February 2012 by Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

Happy Gasparilla from your Children’s Board! After the big parade, don’t forget to stop by one of our Family Resource Centers in your neighborhood. Funded in part by the Children’s Board, FRCs are warm, inviting places that offer a variety of free services like educational play groups, parenting classes, mobile health services, job skills training, CPR courses and much more!

Get a FREE child’s admission to the Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) with the purchase of an adult ticket. To learn more, visit www.ChildrensBoard.org

Call to learn about the Children’s Board’s Family Resource Center near you today.

Brandon: 740-4634 • N. Tampa: 558-1877 Ctr Tampa: 204-1741 • S. County: 641-5600 Town ‘N Country: 356-1703 Your Children’s Board serves as the leading voice and advocate for children and families in Hillsborough County, investing in more than 100 programs that touch over 100,000 citizens every year. To learn more, visit www.ChildrensBoard.org or call 813.229.2884.

A Special Delivery

Few deliveries in life are more special than having a baby. I want to be sure that my delivery will be special. That will require having my baby in a calm, family-friendly environment. The hospitals of BayCare Health System have private labor and delivery suites along with exceptional nursing and medical care. And they deliver more babies than anyone else in Tampa Bay. Select a BayCare hospital, and you too can expect a Special Delivery.

Mease Countryside Hospital Morton Plant Hospital St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital St. Joseph’s Hospital–North South Florida Baptist Hospital

For a free physician referral or to request a FREE I Expect Planning Guide:

(855) 626-6610 | IExpectMore.org BC112357online-1111

contents

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february 2012 • 5TH year • 10TH Issue

features

10 BaBy StepS Make your nursery stylish, functional

14 Staying ahead of the Curve Scoliosis checks important for children 16 Love iS in the air And on the page 18 MatterS of the heart February is American Heart Month 20 getting a CLue Talk life, love, sex with your teen

24 a Storied Life Make reading aloud a family habit 28 extraordinary girL Madison Lynn

every month 6 Letter froM the editor 11 heaLth and WeLLneSS 15 after SChooL and SuMMer 22 eduCation 26 What’S happening 30 north hiLLSBorough neWS 32 South hiLLSBorough neWS 34 north pineLLaS neWS 36 South pineLLaS neWS 38 paSCo neWS 40 around toWn

42 CaLendar of eventS

On the cover: Cover Kid Winner Kingston Clyce Moore riding the PlasmaCar at Seedlings Retail in South Tampa.

Photograph by: Amy Pezzicara, www.PezzPhoto.com

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Summer Splash

summer camp fair

Saturday, March 24, 10am - 1pm Straz Center for the Performing Arts

FIRST 150 KIDS GET A GOODY BAG FILLED WITH GREAT ITEMS FOR THE SUMMER!

Come meet face to face with the best summer, day and sleepover camps in Tampa Bay and the nation! Live entertainment all day Free fun activities for the kids Resources to help prepare for the summer Giveaways every half-hour including free weeks of camp

For information, sponsorships and vendor booths:

813-949-4400, SummerSplashTampaBay.com

February 2012

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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 Chris Kuhn Calendar and Neighborhood Stories Luke Beck Graphic Artist Susan Margolis Marketing Director Sandy Parrish Sales Director Catherine Pylant Public Relations Amy Pezzicara Contributing Photographer Todd A. Varde Director of IT Social Moms Rachel Long Lisa-Marie Leihy Ellie Hirsch

letter

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

frOM THe eDITOr

Wow! 2012 has gotten off to a great start! Hopefully you and your family got to enjoy the 108th annual Gasparilla Festival last month. i got to enjoy the parade with some friends on Bayshore Boulevard and attend some great house parties. in January, i also got to visit Fort Myers and see one of my former students from Miami Children’s Theater, Dominique Scott, who stars in the Broadway national tour of Rock of Ages. Many of us made new year’s Resolutions to eat Me with Dominique after his performanc better and lose some weight. But it shouldn’t just e of Rock of Ages. be about looking good, but feeling good as well. That includes taking care of your heart. Lissette Campos, ABC Action news’ director of community affairs, shares some facts about women’s elevated risk for heart attack on page 18. Speaking of women, we’ve made a slight change to a staple of our magazine, Extraordinary Woman. To help Girls Scouts of America celebrate their 100th anniversary, we are launching our 2012 Extraordinary Girl feature. Each month we’ll select one girl in Tampa Bay to share her story of leadership, community and hope. Our first honoree Madison Lynn has raised more than $12,000 for numerous community projects. She tells us about working up to her Silver Award on page 28. Tampa Bay Parenting’s goal is to highlight the young people in our community that are making an impact. These young women are our future Extraordinary Women and it’s my goal in 2012 to share their stories with you and your daughters. if you know an Extraordinary Girl, i want to hear about her. Visit www.tbparenting.com/yearofthegirl to nominate her. Before you know it summer will be here, so mark your calendars for our fourth annual Summer Splash fair on March 24 at the Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. Get ready for the best summer camp fair to date and look for the Summer Camp Guide in the March issue! Keep tuning in each week to ABC Action news at noon on Thursdays. We’ve merely touched the tip of the iceberg of parenting. Please continue to write me on Facebook at www.facebook. com/TampaBayParentingMagazine and follow me on Twitter @angelaardolino. Have a great February and make sure to kiss someone you love on Valentine’s Day!

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 2007-2012 by Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine. All rights reserved. Comments and suggestions are always welcome.

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Voted Tampa Bay’s Best Summer Camps!

A Different Species of Summer Camp.

Camp is a time to make new friends, try new things, come face-to-face with a giraffe and challenge a dive coaster. Well, it is at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Adventure Island! We offer camps for animal lovers, coaster enthusiasts, future veterinarians and everything in between. Day camps are available for students in Kindergarten through high school. For students in 5th grade through college, we offer unique resident camps that include overnight stays at Busch Gardens.

BuschGardens.org • 1-877-BGT-CAMP

............................................................................................................................................................................................... Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine February 2012 *Program components, pricing, and availability subject to change. ©2012 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc. All rights reserved.

TBParenting.com

baby steps 5 ways TO Make yOur nursery sTylIsH, funcTIOnal

.................................... Grant watches over LuLu from his sleigh style crib by Relic.

by kylIe ITalIanO anD enrIque crespO

Exciting, daunting, overwhelming and thrilling — just like the arrival of your baby, designing the nursery can bring an array of emotions. Whether starting with a blank canvas, or converting that guest room, office or junk room into your baby’s sanctuary, here are a few ideas to help you coordinate this most important space.

Colors

Traditonalist or modernist, fun and preppy or gender neutral, with all of the options available, how do you narrow down a color for your baby’s room? We like to start with an inspiration piece. it can be something nostalgic; a framed print of a character from your favorite childhood book or a scarf knitted by your grandmother, with pops of turquoise or yellow. You may find the perfect area rug, with a grey and white chevron pattern or a bright bedding set that is just right for your new arrival. The inspiration piece for this room was a vintage rocking horse that reflects the homeowners’ love of horses, along with framed competition ribbons that add a splash of color and a nod to heritage. The dark red on the horses bridle is a repeated element throughout the room, which though subtle, can be found on the bedding, the sofa and the airplane shaped shelving on the wall, tying the room together for harmonious design.

The vintage desk and chair set are complemented nicely with a traditional dresser in a distressed brown finish, and the modern, brightly colored clock adds interest and whimsy. The gender-neutral room can have a soothing palette of whites and creams or the trendy boldness of aqua and orange. Leaving space for accessories and items to be placed after the baby’s arrival can make the design more personal.

Furniture

diapers you will change that first year! Look to the other rooms in your home and think about your design style. Are you a minimalist or do your tastes tend to be more traditional? Do you envision a girly room with French-legged dressers, crystal knobs and intricate carvings or a trendy and bright room with a mid-century modern twist? Pulling together pictures from magazines and online sites will help you and your designer get a complete look.

Cribs, dressers, storage and diapers! Planning the layout of the room is the best way to make sure you have all of the items you really need to make your baby comfortable while also making the room functional for those midnight feeds and diaper changes. Storage is very important, so a dresser is a key piece. it can also double as a changing table, as long as the changing pad is securely fastened. Storage units with baskets are another great option, with plenty of room for diapers and ointments; these baskets can be used for games and books as your baby grows. For a truly functional design, you may consider a custom dresser with shelves and drawers for diapers and clothes, and a hidden diaper genie within a pull out cabinet – for the hundreds of

Budget

you don’t have to buy everything at once. Plan a layout and carry the measurements for furniture with you. Decide on a budget and identify the key pieces that you want to spend money on or are planning on buying new. Then keep an eye out for continued on page 12

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.................................................................................................................................................... health & wellness " %

A CAREGIVING SERVICE

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health & wellness ...................................................................................................................................................... sales and steals as well as unique or unusual pieces that can serve as end tables for books or bottles, accessories and storage pieces.

Incorporating pieces from Allison and Tom’s histories, like this vintage rocking horse, was very important for them.

Safety

A Personal Promise to Care. Our patients speak loud and clear, and they’re telling their friends about HealthPoint’s Pediatricians. We find that the majority of our new patients were referred by friends or family members*. Our physicians are qualified and highly recommended. *Patient Satisfaction Survey, August 2010-July 2011

Please call us at (813) 397-1344

to make an appointment, or for additional information.

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873 E. Bloomingdale Ave. Brandon, FL 33511 24630 State Road 54 Lutz, FL 33559

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1202 S. Church Ave. Tampa, FL 33629 4211 Van Dyke Rd. Suites 101A Lutz, FL 33558

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10909 W. Linebaugh Ave. Suite 100 Tampa, FL 33626 Get to know our physicians: Scan the QR code to visit our YouTube Channel.

