December 2010 by Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

Roy Paz, local police oﬃcer and speed skating coach, with his daughters Anna (left) and Samantha (right).

As a father and coach, I trust St. Joseph's Children's Hospital

for the best emergency care. When my daughters suffered serious injuries while speed skating, I made sure they were both treated at the Steinbrenner Emergency/Trauma Center at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital. The nurses and doctors were confident and reassuring, putting my family at ease. Thanks to them, both girls will be skating circles around me for years to come. For that, I’m very grateful.

Steinbrenner Emergency/Trauma Center for Children

St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital. Saving children’s lives.

3001 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Blvd. Tampa, Florida 33607 • Phone: 813-443-2043

StJosephsChildrens.com

The Holidays Shine Bright On Very Special Nights!

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Bring your family and join some of your Disney Character friends on select nights through December 19 at Magic Kingdom Park. It’s the celebration of the season, featuring a special parade, festive fireworks, a castle covered in thousands of lights—and even “snow” falling on Main Street, U.S.A. !

©Disney HOL-10-16072

There’s no better place to feel the holiday spirit than at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.

Visit disneyworld.com/christmasparty or call 407-W-DISNEY to get your tickets now! Entertainment offerings subject to change without notice. Admission to this event requires a separately priced ticket. Tickets valid during specific event hours only and subject to availability.

contents

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DECEMBER 2010 • 4TH yEaR • 8TH IssuE

features 12 Weathering Cold, Flu SeaSon Let your child’s behavior be your guide

16 CaSh in the CloSet Forget having a garage sale and try consignment 22 Meaning oF the SeaSon It’s not more, more, more 26 SteM-ulating MindS Math, science education in spotlight 30 FaShion Wonderland Winter looks that dazzle 40 PaMPer YourSelF Restore your beauty, energy and confidence 44 SaFetY FirSt Make a list, check it twice

30 every month 6 letter FroM the editor 19 eduCation

20 What’S haPPening 42 health and WellneSS 48 north hillSborough neWS 50 South hillSborough neWS 52 north PinellaS neWS 54 South PinellaS neWS 56 PaSCo neWS 58 around toWn 60 Calendar oF eventS

66 holidaY eventS

On the cover: Cover Kid Winner Quinn Fry and Cover Kid Contestant Charleston LeRoux Hermann at Postcard Inn on St. Pete Beach Photograph by: Nicole Geller, www.nicolegellerphotography.com

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Wait, there’s a store for healthcare?

The Florida Blue Center is opening the door to a whole new way to plan for your health—face to face. Come by anytime to compare coverage options and get your healthcare questions answered in person. Keep an eye out for weekly wellness seminars and monthly health fairs that offer helpful tips for living well. Now open at 201 N. West Shore Blvd., Mon.–Sat., 10am–8pm. FloridaBlue.com Stop by today for your free personal health assessment. The Florida Blue Center is brought to you by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. 69477-0510

.............................................................................................................................................................................................. Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

December 2010

TBParenting.com

letter

Angela L. Ardolino Founder and Editorial Director David E. Estevez Editor at Large Kimberley Brown Smith Associate Editor Contributing Writers Amy Gall Lindsay Perez Mark Heller Lauren Hoyt-Williams Peter Gorski, MD, MPA Heather Tempesta Chris Kuhn Calendar and Neighborhood Stories Luke Beck Graphic Artist Susan Margolis Marketing Director Todd A. Varde Director of IT Cathy Munch Sales Director Rachel Sarkis Account Executive Krayl Funch Director, Home & Garden and Events

...............................

FROM THE EDITOR

Season’s greetings. i hope you and your family are enjoying this holiday season and making plans to enjoy one another’s company. it’s that time of year where the pace can be hectic but it’s so worth it to see all of the smiling faces of family and friends. Last month we celebrated being grateful and essentially the art of being on the receiving end of goodwill. This month parents will be giving gifts and hearing the sweet thank yous. it’s also the time of year where the art of giving can be shared with children. your kids may be expecting something to be delivered by a jolly guy in a red suit and even those who don’t believe in the white-bearded fellow still believe in the presents.

Kit Stewart of Kit ’s Well me and Germain Dressed, Linda Zipkin, e Gibbs of AW A Spa

it’s a great opportunity to encourage or introduce the giving spirit. After all, as parents we know the amazing feeling we receive when we see the joy on our kids’ faces after frantically unwrapping a present. i encourage you to share that experience with your kids. Perhaps allow them to shop for a less fortunate child this holiday season. Take them to a shelter to serve a warm meal. Or maybe have them go through their closets and toys to choose items for Goodwill, the Salvation Army or a thrift store. Watching your kids awaken to the art of giving will be a gift for yourself and an amazing experience for you as well. Speaking of amazing experiences, Florida’s mild winters are something to enjoy. While we do get to make use of some long sleeves, sweaters and coats, there’s still the opportunity to wear shorts for those of us with more tolerance for change. This issue we share some of that variety in our holiday fashion spread. Beautiful Tampa Bay area kids and mothers show off the best in winter fashion with some items for play as well. Hopefully you’ve been tuning in to Parents in Action on ABC Action news every Thursday at noon and Saturday mornings. On my new website, ParentingWithAngela.com, i’ll be sharing helpful hints and answer everyday questions from stellar parents like you. it’s my gift to you this season and i look forward to hearing from you there soon. Happy holidays to you and yours!

Jeanine McLeod Photography Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine P.O. Box 82255 Tampa, Florida 33682 Telephone: 813-949-4400 Fax: 813-315-6688 info@tbparenting.com calendar@tbparenting.com ads@tbparenting.com Letters to the Editor: editor@tbparenting.com

www.TBParenting.com BECOME A FAn AT FACEBOOK.COM/ TAMPABAyPAREnTinGMAGAzinE

We love to hear from you. Don’t forget to become a fan on Facebook and get daily updates, enter contests, share pictures and chat with other families. You can check us out at TBParenting.com, too, or follow us on Twitter.

.............................................................................................................. Tampa Bay Parenting is published twelve times per year by Lucy Loo inc. it is distributed free of charge at area supermarkets, community centers, libraries, doctor’s offices and other businesses with products and services for families. no portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission. TBPM is not responsible for statements made by advertisers or writers. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of information we print, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from omissions or errors. All photography and letters sent to TBPM will be treated unconditionally, assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. For information on where to find TBPM or how to become a distributor, call 813-949-4400 or email info@tbparenting.com. Copyright 2007-2010 by Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine. All rights reserved. Comments and suggestions are always welcome.

FLORIDA’S NEWEST FAMILY THEME PARK IS COMING. AND IT’S LIKE NOTHING YOU’VE SEEN BEFORE. LEGOLAND® Florida is opening Fall 2011 featuring more than 50 rides, shows and attractions. From kids getting their own driver’s licenses to LEGO® themed coasters and even a live-action water stunt show, Florida’s newest theme park could also be Florida’s most unique theme park. That’s because LEGOLAND is built for family fun.

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December 2010

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weathering cold, flu season

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By DR. CHaRlEs a. WElBORn

lET yOuR CHIlD’s BEHavIOR BE yOuR guIDE

ith the cooler weather upon us, the threat of colds, coughs and flu is here, too. The good news is that for the vast majority of children, these are self-limited illnesses that run their course in a week or so – and only need a lot of TLC.

thermometer gives you a reading of 105, it may not be a true reading. The best way to measure a temperature is to take it either orally or rectally. A second misconception concerns the nasal discharge your child may have. in a typical cold, the nasal discharge begins as clear, then becomes cloudy, and may even turn yellow or green. This is normal and does not mean that the child has a bacterial infection that needs antibiotics.

So what do you do when your child starts to have congestion and a runny nose? First, it should be emphasized that colds are caused by viruses and there are more than 200 strains that can infect your child. That’s why children may have six to 10 colds a year, even more if they are in day care.

if you feel the symptoms of nasal discharge and coughing are significantly affecting your child, especially during sleep at night, call your pediatrician and ask for advice on what over the counter preparations might provide some temporary relief until the cold passes.

Second, because colds are caused by viruses, there is no cure. Antibiotics don’t help at all. Thankfully, colds are benign. While they can cause some discomfort for your child and you, they aren’t serious. A typical cold lasts seven to 10 days. Symptoms include congestion, sneezing, nasal discharge, sore throat, cough, fever, headache, fatigue and body aches. There are plenty of misconceptions about colds that make parents worry and think their children have a more serious condition. First, many people think that a fever is bad. Actually, fever is our bodies’ response to infection. it is helpful and good. Some of our immune responses to infection are enhanced by a higher body temperature, so fever, by design, is beneficial. And since our body temperature can range from 97 to 100.2 on a normal day, pediatricians only consider a body temperature above 100.5 to be a fever. Also, our body temperature is highest from 5-6 pm. So, if you check your child’s temperature from the time they come home from day care or school to around suppertime; expect it to be higher than the normal 98.6.

So what do you do for your child when she has a cold? Making your child comfortable is most important. if she has a fever and looks miserable, then give a fever reducer. Providing lots of fluids to drink also is very important, especially if your child has a fever. you can gauge how well your child is drinking by how often they urinate. If it’s significantly less than usual, then have them drink more fluids. For infants and small children, clear their nose of mucous with saline drop s. Older children can use saline nasal rinses. This will help them feel better and significantly reduce the coughing,

Remember that fever itself is not a disease. it is simply a symptom that your child has an illness. So when do you want to treat a child’s fever? The point is not to treat a number, but rather to give a fever reducer based on your child’s behavior. if she has a fever of 102, but is fairly active, she doesn’t need any medication. However, if she obviously looks miserable and is just lying around, then giving a fever reducer to make her feel better would be appropriate. One quick note about thermometers; those that measure temperature from the ear canal or forehead are not particularly accurate, especially at higher temperatures. So if your ear

which is often due to the dripping of mucous down the back of the throat. When do you need to call your pediatrician or make an appointment to be seen? The easy answer is if you feel your child seems to be getting worse or is developing different symptom. if your child’s fever is consistently high, around 104, if the cough is so disruptive that your child is unable to sleep; if your child complains of significant ear pain, if your child refuses to swallow and is drooling; or if your child is lethargic and not able to ‘recover’ after a long nap, these can be symptoms of the flu, pneumonia, an ear infection or another serious illness. However, keep in mind that most children will recover fully and be up and running in no time. For most people, the flu is no more than a bad cold, but with a headache, muscle aches, higher

continued on the next page

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BE OUR GUEST It’s a brand new day at the YMCA! We’re here to nurture the potential of kids, to help you improve your health, and to provide opportunities to give back to your community. Join the Y and get involved!

This December, you can try the Y for free on Fridays. Come try a group exercise

class, shoot some hoops, lift weights with a buddy, take a Zumba class, or swim a couple laps in our heated pools. Plus, you’ll get to meet our friendly staff. Visit ymcatampabay.org for more info.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY Bob Gilbertson Central City Family YMCA (Tampa Heights) 813-229-9622 Bob Sierra Family YMCA (Carrollwood) 813-962-3220 Brandon Family YMCA (Seffner) 813-685-5402 Campo Family YMCA (Valrico) 813-684-1371 Downtown YMCA (Tampa) 813-229-1305 FishHawk Ranch YMCA Express 813-651-4200 Interbay-Glover Family YMCA (S. Tampa) 813-839-0210 New Tampa Family YMCA 813-866-9622 Northwest Hillsborough YMCA (Town ‘N’ Country) 813-249-8510 Plant City Family YMCA 813-757-6677 WestPark Village YMCA (Westchase) 813-792-7838

PASCO COUNTY NPR SunTrust Branch YMCA (New Port Richey) 727-844-0332 James P. Gills Family Branch YMCA (Trinity) 727-375-9622 East Pasco Family YMCA (Zephryhills) 813-780-9622 PINELLAS COUNTY Clearwater Branch YMCA 727-461-9622 High Point Branch YMCA (Clearwater) 727-507-9622 Greater Ridgecrest Branch YMCA (Largo) 727-559-0500 Bardmoor Branch YMCA (Largo) 727-394-9622 Greater Palm Harbor Branch YMCA 727-787-9622 North Pinellas Branch YMCA (Palm Harbor) 727-772-9622

Jim & Heather Gills YMCA (St. Pete) 727-328-9622 Harbordale YMCA (St. Pete) 727-821-9348 Childs Park YMCA (St. Pete) 727-209-9622 CITRUS COUNTY Citrus County Branch YMCA (Inverness) 352-586-4390 HERNANDO COUNTY Hernando County Branch YMCA (Spring Hill) 352-688-9622

www.ymcatampabay.org

December 2010

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fever and intestinal symptoms, such as vomiting and diarrhea. Symptoms usually improve within four to seven days, though for some, the cough may last two to three weeks. Treatment is usually geared toward improving the symptoms. For fevers, acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be used and saline nose-drops may be given for nasal congestion.

