Wilmington Parent September 2012

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Our 15th Year of Serving New Hanover, Brunswick & Pender County Families!

Your FallPartY Planner!

INSIDE:

• Creative Party Ideas• Party Resource Listing• Dealing With Food Allergies• Special Advertising Section

HELP YouR CHILDNAvIgAtE FRIENDSHIPS

CovER KIDS ANNAbELLE AND tHAtCHER

tEEN DAtINgARE tHEY too YouNg?

SePt

emBe

r 20

12 •

Fre

e

MEEt tHE ExPERt Downtown Darlings

Dental Care Tip #9 Dental education is important! Always keep learning about great oral health!

3505 Converse Dr, Ste. 175 Wilmington, NC PHN 910-794-2266 • [email protected] • www.ccpedo.comJulie B. Dimock, DDS, MS • Adam W. Weinberg, DDS

Board Certified

910-383-2615 • www.bluewavedentistry.comNow Scheduling Appointments in Leland at...

NORTH CAROLINAAQUARIUM

at Fort Fisher

900 Loggerhead Road | Kure Beach, NC | 910.458.8257 | ncaquariums.com/fort-fisher

Fintastic Birthdays!

DISCOVER PLAY TOGETHER LEARN

WONDER

Wilmington Parent | September 2012 | 1 www.wilmingtonparent.com

Where ACADEMIC

EXCELLENCE is not just

a goal, it’s the natural and

consistent result of a rich

and creative educational

environment where students

enjoy and are truly engaged in

learning and questioning. Call

us today to schedule a visit and

experience Friends School. PreK-2nd Grade l 207 Pine Grove Dr. l 910.791.82213rd - 8th Grade l 350 Peiffer Ave. l 910.792.1811 l www.fsow.org

Limited Spaces Available for 2012-2013

Robert T. Kelly, DDS & William R. Cherry III, DDS, MS

1635 Doctors Circle Wilmington, NC (910) 343-1735 • www.drkellydds.com

Photo of the Cherry Family taken by Teeny Harris of www.thecoralpeacock.com

Specializing 31 Years in Children’s Dentistry, Ages 1-17

Preventative Restorative • Cosmetic

Nitrous Oxide and In Office Sedation Available

• Early Morning/Late Afternoon Appointments Available

Lifeguards Are Gone, But Keep Brushing All Year Long To Guard Against Cavities

www.wilmingtonparent.com2 | September 2012 | Wilmington Parent

Will you be ready for college when they are?You can be. Start saving for college with the NC 529 Plan, to take advantage of these and other benefi ts:

• No enrollment fees or sales charges to open your NC 529 account

• Earnings on your NC 529 account are tax-free when used for qualifi ed higher education expenses

• Contributions made to your NC 529 account are the ONLY 529 contributions deductible from your NC taxable income

To invest in your child’s future today, visit CFNC.org/NC529 or call 800.600.3453.

© 2012 College Foundation, Inc.The availability of tax benefi ts may be conditioned on meeting certain requirements. To learn about North Carolina’s National College Savings Program, its investment objectives, risks and costs, read the Program Description available from CFNC.org NC529 or 800-600-3453. Check with your home state about tax or other benefi ts associated with investing in its own qualifi ed tuition plan.

NC529 Plan-College Savings

with tax advantages!

CFNC.org/NC529


Is Your Child Struggling in School?

Tracey Glendenning, OD, FCOVD201 Racine Drive 395-6050

Below average reading skills, careless errors, poor memory and concentration, reverses letters?If this sounds like your child, we can help.

How Can Our Center Help?First, we test and diagnose if a child has learning-related vision problems. If such a difficulty exists, a vision therapy program is recommended to meet the child's special needs. Your child will work on specific goals with a certified optometric therapist, under the supervision of a developmental optometrist. The ultimate goal is to allow the individual to perform up to his/her potential in the classroom without unnecessary struggling.

What Do I Need To Do?If your student is in the 1st grade-college, and is struggling academically, call us to set up an initial appointment. When diagnosed early, we can significantly improve and often alleviate the problem entirely. Many insurances help cover the cost of testing.

9 1 0 . 7 9 1 . 0 2 8 7 • C A P E F E A R A C A D E M Y. O R G

“Students at Cape Fear Academy can expect to be nurtured, appreciated, and

academically challenged by great teachers.”

Will you be ready for college when they are?You can be. Start saving for college with the NC 529 Plan, to take advantage of these and other benefi ts:

• No enrollment fees or sales charges to open your NC 529 account

• Earnings on your NC 529 account are tax-free when used for qualifi ed higher education expenses

• Contributions made to your NC 529 account are the ONLY 529 contributions deductible from your NC taxable income

To invest in your child’s future today, visit CFNC.org/NC529 or call 800.600.3453.

© 2012 College Foundation, Inc.The availability of tax benefi ts may be conditioned on meeting certain requirements. To learn about North Carolina’s National College Savings Program, its investment objectives, risks and costs, read the Program Description available from CFNC.org NC529 or 800-600-3453. Check with your home state about tax or other benefi ts associated with investing in its own qualifi ed tuition plan.

NC529 Plan-College Savings

with tax advantages!

CFNC.org/NC529


DEPARTMENTS

Please recycle this magazine

Cover by Nichole Louise Photography 910-367-5151 • www.nicholelouisephotography.com

in this issue

September 2012

SPecial Section: Party Planner 20 creative Party ideaS

22 birthday Party reSource liStingS

27 food allergieS and birthday PartieS

11 helP your child navigate friendShiPS

33 teen dating: how young iS too young

member

To Advertise Contact: Beth Burgee

561-339-6154E-mail: [email protected]

Karin LeMaire617-510-2365

E-mail: [email protected]

Daily Deals

Brandy Metzger910-262-6810

[email protected]

Publisher/Editor in ChiefKeith Jaworski910 343-1226

E-Mail: [email protected] EditorDanielle Villegas910 343-1226

E-Mail: [email protected] Editor :

Sandie Loudermilk E-Mail: [email protected]

Design/Layout Department:Yulia Zarubina - Brill

910 343-1226E-Mail: [email protected]

Customer Service910 343-1226

E-Mail: [email protected]

Opinions/Suggestions/FeedbackWe value our readers opinions — help us to

serve you better! Our mailing address is:Wilmington Parent

PO Box 1336, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480or E-Mail: [email protected]

Wilmington Parent is published 12 times a year. Distribution of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. The publisher reser-ves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the publication's standards. All contents of Wilmington Parent are protected under copyright. Reproduction of any content requires permission of the publisher. All rights reserved.

Wilmington ParentPO Box 1336, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480

© Wilmington Parent 2010Seaside Media, LLC

Complimentary copies of Wilmington Parent are available to the public at various locations in the greater Wilmington area. One copy per family is

permitted. Additional copies require the written permission of the Publisher. Subscription rates for home delivery are $24 for one year.

Public Service Announcements/CalendarPlease submit items/photos before the

2nd Friday of the prior monthor E-Mail: [email protected]

or Fax: 910 343-12275 Editor’s NotE6 short stuff8 GrowiNG uP oNLiNE10 famiLy fiNaNCEs12 rEEL LifE14 CaLENdar19 iN thE NEws28 fit famiLy30 sChooL NotEs32 GoiNG GrEEN34 Book BEat35 mEEt thE ExPErt36 PEaNut GaLLEry


department | editor’s note

It’s party time again! Birthday parties are fun for kids to attend, but sometimes stressful for the parents doing the plan-

ning. This month’s special Birthday Party Planner section is a wonderful place to start planning your child’s next birthday party. Need ideas for locations, party favors, cakes, entertainment, or themes? Starting on page 20 you will find plenty of fresh ideas to point you in a fun direction!

With school season in full swing, kids are surrounded by all their old and new friends! At all stages of a child’s life how-ever, friendships can be tricky. Jan Udlock’s article, “Help Your Child Navigate Friend-ships,” gives parents a few tips to help your child build long-lasting, healthy friend-ships. As for the academic issues during the school year, check the School Notes section for tips on how parents can help their child achieve long-term academic success.

As always, the calendar is a perfect place to begin planning your monthly fun activi-ties! Take special note of the Spot Festival in Hampstead starting September 29th! Here’s hoping everyone has an easy-going September, because the next few months promise to be a frenzy of fall festivals, holi-days, and fun-filled school events!

Happy party planning!

Danielle

Two Locations: 1516 Doctors Circle • 8066-A Market Street910 251-1100 • www.campbellsmiles.com

Smile for a Lifetime is a non-profit organization that provides FREE orthodontic

care to children in need from our community. Our mission is to create self-confidence, inspire hope and change

lives. To nominate a deserving child, visit

www.campbellsmiles.com and complete the application before September 30th, 2012.

The Children’s Schoolhouse is a small traditional montessori School committed to a

high quality of individual academic experience, administered with an enthusiastic but gentle approach. Now enrolling students for 2, 3 or 5 day programs: ages 3-5, NC State recognized elementary kindergarten for 5-6 year olds, 1/2 day

on-site Marine Science camp. each classroom Directress is

montessori CertifiedLocation: 612 South College

Rd. (across from UNCW)Housed in St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church • Lucy Hieronymus, Directress (910) 799-1531

TCSH admits students regardless of race, religion, national or ethnic origin

Wilmington's Oldest Montessori School

The Children's Schoolhouse

http://www.childrensschoolhouse.net


department | short stuff

shortstuff

9th Annual Intercultural FestivalThe Intercultural Festival will be hosted by the Brunswick Community College, Brunswick Arts Council, Brunswick County Chamber of Commerce and The Brunswick Beacon in front of the Odell Williamson Auditorium on September 8 from 10am – 4pm.

Don’t miss the International Pavilion and its information displays from Africa, South America, Asia, and Europe. Other event activities include International Food Tasting Tent ($6), Entertainment Stage (featuring musicians, dancers and performers), and Kid Activities!

This Festival is a full day of family fun and cultural opportunities. Contact (910) 842-6566 or [email protected] for more information.

Fun Fest & BBQA family fun day is open to everyone on September 15 at Church of the Servant located at 4925 Oriole Drive!

Beginning at 4pm, the event will feature carnival games, pork bbq and fried chicken dinner (catered by Middle of the Island) with vegetarian options, dunking booth, corn hole competition, high-end cake walk and more!

Dinner tickets are $10/adults and $6/children. Corn hole com-petition is $20 entry fee for 2-man teams. Cakewalk entry fee is $20 and Cupcake Walk 50 cents. A portion of all proceeds will provide free tickets for College Park Elementary students and their parents.

Contact (910) 470-1876 or [email protected] for more Fun Fest information.

JenkinsPreschool Academy

JPA

(910) 367-7210 | www.jpawilmington.com | 7888 Market St

Half day classes

Certi ed teachers

Small class sizes

Nurturing & fun

More than playat JPA

NeW Tues/Thurs sections open for

2's and 3's.Call to schedule a visit

Mowing • Mulch • Sod • Pruning Pinestraw • Retention Ponds • Storm Cleanup Lawn Treatments • Flower Installation • Landscape Design

Install & Maintain

CommerCialvresidentialvHoa'sQuality Work • Dependable Service • Free Estimates • Fully [email protected]

$25 Off First Visit or $100 Off any project over $1000

Call to schedule a tour

A unique half-day academic program for students in grades 1-8 with learning

disabilities and/or attention deficit disorder

4:1 teacher to student ratio

Empowering children who have learning differences with the skills

needed to become confident, independent learners


Gym makeover! New equipmeNt!

reGister Now oNliNe

www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com 3529 Carolina Beach road

school year sessionClasses Begin sept. 4th

910-796-1896

Big Sweep 2012!What entangles birds, cuts feet and contaminates water? What’s a form of pollution that we can help both

prevent and clean up? If you guessed litter, you are correct! Together we

can clean up over 40 miles of water-ways in New Hanover County in just

one morning during this year’s Big Sweep. Join this event on Saturday,

September 29 by registering at www.keepnhcbeautiful.org and completing the Big Sweep Sign Up form. Recruit

your kids, book club, coworkers or civic organization for a great commu-

nity service event, or come out and meet some new friends. Don’t miss

this chance to make a difference!

Celebrate Tennis DayMark your calendar for September 8!

A free, family-friendly day of tennis activities and performances will be held at Empie Park’s Althea Gibson Tennis Complex beginning at 3:30pm.

SCHEDULE3:30-5pm: Kids Tennis Activities4:30-6pm: Adult Tennis Activities and Clinics6-7pm: Pro-Am7:15-7:45: The Bijou Tennis Show8-10pm: Watch the US Open Women’s Final Live from New York on a 28-Foot Screen

Vendors will be set up for food and drink purchases. Call (910) 341-4631 or email [email protected] for more information.

Family Activities at the Children’s MuseumGRANDPARENT’S DAYThe Children’s Museum will host “Grandparent’s Day” activities on September 9 from 1-5pm!

Guests will have an opportunity to make silhouettes of their grand-children, listen to book readings, plant flowers, and more. This day was designed to let children and their grandparents have a fun-filled afternoon celebrating their relationships with one another!

FREE MUSEUM DAYAs a gift of Smithsonian Magazine, enjoy a free day at The Children’s Museum on September 29 from 9am – 5pm.

Simply visit www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday to print tickets for this one-day event… and ENJOY!

Visit www.playwilmington.org or call (910) 254-3534 for details about these special events!

BRING THIS AD IN FOR $10 OFF YOUR FIRST MONTH

w/paid registration


department | growing up online

By Carolyn Jabs

How to Make Digital “You’re Grounded” Work

grow

ing

up on

line

Teaching kids to do the right thing isn’t easy. Basically, parents have three op-tions: Encourage good behavior. Ig-

nore poor behavior (especially when it’s caused by temporary factors such as fatigue, hunger or simple immaturity.) Discourage bad behavior by associating it with disagree-able consequences.

For wired kids, the most disagreeable consequence is often loss of digital privi-leges. Although parents have been doing it for years, “digital grounding” got its name in 2010 when research from the Pew Internet and American Life Project reported that 62% of parents had disciplined their kids by tak-ing away a cellphone.

Grounding of any kind is simply a big kid version of “time out.” The theory is that, if a child is disconnected from other people for a while, they will a) have extra time to think about what they did wrong and b) miss their social connections so much they won’t want to repeat the problem behavior. Now that kids do most of their socializing online, the only effective way to disconnect them is to con-fiscate their digital devices or limit access to

texting, social media and interactive games.

To make digital grounding effective, par-ents should be aware of the distinction be-tween discipline and punishment. Both words are rooted in Latin, but discipline comes from a root that means “to teach” while punishment comes from a word that means “to inflict pain.” The impulse to pun-

ish is understandable, especially when a child’s behavior has caused distress for a parent. The theory, of course, is that making a child suffer for a mistake will discourage that mistake in the future. Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. Punishment often triggers resentment, which, in turn, makes kids devi-ous or even defiant.

In contrast, the goal of discipline is to help children learn from mistakes and develop the self-control that guides better choices in the future. Instead of doing the right thing be-cause he or she is afraid of external conse-quences, a child who has the benefit of good discipline develops an inner sense of what is right based on trust, respect and an ability to think about long term goals.

Come to think of it, those three qualities—trust, respect and clarity about long-term goals—are also what parents will need if they are going to make digital grounding a form of discipline in the best sense of the word. Here are some suggestions about how to do just that:

Establish the idea of digital privileg-es. Parents don’t give toddlers their own cellphones because they aren’t responsible enough to use them properly. When your child is old enough for a phone or any other digital device or activity, be sure he or she understands that access is a privilege that has been earned by demonstrating responsibility in other ways. Some parents reinforce this idea by making use of digital devices con-tingent upon specific behaviors—no screen time until your room is clean or homework is finished. The corollary, of course, is that continued access depends upon appropriate behavior—and that a child who has been grounded can earn back digital privileges by demonstrating more maturity.

