Osprey Observer Summer Camp Guide 2021

Page 1

Page 28

Valrico Edition

Volume 18, Issue 4

SUMMER CAMPS OFFER MANY OPTIONS TO KEEP KIDS ACTIVE AND ENGAGED Have you got the calendar ready? Last summer, most children’s fun plans were affected by the pandemic, but this year, organizations all over the area are ready to keep children active, engaged and, most importantly, safe during the time off school. The staff at the Osprey Observer has collected the top recommendations for local summer camps and created this special pull-out section. We asked local camps what they are doing to keep students healthy while giving them the summer of fun they deserve. At Music Showcase, music and theater take the stage, and so can your child. Musicals will be offered where your child can hold starring roles in popular musicals offered by the Florida Academy of Performing Arts for children ages 5 and up. The local YMCAs will offer many types of camps at its great summer camp location, Camp Cristina in Riverview, which mixes fun along with great learning experiences. With plenty of choices, there is something for everyone. A Child’s Haven offers kitchen-pre-

pared meals and various activities for children in kindergarten through fifth grade. Weekly themes utilizing age-specific activities and field trips are what make BSAC’s Camp High 5 unique.

Specialty camps for soccer (Florida Hawks FC), baseball (Ostingers Academy)

basketball and flag football (FishHawk Fellowship Church) and art (Center Place) also offer great opportunities for creative and athletic summer learning. Kids ‘R’ Kids at Circa FishHawk and Valrico offer full and half-day summer fun with weekly field trips and themes. What better skill to learn in the summer than scuba diving and Trilogy Dive Center makes it easy with a week-long course for children 10 and older with pick up from BSAC in Brandon. After 16 years of bringing successful STEM camps to the Brandon area, Tech-

Playzone will host camps this year at the newly reopened Center Place and virtually for families who prefer to stay at home. For dates, prices and registration information on these camps and more, turn the pages, enjoy this special section and have a great summer. Our staff has also compiled information on the COVID-19 policies from temperature checks to sanitation procedures for these camps to help you feel confident on where you want to send your children this summer. Watch 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! 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’) kquesada@ ospreyobserver.com and we will be sure to add it to our full listing online. Have a great summer of fun!


Valrico Edition

April 2021

THE FLORIDA ACADEMY OF THE PERFORMING ARTS AT MUSIC SHOWCASE HOSTS A VARIETY OF SUMMER CAMP PROGRAMS By Kelly Wise Valdes Summer is right around the corner and campers can sign up for music-oriented many families are already looking for fun camps where they can experience differsummer camp activities for their children. ent instruments, voice, acting, dance and Summer camps build memories and friend- art. Camps are structured by age, ability ships that can last a lifetime. If you have and interests. The benefits of participating an aspiring actor, musician or entertainer in arts education include improved acain your family, demic performance and then the Floriincreased self-esteem. da Academy of Danielle Sanchez, the Performing director of FAOPA, is Arts (FAOhappy to offer families PA) at Music programs that allow Showcase is their children a unique exactly what summer camp you’re looking experience. for. “It’s great seeTo keep eving the students The Florida Academy of the eryone safe, many progress so Performing Arts is hosting protocols are be- its annual summer camp quickly in their ing implemented, programs at Music Showcase in Brandon. Regis- craft, come together as including masks, a team and form friendtration begins in mid-March. limited camp sizes ships that last a lifetime,” and temperature checks. Students will be said Sanchez. “We hear from the parents able to bring their own food and beverages and students that they like the energy, the (labeled with their name). professionalism, the sense of inclusion and There are many camp options, including belonging, the opportunity to work with full and half-day camps for musical theater talented and loving directors and the variwith full performances at the end and cos- ety of programming and activities.” tumes, props and set designs. Some of the The Florida Academy of Performing Arts musicals that will be performed are Honk is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that Jr., Singing in the Rain Jr., Alice in Wonder- was established to support the performing land Jr., Newsies Jr., Little Mermaid, Musi- arts through programs at the academy and cal Revue - Disney on Broadway, Broadway in the community. for the Decades and The Addams Family. Camp registration opens in mid-March. Also offered is an a cappella camp, For further details, visit www.FAOPA.org Broadway boot camp, acting intensives or call 490-2787. Music Showcase is locatand acting improv camp. In addition, ed at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

Florida Hawks FC Summer Camp

“Soccer Fun with Coach Juan”

