September 2023

FIND YOUR VILLAGE AT CORBETT PREP:

Not just a school, a community

BABY REGISTRY MUST-HAVES: Our Top Picks of What's NEW and stuff to love now

HALLOWEEN AT THE THEME PARKS: The Party starts this month!

ADORABLE WAYS TO STORE AND DISPLAY YOUR CHILD'S ART

FOR LOCAL FAMILIES. BY LOCAL FAMILIES.

Health care just for kids.

(Parents like us a lot too.)

BayCare Kids is trusted by more parents in Tampa Bay than any other health system. BayCare Kids is committed to keeping children healthy so they can become healthy adults, and we’ve got an entire network dedicated to the unique medical needs of kids. Whether it’s small scrapes, broken bones or something more serious, our experienced doctors, extraordinary nurses and team members, convenient locations and variety of services, ensures the best health care for your child. The BayCare Kids network includes our flagship hospital, St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, which provides comprehensive, highly specialized care for kids with complex conditions like congenital heart defects and cancer. Kids grow up fast. We’re here to help them grow up healthy, too. Learn more: BayCareKids.org

CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND EDITORIAL MANAGER

Laura Byrne

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Anu Varma Panchal

Brie Gorecki

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Sarah Rigby

OPERATIONS ASSISTANT

Zoe Joiner

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Laura Byrne

Brie Gorecki

Sarah Rigby

Jenny P.

Anu Varma Panchal

Gabriela Flores

Alexis Yahre

Laura Cross

Karimah Henry

Kiran Malik-Khan

Maggie Rodriguez

Tara Payor, Ph.D.

Julie Tingley

Ellen McVay

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Ralf Gonzalez

Jim Byrne

LAYOUT & DESIGN

Jennifer Dufek

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Laura Byrne

Thats4Entertainment

Karimah Henry

Sarah Jin

Jen Naugle Photography

BOOKKEEPING

James Anderson

TAMPA BAY

PARENTING MAGAZINE

320 W. Kennedy Blvd. Ste. 220 Tampa, Florida 33606 Phone 813-949-4400 Fax 813-315-6688 info@tbparenting.com editor@tbparenting.com

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Articles

10 // Halloween at the Theme Parks: Take a peek at some ghoulishly good ways to start celebrating the holiday early

13 // INSIDE LOOK : Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND Florida kicks off this month

14 // MOSI: A NEW, Fresh Experience for Tampa Bay Parents

18 // COVER STORY: Finding Your Village at Corbett Prep: The Christoff family shares their experience with building a community at school

21 // Root for the Home Team: Tampa Bay pro teams to watch this month

22 // Keeping it Cool in School: Hillsborough County Public Schools shares an update on new air-conditioners going into local schools

23 // United for Student Success: How parents and teachers unite to help students’ overall academic success

24 // 5 Storage Solutions for Adorable Artwork: Karimah Henry of Crafting a Fun Life shares her favorite ways to display and save children’s masterpieces

26 // Fall into Healthy Habits at the YMCA: Explore all of the benefits of a YMCA membership including free classes, activities and more

29 // EverMom is for Every Mom: Maggie Rodriguez introduces two St. Pete area moms who launched EverMom to connect moms in all seasons of motherhood

30 // Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Tampa Bay : Get to know two Tampa Bay area moms as they share their Hispanic heritage and roots

36 // Baby Registry Top Picks: Our director of operations is having a baby, and she’s sharing some top picks for first time parents or those growing their families

41 // The Top 10 Difference: Learn why Tampa General Hospital ranks in the top 10 in the nation in Obstetrics and Gynecology

42 // Have a Safe September: We’re learning top tips from BayCare Kids safety expert, Michelle Sterling

45 // Friends Forever: Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital shares the heartwarming story of two friends who found each other while battling acute myeloid leukemia

Every Issue:

6 // Noteworthy: What’s new and notable

9 // September Top Picks: Our favorite events and things to do with the kids this month

32 // Moms to Know: Meet author Dominique Richardson, ahead of her upcoming book festival YA By the Bay

35 // Kids to Know: In honor of National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, we get to know Emersyn Southwick, a remarkable 7-year-old confronting medulloblastoma

46 // What’s Trending on TampaBayParenting.com: See what’s going on between the issues on our digital platforms

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

ON THE COVER:

A school isn't always just a school. For many families, it becomes a second home. For the Christoff family of Tampa, it was a place where they found their people and their village, after a job transfer brought them to Tampa Bay. Turn to page 18 to read more about how Corbett Prep has changed their lives.

NOTEWORTHY september

Slither on into Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center

Check out the new exhibit, Snakes of the Essstuary, to explore the fascinating world of Tampa Bay’s native snakes, shedding light on their unique characteristics, ecological roles and the challenges they face. Visitors will meet Jack, the mimicry master scarlet king snake; Salazar Slytherin, the Florida banded water snake that’s often mistaken for its venomous cousin; and Rex, the vibrantly hued red corn snake. Included in general admission. tbwdiscoverycenter.org

Minecraft Mania is Back at MOSI!

Put those Minecraft mining skills you’ve learned to the test in MOSI’s Minecraft Mania! You’ll get a chance to play on individual, small-team and fullteam challenges as you work on perfecting your mining strategies, enchanting your tools and armor, defending a city from an alien attack or even learning some basic coding! mosi.org

UNLEASH YOUR INNER ARTIST!

The Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts Fall Classes

The Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts at Ruth Eckerd Hall announces their arts education classes for the fall semester. Students can learn new skills, make friends and grow as artists with the help of the Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts. A wide variety of music, theater and art classes will be offered to students starting from Sept. 9 through Dec. 10. Class registration is now open. hoffmanschoolofthearts.org

Tampa Museum of Art Fall Studio Programs

Experience engaging small classes taught by professional teaching artists in the Tampa Bay Community through Nov. 19. The museum offers studio art courses and workshops located throughout Hillsborough County inspired by the museum’s permanent collection and visiting exhibitions. Kids and families, teens and adults can participate in a variety of classes exploring multiple artistic mediums. Fall courses are registering now–secure your spot today! tampamuseum.org/studio23

Parents’ Night Out Idea: Oktoberfest

Looking for a day date or night out with your significant other? Call the babysitter and get ready to say “probst!” There are tons of awesome Oktoberfest events going on around Tampa Bay this month filled with live entertainment, German beer, food and more. Some even have family-friendly activities in case you decide to have the kids tag along. Scan the QR code to check out all the Oktoberfest events on Tampa Bay Date Night Guide.

Get a Glimpse Into the World of Tampa Bay Fashion

Don’t miss the inaugural Tampa Bay Fashion Experience hosted by CEO and founder Taneka Bowles, wife of Tampa Bay Buccaneers Head Coach, Todd Bowles. This three-day experience takes place Sept. 6-8 and features exclusive parties, fashion shows, redcarpet treatment and a sneak peek at fall trends.Proceeds will benefit CAN Community Health and Autism Speaks. Visit tampabayfashionexperience.com for tickets and to learn more.

Tampa Bay Brewing Company

Saturdays and Sundays, Sept. 9-Oct. 29 and Monday, Oct. 30, and Tuesday, Oct. 31

family-friendly halloween event

At Busch Gardens’ Spooktacular, guests will step into a whimsical world full of enchantment with Kandy, a witch-in-training! A costume parade, story time and trick or treating are some of the activities guests will find in this immersive Halloween experience. Busch Gardens’ Spooktacular will be casting magical spells from 12 – 4 PM at the Festival Walkway.

BUSCHGARDENSTAMPA.COM

september Top Picks

Our favorite family-friendly events in Tampa Bay

Spooktacular at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Family-Friendly Halloween Event

SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS, SEPT. 9-OCT. 29, MONDAY, OCT. 30, AND

TUESDAY, OCT. 31

At Busch Gardens’ Spooktacular, guests will step into a whimsical world full of enchantment with Kandy, a witch-in-training! A costume parade, storytime and trick or treating are some of the activities guests will find in this immersive Halloween experience. Busch Gardens’ Spooktacular will be casting magical spells on Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. at the Festival Walkway. Spooktacular is included with park admission. buschgardens.com/tampa/events/spooktacular

Bucs Beach Bash presented by TradeWinds Island Resorts

SEPT. 8-10

Head to RumFish Resort at St. Pete Beach to party like a pirate! There will be music, drinks, prizes and Kids Zone, appearances by the Bucs Cheerleaders, Bucs Street Team and more! On Sunday, get ready to see the Bucs kick off their season against the Minnesota Vikings with a special watch party on the beach. buccaneers.com/beachbash

90s Con 2023

SEPT. 15-17

Get ready to have a radical time at 90s Con 2023! Taking place at the Tampa Convention Center, 90s Con will include panels and photo ops with 90s fan favorites. Meet cast members from "Full House," "Saved by the Bell," Sabrina the Teenage Witch" and much more! Members of Backstreet Boys, N*Sync and TLC will also be there snapping selfies. Scan the QR code to learn more about this totally awesome event!

