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CONTENTS CONTENTS
January/February 2020
VOLUME 18 NUMBER 1
EXCUSES
14
20
12 24
9
Publisher's Page
10
Contributor's Page
12
Moving Into 2020
Excuses, Excuses
14
Meet our amazing editors! Don't look back.
You can achieve those goals!
34
28 Cupid's Arrow A full circle Valentine journey. 32 Valentine Sweets Yummies to make and share. 34 College on the Horizon Finding the right fit. 40 Making a Difference ECMA Music Festival
16 Intentional Living Rock the Road Your journey into 2020 & beyond. 42 Events 20 Five Ways to Empower Kids Fun on the Coast! Building self esteem. 24 Playful Valentines Fun for the whole family!
On the Cover: Ashley Mc Faden visiting from Arizona enjoying a lovely cool winter beach day. Tell them you saw it in ON THE COAST Magazine • 7
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Wow! Another year under our belts! Mine (my belt), has grown a bit larger, if I am being honest. Yikes! Yep, I am one of the many who will be making a New Year’s resolution to get in shape, lose those extra pounds and, look feel good in 2020!
I did enjoy 2019, and it ended on a high note with my Aunt Mary and cousin Peter visiting from England. You might recall I wrote about their upcoming visit on my Nov/Dec Publisher’s Page. My aunt is 90 years old and my mom, 93. We honestly thought my mom would not be here much longer, but she has really turned around health-wise, and I see a bright future with her for years to come. It was so good seeing them reliving their youth and young 20s again. I hadn’t seen my cousin is decades, and it was great catching up. They enjoyed daily walks on the beach at sunrise and our Southern hospitality.
2020, what a great number. I was at Mama Clemenzas earlier today, and she shared with us her ideas on the new year. She explained that 20/20 is perfect vision, that it is perfection in body, soul, mind….all things. I really liked that.
You’ll find great editorial pieces this issue to start 2020 off right. Barbara Britt, Mary Jo Rapini, and Paul Hunter will help walk you through being a better you for your family and yourself. You’ll be sure to smile and reminisce about your childhood as Laura Lucy walks us through her life dealing with Valentine’s Day. You’ll learn how to teach your children to be kind to others, and we think you’ll enjoy all our Valentine articles about love, including our recipes and crafts.
Earlier in church that same morning, I listened to my pastor talk about moving into tasks whole-heartedly; that if we pursue our passions and goals for this year with complete intentionality, we can gain a better reward than if we move into the year halfheartedly. That means, instead of saying “Oh, that gym - I just need to sleep in this morning” or “I can’t go without sugar in my coffee anymore - just a little won’t hurt”, we say “I CAN and WILL do this, and my reward will be fulfilling!” Easier said than done, but we can turn resolutions into habits with dedication and discipline. If 2020 is the year for perfection, why don’t we all try a bit harder. Let’s focus on our goals and make 2020 the perfect year!
I wish you a glorious 2020 this year. Let’s work hard so we can be rewarded FULLY. We can do this! I for one am heading to Integrity Weight Loss Center to see Dr. Sarah Leatherman to help me get healthy and into shape. I’ve put it off for almost a full year and I’m ready….aren’t you? Happy New Year to you, and I wish you inspiration and strength as you consider what would make 2020 your perfect year.
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CONTRIBUTORS Skylar Babin Throughout her life, Skylar Capri has always been captivated by the wonder of God's creation along the Emerald Coast. As the current Miss Okaloosa as well as the Distinguished Young Woman of Okaloosa for 2017-2018, Skylar has a love for inspiring others and takes that role seriously. You can follow her dream pursuits on her Instagram @skylarcaprimusic and YouTube (Skylar Capri) as she works diligently on her music and writing career.
Mary Jo Rapini Mary Jo is on Fox Houston 26 Mondays and Thursdays with a segment on healthy relationships and “Ask Mary Jo.” She has been a contributor for CNN’s Prime News and has been on CBS up to the Minute, Fox National Morning News, Montel, Steve Harvey, the Today Show and Dateline. Mary Jo was also featured in TLC’s Big Medicine (two seasons) and Discovery Health Channel. She is also a contributor to Cosmopolitan Magazine, Women’s Health First, Seventeen Magazine, Redbook, and Self Magazine as needed. She lives in Houston but enjoys her frequent visits to our beautiful Emerald Coast.
Denise Gates Denise Gates has a BA in Journalism and is a freelance writer and editor. She has spent the last 25+ years traveling with her military husband and raising two boys. Twice they lived in Destin and now that her husband has retired and with both boys at Florida colleges, they are back for good.
Laura Lucy Laura Lucy works remotely as the grants and marketing manager for Harbor House of Central Florida, owns Beachside Certifications, a CPR and first aid training company, and volunteers at her daughter’s school, her church, and anywhere else that will have her. When she's not working, you can find Laura and her husband Patrick trying to wrangle their crazy redhead, Vivi, who also happens to be the reigning Little Miss Okaloosa County.
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Christa Melnyk Hines Christa Melnyk Hines and her beloved Valentine of 22 years share their hearts and home with two active children, a sweet rescue mutt and a cricket-lovin' lizard. Christa is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World. She loves visiting her relatives in Gulf Breeze with her family. A trip to Navarre Beach and to the Pensacola Air Museum are always on her list of things to do. She's looking forward to a return in June.
Paul Hunter Paul Hunter, B.S., C.S.C.S, lives On the Coast with his wife and three teenagers infusing science with his playful style yielding astonishing results at Grayton Beach Fitness, voted Best Place to Work Out on 30-A.
Barbara Britt Barbara Britt is a dedicated member of her community in Fort Walton Beach, Florida and has a passion for making a difference in the lives of others. She developed the largest leadership program in the country for high school students and devoted 16 years to working directly with the program’s participants. She is now using her expertise in the corporate world. As a member of John C. Maxwell’s international speaking, training and coaching team, she conducts leadership, personal and professional development training for a variety of organizations. Barbara is also a certified trainer with Robert Rohm Personality Insights. She has recently developed a Speakers Club that can be utilized in companies from top management to the entire team. In addition to working with individual and corporate clients, Barbara facilitates training through the Northwest Florida State College Costa Leadership Institute. She has developed Empowerment programs to enable women and men to achieve their best selves using Mastermind groups, as well as lunch and learn workshops.
