Issuu Emerald Coast Parent July-August 2017 by Rob Williams

parent Emerald Coast Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Your MagazineTM

Common Cent$

10 Sanity- & Money-Saving Tips to Survive Back-to-School Shopping

No Place Like Home

Stress-Free Summer Staycations the Whole Family Can Enjoy

Hammock Weather

Ditch Your Guilt and Seize the Day

Helping Kids Face Back-to-School Fears

Acknowledging the Fear and Minimizing the Drama

July+August 2017

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July+August 2017

contents

9 14 INSIDE THIS ISSUE

FAMILY BUILDERS

Strong Families Don’t Just Happen

Common Cents 10 Sanity- & Money-Saving Tips to Survive Back-to-School Shopping

No Place Like Home Stress-Free Summer Staycations the Whole Family Can Enjoy

Helping Kids Face Back-to-School Fears: Acknowledging the Fear and Minimizing the Drama

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.................31 Crafts—Get Creative with Your Kids............................34

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!

14 36

Hammock Weather Ditch Your Guilt and Seize the Day Teen Talk Helpful Advice from One Teen to Another

YOUR FAMILY’S HEALTH

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

FAMILY FUN GUIDE

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

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

Heat Rash 101........................................................................18

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

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 Gayla Grace Christa Melnyk Hines Christina Katz Pam Molnar Calendar of Events and Resource Guide Suzanne Bratton info@itsyourmagazine.com Subject Line: Calendar Proofreader Becky English

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 Sales Manager Lexy Cruz lexycruz@itsyourmagazine.com Creative Director Rob Williams robwilliams@itsyourmagazine.com Webmaster Brent Nims nimsmedia.com 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. © 2017 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 • July+August 2017 • EC Parent Magazine

By Christina Katz

CO M M O N

: $ T N E C s to

Tip g n i v a S y Mone & pping y o t h i S n l a o S o 0 1 o-Sch t k c a B e Surviv the only place School is not learn. Parents where children n learn a lot and children ca each other by about life and l ack-to-schoo tackling the b cess together. preparation pro art preparing Whether you st hool on July 5 for back to sc t before the firs or a few days tips will help bell rings, these iling from start keep you all sm to finish.

ay Clear the chW of ildâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s room purged

Tr y to have each it d rearranged to su outgrown items an hool. sc of t ior to the star their new grade pr art st lp he your child to Work on this with ool ch -s -to ing into back mentally transition up g in tt se attention to mode. Pay special can n where each child io a homework stat s lie pp su ve homework spread out and ha within reach.

pa ge 6 Co nti nu ed on

Continued from page 5

Measure Each Child

Don’t do a bunch of shopping before you realize how much your kids have grown. Get your tape measure out, and check heights and assess chest, waist, and hip sizes. Once you get to the shoe store, compare shoe sizes with last year’s. Don’t forget that a child’s feet can be two different sizes. These tips will save you time in dressing rooms and help you choose clothes and shoes in appropriate sizes in the first place. Children are often proud of growing, but finding out that they need larger sizes can be unwelcome news for them to discover in the dressing room. Prepare to be a tactful and encouraging presence while your child tries things on if you want to avoid upsets, especially during the middle-school years.

Don’t do a bunch of shopping before you realize how much your kids have grown.

Shop at Home First Hand-me-downs may be disappointing to kids, but some items survive the use of older children and are still in good shape for sisters and brothers the next year. Items younger kids may not object to include notebooks, binders, pens, paper, or note cards. Collect useable school supplies at the end of each school year, and keep them in a bin until the new school year starts. If you have a flexible younger

child, a lightly used backpack or lunch bag may even be acceptable. But when younger siblings desire items that express their own identify, don’t force them to inherit. Donate old supplies, and start over.

child to toss all schoolwork that has been returned by the teacher. Then, at the end of the year, you can sit down with each child and sift through what to save and what to toss. Only save items your child is most proud of and that show academic and imaginative development. Don’t save every scrap of paper and artwork in the long run. Display oversized artwork for the summer, then take photos and dispose of items before the new school year begins.

Update the Memory Binder

Delay Clothes Shopping Surely each of your children will need a few new things before school starts, but the sales won’t begin in earnest until after the first day of school. There is plenty of money to be saved if you can wait to purchase larger items later in the shopping season. Besides, fall fashions are usually for cooler temps that are still several weeks or even months away. This is also a good opportunity to check out how fashions fare at your children’s respective schools before you finish shopping. For example, middle-school students may no longer wish to shop at a store that was perfectly popular during elementary school. If you do shop early, save receipts and keep tags on clothing until after the first day of school, just in case your child has a change of heart.

Use one two-inch binder for each child to hold academic certificates of accomplishment, awards, team photos, participation letters, and such. Keep extra sheet protectors at the ready inside. Store these binders somewhere where each child can access theirs, and when something new is to be added, let them add it. This gives them a moment to look back over what they have accomplished and reflect on their successes. If you keep this folder updated from kindergarten through senior year, it will serve as a tangible reminder of their high points, which can boost confidence. Finally, when it’s time to apply for colleges or other merit-based programs, the contents of the binder can be put to practical use and may even inspire essay ideas. We use a nice leather binder to make this one more special than other organizational binders.

Create Homework Storage Setting up a storage system for graded work and art can keep items tidy for each student throughout the year and make sorting papers easier at the end of the year. Middle-school and older students can learn how to use an accordion file to store their completed schoolwork. If students are too young for filing papers by class or subject, set aside a plastic bin for each

Water Bottle Sense

Many schools either require or suggest that students carry their own water bottles. This is a great habit for children and one Continued on page 8

6 • July+August 2017 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Continued from page 6

ITEMS THAT EXPRESS IDENTITY Back-to-school time is an opportunity to let each child express individual identity through the items they select for school. Parents shopping for these items with a practical eye may be surprised by how much they mean to students. So here’s a heads up on the back-to-school items that usually matter most to kids. Since you are likely spending the money anyway, why not let them choose their own colors and designs? Don’t rush them to choose as they strive to make a good first impression. Whatever items make them feel comfortable and relaxed, within reason, is the path to peaceful agreement.

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that will serve them the rest of their lives. In addition to keeping bodies and minds hydrated, water bottle carrying can discourage the consumption of sugary beverages. However, when it comes to keeping track of water bottles, consider the age and level of responsibility of each child. In her eighthgrade year, my daughter’s water bottle made it through the entire year for the very first time. Buying a young child an expensive water bottle may not be a good use of your money. Also important: look for water bottles that won’t leak. As children get older, bottles will stick around longer, and then you can justify spending a bit more.

while budgeting that school groups and teams usually encourage the purchase of such items to boost camaraderie.

Our biggest debate is typically about brand names. Once she sees that other kids are wearing expensive name brands, she wants them too.