Affirming Fatherhood Conference

SEPT. 21-22

Join an intimate group of fathers, father figures, speakers and community partners at Children’s Board of Hillsborough County to dive into the challenges - both mental and physical - that fathers face each day. The two-day event will be highlighted by two special guest speakers who will bring their unique experiences in fatherhood and men’s health to the conference and take a powerful pivot by hosting a smaller group to encourage more one-on-one interaction and team camaraderie building. reachupincorporated.org

Girl Scout Fest

SEPT. 23

Spend a day experiencing everything exciting about Girl Scouting at the annual Girl Scout Fest! Girls of all ages and their families are invited to enjoy interactive activities and events that are cool, fun, science-y, interesting and an incredible amount of fun! Outdoor adventures and indoor badge activities will inspire girls to dream big, explore the world around them, take action in their communities, spark their excitement for STEM learning, and set them on a path toward entrepreneurship and leadership. gswcf.org

WANT MORE? SCAN THE QR CODE FOR WEEKEND TOP PICKS

Glazer Children’s Museum Birthday Bash

SEPT. 30

Celebrate GCM’s 13th birthday at their FREE party in the park! Head to Curtis Hixon Park to celebrate with over 40 local organizations. Enjoy live entertainment, food, drinks and more! glazermuseum.org/birthdaybash

Spooktacular at Busch Gardens

Glazer Children's Museum Birthday Bash

Bucs Beach Bash

90s Con 2023

Girl Scout Fest

photo by Thats4Entertainment

Spooky September Fun for Kids at the Theme Parks

Get the Halloween party started early!

PRO TIPS:

1. If you are attending earlier in the season, consider a breathable costume since it can still be hot and humid, even after the sun goes down.

2. If you want to save time waiting in line for character meet-and-greets, get in the queue during one of the two parades or shows.

3. If you want to ride Tron, it’s by virtual queue only—there will be no stand-by line during the party. A virtual queue for party ticket holders opens at 6 p.m. via the My Disney Experience app, but you’ll want to be punctual; slots go quickly.

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom

Through Nov. 1, select nights

Cost: Special event tickets start at $99 for kids ages 3-9 and $109 for ages 10 and older

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party was the first to kick off the Halloween season by hosting its first party Aug. 11. You can expect returning favorites, including the ‘Boo-to-You Parade,’ live shows featuring the Sanderson sisters from Hocus Pocus and a spellbinding fireworks display. This special event tends to have smaller crowds than a normal day at the park, so ride wait times are far shorter. And, many rides have a Halloween twist like the Mad Tea Party and Space Mountain. Over at The Haunted Mansion, be on the lookout for a few ghosts along the queue, like Madame Carlotta.

What’s NEW in 2023:

• The Seven Dwarfs are back for event-exclusive meet and greets for the first time since 2019. You’ll find them indoors at Storybook Circus.

• New Treats: There are 30 food items, including 22 that are exclusive to the party like Jack and Sally Cake Pops at the Churro Cart near Cinderella’s Castle and Zombie Fingers at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe.

• Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, and Clarabelle Cow are dressed as the Sanderson Sisters from Disney’s “Hocus Pocus” in Mickey’s “BooTo-You” Halloween Parade.

• Chat it up with real pirates outside the Pirates of the Carribean ride in Adventure Land! They’ve been a part of the ride queue and in the ride experience in the past, but this year, they are outside.

4. We went one-on-one with Disney Live Entertainment show director Tara Anderson to get the scoop about the best spots to view the parade and live shows:

• Parade: “There’s really not a bad spot. I like Liberty Square, actually. Sometimes it’s not quite as crowded, but of course Main Street is wonderful.”

• Fireworks and Hocus Pocus Show: “For fireworks, you don’t have to be right up close, you can be a little further back in front of the castle. For the fabulous Hocus Pocus Villain Spectacular, you kinda want to be in the middle of the action; I have to admit it.”

Spooktacular at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. at the Festival Walkway, Sept. 9 through Oct. 29, Monday, Oct. 30 and Tuesday, Oct. 31 Cost: Included with park admission

Spooktacular returns this year after it debuted at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay last year. It’s such a great addition to the park’s Halloween themed offerings. Kids can meet Kandy, the witch-in-training who is still learning her magic. She might even indulge you on her stories of turning her pals into frogs—oops!

If you arrive at noon, you can take part in a short opening ceremony and be among the first to trick-or-treat your way through the event. We recommend bringing your own bag for the candy and prizes.

Once you’ve wrapped up trick-or-treating, be sure to snap some photos at the photo ops and with Kandy and her friends or snuggle up on the bench for a “Room on the Broom” story time. Kids 13 and younger can even take part in the Spooktacular Costume Parade—this is an adorable opportunity to let your children show off their costumes.

PRO TIPS:

1. If you go on a weekend from Sept. 30 through Oct. 29 (along with Monday, Oct. 30 and Tuesday, Oct. 31), you can also experience Sesame Street Safari of Fun’s Halloween activities like a Halloween Dance Party, singalong with Count von Count at the Not-TooSpooky Howl-O-Ween Radio Show and more!

2. It won’t take you too long to get through the Spooktacular event, so try and make some time for an animal experience or simply make a day out of it at the theme park!

3. Purchase an Annual Pass or Fun Card to come back and play all year long! !

SCAN FOR MORE!

We’re brewing even MORE Halloween reviews including how to map out your visit to ZooTampa’s Creatures of the Night which starts the final weekend of September!

Spooktacular at Busch Gardens

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

Eerie family fun

Tampa Bay’s #1 Family Halloween Event

Select Nights Sept. 29 - Oct. 29

Ghouls and goblins of all ages can enjoy howling outdoor experiences, spooky characters, creepy culinary treats, and much more!

ZooTampa Members receive free admission to Creatures of the Night and other seasonal events year round!

Calling All the Monsters to Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND Florida Resort

Time to party like a Monster!

Brick-or-Treat presents Monster Party reemerges at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort once again this fall on select Saturdays and Sundays, Sept. 16 to Oct. 29. Experience all the thrills of the resort’s signature Halloween event with a cast of LEGO® monster characters, ghoulish entertainment and candycoated fun—all included with general park admission and select Annual Passes.

NEW SHOWS

LEGO Lord Vampyre is hosting the best Monster Party yet, and he’s determined to cast a spell to make the night last forever. Add some sweet delight to your night and watch as this magic takes to the sky! The all-new Spellbound fireworks show will mesmerize everyone as it bursts into 3D LEGO bricks right before your eyes. Through dazzling fireworks, energetic music and colorful lights, you’ll surely be left spellbound!

NEW CANDY ZONES

It wouldn’t be Brick-or-Treat if you don’t fall into a candy trance, so ready your souls for a monstrous tidal wave of candy. Brick-or-Treat throughout the entire park’s completely transformed candy zones. Sail through Shipwreck Alley and plunder all the candy ye’ can hoist! Chart yer course to meet Zombie Pirate and claim a bounty of candy from every bewitching corner. Skip through Happy Harvest Trail, visit the Graveyard of Ghouls and wander through Wicked Sweet Way, where creatures rise to the occasion and join the party.

EXCLUSIVE CHARACTERS

While snagging tons of candy, you can also snap a photo with your favorite monsters

at themed meet and greets. Get ready for enchanted encounters with characters like Monster Rocker and the newest Monster Party guest, LEGO Square Foot. This shaggy newcomer spends a lot of time in the wilderness, but he’s taking a break from the deep woods to attend the party of a lifetime.

NEW LIVE SHOW

This year, Monster Party brings an array of new entertainment that’ll make you scream and cheer in excitement. Z-O-M-B-I-E!

What’s that spell? “Zombie!” Get in formation and bring your spirit to the Zombie Pep Rally. Zombie Cheerleader returns with the new and totally undead Zombie Cheer Crew. These zombies might have lost all feeling in their limbs, but they can certainly feel the rhythm of the beat. Let loose with the cheer squad as you enjoy their routine and become a part of the performance.

SPOOKY RIDES

Looking for more monster grooves? BOO-gie aboard The Disco Dragon coaster with a groovy monster soundtrack, décor and an illuminating party atmosphere. Also getting a Halloween makeover, take a spin on the Creepy Carousel and be transported to a realm where eerie meets whimsy—an adventure suitable for all ages!

by Gabriela Flores

DANCE! DANCE! DANCE!

Once you’re ready to get down with some fellow monsters, bring your mystic moves to the V.I.M. (Very Important Monster) Dance Party. Jam out with your favorite LEGO monsters and show off your supernatural dance skills. Courtesy of Monster Rocker and his electrifying music, you can skeleton shuffle and take a selfie with this rockin’ creation. Feast, boogie and savor the hauntingly good times at Brick-or-Treat presents Monster Party at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort.

Disco Dragon

Zombie Cheerleader V.I.M. Dance Party

MOSI: A Fresh Experience for Tampa Bay Parents

by Alexis Yahre, Head of PR at MOSI

The Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) has always been a family favorite for its interactive exhibits and kid-friendly atmosphere. But now, MOSI is stepping up its game to cater to an equally important audience—parents and adults. With a focus on offering more diverse experiences, MOSI has introduced exciting activities and dining options for its adult visitors.

