Gulf Coast Family - September 2018

September 2018 Vol. 11 Issue 9

30 Day Back to School Challenge Focus on the Family page 38

Keeping Grandparents Close page 36

page 31

Calendar of Events page 44

Dungy Diaries page 10

M a k i n g Caring s u C o o i n g t a Family Night Out p. 12

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2 • September 2018

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

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 © Gulf Coast Family Publications 2018

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.

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.

“Sometimes superheroes reside in the hearts of small children fighting big battles.”

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September 2018 • 3

September 2018

36

CS Education 26 PSpotlight

Keeping Grandparents Close

to Parent 6 Parent

by Jennifer Beck

for Family Meals 16 5byRules iMom.com

September We 7 This Recommend That You…

Cancer Awareness 26 PCS Education Spotlight 17 Childhood Month

by Pinellas County Schools Gold Ribbon Heroes

8 Reader Photos of the Month Immunity – Suing 18 Sovereign Things to Remember When the State in Florida 10 3Choosing Friends

by Tony Dungy, AllProDad.com

12 Family Night Out Coupons 14 Kids in the Kitchen Snacks For Kids 15 Healthy That Don't Taste Healthy

by Chris Reynolds

19 Heart Gallery Healthy Smile 20 The

by Dr. Nick Reynolds Spotlight 22 Species

by ZooTampa at Lowry Park Tropical Garden 23 The

by Jené VanButsel

Making 24 CareFest: Caring Contagious

Coast Family 28 Gulf School Guide Basic Training: 30 September Show Affection to Your Kids

by AllProDad.com

Day Back to School 31 30 Challenge!

by AllProDad.com

To and From School 32 Safety

by All Children's Hospital

34 Building Community!

Blocks for the Family: 35 Building Let's Make a Deal – Not! by iMom.com

Grandparents Close 36 Keeping

by Dr. James Dobson

37 It’s Great to Create! on the Family 38 Focus

by Jim Daly Social Media Bullying 41 When Turns Uglier

by Bob Waliszewski, PluggedIn.com

42 September Fun Facts 43 Movie Night 44 September 2018 Events 47 Weekender

“There is SO much to celebrate!”

Saturday September 8th

8

Reader Photos of the Month

4 • September 2018

Olivia

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***Nourishing snacks are provided by the federal government’s After School Snack Program and prepared to federal standards by a local food vendor. In accordance with Federal and U.S. Department of Agriculture Policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.

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September 2018 • 5

You know, you can “ touch a stick of dynamite

And the turtles, otters, and even that occasional alligator are fun to watch (provided the alligator stays in the water at least).

Parent to Parent Living on a small lake in Florida, wildlife is fairly plentiful in our backyard. And most of it is welcome. We like to watch all of the different types of birds. The kids enjoy feeding the ducks.

The other reptiles, while not quite “welcome”, aren’t exactly unwelcome either. We get a lot of lizards, and a few black racer snakes now and then. Both are harmless to people, and since they eat bugs, we all just let them be. Everyone except David and the dogs, that is. David thinks catching black racers is a really fun challenge, and the dogs feel the same way about the lizards. But no one in the family seems to have any significant affection for the lizards or the snakes.

So the reaction when my husband killed a snake a few weeks ago was a little surprising. He had been working outside and had the garage door open for several hours. Late in the afternoon, he went into the garage and found a snake there. And this was not one of those harmless black racers—he would have just chased it out of the garage if that were the case. This was a water moccasin. So he killed it… the venomous snake… that was in our garage.

Well assuming that the snake had come from the lake, and wanting to make sure that the kids were careful when they went outside, he told them about it. And you would have thought that he had killed

but if you touch a venomous snake it’ll turn around and bite you and kill you so fast it’s not even funny.

” – Steve Irwin

one of the family pets! “He just wanted to cool off!”, “You’re so mean!”, “I feel so bad for that poor snake’s family!”, and many more accusations were thrown at him for several days after the incident.

The criticism finally faded a little after Rodney pulled up some online pictures of what water moccasin bites do to people (and pets). And he did agree that next time, he will call animal control and attempt to relocate the snake without harming it.

Well, I for one, hope that there isn’t a “next time.”

And if there is, there is a high probability that the kids won’t find out about it!

Until next time,

Jennifer

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6 • September 2018

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This September we recommend that you…

READ IT

The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers by Maxwell King Fred Rogers was an enormously influential figure in the history of television and in the lives of tens of millions of children. As the creator and star of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, he was a champion of compassion, equality, and kindness. Rogers was fiercely devoted to children and to taking their fears, concerns, and questions about the world seriously. The Good Neighbor, the first full-length biography of Fred Rogers, tells the story of this utterly unique and enduring American icon.

SEE IT

HEAR IT

Rock the Universe Universal Orlando Resort, September 7–8

Among Aretha Franklin’s many albums, Amazing Grace has long been considered one of her high-water marks, since it captured her glorious return to her gospel roots. This rerelease of that wonderful album contains not only the original 14 songs, but an additional 15 gospel songs which offers listeners a more dynamic and more personal experience.

EXPERIENCE IT 7th Annual Chick-fil-a Fall Stampede Sept. 8, Curtis Hixon Park Okay, so it may not be the running of the bulls in Pamplona, but we think it’s the next best thing!

Now’s your chance to run with the Chick-fil-a Cows in a chip-timed 5k and 1 mile walk. AND it benefits the Children’s Cancer Center. There will be music, food, and all sorts of activities for the whole family. Both events start and finish at the beautiful Curtis Hixon Park. For full details visit www.childrenscancercenter.org.

Experience two nights of powerful music from today's most popular Christian artists at Universal Studios Florida. Lift your hands and let your heart soar with amazing artists including Casting Crowns, Jesus Culture, TobyMac and for KING & COUNTRY. Plus, enjoy a moving Candlelighting Ceremony on Saturday and the FanZone presented by Coca-Cola.

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September 2018 • 7

Reader

PH TOs {of the month}

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.

Faith With a butterfly kiss and a ladybug hug, sleep tight little one like a bug in a rug.

Elijah Shine like a star, dream like a

Nifton

child, fly like a bird!

Katie and Charlie I smile because you’re my Sister – I laugh Cast away your troubles – Go Fishin’ because there is nothing you can do about it.

8 • September 2018

Emma People who love to eat are always the best people.

Ella

R” means Mom did you know that “ROA I LOVE YOU in Dinosaur?

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

What is the NAMI Basics Education Program?

NAMI Basics is a free, six-session program designed for parents and other family caregivers of children and adolescents with emo�onal and behavioral difficul�es. NAMI Basics helps parents and other family caregivers of children to understand the illnesses that are causing those behavioral difficul�es, and the cri�cal role families play in the treatment of those illnesses. The program is taught by trained teachers who are also the parents or family caregivers of individuals who experienced emo�onal or behavioral difficul�es prior to age 13.

NAMI Pinellas County FL, Inc. the local organiza�on of the Na�onal Alliance on Mental Illness, will offer its NAMI Basics Educa�on Program for the fall beginning September 12th through October 24th, with a break October 3rd. It will be held on Wednesday evenings from 6-8:30pm at Great Explora�ons Children’s Museum 1925 4th St N, St Petersburg, FL 33704. Limited spaces are available for childcare children ages 5-13 and includes a pizza dinner. Register in advance to secure your spot!

Participant Perspectives “This is such a great step by step program that walks parents every step of the way. It is as if you are holding their hand through it all.”

“The course is inclusive of almost all aspects of family and child resources. I could have spent a life�me ge�ng all this informa�on on my own. I feel supported, strong and ready to go forward.”

“NAMI Basics bridges the gap. It provides help that can’t be found in a doctor’s office.”

Contact us to register for this NAMI Basics class!

Sarah Miller NAMI Pinellas County FL, Inc. PO Box 12773 St. Petersburg, FL 33733 727-826-0807 sdmiller@nami-pinellas.org www.gulfcoastfamily.org

About NAMI

NAMI, the Na�onal Alliance on Mental Illness, is the na�on’s largest grassroots mental health organiza�on dedicated to building be�er lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. NAMI Pinellas County is an affiliate of NAMI Florida. NAMI Pinellas County and dedicated volunteer members and leaders work �relessly to raise awareness and provide essen�al educa�on, advocacy and support group programs for people in our community living with mental illness and their loved ones.

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

September 2018 • 9

1. Choose Friends Who Exhibit Good Character

by Tony Dungy

DUNGY DIARIES

The people your kids spend time with will have a big influence on them. It’s important to teach them what to look for. These are principals I think are essential.

Choose your friends wisely. Choose them for the sake of friendship. It seems like such an obvious statement, but my parents used to say it to us all the time. Don’t choose friends because they are popular, or because they are good-looking, or because they are rich or athletic. Choose your friends wisely because you enjoy them and because they are good people.

Choose your friends based on their values, not their status in society. Within our extended family, I had a number of uncles who worked very different jobs.

One was a high-ranking member of law enforcement, another was an autoworker, and another was a baker. It never occurred to me that these positions might carry value; to me, each of them was my uncle –they all loved me and looked out for me, and I cared for them all. Their value, for me and others who knew them, was not determined by their job titles but by the men they were twenty-four hours a day, whether working at their jobs, or hanging out at home, or doing something else in their communities.

Remember, friendship runs in two ways. Too often, we evaluate a friendship based on the way it benefits us. But lasting friendships are formed when we can cause those benefits to flow toward someone else. So here is a question for you, what benefits do you bring to your friendships? We seem so quick to categorize others, so quick to determine people’s worth based on what they can do for us, what they drive or wear, or what their occupation is. Choose your friends for the sake of friendship – their friendship to you, and more importantly, your friendship to them. Here are 3 things to teach kids about choosing friends.

• Learn to Ice Skate • Daily Public Skating • Learn to Play Hockey • Birthday Parties • Group Events •

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10 • September 2018

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Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

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2. Choose Friends Who Are Dependable Choose friends who will stand by and guide you when you need it. Friends who put your interests before their own. Number one on my list of those friends is my bride of more years than she might care to remember – Lauren. Hers has been a voice of encouragement, love, character, and godly wisdom for well beyond the years of our marriage. In fact, that is one of the things that attracted me to her. Her voice has always carried messages of importance, pointing me toward what is right and what is in my best interest. Those messages have shaped my character amid the lure and glamour of a world that is constantly trying to make me detour from the path that God has set before me.

