February 2013 by Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

Know Your Heart

Heart-Healthy Events and Screenings During Heart Month

Visit KnowYourHeart.org to find an event near you. Nothing is more important than your heart health. At BayCare, we give you the tools and tips necessary to help you live a happy, healthy life. Take time during Heart Month to start living heart healthy by learning more about your health and how you can live heart strong. Heart Healthy Fairs Free Healthy Heart Screenings Include: ■ Blood pressure ■ Body mass index ■ Blood glucose Additional discounted screenings are available at some locations, including: ■ EKG ■ Carotid artery ultrasound ■ Glucose and cholesterol ■ Peripheral vascular screening Plus, get information on issues such as sleep disorders, stroke, wellness, and innovations in heart and vascular health. Topics will vary by location. Educational Opportunities In addition to healthy heart screenings, events will feature activities including physician seminars, heart-healthy cooking demonstrations, fitness and nutrition tips and more. Visit KnowYourHeart.org to find an event near you.

BC1300130-0113

Registration and prepayment are required. Space is limited. Register today:

(888) 499-8896

contents

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FEBRUARY 2013 • 6TH YEAR • 10TH IssUE

features 10 reimagine that Reuse, recycle, repurpose...beautifully 14 Old SchOOl Why it’s still important 18 taleS FrOm the heart Adoption stories that inspire 20 happy hOme Breathe life into your living space

26 cry me a river What’s a dad to do 28 it’S Our hiStOry Heritage Project a labor of love for many

30 extraOrdinary girl KC Shelton

every month 6 letter FrOm the editOr 10 hOme & garden 13 educatiOn 22 aFter SchOOl/Summer 24 What’S happening 37 health and WellneSS 32 nOrth hillSbOrOugh neWS 34 SOuth hillSbOrOugh neWS 36 nOrth pinellaS neWS 38 SOuth pinellaS neWS 40 paScO neWS

42 arOund tOWn 43 calendar OF eventS

On the cover: Cover Kid Winner Ajalon Pruitt at Annie’s Garden Shed in Lutz. Photograph by: Amy Pezzicara, www.PezzPhoto.com

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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.

Voted Tampa Bay’s Best Summer Camps!

We offer camps for animal lovers, coaster enthusiasts, future veterinarians and everything in between. Day Camp: K-12th • Resident Camp: 5th-College

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

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letter

Angela L. Ardolino Founder and Editorial Director David E. Estevez Editor at Large Kimberley Brown Smith Associate Editor Contributing Writers Amy Gall Lindsay Perez Mark Heller Paul Guzzo Chris Kuhn Calendar and Neighborhood Stories Elyse Cohen Graphic Artist Susan Margolis Marketing Director Sandy Parrish Sales Director Sarah Coss Public Relations Todd A. Varde Director of IT Social Moms Rachel Long Lisa-Marie Leihy Ellie Hirsch

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FROM THE EDITOR

For the past 13 months, we’ve been proud to feature young women who are making a difference in communities across the bay area in celebration of the Girl Scouts year of the Girl. These young women are strong and eager to make the world a better place. And our final Extraordinary Girl, KC Shelton, is no exception. Read her story on page 30. Starting in March, Extraordinary Woman will return, featuring women who are making Tampa Bay the best it can be. As we mark Black History Month, Laura Harris introduces us to the St. Petersburg African American Me celebrating the new year with Sue, San dy, Lindsay and Cla ra. Heritage Project and shares the story of Gwendolyn Reese who is spearheading the project originally envisioned by St. Petersburg Mayor Bill Foster. Learn more about this exciting undertaking on page 28. Many people know that i’m a believer in the “it takes a village” approach to family and kids, and i’m always looking to hear opinions on the subject. My friend Paul Guzzo, who i met through the Hillsborough County Arts Council, is a writer and stay-at-home dad who’s currently working on a new book. He’ll be contributing a funny column about his experiences as a first time father of three. Check out the first of many on page 26. Each year we highlight local families who’ve taken the leap of faith and adopted a child through the foster care system. This month, we’ll share the stories of three families who’ve adopted through the Children’s Board Heart Gallery of Tampa Bay. Their stories will move you and inspire. Meet the Curtis, McClinton and Sakales families on page 18. Additionally, i’m excited to be a sponsor of this year’s Be Mine Benefit, on February 7, which will raise funds for the organization. We’ve officially set the date for this year’s Summer Splash at the Glazer Children’s Museum. On April 6, we’ll gather the best summer camps, collegiate programs, retail shops, health and wellness providers, learning centers and so much more to help your family make the summer full of fun and exciting adventures. Visit www.summersplashtampabay.com if you’d like to participate as an exhibitor or sponsor. Enjoy your sweethearts. Happy 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

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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

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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 2007-2013 by Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine. All rights reserved. Comments and suggestions are always welcome.

Reach Your Goal Weight.

GET YOUR LIFE BACK!

Before

O FF

After 65 Million years DINOSAURS ARE BACK! Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo is home to 22 dinosaurs that move, blink and roar. Practice paleontology at the “I Dig It” fossil dig site, speed down the “Velocity-Raptor” slide, and collect a relic from the Shop-a-saurus gift shop.

DinoQuest Open Daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Experience the Dinos in a whole new light at Dino Nites select Fridays and Saturdays. Presented By

New Year. New Babies! Celebrate Two BIG Bundles of Joy

Join Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo as we celebrate our newest and cutest animal residents – a baby African elephant and a baby pygmy hippopotamus. Both babies and their mothers can be seen on exhibit daily in the Safari Africa habitat area at the Zoo.

Baby Pygmy Hippo Born November 15th Share the care at the Zoo by purchasing baby elephant and hippo adoption packages. Your symbolic adoption will help to provide expert care and enrichment for the Zoo’s animals for one year. These packages make great gifts for all occasions! Connect with the Zoo!

Baby African Elephant Born December 23rd

Visit LowryParkZoo.com

BROADWAY SERIES SPONSOR:

MEDIA SPONSOR:

25 YEARS

MARCH 12-17 Tickets: 813.229.STAR (7827) â&#x20AC;¢ STRAZCENTER.ORG Outside Tampa Bay: 800.955.1045 Group Sales (10+ get a discount): 813.222.1018 or 1016 Events, days, dates, times, performers and prices are subject to change without notice.

reimagine that

........................................ BY MIcHElE HIlEY

REUsE, REcYclE, REpURpOsE...BEAUTIFUllY it all started several years ago with a hutch. I wanted one; specifically, large and solid wood. i checked every retailer i could think of. not only were they out of my budget, but i didn’t really love any of them. Most were not well made, not the right color or the wrong style. We’re an average family with an average income and common sense. i wasn’t about to overspend on something that wasn’t even perfect. i look at a $4,000 hutch and all i see is braces, groceries, and school clothes, you know? Determined to find the perfect hutch, I started scouring second hand shops and Craigslist. That’s when i found it; solid wood, circa 1960s, and the most heinous dark stained wood you’ve ever seen. it was like a giant black hole, sucking all the light right out of the room. “We can only buy it if you won’t give me a hard time about painting it, because it’s got to be painted,” i said. “Of course you can paint it,” my husband Ken agreed, until we got it home. “it’s made by Willet, solid wood, really nice,” he said. “i don’t think you should paint it.” A two-week battle ensued. i won.

rei-

After a few weekends and some elbow grease, the heinous hutch was transformed into a gorgeous French country cottage piece. With a little creativity and skill (and great products), you can reimagine any outdated piece into something current that works with your home décor. A stodgy old dresser

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becomes a glamour-puss with a fresh coat of hot pink paint. A dark, dated desk turns into a stand-out focal point when enrobed in rich red. The possibilities are endless, limited only by imagination. There is a sense of romance in knowing a piece has witnessed the passage of time and has been used by generations before you. When we reimagine an item, we’ve not only given an old piece new life, we’ve recycled it. Each piece gets a fresh start, including a thorough cleaning and deodorizing. Every drawer is restained to look like new. Our products of choice include environmentally sensitive paints such as milk and chalk paint. We avoid toxic chemicals and latex paints, making our pieces perfect for children’s rooms and people sensitive to chemicals.

Our goal is to provide gorgeous pieces of furniture that embrace the past for a reasonable cost. So how do you know what colors/ techniques/paint to use? There is no right or wrong when it comes to color. if it makes you happy and you love it, it’s right. Just make sure the color works inside your home. Remember, it’s only paint! if you don’t love it, paint it again! While my husband typically has a plan in mind and sticks to it, i tend to just jump in and start painting. Getting started is easy. i learned by doing (with lots of trial and error). There are lots of great classes available locally and online. i prefer to learn on my own, so books are my best friends. Read up before you pick up a brush if you aren’t sure what you are doing! Stencils can be a wonderful creative element if you aren’t an artist; embrace them if you don’t have advanced drawing skills. Remember, to look for pieces that are in rough shape, discarded, broken, or otherwise in need of some TLC. Search everywhere from second hand stores to the internet. if a piece could be great but needs major repairs and you aren’t handy, pass it up. you don’t want to end up with a garage full of pieces you don’t have the skills to complete. And keep in mind that it’s only paint. When the paint is stripped away, the wood is still there underneath. if you’re going to tackle painting

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an antique or vintage piece, i’d suggest doing a little research online first just to be sure it’s not valuable as-is. This is especially important with pieces that have original paint already in place.

You Can Do It!

From Our

HEART YOURS! To

February 1st -14th

100% of every Valentine Cookie sold at participating Panera Bread bakery-cafes will benefit the Heart Center at:

Just keep in mind to do it properly. There is so much more involved than just slapping on paint! The process starts with selecting a quality piece of furniture. That huge hutch i bought? Lugging it home was not fun, nor was storing it in the garage. if you aren’t fortunate to have a studio, remember you will be painting in the heat/cold/rain and it sometimes stinks. You might find some unsavory things residing in your new purchase (we’ve found everything from dead animals to dirty laundry). Once you’ve gotten it home and cleaned it, you’ll need to prepare the surface for paint, paint it, and seal it. it’s a lot of work, but it can be quite rewarding. if you want to tackle your own project, our advice to you is to start small. if you paint a small side table and have a miserable time doing it, you will be glad to have discovered you hate painting before you tackled your kitchen cabinets!

