ParentsKids
Navigating the Brewery Debate: Balancing Family-Friendly Spaces and Adult Relaxation
2024-11-16
Breweries have become a popular destination for families, offering a casual atmosphere and affordable food. However, a debate is brewing over whether children should be allowed inside these establishments, particularly after a certain time. As some breweries establish curfews and age restrictions, the discussion around striking the right balance between family-friendly spaces and adult-oriented environments continues to unfold.

Striking the Right Balance: Breweries Grapple with Age Policies

The Curfew Conundrum: Notch Brewing's Controversial Decision

Notch Brewing, with locations in Salem and Brighton, has recently announced a change to its "kids policy." The brewery will now expand its "21+ after 6 p.m." rule to seven days a week, rather than just on weekends. This decision has sparked a lively discussion on the internet, with some customers expressing their desire to bring their children wherever they go, while others appreciate the opportunity to enjoy a more adult-oriented atmosphere.

Balancing Act: Other Breweries' Approaches to Age Restrictions

Other breweries, such as Castle Island Brewing in South Boston, have implemented similar policies, requiring patrons to be 21 or older after a certain time in the evening. These policies aim to create a more adult-centric environment, allowing customers to relax and socialize without the presence of children.

Fostering Inclusivity: Dorchester Brewing Company's Open-Door Policy

In contrast, Dorchester Brewing Company has taken a different approach. The brewery used to have an age policy, but after receiving feedback from customers, they decided to remove the minimum age requirement. The general manager, Stephanie Berman, explained that the decision was made to foster a more inclusive environment, where families and adults could coexist harmoniously.

Navigating the Debate: Brewery Owners Grapple with Age Policies

The debate over age restrictions in breweries is a common challenge faced by many brewery owners. Berman acknowledges that some breweries have created an environment that feels more like a "Chuck E. Cheese," with a significant presence of children. However, she believes that as long as parents are mindful of their children's behavior, everyone can coexist in the same space.

Balancing Priorities: Satisfying Diverse Customer Preferences

The decision to implement age restrictions or maintain an open-door policy for families is a delicate balancing act for brewery owners. They must consider the preferences of both families and adults seeking a more relaxed, adult-oriented atmosphere. Striking the right balance is crucial in creating an environment that caters to the diverse needs and expectations of their customer base.

Navigating the Evolving Landscape: Breweries Adapt to Changing Dynamics

As the popularity of breweries continues to grow, the debate over age policies is likely to persist. Brewery owners must remain attuned to the evolving preferences of their customers and be willing to adapt their policies accordingly. By fostering open communication and understanding the diverse needs of their patrons, breweries can create welcoming spaces that accommodate both families and adults seeking a more mature atmosphere.
Elevate Your Wicked Style: Enchanting Collaborations and Magical Merchandise
2024-11-13
The world of Wicked has cast a spell on fashion and beauty enthusiasts, with a dazzling array of merchandise and collaborations that cater to every Ozian's taste. From chic handbags to glittering nail polishes, the road to Oz has never been more stylish. Whether you're a devoted Glinda or a passionate Elphaba, this guide will help you navigate the enchanting world of Wicked-inspired fashion and beauty, ensuring you look fabulous while embracing your inner witch.

Unlock the Magic of Wicked-Inspired Style

Elevate Your Bag Game with Rebecca Minkoff's Wicked Collaboration

Rebecca Minkoff's Wicked collection is a true testament to the power of fashion and storytelling. The designer has masterfully captured the essence of the beloved characters, Glinda and Elphaba, in a line of bags that seamlessly blend elegance and whimsy. With a subtle nod to the iconic characters, these bags allow you to showcase your Ozian allegiance in a sophisticated manner, making them the perfect accessory for any occasion. Whether you're a Glinda devotee or an Elphaba enthusiast, these bags will have you feeling like a true denizen of the Emerald City.

