Osprey Observer Summer Camp Guide 2023

SUMMER CAMPS OFFER SPECIALTY SKILLS & LEARNING FUN

It’s hard to believe but summer is just around the corner and camp registrations are open and gearing up for an active and busy camp season!

The staf at the Osprey Observer has collected the top recommendations for local summer camps and created this special pullout section.

Camp Osprey, LLC

For a fun, traditional camp experience, check out Camp Osprey which is located on 204 acres of beautiful woodlands alongside the Little Manatee River in Wimauma. Camp activities include high ropes courses, ziplines, horseback riding and much more.

Mathnasium Of Riverview And Brandon

Have your child’s math skills been impacted by the last school year? Have they fallen behind? Then Camp Mathnasium will be perfect for them, ofering a typical summer camp environment with diferent learning activities.

Music Showcase/FAOPA

The Florida Academy of the Performing Arts at Music Showcase ofers summer camps for aspiring actors and musicians. With a variety of camp options in full and half-day experiences, there’s something for every young entertainer.

ering summer camps since 2004. This summer, students can sign up on a weekly basis or for the whole summer. Meals and field trips included. High 5, Inc.

Brandon’s High 5 Inc. is inviting students to sail away for the best summer of their lives, kicking of on May 30.

All camps begin on May 30 and run through August 4 with ten separate sessions available Mon-

TLC’S Gypsy

TLC’s Gypsy Haven ofers weekly themed riding camps, ages 8-99, focusing on riding and grooming. The camps take place from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sidekicks Summer Camp

Sidekicks Martial Arts is gearing up for its Summer Camp 2022 program with martial arts, field trips

D-Bat Southshore

If you have a baseball or softball players, summer is a great time to develop skills in this state-ofthe-art facility in Ruskin.

Navigator Academy

Full-day camp will be open for K-8th grade students with lunch and field trips included.

River Hills Country Club

Budding tennis players and golfers will find summer camps for kids ages 7-13 for all levels of players with half and full day camps available.

Code Wiz FishHawk

Full and half-day campas for coding and computers with Roblox, robotics, Minecraft, gaming and more.

Camp Cederkirk

Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center is located on 170 acres of woodland along the Alafia River in Lithia and will host weekly camps starting Sunday, June 11. Campers can sign up for a week or the whole summer. Camps include all meals and activities.

FishHawk Fellowship Church

Ofering a selection of half-day sports camps starting Monday June 5 through August 4.

Catch for our Summer Camp Sweepstakes link where the Osprey Observer will buy your child a week of camp at the summer camp of your choice! Or, enter now by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp Free’) contest@ospreyobserver.com. Did we miss a great summer camp option? Let us know by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp’) jhurst@ospreyobserver.com!

Have a great summer of fun!

Make this a summer of creativity with one (or more) of the 50plus camps and classes ofered at the Patel Conservatory. If your child loves to dance, sing or emote, take a look at the courses Patel has scheduled this summer. Whether your child is a beginner or already practicing their Tony Award® speech, Patel has a class to fit their skill level.

Patel students enjoy the advantage of instructors who have real-world experience in the fields of dance, music and theater. Its professionals will teach your burgeoning star the skills necessary to excel in their field. Patel also can fill them in on the nuts-and-bolts aspect of a career in the arts.

It’s an ideal environment for a young person considering a career in the performing arts. Patel has an impressive track record in this regard, with alumni appearing on Broadway, television, national tours and more. Patel alumni also fill vital roles ofstage as well, such as being directors, producers, writers and technicians.

Patel’s Summer Intensives let young performers immerse themselves in their craft, whether the focus is on the voice,

CAMP MATHNASIUM OFFERS ACTIVITIES TO MAKE MATH FUN

By Lily Belcher

Staf Report

a musical instrument, acting or ballet. Many intensives conclude with a ticketed performance open to the public.

There are plenty of non-intensive opportunities as well: beginners’ classes in ballet, jazz and tap; a theater apprentice workshop; classes on adapting literature for the stage; workshops for repertory orchestra and opera; and so much more.

Individual instruction from members of our music and theater faculty is also available, as it is year-round. Learn oneon-one with a professional actor or musician. Individual lessons for musicians are available for beginners and intermediates, as well as more experienced players preparing for a professional career.

Scholarships are available to help cover the cost of tuition. The deadline for financial aid applications is Sunday, April 2.

Learn more about Patel by attending one of its summer open houses: Saturday, March 25 from 9-10 a.m. and Monday, May 22 from 6-7 p.m.

The Patel Conservatory is located at 1010 N. Macinnes Pl. in Tampa. For more information, call 813-222-1040 or visit www.patelconservatory.org.

Mathnasium is hosting its first summer camp since the coronavirus shutdown at the Brandon location from the end of May to early August to help fight ‘the summer slide.’

Camp Mathnasium will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m.-12 Noon for students through sixth grade with a ‘Wild About MATH’ theme. Additionally, the Brandon location will be adding the Great Foundations program for pre-K through kindergarten students following requests from parents and families.

Camp Mathnasium will help students fight the summer slide — the months of learning loss that occurs between the school years.