Be clear about expectations. Children are more likely to experience grounding as pun-ishment if it seems like a random response to behavior parents don’t like. Whenever pos-sible, be clear in advance about what you ex-pect and why it matters. As children get older, listen to their point of view and modify rules to reflect their growing capabilities. House rules that are clear and make sense to kids are

did you know tHat you need over 17 visual skills to suCCeed in reading, learning, sports, and in life?1 in 4 children struggle with reading and learning due to vision problems. These issues make it difficult for children to pay attention in school and learning falters. According to a report from the New Jersey Commission on Business Efficiency of the Public School, “Undiagnosed and untreated vision related learning problems are significant contributors to early reading difficulties and ultimately to special education classification.”

Vision plays a vital role in a child’s education. Early detection can save years of struggling. Here at The Vision Therapy Center we can help by providing a simple Pediatric Routine Eye exam before school. Call or visit our website for more information.

ThE VISION ThERAPy CENTER • Stephen J. Kaluzne, O.D., P.A.7655 Market St., Suite B • Wilmington, NC • 910-319-7996 • www.visiontherapycenter.org

Dr. Stephen Kaluzne, Optometrist, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of visual efficiency and visual processing problems.


less likely to be broken. And, when transgres-sions do occur, kids are less likely to resent calm, even-handed enforcement of penalties that have been discussed in advance.

Connect consequences to behavior. Many experts believe the most effective conse-quences grow logically out of misbehavior. A child who sends inappropriate text messages loses cellphone access precisely because he’s demonstrated an inability to use the device responsibly. A child whose grades suffer be-cause she’s gossiping on Facebook when she says she’s researching a paper can’t use social media until she makes schoolwork a priority. In such cases, parents may actually want to say that the device is causing a problem so it’s being grounded (instead of the child).

Enlist tech support. One of the best things about technology is that there are “off” but-tons that make it possible for parents to enforce digital grounding. If you’ve decid-ed that it’s in your child’s best interest to use the computer only for homework, use a timer to back up a digital curfew. Curtail access to specific websites by changing passwords or using the blocking software provided by your ISP. Contact your cellphone carrier to find out whether you can temporarily disable services such as texting or web access. Some companies will also let you restrict calls so your child can use a cellphone only for emer-gency calls or to get in touch with you.

Think ahead. Before blurting out, “You’re grounded!” parents should anticipate con-sequences —for themselves. The Pew Re-port found that many parents didn’t follow through on cellphone bans because they needed to reach their kids on the phone. The same thing may be true of social media or even video games. If your child depends on an afternoon gaming session to relieve stress or social media to maintain friendships, you’ll want to think carefully about whether taking away those privileges is the best way to achieve your goals.

Used judiciously, digital grounding may ac-tually improve family relationships. Some par-ents find that unplugging a child for a while opens up opportunities for conversation and other shared activities. Though they aren’t likely to see it that way at the time, many chil-dren will, in retrospect, be grateful for parents who insisted that they step away from digital distractions so they could reconnect with a bet-ter, more responsible version of themselves. v

Carolyn Jabs, M.A., raised three computer savvy kids including one with special needs. She has been writing Growing Up Online for ten years and is working on a book about constructive responses to conflict. Visit www.growing-up-online.com to read other columns.

Coastal Kids Therapy is a pediatric occupational therapy practice providing therapy in a fun, playful and nurturing atmosphere in which the therapist/child relationship is vital. We offer the following services:* Sensory processing* Assistive Technology* Motor Skill Development* Oral Motor/Feeding Skill Development* Visual motor/Visual perceptual skill development * Self care skill training* Handwriting without tears Laurel Thornton, OTR/L219 Racine Drive Suite 1-A Wilmington, NC 28403

910.792.6706www.coastalkidstherapy.com

Located off 23rd St. across from movie

studio w/ easy access from mLK

or market St.

• 2 to 4 year old preschool classes - Preparing your child for kindergarden• 2-4 old Morning Program - 8:30am - 12:30pm Tues-Thurs• Infant & Toddler Program - Safe, Nurturing & Loving environment• After School Program - Full of Fun & Adventure• We are an official 4-h club

Now Enrolling!


department | family finances

By Robyn Passante

fam

ily fi

nanc

es

Living on one income: Some do it by choice, some do it out of necessity. For others, it’s a risk they’d like to take but aren’t sure they can pull off.

If your family would like to drop (or severely limit) one income, and you have the lux-ury of planning out such a lifestyle change, there are steps to take to make it possible – or not.

Get everyone on the same page. This is never going to work unless the whole family buys into the idea. Make sure the reasons for cutting an income (provided they’re your own, not due to a job loss) are clear, and worth it for all involved. There will be sacrifice, and when people feel pinched it’s important to know the pain is worth it.

1. Budget it out. Every finance plan revolves around the budget, and this one is no different. You must know exactly what you spend every month on: 1. fixed expenses, such as utilities and car payments, gas and food, retirement savings and investments; 2. secondary expenses, in-cluding things you can live without (cable, gym memberships, eating out, travel); 3. emergency expenses – a small cushion you need to have on hand for medical bills, car repairs and other unexpected hits to your bank account.

2. Figure out the cost of work. How much do you currently spend to earn the income you’d like to drop? Add up how much you spend on gas (or other commuting expenses), daycare, clothing, food and anything else you can think of (dry cleaning, office party contributions, etc.). When you have that total, subtract it from your current double income to see how big a gap there is between one income and two.

3. Get thrifty. Remember the sacrifice we talked about in Step 1? It’s real. Can you live with-out cable? Without a smartphone? Without your Friday night restaurant habit and your every-

six-weeks haircolor? Think long and hard about the things every member of your family is willing to forego in pursuit of your goal.

4. Then get real. Cutting out your morning coffee will help a little, but it won’t make up the difference lost from an entire income (unless you have a monster-sized caffeine addiction). Consider which big-ticket items you can slash from your budget. Can you sell the second car? Rent out a room? Slash your credit card bills before making the leap to one income?

5. Spend a month or two walking the walk. Chances are you’ll get used to the absence of some things after a short time, but might miss others terribly. This will tell you where to prioritize any extra money that comes your way (or that you can find in your lean and mean budget).

6. Don’t give up too much. Remember, if you give up too much you’ll end up resentful and tempted to go on a spending binge that could hurt your progress and betray your goals.

7. Stop looking outward. It’s impossible to keep up with the Joneses when both Mr. and Mrs. Jones are working full-time. You might need to have a frank discussion with close friends, to let them know of your new lifestyle and that you’re making different choices than your once-implied Saturday night out together or ex-pensive community pool membership.

Following these simple steps will give your family a clear indica-tion of whether you can cut back to a single income with smiles and satisfaction. v

Robyn Passante is a freelance writer and mother of two whose family just finished five months of unexpected single income status. She can be reached at [email protected].

Can You Afford to Live on One Income?


With slumped shoulders, your child comes home from school and announces that she doesn’t like her best friend anymore? What’s up? As your child matures, she is bound to have conflict with her friends so here are a few practical ideas for you to help your

child navigate the journey of friendships.

What is a Friend? Kids and moms normally have different definitions of what a friend is - so ask them. Listen

to how your child describes a friend. Depending on the age of your child, friends can be from someone to play with to someone who’s bestest buds and shares all their personal secrets.

Young ChildrenSpend some time reading friendship books with your kids. Ask your local children’s librarian

for suggestions. Talk about how the characters in the book handle different situations.Role playing is helpful too. With younger kids, you can set up stuffed animals and have them

act out different friend scenarios. You and your child can play with three animals who all want to play together but someone gets their feelings hurt. Another one can include a fun loving bear who always wants to do what he wants to do and expects his friend to go along with him. So what are the options for the friend?

When you’re playing with your child, ask open ended questions rather than a question that can be answered with a yes or no. “Staying away from ‘why’ questions may help, since they usually get an ‘I dunno!’ What, when, and how questions tend to elicit more information,” sug-gests licensed clinical social worker, Bette Freedson. “What do you think the Teddy bear should have done when the lion grabbed his toy? When is it a good time to ask an adult for help?”

Don’t be afraid of silence either when you’re playing. Let your child think through the situa-tion to come up with her own answer.

Different Kids - Different SkillsYou may have a leader-type of child or a follower. If you have a leader, ask him if he has done

something kind or considerate for his friend this week? He may not have to worry about getting along with others but it’s helpful to check in with him about the friendship topic. Does he think his close friend would be able to disagree with something he said? Would he know if his buddy really disagreed with him?

Whereas a child that goes along with the leader may have to learn how to speak up to their friend. Parents need to help their child define when they are happy to follow and when they are being led against their will.

You may have to help your child work through harder circumstances and give your child the words to say in an uncomfortable situation. When a child practices words, she can become more self-confident if a situation were to arise.

Jealousy Among FriendsJealousy is a common feeling of “I want what you have.” Often kids feel less valued if a good

friend picks someone else to play with. It is important to acknowledge your child’s feelings. Yet, discuss with your child that another person’s actions does not diminish her value as a person.

When you are discussing with your child about a concern of hers, stay focused on the behav-ior of the other child and not the child. This is important, because if your child sees the other child as the unkind or a “bad” friend, it’s easy for her to fall into a victim mentality.

Model, Model, ModelAs a parent, you can talk to your kids but they learn best by watching you. Make sure you

aren’t complaining to your child about your girlfriend’s temper or how another friend is always late to your coffee dates. Set a good example for your child.

Red FlagIf one or both children involved in the friendship begin to exhibit negative behavior, you

should intervene in the relationship. Constant disrespect, devaluing school or other values important to the family are all signs that you should be concerned

Deep BreatheAs parents we want to protect our child from anything hurtful. Yet, these friendships are help-

ing them mature and grow. By coaching them through friendships now, you will be giving them the skills they will need throughout their life to be a good friend and develop close friendships with others. v

Jan Udlock has had her share of friend discussions with her five kids. She can be contacted at [email protected].

Help your Child navigate friendships

Jan Udlock



department | reel life

September means the kids are heading back to school, but also that Nemo is heading back to theaters, Bradley Cooper is plug-ging in his laptop, and Jennifer Lawrence is dealing with scary neighbors. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s new in theaters this month.

Jane’s Reel Rating System

1 Reel Even the Force can’t save it.

2 Reels Coulda’ been a contender

3 Reels Something to talk about.

4 Reels You want the truth? Greatflick!

5 ReelsWow! The stuff dreams

are made of.

By Jane Louise Boursaw

reel

life

Jonah and The Whale Not yet rated; like PG-13. In theaters September 4. Ok for kids 13+. Reel Preview: 3 out of 5 Reels. http://www.jonahandthewhalemovie.com/.

I’m not gonna lie. I know precious little about this movie directed by Daniel

Maze, because there’s been no info released to the press yet -- which is odd considering we’re less than a month away from its theatrical pre-miere. But here’s what I do know. It’s a romantic comedy starring Ashley Tisdale (Sharpay in High

School Musical), G Hannelius (Dako-ta in Sonny With a Chance), and Joel

David Moore (Joey Ramone in the up-coming film CBGB). By the time you read

this, there may be more info on the official

Web site, but for now, all we get is a tagline: “An unlikely pair, an unbelievable night.” Because High School Musical and Hannah Montana are listed with the actor’s names (G Hannelius had a tiny role in Hannah Montana back in 2009), I’m guessing they’re targeting the teens who grew up with those shows.

The WordsPG-13 for brief strong language and smoking. In theaters September 7. Ok for kids 14+. Reel Preview: 4 out of 5 Reels. http://www.thewordsmovie.com/.

Bradley Cooper could easily have taken the handsome-guy action-hero path, but instead, he continues to choose thoughtful films with a message. In this romantic drama, he plays Rory Jansen, a writer who finally achieves literary success after publishing the next great Ameri-can novel. There’s just one catch. He didn’t write it. As the past comes back to haunt him, Jansen is forced to confront the steep price that

October 20, 2012, 9am-3pmTidal Creek Cooperative Food MarketFree Admission & Plenty of Free Parking

Healthy LivingFallFest

A free family event promoting healthy lifestyles, featuring:

Cooking DemosSpeakersExhibitorsYogaFitnessNutritionDancingKids ActivitiesTrick or TreatsBounce HousesCostume Contest

Coming this Fall!

To participate as a sponsor, exhibitor, vendor, speaker or entertainer contact:Beth Burgee 561-339-6154, [email protected] or Karin LeMaire 617-510-2365, [email protected]


must be paid for stealing another man’s work, and for placing ambition and success above the important things in life. Olivia Wilde, Zoe Sal-dana, Dennis Quaid and Jeremy Irons also star in this film, directed by Brian Klugman.

R.A.D.I.C.A.L.S.Rated G. In theaters September 10. Ok for kids 7+. Reel Preview: 2.5 out of 5 Reels. http://www.facebook.com/radicalsthemovie.

This family comedy follows eight kids who de-velop their natural talents to superhero levels – smarter, faster, you get the drift. The storyline probably won’t win an Oscar, but the kids and dogs are super cute. Yes, there are dogs. And an evil villain who kidnaps those dogs to pull off the crime of the century. Something to do with using bombs to rob banks and seek global dom-ination. That’s what all villains are after, isn’t it?

Finding Nemo 3DRated G. In theaters 9/14. Ok for kids 5+. Reel Review: 5 out of 5 Reels. http://disney.go.com/finding-nemo/home/.

They’re back! In 3D! If you don’t usually bother seeing older movies re-released in 3D, I’m beg-ging you to go see Finding Nemo in 3D. Not only is this animated Disney/Pixar tale one of my fa-vorite movies of all time, the 3D version makes it brand new all over again. You know the story: When a little clown fish named Nemo (voiced by Alexander Gould) gets nabbed by a passing boat and set up in a dentist’s fish tank in Sydney, Aus-tralia, his timid dad Marlin (Albert Brooks) sets out to find the little guy. Marlin meets a blue tang fish named Dory (Ellen DeGeneres) with short-term memory loss, and together, they cross the ocean and encounter various sea creatures like dangerous jellyfish, mind-numbing seagulls and hip turtles (“Grab shell, dude!”). Meanwhile, there’s a whole theatrical drama taking place in the dentist’s fish tank, where Nemo meets some new friends. Best. Movie. Ever!

department | reel life

House at the End of the StreetPG-13 for intense sequences of violence and terror, thematic elements, language, some teen partying and brief drug mate-rial. In theaters September 21. Ok for kids 15+. Reel Preview: 4 out of 5 Reels. http://www.facebook.com/HouseAtTheEnd.

Jennifer Lawrence has a huge fan base ever since her knock-out performance as Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games earlier this year. In House at the End of the Street, she plays a girl named Elissa who moves with her mom (Elisabeth Shue) to a new town – next door to a house where a young girl murdered her parents. When Elissa befriends the surviv-ing son, she learns the story is far from over. I’m guessing the filmmakers lobbied for a PG-13 rating to draw in all of Lawrence’s fans, but this movie edges towards an R rating. Directed by Mark Tonderai and produced by Aaron Ry-der (Donnie Darko and Memento), look for plot twists, arthouse drama, and lots of thrills.

Hotel TransylvaniaNot yet rated; likely PG. In theaters Sep-tember 28. Ok for kids 7+. Reel Preview: 4 out of 5 Reels. http://www.welcometohotelt.com/.

Here’s a new twist on the whole vampire busi-ness. Dracula (voiced by Adam Sandler) oper-ates a high-end resort where monsters go to get away from it all. Hey, they need a break some-times, too. Anyway, Dracula has a teenage daughter named Mavis (Selena Gomez), and when a human boy (Andy Samberg) discovers the resort and falls for her, Dracula goes into serious overprotective mode. It’s not pretty, but it’s pretty funny. Directed by Genndy Tar-takovsky, who’s worked on Star Wars: Clone Wars, Iron Man 2 and How to Eat Fried Worms, this movie also features the voices of Kevin James, David Space, Fran Drescher, Jon Lovitz, Molly Shannon and Steve Buscemi.

Jane Boursaw is a family entertainment writer specializing in movies, TV and celebrities. Visit her at Reel Life With Jane; follow her on Twitter; become a friend on Facebook; email [email protected].

