January 2012 by Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

Your Children’s Board wishes you and your family a Safe and Happy New Year. After the big countdown and celebration, make it your resolution to visit one of our Family Resource Centers in your neighborhood. Funded in part by the Children’s Board, FRCs are warm, inviting places that offer a variety of free services like educational play groups, parenting classes, mobile health services, job skills training, CPR courses and much more!

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

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

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

A Special Delivery

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

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

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

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

contents

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january 2012 • 5TH year • 9TH Issue

features

10 Mission Possible Teachers can inspire today’s screenagers 14 best of the bay Our guide to education

24 Good eats Snack better, live better 26 ParentinG resolutions for 2012 4 steps to take this year 32 Greater CoveraGe Many preventive care services free 34 new beGinninGs And cherishing each day 36 extraordinary woMan Ampy Suarez

48 ProteCtinG our Children Speaking up and out against abuse

every month 6 letter froM the editor 10 eduCation 27 after sChool 30 what’s haPPeninG 32 health and wellness 38 north hillsborouGh news 40 south hillsborouGh news 42 north Pinellas news 44 south Pinellas news 46 PasCo news

49 around town 50 Calendar of events

On the cover: Cover Kid Winners Ansley Hubbard and Maxwell Keskiner at Academy at the Lakes Lower Division in Land O’ Lakes. Photograph by: Amy Pezzicara, www.PezzPhoto.com

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Smile Bright with

M cI lwain

P ediatric D entistry

...Let Our Family Care For Yours

Look for us at The Gasparilla Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parade Saturday January 21, 2012 Pediatric Dentistry

We Specialize in the care of Infants, Children & Adolescents

James E. McIlwain, DDS, MSD Leigh Ann McIlwain, DMD Michael F. McIlwain, DMD General and Cosmetic Dentistry Preventive and Esthetic care of adults

Michael N. Chiaramonte, DMD Dr. Robert Hart, DDS Painfree Laser Dentistry

New Tampa 813-991-9893 26908 Foggy Creek Rd Wesley Chapel, FL 33544

South Tampa 813-879-8097 4710 N. Habana Ave. Tampa, FL 33614

www.McIlwainDentistry.com

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January 2012

TBParenting.com

letter

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FrOM THe eDITOr

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

Surely a few days in December made us feel like January was an eternity away but now that we’ve arrived we can breathe and relax. Each new year gives us a clean slate. i like to set a goal for myself and this year my goal is all about you, our readers. i want to continue to grow the magazine in a way that best serves you. January means a lot of things to many people Me with Lindsay, Har ris and Clara at my annual Thanksgiving but for my friend Linda Hurtado of ABC Action party. news it means a new beginning. in September, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and on page 34 she shares her story. After a rough ending to 2011, Linda is set to start 2012 with a fresh outlook on her life and family. One important resolution that is likely on everyone’s list, including mine, is staying healthy. With the passing of the Affordable Care Act there are a number of preventative care services that may be covered by your health care provider. Dr. Carmella M. Sebastian of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida breaks these services down on page 32 and shows how they apply to your family. Just as in years’ past, this issue includes our education guide. Check out page 14 to see our listing of some of the bay area’s premier private schools and what they offer your family. Thank you for continuing to tune into Parents in Action on ABC Action news at noon on Thursdays. We’ve covered a range of topics but there’s plenty more to delve into. Visit us at www.facebook.com/tampabayparentingmagazine or follow me on Twitter @angelaardolino and let me know what topics you’re interested in hearing about. Some of you may be thinking that you’re just a year older but that couldn’t be further from the truth. you’re wiser, stronger and more intelligent because of 2011. So whatever happened last year, good or bad, learn from it and move on. This year has so much to offer you and your family. Set a goal, prepare for it and act. Enjoy 2012 because it’s going to be great!

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

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

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

.............................................................................................................. Tampa Bay Parenting is published twelve times per year by Lucy Loo inc. it is distributed free of charge at area supermarkets, community centers, libraries, doctor’s offices and other businesses with products and services for families. no portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission. TBPM is not responsible for statements made by advertisers or writers. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of information we print, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from omissions or errors. All photography and letters sent to TBPM will be treated unconditionally, assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. For information on where to find TBPM or how to become a distributor, call 813-949-4400 or email info@tbparenting.com. Copyright 2007-2012 by Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine. All rights reserved. Comments and suggestions are always welcome.

Health

Make Your Priority in

2012!

Believe in yourself! Your New Year’s Resolutions probably include the same as last year:

Lose Weight Get Fit Reduce Stress We’re asking that you make yourself a priority in 2012 in order to accomplish all of these goals! Live a healthy life, spend more quality time with your family, become more active and add balance to your life by committing to wellness through weight loss. You’ve set your personal goals and now we want to help you achieve them.

Sign the 2012 Put Your Health First Pledge on Facebook

Scan this code

César A. Lara, M.D. is a Board Certified family physician and a leading expert in healthy weight loss. For more than 20 years, it’s been Dr. Lara’s passion to be a positive force in America’s ever-growing obesity crisis… one patient at a time. Believe in yourself, call us today!

Call us today to learn more about our

New Year specials!

727.446.3021 • bestmedicineforweightloss.com

Clearwater

1217 Ewing Avenue Clearwater, FL 33756

Palm Harbor 2323 Curlew Road Dunedin, FL 34698

St. Petersburg

3637 4th St. N., Ste 103 St. Petersburg, FL 33704

ThIS NEw YEar GET YOur BraIN IN GEar

MOSI helps keep you in the know with educational programming for kids and families!

SchOOl’S

Out MOSI’S

MOSI’s Idea Zone! offers workshops and activities for everyone at any age. Bring your family and spend the day learning and exploring your imagination. It’s fun and affordable! MOSI’s Idea Zone! also offers executives continuing education classes! Increase your knowledge of software, management skills and more. Enjoy unique high-tech workshops, make-n-take classes, executive workshops and special programming like the Inspirations in Science Series. If School’s Out, MOSI’s In! Make school breaks lots of fun at MOSI! Children enjoy hands-on experiences and investigations. Visit our website and see the Education page for program opportunities!

MuseuM of science & industry 4801 east fowler Avenue tampa, florida 33617-2099 mosi.org

mission

possible TeacHers can InspIre TODay’s screenagers

............................ By Mark Heller

children have learned to process information differently than we do. Visual memory and processing are areas in which they clearly excel. Jukes cites research that asserts that the human brain is hard-wired to process images vastly faster than it can process text. Tests have shown that people can remember the content of more than 2,500 pictures with 90 percent accuracy several days after exposure, even though they see each picture for only 10 seconds. Recall rates after one year remain at 63 percent. However, the same research shows that when information is presented orally, people only remember about 10 percent after 72 hours. Add picture content to the material, however, and the retention skyrockets to 65 percent. With the simple addition of supporting visuals, teachers could increase students’ retention by as much as 650 percent. now, if we add to this natural visual propensity the fact that digital natives have learned to think and process information differently than we parents and teachers do, it’s clear that we are facing a brave new world. Jukes posits that these factors have a significant effect on how our children think, learn, view the world and become engaged in it. As a result, they have different preferences for learning.

i recently attended a presentation called Understanding the Digital Generation. it was very informative and even a bit provocative. Presenter ian Jukes’ work is so interesting and important that i would like to share his ideas with you. it’s clear that our children are growing up in a world that is quite different from the one in which we grew up. The pace of change has become so rapid and continues to increase, largely due to the increased prominence of technology. in fact, we are probably in its grip to a much greater degree than we ever imagined we would be. These changes have clearly had an impact on our children. On the surface they still look like us, but inside researchers believe they have come to be wired differently. That wiring difference, discovered through advances in brain research, is a result of the constant bombardment of visual stimuli. Because of this digital bombardment, Jukes

says our children’s brains “are adapting to accommodate all the technology they spend so much time surrounded by. They are what Don Tapscott calls “screenagers” — the first generation that has grown up with a computer mouse and the assumption that images on a screen are to be interacted with.”

• Digital learners prefer receiving information quickly from multiple multimedia sources.

Writer Marc Prensky, who coined the terms digital natives (our children) and digital immigrants (us), believes that, by the time they’re 21, today’s children will have:

• Many educators prefer to provide text before pictures, sounds, and video.

• Played more than 10,000 hours of video games • Sent and received 200,000 emails and texts • Spent 10,000 hours on phones • Watched more than 20,000 hours of TV • Seen more than 500,000 commercials At the risk of over-simplifying the new brain research, it’s become clear that constant, consistent stimuli (like hours spent playing video games) create new and high-speed pathways and networks in the brain. As such,

• Many educators prefer slow and controlled release of information from limited sources. • Digital learners prefer processing pictures, sounds, color, and video before text.

• Digital learners prefer random access to hyperlinked multimedia information. • Many educators prefer to provide information linearly, logically and sequentially. • Digital learners prefer to network simultaneously with others. • Many educators prefer students to work independently before they network and interact.

continued on page 12

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• Digital learners prefer learning just in time. • Many educators prefer teaching just in case. • Digital learners prefer instant gratification with immediate and deferred rewards. • Many educators prefer deferred gratification and delayed rewards. • Digital learners prefer learning that is relevant, active, instantly useful and fun. • Many educators prefer teaching memorization in preparation for standardized tests. So, because of their experiences, our children learn more visually than we do. The schools we attended were populated by teachers and administrators from an earlier generation. Those teachers had different experiences from today’s students and they were even less visual learners than we parents are. As such, they created (or extended) a very auditory and text-based culture in the classroom. Teaching with a lot of visuals was very difficult and very expensive until the advent of the digital age. Today, technology has created a faster and much more visual world for all of us. yet, many of today’s teachers are not yet reaching students with a set of methods to which they can relate. Teachers would do well to change their image of what school looks like from a text-based, memorize approach to a 21st-century model. We in education clearly have work to do to best reach and prepare today’s learners for their future. Many aspects of the school culture must change to meet today’s challenges while others, such as instilling character, confidence, curiosity, and resilience, remain of the highest importance and are timeless. To read more about Marc Prensky visit www.marcprensky.com. Visit www.fluency21.com to learn more about Understanding the Digital Generation.

Is Your Gifted Child Reaching Full Potential?

Mark Heller is head of school at Academy at the Lakes. For more information, visit www.academyatthelakes.org.

Lee Academy features: • Small class size (10:1) • Gifted curriculum that emphasizes critical and creative thinking • Passion pursuits research projects • A strong fine arts program • Dual-enrollment program with local colleges • Emphasis on self-esteem and values such as leadership, consideration and respect • Strong counseling and group dynamics programs • No decisions based on chronological age

www.LeeGiftedAcademy.com .................................................................................................................................................................................. 12

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Please Join Us For

OPEN HOUSE For students entering Grades 5-12

January 17, 2012 at 9:00 am • Talk with current parents about their Academy experience. • Tour our campus. Meet our teachers and students. • Learn how Academy prepares students for college and for life.

The Academy Experience.

Extraordinary preparation for college and for life.

• See first-hand why hundreds of Tampa families choose Academy.

McCormick Campus 2331 Collier Parkway Land O’Lakes, FL 34639 For more information or to schedule a personal tour,

Phone 813-909-7919 www.AcademyAtTheLakes.org • www.facebook.com/AcademyAtTheLakes ............................................................................................................................................................................................... Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

January 2012

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education

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Best of the Bay For parents, a quality school, whether it’s for day care services or primary education, is a top priority. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you find the right fit for your child. And if you’re looking for after-school ideas or turtoring help, we’ve got you covered there too!

