Chesapeake Family Life Magazine August 2018 by Chesapeake Family Life Magazine

FrEE| August | june 2018 FrEE

Don’t miss

Open through September 9

Programs and exhibits at Port Discovery are made possible in part by the Citizens of Baltimore County and by the Howard County Arts Council through a grant from Howard County Government. Dinosaurs Land of Ice and Fire ©2018 Minnesota Children’s Museum.

chesapeakefamily.com

AUGUST 2018

August | ChesapeakeFamily.com

in this issue 32

Features

Family Fun

15 / FAMILY FAVORITES

32/ STARGAZING

Head outside, or stay in to learn about the solar system.

Readers picks for great places to eat, play, shop and learn.

Stay Inspired

18 / CAR TALK

These top 2018 car models are all highly rated for safety and family friendliness.

40/ CHESAPEAKE BAY BALLOON AND WINE FESTIVAL

The name says it all, it’s going to be awesome.

We’re giving you 100+ ideas for awesome summer fun! Follow along at Chesapeake Family.com/100days-of-summer

DEPARTMENTS 05 / EDITOR'S LETTER

In summer’s home stretch, we celebrate this month’s Family Favorites.

New & Notable

34 / GET OUT!

Events, activities and fun things to do this month

07 / People: Captain Dee-Fense 08 / Education: Navigating Financial Aid 10 / Health: Vaccination Clinics for Middle Schoolers

42 / EVENTS WORTH A BABYSITTER

Fun for grown-ups in August

11 / Lifestyle: Road Trip Fun

AUGUST 2018

chesapeakefamily.com

Y Before & After School Enrichment

INSPIRING YOUNG MINDS Register Now for the New School Year YAFTERSCHOOLCARE.ORG

Vol. 28 No. 11 PUBLISHER Donna Jefferson ext. 200 djefferson@jecoannapolis.com EDITOR Ann Levelle

Conveniently located in 16 Anne Arundel County Elementary Schools. See locations and register at yafterschoolcare.org.

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Joyce Heid CALENDAR EDITOR Brittaney Sard calendar@jecoannapolis.com

Complimentary Y Family Membership INCLUDED with full-time enrollment! The Y in Central Maryland

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Brady Holt Carolyn Jeffries Katie Riley Kelly Szalankiewicz ART DIRECTOR Jenny Patrick C. ext. 202 artdirector@jecoannapolis.com AD DESIGN Jessica Kannegieser OFFICE MANAGER Claire Kovacs ext. 204 ADVERTISING Kelly Crew ext. 228 kellycrew@jecoannapolis.com Jen Jeffries ext. 207 jen@jecoannapolis.com

www.specialbeginnings.com

410.626.8982

Your child will spend over half of her waking hours at school.

MAKE SURE ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S A SCHOOL YOU BELIEVE IN.

PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY: Jefferson Communications, LLC 121 Cathedral Street, 3rd floor, Annapolis, MD 21401 Phone: 410-263-1641 Fax: 410-280-0255 These materials are neither sponsored by or endorsed by the Board of Education of Anne Arundel County and all other Maryland counties, the superintendents or the schools. The acceptance of advertising does not constitute endorsement by Chesapeake Family Life of products or services. Advertisers are not given special consideration or placement in editorial content. The publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the policies or standards of this publication. Jefferson Communications assumes no financial responsibility for errors in advertisements. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of Chesapeake Family Life, by any means without permission, is strictly prohibited. ÂŠ2017 Jefferson Communications, LLC.

Find us on Facebook & Twitter: Facebook.com/ChesapeakeFamilyMagazine Twitter: @ChesFamily ChesapeakeFamily.com

Pre-Kindergarten 3 through Grade 12

Schedule your visit today: Grades Pre-K3 - 6 410-923-3660 680 Evergreen Road Crownsville, MD

Grades 7-12

2018 GOLD

CIRCULATION AUDIT BY

410-849-5151 1130 Anne Chambers Way Crownsville, MD

indiancreekschool.org 4

chesapeakefamily.com

AUGUST 2018

The acceptance of advertising does not constitute endorsement by Chesapeake Family of products or services. Advertisers are not given special consideration or placement in editorial content. The publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the policies or standards of this publication. Jefferson Communications assumes no financial

editor's letter

Online this month

Labor Day End-of-Summer parties galore. ChesapeakeFamily.com/ laborday

The Home Stretch

elcome to August, folks! We’ve made it through the end-of-school crazies, sending kids off to camp, swim meets, vacations and the Fourth of July. But summer isn’t over yet! There are still county fairs, festivals, back-to-school crazies and more beach weekends in our future. We hope you’re having a summer filled with fun, family time and some relaxation, and that our 100 Days of Summer posts have been giving you inspiration to take the family to some of the amazingly cool places in our area. From hiking and biking trails to phenomenal museums, parks and beaches, and cities to explore, we really couldn’t ask for a much better place to raise our families. (If you haven’t been following along, head to ChesapeakeFamily.com to look at the past days’ ideas, and follow along for the rest of the summer on the website, Facebook or Twitter.) If you need a little inspiration for recommendations on other family necessities like good restaurants, date night spots, salons, play places, after-school enrichment activities

100 Days of Summer Find a new activity everyday. ChesapeakeFamily. com/100-days-of-summer

and even tutoring options, head straight to page 18 for our annual Family Favorites feature. Our readers put in their two cents on the best places around to eat, drink, shop, play and more, and we’re sure you’ll find these highly recommended places winners in your book as well. (That's me and my youngest pictured above at one of our family favorites—the Marlyland Zoo.) Speaking of Family Favorites, we have one in store that we’re sure will make next year’s list—we're hosting our very own STEAM Festival on September 29. It will be at Annapolis Area Christian School and, while we don’t want to spoil all the surprises, it’s sure to have some really events for kids who are interested in STEAM courses and careers. We hope to see you then!

Fun at the Fair Summer fairs, festivals, and carnivals. ChesapeakeFamily.com/fun

Ann Levelle, Editor Ann@jecoannapolis.com

JOIN T HE CONVERSATION facebook.com/ chesapeakefamily magazine

pinterest.com/ chesfamily

twitter.com/ chesfamily

instagram.com/ chesapeake_family

AUGUST 2018

chesapeakefamily.com

cademic rigor at Key is derived from achieving a deep understanding of the complexity of concepts and problems, not from the sheer amount of content covered. From First School through Upper School, Key’s program emphasizes experiential learning, creative and collaborative problem solving, and building habits of grit and resourcefulness. Key alumni say they are uniquely prepared for the challenges of collegiate programs and well-equipped to meet the demands of the innovation-driven economy.

The Right School is HIGHLIGHTS 2018 • Over 75% of the Class of 2018 received merit scholarships • 80% will attend “Most/Highly/Very Competitive” colleges/universities • 33% will attend Research 1 Universities • 33% intend to pursue STEM-related studies including engineering, computer science, marine and environmental science, pre-health/vet, and architecture • 100% taking Advanced Courses during junior year scored 4 or 5 on the AP exam (Biology, Calculus AB, Calculus BC, Chemistry, Latin, Spanish Literature) • 90% of recent graduates accepted to one of their top choice colleges • 98% of alumni parents surveyed would recommend Key to a friend, colleague or family member The Key School engages children from 2.5 years of age through grade 12 in a progressive, coeducational, college-preparatory program on its picturesque 15-acre campus located 4 miles from downtown Annapolis.

