2016 Summer Fun Guide

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HOW TO USE CLOUDS TO PREDICT WEATHER

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HELP KIDS GET READY FOR FALL SPORTS SEASON

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5 KILLER IDEAS FOR LAST MINUTE TEXAS VACATIONS

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THE AMAZING MONTH OF JUNE

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ALWAYS PRACTICE SUMMER SUN SAFETY

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7 TEXAS TOURIST ATTRACTIONS THAT ARE PERFECT FOR KID-FREE GETAWAYS

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ICE CREAM TRUCK HISTORY

Cover Design: Merrie Nance | Graphic Designers: Renee Blue, Merrie Nance, Amy Casto, Jonathan Tubbs & William Greenfield

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SUMMER FUN GUIDE

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How to use clouds to predict weather M eteorologists rely on electronic equipment and their knowledge of weather patterns to provide forecasts each and every day.

But weather can be unpredictable, and even the most reliable weather prognosticator can sometimes get it wrong.

Novices can try their hands at predicting the weather by interpreting the environmental signs around them.

If they grow in number and almost cover the sky, look for rain within 24 hours.

Earth science is a part of many elementary school curriculums. Current students and adults can use what they learn or learned about cloud types and formations to determine if rain is coming or if they can leave their umbrellas at home. Clouds can say a lot about both the current weather and what’s to come.

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According to Weather Wiz Kids, clouds are formed from very tiny droplets of water or ice crystals.

Because the droplets are so small and light, they can float in the air. The characteristics and look of clouds are dictated by temperature, height, wind, and the amount of water vapor in the air, as well as the influence of other air masses.

Clouds can say a lot about the weather, and weather prognosticators have relied on clouds for centuries to help make their predictions. Understanding clouds and what makes each cloud type unique can help amateur

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meteorologists impress their friends and avoid being caught in inclement weather.

Altocumulus

These are mid-level clouds that look like a layer of white and gray cotton. The presence of these clouds may indicate rain is on the way.

Cumulus clouds

These clouds can look like cauliflower in shape. While they’re usually seen in fair weather, they can produce short spurts of rain.

Cirrus

Cirrus clouds are high, wispy and feathery and found above 20,000 feet. Cirrus clouds can indicate that a storm system is approaching within a day or so. This may be especially true if cirrus clouds are showing tails. According to The Homeschool Scientist, seeing a few cirrus clouds in the sky means

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SUMMER FUN GUIDE

that fair weather is on the way. If they grow in number and almost cover the sky, look for rain within 24 hours.

Cumulonimbus

These towering clouds are good harbingers of rainy weather. They tend to form when thunderstorms are imminent. They also may accompany strong storms that produce hail, wind and even tornadoes.

Stratus

Low-lying, flat and gray, stratus clouds are usually seen during rain, snow or misty conditions.

Cloud watching can be an interesting hobby and a great way to grow acquainted with the workings of weather systems.

Children can take chances predicting the weather based on cloud formations to see if their predictions come true.

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Help kids get ready for Fall sports season S ummer is a season of relaxation, especially for school-aged children who are not yet old enough to work.

Such youngsters no doubt enjoy the chance to spend summer days lounging poolside or at the beach, all without a care in the world or any homework to complete.

Though summer is synonymous with R&R, parents of young athletes who hope to compete in scholastic athletics when the school year begins in autumn may need to take steps to ensure their kids aren’t at risk of injury once the curtain comes up on fall sports season.

Examine and replace equipment if necessary.

The right equipment can protect kids from injury and help them realize their full athletic potential. But damaged or outdated equipment can increase kids’ risk of injury.

Examine kids’ equipment long before fall sports season begins so you have time to bargain hunt should anything need to be replaced.

Schedule a physical for your child.

Many school districts mandate that athletes receive and pass

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physicals before they can compete. Speak with the athletic director at your child’s school to learn the guidelines that govern athletic physicals.

The physical will need to be conducted by a predetermined date, but you may also need the physical to be conducted after a certain date for it to be considered valid. Speak with your child’s physician if any problems are found during the physical.

Let kids heal.

Kids’ schedules are busier than ever before, and many youngsters play several sports during the school year.

Summer vacation may be the only extended period all year that youngsters’ bodies get to heal. While it’s important that kids stay physically active throughout the summer, make sure they don’t overdo it, as you should emphasize the importance of rest.