We love what we do. it’s good for the environment, involves our whole family, and the creative process feeds the soul. And what could be better than that. Happy Painting! Michele Hiley and her husband own Stiltskin Studios where they rescue discarded, unloved, and just plain ugly furniture. To learn more about Michele or to purchase one of her furniture pieces, visit www.stiltskinstudios.com.

www.panera-tampa.com

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................................................................................................................................................................ education

Invest in Your Child’s Future

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REDUCED PRESCHOOL TUITION

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PRE-K (AGE 3) THROUGH GRADE 12

5101 1st St. NE., St. Petersburg, FL 33703 727-456-7511 • www.shorecrest.org

Expect the Best…From the Beginning ............................................................................................................................................................................................... Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

February 2013

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old school wHY IT’s sTIll IMpORTAnT ...................................... BY MARk HEllER

Parents today have both the great luxury and the great burden of having many educational options for their children. you can choose your local public school or venture into the world of school choice: magnet schools, charter schools, online courses, dual enrollment, private schools (both parochial and independent) and, of course, home schooling. Each of these options has various attributes, strengths and challenges that every family must weigh. i believe in the power of schools. Online learning and home schooling may work for some, but the experience of school, especially the educational experience in a great school, is transformative. The true goal of school is not simply a score on a test, a diploma, or a degree; it’s the nurturing of a well-rounded human being, a citizen who is prepared to meet all of life’s challenges. This product is best developed through the many experiences that animate life in school each day and over a period of years. Only about half of the power of school lies in the three Rs: reading, writing and arithmetic. The true power of an educational experience lies in what exists beyond those Rs. The education of young people is a human-intensive endeavor. it is best accomplished through real-time personal contact with teachers of all kinds who care about transmitting important lessons to their students.

The best educational experiences offer crucial elements that are much more difficult to find in online or home-school experiences. These experiences are deeply personal and revolve around relationships. School involves meeting and interacting with many people who are not part of your family, people who are different from you in many ways and yet also similar to you in other ways. in a great educational experience, each child must interact with a diverse set of individuals. Each has a different set of perspectives and expectations. Each child must learn how to communicate with them, how to collaborate and how to function as a unique individual within structures and routines that are not made solely by that child or that child’s parents. it’s all great training for the workplace of the future and for citizenship. in school, children learn how to be independent from their parents (a major goal of childrearing). Finding your way and learning to work outside of your family is a vital life skill, college skill and, ultimately, workplace skill. School is a great venue for children to learn persistence and resilience. Great classroom experiences are often conversations. These dialogues are very hard to replicate in online and home-school settings. They work best when they happen in the context of face-to-face relationships. They teach students how to think, how to learn, how to respect others and how to grow in a world that is populated with others. Much of the work of school is individual. But much

more is about how the individual learns to make his or her way in a sea of others. in school, students develop networks and relationships outside of their families that are there to help them when they stumble or need support. School experiences involve real-time responses to your learning, actions, mistakes and choices. School experiences provide real-time relationships and consequences that are more genuine than the stand-ins provided in the virtual world. But more than that, in school students are able to learn not only from their own mistakes but from the mistakes of others. This is part of the power of community to both teach and nurture. Each school has its own unique culture. Great schools promote a culture where each student is deeply valued, deeply connected and learns important lessons in character, collaboration, communication, critical thinking, creativity and citizenship. Ultimately, it all depends on the humans involved. it takes good people to grow good people. And that’s why a great school, one populated with many good people, can make such an important difference. it’s why school matters. Mark Heller is head of school at Academy at the Lakes, a PreK3 – 12th grade independent school in the north Tampa area. For more information, visit www.academyatthelakes.org.

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EXPECT MORE from your school!

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More Commitment More Care More Focus

Why Choose Woodmont Charter School? • NO TUITION • Before and after care • Meaningful parental involvement • Personal learning plans • School uniforms • Certified dedicated teachers

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Join us for an Information Session

Tuesday, February 5, 2013, 6 p.m. Tuesday, February 19, 2013, 6 p.m.

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for Grades K-8

Online: www.WoodmontCharter.org In Person: 10402 N. 56th St., Temple Terrace, FL 33617

WOODMONT

CHARTER SCHOOL

Phone: 813-708-1596 ............................................................................................................................................................................................... A member of the Charter Schoolls USA family of schools .

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This Year, Give the Gift of a Great Education Accepting Applications for the 2013-2014 school year! Schedule a personal tour today and see first-hand why hundreds of families choose Academy at the Lakes.

813-909-7919 Academy’s Early Childhood Experience. Celebrating 20 Amazing Years

PreK3 through High School

The foundation for lifelong achievement.

2331 Collier Parkway, Land O’Lakes, FL 34639 | www.AcademyAtTheLakes.org | www.facebook.com/Academyatthelakes

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A curriculum that’s as brilliant as your child. Primrose School of South Tampa 1700 West Kennedy Boulevard Tampa, FL 33606

813.876.1000

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Proprietary Balanced Learning® System Music, Spanish, Computer Technology Dietician approved meals and snacks provided

Educational Child Care for Infants through Private Kindergarten and After School

............................................................................................................................................................................................... BayCompany. Parenting Magazine 2013 AllTBParenting.com Each Primrose School is privately owned and operated. Primrose Schools and The Leader in Educational Child Care are trademarks of Primrose SchoolTampa Franchising ©2013 Primrose SchoolFebruary Franchising Company. rights reserved.

tales from the heart StorieS of adoption that inSpire THE CURTIS FAMILY NAME

.................................................................. By Tammy Curtis

On April 14, i attended an event sponsored by the Junior League of Tampa – it was a match event, where children ready to be adopted had the chance to meet prospective adoptive parents. it was set up as an outdoor carnival. The children rotated one way while the adults rotated the other. When it was my turn to rotate to the petting farm, i held the gate open for a little guy behind me, who vehemently said, “no thank you.” it broke my heart a little to think that he was afraid of the farm animals, so after a few minutes, i saw him leaning on the outside of the gate. i approached him with a really soft rabbit and asked him if he’d like to pet it. it was a really great moment with this boy; then the buzzer rang for everyone to rotate. He left without me getting his name.

i was blessed that God chose two amazing parents for me – Jeff and Eloise Curtis. My parents were 15 when they met and 16 when they got married and had me. They were married 35 years when i lost my mom. Such an amazing example of what unconditional love truly looks like. i’m the oldest granddaughter of over 30 grandkids. i taught many of my cousins how to swim, took them roller skating, and was always the babysitter in the family. Family was never something i took for granted. i was told when i was in my late 20s i’d never be able to have children but still tried in vain. i knew that adoption would be my best option to be a mom.

A little while later, i found my Family Adoption Specialist Shannon and asked her if the boy she was telling me about earlier in the week was there. it was at that moment that my whole world stood still. She turned around and said, “Ronderik, i have someone i’d like for you to meet.” it was my bunny boy! From that moment on i stayed very close to him. We played laser tag, danced, made some crafts and had lunch together. His case manager and several other folks who knew him sat down and spoke with me about his background. Prior to attending the event – i asked God to let me know if and when i found my little one – and there was no question in my mind that it was my bunny boy. i don’t want to embarrass him, but this is exactly how it happened and i think it’s an awesome story. On May 3, at exactly 12:51 p.m., i got the call

that I’d officially been matched with Ronderik. On May 23, I finally got to see him again for the first time since the event. We met at the mall with his case manager. We talked about what he was doing in school and had some lunch and frozen yogurt. He thought it was pretty cool that we both wore red, black and white and matched perfectly. After that meeting, we met for the next month under supervised visits. On June 20, my 40th birthday, i received the best present when i was told we were approved for unsupervised visits. We had a dinner and movie date and he bought me a beautiful plastic tiara with a 40 on it. We continued to visit and add in overnights, with him moving into our home on Aug. 3. He is doing great in school and has made some great new friends. He plays the trombone in the school band and is also taking piano lessons. On his 15th birthday, Nov. 27, we finalized the adoption – with an amazing packed courthouse — and followed it with an Elvis-themed birthday/finalization day party in the ballroom of the Temple Terrace Golf & Country Club. My son has changed my life in ways i never imagined. He is absolutely the light of my life. He is the first thing I think of when I wake up in the morning, and the last thing i think about when i’m going to sleep. Becoming a parent has made me look at life through my son’s eyes. He has taught me how to be happy. RD’s light shines so brightly and everyone who meets him instantly falls in love. Knowing that i have the opportunity to change his life, just as he’s changed mine, is the best gift God could ever bestow upon me. Ronderik lived the first 14½ years of his life in the system. I am his 13th and final home.

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to operating as a family. not free from the hiccups that life can bring but able to deal with them as they come. it was summer of 2011 when we finished the adoption process. Jalen is in his second semester of college and his future is brighter than ever. i would say to adoptive parents out there that you are not alone. i am a living testimony that adoption is not easy but it is well worth it in the long run.

...SON ............................................................ By Jalen Gibson My now adoptive family attended the same church and my case manager knew that i had been looking for a mentor because i was struggling with everyday life and in need of a lot of help with basic things.

FATHER AND... ............................................................

