Your children have graduated from toddlerhood and are now of the age to take either dance or gymnastics lessons.  Of course, they seem very excited to wear pretty pink tutus and form-fitting leotards, but how do you know for sure that these activities will benefit your kids?   Enrolling in one of these schools is a huge commitment of your time as weekly classes are usually required from September through June.  And, it has to be financially feasible for your family since all schools require registration fees, monthly payments, and additional costs for shows or recitals.  However, if your child has a sincere interest in one of these activities and you can manage the money and get your child there every week, area parents and school directors say signing up for dance or gymnastics lessons is worth every penny and the time spent in the car shuttling the kids to and from lessons.

Chrissy Starr, owner of Shore Ballet in Toms River, says studying ballet can provide your children with an invaluable experience.

“All kids gain from the arts,” says Starr.  “It teaches them discipline and exposes them to music.  Everyone is fitness consciousness these days.  The kids are engaging in an activity and not just watching television.”

Brick mother Penny Chandler has all of her daughters involved in either dance or gymnastics lessons.  She strongly believes that these activities teach the girls worthwhile lessons about the importance of exercise and proper nutrition, too.

“All four of my girls are in dance classes,” says Chandler.   “One daughter is on a dance competition team, one takes ballet, and the twins take ballet, tap, jazz and hip hop.   My twins are on the north elite pre-team for USAG at Twisters in Lakewood and my three-year-old takes recreational classes once a week there, too.  These activities really give the girls a great sense of self awareness and a sense of self discipline.  Plus, they talk about healthy eating during their gymnastics work outs.  I’ll never forget the day when my one daughter said, ‘Mommy no more chicken nuggets!  Only baked chicken and vegetables!’  I was very surprised to hear her say this but very happy and pleased that this kind of information was being conveyed to my girls.  The mental concentration is also another way they benefit.  One daughter said to me, “Mom I have to really be careful not to fall off the balance beam.”

Howell mother of two, Colleen Murath decided to enroll her daughter in gymnastics lessons when she was three-years-old.   For the past two years, her daughter has thoroughly enjoyed all of her classes.

“I wanted my daughter to do an activity and get some exercise while also learning some new skills and building her confidence, too,” says Murath.  “Taking gymnastics is a great opportunity for her to meet other girls, so I really appreciate the social aspect of taking gymnastics classes, as well.”

Murath particularly enjoyed the end-of-the-year exhibition which showcased the skills the girls learned during the program.

“I couldn’t get over how much they learned throughout the year,” says Murath.  “All of a sudden, she was flipping over a parallel bar and I didn’t even know she could do that.”

If you feel that your child is ready for this type of challenge, it’s important to research and choose a facility to meet the needs of your individual child.   Therefore, it’s important to choose a school that will successfully educate your child in a specific discipline, but also keep them happy and safe.  When beginning a search, there are a few important factors to consider.

First, spend a lot of time asking questions about the backgrounds of the teaching staff.   Don’t hesitate to meet with the director and ask to see the credentials and the certifications of the teaching staff.  It’s also wise to see if it is clean and safe and make sure the curriculum being offered is something that matches the interests and the abilities your child.

Another factor to consider is class size.   Make sure the classes are not too large so your child doesn’t feel lost in the shuffle.  Be sure to ask about the teacher-student ratio, as well.  Also, chances are your child may get sick at least once during the class, so it’s important to find out if make up classes are offered.

Okay, so you signed your child up for the program, you paid your money and your child already took a few classes.  At first, she couldn’t wait to tell you all of the details about the steps she just learned and the new friends in her class.  But, then she breaks the news to you that she doesn’t want to go anymore.  What now?

Make sure to give your child at least a few months to get acclimated to this new activity.  Talk to her about whatever fears she may have and discuss her concerns with the teaching staff, also.  However, if after a few months, she still does not have any interest in attending the lessons, it may be a good idea to find another activity.

So, if your child seems interested in flipping over bars and doing forward rolls, then maybe gymnastics school is the way to channel her after-school energy.   Or perhaps your child wants to become a real ballerina.  If you’re hesitant about whether or not to sign on the dotted line, don’t be because many children enjoy numerous positive benefits from one of these activities.

Before selecting a program, research the facility online, ask for referrals from other parents and drop in to visit a ballet school or gym without an appointment to see how their classes are run.  They should have a friendly, open-door policy and be able to answer all of your questions in person.  Ask about the instructors, the class sizes, and the cleanliness of the school.  Also ask your child to come with you.  If he or she is welcomed by the staff and feels immediately comfortable, then you just may have found the right place.

Thinking of a fun affordable activity for your child this fall? Then you should consider the Shore Ballet School. Approaching their 34th season, the most recommended dance school in the Toms River area is dedicated to the highest quality of instruction. With a great curriculum arranged specifically for boys and girls of every age group, their programs are rated #1 by parents and students alike.

This season Shore Ballet will be offering a variety of styles such as Tap, Lyrical, Broadway, Hip Hop and Tumbling. In all classes teachers focus on technique, choreography and having fun. Parents love their stellar curriculum, convenient class schedules and reasonable prices. Shore Ballet is known as a non-competitive school. That means, students won’t be asked to sign up for extra practice workshops or dance competitions. At Shore Ballet all the magic happens each week right at the studio!

Chrissy Starr is the owner/director of the school and she is dedicated to making sure the school is a positive place. She is a certified dance instructor and her teacher training began in London, England where she graduated from the prestigious Royal Ballet School.  It was there that she completed a professional dance teacher’s training program that concentrated on the fundamental teaching of classical dance. Upon retuning to the U.S. she continued her studies obtaining more teaching certifications while still performing in ballets and theater productions. Now as a respected member of the Royal Academy of Dance for more than 18 years, Ms. Starr holds the R.A.D. teaching certificate with Distinction. She is also a long time member of the American Academy of Ballet and holds certifications from the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing.

Shore Ballet is just minutes off Rt. 37 E. in Toms River near Vaughn and West End Avenues. The building was once St. Philip’s Episcopal Church built in 1880, and is listed on the State and National Register of Historic places. Still containing the seven original stained glass windows, the dance room itself is a spacious 56×30 feet with chestnut paneling and a small stage that once served as an alter. The dance room also has a vaulted ceiling, Harlequin dance floor, heat/air conditioning and a viewing window for parents to watch the dancers. The waiting area is comfortable with two bathrooms and baby changing facilities.

Register today it’s fun & affordable! Shore Ballet offers sibling discounts and payment plans. Compare our prices. Major credit cards accepted. Sign up before classes are full!

Call: 732-270-1110 or E-mail: director@shoreballet.com. Visit our new website: www.shoreballet.com

Dance For Joy, located in Brielle NJ on Route 70, has been a part of the community for twenty one years!  In the Fall of February 2007, Kimberly Kunkel became the new owner and Artistic Director.  Kimberly Kunkel has been dancing since she was three years old. She studied Classical Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, Choreography and Yoga. She attended Howell High School’s Fine and Performing Arts Center where she was recognized for her fine tuned dancing and creative choreography. She then went on to pursue her dance training at Montclair State University where she studied Ballet and Modern, and performed professionally with the Sebastian Sextet Dance Company.  Ms. Kunkel finished her studies at Point Park University in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, one of the most prestigious institutions for dance in the country.  She graduated with a degree in Dance Pedagogy which included studies in child, adolescent, adult and educational psychology, anatomy, kinesiology, and choreography, along with daily technique classes in Ballet, Modern and Jazz.