Hillsborough Academy of the Holy Names 3319 Bayshore Blvd., Tampa 813-839-5371, www.holynamestpa.org The Academy of the Holy names is an independent, Catholic coeducational elementary school and a college prep high school for young women. At the academy, teachers integrate technology, encourage artistic expression and actively engage students in exploration and inquiry. Students also are challenged to grow spiritually and engage in community service. Bayshore Christian School 3909 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa 813-839-4297, www.bayshorechristianschool.org Bayshore is a nondenominational Christian school established in 1971 to provide top quality, Christ-centered education for students from prekindergarten through 12th grade. The school boasts a college prep curriculum, including high honors, advanced placement and dual-enrollment courses, and athletic programs. The school offers a 20 percent discount to military families.

“Sing In” the New Year with your Child!

Now Registering for Winter Classes

Ages Birth to Kindergarten and the Grownups Who Love Them! www.MusicTogether.com/ TampaBay

Berkeley Preparatory School 4811 Kelly Road, Tampa 813-885-1673, www.berkeleyprep.org Berkeley Prep, a prekindergarten through 12th grade independent, coeducational day school, is dedicated to putting people in the world who make a positive difference. Twice designated a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education, Berkeley provides comprehensive programs in the academics, fine arts and athletics. Carrollwood Day School 813-920-2288, www.carrollwooddayschool.org 1515 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa Carrollwood Day School is the only school in Florida, and the sixth in the United States, authorized to offer the complete continuum of the international Baccalaureate programming, from preschool through grade 12. CDS is recognized nationally for its academic excellence and its schoolwide emphasis on character development. Christ the King Catholic School 3809 W. Morrison Ave., Tampa 813-870-3262, www.cks-school.org

Christ the King is a pre-kindergarten through eighth grade community that encourages students to reach their full potential. For more than 60 years, students have thrived in an engaging environment with enhancements that include music, art, foreign language, physical education, public speaking and more. Family of Christ 16190 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Tampa 813-558-9343, www.foc-knights.com Established as a new mission in the new Tampa area, Family of Christ opened its doors in 1999. Set on a beautiful 31-acre campus, the school has grown annually and now includes kindergarten through eighth grade. Hillsborough Magnet Schools Elementary, middle and high schools 813-272-4811, www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/magnet The unique instructional strategies at each magnet school emphasize an integrated curriculum supported by technology-rich environments and learner-centered educational communities. Teachers are skilled in the use of such strategies as problem-solving based learning and cooperative learning groups. Independent Day School – Corbett Campus 12015 Orange Grove Drive, Tampa 813-961-3087, www.idsyes.com Founded as an independent, nonsectarian school, it now serves more than 500 college-bound students in PreK3 through eighth grade. Since its founding, the school has gained national and international recognition as a model of best practices in education. At iDS-CC, young people develop the skills and knowledge to prosper in higher education and life. Kumon of South Tampa 4032-C W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa 813-286-7802, www.kumon.com/south-tampa Kumon is the world’s largest after-school math and reading enrichment program. Kumon unlocks the potential of children so they can achieve more on their own. Lee Academy for Gifted Education 8613 Twin Lakes Blvd., Tampa 813-931-3316, www.leegiftedacademy.com Lee Academy has patterned its approach to education

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In High School I became certain about my

Starting in our Preschool we build a

strong foundation of basics in academics and life skills. Then we continue to strengthen that foundation and expand student abilities through our elementary and middle school with excellent skills in grammar, math, writing and reading.

goals

Finally, in high school, our students will enhance their skills and expand their abilities that will allow them to succeed in life, whatever their goal may be.

and more

importantly how to

reach them.

Call Today for a Tour 727-446-1722 PreSchool - 12th grade

ÂŠ 2011 Clearwater Academy International. All rights reserved. Clearwater Academy is licensed to use Applied ScholasticsTM educational services and is a non-profit organization that admits students of any race, color, nationality or ethnic origin. #C980820.

ClearwaterAcademy.org | 801 Drew St. Clearwater, FL 33755

nAtHAn is a hisTORY-LOving

te n n is -playi ng 100-yAr d-dAs H i ng, plAy-wr iti ng

AcTiOn-MOviE-MAKing

4811 KELLY ROAD TAMPA , FL 33615 813 . 8 85 .1673

Admissions open Houses

8Th g RADE R at B E R K E LEY P R E PARATORY schO OL middle and upper divisions (Grades 6 to 12) Wednesday, January 25, 9â&#x20AC;&#x201C;11:30 am Program begins promptly at 9 am Jean Ann Cone Library Please RSVP by January 23 to 813.885.1673 ext 2312 or email wardluc@berkeleyprep.org

Find out more at www.berkeleyprep.org/openhouse An independent day school for boys and girls in Pre-K to Grade 12

January 2012

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education

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Open House

TAILGATE before the BIG GAME Sat, Feb. 4 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Food, games, and campus tours!

School Spirit & Pride

“I got chills when our entire school cheered AFA! AFA! AFA! during the pep rally.” - Coach Miller

Farragut was the 1st high school football team in Pinellas County to make it to the state championship since 1995!

www.farragut.org | PreK-12

after Dr. Barbara Clark’s integrative education model and strives to give equal importance to the four human functions — thinking / cognitive, feeling / emotional, physical / sensing and the intuitive. Northdale Lutheran School 15709 Mapledale Blvd., Tampa 813-961-9195, www.northdalelutheran.org At northdale Lutheran School, its mission is to assist families by providing an excellent education in a safe, Christian environment. The school, which offers a multigrade education format, recently completed its accreditation self-study and has been recommended for full accreditation from WELSSA and nCPSA. St. John’s Episcopal Parish Day School Three locations in Tampa 813-849-6200, www.stjohnseagles.org Providing academic excellence in a nurturing Christian environment, St. John’s was founded in 1951. The school maintains high goals and standards for academic and behavioral performance, serving students from prekindergarten through eighth grade. St. John’s says it’s shaping future generations to solve tomorrow’s challenges. St. Mary’s Episcopal Day School 2101 S. Hubert Ave., Tampa 813-258-5508, www.smeds.org An independent, coeducational parish day school, providing a Christian environment for the intellectual and personal growth of students in Pre-K through eighth grade. Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo — Zoo School 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa, 813-935-8552, Ext. 268 www.lowryparkzoo.com/_education/about_zoo_ school.html The zoo School is headquarters for more than 100 school holiday camps for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Campers can learn about nature, science and the animal kingdom while hiking through the zoo, exploring behind-the-scenes and cooling off in the water play areas. Classes, sleepovers, birthday parties and more are also available throughout the year. Tampa Preparatory School 727 W. Cass St., Tampa 813-251-8481, www.tampaprep.org Tampa Prep is an independent, coeducational college prep school, serving sixth through 12th graders. For more than 30 years, it has been a place to think, create, be yourself, aspire to excellence and go beyond.

Pinellas Admiral Farragut Academy 501 Park St. N., St. Petersburg 727-384-5500, www.farragut.org A co-educational, college prep school, the academy serves students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, with a five- and seven-day boarding program available for students in grades six through 12. The curriculum emphasizes the STEM classes: science, technology,

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Join us for our Pre-Kindergarten & Kindergarten Open House February 1, 2012 • 9:00 a.m. The Academy of the Holy Names is an independent, Catholic coeducational elementary school and college preparatory high school for young women, sponsored by the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary. Established in 1881, the Academy enrolls over 800 students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. We welcome students of all faiths who seek an education enhanced with a commitment to serve others. Learn more about the Academy of the Holy Names

NOw AccePtiNg APPLicAtiONs FOr tHe 2012-2013 scHOOL yeAr. 3319 Bayshore Boulevard • Tampa, Florida 33629 • 813.839.5371 • www.holynamestpa.org

Experience Education with Excellence and Excitement ADMISSIONS OPEN HOUSE

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 8, 2012 8:30 AM or Contact the Admissions Office for a Personal Tour(813) 961-3087

PREK3 THROUGH 8TH GRADE

International Baccalaureate Programme PreK3 through 8th Grade

Leaders in Fine Arts, Sports and Technology

www.idsyes.com

Gifted Endorsed

Roundtrip Bus Transportation

12015 ORANGE GROVE DRIVE TA M PA / F L O R I D A / 3 3 6 1 8

Corbett Campus

(813) 961-3087

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education

...................................................................................................................................................... A tradition of academic excellence & spiritual enrichment for over 60 years

Call today for more information or a personal tour

813-870-3262 A 2011 National Blue Ribbon School

Pre-K 4 through 8th grade

3809 Morrison Avenue • Tampa, Florida 33629 • www.cks-school.org

engineering and mathematics. Electives include sailing, marine science and aviation. Clearwater Academy 801 Drew St., Clearwater 727-446-1722, www.clearwateracademy.org One of the distinct differences that parents and students quickly discover about Clearwater Academy international (CAi) is its overall approach to the subject of education and academics. While the curriculum that a student studies is important, there is another key ingredient to a child’s success at school. The philosophy at CAi is that one of the most important factors in education is consulting the child’s goals and developing a program that best matches his interests and skills. Espiritu Santos Catholic School 2405A Philippe Parkway, Safety Harbor 727-812-4650, www.escschool.org A faith-filled learning community that strives to give students more than an ordinary education . . . a foundation. A foundation in faith. A foundation in academic excellence. A foundation in service. New Horizon Country Day School 2060 Nebraska Ave., Palm Harbor 727-785-8591, www.newhorizonprivateschool.com New Horizons serves kindergarten through fifth grade students. new Horizons limits class size to 15 students. its elementary program is all inclusive with foreign language, music, fitness, computers, weekly trips to the public library, before and after school care, field trips and summer camp. new Horizons accepts the McKay and Florida P.R.i.D.E. scholarships. Its certified VPK program is accredited with the national Private Schools Accreditation Alliance. Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School 730 San Salvador Drive, Dunedin 727-733-3776, www.myoll.com is a forward-thinking, premier educational community that combines tradition with contemporary innovation, inspiring and developing young minds with gospel values to embrace the future God intends. The school offers a Christ-centered education to students in early childhood 4 through eighth grade. Featuring honors and enrichment curricula and 20 competitive sports teams, the school aims to provide every child with an individualized learning experience that enhances and builds his or her God-given talents. Pinellas Education Foundation 12090 Starkey Road, Largo 727-588-4816, www.pinellaseducation.org The Pinellas Education Foundation’s mission is to enhance and improve educational opportunities in Pinellas County Schools. it aims to prepare every student for life after high school, whether the choice is to attend college, enter the workforce or obtain technical training. Saint Cecelia Interparochial Catholic School 1350 Court St., Clearwater 727-461-1200, www.st-cecelia.org

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Come visit Shorecrest’s new 34,000 sq. ft. Athletic Center • Double gymnasium that seats 860 people • Recreational gymnasium • State-of-the-art fitness and training center • 4 Basketball Courts

Shorecrest PREPARATORY SCHOOL PRE-K (AGE 3) THROUGH GRADE 12

• 4 Volleyball Courts

5101 1st St. N.E. St. Petersburg, FL 33703

• 28 Varsity Teams • 20 Middle School Teams • Intramurals, After-care athletics

727-456-7511

www.shorecrest.org

Expect the Best…Beyond the Game!

