Emerald Coast Parent Magazine

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WHEN YOUR CHILD IS AFRAID OF THE WATER RELAXED, REFRESHED AND READY FOR ANYTHING: Half a Day Away for Mom MEN’S HEALTH: Regular Exams for Peak Performance 10 Reasons Why You Should Encourage Your Teen to Be a Camp Counselor

May+June 2018

Visit us at itsyourmagazine.com

May+June 2018

contents

14 24 INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Strong Families Don’t Just Happen

5 9 10

22

Relaxed, Refreshed and Ready for Anything: H alf a Day Away for Mom! Men’s Health: Regular Exams for Peak Performance 10 Reasons Why You Should Encourage Your Teen to Be a Camp Counselor

14 37

When Your Child Is Afraid of the Water Teen Talk Helpful Advice from One Teen to Another

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

RESOURCE GUIDE

38

Looking for fun, adventure, and great food?

Experience life to the fullest by discovering new tastes and fun-filled experiences—the Emerald Coast has it all. Enjoy!

FAMILY FUN GUIDE

45

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

YOUR FAMILY’S HEALTH

18

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

Plantar Fasciitis—A Pain in the Heel............................18

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

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

22 FamilyChatter

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

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4 • May+June 2018 • EC Parent Magazine

RELAXED, REFRESHED AND READY FOR ANYTHING:

Half a Day Away for Mom

By Alyssa Chirco

Let’s face it, a mom can get burned out mentally, physically and emotionally simply from trying to juggle it all. A constantly busy schedule with a lack of downtime is often the culprit, leaving mom feeling raw, reactive, and even Continued on page 6 sometimes desperate.

ItsYourMagazine.com • EC Parent Magazine • May+June 2018 • 5

DOES A WHOLE HALF-DAY TO YOURSELF SOUND IMPOSSIBLE?

G Continued on page 7

Does a whole half-day to yourself sound impossible? Well, maybe not! Half a day away adds up to just six hours of you time. And, if your kids are school-aged, six hours is the length of a typical school day anyway, making a half-day retreat the perfect chance for you to slip away from the siren call of chores, bills and shopping.

So, if you have never considered the possibility of a little escape before, maybe it’s time to try. Planning a half-day getaway may be just what the doctor ordered, even if it sounds like an indulgence. And don’t worry about the cost—just spend whatever you can afford. In a few short hours, you can reclaim your sense of self and return home feeling relaxed, refreshed, and ready for anything.

How does the countdown to a mini-getaway for mom work?

Let me break it down for you.

1. Plan Your Escape.

Make sure each child will be cared for, whether at school, with the sitter, or at an extended play date with a trusted friend. Prep your spouse. Once he understands that the goal here is a happier helpmate, there is no doubt he will be supportive. Communicate calmly and clearly about your decision to take a little time for you and no one will question the practicality of the decision. They will discover soon enough that when mom is happy, the whole family is happier, too.

EC Parent Magazine • May+June 2018 • 6

2. Prepare the Day Before.

Have the morning routine smoothly planned. Prepare lunches the night before. Pack the kids’ backpacks and also your bag with items you don’t want to forget. Get up early. Get the kids up a little early. Keep everyone on track and get out the door on time.

No need to remind the kids what you are doing on your special day. Just give them a kiss and tell them to have a great day and that you’ll see them after school, as usual. After all, making time for mom should be normal, not abnormal.

Continued on page 8

GYROS SPYROS Get up early.

Get the kids up a little early.

Keep everyone on track and get out the door on time.

WELL, MAYBE NOT! HALF A DAY AWAY ADDS UP TO JUST SIX HOURS OF YOU TIME. EC Parent Magazine • May+June 2018 • 7

Continued from page 7

3. Keep in Touch.

7 RELAXING WAYS TO SPEND A MOM GETAWAY DAY

As long as you have your cell phone, and assuming it’s a regularly scheduled day, there is nothing for you to worry about. Keep your phone in your pocket but resist the urge to check it constantly. If a child comes down with the flu or skips a nap and becomes inconsolable, you are only a phone call away. But don’t expect imminent disaster or it might undermine your fun. Chances are very good that the world won’t stop spinning just because you are taking some time to relax. Truly. And if your day is interrupted, don’t let this discourage you. Relax and enjoy whatever amount of time you can get this time, and then try again next week or next month. The more you practice, the better you will get at taking a half-day away.

1. SPA TRIP: How about a massage and a hot tub soak?

2. LONG LUNCH: Bring a really good book or a stack of magazines.

3. SHOPPING DAY: Your favorite location, try on as much as you like with no interruptions.

4. MUSEUM TOUR: Seen any good exhibits lately?

5. MOVIE MATINEE: That rom-com nobody wants to see but you?

Now you can.

6. SALON DAY: Hair, nails and toes— make a day of it!

7. ANTIQUING OR JUNKING AT NEARBY SHOPS AND THRIFT STORES: You’ll get inspired to update your décor for less.

Escape on a Shoestring You don’t have to spend a lot to take a day to yourself. Six hours to yourself is relaxing no matter how much you spend. Pull together your escape bag.

Pack a lunch. Check out some magazines from the library. Window shop. Eat at a bakery or sandwich shop. Check out free museum days. Take advantage of matinee prices. Or just meander around a nearby city or town without a plan. If you end up walking around the park, enjoying the day, and phoning friends because it’s something you never seem to have time to do at home, embrace it. Your primary goal is to take good care of you, whatever you decide that means, and give everyone else a chance to take care of themselves without you. It’s important for every mom to practice relying on others so that this ability doesn’t get too rusty.

Message to Working Moms Work at home or away from home? Then you really deserve a half-day just for you! Some working moms might have a couple of personal days left at the end of the vacation year that can be cashed in on a Friday or a Monday.

And work-at-home moms can usually squeeze a five-day workload into four days to give themselves an extra weekend day once in a while. Plan ahead, communicate what you need with superiors, and get your half-day away on your schedule ahead of time to make sure it actually happens. Otherwise, relaxation for mom is likely to fall off the bottom of the list. v

Christina Katz is a diligent, multi-tasking work-at-home mom, but she can tell when it’s time to get the heck out of Dodge. Her latest book is The Art of Making Time for Yourself, A Collection of Advice for Moms.

8 • May+June 2018 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

MEN’S HEALTH Regular Exams for Peak Performance

By Jan Udlock

While it is an often-spoken stereotype that men don’t go to the doctor, for many men there is a lot of truth to the statement. However, taking the time to develop a doctor-patient relationship with your family physician when you are healthy is a good investment in the future. Your doc can talk to you about simple health screenings, necessary blood work, any male-related concerns, and weight control. Yes, many of the following health tests are inconvenient and uncomfortable; however, these tests have the potential to save your life.

PSA Screening The PSA test, which detects the level of prostate-specific antigen, a substance produced by the prostate gland in the blood, is recommended for men at the age of 50. An elevated level of PSA in the blood can indicate a possible benign (not cancerous) prostate condition or prostate cancer. “The two biggest killers of middleaged men are heart attack/strokes and cancer” says David David MD, family practitioner, PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center.

Doctors can use the PSA test along with a digital rectal exam to detect cancer in men who have no symptoms. It is also recommended for men in their 40s to have a PSA screening if they have either past male-related problems or if they have a family history of prostate cancer.

So, are men off the hook if they’re not yet 50? Dr. David suggests that men in their 30s and 40s check in with their doctor to build that trusted relationship in order to ask their doctor Continued on page 13

“The two biggest killers of middle-aged men are heart attack/strokes and cancer.”

ItsYourMagazine.com • EC Parent Magazine • May+June 2018 • 9

By Jan Udlock

Junior

Junior

CIT

Counselor in Training

10 Reasons Why You Should Encourage Your Teen to Be a

CAMP COUNSELOR

Your teen has been to summer camp for a few years and now he’s old enough to join camp staff as a counselor in training (CIT). Why should he? What are the benefits of your child being on staff? Counselors on staff are provided important training, get real-life opportunities to manage conflict, and learn practical life skills, all while having fun. Here are 10 practical reasons why a teen should think about joining camp staff for the summer.

Valuable Training

1

ew counselors are provided a wide N variety of training.

