Growing Up In the Valley April 2015

Growing UpIn The Valley

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 F a m i l y R e s o u r c e

Volume 3 , I s sue 8 | Apr i l 2 0 1 5 | F REE

Eating on the Go

A Guide To Healthy Fast Food

Project Faith

Raising Money Through Community Service

Kids GetArthritis Too

How Maddie Is Spreading Awareness Through The Valley

Each week campers will be visiting a different country that activities will be themed around.

Campers will use teamwork & new skills learned as they face pit-stops, challenges, and detours along the way!

Get your Boarding Pass earlyfor an adventurous summer!

10 Weeks of Summer FunAges 6 - 12 years old

540-344-4543HoneyTreeELC.com

Camp Open House

Thursday, April 16

5:00 - 6:30 pm

Attend for Registration Specials!

Visit our website for details.

This year’s theme is…

1889 A gift from

Mrs. Thomas Fortune Ryan

funds construction of a two-story red brick building.

1931 St. Andrew’s

constructs new high school

building, which today houses grades PK-2.

1950 Our Lady of Nazareth

and St. Andrew’s schools consolidate

to form Roanoke Catholic High.

1961 High school building and gymnasium are

constructed.

1973 All elementary grades

on the grounds of St. Andrew’s are brought together to form Roanoke

Catholic Elementary.

1980 Kindergarten is

added.

1985 Elementary and high schools are merged

into a K-12 unit.

1993 Preschool is added. It offers partial and full-day programs for ages

3, 4 and 5.

1994 Football team wins

first state championship.

1999 A multipurpose

building with classrooms, media

center, administrative complex, chapel,

science labs and new cafeteria is added.

2000 Old Upper School

building is remodeled.

2012 Lower School

building undergoes energy efficiency

renovation.Upper School Gym-nasium is renovated.

2014 Upper School

building undergoes renovation. Football team wins 2nd state

championship.

2015 Roanoke Catholic celebrates its 125th

year.

Celebrating Our 125th YearApril 23, 1PM - 5PM

Open HouseApril 22, 10AM- 2PM

www . r o a n o k e c a t h o l i c . c om

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

We reserve the right to refuse or edit any mate-rials 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 Growingupinthe-valley.com are published by MoFat Publishing. Growing Up In the Valley is published monthly. The views and the opinions expressed by the writ-ers 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 respon-sibility 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 pro-fessional 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. © Copyright 2015 MoFat Media

PublisherJosh [email protected] and Evelyn’s Dad

EditorAndrea [email protected] and Evelyn’s Mom

Creative DirectorTracy [email protected] and Evelyn’s Mom

SalesDee [email protected]’s Mom

Community RelationsShelley [email protected] and Tucker’s Mom

DistributionLeigh Anne [email protected]

Writers

Photographers

April ColliniTeresa MartinAmanda PowersRachel Robinson

Jessica Farmer Amanda Robinson

Daniel Castillo Marisa VitulliBrad Tomlinson

Laura WadeKim Castner Katie LewisHeidi Blackwelder

Interns

Growing UpIn The ValleyFromthe Editor

We Won! We are so proud to have won two design awards at the 2015 Parenting Meida As-sociation’s Awards Banquet! We have worked tirelessly over the past three years to bring you, our fellow parents, the BEST parenting information, ideas and tips available and we are honored to be recognized by our peers as one of the TOP publications in the country.

As the only parenting magazine in Southwest and Central Virginia we reach far and wide, touching the lives of teachers, parents and children from Radford to Lynchburg! To

celebrate our victory, we wanted to share it with you, the parents that

read our mag-zine every month by

giving back... to you! We

have AMAZING

prizes for you and your family to win, check them out below!

We would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who supports us. We

love what we do and we are proud to call you neighbors! We also would like to thank our

sponsors, who pay for this publication. Please support them and let them know you heard

about them through us!

Enjoy our best issue yet and enjoy the Spring Weather...Finally! - The Eagan Family

Phone: 540-251-1660Fax: 540-808-1568Mail: 2116 Colonial Avenue, Roanoke, VA 24015To Reach the Editor: [email protected] Request Magazines: [email protected] Advertise: [email protected] Submit An Event: [email protected] Inquiries: [email protected]

Contact Us

fTP

Facebook.com/[email protected]/Gupinthevalley

We Won & You Can Too!To celebrate our win at the 2015 Parenting Media Association Awards

we are hosting four contests for our readers!3rd Annual Color the Cover Contest

Send in your cover design for a chance to win an iPad Mini! Full rules & details at growingupinthevalley.com/color-cover-contest

Talent Search Photo ContestWe had a great turn out at our Talent Search, and now you can vote on the

photos at growingupinthevalley.com/talent-search-voteStrawberry Festival Contest

Throughout the pages of this issue you will see a strawberry. Email [email protected] with the page number of every

strawberry you can find to be entered for a chance to win tickets to the Strawberry Festical May 1 & 2!

(Psst. This is the first one!)

Weekly Winsday GiveawaysEvery week we giveaway prizes on our Facebook Page! We have given away tickets to local shows, VIP passes

to fundraisers, Gift Cards to Starbucks, Barnes & Noble, iTunes & More! Make sure to follow us on Facebook to

have a chance to win every week.

GUITV staff at PMA Awards with PMA President Sarah Taylor

In This Issue:

Education22 Surviving Spring Fever

How to keep kids focused on school when spring blooms.

Family Living

24 Sandwiches with a SmileSilly faces for your snacks.

12 It’s a Money ThingDebunking Credit Score Myths

16 Facing ImpossibilityTriumphing over life’s difficulties.

32 D.I.Y Paper Flower BouquetThe Guide

35 Family CalendarThe biggest and best local event calendar

34 Kids Eat FreeFind out all the details where kids

dine for free!

Kidz Corner29 Kid’s Games

Solve a puzzle, tell a joke & read a story!

30 Adventures of Eliza & JoeyThe Story continues with

Joey & Eliza in King Arthur’s Court

Features14 Eat Healthy On the Go!

Choose the healthiest option when eating at fast food chains.

18 Project FaithLocal Private School earns

money for its students through community service.

Health40 Orthodontist at 7Why you need to have your

children’s teeth checked so early

26 Hey Doc!Our healthcare panelists

answer your questions!

On the Cover: Madilyn Spichek, Age 5Photo by Stefanie Weber

18

32

School closings,weather forecasts,

health reportsand more.

All in one place.

For the latest on-the-go:

Kimberly McBroom,WDBJ7 Anchor

SMALL

TALK Arthritis Foundation • Date Night Ideas • Book & Film Reviews

Bricks 4 Kidz, located in the 23rd Street Shoppes at Towers

Mall, is under new ownership and excited to announce that

lots of updated programing is being scheduled. At the Creativity Center and through mobile programs around the Roanoke Valley, Bricks 4 Kidz offers STEM-principled edu-cational activities for children ages 3-13, where they learn, build and play with LEGO® Bricks in after-school classes, week-long summer camps,

birthday parties, preschool classes and Kidz Nights Out. These programs provide a safe, relaxed learning environment where initiative is invited and self-expres-sion is celebrated. Model building provides opportunities

for problem-solving and helps kids develop an appreciation for how things work. Be sure

and watch the Bricks 4 Kidz website and Facebook page for exciting grand re-opening special events and go online to register for a summer camps today at

www.bricks4kidz.com/roanoke.

UPDATE: Maddie, from our January feature, “Meet Maddie”, continued to have very active arthritis in her knees, ankles, wrists and fingers and was in pain. A new treatment plan was discussed and Madilyn has started a new journey with monthly infusions. Maddie has so many things to be thankful for and to look forward to this year. She turned 5 in March and celebrated her birthday with a bowling party. The amazing part is just how thoughtful she is as she asked her friends not to bring her presents but to bring a bag of dog or cat food for local animals that need food. Madilyn ended up collecting 119lbs of dog and cat food and donated it to Angels of Assisi.

Bricks 4 Kidz | 1060 23rd Street | Roanoke, VA 24015www.bricks4kidz.com/virginia-roanoke-salem

540.380.2485 | [email protected]

At our Creativity Center, and through mobile programs around theRoanoke Valley, we offer STEM-principled educational play activities for children ages 3-13+, to learn, build and play with LEGO® Bricks in after-school enrichment classes, week-long summer camps, birthday parties, preschool classes and Kidz Nights Out.