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Ask your physician for advice regarding the use of an antiviral agent and whether it is appropriate for your child. in general, the Centers for Disease Control only recommends using antiviral agents for those who are hospitalized or who are at significant risk of developing complications from the flu, such as those with significant underlying heart or lung illnesses. Thus, most healthy children do not need to be treated. If you or your child is sick with a flulike illness, the CDC recommends you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone, except to receive medical care or for other necessities. your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine. While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them. Of course, there are simple yet effective ways to help weather flu season. Careful hand washing is of paramount importance. Wash hands often with soap and water, and if soap and water are not accessible, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, as germs spread this way. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and throw the tissue in the trash. Sneeze into your elbow to avoid spreading the germs. Try to avoid close contact with sick people. Get vaccinated. Many people ask: what is the right time to get the flu shot? The answer is now. According to CDC, every person 6 months and older is recommended for annual influenza vaccination. Seasonal flu vaccines have a very good safety track record. Be sure to consult with your primary care provider for further information. Charles A. Welborn, MD, MPH, FAAP, FACEP, is medical director for After Hours Pediatrics Urgent Care. Visit www.afterhourspediatrics.com for locations and hours.

Get your entry card at the front desk

Guess who’s coming to town.

Santa’s reindeer are ﬂying in for Wild Wonderland at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo. You can see the reindeer along with more than a million twinkling lights, Zoo-wide glimmering holiday displays, and of course get photos with the big guy himself, Santa. Everyone can enjoy holiday treats, games and free Zoo rides all evening long. It’s a jolly good time at a jolly good price.

Select nights in December For tickets, more information and to track the reindeer’s ﬂight visit LowryParkZoo.com Event and/or attractions may close due to inclement weather or other circumstances.

Presented By

December 2010

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cash in the closet

FORgET HavIng a gaRagE salE anD TRy COnsIgnMEnT

.....................................

By HEaTHER TEMpEsTa

e’ve all done it. We’ve flipped through our closets only to find clothes we don’t love as much as we did in the dressing room. To make matters worse, there’s a tag dangling from some items. What about the clothes that are given to you at your baby shower? inevitably, someone will give a beautiful winter outfit to a December baby. There’s nothing wrong with that except that it’s a size 6 months and that puts your new baby in that outfit in the middle of June. What do you do with them? you could put them aside for a garage sale. But, you’re probably only going to get $1 for it−if you’re lucky. Fortunately, there is a better solution. Consignment shops are becoming more popular and with good reason. They are full of great treasures at fabulous prices. it’s going to take some research on your part to find locations and understand the process. But, once you get it all figured out, you’ll wonder how you didn’t find out about them sooner. Here’s what you need to know before you get started:

Will the shop accept what you have?

Some locations will take everything from baby items to women’s clothing, including maternity. Some shops cater just to children or women. You may have to find a location that will take adult clothing and another for children’s items.

Spanish French

Will you need an appointment to bring in items?

Also ask if there is a maximum number of pieces allowed. This is not uncommon and it is done to allow the shop to keep up with their stock. Unlike a retail store, they are not ordering inventory. A Saturday afternoon following a few failed garage sales can set a shop back a few days.

What are the shop’s rules?

Most stores have specific guidelines. Many only accept certain name brands of clothing. Many do not accept clothes that are stained or faded. Hangers may be required. Toys may require working batteries. if a store is selective, it will help ensure you have the same opportunity for quality items if you make purchases.

How is pricing determined?

The store owner typically knows what price an item will bring. in some instances, you may be able to set a minimum for large ticket items such as a double stroller or crib. Typically, the clothing prices are determined by an employee of the store, based on several factors.

What is the policy regarding rejected items?

Some stores may go through your items and return unacceptable ones then. Others may take your clothing and give you a call when they are done. Some stores may give you a timeline in which you have to pick up the unacceptable items. if you fail to pick up on time, the store reserves the right to donate the items to a local charity. continued on the next page

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December 2010

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When is payout?

Many stores have a specific date or time frame in which you must pick up your money. Also, ask if the shop offers store credit instead of a cash payout. Sometimes, the percentage paid is higher for store credit.

How long will the store attempt to sell your items?

The store may keep something on the rack for 90 days. They may reduce the price at 30 or 45 days. Determine how the store notifies you that there are items ready to be picked up. Some stores may have a working relationship with a local charity. Make sure you know the procedure. Otherwise, if you leave the items too long, the store may reserve the right to donate. you should be asked to sign a contract which should explain the details of the agreement. This is to protect you and the store. Make sure to keep a copy for your records. you will need this in the event you need to dispute any policies or procedures. Babies and toddlers grow so quickly. Consignment shops offer an opportunity to buy that $40 outfit that they will only wear once for $7. Most consignment shops will only accept items that look new. Sometimes, an item can be slightly worn but still too cute to pass up. in this instance, the store may accept it and price accordingly.

Consignment stores provide a great service. you should know that offering this service can be tedious. There are thousands of items that they have to keep up with and few are the same. you’re going to need patience. Try to remember that when you decided to bring the items in, you no longer wanted them. Don’t get upset if the store sold your firstborn’s baby blanket for $3. Stores can’t put a price on sentimental value.

Remember the effort it requires to plan and run a garage sale. The consignment shop that you choose will handle everything and then pay you! That’s simply wonderful.

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December 2010

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What’s Happening

........................................................................

Santa Fest 2010

Tampa’s 28th annual family holiday tradition returns to downtown Tampa with holiday fun and festivities for the whole family, including public outdoor ice skating in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. Tampa’s Santa Fest & Holiday Parade is set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 4. Santa Fest 2010 is sure to get you in the holiday spirit as Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and adjacent Kiley Gardens is transformed into a winter wonderland. The young and the young at heart can visit with Santa and enjoy the sounds of the season as Tampa’s Riverwalk comes alive. The parade will begin at Pierce and Madison and travel west on Madison to Ashley Street. The parade will continue north on Ashley Street and end at Cass and Ashley.

Budding Authors Wanted

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida’s Tampa Blue center has partnered with the Books by Kids Foundation to offer middle school students in Hillsborough and Pinellas counties an opportunity to become published authors. Participants in the Florida Blue Young Authors Contest will craft their version of Tampa Bay from A to Z, an original story about the Tampa Bay area incorporating historical figures, landmarks and characteristics beginning with each letter of the alphabet. The winning story will be illustrated by patients from St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital and All Children’s Hospital and designed, published and distributed by Books by Kids. The book will be released in 2011 and sold throughout the Tampa Bay area. Net proceeds will benefit the children’s hospitals and school of the winning submission. Additionally, the teacher or adult who facilitates the winning entry will receive an iPad and a getaway to the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island. An A to Z starter list will be provided to each applicant. A single student may enter the contest or students may collaborate. Groups of up to 25 are eligible. The prize package includes a party with special guests; Tampa Bay Lightning tickets and prize pack; A VIP tour of One Buccaneer Place; tickets to a Tampa Bay Rays home game; admission for two to The Florida Aquarium, Lowry Park Zoo, MOSI, Tampa Museum of Art and the Tampa Bay History Center and more. Contest applications are available at www.floridablue.com/Tampa. The submission deadline is Dec. 17. The winning entry will be announced in January.

Giving Tree Benefits Cancer Center

Through December, participating Panera Bread bakery-cafes will host their Giving Tree Campaign benefiting the Children’s Cancer Center. Panera Bread will give a free gingerbread man cookie to everyone who brings in an unwrapped present for a child’s wish off the giving tree. The trees will be displayed in 25 Tampa Bay area Panera Bread bakery-cafes and will be donated to children who are battling childhood cancer and chronic blood disorders. Visit www.panera-tampa.com or www.childrenscancercenter.org to learn more.

Singing for a Cause

10th Concession will be releasing its new CD and raising money to stop bullying at an EP event on Dec. 19. The event will raise money for Ellen Degeneres’ campaign to spread awareness about the negative effects of bullying and promote being kind. The group also hopes to get on Degeneres’ daytime talk show and sign with her record label Eleven Eleven. Doors open at 5 p.m. at the Ritz in Ybor with the show starting at 7 p.m. Admissions is $10 at the door.

Taking on Bullying

With bullying on the national radar, the release of the third picture book in local author Brenda Darnley Martin’s Tampa Bay-based series promoting positive life choices is well-timed. The Treasure-Hunt Three and Judge Mia’s Decree written for elementary-age children emphasizes the inappropriateness of bullying behavior and the importance of getting help in a bullying situation. Like the first two books in the series, Martin’s latest in the series relates the adventures and life lessons of Freddie, Hector and Tish, three young fish living in Old Tampa Bay. The book tells the story of how Freddie and Tish seek help from Officer Muldoon, an octopus, when they witness Hector being bullied by a school of sharks. Muldoon quickly takes charge and the sharks are brought up before the bench of Judge Mia Mendez, who sets the rules straight. The book is available on Amazon among other retailers.

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Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

December 2010

TBParenting.com

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December 2010

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meaning of the season ...........................

It’s not more, more, more

By MaRk HEllER

he holiday season is upon us. Thanksgiving is in the rearview mirror, the first night of Hanukkah is right around the corner and Christmas will be here in no time. It’s hard to live in 21st century America and not feel the push for consumption that comes at us in so many forms during this time of year. Our children feel it, too. And if the only messages they get about the holidays are the ones they get from swimming in the sometimes treacherous waters of our consumer culture, we run the risk of them growing up having missed the point. We have work to do. How do we help them to make better sense of the frenzy of this season? How can we be sure that they have an appropriate take-away from the season, one that is not measured purely in terms of their take? Like many others, I suggest that a key step in this process is that we resolve to teach our children not just that we give gifts during this season, but also why we give gifts. Christmas giving stems from many places: from commemorating God’s gift of Jesus to the world, bringing redemption and everlasting life, from the gifts the Magi brought to the infant Jesus in gratitude for God’s gift and from St. Nicholas’ generosity to children, among other sources.

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813-854-4010 Hanukkah is a holiday that celebrates perseverance in the face of challenge, faith in God and God’s power and freedom to worship as we see fit. The gift-giving tradition comes from the giving of gelt or coins that commemorates one of the freedoms won by the Maccabees in their against-all-odds victory over the Syrians (the freedom to coin their own money). In modern times, much of the gift-giving associated with Hanukkah has come from the coincidence that the holiday falls during the same season as Christmas. In our more secular world, we have come to view holiday gift giving as an occasion to show love and appreciation for family. Whether your family’s reason for giving is religious or secular, it should be clear to your children that there is a reason. This is a challenging task, as our children’s deep relationship with the media and consumer culture has contributed to their seasonal sense of entitlement about receiving gifts. I believe young people are capable of comprehending the differences between excessive consumerism and appropriate gift giving if they have careful and intelligent guidance from the adults in their lives. If we help our children take the emphasis off of gift-receiving and instead put it on thoughtful, caring gift-giving, we will be doing much to foster both maturity and social responsibility. continued on the next page

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I believe children are hungry to find purpose and meaning in all that they do. They are receptive to discussing the big questions. Especially at this time of year, they can be taught to feel the power of giving. They can be inspired by our guidance. Why not try giving to our community and our world by giving time and/or gifts to local shelters or charitable groups? You could go international through Alternative Gifts International, altgifts. org, Heifer International, heifer.org, or support Rainforest or Coral Reef adoption through the Nature Conservancy, nature.org. There are plenty of gift opportunities out there that can balance your child’s holidays in ways that will bring enhanced meaning to their experience. This was brought home to me through an experience I had at my school. We have frequently welcomed clergy from different religions as guest speakers on holidays and traditions. A few years ago, a minister who was speaking to our high school students about the religious meaning of Christmas began to decry the commercialization and consumerism that had, in his view, obscured the true meaning of the holiday. Our students were very receptive to his articulate and sensitive approach to the issue and one of them asked the minister if his family gave each other gifts at Christmas. When he told them that they didn’t, that they gave to others less fortunate instead, our students were impressed and inspired. They sought more opportunities to give to those less fortunate and wound up building a strong connection to Metropolitan Ministries through a couple of clubs. The ways we speak to children matter. Instead of asking, “What did you get for Christmas?” try asking, “What did you give?” Instead of asking, “What do you want?” ask, “What would you like to show with your gift?”