Janeen Lewis Janeen Lewis is a freelance journalist, teacher and mom to Andrew and Gracie. Her favorite place to vacation is Destin, and she and her family visit there often.
PUBLISHER/EDITOR NANCY BABIN PHOTO EDITOR / CREATIVE DIRECTOR SHANE BABIN GRAPHIC DESIGN TRINITY GRAPHICS AND DESIGNS
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MOVE FORWARD NEW YEAR
by
INTO THE
LETTING GO of your past
F
or many, this year is an especially daunting one to face. The past year was filled with politics, stress, toxic rhetoric, and an uncanny sense of feeling divided as a country. Perhaps you’re feeling drained or fearful of the year ahead. You may be grieving the loss of a friend or family member and letting go of them makes your feel more vulnerable and insecure. As tempting as it is, you cannot hang on to the old year. Life goes on, relationships change, careers move forward, and children grow up. You, too, must continue to learn new things, take on new challenges, and grow into the person you’re meant to become. In order to do that, you have to remember the past, enjoy the present, and move forward into the future. If you’re digging in your heels and holding on to past grudges and hurts, these suggestions may help you let go and move forward: 1. Take responsibility and accept your situation. There are many reasons people hang on to old hurts and painful memories. For example, it may make them feel in the right or gain them attention. Staying stuck in a joyless rut and hoping it punishes someone else only hurts you more. continued on page 46
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by Mary Jo Rapini, LPC
What EXCUSES Are You Looking For? by Paul Hunter
A
s we begin the New Year, we often look within ourselves for areas to improve and areas to build on, counting our successes and weighing them against our mistakes. But sometimes these areas are difficult to assess. In psychology, a scotoma is “a mental blind spot or inability to understand or perceive certain matters.” I think we all suffer from this. We have areas of our lives, habits, if you will, that are disabling us from being and achieving our best. Quite often it is the excuses we settle for that handicap us. After all, if you are looking for an excuse, any one will do. When it comes to working out, here are some of the more common excuses people use: “I don't have the time.” Treat your exercise time as you would any other appointment. Put it on your schedule and adhere to it. This simple step with your exercise time can apply to other areas as well and allow you to fit in the important things in lieu of always responding to the less important urgent things. “It’s too early.” Often the problem isn't that it is too early; it’s that you're going to bed too late out of habit. Think about changing your habits to going to bed earlier, affording yourself the time to wake up earlier and get some exercise in before you begin your day. In my experience and observation, those who have a morning training time are more likely to adhere to their program, thus yielding better results. You'll feel better about yourself and your day because you began with something good for you. “It’s too late.” Some people like the evening workouts, while others are left wired and staring at the ceiling most of the night as a result. Rather than doing a high-intensity workout, do a low- to moderate-intensity session. Perform at a lower percentage of your max, whether it be treadmill, bike, swim, or even resistance training. Going lighter will allow you to do something rather than skip your probably much-needed training session.
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“I can do it tomorrow.” No, you can’t. You can do tomorrow’s session tomorrow. You can't do today’s session tomorrow. You're tricking and confusing yourself by not being honest with yourself and saying, “I am skipping today’s workout.” “I just ate” or “I need to eat.” Planning can alleviate this. Giving yourself a two- to three-hour window to eat beforehand can prepare you for your training session. If you just ate, then go to your workout and go with less intensity. This may be an opportunity to work on your areas that need the most improvement: flexibility, balance, agility. Something. Don’t skip. continued on page 46
What makes you...
you! by Barbara Britt
I
was drawn to this sentence from The Minds Journal: “Your diet is not only what you eat. It is what you watch, what you listen to, what you read, the people you hang around…be mindful of the things you put into your body emotionally, spiritually and physically.” If we think of our mind, body, and soul as our most valuable possession, then we must consider all the outside things we subject it to. You must be mindful of the people at home, work, church, and in your community, constantly building and maintaining a strong foundation of leadership while upholding your values. In life you will be subjected to negative, hurtful people and concepts; however, you do not need to open yourself up to their bombardment of negative or unhealthy influence just because of your daily involvement with them. Let’s go into January 2020 with the mindset of adding value to everyone you meet. Keep your circle of influence strong, resilient, and close so that you have someone to share
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your goals and passion with. Your circle of influence must be developed first by building in your values, then adding people that love you unconditionally and hold you accountable. Do they find joy with your accomplishments even though they themselves receive nothing but the joy of watching you or others succeed? Now look inward in order to stay in your own circle; you must walk your talk. You must stay intentional with everything you say and do. Are you loving them unconditionally, finding joy in their accomplishments, and can you hold each other accountable? Does your circle include a mentor as well as a mentee?
“Intentional living is the art of making our own choices before others' choices make us.” Richie Norton continued on page 18
WHAT MAKES YOU... YOU! continued from page 16 The ability to make choices is what gives us ownership of our lives, and we always have a choice. Sometimes that choice is to do nothing at all, allowing things to happen to us, while other times we step over the threshold of the unknown and make things happen. Remember, every day we get to make the choice of how we want to react to hat life empowers us with. Be intentional about the people you share your journey with. Just as importantly, you need to make sure you’re equally there for the people in your circle and the surrounding areas. By protecting your Circle of Influence, watching and participating in it with care, you will be able to see the growth in everyone. However, your circle is like a garden - left untended, it will go to weeds.
I want to live my life by this quote, holding myself to a higher standard of thought:
“Either I will find a way, or I will create a way, but I will not create an excuse.” Philip Sidney
Excuses are a deathtrap. They keep us from working on ourselves and helping others. While building your circle and maintaining it, you must make sure that you and the people in it nourish it properly. In my personal circle, we are using the QBQ (Question Behind the Question) method of asking questions and holding ourselves and each other accountable. To remain mindful, action-focused and accountable, we ask ourselves these three questions containing “I”: This way, we take responsibility and don’t fall to the blame game. 1. What am I going to do to right now to accomplish this? 2. How am I going to accomplish this? 3. What action steps am I willing to take? Only then can we effectively tend to our diet of emotional, spiritual, and physical, well being. Take a chance; life holds so much promise for all of us. How will you be dieting? Please email barbarajbritt@gmail.com or call (850) 621-7709 if you are interested in innervating your Personal & Professional Development. 18 • Tell them you saw it in ON THE COAST Magazine
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FAMILY FEATURES
5 ways to
EMPOWER KIDS
to END BULLYING
F
rom the classroom to the internet, bullying can lead to children developing a poor self-image or lead to bullying others. In fact, members of Generation Z believe bullying is the biggest issue facing their generation, according to new data.
