Jax4Kids June/July 2023

more thrills

Make the most of every moment together as you zip down three towering water slides, splash into luxurious pools, or explore acres of stunning garden atriums. It’s the summer of more at Gaylord Palms.

GaylordPalms.com

more relaxation

Dear Readers,

Summer at last!

We’ve assembled a guide to help you make the most of your summer months. On pages 12 through 19, you’ll find summer movies, theatre & arts events, sporting events, deals, hands-on fun, tips for camping with kids, and much more. You can also visit us online at Jax4Kids.com any time you want to find places to go and things to do with your kids this summer!

If you’re looking for volunteer opportunities for your teen this summer, turn to page 9.

This month, we’re celebrating Dads! Turn to page 4 for Father’s Day events and go to Jax4Kids.com for a full list.

Jacksonville-based best-selling author Jon Gordon shares ten ways to succeed with zero talent. It’s a great read for your graduating senior. For more wisdom and uplifting messages from Jon, visit his blog at jongordon. com.

Parents of toddlers with peanut allergies will be relieved to hear that scientists are getting closer to a solution that protects toddlers with peanut allergies. A new skin patch that helps children safely tolerate exposure to a small amount of the nuts has been developed and tested. See page 7 to learn more.

The DEA recently issued a warning to parents about fake pills and the way drug dealers are using social media to reach kids to buy them

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including emoji codes. Fentanyl is being pressed into fake pills and cut into street drugs at lethal doses. One pill can kill! Please turn to page 8 and read the warning and have a discussion with any child in your household that has a social media account.

The state of Florida has several sales tax holidays coming up to help you save on everything from appliances to fishing supplies, diapers and clothing for ages 5 and under, disaster preparedness products, and back-to-school items. For more information, see page 4.

Pediatric Nutrition Specialist Aurea Thompson shares some great information in this month’s Eating Well article (page 6), “Taking the Mystery Out of Gluten Free.”

Happy Father’s Day!

Have a wonderful summer!

Alison Peters-Carlson Editor

Alison Peters-Carlson Editor editor@jax4kids.com

Gabrielle Carlson Associate Editor info@jax4kids.com

Linda Bigbee Graphic Designer .............................. linda@jax4kids.com

Judi Fields Circulation Manager ............................... judi@jax4kids.com

Beth Canonica Advertising Sales ............................ beth@jax4kids.com

Mary Gustafson Business Manager mary@jax4kids.com

Florida Sales Tax Holidays

The 2023 Florida Legislature passed, and Governor DeSantis signed into law, various sales tax holidays. The Home Hardening sales tax exemption from the 2022 legislative session, continues through fiscal year 2023-24. The list below details the dates for each exemption period and various items that are tax-exempt during the period. For more information, visit floridarevenue.com/ salestaxholidays.

The sales tax holiday does not apply to the rental or repair of any of the qualifying items. Additionally, the sales tax holiday does not apply to sales in a theme park, entertainment complex, public lodging establishment, or airport.

Disaster Preparedness

Consumers can purchase qualifying disaster preparedness supplies exempt from tax during the 2023 Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday, May 27, 2023 – June 9, 2023, and August 26, 2023 – September 8, 2023.

• Reusable ice selling for $20 or less

• Dish soap and detergents, including powder, liquid, or pod detergents or rinse agents that can be used in dishwashers selling for $30 or less

• Cleaning or disinfecting wipes and sprays, hand sanitizer selling for $30 or less

• Portable self-powered radios, two-way radios, or weather-band radios selling for $50 or less

• Smoke detectors or smoke alarms selling for $70 or less

For a full list of qualifying items, visit floridarevenue.com/DisasterPrep.

Freedom Summer

Consumers can purchase qualifying recreation and outdoor items and admissions to entertainment and cultural events exempt from tax during the 2023 Freedom Summer Sales Tax Holiday, May 29, 2023 – September 4, 2023.

• Fishing supplies

• Camping supplies

• Children’s athletic equipment

• Boating & water activity supplies

• Pool supplies

• Children’s toys

• General outdoor supplies

• Admission to live music events, fairs, plays, use of or access to private & membership clubs providing physical fitness facilities, etc. (To be held on any date(s) from May 29, 2023, through December 31, 2023.)

For a full list of qualifying items, visit floridarevenue.com/freedomsummer.

Energy Star Appliances

Consumers can purchase qualifying ENERGY STAR® appliances exempt from tax during the 2023-2024 ENERGY STAR Appliances Sales Tax Holiday, July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024.

• Washing machines, clothes dryers, or water heaters selling for $1,500 or less

• Refrigerators or combination refrigerators/ freezers selling for $4,500 or less

Gas Ranges and Cooktops

Consumers can purchase qualifying gas ranges and cooktops exempt from tax during the 2023-2024 Gas Ranges and Cooktops Sales Tax Holiday, July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024.

• Applies to any gas range or cooktop fueled by combustible gas

• Does not include outdoor gas grills, camping stoves, or other portable stoves

Home Hardening

Consumers can purchase qualifying home hardening products exempt from tax during the Home Hardening Sales Tax Exemption, July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2024.

• Impact-resistant doors

• Impact-resistant windows

• Impact-resistant garage doors

Diapers and Clothing

Consumers can purchase qualifying children's diapers and clothing primarily intended for children ages 5 and younger exempt from tax during the 2022-2023 Children's Diapers and Clothing Sales Tax Exemptions, July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023.

• Single-use diapers

• Reusable diapers

• Reusable diaper inserts

• Does not include watches, watchbands, jewelry, umbrellas, and handkerchiefs

Back to School

Consumers can purchase qualifying back-toschool supplies exempt from tax during the 2023-2024 Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, July 24, 2023 – August 6, 2023, and January 1, 2024 – January 14, 2024.

• Learning aids and jigsaw puzzles selling for $30 or less

• Most school supplies selling for $50 or less

• Clothing, footwear, and accessories selling for $100 or less

• Computers and related accessories selling

for $1,500 or less (when purchased for noncommercial and personal use)

For a full list of qualifying items, visit floridarevenue.com/backtoschool.

Tool Time

Consumers can purchase qualifying tools and equipment exempt from tax during the 2023 Tool Time Sales Tax Holiday, September 2, 2023 – September 8, 2023.

• High-visibility safety vests selling for $30 or less

• Hand tools selling for $50 or less

• Hard hats and other head protection selling for $100 or less

For a full list of qualifying items, visit floridarevenue.com/ToolTime. j

floridarevenue.com

Father's Day Events

Father's Day Grilling Dinner

June 2, 6:30pm

Treat Dad to a special night out at Aprons Cooking School. Let the chefs demonstrate some new grilling techniques and dishes that will upgrade everything you know about grilling. This is a demonstration-style cooking class. The menu includes Grilled Radicchio Caesar, Grilled Pork Burger Al Pastor, Grilled Vietnamese-Style Chicken Wings with Fish Sauce Caramel, and Grilled Pound Cake "Bananas Foster." This class is for adults 18 years of age and older only. Registration is $60 per person. Publix Aprons Cooking School / 904-262-4187 / 10500 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.publix.com

June KidX Event: Super Dad

June 10, 11am to 1pm

The Orange Park Mall hosts a very special KidX event that will feature superheroes and a superhero craft to show Dad how super special he is. Event will be located inside the mall near Belk Court. Orange Park Mall / 904-269-2422 / 1910 Wells Road, Orange Park, FL 32073 / orangeparkmall.com

Daddy Daughter Dance

June 10, 6pm to 8:30pm

Celebrate Father's Day with a Daddy Daughter Dance at The Link. Enjoy some sweets and treats, take pictures and selfies at the selfie station, and dance the night away. The dance is open to Link Members and Non-Members alike. Cost is $60 for Dad plus one daughter and $15 each for additional daughters. The Link / 904-2993671 / 425 Town Plaza Avenue, Ponte Vedra, FL 32081 / www.thelink.zone

Jekyll Island Donuts with Dad

June 17, 9am to 11am

The Jekyll Island Club Resort invites families for a special event celebrating fathers. The whole family is encouraged to come. Enjoy donuts and beverages, play games, and bond

with your family. Cost is $30 per adult, $15 per child (4-12 years), and complimentary for children under the age of 3. The event will be held on the Riverfront Lawn.

Jekyll Island Club Resort Riverfront Lawn / 912-319-4349 / 371 Riverview Drive, Jekyll Island, GA 31527 / www.jekyllclub.com

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp Celebrate

Father’s Day • June 18, 3:05pm

The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp take on the Memphis Redbirds. Single game tickets start at $7, with multi-game and group packages available. Section 108 F-Q is a designated Family Section, with no alcohol allowed. Celebrate Father’s Day and enjoy some pregame catch on the field, run the bases with him after the game, and sign up to buy a special Father's Day picnic. For $33.43, you can enjoy 90-minute all-you-can-eat hot dogs, burgers, chips, cookies, soda, and water. The picnic will run from 2pm to 3:30pm. This also includes your ticket to the game.

121 Financial Ballpark / 904-358-2846 / 301 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jaxshrimp.com

Father’s Day Brunch

June 18, 10am to 12:30pm

Families are invited to celebrate Father's Day at Jax Cooking Studio. The menu features Cheesy Bacon and Corn Fritters served with guest-made chipotle aioli; Chorizo Frittata – a hearty frittata made with spicy chorizo sausage, spinach, and peppers; Sweet Potato Hash with Onions and Fresh Herbs; and French Toast with Maple Syrup and Fresh Berries – thick slices of bread dipped in a vanilla and cinnamon egg batter served with warm maple syrup and fresh berries. Registration starts at $70.

Jax Cooking Studio / 904-379-6220 / 14035 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / jaxcookingstudio.com

Women's Wednesday

June 7, 5:30pm to 7:30pm

Join other women in the community for an evening of cocktails, connections, and inspiration exploring what it means to live creatively. Well-known across North Florida as the ultimate women’s gathering of the summer, Women’s Wednesdays is presented by two local organizations with fierce women in leadership. This year’s theme is “Living Creatively” and will highlight the stories of female artists, authors, and other creatives. The event will include a practical exploration of creativity that all audience members can participate in. Featured speakers and creatives for this event include Erin Kendrick, International Visual Artist and Art Educator, Jeannette Johnson, Author & Wall Crawl Co-Founder, Alma Ramirez, Contemporary Abstract Artist, and Shawana Brooks, Executive Director, Moving the Margins. These women will be sharing their personal stories of reinvention and passion – and talking about how anyone can embrace more creativity in their daily lives. General admission starts at $25. The Treasury on The Plaza / 24 Cathedral Place, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / sheisfiercehq.com

Earth Works Pond Tour

June 10, 9am to 5pm

Join Earth Works staff on a bus tour to see some of Jacksonville’s most beautiful ponds and water features. Earth Works’ pond specialists will give details at each stop and answer any questions you may have. This tour will also include a free self-guided option. A self-guided map will also be available for $10. Funds raised from the map donation will benefit The Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens. Bus tour cost is $60 per person. Lunch, beer, and wine is included. This is an adult event. Earth Works Garden Center / 904-996-0712 / 12501 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.earthworksjax.com

Line Dancing • June 12, 6pm to 7:30pm

Adults are invited for some line dancing. Participants will focus on current line dances and group dancing like Cupid Shuffle. The event is hosted by BC Entertainment, a group that focuses on positive interactions to encourage fun and help Clay County residents get more active. Open to adults 19 and up. Clay County Public Library, Orange Park Branch / 904-278-4750 / 2054 Plainfield Ave, Orange Park, FL 32073 / www.claycountygov.com

Snacks For the Celebration

June 22, 2pm

Adults are invited to learn to make some red, white, and blue mocktails and taste some Independence Day-themed desserts. Free to attend. St. Johns County Public Library, Southeast Branch / 904-827-6900 / 6670 US 1 South, St. Augustine, FL 32086 / sjcpls.org

Dress a Girl Around the World

June 24, 10am to 1pm

Join the women of Dress a Girl to learn to make dresses and now shorts. You can pick up a kit to create at home or turn in dresses you created to the Bartram Trail Branch. They also accept fabric and notion donations. Free. St. Johns County Public Library Bartram Trail Branch / 904-827-6960 / 60 Davis Pond Blvd, St. Johns, FL 32259 / sjcpls.org

Pressed Flowers Candles

July 6, 10:30am

Adults are invited to join Anastasia Island Crafters. Participants will be using dried flowers to make unique wax candles. Free, but please register so they can have enough supplies on hand. St. Johns County Public Library Anastasia Island Branch / 904209-3730 / 124 Seagrove Main Street, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / sjcpls.org

Morton's Jacksonville – Sips of Summer: An Extravagant Celebration • July 21, 6pm

Adults are invited for an evening of mixology to commemorate the conclusion of prohibition. The evening will feature four impeccably crafted cocktails, each expertly paired with unique dishes, all while immersed in an ambiance inspired by the prohibition era. The featured cocktails are Golden Age Spritz – Stoli Elit, Golden Delicious Apples, Honey and Mint; Bonnie & Clyde – Stoli Ohranj, Watermelon, Pineapple & Lime; The Cat’s Pajamas – Cenote Blanco, Cointreau, Guava & Lime; and The Wiseguy – Wiseman Bourbon, Stone Fruit, Vermouth & Bitters. The menu to be paired with the cocktails includes House Smoked Salmon on Crostini with Cucumber, Radish, Filet Mignon Finger Sandwiches with Horseradish Cream, Oysters Rockefeller New Orleans Style and Grana Padano, Sweet & Sour Meatballs, Bacon Deviled Eggs, and Caviar Potatoes. Cost is $99 per person plus tax. This is only for ages 21 and up.

10 Ways to Succeed with Zero Talent

Taking the Mystery Out of Gluten-Free

Gluten is a protein found in certain grains, namely, wheat, barley, and rye grains. One of the most common grains found in the typical American diet is wheat. Everyday foods such as bagels, cereal, bread, crackers, donuts, pasta, pizza, and many more contain gluten.

Wheat allergy is most commonly diagnosed in childhood and is usually outgrown before adulthood. An allergy to wheat is not the same as celiac disease. Children and adults with celiac disease, which is an autoimmune, inflammatory disease affecting the gastrointestinal tract, need to avoid gluten-containing products because consuming them will cause distress and damage to the small intestine and inhibit absorption of nutrients over time.

Gluten-free replacements for cereals and baking mixes are often made up of a combination of cornstarch, potato starch, tapioca starch, and/or white rice flour. See the baking substitution recipe towards the end of this article for baking with wheat-free flours.

Symptoms of celiac disease may include one or more of the following: *

• Recurring abdominal bloating and pain

• Chronic diarrhea/constipation

• Vomiting

• Unexplained weight loss

• Pale, foul-smelling stool

• Iron-deficiency anemia that does not respond to iron supplementation

• Fatigue

• Growth failure

• Joint and muscle pain

• Leg or arm numbness

*The items listed are not meant to diagnose but instead to make one aware of some of the common symptoms. If you have concerns about any of the above, see your physician.

Nutrition Therapy for Gluten Intolerance

It is challenging enough to prepare gluten-free meals at home, let alone send a child to school or daycare where trigger foods abound. There are many food items that may contain gluten but are “hidden” in unexpected ways. Less obvious foods such as broth, salad dressings, some varieties of hot dogs, sauces and gravies, coating mixes (such as on chicken nuggets or corn dogs), and certain candies can all contain gluten.

Tips on How to Read a Label for a WheatFree Diet

All FDA-regulated manufactured food products that contain wheat as an ingredient are re-

quired by U.S. law to list the word “wheat” on the product label.