Join us for our

Jubilee Open House

Sunday January 29 at 10:30 am 730 San Salvador Drive - Dunedin, FL - 727.733.3776

www.myoll.com

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Transforming Teaching And Learning In Pinellas County

Pinellas County recently received a prestigious planning grant from the Ford Motor Company Fund and Workforce Florida aimed at advancing career academy learning throughout Pinellas County schools. Made possible through a partnership with Ford, Workforce Florida, Pinellas County Schools, the Pinellas County Parent Teacher Association, Pinellas Education Foundation and FACTE (Florida Association for Career and Technical Education), the plan will allow for an increase in academy programs in our high schools. Research shows that students enrolled in thematic programs like academies have a higher success rate in school. Students succeed when they are enrolled in coursework thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s relevant!

www.pinellaseducation.org/careers Pinellas County Council

January 2012

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........................................................................................................................................................................................... Pr

ow EK E 3 Nr

—8

ol th liN

g ad E

Educating Global Citizens u u

2011-2012 IB Candidate School MYP National Blue Ribbon Award Winner

Serving students in prekindergarten through eighth grade, Saint Cecelia is a fully accredited school that is based on the traditions and values of the Catholic Church. its excellent academic foundation will prepare students to be responsible and effective members of the world community. Saint Paul’s School 1600 St. Paul’s Drive, Clearwater 727-536-2756, www.st.pauls.edu Serving children in PreK3 through eighth grade. Saint Paul’s broad-based curriculum allows students the opportunity to discover, learn and grow in a nurturing atmosphere of encouragement, challenge and discipline. The result is a foundation of lasting value, with an investment in the unique potential of each individual. Shorecrest Preparatory School 5101 First St. N.E., St. Petersburg 727-522-2111, www.shorecrest.org As Florida’s oldest independent day school, Shorecrest has provided the consummate college preparatory experience to students in preschool through 12th grade. Founded in 1923, highly qualified teachers provide students with the foundation for lifetime achievement; and a 100 percent college acceptance rate illustrates an unwavering commitment to academic excellence.

Pasco Academy at the Lakes 2220 Collier Parkway, Land O’ Lakes 813-909-7919, www.academyatthelakes.org Academy at the Lakes is a learning community of shared values dedicated to the success of each individual at school, in the community and in the world. The school, which serves students in prekindergarten through 12th grade, aims to inspire lifelong learning.

Various Locations Center Academy, Four bay area location www.centeracademy.com Founded in 1968, Center Academy is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and provides a small, safe setting to help students focus, organize and learn. The school accepts students in grades 4-12, providing individualized attention and support. The school also accepts McKay and Step Up scholarships. Club Z, In-Home Tutoring Services 813-620-3764, www.clubztutoring.com Club z in-Home Tutoring Services is the largest in-home tutoring company in the world and works one-on-one with each student to help them achieve. The advantages of learning in your home versus traveling to a learning center can be dramatic when you compare the convenience, affordability and quick results. Discovery Point Child Development Centers 12 bay area locations 800-622-7599, www.discoverypoint.com Discovery Point Child Development Centers offer programs for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years, including the Florida VPK program, summer camp, before and after-school care with pick-up/drop-off service provided to many Tampa-area schools. The centers’ philosophy of caring for children is rooted in the three As: attention, affection and approval. The Goddard School, Two bay area locations 800-463-3273, www.goddardschool.com The Goddard School encourages a child’s lifelong love of learning. Serving children from 6 weeks to 6-years-old, lesson plans are brought to life in fun and imaginative ways in learning centers including music, dramatic play, creative art, science, computers, math and writing. For more schools and learning centers available in your area, visit www.tbparenting.com.

OPEN HOUSE

Wednesday, February 1, 2012 8:30 a.m. & 6:00 P.m.

Presentation by Principal and Tour of the School

1350 Court Street, Clearwater, FL 33756 (727) 461-1207

please call to respond for Open House

www.st-cecelia.org scsoffice@st-cecelia.org

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education

January 2012

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Good Eats

Snack better, live better

No-Calorie Treat

Refresh yourself in 2012 without the unwanted calories! Delicious, zero calories and refreshing, Sparkling iCE combines water, natural fruit juices and six essential vitamins and antioxidants in assorted thirst-quenching flavors. $1.29 SparklingIce.com

Cheese Please With its convenience and versatility, Redâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all-natural quesadillas come in flavors that can be enjoyed by meatlovers and vegetarians alike. $4 RedsAllnatural.com

Dairy-Free Goodness So Delicious Dairy Free coconut milk products are smooth, creamy and utterly delicious. They are soy-free, dairy-free, cholesterol-free, vegan, kosher, non-GMO verified and made with organic coconuts. $8 TurtleMountain.com

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Snack Smart EatSmart naturals offers a tasty approach to snacking with wholesome ingredients that come from nature, without artificial stuff, like preservatives and additives. $4 EatSmartnaturals.com

Truly Delicious

Truebars are a good source of fiber and Omega 3, and are dairy and casein free. These bars, which come in six flavors, are also low in sodium with no trans fat, cholesterol or gluten. $2 BakeryonMain.com

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We All Scream Graeter’s old-fashioned super-premium ice cream has been Cincinnati’s hometown favorite since 1870. The fourthgeneration family-owned company pioneered the French Pot process of making only two gallons at a time with all-natural ingredients. $5 Graeters.com

Better Butter Made from premium California almonds, this is an all-natural, gluten-free peanut butter alternative. $7 BarneyButter.com

Organic Crunch Tea Anyone numi’s Tea Chest offers all 18 of numi’s teas from the popular Gunpowder Green and Aged Earl Grey to more exotic new tastes like Chocolate Puerh, Honeybush and Rooibos Chai. $15 numitea.com

Tasty Bites

These rich, light and crunchy treats are ideal for dunking or eating by themselves. $3.50 nonnis.com

Lundberg’s new line of rice chips are made with USDA certified organic brown rice and offer 17-18 g of whole grains per serving. Plus, they’re wheat-free, gluten-free, vegan, and non-GMO verified. $3.29 Lundberg.com

Just Plain Good

Amy’s, the nation’s leading source of natural and organic convenience food, uses certified organic ingredients, including vegetables, grains and fruits grown without pesticides. Various prices Amys.com

Tailgate in Style Go from amateur to pro status with the Blacktop 360 Party Hub, winner of Best Tailgating Product and Retailer’s Choice Award at The 2011 national Hardware Tradeshow. $250 Blacktop360.com

Gourmet Delight The newest flavor in the Mary’s Gone Crackers cookie line features a rich chocolate cookie scattered with organic dark chocolate chips. $5 MarysGoneCrackers.com

Yummy

yumnuts cashews are baked without oil, and are a good source of protein and seven essential vitamins and minerals. $4.99 yumnutsnaturals.com

January 2012

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

By anna WaHlgren

parenting resolutions for

A new year means new opportunities. Parents tend to get stuck in habits and compromises. By taking control of your situation, the whole family can thrive again. Here are my personal findings, outlined in more detail in my book For The Love Of Children.

Creating healthy sleep patterns for the entire family

Like adults, young children need to know that they are physically safe to be able to sleep at night. Babies know that they are helpless and that they cannot ensure their own survival. Without you to keep the perils of the night at bay, they will never be able to sleep.

2012

Raising independent children through play

i was young and very tired in the mornings after the birth of my first child. At three months, she was only too happy to be put back to bed in spite of the fact that she wasn’t tired. She would spend her time babbling to herself and fencing with her arms and legs. This was a situation i gratefully accepted. i supplied her with what i hoped were inspiring things to look at and left her to her own devices. When she got tired, she just fell back to sleep. Soon a habit developed, one that i wasn’t about to break and finally, the day came when she was playing by herself for two hours.

your duty as the adult is to give answers. However, even when parents continue to pick up and comfort their infants, sleep with them, and feed them around the clock, this constant attention does not always make infants feel safe. Why? Because the parents’ actions are diametrically opposed to the message they are trying to send.

Sometimes she would just sit for a while, deep in thought, before tackling a new problem, and she handled her successes just as independently as she handled her failures.

Their actions say, “Danger threatens. you aren’t safe here.” Finding a balance is the key to better sleep patterns.

When one of her endeavours failed, no one comforted her. no one helped her. Her tenacity and her constant attempts at innovative problem solving impressed me as did her constructive, carefully thought-out solutions.

How much sleep do children need? • At 1 month: 16.5 hours per 24-hour period • At 2 months: 16/24 • At 3-4 months: 15.5/24 • At 5-6 months: 15/24 • At 7-8 months: 14.5/24 • At 9-11 months: 14/24 • At 1-2 years: 13.5/24 • At 3-4 years: 13/24 • At 5-6 years: 12.5/24 • At 7-11 years: 12/24

i think that these solitary morning hours devoted to concentrated, uninterrupted work paved the way for their selfreliance and their attitude toward work and life in general – a job well done is its own reward and obstacles are there to be overcome.

4 steps to take this year

Acknowledging common behavior and finding solutions for the bad

Children are not saints. As a parent, you naturally want to believe that your child will always stick to the straight and narrow and never stoop to stealing, lying, vandalism, slander. Unfortunately, this isn’t how life works. it takes children a long time to internalize the norms, rules and values of whatever society they happen to land in. Explanations aren’t enough for them. They have to learn these norms through hands-on experience. They have to learn these norms through hands-on experience. if you can bring yourself to regard your child’s less attractive tendencies as questions that require answers, you won’t feel obliged to react with outrage. Through your own actions, through consistent consequences and/or punishment, you provide the answer. Just remember that it is always the behavior you are condemning, never the child.

Ensuring a healthy, balanced diet

Whatever problems you are having with children older than 1 with regard to food can be solved with the following program. • Plan the day on the assumption that children, like adults, should eat about every four hours. There should never be less than three whole hours between meals. continued on page 28

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after school

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January 2012

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after school

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PARTY YOURseLF

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• Snacks are a thing of the past. Instead of giving your child snacks between meals augment meals with the snack. Fruit can be served as an appetizer or a meal in itself. Squeezed juice can also be served right before eating.

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• De-dramatize mealtimes! Meals are not status symbols. if you set the most beautiful table and compose the most elaborate meals, of course you won’t be very happy if your kids don’t even look at 10:41 AMit, let alone eat it. if you keep everything as simple as you can, you will find it much easier to sit back and let your child eat his fill in peace. • Simplify the menu! You can serve the same meal day after day. you don’t need to serve foods from every food group at every meal. nor do you need to stimulate your child to eat. Remember, hunger is the best stimulus! Children are creatures of habit. Take advantage of this and offer the same two, or even three, nutritional mainstays every day. • From age 1 and on, your child can eat anything and should be offered the same things to eat that everyone else does. i do not recommend baby food after age 1. • Beware of jumping to conclusions and seeking remedies for problems that may not exist. if you think there may be certain foods that your child cannot tolerate, listen to your gut rather than to other people’s speculations or the fad of the day! if your instincts repeatedly tell you there is something amiss, seek medical advice. • Learn to say no! The kitchen is closed between meals. A young child complaining of hunger pains is of course a heart-wrenching spectacle. However, a child who doesn’t know what real hunger is thinks that a hint of a craving to munch is the same as being hungry, which it isn’t. A glass of water will silence the craving. Real hunger is a precious gem that should be hoarded and then joyfully satisfied by a real meal. Anna Wahlgren is the author of For the Love of Children, a guide to raising healthy and happy children.

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my nAme Is

helen.

And I hAve A mIllIon (And two) reAsons to lIve heAlthIer. When Helen Griffin joined her local Y a few years ago, it was a life-changing experience. Previously overcoming colon cancer, Helenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to fitness has helped her stay healthier, meet lifelong friends and introduce her grandchildren to a love of physical activity through our special needs summer camp.

helen is a real y success story. And you can be one too. to join, stop by your local y today.

no enrollment Fee. The Y helps kids succeed in school and life by promoting youth literacy. And you can help. Donate any new or gently used childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s books to our book drive this January, and your enrollment fee is free. ymcatampabay.org

What’s Happening Under Armour All-America Game

The 2012 Under Armour All-America Game is a competition spotlighting the nation’s top high school seniors. Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, 1 Tropicana Drive, will host this annual tradition in the football world at 8 p.m. Jan. 5. Be there as the nation’s most elite football recruits compete and officially announce their college football destinations live on ESPN. The game, which will feature 90 players from across the country, including some of the top 10 prospects, will be broadcast live nationwide. Visit www.underarmourgame.com to learn more or purchase tickets.

