Happy Halloween!
leading off: publisher’s note
My mom, Cindy Barone, passed away on September 28th.
She battled various ailments for over 2 years. She had so many health issues starting with diabetes from the time I was 3. She was worn out, tired and her body was broken.
We really don’t have many pictures of her - but this one sticks out. It was taken on the banks of the Mississippi River on the day she first met her granddaughter Anika. I think it was the happiest she ever was. She never traveled at all - but boarded a plane to meet her granddaughter - she was ecstatic.
Our daughters got to say good bye to her yesterday before She died peacefully with me, My wife Andrea and her sister, Linda by her side.
Take care of yourselves. Manage your diabetes -if you have it - and DONT SMOKE.
Be safe everyone.
The Eagan Family
Andrea, Josh, Anika and Evelyn
Proud Members of the Parenting Media Association since 2013! Learn more at www.parentmedia.org.
Contact Us: P.O. Box 4484, Roanoke, VA 24015 540-251-1660 www.roanoke.family
Publishers
Josh & Andrea Eagan
josh@virginiafamily.com • Anika and Evelyn’s Parents
Creative Director
Tracy Fisher tracy@virginiafamily.com
• Charlotte and Evelyn’s Mom
Community Relations Director
Jeanne Lawrence jeanne@virginiafamily.com • Parker and Connor’s Mom
Editor
Jacqueline Moon
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Ani & Evie Eagan
sales@virginiafamily.com • Bauer and Chloe’s Owners
Webmaster
Contributors
Cristy Carr • Gene Marano • Sandi Schwartz Tani Haas • Rebecca Hastings Rachel Levine • Jacqueline Moon
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Roanoke Valley Family and www.roanoke.family are published by MoFat Publishing. Roanoke Valley Family is published monthly. The views and the opinions expressed by the writers and advertisers do not necessarily represent those of Roanoke Valley Family, its staff, or its contributors. While multiple businesses, schools, and organizations are represented in our pages, and magazines are often distributed to students according to the policies and procedures of each school district, this is not a publication coordinated or endorsed by any public or private school district, nor is it a publication with any religious or political objectives. As a mass media outlet, it is our oath and responsibility to communicate with due diligence, through our content, the plurality of views and opinions reflected in our audience of Central and Southwest Virginia. Readers are strongly encouraged to verify information with programs and businesses directly. Parents are urged to thoroughly research any decisions involving their children. Copyright 2019 by MoFat Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. All material, including artwork, advertisements, and editorials, may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher.
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My mother, Cindy Barone, meeting her Granddaughter for the first time in 2005.
on page
Read on page 18
6 Calendar of Events
Check out all of the events around the region for the month of October!
14 Teaching Your Teen to Drive Safely
October hosts National Teen Driver Safety Week. Did you know car accidents are the number one leading cause of death for teens?
24 Recipe of the Month Presented by Oliveto
Dancing Drawings
The long awaited facility opens at Tanglewood.
Read on page 27
Did you know you can make your own moving doodles without a single app, camera or technological device?! 34 Interior Color Trends
Get ready for all of the trending colors taht are about to be everywhere! See which fits your family’s taste
Monday, October 4
Feed and Read
3-5 PM|Williamson Road Branch, Roanoke
When: Monday, October 04, 2021 - 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM Where: Williamson Road Branch Library at Large Community Room Free meals for kids. For more information contact 853-2340
Ladies Night Out at Lewis Gale Medical Center
5:30-7 PM|LewisGale Medical Center, Salem
Ladies Night Out! Join us on Oct. 4 from 5:30 – 7 p.m. for a fantastic evening with fun-filled activities and valuable information about women’s health.
Grab your gal pals for an evening designed just for women.
Tuesday, October 5
Botetourt County: 250 + 1 Years of Delight 10 AM-4:30 PM|Ongoing Event | Historical Society of Western Virginia, Roanoke
On April 24, the Historical Society of Western Virginia will open “Botetourt County: 250 +1 Years of Delight,” an ambitious exhibit telling the history of Botetourt through its decorative arts from architecture to kitchenware.
Couch Trivia 7-8 PM|Roanoke
Test your trivia knowledge with others! Each month will featur e a new theme from pop-culture to history.
Some content may not be appropriate for children. Registration is limited to the first 20 partici pants.
Storytime @ Home
10-10:45 AM|Ongoing Event | Roanoke
Children’s staff from RCPL engage kids and parents in storytime! Sessions focus on introducing and practicing early literacy skills andactivities for children and caretakers.
Wednesday, October 6
Legally Blonde the Musical Ongoing Event | Elmwood Park, Roanoke
OHMIGOD YOU GUYS! Mill Mountain Theatre is excited to announce the second MainStage musical of 2021: Legally Blonde!
Legally Blonde The Musical @ MMT Ongoing Event | Mill Mountain Theatre, Roanoke
OHMIGOD YOU GUYS! Mill Mountain Theatre is excited to announce the second MainStage musical of 2021: Legally Blonde!
Zoom Storytime 10-10:30 AM|Salem Public Library, Salem
“Attend” storytime from the comfort of your own home! Recommended for ages 0-5. Older siblings are welcome to watch, too! Can’t make it to the live event? We’ll send you a link so you can watch the recorded version later!
Thursday, October 7
Downtown Putt Around 4-5 PM|Ongoing Event | Century Plaza, Roanoke
Drama Club 5-6 PM|Roanoke
Come hang out, learn theater concepts, and work on a fun acting project for teens. Register online. http://www.roanokecountyva. gov/calendar.aspx?EID=16758
Flavors of Fall Fishburn Mansion, Roanoke
Discover techniques for cooking seasonal dishes using fresh fall produce. Participants will learn how to incorporate these vegetables into easy to make, healthy, and hearty dishes.
Party in Elmwood 5:30-8:30 PM|Ongoing Event | Elmwood Park, Roanoke
After canceling our 2020 season of Party in Elmwood, we are excited to announce Party in Elmwood will return for 2021 bringing 22 weeks of outdoor, live music to Elmwood Park. http://www.roanokeva.gov/calendar. aspx?EID=6139
StoryTime Detectives 10:30-11:30 AM|Ongoing Event | Roanoke
Using stories, interactive songs, and fingerplays, library staff will apply techniques caregivers can implement at home to promote early literacy skills, cognitive development, and motor development.
Vinton Book Club 3-4 PM|Vinton Library, Vinton
Give us a call to hear about this month’s book!
Please note that all in-person programming is subject to change.
Friday, October 8
Pink Floyd Tribute: US and Floyd 6-10 PM|Dr Pepper Park at the Bridges, Roanoke
SHOW SCHEDULE: (Subject to change without notice) Dr Pepper Park Shuttle sponsored by Downtown Roanoke, Inc. service begins from the Carilion Riverwalk Parking Garage at 5:45pm. Final pick up is 10:05pm.
Saturday, October 9
Family Fun Day! Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
10 AM-12 PM|Taubman Museum, Roanoke
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with Dance Espanol presented by Pedro Szalay of Southwest VA Ballet
Join us October 9 for Family Fun Day from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.!
Lauren Daigle
7:30 PM|Berglund Center, Roanoke
Leaf Press (Ages 3+)
1-3 PM|Explore Park, Roanoke
Go for a hike, collect beautiful leaves, learn about trees a nd make your own leaf press. Discover why some leaves change colors, and why all trees don’t lose their leaves in Fall.