One notable addition is the arrival of Zydeco Brew Werks, a popular NOLAinspired restaurant and bar. Zydeco has made a name for itself in Ybor and is known as one of the top brewpubs in America. The menu features elevated classics like burgers, Cajun fries, smoked fish spread and mouthwatering beignets, all catering to “grown-up” tastes. However, for families with children, Zydeco thoughtfully offers a kids' menu with familiar options like hotdogs, mac and cheese and chicken nuggets. There's also a full bar with an array of beer on tap, wine and ready-to-drink cocktails.

For those looking for a quick and healthy bite, MOSI has teamed up with Chicken Salad Chick to offer convenient grab-andgo options to keep visitors fueled and energized.

Beyond culinary delights, MOSI now boasts the LIVECycles Butterfly Encounter, an intriguing exhibit that allows visitors to learn about the reproductive cycle of butterflies. Guests can step into the shadehouse, surrounded by a garden filled with the favorite plants of these delicate creatures, providing a unique opportunity to observe and understand their life cycle up close.

Equally exciting is the chance to participate in exclusive events for adults, which range from 18 or 21+. These events can be found on a rotating basis through the website calendar and require advance registration. People who buy MOSI memberships receive discounts and other special perks.

One highly anticipated event is the Science of the Cuban Sandwich (SOCS), a friendly restaurant competition offering the chance to sample various sandwiches while delving into the chemistry and physics behind their creation. The event,

set to take place on Saturday, Sept. 16, will also feature live music, drink samples and captivating science demonstrations.

Other popular events at MOSI include Science After Dark, where visitors can explore classic exhibits and enjoy activities like an Occulus Rift Beat Saber station, liquid nitrogen ice cream, light appetizers and libations.

For those seeking creative pursuits, Uncorked Creativity is the place to be. Participants can unwind in a relaxing environment while discovering new artistic skills.

And if you need to find your inner peace, MOSI offers Zen Yoga, a refreshing combination of yoga and science for a day of tranquility and relaxation.

MOSI is committed to adding more events and experiences throughout the year, including seasonal opportunities and one-of-a-kind engagements. For updates, deals and discounts, follow MOSI on social media or sign up for the newsletter available on the website www.mosi.org (found at the bottom of the home page).

Find Your Village at Corbett Prep

by Laura Byrne

Over the past few years, we have welcomed numerous new families to the Tampa Bay area who were seeking the warmth of not just the sun, but of our community too. Diving into a new city can be a tad overwhelming when your quest is not only to find a house, but a home; not just neighbors, but a family. This was the journey of the Christoff family when a job transfer found them trading the hustle of life in Baltimore, Maryland for the sand and sun of Tampa Bay. However, Tampa didn’t quite feel like home until they found Corbett Prep and their village.

Christo, Erika and Sander (1st grade) Christoff

TBPM: There are so many options for families in the Tampa Bay Area. Why did you choose Corbett Prep?

Erika Christoff: My husband got a job transfer to Tampa and we were really nervous. Where are we going to find our people? Where are we going to find our school? We have Sander and we really wanted a school that brought family and community to us, especially not knowing anyone in the Tampa area. I did some research and really liked the Corbett K-8 program. The first time on campus, we just knew this was the place for us.

Everyone was so welcoming and inviting. Christo is from Bulgaria, so we really wanted diversity, and Sander talked to kids whose parents are from other countries. The campus, the indoor/outdoor teaching environment was important to us, and the overall social emotional learning that they do in addition to the academics.

TBPM: Why is diversity so important to you as a parent?

EC: I think mostly because I didn’t grow up like that. I grew up in a very small-town, neighborhood school and so I didn’t really realize there are other families that celebrate other holidays or are from other countries, or [that there were] two languages happening in the house. After college I moved to New York City, and I was like ‘oh my gosh, there’s a whole another world out there!’

My husband really wanted our child to go to a school where Sander wouldn’t feel odd or different because daddy’s not from this country. You can teach academics; that will come. But there’s something really different about Corbett—that kindness really matters. You can teach it, but when you see it happening day in and day out, I feel like that’s how these children pick up on it.

TBPM: As Sander gets older, what do you look forward to at the school?

EC: We’re really excited about the Community School of the Arts. I think it’s great how it’s open to every student. There are different roles for each child. They can find something they like to do, whether it’s the arts or sports or afterschool activities. For Sander, there’s robotics and the App Lab.

I don’t know what he’s going to be into as he gets older, but there are so many different places he can fall into. I feel like Corbett promotes all of them. It’s not just a sportsy school and it’s not just an artsy school. It’s broad, and you can do one or you can do it all.

TBPM: We can see the school has really helped Sander blossom, but what has the experience been like for you as a parent?

EC: I don’t even know where we would be if we didn’t come here. Everyone is treated like family. I get so emotional because Sander had a really rough birth and they have just welcomed us with all of his needs and challenges. And it’s just amazing. We have met all of our people here. We have met all of our friends. And not just friends on the surface—I can call anybody if I needed something and they would help out. It’s like a village. The community has been so good for us.

We want to be kind individuals. We have been blessed, and I just want him to grow up where he just treats everybody the same.

I feel like Corbett is such a no judgement zone. No matter where you come from, no matter who you are—everyone is treated the same. I think it’s just welcoming. I have never felt like a burden to the teachers and I feel like I’m a lot to handle. It’s just a magical place.

TBPM: What are your favorite things to do as a family in Tampa Bay?

EC: We love going to Glazer Children’s Museum. Sander loves ZooTampa and we love the beach.

WHAT STARTS stretches your ambition

inspires you to forge your own path, challenges you to go far and deep, and encourages you to shine as part of an exceptional and diverse community. is is education as you always imagined it, and it thrives at Berkeley Preparatory School.

BERKELEYPREP.ORG

Fall Sports: Game Day Fun with the home teams!

by Brie Gorecki

Tampa Bay Rowdies Home Games:

Saturday, Sept. 2 at 7:30 p.m. vs. Hartford Athletic

Saturday, Sept. 9 at 7:30 p.m. vs. Louisville City FC

Saturday, Sept. 23 at 7:30 p.m. vs. Memphis 901 FC

Saturday, Sept. 30 at 7:30 p.m. vs. Loudoun United FC

Tampa Bay Rowdies Quick Facts:

• All children ages 2 and older must have a ticket.

• Al Lang Stadium is cash-free.

Don’t forget to join the fan club!

JR. BUCS FAN CLUB

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

September Home Games:

Sunday, Sept. 17 at 1 p.m. vs. Chicago Bears

Monday, Sept. 25 at 7:15 p.m. vs. Philadelphia Eagles

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Quick Facts:

• All attendees must have a ticket due to NFL policy. Tickets are accessible via mobile device only.

• Go early to check out Bucs Beach on the side of the stadium along Tampa Bay Boulevard. There are plenty of photo ops, performers, music and more!

• Check out the Jr. Bucs Kids Zone too. Kids can test their skills in the inflatable obstacle course, try on a real Bucs uniform, toss a football and more!

Tampa Bay Lightning Preseason Home Games in September:

Friday, Sept. 29 at 7 p.m. vs. Carolina Hurricanes

Saturday, Sept. 30 at 5 p.m. vs. Nashville Predators

Tampa Bay Lightning Quick Facts:

• Children under 2 do not need a ticket as long as they can sit on a lap.

• The Kids Club table is typically located in section 128 during games.

• Get your camera ready! ThunderBug is at every game.

• No bags are allowed into Al Lang Stadium with the exception of diaper bags, medical bags, and bags smaller than 5x8 inches.

Tampa Bay Rays

September Home Games:

Sept. 4, 5, 6 vs. Boston Red Sox

Sept. 7, 8, 9, 10 vs. Seattle Mariners

Sept. 19, 20, 21 vs. Los Angeles Angels

Sept. 22, 23, 24 vs. Toronto Blue Jays

Tampa Bay Rays

Quick Facts:

• Children ages 2 and older must have a ticket.

• Be sure to check out the Rays Touch Experience—a 10,000-gallon touch tank exhibit in partnership with the Florida Aquarium. It’s located just beyond the right-center field fence.

• Kids can run the bases after Sunday home games. They also have two players signing autographs for kids prior to the game on Sundays as part of their Family Fundays!

• Check out their promotions schedule on raysbaseball.com for a list of themed games and giveaways like bobble heads, hats, and more this season.

Kids 14 and younger can become a super fan with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers! There is a one-time registration fee of $24.99 which includes your child’s welcome kit full of Bucs swag like an official membership card, Bucs hat, and more. Your child will also get priority invites to future Jr. Bucs events. Join today at buccaneers.com/fans/jr-bucs.

THUNDERBUG’S KIDS CLUB

Membership for the current season is FREE. You’ll get notifications about special events for Kids’ Club members and take advantage of some of the online fun like coloring pages, games and more. Kids Club members also get one FREE kids’ admission to MOSI with a paying adult. Join at nhl.com/lightning/fans/kids-club

Nothing says fall like settling into the stands, and aren’t we lucky with our sports scene in Champa Bay! Here are several home games families can experience this month:

photo provided by Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Keeping Cool in School

by Laura Cross

Hot, humid and muggy!