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701 Market Street WilMington, nC Phone: 910.815.0085 • Fax: 910.815.1095

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1 Saturday Haunted Cotton exchange toursDaily (year Round). Cotton Exchange, Downtown. Experience chills and thrills! Tales of mystery of the Cotton Exchange ghosts. $10/Adults. $8/Students & Seniors. Free/ Under age 12. Visit www.TourOldWilmington.blogspot.com or call 409-4300 for tour information.

go, Jump in a lake! 5k & fun run8am. Southport. The course follows scenic Boiling Springs Lake and ends at Spring Lake Park. $10. Visit www.trifind.com/Races to register.

march of dimes 5k run for Healthier Babies8am. TrySports Field, Mayfaire. Register at 7am day of race. Proceeds support research and educational programs giving every baby a healthy start. Visit www.wilm-ingtonroadrunners.org for information.

riverfront farmer’s market8am – 1pm (through 12/22). Water Street Downtown. Features fruits and vegetables from local farmers, plants, herbs, flowers, dairy, meats, baked goods, jams and more. Free admission. Call 538-6223 for more information.

Carolina Beach farmer’s market & art show8am – 1pm Saturdays (through 10/13). Carolina Beach Lake. Come for locally produced fruits and vegetables, plants, baked goods, live entertainment and more. Free parking. Contact [email protected] for details.

one Coffee/tea9am. Port City Java, 2099 Market St. Join ONE (an advocacy organization giving voice for those living in extreme poverty) partic-ipants to learn how to help the community with poverty issues. Contact [email protected] for event details.

labor day arts & Crafts festival9am – 4pm. Middleton Park, Oak Island. 23rd Annual Festival featuring more than 100 art-ists and craft vendors displaying art, pottery, stained glass, needlecraft, photography, jewelry, toys and more. Call 201-4090 or visit www.oakislandartguild.org for more information.

toys & games exhibit9am – 5pm (through 9/9). Cape Fear Museum. An exhibit for everyone with toys here, games there, and fun everywhere. $7/Adults. $4/Ages 3-17. Free/Under Age 3. Call 798-4367 or visit www.capefearmuseum.com for details.

progday10:30am – 7:30pm. Jones Ferry Rd, Chapel hill. Annual outdoor festival of progressive music featuring artists from all over the world. Visit www.progday.net for more information.

screen gems studios tour12 & 2pm. Screen Gems Studios, 1223 N 23rd St. Learn how filming is done and view sets from previous productions. One hour walking tour. Arrive 15 minutes prior to tour time. $12/Adults. $5/Ages 5-12. Reservations not required. Call 343-3433 or visit www.screengemstudios.com.

learning Center: ocean adventures1 - 4pm. Cape Fear Museum. Explore ocean science. Examine local shells, use magnifica-tion tools to examine sea life, and more. Free for members or with Museum admis-sion. All ages. Contact 798-4362 or visit www.capefearmuseum.com for details.

“the most Happy fella” musical8 – 10pm. Thalian hall Main Stage. Opera

house Theatre Company presents a musical filled with fun, romance and a happy end-ing. Tickets $25. Call 632-2285 or visit www.thalianhall.org for details.

“songs for a new world”8 – 10pm. Cameron Art Museum. Exquisitely crafted score of today’s popular music. $24. Call 395-5999 or visit www.cit-ystagenc.com for event details.

2 Sunday County attraction day - airlie gardens 9am - 5pm. Airlie Gardens. Visit the parks and Arboretum for a full day of family fun. Contact 798-7700 or visit www.airliegar-dens.org for more information.

museum Carts1 – 3pm. Cape Fear Museum. Explore arti-facts, conduct experiments, and play fun games at facilitated carts stationed throughout the Museum. All ages. Call 798-4350 or visit www.capefearmuseum.com for information.

County attraction day - Cape fear museum1 – 5pm. Cape Fear Museum. NhC residents are admitted free to the Museum the first Sunday of every month. Call 798-4350 or visit www.capefearmuseum.com for information.

young writer’s Club2pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. Experiment with writing activities. “What’s the Ending?” Free with admission. Call 254-3534 to reserve a spot. Visit www.playwilm-ington.org for details.

“the most Happy fella” musical3 – 5pm. Thalian hall Main Stage. See 09/01.

“songs for a new world”3 – 5pm. Cameron Art Museum. See 09/01.

movies by the lake8:45pm. Carolina Beach Lake Park. “Journey 2 the Mysterious Island” (PG). Free movie every Sunday evening. Bring a chair. Visit www.plea-sureislandnc.org for complete event list.

3 Monday (Labor Day Holiday)

little sprouts story time10am. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “The Carrot Seed.” Preschoolers meet new people, hear wonderful stories, and enjoy an activity. Visit www.playwilmington.org or call 254-3534 to pre-register.

Brilliant sky story time10:30am Mondays. Mayfaire Town Center. Visit www.brilliantskytoys.com or contact 509-3353 for details.

go green engineer team3:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Marble Roller Coaster.” hands-on challeng-es that focus on the engineering design process using simple materials. Ages 5-9. Visit www.playwilmington.org or call 254-3534 to pre-register.

4 Tuesday leland’s little learners9 – 10am Tuesdays. Town of Leland. Enjoy story time, arts & crafts, and playground time. Free. Ages 3-5 (parents/guardians remain with children). Contact 332-4823 to pre-register.lap sit story time9:30am. Main Library. Designed for babies under 18 months. Features stories, songs, rhymes and activities. No reservations required. Call 798-6303 for more information.

Barnes & noble story time10am Tuesdays. Barnes & Noble. Enjoy weekly story time in the Children’s section. Call 509-1880 for details.

toddler story time10am. Main Library. Children 18 - 36 months are invited to story time. Enjoy stories, songs, and pre-literacy activities. No reservations required. Call 798-6303 for further details.

Baby musik10 - 11am. Learning Express Toys, 3804 Oleander. Music and playful movement for newborns to age 1-½ and a caregiver. Taught by Kindermusik educator, Karen Stirnitzke. Free with reservations. Call 313-3100 for more information.

preschool story time10:30am. Main Library. Ages 3-5 come for stories, finger play, and songs. No registra-tion required. Groups welcomed. Call 798-6303 with questions.

kids Cooking Club3:30 - 4:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Pesto Macaroni Soup.” harris Teeter sponsors this fun of learning new skills and seasonal recipes. Visit www.play-wilmington.org for details. Call 254-3534 to pre-register.

pooch plunge4 – 8pm. Legion Pool. Swimming pool open to canines. $5. Call 341-0054 for details.

family night 5:30 – 7pm. Chick-fil-A Mayfaire. Call 256-0854 or visit www.cfarestaurant.com/may-faire for event information.

5 Wednesdayartblast!Daily (through 9/9). Various locations downtown. Join the 5-day celebration with performances in genres of theatre, film, lit-erature, music and art. Visit www.artblast-wilmington.com for more information.

poplar grove farmer’s market 8am – 1pm (through 11/21). Poplar Grove Plantation. Featuring fresh local fruits and veggies, dairy products, meats and cheeses, baked goods, plus arts and crafts, cut flow-ers, and more. Free admission. Visit http://poplargrove.com for details.

lap sit story time9:30 – 9:50am. Myrtle Grove Library. Designed for babies under 18 months. Features stories, songs, rhymes and activi-ties. No reservations required. Call 798-6393 for more information.

preschool science10am. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Magic Mud – Cornstarch & Water.” hands-on activities for preschoolers to explore the world around them! Call 254-3534 or visit www.playwilmington.org to pre-register.

nutrition & weaning10am. Wrightsville Beach United Methodist Church, 4 Live Oak Dr. Join the La Leche League for a morning of information. Babies welcome. Call 375-9555 for details.

Chinese for tots10am. Learning Express, Military Cutoff. Chinese language workshop for ages 6 months to 5 years taught by Accents on Fun. Free with res-ervations. Call 509-0153 to pre-register.

toddler story time10 – 10:20am. Myrtle Grove Library. Children 18 - 36 months are invited to

story time. Enjoy stories, songs, and pre-lit-eracy activities. No reservations required. Call 798-6393 for further details.

preschool story time10:30 – 10:55am. Myrtle Grove Library. Ages 3-5 come for stories, finger play, and songs. No registration required. Groups wel-comed. Call 798-6391 with questions.

discover science3:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Make Sidewalk Chalk.” Explore and learn about the scientific process through critical thinking. Call 254-3534 or visit www.play-wilmington.org to pre-register.

mini math4pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. Familiarizing children with math concepts. Call 254-3534 to reserve a spot. Visit www.playwilmington.org for weekly details.

pooch plunge4 – 8pm. Legion Pool. See 09/04.

6 Thursday lapsit storytime9:30 – 9:45am. Northeast Library. Babies 3 - 18 months enjoy fun stories and songs. No registration required. Call 798-6373 for more information.

storyCooks10am. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Ten Apples Up on Top – Apple Dip.” Cooking club for preschoolers. Read a story and create a dish inspired by the book. Call 254-3534 to pre-register.

french for tots10am. Learning Express, 3804 Oleander. French language workshop for ages 6 months to 5 years taught by Accents on Fun. Free with reservations. Call 313-3100 to pre-register.

toddler story time10 – 10:20am. Northeast Library. Children ages 18 – 36 months join others for sto-ries, songs and other fun activities. No reg-istration required. Call 798-6373 for details.

Bi-lingual story time10:30am. Main Library. Preschoolers and their adult chaperones enjoy stories and songs in Spanish and English. Call 798-6301 for details.

preschool story time10:30 – 11am. Northeast Library. Ages 3 to 5 years are invited to enjoy a different weekly theme. Includes stories, songs, and activities. No pre-registration. Call 798-6373 with questions.

start with a story3:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Ten Apples Up on Top – Apple Prints.” Create a masterpiece that reinforces a fun book. Call 254-3534 or visit www.playwilm-ington.org with questions.


7 Fridayfree friday field trips9 – 11am. Mason Inlet, N. Lumina Ave. Join Audubon NC naturalists on a free guided tour of the sanctuary. Get close-up looks at nesting birds and chicks. Call 686-7527 for details.

Hobby greenhouse fall plant sale9am – 6pm. 2318 Metts Ave, Forest hills.

All plants grown by members with portion of the profits helping with scholarships for local college horticulture students. Free admission. Visit www.hobbygreenhouseclub.org for more information.

toddler time10am. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Sparkle Squeeze Paint.” Projects and activ-ities for ages 4 and under and their spe-cial grownups to work on together. Call 254-3534 or visit www.playwilmington.org for more information.

family yoga10:30 – 11am. Main Library. Parents & children 6 months and older listen to sto-ries while stretching and learning basic yoga postures. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a mat or towel. No registration. Call 798-6353 for details.

american legion fish fry11am – 7pm. American Legion Post 129. $8/plate includes whiting fillet or catfish, hush puppies, slaw, potato salad and drink. Call 458-4253 for more information.

adventures in art3:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Observation Illustration.” Experience differ-ent forms of art each week. Ages 5-8. Space is limited. Call 254-3534 to pre-register.


airlie Concert series6 – 8pm. Airlie Gardens. Enjoy the music of Stardust. Tickets $8/Adults. $2/Children. Free parking for Airlie members. Contact 798-7700 or visit www.airliegardens.org for details.

Barnes & noble story time7pm Fridays. Barnes & Noble. Enjoy weekly story time in the Children’s section. Call 509-1880 for details.

“the most Happy fella” musical8 – 10pm. Thalian hall Main Stage. See 09/01.


8 Saturday Katie B. Hines senior Center pancake Breakfast7:30 – 11:00am. Senior Center. $6 includes pancakes, sausage, eggs, juice and coffee. Call 458-6609 for details.

sea trail 10k, 5k, & 1-mile fun run8am. Sunset Beach. $25. Register at www.active.com.

riverfront farmer’s market8am – 1pm (through 12/22). Downtown. See 09/01.

nC gourd arts & Crafts festival9am – 5pm. NC State Fairgrounds, Raleigh. 71st Annual Festival featuring gourds from around the world including workshops, ven-dors, books and more. $2/Adults. Free/Under age 16. Visit www.ncgourdsociety.org/festival for event information.

advantages of Breastfeeding10am. Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard, Bldg B Rm 3. Join the La Leche League for information. Babies wel-come. Call 375-9555 for details.volleyball olympic Challenge10am. Capt’n Bill’s, Market St. Tournament of 4-person teams competing for prizes. Proceeds benefit Amigos International. Contact 341-0007 to register.


pooch plunge10am – 2pm. Legion Pool. See 09/04.

intercultural festival10am – 4pm. Odell Williamson Auditorium, Brunswick Community College. Event includes International Pavilion, food tasting ($6), entertainment (musicians, dancers and more). Free admission. Call 842-6566 for details.

10th annual artwalk10am – 5pm. Front Street, down-town. Enjoy the outdoor art festival with a wide range of artwork on display. Visit www.coolwilmington.com for more information.

screen gems studios tour12 & 2pm. Screen Gems Studios, 1223 N 23rd St. See 09/01.

learning Center: ocean adventures1 - 4pm. Cape Fear Museum. See 09/01.

Coharie annual pow-wow3 – 11pm. Clinton, NC. A celebration of the Coharie Indian culture including dance and drum competitions, arts and crafts, Native American food, and more. Call 564-6909 for event details.

tennis day3:30 – 10pm. Empie Park Tennis Complex. Celebrate a family-friendly day of tennis activities and perfor-mances. Free admission. Call 341-4631 for event schedule.

wilmington tigers vs. nC stallions7pm. Legion Stadium. Don’t miss a family night of football. Call 233-7300 for details.

danCeblast8pm. Community Arts Center. Forward Motion Dance Company and Dance Cooperative and local commu-nity dancers showcase performances. $5. Contact [email protected] for details.

“the most Happy fella” musical8 - 10pm. Thalian hall Main Stage. See 09/01.


9 Sunday (Grandparent’s Day)

nC gourd arts & Crafts festival9am – 5pm. NC State Fairgrounds, Raleigh. See 09/08.

volleyball tournament12pm. Courts & Sports, 3525 Lancelot Lane, Wilmington. Recreational Beach Volleyball and Cornhole Tournament to benefit Easter Seals UCP of NC. Admission $30 to $120. Call 239-1302 for more information.

grandparent’s day1 – 5pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. Children and Grandparents share time honoring this special day through fun and activities. Free with admission. Call 254-3534 or visit www.playwilmington.org for details.

young writer’s Club2pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. See 09/02.

“the most Happy fella” musical3 – 5pm. Thalian hall Main Stage. See 09/01.“songs for a new world”3 – 5pm. Cameron Art Museum. See 09/01.

10 Monday little sprouts story time

10am. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “On Earth.” See 09/03.

go green engineer team3:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Earth Friendly Bird house.” See 09/03.

family reading night5:30pm. Main Library. Reading night with Mr. Scooter for families with pre-schoolers. Call 798-6301 for details.

Cpr Class6 – 9pm. Leland Town hall Classroom Annex. Free class with purchase of the CPR manual. Call 332-4823 to reserve a spot.

11 Tuesdaylap sit story time9:30am. Main Library. See 09/04.

toddler story time10am. Main Library. See 09/04.

Baby musik10 - 11am. Learning Express Toys, Military Cutoff. Music and playful move-ment for newborns to age 1-½. Taught by Kindermusik educator, Karen Stirnitzke. Free with reservations. Call 509-0153 for more information.

Brilliant sky story time10:30am. Brilliant Sky. Enjoy story time, games and crafts.

preschool story time10:30am. Main Library. See 09/04.

kids Cooking Club3:30 - 4:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Miso Almond Dipping Sauce and Veggies.” See 09/04.

family night 5:30 – 7pm. Chick-fil-A Mayfaire. See 09/04.

american girl night7pm. Barnes & Noble. Meet McKenna, discuss American Girl books, enjoy a craft activity and have fun. Free. Contact 509-1880 for more information.

