Think Downtown Magazine - The Holidays 2010

Winter 2010

www.thinkdowntownmagazine.com

ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY EDITION

think gratitude thank you to these friends & supporters of think downtown magazine!

Caribbean Jack’s

Mike & Nikki Mastando

City of Daytona Beach

Museum of Arts & Sciences

Davidson Brothers

Renew Yoga Studio

Tim Davis

Randee & Larry Saffer

Downtown Daytona Farmer’s Market

Salon 230 & Spa Above

Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce

Stacey Lipton Interiors

Daytona Beach Redevelopment Agency

Surfscape Contemporary Dance Theatre

Daytona Lagoon

Tom Cook Jeweler

Halifax Health

Naomi Weiss

Halifax Historical Museum

Jack & Kelly White

Juice Plus

Jack White Land Company

Sans Lassiter

VIP Printing

Lassiter Transportation

Wm. Ritzi & Co. Jewelers

Mastando Media

Zgraph Web Development & Marketing

McK’s Tavern

please support those who support downtown! www.thinkdowntownmagazine.com

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WINTER 2010 ISSUE

18

10

4

editor’s note & staff

6

in season now

7

parade in the park

8

10 fall-friendly restaurant menu options

9

nest bliss

10

20

Sensational holiday starters.

Find out all of the festive details for this one-of-a-kind event!

Blogger Christina Lane ventures to the French Market Downtown.

gift guide for the difficult

Some great ideas for those folks on your list who always keep you guessing.

14

think calendar

16

give a little love

18

how to host a cookie decorating party

19

10 must-do’s this holiday season.

20

think health & beauty

21

people & places

22

think market

Consider a gift or donation to these important Downtown charities and non-profits.

Helpful holiday stressbusters.

Meet Quanita of Quanita’s Social Dancing and read about Cinematique’s new location next door to Ivy Lane Bistro Downtown.

think staff publishers Daytona Beach Partnership Mastando Media editor Naomi Weiss art director Nikki Mastando sales director Mike Mastando Thank you to the following Think Magazine editorial contributors:

Christina Lane Nikki Mastando Mike Mastando Advertising Inquiries: Mike Mastando at 386-846-4292 Mike@MastandoMedia.com “Like” us at www.Facebook.com/ThinkDowntown Find all issues of Think Downtown Magazine at www.Issuu.com/MastandoMedia

editor’s note Happy Merry Winter!

I can hardly believe that it has been one year since the release of our first issue last November.

This has certainly been a year for growth and learning.

I am thankful and proud to say that the conception of this magazine, this small voice of your downtown community, has been widely embraced by the area at large.

We have doubled the size of the magazine, and more than tripled the distribution. We have incorporated the details of another downtown, and continually grown the advertising support. For what takes most new magazines to build in two to three years, we have done in one.

This successful growth has happened because of you. We have learned that what we hoped was true is, in fact, true… you care about your downtown community. You want to read about what is happening in your neighborhood. You prefer to know and support your local shopkeepers and restaurants.

You are passionate about the Every Saturday Farmers Market.

You love Riverfront Park and the Halifax Art Festival.

Our vision for the next year is to continue growing and learning. We plan to continue telling the story of downtown as we welcome new businesses and celebrate the anniversaries of established ones. We encourage you to support us by supporting our advertisers and consider taking an ad for your own business or special project. We also hope that you will share with us your feedback. Your participation matters.

After all, downtown is most loved for what it represents… community connectedness, marketplace opportunity and public participation.

See You Downtown,

Naomi Weiss Executive Director of the Daytona Beach Partnership 4 www.ThinkDowntownMagazine.com

FREE

CLASS

With this ad.

Good for new students only.

Wm. Ritzi & Co. JeWeleRs

Join Us Downtown for these Holiday Events at Ritzi’s!

November 5th - 30th:

Jewelry remounting and Custom design event November 26th - December 24th:

anniversary Celebration - 129 years in business Hospitality, prizes, speCial offers

The KeepSafe Jewelry 160 South Beach St., Daytona Beach • 386-252-2552 • www.wmritzi.com Portfolio!

Also Available at Ritzi’s - The year’s most unique and useful jewelry gift :

in season now sweet potato balls 4 large sweet potatoes 2/3 cup packed brown sugar 2 tablespoons orange juice 1 teaspoon orange zest 2 cups shredded coconut, sweetened (optional) 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 marshmallow per potato ball Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Bake the potatoes until tender, then peel and mash them.

