We are gearing up for the 25th annual FitFest Celebration.

FitFest will celebrate 25 years of service to the community on Tues., Feb. 21, at the Brewton Area YMCA (downstairs on the old basketball court) from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Inquiries can be asked by calling 251-867-7760, office; or Vivian Layton at 251-867-YMCA (867-9622).

This program is sponsored by Alabama Cooperative Extension System- Escambia County Office, Brewton Area YMCA, D. W. M. McMillan Hospital, and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Give Coupons

Are you undecided on what to give that special “person” on Valentines or any special occasion?  Surprise your spouse, family or friends with service/activity coupons.  Everyone enjoys being given time and attention.  Give coupons for a romantic night out, a favorite meal or snack, a starlit walk, the movies, a foot or back massage, etc.
Use note cards or make copies and cut apart. Present coupons to your favorite people this month or anytime. Source: Women’s Day Magazine
Healthy Eating

Add a bit of dark chocolate to your favorite trail mix recipes! Trail mixes provide a healthy and convenient snack mix. When you make your own trail mix, you can control the ingredients for the most nutrition.

Here are some tips for making healthy trail mixes:

• Limit the serving size to about 1/4 cup to keep calories at a reasonable amount.

• Use unsalted versions of nuts.

• Choose cereals and crackers that are whole grain, and lower in sugar and salt.

• Limit the amount of added candy. Consider using “mini” versions of candy, such as mini chocolate chips, to distribute a smaller amount of candy throughout the mix.  Here’s a trail mix recipe to get you started.

TRAIL MIX WITH DARK CHOCOLATE

(Makes 16 servings; Serving size 1/4 cup)

1 cup almonds

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or dark chocolate M&M’s

1 cup dried fruit 1/2 cup dried cranberries

1 cup oatmeal squares

Measure ingredients and put in a large zip-close bag. Shake to mix. Portion into single-serving zip-close bags. Nutrition information per serving: 140 calories, 20g carbohydrate, 6g fat, 3g protein (Recipe adapted slightly from North Dakota State University Extension Service.)