6HILLSMERE chesapeakefamily.com | AUGUST 2018 534 DR. • ANNAPOLIS, MD • 21403 • 410.263.9231 • KEYSCHOOL.ORG

KEY GRADUATES ARE: • Independent thinkers • Intrinsically motivated • Creative innovators • Effective collaborators • Tenacious problemsolvers • Articulate leaders

OPEN HOUSES FIRST SCHOOL (2.5 years – Kindergarten) LOWER SCHOOL (Grades 1-4)

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

MIDDLE SCHOOL (Grades 5-8) UPPER SCHOOL (Grades 9-12)

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 3 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

KEYSCHOOL.ORG/OPENHOUSE

new & notable TRENDS

EDUCATION

HEALTH

NEWS

P H O T O B Y M AT T H E I D

LIFESTYLE

Off the Field with Captain Dee-Fense

t’s a sunny afternoon and I am taking a walk on the Naval Academy grounds with Wes Henson. It is a fitting location, as he retired in 1995 after serving 24 years in the United States Navy. Frequently we are interrupted. First by a gentleman driving toward the Academy exit, who stops, and yells, “Captain Dee!” Next several women who work at the Academy ask for a picture with Henson. These interruptions have nothing to do with his Naval service, but everything to do with his public service. For the last 22 years, Henson has motivated fans both at Ravens games and off the field. Henson explains how it all started, “In 1996 I’m walking around the stadium in army fatigues and a black Baltimore Ravens T-shirt with a big cardboard sign that had “defense” on it. A little girl about eight years-old stopped and asked me the ultimate question, “Hey Mister, are you like the Captain of the Defense?” At that time I wasn’t looking for a name, and never really thought about it.”

Later, he went to the store and got some letters to spell out “Captain Dee-Fense” and put them on the back of his shirt, and a local legend was born. In 2002 he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fans in Canton, Ohio, followed by ESPN Fan Hall of Fame in 2012. His list of accolades continues, but that is not why he puts on the Captain Dee-Fense uniform. Henson feels the Captain Dee-Fense persona has provided him the opportunity to make a difference. “My core belief is that it is my responsibility to make our community a better place and that as Edward Everett Hale said, ‘I am only one, but I am one. I can’t do everything, but I can do something.’ ” On any given weekend, you may find Captain DeeFense making a guest appearance at a wedding, a birthday party, a bar mitzvah, a retirement ceremony or even a funeral. He speaks at schools, and private fundraisers. You can find him visiting both children and adults in local hospitals, veterans at the VA hospital, or even at a sing-a-long in a nursing home. He attends

AUGUST 2018

chesapeakefamily.com

new & notable | family life

Superior Instruction and Personal Growth for Every Child at Two Locations! Annapolis Arnold

Now Enrolling for Fall Classes! Reserve Your Child’s Space Today! Visit ThriveGymnastics.com for the Annapolis offerings ■ 410-995-8130 Visit SevernaParkGymnastics.com for Severna Park classes • 410-709-8130

Fighting tooth decay, one smile at a time... Marla Kush Prokop, DMD PA 621 Ridgely Ave., Suite 202 Annapolis, MD ToothFairySmiles.com · 410.897.1931

St. Margaret’s Day School Kindergarten and Preschool Classes (Ages 2-5)

• MAEOE Green Certified School • STEM Program • Weekly Specials

• Financial Aid • Before & After Care •

• A Nut-Free School • MD EXCELS rated Level 5 • Summer Camps

1605 Pleasant Plains Rd. • Annapolis, MD 410.757.2333 • www.StMargaretsDaySchool.org Our students are accepted without regard to sex, race, religion or national background.

Swim Lessons for infants through seniors Adaptive programs available

Serving Counties in the Chesapeake Region

Red Cross Learn To Swim Program Elise Thomson 410-924-6426 Peggy Miller 410-739-5967

chesapeakefamily.com

AUGUST 2018

Beginner through competitive Private/Semi-Private/ Group Certifications Available -Lifeguarding -CPR -First Aid -AED -Waterfront

Find our Full Schedule on Facebook

continued from page 7

functions with hundreds of people, but will also go out of his way to make sure he is there to visit a cancer patient." Henson does not work for the Baltimore Ravens organization. When he receives public appearances fees, he donates them to a local charity. Recently he formulated an anti-bullying platform to present at schools. “I tell kids ‘you are not perfect, but you are good enough.’ I use the crayon box reference. Each color in the box is different . . . different colors, different names. The best kind of picture is when you use all the colors in the box and they get along.” Henson encourages kids to not be afraid to stand up for others. “It’s okay to be different. Sometimes, if you see someone bullying and don’t do anything, you are part of the problem and not a solution. You do have to tell someone, a teacher or a parent, let someone know. If you are being bullied, you are not alone. There is help out there for you, just reach out. You should not have to go through this alone.” For adults, he says to just listen. “The most important thing you can give someone is your undivided attention.” Henson’s elevenyear-old granddaughter, who calls him “GeePa,” lives in Washington state. He reaches out to her almost every day to let her know how important she is to him—and to get her viewpoint on things. “I text her five days a week before she gets on the school bus and tell her something positive,” shares Henson. “I know middle school can be hard. I try to leave a positive message. I may not be with her, but she is always in my thoughts. Sometimes I talk to her about bullying. It is important to get the insight from a middle schooler and get her perspective.” Henson also has a four-year-old grandson, who lives in Maryland. He loves watching airplanes with Gee-Pa. But don’t discount that time they spend together as silly. “That is where dreams come from,” Henson says. While football has provided the platform for his outreach, Henson encourages kids not to put the players on a pedestal, “It’s okay to appreciate professional athletes, but if you are looking for role models, you should look closer to home. A role model should be somebody you can talk to, somebody you actually know like a parent, close relative or teacher.” You can follow Captain Dee-Fense on Facebook. To inquire about having Captain Dee-Fense make an appearance, contact Mona Freedman with Caring Communities. —Joyce Heid

new & notable | health

Are you ready for

BACK

✏ to SCHOOL? ✂

Free Vaccination Clinics for Middle Schoolers

reparing for middle school can be overwhelming for both children and parents. But before students can roll into the classroom, they will need to roll up their sleeves and update some vaccines. Meningococcal and Tdap vaccines are required for all Maryland students entering the seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth and eleventh grades. These vaccines help prevent bacterial meningitis, whooping cough, tetanus and diphtheria. Parents are responsible for providing proof of immunization to the school nurse prior to the student attending or proof of an appointment for the necessary immunizations within 20 calendar days of the first day of school. Children should see their primary health care provider to get the required vaccines for school. Parents can also contact their local health department for assistance. The Anne Arundel County Health Department is offering several free vaccine clinics in August. The clinics are for returning students who need the MCV4 and Tdap vaccinations. Linda Josephson, RN and

manager of Infectious Disease Infection and Control, says “These are mass walk-in clinics free to all children needing the vaccines, regardless of their insurance status. If they choose to make an appointment at one of the health centers they must be uninsured or underinsured. It behooves everyone to come to the mass clinics.” The free walk-in clinics, available for those with or without insurance, are offered:

Look for our special issue

BIG BOOK of EDUCATION September 2018

• Friday, August 10, 8:30 a.m.–noon and 1–4 p.m. Glen Burnie Health Center, 416 A Street SW, Glen Burnie • Friday, August 17, 8:30 a.m.–noon and 1 – 4 p.m. Health Services Building, 3 Harry S. Truman Parkway, Annapolis Parents of new students should contact either the Parole Health Center, 410-222-7247 or the Glen Burnie Health Center, 410-222-6633 for more information prior to coming to one of the walk-in clinics to review their child’s vaccine history in case additional vaccinations are necessary.

Fun-filled offices that make going to the dentist a positive experience. Most insurance plans accepted and we offer low cost options for uninsured patients.

