Growing Up In the Valley April 2015

Growing Up Southwest & Central Virginia’s Premier Family Resource

In The Valley Volume 3, Issue 8 | April 2015 | FREE

Kids Get

Arthritis Too How Maddie Is Spreading Awareness Through The Valley

Eating on the Go A Guide To Healthy Fast Food

Project

Faith Raising Money Through Community Service

Get your Boarding Pass early for an adventurous summer!

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!

e Hous n e p O 16 Camp day, April Thurs - 6:30 Sppem cials!

5:00 Registration details. e for d for Atten our websit Visit

10 Weeks of Summer Fun Ages 6 - 12 years old

540-344-4543 HoneyTreeELC.com

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

1973

1993

2000

2015

Roanoke Catholic Our Lady of Nazareth All elementary grades Preschool is added. It Old Upper School and St. Andrew’s on the grounds of offers partial and full- building is remodeled. celebrates its 125th year. schools consolidate St. Andrew’s are day programs for ages brought together to form Roanoke 3, 4 and 5. to form Roanoke Catholic High.

Catholic Elementary.

Lower School

1961

1980

Kindergarten is added.

1985

1994

Football team wins first state championship.

1999

2012

building undergoes energy efficiency renovation.

Upper School Gymnasium is renovated.

2014

High school building A multipurpose and gymnasium are building with Upper School constructed.

Elementary and high classrooms, media building undergoes schools are merged center, administrative renovation. Football into a K-12 unit. complex, chapel, team wins 2nd state science labs and new championship. cafeteria is added.

Celebrating Our 125 Year April 23, 1PM - 5PM Open House th

April 22, 10AM- 2PM

www.roanokecatholic.com

From the Editor We Won! We are so proud to have won two design awards at the 2015 Parenting Meida Association’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 magzine every month by giving back... to you! We have AMAZING

Growing Up In The Valley

Publisher

Josh Eagan Josh@growingupinthevalley.com Anika and Evelyn’s Dad

Editor

Andrea Eagan Andrea@growingupinthevalley.com Anika and Evelyn’s Mom

Creative Director

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!

Sales

Enjoy our best issue yet and enjoy the Spring Weather...Finally!

- The Eagan Family

Distribution

Community Relations

Shelley Sawyer Shelley@growingupinthevalley.com Troy and Tucker’s Mom

Leigh Anne Woods Law@growingupinthevalley.com

April Collini Teresa Martin Amanda Powers Rachel Robinson

GUITV staff at PMA Awards with PMA President Sarah Taylor

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 Contest We had a great turn out at our Talent Search, and now you can vote on the photos at growingupinthevalley.com/talent-search-vote Strawberry Festival Contest Throughout the pages of this issue you will see a strawberry.

Email info@growingupinthevalley.com 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!

Weekly Winsday Giveaways Every 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.

(Psst. This is the first one!)

Contact Us

f T P

Dee Shrader Dee@mofatmedia.com Aleyna’s Mom

Writers

We Won & You Can Too!

Phone: 540-251-1660 Fax: 540-808-1568 Mail: 2116 Colonial Avenue, Roanoke, VA 24015 To Reach the Editor: Andrea@growingupinthevalley.com To Request Magazines: Josh@growingupinthevalley.com To Advertise: Dee@Mofatmedia.com To Submit An Event: Shelley@growingupinthevalley.com General Inquiries: Info@growingupinthevalley.com

Tracy Fisher Tracy@growingupinthevalley.com Charlotte and Evelyn’s Mom

Facebook.com/growingupinthevalley @GUPintheValley Pinterest.com/Gupinthevalley

Laura Wade Kim Castner Katie Lewis Heidi Blackwelder

Photographers Jessica Farmer

Amanda Robinson

Interns Daniel Castillo Brad Tomlinson

Marisa Vitulli

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.

© Copyright 2015 MoFat Media

In This Issue: Features

14 Eat Healthy On the Go! Choose the healthiest option when eating at fast food chains.

32

18 Project Faith

Local Private School earns money for its students through community service.

Health

40 Orthodontist at 7

18

Why you need to have your children’s teeth checked so early

26 Hey Doc!

Our healthcare panelists answer your questions!

Education

22 Surviving Spring Fever How to keep kids focused on school when spring blooms.

Family Living 16 Facing Impossibility

Triumphing over life’s difficulties.