Step into the Ozdust Ballroom with Aldo's Wicked Collection

Aldo has once again proven its prowess in curating captivating collaborations, and their Wicked collection is no exception. Featuring a range of shoes, bags, and accessories, this collection transports you directly to the Ozdust Ballroom, where you can dance the night away in style. With prices starting at just $30, Aldo has made it easy for Ozians of all budgets to indulge in the magic of Wicked. From vibrant green pumps to chic pink clutches, this collection allows you to express your Ozian pride without breaking the bank.

Beis Brings the Wicked Whimsy to Your Travels

Shay Mitchell's Beis brand has truly outdone itself with its Wicked collection. Beyond the captivating social media campaign that showcases Mitchell "flying" on a broomstick, the collection itself is a delightful blend of functionality and fandom. Whether you choose to embrace your inner Glinda or Elphaba, the Beis Wicked collection offers a range of luggage options that will have you traveling in enchanting style. The best part? You don't have to pick a side – the collection's versatility allows you to mix and match the pink and green hues, creating a cohesive and visually striking set of luggage.

Aqua's Wicked Collection: Elevating the Witch's Wardrobe

For those Ozians who aspire to a more refined and elegant aesthetic, Aqua's exclusive Wicked collection at Bloomingdale's is a must-see. Designed for the girlies who dream of being fancy witches, this collection features a range of sophisticated pieces, from cocktail-ready capes to chic minidresses and cozy sweaters. While the price point may be a bit higher than some of the other collaborations, these fashion-forward items are worth the investment for those who want to channel their inner Glinda or Elphaba in a truly elevated manner.

OPI Brings the Wicked Nail Game to New Heights

Cynthia Erivo's flawless nail game throughout the Wicked promo tour has not gone unnoticed, and OPI has capitalized on this by launching a captivating Wicked-inspired nail collection. From vibrant green and pink polishes to glow-in-the-dark options, this collaboration allows you to take your nail art to the next level. Whether you prefer the classic lacquer or the convenience of press-on nails, OPI's Wicked collection has something for every Ozian, ensuring your digits are as enchanting as the characters themselves.

r.e.m. beauty: Glinda-Approved Glamour

It should come as no surprise that Ariana Grande's r.e.m. beauty brand has joined the Wicked merchandise frenzy. After all, if Glinda Upland of the Upper Uplands trusts the brand, then it's good enough for us! The r.e.m. beauty Wicked collection promises to deliver the same level of glamour and sophistication that the character is known for, allowing you to channel your inner Glinda with every swipe of the lipstick or flutter of the lashes.

Foster Grant's Wicked Sunglasses: Shading the Emerald City in Style

Foster Grant's Wicked sunglasses collection is the perfect accessory for any Ozian, whether you're a Glinda or an Elphaba. With a range of styles that capture the essence of the beloved characters, these shades are not only functional but also a stylish nod to the Wicked universe. From vibrant pink frames to sleek green lenses, these sunglasses allow you to shield your eyes from the Emerald City's dazzling lights while making a fashion statement that would impress even the Wizard himself.

Forever 21's Wicked Jerseys: Bringing the Fandom to the Streets

For those Ozians who want to wear their love for Wicked on their sleeve, literally, Forever 21's Wicked collection is a must-have. Featuring matching jerseys that evoke the same energy as the custom Louis Vuitton pieces worn by Grande and Erivo during the Super Bowl, these affordable options allow you to show your Ozian pride without breaking the bank. Whether you're cheering on Glinda or Elphaba, these jerseys are the perfect way to showcase your Wicked fandom in a stylish and accessible manner.
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Revving Up Denton's Vintage Car Passion: Pistons and Paint Celebrates 22 Years of Automotive Artistry
2024-11-16
Denton's annual Pistons and Paint car show has become a beloved tradition, drawing enthusiasts from across the state and beyond to revel in the sights, sounds, and camaraderie of vintage automotive culture. This year's 22nd edition of the event, hosted by the Chupacabras car club, showcased a diverse array of meticulously restored hot rods and "Kustom Kulture" cars, each with its own captivating story to tell.