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The most important element in planning for your new baby is safety. Whether you are buying new furniture or repurposing a used piece, it’s important to ensure your furniture meets current safety guidelines. The chemicals released from the furnishings, appliances and cleaners in our homes cause indoor air pollution. By selecting furniture made to meet high standards of quality control and by painting with low or zero VOC paints air pollution can be minimized.

Hiring a Professional

Baby room design trends are ever changing, but a design professional can help navigate the countless variations of styles and options available as well as guide you in selecting items that will keep the project within your desired budget. A good designer will not only listen to your ideas and create a unified design concept, she will also be there to organize and oversee delivery of furniture and to style the room so it is ready for the big day! While designers earn $100-$275 an hour, a good team will be able to evaluate your project and give you a proposal that estimates the amount of time it will take to complete your dream nursery, helping you budget accordingly. Kylie Italiano and Enrique Crespo, with Casa Nova Design Group, are available for an initial consultation. For more information, visit www.casanovadesigngroup.com.

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staying ahead of the

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

by aMy Gall

For nearly two years, 16-year-old Elicia Collier had a feeling that something just wasn’t right with her back. An active teenager involved in cheerleading, track and basketball in the past, she initially thought the discomfort might be related to a sports injury. When the pain increased at a rapid rate, a trip to the pediatrician led to the diagnosis of a severe curvature of the spine, also known as scoliosis. in December, Dr. David Siambanes, an orthopedic surgeon at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, used metal rods to straighten Elicia’s spine, which had curved to a nearly 75-degree angle. According to the national Scoliosis Foundation, about 6 million Americans have some form of scoliosis. Though anyone can be affected, girls are at a slightly higher risk than boys. “Scoliosis can first appear in young children or even infants, but most often it shows up during middle to late childhood — a time when the spine and the rest of the body goes through a growth spurt,” says Dr. Siambanes. “Signs of scoliosis include an elevated shoulder blade, a waist that is lopsided and/or hips that seem unusually high.” in most cases, scoliosis arises for no apparent reason, which is referred to as idiopathic scoliosis. Occasionally, scoliosis is the result of an illness, birth defect, such as cerebral palsy, or a malformation of part of the spine during pregnancy, known as congenital scoliosis.

curve scOlIOsIs cHecks IMpOrTanT fOr cHIlDren

When viewed from the rear on an X-ray, the spine of an individual with typical scoliosis may look more like an S or a C rather than a straight line.

An X-ray of Elicia Collier’s back shows what her spine looks like since the surgery.

Dr. Siambanes notes that some curves of the spine are mild and do not require immediate treatment. A minor curve should be monitored through periodic examinations and X-rays to ensure it does not increase. if a curve is fairly large, 20-40 degrees, and a child is still growing, a brace is often recommended to keep the curve from getting worse. if the curve progresses further, surgery may be recommended. Surgery becomes a necessity in extreme cases of scoliosis when the rib cage puts pressure on the lungs, heart and other internal organs, making it more difficult to breathe and harder for the heart to pump. “Scoliosis surgery is one of the most extensive and complex orthopedic surgical procedures performed on children,” says Dr. Siambanes. “However, recent advances in surgical technology and high-tech monitoring equipment have improved the success and safety of these surgical procedures and even eliminated the need for braces after surgery.” Elicia spent five days in the hospital after her surgery, and was able to return to moderate activity within two weeks. During a recent follow-up appointment, she could not contain her smile. “i tell everyone i know how amazing i think Dr. Siambanes is. i can only imagine how much pain I would be in today if he hadn’t fixed my back. I really do feel like he gave me my life back.” For more information about scoliosis and treatment options, please visit www. stjosephschildren.com or call 813-443-2046.

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.................................................................................................................................................. after school & summer

ZOO-NIQUE EXPERIENCE

Why just go to summer camp when you can go to Zoo Camp? Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo offers exciting and enriching summer camps for kids of all ages. Our expert staff provides the most fun and safe environment for animal adventures with friends that your children will always remember. • Camps for students grades K-8 • Named #1 Zoo in U.S.A. • More than 1,500 animals • Water-play areas & rides • Make new friends • Standards-based programs

STRENGTHENING OUR COMMUNITY TOGETHER

Popular Camps Include: Positively Primates, Animal Trainer, Animal Care, Bump In The Night & More!

% Save 15 e

Sponsored by:

813-935-8552 ext. 268 Exit 48/I-275

by booking onlin th on March 24

At the Y, we are committed to strengthening the foundations of our community. From affordable child care and mentoring opportunities for at-risk teens to a range of support groups for members, our initiatives promote a healthy spirit, mind and body. We depend on our donors and partners to help us keep our doors open to all. Your gift to the yMCA Y will have a meaningful, enduring impact right in your own neighborhood.

STRENGTHENING STRENGTHENING STRENGTHENING OUR COMMUNITY OUR COMMUNITY OUR COMMUNITY TOGETHER TOGETHER TOGETHER

At the Y, we are committed to t the Y,strengthening we to Atare thecommitted Y, we are toof thecommitted foundations trengthening the foundations of strengthening the foundations of our community. From affordable child Contact your local Y to make a gift or ur community. From affordable child our community. From affordable care and mentoring opportunities forchild volunteer your time. are andat-risk mentoring care teens and opportunities mentoring to a rangeopportunities offor support for t-risk teens to a range of support at-risk to a range of support groups forteens members, our initiatives roups for members, our initiatives groups for members, our initiatives promote a healthy spirit, mind and romotebody. a promote healthy spirit, mind and a healthy spirit, mind and We depend on our donors ody. Weand depend on depend our donors body. We on donors partners to help usour keep our nd partners to help us keep our and partners to help us keep our www.ymcatampabay.org doors open to all. Your gift to the oors open to all. Your gift to the doors open to all. Your gift to Y will have a meaningful, enduringthe will............................................................................................................................................................................................... have meaningful, enduring enduring Ya will haveina your meaningful, impact right mpact right in your impact right in your Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine February 2012 TBParenting.com 15 own neighborhood. wn neighborhood. own neighborhood.

Love Is in the Air And on the page

Lani Designs

Sparkle Mom Jewelry

This beautiful bracelet is customizable with your kid’s birthstone, so you can keep them close always. $275 SparkleMom.com

Peaceable Kingdom Valentine’s Day Cards A card and treat box in one! Fill the fold-up treat boxes with your love’s favorite sweets! it comes with 28 treat box cards and 42 stickers. $13 PeaceableKingdom.com

no stencils, decals or mass manufacturing goes into these glasses. Each one is lovingly hand-painted then fired in a three-day process. if you have something in mind, but don’t see that particular design, you can work with the creative team to make your one-of-a-kind masterpiece! $22/glass; $75/set of 4. LaniDesigns.com

Seltzer Goods’ Magnet Sets Whether it’s on your file cabinet or fridge, turn a boring metal surface into a mini art gallery with witty magnet sets. $11 SeltzerGoods.com

Comfy Critters Give your littlest Valentine two gifts in one! These super snuggly, hooded fleece blankets turn into a pillow and animal companion. $25 MyComfyCritters.com

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Isabelle Grace Jewelry Keep your kids close to your heart with this mini tag necklace. Add a gold heart charm or personalize it with your favorite initials. Every charm is handmade. Starts at $125. IsabelleGraceJewelry.com

C. Wonder Waffle Maker

Think out of the box, or square, this Valentine’s Day, nd cook up some special heart-shaped waffles for your family. $38 www.cwonder.com

BuggyLove

BuggyLove is the first organic cleaning kit for strollers on the market. Created by parents for parents, it’s an on-the-go solution for your stroller maintenance needs. $50 BuggyLove.com

I Heart Minnie Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: i Heart Minnie includes five, fun-filled episodes that underline the themes of friendship, teamwork, sharing and problem solving. $20 DisneyDVD.Disney.Go.com

Dyson Animal

Halsa Mat

Songs from the Baobab

This acclaimed book-and-CD set includes 29 lullabies and soothing rhymes, representing the rich cultures of 10 countries in Africa. $17 TheSecretMountain.com

Being a parent can be utterly exhausting. So this Valentine’s Day, give the gift of relaxation. The Halsa Mat stimulates your body’s acupressure points, leaving you relaxed and refreshed in just minutes. $40 HalsaMat.com

Say goodbye to all pet hair! The DC41 Animal is a powerful and maneuverable machine that automatically adjusts to any floor surface for the best performance. $600 Dyson.com

Bio+Green Crystals Just drop the water-soluble sachet into a 32-oz spray bottle, shake and spray. One hundred percent biodegradable and environmentally friendly, all Bio+Green products are non-toxic, and great for people with allergies, asthma, ADHD and autism. $6 BioGreenCrystals.com

February 2012

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matters of the

heart

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

by lIsseTTe caMpOs

what is a heart attack? A heart attack occurs when the blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, usually by a blood clot. if this clot cuts off the blood flow completely, the part of the heart muscle supplied by that artery begins to die. Source: American Heart Association

It’s a tiny little red dress covered in beads. I keep it at the office near my computer screen to remind me to take care of my ticker. The ruby red dress is my Go Red for Women campaign pin, given to me by a friend at the American Heart Association. it was the day when years of reading heart disease stats finally sunk in. Here she was, someone i knew and trusted, saying, “Heart disease is the no. 1 killer of women in this country.” And as if i needed reinforcement, in my line of sight, on the table behind her was a framed picture of my girls. The whole thing was in a word, weird! A year later, i still can’t shake that feeling when i remember the visit. And that is actually a good thing. Propelled by fear, personal loss, or epiphany, women need to start taking these heart attack stats much more seriously. According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease kills women more than the next four causes of death combined, including all forms of cancer. Experts say the majority of loved ones lost, including wives, moms, sisters, and friends, could’ve been spared with changes in diet, exercise and smoking cessation.

symptoms in women • Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of your chest. it can last a few minutes or go away and come back. • Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach. • Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.

