Gulf Coast Family - October 2017

10 CELEB

R AT I N

YE A

October 2017

RS

Vol. 10 Issue 10

Fa m ily Fall Fun! 0 Steps 1 To Becoming a Mentor Leader  p. 8

G

How to Help a Friend Through Breast Cancer p. 20

Q&A With Jim Daly p. 36

p. 2 4

n a i t s i r h C o d y Wh ? k c i w s e K moms Love They love Keswick for its proven record for Christ-centered, high-quality education.

It’s a learning environment where virtue and vision matter. Where the timeless truths of scripture and timely instructional resources combine to help children grow, flourish and prosper.

Kids grow in their love for the Lord and knowledge of the world around them at Keswick. Christian moms love the sound of that.

Partnering with the local church since 1953

Financial Aid Available

Learn more: www.KeswickChristian.org 10101 54th Avenue North | St. Petersburg, Florida 33708 Infants – 12th grade | Call for a personal tour: 727.393.9100

2 • October 2017

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

A Home for Christian families www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Publisher: Editor: Contributing Editor: Designer: Web Developer:

Rodney Beck Jennifer Beck Linda Crumley Michael Crumley Matthew Crumley

For advertising opportunities: sales@gulfcoastfamily.org

“I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.”

– Anne of Green Gables

© Gulf Coast Family Publications 2017

Gulf Coast Family Publications P.O. Box 3803, Seminole, FL 33775 Phone: (727) 612-0783 Fax: (727) 865-5135 Gulf Coast Family Newspaper is printed monthly, and is distributed throughout Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties. Gulf Coast Family is available in distribution racks in many local Chick-fil-a restaurants, McDonald’s, CVS Stores, R-Clubs, Walgreens, Joto’s Pizzerias, Carmelita’s, After Hours Pediatrics, Cornerstone Banks, LA Fitness, Shapes, and Regions Banks in these counties, along with many other restaurants, shopping centers, churches, libraries, government offices, and over 200 day care centers and schools. For questions or comments, call (727) 612-0783 or email rbeck@gulfcoastfamily.org.

Gulf Coast Family Publications encourages your input. To comment on one of our articles or to submit photos and articles for possible publication, simply email articles@gulfcoastfamily.org. Submission of your photos and letters constitutes permission to Gulf Coast Family Publications, publisher of the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper, to use them in all media. All submissions become the property of Gulf Coast Family Publications and will not be returned. We reserve the right to edit as necessary, and all submissions will be used at our discretion.

Phothteo of Month

Samantha

No portion of the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper may be reproduced without the express written consent of the publishers. The opinions of contributing writers are not necessarily those of the publishers. Gulf Coast Family Publications assumes no liability for products, services, or statements made by advertisers. Neither Gulf Coast Family Publications nor the advertisers can be held liable for typographical errors, misprints, or misinformation contained herein. The publishers reserve the right to edit and refuse editorial and/or advertising which does not meet the publication’s standards. All rights are reserved.

Look for Gulf Coast Family in these locations:

Saturday October 14th 8:00am Tampa Bay Downs #FallStampede5k

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

October 2017 • 3

October 2017

22

24 Family Fall Fun

Adoption in the Empty-Nest Years

5 Movie Night October We 6 This Recommend That You…

Pro Dad: 13 Great Fall 16 All Date Night Ideas

Things I Wish I’d Known 22 7Before Adopting

Spotlight: Tiger Cubs 34 Species ad Disney’s Animal Kingdom

7 Parent to Parent

Things to Do On a 17 10 Fall Picnic

Diaries: 10 Steps to 8 Dungy Becoming a Mentor Leader

and Fall Gardens 18 Pets

by Tammy Vasquez

23 Heart Gallery 24 Family Fall Fun Football Injuries 28 Evaluating

by Ted A. Kaplan, MD

35 Exploring the Universe Quiz on the Family 36 Focus

by Jim Daly

Tropical Garden 19 The

by Jené VanButsel

to a Better Smile 29 7bySteps Dr. Nick Reynolds

10 Reader Photos of the Month

to Help a Friend 20 How Through Breast Cancer

12 Family Night Out Coupons 14 Kids in the Kitchen

in the Empty-Nest 22 Adoption Years

30 Spotlight on Education Kickboxing: An 32 Cardio Intensely FUN Class

by AllProDad.com

by iMom.com

by Jennifer Beck

by Tony Dungy, AllProDad.com

Great to Create: 9 It’s Halloween Crafts

by Janet Thompson

“A true friend is the greatest of all blessings.”

10

Reader Photos of the Month

4 • October 2017

by Matt Kaufman

by Paul J. Batura

by Ana Frias

33 After School Guide

by Disney’s Animal Kingdom

for Your Family 39 Fight

by Kenny McNatt Internet: 2017’s Newest 40 The Brain?

by Kristin Smith, PluggedIn.com

Made Sweet 41 Savings

by Heather Brickell

42 October 2017 Events 46 Weekender

Lila Grace and Caty Jewel Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Plugged In’s award-winning website and reviews are designed to shine a light on the world of popular entertainment while giving families the essential tools they need to understand, navigate and impact the culture in which they live.

See full reviews at www.pluggedin.com

The Stray – October 6

The Stray tells the true story of how a stray dog, “Pluto,” comes out of nowhere and impacts the Davis family, who are struggling in many ways. In just a short time, Pluto manages to save a toddler, bring comfort and companionship to a hurting 9-year-old boy, help restore a marriage, and repair a broken father-son relationship.

Earth: One Amazing Day – October 6

NOVEMBER 11, 2017 — APRIL 1, 2018

MFASTPETE.ORG Star Wars and the Power of Costume was developed by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service in partnership with the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art and in consultation with Lucasfilm Ltd. © & ™ 2017 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. Used under authorization. ™

The Denver Art Museum provided additional scholarship and creative modifications to the presentation.

MFA leadership support provided by Mark and Marianne Mahaffey, The Bill Edwards Group, and Jeff and Penny Vinik.

From BBC Earth Films comes Earth: One Amazing Day, an astonishing journey revealing the awesome power of the natural world. Told with humor, intimacy and a jaw-dropping sense of cinematic splendor, Earth: One Amazing Day highlights how every day is filled with more wonders than you can possibly imagine- until now.

Only the Brave – October 20

A drama based on the elite crew of firefighters from Prescott, Arizona who battled a wildfire in Yarnell, AZ in June 2013 that claimed the lives of 19 of their members.

Blu-Ray/DVDs

Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture; The Margaret Acheson Stuart Society; and the City of St. Petersburg Office of Cultural Affairs.

Media support provided by Tampa Bay Times.

Smithsonian Institution www.gulfcoastfamily.org

October 3 To advertise, call 727-612-0783

October 17

October 24

October 2017 • 5

This October we recommend that you…

READ IT

Anxious for Nothing: Finding Calm in a Chaotic World by Max Lucado When it comes to anxiety, depression, and stress-related illnesses, America is the frontrunner. Thankfully, there’s a practical prescription for dealing with these issues. Anxious for Nothing, the most recent book from New York Times bestselling author, Max Lucado, provides a roadmap for battling with and healing from anxiety. Join Max on the journey to true freedom and experience more joy, clarity, physical renewal, and contentment by the power. Anxiety comes with life. But it doesn’t have to dominate your life.

EXPERIENCE IT

Sesame Street Kid’s Weekends Busch Gardens Tampa

HEAR IT

All In by Matthew West For his latest album, CCM favorite Matthew West spent time in solitude, writing and recording his new material. All In showcases Matt’s knack for storytelling and in-demand songwriter’s voice on a collection of brand new songs, including the inspiring lead single “Broken Things.”

SEE IT

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay welcomes back Sesame Street Kids’ Weekends this October, with an extended four weeks of Halloween fun each Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Beloved Sesame Street characters, Abby Cadabby, Big Bird, Elmo, Grover, Rosita, and other popular faces will make appearances and will be dressed in their own special Halloween costumes!

Each fun-filled weekend will feature trick-or-treating and fall festival activities including a hay bale maze, dance parties, games and character parades throughout the day as well as very special surprises for each weekend. For more information visit www.buschgardens.com.

SURF IT

Tampa Bay Lightning Opening Day October 6

www.instructables.com/halloween

To say that fans are excited for the Tampa Bay Lightning’s new season to begin would be an understatement.

After the way last season ended, fans can’t wait to get back to Amalie Arena for the 2016-2017 season.

On October 13th, the Lightning will take to the ice ready to make another Stanley Cup run with a core of young stars and with very high expectations.

This October, come and be a part of the Thunder! For ticket information visit www.nhl.com/lightning.

It’s time for All Day Breakfast

If you are looking for some amazing ideas for Halloween, Instructables.com is Halloween Central for this October! They’ve got everything you need to scare yourself happy, with instructables for instagrammable costumes, terrifying edibles, and ghostly decorations worthy of the Aldridge Mansion itself.

While you’re at it, enter your own Halloween handiwork into one of this year’s four contests— Costumes, Props, Food, and Decor. You could win a boat load of some amazing prizes!

2909 Highway 19 Holiday, FL 34691 (727) 934-7035

33817 Highway 19 Palm Harbor, FL 34684 (727) 781-7303

7901 Ulmerton Rd Largo, FL 33771 (727) 531-4841

©2016 McDonald’s

6 • October 2017

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

but he hasn’t, and he still doesn’t believe me when I tell him that getting to the eye of even a “small” hurricane is not worth it!

Parent to Parent Since we live in flood zone A, and since I have no intention of ever messing with a category 4 or 5 hurricane, we decided to head up to visit our friends in Pensacola when Hurricane Irma came through last month.

All four of my children were happy to be missing several days of school, but beyond that, their reactions covered a broad spectrum.

David was sure that evacuating was a total waste of time, and more importantly perhaps a missed opportunity to see something as “majestic” as the eye of the hurricane. Now I’ve been in the eye of a category 1 hurricane,

Daniel and Hanna were both pretty practical. Daniel’s main concern was that wherever we went, the dogs had to be able to stay with us - he didn’t want them in a kennel. And Hanna put a few of her “treasures” up on high shelves in her room, but didn’t get overly stressed out.

Then there was Haylee. To say she was terrified is certainly an understatement. At ten years old, she understands the danger of a hurricane, but she doesn’t quite understand the statistical unlikelihood of any specific, reasonably well-built house being destroyed.

She was ready to pack up her entire bedroom and high-tail it out of town. Just like Woody, she had a “no toy gets left behind” philosophy. When we told her she could have space for one bag to bring some of her favorites, she found the biggest bag she could and jammed it full of stuffed animals and dolls. Then she stuffed a few more around herself in the seat of the car!

Haylee has a spiral notebook that she uses like a scrapbook, and on Saturday, she asked me to draw a map of Florida for

her. She then proceeded to start filling in all kinds of details from the weather forecasts she was watching: where the storm was at that time, the current wind speeds, where our house is, where we were staying, etc. And she continued to update it every few hours until the storm was past the Tampa Bay Area.

It was adorable and heartbreaking all at the same time. As an adult, it’s easy to brush off how stressful situations like that can be for kids. I’ve lived through a moderate number of disasters and potential disasters, including several hurricanes when we lived in Pensacola. So, I know from experience that while we may encounter a little bit (or even a lot) of discomfort, we will get through them. But she doesn’t have that perspective yet.

Thankfully, even though we spent almost a week without electricity and our roof does have some damage, Haylee’s toys escaped the storm unscathed. That should hopefully help her not to be quite so nervous the next time around!

Until next time,

Jennifer

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To advertise, call 727-612-0783

October 2017 • 7

DUNGY DIARIES

1. Evaluate your focus

6. Evaluate your vision

2. Evaluate your influence

7. Evaluate your personal and organizational mission

Is it centered on benefiting others? Is it centered on benefiting others?

10 STEPS TO BECOMING A

Are you focused on developing your “coaching tree” – building leaders who build leaders, generation after generation?

MENTOR LEADER

3. Evaluate your audience

by Tony Dungy

Are you able to preserve a long-term focus on growing others while at times appropriately exercising more direct control and involvement?

AllProDad.com

Every year when I was a coach, I would challenge the players to remember that our goal was to be the best team we could be, and that eventually we would need contributions from everyone. We saw the fruit of mentor leadership when we got to the Super Bowl. Nick Harper, our veteran defensive back, got hurt and couldn’t finish a game. Young Kelvin Hayden went in for him and made the game-winning interception. Kelvin was prepared for that moment in part because Nick had spent time with him and helped him to be ready. That’s the kind of chemistry great teams have.

It’s not about me.

It’s not about you.

It’s about others.