Kimberly has an incredible passion for dance, choreography, teaching and most importantly children; “I’ve had so many amazing and inspiring dance teachers in my life thathave left me with a deep understanding of my own body.  This connection is what dance is all about.  The mind and body connection is what makes dance so addicting.  To be able to define and interpret a thought, feeling, song, or even silence with movement, is the most honest form of expression I have ever experienced.  The body becomes our finely tuned instrument, and what other instrument could possibly be so beautiful?  This is what I hope to teach and instill in each student that walks through my studio doors.” ~Kimberly Kunkel

At Dance For Joy we strongly believe that ballet is the seed in which all dance stems from. There is nothing in the world that can teach grace, coordination, poise and balance better, and combine it in a more effective package than ballet.  Students that learn and apply the lessons of ballet, almost subconsciously integrate what they have mastered into their life.  At the very least, one can inexplicably see and sense the increase in confidence and self-esteem that will last them a lifetime.  In a society where kids are growing up with constant instant gratification from all the wonderful technologies our world presents us with, ballet is a way to teach focus and patience with self.  It allows the student to understand their bodies and the technique of dance while instilling perseverance, determination, and discipline.

Dance For Joy offers a variety of dance techniques including Classical Ballet, Pointe, Modern, Jazz, Lyrical, Tap, Hip-Hop, and Yoga.  It is a second home for some of the students attending, and it’s DFJ’s goal to create a safe and friendly atmosphere while inspiring and challenging the students in the art of dance. The studio isn’t just a place where students learn a dance; it is where they learn how to dance. This is what sets Dance for Joy a part from other dance studios.  The End of the Year Show is an option for all students enrolled at DFJ. Show rehearsal is separate from the student’s weekly technique classes, allowing students to take full advantage of their dance training.

All of the faculty at Dance For Joy are highly trained and certified dance teachers who have dedicated most of their lives to the discipline of dance.  Each teacher takes a special pride in passing on their knowledge, experiences and passion for dance to each student at DFJ.

Dance for Joy is located at 1025 Rt. 70 Suite 2,Brielle.For more

information call :732-223-5336 or log onto www.danceforjoynj.com

danceforjoy2@optonline.net

High gas prices and a weak economy have forced many American families to reevaluate their vacation plans this summer.   Instead of traveling many miles to amusement parks and other popular tourist attractions, more people are opting for a “staycation” instead.  This new type of “vacation” has become quite the buzzword during these troubled economic times.  Some decide to turn their backyards into a vacation paradise and really get into vacation mode by cutting off contact with the outside world.   Others stay local and visit the sights in nearby towns.  However you decide to enjoy your “staycation” this summer, the important thing is to enjoy some much needed rest and relaxation without spending a lot of money.

If finances are really tight and day trips are not possible, simply enjoy all of the comforts of home without the distractions and responsibilities of everyday work life.  In order for this type of “staycation” to be successful, it requires a lot of effort and willpower to really unplug yourself from outside connections.  The computer and the phone both need to be turned off.  Your office also needs to know that you really are on vacation and that you cannot be disturbed!   Now start changing into relaxation mode and let the “staycation” begin!   Make yourself a fancy breakfast of homemade waffles and fruit.  Have that second cup of coffee you always want but never have time to enjoy.  Read entire newspaper articles instead of just scanning the headlines.  Take time to do the small, daily things you normally don’t have time for as you are rushing out the door.  Who knows?  Maybe you’ll even decide to go back to bed after breakfast.  It is your “staycation,” so take time to lounge and relax as you would on a normal vacation.

After breakfast, decide if you will enjoy your backyard and sit by the pool with a drink and a good book.  If you don’t have a swimming hole, maybe it’s time to invest in that hammock you’ve always wanted.    Instead of going away, some people are turning their backyards into an oasis.  Cindy Harrison of Point Pleasant spent a few extra dollars this summer to maximize her outdoor living space.

“My husband and I have fixed up the backyard so we have a sitting area with an outdoor rug” says Harrison, who is the mother of two-year-old twins.   “The kids have a small pool that they love, too.”

While you are outside, maybe you’ll order in some lunch for a special treat.  Or perhaps you won’t even make it onto your patio or deck.  Maybe you’ll decide to have a “pajama day” and watch movies, pop popcorn, and have some pizza delivered.   Since you’re on vacation, really let loose and abandon all chores for the week—no vacuuming, no making the bed, cleaning out the closets, or pulling weeds.  You wouldn’t do those things on a regular vacation would you?  Whether you are outside or inside, the important thing is to detach yourself from your daily work life and relax.

In fact, for many parents, having a “staycation” is more relaxing, especially if they have younger children.  When you are at home, you don’t have to pack up the pampers, bottles of formula, and special toys.  Everything is right at your disposal.  But, in order to fight off the crankiness, it’s best to keep the kids busy with planned activities.  Create different games and activities, such as a horseshoes or hopscotch.  Let the kids make sno-cones as a special treat.  Maybe you could even rent a movie and a projector from your local library and show the film on the side of your house or on a large sheet.  Invite the neighbors over with their kids and hand out candy and popcorn for the kids to enjoy while watching.

Talk to your kids and ask them what they would like to do on the “staycation.”  Let them plan a list of daily activities they would enjoy doing.   Kids love when they are provided a say in how the family spends free time.  Maybe they want to stay up late and catch fireflies in the dark.  Then set up a tent and spend the night camping in your own yard!  That certainly doesn’t cost a lot of money and definitely helps in preserving the “staycation” budget.

If you do have some money in the bank and would like to venture out, try researching some local points of interest.  How about a museum or a new restaurant?  What about visiting a new park, bringing a picnic lunch and enjoying a good book?  For the ultimate in relaxation, how about visiting a day spa for one or two of their services?

Harrison is certainly feeling the economic crush this summer and had to alter her plans accordingly.  However, with a little ingenuity, she is still planning on enjoying a great summer with her family.

“We had originally planned to fly down to North Carolina and stay with friends but the airline prices are as high as ever because of the fuel costs. So we had to nix that idea and be more creative,” says Harrison.  “We are actually going to a Yankees game with friends and leaving our twins at home. Luckily, my parents have a house down in Cape May so we will go and spend a few nights there with the twins.  They have a pool and we plan on taking them to the Cape May Zoo.  We also visit Bay Head beach a few times a week.   My husband and I will be going to a concert in August, too.   So even though we aren’t packing up and heading to an exotic location we have managed to fill our summer calendar with some fun family and couple activities.”

All of these ideas are just the tip of the iceberg.  Ideas for how to enjoy a restful and relaxing “staycation” are virtually unlimited!  With a little planning and creativity, it can be accomplished.  The important thing to remember is to treat it like a regular vacation, as if you were traveling somewhere.  Remember to take pictures, too.  You wouldn’t forget taking your camera on a vacation, would you?  Your “staycation” should be no different.  You are enjoying yourself and making memories with the ones you love.

An issue that has exploded over the past few months is Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).  MMA is a full contact sport using different fighting techniques from boxing to martial arts and everything in between.  It is performed in a cage-like octagon ring with two opponents and a referee.  It has been described as a no holds barred fighting frenzy.  Since this barbaric entertainment emerged and gained rapid popularity, additional safety rules have been incorporated.  However, MMA takes fighting to a whole new level.  Like boxing, the objective is to knock out your opponent.    Fighters throw each other to the ground and grab hold to make their opponent immobile.  Submission holds gain an advantage since one of the fighters is physically impaired to move.  The other fighter pummels away at the head or body to achieve a severely beaten state even unconsciousness.

This is the new frenzy surrounding Martial Arts.  This type of fighting is affecting children, teenagers and young adults to learn this type of martial arts.  It is being taught on computers; teaching viewers to physically abuse and quite possibly harm themselves and others by mimicking what they see on websites and television.  Welcome to the new wild phenomena of Mixed Martial Arts.