12 Wednesday airlie Bird Hike8 – 9:30am. Airlie Gardens. Free to members or free with Garden admis-sion. $5/Adults & $3/Children (ages 6-12 years). Bring your own binocu-lars. Bird guides provided. Visit www.airliegardens.org or call 798-7700 for more information.

poplar grove farmer’s market 8am – 1pm. Poplar Grove Plantation. See 09/05.

lap sit story time9:30 – 9:50am. Myrtle Grove Library. See 09/05.

preschool science10am. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Oobleck vs. PVA Slime.” See 09/05.

Chinese for tots10am. Learning Express, 3804 Oleander. Chinese language classes for ages 6 months to 5 years taught by Accents on Fun. Free with reserva-tions. Call 313-3100 to pre-register.

toddler story time10 – 10:20am. Myrtle Grove Library. See 09/05.

preschool story time10:30 – 10:55am. Myrtle Grove Library. See 09/05.discover science3:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Slime Time.” See 09/05.

rap Club3:30 – 4:30pm. Myrtle Grove Library. Choose the beat. Write the

lyrics. Record a song. Work as a group to compose an original hip hop song about the library. Ages 6-12. Call 798-6391 with questions.

mini math4pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. See 09/05.

13 Thursday lapsit storytime9:30 – 9:45am. Northeast Library. See 09/06.

french for tots10am. Learning Express, Military Cutoff. French language workshop for ages 6 months to 5 years taught by Accents on Fun. Free with reserva-tions. Call 509-0153 to pre-register.

storyCooks10am. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “The Donut Chef – Glaze for Donuts.” See 09/06.

toddler story time10 – 10:20am. Northeast Library. See 09/06.

Bi-lingual story time10:30am. Main Library. See 09/06.

preschool story time10:30 – 11am. Northeast Library. See 09/06.

start with a story3:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Swimmy – Fish Prints.” See 09/06.

5k race for preservation6:30pm. Best Western Coastline Inn. A run hosted by historic Wilmington Foundation. Proceeds allow hWF to continue mission of preservation of local historic resources. $25/pre-reg-ister. $30/day of race. $20 per per-son/Teams of 5+. Register at www.historicwilmington.org.

14 Friday toddler time10am. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Nature Painting.” See 09/07.

family yoga10:30 – 11am. Main Library. See 09/07.

adventures in art3:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Leafy Crayon Resist.” See 09/07.

touch of Class Charity auction5pm. Courtyard Marriott. 12th Annual event includes silent auction, dinner and live auction. Call 458-8434 for event information.

Jazz at the mansion6:30pm. Bellamy Mansion. Relax on the lawn and enjoy the music of the New hanover high School Jazz Band. Bring blanket and snacks. $12/General Public. $8/Members. $5/Students. Call 251-3700 for tickets.

“guys & dolls”7pm. Community Arts Center. Don’t miss the children’s musical. Contact [email protected] for details.

15 Saturday walk a mile in Her shoes8am. Elijah’s Restaurant, 2 Ann St. Fundraiser and family event where men literally walk a mile in women’s high heels to protest violence against women. $15 - $20. Contact 392-6936 or visit http://supportrcc.org/walk-a-mile.html to register.riverfront farmer’s market8am – 1pm (through 12/22). Downtown. See 09/01.

pier to pier swim9am. Wrightsville Beach. 1.7-mile point-to-point ocean swim race. $55

before 09/15. Visit www.setupevents.com or www.wilmingtonfamilyymca.org/events for registration information.

kidz ‘n power 2012Don’t miss this unique semi-annual Event at New heights Taekwondo ATA Academy on September 15th at 9am during children safety month. Our Stranger-Danger and Abduction Prevention Programs is an original mixture of fitness workout, useful self-defense tips and moves for children and parents, lots of FUN for kids. Cost $5.00 (help us to provide school sup-plies for a few children in Ogden Area schools!) Refreshments and snacks included. Space is limited, Please, call for reservations: 910.399.4973. Together we can keep our community safe!

Bugfest9am – 7pm. NC Museum of Natural Science. Learn what a bug is and why they are important in this free family-friendly event. Call (919) 707-8080 for details.

summer walking tour10am – 12pm. Oakdale Cemetery, 520 N. 15th St. historical walking tour of NC’s oldest rural cemetery. $8/Non-Members. Free/Members. Call 762-5682 or visit www.oakdaleceme-tery.org for more information.


literacy live from the alphabet1 – 3pm. UNCW Watson College of Education. Enjoy ABC story favorites and explore the science of language. Learn how speech organs help pro-nounce letter sounds. Ages 4-7. Free. Contact 962-7291 or visit http://library.uncw.edu/cmc/literacy_live for required pre-registration.


Hubb’s Corn maze1 – 11pm (weekends through 11/04). 10444 hwy 421, Clinton. Come for the incredible corn maze, Farm Show, live entertainment, pumpkin patch and more family fun. Admission $6 - $16. (Fridays 6-11pm/Saturdays 1-11pm/Sundays 1-6pm) Call 564-6709 or visit www.hubbscornmaze.com with questions and directions.

Jay Johnson, ventriloquist2pm & 8pm. Thalian hall. Presenting The Two and Only! Featuring Jay Johnson and his puppet, Bob, along with nine additional puppets for a delightful per-formance. $28. Call 632-2285 or visit www.thalianhall.org for tickets.

docutime film festival4pm. UNCW King hall. 3rd Annual Mini Film Festival. $10/General Public. Free/UNCW students with valid ID. Contact 256-0253 for film specifics.

family fun fest & BBQ4 – 7:30pm. Church of the Servant, 4925 Oriole Drive. Carnival and din-ner fundraiser includes $10/BBQ or vegetarian dinner and fun activities including cakewalk, dunking booth, corn hole and more. Call 470-1876 for details.

wilmington tigers vs. virginia Crusaders7pm. Legion Stadium. Don’t miss a family night of football. Call 233-7300 for details.“guys & dolls”7pm. Community Arts Center. See 09/14.

16 Sunday nHrmC Cancer survivors’ Celebration

Call 910-685-5137

Abby Kampschroeder Age 7

• drawing • painting

Nationally Recognized, Professional Artist & Art Educator Carolyn Faulkner

Art Classes

Kids ClassesAdult Classes

Young Artist’s Series

3803 Wrightsville Ave #8, Downey Branch Office Park

www.studiocartist.com

To all the parents and young artists, thank you for

appreciating me.


1 – 4pm. NhRMC Zimmer Cancer Center. Cancer survivors, their caregiv-ers, family & friends are invited to cel-ebrate with live music and entertain-ment, to visit with physicians, nurses and providers, and to share their per-sonal messages of hope, courage and triumph. Visit www.nhrmc.org/celebrate or call 815-5188 to register.

Cape fear skies: fall Constellations1:30, 2:30 & 3:30pm. Cape Fear Museum. Investigate fall constellations and discover how to locate these “sea-sonal pictures.” Parent participation required. Free with admission. All ages. Call 798-4357 or visit www.capefear-museum.com for more information.


“guys & dolls”3pm. Community Arts Center. See 09/14.

17 Monday little sprouts story time10am. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Rumble in the Jungle.” See 09/03.

ask a master gardener10:30am – 1pm. hampstead Library. Call 270-4603 for details.

autumn Harvest tea2pm. Bellamy Mansion Museum. Enjoy tea and treats in the formal parlors of the Museum. $30 - $35. Call 251-3700 or visit www.bellamymansion.org for reservations.

go green engineer team3:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Target Practice – Build a Catapult.” See 09/03.

family reading night5:30pm. NE Library. Reading night with Mr. Scooter for families with pre-schoolers. Call 798-6373 for details.

18 Tuesday lap sit story time9:30am. Main Library. See 09/04.

the art of Breastfeeding & overcoming difficulties10am. Grace United Methodist Church, 4th & Grace. Join La Leche League for an informational evening. Babies welcome. Call 375-9555 for more information.




kids Cooking Club3:30 - 4:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Corny Corn Cakes.” See 09/04.

family reading night5:30pm. Carolina Beach Branch. Reading night with Mr. Scooter for families with preschoolers. Call 798-6385 for details.


a taste of the town5:30 – 8:30pm. Thalian hall Main Lobby. Fifteen of Downtown Wilmington’s finest restaurants partner with Thalian to present an opportunity for patrons to sample fare from each restaurant. $40. Visit www.thalianhall.com for list of participants.

lung Cancer support group6pm. Myrtle Grove Library Conference Room. Current patients, survivors, care-takers, and concerned family members are welcomed. Free. Contact 233-4945 or [email protected] to register.

19 Wednesday poplar grove farmer’s market 8am – 1pm. Poplar Grove Plantation. See 09/05.


preschool science10am. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Rescue Mission – Design a hook.” See 09/05.


makin’ music10 – 11am. Learning Express, 3804 Oleander. Themed musical fun for ages 1 ½ - 5 and a caregiver. Led by licensed Kindermusik educator, Karen Stirnitzke. Free. Call 313-3100 to reserve a spot.

Black river Cruise10am – 2pm. 101 S. Water Street. See 09/05.

preschool story time10:30 – 10:55am. Myrtle Grove Library. See 09/05.

discover science3:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Science & Technology hunt.” See 09/05.

rap Club3:30 – 4:30pm. Myrtle Grove Library. See 09/12.


20 Thursday Cpr Class9am – 12pm. Leland Fire & Rescue, 1004 Village Rd. Free class with pur-chase of the CPR manual. Call 332-4823 to reserve a spot.

lapsit storytime9:30 – 9:45am. Northeast Library. See 09/06.

storyCooks10am. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Apples, Apples, Apples – Apple Sauce.” See 09/06.




start with a story3:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “The Donut Chef – Design a Donut and Chef hats.” See 09/06.

the family & the Breastfed Baby7pm. Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard, Bldg B Rm 3. Join the La Leche League for breast-feeding education. Babies and Dads welcome! Call Julia at 791-2853 for more information.

magic tree House night7 - 8pm. Barnes & Noble. Discuss the book hour of the Olympics. Contact 509-1880 for more information.


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get back into the swim of things with

MarineQuest School Programs! Marine Explorers and other school programs start in September.

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21 Friday toddler time10am. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Apple Prints.” See 09/07.


adventures in art3:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Artist Trading Cards.” See 09/07.

17th Birthday Celebration4 – 5pm. Learning Express Toys, Military Cutoff. Enjoy a visit from The Lorax and a special Story Station with yellow Mustaches. Bring a camera! Call 509-0153 for more information.

airlie Concert series6 – 8pm. Airlie Gardens. Enjoy the music of The Imitations. See 09/07.

fourth friday gallery night6 – 9pm. Downtown Wilmington. A self-guided tour through several Wilmington galleries and studios. Includes artist dis-cussions, live music, wine tasting and other art-based activities. Call 343-8997 for more information.

galactic in Concert7pm. Greenfield Amphitheater. Features Corey Glover of Living Colour. Tickets $25. Call 332-0983 for details.


alumni Benefit recital7:30 – 9:30pm. UNCW Beckwith Recital hall. UNCW’s Department of Music Alumni presents an evening of jazz and classical music. $10/Ticket. Free/Students with UNCW ID. Call 962-3415 for tickets.

anderson Cooper’s 360 world view8pm. Durham Performing Arts Center. CNN anchor, daytime talk show host and best-selling author gives a lecture/Q&A discussion on the political state of the country and current events. Tickets $55 and up. Call (919) 680-2787 or visit www.dpacnc.com for more information.

22 Saturday ymCa triathlonAll Day. 321 Causeway Drive. Join or cheer on the biggest race in the Inside-Out Sports NC Triathlon Series and larg-est single distance, one-day event from northern VA to FL. Consists of 1500m swim, 12-mile bike and 5k run. Call 251-9622 or visit www.wilmingtonfami-lyymca.org for registration details.

marine Corps Half marathon7am. Camp Lejeune. $45 until 09/14. $55 after 9/14. $60/Day of Race. Visit www.active.com to register.

autumn 5k8am. Poplar Grove Plantation. Run or walk through beautiful forests. Benefits the Plantation. Registration through 9/10 is $25 and after 9/10 is $30. Call 686-9518 with questions.

riverfront farmer’s market8am – 1pm (through 12/22). Downtown. See 09/01.

nC shell show9am – 5pm. Cape Fear Museum. Experience the largest gathering of shell collections in NC. Learn how to start a collection, where to find shells and more. Free with Museum admis-sion. Visit www.ncshellclub.com or con-tact 798-4368 for event details.

17th Birthday Celebration10 – 11am. Learning Express Toys, 3804 Oleander. Enjoy a visit from The

Lorax and a special Story Station with yellow Mustaches. Bring a camera! Call 313-3100 for more information.



unCw engineering expectations1:30 – 4:30pm. UNCW Social & Behavioral Sciences Bldg. Get “bit” by the engineering bug and discover how insects and spiders inspire new technol-ogies. Design, build and test a bristle-bot for the Beach Buggy Demolition Derby. Ages 7-10. Call 962-2118 for cost. Register at www.uncw.edu/youth/programs/engineeringrobotics.html.

Brian regan, Comedian7pm. Durham Performing Arts Center. Back by popular demand, don’t miss this family-friendly comedian who includes the perfect balance of sophis-ticated writing and physicality. See www.BrianRegan.com for bio. Tickets $50-$65. Call (919) 680-2787 or visit www.dpacnc.com for tickets.

wilmington tigers vs. fayetteville ruff riders7pm. Legion Stadium. Don’t miss a family night of football. Call 233-7300 for details.


wilmington symphony orchestra8 – 9:30pm. UNCW Kenan Auditorium. Visit www.wilmingtonsymphony.org or call 962-3415 for ticket information.

50-year anniversary galaCameron Art Museum. A fundraiser celebrating with food, music, silent auction, and exhibitions. $150/person. Visit www.cameronartmuseum.com for event reservations.

23 Sunday tiaras & treasures1 – 5pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. Dress for a world of Pirates & Princesses and join the magic of a family-fun afternoon, com-plete with bounce house, treasure hunt, boutique, tattoo parlor and more. $20/Member. $25/Non-Member. Free/Parents & Guardians. Call 254-3534 or visit www.playwilmington.org for details.

nC shell show1 – 5pm. Cape Fear Museum. See 09/22.



24 Mondaylittle sprouts story time10am. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Jump Frog Jump.” See 09/03.

pirate story time10:30 – 11:30am. Carolina Beach Branch. Captain Scurvyface is looking for buried treasure. Join the crew for pirate stories, activities and a parade at the beach. Call 798-6385 for more information.

go green engineer team3:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Wind Chimes.” See 09/03.

family reading night5:30pm. Myrtle Grove Library. Reading night with Mr. Scooter for families with preschoolers. Call 798-6393 for details.

25 Tuesdaylap sit story time9:30am. Main Library. See 09/04.




kids Cooking Club3:30 - 4:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Pesto Macaroni Soup.” See 09/04.


26 Wednesdaypoplar grove farmer’s market 8am – 1pm. Poplar Grove Plantation. See 09/05.


preschool science10am. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Make Paper helicopters.” See 09/05.


makin’ music10 – 11am. Learning Express, Military Cutoff. Themed musical fun for ages 1 ½ - 5 and a caregiver. Led by licensed Kindermusik educa-tor, Karen Stirnitzke. Free. Call 509-0153 to reserve a spot.

preschool story time10:30 – 10:55am. Myrtle Grove Library. See 09/05.

discover science3:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Leaf & Chlorophyll Test.” See 09/05.

rap Club3:30 – 4:30pm. Myrtle Grove Library. See 09/12.


Coupon Class6 – 8pm. Leland Classroom Annex, 102 Town hall Dr. Participants receive guidebook and $30 worth of coupons! Contact [email protected] or 332-4823 for details.

royal drummers & dancers of Burundi7pm. UNCW Kenan Auditorium. Arts in Action Performance Series featuring a troupe that has toured the world. Call 962-3500 for ticket information.