Wheat can be “hidden” in the following ingredients:

Breadcrumbs, bulgur, cereal extract, club wheat, couscous, cracker meal, durum, einkorn, emmer, farina, flour, hydrolyzed wheat protein, Kamut, matzoh or matzoh meal, pasta, seitan, semolina, spelt, sprouted wheat, triticale, vital wheat gluten, wheat, wheat bran hydrolysate, wheat germ oil, wheat grass, wheat protein isolate, and whole wheat berries.

Gluten can also be sometimes found in the following additives/foods, so it is best to check with the product manufacturer if it is unclear by the label: Soy sauce, starch, including gelatinized starch, modified starch, modified food starch, or vegetable starch.

Here is a quick list of some common foods that may contain gluten. Check the labels or ask the restaurant before ordering.

• Energy bars/granola bars – check for wheat or oat ingredients (the oats might not be gluten-free)

• French fries – the batter may contain wheat flour or be cross-contaminated from fryers

• Potato chips – some potato chip seasonings may contain malt vinegar or wheat starch

• Processed lunch meats

• Candy and candy bars

• Soup – cream-based soups may contain flour as a thickener

• Multi-grain tortilla chips or tortillas – if they are not entirely corn-based, they may contain wheat

• Salad dressings and marinades – check for malt vinegar, soy sauce, or flour on the ingredient list

• Starch or dextrin – could be from any grain, including wheat

• Brown rice syrup – may be made with barley enzymes

• Meat alternatives – such as vegetarian burgers, vegetarian sausage, imitation bacon, and imitation seafood may all contain wheat gluten

• Soy sauce

• Pre-seasoned meats

• Cheesecake filling – some recipes may contain wheat flour

• Eggs served at restaurants – some restaurants put pancake batter in their scrambled eggs and omelets, but on their

own, eggs are naturally gluten-free

So, what can I send my child for lunch at school/daycare?

Remember, ask your children to help in preparing meals. Incorporate their preferences when making lunches to encourage compliance with the diet. Many parents choose to send food from home, rather than trust the school to provide a gluten-free diet.

There are gluten-free foods that can always be kept on hand

Remember that this is just a general list. Some foods may themselves be gluten-free but may risk cross-contamination if not processed in a dedicated facility. Bottom-line: check with the product manufacturer if unclear by reading the label.

• All fruits

• All vegetables

• Beans, fresh (not all baked beans are safe)

• Beef, not mixed with anything else, unless you know it’s safe (for example, meatloaf may have breadcrumbs in it)

• Cheese: American, cheddar, swiss, and cottage cheese

• Chicken, fresh, unbreaded

• Chocolate

• Cocoa (make your own hot chocolate, mixes often contain gluten)

• Cold cereals: puffed rice, Rice Chex, Fruity Pebbles, Cocoa Pebbles, Cream of Rice, Gluten-Free Rice Krispies go to www. kelloggs.com for more information

• Eggs

• Fish, fresh, unbreaded

• Hummus

• Ice cream marked as natural (check label,

• Marshmallows

• Milk

• Nuts

• Peanut butter

• Popcorn

• Pork, unbreaded

• Potatoes (but not necessarily potato chips)

• Quinoa

• Rice

• Rice cakes and crackers

• Sesame seeds

• Sour cream

• Tapioca pudding

• Turkey, not mixed with anything else unless you know it is safe

• Tortillas, made from corn

• Yogurt

Baking

When baking with wheat-free flours, a combination of flours usually works best. Experiment with different blends to find one that will give you the texture you are trying to achieve.

Try substituting 1-cup wheat flour with one of the following:

• 7/8 cup rice flour

• 5/8 cup potato starch flour

• 1 cup soy flour plus 1/4 cup potato starch flour

• 1 cup corn flour

Here are additional resources to help you navigate through meal planning and enhance your understanding of gluten-free/wheat allergy. As always, if you have questions, ask your pediatrician and registered dietitian for help.

• Celiac Disease Foundation: www.celiac.org

• Gluten Intolerance Group: www.gluten.org

• Beyond Celiac: www.beyondceliac.org

• FARE: www.foodallergy.org j

Skin Patch to Treat Toddlers with Peanut Allergies Shows Promise Free Summer Lunch Programs for Kids

Peanut allergy is one of the most common and dangerous food allergies. Parents of allergic tots are constantly on guard against exposures that can turn birthday parties and play dates into emergency room visits.

Right now, there is no cure. The only treatment is for children 4 and older who can consume a special peanut powder to protect against a severe reaction.

However, scientists are getting one step closer to having a solution for peanut allergy with the development of a peanut skin patch that helps children safely tolerate exposure to a small amount of the nuts.

The patch, named Viaskin, aims to deliver treatment through the skin. In a major test with youngsters ages 1 to 3, it helped those who couldn’t tolerate even a small fraction of a peanut to eventually safely eat a few, researchers reported in the New England Journal of Medicine.

If additional testing pans out, “this would fill a huge unmet need,” said Dr. Matthew Greenhawt, an allergist at Children’s Hospital Colorado who helped lead the study.

About 2% of U.S. children are allergic to peanuts, some so severely that even a tiny amount can cause a life-threatening reaction. Their immune system overreacts to peanut-containing foods, triggering an inflammatory cascade that causes hives, wheezing, or worse. Research shows that only about 20% of children with peanut allergy will eventually outgrow it, but most must avoid peanuts for life and carry rescue medicine to stave off a severe reaction if they accidentally ingest some.

In 2020, the Food and Drug Administration approved the first treatment to induce tolerance to peanuts – an “oral immunotherapy” named Palforzia that children age 4 to 17 consume daily to keep up the protection. Aimmune Therapeutics' Palforzia also is being tested in toddlers.

France’s DBV Technologies is pursuing skin-based immunotherapy as an alternative way to desensitize the body to allergens.

The Viaskin patch is coated with a small amount of peanut protein that is absorbed into the skin. A daily patch is worn between the

shoulder blades, where toddlers can’t pull it off.

In the new study, 362 toddlers with peanut allergy first were tested to see how high a dose of peanut protein they could tolerate. Then, they were randomly assigned to use the Viaskin patch or a lookalike dummy patch every day.

After a year of treatment, they were tested again, and about two-thirds of the toddlers who used the real patch could safely ingest more peanuts, the equivalent of three to four, researchers concluded.

That compares to about a third of youngsters given the dummy patches. Greenhawt said they likely include children who are outgrowing the allergy.

As for safety, four Viaskin recipients experienced an allergic reaction called anaphylaxis that was deemed related to the patch. Three were treated with epinephrine to calm the reaction, and one dropped out of the study.

Some youngsters also accidentally ate peanut-containing foods during the study, and researchers said allergic reactions were less frequent among the Viaskin users than those wearing the dummy patches. The most common side effect was skin irritation at the patch site.

The results “are very good news for toddlers and their families as the next step toward a future with more treatments for food allergies,” Dr. Alkis Togias of the National Institutes of Health, which wasn’t involved with the study, wrote in an accompanying editorial.

Togias cautioned that it’s too early to compare oral and skin treatments, but pointed to data suggesting each might have different pros and cons — raising the possibility that oral therapy might be stronger but also cause more side effects.

DBV Technologies has struggled for several years to bring the peanut patch to market. Last month the company announced the FDA wants some additional safety data for toddlers, and a separate study already is tracking longer treatment. A study of 4- to 7-year-olds also is underway. j

abcnews.go.com yahoo.com

Free Summer Lunch at The Library

June 5 – August 4

To help ensure that kids don't go hungry while school is out of session, free and nutritious meals will be available for children and teens (18 and younger) at several Jacksonville Public Library locations starting June 5, 2023. No signup or application is necessary. Any child 18 or younger can simply show up at the library during mealtimes (Monday – Friday) to receive a free and healthy meal. Each meal includes protein, fruit or veggie, and a drink. Meals will not be provided on Monday, June 19, and Tuesday, July 4.

Monday – Friday, 11am to 12noon: Charles Webb Wesconnett Regional Library, 6887 103rd St Highlands Regional Library, 1826 Dunn Ave Pablo Creek Regional Library, 13295 Beach Blvd

Monday – Friday, 12noon to 1pm: Dallas Graham Branch Library, 2304 Myrtle Ave N University Park Branch Library, 3435 University Blvd N

Monday – Friday, 12:45pm to 1:45pm: Bill Brinton Murray Hill Branch Library, 918 Edgewood Ave S

Bradham and Brooks Branch Library, 1755 Edgewood Ave W

Regency Square Branch Library, 9900 Regency Square Blvd

Jacksonville Public Library / 904-255-2665 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

Clay County Summer Free Lunch Program for Kids • June 6 – July 22

Clay County Libraries is partnering with the Clay County District Schools and the FDA to provide meals for students this summer. On designated days between June 6 and July 22, all children between the ages of 0 and 18 can receive a free lunch. Every Tuesday and Thursday, lunches will be available at the Orange Park Library. On Mondays and Wednesdays, free lunches will be available at the Middleburg-Clay Hill Library. Lunch must be eaten on-site.

Clay County Public Libraries / 904-278-3614 ext 2248 / www.claycountygov.com

Orange Park Library / 2054 Plainfield Ave, Orange Park, FL 32073

Middleburg-Clay Hill Library / 2245 Aster Ave, Middleburg, FL 32068

Things to

Do Health & Safety Events

Youth Martial Arts

June 6, 13, 20, 3pm, July 13, 20, 27, 1:30pm

Has your child wanted to try out martial arts?

Kids are invited to sign up for this free threeweek series designed for ages 5-15, offered in partnership with All American Martial Arts. Please register for each of the three dates in the series. The class will be offered in two sessions. The July series is a repeat of the June series, so please only RSVP for one or the other. Registration is required.

Tuesdays, June 6, 13, & 20 at 3pm – 1st session

Thursdays, July 13, 20, & 27 at 1:30pm – 2nd session

St. Johns County Public Library, Southeast Branch / 904-827-6900 / 6670 US 1 South, St. Augustine, FL 32086 / sjcpls.org

Community Health Day

June 10, 10am to 2pm White Harvest Farms, a program of the Clara White Mission, is hosting a Community Health Day for families living in NW Jacksonville. They will be raising awareness about preventable diseases that could be remedied by a healthy diet. Several vendors will be partnering to provide health screenings for diabetes and heart disease and sharing

resources about health care and health insurance options. University of North Florida College of Nutrition will have a food demo using produce grown at White Harvest Farms. Free to attend.

White Harvest Farms / 904-354-4162 / 4850 Moncrief Road, Jacksonville, FL 32209 / www.clarawhitemission.org

Basic CPR Class • June 12, 6pm

Pediatric Associates hosts this free virtual CPR class. Learn the basic skills you’ll need to respond to an infant/child in an emergency. The class will cover how to respond to breathing and cardiac emergencies for victims, etc. Held online as a free virtual event; no certification is provided.

Pediatric Associates / 954-966-8000 / pediatricassociates.com

Sun and Heat Safety

July 12, 12noon to 1pm

Join Florida Blue for a presentation to learn how to be safe in the hot Florida sun. This area is a sunny climate where adults and kids can be outside enjoying nature most days of the year. Before heading out to take advantage of the sunshine and the heat, it's important to take certain precautions to protect yourself.

Florida Blue Jacksonville / 904-363-5870 / 4855 Town Center Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.floridablue.com

Visit

What Every Parent Needs to Know About FAKE PILLS

W hat is fentanyl?

It is a deadly synthetic opioid that is being pressed into fake pills or cut into heroin, cocaine, and other street drugs to drive addiction.

What are fake pills?

• The Sinaloa Cartel and Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion are making fentanyl and pressing it into fake pills. Fake pills are

have a smart phone and a social media account, then a drug trafficker can find you. This also means they are finding your kids who have social media accounts.

• To learn more about emoji codes used on social media, visit Emoji Drug Code Decoded www.dea.gov/onepill

Why is fentanyl so dangerous?

DEA lab testing reveals that six out of every ten fake pills with fentanyl contain a potentially lethal dose.

What are the physical and mental effects of fentanyl?

Fentanyl use can cause confusion, drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, changes in pupil size, cold and clammy skin, coma, and respiratory failure leading to death.

How would my child get fentanyl?

• Drug traffickers are using social media to advertise drugs and conduct sales. If you

Why you should be concerned.

• The drug landscape is dramatically different from when you grew up, or even from a few years ago.

• All parents and caregivers need to be educated on current drug threats to be able to have informed talks with their kids.

Tips for parents and caregivers.

• Encourage open and honest communication

• Explain what fentanyl is and why it is so dangerous

• Stress not to take any pills that were not prescribed to you from a doctor

• No pill purchased on social media is safe

• Make sure they know fentanyl has been found in most illegal drugs

• Create an “exit plan” to help your child know what to do if they are pressured to take a pill or use drugs

• For more tips on how to talk to your child about drugs, read Chapter 4 of Growing Up Drug Free: A Parent’s Guide to Substance Use Prevention at www. getsmartaboutdrugs.com/publications j

This reference guide is intended to give parents, caregivers, educators, and other inßuencers a better sense of how emojis are being used in conjunction with illegal drugs. Fake prescription pills, commonly laced with deadly fentanyl and methamphetamine, are often sold on social media and e-commerce platforms – making them available to anyone with a smartphone.

SAMHSA’s National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357) (also known as the Treatment Referral Routing Service), or TTY: 1-800-487-4889 is a confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, information service, in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and communty-based organizations.

Summer Volunteer Opportunities for Teens

Summer is a great chance for high schoolers to get ahead on their community service hours for graduation or future college scholarship requirements. The City of Jacksonville and many other organizations offer various rewarding summer volunteer opportunities for teens. Don’t look at volunteering as a chore but rather as a chance to help give back to our community! Check out some of the available volunteer options below.

Animal Care and Protective Services

• Volunteer Kennel Assistant: Assist in the handling and care of adoption animals. Duties may include handling of adoption animals, exercising, bathing and grooming animals, providing food and water, and maintaining kennel facilities. Will also assist in placement of adoption animals. Work may be performed at a retail pet store or at various kennel sites.

• Pet-Friendly Emergency Shelter

Volunteer: The City of Jacksonville launched the Pet-Friendly Public Evacuation Shelter Program to meet the needs of the community during hurricane season, and these shelters need volunteers to function. Pet-friendly shelters are located at Chimney Lakes Elementary School, Landmark Middle School, Legends Community Center, Mandarin Middle School, and Atlantic Coast High School.

Parks, Recreation and Community Services

• Bird Stewards: Volunteer positions needed to assist with the conservation of shorebirds and seabirds at Huguenot Memorial Park. Stewards help carry out two important tasks: 1) minimizing disturbance to nests and 2) informing visitors about the need to protect beach-nesting birds and the site they depend upon. Work periods will begin in April and usually continues until mid-September. Ideally, volunteers will be scheduled for between five and 20 hours a week, including weekends.

Jacksonville Public Library

The Library welcomes teens aged 12-18 years who desire to make a difference in their community. All teen applicants must complete an interview, submit the required paperwork, and pass the background screening before signing up for an opportunity or volunteering. The paperwork includes a notarized juvenile records search authorization, two letters of recommendation, and a parental permission form. All forms will be provided to the applicant after the application has been reviewed.

Youth ages 12-15 years may only volunteer as a member of the Teen Advisory Board (TAB)

and/or during the Summer. TAB is offered only in person at select branches. Youths between 16-18 years may participate in TAB and/or in different capacities.

To apply to the above opportunities or for more information, visit www.coj.net/volunteer or contact volunteer@coj.net for more information.

American Red Cross

Red Cross youth volunteers learn valuable lessons in how to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds, mobilize communities, and create positive change. They hone their leadership skills, make new friends, and explore new interests, all in an age-appropriate environment with visible results. Visit volunteerconnection.redcross.org to find the volunteer opportunity that’s best for you and to apply.

