Jax4Kids June 2021

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June 2021

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Contents • June 2021

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

quality pediatric care, close to home.

Open 365 Days a Year, Evening Hours Too Most Insurance & Medicaid Accepted On-Site X-Ray and Lab Services MAIN STREET

TOWN CENTER

904.354.6868

904.642.6100

1714 Main St. Jacksonville, FL 32206

4972 Town Center Pkwy., Suite 301 Jacksonville, FL 32246

BARTRAM PARK - New Location!

904.650.2193 155 Bartram Market Dr. Suite 120 St. Johns, FL 32259

www.PediatricAssociates.com

LIVING WELL

Dear Readers,

Community Profile: Catholic Charities ������������������������������������������������������������������������������4 Preparing for the 2021 Hurricane Season ������������������������������������������������������������������������5

O

ur Summer Guide is here! Turn to pages 12 - 15 to find this summer’s free and discounted movies, sporting events, hands on activities, deals, discounts, summer camps, family-friendly concerts and kid-friendly theatre including Seussical the Musical, playing June 17th through August 1st at The Alhambra Theatre and Dining. Don’t wait to order tickets for this popular summer event.

You’ll also find Summer Reading lists on pages 16 and 17 and summer activities for Teens on page 10.

The House of Leaf and Bean is hosting a Healthy Cooking Contest for Kids. See contest details on page 6. Deadline for entries is July 22nd. Check out the healthy Easy Quinoa Salad on page 6.

It’s delicious!

The Environmental Working Group is a great resource if you’re trying to learn more about how you can reduce harmful chemicals from your household including in your food and skin care products.

If you are choosing a sun protection product based on the SPF of the product, you’ll want to read “The Problem with SPF” on page 7.

Hurricane season is upon us. Please

EATING WELL

Easy, Healthy Summer ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������6 Leaf & Bean Kids Healthy Cooking Contest ����������������������������������������������������������������������6

HEALTH & SAFETY The Problem with SPF ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������7 Things to Do: Health & Safety Events �������������������������������������������������������������������������������7

SPECIAL NEEDS turn to page 5 to learn more about preparing for the 2021 hurricane season and visit floridadisaster.org and get prepared now.

Happy Father’s Day Dads! You’ll find a list of events to celebrate Father’s Day on page 23.

For an always updated list of summer activities, summer camps, events for every age group, Father’s Day events and more, visit us online at www.jax4kids.com.

Until next month, Alison Peters-Carlson Editor

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Alison Peters-Carlson Editor................................. editor@jax4kids.com Gabrielle Carlson Associate Editor.............................info@jax4kids.com Tim Chavez Graphic Designer..................................... tim@jax4kids.com Linda Bigbee Graphic Designer................................. linda@jax4kids.com Judi Fields Circulation Manager..................................judi@jax4kids.com Beth Canonica Advertising Sales.............................. beth@jax4kids.com Mary Gustafson Business Manager......................... mary@jax4kids.com Published by Child Enrichment, LLC, 12620-3 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246. Copyright 2021. 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.

Challenges and Tips for Summer on the Autism Spectrum �����������������������������������������������8 Things to Do: Special Needs Events ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������8

INFANT & TODDLER

How Can New Dads Bond with Their Baby? ���������������������������������������������������������������������9 Things to Do: Infant & Toddler Events ������������������������������������������������������������������������������9

TEENS

Summer Activities for Teens ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 10 Things to Do: Teen Events �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 10

TRAVEL

Experience the Great Outdoors in Utah ������������������������������������������������������������������������� 11

SUMMER GUIDE

Movies ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������12-13 Theatre & Arts ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 13 Sporting Events �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������13-14 Hands on Activities ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 15 Deals & Discounts ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 15

EDUCATION

Summer Reading List for Growing Readers, Tweens and Teens ���������������������������������16-17 Summer Reading ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 17 Duval County School News ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������18-19 St. Johns County School District News ��������������������������������������������������������������������������� 20 Clay County School News ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 21

PETS

12 Types of Starfish for Saltwater Aquariums ���������������������������������������������������������������� 22 Things to Do: Pet Events ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 22

THINGS TO DO

Things to Do: June Events ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 23 Father's Day Events ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 23

JUNE 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 3

LIVING WELL

LIVING WELL

Community Profile: Catholic Charities Camp I Am Special: Camp I Am Special is atholic Charities’ fundamental belief is an accredited program that offers a sixC that they have a responsibility to care day summer camp experience for children, for those in need by meeting basic human needs, restoring dignity, and assisting toward self-sufficiency. They have been putting this belief into action and serving the local community for 75 years by providing a wealth of programs that help transform lives.

Programs Emergency Financial Assistance: Emergency Financial Assistance Program (EA) is a recognized and proven way to prevent homelessness in Jacksonville. This program serves those in our community who are struggling to pay utility bills, rent/ mortgage payments or need food assistance. For emergency assistance, call United Way. Dial 2-1-1 or (904) 632-0600.

Workforce Development: This program offers job-readiness training, interview and computer skills training, resume/cover letter assistance, and job referrals for low-income, unemployed or underemployed adults. Catholic Charities tailors its services to the needs of each client in the program, whether it be through one-on-one coaching or creating a personal career plan.

Food Assistance: The Catholic Charities drive-through food pantry at St. Pius V Catholic Church Campus is open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays (closed on some holidays). Monday distributions start at 4:30 p.m. and last through 6:30 p.m. On Wednesdays and Fridays, the pantry begins giving tickets at 8:30 a.m. to up to 70 clients; food distribution begins at 10:30 a.m.

You must be present when your number is called. Guests can return every two weeks.

They will collect basic demographics of each household; one ticket per household.

Immigration Legal Services: The Immigration program, recognized by the Department of Justice (DOJ), provides affordable, feebased services to individuals by or under the supervision of a DOJ accredited representative to renew their Green Cards or employment authorization cards, file family petitions, and help immigrants find a path to citizenship.

Refugee Resettlement: For more than 30 years, Catholic Charities Jacksonville has partnered with the federal government as well as the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) to welcome people fleeing violence and/or persecution.

teenagers, and adults who are challenged by physical, emotional, and mental disabilities.

Nestled on the banks of the St. Johns River, the camp experience includes swimming, pony rides, fishing, hayrides, petting zoos, arts and crafts, talent shows, and more.

Each Camper is assigned a volunteer high school buddy for one-on-one care of the Camper while they are at Camp. Campers develop their social skills, grow in independence and make lifelong friendships.

Sadly, due to COVID-19, in-person Camp I Am Special has been canceled for 2021.

However, the Catholic Charities team is working to develop a virtual summer camp.

Supportive Services for Veteran Families Program: Thanks to a partnership with Changing Homelessness, Catholic Charities is able to provide supportive services for low- or very low-income Veterans and Veteran families who are homeless, at risk of losing housing, or residing in or transitioning to permanent housing. Some of these services include transportation assistance, legal services, moving assistance, job counseling services, and more.

Housing Opportunities for Persons with Aids (HOPWA): Catholic Charities is a provider of Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS services in partnership with the City of Jacksonville through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

They assist clients with housing, emergency assistance to prevent homelessness, and supportive services for low-income persons and families living with HIV/AIDS. You can get involved with the amazing work Catholic Charities is doing by making a donation. No matter the amount, your gift will help those who need it most.

Or, give the gift of your time and talents.

From accounting, data management, information technology, clerical, reception, food service, fundraising, and more, Catholic Charities has many opportunities.

To learn more about how you can get involved, or for more information on Catholic Charities’ programs, visit ccbjax.org or call (904) 3544846. j

ccbjax.org

JUNE 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 4

Preparing for the 2021 Hurricane Season urricane Season officially begins on Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday. anchor systems, ratchet straps, tarH June 1 each year and runs until NovemPassed by the Florida Legislature and paulins (tarps), tie-down kits, Visqueen, ber 30. This extended period is classified signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis, plastic sheeting, plastic drop cloths, e Park orang

kids fest

2021

as “hurricane season” because this is the period where tropical storm formation in the Atlantic Ocean is most common.

During the past three years, four hurricanes have made landfall in Florida, including Hurricane Michael, the first hurricane to make landfall in the U.S. as a Category 5 since Hurricane Andrew in 1992.

Be sure to thoroughly prepare for the 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season starting June 1.

After assessing damages done from hurricanes in the past few years, Floridians are encouraged to have at least seven days of supplies. These supplies include food, water, medicine, batteries, etc. Each family and business is advised to be adequately stocked and prepared to face this hurricane season.

To help Floridians prepare for the upcoming hurricane season, consumers can purchase qualifying disaster preparedness supplies exempt from tax during the 2021

READY TO BE A PART OF A PROGRAM THAT WILL BRING OUT THE BEST IN YOU OR YOUR CHILD?

the sales tax holiday begins Friday, May 28, and extends through Sunday, June 6.

During the 2021 Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday, the following qualifying items related to disaster preparedness are exempt from sales tax.

• • •

• •

$20 or less: reusable ice (reusable ice packs) $40 or less: candles, flashlights, lanterns $50 or less: any gas or diesel fuel container (including LP gas and kerosene containers), batteries (including rechargeable batteries for sizes AA-cell, AAA-cell, C-cell, D-cell, 6-volt, 9-volt), two-way or weather band radios (powered by battery, solar, or hand-crank $60 or less: coolers and ice chests (food storage, non-electrical), portable power bank $100 or less: bungee cords, ground

•

•

and other flexible waterproof sheeting $1,000 or less: portable generators used to provide light or communications or to preserve food in a power outage Always Exempt: bottled water (unflavored, uncarbonated), canned food (including meats, vegetables, fruits, peanut butter, and other nonperishable items), first aid kits, prescription and nonprescription medications (all Rx and most over-the-counter are exempt), baby food and formulas, feminine hygiene products

The sales tax holiday does not apply to the rental or repair of any of the qualifying items. Additionally, the sales tax holiday does not apply to sales in a theme park, entertainment complex, public lodging establishment, or airport.

visit FloridaDisaster.org/GetAPlan.

If you are an owner of a business and want to ensure that you will be able to continue business after a disaster, visit floridadisaster.org/business/planning-for-businesses/ to get started on planning.

It is critical that all residents have a place in case of a disaster. It is even more important for people with access and functional needs to take the proper steps to prepare themselves in the event of a disaster or other emergency. You can visit floridadisaster.org/getaplan/special_needs to create a plan for those with special needs.

The best way to be prepared is to be informed.

For information about planning for any disaster and for disaster preparedness tips, visit www. ready.gov/. j floridarevenue.com floridadisaster.org

If you are unsure of what to do when disaster strikes, make a plan today. To get you and your family started on planning

REGISTER NOW FOR FALL CLASSES!

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*Must live within 2 miles of the Karate America Eagle Harbor location.

No obligations, first 50 people only. Contact school for complete details.

REGISTER NOW CHILDRENSARTCLASSES.COM 9046127557

8411 BAYMEADOWS WAY, SUITE 2, JACKSONVILLE, FL 32256 880 US HIGHWAY A1A NORTH SUITE SIX, PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL 32082 JUNE 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 5

HEALTH & SAFETY

EATING WELL

Easy, Healthy Summer Easy Quinoa Salad he summer heat is coming upon us fast!

The hot summer months are a perfect time Tto incorporate Ingredients salads as a cool lunch alternative for your family. However, not all salads are created equal. The key to making a healthy salad is to start with good base ingredients such as dark leafy greens (the deeper green the better) and add colorful vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, red onion, carrots, and/or any other veggies your family likes. We get the benefits of vitamins and minerals from these colorful veggies such as iron, calcium, potassium, vitamin A, vitamin C, and folate to name a few. Top your salad with a protein such as grilled chicken or turkey, tofu, or toss with almonds or pecans.

The key to keeping your salad healthy is to limit the amount of added fats such as croutons, bacon, mayonnaise, and extra cheese, which can add unwanted fat calories to otherwise healthy ingredients. But did you know that one to two tablespoons of full-fat dressing can actually help us absorb the good nutrients – called carotenoids – in our salad veggies?

Carotenoids are what give vegetables their bright colors and also act as antioxidants in our bodies. Plus, the oil in the dressing will help your body absorb vitamins A, D, E and K. So go ahead and choose the regular salad dressing, but limit your portion to one to two tablespoons.

Mix your fruit and veggies for a colorful splash!

Offering a mixed fruit salad including melons, berries, and pineapple is one of the best ways to beat the summer heat – and makes for a healthy dessert. But did you ever think about adding variety to your regular green salad by adding a splash of fruit? Fruits give your salad extra vitamins, fiber, and other phytonutrients than regular vegetables alone. Try a handful of berries, a few sliced apples, oranges, cubed pears or nectarines, grapes, watermelon chunks, or even pomegranate seeds. If your family likes raisins, try other dried fruits such as dried cherries, apricots or craisens for an extra bit of texture and fiber.

Go Gluten-free!

If you are looking for a salad that will provide a little more substance than a green salad, and you want an alternative to regular pasta salad, check out what quinoa has to offer. Sometimes referred to as an “ancient grain,” quinoa (say “keen-wah”) is easy to prepare, contains ~5 grams of protein per serving, and is a good source of iron, magnesium, vitamin E, potassium and fiber. A colorful grain, it takes minutes to prepare, and it can be mixed with beans and vegetables for an eye-catching, heartier salad.

Check out the recipe below.

• • • • • •

1 1⁄2 cups quinoa 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons melted butter 2 tablespoons of olive oil 1 teaspoon sugar 1 can garbanzo beans (or black or pink beans) • 2 medium tomatoes, diced • 4 green onions, chopped (can use sweet onion as alternative) • 1⁄4 cup fresh cilantro • Salt and pepper to taste Directions Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan with a tight fitting lid. Add quinoa to boiling water, cover and reduce to simmer. Allow to cook undisturbed for 15 minutes.

While quinoa is simmering, mix together vinegar, melted butter, olive oil, and sugar. Add dressing to cooked quinoa and then stir in remainder of ingredients (beans, tomatoes, onions and cilantro).

Try this recipe with diced green and/or red pepper, or add a can of early sweet peas instead of beans. Experiment with the ingredients that your family likes!

Don’t Forget the Avocados!

There has been a lot of excitement over the past several years about avocados and health.

Avocados contain heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, vitamin E, and fiber, which are all good things to include in your diet. The fat in the avocado acts like the dressing mentioned earlier, which helps us absorb fat-soluble vitamins and carotenoids. Try this avocado dressing below for an extra dash of nutrition!

Avocado Dressing Courtesy of Dawn Jackson Blatner, RDN Ingredients • 1 avocado • ¾ cup water • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar • 1 clove garlic • ¼ teaspoon dried dill • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives • Salt and pepper to taste Directions 1. Blend everything in a blender.