MMA combines grappling, jiu-jitsu and traditional martial arts to overtake an opponent.   Grappling is a lot like wrestling with certain holds, sweeps and throws.  The WWF entertainment factor becomes reality in an MMA cage.  Striking your opponent with your fist or elbow is perfectly legal while you have them pinned to the ground in a choke hold.  Lifting and throwing down your competitor to perform a clinch hold and punching their face or body is also allowed.   Jiu-jitsu is a type of martial arts that teaches choking, submission holds and potentially breaking of bones.  A slightly dazed opponent after a choking move is less likely to offer any resistance.  Immobilizing a fighter to win could lead to unconsciousness, which may or may not be allowed, but is performed.

A 35-year-old MMA fighter, Sam Vasquez, died in Houston, TX on November 30, 2007.  He was hospitalized when he collapsed after being knocked out in the 3rd round of an MMA fight a month earlier.  Doctors performed two surgeries to remove blood clots from his brain.  After the second surgery, he had a stroke and died.    This is the kind of entertainment people of all ages are watching and imitating.

Another instructor in Virginia who teaches Mixed Martial Arts to children kicked an 11-year-old student over 200 times in the abdomen.  This was a challenge to see how many kicks the child could take before falling over.  The child’s parents were not present at the time and did not witness this act.  Parents need to be present at all times when their children are learning karate, jiu-jitsu, tae kwon do or any form of martial arts.  Question instructors and owners on abusive moves and potential dangers you see.

Martial Arts is a precise form of self-defense.  Instructors teach where to hit and how to hit properly without injuring yourself.  Breaking a wooden board the wrong way could fracture or break a hand.  Learning the skill of how to correctly hold your hand while breaking a board allows students the ability to break thicker pieces of wood, as they get older and stronger.  Mastering Martial Arts takes years of practice and teachings.  Utilizing the safety of the techniques ensures no one gets hurt while building character, strength and gaining knowledge.

Parents need to be vigilant that the martial arts being taught to their children, or themselves, is safe.    Schools in the area are beginning to teach a Mixed Martial Arts class andparents may not even be aware there children are learning something dangerous.  Kum Sung stresses safety and proper technique when teaching their students.  No student moves to the next level unless they are proficient in their abilities.  Learning the correct way of hitting, kicking, or breaking a wooden board is what Dr. Sung and his instructors at Kum Sung have mastered over the years.  When locating a Martial Arts school, investigate what they are teaching, how students learn and the credentials of the staff interacting with you or your children.  Dr. Sung describes his Martial Arts teachings as not just a hobby, but a way of life.  This is my heritage and culture this is the same sentiment shared by martial arts masters like Chuck Norris, Jackie Chan and Jet Li.  Ensure you can view all classes and know what your children are doing in the class.  Martial Arts is a safe, physically fit activity that promotes self-esteem and success throughout all aspects of life.  Visit kumsungkarate.com or call and speak to Dr. Sung or one of the instructors.  Be aware of what they will and are actually learning.

Breakwater Beach

Casino Pier, Seaside Heights, NJ

732-793-6488

Cenral Shore region

Starting with their new Toddler Area, it is ideal for the smallest member of any family. With safe, soft play throughout, your little one will slide and have a splashtacular good time.

They have something for everyone. Their Family Play Section is a totally interactive multi-level area for everyone from 3 to 103. With their water slides you will find a different experience with each twist and turn. Also, with hundreds of interactive play elements and dancing fountains you will not stay dry for long. All while having fun with your family and creating life long memories. Watch Out for the Tipping Troller, you may get thousands of gallons of water dumped on you (hopefully there won’t be any sharks). If after playing you are feeling a little chilly, jump into one of 2 new Hot Springs that will easily fit 20 people each.

For the brave at heart, test their Zero – Gravity Racer. This 6 Lane Racing Slide lets you compete against others as you plummet on a mat to the finish line. Forget relaxing in our LazyCrazy River … with cannons being shot off, bubbles coming from every direction and depth charges shooting you with water; you will never know what will be around the next curve. If you do want to relax, you can recline in one of our many lounge chairs throughout the park. Our other amenities include, bathrooms, lockers, changing areas, food
concession, and a gift shop for all your needs. As always, trained lifeguards are on duty to safely monitor all water activities.

This is only the beginning of a multi-year renovation to this new water park. Next year even more and exciting attractions will be added to what will be “The Best Water Park, On The Jersey Shore”

What’s New

Enjoy your day in your own private cabana where you can sit, relax, and take in the sun! Each cabana features 2 chaise lounge chairs, 2 beach-style chairs, 4 large bottles of water, a small locker rental, as well as food & beverage service right to you.

Cabanas are available for rent on a first come/first serve basis. Because of demand, we encourage advance reservations.

2010 Cabana Pricing

Cabana (all day) = $85 plus tax
Cabana (3 hour) = $60 plus tax

Please note that waterpark admission is NOT included with Cabana Rental. Admission into the waterpark is a separate charge. If you rent a cabana for the day, your admission wristbands must be valid for the entire day. Food, drink and gratuities are not included in cabana rental fee.

CoCo Key

Indoor Water Park

Mt. Laurel Marriott, 915 Route 73, Mount Laurel NJ

856-234-7300

Southern NJ

CoCo Key Water Resort, New Jersey’s ultimate indoor water park is located at the Mt. Laurel Marriott. CoCo Key Water Resort is an indoor water park. They have a  relaxing adventure river to  an incredible 40-foot slides, interactive play area, indoor/outdoor spa, state of the art arcade ! Wouldn’t it be great to be able to get away to the tropical islands any time you want without having to leave New Jersey? Now you can, at CoCo Key Water Resort, New Jersey’s Newest & Largest Indoor Water Resort.  CoCo Key combines the relaxation and enchantment of the islands with the wild excitement of a 55,000-sq. ft. indoor water park. Every day is a bright, sunny 84 degrees at CoCo Key, featuring a selection of signature attractions including:

CoCo Key Water Resort is seconds away from exit 4 of the NJ Turnpike, just 12 miles outside Philadelphia and minutes away from Adventure Aquarium and Cherry Hill Mall.

Hurricane Harbor

537 Monmouth Rd, Route 537, Jackson, NJ
732-928-1821

Central NJ

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor is conveniently located in Jackson, New Jersey.

Soak up the sun at the one of America’s best water parks — Six Flags Hurricane Harbor! This tropical island paradise offers a million-gallon wave pool, one of the world’s longest lazy rivers, nearly 20 water slides and a massive water playground for wet and wild fun!

What’s New

Tot Tornado whirlwind.  The Tornado, an enormous funnel-shaped water attraction, will offer guests the ultimate in tubing thrills all summer long when it opens May 29.

This exciting new water ride will blast thrill seekers down a 135-foot long vortex tunnel and into a 60-foot wide funnel.  During the journey, guests will blast into the eye of the storm, swishing from side to side by more than 5,000 gallons of water before being released into a calm and refreshing catch pool. Families can enjoy Tornado together in specially-designed, cloverleaf-shaped tubes that seat four.  Those not brave enough to take on this new thrilling adventure can ride out the storm from the observation platform which will feature a spectacular view of all the action.  The Tornado will touch down between the water park’s tube slides “Bada Bing, Bada Bang, Bada Boom!” and the speed slide complex “Jurahnimo, Cannonball & Wahini Falls.”

The Tornado will join a host of thrilling Hurricane Harbor rides and attractions including an enormous half million gallon wave pool, one of the country’s longest “lazy rivers,” a massive, two-story family water playground and nearly 20 high-speed thrill slides.

“We are excited to add a new dimension of thrills to our water park,” said Mark Kane, park president of Six Flags Great Adventure, Wild Safari and Hurricane Harbor.  “The Tornado’s innovative shape and enormous size will allow families and friends to experience the ultimate in non-traditional tubing, together.”