Educate and equip. Parents should educate their children about why bullying is never OK, equip them with the knowledge they’ll need to recognize it and encourage them to report and safely respond to all forms of bullying they observe.
A survey of American youth ages 6-17, commissioned by the Boy Scouts of America, the nation’s foremost youth program of character development and values-based leadership training, found bullying ranked as the top concern for young people in their own communities, across the country and on a global scale. At the same time, 84% of those surveyed said they want to be a part of the solution.
Use the buddy system. In Scouting, the buddy system pairs kids together to help ensure the well-being of one another. This approach is used for practical and safety reasons that can also be applied to everyday life. A pair or group of kids are less likely to get bullied, and buddies can be supportive by being an upstander.
Consider these ideas to help your kids learn how to overcome, avoid and break down the cycle of bullying: Promote more time unplugged and outdoors. It is important for parents to promote healthy, faceto-face social interactions. Outdoor activities allow children to work together, solve problems and bond in a way that typically can’t be achieved through a screen. They also give children a break from the cyber-world, where bullying is often prevalent. Encourage kindness. Ninetyseven percent of Gen Z members surveyed said being kind is important. Encourage kids to act on that feeling and remind them that it doesn’t take any extra energy to be kind. Serve as a role model by making kindness a foundation in your family, just as the Boy Scouts of America have done. The Scout Law lists being kind as one of 12 guiding characteristics. 20 • Tell them you saw it in ON THE COAST Magazine
continued on page 22
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END BULLYING continued from page 20
IMPROVING COMMUNITIES Creating a better community may be a collaborative goal, but as survey data from the Boy Scouts of America shows, the solutions lie much closer to home and can be inspired by the acts of individuals: • 97% of those surveyed said being kind to others is important. • 84% said they want to be a part of solving community issues in the future. • 79% said improving their community is important. • 50% said the reason they focus on some of these issues because their parents are passionate about them.
Explore differences. As a family, look for ways to get involved in activities that include families from different backgrounds and cultures. Introducing kids to ideas and lifestyles different from their own can be an enlightening experience, and that knowledge can help break down some of the barriers that contribute to bullying, such as fear and misunderstanding. Learn more about ways Generation Z and its supporters can help put an end to bullying at Scouting.org.
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• Bullying was a top concern among respondents, with 86% of respondents saying that not being bullied is a daily priority and 30% saying that out of 20-plus societal issues, bullying is the problem they most want solved globally. • Other top concerns respondents want to help solve are hunger (28%) and care for elders (27%) at the local level; animal rights (28%) and recycling (28%) at the national level; and poverty (28%) and human rights (26%) at the global level.
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10 by Christa Melnyk Hines 24 • Tell them you saw it in ON THE COAST Magazine
Ways to Say
"I Love You!" A Valentine's Day Family Playbook
V
alentine's Day isn't just for couples in the heady throes of young love. Deliver sweet somethings to every important person in your life. Here's the plan for a perfectly playful V-Day for the whole family.
Create a Sweet Tweets jar.
Decorate a mason jar for your child. On slips of paper, write adjectives or short sentences in 280 characters or less that describe traits you most appreciate, admire and love about him or her.
Hunt for Cupid's treasure. Challenge your
kids to a scavenger hunt. Give them clues on a trail of paper hearts or cupid cut-outs. One clue leads to the next until they find a Valentine's Day surprise. Check online for scavenger hunt clue ideas.
"Attack" them with hearts.
On each of the thirteen days leading up to Valentine's Day, mom of four, Alexis Sanchez posts a heart-shaped note on her kids' doors each night after they go to bed. By Valentine's Day, their doors are covered. "Usually it's just characteristics I see in them or ways that they're kind to others. They really love this, and I even found my eight year old kept all his hearts from last year in a special drawer so that's pretty awesome," Sanchez says, whose other children are 10, 6 and 1.
Send a singing telegram. Video your preschooler
singing a ditty like: "I made this little valentine; Of red, white and blue; I made this little valentine; Especially for you!" (point at the
camera). Email the file to grandparents or another relative your youngster is crazy about.
Customize cards for classmates.
Bypass the usual cartoon paper postcards and publish simple photo cards with a themed border. Last year, Sanchez attached a small bottle of bubbles to her daughter's cards, which read "Friend, you blow me away!"
Play the Queen of Hearts. Ace V-Day by
sending love notes in a pack of red playing cards for your beloved. Punch holes in the corner of each card. On paper squares, write down 52 reasons why you love or appreciate him. Paste each sentiment in the middle of a playing card. Title the deck "I love you because..." and paste it on the top card. Attach the cards with a c-clip.
Treat them to a hearty breakfast.
Surprise your kids with heart-shaped cinnamon rolls. Instead of rolling your cinnamon roll dough from one side to the other, roll it on both sides so that each side meets in the middle forming a heart shape. Slice and bake. Serve juice out of dollar store champagne flutes. Make a fruit salad. Cut fruits like apples, strawberries, banana and watermelon using a heart-shaped cookie cutter.
Toy with chemistry.
Put candy conversation hearts to the test. Gather vinegar, salt water, tap water and bleach (with adult guidance). Place a candy heart in four bowls. Ask your child to continued on page 26
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10 WAYS TO SAY "I LOVE YOU" continued from page 25
hypothesize about what will happen when each liquid is dropped over the candy. Using an eye dropper, test her theory. How does the candy react to different liquids? Did your young chemist's predictions prove true?
DIY Heart-Shaped Bird Seed Treats
Get those hearts pumping.
Using a poster board, make a grid of nine different exercises (sit-ups, somersaults, jumping jacks, pushups, etc). Players take turns tossing a beanbag (or other item) onto the grid. Then they rolling the dice to see how many times they have to do the exercise that their beanbag landed on. For more ideas, check out 12345 Fit-Tastic! on Pinterest, a healthy lifestyles initiative for families.
