December 2014

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December 2014

Information, Education and Entertainment for Northeast Florida Families

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Page 2 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

Contents

Letter From The Editor

December 2014

Dear Readers,

W

e’ve had a merry time putting this issue together for you. It’s filled with holiday events and ideas. May I draw your attention to a few of my favorites? Turn to the Tidbits page (page 16) and read about NORAD Santa Tracker.

Do you have a child with special needs on your gift list? If so, turn to page 12 for gift ideas. For 20 years, Toys ‘R Us has published a differentlyabled toy guide. You can find it in store or online at toysrus.com. Our local bookstores are gems!

Read about them on page 29. We couldn’t resist the Elf On A Shelf craze. We had fun finding creative Elf pictures to share throughout this issue. Join the fun! Instagram us your Elf on a Shelf pictures #jax4kids. All of the holiday events this year are another favorite. Look for the it and in the spirit of sharing, we give you the ads and listings on page 35 and 38 for some chance to vote on your favorite businesses, prodgreat holiday entertainment or log on to our ucts and services for families. Thanks to everyone online Holiday Events Guide at jax4kids.com. who voted this year. The collective wisdom of One great event we are planning for you is our an- over 1,000 parents is shared in the 8-page pull out Best Of for Families results section (pages 17-24). nual Noon Year’s Eve at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. Jacksonville’s rising star Dalton Cyr will Keep it as a reference. Congratulations to all of be performing this year. Read more about Dalton this year’s winners! on page 15. In addition to great entertainment, we’ll be giving away at ski trip to Cataloochee Ski I can’t let the year come to a close without a word of thanks. Thank you to the many contributors Area in Maggie Valley, North Carolina and goody and dedicated Jax4Kids.com staff members who bags for the first 500 kids to arrive. It all begins make the free information services we provide at 10am with an apple juice toast at noon. Noon possible. Thank you for your contributions, for Year’s Eve is free with Zoo admission. sharing Jax4Kids.com with your friends and for When you find something good, you want to share your enthusiastic support for 12 years!

Until next month,

living well

Powerful Moments................................................................................. 4 Community Profile: The Pulse Christian Youth Center................................ 5

eating well

May Your Days Be Merry and Sweet........................................................ 6 Fun With Food........................................................................................ 7

Health & safety All About Sports: Snowboarding............................................................... 8

nature Bartram’s Travels.................................................................................... 9 Florida Wildlife: Florida Box Turtle............................................................ 9

Infant & Toddler Treating Your Cold Naturally...................................................................10 Car Seat Safety....................................................................................11

special needs

Gift Guide.............................................................................................12 Holidays With Special Needs Children....................................................13

Teens

Synthetic Drugs: The Big Fat Lie that is Killing Our Kids..........................14 Teen Idol Dalton Cyr Returns To Jacksonville..........................................15

Jax4kids.com best of 2014

Best Of 2014 Winners.....................................................................17-24

Alison Peters-Carlson Editor

Merry Christmas!

Follow us...

Alison Peters-Carlson Editor....................................... editor@jax4kids.com Natasha Chapman Associate Editor..........................natasha@jax4kids.com Linda Bigbee Graphic Designer......................................linda@jax4kids.com Jen Cramer Circulation Manager...................................... jen@jax4kids.com Doug Berle Advertising Sales......................................... doug@jax4kids.com Beth Canonica Advertising Sales.................................... beth@jax4kids.com Donna Paunetto Advertising Sales.............................. donna@jax4kids.com Mary Gustafson Business Manager............................... mary@jax4kids.com Judi Fields Administrative Assistant Nancy Lee Bethea Contributing Writer Lexi Dupre Contributing Writer Published by Child Enrichment, LLC, 12620-3 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246. Copyright 2014.

Reproduction of any artwork or copy prepared by Jax4Kids.com To Go is strictly prohibited without written consent of the publisher. We will not be responsible for any errors and/or omissions. The Publisher’s liability for error will not exceed the cost of space occupied by the error. Articles for publication are welcome and may be sent to editor@jax4kids.com. For more information concerning advertising, call 904-710-2020 or e-mail advertise@jax4kids.com.

Page 3 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

St. Johns County School news Superintendent Dr. Joyner Visits Ocean Palms Elementary......................25 Principal and Assistant Principal of the Year Nominees...........................25

Clay County School news

Oakleaf High School Teacher Recognized by Governor Scott...................26 Clay County Community Education........................................................26 Nutrition and Exercise Challenge for December......................................26

Duval county public Schools School Choice Expo..............................................................................27 Discover Duval Schools Tour Schedule...................................................28

education

The New Low-Tech Trend? Local Bookstores!........................................29 Kids Say the Funniest Things!................................................................30 That’s MY Job! Danielle Moskowitz - ASL Interpreter..............................30

Holiday gift guide

Holiday Gift Guide............................................................................31-32

Pets

Vacation Checklist for Your Dog Sitter....................................................37

Things to do

December Events.................................................................................38

Living well

Powerful Moments

Y

ou know who they are. You see them every day.

They exist in the spaces between our busy lives.

He’s the security guard that stands between the world outside and your office inside.

She’s the register person between your groceries and your car.

She’s the bank teller between you and your money.

The train conductor. Dry cleaner. Secretary. The waiter between you and your lunch.

Even your sweet faced children who stand between the front door and your bedroom when you arrive home from work.

They are the familiar faces we see every day.

They are the people we spend time with, even for brief moments that make life more meaningful, more connected, more real.

They are the people we encounter between where we were and where we are going.

At various times during your day they stand right before you, here and now.

And I have a theory that says how we treat the people in between our busy lives is directly related to our happiness.

For how we treat the people in between where we were and where we are going is indicative of how we live in the present moment.

Unfortunately I’ve noticed that as a society we are becoming more comfortable ignoring others. It’s a common practice on the NYC subways but even during my walks in Ponte Vedra Beach I will say hi to people and they just walk right past me without acknowledging that I exist.

Snow Sisters & Snowman Characters

If you walk right past the security guard at work without saying hello because you are just too busy then you are not in the present moment. If busyness and stress prevent you from connecting with your co-workers when you arrive at work then you are not in the present moment. And it is during the present moment where happiness, relationships, love and life are created.

To live life fully, then, is to make the most of the time in between where you were and where you are going and the best way to make sure you are doing this is to create meaningful interactions with the people in between. When you really think about it we all represent the people in between for we all live between the lives of each otherconnected by phones, cars, roads, trains, oceans, planes, the internet and most of all love and energy.

So share your kindness, time, energy and compassion. Don’t let the seemingly insignificant moments slip away for in reality they mean everything. We are all the people in between and when we recognize the significance of each other we also feel it and experience it inside ourselves.

j

Jon Gordon www.jongordon.com • www.positiveschool.com

“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.”

– William Arthur Ward

Page 4 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

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Living well

Community Profile: The Pulse Christian Youth Center

T

he Pulse Ministries, a walk-in community center for at-risk and disadvantage children in Jacksonville, is seeking support in their mission to continue serving the needs of kids from grades kindergarten through college.

ball court. They also open the doors of The Pulse Christian Youth Center on Saturday nights to kids to provide a safe and clean alternative for young people to enjoy games, movies, and theme nights like guys-only or girls-only.

Since 2009, they have been providing free

The Pulse is a Christian-based center whose mission is rooted in the belief that if you have a pulse, you have a purpose.

services to neighborhood kids such as a children’s library, computer lab with internet and a printer, after-school tutoring, field trips to local parks, museums and concerts, breakfasts, after-school snacks, dinners and even a basket-

Many of the kids from The Pulse’s neighborhood struggle academically and economically. Many will never complete high school and some will end up in prison or homeless. By providing these children with knowledge and skills to become successful, The Pulse guides them to becoming better people both today and in the future.

Currently, The Pulse needs the community’s help with providing them with advocacy, funding, volunteers and advertising. Boasting a 100 percent graduation rate, zero percent teen pregnancy rate, zero percent gang membership, 0 percent teen suicide rate, and 100 percent missing child safely returned rate, it is clear that The Pulse’s efforts have reaped much benefit to disadvantaged youth in the community.

In order to give a tax-deductible donation, simply visit http://www.thepulsechurch.org/ to make a donation.

Supplies such as office kitchen and bathroom basics are also greatly needed. Further, food is among the resources that would greatly serve the needs of The Pulse. Every week they provide an average of 60 healthy meals to kids, including 12 breakfasts, 25 after school snacks, and 45 dinners.

Volunteers are always welcomed to serve at The Pulse. Whether it’s help with cooking and serving food, supervising activities, teaching, or presenting programs and inspiring – all talents are welcome and encouraged.

Tutors and mentors are needed as little as one afternoon per month to help children lagging behind in school struggling in areas like reading or math.

In Jacksonville, nearly three out of four black ninth graders fail to earn a high school diploma in four years, according to the Schott Foundation for Public Education. Additionally, a student who One of the greatest needs of The Pulse is funding. cannot read on their grade level by third grade is

Page 5 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

four times less likely to graduate by age 19. If the child is impoverished, they are 13 times less likely to graduate on time than his or her proficient, wealthier peer, according to the American Educational Research Association.

With such staggering statistics affecting the Jacksonville community, The Pulse encourages anyone willing to donate their time, services or donations to reach out to them to discuss ways to get involved in their mission of help and service.

For more information, please email info@ thepulsecurch.org, visit thepulsechurch.org, or call (904)-248-9232. e recognize the significance of each other we also feel it and experience it inside ourselves. j

eating well

May Your Days Be Merry and Sweet W

hen I say the word December, what comes to mind? Many of you may think traditional holidays such as Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or Boxing Day (if you’re one of our Canadian friends). I bet none of you thought of maple syrup.

But, believe it or not, December 17th is National Maple Syrup Day! So it made me think – maybe we should celebrate the holidays with not only our favorite traditional dishes, but think about starting a new tradition in your family by serving pancakes and real maple syrup as a sweet treat this month.

History Native Americans were the first to harvest and boil the sap of the maple tree into thick syrup.

The sap is harvested in the late winter months of February - March in the Northeastern US and Canada. Syrup flavor is affected by many different things including soil type, tree genetics, weather conditions, time during the season when it’s collected and the processing techniques. The majority of maple syrup is produced in forests we are no herbicides pesticides have been applied - therefore it could be considered organic. The US and Canada have their own separate grading systems by which the syrup is classified depending on its color and quality. In the US, Grade A and Grade B mean something different. Grade A is considered the premiere type of syrup that’s meant for eating and is broken into three subgrades which are determined by color – they are categorized as Light Amber, Medium Amber and Dark Amber. Grade B is so dark that it’s generally only used for cooking or baking.

Why is Maple Syrup so expensive?

Depending on the sugar content of the sap, it takes between 40 to 50 gallons of sap to make one gallon of syrup. This is in contrast to “breakfast syrup” which is made of cheaper ingredients such as high fructose corn syrup, corn syrup, water, salt, caramel coloring and artificial flavoring. The calorie and sugar content of commercial syrup is not much different from real maple syrup, however, the major difference between the two is natural vs. artificial ingredients and price.

Labeling laws prevent imitation syrups from putting the word “maple” on their labels, but many are still fooled into thinking they are getting the real deal.

Nutritional Facts in One Tablespoon Maple

Syrup: • 52 calories • 0 grams fat • 14 grams sugar • 2 mg sodium • 42 mg potassium

Just keep in mind that although real maple syrup is considered a more of a whole food because it is natural and not imitation, it still packs a lot of sugar into a small amount. However, because the flavor is so much richer than the imitation stuff, you can get away with using less. Try adding some chopped walnuts on top of your pancakes along with the syrup for a little protein punch!

Pancakes Since we are talking syrup, let’s talk pancakes.

A great syrup deserves a great pancake! There are so many varieties that we can think of – how about serving one with a holiday flare such as Egg Nog pancakes or Pumpkin pancakes? Let the true flavor of the holidays shine through with something different this holiday season.

Pumpkin Pancakes Ingredients 1 ½ cups of skim milk 1 cup pumpkin puree 1 egg 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vinegar 2 cups all-purpose flour 3 tablespoons brown sugar 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon allspice 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground ginger ½ teaspoon salt Directions In a bowl mix together the milk, pumpkin, oil and vinegar. Combine the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, allspice, cinnamon, ginger and salt in a separate bowl. Stir into the pumpkin mixture just enough to combine. Heat a griddle to 325 degrees, or a frying pan to medium high heat. Use about ¼ cup batter per pancake – brown on both sides and serve hot. j

“For it is in giving that we receive.”

– Francis of Assisi Page 6 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

eating well

Fun With Food F or many families, sitting down to a meal together is a dreaded event. The pleasant experience is spoiled by an intense power struggle with our children. Ethan ate carrots yesterday but refuses today. Ava won’t eat anything green.