‘Not Your Basic Witch’ Beginner’s Cookie Class
10:30 AM-12:30 PM|Elmwood Park, Roanoke
Have you ever wanted to create beautiful Pinterest-worthy sugar cookies with royal icing? Come join me for a two-hour class where you’ll watch me perform a live demonstration of all the skills you need to be a successful decorator at home.
Storybook Science
11 AM-12 PM|Science Museum of Western Virginia, Roanoke
Sunday, October 10
Rustic Wooden Pumpkins Fishburn Mansion, Roanoke
Create your own handmade rustic wooden pumpkins. Once complete, these pumpkins
can be used indoors or outdoors to add some seasonal charm to your home. All supplies are included in the registration fee. Instructed by Let’s Party Creatively.
Tuesday, October 12
Mustard Magic: Eight Recipes to Transform Your Pantry
2 PM|Gainsboro Branch, Roanoke
We’re making mustard in flavors that will elevate your sandwiches, salads, appetizers, main dishes, snacks and more. There are some quick supermarket cheats and an artisan house made version.
Friday, October 15
38 Special at Dr Pepper Park 6-10 PM|Dr Pepper Park at the Bridges, Roanoke
Presented by Delta Dental!
Tickets can be purchased at www.DrPepperPark.com. You can also purchase them at the Bank of Botetourt Box Office on site the night of the concert. We accept cash or credit cards.
Anthem Go Outside Festival 6-5 PM|Ongoing Event | Roanoke
The Anthem GO Outside Festival (GO Fest) is a free annual event that encourages healthy outdoor recreation.
BRAAC Golf Classic 2021
8 AM-6 PM|Hanging Rock Golf Club, Salem
Friday, October 15, 2021 Two Flights – 8am & 1:30pm ~ Captain’s Choice Tournament ~ Team Prizes ~ Online Auction going on all day (more info to come!) ~ Course Contests Each Golfer receives: - Green Fee with Cart
- Exclusive Golfer Gift donated
Strongman Corporation National Championships
8:30 AM-5:30 PM|Salem Stadium, Salem
Welcome to the 2021 Strongman Corporation National Championships! Event hours are 8:30am-5:30pm Friday, October 15, 2021 and Saturday, October 16, 2021. You can purchase a single day ...
Saturday, October 16
Breakfast with the Animals
8:30-10:30 AM|Mill Mountain Zoo, Roanoke
Join us at the Mill Mountain Zoo every 3rd Saturday, May-October for a unique opportunity to have breakfast with the animals. Guests will be treated to a light breakfast buffet and a chance to meet one of the zoo’s education outreach animals.
Dylan Dent
8-10:30 PM|Elmwood Park, Roanoke
Dylan Dent is a 26 year-old songwriter, rapper, producer, and multi-instrumentalist. His music spreads across various genres, but it can be boiled down to hip-hop/rap and indie pop.
Maestro Wiley & Friends
7:30-9 PM|Ongoing Event | Shaftman Performance Hall, Roanoke
Tickets on sale August 23! Celebrating 25 years: David Stewart Wiley and Friends: “From Baroque to Billy Joel”.
Tuesday, October 19
SPAYghetti
11 AM-7:30 PM|Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, Roanoke
The Roanoke Valley SPCA is back with our 15th Anniversary SPAYghetti Lunch and Supper! Every six meals sold covers the cost of spaying/neutering an adoptable cat or dog at the Roanoke Valley SPCA.
Wednesday, October 20
Fall Colors Kayak Excursion
4-6 PM|Carvins Cove Natural Reserve, Roanoke
(18+,10+ with adult) Join us for a Fall Colors tour of Carvins Cove. Kayaking is a great way to explore and experience the cove and take in the vibrant reds, oranges and yellows of the surrounding mountains.
Thursday, October 21
Blackwater Creek Trail System Bike Tour
8 AM-5 PM|PLAY Roanoke, Roanoke
(18+, 15+ with adult) Come explore Lynchburg’s expansive trail system, and enjoy the early fall weather on this approximately 16 mile bike ride.
Halloween Paint Party Jr - 2021 Fishburn Mansion, Roanoke
(12 and under) Get in the spirit for the spooky season with a special Halloween paint class! Parents or guardians won’t be left out of the fun; they can also register to participate alongside their child.
Night Howls
5:30-7 PM|Mill Mountain Zoo, Roanoke
Bundle up and bring your friends to the zoo to hear the wolves howl, the owls hoot and the big cats call! Participants will begin the night indoors enjoying hot cider and cookies while learning about nocturnal animals and the noises they make.
Teen Takeout Book Club
5-6:30 PM|Roanoke
It’s a book club with a bonus! Each participant will get a spe cialized bag with library books, snacks, activities, and goodies to ke ep. Library books selected are middle & high school reading levels.
Town Mountain
7:30 PM|Elmwood Park, Roanoke
They’re a Bluegrass ensemble with a rock ‘n roll heart ready to get you up and honky tonkin’ like your mama taught you!
Friday, October 22
A Halloween VIRTUAL Murder Mystery 8-10:30 PM|Virtual, Roanoke
Join Jump into Mystery on Friday 10/22/21 at 8pm EDT for a virtual murder mystery for adults! Feel free to wear your favorite Halloween costume, as our murder will take place at a Halloween party. Whodunnit?
Adam Calvert Ongoing Event | Elmwood Park, Roanoke
Jefferson Center Presents: Gipsy Kings 8 PM|Elmwood Park, Roanoke
For over twenty-five years, Gipsy Kings have captured the world’s imagination with their blend of traditional flamenco styles and Western pop rhythms.
Kazim Shrine Circus
7:30 PM|Ongoing Event | The Salem Civic Center, Salem Motley Crue & Def Leppard Tributes 6-10 PM|Elmwood Park, Roanoke
ALL SHOWS ARE RAIN OR SHINE Schedule subject to change without notice Gates
Open at 6:00 pm Shuttle service begins from the Carilion Riverwalk Parking Garage at 5:45 pm. The Bank of Botetourt box office opens on-site at 6pm.
Saturday, October 23
2021 Roanoke Regional Heart Walk 8 AM-12 PM|Rivers Edge Park South, Roanoke
The Heart Walk is back, and you won’t want to miss it!
Blister in The Spot: Allan & Lynwood perform the Violent Femmes 8-10:30 PM|Elmwood Park, Roanoke
Due to most music venues closing during the pandemic, Allan and Lynwood got together around bonfires and campsites to keep the music alive.
Owls! (Ages 3+) 1-3 PM|Explore Park, Roanoke
Come to the Explore Park and learn some interesting facts abou t these fascinating and somewhat mysterious birds of prey. Find out which owls live in Roanoke County and how to identify them by sight and sound.
Sunday, October 24
Dr Pepper Day 12-3 PM|Elmwood Park, Roanoke
10-24 is officially Dr Pepper Day in Roanoke! We’ll be hosting a FREE event on Thursday, October 24th in Market Square, Downtown Roanoke from 12 pm - 3 pm with free products, free t-shirts, and other goodies while supplies last!
Monday, October 25
Pine Creek Gorge Hiking and BIking 7 AM-7 PM|Ongoing Event | PLAY Roanoke, Roanoke
(18+, 15+ with adult) Enjoy vibrant fall colors in the Grand Canyon of the East. Travel to north central Pennsylvania to explore Pine Creek Gorge, known as the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, by foot and bike.