HabiJax

– Habitat for Humanity Jacksonville

Whether you want to join in home construction or ReStore operations, Habitat for Humanity Jacksonville has many opportunities for you to explore. No experience is needed – they will teach you what you need to know to help families here on the First Coast.

All volunteers need to be age 16 or older. Minors (16-18) need an online Liability Waiver signed by a parent or guardian at the time of registration. Go to habijax.org to learn more.

Jewish Family & Community Services

The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services (JFCS) has been a vital part of the Jacksonville Community since 1917, lending a helping hand to people from all walks of life. With unique opportunities for youth volunteerism, JFCS can be a great place to give back to the community.

If you would like more information on a specific volunteer opportunity, fill out the form at jfcsjax.org or email info@jfcsjax.org.

Community Hospice & Palliative Care

Volunteers are vital members of the Community Hospice & Palliative Care team. Whether you offer companionship and a listening ear to patients and family members, help with clerical work at one of their locations, or assist at fundraising events, there’s a volunteer opportunity for everyone. Visit communityhospice.com for volunteer options. j

coj.net

redcross.org habijax.org

jfcsjax.org

communityhospice.com

Things to Do Teen Events

Drop-In Game Day for Teens

June 6, 13, 20, 27, July 11, 18, 25 5pm to 6pm

Teens, drop-in to the South Mandarin Branch Library to play board games and card games featuring new and old favorites. Snacks will be provided. Free and open to teens 12 to 18. Jacksonville Public Library, South Mandarin Branch / 904-255-2665 / 12125 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

Empowering High-Achieving Students for College and Career Success

June 7, 7pm

Are you a parent of a high-achieving student who wants to provide the best opportunities for your child’s future success? This hourlong interactive webinar is designed to equip you with practical approaches to maximize your student’s opportunities for advancement in their college and career interests. A wide range of topics, including course selection, study and executive function skills assessment, extracurricular experiences best for high-achieving students, and development of soft skills for career preparation, will be covered. This webinar is an excellent opportunity for parents to gain insights and tips on how to support their child’s success and prepare them for a rewarding future. Free. Revolution Prep / 877-738-7737 / www.revolutionprep.com

Teen Cooking: Cooking with a Waffle Iron

June 7, 14, 2:30pm to 3:30pm Teens 12-18, join Joan for the challenge of making food other than waffles on a waffle iron. The class will be held in two parts over two weeks. In part one, teens will learn how to make savory meals using the waffle iron. Part two will teach participants how to make unique desserts using the waffle iron. RSVP is highly recommended, as limited space is available. This program begins promptly at 2:30pm. Teens who RSVP should arrive early at 2:20pm. At 2:30pm, walk-ins will be accepted. Free to attend. St. Johns County Public Library, Ponte Vedra Beach Branch / 904-827-6950 / 101 Library Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / sjcpls.org

Big and Teen Chef: Imagine the Pastabilities • June 12, 6pm

Big Chef-Teen Chef series classes are designed specifically for a guardian/parent, older sibling (18 or older), etc., paired with a young chef. Each pair will work together (along with the rest of the students) to create delicious recipes that are appropriate for adults and teens alike. Big Chef must be 18 or older. Teen Chef age range is 13 to 17 years old. Learn how pasta can be much more than just added to plain sauce. The

menu features Rigatoni Quattro Fromaggi, Spaghetti and Ricotta Meatballs, Chicken Long Rice (Hawaiian-Style Rice Noodle Dish), and Toasted Pound Cake with Macerated Strawberries and Whipped Cream. Cost is $85. Price is for a parent/teen combo, add one seat to cart.

Publix Aprons Cooking School / 904-262-4187 / 10500 San Jose Blvd Ste 36, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.publix.com

Safe Sitter® Class

June 16, July 21, 9:30am to 4:30pm

Safe Sitter® prepares students in grades 6-8 to be safe when they’re home alone, watching younger siblings, or babysitting. Students learn life-saving skills, such as how to rescue someone who’s choking, and helpful information, like what to do if there’s severe weather. Students will get to use CPR manikins to practice CPR or choking rescue. Upon completion of the course, each student will receive a certificate indicating they completed all course requirements as a Safe Sitter. Cost is $55 per teen, paid at the class.

June 16 – Baptist North Medical Campus

July 21 – Winston Family YMCA Baptist Health / 904-202-2229 / www.baptistjax.com

Baptist North Medical Campus Y Healthy Living Center / 11236 Baptist Health Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32218 Winston Family YMCA / 221 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32202

Princess and Queens Event

July 15, 8am to 5pm

The Well Christian Women's Network and Wonder Women of Faith are hosting the Princess and Queens event for young ladies ages 9 to 18 years old. This will be a symposium that will encourage young ladies to be the best they can be. They will receive spirit-filled information on a productive and full life. Through this all-day event, participants will realize their beauty and worth. Breakfast and lunch will be provided, and each participant will receive a gift bag. Free to attend, but please register so they know how many to expect.

Shepherd of the Woods Lutheran Church and School / 904-878-7840 / 7860 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / www.thewellchristianwomensnetwork.com

Gamer Play-Off

July 22, 2pm to 4pm

Teens 12 to 18 are invited to join library staff and compete in a video game tournament to win the monthly title, Gamer Champ. Free to participate.

Jacksonville Public Library, Bill Brinton Murray Hill Branch / 904-255-2665 / 918 Edgewood Avenue South, Jacksonville, FL 32208 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

INFANT & TODDLER Things to Do Infant & Toddler Events

Nature Nuggets

Nature Nuggets are short, minute-long videos drawn from PBS’s NATURE, one of the most-watched documentary film series on public television. Nature Nuggets began as a new pilot campaign by WNET’s Education Department to test text-based technology as an effective community engagement technique. For this purpose, the minute-long

videos from the NATURE series were repackaged for early learners (ages 2 to 6) and promoted as a tool for active science and language learning opportunities to parents, educators, and caregivers across the nation. Nature Nuggets videos are available by visiting florida.pbslearningmedia.org/collection/ nature-nuggets or on the Nature on PBS YouTube page. j

florida.pbslearningmedia.org

Pop-Up Storytime • June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, July 6, 13, 20, 27, 10am to 10:30am

The South Mandarin Branch Library hosts a pop-up storytime. Kids are invited for singing, dancing, playing, reading, and more. Registration is required for this event and must be completed two hours prior to the start time. Jacksonville Public Library, South Mandarin Branch / 904-255-2665 / 12125 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

Mandarin Lutheran Church Baby Pantry

June 4, 18, July 2, 16, 10am to 12noon

The goal of the MLC Baby Pantry is to supply local families in need with baby care items, including diapers, wipes, bath needs, rash cream, ointments, and gently used clothing at no cost to parents in the Jacksonville area. The baby pantry is open on the first and third Sunday of each month from 10am to 12noon. Availability of items is on a first-come, first-served basis. Bring proof of residency (driver’s license, rental agreement, or mortgage statement), as well as proof that the child you are receiving supplies for is your child (birth certificate) or in your care. Need is on the honor system. They are not asking for proof of income but do ask only that you help them be able to help as many people as possible. Mandarin Lutheran Church / 904268-4591 / 11900 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / mandarinlutheran.org

Middleburg/Clay Hill Baby Storytime

June 6, 20, July 18, 10:15am to 11:15am

Toddlers and babies age 23 months and under are invited to sing, bounce, and play. Join library staff for a special lapsit program for you and your little one. Each week will feature a different topic, including manners, sharing, and meeting new people. Free. Clay County Public Library, Middleburg/Clay Hill Branch / 904541-5855 / 2245 Aster Avenue, Middleburg, FL 32068 / www.claycountygov.com

Resource Fair with Food and Diaper Distribution • June 7, 21, July 5, 19, 2pm to 4pm Angel Kids Foundation, a non-profit organization

dedicated to addressing health disparities and supporting children and families, hosts a Resource Fair with Food and Diaper Distribution. The Resource Fair is a community-focused event that aims to provide resources and support to families in the local communities. The event will include food distribution, and through a partnership with Safe Futures Foundation, will also provide diaper and hygiene supplies. The event is free and open to the public and is designed to provide families with access to essential resources, regardless of their income or background. In addition to the food and diaper distribution, the Resource Fair will feature a variety of community partners and resources, including educational materials and employment opportunities. Angel Kids Pediatrics / 904-224-5437 / 2040 Riverview St, Jacksonville, FL 32208 / www.myangelkids.com

Summer Baby Storytime

June 7, 14, 21, 28, July 12, 19, 26 10:15am to 10:45am

Celebrate summer and join library staff for a perfect first storytime for babies. This gentle lapsit program features action rhymes, songs, and stories presented in a circle time format in the Children’s Library. For babies up to 12 months; siblings welcome. Free. St. Johns County Public Library, Ponte Vedra Beach Branch / 904-827-6950 / 101 Library Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / sjcpls.org

Birthing 101

June 27, 6:30pm to 7:30pm

This free one-hour session will introduce expectant parents to basic childbirth education. This class will cover the purpose of childbirth education, pregnancy warning signs, discomforts of pregnancy, how your body prepares for birth, signs of labor, stages of labor, how partners can support moms, medication in labor and birth, and cesarean birth. Free. Pediatric Associates / 954-966-8000 / pediatricassociates.com

Things to Do Special Needs Events SPECIAL NEEDS

Autism Creates Family Workshop

June 10, July 8, August 12, 10am to 11am

Mohamed Fofana, a 4-year-old boy with autism described as nonspeaking, was found dead on the shoreline of Spectacle Island this past May after being reported missing at Castle Island. His death echoes similar cases of children with autism spectrum disorder who have either drowned or died near bodies of water after wandering off.

Children on the autism spectrum may leave a safe setting where they are supervised if they are overstimulated, said Lori McIlwain, the co-founder of the National Autism Association. In cases like these, some children with autism may wander off to a “low-sensory area,” such as a body of water, to ease their nerves.

In theory, water can provide a therapeutic value for children with ASD, which has a calming effect on them, McIlwain said. But it can also be dangerous.

“These kids do have a diminished sense of fear,” said Dr. John E. Bischoff III, the vice president of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s Missing Children Division.

Nearly 85% of accidental deaths among children with ASD were attributed to drowning incidents, according to a decade-long analysis from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

In the early 2000s, the organization noticed an increase in reports of missing children with autism, Bischoff said. In collaboration with autism advocacy groups, the organization developed protocols to assist in finding these children. One protocol involved alerting callers to search near bodies of water when reporting a missing child who has autism.

Research shows that young children with autism are especially prone to wandering off. One study that surveyed 1,218 children on the spectrum found that nearly half of them had wandered off at least once in their lifetimes, with 26% of respondents reporting being missing long enough to cause serious concern.

“It’s incredibly sad for a lot of our kids, they’re doing their best all the time,” McIlwain said. “The sensory volume of their world is just always on high and they’re coping with it the best that they can. And when you have that one more thing that’s added on top of

everything else that they’re dealing with, that fight-or-flight reaction happens quite often.”

Typically, the main triggers for children with ASD to wander off are noise, stressful situations or commotion, McIlwain said. Especially during the summer months, when there are more outings, it’s easier for children with ASD to become overstimulated and “slip away” to head toward water.

It is a common assumption that when a child with ASD drowns, they have accidentally fallen into water. However, in McIlwain’s experience, most of the time the child had entered the water willingly.

According to McIlwain, adults with autism who wandered toward water bodies in their youth claimed they were aware of their actions, but almost couldn’t stop themselves.

“So there’s an impulsivity here,” she said. “For certain individuals and other individuals, they absolutely do not have that safety awareness. So really, it does depend on the individual, but most of the time they’re going to a quiet area because they are overstimulated.”

Parents of children on the autism spectrum have a genuine fear of their child wandering away. Bischoff said he’s met with parents who go to extreme lengths to protect their children. Some sleep on their child’s bedroom floor to prevent nighttime escapes, while others install security cameras inside their homes to ensure their child doesn’t slip away unnoticed.

“It’s a difficult road some of these parents really walked down each and every day,” said Bischoff. “They’re doing their absolute best to prepare to protect these children who have autism.”

Bischoff suggests that parents enroll their children in swimming lessons at their local YMCA to keep them safe from drowning.

“People just need to really educate themselves on the topic and if they have a child who has autism, to understand the possibilities that could happen and the unfortunate outcomes that could happen.” j

disabilityscoop.com

While children with ASD struggle with verbal communication, social relations, and sensory development, creative art-making activities enable them to foster new means of self-expression and communication. Utilizing two educational components — hands-on art workshops and the museum galleries — the Autism Creates program harnesses art and art-making activities as means of promoting expression and social interaction among children with ASD and their teachers, caregivers, and peers. Monthly workshops are hosted on-site at MOCA Jacksonville for up to 10 children with ASD and their families. Families will explore the galleries, create art, and participate in sensory activities. Held the second Saturday of each month from 10am to 11am. There is no cost to attend, but space is limited, and registration is required. MOCA Jacksonville / 904-366-6911 / 333 North Laura Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / mocajacksonville.unf.edu

Sensory Story Time

June 14, July 18, 10am to 11am

Sensory Story Time is a monthly playgroup for children between the ages of 3 to 6 years who are registered with CARD or FDLRS-MDC. The focus of the group is to offer a safe, comfortable space for children and their parent(s) to participate in story time together. Sensory story time differs from traditional story time by offering hands-on participation, sensory input, and movement activities to help children stay engaged. Parents will learn strategies to encourage story time at home and in the community (like the local library). Sensory story time is also an opportunity for parents to network with other parents of children with developmental delays. Free to attend, but please register, as space is limited to eight children.

UF Neurodevelopmental Pediatric Center / 904633-0760 / 6271 St Augustine Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / ufhealthjax.org

CARD Retro Diner • June 14, 5pm to 7pm

Adults with autism spectrum disorder will have the opportunity to engage in facilitated social conversations with peers in person set at a dining location. This event will provide social and life skills via topics discussed, interactions, and hands-on activities and routines. Parents are welcome to join and participate by dining at a table of their own and enjoying themselves together during the time of the group. They are not required to participate but must be present and remain on location unless the adult is responsible for their own transportation. Additionally, participants will be fully responsible for ordering, requesting, paying, and socializing for themselves.

Metro Diner / 904-633-0760 / 12807 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / pediatrics.med.jax.ufl.edu

CARD Orientation Overview for Transi-

tion-Age Teens and Adults • June 14, 4pm

This evening orientation is an overview of statewide CARD services for transition-age teens and adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or a related disability. Registration for CARD services will be conducted at this orientation session. Transition-age teens with ASD who are under the age of 18 should be accompanied by a legal guardian who is over the age of 18. Adults with ASD are welcome to invite other family members who serve as means of support in their lives to register and attend the orientation session. Registrants will be asked to submit documentation of their qualifying diagnosis to complete the requirements needed to access CARD services. Please contact brett. walden@jax.ufl.edu for more information. The meeting will be held online via Zoom. Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) / 904-244-3056 / pediatrics.med.jax.ufl.edu

GIRLS – Girls in Real Life Situations

June 27, 5pm to 6pm

CARD Jacksonville is hosting an experiential learning workshop based on the Girls in Real Life Situations curriculum. These online sessions will focus on developing a healthy body image, understanding the impact of our choices, communication, emotions, friendships, relationships, self-esteem, stress, and more. The activities will be adapted for virtual environments. As girls progress through the lessons, they will have to demonstrate critical-thinking skills, self-control and self-discipline, use oral, written and listening skills to express themselves, create positive friendships with other students, and more. Attendance at all sessions is strongly encouraged. Open to girls in 6-12th grades. Meeting will be held virtually on Zoom. CARD Jacksonville / 904-633-0760 / pediatrics.med.jax.ufl.edu

Vincent's Clubhouse Support Group

June 28, July 26, 6:15pm to 7:30pm

Vincent's Clubhouse, Inc. is a 501c3 organization that is dedicated to serving children with autism and their families by hosting inclusive social events, summer camps, support groups, and advocacy work. Join them in a welcoming environment for parents and caregivers of children and young adults with autism and other special needs to meet, share experiences, and give each other support. Free. Vincent's Clubhouse / 386-585-0926 / 11 Pheasant Dr, Palm Coast, FL 32164 / www.vincentsclubhouse.org

Supporting Back-To-School Routines for Children with ASD

July 10, 12noon to 1pm

In this training, parents and caregivers will learn about effective supports, strategies, and resources to help children to follow routines and schedules to assist them in successfully transitioning from Summer Break to the classroom environment. Free, but please register online in advance.