Choose Your Battles

Become a Joiner

Chances are good that your school sells clothing and items in school colors with school mascots emblazoned on them. Collecting some branded materials may make your child feel more like part of the school. This can be especially important when starting a new school. However, follow the same rule as in clothing shopping, and don’t purchase school wear until classes start. Kids don’t want just any old T-shirt;

We often toss the expression “Choose your battles” around as parents, and back to school is a good time to put it to use. With my daughter, our biggest debate is typically about brand names. Once she sees that other kids are wearing expensive name brands, she wants them too. But this is where I draw the line. We don’t sacrifice our budget for slick marketing campaigns. I explain to my daughter that she may look for the over-priced items at gently used stores, but she may not spend even her own money on a $50 T-shirt or a $100 pair of jeans. I can’t reconcile these prices with our family’s values. Besides, this is a real-life opportunity to discuss how marketing and advertising influence consumer spending. Your back-to-school battles may be different, but go ahead and choose them, and use them as springboards for raising your child’s awareness on topics that matter to your family. v

Kids don’t want just any old T-shirt they want the school wear that works best for them, whatever that means to them. Perhaps offer to spend a certain amount on school items to be spread out among T-shirts, gym clothes, lanyards, or water bottles throughout the year. Don’t forget

8 • July+August 2017 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Author, journalist, and writing coach Christina Katz has been practicing the back-to-school transition for ten years now. She may finally have gotten the hang of it.

By Alyssa Chirco

E C A L P O N

E M O H E K LI

Stress-Free Summer Staycations the Whole Family Can Enjoy Jetting off to an exotic destination in the Caribbean may sound like the perfect family vacation, but there are many other ways to rest, relax, and spend quality time together as a family. If a fancy trip doesn’t fit into your family’s budget or calendar this summer, why not consider a vacation closer to home? With a little thought and a lot of creativity, you can plan a spectacular, stress-free staycation that requires minimal travel yet still allows you to make plenty of special summer memories.

Be Tourists in Your Own Hometown How much time do you spend taking advantage of all that your hometown has to offer? Pretend you are tourists, and devote your

staycation to touring some of the amazing attractions in your own backyard.

• Visit local museums, parks, and zoos. Many offer a discount for residents.

• Attend a sporting event, and root for your home-

town team. Purchase a two-day pass to a nearby water or amusement park. Bike local trails. Pack a picnic or stop at a locally owned winery or restaurant along the way. Splurge on tickets to a concert or musical at your city’s most popular theater. Learn a little history by visiting historical sites and monuments within driving distance of your home.

• • • •

Continued on page 13

By Gayla Grace

HELPING

KIDS

FACE

BACK-TO-

SCHOOL

FEARS

“Mom, I’m not sure I should have signed up for calculus and AP English,” says Adam, a highschool junior. “I’ve heard both classes are really hard at my school. “ Adam, a smart student who doesn’t want to disappoint his parents, lacks confidence in his ability to keep up with the work required in his upcoming classes. His main fear centers around academics. Adam’s younger sister, Avery, is entering middle school, and she’s nervous about her new school environment. Avery doesn’t make friends easily, and many of her friends will be going to a different middle school than she will be. She worries about whom she’ll eat lunch with and

whether she’ll have anyone to talk to in the mornings. Avery’s fears are focused on the social aspects of school. As our kids head back to school, they have fears that range from finding the right bus at the end of the day to whether they’ll pass all their classes to graduate. A child’s personality, learning style, academic needs, social and emotional development, and prior school experiences contribute to their fears and how they handle them. As parents, we can help our kids adjust to upcoming change and cope with whatever fears they face. Following are a few tips.

Acknowledge the Fear

When our kids recognize and put words to their fears, we can help them cope. Questions from Avery’s mom like, “What are you concerned about as you start middle school—the lunch period? Making new friends?” will get Avery talking. As she expresses her fears, her mom can acknowledge them by saying, “I know it can be scary to start a new school. Do you remember when we first moved here and how well you adjusted to your new school, new church, and new soccer program in the community?” She could also remind Avery of her wide base of friends in elementary school and encourage her to talk about how she made friends before. If a child has had a challenging or traumatic issue at school, it’s important to acknowledge the issue and help the child separate the past from the present. For instance, just because Avery encountered a mean-girl friendship last year that shattered her confidence doesn’t mean she can’t equip herself to manage things better in middle school. Stressful situations provide opportunities for our kids to practice life skills, with our support and words of wisdom, that will carry them into adulthood.

Minimize Drama Surrounding the Fear Adam’s fear of passing calculus might bring up memories of our own failures in high school. When those thoughts surface, it’s best for us to keep a lid on how much we say. Positive statements that remind Adam of his previous successes in difficult classes will help dissipate his fears. Brainstorming ideas, such as using a tutor or getting help from his brainy friend next door when necessary, will help him past his fear.

Watching children struggle with fear sends many parents into rescue mode. Watching children struggle with fear sends many parents into rescue mode. Instead of helping them face their fears, parents find ways of escape. Adam doesn’t need to enroll in a different class because he’s nervous about calculus. He needs reminders of how he has succeeded in the past and encouragement that will enable him to press through. “It’s a wise parent who realizes not only that our children watch us and repeat our words, but they also take their cues about how to react to life from us,” says Sherry Surratt in her Thriving Family article, “Mom, I’m Scared.” “If we over-react, we send messages of worry that can enable our children’s fear.” We hinder our children from the maturing process when we magnify the problem and take over to solve it. Facing fears and learning how to cope with stressful situations is a normal part of healthy development. Continued on page 12

10 • July+August 2017 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

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Teach Your Child to Ask for Help In a new school environment, it’s likely that Avery fears getting lost in the halls. First-day anxiety can be relieved by teaching her that help is only one question away. Teachers are prepared to help new students navigate large buildings with hard-to-find classrooms. Older students can also provide friendly guidance to newcomers.

School counselors are equipped to provide assistance when students need answers to difficult situations. School counselors are equipped to provide assistance when students need answers to difficult situations. If Avery encounters bullying from mean girls, asking for a counselor’s help alerts school administration to a problem that might need addressing on a larger scale and protects Avery from behavior that could escalate. Reminding kids that they don’t have to face their fears alone gives them confidence to face new environments and walk through challenging situations.

Help Your Child Build Resiliency

Children who have a resilient attitude fare well with whatever life presents. Parents can’t predict every circumstance a child will encounter, but we can help nurture strong attributes. The American Psychological Association offers the following ten tips to help build resilience in children and teens (www.apa. org/helpcenter/resilience.aspx):

• Make connections (friends, family support, church) • Have him or her help others (contribution) • Maintain a daily routine • Take a break (when overly stressed or worried) • Teach your child self-care • Move toward your goals • Nurture a positive self-view • Keep things in perspective—maintain a hopeful outlook • Look for opportunities for self-discovery • Accept that change is part of living Resiliency enables our kids to face their fears head on and gives them confidence to overcome them. Back-to-school fears are real, and kids need help coping with what worries them. As parents, we can help our children adjust to upcoming change and face their fears by modeling and teaching healthy development skills and coping strategies. v

Gayla Grace holds a master’s degree in psychology and counseling and has coached her five kids through an assortment of back-to-school fears.

12 July+August 2017 EC Parent Magazine

Continued from page 9

• Many communities hold special parades, carnivals, and festivals throughout the summer. Mark your calendar, and make plans to attend one or several.

Some families like to spend a few nights at a local hotel to make a hometown staycation feel more like a vacation. Look for one with a pool where the kids can swim, and make your stay memorable by ordering room service and enjoying breakfast in bed before you head out to explore the city.