2. Store in a plastic squeeze bottle in the fridge.

Experiment with salads this summer! Stay cool and healthy! j Aurea Thompson, MSH, RD, CSP, LD/N Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition Wolfson Children’s Hospital

JUNE 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 6

Leaf & Bean Kids Healthy Cooking Contest en Raiti, owner of House of Leaf & Bean winners consent to use of their names and/or on Beach Boulevard in Jacksonville, is photographs for publicity purposes without W further compensation. Finalists will be notified hosting their First Annual “Kids Cooking Healthy Contest” for children 7 to 12 years of age, with culinary prizes that they can share with their family.

When children are in the kitchen, not only do they learn to express their individuality and curiosity about food, but they also learn a little more about math, science, reading, and love!

Cooking something healthy for the family grows independence while inspiring youngsters to eat healthier every day.

Official Contest Rules The deadline for submission is July 22, 2021.

The categories of healthy food entries that kids can submit include vegan cookies, sliders, and flatbreads. You can choose to use some of Leaf & Bean’s tofu crust or chef-made tofu along with your local supermarket products.

Each recipe must include: • Child’s Name • Address • Phone Number • Email (parent or guardian contact please) • Recipe Name & Brief Story about the healthy recipe including “Why I Like to Cook Healthy for My Family” Who Can Enter: Entrants must be 7- to 12-years-old.

Email the RECIPE and STORY about “Why I Like to Cook Healthy for My Family” to Leigh Cort at leigh@leighcortpublicity.com (Publicist for House of Leaf and Bean).

House of Leaf & Bean owner Wen Raiti will select the finalists by judging on: • Originality and use of ingredients • Deliciousness • Presentation • Entry dish name and story about “Why I Like to Cook Healthy for My Family” The Top 12 Finalists will be invited to attend the official in-person contest judging on Monday, August 2, 2021, at House of Leaf & Bean, 14474 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, 32250.

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

• A minimum of six tastings must be on a presentation serving plate for the judges • Each child must bring the completed item’s name, recipe, and the child’s name on a piece of paper to accompany the dessert Rules for Finalists: There are no substitutions or transfer of prizes. Prizes are not redeemable for cash. By acceptance of prizes,

by July 27, 2021. Following the contest, names of winners will be posted on the website www.houseofleafnbean.com.

Judges Chef Mimi Lan, The Taste Curator Stephanie Crosier, Clinic Dietitian, Crosier Health & Wellness (pediatric nutrition & plant-based eating) Chef Vernetta Stewart, ACook4You Heather Borders, Registered Dietitian, Kailo Nutrition Prizes The Grand Prize Winner will receive • One-night family vacation for four at the St. Francis Inn in St. Augustine (Sunday thru Thursday based on availability) • Two tickets to “The Sound of Music” at Alhambra Theatre & Dining playing August 12 – September 19, 2021 • Tea Ceremony for four children at House of Leaf & Bean • Gyo Greens Cookbook + Gyo Bag + Small Edible Plant • $20 gift certificate to the St. Augustine Seafood Company (at the Colonial Quarter St. Augustine) The 1st Runner Up will receive • $50 gift certificate to attend a kids’ cooking class at JAX Cooking Studio • Gyo Greens Cookbook + Gyo Bag + Small Edible Plant • $30 dining gift certificate to Taberna Del Caballo at the Colonial Quarter St. Augustine • Tea and Tea set Gift Basket, House of Leaf & Bean The 2nd Runner Up will receive • $30 dining gift certificate to Bull & Crown Publick House at the Colonial Quarter St. Augustine • Gyo Greens Cookbook + Gyo Bag + Small Edible Plant • NuttyScoopz: a four-pack ‘Snack Pak’ of award-winning Organic Peanut Butter Dip Every Finalist will receive • Tropical Smoothie gift card value $5 In Ponte Vedra Beach & Fruit Cove • Four tickets to the Pirate Museum, St. Augustine • Four tickets to the Colonial Quarter Experience, St. Augustine j houseofleafnbean.com

The Trouble with SPF

ost consumers choose a sunscreen product M based on its sun protection factor, or SPF, often reaching for products with a high SPF value, assuming they offer the best protection from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet, or UV, rays. But that is often far from the truth.

SPF values are an unreliable measure of the effectiveness of sunscreens. A good sunscreen will provide equal broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. However, the SPF value reflects only how well a product will protect from UVB rays, the main cause of sunburn and non-melanoma skin cancers, such as squamous cell carcinoma (von Thaler 2010). SPF values do not reflect a product’s ability to protect from other harmful UV rays, such as UVA, which penetrate the skin more deeply and are associated with skin aging and cancer.

There are four key strikes against SPF values greater than 50+. They include: 1. Poor balance. A sunscreen’s SPF rating has little to do with its capacity to shield the skin from UVA rays. As SPF increases, the ratio of UVA protection decreases. High-SPF products suppress sunburn much more effectively than they protect from UVA-induced damage, like suppression of the immune system, formation of harmful free radicals in skin, and development of melanoma. As a result of inadequate UVA standards and limited options for providing UVA protection, U.S. sunscreens offer far less protection against UVA than UVB rays, and this is worst for products with the highest SPF values.

2. Consumers misuse high-SPF products.

High-SPF products tend to lull users into a false sense of security, so they stay in the sun longer and overexpose themselves to both UVA and UVB rays well past the point when users of low-SPF products would head indoors. As a result, they get as many UVB-inflicted sunburns as unprotected sunbathers and are likely to absorb more damaging UVA radiation.

Philippe Autier, a scientist formerly at the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer, has conducted many studies of sunbathers and believes that high-SPF products spur “profound changes in sun behavior” that may

account for the increased melanoma risk found in some studies. In two studies, Autier confirmed that European vacationers spent more total time in the sun if they were given an SPF 30 instead of SPF 10 sunscreen (Autier 1999, 2000).

3. Sunburn protection that is only marginally better. Sunbathers often assume they get twice as much protection from SPF 100 sunscreen as from SPF 50. But the extra protection is negligible.

Properly applied SPF 50 sunscreen blocks 98 percent of UVB rays; SPF 100 blocks 99 percent.

When used correctly, sunscreen with SPF values between 30 and 50 offers adequate sunburn protection, even for people most sensitive to sunburn.

4. High-SPF products may pose greater health risks. High-SPF products require higher concentrations of sun-filtering chemicals than low-SPF sunscreens do. Some of these ingredients may pose health risks when they penetrate the skin and have been linked to tissue damage and potential hormone disruption. Some may trigger allergic skin reactions. If studies showed that high-SPF products were better at reducing skin damage and skin cancer risk, the extra chemical exposure might be justified. But they don’t, so choosing sunscreens with lower concentrations of active ingredients – SPF 30 instead of SPF 70, for example – is prudent.

The FDA has long contended that SPF higher than 50 is “inherently misleading” (FDA 2007). Australian authorities cap SPF values at 30, European and Japanese regulators at 50 (Osterwalder 2009b) and Canada at 50+.

Things to Do Health & Safety Events Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course Mondays and Fridays, June 4, 7, 11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28, 9am to 1pm This class is for parents going through a divorce with minor children. Divorce can be an earth shattering experience for parents and kids. Kids may feel confused, frightened or even relieved about this change happening with their families. It can be hard for parents to be there for their children when they are trying to sort out their own thoughts, feelings and plans for the future. Positive Development is an approved provider of the 4 hour Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course required

by Florida. Each class is $60 per participant.

Classes are held in person on Mondays and Fridays from 9am to 1pm.

Positive Development / 904-516-0913 / 9521 Shellie Road, Suite 13, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.positivedevelopmentllc.com Getting Behaviors in Shape at Home June 16, 6:30pm Positive Behavior Support (PBS) is implemented in schools. Parents can use the same concepts to create a more positive environment at home this summer. This session will provide parents with strategies to build positive relationships and minimize misbehaviors. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for

personal and individual growth.

Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps.duvalschools. org Zoom Event: Kids Yoga June 24, 3:30pm Kids, grab a yoga mat or towel and join Ms. Akilah for a relaxing yoga class perfect for the whole family. Registration is required for this free class.

Zoom login info will be sent the day of class.

St. Johns County Public Library / 904-827-6940 / libm@sjcfl.us / sjcpls.org Kids Triathlon - Heritage Landing June 27, 9am This part of the Florida Race Day Kids Triathlon Series. Races are limited to just 100 athletes.

Kids Triathlon participants will swim in the pool, jump on their bikes, then off on their feet for the running portion. The events will be chip timed with a finisher time. Distances are based on the age of the child. Kids must supply their own bikes and must wear a helmet to participate. Please note the bike portion will be over a field, so wider tired bikes are more appropriate. Kids triathlon participants will get a racing bib, Sports Towel, Florida Race Day Finisher medal, Race Photos.

Finishing results will be posted online. Costs for kids triathlon start at $40.

Heritage Landing Amenity Center / 904-990-6611 / 370 Heritage Landing Pkwy, St. Augustine, FL 32092 / www.floridaraceday.com

Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list of Health & Safety events.

Along with avoiding SPF above 50, the EWG also suggests steering clear of sunscreens with oxybenzone, vitamin A (retinyl palmitate), and added insect repellent, as well as spray and powder sunscreens. Instead, look for cream, water-resistant, SPF 15-50 sunscreens that have broad-spectrum protection with zinc oxide, avobenzone, and Mexoryl SX. Visit ewg.org to find recommended, safe sunscreens, including a list just for kids! j ewg.org

Visit our Ponte Vedra location in the Sawgrass Village Shopping Center 340 Front Street, Suite 770

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.

JUNE 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 7

SPECIAL NEEDS

Challenges and Tips for Summer on the Autism Spectrum ummer is challenging for most families with S young children. For families with autistic children, the challenges increase dramatically.

Fortunately, families have a wide range of options for summer programs, as well as a long list of tips and tools for making summer less stressful.

What’s So Challenging About Summer?

Loss of structure and routine: For children with autism, structure and routine are synonymous with comfort and security. Provide it, and life is predictable and manageable. Withdraw it and the world turns upside down.

Loss of therapies and supports: Most children with autism have in-school programs or therapies that are paid for by the school district.

At the end of the school year, these supports and therapies may disappear.

Difficulty with finding appropriate programs: School districts are required by law to provide extended school year (ESY) programs during the summer to students who might regress without them. These programs, however, are rarely full-time and are unlikely to include all the elements of a school year program.

High costs associated with appropriate programs: Even if you do find a summer camp or program for your child, chances are the costs will be much higher than they would be for a typical child.

Stress related to childcare: In some families, a parent or other caregiver can stay home with the children over the summer. With an autistic child, this can be a very stressful experience.

Challenging vacations: Parents of autistic children can be overwhelmed by the challenges of leaving home with an autistic child, navigating restaurants and hotels, and at the same time finding opportunities for fun with siblings.

How to Overcome Summer Challenges Here are some tips for making the experience less stressful and more successful with each succeeding year.

2. Build a summer routine. Rather than making plans day by day, know what you'll be doing every day and every week. Mark plans on a calendar (or use a visual daily chart) and go over tomorrow's plans with your child. If you're doing something unusual, use pictures and social stories to help your child prepare.

3. Find, create, or pay for support. How do you provide your typical child with ordinary summer fun while also supporting an autistic sibling? Split the children up and have one parent take each child. Or, find a friend or relative interested in spending time with your typically developing child. If you have the money or funding, you can also hire a student or even a teacher to spend time with your autistic child while you enjoy some much-needed respite.

4. Consider camp options. Special needs camps can be very pricey, but in some cases scholarships are available. In addition, some organizations, such as the Y, JCC, and Rotary, will accept special needs campers on a limited basis at a reasonable fee.

5. Plan vacations carefully. Most kids with autism need a clear schedule and plan.

Know exactly what will happen each day and have alternate plans already in mind in case of a meltdown or unexpected setback.

6. Become your child's therapist for a few months. There are forms of therapy that parents can take on while also enjoying quality time with their children, such as play therapy, Floortime, or the Hanen speech method.

7. Build "me time" into your summer.

Spending quantities of time with an autistic child can be rewarding, but it can also be exhausting. To be your child's best advocate, therapist, caregiver, and parent, you need time to step away and recharge so that you can be fully present for your child.

The most important element for a successful 1. Understand and apply for ESY. Extended summer with your autistic child is preparation. school year programming is almost Plan ahead, prepare your child for new certainly available to your child. Though the situations, and know in advance how you'll offerings differ, all schools should provide manage tricky situations. Once you've lined up at least some therapy (often speech, ABA, your ducks in a row, chances are you'll do just and/or occupational therapy) during the fine.j summer months. thejerichoschool.org

JUNE 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 8

Things to Do Special Needs Events Zoom Across the Spectrum - Autism Parent Support Group June 1, 7pm to 8:30pm Many parents are looking for more specific guidance in raising kids on the spectrum. This support group meets online monthly and will feature a specific topic, and then parents can have a discussion about the topic or share concerns or support on any topic of their choice. Please let moderators know if there are areas where you feel you need more support or information. Free.

Autism Florida / 407-207-3388 / www.autismfl. org Kiddin’ Around Social Skills June 3, 17, 5pm A program that focuses on opportunities for social interaction with peers via board games and card games. Skill areas include: sharing the conversation, waiting, turn taking, giving compliments, accepting feedback, playing games fairly, oversharing of information, and making friends.

Families register once and can select all dates they wish to attend.

Center for Autism and Related Disabilities / 904633-0760 / pediatrics.med.jax.ufl.edu CARD Tackling Social Hurdles – Support Group June 7, 5pm to 6pm A support group for adolescents with Asperger’s Syndrome that want to practice social skills and overcome social worries. This is a free, virtual event.

Center for Autism and Related Disabilities / 904633-0765 / pediatrics.med.jax.ufl.edu CARD Young Adult Support Group June 14, 4:30pm to 5:30pm A virtual meeting place for CARD constituents ages 17 to 25 where participants can learn, share, and understand one another through common, comparable experiences and receive helpful guidance. Registration is required. After registration, you will be sent the Zoom meeting

INFANT & TODDLER

link and password.

Center for Autism and Related Disabilities / 904244-3056 / pediatrics.med.jax.ufl.edu Sibshops June 16, 5pm Sibshop is a gathering of siblings across the ages to create community, build support and share in the stories that make them unique as the siblings of individuals with developmental, intellectual, social-emotional, and medical disabilities. Held online via Zoom.

Center for Autism and Related Disabilities / 904633-0760 / pediatrics.med.jax.ufl.edu PEPSA Regional Training June 25, 4pm to 6pm Presented by Peggy Schaefer Whitby, Ph.D., BCBA-D. Target audience is teachers, professionals, and parents/caregivers of students with ASD. The mathematical curriculum is one of the most difficult for many children. For children with Autism, these difficulties are made more pronounced by language and executive functioning deficits. Children with Autism deserve to be provided with the tools they need to be successful in applied problem-solving. This workshop will introduce the Solve It! Problem-solving routine, a strategy-instruction curriculum developed

by Montague (1996) and adapted for children with Autism by Shaefer Whitby (2018). The curriculum consists of teaching students seven cognitive strategies and three meta-cognitive strategies. Solve It! can also be an effective intervention as it capitalizes on the student’s strengths, rote/procedural knowledge, and visual reasoning while supporting learning weaknesses, conceptual knowledge, and abstraction.

