September 2014 by Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

At St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, We Are on Call for Our Kids

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Contents

FAMILY EATS

features

28|perfectly flawed

10|family eats

Advice For Stepparenting

High Quality Only

30|Extraordinary woman

16|gifted Here’s How You Know

20|grand occasion Bonding With Grandparents

Candace Carswell

32|sugar, dairy and wheat Benefits of Eliminating Them

34|open

26|Er prevention

on the cover

The Mind & Have Fun

Avoiding Injuries

Photograph by Jeanine McLeod, Cloud 9 Studios

every month

Working on the September

06|Letter From The Editor

Parenting

14|after school

Bread in Wesley Chapel to

issue brought the Tampa Bay

Pg. 34

18|education 22|what's happening 24|health and wellness 36|South Hillsborough News

team

Panera

photograph Cover Kid Winner

Who’s ready

Imani Walters. Her drink is a

for school?

Superfruit fruit base with a mix of fruit purees, juices and juice concentrates,

blended

with

organic, plain Greek, nonfat

38|North hillsborough News

yogurt and ice, then boosted

40|South pinellas News

with ginseng.

TAMPA BAY PARENTING

• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

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Contents Founder & Editorial Director

Angela L. Ardolino Editor at Large

David E. Estevez Executive Assistant

Krista Byrd Associate Editor

Kimberley Brown Smith Contributing Writers

Amy Gall Gayla Grace Nekeshia Hammond, PsyD Jill Heckman, MD Lindsay Perez Shefali Tsbary, MD Julie Reyes Calendar & Neighborhood Stories

Chris Kuhn

John Byrne and I at the 2014 Back To School Fair at the Glazer Children’s Museum.

where did the summer go School has started!

Marketing Director

Susan Margolis Account Executive

Sandy Parrish account executive

Ralf Gonzalez public relations

Vayda Parrish Contributing photographers

Nicole Geller Jeanine McLeod Amy Pezzicara Social Moms

Laura Byrne Christina Fontana Lisa-Marie Leihy Rachel Long Amber Middelfart Ana Perleta Anna Tataris Laurie Winkles Tampa Bay parenting Magazine

P.0. Box 13365 Tampa, Florida 33681 Phone: 813-949-4400 Fax: 813-315-6688 info@tbparenting.com editor@tbparenting.com Become A Fan at:

Facebook.com/ tampabayparentingmagazine

I hope you and the kids have transitioned smoothly into the new school year. As the kiddos get back into the routine of tests and homework, some may excel at one or multiple subjects. Many bay area schools offer advanced programs for these students, often referred to as gifted programs. This month, psychologist Nekeshia Hammond provides insight on what these programs offer students and what it means if your child does or does not fall into this category on page 16. I’ve said time and again that I’m a believer in the “it takes a village” approach to parenting. For many bay area families, grandparents play a big role in rearing grandchildren. My grandmother Bebe played a huge role in my upbringing, and I can’t image my childhood without her. As we celebrate and honor grandparents for the 36th National Grandparents Day on Sept. 7, my friend Linda Hurtado talks about the special connection between a grandchild and grandparent and how to nurture that bond. We’ve also found some simple gifts to consider for the matriarch or patriarch of the family. Check it all out on page 20. Another person who plays a pivotal role in a child’s upbringing is a stepparent. When being introduced to the idea of a stepparent, many kids may think of the maniacal stepmother in Cinderella. And some stepparents do struggle to get beyond that perception and forge lasting relationships with the children of a spouse. On page 28, our resident stepmom Gayla Grace offers some advice on getting past the hurdles. With the passing of Labor Day on the first, the summer season will officially come to a close. It sure was a busy summer here at Tampa Bay Parenting, and I’m excited to share some news with you. I’ve partnered with two publishing professionals to form Media-AMJ, which will now oversee Tampa Bay Parenting and expand into new areas. We’re excited by the opportunity to help keep families informed both here in the Tampa Bay area and in other Sunshine State cities. Stay tuned for more exciting information. Lastly, I want to take a moment and thank everyone who participated in and attended the 2014 Back to School Fair! Thanks to the unwavering support of you and our sponsors — Woodmont Charter School, BayCare and St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, Verizon, The Mosaic Company, Tampa Bay Federal Credit Union, the Dairy Council of Florida and Fuel Up to Play 60, Mix 100.7, ABC Action News and the Tampa Tribune — we’re able to bring west central Florida families the largest Back to School event in the Tampa Bay area! You can see videos and pictures from this year’s event at www.backtoschoolfair.com. Have a great September!

Tampa Bay Parenting is published twelve times per year by Media-AMJ, Inc. It is delivered and mailed to subscribers and distributed at area supermarkets, community centers, libraries, doctor’s offices and other businesses with products and services for families. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission. TBPM is not responsible for statements made by advertisers or writers. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of information we print, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from omissions or errors. All photography and letters sent to TBPM will be treated unconditionally, assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. For information on where to find TBPM or how to become a distributor, call 813-949-4400 or email info@tbparenting.com. Copyright 20072014 by Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine. All rights reserved. Comments and suggestions are always welcome.

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FAMILY EATS

As parents, often the last place we want to take our children is to a sophisticated sit-down restaurant. We worry about how they will behave, whether they will eat the food, and whether they will even be welcome. (We’ve all seen the reports of restaurants banning children.) But when we don’t introduce our children to new places and new foods, we’re doing them and ourselves a disservice. You would be surprised at the foods children enjoy when they give them a chance. And having a fancy dinner every once in a while will also teach them how to behave in this setting as they grow. You may even end up with “picky” eaters who only choose good, healthy foods. No more chicken nuggets and hot dogs.

TAMPA BAY PARENTING

• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

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PANERA BREAD

Devoted to providing guests with quality food in a warm, inviting environment, Panera Bread’s 29 bakery cafe locations are a hit amongst moms and kids. Select organic and all-natural ingredients that make up some of the restaurant’s signature artisan breads and meals highlight the cafes’ menu. As well as serving customers in each café, Panera Bread works closely with community organizations to donate bread & baked goods daily to bay area residents in need. www.panera-tampa.com Our Favorites: Tomato & Mozzarella Panini, Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich, Pesto Sacchettini, Breakfast Power Sandwich, and of course the cookies.

FAMILY EATS: For small sophisticated palates CASITA TAQUERIA Opened in 2010 after the owners’ trip out west, this fun eatery for the entire family is perfect for a school night or weekend. Focusing on traditional Mexican cuisine, delicious dishes are served in a comfortable atmosphere. Home to typical Mexican dishes as well as unique bites, everyone’s bound to have a great time at this Pinellas County gem. www.casitatacos.com Our Favorites: Spicy Refried Bean Spread, Mexican Stone Soup, Mango Mahi Tacos

SUSHI ALIVE Unlike any other fushion restaurant in the bay area, prepare your palate for the ultimate sushi experience. Hand-selected chefs use the freshest ingredients when creating thoughtful pairings of tastes and textures all while honoring traditional Japanese cooking techniques. Whether you’re sitting at the sushi bar or in the main restaurant, your love of sushi will be taken to the next level. www.sushialive.com Our Favorites: Volcano Roll, Tempura JB Roll, Panko Crusted Crab cakes, Fried Cheese Cake

MISE EN PLACE Named #1 in the bay area by USA Today, Tampa’s premier restaurant for Modern American cuisine is an exciting and dynamic journey through flavors that reflect the Chef’s insatiable love of food as well as our region and our global community on the West Coast of Florida. The passion of independent proprietors is reflected in the spirit of the staff and the quality of the level of personal care in the dining experience. www.miseonline.com Our Favorites: Truffle Horseradish Crusted Salmon, Parsnip Puree, Lobster Poutine, Grilled Summer Squash

PANE RUSTICA This local favorite is a Zagat-rated restaurant and artisan bakery featuring handcrafted baked goods, savory lunch items and enticing dinners. Lunchtime customers can choose from hearth-baked pizza, sandwiches and salads in a casual atmosphere. In the evening, the menu and service style elevate to fine dining, serving unique wood-fired entrees, appetizers and small plates. Also available for private events and parties, it’s a perfect place to celebrate a birthday or anniversary. www.panerusticabakery.com Our Favorites: Fennel Seared Red Snapper, Rustica Salad, Rosemary Roasted Mushroom Pizza

ZGRILLE Located in the heart of downtown St. Petersburg, this fun and quirky eatery is just as eclectic as owner and Head Chef Zack. The menu’s focus on finger-type foods lets diners connect with their food in a palate-watering experience. At night, leave the kids at home and enjoy themed evenings that include special daily deals. www.zgrille.net Our Favorites: Seafood Nachos, WTF Fries, Brussels Sprouts, Root Vegetable Red Risotto

SONO CAFE Located on the lower level of the art museum in downtown Tampa, Sono Café overlooks Curtis Hixon Park and is just across the Hillsborough River from the University of Tampa and it’s towering minarets. Serving lunch during the week and family dinner on Friday night, it’s a perfect spot to hang out with the kids, enjoy the park and even walk fiddo in the nearby dog park. Perfect for a scoop of after school gelato or a sit down dinner, it’s a perfect locale to enjoy great food and bask in all things downtown Tampa.

www.miseonline.com/sonocafe

Our Favorites: Veggie Panini, Artichoke Dip, Grilled Cheese, Sono Cobb, Pickled Jalapeño

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A HEALTHIER OUTLOOK

September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month The Tampa Bay Area YMCAs – leaders in youth development and healthy living – want to help families in our community understand the risks of childhood obesity and how to incorporate regular physical activity and healthy eating into their lives. Join the YMCA today for a healthier outlook. Bring the family to a YMCA location near you and find activities and programs that help keep children active and healthy. YMCA afterschool programs are also designed to promote good nutritional habits and an active lifestyle. Registration is now open in Pinellas, Pasco, Hillsborough, Hernando, and Citrus Counties. Visit www.ymcatampabay.org for branch hours and locations.

TAMPA BAY PARENTING

• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

gifted?

Here’s how you know

aving a “gifted” child means different things depending on who you ask. For some parents, a gifted child is one who plays the piano in an outstanding way or has a superb singing voice. For others, a gifted child may be an amazing speller with an extensive vocabulary or a spelling bee champ. Regardless of what gifted means to you, most school districts define a student as gifted based on how the student learns and processes information.

In my psychology practice parents often ask, “Is my child gifted?” This can be a result of teachers, parents or other individuals in the child’s life noticing that the child is doing things above the child’s age level. Many times it’s because a teacher begins to notice that a child is doing exceptionally well in their academic work and they may refer the child to get an intellectual evaluation (IQ test). In some cases, parents will notice one of their children is processing information more rapidly than their other child or children. Most schools require an IQ score of 130 for acceptance into the Accelerated Gifted Program (AGP). However, some schools have different cut-offs. To put this score into perspective, an average score is 100 (give or take 10 points) and an IQ score of 130 is in the top 2.2% of individuals. If you feel your child is gifted, you can also request testing from your child’s school or an outside professional who does testing to determine if your child is in fact gifted.