Dinner + MovieA classic date night staple! A long, kids-free dinner and movie that doesn’t involve a talking animal is a parent’s dream date! GUITV’s personal favorite combo is a pizza at Grace’s (The fanciest pizza place in town!) then a movie next door at the Grandin Theatre. End the night with a cupcake from Viva La Cupcake down the street and you’ll have a perfect date!Average Cost: $60

Coffee + Walk Sometimes a date doesn’t have to be a big event. Sometimes it nice to just have some time to be alone together without a child interupting your every thought! Stroll down the Greenway by River’s Edge Sports Complex and enjoy one another’s company. There are several bench-es and beautiful views of the river, and it’s an gentle walk for all fitness levels. Don’t forget to stop by Sweet Donkey Coffee House for a pastry and coffee.Average Cost: $15

Dessert + ShowSo many couples think that going to live theatre is too expensive for a simple date night; that they should only go for anniversaries or birthdays because those are special occasions. In reality, a live theatre ticket can cost the same as a movie ticket and con-cessions. Mill Mountain Theatre shows a wide variety of shows and musical events and is located right next to the City Market (and our favorite snow-cone place- Bayou’s Snowballs!)Average Cost: $60

Rental + Take OutWhy pay for a babysitter when you can wait for the kids to go to sleep and just enjoy a rented movie or old favorite and some yummy food? Great thing about ordering late is how fast you can get your food and you don’t feel guilty about just ordering your favorite appetizers. Try out FetchVir-ginia.com they deliver from dozens of restaurants until 10pm most nights.Average Cost: $25

Date Night Ideas

540-525-7671

$5/Session

www.PlayFitStayFit.net

classes for kids ages 5-13

[email protected]

SMALL

TALK

Is my child on track? Complete an Ages & Stages Questionnaire

via the Smart Beginnings Greater Roanoke Family Access Page

Because your child's first 5 years of life are so important, we want to help you provide the best start for your child. The Ages & Stages Questionnaires, Third Edition (ASQ-3), can help you keep track of your child's development, ages birth-5.

The ASQ-3 includes questions about your child's communication, motor, problem solving, and personal social skills. .Once the ASQ is completed,

SBGR will send you the results, along with age-appropriate activities for optimal development. If the results indicate any

areas of concern, you will be provided with additional information and resources available to parents with

young children in the Roanoke & New River Valley.

To get started, visit www.asqonline.com/family/f51923 or call #540-777-4211 New in 2015 - FREE Developmental Screenings will also be held each month at the Roanoke Main Library!

We offer a Christian preschool in a warm and loving atmosphere. We are dedicated to the total development of each child - intellectual, spiritual, social, and physical. Our goal is to have each child be successful and challenged as they grow and develop, secure in the knowledge that they are loved and accepted.

St. Anne’s Episcopal Day School offers:• half-day classes for children 18 months to 5 years of age

• a Parent’s Day Out program for children 18 to 30 months of age• small classes with experienced, caring teachers

Located next to the Salem Public LibraryA Ministry of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

Call (540) 389-4087 for more information!

4078 Electric Road Roanoke VA 24018

360 Arbor DriveChristiansburg VA 24072

Reviews

Big Hero 6 2014directed by Don Hall and Chris Wil-liams

Hiro is a 14-year-old robotics prodigy who spends most of his time gambling in underground robot fights. When his illegal hobby leads to yet another run-in with the law, his older broth-er Tadashi decides to intervene. Tadashi is enrolled in the robotics program at the local university, and hoping to motivate Hiro, he takes him on a tour of school’s robotics lab. Tadashi’s own latest project is Baymax, a lovable, inflatable robot designed to be your person-al healthcare companion. Hiro is sufficiently in-spired after a look at what goes on in the lab, and he decides to apply to the school.

When he presents his micro-bots idea at the next robotics expo for prospective students,

the audience is thoroughly impressed, including both Professor Callaghan, the head of the robotics program, and Alistair Krei, the president of Krei Tech. Krei promptly offers to buy Hi-ro’s microbots, but Hiro declines. And then disaster strikes and Hiro’s life is changed forever.After the fire, Hiro locks himself in his room for weeks, silent and depressed.

He stumbles upon Baymax one day after stubbing his toe, and shortly afterwards he uncovers

a startling truth: his micro-bots weren’t destroyed in

the explosion like he’d assumed. Someone has

stolen them.

In an effort to recover his stolen property, Hiro de-cides to team up with Baymax and four of Tadashi’s

robotics friends. He finds purpose in the

possibility of revenge and throws himself into creat-

ing state-of-the-art armor and gadgets for his team, not

thinking about the consequences his

actions will have if he is successful. But Baymax gently shows him that revenge is almost always a dish best served not at all.

Big Hero 6 is a funny, touching story about a moving on after tragedy and accepting help from others.

Paper Towns by John GreenGrades 9 and up

As kids, Quentin and Margo were best friends. They grew apart over the years, as Margo steadily climbed the social ladder of high school while Q stayed near the bottom with the band geeks. But when Margo shows up at Q’s window one night, dressed like a ninja and needing a getaway driv-er, he doesn’t think twice. Because even though they don’t speak much anymore, he has always held a torch for his beautiful, fearless next door neighbor.

And that’s how the longest night of his life begins. Margo enlists Q’s help as she exacts revenge in the form of pranks on all the people who have

Reviews by Heidi Blackwelder

SMALL

TALK

& Films

Powerful Proven Affordable

Faith Christian Schoolfcsva.com

540.769.5200 x148

A Distinctively Christian & classical JK-12 Education

Our expectations are high for our grandchildren. The peaceful atmosphere, Christian education,

dedicated teachers, small classes and classical approach is why we are committed to Faith Christian School.

~ Dawn & Eddie Hearp

OUR GRANDCHILDREN WILL BE READY

wronged her in recent weeks, including her unfaithful boyfriend and the two girls who she thought were her best friends.

After loving Margo for as long as he can remember, Q thinks things might finally looking up for him. But the next morning, Margo doesn’t show up at school. And then she doesn’t show up all week. Nobody is too concerned because she has a history of running away, but this time feels different to Q. More permanent. And then he sees the clue in her window, and Q starts the race against the clock to solve the impossible puzzle Margo has left for him.

From award-winning author John Green comes this brilliant YA novel that is for once not about the love story, but about learning to imagine the complex-ity of others.

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day 2014directed by Miguel Arteta

On the eve of his twelfth birthday, Alexander feels like the only member of his family with problems. First he wakes up with gum stuck in his hair, then he finds out no one is coming to his birthday party because a popular kid at school has decided to throw a party at the same time! Meanwhile, the rest of his family members seem to be leading perfect lives. His older brother is dating the most popular girl in school, his theatrical sister got the lead role in her school musical, his mom is up for a big promotion at her publishing company, and his unemployed dad has a promising job interview tomorrow.

Alexander wishes that just once, his family would understand. That just once, they’d know what it feels like to have a bad day. Little does he know that the birthday wish granters are listening…

The next morning, his sister wakes up with a cold, his brother’s girlfriend has dumped him on prom night, his mom’s car won’t start, the baby’s favorite pacifier has disappeared down the gar-bage disposal, and the babysitter for during his dad’s interview has called in sick. As the day goes on, things

continue to get worse for everyone but Alexander. The boy who was throwing the other party even comes down with the chicken pox! Alexander isn’t sure this is what he meant when he wished his family understood...

While somewhat cheesy and slightly over-the-top, I was actually surprised at how much I enjoyed this movie. Steve Carell and Jennifer Garner are hilarious in this silly, even a little heartwarming, story about the impor-tance of family.

Coming Out Soon:JUNE12th - Pixar’s Inside Out 19th - Jurassic World

JULY10th - Minions17th - Ant-Man24th - Paper Towns, Pan

AUGUST7th - Fantastic Four21st - Max

Growing Up In the Valley • April 201512

PAYMENT HISTORY Making payments on time boosts your score

CAPACITY The less you use of your total available credit each month, the better

LENGTH OF CREDIT A longer history of good credit habits raises your score

NEW CREDIT Opening lots of new credit cards in a short amount of time can hurt this part of your score

MIX OF CREDIT A mix of revolving credit (credit cards) and installment loans (mortgages; car loans) boosts your score

Credit scores are an area of personal finance that seem a lot more mys-terious than they actually are. Many people believe that improving them is a matter of trial and error, and as a result there’s a lot of “credit score advice” floating around that can end up doing more harm than good. Four common credit score myths have been rounded up and debunked below.

MYTH #1: You have no controlThere are a lot of factors that make this myth easy to buy into—credit bu-reaus keep their exact credit score for-mulas a secret, you can’t access your credit report whenever you’d like (not for free, anyway), and it’s possible to be financially stable and still have a miserable score. It’s okay to find credit scores confusing, but if you have an ac-companying “there’s nothing I can do about it” mentality, ditch it right now! Your credit score is a reflection of your borrowing and repayment behaviours, and that means you have a lot more control over it than you think.