3. Choose Friends Who Give Wise Counsel There are other voices of wisdom in my life as well, friends whose counsel I often seek before making the really important decisions of my life. People who see the same direction for my life that I see— God’s direction. I also have friends who will correct and admonish me when it’s necessary. Too many of us listen to the voices of the crowd, even when we know better. Often, we do this simply because there are many voices and they are the loudest: the voices of ambition, power, wealth, revenge, greed, pleasure, self-centeredness, and appeasement. But even while all these voices bombard us, we need to learn to listen to the quiet voices consistently speaking the truth.

Those voices come from our wives or our parents or our close friends, those people who have been with us in the valleys and on the mountaintops of our journeys.

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September 2018 • 11

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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12 • September 2018

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with any other special, Please present coupon when ordering. Not valid 10-31-18. Limited to one Discount, promotion or coupon. Enjoy through locations in Pinellas y’s Coupon per household. Good at participating Sonn GCF and Hillsborough Counties Only.

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September 2018 • 13

in the kitchen

Parents, not all tasty recipes are time-consuming.

This fast fudge recipe proves it! These peanut butter fudgy footballs can be stirred up in minutes and gobbled up in seconds. This recipe is sure to become a tasty tradition for our family! We hope you enjoy it also — especially whenever you need a quick chocolate treat with a peanut butter twist.

Football Fudge • ¼ cup butter • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder • 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon milk • ¼ cup creamy peanut butter • White gel frosting or melted white chocolate

1. Melt butter in a microwave-safe mixing bowl on high for 30 to 45 seconds.

2. Add the remaining ingredients in order, mixing well after each addition.

3. Scoop out rounded tablespoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with wax paper.

Shape into ovals and press down slightly.

4. Refrigerate for one hour. Use frosting or melted chocolate to pipe stitching onto footballs.

Cool Kids Cook

$ $$$$ $$$ $$ $ $ $$$$ $$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$$$ $$$ $$$ $$$ $$$ $$$$ $$$ $ $ $ $ $$$$ $$$$ $$$$ $$$$ $$$$ $$$$ $$$$ $ $ $$$$some $ $$$$ $$$ $$$ $$$ $ $$ $$$$$Save $ $ $ $$$$ $$$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$$$ $$$ $$$ $$$ $$$ $$$$ $$ $$$$$$ $$$$$ $$$$$ $$$$$ $$$$$ $$ $$$$$$ $$$$$ $$$$$ $$$$$ $$ $$$$$$ $$$$$ $$$$$ Go with $$ $$$$$$ $$$$$ $$ $$$$$$ $$

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Healthy Snacks For Kids That Don’t Taste Healthy Does it sometimes feel like getting your child to eat nutritious snacks is impossible? With the right foods and recipes, you can create healthy snacks for kids that are so tasty, your kids won’t even realize they’re eating something good for them. “Getting kids to eat healthy foods is all about rethinking the ingredients,” says Laura Fuentes, creator of kid-friendly recipe site MoMables and author of “The Best Homemade Kids’ Snacks on the Planet.” The trick?

Use healthy ingredients, but prepare them in a kid-friendly way. “Instead of steamed broccoli for example, put broccoli on a pizza,” Fuentes explains.

With this in mind, whip up some of these healthy good-for-you snacks that taste so good, your kids won’t even realize they’re good for them — and remember the key to getting kids to eat healthy is to continually offer wise snacking choices!

1. Freeze Healthy Popsicles Popsicles seem like a treat, but they can actually be healthy when you make them at home with fresh fruits and yogurt. Invest in some freezer molds and get creative with fruits. Recipes like these chocolate avocado popsicles from Momables are easy to make and taste great, and they’re filled with healthy antioxidant-rich ingredients.

2. Make Snacktime Pop

Popcorn is a delicious, whole grain snack that kids love to customize! Skip the preservative-laden microwave variety and pop your own in just a few minutes with a popcorn maker or on the stove, then let kids add their own toppings and mix-ins, such as Parmesan cheese, dried cranberries or dried seasonings.

3. Offer Fresh Fruit

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5. Start Dipping

Store-bought dips like hummus and guacamole make a protein-rich snack that will keep kids fuller longer and less likely to be nibbling constantly. Kids love to dip and tasty dips make a great way to sneak in vegetables. Offer veggies such as carrot sticks to dip into the hummus or sliced cucumber to dunk into guacamole.

6. Power Up with Smoothies

Smoothies offer a tasty way to sneak in fruits and vegetables your picky eater might not otherwise try. When made at home, smoothies can be filled with fresh fruits and dark leafy greens. Make your own “milkshake” with frozen fruits and veggies to get your kids slurping up vitamins in no time. www.gulfcoastfamily.org

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September 2018 • 15

for a family dinner, I find alternatives like frozen entrees or take out baked chicken. When I do tackle meats and poultry, I keep it simple and remind myself that the priority is eating together as a family.

3. Give thanks.

“Mom!” my daughter hollers as she impatiently waits for the rest of the family to join her at the dinner table. “I’m hungry! Can I start?” As much as you are able, begin your meal with a prayer of thanks after you’re all seated. It doesn’t have to be a long prayer, and it’s nice to let your kids take turns giving thanks too. A pre-meal prayer sets a peaceful tone and settles everyone down. If formal prayers aren’t your style, go around and say what you’re thankful for.

5 R ULES

For Family Meals As I fixed dinner the other night for my husband and children, I was so pleased that we would be eating together as a family. “Yes!” I thought. “Score one for mom.” In the middle of a busy week, victory was in sight—sitting down and enjoying our time together.

Unfortunately, within minutes of taking the first bite I broke one of the five rules for eating together as a family—I allowed the conversation to veer into controversial territory.

My son and I started discussing the consequences he had incurred because he hadn’t followed the after school homework rules he’d agreed to. Faster than you can say, eat your peas, please, the mood was broken.

So avoid my failure during family meals and follow these five rules for eating together as a family.

4. Go old school.

IMOM.COM 1. Keep controversy at bay

The usually taboo topics of politics and religion are actually great topics for family dinners. What’s not okay is bringing up tension-filled family subjects like bills, school trouble, or problems with how your kids are doing their chores or how they’re treating their siblings.

You’ll also want to avoid constantly correcting your child’s meal time behavior. If you do have a manners-challenged child like I do, give them a pep talk before you sit down to dinner. “Josh, if you want to get free time after dinner, you’ll need to have good manners while we’re eating. I’ll give you one warning, and that’s it. Okay?”

2. Choose simple foods over stress.

Meat preparation freezes me in my tracks — trying to decide what to do with a shoulder of beef, a leg of lamb, or a veal cutlet overwhelms me, but side dishes are no problem.

So instead of letting my main dish dread derail my plans

What’s one thing you should keep far from your family meal? Electronics. All phones, tablets, and laptops should be out of view of you and your family. Why? Research shows that when your phone is in sight, you are distracted from the task at hand, in this case, focusing on your family. How’s this for sobering findings: keeping your cell phone out blocks “interpersonal closeness and trust” and decreases the amount of empathy you feel for the people surrounding you.

5. Talk and listen.

The family meal table is not a lectern. In other words, save the lectures for later. Sure, you can give your opinions, but don’t drone on and on or your kids will tune you out. You’ll also want to make sure that all of your children get a chance to talk. One of my children is a scene-stealer. There’s nothing he enjoys more than hogging the spotlight during family gatherings. So we have to remind him to let his sister talk too, and to listen to her when she does.

Also, keep some conversation starters handy. We have lots for you to choose from. Just visit imom.com and print out the ones you like from our TALK Conversation Starters.

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Childhood Cancer

Awareness Month Gold Ribbon Heroes: Why Gold Ribbon Heroes Matter For many children diagnosed with childhood cancer, the prognosis now is significantly better than it was only 40 years ago; in fact, more than 80% of children with cancer will now survive five years and even longer, as compared Gold Ribbon Heroes LRto a fiveyear survival rate of only 58% in the mid-1970s. Yet for the children who are struggling to be one of those 80%, the road is always difficult, often painful, and never straight and narrow. Luckily, these children don’t have to travel the road to survival by themselves. For as strong and as courageous as these children are, they are surrounding by loving, dedicated individuals who every day find the strength, wisdom, and commitment to help cancer’s youngest warriors on their journey, wherever it may lead. These individuals play a critical role in making the lives of children and families impacted by this terrible disease just a little bit easier.

Through the American Childhood Cancer Organization’s Gold Ribbon Hero Program, the ACCO seeks to celebrate as many of these important individuals as it can, to show the world just how important they are in helping and supporting cancer’s youngest and strongest warriors.

Anyone can be a Gold Ribbons Hero. A Gold Ribbon Hero may be the child who astounds us with strength and perseverance, a parent who continues to show courage and bravery even when their heart is breaking, a medical practitioner who cares so deeply about each and every patient, or a researcher who continues to persevere in the ongoing search for the next miracle cure. These individuals are an inspiration and a positive example for everyone in the childhood cancer community and beyond.

How Can You Help Raise Awareness This September?

Families, caregivers, charities and research groups across the United States observe September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. In the U.S., 15,780 children under the age of 21 are diagnosed with cancer every year; approximately ¼ of them will not survive the disease. A diagnosis turns the lives of the entire family upside down. The objective of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is to put a spotlight on the types of cancer that largely affect children, survivorship issues, and — importantly — to help raise funds for research and family support.

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MSSPP September 2018 • 17

Sovereign Immunity – Suing the State in Florida

Centuries ago, during the British ruling monarchy, the king and queen were generally immune from any liability and could not be sued. Most modern laws have eliminated at least some portion of this old philosophy, and now allow for at least some liability to be placed on ruling institutions and agencies. In other words, people can sue the government, but there are specific laws that lay out the rules you must follow if you decide to sue the government.

In Florida, these rules are found in Florida Statute 768.28. Whether suing a police officer for causing an automobile accident injury, suing a school a school for not providing proper security for a student for a child injured at school, or suing a city for a sidewalk in disrepair that causes someone to trip and sustain injury, each of these lawsuits must strictly comply with the provisions in Florida Statute 768.28. Failure to follow these “sovereign immunity” laws can result in a lawsuit being completely dismissed.

The Florida law begins by saying that all state agencies or subdivisions waive their sovereign immunity, but anyone who sues a state agency for negligence must follow all the rules outlined in this statute. There are a number of slight differences between suing a private

18 • September 2018

citizen or business, and suing a Florida governmental agency, however, and failure to know these differences can doom a lawsuit.

As you will see, many of these rules make filing suit against a Florida state agency more difficult and less financially rewarding than if you were suing a private individual or private company.

