DECEMBER 2018 • FREE
www.wilmingtonparent.com
Our 20th Year of Serving New Hanover, Brunswick & Pender County Families!
COVER KIDS: HAMPTON AND KEEGAN
CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS SANTA SIGHTINGS I HOLIDAY LIGHTS I EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT TOP 5 GIFT FLOPS I SHOPPING GUIDE
Specializing in dentistry for infants, children, adolescents and children with special needs.
New Location 109 Mendenhall Drive Suite A Wilmington, NC 28411 910.686.1869 306 Dolphin Drive Suite 2 Jacksonville, NC 910.333.0343
growinggrins.com
Save the Date! First Citizens presents...
2018
Nov. 19-Dec. 30, 2018 North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
Sponsor a Tree! We are continuing a long-time, well-recognized holiday tradition at
Surrounded by the unique aquatic life of our coastal community, your sponsored tree will be set against the backdrop of the tranquil environment of the Aquarium’s upper and lower mezzanines, and select areas inside the conservatory! Benefiting For tree sponsorship information, contact Mary Fountain at 910-796-7974 or Mary.Fountain@lcfh.org
Merry Christmas from our family to yours!
Julie B. Dimock DDS, MS Adam W. Weinberg DDS William R. Cherry III DDS, MS LELAND 1003 Olde Waterford Way, Suite 1A Leland, NC WILMINGTON 3505 Converse Drive, Suite 175 Wilmington, NC
Accepting New Patients from Infants to Adolescents www.wilmingtonparent.com
Wilmington Parent | December 2018 | 1
Candace Roberts
DECEMBER 2018 Publisher/Editor in Chief Keith Jaworski 910-518-0011 seasidemedia1@gmail.com
Features Editor Danielle Villegas
danielle.wilmingtonparent@gmail.com
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calendar@wilmingtonparent.com
Design/Layout Department: Yulia Zarubina - Brill ads@wilmingtonparent.com
Customer Service 910-518-0011
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January Photo Theme: Winter Fun!
Email your pictures to seasidemedia1@gmail.com by December 12th
CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS! 14 17 18 20 22
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS
Andrea Knight 910-632-0283
andreailmparent@gmail.com
Nancy Lievre 910-240-3461
nancywilmparent@gmail.com
TOP 5 GIFT FLOPS HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE STAFF FAVORITES NEW PRODUCTS - HOLIDAY EDITION
Public Service Announcements/Calendar Please submit items/photos before the 2nd Friday of the prior month
or E-Mail: calendar@wilmingtonparent.com Opinions/Suggestions/Feedback We value our readers opinions — help us to serve you better! Our mailing address is: Wilmington Parent
PO Box 1336, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 or E-Mail: seasidemedia1@gmail.com
DEPARTMENTS 3
EDITOR’S NOTE
24
FAMILY TRAVEL
4
LOCAL NEWS
27
MIND AND BODY
6
THINGS TO DO
28
SCHOOL NOTES
9
CHILDCARE LISTINGS
29
BIRTHDAY PHOTOS
cover credits Photography by Tennille Gore, www.tennillegorephotography.com • 910-398-7425 2 | November December 2018 | Wilmington Parent
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Wilmington Parent is published 12 times a year. Distribution of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. The publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the publication's standards. All contents of Wilmington Parent are protected under copyright. Reproduction of any content requires permission of the publisher. All rights reserved. Wilmington Parent • PO Box 1336, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 © Wilmington Parent 2018 Seaside Media, LLC Complimentary copies of Wilmington Parent are available to the public at various locations in the greater Wilmington area. One copy per family is permitted. Additional copies require the written permission of the Publisher. PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE
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EDITOR’S NOTE
T
he new year hasn’t even started, but fresh, exciting changes have already begun! Wilmington Parent magazine has treated itself to a full makeover. A new section full of Things to Do that is easier to find exactly what you are looking for can be found where you would normally see our calendar. Local News and information about what is happening in the Cape Fear Region is available from cover to cover. Also, don’t miss the personal favorites, recommendations, and recipes for the holidays from your hard working staff here at Wilmington Parent! We are so excited about the new direction of the magazine, and we hope you love it! I hope everyone is finding hope and recovery this holiday season. After Hurricane Flo took so much, yet reminded us how much we have to be thankful for in this community, I wish nothing but refreshing memories and peaceful moments for the upcoming holidays. Next month, we will start a new year, with new challenges that we now know our community will face together. We have an amazing group of citizens in this area and I am proud and grateful to call this home. Come back next month for more changes and our highly anticipated Education Issue with expanded local tips and guidance for finding the best educational opportunities for your whole family. Peace, Love, and Happy Holidays!
Danielle
Thank you for choosing us to be your Family Favorite Pediatric Dentist again this year! 2606 Iron Gate Dr. Suite 200,Wilmington, NC
791-7380 • www.catchasmile.net Turn ordinary into EXTRAORDINARY ! Pax Natura Academy is not your typical preschool! We specialize in school readiness with a focus on developing the whole child. Our programs are designed to highlight nature, community and diversity.
4202 Wilshire Blvd. Wilmington, NC • 910-791-2080
Looking for Quality, Affordable Child Care?
We have many convenient locations in the following areas: Wilmington, NC Leland, NC & Southport, NC
910-557-2471
Our Schools Provide: Care for ages 6 weeks - 12 years • Structured Curriculum for all Ages • Young Achievers Afterschool • Transportation to and from School • Nutritious Meals and Snacks www.wilmingtonparent.com
Wilmington Parent | December 2018 | 3
LOCAL NEWS
Foster Parents Needed The Arc of North Carolina’s Foster Care program provides children with a nurturing family setting in which to grow and hopefully achieve successful family reunification. Its therapeutic foster care program involves a child that has a higher level of care need, due to psychiatric, medical, and behavioral needs. Therapeutic foster parents require more training than family foster care and are required to have ongoing trainings related to therapeutic foster care to maintain their skills and demonstrate best practice. If interested, please contact Melissa Lawson at (910) 465-8123.
Earth Fare Opens Earth Fare on Military Cutoff, across from Mayfaire opened its doors in November. There are a few things about this store that stand out as different from other health food stores in the area. First, not everything in Earth Fare is organic, but there is a list of standards all products must meet before they are carried in the store. Earth Fare has a “boot list” of chemicals. All products sold are promised to be free of artificial sweeteners, artificial preservatives, artificial colors, artificial flavors, have no bleached four or bromated flour, no artificial fats or trans fats, no synthetic growth hormones and no high fructose corn syrup. If you spot a “booted” ingredient on a product in the store, you get a $50 gift card. All foods with “organic” labels also follow a certain set of standards, including the percentages of organic ingredients within an organic product. Among the meats and seafood, customers can expect all livestock was treated humanely and all meats labeled “antibiotic free” follow of a “never ever” rule. The ‘never ever’ guarantee means antibiotics were never introduced to the animal at any point during their life.
Teen Art Contest The New Hanover County Public Library wants to showcase one talented teen’s art for the next Cape Fear Fandom Faire! The contest is open to anyone between the ages of 13 and 18 who is a resident of NHC, or who goes to school in NHC. Artwork from any fandom will be considered. Submit your work by 5 p.m. on Friday, December 7, 2018. Call or email Shannon Vaughn for an entry form: 910-798-6379 svaughn@nhcgov.com
Second, They are really big on bulk foods. Walk right in the store and find several sections of bulk foods. Grab a paper bag (or bring a container from home to reduce waste) and fill up on beans, seeds, grains, rices and dozens of other items which take up an entire wall. Earth Fare also offers bulk liquids like apple cider vinegar, olive oil, blue agave nectar and several others. Grind up nut butters yourself and buy loose leaf teas and spices, as well. Only need two tablespoons of a foreign spice for a recipe? Earth Fare allows customers to buy however much is necessary. Another thing, They use clean water. Not only is produce vetted to be “clean” from harmful pesticides and chemicals, but it is protected in-store as well. The misters for produce use water from a reverse osmosis system so that no harmful chemicals are in play. The same standards go for the water used in the prepared foods sections. So salads and foods made with water in-store are made from clean, filtered water.
General Dentistry for Youth
604 Junction Creek Dr. Wilmington, NC 28412 910-793-2520
www.browningorthodontics.com
910-319-7209
wilmingtonrockgym.com 4 | December 2018 | Wilmington Parent
Thank you for voting us a Family Favorite!
New Patients Welcome
(910) 790-3836
2520 N. College Road Most Insurance Accepted Including Medicaid, Health Choice, TRICARE
!
Birthday Parties, Kids Programs, Intro to Climbing, Boy/Girl Scouts and other groups welcome
HABLAMOS ESPAÑOL! Rafael Rivera, Jr., DDS, PLLC - Owner
Like Us
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GO THE EXTRA MILE for your children
Be Good All Year. Do Gymnastics! Join Anytime! Register Online!
27417 Andrew Jackson Hwy E, Delco, NC 28436
www.sandpiperpediatrics.com 910-207-0777
Dr. Raaj Amin
910-796-1896 www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com
3529 Carolina Beach Road
Don’t know where to turn? He gets his music online. His t-shirts at the mall. And his drugs from his uncle’s medicine cabinet. 67% of people who abuse prescription drugs get them from family or friends. Prevent your children, friends and relatives from abusing your own medication by securing your meds in places they cannot access.
BE AWARE. DON’T SHARE.®
LOCK YOUR MEDS.® www.lockyourmeds.org/nc TM
Supported by the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services, with funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Opioid STR/Cures (Grant#1H79TI080257) and SPF-RX (Grant # 1U79SP022087).