Stir in brown sugar, orange juice, and orange zest. In a separate bowl, toss the coconut with the sugar and cinnamon. Press mashed potatoes around a marshmallow, creating a 2 to 3-inch diameter ball. Roll the balls in the coconut mixture. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes.

stuffed mushrooms Large button mushrooms, cleaned and stems removed 1 tablespoon olive oil 1/3 cup diced onion 6 ounces crabmeat, drained and rinsed or 6 ounces cooked shrimp, peeled and chopped Roasted garlic one heaping teaspoon mashed 1 pinch salt pepper 2 tablespoons bread crumbs 1 ounce feta cheese softened 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Sensational Holiday Starters It’s the time of year when visitors and houseguests always seem to be arriving!

Make your holiday celebrations extra special with these holiday appetizers, using fresh Farmer’s Market ingredients!

Every Saturday on City Island Downtown Daytona Beach Hours: 8 am to noon Free Parking 6 www.ThinkDowntownMagazine.com

Directions Prep Time: 20 mins Total Time: 40 mins 1. Preheat oven to 350°F 2. Heat oil in skillet over mediumhigh heat. Add onion and garlic.

Saute until onions soften, about 5 minutes. Add feta cheese to soften.

3. Place in a medium bowl; mix in shrimp and or crab meat.

4. Season filling to taste with salt and pepper. Arrange mushrooms, rounded side down, on oiled baking sheet. Generously mound filling in mushrooms.

5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top of each stuffed mushroom.

6. Bake mushrooms until tender about 20 minutes. Serve hot.

SHIPPED LOCAL OR LONG DISTANCE BY THE PIECE, BAG, BOX OR BUSHEL!

PARADE IN THE PARK! Daytona Beach is doing something new and cool this year for our Holiday Parade in Downtown… Parade in the Park.

Faced with the reality of shrinking budgets, we all find it hard to justify expenses related to what might be seen as frivolity when other, more important items are being eliminated from the budget entirely. This very fact is a big reason why the downtown has formed the Holiday Team. Our group of enthusiastic, holiday-loving volunteers is determined to spread hope and cheer for the entire area by making Downtown Daytona Beach the community’s Holiday Central.

Once the new committee formed, we got together with the City and brainstormed. How could we make the Holidays more exciting than ever while saving the community money?

The Parade in the Park is just one of a number of super creative programs that we’re forming.

Most parades are a procession of floats and marching bands. You stand still on the sidewalk, shoulder to shoulder with other people, while the parade walks by you. Parade in the Park is different. Instead of standing on the sidewalk, waiting for the parade to walk by you, we are lining Riverfront Park with the brightly colored floats, bands and dance groups, and inviting you to come and walk through. Starting at Orange Avenue, along the canal side of Riverfront Park, display after display will be set-up for you to walk by and see. You can meet your local dignitaries, catch candy thrown from the floats, get your pictures with Santa, enjoy live music by our local schools and vote on your favorite display of the day. There will also be food and drinks every so many spaces for you to grab a bite as you parade through the park.

The Parade will be Saturday, December 11th from 12 noon to 3 pm.

Parking is free. There are many spaces along Beach Street, and even more on City Island and in the parking lots behind the buildings of Beach Street.

For more information, contact the City of Daytona Beach’s Cultural Services (386) 671-8250.

FREE

5lb. Bag of Citrus or 8oz.

Marmalade or Jelly with $10 Minimum purchase

with this coupon 1 per customer exp. 12/31/10 12/31/09 TD

Citrus Gift Store located at 248 S. Beach Street Daytona Beach 386-252-7462 • Toll Free: 1-877-378-4848 www.indianrivercitrusgifts.com • Mon-Fri 9am-5pm & Sat 10am-2pm

THINK DINING

food for the soul 10 Fall-friendly comfort food dining options that make cheating on your diet worthwhile.

Grilled Cheese & Tomato Basil Soup The ultimate comfort food staple, this simple menu combo is sure to warm your entire body and leave you feeling good.

Angell & Phelps Cafe, 156 S. Beach St., Daytona Beach Meatball Sub Sandwich Hound Dogs might specialize in hot dogs made to your liking all day every day, but they also serve up some other, fantastic dishes. The Meatball with marinara sauce and provolone cheese on a fresh sub roll is a warm and good treat your tummy is sure to love.

Hound Dogs, 168 N. Beach St., Daytona Beach

Southern Pulled BBQ Sandwich Slow roasted, saucy pork on a fresh Kaiser bun with tomato & onions and a super fresh side, this yummy southern favorite is the epitome of comfort food. You are sure to leave feeling happy.

