By Tricia Berwick

It doesn’t matter if they are bike riding in the park, lacing up their skates for a few whirls around the ice or strolling on the boardwalk in Point Pleasant Beach.  What’s most important to the Lopez family of Toms River is spending time together.  Jack, a firefighter and Rhonda, a stay-at-home mom, are busy raising their three children in this suburban, family-oriented community.

The couple met while working together on Wall Street in New York City years ago.  Rhonda, who was born and raised in Ireland, ironically met Jack on St. Patrick’s Day here in America.

“Jack started working at my job on St. Patrick’s Day,” says Rhonda.  “That was definitely a sign that we were meant to be together.”

After they dated for awhile, the couple decided to marry in a civil ceremony in the United States.  Years later, the couple traveled to Ireland with their two children who were three and four years-old at the time and were married in Rhonda’s family church.

“We were married in the same church where I received my sacraments and my parents and grandparents were married,” says Rhonda.  “It was very important to me to have a religious ceremony in the church where I grew up and that meant so much to my family.  My daughter was the flower girl and my son was the ring bearer for the ceremony.  My youngest daughter wasn’t born yet, but we hope to make another trip back in the future so she can experience Ireland, too.”

For now, the family-of-five is busy with work, school, and extra-curricular activities.  With two teenage children, Rhonda spends a lot of time behind the wheel.

“I am basically the family chauffer now!” says Rhonda.

Even though the Lopez family has a pretty hectic schedule, they still make spending time together a priority.  One of their favorite family activities is to vacation in Disney World.

“We all absolutely love Disney,” says Rhonda.  “Disney is our vacation of choice every year.  The two older kids still love it and would go there two or three times per year if we let them.”

Your Child Today recently had the pleasure of getting to know the Lopez family a little more personally.  This is what Rhonda, mom of three children had to say:

YCT: Please tell us a little about your children.

Rhonda: My husband Jack and I have three children.  Caitlin is 14 and a freshman at High School South in Toms River. She loves to dance and takes three different dance classes at Shore Ballet, and assists with her little sister’s dance class, also. She also loves birds! She has a pet parakeet named “Kiwi” who thinks he’s a monkey!  He climbs upside down around the cage and jumps from perch to perch! Caitlin is also very artistic and loves to draw and create, and has always said she wants to be an art teacher when she grows up.  Of course, that may change though as she has shown a great aptitude for science and math as well.   Our son Alex is 13 and is in seventh grade at Intermediate South. He really is a typical boy.  Alex loves the game of football and enjoys rooting for The New York Giants.  He also spends a lot of time playing with his friends in the neighborhood.  He is a first class Boy Scout with Beachwood Troop 114 and aspires to become an Eagle Scout in a few years.  He also loves watching the Military Channel and is a Petty Officer 2nd class (NWS Earle Unit) with the US Naval Sea Cadet program.  He participates in this program one weekend every month with my husband, who is also involved.  Our youngest daughter, Isabella is five-years-old and is in kindergarten at Washington Street Elementary School.  She is enrolled in the afternoon session, so that gives the two of us the mornings to relax and spend a little time together before school.  I enjoy spending this time with her while the older two are in school.  They grow up so fast!  She also loves to dance, especially after watching her big sister for so many years.  This year, she decided to start classes at Shore Ballet.  She absolutely loves ballet and tap.  She recently started taking ice skating lessons and loves that, too.  She’s a friendly, outgoing little girl who likes nothing better than to play with other kids her age.  Thankfully, she has a bunch of cousins born within a year of her and they really enjoy spending time together.  Isabella also likes to play dress up in her princess costumes.  She is quite the girly girl!  She absolutely loves clothes and enjoys wearing dresses to school every day.  She changes outfits at least a few times per day!

YCT: What is a typical day like in your home?

Rhonda: A typical day involves a lot of driving!  Three kids on three different schedules both for school and extra-curricular activities can make for quite a full day! Once they get home from school they have a quick snack.  Then homework gets done while everything is still fresh in their minds, then either dinner or activities, depending on what time classes start that day.  We sit down together as a family for dinner a few times a week, but since my husband is a firefighter, that depends on his schedule.  After a little down time, the kids head to bed and then, finally it’s mom and dad’s turn to watch television and relax.

YCT:  What activities do your children participate in after school?

Rhonda:  Caitlin takes dance classes at Shore Ballet three nights a week and she participates in ice-skating on the weekends.  Alex has Boy Scouts once a week and Sea Cadets for one weekend out of each month.  Isabella takes a ballet/tap combo class at Shore Ballet and also ice-skates on weekends. In the spring we’ll add sports and swimming classes to that.  For now though, it’s manageable having one activity per day between the three kids and still having one night during the week to be activity free.

YCT:  What is your favorite thing to do locally with your family?

Rhonda:   We like to take the bikes to Allaire State Park.  They have a great bike trail and we try to do it as often as possible.  Isabella’s “bike” attaches to my husband’s so she’s never tired out like the rest of us!

YCT:  Do you have any favorite local vacation spots?

