March 2015 | Richmond Parents Monthly

Parents’ First Choice For 24 Years!

March 2015 • Priceless

Caston Studio

Portraits With Distinction

Class of 2014 70 proofs or more LIVE5 MUSIC TEAM changes of clothes CHALLENGE outdoor studio, many extras KIDS NOACTIVITIES sitting fees!

FOOD PRIZES Address: 9000 Quioccasin Rd Richmond, VA 23229 Phone: (804) 754-2800 E-mail: info@castonstudio.com Web: www.castonstudio.com

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A Link to Your Website

Boost Internet Traffic to Your Website

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Click on advertiser logo and link directly to their website at

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Now is your chance to train the traditional way in the Ving Tsun system. This is the 300 year old Shaolin Martial Art made famous by Bruce Lee. Bully Proof Your Child - Learn Self Defense Improve Fitness & Get in Shape 8904 W. Broad St. (Gold’s Gym Plaza) Call now and mention this ad to receive a free intro class.

346-3478 - VAkungfu.com

Click on advertiser logo and link directly to their website at

www.richmondparents.com

(804) 441-4882

SATURDAY MARCH14TH 9am

E

NLIN

ER O GIST

RE

Fridays 2820 W Cary St, Richmond, VA 23221 (Cartwheels and Coffee) Saturdays 3100 Grove Ave, Richmond, VA 23221

To register: westchestershamrock.com

ENB Languages 4 Kidz programs are specifically designed to introduce 3 to 6 year olds to languages through theme-based lessons. We also offer French-Spanish-Italian for 7-13 year olds.

Our unique approach to teaching language aims for children to acquire language naturally as well as foster their innate curiosities for learning about the multicultural World in which they live.

Adina Silvestri, EdD, LPC Licensed Professional Counselor 

  



Phone: (804)536-9143

• Substance Abuse Counselor Fax: Phone: (804)536-9143 (804)288-0067 • Child & Family Counselor Fax: (804)288-0067 Adina@AdinaSilvestri.com https://www.facebook.com/lifecyclesc

http://www.adinasilvestri.com

2000 Bremo Bremo Rd. 106 2000 Rd. Suite Suite 203 Richmond VA 23226 Richmond VA 23226

LUTHER MEMORIAL SCHOOL

Heartwood Grove School French Immersion | Arts Focused Now enrolling pre-k — elementary

www.HCAVirginia.com • 804-320 DOCS

2u

HeartwoodGrove.com

To Advertise here and on www.richmondparents.com call Mark Fetter 804.673.5215 WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015

www.HCAVirginia.com • 804-320 DOCS

804-321-6420 WWW.LUTHERMEMORIAL.COM

To Advertise here and on www.richmondparents.com call Mark Fetter 804.673.5215 RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015 u 3 WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

Caston Studio

Portraits With Distinction

Class of 2014 70 proofs or more LIVE5 MUSIC TEAM changes of clothes CHALLENGE outdoor studio, many extras KIDS NOACTIVITIES sitting fees!

FOOD PRIZES Address: 9000 Quioccasin Rd Richmond, VA 23229 Phone: (804) 754-2800 E-mail: info@castonstudio.com Web: www.castonstudio.com

Get Seen More

Get Seen More

Print & Web Advertisement

Print & Web Advertisement

A Link to Your Website

A Link to Your Website

Boost Internet Traffic to Your Website

Boost Internet Traffic to Your Website

Click on advertiser logo and link directly to their website at

www.richmondparents.com

Now is your chance to train the traditional way in the Ving Tsun system. This is the 300 year old Shaolin Martial Art made famous by Bruce Lee. Bully Proof Your Child - Learn Self Defense Improve Fitness & Get in Shape 8904 W. Broad St. (Gold’s Gym Plaza) Call now and mention this ad to receive a free intro class.

346-3478 - VAkungfu.com

Click on advertiser logo and link directly to their website at

www.richmondparents.com

(804) 441-4882

SATURDAY MARCH14TH 9am

E

NLIN

ER O GIST

RE

Fridays 2820 W Cary St, Richmond, VA 23221 (Cartwheels and Coffee) Saturdays 3100 Grove Ave, Richmond, VA 23221

To register: westchestershamrock.com

ENB Languages 4 Kidz programs are specifically designed to introduce 3 to 6 year olds to languages through theme-based lessons. We also offer French-Spanish-Italian for 7-13 year olds.

Our unique approach to teaching language aims for children to acquire language naturally as well as foster their innate curiosities for learning about the multicultural World in which they live.

Adina Silvestri, EdD, LPC Licensed Professional Counselor 

  



Phone: (804)536-9143

• Substance Abuse Counselor Fax: Phone: (804)536-9143 (804)288-0067 • Child & Family Counselor Fax: (804)288-0067 Adina@AdinaSilvestri.com https://www.facebook.com/lifecyclesc

http://www.adinasilvestri.com

2000 Bremo Bremo Rd. 106 2000 Rd. Suite Suite 203 Richmond VA 23226 Richmond VA 23226

LUTHER MEMORIAL SCHOOL

Heartwood Grove School French Immersion | Arts Focused Now enrolling pre-k — elementary

www.HCAVirginia.com • 804-320 DOCS

2u

HeartwoodGrove.com

To Advertise here and on www.richmondparents.com call Mark Fetter 804.673.5215 WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015

www.HCAVirginia.com • 804-320 DOCS

804-321-6420 WWW.LUTHERMEMORIAL.COM

To Advertise here and on www.richmondparents.com call Mark Fetter 804.673.5215 RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015 u 3 WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

contents

features 6 Petz Luv

Dogs and some cats seem to get into everything and eat anything they come across. March is Pet Poison Prevention Month. Petz Luv columnist Chris Miller has some suggestions on keeping your pet safe.

9 Growing Up Online

Parents need to have an understanding of the allure of anonymous social media before they can set realistic limits on its use by their offspring, ac cording to online parenting writer Carolyn Hax.

10 Healthy Kids

The best way to protect children during a measles outbreak is to get them vaccinated.

15 Gardening

Bulbs brighten the landscape in March. It’s also the On the Cover: Levi Sutton is secure in his car seat. Is your child’s car seat properly installed? How can you know if your child’s car seat is safe? Check out our safety and installation tips. PAGE 10. Photo by Jennifer Sutton

month to buy bulbs for summertime blooms, ac cording to Master Gardener Lela Martin. Check out her guide to using bulbs in your landscape.

17 Let’s Go!

From road races to art openings, there’s much to

do in the Richmond area. We have your activities calendar.

Editorial Mission: Richmond Parents Monthly is dedicated to providing parents and professionals with the best information and resources available to enhance all aspects of parenting and family life. It is also an avenue to facilitate a shared sense of community among parents by providing useful information, support and a forum for dialogue on issues that are important to all parents and families.

Volume 25, No. 3, MARCH 2015

Publisher: Mark E. Fetter Editor: Tharon Giddens Art Director: Jennifer G. Sutton Contributing Writers: Chris Miller, Lela Martin, Carolyn Jabs

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

Richmond Parents Monthly 8010 Ridge Road · Suite F · Henrico, VA 23229 804-673-5203 • Fax: 673-5308 E-Mail: mail@richmondpublishing.com • www.richmondparents.com Richmond Parents Monthly is published 12 times a year and distributed free of charge. The advertising deadline is the 10th of each month for the upcoming issue. Richmond Parents Monthly welcomes reader comments and submissions; however, the publication is not responsible for unsolicited materials. All materials received become the property of the publisher and will not be returned. We reserve the right to edit any material used for publication. The entire content of Richmond Parents Monthly is ©2014. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without the express written consent of the publisher. The views and opinions expressed by writers and columnists do not necessarily represent those of Richmond Parents Monthly or its staff.

Talk to us!

Send your comments, opinions or feedback to

Richmond Parents Monthly, 8010 Ridge Rd, Suite F, Henrico, VA 23229 or e-mail to: rpmeditor@richmondpublishing.com.

Please include your full name and address.

Comments selected for publication may be edited for clarity and length.

RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015 u 5

contents

features 6 Petz Luv

Dogs and some cats seem to get into everything and eat anything they come across. March is Pet Poison Prevention Month. Petz Luv columnist Chris Miller has some suggestions on keeping your pet safe.

9 Growing Up Online

Parents need to have an understanding of the allure of anonymous social media before they can set realistic limits on its use by their offspring, ac cording to online parenting writer Carolyn Hax.

10 Healthy Kids

The best way to protect children during a measles outbreak is to get them vaccinated.

15 Gardening

Bulbs brighten the landscape in March. It’s also the On the Cover: Levi Sutton is secure in his car seat. Is your child’s car seat properly installed? How can you know if your child’s car seat is safe? Check out our safety and installation tips. PAGE 10. Photo by Jennifer Sutton

month to buy bulbs for summertime blooms, ac cording to Master Gardener Lela Martin. Check out her guide to using bulbs in your landscape.

17 Let’s Go!

From road races to art openings, there’s much to

do in the Richmond area. We have your activities calendar.

Editorial Mission: Richmond Parents Monthly is dedicated to providing parents and professionals with the best information and resources available to enhance all aspects of parenting and family life. It is also an avenue to facilitate a shared sense of community among parents by providing useful information, support and a forum for dialogue on issues that are important to all parents and families.