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Ultimately, the holidays are what you make of them. You can make your family’s traditions more important than the gifts. Follow or create them by spending time together trimming the tree, hanging stockings, baking cookies, especially using passed-down recipes, lighting the candles or attending the midnight mass or service. Strive to do these things year after year, for the patterns you follow together will create much more powerful and lasting memories than this year’s trendy toy ever could. Happy holidays. Mark Heller is head of school at Academy at the Lakes, a PreK3 – 12th grade independent school in the North Tampa area. Visit academyatthelakes.org for more information.

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STEM-ulating minds

MaTH, sCIEnCE EDuCaTIOn In spOTlIgHT

..................................

By susan B. BaRnEs

n the past few months, STEM, science, technology, engineering and math, has taken the spotlight not only in the classrooms, but in the media and even the White House.

company’s future depends on their ability to harness the creativity and dynamism and insight of a new generation. “And that leadership tomorrow depends on how we educate our students today, especially in science, technology, engineering in September, President Obama announced and math.” I would an like it to also haveObama a santa in there the launch of Change the Equation, effort President added, “What somehow. i’ve also said Pic- Quality care in a nurturing, safe environment tures with Santa and play in the snow, sled rides = A part of the community for over 35 years to dramatically improve STEM education. for a long time is that our success will $24.95 not Change the Equation 5x7, is a(2)nonprofit attained by government alone. it depends 3x5 and 4bewallets 1/2 Day or Full Day programs available organization dedicated to mobilizing the on teachers and parents and students and Dec 11 from 12 -2 call now for appt. Mon-Friday 7:30am-6:00pm business community to improve the quality the broader community. it depends on us Now accepting children ages 1-5 of STEM education in the U.S. restoring an insistence on excellence in our • Our program is proud to have earned NAEYC Accreditationclassrooms and from our children. the mark of quality for early childhood education programs. According to the White House, the U.S. is “And that’s why last year i challenged • A Florida Gold Seal School • VPK Provider falling behind its foreign competitors in scientists and business leaders to think STEM subjects. According to one study, of creative ways to engage young people • Degreed teachers, developmentally appropriate activities American 15 year olds ranked 21st in science in math and science. And now they are exceeding all Florida Sunshine State standards. and 25th in math, compared with other answering the call.” industrialized countries. One of the organizations answering the call 1685 S. Belcher Road, Clearwater, FL 33764 During his announcement, President is the Girl Scouts. STEM is important to Lic. # C720573 Obama said, “We’re here for a simple reason: girls and their leadership development. Everybody in this room understands that our nation’s success depends on strengthening According to the national Science America’s role as the world’s engine of Foundation, women constitute 46 percent discovery and innovation. And all the CEOs of the U.S. labor force, who are here today understand that their but only 22 percent of scientists and

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December 2010

TBParenting.com

engineers. Although young girls are precocious learners, by fifth grade many girls shy away from math and science. Academic stereotypes and lack of encouragement for girls have caused fewer girls to take science or math classes than boys and to pursue higher education/careers in these fields.

Challenging the Mind... Inspiring the Spirit

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A website, www.gswcf.org/stem/, is available for teachers and parents to visit to find ideas on how to promote STEM to their students and children. On the site, teachers and parents will find sections specifically for them, with references to STEM activities that can be done in the classroom or at home, and links to supplemental websites.

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Mom Amy is wearing a Custo Barcelona “Melby Madame” dress from Paris isabella. Debra is wearing a Donna Karan rouched-jersey from nordstroms. Marissa’s cute silver sequins ensemble from Justice for Girls is available on shopjustice.com. Mom Jennifer’s v-neck chiffon top knit dress from Kit’s Well Dressed. Jaden is wearing Vines khaki pants from Little Peeps and a plaid button down shirt from GAP. Eli is wearing a Royal Kidz red overall and Bailey Boys long-sleeve shirt from Little Peeps. Christina is wearing a mock neck studded black dress from Paris isabella. Hailey is wearing a red Rose Cage dress from Little Peeps.

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Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

December 2010

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The holiday season is here and we here at Tampa Bay Parenting want you to look and feel your best as you celebrate with loved ones. While we Floridians are lucky that we don’t have to deal with frightful winter weat her, we still can enjoy some of the season’s best looks. From cozy jammies for baby to party dresses for mom and daughter, these styles spread joy and smiles.

Madeline is wearing a Kensington printed ruffle dress also from Little Peeps. Mom Robin is wearing a side ruffle lace tank and cream knee-length skirt from Kit’s Well Dressed. Maxwell is wearing a Bailey Boys nutcracker corduroy pant set from Little Peeps. Elizabeth and Jolie are wearing Peace, Love & Candycane shirts and leggings from couturethatrox.com. Muria is wearing an Eva Franco green top from Kit’s Well Dressed and floral skirt from Love That. Melodie is wearing Hale Bob lounge brown suede leggings with a white dress and Kensie jean jacket from Love That. Mom Angela is wearing a leopard sequin dress from Kit’s Well Dressed.

December 2010

TBParenting.com

Kamille is wearing the Butterfly Wishes long-sleeve tee and skirt combo. Madeline is wearing Butterfly Bling. Hailey’s shirt goes perfectly with her tie-die skirt. All are available at Kooky Kidz. Marissa is picture perfect in a navy blue Vicki dress from Pink Palm. Joshua is ready for a close-up in his flannel shirt and Vines khaki pants from Little Peeps. Kamille may make you walk the plank, while Madeline reads The Present by Bob Gill and Joshua plays with Automoblox, all available at Seedlings. Monsternauts hold Hailey’s attention and Marissa reads zoo Breath by Graham Salisbury. These cool kids met up in the lobby of the Renaissance Vinoy Resort.

Jaden is wearing Vines khaki pants from Little Peeps and a plaid button down shirt from the GAP. He’s playing with Krypnotics Skateboard set available at Toys R Us. Maxwell is wearing red corduroy pants from Little Peeps and a dinosaur hoodie available on zoodies. com. He is practicing a round of golf on My Mini Golf available on myminigolf.us.

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Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

December 2010

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Eli is wearing Saraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Printed Footed Snowman PJs and Maxwell is rocking his Vive La Fete Snowman Flannel PJs, both available at Little Peeps. They are pictured with a Giant Pumpkin Doll made of 100% cotton and Ellema the Elephant, plush animal pillow with blanket inside both available at Seedlings.

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Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

December 2010

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Jolie is wearing a Haven Girl top and white ruffle leggings. Giselle is wearing a Twigs and Twirls red dress. Both outfits are available at Kooky Kidz. Kamille is wearing a peace sign bejewelled t-shirt and skirt combo available on couturethatrox.com. Stylish mom Amy is wearing a Lilly Pulitzer dress from Pink Palm and Robin is showcasing Trina Turk from Pink Palm.

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Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

December 2010

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December 2010

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Mom Robin is wearing a Lilly Pulitzer Sabeline Coat Rosette and brown pants from Pink Palm in front of the Chihuly Collection presented by Morean Arts Center.

you’ve pampered your baby, now pamper yourself

..........................

By BETH gaDDIs

REsTORE yOuR BEauTy, EnERgy anD COnFIDEnCE

hen was the last time you did something just for yourself? Still thinking? it’s amazing how once we have kids, it feels like a luxury to take the time for a massage, a pedicure or even a bubble bath. There are days when you just pop your hair into a ponytail and decide to forego makeup. you wear your baggy clothes and wish that just for a minute you could have your pre-pregnancy shape. The days of wearing a bikini seem long, long ago. if you feel like your inner glow has dimmed, don’t give up hope. There are simple ways to enhance your natural beauty and have you feeling – and looking – fabulous again. “Some women are overwhelmed when they have a new baby,” says Dr. Frank Toscano, co-owner of Red Bamboo Medi Spa in Clearwater, named Best Aesthetic Enhancements in 2010 by Tampa Bay Metro Magazine. “They’re not eating well, they’re not sleeping well and they feel badly about themselves.” Take a quick look in the mirror. Do you look tired? Does your skin look rosy or blotchy? Many women have uneven pigmentation after pregnancy. Do you have laugh lines from all the times your

kids made you smile and worry lines from all the times they tried to turn your hair gray? Red Bamboo’s board certified doctors can eliminate those dark under-eye circles, smooth out the wrinkles, remove unwanted hair, enhance the natural beauty of your eyes and create a fuller smile. But the greatest change is the amount of confidence women have when they leave. Michelle Susan knows that firsthand. The Palm Harbor mother of two ate healthy and exercised often, but just couldn’t lose that one area of fat. “it was a banana roll, that area that’s right below your butt and on top of your legs,” Susan laughed. “i would work out six days a week. i’m not overweight, but it wasn’t going away. i was in the best shape of my life, but working out would only take me so far.” With a full-time job and an 8-year-old and a 2-year-old at home, Susan knew she didn’t want a treatment with a long recovery period. She set up an appointment for Smartlipo. The painless and minimally-invasive procedure uses laser light to permanently remove fat and tighten the skin. it

costs less than traditional liposuction and is done while the patient is awake. Best of all, the procedure can be done on a Friday and by Saturday you can be back to lifting your toddler and back to work on Monday. She could even begin working out again. “i was back on the StairMaster in three days, but i did it slowly,” Susan says. “At the two-week mark, i went back to my exercise classes.” Looking better also helped her feel better, Susan said. Dr. Toscano hears that a lot. “It helps them get their self-confidence back,” he says. “The fat doesn’t come back once we’ve removed it. now they can dress the way they like, and feel great about how they look.” Sometimes it’s hard for new moms to have enough energy to think about making an appointment for a facial, let alone for an aesthetics consultation with a doctor. Many women suffer

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December 2010

TBParenting.com

from headaches, insomnia, fatigue, sweats, weight gain, even depression. you can blame the hormones. “One of the things that happen after pregnancy is your immune system changes,” Dr. Toscano says. “Some of these changes we can detect and correct and that helps with the insomnia and other symptoms.” it’s similar to the hormone changes women go through with menopause and perimenopause. “As we age, we produce lower levels of specific hormones than we did when we were younger. in women, that means different levels of estrogen and progesterone,” Dr. Toscano says.

THE

The doctors at Red Bamboo use a blood test to identify which hormones are deficient and create an individualized Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy program. Bioidentical hormones are natural and match the body’s hormones molecule by molecule, so your body can metabolize them as it was designed to do, minimizing side effects. The benefits are huge. In addition to helping you feel better, having a proper hormone balance can lead to better concentration, a stronger libido and lots more energy. Best of all, that feeling of being overwhelmed by all the changes going on in your body can be replaced by the knowledge that you’re healthy and able to give your kids the care and attention they need. There are a lot of books about pregnancy and about raising children, but there aren’t as many guides about what you can do for yourself to restore your beauty, energy and confidence after you have kids. Michelle Susan, the mother in Palm Harbor, may have the best advice of all. “First, try everything you can do,” she said. “you know your own body and when you can’t do it through diet or through exercise, don’t waste years.” Frank Toscano, M.D., and Laszlo Teleszky, M.D., are the founders of the Red Bamboo Medi Spa at 2516 N. McMullen Booth Road in Clearwater and at Red Bamboo Too at 2511 W. Swann Avenue in South Tampa. Visit www. redbamboomedispa.com for more information.

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...................... By aMy gall

MakE a lIsT, CHECk IT TWICE

he holidays are upon us, but along with the merriment and wonder of the season is the potential for accidents. While decking the halls, baking treats and shopping for gifts, be sure to include safety in your holiday traditions. Some simple precautions during the hustle and bustle can help ensure your family has a fun and safe holiday.

Trees / Decorations

Trimming the tree and stringing lights can add to the festive mood of the season. But if not used properly, holiday decorations can pose a serious danger. The national Fire Protection Association suggests these tips for selecting and caring for your Christmas tree this holiday season. • When purchasing an artificial tree, look for the label “Fire Resistant.” • When purchasing a live tree, check for freshness. A fresh tree is green with needles that are hard to pull from branches and won’t break when bent between your fingers. • Cut a few inches off the trunk of your tree to expose the fresh wood for better water absorption. • Place tree away from fireplaces and radiators and be sure to keep the stand filled with water. • Use only noncombustible or flame-resistant materials to trim a tree. • Avoid decorations that are sharp or breakable, keep trimmings with small removable parts out of reach and avoid trimmings that resemble candy or food, which may tempt a small child to eat them. • Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.

Lights

• Use no more than three standard-size sets of lights per extension cord. Make sure all the bulbs work and that there are no frayed wires, broken sockets or loose connections. • Before using lights outdoors, check labels to be sure they have been certified for outdoor use. • To hold lights in place outdoors, string them through hooks or insulated staples, not nails or tacks. • Always turn off holiday lights before leaving home or going to bed.