Rhonda:  Our favorite spot is Point Pleasant.  The kids love to walk on the boardwalk and then go on all of the rides.  We always make it a priority to get the “2 for 1 Ticket Sale” prices on Easter weekend every year.  Also, we love to go to the Cape May Zoo and Ortley Beach in the evenings when the crowds are gone.

YCT:  Have you ever gone on any vacations without

the kids and where?

Rhonda:  Not really, we’ve probably gone away for three weekends over the last 10 years without the kids. We really enjoy our family vacations and actually feel sort of guilty if we think about doing something without them. We are Disney Vacation Club members and like to take full advantage of that.  We go to Disney World almost every year and we never get tired of going.  We decided a long time ago that since our kids would only be young for a relatively short time, we want to make as many fun memories as possible while they still enjoy vacationing with us.  We hope to travel more together after they have all gone to college!

YCT:  What is your favorite date night location and how often do you get to go out alone with your husband?

Rhonda: While we don’t have date night as often as we’d like, when we do get out we like to go out with friends and have a nice dinner.  We also like to splurge every once in a while on a really good restaurant in Atlantic City.  It is closer than New York City and has some of the most fabulous restaurants in the world!

YCT:  What is your favorite non-mommy thing to do and how often do you get to do it?

Rhonda:  Although they are not regularly scheduled, I think nothing beats a good old-fashioned girls’ night out.  Whether it’s getting dressed up and meeting my sister, my sisters-in-law or friends or even just attending a home sales party where I get to shop and socialize at the same time, I really enjoy getting together with friends and family and leaving the kids home for a few hours!  It’s important to have that time once in awhile.

YCT:  What is your husband’s favorite non-Daddy thing to do?

Rhonda:  My husband likes to get together with his friends to watch a football game, or just hang out. He also really enjoys interacting with the kids in the Sea Cadet Program. He loves to set up training drills and seeing how much they enjoy learning about things like search and rescue, firefighting and first aid. He’s organized some pretty fun drills for the kids and they love it!

YCT:  Do you frequent any advertisers from our magazine?

Rhonda:  Shore Ballet is the best! My oldest daughter went to two other dance schools when she was very young and one was not good at all.  We were not happy with this particular school.   The second school placed too much emphasis on competitions and since my daughter didn’t compete, she was left out of a lot of the routines and just sort of stuck on the end of the line for recitals.  Thankfully, Shore Ballet has been a wonderful fit for us.  The teachers are all professionally trained dancers and my daughter has received a great education in ballet there.  Now she takes tap, jazz and lyrical as well and loves it even more. We get comments all the time on how great her posture is and how she holds herself so well.  When I hear those comments, I say everything is courtesy of ballet!

YCT:  Do you have any parenting advice that you would like to offer our readers?

Rhonda:  I think the best advice I have is to be organized and prepared for anything! My husband says I missed my calling as a Logistics Officer in the military! Also, invest in a slow cooker.  It’s a lifesaver on busy winter evenings! Being born and raised in Ireland, for me nothing tastes better on a cold winter evening than a yummy stew, and one that has been simmering in my slow cooker while I’m acting as the family’s chauffeur all day tastes even better!

YCT:  What is your favorite part of Your Child Today magazine?

Rhonda:  I love the Calendar of Events page and the Party Directory page. I always check out the party websites for new ideas for my kids’ birthday parties and the calendar is a great way to find things to do locally on days when my husband is off from work and we want to do something as a family.

By Tricia Berwick

Turkey and all of the trimmings, pumpkin pie, and plenty of football games can only mean one thing—Thanksgiving Day is here.  On the fourth Thursday of November, Americans will gather around a large dining room table, give thanks, and then enjoy a sumptuous holiday meal.  Of course, this festive feast is always the focal point of everyone’s day, but there are also many other ways to celebrate Thanksgiving with loved ones.

If your family has never attended The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, maybe it’s time to pack up the car and plan a trip into New York.  It’s one of those once-in-a-lifetime events that you must see in person to fully appreciate.  This famous parade will kick off the holidays in New York City and on NBC on November 25.  The exciting holiday tradition is seen by more than 3.5 million people who line the streets in New York and another 50 million people who watch the events on television across the country.  The parade will begin at 77th Street and Central Park West and conclude at 34th Street and 7th Avenue.

Kids love to watch their favorite characters as huge balloons and on colorful floats, the nation’s best marching bands, hundreds of cheering clowns, and a host of celebrities.  And of course, everyone looks forward to the first glimpse of the big red guy himself, Santa Claus.  Seeing Old St. Nick dressed in his fancy suit always kicks off the beginning of the holiday season.   If your family is going to travel into New York City to see the parade this year, it would be a good idea to get there super early.  According to the parade’s website, www.social.macys.com/parade2010, spectators line up as early as 6:30 AM to get good seats.  You can also find detailed information about the parade route and read all about the parade’s history on the website.  In addition, kids can enjoy an interactive experience by playing parade-themed puzzle and matching games.  If your family prefers to watch the holiday sights and sounds from the comfort of home, your children can still participate by creating their own parade routes on the Macy’s website.  The kids will have a blast choosing their favorite balloons and floats to line the city’s streets.

