Emerald Coast Parent Magazine March+April 2019 by Rob Williams

March+April 2019

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March+April 2019

contents

5 13 INSIDE THIS ISSUE

FAMILY BUILDERS

5 8

Dig This: 10 Big Benefits of Gardening with Kids Friends, Fun, Learning and Independence: Help your children decide if sleep-away camp is right for them

10 13 37

9 Ways to Help Support a Family: Friends Helping Friends in Need Get Outdoors: 8 Reasons to Spend Time in Nature Teen Talk Helpful Advice from One Teen to Another

Looking for fun, adventure, and great food? Experience life to the fullest by discovering new tastes and fun-filled experiences—the Emerald Coast has it all. Enjoy!

FAMILY FUN GUIDE Get to know the people, places, and things that make the Emerald Coast special!

Living life to its fullest begins with staying healthy, fit, and safe.

Spark up some lively conversation with your kids. Take the FamilyChatter Challenge.

RESOURCE GUIDE

YOUR FAMILY’S HEALTH

Family Chatter......................................................................22 That’s Good to Know!........................................................24 Show Her You Care, Show Him You Care........ 25-26 Teach Your Kids Something New!............................... 28 Snacks—Recipes for Tasty Get-togethers................30 Crafts—Get Creative with Your Kids............................34

Seasonal | The Arts............................................................45 Runs, Walks, & More | Sounds Fun.............................. 46 Reoccurring Local............................................................... 47

22 FamilyChatter

parent Emerald Coast

Editorial Director Tasha Williams info@itsyourmagazine.com Subject Line: Editorial Snacks & Crafts Coordinator Carol Eide info@itsyourmagazine.com Subject Line: Snacks and Crafts Contributing Authors Christa Melnyk Hines Lara Krupicka Jessica Fisher Cindy Hudson Heidi Smith Luedtke Gayla Grace Shannon Dean Calendar of Events and Resource Guide Suzanne Bratton info@itsyourmagazine.com Subject Line: Calendar Proofreader Jennifer Cullis

In everything we do, we believe in inspiring families to live, laugh, love and enjoy life—TOGETHER! Director of Sales Nathan Wilson nathanwilson@itsyourmagazine.com Phone: 503-710-1720

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Would you like to write for Emerald Coast Parent? Please contact our editorial director with your request. A submission does not guarantee publication. We reserve the right to edit all submissions. © 2019 It’s Your Magazine. All rights reserved. Emerald Coast Parent content may not be used or reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopy, without the express written permission of the publisher. Emerald Coast Parent is not responsible for the loss of or damage to unsolicited manuscripts, unsolicited artwork or any other unsolicited material. Unsolicited material will not be returned. It’s Your Magazine and its affiliates, contributors, writers, editors, publisher and designers accept no responsibility for errors or omissions with information and/or advertisements contained herein. It’s Your Magazine’s liability in the event of an error is limited to a printed correction. It’s Your Magazine does not assume liability for products or services advertised herein and assumes no responsibility for claims made by the advertisers.

4 • March+April 2019 • EC Parent Magazine

DIG THIS 10 BIG BENEFITS OF GARDENING WITH KIDS By Janeen Lewis

Most parents want their children to get outside away from phones, TV, and video games, and gardening is a great way to achieve this goal. However, recent research shows that there are several other reasons to start a garden with kids. The benefits range from making kids smarter

to making them healthier. Here are 10 great reasons to get kids gardening:

1. Students who garden score higher on science tests. Gardening is full of science. Children learn about plant classification, weather, soil, and plant pests and disease. They are introduced to botany in a natural, hands-on way, and

recent research shows that students who had gardening experiences as part of their school curriculum did better on standardized science tests than students who were not exposed to gardening in school.

2. I f they grow it, they will eat it. As a teacher, I’ve taught STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) and have served as a Junior Master Garden club leader. Continued on page 6

ItsYourMagazine.com • EC Parent Magazine • March+April 2019 • 5

Continued from page 5

In these roles I witnessed the “if they grow it, they will eat it” phenomenon. Students love to dig up what they have grown, and then curiosity gets the better of them—they want to taste it.

CURIOSITY GETS THE BETTER OF THEM—THEY WANT TO TASTE IT.

4. Gardening strengthens emotional & social skills. Children who garden learn responsibility, patience, perseverance, and how to deal with disappointment if the garden doesn’t grow the way they expected. How do they collaborate with other siblings, friends, or schoolmates to get the garden work done? These are character-building skills that research shows children reap in the garden. I witnessed this one year at a school garden when we had a drought. Watering the plants and trying to keep them healthy was an arduous task, and the students and I learned about perseverance and team work.

5. Gardening connects children with nature. When children garden, they gain ownership in what they are cultivating. I have seen my own children grow attached to the plants in the containers on our patio garden. As children become more knowledgeable about all the living things in the garden, they are less likely to be afraid of touching the plants, getting soil on their hands, or being near bugs. They are no longer afraid of the unknown when they become familiar with what is in the garden.

Master Gardener Beth Tovi volunteered to mentor students in the garden for eight years at the elementary school where she served as a media specialist. She sees the nutritional and health benefits children gain from gardening.: “With the growing concerns about obesity, diabetes, and even high blood pressure in children, gardening gets them physically active and outdoors. And children will eat anything they grow—even if it’s green.” 6. Gardening helps relieve

3. Digging in the dirt can make kids healthier. Several studies show that children who were raised on farms don’t have as many respiratory allergies, asthma, or autoimmune disorders as children who were raised in urban areas, because they were exposed to more microbes and fungi in the dirt. Letting children dig in the dirt may actually make them healthier than keeping them tidy and clean.

stress for the whole family. A garden can be therapeutic. Not that your fourth-grader is battling traffic, raising children, and feeling the demands of a pressureridden job, but even kids can feel stress, and the garden is good for eliminating it. In fact, a study in the Netherlands showed that after 30 minutes of gardening, subjects who had shown stress before they gardened had a “fully restored” positive mood. And if the adults in the family are feeling stressed, and

6 • March+April 2019 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

they garden with their children, it can help the whole family feel more harmonious.

7. Gardening teaches kids to problem-solve. “When they garden, children learn problemsolving skills,” Tovi says. “They say ‘This trellis doesn’t work very well. How can we make one that will better support this kind of plant?’” Children ask questions like “What is eating this plant?” or “Is this tree dying?”

“WHAT IS EATING THIS PLANT?” Once children become absorbed in solving the problems in a garden, they want to research to find the best answers. “They become sleuths, starting in the garden and heading into the computers,” Tovi says.

8. Gardening is a good workout. Gardening is good physical labor involving muscles that don’t always get a workout. Even the most seasoned gym-goer may admit to being sore the day after working in a garden. Gardening involves stretching, bending, digging, lifting, pulling, and raking. Gross and fine motor skills are used, and even the youngest gardener with simple tasks gets physical activity.

9. G ardening helps children become environmental stewards. When children start reaping the food and flowers that come from a garden, they realize

a garden’s impact on them and their impact on the garden. Once they have this tangible experience, it is much easier to teach them to care for the environment.

ENVIRONMENTAL CARE 10. Gardening can lead to a longer life. Studies show that adults who garden in their later years live longer. Instead of living a sedentary life, gardeners get off the couch and are active in nature. Teaching children good habits when they are young will make them more likely to follow them through life.

GET OFF THE COUCH AND INTO NATURE. Sow the seeds of a garden with your child today, and see them reap the benefits for a lifetime. v Janeen Lewis is a freelance journalist and mother of two. She loves to teach gardening to children.

EC Parent Magazine • March+April 2019 • 7

FRIENDS, FUN, LEARNING, AND INDEPENDENCE Help your children decide if sleep-away camp is right for them

Going to sleep-away camp is a summer- Different from Day Camp time tradition for many kids. It’s called Many kids go to day camps during the summer. They can be a lot of sleep-away camp because you stay over- fun, but the schedule is familiar. You start camp in the morning and go home in the afternoon. Sometimes a bus takes you or you might night there. Kids typically stay at sleep- get a ride from one of your parents or someone else’s parents. As with anything, it might take you a little while to get adjusted to the away camp for a week or longer. You might go to a traditional camp where kids swim, do crafts, put on plays, and sit around the campfire at night. Or maybe you’re going to a special-interest camp where you’ll work on your sports skills, or learn more about computers, outer space, or art. There are even camps that serve kids who have the same health problem, such as asthma or diabetes. No matter which kind of sleep-away camp you’re going to, you’re probably excited—and maybe a little nervous if it’s your first time. Be proud of yourself for being grown-up enough to go to camp. It’s a chance to try new things, like horseback riding, canoeing, playing tennis, or dancing in a dance contest! But camp is even more than just friends and fun. It’s also an opportunity to learn a little more about being independent. Read on to learn how to get prepared for a memorable camp experience.

8 • March+April 2019 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

place, the camp counselors, and the kids. But you come home every night, just like you do during the school year.

It’s a kind of vacation, but without your parents. Sleep-away camp offers some additional excitement because you’ll be there all day and night, eating your meals there and sleeping over. It’s a kind of vacation, but without your parents. You’ll probably sleep in a cabin or dorm with other kids attending the camp. You’ll probably eat together in a large cafeteria and you’ll have to share the bathroom with the other kids. Continued on page 21

Continued on page 9

By Sarah Lyons

to Help

WAYS

Support a Family When a friend is struggling through a difficult time, it is natural to want to lend a hand. Often the families that need the most help are reluctant to ask for it, which makes it hard to know exactly how to help a friend. Here are nine ideas to show your support: Bring a meal.

Friends Helping Friends in Need

This is an age-old idea. When a parent is not able to cook a meal for their family as usual, friends and family often send versatile casseroles, such as lasagna. Try thinking outside the 13x9 pan. Why not bring the family the fixings for breakfast and lunch rather than just dinner? Stock the freezer with easy, ready-to-make items such as pizza, pasta dishes, soups, and crockpot meals. Then the family can pull something out of the freezer when they are not up for cooking. Crunched for time or don’t feel like making an extra meal? Bring the family their favorite take-out, or send a gift card.

Set up a meal train. When one meal just doesn’t cover it, set up a meal train using websites like www.signupgenius.com or www.takethemameal.com. Discuss with the family the most convenient dates and times to deliver meals and solicit friends to fill all the open spots. Social media is a great place to recruit people you might not think to ask.

Social media is a great place to recruit people. Offer to babysit. Show support by offering to babysit, even if it’s just for a couple hours. If you are taking your own children to the park, swing by and 10 • March+April 2019 • EC Parent Magazine

pick up their children for the afternoon. This gets them out of the house and gives the parents a break. Driving the kids to school or activities is also a big help for a family that is dealing with change.

Give parents a break. Help with pets. Kids aren’t the only family members that need attention. If the family is making trips to the doctor or hospital, offer to feed the cat or walk the dog while they are out. This will help ease the mind of the family and give them peace of mind while they focus on what is important.

Clean the house. Sweep the floor, change laundry loads, vacuum, do dishes, or fold some laundry. Even a little bit of picking up can make a big difference. A clean house during chaos can bring some much-needed peace during a chaotic time.

A clean house during chaos can bring some much-needed peace during a chaotic time. Run errands. If you are on your way to the store anyway, why not send a quick text and ask if the family needs anything—toilet paper, diapers, or snacks? Does Mom want a coffee or some lunch? Many grocery stores offer drive-thru pick-up these days. Have the family order and pay for groceries online, then pick them up and deliver them. Offering to help put them away would be an extra bonus.

Leave a surprise on the doorstep. If the family is not up for visitors, leave a surprise on the doorstep for them. You can create a care package with special treats, magazines, snacks, and a card. A delivery of flowers is another great way to cheer them up without interrupting family time.

Create care packages. Continued on page 12 EC Parent Magazine • March+April 2019 • 11

Continued from page 12

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Take food to the hospital. It is common knowledge that hospital food is not gourmet. If someone is in the hospital supporting a family member, offer to deliver food to them. Bring homemade meals for them to warm up later or offer to sit at their loved one’s bedside while they take a walk and get some fresh air.

