Fundraise to CURE Arthritis!
More than 50 million Americans including 300,000 children have arthritis the nation’s leading cause of disability. Arthritis costs our economy $128 billion annually. Please help the Arthritis Foundation conquer this painful and debilitating disease. Register today, form a team and raise funds to put a jingle in your step this holiday.
Editor’s Note
The holiday season is approaching so fast this year, we hardly feel like we are prepared! This issue is meant to help you plan out your holiday gatherings. From recipes for turkey to a review of the best and hottest toys out there, Growing Up In the Valley has you covered to help make planning for the quickly approaching holiday season less stressful and more enjoyable.
Of course, it would not be the holiday season without our annual W.R.E.A.T.H.S. celebration! Every day, starting the day after Thanksgiving, we will be performing random acts of Christmas kindness all around the region! W.R.E.A.T.H.S. stands for We Are Reaching Everyone And Treating Holidays Special. We invite you to join in the fun and share in the excitement of spreading holiday cheer. Check out our facebook page for more info and to follow along everyday.
W.R.E.A.T.H.S. is not the only great holiday event that goes on around Roanoke throughout November and December. The holiday season kicks off with the Junior League’s Stocked Market on November 13th at the Berglund Center. The Stocked Market is a great opportunity to get your holiday shopping over with so you can enjoy the TONS of great holiday activities going on all around you! From Fantasy Land at the Virginia Museum of History to Fashions for Evergreens at the Hotel Roanoke, our region is PACKED with great holiday events. Don’t miss out on any of them! Check out the family events calendar on page 33 to see some highlights. Don’t forget, you can always check our website at growingupinthevalley.com for an up to date list before heading out!
So from our family to yours, we hope the start of the holiday season is a great one! Happy Thanksgiving!
The Eagan Family
Andrea, Josh, Anilka and Evelyn
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
Tracy Fisher tracy@growingupinthevalley.com
Charlotte and Evelyn’s Mom
Director of Sales
Dee Reynolds
dee@mofatmedia.com
Aleyna’s Mom
Sales Executive
Kristin Bringewatt kristin@growingupinthevalley.com
Distribution
Leigh Anne Woods law@growingupinthevalley.com
Contributors
November Cover Photo provided by Kevin Hurley Photography Cover Models: Addison and Mason Fogarty
VA 24018
Reach the Editor: andrea@growingupinthevalley.com Request Magazines: josh@growingupinthevalley.com
Advertise: dee@mofatmedia.com
Submit An Event: andrea@growingupinthevalley.com
info@growingupinthevalley.com
Provided by Laurissa Grubb from Blue Eagle® Credit Union
Be Prepared, Because Life Happens
An emergency fund is an essential part of your personal finances. Its importance is stressed in almost every personal finance book and budgeting blog, and yet 26% of Americans currently have no emergency fund in place. Of those who do have an emergency fund, up to two-thirds do not have the often-recommended six months’ worth of expenses saved up.
If an emergency fund is, in fact, so important, why doesn’t it seem that way? Why is it so easy to procrastinate on emergency-fund saving?
The term itself could be a source of confusion. The word “emergency” brings to mind images of car crashes, natural disasters and terrible accidents—and although these are valid examples of emergency expenses that affect people all across the country every day, they’re extreme enough that it’s difficult to imagine ourselves in those situations. It can be difficult to set aside a large chunk of change for emergencies when you “just don’t feel that your car is going to break down today”. Our wants (or discretionary spending) often feel more immediate than our need to cover hypothetical and unpredictable emergency expenses.
The reality is that emergency expens-
es come in many forms and that there are less traumatic examples out there that would be equally good at messing up your financial situation, so it might make more sense to think of your emergency fund as a “life happens” fund.
But, whatever name you give it, absolutely everyone needs an emergency fund in place because no one is exempt from life’s surprises and obstacles—and while we can’t completely prevent emergency situations, we can at least limit their potential damage. An emergency fund allows you to respond immediately to financial emergencies, which allows you to handle the situation without having to deal with additional stresses like struggling to make ends meet or spiraling into a cycle of debt.
If an expense is unexpected (or it results from an unexpected circumstance) and it has the ability to derail your regular cash flow, then it’s an emergency expense. By that definition, a delayed insurance reimbursement is as much of an emergency expense as a meteorite landing on your car. The important part is being prepared for those expenses, no matter how mundane or how extreme they turn out to be.
Let’s look at what types of expense should—and shouldn’t—be dealt with by an emergency fund.
Six Months of Expenses
Expense Type #1: Known Unknowns “Known unknowns” are situations that we can partially anticipate—so this is the type of expense that should not be dealt with by an emergency fund. These situations are on our radar (known), even if we don’t know exactly when they will happen (unknown). For example, if you own a vehicle, you know that at some point it will need repairs, just like you know that your home will eventually need a new furnace or that your pet will eventually need a visit to the vet.
A good budgeting exercise is to make a list of all the known unknown expenses you can think of. Then compare the list to your budget and see if there are any categories you’re not currently saving for. Odds are that there are probably a few areas your current budget doesn’t cover, so you’ll want to adjust it to include these additional categories.
Expense Type #2: Unknown Unknowns
“Unknown unknowns”, which are the types of expenses that emergency funds are truly designed for, are situations that take us completely by surprise. We don’t know when they will happen, how much they’ll cost or even what they will be until they’ve happened. For example, a family member could suddenly fall ill and you need time away from work in order to care for them. Hopefully, you’ll never experience an unknown unknown, but if you do, the knowledge that you have an emergency fund to cover additional expenses will undoubtedly help to ease a stressful situation.
