staff.

I think be a personal decision, and respectthey’re those who feel ll 5 it ofshould our children have had their vaccinations, proven, it’s some not a for good idea, but I vaccinate my daughter. I always do my decades now, to be effective and have saved millions own research though of lives. -Sabrina M. and ask a lot of questions. We have a doctor who is very understanding and has made me feel very comfortable about we have I also asked my family members I thinkwhat it should be a done. personal decision, andclose respect those who feel to get a whooping cough vaccine before she was born. Lauren it’s not a good idea, but I vaccinate my daughter. I always do myW.

own research though and ask a lot of questions. We have a doctor Yes. negligent to your child andmade othersme not to.very - Cassie M. who It’s is very understanding and has feel comfortable about what we have done. I also asked my close family members We choose not to. We may do some vaccinations once our child W. to get a whooping cough vaccine before she was born. - Lauren reaches 2 years old. The immune system needs to develop naturally at least for the first two Everyone Yes. It’s negligent to your child andyears. others not to. -should Cassiebe M. mindful and should educate themselves before deciding whether or to vaccinate their child. - JD-Sarah W. Wenot choose not to. We may do some vaccinations once our child reaches 2 years old. The immune system needs to develop naturally at least for the first two years. Everyone should be mindful and should educate themselves before deciding whether Meet-Ups or not to vaccinate their child. - JD-SarahBi-Monthly W.

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

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

Support & Projects

Are these shots doing more harm than good, or are they the pinnacle of medical advancement? Are these shots doing more harm than good, or are they the pinnacle of medical advancement?

ll 5 of our children have had their vaccinations, they’re proven, some for decades now, to be effective and have saved millions of lives. -Sabrina M.

Get in Touch

“Should you vaccinate “Shouldyour you children?” vaccinate your children?”

Facebook Community Baby Station at Events Connecting with Health Professionals & Businesses & More!!

BREASTRoanoke.org BREASTRoanoke@gmail.com Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @BREASTRoanoke Growing Up • March 2018

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

Trampolines & So Much More!

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

540-404-9235 L J Launchingpadsalem.com I 1300 Intervale Drive, Salem VA, 24153

Come, Sing With Us! RVCC Auditions

Auditions for boys and girls ages 7-17 May 5, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM | May 7 & 10, 3:30 PM - 8:30 PM duPont Chapel, Hollins University Singers should come prepared to sing the first verse of “My Country Tis of Thee”.

Schedule an audition by calling or texting: 540-RChorus Email: auditions@childrenschoir.com Come, Sing with us and join our nationally recognized, 280 voice choir. 3 Training Choirs and a Concert Choir Directed by Kimberly R. Davidson

Shaping children’s voices and building character since 1987.

childrenschoir.com/auditions

Dancing with the Roanoke Stars

Article by Jackie Moon Photos provided by the Berglund Center

Are you ready to be inspired?

As you might already know if you’re a fan of the show Dancing With the Stars, Peta Murgatroyd is an amazing dancer: Her multi-award-winning work spans genres and delights audiences around the world. She was the Australian state champion in ballroom dancing, won the DWTS Mirror Ball trophy twice, and performed in the international and Broadway productions of Burn the Floor. What you may not know is the reason behind her passion for the art form, and that’s what she’s going to show you on March 23rd at the Berglund Center, when the highly-anticipated show, Confidential, makes its way to Roanoke.

Peta has been dancing since she was four years old—and now, at thirty-one and with a young child of her own, she’s still going strong on the dance floor. Alongside her husband, Maks, and her brother-in-law, Val, Peta will display what she feels is the best aspect of dance, what makes it absolutely essential to her. “Dance is an art form you never let go of,” Peta told us. “because it’s a release of every emotion you can have.” Joy, empathy, love, regret, disgust, passion—it can all be expressed through dance. In Confidential, the trio will perform powerful pieces based on their own real-life experiences.

“I don’t want to give too much away, but the show reveals individual things we’ve gone through. The choreography is based on life events, and in that way it’s very much different than work I’ve done in the past. We’ve actually lived through those moments.” Peta said. But don’t let the fact that it’s an emotionally-driven performance make you think it’ll be a downer. “It’s a feel-good, high-energy show,” Peta explained. “People will be up on their feet.” There will be something in the show for everyone, “from four to ninety-four,” she said. Confidential features all kinds of dance, from

Growing Up • March 2018

tango to hip-hop, from jazz to waltz. Peta, a mother herself, said the show will be a wonderful family experience. Having danced from such a young age, Peta believes that dancing can be an invaluable part of a child’s life. Because it so powerfully gives a voice to feelings kids might otherwise not know how to express, it can be a very effective emotional outlet. Not only that, it’s fun, and it’s good exercise. Dance is great “even for teenage boys,” Peta said. “If they can walk out on a dance floor and feel confident, that’s a really beneficial thing for them to have.” Another plus—for kids and adults alike—is the connection that’s formed in dancing with a partner, she said. Sharing those moments with another person, communicating and coordinating your

SUMMER CAMPS

To register, go to 22

Growing Up • March 2018

movements and expressions with one another, is quite different from dancing alone. The benefits, like social connectedness, the mindfulness that comes from making moment-tomoment decisions, and the wellbeing that comes from human touch, are important for people of all ages. Dance, whether solo or partner, helps you get to know yourself, and others, better. Not only does Peta dance with her family on the stage in the Confidential show, she dances with her family at home. She and Maks will turn up the music at home, and their one-year-old son, Shai, will hold onto their thumbs and dance along with them. While she won’t pressure him to become a dancer, she does hope he finds the love for it that she has. Peta, Maks, and Val bring Confidential to the Berglund Center on Friday, March 23rd at 8 pm. There are still tickets left, although they’re going fast! Visit theberglundcenter.com to find tickets for you and your family, and be inspired together.

2018

roanokechildrenstheatre.org

What to Ask a Realtor How Long Have You Been in Business? There is no bar exam for real estate agents and no school to attend that teaches agents how to handle problems in a transaction. They learn on the job. The more sales an agent has completed, the more she knows. What Is Your Average List Price to Sales Price Ratio? A competent listing agent should hold a track record for negotiating sales prices that are very close to list prices. Therefore, listing agents should have higher ratios closer to 100%. Buyer’s agent ratios should fall below 99%.

Realtor Horror Stories Article by Josh Eagan

he process started over two years ago. We had been living out in Blue Ridge for a while at that point, and we had been growing more and more unhappy with that decision. We were too far away from work, our daughters’ school was in Roanoke, and although some people may love nearly two acres of land, we hated yard work. To understand the full story, we need to go back to the beginning of living in Roanoke, over twelve years ago. We came here sight unseen, and the first person we met was our Realtor. Our previous experience with a realtor was from Davenport, Iowa - and it was not a good one. The realtor was more concerned about the location of fast food restaurants than houses! Seriously, she pointed out every McDonalds and Burger King we drove by. So back to our move to Roanoke and the realtor who was recommended to us. We did not know where to look for houses or what we were getting ourselves into. This Realtor, in retrospect, did a great job for us as first-time home buyers, and we learned a lot from the whole purchasing experience.

