FTNAugust202613-24 by Family Time News

YOUR FITNESS, SPORTS AND RECREATION NEWS

YFSN

In the July issue, readers were left with this cliffhanger...

Countryside Majors, who won their first title in 43 years last year, would face Clearwater in a win-or-go-home game to continue their shot at a repeat.

At press time, the game was rained out, so as it is said, we told you to stay tuned!

Clearwater and Countryside, both teams rested after the rain out, squared off with the winner going to the championship game. The teams played close with every pitch, producing anxiety in the stands.

At the end of the day, Countryside would have to wait at least another year for the elusive second title, as Clearwater out-lasted Countryside with a 4-2 victory.

Clearwater’s run would end just 24 hours later, as a powerful Holiday team’s bats erupted for seven runs en route to a 7-3 victory and the District 12 title.

Holiday would win their first game at Sectionals 6-1 over Shady Hills but were eliminated by the eventual champion, Keystone 11-2.

The Holiday Majors win the 2026 Little League District 12 Title.

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!

WHAT’S UP IN AUGUST?

CLEARWATER PARKS AND RECREATION (727) 562-4800

DIVE IN MOVIE

Friday, August 7th

6:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Morningside Recreation Complex, 2400 Harn Blvd,

Join us for a family-friendly DiveIn-Movie Night! Float under the stars, relax pool side, or enjoy a swim while a favorite film plays. A fun and memorable evening for all! $2 with rec card or $3 without Pools will be open for those attending the event only!

THE MARKET MARIE

Saturday, August 8th

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.

BACK 2 SCHOOL BASH

Saturday, August 8th

1:00 PM to 4:00 PM

Morningside Recreation Complex, 2400 Harn Blvd,

School’s almost in session, so let’s wrap up summer the right way!

Join us for a laid-back cookout with hot dogs on the grill, splash pad fun, and one last round of sunshine before the first bell rings. Good food. Good friends. Fresh Start. $2 with rec card or $3 without Pools will be open for those attending the event only!

STRETCH AND PLAY: TEAM TRIVIA CHALLENGE

Monday, August 24th

1:00 PM to 2:30 PM

Aging Well Center @ The Long Center, 1501 N. Belcher Road

Exercise your brain through fun challenges about facts, dates and culture. Pre-registration preferred. Space is limited. Pre-registration is recommended for all in-person classes.

To register, call (727) 562-4904

VIRTUAL PROGRAMMING: ZOOM 101

Wednesday, August 26th

9:00 AM to Noon Aging Well Center @ The Long Center, 1501 N. Belcher Road Explore in an individual appointment how to use Zoom. Call to schedule a one-hour appointment. We will guide you step-by-step through any questions or concerns you may have with virtual programs. Must have a computer, tablet or smart phone.

DUNEDIN RECREATION (727)

812-4530

DOWNTOWN MARKET

Saturday, August 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th 09:00 AM to 02:00 PM

Featuring fresh produce, eggs, meats, artisanal cheeses, breads, honey, and baked goods. You can also find other unique items like soaps, candles, plants, delicious 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.

The Dunedin Downtown Market is presented by Tampa Bay Markets.

John R. Lawrence Pioneer Park, 420 Main Street Info Call 727-298-3000

PALM HARBOR RECREATION

(727) 771-6000

ESPORTS GAMING LOUNGE

This space helps gamers develop Esports skills and allow participants to socialize with like-minded competitors and make new friends in high energy environment. Open Monday-Thursday from 5 pm-8 pm.

FREE

Ages 5+

(A parent/guardian in the Centre must accompany children under 10)

SEMINOLE RECREATION

(727) 391-8345

YOUTH COACH

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Seminole Recreation needs volunteer coaches. There is no experience required, just a desire to see kids having fun!

All volunteer coaches will receive a 50% credit towards another season of youth sports! Any team without a coach will be disbanded and refunds given. A background check is required All training and materials are provided Call 727-391-8345 if you can help or know of someone suitable who may be interested.

BASKETBALL SKILLS & DRILLS

This program is designed to help young athletes develop and elevate their game in a fun, structured and supportive environment. Participants will work on key aspects of basketball, including ball handling, shooting technique, proper form, footwork and overall game IQ. Through a combination of skill-based drills, small sided games and real-game scenarios, players will gain confidence, improve decision-making and learn how to perform effectively on the court.

Beginner & Intermediate Ages 6-12

Wednesdays, 5:30pm-7:00pm Advanced, Ages 13-16

Wednesdays, 7:00pm-8:30pm

$80.00 Members

$120.00 Non-Members For More Info Call 727-391-8345

MEMORY LANE SENIOR SOCIAL

Take a stroll down memory lane! Join us for lunch with old friends and new as you share stories, favorite memories, and tales of adventures, vacations, and more. Bring a side dish to share. Monday, August 10th 12pm

FREE Members / $5 NonMembers (per social) Pre-registration is preferred

IMAGINE MUSEUM GLASS MASTERS TOUR & LUNCH

Join fellow active adults for a day trip to the Imagine Museum in St. Petersburg. This museum showcases major works of contemporary American and International leading artists in the field of studio glass art. Thursday, August 27 9:15am – 1pm (Bus, tour & lunch) Lunch is not included in the price of this trip. Expect heavy walking.