Expense Type #3: Underestimated Known Unknowns
Although your emergency fund is not intended to cover known unknowns, if one of those situations has spiraled into a bigger-than-expected expense, that is something your emergency fund would be able to cover. For example, although you have a budget for regular vet visits, you discover that your beloved pet needs surgery, which will cost $2,000.
Or you might have savings to cover your car insurance deductible, but it takes three months longer than expected to receive reimbursement from the insurance company. In these situations, it makes sense to dip into your emergency fund to cover an underestimated known unknown.
How much money should be in your emergency fund?
Emergency funds vary widely from person to person. The regular recommendation is six months’ worth of expenses, but some prefer having nine months’ or a year’s worth tucked away. It’s a significant amount, as it should be—it’s what you would be living off if you didn’t have an income for an extended period of time. Whatever amount you choose, it’s a hefty savings goal and it will take time to meet it, but it will make all the difference in tough times. When setting your emergency-fund savings goal, consider the following:
• Set mini-goals: Saving six months’ worth of expenses might sound downright impossible right now—and that’s a completely normal reaction. Instead of feeling overwhelmed and giving up on the idea, choose a smaller goal and
then gradually increase it over time. When you’re just starting out, aim for $500 in your fund; once you’ve reached that goal, congratulate yourself and then set a new goal of $1,000. Once you get there, consider setting weekly or monthly contribution goals to stay on top of your savings.
• Avoid wishful thinking: According to a 2014 Workopolis survey, it takes four months on average to find a new job. When planning your emergency budget, you might like to think that if you lost your job, you could turn it all around in two weeks—but that could be setting yourself up for a very stressful situation. It’s not fun to think about a worst-case scenario, but when it comes to emergency-fund planning, that kind of thinking can help you come up with a more realistic savings goal.
• Imagine your lifestyle: If you had to quit your job in order to handle an emergency situation, what would your lifestyle look like? Would you be willing to rough it until you found a new job? Or would you need things to stay pretty much the same to stop your stress levels from skyrocketing? Consider your desired lifestyle carefully when
planning your emergency fund. If maintaining your current lifestyle in times of emergency is a priority to you, you may want to save nine months’ worth of income, rather than nine months’ worth of expenses. But if rolling with the punches and going back to a diet of ramen noodles while you figure things out is more your style, then a smaller emergency fund would likely be able to meet your needs.
Ultimately, your emergency fund is about your peace of mind. Design it to fit your specific needs.
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.
Gift Guide Holiday 2015
Board Games
Article by: Tracy Fisher
Santa may be making his list and checking it twice, but what about you? We’ve found the hottest toys and games for kids today (plus a couple of surprises for the grown-ups on your holiday gift list!)
Sushi Go!
$12
Target
Settlers of Catan Junior
$24
Toys R Us
The record-breaking European style board game has grown in popularity over the years, and now has a family edition to allow young players to join in on the fun!
Hey, That’s My Fish!
$15
Target
This silly game with great artwork is another awesome choice for players who can’t read yet. You play as a selfish penguin, trying to nab all the fish and block the other penguins on the iceburg.
Fauna
$30
This fast paced card game is perfect for all ages. The game doesn’t require any reading, so even your preschoolers can get in on the fun. Bring it with you the next time you go out to eat. It’s perfectly timed to keep kids entertained while waiting for their food.
Amazon.com
Most educational board games are too easy for adults to join in, but Fauna has two different tracks for school aged players and their parents. There is also a junior version for even younger players.
U.B. Funkeys
$35
Toys R Us
LeapPad Platinum
$130
Major Retailers
Keep your own tablet safe by giving your child one of their own.
LeapFrog products are tough enough to be handled by kids and smart enough to teach kids ages 2-10.
Unlock new games & virtual worlds with these funky figurines. Each figurine has different powers and skills to help you level up in the online video game.
Splatoon | Wii U
$60
Major Retailers
Sick of unnecessary violence in video games aimed towards kids? Splatoon keeps it clean, while getting messy! Instead of shooting enemies, you cover the game board and spray opponents with brightly colored ink.
Block $20/Month or $14/Month www.nerdblock.com
Do you love horror movies? Or maybe you’re really into sci-fi?
Nerd Block is the only toy and collectible subscription that lets you choose your preferred overall theme. They also offer child-appropriate boxes at a lower price. Nature Box $20/Box www.naturebox.com
Have a wide variety of delicious and healthy natural snacks sent to your door weekly, bi-weekly or monthly.
$20/Month www.candyclub.com Discover new and tasty candies with this traditional candy of the month club box subscription!
Action For the Kids Comedy
Pitch Perfect 2 PG-13
Avengers: Age of Ultron PG-13
Jurassic World PG-13
Out
Shaun The Sheep PG
Jane the Virgin TV 14
Mission Impossible: Rogue Nations PG-13
For Your Library
The Martian by Andy Weir
$13
Major Retailers
Read the book that inspired the record breaking movie! The book gives you an inside look at the sarcastically suspenseful logs of a stranded astronaut on Mars as he struggles to grow food and create water on a frozen, desert planet. Mild language warning.
What Pet Should I Get?
by Dr. Seuss
$14
Major Retailers
This never-ever-before-seen picture book by Dr. Seuss about making up one’s mind is the literary equivalent of buried treasure! It was discovered in the late author’s belongings and finished for publication by his long time coworker, Cathy Goldsmith.
First & Then by Emma Mills
$10
Major Retailers
Over 65,000
Youtube Subscribers
What happens when you combine Pride & Prejudice and Friday Night Lights? You end up with this amazing YA novel by Youtuber Elmify (Emma Mills).
Toys for All Ages
Rubik’s Revolution
$20 Target
The newest Rubik’s Cube features six games. You follow and press the lights on each side of the cube by turning and spinning it to challenge your memory.
