2025 Summer Camp Special Section

EXCITING NEW CAMPS PROVIDE FUN ACTIVITIES TO KEEP KIDS ACTIVE AND ENGAGED THIS SUMMER Spring is almost here, and summer is just around the corner. That means it’s time to start signing up for exciting summer camps offering MATHNASIUM everything from 5 GH HI learning experiences to outdoor fun, pertrips and themed weeks, with both forming arts and more. The Osprey half-day and full-day options. EasterObserver team has rounded up the seals School for Limitless Learning best local summer camps and put toprovides specialized camps for neurogether a special pullout section with diverse families, offering an inclusive top recommendations for this season. and engaging environment.

Whether your child is into music, theIf your child loves the outdoors, Cirater, sports, coding or outdoor advencle F Dude Ranch, Cedarkirk Camp & tures, there’s something for every inConference Center and Busch Garterest and age group. dens offer traditional summer camp Got a budding performer in the famexperiences, with overnight options ily? Music Showcase allows kids ages available. Brandon’s High 5 Inc. has 5 and up to shine in musicals hosted a thrilling summer lined up, including by the Florida Academy of Performsafaris and exciting field trips. The loing Arts. The Straz Center’s Patel cal YMCAs — Campo Family YMCA Conservatory also offers a variety of in Valrico, North Brandon Family arts programs, including dance, theYMCA in Seffner, Spurlino Famiater and music, with over 50 camps ly YMCA in Riverview and YMCA and classes to choose from.

Camp Cristina in Riverview — feaFor a fun, active summer, 5th Diture camps that mix fun with valuable mension Dance Center features field learning opportunities.

April 27

10am to 4pm

RSVP Learn more about the day, and let us know you’re coming.

and registration information for all of these camps — check out our special section and start planning YMCA your child’s best BUSCH GARDENS summer yet!

And don’t Sports enthusiasts can level up at forget to enter our Summer Camp Buckhorn Springs Racquet & Pool Sweepstakes! The Osprey Observer Club’s specialty camps or join Tampa will cover the cost of a week at the Dynamo FC for soccer training. summer camp of your choice. Simply Kinovo School, a newcomer to the email us with the subject line “Sumcommunity, is offering camps at four mer Camp Free” at contest@oslocal locations this summer. preyobserver.com to enter. Think we For martial arts, Sidekicks Martial missed a fantastic camp? Let us know Arts Camp teaches kids self-defense, by emailing us at editor@ospreyobdiscipline and provides plenty of fun server.com. With so many exciting while staying active. Kids ‘R’ Kids Cirsummer camp options, get ready for a ca FishHawk offers both full and halffun and unforgettable summer 2025! day camps, with weekly field trips and exciting themes for kids of all ages.

To keep their minds sharp, Mathnasium offers summer learning opportunities, while Skill Samurai and Code Wiz host coding, robotics and gaming camps, with options for all experience levels in Roblox, Minecraft and more.

For full details — including dates

Page 30

HIGH 5 INC. LAUNCHES SUMMER CAMP SAFARI FOR CAMPERS

Staff Report

High 5 Inc. is gearing up for its highly anticipated annual summer camp, set to begin on Tuesday, June 2, and run through Friday, August 8. This year’s exciting theme, Summer Camp Safari, will feature a blend of indoor and outdoor activities, along with fun-filled field trips.

“Our goal is to inspire young athletes, foster teamwork and promote a love for physical activity,” said Jada Spano, vice president of operations. “This summer camp offers a dynamic environment for children to stay active and develop new skills.”

Campers can enjoy a flexible schedule with drop-off starting at 7 a.m. and pickup running until 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. The camp costs $165 per week.

Participants are asked to bring their own snacks, lunch, a change of clothes and a towel. Swimsuits and closed-toed shoes are required daily.

Throughout the camp, children will have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of sports and activities.

“Our skilled and dedicated coaches will guide campers through training sessions, teaching fundamental sports skills and

PAGE Volume 22, Issue 3

Valrico Edition

helping them enhance their techniques,” Spano said.