Gradually get back in the swing of things. While rest gives kids’ bodies a chance to heal and

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continued from pg. 5 develop, it’s important that young athletes stay in shape over the summer.

As the fall sports season draws near, help kids gradually get back in the swing of things. Tryouts tend to be physically demanding, so kids who have not lifted a finger all summer may be at risk of injury or missing the cut.

Let kids ease back into regular exercise to make sure they are not starting from scratch come their first tryout.

Speak with coaches.

Coaches can be great assets to parents who want to make sure their youngsters enjoy the summer without sacrificing their chances of making the team in the fall. Speak with kids’ coaches to determine if there is any area your son or daughter can work on over the summer to improve his or her chances of making the team. Make sure kids are the ones leading the charge to improve their games; otherwise, they may feel pressured into doing so and that can take away the fun of playing sports.

Scholastic athletes should take advantage of the opportunity to relax and recover that summer presents. But athletes who hope to compete in the fall can still work with their parents to ensure they’re ready once the school year and sports season begins.

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5

Killer Ideas For Last Minute

Texas Vacations

By Nicole M Ramirez ooking to plan a trip in Texas for next week or month and don’t know where to start?

Texas is home to farmlands galore, bustling cities, national parks and charming small towns, making plenty of options to explore for that perfect getaway. Here are 5 killer ideas for last minute Texas vacations.

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Take a trip back in time in San Antonio San Antonio lies in south-central Texas as one of the major cities and home of famous historical landmarks.

The San Antonio River Walk is a

sometimes bustling, sometimes quaint place to stroll for shopping, dining and bar hopping or just taking in the scenic view of the San Antonio River banks.

For history buff and sightseers, check out the San Antonio Missions of the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries.

Here you’ll find the UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Historical Park where four of the five Spanish frontier missions in San Antonio have been preserved. For a little bit of history mixed with photo-worthy Spanish Colonial architecture, you can’t go wrong at this site. Important to note: the Alamo is at a location

SUMMER FUN GUIDE

Torch of Friendship Statue in Downtown San Antonio, Texas.

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more downtown San Antonio from this site, but still worth a visit if you have time.

Since San Antonio is a major city, finding a last-minute place to stay will be easiest looking up your favorite online hotel finders or chains that you trust.

Go on a hiking expedition in Palo Duro Canyon Visit the country’s second largest canyon in this state park for breathtaking views, adventurous hiking expeditions and an optional cabin retreat stay, all totally doable for a summer weekend getaway.

For a few hours hike of 5.75 miles round-trip, follow the signature

visit the Civilian Conservation Corps Trail where you’ll find the only trail descending to the canyon floor from the park rim.

Try your luck at reserving one of the several cabins available, like the lighthouse cabin for an on-site experience waking up amidst the striking views of the park. Onsite camping is also sometimes available in a number of spots or look to the numerous budget hotels close to the park if you’re rolling in super last minute.

Experience local life in Brenham, Washington County Brenham is home to the Texas

Admire the peacocks at Mayfield Park followed by the show of 1.5 million bats that emerge from the Congress Bridge at dusk. landmark Lighthouse Trail where you’ll find the rock formation you’ve probably seen in most photos of Palo Duro Canyon. For a challenge,

favorite Blue Bell ice cream, historical homes, and immersive farm life retreat stays. Though it may not be on the global map for

The W amazing month of June

ith so many exciting month-long events, temperate weather for people who live in areas of the world where summer is about to begin and special occasions like Father’s Day and school graduations, June is a popular month. June is the sixth month of the year according to the Gregorian calendar, which much of the world relies on, but it wasn’t always that way. According to the early Roman calendar,

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Texas vacations, this charming scenic area of Washington County will give you a taste of true Texas life as it is now and as it once was.

Stop in to the beloved Blue Bell Creamery for a scoop (or two) of your favorite classic flavor and hug an Alpaca at Peeka Ranch Alpacas.

Immerse yourself in historical farm life in the house of the last Texan president at the Barrington Living History Farm, followed by a relaxing wine-tour among one of Washington County’s wineries and vineyards.

There are plenty of charming places to stay from farm retreats to bed and breakfasts in historical houses among lush Texan greenery. Call around and look for last-minute rates, as Texas locals are known to be friendly and accommodating.

Swim, eat and relax in artsy Austin Austin is one of the top music destinations in the country, known for its famous world-class music festivals Austin City Limits and South by Southwest. Many know Austin serves as one of the ultimate year-round destinations in Texas, but there’s plenty to do in city limits and outside festival limits when exploring last minute Texas vacations.