Volume 25, No. 3, MARCH 2015

Publisher: Mark E. Fetter Editor: Tharon Giddens Art Director: Jennifer G. Sutton Contributing Writers: Chris Miller, Lela Martin, Carolyn Jabs

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

Richmond Parents Monthly 8010 Ridge Road · Suite F · Henrico, VA 23229 804-673-5203 • Fax: 673-5308 E-Mail: mail@richmondpublishing.com • www.richmondparents.com Richmond Parents Monthly is published 12 times a year and distributed free of charge. The advertising deadline is the 10th of each month for the upcoming issue. Richmond Parents Monthly welcomes reader comments and submissions; however, the publication is not responsible for unsolicited materials. All materials received become the property of the publisher and will not be returned. We reserve the right to edit any material used for publication. The entire content of Richmond Parents Monthly is ©2014. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without the express written consent of the publisher. The views and opinions expressed by writers and columnists do not necessarily represent those of Richmond Parents Monthly or its staff.

Talk to us!

Send your comments, opinions or feedback to

Richmond Parents Monthly, 8010 Ridge Rd, Suite F, Henrico, VA 23229 or e-mail to: rpmeditor@richmondpublishing.com.

Please include your full name and address.

Comments selected for publication may be edited for clarity and length.

RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015 u 5

PETZ LUV

By CHRIS MILLER

Pet Poison Prevention All Year Long

gested the albuterol - which causes increased heart rate, weakness and vomiting.

What are some signs your pet may have ingested something toxic?

Drs. Cochran and Inge say your should watch for anything out of the ordinary for your pet: vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea, hyperactivity. If you notice any chewed-up packaging or knocked-over garbage and suspect something was in that packaging, call your veterinarian, even if no symptoms are present. My dogs had absolutely no symptoms when they ate the Alleve container, but reading the bottle made me call the poison hotline.

How can we keep our pets safe? Keep everything out of reach. As Dr. Cochran will attest, countertops ARE NOT out of reach for pets. Keep pets safely in crates when no one can supervise them. Use baby gates and trash can lids, or put trash cans inside cabinets. Supervise all medications that children are using, including vitamins and herbal products.

Tire out those cats and dogs so they’re not prone to boredom or buy hardy toys with hidden treats they can get to so they’re less prone to snoop into something dangerous.

KEEP THEM SAFE

For More Information: http://blog.petmeds.com http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poisons/ http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants Local Emergency Veterinary Services: Deer Run Animal Wellness Center, Midlothian: (804) 639-3900 Dogwood Veterinary Emergency Center, Richmond: (804) 716-4700 Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Center, Carytown: (804) 353-9000 Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Center, Midlothian: (804) 744-9800 Veterinary Referral and Critical Care, Manakin-Sabot: (804) 784-8722

M

y dog will eat broccoli, bananas, blueberries and beans. But she also eats stuffing from toys, soles of slippers, and paper towels from the trash.

Nothing is out of the realm of possibility when it comes to what dogs and some cats will eat.

Why? They are natural scavengers who don’t have to hunt anymore since we do it for them. They are also bored. Rooting around home and finding something to chew keeps them busy when no one’s around to play with. Anything that will fit in their mouths is fair game.

There are few things more frightening to a pet owner than a pet that has ingested something unknown and is presenting symptoms of distress. Scarier still are the toxic substances pets can get into and show no symptoms of until it can be too late.

March is Pet Poison Prevention Month, but pets need our vigilance year round.

Most pet parents are aware of the toxicity of antifreeze, chocolate, grapes, and rat poison, but did you know sugarless gum can kill a dog? Many sugar-free foods are sweetened with Xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. It can result in vomiting, seizures and liver failure.

Road salt and sidewalk ice melt can get on animals’ paws or be ingested if they eat snow. Ice melt chemicals generate heat to melt snow. The chemicals can heat up an animal’s paws or digestive tract and cause serious gastrointestinal problems. Pets can also ingest another winter requirement, antifreeze, a tiny bit of which can cause kidney failure.

If you purchase these products, look for environmentally, pet friendly options.

Spring is around the corner and with it many plants which can be toxic to pets. Lilies can be fatal to cats if ingested. Other household plants and floral arrangements can also be dangerous.

Year round, our own medications can be toxic to pets.

Drs. Kim Cochran and Deborah Inge of Ashland Veterinary Hospital have treated many pets poisoned by ingesting human medications, especially anything flavored and chewable. Six years ago my dogs chewed up a plastic container of Alleve tablets. I will never know if they ingested any of the tablets, but they did spend three nights in the ER eating activated charcoal.

Dr. Inge once treated a dog whose owner used an inhaler. The dog chewed up the inhaler and in-

6 u RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015

Poison control numbers: Pet Poison Hotline: 1-800-213-6680 ($39 fee) Pet Poison Helpline: 1-855-764-7661 ($39 fee for service)

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

WORK COURTESY OF BPT

The Secret To Achieving Better Work-life Balance

I

f you’re feeling overworked and finding it a challenge to juggle the demands of your job and the rest of your life, then you’re not alone. Achieving the elusive worklife balance may be getting harder with today’s connected lifestyle, but it is still possible.

A better work-life balance doesn’t just happen overnight. It requires patience, careful thinking and attention toward understanding what is most important to you and your family. First you must focus on prioritizing your personal and professional life. Consider all the things that compete for your time. Then decide what to keep and what to discard. Think of it as streamlining your priorities, sorted by the activities that are the most important.

“No matter how hard you try, you can’t squeeze more hours into your day,” says Dr. Nancy Aragon, professor of industrial organizational psychology at Argosy University, Online Programs. “What you can do though is make more efficient use of your time. It takes persistent planning to get a management system started, but keeping a time diary helps you to become more aware of where your time is being spent.”

Aragon recommends a weekly block schedule coupled with a daily to-do list. The block schedule should be a fairly permanent, regular weekly plan that allows adequate time for necessary, recurring activities such as cooking, exercising, homework, grocery shopping, work, etc. A critical element to include in the block schedule is “flex-

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

ible time” or free time that is purposely built into your schedule. Scheduling flexible time is a way to account for unexpected, but inevitable events to be worked into your life with minimal disruption to your regular routine. In effect, you plan for the unexpected.

And although technology has the potential to improve the quality and efficiency of your daily life, it also has the potential to encroach on your work-life balance. “Set boundaries when it comes to technology,” says Aragon. “Schedule time for you and your family when it comes to accepting calls, texts, or emails

While you can’t always change your circumstances, you certainly can change how you react to them. Learn to monitor your attitude and its impact on your work perfor-

mance, relationships and everyone around you. A positive attitude can make a big difference in your energy, your focus and your pace toward achieving balance.

In addition, do not try to live up to other’s expectations. “Worklife balance is a very personal matter.

If you seek to find your own balance by emulating the ideals, priorities and expectations of others, you are doomed to miss the mark,” said Aragon. “It can require some courage to live by your own values and ideals rather than what seems to be the prevailing social norm, but the payoff is worth taking that venture out of your normative comfort zone.”

RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015 u 7

PETZ LUV

By CHRIS MILLER

Pet Poison Prevention All Year Long

gested the albuterol - which causes increased heart rate, weakness and vomiting.

What are some signs your pet may have ingested something toxic?

Drs. Cochran and Inge say your should watch for anything out of the ordinary for your pet: vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea, hyperactivity. If you notice any chewed-up packaging or knocked-over garbage and suspect something was in that packaging, call your veterinarian, even if no symptoms are present. My dogs had absolutely no symptoms when they ate the Alleve container, but reading the bottle made me call the poison hotline.

How can we keep our pets safe? Keep everything out of reach. As Dr. Cochran will attest, countertops ARE NOT out of reach for pets. Keep pets safely in crates when no one can supervise them. Use baby gates and trash can lids, or put trash cans inside cabinets. Supervise all medications that children are using, including vitamins and herbal products.

Tire out those cats and dogs so they’re not prone to boredom or buy hardy toys with hidden treats they can get to so they’re less prone to snoop into something dangerous.

KEEP THEM SAFE

For More Information: http://blog.petmeds.com http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poisons/ http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants Local Emergency Veterinary Services: Deer Run Animal Wellness Center, Midlothian: (804) 639-3900 Dogwood Veterinary Emergency Center, Richmond: (804) 716-4700 Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Center, Carytown: (804) 353-9000 Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Center, Midlothian: (804) 744-9800 Veterinary Referral and Critical Care, Manakin-Sabot: (804) 784-8722

M

y dog will eat broccoli, bananas, blueberries and beans. But she also eats stuffing from toys, soles of slippers, and paper towels from the trash.

Nothing is out of the realm of possibility when it comes to what dogs and some cats will eat.

Why? They are natural scavengers who don’t have to hunt anymore since we do it for them. They are also bored. Rooting around home and finding something to chew keeps them busy when no one’s around to play with. Anything that will fit in their mouths is fair game.

There are few things more frightening to a pet owner than a pet that has ingested something unknown and is presenting symptoms of distress. Scarier still are the toxic substances pets can get into and show no symptoms of until it can be too late.

March is Pet Poison Prevention Month, but pets need our vigilance year round.

Most pet parents are aware of the toxicity of antifreeze, chocolate, grapes, and rat poison, but did you know sugarless gum can kill a dog? Many sugar-free foods are sweetened with Xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. It can result in vomiting, seizures and liver failure.

Road salt and sidewalk ice melt can get on animals’ paws or be ingested if they eat snow. Ice melt chemicals generate heat to melt snow. The chemicals can heat up an animal’s paws or digestive tract and cause serious gastrointestinal problems. Pets can also ingest another winter requirement, antifreeze, a tiny bit of which can cause kidney failure.

If you purchase these products, look for environmentally, pet friendly options.

Spring is around the corner and with it many plants which can be toxic to pets. Lilies can be fatal to cats if ingested. Other household plants and floral arrangements can also be dangerous.