Bring the Beach to You If you live within driving distance of a lake or ocean, a staycation can be as simple as packing up the family and heading out to enjoy the sand and sun. For those who are a bit more landlocked, it‘s easier than you might think to bring the beach to you. Fill a kiddie or blow-up pool with water in your backyard, and surround it with several bags of sand from the local hardware store. Add beach balls for playing catch, and pails and shovels for building sandcastles. Bring out lounge chairs and sunscreen, and whip up some fruity drinks with tiny umbrellas for the ultimate beach-day experience.

stories around a campfire.

Enjoy the Comforts of Home Sometimes the best staycations are all about staying home. Ideas include:

• Turn your house into a spa

by lighting aromatherapy candles, sipping on spa water infused with fruit and mint, and pampering each other with massages. Throw a pajama party, and spend a few days lounging on the couch, enjoying a marathon of your family’s favorite movies. Host a family board-game tournament or backyard field day with prizes. Start a family book club, and spend time with everyone reading the same books and then discussing them together over ice-cream sundaes.

• • •

Get creative with a Mexican-fiesta or Hawaiian-luau theme,

Have Outdoor Adventures Summer is the ideal season to explore the outdoors, so why not plan a staycation that is all about outdoor adventure? Reserve a campsite or cabin in your favorite local park, and spend a few days fishing, hiking, and geocaching in the fresh air. If your kids are strong swimmers, plan a family float trip down a nearby river or creek. Prefer to stay at home for your staycation? Pitch a tent in your backyard, and spend a couple nights sleeping under the stars. Spend your days going on outdoor scavenger hunts to collect objects like leaves and insects and your evenings roasting marshmallows and telling spooky

Conclude your at-home staycation by throwing an epic block party with the neighbors. Get creative with a Mexicanfiesta or Hawaiian-luau theme, or keep it simple by planning a few fun games like kickball or water-balloon toss and making it a potluck. Either way, you will be creating special summer memories for your whole family. Even better, you won’t have to travel far from home to do so. v Alyssa Chirco writes about parenting and family life for publications across the country. She and her family are planning an at-home staycation in their hometown of St. Louis this summer .

WHAT IS A STAYCATION? As the name implies, a staycation is, essentially, a vacation that revolves around staying home. Some families choose staycation activities that don’t require them to leave the house, while others prefer to get out and explore their local communities. No matter what type of staycation you choose, following a few guidelines can help you make sure that it feels like a true vacation for everyone. Take time off from work. Yes, this means you, Mom and Dad. Whether your staycation lasts for a full week or just a long weekend, resist the urge to check in with the office. Unplug. Your staycation does not have to be entirely screen free, but put away the smartphones and tablets in favor of games, conversations, and connections with loved ones. Make a meal plan. Take a vacation from your kitchen too by stocking up on sandwich fixings for simple, no-cook meals or dine out. Avoid non-essential household tasks. Fight the urge to do laundry or clean your closet. If it isn’t a task you normally do on vacation, you shouldn’t be doing it on a staycation either. Descide what you want to achieve. Is your goal to have a relaxing, donothing staycation at home? Or do you want to get out of the house and enjoy new experiences together? Staycations are supposed to be fun, not stressful, so be sure to customize yours to meet your family’s unique goals. EC Parent Magazine • July+August 2017 • 13

By Cindy Hudson

Hammock Weather Hammock weather is here again, which means that I can, in theory, lie in my hammock. The hammock hibernates from fall to spring in the garden shed along with shovels, hoes, rakes, and our mower, and I can almost feel it breathe a sigh of contentment when I revive it each summer. I shake out the dust along with the previous year’s dead leaves and spiders, hang the hammock, and pat it lovingly with a promise to be back soon. Then I turn my back, grab a bucket, and get to work in the yard. I’m the one who wanted a hammock in the first place. When I suggested we buy one, my husband—who knows me well— said, “Why waste our money on something we’ll never use?” But the hammock fit my longing to wile away the lazy summer days. I saw myself lying in the shade, gently rocking in the summer breeze, and

falling asleep while reading a book. So we bought it. Every summer since, I have unbundled it from storage and hung it beneath the trees. Every summer since, I have eyed it longingly as I have run up the stairs with a load of laundry or vacuumed the dining room or stepped outside to fill the bird

feeder. And every summer since, I have spent the whole season waiting in vain for the right moment to snatch a break in the hammock. I always say that I’ll go out as soon as the chores on my list are done. But when will that be? As far ahead as I can see, I will be matching socks, flipping pancakes, Continued on page 16

14 • July+August 2017 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Continued from page 14

scraping plates, cleaning bathrooms, and feeding cats. My children have outgrown clothes that lay forgotten in a stack to be ironed, while pants and shirts needing replacement buttons pile up on the chair in our spare bedroom. There’s always some chore niggling at the back of my mind telling me I can’t have a break yet. So I find myself gazing wistfully at the hammock, wondering why I don’t put the work aside, shove open the back

My daughters also have embraced the hammock entirely. They play in it most summer afternoons, swinging wildly and screaming when they almost tip over. They invite friends to hang out with them in the hammock and wile away the hours in its embrace. Sometimes they read a book or fall asleep in it; I suspect they feel no guilt over that. I have tried to follow my family’s lead, yet every time I head for the door, book

Then I realized that, in fact, I’m probably being a poor role model. My daughters need to see their mom taking time for herself once in a while. They need to see that the world doesn’t stop just because I do occasionally. And just as importantly, I need to allow myself to relax. So today as I threw another T-shirt on the never-ending heap, I paused to sneak a peek at the hammock through the window. As though sensing my gaze, it began to

door, and grab a few hours of fleeting pleasure to capture the sweet, somewhat guilty bliss of an afternoon slumber in the shade. My husband, whose list of chores also never ends, seems to know when to quit, for I catch him snoozing in the hammock occasionally. He looks so content swaying from side to side. I’m jealous of his ability to relax even when there is weeding to be done or a compost pile to turn or roses to clip. Why can’t I do that?

in hand, my feet hesitate on the threshold just long enough for me to remember that dinner needs to be started or bills must be paid, and I turn back. Yesterday as I piled up the laundry, I also piled up thoughts about why I have trouble snatching a few moments alone. First I reasoned that I’m a good role model, a perfect mom who is always thinking of what she can do for her family. I’m on the job 24/7 without complaint or in need of a break.

sway gently, beckoning me over. I put down the shirt, stood up, and stretched. Then, before I could think of a reason not to, I walked out the door, headed over to the hammock, and climbed in. v

Cindy Hudson is a freelance writer who is determined to relax in her hammock more than once this summer.

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Heat Rash 101 Common, itchy, and harmless—heat rash can be a pain. Here’s how to spot, treat, and prevent this warm-weather ailment. As temperatures rise, so do incidents of heat rash, also known as prickly heat. Heat rash is caused when sweat gets trapped in the skin by clogged sweat glands or pores. That backup inflames surrounding tissue, causing a pink rash that can be uncomfortable. It may look like a spread of pimples or dots and typically itches or feels like pins and needles.

Don’t Panic Even though it may feel bad, heat rash is typically harmless. It most commonly occurs in places where sweat tends to accumulate, such as the neck, armpit, chest, elbow creases, groin or area under the breasts. As a result of this sweat accumulation, those areas may become too warm for comfort due to friction or clothing. To treat heat rash, remove excess layers of clothing and move to a cool, dry spot. Avoid using creams, powders, or other topical treatments. They may make clogging worse and trigger prolonged discomfort. Heat rash often clears up on its own within a few days. If you notice any signs of infection, such as fever, pus, or red lines leading away from the rash, see a doctor immediately. The same goes for cases that don’t improve in three to five days or that spread to other parts of the body.