Rev up date night.
In the whirlwind of parenting, life as a couple can get routine. Plan an outing with your sweetheart that's playful and gets you out of your dinner-and-a-movie rut. For example, lift off in a hot air balloon ride; go dancing; take a couples cooking class; paint together at a drop-in paint-and-sip studio; or attend a concert or live theater production.
DIY Snow Globe
Snow them over with hearts. Make a snow globe for your special someone out of a 16 oz mason jar. Hot glue a small animal figurine and/or a miniature bottle brush tree to the inside of the lid. Put red and silver glitter and foil heart confetti inside the jar. Fill the jar with water. Put hot glue around the inside of the lid and screw it on tight. Wrap a ribbon around the bottom of the jar. Attach a tag with a love note that says, "There's snow one like you."
DID YOU KNOW... • In 2019, consumers spent a record-breaking $20.7 billion on Valentine's Day cards, flowers and gifts. • Younger consumers between the ages of 18 and 34 tend to want to create memories rather than give gifts. Up to 45% will give the gift of experiences like dance classes or concert tickets. • Must love pets! Consumers spent $886 million on Valentine's gifts for their pets in 2019. Source: National Retail Federation
DID YOU KNOW... • Valentine's Day dates back to the ancient Roman fertility festival called Lupercalia • The first written valentines were sent in the 15th century • Today, an estimated 114 million V-Day cards are exchanged annually • As many as six million couples get engaged on Valentine's Day each year Sources: history.com; hallmark.com 26 • Tell them you saw it in ON THE COAST Magazine
Ingredients/Materials 1 c. wild bird seed 1/3 c. oatmeal 1/8 c. peanut butter 2 tbsp. corn syrup 2 envelopes gelatin 1/2 c. water Wax paper Heart-shaped cookie cutter Non-stick cooking spray Natural twine or string
1.) Line a piece of wax paper onto a cookie sheet. 2.) Mix bird seed, oatmeal, peanut butter and corn syrup into a large bowl. 3.) Pour two packets of gelatin into a 1/2 c. boiling water. Stir until the gelatin is dissolved. Stir into bird seed mix. (Add more bird seed if the mix seems too watery.) 4.) Spray cooking spray around inside of cookie cutter. 5.) Place the cookie cutter onto the wax paper. Pack the bird seed mixture into the cookie cutter about halfway. 6.) Tie string into a loop and place the knotted end into the cookie cutter. Cover it with more of the bird seed mixture. Press the mixture down with your hand or a spoon. 7.) Carefully lift the cookie cutter and repeat until the bird seed mixture is used up. 8.) Refrigerate the decorations overnight. 9.) Hang your treat in a tree for your feathered friends.
Note: Store extra bird treats in a dry, cool place to avoid mold.
Share the Love
by Laura Lucy
W
hen you’re a kid, Valentine’s Day isn’t about the romance. Like most other holidays and special occasions, it’s about candy and getting out of as much schoolwork as possible that day. My earliest memories of Valentine’s Day date back to elementary school. Most days I didn’t feel particularly loved by my classmates. Even though I knew they had to bring a card for everyone, it still gave me a warm feeling to go home after school on February 14, open up the shoebox I had decorated with pink and red hearts, and read through all the Valentines. Valentine’s Day in middle school brought a certain amount of trepidation. We no longer exchanged cards in class. Nobody’s mom made them include everyone. That meant only the lucky few who were “in a relationship” would be giving and receiving cards and gifts. I had the misfortune of going through an extended awkward phase from sixth to eighth grade, so no stuffed animals, roses, or boxes of chocolates for me. Cupid’s arrow missed me the first few years of high school, too. During my senior year, I finally had a boyfriend on Valentine’s Day. We had been together a whole month by the time this high holiday rolled around, and I was expecting something spectacular. He gave me a white teddy bear holding a heart. I thought it was the best present ever. Did I forget to mention he spritzed it with his cologne? What girl could resist the intoxicating scent of Drakkar Noir? There’s a good chance I still have the bear in a storage bin at my parents’ house, but the boyfriend didn’t stick around for a second Valentine’s Day.
28 • Tell them you saw it in ON THE COAST Magazine
continued on page 30
SHARE THE LOVE continued from page 28
Through college and my twenties, I became a much stronger, more independent woman who viewed Valentine’s Day as a manufactured holiday designed to sell cards, flowers, candies, and jewelry. But if I’m being completely honest, I love chocolate. Put it in a heart-shaped box and gift it to me, and I will love you forever. I didn’t marry until I was well into my thirties. Like most men, my husband is solidly in the manufactured holiday camp when it comes to his views on V-Day. However, he is wise enough to realize I’m happier when I get a little romantic gesture. I don’t require expensive jewelry or over-the-top antics. Give me that red box of chocolates, and I’m yours! As mom to a second grader, I’ve now come full circle on my Valentine’s Day journey. We’re back to cards for everyone and cutting out paper hearts. We’re not talking about romance, but there is plenty of love to go around. Here are a few ways our family will be spreading the love this year:
Tell Them Why You Love Them: Beginning on February 1 and going
through Valentine’s Day, we put a paper heart on Vivi’s bedroom door with something we love about her. It can be funny, sweet, or serious. We started this tradition last year, and my daughter bounded out of bed every morning to see what Mommy and Daddy had to say. We had everything from “We love how kind you are to your friends.” to “We love that you’re not afraid of bugs.” I think I’ll add some hearts for my husband this year. Just as he recognizes the importance of chocolate to me, I need to keep in mind that he loves words of affirmation. He’ll laugh at me decorating paper hearts for him, but I know he’ll love it too.
Share the Love: When making Valentines for your child’s class, pick up a few extra and put them in the car or your purse. As you go about your day, hand them out to anyone who might need a little love – the cashier at Publix, the barista at Starbucks, coworkers, a police officer, or stranger on the street. You’ll see their faces light up, and your kids will love spreading joy to everyone they encounter. Reach Out: Think of someone who has been important in your life that doesn’t have a Valentine this year. Maybe you have a family member who lost a spouse over the last year or a friend who recently had a bad breakup. Give them a call and pass the phone around or put them on speaker so the whole family can let them know they are loved and remembered on this day.