If you would like to teach your children about giving back to the community, find out which soup kitchens are located in your area and donate your time for the holiday.  Another option is to either donate food items or volunteer time at the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties (www.foodbankmoc.org).  Take a few minutes to browse through the website which provides information about how to become involved as a volunteer.  Today the FoodBank serves over 270 pantries, soup kitchens and other feeding programs with over 5 million pounds of food annually.  The FoodBank also operates a Culinary Training Program for people in need of better-paid jobs, a Kids’ Café, Backpack Program for children, a Mobile Pantry, and a Food Stamp Outreach Program.

If your family will be home for the holiday, begin a new tradition.  One idea is to create a “thankful basket” which will become the centerpiece of the holiday table and a conversation starter as guests enter your home to celebrate the occasion.  My husband and I began this tradition a few years ago when we hosted our first Thanksgiving, and now it is something our children and their cousins look forward to every year.  We started the collection by putting our own thankful thoughts down on paper and putting them in a basket.  We then asked everyone to include theirs as they arrived.  During dinner, the kids had tons of fun picking out the slips of paper and having us read the responses.  Of course, the responses led to some stories, laughs, and great conversation.   My husband and I felt this really taught our daughters about the meaning of the holiday and I would recommend it for any family this holiday season.

If you will be cooking in the kitchen most of the day on Thanksgiving, keep the kids busy by setting them up with an easy craft.  Place cards are the perfect way for your guests to know exactly where to sit around the Thanksgiving table, so give your kids a few supplies and let them go to work!  Only three supplies are needed for this cute and easy craft: a non toxic ink pad, blank cards, and markers.  First, have your kids place a thumb into the ink pad and then onto the blank card to print a turkey’s body.  Your children will then use the same technique with their fingertips to create a head and feathers.  Then, it’s time to use a few markers and add a beak, wattle, and feet.  This is the time your kids can be colorful and creative, too!  The final step is to write the guests’ names on the cards.  Not only is the craft colorful and creative, it’s also educational as children practice handwriting skills.  When the craft is completed, each place setting around the Thanksgiving table will be decorated with a colorful turkey.  Also, every guest will have a special keepsake or party favor to take home, also.

As Thanksgiving Day 2010 approaches, Americans will celebrate in a number of different ways.  Whether you are participating in a parade, helping those who are less fortunate, attending a local football game, or engaging the children in a few meaningful crafts, take a few minutes to savor the true meaning of the holiday.  As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, it’s important to slow down and remember all of the things you have to be grateful for in your life.   It may be easy to get caught up in the daily routine and forget what is truly important, but it just takes one trying situation to make you count your blessings.

Thanksgiving is on it’s way, and Color Me Mine is the place to be. What a great opportunity to spend quality time with your children creating a special  platter with turkey handprints on it. Bring your children to Color Me Mine and use their handprints to make a special Thanksgiving platter that can decorate your holiday table. We offer a variety of platters for you to choose from, or let your child design a special plate for them to eat off of. Having this business for over ten years and seeing the excitement on the faces of children when they pick up there pieces is priceless. Our knowledgeable staff is there to help with everything from choosing your piece to adding those special finishing touches. Color Me Mine has a variety of holiday items that can be painted and given to everyone in the family and will be treasured forever. An appointment is not necessary but recommended due to parties on the weekends. With the holidays approaching don’t waste another minute come in a create that platter that everyone can enjoy at dinner.

For kids holidays usually mean time off from school, on the other hand for parents it’s finding a way to spend time with their kids doing fun activities. Most parents enjoy the down time, and try to relax after finally having a little break from the busy school week schedule. On the other hand kids are always looking for something exciting to do. With the weather changing at a fast pace in New Jersey outdoor activities like going to the park become a thing of the past. When looking for a different activity where you could spend time with your kids, and stay warm bring your family to Color Me Mine, a paint-your-own ceramics studio in Toms River.  Color Me Mine welcomes all ages, and gives you the ability to do a family activity all while being creative. It’s a way for your children to express their imagination, and have fun doing it. This month’s feature activity is a Thanksgiving platter. The original creation can be used for the turkey holiday in a few weeks and then will become a treasured tradition in your family.

On November 19th at 6:00 pm, Color Me Mine will have a children’s turkey handprint plate painting party.  The studio’s friendly staff will help each child create their handprint to resemble little turkeys. All children must sign up for the event which costs $20 per child. There are only 30 spots available, so it’s a good idea to call the studio early to reserve your spots.

While family members create a wonderful keepsake for the holiday, Color Me Mine owner Irene says they’re also, enjoying spending time together, laughing, and creating memories. It’s a time to be creative, and relax.

“Creating a Thanksgiving platter together as a family will become a cherished memory,” says Irene. “Families can come to the studio and enjoy themselves. They can be relived from their usual hectic schedules, and express their inner creativity.”