“I hope that [through] Camp Mathnasium they see how much fun math can be and that it helps keep their skills sharp during the summer,” said franchise owner, operator and center director Becky McDaniels.

Camp Mathnasium will run alongside the year-round Mathnasium program,

but camp days will o f er a typical summer camp environment with different learning activities. Students will begin their morning with an hour of the Mathnasium program to provide an individualized learning lesson for each student. They will then participate in an activity and finish the day with a STEAM activity.

During registration, students can enroll in a minimum of six and maximum of 12 STEAM activities throughout the summer. Students will be divided by age during these activities, allowing older students to take a more in-depth approach.

Families are encouraged to register early so Mathnasium can prepare for the right number of students. A $25 early-bird discount for those that register before Sunday, April 30 will be o f ered. For specific pricing or to learn more about Camp Mathnasium, Great Foundations or Mathnasium’s year-round program, visit www.mathnasium.com.

Patel students enjoy real-world experience in the felds of dance, music and theater.

Camp Mathnasium ofers fun and engaging STEAM activities throughout the summer.

SUMMER’S HERE AND THE TIME IS RIGHT FOR THE BEACH! VACATION! THE ARTS AT PATEL CONSERVATORY

HIGH 5 INC. SUMMER CAMP WILL FEATURE A CRUISE THEME FOR CAMPERS

High 5 Inc. is hosting its annual summer camp to bring kids “Around the World in 50 Days” with cruisethemed activities throughout the summer.

“Each week, the kids will be visiting a diferent country. During their trip, they will learn about its uniqueness, history, culture and so much more,” said director of family experience Jada Spano.

The camp will run from Tuesday, May 30 to Friday, August 4. Each day, participants can arrive as early as 7 a.m. and leave as late as 6 p.m. to accommodate parents’ work schedules over the summer.

Until the camp ofcially starts at 9 a.m., campers can take a High 5 Summer Cruise photo with their family and go to their stateroom, a High 5 classroom separating campers by grade level. The counselor-to-student ratio will be around 1-to-25, but it is often less since activity specialists will support employees during excursions.

Daily excursions will be available for all campers from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Each hour

RIVER HILLS COUNTRY CLUB JUNIOR SUMMER CAMP HELPS CHILDREN LEARN NEW SPORTS WHILE HAVING FUN

By Makenzie Atkins

By Lily Belcher

will feature several diferent options for campers to participate in every day.

“Our travelers learn the basics for familiar and some new sports, such as cricket, soccer, handball, pickleball, tennis, even a little splashball. Meanwhile, travelers that would prefer the nonathletic route will have the opportunity to explore everything from creating their own boomerangs and rain sticks of Australia to carnival costumes and rhythms of the Caribbean islands,” said regional director Nicole Brown-Collins.

Campers will have the option to purchase a lunch or snack, but they are encouraged to pack one lunch and two snacks. They should arrive in a bathing suit and have a change of clothes in their backpacks.

The camp will cost $175 per camper each week for nonmembers, but High 5 members can register for $160.

To register, visit www.high5inc.org/ camp-3.

Sending your children to summer camp where they can get out of the house during those long summer days, make new friends and learn a new sport can be really beneficial at their young age.

River Hills Country Club in Valrico is ofering a Junior Summer Camp for children ages 7-13, Monday through Friday, with days packed full of golf, tennis, swimming and more. Summer camp can be attended in half or full days.

River Hills has multiple summer camp options, such as Golf Camp or Tennis Clinic and Sports Camp, which all involve learning a new sport and spending time with friends while also enjoying other summer camp fun.

The goal of the Junior Summer Camp at River Hills is to combine the right amount of sport instruction with other interesting activities in order to keep children engaged and excited about learning the sport and its etiquette.

River Hills’ Junior Summer Camp will take children from beginner players to competition-ready ones by starting small and building their individual skills. The coaches at River Hills pride themselves in ofering a low-pressure environment where children

can gain respect for the game and fellow players through practicing with their peers.

“Golf camps ofered this summer at River Hills Country Club will expose children to the great game of golf in a nurturing and educational environment,” said Bryan McManis, general manager at River Hills Country Club. “We want to introduce the game in a fun way so they can practice and apply their skills as they progress through the program.”

The River Hills U.S. Kids Golf Curriculum is taught by a PGA-certified instructor, and Tennis Camp will be led by a United States Professional Tennis Association-certified instructor. On top of golf, tennis and other sports lessons, the Junior Summer Camp will also include swimming, movies and other camp activities.

Golf, tennis and other sports at River Hills include instruction and conditioning to build stamina and endurance. Sports instruction will be provided based on the age and level of the children at the camp.

To enroll your children in a River Hills Country Club summer camp, please call 813-653-1554, ext. 242 or visit https://riverhillscountryclub.com/.

River Hills Country Club’s Junior Summer Camp can provide instruction for every level of player.

Daily excursions at High 5 Inc.’s summer camp will feature water and feld activities.

TLC’s Gypsy Haven

Located at 4325 Keysville Rd. in Lithia, TLC’s Gypsy Haven ofers weekly themed riding camps, for ages 8-99, focused on riding and grooming. The camps take place from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. from Monday, June 5 to Friday, August 4. Students pack their own lunch, snacks and drinks and are encouraged to wear light pants or leggings, but boots are a must. The camp boasts one teacher, one aide and one volunteer per 10 students.