Toys

•

tester or the cardboard tube from a roll of toilet paper to identify choking hazards,” said Smith. “Small children should not play with anything that can fit into one of these cylinders.” Don’t buy toys with small magnetic pieces for any child younger than 6 or younger than 10 if they have younger siblings who could easily access the pieces. Avoid toys painted with lead paint. Exposure to lead can result in lead poisoning, causing serious damage to a child’s brain, kidneys and nervous system. Avoid electrical toys with heating elements (batteries, electrical plugs) for children younger than 8. These toys are a potential burn hazard. Avoid toys with strings, straps or cords longer than 7 inches, which can wrap around a child’s neck and accidentally strangle him or her. Avoid toy darts and other projectiles. Propelled toys can cause cuts or serious eye injuries. Immediately discard plastic wrappings on toys before they become dangerous play things.

Did you know that more than half of the 3 billion toys and games sold in the United States each year are bought during the holiday season? While the majority of toys are safe, about 217,000 children are treated in hospital emergency departments nationwide each year for toy-related injuries; nearly half of these children are younger than 5.

•

“Toys have changed over the years and the assortment can be astounding, particularly to those who haven’t shopped for kids in a while,” said St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital advocate Keely Smith. “Child safety, however, never goes out of style. it is something parents and family members should always keep in mind when selecting gifts for youngsters.”

Bicycles, skates, scooters and skateboards are popular gifts for the holidays, but if children lack the proper protective gear or skills, injury and death can occur.

Smith notes that appropriate selection and proper use of toys, combined with parental supervision, can greatly reduce the incidence and severity of toyrelated injuries. • Choose toys suitable to the child’s age, interest and skill level. Remember, age labels are safety, not development ratings. • Avoid toys with small removable parts, which could pose a choking hazard to children younger than 3. “Use a small parts

• •

• Include a helmet as part of a gift, which have been shown to reduce the risk of head injury by as much as 85 percent and the risk of brain injury as much as 88 percent. • Buy stickers or bike reflectors and use them on the front, sides and back of the bike to increase the child’s visibility to drivers. • Buy a bike horn or a bell as a stocking stuffer. This tool is essential for warning motorists and pedestrians of a bicyclist’s approach. • Don’t forget to buy elbow and knee pads as well as wrist guards for skates and skateboards. Kids sometimes are reluctant to wear protective gear, insisting that they are good riders or complain that none of their friends wear them. But Smith urges you to resist that temptation. “Requiring your children to wear a helmet every time, everywhere they go, is the best thing you can do to protect them,” she notes.

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Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

December 2010

TBParenting.com

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Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

December 2010

TBParenting.com

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north hillsborough

.................................................................................................................. CaRROllWOOD, CITRus paRk, luTz, nEW TaMpa, ODEssa, TEMplE TERRaCE, WEsTCHasE

Freedom High Vying for National Fitness Grant Freedom High School has advanced to the final round of the “Henkel Helps Get Kids Fit” competition with a first place prize of a $25,000 grant to bring fitness projects to schools. Henkel, the company behind brands such as Dial, Purex and Right Guard, launched the campaign to address the health and fitness crisis among American youth. Freedom High School, 17410 Commerce Park Blvd., Tampa, is a member of the HealthCorps network of schools founded by Dr. Mehmet Oz, heart surgeon and host of the nationally syndicated talk show, The Dr. Oz Show, as part of a proactive health movement that includes in-school educational and mentoring. Freedom High was selected as one of 10 finalists from 2,000 applicants across the country that submitted essays on how their school would use the fitness grant money. The Henkel Helps Get Kids Fit campaign began this summer when Henkel urged communities and schools to nominate their local schools for the fitness grant. Henkel and the American Council on Exercise named 10 finalists who received a free Flip video camera to document their ideas for how best to use the grand prize. if awarded the grant, Freedom High plans to use the money to update physical education equipment and lay a rubber track to help prevent injuries and enhance athletic performance. The student-directed videos have been posted online for viewing, with the public choosing the winner through online voting, which runs through Dec. 12. Voters can cast one vote per e-mail address per day. Freedom High is counting on Bay area votes of support as the only Florida school in the final round. Voters also get to enter the Henkel Helps Get Kids Fit Sweepstakes for a chance to win $5,000 in fitness cash. Visit www.henkelhelps.com to vote or view Freedom High’s video.

America’s Ballet Studio Dancers Earn Kudos

America’s Ballet School has won the prestigious “Outstanding School Award” three years in a row at the world’s largest student ballet competition.

This year, eight classical ballet students from Tampa have been invited to attend some of the most esteemed professional ballet companies and universities around the world because of their skill and precision. All of these dancers share one thing; they were trained at America’s Ballet School, a dance studio nestled in a plaza at 15365 Amberly Drive and led by artistic director and founder Paula nunez.

nunez is a former prima ballerina and internationally-acclaimed dancer, having danced worldwide for more than 30 years. She now produces world-class ballet performances right here in Tampa. “i believe that classical ballet is the fundamental root of all types of dance. it requires great discipline, patience and determination.” nunez says. “Auditions are an exciting time because new talent surfaces and students often discover their love for the art.” This month, students from across the state will participate in an America’s Ballet School production of The nutcracker with performances Dec. 9-12 at the Pasco Center for the Arts and at USF. America’s Ballet School has earned several prestigious awards including the “Outstanding School Award” which the dance studio has won three years in a row at the annual youth American Grand Prix, the world’s largest student ballet competition. This spring, five students placed within the top three in their division and eight students within the top 12. Visit www.americasballet.com or call 813-558-0800 to learn more.

dates:

Dec. 3, 8:30 a.m. • IDS Open House Attend an informative admissions open house at Independent Day School-Corbett Campus, 12015 Orange Grove Drive, Tampa. Learn about the school and meet the headmaster as she shares information about the curriculum, expectations and learning environment. Includes campus tour. Free. www. idsyes.com Dec. 3-5, 10-12, various times • Honk! Watch a musical adaptation of the Hans Christian Anderson classic The Ugly Duckling, one of Masque Theatre’s holiday youth productions, at Backstage Café, 8858 N. 56th St., Temple Terrace. Performances are 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. Cost is $14 for adults, $12 for students/seniors and $10 for children. www.masquetheatre.net Dec. 11, 8 a.m. Annual Patriot Run/Walk Carrollwood Day School PTO and the CDS Patriots Booster Club host their second annual run/walk at the school’s 1515 W. Bearss Ave. campus. Day offers 5k run and walk, one-mile fun run, kids’ dash, obstacle course and crafts. Proceeds benefit CDS. Cost is $25, adults; $20, students. www. carrollwooddayschool.org Dec. 11, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. • Christ Our Redeemer Lutheran School Christmas Festival Bring the whole family for a Christmas festival at 304 Druid Hills Road, Temple Terrace. Day includes family-friendly games, local food, live entertainment, a kids craft station, moonwalks, snow and a visit from Santa. Free entry; $1 tickets for activities. www. corls.org Dec. 14, 6:30 p.m. • Lutz Branch Library Presents an Entourage Holiday Check out a holiday musical event by Steinbrenner High’s performing ensemble Entourage at the Lutz Community Center, 101 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road. Group features 14 singers and a four-piece band and presents favorite songs of the holiday season. Free. 813-273-3652. Dec. 21-24, 28-31 & Jan. 2, various times Gym Fun Camp at Lefleur’s Keep the kids active during winter break with gymnastics camp for children 4 and older at 10205 Anderson Road in Tampa. $24 per half day, 9 a.m.noon or 12:30-3:30 p.m.; $43 per full day, 9 a.m.3:30 p.m. Before care and after care available for additional charge. www.lafleurstampa.com

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Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

December 2010

TBParenting.com

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south hillsborough

.................................................................................................................. apOllO BEaCH, BRanDOn, lITHIa, RIvERvIEW, RuskIn, sOuTH TaMpa, TaMpa, valRICO, FIsHHaWk

Patel Conservatory Students Showcase Talents Students from the Patel Conservatory will perform in showcase events on Dec. 18 in the TECO Theater at the downtown Straz Center for the Performing Arts, 1010 W.C. Macinnes Place, downtown Tampa. As part of the nonprofit Straz Center, the Patel Conservatory offers classes for children and adults of all experience levels in dance, music and theater. Three performances are scheduled. At noon, the youth Student Showcase will feature the talents of young students in musical theater classes, jazz dance, hip-hop dance and an introductory music class. At 3:30 p.m., students in grades six through 12 hit the stage to display The Singing Stone Gallery in Ybor City their artistic skills in hip-hop dance, voice, jazz dance and carries art work by more than 30 local and musical theater. At 7:30 p.m., the day concludes with the regional award-winning artists. final group for an Adult Student Showcase to feature students enrolled in music, acting, musical theater and dance classes, such as tap, flamenco, ballet and hip-hop. “if you’re interested in taking a class, it’s a great idea to watch a showcase to see what you might learn as a student and to help you choose,” says Wendy Leigh, vice president of education at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets are $8 and may be purchased at www.strazcenter.org, in person at box office or by phone at 813-229-7827.

Singing Stone Gallery Plans Colorful December For the Singing Stone Gallery, December means supporting local artists through fun, creative events for patrons and artists to come together. Owners nataly and Dan Balk are preparing for the holiday season at their ybor City casita at 1903 n. 19th St. “We offer customers a chance to engage and interact with our artists and craftspeople,” nataly says. “These events create a rare platform for collectors and enthusiasts to discuss art methods and sometimes see the artist at work.” The gallery holds a monthly Meet the Artist event and this month Latin pop painter John Gascot is appearing from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 4. Gascot combines visual, literal, lyrical and musical themes in his vibrant art with the female form a dominant characteristic of his work and a strong commitment to the preservation of Latin culture. Admission and parking are free. Singing Stone Gallery also will host the interactive Day with Terry Andrews, a copper/glass sculpture artist and folk singer-musician, on Dec. 11. “Terry brings a lifetime of love of music and art. it will be a day of art, glass and copper sculptures, music, stories and laughter,” nataly says. This gallery also will feature the silver jewelry of co-owner Dan Balk, with one piece being given away as part of a fundraiser during the Terry Andrews event. Drawing tickets are $3 for a chance to win a sterling silver pendant with a pearl valued at $225. Proceeds will benefit local artists and the gallery’s efforts to connect art lovers and artists. Visit www.singingstoneonline.com or call 813-247-2787 to learn more.

dates: Dec. 2-4, various times Fiddler on the Roof Watch young talent from Blake High School’s Musical Theatre Program perform the touching musical classic at the school’s Don Thompson Theatre, 170 North Blvd. in Tampa. Shows are 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday. Cost is $12 for adults; $7 for students; and $10 per person for groups of 10 or more. 813-601-7707. Dec. 4, 4:30 p.m. • Drum Circle Event Bring the kids and join Music Together for a free drum circle demonstration at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 501 S. Dale Mabry, South Tampa. RSVP required. E-mail allisongs@hotmail.com and include number in party. www.allisongsfortots. com Dec. 10, 7 p.m. Patel Conservatory Jazz Jam Hear members of the Patel Conservatory Jazz Ensemble as well as guest performers in a special concert from big band swing to contemporary jazz funk at TECO Theater in the Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Tampa. Tickets are $8 and available at www.strazcenter.org, by calling 813229-7827 or at the box office. Dec 11, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Music Showcase Christmas Festival Pack up the family for holiday fun at this Christmas festival at 402 Oakfield Drive, Brandon. Saturday festivities include crafts, vendors, a big in-store sale, live music, a bounce house, face painting, food, prizes, entertainment and Santa Claus. Free. www.musicshowcaseonline.com Dec. 11-12, various times The Nutcracker by Brandon Ballet Support the Brandon Ballet as they present four performances of the classic holiday ballet at Spoto High School, 8538 Eagle Palm Drive, Riverview. Shows are 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2 and 5:30 p.m. Sunday. Adults, $25; seniors, $20; and students/children, $15. www.brandonballet.org Dec. 17, 6-7 p.m. Holiday 2-Year-Old Party Your toddler can celebrate the season with other little ones at Ms. Lisa’s Dance Studio, 3805 W. San Miguel St., Tampa. Party includes making gifts for grandma, dance and play, storytime and cookies and milk. Guests can come dressed in their favorite holiday pajamas. $10. 813-253-5472. www. mslisasdancestudio.com

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Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

December 2010

TBParenting.com

December 2010

TBParenting.com

north pinellas

...................................................................................................................... ClEaRWaTER, DunEDIn, EasT lakE, OlDsMaR, palM HaRBOR, saFETy HaRBOR, TaRpOn sRIngs

After Hours Pediatrics Helps Kids Have Sweet Dreams After Hours Pediatrics Urgent Care is collecting donations to benefit the Pajama Program, a national nonprofit that provides new pajamas and books to children in need. The drive runs through Jan. 1. Donations of new pajamas with tags attached and books can be dropped off at any of After Hours Pediatrics’ four Tampa Bay locations from 5-11 p.m. weekdays and 1-11 p.m. weekends and holidays. The Pajama Program delivers donated items to local children in need, many who are waiting to be adopted and living in shelters, group homes or orphanages. “October 1 through March 31 is danger season, when temperatures begin to drop and children living in shelters and group homes will greatly benefit from a new pair of pajamas and new book to comfort them at bedtime,” says Faith Smith, president of the Tampa chapter of the Pajama Program. “Since August 2009, the Tampa chapter has delivered close to 1,500 pairs of new pajamas and couldn’t have done this without the wonderful support of our Tampa Bay community.” Established in 1997, After Hours Pediatrics Urgent Care is a subsidiary of TeamHealth of Knoxville, Tenn., and provides urgent care for children during evenings, weekends and holidays. Visit www.afterhourspediatrics.com to learn more. Visit www.pajamaprogram.org for information on the group.