The camp will maintain a low student-to-teacher ratio, with approximately 25 students per instructor. In addition to sports, campers will engage in creative crafts, such as making banners to showcase their personal values. Teamwork and sportsmanship will be emphasized as campers work together toward common goals and cheer each other on.

Daily activities include options like swimming and diving, outdoor fields, the playground, the gymnasium, Gamer’s Grotto, arts and crafts and STEM-based projects.

High 5 Inc., a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to promoting after-school programs that support students in learning to swim and providing special education through recreational activities.

Located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon, off State Road 60, High 5 Inc. offers a welcoming environment for campers.

For more information or to register for the summer camp, visit https://high5inc. org/ or call 813-689-0908.

30

DAY CAMPS, RESIDENTIAL CAMPS AND MORE IN STORE AT CEDARKIRK

By Taylor Wells

Cedarkirk is a yearround Presbyterian camp and conference center established in 1971, and it’s gearing up again with plenty of outdoor activities and events for guests and campers on its 170 acres of woodlands, wetlands and uplands.

“Our mission statement is ‘to be a place apart to build up the body of Christ in love.’ … Summer camp is a big part of that, in the sense that we really just want kids to have a place where they can be loved and nurtured and cared for, and grow into the person they were created to be and feel confident doing that,” said Matthew Shick, executive director of Cedarkirk.

From Sunday, June 8, through Friday, August 1, Cedarkirk will host its summer camp programs, which include residential summer camps, the Challenge to Change mission program and the return of its Adventure Day Camps.

At its residential summer camps, campers spend six days and seven nights in family groups — groups of campers with their counselors. It has programs for everyone from first through 12th grade, as well as adult and intergenerational programs.

In the Challenge to Change program, youth groups will spend a week at camp participating in off-site, hands-on missions

with fact-finding opportunities to increase awareness of poverty and social justice issues.

Cedarkirk’s adventure-based, faith-focused day camp is one of its newest programs, first offered last year. Starting on Monday, June 9, campers — current kindergarteners through fifth graders — will be in family groups and have fun playing outside, making friends, growing in their faith and trying out new adventures, like zip-lining, arts and crafts, shark tooth hunting, swimming and so much more. And at $230 a week, Cedarkirk’s day camp is an affordable option.

“I would say the biggest things that have changed in the last couple years … would be the addition of the day camp and then trying to put a greater emphasis on partnerships with organizations and nonprofits that can use this space and help forward their own missions,” said Shick.

And for those new to Cedarkirk, the Spring Fun Day is a great, free opportunity to get to know it. On Saturday, May 10, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., For those who’ve been to Cedarkirk before, the cost is only $16.

Cedarkirk is located at 1920 Streetman Dr. in Lithia, near the Alafia River. Visit https:// cedarkirk.org/ or call 813-685-4224.

Home to more than 12,000 animals and world-class coasters, Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay has camps for both animal lovers and thrill seekers alike.

Day Camp: K-12th Grade Resident Camp: 7th-12th Grade

REGISTER NOW DISCOVER THE

PERFECT SUMMER

BuschGardens.com/camps (813) 884-4FUN (4386)

©2025 United Parks & Resorts, Inc.

March 2025

PAGE Page 31 31

Valrico Edition

MATHNASIUM SUMMER PROGRAM HELPS

DEVELOP CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS

CIRCLE F DUDE RANCH CAMP: A HAVEN FOR YEAR-ROUND ADVENTURE AND SUMMER FUN

Staff Report

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Summer is the perfect time to give your child’s brain a boost. Mathnasium believes that learning math doesn’t have to stop when school’s out. Its summer programs are designed for students from prekindergarten through 12th grade, making sure every child has a chance to build confidence and even enjoy the process of learning.

Mathnasium’s personalized approach ensures that each child gets the right support. Whether your child is in elementary school working on building a strong foundation, a middle schooler looking to catch up or get ahead or a high schooler tackling advanced math, its expert instructors will tailor lessons to fit their needs. Mathnasium helps students not only understand math concepts but also feel more confident when approaching them.