So what is happening? Why the heart attack discrimination leveled against women? Too many times, women ignore the symptoms. Employees at the morgue, funeral home and E.R. hear she thought it was gas, a hot flash or stress all too often from next of kin.

• Breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

if you’re reading this and thinking, “i would totally know whether i was having a heart attack. i’m no dummy!” you’ve missed the point.

• As with men, women’s most common symptom is chest pain or discomfort, but women are more likely to experience this in combination with other less ominous symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, back and/or jaw pain.

it’s not iQ that gets in the way of common sense, it’s the daily grind of juggling family, friends and work. We’re too busy taking care of everyone else’s needs and neglecting our own. if you still don’t believe this can happen to you, take 2 minutes and 45 seconds to watch Just A Little Heart Attack. This short film on the American Heart Association’s Go Red website, www.goredforwomen.org, may finally change your mind. it did mine, as i watched the mom, clearly having a heart attack, continue to make lunch for her kids, breakfast for her husband and take one more call from the office.

Source: American Heart Association

Lissette Campos is the director of community affairs for WFTS-TV ABC Action News.

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.................................................................................................................................................. after school & summer

Actually, the feeling is immeasurable. So bring the family here and make some deep connections

flaquarium.org | 813.273.4000

with a huge Puffer Fish and over 20,000 amazing sea creatures.

CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE SEA KIND

February 2012

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

by kellIe-lee JacksOn

getting a

clue Talk lIfe, lOve, sex wITH yOur Teen

Building a positive relationship with our children is imperative if we truly want them to trust their ability to confide in and be guided by us. Creating a foundation of respect and trust is essential in any relationship, particularly if we are to feel safe to reveal our feelings, fears and problems. As parents, we need to make it known early in the lives of our children that we are here for them and that we are learning and growing together.

Being an adult doesn’t mean we have all the answers, it just means we have more life experience. When we keep in mind that we too have had to navigate our way through the world, making mistakes based upon the limited information and perspective that we had when we were young, it makes it easier to see the struggles of our children from a place of compassion, understanding and sensitivity. However, if we deny the reality that we too were once young and naive and take the position of the all knowing adult, we close ourselves off from our children and limit their ability to see us as a person and not just a parent. if we can acknowledge our shortcomings and failings and show our children through our actions and choices that we too are constantly working to be our best, our children will be more likely to accept themselves and connect with us as they make decisions and face challenges. We can’t expect our children to come to us with issues that are affecting them if we have not taken the time to nurture their trust. Making the time to talk and really listen to our children every day

about their thoughts, opinions and ideas sends a strong message about how much we value them. Creating daily opportunities for positive interaction with our children sets a pattern for discussion that makes it easier to discuss sensitive and more serious issues when they arise. if we consciously make an effort to remain connected to our children through constant and positive communication, we are making ourselves available to guide them in their decision making and help them to make positive choices. it’s typical for teenagers to talk to their friends more than their parents as they try to establish their own identity and make their own way in the world. While this is a healthy progression toward autonomy, it’s essential that parents balance that need for independence with keeping the lines of communication open at home. One way we can do that is by breaking down the barriers that make us seem unapproachable or intimidating, particularly about difficult topics such as relationships, sex and drugs. For them to feel they can come to us about issues affecting them, we really need to make an effort to demonstrate that we are open and willing to discuss anything. Drawing from memories of our teen years can really help us to improve this communication. Being honest with ourselves about the doubts, struggles and difficulties that we experienced and remembering the embarrassment and selfconsciousness felt can help us be more sensitive, thoughtful and understanding. To successfully create an open dialogue with our teens requires perseverance and the ability to put ourselves in their shoes. it helps to acknowledge that the reason our perspective on life and the issues affecting us differs is because we have life experience to draw upon. Allowing our mind to revisit our feelings of awkwardness, confusion and uncertainty and how it felt when even the smallest thing going wrong felt like the end of the world is an invaluable exercise that will set a tone of compassion, sensitivity and understanding and help us to be more willing to and capable of speaking calmly and openly, especially when discussing more delicate issues. Additionally, when we’re young, we only have a limited picture of our parents, so communicating to our children that in our teens we too struggled to establish our own independence and making it clear that we certainly didn’t have all the answers (and still don’t), can help us to relate to them on a different level and open the way for them to communicate with us in a new and positive way. if they feel they can relate to us, they will be continued on page 22

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education

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more inclined to let us into their world, to talk to us about the little occurrences in their day and to trust us with the bigger issues and more difficult topics. As painful and frustrating as it feels to see our children make mistakes, that is precisely how we all learn to make better choices. The consequences of the mistakes we make give us the life lessons to draw upon when making future decisions. Modeling positive behaviors to our children is the most powerful thing we can do to help them to cope with the ups and downs of life. if we model respectful interactions, remembering to talk to our children and not at them, if we make a point of really listening to what they are saying, recognizing their needs and spend less time judging and criticizing and more time identifying positive behaviors and choices, we can turn around a strained or difficult relationship or improve on the positive relationship we already have. it’s never too late to change the way we communicate with our children. Being a positive role model doesn’t mean we’re immune to making mistakes, it just means that we’re seen by our children to be responsible for the choices we make and the outcomes of those choices. if our children see us face the challenges of life with flexibility, determination and optimism and perceive that we’re forever learning, changing and growing, they will be more inclined to follow our lead and meet their challenges with the same fortitude and positive expectations to overcome life’s obstacles. if we empower our children by teaching them that they have the ability to change anything that is not working in life through their thoughts and actions, they will be more inclined to take our positive approach and to involve us in their decision making. Kellie-Lee Jackson and co-contributor Caroline Schar are guiding kids through the difficult teenage years in their new book, My Journal, My Friend.

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What’s New at Shorecrest? • Global Scholars Initiative — High school students major in international studies through travel, speakers, Skype and world-wide experiences • iPads used in Junior Kindergarten • 34,000 sq. ft. Athletic Center, Varsity Wrestling Team, Competitive Cheerleading • Over 60 Lower and Middle Division After-School Programs • Learning Spanish through Music • Reading Workshop in K-4th grade teaches the foundation of writing and reading through peer collaboration • Handwriting Without Tears program developed by Occupational Therapists, begins in preschool • Learning about the Environment through hands-on science experiments • Second and fourth graders create student-driven digital portfolios, earning recognition by Education Week Magazine

Take a tour & see how Shorecrest is shaping tomorrow’s leaders!

Shorecrest PREPARATORY SCHOOL PRE-K (AGE 3) THROUGH GRADE 12 5101 1st St. N.E., St. Petersburg, FL 33703

727-456-7511 • www.shorecrest.org

Expect the Best!

February 2012

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a storied life Make reaDInG alOuD a faMIly HabIT

....................... by JuDy kenT

As parents we all hope to give our children the best and prepare them for all that this world may bring. One way to give them a significant leg up is to give them the gift of literacy.

is part of the endeavor. Start the reading habit early by reading aloud daily. Experiment, using different voices and creating different sounds with words.

Literacy is the door to all knowledge. Once we learn to read, we are able to learn. Literacy begins with an environment rich in books, magazines, and newspapers and filled with storytelling and communication. A great way to begin the literacy journey is to read aloud to children.

Although children’s literature certainly provides many wonderful options, during infancy a child will respond to anything. Reading the grocery list aloud in the car with expression will captivate a child; even reading colorful ads from the newspaper will entertain. Children also need to see and touch books. Be sure to include books that are childproof so that children may handle them.

Reading aloud is about more than just learning to read; it is about making connections between parent and child. Reading to children creates an emotional bond like no other. This bond is an avenue to lifelong communication that can withstand the often-challenging stages of growth and development that children experience. The act of reading aloud models language; it creates knowledge of the written word and the relationship between sound and print. Reading aloud introduces the patterns of language and provides an opportunity to stretch thinking skills by making predictions, discussing outcomes and identifying cause and effect. As education research shows, early literacy experiences improve student success in the classroom. And the best part – reading aloud is a gift every adult can afford to give!

Start Young

The gift of literacy begins at birth. infants respond to many elements of the read-aloud experience: the human voice and its expressiveness, the touch, smell, and color of books and the attention that

Establish a Routine

Humans love routine. We form habits simply by creating routines. To instill the lifelong habit of reading, make it a priority each day. Each family must find a convenient time for reading each day. This may be snuggling and reading together just before bed or taking a few moments while dinner is cooking. With younger children, it may be before nap time or the first activity after a nap. it is also important for children to see the adults in their life reading. Create a time when the entire family reads – even though a child may not be an independent reader yet, he will happily “read” books with the rest of the family. Modeling reading for pleasure and for information is vital.

Create a Space for Books

Books are appealing. They call you to worlds unknown; they are a source of information; they are friends waiting to happen. Books deserve a special place in a home. Work to create a home library. The library could be as small as a special crate with a place of honor in the family room

or a closet transformed into a book nook. if possible, include cozy pillows, cushions or chairs that will accommodate at least one adult and one child. Fill the library with reading material – a variety of selections to meet the interests of the child. Take advantage of the local library to keep the home library fresh and appealing.

Print Is Everywhere

Stop for a moment and think about the world we live in. Print is everywhere! We are surrounded by words – street signs, billboards, grocery stores, the aisles at Target. Parents may open this world to children simply by talking about what is seen, hunting for letters, finding words together or having children read signs at the grocery store.

Keep Reading Aloud

Reading aloud is timeless. no matter your child’s age, there is tremendous power in reading aloud together. As a child becomes a fluent reader, take turns reading aloud to each other. Reading aloud creates a bond between adult and child. it provides opportunities to share in adventures, predict outcomes and analyze characters. Continue to read aloud stories that may be too difficult for a child to read independently but will generate the opportunity for in-depth discussion. Reading aloud is a gift that all parents can give. it provides an opportunity to bond and a routine that parents and children will enjoy. And best of all, it’s never too late to give this gift. Start today. it will make the world and your home a better place. Judy Kent is director of admissions at Academy at the Lakes. Fore more information, visit www.academyatthelakes.org.