Avocado Kitchen 110 S. Beach St., Daytona Beach Garlic Herb Filet 8oz of hand cut, tender filet mignon served with sauteed zucchini and squash, this delicious dinner plate will stimulate your taste buds and leave you feeling perfectly satisfied.

Ivy Lane Bistro 246 S. Beach St., Daytona Beach

Pad Thai Stir-fried rice noodles, with egg, bean sprouts, green onions and garnished with peanuts and topped with the meat or veggie selection of your choice, this customary Thai dish is sure to make everyone of every background feel great.

Zen Bistro, 112 Bay St., Daytona Beach

Jack’s Seafood Bowl Sauteed shrimp and scallops in a puff pastry bowl, swimming in lobster sherry cream sauce and topped with shredded cheddar cheese. Served with garlic bread.

Caribbean Jack’s 721 Ballough Rd., Daytona Beach

Tamales!

Red with pork or green with chicken, this tasty leaf-wrapped, corn-dough stuffed-with-savory-meat dish will make you feel good. It’s easy to see why this simple dish is a staple in the Mexican tradition of food.

Tia Cori’s Tacos 214 N. Beach St., Daytona Beach

Shepherd Pie Savory seasoned ground beef mixed with corn, peas and carrots topped with mashed potatoes, cheese and gravy.

McK’s Tavern, 218 South Beach St., Daytona Beach

Chicken Marsala A rich sauce of wine and mushrooms over chicken and pasta, this savory dish will make your mouth water. Note: All the pasta and sauce dishes are made on site with a traditional recipe that has been passed down through the owner’s family generations.

Don Vito’s, 137 W. Int’l Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach

8 www.ThinkDowntownMagazine.com

Spinach Pie Served with lettuce, tomato, onions, peppers & olives and their “own made” dressing with feta cheese Stavros Pizza House, 262 S Beach St., Daytona Beach

Local Adventures from Blogger, Mother, Wife, and Museum of Arts & Sciences Marketing Director, Christina Lane

W

ith the perfect Florida fall weather blessing us with a humidity-free sunshiney day, I was looking for an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, without necessarily doing anything “outdoorsy.” This led me to the Downtown Daytona Beach French Market, a gathering of outdoor booths spread along Beach Street with artisans selling pottery, jewelry, crafts, and baked goods. The popular event is currently held bi-weekly and many of the downtown merchants hold special sales and have outdoor displays during French Market Saturdays. We had fun sampling French baked goods and checking out some of the antique stores along Beach Street that we hadn’t visited in a while. Beach Street is one of the few places locally where you can still find some steals and affordably priced treasures in the antique and resale stores.

nest bliss

A beautiful fall day spent exploring the new Downtown French Market.

After shopping we headed over to Ivy Lane Bistro which to our surprise had been recently renovated and had added a beautiful wine bar behind the main dining area. Luckily for us though the breakfast and lunch menu-which are served together all day-still offer the fun, family-friendly food we were looking for on our Saturday out. We ordered Nutella Crepes, Frosted Flake Crusted French Toast and a banana pancake for our two-year-old. However, once my daughter figured out that my crepes were full of creamy hazelnut chocolate, she ended up eating most of them herself!

Before we headed home we dropped by She Sells Yarn which always reminds me of the holidays. They have beautiful yarn and nothing says Christmas like hand-knitted scarves, stockings and blankets.

Read more at www.nestbliss.com THINK MAGAZINE WINTER 2010 9

THINK HOLIDAY GUIDE

Downtown Gift Guide for the Difficult...

Your child’s ballet teacher, that nephew who has EVERYTHING, your infamous Great Aunt Millie who has no idea what an iPhone is or why in the world you would need one....what do they have in common? They are all guilty of being difficult to buy for, and you dread shopping for them every year!

Downtown Daytona Beach provides the perfect “idea bin” for these gift list offenders. The Think street team did some window shopping to see what we could come up with to help make shopping for these guys a little less challenging.

10 www.ThinkDowntownMagazine.com

THINK HOLIDAY GUIDE

THE TECHNOPHOBE

Cell phone, computer, mp3 player? What for? She’s got all of her original records and that record player still works. She still mails actual letters (because it’s more “personal”), and she can only talk to you from the kitchen or bedroom, because that’s where the phones are. Every year for the past decade, you have gotten her some kind of a photo gift, because that’s really all you could come up with.