Page 29

BSAC’S SUMMER CAMP PRESENTS THIS YEAR’S THEME: PEACE, LOVE AND HIGH 5

By Hayley Fedor

Let the fun families during and games bethe pandemic. gin because the Hand sanitizing Brandon Sports stations will and Aquatic be provided Center (BSAC) throughout the is getting ready property and to welcome masks are manback children datory upon grades K 5 entry. Both parthrough sixth ticipants and for Camp High staff will also 5 this summer. undergo a temBSAC is doperature check ing something at the start of special with the each day at camp this year the camp. and taking a In light Camp High 5 keeps children Retro Approach engaged and energized with a of the panvariety of activities. to their camp demic, this theme. Peace, summer, Love & High5 Kicks off June 1st, 2021. BSAC will Each week will feature a different theme be capping based off of a musical era, starting in the the camp at 50s and working all the way up to today. 200 particiAt BSAC and through Camp High 5, chil- pants. dren are able to participate in a variety of Camp High 5 will begin on Monday, June recreations that are based around aquat- 1st and will be in session on weekdays, ics, arts and crafts as well as sports. Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. “A lot of what our kids do is the aquatic at BSAC, which is located at 405 Beverly time so they’re in the pool, but they’re also Blvd. in Brandon. Registration is currently outdoors participating in sports and rec- open and will be available until each week reational activities,” said Chuck Burgess, of the camp has reached its capacity. CEO. To register your child for camp or to find Additionally, the staff at BSAC are taking out more information about Camp High 5 extra preventative measures this summer and the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Cento ensure the safety of participants and ter, visit https://www.mybsac.org/camp.

WWW.CAMPOSPREY.COM -6860

941-928

Boys and Girls

born between 2014 and 2009 July 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 2021 9.00 am to 1.00 pm

t pt Secre Best Ke pa Bay! in Tam

g CDC Followinlines Guide

All-Inclusive Kids Overnight Adventure Camp For Ages 7-15 $525 Week - Sunday 4pm - Saturday 10am Day Camp Available: Mon - Fri 8 am to 6 pm $250 - By the day $50 Breakfast and lunch is provided.

Soccer Fields of the FishHawk Sports Complex Lithia FL

Your child must bring: • Readiness to have a lot of fun playing soccer • Cleats, shin guards, and a ball • Snack • Water bottle

Our instructors have 30 years combined professional playing and coaching experience.

Session 1 Session 2 June 7-11 (M-F) June 21-25 (M-F)

Session 3 July 12- 16 (M-F)

Session 4 July 26- 30 (M-F)

Location:

$195.00 if registered before April 15, 2021 $225.00 if registered after April 15, 2021 CAMP FEATURES:

Age appropriate technical and tactical instruction • Small sided games • Daily 5 v 5 Competitions Daily Soccer Tennis and Soccer Golf Competitions • Professional coaching staff • Camp T Shirt Registration:www.floridahawksfc.com Contact Juan E De Brigard, Director of Coaching, Florida Hawks FC | doc@floridahawksfc.com • Cell # 754 244 3016

M-W Ostingers Academy • 8711 Lithia Pinecrest Road Th-F Field for games and other activities Age Group: 7 - 14 yrs Space is Limited Register Early Time: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm to hold your spot! Cost: $235/camper $200/ multi camp or multi child discount *Must register for multi camp discount all at once

Daily Instruction • Games • Pitching/Catching Fundamentals Addressed • Drills For More Information:

