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Make your yard a paradise for pollinators

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Habitat loss is one of the main causes of the decline in the population of bumblebees and other pollinators. If you want to help protect these vital species, consider growing nectar plants in your yard. This will provide a food source for the insects and birds that pollinate your community’s gardens, orchards, and fields.

Choosing plants
There are many kinds of flowering species that can beautify your yard while also creating an inviting space for pollinators. Sunflowers, anemones, goldenrods, echinacea, and hydrangeas are all great picks. Pollinators are attracted to a number of annuals as well, including borage, centaury, and cosmos.

If you prefer to grow food in your garden, consider planting aromatic herbs like oregano, sage, and thyme. Fruit trees and plants, such as apple, blueberry, and strawberry are a good source of nectar in spring.

Additional advice
If you want to attract pollinators to your yard, be sure to:

• Grow nectar plants in areas that are sheltered from the wind
• Include white flowers in your garden to attract nocturnal pollinators
• Provide a source of water such as a small fountain or birdbath
• Avoid weeding dandelions, clovers, and ivy; they’re rich in nectar
• Plant species with varied bloom times, so you have flowers from spring to fall

By following these tips, you’re sure to create a welcoming environment for all kinds of pollinators.

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Celebrating Grandparents’ Day: 8 Creative Intergenerational Activities that Foster Family Bonds

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Strengthening Connections Across Generations: How to Make the Most of Grandparents’ Day this September 10th.

In an age where family bonds are increasingly strained by the fast pace of modern life, the significance of Grandparents’ Day, celebrated this year on September 10th, has never been more pronounced. For grandparents and grandchildren alike, the holiday offers a unique opportunity for quality time and intergenerational bonding. But what makes an occasion memorable isn’t necessarily the grandiosity of the event but the meaning and love packed into simple activities. Here are eight inspired ideas to make this Grandparents’ Day unforgettable for your family.

Why not kick off the day with a culinary adventure? Dig up old family recipes or those rooted in local traditions. This is an educational exercise that takes both grandparents and grandchildren on a trip down memory lane, fostering a shared sense of history and culture. Cooking platforms like Tasty and Allrecipes have even added filters to find “heritage” recipes.

The activity might sound simple, but sharing a good book is a priceless experience. It provides an excellent platform for children to improve their language skills and for grandparents to impart life lessons subtly. Companies like Audible have been expanding their children’s book selection, giving an alternative way to enjoy storytelling.

Nothing bonds people like creating something together. Whether it’s crochet, pottery, or a simple collage, the focus should be on enjoying the process. Local businesses like Michaels and Joann offer intergenerational craft classes that not only teach you how to make keepsakes but also about the joy of creating together.

Conversation is an underrated activity. Grandparents sharing stories from their youth can offer a novel perspective and give young ones a glimpse into a world without smartphones or Netflix. Websites like Ancestry.com offer tools to dive deeper into family history, making the stories come alive.

A bike ride is an enjoyable, active way to spend time outdoors. If your local terrain is challenging, electric bikes are an option. The activity promotes not just physical well-being but also offers a relaxed setting for casual conversation. Companies like Trek have developed e-bikes with older riders in mind, ensuring that age is not a barrier to this fun exercise.

Outdoor activities provide a different type of learning environment. Whether it’s identifying flora and fauna or simply enjoying the fresh air, nature walks are beneficial for both body and soul. Apps like iNaturalist can make this a fun and educational exercise.

Imagine a treasure hunt where the whole world is your playground. Websites and apps offer GPS coordinates for hidden treasures in your local area. Not only is it fun, but it also introduces children to basic navigation skills.

Visit a local mini-golf or bowling alley for some good old-fashioned fun. These venues offer a relaxed atmosphere perfect for family bonding. Companies like Topgolf are revolutionizing how these traditional games can be experienced, making them more accessible to people of all ages.

Grandparents’ Day provides an opportunity for family members to bridge the generational divide, foster shared experiences, and create memories that will last a lifetime. From cooking and crafting to reading and exploring, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of this special day. So this September 10th, why not try one of these activities and give the gift of time—arguably the most precious gift of all.