A portion of it may be off-site, such as manuals that need to be read before camp and online courses, but the rest of the new skills will be learned at camp. “Topics such as recognizing and dealing with potential bullying, inappropriate behaviors, respect for fellow staff and campers, and how to encourage children to participate at activities should be included in camp staff training,” says Howard Batterman, owner of Sesame/Rockwood Camps and Diamond Ridge Camps.

10 • May+June 2018 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

counselors are required 2 Ctoamp learn CPR and first aid.

This training will include learning to recognize and care for firstaid emergencies, such as burns and cuts, neck and back injuries, and heat and cold emergencies.

any camps provide “real life situations” 3 Mtraining for counselors and their CITs.

According to American Camp Association, the average age for CITs is 15 and the average age of a camp counselor is 20 to 25.

Check into the facility’s program to see if the camp has a designated level of counselors like CITs for a year and then progress to a full-time counselor.

Iron Plan Solutions Group 308 W. Government Street Pensacola, FL 32502

staff learn to rely on each other 4 Candampwork as a team.

This is a time for counselors to share their assessments on how their cabin members are working together. Team building among the staff can happen too during these down times. Your teen can learn various people skills that will help her in the future.

feedback is often helpful in 5 Athedditional maturing of a camp counselor.

“That is why it is so important for the directors and administrators of a camp to monitor the progress of each and every staff member with constructive and written progress reports throughout the summer session,” says Batterman.

Builds Confidence amp staff have a lot of fun but are also 6 Crequired to be role models.

“Working hard to set a positive example for youth is a challenging growth experience. When was the last time an 18-year-old went 9 weeks without swearing, for example?” says psychologist Dr. Christopher A. Thurber.

“Working hard to set a positive example for youth is a challenging growth experience.”

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learn to deal with con7 Cflictampandcounselors difficult situations.

Staff learn to recognize conflict and help campers see there are always two sides to a story. Camp staff work with kids to help them see that what they learn at camp can be brought home with them when the campers are back to the “real world.” And your teen will learn the same conflict-resolution skills that they are teaching campers.

Enhances Leadership Skills ounselors also have to make sure their 8 Ccampers are being good sports.

They need to rally the troops in a competition but remember good sportsmanship at the same time, which isn’t always an easy thing to do. Being a staff member is a 24/7 job. And fortunately, electronics are discouraged during camp, so it’s a positive environment to interact with other staff and campers. “Each activity, including meals, is a terrific opportunity for the counselor to be creative in helping children become confident at an activity and in ways to get along with other campers and staff,” says Batterman.

Continued on page 12

EC Parent Magazine • May+June 2018 • 11

4/23/2018 10:1

Continued from page 11

eing a camp counselor, they may get a 9 Bchance to laugh at themselves.

Kids can be brutally honest and will point out the counselors’ shortcomings. “So being a camp counselor is therefore humbling and tremendously demanding,” says Thurber.

Your once-shy, awkward 18-year-old may come home a bit more boisterous and chatty. amp counselors also get a chance to 10 Cspeak in front of groups.

They’ll learn to be more outgoing and silly at the same time. Your once-shy, awkward 18-year-old may come home a bit more boisterous and chatty. “Camp staff directly influence youth development in ways that are tangible, rewarding, entertaining and, of course, fun,” says Thurber. Camp staff thrive in an environment of exploration, build self-esteem in themselves and their campers, and have fun while doing it. v

Jan Udlock is a freelance writer and mom of five. She can be contacted at JanUdlock.com.

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Continued from page 9

various health questions and establish baselines for their health history.

Cholesterol High blood cholesterol levels are a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke.

An unhealthy diet can result in high cholesterol, as well as a family history of high cholesterol. It’s important for men to know not only their total cholesterol number but also the breakdown of their “good” cholesterol (HDL), “bad” cholesterol (LDL), and triglycerides, says David.

High cholesterol can be lowered with a low saturated-fat diet, weight loss, and physical exercise. Medication can be prescribed by your doc but it’s not a replacement for a healthy diet. If your cholesterol numbers are in the normal range, your cholesterol can be checked every three years.

So What’s Your BMI? Body Mass Index is the estimate of body fat and is calculated by your height and weight.

You can easily determine your BMI by going online to sites such as Centers for Disease Control and plug in your weight and height.

A healthy BMI range is between 20 and 24.

Weight loss reduces your risk for coronary heart disease and high blood pressure.

According to the National Institute of Health, a 5 to 10 percent reduction in weight can significantly reduce health risk factors. Weight loss reduces your risk for coronary heart disease and high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. Diet modification and increased exercise will lower your BMI.

Depression Again the doctor-patient relationship is important for men to develop so that they can talk with their doctor about any concerns regarding depressive thoughts.

Counseling and/or medication may be recommended. Depression is a treatable EC Parent Magazine • May+June 2018 • 13

condition and one that affects both the mind and body.

Depression is a treatable condition that affects both the mind and body.

Low Testosterone A commonly overlooked condition that affects 10 percent of middle-aged men is low testosterone levels. Men are often reluctant to talk to their doctor about non-specific symptoms like low sex drive, slow metabolism, low energy, and irritability/moodiness. It is common, according to Dr. David, that the wife may be the one who drags her husband in to talk to the doc. A physician can order blood tests and discuss with his patient the various options available.

Other Cancers Men have a higher rate of skin cancer, according to the National Council of Skin Care Prevention. Your health care provider will have recommendations for skin cancer screening. However, if you have a family history of skin cancer, see a dermatologist sooner than the recommendation. Skin cancer is treatable if caught in the early stages.

The American Cancer Society reports that colon cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer. Depending on your health care provider, men over the age of 50 are recommended to have a sigmoidoscopy or a colonoscopy. A fecal occult blood test may be your first step in determining when you require a colonoscopy.

Staying informed about your health and making your health a priority is work.

However, these health tests are well worth your time. Check in with your doctor.

Reminder: This article is for informational purposes only. Please check with your health care provider regarding your specific need. v

Jan Udlock is a freelance writer and can be contacted at jan@janudlock.com

By Myrna Beth Haskell

When Your Child Is Afraid of the Water It wasn’t that my son disliked being in the water. He loved to take baths and go to the beach or to the swimming pool. However, he was unwilling to put his face in or to submerge himself past the waist. When he was two I didn’t worry about it too much. I continued to take him swimming and I continued to hope that his fear would pass. Then he turned three, four, five, and things were not getting much better. I would watch as other moms would sit casually by the side of the pool and chat while their children fearlessly frolicked in and under the water. I, on the other hand, would nervously watch just a few feet away from my son. I was terrified that someone would dunk him under inadvertently, and I knew from previous experience that this would be an enormous setback. I used to think, If he would just put his head under once, he would lose his fear. It wasn’t until my son was six and a half that we finally broke some barriers, and at seven he finally began to swim.

Continued on page 16

14 • May+June 2018 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

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A fear of water is not something to take lightly. In their book Monsters Under the Bed and Other Childhood Fears, Stephen W. Garber, Ph.D., Marianne Garber, Ph.D., and Robyn Freedman Spizman warn the reader that a child’s fear of water can be quite a handicap. “It means that when all your child’s friends are jumping in the pool, your child is left on the sidelines. Worse than that, if a child is so frightened of the water that he is unable to swim, it is dangerous to play near the water.” Therefore, it is beneficial to help your child get over his fear of the water as soon as possible, and a good way to start is to try to get him to verbalize what he specifically fears: Is he afraid to put his face in because the water will hurt his eyes? Is he afraid he will go down and not come back up? Try

non-swimmer by deep water. Learning safety rules in and around the water is essential.

Expose your child to positive literature about the joy of swimming or having fun at the beach. Barney and Baby Bop at the Beach (Barney Publishing) is a good book for toddlers, and Let’s Go Swimming with Mr. Sillypants (Knopf Books) is also terrific. Sharing positive, age-appropriate literature with your child is always a good choice. Conversely, exposure to television or movies that contain accidents in or by the water could have an extremely negative effect.

A child’s fear of water can be quite a handicap.

“It means that when all your child’s friends are jumping in the pool, your child is left on the sidelines. Worse than that, if a child is so frightened of the water that he is unable to swim, it is dangerous to play near the water.”

to recall his past experiences. Did he have an accident at a pool, or something as simple as getting soap in his eyes during a bath? If you can get to the root of his fear, you have a place to begin.

Start Early If you’re reading this and your child is still too young to swim, there are some things you can do to try to prevent this fear before it rears its ugly head. This is the best scenario because preventing the fear in the first place is much easier than trying to allay a fear once it has taken hold. Positive exposure to water from infancy is a must. Make sure that bath time is fun time.