What if my child does not qualify for the gifted program? Sometimes children are very bright but do not earn the score to get into the gifted program. There are several things to keep in mind. First, know that as a parent there are still many things that you can do to intellectually stimulate your child and promote good learning opportunities. You could take them to the museum, zoo, aquarium, learning camp or have “home adventures” where they learn advanced information outside of school. Second, if your child does not get into the program, it does not mean it will impact their success in their academic life or their life overall. There are many children who do not make it into the gifted program and still end up in International Baccalaureate (IB) or Advanced Placement (AP) classes. It is important that parents not focus too much on whether their child is good enough for a gifted program. Instead, parents should focus on their child’s strengths! Third, just because your child will not be enrolled in the gifted program does not mean they do not have other areas that they excel in that should be promoted. Perhaps the child is simply not gifted in academics, or they are a poor test taker but they are highly skilled in things such as sports, music, arts. There are many areas in a child’s life that they may be gifted in.

By Nekeshia Hammond, PsyD

What if my child does qualify for the gifted program? If your child receives the appropriate score from an intellectual assessment, they are considered eligible for a specific educational plan. However, keep in mind that many factors, not just her IQ score, should be considered before you head to the school’s office for the placement meeting. It’s important to recognize that many gifted programs are rigorous and your child will need to be prepared for the intellectual challenge of the program. An IQ test only measures someone’s capacity to learn. It does not measure things like motivation, academic endurance or success. Some children are gifted academically but have behavioral, attention, or emotional issues that interfere with their learning potential. Because of this it is best to assess your child’s emotional maturity. Is your child emotionally mature enough to handle a gifted program? Although many children with high intellectual abilities are indeed emotionally able to cope with a challenging program some may not be. As a parent you may not really know if your child can handle an AGP until your child actually begins the program. That being said, the process of enrollment into the gifted program begins once the school reviews the report with the IQ score and places the child accordingly. Make sure to be a strong advocate for your child in school by familiarizing yourself with the process of getting your child an Individual Educational Plan (IEP) and beginning the gifted education process. Schools vary with when the accelerated gifted program begins. Generally, it is in early elementary school. Remember, the gifted program is a chance for your child to receive a specific advanced curriculum designed to challenge your child and let your child thrive!

My child will be enrolled in a gifted program. Now what? Every child reacts differently to being placed into an AGP program. Some children are very excited and respond well to the advanced work, while other children are very nervous or even embarrassed of their newfound abilities. It is important to express to your child what being gifted means and what it does not mean. Being enrolled in an accelerated gifted program means your child typically will learn things quickly and in an advanced way, but the child still needs encouragement and reinforcement to keep them motivated. A child’s intellectual ability is only one facet of their development. There is also a child’s physical, emotional and social development that may or may not correspond to their intellectual capabilities. It is important to hone your child’s creative skills and praise academic accomplishments. Parents also should encourage their child to be well-rounded. Remind children of their other gifts and talents beyond academics. Maybe your child plays the guitar exceptionally well or excels at swimming, soccer or painting. In our office, we have seen many children extremely devastated by a B on a test because they felt like their only true strength was that they were a straight A student. Thus, it is so important to encourage an array of activities, both academic and extracurricular, to enhance children’s self-esteem.

For More Info on

Gifted Education Visit: f ldoe.org nagc.org TAMPA BAY PARENTING

• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

When in doubt, contact your school’s exceptional student education (ESE) department on requirements and resources. The bottom line is that it is important to stay informed about your child’s abilities and find a support network to get answers about gifted education. Nekeshia Hammond, PsyD, is a mother, licensed psychologist, and founder of Hammond Psychology & Associates, P.A. Her office conducts gifted testing and various psychological evaluations for children, teens and adults. Visit www.hammondpsychology.com.

School is back in session, but learning doesn’t have to be stressful! Kids can discover a whole new way to learn through play at the Glazer Children’s Museum. With over 170 educational ‘interactivities’ and 17 themed areas to explore, there’s always something new to discover! DID YOU KNOW? Annual memberships cost less than two general admission visits for the average family! For more information, visit GLAZERMUSEUM.ORG

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TAMPA BAY PARENTING

• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

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Grand occasion Bonding with grandparents By Linda Hurtado

ach year, summertime is grandparents’ time! According to a nationwide study by Grandparents. com, 81 percent of grandparents had their grandchildren for part or all of their summer vacation. More than half of them did more than just stay home! Sixty-six percent traveled with their grandkids – from road trips to cruising! With back-to-school routines overshadowing visits with grandparents, experts say it’s important to keep those summer bonds going and not just for your little ones. Doctors say it can mean the difference between a healthy mindset and the onset of depression when it comes to grandma and grandpa. The good news is that technology makes it easy to connect. The same survey that found 81 percent of grandparents hosting the kids during summer also found 75% of grandparents are wired! Nana and Papa are happily surfing the web and more than 50% of them are sharing pictures via email rather than snail mail! Another 45% of grandparents are now using social networks, including Facebook, LinkedIn and Yahoo groups. Instant messaging? Grandparents are doing that, too! Thirty percent and growing!

Like many grandparents, Jane Leep joined the social media world to connect with her grandchildren. “If they don’t text you, you can see what they are doing on Facebook,” Leep said. Dr. Amber Gum of the University of South Florida agrees that social media is a good way to keep your aging parents connected. Dr. Gum pointed out that it is important for older adults to keep active mentally and physically to combat depression.

• •

TAMPA BAY PARENTING

A charming book filled with fairy tales, poetry, songs and more, it’s a perfect read for grandma to share with the kids. WelcomeBooks.com

Shirt dudes Give the gift for the awesome grandpa in your life. Create custom T-shirts for him with the onestop-shop. TheShirtDudes.com

A 12-time Emmy Award-winning reporter, Linda Hurtado is the 5pm anchor and medical reporter for ABC Action News. Kristin Moore is special projects producer for ABC Action News.

•

Nothing is better than homemade gifts like handprints or framed paintings or drawings that you can change out each year. For some great ideas from our social moms visit www. Pinterest.com/tbparenting

Little Big book for grandmothers

There are things parents can do to help in this process. Dr. Gum says you can start by asking your parents a few questions, such as “What would you like to do more of that would bring meaning to your life?” and “How can I help you make that happen?” If geography makes it impossible to visit in-person, connecting by phone, email or social media can still deliver a potent dose of “happy”. Even the small talk about homework and playtime can have a big positive impact on the mind and spirit of aging parents. “It might be prayer,” says Dr. Gum, or “listening to inspirational recordings.” It’s like Care Bear says, “sharing is caring.”

Sunday, Sept. 7 is National Grandparents Day! Three decades ago, President Carter proclaimed the first Sunday after Labor Day as National Grandparents Day. Here are some fast facts on grandparents.

HOMEMADE GIFTS

GRAND GIFTS

•

70 million grandparents in the U.S. – 1/3 of the population They spend $52 billion every year on grandchildren alone They spend $32 billion on grandkids’ educational expenses 81% of grandparents in U.S. have their grandchildren for part or all of summer vacation 66% of grandparents have never celebrated Grandparents Day. Let’s change that this year!

• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

croquet set Enjoy this traditional lawn game made of sustainable resources. These high quality sets come in various sizes. UberGames.co.uk

color me mine Take a trek to Hyde Park Village to make one-of-a-kind ceramic gifts for the grandparents like this handprint mug. Tampa. ColorMeMine.com

grandparent photo book Devote some time to arranging a photographer to capture the grandparents and the grandkids and then compile it into a unique book of memories. PhotosOnCloud9.com

Ages 3 - 5 Puppets with Pizzazz

Mini Science Adventure Days - Diggin’ It

Sept. 16 • 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Tues., Sept. 23 or Thurs., Sept. 25 2 – 3:30 p.m.

Program fee: $10 per parent/child team MOSI member: $6 parent/child team Join a professional puppeteer and learn about the many types of puppets and see a shadow puppet demonstration! Make a puppet using recycled materials, and have fun putting on your own show!

Program fee: $15 per parent/child team

Advance registration required for all preschool programs.

MOSI member: $10 parent/child team Go on a rock hunt, then sort and classify rocks. You’ll “dig” this class where we make a volcano erupt, break open a “treasure rock” and create a pebble mosaic.

NOW OPEN

MOSI’s preschool science programs are sponsored in part by

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4801 E. FOWLER AVE., TAMPA, FL 813-987-6000 • MOSI.ORG

MOSI is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, community-based institution and a leader in S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) education dedicated to making a difference in people’s lives by making science real.

What's Happening Working Women of Florida Conference With kids back in school, working moms can refocus on their careers. What better way to do that than by attending the Working Women of Florida Conference? Taking place Sept. 11-12 at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater, the Working Women state conference is packed with motivation, education and inspiration. There is a networking reception the evening of Sept. 11 and a full day of speakers Sept. 12, including keynote speaker Alex Sink, Andrea Waltz, Megan Smith, Danielle Vona and our very own Angela Ardolino. www.workingwomenconference.com

Startup Weekend Youth Tampa Is your fifth, sixth, seventh or eighth grader a budding entrepreneur who is full of ideas? Check out the Startup Weekend Youth Tampa. With exercises and experiences to inspire creative young minds, youth will learn how to move their ideas forward and will get the chance to collaborate with peers. In addition to gaining confidence, they can even pitch their ideas and get feedback from local entrepreneurs! The event is Sept. 12-14 at Carrollwood Day School. Tickets are $25 per child. Visit website for schedule and details. www.tbparenting.com/startupyouth

Fashion Week Tampa Bay Celebrate Tampa’s unique style at Tampa Bay Fashion Week. This event brings talented fashion and accessories designers to the Tampa Bay area to showcase their work for local, regional and national retail buyers, boutique owners and consumers. The annual event is Sept. 17-20 and will feature spring and summer collections. The event will benefit aspects of life that deeply touch the hearts of us all — the well-being of and service to our world, our children, our health, our future and our dreams. After all, these are the things that make your style so unique, and that’s always in fashion! www.fashionweektampabay.com

Kid's art fest 2014 Head over to the Dunedin Fine Art Center from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on September 13 for an exciting exploration of the arts. Children of all ages are invited to participate at this annual gathering to help get families more involved in the arts. Guests will enjoy art, food and music as well as fun for everyone. Admission is free. www.dfac.org/tbp

Cheval Cares 5K Family Fun run Thousands of kids in our community are bravely battling cancer. On Sept. 20, the third annual Cheval Cares 5K Family Fun Run will honor and celebrate those children. This fundraising walk/run will feature a 5K course through the Cheval neighborhood, with a family celebration at the Chateau playground and pool deck immediately after. Registration begins at 7 a.m., and the fun run begins at 8 a.m. The registration fee is $25 for adults and $15 for kids 12 and younger. Proceeds benefit the Pediatric Cancer Foundation. www.tbparenting.com/chevalcares5k

TAMPA BAY PARENTING

• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

Spooky creatures take over 1800’s England in London Frightmare, the newest of our six creepy, fun haunted houses for monsters of all ages during ZooBoo at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo. Don’t miss free rides, huge flying fox bats, games & more!