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We Can Help! • Individual and Family Counseling • Couples and Marriage Counseling • SYMBIS Certified Premarital Counseling • Parenting Programs • Group Classes • Anger Management • Biofeedback • DWI/Substance Abuse Services
Bridge Builders Counseling Center 311 Judges Road, Suite 1E, Wilmington, NC 28405
910-792-9888 www.bridgebuilderscounseling.com
Wilmington Parent | December 2018 | 5
THINGS TO DO • PLAN YOUR MONTH WITH US
DECEMBER | 2018
LOCAL STORYTIMES Storytime & Activities Featuring: How to Catch a Snowman Barnes and Noble 910-509-1880 Dec. 1 11am. Our heroes’ entry for the snowman contest has magically come to life. Will the snowman teach our heroes a lesson they’ll never forget? Who snows! Join us for Storytime and get a coupon from our Café for a grilled cheese sandwich with milk or juice for $4! Railroad Storytime Wilmington Railroad Museum 910-763-2634 1st and 3rd Mondays. 10:30am. Come support the rebuilding of this timeless museum and hear stories and enjoy creative activities in the Children’s Hall. $5/Family. Free/Members. Storytime at Pleasure Island Library 910-798-6303 Mondays & Tuesdays. 10:30am, Join our fun and educational storytime for all preschool ages (babies to 5 years of age). We’ll enjoy books, music, manipulatives, and other pre-literacy activities. No registration or fees required. Storytime at the Main Library 910-798-6303 Tuesdays. 9:30am; 10am; 10:30. Babies up to 18 months at 9:30 are invited to bring an adult lap and enjoy up to 20 minutes of books, songs, fingerplays & rhymes. Toddlers 18 months to 3 years old are invited at 10am to 20 minutes of books,
6 | December 2018 | Wilmington Parent
music, and pre-literacy activities in Story Place. Preschoolers aged 3 to 5 are invited at 10:30am to 20-30 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in our storytime room. Storytime at the Myrtle Grove & Northeast Libraries 910-798-6303 Wednesdays & Thursdays. 9:30am; 10am; 10:30, Myrtle Grove & Northeast Libraries. Babies up to 18 months at 9:30 are invited to bring an adult lap and enjoy up to 20 minutes of books, songs, fingerplays & rhymes. Toddlers 18 months to 3 years old are invited at 10am to 20 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in Story Place. Preschoolers aged 3 to 5 are invited at 10:30am to 20-30 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in our storytime room.
NHC RESIDENT FREE DAYS Family Fun Day Airlie Gardens 910-798-7700 www.airliegardens.org Dec. 2 9am - 5pm. Visit the parks and Arboretum for a full day of family fun. Family Fun Day Cape Fear Museum 910-798-4350 www.capefearmuseum.com Dec. 2 1 – 5pm. NHC residents are admitted free.
FUN STUFF FOR LITTLE KIDS Ride the Sunshine Train Wilmington Railroad Museum www.wrrm.org December 1 11am.. A chance for kids to hop aboard a replica train. Ages 4 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Admission $2. Messy Hands Toddler Art Main Library www.nhclibrary.org Dec. 6 & 20 10am. This program is designed for toddlers, 2’ and 3’s. The focus of this program is child driven art exploration. Registration is required, play clothes are recommended. Jump Right In Main Library www.nhclibrary.org Dec. 8 & 14 11am & 10am. This program is for children ages 5-8 years old and their caregivers. Join us in Story Place to experience music through singing, listening, moving, and imagining. This program is presented by the Brooklyn Arts Music Academy. Registration is required. Hands on Math and Science Cape Fear Museum Dec. 13 10am.. Play, learn, and explore with your child. Math and science concepts will be introduced through an interactive story time, hands on science experiments, and exploration stations. Ages 3-6 and registration required at www.nhclibrary.org. www.wilmingtonparent.com
Lunch for a Bear Halyburton Park 910-341-0075 Dec. 13, 14 & 15 10am. Bring your “Little Explorers” out to the park and discover nature through stories, songs, hands-on activities, hikes, and crafts. Children must be accompanied by adults. Adults attend at no cost. Children ages 2-5, $3. Please dress for the weather (including closed-toe shoes) to be ready for outdoor fun! Registration is required. Planetarium Adventures: One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure Cape Fear Museum www.capefearmuseum.com Dec. 29 11am. From China to America, Sesame Street’s Big Bird, Elmo and their friend from China, Hu Hu Zhu, explore the night sky! (27 min.)
FUN STUFF FOR BIG KIDS Engineering Challenge Cape Fear Museum www.capefearmuseum.com Dec. 1 2pm. Think like an engineer! Design, build and test a prototype of your creation. Drop in anytime from 2 to 3 PM to put your skills to the test. Perfect for kids age 5 and up and their adult helper. Art Cart: Binary Ornaments & Snowflakes Pleasure Island Library www.nhclibrary.org Dec. 5 & 19 3:30pm. Let your creativity flow in our creation station. We’ll have a cart set out in the children’s area full of materials for you to engage in a self-paced craft or activity. Kids ages 5-12. No registration required. Planetarium Adventures: Fragile Planet, Earth’s Place in the Universe Cape Fear Museum www.capefearmuseum.com Dec 22 2pm. Travel 120 million light-years to rediscover home! “Fragile Planet” combines scientific visualization with movie-making magic, highlighting Earth’s special place in the universe as the only known haven for life. Narrated by Sigourney Weaver. (25 min.)
2018 Christmas Flotilla Carolina Beach Boat Basin www.pleasureislandoflights.com Dec. 1 6pm. Fishing boats and pleasure craft electrically decorated with thousands of lights present a spectacular display on the Intracoastal Waterway. They cruise from Snows Cut to the Carolina Beach Boat Basin and back. The boats compete for prizes and add to the wonderful holiday spirit. A panel of judges will be on hand to choose the winners. Bring the family and enjoy the evening at Carolina Beach. www.wilmingtonparent.com
Wilmington Parent | December 2018 | 7
2 miles. Transportation from Halyburton Park is included.This hike costs $10, is for ages 16 and up, and preregistration is required.
GET OUT OF TOWN Christmas by the Sea Parade Oak Island Town Hall Dec. 1 2pm. The Christmas by the Sea Parade kicks off at Oak Island Town Hall, traveling Oak Island Drive to McGlamery Street. The parade showcases the businesses and organizations in the community, and includes a float decorating contest.
Annual Holiday Plant Sale NHC Arboretum www.abilitygarden.org Dec. 1 9am-1pm. The Annual Holiday Plant Sale at the New Hanover County Arboretum in Wilmington features plants grown by participants living with various disabilities, and includes poinsettias, specialty containers, a raffle, winter treats, coffee and hot cocoa. Proceeds give the Ability Garden the opportunity to use gardening as a healing tool. Admission is FREE.
FUN STUFF FOR TEENS Great Stories Club Main Library www.nhclibrary.org Dec. 4 & 18 5-7:30pm. NHCPL partners with CJS for this 9-part series on Heroism. This program is made possible by a grant from the American Library Association and the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Bird Hike Wrightsville Beach 910-341-0075 Dec. 20 8am-1pm. Join Halyburton Park staff for a morning of bird-watching. Each month we will explore a different site along the NC Birding Trail in the Coastal Plain. Each hike will be approximately
Lu Mil Vineyard Christmas Light Show 438 Suggs-Taylor Rd, Elizabethtown www.lumilvineyard.com Dec. 6, 9, and 13-23. 6-10pm. Drive your own vehicle through hundreds of thousands of lights and decorations that are synchronized to music you listen to on your own car radio. Cost is only $6 a person. A country buffet is offered from 5-9pm for $11 a person. Also visit with Santa, find goodies at the Candy Shop, and check out the Gift Shop with daily wine tastings. Christmas Fun Day Galloway Farm 372 Artesia Rd, Hallsboro www.ncmazecraze.com Dec. 8 9am-6pm. Enjoy breakfast or lunch and photos with Santa, hayrides, barrel train rides, sing-along Christmas trail, and games. Christmas on the Farm Hubb’s Farm www.hubbscornmaze.com Dec. 14-16 & 21-23 6-9pm. Christmas on the Farm features train rides, hayride, visit with Santa, giant slides, jumping pillow, barrel train and mini zip line.
