With live music, vendors, and plenty of children’s activities, the BRAzaar is a hit for all ages. Health and Cancer Care providers will be offering health screenings, Breast Cancer education, information and support.

Saturday, October 5, 2013

10am – 8pm

Southside Speedway

12800 Genito Road

Midlothian, VA 23113

The event benefits the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation and it’s in memory of Denys Musselman.

Take advantage of this fun family friendly event in October and raise you money and some fun all at the same time! Click here for more information.

At Virginia Women’s Center, we follow the guidelines of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and recommend that women over age 40 have a mammogram annually. As always, there are certain circumstances or family history that might warrant earlier or additional screening. It’s important to keep in mind that guidelines give us solid recommendations, but women’s health care isn’t a one-size-fits-all proposition. One-on-one with your health care provider is the best way to determine what you need and when.

Women’s breasts are always changing. They change during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, breastfeeding and menopause. Many lumps, tenderness and other changes are benign, normal and simply the result of these hormonal changes. Along with these normal changes, problems can arise. It is important for you to be aware of any changes in your breasts. Tools such as screening mammograms and clinical breast exams, which are procedures that are performed by health care professionals at facilities like Virginia Women’s Center, can help detect breast cancer before it has progressed.

If you’re preparing for a mammogram at Virginia Women’s Center, you may find the following tips helpful:

Scheduling your appointment

• Try to schedule your mammogram for immediately after your menstrual cycle, so you will not have the breast tenderness that can occur at other times in the cycle.
• Virginia Women’s Center offers screening mammograms at our Henrico Doctors’ Forest Medical Plaza, John Rolfe Commons and Mechanicsville locations. You may be able to schedule your annual well-woman exam and mammogram at the same time. You can schedule an appointment on our secure patient portal or by calling 804.288.4084.
• You will need a physician’s order for a mammogram. If you see a VWC health care provider and are planning to have your mammogram at VWC, you do not need a written order (our providers will have access to your electronic health record).

Prior to your appointment

• If you have had a mammogram before at a location other than Virginia Women’s Center or The Ellen Shaw de Paredes Institute for Women’s Imaging, you will need to request that your prior films be sent to us before your visit. You can download the form here.
• Please verify coverage with your insurance. Any payment is requested at the time of service.

On the day of your mammogram

• Your mammogram will take approximately 20 minutes.
• Do not use perfumes, bath oils, powders or deodorant. They contain ingredients that can interfere with the clarity of the image.
• It’s best to wear a two-piece outfit to your mammogram appointment. Then, you will only have to remove your top at the time of the procedure.

If you have any questions about your upcoming mammogram, feel free to contact our office at 804.288.4084.

Additional Resources:

• Screening mammograms at Virginia Women’s Center
• Debunking the myths of mammography
• Breast self-awareness
• Understanding breast density
• Breast health

Virginia Women’s Center is an advertiser on Richmondmom.com

Sweet Monday Garden Tea

God makes the seed grow. 1 Cor. 3:7b

May 13, 2013

Time:  4-6 p.m.

Sweet Monday after Mother’s Day – Tour the gardens at the home of

Richard & Sherry Sharp

501 Rivergate Drive

Richmond, VA 23238

Richmond’s first-ever Sweet Monday Garden Tea will be held May 13, 2013 in Richmond, Virginia on the beautiful grounds at the home of Richard and Sherry Sharp.

Kim Newlen

When Kim Newlen began Sweet Monday in her home 18 years ago, she had no idea that God would take this tiny sweet seed and plant Sweet Monday outreaches around the world. According to Kim, their stated mission of “reaching out to women one sweet invitation at a time for Christ” is God’s Great Commission right here in our own backyard and beyond!

Just last month after Sweet Monday in her home, Kim heard from a Sweet Hostess in England about two Sweet Monday outreaches meeting in small villages there.  Through donations and ticket sales, the Sweet Monday organization can continue planting Sweet Monday outreaches around the world and provide support as the ministry grows.

And Sweet Monday is now in 48 states!

The Garden Party is an opportunity to enjoy the incredible gardens of the Sharp family while raising money for an important cause.

How to Purchase Tickets

Individual tickets are $25 and can be purchased several ways:

• Through the website: www.sweetmonday.org
• Mail your checks to: Sweet Monday  - ATTN: Garden Tea Tickets, 1006 Pump Road, Richmond, VA 23238
• Stop by the Sweet Monday office located at 1006 Pump Road, Richmond, VA 23238

In addition, donations can be made to help plant Sweet Monday outreaches. Make a donation “In Sweet Memory or In Sweet Honor” of a “sweet person” who has helped you bloom. Your “sweet person’s” name will be acknowledged on a blossom at the event. Your donations can also be made through the website or by mailing checks to the Sweet Monday office.

