Gulf Coast Family - April 2019

April 2019

Vol. 12 Issue 4

Dungy Diaries page 11

Summer Camp Survival Guide page 12

Sw i n g Into Spring

Family Night Out Coupons  page 24

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 2019

Smiles are like Spring flowers — each one is unique, fresh and beautiful!

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

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

Phothteo of Month

Samantha

N U F e N h t U F e r N e e h U h t F W e e r h e t h ! e W ddss !!

WNheevr eerr EEnn drrvvsee YYYooouuu!!! n v E e r e N e S v o t e e s S N cationns to Ser ve ou! ocaattio Lo to eY 3L n 3 ccatio o s to Ser v L ns 3 io o L 3

Bring in in this ad ad and and get get FREE FREE Bring Bring in this this ad and getand FREE Registration (a $55 value) your Bring in this ad and getand FREE Registration (a $55 value) your Registration (a $55 value) and your 5th week of child care is 1/2 off!

Registration (a $55 value) and off! your 5th 5th week week of of child child care care isis 1/2 1/2 off!

5th week of child care is 1/2 off!

UN F e h t e r Whe s! d n E r e v Ne u Ser ve Yo !

2869 54th 54th Avenue N, N, St. Pete Pete 2869 2869 54thAvenue Avenue N, St. St. Pete 727.521.6931 2869727.521.6931 54th Avenue N, St. Pete

ions to ocat727.521.6931 3 LInfants-VPK • License # C984169

Infants-VPK • License # C984169 727.521.6931 Infants-VPK • License # C984169 Infants-VPK • License # C984169

4500 38th 38th Avenue Avenue N, N, St. St. Pete Pete 4500 Bring this Avenue ad and N, getSt. FREE 4500in38th Pete 727.526.1038 4500727.526.1038 38th N, St. Pete Registration (a Avenue $55 value) and your 727.526.1038 Ages 2-5 (2 large shaded playgrounds) Ages 2-5 (2 large shaded playgrounds) 727.526.1038 5th week of child care is 1/2 off!

Ages 2-5License (2 large shaded playgrounds) # CO40402

#shaded CO40402 Ages 2-5License (2 large playgrounds) License # CO40402 License # CO40402 501 39th Street N, St. Pete

501 50139th 39thStreet StreetN, N, St. St.Pete Pete 727.323.3888 501727.323.3888 39th Street N, St. Pete

727.323.3888 Ages 1-5 • License # CO40399 Ages 1-5 • License # CO40399 Ages 727.323.3888 1-5 • License # CO40399 Ages 1-5 • License # CO40399

FREE VPK VPK FREE FREE VPK FREE VPK ELC Provider ELC Provider

ELC Provider ELC Provider Accredited Preschool Accredited AccreditedPreschool Preschool Preschool HomeAccredited COOKED Meals Meals Included!

Home HomeCOOKED COOKED MealsIncluded!

Included! Our Home COOKED Mission: Developing YoungMeals Minds.Included!

Our parents

rosiesplayschool.com rosiesplayschool.com rosiesplayschool.com rosiesplayschool.com 2 • April 2019

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, 2869 54th Avenue N, St. Pete services, or statements made by advertisers. Neither 727.521.6931 Gulf Coast Family Publications nor the advertisers Infants-VPK • License # C984169 can be held liable for typographical errors, misprints, or misinformation contained herein. The publishers 4500 38th Avenue N, St. Pete reserve the right to edit and refuse editorial and/or 727.526.1038 advertising which does not meet the publication’s Ages 2-5 (2 large shaded playgrounds) standards.

All are reserved.

License rights # CO40402 501 39th Street N, St. Pete

727.323.3888

Ages 1-5 • License # CO40399

Look for Gulf Coast Family in these locations:

FREE

VPK ELC Provider Accredited Preschool Home COOKED Meals Included!

Developing Young Minds. Our parents Our Mission: Developing Young Minds. Our parentsand Mission: staff are PARTNERS, working together to meet Our Our Mission: Developing Young Minds. and staff are PARTNERS, working together Our to parents meet the needs of the children and their families. and staff are working together to meet rosiesplayschool.com Our Mission: Developing Young Our parents andthe the staff needs arePARTNERS, of PARTNERS, the children children working andMinds. their together families. to meet needs and families. and the staff are of PARTNERS, working together to meet needs ofthe the children andtheir their families. the needs of the children and their families.

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

ONLINE DOCTOR $

URGENT CARE $$

EMERGENCY CARE $$$

A COLD

THE FLU

THE PLAGUE

department, which is best saved for, well, emergencies.

We don’t want you visiting the emergency department unnecessarily, which costs much more than an online doctor visit or a trip to urgent care. BayCare is always ready to care for you with BayCareAnywhere doctors available 24/7, local BayCare Urgent Care centers that are open seven days a week with extended hours, and emergency care that’s available at Mease Countryside Hospital. Learn where to get the right care: BayCareKnowWhereToGo.org

At BayCare, we always want our patients to get the best care.

And that means getting the right care at the right place at the right price. So say you’re really sick. If your primary care doctor isn’t available, you may want to chat with a BayCareAnywhere® online doctor, who can evaluate patients and write prescriptions. Or maybe you need to see a doctor in person, which means a trip to your local BayCare Urgent Care, conveniently located next to Mease Countryside Hospital.

And then there’s the Mease Countryside Hospital emergency

OUR NETWORK:

BayCare Behavioral Health • BayCare HomeCare • BayCare Laboratories • BayCare Medical Group • BayCare Outpatient Imaging • BayCare Surgery Centers • BayCare Urgent Care OUR HOSPITALS:

Bartow Regional Medical Center • BayCare Alliant Hospital • Mease Countryside Hospital • Mease Dunedin Hospital • Morton Plant Hospital • Morton Plant North Bay Hospital St. Anthony’s Hospital • St. Joseph’s Hospital • St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital • St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital • St. Joseph’s Hospital-North • St. Joseph’s Hospital-South South Florida Baptist Hospital • Winter Haven Hospital • Winter Haven Women’s Hospital BAYCARE.ORG 19-724400-0319

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

April 2019 • 3

April 2019

19

iMom

to Parent 6 Parent

by Jennifer Beck

Ideas for Spring Fever 19 6Family Fun by iMom.com

7 Movie Night April We Recommend 8 This That You…

Auto Insurance 20 Florida

by Chris Reynolds Pro Dad: The Final Four 22 All Fundamentals Dads Need

9 Heart Gallery

by AllProDad.com

10 April Fun Facts Diaries 11 Dungy

by Tony Dungy, AllProDad.com 12 Summer Camp Survival Guide

13 Summer Camp Directory

Summer Fun 16 Out-of-the-Box Activities for Kids by iMom.com

2019 42 April Events

for Pollinators 28 Gardening

by Kristen Gilpin Tropical Garden 29 The

by Jené VanButsel

30 Species Spotlight: Florida Manatee

by ZooTampa at Lowry Park

and Technology: 23 Teens Safeguarding Your Family

31 3 Questions Every

24 Family Night Out Coupons 26 Earth Day Quiz Family 27 Experience Fun at the Trop!

32 Autism: The Importance

by John Phipps

to Prep for Summer Camp 18 Time

by Charles A. Welborn, MD

Homebuyer Should Ask

by Randy Bowman

of Early Detection and Intervention

by Dawn Magnuson

to be a Joyful Mom 33 6byWays iMom.com

33 It’s Great to Create! on the Family 34 Focus

by Jim Daly Entertainment 37 Evaluating For It’s Message

by PluggedIn.com

is an Adventure 38 Reading

by Judy Adorno

39 Family Library 40 Education Spotlight 42 April 2019 Events 45 Weekender 47 Reader Photos of the Month

“Spring is nature’s way of saying ‘Let’s party!’”

– Robin Williams

47

Reader Photos of the Month

4 • April 2019

Ellie Grace Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Are you ready to

L OV E your smile?

Call or visit our website to schedule your complimentary consultation

250 off

$

727-954-3440 northeastorthodontics.com Braces

Comprehensive Orthodontics

Invisalign for Teens & Adults Modern Digital Imaging Affordable Financing

D8080, D8090

Most Insurance Accepted

The discount will remain available for at least 90 days following the final advertisement.

43rd Ave. N 40th Ave. NE 38th Ave. N

1st St. NE

4th St. N

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St. N

47th Ave. N

4305 4th Street North St. Petersburg, FL 33703

Nick Reynolds dmd, cags

THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT.

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

Licence #DN19672

April 2019 • 5

there have only been a few games, but hey, it’s a much better start than last year!

Parent to Parent The Rays actually ended up doing pretty well last season after their horrible start, and as of this writing, they are in first place for the 2019 season. Granted,

My husband and I both love baseball – I’ve been a Detroit Tigers fan ever since kindergarten, and a Rays fan since we moved to Tampa Bay. And Rodney has probably been a baseball fan ever since he was born.

But our kids really don’t care much about baseball.

Our oldest, David, played tee ball when he was three and four years old. He liked it when he was three, but the next year, he spent a lot more time playing with the grass than he did paying attention to games, and he’s had zero interest in playing or watching any organized sport ever since.

The other three tend to vary in their level of interest.

Hanna is probably the most consistent in wanting to go to games, and she would genuinely be called a Rays fan, although she doesn’t really pay a lot of attention to the game itself. Daniel and Haylee will watch a few innings on TV every once in a while.

But while they would both certainly prefer that the Rays win, the only reason either of them ever wants to go to a game is for the food!

I was listening to an audiobook recently on personality, and one of the chapters was on “heritability”, or the

impact that genetics has on personality traits and attitudes. Research shows that between 20% and 50% of the variability of most traits is linked to genetic differences. But one very notable exception is the attitude toward organized sports, which has a heritability of zero!

Well that explains a lot – I’ve frequently wondered how two parents who enjoy watching sports as much as my husband and I do can have not just one, but four kids who are really pretty uninterested.

I guess now we have a clue. But the flip side, of course, is that if genetics has zero impact on attitudes toward organized sports, then that means that environment has a 100% impact.

So now I have to wonder where we have gone wrong!

Until next time,

Jennifer

Your Children

Legal Services

Legal Services Legal Services Same Day Service for Standard Documents

Living Wills.................................................

Wills • Trusts • Estates • Probate $25 Power of Attorney ...................................... $75 Power of Attorney ................................... $75 Simple Wills ...............................................

Same Day Service for Standard Documents$75 Same Day Service for Standard Documents $150 Complex Wills..........................................

Living Wills................................................. $25 Simple WillsSingle/Couple ......................................... $100 Living Trust, Wills................................................. $25 Living ............. $425/$450 Power of .......................................................

Attorney ......................................

Same Day Service for Standard Documents Power of Attorney ...................................... $75 $75 Same Day Service for Standard Documents $125 Deeds Complex Wills ...................................... $150 Living Wills................................................. $25 Simple Wills ...............................................

Simple Wills ............................................... $75 $75 Probate, Estate and Trust Administration Services Living Wills................................................. $25 Power of Attorney $75$150 Prices do not include...................................... applicable court costs or filing fees.$150 Complex Wills..........................................

Complex Wills..........................................

Power of Attorney ...................................... $75 Living Trust Package, Single/Couple ....$700/$800 Simple Wills ............................................... $75 Living Trust, Single/Couple ............. $425/$450 Simple Wills ............................................... $75 Living Trust, Single/Couple ............. $425/$450 Complex Wills.......................................... $150 Deeds ....................................................... $125 Complex Wills.......................................... $150 Deeds ...................................................

Deeds .......................................................

Living Trust, ............. $425/$450$125 Probate,Single/Couple Estate and Trust Administration Services Living Trust, Single/Couple ............. $425/$450 Probate, Estate and Trust Administration Services Prices do not include applicable court costs or filing fees.$125 Deeds .......................................................

6572 Seminole Blvd., Suite 9, Seminole 393-8822 Deeds .......................................................

Prices do not include applicable court costsServices or filing$125 fees.

Probate, Estate and Trust Administration

lling Now Enro

Fa0l1l8-V20P19K 2

Hands

Certified VPK Provider Ages 2, 3, and Pre-K Year round (7-5:30) Affordable tuition Safe environment Large classrooms Lunch provided

www.thelegalcenterofflorida.com Probate, Estate and Trust Administration Services

152932-01152932-01 152932-01

do not include court costs or filingBefore fees.you decide, ask The hiring of a Prices lawyer is an important decision thatapplicable should not be based solely on advertisements. us to send you free writtendo information about our qualifications andcourt expertise.costs David A. Attorney.

Prices not include applicable orPeek, filing fees.

152932-01

152932-01

Legal Legal Services Services

are in Good

First Baptist Preschool Center

6572 Seminole Blvd., Suite 9, Seminole 393-8822 www.thelegalcenterofflorida.com The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be 9, solely on advertisements.

Before you decide, ask 6572 Seminole Blvd., Suite Seminole 393-8822 6572 Seminole Blvd., Suite 9,based Seminole us to send you free written information about our qualifications David A.393-8822 Peek, Attorney.

6572 Seminole Suite and 9, Seminole 393-8822 10700 Johnson Blvd., Suite 1, expertise.

Seminole 393-8822 www.thelegalcenterofflorida.com www.thelegalcenterofflorida.com www.thelegalcenterofflorida.com www.thelegalcenterofflorida.com of a is lawyer is an important decision thatshould should not solely on advertisements.

Before you decide, askdecide, ask The hiringThe of hiring a lawyer an important decision that notbe bebased based solely on advertisements.

Before you us to send you free written information about our qualifications and expertise. David A. Peek, Attorney.

hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely on advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to sendThe free you written information about ourourqualifications andexpertise. expertise.

David A. Peek, Attorney. usyou to send free written information about qualifications and David A. Peek, Attorney.

6 • April 2019

For more information (727) 544-9465 5495 Park Blvd.

Pinellas Park fbcpp.org/preschool

Free registration with this coupon.* A $100 value.