Prevent Repeat Rashes Get to the bottom of what causes heat rash to prevent repeat cases of this itchy condition. Dress yourself and youir children in

18 • July+August 2017 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

just enough cool, loose-fitting clothing to be comfortable. This will help prevent sweating and the rash. If you do get sweaty, make sure your skin gets a chance to dry thoroughly.

Heat rash can be a sign that you are spending too much time in a hot environment. Heat rash can be a sign that you are spending too much time in a hot environment. While a rash is a mild side effect of heat, other issues such as cramps, heat exhaustion, and dehydration are very serious. Limit the amount of time spent in excessively hot temperatures, either outdoors or in the sun. Take frequent breaks in cool, shady environments. Fans, air conditioning, and the occasional cool bath or shower can help. If you live in a hot, humid place, heat rash may be hard to prevent all the time. Do your best to stay cool and dry, and see a doctor if a basic rash turns into something more serious. v

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FAMILY

BUILDERS Strong Families Don’t Just Happen

Spend a little time talking to each other every day—take our Family Chatter challenge. Have some messy fun in the kitchen or at a craft table making some of our featured Snacks & Crafts. Help your children stay active this summer with our Teach Your Kids Something New. Discover the many benefits of unstructured time in That’s Good to Know. ENJOY LIFE—TOGETHER!

31 34

Visit Us Online! ItsYourMagazine.com

Eating dinner around the family table and long family conversations are time-honored traditions. If your family is like ours, however, you’ll agree that it’s not always simple. Our FamilyChatter Challenge is simple— just do your best. Here are some simple questions that will hopefully inspire your family to enjoy great conversations whenever, however, you can. Enjoy!

Live, Laugh, Love, and TALK TOGETHER! If you could speak to the entire world, what would you choose to say?

o Are you confident when making big decisions? Do you go it alone or seek advice from friends and family before deciding? o Would you

o What type

of car, animal, and food best match your personality? Explain your choices. o What are your favorite activities? What life skills are you gaining from these activities? What skills would you like to develop further?

o What are you enjoying most about summer? What’s still on your wish list to do before summer ends?

rather give up TV, chocolate, or friends?

o If your family had a motto to describe it, what would your family motto be? Explain.

o What are three things you’ve learned this summer about a friend, a family member, or life in general?

your best friend say are your best and worst qualities?

o If aliens came and beamed up three people, whom do you wish they would take?

o What types of physical activities do you do? What changes can you make to improve your quality of life?

o What is your favorite family meal, board game, and outside activity? How often do you enjoy these things?

o What would

o When

life gets stressful, what do you do to help yourself relax?

o Would you like to experience living in a different state? If so, why, what state, and what do you find interesting about the state you chose? o What

are your mom’s and dad’s greatest talents? What are yours? o How far back can you remember? What is your earliest memory, and how does it make you feel?

UNPLUG

es M e ln y k H in B y C h ri s ta

Unstructured Time

Fosters Better Whether you want to become a stronger, more intuitive communicator or you’re trying to raise one, free time spent unplugged can make a big difference. Here’s why.

Increased self-awareness. Time alone or unplugged helps us pursue personal interests and develop more clarity about who and what we want in our lives. That sense of self-reliance, confidence, and independence comes through in how we interact with others. We’re better able to advocate for our needs and those of others because we’ve taken time to contemplate and clearly understand those needs.

Better sleep. We can’t focus on others when we’re sleep deprived. According to the National Sleep Foundation, 72 percent of children ages six to 17 sleep with electronics in their bedrooms. The lights and sounds these devices emit disrupt quality

Connection

sleep and can result in up to an hour of sleep lost per night. Remove electronics from your bedroom and your children’s bedrooms.

Remove electronics from your bedroom and your children’s bedrooms. More attentive connection. A 2013 study in the journal of Environment and Behavior suggests that by simply having your phone sitting on the table or in your hand during a conversation, you reduce the quality of your interaction with others. Stash your phone away during face-to-face conversation. And consider choosing one day a week when the whole family takes a “digital Sabbath,” or a

24-hour break from technology. “The Sabbath increases your ability to concentrate on cool intricate tasks, to experience and appreciate the uniqueness of particular moments, to focus more on the people around you,” writes Alex Soojung-Kim Pang in his book The Distraction Addiction: Getting the Information You Need and the Communication You Want, Without Enraging Your Family, Annoying Your Colleagues, and Destroying Your Soul. “Paying attention is critical for relationships.”

Improved mental health. Attempting to engage with text messages, online interactions, phone calls, and emails in the midst of family demands can cause stress and anxiety. “Chronic distractions erode your sense of having control of your life,” Pang says. Increase your sense of calm by focusing on one task or person at a time. And Continued on page 27

24 • July+August 2017 • 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 Hold her hand while you’re at the grocery store or in the car. Take a picture of her on your phone when you think she’s being cute with the kids or any other time. Open the door for her. Bring the classic gentleman back. Remind her that she’s beautiful. You can’t tell her this enough. Give her your undivided attention when she wants to talk. Make sure your children speak to her and treat her in respectful ways. Tell her what you loved most about her when you first met and what you love most about her today. Make a just-for-fun bucket list with her of all the things you’d like to do with her in the next year.

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

Send her sweet texts throughout the week. Moms are always busy—run some of her errands for her.

Email us your ideas! info@itsyourmagazine.com ItsYourMagazine.com • EC Parent Magazine • July+August 2017 • 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 Suggest an after-dinner walk through the neighborhood. Don’t just tell him you love him—tell him why you love him. Let go of the small stuff. We all have annoying habits and preferences that are different from our spouse’s. Go out of your way to help him do something he needs to do, something he dislikes doing, or merely something he’d appreciate. Text him and tell him specifically what you love doing with him. Try to make the first few minutes he comes home from work a positive experience for him. Ease into the negative. Sit with him while he’s watching TV— even if the program doesn’t interest you.

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

Carefully choose your words. Remember to “speak the truth in love.” As you walk by, put your hand on his shoulder, and give him a kiss on the cheek. Buy him a gift certificate to his favorite lunch spot, and put it in his wallet. Email us your ideas! info@itsyourmagazine.com 26 • July+August 2017 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Continued from page 24

occasionally play hooky from extracurricular activities, which teaches kids that it’s OK to honor their individual needs for rest and disengagement.

More play time. Free, unplugged play gives kids a chance to put their imaginations to work and try new ideas. Instead of telling them something won’t work or supplying answers to their questions, let them investigate, research ideas, and experiment with materials on their own. Multiple studies show that kids who receive regular, unstructured time to play develop creativity, self-confidence, problem-solving skills, and independence. With these skills they‘ll believe that they’re good enough without having to seek external approval, a need that is rampant in a “like me” culture.

Enhanced curiosity. Researchers from Brown University recently found that the more time kids spend watching TV, using their smartphones, or playing video games, the less likely they are to show initiative and complete tasks like homework. Even more worrisome, they exhibit less curiosity and interest in learning overall.

Screen-free time gives us all a chance to consider questions like, what am I curious about? How can I solve a problem I’m dealing with? What brings me joy? Who could I talk to about this? How can I learn more?