Take a Timeout: Justin Bieber was being a little snarky when he sang “you can go and love yourself,” but it’s actually great advice. Take five to ten minutes out of your day to show yourself some love. Pray, meditate, look in the mirror and say, “I love you!” Fill yourself with love so you can pour it out on others. Whether you are the type to buy out Hallmark or the type who wants to shoot Cupid in the rear with his own arrow, I hope you have a lovely day. If you don’t have a sweetheart, grab your own box of chocolates and you’ll feel the love of caffeine, serotonin, and tryptophan all in one.
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FAMILY FEATURES
V
alentine’s Day naturally brings thoughts of hearts, flowers, sweetness and love. Because it also occurs during American Heart Month, it’s a perfect opportunity to start taking care of your own heart and the hearts of loved ones.
Sweet, Luscious Snacks for Loved Ones
This year, it can be easy to share in the fun of Valentine’s Day by serving those you love with sweet, seasonal treats. For example, these Frosted Watermelon Cutouts make for ideal snacks for children and adults alike whether it’s an after-school treat or a sweet dessert with just three ingredients, heartshaped cookie cutters and minimal time spent in the kitchen. If you’re really looking to impress that special someone, this Watermelon and Chocolate Dessert Board calls for creativity and plenty of tasty morsels like berries, cashews, almonds and dark chocolate. Without any baking or cooking required, simply spread out the ingredients for a platter that’s just as visually appealing as it is appetizing. Both recipes include the benefits of watermelon, which boasts plenty of vitamin C to boost the immune system’s defenses as a cholesterol-free, fat-free and sodium-free food. Plus, watermelon draws its red color from the powerful antioxidant lycopene (12.7 mg per serving), which may help protect cells from damage, and the healthy treat is American Heart Association Heart-Check Certified with just 80 calories per serving, making it the perfect centerpiece for Valentine’s Day recipes. Find more Valentine’s Day inspiration and recipes at watermelon.org. If you are looking for a Frozen themed Valentine's treat, this treat is for you! Save time on family desserts with make-ahead recipes like these Kristoff Ice Box Cupcakes. By using kid-friendly treats that add nutrition to appealing flavor you can solve busy evenings just be reaching into the fridge. This and other family-friendly recipes are part of Dole's healthyliving alliance with Disney's Frozen 2. For details, visit dole.com/Disney. continued on page 41
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Tell them you saw it in ON THE COAST Magazine • 33
by Janeen Lewis
T
he high school road to college may seem like four of the most challenging years families face. There are deadlines, tough financial choices and parents and children don't always agree on colleges. If that isn't stressful enough, every year there are tasks that high school students should be checking off their to-do list. How do parents help their high school students navigate all the details and decisions they must make during their countdown to college? Here is some advice from the pros -- a parent who's been through the process and a college admissions counselor.
"My children started taking high school classes in eighth grade," Fain says. "A GPA is harder to bring up in junior and senior year, so our goal their eighth and ninth grade years was to keep their GPA high." The freshman year is also important for getting on a challenging track of classes. "Course choice is important," Clark says. "Math in particular is something students need to pay attention to."
STARTING THE CONVERSATION It all starts with a conversation between parent and child. But often the question that starts the conversation is the wrong one, according to Rick Clark, an undergraduate admissions counselor. "Parents ask 'Where do you want to go to college?' "Clark says. The biggest question that parents don't ask or lose sight of is 'Why do you want to go to college?' " That why is important, and should be followed up with questions like "What do you hope to get out of this? What do you want to study? What do you want to do long-term?" says Clark. FRESHMAN YEAR: THE IMPORTANCE OF ACADEMICS Rachael Fain, a mom of three, stresses the importance of the GPA during freshman year. Fain's daughter, Hannah, graduated from college in 2017. Fain also has a son, Matthew, who is a junior in college. 34 • Tell them you saw it in ON THE COAST Magazine
Taking challenging classes in high school helped Fain's son Matthew make his college decision. He decided to pursue his degree at the University where he took dual credit courses when he was in high school. continued on page 36
ARE YOU LOOKING TO Build your confidence? Grow as a leader? Improve your communication & public speaking skills?
Visit a Toastmasters club – it will change your life. Visiting a club is the first step in achieving these goals. There are 14 clubs in the Florida Panhandle. Find the nearest club at www.toastmasters.org/Find-aClub. Questions, contact Lou Cumming at louis.s.cumming@gmail.com
Tell them you saw it in ON THE COAST Magazine • 35
COUNTDOWN TO COLLEGE continued from page 34
SOPHOMORE YEAR: GETTING TO KNOW YOU Tenth grade is a good year for self-reflection. Students can take personality tests and the PSAT to figure out their strengths and weaknesses. They can also start thinking about the kind and size of school they want to attend.
really important," Fain said. "At the other one, they didn’t' matter as much."
Understanding what they are good at will help high school students be realistic about the school that is the best fit for them.
"Most students that apply have good test scores, good grades and good courses. Then the review committee asks 'Is this kid a good fit for us?'"
JUNIOR YEAR: BALANCING GRADES AND ACTIVITIES Grades are crucial during the junior year. Junior year also involves a more challenging track of classes and leadership roles in clubs and activities. It's hard to do it all, so how important are the extracurricular activities? It depends on the student and the college. "At one of my children's colleges, extracurricular activities were
Clark says one out of every four students who apply to the school where he works are accepted.
Clark says they look for students who are innovative or who are entrepreneurs, and they ask "How does this student use their time?" "If they are a good student who goes home and plays video games, what will they contribute to the school?" Clark says. But it stands out if students are responsible, if they work a job or if they make an impact some way. SENIOR YEAR: FIND YOUR FIT Clark says the most important thing about making a college decision is finding a good fit. "Fit doesn't really mean can the student do the work, but are they aligned well to the school." For example, Clark says two universities can look the same on paper. A student will apply to each with the same grades and same test scores and get accepted to one and not the other. "That is what fit is," Clark says. "How a student fits with a school, not just from an academic standpoint." If you and your child do not agree on the same school, Clark says how you approach the topic may resolve a lot of conflict over the situation. continued on page 38
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Make every bath better. Enjoy plenty of hot water when you upgrade from gas plus get a FREE electric water heater! Find out more at MyGulfPower.com or call 877-655-4001.