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Listen. Sometimes a long talk is very therapeutic. When you visit, listen attentively and offer your support. Call and check on them, even if you just leave a voicemail. In these times of texts and emails, receiving a phone call shows you will go the extra mile to support a friend. However, even an email or text shows you are offering support while leaving it in their hands to respond when the time is right.

Go the extra mile to support a friend. When a family is walking through a difficult time, it may be hard for them to ask for help or even recognize what would be helpful. These ideas are sure to make any family feel supported and loved. v

Sarah Lyons writes from her home in suburban Kansas City. After the birth of her triplets, family and friends showed their loving support for many months. She will forever be grateful and now enjoys helping others even more. 12 • March+April 2019 • EC Parent Magazine

Get Outdoors! 8 Reasons to Spend Time in Nature By Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D.

As chilly winter weather gives way to the green of springtime, kids and parents alike are drawn to the great outdoors. And that’s a good thing, because loads of recent research show the benefits of spending time in nature. Here are some highlights:

sweat to get benefits from being outside. Even low-intensity outdoor activities, such as walking or gardening for 20 minutes, can be beneficial. In fact, the biggest increase in mood and self-esteem occurs in the first 5 minutes. So what are you waiting for? Putter around in the yard to feel instantly happier.

Better Health. Inactivity increases your

What are you waiting for?

risk for physical disability and disease, yet 28% of American adults and 19% of kids age 6 to 17 are inactive today. People who spend more time outdoors are more active on average than people who spend less time outside. Ride bikes or start jogging to jumpstart your fitness routine. Hills, uneven terrain, and wind resistance challenge your muscles and your mind.

Improved Mood. Research consistently shows that outdoor exposure improves mood and protects against depression. An analysis of 30 studies done in the last 26 years found that you don’t have to break a

Sunshine. Ultraviolet rays from the sun

cause the body to produce Vitamin D, a substance that is hard to get from food sources alone. This important nutrient is crucial for calcium absorption in the body, and low levels increase your risk of fracture and osteoporosis. Studies also link Vitamin D deficiency to asthma, cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Soak up some rays to make more D. Experts say 5 to 30 minutes of sunshine two to three times a week should be enough for most people. Continued on page 16

EC Parent Magazine • March+April 2019 • 13

W H Y S H O U L D I PAY S O M E O N E T O

DO MY TAXES?

One of the questions I am asked most frequently regarding taxes is “why should I pay someone to do my taxes when I can just do them myself?” My go-to response is usually “would you try to repair your car or fix your plumbing yourself?” Now I know that DIY is a big trend right now, and there is plenty of DIY tax software on the market. I also know there are plenty of books and videos showing you how to repair your own car and fix your own plumbing. However, just because these things are available doesn’t necessarily make it a good idea to DIY. Let’s take a look at just a few reasons why you should pay someone to prepare your taxes. Tax professionals stay updated on changing tax law. This is not just because we find tax law riveting reading; it’s also because we are required to do so in order to keep our professional licenses. This is especially important this year as we have had some of the most significant tax reform since 1986. Keeping updated requires much more than just keeping up with news stories and articles that give a quick synopsis of tax law breakdown. In the event of an audit, the IRS truly does not care if you didn’t understand the tax laws and filed your own taxes; you will still owe them penalties, interest, and whatever money/credits you miscalculated in your return. When you pay someone to do your taxes, you get someone with experience and expertise in their field. Even the lowest-level tax professional is required to do a minimum of 18 credit hours of continuing education per year. The majority of us get more than that, especially if we are trying to gain new skills in the industry to 14 • March+April 2019 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

offer more services to our clients. You are also getting an extra set of eyes to catch mistakes, which can be as simple as a misspelling or a wrong Federal ID number or as complex as clients claiming credits that they are not aware they are not entitled to claim. In either instance, the mistake can cost time and money. One of my favorite reasons for paying a professional to do taxes is that we can find little-known deductions that can add up to big savings. Every day during tax season I hear, “I didn’t know I could deduct that” or “I had no idea about that tax credit.” Having a tax professional also gives you year-round tax guidance that is just a phone call away. I have clients calling all year round with tax questions and wanting advice, especially with the new tax law changes. Another big reason to have a professional do your taxes is business strategy. We can help you with things like payroll, bookkeeping and budgets. Without these extra tools, you may have no idea of what the actual picture is until it is too late to do anything about it. Growing companies should be doing quarterly checkups on their business to see where they stand. Wouldn’t you rather adjust your spending throughout the year than send Uncle Sam extra money? You can do things like prepay expenses for the next year or buy that big-ticket item you’ve been putting off. Taxes and money are very personal, just like someone’s health. However, unlike your health, for most people taxes are a once-a-year issue that has to be dealt with; so spend the money and have a professional prepare them. My final thought is this: the IRS is probably the most feared agency in America; they have the ability to bring anyone to their knees (just ask Al Capone). Why would you trust free software, operated by a layman, to prepare your legally binding financial statement to the most feared agency in America? v

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Body Image. If Zumba makes you feel more like a three-footed klutz than a Latin temptress, you’re not alone. Full-frontal mirrors and the presence of other people cause gym goers to focus on how they look while exercising instead of what they’re doing. In the natural environment, you’re better able to focus on how it feels to move your body and what your body can do. What’s not to like about that?

Does Zumba make you feel like a three-footed klutz? Renewed Focus. Research conducted

at the University of Michigan shows that the relaxed quiet of outdoor environments allows our brains to recharge. In nature— where we aren’t bombarded by text messages and to-do lists—we’re able to tune in to subtle details like budding leaves and animal paw prints. The shift in stimulation

increases people’s ability to focus attention on work-relevant technical details and improves memory.

Fewer Symptoms of ADHD.

A national survey of more than 400 parents of children with ADHD found that those who regularly played outdoors in unstructured green spaces like parks and woodlands had less severe symptoms than kids who played indoors or on outdoor playgrounds with man-made structures. A nature walk or trip to the beach may be just what the doctor ordered.

Enhanced Creativity. Researchers

from the University of Kansas found that backpackers who spent 4 days in nature— unplugged from electronics—scored a full 50 percent better on a creative problem-solving test. It’s not clear whether time in nature or time out from technology—or a combination of both—was responsible for this impressive result. Lesson for you? Leave your cell phone at home. Or at least turn it off.

Less Stress. Outdoor environments aren’t created equal. Studies show that a 50-minute walk in the park is more restorative than walking the same distance and duration on city streets. People who walked in nature reported feeling less time pressure and more positive feelings than urban walkers did. If a city stroll is your only option, take a friend. Those who walked with a buddy felt more invigorated after an urban outing. No matter what you do in the great outdoors, make sure to enjoy it with all your senses. Breathe deeply. Listen for birdsong. Look at cloud shapes. Smell the roses. Feel the ground beneath your feet and the wind in your hair. Claim your place in the big, wide world. Nature is always waiting. v

Heidi Smith Luedtke is a psychologist and mom who enjoys walking around the block while her kids ride scooters. She is the author of Detachment Parenting.

30 Outdoor Activities to Do with Kids 1. Blow bubbles 2. Walk the dog 3. Scout for squirrels 4. Play catch 5. Use sidewalk chalk 6. Throw a Frisbee 7. Ride bikes 8. Sail toy boats on a pond at the park 9. Dig in the dirt for worms 10. Fly a kite 11. Run 12. Skip 13. Roller skate 14. Do cartwheels 15. Play hide-and-seek 16. Catch butterflies or lightning bugs 17. Plant flowers 18. Water the lawn 19. Play in the sprinklers 20. Have a relay race 21. Sleep under the stars 22. Look for beautiful birds 23. Listen to waterfalls or rushing rivers 24. Hike to a scenic spot 25. Watch wildlife 26. See the sunset 27. Take photographs 28. Fly paper airplanes 29. Collect feathers, leaves and rocks 30. Play hopscotch

Learn about Vitamin D recommendations and supplementation

http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminD-HealthProfessional

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Locate bike trails and road-riding routes in your area http://www.mapmyride.com

• Skin Tags are a small flap of tissue that hangs off of

the skin. They are typically found on the neck, chest, back, armpits, or groin area. Benign and not dangerous, they occur at a higher rate in women. Removal is a common, and mostly painless, procedure.

• Lentigines. A lentigo (or plural, lentigines) is a spot that is darker than the surrounding skin. They are typically brown in color and are more common in Caucasians.

• Seborrheic Keratoses are brown or black growths most often found on the chest and back, but also on the head. As they develop, they can appear more warty.

• Cherry Angiomas are small, bright red dots, usu-

Moles and Freckles and Skin Tags, Oh My! The past two decades have brought us a significant amount of education on skin cancer: who is at risk, what it looks like, and how to avoid it. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S., with more than 3 million people diagnosed each year. With increased awareness and screening habits, dermatologists are also seeing and treating patients concerned about more benign forms of skin lesions – either for medical reasons or vanity. As we grow older and are exposed to more sunlight and environmental factors, our skin changes in response to those exposures. Almost everyone has at least some presence of skin marks, such as freckles or moles, which may grow, multiply or change over time. While the vast majority of these marks are benign and will never be cancerous, it’s important to give them a closer look at least once every year. Below, we break down the list of the most common, non-cancerous skin marks and lesions, and which ones you should pay most attention to over time.

• Moles can appear almost anywhere on the skin,

either alone or in a group. They are typically brown or black in color, and first appear during childhood or the first 20 years of one’s life. The average adult has between 10 and 40 moles distributed across their body. Over time, moles can change slowly – becoming more raised and lighter in color, developing hairs, or even just disappearing entirely.

• Freckles are small brown spots usually found on the face and arms. They are extremely common, often hereditary, and not a health threat.

18 • March+April 2019 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

ally ranging in size from a pinpoint to a quarter inch in diameter. Some appear smooth and even with your skin, while others appear slightly raised. They most often grow on the torso, arms, legs and shoulders, and typically show up after age 30.

While moles are also often hereditary, they are more prone to structural changes as you age. Also, moles that are present at birth and ones that are atypical in size or shape (not perfectly round and flat) are more prone to developing cancerous cells in the future. If a dermatologist believes a mole needs to be evaluated or removed, he or she will first take a biopsy of it. This is a minor procedure resulting in a small tissue sample of the mole that will be examined under a microscope. If any cancerous cells are discovered, the entire mole will be removed along with the rim of normal skin surrounding it. Your physician will most likely want to follow up with you in a matter of weeks, to ensure the small wound is healing properly. Regardless of family history or a prior cancerous skin lesion, be mindful of all variations and changes in the status of your skin, across all areas of your body. At least every few months, with the help of a mirror and good lighting, examine your face, neck, chest, trunk, and the tops and undersides of your arms and hands. Check the front and back of your legs and feet, including the soles and areas between your toes. Also check your genital area and the area on and between your buttocks. Have someone help you check your scalp and behind your ears. See your primary care physician or dermatologist each year and expect them to do a thorough examination of your skin, exploring anything new, changed or irregular. v

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Packing What you need to pack for camp depends on the type of camp and how long you’ll be there. But remember that you won’t need 30 pairs of underwear, even if you’ll be there 30 days. If you’re going to have a long stay, your camp counselor will let you know how to handle laundry.

Some of the typical items that everyone needs for camp are:

Continued from page 8

Some sleep-away camps are coed, which means that there are both boys and girls at the camp. (They have separate cabins for sleeping, though.) Other camps are just for girls or just for boys, but often these all-girl and all-boy camps meet up for dances and parties. Usually, the camp mails out information to your family before you go, so you’ll know what to bring. You’ll also probably need to have your doctor fill out a health assessment for you so that the camp can be sure your shots are up-to-date and so that the camp counselors will know about any health problems you have. Just as with any vacation, you’ll need to pack a bag (or two) full of the clothes and other stuff you’ll need while you’re there. Food is generally provided, but you might need some extra money for snacks or other small expenses.