Sahara Sams

Indoor Water Park

535 N. Route 73, West Berlin, NJ

856-767-7580

Southern NJ

Imagine traversing a cargo rope obstacle course suspended over a rain forest lagoon, splashing your way through a 410 foot adventure river ride, having 1,000 gallons of water unexpectedly rain down from above, navigating through a wild maze of twisting and turning rapids with your family. Imagine experiencing it all indoors.
Welcome to Sahara Sam’s Oasis Indoor Water Park — New Jersey’s only freestanding Indoor Water Park and state of art arcade.

Sahara Sam’s is an innovative entertainment and activity experience that is a premier family attraction located in southern New Jersey just minutes from Philadelphia and accessible by major highways and bridges in New Jersey and the Philadelphia region. The $23 million venue offers nearly 58,000 square feet of water rides, interactive games, dining, party rooms and much more. Located in West Berlin NJ on a 13-acre parcel along Route 73, Sahara Sam’s represents the next step in providing affordable familydestination fun.

Sahara Sam’s Oasis Indoor Water Park features a wide array of exhilarating, state-of-the-art water rides and attractions, interactive games, and great ticket and party packages.

RETRACTABLE ROOF: One of the most unique aspects of Sahara Sam’s is its one-of-a-kind retractable roof, which opens up to let the outdoors in on sunny days.

TEMPERATURE CONTROL: Sahara Sam’s remains a warm 84 degrees of low humidity weather all year long thanks to a state-of-the-art temperature control system.

Pirates Cove- Land Of Make Believe

354 Great Meadows Road – Rt. 611, Hope, NJ
908-459-9000

Northwest NJ

For 56 years, the Land of Make Believe has been entertaining families from the tri-state area. Family favorites include our million dollar Action River Ride, a Roller Coaster, Buccaneer Pirate & Wading Pool, Tilt-A-Whirl, Civil War Locomotive, Hayride, Old McDonald’s Farm, Middle-Earth Theater, “Black Hole” #1 Rated Waterslide, Grand Carousel, Sidewinder, Pirates Fort, Pirates Cannonball, the Brand New Pirate’s Plunge, Jump Around Frog and Lots, Lots More.

As New Jersey’s Premiere Family Amusement & WaterPark, the Land of Make Believe features Safe and Wholesome recreation, entertainment and activities for real families like yours. You’ll find Exciting Rides, Shows, Attractions, Games, WaterPark, and Picnic Area on over 30 acres. The Land of Make Believe and Pirate’s Cove has been designed exclusively for an action-packed day of special family fun for parents and their children.

The Land of Make Believe is located in northwest New Jersey, 60 miles west of New York City, and 10 miles east of the Delaware River just off Route 80, exit 12. Nestled in the foothills of the famous Jenny Jump Mountains and State Park, the Land of Make Believe is a landmark in the historic town of Hope. Only one hour from the Lincoln Tunnel or George Washington Bridge, 90 minutes from Philadelphia or Scranton, PA.

Free Parking, Free Picnic Area and Free Water Park included with paid admission!

What’s New

Pirate’s Plunge,

Escape the pirates in this adventurous body slide. 42″ minimum height requirement to ride alone. Children under 36″ must ride w/adult.

New Jersey’s First Indoor Waterpark!

Splash Zone

3500 Boardwalk, Wildwood NJ

609-729-5600

Southern NJ

Mixing adrenaline-pumping thrills with family-style fun is our specialty. With more than 16 attractions, Splash Zone Water Park offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Adventure seekers can find super soaking thrills riding the white water rapids of The Beast of The East, the only 6-person raft ride on the east coast. Or roar through total darkness on The Midnight Run, a twisting, turning enclosed tube slide. Speed fans will enjoy testing their skills while soaring down the Speed Dominator. Giggle Bay offers an interactive water playground featuring our famous 1000-gallon bucket of water that crashes down, drenching everyone in its path. And the smallest water park fans can splash in Zoe Zone, a tiny tykes play area featuring a shallow pool of water, fountains, and soft play equipment. Everyone in the family can enjoy slides, body flumes, water blasters, or a meandering ride through the park on an inner tube in Adventure River. And when you’re not getting drenched in the water, Splash Zone offers sunbathing areas, a picnic facility and mouthwatering food at the Zone GrillFree Parking!

Mountain Creek

200 Route 94, Vernon, NJ

973-864-8444

Northern NJ

Mountain Creek Water Park in Northern NJ .The Park offers a variety of water-based activities for all ages and all swim levels.  Height restrictions are posted for all attractions and enforced.  Minors (anyone under the age of 18) must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian. The parent/guardian is solely responsible for supervision of their minors. The park does not assume any responsibility or liability for unattended minors. The park cannot accept any responsibility for unattended minors. Children are the responsibility of the parent or guardian.

Only you know your own, your child’s, or anyone you are supervising level of swimming skills.  We strongly recommend all Guests under 48″ or who are weak or non-swimmers wear Coast Guard approved lifejackets where appropriate. In the wave pool, all guests under 48″ are REQUIRED to wear a lifejacket and be accompanied by an adult.  We insist that parents keep their children within arms reach for their close supervision on all water activities. Life Jackets are available Free Of Charge at Guest Information located inside the park.  When in doubt, wear a life jacket!

What’s New

Mountain Creek has a whole new twist on coming down the mountain. Introducing the Alpine Pipeline, a high-flying, two person Alpine express that goes from daylight to darkness in the blink of an eye. Come ride the new Alpine Pipeline and discover for yourself the unparalleled sensation of screamin’ down the mountain like a comet through a carwash.  It’s definitely NOT for wimps.

Keansburg Runaway Rapids

275 Beachway Ave, Keansburg, NJ
732-495-1400 Right across the street and just a few steps from The Keansburg Amusement Park is Runaway Rapids Water Park. You can purchase a two park pass so you can go to the waterpark or Amusement Park all day. Runaway Rapids has dozens of rides and interactive attractions. There is also a very nice sunbathing area surrounding the play pool areas. The park has been recently cleaned up a bit and some all  new features have been added to the waterpark.

Raging Waters-Morey’s piers

Morey’s Piers, 3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood NJ

609-522-3900

Southern NJ

Enjoy the thrills at Raging Waters Waterpark in Mariner’s Landing Amusement Pier located on Schellenger Ave. in Wildwood, NJ.  Morey’s Piers original beachfront waterpark offers the thrills and the fun things to do that you and your family have come to love on your family beach vacation.  Attractions include:

• Waterpark rides and waterpark attractions for all ages
• Two interactive children’s play areas
• Picnic facility for group outings
• Wreckers beach grille
• Raging Waters waterpark locker shop
• Central location – a great pier!

Ocean Oasis – Morey’s piers

Morey’s Piers, 3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood NJ

609-522-3900

Southern NJ

Ocean front water park. Kids of all ages will love Bonsai Beach, a 10,000 square foot interactive water play area. Several fun water slides the older kids will enjoy, also. While the kids enjoy the great rides, mom and dad can relax in the all new resort-themed atmosphere, which features include family cabanas and huts, hammocks, massage therapy, and plenty more! Beach Grille and Oasis Cafe are open all day to satisfy the entire family.

Clementon Splash World

114 Berlin Road, Clementon, NJ

856-783-0263

Central NJ

Cool off with over 13,000 square feet of splashing, sliding, drenching, beat-the-heat fun. This Polynesian-themed adventure includes 8 slides, 10 different play platforms and more than 125 sprays, jets, bubbles, streams, squirts, wheels and waterfalls. And high atop the 50-foot tall structure sits the big Kahuna himself—with a giant water bucket that dumps more than 422 gallons of water on the unsuspecting islanders below. Children under 6 years of age must have adult supervision. Some slides have a minimum of 36 inches, others have a minimum of 40 inches.