4. Look ahead

The single most important factor that differentiates mentor leaders from other leaders in any setting is their outward focus on others. Because mentor leaders are committed to building value into the lives of other people, it seems natural that they would want to cast their influence as widely as possible by creating a culture of mentoring. Here are 10 factors that go into creating a culture of mentor leaders.

Know your vision, mission, and values, but remember that life is about the journey, too.

5. Focus on the present

What can you do today to build into the lives of the people around you? Don’t miss the now. Remember, tomorrow may never come.

What do you hope the future will look like as you proceed?

Does it clearly tell you and the world what you’re about, why you’re here, and why you have chosen these goals?

8. Evaluate your values

Are your “rules of behavior” consistent with your principles? Does your “rudder” steer you in a good direction for how you will behave and treat others?

9. Evaluate your approach with your family, team, business, friends, and others Mentoring is a lifestyle.

10. Remember that mentor leadership is all about serving

Jesus said, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45).

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FREE TRIAL CLASS 8 • October 2017

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Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

t It’s Grea ! e t a e r C to

Halloween!

Are you looking for some fun Halloween Craft Ideas for the kids? If so here are some simple and fun crafts which we think are just spookalicious! These craft ideas are quite simple and would be a great addition to your Halloween party

Spooky Spider Lollipops Have fun making these cute critters with just pipe cleaners, lollipops and googly eyes! These cute little spiders make great decorations as well as delicious treats.

Items needed: • 1 lollipop • 4 short lengths of pipe cleaner • Googly eyes - ones with adhesive on back Directions: 1. Wrap a pipe cleaner around the lollipop stick.

Bend each end slightly to make the spider’s legs.

2. Repeat three more times so that the spider has eight legs, four on each side.

3. Stick the googly eyes over the area where the legs meet.

4. Repeat with more lollipops to make spooky spiders for all your guests.

Halloween Stress Balls Items needed:

• Orange Balloons • Funnel • Black Magic Marker • Filler Ingredients: Flour, Corn Starch, Baking Soda, Play Dough, Corn Kernels, or Dried Beans. There are many possibilities.

Directions:

1. Blow up a balloon and hold it for 30 seconds. This will help pre-stretch the balloon before you fill it.

2. Fill the balloon. Use a funnel for fine ingredients like flour. For materials like play dough or corn kernels, an extra set of hands to stretch the balloon works best.

3. Tie off the balloon and then use permanent marker to draw faces.

4. Have fun with your new toy! These stress balls are the perfect squeeze. www.gulfcoastfamily.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

October 2017 • 9

Reader

PH TOs

Send us Your Best Photos

YOUR KIDS COULD BE IN GULF COAST FAMILY!

Send your funny parenting stories to articles@gulfcoastfamily.org.

Or email photos of your kiddos having fun at home, school, or anywhere in-between to myphotos@gulfcoastfamily.org. * Please send high resolution photos if possible.

{of the month}

SaraRose, Colin & Emily “I put the costume on and said, ‘I’ts not very comfortable, but it looks amazing,’ so it’s all good!”

Leah

y look for it!

Children see magic because the

10 • October 2017

Penelope A balanced diet is an Oreo cookie in each hand!

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

Malachi I’ve never met a pumpkin I didn’t like.

Mitchell There is no foot too small that it cannot leave an imprint in this world!

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

FRESH FOOD FAST Dine-In or Drive-Thru Catering

eatPDQ.com

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To advertise, call 727-612-0783

Valid at Pinellas Park and St. Petersburg PDQ only. Expires 11/30/2017.

October 2017 • 11

Your Neighborhood Favorite Since 1974…

VALID FOR DINE-IN, TAKE-OUT & DELIVERY

We all know that eating out often can add up! So, it’s important to know where the best deals are for the family. Here are some great places in the Tampa Bay area that are family friendly and are offering some great specials.

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(727)

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12 • October 2017

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

{ SMOKIN’ OFFER} HERE’S ONE FOR YOU!

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Every night, 4pm – 10pm with purchase of adult entrée

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www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Visit www.chickensaladchick.com to learn more!

Limit one per person. Must present ad when ordering.

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

October 2017 • 13

in the kitchen

Creepy, maybe, but these Halloween recipes were a real treat for the entire family. The marshmallow spiders were a big hit with the kids, while the spider web bean dip snagged the adults with its tastiness. Both of these recipes were quite simple for the kids to make and both are sure to put a smile on the face of every goblin in your house this Halloween.

Spiderweb Dip • 1 28-ounce can refried beans • ½ tablespoon chili powder • 1 cup shredded cheddar-jack cheese • 1 tablespoon fresh or ½ • 2 tablespoons lime juice • 1 cup prepared guacamole teaspoon dried cilantro • 1 ½ cup salsa • ½ cup sour cream 1. Combine beans, cilantro, chili powder, and lime juice in a large mixing bowl. Mix well.

2. Place bean mixture onto a serving plate and spread into a 10-inch circle.

3. Drain excess juice from salsa and spread over bean layer. Sprinkle cheese over salsa.

4. Carefully spread guacamole over cheese.

5. Place sour cream into a Ziploc bag, cut one corner off the bag, and pipe a spiderweb design over the guacamole.

6. Chill about one hour before serving. Serve with tortilla chips.

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CHEER HARD.

14 • October 2017

EAT WELL.

727-545-3057 Catering and Take Out available Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

Offering homestyle meals made from quality ingredients for more than 27 years.

Breakfast served all day Located on Starkey and Bryan Dairy in the Bardmoor shopping center next to Publix.

10801 Starkey Rd. (727) 397-9251

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Happy. Secure.

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Chocolate Spiders • 1 ¼ cup semisweet chocolate chips • 2 cups miniature marshmallows

• 48 thin pretzel sticks • 24 miniature M&M candies

1. Place chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on 50% power for 2 to 4 minutes, stirring after each minute, until melted. Allow to cool for 3 to 5 minutes.

2. Stir marshmallows into melted chocolate. Mix until all marshmallows are coated.

3. Drop the mixture by tablespoonfuls onto a waxed paper-lined baking sheet.

Lutz

Riverview Pinellas Park Palm Harbor

813 909-9442 813 677-7777 727 541-5716 727 781-2986

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4. Break pretzel sticks in half and press into the sides of each mound for legs. Add 2 M&M candies to each mound for eyes.

5. Refrigerate for 30 minutes, until firm.

Cool Kids Cook N U F N U e F h t e e N h U F ee ttt h her r N e e W U h F W e r h e ds! n ss!!

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October 2017 • 15

Summer is over and Fall is here. Soon the holidays will be on us. Sometimes the holidays and winter season are viewed as a romantic season when you can you stay warm inside while it’s cold outside. But don’t forget about the Fall season. Show your wife you are creative, fun, and even romantic now. This season gives you some unique opportunities to create great memories with your wife. Here are 13 great fall date night ideas. One for every Friday this season!

1 A football game: Take your wife to a football game without the kids.

High school, college, or NFL. It doesn’t matter. But when you go, focus on her and creating conversation.

She may not understand the game, or care too much about the results, but you can have fun people watching, drinking a warm drink, and chatting it up.

2 Pumpkin picking and carving: This may be something you think of doing with the kids. Instead, just you and your wife go alone. Drive to the country or wherever a pumpkin patch

13 Great Fall Date Night Ideas is in your area. Get out, grab hands, walk, talk, and choose a pumpkin together.

3 Haunted house: No explanation necessary. Be ready to be squeezed tight. Just don’t be the guy who plays the scary practical jokes. Be her protector and comforter, even though you know it isn’t real.

4 State Fair: Another typical event to go to with your kids. Do that in the daytime and take your wife out in the evening. Walk hand in hand, talk, eat elephant ears, corn on the cob, a funnel cake, and enjoy the rides and each other.

colors. A corn maze will bring out the competitive side in you as you are faced with the challenge of finding your way out.

7 Apple picking: Find an apple orchard, take a tour, and pick some delicious apples. Afterwards, bring them home and make some type of apple desert, drink, or snack from your fresh picked apples.

8 Go hiking: Get some hardcore exercise. Go to a state park and begin your journey. Bring a camera to take pictures of all you see.

5 Hayride: Get some warm cider or hot chocolate and enjoy a nice scenic hayride. Remember to bring a blanket to sit on and cuddle.

9 Visit a local winery: Many wineries will have tastings and tours. If wine is your thing, or your wife’s, then this is a must. Take the tour, taste some great wine, eat some appetizers or desserts, and make it a great date.

6 Corn maze: It seems all Fall activities involve being in the country or on a farm doesn’t it? You and your wife will enjoy the fresh air and great

10 Shop at a flea market: As vendors are trying to get rid of their stock before the season changes, you may be able to get some good deals. Grab

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some cool stuff, enjoy some time together, and save a dollar or two.

11 Rake leaves: Yes, raking leaves together can be a date night. You just have to make it fun. Remember making leaf piles and jumping in them as kids? Do that with your wife. Let loose and have fun.

12 Have a bonfire: The Fall is not complete without a bonfire. Join some friends for a fire in your back yard fire pit or theirs. If you don’t have one, you may be able to find one near a pumpkin patch or where hayrides are done.

13 Take a long drive in the country: The colors of the leaves in Fall are amazing! Get in your car and just drive. Talk, enjoy what you see, and take as long as you can before coming back home to the kids.

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16 • October 2017

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Fall is in the air with cooler weather and the colors of outdoors changing. This time of year is a great time to take your family on a picnic and make some great memories which will last a lifetime. Memories your children will cherish because you made time to be with them. As you plan your next picnic, review this list of possible things to do:

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1. Play a game of freeze tag or hide and seek.

Children love to run and play with their parents. Make sure the area is safe and the boundaries are explained and understood. Always practice safety.

2. Find different types and colors of leaves.

Children are in school and at some point in time will have to turn in a leaf collection.

Take the time to help them start with you as their partner.

3. Sing Songs.

Take a guitar with you and, if you play, sing funny songs, kids songs, and hymns. If you do not play an instrument, just burst out in song. This will no doubt bring about some laughter.

4. Walk around the park talking about life issues.

Taking time to walk and enjoy nature may also open the door for conversations to feel more natural. Everyone may be relaxed, ready, willing and able to talk about life issues.

5. Go fishing.

Life is hectic and seems so rushed. Fishing helps us slow down with family, relax, talk, enjoy a lunch and, most importantly, build stronger family bonds.

6. Play a board game on the blanket.

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Bring your favorite board games and build a stronger relationship with family. If you are highly competitive, you may want to change the rules to make it more fun and less about winning.

7. People watch.

Watch other individuals and families— how they act and react to others. Use this as a time to intentionally talk about right and wrong behaviors. Spend time talking about how you want your family to be and how you can get there.

8. Pray before you eat your lunch.

Pack a special picnic and pray before you eat. Thank God for the time with your child, the beauty of the park, and the food.

9. Fly a kite.

Make a picnic lunch together as a family. Stop by the store and purchase a kite for everyone, then find a park or open field to fly your kites together.

10. Have a water balloon fight.

Children love water and love seeing other people get wet. Before the picnic, secretively make a cooler of water balloons. Then after the picnic, surprise them with an aerial assault.

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October 2017 • 17

PETS AND FALL GARDENS The cooler temperatures of autumn bring many enjoyable outdoor tasks.

Tending a garden is one of them. Many gardeners take opportunity to plant and enjoy new flowers for the fall season.

Sometimes their pets harm their gardens, though, by digging holes, chewing plants, ravaging flowers, and more.

But did you know that your fall garden can also pose hazards for your pet?

Here are some tips to keep your pooch safe from your fall garden.

Autumn is the time of harvest, and leaves will be falling. Other things that fall from trees can also pose danger to your dog – things like pits, stems, and leaves from apricots, peaches, cherries, and plums. Make sure your fall garden is free from these. They contain cyanide glycoside, which is a toxic substance. Same goes for dried leaves, so better rake your garden!

Don’t let any toxic plants remain for your dog to chew.

Along with falling leaves, you might find broken, bare branches in your garden. These can cause cuts and scratches. Your dog could even get poked in the eye. Here in Florida, the water oak trees are dropping their acorns. That can present a choking hazard – as well as a “squirrel in the yard” hazard! My dogs run straight for the trees these days when the back door opens!

You can’t stop your dog from being playful. They love to run and prance around and be cute – but sometimes they do things that are dangerous. As always, the best way to keep them safe is supervision. Just these last couple of weeks, two of my dogs encountered frogs! Two emergency vet visits later (after almost losing our schnauzer), we were reminded: they need to be watched at all times.