27 Thursdaylapsit storytime9:30 – 9:45am. Northeast Library. See 09/06.

storyCooks10am. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Crepes By Suzette – Crepes with Nutella.” See 09/06.




start with a story3:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Pizza at Sally’s– Clay Pizzas.” See 09/06.

28 Fridaytoddler time10am. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Dough Collage.” See 09/07.


adventures in art3:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. “Absorbing Artwork.” See 09/07.

tasty fridays @ tatyana’sCome sample choice foods from Russia, Poland and Europe. Expand your pallet and discover something new, or redis-cover your roots. Free. 5 - 7pm. 125-2 S. Kerr Ave.,Wilmington. 910-791-1622 www.tatyanasdelights.com

girl scout workshop: art smart6 – 8:30pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. Join the Museum staff for an evening of exploring the arts through watercolor, collage, and cre-ating stamps. $16/Girl Scout. $8/Adult. Includes admission, fun patch and dinner. Visit www.playwilmington.org for reservations.

29 Saturdayriverfront farmer’s market8am – 1pm (through 12/22). Downtown. See 09/01.

Battleship alive8am – 5pm. Battleship NC. Watch and interact with WWII living histo-ry interpreters as they bring the Ship to life by reenacting daily duties and drills. Free with Battleship


admission. Call 251-5797 or visit www.battleshipnc.com for details.

Big sweep9am. Various Venues. A part of the International Coastal Cleanup where volunteers spend the morning help-ing clean certain areas of the coun-ty. Bring gloves and reusable water bottle. Free. Register at www.keepnhcbeautiful.org.

marine explorers: “mako” no Bones about it9am – 12pm. UNCW Center for Marine Sciences. Discover fascinating facts and fiction about sharks and explore their anatomy and behavior. Snack provided. Ages 5-8. Call 962-2640 for cost. Register at www.uncw.edu/marinequest.

free museum day9am – 5pm. Children’s Museum of Wilmington. Come for fun as the Museum hosts a free day courtesy of Smithsonian Magazine. Visit www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday to print tickets! Call 254-2534 with questions.

fall Book sale 9am – 5pm (through 10/03). NE Library. Don’t miss the semi-annual book sale. Call 798-6371 for details.

spot festival11am – 6pm. 14211 hwy 17, hampstead. 49th annual event fea-turing music, art, fireworks and more. Dinner includes 2 spot, fries,

slaw, hush puppies, and tea. Proceeds go to Topsail Schools and the hampstead Volunteer Fire Dept. Visit www.ncspotfestival.com for event information.



marine explorers: “mako” no Bones about it1:30 – 4:30. UNCW Center for Marine Sciences. Discover fascinating facts and fiction about sharks and explore their anatomy and behavior. Snack provided. Ages 9-12. Call 962-2640 for cost. Register at www.uncw.edu/marinequest.

todd snider Band5pm. Greenfield Amphitheater. Specializing in comedic alt-country. Tickets $17 - $22. Call 332-0983 for details.

30 Sundayspot festival11am – 5pm. 14211 hwy 17, hampstead. See 09/29.


To submiT evenTs To The calendar, please email [email protected]

deadline for submissions To The ocTober issue is sepTember 9, 2012.

Cover Kids Contest wilmingtonparent.com

JUMP ON IT!

your child could be the next cover kid

JUST REGister online to RECEIVE FREE EMAIL OFFERS.

wilmingtonparent.com/contests/daily deals

and you’ll be enteredin the contest to have your

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department in the news

in th

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Lung Cancer Support GroupThe Wilmington Area Lung Cancer Support Group is scheduled to meet in the Myrtle Grove

Public Library Conference Room on September 18 at 6pm. Current patients, survivors, caretakers and concerned family & community members are welcomed.

Contact (910) 233-4945 or [email protected] to sign up for this free meeting.

Autumn Harvest TeaThe Bellamy Mansion Museum welcomes the Wilmington community to its Autumn Harvest Tea on September 17 from 2-4pm.

Expect pumpkins, cranberries, crisp leaves, apples and all things “fall”! Enjoy tea and treats in the formal parlors to welcome autumn and to “embrace the pace of yesteryear.”

Please call (910) 251-3700 to place required reservations. All proceeds benefit the Man-sion. Visit www.bellamymansion.org for event details.

50-Year Anniversary GalaThe Cameron Art Museum celebrates its 50-year anniversary on September 22!

Enjoy an unforgettable evening of food, music, silent auction and a series of exhibitions featur-ing pillars of American and North Carolina art.

Admission is $150/person. Visit www.cameronartmuseum.com for event details and ticket purchases.

Volleyball Olympic ChallengeJoin the fun for a full day of competition at Capt’n Bill’s Backyard Grill (Market Street) on

September 8 at 10am.

The tournament features 4-person teams representing countries from around the world and competing for a trophy, gifts, and cash prizes. Music and dancing follow the competition!

Contact (910) 341-0007 or [email protected] to register for the event. Proceeds benefit Amigos International.

Walk a Mile in Her ShoesThe community and family event Walk a Mile in her Shoes will be held in downtown Wilming-

ton (Elijah’s Restaurant) on September 15 at 8am.

The walk benefits the Rape Crisis Center of Coastal Horizons and asks men “Are you man enough?” to wear high heels and literally walk a mile in women’s shoes…to protest rape, sexual assault and gender violence. Women and children are encouraged to join the walk to show the community that violence against women is not acceptable.

Registration Information:$15/person (for teams of 5 to 15 participants - must register at the same time)$20 for individual registration

Contact (910) 392-6936 or [email protected] for event details. Visit http://sup-portrcc.org/walk-a-mile.html to register!


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Wilmington is filled with businesses and individuals with brilliant ideas! If you cruise around Wilmington with an open mind and a birthday party that needs planned, you are guaranteed to find

what you need to make your child’s next birthday party one to remember!

LocationHere are some great spots around town where birthday parties are sure

to be a hit, without being a big hit to the wallet.

• Beaches – I know there’s that whole problem with the messy sand, but what better place to have a surf-inspired party! A few coolers to hold the food, some chairs, umbrellas, and towels – now you have yourself a party! Boogie Boards are great for non-surfers to use, and sand toys can keep some of the smaller kids busy.

• Local Parks – Did you know there are 38 Public Parks in the city of Wilmington? Many of them have shelters, picnic tables, and playgrounds. Call the Parks & Recreation Dept. to find out about reserving space.

• Museums – Local museums have a lot of activities to offer kids and many have party rooms. And it’s nice to know the party fee is going toward a great cause!

• U-Pick Farms – Wilmington and the surrounding areas have quite a few U-Pick Farms. If your child’s birthday happens to be during strawberry or blueberry season, this could be a great place to have a party!

ThemesSometimes coming up with a good theme can

make or break a party. These are a few party theme ideas from some of the staff at Wilmington Parent magazine!

• Surfari – Surf-themed parties are always a big hit with the older kids! Not everyone needs to be a surfer to join in the fun. There’s plenty to do at the beach, and with some sand toys, and a little friend-ly sand castle making contest, you can have a mem-orable birthday at the beach!

• Superhero Training Camp – How can your little muscle-man (or woman) grow up to a superhero with-out the proper training? Capes, masks, and some training activities will have everyone leaving the party ready to save the world!

• Fairy Fun – Little girls love fairies and glitter, and this party has just what they want! Encourage everyone to come in fairy costumes, or provide wings for the guests. Make some cupcakes ahead of time and let all the little fairies decorate their own glittery Fairy Cakes. Collect rocks, leaves, and sticks to glue into a little box. Plant little fairy dolls and sprinkle with glitter. When the party is

over, everyone can take home their little fairy gardens!

• Movie Magic – Movie stars can be found everywhere around Wilmington lately. Why not at your child’s birthday party? Plan a movie filming day for your next party by letting the guests act out some fun party scenes! Have everyone take turns running the camera, putting on make-up, and picking out wardrobe. After it’s all done, put the footage together on a disc and send

it home as a unique memento!

• CSI Scavenger Hunt – Send guests on a scavenger hunt for clues to solve what-

ever mystery your imagination can concoct! It can be adjusted for

different ages and works for any venue.

Party FavorsHere are some fresh ideas for the

goody bags! These memorable party favors won’t add to the clutter and parents

will be ever so grateful!

• Book Store Gift Cards – instead of spend-ing $5-$10 on little trinkets that will be

thrown away in a week, let them shop for a book they will treasure.

• Crafts – choose an age appropriate craft for each child. (Buy extras to avoid sad party guests when the inevitable

mistakes happen.) Keeps kids busy dur-ing the party and gives them something special to take home.

• Gardening – Go green! Purchase little pots for kids to decorate, and seeds or small plants for kids to plant.

• Fancy Nancy Wraps – Owned by a Wilmington mom, these personalized candy bars are a cute way to say

“Thanks for helping me celebrate my birthday!”

• T-Shirts – Let the kids decorate their own tie dye t-shirts to take home after the party.

• Theme related goodies – Capes for super heroes, magic wands for wiz-

ards, anything that allows the party guests to continue the fun at home! v

Source - Staff at Wilmington Parent magazine


SPECIAL SECTION

: Birthda

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Brilliant Birthday Club!Grab a bin and fill it up! Get a FREE goody bag!Receive registry reminders for your invitations!After the party Mom and Dad receive 15% Off everything left in the bin! Ask sales associate for details.

Free Gift Wrapping

Find your way to play!

(910)509-3353 • [email protected] Town Center 6864 Main St Wilmington, NC

Thank You Wilmington Parent readers for naming us Family Favorite 2012!

For more than six generations, the Longordo family has been baking everything from pasta to breads, cakes, and cookies. Apple Annie’s

Bake Shop has been known as one of the finest in the country and has been named the

National Retail Bakery of the Year.

Apple Annie’s Bake Shop makes tasty and beautiful cakes for all events and occasions. It’s

a toss up whether they taste better than they look or if it’s the opposite way around!

Landfall Shopping Center1319 Military Cutoff Road

Wilmington, NC910-256-6585

www.appleanniesbakeshop.com

University Square Mall837 South Kerr Avenue

Wilmington, NC910-799-9023

Also Featuring...

Pick A Show...

Any show

9 1 0 . 2 0 0 . 5 3 0 0www.NoSleeveSMagic.coM


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Gifts and Gift Registry

Brilliant Sky Toys and BooksMayfaire Town Center6864 Main StWilmington [email protected] into locally owned Brilliant Sky Toys and Books and dis-cover something different, with a focus on enrichment, enlight-enment and enjoyment. It’s not just a toy store it’s a play store and everybody likes to play! Featuring toys by Corolle, John Deere, Schleich, Lego, Mogo, Thames & Kosmos, Ugly Doll, Ty, Usborne Books, Kumon, hape, Tolo, and Webkins.

Downtown Darlings112 Market Street Unit AWilmington, NC 28401910-251-2233www.downtowndarlings.netDowntown Darlings offers free baby, birthday or any occa-sion gift registry. Come into the store and have your child fill a gift bag with treasured and coveted items. Provide us with a list of people to notify about the regis-try and we will be happy to email them. Shop online and pick up in store for select items. We also offer free dis-tinctive and stylish gift wrapping. See how quick, easy, and convenient our service really is.

Learning ExpressProgress Point, 1437 Military Cutoff RdWilmington, NC 28403910-509-0153 orOleander Place, 3804 Oleander Dr.Wilmington, NC 28403910-313-3100www.learningexpresstoys.com/wilmington/Learning Express offers a Birthday Wish Box gift registry for kids who love to make birthday wishes. It’s popular with kids and convenient for busy parents who can also call and shop by phone. The birthday child fills a jumbo bucket with wished-for toys ten days before his/her party and receives a personalized mini-box filled with treats. A “Birthday Box” is created, and friends and family can call or come in and choose a gift from the child¹s box. The elves at Learning Express will help with party favors, per-sonalize, and even wrap your gifts, free of charge. Birthday kids can also make an online wish list and email it to friends and relatives.

Cakes

Apple Annie’s Bake ShopLandfall Shopping Center1319 Military Cutoff RoadWilmington, NC910-256-6585University Square Mall837 South Kerr AvenueWilmington, NC910-799-9023http://www.appleanniesbakeshop.comApple Annie’s Bake Shop makes tasty and beautiful cakes for all events and occasions. If you have an idea or an inspiration for a cake, stop by and see us at either of our locations and place your order. Bring a photo of an object you would like to see on a cake and we’ll show you what we can do for you. We make cakes for all kinds of special events, for example: baby showers, wedding showers, and so on. We make cakes that resemble animals and other objects, such as “hamburger cakes”, “frog cakes”, “photo cakes”, “zoo cakes”, zebra cakes”, and more. If you have an idea, please bring it in and we will make it a reality for you.

Tidal Creek Co-op5329 Oleander Drive910-799-2667www.tidalcreek.coopOpen 7- days a week, Mon- Sat 8-8, Sun 9-8Celebrate your special occasion with a Tidal Creek Cake. Our cakes are made from scratch with quality, all natural, ingredients. Whether you desire a Vegan, Gluten free, or even an old fashioned butter cake, our cakes are deli-

ciously tailored to meet your dietary needs. Also check out our selection of earth friendly gifts.

Icy Party Treats

Kona-Ice of Coastal Carolina, LLC910-270-2575www.kona-ice.comfacebook.com/kona.ice.cctwitter.com/KonaIceCCKona Ice is a one of a kind experience that serves a premi-um tropical shaved ice; the finest icy treat on the planet. This is NOT your typical lack-luster snow cone. Our flavors are bold & delicious... like nothing you’ve ever had! Kona Ice is dairy-free, gluten-free and we even offer flavors that are sug-ar-free and dye-free! What really sets Kona Ice apart is our patented FlavorWave®! Those top 10 flavors that yOU can apply yourself!! Or choose from over 50 custom flavors we can create for you! Kona-Ice can do anything with fundraising or fun – sports leagues, school events, festivals and fairs, school sports, birthday parties, corporate events, picnics, church events, block parties, daycares and preschools. Contact us to schedule your event today!

Artsy Parties

Mini MonetsMini Monets BirthdaysGreater Wilmington Area910-399-1708www.minimonets.wordpress.comDoes your artistic child have a birthday coming up? Why not celebrate with an art project designed especially with your child in mind! Art projects range from drawing to painting and clay and are created with the help of your child. Mini Monets will come to your party, bring all the supplies and materials, and the party guests get to keep what they make! Children 2 - 12 years old enjoy projects and the cost is $100 for up to 10 children. Please call or email for more details. I look forward to seeing you soon.

Magic Parties

It’s Magic!No Sleeves Magic910-200-5300www.nosleevesmagic.comVoted Wilmington’s Best Party Entertainer since 2006! If you want to give your child one of the craziest and most FUNnominal Parties they will never forget, then take a RUN on the Wacky-Side with No Sleeves Magic. We provide an adrenaline rush of Magic mixed with comedy that’s great for the whole family. Some party packages include goodie bags, tricks, games & more! So, Sit Back, Relax and Laugh, while No Sleeves makes your event a success!To find out which package is best for you, contact one of our PARTyOLOGISTS or visit our website. We have different themes to suit your event and even offer magic telegrams as well as summer magic camps programs.

Sports Parties

Off the Wall SportsDutch Square203 Antilles CourtWilmington, NC 28405(910) [email protected] for an exciting birthday party idea for your active child? Why not have a sport-themed birthday party at Off The Wall? yes, Wilmington has a new home for indoor sporting fun! A lot of work has gone into revamp-ing our facility and it is now available for events and birthday party rentals - for those young and young at heart! So please keep us in mind when you’re contem-plating ideas for a fun party for all! Off the Wall offers soccer, volleyball, dodgeball and team handball, along with an assortment of children’s programs, after-school pro-grams and personal training and fitness instruction. We also hope to have specialty clinics with regard to the

variety of sports played at The Wall. We look forward to seeing you soon. Get ready to enjoy yourself at Off The Wall—where nothing is out of bounds!!