Caleb likes yogurt, but only a certain flavor of a certain brand (and don’t try to trick him by reusing the container). A few simple strategies can help lessen mealtime battles, whether you’re just starting your parenting journey with an infant or are already deeply entrenched in the challenging preschool years.

do you have

C.O.P.D.?

Volunteers Needed

iarity with the new food, their suspicion begins to wane. Pair familiar foods with new foods that are similar in shape, color, texture, and/or taste. If your child loves fried chicken nuggets, try offering grilled nuggets.

As you lead your child through his food journey, be prepared to be a good food model yourself.

Children learn by imitation and seeing you enjoying a variety of foods may be encouragement enough to convince your child that carrots aren’t poisonous. Watch out for the pitfalls of active encouragement and bribery. Telling your child Children arrive pre-programmed to put everything she can have ice cream after she eats her brocin their mouths. By age one, many children are coli sends the message that dessert is great and independently mobile and will seek out the most eating broccoli is an unpleasant task that must dangerous, dirty, and unappetizing objects, seem- be endured, not enjoyed. Try a bit of reverse psying to lack the ability to discern a piece of candy chology, telling your child, “I’m so glad you didn’t from a handful of sand. Seize this once in a touch your peas. Pass them over.” Your child lifetime opportunity to present the foods you want may find it hard to resist a challenge like this, but, your child to like. be prepared follow through and eat them yourself if he doesn’t! j Children also have an innate need for variety.

Between ages one and two, children are refining Elisabeth Moody MS CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist their ability to control the adults in their lives. A Brooks Rehabilitation Pediatric Center, Johns child who eats and loves green beans one day Creek but refuses the next is forcing his parents to Elisabeth.moody@brooksrehab.org provide more variety.

Following the stages of mouthing with abandon and insistence on variety often comes a phase of extremely cautious eating at age two. Remember the rule of 15. Offer new foods at least 15 times, just not at every meal. As your child builds famil-

“Giving opens the way for receiving.”

– Florence Scovel Shinn

Jacksonville Center for Clinical Research is conducting a 52 week clinical trial of an investigational medication for COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease).

You may be eligible to participate if you: are at least 40 years of age have been diagnosed with COPD are a current or former smoker Eligible persons will receive study-related medical exams and study medication at no cost while participating in the study. Compensation will also be provided for time and travel.

For more information about the risks and benefits of this program, call: JACKSONVILLE CENTER FOR CLINICAL RESEARCH (904) 730-0166 www.jaxresearch.com

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health & safety

All About Sports: Snowboarding - From

Humble Beginnings to Soaring Heights

E

arly History

One of the newest sports, snowboarding is very similar to surfing, skateboarding, and skiing.

Therefore, it is not surprising that the origin of snowboarding lies in these sports. Although it is hard to pinpoint the pioneer of snowboarding, it was created around the 1950s by a few surf and skate enthusiasts who used self-made boards to convey their skills to a new terrain: the snow. At that time, due to the novelty of the snowboards, those contraptions often resulted in many broken boards and a lot of bruises.

Olympic debuts at the Nagano Games in 1998 with giant slalom and halfpipe competitions. The discipline proved an instant success and returned to Salt Lake City four years later with parallel giant slalom and halfpipe competitions.

Today At Torino, snowboarding make its third Olympic appearance. The sport, which first appeared at the 1998 Nagano Games, is still a work in progress as events are changed and added. For

Snowboarding was popularized in the United States in the 1960s as people across the country began to seek out new winter activities. Over the next decade, various pioneers boosted the production of boards and the sport began to gain crossover appeal. Surfers and skateboarders became involved, and by 1980, snowboarding was a nationwide activity.

In 1983, less than 10 percent of ski areas in the U.S. allowed snowboarding. Today, snowboarding is the fastest growing winter sport in the U.S., and more than 3.4 million people snowboard. This number comprises about 20% of the visitors to U.S. ski resorts. Further, the number of people who snowboard is predicted to overtake skiing by 2015.

Mountain Conflict In the late 1970s snowboarders started to “invade” traditional ski resorts, but faced opposition from skiers who tried to exclude the snowboarders from “their” mountains. By the 1990s, however, almost all ski resorts had accepted snowboarding, and the resorts have found the snowboarders to be an excellent source of new revenue.

Getting Organized Competition was the next logical step. The United States held its first national championships in 1982 and hosted the first World Championships in 1983. The International Snowboarding Federation (ISF) formed seven years later and the International Ski Federation (FIS) introduced snowboarding as a FIS discipline in 1994. This helped pave the way for snowboarding’s inclusion in the Olympic Winter Games.

Olympic Debut Men’s and women’s snowboarding made their

the 2006 Games, a new event, snowboard cross was added.

There are six snowboarding events: men’s and women’s halfpipe, men’s and women’s parallel giant slalom, and men’s and women’s snowboard cross.

Snowboarding’s acrobatic maneuvers were taken to new heights by Shaun White at the 2010 Winter Olympics. White dazzled spectators in Vancouver when he stuck two consecutive double corks in the halfpipe competition. His Double McTwist1260 on his victory lap secured his place in snowboarding history. The maneuvers performed at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics showed the world that snowboarders were among the most talented athletes on earth. j

Page 8 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

Things to Do Health Events

Running Buddy Registration Thru December 6 A Girls on the Running Buddy helps one of our girls complete both the Practice 5K and our end-of-the-season Girls on the Run 5K on December 6th starting at 8am at The University of North Florida. To become a Running Buddy, read through the questions on the website and then register online. Running Buddies, are chaperones for the run, and need to be at least 18 years or older.

Early Bird Registration: Now through November 14th; $20 for 18 and older $10 under 18 Regular Registration: November 15th-December 4th; $30 for 18 and older $10 under 18.

Day or Registration: December 6th only; $40 for 18 and older $10 under 18.

Girls Inc / 904-329-3897 / www.girlsincjax.org

Reindeer Run December 7, 7am to 12noon The Reindeer Run features a half-marathon, 5k, and a kids 1 mile, 1/2 mile and 100yd dash. Other features include musical Christmas entertainment on the route, Kids Zone with free atrs and crafts and bounces houses, chocolate milk and holiday cookies and treats for all participants, Christmas costume contest, special reindeer bib lottery, new hoofs drawing (shoes), and more. The Half/5K Race Start Time: 7am, Kids Race Times: 10am for the 1 Mile; 10:15am for the 1/2 Mile; and 10:30am for the 100 Yard Dash. Kids fun run fees are $5 and 5k fees range from $20-$25.

Proceeds benefit The Healthy Families Program, Friends of Ft. Clinch and Amelia Island Runners Youth Running Program and Girl Power 2 Cure.

Amelia Island Runners / Main Beach Park, 32 North Fletcher Avenue, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 / www.ameliarunners.com Santa Suits on the Loose 5K December 13, 8am to 12noon The 5K run/jog/walk will be held at the St. Augustine Beach Pier. Sign-Up quickly to receive a Santa Suit for the event. Guaranteed for first 300 adult registrants. Children will receive a Santa inspired shirt. Children in strollers do not have to register. Registration fees are $35. This is a charitable event benefiting the St. Augustine Youth Services. RaceSmith / St. Augustine Beach Pier, 350 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www.racesmith.com Festival of Lights 5K and Fun Run December 13, 5:30pm The Festival of Lights 5K will be held the same evening as San Marco’s Holiday Magic. The 5K and 1 Mile will both start and finish on San Marco Blvd. in the Square. This event will feature: Carolers, Bell Ringers, Pictures with Santa Clause, Horse Drawn Sleigh Rides, The Little Train That Could Rides, Children’s Bounce Games, Jugglers, Toy Soldier Stilt Walkers, Christmas Tree Lighting, Food and Drinks, Christmas Music, Jingle Bells for Your Shoes, and more. The race will be held at night, but the entire 5K course will be lined with luminaries. Entry fees range from $25 to $35 for the 5K, and $12 for the 1 mile fun run. Medals to all children 13 and under in the one mile fun run. There will also be a Kid’s area with lots of activities. 5K at 6pm, 1 Mile at 5:30pm; 5K

Strollers & Walkers at 6:10pm.

Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals is encouraging all participants to pledge to raise funds for the pediatric programs at UF Health Jacksonville and Wolfson Children’s Hospital.

You can support the hospitals by purchasing a special “I run for the kids” package including a glow in the dark bracelet and car sticker for $10.

1st Place Sports / San Marco Square, 1999 San Marco Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.1stplacesports.com Flash Dash 5K December 20, 8am The Flash Dash 5K is a fundraiser to benefit St. Joseph Academy Athletics. Participants are invited to stay after the race for refreshments, music, and the Florida State Catholic Championship Basketball Tournament. Registration is $10 for all students, and $20 to $25 for all others. The 5k course starts and ends at St. Joseph Academy.

RaceSmith / St. Joseph’s Academy, 155 SR 207 St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.racesmith.com Bike Hikes December 22, 9am to 10am and 10am to 11am Bring your bike for this ride along the Rails Trail.

Ages 16 and under must wear helmets.

City of Jacksonville / Camp Milton Trail Head at Jacksonville-Baldwin Rails Trails, 1175 Halsema Road North, Jacksonville, FL 32220 / www.coj.net Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.

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Things to Do

nature

Bartram’s Travels L ast month we focused on the history of Fort Caroline but the historical field trip opportunities don’t stop there. Nearly 250 years ago, the famous naturalist John Bartram was given a stipend by King George III to explore and document the ecology of Florida.

He set out on the St. Johns River with his son William, who later also establish himself as an accomplished naturalist and artist. Throughout their eight week journey, John documented plants, soils, and animals in his journal and William made sketches of their observations. You can visit UNF’s Florida History Online website (www.unf.edu/

floridahistoryonline) to learn about this journey and read excerpts from Bartram’s journal. This fantastic website includes a map, aerial photos and descriptions of the places where the Bartram’s most likely camped and explored.

On December 22, 1765, it is believed that John and William Bartram camped on the banks of the St. Johns in the area of today’s Walter Jones Historic Park in Mandarin. This hidden gem is also the location of the Mandarin Museum (www. mandarinmuseum.net) which includes artifacts from the Civil War steamboat Maple Leaf and renowned writer Harriet Beecher Stowe’s life. On December 6, 2014 Mandarin Museum will be hosting the 15th annual Winter Celebration from 11a.m. to 4 p.m. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the park, experience the museum, and celebrate our local history. j

Jennie Busey Education Director St. Johns Riverkeeper www.stjohnsriverkeeper.org 904.256.7022

Photo credit: Wikipedia.org by Howard Pyle

Florida Wildlife: Florida Box Turtle F lorida has a variety of interesting animals, and one reptile that is of particular interest is the Florida Box Turtle (Terrapene Carolina bauri).

Turtles all share the characteristic of having a shell, but unique to some turtles, including the Florida Box Turtle, is the presence of a hinge on the plastron. This allows the turtle to firmly shut its shell, thus allowing for more protection. These turtles range along the Florida peninsula and often inhabit wooded areas, wet meadows, and flood plains. They will often dig shallow holes, and you may find them enjoying a soak in a puddle after a recent rain.

Breeding occurs during the spring season with a clutch size of 3 to 8 eggs. Life expectancy of a Florida Box Turtle can range from 80-100 years!

Turtle is currently a protected species due to its decline in population resulting from the pet trade.

If you should happen to see a Florida Box Turtle or other native reptile in the wild, please respect the animal and its space as it may be busy searching for its next meal or shelter. The Education Department has its own collection of Florida Box Turtles including an adult named Teresa and 3 juveniles hatched last year named Beaker, Eggbert, and Scuter. These animals help represent the species at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens and act as an Education Animal Ambassadors. Be sure to check out the Zoo’s upcoming holiday camps, and you might just have your own chance to meet our box turtles and many other amazing animals! j

The Florida Box

Page 9 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

Nature Events

SEA’s 3rd Annual Rails to Trails Festival December 5-6 The Gullah Geechee Corridor is the focus of the festival by SEA Community Help Resource Center. On Friday from 5pm to 9pm and Saturday from 10am to 4pm enjoy fun walks and bike rides, arts and crafts, homecooking, farmer’s market and more. Free admission.

SEA Community / 904-806-3939 / The Gullah Geechee Corridor, 4950 Harvey Avenue, St. Augustine, FL 32033 / www.seachrc.org Full Moon Beach Stroll December 5, 4:30pm to 5:15pm Join a Ranger for this full moon beach stroll.

All ages welcome, minors must be accompanied by an adult. The stroll will leave from the beachside day use pavilion and visitors will learn about fun and interesting moon facts and the effects of the moon on the tidal ecosystem.