For more information, visit www.tlcsfarms.com, call Tammi at 813-842-4236 or email TLCS2867@aol.com.

Te Patel Conservatory

The Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center is hosting a variety of weekly summer camps for rising actors, musicians and dancers starting Tuesday, May 30 and running through Friday, August 4. Weekly camps will take place Monday through Friday, with pre- and post-camp available for an additional $30 each or $50 for both extensions.

Information on the camps offered as well as specific dates, times and pricing are available in the 2023 summer camps and classes brochure on the Straz Center’s website at www. strazcenter.org. For more information on specific details of the camps, contact the admissions staf at 813-222-1040 or 800955-1045 (toll-free).

Tampa YMCA

Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA has what kids crave at one of its many summer camp locations.

YMCA camps ofer an array of fun where activity specialists will lead campers through various experiences each day, including swimming, science, high ropes, outdoor education, nature encounters, horseback riding, canoeing, visual arts and more.

All camps begin on Tuesday, May 30 and run through Friday, August 4 with 10 separate sessions available from Monday to Friday. Book one weeklong session or book them all. Camp programming runs from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. with free early-morning care beginning at 7 a.m. and free afternoon extended care until 6 p.m. Prices start at only $184 per week for YMCA members and are open to the public. Discounted rates for members, early registration, siblings, multicamp sign-ups and early-bird registration are available.

For more information on specific locations and pricing and to register, visit www. tampaymca.org/programs/camp/summer-camp.

Camp Osprey LLC

For a fun, traditional camp experience, check out Camp Osprey, which is located on 204 acres of beautiful woodlands alongside the Little Manatee River in Wimauma. Camp activities include high ropes courses,

ziplines, horseback riding and much more.

Camps take place every week starting on Sunday, June, and campers can sign up for a week or the whole summer. Day and overnight options are available, with day camp costing $325 a week and overnight being $795. Meals are provided and snacks can be purchased in the camp canteen.

New this year is COSMO Camp Osprey Smoky Mountain Outdoor adventures for groups of 12 campers ages 13-16 years old.

The camp is located at 18050 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Wimauma and can be reached at 941-928-6860. For more information, visit www.camposprey. com.

Kids ‘R’ Kids

Kids ‘R’ Kids has been ofering summer camps since 2004. This summer, students can sign up on a weekly basis or for the whole summer from Tuesday, May 30 to Friday, August 4.

“Camp will showcase unique weekly themes designed to make your campers smile, think, explore, collaborate and grow in exciting new directions,” said Fernandes. “Our camp includes all meals and field trips to a Rays game, Sea Screamer in Clearwater, Ringling Museum, Treasure Island Fun Center and much more.”

Kids ‘R’ Kids Circa FishHawk is located at

5815 Kids Crossing Dr. in Lithia and can be reached at 813-654-7000. Visit its website at wwwkrkcirca.com for more information and to register.

Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center

Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center is located on 170 acres of woodland alongside the Alafia River in Lithia.

Camps take place weekly from Sunday to Friday starting on Sunday, June 11 and finishing on Friday, August 4; campers can sign up for a week or the whole summer. Cedarkirk ofers overnight camps for older students, and younger campers in grades one through three can attend a shorter three-day camp. Camps range in price from $465 a week to $510 and include all meals plus two daily snacks. Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center is located at 1920 Streetman Dr. in Lithia and can be reached at 813-685-4224. For more information and to register, visit www.cedarkirk.org.

Code Wiz FishHawk

Code Wiz FishHawk is located in Park Square at 16132 Churchview Dr. in Lithia. It will be running full and half-day camps for students interested in computers and coding. Camp activities will include Roblox, robotics, Minecraft and building your own 2D/3D video games. The half-day camp runs from 9 a.m.-12 Noon and from 1-4 p.m.; a full-

JUUNNIIOOR R SUMMMER R C CAMP

GO

US Kids Golf Curriculum taught by PGA Certified Instructors can take virtually any player from absolute beginner to an elite competition player in simple, incremental steps.

A positive no pressure learning environment where respect for the game of golf and fellow players is taught.

A fun experience that includes golf instruction, rules and etiquette with additional non golf fun activities in the afternoon available i.e. swimming, movies and other camp activities.

It is the goal of this camp to combine just the right amount of golf instruction to keep students engaged in enjoying the game of golf.

day is 9 a.m.-4 p.m. A week of half-day camp is $350 and $550 for a full-day camp; discounts are available for siblings, multicamp and early-bird registrations. For more information, visit www.thecodewiz. com/fishhawk-fl or call 813-820-6583.

Mathnasium Of Riverview & Brandon Mathnasium’s personalized learning plans are proven to improve grades and give them a head start going into the new school year. With live face-to-face instruction, either in-center or online, its summer programs are designed to work in tandem with the other summer camps and activities. Just two or three one-hour sessions per week are all kids need to help keep their math skills on track for the upcoming school year, and your child will continue to enjoy summer because Mathnasium makes learning math fun. Space is limited so don’t delay in registering your child.