“We offer flexibility that allows your child to learn from wherever you are this summer, whether in-center or virtually,” said Mathnasium owner Becky McDaniels. “It is a joy having the kids join us in the summer to keep their math skills sharp. The kids have a huge opportunity for growth, as they can truly focus on new skills while reviewing prior skills without homework and testing stress.”

Students at Mathnasium will receive a comprehensive assessment and a custom-

Circle F Dude Ranch Camp, a beloved institution located in Lake Wales, is more than just a summer camp.

The ranch was founded in 1952 as a traditional sleepaway summer camp for girls and boys ages 6-16 rooted in a classic dude ranch experience. Owned and operated by Reed Fischbach, the camp offers a year-round haven for adventure and education. Since its inception, Circle F has been a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, school groups and families seeking a unique experience.

During the summer, Circle F becomes a bustling hub of activity, welcoming approximately 200 campers per session. These sessions are evenly split between boys and girls, creating a balanced and inclusive environment. Campers can look forward to a wide array of activities, including horseback riding, waterfront activities, arts, team and individual sports, ax throwing and climbing towers. The ranches activities are designed to build character and foster individual growth through experiences for all the campers.

Fischbach’s passion for running Circle F is evident in his day-to-day interactions with campers. “I enjoy walking the grounds and meeting the campers,” said Fischbach. “It’s always interesting learning about why they love Circle F, and they ask great questions.”

What sets Circle F apart from other camps is its commitment to quality and professionalism. The camp boasts yearround, highly trained professional staff, a pristine private lake and a private herd of over 50 horses.

These elements contribute to the camp’s unique charm and appeal.

Looking ahead to the summer, Fischbach is excited to highlight several new upgrades and improvements.

“We have been upgrading facilities and revamping the riding program with new horses and tack,” he noted.

This dedication to continuous improvement ensures that returning campers and new visitors alike will have an enhanced experience.

As Circle F Dude Ranch Camp prepares to celebrate its 74th summer, Fischbach is eager to share this milestone with the community.

“We operate year-round with outdoor education programs for school groups and group rentals of 50 to 250 people,” said Fischbach. “We’ve had some groups that have been coming for 40 years.”

For more details, visit https://circlefduderanchcamp.com/ or contact the office directly at 863-676-4113. The camp is located at 5301 Dude Ranch Rd. in Lake Wales.

CAMP

ized learning plan that details summer goals for long-term success. Live face-to-face instruction is offered both in-center and virtually.

“Our hope for summer learning is that each child who walks in our door has a better understanding of math and potentially a new or increased love for learning,” McDaniels said. “We ultimately want to help the students avoid the summer slide and walk into their new classroom in the fall being well prepared for the new school year with a boost of confidence and a big smile on their faces.”

Mathnasium knows that summer is all about having fun, which is why it makes math sessions engaging and interactive. For younger kids, it uses hands-on activities and games that make learning feel like playing.

For older students, it challenges them with problems that keep their minds sharp and help them get ready for more advanced work ahead.

Give your child the gift of confidence and growth this summer. The Mathnasium of Brandon center is located at 1048 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Call 813-655MATH (6284) or visit www.mathnasium. com/brandon, where you can also get started and see how “Mathnasium changes lives through math.”

# DYNAM O DYNASTY

TAMPA DYNAMO

SUMMER CAMP

Get ready for an action-packed week of soccer fun at Tampa Dynamo's Summer Camp! Designed for players of all skill levels, our camp focuses on skill development, teamwork, and a passion for the game through engaging small-sided games and activities.

LOCATION Summerfield Sports Complex

DATE June 2nd - 6th

AGES U7 (2019) - U14 (2010)

TIME 8:00am - 11:00am

WHAT TO EXPECT? Age-appropiate traning & skill building

Fun and competitive small-sided games Focus on technique and agility

A positive and supportive environment for all players

Spots are limited! Secure your place today and make this summer one to remember.