These incredibly cool specialty yarns are an unexpected and thoughtful idea for knitters. Or, sign her up for a crochet class to gift her with a new hobby!

(She Sells Yarn)

Help her keep her valuable jewelry safe with this one-of-a-kind Jewelry Portfolio.

(Wm. Ritzi & Co. Jewelers)

Fresh Florida citrus makes a sweet gift, especially when grouped with delicious marmalades and candies.

(Davidson Brothers)

We thought these lighted floral branches screamed holiday magic.

What a perfect way to add light to somebody’s life all year round? And, no, you don’t need to program them or anything. Phew!

(Stacey Lipton Interiors)

THINK HOLIDAY GUIDE

THE OVERINDULGED ONE

This kid has everything, and you don’t want to buy him another sweater or more music buying credits. You don’t want to break the bank, but you’d like him to know you love him.

What better than a Christmas Story inspired lamp to give him a giggle? You certainly won’t find this at the mall!

(Daytona Magic Shop)

These rad skater kicks would make any cool kid’s day.

(Dirt City Skates)

12 www.ThinkDowntownMagazine.com

Okay, so he has a Wii and an XBox, but he really wants that Playstation 3. Buy one gently used. He won’t care or know the difference.

(Jessup’s)

For sports fans, we found this signed Gators helmet and variety of other collectible sport memorabilia.

(Gary T’s Sports and Collectibles)

THINK HOLIDAY GUIDE

THE HELPERS

We all love to show our appreciation to teachers, hairdressers, clients and friends who touch our lives in some positive way throughout the year. But it is always so hard to come up with a gift that is not just the standard gift certificate or smelly candle.

Help your child’s teacher start his or her day with gourmet coffees, French press, coffee flavors, or cake in a cup!

(Sweet Marlays’ Coffee House)

Have a hairdresser that you and all of your friends go to? Why not go on together on a more extravagant gift like these Majorca pearl necklaces?

(Tom Cook Jeweler)

Show a lucrative client just how much you appreciate them with a certificate for a relaxing massage or other spa treat.

(Salon 230 & Spa Above)

For the bestie that always talks about needing something new in her life... yoga lessons!

She’s helped your mind and spirit throughout the year. Now you can help hers!

(Renew Yoga)

think calendar recurring events

november 2010

Every Thursday through Saturday at Angell & Phelps Café: Live music and great dinner specials. For more information – www.angellandphelpscafe.com or call 386.257.2677

All month - Jewelry Remounting and Custom Design Event at Wm. Ritzi & Co. Jewelers. 160 S. Beach Street, Daytona Beach.

386.252.2552.

Every Thursday through Saturday at Ivy Lane Bistro: Live music and special bistro dinner menu. For more information – www.ivylanebistro.com or call 386.258.7112 Weekday Spruce-Up Special.

20% off cuts, colors, or facials on weekdays only when you mention Think Magazine. 386.253.8737. www.salon230.com.

Every Saturday – Downtown Farmers Market on City Island.

From 8 am to 12 noon. For more information – email: Cheryl@downtowndaytonabeach.com or call 386.523.3674

Every Saturday in November: Crochet Holiday Stocking-a-Long. $20 (covers all yarn). Knit your own stocking. 226A S. Beach Street, Daytona Beach. 386.265.5648.

6 & 7 – The 48th Annual Halifax Art Festival. Downtown Daytona Beach Riverfront Park and Beach Street. Features the work of more than 230 artists from around the country. Live entertainment, food vendors, and more. More info at www.halifaxartfestival.com

Now through December 31 - “Got Feathers?” Exhibit. At Museum of Arts & Sciences. www.moas.org.

7 – Palmer College Paint the Towne 5K. Jackie Robinson Ballpark, City Island and Historic Old Daytona. Toddler Trot, Kids Dash & Kids K. 5K & Mile Entry fees include beautiful, colorful long sleeve T-shirts, spectacular awards, live music, scrumptious food and a breathtaking views. More info at www.daytonabeachcombers.com

Now through December 31 - The Armory!

Exhibit. At Musuem of Arts & Sciences. www.moas.org.

10 – 14 The News-Journal Center Presents: Dearly Departed. Call 386.226.1488 or visit www.news-journalcenter.com

Now through November 14 - Spruce Creek and the St. Johns River Silverprint Photography of Lee Dunkel. At Museum of Arts & Sciences. www.moas.org

11-14 - 34th Annual Greek Festival. St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church 129 N. Halifax Dr., Daytona Beach. Enjoy traditional, live Greek music, dancing, Greek beer, wine ouzo and sample incredible selections of Greek cuisine! (386) 252-6012.