Call today 1-855-979-3382 GLEN BURNIE • ELKTON • FOREST HILL • HAVRE DE GRACE • PERRING PARKWAY

��00 Braces Special $��00** Children’s Dental Special

mainstreetsmiles.com

New Patient Exam* Oral Exam (0150), Xrays (0272) Cleaning (1120), Fluoride (1208)

With 24 Mo. Treatment

*MUST MENTION THIS OFFER TO RECEIVE DISCOUNT. NEW PATIENTS ONLY. NOT TO BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH INSURANCE, ANY OTHER OFFER, DISCOUNT, OR REDUCED-FEE PROGRAM. OFFER EXPIRES 60 DAYS AFTER RECEIPT. ADA 0150,0272,1120,1208. **MUST MENTION THIS OFFER TO RECEIVE DISCOUNT. VALID ON STANDARD 24-MONTH ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT FOR ADULTS OR CHILDREN IF STARTED 60 DAYS UPON RECEIPT OF THIS OFFER. HAWLEY RETAINER INCLUDED, SPECIALTY BRACKETS OR RETAINERS ARE ADDITIONAL. ADDITIONAL FEES FOR 30MONTH TREATMENT APPLY. NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER DISCOUNT, REDUCED-FEE PROGRAM OR ON PREVIOUS TREATMENT OR TREATMENT ALREADY BEGUN. DISCOUNT FOR INSURANCE PATIENTS MAY VARY. FINANCING AVAILABLE ON APPROVED CREDIT. ADA 9310 DR. MARVIN BECKER. MAINSTREETCHILDREN’SDENTISTRY&ORTHODONTICSCOMPLIESWITHAPPLICABLEFEDERALCIVILRIGHTSLAWSANDDOESNOTDISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF RACE, COLOR, NATIONAL ORIGIN, AGE, DISABILITY, OR SEX. ATENCIÓN: SI HABLA ESPAÑOL, TIENE A SU DISPOSICIÓN SERVICIOS GRATUITOS DE ASISTENCIA LINGÜÍSTICA. LLAME AL 1-(888) 764-5399 (TTY: 1-(888) 764-5399). 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電 1(888)-764-5399（TTY：1-(888) 764-5399)

AUGUST 2018

chesapeakefamily.com

new & notable | education

Tips to Navigate the Financial Aid Field

hen learning about financial aid and its associated lingo—the FAFSA, CSS Profile, and 529 plans all come to mind—it can feel like you’re drowning in alphabet soup. Here are five tips from Rhiannon Schade, director at Collegewise, the largest college counseling company in the nation, that will keep you on the financial fast track.

1. Know where financial aid comes from.

The Federal Government is the biggest source of financial aid for all students. When you fill out the FAFSA, you’re applying for need-based aid from Uncle Sam (although all students who file a FAFSA are eligible for federal unsubsidized student loans, so it’s a good idea to file regardless of whether you feel you’ll qualify for need-based aid). Colleges themselves provide the second most financial aid. The best strategy you can employ to get more financial aid dollars is to apply to AACS_Ches a balanced list of colleges, including Fam August half page ad 2018

schools that are safe bets academically (and thus more likely to give you merit-based aid).

idea of what level of aid you might qualify for and what you’ll end up paying out of pocket.

2. Assess where you stand in relation to the rest of the applicant pool.

4. Look locally for outside scholarships.

Colleges that offer merit aid are discounting tuition to encourage high-achieving students to choose them over other universities. If you want merit aid, apply to at least four “likely” colleges—schools where, based on your grades and standardized test scores, you have a very high chance of being admitted—because those are the colleges that are most likely to give you with an attractive scholarship offer.

3. Use net price calculators.

The sticker price quoted on college websites is often different from the net price that families pay. You can get a sense of how much college will cost your family by using a net price calculator—federal law mandates that colleges display a net price calculator on their website.1 The calculator gives V2.pdf 7/16/18 12:15 PMyou a general

I recommend focusing on small, local scholarships. Because they tend to have fewer applicants, your chances of winning are greater. Most high school guidance offices have a good sense of what local scholarships might be available, so ask your school counselor about scholarships and funds designed to support the education of students within your community.

5. Know what’s required and stay on top of deadlines.

As you are building your college list, keep track of which forms are required and their filing deadlines. I recommend completing the financial aid forms soon after they become available—that means submitting the FAFSA during October of your senior year. For more tips on how to increase your financial aid award, visit Collegewise.com.

DISCOVER aacsonline.org

K–12

Our faith is not just what we say we believe.

It is evident in our actions, attitudes, and relationships. Students at Annapolis Area Christian School learn to be courageous yet humble, to be steadfast in their joy, and to persevere towards all that God has created them to be.

CMY

Annapolis Area Christian School is a K–12th grade non-denominational Christian school offering a college preparatory academic curriculum, a competitive athletic program, and outstanding fine arts. Four locations in Anne Arundel County!

410 519 5300 aacsonline.org

chesapeakefamily.com

AUGUST 2018

new & notable | health

WE THROW

EPIC BIRTHDAYS FOR KIDS! THE MOST FUN YOU CAN HAVE UNDER ONE ROOF! BOWLING • LASER TAG • OVER 100 ARCADE GAMES & MORE!

BIG BLAST $ 95 BIRTHDAY PACKAGE 15 ONLY

PER PERSON

Your dedicated party host takes care of it all so you can relax!

Book now at mainevent.com MAIN EVENT in THE MALL AT COLUMBIA

410-995-9009 • 10300 Little Patuxent Parkway, Suite 2520 • Columbia, MD 21044 10-person minimum. Reservations required. A 12% service charge will be added. Price does not include tax. Prices subject to change. Laser Tag has a height requirement of 48” to play. Other restrictions apply. BDY19_PRT_ChesapeakeFamilyLife_7.25x9.75.indd 1

AUGUST 2018

7/17/18 2:58 PM

chesapeakefamily.com

your Check dio for au brary ks to local li ndtrac nd sou a s k o bo r trip! n you take o

Must Haves for Your Next Summer Adventure

hether you are with your girlfriends, your family, your partner, or even your furry friends, you're on your way to

making lasting memories on any long road trip with these items and family-friendly podcasts. Regardless of where you're headed, we've got summer adventures must-haves that'll make your stateside adventure amazing.Check them out and grab them via our website at ChesapeakeFamily. com/shop/productswelove.

Bad Air Sponge Depending on how long you're driving, you might need to freshen things up. Let this sponge help you neutralize odors. $24.30 for 2 packs

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Jenny Cardoza

Folding Lap Desk This flat surface is perfect for drawing, Lego projects, activity books, eating, and other car activities. The storage inside is an awesome sapce-saver too. $19.99

Bubble Shooter When in doubt pull out the bubble shooter and open the window. Bubbles make everything better. $11.95

Remote Led Car Sign Have fun on the road with this remote LED sign and share fun messages with other travelers. $29.99

ROAD TRIP APPS

Food Tripping

Pulls up local eateries, microbreweries, coffee shops and farmers markets.

Roadside America

Find the best gas prices, complete fun challenges and win gas cards with this app.

itunes

itunes & google

chesapeakefamily.com

Gas Buddy

Skip all the regular tourist attractions and pull up to the largest ball of yarn in America!

AUGUST 2018

USA Rest Stop

RepairPal

Plan your pit stops with this app to find the nearest picnic spots, restrooms, and petfriendly areas.

If you hit a snag and the car needs a mechanic, use this app to find a trustworthy mechanic.

itunes

itunes & google

new & notable | lifestyle

Hours of Audio Family-Friendly Podcasts for a Long Drive

ou may hear your friends talking about their favorite podcasts and wonder when they have the time to listen to them. A long car trip is the perfect time! Even better news is that there are tons of family-friendly podcasts available nowadays. We've rounded

up a few of our favorites that everyone in the car can agree upon. Do you have a favorite podcast? Share your favorites with us via social media at instagram/ chesapeake_family or facebook/chesapeakefamilymagazine.

ur friend and toy guru, Meg, at Franklin's Toys in Annapolis

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Jenny Cardoza

showed us some of the best

activities for family car trips. Visit them at the Riva Festival in Annapolis. Grab some finger puppets while you're there. Nothing says a good time like an impromptu puppet show on the road!