The only negative to that experience was our selection of areas to live in. Our oldest daughter was only six months old and our youngest was on the way. We did not plan for things like parks or schools at that time. We took the move out to Roanoke as an opportunity to buy our first home, but with no clear vision as to what our long-term plan was. When our oldest was getting ready for kindergarten, we chose to move again in order to get into a “better” school district. We did a bit of research and decided on a few locations. This time around we chose a Realtor that was an acquaintance, a friend if you will. Our new Realtor was our listing agent and our buying agent, so she had a lot riding on us. She also had a partner we did not know and we quickly learned she would say yes to anything. The partner would never listen to anything we said, but would change her response to anything based upon our reaction. When we started looking, this team of Realtors showed us a bunch of houses, but again, it was easy to see they were out to sell us whatever house we were looking at. It did not matter if it was what we needed (4 bedrooms, 2

What Is Your Best Marketing Plan or Strategy for My Needs? Buying and selling plans are different! How are they going to search for your new home? How are they going to advertise your old one? What Are the Top Three Things That Separate You from Your Competition? A good agent won’t hesitate to answer this question and will be ready to fire off why he is best suited for the job. May I Review Documents Beforehand That I Will Be Asked to Sign? All forms should be made available to you for preview before you are required to sign them. How Will You Help Me Find Other Professionals? Your agent should be able to supply you with a written list of referring vendors such as mortgage brokers, home inspectors and title companies. Ask for an explanation if you see the term “affiliated,” because it could mean that the agent and her broker are receiving compensation from one or all vendors, and you could be paying a premium for the service. How Much Do You Charge? All real estate fees are negotiable. Typically, real estate agents charge a percentage, from 1% to 4%, to represent one side of a transaction: a seller or a buyer. What Kind of Guarantee Do You Offer? Will the agent stand behind his service to you? What is her company’s policy about canceled agreements? Has anybody ever canceled an agreement with him before? What Haven’t I Asked You That I Need to Know? Pay close attention to how the real estate agent answers this question, because there is often something else you may need to understand. Growing Up • March 2018

baths). We could have walked into a studio apartment and they would have acted like it was perfect for us until we said no. In other words, they wanted the sale. When we received an offer on our house within a week, we were convinced, harshly, that we needed to accept whatever the offer was. To take it and run. At the same time, we had found a house we liked (and eventually bought) in Blue Ridge. We were told the exact oposite on that side of the negotiation. DO NOT ASK FOR ANYTHING! No inspection, no closing costs, nothing. We did as told because we were excited to move. We offered full price for a house that the family was desperate to sell and was well overpriced in the market.

that we had bumped into from time to time. Our house sat for six months and we had a total of six showings. An Open house produced no showings, and although our Realtor was responsive to helping us find a new house, we never could sell ours. After the listing expired, Realtors came out of the woodwork looking for an opportunity to pick up where the last one left off. They called and promised they could sell the house. They mailed us stats on how good they were and what made them different from the other Realtors. One even called me every day, never stopping, for over four months. One of those Realtors was Christy Crouch. But she took a much different approach, and you could tell she was different from the moment she introduced herself. She showed a quality not one Realtor did from dozens that called; she was humble.

The fact of the matter is that the Realtors we selected had their own best interest in mind at the end of the day. We can see that now. Looking back, I am not sure how we failed to notice it at the time it was happening. Realtors are there to help the customer - buyer, seller or both. They need to provide advice on what to do and what to offer, but they need to make sure they are working in their client’s best interest and not their own. We left that sale and purchase feeling taken advantage of. That friend - never responded to us again, and conveniently took us off her mailing list.

Christy explained who she was and asked for the opportunity to be interviewed by us so that we could determine if she was the right Realtor for us. She did not assume she was the best and she did not sell herself to us. Christy approached our situation as if she needed to earn our trust, earn our business, and prove herself. This approach stuck with us for over two years until we were ready to try again to sell.

Flash forward five years. We put our house on the market through a Realtor

I go back to my earlier point, that Realtors should have the client’s best

The entire team was amazing to work with and was superbly knowledgeable and understanding. A process that is normally stressful and confusing was easy, and we felt informed and in control the entire time.

interest in mind. They are, after all, representing you in the biggest purchase and/or sale in your life. You know what type of house your family wants and you know what will and will not work for your family in terms of space, location, and functionality. A Realtor is there to help you guide the way and get you from the door of your old home to the door of your new one. Christy and her team understand this and they approach the selling and buying process that way. I cannot express enough how wonderful their team is to work with. From the beginning, they were quick to answer and were responsive to any question, doubt, or thought we had. They worked with us to get the house on the market in just a few days. Unlike last time, we had people looking within an hour of listing! Their team’s approach is aggressive, as they work with other Realtors behind the scenes to get viewings. We had over Thirty views within weeks, and an offer in just a few months. The entire team was amazing to work with and was superbly knowlegable and understanding. A process that is normally stressful and confusing was easy and we felt informed and in control the entire time. I write this article to explain to all potential homeowners out there that you have options. You have a say in what your house is worth and what your future house will be. Don’t let the emotion of the experience get in the way of your needs and what you can and cannot afford. Find a Realtor that will treat your purchase as their own. Make sure you interview them to determine whether they will see eye to eye with you and guide you rather than push you. We know there are a ton of great Realtors out there, not just on the Crouch Team. We also know there are plenty of Realtors out for the quick sale. We have met a few! Just make sure to do your research and speak your mind. The home selling and buying experience can be enjoyable for you and your family if you choose the right Realtor and make sure they are working for you.

Messy Garages Stand in the Way of Americans Pursuing their Passions Americans would love more time to pursue hobbies they’re passionate about, and time-drains like disorganized garages are a big obstacle to doing the activities they enjoy, according to a new survey conducted by Gladiator and Kelton Global.

Eighty-four percent of Americans surveyed would like more time for their passions, and nearly 40% said a lack of time was standing in the way, the study found. Instead of partaking in hobbies like adventure sports, arts, reading, music, and gardening, Americans are spending more time running errands (41%) and even catching up on much-needed rest (44%).

Sacrificing For Passions

Americans’ Passions

Survey respondents say if they could have more time for their hobbies, they also would be willing to:

Hobbies aren’t just for fun in the minds of most Americans, the survey found. In fact, respondents say their passions help them maintain happiness and relieve stress. Fifty-nine percent say engaging in their favorite activities is a stress-reliever for them. What’s more, many feel their hobbies help define who they are; 24% of adventure-seekers associate their hobbies with their self-identity. What’s Getting in the Way While a lack of time is a significant obstacle to Americans’ pursuit of their passions, it’s not the only one. According to survey respondents, other factors standing in the way include: * Not having enough money (49%) * Other priorities, such as family (39%) * Work obligations (23%) * Resting (44%)

When it comes to finding more time to pursue their passions, Americans are willing to go to great lengths. More than a third of the working Americans surveyed leave work early to engage in hobbies, and 27% would take a sick day.

* Sacrifice an hour of sleep every night for a month (25%) * Give up coffee for a month (25%) * Get a tattoo (15%) * Wear something silly in public (17%) * Spend an extra half hour per day stuck in traffic (11%) * Give up their cell phones for a month (12%) Solutions Instead Of Sacrifice Many Americans understand disorganization can cut into time they would like to spend on other pursuits, including their hobbies. Of course, the gear, supplies and equipment needed for hobbies like outdoor sports, electronics and arts and crafts often get stored in garages. Getting help with garage organization could free up time for Americans to do the things they really love.

* Cleaning & organizing their home (34%) Study was conducted by Kelton Global, a leading global insights research firm, between April 12-16, 2017 among 3,127 Americans ages 18+. Growing Up • March 2018

Warm Up with 5 DIY Projects to Tackle This Winter The winter season doesn’t mean your indoor projects also need to hibernate. You can get to work right now even while there is a chill in the air. Start with the list below and see where inspiration takes you. Your home could have a dramatically new look and feel once spring has sprung.