Chris Reynolds

Another rule is that governmental agencies are generally only liable up to $200,000 per incident or occurrence that gave rise to the lawsuit. Of course, a state agency may purchase insurance in an amount greater than $200,000, but the agency is generally not liable for amounts greater than $200,000. Like many of these sovereign immunity laws, there are some exceptions to this $200,000 cap.

Prior to filing a lawsuit against a governmental agency, the claimant must send a notice to the Florida Department of Financial Services within 3 years after the incident that is the basis for the lawsuit occurs. This notice must include basic facts about the incident.

For example, a general negligence lawsuit has a 4-year statute of limitations. So, if someone is injured due to the negligence of another person, the injured person only has 4 years to sue the at-fault person. If a lawsuit is not filed within 4 years, the injured person generally has lost their ability to sue the at-fault person. However, when filing suit against a state agency, the person must file suit within 3 years.

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Further, a person may only file a lawsuit after either the state denies the claim. If the Department of Financial Services does not respond to the notice within 6 months, this is considered a denial that will allow a person to file a lawsuit.

Further, in Florida, attorneys may generally charge contingency fees of 33 1/3% in pre-suit claims, and up to 40% for cases in suit. However, for claims against state agencies, attorneys are limited to a contingency fee of 25%.

These are just some of the rules everyone must follow when suing a Florida state agency. Though they may seem minor, you can see how each of these rules helps the state by reducing the number of cases that are brought against the state, and limiting the financial exposure of the state.

If you or a loved one have sustained injury due to the negligence of a Florida state agency, please contact an experienced trial attorney to discuss your options.

Mr. Reynolds hails from St. Petersburg, graduated from Northside Christian High School, Eckerd College, and Stetson University College of Law. He lives in Pinellas with his wife and three boys, all of whom attend Keswick Christian School. Mr. Reynolds also has parents living in Pinellas County and a sister who recently returned from overseas as a Christian missionary.

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Charismatic, intelligent and strong-minded, Nichole is happiest when she’s able to bond with people, especially friends and those close to her. Nichole believes in the power of positivity, which is why one of her favorite things to do is smile. She says it’s because, “I know deep in my heart, if I start to smile, other people will smile with me.” Nichole’s charisma and ability to “find the light in dark times” is what she likes most about herself. She says, “I’m strong because I remember a time when being strong was all I had.” For fun, Nichole likes to draw, sing and dance. Though she likes a variety of music, Nichole’s favorite genres are heavy metal and country, but there’s a special place in her heart for classic rock and violinist, Lindsey Sterling. She’s not one for television, but she loves all the Harry Potter movies.

Her favorite animals are cats; she would like to have one as a pet someday. In school, she likes her English class, and one of her future goals is to learn Mandarin Chinese. Nichole’s favorite foods are double fudge chocolate chip cookies and ice cream from Cold Stone.

If Nichole could change the world, she would make sure every child in foster care finds a loving family so no is left behind or left feeling unloved.

Nichole has no preference as to what her forever family looks like. She says, “as long as they love and care about me, I’ll be happy.”

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

September 2018 • 19

Oral Hygiene and Your Overall Health

by Dr. Nick Reynolds, Northeast Orthodontics

Poor oral health has been linked to heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. But by changing certain habits, you can improve the health of your mouth and teeth and lessen your risk.

How well you care for your teeth and gums has a powerful effect on your overall health. Neglecting your oral health lead to more than just sore teeth and bad breath — it can open the door to all sorts of health problems, including some pretty nasty diseases like oral cancer. Researchers have found possible connections between gum problems and heart disease, bacterial pneumonia, stroke, and even problem pregnancies.

20 • September 2018

“You cannot be healthy with an unhealthy mouth any more than one can be healthy with an infected foot,” says Richard H. Price, DMD, spokesperson for the American Dental Association (ADA) and a former clinical instructor at the Boston University Dental School.

The Role of Diet and Lifestyle in Oral Health

A number of dietary habits and lifestyle factors can affect oral health, including:

• Sugar consumption.

Having a sugar-laden diet will contribute to tooth decay and gum problems, as the bacteria in the mouth thrive in this environment, producing tooth and gumdestroying enzymes and acids.

• Smoking. Dental care experts have

long known that smoking cigarettes and cigars and using tobacco products can cause periodontal disease (gum disease), tooth decay, and oral cancer.

Cigars can also cause periodontal disease and throat, or pharyngeal, cancer.

The smoke from tobacco has a toxic effect on gum tissue, and can interfere

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with blood flow. Smoking also stains the heck out of teeth, is a direct cause of oral cancer, and can contribute to bad breath.

• Drinking alcohol. Drinking can

contribute to oral problems indirectly by resulting in a dehydrated mouth, which can allow bacteria to run rampant. In addition, people who have alcohol addiction issues are probably less likely to consistently follow good dental care habits.

• Changes in weight.

For those who wear dentures, changes in body weight tend to affect the way dentures fit. Just as weight gain or loss affects the way clothes fit, that gain or loss also affects the gum pads on which dentures rest. To help maintain a healthy weight and fight tooth decay,

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

the ADA advises people to eat a diet rich in highfiber fruits and vegetables.

• Medication.

Some medications, for example, some antibiotics, can cause internal staining of teeth, such as tetracycline staining, depending on the age at which you take them. Also, there are 200 to 400 medications, prescribed or over-the-counter, that have the side effect of drying up saliva. A dry mouth is more prone to gum disease and tooth decay, as well as bad breath.

Healthy Mouth, Healthy Body

To maintain your oral health — and overall good health —you should see your dentist regularly to head off any problems early. You should also practice good oral hygiene at home by carefully brushing and flossing your teeth regularly in order to prevent plaque from accumulating and causing problems. There is nothing a dentist can do that a patient can’t undo by neglecting their dental care.

Dental Fun Fact

Even though braces weren’t designed until the early 18th century, people have had a yearning for straight, attractive smiles for thousands of years. Many mummies have been discovered with cords made from animal intestines wrapped around their teeth, much like modern braces wiring, which archaeologists believe was an attempt at straightening crooked teeth.

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

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September 2018 • 21

Mysterious, Rarely Seen Species One Step Closer to Survival with New Birth The animal care and veterinarian teams at ZooTampa at Lowry Park have welcomed the birth of an endangered okapi calf. Okapi (pronounced ohCOP-ee) are the only living relative of the giraffe and are found in the remote forests of central Africa. The calf was born to parents Betty and Zach who arrived at the zoo in 2006 and are part of the Species Survival Plan of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums designed to help save endangered wildlife. The okapi’s birth draws much-needed attention to a shy animal in desperate need of saving.

“As a natural defense against predators, okapi mothers hide their calves away in nests. The calf will spend its time in the nest leaving only to nurse,” said Chris Massaro, General Curator at ZooTampa at Lowry Park.

“While guests eagerly await the calf to venture out into its habitat, the Zoo

will post updates with pictures and videos on social media to share her progress.”

These solitary chocolate brown animals with a face resembling a giraffe and zebra-like striped legs hide within the dense greenery of the Ituri Forest of Democratic Republic of Congo, where conflict and their secretive lives makes studying them a challenge.

“Exact numbers are difficult to determine, but an estimated 10,00035,000 live in the protected reserves in the Democratic Republic of the Congo,” said Massaro. “Unfortunately, their numbers continue to decline, due to human encroachment and hunting, making this an extremely important birth for ZooTampa and the Species Survival Plan to protect wildlife.”

Betty’s prenatal care included regular ultrasounds, a high energy diet and, for the first time in this species, a milk-testing method found helpful in horses and rhinoceros to predict Betty’s calving date.

“By increasing Betty’s prenatal care, we saw physical changes that predicted calving,” Dr. Ray Ball, D.V.M., vice president of medical sciences and senior veterinarian at ZooTampa said. “This included a dramatic change in her mammary glands and her hindquarters getting softer in preparation for the birth. The milk sampling also allowed us to determine her milk was good quality and helped us evaluate Betty’s overall health.”

Although shy by nature, Betty is quite comfortable with zookeepers and allowed them to collect milk samples used in the testing. Zookeepers often build strong bonds with the animals they care for which enables higher quality of care for each individual animal.

At 2 years old, the age at which an okapi calf typically reaches maturity and naturally branches out on its own, the calf will likely move to a new home as part of the Species Survival Plan.

ZooTampa participates in the Okapi Conservation Project, an international effort to protect the species from extinction, as part of its mission to protect and conserve endangered and threatened wildlife.

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September 2018 • 23

CareFest was an outgrowth of Super Bowl XXXV which was held in Tampa and was a sanctioned event of the Super Bowl. This compassion festival, done the week prior to the Super Bowl had over 1,400 volunteers serve approximately 12,000 attendees.

Close to 200 churches and business combined their resources along with Somebody Cares Tampa Bay and Operation Blessing. Over 120,000 lbs. of groceries were distributed, three truckloads of clothes, lunches were served to all participants, three sports clinics hosted by active professional athletes, games, adult and youth music and more was provided.

Afterwards, Daniel Bernard, President of Somebody Cares Tampa Bay, was asked to share with the heads of various departments of the City of Tampa. From this meeting where Daniel shared the desire of churches to serve the city, CareFest was born.

24 • September 2018

“The object of CareFest is literally to do all the good we can by all the means we can,” shared Bernard.

“CareFest unites churches, businesses, organizations and cities for the purpose of demonstrating God’s love in practical ways.”

For the past 17 years in September, Somebody Cares Tampa Bay (SCTB) has mobilized local churches, community agencies, and businesses to meet the practical needs of our communities through a weeklong CareFest.

“The object of this week is literally to do all the good we can by all the means we can. During this week we work with area churches and ministries to minister the love of God through practical acts of kindness such as passing out bags of food, delivering care packages, and giving care coupons to friends, neighbors and family members.”

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CareFest

®

This week of caring culminates in a day-long work day in which hundreds of volunteers in different locations throughout our service area come together to beautify and repair homes and neighborhoods. These projects are identified through local government offices, churches and ministries. At the end of the day the volunteers and the people who have been helped come together to recognize and celebrate their accomplishments. Free food and drinks are provided for all involved. In addition, each year a “Care Cup” trophy is awarded to the location with the largest number of volunteers. These celebrations also provide very important opportunities for area churches to connect with people in need and the general community.

Approximately 6,000 volunteers and over 150 partners from area churches, businesses and other non-profit ministries are involved in CareFest on an annual basis.

To learn more, visit www.carefestusa.com and click on “Get Involved.”