Three case studies and work samples will assist participants in understanding the unique issues that children with Autism may encounter while learning to solve word problems. This event will be held online, via Zoom. Registration is mandatory and limited to the first 300.

Health Science Center Jacksonville / 904-6330801 / hscj.ufl.edu

Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list of Special Needs events.

How Can New Dads Bond with Their Baby? n honor of Father’s Day, this year we wanted to Ialways share some information about a topic that isn’t talked about: dads bonding with their newborn babies. Some moms start to bond with their baby throughout their pregnancy, but it’s important for dads to bond too!

A father’s bond with a child is so special! Why wait to start bonding? Although it’s never too late, dads should try to connect with their babies right away.

Baby Massage Massage+ 30, 10, 5 is a type of baby massage that is great for both preemie and full-term babies. Baby massage is a popular topic right now because it comforts the baby and helps parents and caregivers bond with their baby.

Massage+ goes even further. It’s based on over 35 years of research (funded in part by NIH) and has been proven to improve: • • • •

Baby’s sleeping and eating Communication between baby and caregiver Parent and child intimacy Baby’s sense of hearing, touch, sight, and motion

Things to Do Infant & Toddler Events

Bay & Bee Drop-In Play June 1-4, 6-11, 9am to 12noon Bay & Bee hosts drop-in play for ages zero through four. Because playtime is limited to a maximum of ten families, pre-registration is required. Each session ends with bubbles on the lawn and a snack to go. Cost is $18 for one child and $6 for siblings over four months old.

Masks will be required for adults but not children.

Bay & Bee / 904-874-8192 / 3995 Hunt Club Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.baynbee.com Bilingual Little Ones Class June 4, 11, 18, 25, 10:30am to 11am Join the St. Johns County Public Library for an Outdoor Storytime at Sea Grove Park. Young children and their caretakers are welcome at this storytime, which features engaging stories, songs, and fingerplays in both English and Spanish. Masks are requested and social distancing is required. Attendees are encouraged to bring towels or blankets to help designate family spaces. In the event of inclement weather, Storytime will be canceled. Free.

Sea Grove Park / 904-827-6900 / 124 Sea Grove Main Street, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / sjcpls.org Daddy Can Too June 5, 12:30pm to 1:30pm Free online course for dads only. Learn how to support your partner with the care of your baby, what to expect in the first few days and weeks of your baby’s life, techniques to holding, comforting and caring for your new

Tummy Time Tummy time is another way to bond with a newborn. Holding your baby skin to skin is a great way to bond. Dads (and moms too) can hold their baby on their chest during tummy time. Not only do you get one on one time with your baby, but they are getting important tummy time as well.

Although tummy time does involve work on the baby’s part, it’s fun too! Get on the floor and grab some rattles, toys, and mirrors to play with and hold your baby’s attention. Dads also love the “Tummy Down Carry,” also known as the “Football Hold,” to help your baby reach an hour of tummy time every day.

Whether it’s baby massage, tummy time, or just a lot of cuddles, spending time with your baby and devoting your attention to them is the best way to bond. And if you ask us, it’s the best way to spend the day! j pathways.org

Episcopal Children’s Services Free Child Care Resource & Referral (904) 726-1500 • (800) 238-3463 www.ecs4kids.org Child Care Resource and Referral Services can help your family by providing: • A customized list of local child care options from our trained specialists.

• Information about quality child care and early learning programs • Financial assistance strategies and opportunities • Referrals to other community resources and programs.

Early

Learning Coalition North Florida

Helping Children. Helping Families.

baby, etc. The course is free and held online.

Pediatric Associates / 954-966-8000 / pediatricassociates.com Mini Monday at Color Me Mine Mondays, June 7, 14, 21 28, 12noon to 6pm Mondays are Mini Mondays at Color Me Mine, with $1 studio fees for preschoolers all day. Hours are temporarily modified; Color Me Mine is open 12noon to 6pm.

Color Me Mine / 904-338-9333 / 10300 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / jacksonville.colormemine.com Pediatric Associates Virtual New Parent Class June 8, 22, 6pm; June 12, 12:30pm Designed specifically for expectant parents, the free virtual one-hour course covers numerous topics on preparing for your new arrival, such as your child's development, immunizations, breast vs bottle feeding, and more.

Pediatric Associates / 954-966-8000 / www.pediatricassociates.com Live Q&A for Parents of Little Learners June 22, 6pm Parents with students entering Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) or Kindergarten in the 2021-2022 school year are invited for a special Q&A. Join this live, interactive session with the DCPS Director of Early Learning to hear how to best prepare your child for a successful start to their academic career. Participants will have an opportu- nity to ask questions. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiv- er's need for personal and individual growth.

Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps.duvalschools.org

BIG LEARNING for our smallest guests!

Powered by

Geared for children ages 3, 4 and 5, MOSH Molecules allows you and your child to explore and create memories in a safe environment.

Learn more at themosh.org/educate/molecules

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Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list Infant & Toddler Events.

JUNE 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 9

Things to Do

TEENS

Summer Activities for Teens hile your teens might be singing boister- think about them.”

W ous renditions of Alice Cooper’s “School’s Out,” most parents will likely be thinking, “Oh It’s key to find summer activities for young no! Now what?” It may take some planning (and a bit of prodding), but it’s possible to find summer activities for teens that are fun, productive, and keep everyone happy.

teens that seem exciting (and mature enough) for this age group and that offer enough structure to make your family’s particular summer schedule work.

Let teens make summer plans too

Here are some suggestions:

“What teenagers do in the summer is much more valuable than in the winter,” says Dr. Michael Bradley, psychologist and author of Yes, Your Teen is Crazy! Loving Your Kid Without Losing Your Mind. “Summer is unstructured time,” he explains, “without the demands of school projects, sports teams, and sometimes 18-hour days.” Bradley advises parents to come up with a possible list of summer activities for teens. Put some ideas out there. “Then let your teens decide what they want to do.”

•

Dr. Kimberly Schonert-Reichl, professor of applied psychology at the University of British Columbia and a specialist in adolescent behavior, agrees. “We have opportunities in summer to reset the connections,” she says, “as well as revisit what our teens might be interested in.” So sit down with your teen to make a plan of what the summer might look like.

Work on a schedule (or develop a strategy) Bradley suggests balancing unstructured time with some structured time “so they don’t turn into a bowl of gelatin in summer.” One way to approach it: divide the summer into thirds.

• •

•

One-third organized, productive time, where your teenager is engaged in something that has an outcome.

One-third unstructured time “where they have holes in their schedule and have to figure out who they are and what they want to do.”

Then the last third goes toward family vacation time.

•

•

•

•

Classes or camps for teens: If you can afford it, enroll in specialty camps or classes that line up with your tween’s interests (computers or art, for example) or day camps or sleep-away camps geared toward teenagers specifically.

Hire a college student: Many working parents seek out college students, who your tween will likely view as “cool,” to hang out with tweens and younger teenagers during the summer.

Tap into your network: Grandparents and other family members can pitch in, too. “If they have grandparents or even older cousins who can provide that love, support, and a safety net, all the better,” Schonert-Reichl adds.

Work off the books: If your younger teenager wants to earn some extra cash, she could let neighbors know she’s available to help with yard work, walk dogs, or be a mother’s helper.

Look for free activities: Many libraries and community recreation centers offer free or inexpensive summer activities for teens.

Encourage older teens to find summer work Think about value-forming experiences when it comes to summer activities for teens. Even jobs that are terrible will teach them something. “They learn all sorts of skills that they don’t learn when we take care of them,” says Bradley. A volunteer job is another great option.

Don’t forget downtime.

Planning summer activities for young teens “When a kid is staring at the ceiling, that time is very productive,” Bradley says. “Boredom is and tweens the beginning of decision-making based on Tweens and younger teenagers are in a tough terms of a teenager’s identification process: spot. They are not able to work, and they tend What could I do, what I feel like doing, what to feel that going to the local day camp they’ve choices do I make here? That’s the goal of been attending since kindergarten is too getting the wheels turning in his or her head.” babyish. “Pre-teens, 11 to 14, are in a really And that could be the ultimate test of a very important transitional phase,” says successful summer! j Schonert-Reichl. “There is a change in cognition, empathy, and being able to think about their future. But they are also highly yourteenmag.com self-conscious and worry about what others

JUNE 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 10

Teen Events

Tour of St. Johns River State College June 7, 10am and 3pm; June 14, 10am St. Johns River State College hosts tours of their St. Augustine campus. The school is located near State Road 16 and historic downtown St. Augustine. Students will enjoy the conveniences of campus life with access to a bookstore, library, and a computer and Mac lab. In addition to SJR State's online and on-campus classes associated with the Associate in Arts degree, the St. Augustine campus is home to the Criminal Justice Academy and seven degree/certificate programs, including the Florida Corrections Officer Academy and Florida Law Enforcement Academy programs. The state-of-theart Health-Sciences building is designed to simulate a real hospital and is home to the Radiologic Technology, Respiratory Care, and LPN to RN Bridge programs. Masks are required. Tour participants must also be prepared to take a health assessment upon arrival. Social distancing will be observed with six feet apart between students and those assisting in the campus tours.

St. Johns River State College / 386-3124033 / 2990 College Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.sjrstate.edu Help Your Teen Enter the Workforce June 8, 7pm Is your student eligible for the workforce?

This course will provide you with tips and strategies to help your teen(s) learn how to prepare for an interview and highlight their strengths and skills to help them standout from other applicants. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth.

Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps. duvalschools.org Insider’s Guide to College Admissions Tests June 8, 7pm; June 30, 6pm College admissions tests are important.

They do more than just help your child get into college. They can help your child win merit-based scholarships, and a good score never hurt anybody’s college application.

It can even be the deciding factor between being granted admission or not. This does not just include the SAT® and ACT® exams.

AP® Exams and IB® tests are college admissions tests too. In this free webinar, a Revolution Prep team member who’s helped hundreds of high school students get into college shares insider tips and tricks and

gives an overview of each test so you can develop a test-prep plan with your child.

This webinar is free and held online. Register in advance to get the link.

Revolution Prep / 877-738-7737 / answers@revolutionprep.com / www.revolutionprep.com Gap Year Options June 10, 6:30pm Is your teen looking to take a break following high school? Join Generation USA for a candid conversation around local alternative options for gaining real world experience that will deepen your teen's practical, professional, and personal awareness after graduation. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth.

Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps. duvalschools.org FSCJ Free Summer Classes for Graduating Seniors Thru June 22 Get a head start on your degree for half the price. FSCJ has announced Jump Start 2021, a new two for the price of one opportunity available for all Duval and Nassau county graduating seniors. Students who enroll in the Summer C7 session can register for one 3-credit hour class and the second 3-credit hour class is free. Summer C7 begins on July 6. You must pay your account balance in full before the fee payment deadline at 5pm on June 22, 2021.

FSCJ / 904-646-2300 / welcome@fscj.edu / www.fscj.edu Navigating Through High School June 24, 6:30pm School counselors are here to help you and your child navigate the transition into high school. The online video will provide you with tools to help ensure a smooth journey. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth.

Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps. duvalschools.org

TRAVEL

Experience the Great Outdoors in Utah hile we Floridians love our beaches, Arches National Park is made up of an 18-mile W marshes, and big oak trees, nature out main road with large formations made out of West is completely different and equally as sandstone. Wind, water, and acid rain shaped stunning. One state that truly has a great outdoors is Utah. Some of my favorite family-friendly cities to visit in Utah are Salt Lake City, Moab, and Zion.

Salt Lake City

You can make exploring these national parks fun for your kids by having them participate in Red Butte Garden is the largest botanical the Junior Ranger program. Pick up a Junior garden in the Intermountain West and, together Ranger booklet at any visitor center in the with the University of Utah, is the state Arches and Canyonlands or download it before arboretum. The Garden has welcomed guests you leave home. When your kids have completsince 1985 and consists of over 21 acres of ed five or more of the booklet’s activities in the developed gardens and five miles of hiking trails park, visit a visitor center, have a ranger sign winding through an extensive Natural Area your child’s certificate located in the back of the booklet, and get a Junior Ranger badge.

The Natural History Museum of Utah provides an introduction to the science in Utah's Kids can also check out Explorer Packs for the remarkable landscape! With engaging exhibits day, which include binoculars, a hand lens, a and over 5,000 artifacts on display, the Museum naturalist guide, a notebook, and activity ideas. features Utah's paleontology discoveries, Zion fascinating gems and minerals found worldwide, preserved artifacts from Utah's prehistoric Just a couple of hours away from Las Vegas, peoples, and stories told by the five Native Zion is home to the beautiful Zion National Park nations that lie within the state's boundaries. where you can find several picturesque hiking Journey to the top of a three-story indoor trails for all abilities. Also, from mid-March to Canyon, wander through Utah's dinosaurs and late November, a free shuttle bus system animal life, enjoy views from the observatory operates within Zion National Park that takes deck, hike the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, and you to stops along the Zion Canyon Scenic more!

Drive.

If you don’t mind a bit of driving, you can check out the Utah Olympic Park just 25 miles east of Zion also offers a self-guided Junior Ranger experience for families visiting the park!

Salt Lake City. Located in Park City, Utah, the Utah Olympic Park has a museum dedicated to Children aged four and older can complete pages in the booklet and attend a ranger-led preserving the Olympic moments of the 2002 program to earn their Junior Ranger badge for Winter Olympics, held in Park City, Utah. It also offers a host of fun activities, such as ziplining, Zion National Park. extreme tubing, and an alpine slide.

Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 8:00 pm, kids can partake in the Evening Storytellers Salt Lake City is also home to the East High Program, where they’ll join a ranger to hear the Wildcats! Disney Channel classic High School Musical was filmed at Salt Lake City’s East High stories and songs of Zion Canyon. Topics include School, and it’s now where the Disney+ original nocturnal animals, night skies, and human High School Musical: The Musical: The Series is history. shot. Note: Due to COVID-19, East High School Whether you’re looking for a family vacation, or is currently closed to the general public. just to get a break from the Florida humidity, Utah is a great place to do so. j Moab Imagine the Grand Canyon, even if you’ve only ever seen pictures. Deep rugged walls of stone with all kinds of interesting formations all tightly packed into one large area.

Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list of Teen events.

these foundations into beautiful structures that seem to defy gravity. Canyonlands is just what it sounds like: huge rock formations with wide valleys.

REGISTER FOR SUMM WORKSHO ER PS!

tripadvisor.com myutahparks.com nps.gov Richard Carlson

If you can imagine those canyons, rivers, and rock formations with a lot of space in between them, then you can imagine the Arches and Canyonlands: adjacent national parks in Moab, Utah.

JUNE 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 11

SUMMER GUIDE Movies Regal Summer Movie Express 2021 Tuesdays and Wednesdays, June 1 thru August 4 Admission to the Summer Movie Express is only $1. Tickets available for purchase at the box office and all movies start at 10am. Each week both movies play on both days. A portion of the proceeds goes to the Will Rogers Institute.