Swimming holes like Barton Springs and Hamilton Pool are worth checking out for a day trip awing at nature while swimming during hot summer months. Admire the peacocks at Mayfield Park followed by the show of 1.5 million bats that emerge from the Congress Bridge at dusk. Take your pick of the plethora of Tex-Mex favorites and see what’s playing at the Alamo June was the fourth month and only had 29 days. The number of days was increased to 30 when Caesar reformed the calendar.

While many people believe that the month of June was named for the Roman goddess Juno, who is the wife of Jupiter, others have said that its name actually came from the Latin word iuniors, which means, “the younger ones.”

This is the opposite of majors, or elders, from which May’s name is believed to have originated.

Summer fun guide

Drafthouse, dubbed the best movie theater in the world by Quentin Tarantino.

See if you can find one of the eclectic and artistic style homestays Austin is known for on a trusted site you frequent.

Find a place in your heart for Hidden Hill Country Deep in the heart of Texas and just west from Austin lies hidden hill country where you’ll find two-lane roads and small towns of rivers and lakes, scenic highways, cypress trees and really good pie.

Sleep in an herb farm where you’ll eat dishes created using the produce and herbs on property for the true farm-to-table experience.

Enjoy the windy scenic roads of Highway 16 for road trip lovers and try some homemade apple pie at the Love Creek Apple Store in Medina. Kayak down the Medina River to avoid the crowds at Guadalupe River and revel in the natural magic of the bald cypress trees.

For staying, see if there’s room at the luxurious adult getaway Travaasa Resort and Spa for allinclusive and a la carte packages for the ultimate pampering escape.

For more on last minute vacation ideas, go to visitbrenhamtexas.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles. com/expert/Nicole_M_ Ramirez/2228472

People lucky enough to be born in June enjoy some of the nicest temperatures of the year. June’s main birthstone is the pearl, but alexandrite andmoonstone also have been used. The official flower of June is the rose, and they often bloom in abundance this time of year. In addition to National Dairy Month, National Candy Month, Flag Day and many other observations, June is one of the most popular months for young couples to tie the knot.

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Always practice summer sun safety W

hen the weather is warm, many people take time to relax at the beach or poolside. While such relaxation can provide a welcome break from busy schedules, it’s important that men, women and children prioritize protecting their skin when spending time in the sun.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, basal cell carcinoma, or BCC, is the most common form of skin cancer. The American Cancer Society notes that each year there are more new cases of skin cancer in the United States than the combined incidences of cancers of the breast, prostate, lung and colon. Despite that prevalence, many people still engage in risky behaviors in the name of outdoor enjoyment. Being safe in the sun won’t take anything away from enjoyable outdoor activities, but exercising such caution will help summer revelers reduce their risk for skin cancer and other conditions.

Know the risks of UV exposure Sunlight is needed to engage vitamin D production in the body, but too much sun exposure can do more harm than good.

Ultraviolet, or UV, rays from the sun and other sources, such as tanning beds, are the

primary cause of skin cancer. Exposure also can lead to sunburns, premature aging/ wrinkling and eye damage.

Use only broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen Look for a sunblock product that boasts an SPF of at least 30. The FDA requires any sunscreen with an SPF below 15 to carry a warning that it only protects against sunburn, not skin cancer or skin aging. Find a sunscreen that works against UVA and UVB rays as well. UVA rays are mostly responsible for contributing to skin cancer and premature aging. Reapply frequently, especially when swimming or engaging in activities that cause sweating.

Know the difference between water-resistant and waterproof sunscreens Manufacturers are no longer allowed to claim that their sunscreens are waterproof or sweatproof. A sunscreen may be able to repel water for a short time, but it should be reapplied when leaving the water or when spending long stretches in the water.

Cover up whenever possible It may seem counterintuitive in hot weather, but covering up can be beneficial to the skin and actually keep a person cooler. Wear wide-brimmed hats, longsleeve tops and light-colored pants.

Some materials are made with reflective properties, while others actually boast their own SPF. Summer fun does not need to be threatened by overexposure to the sun. By exercising caution, everyone can spend quality time in the great outdoors all summer long.

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SUMMER FUN GUIDE

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perfect kid-free getaway:

1. Texas Bluebonnet Festival in Burnet A small town northwest of Austin, the State Legislature has declared Burnet to be the Bluebonnet capital of Texas, and with good reason.