Who Takes Care of You at Camp? Camp counselors (who are usually grown-ups and older teens) will be on hand to lead activities and keep you safe, just like your parents would at home. For instance, if you scrape your knee, a camp counselor can help you get it cleaned up and bandaged. And if you get sick, a counselor could call a doctor and your parents. But best of all, camp counselors help kids have fun at camp. They organize the camp activities and set the schedule for days and evenings. Counselors and other grown-ups at camp are responsible for taking care of you, but campers can do a lot to take care of themselves. This means following the safety rules when it comes to activities, such as swimming and boating. You’ll want to take it seriously when a counselor tells you not to wander away from the group when you’re on a hike in the woods. Campers can do other smart things, such as remembering to put on sunscreen and bug spray. And camp counselors will be delighted if you make an effort to keep your cabin neat and throw trash in the trash can.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

sweatshirts and T-shirts shorts, jeans, and long pants swimsuits raincoat sneakers walking boots socks and underwear sheets and towels toothbrush and toothpaste shampoo, soap, and any other toiletries you may use sunscreen (at least SPF 15) bug spray (especially for mosquitoes) paper and pen to write to family and friends sports equipment (tennis racquet, swimming cap, goggles, etc.) • any medications you regularly take

It’s wise to label all your clothes and belongings because it’s easy to lose things at camp. If you leave something behind, it can be returned to you when your name is on it. And if you and your friend own the same beach towel, you’ll be able to tell which one is yours. It’s also nice to bring small reminders of home, such as photos of your family or your favorite pet. These will come in handy if you start to miss them.

Who Knew You’d Miss Home? With so much to do, it’s tough to be bored at camp. But you might find that you feel a little homesick. Homesickness is the feeling of missing your everyday familiar life, like your parents, your dog, your room, and maybe even your brother or sister. The good news is that you might be able to call home to talk with your family. There also may be a special day or weekend at camp when family members come to visit. In the meantime, email or text your family and friends. If you’re feeling down, it can help to talk with other campers or your counselors about your feelings. But it’s also okay if you don’t feel lonely because you’re too busy having fun. That’s the idea, after all. Have a great time at camp!. v

ItsYourMagazine.com • EC Parent Magazine • March+April 2019 • 21

Our FamilyChatter Challenge is simple— just do your best. Here are some easy questions that will hopefully inspire your family to engage in great conversations whenever, however, you can. Enjoy!

Live, Laugh, Love, and TALK TOGETHER! Do movies and TV shows influence your day-to-day thinking about life and social issues?

What is the grossest thing you can think of? Discuss why?

Parents: What are some of your biggest dreams for your children? Explain in detail why.

What is your favorite word? What do you like about it? When have you used it recently?

What is your favorite sport or game? If you could change one rule, what would you change? Why?

Is your family a dog or cat type of family? What are some other pets you’d like to own if you were allowed to?

Parents: Are you still friends with anyone from that time in your life?

What kinds of lies do your friends tell their parents? Why do you think they lie?

At what age do you think kids fall in love?

How would the world be different if animals could talk? What do you think your pets would say?

Parents: Do you plan on retiring? If so, when? How do you feel about it?

Name two things that would be fun to do as a family on the weekend. Pick one and do it. Have fun living life—together!

What is the hardest thing about being a kid? What do you look forward to about being an adult? Ask your parents questions about their childhoods. What did they love and hate about being a kid?

Keep the Conversation Going with Follow-up Questions: Interesting. What else can you tell me about that? o Now what are you going to do? o No way! Can you tell me more? o Seriously? Then what happened? o How do you feel about what happened? o How does this make you feel? o What’s your next step? o

Th e Ear ly L e ar n in g Co alitio n o f th e Emer al d Coast's mi ssi on i s to su ppo rt th e su cce ss o f e ve r y ch ild an d th e i r fami l y thr ough qu ality ear ly edu catio n an d car e.

Enroll in Florida’s FREE VoluntaryCWhei lpdr Co vairdee Qf rueees trieosnosu? r c e a n d r e f e r r a l s e r v i c e s t o l o c a l f a m i l i e s regarding childcare. Prekindergarten Parent Line: (850) 833-9333 Edu ation Progra Ear ly L ear n in g Co aliti on of the Eme r al d Coa 113 0 N Eglin Par kway, Shal i mar , FL 32579 (8 5 0 ) 8 3 3 -3 6 2 7 www.el c-ec.o rg

Get ready, set a time, and read!

Voluntary Prekindergarten

Florida offe rs fr ee pr eki n der gar ten fo r all 4 -ye ar-o lds re gardle ss o f family income.

At must the Early Children l i ve i n Learning Fl o r i da an dCoalition be 4 ye ars of o ldthe o n oEmerald r be fo re Coast, our mission is to support September 1 of early th e cu reducation r en t year to and be e ligible If th e ir the birthbooks day fallsand the activities chosen for quality care.. Enjoy from Fe bruary 2 th r o u gh S eptembe r 1, yo u may wait to e n ro ll yo u r child the followi n g year wh en th ey are 5 .

the success of every child and their families through this edition to support your child’s literacy skills.

DUCK & GOOSE 1, 2, 3

Apply online by vi si ti n g: www.familyse r vi ces.fl o r i daear l yl e arn in g.co BymTad

Hills, ISBN-13: 978-0-375-85621-1

Taking time to read to your infant can be a special bonding moment and can create moments of learning at just the words that are on the pages, but it’s also how your you ask, even though they may not respond. This sturdy board book gives bright illustrations to help you and your infant count from one to ten.

R e se ar ch sh o ws that c hildren who parti ci pate i n h i gh -qu al i ty the same time. When you read to your infant, it’s not pr e kin de rgarten pr ograms ar e be tte r pr e pare d fo r sch oo l and sounds, the faces you make, and the questions de ve l o p l i fe l o ng soci al an d e mo ti on al ski lvoice l s.

ACTIVITY: As you explore this book together with your infant, take time to look at the illustrations as well Th e Early Le arn in g Co alitio n of the Eme r al d Coast's mi ssi on i s to as su the words in order If your infant does not respond, pause between asking and answering a ppo rt th e su cce ss oto f eask ve ryquestions. chi l d and the i r fami l y thr ough question. pausing, modeling what a conversation is and you are giving your infant time to think about qu ality eBy arly e du catioyou n anare d car e. and process your words. Talk about how goose has one leg up and one leg down as you touch your infant’s leg and label it a leg. This will help expand your child’s vocabulary and understanding. Simple added moments Child Care Qu s t i o n scan ? when reading aebook make the time you spend with your infant even more rewarding and educational. We provide free resource and referral services to local families regarding childcare.

I AM SMALL

By PEmma a r e n t Dodd, L i n e : ( 8ISBN-13: 5 0 ) 8 3 3978-0-545-68379-1 -9333

oll in Florida’s EE Voluntary ekindergarten

ation Progra

Toddlers can be labeled as anyone from 1 year to 3 years of age. This amazing time frame in a child’s life is full of exploration, figuring out who they are and the world around them. This is a time for growing indeEarly Le ar ni ng Coal i ti on of the Eme r al d Coast pendence, even though assistance may still be needed, and toddlers may know what they want but may not 113 0 N Egl i n P ar kway, S hal i mar , FL 32579 be able to verbalize their needs. This book reminds us that in a world that is big, fast, and hard at times to (8 5 0 ) 833-3627 fit in, every child should feelc-ec.o that rg they are the most important thing to someone. www.el

ACTIVITY: Take time—two words that hold so much weight! Find time with your toddler daily to do an “I love you; you mean the world to me” ritual. This can be as simple as a short phrase you say in the morning, before you are going to be apart, and/or before bed. Be creative and add hand gestures or even butterfly kisses to have some fun. The most important thing is that, whatever you choose to do, you use it consistently with your toddler. You are their world; take time to remind them that they are your world too.

WHAT SHOULD DANNY DO?

By Ganit and Adir Levy, ISBN-13: 978-0-692-84838-8

This book introduces the power of choice to our preschool learners. This interactive book gives the reader a choice in what Danny should do throughout his day. With each choice there are positive and negative outcomes that Danny will enjoy or must overcome. Having the power of choice is a big responsibility, and understanding the consequences of a choice can be difficult to understand and own. This book is a great tool to help preschoolage children understand the power and outcomes of a choice.

ACTIVITY: As you read this book with your preschooler, ask questions starting with why, how, or what if. This will help your child reflect and problem solve about their choice and the consequence of that decision. Throughout your day, give your child acceptable choices. Acceptable choices are choices for which you are okay with whichever choice the child chooses. This could be as simple as asking, “Do you want to put your shoes on yourself or with my help?” Give acceptable choices for your preschooler multiple times each day and reflect on the consequences of their decisions. 1130 N EGLIN PARKWAY, SHALIMAR, FL 32579, (805) 833-3627 | WWW.ELC-EC.ORG

By Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D.

Ten Tips for Clearing Out Clutter Start small, think outside the box, and get it done! Fall and winter encourage us to collect more stuff. We stock up on canned goods and firewood. We give and get mountains of holiday goodies and gifts. By the time spring arrives, we’re eager to feel a sense of openness and light in our homes once again. You don’t need an expensive whole-house makeover to refresh your emotional energy. Clearing out clutter offers a quick and inexpensive mood boost. Here’s how to do it.

Start small. I f just the thought of sorting and organizing

leaves you dizzy and short of breath, take baby steps. Tackle one drawer, corner, or closet at a time. You’ll gain momentum as your space opens up.

Sort smart. P ut like items together in one location so that

you can see how many you have. If you buy in bulk or hang on to practical items (like half-full bottles of shampoo), you probably have two, three, or more of the same thing. Get rid of worn-out items and duplicates. Use up or consolidate. If your most-loved objects are not the most-often-used, they should be. Toss threadbare towels and use the plush, luxury linens. Life is short.

Let go of guilt. D o you keep items only because you’d feel guilty if you got rid of them? I’m talking about your great-aunt’s Hummel figurine collection and the bridesmaid dress you wore to your sister’s wedding in 1998. Your loved ones wouldn’t want you to feel obligated to keep items that overcrowd your closets and stress you out. Give yourself permission to let go.

Test date. E ven if you have only one bread machine or tennis racquet, it may be time to give it up. Discard or donate items you haven’t used in more than a year. Next time you need a specialized gadget or one-time-only outfit, borrow or rent instead of buying. You’ll save money and avoid storing things you rarely use. Sell out. I f you don’t mind haggling, have a yard sale. Set reasonable prices and give discounts to customers who buy several items. Your goal is to get rid of things, not to get rich. Sell specialized, more expensive items online through Craigslist or eBay. Collectors and niche consumers spend more than yard-sale scavengers.

Donate discards. L ist unwanted items at Freecycle.org or take them to a local thrift shop. Many charities will pick up heavy Continued on page 27

24 • March+April 2019 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Cut out this page. Then cut it down the middle. He takes his half, she takes hers. Keep it simple. Don’t keep score. Just enjoy life and each other— as often as you remember!

Let’s face it, most of us could use a little jump start now and then when it comes to relationships. That’s why we’ve included this section. Simple acts of kindness are a great way to say, “I care about you.” Date nights are great, but when life gets busy, sometimes all that’s necessary are little reminders!

10 WAYS to sh w

R E H y u care Spend time talking through family hardships. Remind her how much you care about her and your relationship. Set specific goals with her to achieve together for each year. Apologize when you’re wrong and be quick to forgive her as well. Try to find fun, new things you can do together. Gladly run errands for her when you’re able to. Remember anniversaries and other dates and events that are special. Show your love and affection for her—even in public.

Challenge yourself to complete all 10 ideas in each issue. Don’t just focus on the easy ones!

Parent with her—be good examples for your children in what you do and say. Help clean up after dinner.

ItsYourMagazine.com • EC Parent Magazine • March+April 2019 • 25

Cut out this page. Then cut it down the middle. He takes his half, she takes hers. Keep it simple. Don’t keep score. Just enjoy life and each other— as often as you remember!