$22 Members / $33 Non-Members Non-members may register two weeks before the trip.

YOUTH CROSS COUNTRY

Learn to run in a fun, gamefilled environment while building endurance, confidence, and teamwork. Participants can also experience friendly competition through optional travel meets held throughout Pinellas County.

Practices and meets are held on Wednesdays. Events include Quarter Mile, Half Mile, and Mile.

Ages 5 - 14

Wednesdays, 6pm - 6:45pm

August 19 - October 14

$60 Members / $90 Non-Members

FALL 2026

AQUATIC CENTER HOURS

August 10th - September 30th

Open Swim

Monday- Thursday

4:30pm - 8pm

Friday, 2:30pm - 8pm

Saturday, 10am - 2pm Lap Swim

Saturday, 8am - 10am Two lanes are always open for lap and fitness swimming during Open Swim. The Activity Pool is open during the Open Swim hours.

LARGO RECREATION

727-587-6720

LARGO CENTRAL PARK TRAIN RIDES

Sunday, August 1st

Sunday, September 6th

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

Save some time and fill out the waiver online. (Note that this resets each day, so please only fill it out just before you arrive).

THE LARGO EVENING MARKET

Saturday August 22nd

Join them 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. There will be food trucks onsite for purchase. Please email

TheLargoEveningMarket@ gmail.com for vendor inquires for this market.

CONCERT SERIES ON THE BREEZEWAY

Friday, Aug 21st

The Smartest Monkeys 313 Tacos and Tamales 6:00p-9:00p

Largo Golf Course

FREE admission (Food & beverages available for sale)

Mark your calendars for a night of live music, delicious bites, and good vibes at the Concert Series on the Breezeway! Thank you to our sponsors Optimum Healthcare, Simply Healthcare and Dedicated Senior Medical Center.

GLOW WIFFLEBALL TOURNAMENT

Saturday August 29th

2pm @ the Southwest Recreation Complex

Ages: 14+ to adults

Cost: $20 per team of 4-5 players Must pre-register by Aug 21st

Join us for a fun and energetic Glow in the Dark Wiffle Ball Tournament aimed for ages 14 to adults.. Players of all skill levels are welcome to enjoy Astroball in a unique blacklight environment where the courts, balls and players glow. Must register in person at Southwest Recreation by August 21st. Call 727-518-3125 or email Crees@ largo.com for any questions.

GULFPORT RECREATION (727)893-1068

TEEN NIGHT

Monday, Wednesday and Friday. 6pm - 9pm At the Michael J. Yakes Recreation Complex and Gulfport Recreation Center 5730 Shore Blvd. S. The Teen Night Program is a great opportunity for teens in grades 6-12 to enjoy recreational and social activities with peers their age. It offers field trips, cooking projects, guest speakers and service projects. There is a gymnasium, game room and outdoor area that the teens can use.

For Teen Night Community Service Project and Teen Night Registration Form contact, Jami Rowell, Recreation Coordinator at jrowell@mygulfport.us Gymnasium and game room activities, monthly field trips & cooking projects. For More Info Call (727) 893-1068

GULFPORT TEEN COUNCIL

The Gulfport Teen Council makes recommendations to the City Council on equipment needs and budgetary onsiderations for the city’s parks and rec programs; provides recommendations and assistance with youth events for city-sponsored festivals & programs; organizes and performs service projects which benefit the Gulfport community; holds and/or participates in fundraisers within the city in support of the Teen Council. If interested in joining Teen Council, please email Marivel Gutierrez at mgutierrez@ mygulfport.us or visit the Gulfport Recreation Center located at 5730 Shore Blvd. S. for an application.

TARPON SPRINGS RECREATION

727-942-5628

SUNSET BEACH

CONCERT SERIES

Thursday, August 6th @7pm

Sunset Beach, 1800 Gulf Road

Brought to you by the City of Tarpon Springs & AdventHealth North Pinellas. Concerts are on the 1st Thursday of the month (FebNov) & start at 7 pm. In the event of inclement weather and the concert is canceled before the start time, the concert will be the following Thursday. Concessions available for purchase. Alcohol & pets prohibited. Parking limited onsite, so courtesy shuttle will deliver concertgoers

to and from the beach and Tarpon Springs High School. FREE!!