Every second weekend in April, Burnet plays host to a fantastic

7 Texas Tourist Attractions That Are Perfect for

Kid-Free Getaways

By Kaitlyn LaPenn hildren are true blessings in life, but not everyone wants to vacation with them. When you are searching for that perfect

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kid-free getaway, you want to know which Texas tourist attractions are ideal for those traveling sanskids. Take a look at these seven attractions that would make for the

4. Texas Bluebonnet Wine Trail, Southeast Texas Most people associate wineries with California, but Texas has some of the finest wine in the country. Grab yourself a car, hop in and experience the Texas Bluebonnet Wine Trail in Southeast, Texas. The trail features some of the best wineries in the State, and includes locations in Brenham, Burton, and Plantersville.

As the fourth largest city in the United States, Houston boasts some of the most 5. Galveston Island fantastic Texas tourist attractions It is true that you will find plenty of folks who bring their children to the for adults Galveston surf, but there will be just as many couples without children, vacationing. enjoying the romantic scene. Rent bluebonnet festival, complete with food, live music and dancing. And bluebonnets! With late night Texas concerts, this place is perfect for the couple looking to experience Texas living at its finest.

2. The Riverwalk, San Antonio Most people know the Alamo is located in San Antonio. But a lot of people are surprised to learn that San Antonio is one of the most romantic large cities in Texas. With fantastic live music and Mexican food, the Riverwalk lights up at night with stars, lights and boat rides.

Don’t forget to check out Mi Tierra’s Restaurant for the best margaritas in town.

3. Bed & Breakfast, Brenham Brenham, Texas is a true Texas tourist attraction, as it is a quaint country town, complete with the most cozy Bed-and-Breakfasts in the state. Contact the City’s Chamber of Commerce for a listing of all the unique Texas Bed-

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and-Breakfasts. While you are in Brenham, don’t forget to check out the wineries, live music, and Bluebell Creamery.

SUMMER FUN GUIDE

a tiny beach house and enjoy the beach and the strand. As one of the oldest ports, Galveston Island is a fantastic place to explore, eat and drink.

6. Houston, Texas As the fourth largest city in the United States, Houston boasts some of the most fantastic Texas tourist attractions for adults vacationing.

With the symphony, ballet, and play houses in Houston, you will never run out of things to do and see. Both the art and music scenes are hopping, and adventurous day trips, like Washington County, and LaGrange kolaches, are just a few hours’ car ride away.

7. Cat Spring As a small German community, Cat Spring is just east of Houston and just west of Brenham. With beautiful rivers nearby, the Bellville meat market just minutes away, and some fantastic hiking in the area, avid naturists will love this charming and quiet town.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/ expert/Kaitlyn_LaPenn/2213699

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Ice cream truck history

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n a sweltering day, few things bring relief as immediately as a favorite frozen treat. The United States leads the world in ice cream consumption, with an average of 26 liters per person consumed per year.

ice cream novelties that could be enjoyed on a stick, including the Good Humor bar. Burt wanted an easy way to deliver the treat into the hands of hungry kids, so he commissioned refrigerator trucks and hired drivers who looked pristine and safe to deliver the treats to neighborhood children. To entice the youngsters outside, the drivers rang a bell so kids would investigate the noise. Eventually the bell and standard routes helped families know when to expect the ice cream man.

To entice the youngsters outside, the drivers rang a bell so kids would investigate the noise.

Ice cream has been around for quite some time, and it is believed ancient Greeks ate a crude form of the dessert as early as the 5th century B.C. While ice cream parlors, dessert shops and supermarket freezers are popular places to sample favorite flavors, ice cream also can be purchased from ice cream trucks.

The tinkling of the ice cream truck music box and the sight of that dessert haven on wheels is enough to send any child (and many adults) into sensory overload. Some of the early precursors to the modern day ice cream truck were ice and ice cream sandwich carts that gained popularity in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

Confectioner and visionary Harry Burt was instrumental in developing the ice cream truck. Burt invented

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Early ice cream trucks may have sold prepackaged treats, but they eventually broadened their offerings. Some turned into mobile ice cream shops, offering soft-serve or hard ice cream in everything from sundaes to cones to shakes.

Many ice cream truck businesses are independently-owned seasonal businesses. The trucks are seen when the first warm days arrive, and many can still be seen patrolling neighborhood streets into late fall.

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