10 WAYS to sh w

M I H y u care Tell him you love him and still find him attractive. Give him a back or a shoulder rub after a long day at work. Don’t criticize him in front of others—keep his dignity intact. Help foster teachable moments with him and his children. Encourage him in his goals or hobbies when you see he needs it. Don’t expect him to do projects beyond his natural capabilities. Try to understand his feelings—even when you disagree with him.

Challenge yourself to complete all 10 ideas in each issue. Don’t just focus on the easy ones!

Organize a romantic night! . lean out his car and leave him an C “I love you” note or candy. Have a long meaningful conversation.

26 • March+April 2019 • EC Parent Magazine

Continued from page 24

items, such as furniture, for free. Even obsolete electronics can be recycled. Go to Earth911.org to find recycling sites by zip code.

Pitch paper. P aper clutter can be overwhelming, especially if it represents decisions and actions you’ve delayed. Finish any unfinished business. Store phone numbers in your address book, pay bills, and file tax documents. Then get shredding. If you have too much to shred on your own, find a local document-destruction company. Most offer by-the-box or per-pound rates, and they are bonded and insured, so you don’t have to worry about identity theft. Think outside the box. D etermine what storage containers you need only after you’ve whittled down your belongings. Check your closets, cupboards and garage for bags, bins and boxes. Re-use old containers or raid the cardboard recycling bin behind the neighborhood strip mall. You don’t have to spend a fortune on decorative hatboxes to corral clutter.

Label well. Th e time you take to clearly label boxes and bins

will pay off later. Color code and write big so that it’s easy to identify contents at a glance. You should be able to find last year’s tax records without sifting through school supplies, family photos, and take-out menus. Bonus: If you label things right, other family members will be able to find what they need without your assistance.

Scrap it. D on’t throw out the memories with the mess. Take pictures of kids’ artwork and store them electronically. Put small mementos—like your tickets to The Lion King on Broadway or the program from your son’s sixth-grade graduation—in a scrapbook or memory box. Happy memories are the best treasures. v

Heidi Smith Luedtke is a personality psychologist and reformed pack rat. She is the author of Detachment Parenting.

By Myrna Beth Haskell

Heart-Healthy Eating for Teens General Guidelines for Training Your Children to Make Wise Food Choices It was the fall of 1978 when my fourteen-year-old friend and I decided to join America’s newfound fitness craze. We devised a plan during sixth-period lunch. We would bike clear across town without stopping. Here was the problem: fast-food restaurants galore along the way. My memory tells me we stopped at McDonald’s, Dunkin’ Donuts, and a hotdog joint before landing at the Caldor parking lot. After twelve miles, a large order of fries, two Bavarian cream donuts, and an over-stuffed chili dog, we gave each other a high-five to celebrate our accomplishment. I get indigestion just thinking about it! For decades, teens have been devouring fast food and salty snacks as part of their daily diets. Let’s be honest. How many fourteenyear-olds do you know who opt for carrot sticks over a handful of salty fries? Is it hopeless, or can parents suggest healthy options that their teens will actually enjoy?

General Guidelines for Healthy Eating Howard M. Shapiro, M.D., a weight-loss specialist and New York Times best-selling author of the Picture Perfect Weight Loss series, urges teens to avoid certain foods: “Limit foods high in cholesterol, saturated fat, and trans-fat, such as fatty meats, egg yolks, and foods prepared with hydrogenated oils and shortenings.” Shapiro suggests that teens include some “good fat” in their diets: olives, avocado, nuts, seeds, and olive or canola oil. Healthy eating also includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, and soy foods help to reduce the risk

of heart disease. Shapiro says, “Include a couple of servings a day of any of the following: tofu, soy milk, soy cheese, or soy yogurt.” Soy protein powder can be added to shakes or smoothies as well—an added health benefit for these popular teen drinks. Teens might also try veggie or turkey burgers (instead of beef) and veggie sausages (instead of pork). Healthy eating habits also have to do with eating schedules. Lauren Graf, RD, CDN, a nutritionist for the Department of Pediatric Nephrology and the Pediatric Heart Healthy Program at the Montefiore Medical Center in New York City, advises, “Teenagers should eat multiple, small meals throughout the day. They should also eat a good breakfast because it will help them do better on exams.” Graf also warns about eating heavy meals too close to bedtime, a problem for many teens who are involved in activities and return home late. Eating heavy meals late at night can lead to disrupted sleep and an inability to “work off” the calories.

Encourage the Good Stuff This all sounds reasonable, but how do parents actually get their teens to buy into all of this healthy eating when a bag of sour-creamand-onion chips is handy? Furthermore, if both parents are working outside the home and teens have evening activities, it’s hard to abide by healthy eating schedules and choices. Graf instructs parents to limit the amount of processed foods on hand. She suggests, “Stock up on frozen fruits. These won’t go bad, and teens can use them as toppings on frozen yogurt, for instance.” She continues, “Parents should be committed to having a healthy lifestyle themselves and should model healthy eating. Believe it or not, this will eventually click with your teenagers.” Continued on page 31

28 • March+April 2019 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Dirt Cups YOU NEED Large box of instant chocolate pudding and ingredients to make pudding Oreo cookies Red Velvet cake mix and ingredients to bake the cake Chocolate sprinkles 18 gummy worms

• • • • •

• Hand mixer • Mixing bowl • Cutting board and sharp

knife Measuring cup 9x13-inch cake pan 6 clear 9 oz. cups and spoons Spoon

• • • •

DIRECTIONS Bake the cake in a 9x13-inch pan according to package instructions. Make chocolate pudding according to package instructions. Use the knife and cutting board to roughly chop the Oreos into 1/2 inch pieces. Cut the cake into cubes—about 1/3 of the cake will make 6 dirt cups. Spoon 2 tablespoons of pudding into the bottom of each cup. Add a layer (about 2 tablespoons) chopped Oreos. Place 2 gummy worms down the inside wall of each cup—so that they are visible from the outside of the cup. Add a layer of cubed cake followed by another layer of Oreos and top with chocolate pudding. (Note: 3 cups of pudding should be enough for 6 dirt cups.) Top the pudding with chocolate sprinkles and a third gummy worm. Keep chilled until ready to eat.

• • • • • • • • •

Apples and Dip YOU NEED Apples Nutella Marshmallow cream Sharp knife

• • • •

• Spoon • Small bowl • Plate

DIRECTIONS Spoon Nutella into the bowl (about ½ cup). Spoon 3-4 dollops of marshmallow cream on top of Nutella. Core the apples and cut into wedges. Arrange apple wedges on the plate. Dip a wedge of apple into the Nutella and cream and eat!

• • • •

Here’s a tasty way to get your children excited about eating more fruit!

30 • March+April 2019 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Continued from page 28

Quick tips: • If strapped for time, prepare healthy casseroles on weekends, then freeze for later in the week.

• Pack a snack. Don’t drive through and take out. • Opt for fresh or frozen foods over packaged and

“I only keep healthy snacks at home. My daughter learned to like celery and peanut butter. She’ll also sprinkle cinnamon on apple slices.” —Susan Cerulli School nurse at Haviland Middle School, Hyde Park, NY

canned.

Snacks for Active Teens The food has to look and taste good or your teen won’t eat it. Since many teens are constantly on the run, healthy snacks play an important role, and easy preparation is a must. Healthy snack alternatives suggested by Dr. Shapiro:

• Soy chips with guacamole or hummus instead of potato chips and sour-cream dip

• Whole grain crackers and peanut butter instead of a bagel with cream cheese

• Roasted pumpkin seeds instead of a bag of milkchocolate-covered pretzels

Graf says teens will be pleased to hear that “Dark chocolate is actually good for the heart. It provides antioxidants and doesn’t have the levels of sugar and fat found in milk or white chocolate.” Graf also suggests slathering hummus or mustard on sandwiches in lieu of mayonnaise.

Strawberry Milk Smoothie Recipe* • 1 cup low-fat cold milk • 1 cup strawberries (fresh or frozen) • 1 Tbsp. sugar • 1/3 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt • 1 tsp lemon juice • ½ cup crushed ice (more if using fresh berries) Blend all ingredients in a blender for 2 minutes. *Presented by Haviland Middle School “Life and Workforce Skills” class.

Myrna Beth Haskell is an award-winning author, columnist, and feature writer. Her work has appeared in national and regional publications across the U.S. as well as internationally (www.myrnahaskell. com). She is also co-founder and senior editor of SANCTUARY magazine (www.sanctuary-magazine.com).

Peep Pops INGREDIENTS Bunny or egg Peeps Candy melts, any color or flavor—1-1 ½ cups for 12 Peeps Candy sprinkles

• • •

• Plastic forks • Microwaveable measuring cup • Plastic knife • Paper plates

DIRECTIONS Push a plastic fork into the bottom of each Peep. Place the candy melts into the measuring cup and melt according to package instructions. Let the melted candy cool slightly until it is the consistency of peanut butter. (Note: if the melted candy is too hot, it will melt the Peep.) Use a plastic knife to spread melted candy over the Peep. Immediately hold the candy-covered Peep over a paper plate and cover with sprinkles. Place on another paper plate to cool and harden.

• • • • •

It’s difficult to improve on Peeps, but we’re taking a stab at it with these Peep Pops!

Tic-Tac-Toe Snack YOU NEED Large carrot Cucumber Square bite-sized crackers Easy Cheese, any flavor

• • • •

• Large plate • Cutting board and sharp knife Potato peeler

•

DIRECTIONS Use the potato peeler to peel long strips from the carrot—4 strips for each serving. Cut the cucumber into circles—6 circles for each serving Using the Easy Cheese, draw an “X” on each cracker—6 crackers for each serving. Use the carrot strips to make on the plate lines for playing Tic-Tac-Toe. Play Tic-Tac-Toe using the cucumbers as “O”s and the crackers and cheese for “X”s. Eat as you play.

• • • • •

It seems like you can never really win in tic-tac-toe, but now—win, lose, or tie, you’ll enjoy playing more than ever!

32 • March+April 2019 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Rainbow Pudding INGREDIENTS 2 Packages Sugar-Free Vanilla Pudding Red, Yellow, Blue, and Green Food Coloring

• •

• 6 Disposable Plastic Pastry Bags (or one and wash out bag between colors) Clear Plastic Cups

•

DIRECTIONS Prepare vanilla pudding as directed on box. Separate into six bowls for mixing. Add the desired amount of food coloring into each bowl to create all six colors of the rainbow and mix well. Transfer pudding into pastry bags. Pipe pudding into clear cups in rainbow order.

• • • • •

3005 E. Cervantes St., Pensacola, FL 32504 805.733.9983 | facebook.com/spyrosagrb

April Fool’s Joke Jar MATERIALS 1-quart covered container Yellow adhesive-backed paper (such as shelf paper or Contact paper) Permanent markers Scissors

• • • •

• Colored paper or card stock • Pens or pencils • Circle template or 2- to 3-inch round lids Optional: joke book

•

INSTRUCTIONS Use a pen or pencil to draw 2-3 circles on the yellow adhesivebacked paper. Use permanent markers to turn the circles on yellow paper into laughing, silly emoji faces. Also write the words “Joke Jar” on the yellow paper. Cut out the circles and cut around the words. Decorate the covered container by peeling and sticking the adhesive-backed words and emojis to the container’s sides and lid. Cut the colored paper or card stock into pieces that are 2-3 inches square. Write jokes on the paper squares, fold them in half to hide the jokes, and place them in the jar. Place the jar on your dinner table or in an area where your family gathers. Take turns drawing a paper out of the jar and reading the jokes aloud.