MYTH #2: There’s a “quick fix”Though junk mail and late night commercials try and convince you otherwise, boosting your credit score doesn’t happen overnight. The good news is that the things you can do to positively influence your score are simple and don’t require a lot of time (or even that much effort!)—but the tradeoff is that you’ll have to be pa-tient while waiting for your new good credit habits to take effect. Your credit score is more of a track record than a snapshot, so consistency is key.

MYTH #3: Checking my credit report negatively affects my scoreThis myth comes from confusing two different types of credit score inqui-ries: hard inquiries and soft inquiries. Hard inquiries are made by lenders or credit card companies when you apply for a new line of credit (a loan, a new credit card or a mortgage, for exam-ple). Soft inquiries are made by you or by others for background check purpos-es (a potential employer or landlord, for example). Because hard inquiries suggest you might be taking on more

credit soon, they usually lower your score by a few points. Soft inquiries, on the other hand, do not affect your credit score in any way. This means you have nothing to lose by accessing your own score—in fact, doing so will help you understand what your current credit activity looks like and how you can improve it.

Sidenote: there are some situations (like renting a car or a landlord running a credit check) where either a hard inquiry or a soft inquiry can be made. In these cases, it’s a good idea to find out beforehand what kind of inquiry will be made so that you know what to expect.

MYTH #4: Opening or closing a bunch of credit cards will improve my scoreEven though these myths are the com-plete opposites of each other, they’re still widespread—and very misleading. This is because opening and closing credit cards affect several different aspects of your credit score.

Debunking Credit Score Myths

How is your credit score calculated?

Provided by Laurissa Grubb from Blue Eagle Credit Union

April 2015 • growingupinthevalley.com 13

No need to chicken out.

BlueEagleCreditUnion.com | [email protected] | 540.342.3429 or 800.342.3429Bl E l C ditU i | Bl E l @Bl E l C ditU i | 540 342 3429 800 342 3429

We offer affordable home improvement solutions.

Opening new credit cards gives you more available credit, which in turn lowers your credit utilization ratio (a fancy term for the amount of available credit you actually use each month. If you have one credit card with a $1,000 limit and charge $200 to your credit card that month, your utilization is 20%). Lowering your credit utilization ratio is a good thing, so opening new credit cards to boost your score might seem like a solid strategy. But remem-ber those pesky hard inquiries? Open-ing a bunch of new credit cards means a sudden increase in the number of hard inquiries. Each hard inquiry docks

a few points from your score, and if many are made within a short amount of time, it makes you look risky, which can further influence your credit score in a negative way.

So then closing a bunch of accounts must be the way to go, right? Not quite. Depending on the accounts you close, you could unintentionally be raising your credit utilization ratio, and shortening the overall length of your credit history. Both of these conse-quences lower your credit score.

The best approach is to space out any credit account openings or closings. Try to time them in a way that any short-term negative impact on your credit score won’t interfere with an import-ant upcoming car loan or mortgage. Do your research, only apply for credit products you need, and understand what a specific credit card is contrib-uting to your score before making the decision to close it (that first college credit card may have a low limit and no rewards, but if it’s adding a few years on to your credit history, it’s best to keep it in rotation).

“I haven’t really been paying attention...”

A low score means you could be denied a loan or credit card. You have the most to gain, so show your score some love!

“Pay more for no reason? Sounds good to me!”You may not get turned

down for a loan, but you will likely be charged a higher interest rate.

Figure out what’s keeping you from a prime score.

“Everything isawesome!”

This is where you want your credit score to be to get the best access

to and interest rates on loans.

Laurissa resides in Roanoke with her family and is the Director of Marketing for Blue Eagle© Credit Union. She has worked in credit unions for more than 20 years, has a passion for financial educa-tion, and believes stronger individuals make a stronger community.


Healthy EatingOn The Go

Sometimes grabbing a quick bite through a drive thru is unavoidable with your busy family schedule. Sometimes you aren’t feeling up to cooking a meal, and

sometimes you just want to treat your kids to a nice surprise. But eating at fast food restaurants doesn’t always have to mean eating unhealthy, empty calorie

foods. Here are some of the healthier options on those local dollar menus!By: Tracy Fisher

Save CaloriesMake your favorite fast food treats a little healthier and skip these additions:

• Mayonaisse •Cheese •Full-fat dressings •Sauces

McDonalds® Grilled Chicken Sandwich Subway® Turkey Sub Burger King®

Junior Whopper

Wendy’s® Chicken Go Snack Wrap

Taco Bell® Gordita Baja Beef

McDonalds® Fruit and Yogurt Parfait

350Calories

9g Fat | 820mg Sodium

280Calories

3.5g Fat | 670mg Sodium

240Calories


240Calories


340Calories


150Calories



Chik-Fil-A® Grilled Market Salad

Dunkin Donuts® Ham, Egg & Cheese

Sandwich

Zaxbys® Chicken Fingers

McDonalds® Vanilla Ice Cream Cone

Hardees® Turkey Burger

Starbucks®Chocolate Croissant

1 70Calories

4.5g Fat | 70mg Sodium

200Calories


430Calories


300Calories


280Calories


460Calories


fosterLearn more at lfsva.org or 800-359-3834.

Share your strength. Your values.Your kitchen table.

SummerCamps

Botetourt

Art, DanceGolf, ArcheryVolleyballFootball

Soccer, KarateCheerleading

Outdoor AdventureSTEM Academics

Gymnastics& More!

botetourtva.gov/recreation

540-473-8326

Family Living


Over the past year I have focused on facing my own “impossibilities.” No matter where you are at on your journey, we all have them. For many people these “impossibilities” are health related. Weight-loss, fitting in exercise, dealing with mental illness, and a plethora of other medical condi-tions can seem like an insurmountable challenge. In fact, in September of this last year I would have very much agreed that some of those things are impossible to overcome. Today I stand a changed woman. I no longer believe anything can keep me down. I also honestly believe that you too can face your own “impossibilities” and win.

First, let me explain. I have spent my entire life severely overweight and suf-fering from years of undiagnosed pain. After a lifetime of suffering I finally sought help and was diagnosed with an untreatable form of progressive arthritis. I saw multiple doctors looking for help and answers. I tried a varie-ty of pain medications and therapy. Still, things looked bleak. I was facing an disability and the loss of so many dreams and life goals. At this point I was discouraged and losing hope- fast!

However, this mindset was not the case for long. That seemingly im-possible situation started me on the journey of a lifetime. One that I never imagined I would be on. One doctor took pity on me gave me this advice, “although there is no cure, losing the extra weight will be like being half way there.” I was willing to make the change so she referred me to a nurse practitioner that helped me get started and find the strength to take own my own “impossibility.” Today I am over 100lbs lighter, in worlds less pain, and a true believer in “facing impossibili-ties.”

“Impossibilities” are not able to crush us unless we let them. Rather, they are there to make us stronger than we ever thought possible. It wasn’t neces-sarily the doctors who solidified my life changes. What made the changes stick was my own change of mindset. It took a drastic change in inner dialogue. I

changed my “ I can’t” to “I can.” My worth, my life, and my dreams were not going to be determined by my poor health or the words and opinions of others.

I believe this is a lesson we all must face at some point in our life. It’s not easy, but it is worth it. It was not fun! Truthfully, at times it was horribly difficult. Since I’ve already been there, here are a few lessons I have learned through my journey so far. I hope they will be helpful no matter what life changes you need to take on.

Get help! No matter what your “impossibility” is, you can always use help. Doc-tors, friends, and family all build a necessary support system. Without at least one person on your team, the challenge is bigger than it needs to be.No one can make you do it. If you do not really want to do it, you won’t. No matter how good your support team is, you will accomplish nothing without putting yourself on that team.Just because something is not easy does not mean it is impossible. This was one of the hardest lessons to learn but once you have it, it makes all the difference. I am now a firm believer that anything is possible.You will hit snags. They stink. Get over it and move on. Never let mis-takes stop you!

So, I hope this helps you face your “impossibilities” whatever they are. Just know that I am rooting for you! I’ve been where you stand and I came out the other side alive (so can you). You can connect with me about my journey online on growingupintheval-ley.com

Facing the ImpossibleBy: Amanda Powers

Me, after facing my impossbility

Amanda Powers lives in Salem, VA with her loving husband Andrew and two happy boys

Henry & Benjamin.