Little Tikes Sizzle-nServe Grill
$25
Major Retailers
Now kids can grill just like Mom and Dad. The pretend grill has cool colors, wheels for portable play, realistic styling, and 14 fun accessories.
Buck the Deer Mailman
$55 Amazon.com
A high-tech version of the walkie talkies you grew up with. Friends and family can send recorded voice messages using the free iOS & Android apps.
Shopkins Scoops Ice Cream Shop
$20 Target
The craze of Shopkins isn’t showing signs of slowing down. This playset includes 2 exclusive characters for your little one’s collection.
Experiences
Amazement Square Museum
Membership
$90/Year (3 Family members, add ons available)
Membership includes unlimited admission, 10% off gift shop & facility rentals and discounts on workshops, classes and museum events.
River Rock Climbing
Membership
$138/Month (Family of 4)
Membership includes free rental for climbers 14 years and younger, guest passes, discounts on birthday parties, free classes & instructional help and discounts at partner businesses.
Clinic Name
1234 Street Name, Ste #123 This Street and That Street (555) 555-5555
Science Museum Membership
$95/Year (2 Adults + all children under 18 years old)
Membership includes free admission to the Science Museum exhibits & 50% off Butterfly Garden, free or discounted admission to all special events and discounts on summer camps, birthday parties, and museum store purchases.
YMCA Membership
$80/Month (2 Adults + dependant children)
Membership includes free exercise classes, discounts on youth programs (such as swimming and gymnastic classes), and free childcare.
ROANOKE
2037 Colonial Ave. SW
Towers Shopping Center
(540) 343-9600
Ye Olde Salem
Christmas
December 5
10 AM - 3 PM
Farmer’s Market
Stories, Cider, Baked Goods & Lots of Fun!
Gingerbread Festival at the Salem Library
Gingerbread House Competition
Kid’s Activities
Craft & Food Vendors
Live Holiday Entertainment
The No-Cavity Plan
Readers, this information has been prepared to help you understand your child’s preventive dental care program. If implemented, these are the aspects of home dental care that can help assure your child will have a lifetime of excellent dental health.
Article by: Dr. Corey Sheppard, DDS
First Dental Exam by the First Birthday
It is recommended that children have their first dental exam by the time the first tooth erupts and no later than their first birthday. Establish a dental home for your child where a pediatric dentist can provide you with preventive education, a place to go during times of oral trauma, and a lifetime of proper oral health care.
Flossing
• If there is no space between the teeth, flossing is VERY important.
• You should floss at least 2-3 times per week.
• You need to floss teeth with no spaces between them, such as the molars.
• Flossing aids like Floss Sticks can make flossing easier for you and your child.
Brushing
• Parents must take active role.
• You should brush at least 2-3 times per day, especially at night.
• Use an egg timer or a song to keep brushing for 2 minutes.
• Brush in round circles with angle toward the gumline.
• Toothpaste with fluoride should be used for all kids. Children below three years of age use a very small amount about the size of a grain of rice.
Liquids
• Water (with no flavoring added) is the safest and best thing for your child to be drinking.
• Limit juice, milk, tea, soda and other sugary drinks to specific meal times.
• Never put your child to bed with a bottle or sippy cup full of milk, juice, or diluted juice.
• Have your child drink a little water
after meal and snack times.
Foods
• Foods containing carbohydrates and starches (chips, crackers, cereal) can promote tooth decay.
•The stickier the food, the longer it remains on the teeth, the greater the chance of tooth decay.
• Avoid gummy type vitamins and gummy snacks.
• Provide a balanced diet and try to save foods with sugar and starch for mealtimes only.
Sugarfree Gum
• Chewing of sugarfree gum between meals is encouraged. Look specifically for sugarfree gum with XYLITOL sugar substitute.
Frequency
• Remember that it is the frequency that the food or drink comes in contact with the teeth that play an important role in causing tooth decay. It is not how much you eat but how often you eat snacks that causes more tooth decay.
• Try to eliminate “grazing” behavior or frequent snacking or drinking (unless it’s water)
The most important way to avoid a cavity is to help your child brush their teeth daily.
Start off on the right track by scheduling your child’s dental exam by age 1.
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact a member of our pediatric dental team at Anderson & Sheppard Pediatric Dentistry. www.PediatricDentistryRoanoke.com (540)-989-3639
Jingle All the Way...To the Finish Line
Article by: Dee Reynolds Stars of
“Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle All The Way! Oh, What Fun It Is To RUN ….”
Yes, you heard me. RUN! Unless you’d rather walk... That’s fine, too! And that is exactly what many in Southwest and Central Virginia will come together to do on Saturday, December 15, 2015 in support of the Arthritis Foundation. The annual Jingle Bell Run/Walk will be celebrating it’s 25th Anniversary this year, the Foundation’s longest running event. This race is a fun (and festive!) race that helps champion arthritis research and brings people together from all walks of life. This annual Jingle Bell Run/Walk is the Roanoke Valley’s way of saying “Yes!” to furthering a great cause!
Many of you will remember a story that we did back in January of this year about Maddie -- a sweet, young girl who has been courageously battling juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. We recently had a moment to talk with Maddie’s mom and get an update on how she is doing. Since our last update, Maddie has spent some time in the hospital battling side effects of her medication and a serious bout of double pneumonia. Since coming home from the hospital, however, she has shown some great improvement with some changes to her medications (four daily!), a weekly injection and one monthly infusion. Her mom tells us that she is a happy, spunky young girl who, despite all of her medical responsibilities, is now able to jump rope, write her name clearly and take dance class! And, boy, can she dance! We were so glad to see Maddie and her dad at the Royal Ball Father/Daughter Dance earlier this year. Maddie was smiling and laughing and dancing up a storm! Her mom, Julie, says “After finding the right cocktail of medications, Maddie even grew five inches and gained nine pounds! She loves PE and lunch...just what every five year old should love!”
