The Lesser Known Truths of the Lionfish

Yesterday I told you about the Sandals Foundation and the trip myself and the other Beaches Moms took to a local school while we were at the Social Media on the Sand conference in Negril, Jamaica. While I was on this incredible trip, my husband and daughter were taking part in a presentation by another arm of the Sandals Foundation that really shows how committed they are to supporting and protecting the communities they have businesses in. Below is my husband's descriptions of what they took part in.

The environmental wing of the Sandals Foundation deals with marine conservation, marine sanctuaries, in-school conservation programs, educational field trips, planting programs, climate change as well as invasive species which is what the fish pictured above is.  The fish is called a Lionfish.

The Lionfish originated in the Indian Ocean.They were brought to an aquarium in Florida in the 1990's until a hurricane swept through and the fish escaped into the Atlantic Ocean. They headed south towards warmer water and unfortunately ended up in the area around Negil. I say unfortunately because the Lionfish is a very aggressive fish that attacks other fish including grouper but also does damage to the coral reefs.

The spines that you can see on the top of the fish are like a flower when they are alive and are poisonous. One of the chefs at the presentation said that if a person were to get stung with one of the spines they would be seeing a doctor for two weeks.  There is not a way to catch these fish commercially, they have to be caught individually.  Fish pots can be used, however, the Lionfish eats everything in them so they are not able to catch too many at once.  They swim in waters about 20-30 feet deep, so they are not close to shore.  Bigger Lionfish can grow up to 4-5 pounds.  One way to try to eliminate the Lionfish and the damage they are doing to the local environment was to come up with a way to cook them which the Sandals Foundation has done. 

We got to see a cooking demonstration where the Lionfish were prepared two ways. The chef in front of us used the grill and made an Escabeche.  He started by grilling green pepper, red onion and carrots with vinaigrette, oil and garlic.  He then dipped the fish fillets in flour and grilled them adding cajun seasoning, pepper and salt.

After combining the vegetables with the fish, vinegar and more seasoning was added and it was cooked together for a few more minutes.  The aroma was amazing.

It was plated with a fried plantain on the side. I think the Lionfish without anything done to it while cooking would actually taste like a mild whitefish, but with all of the seasoning and vegetables, it tasted great. I am not a big fan of fish, however, I finished my whole plate and some of what my daughter didn't eat. The cajun spice and the sourness of the vinegar and vinaigrette and the vegetables made for a great dish. As I mentioned earlier, the fish was prepared two ways. The chef at the other station cooked it in a pan with a curry sauce. Luckily, we were able to try the Lionfish that way and it was equally delicious.

Without the continued efforts of Beaches Resorts to remove the Lionfish, the areas that we view as so beautiful would be changed forever through the destruction of the coral reefs and the possible elimination of other fish.

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Giving Thanks To the Sandals Foundation This Holiday Season

It is that time of the year when we all step back from our busy lives and take pause to reflect not only on the people in our lives but also all that we have.   Sure there are people we may wish we could spend more time with and items that we just can not live without but no matter we have learned to how get along with what we have and what we have not. 

(entrance of school yard)

On a recent trip to Beaches Resorts in Negril, Jamaica I took time to do just this by participating in the Sandals Foundations Reading Road Trip where I visited the Mount Airy School. 

Before I share my experience I want to point out a few things Sandals Foundation has been able to do since they began in March of 2009.

• Trained 1,013 teachers who have educated 54,809 students
• Outfitted 18 libraries with 144,495 books which were all donated
• Created 24 children's homes and infirmaries

On my Reading Road Trip I had the opportunity to meet a six year year old boy, who for privacy reason I will not be sharing his name. I was allowed to spend time one on one reading with him, doing several school handouts and also a small craft. 

During my limited time with him I learned that he wants to be a builder when he grows up and loves his time at school with his friends and teacher.  I was impressed with his outgoing personality and how much joy he has in his heart. 

(classroom of the older children)

Having an eight year old daughter who is in the public school system, I am surprised at both the similarities and differences in the classrooms.   I feel confident saying that the worksheets we did together are the same as the ones my daughter brought home in the first grade.   Thanks to Scholastic they are reading many of the same books as our daughter and the supplies from School Specialty help with most of their daily needs but I realized that it can only go so far which is why Beaches invites all their guests to Pack for a Purpose and bring 5 pounds of supplies to donate to local school.  They can be taken to the school on a booked reading trip or left with a staff member who will deliver them on your behalf.

(school cafeteria)

After spending a morning with the children of Mount Airy I realize that unlike us these communities are lacking the industry to support the school and their needs.   Supplies must be brought in and without help from companies such as School Specialty and Scholastic who have made these children a priority in their giving these children and their teachers would go without.

This is why I want to take a moment and thank the Sandals Foundation for all the work they do to ensure the families in their communities get not on the supplies needed so that no child goes without an education or adult the training needed to help these children become the best the can be.   I am proud to say that our family supports the foundation and I hope one day soon to be able to take our daughter back to a Beaches Resort and spend some time not only in the schools but perhaps their other facilities which focus on medical and environmental needs.