$12 WEEKEND SHRIEK PEEK

SEPT. 26-27

presented by

OCT. 3-4, 10-12, 17-19, 23-26 & 30-NOV. 1 • OPENS NIGHTLY AT 7PM $14 for children (ages 3-11) • Kids ages 2 & under are FREE $18 for adults (ages 11 and up) • PARKING IS FREE

NIGHTLY DISCOUNTS FOR ANNUAL ZOO PASS HOLDERS

TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT LowryParkZoo.org

* Shriek Peek is a discounted, soft opening. Attractions may experience technical difficulties and/or be closed without notice. Refunds and rain checks not issued during Shriek Peek Weekend. Event and/or attractions may close due to inclement weather or circumstances. ZooBoo is a fundraising event for Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to education, recreation, conservation & research.

Your Family’s Destination for Comprehensive Skin Care Your family members may have different priorities when it comes to skin care.

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Dr. Linda Flynn, M.D. Board Certified Dermatologist

Abigail Ray ARNP-BC

Whether you are trying to control acne before it becomes scarring; are concerned about a suspicious mole; or just want to minimize wrinkles and look more youthful and refreshed, you want to see dermatology experts who have the knowledge, experience and resources to address your concerns. You want Comprehensive Skin Care.

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• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

Our practice is proud to be certified by:

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Er prevention

Low-Cost Safety Items available at the Safety Store:

Avoiding Injuries

Baby safety gate Bike helmets Car seats (with free installation assistance) Child-proofing products Door alarms Fire safety products

By Laura Byrne Did you know that more than 3 million children are treated in an ER due to accidental injury in the United States each year? Sadly, about 2,000 of them succumb to their injuries.

The Safety Store is in St. Joseph’s Medical Arts Building in Tampa. Open 10am-3pm Tuesday-Friday; call 813-554-8510.

“The worst thing I hear in our Steinbrenner Children’s Emergency/Trauma Center is, ‘I didn’t think it would happen to me,’ ” says Bevin Maynard, a supervisor with St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Child Advocacy Center. A trip to the ER is terrifying and one that often doesn’t have to happen. Maynard notes that 90% of injuries treated in the ER are preventable, and it’s her job to help educate the community about how to prevent these injuries. While no one plans for accidents, knowing in advance where to take your child in the event of an emergency can be the key to their survival. Children have unique issues and illnesses. A pediatric trauma center has the appropriate equipment and team accustomed to kids.

Download Free Safety Coloring Book: http://www.cdc.gov/injury/pdfs/ ColorMeSafe_eng-a.pdf

preventing leading causes of child injury Drowning •

Whether it’s a class, a free car seat inspection or even access to low-cost injury-prevention products in the Safety Store or education on injury prevention in the Steinbrenner Children’s Emergency/ Trauma Center, the Child Advocacy Center is here to support your family with valuable information and keep your children safe.

90% • • • • • • • •

Infant and child CPR Pediatric first aid Car seat distribution classes Car seat inspection Safe baby express Water safety Safe sitter classes Teen talk

TAMPA BAY PARENTING

•

Make sure infants sleep alone; placed on their backs on a firm surface. Be sure crib meets safety standards. Avoid loose bedding or soft toys in crib.

•

Keep medicines away from children and teens. Keep cleaning solutions and other toxic products in original packaging and where children can’t get them.

•

• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

Learn to swim—important for parents and kids. Use a four-sided fence with self-closing and self-latching gates around pool. Watch kids closely when they swim.

Fire/burns

Poisoning

• •

Use smoke alarms—where people sleep and on every level of the home—and test monthly. Create and practice a family fire escape plan. Install a home fire sprinkler system if possible.

Motor Vehicle Crashes •

•

Always use seat belts, child safety seats and booster seats that are correct for a child’s age and weight. Use safe-driving agreements or contracts with teens.

Falls •

• •

For more information, go to www.baycareevents.org.

•

of ER visits are PREVENTABLE and St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital’s Child Advocacy Center offers a variety of classes to help.

•

Suffocation

Use a soft landing surface on playgrounds (sand, mulch) not dirt or grass. Use protective gear, like a helmet, during sports and recreation. Install protective rails on bunk beds and loft beds.

Your To Exceptional Pediatric Care

Trust us with the health of your family. We’re experienced, compassionate and close to home. n Same-day appointments available n Offices have been awarded the highest level of Recognition by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) as a Physician Practice Connections® — Patient-Centered Medical Home™ n Board-certified physicians Westchase 10909 W. Linebaugh Ave. Suite 100 Tampa, FL 33626

Lutz Cypress Creek 24630 State Road 54 Lutz, FL 33559

South Tampa/Hyde Park 1919 W. Swann Ave. Tampa, FL 33629

Brandon Bloomingdale Square 873 E. Bloomingdale Ave. Brandon, FL 33511

Van Dyke 4683 Van Dyke Road Lutz, FL 33558

Virginia Avenue 2506 W. Virginia Ave. Tampa, FL 33607

Parsons 110 S. Parsons Ave. Brandon, FL 33511

Tampa Grand Plaza 14499 N. Dale Mabry Highway Suite 230 Tampa, FL 33618

Walk in Care Pediatric Walk-In Care 4211 Van Dyke Road Suite 100 Lutz, FL 33558 Open nights and weekends

To schedule an appointment: (855) 466-6866

BC1403883-0814

BayCareMedicalGroup.org

perfectly

flawed

Advice for stepparenting By Gayla Grace

y husband Randy will be the first to tell you he has done a lot of things wrong as a stepfather. He has been a stepparent to my two daughters for almost two decades, and his stepdaughters love him dearly. But it hasn’t always been that way. My youngest daughter Jodi was 3 when we married. Jamie was 5. Randy had a difficult time with Jamie from the beginning. She didn’t want another dad in her life, and she made that clear to him. He overheard a conversation between the two girls one night in the bathtub during our first year of marriage. “I hate him, too. I can’t believe Mom married him,” Jamie told Jodi. There was little love, or even like, between Randy and the girls in the beginning. Randy tried hard to make up for the dysfunction of their biological dad. Insisting he would be the dad they didn’t have, he jumped into the parenting role too quickly, encountering resistance and rebellion with every move. He was surprised to find his efforts backfire, creating confusion and chaos for him. During our second year of marriage, Randy left the house one evening and called from a nearby hotel. “I’m not coming home tonight. I’m not sure I’m coming home again. I can’t cope with the ongoing conflict between me and you and the kids.” It was a tough season. Randy brought two children to the marriage also and attempting to blend our four kids, ages 3-10, while learning how to stepparent and parent together proved harder than we anticipated. But neither of us wanted to endure another divorce. Randy and I began counseling that year to work through the bumps. As we moved into the elementary years, Randy developed a rhythm with the girls. A natural comedian, they loved his sense of humor and began to accept him as another

TAMPA BAY PARENTING

parent in their lives. Bonding between him and the girls had been slow but no longer seemed impossible. The relationships among the four kids blossomed and life appeared manageable again.

{

Stepparenting is tough. Mistakes are made. Misunderstandings happen.

But the teen years were just around the corner. As a teenager, Jamie challenged us at every turn. If Randy punished her in the slightest, she threatened to call Child Protective Services. She ran away more times than I can remember (but thankfully never went far). After one particularly aggravating day with defiant behavior, Randy took Jamie’s cell phone and threw it to the ground. As it busted into several pieces, Jamie began yelling at us both. The night didn’t end well. And I wasn’t sure the sun would come up the next day. But it did. And Randy didn’t give up on his stepparenting journey with Jamie. When she reached driving age, Randy wanted to teach her to drive. She tested every ounce of his patience. They would come in from a driving session hardly talking to one another, Jamie’s anger brewing over. But the next day, they were back at it again.

}

left in early summer and we knew it would be difficult to communicate with her while she was gone. However, as I suspected, she made sure to call on Father’s Day, despite the sevenhour time difference between us. When Randy answered the phone, I saw tears in his eyes as he listened to Jamie recount life-changing experiences knowing he had contributed to her stability and maturity that enabled her to now make a difference with others. She closed with the words every stepfather loves to hear, “Happy Father’s Day, Dad. I love you. I miss you.” Do you have to be a perfect stepparent to have a meaningful relationship with your stepchildren? No! Randy’s stepdaughters, Jodi, now 21, and Jamie, now 23, love their imperfect stepdad. How did that happen? Randy never quit. He got up when he fell down. He sought help when he needed answers. He cried. He prayed. He struggled. He fought. He apologized. He forgave. He smiled with gritted teeth. But he never quit. Is it a cycle? Yes. You take one step forward and two steps backward. You celebrate a season of growth and then start a season of despair. You gain the insider status one day and feel like an outcast the next. Does that mean you failed? No.

During her high school years, Jamie participated in competitive cheerleading. Randy would jokingly say, “Do you call cheerleading a sport?” The ongoing drama with other cheerleaders, out-of-town competitions, and continuous suction cup to his wallet threw Randy into stress overdrive. His grumpiness overshadowed his joy at times. But he didn’t quit supporting Jamie and the things that made her tick. As Jamie left for college, I’ll never forget her words to him. With a huge hug and a smile on her face she said, “Thank you for being such a great dad to me. I love you!” Jamie recently returned from an eight-month missionary journey in Mozambique, Africa. She

• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

Stepparenting is tough. Mistakes are made. Misunderstandings happen. Variables outside our control influence stepfamily relationships. But there are new tomorrows, a fresh start to work through differences. Hope for harmony. As a stepparent, you’ve been given an opportunity to influence a young child’s life like no one else can — in an imperfect way. Are you up for the challenge? I hope so. Because my husband will tell you there are rewards to stepparenting, even when you’re not perfect, but oftentimes they’re at the end of the journey. As the Japanese proverb says, “Fall seven times, stand up eight.” Gayla Grace is a stepfamily coach. Visit www. stepparentingwithgrace.com.

Extraordinary

Woman

By Angela Ardolino

Mastering the art of motherhood, work and community.