Women of Wesley Chapel

Join the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce for this informational look at female entrepreneurs in the bay area. This month, Founder and Editorial Director of Tampa Bay Parenting Angela Ardolino will discuss her 20-year career as a business owner and her experience in the workforce. Women of Wesley Chapel, also known as WOW, will meet at 7:30 a.m. Jan.6 at Branch of Christ Ministries, 27223 State Road 56, Wesley Chapel. Visit www.wesleychapelchamber.com to learn more. KEN WALTERS’ Inaugural

Roosevelt Rowing Regatta

Head over to historic Plant Park, 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., on Jan. 7 for the inaugural Roosevelt Rowing Regatta. Watch Ivy League schools compete in the oldest intercollegiate sporting event on the Hillsborough River in downtown Tampa. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. enjoy the races while listening to live music, enjoying cocktails and eating lunch from Amore To Go and Malio’s Prime Steakhouse. There’s also a kids’ corner for the little ones. Visit www.rooseveltrowingregatta.com for information on the races or to purchase tickets.

Saturday, January 7, 2012

Stageworks’ Masquerade Ball

Plant Park Grab your poodle skirts, leather jackets and saddle shoes and join Stageworks Theatre on Jan. at Centro at 14 the University of Tampa Asturiano de Tampa, 1913 N. Nebraska Ave., for Greased Lightning, its sixth annual Masquerade Ball. This fundraiser, hosted by Russell Rhodes and Denise White of Fox 13 WTVT, will support the sustainability fund for Stageworks, a nonprofit organization. You and your friends will enjoy a silent auction, dinner and entertainment. Stageworks Theatre, which is celebrating more than 27 years of theater, moved into its new home at Grand Central at Kennedy in 2011. The new facility includes a beautiful lobby, art gallery and 99-seat theater. Visit www.stageworkstheatre.org to purchase tickets.

Preschool Pass

It’s an awesome time to be a preschooler in Florida! Children ages 5 and younger can explore the wonders of Africa and the depths of the ocean for free with the new SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Preschool Pass. The pass is good all year. At Busch Gardens, families can connect with the jungle in Jungala, explore Sesame Street Safari of Fun, and starting in February, experience Iceploration, an all-new, 30-minute show that combines ice skating, puppets and animal stars. Over at SeaWorld Orlando, the littlest guests can enjoy Shamu’s Happy Harbor and an all-new festival, Just for Kids!, featuring concerts by Lazy Town, Max & Ruby, the Doodlebops and Choo-Choo Soul on Saturdays, starting Jan. 14 and running through Feb. 4. For more information or to sign-up, visit www.buschgardenstampabay.com or www.seaworldorlando.com.

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More Friends. Less Money. Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo Annual Pass With an Annual Zoo Pass, you’ll be able to make friends through up-close encounters with animals like giraffe, wallabies, goats, llamas, ponies and many others. And at a low one-time price you can visit them all year, as many times as you’d like! Zoo Pass holders also get discounts on camps, birthday parties, gift shop items and more. You’ll also be invited to exciting special events for all ages. And, if you want to visit your friends and family elsewhere, your Annual Zoo Pass is welcomed with free or discounted admission at more than 150 other zoos and aquariums throughout North America. Spend some quality time with your family this year and make new animal friends along the way. Over 1,500 of them actually.

Connect with the Zoo!

Purchase an Annual Zoo Pass today at LowryParkZoo.com

January 2012

TBParenting.com

greater coverage for

preventive care services

2011

marked an important health care milestone. Under the national health reform legislation known as the Affordable Care Act, health plans now offer members full coverage for a variety of preventive care services without having to pay a copayment or co-insurance or meet deductibles. Preventive care services, such as exams, screenings and immunizations, are a valuable step in your pursuit of health. Prevention is also the best way to avoid illness and save on health care costs. Here are just some of the important health services available to consumers at no additional cost.

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

By carMella M. seBasTIan, MD

for men • • • • • • • •

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm one-time screening for men of specified ages who have ever smoked Alcohol misuse screening and counseling Cholesterol screening for men of certain ages or at higher risk Colorectal cancer screening for those older than 50 Type 2 diabetes screening for those with high blood pressure Diet counseling for those at higher risk for chronic disease Sexually transmitted infection prevention counseling for those at higher risk Tobacco use screening and cessation interventions for tobacco users

for women • • • • • • • •

Breast cancer mammography screenings every one to two years for women older than 40 Breast cancer chemoprevention counseling for women at higher risk BRCA counseling about genetic testing for women at higher risk Cervical cancer screening for sexually active women Chlamydia infection screening for younger women and other women at higher risk Gonorrhea screening for all women at higher risk Osteoporosis screening for women older than 60, depending on risk factors Tobacco use screening and interventions and expanded counseling for pregnant tobacco users

for moms-to-be • • • • • • •

Anemia screening on a routine basis Bacteriuria urinary tract or other infection screening Interventions to support and promote breastfeeding Folic acid supplements for women who may become pregnant Hepatitis B screening during first prenatal visit Rh incompatibility screening for all pregnant women and follow-up testing for women at higher risk Syphilis screening

for children • • • • • • • •

Alcohol and drug use assessments for adolescents Autism screening for children at 18 and 24 months Behavioral assessments for children of all ages Developmental screening for children younger than 3 and surveillance throughout childhood Hearing screening for newborns Immunization vaccines from birth to age 18 Oral health risk assessment for young children Vision screening

A full list of covered preventive services under the Affordable Care Act is at www.healthcare.gov/ law/about/provisions/services/lists.html. Keep in mind that the preventive services provision applies to people enrolled in work-based health plans or individual health insurance policies created after March 23, 2010. These benefits may not be available to individuals enrolled in older plans. you should contact your health plan provider for more details about covered services. Carmella Sebastian is senior medical director of clinical client solutions for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida.

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health & wellness

New Year’s Resolution:

See a doctor that fits into your schedule.

making the most

of a checkup

A yearly physical is important for everyone who wants to achieve better health overall. But how do you make the most of an annual checkup? Bring a pen! Study after study points to the role of doctorpatient communication in achieving better patient outcomes and avoiding medical errors. your doctor will make health and wellness recommendations based in part on what you say about how you live and work. By talking openly and providing the most accurate personal health information, you can ensure that the doctor is able to personalize your care. To help you in your pursuit of greater health, here is a checklist of information to have in writing before, during and after an annual checkup.

before

• List of all the medicines you are taking, including vitamins and herbal supplements • Results of any tests taken since your last visit (blood pressure, cholesterol levels) • List of questions or concerns, including symptoms you may be experiencing

during

• Answers to the questions discussed during the checkup; don’t rely on memory • Notes on upcoming health screenings based on your age, gender and family history

after

• Results of tests taken in the office • Explanation of new or existing health conditions and where to find more information • Clear instructions for taking prescribed medicines

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Source: Carmella M. Sebastian, MD WT Tampa 1/3pg ad.indd 1 8/22/11 3:20:44 PM ...............................................................................................................................................................................................

Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

January 2012

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new beginnings and cherishing each day

By lInDa HurTaDO

very year many of us make new year’s resolutions. We make an effort to do the things we know we should do to live better, smarter or longer. We’ll pledge to lose weight. Or stop smoking. Or maybe we promise to find a better job or pay off a credit card bill. This year i’m only attempting to do one thing, spend more time with my kids, paying attention to all the little details i may have let slip by in years past. Like the fact my baby Jillian Rae is now taller than most of the boys on her soccer team. When did that happen? And my fourth grader is asking me questions about body changes and relationships. Can i sit down and take a deep breath? A health scare in 2011 made me realize 2012 needed to be different. i needed to slow down and appreciate the simple, special moments in life, like that first goal during a soccer game and the little red ribbon handed out for making the honor roll. i was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2011 and from that moment on my life blurred a little. During those first weeks, in the midst of doctor’s appointments and medical tests, i struggled with when and how to tell my beautiful daughters that mommy was more than just a little sick. i knew this would be difficult for two reasons. First, i watched my mother die from breast cancer and the experience traumatized me, even to this day. i was away at the University of Georgia and didn’t even realize she’d been diagnosed with cancer until after her mastectomy. She wanted to spare me the worry and concern but i remember being mad at her. What if something had happened during her surgery and she had died? i had wanted to be there for her, holding her hand and for a long time i resented her making that decision for me. Secondly, a fourth grader at my daughter’s

school had recently been diagnosed with cancer and had lost her hair due to chemotherapy. The school was holding fundraisers and talking openly about the disease. Both my girls were very concerned for their young friend and i could see cancer scared them. Heck, it scared me.

Linda with her daughters Jillian, Jackie, Jenna and Jessica at Christ Church in Lutz.

So what to do? How to tell them? Jorge, my husband and i decided we needed to wait until i could talk about my breast cancer without crying and falling apart. That took literally about two weeks. Then one night i was driving home late after a two-hour talk with a local breast surgeon when Jorge texted me. The two youngest kids knew something was up. They were both scared. We had to tell them that night, but he wanted us to be upbeat and focus on the fact that my cancer was curable. He asked, are you up for that? i then understood my mother’s dilemma. i would not lie but i would not tell them the whole raw truth either for it is a mother’s intuition to protect her young from anything painful. When i walked in, they were waiting for me in the kitchen. I smiled first, and then told them we were all lucky because i had the good cancer, the kind that was caught early and the type surgery could cure. While i know there is no 100 percent guarantee, doctors did tell me my cancer, somewhere between stage 0 and stage 1, would not kill me if i acted right away. So i told the girls i would have surgery to remove both breasts. Boy did that open the door to questions, details so personal it’s not appropriate to share here, but i did answer all their concerns and when that

conversation was over i noticed not one of us had dissolved into uncontrollable tears. We’d made it past the first step, together. next, we had to decide if the girls should be there at the hospital during my surgery. i said no. My mother, in heaven, probably smiled at that one, right? Remember her decision to not tell me until her first surgery was over? But in the end, neither of my girls wanted to be at school while the rest of the family waited for me in the hospital room, so we allowed them to come with us. i will tell you this, when they rolled me into the room after this major surgery, i apparently looked so pale they thought i was dead and both started crying. Jorge tells me i spoke to them, assuring them i was okay, but i don’t remember this. So, did we make the right decision that day? i don’t know. i did ask my older daughter if she wanted to be with me when I had my final surgery to place permanent implants. She asked if i would be grey again. i told her i might and she shook her head no. i only share this with you moms so if you are faced with the same decision one day, you can reflect on this before making your decision. My two girls had very different reactions to my recovery. My eldest, who is 9, helped me blow dry my hair when i couldn’t reach up to touch my head. She helped bathe me and brought me trays of food and drink. My youngest, who is 8, wanted nothing to do with my scars or my struggles. i think she wanted her perfectly healthy mommy back, and i don’t blame her. That’s the mom i wanted to be. But what i have learned is that each child is different and we should allow them to be themselves and deal with stress in their own way. So, as we say hello to a new year and goodbye to one of the most difficult years of my life, I thank God for all of my children. And i promise to cherish each day we have together, holding hands and continuing this beautiful journey of life. Linda Hurtado is the 5pm anchor and medical reporter for ABC Action News. A 12-time Emmy Awardwinning reporter, she met her husband while on assignment in Cuba. When not interviewing local newsmakers, you’ll find her at one of her kids sporting events.

