March 2023

Is your family's healthcare coverage changing? The Connecting Kids to Care Program will connect your family to the best healthcare option.

Head to toe coverage for all Florida kids from birth through the end of age 18, even if one or both parents are working.

Most families pay nothing at all, and many families pay just $15 or $20 a month. Full-pay options are also available.

Funding generously provided by the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County.

Heart care. Cancer care. Boo-boo care.

BayCare Kids is trusted by more parents in Tampa Bay than any other health care system. BayCare Kids is committed to keeping children healthy so they can become healthy adults, and we’ve got an entire network dedicated to the unique medical needs of kids. The BayCare Kids network includes our flagship hospital, St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, which provides comprehensive, highly specialized care for kids with complex conditions like congenital heart defects and cancer. With 80 pediatric physician specialists representing 25 medical and surgical disciplines, our pediatric team offers the care St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital is known for. And parents can feel confident knowing that in addition to these specialized pediatric services, emergency care is provided by our Steinbrenner Emergency/Trauma Center for Children. At St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, we treat more children than any other hospital in Tampa Bay, so you can rest assured your child will receive expert care close to home. Kids grow up fast. We’re here to help them grow up healthy, too. Learn more: BayCareKids.org

MARCH 2023

CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND EDITORIAL MANAGER

Laura Byrne

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Anu Varma Panchal

Brie Gorecki

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Sarah Rigby

OPERATIONS ASSISTANT

Zoe Joiner

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Laura Byrne

Anu Varma Panchal

Brie Gorecki

Maggie Rodriguez

Tara Payor, PhD

Julie Tingley

Chely Cantrell

Alexis Pastore

Erica Turchin

Jenny P.

Courtney Cairns Pastor

Hannah Geaumont

Thomas Graham, MD, PhD, FAAD

Danielle Caci

Sandra Morrison

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Ralf Gonzalez

Jim Byrne

LAYOUT & DESIGN

Jennifer Dufek

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Laura Byrne

Sunny Collabs

Kristin Berry, The Dashing Ginger

BOOKKEEPING

James Anderson

TAMPA BAY

PARENTING MAGAZINE

320 W. Kennedy Blvd. Ste. 220 Tampa, Florida 33606

Phone 813-949-4400 Fax 813-315-6688 info@tbparenting.com editor@tbparenting.com

BECOME A FAN tampabayparentingmagazine @tampabayparenting @TBParenting

Articles

10 // COVER STORY: We get to know the magic and wonder behind Zubrick Magic Theatre and show how you can experience the magic too

12 // Bugtopia Invades ZooTampa: Get a peek at this new buzz-worthy exhibit at ZooTampa featuring larger-than-life bugs

14 // Pickleball Craze in Tampa Bay: Meet the people behind the new Tampa Pickleball Crew and learn how your family can join

16 // A Hales Homecoming: Celebrity chef Richard Hales’ hometown restaurant is a family affair

18 // Fairy Tales, Family and Tampa Flair: We chat with Richard Gonzmart about restoring the Fairyland statues, the family business of Tampa inspired restaurants, and what’s next for him

24 // The Strongest Bond: Learn more about Seminole Heights Elementary’s Peer Mentoring Program

27 // More than Child’s Play: 5 Learning Domains you can incorporate into playtime at just 5 minutes each

28 // Travel Made Easy: A few of our favorite things that make traveling with babies and toddlers a bit easier

30 // Spring Break STAYcation Ideas: Explore a few awesome ways to experience all the fun right here in Tampa Bay!

32 // Spring Break Road Trip Snacking: Jenny P. of @lunchboxmafia dishes on some yummy snacks for the road and even for when you're on the go at the theme park

62 // The Highest Level of Care: Tampa General Hospital's nationally acclaimed Maternal-Fetal Medicine Program

65 // Acne: Local dermatologist discusses the causes, types and treatments available for your teen

YOUR GUIDE TO TAMPA BAY AREA SUMMER CAMPS

34

2023 Summer Camp Guide:

34 // Summer Camp Listings Begin

39 // 5 Reasons to Make Summer Camp a Part of Your Summer

52 // The Force Behind Campo Summer Camp with the YMCA

Every Issue:

6 // March Noteworthy: What’s New in Tampa Bay

9 // March Top Picks: Our favorite things to do this month in Tampa Bay

20 // Moms to KNOW: Meet Alyssa Rhoads of Eventing Tampa Bay and CEO Council

23 // Kids to KNOW: Meet Rylee Miller, a kid DJ making music for all ages

70 // What’s Trending on TampaBayParenting.com: Check out some of the most popular stories and events!

Tampa Bay Parenting is published twelve times per year and distributed throughout the Tampa Bay community. Tampa Bay Parenting is not responsible for any errors, inaccuracies, omissions or incorrect information (or the consequences related thereto) contained within the magazine or online; readers should not rely on any information contained in the magazine and they should always consult with an appropriate professional for guidance. Tampa Bay Parenting accepts no responsibility for the consequences of error or for any loss or damage suffered by users of any of the information or materials provided by Tampa Bay Parenting. Some content published by Tampa Bay Parenting is sponsored or paid for advertising content, and some individuals quoted or cited in articles have paid for advertising or sponsorships; this content or opinions do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Tampa Bay Parenting.

66 // Canine Companions: Brea brings smiles and comfort to hospitalized children at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital

ABOUT THE COVER:

Meet Ryan and Chris Zubrick of the award-winning Zubrick Magic Theatre in St. Pete. Find out what inspired them to pursue magic and how your family can experience the wonder right here in Tampa Bay on page 10.

WORLD-CLASS CARE FOR KIDS

FROM TAMPA BAY’S #1 HOSPITAL

FROM EMERGENCY CARE TO VIRTUAL CARE, TAMPA GENERAL DELIVERS WORLD-CLASS CARE FOR KIDS.

Tampa General Hospital, Tampa Bay’s #1 hospital and one of the nation’s best, delivers exceptional care for kids. Where and when you need it most. From nurturing primary care to dedicated pediatric emergency and critical care, and convenient urgent care to enhanced virtual care, you can count on Tampa General.

Florida’s Leading Academic Medical Center For Over 50 Years

NOTEWORTHY march

Adventure Island opens for the season with an ALL-NEW Interactive Splash Zone!

Adventure Island will open for the 2023 season on March 4 with the park’s newest addition, Shaka-Laka Shores, debuting in late March. The new splash and play zone is ideal for smaller kids and will feature more than two dozen playful elements and a variety of interactive aquatic components within a zero-depth area, as well as additional shaded areas. adventureisland.com

Disney’s TRON

Lightcycle/Run

makes its debut next month!

On April 4, one of the most anticipated new rides at Disney will open to the public. Based on Disney’s 1982 hit, “TRON: Legacy,” guests will climb aboard their very own Lightcycle and take off on a high-speed adventure. Located in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom, TRON Lightcycle/Run will be one of the fastest coasters at any Disney theme park in the world. disneyworld.disney.go.com

Girl Scout Cookie Time!

It's that time of year – Girl Scout Cookie Time! Throughout Tampa Bay, Girl Scouts are selling your favorites – Thin Mints®, Samoas® and more! When you buy delicious Girl Scout Cookies, you’re supporting Girl Scout entrepreneurs while funding their future adventures. Girl Scouts learn five key skills they will use throughout their lives: goal setting, decision-making, business ethics, people skills and money management. All proceeds stay local. With the money they raise, Girl Scouts make a plan to explore something new and support a cause they care about. Look for Cookie booths now through March 12, or find Girl Scout Cookies online at gswcf.org/cookies

ZooTampa partners with TGH Children’s Hospital

ZooTampa and Tampa General Hospital (TGH) Children’s Hospital announced a multi-year partnership that will focus on enhancing the health of visitors and residents by creating family-friendly experiences and opportunities for wellness. As the official and exclusive medical partner of the Zoo, TGH Children’s Hospital will sponsor a new Family Care Center in the Wallaroo section of the Zoo, a Wellness Trail and an Annual Kids Fun Run. zootampa.org

Serengeti Flyer is now flying at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay!

Busch Gardens’ latest ride – the world’s tallest and fastest of its kind – is now up and swinging! Located in the Nairobi area of the park, Serengeti Flyer is not a roller coaster. It’s a 105-foot swing ride that can seat 40 guests at once. What’s even better is that the ride has a height minimum of 48 inches, which makes it open to a wider range of kids, making it family friendly. buschgardens.com

Busch Gardens Food and Wine Festival Returns with An Exciting Entertainment Lineup!

Each weekend from March 10 through May 21, the Busch Gardens Food and Wine Festival will offer delectable dishes to pair with wines, craft brews and cocktails. Guests will also enjoy listening to some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry including Kansas, Maddie & Tae, Dustin Lynch, Flo Rida and more! Included with daily park admission. buschgardens.com/tampa

Whether it’s allergies, dealing with a sleep disorder, or slowing the effects of aging, our ENT specialists work with you to understand your symptoms and deliver tailored treatments to meet your needs. So you can get a good night’s sleep, enjoy time outside, and look (and feel) your best.

Our treatments and services include:

• Comprehensive ENT Services for Your Entire Family

• Sleep Disorders

• Hearing Loss

To learn more:

813-467-4262

TampaENTExperts.com

• Thyroid Disorders

• Cosmetic Facial Plastic Surgery

• Speech and Swallowing Disorders

• And More

Gauge height, distance, mass, and time using traditional and not-so-traditional tools & units at this new interactive traveling exhibit at GCM. Learn the language of measurement and work with others to become a measuring wizard! Visit GlazerMuseum.org/measure

march Top Picks

Our favorite family-friendly events in Tampa Bay

BUGTOPIA at ZooTampa: Now through April 30

Giant larger-than-life BUGS have taken over ZooTampa! Guests will shrink down and be immersed in BUGTOPIA, the fantastic world of animals that slither, crawl and fly. Join Professor Mo Alexander and his research assistants as they explore the important and fascinating role these tiny creatures play in the preservation of the world we share. Included with general admission. zootampa.org

Florida Strawberry Festival: March 2-12

Enjoy 11 days of music, food and fun for all ages with paid concerts, free entertainment, shows, contests, pig races, livestock and much more. The Midway is packed with games and over 80 rides for the kids to enjoy. Youngsters can try the Kiddie Korral while night owls will enjoy Moonlight Magic. Don’t forget the awesome festival foods including Florida Strawberry Festival’s winning strawberry shortcake! Admission and ride discounts are also available. flstrawberryfestival.com

Gasparilla Festival of The Arts: March 4-5

The 2023 GFA showcases artists and their work including ceramic, digital, drawing, fiber, glass, jewelry, mixed media, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, watercolor and wood. Taking place along Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, GFA will also feature the works of local young artists as well as children’s activities and a weekend full of live entertainment emceed by ABC Action News Meteorologist Denis Phillips. General admission is free and VIP Experiences are available for purchase. gasparillaarts.com

WICKED at The Straz Center: March 8-22

The enchanting Tony-award winning sensation returns to Tampa! See what really happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives comes the story of two unlikely friends, Glinda and Elphaba. From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, WICKED tells the untold true story of the Witches of Oz. strazcenter.org

Thomas the Train at the Florida Railroad Museum: March 10-12, 18-19

Get ready for a full day of fun when Thomas the Tank Engine rolls into town for a day of BIG dreams and even BIGGER smiles. Jump on board Thomas for an interactive train ride, pick up your Dream Pass and head to the Play Pod or say hello to Sir Topham Hatt. For the little engineers who want a little more excitement, check out the Dream Big Corner for photos ops, lawn games and more. And don’t forget to head to the Exclusive Pop-Up gift shop for toys and swag! Bring the whole family and imagine how far you will go! frrm.org

Disney on Ice presents Road Trip Adventures: March 23-26

Hit the road with Mickey Mouse and his pals for the high-octane “Disney on Ice presents Road Trip Adventures!” Exciting twists and turns await as Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and guests of all ages embark on an interactive and memory-rich adventure to iconic Disney destinations featuring scenes from “Mary Poppins,” “Moana,” “The Lion King,” “Aladdin” and “Toy Story.” Fans will hit a high note with Mickey and pals while singing along to beloved Disney tunes as they welcome Merida, Belle, Ariel, Mulan and Tiana to the ice. disneyonice.com

Tall Ships® St. Pete: March 30-April 2

Join Tall Ships® for a 4-day maritime celebration as the Port St. Pete becomes an Official Host Port of the TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE® Gulf Coast Series! Don’t miss this rare chance to catch a glimpse, step aboard and even set sail on the 2023 fleet of tall ships. Kids of all ages will love touring and exploring these majestic tall ships. Enjoy fine festival foods and food trucks, craft beers, music, street performers, kids activities and festival marketplace. Tall Ships® St. Pete promises to be an experience you and your family will never forget! Tickets are selling fast, reserve yours now! Festival Tickets starts at $9.95. tallshipsstpete.com

save the date

The Incredible Duck Race: April 8

Ten thousand rubber ducks will race down the Hillsborough River in front of Curtis Hixon Park to compete for amazing prizes. The family event will feature games, food and entertainment leading up to the big race. Ducks can be purchased in advance for $5 at tampaduckrace.com. You don't have to be present to win. The event benefits The Tampa Kiwanis Foundation, which supports many local children’s programs.

WANT MORE? SCAN THE QR CODE FOR WEEKEND TOP PICKS

Tall Ships®

The Incredible Duck Race

The Magic and Wonder of Zubrick Magic Theatre

by Laura Byrne

How did you get involved in magic?

Chris: We both entered magic independently from a very young age. For me, I found a magic trick at the bottom of a cereal box, and that’s how I first discovered magic.

You can still find the curated magic set that includes the same first trick Chris found as a kid—it's a rope trick!

Ryan: I received a magic set for my sixth birthday, and I was hooked on the art after that. And we met in 2005 when event coordinators unknowingly double booked us for the same event.