Those are just a few of the words to describe the intense heat the Tampa Bay area has been experiencing this summer.

It’s probably tough for the air conditioning in your house to keep up! Now imagine how hard it is on the air conditioning in our schools. Hillsborough County Public Schools has 29 million square feet of airconditioned space in our schools. That is the equivalent of 14,500 2,000-square-foot homes!

Air conditioners are bound to break or need repairs. That’s one of the main reasons voters approved the half-penny sales tax Education Referendum back in 2018. Money raised by the Referendum goes directly into our Operations bucket, in part to replace and repair air conditioners.

Just this past summer, crews replaced or renovated air conditioning systems at 14 of our schools.

This year, we have invested more than $87 million into major air conditioning upgrades, fire alarm system replacements and other infrastructure improvements.

But, as parents, you know that no matter how good an air conditioner is, it sometimes cannot keep up with the Florida heat, especially when kids are running in and out of the doors every few minutes. How many times this summer did you say, “Stop opening the door, I’m not air conditioning the whole neighborhood!”

Hillsborough County Public Schools has a room at its Maintenance Operations Center filled with computers that can monitor the temperature in every room, at every school.

Kenny Otero is the Department Manager of Air Conditioning and Energy Management. He and his crew are up before the sun, to monitor our air conditioning systems.

“We turn all the chillers on around 3 a.m. right now. That’s crunch time,” says Otero. “That gives us a chance to see what’s working, what’s not working, and it gives me a chance to start my crews as early as possible at those sites.”

Sometimes, the fix is as easy as resetting the system. Sometimes it’s more complicated. Parts may have to be ordered and could be on back order. That’s when our maintenance department works with the school administration to explain the situation and try to find other solutions.

For example, if a room is going to be without air conditioning for hours or even days, they’ll communicate that to the principal, who will then work with the teacher to move the class to an air-conditioned space or come up with other cooling measures, like portable chillers.

Otero wants parents to know that his crew takes every outage personally—as if it’s their own child sitting in that warm room.

“The most important thing is a safe and comfortable learning environment for our kids and staff,” explained Otero. “In this unprecedented heat, we have our challenges. But that’s the mission, and that’s what my crew is dedicated to.”

WELCOME to Hillsborough County Public Schools

Where talented students, phenomenal teachers, and dedicated employees come together to create an exceptional teaching and learning environment!

Ranked the seventh largest school district in the nation, Hillsborough County Public Schools provides high-quality education, award-winning programs, and career pathways for all students. Our dedicated educators foster a supportive and engaging learning environment while providing innovative resources and technologies to prepare students for life.

Visit Hillsboroughschools.org to learn how we can help your child unlock their full potential and achieve great success!

www.HillsboroughSchools.org

5 Storage Solutions for Adorable Artwork

by Karimah Henry, @Craftingafunlife

As a parent who saves all my children’s artwork, I had to find a better way to store or display the pieces—something that can get overwhelming, especially if you have multiple kids. You don’t want to hurt your little one’s feelings, but hoarding is not an option. Whether it’s adorable art projects from school or crafts you make together at home, here are five ways to organize or display your child’s artwork.

PEGBOARD AND DRY ERASE POCKETS

As a crafter, I love using pegboards to organize my craft supplies. Since my pegboard is located in a shared space, I thought it would be a great idea to use it to display some of my children’s artwork. Simply insert a drawing into a dry erase pocket, and then hang the dry erase pocket on the pegboard. You can change the artwork once a week or once a month.

PLASTIC BINS

Plastic bins that can be stored under beds or in a closet make an easy storage option for your child’s art collection. Use a clear plastic bin and hanging file folders. Label by each school year and include a picture of your child.

BINDER & SHEET PROTECTORS

If you don’t want to display your child’s artwork around the house, store the pieces in a 3-ring binder. Ask your child to select up to 20 of their favorite pieces of artwork for the year. Place the pieces inside a sheet protector. This makes the contents easy to see, and you can buy more pages to add to the book. Store the binder on a bookshelf. Your child can show off their creative masterpieces whenever friends or family come over.

FILING CABINET

This is how my mom used to store all of our keepsakes when I was younger. Each child had a drawer with their name labeled on the outside.

It’s such a simple and practical way to store your child’s artwork. Each drawer can represent 2-4 years of crafts for one child.

PLATE HOLDER

Plate holders are a fun tool to display crafts that are made using canvas panels, recycled cardboard, odd shapes or large papers. You can place the holder in your child’s room, or in the kitchen, office or living room.

I like the idea of creating a theme for the week or month, especially around the holidays.

I recommend going through all of your child’s artwork at the end of each calendar year. Separate items based on what they want to keep, recycle or give to a family member. If your child decides to keep too many, scan some and create an electronic copy of their artwork.

Fall into Healthy Habits with a Tampa YMCA Membership

by Kiran Malik-Khan, Senior Communications Director, Tampa YMCA

YMCA MEMBERSHIP INCLUDES:

Access to 14 Tampa Y locations and YMCA

The Tampa YMCA is so much more than the gym and swim you know us for; it’s where you find a deeper sense of belonging. Each of our locations across Tampa Bay offers activities and programs based on local community needs, like art classes, initiatives for seniors and one of the most popular sports, pickleball! Programs such as swim leagues, Stay & Play child watch, volunteer days and donation drives are available at all family centers. We are a one-stop shop for your family, so join any Tampa Y this fall and start your journey to a variety of healthy habits.

In addition to exclusive member savings, a Tampa Y membership unlocks potential for every individual. Families with school-age children engage in camp and sports and build self-confidence. Teens learn leadership skills and bond with peers on collaborative projects, adults and seniors form friendships and maintain a healthy lifestyle. And, Parents’ Night Out gives parents a chance to find that elusive quality time. From special rates on swim lessons, afterschool care and sports, members of all ages can participate in activities and programs focused on mind, body and spirit.

“YMCA members can reach more than fitness goals because the Y is a welcoming, supportive space to build relationships for all,” says Jennifer Wainman, vice president, marketing/chief marketing officer at the Tampa Y. “As children head back to school and fall routines are established, we want families to consider joining the Y, because we have something for everyone.”

Additionally, the Tampa YMCA offers a 10% military discount as well as $0 join fee for all active and retired military personnel. Contact your YMCA for more information and to join today!

We also offer scholarships for all membership options. You can learn more about the Open Doors financial assistance program and find the application at tampaymca.org.

Please remember the YMCA is a charity, and if you would like to donate to any of our amazing programs, we would appreciate it. We want to empower every individual in our community to reach their healthiest and most fulfilled life.

For additional information and to join today, visit tampaymca.org/membership/join-now.

For 100 years, Shorecrest has been a part of the Tampa Bay Area, educating a diverse community of students, age 3 years-old through 12th grade. Experience the curriculum, community and opportunities available at Shorecrest at an open house this fall.

Experiential & Lower School

Open House (PK3-Grade 4)

Saturday, October 14 10am-12pm

Middle & Upper School

Open House (Grades 5-12)

Thursday, October 26 6:30-8:30pm

Experiential & Lower School

Virtual Open House (PK3-Grade 4)

Tuesday, November 14 7pm via Zoom

Middle & Upper School

Virtual Open House (Grades 5-12)

Wednesday, November 15 7pm via Zoom

EverMom is For Every Mom

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

When Lexi Floyd-Nye and Annie Kushner met at a breastfeeding group as first-time moms, they became instant friends and soon realized they shared more in common than just newborns. Both feeling the lack of community in this new season of motherhood, the more they talked with other moms, the more they realized they were not alone. That’s when the St. Pete moms hatched an idea that is now a reality: The EverMom Collective.

TBPM: What is The EverMom Collective?

The EverMom Collective is a St. Pete-areabased community that embraces moms in all seasons of motherhood by connecting them to each other, their community and themselves as the people they are beyond motherhood.

TBPM: Beyond motherhood. I like that. So it’s for moms, but it’s also ABOUT moms as individuals.

Lexi: Yes, we have kids, but motherhood doesn’t erase all the other facets of who we are.

Annie: Exactly. I love being a mom. It’s cliche but true to say that it’s one of the best experiences of my life. And also, I have a moment each day when I am over it and need a break from my kids and wonder where my life and freedom went. It’s a horrible feeling to step back and wonder who you are without your kids and not have an answer. Every month we host Moms’ Time Out events that give our moms a chance to take some time for themselves and reconnect with who they were before motherhood. We feel it’s important to take a break from the constant “to do” lists of parenting and recharge yourself so that you can show up better for yourself and your family the next day.

Lexi: I love to say that at EverMom, we are here to mom you. We are here to make you the priority by filling your cup through deep

conversation, fun events and having the resources and tools you need in one convenient spot.

TBPM: What are the different ways that moms can connect through EverMom?

We provide an online platform and in-person events for our moms to connect. The beauty of the online platform is that it’s available 24/7, so if your schedule is hectic and it’s hard to make it to the in-person events, you can still stay connected.