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The Wealth of Simplicity: A Young Boy’s Revelation

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Redefining Affluence Through the Eyes of a Child.

In our modern society, wealth is often measured by material possessions: sprawling estates, luxury cars, and designer clothes. But does this material wealth truly equate to richness in life? An enlightening trip to the countryside unravels a different perspective on affluence and what it means to be truly wealthy.

The tale begins with the head of an affluent family, a man accustomed to the high life, wanting to impart a life lesson to his young son. The father intended to contrast their opulent life with the starkness of rural poverty. The destination? A farm owned by a family living with the basics.

The objective seemed simple enough: expose the son to hardships and help him appreciate their life of luxury. Two days were spent amidst chirping birds, vast fields, and clear skies. No five-star meals, no high-end amenities, just the simple pleasures of life.

But upon returning, the father’s expected lesson took an unforeseen twist. When asked about his experience and learnings, the son’s observations were profound.

While their mansion boasted a single dog, the rural family enjoyed the company of four loyal canines. The family’s designer pool paled in comparison to the endless natural stream that flowed near the farm. Artificial imported lanterns decorated their home, while countless sparkling stars adorned the farm. Their posh patio couldn’t compete with the vast horizon that stretched endlessly before the farmhouse.

The young boy noted further contrasts: the limited land they called property versus the boundless fields the farmers cultivated, the dependence on others for provisions as opposed to self-sufficiency, and the walled boundaries around their home in contrast to the protective circle of community and friends that the rural family cherished.

The father, anticipating a lesson in gratitude for their privileges, was met with a jarring reality check: their life, despite all its luxuries, lacked the true wealth of simplicity, self-sufficiency, and community.

Wealth, as this tale reminds us, isn’t merely tangible possessions. It’s the richness of experiences, the wealth of relationships, and the treasure of self-sustainability. In the words of the young boy, appreciating the juxtaposition between their lives and the rural family, “Thanks, Dad, for showing me how poor we are.” This story serves as a powerful reminder that sometimes, in our quest for more, we may be missing out on life’s true riches.

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Unlocking Memory Mastery: Four Techniques to Enhance Your Child’s Memorization Skills

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In every student’s academic journey, the need to commit various concepts to memory is a familiar requirement. From multiplication tables to historical timelines, mastering memorization can be a formidable challenge. Here are four tips to aid your child in navigating this essential skill effortlessly.

The initial step in fostering effective memorization skills lies in creating a conducive learning environment. This involves eliminating distractions that could interfere with your child’s concentration, such as turning off noisy devices and organizing their study space. Such an atmosphere will enhance their focus, setting the stage for optimal learning outcomes.

Understanding is the bedrock of successful memorization. Before plunging into the memorization process, ensure your child comprehends the concepts. Ask your child to rephrase the idea in their own words, confirming their grasp of the basic tenets. If confusion persists, it may be helpful to seek further clarification from teachers or classmates.

Employing a multimodal learning strategy can significantly enhance your child’s memorization abilities. Every child possesses a unique learning style, so incorporating several methods ensures that memorization caters to their strengths. Initiating with an oral approach, progressing to writing, and supplementing with visual aids like online games or educational toys can make the learning experience enjoyable and effective.

Learning is not a sprint but a marathon. It’s essential to pace the learning process to facilitate memory retention. Spaced repetition, taking breaks, and ensuring ample physical activity and sleep form an integral part of this strategy. It’s not about memorizing everything all at once but about building a steady, sustainable memory framework.

For children with learning difficulties, it’s recommended to seek assistance from a resource teacher who can provide specialized support and resources. Nurturing these strategies can empower your child, turning memorization from a daunting task into an achievable skill.

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Fresh Faces and Bold Styles: 2023 Hair and Makeup Trends

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In the ever-changing landscape of beauty, 2023 has presented an array of fresh and bold hair and makeup trends for those looking to express their personality and revitalize their look this summer.