Chris: I always knew from an early age that I eventually wanted to have our own theater. It’s just come to fruition here in the Tampa Bay area in St. Petersburg, which is a great community.

What was your “aha” moment that made you realize this is what you wanted to pursue as a career?

The magic we experience on stage at the Zubrick Magic Theatre in St. Pete is the result of an accident. Chris and Ryan Zubrick of Michigan met when the then-individual performers found that they had been double booked for an event. This could have easily been considered an entertainer’s worst nightmare—but it turned out to be serendipity. This magical mistake by an event planner allowed the illusionists (and now husbands and fathers) to combine their talents and create a show that has left countless families in wonder and awe.

As we continue our conversation with the illusionists, we’re learning more about their journey in magic.

WANT MORE?

Scan to read our 2022 interview with Ryan and Chris as they share their journey about building their life together as a family.

Chris: I think it was when, as a child, I was able to fool an adult. I could do something that an adult could not do, and they had no idea how I did it. This gave me a lot of encouragement.

Ryan: I used to put on shows for birthday parties and family reunions, and it just kept growing and growing. My dad started building illusions because I wanted to get into some of the bigger magic—I was doing shows for Boy Scout groups and different fundraising events, and it never stopped.

You’ve performed around the world and could have brought your show anywhere. Why Tampa Bay?

Chris: We were performing overseas on the islands of Saipan and Guam for 13 years. When the pandemic hit, we closed our show and bought a 34-foot Class-A RV, traveled east coast to west coast and everywhere in between. We visited 26 states, looking for our forever home.

St. Pete and Tampa Bay were never on the map.

We happened to be in the Florida Keys and after crossing the Sunshine Skyway bridge on our way back up to Michigan, we first discovered St. Petersburg. We looked around and went wow, this is a great area, a great community. It checked all the boxes for us.

There were no Michigan winters … we wanted the tropical life of the beaches and the palm trees. There was no competition; there is no magic show or anything like we’re doing in the area, and it had year-round tourism.

We love St. Petersburg. The Tampa Bay area and the community has welcomed us, and our show is doing well. We hope to be here for many, many years.

Being able to perform again in front of a live audience must have been a pretty special feeling for you both?

Chris: Magic is best experienced live and in person. This is an intimate theater. We only have 92 seats, so you’re not too far away from the action, and a lot of people comment after the show they feel like they’ve experienced a grand illusion magic show in their own living room.

Ryan: We enjoy incorporating our audience and making them the stars of the show. We love bringing kids on stage—it makes every performance different, not only for us, but also the audience our repeat patrons. You never know what they’re going to do, or what they’re going to say.

Chris: Our show is for multi-generational audiences. The young [and] young at heart can enjoy our show. The real magic is that childlike wonder our audiences get to experience again. It’s funny to see a gentleman come in and they’ve got their hands crossed and they don’t want to be

here and then by the end the show they are just smiling from ear to ear, and they just love it because they feel like a kid again and they get to experience magic and wonder.

I think in this day in age, we’re on our devices all the time, so being able to put that away for 70 minutes and enjoy live entertainment and laugh and clap and enjoy what you are seeing right in front of you is what’s needed and special. These days, you don’t get that too often.

Do you have any favorite tricks or moments in the show?

Ryan: I think our finale is the one that we enjoy the most and gets talked about the most. We’re not going to give away what it is—you’ll have to come and see it for yourself. You would not expect it on this stage.

One of my favorite moments in the show is when we invite our 5-year-old son Oliver on stage to perform his own act. To see him enjoying magic and to hear the audience respond after he does perform is heartwarming. We never force him to take the stage if he doesn’t want to, but right now he loves it! He smiles and waves at the audience…

Chris: Future Houdinis have to come from somewhere, right?

Can you share a magic trick?

Chris: We do teach a magic trick during the show, and many patrons say this is one of their favorite parts; a chance to peek behind the curtain so to speak.

While you sell concessions like beer, wine, soda, water, candy and popcorn, do you have any favorite spots for a pre-show dinner?

Ryan: Downtown has so many great restaurants. We’re only one block off Central, which has so many great options.

Chris: One of our favorites is Red Mesa Mercado across the street.

Other than sharing your magic, what are your favorite things to do in Tampa Bay?

Chris: Visit the St. Pete Pier. We enjoy going to the museums. Oliver enjoys the playgrounds, beaches of course during the summer … just getting outdoors.

the magic

How TO Experience the Magic:

Zubrick Magic Theatre: 1211 1st Ave. N., Suite 101, St. Petersburg

Performances are typically Thursdays-Saturdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.

Tickets: $42 + taxes and fees.

Children ages 1-3 are free if they sit on an adult’s lap.

ZubrickMagic.com

Giant BUGS Invade ZooTampa this Spring!

by Sandra Morrison, director of communications

Spring Break is here! Days are starting to get warmer and nights longer, which makes it the perfect time of year to explore everything that Tampa Bay has to offer. For an unforgettable day of adventure, be sure to add ZooTampa at Lowry Park to your must-do list.

There’s always something new and exciting to look forward to at Florida’s most visited cultural institution. No visit is ever the same, and in spring 2023, we have some very fun and exciting things to amaze and educate the whole family in unique ways.

Something big is coming! You’re probably used to looking down at bugs. Get ready to look up! The fantastic world of animals that skitter, crawl and fly is taking over the Zoo. BUGTOPIA, a limited-time family-friendly event. opens Saturday, Feb. 25 and runs through April 30, 2023.

Roles will be reversed as you venture through BUGTOPIA and find yourself looking up into the eyes of a Mexican red knee tarantula, or at the tail of a mighty Emperor scorpion looming more than 10 feet in the air! It’s a bug’s world—we’re just living in it. Accounting for up to 90% of all animal species on Earth, the multi-legged, exoskeleton-encased wonders under our feet and over our heads keep our planet buzzing in more ways than one.

In addition to all the buzz from BUGTOPIA, the Zoo kicks off its extended springtime hours! The week of March 11 through March 19, guests can enjoy the Zoo from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Plus, during the months of March and April, the Zoo will stay open until 7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

Want more adventure? Add amazing moments to your day at ZooTampa with one of our unforgettable Signature Animal Encounters. From behind-the-scenes tours with incredible species like penguins and manatees to interactive experiences with giraffes and rhinos, it’s the best way to create lasting memories and connect with wildlife.

From new experiences to favorite family traditions, ZooTampa is an essential addition to your spring placesto-visit bucket list. The best way to visit the Zoo is with a membership. Starting at $115 for the year, our four different membership options provide the best value and the opportunity to return again and again for unforgettable adventures with amazing wildlife!

Visit ZooTampa.org for details.

NEW in Tampa Bay: THE TAMPA PICKLEBALL CREW

In case you haven’t heard... pickleball is kind of a big deal. Best described as a mashup of tennis, badminton and pingpong, it’s an easy-to-learn sport that people of all ages enjoy. In fact, it’s been so passionately embraced, there is now a Major League Pickleball with some of the biggest names in sports as investors in teams (ahem, Tom Brady), and you’ll find new courts are popping up all over the world and right here in Tampa Bay.

So, what's the big dill exactly? We turn to the founders of the newly formed Tampa Pickleball Crew to find out.

TBPM: We want to get to know you! Tell us about yourselves and how you fell in love with pickleball.

TPC: Our team is comprised of three close friends (Jennifer Plummer, Susan Forsyth and Dené Williamson.) Pickleball was first introduced to us (Jen and Susan) at a time in our lives when our kids were growing up, getting more involved in school and sports. Therefore, we had more free time, which led to playing a LOT of pickleball! We immediately found an instant community of people from all ages, backgrounds and skill levels—but we all had one thing in common: a love for pickleball! With our experience in marketing and fundraising, we decided to take on another venture, to launch pickleball pop-ups! That's when we knew we had to partner with Dené who has a blended background in the sports industry and teaching. She is a Sport Business professor at Saint Leo University and these pop-ups give her students real world experience.

Together, we bring the necessary elements needed to create and execute fun and competitive tournaments with a focus on giving back to the community.

photos provided by Sunny Collabs

by Laura Byrne

TBPM: How would you describe pickleball?

TPC: While we are by no means professional Pickleballers, we do have a love and appreciation for the game. Pickleball is described as a unique combo of tennis, badminton and pingpong. The sport has gained traction and momentum because it can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels but can also develop into a fast-paced competitive game. Pickleball has an interesting origin story, definitely worth a Google search.

TBPM: Is it easy for kids to pick up and play?

TPC: Definitely! Jen's daughter was first introduced through a PE class, and Susan's 3-year-old granddaughter already has a mini paddle! We regularly see multi-generational games happening between all ages.

TBPM: Why did you decide to create Tampa Pickleball Crew and what’s next?

TPC: TPC was born out of our love for the sport, desire to give back and eagerness to bring people together. Our first tournament is April 1 at Cuscaden Park. We have partnered with Tampa Parks and Recreation to sponsor the tournament, and a portion of proceeds will go back to Cuscaden Park to further improve the courts and court areas. We plan to hold more pop-ups and events throughout the city AND look forward to making exciting announcements soon.

TBPM: Do you teach people how to play?

TPC: We aren't professionals, but we do love sharing the sport. Our informal introduction to pickleball has helped our friends get the basics of rules, scoring and strokes. There are plenty of great coaches and pros in the area who offer private lessons and clinics.

TBPM: Do you have a favorite place to play pickleball in Tampa Bay?

TPC: Julian B. Lane is our personal favorite spot in town, but we are thankful for the opportunity to play at different courts and look forward to seeing more courts in our city soon... wink-wink.

The City of Tampa Parks & Recreation has made an effort to add new courts throughout the city. It is our understanding they have plans to add more courts and lighting. While it may be easier to find courts, it's become more of a challenge to find EMPTY courts - especially during peak hours. We are excited for our pop-ups to allow people designated playing times.

Did you know:

Pickle ball was named after pickle boats, the last boat in a crew race.

TBPM: Is there anything else you’d like to share?

TPC: We encourage you to get out and PLAY! If you haven't tried pickleball yet, we really recommend it. Our tournament is for all levels, a great way to meet people, and a fun way to be introduced to the sport. If you have any questions or want to learn more, visit tampapickleballcrew.com or give us a follow on Instagram: @tampapickleballcrew. See you on the courts, soon!

Usapickleball.org is another great resource to learn how to play, find courts, and more!

A Hales Homecoming

Celebrity Chef Richard Hales’ hometown restaurant is a family affair

by Maggie Rodriguez, co-host of Daytime on WFLA News Channel 8

It’s Friday night and Hales Blackbrick is packed. We spot the chef at work in the kitchen and his wife making the rounds chatting with diners at each table. The walls are adorned with family photos interspersed with eclectic art. The vibe is hip and upscale, yet warm and comfortable.

“We’re truly inviting you into our home,” chef and owner Richard Hales explains later when we chat with him and his wife, Jenny. He recounts his gastronomic journey, which began when he left his hometown of Tampa in 1997 to attend culinary school in New York City. He mingled with the country’s finest chefs, including his mentor, famed restauranteur Jean-Georges, at whose suggestion Hales decided to embark on a backpacking adventure throughout Asia. His travels to Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Bali and

After launching two highly acclaimed restaurants in Miami, the chef’s journey came full circle as Richard and Jenny moved to Tampa to open their flagship restaurant and to raise their daughters (Lily, 13, and Violet, 11) in the same city from which their father “hales.”

TBPM: What does it mean to you to open a restaurant in your hometown?

RICHARD: It means a lot, and I’m really sincere when I say that I didn’t think about the impact that it would have on

Hong Kong exposed him to the techniques and flavors that still inform his cooking.

“My goal has always been to learn as much as I can outside the state of Florida, and Tampa in particular, and bring it back in,” he says.

me emotionally since I grew up in Tampa. When I first moved to New York, one of my sous chefs used to use it as an insult to me—'Hey, Tampa boy.’ But I just feel so much pride now that I’m opening a restaurant and making sort of a seismic change in the dining scene here.

TBPM: Outside, there’s a neon sign with both your names and your daughters’ names. You have murals with your faces and family photos everywhere. This really is a family affair, isn’t it?

JENNY: We filter everything first through each other, and then of course, bring in our girls, which is our tight circle. We involve them every step of the way. Now that they’re older, they’ve been able to be a big part of this restaurant with respect to what they can do.

TBPM: You mentioned that they even decorated the boxes where you serve the dumplings?

JENNY: Yes! Richard ordered the boxes from China and they were all plain wood. We asked the girls, ‘Hey, would you guys like to torch these [to add dark accents]?’ And they both helped, but Lily, our oldest, really went to town. She spent hours and hours just torching each little box. It was so fun and

so cute to watch. On four or five of the hundreds that she did, she did her initials, L.H.

TBPM: What’s it like to watch your daughters grow up where you did, Richard?

RICHARD: Our first year here especially, we could never pass a Burger King or an intersection without me telling them a story about it from when I was 14. There’s a lot of pride. I say this a lot: I never thought Tampa had anything to offer for me, but I was naïve to think one day I wouldn’t be 50 and have two little girls. Tampa is everything to me. I don’t think I’ve ever felt like I was at home in New York or Thailand or Hong Kong or Miami like I do here. I want to establish something here. That’s why I put Hales in the name in front of Blackbrick. We’re trying to build a legacy, something for the future for our girls, something my parents can be proud of. It truly is a family business.

photo provided by the Hales family

Richard Hales with his wife, Jenny, and their daughters bring an international flavor to their hometown.

Fairy tales, TampaFamily Flair and

by

It’s likely that you’ve shared fairy tales with your children—stories, like life, marked by unlikely events and happy endings. As parents authoring our own lives, we have plentiful chapters for modeling that happy endings (a relative term) rooted in faith, family and honest work aren’t moving targets. Richard Gonzmart, fourth generation caretaker of the 1905 Family Of Restaurants and one of Tampa’s most influential leaders and philanthropists, personifies a fantastical tale. Living his happily-ever, Gonzmart offers insight into thriving as a positively powerful protagonist.