There are so many interesting toys, paints and colorful stick-ons that your child can use in the bath. A parent’s comments and body language during a child’s exposure to water is paramount in helping the child to form a positive attitude toward water. When my son was a toddler and I would take him to the neighborhood pool, I was always reaching to grab him in a frightened manner when he would wander toward the edge. I knew that the water was over his head in the shallow end. My own trepidations may have contributed to my son’s extreme fear of water. This is not to say that you should not take careful precautions when you have a

Go Slowly You may have heard the dated philosophy that advocated throwing a child into water over his head. The idea was that this child would swim for his life. Let’s leave it at that—an idea. The worst thing you can do for a child who is afraid of the water is to traumatize him further. Instead, you should maintain patience and persistence. Garber, Garber and Spizman warn that you must “realize that it takes time to get over a fear. There will be times when things do not go as you planned. Step back and try again.”

Expose your child to water as often as possible. In addition to formal swim lessons (private lessons might better suit an extremely fearful child), there are many activities you can do with your child to supplement the work he does with his swim instructor. However, don’t plan to work with your child in a crowded pool. There are too many distractions.

Many parents choose to use floatation devices (such as swimmies or vests). I have heard mixed reviews from swim teachers and parents. Some children may become dependent on their floatation device. I allowed my son to use his vest for deep-water exploration but not for more shallow-water exploration. For the child who is afraid to put his face in (this was my son’s problem), Continued on page 20

16 • May+June 2018 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

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Plantar Fasciitis—A Pain in the Heel If your first few steps out of bed in the morning cause a stabbing pain in the heel of your foot, it’s very likely you are suffering from plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis involves the inflammation of a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes. The pain is typically worse first thing in the morning or after other long periods of physical inactivity.

Plantar fasciitis is quite common, with an estimated 10 percent of Americans experiencing the condition at some point in their lifetime. It is most common in adults between the ages of 40 and 60. Risk factors that increase your likelihood of a plantar fasciitis diagnosis are:

• Being female • Running, as a sport or hobby • Being overweight • Having a job that requires a lot of walking or standing on hard surfaces

The condition typically starts gradually, with the sensation of mild pain at the heel bone, often referred to as a stone bruise. The patient is more likely to feel the pain after, as opposed to during, physical exercise.

Plantar fasciitis is a fairly common and treatable overuse injury. But left untreated, it can become a chronic condition that prevents you from maintaining your activity level. It can also cause knee, hip and back problems, because plantar fasciitis can change the way you walk.

18 • May+June 2018 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Under normal circumstances, your plantar fascia acts as a shock-absorbing bowstring, supporting the arch in your foot.

Repetitive or chronic tension and stress on that bowstring can create small tears in the fascia and a resulting inflammation, though in many cases the cause of plantar fasciitis isn’t clear.

Footwear with proper arch and heel support is the best way to try to prevent foot pain and injuries, but if you find yourself with a diagnosis or suspected case of plantar fasciitis, there are some steps you can take at home. First, consider keeping weight off your foot until the initial inflammation subsides, applying ice to the painful area in 20 minute intervals throughout the day.

Finally, stretching exercises for your Achilles tendon and plantar fascia are by far the best treatments to address the injury and prevent reoccurrence. A qualified orthopedist or physical therapist can help you with a definitive diagnosis and to develop a program you can follow at home. They can also advise you on how and when to return to your desired level of activity, to ensure you don’t hinder your recovery.

Most important, don’t write off foot pain as something you just have to live with. Talk with your primary care physician about any issues that send you to the medicine cabinet regularly for managing pain or that restrict your level of movement and quality of life. v

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Continued from page 16

slow but progressive work is best. First have your child get used to splashing water on his face in the sink or tub. Then try this at the pool, but have him slowly walk into waist-deep water first.

Demonstrate how to blow bubbles and have a contest to see who can make the biggest splash. You may want to try a pair of goggles that go over the eyes and nose. My son picked out his own pair at the store and felt much more comfortable knowing that his eyes and nose were protected.

Children often forget their fears when they are having fun, so playing games in the water works wonders. Throw objects (such as pennies) into the water and see who can fetch the most in the least amount of time. However, do not throw objects in where your child must submerge all the way into the water or he will object to the game from the start. Measure objects under water or throw floatable rings and see who can retrieve the most. My son enjoys playing “shark and minnow.” The shark tries to catch the minnow before it reaches a prescribed base, and I always get to play the role of the minnow. The purpose of all of these games is to help your child to relax in the water so that he will forget to be afraid. Try to keep in mind that regression is common and that you need to continue to go one step at a time.

Be Positive It is very easy to get frustrated when you are trying to teach a fearful child to swim, which is why it is sometimes best to leave the teaching to the experts. However, parents can help facilitate positive experiences.

Help your child learn to relax in the water by playing games and having fun. A calm and joyful demeanor in and around water is a must. In addition, avoid comparing him to your other children who learned to swim quickly or to his friends who seem to progress at a normal rate. This will only hurt his self-esteem and cause him to conjure negative feelings about the activity.

Create a calendar together with dates marked for benchmarks he is trying to reach. Have him place a sticker on each day that he accomplishes a new skill. You can also offer rewards when a successful plateau is finally reached. For instance, when your child is able to put his head under, tell him that you will take him out for some ice cream or to a movie. Most important, show your child that you love to swim. Sometimes observing others having fun in the water is enough encouragement.

It took several years for my son to finally feel comfortable completely submerged under water. However, his swimming ability accelerated very quickly soon after. Keep in mind that what works for one child may not work for another. Talk to swim instructors and other parents to get ideas. Eventually, something will click.

You should be reassured by the fact that your child is acquiring a life-saving skill—one that will surely bring him pleasure as he swims with family and friends for years to come. v Myrna Beth Haskell is an award-winning author, columnist and speaker.

For more about her book LIONS and TIGERS and TEENS: Expert advice and support for the conscientious parent just like you (Unlimited Publishing LLC, 2012) and other works, please visit www.myrnahaskell.com.

20 • May+June 2018 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Be reassured by the fact that your child is acquiring a life-saving skill—one that will surely bring him pleasure as he swims with family and friends for years to come.

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FEAR NO MIRROR ®

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

Live, Laugh, Love, and TALK TOGETHER! If you were given a million dollars and told to spend it all on a charity of your choice, what would you do with it?

How would you like to be described by your friends?

What would be worse during the summer?

• Having to take summer school • Having to babysit often • Working a summer job

Who is the oldest living member of your extended family?

What are some interesting facts about them, what they’ve seen and lived through?

What are some of your personal strengths/skills that make you unique?

What are some of your weaknesses?

What do you love most about your mother?

What are some ways you can show your appreciation?

If you had to choose to be abnormally tall or short, which would you choose. Why? How do you think your life might change?

If you could call one world leader and ask him/her one question, who would you call and what would you ask?

Complete this sentence:

This summer, I would like to learn how to ______________________.

Challenge yourself to do something new.

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

What do you love most about your father?

What are some ways you can show your appreciation?

22 • May+June 2018 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

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Place text here that introduces your organization and describes your specific products or services. This text should be brief and should entice the reader to want to know more about the goods or services you offer.

Place text here that introduces your organization and describes your specific products or services. This text should be brief and should entice the reader to want to know more about the goods or services you offer.

Place text here that introduces your organization and describes your specific products or services. This text should be brief and should entice the reader to want to know more about the goods or services you offer.

Place text here that introduces your organization and describes your specific products or services. This text should be brief and should entice the reader to want to know more about the goods or services you offer.

CISE KIDS AND EXER

Stay Active, Stay Healthy and Have Fun! When most adults think about exercise, they imagine working out in the gym on a treadmill or lifting weights.

• possibly lower blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels

• have a better outlook on life

But for kids, exercise means playing and being physically active. Kids exercise when they have gym class at school, during recess, at dance class or soccer practice, while riding bikes, or when playing tag.

Besides enjoying the health benefits of regular exercise, kids who are physically fit sleep better and are better able to handle physical and emotional challenges—from running to catch a bus to studying for a test.