Originally from Detroit, Candace Carswell has lived in the Tampa Bay area for 26 years. The single mother of two teenagers, Caleb, 15, and Alexandria, 13, has more than 26 years’ experience in the banking industry. She currently serves as a sales specialist for Tampa Bay Federal Credit Union.

suffered the loss of my marriage of 15 years, a dramatic change in career directions, a bout with cervical cancer, and an accident that left me in a coma for two days. I remember waking up in the hospital thinking I better get on with the business of living immediately. I have tried to be a positive person ever since.

support me and assist me. My community consists of my family, a wonderful group of empowering friends, and the tremendous support of my bosses and my co-workers. These are the people who know my story and are there to support me and help me stay focused and positive.

What do you think is the secret to your family's success?

What is your biggest achievement?

What else would you like to share with our readers?

My family shares a tremendous faith in God. As a Family we believe whatever joy or difficulties we may face in life that God will help see us through those moments. Another very important aspect of our relationship as a Family is we Love BIG and we laugh hard as often as we can. We live in a very positive household where laughter is very important. We are genuinely fond of each other and that closeness makes everyday something to look forward to.

What is your biggest fear? I am very afraid of holding on to past fears, failures and personal hurts. I believe that fear can negatively affect any good experiences I will have in my future. Fear also has the ability to affect those around me. So I try to think of fear another way. I look at fear as a powerful motivator. Fear motivates me to turn to God and my family for strength. I am grateful to fear for that response.

What advice would you give to other women? Always love yourself. It’s hard to ask others to love us if we first don’t love ourselves. I would imagine a lot of single mothers struggle with self image issues because we are constantly holding ourselves to standards of other households that actually have the benefit of two parents in them. We are our own species. Single mothers have a strength and courage that is forged out of the ability to take care of a household as an individual.

What is your proudest moment? I am proud to be a survivor and that moment happens for me every day. A few years ago I

TAMPA BAY PARENTING

My children are my greatest achievement. Everyday they teach me more about life just by letting me share their experiences. My son Caleb is bright, charming and extremely witty. It makes me proud to see him growing into the person he will become, and I just love spending time with him. He is just awesome. My daughter Alexandria is loving and resilient. Alexandria is living with severe autism. Her understanding of life could easily be determined by this disability, but she makes strides every day toward achieving her own miracle. I am honored to be a part of her life. Alexandria’s spirit and joy are absolutely contagious. She is simply amazing. Caleb and Alexandria teach me how to love a little bit better everyday.

What makes you happy? There is a saying, “The happiest people don’t necessarily have the best of everything; they simply make the best of everything.” I work very hard on trying to make the best of everything. I want to be a happy person, and I allow myself to believe I deserve happiness. My greatest moments of joy come from making my family and friends laugh. It’s good for the soul.

Try to love what you do. It only amplifies who you are! For example, I love being a mom, and I love working at Tampa Bay Federal Credit Union! The credit union is very supportive of me as an individual, my family, and the Tampa Bay community. It has been an amazing blessing to be a part of this organization.

How do you enjoy or draw information from the magazine? Tampa Bay Parenting gives great guidance and informational articles that assist me in the parenting process. Everything from fostering my children’s mental and physical health to everyday tips on how to help my children in their lives at school and at home. The magazine is a great resource for parents who live in this community.

What is your favorite thing to do with your kids? Tampa Bay has so much to offer — Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo, Busch Gardens, the Glazer Children’s Museum and beautiful parks. We start each day together talking about how we would like to spend our time together.

How do you relax and take time for yourself?

Who is your biggest inspiration or role model?

Down time with the kids is the best form of relaxation for me. We watch movies together and spend time at the pool. It’s nice to sit still and just be in the moment with the kids.

My role models are the people who help me shape my world. One such person is my mother Patrice Carswell. She is the other half of the woman I am. She is very encouraging and a wonderful moral anchor. I often review important decisions regarding work and home with her because every decision I make as a parent affects her as well. She is beautiful, honest and exceedingly kind. There will never be enough wonderful things to say about her. I thank God for her presence in my life every day.

What kind of message would you like to give women? My message is that there are resources in our community to assist you in everyday life. I am blessed with a community of people that

• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

Candace carswell Candace enjoys spending time with the kids in the familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s neighborhood community center.

Photo by Jeanine McLeod, Cloud 9 Studios

e have all experienced that feeling, the one you get after you eat something that is really bad for you and you know that you are going to feel sick for the rest of the day. Once that feeling is gone, it can be easy to think that the foods you ate won’t wreak any more havoc-- but think again.

Sugar, wheat, and dairy have been the culprits for many illnesses that go beyond the common tummy ache in adults and kids alike. “The average person consumes 180 pounds of sugar a year. Obesity has a relationship with high carbs and sugar,” said Dr. Cesar Lara . “Refined carbs (anything that is manufactured) send a surge in insulin to try to drop the sugar, but it makes you crave and rebound or roller coaster with foods, causing insulin resistance. Insulin resistance also causes inflammation, which can cause cardiovascular problems, diabetes, and cancer.” The long and short of it: you are unknowingly turning your body against itself.

sugar, dairy and wheat, oh my

In America, these three ingredients seem like staples-- you almost can’t imagine life without them, but the problem lies in digestion when it comes to all three ingredients. According to Dr. Lara, we are all born with an enzyme called lactase which is in our bodies to help up break down milk, but as we age the amount of the lactose enzyme in our bodies decreases. “We are the only species to drink milk as an adult, and the only species to drink another animal’s milk, so we cannot digest it,” said Dr. Lara. Add this with steroids and antibiotics that are often given to milk cows and it can make a person very sick.

The Benefits of Eliminating Them

By Krista Byrd

The problem with wheat comes down to gluten. Gluten is what gives bread dough that elastic texture that makes it easier to bake, but the body was not meant to break down these refined foods. According to Dr. Lara, 75% of the world cannot digest gluten, while only 1% of the world has celiac disease, which is a complete gluten allergy. Gluten can also be dangerous as it has been linked to schizophrenia, autism, and epilepsy. When you eat gluten, dairy, or sugar, your body will also produce antibodies to start attacking these ingredients since they can’t be broken down, and in the process those antibodies will attack your stomach itself. The list of problems this causes goes on and on, with stomach pain being just a small symptom. So, how can you stop these three dangerous foods from hurting your kids and how can you reverse damage they may already be doing? Dr. Lara recommends that adults identify a reason to cut them out. “If you have a medical reason, it is much easier to let go of these things,” he said. With more and more children getting type two diabetes, it is important to try to at least cut down on them. Dr. Lara recommends that you should wean your kids off rather than go cold turkey with them, since they may see it as more of a punishment than something that will be good for them. Going cold turkey or even just weaning off of these ingredients might seem impossible, but there are some great substitutions you can make. For example, pure honey, agave, and blackstrap molasses are great sweeteners without all of the negative effects of artificial sweeteners like Sweet-N-Low. Some common dairy replacements are oat milk, almond milk, and rice milk, but it is important to make sure that they are coming from organic farms with healthy farming practices. A rule of thumb when choosing sweeteners, dairy replacements, wheat substitutes, or any food for that matter, is to avoid anything that has been processed or altered. Another great option to get rid of harmful things in your diet is the weight loss plan from Dr. Cesar Lara. “We mainly focus on helping people achieve and healthy weight and overall health. We get them off of refined carbs and use vegetables, fruits and natural proteins. Once they have reached their goal, we reintroduce some things (like pizza) as a once-in-a-while treat. We make sure to educate them so that they know how to look for nutrients.” Dr. Lara said. If you still can’t seem to kick a craving, Dr. Lara has a world renowned hypnotist on staff to help you stay on track. It is important to consult a medical professional before you start any diet. Eliminating these ingredients from your diet can help you lead a happier, healthier life.

TAMPA BAY PARENTING

• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

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the mind & have fun xo tablet This WiFi-enabled tablet from One Laptop Per Child comes with parental controls and learning software.. $59 One.Laptop.org

flip 2 b fit This exciting fitness board game lets kids compete and build team spirit and individual goals while stretching, jumping and twisting their way to Springers’ Park! $35 Flip2BFit.com

Write Your own labels Whenever you need a waterproof label on the fly, these are your go-to solution. Now you’ll always have labels on hand when you need them. $10 EmilyPress.com

100 Games that make kids think Tease the kids’ brains with these fun

Color code game Help kids learn shapes and colors with this innovative brain-teasing game that is fresh and new every time you play. $20 SmartGames.eu

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• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

games that test words, math, logic and memory. $11 ZephyrPress.org

Animal Flash drive Fun for all ages (even mom and dad), these 2 GB drives are a stylish way to back up photos, documents, music and more from your computer. $9 Emtec-International.com

Something cool lost my name Teach tots how to spell their name with these personalized books. Printed on eco-friendly paper,

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Terry shark robe Whether for bath time or pool time, make a splash and keep your wiggly little one warm and dry with this robe that cuddles and doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t bite. $35 BabyAspen.com

wikki stix piggy bank Just decorate and add change to this little piggy bank that makes saving money fun! $20 WikkiStix.com

sTar wars workbooks These workbooks make learning in this galaxy lots of fun. $10 per book Workman.com

Cracker Country Welcomes Homeschoolers This month, the Mildred W. and Doyle E. Carlton Jr. Cracker Country extends a special welcome to educators and students for Homeschool Day on Sept. 19. The event is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cracker Country held its first ever Homeschool Day last year. “We got such enthusiastic feedback from the homeschoolers who attended that we decided to make this a twice a year event, held in the spring and the fall,” says Museum Director Cindy Horton. “Each Homeschool Day will have a different theme, highlighting various aspects of life in late 19th century rural Florida.” Mildred W. and Doyle E. Carlton, Jr. Cracker Country is a rural Florida living history museum on the Florida State Fairgrounds. The museum includes a collection of 13 original buildings dating from 1870-1912. Educational interpreters in historic dress will guide young learners through activities that would have been familiar to a child growing up in a Florida farming and ranching community more than 100 years ago. Young visitors will get to try their hand at churning butter, helping with household chores, making candles and taking a lesson in a one-room school house. Admission for the museum is $7 per person with kids younger than 5 free. Visitors will receive free parking for this event when they enter the fairgrounds via the Orient Road entrance. Advance registration is recommended but not required. The first 100 to register at www.crackercountry.org will receive a Cracker Country Electronic Field Trip DVD. For more information on Cracker Country events, contact Programs Supervisor of Cracker Country Living History Museum Jennifer Becker at Jennifer.Becker@freshfromflorida. com or 813-627-4225.

Waterworks park opens in Downtown Tampa Mayor Buckhorn joined Richard Gonzmart of Columbia Restaurant Group and Michael Babb of the Southwest Florida Water Management District and other community leaders for the official ribbon-cutting of the new Water Works Park in downtown Tampa. During the festivities on Aug. 12, the Rotary Club of Tampa presented a check for $40,000 to the city for the naming rights for the Downtown Rotary Pavilion in Waterworks Park as part of the club’s 100th anniversary celebration this year. The official launch included a festival on Aug. 16 and featured food trucks, children’s activities and entertainment. The 5-acre park features a play area modeled after a ship, splash pad, 8,500 square foot dog run, performance pavilion, and open lawn for events. The Tampa Riverwalk also was extended to run throughout the park along the Hillsborough River. Ulele Spring, formerly Magbee Spring, has been restored and opened to the river. In addition to the park improvements and spring restoration, the city of Tampa leased the historic Water Works Building adjacent to the park to the Columbia Restaurant.