Tammy Vasquez Owner: Bark Life 727-399-Dogs (3647)

Decomposition slows down during the cold season. Dogs find stinky smells and moldy foods appealing and will not have second thoughts about munching down!

Your pets will be drawn to compost bins, so make sure they don’t have access to them. Not only will they get sick, but you will have a mess to clean up!

Some home owners winterize their lawns with fertilizers to generate dormancy of plants. Be sure that the fertilizer you use is non-toxic. If you are hiring a landscape company to apply it, check with them to be

If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future editorials please email me at barklifecares@gmail.com.

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sure. See your veterinarian if ever your pet gets sick; don’t wait too long, or it can be too late.

Dogs and cats make great pets. These loyal creatures have become part of the family for many; so take precautionary measures this autumn to prevent accidents. Keep your vet’s number (and an emergency vet’s number too) on speed dial. You never know when you might need it.

Tammy Vasquez Owner: Bark Life I would love to hear your ideas for future articles or questions. Please email me at barklifecares@gmail.com

Morning Star School’s

2017 Annual Auction Fundraiser Date Time

MORN NG Saturday, November 11,I 2017 STAR SCHOOL 6:30p—10:30p

All proceeds from this evening directly benefit the students of Morning Star Catholic School. Funds generated help to defray the costs of providing an individualized education for students with learning related challenges.

Location St. Jude Parish Center 5815 5th Ave North St. Petersburg, Florida Tickets

$40 per person (includes general admission and dinner) Table sponsorships are available starting at $125.

Please call (727) 544-6036 or visit www.eventbrite.com to purchase tickets or a sponsorship today.

Please join us in supporting Morning Star Catholic School at the 2017 Annual Auction Fundraiser. It is an exciting evening that includes a catered buffet dinner, beer and wine, a silent auction and a live auction.

Auction items include: Disney Hopper Passes, beach hotel stays, tickets to local attractions like Busch Gardens, Lowry Park Zoo, the Sarasota Opera and the Dali Museum, Kendra Scott jewelry, sports memorabilia, and auction baskets featuring gift cards to popular retailers, restaurants and more!

18 • October 2017

Enjoy a great night out while supporting a great, 501c3 non-profit school.

Since 1969, Morning Star School has been dedicated to serving students with learning challenges and related issues. We are a 1st–12th grade school.

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To advertise, call 727-612-0783

October 2017 • 19

How to Help a Friend Through Breast Cancer

by Janet Thompson Founder of Woman to Woman Mentoring

“I’m sorry… but you do have breast cancer.”

Those shocking words crackling through my cell phone rocked my world eleven years ago. I was running errands…trying to outrun suspected bad news. After the doctor’s parting words, “You’ll be fine,” I fired up the car engine and started driving and dialing.

The first person I called, after I told my husband, was my best friend, but she couldn’t comprehend the diagnosis. “A positive biopsy doesn’t mean it’s malignant, does it?” she asked.

It’s hard to know what to say or do when a friend or relative drops the bombshell news that she has breast cancer. Often our natural response is to recoil and retreat. Maybe it’s the fear of facing our own mortality or the time and emotion required if we do get involved. We ease our conscience by thinking: she would rather be alone right now anyway. Or she needs her family at a time like this.

Or she has so many friends; I know someone will help her.

20 • October 2017

We may send a card or make a call offering to help, closing with “I’ll be praying for you,” then on we go about our life while her life crumbles. Yet the Bible clearly tells us to, “Help each other in troubles and problems. This is the kind of law Christ asks us to obey.”

How can we put that verse into practical terms? What does it truly mean to help each other in troubles and problems?

Perhaps you can glean some ideas from the ways my friends and family came along side me during my initial breast cancer journey and two recurrences.

Helping Her with the Bad Days

Don’t Just Offer to Help — Do Something Tangible Most of us find it difficult to receive help; we are hesitant to impose on others. When asked the generic question, “How can I help you?” our common response is, “I’m fine, but thank you for asking.” Truthfully, we need every-

thing, but we don’t know if the person is offering to mop our floors or pick up our kids from school—both of which we need, but are afraid to ask.

Another well-meaning comment I received was, “Just call me if you need anything.” Now how many women are going to pick up the phone and ask for help, especially if they are not feeling well? Again, we don’t know what the person is willing to do for us, and we don’t want to be a burden.

So instead of offering to help—just jump in and do something. If you know your friend well, you know where she needs help; and even if you don’t know her well, you know where all women need help. If she is in the midst of cancer treatment, she is going to need assistance with every area of her life, especially if she is single. Here are some practical ideas: 1. Schedule her friends, family, and church to bring meals. Use your lunch break to take her lunch and eat with her.

2. Offer to drive her to doctor’s appointments or treatments and take notes for her.

3. Shuttle her kids to and from school or find someone who can.

4. Sit with her during chemo treatments or accompany her to radiation. Talk, read a book to her, or just hold her hand.

5. Take her children on a play date or to your house.

6. Do her laundry.

7. Do her grocery shopping. If she is too sick to dictate a list, take an

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inventory of her refrigerator and cupboards and make your own list.

8. Answer her email.

9. Bring her a gift that makes her feel feminine.

10. If she feels like talking, sit and chat with her. When she doesn’t feel like talking, just be a presence in her home so she doesn’t feel alone.

11. Babysit her kids so she and her husband can have some private time.

12. Clean her house or pay someone to do it.

13. Go with her to pick out a wig or prosthesis.

14. Pick up prescriptions.

15. Run errands.

My first surgery and treatment extended over the Christmas holidays, and we had six grandchildren at that time.

I had bought their presents already but couldn’t imagine wrapping them. So my friend took all the presents home and wrapped them, as well as organizing other friends to deliver meals for three months. During my recuperation, she sat on my bed with my laptop, read my emails to me, and then sent my dictated answers. Later, she accompanied me to radiation, fixed my hair when I had a frozen shoulder, and stuck beside me through the entire cancer ordeal, even though she admits that her first reaction to my phone call on that dreaded diagnosis day was, “Lord, I don’t want to do this.” God assured her that she could do it, and she did.

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Helping Her Enjoy the Good Days Be Happy with Her When She’s Happy

Cancer is a grim word. Overnight life becomes serious, tense, and laden with fear. There is very little laughter during those first shocking days following the “dreaded diagnosis.” But life continues and there are going to be good days interspersed with the bad. An insightful friend will capitalize on the moments of reprieve when there is an opportunity to laugh or smile. Be ready, because it may only last a moment, but the break from pain and fear is immeasurable.

If your friend is having an especially good day, avoid topics that you know will bring her down. You aren’t minimizing or making light of the seriousness of the situation, but you are giving her a recess from the intensity. Don’t fake happiness, but take advantage of humorous or lighter moments. Smile.

Laugh. Be happy. Don’t let the serious eclipse the humorous.

I remember laughing at myself one day in the shower when I realized that I was so carefully not shaving under my left arm because of the lymph node surgery, that I also wasn’t shaving my left leg.

I frequently retold that story so people could laugh with me.

Shower Her with Love Surprise her. What woman doesn’t love an unexpected gift or demonstration of how valuable she is to us? We were in the midst of a messy kitchen remodel when breast cancer assaulted me. Everything in my life seemed out of control. But I felt so loved the day I returned home after the painful needle biopsy and spotted amongst the rubble—gift bags full of treats with balloons attached and a card from two girlfriends assuring me they had been praying during the ordeal.

The Bible assures us that “A friend loves at all times.” What a privilege it is to put that verse into practice for your precious friend with breast cancer.

You probably won’t be able to do everything I suggest and I hope you have ideas of your own, but as a three-time breast cancer survivor, I assure you there are three things that will endure through the good and the bad times— faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.

Janet Thompson is a three-time breast cancer survivor, speaker, and author of the “Dear God” book series including, Dear God, They Say It’s Cancer: A Companion Guide for Women on the Breast Cancer Journey. Janet found purpose in her breast cancer journey by writing for her breast cancer sisters the book she wished she had going through her surgeries and treatment.

Visit Janet’s Breast Cancer Support page on her website www.womantowomanmentoring.com.

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October 2017 • 21

Adoption in the Empty-Nest Years

7 Things I Wish I’d Known Before Adopting

What empty-nest families can offer a child

by Paul J. Batura

by Matt Kaufman

1 The adoption process is hard, but it’s good

Empty nesters who have finished raising their kids still have plenty to offer children who have no home of their own.

“EMPTY-NEST families usually aren’t trying to fill a void in their lives,” says Jason Weber, national director of foster care initiatives for the Christian Alliance for Orphans. “They’re looking solely to give a home to a child who needs one. They’re more likely to adopt a child from foster care, from an orphanage or from another country— the kids who are harder to place.”

Empty-nest adoption and foster care come with unique advantages and challenges, Weber says.

Among the advantages: The families are better able to handle kids who’ve been through trauma. They’re more experienced and often more flexible with their time and finances.

Among the challenges: It can be tough to muster up the required physical energy. And they may have to alter their expectations for spending time with their grandchildren.

In that vein, adoptive parent Teerie Morrow urges empty nesters to consider every aspect of their lives before pursuing adoption.

“I don’t want to discourage adoptions, but I want to discourage failed

If you’re the kind of person who likes everything neat and predictable, you’re going to have to let that go.

Almost every adoption discussion involves more questions than answers. adoptions,” Morrow says. “These children can’t handle that.

“I wouldn’t go back or have done anything differently because it was God’s plan for our lives. But make sure it’s God’s plan for your lives. Count the cost. Consider the strength of your marriage, your relationships, the impact on the rest of the family.”

An empty-nest adoption absolutely requires some sacrifices, Weber says, but you’ll rarely hear them expressed as regrets.

“We talk to people who say things like, ‘All our friends are going on long vacations and we’re still doing science fairs,’” he says. “But they’re not complaining when they say that.

They’re saying, ‘We’re glad that we’re doing this instead.’”

“Things you may have looked forward to your whole life and saved for, like buying a boat, now you’re putting that money into a special school your kid needs. But I’ve never met anyone who regrets givin up those old dreams.”

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22 • October 2017

Everyone wants to put their best foot forward when putting together an adoption profile, but don’t be afraid to be vulnerable and down-to-earth. Most birthparents appreciate authenticity.

3 Don’t let the cost scare you away Private and agency adoptions tend to be the most expensive, but the federal adoption tax credit is significant.

Adopting from foster care, meanwhile, is often less than $2,000. Low-interest loans are also available. In the end, don’t be afraid to ask for help.

4 Dont keep your desire to adopt a secret Although it’s a very personal and intimate matter, resist the urge to keep quiet about it. Adoption placements often occur through family and friends of friends, so the more people who know of your interest to adopt, the greater your chances of being matched with a child.

That stress-free, smile-filled, pictureperfect meeting between the adoptive parents and their new son or daughter—the one you see in the movies?

That may happen eventually, but before it does, there are mountains of paperwork, interviews, financial disclosures, difficult decisions, home visits, parent training, CPR classes, fingerprints and waiting. Lots of waiting.

6 A good attorney is worth the expense Skilled legal counsel is invaluable.

Some adoption agencies have attorneys, but they’re responsible for representing the agency, not necessarily your family.

7 Yes, you can love them just as much Partially out of ignorance and admittedly out of pride, I was initially determined to do whatever my wife and I could conceive a child naturally.

I’m so thankful that God had other plans.

Paul J Batura is the vice president of communications for Focus on the Family.

He is the author of Chosen for Greatness: How Adoption Changes the World.

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Michelle Age 15

Loyal and shy, Michelle is happiest when she gets to hang out with her friends or is in her 3D Art class. Michelle would like to be a veterinarian someday and is hoping to have a dog of her own. Fetty Wap, Future and Kodiak are her favorite musicians, Call of Duty is her favorite video game, and purple is her favorite color. She’s all about tacos, but please keep the stuffing off her plate. Michelle’s ideal forever family is an English speaking Hispanic family that will give her the opportunity to be a middle child while maintaining her biological connections.

Fiel y tímida, Michelle se siente más feliz cuando está con sus amigos o en su clase de arte en 3D. Michelle quiere ser veterinaria y desea tener un perrito o perrita en algún momento de su vida. Sus músicos favoritos son Fetty Wap, Future y Kodak y su videojuego favorito es Call of Duty. Su color favorito es el morado o violeta.

Le encantan los tacos, pero no le gusta el relleno del pavo de Acción de Gracias. La familia ideal para Michelle es una familia hispana que hable inglés y que le dé la oportunidad de convertirse en la hija del medio mientras le permite mantenerse en contacto con su familia biológica.