FAU CARD / 561-235-8412 / www.fau.edu

SUMMER GUIDE

MOVIES

GTC Movies Summer Kid Show Series

June 6 – July 27, 10am

GTC Movies hosts a Summer Kid Show Series at 10am every Tuesday and Thursday in June and July. Doors open at 9:15am. There will be $2 admission, $2 drinks, and $2 popcorn.

June 6 and June 8 – DC League of Super-Pets

June 13 and June 15 – Minions: The Rise of Gru

June 20 and June 22 – Puss in Boots: The Last Wish

June 27 and June 29 – The Bad Guys

July 4 and July 6 – Hotel Transylvania: Transformania

July 11 and July 13 – Sonic the Hedgehog 2

July 18 and July 20 – Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank

July 25 and July 27 – Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile

GTC Movies / www.gtcmovies.com

Glynn Place Cinemas, 400 Mall Blvd, Brunswick, GA, 31525

Kings Bay Cinemas, 201 City Smitty Drive, St. Marys, GA, 31558

Epic Theatres Kids Summer Show Series

June 7 – August 9

Every Wednesday from May 31 to

August 2 you can enjoy $1 tickets at Epic Theatres as part of the Kids Summer Show Series.

June 7 – Paw Patrol: The Movie

June 14 – Minions: The Rise of Gru

June 21 – The Bad Guys

June 28 – Sonic the Hedgehog 2

July 5 – DC League of Super-Pets

July 12 – Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank

July 19 – Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile

July 26 – Puss in Boots: The Last Wish

August 2 – The Croods: A New Age

Epic Theatres / www.epictheatres.com

Oakleaf with Epic XL / 8368 Merchants Way, Jacksonville, FL 32222 / Movie Line: 904-4235730

St. Augustine / 112 Theatre Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32086 / Movie Line: 904-797-5757

Palm Coast / 1185 Central Avenue, Palm Coast, FL 32164 / Movie Line: 386-206-9757

The Princess Bride: An Inconceivable Evening with Cary Elwes

June 9, 7:30pm

Join Cary Elwes (Westley) for a behindthe-scenes look at life on and off the set of the classic film, The Princess Bride. After a screening of the iconic movie, Elwes will engage in a moderated discussion revealing never before shared secrets and tales of inconceivable antics. Doors open at 6:30pm, and the show starts at 7:30pm. Tickets range from $32.50 to $100. Florida Theatre / 904-355-5661 / 128 East Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www. floridatheatre.com

Movies in the Park – Palm Coast

June 9, July 14, August 11

The City of Palm Coast's Parks and Recreation Department hosts Movies in the Park on the second Friday of the month through October. Be sure to bring your blanket, lawn chairs, bug spray, and picnic baskets. Registration is not required.

June 9, 8:30pm – Space Jam

July 14, 8:35pm – Jurassic World

August 11, 8:15pm – Men in Black Central Park / 386-986-2360 / 975 Central Ave, Palm Coast, FL 32164 / palmcoast.gov

Family Movie Matinee

June 12, 26, July 24, 2:30pm to 4:30pm; July 6, 3pm to 5pm

The Ponte Vedra Beach Branch of the St. Johns County Public Library hosts a free summer movie series. The event is free for all ages, and no reservation is required.

St. Johns County Public Library, Ponte Vedra Beach Branch / 904827-6950 / 101 Library Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / sjcpls.org

Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse

June 21 – August 9, 9:30am

The Summer Movie Clubhouse is an eight-week program of recently released G and PG films for kids. The cost is $1.50 per person per movie at the door the morning of the program, Wednesdays, plus taxes and fees. Save even more with $1 off deals on kids’ snack packs or any size popcorn and drink combo during Summer Movie Clubhouse showtimes.

June 21 – Minions: The Rise of Gru

June 28 – Sonic the Hedgehog

July 5 – Mummies

July 12 – The Bad Guys

July 19 – Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank

July 26 – DC League of Super-Pets

August 2 – Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile

August 9 – Puss in Boots: The Last Wish Cinemark Theatres / www.cinemark.com

Cinemark Tinseltown / 904-998-2122 / 4535

Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32216

Cinemark Atlantic North / 904-915-2091 / 11567 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225

Cinemark Durbin Park / 904-230-4622 / 435 Durbin Pavilion Drive, St. Johns, FL 32259

Drop In Movie: Walt Before Mickey

July 22, 3pm to 5pm

The true story of a boy whose dreams built a kingdom. The legendary Walt Disney had a tumultuous childhood, yet he was determined to overcome obstacles in his path before the creation of his first iconic character: Mickey Mouse. Rated PG.

Jacksonville Public Library, West Branch / 904-255-2665 / 1425 Chaffee Road South, Jacksonville, FL 32221 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

SUMMER GUIDE

THEATRE & ARTS

Music by the Sea Concert Series

Thru June 28, 7pm to 9pm

Music by the Sea is back with more live music. This free family-friendly concert series features a different band on Wednesdays each week. The series offers a wide variety of music, including jazz, blues, classic rock, pop, reggae, disco, and country. In addition to the music, each week, one of the community's local eateries or food trucks will be featured. Guests are welcome to bring coolers and picnic baskets. Chairs and bug spray are encouraged. St. Johns County Pier Park / 350 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www.sabca.org

Concerts in the Plaza in St. Augustine

June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, July 6, 13, 20, 27, August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 6pm to 8pm

Concerts in the Plaza, St. Augustine's summer-long music series, returns for the 2023 season serving up some of the best musical entertainment in Northeast Florida. The series includes 14 weeks of two-hour concerts held every Thursday in the Gazebo in the Plaza de la Constitución starting at 6pm. The series continues through August 31. All concerts are free, and attendees should bring lounge chairs for seating. Picnic dinners are popular, but alcoholic beverages are prohibited in the Plaza. Plaza de la Constitución / 904-825-1004 / King Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.citystaug.com

Little Shop of Horrors at Orange Park Community Theatre

June 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 23-24, 8pm; June 4, 11, 18, 25, 2pm

The Orange Park Community Theatre presents Little Shop of Horrors. The play is based on the PG-13 film by Roger Corman. General admission tickets are $25.

Orange Park Community Theater / 904-2762599 / 2900 Moody Avenue, Orange Park, FL 32073 / www.opct.info

Kattam and His Tam-Tams’ Rhythms of West Africa • June 5 – July 31

FSCJ Artist Series presents a Summer Virtual Field Trip. Join percussionist Kattam Laraki-Côté to discover the culture of West Africa through drumming, singing, and dancing. Experience the language and rhythms of the Krin, Djembe, Gongoma, Kashaka, N’goni, and Doum Doums, and learn how these instruments shaped and expressed regional culture. Explore the relationship between drums and dance in West African music. Students will learn to play percussion rhythms and learn a dance with Kattam as they watch the videos. Every video includes a challenge – a percussion phrase or a dance that viewers learn to perform. Recommended for students in grades 1-5. FSCJ Artist Series / 904-632-5050 / www.fscjartistseries.org

Paige Hernandez’ Hip Hop Body Rock

June 5 – July 31

Theatre and dance collide in bite-size experiences crafted by world-renowned educator and performer Paige Hernandez. This Arts Engagement features several warmups and two, two-part basic hip-hop routines. This series of videos is recommended for students in grades K-5. This is a virtual program.

FSCJ Artist Series / 904-632-5050 / www. fscjartistseries.org

Beauty and the Beast at the Alhambra

June 8 – July 23

Based on the Disney classic, this musical returns to the Alhambra stage. Showtimes vary, with matinees and evening performances available. There are no shows on Mondays. Tickets range from $45 to $78 each. Tickets include dinner and a show. The menu features three courses, including dessert. There is also a kids' menu available.

Alhambra Theater and Dining / 904-641-1212 / 12000 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.alhambrajax.com

Jax City Ballet: Sleeping Beauty

June 10, 4pm to 6:30pm

The Jax City Ballet performs the classic ballet Sleeping Beauty in one show only. The show is appropriate for all ages. Tickets range from $35 to $45.

Betsy Lovett Arts Center at The Bolles School / 2264 Bartram Road, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / jaxcityballet.org

Doug Berky's Gems: The World's Wisdom Stories • June 21, 11am and 1pm

Theatreworks hosts Free Summer Theatre. All of this year’s Free Summer Theatre events will take place at the Florida Theatre. In Doug Berky's Gems: The World's Wisdom Stories, Doug Berky believes that stories should be seen as well as heard. He uses improvisation, mime, masks, voice, and puppetry to let the story express itself. Florida Theatre / 904353-3500 / 128 E Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.floridatheatre.com

Doug Berky's No Show

June 22, 11am and 1pm

Theatreworks hosts Free Summer Theatre. All of this year’s Free Summer Theatre events will take place at the Florida Theatre. “No Show” is a comic tapestry woven from physical comedy, mime, music, mask theatre, clowning, improvisation, and circus arts. “No Show” begins with the premise that a performance has been scheduled, the stage is set with props and costumes, and the audience has gathered and is seated and waiting, but the actors are a no-show. What might happen when someone from the audience approaches the stage and discovers all that awaits? Florida Theatre / 904-353-3500 / 128 E Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.floridatheatre.com

Three Billy Goats Gruff

June 29, 11am and 1pm

Theatreworks hosts Free Summer Theatre. All of this year’s Free Summer Theatre events will take place at the Florida Theatre. “Three Billy Goats Gruff” is a lively and colorful musical production for young audiences featuring the nine-foot-tall body puppets and other characters from the internationally acclaimed Bits ‘N Pieces Puppet Theatre. The show features glow-in-the-dark puppets that sing and dance. Florida Theatre / 904-353-3500 / 128 E Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.floridatheatre.com

Bluey's Big Play

July 8-9, 2pm and 6pm

The #1 kids show on Disney Junior and Disney Channel comes to Jacksonville. Bluey’s Big Play is a brand-new theatrical adaptation of the Emmy® award-winning children’s television series with an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm and new music by Bluey composer Joff Bush. Tickets start at $34.50. Everyone, including infants and toddlers, must have a theater ticket for admission. VIP tickets that include a Meet & Greet and photo opportunity are also available.

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts / 904-632-5000 / 300 Water Street, Jackson-

ville, FL 32202 / www.fscjartistseries.org

Summer Musical Theatre Experience: Sister Act • July 21-30

The Florida State College at Jacksonville High School Summer Musical Theatre Experience is celebrating its 17th year providing theatre opportunities to 7th-12th graders in the First Coast area. This summer, more than 50 student performers and technicians will train with professional theatre artists in preparation for the production of Sister Act. This musical comedy adaptation is based on the 1992 movie of the same name. The performance is appropriate for all audiences and groups. Tickets are $20 to $25.

Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts / 904632-5000 / 11901 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.fscjartistseries.org

SUMMER GUIDE

SPORTING EVENTS

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Nashville Sounds • June 6-11

The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp take on the Nashville Sounds. Single game tickets start at $7, with multi-game and group packages available. Section 108 F-Q is a designated Family Section, with no alcohol allowed.

June 6, 7:05pm – Community First Credit Union

Two for Tuesday

June 7, 12:05pm – VyStar BOGO Tickets // Good Is Everywhere Wednesdays

June 8, 7:05pm

June 9, 7:05pm – Red Shirt Friday – fans who wear red save $1 on a ticket at the box office // Friday Night Fireworks // Fireworks Every Inning

June 10, 6:35pm – That One Night, In Dublin //

Duffle Bag Giveaway // Saturday Night Fireworks

June 11, 2:05pm – Baptist Health Sunday Family FUNday – 20-minute pre-game catch on the field, and kids can feel like the pros after each Sunday game by running the bases; there will also be free face painting and balloon animals // Sunday Pink

Scampi Jerseys // Wildlife Conservation Night

121 Financial Ballpark / 904-358-2846 / 301 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jaxshrimp.com

Jacksonville Sharks vs. Fayetteville Mustangs

June 10, 7pm

Arena football team the Jacksonville Sharks take on the Fayetteville Mustangs. Single game tickets start at $15. Family packs of tickets are also available, which includes four tickets, and four $10 vouchers which can be used at the concession stand or merchandise store. Family four pack tickets start at $100. Tonight is Hawaiian Night . Enjoy never-before-seen Hawaiian-themed Sharks jerseys that will be auctioned off at the end of the game during the on-field autograph session. Parents, this night will also feature Jr. Attack Dance Camp. If your child is 6-16 years old and would like to perform on the field with the award-winning Attack Dance Team, then sign up your children in advance.

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena / 904-621-0700 / 300 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxsharks.com

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Memphis Redbirds • June 13-18

The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp take on the Memphis Redbirds. Single game tickets start at $7, with multi-game and group packages available. Section 108 F-Q is a designated Family Section, with no alcohol allowed.

June 13, 7:05pm – Community First Two For Tuesday Night // Military Appreciation Night

June 14, 12:05pm – VyStar BOGO Tickets // Big Splash Day – water features set up and spraying the seats (sections 105-110 will be dry)

June 15, 7:05pm – Let's Put The FUN In Funeral –Ever want to know how many baseballs can fit in a coffin?

June 16, 7:05pm – Red Shirt Friday // Friday Night

Fireworks // Sideburns, Sequins & Fried Peanut Butter & Banana Sandwiches

June 17, 6:35pm – Red Caps Negro League Night w/ Sean Gibson // Saturday Night Fireworks // Red Caps Bobblehead

June 18, 3:05pm – Baptist Health Sunday Family FUNday – 20-minute pre-game catch on the field, and kids can feel like the pros after each Sunday game by running the bases; there will also be free

face painting and balloon animals // Sunday Pink Scampi Jerseys // Fathers' Day // Lego Ninjago Make-n-Take Event

121 Financial Ballpark / 904-358-2846 / 301 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jaxshrimp.com

Jacksonville Armada FC U-23 vs. Tallahassee SC

June 14, 7pm

Jacksonville’s official North American Soccer League club, Jacksonville Armada, takes on Tallahassee SC. Free admission, but you must have a ticket to attend. Tickets must be reserved online through Eventbrite. You will not be allowed into the stadium without a ticket. Tickets will be scanned when entering the stadium.

Hodges Stadium / 844-2-ARMADA / 1 South UNF Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.jacksonvillearmada.com

Jacksonville Axemen vs. Copperheads RLFC

June 17, 6:30pm

The Jacksonville Axemen Rugby League team invites fans out for their 2023 season. All home games will be played at the University of North Florida's Rugby Fields at 6:30pm. Single game tickets are available, or season tickets can also be purchased.

University of North Florida's Rugby Fields / 904514-8503 / 1 UNF Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.jaxaxe.com

Jacksonville Armada FC U-23 vs. Florida Roots FC • June 17, 7pm

Jacksonville’s official North American Soccer League club, Jacksonville Armada, takes on Florida Roots FC. Free admission, but you must have a ticket to attend. Tickets must be reserved online through Eventbrite. You will not be allowed into the stadium without a ticket. Tickets will be scanned when entering the stadium.