Eyebrows, the frames of our faces, have always been a focal point in beauty trends. This year, the spotlight shifts from thick, dark brows to nearly invisible, discolored ones, inspiring a daring and avant-garde aesthetic. Pair this look with dramatic eye makeup to create a visually captivating contrast.

When it comes to hairstyles, the long fringe is making a comeback. Whether worn straight, to the side, or as a curtain, the aim is to let your bangs take center stage by covering the entire forehead. So, ready your shears and embrace the retro revival!

Skin trends in 2023 are leaning towards a more natural look, allowing your skin to breathe with light foundations, tinted moisturizers, and serums. This trend highlights the importance of skin health over heavy makeup, encouraging natural glow over artificial shine.

The focus for lips this year is the vinyl finish, offering a chic, glossy appeal that is sure to make your pout stand out. Paired with the natural complexion trend, vinyl lips provide a fantastic focal point on the face.

For an irresistible gaze, 2023 brings focus to full eyelashes, thanks to the innovation of ‘faux lash’ mascaras. Adding drama to both upper and lower lashes, your glances are sure to leave a lasting impression.

As for hair color, a playful mix named ‘Blorange,’ combining blond, orange, and pink or red hues, is this year’s color. This warm, vibrant blend promises to add a fiery touch to your look.

Men are not left out of the style reinvention, with the ‘fade’ haircut growing in popularity. This short cut features hair that is longest at the top and gradually thins towards the nape to create a smooth and modern gradient.

Whether you’re embracing the natural look or leaning towards bold styles, 2023’s trends promise plenty of choices. So, what’s your pick?

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Moving Ahead: How Physical Activity Enhances Learning in Children

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Recent findings suggest that adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly impact a child’s academic success, and physical activity plays a central role in this synergy. So how does staying active contribute to better learning outcomes?

Physical exercise offers several benefits to the brain that facilitate optimal function. For starters, activity optimizes brain oxygenation, ensuring the brain operates at its peak. Moreover, physical exertion promotes a consistent supply of glucose to the brain, a critical factor for maintaining concentration levels.

Additionally, engaging in physical activity stimulates brain areas associated with memory and learning, thereby enhancing the brain’s efficiency in absorbing new concepts. In essence, exercise primes the brain for optimal learning.

Playing sports offers tangible advantages too. It boosts physical fitness by improving strength, motor skills, and coordination. Moreover, participating in sports can enhance a child’s emotional well-being, reduce stress and anxiety levels, and foster a sense of belonging within the school community.

Numerous studies corroborate the positive impact of regular physical exercise on school performance. So, if you’re considering ways to enhance your child’s academic journey, enrolling them in a sport of their choice could be a beneficial approach. The synergy between sports and education highlights a novel perspective on child development – the fusion of physical activity and learning – offering a winning combination for academic success.

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Exploring Linguistic Landscapes: Four Strategies to Enrich Your Child’s Vocabulary

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Is your child frequently reverting to the same mundane words in their homework and writing assignments? Are they overusing commonplace verbs like “be” and “do” rather than delving into a diverse range of expressive and precise vocabulary? If so, here are four strategies that can aid your child in cultivating a rich and vibrant vocabulary.

One of the most powerful tools at your disposal is stimulating conversation. Ask open-ended questions that encourage your child to think and express themselves. A simple shift from “Did you have a nice day?” to “What did you do during recess today?” can propel them to use a wider range of words and delve deeper into their experiences.

In addition to engaging in conversation, it’s crucial to promote a reading habit. Regardless of whether your child is captivated by comic books, engrossed in novels, or intrigued by articles in a magazine, reading daily exposes them to a variety of new words. Encourage them to explore unfamiliar terms, seek their definitions, and incorporate these newfound words into their vocabulary.

Another creative and engaging method is to use imagery to reinforce new words. If a word’s definition doesn’t suffice, have your child associate the word with an image. This creates a more memorable link and helps cement the word and its meaning in their memory.