12 It’s a Money Thing Debunking Credit Score Myths

24 Sandwiches with a Smile

Silly faces for your snacks.

32 D.I.Y Paper Flower Bouquet

The Guide

35 Family Calendar The biggest and best local event calendar

34 Kids Eat Free

Find out all the details where kids dine for free!

Kidz Corner

29 Kid’s Games

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

30 Adventures of Eliza & Joey

The Story continues with Joey & Eliza in King Arthur’s Court

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

School closings, weather forecasts, health reports and more.

All in one place.

Kimberly McBroom, WDBJ7 Anchor

For the latest on-the-go:

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.

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 educational 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-expression 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.

Bricks 4 Kidz | 1060 23rd Street | Roanoke, VA 24015 www.bricks4kidz.com/virginia-roanoke-salem 540.380.2485 | swhitaker@bricks4kidz.com

At our Creativity Center, and through mobile programs around the Roanoke 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.

SMALL

TALK

Date Night Ideas Dinner + Movie

A 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 benches 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 + Show

So 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 concessions. Mill Mountain Theatre shows a wide variety of shows and musical events and is located right next to the City Market (and our favorite snowcone place- Bayou’s Snowballs!)

Average Cost: $60

Rental + Take Out

Why 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 FetchVirginia.com they deliver from dozens of restaurants until 10pm most nights.

Average Cost: $25

$5/Session classes for kids ages 5-13

www.PlayFitStayFit.net Jason@playfitstayfit.net

540-525-7671

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!

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

W

e 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.

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

Call (540) 389-4087 for more information!

SMALL

TALK

Reviews

Big Hero 6 2014 directed by Don Hall and Chris Williams

& Films

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 brother 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 personal healthcare companion. Hiro is sufficiently inspired after a look at what goes on in the lab, and he decides to apply to the school.

When he presents his microbots 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 Hiro’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 microbots weren’t destroyed in the explosion like he’d assumed. Someone has stolen them.

In an effort to recover his stolen property, Hiro decides to team up with Baymax and four of Tadashi’s robotics friends. He finds purpose in the possibility of revenge and throws himself into creating state-of-the-art armor and gadgets for his team, not thinking about the consequences his

4078 Electric Road Roanoke VA 24018

Reviews by Heidi Blackwelder

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 Green Grades 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 driver, 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

360 Arbor Drive Christiansburg VA 24072

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 complexity of others.

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

Our expectations are high for our grandchildren.

The peaceful atmosphere, Christian education,

OUR GRANDCHILDREN WILL BE READY dedicated teachers, small classes and classical approach is why we are committed to Faith Christian School. ~ Dawn & Eddie Hearp

A Distinctively Christian & classical JK-12 Education

Faith Christian School fcsva.com 540.769.5200 x148

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 garbage disposal, and the babysitter for during his dad’s interview has called in sick. As the day goes on, things



Powerful Proven Affordable

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 importance of family.

Coming Out Soon: JUNE 12th - Pixar’s Inside Out 19th - Jurassic World

JULY 10th - Minions 17th - Ant-Man 24th - Paper Towns, Pan AUGUST 7th - Fantastic Four 21st - Max

Debunking Credit Score Myths Provided by Laurissa Grubb from Blue Eagle Credit Union

C redit scores are an area of personal finance that seem a lot more mysterious 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 control There are a lot of factors that make this myth easy to buy into—credit bureaus keep their exact credit score formulas 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 accompanying “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 patient 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 score This myth comes from confusing two different types of credit score inquiries: 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 example). Soft inquiries are made by you or by others for background check purposes (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 score Even though these myths are the complete 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.

How is your credit score calculated?

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

12

Growing Up In the Valley • April 2015

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 remember those pesky hard inquiries? Opening a bunch of new credit cards means a sudden increase in the number of hard inquiries. Each hard inquiry docks

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

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 consequences lower your credit score.

“Pay more for no reason?

Sounds good to me!”

A low score means you could be You may not get turned denied a loan or credit card. down for a loan, but you will likely You have the most to gain, so be charged a higher interest rate. show your score some love!

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

“Everything is awesome!”