Hodges Stadium / 844-2-ARMADA / 1 South UNF Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.jacksonvillearmada.com

Jacksonville Sharks vs. Carolina Cobras

June 26, 7pm

Arena football team the Jacksonville Sharks take on the Carolina Cobras. Single game tickets start at $15. Family packs of tickets are also available, which include four tickets and four $10 vouchers that can be used at the concession stand or merchandise store. Family four-pack tickets start at $100. Tonight is also Star Wars Night. This long-time fan favorite theme is back, and it will be an action-packed night with lightsabers, Jedis, and Stormtroopers.

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena / 904-621-0700 / 300 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxsharks.com

Jacksonville Armada FC U-23 vs. New Orleans

Jesters • June 28, 7pm

Jacksonville’s official North American Soccer League club, Jacksonville Armada, takes on New Orleans Jesters. Free admission, but you must have a ticket to attend. Tickets must be reserved online through Eventbrite. You will not be allowed into the stadium without a ticket. Tickets will be scanned when entering the stadium.

Hodges Stadium / 844-2-ARMADA / 1 South UNF Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.jacksonvillearmada.com

SUMMER GUIDE

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Durham Bulls

June 28 – July 3

Single game tickets start at $7, with multi-game and group packages available. Section 108 F-Q is a designated Family Section, with no alcohol allowed.

June 28, 7:05pm – Canines and Crustaceans (Dog Day) // Good Is Everywhere Wednesday // VyStar BOGO Tickets

June 29, 7:05pm – Don't Drop The Baby

June 30, 7:05pm – Red Shirt Friday – fans who wear red save $1 on a ticket at the box office // 2023: A Space Odyssey // Friday Night Fireworks

July 1, 6:35pm – Hawaiian Shirt Giveaway

July 2, 3:05pm – Baptist Health Sunday Family FUNday – 20-minute pre-game catch on the field, and kids can feel like the pros after each Sunday game by running the bases; there will also be free face painting and balloon animals // Kids PA Day

July 3, 6:05pm – Independence Day Celebration // Patriotic Hat Giveaway

121 Financial Ballpark / 904-358-2846 / 301 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jaxshrimp.com

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Worcester Red Sox • July 14-16

Single game tickets start at $7, with multi-game and group packages available. Section 108 F-Q is a designated Family Section, with no alcohol allowed.

July 14, 7:05pm – Red Shirt Friday – fans who wear red save $1 on a ticket at the box office // Friday Night Fireworks // Captain Potato Friend, And The Table Of Parts

July 15, 6:35pm – Beach Blanket Giveaway //

National Give Something Away Day

July 16, 3:05pm – Baptist Health Sunday Family FUNday – 20-minute pre-game catch on the field, and kids can feel like the pros after each Sunday game by running the bases; there will also be free face painting and balloon animals // Southpaw's Birthday // Sunday Pink Scampi Jerseys

121 Financial Ballpark / 904-358-2846 / 301 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jaxshrimp.com

Jacksonville Sharks vs. Albany Empire

July 15, 7pm

Single game tickets start at $15. Family packs of tickets are also available, which include four tickets and four $10 vouchers that can be used at the concession stand or merchandise store. Family four-pack tickets start at $100. Tonight's theme is Halloween in July. Dress up in your scariest (or best) costumes to help send the Albany Empire back to New York with a ghostly loss. Best dressed could go home with a prize. There will also be monster movie moments and classic spooky scenes from the best Halloween movies new and old. Fans can also venture into the scare zone and experience characters from the 13th Floor Haunted House, Jacksonville’s legendary Halloween event. Join the team on the field after the game for a post-game autograph session. Meet your favorite Sharks players and Attack Dance Team members.

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena / 904-621-0700 / 300 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxsharks.com

Jacksonville Axemen vs. Atlanta Rhinos

July 15, 6:30pm

All home games will be played at the University of North Florida's Rugby Fields at 6:30pm. Single game tickets are available, or season tickets can also be purchased.

University of North Florida's Rugby Fields / 904514-8503 / 1 UNF Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.jaxaxe.com

Jacksonville Sharks vs. West Texas Warbirds

July 22, 7pm

Single game tickets start at $15. Family packs of tickets are also available, which include four tickets and four $10 vouchers that can be used at the concession stand or merchandise store. Family four-pack tickets start at $100. The theme for tonight is Military Appreciation (Fan Appreciation). The team will salute all the brave men and women that have served and continue to serve in our nation's armed forces with Military Appreciation Night. Stand with the Sharks to honor hometown heroes from all branches of service. All active duty and military veterans, as well as their families, are eligible to receive a special buy one get one free ticket offer. The Jacksonville Sharks will also wear a custom Military-Themed game jersey that will be auctioned off at the end of the game during the on-field autograph session. And to celebrate all the loyal fans, there will be special merchandise pricing and in-game giveaways. VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena / 904-621-0700 / 300 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxsharks.com

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Gwinnett Stripers • July 25-30

Single game tickets start at $7, with multi-game and group packages available. Section 108 F-Q is a designated Family Section, with no alcohol allowed.

July 25, 7:05pm – Community First Credit Union

Two for Tuesday // Military Appreciation Night

July 26, 7:05pm – Canines and Crustaceans (Dog Day) // VyStar BOGO Tickets

July 27, 7:05pm – Thanksgiving In July

July 28, 7:05pm – Red Shirt Friday – fans who wear red save $1 on a ticket at the box office // Friday Night Fireworks

July 29, 6:35pm – 80's Night & Shirt Giveaway

July 30, 3:05pm – Baptist Health Sunday Family FUNday – 20-minute pre-game catch on the field, and kids can feel like the pros after each Sunday game by running the bases; there will also be free face painting and balloon animals // Star Wars Night 121 Financial Ballpark / 904-358-2846 / 301 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jaxshrimp.com

Jacksonville Axemen vs. Tampa Mayhem

July 29, 6:30pm

All home games will be played at the University of North Florida's Rugby Fields at 6:30pm. Single game tickets are available, or season tickets can also be purchased.

University of North Florida's Rugby Fields / 904514-8503 / 1 UNF Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.jaxaxe.com

SUMMER GUIDE

DEALS

Kids Bowl Free

Registered kids can bowl two free games every day all summer. Age limit and lane times vary by location. Shoe rental not included; standard shoe rental rates apply. Discounted family passes are also available. St. Augustine/Anastasia Bowling Lanes, 3245

A1A S, St. Augustine, FL, 32080 / 904-4713565

Thru October 30 – Mondays thru Thursdays & Sundays, Open to Close; Fridays & Saturdays, Open to 8pm

Palatka/Putnam Lanes, 3834 Reid St, Palatka, FL, 32177 / 386-325-8795

Thru October 30 – Mondays thru Thursdays & Sundays, Open to Close; Fridays & Saturdays, Open to 8pm

Jacksonville/Batt Family Fun Center, 1838

Cassat Ave, Jacksonville, FL, 32210 /904-3892360

Thru September 11 – Mondays thru Saturdays, 10am to 6pm; Sundays, 11am to 5pm

Jacksonville/King Pins Bowling Center, 5310 Lenox Ave, Jacksonville, FL, 32205 / 904-3940895

Thru August 28 – Wednesdays & Thursdays, 1pm to 8pm; Fridays, 1pm to 10pm; Saturdays, 12noon to 10pm

Gainesville/Alley Gatorz, 2606 NE Waldo Rd, Gainesville, FL, 32609 / 352-373-0708

Thru October 30 – Mondays thru Thursdays & Sundays, Open to Close; Fridays & Saturdays, Open to 8pm

Palm Coast/Palm Coast Lanes, 11 Old Kings Rd North, Palm Coast, FL, 32137 / 386-4454004

Thru August 28 – Daily, Open to 5pm

Yulee/Yulee Bowl & Entertainment, 850822 US 17, Yulee, FL, 32097 / 904-225-107

June 5 thru August 4 – Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, 10am to 4pm; Wednesdays, 12noon to 4pm Kids Bowl Free / www.kidsbowlfree.com

High School Summer Pass at Planet Fitness

Planet Fitness is encouraging teens to get off the couch and into the gym this summer by offering free gym access for ages 14 to 19. Teens under 18 must sign up with a parent or guardian. Once registered, download the Planet Fitness app to get your Summer Pass digital club pass. Teens who sign up for the Summer Pass will be entered for a chance to win a scholarship. Planet Fitness / 844-8807180 / www.planetfitness.com

Cummer Museum Free Admission Specials

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens offers several admission specials. Free admission is

good for museum entry and excludes any ticketed events. Visiting exhibits on display include Rockwell Kent: The Shakespeare Portfolios and Outside In. These are in addition to the Permanent Collection of more than 5,000 works. The Permanent Collection spans from 2100 B.C. through the 21st century and includes masterpieces created by Mildred Thompson, Peter Paul Rubens, Winslow Homer, Thomas Moran, Whitfield Lovell, Norman Rockwell, and Romare Bearden. It is also home to the Wark Collection of Early Meissen Porcelain. Please note, not all works from the Permanent Collection are on display at any given time.

Second & Third Tuesdays, 4pm to 9pm, Sponsored by VyStar Credit Union // June 13, 20, July 11, 18, August 8, 15

Fourth Friday of each month, 4pm to 9pm, Sponsored by PNC Bank // June 23, July 28, August 25

First Saturday of each month, 10am to 4pm, Sponsored by Citi // June 3, July 1, August 5

First Full Weekend of each month, provided by Museums on Us // June 3-4, July 1-2, August

5-6

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens / 904-3566857 / 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.cummermuseum.org

Beaches Rock Gym Friday Kids Climb

Fridays, 11am to 9pm

Beaches Rock Gym hosts Kids Climb on Fridays. All Friday long climbers 17 and under are only $15 for a Day Pass (rentals included) or $13 if you have your own shoes. Each climber will need a waiver signed by their parent or guardian. Waivers can be signed in person or online. Beaches Rock Gym / 904222-0707 / 14 West 3rd Street, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 / www.beachesrockgym.com

Junior Jumpers Jam

Weekdays, 11am to 1pm

Altitude Trampoline Park offers a special admission offer for junior jumpers. Weekdays from 11am to 1pm, ages 6 and under can enjoy 60 minutes of unlimited access to trampolines and attractions, including soft play and other experiences designed with the littles in mind. The cost is $7 per child. Parent passes are available in-park for purchase. Altitude Safety Socks are required.

Altitude Trampoline Park / 904-801-1859 / 1214 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www.altitudetrampolinepark.com

Flight Fit N Fun Summer Jump Passes

Thru September 4

Flight Fit N Fun is offering Summer Jump Passes for the 2023 season. Take Flight every

day from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend. Cost for 60 minutes starts at $119, 120 minutes starts at $139, and the Family Pass is $349 for 60 minutes and $389 for 120 minutes. The Family Pass is valid for four jumpers. Pass is valid May 26 to September 4.

Flight Fit N Fun / 904-551-4035 / 7022 A C Skinner Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / flightadventurepark.com

Adventure Landing Saturday Swim Nights

June 17 – July 29

Adventure Landing hosts Saturday Swim Nights each week from June 17 to July 29. From 6pm to 10pm, admission is reduced to $21.99.

Adventure Landing / 904-246-4386 / 1944 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250

INDEPENDENCE DAY EVENTS

4th of July BBQ Competition • July 1, 5pm Celebrate the USA with a BBQ Competition at Historically Hoppy Brewing Company. Bring your best BBQ and vote for your favorite. Free to all to participate. Historically Hoppy Brewing Company is a Craft Brewery in the heart of Springfield.

Historically Hoppy Brewing Company / 904374-4750 / 1636 North Main Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206 / historicallyhoppy.com

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp Celebrate Independence Day • July 3, 6:05pm

The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp take on the Durham Bulls. Single game tickets start at $7, with multi-game and group packages available. Section 108 F-Q is a designated Family Section, with no alcohol allowed. To celebrate Independence Day, the Jumbo Shrimp will host the biggest fireworks display of the season. In addition, the first 2,000 fans through the gates will receive a patriotic hat. 121 Financial Ballpark / 904-358-2846 / 301 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jaxshrimp.com

St. Marys Independence Day Festival

July 4, 9am to 9:30pm

The Kiwanis Annual Independence Day Festival celebration offers hometown charm plus a parade and fireworks over the St. Marys River. Other activities include a 5K/10K Run, a kids’ fun run, arts & crafts vendors, and entertainment throughout the day. Organized and planned by the Kiwanis Club of St. Marys. The fireworks show will start at approximately 9:15pm. St. Marys Waterfront Park / 912882-4000 / 400 Osborne Street, St. Marys, GA 31558 / visitstmarys.com

Painting with a Twist: Fireworks Under the Bridge • July 4, 4pm to 6pm

Painting with a Twist hosts a Fireworks Under the Bridge painting event for ages 15 and up. The cost is $40 for a 16x20 canvas.

Painting with a Twist, Fruit Cove / 904-5184932 / 104 Bartram Oaks Walk, Fruit Cove, FL 32259 / www.paintingwithatwist.com

Jacksonville’s 4th of July Fireworks

Celebration

July 4, 5pm to 10:15pm

Join the City of Jacksonville to celebrate the nation's independence with the annual 4th of July Fireworks Celebration. The event offers an enhanced viewing experience this year with multiple locations to view from. There will be spectacular fireworks displays all around Jacksonville, with special events at Riverfront Plaza. The fireworks will begin at approximately 9:45pm.

Riverfront Plaza / 2 W Independent Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / events.coj.net

Fireworks Over the Matanzas

July 4, 6pm

The All Star Orchestra returns to the Plaza de la Constitución’s Gazebo to kick off the evening's activities with a two-hour concert starting at 6pm. The concert is free, and those attending should bring lounge chairs for seating. Fireworks Over the Matanzas, the highlight of St. Augustine’s traditional July 4th activities, will begin at 9:30pm. The 20-minute fireworks show is choreographed to patriotic music over an extensive sound system that carries over the entire bayfront area. Visitors are welcome to line the streets and sit anywhere along the Bridge of Lions and South Castillo Drive to view the fireworks from downtown. Be sure to bring blankets or chairs for seating.

Downtown St. Augustine / 904-825-1004 / 1 S Castillo Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.visitstaugustine.com

Ritz-Carlton 4th of July Red, White and Deep Blue Celebration • July 4, 6pm

The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island hosts an Independence Day celebration with an All-American Lawn Party. The menu features seafood, ceviches, shrimp cocktail, marinated steak and grilled local fish, summer vegetables, and a dessert bar. Entertainment includes games for the whole family and a front-row seat to the oceanfront fireworks show at 9:15pm. The cost is $159 for ages 10 and up and $85 for ages 4 to 9. A Food & Beverage package is available for $219 for ages 21 years and older.

The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island / 904-2771100 / 4750 Amelia Island Parkway, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 / www.ritzcarlton.com

SUMMER GUIDE

HANDS-ON FUN

Junior Artists

June 1 – July 31

Kids ages 5 to 8 are invited to the library for a live art program. Each week, library staff will read a book and then attendees will create artwork inspired by the theme. Registration is required for this event and must be completed two hours prior to the start time. Attendance is limited. Please arrive early to check in. Check-in starts 30 minutes prior to the start of the program.