For the avid DIYer in you, the winter season may cause a little anxiety while you’re cooped up inside and unable to tackle those outdoor projects you’d love to finish. The good news, however, is that the inside of your home needs just as much DIY attention as the outside - sometimes more - and the winter is the perfect time to tackle these projects. Each of the tasks on the list below can be finished in a single weekend and, once completed, will make your home more enjoyable for the rest of the winter and beyond. • Apply a fresh coat of paint. Whether your drive to paint comes from a style choice or a need to repair dings and dents, there’s no reason you can’t tackle it now. Head to your local paint store to research options for colors and tools and then set aside a day where you can focus solely on your project. Whether you touch up your existing colors or go bold with an accent wall, this is one project you’ll be glad to finish.

Growing Up • March 2018

• Seal up those air leaks. This one isn’t just good for your house, it’s good for your wallet as well. Gaps around windows and doors allow cold air drafts to seep into your home as they let out the warm air needed to keep you comfortable. Choose a window and door insulating foam sealant you can use to seal gaps quickly to help make your home more comfortable and reduce the cost of your next heating bill. • Clear that clutter. A few months cooped up in your home can really lead to some excessive accumulation, so why not start your spring cleaning early? Tackle your home’s clutter over the course of several days and review everything you find. If you haven’t used an item in more than a year - or you don’t even know what it is - now is the time to sell it online, donate it, or simply throw it out. • Vacate the vermin. A visit from the in-laws is par for the course during the holidays, but there are plenty of actual intruders trying to enter your home once the weather turns cold. Arachnids

and insects of all varieties need only the smallest opening to access your home, so help block their access by applying a water-resistant sealant around any exterior openings to your home - such as heat or water pipes and cracks in your siding - and you’ll create a barrier between you and the pests trying to sneak in. • Make a big splash in your bathroom. No, you’re not going to spontaneously decide to remodel your bathroom, but a few tiny changes in this space can make it seem as though you did. Replacing your existing fixtures is a cost-effective way to give the space an entirely new appearance. A little elbow grease goes a long way too. Don’t be afraid to get down on your knees and bid that mildew goodbye once and for all with a simple mixture of bleach and warm water.

The Beauty Of Barn Doors

Barn doors moved out of the farmyard and into the house a long time ago. Recently, however, they have become an even more popular and useful feature in residential design. It’s not hard to see why. “Many homeowners hear the term ‘barn door’ and think of reclaimed, rustic wood, which may not be a look they’re interested in,” says Linda Jovanovich of the American Hardwood Information Center. “But contemporary barn doors offer many more aesthetic choices than their traditional image suggests. We’ve noticed a trend toward the use of solid, fine-milled hardwoods like walnut and cherry for sliding doors, which not only gives them satisfying heft but is also a great way to bring the warmth and character of natural wood into an interior.” Along with their decorative qualities, barn doors often provide a functional alternative to conventional swing doors. “Barn doors, either singly or in pairs, offer a simple and effective way to divide large spaces - a kitchen from a living-dining area, for example,” says Laguna Beach, California-based designer Lisa McDennon. “They can create instant separation and privacy in even the most open-plan house, which allows for greater flexibility in daily use.”

“A traditional door can use up to nine square feet of space, which is a lot in city apartments where every inch counts,” notes New York-based designer Glenn Gissler. “A barn door only takes up a sliver of floor, making it a terrific solution in tight situations such as hallways and narrow rooms. You just need enough adjacent wall footage to slide the door over.” Barn doors offer economic advantages, too. While pocket doors have similar space-saving benefits, installing them requires wall reconstruction - a messy and expensive business. Because barn doors run on hardware installed outside the frame, they need no such preparatory construction, saving time and money. And the tracks themselves are part of the doors’ decorative appeal. “There’s a terrific selection of barn-door hardware available,” Bohn says. “Use sleek, hightech tracks in brushed aluminum or satin-finish stainless steel for a modern urban vibe. For a more rustic or industrial statement, think blackened iron or raw steel, both of which look powerfully graphic against natural or painted wood.” Visit www.hardwoodinfo.com for more about residential design trends and other applications and products using American hardwoods.

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

Don’t Don’t let let your child your child be be the theone. one. Virginia’s childrenbehind are already behind when they start ThousandsThousands of Virginia’sofchildren are already when they start kindergarten. And kindergarten. And too often, parents are surprised to their child too often, parents are surprised to learn their child is one of them. It’s learn devastating, is one them. It’s andemotional can leadproblems to a higher risk of of costly and can lead to a of higher risk ofdevastating, costly social and for the rest social and emotional problems for the rest of the child’s life. It hurts the child’s life. It hurts our kids. It hurts our communities. But it is something we can our kids.sure It hurts But it is something we can change. Make change. Make your our childcommunities. is ready for kindergarten.

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

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

sure your child is ready for kindergarten.

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

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

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

Don’t let your child be

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The Pros and Cons of Online Mortgages

Today we tend to do everything online—from dating and being social to ordering groceries and banking. But when it comes to getting a home loan, does it make sense to go with one of those online mortgage companies?

f you’re thinking about going online to track down a home loan, here’s a quick rundown of the advantages and disadvantages: THE PROS Online Loans Can Be Simpler To make sure you can afford that house you have your eye on, financial institutions want to make sure you can afford it. To get a mortgage, loan officers often ask for a stack of paperwork and a list of documents that help them understand what you can afford. This process can be tedious and time-consuming, but an online service can make the application process simpler. Instead of hunting down and carting tons of tax returns and other financial documents, you can easily upload them to the

lender’s website or simply connect your financial info. This technology can speed up the loan process and, in many cases, will allow you to track the status of your loan online.

out with the kids, or even at 2am when you finally have a minute to yourself.

You May Get Lower Rates and Fees Online mortgage lenders often have less overhead than banks or brokers. These lenders often boast that they can pass on that savings to customers in the form of lower interest rates or fees.

Online Forms Can Be Confusing While it’s convenient to fill out a form from the comfort of your living room, online loan applications can be confusing. The risk of making an error is higher than it would be if a professional walked you through it. Misunderstanding a question and making a mistake could cost you more money or result in a problem down the road.

Online Applications Save Time Instead of traveling to an in-person appointment (where you have to cart in all those documents) you can work on an application as it makes sense with your busy schedule. You can fill out an online application while you’re waiting to get your oil changed, or while you’re hanging

THE CONS

Online Lenders Can Have Low Customer Service Most online-only mortgage lenders don’t provide a dedicated person to answer your questions and help

Article provided by Jason Helmintoller, Branch Partner at ALCOVA Mortgage. Growing Up • March 2018

you through the process. So, if you are confused about a question on the mortgage application or need assistance, you might be stuck with a 1-800 number with limited hours. Handing over your most personal data and working through possible bumps in the loan process can be nerve-wracking if you don’t have good customer service. Rates Aren’t Always Guaranteed Jumping on board with an online mortgage lender because they’re promising you a super low rate can backfire if it turns out that you’re not eligible for a great deal. By that point, you could be several weeks into the process, so you might feel like it’s too late to back out. And as a result, you could end up paying more for a mortgage than you had originally planned. Beware of Scams Of course, there are online scams that you need to be aware of. If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Beware of any unusually low interest rates or any sort of prepayment. Consider checking with the Better Business

Bureau or doing a simple google search. Then, you can carefully compare the loan terms they’re offering to make sure you’re getting the best deal. GET THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS: A Simple Online process with a Helping Hand If you’re looking for an option that blends the convenience of an online lender with the comfort of a professional loan officer, look no further than ALCOVA Mortgage. Convenient Online Application Just like online-only lenders, ALCOVA Mortgage offers a convenient online application that takes the hassle out of homebuying. You can fill out the online application and easily sync your financial info through your phone, tablet or computer anytime, anywhere. The Comfort of a Helping Hand Having one-on-one interaction, especially when it’s about home loans, can be enormously beneficial. Unlike online-only lenders, our loan officers are here to answer your

questions and guide you every step of the way. We can even fill out the application with you. Looking Out for You Though interest rates and fees may be lower with online lenders, it isn’t always the case. ALCOVA Mortgage can shop around to a variety of different lenders, loan programs, and underlying investors to find the loan that best suits your needs. They may even end up saving you money. Go with What Makes Sense for You Putting information online isn’t for everyone. If you don’t like the virtual mortgage process, seek out a loan officer who can meet with you in person. At ALCOVA, we pride ourselves on having the flexibility to work around your schedule—in person, on the phone or online. Contact us at alcovamortgage.com/ helmintoller-team or by phone at 540-962-7152 or 540-966-3393.