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COUNTDOWN TO COLLEGE continued from page 36
"Continue to tell your kids you love them, and that no matter where they go to college, it will be great." The good news is that there are many schools across the country and probably more than one of them will match your student's personality and academic standing. "If you or your child feels overwhelmed, take a deep breath and remember there is a school for every student," says Fain. Janeen Lewis is a writer, teacher and mom to Andrew and Gracie. She has been published in several parenting publications across the country.
COUNTDOWN TO COLLEGE CHECKLIST • •
A Timeline That Will Take You Places Preparing for college can be overwhelming for high school students and their parents because of the many steps it takes to get an acceptance letter. But breaking the college to-do list into manageable steps for each year of high school makes the process less stressful and teaches students responsibility, the very thing they will need for what they want to achieve -- a college education. Follow this step-by-step guide for a smoother countdown to college.
FRESHMAN YEAR • Talk to your parents and guidance counselor at the beginning of the year to set goals. • Take the most challenging courses available to you. • Make good grades. • Try a variety of activities. • Take advantage of opportunities to visit college campuses when you travel. SOPHOMORE YEAR • Visit college and career fairs. • Build your resume. Make a list of awards, accomplishments, and activities. • Take the PSAT for practice (you can take it your sophomore and junior year, but it won't count until you are a junior). • Start studying for the ACT and SAT. There are many test prep guides available online and in book form. • Assess your strengths and weaknesses and take a personality inventory. • Research possible careers. • During the summer begin researching colleges that might be a good fit. JUNIOR YEAR • Take the PSAT. • Accept leadership roles in the activities that suit you best. • Narrow your list of possible careers. • Narrow your list of possible colleges. • Take the ACT and SAT. • During the summer volunteer or find an internship or job related to your future career. • Write a college entrance essay draft. Have it critiqued by a guidance counselor or teacher. SENIOR YEAR • Narrow your college search to six to eight schools. • Post all important deadline dates on a wall calendar. • Retake the ACT or SAT if needed. • Polish your resume. • Ask for teacher recommendations. • Visit the colleges you are applying to. • Send out all your college applications. • After you receive your acceptance letters, compare scholarship and financial aid packages and make your final decision. • Notify all the schools you were accepted to of your decision. • Celebrate the beginning of a new timeline at college!
ECMA MUSIC FESTIVAL World-renowned classical pianist Alon Goldstein loves to play for audiences, frequently school children, far from the famous stages he normally graces. Goldstein, founder and artistic director of the Emerald Coast Music Alliance (ECMA), describes these moments as transformative and life-changing. It is these moments that inspired him to bring “Carnegie Hall,” free of charge, to children and adults who normally would not have access to such an experience. For the past three years, Goldstein, together with members of the ECMA, has brought distinguished musicians to perform as various venues throughout Northwest Florida. In 2017, Goldstein and other distinguished musicians performed at five venues serving youth and adults over the course of one week. The following year, the program expanded to a piano and string quartet which performed at 15 locations. Last year, Goldstein and the ECMA brought the Grammy-nominated cellist Amit Peled and the Peabody Cello Gang, a group of gifted musical students from the Peabody Institute in Baltimore, to perform 25 times at 17 different locations. The ECMA Festival, scheduled from Jan. 12-18, 2020, will highlight two Concert Artist Guild International Competition winners: JiJi, a Korean-born classical guitarist who has performed in Carnegie Hall and New York’s Lincoln Center; and 2018 CAG winner percussionist Mitya Nilov. The Festival program will also feature Goldstein, four other pianists and a brass quintet. With twelve musicians, this year’s program is expected to include over 30 concerts at schools, nursing homes and other facilities throughout Northwest Florida as well as two free concerts in the Spirit Theater at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center on Jan. 14 and 16 at 7:30 p.m. For more information about ECMA and the January 2020 Festival, please visit them at http://www.emeraldcoastmusic.org or call (850) 897-1505.
ROCK THE ROAD 5K / 10K Join us for the 8th Annual Rock the Road 5K Run/Walk and 10K Run on Saturday, February 8th, 2020! Hosted at Pompano Joes along the beautiful Scenic Hwy 98, the race benefits the Junior League Emerald Coast's Child Clothing Project. Dress as your favorite Rock 'N' Roll icon or create a team with a Rock 'N' Roll theme! Free beer at the after-party (Bring ID).The Race and Pompano Joes are stroller friendly. (Please, no pets!) Early bird pricing of $38 for the 5K and $45 for the 10K until January 5th. Commemorative race t-shirts are guaranteed for the first 300 registrants. We highly encourage you to pick up your packet at Pompano Joe's Friday night before the race from 4:30 to 7:30 PM. Registration will be open the morning of the race at 7:30 AM. Why choose this race? Not only is this race along the beautiful beaches of Destin, Florida, but all proceeds go towards the JLEC to help support the Child Clothing Project which supplies clothing to over 400 children from Walton and Okaloosa county elementary schools each year.
On the Coast Magazine is a proud media sponsor of local charitable events. For sponsorship information, e-mail OTC@OntheCoastMag.com
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FAMILY FEATURES continued from page 32
Watermelon and Chocolate Dessert Board Servings: 6-8
1 seedless watermelon, cut into 1/2-3/4-inch thick slices 4 brownie bites 1 cup frosting (any flavor)
1/2 medium seedless watermelon, cut into wedges and cubes 1 cup fresh raspberries 1 cup fresh red cherries 1 cup strawberries, trimmed and halved 1/4 cup dried cranberries 1/3 cup roasted, salted cashews 1 cup chocolate covered almonds 1 bar dark chocolate, broken into squares 1 cup coconut chips mint leaves, for garnish
Using heart-shaped cookie cutters, cut shapes out of watermelon slices or simply use cut watermelon wedges, if desired. Top heart shapes with brownie bites and add frosting as desired.
On serving board, arrange watermelon in center and surround with raspberries, cherries, strawberries, cranberries, cashews, almonds, chocolate and coconut chips. Scatter mint leaves around board for garnish.