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

* Preschool only

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Voted Top Work Place in Bay Area!

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

Shazam! – April 5

Billy Batson is a streetwise 14-year-old who can magically transform into the adult superhero Shazam simply by shouting out one word. His newfound powers soon get put to the test when he squares off against the evil Dr. Thaddeus Sivana.

Penguins – April 17

Preschool through 12th Grade on one Beautiful 28-Acre Campus

Disneynature’s all-new feature film “Penguins” is a comingof-age story about an Adélie penguin named Steve who joins millions of fellow males in the icy Antarctic spring on a quest to build a suitable nest, find a life partner and start a family.

Avengers: Endgame – April 26 7777 62nd Avenue N St. Petersburg, FL 33709

727-541-7593 Christ Centered School of Excellence • www.nck12.com

The remaining Avengers must figure out a way to bring back their vanquished allies for an epic showdown with Thanos — the evil demigod who decimated the planet and the universe.

New Client SPE CIA L S 25% OFF

Rebecca Lindquist

ONE SERVICE OR

7145 22nd Ave N St. Petersburg 33710

WITH COLOR SERVICE

727-742-0315 or book online at www.salonlofts.com/rebecca_lindquist

FREE HAIRCUT www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Ploey – April 26

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

A plover chick has not learned to fly when his family migrates in autumn. He must survive the arctic winter, vicious enemies and himself in order to be reunited with his beloved one next spring.

April 2019 • 7

This April we recommend that you…

READ IT

The Runaway Egg!

by Nancy J. Nickel

Written by local author Nancy Nickel, the Runaway Egg follows the adventures of a special egg that escapes from an Easter egg hunt. Through unpredictable circumstances, the egg travels on an incredible journey and discovers the hands that ultimately receive its forever treasure. The Runaway Egg! is a great book for children of all ages! If you would like to contact Nancy for any community, school, or outreach opportunities, simply email her at NancyJNickel@outlook.com.

EXPERIENCE IT

HEAR IT

Tampa Bay Lightning 2019 Divisional Playoffs

On My Side by Kim Walker-Smith Kim Walker-Smith is one of the most influential female voices in Christian music. Fans around the world have come to love her passionate and uninhibited sound. Kim’s latest full-length album, ON MY SIDE, is her first solo studio project, exploring themes of heartbreak and triumph and giving the listener a glimpse into the past few years in her journey of faith.

SEE IT

Starts April

The Tampa Bay Lightning are set to make a big run at the cup this year, and it’s our job to support them! So this April, come out to Amalie Arena and “Be the Thunder” as the Bolts seek to bring the Stanley Cup back to Tampa. For ticket information visit www.nhl.com/lightning.

SUN ’n FUN International Fly-In & Expo April 2–7, Lakeland, Florida

The 45th Annual SUN ‘n FUN Fly-In & Expo kicks off Tuesday, April 2nd and continues through Sunday, April 7th in Lakeland, Florida.

Attendees will enjoy over 450 exhibitors, a Kids Zone play area, tours, displays, a wide variety of food vendors, car shows, evening entertainment, and much more. The Navy’s Blue Angels headline this year’s Sun ’n Fun Fly-In with shows Thursday through Sunday.

The Saturday evening program will include fireworks with a night airshow. Details and directions are available at www.flysnf.org.

8 • April 2019

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

SURF IT

www.funology.com Funology.com delivers just what the name implies — FUN! The site offers a large selection of activities for kids and promises to be the “one place where you’ll never be bored!” Kids can have so much fun, they won’t even realize they are learning.

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Faith Foundation Future

Dashawn Age 10

St. John Vianney Catholic School VPK-8th Grade Accepting Step Up and

500 84th Ave St. Pete Beach, FL 33706 727-360-1113

Get Spotted

19 amily F t s a o C Gulf in the 20

editions

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Kind and polite, Dashawn says he is happiest when he is in a loving home.

For fun he likes playing basketball.

Dashawn’s favorite food is lasagna, but he’ll pass on broccoli. Dashawn’s favorite animals are dogs. He would love to have a dog as a pet someday. Dashawn likes most that he is smart and hopes to make a lot of money someday. In school, Dashawn’s favorite subject is math, something he’s also very good at. He’s also good at playing basketball. Dashawn’s other favorites include the color white and rap music.

Dashawn only has one request of his ideal forever family – to have a mom who would love him.Kyle needs a forever family that will keep him involved in pursuing his passions while pushing him to achieve his dreams.

Isaiah Age 13

Photo courtesy of Johnathan R Photography

McKay Scholarships

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Summer Camp Special: sign a 3 month contract and

YOUR 4TH MONTH IS FREE

To advertise, call

727-612-0783

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

Photo courtesy of Brandi Image Photography

Do you have room in your heart and home for a waiting child?

Isaiah is the sweet, quiet type, but once he gets to know you, he opens up.

Isaiah is happiest when he’s watching television, especially his favorite show, SpongeBob SquarePants. But he also like watching The Flash, and wishes he had super speed just like him. For fun, Isaiah enjoys playing outside, especially when he gets to play football. In school, Isaiah’s favorite subject is math. There’s nothing Isaiah doesn’t like to eat, but his favorite food is pepperoni pizza. Isaiah’s other favorites include the color orange, dogs, and the rapper Drake. Being a good person is what Isaiah likes most about himself. If he could change the world, he would make everyone nice just like him.

Isaiah’s ideal forever family includes a mom and dad.

Having siblings is also OK.

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

April 2019 • 9

5 Earth Day Activities

A p ri l FU N FACTS

Over 5.5 million Peeps Marshmallow Chicks are made each day at the Peeps factory in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Peeps candies have been the most popular non-chocolate Easter candy in the United States for more than a decade – even more popular than jelly beans. Peeps are sometimes jokingly described as the “indestructible” candy; however, most kids

can devour them in seconds!

Every year on April 22, over a billion people in 190 countries take action for Earth Day. Here are five simple ways to make this Earth Day a family affair.

1. Start a Compost Bin: Composting makes use of kitchen and garden scraps to create black gold, nutrients for the plants in your garden.

2. Check Your Footprint: The Earth Day Network site has a Footprint Calculator that will show you how your lifestyle affects the environment.

3. Get Back in the Kitchen: By hitting the drive-through less often, you can reduce the amount of packaging material you contribute to landfills.

4. Plant a Seed: Planting a garden is one of the best ways to share the Earth with your children.

5. Volunteer: When you lend a hand on Earth Day, you help your neighbors and teach your children that becoming involved is worth one of your most precious gifts—your time.

Easter is considered one of the oldest and most joyous days on the Christian calendar. Also known as Resurrection Sunday or Pascha, the festival of redemption, Easter is the day Christians celebrate the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus the Christ. Easter Sunday is also typically the most wellattended Sunday service of the year for Christian churches.

April 21, 2019

1861 was the first year the U.S. income tax was levied upon the American people. President Abraham Lincoln signed into law this revenue raising method to help the federal government pay for the expenses of the Civil War. Tax Day this year is April 15, the last day on which tax returns can be mailed to avoid penalties. So mark your calendars and make sure to mail your return out on time to avoid some tax battles of your own.

4,106 hours is the amount of time the average American spent last year in front of a screen consuming media. Screen-Free Week is April 29th through May 5th. This April try putting down your tablet or PC and heading outdoors. You can do some gardening, go for a walk, fly a kite, read a good book or even write a few letters.

Pinellas Park Title Co.

Tax Day 2019

Excellent Service With Savings!

» A+ rated with BBB. » In business for over 32 years.

REALean Evolve Real Estate

» We close anytime, anywhere at no extra charge.

727-541-7716

evelync@pinellasparktitle.com www.pinellasparktitle.com 10 • April 2019

Nick Sparta

Broker Associate Realtor

6075 Park Blvd, Suite B Pinellas Park, FL 33781 Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

727-215-9304 n.sparta@hotmail.com www.REALean.com

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

a higher level of success? We should be asking ourselves, how do others around me flourish as a result of my leadership?

Do they flourish at all? How does my leadership, my involvement in their lives—in whatever setting we’re in— have a positive and lasting influence and impact on them?

DUNGY DIARIES

HOW ARE YOU

INFLUENCING THOSE AROUND YOU?

Are we taking every opportunity to have a positive impact?

by Tony Dungy When life in the workplace is all about results and outcomes, it’s easy to adopt the same mind-set in other venues as well. Thus, we have parents who scream at the umpire at Little League games, or browbeat their kids into getting straight A’s, or harp on the players they coach in Pee Wee football about being “mentally tough.” At home, in the limited time left for family, they’re tempted to criticize if the house isn’t just so or to cram in everything they want their spouses or kids to know, instead of taking time to build the kind of family relationships that God intends.

In our society, whether we’ll admit it or not, the prevailing attitude is that the ends justify the means. We tell ourselves that “quality time” can make up for a lack of quantity time and that as long as we achieve whatever temporary, worldly goal we’re pursuing, all is well. Just keep climbing. We think our

spouses and kids need us first to be successful, and then we’ll have time to be an important part of their lives.

Are our values misplaced?

We rationalize this kind of fuzzy thinking until we really begin to believe that our example, our impact, and our value to others—family, friends, and coworkers— are measured by what we produce and by the worldly things we accumulate. Our society loves and respects awards, degrees, money, status, achievement, and image. Just look at the accolades we heap upon business tycoons, movie stars, professional athletes…and football coaches.

But without meaningful relationships, relationships we invest ourselves in, what does it all amount to? That’s an easy one to answer: dust.

Cornerstone

Are we focused on what matters?

If you take only one thing from this post, let it be this: Relationships are ultimately what matter—our relationships with God and with other people. The key to becoming, what I call a mentor leader, is learning how to put other people first.

You see, the question that burns in the heart of the mentor leader is simply this: What can I do to make other people better, to make them all that God created them to be?

How are we influencing those around us?

A life spent focused on things of the world will not add value to the lives of others. Instead of asking, how can I lead my company, my team, or my family to

Simply stated, leadership is influence.

By influencing another person, we lead that person. Leadership is not dependent on a formal position or role. We can find opportunities for leadership wherever we go. Likewise, leadership is not based on manipulation or prescription, though sometimes it may appear that way to an outside observer. By keeping our motives aligned with doing the best for those around us, we will keep ourselves focused on being a positive influence.

Sound off: If influence, involvement, improvement, and impact are core principles of mentor leadership, how can we make them central to everything we do?

AllProDad.com

Now Enrolling for Fall

Christian School

The Proven Education Your Child Deserves • Preschool – 8th Grade • Christ Centered • Safe, Nurturing Environment • Excellent Curriculum • Extended Care Available 7am to 6pm • Affordable Tuition!!

FREE

PRESCHOOL!

727-733-1438

We are offering an Upscale Blend of high quality Clothing, Shoes & Accessories in an inviting “boutique” setting.

You will also find Furniture, Household Goods, Toys and more.

SCHOLARSHIPS SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE! AVAILABLE! Step Up for Students (sufs.org) McKay Gardiner

317 Milwaukee Ave., Dunedin, FL 34698 www.cornerstonechristianfl.org www.gulfcoastfamily.org

All proceeds support the ministry of Keswick Christian School.

Call today to schedule your personal tour!

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

We are committed to Community Investment through participation in a FREE Clothing Voucher program.

Be a part of changing lives ... visit our store and ... be pleasantly surprised!

6225 Seminole Boulevard Seminole • 202-6986 Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm Saturday 9am-5pm

53112

April 2019 • 11

Inclusive

Summer Camps!

Led by certified therapists and teachers Targeted skills embedded in fun activities Small class sizes Weekly Sessions Beginning June 3rd Tarpon Springs

(727) 234-0924 Big Accomplishments start with

Ah spring, when the sun shines and a parent’s mind turns to thoughts of…summer break!

OVERNIGHT CAMPS

Day Cam

p

When most people think of camp, they think of the sleepaway model, where campers bunk up with friends and tell stories around a bonfire. However, don’t be limited to the classic nature camp as Overnight Camps come in all shapes and sizes, from survival style camps, to overnight arts and computer camps. How do you know if your child is ready for an overnight camp?

Monday through Friday

June 3 – August 9 7 AM – 6 PM

Ulmerton Rd

113th St N

Seminole Blvd

Exciting Field Trips Crafts Dramas Seminole Assembly Ministries 10600 113th Street N Seminole, FL 33778 Activities & More!

102nd Ave N

Half Day & Full Day – Register Today!

12 • April 2019

by Sarah Cole, Glazer Children’s Museum

If you are like many parents, you’re already planning summer activities for your youngsters, which might include summer camp.

Here are some things to consider if you are planning summer camp experiences for kids.

www.minorachievements.com

727-391-9788 www.seminoleag.org

Summer Camp Survival Guide

Bryan Dairy Rd

Park Blvd

• In general, children around age 8 are ready for an overnight camp experience.

• Is he comfortable staying the night away from home? Do a few test runs – such as a weekend at a friend’s house – just to be safe.

• Is she self sufficient? Does she get ready for bed and get ready in the morning by herself?

• Consider the location of the camp. A camp you have in mind but which is farther away may sound amazing, but for the first few times, a camp closer to home may be a safer option.

DAY CAMPS AND COMMUTER CAMPS For those who want a great camp experience for their child but without the stress or parameters of the overnight, commuter camps and day camps are great options and are becoming the new standard of

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

Summer Camp. These camps will range from a few hours to an entire day, but your child will be home for dinner! Commuter Camps generally take children to a camp location, where they spend the day in activities, whereas Day Camps are held at a variety of locations, from schools and churches to YMCAs and museums or cultural centers. Day Camps typically offer a range of themes and activities, appealing to a much broader range of interests and abilities. These are a particularly ideal choice for younger campers.

If you are thinking about sending your preschooler to camp for the first time, consider the following: • Has he had experience in a formal classroom (church school, day care, etc)?

• Has she spent an extended period of time away from you?

• Is he toilet trained? (Many camps will not allow children in diapers to attend.)