InFOrMaTIOn Taking Action Against Breast Cancer www.breastcancer.org http://web.me.com/lindahurtado/Site/ Welcome.html

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health & wellness

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Extraordinary woman

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

By angela arDOlInO

Mastering the art of motherhood, work and community.

Born in Cuba, Ampy Suarez emigrated to the U.S. with her family in 1967, settling in the Miami area. Early on, Suarez knew she wanted to work with abused children but it wasn’t until her then 8-year-old daughter brought home a friend from school who was in an abusive situation that her call to work with abused children came to fruition.

What is your biggest fear?

Fear has the power to cripple our lives. i have learned to overcome my fears and trust in the Lord even when i don’t understand my circumstances.

What advice would you give to other women?

Live with passion. Dare to take risks and pursue your dreams. you can’t reach for the future while holding on to the past and, as difficult as it may be to face that past, you must do it and find the healing you need. you have a great purpose to fulfill that no one else is meant to fulfill.

This experience reawakened her calling. She was already involved with feeding the homeless and soon began to see the homeless as hurting children who had never had the opportunity to deal with the hurt of child abuse and had turned to drugs and alcohol to dull the pain. Having heard foster care so often in conversations with the homeless, she and her husband, married now for 29 years, became foster parents.

What is your proudest moment?

Her family was forever changed, growing from 3 to 11 children within a few short months. Within a few years, the dream was to help hundreds, possibly thousands, of children. And HOPE youth Ranch was born.

What is your biggest achievement?

HOPE, which stands for Helping Overcome Past Experiences, has been in operation since 2004 serving teens in the foster care system through counseling, equine therapy and private schooling. in 2009, HOPE opened its doors to children in the community with learning disabilities, ADHD and autism through a day program. Suarez is a licensed minister and as the director of educational services at HOPE youth Ranch, she works with children who have known much heartache. yet she feels fortunate to do so. “i couldn’t think of doing anything else with my life.”

What do you think is the secret to your family’s success? The best thing we ever did as parents was to involve our children in our life’s work and instill in them a pursuit of purpose for their own lives. Focusing our children’s eyes on the needs of other children has helped them mature to caring and loving adults who are striving themselves to build careers of service to others.

Reading my oldest daughter’s essay for a college English course where she shared her point of view on sharing her childhood and her parents with foster children. i had worried about the toll that our ministry may have taken on our children. i found that she had received more than she had given. The calling to work with victims of child abuse came from a place of hurt in my own life. The abuse i experienced was emotional and verbal at the hands of a schizophrenic mom who i have come to realize may not have known the pain she was inflicting. Being able to forgive, move on and turn that pain into something good for others has been the best thing i have ever accomplished.

What makes you happy?

others. Focusing on the needs of others will make your own situation seem less daunting and keep you from a place of self-pity and fear.

What else would you like to share with our readers? About being a mom, about your work? Our school is undergoing expansion as word has spread about the success children with autism and learning disabilities are experiencing. Our enrollment has doubled each year since 2009 all by word of mouth. Our work with the foster care program also continues to expand and last month we expanded our services for children in foster care by opening the first of many sibling homes to provide a home for foster children to live together as siblings. in the past year, HOPE was made aware of a growing need in the Tampa Bay area for a residential program for minor victims of sex trafficking. We are working on The Genesis Project. i would like to invite readers to visit our website at www.hopeyouthranch.org and learn more about how they can help in any of these areas.

How do you enjoy or draw information from the magazine? Wow, what a resource for Tampa Bay’s parents. My first experience with the magazine was during a visit to my child’s pediatrician many years ago. The parenting advice, information on family friendly activities and ideas were so very beneficial to me.

i treasure my moments with my children and my grandchildren. At the end of the day, i love coming home and i love to provide that feeling to our children.

What is your favorite thing to do with your kids in Tampa Bay?

How do you relax and take time for yourself?

i had the opportunity to meet Mother Theresa as a teen and i was struck by her humility and sense of focus on her life’s calling despite the obstacles she faced. i love what she said when asked how she felt about the fact that Calcutta, india, after so many years of hard work on her part did not appear to be any different. She responded, “God did not call me to be successful, He called me to be obedient.” She did not measure her success through the eyes of men but through the eyes of her Creator.

My husband and i take a week-long honeymoon cruise every year to keep the fire of our marriage alive and refocus on our own relationship as husband and wife away from the stress of ministry and obligations.

What kind of message would you like to give women in the area or in this community?

In the midst of bad times, financial struggle and pain, look for a way to be of service to

Fishing and watching the sunset.

Who is your biggest inspiration or role model?

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Ampy Suarez

Suarez with Doc at HOPE Youth Ranch in Hudson. Photo by Kymberly Boswell Photography

January 2012

TBParenting.com

north hillsborough

................................................................................................................... carrOllWOOD, cITrus park, luTz, neW TaMpa, ODessa, TeMple Terrace, WesTcHase

Neighborhood Pharmacy Has New Locale For local families who frequent Carrollwood Compounding Center & Pharmacy, December brought a change of scenery for the long-time neighborhood fixture. Carrollwood Pharmacy was one of the earliest businesses to open in Carrollwood 46 years ago, but owner and pharmacist Dan Fucarino says its move to 11775 n. Dale Mabry Highway was necessary. “We require more space. We’re busting at the seams with 12 employees,” he says. “We’re in the process of achieving the highest level of board certification in pharmaceutical compounding. Our new store dedicates more floor space to our compounding lab.” The new 2,500-square-foot location will offer area families greater access to nutrition and health information, including the addition of Christine Miller, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator. She will provide individualized nutritional consultations to customers based on a thorough evaluation of a patient’s health status, medications, unique dietary needs and any necessary lab tests. Starting this month, Carrollwood Compounding Center & Pharmacy will host Healthy you educational workshops open to the public presenting information about a variety of health and wellness topics. Visit www.carrollwoodpharmacy.com or call 813-961-8798 for information.

Juniorettes Meet Challenge to Help Needy Recently, the second annual Empty Cup Challenge took place at the Publix in Tampa Palms, during which Juniorettes gathered to compete for this year’s award on behalf of families receiving assistance from the new Tampa Junior Woman’s Club Special Santa program. Each participant started with $10 and was required to buy nonperishable ingredients to feed a family of four on Christmas Eve. Participants used coupons and instore specials as needed to meet the demands of the challenge, and the participant able to purchase the most servings of food with $10 would be declared the winner. This year’s Empty Cup victors were, from left, Jessica Korver, third place; Torrie Edwards, first place; and Ashlyn Collins, second place.

This year’s winner Torrie Edwards purchased 52 servings with $10. Ashlyn Collins finished second with 47. Jessica Korver placed third with 42 servings. Participants were required to purchase a meat, two vegetables, a starch, dessert and drinks. Challengers could assume that common household seasonings and condiments, such as salt, pepper or ketchup, would be available and that families would not have a source for refrigeration. All food was donated to local needy families. “The girls did an amazing job. i’m so proud of them” said Patricia Murphy, adviser for the Juniorettes, “Part of the reason i support this project is it teaches the girls how hard it is for the Special Santa families to make ends meet. They see how far a dollar really goes and the importance of the purchasing choices we make.” GFWC new Tampa Juniorettes is accepting new members ages 12-18 from new Tampa, Tampa Palms and Tampa. For more information, visit www.gfwcnewtampajuniors.org/juniorettes or call 813-991-6152.

dates:

Jan. 6-28, various times The Odd Couple Catch this female version of the Neil Simon classic as characters Florence Unger and Olive Madison take the stage at Carrollwood Players Theater, 4333-5 Gunn Highway, Tampa. Visit www.carrollwoodplayers.org for times and cost. Jan. 8, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Seminole Heights Sunday Morning Market Go local at this outdoor marketplace, open the second Sunday of each month through May at Hillsborough High, 5000 N. Central Ave., Tampa. Free admission. www.oldseminoleheights.org Jan. 8, various times Isometrics for Ionic Energy Put on your fitness gear and head to MOSI, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa, for a one-hour, high-energy, hip-hopping class featuring age-appropriate isometrics to tune up the mind, body and spirit. Adult classes are at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m..; families meet at 1 p.m.; and seniors meet at 3 p.m. Cost: $8 members and $6 nonmembers. www.mosi.org Jan. 22, 2 p.m. Beauty & the Beast Enjoy the musical adaptation of this classic tale at Play’N Around Theatre. Tickets are $6 for members and $7 for nonmembers. Family fourpack available for $24. www.carrollwoodcenter.org Jan. 24, 6:30-9 p.m. Chinese New Year Celebration Take in an exciting cultural celebration in the USF Marshall Student Center ballroom, 4202 E. Fowler Ave., MSC 4100, Tampa. Event features performances, refreshments and cultural games. 813-974-6656. Jan. 31, 4:30-7 p.m. After School Teen Movie Matinee Your teen can watch a flick with friends at the North Tampa Branch Library, 8916 N. Boulevard. Groups can register in advance at 813-273-3652.

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health & wellness

IKEA Tampa

Kids’ Academy When school is out, get in on the fun at the

IKEA Tampa Kids’ Academy!

Featuring FREE activities, FREE meal and FREE IKEA Tampa Kids’ Academy t-shirt for kids under 12 years old who attend.* Activities last 20 minutes and start at 11 am, then repeat at 1 pm, 3 pm, 5 pm and 7 pm.

January 16 & 17 - Calling all little pirates! Decorate an IKEA blue bag for collecting your Children’s Gasparilla Extravaganza treasures. February 10 - A ‘picture perfect’ pirate! Adorn a RAM frame for your favorite Children’s Gasparilla Extravaganza photo. March 5 - Celebrate the Florida Strawberry Festival by making your own yummy strawberry short cake. March 12 - Welcome Spring in Swedish style by making Påskris (twigs decorated with colorful feathers) with us. March 13 - Meet McGruff the Crime Dog and learn safety tips from the Tampa Police Department. March 14 - Create your very own flower – like the colorful blooms in May! March 15 - Celebrate the arrival of Spring--create a dessert blossoming with edible delights. March 16 - Make a shamrock shaped puzzle for luck all year. April 6 - Get ready for Easter! Have fun decorating eggs with us. May 28 - Make a flag for your special Memorial Day celebration. Enjoy a FREE pre-parade breakfast on Jan. 21st between 9:30 am11 am, then watch for us at the Children’s Gasparilla Extravaganza along Bayshore Blvd. to get lot’s of fun FREE treasures! ®

For more information, please visit IKEA-USA.com/Tampa or call 813-623-5454 1103 North 22nd Street| Tampa, FL 33605 *Meal, activity and t-shirt offer valid for children under 12 years old, while supplies last. No adult purchase necessary. Choose from 3 combo meals that are available from 11 am to 8 pm. One meal per child; dine-in only. One t-shirt per child, per 12 month period. Child must be present to get t-shirt and is encouraged to wear it at all IKEA Tampa Kids’ Academy events.

January 2012

TBParenting.com

south hillsborough

................................................................................................................... apOllO BeacH, BranDOn, lITHIa, rIvervIeW, ruskIn, sOuTH TaMpa, TaMpa, valrIcO, FIsHHaWk

Gala Features Top International Dance Students, Performers The world’s largest student ballet and contemporary dance competition, youth America Grand Prix, launches its 2012 season by co-producing the Stars of Today Meet the Stars of Tomorrow Gala at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 22 in Ferguson Hall at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa. The gala, hosted by ABC Action news’ Lissette Campos, features performances by international ballet stars and introduces the world’s brightest young dance talent. These include today’s stars from some of the leading international dance companies, including Daniel Ulbricht, principal dancer for the new york City Ballet and Jeanette Delgado, principal dancer for the Miami City Ballet.