Call 813.737.3000 or visit our website at www.OstingBaseball.com


Page 30

Valrico Edition

Volume 18, Issue 4

SAFE AND FUN SUMMER CAMPS AT YMCA

KIDS ‘R’ KIDS PREPARES FOR A FUN SUMMER

By Libby Hopkins

By Libby Hopkins

“Summer is the ideal time for kids to get CDC and local health officials come June,” up, get out and explore. But, for some kids, Llerena said. “We are in constant commusummer means no access to recreational nication with our camper families and will and educational activities. That’s why the send them vital information and policies Tampa YMCA offers summer camp, to about all the extra precautions we are takmake sure kids and teens in the Tampa Bay ing to prevent the spread of COVID-19 at area are advenour camps. We want turous, active and parents to feel as comhealthy this sumfortable as possible mer,” said Tampa with our campMetropolitan Area ing process.” YMCA Senior ComBefore chilmunications Direcdren and staff tor Lalita Llerena. are checked in, “At the YMCA, we their temperaknow that when tures are takkids accomplish YMCA is gearing up for a safe, fun summer with en for the safety and more, make new their upcoming camps. Many COVID-19 safety well-being of others in friends and feel like protocols are in place to ensure campers are safe the camp. Those running while attending camps this summer. they belong, they a temperature of 100.4are developing the skills they need to be plus degrees cannot attend. There will also successful in life.” be staggered curbside check-in. Tampa YMCA is excited to provide a safe, Campers will remain in same low ratio fun day camp program this summer. “YMCA groups throughout the week. There will Summer Camp is led by a team of kind, be “individual and spaced out activities to trustworthy individuals committed to cre- practice safe social distancing where posating a safe place for campers to practice sible when inside and limited sharing of social skills and character values,” Llerena supplies,” Llerena said. “There will be ample said. “Our values-based camp curriculum access to handwashing and hand sanitizwill help campers develop self-reliance, a er stations, especially at check-in, before love for the outdoors, positive attitudes and meals and after restroom use. YMCA staff values that build character and leadership, intentionally teach and encourage good all amidst the fun of swimming, creative hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette and arts, crafts, sports, outdoor nature educa- follow a strict sick child/staff policy.” In tion and field games.” Hillsborough County, all staff and members The YMCA is focused on COVID-19 safety (ages 5 and up) are required to wear a face for its summer camps as well. “Safety proto- covering indoors while not exercising or cols will continue for YMCA Summer Camp participating in youth sports. 2021, based on recommendations from the Visit www.tampaymca.org/letscamp.

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy provides Kids is excited to kick off Summer Camp a secure, nurturing and educational envi- Focus on Fun,” Fernandes said. “Week after ronment for children. Its school is a place week of awesome activities are designed for children to bloom into responsible, con- around a variety of engaging themes. It’s siderate and conall about double the fun, doutributing members ble the smiles and double the of society. “With a memories.” love of children at Each week of camp offers our core, each Kids a different theme and each ‘R’ Kids facility is camp has COVID-19 safety family-owned and protocols in place. “We will operated by local continue to monitor this residents to ensure rapidly evolving situation a solid sense of and follow the recommencommunity,” said dations of the World Health Owner Ben FerOrganization, Public Health nandes. “Kids ‘R’ Departments, CDC, Child Kids ‘R’ Kids offers a variety of weekly Kids Learning Acad- themed summer camps. All COVID-19 Care Licensing, state and losafety protocols and procedures are emies are nationally cal officials,” Fernandes said. in place to ensure campers’ safety this “The safety and well-being of renowned and our summer. academy is proud the children in our care, their to be part of your community. We desire families and our staff are our highest prithe absolute best for the children in our ority and is at the core of our Kids ‘R’ Kids care and, therefore, we provide a safe and mission and policies. We have been the pisecure, state-of-the-art environment with oneers in providing the best in safety feaon-site owners.” tures and procedures, and we will continue COVID-19 safety is a priority with Fer- to lead the way. We are keeping our camp nandes and his staff. “During the pandem- sizes small, masks are required indoors and ic, we went virtual,” Fernandes said. “Now social distancing will be practiced.” we are focusing on our kids having a safe Kids ‘R’ Kids camps will be offered from and fun summer. We know a lot of our kids Tuesday, June 1 through Friday, August had cabin fever over the last few months 6. Spaces are limited for their camps. If and now we want them to get outside and you’d like to learn more about Kids ‘R’ Kids’ enjoy their summer.” camps, visit www.kidsrkids.com/valrico/ Kids ‘R’ Kids started their summer pro- programs/summer-camp or call 657-6200. grams in 2004 and since then it has grown The campus is located at 4321 Lynx Paw to offer a variety of programming. “Kids ‘R’ Trl. in Valrico.


April 2021

FishHawk Fellowship Church Offers Basketball And More Sports lovers take note. FishHawk Fellowship Church is hosting a sports camp this summer, which will include soccer, flag football and basketball. In order to prioritize safety, the camp will be limited to 100 attendees and masks will be mandated during sign-in and checkin, but playtime will not require masks. All camp materials and equipment will be sanitized daily and campers are asked to bring their own snacks. FishHawk Fellowship Church is located at 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia and can be reached at 655-7431. For more information, visit www.fishhawkfc.org/ sports. Soccer Fun With Coach Juan If your athlete is looking for a fun way to improve soccer skills this summer, look no further that the Florida Hawks Futbol Club’s Soccer Fun with Coach Juan camp taking place from Monday to Friday, July 5-9 at the FishHawk Sports Complex. The camp is open to boys and girls born between 2009 and 2014. According to Juan de Brigard, director of coaching, the camp will have a limit of 96 campers and groups no larger than 12 players, with one coach

