FTNAugust202513-24 by Family Time News

WhenSENIORMUSINGS

I was a kid, like a lot of guys, I loved muscle cars and I had my share... a 1967 GTO, a 1969 Mustang fastback and a ‘67 Camaro.

Those were the days of big fat tires and chrome mag wheels, banging gears to the sound of those throaty glass packs ...

The other day, I pulled up to a light next to one of the new Camaros.

It was really sharp with great lines and that classic muscle car look. I was reminded of all those good times and took a ride in my mind down memory lane. While I waited for the light to change, a different thought came into my head.

As I surveyed the sleek lines of the car, I noticed that the windows were quite small and I thought, “Well, it seems my vision would be obstructed by that limited view rear window and how would I be able to hear over those glass packs? Alas, my senior citizen reality overcame my youthful exuberance.

I have already eliminated parallel parking from my driving repertoire as my depth perception took a dive

years ago. Let’s face it. The only time I utilize the power of my 4.6 liter V8 engine is when I am merging into traffic on the highway, and only during the day, a bright sunny day. Don’t even get me started on driving at night!

So, as the light turned green, and that Camaro made a screeching left turn, I cruised straight ahead in my cushy, red Cadillac.

“Cause these days, it appears I am built for comfort, not for speed. That’s sounds like a good title for a blues tune. Da da de dum.

‘til next month, thenThe Senior Muser

MOM AND DAD, TIPS TO GET READY EXCELLENT ADVICE FROM A RETIRED TEACHER...

By Retired Preschool Director Trish Mullins

The dog days of summer may bring oppressive humidity but they also bring the start of the school year. The 2nd week of August will mean the start of school for many children across the state of Florida. As a teacher, it means wrapping up what felt like a too short summer and preparing for another school year. For parents it might mean a nice respite from children clamoring for attention and exclamations of “I’m bored!” or even feelings of loss, loneliness and separation from their child. For children it may mean mixed feelings of joy of old friends, the anxiety of a new environment and the excitement over a new backpack. Whether teacher, student or parent, each must begin to prepare long before the first day of school.

Preparation for a new school year for a teacher begins long before the first day of summer vacation. Educators participate in ongoing education and professional development that keep them up to date on new methods of teaching and helping to hone skills that may need sharpened. Some teachers work on classroom management skills. Others are looking for ways to reach children who need additional support in literacy. Still others need help in appropriately managing challenging behaviors. Teachers also need to refresh and renew the joy of teaching and learning. Preparation extends beyond the physical environment of the classroom and into the heart, mind and soul of the teacher who is the most influential part of the classroom.

While teachers are preparing for the start of the school year, parents and children can take steps to ensure a successful start as well. When I was a child, my mother had my brothers and I practice school. This meant two weeks before school started, our mother would reinstate school year bedtimes. In the morning she would wake us up and we would perform all our “getting ready for the school day” routines. We would even have to time our walk to the bus. As a child, I bemoaned this yearly routine and swore I would never suffer my children this horrific fate. However, as

an adult, I now look back and I am thankful that my mother instilled this trait in me and I passed it on to my own daughters. As an educator, I see the value as well. Here are some helpful tips that will help parents and children get ready for the school year.

1. Let your child know what to expect. This is especially important if your child is going to school for the first time or to a new school. Go

to the school. Take a tour with your child. Visit important places in the school like the location of the restrooms and the playground. Discuss what the day will look like from beginning to end.

2. Familiarize yourself and your child about behavioral expectations. Each school is different and may have different requirements for behavior. You and your child should be aware of what is expected. It is also important to let your child be aware of your personal expectations of behavior. If you do not agree with a school rule, ask the teacher or

administration for more clarification of the rule and why it is in existence. Keep in mind if you break school rules or allow your child to break school rules than you are teaching your child that rules are not important.

3. Work with your child’s teacher. You are a team!

This does not mean you must agree with everything the teacher says or does. Keep communication open and honest. Refrain from “bad mouthing” the teacher in front of your child. If it is evident that you do not respect your child’s teacher, than your child will not respect the teacher. Even if you do not respect the person, respect the position.

4. Be involved!

Volunteer your time either in or out of the classroom. Participate in conferences. Learn about how your child learns and what your child learns. Ask your child questions about the school day. Extend their learning outside of the classroom. Remember, you are your child’s first teacher.

5. Practice school routines.

Help your child be prepared and alert on the first day by setting a realistic school routine prior to the night before school starts. Children need a good night’s rest, physical activity and a healthy diet to be successful in school. Set a morning routine and practice it. Prepare and plan a place for homework. Ensure your child has all the tools needed to be successful both in school and at home for homework.

6. This last tip is just for parents, coordinate a Boo Hoo/ Yahoo Breakfast. This is a great opportunity to celebrate and commiserate with fellow parents the start of the school year. Not to mention the opportunity to get to know other parents.