• Try a few days or a week to test things out. If you are unsure if your child will be okay on her own, it may be wise to only sign up for a short stint at first.

Many Day Camps offer half days for younger campers.

Camp experiences are a great part of childhood! They provide educational, social and active experiences that help kids grow and mature, connecting them to each other and the world around them.

Check out local camps at area museums, parks and schools for great offerings around Tampa Bay (for a list of camps, check out our Summer camp directory in this issue). www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Summer Camp Directory Here is a listing of some fantastic summer camps for children here in the Tampa Bay area. Included in our summer camp directory are arts and drama camps, theme camps, sports camps, preschool camps and many more. All of these camps are open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. So reserve your spot soon.

See our interactive map online at gulfcoastfamily.org

Adventure Club at Countryside CC 1850 North McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater 727-799-1618 ext. 1012 adventureclub.cc

City of Largo Summer Camps 727-518-3016 – Highland Recreation largocamps.com

Anona Christian Center Summer Camp 13233 Indian Rocks Rd, Largo 727-595-2581 ext. 292 anona.com

City of Tampa Summer Camps 813-274-3345 tampagov.net/SummerCamp

Busch Gardens Summer Camp for Wild Things 877-BGT-CAMP buschgardens.org Calvary Chapel Kids Camp 8900 US-19, Pinellas Park 727-577-7705 www.calvarystp.org/kids Camp Gilead 1444 Camp Gilead Drive, Polk City 863-984-1353 campgilead.com

Clearwater Marine Aquarium Clearwater 727-441-1790 x252 seewinter.com Dance Central Summer Camps 12527 Ulmerton Rd, Largo 727-386-0586 thedance-central.com Dunedin Parks and Recreation Day Camps Dunedin Community Center & MLK Jr. Rec. Center 727-738-2920 dunedinGov.com/camps

Camp Invention 800-968-4332 x6920 campinvention.org

Eckerd College Summer Watersports Camp 4200 54th Ave S, St. Petersburg 727-864-8288 eckerd.edu/waterfront/

Camp Seal 19501 Holly Lane, Lutz 813-229-7946 www.sealswimschool.com

First United Methodist Summer Camps 212 3rd St. N., St. Petersburg 727-894-4661 www.fumcsp.com

Champion Tae Kwon Do Summer Camp 7590 Starkey Road, Seminole For our complete listing of over 100 summer camps here in the Tampa Bay (727) 399-2999 championtaekwondo.net Area, visit our interactive online directory at www.gulfcoastfamily.org.

Circle F Dude Ranch Our summer camp directory contains detailed camp information, links to Lake Wales camp web sites and printable directions.

863-676-4113 circlefduderanchcamp.com

Florida Aquarium AquaCamps 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa (813) 273-4015 www.flaquarium.org Glazer Children’s Museum Camp Connect Tampa 813-443-FUN1 (3861) glazermuseum.org

LOTS OF FUN!!

CHECK OUT OURTOTALLY COOL

SUMMER CAMPS!

FOR BEGINNER THROUGH ADVANCED SKATERS! Learn to Skate Camps • Hockey Camps • Advanced Figure Skating Camps On Ice and Off Ice Activities • Includes Skating Instruction

OLDSMAR

CLEARWATER 13940 ICOT Blvd 727-536-5843

ATTENTION CAMP DIRECTORS!

Keep your campers cool this summer...

Daily Open Sessions with Special Group Rates!

255 Forest Lakes Blvd 813-854-4010 x0

COUNTRYSIDE

Westfield Countryside Mall

727-723-7785

10% DISCOUNT

on summer camp registration when you mention this ad (not valid with any other offer) www.gulfcoastfamily.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

April 2019 • 13

Don’t miss the fun this

Great Explorations Children’s Museum Summer Camp 1925 4th St N, St. Petersburg 727-821-8992 greatex.org Independent Day School Camp IDS 12015 Orange Grove Dr, Tampa 813-961-3087 idsyes.com

Join us for a variety of summer camps +Vacation Bible School

IRCS Summer Sports Camp 12685 Ulmerton Road, Largo (727) 596-7192 www.ircs.org

VBS

JMAC Kids Summer Camp 2177 NE Coachman Rd, Clearwater 727-430-3902 jmackids.com

June 24–28

Keswick Summer Sports Camp 10101 54th Ave N, St. Petersburg (727) 393-9100 www.keswickchristian.org Largo Cultural Center Summer Theatre Camps Largo Cultural Center 727-587-6751 largoarts.com

First United Methodist Church

212 3rd Street North St. Petersburg, FL 33702

www.fumcsp.com/ministries/kids

LCC Day School Summer Camp 4400 Chancellor St NE, St. Petersburg 727-522-8331 lccdayschool.com

Contact: Lora UIrich 727-894-4661, ext 2125 lulrich@fumcsp.org

Liberty Bowling Summer Camp 11401 Starkey Rd, Largo 727-397-3947 libertylanesbowling.com

Age 3 – 5th Grade June 24-28 9:00–12:00 $35 9:00–5:00 (+Art camp) $180 9:00–5:00 (+Science/Nature) $180

ART CAMP Camp Friendship

2nd–5th Grade June 3–7 June 24–28 July 8–12 July 15–19

Age 3–1st Grade July 8–12 9:00–1:00 July 15–19 9:00–1:00

1st–5th Grade June 10–14 July 29–Aug 2

Science & Nature 14 • April 2019

9:00–1:00 9:00–5:00 (+Roar! VBS) 9:00–1:00 9:00–1:00

2nd–6th Grade June 3-7 June 24–28 July 8-12 July 15-19

$125 $180 $125 $125 $100 $100

9:00–1:00 9:00–1:00

$125 $125

9:00–5:00 9:00–5:00 (+Roar VBS) 9:00–1:00 9:00–5:00

$180 $180 $125 $180

Lowry Park Zoo Summer Camps Tampa 813-935-8552 lowryparkzoo.com Mathnasium Summer Camp 3451 4th Street North, St. Petersburg 727-823-6284 mathnasium.com/stpetersburg Mary Jo’s Performing Arts Academy 15906 Mapledale Blvd, Tampa 813-969-0210 mjpaa.com Minor Achievements 113 S. Disston Ave, Tarpon Springs 727-234-0924 minorachievements.com

Pinellas Preparatory Academy Summer Camp 2300 S. Belcher Road, Largo 727-536-3600 pinellasprep.org Plato Academy Summer Camp 2045 Palmetto Street, Clearwater 727-301-1590 platoacademy.net PLAY Performing Arts 1920 1st Ave S, St. Petersburg 727-393-7625 playstpete.com/summer R’Club Summer Camps 727-578-5437 rclub.net Robotics Summer Camp Tampa • Brandon • Trinity 813-249-5522 funwithbots.com Saddle Up Riding Club 9301 62nd Street, Pinellas Park 727-520-3132 saddleupridingclub.org Saint Paul’s School Summer Camps 1600 St. Paul’s Dr, Clearwater 727-536-2756 st.pauls.edu Seminole Assembly Adventure Kids 10600 113th St N, Seminole 727-391-9788 seminoleag.org Shorecrest Summer Camps 5101 1st St N, St. Petersburg 727-522-2111 x173 shorecrest.org Soul Adventures Camps at Skycrest 129 North Belcher Rd, Clearwater 727-797-1186 souladventures.us SPCA Tampa Bay Summer Camp 9099 130th Ave. N., Largo 727-586-3591 spcatampabay.org St. Jerome ECC Summer Camp 10895 Hamlin Blvd, Largo 727-596-9491 stjeromeearlychildhoodcenter.org

MOSI Summer Science Camps 4801 E Fowler Ave, Tampa 813-987-6000 mosi.org

St. Petersburg Christian School Sonny Days Camp 2021 62nd Ave N, St. Petersburg 727-522-3000 stpetechristian.com

Northside Christian School Paradise Summer Camp 7777 62nd Ave N, St. Petersburg 727-647-0349 nck12.com

St. Petersburg Country Club Summer Camp 2000 Country Club Way, St. Petersburg 727-867-2111 stpetecountryclub.com

Patel Conservatory Dance, Theater, and Music Summer Camps 813-222-1002 patelconservatory.org

St. Petersburg Sailing Center Summer Sailing Camp 11 Central Ave, St. Petersburg 727-822-3873 spyc.org/sailingcamp

Pinellas County Summer Camps 333 Chestnut Street, Clearwater 727-464-4600 pinellascounty.org/ summercamps

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

Starkey Road Baptist Church Sports Camp 8800 Starkey Rd, Seminole 727-397-1654 srbc.org www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Sylvan Robotics and Coding Camps 3951 Tyrone Blvd. St. Petersburg 727-347-6284 sylvanlearning.com/stpetersburg Tampa Bay History Center Adventure Camp 801 Old Water Street, Tampa 813-228-0097 tampabayhistorycenter.org Tampa Bay Ice Summer Camp 255 Forest Lakes Blvd, Oldsmar 13940 ICOT Blvd, Clearwater Westfield Countryside Mall tampabayice.com

813-854-4010 727-536-5843 727-723-7785

The Florida Aquarium AquaCamps 813-273-4015 flaquarium.org Tutterow Dancers 452 5th Ave SE, Largo 727-585-1232 tutterowdancers.com

Paradise Summer Camp 2019 Rising K - 6th Grade

Word of Life Florida Youth 877-412-8687 wolflorida.org Xtreme Fun Center Summer Sports Camp 13211 93rd St N, Largo 727-584-9876 xtremefuncenter.com YMCA Summer Camps ymcatampabay.org To have your camp listed in Gulf Coast Family’s printed summer camp guide, call 727-612-0783 or visit gulfcoastfamily.org.

Saddle Up Riding Club Horseback lessons Barn Times – kids learn to care for and ride horses Equine Therapy Summer Horse Camps

7 Amazing Weeks of Camp!

June: 3, 10, 17, and 24 July: 8, 15, and 22

Northside Christian School www.saddleupridingclub.org 727-520-3132

www.nck12.com

Saddle Up Riding Club, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization under the regulations of the Internal Revenue Service.

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

April 2019 • 15

What project or interest has been put on the back burner for weeks or months? Pull it out and dust it off!

Kids can complete a summer scrapbook, create a video montage or short film, or perfect their free throw shot.

imom.com

Learning Outside the Classroom Take learning beyond academics and cook some new recipes together, explore a nature preserve, or practice teamwork on a ropes course with friends or family. Take a park district class on animal tracking or bugs or how to identify trees by their leaves. Use a trip to the beach to learn about sea creatures or an amusement park day to learn about budgeting and time management.

Just for Fun

imom.com

by Carrington Cunnington, IMOM.com What parent hasn’t gotten one week into summer vacation without hearing those dreaded words: “I’m bored!”? For most kids, there is no shortage of time over summer break, but another day at the playground or picnic on the lawn might not always feel compelling.

It’s time to brainstorm some out-of-the-box summer ideas to shake things up a bit! Summer is a great time to tackle goals, learn a new skill, or pursue a favorite interest. Use the following fun activities to get your

wheels spinning on how to fill those sunny days, which are just around the corner.

Achievement Oriented

Don’t forget the simple pleasures of a childhood summer. Go out for ice cream, enjoy a summer blockbuster in the theater, or try out a new restaurant.

Walk barefoot in fresh water, meander downstream in a canoe, ride a tandem bike, or visit a carnival or amusement park and wander the grounds with a big wad of cotton candy. Make some fresh-squeezed lemonade and sell it to your neighbors on the street corner. Have a yard sale and let your kids help with the organizing, sorting, and selling.

Kids Easter Eggstravaganza Free summer days are a great opportunity to apply some hard work and accomplish goals. Maybe this is the summer your child learns to swim, masters a twowheeler, authors a long story, or completes drivers’ ed.

Saturday, April 20 1:00 PM

Thousands of Easter Eggs, Activities, and Games Three separate age groups Free Kona Ice! Free Admission!

727-391-9788 www.seminoleag.org 16 • April 2019

113th St N

10600 113th Street N

102nd Ave N

Seminole Blvd

Ulmerton Rd

Seminole Assembly

Bryan Dairy Rd

Park Blvd

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Programs or Camps

Close to Home

The opportunities for summer camps are almost endless. Drama camp, sports camp, art camp, horsemanship camp, and overnight camps. Check out the offerings at the local park district, YMCA, or Boys and Girls Club. Museums, arboretums, historic sites and churches offer a wide variety of activities.

Look for programs at local animal shelters or become regular volunteers at a charitable organization.

Time, expense, or schedules may keep you close to home this summer. No worries. Take the opportunity to explore your hometown in a new way. Pretend you are tourists and go to a museum, take a walking tour, camp in the backyard, host a slumber party or visit a new park every week. Watch a sunset. Watch a sunrise.

Stay up all night in between if it sounds fun! Sleep in, paint a mural, bake cookies or build something out of duct tape. Compile a summer reading list and take turns reading, or have your kids read out loud to a pet. Visit the library, build a massive lego creation, or tackle a home improvement project.

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$ $$$$$$$$$some $ $$$$$$ $ $$$$$$$ $$$$Save $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$$$$$$$$some $$$$$$ $ $$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$ $$$$$ $$$$$$$ $ $ $ $ $$ $$$$$$$$$$$$Save $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$$$$$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$Save $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ some $$$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$Save $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ some $$$$ $$$$$$$$ $$$$$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Once in a Lifetime $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$Save $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ some $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$Go $$ $$$with $ $ Go w $ $ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$ $$$$$Go $ with $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$ Go with $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$

GREEN GREEN GREEN

Is this the summer for a big to-do? Plan a vacation to a place you’ve never been. Road trip to some national parks. Build a tree house in the backyard, a clubhouse in the basement, or a fort in the woods. Invent a new game, host a family reunion, spend a day at the horse races, or walk part of the Appalachian trail.

www.MontessoriAtSylvanAbbey.com

Go with

$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$ $$$$$

We you put you in controlofofthe theshopping shopping anytime, anyplace. $$put in control anytime, anyplace. $We We put you in control of the shopping anytime, anyplace.