Thundering Surf Waterpark

8th Street & Bay Ave. Beach Haven (LBI), NJ

609-492-0869

Central Shore Region

Thundering Surf Water Park is definitely the place to spend a few hours with the entire family! We are located in Beach Haven on Long Beach Island, NJ. We have something for all ages! Toddlers can play in our BRAND NEW Kiddie Play Area called “Cowabunga Beach”. This area is designed specifically for ages 9 months to 5 years old. Our new “Dancing Fountains” are something everyone will love! Take some great pictures of your children trying to catch the fountains as they jump and dance around the kiddie area! Our 6 Giant Waterslides are designed for single and double tubes. Parents are able to slide together with a child! Experience our one-of-a-kind “Lazy Crazy River!” While the river is Lazy, cruise around with the current and relax. But don’t get too cozy…. when the river turns “Crazy”… be prepared as a small wave rolls through the river because you’re going to get wet! Along the river, parents and children can interact with others that are outside of the river with slap targets and super soaker water guns. So don’t think that just because you are standing on the interactive bridge that you are going to stay dry! And watch out for the “Giant Tipping Bucket” as you cruise around the river and under the bridge!

Come have some fun…. or just relax and sunbathe on our SunDeck located inside the waterpark so you are never too far from you children!

PLEASE  POST YOUR COMMENTS ABOUT ANY OF THESE FAMILY- FRIENDLY WATER PARKS. WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR YOUR OPINIONS,TIPS AND INSIGHTS.

“Every show performed here is different and is basically done on the fly,” explained The Music Man owner Aggie Roberts. “You could come here seven nights a week and see something different each time you come, because each show features a different performer and group performances.”  One thing that is certain to stay the same, however, is the enthusiasm of the cast and crew, as well as the quality time you will spend with your family.

You will be treated to a menu featuring everything from “naked” ice cream in over fifteen flavors to delicious over-the-top sundaes, along with a nightly performance of Broadway and upbeat American tunes sung by performers who dance and sing their way around the entire shop.  You may even find them singing directly to you and incorporating you into their show!  “It’s a family entertaining experience that appeals to all ages,” says Aggie’s wife, Josephine.

Aside from the nightly Broadway Cabaret show, which begins every night this summer at 6pm, The Music Man performs Theme Shows are on Thursdays and Fridays.  On Thursdays you can make a reservation for “Hannah Banana” This show finds the Music Man Cast auditioning for the title, it’s Hannah Montana meets American Idol.  Fridays at 5pm guests can make a reservation for The GLEEful “Ice Cream Musical,” featuring songs that have been presented on the ever popular TV Show GLEE.

“Apart from our Broadway Cabaret and Theme Shows we have our Children’s Fairy Tale Series,” added Aggie.  “At 4pm Monday through Wednesday, we offer a Children’s Performance where each child is treated to an afternoon snack of one scoop of ice cream as our cast members either get into character as Pirates and Princesses, or bring alive some of their favorite storybooks.” Aggie explained.  On Mondays, bring your little one dressed up as his or her favorite Pirate, Princess or Super Hero as the cast and crew themselves get all dressed up along with them.  On Tuesdays a special Puppet Theater performance of The Little Mermaid is offered as well as a special guest appearance from The Music Man’s mascot “FRED”, which stands for Feel Good Every Day! Wednesdays, your child can experience one of their favorite storybooks come alive as the cast visually tells stories such as Beauty and the Beast, The Wizard of Oz, and Cinderella, and turns into character right in front of their eyes

Going into their 8th season, and serving over 40,000 patrons in the summer of 2009 is something that owners Aggie & Josephine are very proud of.  “My wife actually purchased this very building [the shop’s location] for my birthday present in 2003.  I was working in corporate America at the time, but had the desire to combine my love and experience in performing arts along with my wife’s experience as a digital artist and make us a career from that,” Aggie explained. Aggie took his experiences of working at Princeton’s McCarter Theatre’s Outreach Department, and also as a dessert theater performer in Hopewell, NJ, along with his educational background in Theater and Education, and the concept of “The Music Man” was born.  “From the start, Josephine and I knew this would not fail.  We had our hearts in it, and it empowered us as a couple to try something new.  This summer is our 6th and best season yet, and I have never once looked back on our decision” Aggie added.

The cast and crew have also completely bought into the concept and truly love what they do. They are the heart and soul of the ice cream shop, doing everything from performing daily to hundreds of patrons, to working hard at their individual production positions.  “We provide our cast with a complete educational program.  Not only do they perform each and every day, but they each hold a different production position, which gives them a well-rounded summer learning experience.  Some of the positions include company manager and box office manager.”  Aggie added that he and his wife have even set up housing for the cast for the entire summer, and their program has attracted performers from all over the country.

New to their menu this year is the Improv Comedy Bunch, new live show designed to make you laugh a lot!  If you like the show “Whose Line is it Anyway?” then please come out and support this new adventure at The Music Man. The Improv Comedy Bunch is a reservation show be sure to call ahead. Tickets are $8 and include a “bottomless” coffee cup.  Ice Cream and other treats are available at an additional price. Gratuity not included.   Our Morning Café opens at 7am when the phone starts ringing as our guest start planning their day.  And once the summer is over, be sure to ask about The Music Man’s education outreach program. You can have The Music Man and it’s cast brought right to your child’s school this winter to perform character education and leadership programs.  For further information and questions visit, www.njmusicman.com <http://www.njmusicman.com>  or call 732-854-2779.  The Music Man is located at 2305 Grand Central Ave (Route 35 North) Lavallette, NJ 08735

Severe and frequent sunburns in childhood increase one’s risk of later developing malignant melanoma (the most dangerous type of skin cancer). The less dangerous forms of skin cancer are due to long term, regular sun exposure. Even on cloudy days, 30-50 percent of the sun’s ultraviolet rays can reach us and potentially damage one’s skin.

There are some very simple tips to follow to ensure that children are safeguarded from the sun – while also ensuring that they enjoy the sunny summer months.

*Limit outdoor playtime when the  sun is strongest, usually between 11 am and 3 pm.

*Make maximum use of shade –  whether natural in the form of trees, or make shade with umbrellas, hats and  visors.

*Dress children in long sleeves and  pants whenever possible. Clothing with tightly woven fabric that you can’t see  through typically offers the best sun protection.

*Avoid skimpy clothes sundresses  and sleeveless T-shirts because they leave especially-vulnerably body parts  exposed – shoulders and the back of childrens’ necks. Wide brimmed hats can  also help cover these areas.

*Sunscreen, sunscreen,  sunscreen. Use a moderately strong sunscreen of at least SPF 15 on children,  and reapply often. The sunscreen you choose should have both UVA and UVB  screens and a waterproof sunscreen should be used for swimming and sports.  Please note that sunscreen should not be used on children  under six months of age.

*Sunglasses protect even the  youngest of eyes so ensure that sunglasses have an ultraviolet coating.

In the event that your child does get sunburn, cool the area in tepid water for 30-60 minutes, but don’t let the child get too cold. After-sun products are available to help cool and add moisture back to the skin.  Consult a physician immediately if blisters or a rash appear, or if a child shows other signs of illness along with the sun-burned skin. Always call a doctor if a baby gets sunburn.