Now through November 28 - The Weird and Wonderful Unique Decorative Arts from the Lightner Museum, St. Augustine. At Museum of Arts & Sciences. www.moas.org Now through January 9 - Woof! Art of the Dog. At Museum of Arts & Sciences. www.moas.org.

Tuesdays through Saturday Now through December 10 - Sightseeing Luncheon Cruises. 11:30am to 2pm aboard the StarLite Princess at Loggerhead Club & Marina. Info at www.starlitecruises.com.

14 www.ThinkDowntownMagazine.com

12 – 14 Daytona Beach Film Festival. A judged festival of shorts and features at Cinematique in Downtown Daytona Beach. www.dbff.org 13 – The Daytona Cubs Annual Chili Cookoff at Jackie Robinson Stadium. 12 p.m.- 5 p.m., with proceeds going to benefit the Halifax Humane Society. www.daytonacubs.com or 386-257-3172.

19 – 30 The 4th Annual Festival of Trees.

6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Museum Of Arts and Sciences, 352 S. Nova Road, Daytona Beach. Be entertained, wined and dined by local businesses and be the first to bid on the beautifully decorated trees.

Enjoy the art and permanent collections the Museum has to offer. RSVP by November 10th. As part of the Festival of Trees, Santa and Mrs. Claus will visit the Museum on December 4th from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Children are invited to sit on Santa’s lap and have their picture taken.

(386) 255-0285. www.moas.org 20 – French Market. 9am to 4pm in Downtown Daytona Beach. Vendors, music, food, and dance. Call 386.290.1365 or 386.255.3701 for more info.

20 - Elton John. Live at the Ocean Center.

8pm. www.ticketmaster.com 26 - 28. Daytona Turkey Run. Daytona International Speedway, 1801 International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach. The Southeast’s largest car show and swap meet takes place Thanksgiving weekend in the expansive infield of Daytona International Speedway. (386)255-7355, or (386) 767-9070. www.turkeyrun.com.

26 through December 24 - 129 Year Anniversary Celebration at Wm. Ritzi & Co. Jewelers. Prizes, special offers and more.

160 S. Beach Street, Daytona Beach.

386.252.2552.

december 2010.

1-5 - The 4th Annual Festival of Trees Gala. 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Museum Of Arts and Sciences, 352 S. Nova Road, Daytona Beach. Be entertained, wined and dined by local businesses and be the first to bid on the beautifully decorated trees.

Enjoy the art and permanent collections the Museum has to offer. RSVP by November 10th. As part of the Festival of Trees, Santa and Mrs. Claus will visit the Museum on December 4th from 11 a.m.

think calendar until 3 p.m. Children are invited to sit on Santa’s lap and have their picture taken.

(386) 255-0285. www.moas.org 4 – French Market. 9am to 4pm in Downtown Daytona Beach. Vendors, music, food, and dance. Call 386.290.1365 or 386.255.3701 for more info.

4 - Halifax Historical Museum Annual Gala.

252 S. Beach Street. 386.255.6976 4 - Daytona Beach Christmas Boat Parade. On the Halifax River starting at the Seabreeze Bridge. Boaters interested in decorating their boat and participating, visit www.hryc.com or pick up an application at the Halifax River Yacht Club, 331 S. Beach Street, Daytona Beach. Great parade views from Seabreeze, Main Street, and Memorial Bridges.

www.PeabodyAuditorium.org

january 2011

11 - Parade in the Park. 12 to 3pm in Riverfront Park.

8 - Cirque D’Or. Peabody Auditorium. www.PeabodyAuditorium.org

19- A Christmas Carol. Peabody Auditorium. www.PeabodyAuditorium.org

23 – Michael Bolton: One World One Love 2011 Tour. PeabodyAuditorium. www.PeabodyAuditorium.org

31 - “Noon” Year’s Eve at Daytona Lagoon.

A New Year’s Eve Party for kids! 10am to 4pm. www.daytonalagoon.com or 386.254.5020.

29 - Capitol Steps. Peabody Auditorium. www.PeabodyAuditorium.org

5 - 12th Annual Downtown Opry Christmas Show. 3pm. Plaza Ocean Club. More info at 386.307.0922.

8 - Fiddler on the Roof (Broadway Series).