“From experience people usually find that creating a piece seems intimidating, but there’s no need to worry about that ,” says Irene. With our staff who are always eager to help, and the tools we provide anyone can create a work of art in no time.

“What everyone needs to be aware of is that Color Me Mine is a place where everyone can get involved and have fun,” says Irene. “Most people don’t consider themselves artistic, and sometimes have a hard time coming up with an idea for their piece. We’ve got that covered with stencils, stamps, and plenty of ideas from our staff.”

Customers are more than welcome to bring items from home to help with the creative process. Customers come in all the time wanting to create a beautiful piece, but seem to be stumped on how to make that happen. “That’s where my staff comes in.” says Irene. The staff takes time to discuss what the customer is looking to create, and then helps with every step along the way to make sure the customer is happy. “Sometimes all it takes is a good idea from the staff, and the customer can add to the idea to make it personal,” says Irene.

“When doing an activity parents are always concerned when it comes to their children’s clothes, but there’s no need to worry about attire at Color Me Mine,” says Irene. All paints are washable, non-toxic and lead-free, so parents don’t have to be concerned about the kids inhaling harmful fumes. Color Me Mine’s paints and glazes are completely 100% friendly to the environment.

Color Me Mine isn’t only for the holidays. It’s a fun activity to do with your children any time of the year. You can come in and let your child create a piece to display in their room, or even a special gift for a loved one. A handmade gift from your child is always a great idea. Especially when your shopping for a person who is hard to buy for. And dads there is nothing your wife will love more then a gift made with love by your children for Mother’s Day, or even her birthday.

Ceramic pieces range from $6.00 and up and the paint fee is $6.00 for children and $8.00 for adults. The prices include glazes and firing.  After all of your projects are completed, the staff of Color Me Mine will fire and glaze the items and then notify you when everything is ready for pick-up.

With the colder months ahead days off from school are also approaching and kids will be asking the same question, “What are wedoing today?” If you’re looking for something to entertain the kids, plan a creative day out at Color Me Mine ceramics studio in Toms River. Your kids will be proud of their creation. Were sure when your guests arrive on Thanksgiving the first thing your kids will do is show everyone the platter they made.

You can even get a head start on your shopping list for the December season. With so many pieces to choose from, there is something for everyone on your list. For more information, call (732) 864-9300 or visit the website at www.colormemine.com

October 6

Celebrate Jersey Fresh Fruits: Pumpkins, Toms River Farmers Market, Huddy Park, on Water Street. 11 am – 5 pm. Rain or shine. 1st Wednesday of each month from June 9 – October 27. Enter to win a basket of Jersey Fresh produce! Farmers & vendors will feature the fruit of the month. Demonstrations & sampling by Downtown restaurants and businesses. Information: 732-341-8738 or www.downtowntomsriver.com – TOMS RIVER

October 8

9th Annual Columbus Day Parade and Italian Street Festival, Grant Avenue from Central Ave. to Boardwalk. 4 pm – 10 pm. Weekend of Italian specialties, arts and crafts, entertainment. Parade will be on Sunday at 1 pm with bands, floats, mummers and surprises on the Boulevard from J Street to Sampson Ave. Information: 800-732-7467 or www.seasideheightstourism.com – SEASIDE HEIGHTS

October 12

Toddler Make and Take, Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Boardwalk & Parkway. 9:30 am – 10:30 am. Make marine life crafts, listen to a story, and learn about some of their animals. This workshop is for children ages 3-5 years old with an adult. Pre-register. $ Information: 732-899-1659 or www.jenkinsons.com – POINT PLEASANT BEACH

October 15th & 16th

October 22nd & 23th

Jenkinson’s Ascareium

“The Sharks of Shipwreck Cove”

6:00PM to 8:00PM

Arrrgh Mateys! A band of pirates have returned to the aquarium but their

treasure is guarded by sharks!  Come join the crew for some halloween        fun for all ages!

$6.00 per person (does not include aquariums daytime admission)

October 16

Lighthouse Challenge of New Jersey, Along the coast from Atlantic Ocean, to Delaware Bay and Delaware River. Directions and hours on web page. Open day and night at Absecon, Barnegat, Cape May, Sandy Hook, Tinicum and Tuckerton Seaport Lighthouses. Day only at East Point, Finns Point, Hereford Inlet, Ludlam’s Beach, Navasink/Twin Lights, and Sea Girt, and Barnegat Light Historical Museum, Cape May County Museum, and Tatham Life Saving Station. Souvenir pamphlet to be stamped at each site is $1. Information: www.njlhs.org – BARNEGAT/TUCKERTON

October 16

Basketry – Bread Basket Workshop, Meadowedge Park 550 E. Bay Ave. 10 am – 12 pm. Create your very own bread basket to take home and enjoy. Expert basket weaver Pola Galie will provide you with the knowledge and materials for this program. $5 fee for materials and appropriate for ages 9yrs and up. Limited space. Code #101610 Information: 609-698-0080 ext. 130 or www.ci.barnegat.nj.us/recreation/recreationoffice.html – BARNEGET