Andy Brown Insurance makes it as easy as 1 Click in

Accepting Ages 2 – 6 and FREE Immediate space available all ages Tours available Monday – Friday from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 – 5:30 p.m.

Call to schedule your tour today!

Convinently located serving Clearwater, Countryside, Dunedin, Palm Harbor and Safety Harbor

GREEN GREEN

Andy Brown Insurance makes it as easy as 21Answer Click in a few simple questions WeAndy put you in control of themakes shopping anytime, anyplace.

Brown Insurance it32as easy asatoday 1few Click in questions Answer simple Start saving Start in saving today a few simple qu 2 Answer We put youInsurance in control of the anyplace.

Andy Brown makes it asshopping easy as 3 1 anytime, Click

ABI ABI ABI ABI ABI

Answer simplesaving questions 3 Start today Andy Brown Insurance makes it as easy as 12Click in a few Start saving 23Answer a few today simple questions 3 Start saving today

ANDY BROWN INSURANCE

Registering NOW for the

2019–20 school year

$50 OFF

our regular registration fee with this ad

Get a free quote online from your smart phone or computer!

www.AndyBrownInsurance.com ANDY BROWN INSURANCE

2401 West BayINSURAN Drive ANDY BROWN INSURANCE www.AndyBrownInsurance.com ANDY BROWN 727-586-1601 ANDY BROWN INSURANCE Largo, FL 33770

www.AndyBrownInsurance.com Get a free quote online www.AndyBrownInsuranc www.AndyBrownInsurance.com 2401 West Bay Drive from your smart phone Get a free quote online 2817 Sunset Point Rd, Clearwater 2401 West Drive Largo, FLBay 33770 Call Today! montessorisylvanabbey@gmail.com Get aa free quote onlineonline Get free quote from your smart phone or computer!

2401 West Bay Drive 2401 Wes 727-586-1601 Largo, FL 33770 smart phone 727.223.5907 www.MontessoriAtSylvanAbbey.com fromoryour computer!

727-586-1601 727-586-1601

License #52-51-1527138

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

from your smart phone or computer! or computer!

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

727-586-1601 Largo, FL 33770 Largo, FL April 2019 • 17

ECKERD COLLEGE

Time to Prep for Summer Camp by

by Charles Charles A. A. Welborn, Welborn, MD, MD, MPH, MPH, FAAP, FAAP, FACEP FACEP Medical Director, After Hours Pediatrics Medical Director, After Hours Pediatrics Urgent Urgent Care Care

WEEKLY CLASSES HALF & FULL DAY J UNE 3 - AUGUST 2 AGES 5-17 OPEN ENROLLMENT

SAILING, WINDSURFING, PADDLESPORTS, LITTLE MARINERS, FISHING, CHILDREN’S MARINE DISCOVERY, EXPLORING MARINE LIFE, AND WAKEBOARDING!

Learn how to live before you 727.864.8288 learn eckerd.edu/waterfront/camp how to make a living 26

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the summer camp experience “has proven to have a lasting effect on psychological development, including significant effects on self esteem, peer relationships, independence, leadership, values and willingness to try new things.”

With that, children generally like to participate in group activities and share among themselves while at summer camp; therefore, it is not uncommon for ‘little’ epidemics of minor illness to sweep through camps. These may include conjunctivitis (pink eye), strep throat, stomach viruses, etc. While some of this is inevitable, the occurrences can be lessened in two ways. The first is if your child is obviously ill, do not send him to camp. You will only help spread his illness to the other campers. The second, it is the camp’s responsibility to send home any child that is sick in order to limit the spread of the illness.

TampaBayParenting.com MARCH 2019

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

New York | Florida | Ontario, Canada | South Korea

18 • April 2019

What other health issues should you prepare for when sending your child to summer camp? Camps offer a wide range of activities and almost all programs have some level of physical exercise. Combine this with the general enthusiasm of children and there are bound to be bruises, minor cuts, falls, and occasionally more serious injuries such as broken bones. The best medicine here is prevention: camps that stress proper supervision of play time and physical activities have lower rates of injury.

If you are considering what camp may be best for your child, here are a few items to think about. Ensure the camp activities are appropriately matched to your child’s medical needs. For many children, this may be as simple as having a camp physical performed with your primary care provider to validate their good health. For those children

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

with ongoing medical concerns such as asthma, anaphylactic allergies, seizures or diabetes, for example, the routine activities of the camp should not place the child as risk for exacerbating any of these conditions.

Next, if the camp is a sleep-away camp, it should be able to provide basic medical care for a child with ongoing medical needs. Staff should be trained in basic medical first aid and CPR, and should be qualified to store and administer any medications that your child will need away from home. If your child attends a day camp, staff should have basic first aid training, CPR and, depending on your child’s needs, be able to administer necessary medications. Whatever the type of camp, it is very important that the camp staff is aware of your child’s medical needs so they can be proactive in anticipating those needs.

Finally, parents must ensure the camp meets the needs of their child’s interest and skills, so it is important to match the interests of the child to the camp offerings. Look at the mission and goals of the camp, speak with the camp directors, and discuss the possibilities with your child in order to find the best placement.

Dr. Charles A. Welborn is a board certified pediatrician at After Hours Pediatrics Urgent Care (www.afterhourspediatrics.com). www.gulfcoastfamily.org

imom.com

Some of my favorite memories as a child are from springtime, that time of year when kids can run free and break off the constraints of being stuck in the house all winter.

There really is something wonderful about looking around and seeing the first bloom of spring or the smiles on people’s faces as they bask in the glow of the spring sun.

Spring is all about new life. In fact, all aspects of our lives could benefit from a little spring fever—that renewed energy and optimism that brings us out of the blahs of winter into the glories of spring.

Here are 6 ideas for spring fever family fun.

1 Family Bubbles

Get everyone, and we mean everyone—Mom, Dad, teenagers, and little kids— armed with bubbles. Give everyone their own bottle of bubbles and head outdoors for a bubble war.

2 Balloon Battle

The preparation for this one is a riot on its own. As you’re filling up your water balloons, you’ll likely have many that will pop. It will just add to the fun. Once you have a basket full of filled balloons, let the battle begin. If it is too cold for water, fill the balloons with air and head to the basement to swat them around.

3 Outdoor Fun

If the weather is warm enough where you live, head outside. We have 15 backyard family games to keep you busy. Visit www.imom.com/15-backyardgame-instructions to print out the cards for the 15 Fun Backyard Games and place them in a hat. Let your children draw a card and head to the great outdoors to get the fun started.

4 Food Adventure

Mix in a little learning with a little snacking. Teach your child about different kinds of fruits and veggies that they normally don’t eat. First, see if you and your kids even recognize some of these! Then have them choose one new food to try.

5 Game Time

If it’s rainy out, head indoors and have a game day. Let each child choose a game and set the timer for 20 minutes. When the timer goes off, the game is over and you move onto the next one. See which of these board games your family might enjoy. Here are some fun board games that will get your whole family laughing and learning together: Candyland, Chutes and Ladders, Cootie, What’s Gnu?, Monopoly Junior, Tip It!, Trouble, Monopoly, Life, Imaginiff…, Scrabble, Apples to Apples, Pictionary, Taboo, Scattergories, Cranium, Guesstures, and Mad Gab.

6 Pedal and Picnic

Ride your bikes to a picnic spot and enjoy your goodies under the spring sky.

Pack a Frisbee® and a ball to play with while you’re there. Make a special treat like homemade whoopee pies for a fun picnic surprise.

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

April 2019 • 19

Florida Automobile Insurances Coverage Overview

by Chris Reynolds

We often hear people tell us that they have “full coverage” for their vehicle, but what does that really mean?

In truth, saying you have “full coverage” doesn’t really mean anything. Florida has minimum requirements for motor vehicle insurance, but there is no definition for anything called “full coverage.”

As you will see, the minimum coverage required in Florida (that many drivers have) does not cover much.

Under Florida Statute 627.733, every vehicle owner must have two minimum coverages: (1) property damage (PD) in the amount of at least $10,000, and (2) personal injury protection (PIP) in the amount of at least $10,000.

PD coverage only covers property of someone else if you are at fault. PD coverage does not cover your own vehicle. If you want coverage for your own vehicle for an accident, you need comprehensive and collision coverage, though these are not required when purchasing insurance. Also, the minimum coverage required is $10,000 in PD, and we often see at fault drivers that cause significantly more than $10,000 in damage, or accidents involving multiple vehicles where the total damage to all vehicles far exceeds $10,000.

Two common issues with the minimum property damage coverage arise: (1) If you are at fault in an accident and the property damage you cause is more than $10,000, you may be personally liable to anything over $10,000; and (2) If you are not at fault, but do not have comprehensive and collision coverage, you may end up having to pay for your own damage to your vehicle if the at-fault driver has no valid automobile insurance.

As for PIP (personal injury protection), the only other type of required automobile insurance, this coverage typically only covers the person who purchased the vehicle (and possibly family members or occupants of the insured vehicle). This $10,000 is generally for medical expenses (80%) and lost wages (60%) for the person who purchased the insurance, regardless of who is at fault. If you have a car and purchased automobile insurance, this PIP covers you (and possibly family members and people in your car), but does not cover people in other vehicles involved in an accident.

That’s it for the required automobile insurance coverage in Florida. Florida law requires only that you have

20 • April 2019

coverage that pays for damage to other people’s property, and for medical bills for you (but not for other people). If someone else is at fault in a motor vehicle accident and you are injured, there is no requirement in Florida that the other driver/vehicle have insurance that will cover your injuries.

There is no requirement in Florida that anyone have bodily injury coverage (BI). BI is what would cover you if you are at-fault in an accident and injure someone. Put another way, if someone else hits you and they are at-fault in the accident causing you injury, there is no requirement in Florida that the at-fault driver have insurance (BI) that will cover your injuries.

The best way to protect yourself from other drivers on the road with no BI is to have uninsured motorist coverage (UM) on your policy. If you are injured due to the fault of someone else, and if they don’t have BI, then you are still covered for your injuries if you have UM. However, you can only get UM if you also get BI, and your UM coverage limits cannot be higher than your BI limits. For example, if you have $10,000 in BI to cover injuries to others if you are at fault, then you cannot have more than $10,000 in UM to protect you if you are hit by an at-fault driver with no BI. Or, if you have $100,000 in BI, you are allowed to have UM in an amount that is $100,000 or less.

Keeping in mind that automobile injuries often incur tens of thousands of dollars in medical bills, it beSay you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

comes obvious that the minimum insurance coverage required in Florida is unlikely to be sufficient.

The best way to protect yourself is to make sure you have UM, BI and more than the minimum $10,000 in PD, as well as comprehensive and collision coverage.

The increased PD amount will protect you if you are in an accident and cause more than $10,000 in property damage. The BI coverage will protect you if you are at-fault and cause injury to another person. Finally, the UM will protect you if someone else is at fault, injures you, but does not have BI. This is intended to be a basic discussion of the available automobile coverages in Florida, and we encourage you to speak with an attorney or insurance agent if you have questions about your policy and what you might need.

If you are involved in a car crash, please contact a local personal injury attorney for a free consultation 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.

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

COMPENSATION

WITH COMPASSION

Automobile Accidents Slip and Fall Wrongful Death Pedestrian Injuries Motorcycle Accidents You Focus On Healing While I Deal with the Insurance Company No Fee Unless We Recover For You Free Consultation You Owe Nothing Until we Recover For You

Experienced Trial Attorney

727-777-7737

If a settlement can’t be reached, Chris has the experience and understanding of trial advocacy to continue working on your behalf.

Personal Injury Attorney Office in Pinellas County www.gulfcoastfamily.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

April 2019 • 21

The Final Four Fundamentals Dads Need “Good, better, best. Never let it rest. Until your good is better and your better is best.” – Tim Duncan Spring is when filling out a tournament bracket makes the to-do list. It’s when for a few weeks Thursday and Friday become personal leave days across offices all over America. Most people love the NCAA tournament and for good reason. Few sporting events offer such a large collection of diverse teams with a shot at making history. The storylines are compelling and the drama is nail-biting. It’s become a great American tradition.

So in the same spirit, we as dads could use the month to work on our family/marriage game as hard as the athletes work on their basketball game. Let’s hone our skills and practice our moves to become championship ready men, parents, and husbands. To be always striving, learning, working, and yearning to be better until your better is best. That is the type of attitude that creates great things in all that we do.

Let’s work on the final four fundamentals of fatherhood so we can lead our families to the victories of joy, strength, and enduring prosperity. Here’s a basketball related look at how we can achieve our goals.

The 3-Pointer

In basketball, the 3-point shot is a risk that comes with big reward if executed efficiently. Teams that put too much emphasis on the risk and ignore fundamentals seldom win it all, but they can make a lot of noise.

It’s prudent to have a 3-point shot in your dad arsenal, but don’t rely on big risk/big reward to guide the future of your family. For example, let’s say we have been offered a job promotion that is going to pay us a substantial amount more than we currently make. Yet, we are living comfortable at the moment and our family is happy. Do we take the risk with the chance that our entire family structure could crumble under different circumstances or do we fire the ball inside for a more reliable shot? Always measure personal success against its effect on the family, and use keen wisdom as to when to launch that bomb from the arc.

The Free Throw

How many times do we see great players missing this most simple of shots? These players that lack consistency and reliability in the fundamentals. That’s exactly what life does to a man that tries to cut corners and doesn’t put in the work necessary to be rock solid at the mundane and routine. At the free throw line is where a championship game is often won or lost. Can you be the man that when he is standing there with everything on the line for his family he hits nothing but net?

Swish. It takes relentless repetition and a willing heart.

Zone Defense

Offense and beautiful shots are rarely what makes a great champion. It’s what he does when the glory

is not his to be had that makes the difference. Does he work on both ends of the court? In dadness, zone defense is being the guy under control when life has gone crazy and being the stop gap between it and his family. When his wife is stressed out, his teen is going down a wrong path, and his adolescent is confused and asking hard questions, he doesn’t get overwhelmed and run over. He wisely spreads out a defensive net and gets his team the ball back.