Some strolls will offer a choice for visitors to take a short stroll to learn about the coastal ecosystem, or participate in a longer hike while discussing various myths, mysteries, and mysticism of the full moon throughout the centuries. Please bring water and dress for the weather. Bring a camera for photo opportunities. Visitors will have the option to walk for exercise or focus on an educational portion with minimal walking. Please register online or call 386-517-2086 for questions, assistance or to RSVP. RSVP is required and you must register every person in your party. Free with park admission.

Florida State Parks / Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area, 3100 S Oceanshore Blvd Flagler Beach, FL 32136 / www.floridastateparks.org Camp Tomahawk December 6, 8am Come prepared for an easy hike along shady trails with dense undergrowth. The park has a few fun loop paths that cross over and back a part of Goodby’s Creek that extends into the park. The paths are well-shaded and cool, and

“No one has ever become poor by giving.”

– Anne Frank

appropriate for all ages/athletic capabilities.

Meeting Place: Meet in the parking lot at 8am.

Camp Tomahawk is at 8419 San Ardo Road, off San Clerc Road which is between San Jose and Old Kings Road. Contact Inez Whipple, 484769-3816 with any questions.

Duval Audobon Society / Camp Tomahawk / 8419 San Ardo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / www.duvalaudubon.org Girl Scout Cadettes Workshop: Trees December 13, 9am to 11am In this workshop, scouts will learn to identify the age, leaves, and fruit of different trees through classroom discussion and projects. The workshop is from 9am to 1am. and is $12 per scout. Register online at www.themosh.org.

MOSH /904-396-MOSH / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.themosh.org Christmas at the Nature Center December 13, 3pm to 6pm Come to the Nature Center for holiday crafts, hayrides, and a campfire. All ages are welcome to join in the holiday fun. Pay at park office.

Admission is $2 and parking is $5.

Crooked River State Park / 912-882-5256 / 6222 Charlie Smith Sr. Highway St. Marys, GA 31558 / www.gastateparks.org Telltale Teeth December 22, 1pm to 2pm Learn how an animal’s teeth can give clues as to whether it’s a carnivore, omnivore or herbivore. Meet at Education Center at Camp Milton Historic Preserve.

City of Jacksonville / Camp Milton Historic Preserve, 1175 Halsema Road North, Jacksonville, FL 32220 / www.coj.net

Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.

infant & toddler

Treating Your Cold Naturally I t is basic knowledge that antibiotics cannot cure the common cold and should be avoided unless there is a true source of infection. Most illnesses that you or your child may get are likely viral illnesses. Many over the counter medications are not approved for children and many people are seeking natural remedies instead of putting foreign chemicals into their bodies. Working at an integrative practice, we have come to know and understand the power of homeopathy and would like to share that with you so that you can battle your next cold naturally. Below are supplements and herbs that may be used at the first sign of viral illness to help shorten the duration of the illness. You don’t have to use all of them at once, pick and choose which remedies are right for you. For dosing instructions, please contact your health care provider.keep in mind while you’re shopping this holiday season.

healing properties. It may be used to treat bronchitis, colds and upset stomach and fever.

Tumeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory. Tumeric may be taken in capsule form or made into a tea.

Probiotics help to put the good bacteria in your gut. 70% of your immune system lives in your gut and by taking probiotics, you can help to ensure that your gut it healthy enough to battle the current infection. Probiotics may be taken in powder or capsule form. Probiotics may be found in good quality yogurt or kefir.

Honey can be used as a natural cough syrup. It helps to coat the throat and decrease the “tickle” that causes the cough. It may be added to tea also to aid in cough and sore throat.

We hope that next time you can battle your cold naturally! j

Zinc is a mineral that is essential for a healthy Brooke Holway, ARNP immune system, synthesizing DNA, healing wounds and proper growth during childhood. Zinc Pediatric Associates of Jacksonville help to regulate T cells in our body; T cells help to www.doctorojax.com regulate our immune response and attack infected or cancerous cells. Zinc lozenges or syrup help to shorten the duration of the common cold when taken within 24 hours of symptoms.

Zinc only needs to be taken in small dosages to see the effects, be sure to use only under the supervision of your health care provider for proper dosage and duration of treatment.

Vitamin C is a highly effective antioxidant and lessens oxidative stress in the body. It is found in high concentrations in our immune cells. Extra vitamin C may be taken during a viral illness in powder or chewable form.

Elderberry extract or sambucus is an herb with powerful antiviral properties. This herb may be used to treat the flu, colds, yeast infections, nasal and chest congestion. This may be found in liquid form or lozenges at your local health food store.

Echinacea is an herb that is used to fight infections including the common cold and other upper respiratory symptoms. Echinacea helps to shorten the duration of illness when taken at the first sign of illness. Echinacea comes in many forms such as tablets, juice and tea.

Raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar has many uses. The nature of this article can only briefly describe its benefits. It has natural antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties. It also helps to thin mucus. It may be used to make a tea with honey and lemon or may be taken diluted with water alone.

Tumeric or curcumin is a plant that has many

Page 10 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

Things to Do Infant & Toddler Rebounderz Toddler Tuesdays December 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30, 9:30am to 11:30am This will be a 2 hour session open to ages 5 and under only. Toddlers will be able to wear their athletic shoes, parents will be required to wear jump socks. Pricing is $8 per toddler and one adult may accompany the child on the jumper for free.

Additional children will be $8 even if they don’t have an accompanying adult. No additional discounts will apply.

Rebounderz / 904-300-0070 / 14985 Old St. Augustine Road Jacksonville, Florida 32258 / rebounderzjacksonville.com Community CPR/AED Thursday, December 4th, 6pm - 9pm

This course offers certification in Community CPR and includes instruction and certification in Adult, Child & Infant CPR. Includes AED and Choking. Certification is through ASHI (American Safety & Health Institute). Course cost is $40. Register online at www.safetyfirstjax.com Child Safety Seat Installation Inspections December 6, 8am to 10am December 20, 8am to 10am Child safety seat installation inspections will be performed at Fire Station 2 located at 2500 South Beach Parkway on Saturday, December 6, 2014 from 8am until 10am. City of Jacksonville Beach / Fire Station 2, 2500 South Beach Parkway, Jacksonville Beach, 32250 / www.jacksonvillebeach.org Little Learners-The Alien Who Stole Christmas & Science Show December 10, 9am to 11am Bring your little ones to MOSH the second Wednesday of every month for exclusive programming for preschoolaged children and their caregivers.Doors open at 9am and The Alien Who Stole Christmas is at 10am in the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium and Extreme Science! Is at 11am. Admission is only $5 per person (ages 3 & up).

Register online at www.themosh.org.

MOSH / 904-396-MOSH / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.themosh.org/Home.html Free Nemours Brightstart Screenings December 16, 10am to 12:30pm Children ages 3-5 are invited to receive a free, 10-minute Early Literacy Screening at the library, courtesy of Nemours BrightStart. Registration is taken on a first-come, first-serve basis by a Nemours representative. Utilize this free screening to find out where your child’s literacy strengths lie, and what you can do to help them improve in any other areas before they start school.

Ponte Vedra Beach Branch Library / 904-827-6950 / 101 Library Blvd. Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www. sjcpls.org If You Give A Mouse A Cookie December 16, 10:15am to 10:45am The mouse from If You Give A Mouse A Cookie will be appearing for a very special holiday storytime. You’ll have a chance to meet the Cookie Mouse and get a photo taken. This program is intended for children from birth – 5 years and their families.Bradham and Brooks Branch / 904-765-5402 / 1755 Edgewood Avenue West, Jacksonville, FL 32208 / http://jpl.coj.net Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.

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Page 11 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

Special needs Gumball Grab is a game that teaches children correct pencil grip, matching colors, counting and hand-eye coordination. Your kids won’t realize how much they are learning because they will be having so much fun playing this game. They will be developing the muscle control and grip they need to get ready to write. $29.99 www. lakeshorelearning.com

Gift Guide The Screw Block by Guidecraft is a simple yet great manipulative toy for developing handeye coordination, fine motor skills and color matching. Children will stay focused as they try to screw in the pieces with their hands or the screwdriver as their skill level increases. $14.95 www.guidecraft.com

Learning how to call 911 and their parents is a must for children of all ages. Learning Resources has the Pretend & Play® Teaching Telephone® that is programmable for the phone numbers your child needs to learn. One of the best features of this phone is that children get rewarded for dialing your programmed number with a message you record! This phone is great toy to also help children develop language and conversation with pretend play. $39.99 www.learningresources.com

The Bazoongi 48” Trampoline with bar is a necessity for any child that needs sensory input.

These trampolines come with a handle bar for safety and stability. Your kids will bounce for hours not realizing that they are working their core muscles and getting some awesome sensory feedback! $75.25 (varies by color) www.Amazon.com

There are so many possibilities with the Melissa and Doug Felt Food Sandwich Set, white bread, wheat bread, sub roll or even a pita! This mix ‘n match set can help children develop several skills like sequencing, auditory processing and even memory. $19.99 www.melissaanddoug.com

Your children will work on developing so many skills with the Babies R Us Shape Time Activity Farm. Hand-eye coordination, motor planning, sorting, matching, the list goes on and on. One of the best features is the locking system that allows children to use the shape with its specific key to unlock the doors to retrieve the blocks or whatever item you choose to put behind the doors. $9.99 www.toysrus.com

Page 12 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

With the Hape Pound and Tap Bench your child will be making sweet music while developing so many skills at the same time. A great feature is that the xylophone can be pulled out and your child can tap directly on the keys as well. They will learn rhythm and melody along with fine motor skills and problem solving. $29.99 www. hape.com

The Learn to Dress Monkey and Kitty from Alex Toys is going to help develop so many important fine motor skills. They will practice buttoning, work with snaps, hook and loop, buckles, learn to tie, zipper and more! The dolls’ clothes are removable for also learning how to

dress and undress. Your child can practice putting on the socks and lace-up sneakers for even more skill development. Everything including the dolls are washable too! $43.95 www.alextoys.com

The Mindware Imagination Magnets come with 42 colorful, magnetic wood blocks and 50 full-colored designs to replicate. The magnetic whiteboard can be used with dry erase markers so your child can draw a background for their creations. Your child will be working on fine motor and visual thinking skills as well as developing creativity! $29.99 www.target.com

The Hoberman Sphere Rainbow is as awesome as it looks! The sphere will expand from 9.5” to 30” as your child throws it, kicks, rolls it or does whatever they want to do with it. This toy was created to inspire children to use their imagination. It can also help children who need calming to visualize deep breathing as it closes and expands. You can also purchase it in a mini size to keep those fidgety hands and minds busy during car trips! $29.24 www.walmart.com

Special needs

Holidays With Special Needs Children

T

he holidays are such a special time, creating family memories and traditions which will stay with children the rest of their lives. Holiday crowds, lights, noise, strangers, hugging, change in routine; for some special needs children, this might be a recipe for stress and sensory overload. Traditions and rituals may not work with special needs children. As parents, we need to be flexible with our own definition of what a holiday should look like. All children can benefit from this exercise and for those with Autism, Asperger’s, or Sensory Processing issues, self-regulating can be the way to go.

to faces to reduce stress.

Holidays can be busy times, as interacting with many people, giving presents, traveling, etc. This can mean skipping on nap time or making the child overtly tired. Child then can lead to hitting a melting point. Give the child as much quite time away from these activities as they might need.

With shopping, try to avoid taking the children shopping on the busiest shopping days of the year. Child room should be in a safe place for child to reenergize.