May 29 – June 3

Theme: Summer Kick Off // Featured Book: Shark Dog! By Ged Adamson

June 5-10

Theme: Teamwork // Featured Book: Colors versus Shapes by Mike Boldt

June 12-17

Theme: Family // Featured Book: The Katha Chest by Radhiah Chowdhury

June 19-24

Theme: Robots and Monsters // Featured

Book: Leonardo the Terrible Monster by Mo Willems

June 26 – July 1

Theme: Neighbors // Featured Book: May I

Come In? by Marsha Diane Arnold

Mondays, June 5, 12, 26, July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 4pm to 5pm – Southeast Regional Branch

Tuesdays, June 6, 13, 20, 27, July 11, 18, 25, 12noon to 1pm – South Mandarin Branch

Wednesdays, June 7, 14, 21, 28, 3:30pm to 4:30pm – Argyle Branch

Thursdays, June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, July 6, 13, 20, 27, 4pm to 5pm – Highlands Regional Branch

Jacksonville Public Library / 904-255-2665 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

Southeast Regional Branch / 10599 Deerwood Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32256

South Mandarin Branch / 12125 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223

Argyle Branch / 7973 Old Middleburg Road South, Jacksonville, FL 32222

Highlands Regional Branch / 1826 Dunn Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32218

Home Depot Kids Workshop

June 3, July 1, August 5, 9am to 12noon

Offered the first Saturday of each month between 9am and 12 noon. All kids get to keep their craft and receive a free certificate of achievement, a workshop apron, and a commemorative pin while supplies last. Kids can build their project and finish it with paint. Free for kids 5 to 12.

June 3 – Putting Green

July 1 – Fireworks Bean Bag Toss

August 5 – Treasure Chest

Area Home Depot Stores / www.homedepot.com

Drop-in Saturday Morning Cartooning

June 3, 17, 9:30am to 11:30am

Meet up to get feedback on your comics

projects, discover helpful resources, and learn about submitting your self-published comics to the library's collection. Open to first-time comics creators and anyone who wants feedback on their comics in progress. Bring your pages to the Main Library 1st floor. This is not a kids' how-to-draw program, it's intended for adults who want to make comics. Teens who are serious about making comics are welcome. Metered parking is free all day on Saturdays.

Jacksonville Public Library, Main Branch / 904-255-2665 / 303 N Laura Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

Lowe's Kids Workshop

June 10, July 15, August 12, 10am to 1pm

Bring your mini-DIYer into Lowe’s at one of the select time slots. Workshops hosted by Red Vest experts are held from 10am to 1pm, in-store only. If you are unable to attend during your selected timeslot, your kit may be given away to walk-ins starting at 1pm the day of the workshop.

June 10 – Lawn Mower Photo Holder

July 15 – Tic-Tac-Toe Grill Game

August 12 – Rolling Toy Pickup Truck Lowe's / www.lowes.com

MOCA Jacksonville Kids Art Lab

June 10, July 8, August 12, 12noon to 1:30pm

Kids ages 6-10 are invited to join MOCA Educators for engaging art activities inspired by a monthly theme. Each session includes a trip to the galleries to see how artists are inspired by STEAM topics, plus an interactive and creative project that attendees can bring home. Held the second Saturday of the month. Tickets are $10, with discounts for MOCA members.

Summer 2023 Monthly Themes

June 10 – Insect Kingdom

July 8 – Get Real

August 12 – Inside Out

MOCA Jacksonville / 904-620-4204 / 333 N Laura Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / mocajacksonville.unf.edu

Michael's Camp Creativity

June 19 – July 14, 10am to 12noon

This summer, Michael's Stores host Camp Creativity, where kids 6 and up can participate in weekly themed projects. Sign up in advance. Purchase supplies in advance and participate for free. Held Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10am to 12noon. A different project will be featured each day. A parent or guardian must remain on-site. Classes are held in-store, live online, on-demand, or self-guided.

Week 1 – One of a Kind – June 19, 21, 23

Week 2 – Wild One – June 26, 28, 30

Week 3 – Have Fun – July 3, 5, 7

Week 4 – Hello Summer – July 10, 12, 14 Michaels / www.michaels.com

Pablo Creek Plaza East / 904-821-9753 /

13740 Beach Blvd, Ste 200, Jacksonville, FL 32224

Regency Commons / 904-724-7282 / 651800 Commerce Center Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32225

Southside Square Shopping Center / 904363-3618 / 9041 Southside Blvd, Ste 140, Jacksonville, FL 32256

Mandarin / 904-260-6602 / 11111 San Jose Blvd, Ste 31, Jacksonville, FL 32223

River City Marketplace / 904-714-9817 / 13281 City Station Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32218

Argyle Village Square / 904-779-2084 / 6001

Argyle Forrest Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32244

Island Walk / 904-269-7044 / 1993 East West Pkwy, Fleming Island, FL 32003

Cobblestone Village / 904-829-9664 / 310 CBL Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32086

Publix Aprons Camps – Kids & Juniors

June 26-28, 10am, 4:30pm, 8:30pm

Publix Aprons hosts three days of chef camps for kids ages 8 and up. Register online in advance, as classes fill up quickly. Cost is $135 for the three days. Kids Camp is for ages 8 to 10 and will be held at 10am. Kids are invited to learn all about breakfast, lunch, and dinner and how to mix up the meals. Day one is Breakfast, featuring Berry Trio Smoothie, Turkey Bacon Egg Cups, Tater Bite Breakfast Casserole, and Strawberry Jam Breakfast Bars. Day two is Lunch, with Loaded Baked Potato Soup, White Mountain Bread Gourmet Grilled Cheese, Custard-Style Mac and Cheese, and Key Lime Pie Milkshakes. Day three, Dinner, includes Cobb Salad, Meatloaf Cupcakes with Mashed Potato Icing, Air Fryer Weeknight Beef Chimichangas, and Puffy Chocolate Chip Cookies. Junior Camp is for ages 11 to 12 and will be held at 4:30pm. Learn all about pasta dishes from around the world. Day one is Italy, featuring Fresh Pasta Dough, Creamy Pappardelle with Leeks and Pancetta, Spaghetti and Ricotta Meatballs, and Tiramisu Cookies. Day two is Thai, featuring San Francisco-Style Garlic Noodles, Grilled Lemongrass Beef Rice Noodles, Sesame Noodles, and Coconut Milkshakes. Day three is Fusion, featuring Steamed Pork Sui Mai, Creamy Caesar Chicken Tortellini, Multicooker Lasagna, and Mango Hand Pies with Royal Icing. Teen Camp is for ages 13-17. Learn how to upgrade from the basics of cooking to dishes that are a bit more refined and adventurous. Day one is Upgraded with Clams in Garlicky Chorizo Broth, Avocado, and Hearts of Palm Salad with Goat Cheese Dressing, Bison and Lamb Double-Bacon Cheeseburgers, and Cream Puffs. Day two is Southern-Inspired, with Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits, Mesquite-Rubbed Air Fryer Chicken Wings with Roasted Pumpkin Seed Hot Sauce, Multicooker Beef and Barley, and Thin Chocolate Chip Cookies. Day three is Fusion, with Tempura Shrimp, Asparagus, and Sesame Seed Roll, German-Style Potato Salad with Warm Mustard Vinaigrette, Hot Honey-Glazed

Salmon with Crispy Almond-Coconut Topping, and Apple-Ginger Upside Down Cake.

Publix Aprons Cooking School / 904-262-4187 / 10500 San Jose Blvd Ste 36, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.publix.com

Summer Cooking for Older Kids: Caribbean Dreaming

June 26, 6:30pm to 9pm

Jax Cooking Studio hosts a series for children 12 or older coming alone or adults coming with a child 10 or older. The menu features BBQ Mango Meatballs, Fried Coconut Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Slaw, Caribbean Rice and Beans, and Guava Cupcakes with Guava Cream Cheese Frosting. Each person (adult and child) will receive enough ingredients to prepare a generous portion of every menu item or one cake per person for cake decorating classes. Registration starts at $65. Jax Cooking Studio / 904-379-6220 / 14035 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / jaxcookingstudio.com

Summer Cake Baking and Decorating

July 15, 2pm to 4:30pm

All ages are invited to decorate a cake with gorgeous summer flowers. You’ll learn and practice the art of leveling, applying a crumb coat and a top layer of frosting, and decorating. You will learn to pipe various designs to create your beautifully finished cake. Each guest will bake a two-layer 6" cake, but during class, you will learn to decorate using premade cake layers that have been thoroughly cooled and are ready to be frosted. You will take your cake layers home to practice again while the lessons of the class are still fresh in your mind. Registration starts at $70.

Jax Cooking Studio / 904-379-6220 / 14035 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / jaxcookingstudio.com

Harry Potter Cooking Classes at Jax Cooking Studios

July 30, 10am, 2pm, 6pm

In celebration of Harry Potter's birthday, Jax Cooking Studios offers several themed cooking classes. Attendees of any of the classes are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite character. In addition, complimentary butterbeer will be served. Registration starts at $70.

10am to 12:30pm – Harry Potter Birthday Brunch for Families

2pm to 4:30pm – Harry Potter Birthday Sweet Treats

6pm to 8:30pm – Harry Potter’s Birthday Feast for Families

Jax Cooking Studio / 904-379-6220 / 14035 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / jaxcookingstudio.com

SUMMER GUIDE

SUMMER READING

Nemours Reading BrightStart!

Nemours BrightStart!’s mission is to promote reading success and prevent reading failure for all children, focusing on birth to age 8. Through innovative programs, research, advocacy, and partnerships, they design and implement unique and highly effective tools and training that consistently yield life-changing results. They feature monthly articles, activities, and books, as well as a preschool reading screener to determine reading readiness.

Nemours Reading BrightStart! / www.readingbrightstart.org

The Good and the Beautiful Summer Reading

Children of all ages can participate in the Summer Reading by using the free PDF downloads to track summer reading and set goals. The download includes free reading logs and printable bookmarks. The website also features reading lists, free audiobooks, free printable K-8 Language Arts lessons, free printable math for grades K-6, learning apps, and more.

The Good and the Beautiful / www. goodandbeautiful.com

Scholastic Summer Reading

Thru September 7

The Scholastic Summer Reading program offers kids a free and safe summer reading experience while helping to provide books to kids with limited or no access over the summer, keeping every child reading. From May 4 through September 7th, kids can visit the summer zone in Scholastic Home Base, a completely free digital destination that offers stories, characters, games, and a community of readers. Home Base is moderated for safety 24/7.

Scholastic Inc / www.scholastic.com

Camp Book It Summer Reading

June 1 – August 31

Camp Book It is open to all families with Pre-K through 6th-grade students (ages 4-12).

Parents set goals, track reading, and reward their students, all in a digital dashboard. When your child meets their summer reading goal, move the slider to receive their certificate for a Personal Pan Pizza in your email. Use the serialized code on your child’s certificate to redeem at area Pizza Hut locations.

Pizza Hut Book It / www.bookitprogram.com

2023 Summer at the Library

June 1 – August 12

Follow along for a summer of reading and learning at your Jacksonville Public Library. From June 1 through August 12, residents of all ages will be able to participate at their favorite library location (and even at home) with educational programs, weekly drop-in activities, reading and other book-related challenges, scavenger hunts, and more. All of the programs are free and open to everyone. Summer Kick-Off Parties will be held at area branches from June 1-9. Attendees can get a free book to start building their own home library. Thanks to Tenikka's Books for Kids annual book drive and generous donations from the Friends of the Jacksonville Public Library and others, there's everything from board books and picture books for the littlest readers to chapter books and graphic novels for teens available. And don't miss the end-ofsummer Closing Parties held from August 7-12 for another chance at a free book. Jacksonville Public Library / 904-255-2665 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

2023 UNF Summer Reading Programs

June 1 – August 5

The University of North Florida offers Summer Reading Programs for children of all ages and adults. The program is being offered online. This program brings together time-tested reading and writing skills instruction, great books, and an experienced, inspiring teacher from the Institute of Reading Development, a leader in live online education for children. The six-week program includes weekly online classes led by an expert teacher, interactive skill lessons and games between classes, books at the appropriate level of challenge, and personal support anytime during the program with one-on-one appointments or an exclusive helpline. The program cost is $259, plus $39 for materials and shipping. Institute of Reading Development / 800-9032173 / unf.readingclasses.org

Sync Summer Reading Program for Teens 2023 • Thru August 2

Sync is a free summer audiobook program for teens 13+. Each week, Sync will give away two complete audiobook downloads, pairs of high-interest titles based on weekly themes. Titles are delivered through Sora, the student reading app from OverDrive. In advance of accessing the program, download the app from Apple or Google to the device you anticipate listening on. Each Sync audiobook will be available for download for a period of seven days only. Titles, once downloaded, are yours to keep.

JaxKids Book Club

June 10, 17, 24, July 1, 8, 15, 22, 3pm

June 12, 26, July 3, 10, 17, 24, 10:15am

The JaxKids Book Club is a free club, held on Saturdays and Mondays, focused on promoting early literacy for children and their families. Each year, all Duval County Pre-Kindergarten students preparing to enter Kindergarten receive a free backpack of books to start their

love of reading and build their home libraries. Backpacks will be available at this storytime for anyone who didn’t receive one, while supplies last. Registration is required for this event and must be completed two hours prior to the start time. Held at locations throughout Jacksonville.

Jacksonville Public Library / 904-255-2665 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

Tips for Camping with Kids Visit a Spring This Summer TRAVEL

Camping with kids may seem like a tough challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. A family overnight outside is a great way to initiate the younger set to the joys of being in nature. From babies to teens, kids of all ages will find so many things to captivate them on a camping trip:

Here are some tips for getting started – and for making the experience a memorable one.

Practice Camping at Home

If your kids are outdoor newbies, pitch a tent in the backyard or even inside your home. Let them hang out in it and sleep in it so they become comfortable with a new sleeping environment. Try a family day outing at a close-to-home park. Spend a half day or so at a park and see how your kids react to the experience.

Set Reasonable Expectations (or Expect the Unexpected)

Face it — things happen – muddy hands and faces, s'mores matted in hair, a leaky tent, or a late-night trip to the bathroom. Going into a trip knowing that there will be bumps helps when dealing with them as they arise. They also make great memories and stories later in life. (Pro tip: Refer to any trial or tribulation as an adventure.)

Find the Right Campsite

Pick campgrounds with amenities that suit your family’s needs. Some campgrounds have ballfields, beaches or swimming areas, streams or rivers, and playgrounds; others offer picnic tables, flushing toilets, and hot showers. If it’s your first time out, start small, stick close to home, and choose more developed campgrounds with buckets of amenities. Work your way up to more remote or adventurous locations or longer trips.

Pack the Right Stuff

Let your child have a say in the packing process. They’ll appreciate getting to have input, and it’s a great opportunity to teach them what to bring along and what to leave at home. If your kids are older, create a list for them to pack. Remember to pack clothes so you can layer.

Get the Kids Involved

It can be frustrating trying to set up a tent or prepare a meal when the kids are running around getting into things. Plan and assign

them tasks appropriate for their age and ability; little ones can gather kindling, and older kids can wash dishes or set up their own tents.

Pack Food Kids Like

Allow your kids to help contribute to menu planning so they get excited about the trip. Ask them what they would like to eat and what treats they want. Pack foods you know they’ll like. Keep ready-to-go snacks that are accessible while you’re traveling and at the campsite.

Research Activities

Know what activities are available at your destination. Be ready with some potential ideas when the kids say: “I’m bored.” More developed campgrounds have bulletin boards that map out easy nature trails. Can you rent a boat or is there room to ride bikes?

Think Safety

Once you get to a campsite, set ground rules for where your children can roam, and talk about what they should do if they get lost. What are the boundaries? Are they allowed beyond the parking lot or near water? At night, make sure they have access to a flashlight or headlamp.

Stick to a Familiar Bedtime Routine

If you read with your child before bed each night, don’t skip it just because you’re camping. Young kids love routine. Put them in sleeping pajamas, brush teeth, and read. For babies, keep their sleeping habits as close to routine as possible.

Find Balance

A full day of camping and recreating can make even adults tired. Schedule activities that are fun for everyone yet allow for some downtime off your feet.

You’re not going to create the perfect experience the first or even second time out. Take notes at the end of each trip to remind yourself what you should bring next time, what you can leave behind, or how you might do things differently. j

Springs offer visitors unsurpassed locations to swim, snorkel, scuba dive, and observe wildlife. Luckily for us, Florida has a wealth of recreational opportunities available at springs.