Valrico Edition

and one helper, temperature check stations and strict policies about not coming to camp with any symptoms or sharing equipment. To learn more, visit www.floridahawksfc.com. Trilogy Dive Center Offers Scuba Certification Camps What better opportunity than a summer camp to learn to scuba dive? Trilogy Dive Center is offering weeklong scuba certification camps at Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center (BSAC) for children 10 and older. The camp includes transportation from BSAC, classroom academics and all equipment during the class. COVID-19 protocols include small class sizes (maximum of 12 students), masks required indoors, handwashing and sanitizer stations, temperature checks on arrival and cleaning and sanitization of all equipment. To learn more, visit www.TrilogyScuba.com or call 425-3500. Ostingers Invites Baseball Players For Four Camp Sessions With a combined 30 years of professional playing and coaching experience, Ostingers Baseball coaches are ready to provide little athletes with safe fun this summer. Four weeklong sessions will take place in June and July for players 7-14 years of

age. There will be a ratio of no more than 5:1 campers to instructors, allowing for more social distancing, instruction and reps during the camp. All campers must wear masks while in instruction groupings, even when social distancing. While outside, players can remove their masks if they are able to socially distance themselves during small group work. There will be hand sanitizing stations and the academy will be disinfected before the day begins and after the day is over each day. When arriving at camp each morning, all campers and instructors will be given a temperature check to make sure there are no issues. To learn more, visit www.OstingBaseball. com or call 737-3000. TechPlayzone Celebrates 16 Years Of STEM Camps After 16 years of bringing successful STEM camps to the Brandon area, TechPlayzone will host camps this year at the newly reopened Center Place. Camps will begin in July and will run from 9 a.m.-12 Noon for rising second through fifth grade students. Afternoon sessions with a virtual option will also be available. COVID-19 protocols include temperature checks, regular sanitization, masks and small group sizes (four to five campers per group all week).

Page 31

To learn more, visit www.techplayzone. com or call 444-2267. BSAC Highlights Music For Annual Camp Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center (BSAC) is getting ready to welcome back children grades K5 through sixth for Camp High 5 this summer. BSAC is doing something special with the camp this year by highlighting music and incorporating musical components throughout the event; the grand theme for the summer is called Peace, Love and High 5. Additionally, the staff at BSAC are taking extra preventative measures this summer to ensure the safety of participants and families during the pandemic. Hand sanitizing stations will be provided throughout the property and masks are mandatory upon entry. Both participants and staff will also undergo a temperature check at the start of each day at the camp. For more information about Camp High 5 and the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center, visit mybsac.org. Kids ‘R’ Kids Offers Summer Camp And More Kids ‘R’ Kids started their summer programs in 2004 and since then it has grown to offer a variety of programming.


Page 32

Each week of camp offers a different theme and each camp has COVID-19 safety protocols in place. The organization is continuing to monitor recommendations of the World Health Organization, Public Health Departments, CDC, Child Care Licensing, state and local officials and is keeping camp sizes small, masks are required indoors and social distancing will be practiced. Kids ‘R’ Kids camps will be offered from Tuesday to Friday, June 1 through August 6. Spaces are limited for its camps. For more Performing Arts Camp To Be Held At Music Showcase The Florida Academy of the Performing Arts (FAOPA) at Music Showcase will offer many camp options, including full and halfday camps for musical theater with full performances at the end and costumes, props and set designs. Some of the musicals that will be performed are Honk Jr., Singing in the Rain Jr., Alice in Wonderland Jr., Newsies Jr., Little Mermaid, Musical Revue - Disney on Broadway, Broadway for the Decades and The Addams Family. To keep everyone safe, many protocols are being implemented, including masks, limited camp sizes and temperature checks. Students will be able to bring their own food and beverages (labeled with their name). For further details, visit www.FAOPA.org

www.krkvalrico.com

Valrico Edition

or call 490-2787. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. YMCA Has Camps For All Following a very successful summer in 2020, where the YMCA safely served more than 12,000 campers across Hillsborough and Eastern Pasco Counties, the Tampa YMCA is excited to provide a safe, fun day camp program this summer. With locations throughout the area offering activities from fishing to arts and crafts and much more, the YMCA has something to offer children ages 6 and older with most interests. Before children and staff are checked in, their temperatures are taken for the safety and well-being of others in the camp. Those running a temperature of 100.4-plus degrees cannot attend. There will also be staggered curbside check-in. Lower ratio camp groups spread throughout the whole facility. Campers will remain in their same groups throughout the week. To learn more about the YMCA Summer Camps or to register, visit www.tampaymca. org/letscamp. Morning Glory Preschool Offers Weekly Field Trips & More From arts and crafts to friendship parties and academic summer fun, Morning Glory Preschool offers summer fun