Revving Up Denton's Vintage Car Passion: A Celebration of Automotive Artistry

A Showcase of Automotive Artistry

The North Texas Fairgrounds transformed into a veritable automotive wonderland, as car enthusiasts and owners from all corners of the state and beyond converged to share their prized possessions. From meticulously restored hot rods to one-of-a-kind "Kustom Kulture" creations, the breadth and quality of the vehicles on display left attendees in awe. "This is a really nice show," remarked Denton resident and long-time Pistons and Paint attendee Kim Howard. "The number of entries, the variety, and the quality – it's just pretty deep."The event's focus on pre-1972 American-made vehicles allowed for a captivating mix of vintage restoration projects and unrestored "project cars," each offering a unique perspective on the art of automotive customization. "You know, they have some that haven't been restored, which is interesting for people that come wanting to see a project, and then others that are in the [vintage restoration] business," Howard observed.

The Roots of Pistons and Paint

Pistons and Paint's origins can be traced back to the early 2000s, when a small group of car enthusiasts, known as the Chupacabras, came together to create a platform for showcasing their shared passion. "We started a car club that had like six guys in it," recalled founding member and event coordinator Bubba Turner. "There weren't that many car shows around back then that I can remember, but we just wanted to have some kind of show."The event's humble beginnings in a chrome body shop parking lot in Garland eventually led to a move to the North Texas Fairgrounds, where it has remained for the past two decades. "I live up here in Denton, not far from the fairgrounds, and a friend of mine had always talked about renting it out and putting a car show there, and so I just went and talked to him," Turner explained.

Embracing the "Kustom Kulture"

Pistons and Paint's focus on "Kustom Kulture" cars, which embrace the counter-culture aspects of hot rodding and car customization from the 1950s and 1960s, has become a defining feature of the event. "Kustom Kulture" cars, as described by Turner, are those that "embrace the counter-culture aspect of hot rodding and car customization of [the 1950's and 1960's]."This unique emphasis on the "Kustom Kulture" aesthetic has attracted a diverse array of car enthusiasts, each with their own personal connection to the vintage automotive scene. "In the 60s and 70s, cars are just ingrained into you," shared Audie Waterson, an Arkansas resident and owner of a Ford Custom 300 who made the trip to Denton for the event. "My uncles both had these cars, so I just [kept] going back to that time."

A Celebration of Music, Vendors, and Community

Pistons and Paint has evolved beyond a mere car show, becoming a vibrant celebration of the automotive community and its rich cultural heritage. In addition to the impressive array of vintage vehicles, the event features live musical performances, dozens of vendors, and a palpable sense of camaraderie among attendees."We always find something," said Denton resident and regular Pistons and Paint attendee Lee Anne Todd. "We go for the band, and then we love the cars, too. Denton has good music, you can always count on Denton for good music."For event coordinator Bubba Turner, maintaining a diverse and engaging musical lineup is a crucial aspect of Pistons and Paint. "I try to make it a little diverse and not the same. Not everybody sounds the exact same, and we've had a lot of different acts over the years, but I am actually kind of proud of all the music that we put out there because I think it's always been pretty solid."

Preserving the Vintage Car Passion

Underlying the spectacle of Pistons and Paint is a deep-rooted desire to preserve the vintage car hobby and inspire the next generation of enthusiasts. Many attendees, like Audie Waterson, are driven by a personal connection to the cars of their youth, and they are eager to share their passion with others."I really encourage young people to at least give it a thought," Waterson said. "Check it out, go to a show. There's something out there that will interest you, I'm sure. Don't let this die. Don't let the Boomers die, and then the cars all get scrapped. But I don't see it dying if [these events are] keeping crowds like this."For Bubba Turner and the Chupacabras, fostering this sense of community and passing the torch to the next generation is a driving force behind Pistons and Paint. "I really encourage young people to at least give it a thought," Waterson echoed. "Check it out, go to a show. There's something out there that will interest you, I'm sure. Don't let this die. Don't let the Boomers die, and then the cars all get scrapped. But I don't see it dying if [these events are] keeping crowds like this."
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