The Many Benefits of Exercise

The Three Elements of Fitness

veryone can benefit from regular exerE cise. Kids who are active will:

• have stronger muscles and bones • have a leaner body because exercise helps control body fat • be less likely to become overweight • decrease the risk of developing type 2 diabetes

If you’ve ever watched kids on a playground, you’ve seen the three elements of fitness in action when they: 1. run away from the kid who’s “it” (endurance) 2. cross the monkey bars (strength) 3. bend down to tie their shoes (flexibility)

Parents should encourage their kids to do a variety of activities so that they can work on all three elements.

Endurance is developed when kids regularly engage in aerobic activity. During aerobic exercise, the heart beats faster and a person breathes harder. When done regularly and for extended periods of time, aerobic activity strengthens the heart and improves the body’s ability to deliver oxygen to all its cells.

Aerobic exercise can be fun for both adults and kids. Examples of aerobic activities include:

• basketball • bicycling • ice-skating • inline skating • soccer

• swimming • tennis • walking • jogging • running

Improving strength doesn’t have to mean lifting weights. Although some kids Continued on page 27

24 • May+June 2018 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Cut out this page.

Then cut it down the middle.

He takes his half, she takes hers.

Keep it simple.

Don’t keep score.

Just enjoy life and each other— as often as you remember!

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

10 WAYS to sh w

R E H y u care Make a list of ten reasons you love her or appreciate her and leave them out for her to find (put a rose or chocolate next to it).

Help her complete a major to-do.

Share the responsibilities around the house.

Value and inspire her individuality.

Play a board game with her—just the two of you—relax and have fun.

Treat yourselves to a little staycation. Especially when life gets too busy. Take a break, act like a tourist and enjoy life a little.

Practice common courtesies like holding the door for her, pouring her coffee.

Challenge yourself to complete all 10 ideas in each issue.

Don’t just focus on the easy ones!

Sit close to her—even when you are just watching television.

Let her sleep in sometimes and you get the children ready for the day.

Suggest that she and a friend get manicures and/or pedicures.

ItsYourMagazine.com • EC Parent Magazine • May+June 2018 • 25

Cut out this page.

Then cut it down the middle.

He takes his half, she takes hers.

Keep it simple.

Don’t keep score.

Just enjoy life and each other— as often as you remember!

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

10 WAYS to sh w

M I H y u care Go for a walk on the beach together.

Play a board game together.

Flirt with him. Be playful.

Plan some family time.

Go bowling, go for a hike, a bike ride or to the beach.

Help him achieve a goal around the house that needs getting done.

Tell him that you’re happy you have him in your life.

Encourage him to spend some time enjoying his favorite book or hobby.

Look at him when he is talking.

Give him undivided attention.

Challenge yourself to complete all 10 ideas in each issue.

Don’t just focus on the easy ones!

Watch his favorite TV program together.

Take him on a shopping spree—for tools, not dresses.

26 • May+June 2018 • EC Parent Magazine

Continued from page 24

benefit from weightlifting, it should be done under the supervision of an experienced adult who works with them.

But most kids don’t need a formal weight-training program to be strong.

Push-ups, stomach crunches, pull-ups, and other exercises help tone and strengthen muscles. Kids also incorporate strength activities in their play when they climb, do a handstand, or wrestle.

Stretching exercises help improve flexibility, allowing muscles and joints to bend and move easily through their full range of motion. Kids look for opportunities every day to stretch when they try to get a toy just out of reach, practice a split, or do a cartwheel.

The Sedentary Problem The percentage of overweight and obese kids and teens has more than doubled in the past 30 years. Although many factors contribute to this epidemic, children are becoming more sedentary. In other words, they’re sitting around a lot more than they used to.

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, 8- to 18-year-olds watch about 4.5 hours of television a day. And the average kid spends 7 hours on all screen media combined (TV, videos and DVDs, computer time outside of schoolwork, and video games).

One of the best ways to get kids to be more active is to limit the amount of time spent in sedentary activities, especially watching TV or playing video games. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends these limits on screen time:

• kids under age 2 should watch no TV at all kids older than 2 should be restricted to just 1-2 hours a day of quality programming

•

How Much Exercise Is Enough?

Parents should make sure that their kids get enough exercise. So, how much is enough? Kids and teens should get 60 minutes or more of physical activity daily.

The National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) offers these activity guidelines for infants, toddlers and preschoolers:

Age

Minimum Daily Activity

Comments

Infant

No specific requirements

Physical activity should encourage motor development

Toddler

1½ hours

30 minutes planned physical activity and 60 minutes unstructured physical activity (free play)

Preschooler

2 hours

60 minutes planned physical activity and 60 minutes unstructured physical activity (free play)

School age

1 hour or more

Break up into bouts of 15 minutes or more

Infants and young children should not be inactive for prolonged periods of time—no more than 1 hour unless they’re sleeping. And school-age children should not be inactive for periods longer than 2 hours.

Raising Fit Kids Combining regular physical activity with a healthy diet is the key to a healthy lifestyle.

Here are some tips for raising fit kids:

• Help your kids participate in a variety of age-appropriate activities.

• Establish a regular schedule for physical activity.

• Incorporate activity into daily routines, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator.

• Embrace a healthier lifestyle yourself so that you’ll be a positive role model for your family.

• Keep it fun so that you can count on your kids to come back for more. v © 1995- 2014 . The Nemours Foundation/KidsHealth®. Reprinted with permission. Reviewed by: Mary L. Gavin, MD, Date reviewed: February 2012 ItsYourMagazine.com • EC Parent Magazine • May+June 2018 • 27

Teach Your K Some ids

New! thing

BE A VOLUNTE

ER

You’ve seen people in need on the news after a hurricane, earthquake or other disaster. Perhaps you’ve walked past homeless people who are living on the streets. Or maybe you’ve been to an animal shelter and wished you could give every pet a home.

So what can you do to help people (or animals) who need it?

The answer is—volunteer!

Volunteering means spending some of your free time helping others. You may volunteer to help other people, such as the families who lost their homes after a natural disaster. But you can also volunteer to protect animals, the environment, or any other cause that you care about.

Help Yourself by Helping Others Volunteering helps others, but it can also help you, too. If you’re upset about something that’s happened—like a hurricane or other disaster—doing something about it can be a great way to cope with your feelings.

Volunteering also lets you see your own life in new ways. Sometimes it’s easy to worry about stuff like grades or get annoyed because you don’t have the most expensive sneakers or the newest computer game. Volunteering lets you spend time focusing on others for a while.

Lots of people—and kids—find that they really enjoy volunteering. Volunteer experiences often put you in a different environment and expose you to people and situations that you wouldn’t have come across in your regular life. For instance, you might learn that just on the edge of your town are some kids who really need winter clothes.

It feels good to be able to meet a need like that. You’ll know that, thanks to you, some kids have warm coats, hats, mittens and boots.

So whether it’s winter clothes, food for the hungry, or homes for unwanted pets, doing volunteer work means one very important thing: You make a difference in the world.

Getting Started Some of you may already know about volunteering and service through 4H, Boy Scouts, or Girl Scouts. Religious organizations, like churches, synagogues and mosques, also organize volunteer and charity work.

School is another good place to start if you’re looking for volunteer ideas. Ask a teacher, school counselor, or librarian for ideas. Your local parks department also might have some suggestions for how kids can volunteer.

Some places want volunteers who are 12 or even older, depending on the job. Often kids start volunteering by working alongside their parents. For instance, you might be too young to prepare food at a soup kitchen, but if your parents volunteer there you might be able to go along and pitch in.

One girl who sent us an email said she helps out at a soup kitchen by playing cards with the homeless people who eat there. “It’s nice to see them smile,” said Sammy, 13.

Things to Do with Parents or Family Members Volunteering is a great way to have fun with your family. Talk to your parents, brothers or sisters and see what they might be interested in doing. Find something you all agree on.

Here are some ideas for things you can do as a family—or with a group that has adult supervision: Clean up a park or along a river.

Plant trees or flowers in your local community.

Serve food at a homeless shelter.

Deliver meals to people who are elderly or ill at home.

Clean up a school or other public building.

Count wildlife or plants for environmental groups.

Continued on page 31

28 • May+June 2018 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Mother’s Day Fruit Bouquet YOU NEED Watermelon Kiwi Pineapple Cantaloupe

• • • •

• Flower cookie cutters • Melon baller • Bamboo skewers

DIRECTIONS Cut watermelon and pineapple into 1/2” thick slices.

Using a flower shaped cookie cutter, cut out several pieces of watermelon and pineapple.