Call today for a free assessment.

Mathnasium of Brandon (www.mathnasium.com/brandon) is located at 1048 Bloomingdale Ave. and can be reached at 813-655-6284, and Mathnasium of Riverview (www.mathnasium.com/riverview) is located at 1388 U.S. 301 and can be reached at 813-565-1102. Coming soon is a new location at 13388 S. U.S. 301 in Riverview.

Music Showcase

The Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA) at Music Showcase ofers summer

camps for aspiring actors and musicians. With a variety of camp options in full and half-day experiences, there’s something for every young entertainer.

The traditional camp exposes campers to music and more. You can sign up for one weeklong camp or you can sign up for multiple camps. Camps are structured by age, ability and interest.

Its other camp option is a musical theater camp, where campers work together over the course of a few weeks to put on a show.

For further details, visit www.faopa.org or call 813490-2787. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

River Hills Junior Summer Camp

Do you have a budding tennis or golf player in your home? Sign them up for camp at River Hills Country Club, which aims to combine just the right amount of sport instruction with fun to keep your children loving the sport. Camps are suitable for all ages from 7-13 years old and all levels of players, having a U.S. Kids Golf curriculum being taught by PGA-certified instructors and tennis instruction with drills and conditioning from a USPTA instructor. Half and full-day sessions are available. River Hills Country Club is located at 3943 New River Hills Pkwy. in Valrico. For more information on summer

camps, visit www.riverhillscountryclub.com or call 813-653-1554, ext. 242.

High 5 Inc.

Brandon’s High 5 Inc. is inviting students to go “Around the World In 50 Days,” kicking of on Tuesday, May 30 and running through Friday, August 4.

Each week students will be visiting a different country and learn about its uniqueness, history, culture and so much more.

Camp is ofered Monday through Friday from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. at High 5, which is located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon. Campers can sign up for individual weeks throughout the summer or the entire summer. To register, visit www.high5inc.org/camp-3.

Camp costs $175 a week per child for nonmembers and High 5 members can register for $160.

To learn more, visit www.high5inc.org or call 813-689-0908.

D-BAT South Shore

Does your child love baseball or softball? Help them develop their skills this summer at D-BAT South Shore, located at 351 30th St. NE in Ruskin. Summer camp programs are being ofered from Monday, May 29 to Friday, July 28, and state-of-the-art technology will be used

to allow campers to enhance and improve basic baseball and softball skills. This is a great opportunity for students to get involved with others who share their desire to grow and develop their ball skills. Camp runs on a weekly basis from 8:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and costs $175 a week for platinum members. Additional information can be found on its website at https://dbatsouthshore.com/ or by calling 813-645-3228.

Navigator Academy

Summer camp at Navigator Academy is a full-day camp open for incoming kindergarteners to eighth graders. Weekly and daily rates are available, with field trips and lunch included. Navigator Academy is located at 1101 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Additional information can be found on its website at www.navigatoracademyvalrico.com.

FishHawk Fellowship Church

FishHawk Fellowship Church, located at 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia is ofering a selection of half-day sports camps, including basketball, soccer and flag football, running from Monday, June 5 until Friday, August 4. Most camps are for first through fifth graders, with some available for first through eighth graders from Monday, June 26 to August 4. All camps run from 8:30 a.m.12:30 p.m., and the price is $105 for the week. For additional information, call 813655-7431.

HIT A HOME RUN WITH D-BAT SOUTH SHORE THIS SUMMER

Looking for a way to help fill your child’s summer? Look no further than D-BAT South Shore, where summer camp programs are being offered to help your child develop their baseball or softball skills while having a great time and making new friends. D-BAT ofers state-ofthe-art technology that is implemented into the training, which allows campers to enhance and improve basic baseball and softball skills. Some of this technology includes, but is not limited to, Hack Attack pitching machines and Blast Motion hitting technology. Another great aspect of this camp is that all it requires of the young players is to show up with the basic gear for the sport along with lunch and water, then they are good to go. This is a great opportunity for kids to get involved with others who share their same interest and a desire to grow and develop their skills while engaging in classic baseball and softball comradery. The facility features both indoor and outdoor setups to ensure that camp can continue unimpeded by the elements, while the indoor elements of the site are climate-con-

By Jonathan Hurst

trolled. With a camper-to-instructor ratio of 8-1, every player who comes through the camp will be well coached and attended to.

D-BAT South Shore also features nine batting cages along with pitching lanes to ensure that campers are getting their skill practice in. If they are doing well, there are also end-of-week prizes for the skill leaders of the week.

This summer camp runs on a week to week basis from Monday, May 29 through Friday, July 28, and can be attained for as little as $175 for the entire week for platinum members. Further discounts for early sign-ups, multicamp sign-ups and signing up siblings together. Every camp runs on the weekdays with the drop-of opening at 8:45 a.m. and the latest pickup being at 2:30 p.m.

D-BAT South Shore is located at 351 30th St. NE in Ruskin. For more information, visit its website at https://dbatsouthshore.com/, go to its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/DBATsports/ or call 813-645-3228.