TAMPA BAY PARENTING

• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

dates: Sept. 2, 2:45 - 5:15 p.m. Back to the School on the Web Stop by Town N Country Regional Public Library for a look at electronic resources available to students in grades 3-12. Learn about eBooks and databases the library’s computer lab offers. Call 813-273-3652.

Sept. 9 and 23, various times MOPS Meetings at Hyde Park Join Mothers of Preschoolers for fellowship, support and resources to learn and grow at Hyde Park UMC. Meetings are 9:30-11:30 a.m. and 6:30-8:30p.m. Child care is available. www.facebook.com/ HydeParkMOPS/info

Sept. 16, 4:30 - 7 p.m. Hob Nob 2014 Talk with area candidates, local businesses and media at this event hosted by the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce at The Regent in Riverview. Vote for your favorite candidates in the Hob Nob Straw Poll. Event includes appetizers and cash bar. Tickets: $10 students, $25 adults ($30 at the door). www. brandonchamber.com

Sept. 18, 6:30 p.m. Beach Blanket Bunco for the Arts Spend a night at Centre Place Fine Arts and Civic Association in Brandon for a good cause. Event includes dinner, drinks, prizes and a 50/50 drawing. Tickets: $20. www. centerplacebrandon.org

Sept. 23-25, 7 p.m. Seaborn Day Schools Open Houses Awarded the Best of 2014 by Tampa Tribune, parents will get a chance to tour one of three facilities in Tampa on three different days; Hyde Park Day School - Sept. 23, Seaborn Day School Davis Island - Sept. 24 and Seaborn Day School Beach Park - Sept. 25. www.seaborndayschools.com

Sept. 27, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Fall Stampede 5K and 1-Mile Run Lace up for this fundraiser at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in downtown Tampa. Proceeds benefit the Children’s Cancer Center. www.childrenscancercenter.org

Seagate Chiropractic reveals Health Essentials Dr. Suzanne Demers of Seagate Chiropractic, who officially launched her Tampa area practice at a grand opening event on Aug. 16, recently shared health tips with the Carrollwood community. During the event, which also raised school supplies for area charities, visitors were introduced to Dr. Demers, her team and the services available through a designated Maximized Living Health Center. Trained by renowned doctors, Dr. Demers has received advanced certification in nutrition and spinal correction. Good health has become a personal mission that originated with her own health challenges. “I was living life, thought I was perfectly healthy, and the next morning, I couldn’t get out of bed,” Dr. Demers says. She was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, and, after much research, decided that she was not going to live under the disease’s control. She changed her lifestyle, integrated the Maximized Living concept into her daily living, and in three years, experienced no more stomach issues or relapses. She knows now that her spine was the culprit, along with stress, causing distress inside her body. Dr. Demers specializes in structural correction chiropractic – getting the spine from where it is to where it should be. “If the spine isn’t in the proper position, it can be causing pain or those health issues that you’ve never been able to get the answer for,” she says. She has set out to educate people about the source of their pain and the power of the five essentials espoused through the Maximized Living program: a maximized mind; a healthy nervous system; good nutrition; daily exercise (even as few as 12 minutes per day); and minimized toxins. For more information, visit www.seagatechiropractic.com or 813-217-3539.

Free Self Defense Workshop for Area Kids Enforce Krav Maga Self Defense is hosting a free Parent & Child Back to School Workshop from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Sept. 20 at its Carrollwood center. The event will reinforce the importance of self-defense for children, particularly kids ages 8-14. During this informative and interactive workshop, children will practice personal safety skills together with their parents and learn how these skills can assist them in handling everyday safety issues and emergencies. Senior lead instructor and owner of Enforce Krav Maga Jeff Anderson and his highly trained team of instructors have built, on average, 15-20 years of martial arts experience as well as certification across a diverse set of disciplines. The team has integrated its wealth of knowledge and experience into the workshop curriculum, which focuses on practical self-defense skills and values like integrity, honesty and perseverance. Enforce Krav Maga Self Defense has been selected for 2013 Best of Tampa Award and 2014 Best of Tampa Award in the Martial Arts School category by the Tampa Award Program. Those who plan to attend the free workshop should RSVP at www. enforcekravmaga.com or call 813-395-1917 for information.

TAMPA BAY PARENTING

• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

dates: Sept. 3 and 24, 2 - 4 p.m. Mom and Baby Support Group Meet fellow new moms at Florida Hospital Tampa’s Women’s Health Pavilion. Babies 4 weeks to 4 months can interact while moms chat about issues related to motherhood. Registration not required. www.fhtampa.org

Sept. 5 - 27, various times Little Shop of Horrors Be there when a feisty, soulful, exotic plant with a mysterious craving takes the stage at Carrollwood Players Theatre. Tickets: $23 general admission, $20 seniors, students and military with ID. www.carrollwoodplayers.org

Sept. 7 and 12, various times Baroque Bonanza and Crossover Craze See the South Florida Lyric Opera (SFLO) at Carrollwood Cultural Center. At 2 p.m. Sept. 7, hear Baroque music. At 7:30 p.m. Sept. 12, enjoy a fun and funky blend of music from opera to showtunes. Each concert is $20. Proceeds benefit the center and SFLO. www. carrollwoodcenter.org

Sept. 16 - 17, 2 - 3 p.m. Alice Rocks Wonderland Get pumped up as ACT for Youth brings a rock musical version of the beloved Lewis Carroll tale to the stage at Carrollwood Cultural Center. Admission: $6 members and $7 nonmembers, and $24 for family four-pack. www.carrollwoodcenter.org

Sept. 27, 2 - 3 p.m. Inspire Curiosity with Curious George Stop by the Lutz Branch Library to celebrate Curious George. Children grades K-5 and their caregivers can enjoy stories, games and crafts. Call 813-273-3652.

Sept. 27, 4 - 8 p.m. Inaugural Fire Truck Chase Debuting at Temple Terrace Elementary, this fundraiser benefits women impacted by breast cancer. Spaghetti dinner (sponsored by Temple Terrace Fire Local 3582) is 4-8 p.m., with race to start at 5 p.m. Dinner is $5 for race participants and $10 for supporters. Cost to race is $25 for 5K and $10 for 1-mile fun run. Overall male and female 5K winners will win a fire helmet. www.templeterrace.com

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OlderLundyLaw.com Older & Lundy Law â&#x20AC;˘ 3014 West Palmira Ave, Suite 202, Tampa, Florida 33629

South pinellas pinellas park | seminole | st. pete beach largo | st. petersburg | treasure island Photo by Jeanine McLeod, Cloud 9 Studios

Focus on Cyberbullying Awareness The Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners recently recognized Gulf Coast Giving’s cyberbullying awareness, prevention and intervention efforts as it prepares to host Pinellas County’s second Cyberbullying Awareness Week (Sept. 22-26). During this week, Gulf Coast Giving partners with likeminded organizations to create projects and activities for the Pinellas community to raise cyberbullying awareness and promote its prevention and intervention. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among young people, resulting in 4,400 deaths per year, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). For every suicide among youth ages 10 -14, there are at least 100 suicide attempts. Bully victims are two to nine times more likely to consider suicide. The basis of Cyberbullying Awareness Week 2014 is a packed schedule of free events for Pinellas youth, schools, parents and the community at large. These free events are designed to bring awareness, prevention and intervention to cyberbullying and encourage integrity. The week will wrap up with a free celebration open to all Pinellas residents featuring food, music, carnival games for the kids, rock climbing walls, face painting, celebrity appearances and more. Gulf Coast Giving’s cyberbullying awareness program officially launched last year with the inaugural Cyberbullying Awareness Week, which impacted more than 100,000 youth in area public and private schools and drew more than 750 youth in attendance for the celebration. Go to www.gulfcoastgiving.org for details on this year’s event.

All Children's Shares Concussion Knowledge All Children’s Hospital Johns Hopkins Medicine is sharing a new video, Concussion: Return to Learning, with area school districts and youth coaches to highlight the importance of recognizing and addressing the symptoms of concussion. According to the CDC, concussion-related injuries increased by 60 percent in the past decade. A team of Pinellas County physicians and school district leaders recently developed a return to learning policy, which requires physical and cognitive rest before a student can return to their academic activities full-time after suffering a concussion-related injury. “Concussions symptoms can sometimes be hard to recognize and can become even worse if a child or teen suffers a second impact because it could lead to lifelong problems,” says Patrick Mularoni, MD, medical director of Pediatric Sports Medicine at All Children’s Hospital Johns Hopkins Medicine. “The return to learning policy provides key communication between the healthcare provider and the student’s teacher,” says Lori Matway, Pinellas County Associate Superintendent of Student & Community Services. Many local schools and youth league teams in the Tampa Bay area plan to show the concussion video to their instructors and coaches during the 2014-2015 school year. Go to www.allkids.org/concussion to request a free copy of the DVD or view it online.

TAMPA BAY PARENTING

• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

dates: Sept. 1, noon - 3 p.m. Labor Day Poolside Picnic Pack up the family and a blanket for a picnic by the pool at Highland Family Aquatic Center in Largo. Enjoy a special family and friends discount admission. Splash’s Snack Bar will be open. www. largopools.com

Sept. 20, 11 a.m. First Responders Chili Cookoff & Classic Car Show Support local police and firefighters at this inaugural event. Hosted by the Armed Forces History Museum in Largo, visitors can vote, sample chili dishes and check out classic cars. Tickets: $20 adults and $15 youth. www. armedforcesmuseum.com

Sept. 20, various times Daddy Daughter Date Night/Mom Son Messy Madness Daddy Daughter Date Night is 5-8 p.m. at Largo Community Center and includes dinner, dancing and games for $39 per couple ($12 each additional daughter). Mom Son Messy Madness is 6-8 p.m. at Highland Recreation Complex and features dinner, dessert and messy games for $25 per couple ($8 each additional son). www. largoevents.com www.highlandrecreation.com

Sept. 20, 7-11 p.m. Butterfly Glow Walk, 5K Fun Run and AfterParty Sign up for this charity walk and support My Hope Chest’s mission at this inaugural event at Pass-A-Grille Beach. Proceeds help raise funds for the breast reconstruction program for breast cancer survivors. Registration: $45 ($250 fundraising goal). Go online to register and/or support participants. www.myhopechest.org

Sept. 27, 6 p.m. Annual Gala for Largo Cultural Center Enjoy cocktails, a full-course dinner, dancing and silent auctions at this benefit for the center’s arts education program. This year’s theme: Dream Makers. Tickets: $125. www.largoarts.com

Sept. 27-28, various times Annual Tangerine Blues Fest Support a good cause while listening to blues Saturday and country Sunday, with food and beverage available for purchase, at this festival at The Tangerine Greenway in Gulfport. Free entry (portion of proceeds to benefit All Children’s Hospital). www.tangerinebluesfest.com

IKEA Tampa

Kids’ Academy

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When school is out, get in on the fun at the IKEA Tampa Kids’ Academy! Featuring FREE activities, FREE meal and FREE IKEA Tampa Kids’ Academy t-shirt for kids under 12 years old who attend.* Kids can join each activity any time between 11-12pm or 5:30-6:30pm.