Performance Parties

Performance ClubDirector: LJ Woodard6624 Gordon Road, Studio B Wilmington NC 28411910-338-3378www.PerformanceClubKids.comperformanceclub@me.comIdeal for any young performer that loves to be on the stage “performing” with his/her friends! Performance Parties can come to your birthday party or they can take place at the Performance Club Studio Theater with lights, curtain, stage and music! The theme is your choice for you and 15 guests! From Taylor Swift, Shake it Up, One Direction, “Thriller” … to Broadway Musicals like Annie, Mamma Mia, Mary Poppins, or Pinkalicious – we can do it!

TheatreNOW19 S. 10th StreetWilmington, NC 28401910.399.3NOW (3669)www.theatrewilmington.comreservations@theatrewilmington.comTheatreNOW is Wilmington, NC’s newest attraction and only dedicated dinner theatre venue offering a variety of dinner theatre shows, kid’s shows, live music and movie events every week. Please see our website for a complete listing of what’s happening at TheatreNOW. Group dis-counts and building rental information available.

Ice Skating Parties

The Wilmington Icehouse7201 Ogden Business LaneWilmington, NC 910-686-1987Take a birthday celebration to the next level; throw an ice skating birthday at the coolest place in town! The Wilmington Ice house is the areas only ice skating facility that offers a selection of birthday party packages to suit your party needs. We can take care of the decorations, the food, set-up and the clean up. All you need to worry about is putting on your party skates and having fun, and that’s also included! Give us a call to schedule your next event.

Theme Parties

The Children’s Museum of Wilmington116 Orange StreetWilmington, NC 28401910-254-3534 x [email protected] Museum is pleased to offer parties featuring great themes that provide a worry-free experience for parents and an excit-ing time for children. Our celebrations will make everyone SMILE! Come And Party With Us! - Exclusive use of a private party room for 2 hours (adults are free, however siblings will be counted in the guest total). - Full day admission for all party guests, so children can play after the party. - Children’s Museum of Wilmington birthday invitations and envelopes- Includes a fun, educational activity for all children. (Choose from one of our party themes, listed below)- Party supplies include table decorations – napkins, plates, cups, tablecloths, forks, candles and cake knife.- Each party guest will receive a goody bag full of fun trinkets to remember their day at the Children’s Museum of Wilmington including a FREE child’s return guest pass.- Birthday child will receive a Children’s Museum of Wilmington t-shirt and 4 free guest passes.- Set up and Clean up by CMOW’s friendly staff

Theme PartiesOur themes are exciting and complimented by fun table decora-tions, props and party music. Birthday Parties are held in 2 great locations within The Children’s Museum of Wilmington: Secret Cove under the Sea Room and Make Merry Birthday Room. Both loca-

tions have plenty of room, fun designs and privacy for your child’s special day! Locations are chosen based on availability.- Become a REAL Princess! PRINCESS PARTy: Activity – Make Lip Gloss!- Arrrg! Mateys! PIRATE PARTy: Activity – Go on a Treasure hunt!- Oooooh Ahhhh! SCIENCE PARTy: Activity – Make Slime!- Get Creative! ART PARTy: Activity – Paint on Canvas!

The Wow Factor of Wilmington910-520-7925www.wowfactorofwilmington.com We bring the party to you! Backyards, hospitals, churches, company parties and more… (Military Thank you Discount). Our hostess will set it up and take it all down. We provide all the bells and whistles from table settings, chairs, decora-tions, balloons, party favors, props for photo ops, goodie baskets/bags and all supplies for cake time. All you have to do is be there and enjoy. Our party packages starts at 135.00 for 8 children, 10.00 for each additional child or call for a large group pricing. We have something for every-one. Add-ons available for each party such as a bounce house, a visit from a Princess, special up-dos, mani’s or pedi’s, or a UFO landing in your yard! Parties include:

Princess/Mini Azalea Belle PartyGive your little princess what she deserves with “The Royal Treatment.” Dress up, play with jewels, enjoy glamor-ous table settings and possibly a visit from a Princess!

The Enchanted Tea PartyThis delightful, enchanted party brings out the Fairy or Princess in your little one with porcelain teacups, face painting or a girly craft.

Spa PartyWow The Spa Treatment! They’ll enjoy mini spa facials, hand and foot soak, glitter face art or making spa lotions. Each guest will enjoy a soft luxurious robe, slip-pers, plush pillows, vibrating foot massager, a fun game about the birthday girl, chocolate fountain, platter of goodies, glass bowls of color candy and gumballs.

UFO Laser EncounterI bet you’ve never played laser tag like this before. This party is for the young at heart. The Alien Spaceship has landed…enter at your own risk! We provide the laser guns, laser beams, fog machine, robot props and obstacles so you don’t get tagged or tazed. This is an incredible party during the day or an awesome laser party at night.

Carnival Partyyour guests will enjoy playing backyard carnival games and winning prizes. We’ll provide a pony hops race, sack race, football toss, milk jug toss, fishing game, a visit from our very own Clown Giggles, Clown Joey, balloon animals, carnival tent, candy cart loaded with popcorn, cotton candy, and an assortment of candies.

Indoor Play Parties

Power of PlayLocated at 6644 Gordon Road in Wilmington(910) [email protected] of Play is a children’s entertainment center that offers a variety of services such as after school care, sum-mer camp, intersession camp, birthday parties, group events, private parties, pay to play, drop in care, parent’s night out, swing set and trampoline sales. We have over 14,000 square feet of play space which includes a huge SoftPlay jungle gym, an indoor playground with custom PlayNation play systems, see saws, tricycle track and twelve fantasy play stations. your child will go wild for Power of Play! Our facility is suitable for ages 1-11. $7/child stay-n-play Celebrate your next birthday party with us!

Simply Play3818 Oleander DriveWilmington, NC 28403910-791-0022www.playsimplyplay.com


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112 Market Street • Downtown Wilmington • downtowndarlings.net • 910-251-2233

Extraordinary Parties for your Extraordinary Girl! Book your birthday party at Downtown Darlings Now.

Choose from "18 Doll, Pamper Me Salon, PJ Karaoke, and Princess Parties!

All party packages include a dedicated party host plus all party attendees and the birthday girl receive special items to take home. FREE gift registry and gift wrapping anytime -

not just for parties. Let us handle all the details for your diva. Call us and find out just how easy it is to throw

a Downtown Darlings birthday party!

[email protected] Play offers private birthday parties in their award winning 3200 square foot play center. you are welcome to invite 30 of your closest friends, play for 2 hours and the cost is only $150! Staff members will be available to assist with your party needs and play a few games too! Parents are welcome to bring party decorations and food. We celebrate children ages 1-12. Simply Play birthdays are Simply the Best!

Bouncing Parties

All About Fun Party Rentals, LLC910-471-2277www.allaboutfunonline.comGet your party started with fabulous rentals from All About Fun! We have just what you need for kids of all ages: Pirate Bounce w/ basketball goal, Tropical or Castle Bounce, 3-in-1 Combo, Wet and Dry Slides and a 30’ Slip ‘n Slide! Inflatable rentals range from $150 - $250. New commercial grade Margarita machines plus Sno Cone, Cotton Candy, and Karaoke Machine rent-als are available. Call now for pricing. All About Fun will deliver and set up before your guests arrive and pick up after the excitement is over. Call James Merritt to make yOUR next event All About Fun.

Funtime Inflatables910-200-4685www.FuntimeinflatablesNC.comWe bring the fun to you. Whether it is a Dino bounce house for a child’s birthday party or a large waterside for an adult/kid combination summer fun day. We can do it all. We’re here to make your event a success. We also have adult sumo Suits to add fun and laugher to your next party. We deliv-er, set up, and clean up when it’s over.

Gymnastics Parties

Carolina Gymnastics3529 Carolina Beach Road 910-796-1896 Register online @ www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com Enjoy a private party in the gym! The birthday child and friends can play in the gym, and jump in the inflatables, the tumbletrak, and the foam block pits, while parents relax and socialize. Our coaches supervise gym time and they also help serve cake, clean up, and load presents into your car after the party. A stress free time for parents; a safe and active party place for boys & girls, ages 2-12. Cost is $250 per party for 1.5 hours - unlimited number of children, Saturdays only.

Salon & Make-up Parties

Downtown Darlings112 Market Street Unit AWilmington, NC 28401910-251-2233www.downtowndarlings.net It’s a Girl Thing! All of Downtown Darlings party packages include a dedicat-ed party host, plates, napkins, utensils, candles, and one drink per child. All party attendees and the birthday girl receive special items to take home including keepsake photos. All parties take place in our special laugh-A-Lot Lounge and culminate with cake under the spectacular crystal chandelier. Inquire for times, rates and add-ons.


*

PROGRESS POINT1437 Military Cuto� Rd.

509-0153OLEANDER PLACE3804 Oleander Dr.

313-3100 (Next to Whole Foods)

BIRTHDAY WISHES GRANTED!

Join the Lorax and celebrate our

17th Birthday!Check our Facebook

page for details.

www.wilmington.learningexpresstoys.com

Kids LOVE to make wishes! Parents and friends LOVE the convenience and fun ofshopping from our Birthday Wish Boxes.Bring your child to make birthday wishes ten days before the party, and leave the rest to us!

PlayOffTheWall.com

FF the

Fun Afterschool Care

Picking up from Eaton, Ogden, Blair &Murrayville Elementary Schools.

We will provide a safe and structured environment for kids. The typical afternoon will begin with a snack provided by Off The Wall Sports. After homework is completed, the children will participate in organized games and activities. This will include but is not limited to soccer, dodgeball, and wiffle ball. Games will emphasize fun, teamwork, fitness, and sportsmanship.

We also do BIRTHDAY PARTIES!! You provide the food and we’ll run the games and provide the fun!

Dutch Square, 203 Antilles Court in Wilmington (910) 392-1080 • [email protected]

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Princess Party:Spend a fun filled hour and a half with your friends becoming a princess and being treated like one. you and your friends will make your very own tiaras or sashes and get her photo taken with a royal photographer to as a keepsake memento. Add-ons such as a visit from Ariel, Snow White or Cinderella available.

PJ (“or not”) Karaoke Party:Enjoy spending a fun-filled hour and a half in the Laugh-A-Lot Lounge with your friends (pajamas are optional) while you make a “cool craft” of your choice to take home. you and your friends will also get the chance to test your “Music Star” abilities, singing karaoke and danc-ing to popular hit songs.

“Pamper Me” Party:The birthday girl and her guests will be treated to an enjoyable hour and a half of “pamper me” type activities in the Laugh-A-Lot Lounge. First, all girls will make their very own spa mask or lip gloss (one activity or the other - to be determined by birthday girl).

18” Doll Party:A girly girls dream come true! Bring your own 18” doll to play with, dress up, and laugh and giggle with...a lot! There are two options available, both of which include choosing from a wide selection of store doll outfits to dress up and play and the birthday host parent choosing within a certain predetermined dollar amount for clothes, accessories, and other items. For girls that are invited to the party that do not have an 18” doll, one will be provided for in-store use. Girls without dolls can have same spending allowance set by birthday parent on other store merchandise.

Ribbet – Salon & Shop for Kids3610 S. College RdWilmington, NC [email protected] those girls what they love – the girlie treatment! When she has a salon party at Ribbet, she and her 10 party guests will get a color hair extension, light make-up, glitter sprinkle and a manicure. They’ll choose from our huge selection of polish colors including glow-in-the dark and glitter! No need to worry, all our products, nail polishes and make-up are all natural or organic so they’ll have a naturally beautiful time! Packages range from $185 - $225 and include 2 hours in our party room and complementary use of our DVD player or iPod dock. Feel free to bring your own food or let us create an all-inclu-sive package for you providing pizza and/or cake with all the plates, utensils and drinks for an additional $35-70. Custom packages available, just ask!

Sweet and SassyMayfaire Town Center6800 Main Street, Wilmington, NC 28405910-256-2882Sweet & Sassy is ThE Sweetest Party destination! With 8 themed parties, the hot Pink Sweet & Sassy Limo, and a runway, what could be more fun? Parties are designed for girls, ages 4-13 and include glittery makeovers, free take-home gifts, themed activities, and time in our Cake Place® room. The Birthday Girl always gets extra special treatment and it’s our goal to make it her “Best Birthday Ever”. Additional popular add-ons include: Goodie Bags, Pucker Powder Candy, Make-your-own Spa Items, hot Pink Limo Rides, ear piercing, trendy gift items, spa/salon services, & more!

Nintendo Wii Parties

Ribbet – Salon & Shop for Kids3610 S. College RdWilmington, NC [email protected] yeah, these parties are fun! Both boys and girls enjoy

our party room with four 50” high-definition TV’s each with its own Nintendo Wii so they can play individually or in large groups. We have all the top games (over 40 to choose from!) and accessories including steering wheels, golf clubs, tennis rackets, Dance Dance Revolution pads, Band hero with guitar & drums and microphones for karaoke. They’ll play, dance, swing, jump, sing, drive and jam the time away! Packages range from $140 - $180 and include 10 guests for 2 hours in our party room and complementary use of our iPod dock. Feel free to bring your own food or let us create an all-inclusive package for you providing pizza and/or cake with all the plates, utensils and drinks for an additional $35-70.

Sea-Worthy Parties

North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher900 Loggerhead Rd.Kure Beach, N.C. 28449www.ncaquariums.com/fort-fisher910-458-8257Aquarium Parties or Sleepovers. We can even come to you! Celebrate your child’s special day with a birthday party at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Program birthdays include a T-shirt craft with T-shirts and all art supplies included, a live animal presentation, use of the Aquarium’s classroom and a self-guided tour of the Aquarium. you can choose the following themes for a live animal presentation:- Amphibians – Frogs, toads, salamanders- Reptiles - Turtles, alligators, snakes- Invertebrates – Sea urchins, starfish, crabsCost: $205.00 for up to 12 children and 12 adults, $10.00 for each additional child, $6.80 for each addition-al adult Time Length: 2 hours. Parties are recommended for ages 4-10.

Aquarium Outreach ProgramsLet our education staff bring a fun, interactive program to your classroom or other location. Each program is spe-cifically adapted to fit your needs, customized for age, size and focus of your group. Live animals, props, hands-on learning activities and costumes make Aquarium Outreach parties enriching for groups of all ages.

Registration InformationPlease contact Special Activities Coordinator at 910-458-8257 ext 206 or via email:[email protected] to schedule a birthday party for your child or to arrange an outreach contact the Outreach Coordinator at (910) 458-8257 ext. 236 or email [email protected]

All Aboard Parties

Battleship NORTH CAROLINA910-251-5797www.battleshipnc.comThe best birthday parties are held aboard the Battleship! With the Ship as the playground and party site it’s a playdate your kids won’t forget. Call 910-251-5797 for pricing and availability to see how you can be coolest parent that took all the kid’s to the Battleship!

Princess Parties

Wilmington School of Ballet & Creative Arts Center3834 Oleander DriveWilmington, NC 29403910-794-9590Treat your daughter like the princess she is with a fairy princess birthday party! your princess and her friends will enjoy a day of dress up, runway, dance, crafts, and bounce house time in the birthday rooms at the Wilmington School of Fine Arts. Please see the office for availability and reservation of your birthday party. We will provide the table, chairs, decorations, instructor, princess gear, and loads of fun. you provide refreshments, paper products, & cake. The cost is $150 for 1.5 hour.


794-9590 • www.wilmingtonschoolofballet.com www.musictogether.com

Creative Arts Music Together

794-9590 • www.wilmingtonschoolofballet.com

The Wilmington Preschool of The ArtsEvery day includes art time, music class, movement programming, literature

learning, academic preparation, discovery exploration, and center play.

910- 794-3025 • www.wilmingtonartspreschool.com

Music for the whole family - birth to three

Half & Full Day1 year old to Pre-K

Wilmington School of BalletFrom pre-school to pre-professional

Nutcracker auditioNS

Sept. 8th

www.allaboutfunonline.com

Call James Merritt, LLC

(910) 471-2277

Make your next event

All About Fun!