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Growing Up • March 2018

LFA Kids Consignment Event

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Go. Play. See.

March

From left to right: Hot Tuna performs at The Jefferson Center on March 30. A Chorus Line kicks off at the Mill Mountain Theater April 25 through May 13. Sip and relax at the Big Lick Beer Festival: For the Love of the Brew at Berglund Center on March 31. Enjoy a thrill at the PBR Velocity Tour at the Berglund Center April 13 and 14, and sing the night away with The Jersey Boys at the Berglund Center on March 6.

All Month Long

Psychedelic Saturdays Launchingpadsalem.com

Kid Yoga Lifeinbalancecenter.com

Winter Farmer’s Market wythevillefarmersmarket.com

8 PM to 10 PM at Launching Pad in Salem. Jump in lasers and blacklights and turn up the beat! All ages are welcome, $17 per person.

11 AM on first & third Saturday, at the Life in Balance Center in Christiansburg. Join us for a relaxing yoga class aimed at children ages 5-9. Classes are $8 each.

Every 2nd Saturday, Wytheville hosts a farmer’s market from 10 AM through noon. Family Fun Nights Amazementsquare.org The second Saturday of every month at Amazement Square in Lynchburg. Families are invited to enjoy family fun night at Amazement Square from 4 PM to 7 PM, when admission is just $3 per person.

Kids Make Art Hollins.edu/museum First Saturday of the month at 1 PM to 3 PM at Wetherill Visual Arts Center at Hollins University. Local artists and educators design and lead art- making projects and movementbased activities for participants of all ages. Free to attend.

Shakespeare’s Garden: An Immersive Sound Stroll Through his Sonnets, Soliloquies, and Scenes performingarts.vt.edu March 22 through 24 at the Moss Art Center at Virginia Tech. Free admission.

New River Valley Home Expo nrvhba.com/home-expo

LFA Kid’s Consignment Sale lfakids.com

March 9 through 11 at Christiansburg Recreation Center. Whether you are looking to build a brand-new home or remodel your current one, this is the place to be. Tickets are $5 per person, children 18 and under are free.

March 23-25 at the Berglund Center in Roanoke. Join us for the Roanoke Valley’s best and largest kids’ consignment event! FREE admission and parking. You won’t want to miss the tons of bargains for newborns to teens. Clothes, infant gear, toys, books, outdoor fun, and much, much more.

Hypnoptic Hula Hoop Fitness playroanoke.com 7 PM on Tuesdays, February 6 through March 13 at Grandin Court Baptist Church. $45 for 6 classes. Registration required.

Civil War Weekend townofbuchanan.com April 27 through 29. Enjoy a full day of family activities. Civil War era camps will open in the

See our full event calendar at growingupinthevalley.com/events

morning and remain open throughout the weekend. Special displays and reenactments highlight the life and times of the Civil War era and life in Buchanan. Enjoy guest speakers, period music, and costumed reenactors. Man of La Mancha fb.com/FerrumTheatreArts March 23-25 at Ferrum College. Tickets start at $5. Professional Bull Riders: Velocity Tour theberglundcenter.com April 13 through 14 at the Berglund Center in Roanoke. The PBR’s Real Time Pain Relief Velocity Tour is full of thrilling, adrenalinefilled, edge-of-your seat excitement! Tickets start at $17. A Chorus Line millmountain.org April 25 through May 13 at Mill Mountain Theatre in Roanoke. Tickets start at $20.

Saturday • March 3 A Special Evening with Montgomery Gentry LynchburgConcerts.com 6 PM at Phase 2 Dining & Entertainment in Lynchburg. Tickets start at $25 per person.

Tuesday • March 6 Jersey Boys theberglundcenter.com 7:30 PM at the Berglund Performing Arts Center in Roanoke. Tickets start at $37.

Thursday • March 8 1st Annual Fierce Films Festival mmzoo.org 6 PM to 8 PM at The Spot on Kirk in Roanoke. Calling all budding filmmakers! Mill Mountain Zoo is looking for 3-15 minute short film entries about animals, nature or conservation. Film submissions from all ages are welcome! One winner will be selected at the end of the screening and will win a Mill Mountain Zoo Gift Basket and Family Membership. Tickets are $15.00 for non-member adults and $12.00 for nonmember children. Tickets for Member adults are $12.00, and $9.00 for member children.

Broadway over the years with our own red carpet event. General Public: $12 and Full-Time Students: $8. Roanoke Youth Symphony Orchestra (540) 343-6221

Chicago uses 40 lbs of dye to turn their river green for the holiday

Circa: Carnival of Animals artscenter.vt.edu

New York City held their first St Patrick’s Day Parade in 1762.

2 PM at the Moss Arts Center at Virginia Tech. $20 general admission, $10 students with ID and children 18 and under. The Iron Giant thelyric.com 10 AM at the Lyric Theatre in Blacksburg. Enjoy a free showing of The Iron Giant.

Saturday • March 10

Thursday • March 15

Silver Screen Soiree Dance Party facebook.com/ SapphireBallroom

Spring Movie Series: “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” hollins.edu/events

7:30 PM at the Sapphire Ballroom & Dance Center in Christiansburg. At Sapphire, we’re going to celebrate all that wonderful dancing that’s come out of Hollywood and off

Saint Patrick’s Day Facts

2 PM at the Taubman Museum of Art. Come enjoy an afternoon at the museum and bask in the talents of Roanoke Youth Symphony Orchestra’s wonderful student musicians! Free event for the community.

7 PM at Frances Niederer Auditorium, Richard Wetherill Visual Arts Center in Hollins University. Sammy Miller And The Congregation jeffcenter.org

Saint Patrick was born in Britain in 387. (He was sold to Ireland as a slave in 403)

Saint Patrick’s Day wasn’t a national holiday in Ireland until 1903

Originally, supporters of Saint Patrick wore blue to signify their devotion.

Traditional corn beef and cabbage dinners originated in New York City.

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Go. Play. See. Friday • March 23 Cole Swindell theberglundcenter.com 7:30 PM at the Berglund Center in Roanoke Tickets start at $29.75. Maks, Val & Peta Live On Tour! theberglundcenter.com 7:30 PM at the Jefferson Center in Roanoke. Enjoy joyful jazz mixed with swing, roots and blues. $15 general admission.

Friday • March 16 Star Wars: The Last Jedi fb.com/VirginiaWestern 2 PM and 6 PM at the

Whitman Theater on Virginia Western Community College Campus. Enjoy a FREE showing of The Last Jedi.

8 PM at the Berglund Performing Arts Theatre in Roanoke. Tickets start at $49.

Tuesday • March 20

Saturday • March 24

Wizard of Oz theberglundcenter.com

4th Annual ForkA-Palooza Street Festival

7:30 PM at the Berglund Performing Arts Center. Tickets start at $32.