5th Annual Wingstock Festival, FirstEnergy Park, Cedar Bridge & New Hampshire Aves. 2 pm. Kansas will headline with additional acts performing. All day festival featuring a wing cook-off and vendor village, classic bike and car show tailgate party $1 from tickets will be donated to an Ocean County children’s cancer organization, Ocean of Love. Presented by 105.7 The Hawk and the Lakewood BlueClaws. $ Information: 732-901-7000 or www.blueclaws.com – LAKEWOOD

Behind the Scenes Tours, Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Boardwalk & Parkway. 9:30 am – 11 am. Discover what goes on behind the scenes at their aquarium while you tour the building front top to bottom. Sneakers required. Pre-register. Ages 5 and up. $ Information: 732-899-1659 or www.jenkinsons.com

- POINT PLEASANT BEACH

Toms River Pirate Festival, Christ Episcopal Church 415 Washington St. 9 am – 5 pm. Three pirate reenacting groups featuring Valhalla’s Pirates, Jack Sparrow, Band on the Rum and Pirates for Sail play music all day. Sword fights, gun duels, cannons, and more. Come dressed as a pirate or pirate wentch for a costume judging. $ 3 under free. Information: www.tomsriverpiratefestival.com

- TOMS RIVER

53rd Annual Show of the Ocean County Chapter: “Guys ‘N Gals in Harmony,” Toms River High School North, 1245 Old Freehold Rd. 3 pm. Featuring the “Oceanaires,” the Ocean County Men’s Champion Chorus and the “Jersey Harmony Chorus.” $ Information: 732-240-2571 – TOMS RIVER

October 17

Seaside Half Marathon and 5k Race, Spicy’s, Sumner Ave. & Boardwalk. 10 am. Flat and fast, out and back on the boardwalk and into Island Beach State Park. Ocean and park views. $ Information: 732-240-0198 or www.oceanrunningclub.org/

- SEASIDE HEIGHTS

October 20

Ocean County College Midweek Jazz Series: Frank Vignola Trio, Mancini Hall, Ocean County Library, 101 Washington Street. 8 pm $ Information: 732-255-0500 or www.ocean.edu – TOMS RIVER

October 22,23

Haunted Seaport, Tuckerton Seaport, 120 W. Main St., Rt. 9. 6 pm – 9 pm. Pirates and sea captains long lost at sea, stroll the boardwalk for a night of screams. Hayrides, phragmites maze, food, refreshments and a non-scary pumpkin patch for the little ones. Fun for the whole family! Cost included with admission. Information: 609-296-8868 or www.tuckertonseaport.org – TUCKERTON

October 23

New York Yankees Greg Nettles Meet & Greet, Uncle Vinnie’s Comedy Club, 518 Arnold Ave. 11 am. Meet & greet, photo ops, Q & A session, autograph signing. $ Information: 732-899-3900 or www.unclevinniescomedyclub.com – POINT PLEASANT BEACH

October 27

Free Demomstation, Ocean County Artists Guild, Ocean and Chestnut Avenues. 7 pm – 9 pm. Open to the Public. Light refreshments. Information: 732-270-3111 or www.ocartistsguild.org

- ISLAND HEIGHTS

October 29

Meadowedge Family Spooky Campfire, Meadowedge Park 550 E. Bay Ave. 7 pm – 9 pm. Bring the family for spooky fun and ghost stories around the campfire. Tour the park on a night time hayride with the Barnegat Fire Company. Hot cider & snack will be provide along with other scary surprises. Feel free to dress in your Halloween costume. No fee and registration is required. Code #102910. Information: 609-698-0080 ext. 130 or www.ci.barnegat.nj.us/recreation/recreationoffice.html – BARNEGET

Haunted Halloween: A Party to Die For, The Engleside Inn, 30 Engleside Avenue. 6 pm. Murder mystery dinner show. Information: 609-492-9477 or www.surflight.org – BEACH HAVEN

October 30

Getaway with a Smile, White Pearl Hotel, 201 Sumner Ave. Comedy Show. One Night Accommodations include Bottle of Blueberry Champagne, Welcome cheese & crackers basket, Dinner Buffet for 2 catered by Caterer Jacques, free transportation clubs in town, valet parking, Sunday morning breakfast. Additional night can be added. Information: 732-830-4242 or www.thewhitepearl.com

- SEASIDE HEIGHTS

Toms River Fire Company #1 Halloween Parade, Main & Washington St. 7 pm. Over 100,000 spectators, thousands of participants & floats. Information: 732-558-9216 or www.tomsriverhalloweenparade.com/ – TOMS RIVER

By  Jennifer Enright

Now that the carefree days of summer are ebbing to a close, the Kehr family is ready to jump back into school and fall activities.  Roseanne and Dan Kehr live with their daughters, Jade and Jamie, ages 11 and 10 respectively, in Pine Beach, NJ and look forward to the return to routine each autumn brings.  Chief amongst the girls’ activities is their participation in the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore (GSJS).  Both girls began their Girl Scout journey as Daisy Girl Scouts while in Kindergarten.  Having progressed through Daisies and Brownies, Jade is currently a Junior Girl Scout with Troop 171, and Jamie will bridge to Juniors Troop 216 later this month.