So i began going to visit on a frequent basis. i would visit during my school breaks and that By Albert McClinton soon turned into weeks at a time. Following my freshman year of high school, i was given the i always thought i would have children of my opportunity to move in with my family and i own and live a “normal” life. Little did i know. declined simply out of the fear of change. When i married my wife, she had three children. i decided that i could never take their father’s in summer 2010 after my sophomore year, i place, but i could be the best dad that i knew. moved in with them and that was a tremendous adjustment, coming from a situation where i After my wife and i had been married for a few was pretty much allowed to do what i wanted to years, we were approached by a friend who knew do into a structured situation. While there were Jalen and thought that i would be a good mentor some rough spots in the beginning, i consider for him as he and i both have cerebral palsy. We it one of the best decisions of my entire life. were encouraged to watch the Wednesday’s Child i have been shown nothing but love, care and segment on a local news station. After watching, motivation, which has propelled me to new my wife and i both knew that Jalen would one broader horizons. My parents pushed me to get day come to live with us. the absolute best out of me. i did not always agree with the way it was done, but it really He would come to our home during school helped me in the end. breaks and spend time with us. Eventually he came to live with us. in hindsight, i realize that On June 20, 2011, my adoption was finally i did not prepare my boys for the transition we complete. it was a long, tedious process and were all getting ready to experience. many people worked tirelessly on my behalf to make sure my transition was as smooth and easy In the beginning it was difficult. I knew to a as possible. it taught me a tremendous amount certain degree Jalen was somewhat afraid to live of patience and to have faith and believe with us. Knowing this, i tried to tread as lightly that there is always someone who will see as possible even though i believe in order and the absolute best in me no matter what. structure. As a father, i had to ask myself, “How Just the fact that people were willing to go do you deal with a young man who clearly has through so much to ensure my well-being emotional wounds from a past that he did not means so much. choose? How do you teach that young man skills that will help him to be successful in the MOM real world? How do you make him feel accepted LAMAYA’S ..................................................... in the family? How do you not lose your other By Christen Sakales children in the process?” The biggest question was how in the world can i get him to come out My husband of 14 years and i have wanted of his room for anything other than food and to to adopt since before we got married. Mike go to the bathroom? was adopted as a baby. i have loved working with children in the foster care system as a After several months, we seemed to gain fluidity licensed clinical social worker and therapist.

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The time was right for us to adopt 2½ years ago. While attending the state required MAPP classes, we would spend time looking at the pictures in the Heart Gallery. One day a beautiful girl with big brown eyes and a bright smile was new to the gallery. i read about her and showed her picture to my husband. i knew right away that God was telling me that Lamaya was our little girl. We inquired about her through our agency. The biggest question that was posed to us was whether we were OK with the fact that Lamaya has a serious heart defect. Our answer was absolutely. We trusted that God has an amazing plan for our daughter and us. Don’t misunderstand. We did think seriously about what the medical diagnosis meant. We did research on it and spoke with a cardiologist at length, but throughout that process we were very at peace with our decision. The hardest thing about adoption is the effect of loss and trauma on the child. yes, children want to be loved and need forever families. yes, you should seriously consider adoption for your family. But also you should understand that it’s not balloons and flowers every day. Parenting any child is difficult. Parenting a child who has experienced profound loss is hard in different ways. To all the future adoptive moms and dads out there who are considering this privilege – please do. Consider changing your life – not theirs. it is the best decision i’ve ever made. We met our daughter when she was 4, and i’ve never laughed so much, been so proud or loved this deeply. i’ve never truly appreciated what it takes to love with your whole heart despite past hurts until i watched my baby girl do it. She’s my hero – i tell her that she is the bravest girl i know. i have the most wonderful daughter on the planet. She is sweet, smart, playful, vivacious and, above all, she loves people with her whole heart. i hope someday i’ll be able to love as fully as she does. i’ll keep working toward that. in the meantime, i get the sweetest title of all – what my baby’s friends call me — Lamaya’s mom.

Happy Home Breathe life into your living space

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Heart Bowls

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Aluminyze

Dress up bland walls and impress guests by infusing an image right onto a lightweight, solid sheet of recyclable aluminum. $60+ Aluminyze.com

Pure Living

These toxin and chemical free cookware lets you safely cook family meals. Set of 10 $80 Wearever. com

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Milestones Poster Track baby’s height,

weight and more with this poster that includes growth rulers, colorful graphics and charts and stickers. $45 StrangeBirdy.com

Alexandra Ferguson With a complete line of pillows in all shapes and sizes, you’ll find the perfect accent piece to make your living room or bedroom standout. $129 AlexandraFerguson.com

Coyuchi Made from organic cotton, this rustic linen is cozy, breathable and perfect for every season. It’s neatly bound in ivory flannel and finished with rounded corners. $158+ Coyuchi.com

Sage Lily Yoga Mat

Go doubly zen with this yoga mat that is also a work of art. Mat includes a bonus yoga workout download. $30 Gaiam.com

Common-Sense Pest Control Completely revised and up-

dated, this indispensable guide walks you through reclaiming your garden sans the harsh chemicals. $17 Taunton.com

February 2013

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summer camp

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STRENGTHENING OUR COMMUNITY TOGETHER 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 Y will have a meaningful, enduring impact right in your own neighborhood.

4 steps to take this year

Contact your local Y to make a gift or volunteer your time.

www.ymcatampabay.org

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ZOO-NIQUE EXPERIENCE

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February 2013

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What’s Happening

My Doll and Me

Drawing from the popular American Girl book series, ages 6-12 are invited to travel through time with their favorite dolls on select dates at the Tampa Bay History Center, 801 Old Water St., downtown, during My Doll and Me. American Girl dolls highlight historical events and eras, from America’s colonial period to World War II. Each character features books and activities exploring important events in American history. At the history center, children can peek into the past with crafts, games, snacks and hands-on gallery experiences that reflect the time period or theme presented each week. American Girl dolls are not required for participation. The Kaya doll is featured on Feb. 2, with Kit on March 9 and Julie on April 6. Space is limited. Visit www. tampabayhistorycenter.org to register.

BE MINE, Diamonds & Cigars – A Heart Gallery Benefit

This inaugural event benefitting The Children’s Board Heart Gallery celebrates forever families and spreads awareness on the need for adoptive parents. The Tampa Bay History Center plays host to Diamonds & Cigars on Feb. 7 – an evening of music, dance, food and cocktails inspired by Tampa’s Latin-influenced history. The Heart Gallery was developed to photographically capture the spirit and poignant natures of children in foster care. Now this innovative organization is an adoptive parent recruitment model that has grown exponentially, expanding to dozens of states and cities since its inception in 2001. Visit www.heartgallerytampabay.org to learn more about The Children’s Board Heart Gallery or to purchase tickets to Diamonds & Cigars.

NEDA Walk

On Feb. 16, Bailey Monarch and High Hopes in High Heels will host the third annual Tampa Bay NEDA Walk at Al Lopez Park, 4810 North Himes Ave., Tampa. The walk aims to bring the community together, raise awareness about eating disorders and raise funds for the National Eating Disorder Association. Last year’s Tampa walk made NEDA history with more than 400 walkers and more than $60,000 raised! Monarch, a local teenager who recovered from anorexia, organized the first walk when she was just 16. Now 19, she attends Vanderbilt University in Nashville. For general questions or volunteer and sponsorship opportunities, email fighteatingdisorders@tampabay.rr.com. Visit www.fighteatingdisorders.com to register or donate.

The New Shanghai Circus

On Feb. 16, astonishing athletes will stretch the limits of human ability in this spellbinding show at the Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive. Fearless performers with boundless energy defy gravity and execute breathtaking feats while bringing you more than two thousand years of Chinese circus traditions. If it’s humanly possible, Shanghai’s acrobats, jugglers and contortionists do it with spectacular flair. These acrobats have earned a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records for their amazing feats of jar-juggling, plate-spinning, hoop-diving and aerial ballet. Visit www.largoarts.com for show times and to purchase tickets. .

Early Childhood Council Celebration Breakfast

Join the council on Feb. 28 at Mainsail Suites Hotel, 5108 Eisenhower Blvd., Tampa, as it celebrates 30 years of providing quality services for children and families in Hillsborough County. The breakfast’s featured guest speaker is Lauren Dungy, wife of former NFL coach Tony Dungy, with Bay News 9’s Josh Linker as master of ceremonies. Established in 1983, the Early Childhood Council is among the leading early childhood organizations in the Tampa Bay area, providing information and referral services, prevention and early intervention, and training and advocacy to the community. Visit www.ecctampabay.org to learn more.

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February 2013

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he sometimes cries from the moment she wakes until she falls asleep that night.

A little thing will set her off – perhaps she wants a juice box and we don’t have any, maybe the dress she wants to wear is in the wash or she is devastated over the fact that Phineas and Ferb’s mother will not take one day away from the hair salon to find out if Candace is telling the truth about her brothers. Whatever sets my 4-year-old daughter off is obviously not the reason she is still crying 12 hours later. Something else is amiss. i have no idea what is going on in her head and, even if i did, i probably would have no idea how to make it better. i have read countless opinion blogs, articles and books on understanding daughters and have tried just about every method advised. i tried asking her why she is crying, to which she replied in between sobs, “Because i want to.” OK! i tried giving her space and leaving the room as tears poured out of her eyes, but i had to call a halt to that after an hour due to the fact that I do not have flood insurance. i tried telling her jokes, but apparently she doesn’t understand my brand of humor; her lack of laughter cannot possibly be because i am not funny. i tried hugging her to calm her sorrows, but i am pretty sure i felt her hands sneaking up my back and toward my throat, so i decided to never try that again.

to that answer was, “What?” That’s as absurd an answer as because i want to. i refused to believe that there was no concrete answer. But apparently, there is not. i have asked countless friends if their daughters also cry from sunrise to sunset and they each jumped from their seat, excited that they are not alone, and exclaimed, “yes! What is that all about? What do you do?” And then they each slumped into their seat when i explained that i was hoping that they would know. This is our fate in life. My sister is 39 and is still just as emotional around my parents. My friend Chris perhaps said it best, “Girls are like cats – we never know what goes through their minds. A cat will jump on your lap out of nowhere, let you scratch its head, and then just as impulsively bite your hand and run from the room. Boys are like dogs – dumb and loyal and easy to figure out. All a dog wants is its butt scratched and food in its bowl.” That is as poetic as it can be put. Boys are indeed simple, actually simpler than dogs. Boys smell because they are gross. They like playing in dirt because it feels gross. They like to spit because it looks gross. They love potty talk because they think that anything gross is funny. Basically, boys are just gross. And boys never get more complicated as they grow into men. The sole reason behind their actions simply changes from because they are gross to because they

want to get a girl’s attention. But girls … wow. It may be easier to figure out quantum physics than girls. i am convinced that not even girls understand girls otherwise mothers would be able to stop their daughters from crying. The understanding of girls seems to be a circle of life for males. When we are boys, we have no idea what to do with girls. When we are teens, we think we know what we want with girls but have no idea how to go about it. As young men, we parade around town with our chests puffed out and falsely proclaim that we

know everything about women.