Growing up in Tampa, Gonzmart frequented Fairyland—a free attraction at Lowry Park Zoo featuring life-sized, fiberglass figurines from fairy tales like Cinderella and Humpty Dumpty. Opened in 1958, Fairyland enjoyed years of visitors. By 1999, all figures were removed. They sat, deteriorating outdoors until 2017, when Gonzmart purchased them at auction: 11 story vignettes for a total of nearly $29,000. Now, Jason Hulfish, the restoration artist Gonzmart selected, is bringing the works of art back to life so that all can enjoy them, happily ever after.

TBPM: What’s a fond childhood memory of visiting Fairyland?

RG: My parents and grandparents often took me. I remember going from story to story. Because my family spent so much time at the restaurant, those free moments became very special to me.

TBPM: Did you take your children to Fairyland?

RG: My wife Melanie would take them because I worked morning, noon and night those days. Fairyland was near our house, and we hoped those trips would stimulate their imagination.

TBPM: How involved were you in the restoration process?

RG: The restoration process is ongoing, and we have gradually added figures at our Ulele restaurant. Jason Hulfish and I visited some, but he’s a knowledgeable artist. Most difficult were the figures that were missing faces. Jason relied on Fairyland fans’ Facebook photos to learn the figures’ original appearance. Each time I see the figures, it’s as if my grandparents are alive again.

TBPM: What does Fairyland represent to you?

RG: Fairyland was a magical place...I believe dreams can come true. Look at my life! Fairyland is about the power of imagination and the importance of history.

TBPM: Top three things you want Tampa to know about the Fairyland figures.

RG: 1. They’re part of Tampa’s history. Tampa’s growth is exciting. Still, we must preserve our connection to the past. 2. The figures are my gift to the community. That’s why they’re outside Ulele; dining is not required to visit them. 3. I’m hopeful parents will take visits as opportunities for sharing the stories with their children—even if those sometimes-gruesome tales must be edited for modern sensibilities. (We also provide free fish food that children can toss into Ulele Spring next to the restaurant.)

TBPM: Are you a big reader?

RG: Because I’m dyslexic and have ADHD, I don’t read long pieces. I’m too impatient. I read Bible verses daily and like short stories. I enjoy reading daily about the hospitality industry and family businesses— learning from others and avoiding mistakes. When I read something that interests me, I start my own research through travel, calls and online searches.

Tara Payor, Ph.D.

Richard Gonzmart with Cinderella pumpkin coach and his dogs.

Aritst Jason Hulfish

TBPM: Daily, what helps you work through dyslexia and ADHD?

RG: I don’t consider them disabilities; they make me think differently. I have high energy most of the day—until I’ve drained the tank. I’m convinced my dyslexia helps my number comprehension. Errors on a 20-page spreadsheet instantly leap out at me.

TBPM: What does your morning routine look like?

RG: When I was a student at Jesuit, a priest, Father Rodgers, told me that early morning is the most productive time of day. I go to sleep early and I’m awake at 3 or 4 a.m. I use that time to pray, think and connect with overseas suppliers. I walk with my German shepherds and head into the office before anyone’s there.

TBPM: What are you most excited about with your family restaurant group?

RG: We’re virtually debt free, own our buildings where possible and have expanded our take-out business—even as guests have returned, in historic numbers, to dine in the restaurants post-COVID.

TBPM: What’s the most exciting thing happening in Tampa Bay?

RG: The growth in Ybor City. Darryl Shaw’s Gas Worx plans will turn Ybor City back into a neighborhood—the way it started, with cigar workers walking to work and stopping at the Columbia for café con leche and bread. Also, how Gas Worx and the massive Water Street development around Amalie Arena will connect Ybor City with downtown. It’s an amazing time to be in Tampa.

I’m also excited about helping revitalize Ybor City with an Italian market on 7th Avenue, bringing Naviera Coffee to roast our coffee and La Segunda Central bakery so visitors can watch the 36-inch loaves being rolled by hand and buy hot bread to take home.

TBPM: What’s been your greatest barrier? How did you work through it?

RG: When my father died, the restaurants were struggling. We owed money to the government, vendors and landlords. I was warned I could face jail time. I visited each person we owed and guaranteed full payment if they gave me time to right the ship. They believed in me and our business. We not only survived, we thrived.

TBPM: Favorite menu item at the Columbia?

RG: Everything! I create the menu!

TBPM: You plan on retiring at age 72. Why?

RG: My father died at 72, so it’s a marker for me. Miguel Torres, a Spanish winemaker I greatly respect, told me children in family businesses get restless and want to start making decisions. We either give them room to fly or lose them from the business. I’m doing everything I can to prepare my daughter, Andrea, and my nephew, Casey, for when I step away from daily operations. They’re fifth generation, which is astonishing. Fewer than 4 percent of U.S. family businesses make it to the fourth generation without closing or selling.

TBPM: How can entrepreneurs enjoy longstanding success?

RG: Pay attention, keep moving, listen, learn. Work harder than anyone else in the company. Don’t count the work hours in a week.

TBPM: What will you never compromise?

RG: My integrity. My handshake is worth more than a contract.

TBPM: Thoughts on mentorship.

RG: I learn something every day—from other industry professionals, business leaders and our staffers. I make myself available to mentor staff members and young community leaders. I’m hopeful we can help with a culinary institute instructing young people in hospitality, Florida’s largest employer industry, and life skills.

TBPM: Are you more of a hunter or a gatherer?

RG: Hunters move quickly and decisively, which I certainly do. But I also spend time researching, digging for information and asking questions—like gatherers. Professionally, I’m both. Personally, I’m a gatherer—a collector of autographed guitars, art and wine.

Delve into more about the 1905 Family Of Restaurants: 1905familyofrestaurants.com

Moms to Know

Alyssa Rhoads

Eventing Tampa Bay CEO Council

by Julie Tingley, founder of @weemacree

This has also been the legacy of Alyssa Rhoads. And though the road has not always been quite as lovely or as pleasing, Alyssa has consistently found a way to inspire joy, wonder and enchantment in everything she creates. As she is truly living her calling and using her innate talent to produce show-stopping events and promote forever memories, she never loses sight of where beauty begins and the grace it takes to be the mother she is meant to be.

TBPM: From tea cups to champagne glasses, you have made quite the impression on the event scene, especially when it comes to non-profit galas. As you approach the 10-year anniversary of Eventing Tampa Bay, how has your business grown?

AR: I took a chance on myself when I had my first child almost 10 years ago when I left the Tampa Bay Business Journal and started my own Event Management company. It was a gradual start, but since then, I have worked with some of the largest companies and nonprofits in Tampa Bay and have hired the most amazing Event Manager, Loren Lopez, to help with all our events. Some of my favorite events have been working with the Valspar Championship, the Heart Gallery of Tampa’s Be Mine Gala, Habitat for Humanity of Pasco & Pinellas County’s Gala, the Children’s Dream Fund gala and, of course, I love working with Tampa Bay Business & Wealth Magazine as their in-house Event Planner for all their events.

TBPM: You created the signature Mommy and Me High Tea event six years ago for your two little girls, Brooklyn and Makena. Today, it hosts over 400 guests to benefit the local organization Redefining Refuge. How has this vision transformed through the years?

AR: I wanted to create an event that would be like a magical dream with all the things little girls love so much! No paper tea cups and cheap decorations…I was going to make this fabulous! So, in 2017, I created the Mommy & Me High Tea to host a special pre-Mother’s Day event for mothers and daughters where they could dress up and drink delicious tea in a dreamlike atmosphere, get their hair and makeup done, decorate cookies, see a fashion show, and meet beautiful princesses. I started collecting tea sets and now I am the proud owner of 400 tea sets and gorgeous tea pots!

The event was an immediate success, and I knew I could make a difference in the community by partnering with a local nonprofit. Redefining Refuge checked all the boxes. Today, the Mommy & Me High Tea sells out in minutes and has become a tradition for many local moms and their daughters. We partner with amazing women owned businesses like Parties with Character Princesses, Drink Katy’s Tea, FH Events, Wee Macree, Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine and many more to make the event a magical day. My goal this year is to raise over $100,000 for Redefining Refuge, and we are well on our way.

TBPM: We see you moving and shaking in your role as Executive Director of the CEO Council of Tampa. Tell us more about this exciting professional move.

AR: The CEO Council is a membership organization for Tampa’s top CEOs. Our members must meet the requirements of at least $3 million in revenue and 25 full-time employees. They must also be the top executive in their organization to join. Members of the CEO Council represent over $18.8 billion in revenue and employ more than 145,000 people! Last year we welcomed 55 new members, and the group continues to become more diverse in many aspects including gender, race, industry, location and age.

TBPM: You faced a scary health diagnosis two years ago. Please share your story and what you want other moms to know from your experience.

AR: The week before my 39th birthday, I was diagnosed with breast cancer after feeling two small pellet-like objects in my left breast. I was in the best shape, working out regularly, never smoked a day in my life, and I have no family history of breast cancer. It was a scary time, mainly because of all the unknowns along the journey. Would I need chemo? Radiation? What would I look like? For me personally, I chose to only share my diagnosis with my closest friends and family. I didn’t want anyone’s pity and, honestly, I didn’t want to talk about it. Looking back now, I think I was in denial and tried not to think about it, and just left it in God’s hands. I remember a week before my double-mastectomy finally sharing my diagnosis. The amount of support I received was simply overwhelming. People came out of the woodwork to send their love, prayers and meals to help my family. It was beautiful, and I’m still grateful to this day!

The support I received from my family and friends truly got me through it. The team of doctors I had were amazing, and I have never believed more in the power of prayer than I do now. My advice to women under 40 years old is: DO NOT WAIT to get your mammogram. Get yourself checked now if you have not done so already.

TBPM: What do you, Jordan, and the girls love to do most together in Tampa Bay?

AR: My girls play club soccer, field hockey and flag football. On days when we are not at the field, we love to stay-cation in Tampa Bay. Our most favorite thing to do is catch a sunset at the beach and grab ice cream afterwards at the Don Cesar or Indian Rocks beach. We also love Anna Maria Island!

"I'm going to make everything around me beautiful- that will be my life." - Elsie de Wolfe.

Rylee Miller Kids to Know: @queen_jag_

by Julie Tingley, founder of @weemacree

- William Stafford

And then, they create music of their own! Meet Rylee: Academy of the Holy Names fifth-grader, tennis player, twin sister and a professional kid-DJ. From working nonprofit events to playing for the Tampa Bay Lightning, it’s safe to say that it’s only a matter of time until every one of us has danced to the tunes this 11-year-old spins!

Born and raised in Tampa, Rylee has been musically inclined for much of her life; she picked up playing the piano right after she learned to walk. She hears music differently; she can count the beats, and now she combines them to curate a magnetic experience with equipment that weighs as much as her. She is a true entertainer, an energy lifter and this month’s Kid to Know!

TBPM: Who or what inspired you to become a DJ?

RM: When I was in kindergarten, every day on the way to school, my dad would play songs by DJ Marshmello. We then started listening to other popular DJs and I kept asking how they mixed in different beats. I was hooked on learning how it was all done. From there, my passion and love for music grew every day.

TBPM: Where have you performed already, and what would be your dream gig?

RM: I’ve DJ’d for numerous events and all ages. To date, I’ve DJ’d at six birthday parties, the Father/ Daughter dance at my school, two kids Gasparilla parades for our Krewe, Family Night at the Tampa Yacht and Country Club, Jag Jam at Academy of Holy Names, Gasparilla market, and a middle school party at St John’s. My biggest accomplishment was DJ’ing in front of 19,000 fans at a Tampa Bay Lightning game. My dream gig would be to play in Las Vegas.

TBPM: What do your friends think about your ability to create music as a DJ?

RM: My friends think being a DJ is cool and unique, but a lot of people don’t understand how much attention to detail goes into the process. I’m constantly counting beats, mixing songs and making sure the beats match as I fade one song out and bring another one in.

TBPM: What is the most challenging thing about what you do as a DJ? What is the most fun?

RM: The most challenging part of being a DJ is beat matching. If you’re off even by a second, it won’t sound right. The best part

about being a DJ is playing in front of an energetic crowd who dance and sing along. I love when the dance floor is full!!

TBPM: Do you have any local mentors? Anyone you would like to perform with?

RM: There are so many celebrities I’d like to perform with. The big ones are Taylor Swift, Eminem, Nick Jonas, and my dream would be to partner with Steve Aoki.

TBPM: What is something you want all kids to know about pursuing their interests and developing new talents?

RM: I want all kids to know you should follow your dreams and passions, and don’t let fear stop you. All new things are scary, but you have to try it and put your whole heart into it. Keep practicing. It won’t be perfect the first time, but it gets better the more you try. I remember a quote that says, “whether you think you can, or you think you can’t, you’re right”. Believe in yourself!

TBPM: What is your favorite thing to do with your family in Tampa Bay?

RM: My favorite things to do in Tampa are playing tennis with my family, going to Lightning games and attending as many concerts as possible. There’s always so much to do in this town!

“Kids: They dance before they learn there is anything that isn't music”

The Strongest Bond

Seminole Heights Elementary’s Peer Mentoring Program

by Alexis Pastore, Hillsborough County Public Schools

Seminole Heights Elementary recently adopted a new school motto: "Where two heads are better than one." Now, two groups of students on campus are taking the initiative to embrace those words.

Since September, fifth-grade students in the Academically Gifted Program (AGP) and Beta Club have met twice a week with students who are part of the Exceptional Student Education (ESE) program. Together, they've formed the Peer Mentoring Program.

"It’s given (the AGP students) an opportunity to work with children that they don't normally socialize with. It's built their communication, their empathy, levels of kindness and just being able to think of others," says Amalia Gogan, Seminole Elementary's Gifted Program teacher.