• Designate the amount you wish to donate
• Indicate the name of the “sweet person” you wish to recognize “In Sweet Memory or In Sweet Honor”
• We encourage you to email your specific memory or words of encouragement to: SweetMondayGardenTea@gmail.com

So please make plans to join in during this fun event! Feel free to wear your tea party hat and comfortable shoes when you tour the beautiful gardens of the Sharp family in Richmond.

Kim Newlen is also founder of the LookBetterThanYouFeel garment for women undergoing breast cancer treatment.

Her new devotional for women will be published and released in September, 2013.

Plan Ahead

Choose the right kindergarten for your child at upcoming open houses October 16 and 26.

HCA Girl’s Day Out is coming up October 19 – plan a fun day with a girlfriend, daughter, mother, or just go by yourself and meet other women. It’s a fantastic day of learning, socializing, shopping, and fun!

Pink Tie Gala is October 20 – mark your calendar!

October is:

• Breast Cancer Awareness Month
• Family History Month
• Virginia Wine month
• Read Aloud to a Child Week is October 21-27
• And we would be remiss if we did not report that October is National Dessert Month too – enjoy! (National Dessert DAY is October 14).

In addition to our Festivals and Family Fun, and our newest After-school Activities listing, we’ve included other ongoing activities below. Be sure and check out all of our great resources for family-friendly fun in Richmond (and even a few adult-only events!).

Be sure to book by October 15 to get great discounts at Great Wolf Lodge to be used through December! Use our special code just for Richmondmoms.

Ongoing Activities

Young Tom Jefferson at Virginia Rep’s Children’s Theatre at Willow Lawn – through October 27. Check our website for special deals on tickets too!

If You Love Your City: Prove It October 1-28, 2012 - make a difference in our city.

Free movie night at Tom Leonards every Friday in October. IT’S BACK!!!!! Every Friday night in October starting around 7pm, please join Tom Leonards Farmers Market located at 4150 Brookriver Drive, Glen Allen, VA 23060 under the big tent for kids holiday movie night. Will include free movie, popcorn, hot chocolate, apple cider, face painting and hay rides. Bring your chair or sit on hay bales.

Monday, October 8

All Fired up – Your Youngster & You: Halloween Prints - 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.  On Monday, October 8th, choose from several Halloween-themed handprint and footprint designs and let our helpful staff take care of the rest! We’ll help you get the perfect print from your infant or toddler, paint a festive border, and write a simple inscription of your choice. We strongly recommend reserving a half-hour appointment between 10am-1pm. Cost is only $25 per print project on a large rimmed dinner plate.

Inlight Lantern-Making at The Children’s Museum from 9:30 am – 5 pm - Please join 1708 Gallery for lantern-making workshops throughout the month of October at The Children’s Museum to participate in InLight Richmond! InLight Richmond 2012 is 1708 Gallery’s 5th annual, public exhibition of light-based art and performances. Free to all, InLight will kick off with a Community Lantern Parade on Friday, November 2, 2012 in the new Arts & Culture District of Downtown W. Broad Street. For more information about InLight Richmond please visit www.1708gallery.org/inlight.

Tuesday, October 9

GrowRVA Food Truck Court at Science Museum of Virginia 5pm – 8pm - Bring your friends and family to the Science Museum to find your favorite food trucks with a variety of gourmet, ethnic and specialty foods. They’ll be at the Museum the second Tuesday and third Friday of each month through the end of the year. For more information visit  the website.

End the Struggle: Understanding a Brain-Based Approach to ADHD, Social, Academic, and Behavior. Join Dr. Mark Smith, executive director of the Brain Balance Achievement Center of Richmond for this informative program for parents of children ages 4 – 17 that are struggling with academic, behavioral, emotional or sensory issues.

The Nature of Boys (Parents of boys birth – 9 years) – A class all about boys. Promises Preschool, Three Chopt Presbyterian Church, 9315 Three Chopt Road, $30 per person. By Commonwealth Parenting.  *Pre-registration required for all classes and support groups. Call 545-1272 or visit the website.

Short Pump Pals Clubhouse Meeting.  11 a.m. at Short Pump Mall Food Court.Have a magical time with Mike Klee Magic! Mike has all sorts of tricks up his sleeve and is sure to bring his bag of tricks. Join us and be mesmerized by magic tricks, and learn a thing or two. 