For volunteer information, contact Susan Ajoc, Community Services, 727-892-5141, or Chris Cahall, CareFest St. Pete Co-Chair, 727-743-5695. Volunteers and groups can also request information via e-mail to ICAN@stpete.org.

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CareFest not only blesses the recipients of the services and the volunteers, but it serves to further unify the community in Tampa Bay. This week of caring provides the additional and very powerful benefit of introducing churches, businesses, ministries and individuals to each other’s work in the area.

On September 29, CareFest 2018 will kick-off at three locations here in Pinellas. CareFest St. Pete will start and end at Lake Vista Park, CareFest Clearwater will start at the Ross Norton Recreation Center and CareFest Largo will start at Abundant Life Ministries.

All three locations will begin with check-in and light morning refreshments at 7:30 a.m., followed by projects conducted from 8 a.m. to Noon. Once finished at their project site, participants are invited back to start location for volunteer recognition, lunch and entertainment between noon and 1:30 p.m. The event wraps up with CareFest organizers and the mayor presenting certificates to all volunteer groups.

September 2018 • 25

Osceola High Student Earns a Top-10 Spot at the Microsoft Word World Championship Tampa Bay Bucs Foundation Unveils New Educational and Fitness Program

Aydan Soto won the opportunity to compete in the world competition after winning Certiport’s Microsoft Office Specialist U.S. National Championships.

After the success of the Bucs Academy programs last year with 24 Hillsborough County schools, the organization decided to expand to 300 elementary and middle schools, reaching nearly 200,000 students throughout Hillsborough and Pinellas counties with this new initiative.

At the world championship candidates from throughout the world demonstrated their skills in Microsoft Word®, Excel®, and PowerPoint®.

The program has three main components: the Jr. Bucs Fitness Challenge, the Jr. Bucs Reading Challenge and the Jr. Bucs Flag Football program.

The Jr. Bucs School Program provides new fitness equipment, flag football kits, player-led instructional videos showing drills done in practice, and an enhanced reading curriculum.

On August 22nd, Darcie Glazer Kassewitz, Owner/ President of Tampa Bay Buccaneers Foundation & Glazer Family Foundation kicked off the program with Dr. Grego and Hillsborough County Schools Superintendent Jeff Eakins. Students also attended the event and participated in exercises and flag football drills with the Bucs.

“We want to impact every child, in every class, in every school,” said Darcie Glazer Kassewitz, owner and president of Tampa Bay Buccaneers Foundation and Glazer Family Foundation.

“Fitness testing is required in schools and yet a lot of the schools lack funding to purchase the proper equipment to reach these goals, so we wanted to fill that need and capture the whole child to advance them academically.”

With both Hillsborough and Pinellas County Schools designated gold award winners as healthy school districts, the program aligns with the mission of the respective districts, according to Hillsborough County superintendent Jeff Eakins.

Eakins believes the initiative will help it reach its goal of a 90 percent graduation rate by 2020.

26 • September 2018

Next year, Aydan plans to compete again. Aydan won $3,000, a medal and a trophy at the Microsoft Office Specialist U.S. National Championship.

District Students Participate in National FBLA Competition About 60 PCSB students traveled to Baltimore this summer to compete at the Future Business

Leaders of American National Leadership Conference.

Lakewood High had seven top 10 finishers. Lakewood was also recognized as one of the top 10 largest FBLA chapters in the United States. Palm Harbor University High and Osceola Fundamental each won four top 10 finishes. Countryside High, East Lake High and Madeira Beach Middle each had a top 10 finish.

Future Business Leaders of America is the largest career student business organization in the world. Each year the organization helps over 230,000 members prepare for careers in business. FBLA inspires and prepares students to become community-minded business leaders in a global society through relevant career preparation and leadership experiences.

PCS Launches New App to Give Parents Better Access to Student Information On Their Cell Phones Pinellas County Schools is helping parents stay connected to their children’s education with the Pinellas County Schools App. The app, developed by Focus, helps families access student information on their cellphones and mobile devices. Parents and students can still use the Focus website on desktop computers, but the app is designed to work better with mobile devices.

Parents and students receive realtime notifications of grades, attendance, upcoming assignments and test scores. App users are also able to view school district news, Facebook posts and school messages. Links to the student calendar, school menus, school bell times, family engagement opportunities and transportation info are also available.

The app can be downloaded from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.

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ACADEMY

School Guide Pinellas County Contact Information

Admiral Farragut Academy

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Anona Christian Center

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2yr – VPK

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VPK – 8th

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1yr – 4yr

Belleair Montessori Academy

4

905 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Belleair

Blessed Sacrament Catholic School

5

7 8

727-347-8622 cathedralofstjude.org

3yr – 8th

Center Academy Palm Harbor

727-781-2986 centeracademy.com

4th – 12th

727-541-5716 centeracademy.com

5th – 12th

12

classicalconversations.com

Pre-K – 12th

13

727-954-8856 ccschool.com

VPK – 12th

14

727-733-1438 cornerstonechristianfl.org

VPK – 8th

15

Classical Conversations

Over 30 locations in Pinellas & Hillsborough 10 11

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5

Cathedral School of St. Jude

6710 86th Ave N, Pinellas Park

Community Christian School of Five Oaks

7900 22nd Ave N, St. Petersburg

Cornerstone Christian School

317 Milwaukee Ave, Dunedin

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Feather Sound Christian Preschool 727-573-1012 feathersoundpreschool.com

28 • September 2018

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Scan this barcode with your QR enabled smart phone to see our complete online school directory. Or visit www.gulfcoastfamily.org

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38 23

9th – 12th

Center Academy Pinellas Park

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727-449-2247 cchs.us

34054 US 19 N, Palm Harbor

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Calvary Christian High School

600 58th St N, St. Petersburg

12

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29

Pre-K – 8th

110A N McMullen Booth Rd, Clearwater

21

43

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727-391-4060 blessedsacramentcatholicschool.com

11501 66th Ave N, Seminole

6

Grades

727-593-5437 anona.com; find us under the Grow tab

7589 113 Lane N, Seminole

35 36

14 30 45

3yr – 12th

Bay Pines Lutheran

3

49 8

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384-5500 x 220 farragut.org

501 Park St. N, St. Peterburg

727-542-6294 covenantacademyfl.org

727-733-1438 cornerstonechristianfl.org

BELLEAIR MONTESSORI

2018 Gulf Coast Family

School

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Contact Information

Grades

727-799-1618 myccacademy.org

Infant – 8th

727-542-6294 covenantacademyfl.org

K – 10th

Delphi Academy of Florida

727-447-6385 delphifl.org

Pre-K – 9th

Faith Academy Preschool

727-391-9788 seminoleag.org

2yr – VPK

Countryside Christian Academy

1850 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater

Covenant Academy

5495 Park Blvd, Pinellas Park 1831 Drew St, Clearwater

10600 113th Street, Seminole

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First Baptist Preschool Center Holy Family Pinellas Park Catholic School 727-544-9465 727-526-8194 fbcpp.org/preschool holyfamily-school.com Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

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727-393-9100 keswickchristian.org www.gulfcoastfamily.org

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School

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Feather Sound Christian Preschool

13880 Feather Sound Dr, Clearwater

727-595-2112 ctklc.org/preschool Grades

727-573-1012 feathersoundpreschool.com

2yr – 5yr

727-544-9465 fbcpp.org/preschool

2yr – 6yr

33 34 35 36

727-526-8194 holyfamily-school.com

2yr – 8th

37

727-596-4342 ircs.org

Pre-K – 12th

727-393-9100 keswickchristian.org

Infant – 12th

First Baptist Preschool

250 78th Ave NE, St. Petersburg

Indian Rocks Christian School

12685 Ulmerton Road, Largo

Keswick Christian School

10101 54th Ave N, St. Petersburg

Lakeside Schristian School

1897 Sunset Point Rd, Clearwater

Learning Adventures Preschool

4401 38th Ave N, St. Petersburg

727-239-7808 lakesidechristianschool.org 727-527-3180 www.AtLearningAdventures.com

LiFT Academy

727-434-8322 liftacademy.org

13400 Park Blvd, Seminole

Loving Arms Christian Preschool

727-595-2112 ctklc.org/preschool

11220 Oakhurst Road, Largo

Morning Star School

4661 80th Ave N, Pinellas Park

727-544-6036 morningstarschool.org

Northside Christian School

727-541-7593 x 247 nck12.com

Oakhurst Learning Center

727-596-3411 oakhurstlearningcenter.com

7777 62nd Ave N, St. Petersburg 13233 102nd Ave. N., Largo

Pinellas Academy of Math & Science

1775 S Highlands Avenue, Clearwater

727-330-9449 pinellasacademy.com

Pinellas Preparatory Academy

727-536-3600 pinellasprep.org

2300 S Belcher Rd. #100, Largo

727-793-2400 platoacademy.net

2045 Palmetto St., Clearwater 1601 Curlew Rd., Palm Harbor 7100 142nd Ave. N., Largo

thru #

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K – 12 2yr – 5yr age 5–18+ 2yr – 5yr

40 41 42 43

1st – 12th 45 VPK – 12th 46 2yr – Pre-K 47

thru #

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Plato Academy (Continued)

10888 126th Ave., Seminole 3901 Park St. N., St. Petersburg 2795 Keystone Rd, Tarpon Springs 8812 Old County Road 54, New Port Richey

727-793-2400 platoacademy.net

K – 8th

727-576-1772 fbcstpete.org

2 yr – Pre-K

Rainbow Preschool

727-397-5759 oakhurstumc.com

2 yr – VPK

Rosie’s Play School

727-526-1038 rosiesplayschool.com

2 yr – VPK

Rosie’s Play School

727-526-1038 rosiesplayschool.com

1 yr – VPK

Rosie’s Play School

727-521-6931 rosiesplayschool.com

Infant – VPK

727-544-1106 shsaints.org

Pre-K – 8th

727-535-8512 shadycreekpreschool.com

2 yr – VPK

727-456-7511 shorecrest.org

3 yr – 12th

727-797-1186 skycrestchristianschool.org

1 yr – 8th

727-596-9491 stjeromeearlychildhoodcenter.org

2 yr – VPK

727-360-1113 sjvcs.org

VPK – 8th

727-522-3000 stpetechristian.org

K – 8th

727-781-3808 westlakechristianschool.org

2 yr – 8th

Promiseland Preschool

1900 Gandy Blvd., St. Petersburg 13400 Park Blvd, Seminole 4500 38th Ave. N., St. Petersburg 501 39th St. N., St. Petersburg 2869 54th Ave. N., St. Petersburg