TAMPA YMCA HOSTS SUMMER CAMPS TO TEACH KIDS

SKILLS

WHILE HAVING FUN

It’s that time of year again where you have to begin to decide what summer camp is best for your children. With over 130 years of experience in providing a safe place for kids in the community, Tampa YMCA Summer Camp is a great choice for filling those long summer days with something exciting and educational.

The YMCA ofers a variety of summer camp options, from art camp to adventure camp there is something for everyone.

“Summer camp is more than singalongs and splash pads,” said Michelle Leahy, camp director at Campo Family YMCA. “Campers at the Tampa YMCA ACA-accredited summer day camps are given a safe space to discover who they are and what they want to become while experiencing fun, friends and adventure.”

Summer camps are open from Tuesday, May 30 to Friday, August 4 and range from $184-$225 a week for YMCA members and $235-$298 for non-YMCA members. Multiweek teen camps start at $330 for members and $410 for non-YMCA members.

Campers are expected to wear cool, comfortable clothing that can get dirty, closed-toe and closed-back shoes as well as

By Makenzie Atkins

sunscreen, and they should bring a bathing suit and towel since campers will have the opportunity to swim in the YMCA pools.

Join in on the fun in one of the many locations in Brandon, Riverview, Plant City, Tampa and more.

Tampa YMCA

Summer Camps being ACA-accredited means they underwent a thorough review on operations by the American Camp Association (ACA), from staf qualifications and training to emergency management, and complied with the highest standards in the industry. With ACA accreditation, the YMCA is one of the safest places to get your kids to fun out of the house this summer, as not only are staf certified in first aid and CPR, but they are also certified fun and learning experts.

Tampa YMCA Summer Camp prides itself in helping kids explore personal interests, build self-esteem, develop interpersonal skills, discover the creativity and health benefits of the outdoors and make lasting friendships and memories.

Visit https://tampaymca.org/letscamp or find the YMCA on social media at TampaYMCA.

Tampa YMCA Summer Camps help children learn about themselves while developing friendships.

RIVERVIEW BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB HELPS LOCAL YOUTHS

Duwayne ‘Coach

Tony’ Smith of Valrico is a retired Tampa police ofcer who served on the force for 28 years. He came out of retirement to start working at the Riverview Boys and Girls Club, overseeing its Passport to Manhood and SMART Girls programs. “I love helping kids and this program seemed like the perfect fit for me,” Smith said. “The young men refer to themselves as the ‘Gentlemen Club.’”

The Passport to Manhood program represents a targeted efort to engage young boys in discussions and activities that reinforce character, leadership and positive behavior. Each participant receives a ‘passport’ to underscore the notion that he is on a personal journey of maturation and growth. Each of the program’s 14 sessions use interactive activities to focus on a specific aspect of character and manhood. It also includes a service project where boys learn the importance of giving back to the community.

SMART Girls is a small-group health, fitness, prevention/education and self-esteem enhancement program designed to meet the developmental needs of girls in three age groups, spanning ages 8-18. Through dynamic sessions, participatory activities, field trips and mentoring opportunities with

SUMMER OF SONG AND DANCE RETURNS WITH MUSIC SHOWCASE

By Jonathan Hurst

By Libby Hopkins

adult women, club girls explore their own and societal attitudes and values as they build skills for eating right, staying physically fit, getting good health care and developing positive relationships with peers and adults.

On December 9, 2022, the Passport to Manhood/SMART Girls programs were celebrated at the club.

“The young men served the young ladies and female parents dessert after their dinner hour,” Smith said.

“Prior to the event, the young men were apprehensive of doing such an event. I was able to convince the young men on how to be polite and courteous to women in general through numerous classroom discussions and practice. One young man told me that he thought that this was a great idea because he has witnessed a few of his friends mistreat their girlfriends.”

The young ladies and parents were served cheesecake and Bundt cakes.

“The ladies were personally greeted and escorted in the decorated classroom for dessert,” Smith said. “Tyree Braxton, a sophomore at Spoto High School, was our narrator and speaker.

Visit https://bgcriverview.com/. The club is located at 6809 Krycul Ave. in Riverview.

For a summer of song and dance look no further than the Music Showcase from the Florida Academy of Performing Arts. Here, the campers will be immersed in the world of performing with a variety of options to get involved. Whether your child wants to just test the waters or is a full-fledged theater enthusiast, there are plenty of options.

For those who are a little unsure, there are full and half-day options for the weeklong camp Music and More, where students will interact with multiple avenues of performing, such as acting, singing, dancing and more. Students will also be exposed to instruments to see if anything clicks for them, as well as general art. Drop-o f time for Music and More opens at 8 a.m., and the latest pickup time is at 6 p.m.

For those with a bit more of a commitment to performing arts, there is the Musical Theater Camp, which is a bit more intensive when it comes to the theater aspect. This camp runs for two weeks and involves the students learn -

ing about how to put on a production and all the elements that go into that. These students will work on skills such as acting, singing and various theater techniques and practices. This camp concludes with a performance of a play featuring the campers.

Musical Theater Camp runs from 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

“There is something for all ages and abilities,” said academy director Danielle Sanchez.