Wednesday, October 10

Strong Healthy Family Nights at Good Shepherd. Come to Strong Healthy Families Night at Good Shepherd Lutheran Child Development Center and learn meal planning strategies for healthy meals and snacks that your family will RAVE about! Valerie Waters, in-store registered dietician for Martin’s Food Market, will provide moms and dads with practical tips and creative solutions.

Spirited Art - every Wednesday, we will be offering an adult class at 11 a.m.  You’re welcome to bring your own lunch/snacks during this weekday class.  Check out our calendar www.myspiritedart.com.

Mommy & Me at Willow Lawn - Wednesday, October 10, 10-11:30am: Silly Bus. Stop by our Richmondmom.com table and say hello!

First Home School Day at Polegreen Church Foundation -The Historic Polegreen Church Foundation offers Richmonders a unique opportunity to experience some of the history of Richmond and Polegreen. The Foundation is planning its’ first Home School Day on Wednesday, October 10, 2012. The event will take place onsite at 6411 Heatherwood Drive in Mechanicsville, VA 23116.

Live Sky. Science Museum of Virginia.Join us for an out of this world adventure as we explore the stars

Thursday, October 11

I Love You ‘A Latte” Tray at All Fired Up for adults - 6:00 p.m  - 8:00 pm - The second thursdays of the month are now our Adult Technique Class series. This month, on Thursday, October 11th, from 6-8pm, we’ll show you how to paint a swoop server tray with an adorable coffee design (see website for design and details). Tell a friend and reserve your spot today! Cost is only $35!

October is Dyslexia Awareness Month. TNCS is hosting an event on October 11 that will help parents and caregivers understand dyslexia. Check it out and register early to attend.

Barnes & Noble Storytime at Short Pump

Friday, October 12

Kugel Ball 2012: Strike A Chord - 6:30 pm – The stage is set for a rocking evening at the Science Museum of Virginia’s Kugel Ball. Dress in your best “Blue Jean Black Tie” and get ready for an evening that’s sure to be electric! Get an all access pass to one of the world’s most iconic instruments in Guitar: The Instrument That Rocked the World. This interactive exhibit explores the evolution of the guitar, its cultural impact and the science of sound. It will strike a chord with your inner musician! The evening includes a silent auction, dinner and dancing to live music, while raising awareness and support for the Museum’s mission: Inspiring Virginians to enrich their lives through science. For more details and to purchase tickets visit this link.

Toys ‘R Us Grand Opening in Short Pump. Fun for kids and adults.The store will celebrate its grand opening weekend with great savings, giveaways, kid-friendly activities and visits from popular costumed characters beginning on Friday, October 12 through Sunday, October 14.

Unraveling the Mystery of Children’s Mental Health - From Brains to Behavior. 8:30 a.m. – 4:45 p.m. at the Library of Virginia.

An Evening with Rosanne Cash at CMoR - 7:00 p.m. – Join us for a very special evening welcoming Rosanne Cash and her husband, John Leventhal, to Richmond. Mingle with Rosanne and John, hear them share a few songs, and learn more about why Rosanne has supported Children Incorporated, a Richmond-based child sponsorship organization, for 25 years.  Tickets are limited, so make your reservations today. The event takes place on Friday evening, October 12 at the Richmond Children’s Museum, 7 until 10pm. Tickets are $75 per person.

Richmond Folk Festival in downtown Richmond historic area.

St. Catherine’s School Kindergarten Open House - 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Call 804.281.7140. Learn about what they have to offer.

After School Enrichment at All Fired Up. Working in wet clay, glass and glaze at Short Pump’s location from 3:30-4:30p.m., Carytown from 4-5 p.m.; Midlothian from 4:30-5:30 p.m. Call to register.

Saturday, October 13

The 6th Annual Step UP for Down Syndrome 5K & Family Festival is Saturday, October 13, 2012 from 8:30AM – Noon. It’s a heart-warming 5K run/walk and family festival. The event celebrates the abilities and accomplishments of individuals with Down syndrome in the Greater Richmond & Tri-Cities areas. Enjoy lots of FREE family activities, live music by The Groove Motive, DS Superstars Ceremony, pumpkin patch, fashion show featuring individuals with Down syndrome and more!  Register to run, walk or volunteer at www.dsagr.com.