For More Information,

1100 Route 72 West, Suite 304

Manahawkin, NJ 08050

609-978-9639

Bob and Lori Ziemer Owners of Pied Piper Swim School

By Susie Sutter

Drowning is the fourth leading cause of accidental death in the United States among adults and the second leading cause of accidental death among children 14 years old and younger.  For every one child that dies, three others receive emergency room care for non-fatal submersion injuries.  With such a high rate of death and injury, why aren’t more people signing their children or themselves up for swimming lessons?  Although every summer you hear more and more reports of children, teenagers or adults drowning in the ocean because they did not obey the warning signs or children were not being watched carefully around a pool.   Too many times we’ve heard a preschooler or toddler climbing a ladder to get a toy or walking by the edge of an in ground pool and accidentally falling in.  A small elementary school child falling in during a party and no one noticed them in the water until it was too late.  A number of drowning deaths occur when children fall into a pool and are unable to swim or lift themselves out from the side of a pool.  A large number of adults do not know how to swim.  They assume since they can stand in a pool or close to the shore, there is no need to learn basic swimming technique.  What if your child needs help in a pool?  What if you are faced in an emergency situation where you need to jump into the water where you can’t stand up?   Avoidable heartbreaking tragedies can be changed by a phone call.   Pied Piper Swim School in Toms River has been offering life saving swimming lessons since March 1994.  Bob and Lori Ziemer own and operate the swim school, which stresses water safety and swimming skills.  Betsy Noon has three children, twin two-year-old boys and a daughter who is three, registered at Pied Piper and says swimming lessons are important because it is something they can use forever.

The sessions offered at Pied Piper normally run 6 weeks.  Classes are small with only 6 students and are 30 minutes long twice a week.  They offer year round lessons and encourage all their students to their own individual ability.  Evaluations are scheduled three weeks before starting a class to determine a student’s comfort level in the water, age appropriateness and physical strength.   If children have had lessons before, Bob and Lori want to ensure they are placed in the correct class to improve their swimming skills.  Ages of the students vary from 6 months old to adults.  Tiffani Troboughís son, Hunter, began taking lessons at 10 months old.  She feels it is imperative to learn to swim early; the earlier the better.  What they’re learning is saving their life.   Parents can stay and observe their children during lessons.  They are encouraged to reinforce what their child is taught in class.

Some may think 6 months old is too soon to start teaching swimming.  However, acclimating children early to feel comfortable in the water is key to a successful swimmer.   Instructions begin by having them put their face in the water and blow bubbles.   Getting the child to kick on command and see the reaction of water splashing relates to the movement of kicking.  Betsy Noon adds classes are small and they get one on one attention. Kids follow instructions even at such a young age. I a large number of young children through adult age have a fear of water.  Introducing children to a pool of water early in their life helps them relax in the water.  It also creates a wonderful bonding time for child and parent.

As soon as children start to walk and pull themselves up is a sign they are physically capable to begin to swim.  They are developing the muscles they will need to use while learning.  Kicking and splashing in water comes naturally to children.  You put them in a bathtub and they immediately kick and love that the water is moving and hitting them in the face.  Instructors provide fun activities for their young students using duck barbells, kick boards, bubbles and Easter eggs for them to grab.  Tiffani Trobough says the kids think they’re playing when they’re actually learning. Water safety is emphasized throughout all the classes no matter the age.  Feeling at ease in water is an important aspect to a young child or adult who has a fear of water.  Classes not only teach swimming, but also feeling comfortable in any water environment whether it be a pool, ocean, lake or pond.

Not only is swimming a life saving activity, but Pied Piper instructors emphasize and teach their students how to climb out of a pool.  If a child falls into a pool, they more than likely will not fall in by the steps or a ladder.  They need to build strength and practice lifting themselves out of the pool on their own.  It also allows them to gain the confidence that they know what to do and how to get out without panicking.  They are comfortable enough to swim to the side calmly and pull themselves out.

Pied Piper Swim School has an enormous amount of patience with their students.  Instructors face a number of different anxieties from a variety of ages.  Toddlers and young children may become upset because they don’t want to get in the water.  They work with parents and children to help them feel at ease in and around the pool.  They work slowly and carefully with their students until they feel they are ready.  Small steps make huge accomplishments.

An area where most people may not think a swim school can be beneficial is training swim team members.   Speed and timing are essential at a swim meet.  Losing a fraction of a second on a flip turn can decide between first or second place.  Training swimmers to improve their swimming technique, enhance their strength and build their endurance is a class that is offered year round at Pied Piper Swim School.  Gail Brown’s nephew, Derek Hopkinson, started taking classes with Bob and Lori when he was 2 Ω years old.  He’s now a freshman on the Toms River East Swim Team.  This year Derek won the Most Outstanding Newcomer Swimming Award and received a Varsity Letter as a 9th grader.

The instructors emphasize water safety and teach swimming in a fun and loving atmosphere.  They offer classes year round for a variety of different ages.  Neighbors, friends and family members may have an in ground or above ground pool that you and your children should feel comfortable around.  Living in a shore community and frequenting the beach, you and your children need to possess certain strengths to keep you safe from drowning.  Don’t let another child, teenager or adult be a statistic.  Be aware of the dangers of the water, whether it’s the ocean, lake, pond, stream or pool.  Keep them safe by providing them with swimming lessons.

Frequently Asked Questions About

Pied Piper Swim School

After teaching swim for over 20 years and owning Pied Piper Swim School for over 17 years, we have learned to incorporate many of our own ideas with the traditional American Red Cross,WSI (water safety instructor)way of teaching.  Along the way many of our parents have asked us why we do certain skills and what is the child learning from doing it. Here are some of our most popular questions from parents & their answers.

Nikki S., Toms River- “We have heard that your swim school program is strict?”  “Why?”

Pied Piper- Our program is a very structured and sometimes strict program.  It is our job to be able to teach the child how to respect the water and those in it as well as have fun. With that in mind we do need to run the program with a certain amount of authority for the child to be able to know the difference between lesson time and play time.  Many children view swim time as play time only & while that seems fun and exciting they also need to know first and foremost how to respect the water.  With respect of the water and the rules surrounding it, comes safety & with that comes a safe and fun swimmer.

Elizabeth D., Lavallette -”Why does my child need to learn how to jump/dive in if they don’t like to do it?”

Pied Piper- Children need to learn how to safely enter the water whether jumping or diving.  If a child accidentally gets bumped or pushed into a pool, lake, river etc…and does not know how to land safely they can cause major harm to themselves and others.

Larry D., Toms River- “Why do you have the children climb out at the wall instead of using the stairs?”

Pied Piper- It is very important for children to learn how to climb out of a  pool.  There might not always be a set of stairs near enough for a child to climb out on.  Chances are that if a child is going to accidentally fall into a pool, it’s not going to be near the steps or ladder.  Climbing out is an essential safety skill all children need to know and believe it or not, it is much harder then it looks.

Kathleen M,Toms River-”Why don’t you allow children to wear goggles?”

Pied Piper- We believe that children need to learn how to swim without goggles because it allows them to become comfortable with the water getting in their face and eyes.  when children use goggles all the time they become accustom to the water not being in their eyes & find themselves unable to open their eyes to see if the goggle fall off or fill up with water.  This can sometimes cause panic even in a child who is a confident swimmer.

Mandy P., Toms River- “Why do you have children swim through hoops that are submerged underwater?”

Pied Piper- Having a young child grab a slightly submerged hoop with their hand, put their face in & lift the hoop over their head teaches them how to get objects (rafts, tubes, etc…)off themselves if they were to get stuck underneath.

Gina D., Brick- “Why do you have children get objects off the bottom of the pool?”

Pied Piper- Having a child attempt to get items off the bottom of the pool teaches them to be aware of their breath.  How to control the amount of air they are letting out & how to know when they need to come up.  A child needs to be able to feel that on their own & having a goal in the form of picking up an object for them is a great way for them to accomplish it.

For over 17 years we have been blessed & privileged to provide swim lessons to many families and hope that we have allowed each child to accomplish the goals that their families hoped they would achieve.

Dinosaurs once again roam the earth in a spectacular theatrical arena show, WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular, based on the award-winning BBC Television Series. WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular is now on tour in North America and will perform 12 performances at Madison Square Garden in New York. More than 3.1 million Americans have already seen the production since it opened in July 2007.