Peabody Auditorium. www.PeabodyAuditorium.org 10 - An Evening with Judy Collins Holidays & Hits. Peabody Auditorium.

french market fun!

THINK DOWNTOWN MAGAZINE WINTER 10 15

give a little love

The spirit of giving is a central theme during the holidays. Consider a gift OF cash or supplies for these Downtown non-profits and charities. The smallest gift, given by many, makes a world of difference.

Daytona Beach Partnership A Main Street Organization with the mission to promote and enhance the continued economic development of downtown Daytona Beach while protecting its historic heritage.

Location: 126 E. Orange Ave. Contact: (386) 523-3674 Need: Office supplies such as printer ink cartridges, paper, dividers, folders and pens. Photography services. Bottled water and sodas. Volunteers for events.

Christmas decorations.

Cash donations are greatly appreciated.

Council on Aging Serves seniors of Volusia County by helping them to deal with changes since 1967.

Location: 160 N. Beach St., Contact: (888) 252-6110 extension 212 Need: Wheelchairs.

Assistance devices.

Supplies. Cash donations are appreciated.

Downtown Farmers Market To support and strengthen urban-rural community bonds and local agricultural endeavors by maintaining a downtown green market that connects consumers directly to locally-produced, high quality, fresh produce and other goods and services.

Location: City Island, every Saturday, 8am – 12pm Contact: (386) 523-3674 Need: Reusable grocery bags, sign services for vendors, plastic tables and chairs, banner services.

The Art League of Daytona Beach Volusia County’s oldest art organization.

Location: 433 S. Palmetto Ave. Contact: (386) 258-3856 Need: Art supplies such as paints, brushes, palettes, easels, canvases and drop clothes. Cash donations are greatly appreciated.

Halifax Historical Museum To gather, preserve, educate and present the history of the Halifax River area to the public.

Location: 252 S. Beach St. Contact: (386) 255-6976 Need: Items for the gift shop - collectibles from your home, china, jewelry, books, records and more.

Cash donations are greatly appreciated. Also, the Museum collects Toys for Tots and non-perishable food items for the season.

Palmetto House Facilitates the movement of homeless families and individuals into permanent housing.

Location: 336 S. Palmetto Ave. Contact: (386) 253-4895 Need: Toiletries such as shavers, toothbrushes, toothpaste, feminine hygiene, bars of soap, shampoo. Sheets for twin and full beds. Towels.

Men’s white t-shirts and socks. Twin mattresses.

Cash donations are greatly appreciated.

THINK MAGAZINE WINTER 17

THINK HOLIDAY GUIDE

how to host a cookie-decorating party A fun excuse to get together with friends during the busy holiday season.

Utilize pre-made cookies.

Keep the wine or cocktails flowing.

Make your icing from scratch.

Layout clippings of pretty, holiday images along with sketch pads and pencils. Some people really need a few moments of practice to get into the creative spirit.

The actual cookie making part can be quite time consuming. Partygoers might lose steam by the time you’re ready to decorate. Bake your cookies the day before the party. Or, to lessen the pressure on yourself, ask your guests to all bring a couple tins of their favorite, basic cookies. Sugar, chocolate or peanut butter cookies often work best.

Most icing recipes are super simple and can be made freshly in about 10 minutes. Go with a basic white, separate into multiple bowls and add food coloring for a wide range of bright colors.

Play holiday music.

Music sets the mood. There are a number of great holiday compilations that include classic artists like Billie Holiday and Tony Bennett. For some great, local oldies you can also tune your house radio in to WROD 1340.

Have some snacks on hand.

With all those cookies right in front of you, the temptation can be too great. Make sure you have some delicious salty sweet snacks on hand so that your cookies are able to survive the party. Stuffed mushrooms, spinach & artichoke dip and meatballs are a few of my favorites.

22 www.ThinkDowntownMagazine.com 18

Even if you prefer to go dry, your guests will appreciate the ice-breaking option. Just know that the decorating might get especially creative as guests have more than one glass.

Be inspirational.

Give Holiday Plate Favors.

This time of year, you can generally find a fun array of inexpensive holiday plates and festive platters. What a lovely way to thank your guests for coming: provide them with a convenient and thoughtful way to take some cookies home.

Leave a Few Aside to Share.

Shelters that serve families with small children would be overjoyed to receive such a lovely offering. Consider putting together a platter to deliver to a local homeless shelter that caters to families.

THINK HOLIDAY GUIDE

Halifax Art Festival.