Boating and Tubing

Discover the secrets of a spring up close and personal in a canoe, kayak, or inner tube. Of all of Florida's spring parks and recreation areas offering canoeing, kayaking, and tubing opportunities, Ichetucknee Springs State Park is considered by many to be one of the finest in the state. With more than seven miles of swiftly flowing river and three separate canoe and tube launches, it can attract as many as 3,000 visitors a day during peak summer months.

Camping and Picnicking

Connect with friends on a picnic outing or stargaze during a camping trip at any one of many great parks located at springs.

During the day, picnickers can swim and snorkel in the clear, cool waters of headsprings, walk along nature trails, and gaze deep underwater on glass-bottom boat tours. At night, under a canopy of stars and enveloped in a symphony of crickets and tree frogs, campers can literally have the springs to themselves, as it might have been for Florida's first residents 10,000 years ago. Many spring parks offer cabins, tent camping, and sites for recreational vehicles, as well as showers, convenience stores, or concession stands. Canoe, kayak, and snorkel rentals can be found at the water's edge at several spring parks.

Swimming and Snorkeling

Immerse yourself in a spring and your breath will be taken away, first by the chilly waters and then by the incredible array of fish and turtles that you’ll see. Florida's cool spring waters provide quick relief during the sweltering summer for local residents and visitors from afar. Beneath the surface, springs also support one of the most diverse freshwater ecosystems in North America. With only a mask, snorkel, and fins, you can discover this world for yourself, seeing fish up close, unique underwater plants, and maybe, even a manatee.

Scuba Diving and Cave Diving

Florida is famous around the world as a scuba

and cave diving destination. From deep cave diving by researchers and scientists at Wakulla Springs to recreational cavern and cave diving, Florida's springs offer a chance to probe depths where few will ever go.

Cave divers can descend into large, open caverns, view rare fish and aquatic invertebrates, and test their skills in some of the longest, deepest, and most challenging underwater cave systems on earth.

Some of the most popular and interesting springs diving destinations include Peacock Springs and Ginnie Springs, the most visited freshwater diving spot in the world.

Nature Photography and Wildlife Observation

The springs' constant year-round temperature and stable water flow provide an ideal habitat for hundreds of species of native and migratory wildlife, including such unique animals as the bald eagle, river otter, and manatee. As a result, many springs parks and recreation areas offer an ideal location for wildlife observation and nature photography.

Of all of Florida's springs that offer visitors the opportunity to observe native wildlife up close, few are more famous than Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, which allows visitors to see the manatee and an incredible variety of saltwater fish through one of the world's largest submerged freshwater observatories.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Silver Springs first offered glass-bottom boat tours in the 1870s, making it one of Florida's first tourist destinations. This tradition spread to other springs and continues to attract visitors from around the world. Today at Silver Springs, you can take in a concert by the Beach Boys or other musical groups, and at Wakulla Springs around Halloween, you are guaranteed a scary encounter during the "Creature from the Black Lagoon" film festival. Weeki Wachee Springs, better known as the "Home of the Mermaids," was the first place to offer visitors a front-row seat to the world's first "underwater ballet." Many springs state parks and recreation areas also offer guided nature tours and other special events to help visitors better understand and appreciate the spring ecosystem. j

floridadep.gov

Things to Do Education Events

STEAM & Stories

June 5, 12, 26,

July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 3:30pm

STEAM & Stories (ages 5-12) is a live program inspired by a book. On Mondays each week, participants will read a book and then participate in a hands-on activity inspired by the book. Jacksonville Public Library, Mandarin Branch / 904-255-2665 / 3330 Kori Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / axpubliclibrary.org

Planetarium Night Live Presents “The Cosmic Web”

June 16, 7pm to 8:30pm

The Bryan-Gooding Planetarium at MOSH presents Planetarium Night Live!, a program that allows you to expand your mind and explore the cosmos through space simulations, storytelling, interactive demonstrations, and immersive, live-narrated video projection under the Planetarium’s 60-foot dome. There is an enormous structure in the Universe that our little neighborhood in space helps hold

up. Share in immensity with this program that investigates the single largest pattern found in nature — the Cosmic Web. Doors to the Museum open at 6:30pm; show starts at 7pm. Suggested for ages 13 and up. Admission is $10 for Museum Members and $12 for Non-Members.

MOSH / 904-396-6674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org

FSCJ Summer Open House 2023

June 17, 9am to 1pm

Community members are invited for an Open House at FSCJ. Attendees will have the opportunity to apply on-site in the FSCJ Application room, get help filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), explore FSCJ degrees and certificates, discover opportunities to get involved on campus, meet FSCJ faculty and program representatives, get answers to your questions regarding financial aid, scholarships, and admissions, and more. Free to attend, but please register so they know how many to plan for. FSCJ has several campus locations throughout Jacksonville; however, this event will be held at the South Campus. FSCJ South Campus / 904-6462300 / 11901 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.fscj.edu

DoDad's Lab presents "Air Science"

June 20, 10:30am

The Professor is back with a science program that will blow you away. Professor DoDad will be sharing about the Science of Air. The Professor will be sharing science demonstrations, music, comedy, and a return of Joey, his favorite sidekick. Free. Clay County Public Library, Green Cove Springs Branch / 904-284-6315 / 403 Ferris Street, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 / www.claycountygov.com

Leverage Your Summer to Get a Head Start

on Fall • June 21, 6pm

Summer is a great time for students to catch up and get ahead at their own pace. Parents will learn about tips they can implement and programs in which their child can enroll to avoid falling behind during the summer while still enjoying their break. This includes which key areas and subjects to focus on over the summer. Free to attend this virtual event. Revolution Prep / 877-738-7737 / www.revolutionprep.com

A Parent’s Guide to Helping Your Student Achieve a More Organized State

June 29, 9pm

Join speaker Katherine Marino for an hourlong interactive webinar designed to equip

parents with effective digital and physical organizational techniques for their students. This webinar will provide industry-leading strategies on topics such as binder setup, planner use, and color coding to organize digital resources. By attending, you’ll not only learn these techniques but also discover how to introduce and support your students in consistently utilizing them to establish positive lifelong executive functioning habits. Free. Revolution Prep / 877-738-7737 / www.revolutionprep.com

Blacksmith Demonstration with Underhill Forge • July 15, 10am

Join library staff for an afternoon of learning about blacksmith work and its history. The demonstration will be presented by Jacob Underhill from Underhill's Forge. The program is suggested for adults but check with the library to ensure appropriate age attendance. Free to attend. Clay County Public Library, Orange Park Branch / 904-278-4750 / 2054 Plainfield Ave, Orange Park, FL 32073 / www.claycountygov.com

PETS

Did you know you can often adopt a pet from a shelter or rescue for a fraction of the price of buying one? And possibly save on early ownership costs and receive valuable new owner support? If you're thinking about adding a pet to the family, here are 12 great reasons to consider visiting local shelters and rescues to find your new family member.

1. Many shelters and most rescue organizations do assessments on every new pet taken in to determine things like temperament, whether the pet has any aversion to other pets or people, whether she’s housetrained, has had obedience training, etc. Many of these organizations also have resources to help pets with lack of training or behavioral issues. So, when you adopt a pet from one of these organizations, you have a pretty good idea of what to expect from your new dog or cat when you bring her home.

2. Compared to the cost of purchasing a pet, adopting one from an animal shelter is relatively inexpensive. And if you get a slightly older dog or cat, there's a good chance they’re already fully vaccinated and sterilized.

3. There are plenty of animals to choose from at most rescues and shelters. They come in every age, shape, size, coat color, and breed mix, and you can find purebreds at shelters as well. In fact, many breeds have their own rescue organizations, so if you're looking for a purebred, make sure to check both your local shelter and breed rescue organization.

4. Adopting a mature dog or cat takes the guesswork out of determining what your pet will look like as an adult — what size she'll grow to, the thickness and color of her coat, and her basic temperament, for example.

5. Adopting an older pet also allows you to skip over the time-consuming, often frustrating puppy or kitten stages of development.

6. Depending on her background, your older pet may already be house-trained or litterbox trained and know basic obedience commands like come, sit, stay, and down.

7. An older adoptive pet can be the perfect companion for an older person. Many middle-aged and senior dogs and cats require less physical exertion and attention than younger animals.

8. If you have kids, and especially if the new pet will belong to a child, adopting a shelter animal can open a young person's eyes to the plight of homeless pets. It can also help him learn compassion and responsibility, as well as how wonderful it feels to provide a forever home to a pet that might otherwise live life in a cage or be euthanized.

9. Many shelters and rescues provide lots of new owner support in the form of materials about training, common behavior problems, nutrition, basic grooming, and general care. In some cases, there are even free hotlines you can call for questions on behavior, training, and other concerns.

10. Every dog or cat not purchased from a pet store or backyard breeder improves the pet overpopulation problem.

11. Adopting a dog or cat from a no-kill shelter can free up space for older or special needs pets that may not find new homes before the end of their natural lives.

12. An adopted pet can enrich your life in ways both big and small. The unconditional love and loyalty of an animal companion can lift depression, ease loneliness, lower blood pressure, and give you a reason to get up in the morning. A kitty asleep in your lap feels warm and comforting. A dog who loves to walk or run outdoors can be just the incentive you need to start exercising regularly.

There are countless benefits to being a pet parent, and when you know you saved your furry friend from an unpleasant fate, it makes the bond you share that much more meaningful. j

barkandwhiskers.com

ShotVet Pet Clinics

June 3, 4, 11, 17, 18, 25

July 1, 2, 9, 15, 16

Things to Do Pet Events 12 Great Reasons to Adopt a Shelter Pet

Low-cost pet vaccinations, given by licensed veterinarians. No appointments are necessary.

June 3, 17, July 1, 15, 8am to 9am

– Ace Hardware

June 4, 18, July 2, 16, 12noon to 1pm

– Bruster’s Ice Cream

June 3, 17, July 1, 15, 10am to 11am

– Tires Plus

June 4, 18, July 2, 16, 2pm to 3pm

– Starbucks

June 4, 18, July 2, 16, 4pm to 5pm

– PDQ Restaurant

June 4, 18, July 2, 16, 10am to 11am

– Cure Pharmacy at Publix

June 3, 17, July 1, 15, 12noon to 1pm

– Lowe’s

June 11, 25, July 9, 3:30pm to 4:30pm

– Chili's

June 11, 25, July 9, 12:30pm to 1:30pm

– Dunkin’ Donuts

June 3, 17, July 15, 8am to 9am

– Holiday Inn

ShotVet Pet Clinics / 407-792-0384 / www. shotvet.com

Ace Hardware / 2771 Monument Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32225

Bruster's Ice Cream / 12224 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225

Tires Plus / 13162 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225

Starbucks / 13315 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225

PDQ Restaurant / 3260 Hodges Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32224

Cure Pharmacy at Publix / 7001 Merrill Rd #13, Jacksonville, FL 32277

Lowe's / 8080 Philips Hwy, Jacksonville, FL 32256

Chili's / 13891 Old St Augustine Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32258

Holiday Inn / 11262 Old St Augustine Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32257

School’s Out Adoption Event

June 3-11

All adoptions at Jacksonville Humane Society are $20 Saturday, June 3 through Sunday, June 11 to celebrate summer vacation. JHS is open 12pm – 7pm on weekdays and 10am – 5pm on weekends. Additional fees may apply.

Jacksonville Humane Society / 904-725-8766 / 8464 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32216 / jaxhumane.org

Back to the 80's Pawty

June 4, 5pm to 7:30pm

Bring your big hair, your tight-rolled jeans, neon colors, and jelly bracelets to Skate Station in Orange Park for a Back to the

80's Pawty. For those who don't want to skate, there will be plenty of other activities including photo opportunities, a dance-off, and a costume contest. The event will help Safe Animal Shelter, a no-kill shelter, in Clay County, Florida, raise money to continue serving the animals and people in our community. Tickets are $20 each.

Skate Station Funworks Of Orange Park / 904-272-5600 / 230 Blanding Blvd, Orange Park, FL 32073 / funworks.com

Purrfect Library Cat Cafe

June 21, 10am

Nassau County Public Library and Nassau County Animal Services team up once again to present The Purrfect Library Cat Café at the Hilliard Public Library. Visit with the cats and browse information on pet care. Staff will be looking for loving homes for these cats, but adoption is not necessary to visit. All funds raised support both the Nassau County Public Library and Nassau County Animal Services.

Nassau County Public Library, Hilliard Branch / 904-530-6500 / 15821 Co Rd 108, Hilliard, FL 32046 / nassaureads.com

St. Augustine Exotic Bird Expo

June 25, 9am to 4pm

The St. Augustine Exotic Bird Expo is an exotic bird event bringing a unique variety of vendors and bird breeders together. This is a great place to get a new feathered friend, cages, toys, supplies, and food all in one place. Admission is $5, and children under 10 are free. Free parking. Open to the public. Renaissance WGV / 904-819-9506 / 500 S Legacy Trail, St. Augustine, FL 32092 / www.staugustineexoticbirdfair.com

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp Canines & Crustaceans Dog Day

June 28, 7:05pm

vs. the Durham Bulls

July 26, 7:05pm

vs. the Gwinnett Stripers

Single game tickets start at $7, with multigame and group packages available. Section 108 F-Q is a designated Family Section, with no alcohol allowed. Canines and Crustaceans (Dog Day) – The Jumbo Shrimp and Forever Vets Animal Hospital welcome you and your canine companion to 121 Financial Ballpark. Canines get in free as long as their human companion buys a ticket. Dog-free seating is located in section 119 and the Wheelhouse Lounge and the Haskell Suite Level. Be sure to bring a water bowl for your four-legged friend.

121 Financial Ballpark / 904-358-2846 / 301 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jaxshrimp.com

Like Jax4Pets.com’s Facebook page at facebook.com/jax4pets to find out about other events for pets.

Are Birds More Intelligent Than We Thought?

Many birds are incredibly intelligent, with an ability to recognize individual faces, plan for the future, and even hold grudges when they’ve been wronged in the past. Their exceptional cognitive abilities are similar to those found in some mammals, a puzzle that has riddled scientists for years because birds lack a cerebral cortex — the area of the brain in mammals that’s often assumed to be responsible for advanced cognitive skills.

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum in Germany have now uncovered, however, that a previously undetected brain structure in birds may act similarly to the cerebral cortex, explaining the longstanding mystery of how birds achieve such incredible cognitive feats.

Pallium in Birds’ Forebrain Contain High Cognitive Abilities

When researchers used 3D polarized light imaging to analyze the brains of three homing pigeons, they found a region in the forebrain called the pallium, which has fibers organized similarly to those in mammals’ cortexes.

“This research confirms the old adage that looks can be deceiving,” John Marzluff, a crow specialist at the University of Washington, Seattle, who was not involved in the study, told Science magazine. He noted that although the brains “look very different, this study shows us they are actually wired in very complementary ways.”

Specifically, the cerebral cortex in mammals has a distinctive layered architecture, which is similar to that found in the bird pallium. “Despite the nuclear organization of the bird pallium, it has a cyto-architectonic organization that is reminiscent of the mammalian cortex,” the researchers wrote in Science.

Crows Are Likely Self-Aware

A second study adds to the exciting findings that humans have likely been incorrectly dismissing birds’ potential for intelligence and self-awareness for decades. In a second study published in Science, researchers from the University of Tübingen used a test that signals signs of consciousness in primates, namely looking for a sudden activation of neurons in response to certain cues.

As occurs in primates, when carrion crows responded to a cue they’d been trained to react to by either moving or staying still, specific neurons reacted, suggesting they had consciously reacted to the cue. The neurons

Things to Do Nature Events

IllumiNights Summer Spectacle

Thru August 11, 6pm to 10pm

that reacted were located in the pallium, and the researchers suggested that “Such activity might be a broad marker for consciousness.”