NRV SUPERBOWLEnd-to-End Entertainment

www.nrvsuperbowl.net375 Arbor Dr. Christiansburg

For more info, Call 540-382-5525

2-Level State of the Art Laser Tag ArenaArcade & Prize Redemption

32 Lanes of BowlingDine-In Sports Grill

Bowling Pro Shop

The Areas Largest Facility for Fun and Games

NEW

Growing Up Mag

Growing Up Mag

$10 Advance Ticket$15 at Gate Ticket$6 Kids Ticket (6-12)

April 25High Noon

til Sundownphase-2 Lynchburg

Daisy Duke ContestTire Slingin’Ugly Pickup Truck ContestLawn Mower Racin’Crafts + Homemade GoodsKidz Zone & More!Music By:HEADLINER - Cody PurvisRutledgeLow Low ChariotRare Form & Elvis tribute artist Taylor Rodriguez!

Project Faithourteen years ago, Faith Christian School was a young school with a need to raise money and a heartfelt de-sire to reinforce in students the importance of service

to the community. The concept of meeting monetary needs and a desire to serve blossomed into what is now called Pro-ject Faith. This service project is the school’s only all-school fundraiser and it has grown as the school has expanded. In the earliest days, students walked to earn pledged money. In order to better define the best way of giving back to the

community, FCS decided to work, not walk, and donate their efforts to local causes.

With the vision statement, “A Mind for Truth, A Heart for Christ, and A Will to Serve,” Project Faith is viewed not only as the school’s outward act of service, but an extension of hearts that are encouraged to serve every day in the halls of FCS, and in the community.

F

Donating nearly 35,000 hours to local non-profits thus far, Faith Christian School is poised to donate well over 2,500 service hours

in a single day to area organizations again this year.

On Project Faith day, typically the last Friday in April, the entire Faith Chris-tian community –students, teachers, faculty and staff, and a multitude of parent volunteers commit to one day of service to local non-profits. The students secure sponsors for the event, which raises money for the school, and the service hours are donated to the organizations.

Donating nearly 35,000 hours to local non-profits thus far, Faith is poised to donate well over 2,500 service hours in a single day to four area organiza-tions again this year. The Jefferson Center, Straight Street, American Red Cross, and Acts 2 Ministry have each been selected as this year’s recipients. With a crew of over 500, ranging in age from five to ageless, it’s a perfect match. On April 24, 2015, volunteers will paint, clean, organize, landscape, provide light carpentry work and much more to these worthy organizations. Being able to see the contribution they make when working together benefits the participants as much as the recip-ient. It’s a way to live out the school motto: A Mind for Truth, A Heart for Christ, A Will to Serve.

Robert Rogers with Feeding Ameri-ca, a former Project Faith recipient, states, “The residual effects and pure

resonance of Project Faith make it a powerful catalyst for change. It was a privilege for us to be afforded the opportunity to participate in Faith Christian School’s Project Faith. As a result of [their] efforts, hearts were touched and lives were changed. It was a reminder that it’s our ties with each other that make us strong.”

In addition, many local businesses and tradesmen get involved by donating skilled workers (painters, electricians, plumbers, etc.), goods (paint, wood, cleaning supplies, and more), and services (contractor consulting, etc.) on Project Faith day. “We simply could not accomplish this enormous endeavor without the generous involvement of local businesses,” shares Stacey Lilley, Project Faith Chair, “We have the workers, and they provide the exper-tise. It’s a win-win because these non-profits, in many cases, are unable to accomplish the work otherwise.” Volunteers, bedecked in tie-dyed or bright-colored custom-made Project Faith t-shirts, are often featured on the evening newscasts. The workday ends with a big celebration of jobs well done. Most of the day is spent to bene-fit the larger community, while the end of the day is focused primarily on the entire school enjoying the company of each other.

“...hearts were touched and lives were changed. It was a reminder that it’s our ties with each other

that make us strong.”

Project Faith involves students in the work day, as well as in the planning, promoting, and gaining of support for the project. Students at Faith do not sell wrapping paper, candy, magazines, etc. so that all fundraising efforts are focused on this one day. Project Faith is it. Students are charged with sending

pledge letters to their family, friends, neighbors, and beyond. Even for the youngest student “Project Faith is their first interaction with community ser-vice and can spark a love for service,” shares senior Sarah McCurdy, who has been involved with Project Faith since fourth grade. Sarah and fellow class-

mates, Hannah Martin, a senior who has been involved with Project Faith for nine years and Carly Mulinda, also a senior, all state that they have become further involved in the organizations where they have worked and have continued involvement with these non-profits outside of Project Faith. “It has helped us appreciate parts of our community that we otherwise may not have experienced,” says Hannah.The school also receives generous corporate support with over $30,000 in gifts from over thirty companies. The folks in the FCS Development Office are always available to discuss addi-tional corporate sponsorship from the Roanoke Valley and far beyond.

Faith Christian is a JK-12 Christian classical school located on Buck Moun-tain Road in Roanoke County. For more information about the school, please check out their website, www.fcs.va. If you would like to make a tax-deducti-ble donation to Project Faith, you may send it to Faith Christian School, Attn: Project Faith, 3585 Buck Mountain Road, Roanoke, VA 24018. With ques-tions, call 540-769-5200 and ask for the Development Office.

“Project Faith is their first

interaction with community service

and can spark a love for service,”

Sarah McCurdy, Faith Christian Senior

Shoe shopping has raised over $150,000 for Carilion Clinic Chidren’s Hospital.

Heels for HealingA single NICU isolette in Carilion

Clinic Children’s Hospital can cost over $40,000, and a local charity is helping out. And by wear-ing high heels no less.

Heels for Healing is a giant charity silent auction and raffle. It is put on by Ca-rilion Clinic with the help of dozens of women in the

area. Designer footwear from Yarid’s as well as beautiful jewelr designed by Joanna Hudzik of Haywood’s Jewelers are sold in the name of the charity. The money raised at the event is kept local, given to Carilion Clinic Children’s Hospital, Roanoke’s

local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital. By being part of the Children’s Miracle Network, Carilion Clinic will treat chil-dren regardless of their parents ability to pay.

This year the event will be held April 24, from 11:30am - 1:30pm at the Berglund Hall at the Berglund Civic Center. Tickets are available at $50 per person or $400 for a table of 8. Call 540 224-4747 or email [email protected] to reserve your tickets.

Heels FORHealing

PRESENTED BY

Friday, April 24, 201511:30am - 1:30pm

The Berglund Centerwww.carilionclinic.org/cmn

Join us for our annual women’s luncheon benefitting Children’s

Miracle Network Hospitals.

Shoe Raffle | VIP Experience |Silent Auction$50 Individual | $400 Table of 8

Reserve Tickets540.224.4747

[email protected]


Warmer days sprinkle the forecast, birds wake us with their melodic chirps, and flowers sprout up like gentle reminders. Spring is here. And I love it: it is an escape from my least favorite season and a bridge to my favorite. Some parents dread spring due to the inevitable spring fever (and the fact that it is hard to get the little ones to bed when it is still light outside), but there are ways to survive spring and still enjoy it. The alternative of letting your kids set out on an early vacation is definitely not what this teacher would suggest. A lot of damage can be done to one’s grade, and more importantly one’s learning, in a couple of months.

I am somewhat of an expert on the topic because I tend to have one of the biggest cases of spring fever in ex-istence. Let me just clarify that while this is a light at the end of the tunnel moment in time, I do love my job. But, I will not lie. I do need a break. SOL testing and the publication of the year-book, both of which max out my stress level, fall in the spring, so the break is much needed. However, I also simply love summer—I am a flip-flop wearing, ice-cream eating, beach-loving kind of girl.

So when sandals make their way into my work wardrobe, sometimes, just like the kids, I have trouble focusing. There is a little fix that helps me deal with my spring fever and I think it can help students too. The fix: simply em-brace spring. I soak up the sun and get outside whenever possible. When April

showers are not lingering, get your kids outside. (And if the showers are there, what’s the damage in playing in the rain?) Making sure kids have some outside time will help them get through these final months of school, while also giving them their daily dose of Vitamin D that is es-sential to healthy bones. Forego the video games and t.v. and enjoy the weath-er. And if there aren’t enough hours in the day for outside play, just allow for a quick walk around the block, or even let them do their home-work outside. I always take my reading and school work to the back deck just to make sure I can embrace spring. It lifts my mood, which translates to pro-ductivity and positivity.

The other thing that may help your children towards the end of the school year is for you to be in tune with what they have going on. Depending on their grade level, students have SOLs, exams, and other final assess-ments. This can be overwhelm-ing and cause some students to shut down. Use spring as the

SurvivingSpring FeverBy Katie Lewis

Education Station


push: “You are almost there. Finish out strong!” I tell my students that they have put in too much time and effort to give up now.

