FTL/Boca Dec. - Family Magazines
Transcription
FTL/Boca Dec. - Family Magazines
FORTLAUDERDALE•BOCA DECEMBER 2010 COMPLIMENTARY Covaerr St ists n Fi al 2010 Holiday Events WinterBreak Activities MOVIE REVIEWS • BOOK REVIEWS • LOCAL EVENT CALENDAR M A G A Z I N E M IAM I • F O R T LAU D E R DALE • B O CA Publisher Janet Jupiter [email protected] ������������������������������� �� ��������������������������������� ��������������������� Executive Editor Janet Jupiter Managing Editor Silvio Estrella Business Manager Gus McArcos Financial Director Fernando Black Staff Photographer Dawn McCarthy Contributors Jane Boursaw Julie Casey Laura Gray Meribeth Shank Advertising Sales Janet Jupiter 305.661.5514 [email protected] Graphics Kevin Bogusky Fusion Graphics Corporate Office 7045 SW 69th Avenue South Miami, FL 33143 Phone • 305.661.5514 Fax • 305.661.6621 [email protected] www.familymagazine.biz Circulation Audit by ���������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������ ������������������������������������������������������������������������ ������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������� ���������������������������������� � ����������������������� �������������������������������������������� 2 Family Magazine • www.familymagazine.biz • December 2010 Family Magazine is published twelve times per year by Miami Family Magazine Inc. It is distributed free of charge throughout Greater Miami & Greater Fort Lauderdale. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission. Family Magazine is not responsible for statements made by advertisers or writers. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of information we print, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from omissions or errors. All photography and letters sent to Family Magazine will be treated unconditionally, assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. For information on where to find Family Magazine, or how to become a distributor, call 305-661-5514 or e-mail to [email protected] Copyright 2010 by Miami Family Magazine, inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is forbidden. Comments and suggestions are welcome. December 2010 • www.familymagazine.biz • Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine 3 contents FEATURES 10 12 16 20 24 IN EVERY ISSUE 12 Tips For Healthy Holiday Eating Cover Star Finalists 10 Cool Toys for 2010 Winter Break Activiries Holiday Events 5 From the Publisher Cheers! 6 Restaurant Mom The Role of The Toy 8 Cinematters - DVD Film Fun Toy Story 3 9 Community News The Local Buzz 20 Dr. Ray’s Study Tips Get Hooked On Education 22 Movie Reviews Reel Life With Jane + Rating 23 Meribeth’s Book Reviews Tales of Holiday Happiness 28 Calendar of Events Where to Go, What to Do AD SECTIONS 19 Private Schools 20 Winter Break Activities 26 Party FORTLAUDERDALE•BOCA DECEMBER 2010 ON THE COVER COMPLIMENTARY Cover Star cutie, Giselle Kipes,3, also known as “Baby G” to her family, found a hollow in a tree at Flamingo Gardens. ������ � ���� ��� ������� 2010 �������� ������ ����������� ���������� ��������������������������������������������������� 1 ����������������������������� ��������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������ • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • �������������������� ������ ������������������������������ �� ������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������������� 4 Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine • www.familymagazine.biz • December 2010 ������� From The Publisher Another year has flown by and a lot has happened since January. My daughter, my little boobalah, Oakley and her daddy moved to Miami. I subsequently acquired their cat, Gus, who originated in Chile, he promptly peed on my new leather couch so he was permanently banished to the outdoors, then his fur got all knotted up and had to be shaved so he looked like a lion. My other cat, Fernando who, incidently, is also an acquisition from my daughter, has learned to cope with his companion and they both sit in the driveway 3 feet apart waiting for me to come home and feed them. I’ve become a part-time baby sitter, part-time seamstress and full-time shopa-holic for baby clothes. They’re so little and cute! Of course, while I’m shopping I pick up a few things for myself. What? I’m not just gonna sit in the dark! These days my life is filled with Theater, Tennis, and Toddlers-the three Ts. There were many firsts for little Oakley, she got her first tooth, walked her first step, spoke her first word “agua” (a bilingual baby), flew in a plane, met her Chilean Aunties (Tias) and calls me “Me”-that’s short for Grammi. I’d prefer something with a little more alliteration, but my daughter tells me I’ll have to take what I get. She has lots of new experiences ahead of her, as we all do. I haven’t heard her sing yet and maybe it’s because she doesn’t want to compete with me. Itsy bitsy spider is still her favorite and she doesn’t seem to notice that I can’t carry a tune. Speaking of learning and new experiences, this issue contains a Winter Break section and a private school directory. When school is out for the holidays this month there are lots of choices to expand your child’s life adventures. And there are family adventures waiting to be experienced. South Florida has a plethora of Holiday activities lined up in our Holiday Event Guide just waiting for you to pounce on them like little elves. Have a fun and healthy holiday however you celebrate and remember there’s Festivus for the rest of us! See you in the New Year! “I’m afraid of the FCAT.” Poor FCAT scores can lead to retention and even denial of a high school diploma. So if you or your child fears the upcoming FCAT, call today and ask about our Special FCAT Prep Package. Sometime in the past your child didn’t learn specific reading or math skills the other students did learn. Until your child learns those skills, your child’s situation will just get worse, even if the school has extra FCAT test taking instruction. Since 1977, Huntington has been helping students who struggle with homework, can’t keep up with classwork and get poor grades. We pinpoint your child’s academic strengths and weaknesses and tailor an individualized program just for your child. Just a few hours per week after school, all grade levels. HELP! Call today about our Special FCAT Prep Package. If this school year has not started the way you hoped, you can start now to make it the best school year ever for your child and family. Call today. Waiting for more poor report cards or poor FCAT scores just puts the problem off until it’s harder and maybe too late to fix. Reading • Writing • Math • Spelling Phonics • Study Skills • H.S. Entrance Exam Prep College SAT and ACT Prep • FCAT Prep Aventura Coral Gables Coral Springs (305) 792-2535 (305) 443-1222 (954) 752-5401 Doral/Sweetwater Kendall Pembroke Pines East (305) 552-1110 (305) 598-0686 (954) 436-3330 Pembroke Pines West Plantation Pompano Beach (954) 431-4443 (954) 474-4144 (954) 782-9880 © 2010 Huntington Learning Centers, Inc. Individually Owned & Operated. December 2010 • www.familymagazine.biz • Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine 5 NATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES �� The Role of “The Toy” By Julie Casey Intrusive or necessary? That is the question and the answer usually falls in one camp or the other in the discussion of restaurants giving toys to kids. In San Francisco last month, city officials passed a ban on toys in kids’ meals that do not meet nutritional guidelines; specifically that the meal must be less than 600 calories, include a fruit AND vegetable, and no soda. The ban goes into effect December 2011. It may surprise you that San Francisco is not the first locality to place such a ban, just one of the biggest. Who is the ultimate decision maker? Government or parent? Decision Maker: The Parent Is it really the toy that entices the kid to want the “happy” meal? When Jon Stewart recently interviewed actor Harrison Ford inquiring about the intrigue of the toy to compel parents to “drive through monsoons” to acquire said item, Ford quickly questioned Stewart’s parenting skills. It made for fun TV fodder but underneath is the crux of the recent toy debate: are the toys really the reason parents choose one kid’s meal over another? According to most parents, a resounding “No!” Many kids, including mine, don’t ask to go to a specific restaurant because of the toy. Every once in a while there is an exception, like for a specific movie, but in that case my child doesn’t end up eating the food – he truly did just want the toy. After watching this story on the news with me recently, my four-year-old astutely proclaimed, “They (McDonald’s) would never give me a pencil!” He may be right but at the end of the day the toy doesn’t matter. It is our role as parents to make well-balanced decisions for our children especially when it comes to their nutrition and most of us do not make this decision based on a toy. Decision Maker: Government In the camp supporting the San Francisco decision is a combination of both parents with kids and adults without kids who feel too many parents are not making balanced food decisions for their children and that big companies are using toys to lure kids in without regard to nutritional values – only about the almighty dollar. With the rise in childhood obesity, it is natural to try and make a connection between the two. According to the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, the CDC, childhood obesity has more than tripled in the past 30 years. However, there are more significant factors that contribute to the obesity epidemic including decreases in physical activity and school lunches. The restaurant industry, especially fast food, takes the brunt of the blame. There are citizens who feel that government must step in to curb childhood obesity and prevent companies from targeting children through things like toys in their meals. Research tells us that parents are not choosing a place to feed the family because of a toy. The deciding factors are more likely to be: value, location, good service, family friendly atmosphere, activities, and menu choices. If restaurants address these opportunities, including healthier menu selections which parents have been requesting for some time now, taxpayer dollars wouldn’t need to be used to ban toys. In fact, if all of the factors and people related to the increase in childhood obesity came together in a happy world of working together, would we even be having this discussion? Go to the Family Magazine website www.familymagazine.biz and click on the Restaurant Mom icon which will take you to the blog at MyKidsPlate where you may submit your own recommendations for a great Grown-Ups Night Out. Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine Automotive WANTED JAPANESE MOTORCYCLES KAWASAKI,19701980, Z1-900, KZ900, KZ1000, H2-750, H1-500, S1-250, S2-250, S2-350, S3-400. CASH PAID. 1-800-772-1142. 1-310-721-0726. Autos Wanted DONATE YOUR CAR. FREE TOWING. “Cars for Kids”. Any condition. Tax deductible outreachcenter.com, 1-800-597-9411 Electronics DIRECT to home Satellite TV $19.99/mo. FREE installation, FREE HD-DVR upgrade. New customers - No Activation Fee! Credit/Debit Card Req. Call 1-800-795-3579 Employment GREAT PAYING... Frac Sand Hauling Work in Texas. Need Big Rig,Pneumatic Trailer & Blower. 817-769-7621 Health & Fitness FDA APPROVED VIAGRA, Testosterone, Cialis. Free Brochures. 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Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial aid if qualified. Call 800-494-3586 www.CenturaOnline.com FREE HD for LIFE! DISH Network. $24.99/mo. Over 120 Channels. Plus $500 BONUS! Call 1-800-915-9514. AIRLINES ARE HIRING - Train for high paying Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified - Housing available CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance (866)453-6204. Real Estate Land liquidation 20 acres $0 down, $99/mo. Only $12,900 Near growing El Paso, TX Guaranteed Owner Financing. No credit check! Money back guarantee. Free Maps-Pictures! 866-257-4555 www.sunsiteslandrush.com ***FREE Foreclosure Listings*** OVER 400,000 properties nationwide. Low down payment. Call now 800-250-2043. Whose Decision Is It? 6 Adoption PREGNANT? CONSIDERING ADOPTION? You choose from families nationwide. LIVING EXPENSES PAID. Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions. 866-413-6292, 24/7 • www.familymagazine.biz • December 2010 Timeshares SELL/RENT YOUR TIMESHARE FOR CASH!!! Our Guaranteed Services will Sell/ Rent Your Unused Timeshare for CASH! Over $78 Million Dollars offered in 2009! www.sellatimeshare.com (800) 882-0296 Reader Advisory: The National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the above classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it is illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars. Toll free numbers may or may not reach Canada. ����� ���� �������� ������ ������������������ �������� �������������� ���������������� IMPROVE YOUR �� ����������� ������ ���������������� �������� ��� GRADES NOW! ��������������������������������������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������������������� ��������� ����������������������������������������� �� ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������� �� ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������ ������������������������������������������������ � � ������������������������� ���������� ������ ������������� ������������ ������� �������� ��� � � ��������� ��������� ����� ������������������������� ���� ����������� ������� �������� ���� ������������� ������� ����� ��� ��������� ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� �������� ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������� �������������������� ������������������������ ���������������������������� ����������������������������������� ��������������������������� �������������������������������� ���������������������������������������� ���������� ������������������������������ ������������ ����������������� ������������ ���������������� ����������� �������� ���� ������������ �������� ������������������������� ����������� ������������ �� �������� � ����������������������������� ���������� ���������� �������� � ���������������������� ��� ��� ������������������� ���������������������� ���� ��� ������������������������ ���� ���� ������������ ������������ ��� ������ ����������� Removable ������� �� � � Sections ���������������� �Mesh ������������������ ��������� ������������������������� Factory Direct �������� ������������������� � Prices ����������������� ���� �������������� ��� ��������������������� ��������������������� ������������������������������������ ��������������������������������������� ����������������������� ������������������ ������������ ��������������������������� �������������� ������� ������������ ��������������������� ���������������������������� ��������������������� �������������� ������������������������������������ ��������������������������������������� ����������������������������������� ��������������������������������������� ������ ����������������������� ��������� ������������������������� ������������������������� ��������������������������������������� ����������������������� ������������������� ��� ���� 786-470-7402 ������������ Offer expires 12/31/10 ������������������������� ������� � �������������������� ������������������������������� ������������ ��������������������������������������� ����������������������� ������������������� ��������� ������� ������������ Fla.����������������������� Code Approval ������������������ ��������������������� ���� ���������� ������� ��������� ������ ����� ����������������� ��������������������� ��������������������� ������������������������������������ ������������������������� ��������������������������������������� � ����������������������� ������������������ ���������������������������� ���������������������������� �������������������� � �������������������� ������������ �� ������ ���� December 2010 • www.familymagazine.biz • Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine 7 DVD Film Fun © 20th Century Fox & Walden Media, LLC. . By Laura Gray Sassy Sister Stirs Up Strife After months of begging and pleading, your daughter is now the proud owner of a brand new puppy. She’s madly in love with the little fur ball – until he shreds her new sweater. And gobbles up her pancakes. And has an accident on her bedroom rug. She quickly realizes that being a pet owner isn’t as easy as she thought. Looking for a way to help her family, Ramona asks Beezus to help her enter a competition for a national advertising campaign. The winner becomes the high-paid poster child for a peanut butter ad. But tomboy Ramona has trouble pulling off the “princess” style the company is seeking. She loses the competition, but is consoled by Beezus. Ramona’s other money-making schemes also fail. Once her puppy is in obedience school, his rambunctiousness is curtailed. Your daughter learns how to train him to behave. Before long, he’s back to being the darling little pup she always wanted – at least most of the time. Finally, the Quimbys are forced to sell their home. No one is happy about it, but Ramona is the most upset. When the real estate agent shows the house to some prospective buyers, Ramona bursts in the door, runs upstairs – and falls through the ceiling. A distraught Ramona helps convince her parents to find a way to stay in the family home. Beezus and the rest of the family reaffirm their love for Ramona, despite her irritating antics. After all, that’s what you do when you love someone. With some hard work, she learns that loving someone (or something) means accepting his annoying traits along with the endearing ones. That’s the conclusion that the Quimby family comes to, as well, in Ramona and Beezus, now available on DVD. Enjoy this entertaining film with your family and then discuss it with our Talk Together points. Later, you can get “Stuck On You” in our Play Together activity. Talk Together Ramona and Beezus, based on the bestselling children’s book series by Beverly Cleary, focuses on two sisters and their close-knit family. The Quimbys find their household turned upside down when Dad loses his job. Mom must return to the workplace, leaving Dad in charge of 15-yearold Beezus (Ramona’s nickname for Beatrice), 8-year-old Ramona and baby Roberta. Ramona overhears her parents discussing their money woes and decides to help out. Ramona’s imagination is sometimes out of control. Which was your favorite of her wild daydreams? Why does her dad encourage her to dream? Ramona’s wacky ideas often cause trouble for other people. Why does this happen? How do her family and friends respond? How would you react? Plan a family movie night this fall! Check out our archives at www.Cinematters.com and get some great ideas for fun with your favorite films. 8 Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine • www.familymagazine.biz • December 2010 Play Together: Stuck On You You will need: • Masking tape or duct tape • Slips of paper • Pens or pencils Distribute 10 slips of paper to each player. Have each person write five positive traits (such as funny, creative or athletic) and five negative traits (such as messy, picky eater or always late) that describe the person on his or her left. Mix up the slips and spread them facedown on the floor (make sure it’s a clear, open space). To play, one person is “It.” Wrap several strips of masking tape, sticky side out, around “It’s” chest. “It” then has five seconds to roll across the floor, collecting as many slips of paper as will stick to the tape. No hands allowed! At the end of five seconds, another player removes each slip one by one. If the group agrees that the trait describes “It” accurately, “It” gets five points. If a trait does not apply, deduct two points from “It’s” score. Reuse the slips and let each player take a turn as “It.”The player with the most points wins. And everyone learns the importance of loving each other, no matter what! Community News BROWARD’S BIKE SHARING PROGRAM Broward Commissioners approved a contract with B-Cycle, LL.C., to manage and operate a bike sharing program as a means of reducing traffic congestion by providing an inexpensive way to get around town. The bicycles will be located at various station kiosks throughout Broward County. To access the public bikes, users can swipe a credit card or pre-purchased membership card. The rented bicycles can be returned to any kiosk. Bike share kiosks will open in Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood & Pompano Beach in the next 6 months. Initially, 200 identifiable blue bikes will be purchased and available for public use. The program is expected to expand to 500 bikes over a 5-year period. “This is a no-brainer for tourists who can rent the bikes to go from the beach to dinner downtown,” said Vice Mayor Sue Gunzburger. Similar bike sharing programs are operating in Denver, Des Moines & Washington, D.C., & are quite popular throughout Europe. “When you put bikes out there that are easily available for short trips, people use them,” said Commissioner Kristin Jacobs. “This is a baby step for us. We have a long way to go. To make this successful, we’ll need more than 200 bikes to get around a county the size of Broward. At some point we’ll have to expand and, in order to grow, people will need to feel safe on the roadway.” ���������������������� NEW SPECIES OF WHITEFLY CONFIRMED IN BROWARD COUNTY A new species of whitefly, the gumbo limbo spiraling whitefly (Aleurodicus rugioperculatus), has been confirmed in Broward Co. According to Commercial Horticulture Agent Michael Orfanedes of UF-IFAS Broward County Extension Education, this whitefly differs from the ficus whitefly that devastated so many of the county’s hedges and canopy trees during the past several years. Whitefly Adult The gumbo limbo spiraling whitefly is a larger, slower-moving insect capable of attacking a wider range of landscape plants than the ficus whitefly. Among the plants vulnerable are gumbo limbo, live oak, Calophyllum, black olive, mango, a variety of palms (including coconut palm), and even certain shrubs such as copperleaf, cocoplum, and wax myrtle. The host list is expected to lengthen as more plants are identified with infestations. The telltale symptoms of an infestation of gumbo limbo spiraling whitefly are the eggs that are laid in a spiral pattern on the undersides of the leaves, and the accumulation of flock, a white, waxy substance that coats the eggs and young crawlers. If populations build to high enough levels, says Orfanedes, infested plants can become heavily coated with flock and appear white. Gumbo limbo spiraling whitefly also excretes a sticky substance called honeydew, on which sooty mold fungus grows. Honeydew and sooty mold can create problems when they accumulate on car windshields, pool decks, and patio furniture beneath infested overhanging trees. Foliage and other surfaces coated with honeydew and sooty mold will appear black. According to Dr. Catharine Mannion, an entomologist who researches whiteflies at the UF-IFAS Tropical Research and Education Center in Homestead, gumbo limbo spiraling whitefly will not cause the massive defoliation that was seen with the ficus whitefly, although plants with heavy infestation may suffer damage or leaf drop. The insect is native to Central America, Whitefly Eggs Photos: H. Glenn, UF/IFAS, where it has been generally considered a sporadic nuisance Tropical Research & Education Center, Homestead pest. In South Florida, gumbo limbo spiraling whitefly was first found in Miami-Dade Co. last year. It is expected to spread to other South Florida counties. Orfanedes notes that early detection and intervention are key to managing this pest. Plant owners with small plants may be able to control it by thoroughly washing their plants with a strong stream of water and/or by using insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, with repeat applications as needed. Complete coverage is essential, including the undersides of leaves where egg laying and development occur. For landscapes with larger plants or plants that are heavily infested, another option is the use of labeled systemic insecticides that can be injected into the tree, sprayed on the trunk, or applied to the soil as a drench or in granular form. Potential users should be aware that most pesticides are not labeled for use on fruit trees or other edible landscape plants. Photo Credits: H. Glenn, UF/IFAS, Tropical Research and Education Center, Homestead. M A G A Z I N E M IAM I • F O R T LAU D E R DALE • B O CA DVD Giveaway Enter to Win COMPLIMENTARY DVD Despicable Me On Blu-ray And DVD December 14 To register to win & to download a Free Despicable Me Coloring/ Activity Sheet log on to Visit us at: www.FamilyMagazine.biz M A G A Z I N E MIAMI • FORT LAUDERDALE No purchase necessary. First come first served. While supplies last. Must be 18 years of age to enter. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE. For additional information on gumbo limbo spiraling whitefly, go to www.broward.org/parks and click on the Extension Education button, or call 954-357-5270. Submit community news via email to [email protected] December 2010 • www.familymagazine.biz • Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine 9 12 Tips For Healthy Holiday Eating By Denise Morrison Yearian Parents who have their plates full with holiday hubbub may find it a challenge to eat healthy. Taking a spin off the “Twelve Days of Christmas” song, following are a dozen suggestions on how to maintain a healthy end-of-year eating regimen. 1. Supply and demand. Stock the refrigerator with healthy, ready-to-eat items such as low-fat string cheese, hardboiled eggs, lean turkey and yogurt. Freeze grapes and sectioned oranges, and keep an abundant supply of raw cut-up vegetables on hand. Put these foods in a visible location and use clear containers so they can be easily spotted when you need a quick bite to eat. 2.Scout out smorgasbords. Survey the buffet line before going through with your plate so you know what the offerings are. Then be selective. Choose foods that are special— ones you don’t normally have access to or seasonal items rarely available. Exclude things you can have anytime. Pretend you’re on a tasting mission for the best offerings and sample these in small quantities. 10 Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine • 3.Size matters. To help maintain portion size, choose a small plate or use a regular-sized one and put spaces between items. Don’t pile or stack food either. Use your fist as a portion-size measure for veggies and starches and the palm of your hand for servings of meat. Also avoid eating directly from a snack bowl; use a plate to monitor serving size. 4.Low-down on liquids. Drink water before you go to an event and alternate with alcoholic or high-caloric beverages. This will keep you hydrated, feeling full and slow consumption. If you want something festive, go for sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime. Most important, moderate alcohol intake as it is high in calories and can increase your appetite and lower your willpower. 5.On-the-job indulgences. Watch out for high-calorie treats others bring into work. Give yourself permission to enjoy one goodie and eat it mindfully. Keep a personal stash of veggies and fruit on hand to curb future cravings. Make a pact with coworkers to bring in one healthy snack each week. 6.Rein in ravenous appetites. If you are hungry before a holiday gathering eat a light snack beforehand so you’ll make better food choices when you’re there. You don’t want to kill your appetite; you want to be in control when you reach the buffet or dining table. Don’t try to save calories by skipping a meal either. It’s a sure-fire way to overeat. www.familymagazine.biz • December 2010 7.Dabbling with dips. Cream-based dips and sauces can be high in fat and calories. If you want to indulge put a small dollop on your plate and dab food into it rather than pouring it over the top. Make it leaner by using reduced-calorie ingredients. Or go with salsa or vinagrettes. They are packed with flavor but have fewer calories. 8.Keep socializing central. Eat slowly, stop when you are satisfied, move away from the table and socialize. Take a walk, have a round of basketball, play games or just talk. Remember you are attending the gathering to be with others, not just eat. 9.Eating on the run. When you are shopping or running errands bring along a small snack rather than relying on fast food chains. Or do your homework and check out nutritional information online so you can make a lower-calorie selection at these establishments. It’s better to make a good selection from there than to not eat at all. 10.Think fast! The holiday rush may make it hard to plan and execute quick nutritious meals. When you have time, make a list of fast, healthy dinners your family enjoys, post it in a visible location and have the ingredients on hand so you don’t have to give much thought to what to prepare. 11.Baker’s choice. Brush your teeth, chew gum or sip tea so you won’t be tempted to dip into the batter and dough while you’re baking. Or eat a little something before you begin. Wait until you have the finished product—a cookie or bar—and have just one. Lighten up recipes where you can by substituting applesauce for oil, egg whites for eggs & skim milk for whole. 12.Calculate and compensate. If you overeat during one meal go lighter on the next and increase your exercise. Better yet, plan ahead. Think out scenarios of where you are going to be and the types of foods offered there. Then cut back on desserts and carbs a few days prior to the event so you can have that treat without feeling guilty. Most important, don’t deprive yourself or you may binge. Moderation is key. Denise Morrison Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother of three children. MORE QUICK TIPS • Manage and maintain. Trying to diet during the holiday season may lead to discouragement. Focus instead on maintaining your current weight and practice healthy lifestyle choices you already have intact. • Log-a-rhythm. One component to successful dieting is to keep a food journal. Write down what you eat so you have a record of when you had that cookie, fruitcake or eggnog. This will help you plan and make good choices. • Comfort and joy. Rather than leaning on comfort food to cope with holiday stress, find other outlets to help you calm down: read a book, listen to music, take a bath, call a friend or go for a walk or run. Also don’t confuse fatigue and hunger. Get at least seven hours of sleep each night so you have energy for these busy days. • Get moving. Try to maintain an exercise regimen throughout the holidays. Park a little further from public buildings, walk once around the mall before beginning your shopping or get up twenty minutes early to take a run. Just because you’re watching your weight doesn’t mean you have to forgo the festivities. Here are a few healthy mocktail recipes to keep you in the celebratory spirit. RUDOLPH’S RED GRANITA 1/2 cup boiling water, 1/2 cup sugar or Splenda, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 3 cups sliced strawberries (blended smooth). Stir first four ingredients together. Add strawberries. Pour mixture into a baking pan and freeze until ice forms around the edges. Stir so ice is moved to the center. Return to freezer for 30 minutes. Continue to remove and stir every 30 minutes until flaky ice crystals form. HO-HO-HO CITRUS MINT MOJITO 8 fresh mint leaves, l lime juice from half a lime, 1 teaspoon sugar or Splenda, 3 ounces pineapple juice, 4 ounces sparkling water, slice of lime. Crush mint leaves with lime juice, pineapple juice and sugar. Add ice and fill glass with sparkling water. Garnish with slice of lime. HOT BLOODY MARY 6 ounces tomato juice, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 3 drops hot sauce, slice of lime, ground black pepper, celery stick. Mix first four ingredients in a tall glass. Squeeze in lime juice. Add a dash of pepper. Pour over ice and garnish with celery stick. E N I Z A BOCA G • E L A A RD M LAU D E • FORT MIAMI r e v Co ar St ists l a n Fi Ramses Alzuphar, 2 Ethan Askin, 4 Nicole Barroso, 6 2010 Felipe Blanco, 2 Cody Boisvert, 4 Cole Boisvert, 4 Lisa Cimino, 14 Bella Coll, 3 mos Grace Brightman, 4.5 Johnny Bullis, 12 Noel Candelario, 2 Mia Christ, 5 Mia Farace, 9 mos Eli Fassberg, 2 Dylan Fayad, 3 Jaxon Fayad, 5 Kevin Guzman, 4 Christopher Haslam, 2.75 Jillian Heinish, 7 Duriel Holley Jr. 12 Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine • www.familymagazine.biz • December 2010 Matthew Feirstein, 5.5 Enzo Iapichino, 2 Mia Fernandez, 3 Vinny Iapichino, 8 mos Christian Barthelemy, 9 Lyonel Barthelemy, 6 Victoria Batista, 3 Anakin Bennet, 3 Owen Billic, 15 mos Daniel Blanco, 3 Colin Boisvert, 5.5 Conner Boisvert, 5 .5 Katia Borden, 4 Lea-Marie Bouthier, 4 Bailey Braun, 6 Estefano Brightman, 3 Amelia Corbo, 16 mos Madison Cortes, 9 Veronica Dacko, 4 Joseph “JoJo” Daniele, 3 Brady Dittoe, 4mos Faye Evans, 5 Marco Ferri, 2.5 Chase Garey, 6 Sebastian Gerstein, 5 Danica Gottesman, 5 Noah Gottesman, 4 Chase Isrel, 15 mos Olivia Jean-Baptiste, 5 Sarah Ledezma, 9 Nikita Leskovykh, 3.5 Gaby Little, 6 Dallas Gerstein, 3 Alexander Kolychkine, 4 Continued on page 14 December 2010 • www.familymagazine.biz • Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine 13 Katie Little, 4 Pharicka Louis, 5 Matthew, Magalhaes, 3 Peyton Marrone, 2 Nicholas Martinez, 5 Alexis McKenna, 7 Omario Morris, 5 Stormee Myatt, 4 Jack Olson, 1.5 Jenna Olson, 3.5 Destiney Ortiz, 13 mos Haley Ortiz, 4 Jonathan Poulin, 10 Lily Quaid, 9 Kylie Ray, 4 Gabriella Rezende, 6 Stephanie Rezende, 3 Jonathan Rivera, 10 mos Briana Rodonis, 2.5 Isabelle Rodriguez, 6 Alex Sequete, 3 Evan Sequete, 14 mos Laila Smiley, 8 Kristina Tokar, 12 ote for your v to t e rg fo ’t n o D Finalist r ta S r e v o C te ri o fav agazine.biz. at www.FamilyM Ashley Williams, 7 Justin Williams, 2.5 14 Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine Jordan Zelch, 9.5 Daniela Yanes, 6 • www.familymagazine.biz • December 2010 E N I Z A C O B • E L A T LAU D E R D MIAMI • FOR M A G A Cullen Mitvalsky, 12 Dylan Mitvalsky, 7 Sydney Moed, 3.75 Maya Monsalve, 4 Heather Morales, 3 Maeghan Morin, 11 Harley Ortiz, 1 Seanna Osborne, 3 Alex Peterson, 3.5 Malonni Phillips, 3 .5 Cara Pitkins, 4 Narleesha Pomare, 8 Christian Riveron, 7 Ricardo Riveron, 7 Olivia Roberts, 6 Piere Roberts, 4 Liberty Robertson, 2 Andre Rodonis, 7.5 Princeton Torres, 2.5 Kemet Turner, 10 mos Moriyah Upshaw, 7 mos Amanda Vickers, 7 Jocelyn Walters, 12 Alexa Whitbourne, 14 mos Who will be our next Cover Star? Vote for your favorite on our website, www.familymagazine.biz. There will be 3 lucky winners and 3 lucky runners-up. Your votes and the votes of 3 top modeling and talent agencies will determine the winners. They are Martin & Donalds, The Green Agency and World of Kids. Watch for the January issue to find out who the winners are. It will be a tough decision for the judges because we have so many great choices. The suspense is killing you?! Too bad, you have to wait. Winners will not be announced until the January issue hits the stands. We will also post the winners on Blabber Mouth, our weekend newsletter and on our website so you can tell your friends and relatives about it. If you don’t get Blabber Mouth, you’d best sign up by emailing [email protected] and put “Blab Me” in the subject line. After the winners are published, we will call them to schedule photography sessions throughout the year. Good luck to all, thanks for participating in the contest. December 2010 • www.familymagazine.biz • Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine 15 1 Radica: Puppy Tweets $29.99 If you are looking for the paw-fect stocking stuffer for your dog loving family and friends, then look no further. With Puppy Tweets, an electronic dog accessory, owners can now follow their dog’s everyday activities via Twitter. Owners simply have to attach the Puppy Tweets tag to their dog, connect the included USB receiver, download easyto-use software then create a Twitter account for the dog. Puppy Tweets captures the dog’s level of activity and barking and translates that to a humorous or poignant tweet that’s sure to make the owner smile. If Sparky’s hyper and running around the house, he might tweet, “I finally caught that tail I’ve been chasing and…OOUUUCCHH!” Owners can follow furry friends via computer or smart phone. Puppy Tweets works with PC and MAC and the Twitter. 