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Paying it Forward with the Sandals Foundation at the 3rd Annual Social Media on the Sand #BeachesMoms

In a few short weeks my family and I will be making out third visit to the Caribbean for Beaches Resorts 3rd Annual Social Media on the Sand event.  Unlike the first two conferences which where held in Turks and Caicos, this year we are heading to Negril Jamaica.  While we are looking forward to a little family fun in the sun, this year like the those in the past, we are planning on taking a pause to acknowledge those who live on the islands and to see how we can help better their communities and the way we are doing so is by teaming up with the Sanadals Foundation a non-profit with a mission of improving the Caribbean through projects that focus on the community, the environment and education.

Before I share our plans for this year I want to point out a few things Sandals Foundation has been able to do since they began in March of 2009.

• Trained 1,013 teachers who have educated 54,809 students
• Outfitted 18 libraries with 144,495 books which were all dontated
• Helped 119,090 people receive dental and eye care
• Created 24 children's homes and infirmaies
• Planted 10,125 trees
• Spayed/neutered 4,812 dogs and cats
• Trained 19,157 people in Marine Awareness 
• Collected 12,874 of garbage
• Opened 2 fully operational Marine Sanctuaries 

This year our family will be Packing for a Purpose when we load up this bookbag with supplies that the children and teachers can use in their classrooms.   While we have some supplies on hand I am also going to take a few minutes and look at the deals offered by School Specialty who has partnered with Beaches to bring some pretty amazing deals to not only our family but everyone.   Now through October 3rd we can all get a discount on supplies for our homes and local classrooms when we use the code 081BEACHES at checkout. 

We are looking forward to sharing our visit to Beaches with you.  If you do not already follow me on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram make sure you do now so you don't miss out on anything.

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Hannah's Maze of Mirrors - Pigeon Forge

Are you the chosen one?  The one to help free Hannah from the spell put on her by a witch that traps her in a maze of mirrors so she can only see herself for all eternity.  At this exact moment she has been locked in the maze for 7 years and 7 days and you have only 7 hours to help her escape.

To start your search you enter a motion tunnel that leads you to a musical staircase that lights up with each step you take.  Our daughter loved this part so much that she ran up and down them trying to out chase the lights and notes.

Once inside the maze you are faced with over 280 possible mirrors and wrong turns, along the way you will find help from the King and maybe even the witch or Hannah herself.   The twists and turns are one thing, but add a few changing light color and patterns and that adds another element that will have you wondering just which way to turn next.   This maze of mirrors is one that will leave you with your hands out in front of your body since you never know which turn is going to put you on the right path or right smack into a mirror.

Just before you find Hannah, which I feel confident you will, you will have a chance to dance in a mirrored room with fireworks and music.  This a a great chance to have a little fun showing off your moves.

Hannah's Maze of Mirrors is part of the Hollywood Wax Museum, Outbreak and the Castle of Chaos.   Tickets can be purchased separately or together for extra savings.  

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Splash Country - Pigeoon Forge

 It is summer and that means you need to cool down and have some fun on your family vacation.  Awarded one of America's top ten water parks, Splash Country, part of Dollywood, is a must for the entire family.

With more than 25 water slides all of varying heights, twists and turns, a massive wave pool, two children's areas, the longest lazy river I have ever seen and River Rush the only water coaster in Tennessee, the entire family will enjoy this stop.

What you want to know about Splash Country:
They provide life jackets in all sizes free of charge
The H2O pass will save you hours waiting in line.
Canopies & Cabanas are available for rent
Water is free at all concession stands, you just have to ask
Be sure to bring your own sunscreen and towels

Do you notice all the beautiful landscaping in the photos?  Splash Country is literally surrounded by the Smokies.   The park is spotless, well spaced out and the staff enthusiastic.   The music played throughout the park is upbeat and classics the whole family will know and sing along to.

We had our meals in the park and I would suggest eating at off times, the lines were a little long so we took that time to hit the slides and avoid the crowds.  Both Mike and I commented that the food at both Dollywood and Splash Country is reasonably priced when compared to other parks.

Splash Country does offer ticket options with Dollywood and just like Dollywood, if you arrive after three the next day is free. 

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Pirate Golf - Pigeon Forge

I decided a while ago that I prefer indoor mini golf to outdoor.  You do not have to worry about the weather or time of day when you play.   Pirate Golf, inside Magiquest offers an 18 hole course with a Caribbean Theme.

 This 18 hole course is flawlessly maintained.  The vibrant colors are brought to life with black lights and if you are dressed just right you may even glow along with your golf ball.

The holes on this course vary in difficulty.  Kids will love the hole they play on the ship.  Throughout the course you will hear Pirate themed music, which changes with the holes.

 The interactive screens along the way will either ask you for help or provide you with a clue, all in the hopes that you find the missing key.

Our family enjoyed playing this course, especially at the end when when my husband got a hole in one and the Pirate began singing.

Pirate Golf can be played alone or as part of a ticket package which includes the Magiquest, The Vault and The Odyssey Mirror Maze.