As far as the testing, especially SOL testing, you might not agree with all it encompasses, but in reality, there is not much you can do to change it for the current school year. So instead of bashing the tests, turn your focus to supporting your children. I teach eleventh grade English, which requires two SOL tests—one in March and one in May. A simple comment by one of my students was enough to make me loathe them: “I couldn’t sleep last night because I was so nervous,” she said. This broke my heart, but all I could do was reassure her with a smile. This is what you can do too. If you sense worry and concern, remind your child that it is just a test. They will get a second chance, if they don’t do well.

It is not worth the worry that I see. Combine this worry and stress with spring fever and the outcome can be disastrous. Talking to your kids about their concerns and even sharing these with their teachers could help get the situation under control.

So as the weather changes and the flowers bloom, help your kids see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Help them stay focused on the reward by reminding them of the importance of their education and the benefits of finishing out strong. And then, let them take that homework outside and maybe even stay up an hour later so they can enjoy the daylight. The effects might just be worth your while, and more important-ly, theirs.

Family Fun


4092 Electric Road Roanoke

360 Arbor DriveChristiansburg

Sandwiches with a SmileLiven up your family’s lunch with these silly sandwich faces.

These fun lunches are a great way to add new vegetables and fruits into picky eater’s diet. Kids are far more likely to try a new food when it looks appealing and interesting. We’ve used radishes, cucumbers, pickles and lunch-meats as

eyes, various green leafy vegetables as hair, and cheddar, americanm and cottage cheeses as the base of the sandwich. Sauces are perfect for adding tiny details like a smile or freckles, as well as adding new flavors to a child’s pallete!

Health


If your child has a seasonal or food allergy, he is not alone. The occurrence of seasonal, food, and skin allergies has increased greatly over the past decade. The reason for the rise has not been determined, but some allergists speculate that we are simply too clean. Known as the “hygiene hypothesis,” the theory suggests that our increased use of hand sanitizers and detergents, and spending too little time around animals means that children are not exposed to as much bac-teria and microorganisms that their immune systems would otherwise learn to fight off.

One recent study has shown that children who lived on farms at a very young age had a reduced incidence of asthma. And another study in Sweden indicated that children in families that were more likely to wash their dishes by hand rather than using a dishwasher were sig-nificantly less likely to develop eczema, and somewhat less likely to develop allergic asthma and hay fever.

Regardless of the reason, Laura Dziadzio, M.D., Carilion Clinic’s pediatric allergist and immunologist, said that there are still no cures for today’s allergies, so the key to relief is identifying the allergy and treating the symptoms. The sooner you can identify your child’s allergy, the sooner you can improve their quality of life!

What is an Allergy?An allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a substance. This substance is usually harmless to most people, but for a person with the allergy their immune system switches to attack mode, resulting in symptoms that can range from simply annoying to serious or even life threatening.

Signs and SymptomsAllergy symptoms in children can vary and can often mimic colds, but Dr. Dziadzio said that there are cer-tain signs that parents can look for in order to diagnose a recurring allergy. Chronic, cold-like symptoms that last more than a week or two and develop about the same time each year could signal a seasonal allergy. Symptoms can include an itchy, runny nose; nasal stuffiness; sneezing; throat clearing; and itchy, watery eyes.

If your child has a food allergy, symptoms will occur re-peatedly after eating a particular food. Common symp-toms include hives; swelling of face or extremities; gagging, coughing, or wheezing; vomiting; or significant abdominal pain.

Signs of a skin allergy, which is more common in

My child suffers from horrible allergies during spring, how can I help him?

Hey Doc!

The Most Common Allergens:

• Pollen • Molds & Fungus • Dust Mites• Cockroaches • Mice & Rats • Pets with fur

• Cow’s milk • Eggs • Peanuts• Tree nuts • Soy • Wheat

• Fish & Shellfish

Health


people with allergies, can include repeated red, itchy, dry, sometimes scaly rashes in the creases of the elbows and/or knees, or on the back of the neck, buttocks, wrists, or ankles.

Signs of asthma include persistent coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and other respiratory symptoms. Asthma symptoms also tend to increase with exercise and/or at night.

TreatmentsToday, there are several treatment options for children. Again there is no cure, but treating the symptoms can make all of the difference. In her practice, Dr. Dziadzio explained that she and her staff will work with each individual child and their family to discuss the best solution, ranging from tips on what they can do around the home to decrease allergen exposure, as well as find a treatment that works for everyone. “If a child is allergic to the family pet, there are some med-ications that can be quite helpful and we try to come up with solutions so they can keep the pet,” she said. “And for

seasonal allergies, we want kids to be able to get outside and enjoy the weather so we often prescribe nasal steroids, eye drops, or antihistamines first. In our practice, we always try other options before resorting to allergy shots since no child likes getting shots and it is not the most convenient option for busy families.”

However, Dr. Dziadzio noted that there is a new drug - sub-lingual immunotherapy - that she has been prescribing in lieu of allergy shots. Instead of an injection, the child is giv-en a pill that dissolves under the tongue. Although currently only approved by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administra-tion) to treat grass pollen for ages 5 and up, and ragweed for 18 and older, Dr. Dziadzio said that this new therapy is a very promising avenue that is less painful and much more convenient for her patients.

For more information about our pediatric allergy and immu-nology practice and Dr. Dziadzio, visit CarilionClinic.org/providers/laura-l-dziadzio-md.

Article By Stephanie Specht of Carilion Clinic

Have a question for our panel of medical experts? Email [email protected]

Stars of the Valley


· Functional kitchen, closets, basement, garage, etc.· Affordable service for one room or the ENTIRE House· Mail and paper clutter organization · Complete confidentiality and non-judgmental

Happy Birthday Dad and April!

Love Sierra , Joey and The Duke

Congratulations Ava on your first

race!

Happy birthday aunt Sammara!

Love, Baby Johnathan

We LOVE you Evelyn!

Congratulations Macy

on Platinum and First Place!Good Luck

at Nationals!

Love,Mom, Dad & Noah

Grandma, GrandpaMawmaw & Pawpaw

Happy Birthday Caleb!

Love, Aunt Dee, Uncle James

& Cousin Bug

Round of ApplauseShare your congratulations! Email [email protected] to be in our Round of Applause

Brava Anika!We loved your

play!

Encore!Mom, Dad & Evie

Kids Korner


Solve more.

Read more.

Perform more.

Learn more. www.northcross.org/more

Morehappens here.You can expect more at North Cross School. More opportunities for classroom interaction, academic achievement, artistic expression, physical activity, character development, and global perspective.

GUITV_More_ThirdPage.indd 1 3/24/15 11:38 AM

Save The DateSave The DateSaturday, December 12 2015

Hopstoch MazeColoring Contest

Color these yummy strawberries & send it in to GUITV for a chance to win a treat from the Strawberry Festival!

Kids Korner


Now, this event might seem strange to

you, but traveling into books was a very normal process for Eliza Hearthstone. For this is why she was extraordinary. Whenever she read a book aloud, she and whomever she was with were free to explore that story’s world.

Liza turned to her brother whose eyes were wide with excitement and wonder. “Woah,” he exhaled. “Where are we?”

“We’re in a story about King Arthur and his Knights. We’re fairly early on in the story.” Eliza looked at her brother’s surprised face. “You okay?” she asked.

“Are you kidding?” he added, running toward the arena. “That’s a knight!”

Eliza started to follow him, but then stopped; she shivered as all the hairs on the back of her neck stood on end. There had been no one on the snow-covered street behind them when they had appeared. And yet, she couldn’t shake the feeling that someone was there, watching her. And it was

not a new suspicion. Lately, when she and Joey had entered a book, Liza had felt

the same heart-stopping butterfly inducing sensation, someone following them, monitoring

their every move. She whipped around to confront whatever it was and saw—

—Nothing. She exhaled, relieved.

But then, out of the corner of her eye, she caught move-ment: a black shadow darting away into a back alley. At first, she moved to follow it but then paused, remembering Joey. If they got separated, he wouldn’t be able to make it back home on his own. She ran back toward the arena. In his excitement, Joey hadn’t even noticed her absence. “Do you think they sell swords to the crowd?” he asked, bursting with energy.

“We’re in the middle of the Dark Ages, Joe,” Eliza laughed. “People are lucky if they aren’t being pillaged by invaders.”

But Joey wasn’t listening. “Look at that knight! He almost lost, but then he spun around and banged his shield into the other guys chest.” He turned toward the knights, coaching from the sidelines with the rest of the crowd. “Knock away his sword!” he shouted. “Watch out! Guard your left!”

Eliza stared at her brother, trying hard to cover up her laughter. “Do you even understand what your saying?”