Using the melon baller, make several balls out of the watermelon and cantaloupe.

Cut the kiwi into ½” slices.

Assemble flowers with different layers to make a nice arrangement.

• • • • •

Tips: Create a nice self-standing fruit bouquet by sticking the assembled flower arrangements into half a watermelon.

Place each arrangement in such a way as to ensure that your final bouquet will be nicely balanced.

Fisherman Cupcakes YOU NEED White cake mix Blue frosting Cupcake liners Frosting syringe White thread or floss

• • • • •

• 1/8” dowel or bamboo skewers • White glue • Rainbow goldfish

DIRECTIONS Bake the cupcakes according to directions on the box. We baked ours in white cupcake liners.

Place the blue frosting in the frosting syringe with a large mouthed decorative opening. (If you cannot find blue frosting, you can always color yours with blue food coloring.) Squeeze the blue frosting onto the cupcake in a spiral pattern to create the blue water.

Cut dowels into 3” fishing rods.

Cut a 2” piece of floss and tie it onto the fishing rod.

Glue the other end of the floss to the back of a rainbow goldfish.

Allow the glue to dry completely.

Push the fishing rod into the cupcake at an angle.

Place the cupcake into a secondary, decorative cupcake liner.

• • • • • • •

If Dad’s a fisherman, he’s going to love these fun, tasty snacks.

30 • May+June 2018 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Continued from page 28

Invent Your Own Opportunity Kids also can come up with their own ways to raise money or provide needed services. Here are some ideas: Make and sell products and donate the money to charity. Carly, 11, and her sister Molly, 13, raised almost $10,000 for the American Cancer Society by selling honey at farmers’ markets and fairs.

Collect or earn money for charity. Talia, 10, trick-or-treated for donations to Hurricane Katrina victims; Kyra, 11, donated the money she made pet-sitting to a local animal shelter.

Start your own charity group. Three sisters, ages 8, 11 and 14, started Project Backpack to help kids who were evacuated after hurricanes Rita and Katrina.

Some schools now require kids to spend some time in service to others. Why? Because grown-ups hope kids will become caring people who see the value in giving of their time, talents and resources (like money, toys, or clothes they might donate). Volunteering gives kids a taste of responsibility because people are depending on them for something important.

Volunteering also can help kids learn important stuff about themselves—like what kinds of things they’re best at and enjoy the most.

A volunteer job can even help some kids decide what they want to do when they grow up. So what are you waiting for? Make a plan to start volunteering today! v

© 1995- 2014 . The Nemours Foundation/KidsHealth®. Reprinted with permission. Reviewed by: Mary L. Gavin, MD, Date reviewed: February 2012

PENSACOLA LITTLE THEATRE CLASSES FOR AGES 4 THROUGH ADULT ,

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

Cookie Dough-Stuffed PB Fudge INGREDIENTS 1 stick butter, softened ¾ cup dark brown sugar 1 Tsp. vanilla 1 cup flour

• • • •

• ½ Tsp. salt • 2 Tbsp. milk • ½ c. mini chocolate chips

DIRECTIONS Cream butter and sugar; add vanilla and mix together.

Add flour and salt and mix thoroughly. (Dough will be crumbly.)

Stir in 2 Tbsp. milk and mini chocolate chips. Cream butter and sugar; add vanilla and mix together.

• • •

FUDGE INGREDIENTS 1 Can (14 oz.) Sweetened Condensed Milk, Divided in Half ¼ Cup Mini Chocolate Chips

• •

• 16 oz. Vanilla Candiquik, Divided in Half • ½ Cup Peanut Butter, Divided in Half

DIRECTIONS Pour ½ can of sweetened condensed milk into a small saucepan and heat slightly over low heat.

Add 8 oz. vanilla Candiquik and ¼ c. peanut butter and stir over low heat until melted and smooth.

Pour into 8 x 8 inch pan that has been sprayed lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Refrigerate until firm.

Once firm, spread cookie dough on top of fudge layer and press down completely.

Repeat fudge steps with remaining fudge ingredients; pour melted mixture over cookie dough layer.

Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips. Refrigerate. Cut into pieces.

• • • • • •

Compliments of Cathy Trochelman, www.lemontreedwelling.com

Banana Split Kabobs YOU NEED 12 strawberries 12 small pineapple pieces 12 small brownie pieces 2 bananas, cut into pieces

• • • •

• whipped cream • chopped peanuts • 6 wooden skewers

DIRECTIONS Assemble each skewer using 2 strawberries, 2 pineapple pieces, 2 banana pieces, and 2 brownie pieces.

Sprinkle with chopped nuts (optional) and dip in whipped cream.

• •

An easy-to-make healthy snack your children will enjoy making and eating!

32 • May+June 2018 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com Compliments of lemontreedwelling.com

ItsYourMagazine.com • EC Parent Magazine • March+April 2018 • 33

Homemade Mother’s Day Pot MATERIALS Apple Barrel® Colors - 2 oz.: white, black, bright yellow Apple Barrel Colors - 8 oz.: pink parfait Folkart® Brush Sets - Stencil Brush Set, Short Handle Plaid® Stencils - Value

• • • •

Packs - Letter Stencils 1-1/2” Old School Plaid Brush Sets - Flats & Rounds Other supplies Large clay pot and saucer

• • •

INSTRUCTIONS Paint clay pot and saucer with Pink Parfait. Let dry.

Squeeze white paint onto paper plate and dip child’s finger into paint. Press fingerprint in a circle pattern to create white flowers as shown. Let dry.

Squeeze bright yellow onto plate and dip child’s thumb into paint. Press thumb in center of flowers as shown. Let dry.

Stencil “I Love U” with black as shown. Let dry.

Paint rim of pot with white, let dry.

• • • • •

e crafts terials for thes Most of the ma on lin e.com . de re d at Pl aid ca n be ea sil y or looking for nd e driving arou Spend less tim fting! cra e tim d more craft supplies an Compliments of www.plaidonline.com

You Are My Sunshine Photo Frame MATERIALS Apple Barrel® Colors - 2 oz.: Cool Blue, white, bright yellow, Parrot Blue Medium flat brush

• •

• Small round brush • Sandpaper • Square wood frame

INSTRUCTIONS Basecoat entire frame with white and let dry.

Paint blue stripes alternating blue colors. Let dry.

Sand stripes to give it a distressed look.

Using a plate or bowl as a pattern trace a circle for the sun as shown. Paint sun with bright yellow. Let dry.

Dip finger into Yellow paint and repeat around sun to create sunrays. Let dry.

Using small round brush and white, personalize with message “You are my Sunshine” and let dry.

• • • • • •

The perfect accessory to help brighten up any room in the house or Mom’s desk at work

34 • May+June 2018 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com Compliments of www.plaidonline.com

MILITARY APPRECIATION MONTH May is officially marked as Military Appreciation Month and is a special month for both those in and out of the military. Each year the President of the United States makes a proclamation reminding Americans of the important role that the U.S. Armed Forces have played in the history and development of our country. Congress designated May as National Military Appreciation Month in 1999 to ensure that the nation was given the chance to publicly show its appreciation for troops past and present.

Not only do we pause on Memorial Day to remember our fallen heroes, but the month also holds several other military anniversaries and events, including Military Spouse Appreciation Day and Armed Forces Day. For this edition, we wanted to write a special note and giant thankyou to all of the military spouses and families who so often are overlooked when we Americans so fervently support our troops. Please remember that these brave and beautiful souls are serving and sacrificing for their country as well! They provide the love, the support, the care, the encouragement, and all of the responsibilities of running the household. They also share in the grief of deployment, war, injury and, yes, death. They are the in-home psychologists who try to explain to the children where their other parent is, why they aren’t there or, sadly, what has happened to them.

They are the cheerleader and chauffeur to the children at all of their school, sports and extracurricular events. They share in the stress of moving from place to place and having to start over with new friends, new stores, new doctors, and more. And they most definitely share all of these things while battling the loneliness and disconnection of not having the person they chose to share all of these life moments with: their life partner, their husband/wife. They are alone, yet they are strong. They are brave, they are courageous, and they are willing to sacrifice their personal well-being for their military spouses and their country. They are the hidden soldiers! Let’s stop taking these amazing people for granted and give them the same praise and reverence that their dedication deserves!

Please join Emerald Coast Parent and the Military Appreciation App as we honor the patriotism, service and sacrifice of the current and former members and their spouses and families of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marines and National Guard. We salute you!