Musical Morning.  10am-11:15am.  The Richmond Public Library – Main Library Auditorium.  The Board of the Richmond Public Library Foundation invites your family to a musical morning featuring musicians from the Richmond Symphony.  The program is free. You are encouraged to sponsor a book in your child’s name through the Foundation’s Buy-A-Book program.

Toys ‘R Us Grand Opening in Short Pump. Fun for kids and adults.The store will celebrate its grand opening weekend with great savings, giveaways, kid-friendly activities and visits from popular costumed characters beginning on Friday, October 12 through Sunday, October 14.

Make Someone Happy Day - Happy the Artist turns 70 and is throwing a public shindig to elebrate. Starting at 2:00 p.m. at Richmond’s Byrd Theatre – free movie, free popcorn, free cake and plenty of free fun. Happy wears colorful clown-like clothes and a bowler hat while driving mural-painted vehicles. The nationally known artist has traveled the country creating murals, exhibits, and more.

Snag-A-Job Pavilion at Innsbrook 11th Annual Fall Bash - Oysters, BBQ, local wines, and music. Must be 21_ to attend. Call 804.377.3430 for tickets or visit website. Tickets are $70 in advance; $80 at the door.

Musical Morning at the Library with musicians from the Richmond Symphony on Saturday, October 13, 2012 from 10 am to 11:15 am. It’s at the Auditorium of the Main Library, 101 E. Franklin Street, Richmond, VA and the program is free and open to the public.  The Richmond Public Library Foundation invites you and your family to a musical morning featuring musicians from the Richmond Symphony.  Join us at 10 am on Saturday, October 13, for refreshments, crafts, and an instrument petting zoo, followed by a performance at 10:30 by artists from the Richmond Symphony.

Art Workshop at CMoR - A Positive Perspective from 9:45 am – 10:30 am.

Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes 2012.

Paint the Town Green. We will meet up at Monroe Park at 8:30AM on 10/13/12 for a free breakfast. This event will satisfy any community service hours needed as long as you sign in. We will group up and head to the pick up sites at 9AM and should finish at 1PM where we will return to Monroe park for a party.

The Vintage Home Market is a gathering of some of the region’s very best vintage and antiques dealers, and true craftspeople who re-purpose and create with vintage finds. This is an indoor and outdoor fall show which also features gourmet food and beverages from local eateries.

11th House performs at the Science Museum of Virginia - performs live on stage in the exhibition Guitar: The Instrument That Rocked the World at the Science Museum of Virginia. Join us on designated Saturdays, for live guitar acoustic performances by Richmond area musicians. Each performance is about 1 hour long and is included with Museum admission.

International Mother & Daughter East Coast Pageant - October 13 at 11:00 a.m. at New Life Outreach International Church in Richmond. Compete for the crown – a family friendly event in celebration of mothers and daughters everywhere. Contact Kesha at Internationalecp@gmail.com or visit the website.

Richmond Bonsai Society Exhibit at Maymont - In celebration of the 100th Anniversary of Maymont’s Japanese Garden, the Richmond Bonsai Society will display their horticultural masterpieces and discuss the art of Bonsai, training a tree in a low pot. Free admission. Rain date is Sunday, October 14. For information, call 804-358-7166, ext. 310.

Kids Night Out at Romp n Roll.  5pm-8pm.  Romp n’ Roll Midlothian,  11541 Busy St. Richmond VA 23236.  Every kid deserves a special night out…and so do you! That’s why we created Kids Night Out. Parents get an evening to themselves while the children get to run and play with our energetic instructors and enjoy a Pizza Party dinner at Romp n’ Roll. $30, which includes a pizza dinner for ages 2-5 (potty-training not required). Reservations Required.

11th Annual Comfort Zone Camp Fall Bash - Join us for the 11th Annual Fall Bash. Enjoy all-you-can-eat oysters, barbeque, local wineries, and music from the incredible Right On.

JEFFREY A. REED MEMORIAL FUND 2ND ANNUAL 5K - Join us for the 2nd Annual 5k and One Mile Fun Run to benefit the Jeffrey A. Reed Memorial Fund! The fund, founded in memory of Army Sgt. Jeffrey Reed who was killed in Iraq in 2009, provides funding for college scholarships as well as various programs that help the veterans of our Armed Forces, both on a local and national level.

Sunday, October 14

Black Girls RUN!? Of course we do! We would like to invite you to join BGR! Richmond on Sunday, October 14 for our Monument Avenue run/walk event! The group will meet at First Baptist Church on Monument Avenue at 2:30pm. We will have a 2 mile and 3 mile walk/run. We invite women of all races and fitness levels.