When we become fathers, we finally admit that after all these years we still have no idea what to do with girls. i once read that nothing is stronger than the bond between a father and daughter. This has to be true. Only a strong love can enable a father to withstand the emotional torture inflicted about him by a daughter. My daughter, i love you more than words could explain – even words from a Hallmark card – but you drive me insane. Please stop crying. To learn more about what Paul Guzzo does not know about parenting, visit www.facebook.com/ TheOverNightFamilyMan.

So what am i supposed to do? Why does she cry so much? How can i make it stop? it is as confounding a question as why she feels the need to change clothes 100 times each morning. She is 4 years old! Who does she have to impress? But i’m getting ahead of myself; one problem at a time. Before i tackle clothes, i need to tackle tears. When i asked my wife why our daughter cries so much, she simply replied, “Because she is a little girl. That’s what they do.” My first reaction

cry me a river wHAT’s A DAD TO DO

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it’s our history

t. Petersburg is known as the Sunshine City and we mean that literally! St. Pete holds the title in the Guiness Book of World Records for 768 consecutive days of sunshine! While that’s great news for the travel industry, history lovers are more interested in another St. Pete gem – its black history. The St. Petersburg African American Heritage Project is a labor of love for community leaders of all races. Launched in 2012, the project chronicles the history of St. Pete’s earliest African Americans. The project will capture the story of aging residents who crossed the racial divide to make a difference in this city and, ultimately, give back to the community for the greater good of St. Pete. Gwendolyn Reese is spearheading this project. And no matter your race, this project will change your perspective of history and help you envision the past.

The project’s first order of business is a walking trail. “it will start at 22nd Street South, which was known as Central Avenue back in the day,” Reese explains. “it will head down ninth Avenue, complete with markers showing important locations, style of homes, and all that was the face of what black St. Pete was.” Reese says the project was originally the idea of St. Pete Mayor Bill Foster, a third generation St. Pete native. Reese, also born and raised in St. Pete, shares that intense love of history! She says the steering committee’s

BY lAURA A. HARRIs

African American Heritage Project a labor of love

grassroots efforts have been arduous but fruitful. A Historic Preservation Grant of $80,000 has been pledged by the state of Florida, which will serve as the seed money

for the citywide project.

Reese’s passion for the project is irresistible! Among her favorite moments: the day high school students conducted interviews with 25 local residents who have witnessed profound changes over the years. The timing of the interviews and the high school chosen were rich in symbolism as well. The interviews were done on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the students came from Gibbs High School, which in 1927 became Pinellas’ first public school for black students beyond the sixth grade. The oral histories and photographs of these senior citizens are only part of the story. “We are even going to try to get casts of their hands that can be put on display,” Reese says. And in my quest to learn more about the Heritage Project, i found a story within a story. Gwendolyn Reese grew up in St. Pete when there were park benches she couldn’t sit on, water fountains she couldn’t drink from and rules she had to follow simply because of the color of her skin.

trying to imagine what it would be like for me if someone said i couldn’t do something because i am black! i just couldn’t do it! yet, here was a woman who not only lived it, she fought against it! Reese fought for what she believed in, refusing to be judged by the color of her skin. “i knew in my heart that wasn’t right”, she said. “Even as a child, i knew a person should be judged by the content of their character (something Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. fought for).” “you know Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. died on my birthday,” Reese interjected. “My birthday just hasn’t been quite the same ever since.” i asked her how proud she is about how far African Americans have come since Dr. King marched. “it’s bittersweet,” she says. “Sweet because of how far we have come in terms of what we are able to do and where we are able to go. When i look at the way people think and act, though, there is still a racial divide.” Reese hopes this project brings the St. Pete community closer together. Reese says not only will the city of St. Pete gain from having these stories told, but the students capturing the oral histories will learn about people, places and history in a way that a textbook simply can’t teach.

“My mother would go sit in the back of the bus. i refused. i sat closer to the front. i would even turn around and wave at her and Reese and the committee have found many my brother while they sat in the back. i was a gem along the journey to preserve the history of what she calls “successful black 8,” Reese says. St. Petersburg.” Stories of people like Elder She was only 8? Let that sink in for a minute Jordan, the businessman who was born a and you’ll probably get chills! Here i was slave. He was emancipated at 15 and became

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wealthy enough to loan money to the city of St. Petersburg! The Jordan Park housing complex on 22 Street South was built on property donated by Jordan.

EARTH’S GREATEST SECRETS ARE ABOUT TO BREAK OUT!

The story of Pepper Town in northeast St. Pete, Goose Pond and “The Manhattan” are among the inspiring stories to be told. Thanks to the St. Petersburg African American Heritage Project, the past will come to life for new generations. The woman leading the charge says it’s the experience of a lifetime.

Laura Harris, left, with Gwendolyn Reese. Laura Harris, a recent transplant from Atlanta, is a multimedia journalist for ABC Action News.

IN DIGITAL 3D AND BRENDAN FRASER SARAH JESSICA PARKER JESSICA ALBA JANE LYNCH CRAIG ROBINSON WILLIAM SHATNER GEORGE LOPEZ SOFIA VERGARA AND ROB CORDDRY THIS FILM IS NOT YET RATED

OPENS EVERYWHERE THIS VALENTINE’S DAY!

February 2013

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Extraordinary girl At 17, St. Petersburg native Katherine Shelton (KC to her family and friends) is looking at colleges, Auburn in particular. And she has a lot of impressive information to share with potential schools. The junior at Lakewood High is in a magnet program that focuses on marine science and environmental studies. She also plays soccer and tennis. And if you hear something, that is probably her popping her knuckles.

What makes you happy? Why? i enjoy going down to the park near my house that has a magnificent view of the Sunshine Skyway and Tampa Bay. it’s peaceful and relaxing and just plain beautiful. i used to go down to the bay a lot when i was younger and climb the mangroves. it’s probably my favorite spot in St. Pete. i enjoy watching Gossip Girl and i like watching Modern Family and The Big Bang Theory with my dad. ice cream makes me happy. i also love horseback riding.

Who is your biggest inspiration or role model? Why? I honestly don’t have a specific role model. i admire certain people for the qualities they possess. For example, i admire teachers who are passionate about their subjects. The ones who get excited about what they are teaching and never give up on us, even when we seem not to care. i admire Michelle Obama because she is classy and caring. i am inspired by people like Dr. Teresa Greely and Dr. Angela Lodge at the USF College of Marine Science. Dr. Lodge always finds something good in everything and every situation. Dr. Greely showed me how to love oceanography and made me consider for the first time that I could work in science. Sister Joan Carberry at St. Paul’s Catholic School is another inspiration because she believed i could do whatever i put my mind to, even before i did.

What advice do you have for girls your age? Just love life; do not waste your childhood.

Have fun, enjoy the outdoors and your friends, love yourself and most importantly, stay true to who you are. Be proud of your uniqueness and always follow the Golden Rule. (Do unto others as you would have done unto you.)

What are your aspirations for the future? i would like to get my Girl Scout Gold Award. After high school, i would like to study science and eventually get a master’s and doctorate in some area of oceanography. i want to travel the world, do what i love and make a good amount of money so i can do more of what i love. i would like to be someone others look up to. i would like to change the world for the better in some big way and be put in the history books!

If you could change the world in one way, what would it be? i would make the term yOLO (you only live once) illegal. i’m so tired of everyone using it as an excuse to do stupid things. Seriously, i would like to work with other scientists to find some way to make more of our everyday activities environmentally safe.

What does Girl Scouts of America mean to you? Girl Scouts is the one place where no one judges you. you are around your peers and you can have a fun time without stressing. you just have a lot of fun having all kinds of cool experiences.

What is your favorite experience? in Girl Scouts, we were celebrating the end of year and we spent a weekend in Daytona Beach. it was really fun because we had all been together for years and we were leaving our school and troop and it was a fun way to be together one last time. Outside of Girl Scouts, my favorite experience was going to the Bahamas a few summers ago. Our family and my uncle’s family rented

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BY AngElA ARDOlInO

Sharing tales of leadership, community and hope. houses on the water in Eleuthera. The people there were nice and, even though we were clearly tourists, they made us feel like we were part of their island.

What message do you want to share with other girls and families? Support each other even when you don’t feel like it. in the end, your family will always be there for you. never forget that. My grandmother just died and i was able to see how my uncles, aunts and cousins really stuck together and helped each other get through it. it really impressed upon me the importance of family.

Tell us about your community projects. Much of my volunteer work is done through the University of South Florida’s Oceanography Camp for Girls (OCG), where girls entering high school learn about the environment and the importance of taking care of it. i was a mentor at the camp last summer. i also am president of the OCG Alumni Association. Association members test local salt and freshwater sources and share the data with scientists and researchers across the world. We also participate in cleanups and community efforts of the USF College of Marine Science Outreach and Education department. For the past four summers (and i want to do it again this summer), i have volunteered in the equestrian program at the Girl Scouts of West Central Florida’s Camp Wildwood. I and about five other girls take care of the horses and the barn and help campers learns the ropes of horseback riding. We teach them everything from how to behave around the horses and how to saddle up to riding and grooming techniques. We work from sunrise to sunset. it’s hard work but very rewarding. i am also involved in youth ministry projects at my church. We’re supposed to go a work mission camp in Tennessee this summer, and i’m really excited about that.

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KC Shelton at The Florida Aquarium. Photo by Amy Pezzicara, Pezz Photo

February 2013

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north hillsborough

................................................................................................................. cARROllwOOD, cITRUs pARk, lUTz, nEw TAMpA, ODEssA, TEMplE TERRAcE, wEsTcHAsE

Book Lovers Unite for Charity Tempus Projects hosts a unique Valentine’s-themed fundraiser “Love Lit” this month to benefit Bluebird Books and its Open Book Exchange project. The event is 6-9 p.m. Feb. 10 at the gallery, 5132 n. Florida Ave., Seminole Heights.

dates:

A silent auction for a variety of romantic books is scheduled. Some adult material will be tastefully displayed so parents may wish to leave young children at home. Attendees will also be able to peruse vintage paperbacks, create crafts and enjoy complimentary cupcakes and beverages as a DJ entertains.

Feb. 2, 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. EcoFest Celebrate green living at this annual festival at Learning Gate Community School, 16215 Hanna Road, Lutz. Activities include live music, workshops, demonstrations and organic farms and gardens with fresh produce and more. Free admission. www.learninggate.org/ecofest.html

A variety of books will be on display for the auction, including romantic literature, photography books and art catalogs.