Middle School Anime Club Northeast Library www.nhclibrary.org Dec. 5 4pm. All anime and manga enthusiasts in 6th to 8th grade are welcome to join this free club. Enjoy popcorn/snacks, streaming anime (no commercials!) and crafts (optional) at every meeting. You are also welcome to bring ANY art/manga/ fanart/fanfic you’ve been working on outside of the club to present and/or work on at the library. BRING A FRIEND! No registration required; 6th, 7th and 8th graders only, please. Teen Advisory Board Northeast Library www.nhclibrary.org Dec. 17 6pm. Get involved at your library! Teen Advisory Board members will help plan programs, create displays, develop community service projects, and more! Community service credit is offered for this program. Teen LGBTQ Book Club Northeast Library www.nhclibrary.org Dec. 18 pm. Once a month, come together to read short stories from All-Out: The No-Longer-Secret Stories of Queer Teens Throughout the Ages. Check www. nhclibrary.org for a list of stories being discussed each month. 8 | December 2018 | Wilmington Parent
16th Annual Holiday Parade Downtown Wilmington 910-341-7855 Dec. 2 5:55pm. This free event full of lights and music begins at North Front and Walnut Streets and moves south on Front Street, ending at Castle Street. www.wilmingtonparent.com
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM www.playwilmington.org 910-254-3534
Kid’s Cooking Club Tuesdays 3:30 - 4:30pm. Learn new skills and explore fun seasonal recipes. Then savor the flavor of your hard work. 12/4 - Learn About Hanukkah: Candy Menorah 12/11 - Reindeer Dip 12/18 - Holiday Snack Mix S.T.E.A.M. Explorations Wednesdays 10am & 3:30pm. STEAM programs explore Science, Technology, Engineering Arts, and Mathematics by applying them in fun, hands-on activities. Children will learn about the scientific process while measuring and recording in mathematical terms, developing critical thinking skills in the process. 12/5 - Hot Ice Experiment 12/12 - Snow Blower (Forces) 12/19 - Peppermint Oobleck StoryCOOKS Thursdays 10am. A cooking club for preschoolers where we read a story and make a dish inspired by the book. 12/6 - Hanukkah Lights: Candy Menorahs 12/13 - Wild Christmas Reindeer: Reindeer Dip 12/20 - If You Take a Mouse to the Movies: Holiday Snack Mix 12/27 - Snowmen at Night: Snowmen on a Stick Nature Navigators Thursdays 3:30pm. Join us in exploring the beauty of the world around us! Nature Navigators will help foster a love of nature in children of all ages. From animal tracks to scavenger hunts, come explore some North Carolinian nature with us! Ages 5 - 9. 12/6 - How Do Penguins Stay Dry 12/13 - Maps Through Museum 12/20 - Reindeer Toddler Time Fridays 10am. No registration necessary. Projects and activities for our youngest visitors ages 4 and under and their special grownups to work on together. 12/7 - Christmas Tree Suncatchers 12/14 - Thumbprint Christmas Lights 12/21 - Gingerbread Men Craft 12/28 - Melted Snowmen Adventures in the Arts Fridays 3:30pm. Registration required. Bring your child to express their creativity through various forms of art including--but not limited to--painting, sculpture, music, theater, dance, drawing, and printing. 12/7 - Clay Creations 12/14 - Faux Stained Glass Christmas Tree 12/21 - Christmas Sweater Collage 12/28 - Pasta Art
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CHILDCARE LISTING GUIDE CHILDCARE – PRESCHOOLS Childcare Network 8 convenient locations in Wilmington, Southport and Leland 866-521-KIDS www.childcarenetwork.com Ages 6-weeks to 12-years Jenkins Preschool Academy 7888 Market St. Wilmington, NC 28411 910-367-7210 www.jpawilmington.com Half day programs 9am-12pm, 2 or 3 day classes for 2-3 yr. olds, 5-day programs for 4 y.o. And PreK Gym & Learn Preschool Program Carolina Gymnastics Academy 3529 Carolina Beach Road Wilmington, NC 28412 www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com Ages 3-5, boys & girls, 9am-1pm. A good mix of structure, instruction, and free play including developmentally appropriate academics, gymnastics class, arts & crafts, & socialization. Put your name on the Waitlist now for 2018-2019. 3 day minimum!
Pax Natura Academy 4202 Wilshire Blvd. Wilmington, NC 910-791-2080 www.childcarenetwork.net/159 Early Foundations Infant & Toddler Programs. Preschool for 2 & 3 yo. Kindergarten Prep for 4 & 5 yo. After School Program. Wilmington Preschool of the Arts 3830 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC 28403 910-794-3025 www.wilmingtonartspreschoolnc.com Half and full day programs for ages 2 through Pre-K. We offer Spanish, dance, music and lots of art. Summer water play camps now in session. Limited spots in our 3 and 4 year old class for fall.
LIST YOUR PRESCHOOL, CHILDCARE CENTER HERE. CONTACT OUR AD EXECUTIVES FOR MORE INFORMATION.
DROP IN CHILDCARE Carolina Gymnastics Academy 3529 Carolina Beach Road Wilmington, NC 28412 910-796-1896 www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com We offer two opportunities for drop in care. Join us Friday and Saturday night for Parents Night Out, which is drop off/no parents. $8/hour. Also meet us at the gym for Watch Me Play, Monday-Saturday, 9am-11am, ages 5 and younger, with a parent. $6 at the door.
PARENTS NIGHT OUT Carolina Gymnastics Academy 3529 Carolina Beach Road Wilmington, NC 28412 910-796-1896 www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com Friday & Saturday nights, 6-10pm, ages 3-11. Drop your children off for supervised free play in our 15,000 sq. foot gymnastics facility. Run, jump, & flip with your friends all night long! Parents can relax at home, or get things done while the kids have fun!!
The Little Gym of Wilmington 132 Racine Drive, Unit 1 910-799-3771/3770 tlgwilmingtonnc@thelittlegym.com www.tlgwilmingtonnc.com When school’s out or you are looking for a safe, fun and nurturing environment for your child in Wilmington, we’ve got your back! The Little Gym offers classes as well as weekend Parents’ Survival Nights. We combine physical activity, gymnastics, games, and arts & crafts. Call us for fun!
Wilmington Parent | December 2018 | 9
Historic Toys and Games Cape Fear Museum Daily. 10am & 3pm. Come out to play, create and imagine in Cape Fear Museum’s newest exhibit, PlayTime! Play games from the past, create historic toys and imagine how people have had fun together for generations! Special activities in PlayTime gallery 10-11 AM and 3-4 PM. Adult participation is required. Regular PlayTime activities include the ball run, spinning tops, dress-up and the performance stage, origami and much more! Fun for all ages!
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol Cape Fear Playhouse www.bigdawgproductions.org Dec. 6-9 8pm. Big Dawg Productions presents the classic Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol. Please note: The Sunday performance is a matinee beginning at 3pm. Admission is between $18-$25. Floating Lantern Ceremony Cameron Art Museum www.cameronartmuseum.org Dec. 9 4-7pm. A chance to express gratitude and wishes on a lantern and watch as it floats on the museum pond.
CAPE FEAR MUSEUM www.capefearmuseum.com 910-798-4350
Little Explorers Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays 10am. Explore the world around us with hands-on activities, experiments and fun in Museum Park! Enjoy interactive story time, exploration stations and play related to a weekly theme. In event of inclement weather, program moved inside. Ages 3-6 and their adult helpers. Adult participation is required. 12/1 & 12/6 - Taste Adventures 12/7, 8 & 13 - Move It! 12/14, 15,& 20 - Ice Matters 12/21, 22, & 27 - Winter Wonderland 12/28 & 12/29 - Spin Like a Top
Japanese art, aesthetic and history. The exhibit includes experiences for all ages. With Sketch Aquarium visitors are invited to color a drawing of a sea creature. Once completed, the paper is scanned and the image is projected onto a giant virtual aquarium. Visitors will be able to see their creation come to life and swim with all of the other sea creatures and may also touch the fish to see them swim away, or touch the virtual food bag to feed the fish.
Youth Theatre Auditions for Stuart Little Community Arts Center 910-251-1788 Dec. 8 10am. The production presents the unique opportunity for Wilmington’s youth community to participate in a non-musical production that will focus solely on acting. Please prepare a 30-second to one-minute monologue/speech/poem to perform. Memorization is not mandatory but is preferred. Call to schedule an audition time. Choir Concert: Handel’s Messiah St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 910-762-4578 Dec. 13 & 14 7:30pm. The Choir of St. Paul’s in Wilmington presents Handel’s Messiah featuring soloists with the North Carolina Baroque Orchestra --
Discovery Lab Saturdays 2-3pm. Discover history, science and cultures of the Lower Cape Fear through hands-on exploration and fun science labs, self-guided discovery stations. Ages 5 and up. Adult participation is required. 12/15 - Icy Explorations 12/29 - Exploring Space
ALL MONTH LONG A Time When Art is Everywhere Cameron Art Museum Daily, through 2/1/19. 10am-5pm. Featuring work by teamLab, a team of more than 500 programmers, engineers, CG animators, mathematicians, artists and architects designing interpretations rooted in 10 | December 2018 | Wilmington Parent
Holiday Skating Rink Mayfaire Town Center www.holidayskaterink.com Daily through Jan 1. Wilmington’s first 80’ x 40’ Outdoor Synthetic Ice Skating Rink has arrived in time for the holidays! Whether you’re looking for a family friendly activity, a romantic night with a loved one, a unique experience or a holiday tradition, Holiday Skating in Wilmington is sure to have something for everyone! Reserve a time online, 50 minutes of skate time is $10 per person. You can bring your own skates or skate rentals are $5 per person. www.wilmingtonparent.com
Nancy King, soprano; Jami Rhodes, mezzo-soprano; Melvin Ezzell, tenor; and John Callison, baritone. Purchase tickets online at eventbrite. North Carolina Symphony Holiday Pops Wilson Center Dec. 19 7:30pm. The program features a celebration of
the sounds of the season with favorites from Greensleeves to White Christmas, plus the annual sing-a-long. It’s a Wonderful Life Thalian Hall www.thalianhall.org Dec. 20 4pm & 7pm. Don’t miss this annual screening of the Frank Capra holiday classic, It’s a Wonderful Life. Tickets are $12.
PARENT’S DATE NIGHT The Night Before Christmas Jazz Concert Warriors of Christ Church Dec. 1 6pm. Features saxophonist Darryl Murrill & Jazzpel, vocalist Nicole Thompson, bassist Carlo Rouse, and violinist Christa Faison. A portion of the proceeds benefit DREAMS of Wilmington. Art Exhibit: Magical India and the Girls of Homes of Hope WHQR Art Gallery 910-343-1640 Dec. 1-17 10am-4pm. WHQR Radio in downtown Wilmington, NC, presents Magical India and the Girls of Homes of Hope, paintings and sketches by Todd Carignan. Admission is FREE.