The show originated in Australia, where after years of planning, WALKING WITH DINOSAURS came to life at Sydney’s Acer Arena in January 2007.  The show proved itself such a sensation, that this North American tour was fast-tracked.  It began a short three months after completing its sold out engagements in Australia. Since that time, the show’s two companies have played to 4.4 million people worldwide and generated over $210 million dollars in overall ticket sales.

WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular is brought to North America by The Creature Production Company, headed by CEO Carmen Pavlovic.  Pavlovic said, “The BBC Series was a brilliant blend of special effects, escapism, excitement and information.  Our show brings together all of that, plus something extra -  it’s live!   In this production, seventeen roaring, snarling “live” dinosaurs mesmerize the audience – and are as awe-inspiring as when they first walked on earth.”

Pavlovic continued, “The dinosaurs are life-size, making the show so immense, it could only fit in arenas. It’s a $20 million arena spectacle of unprecedented size and quality, which captivates young and old alike. With Walking with Dinosaurs, we really believe we have created a new genre in entertainment and we hope to continue to bring new product to arenas for years to come ”

WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular has s been seen on “The Today Show,” Good Morning America,” “Live with Regis and Kelly,” and has been written about in Newsweek, The New York Times, the Christian Science Monitor and the Wall Street Journal. It was the subject of a Discovery Channel Really Big Things episode and a video clue category on Jeopardy.

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Tim Haines, creator and producer of the original BBC series, which was seen by a worldwide audience of 700 million, serves as Project Consultant to WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular.  The series won six Emmy and three BAFTA Awards.

Ten species are represented from the entire 200 million year reign of the dinosaurs.  The show includes the Tyrannosaurus Rex, the terror of the ancient terrain, as well as the Plateosaurus and Liliensternus from the Triassic period, the Stegosaurus and Allosaurus from the Jurassic period and Torosaurus and Utahraptor from the awesome Cretaceous.  The largest of them, the Brachiosaurus is 36 feet tall, and 56 feet from nose to tail.  It took a team of 50 – including engineers, fabricators, skin makers, artists and painters, and animatronic experts – a year to build the original production.

The show depicts the dinosaurs’ evolution, complete with the climatic and tectonic changes that took place, which led to the demise of many species.  With almost cinematic realism, WALKING WITH DINOSAURS has scenes of the interactions between dinosaurs, and the audience sees how carnivorous dinosaurs evolved to walk on two legs, and how the herbivores fended off their more agile predators.

The history of the world is played out with the splitting of the earth’s continents, and the transition from the arid desert of the Triassic period is given over to the lush green prairies and forces of the later Jurassic.  Oceans form, volcanoes erupt, a forest catches fire — all leading to the impact of the massive comet, which struck the earth, and forced the extinction of the dinosaurs.

Variety said, “The dinosaurs are stunning, life-size and faultlessly nimble. In act one, the beasts parade into the arena gnashing and cavorting as a safari-suited paleontologist describes their attributes … in the second half, the action cranks up, culminating in a spectacular clash as a T-Rex mom defends her baby from predators. Sonny Tilders’ triumphant creature design ensures ‘Walking With Dinosaurs’ is a truly spectacular spectacular. It is everything a dino-phile could want.”

The New York Times said that in this show dinosaurs make “a thundering comeback after 65 million years.”

Gloria Goodale of the Christian Science Monitor said, “When the dinosaurs start pouring out onto the stage, if you don’t have to stifle the natural flight response of any living breathing being, then it’s your pulse that needs checking.”

Newsweek called the show, “that rare entertainment beast that parents and kids can enjoy together.”

It took 50 artists and technicians one year to build the show. The 17 dinosaurs were originally “hatched” by Tilders, the head of creature design, in a Melbourne Docklands workshop big enough to park a 747. For the North American tour, the only building large enough to house rehearsals for the dinosaurs – some as large as 36 ft tall by 56 ft long, was the Greater Tacoma Convention and Trade Center!

Artistic Director William May is known around the globe for co-producing shows with Malcolm Cooke for the past 30 years, including The Hobbit and The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe.  He produced Marilyn An American Fable on Broadway and co-composed and wrote the musical Always for the West End.

Director Scott Faris directed Michael Crawford in EFX at MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas, which at the time was the biggest stage production ever conceived, and was on the production team that created Siegfried & Roy at the Mirage Hotel.  Faris has directed Chicago the Musical in 16 countries around the world in over a dozen languages. Most recently he directed Bette Midler in her new Las Vegas show, The Showgirl Must Go On at Caesars Palace.

Faris said, “We take the audience on a journey back in time and show them how the dinosaurs might have actually looked in their prime – huge, sometimes frightening, sometimes comical monsters – that fought for survival every day of their lives.  Our dinosaurs move exactly like they are real — with all the roars, snorts and excitement that go with it.  The realism is mind-blowing!”

Sonny Tilders, who designed and built the creatures has been, for the past decade, one of the major creative forces of the high-tech world of animatronic puppetry for film and television.  He was one of the lead animatronic engineers for Jim Henson’s Creature workshop on the Farscape series, followed by work on Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith, Peter Pan, Ghost Rider and The Chronicles of Narnia.

Tilders said, “Many of the technologies we are using on WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular are borrowed from film. The computer software and hardware we have developed is based on the systems used to control animatronic creatures in feature films.”

“To make it appear that these creatures are flesh and blood weighing six, eight or even 20 tons, we use a system called ‘muscle bags,’ made from stretch mesh fabric and filled with polystyrene balls, stretched across moving points on the body.  These contract and stretch in the same manner that muscle, fat, and skin does on real creatures.”

“The puppeteers use ‘voodoo rigs’ to make many of the dinosaurs move.  They are miniature versions of the dinosaurs with the same joints and range of movement as their life-sized counterparts.  The puppeteer manipulates the voodoo rig and these actions are interpreted by computer and transmitted by radio waves to make the hydraulic cylinders in the actual dinosaur replicate the action, with a driver hidden below the animal, helping to maneuver it around the arena.”  Suited puppeteer specialists, who are inside the creatures, operate five of the smaller dinosaurs.

Warner Brown wrote the script of WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular. He is an accomplished writer whose works include the book of the musical Flickers on Broadway, the screenplay of Nijinsky for Regent Entertainment, the musical The Black and White Ball, which features music by Cole Porter and The Truth About Light, written with composer Jimmy Roberts.  Other credits include a new version of Half A Sixpence for the West End in 2008, Garbo – The Musical with music by Jim Steinman and Michael Reed, playing in Europe, and the plays and musicals Scandal, The Biograph Girl, Six for Gold, Cinderella, Talullah for a Day and Dance for Life.

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WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular will perform 12 performances at Madison Square Garden in New York. The performance schedule is:

• Wednesday, July 21, 2010 – 3PM & 7PM
• Thursday, July 22, 2010 – 11AM & 7PM
• Friday, July 23, 2010 – 11AM & 7PM
• Saturday, July 23, 2010 – 11AM, 3PM & 7PM
• Sunday, July 25, 2010 – 11AM, 3PM & 7PM

Tickets for the general public are on sale NOW by calling 866.858.0008, online at www.thegarden.com/dinos or in-person at the Madison Square Garden Box Office. For groups, please call 212.465.6080. For more information, please visit www.dinosaurlive.com. Video of the show is available on our site under “Meet The Dinosaurs” tab in the middle of the front page.