Toys ‘R Us Grand Opening in Short Pump. Fun for kids and adults.The store will celebrate its grand opening weekend with great savings, giveaways, kid-friendly activities and visits from popular costumed characters beginning on Friday, October 12 through Sunday, October 14.

http://www.virginiawomenscenter.com

Just like all aspects of your health, education and regular preventative check-ups can help keep you informed and engaged in your care. However, it’s also important that you pay close attention to your own body so that you can know what is normal for you and seek medical care when your health changes and is no longer normal. With your breast health, this self-awareness is no exception.

Women’s breasts are always changing. They change during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, breastfeeding and menopause. Along with these normal changes, problems can arise. It is important for you to be aware of any changes in your breasts. Tools such as screening mammograms and clinical breast exams, which are procedures that are performed by health care professionals at facilities like Virginia Women’s Center, can help detect breast cancer before it has progressed.

In addition to regular screening mammograms and clinical breast exams, some women choose to perform a formal step-by-step breast self-exam and others prefer a visual inspection. No matter the technique you choose (both can be performed in the comfort of your own home and without any formal training), it’s important that you are aware of what your breasts normally look and feel like. Should you notice any changes, you can proactively seek medical care.

When inspecting your breasts, stand or sit in front of a mirror. Pay attention for the following changes

• Changes in color or shape of your breast
• Changes in color or texture of your skin
• Changes in nipple shape or texture
• Evidence of nipple discharge
• Dimpling or puckering anywhere on your chest

It’s common for women to be so concerned performing breast self-exams “right” that they become stressed over the technique. Performing a breast self-exam or a visual inspection of your breasts regularly are both ways for you to know how your breasts normally look and feel and to notice any changes. The goal, with or without a formal breast self-exam, is to report any breast changes to your health care provider right away.

In addition to being aware of your own health, it’s important to be knowledgeable about your specific family history, which can shape your health both in the present and the future. Knowing your family and personal health histories can help you and your health care provider determine the best plan for your individual care.

In the end, it’s important to remember that all women are unique and different. In addition to staying on top of preventative appointments and screenings, self-awareness is a key aspect to detecting changes not only in your breasts, but in your overall health.

Virginia Women’s Center is an advertiser on Richmondmom.com

Be sure and register no later than August 12 (deadline extended due to high demand!) for the Real Cute Kids Contest right here on Richmondmom.com. Photos must be taken by August 17.

GET READY

Tickles & Giggles Children’s Consignment Sale for Back to School.

Register for auditions for Madeline’s Christmas!

Register for the VHBG Youth Triathlon scheduled for August 25.

ONGOING

Donate Back-to-School Supplies through Family Lifeline by August 22. Click here for details.

Lose the Training Wheels for kids with special needs. Lose The Training Wheels is a camp that teaches individuals (8 & older) with special needs the exciting skill of riding a bicycle independently. Lose the Training Wheels is an amazing program that teaches children with disabilities how to ride a conventional two-wheeled bicycle. The children experience a freedom and confidence that was previously unavailable to them due to their specific condition. August 13th – 17th –Lose The Training Wheels at University of Richmond. You can register now for this year’s event by clicking HERE.

Richmond BMX – August FREE Race Days (August 11-18) at Richmond BMX. Announcing Free August Race Days for new BMX riders! Come out and enjoy some healthy exercise at participating tracks courtesy of USA BMX!

Nice People Dancing. Hanover Tavern. July 13 – August 26. Tickets on sale now. Nice People Dancing is a funny, light-hearted play by award-winning Broadway and Off-Broadway playwright Lee Blessing.

Kings Dominion Turns Pink! August 1 – September 3, 2012

There’s still plenty to do on our Summer Activities List.

Monday, August 13

Lose the Training Wheels for kids with special needs. Lose The Training Wheels is a camp that teaches individuals (8 & older) with special needs the exciting skill of riding a bicycle independently. Lose the Training Wheels is an amazing program that teaches children with disabilities how to ride a conventional two-wheeled bicycle. The children experience a freedom and confidence that was previously unavailable to them due to their specific condition. August 13th – 17th –Lose The Training Wheels at University of Richmond. You can register now for this year’s event by clicking HERE.

Busch Gardens – Each country will celebrate IllumiNights in its own way with multiple performances throughout the evening.

Select Chesterfield Libraries Ages 3 – 8 will enjoy an interactive puppet show featuring the legend of the firefly. Register: 804-751-CCPL. Check your local library.