Story Pirates

Wow in the World

Highlights Hangout

Eleanor Amplified

Story Pirates Podcast takes original stories written by child authors, then with a talented cast of actors, comedians, improvisors, and musicians adapt the stories into sketch comedy and musical theater. itunes

This magazine-style show offers a unique audio spin on the stories, characters, puzzles, and jokes that millions of kids dive into each month in the pages of Highlights. itunes

Hosts Mindy Thomas and Guy Raz guide curious kids and their grownups on a journey into the wonders of the world around them. We'll go inside our brains, out into space and deep into the coolest new stories in science and technology. NPR

Listen together as our hero, the world-famous radio reporter Eleanor Amplified, foils devious plots and outwits crafty villains, all in pursuit of the big storyâ&#x20AC;Ś itunes & stitcher

Rubberneckers $12.99

Magnetic Map $24.99

1001 Things to spot on vacation $9.99

Madlibs $4.99

Visit us online to see more parent-approved products at ChesapeakeFamily.com/shop/productswelove AUGUST 2018

chesapeakefamily.com

AUGUST 2018

etween commuting, errands, school, sporting events and road trips, you might sometimes feel that you and your family are practically living in your car. in addition to spending a lot of time in your car, it’s also likely one of

your biggest expenses. And although it may seem like a routine task, driving may be the riskiest activity in your family’s lives. Keeping all this in mind, you want to be sure that your family car is comfortable, affordable and safe. Here are five of the best models for different families’ needs. Each of these models is a strong value in its class, with a roomy interior and relatively thrifty in its fuel economy. Each offers the latest accident-avoidance technology, along with strong crash-test performance. And each earned a high score from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for the ease of installing a child seat.

Best Budget-Friendly Family Car: 2018 Honda Fit ($16,190)

Your family car is a home away from home. Here’s a look at some of the best family models on the market.

It’s easy to write off a subcompact car as too small for a family. But don’t

by Brady Holt

quieter ride, richer interior trim, more high-end options and more power

do so until you’ve checked out the wizardry of this little Honda. Although it’s one of the smallest vehicles you can buy today, the five-door Fit hatchback makes the most of each little square inch. Thanks to a high roof, low floor and stubby little nose, it squeezes in more passenger volume than some SUVs. Yet its petite size and little engine keep it affordable and let it reach 36 miles per gallon in mixed driving. The Fit also offers the “Honda Sensing” suite of advanced safety features. So equipped, the Fit can warn you of an impending collision, and slam the brakes to mitigate or avoid it. It also alerts you if you drift out of your lane, and can steer you gently back into place.

Runner-up: 2018 Kia Soul ($16,200) You may think of Kia as cheap and basic, but the Soul actually brings a than the Fit. And it uses its tall, boxy shape to offer unexpected interior space. But the Honda gets better fuel economy, and most of the Soul’s advanced safety features are limited to fully loaded models.

Runner-up: 2018 Hyundai Elantra ($16,950) You don’t have to get a funky-shaped hatchback to get an affordable family car. The Elantra compact sedan offers classy styling, decent interior space and respectable refinement at reasonable prices. But like the Soul, you need a fully loaded model to get the best safety gear.

AUGUST 2018

chesapeakefamily.com

Best Five-Passenger Family Car: 2018 Subaru Outback ($25,895)

Best Seven-Passenger Family Car: 2018 Honda Odyssey ($30,090)

The Outback is a midsize station wagon that’s optimized for the

It’s easy to think of a seven-passenger crossover as just a minivan

midsize family. It’s long and wide enough to comfortably fit five adults,

without sliding doors. But the difference is obvious inside: Minivans fit

and offers ample room for cargo. Recent upgrades improved the ride

seven passengers more comfortably than even the biggest crossovers,

quality, and there’s a choice of a fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine—

and they have room for a lot of luggage, even behind their

(rated for 28 mpg mixed driving) and a powerful, quiet six-cylinder.

rearmost seat.

It comes standard with all-wheel-drive and a generous 8.7 inch

The Odyssey is today’s leading minivan. Newly redesigned this year,

ground clearance, making it an affordable, fuel-efficient alternative

the Odyssey offers improved ride and handling, a fancier interior,

to an SUV in tackling messy weather or going off-road. For maximum

and new technology and features. And it fits an eighth adult more

safety, choose the EyeSight package, Subaru’s equivalent to

comfortably than the competition. The Honda Sensing safety features

Honda Sensing.

come standard on most Odysseys, and upper trims include neat in-

Runner-up: 2018 Honda CR-V ($24,250)

cabin communication features: a camera to spy on the rear seats, and

This compact crossover is a class standout for interior space and fuel

a microphone to amplify the driver’s voice in the back.

economy, with EPA ratings of up to 30 mpg in mixed driving. And it

Runner-up: 2018 Honda Pilot ($30,900)

includes the Honda Sensing safety suite on almost every model. The

If you want all-wheel-drive or just don’t want a minivan, the Pilot

wider Outback holds five passengers better, though.

crossover offers similar comfort, refinement and safety. It seats up to

Runner-up: 2018 Toyota Camry ($23,645)

eight passengers more comfortably than most crossovers, all without

There’s a lot to like in the redesigned Camry. It boasts a posher interior,

being overly bulky. But cargo space pales against the Odyssey’s.

sportier driving dynamics, and greatly improved fuel economy: up

Runner-up: 2018 Mazda CX-9 ($32,310)

to 34 mpg in mixed driving with the base engine and 52 mpg as a

The CX-9 crossover blends a usefully comfortable interior with the

gas-electric hybrid. These strengths join its past virtues of a spacious

panache of a luxury car, along with an excellent 24 mpg in mixed

interior, a serenely quiet ride and ample standard safety equipment.

driving. Sleeker and more fun to drive than the Pilot, it’s more than just

No sedan can match a wagon for cargo space and versatility.

a family-carrying box. The tradeoff: It’s not quite as roomy.

chesapeakefamily.com

AUGUST 2018

Best Premium Five-Passenger Family Car: 2018 Volvo XC60 ($41,500)

Best Premium Seven-Passenger Family Car: 2018 Volvo XC90 ($46,900)

Volvo’s boxy station wagons were historically associated with affluent

The XC90 shares all the great qualities of the XC60 but fits in third-

families. Now, its station wagons have become sleek sporty models,

row seating to make this appealing package accessible to two more

and its crossovers have assumed the mantle of high-end utility.

passengers, for a total of seven.

The compact XC60 offers generous space and gorgeous interior

Some competitors offer still more interior volume or a more polished

details, along with top-notch safety. Both mechanically and visually, it’s

driving experience, but this Volvo is a compelling blend

a slightly smaller version of the award-winning midsize XC90. And it

of family-friendly virtues, high-grade luxury and relatively

provides an appealing mix of quick acceleration and reasonable fuel

attainable prices.

economy of up to 24 mpg in mixed driving with a gas engine—or

Runner-up: 2018 Audi Q7 ($49,900)

better still with the available plug-in hybrid variant.

Runner-up: 2018 Lincoln MKX ($39,035)

The Q7 won’t fit seven adults, but if you don’t mind leaving the third-row seat to children, this Audi rewards the driver with supremely composed

Spacious and quiet, the MKX is a luxury version of the

driving dynamics whether you hustle or drive gently.

family-friendly Ford Edge midsize crossover with additional refinement

Runner-up: 2018 Ford Expedition ($51,790)

and some extra high-end features. But it’s less opulent and fuel-efficient than the XC60.

Runner-up: 2018 Audi A7 ($69,700)

While a Ford may seem out of place alongside an Audi and Volvo, the price tag doesn’t lie. Compared to the Q7, the Expedition’s luxury stems from generous dimensions and towering seating position, rather than

If you don’t want a boxy, bulky crossover, Audi lets you keep some

ride quality, handling or interior quality. If you crave this experience, or

utility in a much sleeker package: the A7 hatchback, a rare blend of

need the towing capacity of a true truck, the Expedition’s class-leading

style and substance. Alternatively, you can enjoy a similar effect—

passenger accommodations and unexpectedly acceptable 20-mpg fuel

minus some interior room—from the smaller A5 Sportback ($42,600).

economy rating make it a winner.

AUGUST 2018

chesapeakefamily.com

20 18

chesapeakefamily.com

AUGUST 2018

Family Favorite Winners 2018

hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing better than a personal recommendation when it comes to looking for something that you and your family need. That

said, we are giving you hundreds of personal recommendations all at once! We asked our readers and social media followers to tell us their favorite places to play, eat, shop, go on dates, take the kids, and even take the pets, in our

Parent picks for where to eat, play and shop

annual Family Favorites contest.

Illustration by Ellen Byrne

to limit it to the top vote-getters.

Thank you to everyone who voted! We wish we could have listed all of your favorites, but with hundreds voted on in each category, we had Those starred received the most votes and those following are runners up. Two stars in a category indicate a tie. For a more complete list of nominees, visit ChesapeakeFamily.com.