Baby Obstacle Course Main Library www.nhclibrary.org Dec. 7 10am. Join us for a baby workout! Traverse through tunnels, explore, and make new friends! Bring your adventurous baby 18 months and younger! No registration is required. www.wilmingtonparent.com
2018 Tour of Homes Carolina & Kure Beach Dec. 8 5-9pm. Teresa Clontz @ teresa.clontz@yahoo.com Take a self guided tour through some of Pleasure Island’s (Carolina & Kure Beaches) most beautiful homes when they are decorated for the holidays. Enjoy southern hospitality at its best as the owners welcome you into the privacy of their homes for this special holiday treat. The Tickets will be available at businesses on Pleasure Island including The Checkered Church @ 800 Saint Joseph Street and Christmasea Store @ 807 N Lake Park Blvd. Wilmington Parent | December 2018 | 11
CAMP DAYS DECEMBER 17DECEMBER 31! Limited spots! Call 910-799-3771 to sign up! The Little Gym of Wilmington • 132 Racine Drive, Unit 1 Wilmington, NC 28403 www.tlgwilmingtonnc.com • 910-799-3771
COMING IN January... Annual Education Guide
Holiday Pops: A Dickens Christmas Country Club of Landfall www.countrycluboflandfall.com Dec. 18 7pm. A night out featuring the Wilmington Boys Choir performing favorite Christmas Carols and Holiday Classics. Dinner and drinks included. Tickets are $30. 4th Friday Gallery Night Downtown Wilmington www.artscouncilofwilmington.org Dec. 28 6-9pm. A monthly self-guided tour of galleries, studios and art spaces featuring exhibitions of various artistic genres including oils, acrylics, watercolors, pastels, photography, glass, metals, wood, ceramics, mixed media and more. 4th Fridays also include opening receptions, artist discussions, demonstrations, live music, wine, food and other art-related activities. Participating venues include Aces Gallery, Acme Art Studios, The Art Factory, Art in Bloom Gallery, The Golden Gallery, The ArtWorks, New Elements Gallery, Port City Pottery & Fine Crafts, Expo 216, Flytrap Brewery, River to Sea Gallery, The WHQR Gallery, Crescent Moon, and The Daniels Gallery.
NATIONAL DAYS
12/3-12/10 Chanukah/Hanukkah 12/4 National Cookie Day 12/7 Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day 12/17 Wrights Brothers Day 12/20 National Ugly Christmas Sweater Day 12/21 Winter Solstice 12/24 Christmas Eve 12/25 Christmas Day 12/26-1/1 Kwanzaa 12/31 New Year’s Eve
ON OUR RADAR Mamma Mia Thalian Hall Jan. 3-6 7:30pm. Opera House Theatre Company presents Mamma Mia. The musical is told through hits by ABBA including Dancing Queen; Gimme, Gimme, Gimme; The Name of the Game; Voulez Vous; SOS; and Knowing Me, Knowing You.Please note: Additional shows include a Saturday matinee at 2pm and a Sunday matinee at 3pm. Live Action Fortnite Northeast Library www.nhclibrary.org Jan. 18 5-7:30pm. Unfortunately, you can’t parachute out of a Battle Bus IRL, but you can sneak, build, and do the Floss as much as you like at our live action version of Fortnite: Battle Royale. This is an after-hours event and requires all teens who participate to have a signed waiver on file. This waiver will be emailed to you when you register. This event is for teens only. Register online starting Dec. 21. Spots will fill quickly.
To submit events to the calendar, please email Danielle.wilmingtonparent@gmail.com. Deadline for submissions to the January issue is December 9, 2018. 12 | December 2018 | Wilmington Parent
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PHILLIPS ORTHODONTICS
OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR 2019-20 BEGINS FEBRUARY 1ST
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"We Find Smiles" Complimentary consultations for patients of all ages Offering traditional braces and Invisalign
In-house interest-free payment plans Same day starts available
(910) 367-0287 I www.jpawilmington.com I 7888 Market St
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Find more resources at
Give the giſt of summer camp!
www.wilmingtonparent.com
uncw.edu/marinequest
Summer 2019 registration now open ...an ocean of knowledge awaits you!
An EEO/AA Institution
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1427 Military Cutoff Rd, Unit 102 mantascuts.com • 910.269.3922
Baby to Adult Cuts & Nails Fashion Hair Color & Parties Wilmington Parent | December 2018 | 13
Santa Sightings Victorian Christmas Open House Fort Fisher State Historic Site
910-251-7340 Dec. 4 10am-3pm. Come out and enjoy refreshments, an appearance by Father Christmas, decorations, and entertainment throughout the day, including musical performances.
A Merry Little Christmas Festival Poplar Grove Plantation
www.poplargrove.org Dec. 7-9, 14-16, Fri 5-8pm, Sat noon-8pm, Sun noon-5pm. A European Winter Bazaar experience featuring arts and craft vendors, a bonfire for roasting marshmallows, visits with Santa, lawn games, and outdoors screenings of The Polar Express, A Christmas Story, and Elf. The grounds and barnyard will be decorated with seasonal vignettes and and the manor house will be open for evening candlelit tours. Admission is $5.
Christmas by the Sea Carolina Beach Lake Park
www.pleasureislandnc.org Dec. 1, 8, 15 6:30-8:30pm. Visits with Santa, storytelling, caroling, pony rides, arts & crafts, puppet shows, and hot chocolate. Admission is free.
SPECIAL SECTION: Celebrate the Holidays
Reindeer Drawn Carriage Rides Downtown Wilmington
Dec. 14, 15, 21, 22, 23, 24 6-10pm. Horsedrawn Tours in downtown Wilmington presents “Reindeer” Drawn Carriage Rides featuring caroling and kids get free candy canes from Santa. Tickets are between $5-$12.
2018 Cape Fear Festival of Trees The Cape Fear Festival of Trees has been a tradition throughout the years, even if the location has changed, the event is still a sight to behold. Set amidst the inspiring and educational backdrop of the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, this year’s Cape Fear Festival of Trees is sure to be one of the most unique festivities on the Cape Fear coast! Thanks to the generosity of the presenting sponsor First Citizens Bank, visitors delight in dozens of dazzling, decorated trees in a unique aquatic setting. Come out and enjoy a day at the aquarium while marveling at the 50 festive trees decorated by local businesses, organizations and individual artists transforming the aquarium into an elegant forest. This daily event will continue throughout the month of December, with its last day on January 2. All visitors who purchase a general admission ticket to the Aquarium, between the hours of 9am-5pm, will also experience this annual holiday presentation. Proceeds from this year’s event will benefit the Lower Cape Fear Hospice Foundation. For more information visit www.lcfh.org or www.ncaquariums.com/fort-fisher.
Bellamy Mansion Museum hosts “Christmas Stroll Through the Past On Saturday, December 8, 2018, the Bellamy Mansion Museum, the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens, and St. James Episcopal Church will host Christmas Stroll Through the Past from 4:30 to 7:30 pm. Guests can visit the sites for a festive evening filled with holiday decor, live music, period costumes, refreshments, children’s activities, and more! Tickets are $20 plus tax for adults and $10 plus tax for children ages 3+. Children under 3 are free. Purchase tickets at the Bellamy Mansion Museum or the BurgwinWright House. Tickets can also be purchased at the door the day of the event. A portion of each ticket sold goes directly to the Bellamy Mansion Museum and Burgwin-Wright House for educational and preservation efforts. The Bellamy Mansion Museum, located at 503 Market Street in Wilmington, is a nonprofit educational institution dedicated to interpreting the social and architectural history of the Bellamy Mansion and promoting a greater understanding of historic preservation, architectural history and restoration methods in North Carolina. For more information about the Christmas Stroll Through the Past, contact Carolyn Gonzalez at 910-251-3700 x306 or cgonzalez@bellamymansion.org. 14 | December 2018 | Wilmington Parent
www.wilmingtonparent.com
Holiday Lights Galore!
Dec. 7-22 5-7 & 7-9 at Airlie Gardens is an opportunity for families to share in the joy of the season with a half-mile self-guided stroll through the gardens featuring festive lights, holiday displays, and Santa Claus, plus local food and beverage vendors with coffee, hot chocolate, popcorn, cookies and more. Tickets must be pre-purchased EARLY at www.airliegardens.com, and are per carload.
Island of Lights
Enjoy a month long Island of Lights Festival in Carolina & Kure Beaches. Carolina Beach Lake Park comes alive every night at sunset, and a drive around Kure Beach will find magnificent displays, ending at Ocean Front Park.
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*Olympic Trampolines *Trick Walls *Kids Court *Dodgeball *Professional Ninja Course
*Aerial Lyra *Slackline & Silks *Basketball *Trapeze *Airtrack *Full Cafe *Airbag *Arcade *Best Birthday Parties in the ILM
910.679.5050 flipnfly.com
830 Inspiration Drive Wilmington, NC 28405
Christmas Train and Light Spectacular
Come downtown to the Wilmington Railroad Museum and be amazed at this great walk-through show that will charm all ages. Come on down to see festive synchronized light & sound displays, specially decorated holiday trains running on twilight layouts, visits with Santa, sensational decorations, and hot cider and cookies afterward. Dates for the shows are Dec. 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 26, 28 & 29. Tickets are only $5 at the door and kids 2 and under are free. www.wilmingtonparent.com
Located in Mayfaire
Wilmington Parent | December 2018 | 15
SPECIAL SECTION: Celebrate the Holidays
Enchanted Airlie
Holiday Markets Carolina Beach Holiday Market Carolina Beach Lake Park www.pleasureislandnc.org Dec. 1 9am-3pm. Seasonal shopping by the sea.
Island Montessori School Holiday Bazaar Courtyard Marriott in Carolina Beach
Dec. 2 10am. This free event features more than 20 local artists, crafters and vendors with jewelry, soaps, woodworking, home decor and more. Raffle items and student crafts help raise money for the school’s classrooms.
SPECIAL SECTION: Celebrate the Holidays
Artisan Holiday Market Mayfaire Town Center
Holiday Shows for the Family
Daily through Dec. 24 10am-9pm, Sundays noon-6pm. Gourmet foods, natural skin care shop, an art gallery, and local artisans with everything from handmade jewelry, candles and soaps, to ornaments, sculpture, pottery, wood items, and clothing.