Varina Library – The Science Museum visits the library to talk about crazy weather.

Commonwealth Birthing Project a non-profit organization dedicated to ending infant mortality, supporting pregnant women and building stronger families is coming to Richmond! We will be an affiliate of Birthing Project USA founded by the wonderful Kathryn Hall-Trujillo a CNN Hero 2010 and hero to pregnant women and babies for over 25 years. We are in need of more mentors SisterFriends to pregnant women and teens. If you are interested in learning more about us and what we do and how you can help shape a pregnant women life then come out to our Meet and Great with Treats Monday August 13, 2012 from 5-8pm Tuckahoe Library 1901 Starling Drive Henrico, VA 23229-4564 You may contact me Melinda King at commonwealthbirthingproject@gmail.com for more information.

Tuesday August 14

Pottery Barn Kids’ Book Club. Kids of all ages are invited to join Pottery Barn Kids for story time every Tuesday. Members receive an official Book Club Passport at their first story time and a special gift after attending five story times.

FREE Movies at Bow Tie Cinemas.  Free movie admission at Bow Tie Cinemas Movieland 17 at Boulevard Square on Tuesday and Wednesdays at 10am.  First come -first served.

Short Pump Pals Clubhouse Meeting at 11am.  Short Pump Food Court. Go nuts for NUTZY!  Enjoy a “Meet & Greet” with the Richmond Flying Squirrels mascot NUTZY and learn all about The Flying Squirrels’ family fun events!

Raising the “Cool” Kid (Parents of Children 5-11 yrs).at 6:30pm delivered by Commonwealth Parenting.

Head to the Virginia Historical Society every Tuesday and Friday night this summer for the RVA Food Truck Court, a gathering of over 10 gourmet mobile catering vendors. Participating food trucks will offer gourmet chef inspired food, specialty beverages, and desserts. Check website for changes in dates/times.

Brain Balance Program – Come to the Brain Balance Center, take a tour, and hear some great presentations on nutrition, how sensory/motor activity wires a child’s brain, using brain balance to improve cognitive function in kids, and more. Meet our terrific staff, and see what’s new at the Center. We’ll have these events on the 2nd Tuesday of every month – put us on your calendar, and bring a friend if you want to! Just call the center at 804.977.2747 to reserve your seat(s). Visit link to confirm dates and times.

Wednesday, August 15

Big Bang Boom plays parent-friendly, children’s music – for parents who have had enough of Barney, The Wiggles, and Kidz Bop. The show is high-energy and demands that the kids AND parents get involved – from getting the kids on stage to join the “Spongebob Chorus” to the parents vs. kids “Hokey Pokey Challenge!” Information: 328-4491. Reservations are required.

Spirited Art is starting a weekday class - every Wednesday, we will be offering an adult class at 11 a.m.  You’re welcome to bring your own lunch/snacks during this weekday class.  Check out our calendar www.myspiritedart.com.

FREE Movies at Bow Tie Cinemas.  Free movie admission at Bow Tie Cinemas Movieland 17 at Boulevard Square on Tuesday and Wednesdays at 10am.  First come -first served.

Food Truck at Chesterfield Town Center from 6-9 pm.  Food Truck Court will be set up at Chesterfield Town Center. The trucks are located in the outer Sears parking lot on Koger Blvd and Huguenot Rd where tables and chairs will be set out for diners.

SSSlither!: Snakes at 11 a.m. at Three Lakes Park. There are many myths about snakes, old tales told from long ago, most of which depict snakes as being evil. Meet in our classroom to learn why snakes are beneficial to our world, how they fit in the food chain and why we should do our best to protect these misunderstood reptiles. Information: 262-5055

August Musicales at Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church at 7:00 p.m.  1627 Monument Avenue, Richmond, VA.

Back to School Activities at A.C. Moore Arts & Craft Stores on August 15 from 1 pm – 3 pm.  A.C. Moore stores nationwide are hosting free Make & Take crafts and demonstration events that add pizzazz to school supplies and lasting memories.
On August 15, make an Elmer’s® Decorative Masking Tape Pencil Box.

Lunch Break Science: Understanding Headaches at The Science Museum of Virginia at 12:00 noon. Presented by Dr. Eric R. Carlsen of the Family Chiropractic Center of Richmond. Bring lunch or buy it at the café.

Thursday, August 16

Scents of Serenity is having a special guest speaker on Thursday, August 16th from Boise, ID to teach TWO very informative, educational classes on Mood Management and Essential Oils for Moms and Children using CPTG (Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade) Essential Oils.