Proceeds will benefit the Open Book Exchange, a Bluebird Books project that encourages people to share their passion for reading on a community level. Colorful handmade boxes are filled with donated books and installed in public spaces throughout the bay area, where visitors are encouraged to take a book or give a book. This fundraiser will provide support for the Open Book Exchange and the Bluebird Books Bus literary arts project. Visit www.thebluebirdbus.com/events for more information.

County Offers Access to Free eBooks and Audiobooks Did you know that the Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative has made available to local residents a large collection of contemporary and classic audiobooks and ebooks as well as music and video selections for free? Registered Hillsborough County library cardholders can access hundreds of selections 24 hours a day, seven days a week and download best-selling novels, well-known classics, self-improvement guides, and more to a computer or mobile device. Because all items are downloaded, there are no late fees and titles simply disappear at the end of a cardholder’s lending period. The service, powered by OverDrive, is available for most devices with a screen, including the Kindle, nook, Sony Reader, ebook readers, Android, BlackBerry, iPhone/iPad/iPod/ iPod Touch, Windows Phone and mp3 players, and is compatible for Windows and Mac. To download free audiobooks and eBooks, visit http://hcplc.lib.overdrive.com, browse the collection and select up to 10 items to download. After following a series of prompts, the user will be directed to install the free software for their preferred device. After that, readers will have easy access and be able to download freely. in addition to book selections, library card holders can get up to three free music downloads each week from the Sony Music Entertainment Catalog through the online service Freegal to any MP3 player, iPod, smartphone, laptop or tablet computer. Visit www.hcplc.org or call 813-273-3652 for details.

Feb. 5 & 19, 6 p.m. Woodmont Charter Information Sessions Get information about the curriculum and environment at Woodmont Charter School, 10402 N. 56th St., Temple Terrace. Learn about personal learning plans and meet members of the team. www.woodmontcharter.org Feb. 8, 7 p.m. Movies in the Park Catch a flick under the stars at Westchase’s Baybridge Park, 10020 Bridgeton Drive, Tampa. This month’s feature is Dr. Seuss’s The Lorax. Pack a blanket or some lawn chairs and bring the kids. Movie starts at sundown. Admission and popcorn is free. www.westchasewca.com Feb. 9, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Seminole Heights Sunday Morning Market Check out over 100 vendors at this neighborhood fresh market on the front lawn of Hillsborough High School, 5000 N. Central Ave., Tampa. Monthly event features organic foods, fresh produce, live music and more. www.tampabaymarkets.com Feb. 10, 2-4 p.m. If Music Be the Food Bring a food item for Tampa Bay Harvest and enjoy free admission to this special music presentation by the University of South Florida School of Music at the Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa. One nonperishable item requested per ticket. www.carrollwoodcenter.org Feb. 20, 8:30 a.m. Corbett Prep Open House Attend an admissions open house to learn about preK3 through eighth grade programs, 12015 Orange Grove Drive, Tampa. Meet teachers and see the school. Call 813-961-3087. www. corbettprep.com

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February 2013

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south hillsborough

................................................................................................................ ApOllO BEAcH, BRAnDOn, lITHIA, RIvERvIEw, RUskIn, sOUTH TAMpA, TAMpA, vAlRIcO, FIsHHAwk

Gasparilla Festival of the Arts Returns to Downtown Tampa Art aficionados and artists will gather again in downtown Tampa’s Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park early next month as Raymond James and the city of Tampa present the 43rd annual Gasparilla Festival of the Arts.

The children’s arts and crafts tent sponsored by the Tampa Museum of Art remains popular. About 100,000 people are expected to attend this year’s Gasparilla Festival of the Arts.

nearly 250 of the country’s most accomplished artists and emerging artists will be showcasing their work March 2-3 and competing for the $15,000 Best of Show Award as well as an additional $59,500 in prize money. As always, admission is free for two-day festival from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. March 2 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 3.

An array of media will be on display, including ceramic, digital, drawing, fiber, glass, jewelry, mixed media, painting, photography, sculpture, printmaking, watercolor and wood. This diverse mix of work and a schedule full of entertainment and activities are what consistently draw on average 100,000 attendees over the course of the weekend, says Shaun Drinkard, director of placemaking for the Tampa Downtown Partnership. Drinkard has been involved with the festival for the past six years. “We offer something for everyone,” he says. “The children’s activities have been a really successful component of the festival for families, but then there’s something for the art buyer who wants to be there for the fine art and for others who may just enjoy going to the park to be part of the social scene downtown.” Drinkard says families will especially want to check out two of the festival’s most popular areas. The children’s art tent sponsored by the Tampa Museum of Art rotates free arts and crafts activities across stations every year and typically remains busy from early morning until close. Another popular spot for kids that may appeal to older children, grades three and up, is Art Collectors in Training (ACT), a program organized by members of the festival’s all-volunteer team. now in its third year, ACT is designed to teach kids about how to examine artwork and assess it for purchase. Parents are not allowed in the tent as children are encouraged to make their own decisions and all artwork that is for sale in the tent is generally priced at $5 and $10. But the source of that artwork might surprise some, Drinkard says. “it’s amazing the number of professional artists that are in the festival that donate work to the ACT tent,” he says. “The artists see the benefit of teaching children how to look at artwork and make choices, and all of the money raised goes to the Children’s Cancer Center, this year’s beneficiary.” This year’s festival will include its usual broad range of culinary options from some of the area’s most popular food trucks and local restaurants. The festival also features an expanded music lineup with a second entertainment stage in the Kiley Gardens area atop the Rivergate parking garage. The festival’s main stage in Curtis Hixon Park will continue to showcase an eclectic live music lineup from rock to jazz to soloists. A full music schedule is available at www.gasparillaarts.com.

dates: Feb. 1-2, 7:30 p.m. Nights on Broadway at Tampa Prep See the best of Broadway presented by the theater arts department students and faculty in the Smith Black Box Theater at Tampa Prep, 727 W. Cass St., Tampa. All proceeds benefit the school’s visiting artists fund. Tickets: $75. Go to www.tampaprep.org/NOB to reserve seats. Feb. 2, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Black History Month: Kuumba Dancers and Drummers Celebrate Black History Month at this special performance by Tampa’s premier African dance and percussion ensemble at the Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico. Event is funded by Friends of the Bloomingdale Regional Library. 813-273-3652. Feb. 3, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Fresh Market at Hyde Park Village Browse over 70 vendors at Hyde Park Village. Listen to live music and shop for a variety of items, such as gourmet foods, organic products and handmade crafts. Check out The Kids Market as young entrepreneurs sell their homemade goods. Free entry and parking. www.hydeparkvillage.net Feb. 14-16, various times Hansel & Gretel Watch marionettes tackle the classic Brothers Grimm fairytale at this puppet show presented by Bits ‘N Pieces Puppet Theatre at the Puppet World Playhouse, 12904 Tom Gallagher Road, Dover. Tickets: $8.50 general admission and free for kids 2 and younger. www.puppetworld.com Feb. 16, 11 a.m. Hog Wild Mud Run Sign up to get down and dirty as part of this benefit at 2441 Kirkland Road, Dover. Cost: $55. Event features over 3 miles of climbing, crawling, running and jumping through 20 obstacles. Portion of proceeds benefit Humane Society of Tampa Bay. Register with the code HSTB and save $10. www.hogwildmudrun.com Feb. 26, 6-8 p.m. Ladies Night Out: Show Your Heart Some Love Gather friends for a special evening at South Florida Baptist Hospital, 301 N. Alexander St., Plant City. Learn about heart healthy foods and how to decipher food myths. Free. Visit www. baycareevents.org to register.

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HANDS ON FUN!

Glazer Children’s Museum is a place where children and their parents can learn through play and shared discovery. Created specifically for children under 10, our museum offers 179 ‘interactivities’ in multiple themed areas for families to explore, connect and learn while having fun along the way.

UPCOMING EVENTS AT THE GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM: EXPLORE SCIENCE & SPORTS

FEB 2 – APRIL 30

Team up with us to explore the science behind sports. Test your skills in basketball, tennis, soccer, and football, all while learning math and physics.

MEMBERS, JOIN US FOR A SNEAK PREVIEW FEB 1 All other Museum guest are invited to grand opening FEB 2!

FEBRUARY 5, TARGET TUESDAY WITH CLIFFORD THE BIG RED DOG Join us for an extra special Target Tuesday with Clifford the Big Red Dog, brought to you by WEDU. Admission is FREE from 2-7pm, and the biggest dog there ever was will be stopping by the Museum at 2:30pm, 4:30pm and 6pm!

FEBRUARY 9, LITTLE SWEETHEARTS DANCE Dance the night away with your special valentine at our third annual Little Sweethearts Dance. A light buffet and refreshments will be served and you can participate in a family friendly dance class. It will be a fun-filled evening that your child will remember for a long time to come. Space is limited, so please reserve your tickets today at glazermuseum.org.

FEBRUARY 16-17, BLACK HISTORY WEEKEND Come join us at the Museum as we celebrate African-American history and culture. We have a weekend full of activities to honor famous African-Americans and their contributions to our culture and history.

Visit GLAZERMUSEUM.ORG for more information.

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north pinellas

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clEARwATER, DUnEDIn, EAsT lAkE, OlDsMAR, pAlM HARBOR, sAFETY HARBOR, TARpOn spRIngs

Valentine’s Day Race Is for the Love of Learning Have you ever seen Cupid cross a finish line? Those who attend the Valentine’s Day 5k and 1-mile fundraiser for Spring Valley School, 2109 nebraska Ave., Palm Harbor, just might. The event starts at 8 a.m. Feb. 9 and will feature a 5k race and 1-mile family fun run. Runners, walkers and strollers are encouraged to dress up in Valentine’s Daythemed costumes to compete for one of several contest awards, including ones for three fastest couples (combined Spring Valley School is the only Pinellas County finalist for the Florida Green School times), slowest couple Award. and costume honors, including best Cupid, most creative, most romantic and most bizarre. Registration fees: 1-mile run/ walk is $15 by Feb. 6 and $20 day of race; and 5k run is $25 by Feb. 6 and $30 day of race. “Spring Valley is a Sudbury school that is all about students having the freedom to learn based on their greatest motivations and inner creativity,” says Chris Palmer, a parent of three children attending the school. “We talk a lot about following your heart. A Valentine’s Day event like this was born out of the idea that we can create beautiful, new and different experiences if we trust that creative voice inside us. it’s a great way to have fun while sharing who we are with the community.” Spring Valley School was recently selected as a Florida Green School Award finalist by the state Department of Environmental Protection and the Florida Department of Education, in conjunction with other state agencies and community organizations. It was the only finalist from Pinellas County in a field of 78 nominees statewide. To register, call 727-781-1234 or visit www.springvalleyschool. com.