Frosted Watermelon Cutouts
Kristoff Ice Box Cupcakes Yields 12
3 ripe DOLEÂŽ Bananas 1 container (8 ounces) fat free whipped topping, thawed if necessary 7 low fat honey graham crackers, coarsely crushed 1 pound DOLEÂŽ Strawberries, hulled and quartered Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners. Mash bananas in a large bowl; fold in whipped topping. Fill muffin cups with half each of the graham cracker pieces, banana mixture and strawberries; repeat layers with remaining ingredients. Refrigerate cupcakes 4 hours; serve in cupcake liners. Makes 12 cupcakes. Chef Tip: Use gluten free honey graham crackers for gluten free cupcakes.
January 14 Niceville Mattie Kelly Art Center Spirit Theater ECMA Concert FREE 850-897-1505 January 1-February 1 Sandestin Baytowne Wharf Baytowne on Ice SEE AD on page for times $11 - 90 Minutes, $3 Skates 850-714-7614 January 4 Sandestin Baytowne Wharf Winter Wonderland 9-1pm FREE 850-267-8186 PCB Camp Saint Helen American Music Series The Currys 6:30-8:30pm FREE 850-233-5059 January 4-5 OK Island Gulfarium Military Weekend 50% Off Admission W/Military ID 850-243-9046 January 6 Destin Community Center Destin Snowbird Registration 1-3pm $8 850-654-5184 January 7 Destin Whole Foods Sip n Strokes 7-10pm $15 850-269-7400 January 8 PCB Just Jump Toddler Time 8-9am $12 Ages 6 and Under Includes Snack & Drink 844-344-5867 January 9 FWB EC Science Center Sordid Secrets of the Stars Planetarium 6-9pm $9 Adult $8 Seniors No one under 18 850-664-1261
Sandestin Emerald Coast Theatre Gileah Taylor: A Life Lived in Song 7pm $28 & Up 850-684-0323 January 11 FWB Civic Auditorium Adam Hawley’s My New Year Groove 7-10pm $25 - $45 850-833-9590 Grayton Beach Beer Company Dog Days R(Over) 11-7pm FREE - Bring yr pet for 10% off Drinks 850-231-4786 Niceville Slick Micks Biker Breakfast 8-9am $10 Buffet 850-850-897-2583 PCB Camp Saint Helen American Music Series Bing Futch 6:30-8:30pm FREE 850-233-5059 January 11-12 OK Island Gulfarium Military Weekend 50% Off Admission W/Military ID 850-243-9046 Seaside The Rep Theatre The Escape Ensemble Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2pm $30 850-231-0733 January 12 Destin HarborWalk Village Brunch Rhythm & Blues 2pm FREE 850-424-0600 Grayton Beach Lululemon Run Club 8:30-10am FREE 850-534-0701
January 14 Mary Ester Santa Rosa Mall Pet Parade 5-8pm FREE 850-244-2172 January 15 Mattie Kelly Arts Center Whitney Houston Greatest Love 7:30pm $45 850-729-6000 January 16 Okaloosa Island EC Convention Center Winter Guest Fest 1:30-4:30pm FREE 850-609-3800 Sandestin Emerald Caost Theatre Company Winston Churchill: Through the Storm 7-9pm $28 & Up 850-684-0323 January 17
Freeport Nick’s on the Bayou Annual Bonfire 6pm FREE 850-835-2222 Grayton Beach Beer Company Pints & Paints 6pm $40 Over 21 850-231-4786 Okaloosa Island Convention Ctr EC Gymnastics Vacation Classic $13 and Up - Under 4 FREE 850-609-3800
January 18 Destin HarborWalk Village Best of the West Jazz Competition 11-5pm FREE 850-424-0600 FWB Santa Rosa Mall Total Wellness Walk 10-4pm FREE 850-244-2172 January 18-19 OK Island Gulfarium Military Weekend 50% Off Admission W/Military ID 850-243-9046 January 19 Grayton Beach Lululemon Run Club 8:30-10am FREE 850-534-0701 January 21 Destin Whole Foods Sip n Strokes 5:30-8:30pm $15 850-269-7400 FWB EC Science Center Home School Academy 9-1pm $30-$35 850-664-1261 January 21-23 Sandestin EC Theatre Company Buyer & Cellar 7:30-9:30pm January 22 Ok Island - Island Hotel Coastal Fashion Week 7-9pm 800-874-8962 January 23 Sandestin Baytowne Wharf Bubbly Baytowne 5-6pm FREE 850-424-0600 January 24 Niceville Mattie Kelly Art Center Wild World of Animals 7:30-9pm $20 Adults $10 Youth 850-729-6000 January 25 FWB EC Science Center Sip & Science 6-9pm $30 over 21 only 850-664-1261 continued on page 44
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continued from page 42 PCB Camp Saint Helen American Music Series Mean Mary 6:30-8:30pm FREE 850-233-5059 PCB Man in the Sea Museum Oyster Bash 2020 1-5pm $35 850-235-4101 Seaside The Rep Theatre Escape to Create: Caroline Cotter Concert 7:30pm $30 850-231-0733 SRB Topsail Hill Preserve Park Love Tracks 5K/Walk/Run 850-6267-8330 January 25-26
February 8 January 31 Destin Pompano Joes Mattie Kelly Arts Center Rock the Road 5K & Speaker Series Kids 1 Mile Fun Run John Quinones 8:30-Noon 7:30pm $38-$45 FREE 850-837-2224 850-729-6000 January 31 - February 2 Ok Island EC Convention Center Force Dance Tour Dance Competition 850-301-9000
FWB Santa Rosa Mall Cupids Market 10-5pm FREE 850-244-2172
February 1
OK Island EC Convention Center Mardi Gras Ball 7-11pm $75 and Up 850-609-3800
Destin, FWB & PCB Home Depot Kids Workshops 9-Noon FREE 850-650-4175 Destin Legendary Marine Palate & Palette Wine Dinner 6-10pm $125 - $140 850-337-8300 Niceville Farmers Market 120 Partin Dr. 7-2pm 850-729-2120
OK Island Gulfarium Kids FREE Weekend 9-3:30pm Under 12 FREE W/Paid Adult 850-243-9046 January 26 Destin Embassy Suites Emerald Coast Bridal Expo 1-5pm FREE 850-337-7000 January 30 Destin The Henderson Resort & Spa FRLA NWFL Awards Dinner 6pm $45 and Up 855-741-2777 Sandestin EC Theatre Company Resurrecting Van Gogh 7-9pm $28 & Up 850-684-0323 January 30-February 2 Rosemary Beach Girls Getaway $200 and Up 866-348-8952
Seaside Rep Theatre The Brevet LIVE@TheRep 7:30pm $30 - Members $24 850-231-0733 February 4 Destin Whole Foods Sip n Strokes 5:30-8:30pm $15 850-269-7400 February 6 Sandestin EC Theatre Company Dinner with Booker T 7-9pm $28 & Up 850-684-0323 February 6-8 Seaside REP Student Directed One-Act Festival 7pm $6 850-231-0733