The Slam Dunk

The slam dunk is basketball’s most spectacular moment. It’s what all players dream of. Soaring through the air with the ball firmly in hand and slamming it down with extreme authority through the goal. How did he arrive at that moment? All of the hard work and countless hours of practice. The dedication to his craft that he put before all else. A dad that goes about being a man, parent, and husband, in the same way, will also soar through the air with authority. Put in the work!

AllProDad.com iMOM.com FamilyMinute.com

MORNING STAR SCHOOL Serving Students with Special Learning Needs Since 1969 At Morning Star Catholic School, we provide our 1st–12th grade students with individualized instruction from caring professionals who are skilled at understanding and meeting each child’s unique needs.

Our Recipe for Success

• Talented Florida state-certified ESE teachers • Low student-to-teacher ratio • Nurturing environment • Speech and OT services during the school day • Life Skills curriculum in High School

4661 80th Avenue North Pinellas Park, FL 33781

22 • April 2019

• Comprehensive curriculum includes language arts, math, writing, science, social studies, religion, art, music therapy, guidance and PE • Gardiner, McKay and Step Up for Students scholarships accepted

(727) 544-6036

There are many paths to success.

Our goal is to help ever� st�dent realize their dreams for the f�t�re. morningstarschool.org info@morningstarschool.org

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

@MorningStarPP

MSSPP

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Q&A With Counselor John Phipps

Teens and Technology: Safeguarding your Family Dear Pastor, I understand you work as a psychotherapist and I really need some guidance. I know that my concern will remain anonymous and you have probably seen this particular issue before.

I have recently found inappropriate content on my fifteen year old’s cell phone. Both my husband and I are at a loss as to what to do, or how we can help our son.

P.S. he is usually well behaved, gets good grades and is a very typical teenager in many ways.

Dear parent, Thank you for sharing your personal story with me. With your consent, I will share this concern in my editorial column. You see my friend, many parents are struggling to set limits and help their teenagers become accountable to these technological temptations.

More importantly, take time to process this with your son. Please make him aware that this temptation can be overcome, as this is becoming a more common temptation to young people.

Remind him that the accountability that you will provide him is a sign of your love and support for his well-being.

We live in a digital age where inappropriate texting, sexting, and inappropriate content, including bullying, has become a major epidemic. Not only with our young people, but also wreaks havoc on marriages as well.

society says these are normal behaviors, they are destructive, harmful and are often habit forming.

I often see this in my practice, where families are hurt and broken because of distrust and unaccountability. Teaching your teenage son now to be transparent, and to resist temptation, will provide many lifelong lessons for him for his future.

I encourage married couples at my counseling center to share passwords with each other and practice full disclosure regarding their cell phones and other technological devices.

Thank you for writing me and asking for support. There are many good family therapists in Pinellas County that you can go to for support. Always, always remember to remind your son that he is loved and supported, even during times of trial and great difficulty.

I encourage you to safeguard your family by keeping the line of communication open with your teenagers and your spouse. Even though some people in our

The fact that you are concerned shows your love and support for your fifteen year old son. Although I am sure he is a very typical teenager, he will learn to be accountable as there are many inappropriate sites at his disposal.

I highly recommend parents who allow their teenage children to have cell phones, to use spyware that can be purchased to provide an extra layer of security, protection and accountability.

About Rev. John Phipps

I have served as a pastor and psychotherapist for almost 20 years. I have pastored in several churches across several states, but after earning my master’s degree in counseling, I enjoy both pastoring and providing therapeutic care to families and individuals.

I have been happily married for 20 years and have 2 wonderful teenage boys. www.gulfcoastfamily.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

April 2019 • 23

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.

Your Neighborhood Favorite Since 1974…

{ SMOKIN’ OFFER} HERE’S ONE FOR YOU!

VALID FOR DINE-IN, TAKE-OUT & DELIVERY

NO OTHER COUPONS, DISCOUNTS, OR OFFERS APPLY

13050 Park Blvd.

(727)

397-6661

(727)

544-5611

Banquet Room Available

9119 Belcher Road DINE IN DELIVERY

TAKE-OUT CATERING

www.jotospizza.com

Family Owned and Operated for over 40 Years!!!

24 • April 2019

$5.00 OFF

any purchase of $25 or more!

with any other special, Please present coupon when ordering. Not valid ugh 5-31-19. Limited to one Discount, promotion or coupon. Enjoy thro y’s locations in Pinellas Coupon per household. Good at participating Sonn GCF and Hillsborough Counties Only.

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

FRESH FOOD FAST Dine-In or Drive-Thru Catering

eatPDQ.com US

49th St. N.

19

Park Blvd.

4601 Park Blvd.

Pinellas Park, FL 33781 Catering: 727-362-1007

Catering Available for Tenders, Sandwiches, Salads Spend over $100 in catering With this ad. Valid at Pinellas Park and St. Petersburg PDQ only. Expires 05/31/2019.

BUY ONE TENDERS, SALAD OR SANDWICH COMBO MEAL

BUY ONE TENDERS, SALAD OR SANDWICH COMBO MEAL

Valid at Pinellas Park and St. Petersburg PDQ only. Expires 05/31/2019.

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

Valid at Pinellas Park and St. Petersburg PDQ only. Expires 05/31/2019.

April 2019 • 25

Earth Day Quiz

1. When was Earth Day founded?

a. 1950 b. 1960 c. 1970 d. 1980

2. Who founded Earth Day?

a. Will Rogers b. Nelson Reilly c. Mitch Gaylord d. Gaylord Nelson

April 22nd will mark the 47th anniversary of Earth Day. With this in mind, we thought that it would be fun to test how knowledgeable are you about Earth Day and the environment. Take our quiz and find out!

Below are some basic questions about Earth Day, the environment, and recycling. When you have finished the quiz, check your answers on the bottom of this page.

7. Which combination of the following 11. Which of the following products plastic products are accepted for should never be disposed of into recycling by most communities: sewers or septic systems? a. Plastics coded with a 1, 2, and 6 b. Plastics coded with a 3, 4, and 5 c. Plastics coded with a 2, 4, and 6 d. All of the above

a. Used oil b. Hazardous waste c. Cleaners d. All of the above

15. Who founded the Sierra Club?

a. Teddy Roosevelt b. Walt Whitman c. John Muir d. Daniel Boone

16. The EPA was formed in 1970.

What does EPA stand for?

a. Environmental Purification Association 12. How often should you water your 3. How much of our air pollution b. Environmental Protection Agency lawn? comes from motor vehicles, such c. Environmentally Passive Aggressive 8. Which environmental acts did the first a. Every 5 - 7 days b. Every 3 - 4 days as cars and trucks? d. Ecological People of America c. Every 2 - 3 days d. Every day Earth Day demonstrations influence a. 30% b. 50% the federal government to create? c. 75% d. 90% 13. What is the most popular activity 17. What Year was the Endangered a. Endangered Species Act Species Act passed? performed to celebrate Earth Day? 4. Which of the following will

reduce air pollution?

a. Using fluorescent lights b. Using cruise control c. Using water-based products d. All of the above

5. The average U.S. citizen produces how much waste each day? a. 3.5 pounds b. 4.4 pounds c. 6.1 pounds d. 10.0 pounds

6. Which of the following types of products are recyclable? a. Paper b. Glass c. Aluminum d. All of the above

b. Clean Water Act c. Clean Air Act d. All of the above

9. What are the three “R’s” to remember about waste management?

a. Remove, Return, and Relocate b. Remix, Reinvent, and Redistribute c. Refuse, Refrain, and Redeem d. Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle

10. How many gallons of water are wasted each day from the average toilet leak?

a. Conduct a car wash b. Plant a tree c. Ride a bicycle d. None of the above

14. Which President signed the Act of Dedication into law and, thus, created Yellowstone National Park?

a. 1970 b. 980 c. 1964 d. 1973

18. What year was the first hybrid car available for mass market in the United States?

a. 1995 b. 1999 c. 2001 d. 2003

a. James Garfield b. Teddy Roosevelt c. Ulysses S. Grant d. William Taft

a. 300 gallons b. 400 gallons c. 500 gallons d. 600 gallons

Quiz Answers 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6. d. All of the above continental United States. It’s known for 16. b. Environmental Protection Agency – Nineteen others have recovered and 7. a. Plastics coded with a 1, 2, or 6 are its astounding geological diversity and The EPA was signed into law by Richard have been delisted. The ESA has a 93% c. 1970 accepted by most community recycling exotic natural features. Created March 1, Nixon. The aim of the agency is to success rate in the US Northeast. d. Gaylord Nelson – In the spring of programs.

1872, it is the first US national park. protect our health by keeping the envi- 18. b. 1999 – The two-door Honda Insight 1970 U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson 8. d. All of the above 15. c. John Muir – John Muir not only ronment in a livable, useful condition. In was the first hybrid available for the of Wisconsin called for a nationwide 9. d. Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle founded the Sierra Club, the largest, old1992, the EPA unveiled the Energy Star US market. Hybrids were available demonstration aimed to raise awareness 10. c. 500 gallons est and most influential environmental program, an international standard for in Japan in 1997. The Insight had an of environmental issues. It worked. The 11. d. All of the above group in America, but he also played a energy-efficient products.

EPA mileage rating of 61 mpg city and first national Earth Day was April 22.

12. a. Every 5 - 7 days critical role in the creation of Yosemite 17. d. 1973 – The Endangered Species Act 70mpg highway. (The EPA changed its b. 50% 13. b. Plant a tree National Park. Many consider him to be has been, for the most part, successful. mileage ratings in 2007, so this mileage d. All of the above 14. c. Ulysses S. Grant – Yellowstone was California’s most influential citizen of Only two species listed (that weren’t would be somewhat lower by today’s b. 4.4 pounds one of the last unexplored regions in the all time. already extinct) have gone extinct. standards.)

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

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

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

26 • April 2019

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Imagination Day!

Experience

Family Fun with your Little One

at the Trop!

Two things are synonymous with spring here in the Tampa Bay area: Sunshine and baseball. This April make some memories with your family and come catch a game and all the new excitement happening at Tropicana Field.

New at the Trop

Vegan bowls, grilled vegetable sandwiches and salted edamame are among the new eats being offered at Tropicana Field this year. Also new this year to the Rays’ home at Tropicana Field will be LED lighting throughout the ballpark—including blue lights on the roof— and a new turf.

e!

E r F

The Flex Packs are back!

open t o public !

First 100 Kids receive a FREE Superhero Cape & Mask

WestShore Plaza

250 WestShore Plaza • Tampa

Saturday, April 6th from 10:00am to 3:00pm Event located from Dick’s Sporting Goods to JCPenney • Hands on Learning Activities from Mosi & Mad Science • Multiple Interactive Arts & Craft Booths • Photo Booth Fun • Balloon Twisters • Face Painter • Welcome the Easter Bunny at 11:00am

For More Information: Simply Events (727) 674-1464 • www.SimplyEventsFL.com

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

2300 S. Belcher Road, Largo, FL 33771

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

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

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.

Accepting Applications for 2019-2020 To advertise, call 727-612-0783

Choose tickets for any 2019 regular season game, with NO blackout dates. The new Flex Packs offer savings up to 60% off the single game ticket price.

Salute to Service Monday

For 2019, Military and First Responders can receive complimentary tickets to select home games, additional bonus dates and special ticket offers throughout the season. Visit www.mlb.com/rays for details.

$2 Kids Tickets

On select games, tickets are $2 for kids 14 and under with the purchase of a full-price adult ticket. Up to two $2 tickets can be purchased per full price paid adult.

Senior Special Wednesday

Fans 60 years of age and older can purchase Press Level tickets for just $15.

$7.11 Fridays, presented by 7-Eleven

For all Friday home games, fans may purchase discounted tickets for only $7.11. To take advantage of this special price, fans should visit a participating local 7-Eleven store and pick up the Rays Friday night discount coupon.

Weekend Giveaways

The Rays will be giving away over four dozen unique and fun collectibles this season. This April’s giveaways include a Kevin Kiemaier Replica Jersey, a Ryne Stanek Bottle Opener, a Devil Rays jersey and Daniel Robertson Wristbands.

Rays Touch Tank Meet the rays before you watch the Rays.

This 10-minute interactive experience with stingrays is free to fans until two hours after the first pitch.

Ted Williams Museum

The Ted Williams Museum and Hitters Hall of Fame brings a special element to Tropicana Field. This museum is dedicated to some of the greatest players to ever “lace ’em up.”

April 2019 • 27

Gardening

for Pollinators

by Kristen Gilpin

80% of flowering plants require pollination for their survival, which makes pollinators incredibly important to us and our food supply. Creating a garden designed for pollinators helps to bolster local pollinator populations and gives you a garden packed with wildlife and Butterflies, bees, tiny wasps, beetles, blooms. Here are some simple design flies, hummingbirds and even bats uti- concepts you can incorporate into your lize flowers as food sources. While garden to bring pollinators to your yard. feeding on sweet nectar or proteinpacked pollen, these creatures unknow- The basics—food, water and shelter: ingly move pollen from male flowers Pollinators need food and, much like to female flowers. In this process the us, they like variety. Different colors flower is fertilized and can produce and shapes of flowers attract different fruit and seeds. Some plants are incred- types of pollinators. Butterflies like ibly adapted to entice pollinators using red, pink, yellow, orange and blue, color, shape and smell to lure creatures while bees are fond of yellow, blue and into this process of fertilization. purple flowers. Night blooming plants

attract moths, and tube-shaped flowers appeal to hummingbirds. Larval plants provide food for growing caterpillars that will eventually become pollinating butterflies. A moist patch of ground or a birdbath filled with sand and water will help quench the thirst of your tiny creatures. Grasses and shrubs in the background provide shelter and protected locations for your pollinators to rest over night.

a pollinator to get lots of food without expending a lot of energy.