Week 1, June 1-2 -- Movies: Smurfs: The Lost Village / Dog's Way Home Week 2, June 8-9 -- Movies: Smallfoot / Playing with Fire Week 3, June 15-16 -- Movies: Storks / Lego Movie Week 4, June 22-23 -- Movies: Emoji Movie / Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs Week 5, June 29-30 -- Movies: Lego Batman Movie / Pokemon Detective Pikachu Week 6, July 6-7 -- Movies: Croods: A New Age / Muppet Movie Week 7, July 13-14 -- Movies: Lego Ninjago Movie / Trolls World Tour Week 8, July 20-21 -- Movies: Sonic the Hedgehog / Sing Week 9, July 27-28 -- Movies: Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse / Angry Birds Movie 2 Week 10, August 3-4 -- Movies: Minions / LEGO Movie 2: The Second Part Regal River City Marketplace Stadium 14 / 12884 City Center Blvd, Jacksonville FL 32218 Regal Avenues Stadium 20 & RPX / 9525 Phillips Highway, Jacksonville FL 32256 www.regmovies.com

JaxParks Movie Night June 4, 8pm JaxParks hosts a free movie night for the community. The featured movie is Playing With Fire, rated PG. Free popcorn will be provided. Please observe social distance guidelines, and be sure to bring a blanket or chairs to sit on.

Ed Austin Regional Park / 904-255-7920 / 11751 McCormick Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / www.coj. net St. Johns County Movie in the Park June 11, 9pm The St. Johns County Parks and Recreation Department will present a free Movie in the Park event at Solomon Calhoun Park. The featured movie is "Moana." Please bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy this free showing. Picnic baskets are welcome, but glass containers are prohibited.

Snacks and drinks will be available for purchase.

Enhanced safety protocols include socially distanced seating. Each space is marked off to seat a family of up to five. Face coverings are not required while seated, but should be worn otherwise. The event is free but registration is required since space is limited.

Solomon Calhoun Community Center / 904-2090332 / 1300 Duval Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.sjcfl.us Movies in the Park - Palm Coast June 11, 8:40pm; July 9, 8:45pm; August 13, 8:30pm The City of Palm Coast's Parks and Recreation Department and Flagler Schools present Movies in the Park. The movie begins at dusk and admission is free. A different family feature is shown on the

SUMMER GUIDE big screen in the stage area at the main entrance to the park. Movies in the Park will take place at Central Park. To ensure attendees remain at a safe social distance, chalk markers will be placed, showing where each group may sit. A hand sanitizing station will be available. All moviegoers should try to bring blankets, chairs, picnic baskets, and bug spray and make plans to come early with your family, friends and neighbors.

June 11, 8:40pm - Trolls World Tour July 9, 8:45pm - Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle August 13, 8:30pm - Jumanji: The Next Level Central Park / 386-986-2360 / 975 Central Ave, Palm Coast, FL 32164 / www.palmcoastgov.com EcoCinema at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre June 15 and August 17, 7pm St. Augustine EcoCinema Series is a Four-Part Environmental Film Series. The documentaries will be shown for free on the Front Porch at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, followed by a Q&A session with local experts. All are welcome to join and learn more about how to work together to positively address plastic pollution, rising sea levels, food waste, and marine habitat destruction. Film screening is free and open to the public with free parking. Concessions and a food truck will be available. Distanced seating will be on a first-come, first-seated basis, and masks will be required unless seated. The June event features "Sinking Cities: Miami” and “The Oldest City Underwater," and the August event features "Wasted!

The Story of Food Waste.”

St. Augustine Amphitheatre / 904-209-0367 / 1340C A1A South, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www. theamp.com

Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse Wednesdays, June 16 – August 4, 9:30am The Summer Movie Clubhouse is an eight week program of recently released G and PG films for kids. The cost is $1.50 per person per movie at the door the morning of the program. All Showtimes at 9:30am on Wednesdays. There will be concession discounts during Summer Movie Clubhouse screenings: $1 off a snack pack, $1 off a large popcorn, and $1 off a large-size fountain or ICEE drink; offers can be combined.

June 16, Trolls World Tour June 23, Secret Life of Pets 2 June 30, How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World July 7, Lego Movie 2 July 14, Angry Birds 2 July 21, Dora and the Lost City of Gold July 28, Minions August 4, Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs Cinemark / http://www.cinemark.com​ Cinemark Tinseltown / 904-998-2122 / 4535 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32216 Cinemark Durbin Park / 904-230-4622 / 435 Durbin Pavilion Drive, St. Johns, FL 32259 Reel Fun Nights June 18, July 16, August 6, 8:30pm The Town of Orange Park hosts Reel Fun Nights.

Food trucks begin serving at 5pm and the movie will begin at sundown (about 8:30pm). Be sure to bring a blanket or chair to sit on. Chairs should be low to the ground to allow everyone to see the film.

Squares will be marked off in front of the screen to help groups maintain physical distancing. Squares are first come, first served. Guests are asked to maintain a distance of at least six feet from other

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attendees, especially when in line for food. Be prepared with cashless payment options.

June 18 -- Trolls World Tour July 16 -- The Jungle Book (2016) August 6 -- The Little Mermaid Town Hall Park / 904-264-2635 / 2042 Park Avenue, Orange Park, FL 32073 / www.townoforangepark.com

Theatre & Arts Music by the Sea Concert Series Wednesdays, thru September 1, 7pm Music by the Sea is back with 15 free shows in 2021. The series runs May 26 thru September 1.

This free family-friendly concert series features a different band each week. The series offers a wide variety of music including jazz, blues, classic rock, pop, reggae, disco, and country. In addition to the music, there will be a food truck on site each week – available at 4:00pm. They’ll be offering dinner and soft drinks for $10 or less. And, there will be at least two menu options.

St Johns County Pier Park / 350 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www.sabca.org The Sound of Music June 4-5, 11-12, 17-19, 8pm; June 6, 12-13, 20, 2pm The Orange Park Community Theatre presents The Sound of Music. Tickets are $25 each and are available online.

Orange Park Community Theater / 904-276-2599 / 2900 Moody Avenue, Orange Park, FL 32073 / www.opct.info Little House on the Prairie June 11, 12, 15, 17, 18, 19, 7:30pm; June 13, 20, 2pm The Island Theater presents Little House on the Prairie. Masks are required, and seating will be assigned. Doors open thirty minutes prior to showtime. Tickets are $15 for general admission and $10 for student admission.

The Island Theater / 904-254-1455 / 1860 Town Hall Circle Suite 54, Fleming Island, FL 2003 / www.theislandtheater.com Seawalk Music Festival June 12, 12:30pm to 10pm; June 13, 1pm to 8pm The Annual Seawalk Festival is coming back to Jacksonville Beach. The family-friendly event showcases the richness of the regional music scene as a whole and features the mobile eateries, boutiques, and crafts that call the beach home.

Event will be held at the Seawalk Pavilion and Latham Plaza.

Seawalk Pavilion / 100 1st St North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www.jaxbeachfestivals.com Theatreworks Free Summer Theatre June 16, July 14, 15, 20, 11am and 1pm Theatreworks hosts Free Summer Theatre. All of this year’s Free Summer Theatre events will take place at the Florida Theatre with a limited seating capacity of 50%. Please check each individual event’s page for a list of safety protocols. Free admission, but reservations are required. Masks are strongly recommended but not required.

June 16, 11am and 1pm – Thimbelina July 14, 11am and 1pm -- Doug Berky’s Gems July 15, 11am and 1pm -- Doug Berky’s No Show July 20, 11am and 1pm -- The Time Machine Florida Theatre / 904-353-3500 / 128 E Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / floridatheatre.com

Seussical the Musical at Alhambra Theatre & Dining June 17 - August 1 The Alhambra Theatre and Dining presents Seussical the Musical, based on the books "Horton the Elephant" and "The Cat in the Hat," and characters from the whimsical imagination of Dr. Seuss. There are evening performances, as well as matinees; no shows on Mondays.

Alhambra Theatre & Dining / 904-641-1212 / 12000 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www. alhambrajax.com Apex Theatre Studio Presents Annie June 17-18, 7:30pm -- Live Stream June 19, 2pm and 8pm -- In Person Performances Apex Theatre Studios presents "Annie" at the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall. In addition to two live performances, live streaming performances will be offered. Tickets for the live stream are $20, and tickets for the in-person performances start at $23.

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall / 904-209-0399 / 1050 A1A North, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www. pvconcerthall.com

OPENS JUNE 11

OPENS JUNE 24

Sporting Events Jacksonville Icemen vs. Orlando Solar Bears June 1 and 4, 7pm The Jacksonville Icemen take on the Orlando Solar Bears. Masks must be worn when not eating or drinking, and social distancing guidelines are in place. Tickets start at $18 each and must be purchased in groups of four. The Jacksonville Icemen are a proud affiliate of the NHL’s Winnipeg Jets and AHL’s Manitoba Moose.

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena / 904-602-7825 / 300 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jacksonvilleicemen.com Jacksonville Armada vs. Southern States Soccer Club June 7, 7pm The Jacksonville Armada FC is Jacksonville's professional soccer team. Games are played at Jangro Stadium at Episcopal School of Jacksonville.

Game location is subject to stadium availability.

Episcopal School of Jacksonville Jangro Stadium / 4455 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207 Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Norfolk Tides June 8-13 The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp take on the Norfolk Tides. Single game tickets start at $5, with multi-game and group packages available. Section 108 F-Q is a designated Family Section, with no alcohol allowed.

June 8, 7:05pm -- Tickets are 2-for-1 at the box office for Community First Credit Union members June 9, 7:05pm -- Canines and Crustaceans (Dog Day); VyStar Credit Union Charity Begins At Home June 10, 7:05pm -- DJs from 106.1 will be at the Tiki Terrace June 11, 7:05pm -- Red Shirt Friday-fans who wear red save $1 on a ticket at the box office; Friday Night Fireworks; Gen X Olympics June 12, 6:35pm -- Jersey Auction; Saturday Night Fireworks; Hawaiian Shirt Giveaway June 13, 6:35pm -- Baptist Health Sunday Family FUNday-Kids can feel like the pros after each Sunday game by running the bases; there will also be free face painting and balloon animals 121 Financial Ballpark / 904-358-2846 / 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jaxshrimp.com

For Showtimes and Tickets:

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SUMMER GUIDE Jacksonville Sharks vs Carolina Cobras June 12, 7pm Arena football team, the Jacksonville Sharks, take on opponents at 7pm at the Veterans Memorial Arena. Single game tickets start at $10. Family packs of tickets are also available, which include four tickets, four hot dogs, chips, and drinks. Kids ages 6 to 16 can join the Sharks Chum's Kids club. For $25, kids will receive two tickets to a Sharks regular-season game, an exclusive kids club lanyard, Sharks hat, special pricing for additional Sharks game tickets, and 10% off Sharks game-day merchandise. Tonight is Country Night & Education Appreciation Night.

Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena / 904-6210700 / 300 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxsharks.com Jacksonville Armada vs. Port City FC June 13, 12noon The Jacksonville Armada FC is Jacksonville's professional soccer team. Games are played at Episcopal School of Jacksonville. Game location is subject to stadium availability.

Episcopal School of Jacksonville Jangro Stadium / 4455 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207 Jacksonville Armada vs. Tallahassee SC June 16, 7pm The Jacksonville Armada FC is Jacksonville's professional soccer team. Games are played at Episcopal School of Jacksonville. Game location is subject to stadium availability.

Episcopal School of Jacksonville Jangro Stadium / 4455 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207

Jacksonville Armada vs. Florida Roots FC June 19, 7pm The Jacksonville Armada FC is Jacksonville's professional soccer team. Games are played at Episcopal School of Jacksonville. Game location is subject to stadium availability.

Episcopal School of Jacksonville Jangro Stadium / 4455 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207 Jacksonville Axemen vs. TBD June 19, 6pm The Jacksonville Axemen Rugby League team invites fans out for their 2021 season. All home games are played at Hodges Stadium, on the campus of the University of North Florida. Single game and season tickets are available.

Hodges Stadium at UNF / 904-514-8503 / 1 UNF Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.jaxaxe.com Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Durham Bulls June 22-27 The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp take on the Durham Bulls. Single game tickets start at $5, with multi-game and group packages available. Section 108 F-Q is a designated Family Section, with no alcohol allowed.

June 22, 7:05pm -- National Onion Ring Day; Tickets are 2-for-1 at the box office for Community First Credit Union members June 23, 7:05pm -- Military Appreciation Nightfree tickets (subject to availability) to all active, retired, veterans and former military members and their dependents; BOGO Tickets June 24, 7:05pm -- Say Yes To Crack Night-the Jumbo Shrimp salute chiropractors and plumbers

SUMMER CAMP .

June 7 - July 30

9-4 pm

Ages 5 and up. Camps as low as $159 a week!

TWO CAMP LOCATIONS Trinity Christian Academy 800 Hammond Blvd.

Jacksonville, FL 32221 904-312-7621

.

The Discovery School 102 15th St. S Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250

www.bricks4kidz.com/florida-jacksonville-westside

SUMMER CAMP JUNE, JULY & AUGUST 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM

$200

PER WEEK

INCLUDES BREAKFAST, FIELD TRIPS & SNACKS

At Camp Discovery our school-aged explorers spend the summer doing fun activities on campus and safely visiting exciting places all over the Jacksonville area. Expeditions include Jacksonville Zoo, St. Augustine Aquarium, Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens, and much more!

JUNE 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 14

SUMMER GUIDE

T hrough September 5 Come explore The Lost World of Dragons at MOSH! This unique exhibition explores the history of the legendary beasts and the cultures that celebrate them. The interactive experience runs through September 5. For more information, visit THEMOSH.ORG

THEMOSH.ORG The Lost World of Dragons® was created by Stage 9 Exhibits and is distributed by Exhibits Development Group.

with whip cracking, egg cracking and a cracker eating contests June 25, 7:05pm -- Red Shirt Friday-fans who wear red save $1 on a ticket at the box office; Independence Night Fireworks; June 26, 6:35pm -- Fan Design Shirt Giveaway; Saturday Night Fireworks June 27, 6:35pm -- Baptist Health Sunday Family day-Kids can feel like the pros after each Sunday game by running the bases; there will also be free face painting and balloon animals; Canines and Crustaceans (Dog Day) 121 Financial Ballpark / 904-358-2846 / 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jaxshrimp.com Jacksonville Axemen vs. Copperheads RLFC June 26, 6pm The Jacksonville Axemen Rugby League team invites fans out for their 2021 season. All home games are played at Hodges Stadium, on the campus of the University of North Florida. Single game and season tickets are available.