5 Crafty Kids Playhouses 2 Toy Story 3 Buzz Lightyear Deluxe Action Wing Pack $49.99 Once kids slip into the backpack-styled design, they push a button on the chest plate and – ZAP – the wings automatically pop out, the wingtips light up and Buzz starts speaking his signature phrases. When tipped horizontally, the Wing Pack’s sensors know kids are “flying” and makes corresponding flying sounds! When coming in for a landing, just push a button and the wings contract for a perfect “touch down” so every Buzz kid superhero can continue saving the planet and going to “infinity and beyond!” Ages: 6+ Rainy days and Mondays were made for an arts & crafts project! Designed by dads for their sturdiness, these small white cardboard structures are perfect to play with dolls or Whiskers (meow) for hours of endless creativity and imagination. Both the Creation Cottage and Shuttle Imagination are made of 100% recycled material and await a child’s finishing touch of crayons or markers to make it a one-of-a-kind playhouse. Each Craft Model will come with six washable, non-toxic, jumbo markers to get the creative juices flowing. Winner of Tillywig 2010 Top Fun Award, Creative Child 2010 Seal of Excellence & The National Parenting Center Spring 2010 Seal of Approval. Cool To 20 6 Wild Creations’ Classic EcoAquarium $30 Creation Cottage • $19.95 The Wild Creations EcoAquarium comes with its own ecosystem - colorful filtration rocks, a plant and large decorative rock and base, two frogs, and a year’s supply of frog food. No extra filtration system necessary. Simple instructions for set up and care are included. Ages: 5–15 yrs. Parents’ Choice Approved Award Shuttle Imagination • $22.95 16 Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine • www.familymagazine.biz • December 2010 3 oys for 010 HABA’s Bucket With Valve $24 This is a fabric-yes, fabric--bucket with handles for transporting water from the hose to the sandbox or from the ocean to the sandcastle. The bucket also features a plastic, easy-to-work spout at the bottom that allows children to control how and where they dispense the water. Testers decorated sand “cakes,” wrote their names in the sand, and even watered the tomato plant seedlings in the back yard. This collapsible bucket fits easily into the family beach bag Ages 18 mos.+. Parents’ Choice Silver Honor. Splash Bombs Balls by Primetime Toys are like water balloons only better. These colorful foam balls are covered with a durable nylon/cloth covering. Soak it and toss (okay, aim) at the nearest kid or grownup. And then wait for your turn to get it! Ages 4+. Parents’ Choice Fun Stuff Award 8 7 4 Prime Time Toys’ The Original Splash Bombs $5.99 The Key to a Magical Christmas $19.99 Bring the Magic back to Christmas this year. The excitement starts when the family gathers to read the original storybook “The Key to a Magical Christmas”. After recording your child’s Christmas wish on the Magic Christmas Key, light up the Magic Key and hang it on your front door to guide Santa to your home. Santa then leaves a personal message for your child! Your Magic Key literally captures this precious time to be enjoyed for years to come as a family ornament and keepsake. For more details search Facebook for “The Key To a Magical Christmas”. 9 Howard B. Wigglebottom Book Series $15 each Picture books for children 4–8 deal with various issues. including bullying, anger, listening and more. The authors objective is to teach important skills to children using humor and real situations. iParenting Media Award Winner, National Parenting Publications Honors Award. www.wedolisten.com The Magic School Bus - Solar Energy to the Rescue $19.99 Designed for children 5 and up, the Solar Energy to the Rescue kit includes almost everything to perform sixteen age-appropriate experiments to help children better understand the concept of capturing the sun’s energy to create electricity as well as how greenhouse gases work and can negatively impact the earth. Ages 5+. Parents’ Choice Recommended Award 10 CitiBlocs’ Skyline 200 Piece Hot & Cool Colors $43.99 the 200 piece set is a wonderful way to get the enthusiastic builder started building simple, medium-sized structures. Start low and wide, and then stack them high and narrow. Whatever your preference, the Citiblocs 200 piece set will keep the enthusiastic builder flexing his or her imagination while developing fine motor skills. All Citiblocs Wooden Building Sets are compatible and interchangeable. Blocks made of New Zealand Radiata Pine. Ages 3+. Parents’ Choice Recommended Award December 2010 • www.familymagazine.biz • Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine 17 Pesky Preschool Germs By Laura Collins Having over 20 years experience in the child care industry, the same question is always asked, “Are your preschool rooms cleaned thoroughly?” This is usually followed by, “my child went to another school and was sick constantly.” “I am looking for a new school.” Being an operator of a preschool, I can tell you that this is a natural consequence to being around a group of children. It does not mean that the classrooms are not disinfected or cleaned. Your child is exposed to a whole new environment when he goes to daycare, and with any group of children there are going to be germs. If your child has not been in a preschool/daycare setting before, he may have a fairly low resistance to common ailments like a cold or flu. Every child’s immune system is different and some may take longer than others to gain resistance to these common illnesses. Once the immune system has built up some resistance to outside germs, you should find that your child is getting sick less and less. Having a child that is constantly sick is not easy, but sometimes this early exposure to these germs can actually help your child become immune to certain illnesses in later years. 18 Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine I am speaking from my own experience, as I had a 29 week premature baby. He was very weak and needed to stay in the hospital for 3 months. My husband and I stayed at home with him for his first year because we were scared that he was susceptible to illness. He began preschool when he turned one and like most other parents, I battled with a child that was sick all the time. It seemed like I was constantly at the doctor for bronchitis, common cold, ear infections, or RSV, etc… the list goes on. Being that I worked at the school, I knew all steps were being taken to clean and disinfect the classrooms. • www.familymagazine.biz • Unfortunately, I had a child like most others that had to build his immune system. Over the years, thankfully, his illnesses became less and less. By the time he entered pre-kindergarten, I don’t even think he was absent more than two times for being sick. Now, my son is 8 years old and it is unbelievable how resistant he is to common colds, etc… if he gets sick once a year I am shocked!! It is not always easy to have to stay home from work to care for a sick child. I know the frustration you feel when you get those phone calls from the school informing you that your child needs to be picked up due to a runny nose or tummy ache. Always make sure your preschool/day care provider keeps up with the cleaning and disinfecting of the classrooms and also has the children frequently washing their hands, but keep in mind that even with these precautions your little one may still get those frequent sniffles and coughs! Laura Collins is a local mom & the owner and operator of Bright Future Learning Center in Coral Springs. December 2010 Private School Directory Broward Campus, 4650 SW 61 Ave, Ft. Lauderdale. 954-581-8222. www.kentwoodprepcommunity.com. Palm Beach Campus, 6210 South Congress Ave, Lantana. 561-649-6141. www.kentwoodpalmbeach.com Montessori Schools Here is a listing to help when exploring the options for your child’s education. Private Schools often offer more individual attention, expect closer parent involvement, and have higher academic standards, religious teaching and a more balanced program of extracuricular activities. Check out some of these local private schools & pre-schools and see for yourself. American Preparatory Academy APA gives students the tools and the taste of success to build their self-esteem, confidence, and the desire to strive for excellence. McKay and StepUp Scholarships available. Call for a tour. 4850 S. Pine Island Rd. Davie. 954-434-8936. www.apaacademy.com Weston Christian Academy Established in 1995, Weston Christian Academy serves students of Christian families from 3-year-old kindergarten through the 8th grade. The school is Bible based, academically challenging, and focuses on developing the whole child. 1420 Indian Trace, Weston. 954- 349-9224. westonchristianacademy.org Aventura Montessori School Small student teacher ratios with certified experienced teachers to guide and encourage a “Love For Learning.” The classrooms are equipped with unlimited educational Montessori handson material. Two playgrounds for active play. Established in 1995.123 SE 1st Ave. Hallandale. 954-456-5609. Kentwood Preparatory School & Summer Camp Kentwood Preparatory School prepares students for life and develops in its students the necessary academic, social, physical and problem-solving skills to enable them to live constructive lives in a rapidly changing society. December 2010 • www.familymagazine.biz • An education for life. Cognitive and social development is emphasized with the teacher as a mentor and guide. Instruction is based on varied learning styles with mixed age grouping and pursuit of interests through discovery. • Aventura Montessori 123 SE 1st Ave, Hallandale, 954-456-5609 • Apple Tree Montessori 6301 SW 160 Ave. (Dykes Rd.) SW Ranches. 954-252-9250 • www.atmontessori.com • Marware Montessori Academy 2230 Hlywd Blvd. Hollywood. 954-923-7100 www.marwaremontessori.com • Montessori Academy 19200 Pines Blvd. Pembroke Pines. 954-437-2329 • 954-435-4622. www.montessori-academy.org • Montessori Rainbow School 6067 Hollywood Blvd. Ste 100. Hollywood. 954-989-1911 • www.rainbow-montessori.org • Summit-Questa Montessori School 5451 SW 64 Ave. (Davie Rd.) Davie. 954-584-3466 • www.summitquesta.com Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine 19 – Winter Break Making Learning Fun: Help Your Child Get Hooked On Education By Dr. Raymond J. Huntington Whether your child is four or fourteen, there are a number of ways to nurture his or her passion for learning—all the way through his or her schooling. Here are a few tips to raise an inquisitive and interested child who continually seeks new knowledge: When schools let out for the holidays, December 20– 31 Notice what subjects your child enjoys. As your child grows older, it’s natural that his or her interests will change and that some subjects or activities will become more appealing than others. Pay attention to the things that captivate your child and offer him or her opportunities to practice those skills (or learn new things about the subject). If your child enjoys math, for example, research math clubs or competitions in your area (or find fun math games online or at a book store). If your child is a bookworm, make sure he or she has plenty to read by visiting the library often, and talk with him or her about favorite books, topics or characters. the following locations offer winter break activities for your children. Schedules are subject to change so please call to confirm. Welcome all questions. As any parent of a baby or toddler will attest, young children are infinitely curious. Even the simplest of things can spark their interest—a game of Peeka-Boo, the cracking of an egg, rain falling from the sky. As some children progress through school, however, they grow more self-conscious about their knowledge (or lack thereof) on a topic. They become less likely to raise questions in class for fear of sounding “dumb” (or alternately, “too smart”). You can help your child at home by responding positively to questions—no matter the question. Never respond with annoyance or make your child feel that there is something wrong with asking lots of questions. YMCA Winter Break Camp Winter Break Nature Camp At Daggerwing Nature Center December 20–23 & 27–30. Children jwill enjoy the Winter Break with sports, arts & crafts, swimming and other YMCA events! Ages K-5th grade. Camp will run from 7:30am–6pm. Pre-registration required. Sheinberg family YMCA of Weston, 20201 Saddle Club Rd. Weston. 954-424-9622. www.ymcabroward.org December 27–December 30 Campers will go on journeys to explore the unique and diverse environments and animals of Florida. Transportation and admission fees are provided. Campers provide their own lunch and snack. 9–12 year olds. 9am–4pm. $100 per camper. Space limited. Daggerwing Nature Center-So. County Regional Park, 11200 Park Access Rd. Boca Raton. 