The best approach is to space out any credit account openings or closings. Try to time them in a way that any shortterm negative impact on your credit score won’t interfere with an important upcoming car loan or mortgage.

Do your research, only apply for credit products you need, and understand what a specific credit card is contributing 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).

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 education, and believes stronger individuals make a stronger community.

This is where you want your credit score to be to get the best access to and interest rates on loans.

No need to chicken out.

We offer affordable home improvement solutions.

BlueEagleCreditUnion.com Bl E l C ditU i | BlueEagle@BlueEagleCreditUnion.com Bl E l @Bl E l C ditU i | 540.342.3429 540 342 3429 or 800.342.3429 800 342 3429

April 2015 • growingupinthevalley.com

13

Healthy Eating

On 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

McDonalds® Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Subway® Turkey Sub

Calories

Calories

Burger King® Junior Whopper

350

280

9g Fat | 820mg Sodium

3.5g Fat | 670mg Sodium

10g Fat | 410mg Sodium

Wendy’s® Chicken Go Snack Wrap

Taco Bell® Gordita Baja Beef

McDonalds® Fruit and Yogurt Parfait

Calories

Calories

Calories

10g Fat | 740mg Sodium

19g Fat | 580mg Sodium

2g Fat | 70mg Sodium

240

340

240 Calories

150

Save Calories Make your favorite fast food treats a little healthier and skip these additions: • Mayonaisse •Cheese •Full-fat dressings •Sauces 14

Growing Up In the Valley • April 2015

Chik-Fil-A® Grilled Market Salad

200 Calories

5g Fat | 570mg Sodium

McDonalds® Vanilla Ice Cream Cone

1 70 Calories

4.5g Fat | 70mg Sodium

Zaxbys® Chicken Fingers

430 Calories

22g Fat | 1270mg Sodium

Starbucks® Chocolate Croissant

300 Calories

17g Fat | 220mg Sodium

Dunkin Donuts® Ham, Egg & Cheese Sandwich

280 Calories

8g Fat | 770mg Sodium

Hardees® Turkey Burger

460 Calories

17g Fat | 930mg Sodium

Botetourt

Summer Share your strength.

Your values.

Your kitchen table.

foster

Camps

Art, Dance Golf, Archery Volleyball Football Soccer, Karate Cheerleading Outdoor Adventure STEM Academics Gymnastics & More! botetourtva.gov/recreation

540-473-8326

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

April 2015 • growingupinthevalley.com

15

Family Living

Facing the Impossible By: Amanda Powers

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 conditions 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 suffering 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 variety 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 impossible 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 impossibilities.”

“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 necessarily 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

16

Growing Up In the Valley • April 2015

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. Doctors, 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 mistakes 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 growingupinthevalley.com

Me, after facing my impossbility Amanda Powers lives in Salem, VA with her loving husband Andrew and two happy boys Henry & Benjamin.

End-to-End Entertainment

NRV

NEW

SUPERBOWL

The Areas Largest Facility for Fun and Games

2-Level State of the Art Laser Tag Arena Arcade & Prize Redemption 32 Lanes of Bowling Dine-In Sports Grill Bowling Pro Shop

Growing Up Mag

www.nrvsuperbowl.net 375 Arbor Dr. Christiansburg

Growing Up Mag

April 25

High Noon til Sundown phase-2 Lynchburg

For more info, Call 540-382-5525

Daisy Duke Contest Tire Slingin’ Ugly Pickup Truck Contest Lawn Mower Racin’ Crafts + Homemade Goods Kidz Zone & More!

Music By: HEADLINER - Cody Purvis Rutledge Low Low Chariot Rare Form & Elvis tribute artist Taylor Rodriguez!

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

Project Faith 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.

F

ourteen years ago, Faith Christian School was a young school with a need to raise money and a heartfelt desire 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 Project 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.

On Project Faith day, typically the last Friday in April, the entire Faith Christian 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 organizations 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 recipient. 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 America, 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.”

“...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 expertise. 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 benefit the larger community, while the end of the day is focused primarily on the entire school enjoying the company of each other.

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 additional corporate sponsorship from the Roanoke Valley and far beyond.