Tuesday, October 26
Quick Reads Book Club Roanoke
Are you a busy person who doesn’t have a lot of time for reading? Join us for a virtual book club via Zoom featuring short books you can read in a hurry! Sign up on our website to receive a Zoom link.
Thursday, October 28
A Hocus Pocus Halloween Fishburn Mansion, Roanoke
Join us for a spooktacular evening outdoors on the grounds of Fishburn Mansion, where we’ll feature the classic movie Hocus Pocus!
Before the film starts, enjoy yard games and walk around the mysterious mansion.
Friday, October 29
Every Breath You Take: The Music of Sting & The Police
7:30 PM|The Salem Civic Center, Salem
Sale Dates and Times: Public Onsale : Mon, 23 Aug 2021 at 10:00 AM
Harvest Blaque presents Bump In The Night 8-10:30 PM|Elmwood Park, Roanoke
Harvest Blaque is an actor, slam poet and hip-hop performer. He is the host/curator of the bi-weekly poetry show Soul Sessions. For 6 years Soul Sessions has been the peaceful, creative hub for all walks of life.
Music of the Crooners
7:30-9 PM|Ongoing Event | Elmwood Park, Roanoke
Remember some of the most celebrated entertainers of our time at our Music of the Crooners concert. Sit back and enjoy tunes originated by the velvety voices of singers like Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Tony Ben-
nett, and more.
Roanoke Symphony Orchestra: Every Breath You Take 7:30 PM|Salem Stadium, Salem
Roanoke Symphony Orchestra presents Every Breath You Take: Music of Sting & The Police
Saturday October 30
Dead Reckoning Halloween: Spirit Animals Elmwood Park, Roanoke
Get ready to throw down at our annual Halloween Costume Party featuring only the best tricks and treats from The Dead Reckoning - purveyors of Grateful Dead delights.
Dracula
2-4 PM|Ongoing Event | Jefferson Center, Roanoke
This contemporary dance performance, choreographed by Norbert Nirewicz, holds the audience at the edge of their seats with a visually riveting interpretation of the classic novel by Bram Stoker.
Fall Scavenger Hunt (Ages 3+) 1-3 PM|Explore Park, Roanoke
Take a nature hike, follow clues and discover some of the won ders of Fall. Learn about wild animals, plants, and seasonal changes. This is a great family activity for getting outdoors, using your senses\ , and observing nature.
Halloween Throwdown at The Spot On Kirk: Fractured Frames / Divisive / Heirloom 8-10:30 PM|Elmwood Park, Roanoke
Maiden & Crow Tattoo Presents: Halloween Throwdown 2021 Featuring Performances by: Fractured Frames Divisive Heirloom Tattoo Raffle! PMU Raffle! Costume Contest! $10 for Entry Doors at 7:30 | Show at 8pm
Market Square Block Party
6 PM|Market Square Park, Roanoke
A downtown block party taking place in Market Square Park, pu t on by 202 Social House. http://www.roanokeva.gov/calendar.aspx?EID=6218
Sara Kosuth
2-4 PM|Ongoing Event | Jefferson Center, Roanoke
This contemporary dance performance, choreographed by Norbert Nirewicz, holds the audience at the edge of their seats with a visually riveting interpretation of the classic novel by Bram Stoker.
Zoo Boo 11 AM-4 PM|Mill Mountain Zoo, Roanoke
Are you looking for a great, safe place to bring your family for some howling Halloween fun? From trick-or-treating, to costume contests, to performances and “spooktacular” art activities, Zoo Boo is a fun-filled day for the whole family!
Teaching Your Teen How To Drive Safely
Tanni Haas, Ph.D.
Parents often like to supplement their teens’ official driving lessons with their own lessons behind the wheel, and that’s a great idea. Studies show that teens who receive additional driving instruction from their parents have fewer accidents than teens who don’t get any extra help. What can parents do to ensure that their teens get the most out of their time together in the car? Here’s what the experts say:
Let Them Take The Lead
Once you’ve told your teens that you’re willing to give them driving lessons, back off a bit and don’t push the issue. “If your teen isn’t driving you crazy about teaching her to drive,” says Carleton Kendrick, a family therapist who works with teens, “she’s probably too nervous to begin the process.” Wait patiently until they’re ready for your help. As Wayne Parker, a certified life coach and author of Power Dads, puts it, “an overly anxious teen driver can be a dangerous thing.”
Give Them Advance Warning
Give them some advance warning when you’re ready for the first lesson. Talk with them about, as Mr. Parker puts it, “where you’re going and what you’re going to do.” Teens don’t like surprises, especially from their parents. Get together to plan the route and the skills you’ll be working. It’ll put you on a more equal footing.
Treat Them Like Adults
“An overly anxious teen driver can be a dangerous thing.”
Teens like to be treated as adults. That includes when they’re learning how to drive. Ms. Kendrick says that parents should avoid talking down to their teens, making any negative comments, or treating them like little children. She suggests that parents “praise specific progress and improvement, while offering non-judgmental, optimistic, and encouraging words.” The goal is to make your teens more aware drivers, not to make them feel shamed or judged.
Talk Before You Get Into The Car
Even when your teens say they’re ready to learn how to drive, it’s likely that they’ve heard horror stories in the news or from their friends that are making them scared. Nicole Runyon, a social worker who deals with teens, suggests that parents “create a calm and peaceful space for them to talk.” Try to alleviate any fears by listening carefully and reassuring them that you’ll support and help them become competent and safe drivers.
Another way to guide your teens is to ask them questions instead of giving commands. Instead of saying slow down or “you’re going to get a speeding ticket,” Mr. Parker suggests asking “what’s the speed limit here?” Studies show that teens whose parents ask questions rather than make critical statements get into fewer accidents.
Put Yourself In Their Shoes
Studies also show that many parents focus their instruction more on skills that they had difficulty mastering when they themselves learned how to drive than on the skills that best prevent teen accidents. Instead of spending
much of your time teaching your teens how to parallel park (a maneuver that can make many parents break into a sweat), focus on skills like how to safely merge on and off highways, which is in fact a major source of teen accidents.
Stay Calm
It can be stressful teaching your teens how to drive, but don’t show it. Ms. Kendrick encourages parents to hand over the reins to someone else if they can’t keep their “anxiety in check and it’s turning the teaching experience into a tension-filled meltdown zone.” Try to stay calm, even if your teens are creating the tension in the car. “Just role with it,” says Dr. Corinne Peek-Asa, a professor of public health and expert on vehicle injury prevention. Studies show that when the atmosphere is tense, parents offer less constructive feedback and even less feedback that’s focused on safety.
Be A Good Role Model
All kids, including teens, learn more from what they watch their parents do than from anything parents tell them. Be a good role model and drive safely when you’re in the driver’s seat and your teens are the passengers. Jen Stockburger, director of operations at Consumer Report’s Auto Test Center, puts it well: “The example you set for them behind the wheel may be the most important in terms of actually keeping them safe, more so than any other safety message you’ve given them in their entire life.”
Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences & Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College.
National Teen Driver Safety Week is October 17-23, 2021
Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens (15-18 years old) in the United States, ahead of all other types of injury, disease, or violence. In 2017, there were 2,247 people killed in crashes involving a teen driver, of which 755 deaths were the teen driver - a 3% decrease from 2016. Parents can be the biggest influencers on teens’ choices behind the wheel if they take the time to talk with their teens about some of the biggest driving risks.