• • • • • •

Garden Rocks MATERIALS Smooth 4- to 5-inch rock, washed and dried Variety of sizes of craft paint brushes Variety of colors of craft paint

• • •

• Paper plates • Water and paper towels for clean-up Covered work surface

•

INSTRUCTIONS Place the rock on a paper plate. Using a 1- to 2-inch paint brush, paint a base coat to cover the rock. Let dry. Squeeze small quantities of paint onto a paper place and use paint brushes to decorate over the base coat on the rock. Simple shapes or words associated with a garden work great. Let dry. Place your rock in the garden as a decoration or to label plants that you have planted.

• • • •

Love your garden? Love to craft? Here’s a cute little craft that goes hand-in-hand with both.

34 • March+April 2019 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Seed Starter Garden MATERIALS 12 2- to 3-inch plastic Easter eggs that open into halves Paper egg carton Seeds for growing herbs or flowers Potting soil

• • • •

• Spoon • Craft paint, any color • 1-inch sponge brush • Paper plate • Scissors

INSTRUCTIONS Cut off the lid and flap for closing the lid from the paper egg carton. Squeeze craft paint onto a paper plate and use the sponge brush to paint the inside of the bottom of the egg carton. Let dry, then repeat to paint the outside of the bottom of the egg carton. Let dry completely. Separate the halves of the plastic eggs, and use the longer halves. Spoon potting soil into each egg half and plant a seed in each egg. Lightly water the seeds and soil. Place the potted seed in the painted egg carton. Set on a tray or plate in a sunny location and watch seeds grow.

• • • • •

Tote Bags MATERIALS Solid-colored tote bag (9x13inches or larger) Variety of colored scraps of cotton fabric Variety of colors of fabric paint

• • •

in paint-writer bottles Fabric and paper scissors Hot glue gun and glue sticks Pencil Scratch paper

• • • •

INSTRUCTIONS Draw a simple design on scratch paper. Ideas include food items you might purchase at a store, and basic shapes such as hearts or stars (cookie cutters make great templates). Cut out shapes from the paper. Use a pencil to draw around the shapes onto the wrong side of the fabric you want to use. Cut out shapes. Arrange the shapes on the outside of the tote bag. A couple inches at a time, hot glue the edges of the fabric shapes to the tote bag. To avoid contact with the hot glue, use the point of the paper scissors to press the surfaces together. Use the fabric paint writers to outline the edge of each shape and add any details, such as dots or lines. Let dry completely. Use your tote when shopping, going to the park, etc.

• • • • • •

36 • March+April 2019 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

TEEN TALK dvice from Helpful A er! to Anoth One Teen

SPRING BREAK Although it isn’t the same for everyone, spring break approaching is very scary for high school seniors. We are excited, don’t get me wrong. No one would protest having a week off from school. However, with all of the projects, tests, and assignments due before we go on break, there are times when I’ve wished that the break wouldn’t come so fast. One of the biggest problems teenagers have with their parents is that adults tend to believe that we do not have much in our lives to stress about. It is true that we are not stressing about the things our parents get stressed about, such as paying bills and taking care of us. However, we do feel pressure from our teachers, parents, and ourselves to perform at our best and maintain good grades in school. As I am in the IB program, it is much easier for my work to stress me out, considering there is so much of it all at once. It makes teenagers feel better when parents can sympathize with us instead of making it seem like it’s a competition of who has the

most stress—and we’re losing. Here are some tips for parents to help their teenagers: ask your kids if they need any help with their work, do a face mask with them, make their favorite meal, run them a bath, or do whatever you can to help ease some of the tension school can bring. Remind them that their grades aren’t the end of the world as long as they are trying their hardest; but understand that if they hold themselves to a higher standard, they will still worry. The best thing is to help them still have some wonderful moments while the weeks before break come and bring a lot of work. It means a lot to us to be able to rely on our parents to see our struggles and do little things for us. We appreciate and love our parents, even if we don’t always show it. v

Nia

S ENIOR, AGE 17

Resource Guide

Looking for fun, adventure, and great food? Experience life to the fullest by discovering new tastes and fun-filled experiences—the Emerald Coast has it all. Enjoy! Crestview | Destin | FWB | Gulf Breeze | Navarre | Niceville/Valparaiso | Pensacola GULFARIUM MARINE ADVENTURE PARK 1010 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, FWB, 243-9046 Delight in watching dolphins leap and sea lions play during spectacular shows! Enjoy educational exhibits and beautiful gulf views.

THE TRACK

Local Attractions Tickets BIG KAHUNA’S WATER PARK 1007 Hwy 98 E, Destin, 837-4061 With more than 40 water attractions and an adventure park, Big Kahuna’s offers something for everyone. Big Kahuna’s has been Destin’s one and only water park for more than 25 years!

GATOR BEACH AT FUDPUCKER’S 20001 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, 654-4200 Gator Beach gives you the chance to see more than 80 live alligators in an up-close and personal environment. You’ll not only be able to see the gators but feed them as well!

1125 Hwy 98 E, Destin, 654-4668 The Track Family Fun Park features the southeast’s premier go-carting and family fun centers including The Track Family Fun Parks in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee; Gulf Shores, Alabama; Destin, Florida; and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, as well as Fat Daddy’s Arcades in Destin, Florida; FWB, Florida; and Orange Beach, Alabama. Each of our five parks features The Track’s signature three-and-a-half-story elevated go-cart ride along with a vibrant lineup of family attractions ranging from family go-cart tracks, Fat Daddy’s Arcades, and thrill rides to miniature golf courses, kids’ country rides, and more.

Five Flags Speedway 7451 Pine Forest Rd, Pensacola, 944-8400 Five Flags Speedway is a paved half-mile (0.8 km) auto-racing oval. It opened in 1953 and is located on Pine Forest Road. It is christened after Pensacola’s

38 • March+April 2019 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

nickname, “City of Five Flags.” The speedway runs several local classes during the regular racing season (March–October). These classes include Super Late Models, Pro Late Models, Super Stocks, Sportsman, and Bombers. The races are usually held on Friday nights bi-weekly. The track also hosts many regional touring series.

Gulf Breeze Zoo 5701 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze, 932-2229 The Gulf Coast area’s awardwinning Gulf Breeze Zoo is home to more than 900 native and exotic animals. The zoo offers many hands-on animal encounters and kids activities perfect for field trips, family day trips, and exciting birthday parties.

Maximum Magic Dinner Show 1318 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, FWB, 424-5125 Illusionist of the year Noah Wells presents Maximum Magic, Destin’s only magic show, with mind-blowing illusions, hilarious comedy, special effects, unbelievable mentalism, and more!

National Naval Aviation Museum 1750 Radford Blvd, Ste C, Pensacola, 452-3604 The National Naval Aviation Museum, formerly known as the National Museum of Naval

Aviation and the Naval Aviation Museum, is a military and aerospace museum located at Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida. The museum was established December 14, 1962, with the initial facility located in a cramped 8,500-square-foot building on the air station that had been erected during World War II, and it was dedicated in June 1963.

Pensacola Ice Flyers 201 E Gregory St, Pensacola, 466-3111 The Pensacola Ice Flyers are a professional ice-hockey team of the Southern Professional Hockey League. The team played their first season in 2009–2010. Home games are played at the Pensacola Bay Center, previously home to the ECHL’s Pensacola Ice Pilots from 1996 until their folding in 2008.

Pensacola Lighthouse 2081 Radford Blvd, Pensacola, 393-1561 Climb 177 steps up the historic Pensacola lighthouse for one of the most beautiful views on the Gulf Coast. Built in 1859, the lighthouse is located onboard the NAS Pensacola. The top of the tower offers stunning views of Pensacola Pass (where Pensacola Bay meets the Gulf of Mexico), three historic forts, the Pensacola skyline, and the

E M E R A L D COA S T PA R E N T • L O C A L AT T R AC T I O N S historic Navy Yard. The fully restored Keepers’ Quarters, built in 1869, is home to the Richard C. Callaway museum, which houses numerous exhibits on local history and the lighthouse itself.

in the heart of the city’s entertainment district. Enjoy exhibits that you will find extraordinary, unusual, shocking, and possibly true to life!

Pensacola Museum of Art

6709 Pensacola Blvd, Pensacola, 505-0800 Sam’s Fun City is family owned and operated by Richard and Terry Sanfilippo. The park is named after the Sanfilippo’s daughter, Samantha. In 1996, after a successful career in environmental science and engineering, Richard redirected his energy toward creating a family-focused business in Pensacola, Florida. After a significant planning period, the first phase of the park opened in September 2000. The park has continued to grow over the years by adding bumper boats and mini golf in 2001, phase one of an arcade in 2003, a water park in 2005, and an expanded arcade in 2008. With more than 40 rides, slides, and attractions, Sam’s Fun City is the largest fun park on the central Gulf Coast.

407 S Jefferson St, Pensacola, 432-6247 The Pensacola Museum of Art is the only art museum in the city of P e nsacola, Florida. It was founded in 1954 by a group of women from the American Association of University Women. These determined women combined their efforts to create an art center that would exhibit traveling shows, offer art classes for both children and adults, and provide meeting space for members of the community as well as create a forum for lectures, films, and other cultural presentations. They joined forces with others in the community who shared this same vision and formed the Pensacola Art Association.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! 9907 Front Beach Rd, Panama City, 230-6113 Explore the odd and unusual at this family friendly attraction

Sam’s Fun City

SKYZONE 5007 N Davis Hwy, Pensacola, 500-1663 We’re always working to invent epic new ways to play, gather, and compete. Even though we’re the originators of wall-to-wall aerial action, we never stand still. We’ve been voted the number one “out of the box” workout and the “best party ever.” We’re dedicated to providing you with the pure joy that comes from flying. We are sky lovers, thrill seekers, and people who believe that jumping is freedom. We believe fitness can be fun and play can be smart. We are healthy and bursting with energy. We fly high and keep it safe. We are Sky Zone.

Wild Willy’s Adventure Park

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1306 Miracle Strip Pkwy, FWB, 400-3300 Wild Willy’s has a number of different attractions sure to make everyone’s day!

WonderWorks 9910 Front Beach Rd, Panama City, 249-7000 WonderWorks is an amazing attraction where scientific principles and fun come together to provide an unrivaled educational experience!

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L O C A L AT T R AC T I O N S • E M E R A L D COA S T PA R E N T

Outdoors Adventures Unlimited 8974 Tomahawk Landing Rd, Milton, 623-6197 Discover the fun of outdoor adventure at Northwest Florida’s premier recreation center! Situated along the secluded Coldwater Creek, experience nature’s beauty. Relax with us— you’ll be glad you did!

Coldwater Gardens Glamping Experience 7009 Creek Stone Rd, Milton, 426-1300 Situated on a gentle slope overlooking a pine savanna, our tents are outfitted with amenities that make your experience relaxing. Each tent is equipped with top glamping amenities including a queen-size bed, minifridge, coffee maker, outdoor shower, and charcoal grill.

DESTIN HELICOPTER BEACH TOURS 34859 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, 424-5125 View the beautiful Emerald Coast from above on a thrilling helicopter tour!

Horseback Trail Rides 613 S County Hwy 393, Destin, 208-3114 Located close to the Destin beaches, this stable offers trail rides and RV space. With 13,800 acres of state forest, there is plenty of riding to fill up your day.

Panama City Beach Helicopter Tours 15726 Front Beach Rd, Panama City, 230-2080 View the beautiful Panama City Beach coastline from above on an amazing helicopter tour!

Pensacola Aerial Beach Tour

Deep Sea Fishing Party Boat

4145 Jerry Maygarden Rd, Pensacola, 346-4230 Our Piper Saratoga has six seats— plenty of room for the entire family! Choose from a romantic Sunset Champagne Beach Tour or an adventurous Shark Patrol, and make some wonderful memories.

102 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 837-7095 Come fish with one of the oldest and largest fishing fleets on the Emerald Coast, and fish the beautiful unspoiled waters of the Gulf of Mexico!

Zipline Canopy Tour

7 Calhoun Ave, Destin, 978-3060 Your adventure starts out at the Destin Marina as an experienced guide takes you to the dolphin “hangout.” After exploring, the guide will allow you to adventure out on your own as well!