As these special occasions happen few times Many special needs children are used to routine, during the year, parents are sometimes may plan structure and consistency. Making a schedule for to have a “perfect” holiday. Parents might try to these children in advance such as days, hours, or do everything in there will power to help create even minutes before changes was to happen that for the child. This might cause trying to rush while help prepare to what is to happen. Give thru events or even going over the budget. them a clipboard or dry erase board. Talking Creating a To-Do lists together and schedule about the event will prevent a meltdowns and plenty of time between events to help savor each anxiety in the child. Allowing the child to place moment. Let the child do one thing for the holiday things on the list makes them feel involved. that makes them feel proud. For example, Encourage them to add happy words like laugh or drawing a special picture for the guest’s chair or draw a smile face on their list. helping to decorate the room for a party. Relaxing and enjoying the experience together can be Most children have an attachment to favorite worth a lifetime of memories! blanket, stuffed animal, toy, or other item. Child should have a backpack filled with these comfort- Using relaxation techniques such as deep ing items, especially if traveling. These items will breathing or coping strategies should be give the child a sense of familiarity and make incorporated into the day. Let the children see you them feel grounded and secure. use these techniques during stress. This will allow them to use breathing, visualizing, and As expended families get together, there will be positive thinking are power tools. Practice, unfamiliar faces which the child has not seen practice, practice… j before. It is important for these visitors to give Dr.Yesha Modi the child time to warm up and re-establish a connection. Waiting few minutes after the visitors Pediatric Associates of Jacksonville www.doctorOjax.com have arrived and approaching the child slowly 1102 A1A North, Unit 104 * Ponte Vedra Beach, with warm interaction will help create a better FL 32082 * 904-273-6533 interaction result than invasion into personal 4745 Sutton Park Court, Suite 801 * Jacksonville, space. Looking through photos of relatives prior FL 32224 * 904-743-2100 to your event if gathering involved rarely seen 1633 Race Track Road, Suite 103 * Jacksonville, relatives. Play memory matching games names FL 32259 * 904-287-7000

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Page 13 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

Things to Do Special Needs

Sensory Friendly Films – Penguins of Madagascar December 5, 10am AMC Entertainment (AMC) and ASA have teamed up to bring families affected by autism and other disabilities a special opportunity to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment on a monthly basis. Lights are brought up, sound is turned down, and families are allowed to bring their own snacks. Movies are shown at the AMC Regency 24 in the Regency Center Square. www.amctheatres.com/programs/ sensory-friendly-films / 904-725-0885 / 9451 Regency Square Blvd The ARC - Running of The Bulls 5K December 6, 8:30am – 12pm The Arc Jacksonville will host its Running of The Bulls 5K. This new event borrows its theme from the famous “Encierro,” or The Running of The Bulls, held each July in Pamplona, Spain. The Arc Jacksonville’s Running of The Bulls 5K starting gate will be at Hemming Plaza. Participants will be chased through the streets of Downtown Jacksonville by members of the Jacksonville RollerGirls who will show no mercy! Those who have survived will be rewarded with a celebratory after party featuring drinks, food, music and more. www.arcjacksonville.org / 904-355-0155 / Held at, Hemming Plaza, 135 W Monroe St Caring Santa December 7, 9am – 10:30am Caring Santa will be at The Avenues and Orange Park Malls on December 7th. This is a special event dedicated to families that have children with special needs, providing a subdued environment to visit the Santa Photo Experience.

Many steps are taken to reduce sensory triggers – music turned off near the Santa set, nearby escalators shut down and lights dimmed – all creating a more comforting experience for the children’s magical visit with Santa. shoptheavenues.com / 904-363-3054 / The Avenues: 10300 Southside Blvd orangeparkmall.com / 904-269-9413 / Orange Park Mall: 1910 Wells Rd

Every 2nd Friday of each month children on the Autism Spectrum or with Sensory Integration Disorder can participate in a sensory jump.

Parents can network with other families, while the kids enjoy playing. www.pumpitupparty.com / 904-646-1441 / 11840 Beach Blvd Suite 10 Nathaniel’s Hope Buddy Break December 13, 9am – 12pm Buddy Break is held the second Saturday of every month. It is a free kids/respite program where children with special needs (VIP kids) make new friends, play fun games, enjoy crafts, therapy dogs, stories, music activities, and more.

Siblings have fun too. Meanwhile, their caregivers get a break from their ongoing care-giving responsibilities for three hours. Each VIP kid is paired one-on-one with a screened volunteer “Buddy” to participate in that day’s activities. www.deermeadows.org / 904-302-9766 / Deermeadows Baptist Church, 9780 Baymeadows Road www.raifordroadchurch.org / 904-259-6015 / Raiford Road Church, 9201 South State Road 121 Henderson Haven – Mom’s Day Off December 13, 9am – 3pm Henderson Haven is offering a Mom’s Day off on select Saturdays for children with developmental disabilities. Children will participate in crafts and spend time with their peers and the experienced staff. The cost is $30. You must reserve your place ahead of time by checking the Program Calendar on the website. Reservations will be accepted between the Monday after the current scheduled day and the Wednesday before the next one. www.hendersonhaven.org / 904-264-2522 / 772 Foxridge Center Dr

UF Holiday Reading Camp Dec 22- 24, Registration Deadline Dec 3 Dec 29 – 31, Registration Deadline Dec 8 The UF Developmental Pediatric Center is pleased to offer individualized, intensive reading intervention during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. UF Developmental Pediatrics’ Masterful Reader program provides research-based, scientifically proven reading instruction tailored to meet your child’s needs at an affordable price. If your child is struggling in areas such as phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency and/or comprehension, they can help. All sessions are one-on-one with a qualified tutor.

UF CARD - An Evening with Santa Each session is 45 minutes – 1 hour, depending December 11, 5:30pm – 8pm on the child’s age. Each 3-day block of sessions Join the UF Developmental Pediatric staff as is $105. An initial one-time reading evaluation is they host An Evening with Santa. Join the required for all Masterful Reader students. This celebration as the halls ring with cheer, enjoy holiday snacks, crafts, and activities in a friendly, provides us with the necessary data to individuaccepting environment. Also, remember to bring alize instruction. Initial reading evaluations are $200 and must be conducted prior to reading your wish list for Santa’s mailbox and your instruction. Enroll today, as space is limited. For camera to capture all of the special memories.

For more information email autumn.mauch@jax. more information regarding the program or to register, please contact Carrie Fagen at (904) ufl.edu.

633-0769 or here. www.hscj.ufl.edu/pediatrics/autism / 904-633www.hscj.ufl.edu/pediatrics/autism / 904-6330760 / 6271 St. Augustine Rd, Suite 1 0760 / 6271 St Augustine Rd, Suite 1 Sensory Jump at Pump It Up December 12 Visit Jax4Kids.com for more 9:30am – 10:50am and 7:30pm – 11:00pm event listings.

teens

Synthetic Drugs: The Big Fat Lie that is Killing Our Kids M arketed to teens and young adults as a natural and safer alternative to pot, synthetic drugs are posing a highly dangerous threat.

made with toxic chemicals and the combinations change all the time. The makers push their products on our kids by using bright packages and cartoon characters.

Since its emergence on the drug scene a few years ago, synthetic marijuana (MJ)—often called “Spice” or “K2”—has become the second most popular illegal drug among American teenagers, after MJ.

What should parents do to protect their children from the dangers of synthetic drugs? The Partnership for Drug Free Kids lists these tips:

Especially popular among teenage boys, it is often touted as a “natural,” “safe,” and (until recently) legal alternative to pot, according to The National Institute on Drug Abuse. Despite its “natural” façade, this very un-natural class of designer chemicals has shown itself to be a dangerous threat.

“Thousands of teens and young adults, mostly young males, are ending up in emergency rooms with severe symptoms that may include vomiting, racing heartbeat, elevated blood pressure, seizures, or hallucinations,” as stated by The National Institute on Drug Abuse.

Synthetic cannabinoids, commonly known as “synthetic marijuana,” “K2,” or “Spice”, are often sold in legal retail outlets as “herbal incense” or “potpourri”, and synthetic cathinones are often sold as “bath salts” or “jewelry cleaner”. They are labeled “not for human consumption” to mask their intended purpose and avoid Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulatory oversight of the manufacturing process.

Synthetic cannabinoids are man-made chemicals that are applied (often sprayed) onto plant material and marketed as a “legal” high. Users claim that synthetic cannabinoids mimic Δ9tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive active ingredient in marijuana.

The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office encourages you to educate your children about the dangers of K-2, Spice, Molly and Other Synthetic Drugs. It’s addictive, it’s poisonous, it can kill you and it’s illegal. Spice and K-2 is worse than a drug; it’s

• Make observations. Note changes in your teen’s usual behavior, appearance, personal habits, health, and school work.

• Keep track. Note (in your head or in a journal) when and how often your teen breaks the rules or does something suspicious.

• Search for drugs and drug paraphernalia.

Some parents are against “snooping,” while others believe they have the right to look through their children’s things. There is no correct answer, but if you want to collect concrete evidence of your child’s drug use before your intervention, here are some good places to look: dresser drawers, desk drawers, backpacks, the glove compartment of the car, the back of closets, corners of bed sheets, under the mattress or bed, small boxes, books/bookcases, makeup cases, over-the-counter medicine bottles, and empty candy wrappers.

• Talk with your spouse/partner. If your teen’s other parent or caregiver does not share the same beliefs and values that you do when it comes to drugs, you will certainly hear about it from your kid. So get on the same page as your spouse or partner before you intervene with your child.

• Recognize the significance of addiction in your family. For some, trying drugs or alcohol once or twice is just part of the teen experience. But if there is a history of addiction in your family, your child is much more likely than other kids to become addicted.j www.drugfree.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/ Intervention_Guide.pdf www.narconon.org www.drugabuse.gov

“Let us not be satisfied with just giving money.

Money is not enough, money can be got, but they need your hearts to love them. So, spread your love everywhere you go.”

– Mother Teresa Page 14 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

Things to Do Teens

Teen Gaming Night December 3, 5pm to 7pm Teens (Ages 13-18) are invited to have fun with friends at the library. Play “E” and “T”-rated games on our PlayStation 3, Nintendo WiiU, Nintendo Wii, or X-Box 360 set up on three TVs for simultaneous playing. Don’t worry about waiting for a turn - there will be board games to play. Snacks will be provided.

Ponte Vedra Beach Branch Library / 904-8276950 / 101 Library Blvd. Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.sjcpls.org Red-Cross Certified Lifeguard Training December 10-18 Red-Cross Certified Lifeguard Training at the Jewish Community Alliance. Participants must be at least 15 years old. Visit the website for list of other pre-requisites. Contact the Aquatics Department at ext. 240 with any questions.

Fee is $285 for non-members; and $190 for members.

Certification Dates: December 10, 6:30pm to 9:30pm (pre-test and first day of class); December 11, 6:30pm to 9:30pm December 14, 10am to 5pm December 15, 16, 17, 18, 6:30pm to 9:30pm Jewish Community Alliance / 904-730-2100 / 8505 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / www.jcajax.org Hour of Code December 11, 6pm to 7pm South Mandarin library will host the “Hour of Code” which is a global movement with the aim of reaching tens of millions of students in 180+ countries. During Computer Science Education Week (December 8-14, 2014), libraries everywhere will host “Hour of Code” activities including hour-long tutorials featuring Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates, Angry Birds, and Plants vs. Zombies, designed to show that anyone can learn the basics. Held in the Electronic Classroom. Contact Bryan Thomas at 904-288-6385 with any questions.

South Mandarin Branch Library / 904-288-6385 / 12125 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / www.jpl.coj.net Shrinky Dink Art and Ornaments For Teens December 19, 4pm to 5:30pm Discover the Art and Science behind Shrinky Dinks using recycled plastic to make holiday art and ornaments. Holiday Craft Program for ages 12 to 17. Held in Room B. Contact Carisia Rooney at crooney@coj.net or 904-996-0325 x4 with any questions.

Southeast Regional Branch / 904-996-0325 / 10599 Deerwood Park Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / www.jpl.coj.net

Babysitters Training Course December 23, 9am to 3:30pm Learn to prepare for an emergency if home alone or babysitting in this one-day class. Valuable safety tips, basic CPR and first aid skills will be reviewed. For ages 10 to 15.

Jewish Community Alliance / 904-730-2100 / 8505 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / www.jcajax.org My Life In Rhymes December 27, 12noon to 2pm Tonya Smart, founder of the Jax Youth Poetry Slam and a host of SPEAK UP! will lead free workshops on poetic autobiographies. Start with a timeline and visual history, delve into copyrighting and self-publishing, and end up with a book. Participate in 12 poetry projects exploring writing and performance. You may have an opportunity to share your work at the Brave New Voices International Poetry Festival.

Ages 12 – 18. Call 904-502-7444 for information and to register.

Main Library / 904-630-2665 / 303 North Laura Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jpl.coj. net Publix Aprons Teen Food Fight December 29 – 30, 4pm If your teen can’t get enough of competitive cooking shows on TV, then they will love this 2-day cooking boot camp where your teen will get to see what it’s like to take part in one. They will learn on day one knife skills & safety, basic cooking techniques, flavor profiling and dish conception. Day two will consist of the students (guided by professional chefs) team competing for the bragging rights of Best Dish. Menu: Day 1 - Italian-Style Braised Pork with Creamy Polenta; Grilled Skirt with Chimichurri; Pan Seared Salmon with Mustard Glaze; Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Day 2 - Food Fight!

Cost is $80 and registration is available online on a first come, first served basis.

Publix Aprons Cooking School / 904-262-4187 / 10500 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, Florida 32257 / www.publix.com/aprons Marvel Movie Madness December 30, 2pm to 4pm Teens are invited for a free showing of Captain America: The Winter Soldier in the Community Room at the Mandarin Branch Library.