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Sun. September 14 • 2 pm Tues., September 16 • 10:30 am Wed., September 17 • 10:30 am

September 1, 2014

Keep your school supplies organized by personalizing an IKEA GLIS box.

October 20, 2014

Dress up an IKEA UPPTÄCKA tote bag to collect your Halloween goodies.

November 11, 2014

Construct a patriotic windsock, complete with stars and stripes.

November 24, 2014

Join us in the mattress studio (2nd Floor) for Story Time and get sneak peek of this year’s soft toys. Also, all attendees will be entered into a drawing to win one of this years’ toys!

November 25, 2014

Being thankful allows you to grow! Share what you are thankful for while constructing your very own “tree of thanks”.

November 26, 2014

Use your hand print to make a festive turkey decoration.

For more information, please visit IKEA-USA.com/Tampa or call 888-888-4532 1103 North 22nd Street | Tampa, FL 33605

(813) 922-8167 • CarrollwoodCenter.org

*Meal, activity and t-shirt offer valid for children under 12 years old, while supplies last. No adult purchase necessary. Choose from 3 combo meals that are available from 11 am to 8 pm. One meal per child; dine-in only. All children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. No groups please. One t-shirt per child, per 12 month period. Child must be present to get t-shirt and is encouraged to wear it at all IKEA Tampa Kids’ Academy events.

PATEL CONSERVATORY

@STRAZ CENTER

DREAM

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DANCE • THEATER • MUSIC patelconservatory.org • 813.222.1002

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OF INSPIRATION

north pinellas oldsmar | clearwater | dunedin palm harbor | safety harbor East Lake | tarpon springs Photo by Andi Diamond Photography

Twin Artists Enhance Dolphin Trail When the Dunedin Fine Art Center (DFAC) was asked to oversee the call for artists for the newest additions to the Dolphin Trail, little did they realize that they would be working with such a diverse group of artists, including some of the center’s youngest. This year, DFAC’s acclaimed youth programs hosted over 1,700 young artists during its Summer Art Academy. Though the DFAC nurtures the talents of so many young creative individuals, calls for commissions are usually left to more seasoned artists. This made it quite the surprise when among the more than one dozen proposals received for the Trail’s newest three dolphin installation funded by Advantus Leisure Management Services, there were proposals from Addison & Ella Engle, twin 9-year-old artists. “I was thrilled. It takes a lot of courage for 9-year-olds to jump into a commission like this,” says Ken Hannon, associate executive director and communications director for the DFAC. “With the strength of DFAC’s youth programs, we thought it appropriate to offer them one of the commissions.” DFAC has paired the twins with experienced artist Christine Renc-Carter to see them through some of the technical challenges. The remaining two commissions went to area artists Demeree Barth and M’rissa Rosenthal. Their designs will focus more on Dunedin’s natural beauty. The completed dolphins will be installed by the city of Dunedin, the third partner in this Dunedin Dolphin Trail project and will extend the Dolphin Trail into beautiful Dunedin. Visit www.dfac.org for more about this and other DFAC news and events.

Swim, Bike, run for Freedom at Y The Greater Palm Harbor Y will host its seventh annual Kids’ Triathlon — Swim, Bike, Run for Freedom on Sept. 7. The Greater Palm Harbor Y partners with the Palm Harbor Tri-Warriors Triathlon club to stage the event and introduce kids to triathlons. The USAT-sanctioned event, sponsored by The Heart & Vascular Institute of Florida, begins at 7 a.m. and offers children ages 5-15 the opportunity to become a triathlete for the day at this event dedicated to the men and women serving in the U.S. military. Last year, more than 160 kids participated. The Greater Palm Harbor Y will set up a safe course for participants and offer the following distances at this year’s event: Ages 5-6, 25 yard swim, 1 mile bike and 1/4 mile run Ages 7-10, 100 yard swim, 2 mile bike and 1/2 mile run Ages 11-15, 200 yard swim, 4 mile bike and 1 mile run Fees to participate are $25 for Y members (pre-race) and $35 for nonmembers and participants day of race. Participants also must pay a required $5 fee for annual USAT membership (or show proof of existing USAT membership). For more information, visit the Y online at www.ymcasuncoast.org or contact Randy Nilsson at 727-787-9622 or by email at rnilsson@ymcasuncoast.org.

TAMPA BAY PARENTING

• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

dates: Sept. 8, various times Fall I Session at DFAC Flex your creative muscle as a new session of art classes begins for kids, teens and adults at the Dunedin Fine Art Center. Learn about jewelry, painting, photography, pottery and drawing. www.dfac.org.

Sept. 9, 6:30 p.m. Night Owls Storytime Wear your PJs to the Dunedin Public Library as part of the Youth Services Storytime series (includes craft-making). Free (no registration is required). Call 727-298-3080, Ext. 1732.

Sept. 13, 7:30 a.m. Miles for Hope Cycle, Run or Walk for Brain Tumors Choose from several races at this fitness event at Coachman Park in Clearwater. Cycling: $40; 10K and 5K: $30 each; and 1-mile Survivor Tribute Walk: $25. Event includes food, entertainment and rock climbing. Portion of proceeds will benefit All Children’s Hospital. www.milesforhope.org

Sept. 18, 6 p.m. Annual Adult Competition Spelling Bee Support area professionals or sign up for this fundraiser hosted by the Palm Harbor Chamber of Commerce at Palm Harbor University High. Cheer participants or test your spelling skills. Proceeds benefit the chamber’s foundation, which supports area school programs. Tickets: $10 adults, $5 seniors and free students. www. palmharborcc.org

Sept. 20, 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Farmers Market Browse fresh produce, flowers, and healthy food at the gazebo in John Wilson Park in downtown Safety Harbor. Admission is free. www.cityofsafetyharbor.com

Sept. 20, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Truck-N-Play Day Take the kids for a fun day in Safety Harbor City Park with games and hands-on activities. Little ones get a chance to sit behind the wheel and explore trucks and other large vehicles. Free admission. www.cityofsafetyharbor.com

pasco dade city | land o' lakes | new port richey trinity | wesley chapel | zephyrhills

Photo by Amy Pezzicara, Pezz Photo

Students represent uS at Special olympics Congratulations to the Land O’ Lakes High School Gray soccer team! They will represent Team USA at the 2015 Special Olympics World Summer Games. The unified 7-a-side team has trained since January and won a gold medal at the Special Olympics Florida State Games in May at the ESPN Wide World of Sports in Orlando. They will join more than 7,000 Special Olympics athletes from 170 nations to compete for international soccer gold July 25 through Aug. 2 in Los Angeles.

Summer Leadership Institute Builds Life Skills Nineteen students from Pasco County High Schools participated in four days of training at Saint Leo University this summer, where they learned how to promote peace, engage in healthy relationships and develop leadership skills to visualize and create a community where all people are valued, honored and respected. Students tackled issues such as bullying, teen dating violence and sexual assault and learned ways to safely intervene when they see violence in school. The students continued to meet over the summer to deepen their knowledge on these issues and worked toward planning and implementing various community events throughout the year. The institute was facilitated by the Prevention Team at Sunrise of Pasco County Domestic & Sexual Assault Center. If you would like more information about this project or how to get involved and support Sunrise Center, visit www.sunrisepasco.org or contact Terri O’Brien at 352-521-3358.

The Market place Welcomes Shoppers

dates: Sept. 3, 6 - 9 p.m. Wine Walk Wednesday Stroll through The Shops at Wiregrass and visit wine tasting and appetizer sampler stations set up throughout the outdoor shopping mall during this special event presented by Lennar. For a $15 donation (benefiting the Jason Ackerman Foundation), guests 21 and older receive a free souvenir wine tumbler and wine passport. Evening features live entertainment, mini massages and caricature drawings. www.theshopsatwiregrass.com

Sept. 6, various times Kids’ Fishing Festival Learn about fishing and how to cast a rod as part of this special kids’ fishing tournament at Sims Park in downtown New Port Richey (hosted by James P. Gills Family Y). Registered anglers must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Cost: free for Y scholarship recipients and $10 for others. www.suncoastymca.org

Sept. 6 and 20, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Fresh Market at Wiregrass Meet 50-plus vendors at this outdoor market in Wesley Chapel. Shop for local, certified, organic, hydroponic and conventional produce, Florida grown plants, herbs and flowers, organic food and supplies and homemade foods. www. shopsatwiregrass.com

Sept. 11, 6:30 a.m. Annual Run to Remember This 5K run and 1-mile walk (hosted by the Hernando County Y in Spring Hill) are free and open to the public. Run is a timed event with prizes awarded to first, second and third place finishers. www.suncoastymca.org

Sept. 13, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Starting this month, area residents can come out to Hibiscus Park (in front of the Dade City Garden Club) for a relaxing, outdoor shopping experience. The Market Place will be open the first Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shoppers can browse locally grown produce, plants, garden accessories, home décor, furniture, arts and crafts, jewelry, soaps, jams and more.

Tampa Bay Birth, Breastfeeding and Beyond’s Natural Family Show Learn about natural birth, homebirth, breastfeeding and more at this event at Peace Hall in New Port Richey’s Sims Park. Meet doulas and midwives, see demos and chat with vendors. Free admission. Call 727-642-1843.

The event is free and sponsored by the Dade City Youth Council. If you are interested in becoming a vendor, contact Lucy Avila at 352-521-5858 or by email at lucyavila707@ gmail.com. The vendor fee is $20 for a 12 x 12 space.

Sept. 20, 8 a.m.

TAMPA BAY PARENTING

• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

Annual Coastal Clean Up! Help clean up area waterways, roads, schools, parks and other areas as part of this community event. Pick up supplies at SunTrust Bank. Free lunch and prizes available for volunteers. Register at http://pasco.ifas.ufl.edu/fcs or call 813-929-2725 (weekdays only).

September 11th & 12th, Ruth Eckerd Hall

Join us for one of the largest Florida Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Conferences this year!