A Carolina Nutcracker Wilson Center
German Christmas Market St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church
Dec. 1 & 2 Saturday, 7pm & Sunday 3pm. A full-length traditional production of the beloved holiday ballet. Set in 1865 at Bellamy Mansion in downtown Wilmington, the ballet includes all the classics of the original -- Drosselmeyer, the Mouse King, and the Sugar-Plum Fairy -- merged with the Port City’s own unique history. The City Ballet is joined by professional guest artists from the Carolina Ballet in Raleigh, and Tchaikovsky’s familiar score is performed by a live 50-piece professional orchestra and a treble chorus.
910-791-4582 Dec. 8 10am-6pm. Featuring live music by the Harbour Towne Fest Band, German food and beverages, gifts and crafts, and a silent auction and raffle. Kids under 5 admitted free. Parking on site for handicapped visitors; offsite parking at UNCW lot located behind Taco Bell with free trolley service to the event.
Kure Beach Fantasy Christmas Show Ocean Front Park
Dec. 7-9 Fri & Sat 7pm, Sun 5pm. This show stars everyone’s favorite characters: Frosty, Harriet Hippo, the Grinch, Olaf, Anna, Elsa, Rudolph and many more. Santa Claus will be there, along with his crazy elves and their zany antics. Admission is free!
A Charlie Brown Christmas Wilson Center
Dec. 8 2pm. Live actors and jazz musicians in a fast-paced 28-minute show with the original Vince Guaraldi score. Tickets are between $8-$10, kids under 13 admitted free. Please bring non-perishable food for Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard.
The Great Wilmington Nutcracker Wilson Center and Odell Williamson Auditorium Dec. 9, Odell Williamson Auditorium. Dec. 15-16, Wilson Center. Sat 6pm, Sun 3pm.
This year’s production is under the leadership of Italian Ballet Stars, Walter Angelini and Ines Albertini, and features more than 30 professional dancers from five countries including local youth dancers and athletes from the Special Olympics.
Polar Express Family Events Polar Express Family Shows Wilmington Railroad Museum
910-763-2634 Dec. 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23 4:30pm & 5:30pm each day. This warm holiday event is a great way to enjoy the season with a reading of the classic story by WWAY-TV personalities, visit with Santa, and sip on hot chocolate afterward. Call to reserve and pay for your tickets. By prepaid reservation, only $5 each, children under age 2 free.
Polar Express Days at the Children’s Museum
Dec. 8 & 15 9am-12pm. It’s that time of year again- POLAR EXPRESS DAY is BACK with TWO days of fun instead of only one! Wear your favorite pajamas and get ready to be whisked away to the North Pole on an epic winter wonderland adventure. Ride the train around the block, sip hot cocoa while you create holiday crafts, and tell Santa himself your holiday wish! Don’t forget to get a “believe bell” on your way in! Ours will ring, will yours?”
Pajama Storytime and Activities Featuring The Polar Express Barnes & Noble
910-509-1880 7pm. Join us for this beloved Christmas story featuring a young boy who is welcomed aboard on a magical trip to the North Pole where he gets to make his Christmas wish. Get free hot chocolate and a cookie from our Café, and don’t forget to wear your favorite cozy pajamas.
New Year’s Eve 2018 New Year’s Celebration Kure Beach Boardwalk
www.pleasureislandoflights.com Dec. 31 9pm. Don’t miss the giant beach ball being dropped at midnight followed by a spectacular fireworks demonstration. This free family-friendly event will feature a DJ and dancing with refreshments and party favors available for purchase. In an Island of Lights tradition there will be a raffle, with the winner taking home the original artwork for the Island of Lights 2017 official Christmas card and ornament.
New Year’s Noon Children’s Museum of Wilmington
www.playwilmington.org Dec. 31 9am-12pm. Countdown to the New Year with us! Toast to 2019 with a juice toast, make a party crown, streamer sticks, glittery slime and more! The event culminates with an epic confetti toss at NOON in the courtyard! 16 | December 2018 | Wilmington Parent
www.wilmingtonparent.com
Exquisite Children's Clothing
TOP 5 GIFT FLOPS
T
he holiday season is packed full of deals, some too good to pass up (or so we think)! But before you put on your bargain-hunting hat for some hard core Christmas shopping, take note: the retail return experts at B-Stock sifted through piles of returned presents and data from nine of the top 10 retailers (including Amazon, Target, Macy’s, Nordstrom, Home Depot, Lowe’s and others) and have released the “5 Most Frequently Returned Gifts.” So, before you buy your sister-in-law that crockpot, see below and make sure your hard-earned money doesn’t get re-gifted, returned, or sit collecting dust.
Women’s Trendy Apparel: Shirts with ruffle overload and sleeve cutouts are a definite gift DON’T. Same goes for bedazzled booties.
Specialty Kitchen Items: You might be sending your significant other the wrong message by getting them a crockpot (hello, anyone watch “This Is Us”?). Also, leave the espresso maker where it belongs, in someone else’s kitchen.
Stop by and visit us to view our selection of Christmas outfits for the Holidays! Receive 10% OFF your next purchase with any Holiday outfit purchase! LOCATED IN THE COTTON EXCHANGE 910-399-6801 • www.littleangelboutiques.com
Give the Gift of
Adventure!
Lego Sets: Any parent knows that picking up up hundreds of tiny lego pieces totally blows. End of story.
Small Hand Tools: Could there be anything more boring than a tape measure? I mean, unless it’s personalized with a monogram and favorite colors, it’s probably going back to the hardware store. Note: tape measures have made the list for two years running.
Dolls (the creepy lifelike ones): You know, the ones that blink and crawl and do the potty dance. Little girls around the world have spoken: they’d rather play with trucks.
Discounted gift card packs, season passes, and tickets that include bonus gifts!
Best deals of the year! We offer Open Jump,Trampoline DodgeBall, Family Night, College Night, Special Needs Night, Ultimate Birthday Parties, Extreme Slumber Parties and much more!
6431 Market Street • 910-444-1002 • DefyGravity.us.Wilmington www.wilmingtonparent.com
919-410-7347 Raleigh@TreeRunnerParks.com www.TreeRunnerRaleigh.com Wilmington Parent | December 2018 | 17
SPECIAL SECTION: Celebrate the Holidays
Little Angels Boutique
HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE GIVE THE GIFT OF MEMBERSHIP
SPECIAL SECTION: Celebrate the Holidays
Surprise your family with a Family Membership to the N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Enjoy unlimited free admission for one full year at all three North Carolina Aquariums. Family memberships receive free admission for two adults named on the card and their children or grandchildren under the age of 18. As an added bonus members receive free or discounted admission to more than 150 zoos and aquariums around the country including the NC Zoo. Call us for details 800-832-FISH (3474) or go online and join today! www.ncaquariums.com/membership
WILMINGTON SCHOOL OF BALLET & DANCE Wilmington School of Ballet & Dance teaches a love of dance from princess ballet to professional training. Little ones learn in a magical princess class. Older students can train professionally or recreationally. All students are thrilled with our many dance performance opportunities. Come try a free class and be a part of our dance family. Ballet, Tap & Jazz classes from 2 1/2 years old and up. 1/2 off a 100.00 gift certificate for any new student Wilmington School of Ballet 2250 Shipyard Blvd. Unit 12 Wilmington, NC 28403 910-794-9590
BUY A GIFT CARD FOR $25 AND GET A FREE ONE HOUR JUMP! Flip N Fly 830 Inspiration Drive 910-679-5050 flipnflync@gmail.com www.flipnfly.com 18 | December 2018 | Wilmington Parent
CAROLINA GYMNASTICS ACADEMY Leotards, CGA hoodies & sweatshirts, Rhythmic Gymnastics Equipment all for sale in our Proshop! 3529 Carolina Beach Road Wilmington, NC 28412 910-796-1896 www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com
LITTLE ANGELS BOUTIQUE Stop by and visit us to view our selection of Christmas outfits for the Holidays! Gift certificates available! Little Angels Boutique 346 Nutt St. Wilmington, NC 29401 Littleangelboutique18@gmail.com 910-399-6801 • Littleangelboutiques.com
LOOKING TO PAMPER YOUR CHILD? Manta’s Cuts, Wilmington’s Award-Winning Kids Salon, has you covered. Create the perfect gift with a mix of high-end hair, nail, or bath products and a gift certificate for a nail, hair, or color service. Don’t have time to swing by the salon? You can purchase your certificate over the phone. Manta’s Cuts Kids & Family Salon 1427 Military Cutoff Rd., Unit 102, Wilmington, NC 910.269.3922 • www.mantascuts.com www.wilmingtonparent.com
HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE
GIVE THE PERFECT EXPERIENTIAL GIFT THIS HOLIDAY SEASON WITH A GIFT CARD THAT WORKS AT ALL DEFY PARKS. Then, to complete the package, we’ll add in a pair of our lightweight and durable grip socks for free, and send it to you wrapped and ready to slip into your loved one’s stocking. DefyGravity • 6431 Market Street (910) 444-1002 • www.defygravity.us/wilmington
https://stockingstuffer.defy.com/stocking-stuffer-defy-gravity-wilmington/
GIVE THE GIFT OF THE LITTLE GYM THIS HOLIDAY SEASON! We are waiving your membership when you enroll for classes this holiday season. Must Bring in this Ad! New Members Only. Offer Expires 12/26/18 The Little Gym of Wilmington (910) 799-3771 • www.tlgwilmingtonnc.com
GIVE A GIFT OF WILMINGTON ROCK GYM’S MOST POPULAR CLASS! Discover Climbing: 1.5 hour class with a certified instructor. Basic instruction about gear and climbing and a lot of fun climbing. $42.00 per gift card. Wilmington Rock Gym 8118 Market Street, Wilmington, NC 28411 910-319-7209 www.wilmingtonrockgym.com
GIVE THE GIFT OF ADVENTURE! Our Cyber Season is here! This includes, discounted gift card packs, season passes, and tickets that include bonus gifts! These are the best deals of the season and are available now until the end of the year! TreeRunner Raleigh Adventure Park is a premier aerial adventure park in the Raleigh-Durham area. With over 70 exciting obstacles and zip lines, three difficulty levels, and seven different courses, there is plenty to explore! We also have a Junior Park for kids ages 4 to 7, for the little ones to enjoy! TreeRunner Adventure Park 12804 Norwood Road Raleigh NC 27613 919-410-7347 • www.TreeRunnerRaleigh.com Raleigh@TreeRunnerParks.com www.wilmingtonparent.com