Shop, Eat, Learn at Dunedin Fine Art Center The Dunedin Fine Art Center is opening its doors Dec. 4 for a day of educational and holiday shopping opportunities, including a pancake breakfast, open house and pottery sale. The Dunedin Firefighters Association will be serving a pancake breakfast from 8:30-11:30 a.m. at the main campus, 1143 Michigan Blvd. Cost The Dunedin Fine Art Center hosts a pottery sale to benefit the is $4 for DFAC members, $5 for Center’s clay art program. nonmembers and $2 for kids younger than 5. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the center will host a free open house, offering a closer look at its studio art curriculum with faculty available to answer questions and demonstrate some of the equipment and materials used in the classes. The center also will be holding a pottery sale with proceeds to benefit the center’s clay art program. “This is an opportunity to showcase our talented faculty and give people a sense of the variety of instruction we offer” says Catherine Bergmann, director of adult education. “you can study at a very high level here in a very relaxed environment.” Call 727-298-3322 or visit the center at www.dfac.org to learn more.

dates:

Dec 1, 6-7 p.m. Morton Plant Holiday Lights Benefit Stop by Morton Plant Hospital at the main entrance parking lot, 300 Pinellas St., Clearwater, to check out the seasonal lights and enjoy hot cocoa and cookies. The event is free but donations benefit hospital’s cancer survivor outreach programs. 727298-6199. Dec. 3, 6-9 p.m. Christmas Wonderland Pack up the family for the city of Oldsmar’s holiday celebration at RE Olds Park, 107 Shore Drive. Winter wonderland will feature a giant snow slope, pony rides, live music and a dance performance, photos with Santa and more. Free parking and admission. www.myoldsmar.com Dec. 4, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. • Holiday Faire Browse work from local artisans at this annual event at Suncoast Waldorf School, 1857 Curlew Road in Palm Harbor. Event features homemade goods, wholesome foods and a variety of crafts. 727-487-4302. Dec. 6-11, various times City of Dunedin Intergenerational Week Take part in an inspiring week of activities for people of all ages to interact and learn from each other. Week includes chair volleyball, giving tree drumming, grandparent/grandchild breakfast and more. Free. Visit www.dunedingov.com for schedule. Dec. 11, 3 & 6 p.m. Holidays in Hollywood Catch a fun holiday production as the Tampa Bay Skating Academy presents its annual holiday ice show at 255 Forest Lakes Blvd. in Oldsmar. Tickets are $5, with ages 3 and younger free. Call 813-8544010 or buy tickets in person at the cademy. www. tbsa.com Dec. 22, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Babysitter’s Training Class Youth ages 11-15 are invited to this class at the North Pinellas Branch YMCA, 4550 Village Center Drive, Palm Harbor. Class covers caring for infants and children, being a good leader, problem-solving, handling emergencies and more. Participants should pack a lunch and snack. $50 fee includes Babysitter’s Handbook and a certificate from the American Red Cross. 727-772-9622.

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Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

December 2010

TBParenting.com

AMAZING THINGS HAPPEN EVERY DAY! We’re Looking For Kids Who Make a Diﬀerence. If you know an amazing kid who has reached out to help others, visit

everychildmakesadiﬀerence.com

and tell us their story. Help us create a star out of a young hero with a big heart.

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comfort gourmet As the weather cools, our cravings for foods loaded with flavor increase. Favorite recipes that require baking and toppings of rich cheese get resurrected from cookbooks stored away during the summer. Fanciful daydreams of beautiful holiday cheese platters for celebratory gatherings start to fill our thoughts. The harvest outfits us with pumpkin, squash, apples, potatoes and zucchini. Not only does the earth naturally bear heartier fare, winter’s cheeses are lush and decadent, too. This Bacon & Egg Risotto is an artistic creation. The recommended cheddar is Hafod (havod) and is available at Bern’s Fine Wines & Spirits retail shop. This nutty, chewy and grassy cheddar hails from the longest established organic farm in Wales where they use Ayrshire cow’s milk. The tangy bite of Hafod contrasts the teeth sticking, creamy risotto while the roasted tomatoes, salty bacon, crispy fried sage and sous-vide egg shock you with memories of breakfast at grandma’s.

bacon & egg risotto

CHEF CHaD JOHnsOn

ingredients 1 cup Arborio rice ¼ cup small diced Spanish onions 3 cups chicken stock 2 tablespoons minced garlic ½ cup small-diced bacon 1 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 cup grape tomatoes 3 thyme sprigs 3 oz grated Hafod cheddar cheese 2 oz heavy cream ¼ cup minced chives 4 large eggs of consistent weight Sous -Vide Eggs If you’re like me and don’t have an immersion circulator an egg over easy will substitute nicely. Just make the eggs your last step instead of your first. Heat water bath with an immersion circulator to recommended degrees C Gently place eggs in shell in bath, cook for 45 minutes Confit Tomatoes Place grape tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil and thyme sprigs in an oven-safe pan Bake at 250 F until tomatoes just begin to explode

For nominations visit:

everychildmakesadiﬀerence.com

sIDEBERn’s

Remove from the oven and allow tomatoes to cool in the oil at room temperature Risotto Render bacon in a saucepan over medium heat Once bacon is rendered and crispy, remove bacon from pan, leaving the rendered fat Add onion and garlic to bacon fat and cook over low heat until soft and translucent Add rice to pan and stir for one minute to thoroughly coat in the bacon fat Begin adding stock in 3oz. increments, constantly stirring until rice is 80% cooked Remove confit tomatoes from their oil and lightly crush over the pan of rice to catch any juice Add cheddar and cream to the risotto; continue cooking and stirring over medium heat Finish the risotto by stirring in the reserved crispy bacon, minced chives and crushed tomatoes

Plating

Place risotto in the bottom of a shallow bowl and form a small well in the center of the rice Gently crack the shell of a sous-vide egg, remove the egg from the shell and place in the center of the rice Garnish the risotto with fried sage leaves and fresh cracked black pepper

Take a midweek break from the whining at home and join us at Tampa Bay Parenting and SideBern’s in South Tampa on December 8th for our version of “Wine-ing Wednesday”. We will feature this Bacon & Egg Risotto with the 2006 Villa Antinori Toscana during our Cocktail Hours, along with other Happy Hour specials from 5-7. SideBerns.com

south pinellas

...................................................................................................................... laRgO, pInEllas paRk, sEMInOlE, sT. pETE BEaCH, sT. pETERsBuRg, TREasuRE IslanD

Gulfcoast Academy, PinkCricket Merge Arts Programs Gulfcoast Academy of Performing Arts inc. and The PinkCricket Center for Arts Education are merging in an effort to strengthen each other and provide programming in all arts areas for the St. Petersburg community. This new venture is the latest in a series of changes the GAPA, formerly known as Soulful Arts Dance Academy inc., has undergone during the past year. now, the PinkCricket, a youth arts center in downtown St. Petersburg that had closed its location in late September due to financial struggles will be integrating its youth arts programs into GAPA’s expanded education offerings. “Gulfcoast Academy of Performing Arts heard about our closure from the article in the St. Pete Times and asked us to meet to discuss a possible partnership,” says Sara Turner, executive director of The PinkCricket. “We discovered we had endured many of the same struggles and really had similar ideas about what we wanted to offer and why. in many ways, it is like we are puzzles pieces that were meant to fit together.” The arts-based after school program, camps, and other youth programming from The PinkCricket will now be offered at GAPA, 290 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St. n., where both organizations are now headquartered. Sara Turner and Jennifer “Cricket” Brendel-Howell, The PinkCricket’s deputy director, will be joining the staff of GAPA to implement and oversee programs. The PinkCricket’s after-school program, Arts in the Afternoon, is projected to open in January. The PinkCricket and GAPA are planning fundraisers and events next year to introduce families, students, and community members to the new merged arts program. “While both organizations are excited about the potential of this new merger, we still have a lot of challenges ahead,” says Turner. “Being able to provide equal access to the arts has been a big priority for both organizations…we need the support of the community, including new (and former) donors, to be able to make all of this happen.” To learn more about The PinkCricket, visit www.thepinkcricket.org or call 727-385-8121. For additional information about Gulfcoast Academy of Performing Arts, visit www.gapaweb.org or call 727-822-2555.

Pinellas Trail Celebrates 20 Years Pinellas County Parks & Recreation will be hosting a celebration to recognize the 20th anniversary of the legendary Pinellas Trail. The free event is at 10 a.m. Dec. 4 in John S. Taylor Park, 1100 Eighth Ave. S.W. in Largo. The Pinellas Trail is a linear park and recreation trail that stretches from St. Petersburg to as far north as Tarpon Springs. Laid out along an abandoned railroad corridor, the trail provides safe green space for walking, jogging, skating and biking. Visit www.pinellascounty.org/park/12_Trail.htm to learn more about the Pinellas Trail and other Pinellas County trails and parks, including trail maps, park features and landmarks.

dates: Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Largo’s Downtown Market Every Thursday, browse Largo’s popular outdoor market at Ulmer Park, 301 West Bay Drive. Features handmade crafts, fresh produce, baked goods and live music. Family-friendly and petfriendly market runs November through April. Free entry and parking. www.largoevents.com Dec. 3-5, 10-12, 17-19, various times Babes in Toyland Take the family to this lavish musical spectacular and cheer on your favorite Mother Goose characters while booing the villains at St. Petersburg Little Theatre, 4025 31st St. S. Shows are 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $24 for adults and $10 for students. Call 727-866-1973 for tickets. www.splt.org Dec. 4, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Santa Holiday Parade Get into the holiday spirit as Santa Claus comes to town – by way of downtown St. Petersburg with a waterfront parade. Watch marching bands and check out an array of decorated floats. 727893-7441. Dec. 4-5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. St. Pete Beach Craft Festival Check out the arts and crafts work of more than 100 vendors at this annual festival along Corey Avenue in St. Pete Beach. Event features crafters and vendors selling a variety of products from jewelry and candles to spa products and pet goods. Free. www.artfestival.com Dec. 11, 6:20-8:15 p.m. Treasure Island Boat Parade Watch festively lighted boats cruise in this Treasure Island tradition that circles the city. Event features clam chowder, hot dogs, dessert, hot apple cider, coffee, live entertainment and an appearance from Santa Claus. Free. www. mytreasureisland.org Dec. 12, 3 p.m. • Pinellas Youth Symphony Holiday Orchestra Concert Show your support for the symphonic strings, Pinellas Youth Philharmonic, Serenade Strings and Pinellas Youth Symphony at this special holiday concert at The Palladium Theater at St. Petersburg College, 253 Fifth Ave. N., downtown St. Pete. Tickets, $8. www.mypalladium.org

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Florida’s Largest All-Chocolate Shopping, Tasting, Educational and Interactive Event! January 15, 16 & 17, 2011

Featuring the Region’s Best Chocolate & Confection Companies

Presented by

The Festival of Chocolate is Complimentary with Purchased Entry into MOSI* Advance Tickets Only Available on www.FestivalofChocolate.com Order Online for Exclusive Bonuses

*MOSI Members receive special discounted rate. Vendor Tastes Between $1 & $4.

Go Green… Go Grey

Help Save the Environment Help Save an Endangered Manatee Today

Adopt-A-Manatee ®!