“Project Faith is their first interaction with community service and can spark a love for service,” Sarah McCurdy, Faith Christian Senior

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 service 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-

Faith Christian is a JK-12 Christian classical school located on Buck Mountain 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-deductible donation to Project Faith, you may send it to Faith Christian School, Attn: Project Faith, 3585 Buck Mountain Road, Roanoke, VA 24018. With questions, call 540-769-5200 and ask for the Development Office.

s l e e H Healing FOR

Join us for our annual women’s luncheon benefitting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

Friday, April 24, 2015 11:30am - 1:30pm The Berglund Center

www.carilionclinic.org/cmn Shoe Raffle | VIP Experience |Silent Auction $50 Individual | $400 Table of 8

Reserve Tickets

540.224.4747

PR ESENTED BY

cmnhospitals@carilionclinic.org

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

A single NICU isolette in Carilion Clinic Children’s Hospital can cost over $40,000, and a local charity is helping out. And by wearing high heels no less.

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

Heels for Healing is a giant charity silent auction and raffle. It is put on by Carilion 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

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 cmnhospitals@carilionclinic.org to reserve your tickets.

Spring Fever Surviving

By Katie Lewis

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 existence. 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 yearbook, 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 embrace spring. I soak up the sun and get outside whenever possible. When April 22

Growing Up In the Valley • April 2015

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 essential to healthy bones. Forego the video games and t.v. and enjoy the weather. 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 homework 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 productivity 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 assessments. This can be overwhelming and cause some students to shut down. Use spring as the

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 importantly, theirs.

April 2015 • growingupinthevalley.com

23

Family Fun

Sandwiches with a Smile Liven 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!

4092 Electric Road Roanoke 360 Arbor Drive Christiansburg

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Growing Up In the Valley • April 2015

Health

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

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 bacteria 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 significantly 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 Symptoms Allergy symptoms in children can vary and can often mimic colds, but Dr. Dziadzio said that there are certain 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 repeatedly after eating a particular food. Common symptoms 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

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

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Growing Up In the Valley • April 2015

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.

Treatments Today, 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 medications 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 - sublingual immunotherapy - that she has been prescribing in lieu of allergy shots. Instead of an injection, the child is given a pill that dissolves under the tongue. Although currently only approved by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) 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 immunology 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 info@growingupinthevalley.com

April 2015 • growingupinthevalley.com

27

Stars of the Valley

Congratulations Macy on Platinum and First Place!

Good Luck at Nationals!

Love, Mom, Dad & Noah Grandma, Grandpa Mawmaw & Pawpaw

Happy birthday aunt Sammara!

Love, Baby Johnathan

Congratulations Ava on your first race!

Happy Birthday Caleb!

We LOVE you Evelyn!

Love, Aunt Dee, Uncle James & Cousin Bug

Happy Birthday Dad and April!

Love Sierra , Joey and The Duke

Brava Anika!

We loved your play!

Encore!

Mom, Dad & Evie

Round of Applause Share your congratulations! Email Josh@growingupinthevalley.com to be in our Round of Applause

· · · ·

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Growing Up In the Valley • April 2015

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

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More happens here.

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

Saturday, December 12 2015

Hopstoch Maze

Solve more.

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

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Learn more. www.northcross.org/more

April 2015 • growingupinthevalley.com GUITV_More_ThirdPage.indd 1

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3/24/15 11:38 AM

Kids Korner

The Adventures of Eliza & Joey Chapter 2 In 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. 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—

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

30 Growing Up In the Valley • April 2015

—Nothing. She exhaled, relieved.

But then, out of the corner of her eye, she caught movement: 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

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 obvious 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 moment. “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!”

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 become 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 earlier. “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, determined. “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 disappeared inside.

“Joey,” Eliza called out as loud as she could, “what are you doing?”

To Be Continued...

“Luck?” the other voice shouted. “Why would I need luck, you worthless lump on a log! I am one of the best fighters in April 2015 • growingupinthevalley.com

31

Family Fun

D.I.Y Paper Bouquet

1 2

3

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 Supplies: • Colored paper • Glue • Scissors

great kid craft ideas at wonderfuldiy.com Instructions: 1. Cut paper into long thin rectangles. You will need 2 pieces; one for the flower and one for the stem.

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6

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 towards the creased edge, then set aside.

4. Cut the green thin rectangle in half.

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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.