Pinellas County Names Outstanding Educators The Pinellas Education Foundation and Pinellas County Schools recently announced the county’s 2012-2013 Outstanding Educator of the Year semifinalists. The program recognizes deserving teachers who foster excellence in education, demonstrate continuous growth and leadership, and involve families and the community in the learning process. This year’s 12 semifinalists are: Jennifer Anderson of East Lake High; William Barlow of James B. Sanderlin iB World School (kindergarten-eighth grade); Michelle Brennan of Safety Harbor Elementary; Becky Bride of Palm Harbor University High; James Gill of Seminole Vocational Education Center; Christine Joseph of Skycrest Elementary; Krista Keller of Sawgrass Lake Elementary; Jennifer Klimis of Tarpon Springs Fundamental Elementary; Debra Maccini of Douglas L. Jamerson Elementary; Daniel Regan of Pinellas Park High; Jean Wark of Perkins Elementary; and Joanne Wright of Safety Harbor Middle School. Six finalists were named and notified last month. Congratulations, Krista Kelleher, Jean Wark, Becky Bride, Jennifer Klimis, Jennifer Anderson and Joanne Wright! All Outstanding Educator finalists and semifinalists will be honored at the annual Evening of Excellence on Feb. 25 at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater.

dates: Jan. 31, 8:30 a.m. & 6 p.m. Saint Cecelia Open House Learn about the academic programs available during these informative presentations at the interparochial catholic school at 1350 Court St., Clearwater. School tours are available throughout the day. www.st-cecilia.org Feb. 1, 11 a.m. Founders Luncheon Show your support for emerging artists at the Dunedin Fine Art Center. Hosted by the Sterling Society at the Dunedin Golf Club, 1050 Palm Blvd. Social hour starts at 11 a.m., with the luncheon at noon. www.dfac.org Feb. 23, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Boot Camp for New Dads Sign up for this helpful class at Morton Plant Hospital, 323 Jefford St., Clearwater. Class covers range of topics, including bonding, work hours and forming a parenting team. Fee: $15. Go to www.iexpectmore.org to register. Feb. 23, 11 a.m. Greater Palm Harbor Kids Fest Enjoy a fun afternoon at the Greater Palm Harbor Branch YMCA, 1600 16th St., during this fourth annual event. Day features face painting, carnival games, a DJ and free food. Event is cosponsored by the Family Network on Disabilities. Free admission. www. ymcasuncoast.org Feb. 27, 2-3:30 p.m. After School Fun 4-H Activity Gear up for an activity-based learning adventure at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, to better understand the wonders of the natural world. Event is free but families must register at www.brookercreekpreserve.org or call 727-453-6800.

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Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

February 2013

TBParenting.com

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Bowl Competitors Spread Some Cheer at Hospital Football players, cheerleaders and mascots from the University of Central Florida and Ball State University visited patients at All Children’s Hospital while in the area to compete in the Annual Beef ‘O’ Brady’s St. Pete Bowl at Tropicana Field. UCF football players and cheerleaders stopped by to meet with patients and their families at All Children’s Hospital while here for the St. Pete Bowl.

team memorabilia, signed autographs and posed for pictures.

During their room-toroom visits, players and cheerleaders gave out

“This is a great experience and something i’ve never done before,” says Ball State quarterback Keith Wenning. “To see a smile on their faces is like no other feeling. This is the greatest thing we’ve done all week.” Scott Peterson served as game referee for the bowl game, where UCF defeated Ball State 38-17. Peterson also took part in the visit to All Children’s along with several other referees. “One of the officials in our conference has a daughter going through leukemia treatments, so we are all very aware of what is going on with her,” he says. “We asked if we could come along with the teams today and join them on their visit. What’s really great is watching the kids’ faces light up when the mascots come in the room. That’s worth the trip.” Mike Alstott and wife nicole were on hand for the visit. Alstott, a retired Tampa Bay Buccaneer fullback, served as honorary chairman for the bowl game. Speaking to the teams before the visit, Alstott told the visiting players, “Each one of you are role models and are influential. What you guys do by signing autographs and just saying hi really helps these kids take their mind off being in the hospital and that’s very important”.

Baby Boot Camp Expands Local Reach Baby Boot Camp St. Petersburg recently announced a new partnership with Admiral Farragut Academy. Moms can participate in stroller fitness sessions from 9:15-10:15 a.m. Mondays and Thursdays near the Garden Theater at the academy. Baby Boot Camp also offers classes in Vinoy Park and Crescent Lake Park. The program, available in over 150 cities nationwide, is a 55-minute workout specifically designed to help new moms get back into shape after having a baby, using a combination of strength training and cardiovascular drills. Most classes are held outdoors and moms can bring their babies in strollers or joggers to integrate them into the workout. For schedule details, visit www. babybootcamp.com or call Christie Bruner at 727-637-7913.

dates: Feb. 2, 9:30 a.m. Play Dirty Adventure Run Test your endurance on off-road terrain and through obstacles at Largo Nature Preserve, 150 Highland Ave. S.E., during this 5k race. Fee: $30 by Jan. 29 and $50 day of race. Proceeds support several local organizations, www.largo. com/playdirty Feb. 9, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Touch-a-Truck and Florida Clown Day Plan for a fun day at Largo Central Park, 101 Central Park Drive. Kids can explore firetrucks, dump trucks, military vehicles and a helicopter. Event includes train rides, inflatables and balloon animals. Call 727-586-7415. Feb. 9, 7 p.m. Movies in the Park Spend a night under the stars with the kids at England Brothers Park, 5010 81st Ave. N., Pinellas Park. Movies start at sundown. Concession sales benefit Pinellas Park Firefighters’ Benevolent Fund. See website for movie schedule. www. pinellas-park.com Feb. 9, 8 p.m. – midnight Rock the Arts Party Enjoy a variety of music, dance and acrobatics at this fundraiser hosted by Gasoline Alley Music, 14042 66th St. N., Largo. Bid in the Artsy Auction and take part in 50/50 drawings. Proceeds support local arts education. www. clearwaterartsallicance.org Feb. 16, 6 p.m. Innovators’ Ball Support hands-on STEM education at this fundraiser gala at Bayfront Tower, 21 Beach Drive S.E., St. Petersburg. Night features dinner, music from the Black Honkeys, a silent auction and drawings. Tickets: $60 when purchased by Feb. 8. Proceeds benefit the Science and Technology Education Innovation Center. www.steic.org Feb. 22, 6-9:30 p.m. Ducky Event Join the All Children’s Hospital Guild Beach Branch for this annual event at The Club of Treasure Island, 400 Treasure Island Causeway. This year’s theme is the Roaring ’20s and features a silent auction, live music, dinner and open bar. Benefit All Children’s Hospital. www.allkids.org

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Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

February 2013

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Girl Scout Cookies Get Makeover The Girl Scouts of West Central Florida (GSWCF) recently launched its annual Girl Scout Cookie Program throughout the eight Florida counties that it coordinates. The Cookie Program is designed to help girls build five essential life skills: goal setting, money management, decision making, people skills and business ethics. new this year is redesigned packaging. The new look showcases the various ways the program impacts participating Girl Scouts and their skill development. Cookie box price ($3.50), size and content quantity remain the same. From Feb. 22 – March 17, Girl Scouts will be opening booths at neighborhood businesses. Visitors to www.gswcf.org will be able to search for a booth on the website. Fans with smartphones can download the free Girl Scout Cookie Locator app by texting **GSCOOKIES or **472665437 or by searching Cookie Locator in the iPhone App Store or Android Marketplace. Signature Girl Scout Cookie varieties, including Do-Si-Dos, Dulce de Leche, Samoas, Tagalongs, Thank you Berry Munch, Thin Mints, Trefoils and, returning for a second year following its popular 100th anniversary debut, the Savannah Smiles, will be for sale. For those who want to support Girl Scouting in The redesigned cookie packaging showcases the various their communities but do not want to purchase ways the program impacts participating Girl Scouts. cookies for themselves, GSWCF offers the Cookies from Home Program. This program is a way for Girl Scouts to give back. Donations of cookies through the program are sent directly to military troops serving in combat zones overseas through a partnership with Support Our Troops. Donations may be made in person through a Girl Scout through March 17 and corporations or businesses who wish to purchase at a corporate level may inquire about Cookies From Home sponsorships. For more information, visit www.gswcf.org/cookies or call 800-881-4475, Ext. 1778.