Year round, our own medications can be toxic to pets.

Drs. Kim Cochran and Deborah Inge of Ashland Veterinary Hospital have treated many pets poisoned by ingesting human medications, especially anything flavored and chewable. Six years ago my dogs chewed up a plastic container of Alleve tablets. I will never know if they ingested any of the tablets, but they did spend three nights in the ER eating activated charcoal.

Dr. Inge once treated a dog whose owner used an inhaler. The dog chewed up the inhaler and in-

6 u RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015

Poison control numbers: Pet Poison Hotline: 1-800-213-6680 ($39 fee) Pet Poison Helpline: 1-855-764-7661 ($39 fee for service)

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

WORK COURTESY OF BPT

The Secret To Achieving Better Work-life Balance

I

f you’re feeling overworked and finding it a challenge to juggle the demands of your job and the rest of your life, then you’re not alone. Achieving the elusive worklife balance may be getting harder with today’s connected lifestyle, but it is still possible.

A better work-life balance doesn’t just happen overnight. It requires patience, careful thinking and attention toward understanding what is most important to you and your family. First you must focus on prioritizing your personal and professional life. Consider all the things that compete for your time. Then decide what to keep and what to discard. Think of it as streamlining your priorities, sorted by the activities that are the most important.

“No matter how hard you try, you can’t squeeze more hours into your day,” says Dr. Nancy Aragon, professor of industrial organizational psychology at Argosy University, Online Programs. “What you can do though is make more efficient use of your time. It takes persistent planning to get a management system started, but keeping a time diary helps you to become more aware of where your time is being spent.”

Aragon recommends a weekly block schedule coupled with a daily to-do list. The block schedule should be a fairly permanent, regular weekly plan that allows adequate time for necessary, recurring activities such as cooking, exercising, homework, grocery shopping, work, etc. A critical element to include in the block schedule is “flex-

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

ible time” or free time that is purposely built into your schedule. Scheduling flexible time is a way to account for unexpected, but inevitable events to be worked into your life with minimal disruption to your regular routine. In effect, you plan for the unexpected.

And although technology has the potential to improve the quality and efficiency of your daily life, it also has the potential to encroach on your work-life balance. “Set boundaries when it comes to technology,” says Aragon. “Schedule time for you and your family when it comes to accepting calls, texts, or emails

While you can’t always change your circumstances, you certainly can change how you react to them. Learn to monitor your attitude and its impact on your work perfor-

mance, relationships and everyone around you. A positive attitude can make a big difference in your energy, your focus and your pace toward achieving balance.

In addition, do not try to live up to other’s expectations. “Worklife balance is a very personal matter.

If you seek to find your own balance by emulating the ideals, priorities and expectations of others, you are doomed to miss the mark,” said Aragon. “It can require some courage to live by your own values and ideals rather than what seems to be the prevailing social norm, but the payoff is worth taking that venture out of your normative comfort zone.”

RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015 u 7

GROWING UP ONLINE

By CAROLYN JABS

Pros and Cons of Anonymous Social Media

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If your child is showing signs of extreme distress, come to us. Our team of behavioral healthcare specialists provides acute care when your child is feeling overwhelmed. With our newly renovated facility and programs that meet the needs of adolescents, we’re here to give young people and their families the tools needed to get through the tough times. We provide free assessments 24/7, at the region’s only freestanding psychiatric facility. And, our evidence-based program is tailored to treat patients dealing with a wide range of emotional issues.

At Poplar Springs Hospital no emergency room visit, or referral, is needed.

For more information visit poplarsprings.com, or call 804-733-6874 or 866-546-2229.

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

K

eeping secrets is part of growing up. Deciding what you’ll tell people about yourself (and others) helps children develop an understanding of privacy and trust.

With Facebook and other forms of public social media, nothing is secret. Even young children now know that comments or photos become part of a person’s “permanent record.” And that’s why teens are switching to anonymous apps like Whisper, Secret, Yik Yak and FessApp that allow teens to let off steam without worrying about repercussions.

They confess crushes and mistakes, make edgy jokes, laugh over embarrassing moments and divulge sensitive information. Some open up about serious problems: Abusive relationships, conflicts with friends and family, concerns about mental and physical health and self-destructive behaviors such as anorexia, cutting and suicidal thoughts.

At their best, anonymous apps are an opportunity for young people to explore the edges of who

they are and find out that their problems are not unique.

But anonymity also has a well-documented dark side. Many people do things they wouldn’t otherwise do when they can’t be held accountable. On anonymous sites, people slander and threaten others.

They spread cruel rumors and solicit sex. Given the potential for serious problems, it’s easy for parents to overreact.

That won’t help. Without understanding the allure of anonymous social media, parents can’t set effective limits. Although every anonymous app is a little different, parents can quickly gain insight into the appeal of no-name social media by browsing whisper.sh, a site where “whispers” are shared, classified, rated and assembled into lists. Even a cursory look reveals whispers that are witty and confessional, harmless fun and seriously disturbing. Taken together, they provide a remarkable window into the anxieties, preoccupations, embarrassments and fears of other people, a collage that’s compelling for teens trying to figure out how they fit into the world.

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

A r m e d with a basic understanding of anonymous social media, parents are in a better position to talk to teens. Here are questions worth asking: What apps are you using? Find out what apps your child has installed. Just as important, find out what apps your child’s friends are using. Many kids feel they need to have a particular app simply to keep track of what’s being said by others.

How are apps being used? Some teens use anonymous apps wisely, posting funny messages or even supporting people who seem to be having a tough time. Other kids are seduced by the popularity contest. In order to get more “likes”, they push the envelope with posts that are increasingly outrageous, sexual or cruel. Children need to hear from you that you expect them to live up to their values in private as well as public settings.

What’s the appeal of anonymity? Help your child think through the pros and cons of anonymity. How does it influence what people post? Be sure your child understands that privacy policies for websites often change. Even though anonymity is likely with these apps, it’s never guaranteed. Also police can and do track down people who break the law by making threats or posting sexual photos of minors.

What’s the role of GPS? Many popular anonymous apps depend upon the location service built into every smart phone. YikYak, for example, was designed by col-

lege students so people on the same campus could share random messages. In high schools, the program has been used for bullying, bashing teachers and even bomb threats. Yik Yak erected “geofences” that are supposed to make the program off limits for many public schools but, of course, that doesn’t stop students from accessing the program in other settings. If sites like this are causing problems at your child’s school, consider disabling the GPS feature on the phone.

Which sites should be offlimits? Make it clear that you don’t want your child to use “random chat apps” such as Omegle, Chatrandom and Tiny Chat. These are adult apps which make it all too easy for teens to connect with strangers. You may also want to steer your child away from sites that have developed a reputation for bullying. Ask.fm, for example, is notorious for cruel questions such as “why are you fat?” or even “why don’t you kill yourself”.

Some anonymous social networks want to bring out the best in people.

Let (let.com) is an app that encourages people to award stars to each other. It claims to have zero tolerance for bad behavior. Outpour (www. outpour.io) allows users to share positive comments they might be too shy to make in person. Their motto: “Go find the beauty in people and tell them.”

Even sites that try to monitor and remove offensive posts won’t be successful all the time, so teens that use anonymous apps are likely to encounter material that is confusing or even upsetting. Opening up candid conversation about these apps defuses their power. Teens may not tell their parents everything, but they should have confidence that, when they are burdened by a secret, the best people to confide in are still Mom and Dad.

Carolyn Jabs, M.A., raised three computer savvy kids including one with special needs. She has been writing Growing Up Online for ten years and is working on a book about constructive responses to conflict. Visit www.growingup-online.com to read other columns.

RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015 u 9

GROWING UP ONLINE

By CAROLYN JABS

Pros and Cons of Anonymous Social Media

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At Poplar Springs Hospital no emergency room visit, or referral, is needed.

For more information visit poplarsprings.com, or call 804-733-6874 or 866-546-2229.

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K

eeping secrets is part of growing up. Deciding what you’ll tell people about yourself (and others) helps children develop an understanding of privacy and trust.

With Facebook and other forms of public social media, nothing is secret. Even young children now know that comments or photos become part of a person’s “permanent record.” And that’s why teens are switching to anonymous apps like Whisper, Secret, Yik Yak and FessApp that allow teens to let off steam without worrying about repercussions.

They confess crushes and mistakes, make edgy jokes, laugh over embarrassing moments and divulge sensitive information. Some open up about serious problems: Abusive relationships, conflicts with friends and family, concerns about mental and physical health and self-destructive behaviors such as anorexia, cutting and suicidal thoughts.

At their best, anonymous apps are an opportunity for young people to explore the edges of who

they are and find out that their problems are not unique.

But anonymity also has a well-documented dark side. Many people do things they wouldn’t otherwise do when they can’t be held accountable. On anonymous sites, people slander and threaten others.

They spread cruel rumors and solicit sex. Given the potential for serious problems, it’s easy for parents to overreact.

That won’t help. Without understanding the allure of anonymous social media, parents can’t set effective limits. Although every anonymous app is a little different, parents can quickly gain insight into the appeal of no-name social media by browsing whisper.sh, a site where “whispers” are shared, classified, rated and assembled into lists. Even a cursory look reveals whispers that are witty and confessional, harmless fun and seriously disturbing. Taken together, they provide a remarkable window into the anxieties, preoccupations, embarrassments and fears of other people, a collage that’s compelling for teens trying to figure out how they fit into the world.

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

A r m e d with a basic understanding of anonymous social media, parents are in a better position to talk to teens. Here are questions worth asking: What apps are you using? Find out what apps your child has installed. Just as important, find out what apps your child’s friends are using. Many kids feel they need to have a particular app simply to keep track of what’s being said by others.