GIVE THE GIFT OF CAMP! UNCW MarineQuest www.uncw.edu/marinequest marinequest@uncw.edu 910.962.2640
Wilmington Parent | December 2018 | 19
SPECIAL SECTION: Celebrate the Holidays
GIVE THE GIFT OF THEATRE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON WITH A GIFT CARD FROM THALIAN HALL! To purchase please call our box office at 910-632-2285. Thalianhall.org
Staff’s Holiday Favorites Holiday Movie Danielle - Polar Express
Danielle - 12 Days of Christmas by Straight No Chaser
Keith -
Keith -
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
Andrea - National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
SPECIAL SECTION: Celebrate the Holidays
Christmas Song
Nancy -
Miracle on 34th Street
Yulia -
How The Grinch Stole Christmas
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring, David Qualey
Andrea - Dominick the Donkey Nancy -
Christmas Canon by Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Yulia -
I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas
Holiday Dessert/Cookie Yulia: Cut out Sugar Cookie With Frosting Ingredients Sugar Cookies 1 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature (226g) 1 cup sugar (200g) 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 large egg 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (315g) 3/4 teaspoon baking powder 3/4 teaspoon salt Sugar Cookie Frosting 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted (375g) 3-4 Tablespoons milk 2 Tablespoons light corn syrup 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Gel food coloring optional Additional candies and sprinkles for decorating optional Directions Sugar Cookies Combine butter and sugar and beat until creamy and well-combined. Add egg and vanilla extract and beat until completely combined. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients. Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap and transfer half of the dough onto the wrap. Cover with clear wrap and mold into a disk. Repeat with remaining cookie dough in another piece of cling wrap. Transfer dough to refrigerator and chill for at least 2-3. Preheat oven to 350F (175C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Generously dust a clean surface with flour and deposit one chilled cookie dough disk onto the surface. Lightly flour dough and roll out to 1/8”. Continue to add flour as needed both on top of and beneath the dough so that it doesn’t stick. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, transfer shapes to baking sheet. Bake on 350F for 9-10 minutes. Allow cookies to cool completely before moving and frosting. Sugar Cookie Frosting Combine sugar, 2 Tablespoons of milk, corn syrup, and vanilla extract and stir until combined. If frosting is too thick, add more milk, about a teaspoon at a time. If you accidentally add too much milk, add powdered sugar until desired texture is reached. If coloring the frosting, divide into bowls and color as desired at this point. Transfer frosting to a piping bag with a piping tip or place in a Ziploc bag and snip a small piece of the corner off. Pipe frosting on cookies and decorate with decorative candies, if desired.
20 | December 2018 | Wilmington Parent
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Danielle: Christmas Bark Ingredients 40 salted saltine crackers or enough to line your pan 1 cup unsalted butter 1 cup packed brown sugar 2 cups milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips ¾ cup chopped pecans (optional)
Andrea: Potato Candy
Keith: Creme Brulee
Ingredients 1 medium baked potato 2lb bag powdered sugar 1 tsp. Vanilla 1/2 tsp. Salt
Ingredients 1 quart heavy cream 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped 1 cup vanilla sugar, divided 6 large egg yolks 2 quarts hot water
Directions Bake potato. Peel and mash to get 1/2 cup of potato. Add salt and vanilla. Work in sugar until dough can be handled easily. Divide dough into half. Roll out dough onto waxed paper to 1/4 inch thick. Spread with peanut butter. Roll up jelly roll style. Chill until firm. Slice before serving.
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Ingredients 1 cup soft butter ½ cup sifted confectioners sugar 1 tsp vanilla 2 ¼ cup flour ¼ tsp salt ¾ cup finely chopped walnuts Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Mix butter, sugar, and vanilla thoroughly. Sift together flour and salt, stir in. Mix in nuts. Chill dough. Roll dough into 1” balls. Place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 10-12 minutes. While still warm, roll in confectioners sugar. Cool. Roll in confectioners sugar again.
Directions Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Place the cream, vanilla bean and its pulp into a medium saucepan set over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Remove from the heat, cover and allow to sit for 15 minutes. Remove the vanilla bean and reserve for another use. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup sugar and the egg yolks until well blended and it just starts to lighten in color. Add the cream a little at a time, stirring continually. Pour the liquid into 6 (7 to 8-ounce) ramekins. Place the ramekins into a large cake pan or roasting pan. Pour enough hot water into the pan to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Bake just until the creme brulee is set, but still trembling in the center, approximately 40 to 45 minutes. Remove the ramekins from the roasting pan and refrigerate for at least 2 hours and up to 3 days. Remove the creme brulee from the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes prior to browning the sugar on top. Divide the remaining 1/2 cup vanilla sugar equally among the 6 dishes and spread evenly on top. Using a torch, melt the sugar and form a crispy top. Allow the creme brulee to sit for at least 5 minutes before serving.
Wilmington Parent | December 2018 | 21
SPECIAL SECTION: Celebrate the Holidays
Directions Preheat oven to 400ºF. Line a 15x10inch jelly roll pan or large cookie sheet with edges with foil. Spray the foil with cooking spray. Place saltine crackers in a single layer. In a small saucepan, combine sugar and butter and bring to a boil. Once mixture is at a boil, continue boiling for 3 minutes. Mixture should be a deep caramel color. Immediately pour over saltines and spread to cover crackers completely. Bake at 400°F 5 to 6 minutes. The crackers will look all bubbly. Remove from oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over the top and let sit a couple of minutes to melt. Then spread crackers with the melted chocolate. Top with chopped nuts if desired.
Nancy: Snowball Cookies
NEW PRODUCTS HOLIDAY EDITION Nuna Leaf Grow
For Baby
SPECIAL SECTION: Celebrate the Holidays
VIVAIODAYS
Here are some adorable organic gifting options for baby’s first holiday! VIVAIODAYS has the below three kits available: •Welcome Home Newborn ($61) Organic Wash & Shampoo, Organic Rescue Balm for diaper rash, and Organic soft Bunny Rattle •First Year Baby Essentials ($47) Gender Neutral Organic Cotton Hoodie, Organic Apricot Oil Face & Body Lotion, Organic Wash & Shampoo •Happy Bathtime Tots ($50) Organic Wash & Shampoo, Organic Leave-On Conditioner, Organic Apricot Face & Body Lotion, and Dunk & Dive Toy Set Can be purchased at www.vivaiodays.com
Preschool Age Kids
From newborn. To toddler. To big kid. They keep on growing. One thing that is constant? Their need for comfort and a space to call their own. A gentle nudge from you sways LEAF™ grow from side-to-side. Movement so calming, they may just start snoozing. And if they do? No problem. Down and up they go with an adjustable recline that grows with them. Your child will adore it. No matter how old they are. Purchase at www.nuna.eu/leaf-grow-usa
School Age Kids Stomp Rocket Stunt Planes
Shapes & Shadows
Playing games and solving puzzles engage children’s brains, eyes, and hands, encouraging them to manipulate elements using fine motor skills, problem solving, shape recognition, focus, memory, and social skills. This amazing toy combines the classic fun of shadow play with puppettheater enchantment! The large frosted screen framed with a fun forest scene easily slides into the sturdy foam base. Adults can help children set the screen in front of a lamp or a flashlight and the show begins! Grab the thirty foam shapes and the ten rubber connectors to start building all kinds of fascinating characters. A cat, an elephant, a bird, a camel, and more - Illustrated instructions show you how to build fifteen unique creatures. Or, let the child’s imagination do the building! www.robly.com
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Spin and Seek
Do You Know Your ABCs? In the Spin & Seek ABC Game, children explore the alphabet and learn the difference between big and little letters. Players spin the spinner and seek matching letters with images inspired by The World of Eric Carle. The World of Eric Carle encourages playful learning. With The Very Hungry Caterpillar as its centerpiece, the brand has touched the lives of children around the world for three generations through Eric Carle’s timeless stories and vibrant artwork. Reinforces upper and lowercase letter recognition. Encourages early reading skills. For ages 3 and up. Purchase at Walmart for $12.19.
22 | December 2018 | Wilmington Parent
3 Unique Planes in 1 Package – Each package includes three amazing Stunt Planes, which look and fly very differently. Looper makes giant loops. Wildcat flips, turns and soars. Glider does tricks and glides over 100 feet! 100% Kid-Powered – Kids get plenty of active outdoor time as they run, jump and stomp to launch their Stunt Planes. Portable – Unpack Stunt Planes in the backyard, at the park, on playgrounds, at birthday parties, at campsites, and at family gatherings for safe, year-round fun. Ages 5 to 12 (and fun for adults, too!) $29.99 Available at Target.com, BedBathandBeyond.com Walmart.com and more!
Educational Insights Brainbolt
Get your game on: brainbolt is the mind-melting light-up memory game from the game experts at Educational Insights. How to play: challenge your brain by memorizing the light sequence and following along for as long as you can without breaking the pattern. Solo or two-player mode: challenge yourself or go head-to-head with a friend to see who can remember the most. Level up: timed mode and advanced mode take things to the next level. Ready for travel: brainbolt’s handheld design is perfect to go anywhere you want to play. Purchase on Amazon for $21.99.