Sacred Heart Interparochial School

7951 46th Way N, Pinellas Park

Shady Creek Preschool

2095 Belleair Rd, Clearwater

Shorecrest Prep

5101 1st St NE, St. Petersburg

Skycrest Christian School

129 N. Belcher Road, Clearwater

St. Jerome Early Childhood Center

10895 Hamlin Blvd, Largo

St. John Vianney Catholic School

K – 8th 48 K – 8th

K – 8th

39

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

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44

#

727-793-2400 platoacademy.net

38

49

Plato Academy

30

727-544-6036 727-541-7593 x 247 morningstarschool.org nck12.com MORNING School Grades S T A R S C H O OContact L Information

Contact Information

5495 Park Blvd., Pinellas Park

Holy Family Catholic School

26

#

MORNING STAR SCHOOL

FOR TOMORROW

727-434-8322 liftacademy.org

16

25

24

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INDEPENDENCE

LEARNING

#

50

St. Petersburg Christian School

2021 62nd Ave N, St. Petersburg

Westlake Christian School

1551 Belcher Rd, Palm Harbor

Westside Christian School

11633 137th St N, Largo

727-517-2153

westsidechristianschool.com

K – 12th

# 46 47 St. Jerome Early Childhood Center

#

727-526-1038 rosiesplayschool.com

727-596-9491 stjeromeearlychildhoodcenter.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

727-360-1113 sjvcs.org

September 2018 • 29

September Basic Training: Show Affection to Your Kids Our kids need our affection. It’s a crucial piece that can have a great impact on them. Studies show that, when shown affection, kids have higher selfesteem, better communication with their parents, and fewer psychological and behavioral problems.

But showing affection is not something that comes natural for some men. So, how do we meet this need of our kids when it’s something that is not always natural and, for some, uncomfortable? Do we leave this up to Mom?

Here are 3 Reasons Dads Must Show Affection to Their Kids.

1 Better communication: Studies say you have better parent-child communication when you show affection to your kids. The affection of hugging, wrestling around, holding hands, or even kissing breaks down barriers. It frees you and encourages your kids to be more open with you, especially in the area of communication.

2 Higher self-esteem: When a child knows he has love and support, he feels that he can take on the world. The studies also reveal that your children will have higher self-esteem when you show affection. They know when they fail they have some loving arms to run to. They know when they do well, they have a high five or pat on the back awaiting them. No matter what the situation, they’ll have the support they need.

3 Better social interaction: Your affection shows your kids you love them. It shows them they are valuable. When our kids feel loved and valued, they’ll be less likely to search for those things in peer relationships. The things they are looking for are right there in your arms, your words, and your actions. This is helpful when they have choices to make amongst peers who may be into things they’re not comfortable with or have been advised against.

Sound Off: How do you show your kids affection?

Huddle up with your kids tonight and say: “I love you. What are some things I do that let you know this is true?”

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www.sylvanlearning.com/stpetersburg 30 • September 2018

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper Sylvan of St. Petersburg & Seminolewww.gulfcoastfamily.org 3951 Tyrone Blvd.

347-6284

www/sylvanlearning.com/stpetersburg

A

L

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30 AY D

P

R

A

D

O

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I K R I P P E L '

Whether you feel super-connected to your kid or a little distant, we believe that with our 30 Day Back-to-School Challenge, you and your child will be much closer when this is completed. Simply do the assigned task on that particular day and watch your relationship thrive!

1.

17.

Ask your child to help you fix some thing in the house.

Eat lunch with your child at school.

18.

After picking your child up from school, go get ice cream.

Say, “My favorite memory of you when you were a baby was __________.”

19.

4.

Say, “The one thing I really admire about you is ________________.”

Make your child’s photo the wallpaper on your phone and show it to him/her.

20. Ask your child these open-ended

5.

Go out to dinner with your child and spouse after school.

21.

6.

7.

Cook your child a special breakfast.

2.

3.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16. imom.com

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Start an All Pro Dad’s Day at your child’s school. *

Ask your child what they want to be when they grow up.

Share your funniest memory from school.

Hug your child three times.

Go to a parent/teacher conference.

Put your child’s sporting events on your calendar.

Pray for your child’s success in school.

questions.**

Ask your child’s teachers about his/her behavior at school.

22. Check over your child’s homework assignments.

23. Play with your child for thirty minutes before dinner.

24. Pick a book, and read a couple pages to your child every night.

25. Pack a present for your child in his/her backpack.

26. Let your child pick a new CD to listen to in the car on the way to school.

Leave a handwritten note on your child’s pillow.

Chaperone a fieldtrip.

27. Pray with your child before bed.

28. Put notes in your child’s lunchbox.

29. Take your child and a few friends out

Show your child a few of his/her baby pictures.

30. Say, “I love you because ___________.”

Let your child pick what’s for dinner.

* allprodad.com/dads-day

for pizza and a movie.

**bit.ly/apd-kid-conversation-starters

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

© 2012 Family First. All Rights Reserved. All Pro Dad is a registered trademark.

September 2018 • 31

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Safety To & From School by

Students If you ride the bus: • Walk to and from the bus — don’t run, push or shove • Stand back from the curb while you wait for the bus

If you walk:

• Wait for the driver to tell you it’s OK to cross

• Never get off the bus at a different stop

• Cross at least 10 feet in front of the bus

• Tell the driver where your stop is, and stay on the bus until you get there

• Never crawl under a school bus

• Walk in a group, not alone • Walk on the sidewalk— if there is no sidewalk, • Cross at corners or marked walk on the left side of crosswalks and remember the road so you can see to look left-right-left oncoming cars • Cross with a crossing • Walk during daylight if guard whenever possible possible—and if it’s not, • Watch out for turning cars wear reflective clothing

• Never accept a ride from a stranger • Don’t step into the road from between parked cars or other things that block a driver’s view

All Children’s Hospital and the Suncoast Safe Kids Coalition are pleased to share advice on getting to and from school safety during the coming year.

If you ride your bike: • Always wear a helmet that fits securely • Walk the bike across busy intersections instead of riding • Cross with a guard wherever possible

• Look left-right-left before crossing where there is no guard • Never ride out from between parked cars or anything that can block a driver’s view

Cornerstone

• Watch for turning cars • Ride during daylight if possible, or wear reflective clothing if you must ride in the dark or at dawn/dusk

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By bike: Help your student find the safest route to SCHOLARSHIPS SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE! AVAILABLE! STEP UP FOR STUDENTS FOR STUDENTS Visit: sufs.org

317 Milwaukee Ave., Dunedin, FL 34698 www.cornerstonechristianfl.org 32 • September 2018

A parent or other responsible person should walk with young children to the bus stop and wait until the bus arrives. In the afternoon, meet the child and the bus stop and walk him or her home from school. Review school bus safety with older children and remind them to respect and listen to their driver.

Find the safest route for your child to walk to school, identifying safe crosswalks and watching out for anything that could prevent drivers from seeing your child. A parent or other responsible person should accompany young children each way, every day.

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Parents, here are some important safety reminders for safe school travel:

and from school, paying close attention to crosswalks and anything that could make it hard for drivers to see your child.

By car:

Call today to schedule your personal tour!

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

If you or another adult drives your children to school, remember that all children under age 13 should ride in the back seat of the vehicle. In addition, every child on every ride must use a car seat, booster seat or safety belt that is appropriate for her or his weight and height. You can call our Safe Kids Coalition at 1-800-756-SAFE for more information about child passenger safety. www.gulfcoastfamily.org

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*For more than 40 consecutive years, United American has earned the A+ (Superior) Financial Strength Rating from A.M. Best Company (as of 7/17). United American Insurance Company is not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or federal Medicare program. Policies and benefits may vary by state and have some limitations and exclusions. Individual Medicare Supplement policy forms MSA10, MSB10, MSC10, MSD10, MSF10, MSHDF10, MSG10, MSK06, MSL06, and MSN10 are available from our Company where state approved. Some states require these plans be available to persons eligible for Medicare due to disability or End Stage Renal Disease. This is a solicitation for insurance. You may be contacted by an Agent representing United American Insurance Company.

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To advertise, call 727-612-0783

September 2018 • 33

p o h S ! l a Loc

Buy Loc al!

Building Community!

The casual encounters you enjoy at neighborhood businesses and the public spaces around them build relationships and local cohesiveness.

They’re the ultimate social networking sites!

ROBBYN QUANDT REAL ESTATE BROKER ASSOCIATE HOMES.RQ@GMAIL.COM 727-251-3501

HELPING PEOPLE BUY AND SELL HOMES SINCE 1996 FREE CONSULTATION • REFERENCES AVAILABLE

Pinellas Park Title Co. » A+ rated with BBB.

Tutor/Counselor/ Moderator

A safe and loving place where children have fun learning

Science • English • Mathematics Tutoring: High school English, Math, Chemistry Moderator: Shakespearean plays, role-playing & discussion groups

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REGISTER NOW FOR 2018 Ages 2 through *VPK (*9 – 12) Full Time / Part Time Hours 7:30 – 5:30 Phone: 727.573.1012 Email: preschool@feathersoundchurch.com

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Edens’ Naturals

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All Natural Skin Care

Made from 100% All Natural Ingredients: Beeswax, Kokum Butter, Virgin Coconut Oil, and Essential oils.

Each product is hand made, poured and packaged.

All products are under $10.00 Free Local Delivery!

Ask us about our first responder, veteran, teacher, and full time ministry discounts!

www.edensnaturals.us 727-639-3292 34 • September 2018

Invite Sara to Speak or Purchase her book at

www.SaraIm.com

Saroeup (Sara) Im 727-512-3017 Get Listed – Get Seen

Get Noticed (727) 612-0783 Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Let’s Make a Deal – Not!

by Tim Rhine Let’s face it, if you are a parent you’ve been there. Where you ask? Well, almost anywhere! The checkout at the grocery store, in the mall, at church, even the family reunion. Then it happens — your child plops down on the floor and throws a fit, crying, screaming, and thrashing

about. Now you remember! Sends a chill down your spine doesn’t it?

At some point all of us have found ourselves taking a page out of Monty Hall’s “Let’s Make A Deal.” Do you remember the TV game show? There was Monty Hall and all those crazily dressed contestants. Monty would up the ante for what was behind curtain #2; the one Carol Merrill was standing in front of. Would it be a Hawaiian vacation or a cow dressed in a Hawaiian shirt with a lei around its neck? This made for great TV, but a guide to parenting?