How are apps being used? Some teens use anonymous apps wisely, posting funny messages or even supporting people who seem to be having a tough time. Other kids are seduced by the popularity contest. In order to get more “likes”, they push the envelope with posts that are increasingly outrageous, sexual or cruel. Children need to hear from you that you expect them to live up to their values in private as well as public settings.

What’s the appeal of anonymity? Help your child think through the pros and cons of anonymity. How does it influence what people post? Be sure your child understands that privacy policies for websites often change. Even though anonymity is likely with these apps, it’s never guaranteed. Also police can and do track down people who break the law by making threats or posting sexual photos of minors.

What’s the role of GPS? Many popular anonymous apps depend upon the location service built into every smart phone. YikYak, for example, was designed by col-

lege students so people on the same campus could share random messages. In high schools, the program has been used for bullying, bashing teachers and even bomb threats. Yik Yak erected “geofences” that are supposed to make the program off limits for many public schools but, of course, that doesn’t stop students from accessing the program in other settings. If sites like this are causing problems at your child’s school, consider disabling the GPS feature on the phone.

Which sites should be offlimits? Make it clear that you don’t want your child to use “random chat apps” such as Omegle, Chatrandom and Tiny Chat. These are adult apps which make it all too easy for teens to connect with strangers. You may also want to steer your child away from sites that have developed a reputation for bullying. Ask.fm, for example, is notorious for cruel questions such as “why are you fat?” or even “why don’t you kill yourself”.

Some anonymous social networks want to bring out the best in people.

Let (let.com) is an app that encourages people to award stars to each other. It claims to have zero tolerance for bad behavior. Outpour (www. outpour.io) allows users to share positive comments they might be too shy to make in person. Their motto: “Go find the beauty in people and tell them.”

Even sites that try to monitor and remove offensive posts won’t be successful all the time, so teens that use anonymous apps are likely to encounter material that is confusing or even upsetting. Opening up candid conversation about these apps defuses their power. Teens may not tell their parents everything, but they should have confidence that, when they are burdened by a secret, the best people to confide in are still Mom and Dad.

Carolyn Jabs, M.A., raised three computer savvy kids including one with special needs. She has been writing Growing Up Online for ten years and is working on a book about constructive responses to conflict. Visit www.growingup-online.com to read other columns.

RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015 u 9

PARENTING Keep Your Infant Safe When You’re on the Road

push down on the seat as you tighten the latch straps or seat belt. The seat shouldn’t move more than an inch at the belt path.

• Register your car seat with the manufacturer and sign up for recall emails to ensure your child is not riding in a

defective car seat.

• Practice safe driving. It’s going to be tough, especially if your newborn starts wailing, but remember to keep your eyes on the road. If you can’t stop yourself from turning around to check on the baby, pull over and then make sure everything is OK with your wee one.

• Keep the baby in the car seat. If one parent rides in the backseat with the baby, remember that it is never OK to remove the child from a car seat while someone is driving. The safest place for a baby (even one that’s screaming) is in a rear-facing car seat when the car is moving.

• Keep your car properly maintained. Take your car in for regular, scheduled maintenance to ensure everything is in working order and all fluids are topped. Keeping a safe car can create a safer ride for your little one.

These steps allow parents to focus on the road and should lessen some of their concerns about their child’s safety in the car. In addition, Newman also suggests parents skip using items such as a baby mirror in the car. Mirrors and other items like toys that hang from a car seat’s handle can become dangerous projectiles in a crash and harm your child or you.

10 u RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u JANUARY 2015

COURTESY OF STATEPOINT

A

How to Protect Children During a Measles Outbreak

measles outbreak that began in late 2014 in California has since spread to multiple states.

Most of those who have gotten sick from this highly infectious disease were not vaccinated against measles.

Experts are calling the current outbreak an important reminder to vaccinate children fully against the disease.

“Vaccines are one of the most important ways parents can protect their children from measles and other diseases,” says Dr. Sandra Hassink, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). “The measles vaccine is safe, necessary and effective.”

There have been no documented cases of measles in Virginia since 2001, according to information from the Virginia Department of Health.

The pediatrics academy is offering some fast facts about measles and the measles vaccine.

• Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease that spreads easily through the air or on infected surfaces. It causes rash, high fever, cough, runny nose and red watery eyes. In rare cases it can cause encephalitis that can lead to deafness or mental retardation.

Of every 1,000 people who get measles, one or two will die.

• The AAP, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the American Academy of Family Physicians all recommend children receive the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine at age 12-15 months, and again at four to six years old.

• It’s best to protect children with MMR vaccine as soon as they are old enough to receive it. Delaying vaccination leaves children vulnerable to measles for a longer period of time. Vaccinating on time also protects other children in the community, including infants younger than 12 months who cannot be vaccinated and are most susceptible to serious illness, hospitalization and death due to measles.

• Getting the measles vaccine is much safer than getting the measles infection. Like any medicine, the vaccine is capable of causing side effects but usually these are mild, such as pain or swelling at the injection site and a fever that lasts a day or two. The risk of the measles vaccine causing serious harm is extremely small.

• If you are not sure if you or your children have been fully vaccinated against measles, talk with your doctor to see if anyone in your family needs to be vaccinated. There is no risk in receiving the measles vaccine if you have been immunized before. Your pediatrician is your best source of advice on vaccinations.

More information about the measles and the measles vaccine can be found by talking with your pediatrician and by visiting www.healthychildren.org.

PHOTO CREDIT: (c) Stuchin - Fotolia.com

C

ar safety before kids is relatively simple, but after your first child is born, it becomes more complicated.

After all, babies change everything. Their arrival means that new parents need to become educated quickly - on cribs, strollers and most importantly, childsafety seats and all their rules.

And as federal recommendations on car seats continue to evolve, parents have one more thing to stay on top of.

In fact, 93 percent of new parents listed the fear of other drivers on the road as a top concern when driving with a newborn, according to a survey by Cars.com and Toluna QuickSurveys.

“Every new parent wants to cover the car in protective bubble wrap when driving with their baby.

I know my husband and I did,” says Cars.com editor and expert mom Jennifer Newman. “That isn’t realistic, but there are a few things you can take control of that will help ease your anxiety when driving with your newborn.”

Instead of bubble wrap, Newman offers the following suggestions: • Perform a car seat check in your own vehicle to see if your new car seat and car are compatible. Some stores will let you try it out in your car before you buy.

• Make sure you’re using a car seat that meets the latest federal safety requirements and the height and weight of your child.

• Read the car seat manual and your car manual to make sure you’re following recommendations regarding installation.

• Car seats can be installed with either the latch system (the lower latch and tether anchors often found in the backseat) or with the seat belt. Use whichever is easier for you but never use both at the same time.

• After connecting the seat,

HEALTH

SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

ONLY

$25

00

per year

FOR YOUR HOME DELIVERY Send payment, Name & Address to: Richmond Parents Subscription

8010 Ridge Road, Suite F Henrico, VA 23229

For more information

call 673-5203

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

®

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PARENTING Keep Your Infant Safe When You’re on the Road

push down on the seat as you tighten the latch straps or seat belt. The seat shouldn’t move more than an inch at the belt path.

• Register your car seat with the manufacturer and sign up for recall emails to ensure your child is not riding in a

defective car seat.

• Practice safe driving. It’s going to be tough, especially if your newborn starts wailing, but remember to keep your eyes on the road. If you can’t stop yourself from turning around to check on the baby, pull over and then make sure everything is OK with your wee one.

• Keep the baby in the car seat. If one parent rides in the backseat with the baby, remember that it is never OK to remove the child from a car seat while someone is driving. The safest place for a baby (even one that’s screaming) is in a rear-facing car seat when the car is moving.

• Keep your car properly maintained. Take your car in for regular, scheduled maintenance to ensure everything is in working order and all fluids are topped. Keeping a safe car can create a safer ride for your little one.

These steps allow parents to focus on the road and should lessen some of their concerns about their child’s safety in the car. In addition, Newman also suggests parents skip using items such as a baby mirror in the car. Mirrors and other items like toys that hang from a car seat’s handle can become dangerous projectiles in a crash and harm your child or you.

10 u RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u JANUARY 2015

COURTESY OF STATEPOINT

A

How to Protect Children During a Measles Outbreak

measles outbreak that began in late 2014 in California has since spread to multiple states.

Most of those who have gotten sick from this highly infectious disease were not vaccinated against measles.

Experts are calling the current outbreak an important reminder to vaccinate children fully against the disease.

“Vaccines are one of the most important ways parents can protect their children from measles and other diseases,” says Dr. Sandra Hassink, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). “The measles vaccine is safe, necessary and effective.”

There have been no documented cases of measles in Virginia since 2001, according to information from the Virginia Department of Health.

The pediatrics academy is offering some fast facts about measles and the measles vaccine.

• Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease that spreads easily through the air or on infected surfaces. It causes rash, high fever, cough, runny nose and red watery eyes. In rare cases it can cause encephalitis that can lead to deafness or mental retardation.

Of every 1,000 people who get measles, one or two will die.

• The AAP, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the American Academy of Family Physicians all recommend children receive the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine at age 12-15 months, and again at four to six years old.

• It’s best to protect children with MMR vaccine as soon as they are old enough to receive it. Delaying vaccination leaves children vulnerable to measles for a longer period of time. Vaccinating on time also protects other children in the community, including infants younger than 12 months who cannot be vaccinated and are most susceptible to serious illness, hospitalization and death due to measles.