Like us on facebook

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7201 Ogden Business LaneWilmington NC 28411

910 - 686 - 1987www.wilmingtonice.com

Use this coupon to receive a $10.00 discount

Good for any:Birthday Party Package or“Learn to Skate” Programs

Group lesson programs beginning year round.

Call the rink for info on our “Party Package” options and to schedule your Birthday on ICE !

Visit our website to check out our weekly

Public Skate Sessions !www.wilmingtonice.comPhone: 910 - 686 - 1987 Coupon good through August 31, 2013

INFLATABLE RENTALSOur Party Packages:Fairy Party Package

Spa SpectacularSuper Hero Party

Princess PartyCarnival Party

Harry Potter PartyHarry Potter PartyPirate PartySpace Party

Laser Tag PartyNerf Blast

Polar Express PartyDrive Inn Movie Party

www.wowfactorofwilmington.com

To book: call 910-520-7925

or visit our website

After School Care 2012-2013

After School Care • Summer & Intersession Camp • Birthday Parties

Stay and Play • Drop in Care PlayNation & Gorilla swing set sales

Magic Circle Trampolines

www.powerofplaywilmington.com 910-332-1660 • [email protected]

6644 Gordon Road Wilmington, NC

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OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEKMON-SAT 8-8 SUN 9-85329 Oleander Drive

910.799.2667www.tidalcreek.coop

Celebrate with

Tidal Creek CakesMade from scratch with quality ingredients

All Natural Colors made with Veggies!

from Vegan to Old-Fashioned Butter Cakes

Deliciously Tailored to Meet Your Dietary Needs

Children love to attend birthday parties! They look forward to the entertainment, presents, and of course the cake, ice cream and other goodies that are standard fare at most celebrations. Yet, if

you have a child with food allergies, they often need to skip the cake and snacks offered at the party. Here are some tips for making sure your child doesn’t feel left out!

Plan Ahead• Ask the parent hosting the party what foods will be served. • Talk to your child before the party. Make sure they understand that some of the food at the party will be off-limits. Preparing them will hopefully prevent a meltdown.• Bring along safe foods for your child that match what will be served at the party. • Focus on the event, not the food. Talk to them about the activities that are planned for the party, and who will be there.

During the Party• Arrive early and check out the food table. Point out which foods are safe and which foods need to be avoided. Remind your child that you brought special treats to replace the unsafe foods.• Stay with your child, especially young ones. Parties can be very chaot-ic for the parent hosting the party, and in the excitement children forget. Mistakes can happen too easily!• Don’t forget about candy, piñatas, and goody bags. Always go through them together to determine what is safe and what is not. It’s a great learning opportunity for kids to learn to recognize the packaging of what are unsafe foods for them. • Reinforce the idea that all foods must be “Mom-approved.”• Let them have fun! Establish an “it’s just food” approach to life and focus on the importance of enjoying time with friends and making fun memories!

Dairy-Free Strawberry Cake Ingredients2 cups unbleached flour 1 cup natural cane sugar 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 teaspoon sea salt 4 eggs 1/2 cup canola oil 1 cup puréed strawberries, fresh or frozen, thawed 1/2 cup soy milk or almond milk

Icing1 box powdered sugar 4 tablespoons non-hydrogenated dairy-free margarine, softened 4-6 tablespoons puréed fresh or frozen strawberries Fresh strawberries for decoration

Method Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter (or spray) and flour 2 9-inch round cake pans or one 9x13-inch cake pan. Set aside. Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, beat remaining ingredients together. Add to dry, beating with a wire whisk. Pour into prepared cake pans. Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes or until done when tested with a toothpick.

To make the frosting, sift powdered sugar into softened margarine. Add strawberry purée to spreading consistency. Frost the cake and decorate the top of the cake with fresh strawberries just before serving. v(Recipe source: Whole Foods Market)

Food Allergies and Birthday Parties

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Danielle Villegas


department | fit family

fitfamilyQuick and Healthy Breakfast Ideas

Don’t let the kids skip breakfast! I know it’s tough in the morning. Everyone is rushing to get out the door on time, but we have all heard the saying, “breakfast is the most important meal of the day,” and it’s true! Especially for kids, who need that energy from their breakfast to get them through the day.

Here are some quick, healthy, and a few quirky breakfast ideas for the morning rush.

• Banana dog (peanut butter, a banana, and raisins in a long whole-grain bun)

• Breakfast taco (shredded cheese on a tortilla, folded in half and microwaved; top with salsa)

• Country cottage cheese (apple butter mixed with cottage cheese)

• Fruit and cream cheese sandwich (use strawberries or other fresh fruit)

• Sandwich — grilled cheese, peanut butter and jelly, or another favorite

• French toast, waffles, or pancakes (try wheat or whole-grain varieties) – get these frozen, and pop them in the toaster while everyone’s still getting ready.

• Oatmeal breakfast bars - Oatmeal is a good breakfast, but it’s hard to take with you. These are a good alternative.

• Yogurt with fruit or nuts sprinkled on top.

Source: www.kidshealth.org.

Local Races Run for Healthier Babies 5K & 1 Mile Fun RunMarch of Dimes Saturday, 09/01 @ 8amTrySports Event Field at Mayfaire

Sea Trail Plantation 10K/5K/1 Mile Fun RunSaturday, 09/08 @ 8amSea Trail Plantation Golf Resort, Sunset Beach

Race for Preservation 5KHistoric Wilmington FoundationThursday, 09/13 @ 6:30pmBest Western Plus Coastline Inn

*Visit www.wilmingtonroadrunners.org to find race information and registration.

Your store for ALL your educational needs!

Follow us on Facebook: Teacher’s Aid Inc (Wilmington, NC)

University Square 831 South Kerr Avenue Wilmington, NCMon-Fri - 10a.m. - 6p.m. & Saturday - 9a.m. - 5p.m.

910-799-0101www.teachersaidnc.com

• Educational Gifts: Melissa & Doug, games, and so much more• Decor for the classroom & bedroom• Incentive stickers, charts, pencils, erasers, etc.• Workbooks• Science fair supplies• And so much more!

10% off total purchase*can not be combined with any other sale or promotion

Bridge Builders Counseling Center You have supported us for over 6 years; so let

us support you……

(910) 792.9888 www.bridgebuilderscounseling.com 5919 Oleander Dr. Suite 104, Bldg. 2

Arboretum Centre Wilmington, NC 28403

Individual & Family Counseling Parenting Program

Anger Management Groups Stress Relief

Grief Counseling Special Needs

Maintaining Sobriety


Importance of FlexibilitySchool, sports, and fall activities are starting

back up and we all need to incorporate a little bit of flexibility in our lives. Not just in our fluid schedules that change with the wind, but in our bodies. Stretching is not just something you do to warm up for the bigger exercises, improving your flexibility should be a fitness goal for people of all ages and abilities.

By stretching your muscles, you are lengthening and loosening muscles and improving the flexibil-ity of your joints. Improved flexibility of the back and hips may lead to less stiffness, better posture, fewer back problems, and a decreased risk for injury to muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Stretching Exercises

Below are just a few basic stretches. More stretching exercises can be found at www.girlshealth.gov/fitness/exercise/stretching

1. Cross shoulder stretch - Bend right arm at elbow joint, extend arm across chest. Place left hand on the right elbow to gently support the arm during this stretch. Repeat this stretch on opposite side, using right hand to stretch left arm and shoulder.

2. Chest stretch - Place arms behind your back. Clasp your hands together, extending your arms behind your back and hold this position.

3. Quadriceps stretch – Use a wall for support. Raise your left leg behind you and grab your foot with your left hand. Pull your heel slightly up toward your bottom, stretching the muscles in the front of your left thigh for 20 seconds. Repeat the stretch with your right leg.

4. Hamstring stretch – Lie down on the floor for this exercise. Bend your right knee up to your chest and hold onto your right thigh with both hands placed behind your knee. Slowly straighten your right leg. Repeat with left leg.

Stretch to the point of mild discomfort then ease off and hold for 30 seconds. It should not be painful. Do not pull hard or bounce, which may tear muscles or tendons. Also, don’t forget to breathe! Stay relaxed and go slow. If you want to be sure you are stretching correctly, a certified exercise instructor can show you safe exercises that will best suit your specific needs.

GIVE THE GIFT OF LANGUAGE FUNChinese, French and Spanish

programs for ages

6 Months to 9 Years

Call Elizabeth DeBiasi: 910-763-3387

www.accentsonfun.com

Did you know all this was Free with Membership?

• Play Center - 8wk-6yr

• Kids Zone - 5-12yr

• Over 100 Group Exercise Classes Zumba, Kickboxing, Yoga, Pilates,

Chair Aerobics and more…..

•2 Heated Pools

AND SO MUCH MORE……..

All New At the Y & SpeciAlS

Wilmington Family YMCA www.wilmingtonfamilyymca.org 251-YMCA(9622)

Membership Special-50% off Joining Fee!expires, October 15th, 2012

New!• Cardio Equipment!

• Free Weight Equipment• Selectorize Equipment

Free week At the Y!

Free 1 week Family Membership

One per family/adult.Expires October 1st, 2012


department | school notes

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Breakfast Benefits!We’ve all heard that breakfast is the “most important meal of the day!” Here’s how having a good break-fast especially helps your children during the school year.

Higher Test Scores: Research shows higher math and reading scores from students who eat breakfast.Improved Attendance: Those who eat breakfast are absent and tardy less than those who don’t eat breakfast.Fewer Trips to the School Nurse: Fewer hunger-related office visits.Improved Classroom Behavior: Principals see fewer discipline problems when students have breakfast.Better Learning: Students can concentrate better when they have eaten a good breakfast.

Source: www.schoolnutritionandfitness.com (Brunswick County Schools)

New Hanover County:Traditional Schools: September 3 – Labor Day HolidaySeptember 24 – Designated Common Core Teacher Work Day

Year Round Schools:September 3 – Labor Day HolidaySeptember 27 – Student Half Day / Staff DevelopmentSeptember 28 – Designated Common Core Teacher Work Day

CFCI Charter School:September 3 – Labor Day HolidaySeptember 27 – Early ReleaseSeptember 28 – Teacher Work Day

Isaac Bear Early College:September 3 – Labor Day HolidaySeptember 24 – Designated Common Core Teacher Work Day

Wilmington Early College:September 3 – Labor Day HolidaySeptember 24 – Designated Common Core Teacher Work Day

Brunswick:Traditional Schools: September 3 – Labor Day HolidaySeptember 21 – Student Early Release / Staff Development

Roger Bacon Academy/Charter Day School September 3 – Labor Day Holiday

Brunswick Early College:September 3 – Labor Day HolidaySeptember 21 – Student Early Release / Staff Development

Pender:Traditional Schools: September 3 – Labor Day HolidaySeptember 12 – Early Release / Staff DevelopmentSeptember 28 – Student Vacation / Staff Work Day

Penderlea Year Round School:September 3 – Labor Day HolidaySeptember 12 – Student Early Release / Staff DevelopmentSeptember 28 – Student Vacation / Staff Work Day

Pender Early College:September 3 – Labor Day HolidaySeptember 12 – Student Early Release / Staff DevelopmentSeptember 28 – Student Vacation / Staff Work Day

Visit www.nhcs.net, www.co.brunswick.k12.nc.us or www.pendercountyschools.net for more information.

School’s Out!

NHC SCHooL MEAL PRICES

Grades Breakfast LunchPre-K $1.25 $1.80K-5 $1.25 $2.106-8 $1.25 $2.109-12 $1.25 $2.25*Reduced Pay (all grades) Free/$ .40Milk Only = $ .50

*Visit www.nhcs.net/nutrition/menus.htm for free/reduced meal application.

BRuNSWICK SCHooL MEAL PRICES

Grades Breakfast LunchElementary $1.15 $1.80Middle $1.15 $1.95High $1.15 $2.10*Reduced Pay (all grades) Free/$ .40Milk Only = $ .50

*Visit www.schoolnutrition-andfitness.com for free/reduced meal information.

PENdER SCHooL MEAL PRICES

Grades Breakfast LunchPre-K- 5th $1.35 $2.056th – 8th $1.35 $2.209th – 12th $1.35 $2.40*Reduced Pay (all grades) Free/$.30/$.40

*Visit www.pendercoun-tyschools.net for information regarding reduced meal plans.

School Meals: Good Nutrition/Good Value


A Parent’s Help for Academic SuccessLooking forward to an awesome school year? Here are a few tips toward helping your children prepare academically for school…on a daily basis!

Be Generous with PraiseComment on things done well and be positive when speaking of areas that may need improvement.

Encourage a Child’s “Personal Best”Personal Best does not mean perfect. Allow children freedom to make mistakes and to learn from mistakes while encouraging them to do their best in school and at home.

Make Learning a PriorityA parent’s example and attitude toward school attendance, education and involvement make a lasting impression on children.

Show Interest in School WorkTalk about the school day, review classwork, read aloud together, have discussions about ideas, and show appreciation for good efforts.

offer Suggestions for SuccessParents can help improve a child’s performance by reading given assignments, proofreading completed assignments, and reviewing notes with the child for tests.

Schedule Study TimePost a family calendar with project deadlines, extra-curricular activities, and test dates. Set up a “homework area” away from distractions.

Source: Visit www.pendercountyschools.net for more helpful information.

NHC Student Dress CodeIn order to help keep every student’s education-al process from being disrupted, NHC Schools have implemented the following dress code.

• Shoulder width of shirts/blouses must completely cover undergarments. (No spaghetti straps, tube tops or tank tops).• No net shirts, bare midriffs or other revealing attire allowed.• No short dresses, short skirts or short shorts allowed.• No underwear shall be revealed.• No headgear, hats or sunglasses worn in school building (except for medical/safety reasons).• No clothing, jewelry or buttons with letters, initials, symbols, or wording that is obscene, offensive, inflammatory or detrimental to instructional process allowed.• No gang-related clothing, accessories or symbols allowed (as identified by local law enforcement).• Grades 9-12 students are required to display ID while on school grounds.• No clothing, jewelry, book bags or other items allowed that are associated with intimi-dation, violence, or violent groups.

Help your children get off to a great start in fol-lowing these simple rules of appropriate attire!

Parenting Causing You Stress?THE PARENTING PROFESSIONALS CAN HELP!

We Offer the Following Services for Parents:• Personal parenting guidance and skills training in your home or our offices• Learn proven strategies for key parenting challenges like discipline, sibling rivalry, tantrums, adolescent attitude and ADHD• Child-focused parent counseling• Individual, couples and family psychotherapy

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DATES OF PARENTING WORKSHOPS AND SEMINARS

Schedule a personal consultation to learn how to quickly create peace in your family

910-777-4728 or www.successfulparentinginstitute.comNancy B. Kotz MSW, LCSW | Arthur J. Frankel LCSW, PhD | David L. Hill MD, FAAP

Parenting Causing You Stress?THE PARENTING PROFESSIONALS CAN HELP!

We Offer the Following Services for Parents:• Personal parenting guidance and skills training in your home or our offices• Learn proven strategies for key parenting challenges like discipline, sibling rivalry, tantrums, adolescent attitude and ADHD• Child-focused parent counseling• Individual, couples and family psychotherapy

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DATES OF PARENTING WORKSHOPS AND SEMINARS

Schedule a personal consultation to learn how to quickly create peace in your family

910-777-4728 or www.successfulparentinginstitute.comNancy B. Kotz MSW, LCSW | Arthur J. Frankel LCSW, PhD | David L. Hill MD, FAAP

You CAN CreATe A PeACeful hoMe for The NeW YeAr!

We offer the following Services for Parents:• Personal parenting guidance andskills training

• learn proven strategies for keyparenting challenges like discipline,sibling rivalry, tantrums, adolescentattitude and ADhD

• Child-focused parent counseling• Individual, couples and familypsychotherapy

Small group workshops available, register now.

infants • children • teens

www.catchasmile.netsurf our website

457-01114330 Southport

Supply RoadSouthport, NC 28461

NOW INSOUTHPORT

791-73802606 Iron Gate Dr.