We humbly thank you! v Sponsored by:

MilitaryAppreciation.us

EC Parent Magazine • May+June 2018 • 35

As summer vacation approaches, have you thought about starting family cooking classes at home with your kids?

Enjoy the planning, shopping, preparing, cooking and eating together. Challenge yourself to one week of homemade, healthy meals from scratch—using only fresh fruits, vegetables and spices. No mixes. No packaged, canned or frozen foods. No fast food. No cheating!!

It might seem overwhelming, but before you know it, you will have created memories that will last a lifetime—all while teaching your children the value of healthy choices.

Here is an easy checklist of things to do: • Make your weekly menu • Write a shopping list • Go shopping • Organize and put away the groceries • Prepare your first meal • Set the table • Sit down as a family and eat (no cell phones, tablets or TVs allowed) • Clean up/do the dishes • Take lots of pictures • Plan and look forward to your next cooking adventure—together!

Paperweights MATERIALS Large metal lids Pre-mixed grout A variety of decorations including letters

• • •

• Sponge • Spatula • Spray paint

INSTRUCTIONS Spray paint the lid of your can.

Scoop grout out of the tub with spatula and push it securely into lid.

Use a wet sponge to smooth out the grout.

Carefully push letters, stones, marbles and glass pieces into paperweight.

Use sponge again to remove any excess grout and clean off decorations.

• • • • •

These are great gift ideas for Mother’s Day or Father’s Day. Just change the words as needed!

Trinket Box MATERIALS Colored popsicle sticks Glue Green felt

• • •

INSTRUCTIONS Place 11 popsicle sticks vertically side by side.

Apply glue across the length of a new popsicle stick and secure horizontally to one end of the original 11 popsicle sticks. Repeat on the other side with a second popsicle stick, horizontally. This should create a solid base.

Apply a dot of glue on the 4 ends of the securing 2 popsicle sticks.

Place 2 new sticks vertically.

Continue adding 2 sticks horizontally and vertically until the box is 11 layers high.

Cut green felt to fit and place in the bottom of the box.

• • • • •

36 • May+June 2018 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

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

THE ENDLESS (POSSIBILITIES OF) SUMMER The beginning moments of summer vacation for teenagers evoke the same feeling as when one is being drowned and is finally let up for air.

There is a sense of relief in no longer forcing your body to wake up at 5 am every day after a long night of homework. Students are much happier leaving behind the immense pressure from all the tests from the two previous months and are able to mentally recharge. Additionally, being off of school allows teenagers to grow; we are able to learn more about life around us, whether through traveling to different cultures, spending more time with family members, or learning the ropes of a new job. There are many benefits from straying away from lectures and standardized testing.

Even though some adults see summer vacation as an opportunity for teenagers to run rampant and make bad decisions, in reality, we are figuring out our place in this giant world by undergoing personal growth. A tip I would give to parents is to allow your child time to spend with their friends at sleepovers or concerts.

We are aware of chores and other obligations, but we also need to experience these moments due to the fact that life moves so fast, and soon we will be fresh college students, back into the school flow and the accompanying responsibilities. My closest friend and I have been to a multitude of concerts together, and they are memories I will treasure my whole life.

Traveling is also another amazing way to create special times. Whether it be with friends or as a family, it’s crucial for all kids to be exposed to lifestyles different from their own because it makes us more open-minded

and aware of our world and how others live.

Something I would still very much like to do is travel with a group to a country worse off than mine and help the people there. The more opportunities we have to do things, the more appreciative we become of the life we have. Therefore, a fun family idea would be to spend time together outside of the house.

Large-group sleepovers are also extremely fun and are a way for teenagers to bond with our friends.

All in all, summer vacation provides kids with endless possibilities to both grow and have as much fun as possible before school rolls back around in August. v

Nia

J UNIOR, AGE 16

ItsYourMagazine.com • EC Parent Magazine • May+June 2018 • 37

Resource Guide

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

Crestview | Destin | FWB | Gulf Breeze | Navarre | Niceville/Valparaiso | Pensacola GULFARIUM MARINE ADVENTURE PARK 1010 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, FWB, 243-9046 Delight in watching dolphins leap and sea lions play during spectacular shows! Enjoy educational exhibits and beautiful gulf views.

THE TRACK

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

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

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

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

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nickname, “City of Five Flags.”

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

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

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

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

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

Pensacola Ice Flyers 201 E Gregory St, Pensacola, 466-3111 The Pensacola Ice Flyers are a professional ice-hockey team of the Southern Professional Hockey League. The team played their first season in 2009–2010.

Home games are played at the Pensacola Bay Center, previously home to the ECHL’s Pensacola Ice Pilots from 1996 until their folding in 2008.

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

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

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

Pensacola Museum of Art

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

407 S Jefferson St, Pensacola, 432-6247 The Pensacola Museum of Art is the only art museum in the city of P e nsacola, Florida. It was founded in 1954 by a group of women from the American Association of University Women.

These determined women combined their efforts to create an art center that would exhibit traveling shows, offer art classes for both children and adults, and provide meeting space for members of the community as well as create a forum for lectures, films, and other cultural presentations. They joined forces with others in the community who shared this same vision and formed the Pensacola Art Association.

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

Sam’s Fun City

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

We are healthy and bursting with energy. We fly high and keep it safe. We are Sky Zone.

Wild Willy’s Adventure Park

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

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

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Outdoors Adventures Unlimited 8974 Tomahawk Landing Rd, Milton, 623-6197 Discover the fun of outdoor adventure at Northwest Florida’s premier recreation center!

Situated along the secluded Coldwater Creek, experience nature’s beauty. Relax with us— you’ll be glad you did!

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

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

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

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

Pensacola Aerial Beach Tour

Deep Sea Fishing Party Boat

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

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

Zipline Canopy Tour

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

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

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

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

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

Destin Crab Island Waverunner Dolphin Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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and instruction are included in your trip.

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

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

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

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

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

Live entertainment and a full bar are available to enhance the experience.

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

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

Pontoon Boat Rental with Luther’s Watersports

INSHORE FISHING WITH 30A GUIDE SERVICE

200 & 202 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 650-8733 Pontoon boats are an easy way to enjoy the beautiful Choctawhatchee Bay in Destin.

All the boats are in great shape, reliable, and clean. Cruise around the bay, or just relax at crab island—it’s up to you!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shell Island Eco Sea-fari Tour and Dolphin Encounter 5550 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City, 234-3435 We begin the journey in the historic Grand Lagoon, then collect sea shells at Shell Island!

The boat will remain at the dock while you explore the island.

You will have an hour at your leisure to swim, go shelling, explore, picnic, or just relax and enjoy the beautiful and pristine uninhabited island!

Small-Group Dolphin and Snorkel Tour

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

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

CHARLIE’S BURGER BAR

Snorkel and Dolphin Excursion on Destin’s Original Sea Blaster

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

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

Snorkeling equipment is included.

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

Sunset Dolphin Encounter Aboard Captain Anderson III

Multiple locations throughout area

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

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

FIREHOUSE SUBS

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

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

TROPICAL SMOOTHIE CAFE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cheddar’s

Chicken Salad Chick

7173 N Davis Hwy, Pensacola, 484-5203

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

CJ’s Kitchen and Grille

Donut Hole Bakery & Café

2100 W Garden St, Pensacola, 435-9543

635 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 837-8824

Flora-Bama Lounge

Johnny Rockets

17401 Perdido Key Dr, Pensacola, 492-0611

4348 Legendary Dr, Destin, 837-0005

Grover’s Fingers and Wings

LANDSHARK’S PIZZA

9418 N Davis Hwy, Pensacola, 477-7172

300 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 424-6743

Jackson’s Steakhouse

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

Shakes Frozen Custard

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Buffalo Wild Wings

400 S Palafox St, Pensacola, 469-9898

Magnolia

1065 Hwy 98, Destin, 269-1111

2907 E Cervantes St, Pensacola, 912-6196

Smashburger

O’Briens Bistro

4283 Legendary Dr, Destin, 424-7600

4350 Bayou Blvd, Pensacola, 477-9120

Wingstop

Saltgrass Steak House

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

905 E Gregory St, Pensacola, 434-3600

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

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

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

Yumi Buffet

Barbecue/Southern

Creole

Buck’s Smoke House

790 on the Gulf

303 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 837-3600

2996 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, 650-4853

Smoke on the Water

4260 Legendary Dr, Destin, 424-5795

Mary’s Kitchen

314 Bayshore Dr, Niceville, 678-2233

Mellow Mushroom

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

Sonny’s Real Pit BBQ

French Quarter Grill

2680 S Ferdon Blvd, Crestview, 683-8886

The Tipsy Pig Bar and Grill

Jackacudas

138 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, FWB, 301-0515

Louisiana Lunchbox

34904 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, 650-1288

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

Rib Shack of Navarre

821 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 650-3945

9532 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, 936-4244

Lotus Thai

Five Sisters Blues Cafe

Thai Delights Restaurant

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

421 W Belmont St, Pensacola, 912-4856

Siam Garden Café

KC JOHN’S BBQ

334 N Eglin Pkwy, FWB, 862-7426

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

11117 Lillian Hwy, Pensacola, 417-2965

Sonny’s Bar-B-Q

364 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze, 932-6882

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

Makong Thai Restaurant

Voodoo BBQ and Grill

Shang Hai Restaurant

1935 Ortega St, Navarre, 939-6950

Peking House 8224 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, 936-9898