Hodges Stadium at UNF / 904-514-8503 / 1 UNF Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.jaxaxe.com Jacksonville Sharks 2021 Youth Camp June 26, 1:30pm to 3:30pm Arena football team, the Jacksonville Sharks, invites kids to participate in a Youth Camp. Learn Skills & Drills from Players and Coaching Staff on the field at the Veterans Memorial Arena before the team takes on the Albany Empire for Halloween in June. Cost is $50 for Non-Season Ticket Holder and includes one child ticket and one adult ticket; $30 for Current Season Ticket Holder, does not include a ticket.

Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena / 904-6210700 / 300 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxsharks.com Jacksonville Sharks vs. Albany Empire June 26, 7pm Arena football team, the Jacksonville Sharks, take on opponents at 7pm at the Veterans Memorial Arena. Single game tickets start at $10. Family packs of tickets are also available, which include four tickets, four hot dogs, chips, and drinks. Kids ages 6 to 16 can join the Sharks Chum's Kids club.

For $25, kids will receive two tickets to a Sharks regular-season game, an exclusive kids club lanyard, Sharks hat, special pricing for additional Sharks game tickets, and 10% off Sharks gameday merchandise. Tonight is Halloween in June.

Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena / 904-6210700 / 300 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxsharks.com

Hands on Activities Sweet by Holly Mini Cupcake Advanced Decorating Kit Sweet by Holly offers a Mini Cupcake Advanced Decorating Kit. The kit includes six Classic Cupcakes, four Buttercreams, four Toppings, three Specialty Tips, and one Bonus Tip. Cost is $30 and is available by advance order only.

Sweet by Holly / 904-564-2711 / 4624 Town Crossing Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / sweetbyholly. com

Impressionism on the Go: Take and Make Art Kits Explore your creativity and learn more about American Impressionism with an Impressionism on the Go: Take and Make Art Kit. The Lightner Museum will publish a series of online Impression- ismthemed children’s art projects and activities during the exhibitions, American Impressionism: Treasures from the Daywood Collection and St. Augustine in a New Light: American Impressionism from the Collection of the Lightner Museum. Art kits include a sketchbook and oil pastels and can be picked up at the museum’s front desk. $10 suggested donation. Everyone is encouraged to post their art projects to the online exhibition with the hashtag #lightnermuseum.

Lightner Museum / 904-824-2874 / 75 King Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / lightnermuseum.org

plus tax.

Doing Dishes Pottery Studio / 904-730-3729 / 5619 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.doingdishes.com

Color Me Mine Kids Summer Workshops Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, June 7-July 30, 11am to 3pm Color Me Mine hosts Kids Summer workshops/ classes. The events are recommended for ages 6-12yrs. Each week has a theme. Participants will work with ceramic projects and clay. Different techniques will be incorporated into each class.

Classes are on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 11am to 3pm. Bring your own lunch; a snack will be provided. Face masks are strongly recommended. Cost starts at $180/week.

June 7, 9, 11 -- Ceramic Chief June 14, 16, 18 -- Wizard World Week June 21, 23, 25 -- Hawaiian Luau June 28, 30, July 2 -- Galaxy Summer Workshop July 12, 14, 16 -- Magical Fun July 19, 21, 23 -- My Pet July 26, 28, 30 -- World Traveler Color Me Mine Jacksonville / 904-338-9333 / 10300 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / jacksonville.colormemine.com

Kids Bowl Free Registered kids can bowl two free games every day all summer. Age limit and lane times vary by location. Shoe rental not included; standard shoe rental rates apply. Discounted family passes are also available.

St. Augustine, Anastasia Bowling Lanes, 3245 A1A S, St Augustine, FL, 32080 / 904-471-3565 Thru September 30, Daily, Open to Close Palatka, Putnam Lanes, 3834 Reid St, Palatka, FL, 32177 / 386-325-8795 Thru September 30, Daily, Open to Close Jacksonville, Batt Family Fun Center, 1838 Cassat Ave, Jacksonville, FL, 32210 / 904-389-2360 Thru October 15, Mondays-Thursdays, 10am 9pm; Fridays-Saturdays, 10am - 6pm; Sundays, 11am - 9pm Gainesville, Alley Gatorz, 2606 NE Waldo Rd, Gainesville, FL, 32609 / 352-373-0708 Thru September 30, Daily, Open to Close Palm Coast, Palm Coast Lanes, 11 Old Kings Rd. North, Palm Coast, FL, 32137 / 386-445-4004 Thru August 31, Mondays, 12noon to 1pm; Tuesdays-Wednesdays, 12noon to 10pm; Thursdays-Fridays, 12noon to 5pm; Saturdays, Open6pm; Sundays, 9:30am to 12midnight www.kidsbowlfree.com

Painting With a Twist Summer Kids Events Monday thru Friday, June 7-25 Painting With a Twist Ponte Vedra hosts themed painting events for kids this summer. Classes are held at 10am. Cost for one day is $50, or sign up for the week for $200. Register in advance to be sure that you get a spot.

Week 1, Animals June 7 -- Funky Flamingo June 8 -- Neon Turtle June 9 -- Chameleon Party June 10 -- Party Llama June 11 -- Animal Crackers Series Week 2, Outer Space June 14 -- Deja- Add Your Own Planets!

June 15 -- Customize Your Words*To the Moon and Back for Kids June 16 -- Abstract Superhero June 17 -- Paint Your Own Nebula - Set of 3!

June 18 -- Fantastic Flight Week 3, Under the Sea June 21-25 -- Vivid Sea Life - Choose Your Painting!

Painting With a Twist, Ponte Vedra / 904-687-4307 / 268 Solana Rd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.paintingwithatwist.com Doing Dishes Spectacular Story Time June 18, 9am to 10:30am Doing Dishes has elevated their traditional Story Time Art class for summer. They will be reading "How to Catch a Mermaid" and painting a ceramic mermaid tail plate and making a clay shark plaque.

A guardian will need to stay and assist. Cost is $25

Studio on the Go: Drop-In Art Making June 20, 2pm to 4pm The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens hosts Studio on the Go: Drop-In Art Making for all ages.

Held on the third Sunday of the month, the event is free with museum admission. This month features Cheyenne Ledger Drawings.

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens / 904-3566857 / 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.cummermuseum.org

Deals & Discounts

Get Air Summer Jump Pass Thru August 31 Get Air offers a special Summer Pass for guests who want to jump every single day. The pass is valid from June 1, 2021, to August 31, 2021, and gets you three hours of jump time per day. You can also get one friend’s two-hour admission for 25% off and 10% off party packages and merchandise while the card is valid. Quantities are limited.

Admission Guidelines Jumpers taller than 46” will not be admitted into the park using a Little Air Summer Pass. Only children ten years and older can be dropped off without parental supervision. Present the voucher code at the park (on cell phone or printed) to redeem and activate your Summer Pass. This voucher and its promotional value expire August 31, 2021. Summer passes are non-refundable and non-transferable. Only valid at participating locations. One Big Air Summer Pass (for jumpers 46" and taller), $99; One Little Air Summer Pass (for jumpers under 46" tall), $79.

Get Air Trampoline Park / 904-267-1001 / 1564 Park Avenue, Orange Park, FL 32073 / getairsports. com

for the 2021 season. Take flight every day from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend. There is also a new Summer Family Pass option for up to four people to enjoy. Cost is 1 Hour - $99 / 2 Hours - $119 for the Summer Jump Pass, and 1 hour - $229 / 2 hours - $269 for the Summer Family Pass, which includes four passes and four pairs of limited edition jump socks. Once redeemed, you will be given a physical card that you can display with each visit. Current waiver must be on file prior to participation. Check with park for open hours. Cannot be combined with events, parties, or any other offer including Flight Night.

Flight Fit N Fun / 904-551-4035 / 7022 A C Skinner Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / flightadventurepark.com TopGolf Summer Fun Pass Thru September 6 Buy a Summer Fun Pass and enjoy unlimited Topgolf game play all summer long for you and up to five guests. Valid from Memorial Day through Labor Day, weekdays until 5pm. You'll also get exclusive Pass Perks throughout the summer with deals on food, events, retail and more. $20 from every pass will be donated to Let’s Play, an initiative that provides the funding, equipment and play spaces to help kids and families make active play a daily priority. Cost for the summer long pass is $199.

TopGolf / 904-328-2002 / 10531 Brightman Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / topgolf.com Bruster's Free Baby Cone and Doggie Sundaes Participating area Bruster’s offer free Doggie Sundaes for all dogs and a free baby cone for kids 40" or under (42" or under at the Jacksonville location).

Bruster’s / brusters.com Jacksonville Location / 904-221-1441 / 12224 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 Mandarin Location / 904-886-1995 / 11701-60 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 Oakleaf Location / 904-771-0722 / 9590 Applecross Road, Jacksonville, FL 32222 St. Augustine Location / 904-679-3652 / 3501-G Ponce De Leon Blvd., St. Augustine, FL 32084 Mini Mania Monday Mondays, June 7, 14, 21, 28 Every Monday, mini cupcakes at Sweet By Holly are $1 each. There are dozens of flavors to choose from, including key lime, s'mores, German chocolate, and more.

Sweets By Holly / 904-564-2711 / 4624 Town Crossing Dr., Suite 137, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / sweetbyholly.com Beaches Rock Gym Friday Kids Climb Fridays, June 4, 11, 18, 25 Beaches Rock Gym hosts Kids Climb on Fridays.

All Friday long climbers 17 and under are only $10 for a Day Pass (does not include rentals). Each climber will need a waiver signed by their parent or guardian. Waivers can be signed in person or online.

Beaches Rock Gym / 904-222-0707 / 14 West 3rd Street, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 / www.beachesrockgym.com

Flight Fit N Fun Summer Jump Passes Thru September 6 Flight Fit N Fun is offering Summer Jump Passes

JUNE 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 15

EDUCATION

EDUCATION

Summer Reading List for Growing Readers, Teens, and Tweens ho says summer reading has to feel like a chore? This year, challenge kids to pick up a book by W turning summer reading into a game of book bingo! Teachers and parents can visit readbrightly.com to download their Summer Reading Bingo Card for summer break and offer prizes for completed boards.

Here are some book ideas to help get you started!

Growing Reader

Puzzlooies! Space Cats to the Rescue: A Solve-The-Story

by Russell Ginns and Jonathan Maier, illustrated by Kristen Terrana-Hollis

Kingdom Caper #1

by Brett Bean

J.D. and the Great Barber Battle

by J. Dillard, illustrated by Akeem S. Roberts

Good Dogs on a Bad Day

by Rachel Wenitsky and David Sidorov, illustrated by Tor Freeman

The Magnificent Makers #3: Riding Sound Waves

by Theanne Griffith, illustrated by Reggie Brown

Summer Reading List for Growing Readers, Teens, and Tweens Continued...

Tweens

Ballet Bunnies #1: The New Class

by Swapna Reddy, illustrated by Binny Talib

Planet Omar: Incredible Rescue Mission

by Zanib Mian, illustrated by Nasaya Mafaridik

Turtle in Paradise

by Jennifer L. Holm

Marcus Makes a Movie

by Kevin Hart and Geoff Rodkey, illustrated by David Cooper

Kate the Chemist: Dragons vs.

Unicorns

by Kate Biberdorf with Hillary Homzie

Kudo Kids: The Mystery of the Masked Medalist

by Alex Shibutani and Maia Shibutani with Michelle Schusterman, illustrated by Yaoyao Ma Van As

Teens

This Is Your Time

by Ruby Bridges

House of Hollow

by Krystal Sutherland We Are Inevitable

by Gayle Forman

Sunkissed

by Kasie West

Some Girls Do

by Jennifer Dugan

When You Trap a Tiger

by Tae Keller

Perfectly Parvin

by Olivia Abtahi

From Little Tokyo, with Love

by Sarah Kuhn

Escape This Book! Titanic

by Bill Doyle illustrated by Sarah Sax

Kiki Kallira Breaks a Kingdom

by Sangu Mandanna

Happily for Now

by Kelly Jones illustrated by Kelly Murphy

The Gilded Ones

by Nam Luck of the Titanic

by Stacey Lee

Off the Record

by Camryn Garrett ina Forna The Tree in Me

by Corinna Luyken

Dog Squad

by Chris Grabenstein

JUNE 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 16

The Good and the Beautiful Summer Reading Program The Good and the Beautiful is giving away 75,000 free books as part of their Summer Reading Program. Parents can sign up to receive a grade appropriate Summer Reading Pack, which includes two bookmarks, a create-your-own forest scene reading chart with stickers, and a free book. There is a $0.99 Media Mail shipping fee to mail the items to you. When the supplies run out, families can still download the free The Good and the Beautiful Book List online. Additionally, parents can join The Good and the Beautiful Book Challenge. Parents can create a Family Standards Plan and commit to having your family read only books that meet your standards for one year. The website also features a Good and the Beautiful Storytime with over 40 free narrated audio books.

The Good and the Beautiful / www.goodandbeautiful.com I Can Read! Book Club Widely recognized as the premier line of books for beginning readers, and with hundreds of titles conveniently organized into color coded levels, I Can Read! books contain some of the most beloved characters in the history of children’s literature, many created by award-winning authors and illustrators. You will also receive a Pete the Cat Giant Sticker Book, featuring more than 600 fun-filled stickers. Receive a welcome shipment with 2 free books, for only $1 shipping and handling. Get monthly auto-delivery of 5 paperback I Can Read! books to your door. Each book box is $19.95 ($3.99 per book) + $4.99 shipping/handling.

No obligation to purchase additional books, and you may cancel at any time.

I Can Read! / 888-965-8737 / icanread@harpercollinsbookclubs.com / www.harpercollinsbookclubs. com Chuck E. Cheese Reading Rewards Chuck E. Cheese rewards kids who read every day for two weeks. Print out the Reading Rewards Calendar and mark off the days that your child read.

Then, bring in the completed calendar to any participating Chuck E. Cheese location to receive ten free tokens. Child(ren) must be present to redeem. Food purchase is required.

Chuck E. Cheese / www.chuckecheese.com

Grumpy Monkey Freshly Squeezed

by Suzanne Lang, illustrated by Max Lang Kitty Quest

by Phil Corbett

Summer Reading

Prom House

by Chelsea Mueller

Nemours Reading BrightStart!

Nemours BrightStart!’s mission is to promote reading success and prevent reading failure for all children, focusing on birth to age 8. Through innovative programs, research, advocacy and partnerships, they design and implement unique and highly effective tools and training that consistently yield life-changing results. They feature monthly articles, activities, and books, as well as a preschool reading screener to determine reading readiness.

Nemours Reading BrightStart! / www.readingbrightstart.org Florida Library Youth Program Summer Reading: Tails and Tales

readbrightly.com

This summer, area libraries are offering free reading programs to encourage summer reading and learning. The theme is Tails and Tales.

This summer, area libraries are offering free reading programs to encourage summer reading and learning. The theme is Tails and Tales.

Jacksonville Public Library - From June 1 to July 30, school age kids will be able to participate in limited in-branch programs, lots of interactive virtual events, complete fun activities, participate in challenges, go on scavenger hunts and more.

St. Johns County Public Library - From June 7-August 13, 2021 kids can win prizes, create avatars, play games, and more.