Lastly, equip your child with valuable resources such as dictionaries and thesauruses. Familiarize them with the wide array of synonyms, antonyms, and homonyms that the English language has to offer. This exploration of semantics can provide a deeper understanding of connections between words.

Enriching your child’s vocabulary doesn’t have to be a tedious task. From reading varied literature and having engaging discussions to exploring language resources and creating memorable imagery, there’s a whole world of engaging ways to diversify word usage. By keeping these activities fun and engaging, you’ll spark your child’s interest and foster a lifelong love for words.

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Thank You to our Local Business Participants:

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Aders Insurance Agency, Inc (State Farm)

Aire Serv Heating and Air Conditioning

Apple Dumpling Learning Center

Apple House

Auto Care Clinic

Avery-Hess Realty, Marilyn King

Beaver Tree Services

Blake and Co. Hair Spa

Blue Mountain Creative Consulting

Blue Ridge Arts Council

Blue Ridge Education

BNI Shenandoah Valley

C&C's Ice Cream Shop

Card My Yard

CBM Mortgage, Michelle Napier

Christine Binnix - McEnearney Associates

Code Jamboree LLC

Code Ninjas Front Royal

Cool Techs Heating and Air

Down Home Comfort Bakery

Downtown Market

Dusty's Country Store

Edward Jones-Bret Hrbek

Explore Art & Clay

Family Preservation Services

First Baptist Church

Front Royal Independent Business Alliance

Front Royal/Warren County C-CAP

First Baptist Church

Front Royal Treatment Center

Front Royal Women's Resource Center

Front Royal-Warren County Chamber of Commerce

Fussell Florist

G&M Auto Sales Inc

Garcia & Gavino Family Bakery

Gourmet Delights Gifts & Framing

Green to Ground Electrical

Groups Recover Together

Habitat for Humanity

Groups Recover Together

House of Hope

I Want Candy

I'm Just Me Movement

Jean’s Jewelers

Jen Avery, REALTOR & Jenspiration, LLC

Key Move Properties, LLC

KW Solutions

Legal Services Plans of Northern Shenendoah

Main Street Travel

Makeover Marketing Systems

Marlow Automotive Group

Mary Carnahan Graphic Design

Merchants on Main Street

Mountain Trails

Mountain View Music

National Media Services

Natural Results Chiropractic Clinic

No Doubt Accounting

Northwestern Community Services Board

Ole Timers Antiques

Penny Lane Hair Co.

Philip Vaught Real Estate Management

Phoenix Project

Reaching Out Now

Rotary Club of Warren County

Royal Blends Nutrition

Royal Cinemas

Royal Examiner

Royal Family Bowling Center

Royal Oak Bookshop

Royal Oak Computers

Royal Oak Bookshop

Royal Spice

Ruby Yoga

Salvation Army

Samuels Public Library

SaVida Health

Skyline Insurance

Shenandoah Shores Management Group

St. Luke Community Clinic

Strites Doughnuts

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The Arc of Warren County

The Institute for Association & Nonprofit Research

The Studio-A Place for Learning

The Valley Today - The River 95.3

The Vine and Leaf

Valley Chorale

Vetbuilder.com

Warren Charge (Bennett's Chapel, Limeton, Asbury)

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Warren County Department of Social Services