119215_TampaBayParentingGoGreenHoriz.indd 1 1/18/10 11:34:02 AM ..............................................................................................................................................................................................

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pasco

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DaDE CITy, lanD O’ lakEs, nEW pORT RICHEy, pORT RICHEy, TRInITy, WEslEy CHapEl, zEpHyRHIlls

Prowlers Pee Wee Team Takes Tampa Bay Title The West Pasco Prowlers Junior Pee Wee football team recently won the Foundation for youth Development Greater Tampa Bay Pop Warner Conference Championship. This marks the first time that a West Pasco Prowler team has won this conference championship during the team’s 11 years in the program. The Junior Pee Wee team is comprised of boys ages 8-10 and led by D.J. Brown, The West Pasco Prowlers recently earned its first Greater Tampa Pop Warner Conference championship. head coach and offensive coordinator; John Laspada, assistant coach and assistant offensive coordinator; Keith Quoriz, defensive coordinator; Pat Tillman, defensive line coach; Rick Castricone and Demetrius Bolton, assistant coaches; and Karen Hill, team mom. The team completed its season with one loss and the best record of the conference heading into the playoffs. Following their Bay area conference championship, the Pasco Prowlers continued their post-season against teams from other conferences, including a trip to the East Coast on nov. 13 for a matchup against the Ormond Beach Sandcrabs. Results of the game were not available at press time. Ultimately, the winner of that game would be just two games away from a chance at a national championship game at the Wide World of Sports in Walt Disney World, televised nationally on Christmas Day. The West Pasco Prowlers are part of the Pop Warner Little Scholars national football organization, the only nationally-recognized youth football and cheer program in the U.S. endorsed by the national Football League, the national Players Association and national Cheerleaders Association. To be eligible, young players must provide report cards verifying they have at least a 2.0 GPA. The West Pasco Prowlers organization offers scholarships to kids in need and has sponsored a number of foster children from the Harbinger House. The team’s next registration opportunity is from noon to 2 p.m. Dec. 4 at Rhino Linings, 6615 Graphic Drive in new Port Richey. Visit www.westpascoprowlers.com to learn more.

Morton Plant North Bay Lights Up the Holidays Morton Plant north Bay Hospital’s Caring Partners organization hosts its annual Holiday Lights celebration from 6-7 p.m. Dec. 2 at the new Port Richey facility, 6600 Madison St. The community is invited to join the Morton Plant North team for the official countdown of the lighting of the Christmas tree and to take part in fun holiday activities, including horse-drawn wagon rides, children’s storytime, ornament decoration and more. Guests can enjoy refreshments, live music and balloon hats as well. Visitors also can sponsor a light or wreath for the tree in memory of a loved one with proceeds to benefit the community services and programs at the hospital. Visit www.mpmhealth.com for more information.

dates: Dec. 1 & 5, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Santa Claus Stops at Cloud 9 Studios Smile with Old St. Nick with a prepaid photo session when the holly jolly one visits the studio at 2038 Ashley Oaks Circle, No. 101, Wesley Chapel. Enjoy a cookie, share your wish list with Santa and pick a favorite image. Fifteen minute sessions include two 5x7 and 8 wallets. $75. Call 813-994-4552 to schedule. www.photosoncloud9.com Dec. 2, 7-8:30 a.m. • Annual Peace Breakfast Aid the Sunrise Domestic & Sexual Violence Center by attending this breakfast at the Tampa Bay Golf & Country Club in San Antonio. Hear from keynote speaker Lissette Campos, community affairs director for ABC Action News. Guests must RSVP by calling 352-521-3358. www.sunrisepasco.org Dec. 4, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tampa Bay Women’s Expo Bring along the important ladies in your life for an enlightening day of seminars, exhibits and wellness tips presented by HCA Pinellas County Hospitals and the St. Petersburg Times at Gulfview Square Mall, 9409 U.S. 19, Port Richey. Free. www. tampabaywomensexpo.com Dec. 11, 8 a.m. Lake Jovita 5K Reindoor Run/5K Lace up your sneakers and dress in holiday attire when you race to support the American Cancer Society at Lake Jovita Golf & Country Club, 12900 Lake Jovita Blvd., Dade City. Register by Dec. 6 at www.active.com/running/dade-city-fl/lake-jovita5k-reindeer-runwalk-2010 or at Lake Jovita Fitness Center. $25 per entry. 352-588-2233. Dec. 11, 7 p.m. • The Nutcracker DanzAmerica’s Project Inc. and the Pasco Schools Center for the Arts present an encore production of Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet at 30651 Wells Road, Wesley Chapel. Call 813-794-8772 for tickets. www.cfawesleychapel.com Dec. 18, 10 a.m.-noon Annual Holiday Brunch with Santa 2010 Attend the Junior Service League’s annual holiday brunch hosted by the Rotary Club of Trinity at Timber Greens Country Club, 6333 Timber Greens Blvd, New Port Richey. Guests can get photos taken with Santa, enjoy a pancake breakfast, sing carols, make winter crafts and more. Support Suncoast SPCA’s food drive by donating a bag of cat or dog food. Tickets are $10 for kids older than 1 and $5 for adults. RSVP at 727-243-3578.

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Wiregrass Wednesdays Formulated to enrich one of the most important qualities of any child ... their imagination.

WHEN Every Wednesday at 10am

WHERE The Shops at Wiregrass

WHAT LIVE entertainment for kids, activities, face painting balloons and fun! PRESENTED BY:

Dillards • JCPenney • Macy’s • Over 100 shops and restaurants | Bruce B. Downs and S.R. 56 - Wesley Chapel (813) 994-2242 To join the Wiregrass Ranchers Kids Club, visit www.theshopsatwiregrass.com

Now Enrolling at Join Us For a Fun and Instructional Candy-Making Experience! Lesson Plan: Students receive a tour by one of our candy-makers with fun facts about various candies we sell. Then step up to the counter to learn how we temper our delicious chocolate. Students decorate their own chocolate-dipped treat with sprinkles, M&M’s, and even gummi candies! Each creation is unique and can be enjoyed on-site or taken home. Class Size: We recommend 4 - 15 students per class. Larger groups are always welcome. Pricing: $5.95 / student, includes take-home treat and samples! Bonus: Receive 10% off any purchase of our Chocolates, Candies and Ice Cream. Class Times: Daily 9 am - 7pm. Advance reservations required. Candy College session lasts approximately 45 minutes.

Visit CityStreetSweets.com for more details. 813.251.6764 City Street Sweets • Hyde Park Village 1601 West Snow Circle • Tampa, Florida 33606

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around town

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TO sEE MORE pHOTOs vIsIT FaCEBOOk.COM/TaMpaBaypaREnTIngMagazInE

Fashionistas Fashion Event by Kits Well Dressed benefitting the Children’s Dream Fund as a part of Wine Women and Shoes: Left, Editor at Large David Estevez, Nancy Vaungh of White Book Agency, Founder and Editorial Director Angela Ardolino and Kim Macaluso of Neiman Marcus. Right, Angela Ardolino, Lindsay Alvarez, Veronica Cintron, Kit Stewart, Bobbie Shay Lee, Jessie Pelletier, Sarina Fazan, Mayra Gomez, Nastasia Ardalan, Francine Levine, Alicia Wyatt, Robin Guess and Tricia Burke

Fashionistas Fashion Event by Kits Well Dressed benefitting the Children’s Dream Fund as a part of Wine Women and Shoes: Left, Dick Greco, Tony Dungy, Dr. Benedict Maniscalco, Carl Lindell Jr., Angela Ardolino, Michael Stewart, Ron Stewart, Randy Stewart, Stuart Levine, Dexter Jackson and Jeff Carlson. Center, Front Row: Angela Wells, Colleen Lee, Taryn Hutchison, Christy Stross, Scarlett. Back Row: Kara McClellan, Jenna Cibran, Casandra Hutchison, Kelly Dross, Heather Klingel, and Megan Barnhill-Escamilla

16th Annual Tampa Bay Business for Culture & the Arts Gala: Left, Melissa Register and Tim Garding. Right, Stephanie Schoor of Craftsman House, Christina Campbell and Kerry O’Reilly.

Pink & Blue for Two at Busch Gardens: Left, Amy Scherzer of St. Petersburg Times, Founder and Editorial Director Angela Ardolino, Brooke Palmer of RSBP Events. Right, Sandy McLaughlin of The Florida Aquarium, Craig Kuhl OF, Founder and Editorial Director Angela Ardolino, Brendan McLaughlin of ABC Action News, Beverly Pippen, Patty Masin of Neiman Marcus.

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......................................... pHOTOs By: JOE pHOTO TaMpa

2010 Junior League of Tampa Holiday Gift Market Kick-off Event & Patron Party: A record-setting 10,389 attendees joined us this year for the biggest shopping event of the season! Because of your support, The Junior League of Tampa is able to continue our work enriching our community in the areas of foster care, education and literacy, and basic needs for disadvantaged children. Left, Bridgette Howell, Marlo Cervi, Nicole Hubbard, Krisden Jernigan, Gretchen Dominguez, Sheri Schobert, Shannon Coram, Kelly Swords, Loralee Koontz, Heather Werry, Angela Ardolino, Barbara Keskiner, Suzy Lopez, Lauren Warren, Marlene Sundquist, Crystal Madani, Karrie Pettit and Merial Reid. Right, Loralee Koontz, Founder and Editorial Director Angela Ardolino, Brooke Palmer of RSBP Events and Karla Stevenson.

2010 Junior League of Tampa Holiday Gift Market Kick-off Event & Patron Party: Left, Chris Christianson, Katie Shelnut, Christina & Ulrik Merrild and Aspen & Jake Kahl. Center, Amy Jones, Shannon Longo and their dear friend. Right, Friends enjoy one of the many samplings from the hundreds of vendors.

2010 Junior League of Tampa Holiday Gift Market Kick-off Event & Patron Party: Left, Crystal Madani, Founder and Editorial Director Angela Ardolino, Shannon Coram, and Sheri Schobert. Center, Lisa and Jeff Patterson, Sheri Schobert, Eric Longphee, Terri Parnell. Right, Kim French, Allison Burden, Chrisi Laxer, Marie Mosley.

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december calendar events/festivals Wiregrass Wednesdays Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 10 a.m. Get ready for a little sunshine, fresh air and a morning full of fun play activities at The Shops at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel. This month, Bay area families will be entertained by Gator Crusader (Dec. 1), Drum Magic (Dec. 8) and Tommy Girvin (Dec. 15). www. theshopsatwiregrass.com Everyone

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FOR MORE EvEnTs vIsIT TBpaREnTIng.COM

This popular sporting event benefits the mentoring programs for at risk youth in Pasco County as part of Big Brothers, Big Sisters and takes place at Tampa Bay Sporting Clays, 10514 Ehren Cutoff Road, Land O Lakes. Four-member teams are $440 with ammunition provided. Safety training and tournament followed by lunch, awards, drawing and silent auction. 813-769-3640. Moms, Dads The Shops at Wiregrass Fresh Market Dec. 4, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Girls Night Out for the Holidays Dec. 2, 5-8 p.m. Join Working Women of Tampa for a holiday-flavored Girls Night Out this month at the Shops at Marco Plaza, 8215 natures Way, Lakewood Ranch. Enjoy an evening of shopping, networking, pampering, wine tasting and more. First 100 guests get a swag bag. $5 members and $10 nonmembers. www. workingwomenoftampabay.com Moms St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show Dec. 2-5, various times Gear up for the Gulf Coast’s largest powerboats and sailboat display at Albert Whitted Park in the Mahaffey Theater yacht basin, St. Petersburg. Event features seminars, kids’ activities, sailboat rides, music and floating cocktail barge. Adults: $8 online; $10 onsite. Ages 15 and younger are free. www.showmanagement.com. Everyone A n n u a l Partnership Ball Dec. 3, 7-11 p.m. Support the Junior League of St. Petersburg as they partner with Vincent House to host the third annual ball “Winter Wonderland, a Wish of Hope Under a Starry night” at the Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront, 333 First St. S. Evening offers live entertainment, food, dancing and auctions. Tickets are $100. www. jlstpete.org. Moms Annual Clays for Kids Dec. 4, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

While great care was taken in compiling the calendar, it’s always best to phone ahead to confirm information.