Nassau County Public Library - This summer will feature a hybrid reading program. Reading bags and logs now available at your local branch.

Clay County Public Library - Area branches will host free activities including art projects, family movies, storytime, hands on demonstrations, crafts, and more.

Jacksonville Public Library / www.jaxpubliclibrary. org/summer St. Johns County Public Library / www.sjcpls.org Nassau County Public Library / nassaureads.com Clay County Public Library / www.claycountygov. com Sync Summer Reading Program for Teens 2021 Thru August 4 Sync is a free summer audiobook program for teens 13+. Each week, Sync will give away two complete audiobook downloads, pairs of high interest titles, based on weekly themes. Downloads are in MP3 format, hosted by OverDrive, and are Mac and Windows compatible. Each Sync audiobook will be available for download for a period of 7 days only.

Titles, once downloaded, are yours to keep.

Sync Audiobooks / www.audiobooksync.com The FUNdamentals of Reading June 15, 6pm This course is designed to share fun strategies that can effectively assist a struggling reader in becoming more fluent and confident in their reading abilities. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a family resource designed for parents, caregivers, and community members. All Parent Academy courses are free of charge.

Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps.duvalschools. org Barnes and Noble Summer Reading 2021 July 1 thru August 31 Barnes & Noble’s Summer Reading Program is back to give young readers the opportunity to earn a free book by following these three easy steps: 1. Read any eight books this summer and record them in your Summer Reading Journal. Write which part of the book is your favorite, and why. 2. Bring your completed journal to a Barnes & Noble store between July 1 and August 31. 3. Choose your free reading adventure from the book list featured on the back of the journal.

Barnes and Noble / www.barnesandnoble.com

JUNE 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 17

Mandarin High Educator Named Florida Teacher of the Year Finalist COVID-19 Measures for Next School Year Announced Drawing from stakeholder feedback, CDC recommendations, and feedback from local health officials, the district has decided that face masks on school campuses will be optional beginning next school year.

Because elementary students are not yet eligible for vaccines, face coverings for this group are strongly encouraged. District leaders are still considering whether face coverings will be required on buses. This decision will be communicated once determined.

In addition to dropping the mandatory face mask requirement on campuses, the district will also discontinue temperature checks in the 2021-22 school year. Desk shields will be discontinued in secondary schools but available for small group learning situations in elementary schools.

The use of microbial protectant, current cleaning practices, and availability of hand sanitizer will be continued, as will an emphasis on social distancing. Also, the district will continue to use the COVID-19 dashboard to help families understand the COVID-19 impact in their child’s school.

These decisions follow a stakeholder survey on COVID-19 safety measures in which more than 28,600 parents, students, school-based employees, and community members participated.

are among the factors that shaped the COVID-19 mitigation strategies for next year.

These shifts will go into effect starting the first day of school, Tuesday, Aug. 10, 2021.

However, summer learning will serve as a transition period, with face masks being strongly encouraged, but not required, pending Board action on a recommendation to waive face-covering requirements in the current year code of conduct. Social distancing will also be continued.

Survey Results The survey period ran from May 10 – May 24 with more than 28,600 stakeholders providing input on COVID-19 safety measures next year. Highlights include: •

•

•

District leaders say the significant feedback from the survey, CDC and Florida Department of Health recommendations, input from local health experts, current rates of transmission, and availability of vaccinations

JUNE 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 18

Masks: Approximately 49% of stakeholders said masks should be optional. Another 26% said masks should be mandatory, and 22% said masks should only be mandatory in movement and crowded spaces.

Temperature checks: Approximately 46% advised temperature checks should be continued, 19% advised it should only be taken if there is an outbreak, and 33% advised it should be discontinued.

Desk shields: Approximately 41% said all desk shields should be removed, with 18% saying they should continue to be mandatory, and 19% saying they should be available to staff/students who wish to use them.

Duval County’s 2021 VyStar Teacher of the Year – Mandarin High School Teacher Jim Schmitt – received a surprise visit from Florida K-12 Chancellor Jacob Oliva, who announced that Schmitt was chosen as one of five finalists for the 2022 Florida Teacher of Year.

Chancellor Oliva was joined by Duval School Board Member Lori Hershey, Superintendent Dr. Diana Greene, Florida Deputy Chancellor for Educator Quality Dr. Paul Burns, and State Board of Education Member Joe York in making the announcement.

Mr. Schmitt’s wife, Deborah Schmitt, who is also a Mandarin High School teacher, was able to join in on the surprise.

commitment to education doesn’t stop at the classroom; he also effortlessly works with his fellow educators across the district to provide a professional learning community. His work to continually push his students to become self-learners shows a real dedication to education and we are proud to have Mr. Schmitt in our state’s education system.”

“What is most impactful about Mr. Schmitt’s classroom is the use of movement, engagement strategies, and thought-provoking discussion to get all students simultaneously out of their seats and learning,” said Dr. Greene.

Earlier this year, Schmitt was selected from five outstanding semi-finalists as Duval’s 2021 VyStar Winner of the Year.

“Mr. Schmitt’s classroom is a space of true learning and engagement; music plays, debates ensue, student voice is encouraged, and history is not only taught but experienced,” said Sara Bravo, Principal of Mandarin High School.

“My congratulations to James Schmitt as one of five 2022 Florida Teacher of the Year state finalists,” said Commissioner of Education Richard Corcoran. “James’

The 2022 Florida Teacher of the Year will be named on July 22 in Orlando. More information is available on the Florida Department of Education website.

Transportation Survey Results to Guide District’s Next Steps Receiving a text or email about whether their child’s bus will be late has been identified as one of the most important types of communication that stakeholders want, according to the district’s first-ever transportation survey.

About 69% of responders said that having access to that type of communication is extremely important.

Gathering this type of information is very important in helping transportation leadership strengthen how they communicate with families.

“Our goal is to consistently improve not just how we transport students, but how we communicate with families and stakeholders about our services,” said Erika Harding, Director of Transportation Operations. “This survey allowed us the opportunity to have a deeper understanding of what our families need.”

‘I will not let them down’ – Team Duval Leader Recognized for Service in Schools/Community

Among the other types of communication services that more than half of stakeholders said were extremely important were:

For Tia Leathers, growing up in Jacksonville’s northside helped develop her drive to be a leader who invests in her community.

“My life was full of the most resilient and brilliant examples of leadership all around me,” said Leathers. “Retired educators.

Doctors. Politicians. Movie stars. Each and every one of them gave me a bit of them to carry on my journey.

Most Duval Homeroom families responding to a survey indicate they plan to return to on-campus learning, but those who desire to continue online will have new options for the 2021-22 school year.

Locating bus information based on an address (62.50%).

•

Bus stop itineraries that include transfer information (59.66%).

Elementary School Students

•

Knowledge of magnet program transportation options, prior to selecting a school (58.98%).

•

Online notification when a backup bus is needed and/or in service (58.41%)

Elementary school students will have a choice of two programs; both will be offered through the district’s Duval Virtual Instruction Academy (DVIA).

This year, approximately 29,500 students use the district’s transportation services.

community.”

And Leathers has not. Now the Executive Director of Family and Community Engagement, Leathers was recently selected among a record number of nominees to be one of Jacksonville Business Journal’s “40 Under 40.” This annual designation honors the 40 most promising professionals in Northeast Florida.

Leathers – who has been with the district for eight years – manages a $6.2 million budget and is tasked with leading overall partnerships between the district and stakeholders, ranging from business partners to faith-based partners, and from non-profits to government agencies.

Under her leadership, fully certified athletic trainers have been placed in every high school, a nationally recognized parent leadership academy has been established in Duval, and non-profits have banded together to supply school supplies, food, and even internet access to families and students in need.

“This award isn’t about me at all,” said Leathers. “It’s about our children, it’s about our community, and it’s about so many of our school system’s best and brightest.

We all come together every day and show how teamwork can make the dream work for our children and the entire Jacksonville

She also provides oversight for a variety of programs that include Community Education, the Parent Academy, the 5,000 Role Models of Excellence Project, Volunteer Services, and many more.

Navigating the vast government, civic and private networks to get things done for children is a challenge, said Leathers. But it is a challenge that is overcome through building relationships.

“Creating and strengthening authentic relationships in the community and at the district level has been my best strategy to overcome these challenges,” said Leathers. “When you establish real relationships both internally and externally, you are better equipped as a leader to learn, adapt, and be flexible to the challenges that present themselves each day.”

of parents who have access to professional training. Through working with the Jacksonville Public Education Fund, Jacksonville Public Library, and Kids Hope Alliance, Leathers helped establish the Parents Who Lead program in Duval two years ago.

Since then, nearly 40 parents have come through this program, which teaches parents how to be advocates for students. For example, one of the parent-leaders helped bring implicit bias training to Duval last school year.

“I am grateful to have a hand in developing leaders who are leading for the right reasons,” said Leathers. “These are leaders who want to make a difference and will stop at nothing until this world is better just because they’re in it.”

Reflecting on her childhood, Leathers says the desire to invest in her community – the way her community invested in her – is what drives her.

“I will give everything in me to ensure I can remind other children and adults in this community that their temporary circumstances do not write their permanent stories,” said Leathers. “They have hope.”

Leathers said one of the achievements she is most proud of is expanding the number

District Provides Online Options for 2021-22

•

The survey period ran from Jan 14 – Feb 14, 2021, and included questions about transportation eligibility, communication, and bus stop locations. Around 789 people participated in the survey, with parents and students being the largest groups to provide feedback.

“I will not let them down.”

The first is DVIA’s normal asynchronous model of instruction that does not require class attendance at a set time each day.

Each class has a teacher, but lessons are computer-based. Students can complete lessons on their own schedule. Online meetings or check-ins may be required, and the school offers face-to-face support.

However, there are generally no scheduled class meetings.

The second option for elementary school students will be a new DVIA program

called DVIA HomeRoom, a transition from the HomeRoom instructional experience students have known since the onset of the pandemic. This program does include a daily routine of class meetings through Microsoft Teams and will look like the Duval HomeRoom model that students have experienced during the 2020-2021 school year.

All students in DVIA HomeRoom will be enrolled in one school under the DVIA umbrella of services. This consolidation will create efficiency and reduce the number of schedule changes for both teachers and students throughout the year. All students will be required to keep their computer cameras on during instructional time.

Middle and High School Students Middle and high school students will also have the option to enroll in DVIA’s asynchronous program. Because secondary student course requirements are so varied, it is not possible to provide all the courses

needed in both the synchronous and asynchronous platforms.

Through DVIA, middle and high school students can pursue a broad online curriculum for diverse academic goals. The program promotes skills in responsibility, organization, and intrinsic motivation. DVIA students have access to a full-service guidance department for counseling in postsecondary readiness, career planning, and scholarship eligibility. The school even holds its own commencement ceremony for graduating seniors.

Before Making Your Choice Parents and students should be aware of some important factors while considering an online option for the 2021-22 school year. If a family chooses a DVIA option, students will no longer be assigned to their home school. They will be assigned to DVIA. This means that students in choice or

magnet programs would need to reapply and be accepted to return to their respective program in a future year. Also, DVIA students will be required to go to a specific site for any testing that is not authorized for administering in an at-home, non-secure format.

How to apply Current Duval HomeRoom families are receiving this information in their district FOCUS system accounts. So that the district can adequately plan staffing and transition smoothly into the new school year, families are asked to express their enrollment intent by the last day of school this year, Thursday, June 3, through a form available in that system. These parents are also receiving contact information for any additional questions on their options.

About 19,000 students are currently learning through Duval HomeRoom, which will not be an option for full-time instruction next year.

JUNE 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 19

Dear St. Johns Schools parents • Don’t blame County others carelessly and community members, • Treat all people fairly

which is the highest award given by the SuWeek nominees received prize include perintendent of Schools.

Othera awards package Officer of including: the Year, Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) and the Meritorious Service to • list $2,000 a few. cash prize from No Kid Hungry.

Tony serves in a number of civic duties. He is currently an adviser to Hastings Youth Acad• emy,Tampa Bay Buccaneers and previously was the pastPrize co-chair of the Pack 7th Circuit JuvenileofJustice fromDepartment the DairyofCouncil (DJJ).

He served as the past Board President Florida for the Hope Pavilion Group Home in Hastings. a Minister at the LordTrophy Temple City of • He isSchool Lunch Hero Refuge Ministries and currently serves as a of the Chaplain Corps for the SJSO. • member Certificate of Appreciation is married to Cherl, and they are proud • Tony One-on-One Experience of their six children,Chef who have graduated from Putnam and St Johns County Districts. Tony and Cherl have 14 grandchildren. Tony enjoys mentoring kids, coaching girls Rec basketball, and high school football.

CITIZENSHIP

CARING

December Character Counts Pillar: All Pillars

New School Board Member Sworn In Anthony Coleman was sworn in as a newly elected member of the St. Johns County School Board during the School Board’s Reorganization onbest November No one thinksMeeting at their when17th.

Coleman replaces Board Member Tommy Allen they’reDistrict hungry. serving 2. School nutrition professionals areColeman crucialwas to the Anthony “Tony” bornsuccess in Palatka, of Florida’s students because healthy Florida and grew up in Hastings.

While living there, Tony attended Hastings Elementary bodies lead to ready minds. During School. Later, he entered Hastings High school, the pandemic, these and vitalcompeted staff in where he played football track & field.

Tony excelled in sports and exprofessionals have demonstrated became a high school star athlete. In fact, he ceptional ingenuitySt.by implementing went on to represent Johns County as its new safety protocols in-person first-ever champion in thefor state of Florida for the track & and field preparing 100-yard dash.

Aftermeals gradstudents to-go uating in 1983, Tony earned a scholarship fortrack distance for & fieldlearners. at Edward Waters College in Jacksonville, Florida. Sometime later, Tony earned state certification in Law Enforcement That’s why this Florida Deand Correction fromyear Firstthe Coast Technical partment of Agriculture & Consumer College.

Anthony has an associate degree from Vincennes Services University. asked Florida schools to In 1986, Anthony careernuin law nominate theirstarted heroichisschool enforcement with the Putnam County Sheriff’s tritionbefore professionals a week of Office joining the for St. Johns County Sheriff’s Officeduring in April the of 1988, a patrol celebration firstasweek of officer. During his time with SJSO, Anthony May. in both Patrol and Community-Orientworked ed Policing (COP) before moving over to the Youth Resource Deputy (YRD) section. Anthony worked as a YRD for the Gaines Alternative Center, Murray Middle, Pedro Menendez High School as well as several of the district elementary schools. He also spent one-year

COUNTS!

school year, the SJCSD will transition to the following health and safety procedures: Responsibility The Jim Harbin Student Media Festival has I would like to every family • Face masks will be recommended, • Do what youthank are supposed to do associbeen around for 45+ years! It was Jim ated with the SJC school district this year. but optional in school and on SJCSD • Plan ahead Harbin's vision and is FAME's vision to teach, This has been a unique and challenging transportation • Persevere: keep on trying! encourage and recognize Florida's student school year.doWe arebest in the final four weeks • Desk shields will no longer be a • Always your media producers. Student filmmakers learn of•the and your support has been mandatory feature of all classrooms Useyear self-control many valuable lessons from equipment usage critical to the success students have but will be used as appropriate when • Be self-disciplined & care to copyright laws to protect artists like ST. J OHNS C OUNTY SCHOOL DproISTRICT experienced.