While we are definitely encouraged to hear of Maddie’s great progress, it is important to remember that she still battles a very serious disease of arthri-
tis. Without the modern miracles of medication, she would be in a wheelchair and, potentially, going blind. Maddie’s family (and all of those involved in the Jingle Bell Run) fight every day to make sure that people are aware of the detriments of this disease.
Aside from the Arthritis Foundation, many businesses and organizations in the community are rallying behind the Jingle Bell Run/Walk to help thousands
of adults and children to help fight to beat arthritis. Karen McNew McGuire, of Carilion, is the Corporate Chair for this year’s Jingle Bell Run. She reminds us that arthritis affects people, both young and old. “Personally, I have remained an active member of the Jingle Bell Run planning committee over the years, because my grandmother had severe osteoarthritis. My mom also has arthritis. She often says her hands won’t work like they used to… It is my honor to be a part of helping an organization that does so much for patients of all ages.”
“Supporting Roanoke’s Jingle Bell Run for Arthritis, is one more way Carilion is able to support programs and services that help our community remain active and healthy. We invite the community to be a part of this 5k, that provides healthy inspiration for all of us during the busy holiday season,” said Shirley Holland, Carilion Clinic Vice President of Marketing Research and Communications.
Dr. Shanthi Dhaduvai (Carilion Clinic Department of Rheumatology) helped to shed some light on this painful disease, which affects thousands of families every single day. “Over the past couple decades, the field of rheumatology has seen considerable therapeutic advances, and the chance of achieving remission in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis is greater than ever. Arthritis is one of the most common causes of disability in the U.S., and I am truly inspired by patients who take time to educate themselves on their disease processes and push themselves to lead more active lifestyles every day. Working with patients to improve their quality of life through early recognition and aggressive treatment makes being involved with this speciality such a satisfying experience.” On a more personal note, Dr. Dhaduvai adds, “For me, the Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis is a yearly reminder of how far we have come in this field but also presents an opportunity to be an active participant whose contribution to arthritis research will help so many affected by joint disease in decades to come.”
We hope that your family will help to continue the great strides modern medicine has made for those suffering from arthritis, and join Maddie’s family for the Jingle Bell Run/Walk. The 5K run/ walk will take place in Downtown Roanoke, and will be a great way to get in the holiday spirit by giving back to the community and helping those families, just like Maddie’s, who are affected by arthritis every day. For more information -- and for a great discount from Growing Up in the Valley as you look to register your family -- check out the ad in this issue of the magazine! We hope to see you there … with bells on! (Jingle Bells, that is!) And, remember … KIDS GET ARTHRITIS, TOO!
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Photo by Noah Magnifico Photography
Photo by Noah Magnifico Photography
Technology: Too Much of a Good Thing
By: Katie Lewis
A catch 22, a double edged sword, an extreme irony, a paradox for the ages.
Yes, the wonderful world of technology. How can something help and hinder simultaneously? They say too much of anything can be a bad thing. We can’t forget about technology when we consider this proverb. I’m sure you have read many an article on this very topic, but have you ever really considered the impact that it has on the modern classroom environment? We know it can affect one’s health. Many kids don’t get enough exercise due to the technologybased entertainment industry. But do we stop to consider their minds?
I was watching an episode of iCarly with my family the other day. Carly had a date with a young man and was concerned that she wasn’t smart
enough for him. Her rebellious sidekick Sam encouraged her to “cheat” during their date by looking things up on the internet via her phone or tablet. “You’ll be as smart as the internet,” Sam told her. Carly’s response: “The internet is really smart.” It is indeed. Maybe a little too smart.
With everything so easily accessible, why even bother thinking? Not only is it easily accessible, it is quickly accessible. I see a direct correlation to this in the classroom. The other day in class we were analyzing song lyrics that connected to a novel we were reading. I had my students working in pairs to figure out the meaning of the lyrics and reveal the connections. I explained that there could be multiple interpretations. One student said, “Let’s just look it up on Genius, then we will know exactly what the song
means.” My response: “No way. I want to know what YOU think it means.”
Many kids desire to take the quick and easy way out, due, in part, to the digital world in which they have been raised. This has resulted in laziness, and I fear the outcome will be a generation that lacks problem solving and analytical skills.
Don’t get me wrong. Technology enhances education in so many ways. I benefit from it on a daily basis. Through an app called Remind, I can send homework reminders to students’ phones without having their phone numbers or them seeing mine. In a virtual classroom, my students can complete assignments and I can provide immediate feedback. The advantages are astronomical. The possibilities are endless. But all at a
cost. The brains of Generation Z are being heavily molded and shaped by machines. They want concrete answers and they want them now.
For the lowly English teacher, this is a challenge. I want them to analyze, dig deep - THINK. Yet, it’s like pulling teeth. They will give me five minutes, and then they are ready to move on to something else. Why think, they ask, when we can Google what others think?
So now I have presented a problem for which I have no definitively
good answer. Technology is steadily advancing. We can’t stop it. As adult role models we can only reinforce behaviors by doing things such as engaging our children in conversation and encouraging them to think instead of going straight to the Internet for answers. I will end with a story that reveals the negative effects that technology can have on us in regards to our minds, and in this case, even our individuality. One of my friends was telling me about how her son was running for a student council position at the elementary level. He Googled ideas for his campaign slogan and
chose the first one he came to. Guess what? A few other kids at school had the very same idea. Coincidence? I think not.
Why memorize, if we can look it up?
Why create, if we can use someone else’s ideas?
Why even think at all?