Richer conversations. For many young adults, spontaneous conversation in which they can’t control their messages in a text or email feels intense or risky. According to Sherry Turkle in her book Reclaiming Conversation: The Power of Talk in a Digital Age, some employers vet job candidates based on their ability to converse face to face and over the phone. Play conversation games such as “What if . . . ?” or “Would you rather . . . ?” to make impromptu conversation fun and interesting. Establish sacred, unplugged spaces, like around the dinner table and in the car, to allow for spontaneous conversation. Side-by-side conversation feels less intense and gives kids the courage to broach issues that are bugging or worrying them. Grab the crayons and color together. Go on a walk. With space and uninterrupted conversation opportunities, you can listen to each other better and grow closer as a family. v

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Cooking kits with recipes, games, and kid-sized culinary tools (ages 5–10)

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Individually packaged STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) projects (ages 3–10)

TECH HACKS THAT CAN HELP YOU UNPLUG

DID YOU KNOW?

Break Free (www.breakfree-app.com/)—App that monitors your phone and app usage, helping you grow more aware of your online behavior and how to better control phone usage

More than 70% of young smartphone owners check their device a few times an hour or more often, including 22% who admit to checking it every few minutes.

Offtime (offtime.co)—App that helps you control your connectivity so you can better concentrate on work, family, or personal time Spire (spire.io)—Wearable mindfulness and activity tracker that tracks breathing patterns, alerting you to anxiety and tension triggers

Most Americans believe they check their phones less often than they actually do.

QUIZ

Source: gallup.com

Q: W hich gender checks their phones more often per hour? Answer: Men (43% compared to 38% of women)

Q: D o iPhone users or Android users check in more frequently? Answer: iPhone users (44% compared to 39% of Android users)

Q: W hat percentage of Americans keeps their phone with them at all times during waking hours? A. 53%, B. 33%, C. 81% Answer: 81%

Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are parents to two digitally charmed children. Christa is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

ItsYourMagazine.com • EC Parent Magazine • July+August 2017 • 27

Teach Your Kids Something New!

IDEAS FOR E T U N I M LAST TO PLAN A N E E T R U YO UMMER S E V I T C U CONSTR H a s ke ll B e th B y M y rn a

No More Lazy Days of Summer Picture this: your teen is sprawled out on the couch with a bag of Doritos in hand and the TV channel set to MTV. What’s wrong with this picture? Do you envision yourself being frustrated by your teen’s laziness all summer long? Relaxation after a stressful and frenzied school year is probably much needed, but after a few days of rest, your teen should start thinking about taking advantage of their free time and expanding their horizons. Jobs are scarce these days, and many internship opportunities are filled in late winter. However, June is not too late for your teen to plan a constructive summer.

Do Something When teenagers use their free time to expand their knowledge base by volunteering, working, or taking classes, college-admissions officers and future employers take notice. Carole Jabbawy, Ed.D., founder and director of Internship Connection in Newton, Massachusetts, says, “An internship or volunteer experience is the first step to building a resume. Teens gain career exposure which will be very helpful in sorting out a college major.” Teens who plan to seek employment right after high school will also reap benefits from field experience including:

• Resume building • Exploration of interests • Making connections in a specific industry • Setting themselves apart from the crowd

Last-Minute Opportunities Teens should seek assistance from their school’s guidance office. Small businesses, hospitals, churches, and nursing homes are always looking for extra help and usually welcome teen applicants. For last-minute opportunities, it’s best to canvas your neighborhood and ask about positions in person. Jabbawy says, “While June may be too late for some internships, non-profits are still quite busy in June and July. Late spring is a busy time for fundraising events and extra hands are always welcome.” Finding a paying job for the summer at this late date might be difficult; however, motivated teens can still find openings. Full-time employees often have summer vacation plans, so part-time positions become available. “Business owners tell me that they don’t have enough time in the day to keep up with social networking,” Jabbawy explains. “They would love a teen to work on a project promoting their business through Facebook, blogging, or Twitter.” Summer classes are great for teens who want to improve their academic resume. Jim Sirianni, Ph.D., assistant dean and director of Summer College at Stanford University, explains, “Very often Continued on page 30

28 • July+August 2017 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Continued from page 28

universities will allow prospective students to enroll in summer courses right up until the first day of class. Students should check with multiple institutions in their area to see when summer classes begin, as some start weeks later than others. Large institutions tend to have a summer session office that oversees summer course offerings, while the registrar’s office is a good starting point for inquiries at smaller colleges.” Many colleges offer competitive-scholars programs, academic camps, or traditional classes that high-school students can take in the summer. It’s imperative that students check to see if there is an age minimum, a required placement test, or documents that their high school needs to submit before applying.

Volunteer! Volunteers are rarely turned away, especially in a down economy. Plus, teens can feel good about making a difference. Carole Jabbawy agrees. “It’s wonderfully satisfying to volunteer for an organization that you care about.” Teens should search for positions that will help guide them toward their long-term goals. For example, aspiring veterinarians might seek a position at an animal shelter rather than a restaurant. Jabbawy advises, “An internship or volunteer experience begins the process of creating a professional network and can lead to a paid position in the future.” Encourage your teen to ask questions and learn as much as they can while volunteering. Be sure your teen understands that

showing up on time and being dependable is important even though they are not getting paid. Places to look for volunteer opportunities:

• Hospitals and medical clinics • Homeless shelters • Libraries • Animal shelters • Youth centers/camps Entrepreneurship It’s never too late to start your own business! Possible entrepreneurial ventures include lawn mowing, house painting, caring for pets while people are on vacation, fixing neighbors’ computers, or cooking for the elderly. Teens can distribute fliers around their neighborhoods to get the word out.

Still stumped for ideas? Try these websites: www.dosomething.org www.volunteermatch.org Myrna Beth Haskell is an award-winning author, columnist, and feature writer. Her work has appeared in national and regional publications across the US as well as internationally (www.sanctuary-magazine.com). She is also cofounder and managing editor of Sanctuary (www.sanctuary-magazine.com).

PENSACOLA LITTLE THEATRE CLASSES FOR AGES 4 THROUGH ADULT ,

ALL LEVELS OF EXPERIENCE ARE WELCOME BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS BUILD SELF -CONFIDENCE HAVE FUN

Fresh Lemonade YOU NEED 1 cup fresh lemon juice (approximately 5–6 large lemons squeezed and strained) 1 cup granulated sugar strawberries cut into large chunks lemons cut into circles— 3–4 circles for each tumbler

• • • •

• water • ice • 1-gallon pitcher or plastic jug with watertight lid • clear tumblers • cutting board and sharp knife • strainer

DIRECTIONS Pour lemon juice into pitcher. Add sugar, and fill pitcher halfway with water. Place watertight lid on pitcher. Shake pitcher vigorously until all the sugar is dissolved. Add more water until pitcher is full, and shake again. (You can taste the lemonade and add more sugar or juice as desired. Stir well). Chill. Fill each tumbler half full with diced strawberries and 2–3 lemon circles (reserve one circle of lemon for each tumbler). Add ice and lemonade. For each tumbler, cut the edge of remaining lemon circle, and slide the circle onto the edge of the tumbler as a garnish.