For more information about the Heart Gallery visit www.heartgallerykids.org or call 727-258-4806.

October 2017 • 23

Halloween can be so much more than just one night of trick-or-treating. This October take your little ladybugs and monsters to these local attractions and add an extra dose of magic to their October.

Brick or Treat

LEGOLAND Florida, Weekends Oct. 14–29, Oct 31

Family Fall Fun SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular Weekends October 1–29

It’s an ocean of Halloween fun for the whole family at SeaWorld Orlando’s Halloween Spooktacular. During this daytime event, families are immersed in an underwater “fantasea” including trick-or-treating, whimsical sea creatures, and more in this family-friendly event that could only come from SeaWorld.

This ultimate family-friendly event returns this year with even more colorful characters. Meet everyone’s favorite Sesame Street friends including Elmo, The Count, Cookie Monster and more, plus watch our silly, not-so-spooky live shows, and trick or treat for candy and goodies throughout the park. For more information visit www.seaworldparks.com/spooktacular.

24 • October 2017

This Halloween event is built for kids! Brick or Treat returns on select dates this October with nightly themed fireworks!

Ghouls, ghosts and goblins descend on Miniland USA transforming it into a haunted adventure with a scavenger hunt in search for these scary creatures that have invaded our famous cities. This spooky event takes place select weekends in October, and features trick-or-treating along the brick or treat trail, super brick build activities, the largest LEGO Jack-O-Lantern in the world, Halloween entertainment and an all-kids costume contest with brick-tastic prizes! For more information visit www.legoland.com/florida.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party October 1, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29, 31 This October celebrate Halloween...with a Disney twist! Back again this Fall, it’s the happiest haunting on Earth! Don’t miss your chance to collect candies, sweets and frightfully delightful treats—all while the park hosts grim grinning ghosts, eerie entertainment and Disney Characters that go bump in the night. Best of all: since the tone of this event is “not-soscary,” that means children of every age can enjoy the fun!

So get your favorite costume ready for Mickey’s Not-SoScary Halloween Party and come discover all the boo-tiful ways that the spirits of the season have transformed the park into a happy haunted hallows. For more information visit www.disneyworld.disney.go.com.

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Creatures of the Night

Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo, Friday & Saturday Nights October 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 & 28 Creatures of the Night returns even spookier than last year, for ghouls and goblins of all ages! Hoot, howl and hang out as the Zoo transforms into an eerie and immersive Halloween adventure for the whole family. Creatures emerge at dusk with startling surprises around every corner. No horror or gore, just fun frights for all! For more information visit www.lowryparkzoo.com. www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Guppyween

City of Largo Spooktacular

Florida Aquarium, October 28 & 29, 1–5 p.m.

Join the Florida Aquarium on the only day they let wild animals, ghosts and princesses roam the aquarium—Guppyween! Trick-or-treat tank-to-tank among over 20,000 sea creatures, making for the perfect family-friendly Halloween event. Entertainment and treats will be provided, so come dressed in your best costume! All Aquarium exhibits, including the new outdoor plaza tiki bar and Splash Pad, will be open.

For more information visit www.flaquarium.org.

October 28, 12–5 p.m.

Sesame Street Kids’ Weekends Busch Gardens, Weekends October 1–29

Celebrate Halloween with Elmo, Abby, Grover and all your favorite Sesame Street friends every Saturday and Sunday during Sesame Street Safari of Fun Kids’ Weekends. Show off your family costumes during each themed weekend while you trick-or-treat, enjoy exclusive crafts, explore through a hay bale maze and play fall-inspired activities and games in our newly expanded festival area. Then, join your favorite Sesame Street friends during a character parade and dance party at 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. each event day. For more information visit www.buschgardens.com.

Plan on a good time at this year’s Halloween Spooktacular event held at Largo Central Park, 101 Central Park Drive. This widely popular, familyfriendly event includes fun and games for kids 14 and under. Enjoy activities, music, a hay maze, concessions and much more. Bounce houses, a petting zoo and strolling entertainment are just a few of the activities that make this a great event for the whole family. Wristbands are needed for most activities. For more information visit www.largoevents.com.

Hyde Park Village Fall Fest October 8, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

Bring the family and join us as we celebrate the autumn season with Fall Fest. Fall Fest marks the opening of the famous Hyde Park Village pumpkin patch. The whole family can enjoy face painting, pumpkin carving, a photo op area, seasonal samples and crafts. For more information, visit www.hydeparkvillage.com.

Glazer Children’s Museum Halloween Spree October 31, 4 – 8 p.m.

Get your little goblins ready for trick-or-treating inside the Museum! Dress to impress for the costume contests and parades.

Monsters, ghosts, and ghouls of all kinds can wiggle, wobble, and work it to the music of some spooky tunes between visits to all of the museums trick or treat stations filled with games, prizes, and candy. For more information visit www.glazermuseum.org.

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727-391-9788 www.seminoleag.org October 2017 • 25

Fox Squirrel Corn Maze Weekends, October 7 – 29

A Night at the Museum –Tampa Family Trick or Treat Bay History Center, October 22, 2 p.m.–7 p.m.

Families are invited to haunt the History Center while they trick or treat their way through our hands-on exhibits and snag candy from historical figures come to life during A Night at the Museum, at the Tampa Bay History Center.

Storm Troopers and other Star Wars characters from the 501st Legion join pirates, pioneers and other ghosts from Florida’s past as they haunt the History Center.

New this year, A Night at the Museum features a kid’s silent disco, powered by the Gasparilla Music Festival, along with a costume contest for prizes and crafts and games. The event is appropriate for all ages. For more information visit www.tampabayhistorycenter.org.

The Great EEKS!-PLORATION Great Explorations, October 28, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

The Fox Squirrel Corn Maze and Sunflowers On the Ranch events are hosted on the Futch Family Ranch by your friendly neighbors of Plant City. They have opened the barnyard gates again to bring you four weekends of some great fun in the sun! Come stroll through 5 acres of beautifully hand grown sunflowers and colorful zinnias that have been planted in the same place as the popular October Fox Squirrel Corn Maze. For more information, visit www.foxsquirrelcornmaze.com.

Bucs Squad for Youth Pumpkin Patch Hydro Harvest Farm’s Saturday, October 21, 3–6 p.m.

Come and enjoy an afternoon of fall fun as the Buccaneers host their Second Annual Bucs Squad for Youth Pumpkin Patch Celebration. The event is action packed, with entertainment for everyone. Guests have the opportunity to enjoy picking and decorating a pumpkin from the massive pumpkin patch, a thrilling pirate ship ride around One Buc Place, and brushing up on football skills with the Quarterback Challenge and Play 60 Drills. Children also get to strut their stuff at the costume contest and parade, showing off some of the cutest, scariest, and most creative costumes around. The Buccaneers Cheerleaders will also be on hand to visit with families, pose for pictures, and lead children in learning new dance moves! For more information visit www.buccaneers.com/BucsSquad/PumpkinPatch.

Celebrate the Halloween with fall crafts and fall-themed activities and trick-or-treating at the Great Explorations Children’s Museum. Children will toss a ring around a pumpkin, pin the leaf on the tree, make “hop” corn, make hand bats, mummy collages and much more! $2 off admission with costume. For more information visit www.greatex.org.

Great Pumpkin Patch Weekends, October 1 – 29

You will not want to miss out on this year’s Great Pumpkin Patch at Hydro Harvest Farms – with tons of Jack O Lanterns, Gourds, Hay bales and cornstalks. Photo opportunities abound at the pumpkin patch and dogs are always welcome.

For more information visit www.hydroharvestfarms.com.

Our Lady of Lourdes Fall Festival October 12 – 15

For over forty years, the OLL Fall Festival has been an integral part of the Dunedin community. Every October, volunteers from the parish and school come together to put up the “big tent” and fill the school campus with rides, games, music, laughter, and fun! Dozens of rides cater to children of all ages with a special section of “kiddie rides” for the little ones. Festival attendees can win prizes at a variety of games or through the raffle, which this year offers a $3,000 grand prize! For information visit www.ollfallfestival.com.

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Trunk or Treat

Starkey Road Baptist Church, October 31, 6–8 p.m.

Come visit Starkey Road Baptist Church for some Halloween fun - Trunk or Treat! Families decorate their trunks in the main parking lot and distribute Halloween treats to those who are dressed in their costumes. Everyone is invited. For information visit www.srbc.org.

Sacred Heart Fall Festival

Pumpkin Palooza Family Fall Festival

This five-day community fall festival is a fun time for all and a great event for the entire family. Admission and parking are free. Rides are provided by Myers International Midways with a variety of kiddy rides, standard rides and spectacular rides. There are also a variety of games for the kids. As for food there is a very large variety, including great food sponsored by local restaurants. For more information visit www.sacredheartfestival.com.

The GFWC St. Petersburg Junior Woman’s Club is hosting its 14th Annual Pumpkin Palooza Family Fall Festival. This event offers a pumpkin patch, kids’ games, face & hair painting, inflatables, food & treats, arts & crafts vendors, opportunity drawing baskets, and a community awareness zone. This year the event will be held at Northside Baptist Church, 6000 38th Avenue North Saint Petersburg. Admission to the event is free, and new this year, there will be local food trucks on-site and the option for a “play all day” wristband. Bring your family and enjoy a great day! For information visit www.gfwc-spjwc.org.

October 11 – 15

Sweet Fields Farm Fall Fun

Harvest Holler Corn Maze Weekends, October 1 – 29

For a really fun day on a working family farm come visit the Harvest Holler Farm and Corn Maze. Conveniently located just 10 minutes north of Lakeland, FL, and less than 45 minutes from either Orlando or Tampa, it is a great place to enjoy an amazing corn maze, visit a pumpkin patch, pet live farm animals and enjoy a fun hay ride! Plus much more. For more information visit www.harvestholler.com.

Saturday, October 7, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.

Scarecrow Festival

Weekends, October 1 – 30

Pioneer Florida Museum, October 14, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Fall Season opens Sunday October 1st! Get your season started with a Fall-tastic visit to the farm. Pumpkins, Hayrides, Fresh Pressed Apple Cider… need we say more. There is always something new to experience at Sweet Fields Farm! Even though recent weather took away the large corn maze this year, the storm left room for the addition of other fun activities. It is definitely going to be a fun Fall season at the farm! For more information visit www.sweetfieldsfarm.com.

Come take a trip back in time at the Pioneer Florida Museum and Village and enjoy their annual Scarecrow Festival. Take part in traditional old fashioned fall games and activities. Guests can make a scarecrow, touch a truck, take part in a spelling bee, ride a train, get your face painted and much more. Also, don’t forget to stop by the museum’s amazing Pumpkin Patch for photos and for your next jack-o-lantern. For more information visit www.pioneerfloridamuseum.org.

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October 2017 • 27

Evaluating Football Injuries by

by Ted Ted A. A. Kaplan, Kaplan, MD, MD, FAAP, FAAP, After After Hours Hours Pediatrics Pediatrics Urgent Urgent Care Care Dr. Ted A. Kaplan is a board certified pediatrician at After Hours Pediatrics Urgent Care (www.afterhourspediatrics.com).

School’s in session and that means football season. In today’s world, that includes children as young as four to five years old playing tackle football, with all the bells and whistles (helmets, refs, scoreboards, stadiums, etc.). It’s important to be able to evaluate your child for certain types of injuries.

Injured Arms and Legs For the younger kids (under the age of ten), unless you see some obvious deformity in the arms or legs, it will be rare your child has a serious injury, even with lots of crying and thrashing around. Gently take the child off the field and put ice on the injured area for 15 minutes: always place a cloth between the skin and the ice pack to avoid injury). If your child’s injury needs further attention, give a dose of acetaminophen (Tylenol®) and wait at least another hour

or two before seeking medical attention.

This approach will save a lot of unnecessary trips to the doctor.

If there is a visibly deformed bone, call 911 so fire rescue can splint the limb and transport your child for medical attention.

If things are improving, but there is still a sore area, continue ice treatment for 15 minutes every two hours (again, through a cloth so you don’t freeze the skin); give acetaminophen as needed; and instruct your child not to use the area until it is pain free.

Your child should not go back into a game or back to practice until there is no pain or limping without the use of pain medicine.

Some extra padding to the area that was injured (usually bruised) will make things more comfortable for your little player.

Head and Neck Injuries

You may visit the doctor to check out continuing pain sometime within the first 48 hours. Even if it is determined there is a broken bone, waiting the extra time to see if the symptoms resolve will not delay healing.

Head injuries can lead to concussions and brain damage that get worse with repeated exposure. If your child is complaining of headaches related to football, he should stop play and see his doctor.