AUGUST 2018

chesapeakefamily.com

DATE NIGHT

MOMS NIGHT OUT

SALON AND SPA

The Point Crab House & Grill

Annapolis

Severna Park

levelannapolis.com

fabusalononline.com

savvyconsignment.com

Hudson & Fouquet Salon

Wee-Sale Consignment Sale

Annapolis, Edgewater

Landover

hudsonfouquet.com

wee-sale.com

Image Creators Salon and Spa

Once Upon a Child

Level

Arnold thepointcrabhouse.com

Fabu' Salon & Spa

Vida Taco Bar Vin 909

Annapolis, Severna Park

Annapolis

vidatacobar.com

vin909.com

Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurant

Café Mezzanotte

Annapolis

Severna Park

chwinery.com

cafemezzanotte.com

imagecreatorssalonandspa.com

CONSIGNMENT Savvy Consignment

Ellicott City, Gambrills, Glen Burnie onceuponachild.com

1 2

GIFTS

OUTDOOR PLAY PLACE

Whimsicality

Anne Arundel County

INDOOR PLAY PLACE Hyper Kidz

MUSEUM Smithsonian Museums

Annapolis

Recreation and Parks

Columbia

Washington, D.C.

shopwhimsicality.com

aacounty.org/departments/

hyperkidzplay.com

si.edu

recreation-parks/parks Westfield Annapolis

Sky Zone

Port Discovery

Westfield Annapolis

Watkins Regional Park

Columbia

Baltimore

Annapolis

Upper Marlboro

skyzone.com/Columbia

portdiscovery.org

outdoors.pgparks.com/sites/ watkins_regional_park.htm

Franklin’s Toys

Annapolis, Severna Park

Annapolis, Waugh Chapel Dunkirk District Park

franklinstoystore.com

co.cal.md.us

chesapeakefamily.com

Mission Escape Rooms

AUGUST 2018

missionescaperooms.com

Chesapeake Children’s Museum

Annapolis theccm.org

BREAKFAST Grump’s Café

Annapolis, Crofton

ICE CREAM Bruster's

Annapolis, Glen Burnie,

Severna Park thebreakfastshoppe.com

Various locations

The FroYo House

The Point Crab House and Grill

Arnold

thefroyohouse.com Annapolis Ice Cream Company

Annapolis, Inner Harbor, Roland Park missshirleys.com

Boatyard Bar & Grill

Garry’s Grill

boatyardbarandgrill.com

annapolisicecream.com

Miss Shirley’s

thepointcrabhouse.com

Annapolis

Chick-Fil-A

chick-fil-a.com

brusters.com

Arnold, Severna Park The Breakfast Shoppe

Harris Crab House and Seafood Restaurant

harriscrabhouse.com

Annapolis, Baltimore, Cockeysville ironroosterallday.com

BEST KIDS MENU

Grasonville

Severna Park Iron Rooster

OVERALL DINING

Severna Park garrysgrill.com

1.St. Michales takes the top spot for day trips.

2. Hyper Kidz is your favorite indoor play space. 3. The Point Crab House & Grill is your top pick for a night out. 4. Savvy took the top spot for consignment stores.

5. Watkins Park was vote best playground and ranked in the top outdoor play spaces. 6. Thrive Gymnastics was vote top party facility and gymnastics. 7. Bruster's was voted best ice cream!

6 TUTORING Mathnasium

PLAYGROUND Watkins Regional Park

PARTY FACILITY

MARTIAL ARTS

Thrive Gymnastics/ Severna Park Gymnastics

Mission Martial Arts at Severna Park Gymnastics/ Thrive Gymnastics

Annapolis, Severna Park

Upper Marlboro

mathnasium.com

outdoors.pgparks.com

Annapolis, Arnold

The Polymath Place

Broadneck Park

severnaparkgymnastics.com

missiontkd.com

Hyper Kidz

Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu & Tai Chi

Deale thepolymathplace.com Little Scholars

Annapolis littlescholarsllc.com/location/ annapolis-md

Annapolis aacounty.org Kinder Farm Park

Millersville aacounty.org

Annapolis, Arnold

thrivegymnastics.com

Columbia, hyperkidzplay.com Pump it Up

Elkridge, Lanham-Bowie, Waldorf pumpitupparty.com

Arnold, jingying.org Mountain Kim Martial Arts

Annapolis annapolistaekwondo.com

AUGUST 2018

chesapeakefamily.com

PET BOARDING

VETERINARIAN

GYMNASTICS

DRAWING/ART/PAINTING

Noah’s Ark Veterinary & Boarding Resort

Greater Annapolis Veterinary Hospital

Thrive Gymnastics/ Severna Park Gymnastics

Millersville

Annapolis

Annapolis, Arnold

Annapolis

noahsarkboardingresort.com

gavh.com

thrivegymnastics.com

Perfect Pet Resort

Greater South River Animal Hospital

Lothian

Edgewater

perfectpetresort.com

greatersouthriverah.com

Artworks

artworksstudio.info

severnaparkgymnastics.com

Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts

Docksiders Gymnastics

Annapolis

Millersville

marylandhall.org

docksidersgymnastics.com

Dogwood Acres

Bay Hills Animal Hospital

Davidsonville

Arnold

1st Class Gymnastics

Pasadena

dogwoodacres.com

bayhillsanimalhospital.com

Annapolis

artsypartsy.net

Artsy Partsy

1stclassgym.com

www.annapolistaekwondo.com

One-month FREE trial!

(first 20 slots only!) Your “other” family doctor. We are a full service hospital with: Diagnostics Dental Medicine Laser Therapy Surgical Bathing Acupuncture

“Wouldn’t take Huckleberry and Hazel anywhere else!” —L.Dressel 125 Mayo Road • Edgewater, MD • 410.956.4500 GreaterSouthRiverAH.com

New

Build your child's confidence and develop respect, a strong mind, and a strong body! Learn from a former sparring champion Master who has over 10 years of teaching experience.

Taekwondo • Judo • Hapkido Limited time offer: B4 & After School Program - 50% off for siblings!

For More Info: mymtkim@gmail.com or 410-266-3337

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

October 12, 13, 14

The Nutcracker

December 8, 9, 15, 16

Snow White

Audience choice brand new ballet premiere! February 22, 23, 24

Innovations (featuring The Firebird) Join us for our 40th Anniversary Season Advance season ticket packages on sale now!

marylandhall.org 22

chesapeakefamily.com

AUGUST 2018

April 26, 27

balletmaryland.org

MUSIC LESSONS Rattle & Roll

DANCE LESSONS Studio 180 Dance

Arnold

Annapolis

rocktherattle.com

studio180dance.com

Music Together Chesapeake

Design in Motion Dance

Annapolis, Crofton, Edgewater, Severna Park musictogetherchesapeake.com Naptown Sings and Plays!

Annapolis naptownsings.com

Gambrills designinmotiondance.com Ballet Theatre of Maryland

Annapolis balletmaryland.org L’ecole de danse

Annapolis lecolededanse.org

ONLINE

To see a complete listing of all the Family Faves visit Visit Chesapeake Family.com

MISSION

ESCAPE

ROOMS

MISSION ESCAPE ROOMS

is an interactive, fun entertainment concept. It is a real-life escape experience designed for small groups of 2-12 people.

YOUR MISSION IS SIMPLE Work together as a team, testing your wits and skills, to escape from a locked room in 50 minutes or less.