MUSIC & MOVEMENT

TUESDAYS

Craig Park Rec Center

5 Beerkman Lane

Designed for ages 1 to 5, this class keeps children active and engaged in a musical atmosphere. Tuesdays at 10am

$15 per class or $60 for a 5/ class punch pass

TAE KWON DO

Craig Park Rec Center

5 Beerkman Lane

Rise in the belts as you learn from an instructor with over 20 years of experience in martial arts. Thursdays at 6pm (ages 5 to 17)

$45 per month with pass or $50 per month without pass

CREATION STATION

THURSDAYS

Craig Park Rec Center

5 Beerkman Lane

This weekly child-led art class will allow the imagination to soar while getting messy. Thursdays, ages 1 to 5, at 10am

$15 per class or $60 for a 5/ class punch pass

GOLF CLINICS

Tarpon Springs Golf Course

The clinics are educational, fun and are designed to make the kids become lifelong golfers! Students will alternate between full swing on the range, short game skills, and putting practice games and drills. With the use of video analysis software, participants will see the progress of their own

swing throughout the summer. Tuesdays, 9:30 to 11am August 4th &11th Ages 7-16

$45 per clinic (each day)

VOLLEYBALL (INSTRUCTIONAL)

Community Center Gymnasium

400 S Walton Avenue

Skill development clinics to improve your game. Wednesdays at 7pm, Ages 10 to 17 August 12 to September 30

$75 per session with pass or $90 per session without pass

VOLLEYBALL PLAY & LEARN

Monday, August 10, 2026 (Ages 8-17)

Cypress Forest Recreation Center

650 Pine Ave N. Join the fun with our volleyball play and learn class! Learn new skills and strategies while playing and having a great time. Our experienced instructor will guide you through drills and games to improve your technique. Perfect for those that can serve the ball continuously over the net. Sign up now for a fun and active learning experience! $35 per month (RC) $52.50 (WO)

OPAL THEATER

Monday, August 17th, Ages 8+

TECO Hall, Public Library

400 St. Peter Drive E, explore the art of musical theater for all levels. $90 per month (RC) $135 (WO

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 A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN

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

THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL A THINKTANK THEATER PRODUCTION

based on the series by Stephen Hillenburg book by Kyle Jarrow musical production conceived by Tina Landau August 14th - 23rd

Wednesdays and Sundays, 2:00 pm Thursdays, 7:00 pm

Fridays and Saturdays, 8:00 pm

JOBSITE

THE RESIDENT THEATRE COMPANY AT THE STRAZ CENTER

AMERICAN IDIOT

Book by Billie Joe Armstrong and Michael Mayer Closes August 9th

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 SEPTEMBER

JANE AUSTEN IN 89 MINUTES

Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo (727) 587-6793 COMING IN SEPTEMBER COME FROM AWAY

SENIOR MUSINGS

If you are reading the August issue of Family Time News, that means it is actually out on the street and that, my friend, is a miracle.

The reason I say this? During the third week of July, we had our six year old grandchild visiting for a week. One week, that’s just seven days, 168 hours... just a flash in the pan, a moment in time... a piece of cake.

Come on now, how tough can that be, after all, we raised three sons (of course we were 40 some years younger back then), and yes, we have the gray hair to prove it, but one little six year old boy between the two of us... how hard could that be?

Well, it appears that, much like the power of a wave that grows in strength exponentially as the wave gets bigger, people’s energy levels DECREASE EXPONENTIALLY as they age.

At the end of the first day I felt

like I had gone twelve rounds with Manny Pacquiao and it was only the end of round one! As night time approached, I was sure my little Energizer Bunny of a grandson would be plum tuckered out. But, as I glanced around the room, I saw him, bright eyed in a bathing suit, towel in hand, uttering two dreaded words... Night Swimming!

With the expression of a doomed man, I dutifully switched on the pool light and descended into the aqua blue abyss with limited resolve that I would not succumb to a watery demise. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the ‘lil whippersnapper dragged his water soaked butt back into the house, and like turning off a switch, it was Good Night Granddaddy, I love you... and he was out like a light.

The week went pretty much the same, as day by day, my energy was sapped earlier and earlier and each night I would collapse into a puddle of blissful exhaustion. Even the dogs looked wasted.

When it was time to drive my ‘lil buddy home, I was welcoming the forthcoming peace and quiet as well as the much needed rest. But as I waved goodbye, I was thinking... well, Christmas vacation is right around the corner.

‘til next month, thenThe Senior Muser‘‘

ORGANIC FIT KIDS CHILDREN’S WELLNESS PROGRAM

As Americans have grown fatter over the last generation, children are becoming more obese. There has been an increase in heart disease, diabetes and premature death. Good health starts with nutritious healthy foods plus exercise, two of the things lacking from the lives of many children and parents.

Organic Fit Kids and Project Drug Free Children were created in 2010 with the purpose of teaching children, parents and teachers the benefits of healthy eating, exercise and drug prevention education.

It’s a lot easier to help children or teens before they get on drugs or alcohol than after the fact. Our seminar, “How to Raise Drug Free Children,” provides practical information parents and teachers can use to help children and teens live a drug and alcohol free life.

Organic Fit Kids will come to your school, church, organization or company and conduct seminars on:

• Healthy Eating, Why It’s More Important Now Than Ever Before

• The Benefits of Exercising

• Drug Prevention Education

• How to Raise Drug Free Children

• Understanding Emotions, Learn How to Get High on Yourself

• Anti-Bullying

• Personal Values and Integrity

For more information or to arrange for a seminar at your location, please call 1 800 690-8867, text 727-698-9322 or email organicfitkids@europe.com

You may also visit our website organicfitkids.com