Head and neck injuries are treated more cautiously since the potential consequences of an injury can be serious. The good news is it is rare to have significant head or neck injuries before 14-15 years old. The culprit in most of these injuries is head/helmet tackling, so do what you can to make sure your child doesn’t do this and that his coaches don’t teach or encourage it.

If your child is complaining of either head or neck pain, he should stop any further play until cleared by a doctor. If he is lying on the field complaining of either of these, call 911 so he can be moved in a safe manner.

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28 • October 2017

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7 Steps to a Better Smile

by Dr. Nick Reynolds, Northeast Orthodontics Wish you had close-to-perfect pearly whites? (Who doesn’t!) Then make all seven of these dental-health musts a part of your daily routine.

before bedtime. When you sleep, you produce less saliva, which leaves teeth and gums particularly vulnerable to bacteria.

It’s probably no surprise that a bright, white smile can make you appear younger and more attractive. In fact, according to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, a whopping 96 percent of respondents surveyed believe an attractive smile makes a person more appealing.

3. Visit your dentist. Visit your dentist at least twice a year for thorough dental cleanings. Your dentist can spot the early signs of gum disease, which is more easily treated when caught in the beginning stages. If you are prone to gum disease and cavities, consider visiting your dentist every four months.

But good dental health goes beyond the way you look. The mouth is the gateway to the body, which means the state of your teeth and gums affects your overall health. By following these steps to a better smile, you’ll be taking important strides for the rest of your body, too.

Similarly, if you have other health conditions that put you at higher risk for dental problems (such as diabetes, or a depressed immune system from HIV, cancer, or chemotherapy), ask your dentist how often you should have an exam. A special dental-hygiene regimen should be considered for pregnant women, people with diabetes, and anyone undergoing chemotherapy treatment or using medications that can affect the gums.

1. Brush regularly. Brushing is the cornerstone of dental hygiene. It removes food particles that bacteria feed on, cleans teeth, and freshens breath. A toothpaste with fluoride helps strengthen teeth, but you must brush for at least two minutes to allow it to do its work.

Many electric toothbrushes have a builtin two-minute timer, which can make brushing for the full amount of time easier.

2. Floss daily. Flossing removes the bacteria from in between your teeth that your toothbrush does not reach, which helps prevent gum disease. We recommend flossing twice a day, but if you only do it once daily, be sure to floss

It’s wise to examine your own mouth regularly for signs of trouble, such as a nonhealing sore on the lip or inside of your cheek, swollen gums, or sensitive or bleeding gums. If you notice any of these conditions, make an extra dental appointment to have them checked out.

4. Eat a healthy diet. Include plenty of dairy and other calcium-rich foods, like sardines and kale, in your diet. Calcium helps maintain strong bones and teeth, and the vitamin C in citrus fruits boosts

gum health.

Equally important to what you do eat is what you don’t. Sugary and sticky foods that stick to the crevices of your teeth are particularly bad, as bacteria feed off the sugars and release acids that cause cavities. If you do eat candy or other sweets, try to brush immediately afterward or, if that’s not possible, rinse your mouth with water.

5. Don’t smoke or use smokeless tobacco. People who smoke are four times more likely than nonsmokers to have gum disease, according to a study by the Journal of Periodontology. Using smokeless tobacco increases a person’s risk for oral cancers, including lip, tongue, cheeks, and gums.

On a smaller scale, tobacco products contribute to bad breath, or halitosis.

procedure to make sure your teeth and gums are healthy.

7. Consider cosmetic procedures. The first thing a person sees when they meet you is your smile, and having crooked, stained, or missing teeth can affect your confidence. There have been great advances in cosmetic dentistry over the past decade, and it is possible to fix most cosmetic problems. Veneers for improving the appearance of crooked, stained, or oddly shaped teeth and orthodontics for straightening teeth are only two of the many cosmetic procedures offered.

It’s important to schedule a consultation with an experienced orthodontist prior to undergoing any type of procedure.

Dental Fun Fact

Tooth enamel is the hardest substance

6. Whiten teeth. While in the human body. However, people the benefits are solely who drink 3 or more glasses of soda cosmetic, with today’s daily have 62% more tooth decay, products, whitening is a very safe procedure that fillings and tooth loss than others. will not harm your teeth as Every can of soda has 10–12 long as the products are used teaspoons of sugar — the as directed and you are under recommended daily intake the care of a dentist. Over-thecounter whitening products are is 4 teaspoons. effective for minor staining; professional-strength whitening products are better for more-severe yellowing. Speak to your dentist before undergoing any whitening

Dr. Nick Reynolds “Since as long as I can remember, it’s been my goal to pursue a career in which I can work with my hands, help someone everyday, be artistic, strive for perfection, and provide for my community.

Orthodontics is the perfect marriage of all those things. I couldn’t see myself doing anything else!

My goal at Northeast Orthodontics is to provide the children and adults of St. Petersburg with handsome and beautiful smiles while providing first class service, state of the art care, and a friendly atmosphere.”

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

October 2017 • 29

Get ready for the future State and School Honor Shields Middle Reading Teacher, Angela Sabaia

The 9th annual Pinellas County College and Career Fair will be held 6-8 pm., Oct. 2 at Countryside High School. Students will be able to speak with more than 140 representatives from colleges, universities, technical schools, military services and businesses.

Reading Teacher. It’s Angela Sabala’s title at Shields Middle School, but it’s also her passion: passing on her love of reading to her eighth grade students – and it’s paying off.

For more information visit www.pcsb.org or email pcs.lambk@pcsb.org.

Countryside High School 3000 SR 580, Clearwater, FL 33761

Scholarships for graduating seniors The Pinellas Education Foundation provides more than 100 different college and technical school scholarships to more than 250 high school seniors throughout Pinellas County, based on criteria established by the Foundation and sponsors.

Scholarships range in focus from the arts, to science and math, and even sports.

Some are designed for specific areas of study such as nursing or engineering.

Other scholarships reward academic performance and community service, and many are based on financial need.

Scholarships may be either one-time awards or renewable for students who continue to meet the scholarship qualifications throughout college.

Applications for scholarships are available online at www.pinellaseducation.org. Deadline for scholarship applications is 11:59 p.m., January 19, 2018.

Dr. Alicia Isaac wins prestigious Queen Smith Award for commitment to urban education Dr. Alicia Isaac, a social studies teacher and AVID coordinator at Boca Ciega High School has won the prestigious 2017 Annual Queen Smith Award for Commitment to Urban Public Education from the Council of the Great City Schools and McGraw-Hill Education.

The Council of the Great City Schools (CGCS) and McGraw-Hill Education present this award each year to honor the legacy of Queen Smith. Her life represented honor, excellence, and commitment to urban public education.

As the winner of the Queen Smith Award, Dr. Isaac will receive a $5,000 check

30 • October 2017

The Florida Department of Education named Sabala as a High Impact Teacher for 2017.

“She is an amazing teacher, and she deserves this award,” said Aley, an eighth grade reading student.

The state determined the high-impact teachers by looking at their students’ performance on statewide exams and how much growth can be seen from one year to the next.

“She received state recognition as a teacher of high impact with students,” said Shields Middle School Principal Tia Brown. “This means she’s made tremendous learning gains and had her students make tremendous growth over several years. We’re excited to have her as a resident here at Shields Middle.”

“In the last three years my students in my reading class made some gains. It’s great, because it pushes me more to try to help them and help them be successful. I know they’re capable of doing it,” said Sabala.

Sabala has worked at Shields Middle School since moving to Florida from New York in 2006. Principal Brown insists Sabala’s dedication to kids shows through in her success as a teacher and her students’ success.

and plaque honoring her significant contributions to urban education and students.

“Her work ethic, her love for kids, her passion, her drive, she’s just very focused on the goal which is getting her kids to do well and learn in reading,” said Brown.

The award presentation will be held Friday, October 20, 2017, during the Council of the Great City Schools’ 61st Annual Fall Conference.

On top of being honored by the state for her work, the school just named Sabala as Shields Middle School Teacher of the

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

Angela Sabaia Year. “We’re very proud of her and well deserved, Ms. Sabala,” said Brown.

“Today, finding out I’m the Teacher of the Year is awesome. To know that people were happy that I got it, and they believe I am doing my job, and I’m helping the students,” Sabala said.

Coworkers and students stopped by her class to congratulate Sabala. “I knew I was going to come to say congratulations, and I was happy for her. She deserves it,” said Zachari, an eighth grade reading student.

“She teaches in a way that I get it. If I don’t get it, she helps me along with it,” said Kevin, an eighth grade reading student.

Sabala prides herself on consistently being a supportive role model for her students.

“I know what they need so they can be successful, and I continue to do it every day. And I let them know that we’re here because we care, but if they put effort they can be successful,” Sabala said.

Sabala was also the recipient of the Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year for the 2015-2016 school year.

“She pushes them, she challenges them to do better and our students really need that,” said Principal Brown. “They need a champion in their corner and that’s Ms. Sabala.” www.gulfcoastfamily.org

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October 2017 • 31

Cardio Kickboxing: An Intensely FUN Class

By Ana Frias

Cardio kickboxing refers to a fitness class delivered and practiced in groups, where a combination of fast-paced cardio and martial art techniques is applied. It’s often referred as an intense, highenergy workout that tackles beginners and pro athletes alike.

Cardio kickboxing results can be measured in a number of ways, especially by building stamina, increasing flexibility, improving coordination and – the most sought of all – burning calories while building strong, lean muscles.

Our Kickboxing program at American Top Team St Petersburg is known as a popular fitness program that replaces the need for heavy exercise equipment to get the best of a workout. Cardio kickboxing is a full-body workout that targets every part of your body and has become one of the most popular methods for fitness classes.

Another good thing about taking cardio kickboxing, is that you don’t need previous experience to practice the sport. Everyone, with or without training experience, is welcome!

At our kickboxing program, you can expect a full-body workout that engages every muscle group in your body, with a strong focus on your core. Fast movements in our fitness program also aimed at improving and building up your body’s flexibility, your coordination, balance and your reflexes, by making you faster and more aware.

In addition to all the physical results you can get from it, cardio kickboxing is an effective way to relieve stress and vent out anger and/or frustration. Practicing the sport helps your body release hormones (endorphins and dopamine) that improve your mood and block feelings of pain.

Finally, these fitness classes are full of fun! Unlike a traditional martial arts class, the music that sets the mood for the workout, adds to your stimulation and motivation. Our kickboxing classes go by fast and they are highly enjoyable, making you forget about the actual workout and focusing on the fun part.

American Top Team St. Petersburg

Martial Arts for the

Whole Family The discipline is the perfect balance and combination of aerobics; this type of regime focuses on increasing heart rate, thus, burning more fat and calories in a shorter time span. You can expect to burn as many as 350 to 450 calories in a one-hour class. The kickboxing classes in our St Petersburg FL program also include a good, medium-paced warm up and cool down interval – great for muscle recovery – and both dynamic and static stretching. We also include a more-focused interval, aimed at working the core with crunches and planks.

Despite the name (which can scare people away when they don’t know what it implies), cardio kickboxing is a non-contact program.

All the punches and kicks that you throw, are directed into the air, and sometimes onto pads.

Cardio kickboxing is an ideal program within the fitness classes.

This choice is good for those looking to burn calories for weight loss, or to improve stamina and heart health. If you tend to become bored or tired of the same stationary cardio equipment in your gym or at home (treadmills, steppers, etc), you will definitely enjoy the rapid movements and fast rhythm of a cardio kickboxing class.

32 • October 2017

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These types of fitness classes have a positive impact on your heart.

Taking part in a cardio routine improves heart conditions and allow a paced fat loss. Excess body fat has often been associated with having a higher risk of heart failure or disease, diabetes and eating disorders. A good cardio kickboxing class will challenge your physique, by targeting your endurance, resistance, strength and concentration. One should know that, practicing cardio kickboxing is not only physical, but also mental. You will need to focus on movements that make up a good combination.