Featured Speakers: Alex Sink

Megan Smith

Kim Nelson

Angela Ardolino

Former FL CFO Florida Next Foundation

Publisher Cake & Whiskey Magazine

Shark Tank Winner Daisy Cakes

Founder Tampa Bay Parenting

Thank you to our sponsors: Use code: TBPARENTING to save 10% on tickets! Register at: workingwomenconference.com

polk auburndale | bartow | haines city lakeland | lake wales | winter haven

Willowbrook Brings FootGolf Willowbrook Golf Course – managed by Billy Casper Golf (BCG), the largest owneroperator of golf courses, country clubs and resorts in the U.S. – launched FootGolf, a hybrid of golf and soccer, earlier last month. Willowbrook is set up for 18 holes of FootGolf and is among the first in Central Florida to feature this exciting and unique sport, one that is attracting a much younger audience including the addition of families to the links. Each hole is assigned a “par” and players tee off using a soccer ball, strategically kicking it until they make it in the 21-inch cup. The holes are cut into the rough to protect conditions of fairways and greens, and to avoid affecting everyday golfers. The American FootGolf League provides a rule book for players to follow. “We see an exciting opportunity to attract a new demographic, no matter the skill or age of players,” says Joe Koly, General Manager of Willowbrook Golf Course. FootGolf at Willowbrook is available Monday through Friday after noon and on weekends after 10 a.m. Eighteen holes is $12 to walk and $20 with a cart; juniors (16 and under) can play for $7. Soccer balls are available to rent for $5. To learn more, go to www.golfwillowbrooknow.com or call 863-291-5899.

Kindergarten Learn to Swim program a Success Polk County Public Schools’ Kindergarten Learn to Swim Program experienced its biggest year yet with more than 1,470 students participating from 16 Lakeland area elementary schools. The success is significant when considering the program began in 2010 with about 250 students participating from three elementary schools. The Kindergarten Learn to Swim Program teaches kindergarten students the basics of swimming as well as emphasizes the importance of swim safety education to the children and their family members. The Lakeland Rotary Club recently sent a flood of support to the Kindergarten Learn to Swim Program. The club’s generous donation of $70,000 was instrumental in helping to increase the number of schools participating in the program and is expected to help sustain the program for the next five years. The club raised the donation through the proceeds of its annual Child of the Sun Music Festival. “The Lakeland Rotary has provided us with an incredible opportunity to touch the lives of so many children and families here in our district,” says Kathleen Wright, physical education specialist for the Polk County School District. “The financial support not only allows us to double the number of students we touch with the program, but provides sustainability and a foundation for which we can hopefully expand the program to all of our elementary schools.” The Kindergarten Learn to Swim Program is a joint effort between Polk County Public Schools and the YMCA of West Central Florida. Students attend lessons for one week about 45 minutes each day. Eighty-nine percent of all the students who completed the program achieved a level of at least basic swimming skills.

dates: Sept. 8 - oct. 30, various times Passport to Exotic Adventures Photography Exhibit Check out this latest exhibit at the Polk State College Lake Wales Arts Center when it debuts this month. A special free reception will be held 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11 in the Michael Crews Gallery. www.lakewalesartscouncil.org

Sept. 13, 7:30 p.m. Live at the Gardens! Summer Music Series Enjoy an evening of music as part of this special summer concert series held inside the Visitor Center at Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales. Individual concert tickets are $18 members ($20 non-members). Guests can include a dinner option for an additional $20. www.boktowergardens.org

Sept. 19, 6 - 8:30 p.m. “Future Retro” Reception Attend the reception for a new exhibition at Polk Museum of Art, Future Retro: Drawings from the Great Age of the American Automobile, featuring more than 100 drawings from the Frederick A. Sharf collection of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. Reception is free for members and $10 for guests. www.polkmuseumofart.org

Sept. 19 - 28, various times Princess Whatsername See a production of a delightful story about a girl sleeping alone in the Misty Forest and the many fairy tale characters she meets on her journey out of the forest in this children’s theater production at Lake Wales Little Theatre. Tickets are $10 adults and $7 for ages 18 and younger. www.lwlt.org

Sept. 26, 6 p.m. Stepping Out for Education Show your support for local celebrity dancers paired with professional dance partners in this fundraiser at The Lakeland Center. The dance competition also features dinner and dance with proceeds raised to benefit the programs of the Polk Education Foundation. For ticket info and details, go to www.lakelandchamber.com.

Sept. 27, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. 4th Saturday Market Downtown Winter Haven Browse goods at this pet-friendly community event in downtown Winter Haven across from the Public Library and featuring food trucks, antiques, artists, crafters and vendors of various foods. Free admission. 863-258-3561

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TAMPA BAY PARENTING

• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

to see more photos visit facebook.com/tampabayparentingmagazine

Around Town

To see more photos, visit: TBParenting.com/facebook

Thousands lined up get into the bay area’s largest school event, the Back to School Fair. Pictured is Mosaic’s Mobile Museum and Verizons’ Indy Car.

Panera Bread’s Annual Lemon-Aid Fundraiser benefitting Knead for Knowledge - Vikki Kaiser, Ashley Ward, Matthew Shulstad, Alex Iglesias and Deven Shulstad.

Cryo-Cell International Information Session for Parents - Will Nall, Katie Persons and Valeria Arcila.

Woodmont Charter School Open House - Principal Steve Epstein, Board Chair Rod Jurado and Assistant Principal Latasha Scurry.

Florida Hospital Check Presentation to the Museum of Science and Industry - President and CEO of MOSI Wit Ostrenko, VP of Marketing for Florida Hospital West Region Lauren Key and President and CEO of Florida Hospital West Region, Mike Schultz.

Dairy Council of Florida was at the Back to School Fair helping kids learn how to Fuel Up to Play 60 - Lori Nelson, Vanessa Hodak, Captain Fear, Amanda Hayman and Kayleigh Pratt.

St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Safety Store provided fairgoers safety tips and equipment like helmets and life jackets.

Angela Ardolino with John Partain of Verizon Wireless, David Estevez and Rebecca Gonzalez having fun at Verizon Wireless Booth.

Dr. Flame and Dr. Lino Vatyslab from MOSI’s Steam Punks provided everyone with a up-close look at some awesome science experiments.

Verizon Wireless invited fairgoers into an interactive classroom complete with workshops for kids to get hands on with the newest back to school technology.

Tampa Bay Federal Credit Union brought a fun photo booth for families to take goofy photos. Pictured is the Wiltens Family.

Curtis from Whole Foods S. Tampa whipped up yummy, healthy smoothies to help get kids powered up for the new school year.

september Events

old McMicky's Farm BoGo

Through Sept. 15, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Purchase an adult admission and get half off a child admission as part of this back-to-school special. Touch, see and experience farm animals up close. Guests also can take a hayride, explore a barn maze and milk a cow. www.oldmcmickys.com

Everyone

Target Tuesday

Sept. 2, 2-7 p.m. Take advantage of an admission special for kids and adults during designated hours. Cross paths with fun guest characters at 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. This month, meet up with Daniel Tiger. Adults must be accompanied by a child and vice versa. www. glazermuseum.org Everyone

KidsFit playground

Sept. 2, 2-6 p.m. Come out to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in downtown Tampa and prep the kids for an afternoon of fun and fitness with a variety of sports-related activities. www.fitkidsplayground. com Everyone

e v e n t s & f e s t i va l s Annual Columbia restaurant Community Harvest

All Month Dine at the Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City, the Tampa Bay History Center and Tampa International Airport this month and 5 percent of your check for lunch or dinner will be donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters. www.bbbsfl.org Everyone

Hi-Chew Kids Night

Wednesdays All Month Take in a Tampa Yankees home game and kids 14 and younger receive a coupon for a free scooter dog, cracker jacks and a small soda with the purchase of a reserved ticket ($5). After the game, kids can run the bases. www.steinbrennerfield. com Everyone

Friends and Family Night at Steinbrenner Field

Saturdays All Month A family of four can enjoy reserved seats at a Tampa Yankees home game and get four hot dogs, chips and sodas as well as four Tampa Yankees caps and two passes to Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo www.streinbrennerfield.com Everyone

Spirited: prohibition in america Opens Sept. 1, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Check out the latest exhibition at the Tampa Bay History Center, which brings visitors back to a time of flappers and suffragists, bootleggers and temperance lobbyists and legends like Al Capone. www.tampabayhistorcenter.com Everyone

TAMPA BAY PARENTING

FArA Energy Ball

Sept. 6, 5:30 p.m. Wear your finest duds to this special annual fundraiser at the A La Carte Event Pavilion in Tampa. Event benefits research of Friedreich’s Ataxia, a rare debilitating neuromuscular disorder. Night includes cocktail reception, seated dinner and live and silent auctions. www.curefa.org/ energyball Moms & Dads

2014 progressive Insurance Boat Show

Sept. 5-7, various times See a showcase of the newest boats and accessories at this official kickoff of the fall Florida boating season at the Tampa Convention Center. Admission: $12 16 and older and free for 15 and younger (when accompanied by an adult). www. tampaboatshow.com Everyone

Jane Goodall at the uSF Sun Dome

Sept. 9, 7 p.m. Hear the acclaimed scientist and conservationist discuss her experiences and love for nature and botany. Free for current USF students. Tickets: $20-$77.25 at the box office. www.sundomearena. com Everyone

Working Women State Conference

Sept. 11-12, various times Held at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater, the conference features a vendor expo, guest speakers and the opportunity to network with 300 female entrepreneurs and executives. This year’s speakers include Angela Ardolino, publisher of Tampa Bay Parenting. Tickets: $130-$160. www. workingwomenconference.com Moms

• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

Tampa Bay Wine and Food Festival

Sept. 12-13, various times Drink delectable wines and sample scrumptious nibbles from an international array of foods at the Straz in downtown Tampa. Attend the Southern Charm Gala and Auction Sept. 12 and the Grand Tasting on Sept. 13. Proceeds benefit Brandon Foundation and other local charities. Tickets from $75. www.tampabaywineandfood.com Moms &

Dads

Back to football

Sept. 13, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. The Glazer Children’s Museum is celebrating the start of football season. Wear your favorite jersey and enjoy a sports-themed day of fun and learning. www.glazermuseum.org Everyone

Monty python and The Holy Grape, Tampa Theatre Winefest

Sept. 12-14, various times Sip from an array of delicious wines as part of this annual three-day fundraiser at Tampa Theatre. This year’s theme is Monty Python. Weekend kicks off with two-tiered wine tasting on Sept. 12, a wine pairing Sept. 13. and wine brunch Sept. 14. www. tampatheatrewinefest.org Moms & Dads

Jack Hanna at Busch Gardens Tampa

Sept. 13-14, various times Join “Jungle Jack” Hanna for a day of wild animal shows, autograph signings and meet and greets when he visits Busch Gardens Tampa. Included with a day’s paid admission or annual pass. Guests also can purchase tickets to a separate event, Jack Hanna Family Fun Sleepover on Sept. 13. Registration is required. Call 1-877-248-2267. www. buschgardens.com/tampa Everyone

Carnaval de Animales

Sept. 14, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Stop by Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo for this debut event showcasing the captivating animals of the Caribbean, Central America and South America. Event will feature character appearances by Dora the Explorer and Diego, live music and food. Included with zoo admission. www.lowryparkzoo. com Everyone

Ladies Night out: Fighting Cervical Cancer

Sept. 17, 6-8 p.m. Bring your friends for an informative night on prevention and treatment options (hosted by St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital). Event is free but registration required. Call 855-269-4777 to register.