8974 Tomahawk Landing Rd, Milton, 889-2180 Fly through the air on a series of up to 14 ziplines topped off by a flyover of Coldwater Creek on a 900-foot stretch of cables!

Watersports Big Kahuna’s Water Park Aquatic Adventures Pontoon Rental 5915 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City, 235-8051 Captain your own boat from the still waters of Grand Lagoon just minutes from Shell Island, where you can pull up on the beach!

Blackwater River Tubing Trip 6974 Deaton Bridge Rd, Milton, 623-0235 Enjoy one of the last true wilderness getaways in Florida while tubing the Blackwater River! One of the purest sandbottom rivers in the nation, this river boasts clear, spring-fed water with a walking-speed current that is safe and fun for all ages!

Blue Angels Practice Cruise 400 Quietwater Beach Rd, Pensacola, 898-9002 Watch true American heroes blaze across the skies with their amazing maneuvers and fearless speed. Enjoy the air-show maneuvers from the comfort of a 63-foot catamaran at the center of the show!

Destin Crab Island Waverunner Dolphin Tour

Destin Sailing Cruise Aboard the Daniel Webster Clements 116 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 837-2222 The Daniel Webster Clements is great for a day or evening sailing cruise and is equipped with two bathrooms and a deck that holds 37 guests. See dolphins and beautiful sights along the East Pass and Destin Harbor. Each cruise offers complimentary beer, wine, and sodas.

Destin X Jet Ski & Waverunner Rentals 214 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 866-359-3114 Customers are launched from the harbor, and all the equipment is in great condition!

DESTIN X PARASAILING 214 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 866-359-3114 Parasailing is one of Destin’s top activities and offers family fun for all ages. Daily departures are available during the spring and summer, weather permitting.

Destin X Pontoon Boat Rental 214 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 866-359-3114 Our pontoon rentals offer great prices and include fuel!

Discover Scuba Diving in Panama City Beach, 106 Thomas Dr, Panama City, 230-8006 The class includes classroom instruction followed by a fun beach dive!

Dolphin and Snorkel Excursion Aboard the Sea Screamer 2 3605 Thomas Dr, Panama City, 235-3000 This is one of the best ways to see beautiful Shell Island under and over water! Snorkel gear

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and instruction are included in your trip.

Dolphin Cruise Aboard the Original Sea Blaster 34 Harbor Blvd, Kiosk 60G, Destin, 654-6888 Join the fun, and come search the emerald green waters of the Gulf of Mexico along the sugar-white sand beaches of De stin, Florida, for playful dolphins!

Dolphin Sail Aboard the Privateer Catamaran 3901 Thomas Dr, Panama City, 769-3866 Listen to tropical music as you enjoy a complimentary wine, sangria, cold beer, or non-alcoholic beverage onboard Panama City Beach’s best sunset cruise!

Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise Aboard the Original Sea Screamer 3605 Thomas Dr, Panama City, 235-3000 The Sea Screamer offers exciting day cruises and breathtaking sunset cruises to enjoy. Journey by beautiful Shell Island and the State Park jetties, then go for a refreshing ride alongside the world’s most beautiful beaches and resorts.

Dolphin Watch and Destin History Cruise 102 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 837-7095 Family owned and operated, the Dolphin Watch and Destin History Cruise is an ideal way to enjoy a relaxing one-anda-half-hour narrated cruise watching dolphins play in their natural habitat. The boat features a glass-bottom viewing area, snack bar, restrooms, and an airconditioned/heated cabin.

Fine Dining Dinner and Dancing Cruise 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, 650-2519 The Solaris is the area’s only fine dining entertainment yacht. The yacht features fresh gulf seafood, prime beef, and much more, all prepared in a full-service galley. Live entertainment and a full bar are available to enhance the experience.

The Hydrojet—the World’s Largest Jet Ski! 102 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 865-3557 Known as the worlds largest jet ski, the Hydrojet can really move!

E M E R A L D COA S T PA R E N T • L O C A L AT T R AC T I O N S Come get wet and have a blast with your friends and family!

Pontoon Boat Rental with Luther’s Watersports

INSHORE FISHING WITH 30A GUIDE SERVICE

200 & 202 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 650-8733 Pontoon boats are an easy way to enjoy the beautiful Choctawhatchee Bay in Destin. All the boats are in great shape, reliable, and clean. Cruise around the bay, or just relax at crab island—it’s up to you!

105 Hogtown Bayou Ln, Destin, 699-1694 No trip to Santa Rosa Beach is complete without an inshore fishing trip. The Choctawhatchee Bay hosts a number of different species of fish. Trips in the bay are great for everyone from children and first-timers to the avid fisherman.

Offshore Fishing with Fish Now Charters 5325 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City, 235-8051 Enjoy the scenic beauty of Panama City Beach as you and your group travel out to open water. Feel the heart-pounding thrill and awesome power of pulling a gigantic catch up from the depths.

Panama City Beach Pirate Cruise Aboard the Sea Dragon 5325 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City, 234-7400 Come aboard Panama City Beach’s only pirate adventure cruise. Cruise away into the fantasy world of friendly swashbucklers and spirited pirates aboard an 85-foot pirate ship.

Pensacola Beach Dolphin Cruise 400 Quietwater Beach Rd, #16, Pensacola, 898-9002 Cruise aboard the 63-foot openair covered catamaran Portofino I, and spy dolphins, birds, and the other marine life playing in their natural habitat along the protected Gulf Islands National Seashore.

Private Six-Pack Deep-Sea Fishing with Reel Deal Charters 210 E Highway 98, Destin, 424-5125 Come aboard a charter that offers more than 15 years of experience fishing off the Florida Coast.

SeaQuest Dolphin Sightseeing Tour 116 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 837-2222 Climb aboard AJ’s SeaQuest, and experience affordable family fun as you cruise the emerald waters along the sugar-white sand beaches of Destin. The 53-foot boat carries up to 89 passengers and offers an array of excitement and fun for the entire family. Also receive complimentary drinks!

SHELL ISLAND DOLPHIN TOUR ON WAVERUNNERS 5325 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City, 235-8051 A popular way to see the dolphins and enjoy two hours of wave-runner riding on a guided tour to nearby Shell Island.

Shell Island Eco Sea-fari Tour and Dolphin Encounter 5550 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City, 234-3435 We begin the journey in the historic Grand Lagoon, then collect sea shells at Shell Island! The boat will remain at the dock while you explore the island. You will have an hour at your leisure to swim, go shelling, explore, picnic, or just relax and enjoy the beautiful and pristine uninhabited island!

Small-Group Dolphin and Snorkel Tour

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5325 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City, 235-8051 Take a cruise around Shell Island in search of wild bottlenose dolphins. This is a guided twohour cruise and a fun trip for the entire family. Not only do you get an exciting dolphin-tour experience, but free snorkel gear is included in case you want to park the boat and cool off.

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CHARLIE’S BURGER BAR

Snorkel and Dolphin Excursion on Destin’s Original Sea Blaster

2 Harbor Blvd, #100, Destin, 424-7695

34 Harbor Blvd, Kiosk 60G, Destin, 654-6888 Jump in and have some fun snorkeling! Then take a cruise and look for dolphins and other marine life along the coast. Snorkeling equipment is included.

A one-of-a-kind full-service burger bar. Choose from one of 18 different burgers, or get creative and build your own. Pick the bun, type of meat, cheese, and sides.

Sunset Dolphin Encounter Aboard Captain Anderson III

Multiple locations throughout area

5550 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City, 234-3435 Travel through the historic Grand Lagoon into St. Andrews Bay, then move up through the channel known as “the Pass” out to the edge of the gulf to watch dolphins play.

Swimming with Dolphins at Shell Island 5709 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City, 238-0909 Spend the day with a professional team of instructors who will teach the proper way to interact with dolphins. The tour is capped off with several live swim-ins at Shell Island for potential dolphin encounters.

FIREHOUSE SUBS

Restaurants American BONEHEADS FIRE GRILLED 10015 N Davis Hwy, Pensacola, 477-4002 We like to say adventure is the spice of life. We also like to say if you’ve perfected the spice of life, why fry it? At Boneheads, we serve freshly grilled food for a healthy dining experience that everyone can enjoy. We also offer full-service event catering. We can prepare and deliver food that tastes great to business meetings, training events, and more.

Hungry? We specialize in hot subs and submarine sandwiches made with premium meats and cheeses, steamed to perfection, then piled high on a toasted private-recipe sub roll. Our menu will surely satisfy your appetite! Founded by firemen. Catering available.

TROPICAL SMOOTHIE CAFE

Multiple locations throughout area Tropical Smoothie Cafe’s menu boasts bold, flavorful food and smoothies with a healthy appeal, all made to order from the freshest ingredients. We find that superior, simple ingredients, including real fruit and veggies, set our smoothies apart from others.

Uncle Bill’s Family Restaurant 252 N Ferdon Blvd, Crestview, 689-0099

ASIAGO’S SKILLET 300 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 424-4160

The Breakfast Table Cafe 385 Hwy 98 E, Destin, 460-7322

99 Eglin Pkwy, FWB, 301-9464, buffalowildwings.com

Corner Cafe 692 Bob Sikes Blvd, FWB, 803-0263

KC’s Sandbar and Grille 190 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, FWB, 244-1087

Props Craft Brewery and Grill 255 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, FWB, 586-7117

Slick Mick’s Deli and Grille 19 Eglin Pkwy, FWB, 864-5577

All American Heroes 8544 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, 936-9797

TC’s Front Porch 8552 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, 936-1601

Ye Olde Brothers Brewery 4458 Hwy 87, Navarre, 684-1495

Hurricane Grill and Wings 4597 Hwy 20 E, Niceville, 932-1075

One20, a Modern Bistro 120 Partin Dr, Niceville, 729-2120

Toast Wine Bar & Small Plate 4550 Hwy 20 E, Niceville, 279-6665

Carmelina’s Cafe 9400 University Pkwy, Pensacola, 208-6211

Cheddar’s

Chicken Salad Chick

7173 N Davis Hwy, Pensacola, 484-5203

36150 Emerald Coast Pkwy, #111, Destin, 460-2888

CJ’s Kitchen and Grille

Donut Hole Bakery & Café

2100 W Garden St, Pensacola, 435-9543

635 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 837-8824

Flora-Bama Lounge

Johnny Rockets

17401 Perdido Key Dr, Pensacola, 492-0611

4348 Legendary Dr, Destin, 837-0005

Grover’s Fingers and Wings

LANDSHARK’S PIZZA

9418 N Davis Hwy, Pensacola, 477-7172

300 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 424-6743

Jackson’s Steakhouse

The Pancakery 960 Hwy 98 E, Destin, 269-0791

Shakes Frozen Custard

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Buffalo Wild Wings

400 S Palafox St, Pensacola, 469-9898

Magnolia

1065 Hwy 98, Destin, 269-1111

2907 E Cervantes St, Pensacola, 912-6196

Smashburger

O’Briens Bistro

4283 Legendary Dr, Destin, 424-7600

4350 Bayou Blvd, Pensacola, 477-9120

Wingstop

Saltgrass Steak House

16055 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Ste 111, Destin, 837-5333

905 E Gregory St, Pensacola, 434-3600

E M E R A L D COA S T PA R E N T • R E S TAU R A N T G U I D E

Asian Bamboo Sushi Bar and Hibachi 2511 S Ferdon Blvd, Crestview, 689-1391

THAI SIAM CUISINE 396 E Cedar Ave, Crestview, 423-4510

Yumi Buffet

Barbecue/Southern

Creole

Buck’s Smoke House

790 on the Gulf

303 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 837-3600

2996 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, 650-4853

Smoke on the Water

4260 Legendary Dr, Destin, 424-5795

Mary’s Kitchen

314 Bayshore Dr, Niceville, 678-2233

Mellow Mushroom

99 Eglin Pkwy, #42, FWB, 863-1141

Sonny’s Real Pit BBQ

French Quarter Grill

2680 S Ferdon Blvd, Crestview, 683-8886

The Tipsy Pig Bar and Grill

Jackacudas

138 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, FWB, 301-0515

Louisiana Lunchbox

34904 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, 650-1288

Dirt Road Cookers 6900 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, 384-8839