Celebrating its 48th Annual Festival, this event is a must attend. Featuring fine works of more than 230 artists, this event is a perfect excuse to check out Beach Street.

Critical Mass Bike Ride.

On the last Friday of every month, a group meets at the City Island Library to take a bike ride around town. All ages, shapes and sizes are welcome. The average cycling speed does not exceed 10 miles an hour, and even then, the group stops to wait if people fall to the end.

Cinematique Film Festival.

at the News-Journal Center and in their new downtown location at 242 S. Beach Street.

November 12th, 13th and 14th. For more information (386) 252-3778.

Lunch in Riverfront Park.

We live in Florida for a reason. One day get your lunch as takeout instead of dine-in.

Walk over to Riverfront Park. Find a nice place to sit down and relax, maybe up against a tree, maybe in the gazebo located just South of the Veteran’s Memorial Plaza. You will be glad you did.

French Market.

This open-air, sidewalk market boasts local artisans, bakers, candlestick makers and much more. Every other Saturday through the season, get downtown to Beach Street and check out the French Market.

Palmer 5K Paint the Town.

The largest annual fundraiser for the Daytona beachcombers, this 5K run is a hit for the whole family. Walk / run your way into a healthy holiday season on the first Sunday of November. If you missed the run, you can still enjoy a nice, morning run along Riverfront Park any day of the week.

Parade in the Park.

This year’s Downtown Holiday Parade will be a static staging of floats and interactive displays along Riverfront Park from Orange Avenue to Bay Street. December 11th from 12 noon to 3 pm. It’s your chance to meet and have your pictures with Santa!

Halifax Historical Museum’s Annual Gala.

Located in the Historic Merchant’s Bank on Beach Street, the Halifax Historical Society’s Annual Gala is the party of the year. Support the preservation of our local history while having an elegant, good time. For more information (386) 255-6976

Sunrise bridge walk.

If you live downtown, then you can walk right out your door and head for a walk through Riverfront Park, up to International Speedway, and then up to the top of the bridge. Otherwise, you can always park on City Island and make the walk. The view of the river and the ocean from the top of the bridge is perfectly stunning. You will be thankful that you live here.

Daytona Beach Christmas Boat Parade

On December 4, a parade of boats will take the water in a holiday spectacle like no other. The parade upon the Halifax begins at the Seabreeze Bridge. Find great parade views from the Seabreeze, Main Street, and Memorial Bridges. Boaters interested in decorating their boat and participating, visit www.hryc.com or pick up an application at the Halifax River Yacht Club, 331 S. Beach Street, Daytona Beach. .

10 downtown must do’s this holiday season Visit www.DowntownHolidayCentral.com all things holiday!

THINKfor MAGAZINE SUMMER/FALL 2010 23

MIND, BODY & SPIRIT

relatives

parties cards

work

shopping

calories

menus

budgets

unwind

holiday stress busters to help you

While famous for hot cocoa and smooches under the mistletoe, the Holidays are also notorious for causing a great

deal of stress. And stress is no good for anyone’s body. It can weaken the immune system, increase levels of anxiety, and ultimately contribute to those infamous Holiday Blues. Here are some excellent ideas on how to take care of your mind and body by reducing stress.

Make a list and check it twice. Plan ahead for everything. Make that famous gift list and start shopping now. You can also make a list for the family get-togethers you have planned and for the events around town you would like to attend. Include recipes for dishes you plan to cook and shopping lists to go along with those. Plan your outfits in order to avoid last minute stressful decisions.

Delegate. We all know that famous line…

“if you want something done right, then do it yourself.” Well, you‘re going to have to let that notion go. There is simply too much to be done at this time of year to think you can magically get it all done on your own. If you have little ones at home, or big ones who are home on break, then get them involved in the fun.

Get plenty of sleep. Sleep matters! When we sleep, our cells regenerate and our bodies circulate nutrients. Lack of sleep causes irritability and an inability to concentrate.

Your body and mind need the rejuvenation of sleep to let go of stress and restore for each new day.

Set a budget. Knowing your limits is an

important way of combating the stresses of the Holidays. Know what you can and cannot afford to do both with your money and with your time. Set up your budget and follow it as you go.

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Sweat is sweet. Exercise is one of

the best ways to combat stress, not to mention the staving off of those holiday pounds. Give yourself the gift of a workout routine. A morning walk or an afternoon jog can make a world of difference. I like to stick to my neighborhood, but for a special treat every now and then I drive over and take my walk on the beach.