The Music and More camp runs weekly from Tuesday, May 30 through Friday, August 4, and Musical Theater camp has the same time frame but on a two-week schedule. There is a one-time $30 registration fee with the cost of the Music and More at $230 a week and $275 for the Musical Theater Camp. There are scholarships and discounts for siblings available as well.

For further details, visit www.faopa. org or call 813-490-2787. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

On December 9, 2022, the Riverview Boys and Girls Club celebrated its Passport to Manhood and SMART Girls programs.

Music Showcase has eight weeks of Music and More summer camp.

CIMINO ELEMENTARY’S COACH DANIEL MACKO AWARDED TECO COACH OF THE BAY

During the Tampa Bay Lightning home game versus the Boston Bruins on January 26, Cimino Elementary School’s coach Daniel Macko was recognized as the 2022 Tampa Bay Lightning Coach of the Bay presented by TECO.

Macko has been teaching physical education at Cimino Elementary for 14 years. He is passionate about creating enjoyable activities that instill confidence.

“What makes coaching special to me is the relationship I get to create with students for six years. Most teachers only have a child for one year. So, it’s awesome I get to see these kids grow up and develop the physical skills to be become better and confident in sports and in themselves,” Macko said.

Macko introduces sports and skills that will help students live a positive heathy lifestyle. Cimino Principal Joann Grifths said Macko inspires everyone he is around.

“Coach Macko is our hero. He represents all that is possible and positive. He exudes a can-do attitude that is uplifting and contagious. Danny demonstrates the character traits we all strive to achieve. He is our Coach of the Bay each and every day,” Griffiths said.

With a focus on making sports fun for students, Macko hopes his students will be

SUN ’N FUN AEROSPACE EXPO 2023 COMING IN MARCH

By Jane Owen

inspired to stay active throughout their lives. He loves making a diference in his students’ lives.

“My favorite part of coaching is creating activities that they remember for a lifetime. I still have students that come back that are adults now and tell me how much they loved this activity or that activity. It always brings a smile to my face,” Macko said.

Macko was named Cimino Elementary Teacher of the Year in 2012 and graduated from the University of South Florida in 2009. The TECO Coach of the Bay designation has been awarded since 2019.

Macko received recognition during the game, a personalized Lightning jersey and $1,000 to give to the charity of his choice; he chose the Down Syndrome Association of Tampa Bay (on Facebook @21StrongForever).

“I chose the Down Syndrome Association of Tampa Bay because we have a student at our school who has touched the hearts of our family,” Macko said. Cimino Elementary is located at 4329 Culbreath Rd. Valrico. Visit www.hillsboroughschools.org/cimino.

Save the date for one of one of the largest and most successful aviation events in the world, the 2023 SUN ’n FUN Aerospace Expo, as it prepares to celebrate its 49th anniversary. The March 28 - April 2 event in Lakeland is the first major air show of the year. SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo, has also announced that E3 Aviation Association is the new title sponsor. The partnership allows for the more than 200,000 aviation enthusiasts from around the world to enjoy what has become known as Aviation’s Season Opener or Spring Break for Pilots.

Taking of for its 49th year, SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo showcases of hundreds of aircraft on display including Vintage, Homebuilt, Aerobatic, Warbird, Jet, and Light Sport.

One of the highlights of the five-day expo is the Blue Angels, the high-flying and awe-inspiring flight demonstration squadron of the U.S. Navy.

Additional special airshow acts include U.S. Air Force F-35 Lightening II Demonstration Team, the U.S. Marine Corp F-35B Lightening II Demonstration Team, and Doug Rozendaal flying Mr. Mulligan, the Howard DGA-6 pioneer racing plane.

SUN ‘n FUN also features more than 500

exhibitors, hands-on workshops teaching building and maintenance skills, and educational forums from pilots and maintainers about safety, new products, and other timely topics.

“E3 Aviation Association is the perfect partner to join SUN ‘n FUN this year. It’s an amazing brand fit in every way with the experiential event we’ve created,” said Gene Conrad, President and CEO for SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo. “At the core of it all is our shared passion for aviati-on. We have so many fun and interesting surprises waiting for our visitors this year.“

Tickets for SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo are available online at flysnf.org.

From its humble beginnings in 1974, SUN ‘n FUN Fly-In, Inc. is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit that mar-kets and supports dozens of yearround events, including the Aerospace Expo. Proceeds from these events are the primary source of funding for The Aerospace Center for Excellence (ACE), which has emerged as a nationally recognized leader in STEM-related and aerospace education through its various learning centers, outreach programs, scholarships, and summer camps aimed at engaging, educating and accelerating the next generation of aerospace professionals. Learn more at flysnf.org.

Photo courtesy of Vinik Sport Group Coach Daniel Macko of Cimino Elementary School was recognized as the 2022 Coach of the Bay presented by TECO at a recent Tampa Bay Lightning game.

Te Annual SUN n FUN Aerospace Expo brings thousands of visitors to see thrilling ari shows along with hundreds of aircraft on display.

ALL HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY K-12 STUDENTS ENCOURAGED TO ENTER WATER CONSERVATION POSTER CONTEST

Hillsborough County K-12 students are encouraged to channel their inner artist, blend it with a passion for water conservation and enter the 2023 Drop Savers Water Conservation Poster Contest, which is sponsored by Hillsborough County and the City of Tampa.