Warren County DSS Job Development

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WCPS Work-Based Learning

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Upcoming Events

Sep
27
Wed
10:30 am College Day @ Corron Community Development Center
College Day @ Corron Community Development Center
Sep 27 @ 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
College Day @ Corron Community Development Center
Join us for College Day at the Middletown Campus, 10:30 a.m. to noon, Wednesday, Sept. 27, in the Corron Community Development Center. Meet with reps from more than 40 public and private universities, including Bluefield[...]
6:30 pm Front Royal Wednesday Night Bingo @ Front Royal Volunteer Fire Deptartment
Front Royal Wednesday Night Bingo @ Front Royal Volunteer Fire Deptartment
Sep 27 @ 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Front Royal Wednesday Night Bingo @ Front Royal Volunteer Fire Deptartment
Bingo to support the American Cancer Society mission, organized by Relay For Life of Front Royal. Every Wednesday evening Early Bird Bingo at 6:30 p.m. Regular Bingo from 7-9:30 p.m. Food and refreshments available More[...]
Sep
30
Sat
10:00 am Fall Wild Edible Plants: Earth C... @ Sky Meadows State Park
Fall Wild Edible Plants: Earth C... @ Sky Meadows State Park
Sep 30 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Fall Wild Edible Plants: Earth Connections Series @ Sky Meadows State Park
Carriage Barn in the Historic Area. Join professional outdoor instructor Tim MacWelch to learn about the remarkable seasonal wild edible and medicinal plants of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This full-day hike will cover native and[...]
Oct
4
Wed
6:30 pm Front Royal Wednesday Night Bingo @ Front Royal Volunteer Fire Deptartment
Front Royal Wednesday Night Bingo @ Front Royal Volunteer Fire Deptartment
Oct 4 @ 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Front Royal Wednesday Night Bingo @ Front Royal Volunteer Fire Deptartment
Bingo to support the American Cancer Society mission, organized by Relay For Life of Front Royal. Every Wednesday evening Early Bird Bingo at 6:30 p.m. Regular Bingo from 7-9:30 p.m. Food and refreshments available More[...]
Oct
7
Sat
11:00 am The Farmer’s Forge @ Sky Meadows State Park
The Farmer’s Forge @ Sky Meadows State Park
Oct 7 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
The Farmer’s Forge @ Sky Meadows State Park
Historic Area. The forge is fired up and the blacksmiths are hard at work showing off their skills. Members of The Blacksmiths’ Guild of the Potomac have set up shop in the forge, located behind[...]
1:00 pm Front Royal Bluegrass Music Jam @ The Body Shop
Front Royal Bluegrass Music Jam @ The Body Shop
Oct 7 @ 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Front Royal Bluegrass Music Jam @ The Body Shop
New Bluegrass and traditional music jam the first Saturday of each month starting Feb. 4th, from 1pm till 4pm. All levels of playing invited to attend.
Oct
8
Sun
11:00 am The Farmer’s Forge @ Sky Meadows State Park
The Farmer’s Forge @ Sky Meadows State Park
Oct 8 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
The Farmer’s Forge @ Sky Meadows State Park
Historic Area. The forge is fired up and the blacksmiths are hard at work showing off their skills. Members of The Blacksmiths’ Guild of the Potomac have set up shop in the forge, located behind[...]
Oct
11
Wed
6:30 pm Front Royal Wednesday Night Bingo @ Front Royal Volunteer Fire Deptartment
Front Royal Wednesday Night Bingo @ Front Royal Volunteer Fire Deptartment
Oct 11 @ 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Front Royal Wednesday Night Bingo @ Front Royal Volunteer Fire Deptartment
Bingo to support the American Cancer Society mission, organized by Relay For Life of Front Royal. Every Wednesday evening Early Bird Bingo at 6:30 p.m. Regular Bingo from 7-9:30 p.m. Food and refreshments available More[...]
Oct
14
Sat
11:00 am The Farmer’s Forge @ Sky Meadows State Park
The Farmer’s Forge @ Sky Meadows State Park
Oct 14 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
The Farmer’s Forge @ Sky Meadows State Park
Historic Area. The forge is fired up and the blacksmiths are hard at work showing off their skills. Members of The Blacksmiths’ Guild of the Potomac have set up shop in the forge, located behind[...]
6:00 pm Astronomy for Everyone @ Sky Meadows State Park
Astronomy for Everyone @ Sky Meadows State Park
Oct 14 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Astronomy for Everyone @ Sky Meadows State Park
Historic Area. Discover our International Dark-Sky Park! Our evenings begin with a half-hour children’s “Junior Astronomer” program, followed by a discussion about the importance of dark skies and light conservation. Then join NASA’s Jet Propulsion[...]