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education

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What’s Happening

Year of the Girl

In celebration of its 100th anniversary, Girl Scouts of the USA has proclaimed 2012 Year of the Girl in an effort to shine the spotlight on girls and the issues they face nationwide. Do you know a girl in elementary, middle or high school in west central Florida who is doing extraordinary things — excelling in school and making a positive impact in her community? Starting this month, you can nominate her to participate in a photo shoot and have her story featured in Tampa Bay Parenting as well as receive a prize. For more information or to nominate an Extraordinary Girl, visit www.tbparenting.com/yearofthegirl.

Win an Adventure

Tell us why your family deserves a break and you could be named Tampa Bay Parenting’s Family Most in Need of an Adventure. The winning family will receive a prize package that includes:

• Four Busch Gardens/SeaWorld Fun Cards (valid at both parks through Dec. 31) • $100 in SeaWorld or Busch Gardens money to spend at the park of your choice • The opportunity to write for the Busch Gardens blog site (up to nine times in 2012)

The winning family also could earn a feature in our April issue. Five runners up will receive a family-four pack that includes four single-day admission tickets to Busch Gardens Tampa and SeaWorld Orlando (valid through Dec. 15). Ten runners up will receive Busch Gardens and SeaWorld family gift bags. For more information or to enter, visit www.tbparenting.com/familyadventure Feb. 1 through March 15. And don’t forget to visit www.buschgardenstampabay.com or www.seaworldorlando.com to sign up your kids age 5 or younger for the free SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Preschool Pass, good for admission at both parks throughout 2012.

Cookies for St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital

February is a time to cherish the ones you love. Purchase a Valentine cookie from any participating Panera Bread bakery-cafes from Feb. 1-14 and 100% of the proceeds will be donated to St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital. St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital is known throughout the southeast as a leader in pediatric heart and cancer care, and boasts 80 pediatric specialists, representing 25 medical and surgical disciplines. Visit www.paneratampa.com to learn more.

‘Beat the Heat’ Chili Cook Off

Ierna’s Heating & Cooling will host its first annual “Beat the Heat” Chili Cook Off from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 18. This free, family fun event at the new Ierna’s Heating & Cooling headquarters, 18843 U.S. 41, Lutz, will feature live music, a bounce house, drawings and five chili competitions! The chili contest entry fee is $20 (proceeds will benefit a local family in need) and only 150 contestant spots are available. A $75 prize will be awarded in four categories, with a grand prize of $500 for the “People’s Choice!” Email lorant@iernaair.com to enter. Visit www.iernaair.com, call 813-948-6355 or check the company out on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube or LinkedIn to learn more about its community work.

Tampa Bay NEDA Walk

On Feb. 25, Bailey Monarch and High Hopes in High Heels will host the second annual Tampa Bay NEDA Walk at Al Lopez Park, 4810 Himes Ave. in Tampa. The walk aims to raise awareness on eating disorders and funds for the National Eating Disorder Association. Last year’s inaugural walk made NEDA history with more than 350 walkers and over $33,000 raised. The inspiration behind the Tampa Bay NEDA Walk is Bailey Monarch, a local teenager who recovered from anorexia and began planning the first walk when she was just 16. She is now 18 and thriving at Vanderbilt University in Nashville. To register or donate, visit www.fighteatingdisorders.com.

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education

“The personal connection allows each of our children to excel individually.” - The Chiaramonte Family

2331 Collier Parkway Land O’Lakes, FL 34639 PK3-Grade 12

This year, give your children the gift of an Academy education. Call today to schedule a personal tour.

www.AcademyAtTheLakes.org

813-909-7919

The Academy Experience. Extraordinary preparation for college and for life.

February 2012

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Extraordinary girl Madison Lynn, 12, is in the seventh grade and plays for the Lady Bandits Travel Softball Organization. Since joining the Girl Scouts at age six, she’s taken advantage of all that the national organization offers, including opportunities to help local charities, shelters, facilities, and most importantly, Girl Scout Cookies!

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

by anGela arDOlInO

Sharing tales of leadership, community and hope.

What are your aspirations for the future?

i want to play softball for any college, but probably the University of Florida would be my first choice. I want to grow up to be a teacher like my mom, except i want to teach kindergarten.

What is your favorite way to relax?

At a young age, she has already learned the importance of serving her community.

Hanging out with my friends, spending time practicing softball or jamming out to music.

What makes you happy?

If you could change the world in one way, what would it be?

Softball makes me happy; to be out there playing on weekends and practicing with my team on the weekdays is awesome. When i am on the field it seems to take my mind off anything else that happened either earlier that week or just anything that i happen to be dealing with. When I step on the field it’s only me and the game.

Who is your biggest inspiration or role model?

My dad is my biggest role model because he is so outgoing. no matter who he is talking to, he always makes them feel comfortable. He is one of the reasons that i wanted to do FitTrack. He is very involved at the FishHawk Sports Complex, and i know how much he has done for the park so i hope that this will be able to give back to him in an indirect way.

i know that world peace sounds so common and kind of lame, but i have a lot of friends who have a parent in the military who has either been deployed for long periods of time or moving around every two years or less. if world peace meant that all military parents could come home, then that’s what i would want to change in the world. i can’t even imagine having only one parent at home!

What is your favorite experience?

My favorite thing to do with my family is to go to the beach.

i love camping because i get to bond with my fellow troop members and enjoy roasting marshmallows and freezing or sweating until you fall asleep. The only experience that has come close to any camping trip is staying over at Lowry Park zoo, sleeping with the manatees and enjoying two private, backstage tours after closing time and before breakfast.

What advice do you have for girls your age?

Tell us about your community projects.

What is your favorite thing to do with your family?

Always stay true to yourself. Don’t try to change to fit in; it doesn’t work. Be yourself no matter who you are with.

What do you think kids can do to make a difference in their community? Kids just need to find something that they are passionate about and find a way to use that passion to help the community. it will make helping the community that much easier because when you are doing something that you love, it makes the work easier, and it makes it seem much more fun!

Our first project was our Bronze Award project when i was in fourth grade. My troop, Troop 279, used money we raised at local garage sales, bake sales, and most of our cookie money from the previous year to buy everything needed to buy a full garden for a place called Steppin’ Stone Farm. Steppin’ Stone Farm is a Christian residential teenage girls’ program that helps troubled teenagers get back on the right path. The girls that come stay a minimum of one year to ensure a long lasting change. We built a garden around the flagpole they have in the middle of the farm.

in Girl Scouts, a Silver Award project is a step up from a Bronze Award. instead of being a troop project you must do this project either individually or with up to three other troop members. For my Silver Award project, Madison Jung and i are working to complete FitTrack 2012. FitTrack is going to be a fitness track around the FishHawk Sports Complex where we both play travel softball. We always see community members using the 1.3-mile jogging trail that already encircles the park. We thought about how we could involve the park and the community in our project. We then came up with the idea of putting permanent workout stations around the track. it has been a long and difficult experience that has challenged us to come up with 10 sponsors. We have had to overcome the shyness we had of speaking to adults we were unfamiliar with, and we have had to speak in front of audiences of up to 40 people. Right now we have six sponsors and are looking for four more at $1,500 a piece and are hoping to have them by Feb. 2 because we are looking to install the 12 stations Feb. 10-12. These stations, once installed, will last up to 50 years, no rusting. it has been a challenging, yet rewarding experience that we know will serve the community for many years to come!

What message do you want to share with other girls and families? Girl Scouts is an awesome program that helps you connect with your community and other girls. you could meet your new best friends through Girl Scouts. i did. And now Madison Jung and i are the best of friends. We do almost everything together, and this project has brought us closer than ever. it gives us just another way to connect with one another, another way to spend time doing something that we love. Girl Scouts gives you so many great memories. if you are not involved in Girl Scouts, you should seriously consider joining a local troop. To nominate an Extraordinary Girl, visit www.tbparenting.com/yearofthegirl.

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Madison Lynn

Madison at the FishHawk Sports Complex in Lithia. Photo by Kymberly Boswell Photography

February 2012

TBParenting.com

north hillsborough

................................................................................................................... carrOllwOOD, cITrus park, luTz, new TaMpa, ODessa, TeMple Terrace, wesTcHase

Adams Middle Students Draw on Talent, Earn Kudos

dates:

All month, various times • Zumba 2012 Heat up your fitness routine with a class through Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation at centers in Apollo Beach, Gibsonton, Riverview, Ruskin, Thonotosassa, Plant City, Valrico and Tampa, among others. Cost is $5-$6 each. For schedule, call 813-6353500. www.hillsboroughcounty.org/parks

Six Adams Middle students placed at county-level among 1,000 entries in the PTA’s Reflections art contest

Congratulations to six students at Adams Middle School who recently received awards as part of the Hillsborough County Parent-Teacher Association Reflections contest, an early stage in the National PTA’s larger arts recognition scholarship program. Students submitted their pieces across a diverse mix of media, including photography, literature, music, dance, video and visual arts, in conjunction with this year’s theme Diversity Means. Adams Middle, 10201 n. Boulevard, Tampa, forwarded 35 entries to the Hillsborough County PTA for judging, and six winners from Adams placed in the county competition among a pool of 1,000 entries. Those students are: • First Place: Lilly Shaffer (Photography / Diversity Means Beautiful Music) • Second Place: Maggie Parrish (Photography / Breaking the Mold) • Third Place: Bricson Linares (Photography / The Fruits of Change) and Jacob Bruno (Visual Arts/ The Old Adage) • Honorable Mentions: Claire Morrison (Film Production/ you Represent Diversity) and Grace Whitehurst (Photography/ Grace From the Heavens) First, second and third place finishers will next represent Hillsborough County at the state level with winners from that contest moving on to compete nationally.