I don’t know about y’all, but it gives me a lot to think about.
Thankful Tree Centerpiece
By Andrea Eagan
Materials:
• pot, vase or jar to hold your tree
• large stick with branches
• construction paper or cardstock in fall colors
• included leaf template
• scissors and single hole punch
• crayons or markers
• florists’ foam
• pinto beans (or acorns, chestnuts, etc.)
Directions:
1. Decorate your pot however you choose. Press the foam into the pot and stuff newspaper into any gaps to hold it in place.
2. Push the stick into the foam. Pour beans into the pot until the foam is covered and the stick is stable.
3. Trace and cut out the leaves. Write one thing that your family is thankful for on each leaf.
4. Punch a hole near the stem and hang the leaves on the branches of your tree.
Thankful Leaf Template
By: Andrea Eagan & Tracy Fisher
Grilled
Roasted Two Ways to do a Turkey
Ingredients:
• 1 turkey defrosted with any packaging, giblets/neck removed
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup coarse salt
• 2 1/2 tablespoons ground pepper
Directions:
1. Pat turkey dry and let sit at room temperature for 1 hour. Fill turkey with herbs and spices or stuffing of your choice; tie the legs closed.
2. Open the grill vents. Place a chimney starter on the small lower grill grate, put 50 charcoal briquettes in starter, and ignite; let burn until briquettes turn gray. Remove chimney starter, center roasting pan on grate, and pour out coals, dividing evenly on each long side of pan. Top with main grill grate.
3. Combine oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub or brush mixture all over turkey.
4. Place turkey on top grate, directly over roasting pan, and cover with grill lid (keep lid vent open). Every 45 minutes, add 8 unlit briquettes on each long side of roasting pan to keep heat even.
5. Cook turkey until a thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (and the stuffing) reads 165 degrees (about 12 minutes per pound with stuffing). Remove from heat, and let rest 20 minutes before carving.
Ingredients:
• 1 turkey, defrosted with any packaging, giblets/neck removed
• salt
• pepper
• 1 to 2 cups broth or water
Directions:
1. Pre-heat oven to 500 degrees.
2. Place turkey on rack in large roasting pan. Rub outside of the turkey with salt and pepper. Fill turkey with herbs and spices (aromatics) or stuffing of your choice; tie the legs closed. Add water or broth to the roasting pan.
3. Cover with foil and cook at 500 degrees for one hour.
4. Reduce heat to 375 degrees and cook for about two hours or until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 165 degrees. Remove foil about 30 minutes before the end of cooking time and baste.
5. When the meat is fully cooked (at least 165 degrees), remove from oven. Using an oven mitt, raise one side of the roasting rack so that the juices run into the pan. Lift the roasting rack (with turkey on it) out of the pan and place on a cutting board. Cover with foil and let rest for about 30 minutes before carving.
Parent of the Month Chris Patterson
Logan (13) says “My dad is the best dad because he works hard to provide for us, is cool and does almost everything we want.”
Chris works very hard at whatever he does. During the years that I stayed at home with our youngest, he worked 60+ hours a week to make up for my lost income. We have no doubt that as a wife and his children, we are greatly loved by him. He loves to spend time with the kids, whether its wrestling around with them, playing video games, watching movies, running, riding bikes or camping. Chris makes a point to be there for all the boys’ programs, events, and special occasions (even the times when they don’t want him to!) He tries to lead our children by example, helping them make the right choices, and letting them make their own mistakes so they can learn from those mistakes.
He may not be Superman, but to our kids, he is their super hero.
Children’s names/ages: Noah 4 Nathan 10 Logan 13
What inspires you? It is anything from something I read to seeing someone doing something selfless.
What are you most proud of? My wife and 3 kids.
What motivates you? I always want to get better at what I am doing no matter if its personal or professional.
Do you have any advice for other parents? Learn Grace. God gives us grace when we do not deserve it, sometimes as parents we need to give our kids some grace. That lesson sometime will get their attention more than any punishment. You also have to be able to laugh at yourself and with your kids.
What is the biggest challenge in your life? Trying to be a husband, father, son and a friend. Trying to find enough time to do them all right.
How do you help others? Trying to available. Time is something that is in short supply around our house.
How would you describe your parenting style? I am trying to a better job on this. I am trying to be more flexible with this and adapt to situation at hand.
What is on your iPod? Red /Feed the Machine
What can you not live without? Faith
What is your favorite date night venue? Somewhere that does not sell chicken nuggets.
What do you always have with you? IPhone
What is your favorite movie? Most 80’s comedies Goonies, Ghostbusters Army Of Darkness, BeetleJuice. ETC.
What would people be surprised to know about you I enjoy cooking.
By Dee Reynolds
Attention All Shoppers! Tips To Make Black Friday Shopping Easier
For some, there’s nothing like the rush of getting a great bargain on Black Friday. For others, they cringe at the traffic and the lines and the early hours. Some live for it, and some tolerate it. But, if you’re smart, you can make the most out of the busiest shopping day of the year. Growing Up in the Valley has some great tips to help as you plan your day-afterThanksgiving shopping spree!
Start Early. It used to be that shoppers didn’t know all of Black Friday deals until the ads came out in the Thanksgiving Day newspaper. Now, many of the ads can be found online (some even as early as October!) Go online to get a head start. Check out www.blackfriday.com, or www. bfads.net for a sneak peak of what to expect. For many loyal customers, many of the stores will release their Black Friday deals as early as Wednesday. Beat the crowds and see if your favorite stores will be offering discounts earlier in the week.