In an analysis of the two studies, Suzana Herculano-Houzel of the Vanderbilt Brain Institute at Vanderbilt University in Tennessee noted the studies show birds do have a brain “cortex” and “think.”

While some researchers remain reluctant to admit that species other than humans could have consciousness, the research reveals that the crows in the study were aware of the cues they were shown and “know what they know.” Study author Andreas Nieder told Stat News:

“I think it demonstrates convincingly that crows and probably other advanced birds have sensory awareness, in the sense that they have specific subjective experiences that they can communicate. Besides crows, this kind of neurobiological evidence for sensory consciousness only exists in humans and macaque monkeys.”

Birds as Pets Need Mental Stimulation

Crows belong to the corvid family along with ravens, magpies, jackdaws, and jays. These birds are known for their uncanny intelligence that’s far above that of most other birds and even many mammals. But other birds, such as African grey parrots and blue-headed macaws, are also known for their high intelligence.

Parrots, for instance, demonstrate acts of altruism, voluntarily helping each other to obtain food rewards even if there’s no incentive in it for themselves. The emerging research on birds’ significant cognitive abilities not only serves as a reminder to respect other creatures on Earth, even if they appear different from us, but also to give them proper care if you end up as their guardian.

If you are interested in sharing your home with one of these fascinating creatures, be aware that they’re high-maintenance pets that require a great deal of specialized care, including social interaction and mental stimulation on par with what you would give to at least a preschooler to avoid developing behavioral problems. j

barkandwhiskers.com

At IllumiNights Summer Spectacle, on Friday nights you can adventure through the park before the sun sets to enjoy the Zoo after hours and see animals out until sunset. Once it’s dark, stroll through a fantasy landscape of nature featuring rich lighting. There will be live music and dancing in Range of the Jaguar and by Trout River Grill, Splash Ground, and unlimited Wildlife Carousel rides for younger guests. Dinosauria is included for all to adventure through; Nature Agents scavenger hunt is included, while supplies last, most animal exhibits open until 8pm, whimsical animal stilt-walkers, plus light and fire spinners. A world of bubbles will be in Play Park, including the mysterious “fobbles,” illuminated scenes like a neon garden and a starry night. Food will be available for purchase. Prices range from $20 to $30. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens / 904-7574463 / 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218 / www.jacksonvillezoo.org

Dinosauria at the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens

Thru August 13

Travel back millions of years to experience the thrill of the prehistoric age of dinosaurs. Journey along paths with full-scale, scientifically accurate animatronic dinosaurs with realistic movements and roaring sounds, including 18 of the most fascinating dinosaurs like the Triceratops and the mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex. Along the way, join forces with the team of educational scientists to unravel how dinos evolved over time, where they lived, how they behaved, and the plants they consumed – and how plants from prehistoric ages are ancestor species to those found in Florida. Admission to Dinosauria is included with Total Experience tickets. Members may purchase single Dinosauria tickets for $3, only available on-site. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens / 904757-4463 / 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218 / www.jacksonvillezoo.org

The Jacksonville Orchid Society Re-Potting Clinic • June 3, July 1, August 5, 10am to 1pm Beginners and new members are invited for a re-potting clinic. Learn by doing in a clinic intended to teach members and the public how to re-pot their own orchids. Challenge members of the Jacksonville Orchid Society with your tough orchids and questions. Please bring no more than five orchids per individual. After the clinic, join JOS members for lunch at the local Sonny’s BBQ.

Hagan Ace Hardware / 12501 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / jaxorchidsociety.org

License Free Fishing Days

June 3-4 and June 10-11

Free fishing days provide an excellent opportunity for parents who don't yet have licenses to take youth fishing or avid anglers to introduce a friend to fishing without having to purchase a license. On these days, the fishing license requirement is waived for all recreational anglers (residents and non-residents). All other rules (e.g., seasons,

bag, and size limits) apply. The saltwater waiver applies to any recreational harvest requiring a saltwater fishing license (e.g., crabbing, lobstering, scalloping, etc.) as well as fishing from shore or a boat. A snook or spiny lobster permit is not required on these days.

License-Free Saltwater Days – June 3-4

License-Free Freshwater Days – June 10-11 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission / myfwc.com

Wild Wonders at Dutton Island

June 10, 24, 11am

Bring your kids to a hands-on nature program at Dutton Island Preserve. Local educator Mike Rossi will bring a variety of small creatures for his presentation, “Scaly Sensations,” an informative and interactive live show that displays local and exotic reptiles. Children and adults are encouraged to participate in the program by holding select animals and performing small roles. Together participants will explore the interesting and colorful facts of the Reptile world. Dutton Island Preserve / 904-247-5828 / 1600 Dutton Island Road, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 / www.coab.us

Nature Detectives: Bees

June 17, 1pm and 2:30pm

The Garden Club of St. Augustine is proud to introduce Marta Magellan, author of “Bee Catastrophe.” She will share her book as attendees learn about the importance of bees. They are pollinators and are a vital part of the ecosystem. Local beekeepers will bring a live, secure hive for you to see and study. The second workshop is a repeat of the first. St. Johns County Public Library, Ponte Vedra Beach Branch / 904-827-6950 / 101 Library Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.sjcpls.org

Growing Food, Growing Community

June 17, 2pm to 3:30pm

No place to grow a traditional garden? Come join SJCPLS and horticulturist Lana Mack and learn to grow vegetables in small spaces. Learn how to utilize raised bed carts, grow lights, and grow bags. Take home some vegetable seeds you plant in peat pots. Program made possible from a NEFLIN Innovation Project Grant. Free.

St. Johns County Public Library, Southeast Branch / 904-827-6900 / 6670 US 1 South Street, St. Augustine, FL 2086 / sjcpls.org

Container Bog Garden • July 22, 6pm to 8pm

Lush Leaves hosts a Container Bog Garden workshop. Select from multiple types of carnivorous plants, make your own planting mix, and create your garden. The focus will be on Pitcher plant varieties and Sundew. All instructions and information will be provided to help you be a successful plant parent. Learn something new and take home something uniquely yours. Tickets are $50 and include all supplies and refreshments.

Lush Leaves / 904-315-7721 / 1566 Hendricks Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / lush-leaves.com

Visit

THINGS TO DO

Friends of the South Mandarin Library

Book Sale

June 1, 10am to 5pm; June 2, 10am to 5pm; June 3, 10am to 3pm

The Friends of the South Mandarin Library hosts a book sale. There will be books, CDs, DVDs, and more for every age – children, teens, and adults. The sale will be held in Community Room A&B and the Conference Room. Jacksonville Public Library, South Mandarin Branch / 904-255-2665 / 12125 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

Kidz Entrepreneurship Fair & Indoor Market

June 3, 12noon to 3pm

The 1st Annual Kidz Entrepreneur Fair comes to St. Augustine and St. Johns County. The event will be located at the historical Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center. Kid vendors ages 4-17 years old are invited to sell any product, food item, craft, art, and merchandise that is inspired and made by kids. There will be people's choice awards, live entertainment, games, and more. Free to sign up. The purpose of the event is to encourage the promotion and creativity of businesses run by kids.

Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center / 386682-0245 / 102 MLK Avenue, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.lincolnvillemuseum.org

Drop-In Chess

June 3, 10, 17, 24, 2pm to 4pm

Drop-in to the Beaches Branch of the Jacksonville Public Library anytime between 2pm and 4pm to play a game of chess. All ages and all skill levels are welcome. Free.

Jacksonville Public Library, Beaches Branch / 904-255-2665 / 600 3rd Street, Neptune Beach, FL 32266 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

Jacksonville Water Lantern Festival

June 3, 5:30pm to 9:30pm

The Water Lantern Festival brings together individuals to witness the beauty of thousands of lanterns and the lights reflecting upon the water. Gates open at 5:30pm, attendees can design their own lantern at 8pm, and the lantern launch will take place from 8:30pm to 9:30pm. Adult tickets start at $35.99, and kids’ tickets start at $12.45. Each adult ticket includes a wristband for entry into the festival area with access to food trucks, a floating lantern kit, an LED candle, a commemorative drawstring bag, a marker, playing cards, conversation cards, and lantern retrieval and water cleanup. TIAA Bank Field / 1 TIAA Bank Field Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.waterlanternfestival.com

Musical Appreciation with the Navy Band Woodwind Quintet • June 5, 2pm to 3pm

Join the Bartram Trail Branch Library and the Navy Band Woodwind Quintet for a spectacular musical performance to kick off another summer at the library. No registration required.

St. Johns County Public Library, Bartram Trail Branch / 904-827-6963 / 60 Davis Pond Blvd, St. Johns, FL 32259 / sjcpls.org

BMX National Registration Week

June 6 and 8, 6:30pm

BMX National Registration Week is June 1-15. Attend an open house and try USA BMX for no charge with a free practice and race. USA BMX is the only all-ages sport where no one sits on the bench, and everyone is always welcome. All you need to get started is your bike (many tracks even have loaner bikes available), long pants, a long sleeve shirt, and any approved bicycle helmet. Register online to participate.

June 6, 6:30pm – Jacksonville BMX

June 8, 6:30pm – Ancient City BMX

USA BMX / www.usabmx.com

Jacksonville BMX / 904-674-4792 / 1946 Ray Greene Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32218

Ancient City BMX / 904-342-9868 / 3005 Alan Nease Rd, St. Augustine, FL 32033

Beyond King Tut: The Immersive Experience

June 9 – September 3

Beyond King Tut: The Immersive Experience is a cinematic immersive exhibition that takes guests on a journey to one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time. Journey to modern-day Egypt and see wonders of the ancient world like the Temple at Karnak and the Great Sphinx. Experience ancient history come to life in a dramatic and immersive projection experience. Through nine distinct multi-sensory galleries, Beyond King Tut: The Immersive Experience unlocks the 3,300-year-old story of King Tut in an evolution of immersive experiences. Open Wednesday thru Sunday. Tickets start at $43.99 for adults 16 and up and $28.99 for children ages 5 to 15. Family four-pack tickets are available for $35.99 each. Parking is available in the parkade directly across the street from the Main Entrance. Please note that parking must be paid by card, as only cashless payments are being accepted at this time. Parking rates start at $6 per hour. NoCo Center / 800-441-0819 / 712 N Hogan Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / beyondkingtut.com

Jennifer Swanson Presents: Brain Games

June 12, 2pm to 3pm

This interactive program focuses on what makes you YOU: your brain. This program will use examples and activities from the award-winning book and TV show to help students understand the supercomputer housed inside their heads. For incoming grades 2-8. Free, but registration is required.

St. Johns County Public Library, Bartram Trail Branch / 904- 827-6960 / 60 Davis Pond Blvd, St. Johns, FL 32259 / www.sjcpls.org

Anna Moo at the Clay County Public Library

June 12, 2pm

Sing along, dance, and moove with award-winning singer/songwriter of Children's Music

– Anna Moo. Moo has six Parents Choice Gold Awards, five Grammy considerations, and three American Library Association Awards. This family entertainer engages all ages with heartfelt original music from upbeat Cajun

songs like the "Alligator Stomp" to lively songs in Spanish, Greek, and even Chinese. Families will celebrate these positive songs and stories from around the world. Come early, as space is limited. Recommended for children ages 3-11. Clay County Public Library, Fleming Island Branch / 904-278-3720 / 1895 Town Center Blvd, Fleming Island, FL 32003 / www.claycountygov.com

Squishmallow Meet Up

June 15, 5pm to 7pm

Bring your Squishmallow and friends to Chickfil-A Southside Blvd at the Avenues for arts & crafts, stickers, and raffles. Please register in advance to reserve your spot for arts & crafts and to enter the raffle for your time slot. Chick-fil-A Southside Blvd at the Avenues / 904-519-0505 / 9980 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / www.chick-fil-a.com

Wings n’ Wheels • June 17, 10am to 3pm

Wings n’ Wheels is a family-friendly show that features airplanes and cars on display at the St. Augustine Airport terminal. The “Wings” portion will showcase 20+ modern, vintage, and homebuilt aircraft statically parked at the terminal along with the planes that will be flying in the day of the event. The “Wheels” portion will showcase 200+ vehicles, including classic and modern cars, trucks, UTVs, bikes, and more. Food vendors will be on-site with food and beverages available for purchase. Show admission is free for spectators.

Saint Augustine Airport Terminal / 904-6577136 / 4900 US-1, St. Augustine, FL 32095 / stakerproductions.com

Family Fest at the Morris Center

June 24, 10am to 3pm

The Morris Center, in collaboration with the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, hosts a family event featuring free OT screenings, face painting, parent resources, food, and ice cream. The OT Screening is for ages 5-12. Registration is required for the free occupational therapy screening. Parent attendance is required at all times during the screening. The Morris Center / 904-834-2482 / 50 Executive Way, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / themorriscenter.com

The Retrorama Collectibles Show

June 25, 10am to 4pm

The Retrorama Collectibles Show returns with a retro toy show. The show is double the size of previous years and features toys, video games, comics, posters, Pop Funkos, records, DVDs, VHS, models, games, dolls, movie memorabilia, and lots of pop culture items. Admission and parking are free, but there is a special 9am early bird preview for $10.

Ramada Conference Center – Mandarin / 904880-4281 / 3130 Hartley Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.jaxretrocon.com

Jurassic Quest 2023

July 14, 12noon to 8pm; July 15, 9am to 8pm; July 16, 9am to 7pm

Jurassic Quest is America's largest and most realistic Dinosaur Event. Guests will walk through the Cretaceous period, the Jurassic Period, and The Triassic period and experience for themselves what it was like to be among living, breathing dinosaurs. Jurassic Quest is the only Dinosaur event that has true-to-life-size dinosaurs from the very small to the gigantic, skyscraping dinosaurs that can only be seen at Jurassic Quest events. Jurassic Quest has over 80 true-to-life-size dinosaurs. In collaboration with leading paleontologists, each one was painstakingly replicated in every detail. Be sure to bring socks for the kids; they will need them to play in the inflatables. All guests ages 2 and older must have a ticket. Admission starts at $22. Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center / 833-486-3466 / 1000 Water St, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.jurassicquest.com

2023 Annual HERI BookBuster

July 15, 9am to 12noon

Local homeschool group, H.E.R.I., hosts its 2023 BookBuster event. There will be tables with pre-owned homeschool books, curriculum for pre-school through 12th grade, fiction/ non-fiction books, games, puzzles, computer games, CDs, DVDs, audiobooks, workbooks, themed unit studies, adult books, manipulatives, and more for sale. Non-HERI members can enter at 9am; members enter at 8:30am. Entry fee is $2 per adult for HERI members and $3 for non-members. Cash only will be accepted at the door for the entry fee. Due to the number of people that attend this event, for safety reasons, wheeled carts and/or strollers will not be permitted on the sales floor. Open to the public, not just homeschool families. Cash, debit, and credit are acceptable forms of payment for items purchased.

Hillcrest Baptist Church / 7673 Collins Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32244 / herijax.com

KidX Fall Sports Mania & Expo

July 15, 11am to 1pm

The Orange Park Mall welcomes families who are considering signing up kids for fall sports. Join staff to meet some of these organizations in person during the Sports Mania & Expo. KidX Club members can create their own sportsthemed photo frame and try out a few new activities and games. Plus, the first 100 kids to sign in will each receive their own sports bottle. Event will be held inside the mall near JCPenney and Dick's Sporting Goods. Orange Park Mall / 904-269-2422 / 1910 Wells Rd, Orange Park, FL 32073 / orangeparkmall.com

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dates, times and locations are accurate at time of publication; events and activities listed in this guide are subject to change without notice. Visit Jax4Kids. com for updated information and more events!