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for more information visit www.TampaDynamofc.com

Page 32

Valrico Edition

PAGE Volume 22, Issue 3 32

MARTIAL ARTS, PERFORMANCE, CODING & SLEEP AWAY CAMP

Compiled By Jenny Bennett

The Patel Conservatory With 100 Plus Camps & Classes The Straz Center’s Patel Conservatory offers arts education courses and programs in dance, theater and music, with 100-plus camps and classes available.

Running from Monday, June 2, to Friday, August 1, full and half-day camps are available weekly for ages 3-18. The cost varies depending on the camp; financial aid and scholarships are available. For more information, visit www. patelconservatory.org or call 813-222-1040.

Sidekicks Family Martial Arts Sidekicks Family Martial Arts is excited to announce registration for its Powerful Kids Summer Camp.

This action-packed

camp is open to rising kindergarten through fifth graders and includes daily age and developmentally appropriate martial arts training, a wide range of activities and exciting on-campus field trips. There are options available for the full summer or a flexible Pick Code Wiz Coding & More Your Weeks option. Secure your spot for as Code Wiz, located at 16132 Churchview little as $49 upfront.

Dr., Ste. 105, in Lithia, teaches coding and robotics to children and Tampa Dyna- embraces the Montessori approach mo FC Offers to learning, which means its camps are hands-on, student-driven and Soccer Fun Get ready for designed to foster curiosity and inan action-packed dependence.

Campers are encouraged to exweek of soccer fun plore, problem-solve and create at their at Tamown pace, with guidpa Dynamo FC’s summer camp. ance from coachDesigned for players of all skill es to support their levels, the camp focuses on skill individual learning development, teamwork and journeys. Camps will passion for the game through run throughout the engaging small summer from Monday, sided games June 2, and activities. to Friday, Camp will be August 1, held at the Summerfield Sports Complex in Riverview and are available for mornings, from June 2-6, from 8a.m. afternoons or full days.

Visit its website at https:// until 11a.m. Spots are limited, thecodewiz.com/fishhawk-fl visit wwwTampaDymanofc. com for more information for more information and to register. and to register.

5th Dimension Dance Center Offers Themed Weeks & Field Trips 5th Dimension Dance Center is offering fun-filled, action-packed weeks for kids from ages 3-12 years. There will be daily dance classes, games, arts and crafts and weekly field trips for full-day campers.

There are a wide range of themes, including boogie boogie, superhero, tutus and tiaras.

Visit its website at www.5thdimensiondancecenter. com or call 813-643-5332 for additional information and to register. 5th Dimension Dance Center is located at 3239 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico.

Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center Day & Overnight Camps Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center, located on 170 acres of woodlands, wetlands and uplands near the Alafia River, will have summer camps starting on Sunday, June 8, and finish on Friday, August 1. Campers can sign up

PAGE Page 33 33

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March 2025

STEM, PERFORMING ARTS, DUDE RANCH CAMP & SUMMER SAFARI Compiled By Jenny Bennett for a week or the whole summer. Cedarkirk offers overnight camps for older students which run Sunday through Friday and day camp, and younger campers in grades one through three can attend a shorter threeday camp. Day camp is available for campers who have completed kindergarten up to those who have completed fifth grade and is priced at $230 per week. Day campers must bring their own lunch. Cedarkirk is located at 1920 Streetman Dr. in Lithia and can be reached at 813-685-4224. For more information and to register, visit https:// cedarkirk.org/.

Skill Samurai STEM, Robotics, Game Design & More Are you looking for a one-of-a-kind summer camp that combines fun with future-ready skills? Skill Samurai Summer Camps offer kids ages 7-14 hands-on experiences in coding, robotics, game design and STEM activities. Through engaging, project-based learning, your child will develop critical thinking, creativity and confidence while building real-world tech skills. Whether they’re creating games, programming robots or exploring 3D design, Skill Samurai makes learning exciting. Give your child the ultimate summer adventure — sign up today.

Skill Samurai is located at 931 E. Blooming-

Music Show- one to three-week sleepaway camp sessions. case And Kids range in age from 6-16.