8

7. Using the other half of the green paper, cut to half the height of the stem. Accordian fold the paper.

8. While holding the paper in the accordian 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!

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Growing Up In the Valley • April 2015

9

Stars of the Valley

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

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

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

With her best friend having moved recently to the Virginia Beach area, she said that her weekends this Summer 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 anyone 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 grandmother I could have EVER hoped for my son! She loves her “granny and baby” time and keeps him a ton for my husband and I to have some adult time!”

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 confesses, “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 positive impact in her children’s lives, and to all those who have come in contact with her over the years. “My mom deserves 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!”

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

April 2015 • growingupinthevalley.com

33

Kids Eat(orFree Cheap!)

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Ragazzi’s Roanoke 11 AM - 4 PM 1 free kid’s meal per adult (10 & under) Steak’n’Shake Hershberger Road All Day 1 free kid’s meal per adult ($8 or more) Local Roots Grandin All Day 1 free kid’s meal per adult T.G.I.Fridays Valley View All Day 1 free kid’s meal per adult (12 & under) Moe’s Blacksburg All Day One 99 cent kids meal per adult

Monday

Buffalo Wild Wings Valley View 4 PM - 9 PM 1 free kid’s meal per adult McAllister’s Deli Towers Mall 5 PM - Close 2 free kid’s meals per adult Firehouse Subs Blacksburg All Day 2 free kid’s meals per adult (14 & Under) Famous Anthony’s Roanoke & Vinton 3 PM - Close 1 free kid’s meal per adult Country Cooking Brambleton & Melrose 4 PM - Close 1 free kid’s meal per adult.

IHOP Valley View 4 PM -8 PM 1 free kid’s meal per adult (12 & Under)

Tuesday

Macado’s All Roanoke Locations 4 PM - 9 PM One $1 kid’s meal per adult

Queso Southwestern Grill Market Building All Day 1 free kid’s meal per adult ($8 or more) Town Center Tap House Daleville All Day 2 free kid’s meals per adult.

Brambleton Deli Roanoke 11 AM - 9 PM 1 free kid’s meal per adult.

River City Grill Radford 4 PM - 10 PM 1 free kid’s meal per adult (12 & under)

Wednesday

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

Thursday

The Roanoker Roanoke 4:30 PM - Close 2 free kid’s meals per adult ( 10 & under) River City Grill Radford 4 PM - 10 PM 1 free kid’s meal per adult (12 & under)

Saturday

Tokyo Express Salem All Day 1 free kid’s buffet per adult (5 & under)

Sun

Mon

Tues

National Autism Awareness Month

Wed 1

Thurs 2

Fri 3

4 Salem Red Sox Fest Lewis Gale Field,Salem 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM Storybook Science Science Museum of Western Virginia 10:30 AM

Children’s Book Day

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6

12

Easter

7

8

9

No Housework Day

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Chipotle Night with Salem Montessori School Towers Chipotle 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Sat

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11

National Sibling Day

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Young At Art Taubman Museum 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM

Big Lick Kid Fest 10:00 AM

Elmwood Park, Roanoke

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2nd Annual Chocolate Festival Downtown Blacksburg 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Blue Ridge Kite Fest

Green Hill Park, Roanoke

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

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56th Annual International Street Fair Downtown Blacksburg 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM

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Drop-In Storytime Barnes & Noble Valley View Mall 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

National Jelly Bean Day

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Vinton Dogwood Festival April 22-26 Downtown Vinton

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Hairspray Mill Mountain Theatre Apr 29-May 17, 2015

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Late Night Movie: Buffy the Vampire Slayer Lyric Theatre Blacksburg 11:30 PM - 02:00 AM

Take Your Daughter to Work Day

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Upcoming Events: May the Fourth (Star Wars Day) May 2, 2015 Amazement Square, Lynchburg Strawberry Festival May 1 & 2, 2015 Elmwood Park

Infant Massage

HELPING 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.