for your elementary school-aged child. Safety measures include masks at all times apart from dining, handwashing, temperature checks and complete daily sanitization of the building. Children at the camp will enjoy music, sports and games, outdoor water play and pizza parties. The preschool is located at 6001 Christy Ln., off Bloomingdale Ave. near U.S. 301. To learn more call 628-0541 or visit www. MorningGloryPreschool.com. Camp Osprey Features Safe Adventures An all-inclusive overnight adventure camp, with day camper options, Camp Osprey is opening again this summer with a safe way to keep your kids, ages 7-15, entertained and happy. The camp, which offers activities such as horseback riding, paintball, high ropes, canoeing, archery, fishing and more, was open last year and is following CDC safety guidelines. Safety measures include temperature checks, handwashing, sanitization, staff serving meals and water bottles getting washed and bleached daily. The camp is located at 18050 U.S. 301 in Wimauma and can be reached at 941-

www.krkcirca.com

Volume 18, Issue 4

928-6860. For more information, visit www. camposprey.com.

Dance, Music And Theater At The Straz With Patel Conservatory

If your camper is interested in the performing arts, check out the weekly camps offered through the Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center. The group offers camps and classes for all ages and skill levels with dance, music and theater options. Masks will be mandatory at the camp and the group will practice social distancing. Regular handwashing is encouraged throughout the day and a hand sanitizer is provided upon entry into the conservatory and located in every classroom. There will be daily temperature checks and a health screening questionnaire required to be complete by all campers and staff, and camp start times are staggered, as is camper drop-off. The Straz Center has received a seal of approval from Tampa General Hospital’s consulting service, TGH Prevention Response Outreach (TPRO), for campus-wide reopening protocols. To learn more, visit www.patelconservato-


April 2021

For ages 8 - 99

Valrico Edition

Page 33

Weekly Themed Horse Back Riding Camps Hands On Experience & Education

Come learn about: RIDING • GROOMING ry.org or call 222-1040. Monday - Friday Camps 9 A.M. to 2 P.M.

With Friday Educational For safe, summer fun and learning, check Field Trips! out The Learning Experience in FishHawk. The Learning Experience Is Now Enrolling For Summer Fun

ers are outside only. The camp, which is open to ages 8 to 99, is located only 10 minutes from FishHawk at 4325 E. Keysville Rd. in Lithia. Visit TLCSfarms.com.

A Child’s Haven Now enrolling for the summer, The Learning Offers Fun And Experience is following state regulations Safe Summer for camp size and social distancing based Programs on age groups. All staff members are reWith kitchen-prequired to wear masks and parents must pared meals, weekly also wear them when dropping off and themes and a varipicking up their children. Masks are op- ety of activities, A tional for children 3 and older. Child’s Haven in ValTwo snacks and one lunch are provided rico has a full-time camp for children in and handwashing stations and sanitizers kindergarten through fifth grade. are available. The Florida Gold Seal School has a deDaily Sanitation protocols are enforced, tailed COVID-19 protocol that includes including weekly electrostatic spraying. temperature checks twice a day, handThere are also daily temperature checks washing for anyone entering the for both children and staff. building and mask expectations for The camp is located at 16232 Bayberry children 5 and older and all teach(Deposimore t required to reserveers your spotand .) parents. The camp building Glen Dr. in Lithia. Call 681-5544 for information. is also completely sanitized every day. A Child’s HaT.L.C.’s Gypsy ven is located at 1520 Haven Offers Brentwood Hills Blvd. Hands-On Fun in Valrico and can be Do you have reached at 684-1622. a horse lover at For more information, home? If so, check visit www.AChildsHaout T.L.C.’s Gypsy venSchool.com. Haven’s summer

May 31st - August 2nd We are just ten minutes east of FishHawk!

4325 Keysvil e Rd., Lithia Call Tammi at 813.842.4236 or email TLCS2867@aol.com VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT:

TLCSFARMS.COM

camps. Running weekly from late May until early August, the camp offers small groups the opportunity to learn about horses in an outdoor, socially distanced setting. Facilities are cleaned regularly and groups are no larger than 10. Masks are not required because camp-