Fresh Friday Nights in Store for New Port Richey Fresh Friday nights will continue through April 2013 for new Port Richey residents every Friday as part of the Greater new Port Richey Main Street’s popular community event series. Visitors can stop by downtown new Port Richey’s Railroad Square, one block east of Grand on nebraska Ave. and Cavalaire Square, to browse participating vendors at Fresh Friday nights Downtown Farmers’ Market from 5-9 p.m. Feb. 1, 8, 15 and 22. Vendors will be selling homemade goods and food items, including fresh produce and specialty foods, fish, meats, cheeses, bakery items, jellies and jams, honey, nuts and coffee. The event also features live entertainment, demonstrations and a variety of local art works on display. Admission is free. Visit www.nprmainstreet.com to learn more.

dates: Feb. 2, 6 p.m. Annual Gong Show Benefit Help the Alzeheimer’s Family Organization during this event at the Jewish Community Center, 9841 Scenic Drive, Port Richey. The night’s theme is football fun and guests are encouraged to wear football and cheerleader costumes. Event features food from Carrabba’s Italian Grill, door prizes, auctions and drawings. Guests must be 21 or older to attend. Tickets start at $25 and include dinner. www.alzheimersfamily.org Feb. 9, 7 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Will Run 4 Chocolate Run/Walk Lace up for this run/walk event at Jay B. Starkey Park, 10500 Wilderness Park Blvd., New Port Richey. Event benefits Landon Outreach Foundation. Advance registration is $25. www. landonoutreach.com Feb. 18-24, 3-11 p.m. Pasco County Fair Have some Midway fun and food at the Pasco County Fairgrounds, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City. Unlimited ride wristband is $18. Visit website for daily schedule of shows, exhibits, demonstrations and ride information. www. pascocountyfair.com Feb. 21-24, various times Little Everglades International Combined Driving Event Check out this four-day equestrian event at 17951 Hamilton Road, Dade City. Event features Jack Russell Terrier races, kids’ play area, and more. Go to website for full schedule. www. littleevergladessteeplechase.org Feb. 21-24, various times Winter AutoFest See collector vehicles and classic cars at this annual family-friendly car swap meet and auction at Festival Park, 2738 Gall Blvd., Zephyrhills. Visit www.zephyrhillsfestivals.com for schedule details. Feb. 23, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Health and Wellness Festival Get wellness tips during this Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce event at The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel. Free admission. www.shopsatwiregrass.com

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February 2013

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Winter Haven Junior League Hosts Light Up the Night

Join the Junior League of Greater Winter Haven in their Light Up the Night Corporate 5K and Community Celebration. Participants can sign up to run, jog or walk a 5K through downtown Winter Haven with coworkers, colleagues, family and friends on Friday, Feb. 22 in Central Park, located between 4th and 5th Streets S.W. Race begins at 6:30 p.m. with after-party to follow. The Junior League is also encouraging companies to show their spirit and form teams for a chance to win a Most Spirited prize. Light Up the Night will also feature live music and a food truck rally to follow the run. Tickets to participate are $25 for individuals and $20 each for teams of five or more. Proceeds from the event will benefit the League’s many community initiatives. For more information, email lightupthenight@jlgwh.com or visit www.jlgwh.org.

Fantasy of Flight Offers Tuskegee Airmen Contest and Event

For a third year, Central Florida students are invited to share their thoughts and dreams in an essay contest to honor the inspirational Tuskegee Airmen, the nation’s first AfricanAmerican military aviators and will compete for prize money. Students in grades 6-12 are eligible to enter the contest, themed “They Dared to Fly” in reference to the values that landed the Tuskegee Airmen in the history books: leadership, excellence, advocacy and determination. First place winners in each of two categories (grades 6-8 and 9-12) will take home $500; two second place winners each will receive $300. The contest is sponsored by Fantasy of Flight in conjunction with scheduled appearances by several original Tuskegee Airmen Feb. 7-9, 2013 at the Polk City attraction located at 1400 Broadway Blvd. S.E. The event will be held in celebration of Black History Month and marks the first of six symposiums in the attraction’s 2013 Legends & Legacies Symposium Series. Dedicated to preserving impactful moments in aviation history and inspiring future generations to greatness, Fantasy of Flight is inviting students to help with this mission by sharing their impressions of the revered Tuskegee Airmen of WWII in essay form. Students in accredited schools or home school programs in grades 6-12 are invited to write about how the principles of LEAD (leadership, excellence, advocacy and determination) helped the Tuskegee Airmen achieve success or to describe how the student can use these values to achieve a personal goal of their own. Required essay length for students in grades 6-8 is 350 words; 500 words for students in grades 9-12. Entries will be judged on overall content, including spelling, grammar, punctuation, legibility and penmanship (as applicable). Deadline for the essay contest is 5 p.m. on Feb. 22. Winners will be announced March 8. Symposium events are included in the price of Fantasy of Flight general admission and are free for annual pass holders. General admission is $29.95 for adults, $27.95 for seniors ages 55 and over and $15.95 for children, ages 6-12, plus tax. Kids five and under are free with full paying adult. For more information and full essay contest rules, visit www. fantasyofflight.com.

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

February 2013

TBParenting.com

dates: Feb. 1, 6 p.m. Empty Bowls Support the Agape Food Bank, a program of Catholic Charities of Central Florida, at this gala dinner at the Magnolia Building, 698 E. Orange St., Lakeland. Evening includes an auction of ceramic bowls painted and signed by national and local celebrities, including Paula Deen and Wynton Marsalis. Tickets are $75. www.cflcc.org/emptybowls Feb. 2, 9 a.m. Warrior Dash Central Florida Take part in a challenging run over rugged terrain and extreme obstacles as part of this muddy, fiery 5K at Triple Canopy Ranch, 16950 C.R. 630 E., Lake Wales. Course features 12 obstacles from mud pits and climbing walls to tight rope walks and fire pits. Registration is $80 through Jan. 29. www.warriordash. com. Feb. 2, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Chalk for Charity Festival Bring artists young and old to be paired with sponsors to transform Lemon Street in Downtown Lakeland. Vote for your favorite art and buy squares for the kids to create their own art. Event benefits Lakeland Knights of Columbus and Lakeland Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association. For info, call 863-688-8787. Feb. 21, 6-8 p.m. Spelling Bee Help the kids study with sample words for this annual competition for grades kindergarten through eighth at the Winter Haven Recreational and Cultural Center, 801 Av. T N.E., Winter Haven. Awards will be given to the first and second place participants in each age group. Free. 863-291-5675 Feb. 23, 6 p.m. – Midnight The Gala 2013: Alice in Wonderland Prepare for a memorable evening and escape down the rabbit hole at this Lewis Carroll-inspired black-tie benefit at the Polk Museum of Art, 800 E. Palmetto St., Lakeland. Night includes dancing, gourmet dinner and silent auction. Tickets are $350 per person with reservations required. www.polkmuseumofart.org

October 2012

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around town

TO sEE MORE pHOTOs vIsIT FAcEBOOk.cOM/TAMpABAYpAREnTIngMAgAzInE

Family Broadway Night at the Straz Center: Mary Poppins arrived during the winter break to entertain bay area families. Left, Olivia and Amanda Conti, Center, Chris and Thomas Schoelzeo, Right, Kara and Krista Kennedy.

Family Broadway Night at the Straz Center: Colby and Elliott Coffin.

A Magic Cure Event: Illusionist Reynold Alexander dazzled audiences at the Tampa Theatre, raising money for a great cause too. Tracey Griffin, Deborah Haskin, Darlene Lewis and Mimi Wills.

24th Annual Say No to Drugs Holiday Classic: The annual 5/10k at Coachman Park was sponsored in part by Nationwide Title Clearing. Louise Sedicino, Teresa Moston, Janice Rush, Jennifer Lemming, Tammy Judd and Deb Turner-Bey.

Second Annual Shop & Sip: Mompreneurs Yvette Manes of AquaSeventy6, Marcy Budwick of Kaiya Designs, Jasmine Atiyeh of R&E Avenue and Kara Hann of Simply Vintage Candles.

Ties and Tennis Shoes Gala â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Gala attendees arrived at Tropicana Field in their tennis shoes for this whimsical event. Jack Harris, Rick Baker, Terry Boehm, Jim Myers and Mitch Lee

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Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

February 2013

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february calendar

events & festivals

Bay Area Renaissance Festival at MOSI Through April, various dates/times Go in costume or just get lost in the medieval merriment at this annual festival held weekends through early April at 11315 n. 46th Street, Tampa. The theme for Feb. 23-24 is Buccaneer Beer Fest. Visit www.bayarearenaissancefest.com for tickets and schedule. 6 & Older Panera Bread Valentine’s Cookie Campaign Feb. 1-14, various times Buy a special Valentine’s cookie Feb. 1-14 at participating Panera Bread locations and the cafes will donate 100% of the proceeds to St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Heart Center. Everyone Team Up at Glazer Children’s Museum Feb. 1 – April 30, various times A new exhibit at the museum, 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, celebrates the love of the game. Explore the connection between science and sports and test your skills in basketball, tennis, soccer and football. www.glazermuseum.org Everyone My Doll & Me Feb. 2, 10-11:30 a.m. The Tampa Bay History Center, 801 Old Water St., welcomes ages 6-12 and their favorite dolls to discover Florida’s native American past and participate in crafts and games. Tickets: $12 members and $15 nonmembers (includes child’s gallery admission). Preregistration required. www.tampabayhistorycenter.org 6-12 Free Cooking Classes Feb. 2, 20 & 27, various times This month at nature’s Food Patch, 1225 Cleveland St., Clearwater: Knife Skills (3 p.m. Feb. 2); Perfect Pears (6:30 p.m. Feb. 20); Complete Raw Meal (3 p.m. Feb. 23); and Energetics of Food (6:30 p.m. Feb. 23). www. naturesfoodpatch.com Everyone Sunday Fun Days Feb. 3, 1-4 p.m. Families can enjoy hands-on activities, games and tours at the Tampa Bay History Center. Free with museum admission. www.tampabayhistorycenter. org Everyone Target Tuesday Feb. 5, 2-7 p.m. Bring the kids to Glazer Children’s Museum, 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, and enjoy the

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FOR MORE EvEnTs, vIsIT TBpAREnTIng.cOM

museum for free courtesy of Target. Adults must be accompanied by a child and vice versa. www.glazermuseum.org Everyone A Night at the Theatre Feb. 7, 6:30-8 p.m. Attend a special benefit performance of “MOMlogues 2: Off to School” at Stageworks Theatre, 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa. Evening includes cocktails and networking reception followed by the private, live performance. Tickets: $45. www.alphahouseoftampa.org Moms They Dared to Fly: Tuskegee Airmen Feb. 7-9, various times Hear from surviving members of the original Tuskegee Airmen as they discuss their wartime military service at Fantasy of Flight, 1400 Broadway Blvd. S.E., Polk City. Event features open forum, Q&A sessions, multimedia exhibit and vintage aircraft collection. Admission: $29.95 adults, $27.95 seniors 55 and older and $15.95 ages 6-15. www.fantasyofflight.com Everyone Breakthrough for Brain Tumors Tampa Run & Walk Feb. 9, 8 a.m. Sign up for this benefit run/walk at the Tampa Bay Times Forum, 401 Channelside Drive. The event raises funds to support vital research and services for those living with brain tumor diagnosis. Registration: $35 adults and $20 ages 12 and younger. www.abta.org Everyone Heart Healthy Fair Feb. 9, 8 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Get the facts about heart health at St. Joseph’s Hospital north, 4211 Van Dyke Road, Lutz. Health screenings (blood pressure, glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol and body mass index) available on first-come, first-served basis. Cost: $10. Call 855-269-4777 to register. www. iexpectmore.org Moms & Dads Little Sweethearts Dance Feb. 9, 6-8 p.m. Take your little sweetheart to the Glazer Children’s Museum in Tampa for a familyfriendly dance class for all ages. Evening includes light buffet and drinks. Cost: $15 members and $20 nonmembers. www.glazermuseum.org Everyone

