I for one can’t wait for the cooler days, crisp nights, changing leaves, and football season. I’ve actually never said that last one before, and it felt weird just typing it, but this year is a whole new chapter for our family since we now have a marching band kid in the house! This fall, we’ll be cheering on the high school football team and the marching band, volunteering at the concession stand, and getting used to the busy schedule that comes with this new commitment (believe me when I say it was quite an adjustment ending our summer a month early for band camp!). We’re looking forward to watching the progression over the course of the season and meeting lots of new families along the way.
Many of you also have new norms beginning this fall, whether it’s sending a child off to kindergarten, moving a young adult to college, or becoming full-fledged empty-nesters. Whatever stage you’re in, RFM has something for you in this issue, so let’s dive in!
On page 18, you’ll read about Sherrie Page Guyer’s new chapter, her return to school after a decades-long hiatus. We’re cheering you on and inspired by you, Sherrie! On page 24, Our Real Dad Eddie Yabut’s take on what’s really important to teach our young children will warm your heart and remind you of how much we’re imparting on our kids along the way. On page 28, Paula Peters Chambers digs into the benefits of hiring a tutor for your kids of all ages. (I only wish I had read this a year ago when geometry proved to be quite the challenge for my older child!) Joan Tupponce takes us on a Wicked journey on page 56, delving into what it takes to bring this magical production to the Altria Theater stage. I had no idea so many locals take part in the production, and now I really can’t wait to see it again!
Also in this issue, learn about the good work happening at Jacob’s Chance and how you can support its mission on page 16. Plus, tips on kids and social media, breastfeeding, saving for higher education, and so much more.
You’ll want to keep this issue nearby for all of September and October – and grab some extra copies for friends and neighbors, too – because the RFM calendar is packed with fun things to do. It starts on page 72, where you’ll find a fabulous list of private school admissions and open house events, so if you’re thinking about private school for your kids, this is a wonderful snapshot of what’s coming up. Then the next 25 pages are filled with a huge variety of events, many of which are free, to entertain your whole family this fall. You’ll see lots of non-profit events, like the SpeakUp5k from CKG Foundation, Chips 4 A Chance Casino Night from Jacob’s Chance, Step Up for Down Syndrome, Blue Sky Fund’s Hike for Kids, and the always fun Regency Mile, sponsored by Live Red Foundation. And don’t forget Touch A Truck and the Rassawek Autumn Festival! There are just too many to list, so take a tip from me and head to the RFM calendar now and start circling events you don’t want to miss.
Thanks for picking up this issue and enjoy those crisp fall nights!