The feature that we feel is really unique about our platform is the 20+ subgroups we have, where moms can find other local moms who are in similar seasons of motherhood and/ or who identify in similar ways to them (ex. Moms of High Schoolers, LGBTQ+ Families, Momtrepreneurs, etc.). Moms can be part of as many as they’d like and each subgroup has its own private space where moms can chat, create meetups and share resources.

We have two signature in-person events, which are our Conversation Circles and our Moms’ Time Out events. We mentioned earlier that the Moms’ Time Out events are a once-a-month fun night out for our moms to come with their friends or come solo and meet some new mom friends. Our Conversation Circles are a space

for moms to reflect and share about their lives in a facilitated discussion that goes a bit deeper than the typical playground talk. Recent topics in these circles have been: “How are you doing with setting and holding boundaries in your life?” and “Modern Motherhood: What are some of the unique challenges and benefits of parenting in today’s world?”

TBPM: What’s your biggest hope for EverMom?

We know that humans are social beings and our core hope is to provide moms in all seasons of motherhood with a community that they feel truly connected to. Everyone wants to find their tribe and we are here to help facilitate that.

Meet Dr. Millie Cortes, DMD

TBPM: Can you share details about your Hispanic heritage?

MC: I was born and raised in Puerto Rico. My brother, parents and I were always surrounded by our large extended family. Uncles, aunts and cousins attended every holiday, birthday and graduation. The entire family showed up for school plays because that’s what Puerto Rican families do. Mom always made extra food for the expected, unannounced guests.

TBPM: Tell us about your education.

MC: I’m a pediatric dentist and attended undergraduate and graduate schools in Puerto Rico—graduating from what was the island’s only dental school. Annually, only four students are accepted into the pediatric dental specialty program.

I also completed a residency in advanced general dentistry at NOVA Southeastern University, followed by a hospital-based dentistry program at Miami Valley Hospital (a major trauma center in Dayton, OH).

Pursuing a better future, in 2006, I made the difficult decision of leaving my family, my country and my culture. With opportunities for professional growth and geographically near Puerto Rico, I chose Florida. Adjusting to a different country, without family and friends, was tough.

During licensure testing in Gainesville, I met my husband, a dentist, William Wang.

TBPM: Are you raising multilingual children?

MC: William, Taiwanese, speaks Mandarin and English. We’re teaching our kids Spanish and Mandarin so they’re comfortable traveling the world.

Bilingualism lets me help Hispanic patients who, despite English fluency, feel more comfortable communicating concerns in Spanish.

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage in Tampa Bay

by Tara Payor, Ph.D.

National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. Tampa is rich with Hispanic Heritage. Two Tampa moms, originally from Puerto Rico, share details about their roots and raising their own children.

TBPM: How do you teach your children about their Hispanic heritage?

MC: Strong family relationships and frequent visits to Puerto Rico. Celebrating with family in Puerto Rico helps them learn about our roots. We travel the island sharing my childhood stories. It’s important that they develop a genuine love for Puerto Rico and our traditions.

TBPM: Professionally, have you faced any challenges because of your Hispanic heritage?

MC: Dentistry, traditionally male dominated, has proven challenging for Latinas. I’m proud to be a female Hispanic pediatric dentist who’s making a difference by educating children in oral health. I love what I do.

My husband and I started our practice, Wang and Cortes Dental, in a 900-square-foot building with one pediatric patient. With family and community support, coupled with hard work, we’ve grown into a multispecialty practice offering cosmetic, implant and pediatric dentistry and orthodontics.

TBPM: Advice for young Hispanics pursuing their dreams?

MC: Embrace your heritage. Keep your traditions alive. Use your culture to help achieve success in your profession and realize your dreams.

TBPM: Any Latino role models?

MC: Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. She came from humble beginnings and overcame barriers in a male dominated profession.

TBPM: Favorite ways to celebrate your Hispanic heritage?

MC: Three Kings Day. My family gathered at my parents’ house—a sleepover with cousins. Before bedtime, we gathered grass and water for the camels and bourbon for the Three Kings. At morning, we’d find presents from them. It was magical and innocent. Witnessing my kids’ innocence and magic with the tradition is amazing.

TBPM: Spanish restaurant recommendations?

MC: La Casona and Tostones Inc. But there’s nothing like a homemade, Puerto Rican meal. My family loves dishes my mom taught me, like carne guisada—beef stew with carrots and potatoes. Comfort food. My mom’s cure for el catarro, the common cold.

TBPM: A Latin song that always gets you dancing?

MC: Anything by Marc Anthony.

The Wang (Cortes) family—Millie (mom), Alexander (son), Ana Sofia (daughter), and William (husband).

photo by Sarah Jin

Meet Dr. Soli Salud, M.D.

TBPM: Can you share details about your Hispanic heritage?

SS: When my twin sister and I were 3 years old, my parents moved us from Puerto Rico to a small Texas town. We lasted two years; I learned English before moving back to Puerto Rico. Within a year, my parents chose moving back to the United States for better opportunities. Our move landed us in a high-crime Orlando suburb. Ultimately, we found my parents’ dream neighborhood and forever home in Winter Park.

TBPM: What does your Hispanic heritage mean to you?

SS: A Hispanic household meant extended family was often present. My grandmother regularly visited from Puerto Rico, staying for months. We attended Spanish church services and being among other Hispanic families felt familial. I still recite most prayers in Spanish, and I’m grateful my kids learn the same prayers at school. I have fond memories of rice and beans at dinner, Spanish music playing during weekend chores and dance-filled parties.

TBPM: Are you raising multilingual children?

SS: I’m fortunate to speak, read and write Spanish. Spanish isn’t our home’s primary language, but the kids hear it with grandparents and learn it at school.

TBPM: Has being Latina proven a career advantage?

SS: I’m a pediatrician with Baycare Medical Group and graduated from Rollins College and USF’s College of Medicine. I’m fortunate I can speak Spanish and connect with my Spanish speaking patients, advantageous in Tampa.

TBPM: Any Latino role models?

SS: My parents. They sacrificed much to give my sister and I the best opportunities and remain our biggest supporters—encouraging us and always proud of our accomplishments.

TBPM: Did you inherit any Spanish recipes?

SS: Arroz con gandules reminds me of home. As a kid, I’d pick out all the gandules (pigeon peas) and just eat the rice…my kids keep that tradition alive.

TBPM: Spanish restaurant recommendations?

SS: Gio’s and El Cafetal. Both serve delicious Latin food.

TBPM: Favorite ways to celebrate your Hispanic heritage?

SS: My favorite traditions are at Christmas time. We celebrate Noche Buena (Christmas Eve). After mass, we eat traditional Puerto Rican foods: pork, arroz con gandules, pasteles and tostones. Honoring the Three Kings’ visit to baby Jesus, our Christmas tree stays up until Jan. 6. I feel fortunate continuing these traditions with our children.

Que sabor!

Jenny from @lunchboxmafia puts a new twist on a community classic.

As we celebrate Hispanic heritage, I wanted to share one of my family’s favorite recipes, Cuban sandwich empanadas! I surprised my friends with these one night for dinner, and they were a huge hit. All the ingredients, including the seasoning and sauce, are available at Publix.

INGREDIENTS

For the filling:

1 cup slow roasted pork (see instructions)

1 cup diced deli ham

3/4 cup Swiss cheese

1/4 cup mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup diced dill pickles

1 tablespoon mayonnaise

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon pickle juice

DIRECTIONS

For the slow roasted pork:

1 pound boneless pork ribs

1 cup citrus mojo sauce (I used the Iberia brand.)

2 tablespoons Sazon Completa seasoning

For the empanadas:

10 store-bought empanada discs. (See the freezer section of international food). Oil to fry or avocado spray to air-fry.

To prepare the slow roasted pork

1. Marinate the boneless ribs with the citrus mojo sauce for at least one hour.

2. Season the pork with Sazón Completa seasoning.

3. Slow cook the pork in a crockpot on the “high” setting for 4 hours.

4. Shred the cooked pork with a fork.

To make the empanadas

1. Combine mayo, mustard and pickle juice.

2. In a bowl, mix the mixture from step 1 with the meat, cheese and pickles until all ingredients are well combined.

3. Place 2 tablespoons of the mixture from Step 2 into the center of an empanada disc.

4. Fold your empanada in half, press the ends closed gently, and crimp the edges with a fork.

5. Fry in canola oil or air-fry. To air-fry: Spray your basket. Place empanadas into the basket in a single layer. Spray the empanadas. Bake at 350 for 5 minutes. Flip and spray the empanadas again. Bake another 5 minutes.

Serve these delicious empanadas alone for a snack, with chips and fruit for lunch, or with black beans and rice for dinner.

Follow me on Instagram @lunchboxmafia for more delicious recipes. Enjoy, Jenny xoxo

The Salud family—Soli (mom), Jocelyn (daughter), Alex (son), and Christopher (husband).