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Champion Tae Kwon Do

Play Performing Arts

7590 Starkey Rd, Largo 727-399-2999 ChampionTaeKwonDo.net

Drama Kids International Multiple locations 727-877-6835 DramaKids.com/FL9

JMAC Kids

2177 NE Coachman Rd, Clearwater 727-430-3902 JMacKids.com

Keswick Youth Leagues

10101 54th Avenue N, St Petersburg 727-393-9100 KeswickChristian.org

Largo Recreational Center 727-518-3016 727-518-3125 LargoCamps.com

Mary Jo’s

15906 Mapledale Blvd., Tampa 813-969-0240 MJPAA.com

NextUp Baseball Academy

14152 63rd Way N, Clearwater 727-216-6883 NextUpAcademy.com

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Star Struck Dance Studio

9100 113th Street N, Largo 727-501-2501 StarStruckDanceStudio.com

Sylvan Learning Center

3951 Tyrone Blvd, St. Petersburg 1-800-EDUCATE (338-2283) SylvanLearning.com

Tutterow Dancers

Call for locations 727-585-1232 TutterowDancers.com

YMCA

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Extracurricular activities let your child enjoy himself in a fun, stress-free environment, get some exercise, and make friends outside of school. If he shows a special talent, it’s great to nurture that ability through lessons or classes. Here are some great local programs that you might want to consider.

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October 2017 • 33

Tiger Cubs at Disney’s Animal Kingdom A Sumatran tiger at Disney’s Animal Kingdom gave birth to two cubs in August and now the park is sharing photos of the duo! In a blog post on the Disney Parks website, Scott Terrell, the Director of Animal & Science Operations at Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, gave an update on the cubs.

Terrell continued, “Their eyes have opened since you’ve last seen them, and they are also beginning to learn how to walk on their own. The new family is continuing to bond well, as Sohni has been a great mom, feeding and grooming the cubs throughout the day.”

“Last month, Sohni, a Sumatran tiger in our care at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, gave birth to a pair of cubs, and today, I am thrilled to give you an update on their progress,” Terrell said in the post. “Our dedicated team of animal care experts has announced that we have a male and female cub – both weighing about 12 pounds and growing fast.”

The two cubs will stay backstage over the next couple of months before park visitors will get a chance to see them on the Maharajah Jungle Trek.

Terrell also shares that the tigers “were bred through the Species Survival Plan,” and explains that the Sumatran tigers are “critically” endangered.

“You can help support Disney’s efforts to reverse the decline of tigers and other animals by taking part in Connect to Protect, a mobile adventure in which guests participate in conservation ‘missions’ with a digital scientist while exploring Pandora – The World of Avatar and helping protect the habitats of at-risk animals here on Earth.”

Timon Character Meet Coming to Discovery Island at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Beginning October 1, 2017, Timon from Disney’s animated “The Lion King” will be greeting Guests at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park, on Discovery Island for photos and autographs! Timon will be the 2nd character from Disney’s animated “The Lion King” at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Rafiki is currently greeting Guests in Rafiki’s Planet Watch. Be sure to refer to the park’s Times Guide for more information on character meet-and-greets.

Quiz Answers

1. C - Dwight D. Eisenhower.

NASA’s earliest programs were conducted under pressure of competition between the US and the USSR. 2.

3.

4.

5.

9. A - The European Space Agency. The telescope was named after Edwin Powell Hubble, an American C - The Soviet Union’s astronomer, who was often launch of the Sputnik satellite called a “pioneer of distant stars.”

A - For the benefit of all 10. A - Merritt Island, Florida.

D – Explorer The site is near Cape C - Alan Shepard. Shepard Canaveral. claimed that the golf ball 11. A - Project Mercury. went for “miles and miles Mercury launched 20 robotic and miles,” but it later was flights, but four included estimated to have traveled non-human primates.

300-400 yards.

6. C - Michael Collins

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of the Indian Ocean and Western Australia.

12. C - Sally Ride

Bonus: the Endeavor at the California Science Center in Los Angeles, the Discovery at the Smithsonian in Washington D.C., the Atlantis at the Kennedy Space Center 8. B - The first space station in Merritt Island, Fla., and launched into orbit by the the Enterprise at the Intrepid United States. In 1979, Sea-Air Space Museum in New Skylab reentered the Earth’s York City. atmosphere over portions 7. C - Apollo 11. Armstrong’s first words on the moon were, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Exploring the Universe Quiz World Space Week is observed annually from October 4–10. Today, many aspects of modern human life are influenced by space technology.

To commemorate this week and man’s accomplishments in space, we would like to challenge you with our “Exploring the Universe” quiz. So come and explore, and test your knowledge of NASA, astronauts, and more space related trivia. And most of all have fun.

1. In 1958, which US President signed the National Aeronautics and Space Act, officially establishing NASA? a. John F. Kennedy b. Harry S. Truman

6. Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin are famous for being the first men on the moon. So what was the name of that other guy who had to stay in orbit and c. Dwight D. Eisenhower miss the fun? d. Lyndon B. Johnson

2. What event is primarily thought to have jolted the United States into creating a space program? a. The publishing of Jules Verne’s From the Earth to the Moon b. A flux in the Earth’s magnetic field that required study from space

3. What is NASA’s motto? a. For the benefit of all b. Through space and time

c. The Soviet Union’s launch of the Sputnik satellite d. The premiere of the science fiction film “Star Wars”

c. For tomorrow’s future d. To infinity and beyond

4. What was the name of the first satellite successfully launched by the United States? a. Ares b. Enterprise

c. Moonraker d. Explorer

5. Who is the only astronaut to have hit a golf ball on the moon? a. James Lovell Jr. b. John Glenn

c. Alan Shepard d. Michael Phelps

a. John Glenn b. Michael Collins

c. James A. Lovell, Jr. d. Jean Luc Picard

7. Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin, the first people to walk on the moon, traveled there on which Apollo spacecraft? a. Apollo 9 b. Apollo 10

c. Apollo 11 d. Apollo 13

8. What is Skylab? a. A US space laboratory based in Puerto Rico b. The first space station launched into orbit by the United States

c. A future space station stop for astronauts traveling to Mars d. A totally made up lab, used to fool the Soviet Union.

9. The Hubble Space Telescope is a joint collaboration between NASA and who? a. The European Space Agency b. The Russian Federal Space Agency

c. China Aerospace Science & Technology Corporation d. The United Federation of Planets

10. John F. Kennedy Space Center, NASA’s space vehicle launch facility and Launch Control Center is located where? a. Merritt Island, FL

c. Houston, TX

b. Alamogordo, NM

d. Roswell, NM

11. NASA’s first human spaceflight program specialized in orbital and sub-orbital flight, with capsules only large enough to hold one pilot. What was the program called? a. Project Mercury

c. STARS Mission

b. Space Surveyor Program

d. Project Gemini

12. Who was the first American woman to reach outer space? a. Judith Resnick

c. Sally Ride

b. Ellen Ripley

d. Kathryn Janeway

Bonus: All told, four shuttles have been placed in museums around America after the program officially ended in last year. Name each museum and the shuttle that was placed there.

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October 2017 • 35

with Jim Daly

FATHER CONCERNED WITH UPCOMING DEPLOYMENT’S IMPACT ON FAMILY

Q: I’m a soldier getting ready to deploy overseas (again).

Previous deployments have negatively impacted my relationship with my kids. My wife and I want to be proactive this time; do you have any suggestions?

frequently. Tell her she’s beautiful. Fill her soul with words of affirmation that bring her heart to life.

Jim: I thank you for your service, and my heart goes out to your family. Life can be tough for military households, especially when one of the parents is deployed. But it is possible to have an influence at home when you’re half a world away.

But just as important as what your daughter hears from you is what she sees from you. Mom, she’ll watch how much emphasis you place on outer beauty and how positively or negatively you talk about yourself. Dad, your daughter will notice how you treat women. If she sees you objectifying women, she may believe it’s OK for men to treat her the same way.

For example, use recorded messages. Before being deployed, make some videos of yourself reading stories to the kids, telling them you love them, encouraging them to obey Mom and so on. Many families also use Skype or similar technology to allow the deployed parent to interact with the family in real-time.

Here’s what I suggest: Don’t overemphasize your daughter’s outer beauty or her inner beauty. Address her as a whole person. Teach her that she’s a unique human being with a body, a soul and a spirit. Help her to balance what she sees in the mirror and who she is on the inside. That’s how she’ll discover genuine happiness.

Also, spouses should consult and consort whenever possible. Even when you’re overseas, you should talk about major decisions that will impact the family. Make sure the kids know that Mom and Dad are still making decisions together.

Families should also communicate in both directions. Mom can send Dad pictures of the kids and their artwork and school projects -- maybe even video clips of them in their everyday routine. At the same time, the family needs to hear from the deployed father, even if he just has the energy to say he’s tired and will share more later. (These same principles apply when Mom is the one who’s deployed.)

With a little work, a spouse at home can help keep the deployed parent at the center of the family, even from thousands of miles away. We have plenty of information for military households at FocusOnTheFamily.com.

DAUGHTER LOSING PERSPECTIVE AS SHE OBSESSES OVER HER LOOKS Q: Our 14-year-old daughter has recently become obsessed with her appearance. She’ll practically lock herself in her bedroom or bathroom until she gets her hair, makeup and clothes perfect. What can we do as her parents to help her keep her perspective?

P.S. Your daughter might be interested in our organization’s Brio magazine for teen girls. Call 1-800-232-6459 or see FocusOnTheFamily.com for details.

Jim: It’s no secret that teens today—and especially girls— are pressured from all directions about their appearance.

Social media only makes it worse. So you want to be proactive about helping your daughter balance her desire for outer beauty with her inner self-confidence.

Many parents don’t have a plan. Mom says to Dad, “You need to talk to her.” And Dad says to Mom, “You’re a woman. This is your territory.” But your teenage daughter needs to hear that she’s beautiful from both of you—

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HUSBAND WANTS TO DO MORE TO HONOR HIS WIFE Q: After 15 years of marriage, I’m starting to realize that I take my wife for granted. I want to start honoring her better, but I’m not sure where to start.

Jim: Here’s an illustration that might come as a surprise: ballet. A friend once told me about a famous Russian choreographer who said, “The ballet is woman.” What he meant is that the beauty of the dance is primarily captured by a woman’s grace, her strength and her expression of beauty through the language of movement.

The male ballet dancer’s primary role is to showcase his female partner. When he lifts her and twirls her, she should glow in the spotlight and wow the audience. When he uses his strength to support her through her most difficult steps,

he helps her achieve more from her performance than she could on her own. Then, while the audience rewards her with a thunderous standing ovation, the male dancer steps back into the shadows while she is celebrated and adored.

What if we husbands adopted that same attitude toward our wives? What if men asked themselves, “How can I showcase my wife and honor her? How can I support her so that other people see the beautiful woman that I see?

How can I bring out the best in her?” Don’t just love your wife; cherish her.

I agree with the dancer who said, “My job is to make the beautiful yet more beautiful.” I think that’s the job of every husband as well.

HOW TO TELL IF TEENAGER IS FAKING Q: How can I tell if our teenager is faking an illness to get out of school? He often complains of not feeling well on school day mornings, but interestingly enough, his symptoms usually disappear by midafternoon and rarely surface at all on weekends. Is it wrong of me to distrust him?

Danny Huerta, Vice President, Parenting and Youth: Many kids struggle with overwhelming stress and the anxiety of going to school. It may be that your son truly does not feel well because of this. (For example, our emotions affect our digestive system.) Consider taking him

Learn how to live before you learn how to make a living

to a doctor and/or a counselor who could help determine what might be contributing to these morning episodes. If a medical evaluation uncovers a specific diagnosis, come to an agreement about what should be done—including the parameters for going to school versus staying home.

If the problem doesn’t appear to be an ongoing physical illness, ask your son what he thinks about the night before school or on school day mornings. Discuss what is happening socially at school, in the neighborhood or at church. Ask questions with no obvious right or wrong answer (“Who do you like to hang out with?” or “What’s your least favorite class?” or “What causes you the most stress?”). This may provide opportunity to talk about things that influence how he is feeling emotionally and physically.

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with Jim Daly Armed with that information, there are several practical things you can do to help your son. Look at how you handle stress, and proactively model how to do so in healthy ways. Work with him to find and practice what best helps him to process anxiety, according to his personality and interests.

CONSIDER FOLLOWING A BROAD SET OF PRINCIPLES WHEN MANAGING MONEY

Q: My wife just got a new job with a substantially Also, acknowledge that life can be scary and also man- better salary, and I received a significant promotion. aged. Help your child feel heard and validated. Remind We’re empty-nesters and want to handle our increased him that you’re on his team and care deeply for him. Help income responsibly. (We haven’t always been the best financial decision makers in the past.) What should we him feel safe in sharing what troubles him. keep in mind?

Finally, set some positive goals together (attendance, Jim: This isn’t really a question about the best way to grades, etc.) and celebrate as those objectives are met. use your money. That’s a highly subjective issue that we Again, don’t be afraid to seek help as you go through this can’t possibly resolve for you. What you really want is a process. We can help you find a local counselor through broader set of principles. Financial expert Ron Blue sugour referral network; visit FocusOnTheFamily.com or call gests the following criteria-based model for making fiscal decisions: 1-800-232-6459.