Impact Taekwondo Center Offers Learning And Fun

Students can learn important life skills while having fun and staying safe this summer at Impact Taekwondo Center. Located in Riverview on Boyette Rd.,

the center is offering a camp that will teach self-defense, Taekwondo skills, field trips and the opportunity to make new friends. Masks will be worn in classrooms and where a six foot physical distance can not be maintained. There will be sanitizer in each classroom and hands will be washed or sanitized after each activity and before lunch and snacks. There will also be temperature checks at drop off and after lunch. Call 952-8053 or visit www.impacttkdriverview.com. Dancing For Donations Teaches All Abilities Are you looking for a summer experience like no other? Dancing for Donations offers classes and activities that are all-inclusive, serving kids of all abilities. Children with special needs are not separated from their peers, but instead accommodated in any way they may need (noise-canceling headphones, social stories, buddy, assistance with class/camps activities). It also welcomes therapists to join in. In addition to accommodating students where they are at, the classes teach all children to be accepting of one another and embrace differences. The hope is to help grow confidence, friendships, accep-

tance and understanding through dance and other inclusive activities. To learn more, visit dancing4donations.org or call 601-3009. Sports And More At The MAC Gym The MAC Gym in Brandon is offering basketball, volleyball and soccer camps in June and July. The camps are open for 7 to 14-year-olds, varying by camp. The camps run from 9 a.m.-12 Noon, with breaks for snack and water available. The MAC Gym has worked hard to stay COVID-free and has made precautions to keep its members safe. Again this year, its camps will be modified to help implement physical distancing as much as possible. In addition, temperatures will be checked daily.

To learn more or to get the registration form, visit https://themacgym.org/ summer-sports-camps/. The MAC Gym is located at 216 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon and can be reached at 315-3280.


Page 34

Valrico Edition

CEDARKIRK CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF FAITH BUILDING & FUN

By Taylor Wells

Founded in the summer 12th grade, families of 1971, Cedarkirk, a local and adults with intelyear-round Presbyterian lectual and developcamp and conference cenmental disabilities. The ter, is celebrating its 50th programs have a varianniversary. It is a place ety of activities, which apart where individuals and can include Bible study, groups can experience spiriworshiping together, tual growth and renewal as leadership training, well as faith-building fun, kayaking, campfires, worship and exciting activarts and crafts, field ities in 170 acres of woodgames, swimming, arlands, wetlands and uplands. chery and more. “We see our mission as A father and daughter get geared up for Shick said that, as a a trip down the zip line. giving people a place where former camper of Cethey can step out of the busyness and stress darkirk, “I learned my faith at church, but I and the routines of their everyday life and learned to live it at Cedarkirk, and so I think, spend some time in the woods building com- for me, one of the most special things [about munity and drawing close to God,” said Mat- Cedarkirk] is finding out how to put into thew Shick, executive director of Cedarkirk. practice what it is that we believe.” According to its website, “Our facilities He also thinks the camp is special because, are used for retreats, meetings, conferences, as a camper, he lived alongside others from leadership training, camping, outdoor ex- an entirely different socioeconomic bracket, periences and more. We serve a variety of letting him understand the differences in church-related groups, family reunions, pub- their lives, but also find many commonalities lic and private schools, community service and connect with them. agencies and nonprofit organizations.” For the future, Cedarkirk is campaigning Cedarkirk is open, but only for small to raise $4 million for a new office wing, groups, and it is requiring social distancing new residential building and new dining hall, and masks when in groups, among other which will have more space and better acsafety procedures. Cedarkirk could not offer cessibility. summer camp in 2020, but it is glad to welCedarkirk is located at 1920 Streetman come guests back this year, though at 50 Dr. in Lithia on the Alafia River. Call 685percent capacity. 4224 or visit https://cedarkirk.org/, www. Cedarkirk has several camp programs for facebook.com/cedarkirk/ or www.instadifferent groups, including those in first to gram.com/cedarkirk/.

Volume 18, Issue 4

THE BLOOMINGDALE YOUTH SPORTS ASSOCIATION CHARTERS A BAMBINO BUDDY-BALL LEAGUE By Lily Belcher

The Bloomingdale 5 to 20-year-olds to parYouth Sports Assoticipate in short, noncomciation is more than petitive games to encourjust a home to travel age physical activity and baseball and softball friendships among teamteams, it is an orgamates. Games last four nization that proinnings or 90 minutes vides athletes with (whichever comes first) the opportunity to and Bambino Buddy-Ball foster their love of emphasizes the relaxed sports in a safe and feel of the games by proencouraging environhibiting scorekeeping and ment. One of the procompetition between grams offered by the managers. Through the Bambino Buddy-Ball volunteer assists Bloomingdale Youth relaxed and friendly atathlete during his at-bat. Sports Association is Bambino Buddy-Ball. mosphere of the games, athletes and budBambino Buddy-Ball was founded in dies experience constructive and sports2000 to “encompass players who are ei- manlike friendships to “develop confidence ther physically and/or mentally challenged and positive self-esteem.” and yearn to play the game of softball and In many divisions, players are assigned baseball.” a buddy—a volunteer (usually a family The program is part of the Babe Ruth member or high school student) to assist League, which is affiliated with the base- the players with fielding, batting and basball and softball leagues of the Blooming- erunning during the games. Parents of the dale Youth Sports Association. The Babe athletes can indicate whether their child Ruth League celebrates its 70th anniver- will need a buddy and the extent to which sary this year and is one of the premier the buddy will have to assist their athlete baseball and softball leagues for children on the field. High school volunteers receive worldwide. service hours by assisting players and the “Babe was a man who loved children and team throughout the season, which conbaseball,” Claire Ruth, the second wife of sists of weekly games. baseball legend Babe Ruth, said. “He could For more information on Bambino Budreceive no greater tribute than to have a dy-Ball or the Bloomingdale Youth Sports youth baseball program named after him.” Association, visit bysafl.com or email bysaThe Bambino Buddy-Ball division allows florida@gmail.com.