• • • •

A fresh and delicious way to celebrate your summer days

Banana-Split Kabobs YOU NEED large bamboo skewers whole, fresh pineapple whole, fresh, washed strawberries bananas cut into 1–inch chunks marshmallows chocolate candy wafers for

• • • • • •

candy making and fondue

• rainbow sprinkles • cutting board and sharp knife • dinner plate • shallow microwaveable dish • soup spoon • waxed paper

DIRECTIONS Pour sprinkles onto dinner plate. Slide fruit onto skewers, beginning and ending with a marshmallow and alternating with strawberries and bananas. In shallow microwaveable dish, melt chocolate wafers according to package directions. Use soup spoon to scoop melted chocolate, and dip one edge of each piece of fruit on skewers into chocolate in spoon. Immediately press chocolate side of fruit onto rainbow sprinkles. Set on waxed paper. Repeat for each skewer. Place skewers on waxed paper in refrigerator. Clean off plate. Cut pineapple in half lengthwise. Place cut side down on plate. Remove skewers from refrigerator just before serving. Poke pointed ends of skewers into pineapple.

• • • • • •

ItsYourMagazine.com • EC Parent Magazine • July+August 2017 • 31

Campfire Cupcakes INGREDIENTS 1 box cake mix, any flavor ingredients to make cupcakes according to mix directions large mixing bowl and electric mixer cupcake papers cupcake baking tin prepared white frosting

• • • • • •

• red and yellow food coloring • stick pretzels • toothpicks • mini marshmallows • pastry bag with star tip for frosting • spoon

DIRECTIONS Prepare and bake cupcakes following package instructions. Cool completely. Add food coloring to frosting to make a bright orange color. Spoon frosting into pastry bag. Starting at the top edge of the cupcake paper, squeeze frosting toward the center of each cake. Continue around each cupcake until top is covered with lines of frosting that peak in the center like a campfire. Press stick pretzels into frosting to make fire logs. Slide two mini marshmallows onto one end of a toothpick. Gently press toothpick into flame frosting to simulate marshmallows being toasted.

• • • • •

Perfect for your summertime campouts and BBQs

Snack Wraps YOU NEED large tortillas in two colors (spinach and tomato-flavored work well—each tortilla makes about 6 slices) soft plain cream cheese cucumbers (1 for every 2–3 tortillas) thinly sliced turkey

• • • •

• red bell peppers (1 for every 2–3 tortillas) • table knife • sharp knife and cutting board • decorative toothpicks or cocktail spears • serving tray

DIRECTIONS Thinly slice cucumbers into circles. Also thinly slice bell peppers. Use table knife to spread cream cheese to cover one side of each tortilla. Arrange a single layer of sliced cucumber on top of cream cheese, then add a single layer of turkey and then add a single layer of bell pepper slices. Roll each tortilla into a log. Cut each tortilla into 1-inch-wide sections. Secure the end of tortilla on each slice with a toothpick or cocktail spear. Place slices on serving tray. Chill if desired. (Note: these can be made ahead of time but should not sit more than an hour or two before serving or the tortilla becomes soggy.)

• • • • •

32 • July+August 2017 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

www.childcarenetwork.com/programs/summercamp

Patriotic Lanterns MATERIALS LED tea lights a 1-pint mason jar with metal ring for each tea light (remove the lid covering the opening of the jar, but leave the metal ring to protect the edge of the jar)

• •

• twine • 1 ½–inch wide patriotic ribbon • narrow wired patriotic garland • scissors • wire clippers • optional: tongs

INSTRUCTIONS For each jar, cut one 11-inch length and one 14-inch length of twine. Tie a knot at each end of each 11-inch length. Using the 11-inch length of knotted twine for a U-shaped handle, tightly tie the 14-inch length of twine around the neck of the jar over the 11-inch knotted length, just above the knots. Cut a 30-inch length of patriotic ribbon for each jar. Tie the ribbon around the neck of each jar into a bow (over the twine tied around jar’s neck.) Turn on tea lights, and place one in the bottom of each jar. (Optional: use tongs to grab artificial flame on light and lower it into jar.) Cut a 24-inch length of wired garland for each jar. Wind each length of garland into a spiral, and place it inside a jar so it surrounds the tea light. Hang your lanterns in a tree, or use on a picnic table as a centerpiece.

• • • • • •

Summer Hats MATERIALS 1 brightly colored hat for each child—baseball caps or floppy sun hats work best hot glue gun and glue sticks materials to decorate hats: silk

• • •

flowers; silk foliage; 6-inch wide tulle ribbon; patches; pins; small plastic critters such as lizards, bugs, or fish wire clippers

•

INSTRUCTIONS Floppy hats may be tied with tulle ribbon (use about 6-foot lengths of ribbon, and spot glue ribbon to hat in front and back). Embellish hat with silk flowers (clip wire stems short, and bend sharp ends under before gluing flowers to hat). Ball caps may be decorated with silk leaves and plastic critters (securely glue feet and/or bellies of critters to top and brim of hat). Patches and pins can also be glued or pinned to hat as desired.

• •

High fashion for those silly days of summer

34 • July+August 2017 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Fish Puppet MATERIALS brightly colored oven mitt (with no pictures, but patterns and stripes will work) stiffened craft felt

• •

• 3-D fabric paint • 2-40 mm wiggle eyes • scissors • hot glue gun and glue sticks

INSTRUCTIONS Use glue gun to attach wiggle eyes to mitt. Cut stiff craft felt to make a dorsal fin and 2 pectoral fins (top and sides). Use 3-D paint to decorate one side of fish puppet. Let dry overnight and then repeat with other side of puppet. Use glue gun to attach fins to mitt (this works best if you lay the mitt on a flat surface, like a cookie sheet). Let glue cool completely.

• • • •

We love creating fun crafts from everyday objects like these fish puppets and this garden wall. Materials should be easy to find at your local craft and hardware stores.

Garden Wall MATERIALS 6 cement blocks (14 inches long with 2 holes going through the inside) acrylic craft paint in a variety of colors painter’s tape or masking tape

• • •

• stencils of basic shapes or patterns • paper plates • variety of sizes of paint brushes

INSTRUCTIONS Arrange your 6 blocks to create a pyramid. Mark an X on each exposed surface with pencil. Use a pencil or tape to sketch or mask off a basic design on each exposed surface. Squeeze paint onto paper plates, and use brushes to paint each design. (Note: you can stencil instead of drawing. Let paint for one layer dry before trying to add a new layer of paint.) You can also paint your child’s hands or feet and stamp their shapes onto the side of a block. Remove any tape as soon as you are done painting to expose unpainted areas. Let dry completely. When dry, stack blocks at your permanent location for wall— the holes in the blocks on the second and third stories should line up with the holes below them. Fill holes of bottom stories of each multiple-story section with sand. Fill top layer of each story with potting soil. Plant up to two flowering plants in the top of each hole (6 holes total). Water thoroughly so dirt and sand settle well.

• • •

ItsYourMagazine.com • EC Parent Magazine • July+August 2017 • 35

TEEN Helpful Advice from One Teen to Another!

TALK

Welcome to ADULTHOOD? You are 18! After so many years of waiting, that magical birthday has finally arrived to make you an adult. Nirvana has been achieved—no more rules, no more being told that you can’t do something. Freedom has come, and you can do whatever you desire whenever you want! All the privileges you’ve been denied due to lack of parental permission are gone forever. What a great and liberating feeling, right? Seriously, when I turned 18 last year, I experienced mostly positive aspects of my new age, such as having no bedtime or curfew, being able to eat cookies for breakfast—you get the idea. I was able to make my own decisions about where I wanted to go and what I wanted to do. Life was great. That is, until I tried to plan a trip with just my friends and me.