Moms to Know

Dominique Richardson Author

by Julie Tingley, founder of @weemacree

When you hold your first published book in your hands for the very first time, that’s the moment when you know, as an author, that your dream has come true. That’s the day you either exhale in relief or fill with excitement for the pursuit of new readers … or write three more books to complete the series in six short months if your name is Dominique Richardson. Then, you go on to host Tampa Bay’s first book festival with your nonprofit, YA By the Bay, to promote a love for literacy and leadership among local students. No, this is not fiction. And yes, you should know this local mom and her story behind her stories.

TBPM: You received your first book deal in 2022. In 2023, you held not only your first co-authored book in your hands, but four complete Young Adult novels. Tell us about your journey to becoming published.

DR: The journey to signing my first book contract took fifteen years. Fifteen years of steps toward learning the craft of writing and the publishing industry. I am not a believer in the overnight success story. It only seems like “an overnight success” because no one ever sees the years of hard work while you’re in obscurity. The biggest lesson I’ve learned on this path is to never give up. It’s the day in, day out perseverance that leads to success.

TBPM: The books that you wrote with Sorboni Banerjee reflect your biracial heritage, having been raised between Jamaica and the United States. How does your background and experiences influence the themes and characters in your writing?

DR: Sorboni and I both grew up across cultures. When we teamed up to write together, we knew we wanted to incorporate our different heritages into this story. We pitched the first book in the series, “Red as Blood,” as Riverdale meets fairy tale, an edgy contemporary twist on the age-old stories you think you know. Pulling from our multicultural roots, we gave fairy tales a real-life reboot. The "princesses" of Everbeach are diverse female role models who break socioeconomic barriers, smash gender stereotypes and fight back against corruption and classism to find their true happily ever after.

One of my main characters, Raven (our Snow-White archetype) has skin as white as snow, like her dad instead of her Black mom. Raised in Jamaica until her mother’s untimely death, she is the apple of her father’s eye until the day a poisonous new stepmother walks into their lives. Raven has to reclaim her identity in time to save her friend. Raven’s journey of figuring out where she belongs and fully connecting with her mom’s Jamaican culture was inspired by my experience growing up biracial, where you don’t fit neatly in one box or another. Also, it was a ton of fun writing our fairy godmother character, Titania, who is a Jamaican seamstress living in the wealthy town of Everbeach where this story takes place. Like my family, Titania speaks with a mix of Jamaican patois and English.

TBPM: In addition to launching a four-book series as a debut author, you also co-founded a nonprofit organization, YA By the Bay, with a big event date next month. What can you share about this inspiring initiative and its intended impact?

DR: YA by the Bay is a young adult reading and leadership festival that will take place Oct. 13 and 14 at the Tampa Bay Convention Center. There will be over thirty authors participating in this festival centered around young adult literature. Our keynotes are international bestselling author R.L. Stine, New York Times bestselling author Tiffany D. Jackson, and Sunshine State award-winning author Jeff Zentner. Our goal is to create an enriching community experience where readers across the Tampa Bay area have an opportunity to immerse themselves in a dynamic festival celebrating literature and reading.

TBPM: The motto of YA by the Bay is to “be the author of your own life.” How will the programming for the event encourage teens to take charge of their own life stories?

DR: We want to inspire teens to use the power of their words and storytelling to achieve dreams, make a difference and “be the author of your own life.” The authors and industry professionals participating in YA by the Bay are leaders in their field. They will share their experiences to inspire and help teens see how they too can reach their life goals. The panel topics will be geared toward this initiative.

TBPM: While other big cities across the country host book festivals and literary events, this is a first for Tampa Bay. What can we expect to see and how can the local community be a part of the excitement?

DR: The first day of the event will be solely for students and educators, where attendees will participate in author-led panel discussions focused on writing and leadership fulfilling a core piece of our mission to “turn readers into leaders.” The second day of the festival is open to the public, and there will be various author-led panels, book signings and several marquee events with our keynote authors. The best way to be a part of the excitement is to come to the festival! Help us spread the word by sharing this event on social media and with anyone in your life who loves books and reading. Tickets are up for sale on Eventbrite now for only $12 and are free for anyone under 18. Businesses can partner with YA by the Bay and become sponsors to help keep the festival free for teens, get books in the hands of kids who might otherwise not be able to afford them, and support writing scholarships for college hopefuls.

photo by Jen Naugle Photography

Emersyn Kids to Know:

by Julie Tingley, founder of @weemacree

September is National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a time to shed light on the stories of incredible young warriors who demonstrate unparalleled strength in the face of adversity. I have the honor of sharing one such remarkable journey – that of 7-year-old Emersyn, who bravely confronts medulloblastoma with her family, the community and the Children’s Cancer Center by her side.

“This month also reveals the unique ways that the Children's Cancer Center is there for families,” says Patty O'Leary, Executive Director of Children’s Cancer Center. “It’s important to remember that children need more than medicine to beat childhood cancer. While other organizations are working to find a cure tomorrow, the Children's Cancer Center is committed to helping families cope today."

Emersyn’s story reminds us of the extraordinary fighting power of love and the strength in numbers when a community joins for children like her in September and every day after.

TBPM: Please tell us about yourself and what you love to do.

ES: I’m Emersyn but my favorite people call me Emmie Cakes. I am going into first grade and I can't wait! I love building with my Duplos, playing board games with my parents, and playing pretend (I love to be a doctor or chef).

TBPM: What do you want other families to know about your experience with medulloblastoma?

ES: That having cancer sucks. I take medicine every day, and even though I've been doing it for two years, I'm still not cancer free. I hate that I have to be super careful, when I just want to run and jump like everybody else.

MOM: Childhood cancer is massively underfunded. If you can attend a fundraiser or a charity run, do it. Smaller organizations have saved us time and time again, and the organization funding her clinical trial is one of those. We need to find better ways to treat tiny humans and research cures for the incurable. There is so much attention on wearing pink in October but what about September?

TBPM: Can you share some of the things that helped you feel better during your treatments?

ES: I love when I'm not in the hospital, I can go to Children’s Cancer Center and see some of my favorite volunteers there. We play and make music (I love to perform for them) and I love their parties. On my really crummy days, I like having a stuffed animal to snuggle, and if I'm at the hospital, I like to see my Child Life Specialist, Hannah, and her new dog Revere.

TBPM: What are some positive moments you've experienced in your journey with cancer?

ES: The Christmas party at Children's Cancer Center was so fun! Last year, I saw Anna and Elsa, and I even met Santa! Also, I love learning sign language at school because my friends learn with me and we can communicate together. I learn it with my sign language teacher, but a few people sign at school and that makes me so happy!

TBPM: Who are the people that have made you feel really happy or extra brave over the past two years since your diagnosis? How have they made a difference?

ES: My mom and dad make me feel happy and brave. They help me take my medicine, they tuck me in at night, and always take care of me. My grandparents also make me feel happy because they help me learn to swim.

TBPM: September is not only Childhood Cancer Awareness Month but also your birthday! How do you want to celebrate turning 7 on Sept. 27?

ES: I finish my clinical trial medicine in September too! We're having a birthday party but also celebrating finishing this treatment, because it kept my cancer asleep for two years! My party will be ‘Finding Dory’ themed and I can't wait to see my family and friends.

TBPM: What do you love most about school?

ES: I love my friends and my teachers. I love all my special teachers: my sign language teacher, my physical therapist and my occupational therapist. I love trying to get help to be my best, and my teachers help me so much.

TBPM: Your mom, Gabby, told us that your motto is to “live life to the fullest.” How would you explain this to other kids that may be facing challenges?

ES: Just keep swimming. My parents call me Dory because I forget a lot (from my treatments) and we always say to just keep going. You will get through the hard stuff, and you can be strong.

TBPM: What do you want to be when you grow up?

ES: I’d like to be a doctor or a veterinarian. I like that I could help animals or humans.

Baby Registry Top Picks

Strollers, Bottles and High Chairs, oh my!

by Sarah Rigby

There is an endless list of things to consider when you are expecting, and putting together a registry may take the cake as one of the most overwhelming. With all the products on the market, and new ones coming out every day, it is no wonder we look to experts and friends when trying to make the best decisions for our little one. Let us take off a little of the pressure and give some of our top picks to get you started!

MOCKINGBIRD SINGLE-TO-DOUBLE STROLLER

If you have done much research, you know there are not a lot of singleto-double strollers on the market that truly do it all. The Mockingbird has become a favorite as it is not only a great option for one child, but with the 2nd Seat Kit and infant

accessories, you can accommodate a growing family through every stage. The best part? This stroller rivals top brands in functionality while keeping the price affordable!

The Mockingbird single-to-double stroller starts at $450 and you can add on the second seat kit for $145. They also have car seat adaptors for nearly all the top brands as well as a bassinet option if that is more your style.

It also features a one-handed fold that allows the stroller to stand upright when folded, UPF 50+ all-weather canopy, tilting handle bar, options for forward or rear facing, and the list goes on! Learn more at hellomockingbird.com .

BABY'S BREW BOTTLE WARMER 3.0

Screw your favorite bottle straight onto the warmer and let it do the work! Smart sensor technology warms to the ideal temperature with no risk of overheating. Fully portable, with no need for water or an outlet, the stainless steel, leak-proof design means you can easily carry it in a diaper bag, purse or cup holder.