561-629-8760 Boost your child’s confidence. Research shows that children who are confident approach school and life with optimism and are more likely to strive for future success (and not get down when they sometimes fail). Show your child that you believe in him or her, praise his or her efforts often, and do whatever you can to build your child’s confidence. Be a good role model. Children learn from their parents, so try to be open to new ideas, to embrace new activities and hobbies. Let your child see that you also enjoy and value learning, whether by teaching yourself to play the guitar, taking a class or watching a documentary on a subject that interests you or learning a new sport. Point out the connections. While your child’s teacher is a great person to show him or her how and where school subjects apply to life, you can reinforce this at home, too. Math homework may seem a little more interesting when your child discovers that astronauts, engineers, architects and other professionals use math every day. The more you can show your child the value of and meaning behind homework, the better. Showtime Performing Arts Winter Break camp. Week 1: December 20–23(8am–3pm ) Week 2 December 27–30 (8am–3pm) Camp includes activities, field trips and light snacks. Registration fee $25. Weekly cost $75, or $135 for both weeks. Extended Care (3–6pm.) is $20/week or $5/day. 15491 SW 12 St. Sunrise. 954-9937319. www.lighthousecampweston.com December 20– 31 Students will learn songs, scenes and choreography from the hit Broadway musical Grease. 9am–3pm, Extended hours 8am–6pm. Showtime Dance & Performing Arts Theatre, 503 SE Mizner Blvd. Boca Raton. 561-394-2626. www.ShowtimeBoca.com Week A: December 20–December 24 Week B: December 27–December 31 Each day of camp includes one marine mammal show, one to two animal interactions, arts & crafts, interactive games & much more. Campers will receive a Camp Tshirt, a Kodak souvenir photo, daily lunch, snacks & beverages. 9:30am–4: 30pm. Miami Seaquarium Education Department, 4400 Rickenbacker Cswy. Miami. 305-361-5705x207. www.miamiseaquarium.com Dr. Raymond J. Huntington and Eileen Huntington are co-founders of Huntington Learning Center, which has helped children achieve success in school for 30 years. For more information about how Huntington can help your child, call 1 800 CAN LEARN. www.huntingtonlearning.com • PERFORMING ARTS The Lighthouse Camp Miami Seaquarium’s Winter Camp There’s no magic formula to getting children to enjoy school, but by raising your child to appreciate learning and never lose his or her sense of wonder and curiosity, you will help your child discover that learning—and school—can be a lot of fun. 20 Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine ATTRACTIONS & PARKS www.familymagazine.biz • December 2010 SCHOOLS Montessori Schools An education for life. Cognitive and social development is emphasized with the teacher as a mentor and guide. Instruction is based on varied learning styles with mixed age grouping & pursuit of interests through discovery. • Aventura Montessori 123 SE 1st Ave, Hallandale, 954-456-5609 • Apple Tree Montessori 6301 SW 160 Ave. (Dykes Rd.) SW Ranches. 954-252-9250. www.atmontessori.com • Marware Montessori Academy 2230 Hlywd Blvd. Hollywood. 954-923-7100. www.marwaremontessori.com • Montessori Academy 19200 Pines Blvd. Pembroke Pines. 954-437-2329 • 954-435-4622. www.montessori-academy.org • Montessori Rainbow School 6067 Hollywood Blvd. Ste 100. Hollywood. 954-989-1911. www.rainbowmontessori.org • Summit-Questa Montessori School 5451 SW 64 Ave. (Davie Rd.) Davie. 954-584-3466. www.summitquesta.com TUTORING SCHOOLS!ADVERTISE INOURJANUARYISSUE We Reach Your Market Reserve Your Space Today. & Schools After School Programs Freelistingwithad M A G A Z I N Space Deadline: December 11 E M IAM I • F O R T LAU D E R DALE • B O CA [email protected] Call 305-661-5514 MONTESSORI An Education For Life Club Z! In-Home Tutoring Service START THIS SCHOOL YEAR WITH CONFIDENCE! Our Average Student Improves 2 Letter Grades. Club Z! One-OnOne In Home Tutoring can help with all subjects: PreK–Adult SAT/ACT Prep, FCAT Prep, Math, Reading, Home Schooling & more. www.clubztutoring.com • Pembroke Pines/Weston/Davie/ & Plantation: 954-252-8777 • Miramar: 954-432-8888 Huntington Learning Centers Since 1977, Huntington has been helping students reach their full potential. Huntington will pinpoint your child’s academic strengths and weaknesses and tailor an individualized program just for your child. Just a few hours per week after school, all grade levels. Get help in reading, writing, math, spelling, phonics, study skills, college SAT & ACT Prep, FCAT Prep and more! For a location near you call 1-800-CAN-LEARN or visit www.huntingtonlearning.com • Aventura, 305-792-2535 • Coral Gables, 305-443-1222 • Coral Springs, 305-752-5401 • Doral/Sweetwater, 305-552-1110 • Kendall, 305-598-0686 • Pembroke Pines East, 954-436-3330 • Pembroke Pines West, 954-431-4443 • Plantation, 954-474-4144 • Pompano Beach, 954-782-9880 MONTESSORI METHOD: Cognitive and social development emphasized • The teacher as a mentor and guide • Environment is child centered • Promotes self discipline • Instruction based on varied learning styles • Mixed age grouping • Children teach, collaborate, and help each other • Children can pursue interests through discovery • Children develop concepts with manipulatives • Children are given time to pursue a lesson • Multi-sensory materials Discover the Montessori School In Your Neighborhood! Pembroke Pines/SW Ranches/Weston Apple Tree Montessori 6301 SW 160 Ave (Dykes Rd.) 954-252-9250 www.atmontessori.com License # 45903 Aventura/Hallandale Aventura Montessori School 123 SE 1 Ave 954-456-5609 License # 46361 Hollywood/Aventura/Hallandale Mareware Montessori Academy 2230 Hollywood Blvd. Hollywood 954-923-7100 www.marewaremontessori.com License # 46504 Aventura/Hollywood/Pembroke Pines Montessori Rainbow School 6067 Hollywood Blvd, Suite 100 954-989-1911 www.rainbow-montessori.org License # 46182 All Cities In Broward County Montessori Academy 19200 Pines Blvd 954-437-2329 • 954-435-4622 www.montessori-academy.org License # 46391 All Cities In Broward County Summit-Questa Montessori School 5451 SW 64 Ave 954-584-3466 www.summitquesta.com License # 46082 School Not Listed? Call to join on this ad. 305-661-5514 December 2010 • www.familymagazine.biz • Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine 21 REEL LIFEE WITH JAN Movie reviews for you and your family — by Jane Louise Boursaw Those adventurous Pevensie kids are back on the big screen this month, along with Yogi Bear, the Focker clan, and the return of Jeff Bridges in ‘Tron: Legacy.’ Here’s a sneak peek at what’s new in theaters in December. THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: THE VOYAGE OF THE DAWN TREADER TRON: LEGACY Rated PG for some frightening images and sequences of fantasy action. In theaters 12/10. Ok for kids 8+. 3 This third film in the Narnia franchise finds Edmund and Lucy Pevensie (Skandar Keynes, Georgie Henley), along with their pesky cousin Eustace Scrubb (Will Poulter), swallowed into a painting and onto a fantastic Narnian ship headed for the edge of the world. The voyage will test their hearts and spirits as they face magical Dufflepuds, sinister slave traders, roaring dragons and enchanted merfolk. Only an uncharted journey to Aslan’s Country – a voyage of destiny and transformation for each of those aboard the Dawn Treader – can save Narnia and all the astonishing creatures who live there. The third movie is usually about the time a franchise starts to slip wildly, but that’s not necessarily the case here if you or your kids are fans of the Narnia books by C.S. Lewis. Also check out the BBC series which originally aired in 1988, but was released on DVD Nov. 9, 2010. Not yet rated; likely PG-13. In theaters 12/17. Ok for kids 13+. Surely one of the most anticipated movies of the year, ‘Tron: Legacy’ is a 3D high-tech adventure set in a digital world unlike anything ever captured on the big screen. Sam Flynn (Garrett Hedlund) is a rebellious 27-year-old who’s haunted by the mysterious disappearance of his father Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges, who played the same part in the original 1982 ‘Tron’), a man once known as the world’s leading video-game developer. When Sam investigates a strange signal sent from his dad’s shop, he finds himself pulled into a virtual world where Kevin has been trapped for 20 years. With the help of fearless warrior Quorra (Olivia Wilde), father and son embark on a lifeand-death journey across a visually stunning cyber universe created by Kevin himself. The advanced world contains futuristic vehicles, weapons, landscapes and a ruthless villain who’ll stop at nothing to prevent their escape. I suggest watching the original movie right before you head to the theater to see this one. The story and special effects are worth the trip. YOGI BEAR GULLIVER’S TRAVELS Rated PG for some mild rude humor. In theaters 12/17. Ok for kids 7+. Everyone’s favorite pica-nic basket-stealing bear comes to the big screen in this CGanimated flick based on the classic HannaBarbera cartoon that dates back to 1958 (Yogi started out as a supporting character on ‘The Huckleberry Hound Show’). Jellystone Park has been losing business, so greedy Mayor Brown (Andrew Daly) decides to shut it down and sell the land. That means families will no longer be able to experience the natural beauty of the outdoors -- even worse, Yogi (voiced by Dan Aykroyd) and Boo Boo (Justin Timberlake) will be tossed out of the only home they’ve ever known. Is Yogi really “smarter than the average bear”? Time will tell as he and Boo Boo join forces with their old nemesis Ranger Smith (Tom Cavanagh) to save Jellystone Park from closing forever. Ok, so it all sounds a little hokey, but it’s Yogi Bear and Boo Boo! And Dan Aykroyd and Justin Timberlake! Not yet rated; likely PG. In theaters 12/22. Ok for kids 8+. 22 Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine • www.familymagazine.biz This modern re-telling of the classic tale finds the loopy Jack Black starring as Gulliver, a bigtalking mailroom clerk. After he’s mistakenly assigned a travel piece on the Bermuda Triangle, Gulliver endures a storm at sea and finds himself washed ashore on the hidden island of Lilliput, home to a population of very tiny people. At first enslaved by the diminutive and industrious Lilliputians, Gulliver eventually becomes their hero and learns that it’s how big you are on the inside that counts. Director Rob Letterman also helmed ‘Monsters vs. Aliens’ and ‘Shark Tale.’ Jane’s Reel Rating System: One Reel – Pathetic. Even The Force can’t save it. Two Reels – Tolerable. Coulda been a contender. Three Reels – Thought-provoking. Something to talk about. Four Reels – You want the truth? Great flick! Five Reels – Wow! The stuff dreams are made of. Jane Louise Boursaw is a freelance writer specializing in the movie and television industries. Visit her online at www.filmgecko.com and www.ReelLifeWithJane.com, or email [email protected]. • December 2010 Tales of Holiday Happiness by Meribeth C. Shank Family, friends and food are among the ingredients we choose to help us honor and celebrate holidays in ways we value. Choose any and all of these wonderful tales to remember the past and establish unforgettable traditions to share. The Spider’s Gift: A Ukrainian Christmas Story retold by Eric Kimmel, illustrated by Katya Krenina. Celebrated author Eric Kimmel collaborates once again with Ukrainian artist Katya Krenina for this version of a lovely folktale from her native land where Christmas customs are ancient. Not only the story itself, with roots in central and eastern Europe, but the contrasting bright and dark acrylic illustrations, showing clothing, landscapes, and iconic images, transmit both cultural and family traditions in an almost primitive flat style that accents the descriptive language and importance of the foods and symbols, which were significant aspects of the religious experience for people from that time. Young Katrusya is upset to learn her peasant family will not be celebrating Christmas because the harvest has been so poor there is no money for the extras that define the celebration. But the family ultimately decides that although there is no money to spend, they can still celebrate with a tree, -- which costs nothing to cut down in the forest – by making their own presents, tree ornaments from old brass buttons and paper, hand embroidered cloth, whittled nativity figures, bandura music, and even a braided Christmas bread whose three rings symbolize the Christian trinity. Bringing the tree into the warm house hatches hundreds