Chemical free: Avoid overusing herbicides and pesticides. Many of the creatures you will attract in a pollinator garden can be adversely affected by pesticide, while herbicides can kill weeds that are important food sources. Try gentle remedies like insecticidal soap and apply these products in small amounts, Keep it simple; keep it together: as needed, and after dusk when most Simple flowers tend to provide more pollinators are at rest. food for pollinators. Doubled blooms and odd hybrids are neat for us, but they Kristen Gilpin provides butterfly and pollinator don’t provide as much nectar. Arrange information weekly on MOSI’s BioWorks Butterfly your plants in small clumps of the Garden blog. Stop by and ask some questions same type. Groupings of plants allow about pollinators and gardening at mosi.org.

SUNSHINE IS HERE! Let Flowers Say It All…Happy Birthday To You, Thanks For Caring, Feel Better Soon…

Sometimes All It Takes Is A Bloom. We deliver them to St. Petersburg, FL or nationwide.

28 • April 2019

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

April 2019 • 29

Florida Manatee If you are fortunate enough to enjoy Florida’s warm coastal waters and springs, you might have the opportunity to see a unique species of marine mammal, the Florida manatee, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee. Manatees are often referred to as “sea cows” because they are herbivores that graze on freshwater and saltwater plants. There are natural threats to manatees in the wild, like cold stress, red tide toxicity, and human-related injuries like boating accidents, getting trapped in flood control structures and eating fish hooks and litter.

The David A. Straz, Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center is the first non-

profit critical center for injured and sick manatees. With three 16,000 gallon medical treatment pools, two underwater treatment pools, and a public observation area, you can see the rehabilitation process right before your very eyes. Our team of fearless females on the manatee care team work day-in and day-out to tend to the patients in their care. Their passion for manatees is clear as they hope to inspire the next generation of manatee lovers to protect the species.

David A. Straz Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center

The story of the manatees at ZooTampa spans 25 years and over 430 treated manatees, since the David A. Straz, Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center opened

in 1991. The manatee critical care center was the first ever built to care for ill or injured manatees.

The manatee critical care center features three 16,000 gallon critical care pools, two underwater treatment pools, and a public observation area from which guests can observe veterinary and rehabilitation procedures in real time!

Boat strike injuries, entanglements in pollution, cold stress, red tide toxicity, and loss of a parent are some of the main reasons why manatees come

to the manatee critical care center.

A dedicated team of animal care and veterinary staff tend to the manatees 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

To enhance animal welfare and expand our mission to save Florida wildlife, ZooTampa recently completed extensive upgrades to the water filtration system at the David A. Straz, Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center. This new, upgraded life support system allows us to provide advanced, specialized care for the welfare of manatees and treat even the most severe cases.

Sign Language and My Signing Toys Go Hand in Hand Relax, Leave The Driving To Us! For over a century, Martz has been providing safe, reliable and courteous transportation.

Martz Group offers private group transportation throughout Florida and the continental U.S. We will take your group to any place you desire; the airport, sporting events, on field trips and much more! Call or email one of our representatives at martzsales@martzgroup.com to inquire.

MY Signing toys, LLC creates toys that aid parents, family members, educators, and therapist in learning and teach sign language through play.”

Great tool for Baby Sign Language & ASL with Down Syndrome, Autistic, pre-verbal, & deaf babies.

Debbie Sailor Creator/Owner MARTZGROUP.COM 727•202•5561

30 • April 2019

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

727-515-7742 mysigningtoys@gmail.com www.etsy.com/shop/MySigningToys www.gulfcoastfamily.org

3

Questions Every Homebuyer Should Ask

by Randy Bowman, Assist-2-Sell

Want to take the pain out of homebuying?

Keep your lifestyle priorities top of mind.

If you’re planning to buy a new home, there’s great news: More houses have hit the market in recent months. This means you’ve got more options to choose from.

Choice is always good, but it can also be overwhelming.

The key? Careful, disciplined prioritization.

Let’s go beyond square footage or the number of bedrooms and consider how the property fits your life.

By focusing on what matters the most to you, we can refine your search to the closest matches.

Are you looking for an established neighborhood or one that’s up and coming? That could affect future home values.

3. How much work are you willing to do?

2. What does the future hold?

When considering condition, be honest with yourself.

How much work are you truly willing to take on?

Think about the next 10 years. Are you planning to have kids? Will your aging parents move in?

If the home needs cosmetic updates, will you want them completed before you move in? If you fall for a fixer-upper, do you have a budget for renovations?

If you plan to stay for the long haul, you might want a property to accommodate your family today, and in the future. If you know your career will have you on the move, will you want to sell the property or rent it out?

Here are the three questions every potential homebuyer should ask themselves:

Communication is a critical element of your home search. The more information you share, the better we’re able to match you with a home that fits your life.

Got your priorities in order? Let’s find your dream home. Reach out today.

1. Where do you want to live?

Think beyond your commute. Do you want to be in a specific school district? How much street noise can you cope with?

www.WeSellPinellas.com

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

April 2019 • 31

Autism: The Importance of Early Detection and Intervention

by Dawn Magnuson, Occupational Therapist for Independent Living - Pediatrics

The twelfth annual World Autism Awareness Day is April 2, 2019.

Every April, autism organizations around the world shine a bright light on autism as a growing global health crisis.

A characteristic unique to As with any child with special Autism Spectrum Disorders is needs, early detection is the need for structure and repetitive rouessential to allow interventions tines. The child’s resistance to change to be implemented. With autism, can impede treatment and interventions if started too late when the child has al- intervention needs to be started ready established inappropriate and non- before deviation and delay from the functional behaviors as a part of his/her normal pattern of development has progressed too far. routine. Early intervention has also been proven to have more of a significant impact due the theory of brain plasticity, referring to the brain’s ability to change itself. This first occurs when infants are born and start developing into children.

Between the ages of birth-six, studies have shown that the immature brain grows and creates neural networks at an unprecedented rate, as the brain is flooded with new sensory input from the outside world. Research continues to they receive. However, with specific and show us how the brains of children diag- consistent early intervention, we have nosed with autism lack this natural abil- been successful in bridging this gap by ity to integrate and organize the input facilitating appropriate neural connec-

tions to occur. Evidence continues to consistently show that early intervention improves long-term function for children diagnosed in the Autism Spectrum.

To ensure families receive early intervention, early detection is the key. Recognition and diagnosis before the age of two continues to be rare, however there are indications in the usual developmental progress that could suggest autism before the age of two. These include but are not limited to lack of eye contact, avoidance of sounds and non responsive to name as well as a lack of interest in the types of play that most infants enjoy, such as those which involve social interaction with the parent. Assessment is best done within a child development unit because the expertise of a variety of disciplines is required and a team approach has been found to result in more accurate diagnosis.

For more information on learning the early detection signs of autism, please go to: www.autismspeaks.org www.firstsigns.org

For local resources and facilities in the Tampa Bay area: www.independentlivinginc.com Autism Speaks Walk-a-thon, April 27 www.autismspeakswalk.org www.thetridascenter.com www.bcotb.com www.jacobstouch.org

WWW.TRINITYCOLLEGE.EDU 32 • April 2019

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

1. Stop saying how tired you are.

imom.com

If you’re always complaining about how tired you are, your kids will think you see your job as a mom as drudgery.

2. Smile at your kids.

It’s Great to Create!

Spring Table Centerpiece

Try this: Look at your child and smile. Keep smiling.

If they ask you what you’re smiling about, say, “It just This centerpiece is quite simple and a makes me happy to be your mom.”

3. Laugh! Find the humor in life.

I noticed something as I was putting my children to bed last night. They were extra affectionate with me.

I wasn’t surprised because I had made a conscious effort to be joyful throughout the evening. Instead of being the command-shouting, clock-watching, “you do this now,” mom, I chose to communicate with them in a less harsh manner. I made up my mind to leave a trail of joy.

When you walk into the room do your kids smile or cringe? When you leave the room do they sigh or applaud? We’re kind of kidding here, but what kind of trail do you leave behind during the day? Even though every moment can’t be sunny and fun, do try to be a joyful mom as much as you can. Here’s some mom advice on how to start!

You need: If you tend to be fascinated by bad news or sad stories, • Glass Vases. You can vary sizes and styles.

• Spring Flowers. You can use artificial or real flowers. don’t always share the grim and unfortunate things of • Colored Jello. Choose a color that life with your kids. Look for joy and laugh when you will go well with flowers.

find it.

Directions: 1. Mix up Jello, but for better 4. THC. consistency use only 1/2 As we rush, rush, rush through our day, we can forget the water specified. the simple joys of THC – tickling, hugging and 2. Pour Jello into vases. cuddling our kids.

3. Place flowers into Jello.

4. Refrigerate.

5. Don’t snap at your kids.

5. Pull out in time.

If you have something to say, say it in the nicest way you can and in a tone of voice that doesn’t come across as an impatient outburst.

6. Don’t rush your kids.

Butterfly Centerpiece

This project was quick, easy, and very inexpensive. They make beautiful centerpieces and would make a unique gift Going through the day telling your kids to “Hurry! for someone, costing only pennies.

Let’s go! Do it now!” leaves a trail of tension, not joy.

Jim Hobson ASE Certified Master Mechanic ASE Advanced Engine Performance

Certified Master Automotive Technician • 40 Years Experience

Oil & Filter Special

$

2195

Includes 24 Point Safety Inspection and Disposal Fee Most Cars Foreign & Domestic

Oil Changes The Engine Light Air Conditioning Means Lots of Tune-Ups Things ...

We strive to maintain customer loyalty by providing quality automotive Check Engine Light “Ignore” is not repair, by keeping current with the latest automotive technology.

Under the Hood one of them We fix all models Foreign & Domestic Under the Auto COMPLIMENTARY Tires & Brakes SCAN Heating & Cooling We Accept Most Computer Reprograming Available for GM, Ignition & Electrical Competitors Coupons Chrysler & Ford Vehicles 1996-2014.

OUR PLEDGE TO YOU We Only Do Necessary Work ... We Never Overcharge!

We Guarantee the Job will be Done Right.

YOUR #1 SOURCE FOR TIRES AND BATTERIES Just a few of the Brands we carry!

Did You Know ...

We Repair Electrical Systems

102215

9660 Seminole Blvd., Suite B • Seminole, FL 33772 Next to Pinch-A-Penny & Snyders Transmissions

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

lot of fun for the kids to make.

Mon.-Fri. 7:30-6:00pm Sat. 7:30-1:00pm Pick up and Delivery Available

727-851-9838

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

You need: • Butterflies. We used 2" artificial butterflies.

• Green moss or Spanish moss.

• Hot glue gun and glue sticks.

• Cutters.

• Twigs.

• Empty cereal box or anything else you can recycle.

• Empty glass jars. Spaghetti sauce, salsa, and jams were a great size.

Directions: 1. Select your twigs. Try to use twigs with character and lots of little branches for the butterflies to sit on.

2. Clean and remove all labels from the jars.

3. Trim down twigs so that they will fit into the jars.

Arrange as desired.

4. Glue on butterflies.

5. Using your jar, trace the bottom lip of the jar onto a piece of the cereal box.

6. Cut out the traced circle.

7. Adhere green moss to the circle using hot glue.

8. Put twigs with butterflies into jar.

9. Put glue on the rim. While glue is still hot, press your inverted moss circle onto the rim.

10. Press and hold until the glue dries. Turn jar upright and you are done!

April 2019 • 33

with Jim Daly Q: My wife and I don’t fight that often, but when we do, it seems to escalate quickly. I think we’re both at fault.

One of us says something snide, and the other responds with something that’s a bit angrier and a bit louder. Then back and forth it goes. How do we nip this in the bud?

Jim: I think most couples know exactly what this is like; you don’t necessarily mean to escalate things, but it happens. A few years ago, I interviewed a relationship expert for our radio broadcast, and he called this “climbing the crazy ladder.”

and wife don’t get easier to resolve when a disagreement escalates into a heated argument.

As couples, we not only need to stay off the crazy ladder for the sake of our marriages, but we also need to do it for our children if we have them. There’s plenty of research that shows children suffer lifelong repercussions when they’re exposed to chronic, poorly handled conflict.

The best advice is not to go up the crazy ladder in the first place. Learn how to stay calm, discuss your differences ratio-

Fighting as a couple is like racing up an emotional ladder. The thing about ladders is you can go up fast, but coming down quickly is a lot harder. In other words, once a disagreement has escalated into a heated argument, it’s much more difficult to calm things down.

AVOID THE ‘CRAZY LADDER’ WHEN FIGHTING WITH SPOUSE nally, and resolve your problems in a way that strengthens your marriage instead of weakening it. The first step might be the willingness to say, “Honey, we’re climbing the crazy ladder again.” We have many resources to help at FocusOnTheFamily. com. You can even contact our staff counselors for advice and assistance.

OVERCOMING SIBLING CONFLICT Q: Our two daughters (ages 13 and 7) fight and bicker all the time. We’ve talked many times about the need to be kind, loving and forgiving. They always promise to do better next time, but nothing ever changes. How can we help them overcome this sibling rivalry?

Danny Huerta, Vice President, Parenting and Youth: I think most families deal with sibling conflict at some point. It happens with my children—usually at the most inconvenient times! Overcoming sibling

Also, it’s really unstable at the top of a ladder. The problems between a husband

conflict takes consistency, focus and time, so keep these three things in mind: Stay calm: This is difficult when children are bickering; it’s “ninja level” parenting.

Breathe deep and remember that you’re teaching them how to handle relationships and resolve conflict—skills we all need as we mature. Take time to understand each of your daughters’ perspectives. Their age and personalities factor in, as well.

“COME TO THE TABLE” Sunday, April 14 10:00 AM

9 am to 12pm - Weekdays (727) 894-4661 Experience the power of Jesus’ final moments with His closest friends.