Roseanne and Dan are thrilled that their daughters have become dedicated to such an established and well-regarded organization, as local scouts prepare to celebrate the Girl Scouts centennial anniversary in 2012.  “The girls get so much out of scouts – I’m so pleased that they choose to spend so much of their free time on this activity,” notes Roseanne.  “The lessons and skills they learn now as young scouts will stay with them for a lifetime.”  They feel fortunate that the girls are involved with the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore and the many opportunities it presents.

While attending weekly troop meetings is a fun staple, the girls revel in all the outings their troops engage in during the year.   They have attended Radio City Music Hall and Broadway shows in New York City, and last fall they toured Washington DC as a special trip.  Based in cabins at a scout camp just outside the nation’s capital (including a special cabin for the fathers who attended), the girls were able to visit the Capitol building, as well as the Lincoln and Washington monuments, and several museums.  They have also enjoyed overnight trips to a children’s museum in Mount Holly, NJ, and sleepovers at Amity Acres, the GSJS-owned camp in Waretown, NJ.

Jade and Jamie have taken part in various council events at Amity Acres and Camp Sacajawea, the GSJS’s Farmingdale, NJ facility, and visited many local business, including a floral designer and ice cream shop.  “They love to see the inside of the stores, the behind-the-scenes aspect, and learn how people do things for a living,” says Roseanne.  She continues, “I like that they get an idea of what is out there for them in the future and the careers they may find.”

Among their favorite scouting events is the “Powder Puff Derby” held each year.  The girls fabricate wooden cars and race on a track, much like the “Pinewood Derby” attended by Boy Scouts.  Both girls have worked together with their troop members to acquire achievement badges, and are now encouraged to work individually on the pursuits.  Roseanne comments that they love the badges and “they really like looking back and seeing what they have accomplished” each time they don their multi-patch festooned vests.

Above all else, Jade and Jamie enjoy the camaraderie with their troop members.  “They have invested so many years with their troop leaders, the same group of girls, and their parents that it has really become like a little family for them.  They have learned how to work together as a group towards a goal, and that is something they’ll use their entire lives,” says their mom.

As a stay-at-home dad since the girls were babies, Dan mans the fort at home.  In addition to ferrying the girls to many scout outings and meetings, Dan also devotes significant time to Jade’s troop’s ancillary involvement in a robotics program.  Run by Jade’s troop leader’s husband, Rich Morgan, the girls make robots out of Lego®-brand toys, program the robots to perform various functions, such as kicking a ball, or putting a ball in a cup, then compete in obstacle course style events against other area groups.  Dan also enjoys attending the Girl Scouts Father/Daughter Dance with Jade and Jamie every year.  Since Roseanne’s job as a teacher at Freehold Elementary School makes it difficult for her to attend all the scout activities, she really looks forward to the Mother’s Day Brunch for Girl Scouts and their moms held annually at a local school.

YCT: Tell us a little about your family and the personalities of each of your children.

Roseanne:  Jade is outgoing, energetic and musical – she plays the guitar, flute and piano and she sings.  She started taking piano lessons when she was five, and just got her first electric guitar.  Jamie is a bit quieter, more academic, and the family artist.  She plays piano but doesn’t like to perform as much as Jade.  Although they have their own bedrooms, they play together and get along really well like yin and yang.  They get along brilliantly and I feel lucky that they are such close sisters.  We are together a lot as family as we have always something going on or somewhere to go with such busy kids.

YCT: What is a typical day like in your home?

Roseanne:   During the school year, most days we have something after school, but our family rule is that they have to have one day with no scheduled activities.  I try to get that to be the same day for both of them, but that’s getting harder to do.  On those rare free days, the girls usually have a friend over to hang out.  We have dinner together every night as a family and usually at home.  Right before bed, the girls and I like to read together.  Sometimes we watch a show together like “American Idol” or one of the dance competition shows.  If the shows are on late, we record them and they watch them before school.  I have to leave for work very early but since Jamie has curly hair, she usually gets up so I can fix her hair.  Since Jade has straight hair, she can style it herself.  We always select outfits and make sure all notices are signed and everything is ready for school and after-school activities the night before because mornings are
hectic.  Dan gets their lunchboxes ready and gets them off to school.

YCT: What activities do your children participate in after school?