Mandarin Branch / 904-262-5201/ 3330 Kori Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.jpl.coj.net

Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.

Teen Idol Dalton Cyr Returns To Jacksonville for ONE SHOW ONLY Noon Year’s Eve at the Jacksonville Zoo

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acksonville’s own Dalton Cyr will return from Los Angeles, California where he’s been living since August, to perform at the Jacksonville

Zoo and Garden’s Noon Year’s Eve event.

Last year, this teen recording artist rocked our Zoo’s Noon Year’s Eve event…and he has agreed to return again this year. This will be his ONLY

the last few years and now that he is in Los Angeles, we expect to see even more coming from this young man. Dalton’s fans are in 149 countries around the world; this is your kids chance to see him perform live and up close!

Due to release a new CD for the holidays, you’ll be able to hear his new hit songs along with fan favorites from his first CD, “I’ll Be There.” Dalton will be sticking around for free autographs and pictures after his performance. He’ll also have merchandise available for purchase at the event. Connect with Dalton @DaltonCyr on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; on You Tube at youtube.com/CyriousStuff and his to the zoo. In addition to the concert, enjoy official fan page at daltoncyr.com. entertainment throughout the zoo including Dalton Cyr, managed by Kepler Entertainment in Los Angeles, is currently being seen by and working with industry leaders.

Experiencing a whirlwind of activity, Dalton has been able to meet with, and be seen by, recording face painting, Captain Character puppet shows, free caricatures, magic shows, an apple juice legends, the best casting directors for casting pilots, TV series, and feature films, producers from Nickelodeon, Disney, and Paramount, record labels, songwriters and recording industry people who work with legends.

Noon Year’s Eve is Wednesday, performance in Jacksonville before returning to December 31st Los Angeles at the beginning of January. from 10am – 1pm. The We’ve been watching Dalton Cyr rise in popularity concert and all activities are FREE with admission

Page 15 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

toast at Noon and much more! The first 500 receive a goody bag. Register to win a ski trip to Cataloochee Ski Area located high in the mountains of Western North Carolina 35 miles west of Asheville and 3 hours north of Atlanta.

Cataloochee Ski Area is the home of “Great Skiing in the Great Smokies!” We look forward to seeing you at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens for Noon Year’s Eve! j

ANNIE MOVIE Jax4Kids.com is giving you the chance to win passes to an advance screening of Annie on Saturday December 13th. Log on to Jax4Kids.com, join our eNews list, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for details on how you can win!

Visit www.annie-movie.com or follow @AnnieTheMovie. Annie opens in theaters December 19th.

NORAD TRACKS SANTA

sorship, and is financed by neither American nor Canadian taxpayers.

Last year, 19.58 million unique visitors visited www.noradsanta.org on Christmas Eve as NORAD tracked Santa using military satellites, radar, spider aircraft and Santa cameras (also known as Santa Cams)

#JAX4KIDSFAMILYFUN

NORAD Santa provides up-to-the-minute information on Santa’s journey! Follow Santa as he makes his magical journey to earth from the North Pole. Log on beginning December 1st to enjoy games, video, music and stories and more.

You can call the NORAD Track Santa Hotline at 1-877-HINORAD Christmas Eve beginning at 4am Mountain Standard Time as they track Santa around the world!

Follow Santa @NoradSanta

gram, Facebook, or Twitter and include #jax4kidsFamilyFun and the location and date of your photo, you’ll be entered to win a day of family fun at Adventure Landing Shipwreck Island Waterpark including 4 one day passes! We’ll draw one winner each month.

SAVE $5 ON RINGLING BROS. AND BARNUM & BAILEY CIRCUS TICKETS.

CREATIVE IDEAS FOR RECYCLING YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE Turn it into mulch Cut the trunk into pieces and make coasters or ornaments Make a sachet with pine needles On December 24, 1955, a Sears department store placed an advertisement in a Colorado Springs newspaper which told children that they could telephone Santa Claus and included a number for them to call. The telephone number printed was misprinted and calls instead came to the Colorado Springs’ Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD) Center. Colonel Harry Shoup, who was on duty that night, told his staff to give all children who called in a “current location” for Santa Claus. A tradition began which continued when the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) replaced CONAD in 1958.

Today, NORAD relies on volunteers to make the program possible. NORAD Tracks Santa relies on corporate spon-

Page 16 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

#JAX4KIDS FAMILY FUN PHOTOS Jax4Kids.com has your tickets to Family Fun! Beginning December 1st, when you upload a picture of your kids or family at an event you found on Jax4Kids.com to Insta-

The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus presents Circus Xtreme at the Veterans Memorial Arena, January 15 – 18 and Jax4Kids.com has a discount on admission offer for you! Purchase your tickets online at ticketmaster.com, in person at the box office or by calling 1-800-745-3000 and use the code JX4KDS to save $5 off each ticket (maximum of 6 per order. Not valid on opening night, Saturday 3:30 performance, VIP or front row seating).

LET’S CONNECT

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Page 18 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

THE RESULTS ARE IN!

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ESTAB

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3

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! s g n i t ’s Gree

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Sonny’s BBQ

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CAMPS BEST OVERNIGHT CAMP Camp Weed, Live Oak, FL

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BEST SPECIAL NEEDS CAMP Camp Boggy Creek

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Page 19 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

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n o s a e S

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Visit www.peterbrooke.com to find YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CHOCOLATIER! Jax4Kids Ad.indd 1

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Page 20 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

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Page 21 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

Park

Gardens is home to a variety of international masterpieces,

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Whether you’re a first-time guest or a lifelong patron, there’s something new waiting to be discovered in the Cummer Galleries. Stop in today and open your eyes to another point of view.

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Page 22 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

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Page 23 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

Academy Sports

Introducing

Mobile check deposit

It’s your money. Making deposits should fit into your schedule. That’s why we’re proud to introduce Mobile Check Deposit – a free service on your VyStar Mobile Banking App that makes it easy for members to securely deposit checks using a Smartphone or tablet. Wherever. Whenever.

HErE’S HOW tO Make sure you have the most recent version of our mobile app Sign the back of your check and write “Deposit via Mobile Deposit” Open the app and select “Deposit Check” Select the desired VyStar account Enter the deposit amount Photograph the check, front and back Confirm the image quality and request an email confirmation OPEn yOur accOunt tOday.

We never forget that it’s your money.

If you don’t have the Mobile Banking app yet, download it today from Google Play or the iTunes app store by searching VyStar.

JacKSOnVILLE & SurrOundInG cOuntIES 904-777-6000 • OutSIdE OF JacKSOnVILLE 1-800-445-6289 Please Note: The funds you deposit via your mobile app may not be available for immediate withdrawal. Please refer to your Services Agreement for full disclosures. VyStar does not charge fees for banking wireless. If you do not have a device to access a mobile site, wireless banking or text message banking, there may be a cost to purchase/rent one. There can be monthly service fees and other charges by the carrier for text messaging, email and wireless Internet access. Certain restrictions apply. VyStar is not responsible for usage, services or charges incurred on any device. © 2014 VyStar Credit Union

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8/18/14 11:43 AM

St. Johns County School District News

According to the CHARACTER COUNTS! initiative, Responsibility includes doing what you are supposed to do. Further, Responsibility instructs children to persevere, keep on trying, and always do their best. It emphasizes the use self-control and self-discipline. Students are taught to think before they act and to consider the consequencOne special student from each class was selected es, then be accountable for their choices. by his or her teacher as an outstanding example of Responsibility, one of the Six Pillars of charac- The St. Johns County School District is committed ter in CHARACTER COUNTS!. The Six Pillars also to their mission statement that they “will inspire include Trustworthiness, Respect, Fairness, Caring good character and a passion for lifelong learning and Citizenship. in all students, creating educated and caring contributors to the world.”

Before the start of the ceremony, a slide show highlighted examples of responsible behavior for each child at school and at home. Some of their responsibilities included recycling, getting class work done on time, persevering even when work is hard, table washing, serving as safety patrol to help other students get on assigned buses, P.E. buddy to help younger students stay

Principal and Assistant Principal of the Year Nominees Cathy Mittelstadt, principal of St. Augustine High School (SAHS), has been selected as the St. Johns County School District’s (SJCSD) nominee for the 2014-2015 Principal Achievement Award for Outstanding Leadership.

Nigel Pillay, assistant principal at Pedro Menendez High School (PMHS), was chosen as the district’s nominee for the 2014-2015 Outstanding Assistant Principal Achievement Award.

These programs honor principals and assistant principals who utilize teamwork and leadership skills to increase student performance, establish partnerships with parents and community mem-

These two St. Johns County nominations have been forwarded to the state where the nominees will compete at the regional level. The statewide winner in each category will be announced later this year.

This month’s Pillar Character Counts Pillar is All Pillars.

ST. JOHNS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Six Pillars

run walk

FEBRUARY 7, 2015 • 2 PM PALENCIA ELEMENTARY

bers, and promote safe learning environments.

Awardees are also recognized for ethical leadership and their use of innovative technology as well as their commitment to forging personal, social, economic, and cultural relationships in the classroom, the school and the community to build and support a learning organization focused on student success.

CITIZENSHIP

CARING

FAIRNESS

RESPONSIBILITY

safe, homework before play, feeding pets, taking out trash, unloading dishwasher, and planting in the garden.

RESPECT

The “Pillar Patrol” visited Ocean Palms Elementary in Ponte Vedra Beach on November 7, where 35 honorable students were recognized for responsibility at the CHARACTER COUNTS! Ceremony. Dr. Joseph G. Joyner, Superintendent of Schools for the St. Johns County School District, led the ceremony along with Jessica Richardson, Principal of Ocean Palms. Mrs. Richardson emphasized that academics are a high priority in addition to developing children of good character.

TRUSTWORTHINESS

Dr. Joyner, Superintendent of CHARACTER COUNTS! SJCSD, Visits Ocean Palms Elementary

PRESENTED BY:

Important Dates Friday, December 19, 2014 Friday, December 19, 2014 Monday-Friday Dec. 22, 2014-Jan. 2, 2015

REGISTER AT RACESMITH.COM Follow us on Twitter

ALL Schools will be dismissed 1 hour early Second Quarter/First Semester Ends (Friday Dec 19*) Winter Break - Student/Teacher Holiday

Visit St. Johns County Schools online at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/schools/ for more information.

Page 25 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

Clay County School News Oakleaf High School Teacher Recognized by Governor Scott On November 12th, Governor Rick Scott honored 6 Florida educators for their service to our country and their contributions to Florida students. Oakleaf High School Teacher Steven Cooper was one of the honorees. Cooper began at Oakleaf High School in 2010 when he was selected to establish what is now the most popular career education academy in Clay County, the Academy of Aerospace Technology. Two months before joining Oakleaf, Lt. Commander Steven Cooper was serving in the U.S. Navy. In June 2010, he retired after 20 years of service as a naval aviator. He continues to fly airplanes and promotes aviation education at Oakleaf High School and in the community.

Nutrition and Exercise Challenge for December

This Month’s Focus Muscular Strength & Endurance-Upper Body, Trunk Exercise Goal: Get 60 minutes of physical activity each day to include as many push-ups as you can do, in 1 minute, 2 days a week.

Nutrition Goal: Eat the colors of the rainbow. This month’s mission for our “Delicious Discoverers” is to choose a fresh fruit or vegetable at lunch!

To learn more about the Oakleaf Aerospace Academy, visit oakleafaerospaceacademy.weebly.com.

Clay County Community Education Did you know that Clay County Schools offers Adult and Community Education Classes?

The Adult and Community Education Center offers GED® testing on Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

In order to register to take the GED® test (all online), go to www.ged.com to select the location, register, and pay or call 1-877-3926433.

The test is $32.00 for each subject (Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, and Mathematics). You may take more than one subject at a time if desired. The entire test takes over 7 hours with a 10 minute break between each test. You may sign up for the whole test at once, but we do not recommend it.

For more information, contact 904-272-8170 or visit oneclay.net/adult-education/#community

December/January Calendar Tuesday, December 16, 2014

Early Dismissal, June High/High Schools

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Early Dismissal, June High/High Schools

Thursday, December 18, 2014

Early Dismissal, Elementary, Junior High, High Schools

Friday, December 19, 2014

Student/Teacher Holiday

Monday December 22, 2014 – Friday, January 2, 2015

Christmas/New Year’s Break, Student/Teacher Holidays

Monday, January 5, 2015

Planning Day/Student Holiday

Tuesday, January 6, 2015

In-service Day/Student Holiday

Friday, January 9, 2015

Report Cards to Parents

Monday, January 19, 2015

Martin Luther King Day, Student/Teacher Holiday

Page 26 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

www.oneclay.net OP/Middleburg (904) 272-8100 Green Cove Springs (904) 284-6500 Keystone Heights (888) 663-2529 TDD (904) 284-6584

Connect with us!

twitter.com/oneclayschools • and • www.facebook.com/OneClay

Page 27 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

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EDUCATION

The New Low-Tech Trend? Local Bookstores!