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PCB Camp Saint Helen American Music Series Webb Wilder 6:30-8:30pm FREE 850-233-5059 February 9 FWB Downtown Mardi Gras Parade & Throwdown 10:30-4pm FREE 850-833-9500 Niceville Mattie Kelly Arts Center Bandstand the Musical 7:30 - 9:30 $49 850-729-6000 February 14-15 Sandestin Baytowne Wharf Gumbo Festival Friday 5pm, Sat Noon-4pm $35-$45 850-267-8180 February 15 Destin The Back Porch Son of a Beach 5K 8am Start $20 info@beachultra.com Seaside Rep Theatre Escape to Create A Jazz Valentine to 30A 7:30pm $30 $24 Members 850-231-0733 February 16 SRB Topsail Hill Preserve Park Love Tracks 5k Walk/Run $5 - $25 (Pets too) 7-10:30am 850-267-8330
February 18 Destin Whole Foods Sip n Strokes 5:30-8:30pm $15 850-269-7400 FWB EC Science Center Home School Academy 9-1pm $30-$35 850-664-1261 February 19 - 23 Aly’s Beach 30A Wine Festival Location & Times Vary $ Varys Depending on Event 850-213-5500 February 20 Sandestin Baytowne Wharf Bubbly Baytowne 5-6pm FREE 850-424-0600 February 20-22 Sandestin EC Theatre Company Maytag Virgin 7:30-9:30pm $28 & Up 850-684-0323 February 21 Niceville Mattie Kelly Arts Center Jersey Boys 7:30pm $49 850-729-6000 February 21-22 PCB Pier Park Mardi Gras Parade & Music Festival Friday 4-8:30pm Sat 8-7pm FREE 1-800-722-3224 February 22
Destin HarborWalk Village Mardi Gras Parade & Pawdi Gras 4pm FREE 850-424-0600 Seaside Rep Theatre Missy Anderson LIVE@TheREP 7:30pm $30 - $24 Members 850-231-0733
February 23 Sandestin Baytowne Wharf Mardi Gras Parade 2pm FREE 850-424-0600
February 25 Sandestin Baytowne Wharf Mardi Gras Street Parade 6pm FREE 850-424-0600
February 22-23 OK Island EC Convention Center BIA - Home Show Sat 9-5pm Sun 11-4pm $2 - $5 12 & Under FREE 850-609-3800
February 28 Niceville Mattie Kelly Arts Center NWFl Ballet - Cinderella 7:30pm $40 Adults $20 Under 12 850-729-6000
February 22 PCB Camp Saint Helen American Music Series Lucky Mud 6:30-8:30pm FREE 850-233-5059
Seaside Lyceum Taste of the Race 7-10pm $99 850-231-0396
February 23 Niceville NWFL St College Mardi Gras Food & Wine Fest 1-4pm $40-$45 850-729-6000 Sandestin Baytowne Wharf Mardi Gras Dog Parade 2pm FREE 850-267-8117
February 29 Destin Commons Parrot Head Chili Cook Off 11-4pm $15 in Advance $20 at Event 850-424-7600 Destin Princess Party Boat Shrimp & Grits Festival Noon 850-837-5088
March 1
For More Events, Please Visit www.OntheCoastMag. com or Facebook at www.facebook.com/ OnTheCoastMagazine/
Niceville Mattie Kelly Arts Center NWFl Ballet - Cinderella 2:30pm $40 Adults $20 Under 12 850-729-6000 March 4 Sandestin Baytowne Wharf Wednesday Night Concerts FREE 850-424-0600 March 8 Destin Commons Mac & Cheese Festival 1-3pm 850-424-7600
Do YOU have an event you’d like to share? Please add them to our website at www.OntheCoastMag.com (top right) where it can be added to our weekly *WIN WEDNESDAY* Newsletters. Please verify your event with the host of the event by calling or visiting their website. We offer a FREE directory listing for all businesses here On the Coast and are happy to promote your events In Print, On Line & Socially, all at no charge!
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MOVING FORWARD continued from page 12 2. Remember that forgiveness is a choice. Forgiveness is a freedom you give yourself. If you feel as though you’re carrying hurtful memories or anger into 2020, it will affect every relationship. Why destroy positive relationships with others because of hurts from the past? Free yourself to love by forgiving old grudges.
No one gets through a life well lived without having setbacks, a broken heart, or being wronged or disappointed by someone they loved. You can’t change your past, but your present and future actions and attitude are within your control. Leave the negative thoughts and free yourself to move forward into the New Year!
3. Focus on what you can control in your life. You can control your healthy lifestyle, how you communicate and with whom, what you eat, and what you spend time and energy on. Let go of the past because you cannot go back and change it today. 4. Live in the present but build towards the future. Living in the present forces you to appreciate moments and not ruminate about the past. Spend more time with friends and family, creating new memories that overshadow past hurts. Invest in yourself and others by volunteering or helping with a community project that will impact generations to come.
WHAT EXCUSES ARE YOU LOOKING FOR? continued from page 14 “I’m tired.” Maybe, but if you have been using this one for a long time then it’s time to saddle up to the gym and get your move on. Regular exercise has been shown to improve energy levels and productivity. “I can't afford it.” Consider a fitness program that does not rely on the gym. Try a local sports league or home-based workouts. It will be worth it to get started slowly and save your money along the way for proper instruction to develop a safe and effective routine in the long run. Make the investment in yourself.
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“I am too out of shape.” Really? Yes, I have heard this one and it only proves what was mentioned earlier: “If you are looking for an excuse, any one will do.” As the saying goes, insanity can be defined as doing the same thing over and over again while expecting different results. What is it that is keeping you from being your best? What excuses are you settling for?
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