• Getting the measles vaccine is much safer than getting the measles infection. Like any medicine, the vaccine is capable of causing side effects but usually these are mild, such as pain or swelling at the injection site and a fever that lasts a day or two. The risk of the measles vaccine causing serious harm is extremely small.

• If you are not sure if you or your children have been fully vaccinated against measles, talk with your doctor to see if anyone in your family needs to be vaccinated. There is no risk in receiving the measles vaccine if you have been immunized before. Your pediatrician is your best source of advice on vaccinations.

More information about the measles and the measles vaccine can be found by talking with your pediatrician and by visiting www.healthychildren.org.

PHOTO CREDIT: (c) Stuchin - Fotolia.com

C

ar safety before kids is relatively simple, but after your first child is born, it becomes more complicated.

After all, babies change everything. Their arrival means that new parents need to become educated quickly - on cribs, strollers and most importantly, childsafety seats and all their rules.

And as federal recommendations on car seats continue to evolve, parents have one more thing to stay on top of.

In fact, 93 percent of new parents listed the fear of other drivers on the road as a top concern when driving with a newborn, according to a survey by Cars.com and Toluna QuickSurveys.

“Every new parent wants to cover the car in protective bubble wrap when driving with their baby.

I know my husband and I did,” says Cars.com editor and expert mom Jennifer Newman. “That isn’t realistic, but there are a few things you can take control of that will help ease your anxiety when driving with your newborn.”

Instead of bubble wrap, Newman offers the following suggestions: • Perform a car seat check in your own vehicle to see if your new car seat and car are compatible. Some stores will let you try it out in your car before you buy.

• Make sure you’re using a car seat that meets the latest federal safety requirements and the height and weight of your child.

• Read the car seat manual and your car manual to make sure you’re following recommendations regarding installation.

• Car seats can be installed with either the latch system (the lower latch and tether anchors often found in the backseat) or with the seat belt. Use whichever is easier for you but never use both at the same time.

• After connecting the seat,

HEALTH

SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

ONLY

$25

00

per year

FOR YOUR HOME DELIVERY Send payment, Name & Address to: Richmond Parents Subscription

8010 Ridge Road, Suite F Henrico, VA 23229

For more information

call 673-5203

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

®

KIDS' STUFF WITH PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE™

Spring into Great Savings!

We pay $$$ on the spot for your gently used kids’ clothing, toys, furniture & equipment.

Plus, low prices on everything your kids need now! Put a little spring in your step & visit us today!

BRING IN THIS AD TO RECEIVE $5.00 OFF ANY PURCHASE OF $25 OR MORE Offer not valid with any other offer.

Limit 1 coupon per customer/per visit. Offer expires March 31, 2015

2 RICHMOND LOCATIONS! WEST END 9127 W. Broad St., T.J. Maxx Shopping Center 804-346-5552 SOUTHSIDE 9770 Midlothian Tpk., Steinmart Shopping Center 804-272-2229 Visit us at: www.onceuponachildrichmond.com RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015 u 11

SCHOOLS

TH E ATLAN TIC 10 WOME N’S BASKE TBAL L CHAMPIONSH IP RE TURNS TO RICHM ON D RICHMOND COLISEUM MARCH 4-8, 2015

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For Tickets, Visit the Richmond Coliseum Box Office at 601 E. Leigh Street

Game Schedule Wednesday, March 4 – First-Round games at 4:30 & 7 pm

Richmond's Original Family Calendar and Website

Thursday,March5–Second-Roundgames at11:30am,2 ,4:30&7 pm Friday, March 6 – Quarterfinal games at 11 am, 2, 4:30 & 7 pm Saturday, March 7 – Semifinal games at 11 am & 1:30 pm Sunday, March 8 – Championship game at 1 pm

REG

E

ach year, the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards honor the creative abilities of middle and high school students throughout the country. This year in regional competition, Chesterfield County students achieved a total of 96 Gold Keys, 81 Silver Keys and 135 honorable mentions. Gold Key winners go on to national competition; national winners will be announced in March, then honored in a ceremony at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Here is a sampling from Chesterfield County schools of some of the winning works: • Bird High student Deja Webster won a Gold Key in ceramics and glass for “Anemone.”

• Bird High student Caylie Haller won a Gold Key in painting for “In Bloom.”

• Meadowbrook High student De’Andre Tatum won a Gold Key in mixed media for “My Worst Fears.”

• Thomas Dale High student Samantha Tyree won a Gold Key in digital art for “Leading to Anywhere.”

SPECIAL TO RPM

Local Middle School Students take on NASA

S

.com

Sponsored by: BON SECOURS ST. FRANCIS WATKINS CENTRE

Benefiting:

Many thanks to the following supporters:

12 u RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015

EDUCATION

tudents at five metro Richmond area middle schools will take on after-school engineering challenges designed

by NASA as part of a national initiative to promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in schools and in the work force.

Local participants include students at Thomas H. Henderson Middle School and Thomas C. Boushall Middle School in Richmond; Falling Creek Middle School in Chesterfield; Peabody Middle School in Petersburg; and Caroline Middle School in Caroline County.

The students, using the engineering-design process and interacting with NASA experts, will attempt to solve real-world challenges facing the space agency, including how to assist astronauts in peril, how to successfully parachute a spacecraft onto the surface of Mars and how to pack for a visit to the moon. Students will have eight weeks to

ock amr

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E AT

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.com

Chesterfield students earn arts accolades

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

brainstorm, design, build and create videos documenting their efforts and their solutions. Entries from each school are due on April 16 and winners will be announced on May 1.

Virginia is one of ten states chosen by NASA and the U.S. Department of Education to participate in the 2014-2015 Engineering Design Challenge.

The participating middle schools — selected by the Virginia Department of Education based on NASA criteria — are all home to federally funded 21st Century Community Learning Center programs.

The 21st Century Community Learning Center program provides students with tutoring and enrichment activities that complement regular academic programs outside regular school hours. The program also offers literacy and other educational services to the families of participating children.

RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015 u 13

SCHOOLS

TH E ATLAN TIC 10 WOME N’S BASKE TBAL L CHAMPIONSH IP RE TURNS TO RICHM ON D RICHMOND COLISEUM MARCH 4-8, 2015

SPECIAL TO RPM

$5 Tickets Present this coupon at the Richmond Coliseum Box Office to receive

SATURDAY MARCH 14TH 9AM LIVE MUSIC TEAM CHALLENGE KIDS ACTIVITIES FOOD PRIZES

discounted tickets for five dollars!!

Must be redeemed at time of purchase in person at the Ford Box Office at the Richmond Coliseum. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offer subject to ticket availability. Cannot be applied to previously purchased tickets.

For Tickets, Visit the Richmond Coliseum Box Office at 601 E. Leigh Street

Game Schedule Wednesday, March 4 – First-Round games at 4:30 & 7 pm

Richmond's Original Family Calendar and Website

Thursday,March5–Second-Roundgames at11:30am,2 ,4:30&7 pm Friday, March 6 – Quarterfinal games at 11 am, 2, 4:30 & 7 pm Saturday, March 7 – Semifinal games at 11 am & 1:30 pm Sunday, March 8 – Championship game at 1 pm

REG

E

ach year, the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards honor the creative abilities of middle and high school students throughout the country. This year in regional competition, Chesterfield County students achieved a total of 96 Gold Keys, 81 Silver Keys and 135 honorable mentions. Gold Key winners go on to national competition; national winners will be announced in March, then honored in a ceremony at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Here is a sampling from Chesterfield County schools of some of the winning works: • Bird High student Deja Webster won a Gold Key in ceramics and glass for “Anemone.”

• Bird High student Caylie Haller won a Gold Key in painting for “In Bloom.”

• Meadowbrook High student De’Andre Tatum won a Gold Key in mixed media for “My Worst Fears.”

• Thomas Dale High student Samantha Tyree won a Gold Key in digital art for “Leading to Anywhere.”

SPECIAL TO RPM

Local Middle School Students take on NASA

S

.com

Sponsored by: BON SECOURS ST. FRANCIS WATKINS CENTRE

Benefiting:

Many thanks to the following supporters:

12 u RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015

EDUCATION

tudents at five metro Richmond area middle schools will take on after-school engineering challenges designed

by NASA as part of a national initiative to promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in schools and in the work force.

Local participants include students at Thomas H. Henderson Middle School and Thomas C. Boushall Middle School in Richmond; Falling Creek Middle School in Chesterfield; Peabody Middle School in Petersburg; and Caroline Middle School in Caroline County.

The students, using the engineering-design process and interacting with NASA experts, will attempt to solve real-world challenges facing the space agency, including how to assist astronauts in peril, how to successfully parachute a spacecraft onto the surface of Mars and how to pack for a visit to the moon. Students will have eight weeks to

ock amr

tersh

es estch

w

E AT

NLIN

O ISTER

.com

Chesterfield students earn arts accolades

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

brainstorm, design, build and create videos documenting their efforts and their solutions. Entries from each school are due on April 16 and winners will be announced on May 1.

Virginia is one of ten states chosen by NASA and the U.S. Department of Education to participate in the 2014-2015 Engineering Design Challenge.

The participating middle schools — selected by the Virginia Department of Education based on NASA criteria — are all home to federally funded 21st Century Community Learning Center programs.

The 21st Century Community Learning Center program provides students with tutoring and enrichment activities that complement regular academic programs outside regular school hours. The program also offers literacy and other educational services to the families of participating children.

RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015 u 13

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M

arch is the perfect time to shine a light on flower bulbs.

It’s when brilliant daffodils, tulips and hyacinths brighten the landscape, and it’s the month to purchase summer-blooming bulbs.