• For people of faith—pray together about how to handle your money.

• Define your decision. What’s the question? Many times your decision statement will include such words as “choose,” “select” and “best.”

• Clarify your objectives. What are you trying to achieve?

What are the decision criteria?

• Assess the risk. What could go wrong here?

• Make the final decision.

• Test the decision.

This multistep matrix has a number of benefits. Perhaps the most important is its capacity for maximizing objectivity, minimizing bias and thus defusing emotion-based disagreements. If you discuss and apply it carefully, you will separate the relevant data from the trivial, provide direction for your thinking and set the stage for consensus as a household.

• Prioritize your objectives. What are the non-negotiables? What are the trade-offs?

Jim Daly is president of Focus on the Family, host of the Focus on the Family radio program, and a husband and father of two.

• Identify your alternatives.

• Evaluate your alternatives. What are the facts?

• Make a preliminary decision.

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Fight for Your Family

by Kenny McNatt

“Fight for your sons, fight for your daughters, fight for an afterthought. Fighting for your sons and daughters your wife...fight for your homes!” - Nehemiah means that you accept the responsibility to monitor what your children are watching on TV and viewing As we all watched the news this past month, our atten- online. Fighting for your home is being purposeful in tion was focused on the path of Hurricane Irma. I’m providing moments of family prayer and reading the sure we all had that moment of walking through our Bible to your children. home trying to decide if we should stay or go. We also had to think about how to protect what was most valu- It is very easy to give in to the cynicism of our day. We able to us. It was a surreal moment to say the least. It can expend tremendous amounts of mental energy talkwas a moment that was about perspective and priority. ing about the devaluing of the family in our culture and the difficulty of raising our children in a culture that It might sound sappy, but when all was said and done, I does not embrace Biblical values. was reminded that what I valued most were those I love and things that were given to me by them. My wife and my daughter are my treasure.

Or, you can walk through the “rooms” in your life and determine that you will protect what is most important to you.

Take time to gain a fresh perspective on what really matters. Don’t allow the pressure of attaining what lasts for a short time to undermine making an investment that will last long after you’re gone.

Today, “Fight for your sons, fight for your daughters, fight for your spouse, fight for your home!”

The Bible records a moment in the life of a man that made the decision to preserve something very important to himself and to his nation. His name was Nehemiah.

Nehemiah lived during a time in which cities were fortified by walls. The walls represented the strength of the city and they provided a sense of identity for the people. Repeated attacks on the city by bitter enemies left the walls in ruin and the people fled. Nehemiah was living a comfortable life in another country. He was gripped when he received word that his home was destroyed and that the walls of the city lay in ruin. In fact, he was so moved by the news that he decided, in spite of opposition and ridicule, to rebuild the walls around Jerusalem.

Family Matters

As he recruited workers, he also instructed them to be ready to defend against attack. It is during that time he made this statement, “Fight for your sons, fight for your daughters, fight for your wife...fight for your homes!”

Getting to the heart of what matters most.

For Nehemiah, it was a literal fight. While there are times you may have to literally fight for your family, there is a more subtle reality.

For instance, fighting for your family begins when you make uninterrupted time with them a priority and not

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The Internet: 2017’s Newest Brain?

pluggedin.com

by Kristin Smith

As a former high school English and Spanish teacher, I’ve seen the pros and the woes of technology in the classroom. I was never one of those teachers to bring down wrath for the mere sighting of a phone, but I have been known to confiscate a phone here and there for misuse. I mean, wouldn’t you love to be talking to your child, completely engaged, just to realize that they’re nodding and responding to their screen and not to you? It’s truly flattering, isn’t it?

Once, in the middle of taking a quiz on The Kite Runner, a student pulled out his phone… in the middle of a quiz! I walked over to the student and quietly took the phone so it wouldn’t cause a scene. A conversation followed that incident.

I’m sure you parents have had moments where you wanted to take that phone right out of your child’s hand. No. Questions. Asked.

It’s easy to see why phones can frustrate us, even when many of us feel

we couldn’t live without them. But when it comes to our children, how can we gauge whether they’re using their phones wisely, or misusing them? How can we know whether they’re counting on Siri to give them answers, or when they know the answers themselves?

Frankly, the line can sometimes be a bit blurry.

PhotoMath is a free app that many students now use to help navigate through the winding world of arithmetic.

An article from Forbes describes the app as a great way for students to see problems worked out, step by step. The app was designed to help make math more understandable to students, and it might give them the help they need that they might not be getting elsewhere.

But while the app can help students understand how to break down problems, it’s also notorious for its ability to help students cheat—even in the middle of an exam. In our microwave generation,

students want their answers as quickly as possible, and often times they will go to great lengths to get what they want.

Technology makes can make cheating oh-so easy.

But not all apps allow students to cheat.

One app in particular, Kahoot, is a great tool for parents to use with their kids, or for teachers to use with their students.

The app turns any boring lesson into a game-show: It allows teachers to plug in their own questions and answers, while students can use the Kahoot app on their own phones as a buzzer to answer questions. It’s like Jeopardy in your hands!

With the wide world of technology at the fingertips of most kids these days, I think it’s important to remember that technology is a tool. And just like any tool, we can use it well or we can abuse it. Encouraging your kids to think on their own, without the help of Siri, is obviously crucial, but using technology to advance your child’s academic success… well, what parent wouldn’t want that?

It’s exhausting to have to constantly monitor your children and their technological world, but making sure that your kids understand academic concepts without their phones is crucial. And, when appropriate, using technology to help them learn is great too.

Raising intelligent children in a generation where our phones can think for us will certainly be a challenge. But if we’ve fought wars, overcome depressions, and survived stock market crashes, I think we can handle cell phones… can’t we?

Kristin Smith is the most recent addition to the Plugged In team. Formerly a Spanish and English teacher, Kristin loves reading literature and eating authentic Mexican tacos. When she’s not writing or editing, she enjoys traveling the world with her husband, Eddy, and running through Colorado Springs’ Garden of the Gods.

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Savings Made Sweet

By Heather Brickell I don’t know about you, but I love to dine out with my family! Not only do I get the night off from cooking, but I also get out of doing the dishes!

Dining out with your family can be a fun and frugal experience when you know how to look for special offers and discounts. Here are some tips that will help you not to break the bank when dining out.

First of all, plan ahead! Don’t just get into the car and ask everyone where they want to eat. Planning ahead allows you to take a look at the restaurant menu online beforehand to see what kind of prices that they offer.

Secondly, see if the restaurants you frequent offer any type of online printable offers. Many times, restaurants will offer coupons for a FREE appetizer or dessert, or maybe “buy one get one free” entrees! Just sign up to receive emails from your favorite restaurants, and very quickly your inbox will be filled with money-saving offers! Some of my favorite restaurants that frequently send out coupons and money-saving offers include Smokey Bones, T.G.I.Friday’s, Chilis, Bob Evans and Bahama Breeze.

Check local magazines such as this one for money-saving coupons. And, don’t throw away those coupons that you receive in your mailbox! There may actually be some great money-saving offers in those ads.

Facebook is a wonderful place for promotional offers.

“Like” your favorite restaurant and they may offer anything from a Free dessert to “buy one get one free” entrees.

Outback Steakhouse recently gave away free steak dinner coupons for their new Wood Fired line!

Take advantage of “kids eat free” promotional offers that are available. This alone can be a big savings off of your bill, especially if you have several children!

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Share a meal with your spouse or child when dining out. The entrée portion sizes offered at many restaurants are usually enough for 2 people. If bread and salad are included this makes for a satisfying meal.

Lastly, instead of ordering soda or tea with your meal, what about ordering good old fashioned water? Soft drinks can really add to the price of what you thought was going to be a frugal meal.

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October 2017 • 41

October 2017 Events

For information on Halloween events, Fall events and Corn Mazes, visit our Family Fall Fun section on pages 24 - 27.

October 1-31 EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL The 2017 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival will be held from October 1 through November 13, 2017. Your Epcot admission is all that’s needed to participate in this popular event! www.disneyworld.disney.go.com October 1, 5 & 29 TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS HOME GAMES Come pack the house and cheer on your hometown Buccaneers as they have some great home matchups coming your way this October! The Bucs will host be hosting the New York Giants, the Carolina Panthers and the Super Bowl Champion New England Patriots. For ticket information visit www.buccaneers.com.

October 1 HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER’S STONE - IN CONCERT The Harry Potter film series is one of those once-in-alifetime cultural phenomena that continues to delight millions of fans around the world. The concert will feature The Florida Orchestra performing every note from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. Audiences will be able to

relive the magic of the film in high-definition on a giant screen while hearing the orchestra perform John Williams’ unforgettable score. www.strazcenter.org October 2 - 7 BE A CARING NEIGHBOR WEEK AT THE GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Celebrate Daniel Tiger’s appearance at the Glazer Children’s Museum. Bring Daniel’s most popular songs to life through crafts, cooking and more all week long.

And of course, come to Children’s Board of Hillsborough County Free Tuesday, with free admission from 12-7pm, to meet Daniel Tiger himself!. www.glazermuseum.org October 4 TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER: THE MAKING OF A MUSEUM EXHIBIT Get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the creation, construction and promotion of the History Center’s new Treasure Seekers: Conquistadors, Pirates & Shipwrecks gallery, scheduled to open in December. The History Center’s leadership team will walk you through the basics of exhibit design, artifact acquisition and display, and host a private tour of the new gallery. www.tampabayhistorycenter.org

October 4 TAMPA BAY ROWDIES VS. NEW YORK RED BULLS Rowdies fans! Here’s your chance to cheer on our Tampa Bay Rowdies and enjoy fun filled evening at Al Lang Stadium in St. Pete. www.rowdiessoccer.com October 6 - 8 JURASSIC QUEST: OUT OF EXTINCTION AT THE FLORIDA STATE FAIRGROUNDS

October 4 COOP’S CATCH FOR KIDS CHARITY FISHING TOURNAMENT Tampa Bay Lightning head coach Jon Cooper will host the second annual Coop’s Catch for Kids charity Jurassic Quest is the largest dinosaur event in North America! Our exhibit features: 80 animatronic life-size dinosaurs, walking dinosaur rides and animatronic dinosaur rides, fossil digs, paleontology, and fossil stations, science stations, cinema, dinosaur bounce houses, and bungee pulls, crafts, face painting, green screen photo, and dinosaur Jeopardy! and MUCH MORE! Plenty of activities for the Family! www.jurassicquest.com

Community Christian School of five oaks

7900 22nd Avenue North St. Petersburg

fishing tournament, presented by Heritage Insurance, benefitting the V Foundation and other local pediatric cancer initiatives, on Tuesday, October 3 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.. Coop’s Catch for Kids will launch from the Tampa Convention Center docks and will consist of a catch and release inshore grand slam tournament. www.amaliearena.com

Feather Sound Smiles

Accepting Grades

Dr Amir Daoud, DDS BDS

Pre-K – 12 OPEN ENROLLMENT

Restorative, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry

Providing an individualized self paced program allowing every student to succeed

CALL NOW 727-954-8856 or visit

ccschool.com McKay, Step Up For Students, and Private Scholarships available

42 • October 2017

2325 Ulmerton Rd Ste 27 Clearwater FL 33762

727-561-0800

www.feathersoundsmiles.com Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

October 6 FIRST FRIDAY AT HENRY B. PLANT MUSEUM The Museum will be open with free admission from 5 – 7 PM. Visitors are encouraged to explore the nation’s only Victorian railroad resort hotel museum, enjoy live music on the veranda, and share a treat with friends at our tastings table. A docent-led tour of the Museum will begin at 5:15 PM. www.plantmuseum.com October 6 TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING VS. FLORIDA PANTHERS SEASON OPENER The Lightning open the 2017-18 campaign with their first game of the season against the Florida Panthers at AMALIE Arena. Also, the Lightning will celebrate the franchise’s 25th anniversary throughout the 2017-18 season - you will not want to miss it! www.amaliearena.com October 7 SILLY SAM THE MUSIC MAN AT THE STRAZ Silly Sam brings his magical treasure of wind instruments, strings, percussion and electronics for kids to connect with the wonder of sound. Children love Silly Sam’s wacky style — even adults can’t help but fall into Silly Sam’s world of music-making. www.strazcenter.org October 7, 21 DILLYDALLY WITH DALI Children can discover the creative world of Dali through games, puzzles and arts + crafts activities which educate and encourage family interaction. Dillydally with Dali takes place under the direction of the museum’s Family Programs Coordinator in the 1st floor Education Classroom. www.thedali.org October 7, 21 MFA MAKE & TAKE SATURDAYS Create your own masterpiece inspired by works in the collection and special exhibitions. Supplies are included.