We still have numerous high needed for health and safety themselves. They celebrate the learning and • Think before you act — consider the consequences stakes assessments administer and and attitudes tection or instructional/assessment creativity of Florida's young artists.

• Be accountable fortoyour words, actions, feel thata itgood is imperative we maintain purposes • Set example forthat others expectations and way of work until Watch Sophia’s video on the St. Johns County our • Temperature checks will no longer be Citizenship School District website! the last day of school on June 10. daily routine when students, staff or • Do your share to make your school and communityabetter visitors arrive at school • Cooperate We• are fatigued from the experience • Enhanced sanitation practices will Get all involved in community affairs of•the pandemic and staff members have continue in our facilities to ensure Stay informed; vote teaching history at BKA (Brother Keeper worked tirelessly to support children in clean, healthy schools • Be a good neighbor Academy Charter School) which was founded our • schools.

Obey lawsThroughout and rules this public health • Athletics, events, plays/performancby his brother, Pastor Coleman. crisis, we have utilized guidance and reces, and dances will occur next school • Respect authority Food Manager at Liberty ommendations of federal, state, and local year. Protocols will be adjusted as we Tony Service was instrumental in starting the SJ• Protect the environment SO’s first local Dolphins cheer public health agencies.

As we continue to receive guidance from FHSAA and Pines Academy, Aliciafootball Smith,and was • Volunteer programs which have served hundreds of follow the guidance of the CDC, I would other state and local agencies.

Respect one suchinnominee.

SheFlagler was Estates, honored students the Hastings, Arm- like to share our intent moving forward • Treat others with respect; follow the Golden Rule asstrong one and of five School Lunch WestFlorida St Augustine areas. so•that familiesand areaccepting informedofabout the We will maintain these procedures barring Be tolerant differences Heroes by the Florida Department of school health and safety protocols for this any future emergency orders or crisis Throughout Tony’s 30 years of public service, • Use good manners, not bad language he has received number of awards.

Among summer and next of school year. of others events. Again, thank you for your continAgriculture andaConsumer Services • Be considerate the feelings these recognitions are the highest award given ued support this school year.

• Don’t threaten, hit, or hurt anyone during an Johns eventCounty, broadcast onWhite Faceby the St. the Guy Award, Beginning with summer programs on • Deal peacefully with anger, insults, and disagreements in addition Learning Award, Legacy book Live. toAllthe School Lunch Hero June 14 and going into the 2021-2022 Tim Forson Caring FAIRNESS

The Jim Harbin Student Media Festival is a student-driven program where students create media presentations from idea, to storyboard, to production, to presentation. Students work creatively to design and produce a media forum for their message and compete state-wide with students from each county in Florida. The culminating even is a red-carpet affair at the Florida Association for Media in Education’s (FAME) Annual Conference. The experience is one of the most rewarding of the

students' academic career. Students compete at three different levels: elementary, middle, and high.

Fairness

RESPECT

Congratulations to Switzerland Point Middle School student Sophia Goral for her first place state-wide win in the annual Jim Harbin Student Media Festival!

CHARACTER • Play by the rules Message from • Take turns and share • Be open-minded; listen to others Superintendent Forson • Don’t take advantage of others RESPONSIBILITY

Jim Harbin Student Media Florida School Lunch Hero Festival Winner

• Be kind • Be compassionate and show you care • Express gratitude • Forgive others May 3 – June 10, 2021 FSA Testing – Grades 7-10 ELA / Math, Follow EOCs us on Twitter • Help people in need @StJohnsCountySD – June 2021 High School District Exams • May Be charitable and altruistic Trustworthiness June 8, 20201 School Board Meeting, 9am – 10am, SJCSD Administrative Building Auditorium • Be honest June deceive, 10, 2021 cheat, or steal Last Day for Students • Don’t • Be reliable – do what you say you’ll do June the 10, courage 2021 • Have to do the right thing Report Cards – Elementary Only • Build good Connect June a11, 2021reputation Last Day for Teachers – Teacher Planning Day on Facebook @St Johns County • Be loyal – stand by your family, friends, and country

St. Johns County June 2021 School Calendar

June 22, 2021

School District School Board Workshop, 9am – 10am, SJCSD Administrative Building Auditorium

June 28, 2021

Half-Cent Sales Surtax Citizens Advisory Committee Meeting, 4pm – 5pm, Virtual

St. Johns County December 2020 School Calendar

All Schools participate in a weekly early release on Wednesday: Elementary @1:45, Middle December 2020 All – January ..............Winter Break – Student/Teacher @12:50, High21, @ 2:50. schools 1, will2021 be dismissed one hour early on June 10, 2021Holiday

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

JUNE 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 20

employees.

Interested? Go to oneclay.net to find open positions and online applications, job descriptions, completely salary schedules, and other resources you may need.

Clay County School News

School District News

TRUSTWORTHINESS

St. Johns County

of Instructional Personnel Services serves the School District of Clay County by focusing their efforts on the recruitment, hiring and retention of a diversified and highly qualified instructional staff whose mission is to provide students with learning opportunities that are rigorous, relevant and transcend beyond the boundaries of the classroom.

2021 P Princip Announ

Equal Opportunity Employer: The School Congratulations to G Now Hiring Instructional and District of Clay County is an Equal OpportuHigh Principal Jen Ha Congratulations Summer Offerings Human Resources: The Human Resources nity Employer.

They do not discriminate on Principal of the Year, Support Positions, Apply Now When are thinking aboutreligion, giving, consider the gift of time, talent and your experience!

Department strives to provide the necessary the you basis of race, color, sex, mariHigh Assistant Princi Principal Jen Halter!

Whether you are starting your career resources or you Nonand Instructional Opportunities: The depart- Take human organizational culture tal Stock status, age, anational origin disability.

Clay County District Schools com- or in Children, state-wideare mentoring program for Grade low-income public school • 5th Science Camp County's 2021 Assis are an experienced professional, the School ment of Non-instructional Personnel Services students, is in need of adult mentors in Clay County. mitted to providing opportunities for support the District in its vision to prepare Employment of personnel in Clay County is District of Clay County cantooffer a wide range serves the School District of Clay County by National Principals Month, and at the Visit Recovery the School Distr • 6th-12th Grade Credit our students to have a safe, healthy, completed, of rewarding careers, as well as support to seeking highly forand the life-long learners for success in applicants aState global in compliance with Federal State national levelqualified as the Coordinator After the training and application process isand theLaws time commitment is approxiYouTube chanhelp you grow. Visit oneclay.net to explore the variety employmentschool opportunities withinof and productive looks during• the Algebra mately one hour nondiscrimination persummer. week in aCCDS public school regular school year. Recovery for ESE for allofsecondary principals 1 Credit competitive workplace. regarding and preference. different types of positions with the district. their school system and to provide a diverse, nel to watch forward to a great experience of sumFlorida for the National ONLY well-qualified workforce whoAssociation are dedicatedof Individuals with disabilities are encouraged Interested?

Call (904) 272-8144 or go to www.takestockinchildren.org for more theinformation. moments mer learning.

Secondary School Instructional Opportunities: The department to the realization of thePrincipals. full potentialPrincipal of all Opportunities: Great eduto apply.

Any person who believes he or she of Instructional PersonnelAdministrative Services serves the employees.

Halter is part of Education Class 6 for • Algebra 1 Boot Camp 7 high Jen -and Janice For theneed summer of 2021, Clay Countyandschool School District of Clay County by focusing their Leadership cational leaders are vital to our and future, and 2021 Principal Assistant Florida is also curmay reasonable accommodations during sites found out about efforts on the recruitment, hiring and retention Interested? Go to oneclay.net to find open District Schools will host the following rently earning herapplications, doctorate in Educaseeingpositions students succeed canjob bedescripits the application, testing or interview process of a diversified and highlyalthough qualified instructionand online Principal of the Year academic programs: • 11th-12th Grade the ESOLannounceSummer tional Leadership from the University al staff whose mission is to provide students many tions, completely salary schedules, andways other own reward, people are looking for should notify the appropriate department or Reading Programment! of North you Florida. with learning opportunities that are rigorous, resources may need.

• Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten to grow professionally without losing the sat- Announced school office in advance. relevant and transcend beyond the boundaries Equal Opportunity The School “It’s an honor to Employer: be a finalist!

I have • Extended School Year Services as of the classroom.

Congratulations to Green Cove Springs Junior isfaction of influencing young minds.

A Opportuschool • Rising K, K, 1st, 2nd, & 3rd Grade District of Clay County is an Equal learned great leadership High Principal Jen Halter, Clay County's 2021 determined by the IEP team administration career is one path. Like Contact Human Resources: The Human Resources nity Employer.

Theysuch do not discriminate on Summer Reading Principal of theInformation Year, and toCamp Orange Park Junior Department strives to provide the necessary basisfrom of race, color, sex,and mariskills so religion, manyare leaders High Assistant Principal Janice Tucker, Clay teachers, schoolthe administrators essential Congratulations Principal Jen Halter human resources and organizational culture tal status, age, national origin or disability.

• 4th,2021 5th, 6th Virtual Summer County's Assistant Principal of the Year. fellow colleagues at the district, state, Human Resources Department onsupport being the named the 2021 tovision the tosuccess their schools and districts, to District in its prepare of Employment of personnel in Clay County is Visit the School District Clay County Florida Reading and Math Camp nationalwith levels.

I am life-long learners for success in they a globalnever and inand compliance Federal andpassionate State Laws 900 Walnut Street YouTube chanand lose sight of the goal: providing Florida Principal of the Year! Principal regarding about this work and making sure all competitive workplace. nondiscrimination and preference. nel to watchCove Springs, FL 32043 Green Halter is in her sixth year princithe ofbest education to their students. students havedisabilities positive are learning exIndividuals with encouraged June Calendar the moments Administrative Opportunities: GreatJunior eduto apply. Any and person who believes or she palship at Green Cove Springs periences achieve greathe success Phone: 904-336-6706 Jen and Janice cational leaders are vital to our future, and may reasonable High. Previous to her role as Princiabout1 – 3 bothneed in and out of accommodations the classroom!”during found Fax:out904-336-6556 June Early Dismissal, Junior High Schools although seeing students succeed can be its the application, testing or interview process the announcepal, she served as the assistant and said Principal Halter. withnotify us!the appropriate department or ment! own reward, many people are lookingConnect for ways should vice-principal at Green Cove Springs to grow professionally without losing the satisfaction of influencing young minds.lead A school Junior High where she helped administration career is one such path. Like teachers, school administrators essential the school from a “C” to anare“A” to the success their schools and districts, school grade,ofwhich has continued to and they never lose sight her of theleadership. goal: providing be maintained under the best education to their students.

school office in advance.

Take Stock in Children

Fortify Activity

June 3 ​​Early Dismissal, Elementary and High Schools “Jennifer Halter is an outstanding educator that believes all students have Contact Information June 3 ​​Last Day for Students FortifyFL is a suspici the right to a high-quality education.

Human Resources Department She is an integral part of our school that allows you to ins Regular School Board Meeting, Teacher Training 900 Walnut Street June 3, 6pm – 9pm district and works diligently to ensure Center, Fleming Island High School, Villageto Square Parkway appropriate law en Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 Principal Halter leads at the state level Phone: that Clay County is one of the best 904-336-6706 officials.

June 4 Last Day, Teachers – Planningschool Day on the board of the Florida Association Fax: places for teachers and students to 904-336-6556 Connect with us! of Secondary School Principals for the learn and grow. It is an honor to see Florida Association of School her recognized at the state level and June 10 ​Report Cards to ParentsBy accessing FortifyF also have access to your tips to make sure FortifyFL is a suspicious activity reporting tool I continueReports to look forward to her next December 4 – Interim description of the thr proper stepsMeeting, are taken. that allows you to instantly relay information Administrators where she works to Regular School Board Teacher Training steps – as9pm a leader,” said SuperintenJuneMeeting, 24, 6pm – 9pm December 10, 6pm – Regular School Board Teacher Training Center, to appropriate law enforcement agencies and Center, Fleming Island High School, Villageand Square Parkway submi champion other great school prinoptionally dent David Broskie. school officials.

FortifyFL was created and funded by the 2018 cipals’ work across the state during Fleming Island High School, Village Square Parkway tion.

December

Fortify Florida: Suspicious CalendarActivity Reporting App

Florida Legislature as part of the Marjory December December Calendar 23 – January 3 – Christmas/New Year’s Break, Student/Teacher By accessing FortifyFL, students can provide a Holiday Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety

December 4 – Interim Reports description of the threat, share pics and videos Act. The application was named by students December 10, 6pm – 9pm – Regular School Board Meeting, Teacher Training Center, The tip from Marjory Stoneman Douglas Highreport School. goes t and optionally submit their contact informaFleming Island High School, Village Square Parkway tion.

The Office of Attorney General, Department www.oneclay.net officials when submi December 23 – January 3 – Christmas/New Year’s Break, Student/Teacher Holiday of Education and Florida Department of Law OP/Middleburg (904) 272-8100 • Green Cove Springs (904) 284-6500 department or sherif Enforcement coordinated its development and The tip report goes to your local school www.oneclay.net Keystone Heights (888) 663-2529 • TDD (904) 284-6584 roll-out. officials when submitted, your local police your tips automatica OP/Middleburg (904) 272-8100 • Green Cove Springs (904) 284-6500 department or sheriff office receive copies of Keystone Heights (888) 663-2529 • TDD (904) 284-6584 your tips automatically, and state-level officials Download on the App Store or Google Play.

JUNE 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 21

Things to Do

PETS

12 Types of Starfish for Saltwater Aquariums N

o saltwater aquarium is complete without a starfish. Starfish look attractive and help keep the aquarium clean. There are many breeds available, and each has a unique color combination and specific needs. Matching a starfish up to your environment only requires comparing a few variables to make sure your starfish can be healthy without throwing off the ecosystem of your tank.

Asterina Starfish The Asterina Starfish is not the type of starfish you buy as a pet. This species gets into the aquarium by accident when you place a live rock or other materials in your tank, and it’s hiding within. They reproduce extremely quickly, which can become a significant problem if not dealt with quickly.

Basket Starfish The Basket Starfish is a very strange-looking starfish that can grow quite large and is extremely delicate. This breed requires a constant stream of nutrients to feed on, which can prove challenging.

Blue Linckia Starfish The Blue Linckia Starfish is a deep blue, hardy starfish that can reach up to 12 inches across. However, most specimens are damaged while still in the ocean as they are very delicate and do not transport well.