W

ith the plethora of technological devices in our kids’ hands these days, sometimes it’s nice to slow down and show them a low-tech place to find reading material: the local bookstore.

Visiting bookstores is becoming more popular among young adults under the age of 30, according to the Pew Research Internet Project. They’re also more likely to read at least one book a week (in any format) than adults over 30.

Jacksonville has its share of chain bookstores, such as Books-A-Million and Barnes & Noble, but our community also supports several top-notch local shops.

Offering a range of books, gifts and toys, these local bookstores might be a good place to visit with your kids this holiday season.

For more information, please call 904-733-4586.

The Book Loft The Book Loft, located at 214 Centre Street in

Jacksonville Center for Clinical Research is seeking volunteers for a research study evaluating a new investigational topical

The shop offers a large selection of books on Florida and local history, as well as gifts such as puzzles and dolls.

You may be eligible if:

For more information, call 904-261-8991 San Marco Bookstore The San Marco Bookstore, located at 1971 San Marco Boulevard, is also situated in a beautiful historic district. If you and your family visit this shop, you’ll see floor to ceiling shelves full of new and used books as well as a large selection of Jacksonville and Florida books.

To reach the Roosevelt Boulevard location, please Just Read, Florida! Recommended Summer call 904-384-1685. For the Laura Street location, Reading Titles: please call 904-674-0868. www.justreadflorida.com/pdf/JRF2014SRRL.pdf

Book Nook gift certificates are another wonderful option for readers on your holiday shopping list.

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historic Fernandina Beach, is another must-see bookstore. With two floors chock full of fiction and non-fiction, this store is a place you and yours may want to park and read for a while.

In addition, the store sells Papyrus greeting cards and gift bags, Melissa and Doug children’s toys Chamblin’s Bookmine and Chamblin’s Uptown and Marc Tetro dog prints, buttons and pop-outs.

With two locations, the original store at 4551 Roosevelt Boulevard, and a downtown shop at For more information, please call the store at 215 North Laura Street, Chamblin’s offers every- 904-396-7597. thing from bestsellers to rare collectibles. Both locations house movies and music in addition to Further Resources books.

The following sites offer insight into bestselling books, recommended summer reading (from this Chamblin’s also buys selected books from past summer) and book choices from kids who customers. “We buy all types of books, modern read. and common, old and rare,” their web site, www. chamblinbookmine.com, says, “provided the Best sellers (updated weekly): titles have a reasonable market, and provided www.nytimes.com/best-sellers-books/overview. that the title is not in our overstock.” html

The Book Nook The Book Nook, located at 1620 University Boulevard West, is another local bookstore offering gifts and books. Every time I visit, I find books, of course, but I also pick up unique gifts for friends and family members.

do you have

Children’s book choices spanning more than 15 years: www.reading.org/Resources/Booklists/ChildrensChoices.aspx I hope you’re able to visit local bookstores this holiday season. j Nancy Lee Bethea Nancy Lee Bethea teaches English to students in grades 9-12 at Sonshine Christian Academy in Callahan, Florida. She is also a freelance writer.

“Remember that the happiest people are not those getting more, but those giving more.”

– H. Jackson Brown, Jr. Page 29 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

medication for individuals with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.

You are over 18 years of age and have been diagnosed with psoriasis for at least 6 months You HAVE NOT participated in any clinical trial in the past 60 days Qualified participants will receive study medication and study-related medical exams at no cost.

Qualified participants will receive compensation for time and travel. Insurance IS NOT required.

For information call: JACKSONVILLE CENTER FOR CLINICAL RESEARCH (904) 730-0166 www.jaxresearch.com

Things to Do Education

Homeschool Program: In the Attic and Two Small Pieces of Glass December 17, 9am to 11am Homeschooled students are invited to MOSH Educator Shopping Holiday Event for a homeschool program. First, explore some December 6 artifacts from MOSH’s attic then journey to the All Pre-K through 12th grade educators are Bryan-Gooding Planetarium for Two Small Pieces invited to a special holiday shopping event on of Glass. This program traces modern billion dolSaturday, December 6. Educators will receive lar telescopes back to their humble beginnings.

25% off classroom and personal purchases.

The program starts at 9am and is $5 per student Barnes and Noble San Jose / 904-886-9904 / 11112 San Jose Boulevard Suite 8 Jacksonville, and parent or free for member parents. Register online at www.themosh.org FL 32223 / www.bn.com MOSH / 904-396-MOSH / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.themosh.org Attendance and Academics: A Perfect Relationship My Life In Rhymes December 15, 5:30pm to 7pm December 27, 12pm to 2pm This course will review data associated with Tonya Smart, founder of the Jax Youth Poetry student attendance rates and its impact on Slam and a host of SPEAK UP! will lead free student achievement. It will also cover state workshops on poetic autobiographies. Start with statutes that govern compulsory attendance a timeline and visual history, delve into copyrightpolicies and strategies that can be helpful in ing and self-publishing, and end up with a book. improving school Participate in 12 poetry projects exploring writing attendance rates for students. For all parents and performance. You may have an opportunity and caregivers.

Duval County Parent Academy / 904-757-7702 to share your work at the Brave New Voices International Poetry Festival. Ages 12 – 18. Call / Andrew Jackson High School, 3816 N. Main 904-502-7444 for information and to register.

Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206 / www.dcps.

Main Library / 904-630-2665 / 303 North Laura duvalschools.org Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jpl.coj.net Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.

That’s MY Job! Danielle Moskowitz - ASL (American Sign Language) Interpreter

Q. How long have you been an ASL Interpreter?

A. I have been an American Sign Language Interpreter for about two and a half years. Currently I work with students ages K-12 with hearing impairments one on one and in a small group setting to facilitate communication between teachers and their peers.

Q. Why did you choose this career?

A. I had a deaf girl in one of my classes and all I could do was watch her and the interpreter. They were expressing language in a way I had never seen before. I wanted to be a part of it.

My middle school offered an after school program for a sign language class once a week with a teacher who became one of my first mentors on my journey of becoming an interpreter. I decided I wanted to start learning ASL and that is where it all began.

During the year I would put on ASL presentations signing songs at Starbucks and attend deaf chats that took place out in the community to interact with deaf people and gets hands on experience. Learning sign language started out as a hobby and then transitioned into a career.

Q. What kind of education did you get to become an ASL Interpreter?

A. I got my Associates degree in Sign Language Interpreting after attending FSCJ for two years. During that time I did an internship at a local high school and then obtained my EIE (Educational Interpreter’s Evaluation) Level 2 credential. I plan to continue my education in ASL and take the EIPA (Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment) and the NIC (National Interpreter Certification).

Q. What are some of your responsibilities?

A. My responsibilities as a sign language interpreter is to facilitate communication and convey all auditory and signed information so that both hearing and deaf individuals may fully interact. An interpreter is bound by a code of ethics, which includes keeping all material interpreted strictly confidential. In addition, interpreters must maintain the integrity of the message, always conveying the content and spirit of the speaker. An interpreter’s mission is to facilitate communication; he/she should neither add nor delete any information at any time.

Q. What do you like most about your job?

A. What I like most about my job is the everyday face to face interaction. American Sign Language is such a beautiful language. Being able to assist the deaf community in their communication with others and to be a part of a culture that is different from my own is very rewarding. I get to learn something new every day.

Kids really do say the funniest things! Please share your favorites with us by e-mailing your story directly to editor@jax4kids.com. One entry each month will be turned into a cartoon to be published in the next issue of Jax4Kids. We’ll send you the original cartoon as a keepsake.

Page 30 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

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ZOOLights Bigger, Better, Brighter.

Annual ZOOLights Event Returns to Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens’ Third Annual ZooLights event is returning this year, and there’s no better way for families to celebrate the holiday season and create a wonderful family tradition.

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens will be transformed by thousands of LED lights into a bright and luminous winter wonderland filled with moving sculptures, forests of lighted trees and animal silhouettes.

December 12 – 14, 18 – Jan. 3 Closed Christmas Day. $8 Members $10 Non-Members

Mon - Thurs 6pm - 9:30pm Fri - Sun 6pm - 10pm

Featuring LED displays throughout the Zoo, local artists and performers, warm weather ice skating and s’mores on the Great Lawn (additional charge).

JacksonvilleZoo.org

In addition to the beautiful lights, guests will be able to view sculptures and performances by local artists including students at UNF and JU. There will also be yarn bombing by Yarn Bomb Jax, and a train display by the First Coast Model Railroad Society in our Discovery Center in Play Park. Guests can either stroll through the Zoo by foot, or enjoy a unique view of ZOOLights by boarding the Zoo’s lighted train.

Carousel rides, the 4-D Theater Ride featuring the Polar Express, marshmallow roasting and warm weather “ice” skating will all be among some of the festive activities families can enjoy together.

The lights won’t be the only attraction at ZOOLights. While many of the animals will be sleeping inside, the giraffes, jaguars, and Lost Temple reptiles and primates will be open for guest viewing.

ZOOLights will run from December 12 through 14, and December 18 through January 3 and will be closed on Christmas Day. The schedule will be Monday through Thursday from 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Friday through Sunday from 6:00 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The cost of admission is $10 for non-members and $8 for members and guests can save $1 on admission by buying their tickets online at JacksonvilleZoo.org.

The gates for ZOOLights will close 1 hour prior to the stated closing time. The last Train will run 30 minutes prior to closing. Activity lines will also close at this time.

This event is certainly a must for families this holiday season and will surely become a beloved family tradition for years to come.

zoo233046_zoolights_Jax4Kids_Ad5.25x10.875_rSG.indd 1

Page 34 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

11/13/14 3:49 PM

CHANUKAH EVENTS

VISIT JAX4KIDS.COM FOR MORE CHANUKAH EVENTS

CHANUKAH STORY AND CRAFT HOUR December 7, 3pm to 4pm Books a Million in Jacksonville hosts a Chanukah Story and Craft Hour on December 7. The Chanukah Story and Craft hour is a fast paced hour of books, craft, raffles, dreidels and more. All are invited to attend.

Chabad Beaches / 904-543-9301 / Books a Million, 738 Marsh Landing Parkway, Jacksonville Beach, 32250 / http://www.chabadbeaches.com/ MENORAH BUILDING WORKSHOP December 14, 2pm to 3:30pm Chabad of St. Johns is partnering with Lowe’s for a Pre-Chanukah Menorah Building Workshop. Wearing mini Lowe’s aprons and goggles, kids will craft their very own unique Menorahs with a host of supplies available from Lowe’s. Chabad will provide hot latkes and fresh doughnuts – traditional Chanukah foods. Reservations are appreciated to ensure enough supplies. RSVP to Dini@ JewishSJohnsCounty.com .

Chabad St. Johns / 904-701-4422 / Lowe’s, 4040 Oldfield Crossing Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / http://www.jewishsjohnscounty.com/ HANUKAH STORYTIME December 14, 4pm to 5pm All ages are invited for a special Hanukah storytime hosted by The Temple. The new book Honeyky Hanukahby Woody Guthrie will be featured, followed by fun Hanukah activities.

Barnes and Noble San Jose / 904-886-9904 / 11112 San Jose Boulevard Suite 8 Jacksonville, FL 32223 / http://www.bn.com CHANUKKAH HOLIDAY BAKING December 15, 1:30pm to 2:15pm Get ready for Chanukkah, by making and enjoying traditional Israeli jelly doughnuts (sufganiyot) with Morah Karen. Ages 3-6 yrs by 9/1/14. Cost is $10 for members and $15 for non-members.

Jewish Community Alliance / 904-730-2100 / 8505 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / http://www.jcajax.org

Page 35 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

BEACHES 12TH ANNUAL CHANUKAH CELEBRATION December 16, 4:30pm to 7pm Chabad is hosting a Chanukah celebration and fun fair on Tuesday, December 16th at the Ponte Vedra Library. The event will include family Chanukah fun and an Arts and Crafts Fair. Children will also have the opportunity to get their face painted and pose for photos in dreidel costume. The event will begin at the Ponte Vedra Library at 4:30pm. At 6pm, guests will be escorted across the street to Chabad via police escort for a Giant Menorah Lighting ceremony with hot latkes and fresh jelly donuts.

At 7pm, following the ceremony, adults are invited to hear Dr. Bernd Wollschlaeger give a talk titled “Against All Odds A Nazi’s Son Speaks.” Chanukah is the eightday Jewish “Festival of Lights,” which begins this year at sundown, Tuesday, December 16th. Each evening at sunset an additional candle is lit to commemorate the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem some 2000 years ago. The holiday also celebrates the miracle of one day’s worth of pure ritual oil burning for eight days until a new supply could be obtained.