Each week, the two groups meet and work on a variety of activities together. From STEM projects to word problems to even crafting their own fairytale, the Peer Mentoring Program aims to connect and encourage collaboration between the students.

"The idea of it is to give my Access students a chance to bond with typical peers in a different setting than they're used to and challenge them to do higher level thinking with those AGP peer mentors," says ESE Specialist Jared Rothfarb.

One of the best parts about the program, Gogan says, is that the AGP students are the ones coming up with plans for each meeting.

"It’s a real teaching experience. Like it's a handful of designing different activities and helping manage them and all types of different stuff," says mentor Chessa Claytor.

For both teachers, however, the true moment of joy comes when they see how strong of a bond the students have formed.

"They walk around the school now and they've been amazed how the mentors are going to the mentees and talking to them in the hallways in front of everybody else," Rothfarb says.

"It makes them feel really, really special because a fifth grader in Gifted is coming to see them, and just the looks on their faces, it makes it all worthwhile."

Mentor-mentee pair Owen DiCarlo and Ilijah Jelks have even created several handshakes for when they greet or celebrate each other's accomplishments.

"He's smart... and he hangs out with me every single week," Jelks said.

Those little moments of success and connection have proved to be proud moments for mentors like DiCarlo.

"It really means a lot to me because it just makes me feel like I'm making a difference in the world," he said.

READY, SET KINDERGARTEN!

Are you ready? Kindergarten events will be happening at elementary schools across Hillsborough County the week of April 3. Be sure to attend an open house at your neighborhood school and begin the registration process.

Call your area school to find out the dates and times of their “Ready for Kindergarten” events.

Bring your little one to meet our teachers, get your questions answered, understand the enrichment programs, learn how to prepare your child for Kindergarten, and experience a school tour. In Hillsborough County Public Schools, your child will learn from a trained teacher certified by the state of Florida. Our rigorous curriculum nurtures brain development and focuses on large and fine motor skills, handeye coordination, emotional resilience, self-regulation, reading, writing, and math while following standards-based instruction.

Rediscover Hillsborough County Public Schools at SignUpForKindergarten.com

Child must turn five on or before

September 1, 2023

HillsboroughSchools.org

Your future begins in our comprehensive Kindergarten program.

Save the Date!

April 22, 2023 | 10AM - 2PM

It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood for some family fun! WEDU PBS is inviting the community to join us in celebrating kindness and caring neighbors. This FREE community event is fun for all ages!

Activities include:

• WEDU PBS KIDS Fun Zone

• Music and performers

• Favorite PBS KIDS characters, Daniel Tiger and Katerina Kittycat

• Inflatables and games

• Read, Sing, and Dance with Friends

• Meet the Community Helpers, firefighters, paramedics, police officers and park rangers

• Photo booth and Green Screen Experience

• WEDU Station tours and more!

1300 NORTH BLVD TAMPA, FL 33607

wedu.org/neighbor

#BeMyNeighborDay

Have You Considered Taking the Time to Play Today?

by Erica Turchin, Manager of Marketing & Resource Development, Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County

When was the last time you played? When you rolled around on the floor, played make-believe, collected random treasure from outside, created abstract art, and laughed until your belly hurt? Those days of the past can still be the days of your today and tomorrow. Take a few moments to observe your child as they play and get on their level to join in on the fun. While you get a small break from “adulting,” your playtime interaction with your child is supporting healthy brain development and influences who they’ll become.

Children learn through play in their early years. This simple pastime is a crucial part of their development; 90% of a child’s brain will be fully developed by age 5. Play also helps develop important skills for their educational journey, such as when they start voluntary preschool (VPK). You may wonder how exactly you can make playtime meaningful? Start by focusing on each of the five learning domains for five minutes each. The five learning domains include Literacy, SocialEmotional Skills, Gross Motor Skills, Social Studies and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). All of this can easily be included into your daily routine with your child, so let's get started.

LITERACY: Reading to your child is one of the most important activities you can do with your child. Not only are you bonding with your little one, but literacy fuels all

the other learning domains. Get creative with reading locations. Maybe it’s in a blanket fort you create together, in your favorite rocking chair or outside under a tree. Point to the words as you read so your child can connect the words with the pronunciation of each one. Look over the storybook pictures and talk about what is happening in them. At the end of the storybook, work with your child on recapping the story. All of this helps them improve their reading comprehension skills.

SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL SKILLS: This domain is about understanding emotions, relationship building and problemsolving. You could play a collaborative board game, have a block tower-building contest or create an obstacle course in your home. The goal is to give your child healthy challenges and help them regulate their emotions throughout the process. If they feel sad because the block tower toppled over, have a conversation about why it upset them and give them tools to calm themselves down, like taking deep breaths, or give advice on how they can attempt to build the tower the next time around. This is an opportunity for you as their caregiver to demonstrate words of encouragement and help your child navigate how to overcome challenges because, as we all know, “adulting” is full of challenges.

GROSS MOTOR SKILLS: This is a great way to incorporate physical activity and burn off the abundance of energy your child has while strengthening their muscle coordination. Have a “late night” dance party on a Friday night in your home, practice yoga in the park, get out the sidewalk chalk and play hopscotch, or have a running contest. The possibilities are endless; it’s a great time to breathe in fresh air with this domain or practice their small motor skills on a rainy day.

SOCIAL STUDIES: With this domain in your child’s early years, you are teaching them about the world and how they interact within it. It's a wonderful time to discuss family traditions and make a family tree where they can draw members of their family. You can even take this one on the road with you and point out road signs on a drive and explain why it's important to follow the rules. Introduce what it means to be a community helper and walk around your neighborhood and do cleanup.

STEM: This is focusing on problem-solving skills, asking questions and exploring. Practice basic numeracy skills by counting out items in the kitchen like goldfish crackers and show how many remain after they eat two. Take a trip to the garden and have your child help water the plants and talk about the different outcomes of watering verses not watering the plants. You can collect rocks and talk about the color, texture and patterns, and take it a step further by asking questions like, “Do you think the rock will sink or float?” You’re encouraging them to make educated guesses and observe an outcome.

Playtime with your child is full of endless possibilities and it doesn’t take much time or money. We know you have a busy schedule, so we encourage you to try to focus on one domain a day. Taking the time to play with your child is creating positive memories for both of you. Enrolling your child in a VPK program is also a great way to enhance the five learning domains to better prepare your child for their educational journey. To learn more about how to incorporate the five domains into playtime or enroll into a VPK program, contact the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County at www.elchc.org

Road Tripping Made Easy

Traveling by plane, train or automobile this spring break? Hit the brakes for a moment...we’re dishing on some of our favorite things to make your time away from home feel a bit more like home. (These are also really great additions to the baby registry!)

SlumberPod 3.0 ($179.99)

The SlumberPod has made our top picks list before and it’s still here for a reason—it's a musthave when on the road with little ones, especially when room sharing. The blackout canopy fits right over most portable baby beds like the Pack N Play, creating a breathable and yet private, dark sleep nook for your little one. There is also a pocket for a baby camera so you can keep an eye on your child. *For ages 4 months and older.

Slumberpod.com

WonderFold Wagons

(4 seaters start at $495. Pictured, W4 Luxe Stroller Wagon $899)

WonderFold Wagons have been on our radar for a while, but we selected them for this list not only because we love wagons for kids in general, but also because the four-seater is a great option for families with more than two little kids. Keep in mind that stroller wagons are still not permitted at Walt Disney World parks, but they’re okay to use pretty much everywhere else.

Wonderfoldwagon.com

LÍLLÉbaby All Seasons Carrier ($122.40)

Baby carriers are a staff favorite. We’ve always loved the LÍLLÉbaby brand for our own kids, especially when on the go. The Complete™ 6-in-1 Carrier is a great option because it grows with your child well into their toddler years, has six different ergonomic seating options, and a zipper opening for even more breathability in warmer climates.

Lillebaby.com

all

Petunia Pickle Bottom Provisions 2-in-1 Backpack ($179.99)

Petunia Pickle Bottom not only has the cutest designs for their bags (a staff favorite), but this new Provisions 2-in-1 Backpack caught our eye because of its insulated lower compartment which is great for storing a breast pump and coolers. You can even use it to tote your laptop, so once you’re beyond the baby years, it can easily transition into a great work bag.

Petunia.com

Stokke® Flexi Bath® ($45)

Baby needs a bath, even when you’re on the go. That’s why we love this portable bathtub that’s lightweight and easily folds flat to stow away. It grows with baby and can be used for children up to 4 years old.

Stokke.com

BABYZEN YOYO² (starts at $449; also available in double strollers)

We love this stroller because it’s lightweight at 13.6 pounds and yet still durable and super easy to fold and unfold— essential when you need to quickly board a plane or theme park tram. It also has awesome accessory options like the YoYo Board for older siblings to ride and even ski attachments for the front wheels for those of you going on a ski trip this spring break.

Stokke.com

*Almost

products featured are also available for purchase on Amazon. Prices are subject to change.

Explore awesome exhibits on display right now

Dino Rescue at Clearwater Marine Aquarium:

Go on a Dino Safari at CMA and see life-sized, animatronic dinosaurs up-close as you learn all the ways the aquarium is helping them recover from ailments like animals face today. It's a fun and educational spin on a dinosaur exhibit that showcases the work of the CMA team as they care for and rehabilitate real animals today. Dino Rescue is on display through April 15.

Bugtopia at ZooTampa:

Come face to face with 13 larger-than-life bugs like a butterfly, ladybug and even a giant-sized tarantula. They move and even make noise to make you really feel like you’ve shrunk down to size and stepped into their world. There will be some special programming around the exhibit too, so be on the lookout to meet some real-life bugs as well!

Toothpick World at MOSI:

You’ll be in awe as you and the kids see the world’s largest structures made entirely out of toothpicks and glue at a 1:164 scale. Stay and play and experience all that’s NEW at MOSI like Sci Linx Putt Putt, a new butterfly garden debuting soon, and even an outdoor restaurant which is also set to debut this spring.

Spring Break STAYcation in Tampa Bay

ATTRACTIONS

Soar to the Sky at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay!

The much-anticipated Serengeti Flyer debuted Feb. 27, so you can be among the first to ride this thrilling ride which is the fastest and tallest of its kind. Even if a member of your party doesn’t like roller coasters, there is still plenty more to do like Sesame Street Safari of Fun for little ones and of course, the animals! Spring break coincides with the Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival which kicks off March 11-May 21.

Measurement Rules at Glazer Children’s Museum:

Find out how many chickens you weigh or how many of your own feet tall you are! These are just a few ways kids can explore the fun of measurement at this temporary exhibit on the museum’s second floor.

LEGO CITY SPACE at LEGOLAND Florida

This is a permanent addition at LEGOLAND, but we love it so much we don’t want you to miss it on your next visit. You’ll find it in the Imagination Zone. It’s a great way for kids to get inspired by the Artemis mission to the moon in this creative partnership between LEGO and NASA.

Towers of Tomorrow at The Bishop in Bradenton:

This LEGO bricks exhibit features the world’s most innovative skyscrapers made out of LEGOS by Ryan McDaught, one of only 12 LEGO certified professionals in the world. There are also more than 200,000 LEGO bricks for you and the kids to design your own ‘towers of tomorrow’. This is on display through March 18, 2023. Stay and play in Bradenton and visit the beach or explore downtown.

EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival

Make the short drive down I-4 to experience the annual EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival March 1 through July 5. This beloved festival is as inspiring as it is tasty. You can learn about growing your own Florida garden while tasting your way through event exclusive Outdoor Kitchens and dancing to the beat of live music.

LEGOLAND Florida Resort and Peppa Pig Theme Park

LEGOLAND Florida not only has a theme park and three awesome hotels, but did you know there is also a cool water park? It’s worth upgrading your ticket to include that during your visit. You can also set sail on the new ride, Pirate River Quest in the historic Cypress Gardens.

Next door at Peppa Pig Theme Park, little ones can experience their first rides whether they want to ride with a parent or all by themselves. There is also a great splash pad at the park. Choose a dual park option to visit LEGOLAND Florida and Peppa Pig Theme Park.

by Laura Byrne

Splish Splash!

There are so many ways to enjoy the waterways in Tampa Bay whether it’s our beautiful beaches or crystal-clear springs—and even the water parks!

Visit a Park

Explore Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland:

If you haven’t experienced this new park, spring break is a great time to explore the 168-acre park along with the new Florida Children’s Musem that is also on site. During the week of March 13-17, the park will be hosting Full STEAM Ahead, with special themed activities each day centered around STEAM.

Adventure Island re-opens March 4!

A new splash zone for kids, Shaka-Laka Shores, debuts this month featuring 25 elements that are perfect for little ones. It joins two other recent additions to the water park, Wahoo Remix and Rapids Racer along with eight other awesome waterslides, the Endless Surf Wave Pool, the Splash Attack water play area, lazy river and more.

Staycation on the Beach:

Tradewinds Island Resorts on St. Pete Beach has it all for families, including a large waterslide, floating water park, paddle boats, ongoing entertainment for everyone and so much more! The resort will be offering a Florida resident special, so be sure to check it out at tradewindsresort.com.

Go to the Beach:

This is a no-brainer in Tampa Bay with our numerous world-famous beaches! Still ranking as our staff favorites are Caladesi Island State Park and Fort De Soto North Beach. We also love Sand Key at Clearwater Beach and even making a drive down to Venice Beach to search for shark teeth.

Kayak the Springs:

If you haven’t had a chance to visit one of Florida’s beautiful natural springs, spring break is a great time to check this one off the bucket list. You just might encounter a manatee swimming by in the crystalclear water. One of our favorites is visiting Weeki Wachee Springs State Park to see the mermaids and play in Florida’s only natural water park, Buccaneer Bay, before heading out on a kayak adventure on the Weeki Wachee River.