Kids Eat Free
or cheap
Every Day
• 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
IHop
4PM-10PM • 12 & Under All Locations
• Shoney’s All Day • 4 & under, free kids meal with adult entree purchase. Drink not included 2673 Lee Highway, Troutville (540) 992-6400
Monday
• Famous Anthony’s 3 PM - Close • 1 child per paid adult All Locations in Roanoke, Salem, & Vinton (540) 362-1400
• Buffalo Wild Wings
4 PM - 9 PM • 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult All Locations (540) 725-9464
• El Rio Mexican Grill
All Day • 10 & under, 1 child per paid adult 4208 Electric Rd., Roanoke (540) 6854343
• Firehouse Subs
All Day • 11 & under, 2 children per paid adult combo,dine in Blacksburg (540) 961-0371
• The Green Goat All Day • 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult 802 Wiley Dr. SW, Roanoke (540) 904-6091
Tuesday
• Denny’s 4 PM - 10 PM • 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult All Locations Roanoke & Salem (540) 389-5074
• Macado’s 4 PM - 9 PM • 12 & under, $1 child meal per paid adult
All Locations in Roanoke & Salem (540) 776-9884
• McAlister’s Deli
5 PM - Close • 2 children per paid adult
2063 Colonial Ave., Roanoke (540) 204-4407
• Town Center Tap House All Day • 12 & under, 2 children per paid adult 90 Town Center St., Daleville (540) 591-9991
• Firehouse Subs All Day • 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult Colonial Ave, Town Square & Salem only (540) 345-3131
• Pizza Hut 5 PM - Close • 10 & under, free buffet per paid adult 1016 Hershberger Rd., Roanoke (540) 362-3834
• K&W All Day • 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult Hershberger Rd. Roanoke (540) 563-4977
Wednesday
• Dogwood
4 PM - Close • 10 & under, per paid adult
106 E. Lee Ave., Vinton (540) 343-6549
Thursday
• The Roanoker
4:30 PM - Close • 10 & under, 2 children per paid adult
2522 Colonial Ave., Roanoke (540) 344-7746
• Jerry’s Family Restaurant
4 PM - Close • 6 & under, 1 child per adult meal purchase 1340 E. Washington Ave., Vinton (540) 343-4400
Friday
See Everyday Deals!
Saturday
• Famous Anthony’s
12 PM - Close • 1 child per adult meal
All Locations Roanoke, Salem, Vinton (540) 362-1400
Sunday
• Pizza Den
5 PM - 8:30 PM • 10 & under free buffet per paid adult buffet and drink purchase Salem (540) 389-1111
• Local Roots
5 PM -7 PM • 5 & under eat for free, discount for ages 5-7 per paid adult 1314 Grandin Rd., Roanoke (540) 206-2610
• T.G.I.Fridays
All Day • 12 & under 1 with paying adult 4869 Valley View Blvd., Roanoke (540) 362-1475
• Moe’s Southwestern Grill
All Day • 1 free per paid adult
All Roanoke & Blacksburg locations
• Firehouse Subs
All Day • 12 and Under 1 free per paid adult Keagy Road, Roanoke 540-204-4471
• Rodeo Grande
All Day • 12 and Under 1 free per paid adult Valley View, Roanoke 540-206-2296
• Lew’s Restaurant SW All Day • 12 and Under 2 free per paid adult Walnut Avenue, Roanoke 540-682-5925
Roanoke Valley Family Magazine publishes these deals for informational purposes only. A Listing here does not guarantee a discount at any of the mentioned restaurants. Promotions often change without notice and we recommend calling the restaurant to confirm any discount before arrival.
My Teens Have It Better Than
I Did in the 80s
By Cheryl Maguire
“I’m so jealous of you!”
That was me speaking, not my teen. We signed up for a music subscription service and within minutes she had all the latest hits on her iPhone playlist. I was in awe but also jealous of her easy access to music. As a teen growing up in the 80s, I would have loved to have the ability to listen to a song of my choosing within seconds. Even though technology can have its downfalls, I’m envious of all the ways my teen will have it better than I did growing up.
Music
Me in the 80s: I loved all types of music. One of my favorite things to do was create a mixtape. Using my dual cassette Boombox, I recorded a mix of songs onto a cassette tape to later play on my yellow waterproof Sony Walkman player. Sometimes it would take over a week just to make one mixtape.
If I didn’t own the album I waited for the song to come on the radio and record it onto the cassette tape which often had a little bit of the DJ introducing the song or the song cut off in the end. If I wanted to change a song, I would have to rewind the tape and record over it which would really only work for the last song since you would end up recording over other songs. Mostly you are stuck with it.
As you can see it was a cumbersome, elaborate process that by the time you were done making a mixtape you were sick of most of the songs and ready to make another one.
My Teen Now: Within in seconds she downloads twenty songs onto a playlist to her phone which she can bring with her anywhere. If she becomes tired of a song, clicking delete will eliminate it instantly or she can hit next to forward to the next song without waiting for the tape to move along or without trying to figure out how long to fast forward until the song is over.
Writing Research Reports
Me in the 80s: Thumbing through the library card catalog, I found a book related to my research paper. I then searched through the library for it and check it out. Usually, I needed at least three or four books which meant repeating the process. I then had to handwrite the paper (we didn’t have a typewriter or word processor which I didn’t use until college) and used my mother as a spell checker since I was horrible at spelling.
My Teen Now: A quick Google search reveals over a hundred different links related to her research topic. She then types up her paper in a Google Doc using spell check although unlike her mother (more like her grandmother) she is an incredible speller and doesn’t even need it.
Making a Phone Call
Me in the 80s: After I finished shopping at the mall with my friends I needed to find a payphone (along with a quarter) to ask my mom to pick us up. She gabbed away for over three minutes which required me to feed the payphone another quarter since she went over the time limit. I thought to myself I should have used the collect call trick—when they ask for my name I would say, “Pickup Mall.”
My Teen Now: Everyone in the house has their own phone line and can easily make unlimited phone calls (or Facetime) anywhere in the USA without paying additional fees. Although she hardly ever makes “real” phone calls— she mostly uses text messages or social media. I doubt she has ever heard a “busy single” or understands how great it was when “call waiting” was introduced (she probably doesn’t even know what that is either).
Taking a Picture
Me in the 80s: I loved taking pictures, but similar to the mixtapes it involved many steps. You had to buy film, use it up by taking 24 pictures and develop it by bringing it to the store which could sometimes take a week. It also could add up costing a lot of money buying the film and developing it.
My Teen Now: She snaps pictures of her friends, her sister or the wall without costing anything and gets to see it instantly.
“Even though technology can have its downfalls, I’m envious of all the ways my teen will have it better than I did growing up.”
The next time your teen says, “I’m bored,” you can wow them with your stories about how you created mixtapes, needed a payphone to call home or used a library card catalog. I recently did this with my niece who said, “I know and you didn’t even have electricity!” which made me laugh since she really thought that was true.
My Teen Now: She sends a quick text from her phone, “Please pick me up now,” without needing any quarters or searching for a payphone or using the collect call trick.
Communicating with Friends
Me in the 80s: One phone in the house and me, my two sisters and my mom was not a good combination since we always seemed to want to use it at the same time. If you wanted to make a phone call outside of our town, you would be charged per minute.
If nothing else it will ensure you don’t hear the phrase “I’m bored,” ever again.
Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, Parents Magazine, Upworthy, Chicken Soup for the Soul: Count Your Blessing and Your Teen Magazine. You can find her at Twitter @CherylMaguire05
Spooky Safe and Halloween
Halloween Safety During a Pandemic
Hosting a Halloween Celebration
If you will be hosting a celebration, follow these CDC tips for hosting gatherings. Below are some additional considerations for hosting a holiday celebration:
• Host outdoor activities rather than indoor activities as much as possible. If hosting an outdoor event is not possible, and you choose to host an indoor event, avoid crowded, poorly ventilated, or fully enclosed indoor spaces.
• Increase ventilation by opening windows and doors to the extent that is safe and feasible based on the weather.
• Host activities with only people from your local area as much as possible.
• Limit numbers of attendees as much as possible.
• Provide updated information to your guests about any COVID-19 safety guidelines and steps in place to prevent the spread of the virus.
• Provide or encourage attendees to bring supplies to help you and others stay healthy. For example, extra masks (do not share or swap with others), hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, and tissues.
• If you are planning in-person holiday gatherings with people outside of your household, consider asking all guests to
strictly avoid contact with people outside of their households for 14 days before the gathering.
Attending a Halloween Celebration
If you will be attending a celebration that someone else is hosting, follow CDC Considerations for attending an event or gathering. Below are some additional considerations for attending an in-person holiday gathering:
• Outdoor activities are safer than indoor activities. If participating in an outdoor event is not possible, and you choose to attend an indoor event, avoid crowded, poorly ventilated, and fully enclosed indoor spaces. Increase ventilation by opening windows and doors to the extent that is safe and feasible based on the weather.
• Check with the event host, organizer, or event venue for updated information about any COVID-19 safety guidelines and if they have steps in place to prevent the spread of the virus.
• Bring supplies to help you and others stay healthy. For example, bring extra masks (do not share or swap with others), hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, and tissues.
• If you are planning to attend in-person holiday gatherings with people outside of your household, consider strictly avoiding contact with people outside of your
household for 14 days before the gathering.
During the celebration
Follow these tips to reduce your risk of being exposed to, getting, or spreading COVID-19 during the celebration:
• Social distance and limit close contact
• Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet or more from people you don’t live with. Be particularly mindful in areas where it may harder to keep this distance, such as restrooms and eating areas.
• Avoid using restroom facilities at high traffic times, such as at the end of a public event.
• Avoid busy eating areas, such as restaurants during high volume mealtimes, if you plan to eat out at a restaurant.
• Minimize gestures that promote close contact. For example, do not shake hands, elbow bump, or give hugs. Instead wave and verbally greet others.
• Wear a mask at all times when around people who don’t live in your household to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
• Avoid singing, chanting, or shouting, especially when not wearing a mask and within 6 feet of others.
• Do not use a costume mask as a substitute
for a cloth mask unless it is made of two or more layers of breathable fabric that covers your mouth and nose and doesn’t leave gaps around your face.
• Do not wear a costume mask over a cloth mask because it can be dangerous if the costume mask makes it hard to breathe. Instead, consider using a Halloween-themed cloth mask.
• Limit contact with commonly touched surfaces or shared items
• Clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces and any shared items between use when feasible. Use EPA-approved disinfectants.
• Use touchless garbage cans if available.
• Use gloves when removing garbage bags or handling and disposing of trash. Wash hands after removing gloves.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
Keep safe around food and drinks
Currently, there is no evidence to suggest that handling food or eating is associated with directly spreading COVID-19. It is possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object, including food, food packaging, or utensils that have the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes. However, this is not thought to be the main way that the virus is spread. Remember, it is always important to follow good hygiene to reduce the risk of illness from common foodborne germs.
• Make sure everyone washes their hands with soap and water for 20 seconds before and after preparing, serving, and eating food.
• Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• Instead of potluck-style gatherings, encourage guests to bring food and drinks for themselves and for members of their own household only.
• Limit people going in and out of the areas where food is being prepared or handled,
such as in the kitchen or around the grill, if possible.
• Wear a mask while preparing or serving food to others who don’t live in your household.
• If serving any food, consider having one person serve all the food so that multiple people are not handling the serving utensils.
• Use single-use options or identify one person to serve sharable items, like salad dressings, food containers, plates and utensils, and condiments.
• Avoid any self-serve food or drink options, such as buffets or buffet-style potlucks, salad bars, and condiment or drink stations.
• Use grab-and-go meal options, if available.
• If you choose to use any items that are reusable (e.g., seating covers, tablecloths, linen napkins), wash and disinfect them after the event.
Lower Risk Halloween Activities
• Carving or decorating pumpkins with members of your household and displaying them
• Carving or decorating pumpkins outside, at a safe distance, with neighbors or friends
• Decorating your house, apartment, or living space
• Doing a Halloween scavenger hunt where children are given lists of Halloweenthemed things to look for while they walk outdoors from house to house admiring Halloween decorations at a distance
• Having a virtual Halloween costume contest
• Having a Halloween movie night with people you live with
• Having a scavenger hunt-style trick-ortreat search with your household members in or around your home rather than going house to house
Moderate Risk Halloween Activities
• Participating in one-way trick-or-treating where individually wrapped goodie bags are lined up for families to grab and go while continuing to social distance (such as at the end of a driveway or at the edge of a yard)
• If you are preparing goodie bags, wash
your hands with soap and water for at least 20 second before and after preparing the bags.
• Having a small group, outdoor, open-air costume parade where people are distanced more than 6 feet apart
• Attending a costume party held outdoors where protective masks are used and people can remain more than 6 feet apart
• A costume mask (such as for Halloween) is not a substitute for a cloth mask. A costume mask should not be used unless it is made of two or more layers of breathable fabric that covers the mouth and nose and doesn’t leave gaps around the face.
• Going to an open-air, one-way, walkthrough haunted forest where appropriate mask use is enforced, and people can remain more than 6 feet apart
• If screaming will likely occur, greater distancing is advised. The greater the distance, the lower the risk of spreading a respiratory virus.
• Visiting pumpkin patches or orchards where people use hand sanitizer before touching pumpkins or picking apples, wearing masks is encouraged or enforced, and people are able to maintain social distancing
• Having an outdoor Halloween movie night with local family friends with people spaced at least 6 feet apart
Higher Risk Halloween Activities
• Participating in traditional trick-ortreating where treats are handed to children who go door to door
• Having trunk-or-treat where treats are handed out from trunks of cars lined up in large parking lots
• Attending crowded costume parties held indoors
• Going to an indoor haunted house where people may be crowded together and screaming
• Going on hayrides or tractor rides with people who are not in your household Using alcohol or drugs, which can cloud judgement and increase risky behaviors
• Traveling to a rural fall festival that is not in your community if you live in an area with community spread of COVID-19
The Opening of Carilion Children’s
Tanglewood Center
It’s almost time! Over the next few weeks, individual Carilion Children’s practices are making the move into the new Carilion Children’s - Tanglewood Center. Carilion Clinic adult and pediatric ENT/Audiology and Dentistry will move adjacent spaces in Tanglewood as well. The facility will be fully operational for all Carilion Children’s patients starting Oct. 4.
“For several years, Carilion Children’s has expanded specialized pediatric services for our community, and we’re excited to finally have a new home for our specialties all under one roof,” said Dr. Donald Kees, interim chair of Pediatrics for Carilion. “This facility will be a destination for expert pediatric care for families in our region and beyond.”