$114 - thebabysbrew.com

CHICCO ONEFIT CLEARTEX ALL-IN-ONE CAR SEAT

From birth through booster, this car seat does it all! You can feel good knowing that their ClearTex fabrics include no added fire retardants and are also Greenguard Gold Certified, which means fewer toxic chemicals for you and your baby without compromising on safety. This car seat also features a 9-position recline and a slim space-saving design.

$299.99 - chiccousa.com

CYBEX PLATINUM COYA STROLLER

Foldable within seconds, lightweight and boasting a carry-on compatible design, the Coya is perfect for travel days or when you just need something more compact. Features include a trifold design, near-flat recline, snug one-pull harness, and a beyond smooth glide. It comes with an integrated shoulder strap, but you can also purchase a travel bag to make carrying even easier.

Starting at $499.95 cybex-online.com

On the Go

WHITE

White Elm was started by a mom who couldn't find what she wanted in the market, so she decided to create her own. The designs have been a hit!

One White Elm top seller, The Gemini, is the bag that can do it all. Wear it as a backpack, tote or cross body. It features a laptop sleeve, numerous pockets, premium vegan leather exterior and a water-resistant interior lining.

$195 - shopwhiteelm.com

DAGNE DOVER INDI NEOPRENE DIAPER BACKPACK

Perfect for Mom or Dad, this backpack packs quite the punch! We love the soft, neoprene fabric and that it comes in small, medium and large to fit your needs. All sizes come with an insulated bottle holder, changing mat, washable zipper bag, neoprene pouch and stroller clips.

$165-$215 - dagnedover.com

ELM GEMINI CONVERTIBLE BACKPACK

LITTLE UNICORN COTTON MUSLIN SQUARES

Approximately half the size of their best-loved swaddles, Little Unicorn’s Squares are 27 inches by 27 inches and fit neatly into any diaper bag. Made from 100% premium cotton muslin, the Squares are designed to handle any need while on-the-go. Use as a lightweight blanket, nursing cover, and more!

$30 - littleunicorn.com

KYTE BABY ZIPPERED FOOTIE

Cut from silky smooth bamboo rayon, these soft and snuggly footies are at the top of our list! They come in a variety of colors, and the stretchy material gives you the option of a snug or loose fit. Footies feature a dual zipper, fold-over cuffs for babies 0-3 months, and sole grips for babies 6-12 months and older.

$36 - kytebaby.com

STOKKE TRIPP TRAPP

A registry favorite for decades, the Tripp Trapp has been around since 1972! Its ergonomic design allows for adjustment of both the foot plate and seat, and it can be pulled right up to the table to keep kids included in family meals. Its simple design is easy to clean and comes in a variety of colors to fit any style.

Pair it with a range of accessories including the newborn or baby set, tray and cushions.

Starting at $239 - stokke.com

BABYCOOK NEO® BABY FOOD MAKER PROCESSOR

For baby food making at its finest, our favorite features of this tool include the use of soft steam to preserve nutrients, as well as the glass bowl and stainless-steel steam basket for healthy, non-toxic cooking. The processor steams, mixes, defrosts and reheats and features a large capacity basket to prepare four 150-gram portions. This means fewer dishes for you and less time spent in the kitchen!

$259.95 - beaba.com

MILA’S KEEPER

Perfect for the mama on the go, this stylish breast milk cooler system can be used both cold and hot. It can keep milk safe for up to 20 hours with use of the attachable ice packs. Just add hot water to the thermos to warm when it's time to feed. The glass bottles, that fit perfectly inside the cooler, come with both narrow and wide mouths to attach directly to a range of breast pumps and nipples. This means there is one less thing to bring with you and one less thing to clean!

A variety of gift sets, colors and combinations are available at milaskeeper.com starting at $67.

COMOTOMO BABY BOTTLE BUNDLE

This 7-piece set is the perfect gift for new parents. Comotomo's beloved bottles feature an innovative design that closely mimics breastfeeding and are made of food grade silicone, making this a great non-toxic option. The bundle comes with both 5- and 8-ounce bottles, as well as slow, medium and fast flow nipples to grow with your baby.

$59.99 comotomo.com

EZPZ MINI FEEDING SET

As your infant transitions to toddlerhood, they are ready to start practicing new mealtime milestones. The Mini Feeding Set provides all of the developmental tools you need for independent mealtime with your toddler.

$34.99 - ezpzfun.com

MUSHIE FEEDING ESSENTIALS

Mushie's line of feeding essentials are made from non-toxic, food-grade silicone and are dishwasher safe, making it a no-brainer for feeding your little one. From the favorite baby bib, to utensils, plates, bowls and cups, Mushie has you covered! Prices vary by product - mushie.com

BABYBREZZA ONE STEP™

BABY BOTTLE STERILIZER AND DRYER ADVANCED

This handy device automatically sterilizes and dries bottles, pump parts and accessories. Using natural steam, it kills 99.9% of germs and can hold up to eight bottles and two pump part sets, making cleaning a breeze! Select from four functions including sterilize and dry, sterilize only, dry only or use for storage.

$139.99 babybrezza.com

LOVEVERY PLAY GYM

Designed to grow with your child from newborn to toddler, this play mat provides stagebased activities that engage them throughout their first year. It features five developmental zones, four detachable activity toys, four sets of cards and a play guide with stage-based tips and activities developed by experts.

$140 - lovevery.com

THE LOOKER PLAY KIT

Designed for age appropriate development and play, the Looker Play Kit is the perfect gift for new parents. For ages 0-12 weeks, the kit includes high-contrast images and sensory toys to help with baby’s developing eyesight and brain connections. The kit also includes a play guide that provides the “why” and “how” behind each thoughtfully designed item.

Subscriptions start at $80 every two months for the first year. Learn more at lovevery.com.

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DELTA CHILDREN BREATHE MATTRESS

Have peace of mind knowing your child is breathing easy. Greenguard Gold Certified and hypoallergenic, Delta Children has a new mattress on the market. It features a 100% breathable cover and cloud core, two-stage design for infants and toddlers, waterproof barrier and washable cover.

$139.99 deltachildren.com

TODDLEKIND PLAYMATS

No need to compromise on style with these "prettier" playmats from Toddlekind. Their puzzle playmats are made from biodegradable foam and provide a plush and cushioned surface for playtime. The puzzle design also makes it easy to adjust the size to fit your space. Starting at $124.99.

Toddlekind also has quilted cotton reversible playmats perfect for baby at home or on the go! $79.99. toddlekind.com

MERRITT™ TRAVEL CRIB & PLAYARD

Designed to be the ultimate portable playard, this travel crib can be used right from birth. Featuring a breathable mesh surround, fold-away changing station and adjustable bassinet perfect for newborns, the crib also folds with one hand and includes a backpack-style storage bag for easy transportation.

$249 - gladlyfamily.com

NANIT PRO CAMERA

The most awarded, connected baby monitor and app on the market, Nanit gives you peace of mind with their innovative technology. Available in a wall mount, floor stand or flex stand for travel, Nanit easily goes with you. At home or on the go, use your Nanit data to support your baby's wellness and get your best rest.

DÉKOR DIAPER PAIL

Step. Drop. Done. This diaper pail has the hands-free convenience every parent needs and features a self-closing whisper lid, continuous bag system and dual rubber seals to keep those smells where they belong! The pail also comes in three sizes to fit your space and needs.

Starting at $29.95 diaperdekor.com

One of our favorite features is their sensor-free breathing band. The camera tracks the pattern on the band to ensure your baby's wellness without the risk of them kicking it off. Starting at $299 - nanit.com

NANIT SOUND AND LIGHT MACHINE

This smart nursery must-have combines a sound machine with a night light to help children fall asleep, stay asleep longer and build healthy sleep routines. Featuring a wide range of volume and light levels, it's easy to set your favorite routines and control them from your mobile device or the machine itself.

$99.99 - nanit.com

Your Year of Adventure

Start Your Year of Adventure at Girl Scout Fest!

September 23 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Florida State Fairgrounds

Register at gswcf.org/events

Come find out what we’re all about! Spend a day experiencing everything exciting about Girl Scouting at our annual Girl Scout Fest! Girls of all ages and their families are invited to enjoy interactive activities and events that are cool, fun, science-y, interesting, and an incredible amount of fun!

Come give us a try and see all that there is to do in Girl Scouting!

Start your Girl Scout adventure today!

THE TOP 10 DIFFERENCE

Tampa General Hospital is ranked in the top 10 in the nation for Obstetrics and Gynecology by U.S. News & World Report for 2023-2024

by Tampa General Hospital

If you want to understand how special Tampa General Hospital’s (TGH’s) obstetrics and gynecology care is, and how well it stacks up against other health systems, simply look at the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings. The renowned publication just named TGH one of the top 10 obstetrics and gynecology programs in America for 2023-2024.

It might be a complex, lifesaving surgery, like the one that saved Diana McDowell’s newborn son after an ultrasound seven months into her pregnancy revealed an obstructed airway. Or it might entail meeting a wide range of other needs: advanced medical and surgical treatment in the Gynecology Center, compassionate midwifery care, helping women achieve a vaginal birth after undergoing a previous C-section, or innovative programs for the most high-risk individuals.