of spider eggs hidden in the branches, drawing the attention of Katrusya’s mother who wants the spiders out of the house, immediately. The family convinces her to keep the tree and its spiders in the house until after Christmas, a kind gesture that causes Katrusya to rejoice. When they all return from the evening worship celebration, she discovers the webs have, miraculously, become real silver. Graciously, the family shares the wealth of silver with those from their village. Holiday House, $16.95, Ages 6-9 La Noche Buena: A Christmas Story by Antonio Sacre, illustrated by Angela Dominguez. For those unfamiliar with a Miami Christmas, here is a grand introduction to many special Cuban traditions that characterize this holiday. Even for local South Floridians, acquainted with warm winter festivities instead of the typical northern icy winter fare, this lively picture book is a rare treat. Storyteller and author Sacre uses strong sensory language to show the differences Nina experiences from her customary ice skating and building snowmen at Christmas with her mother’s family up north. This year, since it’s her dad’s turn, Nina arrives in Miami’s Little Havana to stay with her Abuela (Grandmother) Mimi for La Noche Buena, (Christmas Eve) the best night of the year for many Cuban families. Not only does Nina have a chance to meet many extended family members, pick fresh avocados and prepare ingredients for the fiesta, she also meets other neighbor children, gets to see everyone (including herself) dressed in their best, shares the huge traveling party through many nearby backyards, walks to the Rooster’s Mass at midnight, dances, and listens to stories and jokes. Readers can almost feel onion- and spice-generated tears in their eyes, see and hear loud bright colorful parrots, listen to Cuban-accented Spanish words -- part of the lilting language of the story -- taste the garlic flavored marinade, smell the roasting pig and feel the warm hugs from family and congregation members Nina is charmed, as are readers and listeners, by both the bright pastel background colors of buildings, clothing, and food reproduced with joyful acrylics by artist Dominguez in this accessible and entertaining story, and by this intriguing glimpse into a distinctive cultural celebration of La Buena Noche. A helpful small glossary of Spanish words and phrases is included at the back. Abrams, $16.95, Ages 5-8 Great Joy by Kate DeCamillo, illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline. When an organ grinder man with his monkey appears, in the week before Christmas, on the street where Frances lives with her mother, Frances wonders where the two newcomers go at night. The music sounds sad and, while her mother finishes Frances’ costume for the pageant, Frances watches from the window as the monkey holds out his tin cup to the people walking past. Luminous, lightly focused paintings in sepia tones suggest a city setting from the 1940’s with clothing, streetlights and cars to strengthen this perception along with a photo of a navy officer on a shelf in the living room. Illustrator Ibatoulline carefully contrasts bright holiday lights with dark snowy night, using tenderly textured acrylic gouache to focus attention on important details like the monkey, the falling snow and faces, especially Frances’ face in her pageant role. On her way with her mother to the nearby church for the Christmas play, Frances stops long enough to drop a nickel in the monkey’s cup and invite the man with the monkey to come to the play. Although he smiles at her, it’s the sadness in his eyes that stays with her later as she prepares to speak her line. But the words simply won’t come out . . . . until the sanctuary door opens to show her guests, releasing Frances to smile. “Behold!” she shouts. “I bring you tidings of Great Joy!” The use of repetition emphasizes the importance of the simple, direct language; particularly as the final double page spread wordlessly shows the entire congregation, including the organ grinder and the monkey, joyfully celebrating with refreshments afterwards. Candlewick Press, $8.99, Ages 4-8 Meribeth C. Shank works in the Media Center at Miami Country Day School, an independent school in Miami Shores, Florida, teaches classes on Writing Books for Young People at Miami Dade College, and earned her MFA in Writing for Children from Vermont Colle December 2010 • www.familymagazine.biz • Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine 23 Holiday Events A Christmas Carol Musical Production at Showtime Theatre Saturdays Thru January 1 Thru Thursday, December 24 Thru Friday, December 24 A Christmas Carol Musical Production! Santa’s Arrival Santa’s Arrival & Photos The Gardens Mall (Palm Beach Gardens) Aventura Mall -Santa’s Village, Fountain Court Showtime Dance & Performing Arts Theatre Follow along with Ebenezer Scrooge as he is visited by 4 ghosts; his old business partner Marley, & the ghosts of Christmas past, present & future. See what happens when he gets a glimpse of his own future if he doesn’t change his life. Find out at this special holiday show with a story so warm it will melt the cold heart of even the grumpiest Scrooge! 2pm. 2 Addt’l Holiday Performances: Wed, Dec 22 & Thurs, Dec 23 @ 6pm. Res req. Adult/$14, Child$10. 503 SE Mizner Blvd. Ste. 73 Boca Raton. 561.394.2626. www.ShowtimeBoca.com Thru Sunday, January 2 Holiday Train Aventura Mall -Center Court Kids will have a blast riding the Holiday Train over & over in the beautifully decorated Center Court. 1 ticket/$2; 4 tickets/$6; 9 tickets/$12; 15 tickets/$20. 19501 Biscayne Blvd. Aventura. www.aventuramall.com Friday, November 12 thru Sunday, January 2 While shopping at the Mall, your kids can visit Santa and tell him what they’re wishing for. The elves will take your candid instant photo with Santa for you to keep as a valued momento. Photo packages may be purchased through December 24th because Santa has lots of toys to deliver on Christmas eve. 3101 PGA Blvd. Palm Beach. 561-775-7750. www.thegardensmall.com Have your photo taken, for a fee, with Santa at his village located near Bloomingdale’s. Mon–Fri@11am–8pm, Sat@10am-8pm, Sun@ Noon–7pm. Santa will be feeding his reindeer daily at the posted time. 19501 Biscayne Blvd. Aventura. www.aventuramall.com Thru Friday December 10 Flamingo Gardens YMCA Giving Trees The whole family can enjoy holiday lights & celebrate the season within the 60 acre Botanical Gardens. The gardens will be decked out for the Holidays with thousands of lights & decorations, while holiday music fills the air. Each weekend through Christmas, Flamingo Gardens presents holiday concerts & performances by such youth groups as Florida Youth Orchestra, Violins in Motion, Rising Starz, Dance Explosion & Envision Ballet Theatre; visits from Santa; & extended weekend hours to 6pm so guests may enjoy the lights at dusk. 12 & Up/$17. 4–11/$8.50, 3 or under/free. 9:30am–5pm/ Mon–Fri; 9:30am–6pm/Sat & Sun. 3750 S Flamingo Rd. Davie. 954-473-2955. www.flamingoGardens.org Sheinberg Family YMCA of Weston The Y is collecting over 800 gifts to be distributed to some of our most needy after-school sites. Please drop off your wrapped or un-wrapped gifts at the YMCA no later than Friday, December 10. Contact Mary Ellyn Lashbrook: [email protected]. Regional Park, 20200 Saddle Club Rd. Weston. 954-424-9622 www.ymcabroward.org Thru Sunday, December 12 Pet Photos w/Santa Thru Friday, December 31 Garden of Lights The Gardens Mall (Palm Beach Gardens) Thru Sunday, January 2, 2011 Holiday Fantasy Of Lights Kooza combines two circus traditions - acrobatic performance & the art of clowning. It’s your last chance to see Kooza in North America before it heads to Japan. Times vary. $35–$255. Bicentenial Park, Under the blue & yellow Grand Chapiteau. Biscayne Blvd. & NE 3rd St, downtown Miami. 1-800-450-1480. www.cirquedusoleil.com/kooza Make a reservation for your furry friends to visit Santa. Sign up at Guest Services Desk. Pet Photo dates & times: Dec 5@7:30–9:30pm, Dec 12@ 7:30–9:30pm. Well behaved dogs and cats are welcome with an appointment. Exotics, such as reptiles, rodents, insects & livestock are not permitted. A complete list of guidelines will be available at Guest Services. Tickets sold on a first come, first served basis. 3101 PGA Blvd. Palm Beach. 561-775-7750. www.thegardensmall.com 24 Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine • Cirque du Soleil: Kooza Bicentennial Park www.familymagazine.biz • Tradewinds Park Drive-thru light show by Brandano Displays. Experience the event in 3D($3 for 3-3D glasses). For all ages 6–10pm. $10/vehicle* Mon–Wed; $13/ vehicle.* Thurs–Sun; *Cost is for 20 passengers or less. Gate Fee/$1.50pp(5& under)/free. 3600 W Sample Rd. Coconut Creek. 954-634-6558. www.holidaylightsdrivethru.com December 2010 Saturday, December 4, CANDY CANE PARADE Hollywood Beach Broadwalk Named a Top 20 Event by the SE Tourism Society, this traditional hometown holiday parade runs the length of the 2.5 mile historic Hollywood Broadwalk past inns, restaurants and shops decked-out for the holidays. Parade called White Ice begins at 7:00pm & will feature over a half million twinkling lights adorning a procession of festive floats, high-stepping marching bands, costumed characters & dance troupes with thousands of candy canes & peppermints handed-out to spectators along the parade route. Information: 954-921-3404 Saturday, December 4 Family Hayride & Campfire Quiet Waters Park uiet Waters Park Enjoy a hayride around the park, & a campfire across from the park office. Advance tickets are required & can be purchased at the park office or by phone Res req. For all ages 6: 30–8:30pm. Hayride: $3/pp ages 3&up. Gate Fee/$1.50pp (5&under/free) 401 So. Powerline Rd. Deerfield Beach. 954-357-5100 Friday, December 3– Wednesday, January 5 Sunday, December 5 The Storymaker’s Art: Florida Illustrators of Children’s Books Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale Original art from childrens’ books by 8 Florida illustrators. Award-winning artists include: Henry Cole, Tom Cross, Bill Farnsworth, Loreen Leedy, Janeen Mason, Cheryl Nathan, Anne Jewett & Frank Remkiewicz. Many of these artists are expected to be present to autograph their books. Collectively, they have won dozens of awards & sold thousands of books. “Original storyboards & proof sheets will compliment some of the books to show the many processes involved in planning and producing a picture book.” In advance of the evening’s opening reception, the college is hosting “Ask the Pros! - Panel Discussion,” 2– 4pm, Room 130. Several guest artists will share their experiences & insight about their industry to guests who are interested in opportunities for creative children’s book art. A $20, tax-deductible donation for this panel discussion event will benefit the EDMC Foundation scholarship program. Mark K. Wheeler Gallery, 1799 SE 17 St. Ft. Lauderdale. www.thestorymakersart.com Sunday, December 5 Saturday, December 4 Ft. Lauderdale Stadium First Presbyterian Church of Delray The largest Hanukah Festival in So. Fla! Carnival games & rides, Kosher food & beverage vendors, local Jewish vendors & agencies, gifts, contests, children’s activity center & more! 10am–6pm. 1301 NW 55 St. Fort Lauderdale. 954-252-6958 It is not too late to pick up some holiday items at this Sale. Held at the Bronson House, just north of the church, you will find many unique, handmade items perfect for holiday decorations or holiday gifts.10am–3pm. 33 Gleason St. Delray Beach. 561-276-6338 Check out this lively musical adaptation of the classic Dickens tale. Follow along with Ebenezer Scrooge as he is visited by by 4 ghosts; his old business partner Marley, and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. See what happens when he gets a glimpse of his own future if he doesn’t change his life. Sat@2pm. Additional Holiday performances Wed, Dec 22 & Thurs, Dec 23@6pm. Res req. Adult/$14, Child(12&under)/$10. 503 SE Mizner Blvd. Boca Raton. 561-394-2626. www.ShowtimeBoca.com Patch Reef Park Community Center Southern Handcraft Society’s Boca Raton Chapter offers the finest handcrafted holiday gifts & home decor! Free Admission. Babes in Arms Only! Thurs@1–9pm, Fri@8:30am–9pm & Sat@8:30am–1pm. So. Side of Yamato Rd. just west of Military Trail, Boca Raton. 561-7913484(WPB) or 561-738-0001(Boynton Beach) • www.familymagazine.biz Drop your children at the Sheinberg Family Y for a day of fun and get your holiday shopping completed! From 11am–4pm for children ages 3–12. Pre-reg. required online or contact Ben Freeman at bfreeman@ymcabrow ard.org. 20200 Saddle Club Rd. Weston. 