The range of practices moving into 150,000-square-foot space include:
General Pediatrics
Adolescent Medicine
Pediatric Behavioral Health
Pediatric Cardiology
Pediatric Child Development
Pediatric and Adult Dentistry
Pediatric Endocrinology
Pediatric and Adult ENT
Pediatric Gastroenterology
Pediatric Genetics
Pediatric Neurology
Pediatric Neurosurgery (satellite location)
Pediatric Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
(satellite location)
Pediatric Pulmonology
Pediatric Surgery
Pediatric Therapies
Services will include:
Certified Child Life Specialists
Full-service lab
Imaging services
The physical space – which formerly housed a JC Penney – also incorporates several green initiatives including low flow plumbing fixtures, LED motion activated lighting, and expanded recycling initiatives.
“There is a real-time transformation taking place at Tanglewood,” said Jill Loope, director of Roanoke County Department of Economic Development. “Carilion’s decision to revitalize vacant space and create a pediatric hub has contributed to a flurry of investment and excitement around Tanglewood and the larger Roanoke County commercial corridor. We look forward to welcoming Carilion providers and patients to the area this October.”
As part of Tanglewood Mall, the Carilion Children’s - Tanglewood Center provides easy access and plenty of parking, making it easier for families who have multiple appointments. Families will also have access to additional lab and imaging services on-site, allowing for a convenient, one-stop-shop experience with area stores, entertainment, and restaurants right next door.
Carilion general pediatrics patients will also be able to schedule evening (5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday) and weekend appointments (8 a.m. to noon on both Saturday and Sunday) at the Tanglewood Center, which is an expanded service offering.
“This facility will not only act as a resource for families in our region, but also as a clinical hub bringing individuals to our area for the first time,” said John Hull, executive director of the Roanoke Regional Partnership. “This helps set our region apart, both as a resource for expert medical services and as a place to work, attracting talent and business to the area.”
Dear Teacher
By Peggy Gisler and Marge
Attending Conferences Is a Must This Year
Parents: Hopefully, you were able to attend Back to School night at the start of the school year. You should have learned exactly how your children’s teachers are going to go about making up any learning deficiencies that may have occurred during the Pandemic. Soon you should be receiving information about upcoming Parent/Teacher Conferences. This year these conferences could return to in-person ones or remain virtual. It makes no difference as you must attend to find out some specific information from the teacher. You need to know exactly where your child is academically after the many disruptions that may have occurred to their learning since March 2020.
While you participate in a conference, be sure to keep the focus on your child. It is very important to avoid lengthy discussions of subjects not related to the purpose of the conference. And be sure to make it clear to teachers that you want to work with them to help your child succeed in school,
You should expect the teacher to give you the answer to these questions: Is my child performing at, above, or below the expected grade level in all of his or her classes? Does my child need special help in any academic subject? What help will be given? How can we help at home? When will my child take state standardized tests this year to evaluate his or her progress in school?
How would you describe my child’s work habits? Does he or she regularly complete homework and classwork?
What goals are appropriate for my child this year?
Above are the questions you need answers to before your conference time expires. If there is time, it would be helpful for you to also get answers to these questions: How well does my child get along with his
or her classmates and teachers? Are there any discipline problems? How can they be improved or eliminated? Can we look over some of my child’s work together? I would like to see specific areas where my child needs improvements or excels.
Before the conference you should definitely talk to your child. You need to hear first-hand exactly what he or she thinks about how the school year is going so far. Your child might give you specific issues that should be discussed with the teacher. Another key step is to make sure that you have looked over your child’s work, the quality of the work should not be a surprise to you. And you certainly should be aware of whether your child’s grades have improved, gone down or remained the same since last year. As part of your conference preparation, jot down anything that you want to talk over with the teacher from too much homework being assigned to your child’s difficulties with story problems. Try to limit your list to items that are vital to your child’s success in school.
At the end of the conference be sure that you and the teacher sum up together any decisions that have been made about your child. Also, remember to thank teachers for all the help that they are giving your child. If necessary, you can schedule an additional conference.
Your job is not done when the conference ends. Don’t just forget about the conference once it is over. Be sure to discuss it with your child’s other parent if he or she was not able to attend. And talk about the conference with your child. Begin by pointing out all the strengths brought out by the teacher. Then talk about the suggestions which were made for improvement. Agree with your child on a plan of action to improve any problem areas. Did the teacher suggest that your child needs a better study schedule? Did you agree to
find a tutor to help your child in certain areas. Start to carry out these plans.
Computer Work vs Paperwork in the Classroom!
Question: During the Pandemic almost all of our children’s work was done on the computer. This year at our children’s school, almost all assignments are still being done on the computer. Are there any good arguments for them to do some of their work on paper? – Paperless!
Answer: We are definitely in the digital era! And educators appear to want to get as many computers and as much work on computers as they can into classrooms. Also, many of the millennials think that computers are a superior way for their children to learn. Here are a few arguments for doing work on paper rather than computers:
Parents are more likely to help their children with homework that is done on paper.
Universities are finding out that students who write their class notes by hand retain the information better than students who take notes on their computers. This is probably true for students at all levels. Students universally admit that the biggest challenge of working online is the temptation to look at something else like Facebook updates, Instagram or photos. Also, students type at very different speeds. So, writing a timed essay may put slower typists at a disadvantage.
Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher.com and to learn more about helping their children succeed in school visit the dearteacher website.
©Compass Syndicate Corporation
Mills, DDS Travis Shannon, DDS
Michele Mills, DDS Travis Shannon, DDS
El Dia de los Muertos: Una Oportunidad de Recordar Nuestra
Cultura y Antepasados
Para los Latinx, el meses de Septiembre y Octubre son mejor conocidos como los meses de la herencia Latinx, en el cual se celebran las tradiciones, las historias, las culturas, las contribuciones y los logros de las personas Latinx-Americanos (as) con ancestros de España, México, el Caribe, Centroamérica y Sudamérica. “La semana de la herencia Latinx” se estableció en el año 1968 bajo la presidencia del Presidente Lyndon B. Johnson. En 1988 el Presidente Ronald Reagan lo extendió de una semana a un mes.
Me facina esta época del año porque me hace sentir muy afortunada de poder enseñarle a mis hijos acerca de los (las) Latinx-Americanos (as) que han llegado a ser gran parte de la historia de los Estados Unidos. En mi casa hemos estado aprendiendo acerca de Ellen Ochoa (la primera mujer Latinx astronauta), Sonia Sotomayor (la primera mujer juez Latinx en la Corte Suprema) y César Chávez (Latinx activista de los derechos civiles- que logró mejorar las condiciones para los trabajadores agrícolas). Nos encanta ir a la biblioteca y pedir prestados ciertos libros en Español sobre estos temas.
Además, estos meses son meses de fiesta. No cabe duda que para los Norteamericanos (as) el festejo tradicional de Halloween o la Noche de Brujas se celebra a lo grande. Durante este día las casas de los vecindarios abren sus puertas para regalar dulces o caramelos a niños (as) y jóvenes que se han vestido con disfraces carismáticos de sus
personajes preferidos. También, muchas iglesias locales organizan un evento llamado “trunk or treat (celebración de Halloween en el estacionamiento)” para la comunidad en el cual las familias se estacionan y reparten los dulces desde las cajuelas de su automóvil. A mi familia les encantan los “trunk or treats” porque es más fácil pedir dulces o caramelos para los niños pequeños de esta manera.