Make personal time. Even the most

extroverted of any of us needs some me time. Make a point of closing yourself off from the rest of the world at least a couple times a week during the Holidays. In fact, most experts recommend doing this at least once a day. You can sit on your favorite bench near the marina, stretch your arms in a yoga routine at the park or relax in a comfy chair with a book. The time will refresh you.

Enjoy the ride. There is really no

single epic moment during the Holidays, rather a series of traditional and sometimes not so traditional moments.

Focus on the journey through your days, spending time with family and friends, breathing in the cool air and making special moments for those around you.

Let go of the pressure to perform.

PEOPLE & PLACES

Meet Quanita, owner of Quanita’s Social Dancing

How long have you had a business in Downtown Daytona Beach?

Since February 2007. We are preparing for a big 5 year anniversary in February 2011.

What do you like about working downtown?

The location is great. Magnolia Avenue is a pretty street with an upscale environment. It’s great to have local restaurants within walking distance.

How did you get into dancing?

I started with ballet when I was 5 years old. From there, I got into folk dancing, ballroom, and latin. I was a junior competitor until I was 18.

What do you love most about dancing?

Dancing is joyful. I love the people, and being able to teach them how to develop their talent.

You can’t help but be happy and smile when you move to music.

What is your advice to people who have never taken lessons, but would like to try?

Show up to my studio on Monday, Tuesday or Thursday at 7 pm or Sunday at 3 pm. For $5 and 30 minutes, you can see if dancing moves you. Check it off your bucket list, and you may surprise yourself.

Tell us something people may not know about you.

I have a vision of 1,000 people all dancing at one time to zumba with giant screens so they can see from every angle. 1,000 people joyfully exhilarated at one time. All of us sharing on moment in time.

Cinematique Makes Downtown Debut

I

n 1941, a group of individuals, including Charlie Chaplin, Walt Disney and Orson Welles, founded the Society of Independent Motion Picture Producers with the mission to preserve the rights of independent producers.

This group of individuals believed that if the industry became entirely dominated by the larger, corporate studios, then the art of film would suffer. The label “independent film” is commonly assumed to signify avant-garde, artsy or strange, when, in reality the term simply signifies budgetary limitations from large studios. An independent film cannot have more than half of its financing from a major studio. Because the budgets are smaller, the release is smaller. All of this does frequently allow independent films to lean towards a scene that is not main stream, but it doesn’t mean that they have to.

Due to the limited release nature of independent films and the budgetary constraints to advertising such films, having an independent cinema in a smaller community is a very rare treasure that requires much community support. How fortunate we are to have such a rare treasure here in Daytona Beach. Cinematique, as an organization has been in existence for a number of years, but they’ve not had their own home. The establishment of a permanent location in Downtown Daytona Beach is a big step for them as an organization, and for our Downtown Community.

The cinema is a retail conversion at 242 S. Beach Street, located immediately next door to Ivy Lane Bistro. Once open in November, they will be showing 4 movies a day, 6 days a week. Once a month they plan to highlight a cultural feature, and once a month they plan to highlight an opera on film. Unlike any other theatre in the area, patrons of the movies will be able to order delivery service from the restaurant next door, and eat while enjoying their film. Beer and wine will also be served at the cinema.

I had a few minutes to meet with Stephanie Mason-Teague, the President of Cinematique, and ask her some questions about the new cinema and how she got so interested in such a cool project. Here is our interview: Question: Why Downtown?

Stephanie: We have had our eye on Downtown for a number of years. The energy of Downtown is the perfect environment for our organization.

Question: How did you get involved with Cinematique?

Stephanie: In 2005 we almost had to close the organization. I couldn’t help but jump in and talk about why I thought it was important that we did not. Over the course of that meeting I was nominated and voted President. We’ve been working hard to grow it ever since.

Question: What are some of your favorite movies?

Stephanie: Moulin Rouge, Vanity Fair, Amelie, The Usual Suspects Question: What is the #1 way someone can support the new cinema?

Stephanie: Become a member, come to the movies, and tell a friend.

Question: Can people request movies?

Stephanie: Absolutely! There is a form on our website. We encourage requests.

Cinematique’s big, annual event is their Film Festival. This year’s festival is November 12th, 13th and 14th and will be in their new location (242 S. Beach Street) and at the News-Journal Center. Visit their site for more information on the festival, feature films and how to become a member. www.cinematique.org See you at the movies!

THINK MAGAZINE WINTER 2010 21

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