Eating cool, drippy ice pops on the patio.  Long walks through the neighborhood after dinner.  Trips to the park or to the beach.   Frolicking in the backyard grass sans shoes.   In summertime, the weather is warm and the sun sets later which gives families a lot of time to spend together outdoors.  Hectic school schedules and activities are also on hiatus.  This allows for more freedom to play and chances to strengthen those family bonds.   Whether you’re grilling up burgers on the grill or heading out to play in the surf, summer is a great time for making memories and establishing traditions.

Some families look forward to the start of summer so much, they have a yearly ritual to ring in the beginning of the three-month vacation from homework and soccer practices.

Katie Zebick of Brick loves the tradition her sister has started with her family.  She thinks it’s such a clever idea, that she may even use it with her own brood.

“After my sister prepares breakfast on the last morning of school, she jumps into the pool with her clothes on,” says Zebick who is a mother of three.  “It is her way of celebrating the end of the school year.  Her kids get a kick out of it and think it’s a fun way to start off summer.”

After the backpacks and soccer cleats are put away, families switch gears for a more relaxed, slower pace.  They also look forward to visiting different places and relatives or participating in activities that they may not have had time for during the academic year.  For families living at the Jersey Shore there are numerous places to go to enjoy the best of what summer has to offer.

The Burns family of Point Pleasant feels very fortunate to live in this area of the country.

“We do not travel much in the summer because we just love being at the Jersey Shore,” says Nancy Burns.  “A perfect summer day for our family would be to wake up and have breakfast together, get an early start to the beach and spend the day there.  The boys love the water and boogie boarding!  After returning home for showers and dinner, we usually walk to Hoffman’s Ice Cream in Point Pleasant.”

The Woit family, also of Point Pleasant loves to take in the sights and sounds on the boardwalk.

“We love to eat an early dinner at home and then go up to the boardwalk,” says Woit.  “The kids love to ride the rides and play with their toys in the sand.  It tuckers them out, and then we can put them to bed for a restful night of sleep.  You can also picnic there and watch movies on selected nights.  We love the summer!”

While it’s always nice to pop the kids in the car and head off to a different destination, sometimes the best memories are made right at home.

The Trench family of Keyport, recently traded in their huge gas grill for an old-fashioned charcoal kind.   The family enjoys standing around the fire and roasting marshmallows together.  The kids also love being in the backyard and having some water fun.

“We don’t have a pool, so I love turning on the sprinkler and letting them run around enjoying the simplicity of it all,” says Trench, who also likes to attend fairs and go to the boardwalk during the summer months.  “I also have a small plastic pool and I sit back while they splash around in it.  They always end up making mud pies.”

If your budget is tight and you can’t afford to travel, just use your imagination to create fun activities for your children in the backyard.  On a hot and humid day, they might like to cool off with a family squirt gun battle.  Maybe your kids want to try camping, but you’re not sure if they are up for the full experience in the woods.  How about setting up a play tent and lanterns in the backyard and tell them ghost stories inside their very own tents?  Since the school year is always jam-packed with things to do, slow down the pace and have a family game night and a family movie night each week during the summer.  Let the kids choose what they would like, including snacks for both gatherings.  Sidewalk chalk is also an inexpensive creative outlet which can be used on your patio or driveway.

Wherever you decide to go or whatever you do at home, just remember to have fun with your kids.  Enjoy this break from packing lunches, laying out school clothes, and working on last-minute projects.  Enjoy an ice cream, let the kids stay up a little later, watch some fireworks.  And remember to share a giggle and a smile with your children.  September will be here soon enough!

By Tricia Berwick

Between picking up the kids, making dinner, paying the bills, and cleaning up around the house, who has time for setting up dates with your spouse?  Even though your time and finances may be limited, it’s important to “schedule” time with your mate, just as you would any other activity.  Making time for each other away from the children and all of the stresses involved with daily life is extremely important and beneficial for your marriage and family life.  Kids love to see their parents happy, in love and together.  The only way the love you experienced from your dating days will last, is if you and your partner take the time to date one another.

If money isn’t an issue and you can afford to head out of the house, arrange for a babysitter to come and sit with the kids.  Grandparents are usually always willing to help out and appreciate time with the grandkids.  Or ask the child’s aunt or uncle to assist you.  If you don’t have family nearby, maybe you could swap babysitting with some good friends in the neighborhood.  Choose a restaurant that doesn’t feature kids’ menus, crayons, and strolling clowns with balloons.  Since you have the time alone without the kids in tow, splurge for a romantic, candlelight dinner and enjoy some different foods instead of the normal fare of chicken nuggets and macaroni and cheese.  If you happen to sit near a few little creatures, change tables right away!  This is your night not to hear whines, cries, “I need to go potty!” and have food flicked in your face.  So, by all means, move away from the danger zone and don’t feel guilty about it!

If dinner is too expensive, try eating out for breakfast which will definitely save you a few dollars.  Or just go out for a light lunch instead.  Look for coupons in your local newspaper or online to offset the cost.  Many times, restaurants offer a 2-for-1 deal which will significantly reduce your bill.

After dinner, try an activity that you used to enjoy pre-kids.  Maybe you want to lace up your skates and go for a few whirls at your nearest ice rink.  Or perhaps catch a movie that is doesn’t feature a million Disney characters and is rated “G.”  Try a museum that is geared for adults and doesn’t have dress-up clothes.   Or bowl a game or two for some exercise.  If you really want to be adventurous and daring, sign up for lessons together.  Check out your township’s recreation department and see if they have something you might be interested in.  For example, Howell Township Parks and Recreation offers ballroom dancing lessons for couples.  The cost is only $50 for six hour-long lessons which is very reasonable.  This would be a great opportunity to learn a new skill and to get some exercise while having fun and enjoying a few laughs together.  Participating in this type of activity will really regain that emotional connection you once enjoyed with your mate.

If you’re trying not to break the bank on your date night, stroll around a local bookstore, grab a cup of coffee and talk about some of the interesting tidbits you just read.  If you would rather be outdoors, plan an all-day hike or simply go for a walk or a bike ride together.  The important thing is to have a conversation and while some discussion of the kids is expected and allowed, try and keep it to a minimum.

If you really need to watch your pennies, put the kids to bed early and have your own date night in the comfort of your own home.  Feed the kids their supper, but then after their eyes close for the night, cook up a romantic dinner in the kitchen.  Open a bottle of wine, set the dining room table with your china (which you probably don’t use much), and get dressed up for dinner.  Treat it as a formal night out, just in your home.  If you enjoy making desserts more, have a baking date night.  Look through recipes and make some sweet treats together.  If gourmet cooking isn’t your style, stay casual and create an indoor picnic.  Get out your basket, spread out a blanket on the floor and enjoy your “picnic food” of sandwiches and salads.  Play some romantic music in the background and have fun creating either a meal or dessert together.

As for entertainment, you could play a game together such as Trivial Pursuit or one of the new DVD games which test your knowledge of your favorite shows.  Maybe you want to take out a classic board game like Monopoly.  Or rent a movie you missed in the theatre.   Do you have a project you need to work on, but can’t really do it with the kids around?  Go through your photo albums together while the kids are asleep or make a memory book of your family.

If finding a babysitter is just too difficult and you would like to actually leave the house for your date, see if there’s a drive-in movie theatre near your home (driveinmovie.com).  Have the whole family wear their pajamas and bring sleeping bags or blankets.  The kids can watch the show from the front seat while you and your spouse hold hands and cuddle in the back.  The kids will love the atmosphere and you will still enjoy the experience of a romantic date.

It’s true that we’re all busy running around from one activity to the next.  There are many responsibilities and tasks to be completed in the average day.  However, it’s also important to allow some down-time for you and your spouse to reconnect with each other.  Make your relationship a priority and plan a date night for this evening.  It doesn’t matter if it’s expensive or free.  The important thing is to schedule into your life.  There are many ideas to choose from, so no more excuses.  Just get creative and start planning!

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