There are two general groups of bulbs: Spring-flowering (January-May) and summer-flowering (June-September). Now is the time to plan where you’d like to see additional bulbs next spring.

Spring bulbs provide early color, blooming before most annuals and perennials. Crocus, scilla, leucojum (snowbell), anemone, chionodoxa (glory-of-the-snow), and muscari (grape hyacinths) are other spring-flowering bulbs to consider.

And if you prefer daffodils or jonquils, you may plant several varieties (early, mid, and late) to lengthen the spring-blooming season.

Spring and early summerflowering bulbs must be planted in the fall to develop a root system and satisfy the cold requirement of the bulbs. In the metro Richmond area, you should plant spring-blooming bulbs by mid-November.

March also is the ideal month to buy summer-blooming bulbs. Summer-flowering bulbs include amaryllis, canna, tuberous begonia, caladium, daylily, dahlia, gladiolus, lily, and spider lily. Summer-blooming bulbs can be planted after the last spring frost (April 1120 in Richmond) when the soil temperature is at least 55 degrees. Bulbs planted before this temperature may rot before they can sprout.

Select plump, firm bulbs of high quality. If you purchase them ahead of time, keep them in a cool, dry place. Rhizomes, tubers, and

tuberous roots should be stored in peat, perlite, or vermiculite so they don’t dry out.

Bulbs can be planted in beds or in containers.

Select an appropriate site with at least 5 to 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. Bulbs left in the ground year after year should have 8 to 10 hours of daily sunlight for good flowering. The pH of the planting area should be in the 6-7 range.

Most bulbs require good drainage and will rot if planted in wet areas. You can prepare a bulb bed or dig individual planting holes.

The instructions accompanying your bulbs usually have a suggested planting depth. Generally, bulbs should be planted 2 ½ to 3 times the diameter of the bulb in depth.

Do your digging when the soil is fairly dry. Spade the soil 8-12 inches deep. Enrich the soil with fertilizer and organic matter. Use one pound of 5-10-10 fertilizer for a 5-by10-foot area, or use a small (gloved) handful for a cluster of bulbs. Place a 1-2 inch layer of organic matter over the bed. Thoroughly mix the fertilizer and organic matter with the soil.

For individual planting holes, loosen the soil below the depth the bulb is to be planted. I have used an attachment on my cordless drill to prepare the holes. Add fertilizer and cover with a layer of soil to prevent bulbs from direct contact with the fertilizer.

If voles are a problem, the bulbs can be planted in wire screen baskets to prevent the rodents from reaching and destroying them. (You can find this material in nurseries and garden centers.) Large bulbs should be 3 to 6 inches apart, small bulbs 1 to 2 inches. Bulbs will typically figure out which direction to grow regardless of how they are planted.

Rainfall usually provides enough moisture for bulbs.

Mulch bulbs 2 to 4 inches deep with straw, pine bark, hay, or ground leaves. Wait until cold weather arrives to apply the mulch.

Remove the mulch as soon as danger of severe freezing has passed in early

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

spring to provide opportunities for healthy new growth.

After plants bloom, fertilize them lightly with 5-10-10 fertilizer, no more than one pound for a 5 by 10 foot bed. You can use bone meal as an extra source of phosphorus.

When the flowers fade, you may deadhead them. Do not cut the foliage after flowering until it turns yellow. Leaves “feed” the bulb for next year’s growth. Remove the dead foliage from the ground to reduce disease to the new growth the next year.

If you were pleased with the bulbs’ performance, do not move or disturb them with the exception of tender, summer-flowering bulbs.

Summer-blooming bulbs may be dug and stored after the leaves turn yellow but before the danger of freeze damage. Use a spading fork to lift the bulbs from the ground. Wash off any soil clinging to the bulbs, except for those that are stored in pots or rhizomes, tubers, and tuberous roots. Spread the washed bulbs in a shaded place to dry. When dry, store them away from sunlight in a cool, dry basement, cellar, garage, or shed at 50-60 degrees.

Be sure that air circulates around stored bulbs. Never store bulbs more than two or three layers deep, as they can generate heat which causes decay. Leave the soil on begonia, canna, caladium, and dahlia bulbs. Store these bulbs in clumps on a slightly moistened layer of peat moss or sawdust in a cool place.

Rinse, clean, and separate them just before planting in the spring.

LEARN MORE “Flowering Bulbs: Culture and Maintenance”: https://pubs.ext. vt.edu/426/426-201/426-201_pdf. pdf “Hints for Fall-Planted Spring and Early Summer Flower Bulbs”: http://content.ces.ncsu.edu/hintsfor-fall-planted-spring-and-earlysummer-flowering-bulbs.pdf “Summerand Fall-Flowering Bulbs”: http://www.clemson.edu/ extension/hgic/plants/landscape/ flowers/hgic1156.html

Virginia Parks Accepting Applicants for Volunteers

V

olunteers are needed across Virginia to spend the summer serving in state parks, connecting park guests to natural resources and leading trail improvement projects.

The Virginia State Parks AmeriCorps Volunteer Project provides 25 opportunities for part-time AmeriCorps members to serve in state parks between April and September.

AmeriCorps members plan, develop and lead interpretive programs. They also assist park staff in coordinating service projects in Virginia State Parks.

Members serve 675 hours and receive a bi-monthly living allowance. After successfully completing a term of service, AmeriCorps members are eligible to receive an AmeriCorps education award of $2,114, which can be used for education expenses.

Volunteers selected as AmeriCorps members receive in-depth training on various subjects including trail improvement, interpretive programming, customer service, volunteer management and watercraft skills.

Applications are being accepted and positions are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

More information and the required application can be found at www.americorps.gov.

AmeriCorps is a national service program administered through the Corp. for National and Community Service. Each year, AmeriCorps offers adults of all ages and backgrounds more than 75,000 opportunities to meet critical needs in communities across America. Benefits include a modest living allowance and educational assistance at the end of service.

For more information about state park activities and amenities, or to make cabin or camping reservations, call the Virginia State Parks Customer Service Center at (800) 933-7275 or see www.virginiastateparks.gov.

RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015 u 15

GARDENING

COMMUNITY

By LELA MARTIN

SPECIAL TO RPM

Brighten Your Landscape With Bulbs

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Specialty Residential Summer Camps Girls & Boys Ages 9-17 1 & 2 Week Sessions Clover, Virginia

(855) 508-9382

office@campmotorsport.com office@chefcamp.com

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Send payment, Name & Address to: Richmond Parents Subscription 8010 Ridge Road, Suite F Henrico, VA 23229 For more information

call 673-5203 14 u RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

M

arch is the perfect time to shine a light on flower bulbs.

It’s when brilliant daffodils, tulips and hyacinths brighten the landscape, and it’s the month to purchase summer-blooming bulbs.

There are two general groups of bulbs: Spring-flowering (January-May) and summer-flowering (June-September). Now is the time to plan where you’d like to see additional bulbs next spring.

Spring bulbs provide early color, blooming before most annuals and perennials. Crocus, scilla, leucojum (snowbell), anemone, chionodoxa (glory-of-the-snow), and muscari (grape hyacinths) are other spring-flowering bulbs to consider.

And if you prefer daffodils or jonquils, you may plant several varieties (early, mid, and late) to lengthen the spring-blooming season.

Spring and early summerflowering bulbs must be planted in the fall to develop a root system and satisfy the cold requirement of the bulbs. In the metro Richmond area, you should plant spring-blooming bulbs by mid-November.

March also is the ideal month to buy summer-blooming bulbs. Summer-flowering bulbs include amaryllis, canna, tuberous begonia, caladium, daylily, dahlia, gladiolus, lily, and spider lily. Summer-blooming bulbs can be planted after the last spring frost (April 1120 in Richmond) when the soil temperature is at least 55 degrees. Bulbs planted before this temperature may rot before they can sprout.

Select plump, firm bulbs of high quality. If you purchase them ahead of time, keep them in a cool, dry place. Rhizomes, tubers, and

tuberous roots should be stored in peat, perlite, or vermiculite so they don’t dry out.

Bulbs can be planted in beds or in containers.

Select an appropriate site with at least 5 to 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. Bulbs left in the ground year after year should have 8 to 10 hours of daily sunlight for good flowering. The pH of the planting area should be in the 6-7 range.

Most bulbs require good drainage and will rot if planted in wet areas. You can prepare a bulb bed or dig individual planting holes.

The instructions accompanying your bulbs usually have a suggested planting depth. Generally, bulbs should be planted 2 ½ to 3 times the diameter of the bulb in depth.

Do your digging when the soil is fairly dry. Spade the soil 8-12 inches deep. Enrich the soil with fertilizer and organic matter. Use one pound of 5-10-10 fertilizer for a 5-by10-foot area, or use a small (gloved) handful for a cluster of bulbs. Place a 1-2 inch layer of organic matter over the bed. Thoroughly mix the fertilizer and organic matter with the soil.

For individual planting holes, loosen the soil below the depth the bulb is to be planted. I have used an attachment on my cordless drill to prepare the holes. Add fertilizer and cover with a layer of soil to prevent bulbs from direct contact with the fertilizer.

If voles are a problem, the bulbs can be planted in wire screen baskets to prevent the rodents from reaching and destroying them. (You can find this material in nurseries and garden centers.) Large bulbs should be 3 to 6 inches apart, small bulbs 1 to 2 inches. Bulbs will typically figure out which direction to grow regardless of how they are planted.

Rainfall usually provides enough moisture for bulbs.

Mulch bulbs 2 to 4 inches deep with straw, pine bark, hay, or ground leaves. Wait until cold weather arrives to apply the mulch.