Scents of Serenity

Short Pump Summer Concert Series – The Summer Concert Series returns beginning June 21st and continuing every Thursday evening (weather permitting) through August 16th. Families are invited to enjoy FREE live music performed by local bands, great food, PRIZES and of course, fabulous shopping! Concerts begin at 6:00 PM and run until 8:00 PM in the Main Plaza. August 16 – E3 (“Who Got The Hooch” Power Trio). Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays 4-8 p.m.; Sundays 1-5 p.m.

Fido After Five at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.  The Garden partners with the Richmond SPCA and leashed pets are allowed on these special nights.

Friday, August 17

 

NEW! Wine Glasses on Friday at Spirited Art. Bring a drink and snack and enjoy an end of summer event with other moms!

Fun in the Sun Fridays at Spirited Art. Come out and let your kids celebrate the final days of summer with Spirited Art and All Fired Up! This combination event will take place every Friday in August. Kids will paint a painting at Spirited Art and will then do a Clay pottery project with All Fired Up! What a great way to enjoy the final days of summer. To register go to www.myspiritedart.com and click on the Richmond Calendar

LiveSky at the Science Museum of Virginia at 6:00 p.m. Looking for an out of this world vacation and do you know where you want to go? Probes launched in the 1970s are just now leaving our solar system. The farthest we’ve gone is the moon, so there is plenty of space to explore. Join us as we examine space travel and the big question – how will we get all the way out into space? After the show, weather permitting, we will point telescopes into the vastness of space and see things with our own eyes! $5, free for Museum members.

Target Family Night is back by popular demand. Bring the whole family to enjoy what The Children’s Museum has to offer from 5:00-7:30pm on the third Friday of every month for just $1 per person! Click here for more information!

Fearless Friday at 5:30 p.m. at University of Richmond. Adrenaline pumping, exhilarating and amazing experience. You can only understand how amazing you can be if you try it! This program allows for alternative Friday night entertainment.  Normally, Challenge Discovery carries out teambuilding programs for corporate and community groups. With Fearless Fridays, you don’t have to be part of a group. (Bring your spouse, bring the kids, bring some friends and have some fun.)

Head to the Virginia Historical Society every Tuesday and Friday night this summer for the RVA Food Truck Court, a gathering of over 10 gourmet mobile catering vendors. Participating food trucks will offer gourmet chef inspired food, specialty beverages, and desserts. Check website for changes in dates/times.

Girls are Talking: Network to Change the World Night at Hilton Garden Inn, Downtown Richmond at 6:00 p.m. Join over 150 Richmond area teen girls and women like yourself to share your story, hear the challenges that face teens today in your community, and learn from national girl’s empowerment organization, Girls For A Change’s Virginia-based trainer, Rev. Dr. MarQuita Burton how YOU can be the change you want to see in the world.  Come on your own, and/or host a girl to attend as all girls are invited to this evening free of charge to welcome all of Richmond’s girls to participate!

Saturday, August 18 

Congenital Heart Walk with plenty of fun for the entire family. It’s at Richmond International Speedway beginning at 8:30 a.m.

Richmond Rox Pre Rides – First, we are very proud to announce that the VCU Medical Center is our new title sponsor for this inaugural year!  Thank you!  #1 hospital in VA! We have two Richmond Rox Pre Rides for you this upcoming weekend! All are welcome for the 56mile Richmond Rox Pre Ride Saturday 8/18 & Sunday 8/19 at 8am at Rocketts Landing Parking lot beside Rt 5.

Kids Night Out! At Romp n’ Roll West End. Every kid deserves a special night out…and so do you! That’s why we created Kids Night Out. Parents get an evening to themselves while the children get to run and play with our energetic instructors and enjoy a Pizza Party dinner at Romp n’ Roll!  A perfect evening indeed! Ages 2-5 (potty training not required). Reservations required – 804.249.5001. $30 which includes a pizza dinner. 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Summer Sounds at Stony Point Fashion Park – Summer is here! Enjoy live music while you stroll, shop and dine to all your favorite tunes performed by local musicians — all summer long!

Behind the Scenes at Maymont – Walk through the Employees Only door for a special peek at the inner workings of the Maymont Nature Center. Thirteen aquariums and more than 200 animals require more care than meets the eye. Ages 5 and older; adult must accompany child. $6 per person/$3 members (includes admission to the Nature Center). Register at the Visitor Center desk on the day of the program. (Groups of 5 or more must register in advance.) For information, call 804-358-7166, ext. 333.