I was able to make my own decisions about where I wanted to go and what I wanted to do. Nirvana quickly disappeared before my eyes. I was suddenly hit with the reality that I had to be over 21 to rent a room and 25 years of age to rent a car. This ruined everything, as I was forced to go to my dad and ask him to take the trip with us. Yuck, a parent chaperoning my friends and me as if we were still kids and not newly minted adults! Another roadblock came my way when trying to pay for college. When the high price of the school I had chosen forced me to look into obtaining a student loan, I was told that I didn’t have the credit history or “worthiness” to obtain the loan. So it was back to my dad—again! I was baffled at this. It made me extremely angry that society had a long list of expectations to lay upon the

shoulders of young adults, holding us to new standards of behavior and responsibility when we turned 18, yet it would not truly give us the tools and freedom to grow, learn, make a few mistakes, and learn from those mistakes. We’re apparently mature enough to go to war and die for our country but not mature enough to get a hotel room, a rental car, or a loan.

I have learned that being 18 isn’t as glamorous as I expected it to be. Having lived through these humiliating experiences as well as a few others, I have learned that being 18 isn’t as glamorous as I expected it to be. Despite how much you want to break away from your parents as soon as you become an adult, the reality is that you’ll most likely need their help transitioning into adulthood—more than you know. v

Shailey SENIOR, AGE 18

36 • July+August 2017 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

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TRANSPORTATION FOR ANY OCCASION • • • • • •

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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.

Blue Wahoos Stadium 351 W Cedar St, Pensacola, 934-8444 In December 2010, Quint and Rishy Studer announced their purchase of the Carolina Mudcats, the Double-A affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds. The

38 • July+August 2017 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Double-A team will move from Zebulon, North Carolina, to Pensacola beginning in 2012. The Pensacola franchise will remain in Minor League Baseball’s Southern League.

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 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.

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

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 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.

Pensacola Museum of Art 407 S Jefferson St, Pensacola, 432-6247 The Pensacola Museum of Art is the only art museum in the city of Pensacola, 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

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

Sam’s Fun City 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.

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

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 moves 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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July

Family

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

6 7 13 14 20 21 27 28

August T

S 1 2 3 4 5 8 9 10 11 12 15 16 17 18 19 22 23 24 25 26 29 30 31

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!

Seasonal 4th of July Celebration

Sun, July 2–Tues, July 4, 2017 – HarborWalk Village (7:00 p.m.) Celebrate Independence Day at HarborWalk Village with live music, fire spinning, and fireworks over Destin Harbor! For schedules and more information, please visit www. fwbchamber.org.

street performers, and more! Expect to end the night with a patriotic fireworks show and more than $80,000 in funds donated to local non-profit organizations. For more information, please call 850-337-8700.

Red, White, and Baytowne

Tues, July 4, 2017 – Baytowne Wharf (6:00 p.m.) Head to Baytowne Wharf for their Red, White, and Baytowne celebration, where you can enjoy lawn games, inflatables, kids’ crafts, and face paintings! Later enjoy live music on the Events Plaza Stage by Donovan Keith and the Funky Feat at 7:00 p.m., followed by a fireworks display that will light up the night sky at 9:15 p.m. For more information, please visit www.baytownewharf.com.

The Arts

series! Children will have the opportunity to explore acting, singing, and movement in an energetic, nurturing environment that fosters creativity and collaboration. Campers will prepare material throughout the week and present it to parents on the final day of class. For more information on the different camps available, please call 850-684-0323.

Sister Act – NWF Summer Musical

Wed, July 19–Sat, July 22, 2017 – Mattie Kelly Arts Center The Fine and Performing Arts Division of Northwest Florida State College has announced Sister Act as their 2017 summer musical! Sister Act is a delightful musical comedy in which a disco diva turned nun uses her singing talents to inspire the church choir and the community. For tickets, show times, and more information, please visit www. mattiekellyartscenter.org.

Art Exhibit: Tales and Myths: The Paintings of Katherine Ace Mon, May 15–Sat, July 22, 2017 – McIlroy Gallery (10:00 a.m.)

Smoke on the Coast

Mon, July 3, 2017 – Destin (5:00 p.m.) Have a fun-filled day celebrating Independence Day at the 7th Annual Smoke on the Coast BBQ and Fireworks Festival! Seventeen non-profits and barbecue aficionados will light up their grills and prepare their best dishes in hopes of winning up to $15,000 for their partner charities. There will be tastings, live music, kids’ activities,

The Mattie Kelly Arts Center Galleries will present a national touring exhibition, Tales and Myths: The Paintings of Katherine Ace from May 30 until July 22 in both the McIlroy and the Holzhauer Galleries. The exhibition of works by Portland, Oregon-based artist Katherine Ace takes fairy tales and retells them in large-scale mixed-media paintings. For more information, please visit www.mattiekellyartscenter.org.

Emerald Coast Theatre Company Kids’ Camp Mon, July 10–Sat, July 29, 2017 – Bayou Arts Center (9:00 a.m.) The Emerald Coast Theatre Company has launched its 2017 summer theater camp

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Jimmy McManus! Limited seating is available, and tickets cost $25 per person. For more information, please call 850-424-0622.

Nashville Songwriters Florida Sunshine Tour Wed, July 12 and Wed, August 2, 2017 – HarborWalk Village (8:00 p.m.)

Nashville singers/songwriters are bringing their soulful, gritty, country melodies to Destin Harbor for a live concert on the main stage! This offers an opportunity to enjoy the hits heard on the radio every day performed acoustically in concert by the songwriters who wrote them! For more information, please visit www.emeraldgrande.com.

4th Annual Fudpoker Run Jet Ski Classic

Runs, Walks & More 38th Annual Marvin DeBolt Daily News Junior Golf Classic

Wed, July 12–Thurs, July 13, 2017 – Niceville The 38th Annual Marvin DeBolt Daily News Junior Golf Classic is open to any junior golfers between the ages of eight and 19. All proceeds from the tournament will benefit the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center. For more information, please call Chelsea Fox at 850-833-9237.

Sat, July 22, 2017 – Fort Walton Beach (8:00 a.m.) It’s that time of year for the 4th Annual Fudpoker Run Jet Ski Classic! This familyfriendly event goes 70 miles around the best bay venues and is the only poker run in the area that caters to the watercraft demographics. There will be a prize for the best top-three hands, and the best hand will win a 2017 Yamaha EX Jet Ski, donated by KM Cycle and Marine. All the proceeds will benefit Children in Crisis and OCSO Star Charity. For more information, please visit www.crestviewchamber.com.

Crab-Cake Cook-off

Capstone’s Annual Wine a Little, Dine a Lot Sat, August 5, 2017 – Pensacola (5:30 p.m.)

Enjoy an evening with a five-course meal prepared by local celebrity chef Gus Silivos carefully paired with the most exquisite wines from Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits! Tickets are limited. Proceeds from this event will help support Capstone’s children’s therapy and educational programs in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. For more information, please visit www.pensacolachamber.org.

Reoccurring Local Sunday Cinema

Every Sunday – Baytowne Wharf (8:00 p.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, please visit www.baytownewharf.com.