Rib Shack of Navarre

821 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 650-3945

9532 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, 936-4244

Lotus Thai

Five Sisters Blues Cafe

Thai Delights Restaurant

550 Mary Esther Cut-Off, FWB, 243-3744

421 W Belmont St, Pensacola, 912-4856

Siam Garden Café

KC JOHN’S BBQ

334 N Eglin Pkwy, FWB, 862-7426

Thaiger Thai Restaurant 99 Eglin Pkwy, #34, FWB, 581-7600

11117 Lillian Hwy, Pensacola, 417-2965

Sonny’s Bar-B-Q

364 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze, 932-6882

6702 N 9th Ave, Pensacola, 476-7618  630 N Navy Blvd, Pensacola, 456-2000

Makong Thai Restaurant

Voodoo BBQ and Grill

Shang Hai Restaurant

1935 Ortega St, Navarre, 939-6950

Peking House 8224 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, 936-9898

Philippine Market and Café 144 S John Sims Pkwy, Valparaiso, 729-0811

Thai International Restaurant 481 S John Sims Pkwy, Valparaiso, 389-2146

Bangkok Garden  1708 W Fairfield Dr, Pensacola, 432-5511

Sake Cafe  4795 N 9th Ave, Pensacola, 494-9999

Shanghai Buffet  1741 E 9 Mile Rd, Pensacola, 857-8891

Tu-Do Vietnamese Restaurant  7130 N Davis Hwy, Pensacola, 473-8877

La Famiglia Ristorante Italiano and Pizza

Café Bienville

714 Howell Rd, Niceville, 678-2604

New Dragon Mongolian Grill and Buffet

104 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 460-2990

302 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 797-8252

925 Beal Pkwy, FWB, 314-0717

56 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 424-3507

Crust Pizzeria

1741 E 9 Mile Rd, Pensacola, 912-8111

Cajun Tonie’s Gumbo House 8600 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, 428-3864

Bayou Cajun Seafood, Po’boys and Pho 6705 Pine Forest Rd, #500, Pensacola, 435-4200

CUBS CRAWFISH 11125 Lillian Hwy, Pensacola, 456-7551

Rodizio Grill  605 E Gregory St, Pensacola, 466-2113

The Ruby Slipper Cafe (Brazilian) 509 S Palafox Ave, Pensacola, 792-4834

Caribbean

7000 Pine Forest Rd, Pensacola, 361-1130

French Zesty Baguette Bistro 4418 Commons Dr, Ste C, Destin, 460-8797

Bay Café 233 Alconese Ave SE, FWB, 244-3550

Bon Appétit Bakery and Café 420 Mary Esther Cut-Off NW, FWB, 244-2848

Heavenly Croissant 722 N Beal Pkwy, FWB, 862-6790

German Schnitzel Brew House 98 Eglin Pkwy, Ste 8, FWB, 226-4796

The Schnitzel Lodge 4504 E Hwy 20, Niceville, 279-4485

Indian

960 Hwy 98 E, Destin, 650-6420

Mimmo’s 979 Hwy 98, #5, Destin, 460-7353

Vinny McGuire’s Pizza 29 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 650-0116

Ali’s Bistro 171 Brooks St SE, FWB, 226-4708

Clemenza’s 75 Eglin Pkwy Ste 126, FWB, 243-0707

Niki’s Pizza 2843 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze, 934-4228

Papa’s Pizza 37551 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze, 934-3334

NEW YORK PIZZA DEPOT 8207 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, 936-6973

Sal’s Pizzeria and Grill 6903 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, 936-8240

CIAO BELLA PIZZA 4400 E Hwy 20E, Niceville, 729-0066

Fazoli’s  7210 N Davis Hwy, Pensacola, 473-9585

Passage to India

Franco’s Italian Restaurant

3102 E Cervantes, Pensacola, 433-8887

523 E Gregory St, Pensacola, 433-9200

Taste of India

Georgio’s Pizza

810 E Gregory St, Pensacola, 439-3005

3000 E Cervantes St, Pensacola, 432-5996

Irish Beef O’Brady’s 2509 S Ferdon Blvd, Crestview, 682-9588

Santino’s Pizza and Grinders  4771 Bayou Blvd, Pensacola, 474-0400

TUSCAN OVEN

Johnny O’Quigley’s

4801 N 9th Ave, Pensacola, 484-6836

1025 Industrial Dr, Crestview, 306-1012

Dominic’s Pizzeria

McGuire’s Irish Pub 33 Hwy 98E, Destin, 650-0000

Italian

177 John Sims Pkwy, Valparaiso, 389-2131

Jamaican

Yum’s Chinese

The Caribbean Pot

Mia’s Italian Restaurant

Bamboo’s Jamaican Restaurant

1620 Airport Blvd, Pensacola, 477-2999

481 S John Sims Pkwy, Ste B, Valparaiso, 389-2270

2203 S Ferdon Blvd, Crestview, 682-8333

236 Miracle Strip Pkwy, SE, FWB, 226-6464

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Lana’s Jamaican House Cafe

La Paz Restaurante and Cantina

Gilligan’s Seafood Restaurant

THE FISH HOUSE

7700 W Fairfield Dr, Pensacola, 453-2144

950 Gulf Shore Dr, Destin, 837-2247

530 Hwy 98 E, Destin, 650-4400

600 S Barracks St, Pensacola, 470-0003

Mediterranean

Ricon Boriqua

LULU’S DESTIN

538 Eglin Pkwy NE, FWB, 863-3323

4607 Legendary Marina Dr, Destin, 710-5858 (LULU)

Zoe’s Kitchen

Sabor A Mexico

4357 Legendary Dr, Destin, 650-6525

El Paso Navarre

Aegean Breeze Deli 913 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, #20, Gulf Breeze, 916-0430

YIOTA’S GREEK DELI 130 Miracle Strip Pkwy, Mary Esther, 302-0691

Chrisoula’s Cheesecake Cafe  236 W Garden St, Pensacola, 438-5650

13 Eglin Pkwy SE, FWB, 243-3331 9500 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, 936-4994

El Patron Mexican Grill 8137 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, 936-0950

Old Mexico Restaurant 1177 E John Sims Pkwy, Niceville, 729-1127

Taco Town

Hummus

113 Partin Dr, Niceville, 729-8646

3012 N 9th Ave, Pensacola, 332-6709

Miguel’s Mexican Food

Jordan Valley Cafe

2 E 9 Mile Rd, Pensacola, 607-7121

201 S Jefferson St, Pensacola, 607-2780  4550 N 9th Ave, Pensacola, 466-5901  201 S New Warrington, Pensacola, 466-2342

The Aegean Restaurant 1259 Eglin Pkwy, Shalimar, 613-6120

Mexican/Cuban/ Puerto Rican CRAB ISLAND CANTINA 2 Harborwalk Blvd #100, Destin, 424-7417 We offer a large selection of seafood, Latin-inspired cuisine, award-winning fusion, and Black Angus steaks all served in a casual waterfront-dining atmosphere.

Rio Bravo  596 E 9 Mile Rd, Pensacola, 466-2468

Cafe Amapola 481 S John Sims Pkwy, Valparaiso, 678-6767

East Gate Cafe 481 S John Sims Pkwy, Valparaiso, 389-2271

Seafood Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House 414 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 424-7406

Tailfins Seafood, Alehouse and Oyster Bar 172 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 650-1200

524 South B St, Pensacola, 4323313

L & L Fresh Seafood  1611 N Pace Blvd, Pensacola, 432-0234

AJ’s on the Bayou

THE OAR HOUSE

200 Eglin Pkwy, NE, FWB, 864-4694

1000 S Pace Blvd, Pensacola, 549-4444

Anglers Beachside Grill 1030 Miracle Strip Pkwy, FWB, 796-0260

Sam’s Seafood and Steaks

Old Bay Steamer

The Fishing Hole

102 Santa Rosa Blvd, FWB, 664-2795

15 Brent Ln, Pensacola, 912-6664

Rick’s Crab Trap

303 Glen Ave, Valparaiso, 7290406

178 Eglin Pkwy, FWB, 664-0110

Stewby’s Seafood Shanty 427 Racetrack Rd NW, FWB, 586-7001

Dave’s Oyster Bar 4584 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze, 934-1789

420 S A St, Pensacola, 432-6626

Doc’s Oyster Bar

VEGAN End of the Line Cafe  610 E Wright St, Pensacola, 429-0336

EAST BAY CRAB HOUSE 9250 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, 939-5543

The Gulf 1284 Marler Ave, Okaloosa Island, 387-1300

Dockside Oyster Bar & Café 821 Bayshore Dr, Niceville, 678-1241

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

L J Schooner’s Dockside Restaurant and Oyster Bar

14059 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, 650-1881

290 Yacht Club Dr, Niceville, 8975400

Azteca Mexican Restaurant

Dewey Destin

Atlas Oyster House

789 N Ferdon Blvd, Crestview, 682-8206

9 Calhoun Ave, Destin, 837-7575 202 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 837-7525

600 S Barracks St, Pensacola, 437-1961

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Joe Patti’s

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FUN GUIDE CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Making the Most of Life on the Coast! We live on a beautiful coast that has so much to offer, and we’re here to make sure you know what’s going on in your own backyard. Enjoy!

Mardi Gras best and get ready for amazing floats, moon-pies, street performers, and more! For more information, visit www.baytownewharf.com.

Fat Tuesday and Pet Costume Contest

Tues, March 5 – HarborWalk Village (5:00p.m.) Celebrate Mardi Gras and revel in the fun at HarborWalk Village! Enjoy free red beans and rice and a Pet Costume Contest, where pets will be decked out in purple, green, and gold! For more information, visit www.fwbchamber.org.

The Arts Bernstein, Broadway & Beyond Sat, March 2 – Destin (7:30p.m.)

Head to Village Baptist Church in Destin for Bernstein, Broadway and Beyond. Featuring vocalists Morgan James and Nicholas Rodriguez and host Jamie Bernstein! For more information, visit www.fwbchamber.org.

St. Paddy’s Day Family Party

Sun, March 17 – HarborWalk Village (12:00p.m.)

Seasonal Mardi Gras Parade

Sat, March 2 – HarborWalk Village (2:00p.m.) Beads, beads, and more beads! Head to HarborWalk Village for their Mardi Gras Parade and enjoy dazzling floats, colorful costumes, street performers, live music, and more! For more information, visit www.fwbchamber.org.

16th Annual Mardi Gras Dog Parade

Sun, March 3 – Baytowne Wharf (2:00p.m.) Bring your furry canine friend to Baytowne Wharf for the 16th Annual Mardi Gras Dog Parade! This unique parade is dedicated to the dogs, with the theme this year being “Bone Appetit!” For more information, visit www.baytownewharf.com.

17th Annual Fat Tuesday Baytowne Bash Parade Tues, March 5 – Baytowne Wharf (5:00p.m.)

Let the good times roll at the 17th Annual Fat Tuesday Baytowne Bash Parade! Dress in your

Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day with an afternoon of family fun, featuring a live performance from the Carpenter Academy School of Irish Dance, kids’ crafts, and a leprechaun treasure hunt! For more information, visit www.emeraldgrande.com.

St. Patty’s Day Delight – Paint the Village Green Sun, March 17 – Baytowne Wharf (6:00p.m.)

Celebrate the luck of the Irish at the Village of Baytowne Wharf with The Drake School of Irish Dance and live music by The Blenders! For more information, visit www.baytownewharf.com.

Easter Explosion

Sat, April 20 – Baytowne Wharf (12:00p.m.) Bounce over to the Village of Baytowne Wharf for the Easter Explosion! Enjoy family-friendly entertainment, lawn games, face painting, and even race over an inflatable obstacle course! Last but not least, there will be a photo opportunity with the Easter Bunny! This event is free. For more information, visit www.baytownewharf.com.