954-424-9622 www.ymcabroward.org Sunday, December 12 Lafayette Hart Park Participants will receive a phone call from “Santa Claus.” Pre-registration is required at the Park office. For ages 3–7. 6:30–8pm. Free. 2851 NW 8th Rd. Fort Lauderdale. 954-791-1041 This day of festive fun for all ages will embrace the holiday traditions of many cultures and will include acclaimed storyteller Madafo, live performances by local students, as well as holiday inspired, handson art activities. Celebrity designer decorated Christmas trees will be on view along with the very special painting on loan from the National Gallery of Art, Vincent van Gogh’s Self-Portrait and the fabulous exhibition, Nick Cave: Meet Me at the Center of the Earth. 1–5pm. Adult/$12, Child(13– 21)/$5. The Norton Museum, 1451 So. Olive Ave. West Palm Beach. 561-832-5196. www.norton.org December 2010 YMCA Shopping Daze Santa’s Calling Norton Museum of Art Southern Christmas 2010 Spend a great morning with the Sheinberg Family YMCA, Santa & Mrs. Claus! Enjoy a light breakfast, arts & crafts & family fun! Pre-registration required (fee involved). 8:30–10am. Please contact Ben Freeman: [email protected]. 20200 Saddle Club Rd. Weston. 954-424-9622 www.ymcabroward.org Monday–Friday, December 13–17 Holiday Family Festival Thursday–Saturday, December 2–4 Regional Park, Weston Join Secret Woods Nature Center in welcoming back our migratory feathered friends with family friendly crafts & activities, and a special wildlife presentation by the Sawgrass Nature Center & Wildlife Hospital beginning at 2:30pm. For all ages. 2–4pm. Free. 2701 W State Road 84. Fort Lauderdale. 954-357-8884 The motorcycle parade begins at Pompano Harness Track in Pompano Beach and ends with a party at Markham Park in Sunrise with live music, vendors, an Int’l food court, & refreshments. If you are not participating in the motorcycle parade, or are coming by vehicle, it’s recommended to get to the Park before 10am. Park opens at 8am. Roads will be closed for the parade from 10am–1pm. For all ages. 8am–7pm. $10/pp + an unwrapped gift. Gate fee/$1.50pp (5&under)/free. 954-357-8868. www.toysinthesunrun.com Showtime Theatre Breakfast With Santa Secret Woods Nature Center Markham Park A Christmas Carol -Musical! Saturday, December 11 Snow Birds Toys In The Sun Run Thru January 1, 2011 Families will be treated to a variety of free activities including bounce houses, a petting zoo, sports demonstrations, free exercise classes, membership specials, vendors, food, raffles & giveaways. The celebration of Chanukah includes multiple screenings of Shalom Sesame’s Chanukah: The Missing Menorah from the creators of Sesame Street, latkes and candle-lighting. All guests are invited to play “JCC-opoly,” the JCC’s version of the classic game Monopoly. 11am–2pm. 9801 Donna Klein Blvd. Boca Raton. www.levisjcc.org Regional Park Hanukah Celebration Holiday Craft Sale Open House & Chanukah Celebration • Friday, December 17 Family Hayride & Campfire T.Y. (Topeekeegee Yugnee) Park Enjoy an evening with family & friends and take a hayride around the park. You can also roast marshmallows & hot dogs on the campfire and drink hot chocolate. Groups of 15 or more call for res. For all ages. 6–9pm. Hayride: (3&up)/$3pp per ride, includes marshmallows, chocolate, hot chocolate, & graham crackers. 3300 N. Park Rd. Hollywood. 954-357-8811 Continued one page 26 Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine 25 PARTY SECTION Continued from page 25 Holiday Celebration BUGGYSBOUNCERS.COM Perfect Party Pack Boulevard Gardens Community Center, A parent/guardian must complete a regis. form & a Code of Conduct form for children to participate. Activities will include music, games, & refreshments. For ages 6–17. 3:30–4:30pm. Free. 313 NW 28th Terr. Fort Lauderdale. 954-625-2988. $225 Bounce House & Fun Food Machine All Day, • Combo’s Wet & Dry • Waterslides Clown For 1 Hour. • Dunk Tank • Tables & Chairs • Ponies & Train • We Also Do Parks Saturday, December 18 CALL TODAY FOR OTHER SPECIALS (954) 668-6543 WILD BIRTHDAY PACKAGE! Quiet Waters Park Holiday Art & Craft Fair Sabal Pines Park Enjoy a fun and festive hayride through a holiday decorated park. When the ride ends, you’ll enjoy s’mores and watch some holiday short films on a 15’x20’ screen. The cost is just $7pp but you must pre-register, space is limited. No tickets will be sold at the park. You can purchase tickets at the Community Center, 1100 Lyons Rd, or at the Recreation Complex, 4455 Sol Press Blvd, through 2pm on December 18. No one will be able to participate without a prepurchased ticket. Children 13&under must be accompanied by an adult. Sabal Pines Park, 5005 NW 39 Ave. Coconut Creek. 954-5456620. www.coconutcreek.net/events 24050 SW 8th Street (U.S. 41) Miami, Florida • (305) 559-2255 1-800-559-2205 Sunday–Friday, December 26 –31 12 miles west of Florida Turnpike on S.W. 8 St Visit us at gatorpark.com for additional savings Chip-a-Tree Program For Kids & Plus Broward County Parks This program encourages residents to bring holiday trees to a park, where they are chipped & used for landscaping throughout the park system. There is a limit of 2 trees per vehicle, artificial trees are not accepted, and no commercial vehicles or garbage trucks are allowed. All decorative items must be removed. The regular weekend and holiday gate entrance fee will not be in effect for recyclers who drop off trees. Note: Trees will not be accepted on Tuesdays and Wednesdays when the parks are closed. For all ages. 9am–5pm. Free. Gate Fee/$1.50pp (5&under free) Parks and Recreation 954-357-8100. Weekday Sc Special 1 Bo hool House, Mac unce hine $100 • Waterslide • 3-in-1 Combo • 4-in-1 Combo • 5-in-1 Combo • Bounce House • Snow Cones • Cotton Candy • Popcorn • Hot Dogs • Clowns • DJ’s • Tables • Chairs • Tents Brian Piccolo Park, 9501 Sheridan Street, Cooper City, C.B. Smith Park, 900 N Flamingo Rd. Pembroke Pines, Easterlin Park, 1000 NW 38 St. Oakland Park Fern Forest Nature Ctr, 201 So Lyons Rd. Coc. Creek, Markham Park, 16001 West State Road 84. Sunrise Plantation Heritage Park, 1100 So Fig Tree Lane, Plantation Quiet Waters Park, 401 So Powerline Rd. 786-709-5692/786-337-0102 www.forkidspartyrental.com • [email protected] • www.familymagazine.biz Pineapple Grove in Downtown Delray Beach Peruse some of the country’s finest arts & crafts from life-sized sculptures, paintings, handmade jewelry, pottery, & some of the most unique treasures you’ll ever lay your eyes on. Adjacent to this great art fair will be a crafters market place consisting of handmade body products, exquisite candles, wooden plant holders, an expansive green market & much more!! This one is a can’t miss. 10am–5pm. Free. 200 NE 2 Ave. Delray Beach Monday–Friday, December 27–31 Holiday Hayride 12 Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine Sunday & Monday, December 26 & 27 Saturday, December 18 $ • Airboat Tour • Wildlife Show per person • Alligator Wrestling • Lunch & Birthday Cake 26 Holiday Hayride & Campfire Enjoy a visit from Santa (Dec 18 only), a hayride around the park, and a campfire. Participants can also make a holiday craft. Campfire & optional hayride across from the park office. Advance tickets required & can be purchased at the park office or by phone. Groups of 15 or more call for reservations. Res req. For all ages 6:30 to 8:30pm. Hayride: Ages 3&up/ $3pp for one hayride. Gate Fee/$1.50pp (5&under/free) 954-357-5100. 401 So. Powerline Rd. Deerfield Beach INSURED FOR PARKS Deerfield Beach Rev. Samuel Delevoe Memorial Park, 2520 NW 6 St. Fort Lauderdale Snake Warrior’s Island Natural Area, 3600 SW 62 Ave. Miramar T.Y. (Topeekeegee Yugnee) Park, 3300 N. Park Rd. Hollywood Tradewinds Park, 3600 W Sample Rd. Coconut Creek Tree Tops Park, 3900 SW 100 Ave. Davie West Lake Park, 751 Sheridan St. Hollywood • December 2010 Kawanza Celebration Franklin Park Storytelling, dancing, & refreshments. For all ages. 5–8pm. Free. 2501 Franklin Dr. Fort Lauderdale. 954-791-1037 Tuesday & Wednesday, December 28 & 29 Holiday Antique Show War Memorial Auditorium -Fort Lauderdale 60 select local & out-of-state dealers offer a wide range of quality antique furniture, silver, porcelain, antique & estate jewelry, bronzes, crystal, pottery, paintings, prints, Asian items & more. $6. Tues/10am–5pm, Wed/10am–4pm. 800 NE 8th St. Fort Lauderdale. 954-828-5380. www.dolphinfairs.com Friday–Sunday, December 31–January 2 Intn’l Gem & Jewelry Show War Memorial Auditorium -Fort Lauderdale Whether you are looking for a diamond engagement ring, beautiful colored gemstones or a one-of-a-kind gift, you can find it at this Show. Exhibitors from around the world will offer a huge selection of quality jewelry of all kinds including loose colored gemstones, fine finished jewelry, fashion jewelry, beads and more at discounts of 20% to 40% off retail prices. $8pp. 2&under/Free. $2 off online coupon available. Fri/ 12–6pm, Sat/10am–6pm & Sunday 11am–5pm. 800 NE 8th St. Fort Lauderdale. 954-828-5380. www.intergem.com Events are subject to change or may be canceled or postponed without notice. It’s best to call and confirm. Throwing a party for your little one and not sure what to do? For girls ages 5 & up! She will feel like a SPA Celebrity while getting pampered with her closest friends! Low Prices Great Selection Personal Service • Tents • Tables • Linens • Chairs • China • Flatware • Glassware • Banquet Service • Dance Floors SPA PARTIES NO MINIMUM!!! Birthday • Bachelorette • Bridal Showers • Corporate Events • Modeling Classes 954-392-6695 www.SPACelebrations.us 1850 NW 122nd Terrace, Pembroke Pines, FL Taft & Flamingo www.pelicanparty.com 15% OFF 954-583-0277 For Groups of 5 or More Valid until 12/31/10 Valid Until 10/31/10 ���� ��� ���� �������� ��������� ����������� ������������������������ � � �� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � ������������ December 2010 • www.familymagazine.biz • Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine 27 PARTY SECTION SPA Celebrations CAMP SECTION December Events Events are subject to change or may be cancelled or postponed without notice. It’s best to call and confirm. FAIRS & & FESTIVALS FESTIVALS FAIRS Southern Christmas Handcraft Show 2010 Thursday–Saturday, December 2–4 Southern Handcraft Society’s Boca Raton Chapter offers the finest handcrafted holiday gifts & home decor! Free Admission. Babes in Arms Only! Thurs@1–9pm, Fri@8:30am–9pm & Sat@8: 30am–1pm. Patch Reef Park Community Center, South Side of Yamato Rd, just west of Military Trail, Boca Raton. 561-7913484(WPB) or 561-738-0001 (Boynton Beach) Ribfest Saturday & Sunday, December 4 & 5 So Fla’s largest annual barbecue & live music festival is fired-up with over a dozen grill masters competing to prove who has the best barbecue recipes. The 2-day food & music extravaganza showcases live performances by some of the hottest rock & country music artists; fun-filled activities at the Family Fun Zone; great food; arts & crafts vendors; classic car show; motorcycle rally; & more. Sat: 2–9pm, Sun: noon–6pm. $15pp. Under 10/Free. Parking/$5. No coolers allowed. Advance special family packages@ www.ticketmaster.com or 1-800-745-3000. Homestead Air Reserve Park, SW 268 St (Moody Dr.) & SW 122 Ave. 305-668-4343x215. www.miamiribfest.com Broward County Fair thru Sunday, December 5 Photo by Elaine Fitzgerald. Florida’s most treasured timehonored tradition will be back for its 35th season this fall with a new location, new leadership and a renewed emphasis on its agricultural roots. Enjoy great food & rides, educational exhibits & entertainment. $5–$30. 10300 Pines Blvd, Pembroke Pines. 954-922-2224. www.browardfair.org Free Family Fun Day- Chronicles Of Narnia Saturday & Sunday, December 11–12 Join the adventure at Regal Sawgrass Stadium 23’s Free Family Fun day. The themed event heralds the anticipated release of Chronicles of Narnia- The Voyage of the Dawn Treader. Activities will include: Costume contests, Sword Fighting Displays, Face Painting, Balloon Animals, Bounce House, Games, Trivia, and much more! 12–5pm. Free. Does not include movie. Regal Sawgrass Stadium 23, 2600 NW 136 Ave, Sunrise. 