Price Check. If you’re going after one particular item
(electronics, especially) do some research on what is a good deal and who has the best prices. Check the cost of your item now, and see if you’re really saving all that much on Black Friday specials. Some websites such as pricegrabber.com, shopping. com and pricewatch.com will compare prices across mutliple retailers. If you’re not saving all that much buying then vs. now, then save yourself the Black Friday rush! Another great tool for shoppers is the BuyVia app, which allows your to search local deals on a specific item and also find any available coupons! Want to be alerted if a price on a certain item drops? Check out Poachit.com. You’ll be alerted when there is a change in pricing.
Sign Up for Alerts. If you have a favorite retailer, go online and see if they offer a newsletter for their customers. Sometimes, you can be alerted
early of specials that are coming down the line. Check out their website, Facebook or Twitter pages and start following them! Many offer exclusive previews of their Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals and/or special rebates for consumers on their email lists.
Check Reviews. You may be getting a flat screen for $89 bucks … But, is it a piece of junk? A low price on a lousy item is no bargain. Many retailers such as Amazon.com, Target.com and Walmart.com let buyers review products bought on their website. If you’re going after an electronic item, take a minute to check out several tech sites or even Consumer Reports for information on what is good and what isn’t.
Price Match. Some stores, such as Walmart, will match prices offered in other stores. Check out each store’s policy, and save yourself some time running across town or sitting in traffic if they will honor a deal from a competitor’s ad.
Beware of Mail-In Rebates. It’s always important to read the fine print. What sounds like a great deal in an ad, may require a bit of extra work on your part. If a cell phone is offering a $100 mail-in rebate, make sure you save receipts, original packaging and pay attention to dates. Ask a representative in the store what the rules are so you don’t get stuck
out of time and out of money! In the same regard, many items that may sell out on Black Friday will allow you to purchase a ticket and have the item shipped to you. Make sure you read the fine print. Some of these tickets require you to go online and fill out shipping addresses or a store for pick-up. Make sure you know if you’re getting the exact same product at point of sell-out, or if you’re getting something of similar/equal value. Double check shipping dates for the product, to make sure the item will make in time to be found under the tree!
Take Cash or Credit Card. We all remember the headlines from last year, where Target became victim of one of the largest security breaches on Black Friday. If you carry cash, you’re safe from these types of scams. (Just keep the cash close to you and don’t carry unnecessary amounts…) Shopping with a credit card vs. debit card could limit your financial liability in case of fraud. If your debit card is compromised, your whole checking account could be at risk. But, if you’re shopping with a credit card and fall victim to fraud - it may be easier (and cheaper!) to recuperate any stolen funds. And, as any time when shopping, keep your purse close to you and your wallet zipped up in your purse. Don’t flash your cash around, if you’re shopping without the plastic. And, be sure to lock your car in and out of stores. People on Black Friday will have hundreds of dollars worth of merchandise in their car, and thieves know it!
Set a Budget. You made a list of all the items you are on a mission to get. But, what happens when you get into the store and find bargains on things you never thought of? It’s tempting to take advantage of all the deals, in all of the stores. Set a budget for yourself so you don’t over extend yourself financially. Setting a budget may keep you coming home with extra throw pillows, smelly candles and a fancy new gadget that you may not really need. You could also leave your credit/debit card home and take only cash. When you’re out of money, you’re out of money!
Check Return/Exchange Policies. If you’re buying for others, make sure
you know a retailer’s exchange or return policy in case the shirt doesn’t fit, or the electronics don’t work. Be aware of any restocking fees, shorter return deadlines or any other terms and conditions. This could really determine where you choose to shop, and where you choose not to shop. This is especially important when shopping online, or buying electronics. Know before you buy! And remember to ask for a gift receipt if you’re shopping for other people. This will make it easier for them to return the item easily, without hassle.
Don’t Give Up! Many people become discouraged when they arrive at a retailer and find that they have missed out on their favorite deal. Have the store call around to other locations in the area and see if they have any in stock. Ask them to hold it, if they will. Just in Southwest and Central Virginia, we have multiple Wal-Mart, K-Mart, Target, malls, and other stores. It never hurts to go back the day after Black Friday to see if someone changed their mind! In all of the Black Friday madness, things can get moved out of place, people can change their mind at the check-out or return something for a better deal they found elsewhere. Go back the day after and see if there are items in the “Go Back” carts, or see if the mess has been cleaned up and there’s a spare deal lying around.
Be Careful. Last but not least … Be careful out there! There are some folks who will do anything for a bargain, including punching, shoving, yelling, etc. No deal is worth getting a black eye over. And, try to be patient when driving and parking. Be on the look-out for those not paying attention in their cars. Keep your belongings close to you and your purchases locked up. Don’t read the newspaper ads while trying to navigate through mall traffic, and try to make sure you shop with a friend if you’re standing in line in the wee hours of the morning when it’s still dark out. Have fun while shopping and try to make it a great day! If you follow some of these tips, you should have an easy day of knocking out that Christmas list. And, don’t forget -- treat yourself, too!
8 Fun Facts About Christmas
By Dee Reynolds
1. Alabama became the first state in the U.S. to declare Christmas a legal holiday in 1836, while Oklahoma was the last in 1907.
2. Electric Christmas tree lights were first used in 1895.
3. If you were to receive ALL of the gifts from the song “12 Days of Christmas”, you would have 364 presents!
4. Christmas became a federal holiday in June of 1970.
5. Tinsel was actually once made of real silver! It was invented in Germany in 1610.
6. The popular Christmas song “Jingle Bells” was written in 1857 by James Pierpont. It was originally called “One Horse Open Sleigh” and was intended to be a Thanksgiving song.
7. The tallest Christmas tree ever displayed was in Seattle, Washington back in 1950. It was an amazing 221 feet tall!
8. There are three towns in the United States that are named Santa Claus. One is in Arizona, one is in Georgia and one is in Indiana.