Joey gave her one of his goofier grins. “Maybe not entirely, but everyone else was cheering it.” Then he lowered his voice. “We have to blend in, you know. Quiet and quick, like

The Adventures of Eliza & Joey

Chapter 2In Which the Shadow Appears

By Marissa Vitulli

Previously: Eliza & Joey rushed home from school and traveled

through a magical portal, entering the classic tale of King

Arthur & the Knights of the Roundtable.

Kids Korner


ninjas,” he added, striking a pose for effect.

Eliza looked at their jeans and t-shirts and then back at her brother, who was practicing his ninja kicks. “Oh, yeah,” she replied, doubtful, “we’re definitely gonna blend in.” She turned her attention back to the duel.

With a quick sidestep, the first knight lost his balance and tumbled to the ground. The knight in red, left only with his shield, picked up the black knight’s sword, holding it to his opponent’s chest. The crowd suddenly erupted, proclaiming him the winner. Both children cheered by the wooden stands as the men walked from the field.

“Liza,” Joey asked, “if I had my own sword, do you think they would let me fight?” The crowd started to die down in preparation of the next duel.

“Joey, you’re ten,” she said as though it were the most ob-vious thing in the world. “They wouldn’t let a ten-year-old fight in a sparring contest—Ooff!” At that moment, a young lanky boy with blonde hair crashed into her at full speed.

“Pardon me,” he mumbled, picking up the finely polished helmet he had dropped and taking off toward the knights’ tents.

Eliza stood up and dusted off her jeans. “Well,” she added, “I guess chivalry really is dead.”

Joey’s jaw dropped. “But, they’re letting him fight, Liza!” Joe took off after him, equally parts jealous and curious.

“Joey!” Liza called out, following. Finally, she caught up with her brother who was hiding behind some barrels next to the white tent the other boy had just disappeared into.

“Joey,” Eliza asked out of breath, “do you remember the rule about not running off by yourself at all?”

“Wart!” A loud voice from inside the tent called out before Joe could answer. “Hand me my sword!”

“Wart?” Joey asked, puzzled. “What kind of a name is Wart?”

Eliza laughed, realizing just whom Joey had ended up following. “It’s not his real name. His step-brother Kay just calls him that to pick on him.”

“Oh,” Joey seemed to take in this information for a mo-ment. “Is he important, Liza?” he asked.

“Very. He’s the main character of the story! We dropped in just where it’s getting good. Watch.”

“Yes, sir,” a younger voice replied. There was a pause, Wart searching for the sword. “Found it!” he called out in relief and excitement. “Here.” Another pause; Wart handed over the weapon. “Good luck!”

“Luck?” the other voice shouted. “Why would I need luck, you worthless lump on a log! I am one of the best fighters in

Britain—“ “Wait,” Eliza paused in horror, thinking through the story she had read. “Something’s wrong!” she whispered, turning to Joey. “This is not how the story’s supposed to go.”

“What do you mean?” asked Joey, confused. “Kay certainly seems like a jerk, but it sounds like he might win—”

“No, it’s the sword. It’s supposed to be broken from an earlier battle. Kay sends Wart out to find another one. And if Wart doesn’t go looking for another sword, he won’t be-come King of England!

“Wait, the boy who bumped into you is gonna become king?” Joey asked in excitement. “Cool! Do you think he’ll take me on as a knight in training. I mean, he can’t say I’m too young, cause he can’t be much older than you, and he’s gonna be king!”

“So not the point right now, Joe.”

Realization dawned on Joey’s face. “Liza, does that mean I did something to change the story?”

“No, Joe,” she reassured. “I don’t think so. I haven’t seen you change anything, and I’ve been with you the whole time.”

Eliza had meant to make him feel better, but now her brother just looked more concerned. “Then does that mean someone changed the story besides you or me? I thought we were the only ones that could do that!”

“I thought so too.” Liza thought back to the shadow she saw earli-er. “I have no idea what will happen to us or to the book if the story changes. I don’t know if we can even get home.” She turned to her brother, de-termined. “Joe,” she said, “we have to get rid of that sword.” A mischievous smile took over Joey’s face. Without a word, he slipped into the tent and disap-peared inside. “Joey,” Eliza called out as loud as she could, “what are you doing?”

To Be Continued...

Family Fun


12

3

4 5

6

7

8

9

Paper BouquetD.I.Y

Supplies:• Colored paper

• Glue• Scissors

Instructions:1. Cut paper into long thin rectangles. You will need 2 pieces; one for the flower and one for the stem.

2. Using the colored paper, crease one long edge at about 1/2 inch width; then snip a fringe along the opposite side.

3. Roll individual pieces of the fringe to-wards the creased edge, then set aside.

4. Cut the green thin rectangle in half.

5. Glue and roll one half into a tight stem. Allow to dry before moving on.

6. Place glue along the crease from the rolled fringe, and slowly wrap it around the green stem. Adjust rolls as necessary to cover the top half of the stem.

7. Using the other half of the green paper, cut to half the height of the stem. Accord-ian fold the paper.

8. While holding the paper in the accord-ian fold, snip one tip to a point and trim edges down.

9. Glue the base of the leaves on to the stem, being careful leave the leaves themselves glue free. Carefully curl them away from the stem and allow to dry before displaying!

These spring flowers won’t wilt! This fun craft will bring a little color into any room. You can even try changing up

the style by using recycled or patterned papers.Check out other great kid craft ideas at wonderfuldiy.com

Stars of the Valley


When it comes to raising children, nothing can be more challenging than having a parent who finds themselves taking on the role of both a mom AND a dad. Nobody knows this as well as Beverly Grubbs. When her daughter Cherie was just 5 years old, Cherie’s father passed away. After having her second child, Raymond, several years later -- she worked multiple jobs to keep a roof over their head, clothes on their back and food on the table.

She has worked at Sam’s Club for the past 28 years as the Personnel Training Coordinator, and has worked various side jobs over the years to provide for her family (housecleaning, mowing yards, helping with BINGO, just to name a few!) Beverly loves the water, making ceramics and LOVES to read! “When I’m not working, I am reading and I always have a book with me!” Whether it’s on her lunch break, or late at night, Beverly loves reading

books from her favorite authors James Patterson, Nora Roberts and Sandra Brown.

With her best friend having moved recently to the Virginia Beach area, she said that her weekends this Sum-mer will be spent on the roads visiting the beach (listening to country music, no doubt). Her daughter shared with us just how special her mom is when she said, “My mom would give the shirt off her back and shoes off her feet for an-yone in need. She has been there for friends through their hard times--even when she is going through tough times of her own!”

While Beverly is a hard worker, an amazing mother and loyal friend; she is also a very special grandmother to her 2 year old “buddy” Donovan. “My mother, Beverly, is the best grand-mother I could have EVER hoped for my son! She loves her “granny and baby” time and keeps him a ton for my hus-band and I to have some adult time!”

Originally from Lynchburg, Beverly has lived in the Roanoke area for many, many years. She says that the key to her happiness is knowing that her children are happy. Like most parents, she recalls how difficult the teenage

years were when raising her children, working multiple jobs and trying to provide. In the end, she says that her favorite part of being a parent is the relationship she has with her children now that they are adults. “They are my best friends”, she says. You can hear in her voice how incredibly proud she is of her children, and it is quite evident that her children feel the same way about her! Her daughter confess-es, “As a 32 year old mother myself, I hope I will be as good of a mother to my son as my mom continues to be to me, although I don’t think it could happen!”

Clearly, Beverly has made such a posi-tive impact in her children’s lives, and to all those who have come in contact with her over the years. “My mom de-serves an award more than any words I can write to you”, her daughter tells us. “There isn’t enough time in the day to explain how wonderful she is and how blessed I am to have her as my mom!” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves, and we are so glad to be giving Beverly the well-deserved title of “Mom of the Month!”

Mom of the Month:Beverly Grubbs“My mom, Beverly Grubbs, should be the “Mom of the

month” because she is the most generous, selfless, giving, and loving person I know!”

-Cherie Caruso, Roanoke

Nominate a Mom [email protected]

Healthmax Insurance

For all your insurance needs,we have you covered.

Home Auto Life Business Auto Disability Business Owners Boaters Renters Cancer Medicare

Health Business Workers Comp General Liability Dental Umbrella RV Accident Critical Illness Flood

CobraHuman resources through HR Services/HR360

Client SeminarsChanging Legislature

Healthcare Reform UpdatesElectronic EnrollmentsBene�ts Administration

On Site consultations with employeess

Services we provide

540.345.8200877.894.2211

Visit us on Facebookor on the web at

Olddominioninsurancegroup.com

Old Dominion Insurance Group, LLC

Protect what’s most important

your family.

Kids Eat Free(or Cheap!)