10% OFF

missionescaperooms.com Mission Escape Rooms - Annapolis Mission Escape Rooms - Waugh Chapel MissionEscapeRooms

Use promo code “CHESAPEAKE10“ for 10% off your visit

40 West Street • Annapolis, MD • 410-263-3333 1405 S. Main Chapel Way, Suite 105 • Gambrills, MD • 410-721-6666 Arundel Mills Location Coming Soon • Fall 2018

AUGUST 2018

chesapeakefamily.com

family fun

Learning about the stars, planets and meters at local planetariums or outside at a star party. by Carolyn Jeffries

hether your family loves to gaze at the stars to learn about planets, stars and solar systems or merely

enjoys staring at a star-studded summer sky from a blanket in the backyard, August is a great time to get out and enjoy sthe stars— both outdoors and inside. If you’re an outdoor family you should have no trouble finding an open space with dark sky for a quality viewing experience— think state or local parks, Bay beaches, campgrounds and nature centers. If you’re not comfortable enough with your star knowledge, there are several astronomy clubs around the state that host star parties and other events for local enthusiasts and general public. If you prefer a nice air-conditioned astronomy lesson, you can head to one of about a dozen nearby local planetariums. With fun activities and learning programs, a planetarium is a great way to get your child interested in our solar system. Read on for tips on how and where to enjoy our skies.

Outdoor Stargazing While going to a planetarium is a great experience, you can have just as much fun gazing at the stars outside. For a great stargazing spot, head to a big open area, one where you’re easily able to see a large amount of the sky—the farther away from light pollution, the better. You’ll want it to be as dark as possible, with no streetlights, buildings, or ambient light from a nearby city. If you’re ready to head outside, but want some in-the-know astronomers to go along with, look for a local astronomy club. There are quite a few in Maryland, including the Howard Astronomical League (howardastro.org), which holds regularly scheduled public and members-only star parties at Alpha Ridge Park in Marriottsville. The Astronomical Society of Greenbelt (greenbeltastro.org) holds monthly meetings at the H.B. Owens Science Center and regular star parties. For a list of clubs near you, visit astroleague.org.

Upcoming Meteor Showers August 11-13, Perseids Meteor Shower

July 29-August 23, Southern Delta Aquariids

October 7-8, Draconids Meteor Shower

This is easily one

Best seen from

This is a good one to

of the best meteor

the Southern

watch with little kids,

showers of the year,

Hemisphere, you

as the showers peak

and will have no

can still catch a

in the early in the

moon to contend

glimpse of some

evening, rather than

with, giving you a

falling meteors

in the wee morning

great chance to see

during early August.

hours.

lots of fire in the sky.

Download the Sky Guide App to find the best stargazing spots.

chesapeakefamily.com

AUGUST 2018

family fun

Planetariums Davis Planetarium Explore the sky on a guided tour through space under the star theater dome. Showing thousands of stars and planets, Davis Planetarium has dozens of shows to teach your child about the solar system, including “Big Bird’s Adventure,” “We Are Aliens,” and “Black Holes.” Science Center general admission is around $25; $19 for children. Maryland Science Center 601 Light Street, Baltimore 410-685-2370; mdsci.org

Spaceflight America Museum/Arthur Storer Planetarium

Howard B. Owens Science Center

Exciting opportunities to

dome in Maryland can

learn about the impact of space and technology at this aerospace-themed museum. A typical tour

open the third Saturday of the month. $5 adults, $4 children 3–10; 3 and

museum.org

William Brish Planetarium

Full-dome theater and

Hagerstown

planetarium showing the

301-766-2898;

night sky or movies.

wbplanetarium.

$5 adults; $3 children.

weebly.com

Planetarium is $3 extra.

Watson-King Planetarium

Columbia robinsonfoundation.org

Towson University, Towson

programs on the second

Ausherman Planetarium Natelli Observatory

Friday of every month

Summer afternoon

from September through

matinees. Evening

May, as well as mini

programs during the

programs on selected

school year

Friday nights. $5 adults,

210 Madison St.,

$3 children 3–10.

Frederick

pgcps.org/

education.fcps.org/essl/

howardbowens

general-information

Schools and offers public

demonstration. Usually

spaceflightamerica

170 reclining upholstered

George’s County Public

and an activity or

Prince Fredrick

dome from the comfort of

is operated by Prince

show, museum tour,

520 Fox Run Blvd.,

project 8,000 on the

seats. The Planetarium

includes a planetarium

younger are free.

The largest planetarium

NatureSphere at Robinson Nature Center

towson.edu/fcsm/ centers/planetarium.html

Montgomery College Planetarium Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus montgomerycollege.edu/ departments/planet

Visit us online for more family fun. ChesapeakeFamily.com

DOCKSIDERS GYMNASTICS The Best Upside Down Fun Around!

Ask us about: • Classes for 18 mos. & up • Competitive Girl’s and Boy’s Teams

• Open Gym • Adult Open Gym

• Birthday Parties

• Field Trips • Home School Groups

Excellence by Choice 216 Najoles Road , Millersville, MD 21108 410-987-8780 · docksidersgymnastics.com

Artworks Studio

2018-19 School Year Class Schedule Online Now •After School •Birthday pARTies •Summer Camps •Art “on the Gogh” •Homeschool •Parent Child Art Classes

Annapolis, Arnold & Severna Park artworksstudio.info

410-271-3343 AUGUST 2018

chesapeakefamily.com

calendar | august

get out TONS OF FUN THINGS TO DO THIS MONTH

vents are subject to change so check websites before heading out. For even more events visit chesapeakefamily.com/ calendar.

1 Wednesday

Architect’s Apprentice

A 90-minute program designed especially for children who want to discover an architect’s world. $15 per family. Please register. 10-11:30am. Hammond Harwood House, Annapolis. 410-263-4683, hammondharwoodhouse.org

Let’s Science Summer: Polar Party

Through Aug. 5. Build a snowball launcher, go ice bowling, participate in penguin races, and see if it’s possible to set ice on fire and more. $19–$25. 10am-5pm. The Maryland Science Center, Baltimore. mdsci.org

2 Thursday

Critter Cruise for Kids & Families

Learn all about blue crabs, american eels and mummichogs aboard the Harbor Queen. Presented in Partnership with staff from the Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park. $20; $15 ages 3-11; free ages 2 and under. 10:30-11:30am. City Dock, Annapolis. cruisesonthebay.com

3 Friday

Summer Fridays

Play cornhole, Connect Four, giant Jenga, hula hoops, hopscotch and more. Musical performances at 6pm. DJ starting at 7pm. National Harbor. nationalharbor.com

Great Chesapeake Balloon Festival

Aug. 3–5. Over 15 hot air balloons, balloon rides, vendors, food trucks, kids zone and more. $5 per car. Noon-9pm. Triple Creek Winery, Cordova. chesapeakebayballoonandwinefestival.com

Annual Annapolis Rotary Crab Feast

Kids on the Creek August 24th

All-you-can-eat and drink crabs, Maryland vegetable crab soup, corn on the cob, beef barbeque sandwiches, watermelon, draft beer, and assorted sodas and water. A bake sale and cake raffle, and more. 5-8pm. $65; $25 child. Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, Annapolis. annapolisrotary.org

The Hunchback of Notre Dame

Join Spa Creek Conservancy for a day of fun and learning. Families are invited to learn about Spa Creek at the Kids on the Creek free event, Saturday August 24 from 11am to 3pm at the Truxtun Park Boat Ramp, Annapolis. Kids can enjoy the park and creek with free boat rides, free food and drink, seining and oyster tonging demonstrations, and a scavenger hunt with prizes.Native plants will be available for those who want to create pollinator gardens. Limited number of boat rides available. First-come, first-serve. For more information and to pre-register for the event go to: http://spacreek.net/index.php/104-kids-on-the-creek

Aug. 3–5 and 9–12. Based on the Victor Hugo novel and songs from the Disney animated feature, The Hunchback of Notre Dame showcases the film’s Academy Award-nominated score, as well as new songs. Presented by the Talent Machine. $15. Check for showtimes. Francis Scott Key Auditorium, St. John’s College, Annapolis. talentmachine.com

Go to ChesapeakeFamily.com/Calendar for more events!

chesapeakefamily.com

AUGUST 2018

calendar | august 4 Saturday

Maker’s Market

Shop for handmade, homemade, or homegrown products, including crafts, hanging baskets, organic skincare products, farm fresh produce, cut flowers, baked goods, batik and fleece clothing, handmade soaps and candles, herbal teas, ornaments, folkart, handmade gifts, and more. Free. 9am1pm. Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Art Center. annmariegarden.org