Remove the mulch as soon as danger of severe freezing has passed in early

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

spring to provide opportunities for healthy new growth.

After plants bloom, fertilize them lightly with 5-10-10 fertilizer, no more than one pound for a 5 by 10 foot bed. You can use bone meal as an extra source of phosphorus.

When the flowers fade, you may deadhead them. Do not cut the foliage after flowering until it turns yellow. Leaves “feed” the bulb for next year’s growth. Remove the dead foliage from the ground to reduce disease to the new growth the next year.

If you were pleased with the bulbs’ performance, do not move or disturb them with the exception of tender, summer-flowering bulbs.

Summer-blooming bulbs may be dug and stored after the leaves turn yellow but before the danger of freeze damage. Use a spading fork to lift the bulbs from the ground. Wash off any soil clinging to the bulbs, except for those that are stored in pots or rhizomes, tubers, and tuberous roots. Spread the washed bulbs in a shaded place to dry. When dry, store them away from sunlight in a cool, dry basement, cellar, garage, or shed at 50-60 degrees.

Be sure that air circulates around stored bulbs. Never store bulbs more than two or three layers deep, as they can generate heat which causes decay. Leave the soil on begonia, canna, caladium, and dahlia bulbs. Store these bulbs in clumps on a slightly moistened layer of peat moss or sawdust in a cool place.

Rinse, clean, and separate them just before planting in the spring.

LEARN MORE “Flowering Bulbs: Culture and Maintenance”: https://pubs.ext. vt.edu/426/426-201/426-201_pdf. pdf “Hints for Fall-Planted Spring and Early Summer Flower Bulbs”: http://content.ces.ncsu.edu/hintsfor-fall-planted-spring-and-earlysummer-flowering-bulbs.pdf “Summerand Fall-Flowering Bulbs”: http://www.clemson.edu/ extension/hgic/plants/landscape/ flowers/hgic1156.html

Virginia Parks Accepting Applicants for Volunteers

V

olunteers are needed across Virginia to spend the summer serving in state parks, connecting park guests to natural resources and leading trail improvement projects.

The Virginia State Parks AmeriCorps Volunteer Project provides 25 opportunities for part-time AmeriCorps members to serve in state parks between April and September.

AmeriCorps members plan, develop and lead interpretive programs. They also assist park staff in coordinating service projects in Virginia State Parks.

Members serve 675 hours and receive a bi-monthly living allowance. After successfully completing a term of service, AmeriCorps members are eligible to receive an AmeriCorps education award of $2,114, which can be used for education expenses.

Volunteers selected as AmeriCorps members receive in-depth training on various subjects including trail improvement, interpretive programming, customer service, volunteer management and watercraft skills.

Applications are being accepted and positions are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

More information and the required application can be found at www.americorps.gov.

AmeriCorps is a national service program administered through the Corp. for National and Community Service. Each year, AmeriCorps offers adults of all ages and backgrounds more than 75,000 opportunities to meet critical needs in communities across America. Benefits include a modest living allowance and educational assistance at the end of service.

For more information about state park activities and amenities, or to make cabin or camping reservations, call the Virginia State Parks Customer Service Center at (800) 933-7275 or see www.virginiastateparks.gov.

RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015 u 15

March 2015

THROUGH MARCH 7

MARCH 11

THOSE HARVEY GIRLS: Cora Harvey Armstrong and her singing sisters in performance at Swift Creek Mill Theatre, 17401 Jefferson Davis Highway, Colonial Heights; 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. matinees; $38 show only, $55 show and buffet, discounts available to students, military, seniors and groups; (804) 748-5203 for reservations; swiftcreekmill.com

ROCKNOCEROS: Free family show 10 a.m., the Shops at Willow Lawn, 601 Willow Lawn Drive, Richmond; Coach, Williebob and Boogie Bennie, musical trio for children

MARCH 11-15 RINGLING BROS AND BARNUM & BAILEY PRESENTS LEGENDS: Various times, $15 and up, Richmond Coliseum, ticketmaster.com

MARCH 1 HENRICO CONCERT BAND: 2 p.m., Antioch Baptist Church, 3868 Antioch Church Road, Sandston

ROCK & ROLL JUBILEE: 2 p.m., Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen, 2880 Mountain Road; “live” broadcast circa 1958 featuring music of Elvis, Buddy Holly, the Everly Brothers and more, with local musicians Craig Evans, Brad Tucker, Brian Sulser, George Garrett, Jim Wark and B.J .Kocen; $27, artsglenallen.com

MARCH 4-8

Air Conditioning Specialist

Fast Service And Fair Prices Since 1946

ATLANTIC 10 WOMEN’S BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT: Richmond Coliseum, featuring conference members Davidson College, University of Dayton, Duquesne University, Fordham University, George Mason University, George Washington University, La Salle University, University of Massachusetts, University of Rhode Island, the University of Richmond, St. Bonaventure University, Saint Joseph University, St. Louis University and Virginia Commonwealth University; bracket to be announced; $10-$20, ticketmaster.com

RUMBLE SEAT REVIVAL: 7 p.m., Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen, an evening of 1920s Tin Pan Alley jazz; Second State concert series performance $15 in advance if you call (804) 261-2787, $18 at door; catered dinners on sale night of show, with beer wine and beverages available also; 2880 Mountain Road; artsglenallen.com

Check Out Our YELP Page!

Contact Hall's Tire & Auto Service Today at 804-285-3717

Located Behind Days Inn Broad Street • 2111 Dickens Road • Richmond, VA 23230 16 u RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

ing Richmond Squirrel season features music, concession items, look at upgrades to ballpark and chance to purchase tickets; first 100 fans to purchase tickets will receive a free T-shirt; happy hour drink specials until 7:30 p.m. and free shirt giveaway to first 1,000 fans; opening night is April 9 (804) 359-3866, squirrelsbaseball.com

MARCH 10

MARCH 6

Complete Car Service for American and Asian Cars

MARCH 13

MARCH 1

BYTES AND PIECES: Opening reception 5-9 p.m. for exhibit at Uptown Gallery, 1305 W. Main St.; featured artist Emma Lou Martin, guest artist Kay Shuster, and Uptown members, through April 25; (804) 353-8343

FIRST FRIDAY FAN FEST TICKETPALOOZA: 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at The Diamond; event to mark upcom-

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

TECHNOLOGY: THE GOOD, THE BAD & THE UGLY: Practical techniques to ensure that your children get the most out of media and technology without crowding out other important developmental experiences, with pediatrician Liv Schneider 6 p.m., Children’s Museum of Richmond-Short Pump, 2200 Old Brick Road, Glen Allen; Commonwealth Parenting forum series event; $30 per class and includes dinner, class, parenting experts, and interactive question and answer session; babysitting available, but reservations required; (804) 545-1272, or www.commonwealthparenting. org/rvaparentsforum/

TOUR OF THE JAMES: 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., Henrico County Administrative Boardroom; photographs and talk by Ryan Abrahamsen and Andy Thornton, who last year set out on a pontoon raft mounted with six cameras on top of a telescoping 10-foot pole, resulting in a 360-degree, surface-level photo tour of the James River; Henrico.us/ rec

MARCH. 13-15 CHICAGO: Broadway in Richmond production 8 p.m.

March 13, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.

March 14, and 2 p.m. March 25; Altria Theater 6 N. Laurel St., Richmond; $38-$73; tickets at Altria or at CenterStage box office, 600 E. Grace St., BroadwayInRichmond.com, or call (800) 514-3849.

MARCH 14 A DATE WITH FRANK AND MARILYN: 6 p.m., Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen; fundraiser for outreach programs will include a silent and live auction, art hors ‘d oeuvres and drinks and Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe tribute artists; theme is Old Hollywood; $75, 2880 Mountain Road; artsglenallen.com

RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015 u 17

March 2015

THROUGH MARCH 7

MARCH 11

THOSE HARVEY GIRLS: Cora Harvey Armstrong and her singing sisters in performance at Swift Creek Mill Theatre, 17401 Jefferson Davis Highway, Colonial Heights; 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. matinees; $38 show only, $55 show and buffet, discounts available to students, military, seniors and groups; (804) 748-5203 for reservations; swiftcreekmill.com

ROCKNOCEROS: Free family show 10 a.m., the Shops at Willow Lawn, 601 Willow Lawn Drive, Richmond; Coach, Williebob and Boogie Bennie, musical trio for children

MARCH 11-15 RINGLING BROS AND BARNUM & BAILEY PRESENTS LEGENDS: Various times, $15 and up, Richmond Coliseum, ticketmaster.com

MARCH 1 HENRICO CONCERT BAND: 2 p.m., Antioch Baptist Church, 3868 Antioch Church Road, Sandston

ROCK & ROLL JUBILEE: 2 p.m., Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen, 2880 Mountain Road; “live” broadcast circa 1958 featuring music of Elvis, Buddy Holly, the Everly Brothers and more, with local musicians Craig Evans, Brad Tucker, Brian Sulser, George Garrett, Jim Wark and B.J .Kocen; $27, artsglenallen.com

MARCH 4-8

Air Conditioning Specialist

Fast Service And Fair Prices Since 1946

ATLANTIC 10 WOMEN’S BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT: Richmond Coliseum, featuring conference members Davidson College, University of Dayton, Duquesne University, Fordham University, George Mason University, George Washington University, La Salle University, University of Massachusetts, University of Rhode Island, the University of Richmond, St. Bonaventure University, Saint Joseph University, St. Louis University and Virginia Commonwealth University; bracket to be announced; $10-$20, ticketmaster.com

RUMBLE SEAT REVIVAL: 7 p.m., Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen, an evening of 1920s Tin Pan Alley jazz; Second State concert series performance $15 in advance if you call (804) 261-2787, $18 at door; catered dinners on sale night of show, with beer wine and beverages available also; 2880 Mountain Road; artsglenallen.com

Check Out Our YELP Page!