SundayRagazzi’sRoanoke11 AM - 4 PM1 free kid’s meal per adult (10 & under)Steak’n’ShakeHershberger RoadAll Day1 free kid’s meal per adult ($8 or more)Local RootsGrandinAll Day1 free kid’s meal per adultT.G.I.Fridays Valley ViewAll Day1 free kid’s meal per adult (12 & under)Moe’sBlacksburgAll DayOne 99 cent kids meal per adult

MondayBuffalo Wild WingsValley View4 PM - 9 PM1 free kid’s meal per adultMcAllister’s DeliTowers Mall5 PM - Close2 free kid’s meals per adultFirehouse SubsBlacksburgAll Day2 free kid’s meals per adult (14 & Under)Famous Anthony’sRoanoke & Vinton 3 PM - Close1 free kid’s meal per adultCountry CookingBrambleton & Melrose4 PM - Close1 free kid’s meal per adult.IHOPValley View4 PM -8 PM1 free kid’s meal per adult (12 & Under)

TuesdayMacado’sAll Roanoke Locations4 PM - 9 PMOne $1 kid’s meal per adult

Queso Southwestern GrillMarket BuildingAll Day1 free kid’s meal per adult ($8 or more)

Town Center Tap HouseDalevilleAll Day2 free kid’s meals per adult.Brambleton DeliRoanoke11 AM - 9 PM1 free kid’s meal per adult.River City GrillRadford4 PM - 10 PM1 free kid’s meal per adult (12 & under)

WednesdayDogwood VintonAll Day 1 free kid’s meal per adult (10 & under)Golden Coral Towne Square All Day1 free kid’s buffet per adult (3 & under)

ThursdayThe RoanokerRoanoke4:30 PM - Close2 free kid’s meals per adult ( 10 & under)River City GrillRadford4 PM - 10 PM1 free kid’s meal per adult (12 & under)

SaturdayTokyo Express SalemAll Day1 free kid’s buffet per adult (5 & under)


Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat

Children’s Book Day

No Housework Day National Sibling Day

National Jelly Bean Day

Take Your Daughter to Work Day

Salem Red Sox FestLewis Gale Field,Salem12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

2nd Annual Chocolate FestivalDowntown Blacksburg11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Hairspray Mill Mountain TheatreApr 29-May 17, 2015

Storybook ScienceScience Museum of Western Virginia10:30 AM

Late Night Movie: Buffy the Vampire SlayerLyric TheatreBlacksburg11:30 PM - 02:00 AM

May the Fourth (Star Wars Day)May 2, 2015Amazement Square, Lynchburg

Upcoming Events:

Drop-In StorytimeBarnes & NobleValley View Mall11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Young At ArtTaubman Museum10:30 AM - 11:15 AM

Easter

Strawberry FestivalMay 1 & 2, 2015Elmwood Park

National AutismAwareness Month

Chipotle Night with Salem Montessori SchoolTowers Chipotle3:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Vinton Dogwood FestivalApril 22-26Downtown Vinton

56th Annual International Street FairDowntown Blacksburg12:00 PM - 5:00 PM

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8 9 10 11

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28 29 30

Big Lick Kid Fest10:00 AMElmwood Park, Roanoke

Infant MassageHELPING PARENTS BOND AND IMPROVE THE HEALTH OF THEIR NEW BABY

Learn how to massage your infant to assist with bonding, constipation, sleep, teething, communication, crying and colic. The $45 cost covers four one-hour classes.

We also offer Love and Logic® parenting classes.

Visit CarilionClinic.org/calendar for class schedules. To register for classes, call 540-266-6000.

Blue Ridge Kite FestGreen Hill Park, Roanoke 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

The Guide


Tickets: 540-224-1200,or go online!

MAY 28TH - JUNE 14THMAY 28TH - JUNE 14TH

OFFICE: 540-400-7795 · BOX OFFICE: 540-224-1200 · 108 FIRST STREET (HENRY ST) NW ROANOKE, VA 24016 · ROANOKECHILDRENSTHEATRE.ORG

SEA

SON

SPO

NSO

RS

SEA

SON

PAR

TN

ERS

SHO

WSP

ON

SOR

S

SHO

WPA

RT

NER

S

COME PLAY WITH US

AT THE

DUMAS CENTER!

OUR 7TH SEASON - 2014-2015 - WHERE BOOKS COME TO LIFE!OUR 7TH SEASON - 2014-2015 - WHERE BOOKS COME TO LIFE!

roanokechildrenstheatre.orgroanokechildrenstheatre.orgMore details online: More details online:

April 1 •WednesdayRadford Bunny Trail4:30 PM - 6:30 PMDowntown RadfordFree

April 3 • FridayRiver Rock Homeschool Days10 AM - 3 PMRiver Rock Climbing, Roanoke$10/personAges 5+riverrockclimbing.com

Pump-It-Up Parent’s Night Out6:30 PM - 10 PMPump-It-Up, Roanoke$20/Child $15/SiblingAges 2-10 (Potty trained)Registration Required540-345-7867

April 4 • SaturdayEaster Egg Hunt + Vendor Market9 AM- 2 PMMoneta Fire Department, MonetaFreeAll Ages

The Salvation Army New River Valley Spring Fling9 AM - 1:30 PMSalvation Army, ChristiansburgFreeAll Ages

Home Depot Kids Workshop9 AM - 12 PMFranklin & Hershberger Locations, RoanokeFreeAges 5-12Reserve your spot today:Franklin 540-772-3087Hershberger 540-265-7655

Four Corners Farm Easter Egg-stravaganza10 AM- 12 PMFour Corners Farm, Rocky MountFreeAll Ages

Roanoke Valley Comic-Con10 AM- 4 PMBerglund Civic Center, Roanoke$5/PersonAll Ages

Red Sox Home Games

April 16-22April 28-30

Full Schedule + Times at salemsox.com

See our full calendar at growingupinthevalley.com/calendar

The Guide


Easter Celebration @ Smith Mountain Lake10:30 AM - 12 PMDiscovery Center, Smith Mountain Lake State ParkFree (Does not include parking)All Ages

Storybook Science10:30 AM- 11:15 AMScience Museum of Western VirginiaCenter in the Square, RoanokeAges 3-5Free for MembersRegular Admission for Non-Memberssmwv.org

Easter Egg Hunt 11:30 AM- 3:30 PMElmwood Park, RoanokeAll AgesFree

American Girl Paris Tea Party1 PMTanglewood Barnes & NobleFree with ReservationAll Ages540-776-2960Reservations Required. Limited Space available.

Salem Red Sox Fest12 PM - 4 PMLewis Gale Field, SalemAll AgesFree

April 6 • MondayYoga for Young Children6 PMMain library, RoanokeToddlers & caregiversFree

April 7 • TuesdayChick-Fil-A Family NightSalem Location5 PM - 7 PMAll AgesFree

April 10 • FridayBricks 4 Kids Summer Camp Preview10 AM- 4 PMBricks 4 Kids, Roanoke$30/Child540-380-2485

April 11 • SaturdayBig Lick Kid Fest10 AMElmwood Park, Roanoke$8/person 4&Under FreeAll Ages

April 14 • TuesdayChipotle Night3 PM - 8 PMChipotle, Towers LocationAll AgesProceeds Benefit Salem Montessori School

April 29-May 17, 2015Wed – Sat at 7:30pmSat/Sun at 2pmMill Mountain TheatreJourney back to the sixties with the high energy musical, Hairspray! The story follows a young girl, Tracy, trying to achieve her dream of performing on a TV dance show in 1960s Baltimore. Confronted with segregation and prejudice, Tracy and friends use song and dance to reach a place of acceptance and under-standing. High spirited and fun, this show will leave you singing and dancing!

April 17 • FridayParents Night Out6:00 PM - 10:00 PMChristiansburg Aquatic Center$30.00/Childwww.christiansburg.org/aquatics540-381-7665

April 18 • Saturday2nd Annual Blacksburg Chocolate Festival11 AM - 6 PMDowntown BlacksburgFree to Attend$10/ 10 tasting ticketsAll Ageswww.blacksburgchocolatefestival.com

Cartoons, Cupcakes & CraftsMay 30•June 6•June 20•June 27•July 25•Aug 1•Aug 15•Sept 5

presented by:

Enjoy our free family fun days throughout the whole summer!

The Guide


Blue Ridge Kite Festival10 AM - 4 PMGreen Hill Park, RoanokeFree Admission and ParkingAll Ages

April 19 • Sunday56th Annual International Street Fair12 PM - 5 PMDowntown BlacksburgDate: Sunday, April 19, 2015FreeAll Ages

April 24 • FridayHeels for Healing11:30 AM - 1:30 PMBerglund Civic CenterAdults OnlyTables of 8/$400, individual $50

Be one of the 350 women who gather at the Berglund Center in April, to support Carilion Clinic Children’s Hospital. You’ll have the chance to win one of over a dozen pairs of designer shoes be-ing raffled off by Yarid’s and participate in a fabulous silent auction.