Daniel Ulbricht of the New York City Ballet performs at last year’s Youth America Grand Prix Gala at New York City Center.

Through Jan. 8, regularly-priced tickets start at $16.50. Starting Jan. 9, this increases to $18.50. Stars of Today Meet the Stars of Tomorrow has been hailed as the highlight of the season by new york Post critic Clive Barnes.

For more information or to purchase tickets, call 813-229-7827 or 1-800-955-1045 outside Tampa or visit www.strazcenter.org.

Do You Know a Future Hall of Famer? nomination forms are available at www.hillsboroughcounty.org/statusofwomen for the 2012 Hillsborough County Women’s Hall of Fame, with all submissions due by Jan. 15. The Commission on the Status of Women created the Hillsborough County Women’s Hall of Fame to recognize women who have made significant contributions to the betterment of life for residents of Hillsborough County and will select as many as three nominees to receive the honor. Winners will be announced at a Hillsborough County Commission meeting in March, with a formal induction in May. The charter class of 10 accomplished women inducted into the Women’s Hall of Fame in May 2011 featured a who’s who of bay area political and community leaders and included: Mary T. Cash, Florida’s first black registered nurse; Betty Castor, the first woman to serve on county commission and the first woman president of USF; Helen Gordon Davis, the first woman elected to Florida’s House of Representatives; Cecile Waterman Essrig, the first woman elected to the Hillsborough County School Board;·Pat Collier Frank, county commissioner, state legislator and Clerk of Court; Sandy Warshaw Freedman, first woman mayor of Tampa; Clara C. Frye, founder of the county’s first black hospital; Adela Hernandez Gonzmart, co-founder of The Columbia Restaurant and Ballet Folklorico of Ybor City; Sylvia Rodriquez Kimball, the first black woman to serve on county commission; and Sadye Gibbs Martin, educator and first woman mayor of Plant City. The Commission on the Status of Women is comprised of 13 members and was created by the Hillsborough Board of County Commissioners in 2003. For more information or to obtain a printed nomination form, contact Brandon Wagner of the Commission on the Status of Women at 813-276-2640.

dates: Jan. 4, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Mayor’s Food Truck Fiesta Mingle with mayor Bob Buckhorn while supporting local restaurants and flavors at downtown Tampa’s new monthly food experience, adjacent to Lykes Gaslight Square Park. www.facebook.com/mayorsfoodtruckfiesta Jan. 6-8, 13-15, various times • Aida Catch this memorable Elton John and Tim Rice musical collaboration in a production by the Showcase Players at Music Showcase, 402 Oakfield Drive, Brandon. Times: 7 p.m. Friday through Sunday and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Cost is $10 for adults and $8 for youth, seniors and military. www.musicshowcaseonline.com Jan. 8, noon – 3 p.m. • Open House at Montessori Children’s House of Hyde Park Gather information about various programs for children ages 3-12 at this informative event for the whole family at 2416 Cleveland St. www.hydeparkmontessori.com Jan. 10 & Jan. 24, various times MOPS Meetings Join the Mothers of Preschoolers, an international, faith-based organization uniting local moms for fellowship and support, as they meet up twice monthly at Hyde Park United Church, 500 W. Platt St., Tampa. Times: 9:30-11 a.m. and 6:30-8 p.m. www.hydeparkumc.org/ connect/children/families-parenting Jan. 25, 11:30 a.m. – 1:15 p.m. • Women’s Series Luncheon: Professional Multitasking Attend this event at Maestro’s Restaurant at the Straz Center, 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa. Dr. Catherine Lynch, is guest speaker. Cost is $50 for members and $60 for nonmembers. Register online by Jan. 20. www.tampachamber.com Jan. 25, 7 p.m. • Tampa Prep Open House Learn about the curriculum, athletics, arts and other activities available to students at Tampa Preparatory School, 727 W. Cass St., Tampa. Free. Guests are asked to arrive by 6:45 p.m. www.tampaprep.org

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health & wellness

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January 2012

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north pinellas

..................................................................................................................... clearWaTer, DuneDIn, easT lake, OlDsMar, palM HarBOr, saFeTy HarBOr, TarpOn sprIngs

Foundation Seeks Leaders of Tomorrow The Bank of America Charitable Foundation is accepting applications until Jan. 25 for its 2012 Student Leader Program. Each year, the program recognizes five Pinellas high school juniors or seniors for their commitment to making a difference in their communities. The program, which has recognized more than 1,600 exemplary high school juniors and seniors nationwide, helps students gain a greater understanding of how nonprofits can create local impact. it is designed to help develop them as the next generation of community leaders through two components: an eight-week paid summer internship with selected nonprofit organizations and a week-long, all-expense paid trip to the Student Leadership Summit in Washington in partnership with the Close Up Foundation. This year the summit is July 15-20. During the summer internships, students will develop and apply leadership skills through handson work experience. The summit introduces students to aspects of civic, social and business leadership and provides them with knowledge and skills they will use throughout their life to create positive community change. Visit www.bankofamerica.com/foundation for more information or to apply.

Girl Scouts Hit the Ice with the Pros

dates: Jan. 5, 9 a.m. Epiphany Golf Tournament Tee up for a good cause at Wentworth Golf Club, 2990 Wentworth Way, Tarpon Springs. Entry fee includes lunch and awards. Cost is $75 per person. Proceeds benefit American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association. www.ahepa.org Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Green Market Stock up on local produce and organic items at the Dunedin Green in Pioneer Park, Douglas Avenue and Main Street. Free admission. 727-733-4215. Jan. 11, 7:30 p.m. Golden Dragon Acrobats Prepare to be dazzled by this spectacular demonstration of Chinese acrobatics and traditional dance at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center, 324 Pine St. Cost: $28 for members and $24 for students. www.tarponarts.org

More than 100 Girl Scouts took to the ice for a fun, empowering learning experience with the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Recently, more than 100 local Girl Scouts in grades 2 through 9 had an opportunity to play ice hockey with the Tampa Bay Lighting and meet former players David Andreychuk and Brian Bradley. The girls received access to all necessary hockey gear and were shown how to properly dress in uniform, stand on skates, hold a stick, skate and shoot on goal. Each girl also received a ticket to return to watch the Lightning take on the new Jersey Devils. “We’re excited to partner with the Tampa Bay Lightning to bring this event to girls from throughout the bay area,” says Maureen Cacioppo of the Girl Scouts of West Central Florida. “it’s a great way to introduce girls to something they may never have tried before. it’s awesome!” The Girl Scouts of West Central Florida (GSWCF) serve nearly 22,000 girls and 11,000 adult members in Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Marion, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk and Sumter counties. For more information, visit www.gswcf.org or call 1-800-881-4475.

Jan. 13, 6-8 p.m. Doggie Date Night Pack up the whole family for a fun evening of fresh air and socializing for all, including Fido, at Safety Harbor City Park, 940 7th St. S. Free admission. www.cityofsafetyharbor.com Jan. 14-15, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Downtown Dunedin Art Festival Browse beautiful handmade crafts during this annual event showcasing more than 150 of the country’s most talented artists, starting at 271 Main Street. Free admission. www.artfestival.com Jan. 25, 12:30 p.m. Community Lunch Social Lunch and learn, with guest speakers covering topics such as nutrition, travel and more at the North Pinellas YMCA, 4550 Village Center Drive, Palm Harbor. Event is free and open to the public. RSVP at 727-772-9622. www.ymcasuncoast.org

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Wouldn’t it be nice to find one physician for your child… and you? You can. Trust us with the health of your whole family. We’re experienced, compassionate and close to home. • Immediate appointments available • Quality board-certified physicians

Julie Anderson, MD, Elizabeth Brooke Orr, MD, Allen Kuhn, MD, and Charisse Record, MD and Deepa Verma, MD • Accepting patients age 2 and older • Accepting patients newborn and older 4140 Woodlands Parkway, Suite B, Palm Harbor (727) 773-1013

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Beth Carlson, MD, and David Francis, MD • Dr. Carlson: accepting patients age 2 and older • Dr. Francis: accepting patients newborn and older 12046 Indian Rocks Road, Unit 103, Largo (727) 596-9490

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January 2012

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south pinellas

....................................................................................................................... largO, pInellas park, seMInOle, sT. peTe BeacH, sT. peTersBurg, Treasure IslanD

Shorecrest Hosts Gift Drive for Guardian Ad Litem

dates: Jan. 3-10, various times Move It 2 Lose It Take part in a week-long promotion to kick off a healthy new year with more than 40 free fitness classes at three Largo recreational facilities: Highland Recreation Complex (400 Highland Ave.), Southwest Recreation Complex (13120 Vonn Road) and Largo Community Center (400 Alt. Keene Road). www.playlargo.com

By the end of the holiday drive event, Shorecrest’s Crisp Gymnasium was filled with bikes, toys, clothes, and more.

Recently, Shorecrest Preparatory School held its annual holiday gift drive. All students at the St. Petersburg school took part in the fundraiser, which benefits the Guardian Ad Litem program. Students and their families donated bicycles, home appliances, toys, clothes and baby accessories to fill up Crisp Gymnasium. For more information about this and other programs at Shorecrest Prep, visit www.shorecrest.org or call 727-522-2111.

Early Childhood Music Center Expands Offerings you and Me & Music Together will expand its family music offerings this month with Music Together Big Kids. The Big Kids program is designed for children ages 5-7 and their parents or caregivers. The 10-week program will be at 4 p.m. Thursdays beginning Jan. 7 on the second floor of Thank you Mama, 1511 Fourth St. n. in St. Petersburg. Colleen McGrath, director of you and Me and Music Together says she plans to expand the program to Tampa and Clearwater. “Parents regularly ask me what the next step is for their children graduating from our family classes at age 5. it’s great to be able to offer them the next layer in music learning,” she says. Kenneth Guilmartin and Lili Levinowitz, developers of the internationally acclaimed Music Together program, developed the Big Kids program to extend children’s music development and related cognitive, social and motor development. Like the family Music Together programs for children from birth to age 5, the Big Kids program is based on extensive child development research but is also designed to be engaging and fun. The early age Music Together classes focus on developing music competence. Music Together Big Kids expands on that concept by blending the elements of Music Together that parents and children love with new activities, skills and challenges. For more information, visit www.youandmeandmt.com or call 813-409-4244.

Jan. 12-29, various times Passengers Catch Sam Bobrick’s zany encounters at the ticket counter at the Venue Ensemble Theatre, 9125 U.S. 19 N., Pinellas Park. Portion of ticket proceeds benefit Homeless Emergency Project. Cost is $15. www.venueactorstudio.org Jan. 16, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. • St. Petersburg Guild Fashion Show & Luncheon Attend this annual luncheon and fashion show featuring the fashions of So Chic hosted by the All Children’s Hospital-St. Petersburg Guild at the hospital’s education conference center, 701 Fourth St. S., St. Petersburg. Tickets are $35. For reservations, call 727-410-4176 by Jan. 10. www.allkids.org Jan. 23, 2 & 7 p.m. Women Fully Clothed Watch this hilarious comedy show featuring four of Canada’s most celebrated comedians as they tackle topics from mother-daughter relationships to career at this event hosted by the Largo Lions Club at Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive. Tickets are $22. www.largoarts.com Jan. 25, 6:30-8 p.m. Parenting Workshop Learn to navigate the power struggles between parents and children as 1 Minute Mommy presents Power Struggles Across the Ages at First Unity Campus, 460 46th Ave. N., St. Petersburg. Cost is $10 per person or $18 per couple. www.unitycampus.org Jan. 28-29, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. St. Pete Beach Corey Area Art & Craft Festival Check out an eclectic mix of original art and handmade goods at this popular outdoor craft showcase at 595 Corey Avenue. Free admission. www.artfestival.com

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Candy College Now Enrolling!