Medium when she appears at the USF Sun Dome, 4202 E. Fowler Ave. Caputo will give interactive readings to audience members and share personal stories. Tickets start at $25.50 (purchase does not guarantee a reading). www. sundomearena.com Moms & Dads Lego Friends Weekend Feb. 9-10, various times Bring your daughters to a Lego Friends building party, featuring games, entertainment, activities and a chance to meet their favorite characters. Event celebrates individuality and girls’ unique personalities. http://florida.legoland.com 6 & Older Rock n’ Roll St. Pete Half Marathon Feb. 10, 7:30 a.m. Lace up for this race, which starts at Tropicana Field and ends in north Shore Park. Participants also can opt to do a mini-marathon. Fees: $110 until Feb. 3 and $150 day of race for half and $45 and $55, respectively, for mini. Visit http:// runrocknroll.competitor.com/st-petersburg to register. 12 & Older

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february calendar

Total Eclipse of the Heart Feb. 14, 5:30 & 7:30 p.m. Dine under the stars at this unique Valentine’s Day event in the planetarium at Tampa’s MOSi. Enjoy a light dinner at one of two seatings underneath a changing sky and hear timeless tales of ancient love as told by the stars. Cost per couple: $80 members and $100 nonmembers. www.mosi.org Date Night

Wild at Heart Feb. 14-16, various times Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Lowry Park zoo. Hear interesting stories about the pairing, partnering and mating habits of the zoo’s residents. Guests will enjoy champagne, up-close animal encounters, tour, dinner and open bar. Reservations required. Tickets: $60 per member and $65 per nonmember. www.lowryparkzoo. com Date Night Masquerade of Tampa Bay Feb. 16, 7-11 p.m. Hit the tables at this casino-themed fundraiser at the Tampa Bay Garden Club, 2629 Bayshore Blvd., Tampa. Proceeds benefit the MidFlorida chapter of the Multiple Sclerosis Society. Tickets: $75. www.masqueradeoftampabay.org Moms & Dads Dog and Baby Connection Feb. 20, 7-9:30 p.m. Learn how to integrate your four-legged child with little ones in the household during this safety class in the Cheek Powell Pavilion at Morton Plant Hospital, 303 Pinellas St., Clearwater. Cost: $15. www.iexpectmore.org Moms, Dads Gasparilla Distance Classic Feb. 23-24, various times Gear up for this popular race that winds down Tampa’s Bayshore Boulevard. Weekend features 5k and 15k runs, 5k walk, 5k stroller roll, 8k and half-marathon. www.tampabayrun.com Everyone

Spend a day at the polo for this second annual benefit at DI Polo Club, 1003 Cowart Road, Plant City. Proceeds benefit Children’s Cancer Center, Wheels of Success and Starting Right now. Tickets: $150 individuals and $250 couples. www.charitypoloclassic.com Moms, Dads City Saturday Market Flan Fest Feb. 23, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Join a flan eating contest, sample food and enjoy live entertainment while you shop as the ybor City Saturday Market hosts its annual bake-off in Centennial Park. Proceeds support the market. Free admission. www.ybormarket.com Everyone Bollywood Nights Feb. 23, 6 p.m. Attend this inaugural fundraising event at the Tampa Museum of Art, 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza. The festive black-tie/ethnic formal event features celebrity chef-designed food, music, specialty cocktails, live auction and drawing. Proceeds benefit Children Across Borders. www.childrenacrossborders.org Moms, Dads Stars & Pars Pairings Party/Auction Feb. 23, 7 p.m. Kickoff the weekend’s charity golf tournament to benefit The Children’s Home with a special gala at the Tampa Bay History Center. Enjoy food, entertainment, live and silent auctions and an open bar as well as meet local and national celebs participating in the tourney. Tickets: $65. www.childrenshome.org Moms & Dads

art

Chuck Close – A Couple of Ways of Doing Something Jan. 31 – March 31, various times Check out this exhibition showcasing the work of the renowned portrait photographer at the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts, 400 n. Ashley Drive, Suite 200, Tampa. www.fmopa. org Everyone Art on 19th St. Feb. 2, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. See live art demonstrations monthly at Singing Stone Gallery, 1903 n. 19th St., ybor City. Meet local artists, including Carol Bright, who will be creating jewelry on-site. Free admission and parking in front of gallery. www. singingstoneonline.com Moms & Dads Downtown Dunedin Craft Festival Feb. 16-17, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Browse the work of a diverse mix of artists and

Charity Polo Classic Feb. 23, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

crafters at this annual event along Main Street. Festival features ceramic planters, pottery, hair accessories and jewelry as well as a green market. Free admission. www.artfestival.com Everyone

film Classic Movie Series at Tampa Theatre Through March 17, various times Get lost in the Sex Symbols of the Silver Screen series at Tampa Theatre. Watch film icons from Marlon Brandon to Marilyn Monroe. www. tampatheatre.org Everyone Josh Groban Live: All That Echoes Feb. 4, 7 p.m. Show is appearing in Tampa, Oldsmar, Wesley Chapel, Lakeland, Pinellas Park and Sarasota. Visit www.fathomevents.com for theater locations and prices. The singer performs cuts from his new album and hits from his 12-year career. Moms, Date Night Flight of the Butterflies Opens Feb. 8 Follow the incredible migration of butterfly and a scientist’s journey it in this new IMAX film debuting MOSi, Running time: 44 minutes. org Everyone

a monarch to explain at Tampa’s www.mosi.

Wreck-It Ralph Available Feb. 12 Bring home the Oscar-nominated animated adventure in HD digital and HD digital 3D format. Rated PG. Running time: 108 minutes. http://movies.disney.com Everyone Beautiful Creatures Opens Feb. 15 See the popular four-book series come to life as viewers meet Ethan and Lena, the new mysterious girl in town with dark secrets.12 & Older Escape from Planet Earth Opens Feb. 15 Follow Scorch Supernova, an astronaut who finds himself in a predicament when he responds to a cry from help in space in this animated adventure. 10 & Older Safe Haven Opens Feb. 15 Get swept away in the romance of nicholas Sparks when a young woman bonds with a local widower just as her past comes back to haunt her.

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February 2013

TBParenting.com

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

Film stars Julianne Hough and Josh Duhamel. Moms, Date Night

theater & dance An Empty Plate in The Café Du Grand Boeuf Jan. 25-Feb. 17, various times Meet Victor, the eccentric owner and sole patron of the finest restaurant in Paris, who requests one final meal in this unique play by Michael Hollinger, showing at freeFall Theatre, 6099 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Tickets: $39-$46. www.freefalltheatre.com Mom Dads Animal Safari Stories Feb. 10, 1 p.m. Listen to storyteller Katie Adams as she shares her travel adventures from around the world in TECO Theater at the Straz Center, Tickets start at $6.50. www.strazcenter.org 2-4 Flashdance Feb. 19-24, various times Relive the ’80s pop culture phenomenon in Carol Morsani Hall at the Straz Center, 1010 n. W.C. Macinnes Place, Tampa. Sing along to Maniac and Flashdance (What a Feeling) and hear 16 original songs. Tickets start at $44.50. www. strazcenter.org 14 & Older Dig It Feb. 28, Mar. 1, 2, 7-8, various times Join inquisitive archeologists and their fossil friend Lucy as they explore the wonders of ancient civilization in this production from second through fourth grade students at the Patel Conservatory at TECO Theater in the Straz Center. Tickets start at $15. www.strazcenter.org Everyone

music & comedy Video Games Live! Feb. 1, 8 p.m. Hear music from popular video games as you’ve never heard it before at this special concert by the Florida Orchestra and USF Chamber Singers at the Mahaffey, Tickets start at $42.50. www. themahaffey.com Everyone Strawberry Shortcake & Doodlebops Feb. 8, 6 p.m. Move and groove along to your favorite characters as the popular characters bring their fun music and dazzling dance moves to young

fans at Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater. Tickets: $25-$37.50. www. rutheckerdhall.com Everyone Bands, Brew & BBQ Feb. 9 – March 17, various times Visit Busch Gardens or SeaWorld Orlando and jam during nightly concerts that are included with admission. SeaWorld features Styx and Big and Rich. Busch Gardens hosts Barenaked Ladies, Goo Goo Dolls and more. www. seaworld.com www.buschgardens.com Everyone Clearwater Sea-Blues Festival Feb. 16-17, various times Chill to the sounds of blues music and indulge in seafood at this two-day event at Clearwater’s Coachman Park. Lineup includes Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Coco Montoya, Ruthie Foster and Magic Slim. Free general admission, with reserved seating and ViP packages available. www.clearwaterblues.com Everyone Jeff Dunham: Disorderly Conduct Feb. 22, 8 p.m. Enjoy some laughs as the comic and ventriloquist brings some of his most memorable characters, including Walter the Grumpy Retiree, Jose Jalapeno and Peanut on stage at the Tampa Bay Times Forum, 401 Channelside Drive. Tickets start at $43.25. www.tampabaytimesforum.com Moms, Dads Matisyahu Feb. 23, 8 p.m. Experience an acoustic evening that blends reggae, hip-hop and alternative rock as the unique vocalist is joined by guitarist Adam Weinberg at Tampa Theatre, 711 N. Franklin St. Tickets start at $35.50. www.tampatheatre.org Everyone Pink with Special Guest The Hives Feb. 27, 7:30 p.m. Dance in your seat as the acclaimed live performer heads out on her first North American tour in four years. Pink will be joined at the Tampa Bay Times Forum by special guest The Hives. Tickets: $36-$96. www.tampabaytimesforum. com 14 & Older

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February 2013

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January 2013

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Expert Care for Tampa Bay’s Children A

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