April 2015 • growingupinthevalley.com

35

The Guide

See our full calendar at growingupinthevalley.com/calendar April 1 •Wednesday

April 4 • Saturday

Radford Bunny Trail 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM Downtown Radford Free

Easter Egg Hunt + Vendor Market 9 AM- 2 PM Moneta Fire Department, Moneta Free All Ages

April 3 • Friday River Rock Homeschool Days 10 AM - 3 PM River Rock Climbing, Roanoke $10/person Ages 5+ riverrockclimbing.com Pump-It-Up Parent’s Night Out 6:30 PM - 10 PM Pump-It-Up, Roanoke $20/Child $15/Sibling Ages 2-10 (Potty trained) Registration Required 540-345-7867

The Salvation Army New River Valley Spring Fling 9 AM - 1:30 PM Salvation Army, Christiansburg Free All Ages Home Depot Kids Workshop 9 AM - 12 PM Franklin & Hershberger Locations, Roanoke Free Ages 5-12 Reserve your spot today: Franklin 540-772-3087 Hershberger 540-265-7655

COME

Four Corners Farm Easter Egg-stravaganza 10 AM- 12 PM Four Corners Farm, Rocky Mount Free All Ages Roanoke Valley Comic-Con 10 AM- 4 PM Berglund Civic Center, Roanoke $5/Person All Ages

Red Sox Home Games

April 16-22 April 28-30 Full Schedule + Times at

salemsox.com

IT H PL AY W AT T H E

US

ER! S CENT DUMA

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

MAY 28TH - JUNE 14TH

SHOW PARTNERS

SHOW SPONSORS

SEASON PARTNERS

SEASON SPONSORS

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

roanokechildrenstheatre.org

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

More details online:

36

Growing Up In the Valley • April 2015

The Guide Easter Celebration @ Smith Mountain Lake 10:30 AM - 12 PM Discovery Center, Smith Mountain Lake State Park Free (Does not include parking) All Ages

April 11 • Saturday

April 17 • Friday

Big Lick Kid Fest 10 AM Elmwood Park, Roanoke $8/person 4&Under Free All Ages

Storybook Science 10:30 AM- 11:15 AM Science Museum of Western Virginia Center in the Square, Roanoke Ages 3-5 Free for Members Regular Admission for Non-Members smwv.org

April 14 • Tuesday

Parents Night Out 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Christiansburg Aquatic Center $30.00/Child www.christiansburg.org/aquatics 540-381-7665

Easter Egg Hunt 11:30 AM- 3:30 PM Elmwood Park, Roanoke All Ages Free American Girl Paris Tea Party 1 PM Tanglewood Barnes & Noble Free with Reservation All Ages 540-776-2960 Reservations Required. Limited Space available.

Chipotle Night 3 PM - 8 PM Chipotle, Towers Location All Ages Proceeds Benefit Salem Montessori School

April 18 • Saturday 2nd Annual Blacksburg Chocolate Festival 11 AM - 6 PM Downtown Blacksburg Free to Attend $10/ 10 tasting tickets All Ages www.blacksburgchocolatefestival.com

April 29-May 17, 2015 Wed – Sat at 7:30pm Sat/Sun at 2pm Mill Mountain Theatre Journey 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 understanding. High spirited and fun, this show will leave you singing and dancing!

Salem Red Sox Fest 12 PM - 4 PM Lewis Gale Field, Salem All Ages Free

April 6 • Monday Yoga for Young Children 6 PM Main library, Roanoke Toddlers & caregivers Free

April 7 • Tuesday Chick-Fil-A Family Night Salem Location 5 PM - 7 PM All Ages Free

April 10 • Friday Bricks 4 Kids Summer Camp Preview 10 AM- 4 PM Bricks 4 Kids, Roanoke $30/Child 540-380-2485 April 2015 • growingupinthevalley.com

37

Cartoons, Cupcakes & Crafts

May 30•June 6•June 20•June 27•July 25•Aug 1•Aug 15•Sept 5

Enjoy our free family fun days throughout the whole summer!

presented by:

The Guide Blue Ridge Kite Festival 10 AM - 4 PM Green Hill Park, Roanoke Free Admission and Parking All Ages

April 19 • Sunday 56th Annual International Street Fair 12 PM - 5 PM Downtown Blacksburg Date: Sunday, April 19, 2015 Free All Ages

April 24 • Friday Heels for Healing 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM Berglund Civic Center Adults Only Tables 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 being raffled off by Yarid’s and participate in a fabulous silent auction.