THAT'S NOT ALL! SCAN HERE FOR EVEN MORE FUN WAYS TO EXPLORE TAMPA BAY THIS SPRING BREAK.

Spring Break Road Trip Snacking

by Jenny P. of @lunchboxmafia

Bring on the sunshine, longer days and road trips. Spring break could not come soon enough. We’ve been looking forward to our next road trip, and with so many great destinations within a tank of gas, it’s the perfect time to get out to rediscover why we love it here so much. Am I right? Hello, I’m Jenny from Lunchboxmafia (on Instagram and Facebook) here with tips to help you survive that long drive.

Some of our favorite snacks for road trips:

Mandarins

Apples

Mixed nuts

Snack mix

Yogurt covered raisins

Pretzels

Peanut butter filled pretzels

Laughing Cow cheese and crackers

Beef jerky

Muffins

Frozen snacks like mini pancakes orwaffles that will defrost within a few hours and are perfect for little hands and the lunchbox!

Nothing beats a good snack mix. Are you team sweet or savory? Here’s how to make it yourself:

Homemade snack mix:

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup of their favorite cereal

1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries

1/4 cup mini pretzels

2 tablespoons dark chocolate chips

2 tablespoons roasted almonds

DIRECTIONS:

1. Mix all ingredients well to combine.

2. Store in Mason jars or other airtight container.

3. Pack in the lunchbox or snack bag for your trip. Let the kids help. They will love it!

Other (Road Trip) tips:

• Grab their favorite blankets and pillow for the car.

• Double check for iPad and phone chargers (unless you’re totally unplugging).

• Allow time for several stops along the way.

• Pack a small cooler to make it easy for you to bring everyone’s favorite snacks.

• Pack a lunchbox. Use the lunch bag with ice packs just like you do on weekdays. If the kids are not used to long drives this could help provide some normalcy. Use it as often as possible and definitely on your way back home.

• Low sodium snacks are great because you’ll drink less and make fewer pit stops. Pack fruit like fresh mandarins and bananas or apples.

• Carrot sticks or celery with peanut butter will keep your kiddos full and satisfied.

• Bring plenty of water for everyone. If your kids aren’t fans of water, try putting a rubber band around their water bottle and challenge them to drink “to the line” before your next rest stop!

• Bring your cooler and refill it with ice at the hotel.

Theme Park Snacking

Most of these snacks work well if you’re visiting theme parks, where we know food can get crazy expensive. Snacks with plenty of protein and good fats will keep you full and satisfied, and don’t forget to stay hydrated with all the walking. Frozen “Uncrustables” will thaw just in time for lunch or snack time. We also like to pack bananas to avoid leg cramps or muscle aches.

Other theme park tips:

1. Lockers are usually available to store your personal items before getting in line for rides.

2. Everyone should wear their best walking shoes!

3. Put your kids in bright colored shirts and take a picture of them once they get settled in the car. This will help if you get separated. Wherever your adventures take you, we wish you lots of fun and wonderful memories. If you found any of this helpful, let me know! Come say hello @Lunchboxmafia on Instagram and Facebook.

Happy Spring, Jenny

For every four boxes of cookies your purchase, you earn one entry into our contest to win 365 boxes of cookies. Sweet!

your guide to Tampa Bay Area SUMMER CAMPS

Berkeley Preparatory Summer Programs

4811 Kelly Road, Tampa 33615 813-885-1673; berkeleyprep.org/ summer

With over 120 camps and classes on a beautiful 80-acre campus, Berkeley has an enormous summer catalog of swim lessons, tech camps, fine arts, baseball, chess, volleyball, football, LEGO, basketball, rock climbing, skateboard design, reading skills, lacrosse, tennis, debate, math review and so much more! Our Summer of Excellence program is uniquely designed to meet the needs of each individual. There’s something for everyone at Berkeley Summer Programs!

Cost: prices vary per camp

Dates/Times: June 5-July 28, times vary *before and aftercare available

Ages: 4-17, Coed and single sex camps

Camp IDS

12015 Orange Grove Drive, Tampa 33618 813-961-3087; corbettprep.com/campids

Design an escape room. Cook like a chef. Train with conditioning coaches. Play pickleball, battle robots, illustrate a comic book or write a play – with more than 100 half- and full-day camps, CAMP IDS has something for everyone! Weekly sessions run June 12-July 28. PreK3-8th grade students will find engaging options in STEAM, sports, academics, arts and recreation. Take field trips across Tampa Bay or enjoy archery, canoeing, fishing and retro games on Corbett Prep’s lakeside campus. Free morning drop-off at 7:45 a.m. After-care from 3:15-5:30 p.m. ($75) and bus transportation available for a fee.

Cost: $140-$325/week

Dates/Times: June 12-July 28

(closed July 3-7), Half Day 8:3011:30 a.m. or 12:15-3:15 p.m.; Full Day 8:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.

Ages: PreK3-grade 8, Coed

Camp Imagination

110 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa 33602 813-443-3861; glazermuseum.org/summercamps

At Camp Imagination, your little learners imagine, discover and connect to the world around them. With imaginative weekly themes, there’s a camp for every kid. Register your kids to play with purpose and embrace curiosity this summer at Glazer Children’s Museum! Summer Camp Imagination includes NEW private playtime with Big John, NEW dinosaur-themed activities each week, programming and supplies, museum playtime, morning and afternoon snack and Camp Imagination t-shirt.

Cost: $315/week per child before April 17, $350/week per child on and after April 17. Add lunch for $60. Annual GCM Members save 15%.

Dates/Times: June 5-July 28

Ages: 5-10, Coed

Camp Invention®

Various locations throughout the Tampa Area 800-968-4332; invent.org/local

Spark your child’s creativity and confidence with our new Camp Invention® program, Wonder! Children in grades K-6 will team up and take on fun, hands-on STEM challenges. They’ll build their own mini skate park, turn a robot into a stuffie and more!

Visit invent.org/local to secure your spot! Use promo code SUM25 by 3/30 to save $25.

Cost: $260+

Dates/Times: Various dates throughout the summer Ages: Grades K-6, Coed

Camp Terrapin at Tampa Prep

727 W. Cass St., Tampa 33606 813-251-8481; tampaprep.org/student-life/summercamps-in-tampa

Camp Terrapin is Tampa Prep’s well-known coeducational, sports and fine arts camp for students entering grades 1-8. Structured activities and theme days provide friendship and fun in downtown Tampa. Additional Summer Programs include a variety of Sports Camps and courses in Robotics, Academics and Enrichment. This summertime extension of our award-winning day school program offers something for everyone!

Cost: Camp Terrapin Half-day and Weekly rates: $155-$295. Enrichment Camps: $295-$1,000.

Dates/Times: June 5-July 21, M-F, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. *before and aftercare available

Ages: Entering grades 1-8, Coed

theCoderSchool Code Camps

New Tampa: 8632 Hunters Village Road, Tampa 33647

South Tampa: 1730 S. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa 33629

Carrollwood: 13129 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa 33618

813-422-5566; thecoderschool. com/metro/tampa

Each of our weekly camps combines STEM skill development with summer fun, providing a unique learning environment! For a limited time (through April 1, 2023), we're offering our early-bird discount of $100 off ALL camps.

Cost: $499-$699

Dates/Times: M-F, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Ages: 7-14, Coed

DFAC Art Academy

1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin 34698 727-298-3322; dfac.org/kids-corner/summer-camp

DFAC’s Summer Art Academy has proudly offered over 35 years of summer art enrichment fun. Todd Still, director of Youth Education, is excited about heading up his 26th year of one of the premier summer programs in the Tampa Bay area. Seven different art camps feature the best artists and art educators in the region – multi-media experts with skills from painting to clay to drawing to dreamin’!

Cost: $175-$230

*scholarships available

Dates/Times: Weekly Sessions May 30-Aug. 4, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. *before and aftercare available

Ages: 4.5-14, Coed

Girl Scouts of West Central Florida

3 locations: Palm Harbor, Riverview and Wildwood

813-281-GIRL; gswcf.org/ summercamp

Summer Camp is a magical place where your girl can explore the best version of themselves, develop skills they won’t learn in the classroom, grow their love for the outdoors, become more independent, and make lasting friendships! Our camps offer a range of activities like archery, swimming, hiking, canoeing, arts and crafts, outdoor cooking and adventure. At Camp Wildwood, you will interact with our horses, while at Camp Wai Lani, you will explore our marine life while kayaking on open water. NEW family camping weekends available at Camp Dorothy Thomas for the whole family to enjoy the outdoors together.

Cost: Weekly Rate: $275 for Day Camp; $375 Half Week Camps; $500-$700 for Overnight/ Specialty/ Equestrian Camp

Dates/Times: June 4-July 29, times vary

Ages: 6-17, Female

your guide to Tampa Bay Area SUMMER CAMPS

The James Museum Summer Art Camp

The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art | 150 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 33701 727-892-4200 ext. 1010; thejamesmuseum.org/summercamp

Expand your creative horizons and make new friends at The James Museum this summer. Week-long summer camps offer a variety of fun, hands-on activities that encourage creative thinking, original art-making, and playful collaboration.

Cost: $250; $225 for members

Dates/Times: June 12-16 and 2630, July 10-14 and 24-28, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Ages: Grades 1-6, Coed

Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts

1111 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater 33759 727-712-2706; rutheckerdhall.com/ education-community

The Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts at Ruth Eckerd Hall offers a variety of musical theater, drama, music and art camps to students ages 5 and up, providing them the opportunity to explore their talents, boost their confidence, discover new friends and learn from professional arts instructors. Camps start June 5.

For more information on class descriptions, dates/times, and tuition assistance, please contact the Education Associates at REHEDU@rutheckerdhall.net.

Cost: $100-$700

*tuition assistance available

Dates/Times: June 5-Aug. 4, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. or 4 p.m.

Ages: 5-18+, Coed

Marine Science Camp at Clearwater

Marine Aquarium

249 Windward Passage, Clearwater 33767 727-441-1790; cmaquarium.org/ camps

Get your camper ready to have fun in the sun as they embark on their own coastal learning experience with our Marine Science Camp at Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Enjoy our week-long K-12 camps featuring our rescued dolphin, river otter and sea turtle friends! Our camp options feature snorkeling in seagrass beds and sand flats, kayaking through local estuaries, visiting our rescued residents, and discovering fascinating marine creatures in their natural habitat. Each summer camp program is a one-week session and runs Monday through Friday. Your summer fun begins at Clearwater Marine Aquarium's Marine Science Camp!

Cost: Starting at $240/week; $220 for members

Dates/Times: June 5–Aug. 18, Half Day and Full Day options

Ages: Grades K-12, Coed

MOSI Summer Science Camps

4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa 33617 813-987-6000; mosi.org

MOSI’s Summer Science Camps bring science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) alive through hands-on experiments and design challenges. From launching rockets, building robots and extracting DNA, we are about creating experiences that expand interests and make dreams a reality. Doing real science is just one way MOSI camps inspire our campers with a can-do attitude that can last a lifetime. Real science coupled with exciting experiments, simulations, explorations and inventions will help you discover the innovator within. Keep your brains engaged all summer long while having fun!

Cost: $217-$485, MOSI Members receive a discount

Dates/Times: Weekly, May 30-Aug. 4

Ages: 4 years old-grade 8, Coed

Ms. Lisa's Dance Camp

3805 W. San Miguel St., Tampa 33629

813-253-5472; mslisasdancestudio.com

Spend your summer at Ms. Lisa's Dance! Weekly themed dance and acro camps run all summer long for ages 3-6. Camps include dancing, crafts, snacks, games and more.

Cost: Half Day $180, Full Day $310

Dates/Times: May 31-Aug. 11, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 12-3 p.m. Ages: 3-6, Coed

Summer at Shorecrest

5101 1st St. NE, St. Pete 33703 727-409-1668; shorecrest.org/summer

Summer at Shorecrest offers a huge variety of exciting, enriching and FUN summer programs for students in preschool-12th grade. Featuring classic summer day camp, STEM camps, performing and visual arts, sports clinics, academic enrichment/college prep... and so much more! Programs run weekly from June 5-Aug. 4. With extended day care, camps are available 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Each year, Summer at Shorecrest welcomes children from across the Tampa Bay area to learn and play together. Nearly half of our campers come to us from schools across Tampa Bay and around the country! View the full catalog and register at www.shorecrest. org/summer.

Cost: $195-$550, Full day camps include lunch

Dates/Times: June 5-Aug. 4, Most camps run 9 a.m. to noon, 1-4 p.m. or 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. *before and aftercare available

Ages: Age 4 years old-grade 12, Coed

YMCA Summer Camp

Multiple Locations

813-224-8622; tampaymca.org 727-467-9622; ymcasuncoast.org

Y Summer Camp offers children a SAFE and FUN summer camp experience! The camp curriculum is full of fun, educational activities infused with the Y’s character values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. Campers experience a variety of activities including S.T.E.A.M activities, swimming, science, high ropes, outdoor education, nature encounters, horseback riding, canoeing, visual arts, arts and crafts and more! The fun and unique experiences give Y campers an opportunity to explore the outdoors, meet new friends, discover new interests and create memories that last a lifetime.

Cost: Tampa Y: Starting at $184/ week, Suncoast Y: starting at $99/ week

Dates/Times: Begins May 30, times vary based on location

Ages: Tampa Y: 6-15, Suncoast Y: 5-17, Coed

ZooTampa Summer Camps

1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa 33604 813-935-8552; zootampa.org/summer-camps

Your kids can explore the Zoo like never before! Campers will get VIP behind-the-scenes access to the Zoo, up-close to our amazing animals from across the globe, and talk directly from the teams that care for these animals every day to learn what it takes to become a Zoo veterinarian or animal care expert. Plus, they’ll get plenty of splashes on our water adventure, Roaring Springs. Get ready for a WILD SUMMER at ZooTampa!