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January 2012

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pasco

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

DaDe cITy, lanD O’ lakes, neW pOrT rIcHey, pOrT rIcHey, TrInITy, Wesley cHapel, zepHyrHIlls

Nonprofit Seeks Help for Annual Fundraiser The Alzheimer’s Family Organization will be holding its annual Alberta’s Fashion Show this summer and is looking for committee members to assist in the planning. The organization’s first committee meeting is 8:30 a.m. Jan. 17 at Emeritus @ La Casa Grande, 6400 Trouble Creek Road in new Port Richey. Please RSVP at 727-848-8888 or toll-free at 1-888-496-8004. The Alzheimer’s Family Organization services the central Florida area, including Citrus, Hernando, northern Hillsborough, Lake, Pasco, northern Pinellas and Sumter counties. Visit www.alzheimersfamily.org for more information.

Calling All Artists The Pasco Arts Council is seeking submissions for the 2012 Pasco Annual Art Exhibition. This judged competition is open to professional and amateur artists, ages 18 and older. Up to 60 works of art will be accepted in the order received and subject to these guidelines: • Each artist may submit one entry, selecting from these categories: drawing and pastel; fine craft (clay, fiber, glass, metal, wood); mixed media; painting; photography; and sculpture. • All art must be original and the artist must have directly created the work in the designated medium. • All art must have been completed within the past two years and cannot have been exhibited previously at PAC. • Entries cannot exceed 40 inches in any dimension (inclusive of framing, attached bases). • Two-dimensional work must be framed or museumwrapped and equipped with a secure hanging wire; no saw-tooth hangers are allowed. Three-dimensional work must be self-supporting. • The entry fee is $20 for artists with PAC membership and $30 for nonmembers. new and renewing memberships can be purchased at the time of entry for $35 for individuals and $50 for family memberships. • Artists may drop off their entries at the PAC office Jan. 3-14 during PAC’s normal operating hours, which are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday and Saturday. • Cash prizes will be awarded to “Best of Show” and “Best of Category” at the discretion of the judge. The judge will also have the option of selecting up to six Honorable Mention awards. The exhibition will be open to the public at the PAC building, 5744 Moog Road, Holiday, beginning Jan. 24. An awards reception will be announced at the time of artist registration. Visit www.pascoarts.org to learn more.

dates: Jan. 6-Feb. 26, various times Hairspray Dance in your seats and be swept away by 1960s Baltimore and this beloved comedy musical when it premieres at Show Palace Dinner Theatre, 16128 U.S. 19, Hudson. Tickets are $49.50 plus tax for dinner and show; and $38.45 for show only. 727-863-7949. www.showpalace.net Jan. 7, 3-8 p.m. Dade City Cruise-In Bring along the family to admire antique cars, enjoy classic tunes and check out local restaurants and other vendors in Downtown Dade City around the historic courthouse. Event held first Saturday of each month (except July and August). Free admission. 352-567-3769. Jan. 12-Feb. 16, various times The Painter of Women Exhibit Check out the latest exhibit in the PascoHernando Community College art gallery, 10230 Ridge Road, New Port Richey. The Melanie Feldman collection is inspired by self-expression. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday. Free admission. www.phcc.edu/gallery Jan. 17, 9 a.m. Academy at the Lakes Open House See first-hand what makes up the student experience for grades 5-12 at the school, 2331 Collier Parkway, Land O’ Lakes. Tour the school, meet faculty members, and ask questions. www.academyatthelakes.org Jan. 20, 6-8 p.m. Annual Teen Talent Show Sign up your teen to for this annual showcase at the Land O Lakes Public Library, 2818 Collier Parkway. Come cheer on the participants and see who takes top honors. 813-929-1214 Jan. 28, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Annual Kumquat Festival Browse crafts, food, art and more during this 15th annual event in downtown Dade City that celebrates the little fruit with the funny name. Enjoy children’s activities and live music and take part in races and recipe contests. www.dadecitychamber.org

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January 2012

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and the safe adults in their lives that will enable children to hope for a safe and happy childhood.

protecting our

children

Created in 1997 by Edward E. Burr, the Monique Burr Foundation for Children Inc. is a nonprofit organization with a mission of providing child abuse prevention education throughout the state. The organization offers child abuse prevention and safety education through Speak Up Be Safe. Geared toward first through fifth-graders, the education program addresses safety from abuse, bullying and cyberbullying as well as internet and technology safety. it also provides resources for parents and school personnel. The curriculum is taught in two sessions and focuses on five safety rules: • • • • •

speakIng up anD OuT agaInsT aBuse

.................................. Each year in the United States, 3.2 million children are reported as being abused or neglected, yet much abuse goes unreported, leaving in its wake untold emotional and physical damage to the victim into adulthood and possibly allowing the abuse to repeat itself in future generations. There is also a substantial economic cost to society. Total annual direct and indirect costs in the U.S. related to child abuse and neglect are an estimated $103.8 billion. in recent years, Florida has ranked fourth in the nation for confirmed cases of child maltreatment, including physical and sexual abuse and neglect. in Hillsborough and Pasco counties, there are more than 20,000 reports of abuse and neglect each year. Education for both children and adults is the most effective form of prevention, and reporting child abuse or suspected child abuse is an important form of secondary prevention. if the reported abuse is confirmed or substantiated, it does two things: stop the abuse from happening and prevent the perpetrator from offending against other children. Florida is one of only 18 states where every citizen is considered a mandatory reporter. The law reads, “anyone with reasonable cause to suspect abuse or neglect shall report to their local Department of Children & Families office.” Call 1-800-962-2873 to report abuse.

By lynn layTOn

Physical and emotional abuse and neglect are not the only dangers ourchildren face each day. Bullying and cyberbullying are on the rise and there is a new epidemic of suicides as a result of bullying. Studies show that 42 percent of kids have been bullied while online, and suicide rates among 10-14-year-olds have risen by more than 50 percent in the past three decades. Many parents make the mistake of thinking internet safety rules will keep their kids safe from these forms of abuse; however, younger and younger kids are getting smart phones with apps that are more powerful than the laptop at home. Parents must educate themselves on what is accessible on their child’s cellphone and teach their kids how to use that technology safely. Since child abuse is often unnoticed and underreported, it is critical that we empower and educate children and all of the relevant adults in their lives with the knowledge and confidence to recognize and communicate about abuse and unsafe situations. it is this very education and the subsequent communication between children

It’s my body Ask an adult if I am safe I have choices Tell someone It’s never my fault

The curriculum also encompasses internet and digital safety. Students receive items used to educate and engage their parents or caregivers and reinforce important concepts. Additionally, the foundation provides community resources regarding safety and abuse prevention. Speak Up Be Safe was developed by the Monique Burr Foundation and Childhelp through a partnership with Arizona State University. Designed to meet Florida Statute 39 and more than 90 Florida Sunshine State Standards, the program was implemented in collaboration with the Florida Education Cooperative Planning Team, consisting of the Governor’s Office, Department of Education, Department of Health, Department of Children & Families, Ounce of Prevention and other sponsors and partners. During the 2010-11 school year, the beta and pilot phases of the program were implemented in Hillsborough, Pasco, Clay and Duval counties, reaching more than 20,000 Florida schoolchildren. During the 2011-12 school year, the program will be in eight counties, with 177 trained and active facilitators in the Tampa Bay area using the program to reach more than 30,000 students. To learn about additional ways you can help prevent child abuse and give a child hope, visit www. moniqueburrfoundation.org or call 904-642-0210. Lynn Layton is the executive director of the Monique Burr Foundation for Children Inc.

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around town

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TO see MOre pHOTOs vIsIT FaceBOOk.cOM/TaMpaBayparenTIngMagazIne

23rd Annual Celebrity Holiday Fashion Show in support of St. Joseph’s Hospitals Foundation : Left, Regional Marketing Director for BayCare Health System Kim Marlatt, Liza Zock, Dena Brannen, Devon Murray, Lisa Patterson, Katherine Durham, Stewart Schaffer, Laurel St. Claire and Cassandra Verbo. Right, Warren Rogers, Wanda Mason, President and CEO of BayCare Health System Steve Mason, Suzanne Kirkman and Donna Daley.

23rd Annual Celebrity Holiday Fashion Show in support of St. Joseph’s Hospitals Foundation : Left, Founder and Editorial Director Angela Ardolino with Amy Gall and Lisa Patterson of St. Joseph’s Hospital. Center, Founder and Editorial Director Angela Ardolino, Vikki Kaiser of Panera Bread Company and Shani Haught. Right, Angeles Ferlita and her dear friend.

23rd Annual Celebrity Holiday Fashion Show in support of St. Joseph’s Hospitals Foundation : Runway fashions by Georgette’s Boutique in South Tampa.

2012 Great American Teach In at Seminole Heights Elementary : Left, Melanie, Esmeralda, S’Jeanna, Mackenzie, Casen, Timothy, Cherish, Iadainian, Mariah, Chelsea, Oscar, A’Niyah, Hayley, Quinton and Harmony joined by their teacher Mrs. Lauren Cummings and Catherine Pylant. Right, Ethan, Gabriel, Joe, Ariana, Nariianna, Sofia, Heaven, Aleciah, Ilijah, Elizabeth, Alex, Shaun, Joey, Jace and Mikael joined by their teacher Mrs. Katie Davison and Catherine Pylant.

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january calendar events/festivals Outback Bowl• Jan. 2, 1 p.m. Cheer on the Michigan State Spartans or Georgia Bulldogs as this bowl season tradition returns to Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. Tickets are $75. www.outbackbowl.com Everyone $2 Target Tuesdays Jan. 3, 2-6 p.m. Pack up the whole family for a visit to the Glazer Children’s Museum, 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza, downtown Tampa. www.glazermuseum.org Everyone Ringing Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents Dragons Jan. 4- 8, various times Check out this once in a millennium event celebrating the year of the dragon as circus performers assemble to showcase their astounding acts of athleticism and bravery at the St. Pete Times Forum. Tickets are $16-$85. www.stpetetimesforum.com Everyone Under Armour Football Game Jan. 5, 8 p.m. Root for 90 of the nation’s elite high school football players as they demonstrate their skills and talents for this exhibition game at Tropicana Field in downtown St. Petersburg. Tickets start at $18. www.allamericagame.com Everyone Florida’s Largest Home Show Jan. 6-8, various times Browse more than 1,200 exhibits highlighting new products and services at the Tampa Convention Center in downtown Tampa. Times: 11 a.m. to

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FOr MOre evenTs, vIsIT TBparenTIng.cOM

6 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday; and 11 a.m.to 6 p.m. Sunday. Cost: $8 adults, $7 seniors and free for kids 12 and younger. www. bighomeshow.com Moms, Dads Roosevelt Rowing Regatta Jan. 7, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Pick out a good spot inside Plant Park to watch some of the best intercollegiate rowers compete along the Hillsborough River. Party offers live music, cocktails, a kid’s corner and three dining options – picnic boxed lunches, brunch stations or seated brunch. www.rooseveltrowingregatta. com Everyone

per household, including materials. 813-7445519, Ext. 54105. Moms, Dads Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival Gala Jan. 13, 6 p.m. Enjoy live entertainment at this chic, semi-formal soiree featuring a reception, production of Black Violin and post-show reception in Ferguson Hall at downtown Tampa’s Straz Center. Cost is $40. Service fee when tickets purchased online; fee waived by phone with promo code BHFEST. 813-229-7827. www.strazcenter.org Moms, Dads