Roseanne: In addition to girl scouts, Jamie takes art classes one day a week at the Ocean County Artist Guild in Island Heights.  They have classes for kids and adults with a gallery downstairs and the studio upstairs.  Every other week or so, they have a showing of local artists, and once a week a group of accomplished older artists meets in the studio room to do their print making.  That is where they “lino-cut”, cutting up linoleum and making series of prints of their original work.  Jamie likes to go watch the process and the folks are friendly and like to talk, especially to interested young artists.  Jamie also takes piano lessons once a week at The Music Academy in Toms River.  Other than that, she doesn’t like to be busy every day – she likes to have time to just do her art at home.  Jade is the one that has to keep moving.  She attends Once Upon A Dance in Toms River for ballet and is adding jazz and hip-hop lessons this year.  They don’t have traditional recitals, but instead do performances of the Nutcracker Ballet at Christmas and a Spring Show.  This year the theme was “Alice in Wonderland” – the show is a combination of all the dances styles performing a different scene or part of the same show – a continuous performance.  The school provides all the costumes and props and the kids return them after the show.  Jade also attends a combination class at The Music Academy one day each week.  One week she takes piano and voice, the next week is guitar and voice.  She performs there four times a year, so she is very comfortable on stage and doesn’t get nervous at all.  In fact, the larger the audience, the more relaxed she is!

YCT: What is your favorite thing to do locally with your family?

Roseanne:  We love to go to the boardwalk in Seaside.  We start at the Fun Town Pier and walk up to Casino Pier hitting all the rides and games, and of course, all that delicious boardwalk food!  We also go to the Beach Plum Festival in Island Beach every fall.  We pick beach plums and stop at all the booths to see local artists and crafts, and get information about all kinds of environmental things, like saving the beaches, dunes, and animals.  It’s a wonderful way to spend a beautiful Indian Summer day!

YCT: Do you have any favorite local vacation spots?

Roseanne:  We always get a pass to drive on the beach at Island Beach State Park.  We love to go surf fishing, fly kites and boogie board.  The girls always find interesting shells and it’s great to picnic on the beach.  They also have various family programs and walking tours with the rangers to identify plants and birds.  One of our favorites is the seining program where families can seine on the bay side and the rangers describe what comes up in the net.

YCT: Have you ever gone on vacation without the kids?

Roseanne:  No, we tend to everything together as a family.  Childhood is so short and we want to be together as much as possible.  Last March, I had a fun weekend in Atlantic City with my girlfriends.  We got our hair done, went out to eat and saw some local bands.  The nicest part for me was not having to care for or pack for anyone else!

YCT: Do you have a favorite family-friendly restaurant?

Roseanne:  We like to go out a few times a month.  Our favorite places are Yesterday’s in Bayville, Chili’s in Toms River and The Music Man ice cream parlor in Lavallette.  Jade had her 11th birthday at The Music Man – we love the singing servers!

YCT: What is your favorite date night location and how often do you get to go out with just your husband?

Roseanne:  Right now, we don’t go out alone very often, but just the other night we had a nice dinner alone at the Lamp Post Inn in Pine Beach.  I’m sure we’ll do more of that as the kids get older.

YCT: What is your favorite non-mommy thing to do and how often do you get to do it?

Roseanne:  I guess my favorite thing is to go to the Oxygen gym in Bayville.  Although I don’t get there as often as I should, I try for three days a week.

YCT: What is your husband_s favorite non-daddy thing to do?

Roseanne:  Dan likes to spend time with friends – to go out to lunch or work on a project.

YCT: Do you patronize any advertisers from our magazine?

Roseanne:  The Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore is a great organization and I highly recommend it.  Sometimes it’s hard to find a troop, but it is worth the wait.  Jade and Jamie’s scout troops went to Sparkle Diva with some of the money they made from their cookie sale and had a fantastic time.  We have been to Color Me Mine for birthday parties and once made a project for Jade’s teacher there.  Of course, we really enjoy Casino Pier.

YCT: Do you have any parenting advice that you would like to offer our readers?

Roseanne:  My thing is to make time to talk to your kids.  I take advantage of car rides and am sure to actually listen to what they have to say.  I want to hear their point of view and keep that line of communication open so as they become older and become teenagers we can still talk honestly about difficult subjects.  I also swear by having dinner together and just finding as much time as possible to spend together.  You know, they grow up so fast!

YCT: What is your favorite part of Your Child Today magazine?

Roseanne:  Like most families, we rely on the calendar of events – we are always looking for what we can do for that rare time we do not have something scheduled.

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By Tricia Berwick

It’s late at night, the kids are fast asleep and you find yourself surfing through the television channels as a way to unwind and relax from a hectic day with the little ones.  You stumble across a show about some trash-talking, tanned and tattooed kids from New York who are vacationing in Seaside Heights for the summer.  Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock this past year, you know exactly the show I’m talking about.  It’s okay to admit it; you really do watch MTV’s hit reality series, “Jersey Shore” every time you flip through the channels.  You just can’t help yourself!  Even though you may think the program is utterly ridiculous and you could definitely be using your timing more wisely, you still find your eyes glued to the television.  You’re not alone; the show has steadily increased in popularity since its debut last year.