All Hillsborough County students from kindergarten through 12th grade can enter the contest by creating a poster depicting water conservation. Each student who enters a poster in the contest must create an original idea that portrays water conservation in a slogan and/or drawing form. Each poster will be judged on the message, creativity, originality and artistic ability. The poster must be drawn on 8.5 by 11-inch white paper and may be drawn vertically or horizontally. Students may use crayons, paint, colored pencils or markers. No highlighters, photos or computer graphics are permitted.

There are five divisions in the contest:

• Division one: Kindergarten and first grade students.

• Division two: Second and third grade students.

• Division three: Fourth and fifth grade students.

• Division four: All middle school grades.

• Division five: All high school grades.

Each school will select one winner from each division for submission to the local level. A panel of water conservation specialists from Hillsborough County Water Resources and the City of Tampa Water Department will judge all school winning posters on the message, creativity, originality and artistic ability and choose a first, second and third-place local winner for each division. The first-place local winners will advance to the statewide level, judged by the Florida Section of the American

Water Works Association (FSAWWA).

The submission deadline for the local-level judging is Wednesday, March 1. Learn more about the Drop Savers Poster Contest rules on the Drop Savers Poster Contest webpage at http:// www.hcflgov.net/.

The first-place local winners for each division will win:

• A bottle-filling station installation at their school (this is only available to public schools).

• Customized reusable water bottles imprinted with their artwork to share with their classmates.

• Posters of their artwork to take home and for display in their art classroom.

• A water conservation retrofit kit (low-flow aerators and showerhead, toilet leak detection dye tablets, hose nozzle and more).

• Inclusion of their artwork on water conservation awareness posters displayed above bottle-filling stations throughout Hillsborough County (Find locations at www.hcflgov.net/waterconservation).

• Inclusion of their artwork on promotional materials for future contests.

• Advancement to the statewide-level FSAWWA Drop Savers Poster Contest for additional prizes.

In addition, first, second and thirdplace local winners from each division will get their artwork displayed on www. hcflgov.net and www.tampa.gov. All participants will receive a certificate of appreciation.

Students who enter the statewide competition can win gifts cards, a plaque with poster, a water conservation kit and more.

For information about the 2023 Drop Savers Water Conservation Poster Contest, email waterconservation@hcflgov. net or call 813-612-7705.

2022 First Place Winner Division One was Ayaan Sangomola from Chiles Elementary School.

2022 First Place Winner Division Five was Miki Lin from Brandon High School.

2022 First Place Winner Division Four was Mahi Patel from Chiles Elementary School.

NEW INTERACTIVE SPLASH AND PLAY

Adventure Island, Tampa’s premier water park, will open for the 2023 season on Saturday, March 4, and the park’s newest addition, Shaka-Laka Shores, opens in late March. The new splash and play zone, located in the heart of Adventure Island, will feature an area with 25 individual elements and a central kid-friendly play structure bound to entertain and engage even the youngest of guests. Shaka-Laka Shores will greet guests as they enter the park and showcase the waterpark’s overarching tropical paradise theme.

The newest addition will have more than two dozen playful elements and a variety of interactive aquatic components, all within a zero-depth area — ideal for smaller kids — as well as additional shaded areas. The newly constructed area will also house three new private cabanas featuring convenient access to the new area. Shaka-Laka Shores joins a comprehensive list of exciting water slides, Endless Surf’s 17,000-squarefoot wave pool, an additional kid-friendly option in Splash Attack and more.

“Shaka-Laka Shores’ vibrant and interactive elements are bound to provide our

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youngest guests with a playful space to splash and explore,” said Neal Thurman, park president of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Adventure Island. “Shaka-Laka Shores will bundle the elements of excitement

and inter- activity to serve as another great option for families experiencing Adventure Island.”

The opening of Shaka-Laka Shores, along with recently opened attractions Rapids Racer and Wahoo Remix, is part of the waterpark’s largest expansion in more than four decades. Guests are quickly immersed in a revitalized and vibrant theme from a newly designed front entrance and carried over into the park with new lounging areas, additional cabanas and even new refreshment locations, such as the full-service Hang Ten Tiki Bar.

Adventure Island’s Annual Pass is the best way to enjoy an entire year of family fun under the sun, including the new Shaka-Laka Shores and exciting seasonal events.

Visit https://adventureisland.com/ to purchase tickets and learn more about the Annual Pass program benefits, new events, special deals and future announcements.

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BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY

BECOMES NEW HOME FOR BANDAR, A CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SUMATRAN TIGER

Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay recently announced the arrival of a male, 9-year-old Sumatran tiger named Bandar who joined the park’s diverse collection of more than 200 animal species. Bandar was transferred from the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium in Tacoma, Washington and is the park’s first Sumatran tiger to join the existing streak of tigers. In his new habitat, he will join Rukayah and Zahra, a Malayan and Bengal tiger, respectively. Park guests are now able to get up close with Bandar, who resides in the Jungala realm of the park.