2 PM at Fork in the Alley in Roanoke.

Eat. Drink. Dance. Live Music by Love Canon, Miss Tess & the Talkbacks, and Dharma Bombs! Enjoy food by Fork in the Alley: burgers, pizza & dogs! Fun for the whole family! Tail Chaser 5k & 1 Mile Walk commonwealthgames.org 10 AM at the River’s Edge Greenway in Roanoke. $30 per racer, additional $10 for canine companion. Southwest Virginia Ballet Performance (540) 387-3978 2 PM at the Taubman Museum of Art. Come enjoy an afternoon at the museum and bask in the talents of the wonderful student

dancers of Southwest Virginia Ballet! The 2nd Annual Senses & Scienceability Festival jchs.edu/senses-andscienceability-2018 10 AM to 4 PM at Jefferson College and Taubman Museum of Art.

Sunday • March 25 Roanoke Wedding Crawl app.donorview.com/ kmlO You’ll see five different Downtown Roanoke wedding venues set up as actual wedding receptions, complete with full florals, decor, and catering. You’ll be able to talk

Saturday, March 17 Downtown Roanoke

One of th

s on the Eas n io t a r b e l e rick’s Day C g for details! t a P . t S t s e ke.or e larg Visit Downt

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ownRoano

Freedom First St. Patrick’s Day Parade - 11:00am Shamrock Festival - 12:00pm - 5:00pm Wells Fargo Plaza: Free Entry, Adult Beverages, Live Music

Freedom First Kids Zone - 12:00pm - 5:00pm Salem Ave: Free Entry, Games, Inflatables, & MORE

Corned Beef Celtic Celebration - Starts at 10:00am ®

Find some good luck on Friday the 13th with the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra: The Music of Journey. to DJs and musicians performing as they would at a wedding, taste wedding cakes, have fun in our photo booths, see the work of photographers and videographers, partake in hair and makeup demonstrations, get the latest trends in bridal gowns and wedding party attire and so much more. $15 per person in advance, $35 at the door.

Join us on Thursday, April 5 Elementary School Interactive Open House 4:00-6:00 p.m. Meet our faculty while your children explore interactive learning projects

Middle School Information Session

6:30 p.m. Bring your questions to this teacher-led discussion

R.S.V.P. to admissions@communityschool.net or call us at 540-563-5036 for more information.

Learn more at CommunitySchool.net/admissions Community School is progressive education for children ages 3 through middle school.

Monday • April 2 Light it Up Blue! braacroanoke.org 6 PM at Elmwood Park in Roanoke. Join the community for an evening of celebrating Autism Awareness and turning Roanoke BLUE! Bring a blanket and your picnic basket filled with your dinner and join the community for a picnic dinner and activities for the kids!

Saturday • April 7 Early Bird Craft Fair & Gardening Primer theearlybird.eventbrite.com

Monday • March 26 Hobby Lobby Grand Opening fb.com/events/ 886037701557857 9 AM at the NEW Hobby Lobby in Christiansburg. Come in to enjoy refreshments and shop at the new store!

Friday • March 30 Hot Tuna jeffcenter.org 8 PM at the Jefferson Center. Come enjoy Americana acoustic blues! Tickets start at $35.

Saturday • March 31 Eggs-travaganza! (540) 332- 3945 9 AM at the Soccer Complex in Montgomery Hall Park in Staunton. The festival will feature bounce houses, oldfashioned egg coloring, refreshments, arts and crafts, and more!

Mount Baptist Easter Egg Hunt mpbcroanoke.com/ easter-egg-hunt.html 11 AM at Mount Baptist Church in Roanoke. Bring your whole family and come check out our Easter egg hunt! There will be plenty of free candy, fun, and a hot dog lunch to follow. No matter the weather, meet us at Mount Pleasant Baptist for our annual Easter egg hunt! Big Lick’s Beer Fest For The Love Of The Brew theberglundcenter.com Featuring 20+ breweries showcasing only seasonal and rare selections and some debuts to our market! Join us for the best selection of beer, live music, great food, VIP options with early entry and food pairings, vendors and more, all benefiting Mountain View Humane. Admission is $30, $5 for designated drivers.

8 AM to 4 PM at 16 West Marketplace in downtown Roanoke. The fair will include gardening, craft, and urban homesteading demos and an outdoor street festival of vendors, locavore foods, seeds, seedlings, seed exchange, used garden gear tent, small farm animal education and more. Rain date for this fair is Saturday April 14th. This event is FREE and family friendly! 40th Annual Clean Valley Day cleanvalley.org This valley-wide clean-up promotes respect and care for the beautiful community we share. Pick your spot – a park, playground, roadside, stream bank, or your very own neighborhood and help get rid of the litter and make it a cleaner, healthier place for all. Please help us to keep our valley beautiful and its waterways clean. All volunteers are provided with trash bags and gloves. First 500 volunteers receive a free t-shirt.

Virginia Family Expo growingupinthevalley. com

Sunday• April 8 Diagon Valley’s Magical French Ballet & Dinner diagonvalley.org 6 PM at the Patrick Henry Ballroom. Come enjoy a magical

Thursday • April 12

Sunday • April 22

Sushi Making Class gourmetpantryonline.com

Wednesday • April 11

6 PM at Gourmet Pantry in Blacksburg. Learn how to make delicious and elegant sushi with a hands-on class. $75 per person.

The Roanoke Valley Children’s Choir Presents “A Little Spring Music” jeffcenter.org

2018 Senior Fun & Health Day salemciviccenter.com 10 AM at the Salem Civic Center. A fun-filled event for Seniors 55+! Enjoy live music, dance instruction, cooking demonstrations, bingo and more! Free event for our community’s seniors!

NATIONAL HOLIDAYS March 2

Read Across America

March 6

National Oreo Day

March 11

Daylight Saving Time Starts

March 12

Napping Day

March 17

St. Patrick’s Day

March 20

Spring Equinox

March 25 Waffle Day

March 31

National Crayon Day

April 1 Easter

Friday • April 13 Roanoke Symphony Orchestra: The Music of Journey salemciviccenter.com Reaching terrific retro-pop heights, it’s JOURNEY, fully orchestrated and performed by RSO’s friends and audience favorites J’nC. Tickets start at $42.

Saturday • April 14 Hello Trolley & New Work Featuring The Roanoke Youth Symphony jeffcenter.org 2 PM & 7 PM at the Jefferson Center in Roanoke. Conductor Charlie and his whimsical friends take a trolley ride through their hometown of Roanoke, revelling in the excitement and wonder of the world, from the everyday to the truly spectacular. Join Artistic Director Pedro Szalay, the Southwest Virginia Ballet, and the Roanoke Youth Symphony Orchestra for this joyous stage adaptation of Hello Trolley, the sensational children’s book by Roanoke author, Claudia Moore. Tickets start at $8 for children and $23 for adults.

1:30 PM and 4:30 PM at the Jefferson Center in Roanoke. Tickets start at $18.

Saturday • April 28 Rolling on the River Food Truck Rodeo visitradford.com 11 AM to 7 PM at Bisset Park in Radford. Come enjoy over 25 food trucks, live music, and fun activities for kids! Claytor Lake Ness Monster Obstacle Course Race runsignup.com/Race/ VA/Dublin/CLM 9 AM at Clayor Lake State Park in Dublin. This race is a challenging, but doable, obstacle course race featuring 3-4 miles of wild terrain and wicked obstacles. Families are welcome, but we ask that children 12 and under race with an adult. 13 and over will be at the discretion of the parent - please note that the course takes you through the woods and your child should be comfortable with navigating course markings. Sign up before April 11 to receive a t-shirt! Race registration starts at $25.