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

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

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

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

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

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

La Famiglia Ristorante Italiano and Pizza

Café Bienville

714 Howell Rd, Niceville, 678-2604

New Dragon Mongolian Grill and Buffet

104 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 460-2990

302 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 797-8252

925 Beal Pkwy, FWB, 314-0717

56 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 424-3507

Crust Pizzeria

1741 E 9 Mile Rd, Pensacola, 912-8111

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

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

CUBS CRAWFISH 11125 Lillian Hwy, Pensacola, 456-7551

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

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

Caribbean

7000 Pine Forest Rd, Pensacola, 361-1130

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

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

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

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

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

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

Indian

960 Hwy 98 E, Destin, 650-6420

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Passage to India

Franco’s Italian Restaurant

3102 E Cervantes, Pensacola, 433-8887

523 E Gregory St, Pensacola, 433-9200

Taste of India

Georgio’s Pizza

810 E Gregory St, Pensacola, 439-3005

3000 E Cervantes St, Pensacola, 432-5996

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

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

TUSCAN OVEN

Johnny O’Quigley’s

4801 N 9th Ave, Pensacola, 484-6836

1025 Industrial Dr, Crestview, 306-1012

Dominic’s Pizzeria

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

Italian

177 John Sims Pkwy, Valparaiso, 389-2131

Jamaican

Yum’s Chinese

The Caribbean Pot

Mia’s Italian Restaurant

Bamboo’s Jamaican Restaurant

1620 Airport Blvd, Pensacola, 477-2999

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

2203 S Ferdon Blvd, Crestview, 682-8333

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

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Lana’s Jamaican House Cafe

La Paz Restaurante and Cantina

Gilligan’s Seafood Restaurant

THE FISH HOUSE

7700 W Fairfield Dr, Pensacola, 453-2144

950 Gulf Shore Dr, Destin, 837-2247

530 Hwy 98 E, Destin, 650-4400

600 S Barracks St, Pensacola, 470-0003

Mediterranean

Ricon Boriqua

LULU’S DESTIN

538 Eglin Pkwy NE, FWB, 863-3323

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

Zoe’s Kitchen

Sabor A Mexico

4357 Legendary Dr, Destin, 650-6525

El Paso Navarre

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

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

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

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

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

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

Taco Town

Hummus

113 Partin Dr, Niceville, 729-8646

3012 N 9th Ave, Pensacola, 332-6709

Miguel’s Mexican Food

Jordan Valley Cafe

2 E 9 Mile Rd, Pensacola, 607-7121

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

524 South B St, Pensacola, 4323313

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

AJ’s on the Bayou

THE OAR HOUSE

200 Eglin Pkwy, NE, FWB, 864-4694

1000 S Pace Blvd, Pensacola, 549-4444

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

Sam’s Seafood and Steaks

Old Bay Steamer

The Fishing Hole

102 Santa Rosa Blvd, FWB, 664-2795

15 Brent Ln, Pensacola, 912-6664

Rick’s Crab Trap

303 Glen Ave, Valparaiso, 7290406

178 Eglin Pkwy, FWB, 664-0110

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

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

420 S A St, Pensacola, 432-6626

Doc’s Oyster Bar

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

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

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

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

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

L J Schooner’s Dockside Restaurant and Oyster Bar

14059 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, 650-1881

290 Yacht Club Dr, Niceville, 8975400

Azteca Mexican Restaurant

Dewey Destin

Atlas Oyster House

789 N Ferdon Blvd, Crestview, 682-8206

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

600 S Barracks St, Pensacola, 437-1961

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Joe Patti’s

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FUN GUIDE CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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

There will be exclusive drink specials all night long. For more information, visit www.emeraldgrande.com.

Memorial Day Kickoff Celebration

Sat, May 26–Sun, May 27 – HarborWalk Village (7:00p.m.)

Celebrate Memorial Day and kick off summer at HarborWalk Village. There will be live music all weekend long and fireworks over the Destin Harbor. For more information, visit www.destinchamber.com.

Memorial Day Celebration

Sat, May 26–Mon, May 28 – Baytowne Wharf (6:00p.m.)

Seasonal Cinco de Mayo at HarborWalk Village

Sat, May 5 – HarborWalk Village (1:00p.m.)

Enjoy an afternoon of free family fun at HarborWalk Village in celebration of Cinco de Mayo! This event will feature Destin Harbor’s largest piñata and additional activities such as kids’ crafts, face painting, and a stilt walker making balloon animals! For more information, visit www.emeraldgrande.com.

Cinco de Mayo Pub Crawl

Sat, May 5–Sun, May 6 – HarborWalk Village (6:00p.m.)

HarborWalk Village is throwing a fiesta on the Destin Harbor! Head to the HarborWalk Village for their annual Cinco de Mayo Pub Crawl.

Kick off summer at Baytowne Wharf during their Memorial Day Celebration. There will be live music, kids’ activities, and a patriotic firework show Sunday evening. On Monday, the Sandestin Veterans will present a Memorial Day program in honor of our veterans. For more information, visit www.baytownewharf.com.

The Arts

2018 NWF Ballet Student Concert Sat, May 19 – Mattie Kelly Arts Center

It is that time of year for the annual Northwest Florida Ballet Student Concert! This concert is the culmination of the NWF Ballet’s community class season. Tickets are on sale now and all seating is general admission. For tickets and more information, visit www.mattiekellyartscenter.org.

NFSO Piano Recital – Chloe Zhang Sat, May 19 – Mattie Kelly Arts Center

Chloe Zhang has been lauded with numerous competition prizes and honors, including first prizes at the European Piano Teachers’ Association International Piano Competition, the Haiziman Asia Piano Competition, the Xinghai Cup Piano Competition, and more!

Zhang will be performing at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center. Tickets are $20. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.mattiekellyartscenter.org.

Runs, Walks & More 15th Annual Bob Hope Memorial Charity Golf Classic

Stars of Tomorrow

Fri, May 4 – Mattie Kelly Arts Center The amazing talents of the youth concerto competition winners of the NFSO Guild-sponsored competition appear as guest artists with the NFSO in the season finale concert that also includes a performance by the Northwest Florida Symphony Chorale. For tickets and more information, visit www.mattiekellyartscenter.org.

Fri, May 18 and Sat, May 19 – Niceville (10:30a.m.)

The Emerald Coast’s premier golf event is here and taking place at Eglin Golf Course to benefit the Air Force Enlisted Village. Enjoy two days of golf, boxed lunches and an awards lunch, continental breakfast, use of the range, refreshments, goody bags, and a commemorative coin! For more information, visit www.fwbchamber.org.

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30th Annual ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival Sat, May 12–Sun, May 13 – Grand Boulevard (10:00a.m.)

Head to Grand Boulevard Town Center for a wonderful day of art and fun. ArtQuest provides an opportunity to view and purchase original art from over 150 artists, listen to live music, and enjoy great food! For more information, visit www.destinchamber.com.

to the public. For more information, visit www. baytownewharf.com.

63rd Annual Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival

Fri, June 1–Sat, June 2 – Fort Walton Beach The 63rd annual Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival is back! Get your pirate gear ready and prepare for a weekend of pirate costumes, re-enactments, fun, and much more! For more information, visit www.fwbchamber.org.