Summer Camp 2021 5 Weeks of Camp Center Place Brandon 619 Vonderburg Dr, Suite B Brandon, FL 33511

9am - 12noon

Rising 2nd-5th Grade Campers

3pm - 5pm Virtual Camp

Virbela and Minecraft

$150.00 per week Mon-Fri Starting: July 5th July 12th July 19th July 26th Aug 2nd

License# CHC433643


April 2021

Valrico Edition

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY RELEASES ‘MOBILE SWIM’ PROGRAM SCHEDULE FOR SPRING & SUMMER 2021

Staff Report

In support of youth drowning prevention efforts, made possible by a grant from the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County and the leadership of the YMCA, Brandon Sports and Aquatic (BSAC) is pooling its own resources together to help give this year’s ‘Mobile Swim’ program another gentle push out and into the local communities it serves in Brandon and beyond. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, BSAC has been working to turn the tide against loss of life in the water since its inception back in 1963. Here in the present day, CEO Chuck Burgess remains just as strong of an advocate as ever, saying that everyone on his team feels simply “blessed to be a part of it.” “We couldn’t ask for a better lead agent than the YMCA. Together with the Children’s Board, they make sure that every partner involved—including all of us at BSAC—meet the expectations of the funding,” he explained. “We’re very excited to focus on our part in the youth drowning component with regard to overall lessons made possible through Mobile Swim, which is one area where we can excel at through our own swim school.” Burgess said that while BSAC has

earned international recognition for Olympians and Olympic medalists, the first and foremost priority is to “make sure that no child ever drowns again.” “Of course, it all starts with teaching kids how to swim safely and confidently. The other component with the Mobile Swim and Head Start is the education we provide for parents and caretakers responsible for watching over them in and around water.” Over time, BSAC’s water safety programs for children in Head Start have provided free swimming lessons for more than 2,000 students. Yet, according to Burgess, BSAC is “more than just a pool”; it’s an expansive, 12.5-acre facility serving the greater athletic goals of more than 15,000 people and their families. For details about BSAC, visit mybsac. org. To find a Mobile Swim location near you, with a complete listing of dates and times for upcoming sessions, log on to www.mybsac.org/programs/aquatics/ mobileswim/. All participants must be between the ages of 3-14 and be residents of the neighborhood where the swim classes are being held. Registration forms by local property managers must also be completed in advance.

Page 35

AEROSPACE CENTER RETURNS WITH SUN ‘N FUN 2021 & MORE Like most attractions in the Tampa Bay area, the Aerospace Center for Excellence (ACE) was forced to pivot their operations and programming due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic. “Last year brought our country, and indeed the entire world, a historic onslaught of trials and tribulations, but here at the Aerospace Center for Excellence (ACE), the staff is pressing forward,” said ACE’s Carol Cali. “Our team has shown remarkable resolve, meeting each challenge with positive energy and a winning attitude. The required and responsible shuttering of our beloved SUN ‘n FUN Expo Campus was a bitter pill to swallow, but this team has persevered in the face of that adversity.” “Currently, ACE’s staff is gearing up to host its popular STEMtastics and Destination Aviation Summer Camps,” Cali said. “During the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo, ACE will be offering SUN ‘n FUN attendees a mini STEMfusion laboratory experience, providing demos of its 3D printers, wind tunnels and offering the kiddos some cool take-home STEM activities. During the week of SUN ‘n FUN, parents can register their children for ACE’s summer camp programs as part of a special STEMfusion promotion of 50 percent off camper registrations if you register your child at