Moms

Fashion Week Tampa Bay

Sept. 17-20, various times Celebrate the bay’s fashion trends and talented designers with a packed schedule of fashion events, workshops and runway shows. Proceeds go to designated local charities (to be announced). www.fashionweektampabay.com Everyone

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

Kids' Night out: Kitchen Chemists

Sept. 19, 6-10 p.m. Kids get to conduct cool experiments, explore the museum’s exhibits at night, play video games and make new friends as part of this special monthly event at MOSI in Tampa. Cost: $25 per child with one-week advance registration required. www. mosi.org 5 & Older

Tired of looking tired

Sept. 18, 6-8 p.m. Learn about safe and proven treatments and surgeries to rejuvenate your look and eliminate festoons and lower eyelid bags at this free seminar hosted by Dr. Adam J. Scheiner at his Tampa office. Dr. Scheiner will introduce Platelet Rich Plasma Facial Rejuvenation and how harnessing its healing power can leave patients’ faces looking refreshed. www.adamscheinermd.com. Moms & Dads

Macys Kid couture fashion workshops

Sept. 20, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Bring your littlest fashionistas and aspiring designers to Glazer Children’s Museum for a special event in conjunction with Tampa Bay Fashion Week. Kids can explore what goes into creating clothing and accessories as part of workshops presented by Macy’s. www. glazermuseum.org 5-15

Howl-o-Scream

Sept. 26-Nov. 1, various times Come out for this yearly Halloween fright fest at Busch Gardens Tampa. Meet up with terrifying roaming creatures, check out a chilling live show and take the park’s thrill rides in the dark. Admission is $47. Mature audiences only. www.howloscream.com Teens, Moms

& Dads

Annual Thin Mint Sprint and Tagalong Trot

Sept. 27, 8 a.m. Show your support for the Girl Scouts of West Central Florida at this 5K and 1-mile event to promote healthy living to start and end at Safety Harbor Marina. Registration is $30 for 5K Sprint and $20 for 1-mile Trot. Proceeds benefit the GSWCF’s various member programs. www.gswcf.org Everyone

Imagination Gala

Sept. 27,6:30 p.m. Save the date for this annual fundraiser to benefit the Glazer Children’s Museum at T. Pepin’s Hospitality Center. This year’s theme is The Road to Emerald City and celebrates the museum’s upcoming traveling exhibit about The Wizard of Oz. Evening includes a cocktail reception, silent and live auctions, dinner and dancing. www.glazermuseum.org Moms & Dads

Woofstock

Sept. 20, 4-7 p.m. Plan for a groovy day of peace, love and puppy dogs as part of this fundraiser at Hyde Park Village in Tampa. Hear live music from Eccentric. Proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Tampa. Cost is $15 donation (includes event t-shirt, beverage and drawing ticket). www.humanesocietytampa.org

Everyone

World rhino Day

Sept. 20-21, 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo presents a rhino-sized weekend of discovery. Visit the Indian and African white rhino exhibits to learn more about these endangered animals and enjoy educational activities. Included with zoo admission. www. lowryparkzoo.com Everyone

4th Annual Birthday Bash

Sept. 21, 1-6 p.m. Celebrate the Glazer Children’s Museum’s birthday with games and activities all day long. Admission is free. www.glazermuseum.com Everyone

Fishing for Hearts

Sept. 25-26, various times Sign up for this fishing tournament to benefit families served by Ronald McDonald House and Athletes for Hearts in St. Pete. Weekend includes a Captain and Angler Social at RumFish Grill and Inshore Photo Release Tournament at the nearby marina. Awards go to first and second place anglers and captains. www.rmhctampabay.com

Moms & Dads

spECIAL NEEDS

Sponsored by Early Autism Project www.EAPTampa.com

National recovery Month with the rays and the Wiggles

Sept. 7, 1:40 p.m. Come out for a special discounted baseball game and stay for a concert by The Wiggles. BayCare Behavioral Health and the Tampa Bay Rays host as the Rays take on the Baltimore Orioles. Arrive early to catch pregame ceremonies in honor of National Recovery Month. Get discounted lower outfield tickets for $15 at www. raysbaseball.com/nationalrecoverymonth and enter pass code NRM2. Everyone

september Events

Free Home School Social Skills Group

Sept. 8, 15, 22 and 29, 11 a.m. - noon Homeschooled students in grades 2-5 can take part in this free, interactive weekly social skills group offered by Hammond Psychology. Sign up at www. hammondpsychology.com or call the office at 813-5673253. 7-10

Sunshine Sunday

Sept. 28, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Spend the morning exploring the Glazer Children’s Museum in downtown Tampa, with lights and sounds lowered and special programming for those with special needs and their families. Advance registration suggested. Cost is $5 per person and free for members. www.glazermuseum.org/sunshinesunday Everyone

t h e at e r & d a n c e The Last Night of Ballyhoo

film

a r t My Generation: Young Chinese Artists

Through Sept. 28, various times See an eclectic mix of artwork from a new generation of mainland China artists at the Museum of Fine Art in St. Petersburg. Media includes video, photography, painting and mixed media. www.fine-arts.org Everyone

First Fridays Seminole Heights

Sept. 5, 6-10 p.m. Stroll the art galleries in and around Seminole Heights on the first Friday of every month for this community art event. For gallery addresses and details, visit the event Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ffseminoleheights. Everyone

Fall 2014 Exhibitions at DFAC

Opens Sept. 12 Spend an evening exploring five galleries of art with the launch of fall 2014 exhibitions at the Dunedin Fine Art Center. From Plants Illustrated and Lost Worlds showcasing landscapes to Living Matters, Land of the Lost and Homegrown II, guests can wander through a diverse selection of art. Plus, on Sept. 13 you may bring the kids for DFAC’s Kids’ Art Fest. www.dfac.org

Everyone

Annual Eat rich, Play Dirty

Sept. 20, 7-10 p.m. Stimulate the senses with art, music, food and drink at this fundraiser at the Morean Center for Clay in St. Petersburg to benefit the Center’s arts programs. Get hands-on and have some creative fun. Tickets: $100. www.moreanartscenter.org Moms & Dads

TAMPA BAY PARENTING

70s Movie Series Double Features

Sept. 6, 19 and 27, 7 p.m. Double your movie pleasure as Clearwater’s Capitol Theatre pairs up movie classics for a fun, affordable themed night at the movies. For just $7, catch the likes of Close Encounters & Alien (Sept. 6), Grease & American Graffiti (Sept. 19) and Rocky & Rocky II (Sept. 27). www.atthecap.com 8 & Older

Sabrina — Secrets of a Teenage Witch: A Witch and the Werewolf

Available Sept. 9 Watch Ashley Tisdale make magic in her Daytime Emmy-nominated role as TVs favorite teenage witch in this movie adventure based on the character arriving on DVD this month. 8 & Older

Sept. 3-28, various times As Gone with the Wind prepares to premiere and Hitler is marching on Poland, a Jewish family prepares for a lavish cotillion ball in this latest production of the Tony Award-winning play at the Shimberg Playhouse at the Straz. Tickets: $28. www.jobsitetheater.org 10 & Older

American Stage presents The Chosen

Sept. 5-28, various times Catch this production adapted from the best-selling novel about two Jewish boys growing up five blocks away but worlds apart when American Stage showcases this season-opener. www.americanstage. org Moms & Dads

Choo Choo Soul

Sept. 21, 2 p.m. Kids can hop aboard for singing, dancing and clapping when this train fueled by hip hop music arrives in the Straz’s Ferguson Hall. Sing along with conductor Genevieve and her deejay DC. Tickets: $25. www. strazcenter.org 5-8

Dolphin Tale 2

Opens Sept. 12 Continue falling in love with the story of Winter the dolphin as the sequel about our nearby Clearwater Marine Aquarium celebrity hits theaters this month. Rated PG. Running time: 113 minutes. 8 & Older

Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead 2

Sept. 18, 7:30 p.m. Get an enlightening look at how to stay healthy in an unhealthy world as the highly anticipated follow up to the award-winning documentary “Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead” makes its theatrical debut as part of this special one-night only engagement in select theaters, including locations in Brandon, Lakeland, Oldsmar, Pinellas Park, Sarasota and Tampa. Not rated. Running time: 105 minutes. www.fathomevents.com Moms & Dads

• SEPT 2014 • TBParenting.com

music & comedy C.S. Lewis' The Great Divorce

Sept. 26-27, various times Take a celestial journey from Hell to Paradise in this hilarious adaptation of the C.S. Lewis work at the Straz. Performance includes after show talkback about the play with Max McLean. Tickets from $42.50. www. strazcenter.org 13 & Older

Steve Martin and Martin Short in a very Stupid Conversation Sept. 7, 7 p.m. Have a good laugh and see two comedic icons join forces for a night of comedy, singing, banter and banjo presented in a Q&A format at Mahaffey Theater in downtown St. Petersburg. Tickets from $89. www. themahaffey.com Moms & Dads

Rewind Tour 2014: rascal Flatts with Sheryl Crow and Gloriana

Sept. 12, 7:30 p.m. Sing along with the country chart-toppers when their tour comes to Tampa and the MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre. Tickets from $29.75. www. livenation.com

12 & Older

Tom petty and the Heartbreakers

Sept. 21, 7:30 p.m. See a music legend and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee take the stage at the Tampa Bay Times Forum. Petty will perform songs from his latest album as well as his rock classics. Tickets from $32.75. www. tampabaytimesforum.com 12 & Older

Luke Bryan

Sept. 25-26, 7 p.m. Dance and drool from your seats as this country rocker and heartthrob visits the MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre at the Florida State Fairgrounds. Bryan brings his Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s My Kind of Night Tour to Tampa along with special guests Lee Brice and Cole Swindell. Tickets: $29.50-$59.25. www.livenation.com 12 & Older

Sept. 17-20, 2014,

with a pre-Fashion Week event at International Plaza on Sept. 12

Student Designer Showcase

Sponsors:

For tickets, schedule and more information, visit: FashionWeekTampaBay.com

#TBFW #FWTB #TBFASHIONWEEK