Drop the crazily dressed people and add a crying child or a teenager with an attitude; replace Monty Hall with a stressed out parent, and there you have it — your own version of “Let’s Make a Deal.” You try to bargain, barter, and Mr. Rhine is the Elementary Principal at Indian Rocks Christian School. Mrs. Rhine even bribe your child into doing what teaches High School English at IRCS. you want them to do. Unfortunately

it seems to work, but does it? Has the child responded for the right reason or just to get the “deal” you made?

Cooperation is not something that is grown simply by adding water or reading a book on the subject. It is a learned behavior. The foundation to cooperative behavior is courtesy. Sadly it seems that we spend more time complaining about the lack of courtesy than we do teaching it to our children.

Courtesy does not just happen. Here are some important skills: • Greeting others • Holding a door for others • Saying please and thank you • Compliments, giving and receiving • Offering to help someone with a job or chore • Listening intently • Sharing • Permitting someone to go ahead of you

These are just a few courtesy skills. Look for opportunities to teach these skills.

When you hold the door for your child to go first, insist that they say “thank you.” When the neighbor greets them do not let them wave and run off. Have them return the greeting, “Hello, Mrs. Smith.” Teach them to celebrate their sibling’s accomplishments. Help your child to learn to recognize opportunities to help others. At the end of the day ask them who they helped that day. Now is the time to celebrate and show them your appreciation.

Remember, courtesy does not just happen! Model it, teach it and insist on it – no more, “Let’s Make A Deal.”

Please give me a call for a no obligation

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assessment of your needs!

Welcome Home.

Be incredible!

Mark Sanchez REALTOR® Mobile: 727-488-1419 Email: MarkSanchez@kw.com

For over 20 years Classical Conversations has been equipping parents to be great educators at home.

Proudly serving the Real Estate needs of Pinellas County. www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Get access now to the tools that over 40,000 families use to home educate.

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To advertise, call 727-612-0783

September 2018 • 35

Keeping Grandpare nts Close

Faith Foundation Future

by Dr. James Dobson

Hi, I’m Dr. James Dobson, with My Family Talk. You know, one of the most enjoyable things to having an international radio program is the thousands of cards and letters I get from listeners. I particularly love those that come from children. One such letter came in recently from a nine-year-old girl named Christina. She sent me a poem that she had written for her grandparents. Let me share it with you.

There is a place where I like to hide.

There is a place with love inside.

It’s my Nana’s garden.

When it’s all quiet I just stand still, and listen to the trees and whippoorwill.

There is a place where I like to hide.

There is a place with love inside.

It’s my Nana’s garden.

It’s my Nana’s garden.

St. John Vianney Catholic School Now Enrolling VPK-8th Grade Accepting Step Up and McKay Scholarships 727-360-1113

Isn’t that creative, coming from a child? It speaks to the importance of grandparents in a child’s life. Christina sounds like a lucky young lady.

I’ve always believed that grandparents have a Godgiven responsibility to help care for and nurture their grandchildren, and most do an admirable job of it.

Children instinctively crave the companionship of their elders. And the strongest families are those who have loving and stable grandparents at the helm.

Grandparents, let me encourage you to stay close to your grandchildren. Don’t meddle, but be available.

And parents— do what you can to foster closeness with your moms and dads. Your kids need them more than you might think.

Dr. James Dobson is the Founder and President of Family Talk, a nonprofit organization that produces his radio program, “Dr. James Dobson’s Family Talk.” He is the author of more than 30 books dedicated to the preservation of the family.

36 • September 2018

Pinellas Preparatory Academy, Inc Award Winning Art Departments Music / Spanish / Athletics Challenging Curriculum Afterschool Clubs Technology Integration

PPA is a high performing, tuition free, public charter school for highly motivated students in grades K-8.

Our highly trained, award winning teachers offer a private school education in a family atmosphere.

2300 S. Belcher Road, Largo, FL 33771

Call 727-536-3600 to schedule a school tour.

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

Now accepting applications for 2018-2019

Application deadline for lottery is April 1, 2018 at 4:00 pm. www.gulfcoastfamily.org

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

t a e r It’s G ! e t a to Crdep a r e n t s Gran Craf ts Day

Grandparents Day is an officially–recognized national holiday that falls each year on the first Sunday after Labor Day. With this holiday, children have an opportunity to show their appreciation and love toward their grandparents, and grandparents feel valued as their role is recognized. Here are three simple personalized crafts your children can create that are sure to put a smile on any grandparent’s face!

Those two years are still the best years of my life, and I would never trade them for the world.

– Benjamin Ward Jack Wyrtzen Center New York Campus

TRACS accredited www.wordoflife.edu

Tell Grandma and Grandpa how great they are by making them this adorable foot print butterfly card. While your preschoolers may not be able to write, they can still make cards with words and special messages too! They may even learn something while they’re doing it!

New York | Florida | Ontario, Canada | South Korea

Bay Pines Lutheran Church and School

This cute garden apron is a lot of fun and quite inexpensive to make. With a simple white apron, a couple of paint brushes and some acrylic paint from Michaels and of course your children’s imprints you can make this keepsake which any grandparent would love to have. You don’t need to be an artist to do this craft, just some patience to make sure the kids put their footprints and hand prints in the right locations. Use your children’s tootsies to make the butterflies and their hands for the flowers.

VPK – 8th Grade Christ-Centered Values Student Academic Achievement Low Teacher to Student Ratios Close Parental Communication 1:1 Technology Program

WELSSA Accredited www.gulfcoastfamily.org

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The idea of personalized pot holders is definitely not a new one, although it does make a great gift. Grandparent love these and they love putting them up in the kitchen for all to see! Dish towels also make great gifts.

September 2018 • 37

with Jim Daly

DAD CONSIDERS INTERVIEWING DAUGHTER’S POTENTIAL DATES

Q: My 16-year-old daughter has blossomed into a beautiful young lady—and it seems I’m not the only one who’s noticed. She’s getting more and more attention from boys her age, and I suspect it won’t be long before she’ll be dating. As her dad, what’s my role in interacting with and vetting any potential suitors?

Jim: Well, I strongly advise you to avoid some of the hilarious extremes employed by the hyper-protective dad (Kevin Hart) in this year’s Hyundai Super Bowl commercial. At the same time, you don’t want to disappear into the shadows when young men start showing up at your doorstep. As a father, you have an important role to play.

One of your chief responsibilities is to protect your daughter. That’s especially important when she’s beginning to date. Now that you’re approaching that time of life, consider this suggestion from author Dennis Rainey: Interview the boys who aspire to date your daughter.

You heard me right. Before any dates are scheduled, meet with the boys who are interested in your daugh-

IS MY 8-YEAR-OLD SAFE PLAYING VIDEO GAMES?

ter and ask them some serious questions to determine if they’re mature and responsible young men of good character. Don’t be combative or heavy-handed, but do make it clear how you expect them to treat and behave toward your daughter. It’s not about intimidating the boy as much as it is promoting a sense of respect for her.

Another benefit of this exercise is that your daughter will learn how to evaluate potential suitors on her own. And, really, that’s the point. Whether it’s a high school boy or her future husband, the goal is for your daughter to understand and demand that she be treated with the respect and dignity she deserves.

As with most things in life, that education starts right there at home.

Q: My 8-year-old son enjoys playing video games.

We try our best to manage his playing time, but recently I saw a news story about how predators target kids through online gaming. Is there anything we can do to protect our son?

Bob Waliszewski, Director, Plugged-In: Kudos for caring enough about your son to manage his gaming activity. Sadly, predators are not easily deterred in their efforts to exploit vulnerabilities of the innocent, so you’re wise to exercise parental diligence. The following are measures I’d recommend: If you haven’t already done so, be sure that your game system is in a public area of your home where your son’s online interactions can be easily monitored.

• Familiarize yourself with and use the parental controls of the gaming system. Not only can you set time limits, but you can restrict access to inappropriate games.

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• Check the game system settings to make sure any online methods of locating your son are turned off.

• Teach your son why he must keep personal information private (no last names, addresses, phone numbers, age, school information, photos, etc.).

• Set clear boundaries and explain why he should never visit chat rooms or engage strangers in online conversation.

• Establish a rule that allows online gaming only with friends that you and your son both know, and instruct him to tell you if fellow players do anything unsafe or inappropriate.

• Limit all gaming-related purchases to you and your spouse only.

In connection with this last point, I’d encourage you to check out our pluggedin.com gaming reviews for family-friendliness. This, along with the other guidelines I’ve mentioned, should help make sure that your son’s gaming experience is safe and fun.

COUPLE WANTS TO ESTABLISH THEIR OWN FAMILY UNIT Q: My fiance and I are going to be married next month. His family is extremely close – relationally and geographically. And though I’m sure that their presence and influence will be positive for our marriage, I’m concerned we may struggle to establish ourselves as a distinct family unit. Am I worrying needlessly?

Greg Smalley, Vice President, Family Ministries: I commend you for recognizing that your husband’s family situation can be a wonderful blessing, as well as a challenge that needs to be approached wisely. In fact, I wish I’d had the benefit of your insight when I was a newlywed.

My wife, Erin, and I had been married only a few weeks when we took a three-week trip to England with my family. What might have been a dream vaca-

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tion in another circumstance turned out to be an absolute disaster. The problem: Once in Europe, I reverted to behaving like a son instead of a husband. It was an awkward situation that we weren’t equipped to deal with. Looking back, we realized that we needed more time to become comfortable with our new roles and to form our identity as a couple.

Since then, we’ve recommended that newlyweds take a “leave of absence” from other areas of life for a time and give priority to each other. This not only includes time-consuming hobbies, but your families of origin and friendships as well.

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with Jim Daly To avoid misunderstanding, explain to your loved ones your reasons for temporarily pulling away.

You’re simply giving yourselves a chance to establish strong roots at one of the most crucial points in your relationship. When you emerge from this time, you’ll be better able to interact with others as a husband or wife, instead of settling into the familiar roles of your past. By doing so, you’ll give your marriage its best chance to flourish for years to come.

GETTING A HEAD START ON KIDERGARTEN Q: We’re a year out before our son is scheduled to begin kindergarten. For a variety of reasons, he won’t be attending preschool, and I’m afraid this might put him at a disadvantage next year. Is there anything I can do to compensate for this?