Chabad Beaches / 904-543-9301 / Ponte Vedra Branch Library, 101 Library Blvd.

Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / http://www.chabadbeaches.com/ JCA’S ANNUAL CHANUKKAH PARTY December 16, 5:45pm The JCA’s annual Chanukkah celebration will take place on Tuesday, December 16th and will begin at 5:45pm with the lighting of the giant Chanukiyah. The festivities will continue with kosher hotdogs, latkes and Chanukkah songs and entertainment. The evening will conclude with crafts, activities and games for the entire family. This event is free for JCA members and is $15 to guests/nonmembers. All are welcome to attend.

Jewish Community Alliance / 904-730-2100 / 8505 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / http://www.jcajax.org NOCATEE’S ANNUAL MENORAH LIGHTING December 16, 6:30pm The Annual Menorah Lighting at Nocatee will take place on Tuesday, December 16, at 6:30pm.

Chabad St. Johns / 904-701-4422 / Nocatee Town Center, 100 Marketside Avenue, Ponte Vedra, FL 32081 / http://www.jewishsjohnscounty.com/

ANNUAL MENORAH LIGHTING IN WORLD GOLF VILLAGE December 17, 6:30pm to 7:30pm The Annual Menorah Lighting at World Golf Village will take place on Wednesday, December 17, at 6:30pm.

Chabad St. Johns / 904-701-4422 / World Golf Village, 500 S Legacy Trail St Augustine, FL 32092 / http://www.jewishsjohnscounty.com/ ANNUAL CHANUKAH AT THE LANDING December 21, 5pm This year’s event will feature musician Sha-ron Kushnir, a Grand Chanukah Family Carnival and Fair and, as always, the kindling of Jacksonville’s tallest Menorah.

The afternoon will feature a variety of kiosks and exhibitions, including Judaica Gifts, books and more, Popcorn, Chanukah Donut Decorating, Carnival Games and Inflatables, Olive Press Demonstration, Free Latkes, Chanukah Arts ‘N’ Crafts, Candle Making, Face Painting, Burger, Hot Dogs, Deli and Falafel and more. The Annual Menorah Lighting and Fair is open to the public and free of charge. Food and other items will be sold.

Kicking off the event is the annual Chanukah Car Parade – a beautiful demonstration of Jewish pride and solidarity. Over one hundred vehicles, adorned with custom designed Chanukah flags, (free to all participants) are expected to join the caravan towards the Landing. The convoy including Chabad of Southside, Beaches, St. Augustine, Clay County and St. Johns, will gather at 1:30pm and depart 1:50pm sharp from Chabad regional headquarters in Mandarin. All locations will meet-up along the way and join a single procession towards the Jacksonville Landing, Hogan Street Entrance, where the Chanukah event will take place.

Chabad Beaches / 904-543-9301 / Jacksonville Landing, 2 Independent Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / http://www.chabadbeaches.com/ ATLANTIC BEACH CHANUKAH CELEBRATION December 22, 5:30pm to 7pm Chabad at the Beaches hosts a Chanukah Celebration in Atlantic Beach. A fast paced hour of family Chanukah fun will begin at 5:30pm followed by the lighting of a seven-foot menorah at 6:30pm. This special event will be accompanied by warm latkes, free raffles and more. There will also be crafts, dreidels distributed for the children and Chanukah music. The entire community is invited to this event.

Chabad Beaches / 904-543-9301 / Adele Grage Cultural Center, 785 Ocean Blvd, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 / http://www.chabadbeaches.com/

Global Entertainment Powerhouse Calls Florida Home

R

esponsible for producing world-class entertainment productions, the global headquarters of Feld Entertainment is home to the largest and most innovative facility of its kind in the world.

Also inside their very large doors, are 22 Monster® Jam trucks, over 100 elephant blankets, 13 portable ice rinks, over 1,000 animal blankets, over 10,000 costumes, and more than 350 employees.

Established in 1967, Feld Entertainment is the Some fun facts: largest provider of live-action family entertain• The one-inch scale models that are built in ment in the world. With a team of over 3,500 planning every production can cost between industry experts producing celebrated live-enter$25,000 and $75,000. tainment shows, Feld Entertainment has captured • The costumes for a production can cost over the hearts of audiences across 6 continents and $1 million. more than 70 countries with over 5,000 performances per year.

• It takes up to 36 hours to set up an ice floor.

Some of the most well-known acts produced by • More than a million sequins and rhinestones Feld Entertainment include Ringling Bros. and are set by hand on costumes for each producBarnum & Bailey, Marvel Universe Live, Disney tion.

On Ice, and Disney Live!.

• Each full ice floor takes 11,053 gallons of Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, their facility water. has more than 580,000 sq. ft. under one roof.

Some of the upcoming Jacksonville shows which Feld Entertainment has the ability to set up the are being rehearsed at the Worldwide Headquartour, design and build the set, create the show ters now include: and pack it for the road. In addition, they have

a 50,000 square-foot rehearsal space, on-site design and fabrication, in-house operational expertise and administration support services – all which make them a unique one-stop-shop in live entertainment production.

Their facility, which is located on 46 acres of land, is the second largest single-occupant building in Florida – the largest being NASA’s Vehicle Assembly Building at Kennedy Space Center.

From the front door to the back door, the building is the size of three football fields. What’s more amazing is that equipment is brought in, props and costumes are made, and rehearsals are conducted – all under one roof!

• Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, January 15 – 20 at Veterans Memorial Arena • Disney On Ice, April 9 - 12 at Veterans Memorial Arena • Disney Live! Mickey’s Magic Show on March 7th at the Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts.

Feld Entertainment also operates the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Center for Elephant Conservation in Florida. Located on 200 acres of pristine Florida habitat, this state-of-the-art facility is dedicated to the conservation, breeding and understanding of the amazing elephant. Learn more at www.elephantcenter.com j

Page 36 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

Things to Do

pets

Vacation Checklist for Your Dog Sitter G oing on a trip can be complicated when you have a dog, especially if you can’t take Fido with you. You have three options – board him, leave him with a relative, or hire a pet sitter (or ask a neighbor, relative, or friend to act as the pet sitter). Some pet sitters will live in the house with your pet and others will come by several times a day to walk and feed your dog. Here’s a checklist to leave for the sitter:

• Leave all food and medication in plain sight and label it clearly.

• Make sure that the sitter has the proper keys and remember to leave her with all the information about your security system, including all codes. You can change the codes when you return.

• Make sure that the sitter has a partner or a backup plan in case he or she can’t complete the duties. Also, make sure that you have a friend or relative that can watch your pet in case of an extreme emergency.

If possible, introduce the sitter to this person before you leave, and make sure to leave all contact information with the sitter.

• Show the sitter where the circuit breakers are and how to turn off the gas and water supply to the house in case of an emergency.

• Type out your itinerary and all of your contact information, including your cell phone number and the numbers to the hotels or homes where you will be staying.

• Leave the sitter with the name and phone number of your dog’s regular veterinarian, as well as the name and number of an afterhours emergency veterinary clinic.

• Write down the names and dosage information for all of your dog’s medications and show the sitter how to administer them.

• Write down your dog’s microchip number and registration information in case he gets loose and goes missing. Make certain your current contact information is up to date through the microchip providers if there have been any moves or phone number changes in your past.

visits. Be sure that you are both clear about the feeding schedule, walking schedule, and playtime.

• Leave cleaning supplies in plain sight, including an enzymatic deodorizer and paper towels.

• Let the sitter know about the areas of your home where the dog is allowed or not allowed, and shut off any areas of the house where you don’t want the dog or the sitter to be.

• For safety’s sake, lock up all valuables— don’t tell the sitter where they are, of course! If you choose to hire a sitter, make sure that the company is bonded in case there’s a problem or loss of personal property. To be nice, buy the sitter some beverages and snacks and show her where they are so that she can snack while she’s playing with your dog—this might actually keep her there longer, and will certainly put you and your dog at the top of her favorites list.j

Nikki Moustaki, MA, MFA, is a dog trainer, bird care and behavior consultant, and a freelance writer in New York City. She is the author of more than 26 books on pet care and training and is the • Let the sitter know how many visits your dog host of www.dogfessions.com. requires and ask about the duration of the

“Kindness in words creates confidence.

Kindness in thinking creates profoundness.

Kindness in giving creates love.”

– Lao Tzu Page 37 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

Pet Events

Josh’s Run for Paws December 6, 9am to 12noon Josh’s Run for Paws, a 5k run/walk benefiting Paws Park dog park, will take place Saturday, December 6, 2014,on Jacksonville Beach. The event memorializes Joshua Heinz, a 31-year old Jacksonville resident who was tragically killed in January 2014. Money raised from the event will be used to install benches, shelters, agility courses, and AstroTurf at Paws Park. Registrants are encouraged to run/walk with their dogs.

There will also be a fun run/walk for kids 14 and under. Registration prices start at $10.

Josh Heinz Foundation / 904-318-8104 / Sea Walk Pavilion, 11 1st St N, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www.joshheinzfoundation.org 3rd Annual Putt for Paws December 7, 8:30am to 4pm The 3rd Annual Putt for Paws will be held at the Palm Harbor Golf Club. Cost is $65 per person and includes continental breakfast, 18 hole scramble, range balls, prizes and awards, and a luncheon after play. Registration ends November 25. Funds raised benefit the Flagler Humane Society. Flagler Humane Society / Palm Harbor Golf Club, 100 Cooper Lane Palm Coast, FL 32137 / www.flaglerhumanesociety.org Jacksonville Pet Food Bank Food Distribution December 13, 10am to 1pm The Jacksonville Pet Food Bank provides about a one month supply of cat or dog food for up to 4 dogs and 5 cats per household, for those who qualify. Food will be given out on scheduled distribution days between 10am and 1pm. It is not necessary to come early and stand in line. If you arrive before 9:30am, you will be asked to wait off site. There will be enough food for each event, and the shortest wait time is after 11am.

Qualifications: You must meet income qualifications (Details are on the website) You must provide proof of spay/neuter for each pet. If your pet(s) have not been spayed or neutered, those services can also be provided at no cost to you.

Please provide proof of income qualifications & photo identification Bring container/bag for each pets food.

Please do not bring pets to the distrubition Food will only be given out on designated distribution dates.

The food distributed is from donations. Donations are accepted Monday thru Saturday, 8am-6pm at the First Coast No More Homeless Pets Clinic. Donations over 200 pounds can be picked up by emailing petfoodbank@fcnmhp.org Pet food drop off locations: Publix Atlantic Beach, PETCO Stores: Fleming Island, Kernan/Atlantic, Marsh Landing, San Jose, Yulee, or the FCNMHP Clinic- 6817 Norwood Ave. First Coast No More Homeless Pets / 6817 Norwood Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32208 / www. fcnmhp.org

Yappy Hour Christmas “Paw”ty December 14, 2pm to 5pm This month, Yappy Hour gives back to the Animal Care and Protective Services. This is the final Yappy Hour of 2014 and the Landing Courtyard will be decorated for the holiday season with Christmas Trees and ornaments. There will be live entertainment, prizes, and more. You can also decorate a doggy ornament for your pooch.

Dress your pup in his/her best Holiday outfit for a chance to win Santa’s Little Helper title. Email your pup’s best Christmas photo and watch it rotate on the 14ft. jumbotron in the Courtyard during Yappy Hour. Email as a jpeg to scollins@jacksonvillelanding.com by Wednesday, December 10.

Pet Photos with Santa from 2pm to 4pm: Receive one complementary print when you donate any pet food item valued at $10 (one print per owner, not per dog) Receive one complementary print when you donate $10 (all proceeds go to a local humane society)(one print per owner, not per dog) Bring your own camera for as many digital photos as you’d like! First 50 people will receive a free photo with donation. Jacksonville Landing / 904-353-1188 / 2 Independent Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jacksonvillelanding.com Pet Photos With Santa – St. Johns Town Center December 14, 6pm to 8pm Pets are welcome to come visit Santa and have their pictures taken.

St. Johns Town Center / 904-998-7156 / 4663 River City Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www. simon.com/mall/st-johns-town-center

Pet Photos With Santa – Avenues Mall December 14, 6pm to 8pm Bring your pet to have his/her picture taken with Santa on Sunday, December 14 from 6pm to 8pm. This event takes place after mall hours so please use the main entrance between JCPenney and Dillards. This will be the only entrance that you will be able to use. Please call 904-3633054 if you have any questions.