SEE OUR FULL CALENDAR OF EVENTS AT GROWINGUPINTHEVALLEY.COM/EVENTS

10 AM at the Salem Civic Center. Find the best the valley has to offer for your family, along with some entertainment for the little ones! Free to attend.

evening of dance with the French witchcraft academy! $30 per person, $20 for ages 12 and under.

THAN PINK

KOMEN VIRGINIA BLUE RIDGE

RACE FOR THE CURE® Saturday, April 14 Register & Donate: KomenVABlueRidge.org/Race

RIVER’S EDGE SPORT S COMPLEX - RESERVE AVE, ROANOKE

Need a Book? Take a Book! Have a Book? Leave a Book!

Star City Little Library A Wrinkle In Time Madeleine L’Engle Ages 12+

Soon to be a major motion picture, A Wrinkle in Time features Meg, who is part of an extraordinary family of gifted geniuses and athletes. But how come she feels like she doesn’t quite belong? Her teachers and classmates think she is troublesome and stubborn. But it’s Meg who will end up with the fate of the universe in her hands. Chicka Chicka Boom Boom

Bill Martin, Jr. and John Archambault, Ages 0+

The 26 lowercase letters climb a coconut tree in alphabetical order, until the tree bends so much that all 26 letters fall out. This book helps teach the alphabet to young readers, while also promoting colors, cause and effect, and handwriting skills.

The Tale of Peter Rabbit Beatrix Potter Ages 6+

Despite the current major motion picture’s attempt at modernizing this classic tale, Peter Rabbit is a generational favorite story. Mischievous Peter is warned not to enter the garden of Mr. McGregor, but his curiosity gets the better of him. He quickly learns that he should always listen to his wise mother, or deal with the consequences of his misbehavior. Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History Vashti Harrison Ages 4+

Featuring 40 biographies of trailblazing black women in American history, Harrison’s illustrations allow young readers to picture themselves as the historical figures they are learning about. The leaders in this book may be little, but they all did something big and amazing, inspiring generations to come.

Ready Player One Ernest Cline Ages 14+

Following the dystopian trend of young adult fiction, Ready Player One is set in the year 2044. It follows protagonist Wade Watts on his search for an Easter egg in a virtual reality game, the discovery of which will lead him to inherit a fortune in a world wrecked by an energy crisis. We’re Going On An Egg Hunt Laura Hughes Ages 0+

Join the Easter Bunnies as they set off on an exciting lift-the-flap Easter egg hunt. With ten eggs to find and count, it’s great fun. But watch out for the obstacles along the way - lambs, chicks, bees and ducks - and there’s even a wolfish surprise, so do take care. Little Library Locations:

Hometown Banks – 3521 Franklin Rd & 4225 Colonial Ave. Roanoke Ballet Theatre – 1318 Grandin Rd Launching Pad – 1300 Intervale Dr, Salem Lewis Gale Medical Center – 1900 Electric Rd, Salem Market Square North Shopping Center - Corner of Williamson and Peters Creek

Growing Up • March 2018

Build Your Own Playhouse The first step of the PLAY D.I.Y. Project is to build the base of the garden playhouse. Therefore, build the joists from 2×4 lumber and lock them together with 3” wood screws. Make sure the corners are right-angled, before driving in the screws.

When building the wall frames, leave enough space for a door opening, as well as for a window. Adjust their dimensions according to your need. Building the back wall is a straightforward job, as you need to use the same techniques described above. Cut the components at the right size with a meter saw before assembling the frame. Drill pilot holes in the plates and insert 3” screws in the studs.

Estimated Cost $300 Estimated Time 2 Days Materials A – 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber 96” long and 7 pieces of 2×4 lumber 45” long B – 1 sheet of 3/4″ tongue and groove plywood 4’×8’ C – 4 pieces of 2×2 lumber 94 1/2” long, 4 pieces of 2×2 lumber 43 1/2” C – 22 pieces of 2×2 lumber 45” long D – 150 sq ft 3/4” grooved plywood E– 14 pieces of 2×2 lumber 34” long – cut at 45º at both ends, 1 pieces of 2×2 lumber 94 1/2” F – 50 sq ft of 1/2” tongue and groove plywood G – 50 sq ft of tar paper H– 50 sq ft of asphalt shingles I – 100 ft of 1×3 lumber, 24 ft of 1×4 lumber

Next, you have to attach the flooring of the outdoor playhouse. We recommend you install a 4’×8’ sheet of 3/4” plywood, using 2” wood screw every 10”, along the joists.

The next step of the project is to build the wall frames and to fit them into place with 3 1/2” screws. Use 2×2 lumber to build the plates and the wall studs, as they are thick enough to make the whole structure rigid.

Supplies • 500 pieces of 2 1/2” screws • 500 pieces of 1 1/4” screws • tar paper, asphalt shingles • wood glue, stain/paint • wood filler

Upcoming Play D.I.Y: Garden Boxes

Growing Up • March 2018

Continue the project by building the side walls. As you can see in the plans, you need to frame a 16×16” window using 2×2 lumber. Adjust the size and the location of the window opening, according to your needs.

Next, you need to install the exterior siding and to secure it into place with 1 1/4” nails. We recommend you to use 3/4” plywood, as it is a good material for this purpose, but you could use thinner siding, as well. Cut the plywood sheets with a circular saw and cut out the openings using a jigsaw.

Attach the sheets to the walls, clamp them into place and insert the 1 1/4” nails. Ensure the siding sheets are flush with the edges of the frame. Building the roof of the outdoor playhouse isn’t as complicated as it might look at first glance, if you use the right plans. Cut the rafters at 45º at both ends before securing them to

Attach 3/4” plywood to the rafters and secure them with a 1 1/4” nail every 6”. Make sure the sheets are perfectly flush on all sides. Use tongue and groove plywood, as the sheets connect together easily. Cover the roof with tar paper and lock it into place with staples along the rafters. Next, install the asphalt

Building Tips: • Measure twice, cut once. • Check for right angles and level regularly.

the top plates with 2” wood screws. Make sure the rafters are perfectly equal and place them equally space, 16” apart. Fit the ridge board as in the image. Drive in 2” screws from the exterior in the ridge board. Secure the rafters to the ridge using 3” screws. Build all the trims, except the ones placed at the bottom of the playhouse, from 1×3 lumber. Sand the cut edges and the visible edges with medium-grit

shingles on the roof, starting with the left bottom of the roof, and secure them with a nail gun and appropriate nails. Last but not least, you have to fill the holes, the heads of the screws, and the gaps with a good filler. Let the compound dry out for several hours before sanding the surface with 120grit sandpaper.

• Pre-drill holes to prevent wood from splintering. • Wear eye protection. • Place your playhouse on level ground.

sandpaper. Insert 1 1/4” nails through the trims to lock them into place after aligning them properly at both ends.

Apply several coats of primer and water-resistant paint to protect the playhouse from rot.

• Add a window planter box or simple shelves within wall studs for outdoor toy storage.

The bottom trims, made of 1×4 lumber, will hide the joists, so make sure you use quality lumber. Round the top trims, around the door and windows, using a jigsaw.

All Points REALTORS Growing Up • March 2018

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

Monday

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Every Day

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

Growing Up • March 2018

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

Tuesday

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

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

Wednesday

• Dogwood 4 PM - Close • 10 & under, per paid adult 106 E. Lee Ave., Vinton (540) 343-6549 • Pizza Pasta Pit 4 PM - 9 PM • 1 child per paid adult. Drink not included. 1713 Riverview Dr., Salem (540) 387-2885 • The Quarter All Day • 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult 19 Salem Ave., Roanoke (540) 342-2990

Thursday

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

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

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

Friday See Everyday Deals!