Vinton Dogwood Festival

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

April 22-28

Carnival April 22-28

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

Free Kid Zone

April 26 10 AM - 2 PM Vinton Farmer’s Market Area

60th Annual Parade April 26 2:30 PM Downtown Vinton

5K Dogwood Walk/Run April 26, 8:30 AM

April 25 • Saturday Everything Country Fest 12 PM - 9 PM Phase-2 Club, Lynchburg $10/person Party for the Planet 11 AM- 4 PM Mill Mountain Zoo, Roanoke Adults: $8.00 Children: $6.00 All Ages Lyric Theatre Late Night Movie 11:30 PM - 2 AM Lyric Theatre, Blacksburg $5.00/ Person

May 1 & 2 Community School’s 35th annual Strawberry Festival Elmwood Park, Roanoke ​Friday: 10:00 am - 5:30 pm Saturday: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Shortcakes $6.00 Berries and Cream $3.50 Adult Sundae $5.50 Child Sundae $3.50 April 2015 • growingupinthevalley.com

39

2015 Season

Hairspray April 29 - May 17

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

Why Age 7 is the Right Time to Visit the Orthodontist With regards to orthodontic treatment

On Golden Pond Sept. 30 - Oct. 11

42nd Street Dec. 2 - 20

Piano Man: March 28 Opry Divas: June 6 540.342.5740 www.millmountain.org

nothing is truer than the old saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Consequently, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends 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 appearance.

By age seven, any jaw relationship discrepancies that exist will be evident and the orthodontist will discuss with you and your child appropriate treatment 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 recognized 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 pictures 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 dental and skeletal development and even facial esthetics.

For most, this initial evaluation is simply reassurance that no significant problems exist. If treatment is recommended, make sure you understand why it must be completed now as opposed to later when the child undergoes comprehensive orthodontic treatment. 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, MS McCorkle and Jones Orthodontics

Springtime StrawberRy SweEts -advertisement-

Strawberry-Orange Smoothie ingredients: 3 cups of vanilla yogurt 10 oz of frozen strawberries 2 tablespoons of orange juice 1 tablespoon of honey

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

k $1.85 per serving

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

www.growingupinthevalley.com/strawberry Federally insured by the NCUA.

The Guide

ROANOKE VALLEY GROCERY PRICE COMPARISON Grocery 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.

Wish Upon a Star Fairytale Characters for your next birthday!

Fair ytalebir thdays.com 42

Growing Up In the Valley • April 2015

The Guide

April 2015 • growingupinthevalley.com

43

O.C . D

Mom Businesses

Cleaning Service Cosmetics (540) 815-2063 Licensed & Insured! info@freshcutslawncare.com

Mary Kay

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

Mary Kay

Erin Foster 540-797-2573 efoster06@verizon.net

It Works!