Avenues Mall / 904-363-3054 / 10300 Southside Boulevard Jacksonville, FL 32256 / www. simon.com/mall/the-avenues Jacksonville Humane Society Silent Night December 22 – 26 The Jacksonville Humane Society hosts Silent Night , which is a four day foster program designed for every shelter animal to get out of JHS and spend the Christmas holiday in a home.

Silent Night is from December 22 – 26, 2014.

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

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

things to do Frozen Party December 1, 5pm to 6:30pm The Fleming Island Library hosts a Frozen Party with pictures with Elsa and Olaf, sing-a-long, winter craft, and more. Kids are welcome to come in costume.

For ages 4 to 10. Be sure to bring your camera.

Fleming Island Library Branch / 904-278-3720 / 1895 Town Center Blvd. Fleming Island, FL 32003 / www.ccpl.lib.fl.us Free Parenting Workshop: Conscious Discipline • December 3, 7pm to 9pm Parents are invited for a special evening presentation by parenting expert and certified Loving Guidance Associate Katja von Elbe. Conscious Discipline provides a proven and comprehensive approach that will improve both your life and the lives of your children. It empowers you with the self-awareness, brain information, developmental knowledge and usable skills necessary to create safe, connected, problem-solving homes. Coffee and light refreshments will be served. Free. Jewish Community Alliance / 904-730-2100 / 8505 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / reg.jcajax.org First Wednesday Art Walk December 3, 5pm to 9pm Produced by Downtown Vision, Inc. and held each month from 5pm to 9pm – rain or shine – the monthly First Wednesday Art Walk spans more than a dozen blocks that includes galleries, museums, cultural venues, restaurants, and businesses, plus dozens of artists in Hemming Plaza, street performers and live music.

Downtown Vision / 904-634-0303 /Hemming Plaza, 117 W. Duval Street Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jacksonvilleartwalk.com CISV Info Sessions December 3, 7:00 – 8:30 pm • San Pablo Library , 13295 Beach Blvd, 32246 December 6, 3:00 – 4:30 pm • Fleming Island Library, 1895 Town Center Blvd, Orange Park, 32003 Prospective parents, students and adults are invited to learn more about international and local programs offered by CISV (formerly Children’s International Summer Villages) for Jacksonville students, primarily youth ages 11 to 15. In 2015, the Jacksonville Chapter of CISV will be selecting Jacksonville youth, ages 11 to 18, and adult leaders to represent the USA at CISV programs being held in the US, South America, Europe and Asia. CISV / 904-616-3560 / www.cisvjax.org Peter Pan December 4, 5, 6, 10, 11, 12, 13 at 7:30pm December 7 & 14 at 2:30pm Peter Pan will be performed at the Amelia Musical Playhouse. Tickets are $20 general admission and $15 for students.

Amelia Musical Playhouse / 904-277-3455 / 1955 Island Walkway Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 / www. ameliamusicalplayhouse.com The Chinese Acrobats December 5, 7pm Direct from Beijing, The Chinese Acrobats will perform live at the Florida Theatre. Tickets start at $19.

Florida Theatre / 904-355-2787 / 128 East Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.floridatheatre. com 2nd Annual Sugar Cane Harvest December 6, 11am to 5pm Watch sugar cane milled in a cast iron sugar mill built in 1883 and enjoy a traditional old fashioned cane boil. Plus, there’s a music fair, fresh-fromthe-farm drinks, delicious meals, games and tractor tours. The event features a solo performance by JJ Grey of JJ Grey & Mofro, the Rivernecks and more.

Local restaurants, farmers and artisans that obtain their produce and ingredients locally are showcased.

Admission is $5 per person and all ages are wel-

come. Parking is $10 per car. Tickets are available online.

St. Augustine Distillery Co. / KYV Farm, 7086 County Road 16A St. Augustine 32092 / www.staugustinedistillery.com 1st Annual Donuts With Santa December 6, 9am to 2pm Come meet Santa and have your picture taken with him while watching the WGV Gymnastics Team Elves do flips and tricks. There will be activities, crafts, concessions, & more. $5 per child includes a photo with Santa, crafts, donut, and Hot Chocolate. $20 family package includes family photo, crafts, donuts, Hot Chocolates, and Coffee for Parents. WGV Gymnastics / 904-940-1895 / 314 Commerce Lake Dr, St Augustine, FL 32095 / www.wgvabc.com First Annual Gamble Fest December 6, 12:30pm to 10:30pm The Ponte Vedra Concert Hall hosts the First Annual Gamble Fest. Beginning at 12:30pm, the event will feature food trucks, art booths, musical memorabilia, and a raffle. Live musical performances begin at 1:30pm. Admission is a suggested donation of $15.

Gamble Rogers Fest / Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A North, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www. gamblerogersfest.org St. Augustine Winter Spectacular December 6, 2pm and 7pm The Dance Company hosts a family friendly holiday production filled with high kick dancers, ballerinas, acrobats, and actors. Two performances will be hold in the Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College at 2pm and 7pm. Tickets are sold online in advance for assigned seats ($15-20), and at the door if available ($20-25).The Dance Company / 904-471-4946 / Flagler College, Lewis Auditorium, 14 Granada St. St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www.StAugustineWinterSpectacular.com Jacksonville Jaguars Home Game December 7, 1pm vs. Houston Texans December 18, 8:25pm vs. Tennessee Titans Single game tickets start at $45. Season tickets are also available. Visit www.jaguars.com for a list of prohibited items, including the new bag policy. Be sure to sign up for the Jaguars Kids Club, for age 4 to 12 at www.jaguarskidsclub.com and Jaguars Cub Club for newborns to age 3 at www.jaguarscubclub. com. Visit Jax4Kids.com booth in the Web.com Fan Zone before the December 7th Home game and get crazy hair and giveaways. Jacksonville Jaguars / Everbank Field, 1 Everbank Field Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaguars.com Dealing With Busy & Difficult Times (Stress & Family Conflict) • December 8, 6pm to 7pm This course will help parents understand how stress can affect the family, how to handle stress, and family conflict. This course will cover strategies to resolve conflict, how it affects our children, and tips to assist children when dealing with family stress and disputes. This is a part of the Born Learning course curriculum, focused mainly on children ages birth-five. Childcare is provided for children ages 1-10. Duval County Parent Academy / 904-757-7702 / Jewish Community Alliance, 8505 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / www.dcps.duvalschools.org Bullying in the 21st Century December 9, 5pm to 6:30pm This course will review the warning signs and descriptions of behavior associated with bullying for both the victim and the bully, strategies that children can use when faced with a bully, and the policies and procedures that DCPS implements when bullying occurs. This course will also describe a GSA and safe spaces for student’s and use data to review its impact on reducing violence in our schools. For all parents and caregivers.

Duval County Parent Academy / 904-757-7702 /

Page 38 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014

Mandarin Branch, 3330 Kori Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.dcps.duvalschools.org Spirit Night Friday, December 12, 4:00pm – 8:00pm Family-friendly fun including face painting from 5pm - 7pm. 15% of all sales will be donated to the WGV Gymnastics team. There will be drawings for prizes, including WGV Gymnastics tuition and apparel, and Tropical Smoothie gift cards.

Tropical Smoothie / 904-342-7133 / Murabella Shopping Center, 124 Tuscan Way, St. Augustine, FL 32092 / www.wgvabc.com Zoo Lights December 12 - 14 & December 18 - January 3 Closed Christmas Day Monday - Thursday: 6:00 pm To 9:30 pm Friday through Sunday: 6:00 pm to 10 pm Please note: The Zoo closes at 5:00 p.m. and will re-open for ZOOLights at 6:00 p.m.

Thousands of LED lights will transform the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens into a luminous winter wonderland filled with moving sculptures, forests of lighted trees and animal silhouettes. Guests will have the opportunity to view sculptures and performances by local artists including students at UNF and JU, yarn bombing by Yarn Bomb Jax, and a train display by the First Coast Model Railroad Society in our Discovery Center in Play Park. In addition to walking among the thousands of lights strung throughout the Zoo, guests can enjoy a unique view of ZOOLights by boarding the Zoo’s lighted train. Guests can also enjoy carousel rides, the 4-D Theater Ride featuring the Polar Express, marshmallow roasting, warm weather “ice” skating and more! Cost: $10/NonMembers; $8/Members. Save $1 on admission by buying your tickets online! Purchase tickets online at JacksonvilleZoo.org Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens / 904-757-4463 / 370 Zoo Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32218 / www.jacksonvillezoo.org Hazardous Waste Collection Event Saturday, December 13, 9 am – 3 pm The City of Jacksonville’s Solid Waste Division is hosting a free household hazardous waste and electronic waste collection event Residents are encouraged to utilize these mobile events to dispose of waste in order to prevent otherwise recyclable and/or hazardous materials from being disposed of in the landfill. Residents can also drop off their household hazardous waste and e-waste year-round at the Household Hazardous Waste Facility located at 2675 Commonwealth Ave, Tuesdays through Saturdays, from 8 am until 5 pm. Examples of e-waste include: tvs, computers, printers, stereo equipment, VCRs, s, DVDs, radios, mobile phones, power tools, small kitchen and health and beauty appliances, etc.

Examples of household hazardous waste include: paint batteries, thermometers, thermostats, drain cleaners, pool chemicals, antifreeze, aerosol cans, fertilizer, pesticides, acids, gun powder, ammunition, fireworks, fluorescent bulbs and tubes, oil and oil filters, gasoline, etc.

Mandarin Park /14780 Mandarin Road / 630-CITY / coj.net/HHW Frozen-The Winter Recital December 13, 5pm The winter Recital is a celebration of the accomplishments of the skaters. Enjoy the progress the Skater’s have made learning the FUNdamentals and the competitive skaters who are ascending the United States Figure Skating Testing System along with the Academy Class Skaters. All Skaters enrolled in the Fall II Skating classes will participate in the Winter Show Registration is Free for all Basic Skills Group Performances. General admission tickets are $10 and VIP tickets are $15.

Jacksonville Ice & Sportsplex / 904-399-3223 / 3605 Philips Highway Jacksonville, FL 32207 / jaxiceandsportsplex.com

Kids’ Sewing 101: Headtime Story December 20, 9am to 12noon or December 30, 10am to 1pm Kids’ Sewing 101: Headtime Story at Jo-Ann. Cost is $35. Register in advance. Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store / 904-642-2557 / 10261 River Marsh Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.joann.com Songwriters’ Concert December 21, 6pm to 8pm The City of Atlantic Beach Cultural Arts and Recreation Advisory Committee host a free concert.

Doors open at 5:45pm. Seating is first come-first served for this admission-free event. Performers should call host Mike Shackelford at 904-610-7461.

Prepare two original songs of 7-8 minutes combined maximum.

City of Atlantic Beach / 904-247-4038 / Adele Grage Cultural Center, 716 Ocean Blvd, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 / www.coab.us Wilton Try Me:Colorful Cupcakes December 22, 7:30pm to 8:30pm Wilton Try Me:Colorful Cupcakes at Joann. Cost is $10. Register in advance.

Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store / 904-642-2557 / 10261 River Marsh Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.joann.com Old Town Art Show December 27 – 28, 10am to 5pm Annual juried art show at Francis Field will feature artists and craftsmen from St. Augustine and around the country. Items on d isplay will include jewelry, pottery, abstract sculpture, glass work, hand-woven fashions, photography, paintings, wood carvings and more. Show hours are 10am to 5pm, Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free.

Holiday Art Shows / 904-794-0084 / Francis Field, 25 W. Castillo Dr., St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www. holidayartshows.com Publix Aprons 2 Day Kids Camp December 29 – 30, 10am Two day kids camp at Publix Aprons Cooking School.

Held December 29-30, at 10am. Cost is $80. Menu: Day 1 - Maple Candied Bacon; Stuffed Blueberry Cream French Toast; Mahi Fish Tacos; Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones; Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie. Day 2 - Granola and Nut Tropical Parfaits; BBQ Chicken and Green Apple Pizza; Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pot Pie; White Chocolate Banana Bread Pudding with Salted Caramel Sauce. Registration online in advance, as registration is made on a first-come, first-served basis.

Publix Aprons Cooking School / 904-262-4187 / 10500 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, Florida 32257 / www.publix.com/aprons Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens Noon Year’s Eve December 31, 10am to 1pm Join Jax4Kids.com at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens for Noon Year’s Eve, a family-friendly New Year’s Celebration with an apple juice toast at Noon and Jacksonville’s own Dalton Cyr performing on stage. There will be entertainment throughout the Zoo, goody bags for the first 500, party hats and noisemakers for everyone and giveaways including a ski trip to Cataloochee Ski Area, located in the mountains of Western North Carolina Noon Year’s Eve is free with Zoo admission. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens / 904-757-4463 / 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218 / www.jacksonvillezoo.org

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

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Page 39 • Jax4Kids.com • DECEMBER 2014