Heartstrings for Life • Jan. 7, 11 a.m. – noon Meet a Sickles High graduate and internationally acclaimed violin virtuoso as he shares his courageous life journey and victory over cancer at MOSi, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. Cost: $5 members and $7 nonmembers. www.mosi.org Moms, Dads

Gasparilla: A Tampa Tradition Jan. 13-Feb. 19, various times Study Gasparilla’s rich history at this enlightening exhibit at Henry Plant Museum, 401 W. Kennedy Blvd. See vintage photographs and memorabilia and learn about the origins of the Krewe of Gasparilla. Cost: $10 adults, $7 seniors/students, $5 kids 4-12 and free for members. www. plantmuseum.com Everyone

Lakeshore Learning Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Bring the kids for free crafts every Saturday at 4501 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa. This month’s activities are kid-crafted calendar (Jan. 7); hand in hand flower (Jan. 14); anchors aweigh floating boat (Jan. 21); and groundhog puppet (Jan. 28). www. lakeshorelearning.com/freecrafts4kids 4 & Older

Children’s Village at Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival • Jan. 14, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Stop by Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park for activities for the whole family hosted by the Glazer Children’s Museum as part of the popular two-day family festival. Admission to children’s village is free; other festival events are individually priced. www.tampablackheritage.org Everyone

Sustainable Landscape Design Workshop Jan. 10-Feb. 21, 10 a.m. – noon Learn sustainable landscape basics during this seven-week workshop through the Hillsborough County Extension program at its Seffner office, 5339 County Road 579. Register at http:// landscapeforbeginners2012.eventbrite.com; $25

Festival of Chocolate • Jan. 14-16, various times Sample all things chocolate at MOSi, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa, during Florida’s largest chocolatethemed shopping, educational and interactive experience. Enjoy tastings, view interactive demonstrations and learn about the science behind chocolate. Free with MOSi admission. www. festivalofchocolate.com 6 & Older Just for Kids Festival Jan. 14-Feb. 4, various times Bring the whole family to Sea World Orlando Saturdays this month for special performances by kids’ entertainers, including LazyTown, Max & Ruby, the Doodlebops and Choo-Choo Soul. The concerts at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily are included with park admission. www.seaworld. com Everyone National MLK Jr. Battle of the Bands & Parade • Jan. 15-16, various times

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

Join the celebration as the 27th annual Drum Major for Justice Battle of the Bands and Drum Line Extravaganza hits Tropicana Field, One Tropicana Drive, St. Petersburg. Cost: $10 advance and $12 day of event. Visit www. mlknationalparade.org for event times. Everyone IKEA Tampa Kids’ Academy • Jan. 16-17, various times When school is out, get in on the fun at iKEA Tampa Kids’ Academy, featuring free activities, a free meal and a free T-shirt for kids younger than 12. Activities last 20 minutes and start at 11 a.m., repeating at 1, 3, 5 and 7 p.m. This month, decorate an iKEA blue bag for collecting Gasparilla treasures. www. ikea.com/us/en/store/tampa/activities 4 & Older East-West Shrine Game Hall of Fame/Player Banquet • Jan. 20, 6:30 p.m. Attend this annual celebration to honor the East-West Shrine Game players and Hall of Fame inductees at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg. Tickets are $60. www. shrinershospitalsforchildren.org Dads McDonald’s Children’s Gasparilla Extravaganza • Jan. 21, 3:30-6 p.m. Dress up your little swashbucklers for familyfriendly fun along Tampa’s Bayshore Boulevard. Day features a bicycle and pedestrian safety rodeo, preschooler’s stroll, air invasion, children’s parade and fireworks display. www. gasparillaextravaganza.com Everyone Facial Rejuvenation Jan. 26, 6-8:30 p.m. Stop by Benedetti Cosmetic Surgery at 900 Carillon Parkway, Suite 409, St. Petersburg, for a complimentary skin consultation and information on cosmetic procedures for facial rejuvenation. Enjoy wine, appetizers and discounted services. RSVP by Jan. 24 at 727-289-7119. Moms Universoul Circus Jan. 27-29, various times Dance in the aisles and sing along to this

electrifying, interactive musical event outside Tampa’s Raymond James Stadium. Tickets are $15-$28. www.universoulcircus.com Everyone Gasparilla Parade of the Pirates Jan. 28, 2-5:30 p.m. Get ready for a parrrty as pirates take over the downtown Tampa Bay area with this celebration led by ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla along Bayshore Boulevard. www.gasparillapiratefest. com 10 & Older Charity Ball Jan. 28, 6-11:30 p.m. Attend this benefit gala hosted by the All Children’s Hospital Guild Evening Branch at the Renaissance Vinoy in St. Petersburg. Enjoy live entertainment, food and libations as well as live and silent auctions. Cost is $250 per person. For tickets, call 727-347-6288. Moms, Dads

Velveteen Rabbit Sunday, Feb. 12, 2012 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. TECO Theater

Entertaining and genuinely moving, this timeless tale tells the story of a toy rabbit made real through a child’s love.

Winter Overnight Festival Jan. 28-29, 6 p.m. Experience this Harry Potter-inspired festival of magical proportions, where guests can channel their inner wizard at MOSi, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. Create potions, make wands and more. Cost per parent-child team: $79 for members and $45 for each additional child; $105 nonmembers and $60 per additional child. www.mosi.org 6 & Older Sunshine Sunday Jan. 29, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. The Glazer Children’s Museum at 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza in downtown Tampa will open its doors early to children 0-12 with special needs and their families. Tickets are $5 for nonmembers and free for members. Iceploration • Coming in February Get ready for a new, mesmerizing half-hour ice show that combines ice skating, puppets, costumes and animal stars. www.buschgardens. com Everyone

Are You My Mother? Saturday, Feb. 25, 2012 Ferguson Hall • 2 and 4 p.m. Based on P. D. Eastman’s classic picture book for beginning readers, this enchanting story about Baby Bird’s journey is one that overflows with love, dedication and friendship. PRESENTED BY

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Ancient Egypt: Art and Magic Through April 29, various times View the newest exhibit celebrating one of the greatest civilizations in history at the Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Drive, St. Petersburg.

TICKETS AND INFORMATION:

813.229.STAR (7827) STRAZCENTER.ORG OUTSIDE TAMPA BAY: 800.955.1045 Events, days, dates, times, performers and prices are subject to change without notice.

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january calendar

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cOnTInueD

See sacred works, tomb reliefs and rare, precious stones. www.fine-arts.org 7 & Older

theater & dance

Friday Friends & Fun at the Morean Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27, 6-8 p.m. Wrap up the week with a little clay playtime at the Morean Center for Clay at the Historic Train Station, 420 22nd St. S., St. Petersburg. Bring a towel and your favorite beverage. All clay materials included. Cost: $30 for individuals; $50 for two. www.moreanartscenter.org Moms

Million Dollar Quartet Jan. 3-8, various times

Breakfast with Dali • Jan. 7, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Head to the Salvador Dali Museum, One Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg, and enjoy a museum tour, breakfast buffet and other hands-on activities. Cost for members is $10 for adults and $5 for kids age 6-12; nonmembers are $21 and $10, respectively. Preregistration required. www. thedali.org 5-12

film The Artist • Through Jan. 5 Watch the acclaimed black-and-white picture, which has been called unique and enchanting, at Tampa Theatre, 711 n. Franklin St., downtown Tampa. www.tampatheatre.org Date Night Beauty and the Beast 3D • Opens Jan. 13 Get charmed again as this delightful, modern-day Disney classic returns to the screen and in 3D. Check your local theaters for showtimes. 4 & Older Joyful Noise Opens Jan. 13 Meet two choir members and their families with different strategies for winning a national singing competition in this new film starring Queen Latifah and Dolly Parton. Check your local theaters for showtimes. Teens, Moms & Dads Real Steel • Available Jan. 24 Check out this visually stunning action adventure from Dreamworks Studio filled with heart and soul, starring Hugh Jackman. www.wdshe.com Teens, Moms & Dads

See this smash Broadway musical, inspired by the true story of a one-time recording session bringing together Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins, in Carol Morsani Hall at the Straz Center in downtown Tampa. Tickets start at $38.50. www.strazcenter. org 10 & Older School House Rock Jan. 7, 11 a.m. Go back in time and sing along with the EmmyAward winning 1970s pop culture phenomenon as it hits the stage of Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive. Cost: $7.50 adults, $6.50 children and $22 for family four-pack. www. largoarts.com 6 & Older Aesop’s Fables Jan. 7 & 14, 10 a.m., noon & 2 p.m.

Enjoy lively interactive storytelling as Eckerd Theater Company presents this celebration of classic fables brought to life in Murray Studio Theater at Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 McMullen

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Booth Road, Clearwater. Tickets are $8. www. rutheckerdhall.com 6 & Older Love, Loss, and What I Wore Jan. 10-15, various times Plan a ladies night out for this intimate collection of stories by nora and Delia Ephron in the Jaeb Theater at the Straz Center, 1010 n. W.C. Macinnes Place, Tampa. Mature audiences only. Tickets start at $38.50. www.strazcenter. org Moms Spencers: Theatre of Illusion • Jan. 15, 1 p.m.

Center’s Ferguson Hall for two performances. Tickets start at $19. Proceeds benefit the American Red Cross Tampa Bay chapter, yMCA of Greater St. Pete and Drew’s Shoes. www. gasparballet.com 6 & Older

music & comedy Howie Mandel • Jan. 4, 7:30 p.m. See the actor and stand-up comedian as he brings his unique brand of humor to the historic Capitol Theatre in downtown Clearwater. Tickets are $69-$85. www.atthecap.com Moms, Dads

in downtown Tampa. Tickets are $39 and $59. www.stpetetimesforum.com Moms, Dads

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

Winter Jam 2012 • Jan. 14, 6 p.m. Find joy in the air at Christian Music’s largest yearly gathering of top musical acts at the St. Pete Times Forum. Artists include Sactus Real, Kari Jobe, Building 429 and Grammy-nominated alternative rockers skillet. Cost: $10 at the door. www.stpetetimesforum.com 10 & Older Evanescence • Jan. 16, 7:30 p.m. Take in the haunting sounds of lead vocalist and pianist Amy Lee as she and her band perform songs from their latest self-titled album and previous hits in Carol Morsani Hall at the Straz Center. Tickets start at $37.50. www.strazcenter. org Teens

Prepare to be dazzled in this magnificent blend of drama, comedy, danger and special effects as this touring illusion production visits Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 McMullen Booth Rd., Tampa. Tickets are $18 and $25. www.rutheckerdhall. com 8 & Older

Red Hot Chili Peppers • Jan. 23, 7:30 p.m. Jam with the 2012 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees as they bring their unique blend of rock, punk and funk to the St. Pete Times Forum

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Swan Lake • Jan. 15, 3-5 p.m. Get swept away by one of the world’s most beloved balances as the distinguished State Ballet Theater of Russia performs at Mahaffey Theater, 400 First St. S. in St. Petersburg. Tickets are $25-$55. www.themahaffey.com 8 & Older

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Kid-Size Rides

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Water Fun

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Silly Shows

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Awesome Animals

Get your FREE SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Preschool Pass beginning January 9 at SeaWorldOrlando.com or BuschGardensTampaBay.com

Florida residents only. Valid only at SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa and only for children 5 years old and younger. Unlimited admission through 12/31/12. Does not include free parking or other discounts. Bring registration confirmation and valid form of ID (a copy of a certified birth certificate or travel passport) to the ticket window at SeaWorld or Busch Gardens. School IDs or children’s security IDs will not be accepted. The SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Preschool Pass offer is NOT available at the gate; advance online registration required. Offer subject to change or cancellation without notice. © 2012 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc. All rights reserved.