Cost: Starting at $329

Dates/Times: June 5-Aug. 4; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Ages: Kindergarten-grade 8, Coed

5 Reasons to Make Camp Part of Your Summer

by Courtney Cairns Pastor

Sure, there are practical reasons for attending summer camp. It keeps students’ brains busy once classes end, it provides working families with childcare options and it prevents the chorus of “I’m bored” that rings out during the long weeks of summer vacation.

As valid as those reasons are, they ignore the most important aspect of summer camp—it’s fun! Every day is different at camp, and the experience introduces children to new friends, great role models and undiscovered interests. Here are 5 reasons to fit camp into your summer schedule.

YOU CAN TRY SOMETHING NEW IN A LOW-PRESSURE ENVIRONMENT. Maybe your children have energy to spare but need direction. A sports camp such as basketball, lacrosse or even pickleball can let them try it for a week without requiring you to spend hundreds on uniforms and equipment. Or if they lean to the arts, they can take a piano class or enroll in painting or sculpture, giving you a better idea if they should enroll in private lessons in the future. At CAMP IDS, aspiring actors can see what it’s like to sing and dance in front of an audience in our Annie Kids camp. Those students will audition, rehearse and perform a musical in just a week! After that, they can decide if they want to commit to more shows or explore another hobby.

WE DID ALL THE WORK.

Field trip camps at CAMP IDS are a parent’s dream. Everything is planned and paid for in advance, and all you have to do is drive them to camp on time in the morning. Your child returns at the end of the day exhausted and filled with memories they made with friends in some of the most fun spots throughout Tampa Bay.

KIDS BUILD CONNECTIONS WITH GREAT ROLE MODELS. Most of the counselors at CAMP IDS were campers once themselves. They remember their experiences and know how to relate to the kids, and they receive training before camp starts on how to be positive role models. The PreK3-8th grade students at camp love getting to know the “big kids” and spending time with them. Some of those campers have returned as high school and college students and designed their own camps to teach, such as MusiCode and Comic Book Mania.

IT’S A FRIENDLY INTRODUCTION TO SCHOOL.

A week or more at summer camp shows prekindergarten and rising kindergarten students what it’s like to attend school. They learn the structure of a school day, behavior basics and what teachers expect of them. For older kids who are changing schools, summer camp at their future school helps them get comfortable with the campus and maybe even make some friends before the first day.

YOU CAN CUSTOMIZE EACH WEEK TO YOUR CHILD’S INTERESTS AND NEEDS.

When a camp offers half-day options, parents can mix and match two camps to form a full day. Pair a morning of canoeing with an academic camp in the afternoon or create combinations that suit your child such as archery and art. The ability to design your own summer is one of the aspects of CAMP IDS that Christina Petrulli, camp co-director, likes the most. “I’ve always loved how my kids can choose an outdoor sports camp in the morning when the weather is cooler and then go to something fun and totally different like a VR or photography camp in the afternoon when they would prefer to be indoors,” she says.

More than anything, a summer at camp provides students with a positive, caring community from the counselors to the campers. Jen Haas, CAMP IDS co-director and mom of twins, loves seeing the friendships that develop, whether a student spends a week at camp or all summer. Says Haas: “My favorite part about CAMP IDS is watching my kids enjoy all of our alumni counselor assistants and making lifelong summer friends year after year at camp.”

PRESENTED

your guide to Tampa Bay Area SUMMER CAMPS

ADVENTHEALTH CENTER ICE HOCKEY CAMP

3173 Cypress Ridge Blvd., Wesley Chapel 33544 813-803-7275; ahcenterice.com/icehockey-campsnclinics

AdventHealth Center Ice offers four specialized five-day camps focusing on skill development to help players reach their maximum potential. Players will work on skating, stick handling, shooting and game awareness. Participants will receive three hours of on-ice training with two hours of office training each day. Daily activities will allow skaters and goalies to hone new skills while making friends and having fun.

ADVENTHEALTH CENTER ICE LEARN TO SKATE CAMP

3173 Cypress Ridge Blvd., Wesley Chapel 33544 813-803-7372; ahcenterice.com/learntoskate-kidscamp

We offer eight weekly camps with a different theme each week, providing an environment for skaters to make new friends while learning and improving skating skills. Camp is available to skaters from beginner to intermediate levels, including introduction to hockey and figure skating programs. Hockey Summer Camps are also available!

ADVENTURE CAMP TAMPA

2020 W. Fletcher Ave., Tampa 33612 813-963-2242; adventurecamptampa.com

The Best Summer Camp in Tampa! Morning STEAM Activities are loaded with hands-on science, technology, engineering, art and sports, with afternoon recreational activities allowing campers aged 18 months through sixth grade to explore, experiment and make life-long friendships. Flexible scheduling; register by the week! Seventh to 10th graders can participate in the Counselors in Training program.

AEROSPACE CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE

4075 James C. Ray Drive, Lakeland 33811 863-904-6827; aceedu.org/programs/summer-camps

The Aerospace Center for Excellence is thrilled to offer another year of high-quality summer camps. There are five NEW Summer Camps available for the 2023 Summer. From discovery flights to explorations in engineering and a variety of hands-on activities and field trips, we have camps that will help your child chart their course to a lifelong love of aviation.

AQUACAMPS

701 Channelside Drive, Tampa 33602

813-273-4015; flaquarium.org/education/camps/summer-camp

The Florida Aquarium offers weekly summer camp experiences for children ages 3-14. A variety of science-themed AquaCamps feature animal encounters and more! There’s also event travel camps. Benefits include complimentary extended care and lunch packages. Make a splash this summer with camp at The Florida Aquarium, where fun is in the water!

BEST HORSE CAMP AT WEST COAST MORGANS

17126 Boy Scout Road, Odessa 33556 813-920-9870; westcoastmorgans.com

JUMP for JOY! The BEST Horse Camp is back! Our kid-friendly horses are trained for excellent riding lessons, learning and fun on the ground. Beginners through advanced riders enjoy different weekly themes and days filled with hands-on horse activities. We offer half or full days, single and bulk week options over summer and winter breaks, and discounts.

Cost: $175-$475/5-day camp, $100/day drop-in

Dates/Times: June 5-9 and 12-16, July 17-21, July 31-Aug. 4, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Ages: U8 to U162 Rec & Travel players, Coed

Cost: $325 + tax for a 5-day camp week. Dropin rate is $70 per day.

Dates/Times: May 30July 28, Check-in begins at 8:30 a.m.; pick-up 3-3:30 p.m. *extended care available

Ages: 5-14, Coed

Cost: $255-$275/week

Dates/Times: June 5July 28, times vary *extended care available

Ages: 18 months–grade 6, Coed

Cost: $300-$750/week

Dates/Times: Weekly, June 12-July 21, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Ages: 7-17, Coed *She Can Fly Camp is intended for girls

Cost: ages 3-4: $15-$18/ day, ages 5-14: $144$395/week

Dates/Times: May 30Aug. 4, ages 3-4: select Wednesdays 10:30-11:30 a.m., ages 5-14: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Ages: 3-14, Coed

Cost: $80-100/day, $400-$500/week

Dates/Times: May 30Aug. 9, Half and Full Day options, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Ages: 6+, Coed

BULLS SOCCER CA MPS

Activities: We have an awesome riding program: English and western riding instruction, horseshows, amazing trail rides, vet care, and stable management with certified riding instructors. We want to help each girl find their niche and grow in their Christian walk. At camp we offer: riding, swimming, river trips, cheerleading, drama, art, tennis, dance, water ballet, archery, Christian leadership, music, baton, volleyball and so much more. Register today!

First Session: 1 week: Sun. June 4 - Sat. June 10 $875

Second Session: 2 weeks: Sun. June 11 - Sat. June 24 $1,395

Third Session: 2 weeks: Sun. June 25 - Sat. July 8 $1,395

Fourth Session: 1 week: Sun. July 9 - Sat. July 15 $875

Mother-Daughter Retreat: Sun. July 16 - Tues. July 18 $295

BULLS SOCCER CAMP

12503 USF Bull Run Drive, Tampa 33617 usfsoccercamps.com

Suitable for beginners, elite players and teams, our experienced staff works to improve players’ technical abilities with intense, fun training sessions based on daily themes, including dribbling, passing and receiving, finishing and possession. Afternoons are for tactical coaching in game situations and preparation for Friday’s exciting playoff day! Expect team spirit, chanting, campers vs. coaches games, swimming and more!

CAMP BAYSHORE

3909 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa 33611 813-839-4297; bayshorechristianschool.org/student-life/camp-bayshore.cfm

Camp Bayshore is a fun, Christian-centered program for campers ages 3 through rising 6th grade. Children from all around the Tampa Bay area are provided an exciting and safe family atmosphere to learn, grow, play and make memories that last a lifetime.

CEDARKIRK CAMP & CONFERENCE CENTER

1920 Streetman Drive, Lithia 33547 813-685-4224; cedarkirk.org

We offer residential, small-group, faith-based camp programs in a natural setting along the Alafia River. Our programs foster community building, personal skill development and faith exploration in an environment built around safety, fun and adventure. We welcome campers who have completed first through 12th grades.

CAMP CUBBER AT PALM HARBOR UMC

1551 Belcher Road, Palm Harbor 34683 727-781-6343; cubber.org

We provide your child with the best summer possible in a safe, family friendly environment. Weekly campers enjoy a field trip and special onsite activity as well as activities like science, art, creative writing, reading, music, game room, active play and much more! It’s almost too much fun to fit into one summer!

CAMP DOVEWOOD

23221 101st Road, O’Brien 32071 386-209-1908 or 386-935-0863 campdovewood.org; campdovewood@windstream.net

Camp Dovewood celebrates 46 years of dynamic Christian camping for girls 7-16 in North Florida. We have an outstanding equestrian program with certified instructors for huntseat, rodeo, dressage, grooming, vet care and trail rides. We also have swimming instruction, tennis, cheerleading, art, drama, archery, Bible, volleyball, softball, cooking, gymnastics, music and baton. ACA and CHA accredited.

CAMP MARY HELP

6400 E. Chelsea St., Tampa 33610 813-621-8300; mhctampa.org/summer-camp

Camp Mary Help introduces the tradition of faith and fun with new, challenging activities for campers. Camp Mary Help is on a 140-acre campus which includes a barn to play with animals, a lake for kayaking and tubing; an Olympic sized pool for swimming and water games; and fields for adventure!

CAMP OSPREY

18050 US Highway 301 S., Wimauma 33598 941-928-6860; camposprey.com

208 acres that parallel the Little Manatee River, Camp Osprey is filled with kids 7-15 years old. Some of the activities include horseback riding, paintball, high ropes, giant swing, ziplining, ninja warrior obstacle course, Blob, Redneck slide, BB guns, archery, hiking, trail biking, kayaking, swimming, tubing and so much more!

Cost: $285-$305

Dates/Times: June 5-9, June 12-16, June 19-23, times vary

Ages: 6-14, Coed

Weekly Cost: $275-$300 + registration fee

Dates/Times: May 30July 28, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Ages: 3 years - rising 6th graders, Coed

Cost: ~$450/week

Dates/Times: weekly programs; June 11-Aug. 4

Ages: Completed grades 1-12, Coed

Cost: $165-$175/week + registration fee

Date/Times: June 5-July 28; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

*extended care available

Ages: Rising kindergarten – grade 8, Coed

Cost: 2-week camp

$1,395, 1-week camp

$875, mother-daughter retreat $295

Dates/Times: June 4-July 18, one and two-week sessions, overnight

Ages: 7-16, Girls Only

Cost: $175/week

*discounts and scholarships available

Dates/Times: June 12July 28, Drop off 7:30-8 a.m., Pick up 4-4:30 p.m.

Ages: 5-15, Coed

Cost: $325-$795

Dates/Times: June 4-Aug. 5. Overnight camp: Sat-Sun. Day Camp: M-F, 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. *breakfast and lunch provided

Ages: 7-15, Coed

CAMP OSPREY SMOKEY MOUNTAIN OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

18050 US Highway 301 S., Wimauma 33598 941-928-6860; camposprey.com/programs

Our Wimauma overnight adventure camp is offering an out of state camp experience! Travel to Tennessee to camp in cabins on the Pigeon River. Enjoy white water rafting, gorge zip lining, caverns, hiking, Virginia creeper bike trail on the Appalachian trail (20 miles downhill over rivers) and more. Make a lifetime of memories in just one summer!

CAMP ROCKMONT FOR BOYS

375 Lake Eden Road, Black Mountain, NC 28711 828-686-3885; rockmont.com/tampa

A Summer of Adventure. A Lifetime of Friendship. At Rockmont, campers get to experience the wildness of being a boy outdoors, the welcoming embrace of a loving community and the wonder of being alive. What makes Rockmont different is Age Progressive Programming. As your son grows, so will his camp experience! And our incredible counselors and staff are with him every step of the way.

CAMP WOODMONT

381 Moonlight Drive, Cloudland, GA 30731 423-472-6070; campwoodmont.com

Imagine a home away from home where your child feels secure, welcome and reassured—that’s Camp Woodmont! Just two-and-a-half hours from Atlanta, this ACA-accredited camp boasts two generations of family management. Activities at this overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6 to 15 include archery, climbing, horseback riding, crafts, games, sports and more! One- and two-week sessions available.

CIRCLE C RANCH ACADEMY

6204 Interbay Blvd., Tampa 33611 813-831-8429; ccranchacademy.com

We have Summer Camp and Summer VPK available with many activities! Camp Activities include horseback riding, swimming, art, sports including archery, canteen snack hut, outdoor exploration and bounce house. Come join us for all the fun outdoors!