August Street Party - Come party away the evening in the “Center of the Universe” with King Edward & the B.D.’s Band. Food beverages and dancin in the street.

Recycling and E-cycling at My Manakin Market – The Goochland Anti-Litter and Recycling Council (GARC) is sponsoring electronics recycling at the Market. Most items will be accepted for free; $5 fee for TVs. For a full list of accepted items visit www.manakinmarket.com. ChiknEGG and Four Seasons Recyling and Trading are holding a One-Day Inventory Reduction Sale on Earth Machine compost bins ($65) and Systern Rain Barrels ($55). Compost demo by Backyard Farmers, newspaper hats by Rainbow Station and our Marketeer Club kid vendors, too!

Summer Brain Skills Event at LearningRx Richmond West from 10 am – 12 pm. LearningRx is having a summer brain skills event for teachers, parents, and professionals who want to learn how to increase cognitive skills in the classroom, at home, and at work. The FREE session will be held on Saturday August 18th from 10:00 am-12 noon at the LearningRx West located at 3850 Gaskins Road, Suite 250, Richmond, VA 23233.

Family Game Night: Wii Love Games! At Armour House & Gardens at Meadowview at 6:00 p.m. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Join us for this family-fun event and play some classic games as well as today’s popular Wii! We’ll introduce your kids to games that were popular in the past while still enjoying the competition of an outdoor monster Wii challenge! Information: 343-3506.

Start Your Engines as they unveil the new, interactive race car-themed exhibit at the Children’s Museum of Richmond! Build your own car, wave the winner’s flag, and climb inside a real racecar this Saturday, August 18th at CMoR Central!

Date Night Richmond 2012 is a special night for couples to laugh and spend time together! Married comedy team Barnes & Miner will have you laughing about life, relationships, marriage, parenthood and many other things. Buy your tickets today so you and your significant other can have a night out in Richmond – encouraging and enriching your relationship!

Pamper Me Pretty Expo at the Hilton Garden Inn Airport  from noon until 5 pm.  Shopping and pampering are women’s most universal connecting points and we love nothing more than mixing over both. If you could use some down time with a favorite girlfriend, your mother, or daughter in addition to great shopping, fun and pampering then Pamper Me Pretty Expo is the perfect excuse!

Down Home Family Reunion at Abner Clay Park from 4 pm – 11 pm. The 22nd Annual Down Home Family Reunion explores a full spectrum of music, dance, stories, food, shopping and enrichment in this Celebration of African American Folklife. It’s a heritage festival that takes attendees on a folkloric journey from West Africa through the Caribbean and into America. Of course, Virginia is at the historic epicenter of the latter movement.

Comedy fans of RVA, take note! One of the biggest local comedy events of the year hits town this very weekend, and you are not going to want to miss it. The Summer Value tour, featuring Mr. Medium Energy, Todd Barry, and America’s Funnyman, Neil Hamburger, touches down at Gallery 5 this Saturday for two performances. Visit website for details.

Sunday, August 19

Music in the Park is a free, family-friendly Sunday night concert series at Forest Hill Park. Bring a picnic, chairs and the whole family for a great (free!) night in the park. 3rd Wave plays surf rock.

Richmond Rox Pre Rides – First, we are very proud to announce that the VCU Medical Center is our new title sponsor for this inaugural year!  Thank you!  #1 hospital in VA! We have two Richmond Rox Pre Rides for you this upcoming weekend! All are welcome for the 56mile Richmond Rox Pre Ride Saturday 8/18 & Sunday 8/19 at 8am at Rocketts Landing Parking lot beside Rt 5.

Patrick Henry Reenactment at St. John’s Church at 1:00 p.m. St. John’s Church presents historical reenactments at the original location of the Second Virginia Convention of March 1775. Professional actors in 1770s attire portray ten delegates, including Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington. The delegates engage in the debates and arguments of the Second Virginia Convention, which lead up to Patrick Henry’s immortal “Give me liberty or give me death!” speech.

The Brides Against Breast Cancer Nationwide Tour of Gowns is returning to Richmond, VA August 17th & 18th at the Omni Richmond Hotel.

Skate-a-Way party for CCPL Summer Reading at Skate Away, Midlothian, VA from 2 pm – 4:30 pm.  Kids, bring your completed reading log from Chesterfield County Public Library and skate for free at Skate-a-Way in Midlothian! Facility capacity is limited to 1,000 people.