By Libby Hopkins

the STEMfusion tent.” The 47th annual SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo is scheduled from Tuesday to Sunday, April 13-18. “ACE and SUN ‘n FUN continue to follow all CDC, State of Florida and City of Lakeland COVID-19 requirements and guidelines to ensure its guests’ safety while visiting its SUN ‘n FUN Expo Campus,” Cali said. Coming in the fall of 2021 is Project SkyLab. ACE’s leadership is boldly expanding both educational programming and facility space dedicated to STEM learning. “In 2017, ACE’s board of directors drew a picture on a napkin of what they envisioned a 21st century science, technology, engineering and math center would look like on its SUN ‘n Fun Expo Campus. They called it SkyLab,” Cali said. “SkyLab, a 22,000 sq. ft. expansion that will increase the Florida Air Museum footprint to 60,000 sq. ft. and feature a STEM Innovation Center. SkyLab will be a gathering hub of emerging technologies built on a solid STEM foundation. The expansion includes five additional classrooms to accommodate daily, multiple school field trips. To learn more about ACE, visit www.flysnf.org. ACE is located at 4175 Medulla Rd. in Lakeland.


Page 36

Valrico Edition

Volume 18, Issue 4

ARTISTS RETURN HOME TO CENTER PLACE

By Libby Hopkins

Former Center Place artists Greg Manley, Judy Johnson, Ron Grote, Meletha Everett and Doreen Donovan, haven’t taught classes at Center Place for more than a year or two. They are all thrilled that they can again teach art at Center Place. Classes resumed on April 5 this year.

When the new and former artists of Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association came together for a meeting on March 12 of this year to discuss new spring programming at the center, there was one statement that was said over and over again: “I feel like I’ve come home.” Many of the former artists, such as Greg Manley, Doreen Donovan, Judy Johnson, Ron Grote and Meletha Everett, haven’t taught classes at Center Place for more than a year or two. “I’m just happy to be back at Center Place,” Manley said. “It’s been a part of me for so long and I’m thrilled to be back because our community needs a place to do art. Especially with what everyone has been through with the pandemic.”

Manley will be offering three adult painting classes on Monday. They are Contemporary Acrylic Painting, Mixed Media 2-Dimensional Art and an Art Therapy class. Donovan is thrilled to be teaching her Pixie Painters and Jump Start to Art children’s classes at Center Place on Tuesday afternoons. “I am so excited to be back and to see the kids taking art classes again at Center Place,” Donovan said. “I’m also thrilled that the Brandon League of Fine Arts can call Center Place their home again. I know the league is excited about

REGISTER NOW! Ages K5

having their programming back at the center as well.” Johnson and Everett are two of the original art instructors from when Center Place first opened. “I was one of the first few teachers here at Center Place,” Everett said. “I have seen the center go through many transformations and I’m happy that it will continue to be a part of the community.” Everett will again be teaching her adult Watercolors class on Thursday mornings from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Johnson will be teaching her adult Oil Painting class on Wednesday mornings from 9:30 a.m. to 12 Noon. “I’m

just happy to be teaching again,” Johnson said. “I can’t wait to see my former students, and hopefully some new ones too.” Grote is looking forward to returning to teaching his Graphite Drawing and Colored Pencil Drawing classes for teens and adults on Tuesdays. “I’m happy that the center will still be a part of the community,” Grote said. “I’m also happy to be doing art again at Center Place.” All of the classes offered at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association cost $45 for four sessions. If you are interested in taking any of the art classes mentioned, please call Center Place at 685-8888 to register for a class.

SUMMER CAMP AT

T.L.C.’S GYPSY HAVEN!

through

NOW REGISTERING Limited Space (10 spots weekly) Call TODAY!

5th Grade

For ages 8 - 99 Weekly Themed Horse Back Riding Camps Hands On Experience & Education

Themed weekly camps. You pick which camps to attend. weekly field trip for K5 - 5th grade

$128

Weekly Fee for K5 - 5th Grade

Includes ALL Field Trips & Activity Fees

Healthy Lunch and Snacks Fun Academic Summer Studies Character Building Awesome Friendships Arcade Recreation Room Tons of Fun Activities

A Child’s Haven

1520 Brentwood Hills Blvd, Valrico S of Hwy 60, N or Lumsden, off Mt. Carmel • CHC 404

www.AChildsHavenSchool.com

Come learn about: RIDING • GROOMING Monday - Friday Camps 9 A.M. to 2 P.M.

With Friday Educational Field Trips!

May 31st - August 2nd We are just ten minutes east of FishHawk! 4325 Keysville Rd., Lithia Call Tammi at 813.842.4236 or email TLCS2867@aol.com (Deposit required to reserve your spot.)

VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT:

TLCSFARMS.COM


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.