63rd Annual Billy Bowlegs Torchlight Parade

Mon, June 4 – Fort Walton Beach (7:00p.m.)

Get ready to catch some beads and have a great evening at the 63rd annual Billy Bowlegs Torchlight Parade! Bring the little ones for a family-friendly pirate-themed parade. For more information, visit www.fwbchamber.org.

Chamber Golf Classic

Fri, May 18 – Pensacola (11:00a.m.)

Get ready for a fun day of golf at the A.C. Read Golf Course. The 2018 Chamber Golf Classic features a 4-person scramble tournament format.

There will be a shotgun start at noon at the 18-hole tournament followed by a reception, awards presentation, and great prizes! For more information, visit www.pensacolachamber.com.

33rd Annual Eglin Memorial Day Gate-to-Gate Run Mon, May 28 – Eglin AFB (7:00a.m.)

Head to Eglin Air Force Base on Memorial Day for a 4.4-mile run/walk. As one of Northwest Florida’s oldest Memorial Day traditions, the competitive race is open to runners of all ages and skill levels. There will also be a free kids’ run after the start of the main race.

Flowers will be provided for each runner to drop at the Veterans’ Memorial along the route, and there will be a post-race party held at the finish line with live music and free refreshments for runners, walkers and teams to enjoy! For more information, visit www. destinchamber.com.

Sounds Fun 61st Annual Blessing of the Fleet Thurs, May 10 – Destin (4:00p.m.)

Head to Brotula’s in Destin for the 61st annual Blessing of the Fleet. Local pastors will gather to bless charter fishing boats and others who earn their living from the sea, for safe passage and bountiful catches. For more information, visit www.destinchamber.com.

12th Annual Peace Officers Memorial Ceremony

Fri, May 11 – Fort Walton Beach (6:45a.m.)

The Fort Walton Beach Police Department is hosting their 12th annual Peace Officers Memorial Ceremony, to honor the members of the law enforcement profession who have given their lives in the line of duty. There will be a special tribute for those who did so in Escambia, Walton, Santa Rosa, and Okaloosa Counties in the past 20 years. This ceremony is open to the public. For more information, visit www.fwbchamber.org.

International Festival

Tues, June 5 – Fort Walton Beach (11:00a.m.)

2018 Billy Bowlegs Poker Run Sat, May 12 – Destin (10:00a.m.)

The Landing in Fort Walton Beach will be the location of this year’s International Festival!

Enjoy live music, food and family-friendly activities!. Some of the proceeds will benefit One Hopeful Place and the Okaloosa County Special Olympics organization. For more information, visit www.fwbchamber.org.

Get ready for this year’s Billy Bowlegs Poker Run! There will be stops along the Emerald Coast from the bayous to the harbor, with a final stop at LuLu’s in Destin. This event will benefit the Emerald Coast Autism Center. For more information, visit www.destinchamber.com.

Bubbly Baytowne

Thurs, May 17 – Baytowne Wharf (5:00p.m.)

Head to Baytowne Wharf for an evening full of free champagne and shopping! This event is free and for ages 21 and up only. For more information, visit www.baytownewharf.com.

The Little Pirates Parade

Sat, May 19 – Fort Walton Beach (9:00a.m.)

Head to the First City Bank in Fort Walton Beach where Captain Billy Bowlegs and Krewe will judge children’s pirate costumes and float presentations. For more information or to register, visit www.fwbchamber.org.

9th Annual Little Black Dress Party Sat, May 19 – Sandestin (6:00p.m.)

The Little Black Dress Party is back again for the 9th year–Hollywood style! This fun-filled event is an evening dedicated to celebrating good health and raising funds for the community. There will be dinner, dancing, auctions and entertainment. All event proceeds will benefit the White-Wilson Community Foundation. For more information, visit www. destinchamber.com.

Baytowne LIVE

Tues, May 22–Thurs, May 31 – Baytowne Wharf (7:00p.m.)

Head to Baytowne to enjoy the musical stylings of local artists. Concerts are free and open

46 • May+June 2018 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Reoccurring Local Hydroflight Mondays

Every Monday – Baytowne Wharf Enjoy shows from fly-board extraordinaire Ben Merrell over the lagoon! Watch as he soars to the sky and makes waves at Baytowne Wharf!

For more information and show times, visit www.baytownewharf.com.

Boomin’ Tuesday

Every Tuesday – Baytowne Wharf (7:00p.m.)

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

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Fat Tuesday Parade

Every Tuesday – HarborWalk Village (8:30p.m.)

At HarborWalk Village, Fat Tuesday is every Tuesday! Watch as the HarborWalk Village transforms into the Big Easy with dazzling floats, colorful costumes, street performers, live music, and beads! For more information, visit www.destinchamber.com.

Magical Thursday

Every Thursday – Baytowne Wharf (7:00p.m.)

Watch as featured pirate Captain Davy takes you on an adventure with two magic shows on stage. For show times and more information, visit www.baytownewharf.com.

Farmers’ Market at Grand Boulevard

Every Saturday – Miramar Beach (9:00a.m.)

Start your Saturday at Grand Boulevard Farmers’ Market! There will be fresh, from-thefarm produce, local seafood, homemade dips and salsas, organic juices, homemade soaps, and more! There will even be organic pet treats for your furry friends. For more information, visit www.destinchamber.com.

Rock the Docks Concert Series

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

HarborWalk Village is bringing the tunes! Every Saturday at the Village enjoy a free concert and rock out on the Destin Harbor. For more information, visit www.destinchamber.com.

Sunday Cinema

Every Sunday – Baytowne Wharf (7:30p.m.)

Grab a lawn chair or a blanket and head to the Events Plaza lawn at Baytowne Wharf to enjoy a movie. This event is free. For more information and movie listings, visit www.baytownewharf.com.

Volunteer Opportunity Place

Contact CC Fearson at 850-659-3190.

Socks

Contact Nikole Wood at 850-863-8999.

PAWS

Contact Alicia Sikes at 850-243-1525.

Salvation Army

Contact Lisa Martinez at 850-243-4531.

GulfWind Paddle & Surf Wednesday Night BOTE Board Demo Event

Every Wednesday – Santa Rosa Beach (6:00p.m.)

Socialize with other paddleboard enthusiasts every Wednesday evening and demo ride the entire fleet of BOTE boards. For more information, call Steve with GulfWind Paddle & Surf at 850-200-8375.

Wednesday Night Concert Series

Every Wednesday – Baytowne Wharf (7:00p.m.)

Enjoy the great weather and live entertainment. The concert series features local and regional talent on the Events Plaza stage.

For more information, visit www.baytownewharf.com.

Red, White and Blue Hero Celebration

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

Head to HarborWalk Village to celebrate our American heroes. There will be a presentation of the colors, ceremony celebration, WWII vintage airshow, live entertainment, and fireworks. For more information, visit www.destinchamber.com.

Habitat for Humanity

Contact Mark McEnaney at 850-685-0686.

Florosa Fire Department

Contact Tom Peele at 850-581-2900.

VFW

Contact Harvey Eckoff at 850-244-3834.

Goodwill

Contact John at 850-837-8516.

Destin Community Center

Contact Lisa Firth at 850-654-5184.

Waterfront Rescue Mission

Contact Tina or Sharron at 850-244-2726.

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

Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge

Contact Susan Leivelle at 850-650-1880.

Boys & Girls Club

Contact Rita Cummins at 850-862-1332.

WHY VOLUNTEER? Part of being a great volunteer is loving what you’re doing.

Find something that you’re passionate about or something that inspires you, and then find a need in your community.

There are dozens of reasons why you should volunteer - you just need to find the one that feels right.

20 GREAT REASONS TO VOLUNTEER 1. Help others 2. Make a difference 3. Find purpose 4. Enjoy a meaningful conversation 5. Connect with your community 6. Feel involved 7. Contribute to a cause that you care about 8. Use your skills in a productive way 9. Develop new skills 10. Meet new people 11. Explore new areas of interest 12. Meet good people 13. Impress your mom 14. Impress yourself 15. Expand your horizons 16. Get out of the house 17. Make new friends 18. Strengthen your resume 19. Feel better about yourself 20. [ Your favorite reason ] For more information about volunteering, visit VolunteerMatch at https://www.volunteermatch.org/

ItsYourMagazine.com • EC Parent Magazine • May+June 2018 • 47

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