Cost: $2,195/week *all-inclusive price, 12 campers per week, space is limited

Dates/Times: Sun-Sat weeks of June 11, June 24, July 9 and July 23, overnight

Ages: 13-16, Coed

Cost: $1,700-$7,250

Dates/Times: 1-4 week sessions June 5-Aug. 5, overnight

Ages: 6-16, Counselor in Training Program for 17 year olds, Boys

Cost: $1,275 for 1 week to $1,925 for 2 weeks

Dates: May 28-July 28, Overnight

Ages: 6-15, Coed

Cost: Full Day $285/ week, Half Day $220/ week

Dates/Times: June & July, Full Day: 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Half Day: 8 a.m. to noon

Ages: 1-12, Coed

THE COAST - A WORD OF LIFE CAMP

13052 Word of Life Drive, Hudson 34669 727-379-5005; wol.to/coast

Are you ready for a summer you’ll never forget? Campers at The Coast will experience high energy action, form lifelong friendships and make defining decisions about their faith as they spend their days worshiping, studying Biblical truths and having a ton of fun in the Florida sun!

CODEWIZARDSHQ SUMMER CODING CAMPS & CLASSES

Virtual/Online 800-213-2417; codewizardshq.com/summer

CodeWizardsHQ offers the most fun (and effective!) coding camps and classes for ages 8-18. Hands-on interactive learning and highly-rated instructors provide an experience students love. Minecraft and Roblox-themed coding camps are perfect for gamers interested in coding. Three-week accelerated classes allow students to complete three full courses in one summer!

DRAMA KIDS WORKSHOP AND PERFORMANCE CAMPS

Multiple Locations: Brandon, Apollo Beach, and Wesley Chapel 813-489-5899; dramakids.com/brandon-apollo-beach-riverview-plantcity-fl/camps

When school is out, drama is in! Campers from all experience levels can enjoy engaging themed week-long camps with improvisational and scripted acting activities, crafts and skill-building workshop camps, or join the cast of “Legally Blonde Jr.” or “We are Monsters” as part of our Take 2 Performance Academy Camp.

Cost: $368-$427/week, $338-$397/week if registered before March 23

Dates/Times: June 4July 28

Ages: Junior Camp: Age 6-12, Teen Camp: Age 12-18

Cost: $399-$447

Dates/Times: Camps: June 5-9, June 26-30, July 31-Aug. 4, Classes: June 12-29, July 10-27, Aug. 7-24, various times

Ages: 8-18, Coed

Cost: $319-$599, *early bird pricing available until April 1

Dates/Times: June 5July 14, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Ages: 6-17, Coed

The Force behind Campo Summer Camp

by Hannah Geaumont

Summer camp is more than splash pads and sing-alongs. While there are many options for parents today, the Tampa Y summer day camps provide parents with peace of mind while their children enjoy fun, friends and adventure.

At the Tampa YMCA, our American Camp Association (ACA)-Accredited summer day camps provide options that meet the needs of every child’s personality, physical ability and interests.

Being an ACA-Accredited camp means the Tampa Y camps undergo a thorough review of our operations, from staff qualifications and training to emergency management, while aligning the Y curriculum with the highest standard in the industry.

Michelle Leahy, associate program director at Campo Family YMCA, is entering her second

summer as camp director for the Campo Family YMCA, but began her Y journey five years ago when she accepted her first role as a camp counselor at YMCA Camp Cristina.

“Child and youth development is the backbone of our planning here at the Campo Family YMCA,” Leahy says. “Building a safe yet fun and creative environment that fosters an effective week for children of all ages pushes me to be the best I can be. My main goal is to make a difference in people’s lives and help others. If I can effectively accomplish that by running an outstanding summer camp program, I have done my job.”

Along with an additional 11 summer camp directors, Leahy is dedicated to ensuring each child has the opportunity to try something new while building character and friendships based on the Y Core Values: caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

“My favorite part of camp is engaging with all the kids,” she says. “There is nothing better than walking into the courtyard and having all the campers rush to have me play a game of gaga with them.”

Gaga ball, a variant of dodgeball played in a gaga pit, is a Y summer camp favorite. The

game combines dodging, striking, running and jumping with the objective of being the last person standing.

Each Tampa Y summer day camp offers a variety of fun activities for campers to engage in each day, including:

• Arts and crafts

• Indoor and outdoor games

• Nature education

• Science experiments

• Swimming

Additionally, each camp offers specialized “adventure camps” for campers to opt into. Adventure camp activities vary by price and location and include:

• Adaptive camps

• Archery

• Arts and crafts

• Dance

• Drama

• Gymnastics

• High Adventure/ Outpost

• Horse camp

• Swimming

• Strength and conditioning

• Sports camp

Leahy plans to incorporate Kona Ice Thursdays into the summer camp schedule at Campo summer day camp as she did last year. She also hopes to include two special guest demonstrations and safety lessons from the fire and police departments.

“We are proud to offer a safe and supportive space for your child to learn, grow and thrive,” Leahy says. “The Y has many great camps that allow your child to have a blast while learning critical skills and values. What else could you ask for?”

EARTH IMMERSION SCUBA SUMMER CAMP

180th St., Live Oak 32060 352-641-0350; earthimmersion.com/scuba-diving-summer-camp.html

Earth Immersion is a scuba, adventure and outdoor education camp for teens (13-17 yrs) looking for an unmatched experience exploring North Florida’s crystal-clear springs. Activities include earning SCUBA certifications, snorkeling, canoeing, hiking, fishing, tubing, community service hours and learning about freshwater/marine biology. We offer 7- or 13-day overnight coed programs.

ECKERD COLLEGE SUMMER WATERSPORTS CAMP

4200 54th Ave. S., St. Petersburg 33711 727-864-8288; eckerd.edu/waterfront/camp

The Eckerd College Summer Watersports Camp offers classes in Exploring Watersports, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, wakeboarding, saltwater fishing, Little Mariners, and Exploring Marine Life and more for students ages 5-17. This camp is taught in the perfect environment for learning watersports and gives campers exciting and unforgettable experiences!

HISTORY ADVENTURE CAMPS

801 Water St., Tampa 33602 813-228-0097; tampabayhistorycenter.org/camps

Campers (ages 7-11) get hands-on with history through games, crafts, activities, gallery time and guest speakers. Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Extended care available.

Cost: $2,250-$4,100

Dates/Times: June 11Aug. 4, 7- or 13-day overnight programs

Ages: 13-17, Coed

Cost: $180-$295/week

*10% off of each class for multiple classes

Dates/Times: June 5July 28, 9 a.m. to noon and 1-4 p.m.

Ages: 5-17, Coed

Cost: $250/week

*extended care available

Dates/Times: June 12-16 and 26-30, July 10-14 and 24-28, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Ages: 7-11, Coed

LITTLE RED WAGON KIDS' NATURE CAMP

4111-A Henderson Blvd., Tampa 33629

813-551-2359 (BFLY); butterflytampa.com

Explore the life of bugs, butterflies and more at our fun-filled nature camps. Learn about Florida’s native pollinators and their importance. From time traveling to prehistoric times to learning about bugs through Pokémon, have a blast during summer and other school breaks. Enjoy animal encounters, release a butterfly and more!

MARY JO'S PERFORMING ARTS ACADEMY SUMMER CAMPS

15906 Mapledale Blvd., Tampa 33624 813-969-0240; mjpaa.com

The arts are a perfect avenue to allow your child to explore their creativity, tap into their imagination and discover their potential. Students will develop self-expression, build confidence, learn to work with peers, foster problem solving skills and stimulate curiosity. From classics to pop culture, your children will unfold the wonderful world of the performing arts.

MUSIC AND MORE

402 Oakfield Drive, Brandon 33511

813-490-ARTS (2787); faopa.org

Music and More is a full and half-day week-long camp. We offer daily drop-ins along with early drop-off and late pick-up. Students will explore instruments, acting, singing and art. Musical Theatre camps are two-week intensive production camps. Students work on acting, blocking, singing –dynamics and harmonies, along with how to put together a full production at the end. We offer scholarships and sibling discounts.

PARADISE SUMMER CAMP / PRESCHOOL SUMMER CARE

7777 62nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg 33709; 727-647-0349

K-6 Camp: nscparadisesummercamp.campbrainregistration.com

Preschool Summer Care: ncsparadisepreschool.campbrainregistration.com

A great opportunity for your child to experience a wide range of educational, recreational and spiritual activities, all in an exciting, hands-on and creative environment! Your child will enjoy the chance to make new friends, create happy memories and grow and improve their skills in a variety of areas!

Cost: $275/week, Day

Pass: $75

Dates/Times: May 30Aug. 4, 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Ages: Kindergartengrade 5, Coed

Cost: $125 and up

Dates/Times: June-Aug., M-F, 9 a.m. to noon, 3 or 4 p.m.

Ages: 3 and up, Coed

Cost: $30 Registration

Fee, Music and More is $230/week, Musical Theatre is $275 for 2 weeks

Dates/Times: Weekly, May 30-Aug. 4, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Ages: 5-12, Coed, All Abilities

Cost: Preschool $250, K-6 $275

Dates/Times: June 5-30

and July 10-28, Preschool M-Th, 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Camp M-F, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Ages: Preschool: ages 3-4, Camp: rising K-6, Coed

PATEL CONSERVATORY

1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa 33602 813-222-1040; patelconservatory.org

The Patel Conservatory gives all of its students the opportunity to reach their creative potential, with instruction in dance, music and theater. Students attend camps and classes appropriate for their age and skill level. Classes require active learning participation from students and conclude with a performance.

SOUTH TAMPA MUSIC SUMMER CAMPS

3822 S. Himes Ave., Tampa 33611 813-999-2829; musicschoolintampa.com/music-summer-camps-in-tampa

Join us this summer with four different camp options, ranging from half-day to full-day. Our school offers unique camp themes like musical theater, music production, string chamber ensemble and rock band. Plus, we still have our Elementary Introductory Camp! Explore music dialed in on your child’s exact interest.

SUMMER AT CDS

1515 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa 33613 & 12606 Casey Road, Tampa 33618 813-920-2288; cdspatriots.org/summer-camp

The Summer at CDS staff are excited to spend the summer with your little camper for what we know is going to be a summer they’ll never forget! Our camps will allow your children to explore, discover and challenge themselves. Campers will continuously explore new adventures that will allow them to grow and push themselves to new levels.

SUMMER AT THE LAKES

2331 Collier Parkway, Land O’ Lakes 34639 813-948-7600; summeratthelakes.com

Summer at the Lakes provides your child the opportunity to make lasting friendships while exploring nature and learning new skills! Children have fun all day by participating in a variety of activities from canoeing and fishing to building rockets or robots, acting, cooking, community service and a variety of sports.

SUMMER ON BAYSHORE

3319 Bayshore Blvd., Tampa 33629 813-839-5371; holynamestpa.org/summer

From cooking and crafting to drones and dancing, there is something for everyone at Summer on Bayshore! Fun-loving kids ages 3 and up may choose from our themed day camps (Camp Jaguar), academics, the arts, athletics, enrichment and STEM. With more than 100 camps to choose from, your Summer on Bayshore adventure awaits!

TAMPA MUSEUM OF ART – SUMMER ART CAMP

Cornelia Corbett Center, 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa 33602 813-421-6636; tampamuseum.org/summerartcamp

Children and teens exercise their creativity and imagination with hands-on activities themed around the Tampa Museum of Art’s permanent collection of antiquities, modern and contemporary art. With a variety of 2D and 3D mediums to choose from, campers connect with the art on view and create unique works of art.

VALLEY VIEW RANCH EQUESTRIAN CAMP

606 Valley View Ranch Road, Cloudland, GA 30731 706-862-2231; valleyviewranch.com

Since 1954, this horse lovers’ paradise on top of Lookout Mountain offers 600 acres of scenic trails and panoramic views where all levels of riders will learn English and Western. Enrollment is limited to 50 girls and is open to ages 8-17. Spend up to six hours a day riding and caring for your OWN camp horse.

Cost: Varies *scholarships available

Dates: May 30-Aug. 4

Ages: 3 through adult, Coed

Cost: $150-$250/week

Dates/Times: June 5-9 and 12-16, July 10-14 and 17-21, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. plus half-day options

Ages: 4-17, Coed

Cost: $225-$330

Dates/Times: June 5July 28, Full and half-day options

Ages: Toddler-grade 12, Coed

Cost: $300-$400/week

Dates/Times: Weekly June 5-July 28, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. *aftercare available

Ages: Pre-K3 to grade 12, Coed

Cost: $175-$400

Dates/Times: June 5-9, 9 a.m. to noon, June 12-30 and July 10-21 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Ages: grades PK3-12, Coed, all-boy and all-girl camps available

Cost: $175-$440

Dates/Times: June 5Aug. 4, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or 1-5 p.m.

Ages: 6-17, Coed

Cost: $2,400-$4,200

Dates/Times: June 4July 29

Ages: 8-17, Female

SAILING, WINDSURFING, LITTLE MARINERS WATERSPORTS, SALTWATER FISHING, CHILDREN’S MARINE DISCOVERY, EXPLORING

MARINE LIFE, WAKEBOARDING, KAYAKING AND MORE!

VOSLER YOUNG ARTISTS' STUDIO

330 Pauls Drive, Brandon 33511

813-417-5867; vosleryoungartistsstudio.com

This is our 14th year of exceptional workshops. Our instructors will do frequent short demonstrations. Workshops vary in content from year to year so returning students can continue to build both skill and knowledge. Anatomy will be taught along with drawing from live clothed models at the end of the week. All workshops are extremely focused and artists can expect a certificate of completion on the final day.

YMCA OF GREATER ST. PETERSBURG SUMMER CAMP

Multiple Locations

727-895-9622; stpeteymca.org/camp

Children and teens make friends, have fun and build confidence. Day Camp integrates play, STEM-based activities, field trips and more. Children can explore favorite interests with specialty camps featuring sports, outdoor adventures, cooking, dance and more. Teen Camp offers field trips, guest speakers and enriching community service.