Pero también, en muchos de nuestros países latinoamericanos se celebra el Dia de los Muertos, Difuntos, Santos o Antepasados. Esta celebración tiene raíces prehispánicas y religiosas y festeja a los difuntos con ofrendas llenas de fotografías, veladoras, calaveras de azúcar, flores de cempasúchil y más. ¡Los altares son muy coloridos y extremadamente hermosos!
Para mi, el Dia de los Muertos ha sido un dia muy especial donde puedo aprender más y recordar a mis queridos antepasados, en particular
a mis abuelitos. A pesar de que se llama “el Dia de los Muertos” en realidad es un día donde celebramos la vida de nuestros antepasados, no solo su muerte. Ellos pasaron por muchos desafíos y son ejemplos de la perseverancia, bondad, y afán y podemos aprender mucho de ellos. Yo tuve la fortuna de crecer en México y claramente recuerdo la primera vez que deje un plato de mole, una coca-cola, una veladora, y flores de cempasúchil en el altar de mi abuelito paterno.
Tal vez para nuestros vecinos y amigos que no hablan Español, piensan que El Dia de los Muertos es solamente la versión Latinx de Halloween pero puede ser algo aún mucho más especial. Es un dia para recordar el amor que sentimos por nuestras familias; ambos los que ya fallecieron y los que viven. Debemos expresar gratitud por los sacrificios que han hecho para que salgamos adelante y hay que compartir esta importante herencia con nuestros hijos (as) y amigos (as). Les animo
a que, mientras que disfrutemos las fiestas de Halloween que tal vez son nuevas tradiciones para muchos de nosotros, que también busquemos la oportunidad de compartir nuestras hermosas tradiciones con los que nos rodean. A pesar de que muchos de nosotros nos sentimos lejos de casa, podemos tratar de siempre conmemorar a nuestros antepasados e inculcar un amor por nuestras costumbres en nuestros hijos (as).
¡Espero que todos tengan un feliz mes de Octubre seguro y divertido y que encuentren una forma de recordar y honrar a sus antepasados! ¡Felices fiestas!
¡Hola! Me llamo Paola y tendré el privilegio de compartir un mensaje mensual en Español con nuestros lectores. Estoy muy agradecida y emocionada por esta oportunidad. Soy originalmente de Mexicali, Baja California, México y como muchos de ustedes, tengo poco tiempo viviendo en esta hermosa ciudad de Roanoke. Para alguna pregunta o comentario favor de enviar un correo electrónico a esta dirección: paoladehart@gmail.com.
Fall Home Maintenance
Do these things before the weather turns freezing and save yourself from the future issues.
As much as we would love for warm weather to stay with us, the reality is that cold, snowy and icy days are coming. That’s why Fall is a good time to prepare your home for harsh winter conditions and the peculiar problems they bring.
Avoid a wintertime disaster by taking preventive measures now to ensure you have a safe, dry winter and holiday season.
Clean your gutters. I know, no one likes this job, but it is essential to keeping water out of places it’s not supposed to go. Summer thunderstorms and falling leaves can clog your gutters and lead to costly water damage. Your gutters are meant to direct water away from your home, and if they’re clogged with no where for the water to go - the water WILL find a way out, and sometimes that can be the last place you want to find water.
Take care of your lawn. After a long hot summer and this year - an especially dry fall - your lawn could use some love. Overseeding now, before the first frost of the year, allows the seeds to take root and get a jump on the spring growing season. Don’t forget about aeriation too - aeration creates holes down into the soil so air, water and nutrients can reach grass roots. Without aeration, lawn grasses struggle in stressful situations, such as heat and low rainfall, and lose their healthy, rich color. Grass can gradually thin and eventually die out completely.
Check Your roof. You don’t want to find out you have a roof leak when you have a roof full of melting snow. Now’s the time to give it a good once over. Examine your roof for any obvious signs of damage, such as missing or buckled shingles. Should be able to view your roof from a distance and should not need to climb all the way up. Replace loose shingles and repair damaged portions immediately to avoid more serious problems that can occur when the snow starts to accumulate and freeze and thaw cycles begin.
Furnace maintenance. You don’t want to wait until temperatures drop before being sure that your furnace is working correctly. Replace the filter and if the furnace has not been serviced in the last year, hire a professional to conduct a full tune-up.
Maintain Your Fireplace and Chimney. Check your fireplace and ensure it is working properly. Hire a professional to inspect and sweep your chimney to get rid of accumulated debris, including soot, leaves, and bird nests, this will prevent chimney fires and also dangerous gases from seeping into your home.
Check Weatherstripping. Drafty windows and doors can increase your heating and cooling bill by up to 30%. Now is the time to caulk gaps around windows, door frames, exterior pipes, and faucets and replace worn weatherstripping. Check for any larger gaps that could be an entrance point for squirrels, mice or other unwanted vermin. Use spray foam insulation to take care of those larger gaps.
A native of the area, Curtis Burchett has more than 18 years experience as full-time Realtor. He currently lives in Southwest Roanoke County with his wife and 3 children.
Rachel’s Reads
By Rachel Levine
Colored pencils, crayons, markers, scissors, and paint are essential staples of childhood. Children come into the world with an innate desire to create. As Pablo Picasso said, “Every child is an artist.” Celebrate that natural creativity by sharing these marvelous art books with your children!
Mouse Paint
by Ellen Stoll Walsh
Someone has accidentally left out a set of red, yellow, and blue paint pots. Three very curious little mice have found them and simply can’t resist climbing inside and dunking themselves in the wet paint. The now red, yellow, and blue mice soon discover they can mix the colors and create orange, green, and purple too. This gentle introduction to the color wheel is lovely.
Beautiful Oops!
By Barney Saltzberg
Making art is all about experimenting and exploring. Beautiful Oops shows how to take what appears to be a mistake and repurpose it into
something absolutely amazing. Through clever flaps and pop-ups, the book shows ways of turning a tear, spill, or other oops, into something new and incredible. It’s great for all, but especially for those kids (and adults too) who struggle with frustration when their art projects don’t turn out how they imagined.
by Bill Thomson
What would happen if your art came to life? Three friends find out when they happen upon a bag of magical chalk. They begin drawing together and suddenly their art starts rising from the pavement, vivid,
Chalk
alive, and real. The friends start exploring their new power by drawing sunshine and butterflies, but then they go a step farther and draw a Tyrannosaurus Rex. Creating a living dinosaur, as we know from Jurassic Park, is generally a very bad idea. Chaos reigns until the kids figure out how to use their art to save the day.
Dog Loves Drawing
by Louise Yates
Dog received a blank sketchbook as a gift. At first, he wasn’t sure what to do with it, but then he started doodling and a world of storytelling and adventures opened up! Dog creates new friends (duck, owl, and crab), and together they ride trains, explore the sea in boats, and find a desert island. For every problem that arises, Dog draws a creative solution. Be warned — after reading this book you should have some blank sketchbooks on hand for your newly inspired kiddos!
I Ain’t Gonna Paint No More!
By Karen Beaumont
It is time for pure absolute silliness. This goofy adaption of the song “It Ain’t Gonna Rain No More” is fabulously colorful and messy. A young boy has been forbidden to paint anymore after painting on the walls of
BECAUSE “ MORE HAPPENS HERE ”
Learn for yourself why people who send their children here say that North Cross has the BEST:
• overall educational experience for your child.
• college preparatory curriculum and services.
• Junior Kindergarten program.