“Watching Bandar settle into his new home is exciting and inspiring,” said Jenny Mendoza, vice president - zoological for Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. “We are very thrilled to provide him with a home for him to thrive, share his story with our guests and have our zoological facilities serve as a building block for the prosperous future of all tigers.”

The Sumatran tiger is a critically endangered species on the brink of extinction. With less than 400 known Sumatran tigers in the wild, Bandar is part of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s participation in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP). The mission of the SSP is to cooperatively manage specific species popu-

lations within AZA-accredited facilities, such as Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, which has successfully managed tiger populations for more than five decades.

Guests interested in experiencing a unique and up-close look at Bengal, Malayan and Sumatran tigers can purchase a Tiger Insider Tour to gain an insider’s perspective of the care of this endangered species and learn how our parks help to protect this powerful species in the wild. Through these engaging and educational opportunities, guests can learn how they can make a diference for their counterparts in the wild.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the ultimate family adventure, ofering 300 acres of fascinating attractions based on exotic explorations around the world. Busch Gardens is a unique blend of thrilling rides, an AZA-accredited zoo with thousands of animals representing more than 200 species and exciting seasonal events all year providing unrivaled experiences for guests of every age.

Guests can learn more about all the events, special deals and future announcements at Busch Gardens by visiting https:// buschgardens.com/ and following Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.

A rendering of Shaka-Laka Shores, Adventure Island’s new splash and play zone.

HCPS AWARDED SCHOOL-BASED MENTAL HEALTH GRANT TO ASSIST THE NEEDS OF OUR DIVERSE STUDENT POPULATION

Hillsborough County

Public Schools has been awarded a five-year School-based Mental Health (SBMH) grant for approximately $8.5 million. The grant is funded through the United States Department of Education, Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities-National Programs. Federal funds will contribute $8,562,135 (75 percent) towards the School-based Mental Health project and non-federal match funds will contribute $2,140,534 (25 percent). Inkind match funds include the salary of supplemental social workers providing mental health supports in the district.

This School-based Mental Health Service project will implement a comprehensive recruitment and retention plan with the goal of increasing the number of credentialed school-based mental health service providers serving Hillsborough County Public Schools students. The comprehensive strategy outlined in the project includes activities that focus on restructuring compensation, recruiting personnel from diverse backgrounds that reflect the demographic makeup of the district’s students and providing a robust array of professional development opportunities to support new and existing staf members.

The district expects that the project will result in the following outcomes:

THOMAS THE TANK ENGINE VISITS THE FLORIDA RAILROAD MUSEUM

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• Increased recruitment of school psychologists, school counselors and school social workers to mirror student demographics.

• Stabilization of staf retention rates.

• Increased availability of school-based mental health resources for students, teachers and administrators.

• Improved local capacity to support school-based mental health service providers through the provision of high-quality professional development opportunities.

• Formalization of district partnerships with Institutes of Higher Education (IHEs) to create a pipeline of future applicants.

Students’ mental health needs are increasing at an exponential rate, and there are simply not enough resources available within schools or through community providers to meet the identified needs. It is expected the implementation of this SBMH project will provide the funds to recruit new, highly qualified mental health-based employees, including approximately 30-40 school counselors, 10-20 school psychologists and 20-30 school social workers. In addition, the funds from the SBMH project will provide robust, supportive professional development to retain current staf, all to meet the growing mental health needs of our students throughout the district.

Ride along Thomas the Tank Engine during its Party Train Tour at the Florida Railroad Museum in Parrish on select weekends in April. Dates include Saturday, April 17; Sunday, April 18; Saturday, April 24; and Sunday, April 25. Prices range from $19 to $23, depending on the time of day for peak and non-peak pricing. To add, anyone 24 months old and up will need a ticket to enter. Advanced tickets will be required.

Florida Railroad Museum’s events director, Glenn Miley, mentioned how this event came into fruition.

“Thomas the Tank Engine has been visiting the Florida Railroad Museum for 10 years and is coming back in April,” Miley said.

While on board Thomas the Tank Engine, attendees will have a party pass to receive favors at numerous stops along the way. An array of activities that attendees could participate in would include crafts, checking out the party corner for lawn game fun and more. Those interested will also get an opportunity to say hello to Sir Topham Hatt or even visit the pop-up gift shop.

This event will be abiding by the local

government guidelines with enhanced safety protocols in place.

“There will be extra cleaning between trains. Sanitizer stations will also be placed around the grounds,” Miley said.

Founded as the Florida Gulf Coast Railroad Museum, the Florida Railroad Museum, Inc. was established with the goal to preserve Florida’s railroad history that existed in the 1940s and 1950s. The museum itself consists of exhibits that individuals can ride. The Florida Railroad Museum operates on a 6-mile line between Parrish and Willow in rural Manatee County. As a side note, this specific railroad line was the first to be built in Manatee County. The trains are operated by the Florida Railroad Museum volunteers, and throughout the year, special weekend events such as this one will occur.

For more information, visit http:// www.frrm.org. To purchase tickets, visit https://www.ticketweb.com/venue/florida-railroad-museum-parrish-fl/83825. It is located at 12210 83rd St. E. in Parrish and is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Call 941-776-0906.

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Tomas the Tank Engine makes an appearance during its Party Train Tour at the Florida Railroad Museum.