Howard County Fair

Aug. 4–11. Rides, interactive exhibits, educational demonstrations, children’s entertainment, live music and more. $2–$5. Children under 10 free. 8am-11pm. Howard County Fairgrounds, West Friendship. howardcountyfair.org

Peach Party Weekend

Aug. 4–5. Breakfast served from 9-11am. Harvest party to follow starting at 11am. Ice cream demonstrations, pie eating contest, pedal tractor pull competition, games,spider web crawl and more. $2. 9am-5pm. Milburn Orchards, Elkton. 410-398–1349, milburnorchards.com

Annual Peach Festival

Oven fried or barbequed chicken dinners complete with the church’s famous pickled beets, silent auction, bake sale and more. Children under 10 $8; adults eat in or carryout $18; just dessert $3. Proceeds benefit community outreach and other mission projects. Noon-5pm. Eastport United Methodist Church, Annapolis. 410-263-5490, eastportumc.org

allowed to be brought on site. Pets are welcome. Rain or shine. Free, donations are appreciated. 5-6pm. Historic London Town and Gardens, Edgewater. 410-222-1919, historiclondontown.com

Free Movie—Reynolds Tavern

Watch an outdoor movie under the stars. The Beer Garden will become your Neighborhood Outdoor Movie Theatre with Free Classic Movie Screenings. Free. 8:45pm, approx. Pub at Reynolds Tavern, Annapolis. 410-295-9555

6 Monday

Queen Anne’s County Fair

Aug. 6–11. Animals, educational exhibits, rodeo, jousting, truck/tractor pulls, chainsaw carving, carnival, food and craft vendors, music and more. $2–$3. 9am-10pm. Queen Anne’s County 4-H Park, Centreville. queenannescofair.com

Ongoing Events Makers Monday: Ages 6-10, Mondays, 10:30 am Creek Critters: Nature Walk, All Ages Thursdays, 10:30 am Art and Story Time: Ages 2-5, Fridays, 10:30 am

August Events

7 Tuesday

Juice Box Jam: FREE outdoor concert with SQRRRL! August 21st, 10:30-11 am

Visitors receive half off regular admission the first Tuesday of every month. $20; ages 2-12 $12. 10am-4pm. B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore. borail.org

Camp Kunta Kinta: Crafts, stories, music and snacks to honor the culture of west Africa. Ages 6-10. August 6th- 10th, 9:30-11:30 am

Thrifty Tuesday

theccm.org 410.990.1993 25 Silopanna Road, Annapolis,MD 21403 info@theccm.org

National Night Out

Celebrate National Night Out to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness. Block party style events include police and fire vehicles, children’s activities, information kiosks, and refreshments. Free. 5-8pm. Crofton Library. 410-222-7915, aacpl.net

Volunteer and Earn More!

8 Wednesday Jelly Bean Circus

5 Sunday

Mayo Beach Park Public Open Days

Public open days, on most Sundays from Memorial Day until Labor Day, are free and open to the general public. Visitors on open days can pack a lunch, bring their canoe, kayak, windsurfer or paddleboard and enjoy a beautiful afternoon. A shallow beach area is available for water play and wading. 11am-5pm. Mayo Beach Park, Edgewater. aacounty.org

Annapolis First Sunday Arts Festival

Arts and craft show featuring 100 local and regional artists, live music, dance, street performers, food and more. Free. Noon-5pm. Calvert and West streets, Annapolis. firstsundayarts.com

Helicopter Candy Drop

Participate in a candy drop after the game. Tickets start at $8. Game starts at 1:35pm. Prince George’s Stadium, Bowie. milb.com

Historic London Town and Gardens Concert Series Family-fun night featuring Milkshake. Drinks and snacks are available for purchase. No alcohol

Aug. 8, 12 and 18. Puppet show featuring the Jellybean Circus. $6. 10am. The Puppet Co., Glen Echo. thepuppetco.org

Weekly Sailboat Races

Weekly on Wed. Watch some 150 crews compete in midweek races that involve sailing around several marks in the Bay before heading back to Spa Creek for a finish in front of the Annapolis Yacht Club. Free. 6-8pm. Annapolis Yacht Club. visitmaryland. org/event/wednesday-night-sailboat-races

9 Thursday

Taste the Rainbow

Learn about healthy eating and taste colorful fruits and vegetables in this special class with Laura Norton from Annapolis Pediatrics. Free. 9:30am. Crofton Library. 410-222-7915, aacpl.net

Learn to Fish

September 27-30th Thursday Sept. 27th 9-8 (no children before 12 noon) Friday Sept 28th 9-8 Saturday Sept 29th 8-5 (25% off) Sunday Sept 30th 8-1 (50% off) at the Prince George’s Sports & Learning Complex 8001 Sheriff Road, Hyattsville, MD

SELL, SHOP, SAVE

Learn the proper techniques of fishing and the types of species you may find on the refuge while having fun. Equipment provided. Ages 5-12. Please register. Free. 2-2:30pm. National Wildlife Visitor Center, Laurel. fws.gov

Wee-Sale.com 410-562-8398

Go to ChesapeakeFamily.com/Calendar for more events! AUGUST 2018

chesapeakefamily.com

calendar | august Rock the Dock

Annapolis Art in Public Places Commission’s 2018 Summer Concert Series. If inclement weather, cancellations are made by 3 p.m. the day of the event. Jazlette Jazz will perform. 7pm. Susan Campbell Park in downtown Annapolis. 410-263-7958, annapolis.gov/summerconcerts

Peter and the Wolf

Aug. 9-Sept. 30. Staged with half life-size marionettes and based on Prokofiev’s popular tale of good versus evil. Puppet show featuring dragons. $12. Check for showtimes. The Puppet Co., Glen Echo. thepuppetco.org

10 Friday

Montgomery County Agricultural Fair Aug. 10–18. Food, entertainment, farm animals, rides, demolition derby, monster trucks and more. $10. Children 11 and under free. 10am-midnight. Montgomery County Agricultural Fairgrounds, Gaithersburg. mcagfair.com

Maryland Hall Summer Concert Series: Encore Rocks!

Free concerts; wine and beer will be for sale. Check website for showtimes. Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, Annapolis. marylandhall.org

Kids’ Night Out at The Clay Bakers

Kids can paint a canvas dish and watch “The Nut Job,” while parents enjoy a few hours out. Pizza and drinks provided. Reservations required. Ages 6+. $35. 6-9pm. The Clay Bakers, Annapolis. theclaybakers.com

Pirates and Wenches Fantasy Weekend

12 Sunday

Science Sunday

Join Irvine naturalists to explore the natural world of science with activities focused on a new and exciting science theme. Hands-on exhibits, outside hikes, crafts and more. Free for members. 10am-noon. Irvine Nature Center, Owings Mills. 443-738-9200, explorenature.org

Aug. 10–12. The whole family can unleash its inner pirate at this swashbuckling weekend full of piratethemed kid’s games, crafts, storytelling, live music, a boat decorating contest and parade, and more. See website for event hours and details. Rock Hall. rockhallpirates.com

Watermen’s Appreciation Day

11 Saturday

13 Monday

Aug. 11–12. Peaches, food, music, family activities and more. Free. 9am-7pm. Webers Cider Mill Farm, Parkville. 410-668-4488, weberscidermillfarm.com

Aug. 13–17. End-of-summer adventure with fun hands-on activities, games, storytimes, boatbuilding, water garden, bounce house, arcade games and more. Train Ride 11:30am Thurs. and Fri. $20; ages 2-12 $12. 10am-4pm. B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore. borail.org

Annual Peach Festival

Revolutionary Tea for Kids

Learn about what it was like to be a child during the American Revolution. Lemonade, tea, and cookies and make a historic craft inspired by the 1700s. $10. 1-3pm. Mount Clare Museum House, Baltimore. 410-837-3262, mountclare.org

Boat docking contest, family activities, live music, steamed crabs and Bay-themed fun for the whole family. $8–$18. 10am-5pm. Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, St. Michaels. 410-745-2916, cbmm.org

Beach Bound Rail Adventures

14 Tuesday

Kids Club: Apple Pie Bites

Children’s culinary workshop using all natural ingredients. Registration required. $5. 11-11:45am. Whole Foods Market, Annapolis. 410-573-1800, wholefoodsmarket.com

All Our Dentists are Board Certified: Hakan O. Koymen, DDS, MS Luz M. Tennassee DDS Marta Jolesz, DDS Hyejin Esther Cho, DMD Sylvia Yen, MPH, DMD Myrnelle Damas, DDS

You Can Find the Right Pediatric Dentist for Your Child! Motivating Minds • 2/3s class • 3/4s class • PK class • STEAM class • Wednesdays at Weems

chesapeakepediatricdental.com NOW WITH THREE LOCATIONS!