Roanoke Kids Eat Free!
Everyday
Mama Maria’s
11 AM - 2 PM
3 & under free buffet with paid adult W. Main St., Salem (540) 389-2848
Golden Corral
All Day
3 & under free buffet with paid adult 1441 Towne Square Blvd., Roanoke (540) 563-8826
The Great 611 Steak Company
All Day
3 & under, 1 child buffet per paid adult 3830 Franklin Rd., Roanoke (540) 989-4675
Shoney’s
All Day
4 & under, free kids meal with adult entree purchase. Drink not included 2673 Lee Highway, Troutville (540) 992-6400
Lil Cucci’s
All Day (Closed Sunday & Monday)
10 & under, 1 child per adult meal 1396 Roanoke Rd., Daleville (540) 966-5923
Monday Country Cookin
4 PM - Close
10 & under, 2 children per paid adult
All Locations in Roanoke (540) 774-0199
Famous Anthony’s
3 PM - Close
1 child per paid adult
All Locations in Roanoke, Salem, & Vinton (540) 362-1400
McAlister’s Deli
5 PM - Close
2 children per paid adult 2063 Colonial Ave., Roanoke (540) 204-4407
Choose from over 35 restaurants for an affordable family night out on the town!
Buffalo Wild Wings
4 PM - 9 PM
12 & under, 1 child per paid adult
All Locations (540) 725-9464
IHOP
4 PM - 8 PM
12 & under, 1 child per paid adult Valley View Location only, Roanoke (540) 265-4289
Brit and Bud’s Specialty Subs
6 PM - 8 PM
12 & under eligible for half off kids meal 4208 Brambleton Ave., Roanoke (540) 206-3684
El Rio Mexican Grill
All Day
10 & under, 1 child per paid adult
4208 Electric Rd., Roanoke (540) 685-4343
Firehouse Subs
All Day
11 & under, 2 children per paid adult combo,dine in only
800 University City Blvd, Blacksburg (540) 961-0371
Tuesday
Brambleton Deli
11 AM - 9 PM
12 & under, 1 child per paid adult 3655 Brambleton Ave., Roanoke (540) 774-4554
Denny’s
4 PM - 10 PM
12 & under, 1 child per paid adult
All Locations Roanoke & Salem (540) 389-5074
Macado’s
4 PM - 9 PM
12 & under, $1 child meal per paid adult
All Locations in Roanoke & Salem (540) 776-9884
Town Center Tap House
All Day
12 & under, 2 children per paid adult
(540) 591-9991
The Barbecue Grill
All Day
10 & under, 1 child per paid adult 126 E Lee Ave., Vinton (540) 857-0030
Firehouse Subs
All Day
12 & under, 1 child per paid adult Colonial Ave, Town Square & Salem only (540) 345-3131
Pizza Hut
5 PM - Close
10 & under, free buffet per paid adult 1016 Hershberger Rd., Roanoke (540) 362-3834
Ruby Tuesday
5 PM - Close
11 & under, 1 child per paid adult
Valley View & Electric Rd. Locations (540) 265-9301
Wednesday
Dogwood
4 PM - Close
10 & under, per paid adult 106 E. Lee Ave., Vinton (540) 343-6549
The Quarter
All Day
12 & under, 1 child per paid adult
19 Salem Ave., Roanoke (540) 342-2990
Pizza Pasta Pit
4 PM - 9 PM
1 child per paid adult. Drink not included. 1713 Riverview Dr., Salem (540) 387-2885
IHOP
4 PM - 8 PM
12 & under, 1 child per paid adult
Valley View Location only, Roanoke (540) 265-4289
Thursday
CiCi’s Pizza Growingupinthevalley.com/Kids-Eat-Free
90 Town Center St., Daleville
All Day
10 & under .99 cents child buffet per adult buffet
All Locations, Roanoke (540) 344-7711
The Roanoker
4:30 PM - Close
12 & under, 2 children per paid adult 2522 Colonial Ave., Roanoke (540) 344-7746
Jerry’s Family Restaurant
4 PM - Close
6 & under, 1 child per adult meal purchase
1340 E. Washington Ave., Vinton (540) 343-4400
Friday
Saturday
See Everyday Deals!
Famous Anthony’s
12 PM - Close limit 1 kids meal per adult
All Locations Roanoke, Salem, Vinton (540) 362-1400
Steak n’ Shake
All Day
12 & under 1 free per paid $8.00 adult
1309 Hershberger Rd., Roanoke (540) 400-8825
Tokyo Express
11 AM - 3 PM
4 & under free buffet per paid adult
1940 W Main St., Salem (540) 389-6303
IHOP
4 PM - 8 PM
12 & under, 1 child per paid adult Valley View Location only, Roanoke (540) 265-4289
Sunday
Pizza Den
5 PM - 8:30 PM
10 & under free buffet per paid adult buffet and drink purchase
All locations Roanoke, Salem (540) 389-1111
Local Roots
5 PM -9 PM
12 & under eat for free (family style meal) with adult purchase 1314 Grandin Rd., Roanoke (540) 206-2610
WIC’s breastfeeding support helps mothers achieve their breastfeeding goals. WIC offers 24/7 breastfeeding guidance from peer counselors, weekly classes, and a pump loan program for moms returning to work or school.
Roanoke City & Allegheny Health Districts
To see if you qualify for the WIC program go to www.vdh.virginia.gov/ofhs/dcn/wic/WICVA/index.html or call (540) 524-0286.
USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Ragazzi’s 11 AM - 4 PM
10 & under w/paid adult
3843 Electric Rd., Roanoke (540) 989-9022
T.G.I.Fridays
All Day
12 & under 1 w/paying adult
4869 Valley View Blvd., Roanoke (540) 362-1475
Jimmy V’s Restaurant
All Day
4 & under kids meal only $2.50 3403 Brandon Ave., Roanoke (540) 345-7311
Steak n’ Shake
All Day
12 & under 1 free w/paying $8.00 adult 1309 Hershberger Rd., Roanoke (540) 400-8825
Kids Eat Free Inquiries andrea@growingupinthevalley.com
Editor’s note:
Restaurant deals change quickly and often without notice. Growing Up in the Valley strongly recommends calling ahead to confirm any deal listed. This listing is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee a discount.
“WIC has been such a great support to me and my family, especially with breastfeeding my first son. My plan was to stop breastfeeding at 6 months. But the breastfeeding staff at the Roanoke WIC program helped me keep up my milk supply while going back to work with the use of my own personal pump. Grayson is now 21 months and we are going strong! Thanks WIC for the great support and the nutrients that you have provided me and my son.”
- Kristen and Grayson
Family Event Calendar
Ongoing:
38th Annual Holly Daze Craft Show
Cave Springs Lions Club, Roanoke
November 5-7
All ages
Free to attend
Bluegrass Jam
Roanoke City Market
Every Saturday
10 AM - 12 PM
All ages
Free
Stocked Market
Berglund Special Events Center
November 13-15
All ages
$10/advance ticket
$11/at Door
Dickens of a Christmas Downtown Roanoke
December 4: Roanoke Christmas Tree
Lighting
December 11: Roanoke Christmas
Parade
December 18: Pet Costume Contest & Snow Zone
All ages
Free
Sesame Street Live
Salem Civic Center
November 13-15
10:30 AM, 2 PM
All ages
Tickets start at $15
Shrek!
Roanoke Children’s Theatre
December 3-6, 20-22
All ages
Tickets start at $13
A Christmas Carol
D. Geraldine Lawson Performing Arts Center, Fincastle VA
December 3-6, 10-12
All ages
Tickets start at $10
M.O.M (Meet Other Munchkins)
Jessie Peterman Library, Floyd VA
Every Wednesday 11:15 AM- 12:15 PM
All ages
Free
Toddler Tales
Amazement Square, Lynchburg
Every Tuesday 10:30 AM
Ages 5 & Under
Free with museum admission
Saturdays at the Square
Amazement Square, Lynchburg
11 AM
All ages
$3 + museum admission
Candy Cane Express
Virginia Museum of Transportation
December 5-6
All ages
$5 per person
Thursday • November 5
The Producers
Berglund Civic Center
7 PM
All Ages
Tickets start at $32
$5/Parking
Saturday • November 7
Community Fall Festival
Bonsack Elementary 12 PM - 4 PM
All ages
$5/adults
Free/ages 13 & under
New Horizons Community Fall Festival
New Horizons Baptist Church 8 AM - 3 PM
All ages Free
Brew Ha-Ha!
Salem Civic Center
2 PM - 8 PM
Ages 21+
$10/Person
Monday • November 9
Wild Kratts Live
Berglund Civic Center
6:30 PM
All ages
Tickets start at $28
$5/parking
Wednesday • November 11
Free Military Admission
Science Museum of Western VA
Center in the Square, Roanoke
10 AM - 5 PM
Any Military ID
Saturday • November 14
Talent Challenge for Charity Hotel Roanoke
6 PM- 11:30 PM
All ages
$90/person
Gobblers Gala Dance Party
Sapphire Ballroom, Christiansburg
7:30 PM - 11 PM
All ages
$10/person
Snowbirds
Mill Mountain Discovery Center
10 AM - 11:30 AM
Ages 5-12
$6/Child
Registration required www.playroanoke.com
Wednesday • November 18
Ragtime The Musical
Berglund Civic Center
7:30 PM
All ages
Tickets start at $32
$5/parking
Essential Oils and You: Using Oils for specific health treatment to restore balance & health
Centers of Light & Good Karma 7760 Williamson Road
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Join us for this special presentation of Oola by Young Living. The OolaGuys, have identified seven key areas that people want to balance and grow to live a rich and fulfilled life. They are: Fitness, Finance, Family, Field (career), Faith, Friends, and Fun. Engage all five senses as you transform and improve your life with the new, proprietary INFUSED line to find the balance and fulfillment you are looking for in every area of your life.
Saturday • November 21
Essential Oils and You: Using Your Aromatherapy Kit for Health & Wellness
Centers of Light & Good Karma 7760 Williamson Road 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Join us for this special presentation of Oola by Young Living. The OolaGuys, have identified seven key areas that people want to balance and grow to live a rich and fulfilled life. They are: Fitness, Finance, Family, Field (ca-
reer), Faith, Friends, and Fun. Engage all five senses as you transform and improve your life with the new, proprietary INFUSED line to find the balance and fulfillment you are looking for in every area of your life.
Sunday • November 22
Golden Dragon Acrobats
Jefferson Center, Roanoke
2 PM
All ages
Tickets start at $24
$5/ages 12 & under
Monday • November 24
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis
Berglund Civic Center
7:30 PM
All Ages
Tickets start at $57
$5/parking
Thursday • November 26
Thursday • December 3
Vinton Christmas Parade & Festival Vinton Municipal Building
6 PM - 9:45 PM
All ages Free
Friday • December 4
Salem Christmas Tree Lighting Salem Farmer’s Market
6 PM
All ages Free
Union Drumstick Dash 5K Williamson Road, Roanoke
9 AM
All Ages
$10-$30/person www.drumstickdash.net
Saturday • December 5
Ye Olde Salem Christmas & Gingerbread Festival
Downtown Salem
11 AM- 4 PM
All ages Free