Meet the Newest Addition on the Serengeti Plain Busch Gardens Tampa Bay recently welcomed a baby female reticulated giraffe. The newborn calf, weighing 127 pounds and measuring 5 foot 7 inches, was born to father Jafari and mother Tesa, who previously gave birth to four other calves at the park. This addition brings Busch Gardens’ reticulated giraffe population (giraffes featuring a net-like pattern of spots) to 18.

The new baby giraffe at Busch Gardens weighed in at 127 pounds and measured about 67 inches.

Mother and baby are being monitored closely by zoo staff to ensure proper nursing and growth and should return to join the other animals on the Serengeti Plain by March or earlier. A giraffe’s gestation period is 15 months with the new baby nursing for one year. Visit www.buschgardens.com to learn more.

Feb. 2, by appointment Free Autism Screenings Get answers and facts on autism during this complimentary screening offered by Dr. Kinsler & Associates, 3262 Cove Bend Drive, Tampa. Office will screen ages 2-22. Advance registration required at 813-443-5311. www.kinslerpsychology.com Feb. 3-4, 10-12, various times Murders in the Heir Help choose an ending for this murder mystery production by MAS Community Theatre at Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa. Shows: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. Cost: $12 members and $16 nonmembers in advance; and $14 members and $18 nonmembers on day of show. www.carrollwoodcenter.org Feb. 8, 8:30 a.m. • IDS Open House Take a tour of Independent Day School-Corbett Campus and enjoy a light breakfast during this event at the prek3 through eighth grade school, 12015 Orange Grove Drive, Tampa. Reserve a spot at jmorrow@idsyes.com or call 813-961-3087. www.idsyes.com Feb. 24-26 & March 2-4, 9-11, 8-10 p.m. Bus Stop Catch a performance of this William Inge classic about weary bus travelers connecting at a roadside diner in Kansas City at Omar K. Lightfoot Center, 10901 N. 56th St., Temple Terrace. For tickets, call 813-983-1710. www.masquetheatre.net Feb. 25, 6:30-11 p.m. CDS Unveiled Masquerade Ball Glam it up for a night of fine food, music and bidding to benefit Carrollwood Day School Tickets are $75 for the event at the A La Carte Event Pavilion, 4050 Dana Shores Drive in Tampa. www.carrollwooddayschool.org

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south hillsborough

................................................................................................................... apOllO beacH, branDOn, lITHIa, rIvervIew, ruskIn, sOuTH TaMpa, TaMpa, valrIcO, fIsHHawk

Nominate an Outstanding Youth The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners is seeking nominations to recognize young people who are excelling through its youth Excellence and Achievement Awards program or the yEA! Awards. nominations will be accepted through Feb. 3 for both middle and high school students who stand out in any of these categories: leadership, demonstrating a positive impact on others in an ongoing endeavor, such as sports, academics or the arts; success despite difficult odds, overcoming tremendous personal difficulty to attain success and a positive impact on others; and volunteer or community service, allocating discretionary time to help others or complete a project that has bettered the community. The yEA! Awards nomination form can be submitted online at www.hillsboroughcounty.org/ bocc/awards/nominationForms/yea.cfm or printed and mailed to the Hillsborough County Communications Department, 601 E. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, FL 33602, or faxed to 813-2768695. nominations must be received by close of business Feb. 3. The yEA! Awards were created in 2010 to recognize Hillsborough County students who are making a difference in their communities. Students honored should demonstrate initiative, innovation and a commitment to themselves and others, while pursuing excellence in some leadership capacity, whether through academics, community service, athletics, performing arts, conservation or another area. The yEA! Awards will be presented at a county commissioners meeting in March. Last year’s winners were from Stewart, Randall and Mann middle schools and Freedom and Leon King highs. Visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/bocc/about/awards.cfm and click on yEA! or call 813272-5314 for more information.

Prepare for a Fiesta On Feb. 25, the ybor City Chamber hosts the 65th annual Fiesta Day, a celebration of the cuisine, culture and heritage of Latin immigrants who settled ybor City. Families are invited to enjoy food, fun and entertainment from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Seventh Avenue. Admission is free. This year’s festival features a youth Stage, an opportunity to sample Latin cuisine at Sabor de ybor and the popular Flan Fest, in its ninth year and hailed as the only one in the world. Visitors can sample the creamy dessert when the competition returns to the ybor City Saturday Market from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Centennial Park. Flan Fest hosts its annual Flan Bake-Off with 40 contestants competing for the Top Flan in Tampa Bay. Judges will start tasting at noon with winners announced at 2:30 p.m. for traditional and non-traditional categories. The top winners in each category earn cash prizes, a future judging slot and bragging rights. The Flan Fest event serves as a fundraiser for the ybor City Saturday Market, a nonprofit organization. For more information about this year’s Fiesta Day and its various events, visit the ybor City chamber’s website at www.ybor.org or call 813-241-8838.

dates: Starts Jan. 31 and Feb. 1, 10-11 a.m. Tunes for Tots Drop off the little ones for an interactive musical experience at the Florida Academy of Performing Arts at Music Showcase, 402 Oakfield Drive, Brandon. Ages 3-4 can learn about rhythm and basic musical concepts with two 8-week programs held on Tuesday or Wednesday. Cost is $100. www.musicshowcaseonline.com Feb. 1, 9 a.m. Academy of the Holy Names Open House Go to an informative prek and kindergarten open house at the independent, Catholic school at 3319 Bayshore Blvd. Learn about the school’s educational programs and meet staff members. www.holynamestpa.org Feb. 4-25, 1:30-3:30 p.m. On-Camera Workshops for Kids Sign up for this four-week workshop series for students in grades 6-12 at the Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center, 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, downtown Tampa. Students will learn acting exercises, improv techniques, industry terminology and audition tips. Cost is $200. www.patelconservatory.org Feb. 5, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Hyde Park Fresh Market Browse more than 70 vendors the first Sunday monthly at Hyde Park Village in S. Tampa. Listen to live music and shop for gourmet foods, organic products, plants and handmade arts and crafts. Free entry and parking. www.hydeparkvillage.net Feb. 18, 6:30 p.m. • Voices Rising Concert Celebrate the history of gospel music at Smith Black Box Theater at Tampa Prep, 727 W. Cass St. Evening features the voices of Four Mo Tenors and the students of both Tampa Prep and Academy Prep Center. Cost is $75 per person. 813-251-8481. www.tampaprep.com Feb. 25, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. • Safe Baby Express Enroll in this six-hour safety class at St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital Pavilion, 3030 W. MLK Blvd., Tampa. Learn about infant and child CPR, car seat safety, SIDS, home safety, childproofing and coping skills. Includes an inspection of one car seat per couple. Cost is $65. Call 813-443-3078 to register. www.stjosephswomens.com

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north pinellas

..................................................................................................................... clearwaTer, DuneDIn, easT lake, OlDsMar, palM HarbOr, safeTy HarbOr, TarpOn sprInGs

Open Your Heart for UPARC at Fashion Show The UPARC Foundation will hold its ninth annual Open Your Heart for UPARC Fashion Show and Luncheon on Feb. 23 in Inverness Hall at Innisbrook Resort & Golf Club, 36750 U.S 19 N., Palm Harbor. This year’s event, presented by Georgette’s and The Shoe Salon and Bright House networks, has a theme of “Bling on Broadway.” The fashion show and luncheon will feature celebrity models and hosts, fashions from Georgette’s, a high-energy show, boutique items for sale, drawings and a lunch. The event boutique opens at 10:30 a.m. with the fashion show and luncheon at noon. Individual tickets are $75 per person and table reservations are $750. UPARC is a not-for-profit community organization providing quality services to people who have developmental disabilities. For tickets, contact UPARC at 727-797-8712 or email info@ uparcfoundation.org

Dunedin Family Brings Muddy Fun and Fitness to Pinellas Kids of all ages will not only be allowed but encouraged to play in the mud at the Turtle Hurdle race at 9 a.m. Feb. 19 at the Walter Fuller Soccer Fields, 2800 75th St. n. in St. Petersburg. Exclusively for kids ages 4 and older, this event is just the latest in a series of fitness events and races designed by TriKidsRock. Founded in August 2011 by Dunedin parents Jim and Eve “ironMom” Barrett, TriKidsRock promotes exercise and family-bonding events. Eve, a business owner and avid racer, frequently participates in race events, triathlons and even her first IronMan last June. While taking part, she and her husband realized there was a void in race events specifically designed for kids. “There are 23 mud obstacle course races for adults throughout the state, and my husband and i were Last year’s Turtle Hurdle was a sold-out event. participating as a team with our kids along to watch. They would always ask ‘can we go through the course?’ you have to be 21 to go through it, and so they would say ‘it’s not fair that you get to do this, we want to do it.’ And i looked at my husband and said, ‘there’s nothing for kids,’ she says. “if it’s this popular for adults, why would they not have something for the kids, who love to play in the mud. My husband looked at me and said ‘you’re right, let’s put one on.’ And we sold out four days before our first event’s race day.” The first Turtle Hurdle held in Dunedin in October was designed primarily for ages 4-10 but the second event will also have a second section available for older kids up to age 14. it will feature 15 muddy obstacles on a ½ mile closed course. Following the event, each child will receive a medal for participating along with a turtle charm of TucKeR the Turtle, the TriKidsRock mascot. There also will be a post-race breakfast for everyone. in addition to the Turtle Hurdle last year, TriKidsRock held a Hot Cocoa Run in December for families and children to run together. The group also hosted weekly family runs on Tuesdays and Thursdays in Dunedin and Mondays in Safety Harbor. An inaugural kids’ triathlon is in development for the summer. Kids can participate in the Turtle Hurdle for $20 with online registration available at www.IMathlete. com (under Other Events in St. Petersburg). Visit www.trikidsrock.com to learn more.