Cinemood
Create your own movie theater. This 0.5lb, 3” portable, smart mini projector is kid-friendly, with easy directional button controls. It projects images up to 12-feet, from HD 1080p resolution. No connection to computer or wall outlet is needed. Choose from a huge CINEMOOD digital library that includes 40 Disney e-books and 25 safety videos and stories. Also, enjoy 75+ episodes of other fun cartoons, plus lots more endearing e-books, popular lullabies and more. Access and stream Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, AmebaTV, YouTube, and YouTube Kids directly from the CINEMOOD menu screen. Download Netflix or Amazon Prime Videos directly on CINEMOOD to enjoy anywhere, without WiFi. Upload and play your own content with 16GB of internal memory. Create a lasting impression not soon to be forgotten. Purchase on Amazon.
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For Teens
For the Family
RazorX Cruiser Electric Skateboard
Special Need Kids Magic Buttons
Buttons can be hard for little fingers to maneuver into button holes, especially for kids with developmental delays and disabilities. Maura Horton created a magnetic closure system for clothing when her husband was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and lost mobility in his hands. Now, she is growing the MagnaReady clothing line with the introduction of MagnaMini shirts for boys. Available in white and a red tartan plaid for the winter season, the MagnaMini shirts are easy for boys to put on. All they have to do is put their arms in the sleeves, line up the two sides of the shirt front and with a click, click, click the magnets will “button” the shirt for them like magic! The shirts are machine washable and have the standard white buttons on the front for a decorative finish and classic look. Purchase at www.magnaready.com.
For Grandma & Grandpa For the Forgetful Cook - FireAvert’s Auto Stove Shutoff
The most effective way to protect your home from stove fires. Installs in less then 10 minutes and requires no tools or professional skill. FireAvert will automatically cut power to your stove when your smoke alarm sounds from food left unattended. Imagine the peace of mind knowing your stove can turn itself off! It’s reusable and doesn’t expire. Purchase at www.bestlivingtech.com/stove-safety-from-fireavert
For Dad
For Mom
Kafe in the Box
MyChelle Perfect C Cleansing Oil
Ditch the Disposable Cup. Kafe in the Box is a stylish and light double walled reusable coffee travel cup, without the heaviness of stainless or ceramic cups. Fits car cup holders, has sculpted spout which “hugs” your lip as you drink. Light, beautiful and different! Drink outside the Box! Available for purchase on Amazon for $15.99. www.wilmingtonparent.com
Fazl Socks
When your feet feel good, chances are the rest of your body will too. A cute, comfy pair of socks gives you spring in your step as you set out to conquer the world. What can feel even better is when the comfy socks you are wearing also gives back. Every pair of Fazl Socks cradles your feet in comfort while doing good in the world. Fazl Socks are handmade in the Himalayas by women who craft each pair using designs handed down from generation to generation. They’re made from a unique blend of acrylic and nylon so they’re soft and so comfortable they’re bound to make you smile. Cuteness aside, the real beauty of Fazl Socks lies in the company’s mission. Every purchase helps orphaned and destitute children in India. Fazl Socks donates 50% of its net profits to help provide them with food, shelter, education, and clothing. Fazl Socks also pays its workers fair wages so they can afford a better life. For more information visit www.shopfazl.com
Runamok Maple
A Vermont-based producer of infused, smoked and barrel-aged organic maple syrups. These products are sold in over 1,200 stores across the nation and online on its website or Amazon. The specialty syrups make a wonderful gift for anyone who loves food, cooking, just moved into a new home, a coworker or friend. Some gift options are: Runamok Maple’s Vermonter’s Collection Gift Box ($29.95): Includes (4) 60ml bottles of Whiskey Barrel-Aged Maple Syrup, Cardamom Infused Maple Syrup, Cinnamon+Vanilla Infused Maple Syrup, and Elderberry Infused Maple Syrup Runamok Maple Syrup + Stonewall Kitchen Farmhouse Pancake Mix ($24.95): Includes (1) 250ml bottle of Runamok organic maple syrup (variety of your choice!) and (1) Stonewall Kitchen’s Farmhouse Pancake and Waffle Mix (16 oz).
This lightweight cleansing oil transforms to a luxurious, creamy lather, gently removing surface debris while illuminating and hydrating the skin. Contains patented stable L-Ascorbic Acid, Omega-rich Baobab Oil, and rich exotic Tamanu Oil to hydrate all skin types. 4.2 fl oz, $18 at www.mychelle.com
Wilmington Parent | December 2018 | 23
SPECIAL SECTION: Celebrate the Holidays
The Razor X Cruiser is a skateboard with an electrifying kick, putting the control of a 125-watt, geared motor together with a lithium-ion battery to deliver electrifying skate action at speeds up to 10 mph. Everyone needs a power-assist at times, but if you think an electric skateboard is for – look what our pro-skateboarder engineers came up with. With carve and turn action, The RazorX Cruiser is a high-performance, high-quality skateboard, powered by an electric rear-wheel motor and controlled by a hand-held remote. With our soft-start kick activated technology, the motor ramps up slowly, reaching top speeds of 10mph, and slows to a stop with the pull of your thumb. Even when you’ve run out of battery juice, this board shifts into manual and performs like a normal skateboard without interrupting your fun flow. Hit your perfect cruising velocity with the variable-speed control on this versatile cruiser, then lean into the lithium-ion-powered, carve-and-turn skateboard action. 29.7” (754 mm) deck length and high-quality, 5-ply maple deck deliver a lightweight, responsive ride, perfect for cruising. For videos and more info, visit: www.razor.com
FAMILY TRAVEL
5 BEST WINTER DESTINATION IN EUROPE FOR FAMILIES
1. PARIS Paris is beautiful in the winter season, as it is filled with cozy cafes and festive events for families to enjoy. Slow down and savor your favorite museums and monuments — spending one-on-one time with Mona Lisa is worth the extra layers you may have to pack. What to Do: There’s no experience quite like visiting Paris with your children and European tour operator City Wonders’ Louvre Museum Highlights for Families is a 2-hour tour designed specifically for travelers with young children includes fun interactive visual aids to keep kids entertained. The expert guide will bring the masterpieces to life with amusing commentary and anecdotes created for kids. Plus, if a family still has interest, the ticket allows them to continue to explore the rest of the immeasurable museum on their own. Tickets from $75.11 per child/ $80.48 per adult.
2. LONDON Visiting London in the winter is quite fun and there are many entertaining activities to offer to families with children. From ice skating at Somerset House to Hyde Par Winter Wonderland, there is no shortage of events to try. What to Do: On European tour operator City Wonders’ Fully Guided Warner Bros. Studio Harry Potter Tour, families can enjoy a unique tour where an expert guide will reveal secrets and take guests through a behind-thescenes journeys of the original sets, props and costumes from all eight of the films. Guests can take a look inside the Gryffindor common room, walk along the famous cobbled street of Diagon Alley, visit the original Hogwarts Express locomotive and Platform 9 ¾, where they can pose with a luggage trolley as it disappears through the platform wall, Hagrid’s Hut and much more. Tickets from $36.13 per infant/ $148.25 per child/ $160.71 per adult.
3. IRELAND Families can enjoy the natural beauties of Ireland in the winter, with a drive or hike through the snow-covered countryside from the Ring of Kerry to Killarney National Park. The comfort-food winter cuisine is also sure to please, featuring warm stews, root vegetables and the famous seasonal Irish oysters. What to Do: Visit on a self-drive itinerary with Brendan Vacations. The Ireland expert organizes all aspects of the trip, perfect for the family to enjoy views of the Irish countryside including the iconic Cliffs of Moher, as well as historic Dublin and the medieval city of Kilkenny. Guests will also stay in the luxurious Adare Manor, a beautiful, traditional Irish manor with activities for the whole family like falconry, horseback riding and archery. The self-drive package includes a rental car, premier accommodations, and tour and dining highlights for prices starting at $1,455 per person
24 | December 2018 | Wilmington Parent
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4. PORTUGAL Unlike other European cities in winter, Portugal features blue skies and mild temperatures, especially along the Atlantic Coast in cities like Lisbon. Walking tours in the crisp winter weather are the perfect way for families to see historic cities like Evora and Coimbra and enjoy their sites without the peak season crowds. What to Do: Visit on Trafalgar’s brand-new Wonders of Portugal itinerary to explore the country’s gothic architecture and taste the fresh seafood in Lisbon, Evora, Viseu, Porto, Fatima and more. Families will marvel at the iconic suspension bridge spanning the River Tagus, explore UNESCO World Heritage Site Hieronymite Monastery and visit the famous Livraria Lello, Porto’s oldest book store with its beautiful red staircase. Prices start at $1,595 per person and include eight nights first class accommodations, 12 meals, on-trip transportation and tour highlights.
5. FRANKFURT There are few places in Europe more beautiful than Frankfurt on a crisp, cold, winter day. It’s a fantastic choice for families to visit during the holiday break, as they can take historical train rides, visit markets, go ice skating and more. What to Do: Uniworld Boutique River Cruises offers the Generations Collection on its Classic Christmas Markets December 15 sailing, which includes family-friendly amenities, kid-focused activities, cooking classes and more. For example, on this sailing families can go on a “Christmas with dinosaurs” tour, take a pretzel or gingerbread baking class, and learn about life in the medieval times. Each day on a Generation Collection cruise, Uniworld offers a few different excursions, so families can decide to explore together or split up based on age or interest. Better yet, the fare is 25% off for children ages 4-17.
6. AMSTERDAM Forget any trips you made to Amsterdam pre-children. Happily, there is far more to Amsterdam than coffee shops and the red light district; in fact, it’s the ideal place for kids. What to Do: Winter is a great time to visit and avoid the crowds, and when the canals freeze, you can strap on some ice skates and enjoy an activity that most tourists never experience. Once you’re ready to warm up, there are plenty of indoor activities. The Van Gogh Museum is unmissable, and for children of mid-elementary school age and up, the Anne Frank House offers unforgettable insight into WWII. Read this brave girl’s diary as a family ahead of the trip. Dutch food will please even the fussiest eaters (who doesn’t like pancakes and chips?) In fact Amsterdam may be the most easy-going family city destination in Europe. If you’ve got extra time, why not squeeze in a side trip to Efteling, Holland’s favorite theme park, and the best for ages under 8. This fairytale wonderland park is a sight to behold during the winter days, with thousands of lights, heart warming bonfires and great attractions.