Saturday

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

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

Sunday

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

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

If you're expecting a sweet new baby in 2018, make chiropractic part of your prenatal health routine! Moms under prenatal chiropractic care report:

Shorter labor time fewer birth interventions Better sleep in pregnancy Better energy less low back discomfort little to no round ligament pain decreased sciatica symptoms And More! Chernichky Family Chiropractic www.cfchirova.com | 540.591.3535

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

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

Growing Up • March 2018

Parent of the Month

Amber Jefferson

Mother from Roanoke, VA

“Be the parent today that you want your kids to remember tomorrow.” -Anonymous

Nominate a Parent of the Month by emailing Tracy@growingupinthevalley.com

Expires March 31, 2018

Growing Up • March 2018

Education Guide DAY CARE - Pre-K - K-12 Private Schools - For Listings email andrea@growingupinthevalley.com

SOUTH COUNTY ROANOKE CATHOLIC SCHOOL

621 N. Jefferson St. Roanoke 540-982-3532 www.roanokecatholic.com Ages: 3-18, Preschool, After School, Private School K-6, Private School MS-HS We are dedicated to excellence in education and to the spiritual development of youth within the framework of the Gospel and the tradition of the Catholic Church. Our mission is the education of the whole person, blending learning with faith and faith with daily life.

CHILDCARE NETWORK

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

COUNTRY BEAR DAY SCHOOL

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

FAITH CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

3585 Buck Mountain Road, Roanoke 540-769-5200 www.fcsva.com Ages: 4-19, Preschool, After School, Private School K-6, Private School MS-HS We are one of fewer than 200 school across the nation implementing a powerful & proven classical method of education that for over 2,000 years has developed some of the world’s finest authors, scientists, mathematicians, artists, philosophers, theologians & composers. At Faith Christian School students are encouraged to love God and be captivated by His created world. Check out our new indexed tuition program~private education may be more affordable than you think!

GRANDIN COURT BAPTIST CHURCH

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

HONEYTREE EARLY LEARNING CENTER 2660 Brambleton Avenue, Roanoke 540-524-2491 2660 Brambleton Avenue, Roanoke 540-524-2491

www.HoneyTreeELC.com Ages: 2-5, Preschool HoneyTree Early Learning Centers is the leading Early Childhood Provider in the Roanoke Valley for children ages 6 weeks through 12 years of age. We are locally-owned and operated and have been serving generations of families since 1979. Expect your child to receive the best, quality educational experience. We hope to have the opportunity to provide you and your family with all the pieces for a happy, healthy childhood! Growing Up • March 2018

NORTH CROSS

4524 Colonial Avenue, Roanoke 540-989-6641 www.northcross.org Ages: 3-18, Preschool, Private School K-12 North Cross School is an independent, nonsectarian, college-preparatory school that serves children from early childhood through twelfth grade. North Cross provides a rigorous academic curriculum, competitive with the best college-preparatory schools in the Commonwealth of Virginia. While we explicitly recognize the importance of intellectual development and academic achievement, we also strive to promote personal integrity, empathy, and responsibility to self and community. Through this, our graduates will act as leaders in the local and global communities, persons of intellectual and moral courage, and scholars in the service of others.

GRANDIN GRANDIN COURT BAPTIST CHURCH

NOAH’S LANDING PRESCHOOL

2011 Brandon Avenue, SW, Roanoke 540-982-2254 www.noahslandingpreschool.com Ages: 12 Months - 5 Yrs, Preschool Noah’s Landing Preschool offers Mother’s Morning Out (MMO) as well as classes for 2, 3, and 4 year olds (Pre-K). Space is limited due to small pupil/teacher ratio per class. Our program runs from Labor Day to Memorial Day from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Monday Thursday. We have an early drop-off at 8:30 am and an extended day Lunch Bunch program during the week until 1:00 pm for additional fees. Our philosophy of education is based on the belief that children learn and grow best through hands on experiences.

HOLLINS ROANOKE VALLEY CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS

7060 Williamson Road, Roanoke 540-366-2432 ext. 119 www.rvcs.info Ages: Preschool (2-4), Kindergarten to Grade 12, Before/After School Care, Standard and Advanced Diploma Tracks, Resource Program, Private Christian Education Roanoke Valley Christian Schools (RVCS) was established in 1973 by Shenandoah Baptist Church and now recognizes over 1,200 alumni. Its mission is to develop disciples of Christ who will influence the world for the glory of God. RVCS accomplishes this through a partnership with each family. We serve preschool, age2 through grade 12 and offer both an advanced program and resource program that can come alongside each student’s individual needs. Come check us out!

SOUTHVIEW PRESCHOOL

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

COMMUNITY SCHOOL

7815 Williamson Road, Roanoke 540-563-5036 www.communityschool.net Ages:3-14, Preschool, Private School K-8 Founded in 1971, Community School is an independent, non-profit institution. We provide education of the highest quality for children of all racial, cultural, religious, and economic backgrounds. Community School provides a program that is unique in the Roanoke Valley and a rarity statewide, a haven for those who value experiential education over standardized test results. Our school nurtures children’s individual learning styles and fosters creative and analytical thinking. Our students develop personal responsibility for their education and a passion for learning.

BONSACK BONSACK BAPTIST PRESCHOOL

4845 Cloverdale Road, Roanoke 540-977-0485 www.bonsackpreschool.com Ages: 2.5-11Yrs, Preschool, Afterschool Bonsack Preschool/After School is a faith based, developmentally appropriate program focused on Kindergarten Readiness for preschoolers, half and full day. After School Care for Bonsack, Cloverdale and Colonial Elementary Schools offered with priority on gym time, devotions, creativity and homework completion. Summer Camps available for both Elementary and Preschool

HONEYTREE EARLY LEARNING CENTER

1980 Electric Road, Salem 2111 Roanoke Road, Salem 540-769-2300, 540-344-6811 www.HoneyTreeELC.com Ages: 2-5, Preschool HoneyTree Early Learning Centers is the leading Early Childhood Provider in the Roanoke Valley for children ages 6 weeks through 12 years of age. We are locally-owned and operated and have been serving generations of families since 1979. Expect your child to receive the best, quality educational experience. We hope to have the opportunity to provide you and your family with all the pieces for a happy, healthy childhood!

SALEM MONTESSORI

107 Corporate Blvd., Salem 540-387-1521 www.salemmontessori.org Ages: 6 Wks-6th Grade, Preschool Salem Montessori School - Bringing Joy to Learning! Children are eager, spontaneous learners, curious about the world around them. The primary goal of a Montessori education is to help every child reach their full potential in all areas of life. Research shows that children learn best in an environment that encourages them to explore, create, and discover without fear of making mistakes, or being teased. In a classroom at Salem Montessori School, children are encouraged to ask questions, develop ideas, and learn at their own pace. Learning is active and fun! Montessori educated children become self-confident young people, who face future challenges with optimism and who enjoy a lifetime love of learning!

CHILDREN’S CASTLE

3743 Challenger Avenue, Roanoke 540-977-1282 www.childrenscastleearlylearningcenter.com Ages: Birth-12 Yrs, Preschool, Daycare, Afterschool We offer social development, preschool education, and after school enrichment for our community in a safe and engaging atmosphere. Our experienced and educated teachers foster and build upon children’s natural interest and curiosity to teach and engage them within their environment and surrounding community. Our curriculum builds upon the Virginia Foundation Blocks of Early Learning to fully prepare children to be successful upon entering Elementary School.