dates: Feb. 3-4, various times The Wizard of Oz See the Dunedin Showcase Theatre perform this Frank L. Baum classic in its first kids’ show at Dunedin Community Center, 1920 Pinehurst Road. Tickets are $5. Shows: 7 p.m. Friday and 2 p.m. Saturday. Call 727-812-4530. www.dunedinshowcasetheater.org Feb. 4, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Touch-A-Truck Bring the kids for a chance to climb aboard firetrucks, construction vehicles and other large trucks and equipment at this free event at Safety Harbor City Park, 740 Seventh St. S. Call 727-724-1572 to learn more. Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Gulfport Tuesday Fresh Market Browse more than 30 vendors of fresh produce, breads and cheeses, handmade soaps and arts and crafts during this year-round open air market along Beach Boulevard near 29th Avenue South. Free admission. 727-366-4086. Feb. 10, 7-10 p.m. Evening Extraordinaire Glam it up at this red carpet event with sumptuous food and wine tastings at Inverness Hall, Innisbrook Resort & Golf Club, 36750 U.S. 19 N., Palm Harbor. Evening includes live and silent auctions. $35 per person. For reservations, call 727-784-4287. Feb. 11, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Annual Trashy Treasures Art Sale Browse gently used art and art supplies at Dunedin Fine Art Center, 1143 Michigan Blvd. Preview party is 6 p.m. Feb. 10, with $5 admission to DFAC’s Contain It installation and Eat This food truck rally. www.dfac.org Feb. 21, 5-11 p.m. Dunedin Mardi Gras Parade & Festival Pack up the family for fun along Main Street between Louden Avenue and Broadway downtown. Check out the floats and take home souvenir beads. Free admission. www.dunedinmardigras.com

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south pinellas

....................................................................................................................... larGO, pInellas park, seMInOle, sT. peTe beacH, sT. peTersburG, Treasure IslanD

Learn How to Keep Kids Safe on the Internet Parents can sign up for an educational program that provides them the tools and information to supervise tweens’ and teens’ use of the internet, smartphones and other technology. Heart Song, a nanny placement and caregiver service, is hosting a 2½ hour workshop “Keeping Our youth Safe Online” from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Feb. 18 at ViR-Feathersound Learning Facility, 3703 131st Ave. n. in Clearwater. Topics will include social networking, online games, cyberbullying, texting, sexting and instant messaging. Heart Song President Jill Wilson will share tips for understanding the lingo kids use to communicate online and strategies to keep kids safe in cyberspace. The workshop will feature a roundtable discussion at 12:45 p.m. for participants to share stories and ask questions. Presentations begin at 11 a.m., with a 30-minute lunch break (lunch and a beverage included with registration). The cost is $15 for members of Heart Song and $20 for nonmembers. Visit www.heartsong.cc or call 813-347-9883 for more information.

Former Buc Joins Shorecrest as Varsity Football Coach Shorecrest Preparatory School recently announced that former Tampa Bay Buccaneers player Dave Moore has accepted the position of varsity football coach.

dates: Feb. 4, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Open House Admiral Farragut Academy Learn about the preK-12 program for this college preparatory school during this event at 501 Park St., St. Petersburg. Tailgate before the big game with food, games and campus tours. www.farragut.org Feb. 4, 11 a.m. • The Velveteen Rabbit Join a curious rabbit, wise old horse and a rapping jack-in-the-box at Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive. Tickets: $7.50 adults, $6.50 children and $22 family four-pack. 727-587-6793. www.largoarts.com Feb. 10, 6:30-10:30 p.m. Second Annual Wine Auction Sip and bid on foreign and domestic wines and other live auction items while enjoying a gourmet dinner at this benefit for the Museum of Fine Arts at 255 Beach Drive. N.E. Tickets are $225. www.fine-arts.org Feb. 16 – March 4, various times The Love List Catch this hilarious production as two men concoct a list of their most desirable attributes in a mate. Performed at Venue Theatre, 9125 U.S. 19 N., Pinellas Park. Cost is $15. Portion of proceeds to benefit Neighborly Care Network/Meals on Wheels. Shows: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. www.venueactorstudio.org

Shorecrest Athletic Director Tripp Welborne welcomes Dave Moore to the school.

A graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, he played in the NFL for 15 years as a tight end, full back and long snapper and playing with the Miami Dolphins, Buffalo Bills and Bucs, where he spent 12 years. Moore retired in 2007 to become a color analyst for the Buccaneers Radio network. He also hosts his own fishing program on the SunSports network, One Moore Catch, with wife Annmarie. The couple has two children who attend Shorecrest. “For over a decade, Dave has had a profound impact on the football community in the Tampa Bay area, and we are very excited and fortunate that he is passionate about touching our students’ lives every day as a coach and mentor,” says Tripp Welborne, Shorecrest athletic director and former Minnesota Vikings player. “Dave is a great asset to Shorecrest athletics, and we are thrilled to have him as part of our Shorecrest family.”

Feb. 17, 6-8:30 p.m. • Family Art Night Bring the family for dinner, art and a movie about a selected artist at Bank of America’s Children’s Learning Center, 719 Central Ave., downtown St. Petersburg. Pizza and drink included. Cost: $40 for two adults and two kids; $5 each additional child. www.moreanartscenter.org Feb. 18, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Highland Recreation’s Think Pink Drop off the girls grades 4-6 for a night of games, crafts and talk at Highland Recreation Complex, 400 Highland Ave., Largo. Each month features a theme with February focused on friendship. Cost: $10 residents and $12.50 nonresidents. Call 727-518-3016. www.playlargo.com

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February 2012

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February 2012

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pasco

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

DaDe cITy, lanD O’ lakes, new pOrT rIcHey, pOrT rIcHey, TrInITy, wesley cHapel, zepHyrHIlls

‘Hairspray’ Shimmies onto the Show Palace Stage The Broadway musical comedy Hairspray runs through Feb. 26. at the Show Palace Theatre, 16128 U.S.19 in Hudson. Audience members can celebrate the music and moves of the 1960s as the story of a big girl with big hair and big dreams. Sara DelBeato plays the show’s heroine Tracy Turnblad, a role made famous by Ricki Lake in the 1988 John Waters film. Scott Daniel plays crooning teen heartthrob Link Larkin and Matthew McGee steps into the shoes of such showbiz heavyweights as Divine, Harvey Fierstein and John Travolta as Tracy’s plus-size mother Edna Turnblad.

Actors Sara DelBeator and Scott Daniel serve up the ’60s moves onstage at Hudson’s Show Palace Theatre.

no stranger to the bay area arts scene, McGee has appeared at The Show Palace, freeFall Theatre Company, American Stage, St. Petersburg Opera Company and more. Audience favorite Troy Lafon also hits a milestone with Hairspray serving as his 60th show performed at the Show Palace. The 24-person cast also includes ilexis Holmes, an Alonso High student, in her first professional role as Little inez.

On Sundays, the doors open at 1 p.m. and the show starts at 3 p.m. Friday and Saturday night performances begin at 8:00 p.m., and doors open for dinner and cocktails at 6 p.m. Tickets are $49.50, plus tax, for dinner and show. Show only is $38.45 plus tax. Call 727-863-7949 or visit www. showpalace.net to learn more.

Fair Ridin’, Rockin’ and Livestockin’ into Town Ridin’, Rockin’ and Livestockin’ is the theme Fair Chairman Tracy J. Thompson and his committee dreamed up for the 65th annual Pasco County Fair scheduled to run Feb. 20-26 at the Pasco County Fairgrounds in Dade City. “This year’s theme was chosen because it reflects many aspects of our county fair – from the rides and entertainment to the many livestock shows that we hold that week,” says Thompson, who has served as the annual fair chairman for the past 10 years. To fulfill the rockin’ aspect, this year’s entertainment lineup includes Rockin’ with Elvis, a performance by Billy “Elvis” Lindsey. This year’s fair will also offer plenty of ridin’ for fairgoers of all ages. Riding of a different kind takes place Feb. 24-25 as the annual Pasco County Fair PRCA Championship Rodeo takes center stage followed by even more riding – Demolition Derby style – on Feb. 26. Both the rodeo and demolition derby are included with fair admission. Livestock shows include hogs, steer, heifers, dairy cows, goats, sheep, rabbits, poultry and more. For fair hours, ticket info, daily schedules and the entertainment lineup, visit www.pascocountyfair. com or call 352-567-6678.

dates: Feb. 4, 6 p.m. • Annual Gong Show Benefit Get ready for an evening of live entertainment at the Jewish Community Center, 9841 Scenic Drive, Port Richey, to support the Alzheimer’s Family Organization. Event features gong show, door prizes, Chinese and silent auctions, drawings, dinner from Carrabba’s Italian Grill. Tickets are $25-$40. www.alzheimersfamily.org Feb. 12, 3 p.m. • Florida Orchestra Pops Concert The orchestra presents A Night in the Tropics, with swinging tropical jazz music from Brazil, Hawaii, Greece and more at the Center for the Arts, 30651 Wells Road, Wesley Chapel. Tickets are $20. 813794-8772. www.cfawesleychapel.com Feb. 17, 7-10 p.m. Anti-Valentine’s Day Dance Drop off the teens for this holiday dance party at the Land O’ Lakes Public Library, 2818 Collier Parkway. Call 813-929-1214 for details. www.pascolibraries.org Feb. 17-19, various times • Withlacoochee Living History Primitive Art Festival Sponsored by Pasco County Parks and Recreation and the St. Pete Astronomy Club at Withlacoochee River Park, 12449 Withlacoochee Blvd., Dade City, visitors can see flint knapping demonstrations and watch artists carve arrow and spear points. Admission is $2 per person or $5 per car (kids 12 and younger free). Call 352567-0264 to learn more. Feb. 23-26 International Combined Driving Event Watch skilled carriage drivers and their horses compete in dressage, marathon and cones at this four-day international combined driving event at 17951 Hamilton Road, Dade City. Admission is $10 per person daily (kids 12 and younger are free). www.littleevergladessteeplechase.org Feb. 23-26, March 2-4, 9-11, various times City of Angels Catch this musical comedy spotlighting the personal struggles of screenwriters during the 1940s when it hits the Richey Suncoast Theatre stage, 6237 Grand Blvd., New Port Richey. Shows: 8 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday. www.richeysuncoasttheatre.com

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Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

February 2012

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around town

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

TO see MOre pHOTOs vIsIT facebOOk.cOM/TaMpabayparenTInGMaGazIne

Ken Walters’ Roosevelt Rowing Regatta: The inaugural Roosevelt Rowing Regatta was a tremendous success with more than 350 attendees enjoying brunch and picnic fare, listening to the sounds of the Lisa Casalino Quartet and watching rowing competition between teams from Drake, George Washington and Rutgers universities as well as local high schools Academy of the Holy Names, Berkeley Prep, Tampa Catholic and the Stewards Foundation. The second annual Roosevelt Rowing Regatta is set for Jan. 5, 2013, in historic Plant Park at the University of Tampa. Left, Friends and family of table sponsor Blake Casper. Right, Max and Ken Walters with Vanessa, Gail and Hannah Solivan.