School is right around the corner. It is time to get ready. The preparation of teachers, parents and students can set the tone of the school year prior to the first day. It is up to you!

YOUR FITNESS, SPORTS AND RECREATION NEWS

YFSN

Countryside’s Magical Season Ends in Safety Harbor

Countryside Little League waited 43 years to win a District 12 Majors title when they beat Safety Harbor Little league 2-1 in the championship game. Their unpresedanted run continued as they advanced to the next step in the Road To Williamport, the Section 7 Tournament.

They would not have to travel far as the host for Section 7 this year was the club they beat for the title, Safety Harbor.

Three teams battled for the right to play for the Florida State Championship, Bayshore, Central Citrus and Countryside.

Countryside opened the tournament

playing powerhouse Bayshore and were overwhelmed as they were blanked 13-0. Later on Saturday, the Counyryside Boys erupted for 17 runs as they took apart Central Citrus 17-7, leaving their fate in the hands of the aforementioned Central Citrus.

At 2:45 pm the Countryside hopefuls gathered in the stands as Bayshore took on Central Citrus. Bayshore came out fast and never took their foot off the gas as they

pummeled Central Citrus 26-0 to earn a spot in the Florida Sate Championships.

Despite their run ending, Countryside had a win and earned individual accolades as four Countryside players; Paxton Burich, Rocco Scalabrino, Lucien Davis and Max Dominie were named as “Players to Watch” by Tap In Sports.

Countryside President, Kristin Thomas, with 12U Manager and CSLL VP, Nick Scalabrino proudly displaying their championship banner.

WHAT’S UP IN AUGUST?

CLEARWATER PARKS AND RECREATION

(727) 562-4800

THE MARKET MARIE

Saturday, August 9th

10:00 AM to 2:00 PM 710 Court Street, Downtown Clearwater

Shop local at The Market Marie with over 85 small business owners every second Saturday in Downtown Clearwater.

Enjoy live music, delicious food, art, clothing, jewelry, henna, handmade candles, soap, pet treats, home goods and more. Event is located next to the City of Clearwater Municipal Svcs Bldg,

Parking is FREE and can be found throughout downtown. The closest parking garage is the city employee parking garage located diagonally from the field. The garage is FREE on the weekends.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY AT MOCCASIN LAKE

Saturday, August 9th

8:00 AM to 10:00 AM

Help pull invasive plants from the beautiful grounds at Moccasin Lake Nature Park to make room for healthy, native plants to grow!

Supplies are provided, but feel free to bring your own gloves and gardening tools if you have them. Moccasin Lake Nature Park, 2750 Park Trail Ln, Clearwater

For More Info Call (727) 562-4315

MORNINGSIDE DIVE-IN MOVIE SERIES

Friday, August 8th

6:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Join Morningside Recreation Center for our monthly dive-in movie series. Each month we will play a fun movie by the pool

Cost $2 with recreation card, $3 without a recreation card..

For More Info Call (727) 562-4280

FREE MORNING YOGA

Coachman Park, 300 Cleveland Street Clearwater

Saturdays at 8 a.m. FREE fitness class hosted by the Clearwater Y In Motion. Physical and mental well-being through mastery of the body, is achieved

through exercise, holding postures, proper breathing and meditation. For More Info Contact the YMCA Suncoast (727) 461-9622

THIRD FRIDAYS AT THE LONG CENTER

Friday, August 15th 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Join the Long Center for our monthly parent’s night out! Drop your kids off for a fun night of pizza, games, and excitement. For children in Kindergarten through 8th grade. Please register by the Thursday before the event. Cost $10 with recreation card, $11 without a recreation card.

For More Info Call (727) 562-4905

NORTH GREENWOOD MOONLIGHT SWIM

Friday, August 8th 8:00 PM to 11:00PM Dive into the night! Join us for

Moonlight Swims every Friday at Ross Norton or North Greenwood Aquatic Centers. Check the schedule for the location each week, then come swim under the stars and make a splash! Admission is $3. A Rec Card is not required to attend. No registration necessary..

For More Info Call (727) 562-4380

MORNINGSIDE BACK TO SCHOOL BASH

Saturday, August 9th

1:00 PM to 4:00PM

Celebrate the end of summer and the beginning of an exciting new school year with our Back to School Bash! Bring your friends and family to enjoy our three pools with music and a cook out! $2 (W) / $3 (W/O) per person First come first served - spaces are limited for event!

For More Info Call (727) 562-4590

ROSS NORTON BACKPACK GIVEAWAY

Friday,August 1st 2:30 PM to 4:30PM

Join us for a FREE backpack giveaway and Back to School Bash at Ross Norton Recreation Center on July 26 from 2:30 to 4:30. Child must be present to receive a backpack. Games and refreshments will be available.