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Wilmington Parent | December 2018 | 25
16th annual
Summer Camp Fair
Summer Campsw:
Reserve Your Booth No t and Receive a 5% Discoun Deadline 12/21/18
Saturday,
FEBRUARY 16, 2019 10am - 3pm
Mayfaire Town Center Next To H&M
FREE ADMISSION & FREE PARKING!
26 | December 2018 | Wilmington Parent
Camps for Every Interest and Age: Local • Residential • Sports • Day Camps • Science • Athletic • Drama • Eco • Art • Nature • Surfing • Magic • HorseBACKRIDING & Much More! Plus Demos www.wilmingtonparent.com
MIND AND BODY
NCBMX Series This is the very first contest in North America that will count towards BMX Freestyle athletes’ chances of getting to the Olympics! In 2020, BMX Freestyle for the first time in Olympic history, will be included in the Olympic Games! Competitors can pre-register online, pay their $30 entry fee and sign waivers. There is a VIP section for spectators that costs $50.00 per person per day where they can meet the athletes, be inside the fence, and get within feet of the course to watch this exciting event. There are 50 VIP tickets available for this event. In addition to UCI Elite Men’s & Women’s competition, NCBMX Series will have a pro/am contest for riders who are not competing for Olympic points. These competitors can enter for their chance to win prize money $$$, products and merchandise from our generous sponsors. Competitors can pre-register online, pay their $30 entry fee and sign waivers. Contest Info When: December 1st at 9am-9pm, and 2nd at 10am-3pm , 2018 Where: Greenfield Grind Skatepark | 302 Willard St. Wilmington, NC 28401 It will cost spectators $5.00 per day to watch this event live. Visit www.ncbmxseries.com for a complete schedule and to pre-register online.
Kings Grant Park Gets Makeover All the races…. The Frosty 5K & 1 Mile Run Dec 15 9am at The Pointe at Barclay in Wilmington benefits Ainsley’s Angels in Southeast North Carolina, an organization which promotes inclusions of persons with disabilities in all areas of life, and particularly in endurance sport events. $5 from each registration will go toward Hurricane Florence relief efforts, and all 5K participants receive a medal. www.ainsleysangels.org.
ticipants will be greeted by Santa’s Elves giving out a Commemorative Medal/Christmas Ornament. Bring a New, Unwrapped Toy for Toys for Tots and Get $5 Off Your Registration!
Carolina Beach Half Marathon & 5K Dec 29 8am. The Carolina Beach State Park Half Marathon & 5K is a locally owned and operated trail race with 13.1 and 3.1 mile courses in one of the most unique settings in North Carolina. With rolling pine laced single track along the coast, participants have tons of interesting terrain to take-in while they put out max effort for unique prizes. Proceeds benefit Friends of Pleasure Island State Parks, a non-profit that supports and promotes Carolina Beach State Park and Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. www.its-go-time.com
All Female Half Marathon Dec 2 7:30am. The course starts in the RiverLights Community – Marina Village, to the sweeping views of the Cape Fear River along the Riverlights Trail. The half marathon course runs not only along the brand new RiverLights paved multi-use trail system, but also along the beautiful crushed stone RiverLights Lake Loop. Long non-repeating sections of now closed “Old River Road” also helps ensure a traffic free running experience that only this section of Wilmington can provide. The Wilmington Women’s Half Marathon is southeastern North Carolina’s only all female half-marathon. Our aim is to exceed expectations for both experienced and first time road racers by creating a race – from the ground up – that meets the needs of women runners. Proceeds benefit The Rape Crisis Center of Coastal Horizons.
Dashing Through the Glow Dec 1 5pm. The start and finish line consists of a celebration with hot chocolate, coffee & cookies in the Santa Village. The course begins and ends in the RiverLights community in Wilmington, NC. The course is a flat course that winds through the living community showing off the beauty of the area. While on course, participants will be able to enjoy all of the Christmas lights. At the finish line, par-
Jingle Bell Run Dec 8 9am. Join us for one of the top 5Ks at Wrightsville Beach. The 10th Annual Jingle Bell 5K Run and Walk will be held on December 8th starting at Wrightsville Beach Museum and following The Loop, taking you over two bridges with spectacular views of marshes, historic cottages, and Banks Channel. Costumed runners of all ages (and pets!) compete for speed
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Have you heard the good news? Kings Grant Park got a makeover! First, they got a new basketball court. Then they took down the old shelter and built a new picnic shelter for birthday and community gathering needs. The new shelter has plenty of seating for 15-20 adults and is built in a better, more visible location next to the new playground! With elements like the Jax Pack, Bongo Steps and Orbit Climber, the new playground is a major improvement and tons of fun for all the neighborhood kids!
Wilmington Parent | December 2018 | 27
SCHOOL NOTES Wilmington Road Runner Scholarship The application period for the 2019 scholarship opens this month, December 2018. Visit www.wilmingtonroadrunners.wildapricot.org/WRRC-Scholarship for more information on the scholarship and to apply. In 2019 the Wilmington Road Runners Club (WRRC) will again award two $1,000 scholarships to high school seniors in the Cape Fear region.
Wilmington Parent Education Issue I know it may seem a little early to start worrying about the 2019/2020 school year, but if you start now, there will be no need to worry! We are excited to announce that in January, Wilmington Parent will present our special edition Education Issue. This issue will be packed with information about private, charter, boarding and alternative schools in our area. While resources dedicated to providing families with all they need to get started on their decision-making journey, and guidance on how to find that perfect fit for your child, will be our main focus. I hope everyone will pick up a copy, and visit our website at www.wilmingtonparent.com, for what I hope will be a stress-free, enjoyable exploration into all the educational opportunities the Cape Fear region has to offer!
Eligibility • Senior or graduation eligible status at a high school in Brunswick, Pender, or New • Hanover County. All public, private and parochial schools are eligible. • Member of the cross country and/or track team. • Planning to continue running after high school in any capacity. • Has not been awarded a full athletic or academic scholarship at a post-secondary institution. Selection Criteria • Passion for cross country or track. • Participation in any high school cross country or track and field event. • Involvement in extracurricular school activities where leadership or teamwork was demonstrated. (Note: The athlete’s GPA or financial need is not part of the selection criteria.) The application window will open in December 2018
Impossible Chef Raising Money for GLOW Academy The Girls Leadership Academy of Wilmington (GLOW) will welcome celebrity chef Robert Irvine in February to share his signature culinary style in support of the academy, according to a news release. As in past years, three events are scheduled: an exclusive dinner for up to 12 couples in a private home Feb. 7, and breakfast and lunch events to be held Feb. 8 at the Country Club of Landfall. Chef Irvine will plan the menus for each event and work with both Food Network and Wilmington chefs. Robert Irvine is best known for hosting some of the Food Network’s highest-rated shows, including Restaurant: Impossible and Dinner: Impossible. Irvine is the fourth Food Network star to visit Wilmington in support of GLOW Academy, North Carolina’s only single-gender public charter school. Sponsorship opportunities are available with benefits, including personalized and autographed books, meet-and-greet occasions, and premiere seating. Inquiries about sponsorships should be directed to Todd Godbey at GLOW Academy. Tables of 10 will go on sale Dec. 1, and individual tickets, if still available, will go on sale Jan. 2. A permanent campus for GLOW is under construction near Maides Park in Wilmington. For more information about GLOW, visit www.glowacademy.net.
NHC Board of Education Approves School Calendar Changes in Hurricane Aftermath The New Hanover County Board of Education voted to approve several changes to the 20182019 school calendars at the meeting held on November 7, 2018. These changes were needed due to instruction time lost due to Hurricane Florence. After receiving feedback from parents and teachers, the Board approved adding five instructional days to the end of the Traditional and Pre-K Calendars. The last day for traditional schools will be Thursday, June 13, 2018. In addition, the following dates will now be full days for students: December 20, December 21, February 22, April 5 and April 22. For information about a specific school, all revised calendars can be found at www.nhcs. net/calendars.htm.
28 | December 2018 | Wilmington Parent
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BIRTHDAY PHOTOS
Avery H. • 6yo
Vincent H. 12/11
Nina L. 12/22 • 4yo
Sienna S. 11/25 • 4yo
Gemma T.
12/6 • 2yo
Timothy C. 12/22 • 3yo
Aiyanah J. 11/30 • 8yo
Mabreigh Claire S. 12/26 • 3yo
Piper K. 11/11
Elizabeth-Ann T. 12/15 • 11yo
Braelynn J. 12/13 • 7yo
Simone S. 12/26 • 15yo DOES YOUR CHILD OR GRANDCHILD HAVE A BIRTHDAY IN JANUARY?
Reagan R. 12/4 • 3yo www.wilmingtonparent.com
Noelle S.
12/24 • 7yo
Rocco J. 11/13 • 8yo
Honor them by having their photo published in Wilmington Parent. Here's how: e-mail image (size not to exceed 1mb) to birthday@wilmingtonparent.com. Deadline for publication: 12/12. We have a limited number of spots, so if you sent your child’s picture and do not see it this issue, please check back next month!
Wilmington Parent | December 2018 | 29
The Easiest Place ds i K to Get Beer r Fo
is right next to the milk. One of the easiest places for kids to get alcohol is in your own kitchen. Take stock of your supply. No one can drink too much if they can't get it.
Keep Alcohol Out of the Hands of Kids.
Talk It Up! Lock It Up! Cape Fear Coalition for A Drug-Free Community www.capefearcoalition.org Funded by the Office of National Drug Control Policy and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.