Generation Next

Junior League Leads the Way to Helping Kids

{mosimage}For 27 years, the Junior League of the Emerald Coast has offered a helping hand to thousands of local children who lacked adequate clothing or supplies for the new school year.

Through “Child Clothing,” the organization’s signature community project, more than 300 Okaloosa and Walton county elementary-school children will be helped this year on Tuesday, Oct. 17, and Wednesday, Oct. 18.

The students, who are selected by their teachers and guidance counselors, will be paired with a volunteer personal shopper. Each child will receive one-on-one assistance in selecting a new wardrobe, consisting of a jacket or fleece, shirts, pants, socks, underwear, and shoes from Target in Mary Esther. After shopping, students will be treated to lunch and free time, which consists of various structured games and activities. The students will also receive a small gift bag of donated items.

Since 1979, the Junior League has provided clothing and a boost to the self-esteem of more than 4,000 children. If you are interested in volunteering a little time to make a difference in a child’s life through the “Child Clothing” project, or in making a donation, please call the Junior League of the Emerald Coast at (850) 862-2665

Destin’s Classroom Connection

{mosimage}The school year is underway, and Destin’s “Adopt-A-Classroom” program is taking roll call for potential community partners. The program gives much-needed funds to teachers for additional supplies and special projects through a $325 contribution from “Adopt-A-Classroom” partners. Participants also are encouraged to donate time and talents to their adopted class.

The funds collected for the program will not be distributed until all 95 of  Destin’s classrooms have been adopted, so the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce is encouraging local businesses to consider this worthwhile program. For more information on the “Adopt-A-Classroom” program, please call the Destin Chamber at (850) 833-4360.

Frighteningly Fun

{mosimage}If your teen enjoys a good scream, head to Universal Orlando this fall for some Halloween fun. The popular theme park is celebrating its 16th anniversary with the return of Halloween Horror Nights.

For 19 select nights, Halloween Horror Nights will feature seven classic haunted houses with frightening new elements, new shows – including a Halloween version of “Universal 360” and a new version of the popular “Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure” stage show.

Halloween Horror Nights begin Sept. 29-30 and continue through Oct. 6-8, Oct. 11-15, Oct. 19-22, Oct. 26-29 and Oct. 31. For more information on this “spooktacular” event, visit halloweenhorrornights.com/orlando or universalorlando.com .

Study by the Book

{mosimage}Students can move to the head of the class by taking a few tips from Club Z, a Florida-based tutoring program that focuses on improving children’s educational experience.For success in the classroom, Club Z recommends several simple steps, including the following:

• Choose an appropriate study location, with good lighting and space for books.

• Keep a calendar and post important test and project dates.

• Tell kids to take a break when feeling frustrated. Just like work, sometimes a few minutes away can make all the difference.

For more information on improving study skills or Club Z’s services, visit clubztutoring.com .