Danny Huerta, Executive Director, Parenting: It’s important to understand that cultivating “school readiness” isn’t simply a matter of formal academic training. All of a child’s early experiences, whether at home or in organized preschool settings, are educational. There are a number of things, then, you can do at home to optimize his chances of succeeding in the academic arena. Here are a few suggestions: • Read books aloud with your child. Get him used to handling books and help him recognize the difference between pictures and print.

• Engage in informal counting activities. This will strengthen your child’s understanding of numbers.

Familiarize him with the alphabet.

• Develop reading readiness by promoting your child’s phonological awareness.

You can do this by reading nursery rhymes, singing and clapping along with songs, and playing games with rhyming words.

• Spend time talking, playing and cuddling with your child. Take steps to stimulate informal conversation.

Give him opportunities to ask lots of questions. Encourage play that promotes creativity, imagination and problem-solving skills.

• If your child has trouble sitting still, practice having him concentrate on a task for a short period of time (10 minutes). Over several months, increase that time until he can remain focused for 30 minutes or so.

• Encourage behaviors and activities that develop a sense of responsibility in your child (e.g., simple chores) and that demonstrate respect and courtesy.

• Look for opportunities to develop your child’s social skills through playgroups.

If you have additional concerns or if our counselors can be of further help, please call us at 855-771-4357.

• Create and maintain a regular routine in your home.

Emphasize mealtimes, naptimes, bedtime, etc. Help your child to become comfortable with this rhythm.

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.

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40 • September 2018

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Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

When Social Media Bullying Turns Uglier

by Bob Waliszewski, PluggedIn.com

When I was in elementary school, I was frightened terribly by a boy named Winfred. Winfred was a huge (I thought) fifth-grade bully. Somehow I had crossed him and as a result, he had threatened several times to beat me up.

I worked hard to take different routes home from school (hiding a lot along the way) so Winfred wouldn’t find me.

And fortunately, he never did—though I had some close calls.

That was how bullying worked when I was young. I’m just glad Winfred didn’t have social media.

Today, as we know, bullying has gone high tech…and become a lot more anonymous. Late last year, a 13-year-old girl from Southern California hanged herself, leaving a note saying she just

couldn’t take any more of the hate from her classmates. About 2.5 million people have viewed the interview with her parents on YouTube, an account that states—almost unbelievably—that the social media bullying continued even after her death.

And then there’s the mixed-bag story of Jeremiah Thomas, a 16-year-old Christian athlete dying from cancer.

I’ve watched a couple of Thomas’

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videos on YouTube, including one in which Jeremiah shares how excited he was about a girl who came to Christ when she came to visit him in his hospital room.

has “a racist, homophobic, misogynis­ tic, xenophobic, Islamaphobic [sic], hateful” agenda, and another as saying “He’s garbage and is suffering as he deserves.”

But for some reason I just can’t begin to understand, Jeremiah has been pelted with hateful messages from people who say they’re glad that he’s dying.

Why would anyone do that? As it turns out, Jeremiah Thomas boldly decided to use his remaining days to stand up for the life of the preborn and speak and write about it, too. According to The Daily Signal, that led to responses such as these:

These comments are beyond vile… and so sad! What’s more, I’m sure that Jeremiah was stung by them. Who wouldn’t be?

“Cancer is giving your mom a late term abortion. LMAO [laughing my a-- off],” one message said.

“Jeremiah… You aren’t dead yet? God do your job!” taunted another.

“Good Riddance,” another posted to Jeremiah’s prayer group page on Facebook, following with a one-star review.

Jeremiah’s mother, Kendra Thomas, quoted one person as saying Jeremiah

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But you sure wouldn’t be able to tell when watching him share his faith and concern for the unborn on video. He rises above the hate, finding great joy in leaving a “legacy wish” to make abortion illegal in the state of Texas.

And interestingly, he has an ally in the state’s governor. You can check out his conversation from his hospital bed with Gov. Gregg Abbott online.

Without question, bullying and its modern iterations on social media are wrong, wrong, wrong. But it’s nice to see a young man turn the other cheek, ignore his hate-filled critics and focus on the right things. I hope none of us have to deal with such vitriol and contempt, but if we do, we have a great example in Jeremiah Thomas on what it looks like to handle our enemies.

September 2018 • 41

7.2 million

S e pte m b e r FU N FACTS Celebrating 453 years

The City of St. Augustine is the nation’s oldest permanently occupied European settlement. On Sept. 8. 1565, Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles came ashore and named a stretch of land near the inlet in honor of Augustine, a saint of the Roman Catholic Church. In recent years the exact location has been pinpointed by archaeologists from the University of Florida as being where the present-day Mission of Nombre de Dios and the Fountain of Youth stand. So this September, take some time to discover more about the nation’s oldest city.

On September 16, 1620

102 men, women, and children set sail from Plymouth, England on the Mayflower. Their destination was the New World, where they could have religious freedom, and continue using their native language, culture, and customs. They were some of the first immigrants and helped to pave the way for millions more to follow who were in search of freedom. We commemorate these brave, early settlers every year on Mayflower Day, the 16th of September.

is the number of grandparents whose grandchildren currently live with them according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Grandparents Day is celebrated annually on the first Sunday after Labor Day. Here are seven grand ideas to help you celebrate.

1. Call your grandparents and wish them a “Happy Grandparent’s Day!” 2. Get them a nice card. Be sure to fill it up with memories you have shared, and maybe a few cute pictures of you.

3. Spend time with them on their special day!

4. Take a special trip to the museum and ask your grandparents to share. Let them tell you about what it was like when they were kids, even if you have heard the story a million times.

5. Spend an afternoon painting or out fishing.

6. Go out for a special dinner and then pull out the photo albums. Have fun looking through old pictures together.

7. Cherish the time you have with them and do not take them for granted.

September 22, 2018

In celebration of National Museum Day, over a dozen local museums are joining with hundreds of other museums across the nation to offer free admission. The promotion, spearheaded by the Smithsonian museums in Washington, D. C., is held to promote museum visits among those who might not ordinarily tour museums. To find out more visit smithsonianmag.com/museumday.

September 17

Constitution and Citizenship Day commemorates the anniversary of the signing of the Constitution of the United States on September 17, 1787. The Constitution stands as the final authority in United States law.

September 17 is also a day for learning about the rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizens.

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42 • September 2018

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

God Bless the Broken Road – Sep. 7

Amber’s ideal life is shattered when she loses her husband to the war in Afghanistan. With her faith hanging in the balance, Amber is forced to decide between the broken road she knows so well or trusting in a new path that God has provided.

The House With A Clock In Its Walls – Sep. 21

Ten-year-old Lewis goes to live with his uncle in a creaky old house that contains a mysterious ticktock noise. When Lewis accidentally awakens the dead, the town’s sleepy facade magically springs to life with a secret world of witches and warlocks.

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Smallfoot – Sep. 28 The hospital can be a scary place for anyone, especially children.

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Little Women – Sep. 28

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To advertise, call 727-612-0783

September 2018 • 43

September 2018

Events

September 1-30 2018 EPCOT FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL

September 1 & 15 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 September 3, 7, 9, 11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 26 & 30 MICKEY’S NOT-SO-SCARY HALLOWEEN PARTY

It’s almost time to figure out your MustEats for the 2018 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival, which will run from September 1–November 12, 2018! Your EPCOT admission is all that’s needed to participate in this popular event! The Festival will play host to seminars, tasting events, and sumptuous meals overseen by top Disney Chefs as well as renowned guest Chefs. www.disneyworld.disney.go.com September 1-30 THE NEW TOY STORY LAND Guests visiting the new Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will “shrink” to the size of a toy and join in on the fun with Woody, Jessie, Buzz, and Andy’s other beloved toys are having in Andy’s backyard. www.disneyworld.disney.go.com September 1-30 SPORTSTEMBER AT THE GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM To celebrate the GCM’s 8th birthday, the Glazer Children’s Museum has $8 general admission all September! The museum is focusing on health, wellness, nutrition, and fitness all month. Also come join in on the fun at the Good Food Good Mood festival Labor Day Weekend. There will be sports programming, yoga and fitness practices, cooking classes, and much, much more! www.glazermuseum.org September 1 & 2 SEAWORLD’S ELECTRIC OCEAN Charge up your summer nights at SeaWorld’s Electric Ocean spectacular.

Explore exotic worlds of light and music filled with glowing sea creatures, DJ entertainment, and a spectacular display of fireworks. Electric Ocean takes place on select dates throughout the summer. www.seaworld.com

44 • September 2018

September 4 CHILDREN’S BOARD OF HILLSBOROUGH FREE TUESDAY AT THE GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM The Children’s Board of Hillsborough proudly presents a Free Admission Tuesday program held on the first Tuesday of every month, between 12-7pm. Join us for free, family fun at the GCM. www.glazermuseum.org September 7-9, 10-12, 15-16, 24-27 and 28-30 RAYS GAMES AT THE TROP Baseball season is in full swing and here is your chance to cheer on your hometown Tampa Bay Rays! Dig out your baseball gloves and those cowbells and come out to the Trop this August and come cheer your new and exciting Rays as they take on the

Baltimore Orioles, the Cleveland Indians, the Oakland Athletics, the New York Yankees and the Toronto Blue Jays. www.mlb.com/rays September 8, 15, 22 & 29 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 September 9 GREAT CONNECTIONS AT GREAT EXPLORATIONS Connect your family with other families and with resources in the community. For this event, Great Explorations Children’s Museum will open early for children with special needs and their families to enjoy Great Connections, a sensory-friendly event. Great Explorations will close to the

Join Mickey and his friends at the Magic Kingdom for 34 nights of “not so scary” fun at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. On select nights the Magic Kingdom is transformed into a kid-friendly “Spooky” Party. New spooky experiences have been added to several attractions around the park for 2018! There will also be Halloween fireworks and a specially themed parade starring your favorite Disney characters all decked out in their Halloween costumes! www.disneyworld.disney.go.com September 4-30 CLEARWATER MARINE AQUARIUM’S RESIDENT SPECIAL The CMA appreciates it’s neighbors! To celebrate the CMA is featuring a special admission offer for the month of September for all local residents. This offer applies to residents of Pinellas, Hillsborough, Hernando, Citrus, Manatee and, Pasco counties. Only $9.99 for kids and only $14.99 for adults. This offer is available September 4-30, 2018. Show your valid Florida ID (driver’s license, identification card or voter’s registration) at the Ticketing window to redeem. www.seewinter.com