Visit us at www.weemscreeknurseryschool.com or schedule a tour by calling 410.266.5522

ARUNDEL MILLS 7556 Teague Road Suite 110 Hanover, MD 21076 410.799.0780

WHITE MARSH 5009 Honeygo Center Dr. Suite 228 Perry Hall, MD 21128 410.248.3384

Go to ChesapeakeFamily.com/Calendar for more events!

chesapeakefamily.com

AUGUST 2018

Find us on

Facebook

ABINGDON/BEL AIR 3400 Box Hill Corporate Center Drive, Suite 120 Abingdon, MD 21009 410.569.4300

calendar | august U.S. Navy Band

The U.S. Navy Band’s premier country-bluegrass ensemble performs a wide variety of favorites as well as original compositions. The concert culminates with a salute to veterans. 6pm. Free. The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. kennedy-center.org

16 Thursday

Summer Family Program: Rainbows in the Garden

between 5 and 9pm on movie nights. If it rains, movies are moved inside the museum’s Jim Rouse Visionary Center. Free. 5-9pm. American Visionary Art Museum, Baltimore. 410-244-1900, avam.org

17 Friday

Caroline Summerfest

Aug. 17–18. Music, parade, fireworks and more. Free. Fri., 5-10pm; Sat., 2-9pm. Downtown Denton. carolinesummerfest.com

Explore all the beautiful colors of the rainbow by reading the book “Planting a Rainbow.” Make fun crafts, sing songs, and explore the William Paca Garden (10-11:30am). A 40-minute Annapolis Harbor & USNA Cruise on the Harbor Queen is included; Cruises depart at 12 pm, 1 pm, 2 pm, 3 pm & 4 pm. Registration required. $22; $14 ages 3-11. 10-11:30am. William Paca House & Garden, Annapolis. annapolis.org

18 Saturday

Teen Night

Live music, vendors, food, kids corner and more. $66–$79, children 12 and under free. 11am. Oregon Ridge Park, Cockeysville. hotaugustmusicfestival.com

Experience the museum, including Fun House, after hours while dancing to a DJ, relaxing with friends, or trying out a design challenge. Parent supervision not required. Free. 6-9pm. National Building Museum, Washington. go.nbm.org

Flicks from the Hill

Watch films on Federal Hill in the Hughes Family Outdoor Theater. The museum is also open and free

Around The World Cultural Food Festival

A day trip around the world and present you the cuisine, culture and traditions of over 40 countries. Free. 11am-7pm. Freedom Plaza, Washington. aroundtheworldfestival.com

Hot August Blues and Roots Festival

Chesapeake Crab & Beer Festival

All you can eat crabs and beer, live music, arts & crafts, family fun and more. $39–$99. Sessions from 11am-3pm and 5-9pm. National Harbor Plateau. mdcrabfest.com

What is your

Maryland National Capital Park Police Community Day

Food, pony rides, vendors, moon bounce, police demonstrations, rock slide, live music and more. Free. Noon-4pm. Watkins Regional Park, Upper Marlboro. outdoors.pgparks.com/Sites/Watkins_ Regional_Park.htm

Summer Concert—Guava Jelly

Fun, reggae-styled children’s songs introduce audiences to new music. Bring blankets and lawn chairs. Caliente Grill and Kona Ice will be on site. Free. 5:30-7:30pm. Quiet Waters Park, Annapolis. facebook.com/guavajellytrio

19 Sunday

Annual Puppy Plunge

Dogs welcome. Swimming, food, vendors, doggy pie eating contest, doggy beachwear parade and more. Proceeds benefit the SPCA of Anne Arundel County. $10; $20 per car. Noon-3pm. Camp Letts, Edgewater. 410-268-4388, aacspca.org

20 Monday

Preschool Program Gardening Class

Harvest veggies and see what you can make. Registration required. $3 members; $5 nonmembers. 10-11:15am. Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center, Grasonville. 410-827-6694, bayrestoration.org

FALL SEMESTER BEGINS SEPTEMBER 5

BEST YOU? Our BEST YOU

earned over $300K in scholarships

from area high schools.

The PEABODY PREPARATORY campus in Annapolis at the Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts offers individual instruction for all ages and skill levels: PIANO • GUITAR • HARP • VOICE

Serving Preschool through Grade 8

peabody.jhu.edu/preparatory 667-208-6640

Htrinity.org admissions@htrinity.org 301-262-5355 Call for personal tour/open house information. Go to ChesapeakeFamily.com/Calendar for more events! AUGUST 2018

chesapeakefamily.com

calendar | august Dino Dig!

21 Tuesday

Nature Tots: Furry Friends

Introduce your preschooler to the wonderful world of our furry mammal friends through stories, songs and more in this hands-on, interactive program. Ages 3-4. Registration required. Free. 10:30-11:30am. National Wildlife Visitor Center, Laurel. fws.gov

Family Bingo

Enjoy an afternoon playing bingo with your family and friends. Free. 2pm. Brooklyn Park Library. 410-222-6260, aacpl.net

Uncover hidden treasures from the past, learn about fossils, and more. Free. 1:30pm. Brooklyn Park Library. 410-222-6260, aacpl.net

24 Friday

5th Anual Rockin Raffle

The Reagan Years perform live. 100% of sales from the raffle will go to the SPCA, 5 winners will be chosen. 7-8:30pm. Free. Annapolis Towne Center. visitatc.com

See highlight on page 26.

Drop in for a new STEAM activity every Wednesday during the month of August. Free. 2-3pm. EastportAnnapolis Neck Library. 410-222-1770, aacpl.net

23 Thursday

Maryland State Fair

Aug. 23â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Sept. 3. Food, fun, entertainment, rides, livestock, concerts and more. $3â&#x20AC;&#x201C;$8. Children 5 and under free. Rides and concerts require fee. Maryland State Fairgrounds, Timonium. marylandstatefair.com

Aug. 25 and 26; Sept. 1â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Oct. 21, Saturdays and Sundays. 25-acre English village with craft and specialty shops, food and beverage emporiums, games, attractions, jousting and more. $7â&#x20AC;&#x201C;$130. 10am-7pm. Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds, Crownsville. rennfest.com

Two hours of all-request live music paired with a lunch buffet, dancing and more. $20. Noon2:30pm. Bobby McKeys, National Harbor. nationalharbor.com

Kids on the Creek

STEAM Wednesday

Maryland Renaissance Festival

Bobby McKeyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kids Day

25 Saturday

22 Wednesday

crafts, fishing, archery and firearm demonstrations. Free. 10am-2pm. Patuxent North Tract, Laurel. 301-497-5772, fws.gov

Enrichment Day

Celebrate Enrichment Day by participating in training and enrichment activities, attend demonstrations and talk to animal keepers about why enrichment is such an important part of the everyday care of Zoo animals. Free. 10am-2pm. Smithsonianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute. 202-633-4888, nationalzoo.si.edu

Kids Night

Wildlife Conservation & Recreation Day

Science Sunday

Learn about wildlife conservation and recreational opportunities through habitat exploration, childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Watch the Baysox take on the Seawolves. Touch a truck from 4:30-6:30 and fireworks to follow the game. Tickets start at $8. Game starts at 6:35pm. Prince Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Stadium, Bowie. milb.com

26 Sunday

Join Irvine naturalists to explore the natural world of science with activities focused on a new and exciting science theme. Free for members.

Kids on the Creek

August 25th

Truxtun Park Road, Annapolis

Boat Rides FOOD