Suite 200,Wilmington, NC

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

SKIP TYSON, D.D.S. STEPHANIE HEANEY, D.D.S.


department | going greengo

ing

gree

n

By Brandy Metzger

Doing Away With Disposables

Disposable household items are conve-nient, but contribute to a huge portion of landfill waste. So why not consider

“disposing your disposables” and replacing them with more permanent options? Here are some ideas on how to substitute the most com-mon disposable household items with more Earth-friendly alternatives.

• Paper towels and napkins: These items are typically used in the kitchen during mealtime and can be replaced with cloth napkins. Storing cloth napkins on the dining table in a basket or open container makes them easily accessible and your family will learn to rely on them in-stead of paper napkins.

Paper towels are also used for cleaning and wiping up spills. A great alternative is to cut old t-shirts into scraps that can be stored in the kitchen cabinet and used for quick clean-ups.

• Disposable razors: According to the Envi-ronmental Protection Agency, two billion dis-posable razors are thrown away each year in the United States. An electric razor many be more expensive initially, but will last longer and will keep plastic and metal out of the landfill.

• Paper plates, plastic utensils and dispos-able cups: The ultimate in convenience, these items are often used during large family gather-

ings, outdoor events or when Mom wants a night off from doing the dishes. Most disposable table-ware cannot be recycled and ends up creating large amounts of waste. Even though it will have to be washed, try to stick with reusable plates, cups and utensils. For outdoor dining, consider sets of hard plastic plates and cups.

• Ink cartridges: Most families go through multiple ink cartridges in a year. Many of these cartridges can be refilled instead of tossed out with the trash. Check with a reputable company to determine whether your ink cartridges can be refilled.

• Coffee filters and cups: Paper filters are often used in coffee makers, but permanent filters are available. Most of these filters are made from food grade stainless steel and are easily cleaned and ready for reuse. If you choose to purchase coffee from a local café, bring your own travel mug instead of accept-ing their disposable coffee cups. Many coffee shops offer a discount on coffee if you bring your own mug as well.

• Food storage: Plastic zipper bags and plastic wrap are frequently used to wrap and store left-over food. These items can be eliminated by us-ing long-lasting glass or plastic food containers.

Utilizing items that are reusable cuts down on the waste that goes into the landfill and may save your family money as well. v

Brandy Metzger is a freelance writer with a passion for green living. She is also a mother and a principal educator with STIZZil (an on-line education company).

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, two billion disposable razors are thrown away

each year in the United States.


I think many of us can relate to Deanna, mom of three girls (one a teen), when she said, “Dating? Not my babies!!!” My

own first date happened when I was 16 ½, and my parents were hard-core: if I missed curfew by 1 minute I was grounded for two weeks (I was grounded quite often). For me, 13 or 14 would have been too young for dat-ing because boys still freaked me out then, and I had no siblings to learn from.

Many parents take the issue of teen dating on a case-by-case basis because every kid is different. Some are more mature at age 15, while some may not be ready for a first date until age 19. “We don’t have a set age yet for dating, and our oldest is 14. I think a numer-ical age is way too hard to pinpoint because of different maturity levels. I do see being a responsible driver as somewhat related to being able to handle dating,” said Wendy Budetti, mom of five.

Some parents see dating as a means to finding a spouse, so why start so early? Instead, group dating might be encouraged. Mall dates are a great place to start when kids are in junior high. Kids can meet up to walk around, shop, hit the food court and maybe see a movie. Some parents will stay and sit at the back of the theatre with an eagle eye while some do the drop-off thing.

House dates are a next step for teens (or parents!) who may not be quite ready for one-on-one dating yet. Tonya of Clarksville, Indiana said, “My daughter is 17 and for the last year or so I have allowed her to have a boy come over and watch a movie or play a board game as long as I am home, and her room is off limits!”

Sean Covey’s book, The Six Most Important Decisions You Will Ever Make: A Guide for Teens, talks about teens being ready to date and knowing the difference between “intelligent” and “brainless” dating. Intelligent dating is not making decisions based on hormones, popularity, money and what the crowd is doing. Brainless dating is the opposite.

When you feel your teen is ready for one-on-one dating, keep these pointers in mind:

1. Try to model healthy romantic relationships at home. Talk to your child about dating and how it’s not always like the media portrays it, how some of the very best dates are free and to be realistic about how a date might play out.

2. Talk to your teen about what a good relationship is, like how the other person should never push, hit or degrade your teen, shouldn’t pressure your teen into doing things he knows he shouldn’t be doing. In essence, make sure they know how they want to be treated.

3. Have a plan. Teens should decide in advance things like qualities they are looking for, how they don’t want a date to go, what they will do if they find themselves in a bad situation, etc.

4. Teen dating is about meeting many different kinds of people to find out what they eventually might like in a life partner, so don’t flip out if your teen brings a guy home who you don’t love. Chances are this will not be your future son-in-law.

5. Talk to your teen about being himself and not turning into a chameleon to please a potential date.

6. Let your teen know he or she can always come to you with questions. Don’t be afraid to tell about your own best and worst dates and mistakes you’ve made while dating. Everybody has bad judgment sometimes, so let your teen know you understand that and you are willing to come pick him up at any time of the night if a bad situation arises.

Kim of Indianapolis put it well when she said, “I think the best thing you can do is set the rules and guidelines for your daughter or son and do not let society set them. It’s called: you have to parent them, not be their friend, and not be their matchmaker.” v

Kerrie McLoughlin (TheKerrieShow.com) is “that” mom of five who will greet potential dates with a running chainsaw. http://TheKerrieShow.com


department | book beat

By Claire Walling

book

beat

My favorite recipesBy Annabel Karmel. DK Publishing, $14.99

Annabel Karmel is a renowned author of children’s cookbooks and her latest collection does not disappoint. The recipes are

simple but delicious, the picture illustrations are easy-to-follow, and helpful tips are sprinkled throughout. Plus, this spiral-

bound book has a built-in “stand,” making it convenient to use in the kitchen.

MealtimeBy Elizabeth Verdick. Free Spirit Publishing, $7.95

Does your two-year-old prefer playing with her broccoli to eating it? This colorful board book will get kids excited about cooking and eating healthfully, even if they are too young to prepare food for themselves.

Kids cook Want to involve your kids in their food choices? Here’s a few books to help!

Clueless in the Kitchen: A Cookbook for TeensBy Evelyn RaabFirefly Books, $14.95

If your teenager calls you at work and asks how to make Mac & Cheese from a box, this book may be the perfect solution to their plight. Evelyn Raab gives step-by-step guides to navigating the foreign territories of the grocery store and kitchen, as well as sim-ple, cheap, and nutritious recipes.

NeW HaNoVer CouNTy LibrarieShttp://www.nhcgov.com/AgnAndDpt/LIBR/Pages/DeptInfo.aspx Main Library – 201 Chestnut Street – 798-6301Myrtle Grove Branch – 5155 South College Road – 798-6391Northeast Branch – 1241 Military Cutoff Road – 798-6371Carolina Beach Branch – 300 Cape Fear Blvd. – 798-6385 Lapsit Storytime (babies under 18 months) @ 9:30amMain Branch: Tuesday 9/4, 9/11, 9/18, 9/25Myrtle Grove Branch: Wednesday 9/5, 9/12, 9/19, 9/26Northeast Branch: Thursday 9/6, 9/13, 9/20, 9/27

Toddler Storytime (18 – 36 months) @ 10amMain Branch: Tuesday 9/4, 9/11, 9/18, 9/25Myrtle Grove Branch: Wednesday 9/5, 9/12, 9/19.9/26Northeast Branch: Thursday 9/6, 9/13, 9/20, 9/27

Preschool Storytime (3 – 5 years) @ 10:30amMain Branch: Tuesday 9/4, 9/11, 9/18, 9/25Myrtle Grove Branch: Wednesday 9/5, 9/12, 9/19.9/26Northeast Branch: Thursday 9/6, 9/13, 9/20, 9/27

bi-Lingual Storytime (Preschool ages) @10:30amMain Branch: Thursday 9/6, 9/13, 9/20, 9/27Carolina beach family Storytime (all ages) @10:30amWednesday 8/1Thursday 8/2Friday 8/3

Special events main Library Family Yoga Storytime: Friday 9/7, 9/14, 9/21, 9/28 from 10:30 – 11amFamily Reading Night (Preschool): Monday 9/10 from 5:30 – 6:30pm

Northeast Library Family Reading Night (Preschool): Monday 9/17 from 5:30 – 6:30pm

Carolina beach Library Family Reading Night (Preschool): Tuesday 9/18 from 4:30 – 5:30pmPirate Storytime: Monday 9/24 from 10:30 – 11:30am“All Ages” Storytime: Monday 9/10, 9/17, 9/24 from 10:30 – 11am

myrtle grove Library Rap Club (Elementary/Pre-teens): Wednesday 9/12, 9/19, 9/26 from 3:30 – 4:30pmFamily Reading Night (Preschool): Monday 9/24 from 5:30 – 6:30pm

PeNDer CouNTy PubLiC LibrarieSwww.youseemore.com/PENDERPL/ Burgaw Central Library – 103 S. Cowan Street – 259-1234Hampstead Branch Library – 75 Library Drive – 270-4603

HampsteadAsk a Master Gardener: 9/17 from 10:30am – 1pm

bruNSWiCK CouNTy PubLiC LibrarieShttp://library.brunsco.net/”http://library.brunsco.net/ Barbee Library – 8200 East Oak Island Drive – 278-4283Harper Library – 109 West Moore Street – 457-6237Hickmans Crossroads – 1040 Calabash Road – 575-0173Leland Library – 487 Village Road – 371-9442Rourk Library – 5068 Main St. – 754-6578

Contact branch for September schedule.

briLLiaNT SKy ToyS & booKSwww.brilliantskytoys.com Mayfaire Town Center – 509-3353

StorytimeMondays at 10:30am

barNeS & NobLehttp://store-locator.barnesandnoble.com/store/2156 Mayfaire Town Center – 509-1880 Toddler StorytimeTuesdays at 10am Fridays at 7pm

Story Time

SpongeBob’s Kitchen Mission Cookbook

By Nickelodeon. Wiley, $16.99

There’s a cooking contest in Bikini Bottom between SpongeBob and his friends, and the prize is getting kids to make healthful and creati-

ve dishes. Themes from the popular kids TV show pop up throu-ghout this book in recipes like Sea Star Casserole, Chocolate

Dippity Doo Dah, and Salty Sea Cucumbers and recipes are rated 1, 2, or 3 based on the skill level and amount of adult supervision required to make them.

All NHC, Pender County, and Brunswick County Libraries CLOSED 09/03 for Labor Day Holiday!FALL BOOK SALE (NHC Northeast Library): September 28 – October 3


department | meet the expert

Downtown Darlings

advertor ial

Downtown Darlings is a specialty gift boutique, catering to that extraordinary girl from infan-cy to around 11 years. However, if you love pink, the shine of crystals, and the luxuriousness of fine fabrics, then this is a space that any girl will love from 2 to 99. The store is filled

with products from 18” dolls and doll clothing, a wide variety of hair accessories, bath and beauty products, cool room decor, lighting, hats, lounge wear, bags and purses, frames and piggy banks, fun iPod and cell phone accessories, as well as baby gift items: the list goes on and on. We even carry a line of baby BOY gifts and a few boy toddler things as well.

I, Marcia Frelke, am so excited to have been in existence for over a year now; and hope to have many more to come. I could not have survived the last 15 months without all my dedicated custom-ers, who support Downtown Darlings emphatically. They can attest that I would have never been able to create such a unique space without the gracious offerings of a historic building and all the character/aura that goes along with it. Downtown Wilmington has such great potential! It is really evolving into something “Wonderful”. People in our community spend countless hours trying to make a change for the better, attracting viable businesses, retail and other, as well as focused efforts on safety and parking. There are three parking decks conveniently located in downtown (one directly across from my shop!) that offer 60 minutes of free parking. Downtown Wilmington, but especially Downtown Darlings, is worth the trip no matter what part of the city or area you cur-rently reside.

Downtown Darlings also offers two fun, magical areas where you can enjoy various “themed” parties. Whether it be a Princess Party, a Doll Party, a “Pamper Me” Party, or a PJ Party, your daugh-ter can have a memorable birthday party at a reasonable price. Our parties standard packages are largely all inclusive with many “add-on” features . We want this special day to be one to remember for the birthday girl and her parents. It is our goal to provide a memorable day for the birthday girl and a stress free one for the mom and dad. All of our parties include fun activities as well as good-ies that each child will get to take home with them. ALSO, whether or not your party is with us, we offer the ability to fill a birthday bag with us....so all your wishes can be fulfilled by family and friends with complimentary gift wrapping!

I have tried to create a unique shop for girls that offers many items that you can’t find in any other place nearby, or even in town for that matter. It is my hope that when you enter the store that you will be wowed by the space, enchanted with the product, and excited to have a party (or two or three) of your very own with us some day. I promise it’s worth the trip! Please come see us soon! For more information, go to www.downtowndarlings.net or call 910-251-2233.

downtown darlings112 Market Street unit A

Wilmington, NC 28401910-251-2233

www.downtowndarlings.net


department | peanut gallery


Julia 8/26 • 4yo Lyla 8/29 • 6yo Cora Rose C. 8/17 • 6yo Greyson 9/22 • 2yo Joseph 9/15• 3yo

Cameron J. 9/11 • 6yo Chloe J. 9/15• 1yo Cash N. 9/27 • 5yo Katirah D. 9/26• 10yo Autumn W. 9/1 • 3yo

Braxton J. 9/5 • 9yo Ashlyn J. 9/21 • 8yo Kaylyn J. 9/21 • 8yo Sammy V. 8/118 • 7yo Camden K. 9/4 • 3yo

Reagan T. 9/24 Adam 9/15 • 11yo Pellah M. 9/16 • 5yo Tehryn M. 9/1 • 3yo Adilene 9/15 • 2yo

Hailey L . 9/15 • 1yo Haley M. 9/25 • 4yo Emma 9/16 • 1yo Aubrey R. 9/20 TJ 9/1 • 3yo

DOES YOUR CHILD OR GRANDCHILD HAVE A BIRTHDAY IN OCTOBER? Honor them by having their photo published in Wilmington Parent. Here's how: e-mail image (size not to exceed 1mb) to [email protected]. Deadline for publication: 9/13. We have a limited number of spots, so if you sent your child’s picture and do not see it this issue, please check back next month!

3610 S. College Rd.Located Near the 17th St. Intersection

(910) 399-4252

www.RibbetSalon.comRibbet

Choose Your Style - Both Girls & Boys

Wii PartyAll Out Salon PartyPlay and Paint Party

Every party at Ribbet includes 2-hour room rental with clean-up; a dedicateddedicated party host; complementary use of our DVD player with surround sound for movies; and IPod dock with in-wall speakers for your party. Playlists are available if needed. All packages below include up to 10 children but additional guests may be added.

Are you ready for Back to School?

September isTeacher Appreciation

month atClothes Mentor !!

4720-C New Centre Dr. Wilmington, NC Across from Target • (910) 794-6888 • www.clothesmentor.com

Teachers shop Clothes Mentor Wilmington, show your School ID and receive 10% off your entire purchase! Our friendly staff would love to help you pick out some

trendy items that look great on you!Designed for ALL women...sizes 0-26 & Maternity

Target Shopping Center 4719-J New Centre Drive Wilmington, NC(910) 452-9976 • www.onceuponachildwilmington.com • Store Hours: Mon-Sat 9-8; Sun. 12-6

Is your family ready for Back to School?Once Upon A Child makes Back to School fun and affordable!

Awesome Styles. Awesome Savings.

Documents

Wilmington Parent September 2012