For More Info Call (727) 562-4380

DUNEDIN RECREATION (727) 812-4530

THE DUNEDIN DOWNTOWN MARKET

Fridays and Saturdays in August, 9:00am - 2:00pm

John R. Lawrence Pioneer Park

Features fresh produce, eggs, meats, artisan cheeses, breads, honey, and baked goods.

You can also find other unique items like soaps, candles, plants, lunch bites and more. As you shop and browse, you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and live music performances that add to the charm of the market.

MIDNITE MADNESS

Friday August 29th

7:00 pm - 11:59 pm

MLK Recreation Ctr.

550 Laura Lane Dunedin, FL, 34698

Skate and play ‘til midnight and test your skills on extreme inflatables, mobile gaming and laser tag. The fun also includes mini skate jams, music, giveaways and a snack food buffet. Presented by Dunedin Parks & Recreation and hosted by the Youth Advisory Committee. This event requires the Family Comprehensive waiver to be put in the cart first if one has not already been done this year. $20 Pre-Register

$25 Day of Event

Parents, please note that children must be picked up at the end of the event; no child will be permitted to walk home. All skaters must have a waiver on file and wear helmet, elbow and knee pads.

For More Info Call (727)738-2920

SEMINOLE RECREATION (727) 391-8345

THE 28TH ANNUAL MUSIC IN THE PARK CONCERT SERIES

Fridays, 7:00pm-9:00pm

Starting in September

@ The Seminole City Park 7464 Ridge Road

Fridays, September 12th, 19th, 26th

October 3rd, 10th 7pm – 9pm

FREE to attend / $3 Event

Parking per vehicle (Main Parking Lot & Repetto’s Lot)

o We recommend bringing your own chairs or blankets.

o We discourage coolers.

o Outside alcohol is prohibited.

NEW THIS YEAR:

o Parking Decal (5 concerts) sold for $10 is Pre-Purchase ONLY (must be done in person at the Seminole Recreation Center).

o Each concert will be themed (food and intermission activities) to match the genre being played. Feel free to dress up to join in on the fun.

MUSICAL PERFORMANCES

Sept. 12 -- Chris Robert Band / Country Sept. 19 -- Smooth D and

the Boyz / Funk Soul Sept. 26 -- Whiskey Throttle / Rock

Theme is Rock Into Halloween featuring 8-10 craft vendors selling Autumn & Halloween items. A sponsor will give away pumpkins (while supplies lasts). Oct. 3 -- Point 6 / Latin Pop Oct. 10 -- Risky Business / 80s

FOOD/DRINKS

Concessions available for purchase by Fire Union - Cash Only Please Alcohol will be available for purchase by Seminole Recreation Vendors (weeks 1-5): A Bees Place and Rita’s Italian Ice Vendor (week 1): Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Thank You to our Community

WONKA KIDS! Step into a world of pure imagination... This sweet & silly musical is perfect for young performers who want to sing, dance, act & have a blast on stage. Join Willy Wonka, Charlie, the Oompa Loompas & all the colorful characters as we bring the chocolate factory to life.

Ages 4-10 • No Experience Needed Rehearsals begin Aug 19th • See Website for Performance Dates

FINDING NEMO KIDS! Sign-ups are open for this splashy, 30-minute musical adventure perfect for young performers who are ready to shine under the sea!

Ages 4-10 • No Experience Needed Rehearsals begin Aug 19th Performance March 28th

BEAUTY & THE BEAST JR “Tale as old as time...” and now it’s YOUR time to shine! If you’re ready to take the stage with strong vocals, bold characters & big ensemble moments, this is the show for YOU!

Ages 10-18 • 3+ Yrs Recommended Rehearsals begin Aug 19th Performances April 17th & 18th

Partners & Event Sponsors:

o Presenting Sponsor:

NexGenEsis Healthcare

o Community Partners Include: All Smiles Orthodontics, Animal Hospital of Seminole, Calvary Church

o Sponsors Include: Bay Dermatology, Premier Martial Arts, Re/Max

Interested in being a Sponsor or Vendor? Contact the Seminole Recreation Department at 727-391-8345.

WE DO NOT HAVE ONLINE REGISTRATION AND WILL NEVER ASK FOR YOUR PAYMENT INFORMATION ONLINE OR OVER THE PHONE.

Payments can only be submitted in person or sent by mail. Stay Safe!

LARGO RECREATION

727-586-7455

LARGO CENTRAL PARK TRAIN RIDES

Saturday and Sunday

August 2nd & 3rd

September 6th & 7th 10am-4pm (Saturday) 10am-1pm (Sunday)

miniature railroad on the first full weekend of the month. The accurately modeled scale locomotives pull you and your family along a mile-long loop through great scenery, the spooky tunnel, and our waterfall pond.