The show follows eight house mates spending time partying and hanging out on the Jersey Shore. The first season was filmed in August 2009 in a summer share in Seaside Heights, but was also filmed in other towns such as Toms River, Neptune and Atlantic City, New Jersey.  The gang took their show on the road to the South Beach neighborhood of Miami Beach, Florida for season number two which is currently airing on MTV.   This season’s mayhem has already included cheating boyfriends and pretty bad drunken behavior.  Some of the cast members have even been in trouble with the law.   Nicole Polizzi, also known as “Snooki” was arrested in August by the Seaside Heights police department for annoying people on the beach while the MTV crew was shooting the show’s third season which will be aired sometime next year.  She was first charged with disorderly conduct and public nuisance.

Even amid large amounts of controversy, “Jersey Shore” continues to do well in the ratings.  Since its debut, the show has received a significant amount of criticism from Italian American organizations because of the way the show uses the word “guido” to describe the house mates and for its portrayal of Italian-Americans in general.  “Guido” is generally regarded as an ethnic slur when referring to Italians and Italian Americans.

However, some people feel that the show is purely for entertainment purposes and should not be taken so seriously.  Howell resident and mother of two, Erika Decina says she enjoys a few laughs while watching the show and believes the program isn’t any different from other reality shows that are on television.  Even as someone with an Italian background, she doesn’t find the show to be offensive.

“I am 50% Italian and proud of my heritage,” says Decina.  “I think that Jersey Shore is must see reality television.  It joins the ranks of other reality shows like ‘The Hills’  which ended in such a way that you did not know what was truly real.  I think as with a lot of these shows, much is done for entertainment value; they need to get and keep ratings and what better way than to stir the pot and create controversy.  If you choose to watch the show I think you must do so knowing it is not a true reflection of what all of New Jersey is like – after all, only one of the roommates is truly from New Jersey.”

Others feel more strongly about the premise of “Jersey Shore” and cannot fathom why people make watching the show a priority in their lives.  Jackson mother Christine Sutter finds the success of the show to be extremely puzzling.

“I have never seen this show and am surprised at the amount of people who watch it,” says Sutter.   “It has taken these trashy people and given them instant celebrity status.   I believe they actually get paid around $30,000 per episode while there are many hard working people who aren’t even making that annually!  The show is also is a very bad role model for teenagers and young adults.   As for representing the town of Seaside, Heights, I haven’t been there in years but I am sure it is not an accurate description of what life is really like there.”

Howell resident and mother of two, Erin Pietsch, is outraged that a show of this nature has been so popular this past year.  She finds the show to be personally offensive and will never spend any time contributing to its success.

“I think it is a disgrace,” says Erin Pietsch.  “It gives the Jersey Shore a bad name.  I can’t stand that these kids are making all this money and getting all this attention by getting drunk and partying. Some of my friends think that I don’t have a sense of humor anymore, but so be it.  It’s absolutely gross and if I were their parents, I would be embarrassed.”

Since its inception, “Jersey Shore” has been a controversial show.  Some people find it to be despicable, but it seems like others just cannot turn themselves away as the popularity and the ratings continue to soar.  “Jersey Shore” just keeps getting bigger and bigger.  In August, the MTV hit had a steady 5.5 million viewers, and its adult demo rating rose to unprecedented new heights.   MTV has also exported the series to dozens of countries worldwide.  In addition to actually watching the show, MTV has created ways for fans of “Jersey Shore” to become involved and stay connected, too.  Through MTV’s website, fans can order the ‘Jersey Shore” soundtrack, buy songs on iTunes, read blogs from the cast members, and purchase merchandise.  There’s even a game named after one of the show’s most popular phrases “GTL” which stands for “Gym-Tan-Laundry.”  Fans can grab their hair gel and play “Jersey Shore Yourself GTL” on mtv.com.

Whether you love it or hate it, it seems the reality television series “Jersey Shore” and all of its hair products, fist pumping, and foul language is here to stay for a little while.  With such great ratings and lots of publicity, MTV will certainly keep the show in its lineup for the future.

By Tricia Berwick

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.

Martial Arts schools have grown in numbers over the years.  They are in high demand for children, teenagers and adults.  Some choose a school on the recommendation of a neighbor or friend, it’s close to home or it is inexpensive.  The State of New Jersey mandates no regulation on operating or teaching martial arts.  Hence, the main reason there are so many schools to choose from in a small area.  There are many forms of Martial Arts being taught and the consumer needs to investigate when choosing a school for themselves or their children.  Before registering for martial arts instruction, be aware of what is being taught in the class and what is being said to young children when parents are not around.  It is imperative you know instructors have proper credentials and are knowledgeable in teaching Martial Arts.  Observing classes and instructors, getting recommendations, and interviewing owners is what will aid in the success of learning the appropriate use and correct techniques in martial arts.

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.

You know the saying, “I scream, you scream, we all scream for Ice Cream!”  Well, depending on what you order at The Music Man Singing Ice Cream Shoppe, in Lavallette, you may find yourself yelling, “I want some Hot Fudge baby this evening, and I need some Hot Fudge baby tonight!”  Take your family to The Music Man and enjoy some good old-fashioned ice cream with a twist!  The Music Man provides a friendly and warm atmosphere for the young and old, serving up vaudeville style performances and ice cream sundaes to your liking.

“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