Brittle Starfish Brittle Starfish have long arms that break easily. Once broken, the arm will flop around to attract a predator’s attention while the starfish flees. Once it has reached safety, the arm will begin to grow back like a lizard tail.

Chocolate Chip Starfish Once you see a Chocolate Chip Starfish, you can understand how they got their name. These starfish have an orange body with bits of white between the fingers, and brown knobby spines that closely resemble chocolate chips cover the entire top. This breed is one of the easier kinds of starfish to maintain, and they are popular in aquariums because they are active.

Double Star Starfish Double Star Starfish come in a wide range of colors that make any aquarium look amazing. However, they are notoriously difficult to feed and can die of starvation even under expert supervision.

Green Brittle Starfish Green Brittle Starfish look similar to Brittle Starfish with a green tint. However, they are a different breed entirely and are quite aggressive. Since these starfish can grow up to one foot across, they require a large tank.

Luzon Starfish The Luzon Starfish is a unique breed that reproduces by breaking off an arm that grows into a new starfish. They are not hard to maintain but require a special diet.

Luzon Starfish usually grow to about five inches.

Marble Starfish Marble Starfish refers to a group of starfish that have similar markings. These starfish grow to about six inches and are known for their hardiness and long life.

across.

Red Knobbed Starfish The Red Knobbed Starfish is white with red stripes. This breed is very easy to maintain and can reach up to 12 inches

Sand Sifting Starfish Sand Sifting Starfish is possibly the most popular breed of aquarium starfish.

They are interesting, active, and are not difficult to maintain. As their name suggests, they spend their time sifting through sand, looking for morsels of food, helping to keep the aquarium clean. Sand Sifting Starfish can grow to eight inches wide and are safe to house in a reef tank.

Serpent Starfish Serpent Starfish lack the spikes and bristles that the Brittle Starfish have. The Serpent Starfish body is entirely smooth, and they come in a variety of colors. They are easy to care for, and they mostly seek out dead prey or leftovers. !

Starfish can be quite challenging to raise in the home aquarium, but successfully doing so can be quite rewarding. Once you have your skillset, any of the varieties is a worthy challenge. j petkeen.com

JUNE 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 22

Pet Events

ShotVet Pet Clinics June 5-6, 13, 20, 27 Low-cost pet vaccinations given by licensed veterinarians. No appointments are necessary.

Bruster's Ice Cream – June 6, 20, 12noon to 1pm Ace Hardware – June 5, 8am to 9am Tires Plus – June 5, 10am to 11am Lowe's – June 5, 12noon to 1pm Starbucks – June 6, 20, 2pm to 3pm PDQ Restaurant – June 6, 20, 4pm to 5pm Cure Pharmacy at Publix – June 6, 10am to 11am O'Reilly's Auto Parts – June 6, 20, 8am to 9am Chili's – June 13, 27, 3:30pm to 4:30pm Dunkin' Donuts – June 13, 27, 12:30pm to 1:30pm ShotVet / 407-792-0384 / info@shotvet. com / www.shotvet.com Bruster's Ice Cream / 12224 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 Tires Plus / 13162 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville FL 32225 Starbucks / 13315 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 Ace Hardware / 2771 Monument Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 PDQ Restaurant / 3260 Hodges Blvd, Jacksonville FL 32224 Cure Pharmacy at Publix / 7001 Merrill Rd #13, Jacksonville, FL 32277 O'Reilly's Auto Parts / 4124 Emerson Street, Jacksonville, FL 32207 Lowe's / 8080 Philips Hwy, Jacksonville, FL 32256 Chili's / 13891 Old St Augustine Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32258 Dunkin' Donuts / 12709 Bartram Park Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32258 Online Event: Teen & Tween Sewing & Crafting-Dog Toy June 9, 4:30pm Teens and Tweens, grades 6-12, join Miss Carla in sewing a dog toy. Pick up a kit at your local library branch while supplies last; kits are limited. This is a Facebook event that you can watch on the library Facebook page.

St. Johns County Public Library / 904-8276940 / libm@sjcfl.us / sjcpls.org Canines and Crustaceans at the Jumbo Shrimp Game June 9, 27, 7:05pm The Jumbo Shrimp and Forever Vets Animal Hospital welcome you and your canine companion to 121 Financial Ballpark.

Canines get in free as long as their human companion buys a ticket. Dog-free seating

is located in section 119, the Wheelhouse Lounge, and the Suite Level. Tonight’s game is against the Norfolk Tides.

121 Financial Ballpark / 904-358-2846 / 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jaxshrimp.com Conquistador Festival for Vets & Pets June 19, 11am to 7pm The Conquistador Festival for the Florida National Guard Foundation supports the members of the Florida National Guard.

There will be a best-decorated bike competition, food, games, and live music.

The Bike Competition will consist of four categories: Most Patriotic, Best Custom, Ladies Choice, and Best of Show. You will be given your entry number when you arrive at the fairgrounds. Be sure to bring your own blanket or chair. No outside coolers or food or beverage. Please bring a can or bag of dog or cat food to support the Friends of Jacksonville Animals. Tickets range from $10 to $25.

St. Johns County Fairgrounds / 5840 State Road 207, Elkton, FL 32033 / friendsofjaxanimals.com Repticon Jacksonville June 19-20, 9am to 4pm Repticon returns to Jacksonville with social distancing measures in place. Repticon Jacksonville is one of Repticon’s fastest-growing shows and will be packed with a large selection of reptiles and exotic pets, pet products, reptile-themed merchandise, and reptile-related fun. One-day tickets are $10 (Adult), $5 (Ages 5-12), ages 4 and under are free. Two-day tickets and VIP Tickets are also available. Tickets are available online only; no tickets will be sold at the door. All guest tickets will be pre-sold in two-hour increments. Guests will have access to the show during the specific two hours for which they purchased tickets only.

Jacksonville Ice and Sportsplex / 863-2684273 / 3605 Philips Hwy., Jacksonville, FL 32207 / repticon.com Paint Your Own Pet June 27, 2pm to 5pm Painting With a Twist Ponte Vedra hosts a Paint Your Own Pet event. Attendees need to email a picture of their pet to the studio as soon as they register. Pictures need to be received at least one week before the class.

Cost is $55 per person for a 16x20 canvas.

Painting With a Twist Ponte Vedra / 904687-4307 / 268 Solana Rd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.paintingwithatwist. com

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

THINGS TO DO IllumiZoo Summer Spectacle Fridays, June 4 through August 27, 6pm to 10pm The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens presents an IllumiZoo Summer Spectacle. The zoo will be transformed into an illuminated wonderland, with music-synchronized animal displays, and animated motifs of moving light. Highlights include whimsical animal stilt-walkers, live music at Riverview Garden and Range of the Jaguar, fog bubbles, aquatic projections, and marine photo walls for selfies at Play Park, food and drink specials, interactive moving projection paws to engage kids and adults, fire and ice theme including fire spinning and lighted hula hoops at Gardens at Trout River Plaza, activities for kids, and unlimited Wildlife Carousel rides for children. Cost is $20 for members, and $25 for non members. Children 2 and under are free.

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens / 904-757-4463 / 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218/ http://www. jacksonvillezoo.org St. Augustine Greek Festival To Go June 4, 3pm to 8pm and June 5, 11am to 7pm The St. Augustine Greek Festival is a To-Go event this year. The online menu features dinners, a la carte dishes, grilled favorites, desserts, and panned specialties. Plan contactless pick-up for your order between 3pm to 8pm on June 4 and 11am to 7pm on June 5. To save time and secure your favorite dish (quantities are limited), they recommend pre-ordering online. Remember to stock up as panned entrees come pre-cooked and frozen to enjoy later.

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church / 904-829-0504 / 2940 County Road 214, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.staugustinegreekfestival.com Use It, Don’t Lose It! Preventing the Summer Slide June 8, 6:30pm Parents and caregivers will find this video full of helpful information, including ideas you can use to engage your child(ren) in creative ways to keep learning throughout the summer. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth.

Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps.duvalschools. org 2021 Annual HERI Bookbuster June 12, 9am to 12noon Local homeschool group,H.E.R.I., hosts their 2021 Bookbuster event. There will be tables with preowned homeschool books, curriculum for pre-school through 12th grade, fiction/non-fiction books, games, puzzles, computer games, cds, dvds, audiobooks, workbooks, themed unit studies, adult books, manipulatives, and more for sale. Non-HERI members can enter at 9am; members enter at 8:30am.

Entry fee is $2/adult for HERI members and $3 for non-members. Cash only will be accepted at the door for the entry fee. Due to the number of people that attend this event, for safety reasons, wheeled carts and/or strollers will not be permitted on the sales floor. Open to the public, not just homeschool families. Cash, debit and credit are acceptable forms of payment for items purchased.

Hillcrest Baptist Church / 7673 Collins Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32244 / herijax.com

Tortoise Walk: The Beloved Gopher June 12, 10am Come learn from experts what makes this humble reptile a “keystone species” which 350 other species depend upon for survival. Space is limited and tickets are $5; children 5 and under are free. A portion of the proceeds will benefit a local tortoise rescue.

Jacksonville Arboretum / 1445 Millcoe Road, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / www.jacksonvillearboretum.org Orange Park Kids Fest 2021 June 12-13, 10am to 4pm The Town of Orange Park hosts Kids Fest 2021. The event features games and activities, displays, interactive shows, live music, food, and shopping. This event is designed with children 12 and younger in mind. Many activities are free, including train rides, playground, mini golf, touch-a-truck zone, Junior Firefighter Academy, finger painting & sensory play, and an obstacle course. Other activities are premium activities and will require a wristband or ticket.

Admission and parking are free.

Town Hall Park / 904-278-3043 / 2042 Park Avenue, Orange Park, FL 32073 / opkidsfest.com Big and Little Chef: Fruits and Vegetables June 13, 10am Big Chef, Little Chef series classes are designed specifically for a guardian/parent, older sibling (18 or older), etc. paired with a young chef. Each pair will work together (along with the rest of the students) to create delicious recipes that are appropriate for adults and kids alike. Big Chef must be 18 or older, and the Little Chef age range should be 5–12 years old. The menu features Berry Smoothies & Carrot-Apple Juice, Butternut Squash Spiral Salad with Homemade Ranch Dressing, Baked Italian Parmesan Squash Stacks with Marinara Sauce, and Banana Pudding. Cost is $75 for each parent/child combo.

Publix Aprons Cooking School / 904-262-4187 / 10500 San Jose Blvd Ste 36, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.publix.com Online Event: Gen Z Crafts June 25, 4pm The St. Johns County Public Library hosts a special craft event for Gen Z kids. Pick up craft kits at your local library branch, while supplies last. This is an online event that you can watch on on the library website, Facebook page, or YouTube channel. Free.

St. Johns County Public Library / 904-827-6940 / sjcpls.org Full Moon Friday Luau June 25, 6pm to 9pm In celebration of summer, the City of St. Augustine Beach will host its first-ever Full Moon Friday Luau.

During the evening, Prince Pele and his Polynesians will take guests on an imaginary trip of the South Pacific. Through colorful costumes and traditional songs and dances, audiences discover the vibrant culture of the South Pacific. Participants can learn how to “hula” dance, a tradition from the island of Hawaii; how to “swing the poi balls,” a New Zealand favorite pastime, or how to “gather the tropical fruits,” a cultural must in Tahiti. The show will culminate in a Samoan Sword Fire Dance. In addition to the evening’s performance, the event will feature local artist booths and food vendors. Free to attend.

St. Augustine Beach Pier / 904-471-2122 / 350 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine Beach, FL 32080 / www. visitstaugustine.com

Father's Day Events Perfect Prints Father's Day Event June 2 and 5, 9am to 1pm Doing Dishes hosts a Father's Day event.

Make an appointment, stop by the studio, and let the Doing Dishes Print Pros get the perfect prints, then leave the custom painting to them. All ages welcome. Your pieces will be ready for pick-up approximately two to four weeks after your appointment.

Doing Dishes / 904-730-3729 / 5619 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www. doingdishes.com Jumbo Shrimp Father's Day Promotion June 13, 6:35pm The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp celebrate Dads with a Dropping Our Drawers On Fathers' Day promotion. All fathers are encouraged to come to the ballpark as hundreds of blue boxer shorts are dropped off before the game to raise awareness for prostate cancer. This is the last home game before Father's Day. It is also Baptist Health Sunday Family FUNday, where kids can run the bases and enjoy free face painting and balloon animals.

121 Financial Ballpark / 904-358-2846 / 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jaxshrimp.com Sur La Table: Make & Take: Father's Day Feast June 19, 1pm Enjoy a family summer meal with this grill kit, perfect for celebrating Father's Day. The chef will share the best ways to marinate and grill fresh ingredients to create flavorful Beer Can Chicken and delicious sides. For dessert, learn how to make S'mores Bars, a twist on a summer classic.

By the end of class, you'll go home with a menu for four complete with instructions on how to reheat and cook. Cost is $79/ seat. For ages 14 and up. A paying adult must accompany ages 17 & under.

Sur La Table / 904-719-7597 / 4713 River City Drive, Suite 109, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.surlatable.com Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant Father's Day Grill Kit June 19-20, 9am to 3pm McMillin and his team have put together a grill kit for the family this year. The kit

serves four and includes Pretzel Bread & Butter, Classic Tomato Bruschetta Burrata, Basil, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Balsamic Glaze, Four 8-oz Filets Chef Matt's Special Seasoning Pack, Four Baked Potatoes with Toppings Whipped Butter, Sour Cream, Aged Cheddar, Applewood Smoked Bacon, Scallion, Asparagus, and Lemon Pound Cake Crème Légère, Summer Berries. Kits must be ordered by Wednesday, June 16, and picked up at your designated time on June 19-20. Cost of kit is $199.99.

Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant / 904-559-4999 / 4850 Big Island Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / chwinery.com Father's Day Gone Fishing Painting Event June 19, 2pm to 4pm Painting With a Twist hosts a Father's Day Gone Fishing painting event. Ages ten and up are invited to paint a fish scene on an 18x18 wood shiplap pallet. Please bring your own mask to the studio. Cost is $41/ person.

Painting With a Twist, Fruit Cove / 904518-4932 / 104 Bartram Oaks Walk, Ste 105, St. Johns, FL 32259 / www.paintingwithatwist.com Wicked Barley Brewing Company Father's Day Brunch June 20, 9am to 4pm Wicked Barley Brewing Company hosts an All-About-Dad Extravaganza featuring beer releases, brunch specials and more.

Wicked Barley Brewing Company / 904379-7077 / 4100 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / www.wickedbarley.com Daddy Daughter Tea & Paint Party June 20, 2:30pm to 4:30pm Girls are invited to bring their dads, grandpas, or uncles for a special Daddy Daughter Tea & Paint Party. Admission will include brunch, tea, mimosas, petite desserts, and painting. There will also be poetry, raffles, prizes, and music. Tickets are $80 for one father/daughter pair.

Brick and Beam / 904-321-7669 / 1101 N. Main Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206 / www.bwapb.com

JUNE 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 23

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