113th St N

102nd Ave N

34 • April 2019

Seminole Blvd

Ulmerton Rd Bryan Dairy Rd

Park Blvd

This dramatic presentation of the Last Supper will inspire you to live with greater purpose!

A faith-based Parents’ Morning Out program for children 3 – 23 months.

Communion will be offered.

No reservations required.

Seminole Assembly 10600 113th Street N

727-391-9788 www.seminoleag.org

212 3 Street North St. Petersburg, FL 33702 rd

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

Contact: Lora UIrich Director of Children’s Ministries 727-894-4661, ext 212 www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Living Hope

shoes. It’s not always perfect, but this is an unnatural skill for all of us.

Provide consistent limits: If the children are rude, mean or physical, you have to intervene with consequences. I know several families who do this: Whoever is being a bully must clean the toilets, signifying that the issue needs to be flushed out of the home. There are many other options for consequences, from time-outs to losing privileges or toys (with the opportunity to earn them back).

Easter

PARENTS CAN STILL OFFER GUIDANCE AFTER KIDS LEAVE THE NEST

Jim: Many Moms and Dads think their parenting responsibilities are over once their kids move out. But that’s not always the case. In fact, the empty nest years can offer some of your greatest moments of influence as a parent—if you’re prepared.

Throughout their teen years, kids usually strive for more and more independence and often don’t listen to their parents’ instruction. But once they’re old enough and leave home, reality hits. These newly christened adults are suddenly confronted with budget constraints, job challenges and relationship pressures—with no safety net from you. As life’s pressure builds, young people often turn back

to their parents for guidance. For Mom and Dad, it’s an opportunity to share the wisdom their children probably rejected in high school.

But here’s the catch. Your kids will only turn to you if you’ve maintained a strong relationship with them. In part, that means allowing them to find their way without constantly rushing in to offer your advice before they ask for it. Stay connected, encourage them and let them know you’re available. Then be patient—and wait. In time, they may seek you out, and you can experience a whole new level of connection and influence with your adult children.

Ulmerton Rd 102nd Ave N

Jim: I’ve asked Focus on the Family’s advisory Physicians Resource Council for input on this question. www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Bryan Dairy Rd

Park Blvd

Seminole Assembly 10600 113th Street N

727-391-9788 www.seminoleag.org

Changing Lives

CONSIDER THESE TIPS WHEN CARING FOR AN ELDERLY FAMILY MEMBER Q: What do we need to do to make our home as safe and as comfortable as possible for my elderly mom? She’s not coping well on her own, so we’re arranging to have her come and live with us. We’re open to remodeling, if necessary. Can you offer any suggestions?

Celebration

Sunday, April 21 9:00 AM Breakfast 10:00 AM Worship Experience

113th St N

Q: We have two kids—twins who will be graduating from high school soon and spreading their wings. I’m having a hard time adjusting to the idea our influence as parents is almost finished.

Is that a normal reaction?

Seminole Blvd

Listen and Teach: Carefully listen to your children, help them identify the real issue between them, and involve them in finding solutions and setting consequences.

The agreement in our home is, after five minutes of fussing, the kids have hired me for $1-a-minute to help them sort the conflict. We work on taking turns listening, practicing empathy (“What’s it like to be with me?”) and asking, “What do I really want?” They’re learning to self-reflect and put themselves in the other person’s

Given the effects of decreased mobility, oncoming deafness or diminished eyesight, even the most comfortable house can become hazardous for an elderly person. This is particularly true if the lighting is inadequate, there are too many stairs (or stairs are hard to climb), or the doorknobs and faucets are difficult to use. Some simple changes and minor remodeling can make a big difference in the safety, comfort and convenience of your home from your aging mother’s

Reaching the World

Starkey Road Baptist Church 8800 Starkey Road * Seminole, FL 33777 (727)397-1654 www.SRBC.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

April 2019 • 35

with Jim Daly perspective. Here are some ideas to consider: • Replace steps with ramps. Install ramps over doorsills or remove the sills altogether for wheelchair accessibility.

• Install handrails on both sides of stairs or hallways.

• Elevate toilet seats using an insert specially designed for this purpose. Install sturdy grab bars in the bathroom by the toilet, shower stall and bathtub.

• To avoid tripping, remove area rugs and runners that slide.

• Make sure that all lamp, extension and telephone cords are out of the flow of foot traffic. Incidentally, don’t place electrical cords under furniture or carpeting, as this can cause a fire.

• Check stairways to make sure they are well lighted and equipped with non-slip strips.

• Install night-lights in bedrooms, bathrooms and hallways. Place flashlights near your mother’s favorite chair, beside the bed and in other convenient places.

Consider purchasing a lamp that can be turned on and off with a simple touch.

• Eliminate low furniture such as coffee tables and footstools that may present a tripping hazard.

• Replace heavy dishes and glasses with lightweight, non-breakable dishware.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to protecting your mother from dangerous falls and injuries.

In addition to making physical and structural changes to your home, you can help promote safety by measures as simple as wiping up spills or wet places on the floor; encouraging your mother to have a physical therapy evaluation to assess her gait and determine the potential need for assistive devices such as canes or walkers; and providing her with physical assistance when rising from a reclining or sitting position.

If you live in a two-story house, you might want to think about rearranging the living environment so as to allow your mother to

live on the first floor. Of course, this works best if there’s a bathroom on this level, but there are special chair lift systems that can be installed on stairways to move your mother from one floor to the other. Some insurance policies cover the cost for these aids.

Finally, take advantage of the resources available from several helpful sources: • The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website (cpsc.gov) includes a document entitled “Safety for Older Consumers: Home Safety Checklist.”

• The National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a.org) encourages members to help older persons and persons with disabilities live with dignity and choices in their homes and communities for as long as possible.

ones with a chronic illness, disability or the frailties of old age.

• The Aging Life Care Association (aginglifecare.org) is an organization of practitioners whose goal is the advancement of expert assistance to the elderly and their families.

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.

• The Caregiver Action Network (caregiveraction.org) educates, supports, empowers and speaks up for the more than 65 million Americans who care for loved

this is motherhood

We build circles of women who love each other like family, because raising humans is beautiful and hard, and having each other to lean on is life-giving.

APRIL

12

Second Friday of each month 9 a.m. – Noon Breakfast and Childcare Provided

For moms from pregnancy to kindergarten.

Sept 14 | Oct 12 | Nov 9 | Dec 14 | Jan 11 | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | May 10

Starkey Road Baptist Church 8800 Starkey Road, Seminole 36 • April 2019

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

(727) 397-1654 mops@srbc.org www.srbc.org/mops www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Evaluating Entertainment For It’s Message

pluggedin.com

by pluggedin.com

Q: Much of today’s entertainment is created by performers who embrace values and lifestyles with which I strongly disagree. I want to avoid supporting them with my money or exposing my children to their influence. What’s the right thing to do?

A: I think that every entertainment product should be evaluated for its message and not for the personal behavior of the performers and creators. If one eliminates all entertainment based upon the actions of those involved, how far down the list do you go? You might skip a movie over its starring actor, but do you refuse to watch if someone in a scene’s background has made

Let Us Guide You On Your

poor moral choices? What about the men and women behind the cameras? Or those in charge of lighting?

The point is, it’s nearly impossible to avoid all entertainment created by anyone with questionable values.

A better standard is to let every album, TV series, movie and video game stand or fall on its own moral merits (or lack thereof). Every form of entertainment has a message, intentional or unintentional. When the message is uplifting and inspiring, celebrate it—even if the messenger is flawed (as all of us are).

– Bob Waliszewski, Author of Plugged-In Parenting

How much do we love our phones?

Adoption Journey

21% would pay a stranger $100 to get their phone back

26% would travel more than 100 miles to retrieve a lost phone Destiny Adoption Services and Consulting, Inc is a private not-for-profit adoption organization that provides adoption services to birth parents who are considering placing their child for adoption and to prospective adoptive parents who wish to grow their family.

Our team offers the best in support services for the adoptive family and the birth parent, including counseling services and assistance connecting the right child with the right family in both private and dependency adoption.

We understand the adoption journey will be one of the most profound moments in your life, and we want to be by your side every step of the way. www.gulfcoastfamily.org

74% would rather a thief break into their home than hack their smartphone We’re ready to help, 24 hours a day!

727-202-8966 destinyadoption.com To advertise, call 727-612-0783

Source: MiMedia/NBCnews.com 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.

April 2019 • 37

Reading is an adventure that begins early inbya child’s life.

Judy Adorno, Director, Sylvan St. Petersburg Parents play a key role in helping their child become a life-long reader by instilling the joy of reading at an early age. Educational experts recommend that parents spend at least one hour per week — or 10 to 15 minutes a day — reading with children long before school starts.

Reading skills and habits develop young, so it’s important for parents to encourage their children’s love of reading.

PRE-K READING: INTRODUCING THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF READING Pre-K children eagerly soak up information about the world around them. (Don’t you just love watching your child’s eyes light up when his or her curiosity is sparked?) Have you noticed that books, new words and “once upon-a-times” are capturing your child’s imagination?

This is the perfect time to bring words to life with pre-K reading activities.

Use a multi-sensory approach to introduce your child to the wonderful world of stories, sounds and letters. Try a variety of reading activities so your child gets to see, hear, touch and move around — a truly engaging approach to learning to read.

Read stories aloud and act them out. Or, pick a storybook character and pretend that character is coming to dinner. As you read a favorite book to your child point to the words as you say them — encouraging her to recognize that words have meaning. To motivate and inspire your soon-tobe-reader, give supportive feedback and lots of fun books to choose from.

KINDERGARTEN: CREATING A STRONG FOUNDATION FOR READING Reading aloud continues to be important with Kindergarten children, as it helps them to develop language skills. Encouraging discussion with a child also contributes to language development and can help with reading too. Nurture your kindergarteners reading behaviors by helping your child relate read-aloud stories to events in her life. Subscribe to a magazine for your child to learn about topics that interest him and have fun making cookies together — using the recipe to demonstrate the need for reading and math.

Don’t forget to read outside the home as well there are many opportunities to read to your child — and have him read back to you — as you’re running errands, attending events, or dining out. Parents can also take advantage of reading opportunities on the Internet.

For example, Book Adventure is a free, interactive, reading motivation program created by Sylvan Learning and found online at www.BookAdventure.com.

For additional tips on instilling the joy of reading and making learning a fun family endeavor, visit the “Parent Resources” area of www.SylvanLearning.com.

For more info­rmation about your local Sylvan, call 727-347-6284 or visit www.SylvanLearning.com/SaintPetersburgFl.

N O I P M A CH DO TA E K W O N

School Programs Children’s Classes Family Classes Adult Classes Evening Classes

Drama Kids offers exciting programs for ages 4 to 18. Kids who take our classes have tons of fun and develop important confidence-building skills that will help them personally and academically.

Activities include: • Improvisations • Mini-scripts • Speaking skills • Character analysis

• Theater games • Creative movement • Performances

ENROLLING NOW! Classes across Pinellas County

Call 727-877-6835 Visit our website at

www.dramakids.com/FL9 Register for a

FREE TRIAL CLASS 38 • April 2019

If you want your child to get a jump on achievement, enroll them today.

Space is limited.

Offering 8 classes daily

Tae Kwon Do Teaches • Physical Conditioning • Mental Strenghtening • Self Defence

Champion Tae Kwon Do 7590 Starkey Road, Seminole

(727) 399-2999 www.ChampionTaeKwonDo.net

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

le

b ila

ok va utlo o B s A l@o g icke n i N n

ig

S

Family

om

.c ok

L i b r a ry

cyJ

an

N ail

Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage

em

Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley Yes, marriage can have its twists and turns. But the detours don’t necessarily have to lead couples off course. Greg and Erin Smalley help couples map out a journey for their marriages so that they can enjoy the passionate and intimate relationship that God has promised.

Walt’s Imagination: The Life of Walt Disney The Runaway Egg follows the adventures of a special egg that escapes from an Easter egg hunt. Through unpredictable circumstances, the egg travels on an incredible journey. How will the egg survive its wild adventures? Could God be behind a runaway egg?

Doreen Rappaport and John Pomeroy Illustrated with vivid authenticity by local animator/painter John Pomeroy and presented and contextualized with Doreen Rappaport’s signature compelling prose, this stunning entry in the award-winning Big Words series reveals a man of deep and varied passions with a constantly evolving vision, and a storyteller above all.

We Are the Gardeners Joanna Gaines and Julianna Swaney You and your children can learn all about the Gaines family’s story of becoming gardeners in Joanna’s first children’s book—starting with the first little fern Chip bought for Jo. Over the years, the family’s love for gardening blossomed into what is now a beautiful, bustling garden. www.gulfcoastfamily.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

April 2019 • 39

Lakewood High senior honored with Lightning Community Hero honor and $50,000 Three Lakewood High School students earn top ACT Score Nathan Hamilton, William Kline and another student at Lakewood High School earned the highest possible ACT composite score of 36.

Around two-tenths of 1 percent of students who take the ACT earn a top score. In the U.S. high school graduating class of 2018, only 2,760 out of more than 2 million graduates who took the ACT earned a top composite score of 36.

Naseem Hamed, a senior at Lakewood High School, was honored as the 34th Lightning Community Hero by the Tampa Bay Lightning. As a result, Naseem received a $50,000 donation from the Lightning Foundation and the Lightning Community Heroes program. Naseem plans to donate half of the award to Lakewood High’s Center for Advanced Technologies program via the Pinellas Education Foundation.

Naseem parents emigrated from Palestine and only spoke Arabic at home so they were unable to help him with school. He was then given a mentor who pushed for him to be accepted into the Take Stock in Children (TSIC) program in sixth grade. After getting involved with the program, Naseem started volunteering and mentoring other students. He mentored and volunteered many groups including STEM Robotics students, the National Honor Society and an after-school literacy camp program. He also led a volunteer project to help

is significant and rare. Your exceptional scores will provide any college or university with ample evidence of your readiness for the academic rigors that lie ahead.”