The Florida Of all the summer and overnight camps in Academy Of Florida, there’s only one Circle F Dude Ranch.

If you’re looking for a horseback riding camp Performing near you, then look no further. But that’s not Arts all — Circle F also offers unique Western Fun

dale Ave. in Brandon.

Visit its website at https://skillsamurai. com/fl-brandon.

High 5 Inc. Offers Fun Summer Camp Safari Brandon’s High 5 Inc. is inviting students to embark on an exciting and adventurous journey where your child will experience the thrill of Summer Camp Safari, kicking off on Monday, June 2, and running through Friday, August 8. Daily activities will include pool time, outdoor play, field games, arts and crafts and more, including field trips.

Camp is offered Monday through Friday from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. at High 5 Inc., located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon.

Campers can sign up for individual weeks or throughout the entire summer.

To learn more, visit https://high5inc.org/ or call 813-689-0908.

Music Showcase and the Florida Academy of Performing Arts will host their annual summer camp this summer. The Music and More and Musical Theater camps will immerse campers into acting, singing, dancing and more throughout the summer. In Musical Theater camp, campers will learn to work collaboratively, the art of stage character, voice projection, props and working with a set.

The Music and More camp has full and halfday camps with instrument, art, acting and singing activities. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, visit https://faopa. org/.

Circle F Dude Ranch Circle F Dude Ranch, located in Lake Wales, welcomes boys and girls from all over the United States and the world for

TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU: *Enroll by May 15 and enjoy $100 off f your enrollment fee ff *Osprey Observer

Mathnasium of Brandon 813-655-MATH (6284) mathnasium.com/brandon 1048 E Bloomingdale Av Valrico

Mathnasium of Riverview 813-565-1102 mathnasium.com/riverview 13388 S US Highway 301 Riverview

activities you won’t find anywhere else. Of course, it’s a traditional sleepa w a y camp, so it has all the sports b o y s and girls love, plus extreme adventures, like paintball and skateboarding, and its Alpine Climbing Tower, zip line and high ropes course.

Circle F Dude Ranch has arts and theater, and you know its Florida, so it has excellent water sports too.

How can Circle F be described? It’s Florida’s best, most exciting, kid-friendly dude ranch experience. For details about the camp, https://circlefduderanchcamp.com/

Page 34

PAGE Volume 22, Issue 3

Valrico Edition

34

YMCA, BUSCH GARDENS, KINOVU, NEURODIVERSE CAMP & MORE

Compiled By Jenny Bennett

Easterseals School For Limitless Learning — Inclusive Summer Camp For Neurodiverse Learners Get ready for an exciting and inclusive adventure designed specifically for neurodiverse young learners and those with other disabilities in kindergarten through second grade. Packed with hands-on and interactive STEAM activities, it’s a supportive space where every child can explore, grow and thrive. Each session has a different theme, with topics including such things as Ocean Explorers, where campers dive into the wonders of the deep blue sea, and LEGO Builders, where campers engage in building challenges, teamwork exercises and imaginative play using LEGO bricks. The Easterseals School for Limitless Learning is located at 2460 Bloomingdale Ave., Ste. 170, in Valrico, and the summer camp is avail-

able for eight weeks from Monday, June With over 25 16, to Friday, August 8, with morning, different sumafternoon and all-day sessions available. mer camp options throughout the Tampa YMCA area, New To Area Kinovu School there’s something Offers Four Locations The theme of summer camp at Kinovu for every camper to School is ‘Where Summer Adventure enjoy.