• remediation program for students with diagnosed learning differences.
• COVID-19 mitigation programs.
his house. The call of the paint cannot be resisted, however, and soon he is painting his whole body from head to toe. Be prepared for “I Ain’t Gonna Paint No More!” to become a family favorite!
Crafts for Little Artists that Aren’t a Pain to Clean Up 13
I think there’s still glitter on my floor
From 5 years ago.
Arts and crafts have a way of sticking around, and while I want to encourage creativity in my kids, I hate cleaning up the aftermath.
Yes, we can make them clean up. I know. But seriously. Do they ever really clean it all up? If you’re going to be the one picking up from the latest craft session, here are 13 crafts that will make your job easier and allow your little artist to be creative.
Melissa & Doug Deluxe Combo Scratch Art Set
I love this. Still. And kids are drawn to it. Scratch through the black surface to reveal amazing colors. Reveal as much or as little as you want. This favorite comes with 16 boards, 2 stylus tools and 3 frames. Kids love the rainbow and metallic backgrounds.
Boogie Board Jot LCD eWriter
A small notebook sized LCD drawing panel, the Boogie Board Jot is perfect for drawing anywhere, even in the car. No mess and endless possibility. Kids love the erase button and the ability to
By Rebecca Hastings
start fresh. Great for keeping in your purse for kids to play with on the go.
Made By Me Build and Paint Your Own Wooden Cars
This one does involve paint, but it’s all pretty self-contained. Spread a piece of newspaper and grab a cup of water. Kids put together small wooden cars and then decorate using the stickers and paints provided. This one is great for keeping boys busy and giving them a chance to create.
Fashion Angels Portfolios & American Girl Doll Fashion Design Portfolio Set
Kids design outfits and unique looks on the doll like outlines provided. Tons of great activity books with stencils for those who love to create fun fashion looks. Makeup, fashion and even home decorating books give kids great ways to draw and imagine as they get older. Melissa & Doug Paint with Water Sometimes the little ones just want to paint. A great compromise that just involves water! Watch images and colors appear magically as your little artists swipes a wet brush across a page!
Alex Toys Craft Color a House Children’s Kit
Cardboard box play taken to the next level, kids can easily construct a house and then decorate it with crayons. Toddlers love this and it keeps them busy for hours!
Crayola Color Wonder Magic Light Brush & Drawing Pad
Half the fun of this amazing toy is the magic! Kids use the special brush to paint on their paper. It lights up with each color they pick and they create a masterpiece. Plus, it doesn’t leave marks on hands, the table or clothes!
Rainbow Wikki Stix
These bendy, twisty sticks quickly become a favorite of kids and adults. You can link them together, twist and create without making a mess to clean up. Another great toy for the traveling creative!
Sidewalk Chalk
Let nature take care of the cleanup! Kids love the ability to leave their mark and draw outdoors. A bucket of sidewalk chalk fits the bill, and all you
have to do is wash hands when it’s done!
Creative Hands Foam Kit Beads 2 Lace
Fun and great for fine motor development, Beads 2 Lace give kids the chance to string chunky foam beads in different shapes and colors to create one of a kind masterpieces. While there are a lot of pieces, this one is easy to clean up. You can even make a game out of tossing the foam pieces in the bucket when you’re done!
Alex Toys Little Hands Mosaics
Using the color coded stickers kids place them on the template and create a beautiful picture. These are great for hanging up when they’re complete! Also offers fantastic color and shape matching and fine motor development.
Crayola Model Magic
Softer and airier than the traditional play-doh, Model Magic is a great way to let kids mold and shape with less mess! It also air dries solid, giving little artists the chance to create forever masterpieces!
Crayola Bathtub Finger paint and Crayons
When you can’t avoid the mess, at least make it in the easiest place to clean up! Finger paints and crayons specifically designed for the tub, give kids the chance to make a mess. And cleaning up when they’re done is contained and fun.
What mess free crafts do your kids love?
Rebecca traded the classroom for writing when she stayed home with her three children. Passionate about authenticity, faith, and family, you can find her at RebeccaHastings.net and on Amazon. In real life, she can often be found typing words, driving her kids places or wherever there is chocolate.
Back School to
If your child is entering 7th grade they must have the Meningitis, HPV, and Tdap vaccines in order to enroll. Talk to your doctor and vaccinate them now!
Dancing Drawings
A Science Experiment
Supplies:
• Smooth dish such as a glass pie plate
• Room-temperature water
• Dry-erase markers
• Paper towels
Directions:
1. Make sure your plate is dry and then draw a shape or figure on it with the dry erase marker — anything you want!
2. Let your drawing dry.
3. Carefully add room-temperature water to the dish so that it gently flows over your drawing.
Try moving your figure around by blowing on it or gently touching it with your finger. Experiment provided by
What do you notice happening? Your figure should lift up from the surface of the dish.
What’s happening?
If your figure doesn’t lift up, wait a few moments to see if anything changes. If your figure still does not move, try a different dish. (Editor’s note: For us, non-Pyrex dishes worked best.)
Dry-erase markers, unlike permanent markers, are designed to be able to be easily wiped away from smooth, non-porous surfaces like whiteboards or glass. In order to make this happen, the ink has a special oily silicone polymer added, which helps make sure the ink
Trythis!
doesn’t stick to surfaces.
The ink used in dry-erase markers is also not soluble in water, so it won’t dissolve. If you add these two things together, you get an ink that won’t stick and won’t dissolve, which is why your drawing separates from the dish when you add water.
The dry-erase ink also has one more special property: it is less dense than water. That’s why your drawing floated and moved on the water’s surface.
Try this same experiment but then place your hand straight down on the floating shape. What happened? Did it transfer to your hand?
Alternatively, try picking your drawing up out of the water. Can you lift it up?
What happens when you put it back in the water?
Explore, Discover & Learn!
Bring the Taubman Museum of Art to you with this fun activity inspired by the exhibition In a Decade: Recent Acquisitions to Our Collection, on view through January 3, 2021. The exhibition features a variety of media, including sculptures like this one!
Materials Needed:
Model Magic or Playdough
Hard, Flat Surface Scrap Paper
TIP: Use the palms of your hands to roll the clay!
EXPERIMENT WITH TECHNIQUES
Try to make these shapes with your clay! Once you have these techniques down, you can make all kinds of things!
SLAB
Make a ball and then flatten it.
PINCH
THIS MONTH: Sculpture
Start with a ball and gently press your thumb into the center, about halfway through the ball.
COIL
Start with a ball and roll it between your hands until it looks like a hot dog.
Pinch the edges with your fingers to make a little cup or bowl, also known as a pinch pot.
Place on a table or hard surface and continue to gently roll until it looks like a snake or rope!
Now that you know some sculpture techniques, see what you can make! Try something abstract, like the sculpture Flor de Consugra, or mold your clay into a tiny creature, a yummy cupcake, or a fancy car—the possibilities are endless!
PRO TIPS
• Protect your work space with a sheet of scrap paper, wax paper, or a scrap piece of fabric!
• If you want your clay to dry, just leave it out in the open! It may take one to three days to harden completely.
• If you want to reuse your clay, keep it in a sealed bag or cover it with plastic wrap until you’re ready to play again.
• Add color with markers! You can add color whether the clay is wet or dry.
Image Credit: Steve Bickley (American, born 1953), Flor de Consugra, 2008, Powdercoated steel, Gift of Ray Kass, 2012.009