Photo by Willie Smith, Spartan News Network

Nathan Hamilton also achieved a rare and exceptional feat: a perfect score in each assessed category. In a letter to the student recognizing this exceptional achievement, ACT CEO Marten Roorda stated, “Your achievement on the ACT

40 • April 2019

One student requested privacy regarding the accomplishment. All three students will graduate this spring from Lakewood’s Center for Advanced Technologies, a nationally recognized Academy of Excellence that offers advanced and accelerated coursework in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

other district high school students track their graduation requirements through the Pathway website and portal.

Naseem plans to expand Future Plans, a career and college preparatory program that makes sure students, including Take Stock in Children students, have the best information in deciding what career path to pursue to increase their chances of success later. He also is looking to strengthen the communication platform with the TSIC students who are currently in college to make sure that they are still getting the most out of the program. With his background of coming from a low-income household and the guidance from his TSIC mentor, Naseem is motivated to develop this initiative.

Naseem Hamed is the 358th Lightning Community Hero since Jeff and Penny Vinik introduced the Lightning Community Hero program in 2011-12 with a $10 million, five-season commitment to the Tampa Bay community.

The Lightning Foundation has granted $17.9 million to more than 400 different nonprofits in the Greater Tampa Bay area. During the summer of 2016, the Vinik’s announced that the community hero program will give away another $10-million over the next five seasons.

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Now Hiring Apply online at www.rclub.net

Strengthening children, families & communi�es since 1976

49 Convenient Loca�ons in the Tampa Bay Area VPK offered at All 10 Early Learning Academies High Quality Before & A�er School Care in 49 loca�ons throughout Pinellas County Na�onally Accredited Early Childhood Educa�on Centers & VPK, Head Start and Early Head Start throughout Pinellas & Hillsborough Coun�es ♦ Free 21st Century Community Learning Centers in Middle Schools ♦ Special Services for children 0-5 years with special needs and/or social emo�onal/ behavioral challenges ♦ HIPPY (Home Instruc�on for Parents of Preschool Youngsters) a na�onal model early Literacy program with excellent school readiness results ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

R’Club Offers a Variety of Volunteer Opportuni�es

For more informa�on contact Ka�e Yeates 727-578-5437 ext. 2951

Happy Workers an R’Club Early Learning Academy

Lic. #52511737517

www.rclub.net

Preferred Child Care Provider of the Tampa Bay Rays www.gulfcoastfamily.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

April 2019 • 41

April 2019

Events

April 1 – 30 2019 EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FLOWER & GARDEN FESTIVAL Delight in the magnificence of spring with a multisensory selection of vibrant displays and captivating experiences. Nurture your sense of curiosity at the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival—a fun-filled destination for Guests of all ages. With so much to see and do, your whole family will uncover something new with every single visit! www.disneyworld.disney.go.com

April 1 – 3, 16 – 18, 19 – 21 & 22 – 24 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 April and come cheer your Rays as they take on the Rockies, Orioles, Red Sox and Royals! www.mlb.com/rays April TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING STANLEY CUP PLAYOFFS The Tampa Bay Lightning are having one of the best seasons in NHL history. By

now, most hockey fans are aware of that.

The Lightning are in the postseason for the second-consecutive season, the fifth time in the last six seasons and the 11th time overall. The Bolts are looking to win their second Stanley Cup in franchise history to pair with the lone Cup won in 2004.

If you haven’t taken a step back to admire this team yet, now is the time to do it! Be the Thunder! Go Bolts! www.nhl.com/lightning April 2 CHILDREN’S BOARD OF HILLSBOROUGH FREE TUESDAY AT THE GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Join us for free, family fun at the GCM as the Children’s Board of Hillsborough proudly presents a Free Admission Tuesday. This event aligns with the Children’s Board’s mission to promote the well-being of children and families by uniting community partners, investing in innovative opportunities, and leading the county in the best practices so that the whole community can realize its full potential. www.glazermuseum.org April 5–7 2019 NCAA WOMEN’S FINAL FOUR Tampa is excited be the home of the NCAA Women’s Final Four for the third time in the history of the championship. Semifinal action at Amalie Arena will take place at 7:00 PM and 9:30 PM ET on Friday, April 5, followed by the national championship game at 6:00 PM ET on Sunday, April 7.

There are a variety of ticket options and experiences for fans. www.amaliearena.com

42 • April 2019

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

April 6 TASTE @ THE STRAZ Tampa’s Best Party is back with a new name, a new look, but the same “eat, drink, party” spirit! Best of Tampa Bay is now TASTE @ The Straz, an ALLINCLUSIVE all-you-can-eat food and drink extravaganza boasting more than 50 of Tampa Bay’s finest restaurants and caterers, and wine tastings and enjoy 5 live bands! Since its inception 34 years ago, the Straz Center’s signature fundraising event has generated more than $2.5 million for arts education programs. Supporting the arts never tasted so good. www.strazcenter.org

April 6, 13, 20, 27 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 April 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 & 28 BUSCH GARDENS’ FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL A world of taste awaits at the fifth annual Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival this April.

The festival features more new and exciting dishes than ever, plus a large selection of new drinks. Some of the biggest acts in musical entertainment will also take the stage every weekend on Gwazi Field. www.buschgardens.com

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

April 6 SEA TURTLE AWARENESS DAY 2019 Join the Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Conservation Team for a special day focused on sea turtle nesting and conservation at Pier 60 in Clearwater Beach! Learn what you can do to help protect these endangered marine animals and participate in coastal cleanup activities on the beach and in the water.

Activities include, beach cleanup at Pier 60, educational games for kids, children’s Latin dance group, sea turtle nesting stake painting, nest site and other educational displays and plenty of live music, local vendors and food! www.seewinter.com April 6 & 20 FAMILY ART SATURDAYS AT THE MFA Enjoy exploring the Museum of Fine Arts as a family through regular monthly programs such as Kidding Around Yoga, Make & Take activities, as well as other annual events such as Painting in the Park.

Create your own masterpiece inspired by works in the collection and special exhibitions and introduce your children to the world of art. www.mfastpete.org

April 9 LOU HOLTZ LIVE: BONITA CHRISTIAN FORUM A legendary football coach and television commentator, Lou Holtz brings to his work an intuitive feel for the game, an outgoing personality and a great sense of humor. His career included coaching stints at William & Mary, North Carolina State, Arkansas, Minnesota, Notre Dame, and South Carolina, as well as a single season as head coach of the New York Jets. He is a member of the College Football Hall of Fame. www.bonitachristianforum.org April 10 HOMESCHOOL SCIENCE EXPERIENCE ENRICHMENT DAYS AT MOSI Are you smarter than a kid in kindergarten?

How are your paper airplane building skills? Can you build a vehicle using a balloon, some tape and a straw? If your answer is yes to any of these questions then this class will allow you to show off your skills. The challenges that you will face will require some science and a bit of engineering in order to accomplish the event. So get ready to use your mental and physical abilities to win it all! www.mosi.org

April 12 – 28 PIER 60 SUGAR SAND FESTIVAL The Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival stands out as one of the best sand sculpture festivals in Florida, with world-renown sand artists entered to win the best in show with their crazy-cool sand creations. Head to Clearwater Beach and get your ticket to peruse the expansive 21,000-square foot structure, and gaze at the artists at work creating their amazing sand sculptures.

With free live music, fireworks, kid’s play

zones, and sand sculpting classes there’s more fun to have during the festival than grains of sand on Clearwater Beach. www.sugarsandfestival.com

April 11 MICHAEL CARBONARO LIVE! Magician and performance bizarrist Michael Carbonaro is returning to the road with 30 dates of his highly-acclaimed national theater tour, “Michael Carbonaro Live!” Michael Carbonaro has performed more than 500 comically perplexing and improbable feats of magic on his hit truTV series, The Carbonaro Effect, currently in its fourth season. A trickster at heart, Michael performs inventive tricks on unsuspecting members of the public who are unaware that he is a magician. www.themahaffey.com

Serving the Best Pies for 27 years!

Since 1991 Family Owned Bakery specializing in Delicious Desserts

Home of Florida Keys Finest Key Lime Pie

and Toucan’s Café

Sunday “All-You-Can-Eat” Breakfast served 9am–1:30pm Includes juice, coffee & cobbler Retail/Wholesale • Catering & Fundraisers available

12777 Walsingham Road • Largo, FL 33774 727.593.1884

Mon. – Thurs. 10am – 6pm • Fri. & Sat. 10am – 8pm • Sun. 9am – 3pm

www.piesflorida.com

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

April 2019 • 43

April 12 – 14 BIG BOUNCE AMERICA The Big Bounce America is the largest touring inflatable event in the entire world!

They have created an action-packed day out suitable for all ages and featuring some of the most unique and exciting custombuilt inflatable attractions ever built.

With the world’s largest bounce house (Guinness certified!), Big Bounce America has created a 900ft long inflatable obstacle

course with a giant maze and slides, ball pits and climbing walls galore! With every bounce there’s a whole new experience to be shared and down every slide a new adventure for you, your friends and your family to be a part of. www.thebigbounceamerica.com April 25 – 28 PATEL CONSERVATORY PRESENTS SEUSSICAL, JR. Performed by students in grades 5-8, this musical set in the world of Dr. Seuss features Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat, the Whos and more of your favorite characters. This adventure features toe-tapping and touching songs from Tony®-winning composers Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty and all the color and creativity you’d expect from an adventure in the world of Dr. Seuss. www.strazcenter.org

April 27 TFO POPS: THE MUSIC OF JOHN WILLIAMS Featuring one mega-hit after another from the master of movie music himself. With a career spanning six decades, John Williams has composed the most recognizable scores in cinematic history, including music from Star Wars, Jaws, Harry Potter, Schindler’s List and ET. The Florida Orchestra will be conducted by Daniel Black. www.themahaffey.com

April 27 LIVING HISTORY SATURDAY New for 2019, you can interact with living history reeenactors on the last Saturday of each month at the Tampa Bay History Center. Included with gallery admission, our living history experts are dressed in period attire, and will present stories and artifact demonstrations related to specific

44 • April 2019

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

topics and eras in Florida history. www.tampabayhistorycenter.org April 27 – 28 FROZEN SING-A-LONG AT THE TAMPA THEATRE

The story of the reconciliation and reconnection of Princess Elsa and her sister Ana is a different kind of love story than that of the usual princess movie — and it’s one that everyone can connect with. So run through those vocal exercises, dress as your favorite princess, reindeer or snowman, leave your self-doubt at home and come belt one out with a thousand of your closest friends at Sing-Along Frozen. www.tampatheatre.org

Have an Event?

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

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

The Gulf Coast Family Weekender

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

Stanley Cup Playoffs Watch the Tampa Bay Lightning as they chase their Second Stanley Cup.

5

Sun ‘n Fun Fly In Lakeland www.flysnf.org

With six daily shows and two night shows, The Sun ‘n Fun Fly In is one of the most spectacular aerial displays in the world!

12

Epcot® International Flower & Garden Festival www.disneyworld.com

6

Taste @ the Straz Straz Center www.strazcenter.org

Tampa’s Best Party is back with a new name, a new look, but the same “eat, drink, party” spirit! Best of Tampa Bay is now TASTE @ The Straz, an ALL-INCLUSIVE all-you-caneat food and drink extravaganza boasting more than 50 of Tampa Bay’s finest restaurants and caterers!

13

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Ruth Eckerd Hall www.rutheckerdhall.com

7

Southeast Street Rod Nationals Florida State Fairgrounds www.floridastatefair.com

Enjoy the spectacular vehicles, Swap Meet, Women’s World and even a model car show!

14

19

The front-end loaders are moving more than 1,000 tons of our world famous sugar sand as the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival returns to beautiful Clearwater Beach.

20

Rays Baseball Tropicana Field tampabay.rays.mlb.com

The Tampa Bay Rays host the Boston Red Sox at Tropicana Field.

GO RAYS! All fans get a Ryne Stanek Bottle Opener!

26

(while supplies last)

Patel Conservatory Presents Seussical, Jr. Straz Center April 25–28 www.rutheckerdhall.com

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

27

Tampa Bay International Dragon Boat Races Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park www.jltampa.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

Busch Gardens Food and Wine Festival www.buschgardens.com April 1–28 Feed your appetite for adventure with wild flavors and concerts for every taste!

Daniel and all of his friends invite you for a brand-new adventure in Neighborhood of Make-Believe where Daniel learns just what it takes to be King.

Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival www.sugarsandfestival.com April 12-28

April 5–7

21Easter 2019 Christians celebrate the Easter holiday in many different ways. But without doubt, Easter is the single most important holy day of the Christian Church, for it celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

28

St. Anthony’s Triathlon St. Petersburg www.satriathlon.com

The St. Anthony’s Triathlon attracts a wide range of professional and amateur competitors including Olympic gold medalists, Ironman world champions and celebrity athletes.

April 2019 • 45

46 • April 2019

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Reader

Send us Your Best Photos

PH TOs

YOUR KIDS COULD BE IN GULF COAST FAMILY!

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

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

{of the month}

“Baby Bear” “I just wanna be your teddy bear!”

Christa much… I just have to Sometimes I like my outfit so ’t handle the cuteness! close my eyes… because I can

Eliana, Avea & Josiah “Three little blessings sent from above. Three times the smiles, three times the Love!”

NEPTUNE WATER TREATMENT 4 Stage Reverse Osmosis Fleck 5600 Metered Water Softener HealthWay Deluxe Air Purifier – Removes 99.99% of particulates

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

Atreyu “Play is the highest form of research.” – Albert Einstein

Aaleyah “Dance as if your Feet were Kissing the Ground.”

• Free Water Tests • Free Equipment Inspections • Water Softeners, Reverse Osmosis Sales, Service & Installations • Family Owned & Operated • A Rating with B.B.B. Nick Kavallierakis 727-674-3068 Kavallierakis.Nick@gmail.com April 2019 • 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.

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 Open House: March 6, 9am | April 3, 9am FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE

A Home for Christian families

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