Ken Walters’ Roosevelt Rowing Regatta: Left, Sarina Leihy is overjoyed to meet Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn. Right, Mike, Matthew, Jade and Janet Starkey.

Stageworks’ Annual Masquerade Ball: Left, Jerry Slutzky, Helen Techler, and Bill and Vicki Paul. Right, Mark Sena, Andrea Graham and Charlie Hounchell of Smith and Associates.

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Stageworksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Annual Masquerade Ball: Left, Denise White and Russell Rhodes of Fox 13.

Women of Wesley Chapel: Founder and Editorial Director Angela Ardolino and Loran Tripp of Iernaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Heating and Cooling.

Women of Wesley Chapel: Tiffanie Kellog, Jenny Knodt, Carol Goebel, Janet Arnold, Diane McKelvey, Jeanine Shevlin McLeod, Jacky Manuel, Pat Douglas, Beatriz C. Hiller, Ghada Jadallah, Elisabeth Butterfield, Mitze McBride Richeson, Carrie Fleming Kukuda, Barbara Padilla Oliver, Deborah Ingargiola Yoerg and Rosemary MacKeen.

Second annual Roof Top Eve in South Tampa (Photos by Michael Blitch Photography): For the second year in a row, friends gathered to ring in the new year at Roof Top Eve.

Second annual Roof Top Eve in South Tampa (Photos by Michael Blitch Photography): Left, Monica Varner of Elan Event Studio and Managing Partner of Timpano Steve Hickey. Right, Heather Pavliga, Nicole Deloach Hubbard, Malloy Lacktman, Founder and Editorial Director Angela Ardolino and Susan Pancholy.

February 2012

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february calendar

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fOr MOre evenTs, vIsIT TbparenTInG.cOM

using math and science and creating a motion picture book. www.mosi.org 6 & Older

events/festivals

My Doll and Me Series Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25, 10-11:30 a.m. Let your little one take her American Girl doll on a journey through time at the Tampa Bay History Center, 801 Old Water St. Event features crafts, games, snacks and a special tea party. Cost: $55 members and $60 nonmembers. www.tampabayhistorycenter.org 7-12 Iceploration • Opens Feb. 2 Check out a new, enchanting half-hour ice show at Busch Gardens with ice skating, dazzling artistry and costumes inspired by the animal world. Shows held daily at the Moroccan Palace Theatre. www.buschgardens.com Everyone Ability Awareness Day Feb. 4, 1-4 p.m. Hosted by Chelsea’s Voice and Shane’s inspiration, this event aims to raise awareness for people of all abilities. At Gadsden Park, 6901 S. MacDill Ave., it features local entertainment, a resource fair and drawing. 619-253-6928. Everyone Suncoast Hospice Ball Feb. 4, 6:30 p.m. – midnight Dance, dine and mingle during this fundraiser at the Renaissance Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, 501 Fifth Ave. n.E., St. Petersburg. Evening features. Tickets are $300. www.thehospicefoundation. org/ball Moms, Dads

$2 Target Tuesdays • Feb. 7, 2-6 p.m. Pack up the whole family for a visit to the Glazer Children’s Museum, 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza, downtown Tampa, and enjoy a special admission price courtesy of Target. www.glazermuseum. org Everyone USF Men’s Basketball Feb. 8, 15, 26, various times Catch some Big East college hoops action as USF’s men’s basketball temporarily moves into the Tampa Bay Times Forum during Sun Dome renovations. The Bulls take on Pittsburgh (7 p.m. Feb. 8), Villanova (7 p.m. Feb. 15) and Cincinnati (noon Feb. 26). Tickets are $10-$100. www.tampabaytimesforum.com Dads

is $220. www.lowryparkzoo.com Date Night Think Fun! • Feb. 10, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Elementary students can explore science, flexing their brains and tickling their funny bones at MOSi, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. Kids should bring two snacks and wear clothing that can get messy. Cost: $25 members and $35 nonmembers. www.mosi.org 4-9 Healthy Hearts Weekend Feb. 11-12, various times Join the Glazer Children’s Museum, 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza, for a weekend all about keeping your heart healthy! Learn about healthy snack and simple exercises to keep your ticker in tiptop shape. Free with museum admission. www. glazermuseum.org Everyone Elmo’s Warm and Fuzzy Valentine’s Day

Be More Awards Feb. 9, noon Join WEDU to celebrate west central Florida’s nonprofits during this event at the A La Carte Pavilion, 4050 Dana Shores Drive, Tampa. Registration is at 11 a.m., with lunch and awards at noon. Cost is $50. www.wedu.org Moms, Dads

Party • Feb. 11, 12:30 p.m. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Elmo and friends in Busch Gardens Sesame Street Safari of Fun. Swap Valentines with characters and enjoy a delicious buffet. Cost: $22 plus tax for adults and $15 plus tax for kids ages 3-9. www. buschgardens.com Everyone

Get the Message Feb. 4-May 6 Create cave art, use sign language, learn about Morse code and more at this new exhibit that is all about communication at Glazer Children’s Museum, 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza, downtown Tampa. www.glazermuseum.org 4 & Older

Florida State Fair Feb. 9-20, various times Hit the rides, check out livestock exhibits and overindulge in fair fare during this 12-day event at the Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 U.S. 301, Tampa. www.floridastatefair.com Everyone

Idea Zone! Weekend Workshops Feb. 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 25-26, various times Visit the technology playground for a creativityexploring workshop at MOSi, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. February activities include perfume and potion-making, using high-tech tools to make heartfelt gifts, designing clothing patterns

Valentine’s Day Date at the Zoo Feb. 10-12, 10:30 a.m., noon and 1:30 p.m. Enjoy a unique couple experience at Tampa’s Lowry Park zoo, 1101 W. Sligh Ave. Get a behind-the-scenes look at two of the zoo’s most famous couples – the African penguins and clouded leopards. Enjoy lunch, the rest of the zoo and receive an “Adopt an Animal” package. Cost

Rock n’ Roll St. Pete Half Marathon Feb. 12, 7:30 a.m. Join the Sunset Rotary Club in downtown St. Petersburg to raise funds for the Rotary Clubs and the Children’s Dream Fund. Registration is $105 through Feb. 5. www.childrensdreamfund. org Moms, Dads A Total Eclipse of the Heart • Feb. 14, 6 p.m. Dine under the stars inside MOSi’s planetarium for a romantic Valentine’s Day. Start the night with treats then enjoy a light dinner. Hear ancient love stories and create a signature scent. Cost per couple: $80 members and $100 nonmembers. Register at 813-987-6000. www.mosi.org Date

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

Night Tampa Bay Food and Wine Experience Feb 16-19, various times Head over to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in downtown Tampa for a weekend of savory dishes and renowned wine and spirits from local and national chef and culinary personalities. www.unleashyourpalate.com Moms, Dads Cryo-Cell Information Session Feb. 18, 9 a.m. you’re cordially invited to learn about storing stem cells from Cryo-Cell international. Child care will be provided. After the presentation, a facility tour and brunch will be served. RSVP by Feb. 10 by calling iliana Belinc at 562-334-6282 or email ibelinc@cryo-cell.com. Keeping Our Youth Safe Online Feb. 18, 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Join Jill Wilson of HeartSong for this informative workshop on internet safety at the ViR Feathersound Learning Facility, 3703 131st Ave. n. in Clearwater. From gaming to social media the presentation will provide parents with the tools and information they need to supervise their children’s online activity. Cost is $15 for HeartSong members and $20 for nonmembers. Lunch will be provided. To register visit www. heartsong.cc or call 813-347-9883. Moms, Dads Sant’Yago Knight Parade Feb. 18, 7 p.m. Watch this popular illuminated parade as it travels along Seventh Avenue and 23rd Street in ybor City. Enjoy music, dancing, costumed participants, floats and loads of beads. Be sure to check out the new ViP hospitality area and family tents. www.knightparade.com Everyone Ready for School Feb. 21-23, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Join Bright Horizons for Ready for School to learn more about its curriculum, meet teaching staff, and hear what parents have to say! information sessions will take place at Bright Horizons’ Hunter’s Green on Feb. 21, Seven Oaks on Feb. 22 and Tampa Palms on Feb. 23. For more information, visit www.brighthorizons.com. To Life: Celebrating 20 Years Feb. 23, 6:30 p.m.