Contact Hall's Tire & Auto Service Today at 804-285-3717

Located Behind Days Inn Broad Street • 2111 Dickens Road • Richmond, VA 23230 16 u RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

ing Richmond Squirrel season features music, concession items, look at upgrades to ballpark and chance to purchase tickets; first 100 fans to purchase tickets will receive a free T-shirt; happy hour drink specials until 7:30 p.m. and free shirt giveaway to first 1,000 fans; opening night is April 9 (804) 359-3866, squirrelsbaseball.com

MARCH 10

MARCH 6

Complete Car Service for American and Asian Cars

MARCH 13

MARCH 1

BYTES AND PIECES: Opening reception 5-9 p.m. for exhibit at Uptown Gallery, 1305 W. Main St.; featured artist Emma Lou Martin, guest artist Kay Shuster, and Uptown members, through April 25; (804) 353-8343

FIRST FRIDAY FAN FEST TICKETPALOOZA: 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at The Diamond; event to mark upcom-

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

TECHNOLOGY: THE GOOD, THE BAD & THE UGLY: Practical techniques to ensure that your children get the most out of media and technology without crowding out other important developmental experiences, with pediatrician Liv Schneider 6 p.m., Children’s Museum of Richmond-Short Pump, 2200 Old Brick Road, Glen Allen; Commonwealth Parenting forum series event; $30 per class and includes dinner, class, parenting experts, and interactive question and answer session; babysitting available, but reservations required; (804) 545-1272, or www.commonwealthparenting. org/rvaparentsforum/

TOUR OF THE JAMES: 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., Henrico County Administrative Boardroom; photographs and talk by Ryan Abrahamsen and Andy Thornton, who last year set out on a pontoon raft mounted with six cameras on top of a telescoping 10-foot pole, resulting in a 360-degree, surface-level photo tour of the James River; Henrico.us/ rec

MARCH. 13-15 CHICAGO: Broadway in Richmond production 8 p.m.

March 13, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.

March 14, and 2 p.m. March 25; Altria Theater 6 N. Laurel St., Richmond; $38-$73; tickets at Altria or at CenterStage box office, 600 E. Grace St., BroadwayInRichmond.com, or call (800) 514-3849.

MARCH 14 A DATE WITH FRANK AND MARILYN: 6 p.m., Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen; fundraiser for outreach programs will include a silent and live auction, art hors ‘d oeuvres and drinks and Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe tribute artists; theme is Old Hollywood; $75, 2880 Mountain Road; artsglenallen.com

RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015 u 17

Let’s Go! March 2014 MARCH 15 THE MUSTANG: 50 YEARS OF AN AMERICAN CLASSIC: 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Deep Run Park, 9900 Ridgefield Parkway, Henrico; multimedia presentation and chance to get up close and personal with examples of the Ford Mustang automobile, with Dave Dickey, Richmond Region AACA member and Central VA MCA Club representative; nol@henrico.us OPEN HOUSE: 1-5 p.m., Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen celebration of its 16th anniversary with free event featuring arts programming, family activities and games; 2880 Mountain Road; artsglenallen.com FIFTEEN CENT ADMISSION: Reduced admission of 15 cents on the 15th of each month for all children at all locations of the Children’s Museum of Richmond; cmor.org

MARCH 28 UKROPS MONUMENT AVENUE 10K: Road race, kids run at 8 a.m., 10K begins at 8 a.m., 10K begins at 8:30 a.m.; The Wild Feathers will headline the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k SUBWAY Post Race Festival in Monroe Park at 10:15 a.m. sportsbackers.org

THROUGH APRIL 17 YOU’RE A GOOD MAN CHARLIE BROWN: Virginia Repertory Theatre production at Hanover Tavern, 13181 Hanover Courthouse Road, Hanover; $40, $30 season subscriber, $20 rush tickets, $12

university and high school students through U-Tix ; virginiarep.org

Charlottesville and Albemarle County, Virginia are for Book Lovers!

Virginia Festival of the Book March 18-22, 2015 Five Days, Hundreds of Authors Visit www.vabook.org for Festival details Visit www.visitcharlottesville.org for tourism information Virginia Festival of the Book is produced by Virginia Foundation for the Humanities.

Entries are subject to change; call to confirm dates and times.

Entries for the April calendar are due March 9; send items to calendar@richmondpublishing.com.

MARCH 18 COLONIAL DANCE CLUB: Group dedicated to perpetuating English country dances from the 1700s meets 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesdays, Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 1214 Wilmer Ave., Richmond; (804) 266-7355.

SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

MARCH 21 BREAKFAST WITH THE BUNNY AND EASTER BONNET PARADE: 9a.m., Food Court, Regency Mall; Free Chick-Fil-A breakfast first 50 children 12 and younger;make a bonnet craft and paragde; shopregencymall.com

ONLY

$2500

MARCH 22

per year

MUSIC FROM GRACE: 2 p.m., performance by violinist Kim Ryan and pianist Dave Robbins, a tribute to memory of Chistopher Falzone, Grace Baptist Church, 4200 Dover Road,Richmond; $20 adults, $10

FOR YOUR HOME DELIVERY Send payment, Name & Address to: Richmond Parents Subscription

MARCH 26 JAZZ CAFE: Free event 6-9 p.m. Thursdays, Best Cafe, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N. Boulevard; performances by vocalist Gloria Glasgow, Calvin Brown on keyboard, Michael Hawkins on bass, Keith Willingham on drums, and Doug Bethel on trombone; vmfa.museum/calendar

MARCH 27 JOSH TURNER AND RAQUEL COLE: 8 p.m., Altria Theater 6 N. Laurel St., Richmond; $35-$593; tickets at Altria or at CenterStage box office, 600 E. Grace St., or ETIX.com

18 u RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015

8010 Ridge Road, Suite F Henrico, VA 23229

For more information

call 673-5203

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015 u 19

Let’s Go! March 2014 MARCH 15 THE MUSTANG: 50 YEARS OF AN AMERICAN CLASSIC: 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Deep Run Park, 9900 Ridgefield Parkway, Henrico; multimedia presentation and chance to get up close and personal with examples of the Ford Mustang automobile, with Dave Dickey, Richmond Region AACA member and Central VA MCA Club representative; nol@henrico.us OPEN HOUSE: 1-5 p.m., Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen celebration of its 16th anniversary with free event featuring arts programming, family activities and games; 2880 Mountain Road; artsglenallen.com FIFTEEN CENT ADMISSION: Reduced admission of 15 cents on the 15th of each month for all children at all locations of the Children’s Museum of Richmond; cmor.org

MARCH 28 UKROPS MONUMENT AVENUE 10K: Road race, kids run at 8 a.m., 10K begins at 8 a.m., 10K begins at 8:30 a.m.; The Wild Feathers will headline the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k SUBWAY Post Race Festival in Monroe Park at 10:15 a.m. sportsbackers.org

THROUGH APRIL 17 YOU’RE A GOOD MAN CHARLIE BROWN: Virginia Repertory Theatre production at Hanover Tavern, 13181 Hanover Courthouse Road, Hanover; $40, $30 season subscriber, $20 rush tickets, $12

university and high school students through U-Tix ; virginiarep.org

Charlottesville and Albemarle County, Virginia are for Book Lovers!

Virginia Festival of the Book March 18-22, 2015 Five Days, Hundreds of Authors Visit www.vabook.org for Festival details Visit www.visitcharlottesville.org for tourism information Virginia Festival of the Book is produced by Virginia Foundation for the Humanities.

Entries are subject to change; call to confirm dates and times.

Entries for the April calendar are due March 9; send items to calendar@richmondpublishing.com.

MARCH 18 COLONIAL DANCE CLUB: Group dedicated to perpetuating English country dances from the 1700s meets 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesdays, Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 1214 Wilmer Ave., Richmond; (804) 266-7355.

SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

MARCH 21 BREAKFAST WITH THE BUNNY AND EASTER BONNET PARADE: 9a.m., Food Court, Regency Mall; Free Chick-Fil-A breakfast first 50 children 12 and younger;make a bonnet craft and paragde; shopregencymall.com

ONLY

$2500

MARCH 22

per year

MUSIC FROM GRACE: 2 p.m., performance by violinist Kim Ryan and pianist Dave Robbins, a tribute to memory of Chistopher Falzone, Grace Baptist Church, 4200 Dover Road,Richmond; $20 adults, $10

FOR YOUR HOME DELIVERY Send payment, Name & Address to: Richmond Parents Subscription

MARCH 26 JAZZ CAFE: Free event 6-9 p.m. Thursdays, Best Cafe, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N. Boulevard; performances by vocalist Gloria Glasgow, Calvin Brown on keyboard, Michael Hawkins on bass, Keith Willingham on drums, and Doug Bethel on trombone; vmfa.museum/calendar

MARCH 27 JOSH TURNER AND RAQUEL COLE: 8 p.m., Altria Theater 6 N. Laurel St., Richmond; $35-$593; tickets at Altria or at CenterStage box office, 600 E. Grace St., or ETIX.com

18 u RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015

8010 Ridge Road, Suite F Henrico, VA 23229

For more information

call 673-5203

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

WWW.RICHMONDPARENTS.COM

RICHMOND PARENTS MONTHLY u MARCH 2015 u 19