Fun for all ages!

There is NO CHARGE for this family-fun activity, but donations are welcome. Your contributions keep the trains running!

CONCERT SERIES ON THE BREEZEWAY

Friday, August 15th

6:00-9:00pm

Music by The Guilty Pleasure | Food Truck: Divino’s Tacos Mark your calendars for a night of live music, delicious bites, and good vibes at the Concert Series on the Breezeway!

No memberships needed –everyone is welcome to groove to the tunes, indulge in great food from food trucks, and sip on refreshing drinks from the bar. Bring your friends and family for a laid-back night under the stars!

For more information, please call 727-518-3024

OLDSMAR RECREATION (813)749-1100

ADULT OPEN HOCKEY

Monday & Thursdays in August (Ages 16 & Up) 6:00pm - 8:30pm

Oldsmar Sports ComplexOutdoor Hockey Rink 3120 Tampa Road Games are organized by participants and teams are picked at random. Bring a light and dark shirt. All skill levels are welcome.

THE LARGO EVENING MARKET

Saturday, August 23rd

Largo Central Park is located at 101 Central Park Drive. Train rides can be accessed via the tan-roofed shelter on the east side of the park.

Join us for a ride around beautiful Largo Central Park on our

Join us on the 4th Saturday of the month and wander through different tents adorned with artisanal goods, from handmade jewelry to organic produce, all while enjoying the music from local musicians.

Note: Participants must provide their own sticks, balls and protective gear. Program available except during clinics & camps. For More Info Call 813-749-1152

SATURDAY MARKET

Saturdays in August 9:00am - 1:00pm City Hall-East Lot

100 State Street West Presented by the Upper Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce

Support local vendors while enjoying fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious food. Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts, fresh ingredients or just looking for a fun way to spend your Saturday, the Oldsmar Saturday Market has something for everyone.

Arts & Crafts

Fresh Baked Goods

Farm-Fresh Produce

Local Boutiques & More!

For More Info Call 813-855-4233

AUGUST CURTAIN CALLS

AMERICAN STAGE

RAYMOND JAMES THEATRE 163 3rd Street North in the heart of downtown St. Petersburg. (727) 823-PLAY (7529)

COMING IN SEPTEMBER THE GOOD PEACHES

September 20th only Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evening curtain is at 7:30pm

Friday and Saturday evening curtain is at 8 pm

Saturday and Sunday matinee curtain is at 3 pm

FREEFALL THEATRE

6099 Central Avenue

St. Petersburg 727-498-5205

COMING IN SEPTEMBER

TELL ME ON A SUNDAY

JOBSITE

THE

THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (ABRIDGED) [REVISED] [AGAIN] by Adam Long, Daniel Singer & Jess Winfield August13th - 25th

jobsitetheater.org

For tickets go to tickets@jobsitetheater.org or call the Straz Center Box Office at 813.229.STAR

STAGEWORKS

1120 E Kennedy Blvd Tampa 813-251-8984 COMING IN OCTOBER

Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo (727) 587-6793 YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN Book, Music, & Lyrics by Clark Gesner August 8th - 17th

No Appointment Necessary

IMMEDIATE, CONVENIENT, FAST SERVICE (727) 441-5044

Need medical care?

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Come in and see us now.

We take the time to listen to you, to accurately diagnose your illnesses or injuries and ensure prompt treatment. Our friendly staff is genuinely interested in caring for your health and well being and want to ensure your experience exceeds your expectations.

Come in and see us now.

Come

No Appointment Necessary

Necessary

No Appointment Necessary

IMMEDIATE, CONVENIENT, FAST SERVICE (727) 441-5044

No Appointment Necessary IMMEDIATE, CONVENIENT, FAST

IMMEDIATE, CONVENIENT, FAST SERVICE (727) 441-5044

We take the time to listen to you,

Saturday & Sunday 9am to 6 pm

Monday-Friday 8am to 8pm Saturday & Sunday 9am to 6 pm

Monday-Friday 8am to 8pm

Monday-Friday 8am to 8pm Saturday & Sunday 9am to 6 pm

Saturday & Sunday 9am to 6 pm

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Adult, Pediatric and Women’s Care

Need medical care?

Colds, Flu, Bronchitis, Ear Infections...

Adult, Pediatric and Women’s Care

Come in and see us now.

Injuries, Sprains, Breaks, Stitches Treated on Site!

Colds, Flu, Bronchitis, Ear Infections...

Adult, Pediatric and Women’s Care

Colds, Flu, Bronchitis, Ear Infections...

Ear Infections...

No Appointment Necessary

Colds, Flu, Bronchitis, Ear Infections...

Injuries, Sprains, Breaks, Stitches Treated on Site!