Book at www.sesamestreetsafarioffun.com or 1-888-800-5447. 4-8 Charity Flag Football Tournament Dec. 5, 1 p.m. Twelve-year-old Andrew Moss is hosting a charity flag football tournament to benefit The Children’s Home. All Bay area middle school kids are invited to play at Skyway Park, 4840 independence Parkway in Tampa. Sponsorship packages also are available. Call 813-748-7777 to sign up. www.childrenshome.org 11-14 A Little History Dec. 8, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Let your little ones get a taste of your city’s history with fun monthly activities at the Tampa Bay History Center, 801 Old Water St. in December, kids experience “A Pioneer Holiday” complete with making homemade decorations for the cabin and churning butter for a holiday feast. One adult must accompany every two children. $10 per child; $6 per adult. www.tampabayhistorycenter.org 3-5

Browse food, handmade crafts and other goods from local vendors at this event launching in December. It will be on the first Saturday of every month and feature live music and food vendors. Free. www.shopsatwiregrass.com Everyone Jobsite Rocks VIII Dec. 4, 9 p.m. Join Jobsite Theater to close out the year with a wrap party full of bands, drawings and fun at new World Brewery, 1313 Eighth Ave., ybor City. Event raises funds for the theater. Doors open at 8 p.m. Minimum $8 donation. www. jobsitetheater.org Moms, Dads Rosita’s Birthday at Busch Gardens Dec. 5, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Celebrate a special birthday fiesta with Sesame Street’s Rosita at Busch Gardens’ Sesame Street Safari. Enjoy a lunch buffet, sing-along and special Latin treat with character meet and greets and a 6 x 8 family photo included. Lunch is $23 for adults and $17 for children. Pass members receive 10 percent discount. Park admission not included but required.

Georgette’s Annual Fashion Show Dec. 9, 10 a.m. Mark your calendars for a trendy fashion show courtesy of Georgette and Tashia Diaz at the Hyatt Regency Tampa, 211 n. Tampa St. The event benefits the Shimberg Breast Center at St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital and features live music, professional dancers, celebrity models, drawings and live and silent auctions. Doors open at 10 a.m.; fashion show begins at noon with lunch after. $75. www.sjhfoundation.org Moving Toward a Cure Dec. 11, 7 a.m. Take part in a 5k Run/Walk or 1-Mile Family Fun Run at Al Lopez Park in Tampa. Event proceeds benefit Miles for Hope, a nonprofit dedicated to fighting brain tumors, providing funding for research and clinical trials and raising public awareness. All participants receive a finishing medal. Adults: $20 for 5k and $15 for 1-mile. http://mfh.kintera.org/ tampa Everyone Arabic Bazaar and Cultural Festival Dec. 11-12, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Join MOSi and The Council on Americanislamic Relations-Tampa to celebrate one of

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the latest IMAX films, Arabia at the museum, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. Check out the new sweeping movie and enjoy food, entertainment, arts, crafts and more from the Arabic culture. Free with paid MOSi admission and free to museum members. www.mosi.org Everyone Lowry Park Zoo Camp Dec. 27-31, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Enroll the kids in this five-day camp over winter break at Lowry Park zoo, 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa. Kids get to travel around the world with a unique global program about the animals, cultures and traditions for each continent through lessons, arts and crafts projects, videos and more. $165 per child for zoo Pass Holders; $185 nonmembers. www. lowryparkzoo.com 4-10 Aqua Camps Dec. 20-30, various times Sign up the kids for short winter vacation camps at the Florida Aquarium. K-5 camps available include: incredible Adaptations (12/20-12/23), highlighting the amazing ways animals can adapt to different habitats; and Walrus, Whales and More! (12/27-12/30), focusing on the similarities and differences between marine animals. $190 each camp, per child. www.flaquarium.org 5-10

available for purchase. Free admission. www. studio620.org Everyone Art After Dark • Dec. 17, 8-11 p.m. Attend this monthly tradition on the third Friday at the Tampa Museum of Art, 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza in downtown Tampa. Each month, the museum partners with local organizations and artists to celebrate art, music and entertainment. Admission is $10; free for museum members, with a cash bar available. www.tampamuseum. org Moms, Date Night

film Holiday Classic Movie Series Dec. 5, 11, 12, 17-19, various times Wax nostalgic at this annual holiday movie series of Christmas classics showing this month at Tampa Theatre, 711 n. Franklin St. in Tampa. This year’s schedule includes: Dec. 5, The nightmare before Christmas; Dec. 11, Miracle on 34th Street; Dec. 12, White Christmas; and Dec. 17-19, it’s a Wonderful Life. www. tampatheatre.org Everyone The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of

art My Ticket to Tomorrow Elementary School Exhibition Through Dec. 31, various times View the artwork of Pinellas County elementary school students as they depict their vision of the future using visual art combined with the written word for the center’s 14th season of Word and image exhibitions on display at the museum, 719 Central Ave. in downtown St. Petersburg. Free admission, donations welcomed. www.moreanartscenter. org Everyone Tres Holizaar: Handmade Holiday Bazaar Dec. 5, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Browse this third annual holiday marketplace for homemade goods and gift ideas, presented by the St. Pete Craft Heroes at The Studio@620, 620 First Ave. S. in St. Petersburg. Lunch

FREE Events at Florida Blue Florida Blue wishes you and your family a happy, healthy holiday! FREE Weekly Wellness Dec 2nd • 5:30 - 6:30 pm – Fitness Check-up – Our experts will be on hand to give personalized advice and one-on-one fitness prescriptions. Get the fitness help you need to stay healthy through the holidays. Dec 16th • 5:30-6:30 pm – Yoga Day! – Come in and discover how simple stretching and yoga can be incorporated into your exercise routine. Appropriate for all ages, from youths to seniors, our experts will be giving demonstrations and answering your questions.

FREE Community Health Fair Dec 11th • 10 am - 4 pm – Come in and get the works – Get a jump start on a healthy lifestyle with the Florida Blue Health Fair. FREE health screenings (a $95 value) including cholesterol and glucose tests, blood pressure measurements and more, FREE relaxing massages, FREE expert one-on-one consultations and great register-to-win opportunities. PLUS, bring in two non-perishable items during our health fair and receive a special gift from Florida Blue!

Florida Blue (Across from WestShore Plaza)

the Dawn Treader • Opens Dec. 10 Lucy and Edmund return to narnia with cousin Eustace for a trip across the sea aboard the royal ship The Dawn Treader in their latest

201 N. West Shore Boulevard Tampa, Fl 33609 • 877-FL-BLUE-0 Mon-Sat: 10am-8pm Visit floridablue.com now and take a virtual tour. The Florida Blue center is brought to you by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. 70611-T-1010

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december calendar adventure complete with dragons, dwarves and lost warriors. Available in Digital 3D. Rated PG, 115 minutes. Check theaters for tickets and showtimes. 6 & Older Sunset Cinema: Polar Express Dec. 11, 6 p.m. Catch a modern-day holiday classic on the

big screen under the stars as part of Tampa Theatre’s traveling outdoor picture show at Cotanchobee Park, next to the Tampa Bay History Center, 801 Old Water St., downtown Tampa. Bring a blanket, lawn chair and picnic and enjoy the show. Gates open at 4 p.m. Free. www.tampatheatre.org Everyone TRON: Legacy Opens Dec. 17 Twenty years have passed since the original Tron hit movie screens, and now a virtual world worker looks to take down the Master Control Program guiding his world. Stars Jeff Bridges and Olivia Wilde (“House”). Available in Disney Digital 3D, Real D 3D and iMAX 3D. 13 & Older

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COnTInuED

coolers not permitted. Free. www.strazenter.org Everyone

theater & dance Christmas Stopping Through Dec. 12, various times Check out a unique comedy by playwright and Bay area theatre teacher James Rayfield about one man’s complicated attempts to ban Christmas in this production at Gorilla Theatre, 4419 n. Hubert Ave. in Tampa. www.gorillatheatre.com Moms, Dads Fiddler on the Roof Dec. 11-12, various times The Tony Award-winning musical returns to the Tampa stage in Carol Morsani Hall at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. Shows run 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday and 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sunday. Tickets start at $39.50. www.strazcenter.org 8 & Older The Santaland Diaries Dec. 9-22, various times Catch David Sedaris’ hilarious holiday comedy as part of the “After Hours” series at American Stage Theatre, 163 Third St. n. in St. Petersburg. See the holidays through the eyes of an unemployed writer hired as a “helper elf ” at Macy’s Santaland. www.americanstage.org Date Night

music & comedy Margaret Cho • Dec. 9, 8 p.m.

Yogi Bear Opens Dec. 17 A filmmaker visits Jellystone Park to shoot a documentary and crosses paths with two of the most beloved animated bears, yogi and BooBoo, brought to life as voiced by Dan Akroyd and Justin Timberlake. Available in Real D 3D in select locations. 6 & Older A Christmas Story • Dec. 17, 8 p.m. Settle in for this annual film tradition on the lawn behind the Straz Center, 1010 n. W.C. Macinnes Place in downtown Tampa. Ralphie and the rest of the Parker clan gear up for the holidays and all the joy that goes with it. Concessions available; stadium chairs and blankets allowed;

Dead Diva, and new comedy album, Cho proves that no topic is off limits. Mature content. $39$50. www.rutheckerdhall.com Moms, Date night Allstar Weekend • Dec. 10, 6 p.m.

EvEnT DunEDIn aRT HaRvEsT

After touring with Jonas Brothers and Selena Gomez, the teen quartet heads out on their first headline tour, stopping at Capitol Theatre, 405 Cleveland St. in downtown Clearwater. Tickets are $15 and $39, which includes Meet and Greet with band, autograph, group photo, exclusive poster and early admission. 727-791-7400. 12 & Older Andre Rieu • Dec. 10, 8 p.m. Catch the popular classical musician known for his energetic live concerts as he brings the Musical Holidays leg of his 2010 north American tour to the St. Pete Times Forum in downtown Tampa. Rieu is joined by his 55-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra and six soloists. Tickets start at $39. www.stpetetimesforum.com Everyone Amy Grant & Vince Gill • Dec. 12, 8 p.m. Hear from the award-winning husband and wife as they harmonize to holiday classics and some of their biggest hits at Clearwater’s Ruth Eckerd Hall. $59.50-$115. www.rutheckerdhall.com Moms, Date Night

Bring the girlfriends for a hilarious night out for the comedienne’s unabashed humor as she visits Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater. With a successful TV series, Drop

Justin Bieber My World Tour Dec. 19, 7 p.m. Bieber Fever takes a hold of the Bay area when Justin Bieber comes to the St. Pete Times Forum in downtown Tampa. Tickets start at $33.25 with $1.00 from each ticket being donated to Pencils of Promise, a charity focused on building schools

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and increasing educational opportunity for needy children across the globe. www.stpetetimesforum. com 8 & Older Last Comic Standing • Dec. 30, 8 p.m. T : S A V E 15 % S T A Y 1 N IG H S A V E 2 5 % HTS: S T A Y 2 N IG 33% HTS: SAVE IG N STAY 3 Credit! & Beverage od Fo ay D / 2/11 Includes a $10 Travel: 12/01/10 – 12/2 11 1/ 3 Q Book By 01/ Beach n BB Use Promo

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FELD ENTERTAINMENT RD155333 Enjoy evening of stand-up comedy with Joban No.: the Engagement five finalists from the seventh season TAMPA, FL of City: nBC’s popular TV show TRADE as the tourAD comes to Media: Ruth Eckerd Hall. Tickets start at Clearwater’s Insertion Date(s): $29.50. www.rutheckerdhall.com Date Night

Ad Size: 8.125” x 4.75” Section: ENTERTAINMENT

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Come 90 minutes before showtime to see our Asian elephants at the Animal Open HouseSM. And, meet the stars an hour before the show at the All Access Pre-show – FREE to all ticket holders!

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Racing & Re ks

SLOT CAR FUN! Your One Stop Shop for Holiday Gifts Tracks • Cars • Trucks • Toys Gift Certiﬁcates Available After-School Club • Racing Parties We’ll bring our track to your party or event!

Jon: 813-598-6099

3818 Bay Vista Drive, Tampa LICENSED

Just across from Britton Plaza: INSURED Let your kids race while you shop!

www.RacingAndReks.com A HOBBY THAT CAN LAST A LIFETIME!

We are not your typical history museum. We are “hands on,” offering fun and interactive exhibits for grown-ups and kids alike. Hop in the saddle and ride along on a cattle drive. Dress up in period clothes in the kid-sized Cracker Cabin. Row a crewing scull up the Hillsborough River. Guide trains on the Tiny Tampa play table. So, come and create memories while reflecting on the past.