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WonderWorks - Pigeon Forge

 

Our last stop in Pigeon Forge was to WonderWorks, a hands on attraction that brings together both science and entertainment in a way that is fun for the entire family.  This upside down laboratory is hands down a hidden treasure that consists of three levels of adventure.

BUT FIRST...if you remember nothing else, remember this!
 Before any fun can begin I need point out that closed toe shoes are a must for this stop.  

With over 100 interactive exhibits such as:

XD Motion Theater
Laser Tag (not included with admission)
Bed of Nails
Flight Simulator
Mind Ball
Rock Wall

Pulley Power
Big Piano
Big Lite Brite
The Art of Dr. Seuss
Glow-in-the-dark Ropes Course
NASA Challenge
Bubble Lab
360 Bikes
Inversion Tunnel
Hurricane Shack

It is easy to spend hours at WonderWorks, in fact our three hour visit seemed too short.

Not being the adventurous type I left the rock wall climbing to my husband and daughter, and I am proud to say while it took a few tries they both successfully make it to the top.   What set this wall apart is that there are three sides to the wall and the skill level varies on each.

While each exhibit is interactive the NASA area is one that everyone in the group will want to take part in.  It is also here that you will find the glow-in-the-dark ropes course, for me this was my window to explore the area while she spent time on the ropes course.

 The Bed of Nails is a must, in fact this is the first time I have ever seen an exhibit to this extreme that allows anyone of any age to try.  It begins with the nails down and once you are completely flat they begin to raise.  The key is in staying still and allowing your weight to be evenly dispersed.   You will feel the pressure of the nails, but I assure you it is not painful.

At the end of your tour you will exit in the arcade which has a snack stand and laser tag.   This is the only area that is not included with your admission but all games are reasonable in price.

A few things I want to point out about WonderWorks, your admission is good all day so feel free to stay as long as you would like, you can even leave and come back. Make sure you plan for at least 4 hours, three felt rushed. Coupons can be found on the brochures, which most hotels have to offer.

I feel confident that your entire family will enjoy WonderWorks, especially if you don't forget your closed toed shoes.

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The Vault Laser Challenge-Pigeon Forge, TN

On the ground floor of the MagiQuest building is The Vault Laser Challenge. It is a room full of laser beams that the player has to do their best to avoid by twisting, bending and crawling. 

As you can see there are a lot of beams that have to be dealt with. The goal is to get through the course as fast as possible, but every time a beam is broken by the player, extra time is added to their total time.  My husband said he thought he was doing a good job at first, but as the course went on, he could not avoid several of the beams and a lot of extra time was added on. Our daughter had a much better time with much fewer penalties. Because of her size, she was able to navigate around the beams much easier and by taking her time she was able to make it through some of the tightest spots.

The television monitor above the door is a great touch. This way, players waiting for their turn or family and friends of those going through the course can watch their progress and see how well or not so well they are doing.

You can purchase a ticket for just The Vault, however, they also offer a great deal a combo ticket which includes The Vault as well as Pirate Golf, Odyssey Mirror Maze and MagiQuest.

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Outbreak-Pigeon Forge

 

A few days ago I told you about the Hollywood Wax Museum.  Just across the parking lot is another building that houses a few more attractions and one of them is called Outbreak Dread the Undead.

The description of Outbreak is:

This thrill-a- minute haunted walk-through experience is filled with hordes of the undead. Inside the laboratory of ChemaCorp, a global leader in biotechnology, medical research, and defense contracting, you’ll come face-to- face with a military experiment gone terribly wrong. The company’s viral compound, Alpha Strain, which was designed to enhance soldier DNA, has turned test subjects and the entire research staff into aggressive zombies that must be stopped. Your mission? Contain the outbreak and make it out alive… and SCREAMING!

My daughter and I were concerned that this might be too intense of an experience for us, so we had my husband go through without us. Unfortunately, he was not allowed to take pictures.  He ended up being part of a group of 5 people to walk through the lab.  What he told me was that Outbreak lasted longer than he thought it would which he was happy with. There were a lot of different rooms and hallways that you have to walk through depicting different scenes of a zombie outbreak in a lab.  There is a combination of animatronic zombies as well as live actors who do their best to scare the visitors.  He said what made this more enjoyable and in some cases laugh out loud funny was that in his group there was a young lady who was easily scared and was screaming and yelling quite a bit. It became apparent quickly that the live zombie actors realized this and did their best to scare her even more.

When he finished he let me know that he thought it was a good idea that my daughter and I sat this one out, but that younger kids who are not scared easily would be able to handle Outbreak. Keep in mind that the actors can't touch you and you can't touch anything. There is some blood and body parts and some dark hallways but as long as you keep your eyes out around corners and possible hiding places, you will be able to survive the Outbreak.

You can purchase tickets to just Outbreak or the best deal is to get an All Access Pass which gets you entry to the Hollywood Wax Museum, Outbreak, Castle of Chaos and Hannah's Maze of Mirrors.    

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