ROANOKE ADVENTIST PREPARATORY SCHOOL

4120 Challenger Avenue, Roanoke 540-798-6061 www.rapschool.org Private School: K –8 Roanoke Adventist Preparatory School (RAPS) has been offering quality Christian education at family-friendly prices in the Roanoke area for over 75 years. RAPS mission is to foster academic excellence, passionate spirituality and outstanding character in each student. Our school is a small classroom environment where students receive grade-level appropriate individualized instruction. RAPS is fully accredited and key learning standards are available by grade level. Tuition rates are highly competitive and scholarship opportunities are available.

SALEM ST. ANNES EPISCOPAL DAY SCHOOL

42 E. Main Street, Salem 540-389-4087 http://www.stpaulssalem.org/stannes Ages: 18 Months -5, Preschool St. Anne’s curriculum is based on developmental learning and the Virginia Foundation Blocks of Early Learning. We are dedicated to the total development of each child; intellectual, spiritual, social, and physical. Our desire is that each child knows that he/ she is loved and accepted. Registration is now open for the 2017-2018 school year! Call today to register or schedule a tour!

WESLEYAN PRESCHOOL

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

VINTON HONEYTREE EARLY LEARNING CENTER

1918 Washington Avenue, Vinton 540-890-7200 www.HoneyTreeELC.com Ages: 2-5, Preschool HoneyTree Early Learning Centers is the leading Early Childhood Provider in the Roanoke Valley for children ages 6 weeks through 12 years of age. We are locally-owned and operated and have been serving generations of families since 1979. Expect your child to receive the best, quality educational experience. We hope to have the opportunity to provide you and your family with all the pieces for a happy, healthy childhood!

NORTHWEST GREENVALE SCHOOL

627 Westwood Blvd. NW, Roanoke 540-342-4716 www.greenvale-school.org Ages:3-5, Preschool Greenvale School’s mission is to provide affordable, accessible, top-quality, developmentally appropriate childcare and educational services for children of working parents, according to each family’s ability to pay. By promoting the highest standards of education and responsible behavior, Greenvale School’s program cultivates the growth of each child to his or her full potential. By providing a comprehensive range of services, Greenvale School supports parents’ efforts to build a secure and prosperous future for their families.

SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE HONEYTREE EARLY LEARNING CENTER

7000 Booker T. Washington Hwy., Wirtz 540563-1724 www.HoneyTreeELC.com Ages: 2-5, Preschool HoneyTree Early Learning Centers is the leading Early Childhood Provider in the Roanoke Valley for children ages 6 weeks through 12 years of age. We are locally-owned and operated and have been serving generations of families since 1979. Expect your child to receive the best, quality educational experience. We hope to have the opportunity to provide you and your family with all the pieces for a happy, healthy childhood!

Growing Up • March 2018

Find the way out of the maze!

Fill in the names of the objects in the pictures!

Growing Up â&#x20AC;˘ March 2018

summer camps

Summer is coming.

We’re ready. Are you?

ity

Build Creativ

Make Friends Explore Art

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

North Cross School’s Summer Programs offer a wide variety of athletic, outdoor, creative, and academic day camps for children in preschool through ninth grade—all summer long. Our schedule is flexible and built around yours, with morning and afternoon care. Now, with online registration, we’ve made it even easier to win summer.

Online catalog and registration makes it easy: www.northcross.org/ summer-programs.html

Win summer. 4254 Colonial Avenue Roanoke, VA · 540-989-7299 www.northcross.org

Connect the dots to complete the picture! 54

Growing Up â&#x20AC;˘ March 2018

February’s Mrs. Jennifer Hannah

CTE Agriculture Education Teacher At Central Academy Middle School In Fincastle Nominated By Co-Worker, Emily Gordon FACTS: • Heads the National FFA organization at her school • Very involved with school community service projects • Part of doing the landscaping/fish pong outside the school, food drives, and fruit sales. • She has been teaching for 16 years.

“I want to be like her when I grow up because she’s just all smiles and I love that about her,” -Emma Harrell, 8th grade student

Mrs. Amy Crawford

P.E. Teacher At Burlington Elementary School In Roanoke Nominated By Her Sister, Katherine Lawson FACTS: • Head coach for the Northside High School volleyball team • Teaching for 18 years • Grew up in Roanoke County schools and now teaches in them. • Her mom was a teacher, dad was a P.E. teacher too.

“Amy’s just a great individual, aside from the teaching and aside from the coaching, she is just a great person. She’s a wonderful mother and she’s always been a great sister to me,” -Katherine Lawson, Crawford’s sister

Mrs. Lisa Wilson

1st Grade Teacher At Big Island Elementary School In Big Island Nominated By Her Teaching Partner/Former Mentee, Haley Wissinger FACTS: • Has been teaching for 23 years • 19 years at Big Island • Has taught all elementary school grades except 2nd and 5th • Will graduate with her Masters in May • Also works as a server at Liberty Station.

“She has a heart for this. You can tell. She’s been doing this for a really long time and she still puts her all into it and pours everything into this and its her life,” -Haley Wissinger, teaching partner

Growing Up • March 2018

Mrs. Annette Patterson

Special Education Teacher/Head Of New Program That Used To Be Called College For Living Nominated By Her Paraprofessional, Kathy Severs

“She’s doing great things, I’m with the students every single day and I get tired, for her to do what she does, its just amazing, It’s her love. You can tell that’s where she’s geared from, its the love for it.” - Kathy Servers “I want to be with them, I want to help them succeed. When they succeed, I’ve succeeded, I’ve done my job,” - Mrs. Patterson

Discover more A+ Educators at www.virginiafirst.com and Tuesdays at 10 PM on WFXR.

Join Growing Up in the Valley at

Royal Ball The

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

Growing Up • March 2018

a t h t w o n K u o g for your entire fa n i h y t y r e mily! ev d s i a D Expo h The

Discover the best of what

Southwest Virginia has to offer!

Growing Up In the Valley’s

Virginia

April 7

10 AM

Salem Civic Center

Family Expo

Growing Up • March 2018

What is an allergy? Allergies happen when the part of the body that fights off illnesses, the immune system, overreacts to a usually harmless substance that is eaten, breathed in, injected, or touched. An allergy is not a disease but a description of a way the immune system reacts.

What causes allergies? • Pollens from trees, grasses, and weeds • Molds (both indoor & outdoor) • Dust mites that live in bedding, carpeting, and other items that hold moisture • Animal dander from animals such as cats, dogs, horses, and rabbits

article by: Dr. Gard, Physicians to Children

Do drug treatments help? There are many medicines to treat allergic conditions. Medicines include antihistamine pills or syrup, eye drops, nose sprays, asthma treatments, and creams or ointments. Most are available over the counter. Before using any allergy medicines, carefully read the

warnings on the label. If any of these medicines does not relieve your child’s symptoms, call your pediatrician.

How can I help my child? • Keep windows closed during the pollen season, especially on dry, windy days when pollen counts are highest • Keep the house clean and dry to reduce mold and dust mites • Avoid having pets and indoor plants • Avoid those things that you know cause allergic reactions in your child

How can I tell if symptoms are from allergies or a cold? • An itchy, runny nose with thin, clear nasal discharge • Itchy, watery eyes • No fever • Repeated sneezing and itching of the nose, eyes, or skin that last for weeks

This spring you want smiles

Not Sneezes!

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

Learn about our services & providers at physicianstochildren.com Growing Up • March 2018

MAY 20, 2018 | 1 PM - 5 PM GAMES

CHARACTERS

ANIMALS

$10 | All-Access Wristband FREE | Children One & Under

540.342.5733 | One Market Square, Downtown Roanoke

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