Attend the Florida Holocaust Museum’s annual fundraiser at the Mahaffey Theatre, 400 First St. n., St. Petersburg, to mark the museum’s 20th anniversary. Evening features live entertainment, a silent auction, cocktails, dinner-by-the-bite, desserts and coffee. Tickets are $150. www. flholocaustmuseum.org Moms, Dads 2012 Run for Kids • Feb. 25, 8 a.m. Stop by Baywalk in downtown St. Petersburg and Help Ronald McDonald House of Tampa Bay. Register for a 5k, 10k, Pelican Mile or Kids Fun Run. www.runforkids.com Everyone NEDA Walk • Feb. 25, 10 a.m. Lace up your sneakers for this second annual event at Tampa’s Al Lopez Park to raise awareness and research funds for the national Eating Disorders Association. Check-in starts at 9 a.m., with program at 9:30 a.m. and walk at 10 a.m. Cost: $20 adults, $10 children age 12 and younger and $60 families. 727-422-3668. www. nedawalk.org Stars and Pars Celebrity Gala and Auction Feb. 25, 7-10 p.m. Chat with local and national celebrities at Tampa Bay History Center, 801 Old Water St., downtown Tampa, to kick off the 30th annual Celebrity Golf Classic for the Children’s Home. Enjoy fine food, complimentary cocktails, entertainment and live and silent auctions. Cost is $65. www.childrenshome.org Moms, Dads American Pickers • Feb. 25, 8 p.m. Hear tips and stories from Frank Fritz and Danielle Colby, stars of The History Channel’s popular show about turning trash into treasure, when they take the stage at the Mahaffey in St. Petersburg. Evening includes videos clips, outtakes and a drawing. Tickets: $32.50-$67.50. www.themahaffey.com Moms, Date Night Music, Music, Music! Weekend Feb. 25-26, various times From classical to jazz, Glazer Children’s Museum will have music for you. Head over to 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza for this musical extravaganza that will move your dancing feet. Free with museum admission. www.glazermuseum.org Everyone

Beauty and the Beast Sunday, March 18 1 p.m. Ferguson Hall

You’ll be enchanted by this classic tale about a prince cast under a spell of ugliness and loneliness. With the help of Belle, misunderstood herself, this prince just might break the spell by learning to love and be loved in return.

Build the foundation for a vivid imagination! TICKETS AND INFORMATION:

813.229.STAR (7827) STRAZCENTER.ORG OUTSIDE TAMPA BAY: 800.955.1045 MEDIA SPONSORS:

Events, days, dates, times, performers and prices are subject to change without notice.

Oscar Night America • Feb. 26, 6:30 p.m.

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Go all Hollywood for the ultimate Oscar party at Tampa Theatre, 711 n. Franklin St., downtown Tampa. Walk the red carpet, enjoy a pre-show reception and watch the live telecast. Evening includes cash bar and complimentary popcorn, soda and coffee. Cost: $40 with official program and $30 admission only. www.tampatheatre.org Date Night Great American

for two. www.moreanartscenter.org Moms, Dads Worlds Apart Feb. 12-26, various times Check out an antiquities collection at the Tampa Museum of Art, 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza. Explore mythology, history, gods and mortals from 2500 B.C. to A.D. 500. www.tampamuseum.org Everyone Downtown Dunedin Craft Festival Feb. 18-19, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Browse the work of local and national artists along Downtown Dunedin’s Main Street. This 20th annual event features 100 crafters showcasing folk art, pottery, paintings, handmade jewelry and more. Free admission. www.artfestival.com Everyone

film Big Miracle • Opens Feb. 3 See this heartwarming tale based on a true story about a reporter and his ex-girlfriend on a quest to save a family of gray whales trapped by ice. Drew Barrymore stars. Rated PG. Running time is 107 minutes. Check local theaters for showtimes. 8 & Older

Bake Sale • Feb. 29, various times Host your own school or neighborhood bake sale as part of the official launch of this national fundraiser presented by Domino Sugar, C&H Sugar and Duncan Hines. Raise funds for the Share Our Strength no Kid Hungry Campaign to end childhood hunger in America. www. greatamericanbakesale.org/signup Everyone

art Family, Friends and Fun Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24, 6-9 p.m. Bring a towel, your favorite beverage and a sense of humor as teachers at the Morean Center for Clay, 420 22nd St. S. in St. Petersburg, guide students through the basics of wheel throwing and hand-building Cost: $30 per person or $50

Looney Tunes • Feb. 5, 3 p.m. Reminisce with Bugs Bunny, Foghorn Leghorn and Elmer Fudd during this feature-length collection of popular Warner Bros. cartoon classics at Tampa Theatre, 711 n. Franklin St. Cost is $11. www.tampatheatre.org Everyone Lady and the Tramp • Available Feb. 7 Relive the joy of puppy love as Walt Disney Studios re-releases this animated classic. Running time is 76 minutes. www.wdshe.com 5 & Older Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace 3D Opens Feb. 10, various times Channel your inner Jedi Knight as the George Lucas prequel returns to the big screen in 3D. Ewan McGregor, Liam neeson and natalie Portman star. Rated PG. Running time is 136 minutes. Check local theaters for showtimes. 8 & Older Flying Monsters Starts Feb. 17, various times Explore the beauty of pterosaurs with wingspans of up to 40 feet in this soaring film by naturalist David Attenborough, showing at MOSi’s iMAX

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Gladys Knight • Feb. 17, 8 p.m. Enjoy the sweet, soulful sounds of this soul legend as she brings her pop, R&B and adult contemporary hits to the Mahaffey, 400 First St. S., St. Petersburg. Tickets: $50-$75. www. themahaffey.com Date Night

Dome Theatre, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. www.mosi.org. 6 & Older

theater & dance ‘night Mother Through Feb. 5, various times Winner of the Pulitzer Prize in 1983, this high stakes drama, presented by Stageworks Theatre, 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd. in Channel District, is a beautiful yet devastating depiction of a mother and daughter in crisis. With humor amid vibrant emotional honesty, it is a penetrating examination of helplessness, eloquent and touching. Tickets are $24.50. www.stageworkstheatre.org Moms, Dads

racial tension and a desire to change the world when this Tony Award-winner takes the stage at Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater. Tickets: $40-$60. www. rutheckerdhall.com 12 & Older Valentine’s Dance Concert Feb. 18, 7pm Warm your sweetie’s heart with this production staged by Ballet Masters Guilfoil and Crocker at 6020-B 126 St. n. in Largo. The evening will include contemporary works and a sneak preview of Guilfoil Ballet Theater Company’s “Fire”. Tickets are $10 and can be reserved by calling 727-216-6989. Everyone

Les Miserables Through Feb. 12, various times Experience the spectacle of this legendary musical celebrating the human spirit at the Straz Center, 1010 n. W.C. Macinnes Place, Tampa. Tickets start at $38.50. Feb. 1 is Broadway Family night. www.strazcenter.org 8 & Older Ballet Fleming Feb. 2-4, 7:30 p.m. Catch the Florida premiere of Philadelphia’s popular ballet company with an exciting evening of rock n’ roll ballet at Mainstage Theatre, HCC ybor Performing Arts Building. Cost: $15 general admission and $5 seniors/students. HCC students and staff are free with Hawk Card. www.hccfl.edu 8 & Older Memphis Feb. 7-12, various times Travel back in time to underground dance clubs of the segregated South in this compelling musical about forbidden love, personal sacrifice,

Improvised Shakespeare Company Workshop • Feb. 18, 2-3:30 p.m. Sign up for this Patel Conservatory workshop to learn about and work with the style, themes and language of William Shakespeare. Cost is $15. To register, call 813-222-1002. www.patelconservatory.org Moms, Dads

music Bands, Brew & BBQ All Month, various times Visit Busch Gardens or Sea World Orlando and jam during weekend concerts (included with admission). SeaWorld features artists such as Foreigner and Trace Adkins. Busch Gardens hosts Bret Michaels, Lynyrd Skynyrd and more. www.seaworld.com www.buschgardens.com Date Night Celtic Woman: Believe • Feb. 14, 7:30 p.m. Get swept up in the enchanting sounds of this international phenomenon as its angelic vocalists and haunting violinist perform at Carol Morsani Hall in the Straz Center. Tickets start at $44. 813229-7827. www.strazcenter.org Everyone

Kelly Clarkson • Feb. 21, 7:30 p.m. Sing along to one chart-topper after another as the original American idol takes center stage at Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater. Clarkson will sing old favorites and new tracks from her latest Stronger and will be joined by special guest Matt nathanson. Tickets start at $65.50. 727-791-7400. www. rutheeckerdhall.com 10 & Older Diana Ross • Feb. 24, 8 p.m. Spend an evening with an American music legend when she comes to St. Petersburg’s Mahaffey for a night of melodies and Motown memories. Tickets: $65-$100. www.themahaffey. com Moms, Dads

HAVE AN EVENT? E-mail submissions, preferably at least a month in advance, to calendar@tbparenting.com for consideration.

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You are Cordially Invited to Learn about Storing Stem Cells* Saturday, February 18, 2012 Presentation starts at 9:00 a.m. after the presentation, a facility tour and brunch will be offered. Cryo-Cell International, Inc. 700 Brooker Creek Blvd. Suite 1800 Oldsmar, FL 34677

* Childcare will be provided | Space is Limited

Preserving your newborn’s umbilical cord blood stem cells is a healthcare investment that may one day save your baby’s life. Cord blood stem cells have been used to treat nearly 80 diseases in over 25,000 transplants worldwide. We invite you to find out why Cryo-Cell is one of the leading private Cord Blood Banks for cryogenically preserving your newborn’s cord blood stem cells.

Only $1,449* when you enroll in our Cord Blood Service and mention code TOH2 Please RSVP by February 10th Call Iliana Belinc (562) 334-6282 ibelinc@cryo-cell.com www.cryo-cell.com RE

*This offer is valid for new clients only in the US and Puerto Rico. It cannot be combined with any other promotional offers and is not valid for clients who have previously enrolled in services with a pending birth. Includes processing, testing, courier and first year of storage. Valid until March 18, 2012.

BSI STER

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