April 25 • SaturdayEverything Country Fest12 PM - 9 PMPhase-2 Club, Lynchburg$10/person

Party for the Planet11 AM- 4 PMMill Mountain Zoo, RoanokeAdults: $8.00Children: $6.00All Ages

Lyric Theatre Late Night Movie11:30 PM - 2 AMLyric Theatre, Blacksburg$5.00/ Person

May 1 & 2Community School’s 35th annual Strawberry Festival Elmwood Park, Roanoke Friday: 10:00 am - 5:30 pmSaturday: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Shortcakes $6.00 Berries and Cream $3.50Adult Sundae $5.50 Child Sundae $3.50

Chocolate Dipped Strawberries* $1.50 Strawberry Smoothie* $4.00 * tickets not required

VintonDogwood Festival

April 22-28

CarnivalApril 22-28

Thursday, April 24 is $20/All-You-Can-Ride

Free Kid Zone April 26

10 AM - 2 PMVinton Farmer’s Market Area

60th Annual ParadeApril 26 2:30 PMDowntown Vinton

5K Dogwood Walk/RunApril 26, 8:30 AM

With regards to orthodontic treatment nothing is truer than the old saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Consequently, the American Association of Orthodontists recom-mends children be evaluated by an orthodontist at 7 years of age. Although most children will not require any treatment this early, there are specific problems that can be detected by this time. With this knowledge, a plan can be developed to minimize the negative consequences of these discrepancies on the child’s occlusion (bite), skeletal (jaw) development, and facial appear-ance.

By age seven, any jaw relationship discrepancies that exist will be evident and the orthodontist will discuss with you and your child appropriate treat-ment and timing of treatment. Skeletal discrepancies include lower jaws that are too far back or too far forward and upper jaws that may be too far back. Upper jaws that are too narrow relative to the lower jaw may also be recog-nized at this age. Some of these jaw relationship problems may result in a cross bite, where the upper teeth are actually inside the lower teeth when

the child bites together.A panoramic x-ray and sometimes pic-tures at this visit allow the orthodontist to determine if there are any abnormal findings such as missing or extra teeth. If this is the case, the orthodontist will discuss with you the short and long term effects these problems will have on your child’s dental development and future orthodontic treatment.

This is also the time to discuss thumb or finger sucking habits. If prolonged, these habits can negatively affect den-tal and skeletal development and even facial esthetics.

For most, this initial evaluation is simply reassurance that no significant problems exist. If treatment is recom-mended, make sure you understand why it must be completed now as opposed to later when the child under-goes comprehensive orthodontic treat-ment. Many orthodontic problems do not need to be treated early, so when in doubt, get a second opinion, most orthodontists will offer complimentary initial evaluations.

Article by Dr. David Jones DDS, MSMcCorkle and Jones Orthodontics

Why Age 7 is the Right Time to Visit the Orthodontist

On Golden PondSept. 30 - Oct. 11

Beauty and the Beast Jr.July 31 - Aug. 9

42nd StreetDec. 2 - 20

Piano Man: March 28Opry Divas: June 6

HairsprayApril 29 - May 17

2015 Season

540.342.5740 www.millmountain.org

Strawbe�y Sw�tsStrawberry-Orange Smoothieingredients:3 cups of vanilla yogurt10 oz of frozen strawberries2 tablespoons of orange juice1 tablespoon of honey

directions:In blender, place ingredients. Cover ; blend on medium speed until smooth. Add more honey to taste if de-sired.

$1.85 per servingk

Springtime

Federally insured by the NCUA.

-advertisement-

See all of Member One’s budget friendly strawberry sweets recipes at

www.growingupinthevalley.com/strawberry

The Guide


Wish Upon a StarFairytale Characters for your next birthday!

Fair ytalebir thdays.com

ROANOKE VALLEY GROCERY PRICE COMPARISONGrocery shopping is a tough task! The chart below should help you get the best deals! Prices in green are the cheapest for the item, while prices in red are the most expensive. The Av-

erage price for each item is in yellow. The overall average ($125.84) ONLY includes the 4 major Grocery retailers. For more charts, graphs and pricing comparisons, visit www.growingupin-

thevalley/grocery. Prices may vary, we will not be held responsible for errors or omissions.

The Guide


ROANOKE VALLEY GROCERY PRICE COMPARISON

Mary Kay Carissa Mulahn 540-819-0126marykay.com/cmulahn

Mary Kay Erin [email protected]

It Works!Tessie [email protected]

AvonAngela Helms [email protected]

AvonChristine [email protected]

Jamberry Nail Wraps Ashley Tommason [email protected]

Cookie Lee Jewelry Angela Dooley [email protected]

Heritage MakersBrittany Scott 540-525-2849 [email protected]

Origami OwlBeth Bell [email protected]

Origami OwlAmy [email protected]

Origami OwlLisa Cone [email protected]

Origami OwlAshley Dufey540-529-5237 [email protected]

Lia sophia Amanda [email protected]

Premier DesignsJewelryHeather M. [email protected]

A + Custom Cleaning Alicia Pfeiffer540-521-5722apluscustomcleaning.vpweb.com

ACE SkinnyKelly [email protected]

Ameriplan Elizabeth [email protected]

Creative StartsAngie Yates540 915 [email protected]

Ferguson FitnessJohanna [email protected]

Go Green CleaningKrista [email protected]

Heather Turner Photography Heather [email protected]

Keep It SimpleCleaning ServicesAshley [email protected]

KCM PhotographyChristie [email protected]

Mom’s Club of Roanoke West & Salem [email protected]

Pet PalsJessica [email protected]

Phoenix PhotographyKellie [email protected]

Roanoke Reading Clinic Lisa [email protected]

Mom BusinessesCosmetics

Jewelry

Services

O.C.DCleaning Service

(540) 815-2063

[email protected] & Insured!

Teresa Martin

[email protected]

FIND YOUR VOICE.childrenschoir.com

www.jovialcreations.comCustom Name Art

mythirtyone.com/katehenretta

Kate Henretta(321) 863-3859

Skinny Body Care Sue [email protected]

Tanya Graybeal’s Mu-sic Studio Tanya [email protected]

Amy’s Piano Studio Amy Allen [email protected]

OCD Cleaning [email protected]

Wow Organizing540-420-8225www.woworganizing.com

At HomeChristy [email protected]

Baked Beauties by BethanyBethany [email protected]

Beach Combers Jewlery Linda [email protected]

Celebrating HomeAnna [email protected]

Celebrating HomeLinda [email protected]

Dunneright PotteryCarol [email protected]

Gold CanyonMichelle Mullins-Stephenson 540-314-4482

Initials Inc.April [email protected]

Miche Bag Sunday [email protected]

Pampered ChefAmy [email protected]

Pampered ChefKimberly [email protected]

Pampered ChefWendy [email protected]

Pampered ChefChristie [email protected]

Scentsy Angela [email protected]

ScentsyGail Duffy [email protected]

Simply FunTeresa Martin [email protected]

Sunday’s CreationsSunday [email protected]

Thirty OneAimee Franklin Mabrey [email protected]

Thirty OneKellie Mirasola [email protected]

Thirty OneMichelle [email protected]

Thirty OneJane [email protected]

Usborne BooksBrianne [email protected]

Pollywally DoodleClaire [email protected]

Custom Critterz540-315-7060www.CustomCritterz.com

Gifts

Get your business

HEARDby every familyin Southwest & Central VA

Advertise in the largest free publication in the [email protected]

Just A Dream Away TravelSave up to 30% on rooms

at select Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

This Summer

293-5132MouseCoachJenn.com

[email protected]

Gregory C. Zachmann, M.D.

Paul W. Lenkowski, M.D., Ph.D.

decisions... decisions...

Same-Day Appointments

540.283.6000 | jeffersonsurgical.com

Allergy Relief

The Doctor willsee you now.

Now or Later?

Grass Pollen... Tree Pollen... Weed Pollen...

HERE FOR THE

momentslook at that!

CarilionClinic.org | 800-422-8482

Playing sports and going to summer camp are all about having fun, but you want to make sure your child is ready for physical activity. Carilion Clinic offers sports and camp physicals by appointment at all of our primary care locations. Or, for more flexibility, visit any of our VelocityCare locations—no appointment necessary.

Growing Up In the Valley April 2015

Documents

Transcript of Growing Up In the Valley April 2015