Tessie Martin 540-815-2466 tessie.martin@me.com

Avon

Angela Helms ahelms28.avon@yahoo.com

Custom Name Art

Origami Owl

Go Green Cleaning

Lisa Cone 540-815-1014 lisa4charms@cox.net

Origami Owl

Ashley Dufey 540-529-5237 duffeysrus@gmail.com

Lia sophia

Amanda Doss 540-797-455 amandaeliz13@gmail.com

Premier Designs Jewelry

A + Custom Cleaning

Cookie Lee Jewelry

Angela Dooley 540-598-0132 javonsmom@aol.com

Heritage Makers

teresa.familyfunnight@gmail.com

amyamandacarter@yahoo.com

Jamberry Nail Wraps

Ashley Tommason 540-793-4003 laylaraesmom@yahoo.com

Brittany Scott 540-525-2849 britt89scott@gmail.com

Origami Owl

Beth Bell 540-312-3722 bethboydbell@gmail.com

Ferguson Fitness

Johanna Ferguson 540-797-8952 johannaferguson@gmail.com

Heather M. Webb 540-958-3981 earnfreejewels4u@yahoo.com

Jewelry

Teresa Martin

Amy Carter 540-580-8775

Avon

Christine Simon 540-230-6898 csimon.avon@gmail.com

www.jovialcreations.com

Origami Owl

Services

Alicia Pfeiffer 540-521-5722

apluscustomcleaning.vpweb.com

ACE Skinny

Kelly Campbell 540-691-5355 aceskinny4u@gmail.com

Ameriplan

Elizabeth Myers 540-793-4895 elizabeth@healthysavingsco.com

Creative Starts

Angie Yates 540 915 3381 angie@creative-starts.com

Kate Henretta (321) 863-3859

FIND YOUR VOICE. childrenschoir.com mythirtyone.com/katehenretta

Krista Stevenson 540-819-9699 gogreenroanoke@yahoo.com

Heather Turner Photography Heather Turner 540-814-2878

heatherturnerphotography12@gmail.com

Keep It Simple Cleaning Services

Ashley Mullen 540-312-7557 ashleymullen8@gmail.com

KCM Photography

Christie Puckett 540-529-7305 kcmphoto13@yahoo.com

Mom’s Club of Roanoke West & Salem momsclub@aol.com

Pet Pals

Jessica Mather 540-797-2363 yourpetpals@yahoo.com

Phoenix Photography

Kellie Woodford 540-397-2541 Kwoodfordphoenix@gmail.com

Roanoke Reading Clinic Lisa Cone 540-815-1014 lcone@cox.net

Skinny Body Care

Sue Austin 540-397-2376 skinnysue22@gmail.com

Tanya Graybeal’s Music Studio Tanya Graybeal 540-297-1598 N2Beethoven@yahoo.com

Amy’s Piano Studio

Amy Allen 540-588-7953 musikwithamy@gmail.com

OCD Cleaning Service

540-815-2063 info@freshcutslawncare.com

Wow Organizing

540-420-8225 www.woworganizing.com

Gifts

At Home

Christy Riley 540-343-9824 info@csriley.com

Baked Beauties by Bethany Bethany Cline 540-354-4743

bakedbeautiesbybethany@hotmail.com

Beach Combers Jewlery Linda Dewhirst 540-309-9880

beachcombersjewelry@hotmail.com

Celebrating Home

Anna Murrie 540-929-4233 annamurrie@yahoo.com

Celebrating Home

Dunneright Pottery Carol Dunne 540-977-1151 kcnoddle@cox.net

Simply Fun

Teresa Martin

teresa.familyfunnight@gmail.com

Sunday’s Creations

Michelle Mullins-Stephenson 540-314-4482

Sunday Johansen 540-419-0298 sundayjohansen@yahoo.com

Initials Inc.

Thirty One

April Duffey 540-309-2401 shopwithapril@gmail.com

Aimee Franklin Mabrey 540-597-8193 brat775@gmail.com

Miche Bag

Thirty One

Gold Canyon

Sunday Johansen 540-419-0298 sundayjohansen@yahoo.com

Kellie Mirasola kmirasola31@aim.com

Pampered Chef

Michelle Sink 540-819-2590 mrh4buckeye@aol.com

Amy Carter 540-580-8775 amyamandacarter@yahoo.com

Pampered Chef

Kimberly Smith 540-293-1750 a1ntlovegrandx@yahoo.com

Pampered Chef

Wendy Gates 540-977-3003 wendygates@msn.com

Pampered Chef

Christie Phillips 540-204-6009 heymrsphillips@gmail.com

Scentsy

Angela Dooley 540-598-0132 javonsmom@msn.com

Just A Dream Away Travel Save up to 30% on rooms at select Walt Disney World Resort Hotels This Summer

MouseCoachJenn.com

293-5132

Thirty One

Thirty One

Jane Hazelgrove 540-353-2384 Janehazle@gmail.com

Usborne Books

Brianne Clemmer 540-520-9702 Brianne@tazusa.com

Pollywally Doodle

Claire Himphrey 540-313-1881 pwdgifts@outlook.com

Custom Critterz

540-315-7060 www.CustomCritterz.com

Scentsy

Gail Duffy 540-392-7543 gail.duffy@yahoo.com

Linda Kidman 540-977-1956 tlnstar@aol.com

Get your business

HEARD by every family in Southwest & Central VA

Advertise in the largest free publication in the area Dee@mofatmedia.com

lisa.a.johnson83@gmail.com

lijohnson.myrandf.com

decisions... decisions...

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

Allergy Relief Now or Later?

Same-Day Appointments The Doctor will see you now.

Gregory C. Zachmann, M.D. Paul W. Lenkowski, M.D., Ph.D.

540.283.6000 | jeffersonsurgical.com

HERE FOR THE

moments look at that!

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窶馬o appointment necessary.

CarilionClinic.org | 800-422-8482