Hydroflight Mondays

Every Monday – Baytowne Wharf 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, please visit www.baytownewharf.com.

Wed, July 26, 2017 – Pensacola (6:00 p.m.) Head to Pensacola and watch restaurants, chefs, and organizations showcase their best crab-cake recipe in hopes of gaining bragging rights for the tastiest crab cakes in town! Enjoy live music, a silent auction, an art sale, and all the crab cakes you can eat. Proceeds from this event will benefit the Arc Gateway. For more information, please call 850-434-2638.

Summer Wild Summer Camp

Mon, July 31–Fri, August 4, 2017 – Destin (9:00 a.m.)

6th Annual Paddle at the Porch

Sat, August 19th, 2017 – Destin (9:00 a.m.) Paddle at the Porch showcases the beautiful emerald water and white sandy shores of Destin behind one of its most loved restaurants, the Back Porch Seafood and Oyster Bar! It features a kids’ fun race, a one-mile beginner ride, a three-mile recreational race, and a sixmile elite race, followed by awards. For more information, please call 850-837-6241.

Sounds Fun Cooking with the Chef

Tues, July 11, 2017 – HarborWalk Village (12:00 p.m.) Enjoy an intimate dining room setting and a detailed and entertaining afternoon with chef

At the Summer Wild Summer Camp, campers will be immersed in the world of native wildlife. They will have the opportunity to explore marine creatures living on the shore, experience daily animal encounters, and even practice rescuing a life-size dolphin! For more information, please call 850-830-3933.

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Maximum Magic Dinner Theater Featuring Noah and Heather Wells

Every Monday and Wednesday – Fort Walton Beach Head to Fudpuckers on Okaloosa Island for some family fun! Illusionist of the year, Noah Wells, presents Maximum Magic with mind-blowing illusions, hilarious comedy, special effects, unbelievable mentalism, and more! This familyfriendly show is a fast-paced show with audience participation for all ages. For more information, please visit www.destinchamber.com.

Poetry and Music Jam

Every second Tuesday of each month – Crestview (6:00 p.m.) Poets and musicians are invited to bring their work and instruments to a free-form, openmic poetry reading and jam session. For more information, please call 850-682-4432.

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Okaloosa Island Fireworks Series

Every Wednesday – Fort Walton Beach (9:00 p.m.) Head to Okaloosa Island every Wednesday at 9:00 p.m. through August 9 for the Boardwalk’s fireworks series, set off from the Okaloosa Island Pier! For more information, please visit www.fwbchamber.org.

Magical Thursday

Every Thursday – Baytowne Wharf Watch as featured pirate Captain Davy takes you on an adventure with two magic shows onstage! For show times and more information, please visit www.baytownewharf.com.

Throwback Thursday

Last Thursday of each month – Baytowne Wharf (7:00 p.m.) Baytowne is throwing back to some of your favorite classic films on the big screen! Head to Baytowne the last Thursday of every month starting in August for a blast from the past. This event is free. For more information, please visit www.baytownewharf.com.

Red, White, and Blue Hero Celebration

Every Thursday – HarborWalk Village (7:00 p.m.) Enjoy a weekly celebration of the American war hero! Head to HarborWalk Village for a presentation of the colors, ceremony celebration, WWII vintage airshow, and live music. Close out the evening with fireworks over the Destin Harbor and fire spinning at 9:00 p.m.

PAWS

Contact Alicia Sikes at 850-243-1525.

Salvation Army

Contact Lisa Martinez at 850-243-4531.

Habitat for Humanity

Contact Mark McEnaney at 850-685-0686.

Florosa Fire Department

Contact Tom Peele at 850-581-2900.

VFW

Contact Harvey Eckoff at 850-244-3834.

Goodwill

Contact John at 850-837-8516.

Destin Community Center

Contact Lisa Firth at 850-654-5184.

Waterfront Rescue Mission

Contact Tina or Sharron at 850-244-2726.

Destin History & Fishing Museum Contact Kathy Blue at 850-837-6611.

Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge

Contact Susan Leivelle at 850-650-1880.

Boys & Girls Club

Contact Rita Cummins at 850-862-1332.

Rock the Docks

Every Saturday – HarborWalk Village (7:00 p.m.)

Boomin’ Tuesday

Every Tuesday – Baytowne Wharf (7:00 p.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 9:15 p.m. This event is free. For more information, please visit www. baytownewharf.com.

Make this summer a hit! Rock the docks every Saturday on the Destin Harbor with concerts from 7:00–9:00 p.m. These events are free of charge. For more information, please visit www.destinchamber.com.

Fat Tuesday Parade

Every Tuesday – HarborWalk Village (7:00 p.m.) Head to HarborWalk Village and watch as it transforms into the “Big Easy”! Enjoy floats, costumes, live music, street performers, and float riders tossing beads. For more information, please visit www.emeraldgrande.com.

GulfWind Paddle and Surf Wednesday Night BOTE Board Demo Event Every Wednesday – Santa Rosa Beach (6:00 p.m.) Socialize with other paddleboard enthusiasts every Wednesday evening, and take time to demo ride the entire fleet of BOTE Boards! For more information, call Steve with GulfWind Paddle and Surf at 850-200-8375.

Wednesday Night Concert Series

Every Wednesday – Baytowne Wharf (7:00 p.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, please visit www. baytownewharf.com.

Volunteer Opportunity Place

Contact CC Fearson at 850-659-3190.

Socks

Contact Nikole Wood at 850-863-8999.

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ATE EXPLORE ENCOUNTER EDUCATE EXPLORE ENCOUNTER ED RE ENCOUNTER EDUCATE EXPLORE ENCOUNTER EDUCATE EX NTER EDUCATE EXPLORE ENCOUNTER EDUCATE EXPLORE ENC ATE EXPLORE ENCOUNTER EDUCATE EXPLORE ENCOUNTER ED RE ENCOUNTER EDUCATE EXPLORE ENCOUNTER EDUCATE EX NTER EDUCATE EXPLORE ENCOUNTER EDUCATE EXPLORE ENC ATE EXPLORE ENCOUNTER EDUCATE EXPLORE ENCOUNTER ED RE ENCOUNTER EDUCATE EXPLORE ENCOUNTER EDUCATE EX ENCOUNTER For more information about these programs and more, call or visit our website. Discover the difference a hands-on encounter 850.664.1261 • www.ECScience.org with science can make! Seasonal Hours: Tue.-Sat.: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Find touchable, workable exhibits that teach about natural phenomena and basic scientific principles for children and families. • Robotics Exhibits • Live Reptile & Amphibian Room • Live Birds • Brain Games • Field Trips • Planetarium Nights • “Science of...”(Monthly event series geared towards adults)

31 SW Memorial Pkwy. Fort Walton Beach

Have Your Party at the Science Center! Choose from one of our four themes: Dino Dig • Animal Safari • Mad Scientist • Space Party Packages Available Saturdays from 11am-1pm or 1:30pm-3:30pm

Party includes admission for 12 children and two adults, a science activity, use of the private party room, a party host to assist with party details, party favors for each child, setup/cleanup, decorations, use of fridge and microwave, paper products and drinks. Call today to plan your party!

First Saturday of the month 10 am-2 pm • Ages 9-14 Our Robotics Workshops will cover a range of robotics skills and concepts to help introduce students to robotics and give them the skills needed to compete in Lego League.