Exactly What You Didn’t Expect 801 Old Water Street • Tampa, Florida 33602 • 813.228.0097 • www.tampabayhistorycenter.org

MS. LISA‛S DANCE ‘Twas the night before Christmas at Ms. Lisa’s Dance, When the staff decided to give 2-year-olds their chance. We will make gifts for Grandma, dance and play, Story-time will be a great way to end their day. Friday, December 17th Cookies and milk will be served at the end, 6pm- 7pm Don’t forget to tell a friend!

3805 W San Miguel St., Tampa (813) 253-LISA (5472)

www.mslisasdancestudio.com

$10.00 per child

Come dressed in your holiday pajamas Space is limited and payments must be made at the time of registration.

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Symphony of Lights Through Dec. 31, hourly 6-9 p.m. Watch lights and music come together in beautiful harmony around the giant Christmas tree at center court at the Shops at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel. www.shopsatwiregrass.com 4 & Older SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration Through December SeaWorld Orlando introduces new Christmas festivities and brings back some old favorites, including Sea of Trees, a choreographed light display across 74 trees, the Christmas Market, Polar Express Experience, Winter Wonderland on ice, Sesame Street Christmas and Clyde and Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas. www. seaworldorlando.com. Everyone Holiday Lights in the Garden Through Jan. 2, various times Walk through 425,000 twinkling, colorful lights at Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Viewings: 5:30-9:30 p.m. Gift and plant sale from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 12 and a dog parade at 3 p.m. Dec. 26. $2 suggested donation for adults; children 12 and younger are free. www. flbg.org 6 & Older Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Various dates and times Mickey heads up the ultimate holiday celebration all month at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. Guests can enjoy free cookies and cocoa, live entertainment, a fireworks extravaganza, a magic snowfall and Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade. www.disneyworld.com 4 & Older Victorian Christmas Stroll Dec. 1-23, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Tour a charming Victorian home decorated for

the holidays at The Henry B. Plant Museum, University of Tampa. Check out décor details in 14 exhibit rooms and sample spiced cider and cookies, while listening to hallway carolers. $12 adults, $6 children ages 4-18. Proceeds fund museum preservation projects. 813-258-7302. 6 & Older

Santa’s Open House in Oldsmar Dec. 4, 5-8:30 p.m. Get ready for a fun holiday open house with firetruck rides, photos with Santa and refreshments at Oldsmar Fire Rescue, 225 Pine Ave. n. All ages welcome. Free admission and parking. www. myoldsmar.com 4 & Older

Irving Berlin’s White Christmas Dec. 1-5, various times Prepare to be dazzled by the holiday classic when it’s performed at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Tampa. Dec. 1 is Broadway Family night where adults can purchase one full-price ticket and get one free child’s ticket with family-friendly activities from 6:15-6:45 p.m. www.strazcenter.org 6 & Older

Largo’s Annual Holiday Stroll Dec. 4, 5-9 p.m. Join friends and family for a seasonal stroll through Largo Central Park, 101 Central Park Drive, with a different holiday story and activity at each shelter and the official holiday tree lighting ceremony at 7 p.m. Free admission; concessions available for purchase. www.largoevents.com 6 & Older

Miracle on Seventh Avenue at Ritz Ybor Dec. 2, 7-9 p.m. The Ritz ybor will host this family event, featuring a Christmas tree lighting as well as the Seventh Avenue holiday party. ww.ritzybor.com Everyone

Deck the Halls with Mease Dec. 6-7, 6-7 p.m. Celebrate the holidays while supporting the many volunteer services provided by the Auxiliary of Mease Health Care through these holiday events taking place Dec. 6 at Mease Countryside Hospital, 3231 McMullen Booth Road, Safety Harbor, and Dec. 7 at Mease Dunedin Hospital, 601 Main St. Stop by for refreshments and carols. Free but donations to the auxiliary welcomed. www.mpmhealth.com Moms, Dads

Saturday with Santa • Dec. 4, 2-5 p.m. Bring the kids to meet Santa at the Henry B. Plant Museum in Tampa. The jolly one will be out on the veranda listening to children’s wishes, handing out trinkets and smiling for pictures. Event is free and open to the public. Parents are encouraged to bring their own camera to take photos. Reservations not required. 813-258-7302. 4 & Older Wesley Chapel Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting • ec 4, 4-7:30 p.m. The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce hosts this annual holiday festival at the Grove shopping center off Wesley Chapel Boulevard and i-75. Event offers crafts, giveaways, live entertainment, local food vendors and a tree lighting ceremony. www.wesleychapelchamber. org 4 & Older

Chanukah in the Park • Dec.7, 6-8 p.m. Attend a family-friendly Hanukkah party hosted by Rabbi Mendy Dubrowski of Chabad South Tampa in the park at Hyde Park Village. Evening includes menorah lighting ceremony, kosher wine tasting, food, arts and crafts, live music and more. Everyone welcomed, including pets. www. hydeparkvillage.net 6 & Older Winter Wonderland Dec. 10-12, 17-23, 26-30, 7-10 p.m.

Award Winning DVD for Fun Wise Exercise

Purchase your copy today. Great holiday gifts for your kids, grandkids or the perfect teacher gift! ”My kids are having so much fun exercising that they don’t even realize they’re learning math too.” Rachel, Mother of 3

A P P Y H O L I D AY S F R O M

T H E

STRAZ CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

ON STAGE NOW!

”What an amazing way for my kids to learn and keep fit... they love it!!”

STRAIGHT NO CHASER CHRISTMAS CHEERS

Dec. 11-12

Dec. 21

Mark, Father of 2

Learn more and purchase the award winning Exploracise Gymathtics DVD at

www.exploracise.com

Dec. 17-19

Jan. 5-16 Dec. 22-23

GIFT CARDS!

If you can’t give them the moon – give them the STARS.

Tickets: 813.229.STAR (7827) • STRAZCENTER.ORG

Outside Tampa Bay: 800.955.1045 • Group Services: 813.222.1018 Events, days, dates, times, performers and prices are subject to change without notice.

Spa Gift Certificates Are Always In Season Check out spa50.com for great deals at participating spas.

www.spa50.com .............................................................................................................................................................................................. Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

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Celebrate the season with loved ones while admiring elaborate displays of more than a million twinkling lights at Tampa’s Lowry Park zoo. Meet up with reindeers, savor holiday treats and enjoy free rides all evening. $13 for adults; $11 for kids ages 3-11. www.lowryparkzoo.com 4 & Older Safety Harbor Snow Fest! Dec. 11, 4-9 p.m. Prepare for a slippery night on a 20-inch slide covered with 30 tons of snow at the Safety Harbor baseball complex, 940 Seventh St. S. Event features bounce houses, carnival games, a visit from Santa and more. $1 admission includes one slide down ramp. $5 all-you-canride wristbands available. Benefits Elena Tresh Foundation, which helps families in need. www. elenatresh.org/events 4 & Older Night in Bethlehem at Odessa Dec. 11, 3:30-6:30 p.m. Come savor the sights and sounds of the first Christmas in Bethlehem at Journey Christian Church, 7708 Van Dyke Road in Odessa. Meet shepherds, shopkeepers, Roman soldiers and even Mary and Joseph. Families can build crafts in the marketplace. Kids can make their own bread. Free and open to the public. www.tampajourney. com 4 & Older Trans-Siberian Orchestra Winter Tour 2010 Dec. 11, 3 & 8 p.m. For some, it just wouldn’t be Christmas without the sounds of this exciting progressive rockclassical collaboration. This winter, the group returns to Tampa’s St. Pete Times Forum for two performances. Prepare for lights, pyrotechnics and exceptional music. Tickets start at $25. www. stpetetimesforum.com 8 & Older Historic Old Northeast Candlelight Tour of Homes • Dec. 12, 3-8 p.m.

Stroll oak-lined historic Eastern Hillsborough and take self-guided tours through beautiful homes decorated for the season. Buy tickets in advance for $20 or the day of for $25 at the Westminster Presbyterian Church, 402 E. Lumsden Road. Portion of net proceeds to benefit Clothes to Kids and preservation projects of the neighborhood association. www.honna.org Moms, Date Night Winter Tales • Dec. 13-18, various times Sing along with Tiny Tim, Scrooge, the Elves and more, performed as hand puppets at Bits ‘n Pieces Puppet World, 12904 Tom Gallagher Road in Dover. Shows are 10:30 a.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. Saturday. Tickets are $8.50 and include show, workshop and puppet studio tour. www.puppetworld.com 4 & Older Cirque Dreams Holidaze Dec. 17-19, various times See Christmas ornaments come to life when costumed characters perform astonishing feats to celebrate the season onstage at Tampa’s Straz Center. From flipping gingerbread men to highwire marching soldiers, you’ll get lost in this dreamlike theatrical wonderland. Tickets start at $43.50. www.strazcenter.org 6 & Older The Chocolate Nutcracker Dec. 18-19, various times Life Force Cultural Arts Academy’s production is a spin on the Tchaikovsky classic in a Harlem Renaissance swing setting that takes the audience through Jazzland, Gospeland, Africa and more, all from the St. Pete stage at Mahaffey Theater, 400 First St. S. Tickets, $17-$37. www.mahaffeytheater. com 6 & Older A Christmas Carol • Dec. 23, 2 & 7 p.m. Charles Dickens’ cherished tale of the season returns to the stage at Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 McMullen Booth Road in Clearwater, transporting

us back to 19th century London and dear old bamboozled Ebenezer Scrooge, just in time for Christmas for two shows only. Tickets start at $28. www.rutheckerdhall.com 8 & Older Noon Year’s Eve • Dec. 31, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Get a head start on ringing in 2011 with this family-friendly tradition at Tampa’s Lowry Park zoo. Radio Disney AM 1380 hosts the party with games, arts and crafts, entertainment and more. Toast with noisemakers, hats and juice as the clock strikes noon. included with paid admission. www. lowryparkzoo.com Everyone New Year’s Eve at Busch Gardens Dec. 31, 10:30 p.m. Count down to 2011 with your friends and family at Busch Gardens with a concert by the Guess Who at 10:30 p.m. followed by a fireworks finale at midnight. included with paid admission. www. buschgardens.com 6 & Older Aqua-Eve • Dec. 31, 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Splash in the new year at the Florida Aquarium, 701 Channelside Drive, downtown Tampa. Enjoy live music, dancing, complimentary food, beer and wine and a champagne toast, with the Channelside fireworks display at midnight. Must be 21 or older. $80 by Dec. 5; $90 Dec. 6-19; $100 after Dec. 19. Order tickets at 813-273-4030. www.flaquarium. org Date Night First Night St. Pete 2011 December 31, 5pm-midnight Celebrate a brand new year with the rest of St. Petersburg ushering it in with you at this year-end, downtown party. The family-friendly celebration includes live music, dancing, bubbles and fireworks. Tickets go on sale Dec. 1 and cost $10 for adults, $5 for children 6-12 and can be purchased at Urban Style Flats, 237 Martin Luther King Jr. St. S. www. firstnightstpete.com 8 & Older

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Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s making a list and cHecking it twice. . . santaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cottage tuesday, december 14 5 to 9 pm tHursday, december 16 5 to 9 pm saturday, december 18 12 to 7 pm sunday, december 19 12 to 5 pm tuesday, december 21 5 to 9 pm Friday, december 24 10 am to 2 pm

free gift wrapping on tHese dates

For more details and events, please visit Hydeparkvillage.net, twitter.com/Hydeparkvillage or www.Facebook.com/Hydeparkvillage

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APPLY NOMINATE VOTE SHARE ATTEND If you are involved in or support a nonprofit organization worthy of recognition, or know of an individual who’s dedicated efforts are helping our community, please encourage them to learn more about the WEDU Be More Awards™ — where children find families; puppies find homes; individuals find inspiration and nonprofit organizations find support.

Learn more, apply, nominate, vote and share at wedu.org/bemore

Luncheon and ceremony

Thursday, January 13, 2011 Honorary Chairman Ryan Nece A La Carte Event Pavilion, Tampa This WEDU fundraising event is supported by:

WEDU - your PBS station and public media source on Florida’s Suncoast. 813.254.9338

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WEDU-TBPM910-BMAad.indd 1

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December 2010

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DEC. 31 9 P.M. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1 A.M. TICKET INCLUDES FOOD, BEER & WINE

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

UNDERWATER WONDERS $80 THRU DEC. 5

$90 DEC. 5-19

DAZZLING VIEW OF FIREWORKS

CHAMPAGNE TOAST AT MIDNIGHT $100 AFTER DEC. 19

MUST BE 21+

TICKETS SELL OUT EARLY, ORDER YOURS TODAY. CALL 813.273.4568 OR VISIT FLAQUARIUM.ORG