Pensacola Little Theatre: The Velveteen Rabbit Fri, March 8 – Pensacola (7:30p.m.)

Directed by Jay Bixler, this production will tell the story of the stuffed rabbit who longs to become real through the love of its owner. Bring the family and enjoy this amazing show! For more information, visit www.pensacolachamber.com.

Hammer of the Gods – Led Zeppelin Experience Sat, March 9 – Mattie Kelly Arts Center (7:30p.m.) The Led Zeppelin Experience is a touring act re-creating the excitement of Led Zeppelin’s

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Amphitheater for an amazing concert under the stars! Enjoy the wonderful music of Forrest Williams and I’MAGENE. For more information, visit www.mattiekellyartscenter.org.

Dance Facets

Fri, April 26 – Mattie Kelly Arts Center (7:30p.m.) Dance Facets is an annual dance program concert. Many styles of dance are featured, from ballet to jazz, and contemporary to tap. Each year is very different and exciting! Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for youth ages 18 and under. For more information, visit www.mattiekellyartscenter.org

Part psychological thriller and part revenge tragedy, this play is inspired by Shakespeare’s Hamlet and takes place sometime in the near future of New York City in the headquarters of the corporation CyberCom International. For more information, visit www.mattiekellyartscenter.org.

Sounds Fun WSRE PBS Kids & Family Day at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park Sat, March 2 – Baytowne Wharf (10:00a.m.)

Mozart’s Requiem and Stars of Tomorrow

Sat, April 13 – Mattie Kelly Arts Center (7:30p.m.)

Literary journalist and documentary filmmaker Sebastian Junger will speak about his latest book, Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging. Books will be available for purchase and a book signing will follow the event. For more information, visit www.mattiekellyartscenter.org.

Million Dollar Quartet

Wed, April 17 – Mattie Kelly Arts Center (7:30p.m.) On December 4, 1956, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins gathered at Sun Records in Memphis for what would be one of the greatest rock ‘n’ roll jam sessions ever! The Tony Award-winning smash-hit musical Million Dollar Quartet brings that unbelievable musical moment to life, featuring timeless and enduring hits. For tickets and more information, visit www.destinchamber.com.

Northwest Fest

Thurs, April 25 – Mattie Kelly Arts Center (6:00p.m.) Head to the Mattie Kelly Arts Center

The Emerald Bay Golf Club is hosting the Destin Chamber’s Annual Tax Relief Golf Tournament. This 4-person scramble has a shotgun start at noon, and offers outstanding networking and advertising opportunities. For more information, call 850-837-6241.

Get your walkin’ shoes and head to Shoreline Drive in Gulf Breeze for the Gulf Coast March for Babies. The purpose of this march is to raise money and awareness for the health of all moms and babies. Registration starts at 8:00a.m. and the 2-mile walk begins at 8:30a.m. For more information or to register, visit www.marchforbabies.org.

Wed, March 13 – Mattie Kelly Arts Center (7:30p.m.)

Sat, April 15 – Mattie Kelly Arts Center (7:00p.m.)

Thurs, April 18 – Destin (12:00p.m.)

Sat, April 27 – Gulf Breeze (8:00a.m.)

Uptown 1.0

NWF Reads & Blackwater Review Reception Main Event

Destin Chamber’s Annual Tax Relief Golf Tournament

Gulf Coast March for Babies 2019

legendary live concerts of the early 1970s. Guests can look forward to amazing theatrics, period costumes, authentic equipment, and spectacular lights and sounds! For tickets and more information, visit www.destinchamber.com.

Join the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra for a farewell letter from the greatest composer of all time, featuring Northwest Florida Symphony Chorale. This season finale concert spotlights the amazing talents of the youth Concerto Competition winners of the NFSO Guild-sponsored competition. Seating is limited and attendees must have a concert ticket. For more information, visit www.destinchamber.com.

event will test the strength, agility, teamwork, and skills of firefighters, as well as provide a fun, family-friendly event for participants and the public. For more information or to register, visit www.pensacolachamber.com.

Runs, Walks & More Mardi Gras Scramble

Sat, March 2 – Shalimar (8:30a.m.) Get into the swing of things at the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida’s annual Mardi Gras Scramble! There will be flight winner awards, a silent auction, raffle, refreshments, and complimentary massages by A Day Away! For more information or to register, visit www. heritage-museum.org.

Dive into family fun during the 5th annual WSRE PBS KIDS and Family Day at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park! Nature Cat, Peg + Cat, and Clifford the Big Red Dog will be in attendance. Young fans can enjoy arts and crafts, a bounce house, and a scavenger hunt! A portion of the proceeds from the day’s admission fees will be donated to the WSRE-TV Foundation. For more information, visit www.fwbchamber.org.

13th Annual Children in Crisis Charity Golf Tournament

Fri, March 15 – Fort Walton Beach (11:00a.m.) Head to the Fort Walton Beach Golf Club for the 11th annual Children in Crisis Charity Golf Tournament. Lunch will be served at 11:00a.m., followed by a shotgun start at noon. For more information, visit www.fwbchamber.org.

Bayou Hills Run

Sat, March 30 – Pensacola (6:00a.m.) Get ready for this year’s Bayou Hills Run and enjoy great views, challenging courses, and a family-friendly atmosphere. This event includes a 10K, 5K and 1-mile kids’ run. For more information or to register, visit www.pensacolachamber.com.

Pensacola Beach Firefighters’ Challenge Sat, April 13 – Pensacola (8:00a.m.)

Pensacola Sports is hosting the 3rd annual Pensacola Beach Firefighters Challenge on the beautiful white sand of Pensacola Beach. This

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8th Annual Gumbo Throwdown

Thurs, March 7 – Fort Walton Beach (5:30p.m.) Head to First City Bank in Fort Walton Beach for an exciting Mardi Gras cook-off, featuring gumbos from the area’s top restaurants. Proceeds will benefit Fresh Start for Children and Families. For more information, visit www. fwbchamber.org.

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local bands that will provide fabulous entertainment, you are in for a real treat! For more information, visit www.fwbchamber.org.

Pensacola Food Truck Festival

Fri, April 5–Sat, April 6 – Pensacola (5:00p.m.) The Pensacola Habitat for Humanity welcomes families, foodies, and Pensacola Habitat supporters to its annual Food Truck Festival! Whether you’re planning an outing with the family or meeting some friends for food, it is sure to be a great time. For more information, visit www.pensacolahotwheels.org.

6th Annual Tequila and Taco Fest Sat, March 9 – Destin (1:00p.m.)

Enjoy a flavorful afternoon on the Destin Harbor full of tequila tastings, live music, and tacos of all kinds! This event is sponsored by Crab Island Cantina and is expected to sell out. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance. For more information, call 850-424-0600.

Vettes at the Village

Sat, March 23 – Baytowne Wharf (10:00a.m.) Vettes at the Village is returning to the Village of Baytowne Wharf! Enjoy the Village while area corvette clubs bring “America’s Sports Car” to the Events Plaza! These automotive icons will be shined to the max as they zoom into the Village streets. Be a part of the show and vote for your favorite style and model. This event is free. For more information, visit www.baytownewharf.com.

International Festival

Sat, March 23 – Fort Walton Beach (10:00a.m.) Head to the Emerald Coast Convention Center for the International Festival and enjoy music, food, folklore, and art from many nations. Proceeds will be donated to Opportunity Place Inc., a shelter for single homeless women and families. For more information, visit www.fwbchamber.org.

15th Annual Triple B BBQ Cook Off

Sat, March 23 – Fort Walton Beach (10:00a.m.) Get ready for a day full of delicious barbecue, international foods, music, and family fun! With vendors from all over Okaloosa County, and

Head to the Town Center of Grand Boulevard at Sandestin for this year’s South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival. This festival features an amazing showcase of the best wines in the world, celebrity wine producers, delicious food, and seminars. Proceeds will benefit the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, which helps children in need in Northwest Florida. For more information, visit www.destinchamber.com.

Every Sunday – Baytowne Wharf (7:15p.m.) Grab a lawn chair or a blanket and head to the Events Plaza Lawn at Baytowne Wharf to enjoy a movie. This event is free. For more information and movie listings, visit www.baytownewharf.com.

If you’re looking for a day of family fun, look no further than the 30th Anniversary Celebration at the Emerald Coast Science Center! For more information, visit www.fwbchamber.org.

Sip and shop through the Village streets and enjoy an evening of champagne, live music, and shopping during the Bubbly Baytowne event! Stop in the stores throughout Baytowne as you enjoy a selection of premium champagnes. This event is free and for ages 21 and up only. For more information, visit www.baytownewharf. com.

Thurs, April 25–Sun, April 28 – Miramar Beach

Sunday Cinema

Sat, March 9 – Fort Walton Beach

Thurs, March 14 and Thurs, April 25 – Baytowne Wharf (5:00p.m.)

South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival

Reoccurring Local

30th Anniversary Celebration at Emerald Coast Science Center

Bubbly Baytowne

Gulf Coast. This event will include artists from across the region and nation, including artists with autism. The family-friendly event will include a kid zone, performing arts stage, live music, food trucks, and artist booths. Admission is free. For more information, please visit www. pensacolachamber.com.

Hydroflight Mondays

Every Monday – Baytowne Wharf

Downtown FWB Street Fest

Fri, April 5 – Fort Walton Beach (6:00p.m.) The Downtown FWB Street Fest is a new, fun and exciting way to spend your Friday night. The sidewalks will be filled with amazing vendors, live entertainment, and more. For more information, visit www.fwbchamber.org.

Sunset Festival with Kitty Hawk Kites

Sat, April 6–Sun, April 7 – Fort Walton Beach Head to the Boardwalk in Fort Walton Beach and join Kitty Hawk Kites and the Emerald Coast Kite Flyers Club for two days of free kiteflying fun! Enjoy larger-than-life show kites, professional stunt-kite flying demonstrations, free stunt-kite flying lessons, and special activities at the Kitty Hawk Kites store. For more information, visit www.fwbchamber.org.

33rd Annual Sandestin Wine Festival

Thurs, April 11–Sun, April 14 – Baytowne Wharf (1:00p.m.) Head to the Village for the 31st annual Sandestin Wine Festival! Four days of unique events open up a wide range of experiences, from attending wine dinners with celebrity chefs to taking part in wine tastings that showcase hundreds of wines. This event is perfect for wine novices and professionals alike. For more information, visit www.baytownewharf.com.

Art on the Green

Sat, April 13 – Pensacola (11:00a.m.) Art on the Green is an exciting art festival that aims to increase awareness and acceptance of the talents of individuals with autism along the

Enjoy shows from fly-board extraordinaire Ben Merrell over the lagoon. Watch as he soars to the sky and makes waves at Baytowne Wharf. For more information and show times, visit www. baytownewharf.com.

Boomin’ Tuesday

Every Tuesday – Baytowne Wharf (6:00p.m.) Enjoy lawn games and inflatables in the Events Plaza, and then watch as Baytowne lights up the sky with a breathtaking fireworks show over the Lagoon at 8:30p.m. This event is free. For more information, visit www.baytownewharf.com.

Poetry and Music Jam

Second Tuesday of each month – Crestview (6:00p.m.) Head to the Crestview Public Library where poets and musicians are invited to bring their work and instruments to a free-form, openmic poetry reading and jam session. For more information, visit www.crestviewchamber.org.

Wednesday Night Concert Series

Every Wednesday – Baytowne Wharf (7:00p.m.) The Wednesday Night Concert Series is back at Baytowne! Enjoy the great weather and live entertainment. The concert series features local and regional talent on the Events Plaza Stage. For more information, visit www.baytownewharf.com.

Magical Thursday

Every Thursday – Baytowne Wharf (7:00p.m.) Watch as featured pirate Captain Davy takes you on an adventure with two magic shows on stage. For show times and more information, visit www.baytownewharf.com.

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