FREE with Museum admission. No registration necessary.

Recommended for ages five and older, but entire families are encouraged to participate. www.mfastpete.org October 8 GREAT CONNECTIONS AT GREAT EXPLORATIONS Great Connections is a monthly program just for children with special needs and their families. The second Sunday of the month, Great Explorations will close to the general public from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., will modify lights and sounds, and will provide a “cool down” room for families who need to take a break. www.greatex.org October 8 & 22 AVANT-GARDENERS AT THE DALI Come explore The Dali Museum’s Avant-Garden and learn how Dali was inspired by nature. Little AvantGardeners (12 and under) will take a focused tour of our garden, exploring new themes each week followed by an art activity in our classroom. We recommend wearing comfortable play clothes-you might get a little messy! www.thedali.org October 9, 12, 14, 21, 26 & 28 TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING HOME GAMES Catch the Tampa Bay Lightning as the Lightning’s 25th season gets into full swing. Bring the Thunder and come cheer on your hometown Bolts as they take on the Capitals, Penguins, Blues, Red Wings and the Ducks! www.amaliearena.com October 13 THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA: SWING IS THE THING AT THE STRAZ Jump ‘n’ jive from the 1940s right into the jukebox tunes of the ‘50s and ‘60s with hits like Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy and Rock Around the Clock. Featuring dancers, vocalists and clarinet sensation Dave Bennett, under the baton of Jeff Tyzik. www.strazcenter.org

k c o l n U the Happy Your KEY coach to unlock your happy!

Personal Happiness Coach, Speaker, Laughter facilitator

Darlene M. Ramirez 727-771-5714 UnlockTheHappy.com

October 14 CHEERS TO 30 YEARS AT GREAT EXPLORATIONS Please join us in celebrating Great Exploration’s 30th birthday! While it is the museum’s biggest fundraiser of the year and a formal birthday party, it is not your typical black-tie affair. This gala will have a unique Great-Ex spin with a playful, kid twist. Enjoy gourmet children’s party-inspired food, birthday cocktails, aerialists, live performances, auctions, chance drawings and more. www.greatex.org October 14 6TH ANNUAL FALL STAMPEDE Due to hurricane Irma, the 6th Annual Fall Stampede presented by Chick-fil-A is MOOving to greener pastures!

The race which is typically held every September in acknowledgment of Childhood cancer, has been moved to Saturday, October 14. The festivities will begin 6:30 AM at Tampa Bay Downs. The event includes a 5K Run, 1 Mile Family Fun Run/Walk, a Mascot Race, photo opportunities with the Chick-fil-A cows, and a post-race party in the Family Fun Zone including Chick-fil-A food, games, and great prizes. www.childrenscancercenter.org October 14 USF BULLS HOMECOMING WEEKEND Come cheer on your USF Bulls as they take on conference rival Cincinnati at Raymond James Stadium. www.gousfbulls.com

Get Spotted Advertise in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper.

Certified Happiness Coach Darlene specializes in coaching after a loss, overcoming self-doubt, and unlocking what makes you happy. Webinars, private sessions, speaking services, virtual book clubs and more. Learn to Live Life Happy. www.gulfcoastfamily.org

October 13 JULIE SCARDINA PRESENTS MISSION: WILDLIFE AT THE TAMPA THEATRE Wildlife Ambassador Julie Scardina has a passion for wildlife and wild places rivaled only by her commitment to showing others how to make a difference for the world we share. Join Julie for a night of furry, feathered, and creepy fun as the historic Tampa Theatre welcomes her live show, Julie Scardina Presents MISSION: WILDLIFE. www.tampatheatre.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

To advertise, call

727-612-0783

October 2017 • 43

October 14, 21, 28 PAINT WITH ME AT BUSCH GARDENS Start your Saturday morning artistically with an exclusive step-by-step painting session during Sesame Street Safari of Fun Kids’ Weekends. Celebrate wildlife during a one-ofa-kind instructed canvas painting session. Starting on Oct. 14, from 10 to 11:30 a.m., parents and kids can meet their favorite Sesame Street friends followed by a 45-minute instructor-led painting session. www.buschgardens.com October 14 - 15 28TH ANNUAL HYDE PARK VILLAGE ART FAIR The brick-lined streets of historic Hyde Park will once again come alive this October with eye-popping art during the 28th Annual Hyde Park Village Art Fair. Residents and visitors are invited to stroll amidst life-size sculptures, spectacular paintings, one-of-a-kind jewelry, photography, ceramics and more from the 150 exhibitors on showcase during the free event. www.artfestival.com October 18 SMARTLY DRESSED FASHION SHOW & LUNCHEON The Stuart Society’s annual Smartly Dressed Fashion Show and Luncheon benefiting the Museum of Fine Arts St. Petersburg is up and running. Dillard’s will be the host sponsor this year with guest designers Badgley Mischka.

The show will take place in The Grand Ballroom of The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort and Golf Club. www.mfastpete.org

October 19-22 CLEARWATER JAZZ HOLIDAY The Clearwater Jazz Holiday is a four-day and four-night, world-class, live, music festival, enjoyed by over 35,000 people the third week of every October and now in its 38th year. The music festival has evolved from a series of concerts on the back of a flatbed truck and at venues around Clearwater into an annual, international, music festival that draws tens of thousands of visitors each year to beautiful Coachman Park in Clearwater, against the backdrop of the Gulf of Mexico, warm breezes, brilliant sunsets, and one of the world’s greatest beaches. The festival features a combination of legendary and relevant musical artists and a gathering of an amazingly diverse fan base. www.clearwaterjazz.com

October 20 - 22 6TH ANNUAL CLEARWATER BEACH CHALK ART FESTIVAL This fun and FREE event has been made possible through the collaboration of the Beach Chambers Chalk Art Festival Committee & community minded art lovers alike. For three days, over 40 talented chalk artists will transform the sidewalks of beachwalk on South Clearwater Beach into spectacular larger-thanlife-canvases, allowing the public to get a rare glimpse into the way art is produced in all stages of progress.

Each year, the public has the opportunity to choose their favorite piece of artwork by voting for the “People’s Choice Award,” which is announced by Twelve Noon on the 3rd and last day of the event. www.clearwaterbeachchalkwalk.com

Treat the Cell, Heal the Body A Step Beyond Alternative Medicine Our goal is to treat each patient with specific remedies custom designed to attain optimal health on a cellular level.

We endeavor to treat the root of a health issue, rather than just treat the symptoms. We believe that optimizing cellular nutrition and function is the best path to a healthier you.

John Young, MD

Young Foundational Health Center

7241 Bryan Dairy Road, Largo, Florida 33777 Office: 727-545-4600 Fax: 727-545-4611 foundationalhealth@tampabay.rr.com www.foundationalhealthcenter.org 44 • October 2017

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

October 20 - 21 7TH ANNUAL ST. PETERSBURG SCIENCE FESTIVAL The St. Petersburg Science Festival, is a regional celebration where families and the public can explore the wonders of hands-on science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). The festival will be held along the waterfront campus of the University of South Florida St. Petersburg. The event is held in conjunction with MarineQuest, the annual open house of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Fish and Wildlife Research Institute. www.stpetescifest.org October 21 - 23 THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA: FREE POPS IN THE PARK You bring the date – or the whole family! – and the Florida Orchestra will provide the lively symphonic music, for FREE. TFO is also collecting canned goods for Tampa Bay Harvest. Saturday’s concert will be held at the Vinoy Park in St. Pete, Sunday’s concert will be held in Tampa at the River Tower Park and Monday’s concert will be held at Coachman Park in Clearwater. www.floridaorchestra.org

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

October 21 LATE-NIGHT, LIGHTS-OFF PARANORMAL INVESTIGATION In 1965, projectionist Foster “Fink” Finley died after 35 years of service to his beloved Tampa Theatre.

Strange occurrences have been reported in and around the projection booth ever since. This fun four-hour experience also includes catered appetizers and desserts, complimentary popcorn and soft drinks, and demonstrations of professional paranormal investigative equipment. It will truly be a once-in-a-lifetime experience guaranteed to make you see Tampa’s majestic movie palace in a different light. www.tampatheatre.org October 28 THE STRAZ PRESENTS PJ MASKS LIVE: TIME TO BE A HERO It’s time to be a hero! PJ Masks LIVE! is a super-heroic, brand-new live show featuring Catboy, Owlette and Gecko leaping, flipping and climbing as they try to save the day from sneaky villains Romeo, Night Ninja and Luna Girl.

Can they do it? Leaping lizards, fluttering feathers — this could be a CAT-tastrophe or it could be the coolest thing

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

PJ Masks fans have ever seen. With your favorite music plus brand new songs you’ve never heard before, this live action version of the crazy popular TV show puts kids in the superhero spotlight. www.strazcenter.org October 28 THE TAMPA PIG JIG The Tampa Pig Jig is an annual fundraiser event hosted on downtown Tampa’s beautiful waterfront featuring live music, great food, a BBQ competition, drinks and games.

The event benefits the NephCure Kidney International, the only non-profit organization committed to supporting research, improving treatment and finding a cure for the debilitating kidney disease, FSGS (Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis) and Nephrotic Syndrome. Over the past 6 years, the Tampa Pig Jig has raised over $2,000,000 with all proceeds benefiting NephCure. www.tampapigjig.com

Have an Event?

Email submissions to events@gulfcoastfamily.org for consideration or visit our online calendar at gulfcoastfamily.org.

October 2017 • 45

The Gulf Coast Family Weekender

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

SUNDAY

1

Clearwater Super Boat National Championship Festival: Race Day www.clearwatersuperboat.com

Select Nights in October

www.disneyworld.disney.go.com Dress up for this “not-so-scary” occasion where all kinds of candies and sweets are just waiting for you to find.

6 13

It wouldn’t be Halloween without trick-or-treats! Get your fill of Halloween candies, snacks and treats galore!

EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival www.disneyworld.disney.go.com

Shopkins Live!

Ruth Eckerd Hall www.rutheckerdhall.com The #1 kids toy in North America is live and on stage! Grab your besties and check out Shopkins Live! Shop It Up! Check ya later!

20

27

Artists use the pavement as their canvas to create breathtaking traditional and 3D chalk paintings.

www.clearwaterbeachchalkwalk.com

www.johnspass.com The country’s best seafood festival, including Music, Entertainment and great times, all free on sunny Madeira Beach, Florida.

46 • October 2017

7

14

Clearwater Marine Aquarium www.seewinter.com USF Bulls Football vs Cincinnati Bearcats Raymond James Stadium

Be there to watch these mad machines manned by superb driver and throttlemen tackle choppy gulf waters at mind blowing speeds of nearly 200 mph!

8

Sesame Street Safari of Fun Halloween: Monsters & Fairies Busch Gardens www.buschgardens.com

15

Celebrate Halloween with Elmo, Abby, Grover and all your favorite Sesame Street friends!

Show off your costume while you trick-or-treat, make crafts, and more.

Florida Orchestra Pops: Swing is the Thing Ruth Eckerd Hall www.rutheckerdhall.com Jump ‘n’ jive from the 1940s right into the jukebox tunes of the ‘50s and ‘60s. Hits like Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, Tuxedo Junction and Rock Around the Clock come to life with dancers, vocalists and virtuoso clarinet sensation Dave Bennett.

Cheer on the USF Bulls as they take on the Cincinnati Bearcats at Raymond James Stadium.

Go Bulls!

21

Bolt Run Amalie Arena www.nhl.com/lightning

28

Tampa Pig Jig Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park www.tampapigjig.com

22 29

Big Shot Volleyball Tournament Clearwater Beach www.eevb.net

EEVB has grown into the largest beach volleyball series in the country.

The highest level in the tournaments, the Open Division, funnels players into the Pro Beach Volleyball Tour.

www.buccaneers.com

Enjoy great food, live music, games and a BBQ competition.

The event benefits NephCure Kidney International, committed to finding a cure for FSGS (Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis) and Nephrotic Syndrome.

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

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To advertise, call 727-612-0783

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October 2017 • 47

“A” Schools

TAMPA’S NEWEST CHARTER SCHOOL 4903 Ehrlich Rd, Tampa, FL 33624

K-2 Grade

Superior Technology

The Best … and Getting Better!

Managed by

Apply Now at www.platoacademy.net

Music & Arts

Managed by :

Organized Sports

Caring Teachers

The school will add a grade a year in subsequent years