It’s all entwined in the motto crafted by Dr. Judette Louis, chief of the TGH Women’s Institute and chair of USF Health Morsani College of Medicine’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology: Where you deliver matters.

“We really adhere to that in what we do day-today,” she says. “We are the experts in handling every kind of pregnancy situation, and people seek us out for that reason. It’s uncommon to offer both routine and high-risk care — usually programs are good at one or the other. But we have it all under one roof.”

Diana McDowell learned how true that was. Being wheeled into surgery on a gurney, she

was overcome with emotion as doctors and nurses in scrubs lined the hallway, applauding as she came into view. Soon after, a team of no fewer than 40 of them from the USF Health | Tampa General Hospital Fetal Care Center performed the intricate EXIT procedure — short for ex utero intrapartum treatment — after a choreographed rehearsal and many planning sessions. Without the surgery, baby Quentin would not have been able to breathe at birth. Today, he is a thriving 3-year-old.

“All of them made me feel like they were in this with me every step of the way, before, during and after,” McDowell says.

Kimberly Park agrees fully. Six months into her pregnancy, something felt very wrong, like a weight on her chest. TGH’s MaternalFetal Medicine doctors found fluid around her heart, and she was at high risk to develop heart failure. The team raced into action and used medication to drain the extra fluid, while keeping a close eye on her baby. But six days later, an emergency C-section had to be performed. After birth, her tiny son, who weighed 1 pound 3 ounces, was admitted to the Jennifer Leigh Muma Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at TGH. Thanks to the world-class care they received, he is now a healthy toddler. “They say it takes a village — the NICU is our village,” Park says, “and that’s how we survived.”

“The No. 1 thing that stands out about my staff is their passion for providing high-quality care,” Louis says. “They go above and beyond for

their patients. And the icing on the cake is that many of the faculty and staff here are national leaders in obstetrics and gynecology. They’re the people at the table when guidelines are being developed.”

Expectant mothers, meanwhile, can look to TGH’s heralded academic health system, which offers enormous resources, multidisciplinary care at its best and a top 10 national obstetrics and gynecology program right in their backyard.

“That is how we’re changing this community,” Melissa Golombek, vice president of TGH Children’s Hospital and TGH Women’s Institute, adds. “Every person deserves a delivery provided by one of the top hospitals in the country.”

Diana McDowell, Quentin and their family, thriving after a lifesaving surgery at one of the nation's top 10 hospitals for obstetrics & gynecology.

SAFE SEPTEMBER

BayCare Kids safety expert shares tips to prevent injury

by Anu Varma Panchal

September is all about back-to-school, but it’s also the month set aside for a more sobering “b” word—boo boos. National Childhood Injury Prevention Month is underway, and no one sees more injuries than the people who work at hospitals. BayCare Kids Wellness and Safety Specialist Michelle Sterling shares the four top injuries health care workers see at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, along with tips for preventing them from happening.

WATER SAFETY

We’re surrounded by pools, ponds, lakes and the sea, which is a wonderful thing until child safety is involved. With still-hot temperatures outside, the temptation to jump into the pool without waiting for an adult can be overwhelming, so make sure you follow these guidelines:

• Always designate a “water watcher,” an adult whose only responsibility is to watch kids in the pool.

BIKE/PEDESTRIAN CROSSING INJURIES

Whether your child is a newbie kindergartner walking to school for the first time or if they are seasoned middle schoolers, it’s never too often that you can share these basic tips. They also apply just as much to the college student texting as they step out onto the road or the distracted adult cyclist.

• Always wear a helmet when riding anything with wheels—tricycles, scooters, bicycles, skateboards. Make sure the helmet fits. Safe Kids Worldwide says there should be no more than one or two finger widths between the eyebrows and bottom of the helmet and straps should form a V under the ears when buckled properly.

• Look left, right, left, before crossing the street, even when the street seems empty as you walk up to the crossing. Always take a beat to pause at the edge of the road instead of stepping right out onto the crossing.

• Use crosswalks, be aware of the surroundings and put that phone away when crossing the street. Drivers are often distracted, and darting out from between parked cars into traffic can surprise drivers and cause accidents.

• Wear bright clothing; it’s easier for motorists to spot, especially at dusk and in the evening hours.

CHILD PASSENGER INJURIES

Now that the school year is under way, most kids are preparing to spend hours in their cars being ferried to school and activities. But being a child passenger comes with hazards that you can minimize by following these tips:

• Choose the right car seat according to age, height and weight guidelines, which you can find on the manufacturer’s packaging.

• Keep a child rear-facing until they are 2 years old and children in the back seat until they are 13 years old.

• Never leave a small child alone in the vehicle, even if you are popping into a store to pick up just one thing. Heat stroke in cars is a significant cause of child death in Florida.

• Lock your vehicles when you are at home. Toddlers have been known to enter unlocked vehicles, be unable to to find their way out and become stuck, sometimes with fatal consequences.

For more information about child safety and prevention, visit StJosephsChildrens.org. Salud to a Safe September!

• Install pool fences and self-latching gates. Arm door and window alarms so you can tell if a child exits the house and enters the pool area.

• Remove all temptations. Empty buckets and inflatable pools. Put away all toys and floating objects from the surface of the pool.

• Teach your child to swim. If you do use a flotation device, only trust a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket, not an ordinary blow-up floatie that will only give a child a false sense of security.

• Indoors, make sure you have everything you need for baby’s bath before you put the baby in the tub. Don’t leave a baby unsupervised for a moment, even in just inches of water.

UNSAFE SLEEP

Sadly, deaths from unsafe sleeping habits continue to rise in Hillsborough County where harrowing accounts of babies suffocating in beds and wedged into couches have come to light. While it’s tempting to snuggle all night long in bed, these tips will ensure a safer night for everyone:

• Remember the ABCs of safe sleep: Baby should sleep Alone on their Back in a Crib.

• A crib is not the only option, but it’s important the baby sleeps on a firm, flat surface inside something like a crib or pack and play. Use only a fitted sheet and do not put anything else inside that can be a suffocation hazard, such as a blankets or stuffed animal.

• If you want to stay close to baby, share a room, not a bed.

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Friends Forever

by Ellen McVay

This is the story of two friends who found each other.

Four-year-old Bjorn and 5-year-old Ryan had never met.

But in August of 2021, both were taken to Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital with troubling symptoms.

Within the same week, both received the same devastating diagnosis: acute myeloid leukemia.

“The moment I was told Bjorn had leukemia was the worst day of my life,” says Per, Bjorn’s father.

Ryan’s mother, Michelle, experienced a similar reaction to the news about her son.

“We were heartbroken,” Michelle says. “We didn’t even know how tomorrow was going to happen.”

Indeed, a cancer diagnosis changes the lives of not only young patients, but also their families.

Jennifer Mayer, M.D., specializes in pediatric hematology/oncology at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. She’s been treating cancer patients for decades, and she understands the toll it can take.

“We try very hard to instill our hope and our knowledge,” Mayer says. “Here, we have all of the programs, all of the teams, all the subspecialties that a child will need for the treatment of their cancer.”

Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital has been ranked as the top children’s hospital in Florida for 2023-24 and has the only pediatric cancer program in Florida to rank among the top 50 nationally.

But chemotherapy is not easy, especially for little ones who would rather be elsewhere. Treatment often involves cycling in and out of the hospital over the course of a year or more, with each stay lasting about 30 days.

Two young boys diagnosed with the same type of cancer in the same week meet in the cancer unit of Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital and forge a friendship that will help them through tough times.

But if cancer units are typically thought to be quiet, sterile, somber places, the one at Johns Hopkins All Children’s frequently breaks the mold.

Here, fun and play are highly encouraged.

“Every morning, the boys would wake up and one of them would knock on the other’s door,” Michelle says. “They’d ask, ‘Can you come out and play?’”

The boys would take over the play room, which was filled with toys and games, or they would commandeer tricycles and tear down the hall, turning the cancer floor into their own temporary speedway.

Mostly, they were there for each other in hard times—on the days they didn’t feel like playing.

“They could relate to each other,”

Michelle says. “If one was not feeling well, the other understood.”

Finally, the day came when Bjorn could ring the ceremonial bell to symbolize the end of his cancer treatment.

“The staff even came in on their day off to see him ring the bell,” Per says. “The doctors and nurses clearly care. They were phenomenal.”

Ryan’s leukemia cells required a bone marrow transplant. He powered through it like a champ. “He’s come so far,” Michelle says. “I’m so grateful for everyone on the oncology team and the bone marrow transplant team.”

While Ryan continues to receive therapies at Johns Hopkins All Children’s, both boys remain in remission.

Their shared experience has given them a special bond that continues outside of the hospital. They are friends forever.

“I’m extremely grateful to All Children’s,” Per says. “They cured my son.”

Things to Do This

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Scalloping Season

We're dishing on all the details about scalloping in the Tampa Bay Area.

Things to Do With

Now that the big kids are back in school, check out some fun ways to play with toddlers and preschoolers!