954-846-1707 28 Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine • www.familymagazine.biz Family Magazine • www.familymagazine.biz • April 2009 • Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade Saturday, December 11 One of the most visually dazzling events in the country. Thousands of brilliantly illuminated ships light up the night sky to the delight of massive crowds during this signature annual event. Free or Grandstand seating Party in the Park/$16–$21(includes Culinary Courtyard, Broward Health Family Fun Zone, The Seminole Outpost and more! Gates open 3:30pm, parade should arrive at site by 7:30pm) Parade begins @6pm. Starts Downtown Fort Lauderdale on the New River and ends at Lake Santa Barbara, Pompano Beach. Grandstand/Party in the the Park @ Birch State Park. 954-7670686. www.winterfestparade.com Miccosukee Indian Arts Festival Sun, Dec 26–Sun, Jan 2 Experience the color and pageantry of costumed Native Americans from all over the country at the Indian Village. Arts, crafts, storytelling, fashion show, music, dance, native foods & more. 9:30am–5pm. Adult/$13, Child(7–12)$9, 6&Under/Free. Miccosukee Indian Village, Mile Marker 70 on US 41, Tamiami Trail, Miami. 305-925-2555. www.miccosukee.com December 2010 Cirque du Soleil: Kooza The Chocolate Nutcracker Thru Sunday, January 2 Saturday, December 4 The show starts with The Trickster bursting onto the scene like a jack-in-a-box right in front of The Innocent, and that is just the first of many surprises to follow. Kooza combines two circus traditions - acrobatic performance and the art of clowning. Times vary. $35–$255. Bicentenial Park, Downtown Miami, Biscayne Blvd. & NE 3rd St. Under the blue & yellow Grand Chapiteau. 1-800-450-1480. www.cirquedusoleil.com/kooza This holiday adaption of “The Chocolate Nutcracker” is based on the traditional “Nutcracker” by George Balanchine but gives a Black perspective to the age-old tale that has been a holiday tradition for many years. $15–$ 40. Broward Center for The Performing Arts/Amaturo Theater, 201 SW 5 Ave. Fort Lauderdale. 954-4620222. www.browardcenter.org Turandot CAMP SECTION DECEMBER EVENTS THEATER & SHOWS The Nutcracker-Miami City Ballet Thursday–Saturday, December 2–4 The glory and cruelty of ancient China, some of opera’s most famous music, and the thrill of heroic voices create the theatrical experience of which every opera lover dreams. Puccini’s Turandot, his final opera, represents the culmination of the Italian tradition of Grand Opera. 8pm. $21–$200. Broward Center for The Performing Arts/Au Rene Center, 201 SW 5 Ave. Fort Lauderdale. 954-462-0222. www.browardcenter.org Friday–Sunday, December 10–12 Cats: Broadway Across America Friday–Sunday, December 17–19 The longest running, most popular, North American Touring Production in history! There’s no better way to introduce your family to the wonders of live theatre than with the magic, the mystery, the memory of CATS. $24–$62. times vary. Broward Center for The Performing Arts/Au Rene Center, 201 Sw 5 Ave. Fort Lauderdale. 954-4620222. www.browardcenter.org Rock Of Ages: Broadway Across America Sunday, December 5 It is Christmas Eve at the Andersons. Maya & her sisters are excited about their older sister Anna’s Christmas ballet recital, but anxious to get back home in the hope of catching Old St. Nick bringing their Christmas gifts. Presented by Ballet Ouvert. $15–$40. 7pm. Miramar Cultural Center, 2400 Civic Center Place, Miramar. 954-462-0222. www.browardcenter.org In 1987 on the Sunset Strip, a small town girl met a big city rocker in LA’s most famous rock club, they fell in love to the greatest songs of the 80s. (May not be appropriate for kids under the age of 14). $21–$65. Broward Center for The Performing Arts/Au Rene Center, 201 Sw 5 Ave. Fort Lauderdale. 954-462-0222. www.browardcenter.org Snowflakes, sugarplums, naughty little boys, and magical dolls! The charm of the Holidays fascinates all audiences. This classic ballet moves to Tchaikovsky’s popular score based on the tale of Ernest Hoffman. $35. Fri & Sat@7pm, Sun@3pm. Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, 3385 NE 188 St. Aventura. 305-466-8002. www.aventuracenter.org Wednesday, December 17. $6. 10:30am. Parker Playhouse, 707 NE 8 St. Fort Lauderdale. 954-462-0222. www.parkerplayhouse.com Saturday–Sunday, December 18–19. Times vary. $15–$35. Parker Playhouse, 707 NE 8 St. Fort Lauderdale. 954-462-0222. www.parkerplayhouse.com The Nutcracker: Ballet Etudes Friday–Sunday, December 17–19 Madeline’s Christmas Friday–Sunday, December 10–12 Based on the book by Ludwig Bemelmans. “In an old house in Paris that was covered with vines lived twelve little girls in two straight lines.” So begins this delightful story of Madeline’s Christmas! $15. Times vary. Broward Center for The Performing Arts/Amaturo Theater, 201 SW 5 Ave. Fort Lauderdale. 954-462-0222. www.browardcenter.org December 2010 The Nutcracker: Arts Ballet Theatre of Fla. Friday-Sunday, December 10–12 Tuesday, December 28–Sunday, January 9 An Enchanted Christmas A large cast of talented children from the South Florida area join MCB’s international ballet stars to present a holiday treat for the entire family! Fri@7:30, Sat@2 & 7:30pm, Sun@2pm. $19.75–$65. Broward Center for The Performing Arts/Au Rene Center, 201 SW 5 Ave. Fort Lauderdale. 954-462-0222. www.browardcenter.org • www.familymagazine.biz • This magical production features lavish sets and scenery, colorful costuming, exquisite lighting, superb choreography, & delightful theatrical effects. Under the direction of Artistic Director Susana Prieto. $25–$75. Miramar Cultural Center, 2400 Civic Center Place. Miramar. 954-462-0222. www.browardcenter.org Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine 29 DECEMBER EVENTS MUSEUMS THEATER&&GALLERIES SHOWS Holiday Family Festival Ladybug Release Sunday, December 5 Friday & Saturday, December 11 & 12 This day of festive fun for all ages will embrace the holiday traditions of many cultures and include acclaimed storyteller Madafo, live performances by local students, as well as holiday inspired, hands-on art activities. Celebrity designer decorated Christmas trees will be on view along with the very special painting on loan from the National Gallery of Art, Vincent van Gogh’s Self-Portrait and the fabulous exhibition, Nick Cave: Meet Me at the Center of the Earth. 1–5pm. $12pp- Ages 1321/$5, Under 13/Free. The Norton Museum, 1451 So. Olive Ave. West Palm Beach. 561-832-5196. www.norton.org Abracadabra! Everyday Magic Help MODS release tens of thousands of ladybugs across the street in Esplanade Park. Learn about ladybug myths and folklore and how they grow and survive in the wild. Then take a handful of ladybugs and set them free! *Note: There are plenty of ladybugs for everyone. Don’t worry, they do not bite humans. Next, try some edible bugs & get up-close-&-personal with some of the creepy crawlers that call the Museum home. Ladybug Releases@1:30pm & 3:30pm. Opening weekend activities free w/reg. admission. Adult/$11, Child (2–12)/$9. Museum of Discovery & Science, 401 SW 2 St, Fort Lauderdale. 954-467-6637. www.mods.org Woodblock Prints by Yoshu Chikanobu Through January 2 Explore how what may appear to be magic can be explained by everyday principles of math and science. Visitors will enjoy fun tricks & experiments and view the optical illusion artwork of artist Stanford Slutsky. Mon–Fri@10am-5pm, Sun@Noon-5pm. $8pp, Under 2/Free. Young at Art Children’s Museum, 11584 W. State Rd 84, Davie. 954-424-0085 Thru Sunday, February 20 The exhibition includes over 50 woodblock prints from this prolific artist on subjects ranging from customs & manners of Japanese women to the Sino-Japanese War to nostalgic representations of the recently ended feudalistic Edo Period (1600–1868). A series of prints for which the artist is well known imaginatively portrays the lifestyle of the Meiji Emperor and his family, depicting scenes Chikanobu never actually witnessed but was able to imbue with tremendous authority & veracity.Adult/$12, Child(6-17)/$7, 5&under/Free. Tues–Sun@10am–5pm. Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens, 4000 Morikami Park Rd. Delray Beach. 561-495-0233. www.morikami.org MUSEUMS & EXHIBITS The Acappella Singers Suzuki Music Academy Children’s Classical Holiday Concert Saturday, December 18 The Acappella Singers are in their 17th year and specialize in 8-part arrangements with close harmonies that are amazing to hear and very rewarding to experience. The Christmas Concerts feature timeless Christmas carols along with some secular numbers in the Grand Plaza. Noon–2pm. Adult/$24.95, Child(3-11)/$19.95, 2&under/Free. Tradewinds ParkButterfly World, 3600 West Sample Rd. Coconut Creek 30 Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine • www.familymagazine.biz Saturday, December 18 The Academy’s widely-acclaimed children violinists perform a concert that families with children of all ages will enjoy. The concert will include traditional holiday songs & music by Bach, Mozart, Brahms, Dvorak, & Beethoven. Free. 2pm. Weston Branch Library, 4205 Bonaventure Blvd. 954-797-7777 or 954-389-2098 • December 2010 Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation Annual “Holiday Party” DECEMBER EVENTS FUN ACTIVITIES ArtsPark Hawaiian Holiday Saturday, December 11 Saturday December 11 Grab your mittens and play in the snow, decorate cookies, and take photos with Santa. Stay for a very special holiday magic show. Bring a lawn chair & picnic baskets. Pets on leashes welcome. 3–7pm. Free admission. Canyon Town Center Amphitheater, 8802 Boynton Beach Blvd, Boynton Beach. 561-4888069. www.pbcparks.com This free holiday-themed Polynesian show will feature entertainers from Hollywood-based Ohana Arts. The entertainers are native to the South Pacific and skilled in the unique art of Tahitian drumming & dancing, the exciting fire dance of Samoa & the lovely melodies & rhythms of Hawaiian music & hula dancing. Bring a blanket or chair for comfort. ArtsPark, 1 Young Circle, Hollywood. 954-921-3500 Glam It Up For The Holidays Monday–Thursday, December 20–23 Nature Tots: Snakes Thursday, December 16 Spa Celebrations’ GIFT to you - Your daughter will look and feel like a SPA Celebrity with a beautiful up-do and glitter makeup! Noon–4pm. $15. SPA Celebrations,1850 NW 122 Ter. Pembroke Pines. 954-392-6695 Kids and their parents can join a Broward Co. Parks naturalist and learn about nature through stories, songs, arts & crafts, & more. Theme & activities vary each month. Reg req. For ages 2–4 accompanied by an adult. 10–11am. $3/child. Secret Woods Nature Center, 2701 W. SR 84. Dania Beach. 954-357-8884. Parkland 5 Mile Holiday Run Sunday, December 19 5 Mile or 2 Mile run. The 5 mile run will be scored & timed, the 2 Miler is noncompetitive. Either one can be run or walked. T-shirts will be given to all pre-registered runners and walkes and awards will be given for runners. There will be a pancake breakfast for all participants. Admission: Pre-registration: $25/5 Miler, $15/2 Miler, Family entry fee $60/2 adults & 2 kids. Late Registration: $30/5 Miler, $20/2 Miler, Family Entry Fee/$70. 7:30am. Pine Trails Park, 10555 Trails End, Parkland. 954-247-8204 Children’s Nature Series: Rainforests CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS E-mail: [email protected] To view calendar online: www.familymagazine.biz Saturday, December 18 Parents, bring your little ones to experience exciting nature topics! Programs may include activities such as: stories, puppets, games, role play, nature walks, & crafts. Ages 3–6, $4/pp. Res. req. 10:30–11:15am. Daggerwing Nature Center-So. Co. Regional Park, 11200 Park Access Rd. Boca Raton. 561629-8760. www.pbcparks.com/nature • Include the name of the event, location, address, day & date, time, brief description, cost and a telephone contact for the public. • Items must be submitted by the 15th of the month prior to the event month. • Events are listed on a space available basis. • Preference is given to non- profit or community based events and events of broad appeal to families. Check out more Holiday Fun Events on pages 24, 25 & 26. December 2010 • www.familymagazine.biz • Fort Lauderdale/Boca Family Magazine 31 ��������� ��������� ������������������������������������������ �������������������������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������ ��� ���� ��� ���� �������� ���� ������ ������ ��� ������� ���������� ��� �� ���������� ����� ������ �������� ��������� ���� ������� ������ ���� ���� ����������� ��������� ����� ���� ������� ������� ������ �������� ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������