YOUNG CHEFS ACADEMY SUMMER CULINARY CAMP

9690 Seminole Blvd., Seminole 33772 & 23606 State Road 54, Lutz 33559 727-350-4587; seminolefl.youngchefsacademy.com 813-574-2433; wesleychapelfl.youngchefsacademy.com

Our fully immersive culinary camps bring sizzling surprises and delights as we cook and bake our way through exciting tips and tricks with friendly cooking challenges to put your newfound skills to the test. Every week is a new curriculum (so no two camp weeks are alike).

Cost: $304-$410/week (supplies included)

Dates/Times: March 13-16, June 5-9 and June 12-16, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Ages: 12 and over, adults welcome, Coed

Cost: Day Camp starting at $160, Teen Camp starting at $200

Dates/Times: May 30Aug. 4, times vary

Ages: Day Camp for ages 5-12, Teen Camp for ages 12-15, Coed

Cost: $150-$250/week

Dates/Times: 10 weeks of camp starting May 30, 9 a.m. to noon and 1-4 p.m.

Ages: 7-17, Coed

The Highest Level of Care

Tampa General Hospital’s Nationally Acclaimed Maternal-Fetal Medicine Program

By Tampa General Hospital Staff

Autumn Schultz’s world was forever brightened by Tampa General Hospital’s MaternalFetal Medicine (MFM) program. She had suffered the tragic loss of her third baby at 24 weeks due to a highly rare immunologic condition. But enter Tampa General’s nationally acclaimed MFM program and Fetal Care Center — dedicated to delivering the highest possible level of care, in pursuit of the best possible outcomes, for high-risk pregnancies. The stage was set for a dramatic change in the storyline: from heartache to hope, and from grief to gratitude.

Schultz had two children at that time — son Draken, then 10, and daughter Brielle, 4, born at 31 weeks and nurtured to health in Tampa General’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Three months after her third baby’s passing, Autumn became pregnant again, facing a frightening 80 percent prospect of a recurrence of chronic histiocytic intervillositis.

But Dr. Sarah Običan, director of MFM and co-director of the Fetal Care Center, immersed

herself in her patient’s case, closely monitoring her each step of the way, studying every aspect of the condition that afflicts just one percent of pregnancies, and ultimately guiding Autumn to the delivery of a thriving baby girl, Payton.

“Dr. Običan is absolutely amazing — the entire MFM team is hands-down the best,” Schultz says. “They’re willing to learn. And they’re willing to be people as well as doctors.”

As a physician herself (Dr. Autumn Schultz is a psychiatrist at the James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital), Schultz knows a good doctor and support team when she sees one: “I’m so fortunate I found Dr. Običan because she is such a wonderful human being and doctor.”

Schultz also credits the Fetal Care Center’s nurse coordinator, Julie Johnson — both with Brielle when she was a premature newborn in the NICU, and again while Payton was in utero — who provided extra scans and monitoring: “Julie is incredible,” she says.

The MFM program and Fetal Care Center use a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together expert fetal and pediatric surgeons, MFM specialists, and specialized coordinators from Tampa General and USF Health, using the latest procedures and interventions — a reason Tampa General was honored as one of Newsweek ’s Best Maternity Hospitals in 2022, and named highest ranked in Florida for Obstetrics & Gynecology by U.S. News & World Report for 2022-2023.

“We specialize in multidisciplinary care and provide something many people in the community don’t have—access to numerous adult and pediatric subspecialties,” Dr. Običan says.

Dr. Anjali Kaimal is a maternal-fetal medicine specialist at Tampa General and the Vice Chair of Clinical Operations for the University of South Florida (USF) Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. “Whatever expertise is needed, we care for the whole person, during the pregnancy and beyond,” she says.

Emily O’Connor tragically lost two of her triplets during the first trimester in 2016. But Tampa General obstetrician Dr. Stephanie Ros has since seen Emily through the birth of a daughter and fraternal twins. “I can’t say enough about Dr. Ros,” Emily says. “She and her team have always been there for us.”

Candace Martinson has had three babies in four years delivered by Dr. Ros. During her first pregnancy, she tested positive for Zika, and a friend pointed her to Tampa General. “Dr. Ros assured me everything would be okay, and it was,” Candace says. “She was like an angel to us. It’s like she’s become part of our family.”

A family forever enriched by Tampa General.

EXAMPLES ABOUND.

Patients receiving care at the TGH Women's Institute.

ABOUT DR. GRAHAM:

Thomas A. Graham, MD, PhD, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist with over a decade of experience. His focus is the diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory skin conditions, including but not limited to acne, rosacea, eczema and psoriasis, as well as providing skin examinations with emphasis on investigating the ‘irregular mole’ and any lesions concerning for skin cancer.

Dr. Graham strives to utilize his expertise and addresses each patient individually. His desire is for patients to feel heard, as he feels their stories are vital to best treat their skin concerns. Patients of all ages may see Dr. Graham by self-referral or referral from other providers. He has two convenient clinic locations in both Tampa and Brandon.

Acne: Causes, Types, and Treatment

By Dr. Thomas A. Graham MD, PhD, FAAD (board-certified Dermatologist / Physician)

As if being a teenager wasn’t hard enough, struggling with unrelenting pimples and breakouts can really take a toll on your child’s self-esteem. People of all ages can get acne, but it is most common in teenagers. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, nearly 85% of people between the ages of 12 and 24 experience acne.

Acne is a skin condition involving the pilosebaceous unit (which consists of the hair follicle, hair shaft and sebaceous gland). These pores get 'clogged' and the normal skin flora (bacteria) feed on trapped sebum, which can cause the body to mount an inflammatory response leading to localized swelling, redness and tenderness. This

is what contributes to discomfort such as itching and/or pain. Areas affected tend to be the face, back, shoulders and chest.

Acne typically arises in puberty, because it is hormonally driven, but can develop later in life as well. Acne-like skin eruptions can also develop secondary to certain medications, from working with oils (mechanics), and even from occlusion (blockage which can result from things like wearing face masks, headbands or helmets). Diet is sometimes reported to affect the course of acne as well, depending on the patient. Acne can be very distressing, but squeezing and picking should be avoided to prevent further scarring.

Acne may be mild and non-tender, with only white and black heads (pimples), or it can be cystic and painful in nature. The level of treatment varies based on presentation and can also vary from patient to patient depending on what is or is not tolerated. Treatments vary from mild, overthe-counter products and topical prescription medications to systemic medications. How long acne will persist is difficult to predict. Many patients will outgrow their acne. However, if not managed appropriately, the result may be a life with resultant acne scars. It is best to see a board-certified dermatologist at the onset of acne to obtain the best course of care possible in this regard.

To schedule an appointment online visit our website or call 813-684-5255.

How Brea Brings Smiles and Comfort to Hospitalized Children

by Danielle Caci

She’s not just a furry, lovable 4-year-old Labrador retriever who enjoys visiting with kids. Brea (pronounced Bray-UH) is the first-ever facility dog at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. Facility dogs are a bit different from therapy dogs in that they are trained to assist with goal-oriented interventions and address the physical and psychological needs of patients, families and staff. Brea provides comfort, support and serves as a friendly distraction for children during procedures and throughout their hospitalization.

Brea was trained by Canine Companions, and she assists Child Life specialist Leah Frohnerath, M.S., CCLS throughout the hospital. Frohnerath practically grew up in the hospital herself, undergoing surgeries and therapies as a child for hereditary spastic paraplegia. The condition affected her leg muscles and her ability to walk, but she was introduced to animal assisted therapy early on, which helped her physically and emotionally. Frohnerath’s own health care experiences inspired her to pursue a career as a Child Life specialist, and once she arrived at Johns Hopkins All Children’s, she knew the benefit a facility dog could bring.

“A patient’s motivation to connect with Brea is often strong enough to give them the courage when they need it the most,” Frohnerath says.

This spring, Brea celebrates her 2-year anniversary at the hospital. She currently works 40

hours a week, calming and comforting patients through various procedures, blood draws, CT scans, MRIs and more. Eightyear-old Petra is just one of the many patients who have been impacted by Brea’s services. Petra was diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma in September 2022, and Brea has often been by her side during chemotherapy and other hospital stays.

“Brea is the nicest dog and Petra talks about her all the time,” says Ingrid, Petra’s mom. “When she was getting her port accessed for her chemo, Brea came and visited and it made her smile, and she didn’t even think about the pain. Brea is very patient, goes on the bed, lays down, is very calm and projects her calmness to Petra and makes her smile.”

Brea has inspired Petra’s family so much that they are planning to welcome a therapy dog in their home later this year. For now, instead of being scared for pokes and procedures at the hospital, Petra has a bit more courage when visiting the hospital, thanks to Brea.

Frohnerath hopes to spread the snuggles by adding another facility dog to the hospital staff one day. More than 15 generous donors have already made the hospital's facility dog program possible so far by paying for Brea’s services as well as her food and other work-related expenses. For now, Brea continues to spread as much “paws-a-tivity” as she can.

Brea joins the staff to visit patients at Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital.

Brea, who arrived from Canine Companions for Independence, visits with Jakobe at Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital.

Brea with Petra

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AngelEyes on baby:

How a camera, app and cutting-edge technology helps parents bond with their preemies

by Anu Varma Panchal

Yana Torrez was enjoying a textbook pregnancy, so when she felt contractions at 29 weeks, she wasn’t unduly worried. Still, she went to St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital and was admitted for overnight observation. Everything looked fine, and Torrez was actually completing paperwork for her 4 p.m. checkout when a nurse caught the baby’s heartbeat swooping dangerously low.

At 4:03 p.m., Vivian Raine Torrez entered the world, 29 weeks and 4 days old, weighing 3 pounds, 2 ounces.

Torrez and her fiancé, Wesley, found themselves in the painful position of having to resume their lives while their heart remained behind in an incubator inside St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital’s Level 4 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Although the NICU has 76 private rooms and parents are encouraged to stay on premises with their baby, that can become impractical when a baby has to stay for weeks or even months. Vivian, considered a micropreemie, would have to spend 60 days in the NICU being fed through a tube and helped to breathe, eat and regulate her temperature.

But one innovation made things a little easier for Vivian’s parents.

In December, St Joseph’s Children’s Hospital rolled out a technology called AngelEye CameraSystem. Thanks to a camera and a 5-inch LCD touch screen mounted in the baby’s room, parents can view their infants any time they want through an app they download on their device.

For Charles Ennis, director of patient care services for the NICU, AngelEye is another extension of the hospital’s dedication to family-centered care. “Baby is the most important patient, but we consider mom, dad and the family unit our patients as well,” Ennis says. “Their treatment is bonding. We balance caring for the baby but [also] strengthening that bond.”

Ennis explains that the mother gets administrative power and can make the other parent an administrator. She can give access to friends and relatives, who all have to create their own passwords to view the feed. Because AngelEye is linked to the hospital’s admission system, parents are assured an extra layer of security.

While nurses are actively caring for baby, they can turn off the feed with a button, and parents will see an image of a teddy bear and the message, “I am receiving my care now.” Caregivers can also send messages to parents through a one-way messaging system.

The AngelEye videos and messages became a lifeline for Vivian’s parents. As soon as she looked at the feed, Torrez could tell if her favorite day nurse, Elisabeth, was taking care of Vivian—the tape attaching Vivian’s tubes to her face would be cut into heart shapes, and Elizabeth had a special style of swaddling. Knowing Vivian was safe and loved, Torrez could schedule a doctor’s appointment, prep the nursery, eat a real breakfast, take a shower and sleep in her own bed at home.

“She took care of my baby before I did,” says Torrez, who still tears up thinking about Vivian’s care. “She did a better job than I could do at the time because she had the skills.”

Night nurse Janice sang Bob Marley lullabies to Vivian, and to this day, recordings of those songs calm the baby. “She could have changed her diaper in silence,” Torrez says. “But she spent time with her holding her and calming her down.” Because preemies’ measurements are often taken at night, Janice used the AngelEye app to message the results to Torrez, knowing she would wake up to pump breastmilk at 1 a.m. and be anxious for news.

In fact, thanks to AngelEye, Torrez was able to pump plentiful amounts of milk, even though Vivian could only latch on at 34 weeks. “Breastfeeding for NICU moms, it’s hard to keep up the supply,” Torrez says. “Being able to pump at home and look at baby helped. I was stressed, emotional, upset, yet I had an oversupply. It made me really happy.”

Ennis says St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital is launching a formal study into the app’s contribution to breast milk production for mothers of premature infants who are pumping. But he doesn’t need a study to tell him the effect it’s had on the hearts and minds of the babies’ family members, who have cumulatively racked up 10,000-plus views since the program went live in December,

from more than 30 states and from as far as Singapore and the Republic of Georgia. “It does take a village to raise a baby,” Ennis says. “Our role is only temporary in a baby’s life. The nurses and doctors work miracles, but it’s so important that we do everything we can to facilitate a strong bond with baby and the mother and family as if they never had to go into the NICU. Our mission is to care for the community. We’re always pushing boundaries of what that community means.”

Vivian Raine Torrez naps in the NICU while her parents observe her through AngelEyes technology.

There is no better way to relax than filling your stomach with a heart-warming, savory meal, along with a pint or a good Irish whiskey, so we’ve put together a list with some of the best Irish restaurants and pubs in the Tampa Bay Area.

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Florida Strawberry Festival:

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Strawberry Passions Organic Farm

photo by Brie Gorecki

Tradewinds Island Resorts in St. Pete Beach

Rubber Duck Race on the Hillsborough River

April 8, 2023 | 10 AM - 1 PM | Curtis Hixon Park

Join us as 10,000 ducks race down the Hillsborough River. The first duck to cross the finish line will win $5,000!

Other prizes through 10th place. Adopt a duck for $5 at tampaduckrace.com

By Kiwanian

Sponsored

Gene McDonald