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public, offer discounted admission and provide a “cool down” room for families who need to take a break. www.greatex.org September 11 TODDLER TUESDAYS AT ZOOTAMPA Tuesdays are for the toddlers! Once a month, Zoo Members can bring their little ones to the Zoo and enjoy story time, arts & crafts, and an animal mingle! This Toddler Tuesday is all about celebrating grandparents in honor of National Grandparents Day! Bring your loved ones this month for story time, arts & crafts and an exclusive animal mingle! www.zootampa.org September 12, 14, 19, 21, 26 & 28 TERRIFIC TOTS AT GREAT EX Join the Great Ex S.T.E.A.M. Team at 9:30am at Sundial in downtown St. Petersburg to participate in this iconic Great Ex program. Terrific Tots is a FREE members-only program that offers a unique bonding experience for children aged 1-3 and their caregivers! Explore art, music and language with your little one in this fun and safe environment. In the beginning of each class we’ll join in sing-a-longs that encourage movement and parent involvement. www.greatex.org September 15 SING-ALONG THE GREATEST SHOWMAN Just like Barnum would have wanted, audiences are transported into a fantasy of spectacle and music for 90+ minutes, and hopefully leave with a fuller appreciation for the magic in their own lives. Come enjoy the beauty of the Tampa Theatre and join in singing the songs from The Greatest Showman one of the most enjoyed musicals in recent film!

www.tampatheatre.org September 15 & 22 TAMPA BAY ROWDIES HOME GAMES Rowdies fans here’s your chance to cheer on your home town team and enjoy a fun filled evening at Al Lang Stadium in St. Pete as the Tampa Bay Rowdies host the Atlanta United FC 2 and the Richmond Kickers! www.rowdiessoccer.com www.gulfcoastfamily.org

September 15 & 22 PRAISE WAVE AT SEAWORLD ORLANDO With the return of Praise Wave, guests can celebrate Christian fellowship and fun at SeaWorld Orlando. Uplifting, live concerts from the hottest names in Christian music will light up the stage at Nautilus Theater at 1:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Featured artists this year include Michael W. Smith and the Newsboys. Guests can also enjoy SeaWorld’s thrilling rides, shows, and attractions. www.seaworld.com

over Tampa Bay to celebrate the beginning of TFO’s new season. Concerts will popup in unexpected places from hospitals and schools to museums and airports! On September 21st the TFO will be performing at the Museum of Fine Arts, at Tampa International Airport, and at the Armature Works. On September 22nd the TFO will perform at the Dunedin Fine Arts Center and at the Leepa-Rattner Museum. For times and more information visit the TFO website or call 892-3331. www.floridaorchestra.org September 21-22 ROCKY BLEIER IN THE PLAY Steelers legend Rocky Bleier makes the play of a lifetime in this highly theatrical, stunningly authentic one-man show. Fourtime Super Bowl champ Bleier performs The Play, written by Pittsburgh Post-

September 21, 22, 28 & 29 HOWL-O-SCREAM BUSCH GARDENS Brave a visit to Howl-O-Scream 2018 during select nights between September 21 and October 28 and be spooked by unexpected terrors around every corner at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay! Experience 300 acres of terrifying horrors and merciless roaming hoards. The park will be open from 7:30 p.m.-1 a.m. Howl-OScream is intended for a mature audience. www.buschgardens.com

September 22 MUSEUM DAY The History Center will offer free admission for all visitors Saturday, Sept. 22 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. as part of Smithsonian magazine’s 14th annual Museum Day, a national celebration of boundless curiosity in which participating museums emulate the free admission policy at the Smithsonian Institution’s Washington DCbased museums. www.tampabayhistorycenter.org

7:00 p.m.

Water Works Park

September 16 & 24 BUCCANEERS HOME GAMES Cheer on your home town Bucs and support your community as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers open their 2018/19 season at home this September playing the Philadephia Eagles and then the Pittsburg Steelers. www.buccaneers.com September 20 MUSIC IN THE MUSEUM AT THE HENRY B. PLANT MUSEUM On the third Thursday of each month visit the Museum at 11 AM to hear a live classical music performance. Live concerts were the most popular daily entertainment at the Tampa Bay hotel, and Music in the Museum restores this authentic tradition.

Enjoy the sounds of the harp, guitar, or violin as you explore the Museum. This program is included with admission to the Museum. www.plantmuseum.com

Gazette sports writer Gene Collier and directed by veteran Broadway performer Scott C. Wise. Set in three bars pivotal to Bleier’s life, The Play takes audiences through his almost unbelievable life story that travels through family, war and into the heart of Steeler Nation. www.strazcenter.org

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September 21-22 TFO ON THE GO For the third year, The Florida Orchestra will send a blitz of community concerts all To advertise, call 727-612-0783

Food truck and concessions available.

September 2018 • 45

September 22 & 23 GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM BIRTHDAY BASH — FREE ADMISSION! Help the GCM celebrate it’s 8th birthday with a throwback to the 80’s! Grab your favorite scrunchy, put a Rubik’s cube in your fanny pack, and meet us at Glazer Children’s Museum – Admission is FREE! www.glazermuseum.org

Theatre presentation of “Judgment at Nuremberg” at the Stageworks Theatre in Tampa. The play focuses on Ernest Janning, one of the most influential German legal minds of the pre war era, and other influential Nazis who face a military tribunal in the second wave of post war trials at Nuremberg. Issues at the forefront of this trial reverberate through history and challenge humanity to this day. www.flholocaustmuseum.org

September 23 TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING ANNUAL FAN FEST The Tampa Bay Lightning will host its annual Fan Fest, presented by Florida Blue, on Sunday, September 23 at AMALIE Arena. Fan Fest will be the first chance for fans to see and interact with the 2018-19 Lightning team. The event is free and open to the public.

As in years past, fans will have the opportunity to watch the Bolts practice, as well as get autographs and selfies with the players participating in training camp. Those in attendance will also enjoy several other in-arena elements, as well as a complete program featuring interviews with players and other personalities. www.nhl.com/lightning

September 30 TFO PERFORMS BEETHOVEN’S SYMPHONY NO. 5 If you only know the beginning—da da da dumm—you’re

missing an amazing journey from darkness to light, conducted by Michael Francis. Come experience the Florida Orchestra as they perform one of the most beloved symphonies of all time. www.rutheckerdhall.com

Have an Event?

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

September 29 WALK TAMPA: BLACK HISTORY TOUR Led by noted local historian Fred Hearns, you’ll tour “the Harlem of the South,” Tampa’s Central Avenue district.

Learn about life in Tampa’s African-American community, from the 1890s through the late 1960s. This outdoor trek begins at the Robert Saunders Public Library and explores the social, political, musical and religious traditions of Black life in Tampa. www.tampabayhistorycenter.org September 29 LUCIA MICARELLI LIVE AT THE STRAZ Fiery violinist Lucia Micarelli made her international name as a soloist with Josh Groban’s world tours —but her role as “Annie” on HBO’s critically-acclaimed series Treme made her a celebrity. Micarelli debuted as a soloist with the Honolulu Symphony Orchestra at six years old, quickly becoming a sensation throughout the islands. She studied at Juilliard and the Manhattan School of Music, there under the tutelage of Pinchas Zukerman, before landing a spot with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra that led to Groban’s tour. A technical wizard, a performance marvel, Micarelli’s towering stage presence keeps critics in awe and audiences on their feet. www.strazcenter.org September 30 A STAGEWORKS THEATRE PRESENTATION OF “JUDGEMENT AT NUREMBURG” The Florida Holocaust Museum and The FHM’s Lawyers of Conscience invite you to attend a Stageworks

46 • September 2018

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

The Gulf Coast Family Weekender FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY AUG31 2 1 Each year, Gulfport, Florida celebrates the end of summer with its largest festival of the year, dedicated to the town’s unofficial mascot and favorite reptile.

Cheer on the USF Bulls as they take on the Elon Phoenix to begin the 2018 season.

8

7

7th Annual Chick-fil-a Fall Stampede Curtis Hixon Park www.childrenscancercenter.org/fall-stampede

Universal Orlando www.universalorlando.com

Rock, ride and rejoice at Rock the Universe only at Universal Studios. Experience a night of soul-stirring songs from Christian music’s hottest stars, alongside awesome rides and attractions. It’s an unforgettable weekend of faith and fun.

14

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

Tampa Bay Resident Special (All September) Clearwater Marine Aqualum www.seewinter.com

USF Bulls vs Elon – 2018 Home Opener Raymond James Stadium www.gousfbulls.com

Gecko Fest Gulfport www.geckofest.com

The 7th Annual Fall Stampede presented by Chick-fil-A benefits the Children’s Cancer Center.

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Tampa Bay Rays – Free Rays Tote Bag Tropicana Field www.tampabay.rays.mlb.com

Pinellas, Hillsborough, Hernando, Citrus, Manatee and, Pasco county residents get a special admission discount all September!

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The Sound of Music Returning to Theaters September 9 & 12 www.fathomevents.com

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Buccaneers vs Eagles www.buccaneers.com

The Tampa Bay Rays host the Oakland Athletics at Tropicana Field.

GO RAYS!

vs

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SWAPtember ZooTampa, Florida Aquarium, and MOSI

ZooTampa, Florida Aquarium, and MOSI members get free reciprocal admission!

(Photo ID required)

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Your Museum Day Live! ticket provides free admission for two people at one of 13 local participating museums. Get your ticket at www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

Happy Anniversary Glazer Museum – Free Admission www.glazermuseum.org

Celebrate Glazer Children’s Museum’s 8th birthday weekend with FREE admission Saturday and Sunday!

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Clearwater Super Boat National Championship Festival www.clearwatersuperboat.com

Select Nights in September and 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.

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

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

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!

September 2018 • 47

About Christ. About Teaching. About Our Students.

Keswick is a school where children can grow, develop, and excel.

Keswick Christian School students are prepared with the faith and strength of character that inspires them to lead and impact the world for Christ.

From the basics, all the way to advanced college preparatory courses, a Keswick education puts your child on a solid academic footing.

In the Upper school, a broad college preparatory curriculum assures academic excellence with AP classes and the KCS Scholars program that enriches their regular classwork.

A Home for Christian families since 1953

Compass is an intensive learning program in the Lower school for gifted students. The focus is on STEM subjects to help students use their unique talents in real world settings. This truly is an education with a higher purpose, where students will be enabled to meet the academic and spiritual challenges of a diverse global society.

Learn more: www.KeswickChristian.org or call 727.393.9100

Infants – 12th grade 10101 54th Avenue North St. Petersburg, Florida 33708