From art and gymMeets Educanastics to zip-lining tion,’ and the goal and splashing in of the educationits pools, the Y is al program at Kinovu School is the ultimate summer destination with to nurture auton- friends, fun and adventure. Summer omous, lifelong camps start on Monday, June 2, and run learners because all summer. Register online at https:// learning auton- tampaymca.org/letscamp. omy has been proven to be a Busch Gardens Offers key determinant Camps For Students of life success. Camps are for all ages and K-12th Grade are available all day from 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

For more than 25 years, BusYour child will explore, learn and grow ch Gardens at Kinovu Tampa Bay School, which has provided is located at children with 3105 Lithia inspiring, exPinecrest Rd. citing and edin Lithia. For ucational experiences more inforthrough some of the mation, visit best Tampa summer https://kinocamp options. There vuschools.com/ or call 813-654-2124. are a wide variety of Summer Day Camp YMCA Summer Camp options to fit your child’s grade level

and interests. One of the reasons to choose Busch Gardens as your summer camp include it being accredited by the American Camping Association, meaning parents can trust that the camp meets high standards for safety, staff training and program quality. Also, campers get to enjoy the adrenaline rush of rides as well as the unique opportunity to meet animals up close. Beyond the fun, camp-

ers experience activities that are both enriching and educational, providing a well-rounded experience. Visit Busch Gardens’ website at www.buschgardens. com for additional information.

CAMP WITH US! With over 25 different camp options throughout the Tampa YMCA area, there’s something for every camper to enjoy! From art and gymnastics to ziplining and splashing in our pools the Y is the ultimate summer destination.

Summer Camp starts June 2nd!

REGISTER ONLINE:

CAMPO FAMILY YMCA 813.684.1371

NORTH BRANDON FAMILY YMCA 813.685.5402

SPURLINO FAMILY YMCA AT BIG BEND ROAD 813.228.9622

tampaymca.org/LETSCAMP » YMCA CAMP CRISTINA 813.677.8400

PAGE Page 35 35

Valrico Edition

March 2025

MATHNASIUM SUMMER, KIDS ‘R’ KIDS, RACQUET CLUB & MORE

Compiled By Jenny Bennett

Kids ‘R’ Kids Offers Wanderlost Summer Camp & Field Fun Field Trips Who’s ready for the ultimate summer adventure? This year, Kids ‘R’ Kids is your passport to fun. Each week, its Wanderlost Summer Camp will whisk your child away to an exciting new destination where they’ll explore fascinating cultures, discover amazing animals and dive into hands-on adventures.

From epic games to creative projects, every day is a new journey of imagination and discovery. Kids ‘R’ Kids is located at 5815 Kids Crossing Dr. in Lithia. Additional information can be found at https:// kidsrkids.com/ or by calling 813-7975497.

Mathnasium Brandon Offers Math Skills There’s no better time for kids to catch up and get ahead in math than during the summer break. Summer at Mathnasium

is a fun and engaging way for your child to keep up their math skills and prepare for the year ahead. It has a proven teaching method that results in true understanding and increased confidence, along with reward opportunities and more.

The Mathnasium of Brandon center is located at 1048 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico.

For more information, visit www. mathnasium. com/brandon or call 813-655MATH (6284).

player? Sign them up for summer camp at Buckhorn Springs Racquet Club, located in Buckhorn Springs Golf & Country Club at 2721 S. Miller Rd. in Valrico. Camps will run all summer from Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-12 Noon, starting Monday, June 2, and ending Thursday, August 7.

Early drop-off is at 8:30 a.m. and late pickup is at 12:30 p.m.

The price per week is $185 with sibling discounts, multiweek discounts and an early-bird discount. Advanced/tournament players have a full-day option, including match play and video analysis. Tennis shoes are required.

Visit www.buckhornracquet.com for more information.

Buckhorn Springs Racquet Club Do you have a budding tennis

coaching experience, Ostingers Baseball coaches are ready to provide young athletes with safe fun this summer.

Four weeklong sessions will take place in June and July for players ages 7-14 years old at the academy’s fields. The camp is priced at $275 per week; multichild and multiweek discounts are available. Your child will develop a better understanding of the game of baseball through instruction, drills and games. Having a good time while learning the fundamentals will be the main focus of this camp.

Ostingers Baseball Academy is located at 8711 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia. To learn more, visit www. ostingbaseball.com or call 813-737-3000.

Ostingers Baseball Academy Learn baseball from the pros at Ostingers Baseball Academy. With a combined 30 years of professional playing and

Music & Theater Summer Camps The Florida Academy of Performing Arts

Music & More Camp

(813) 490-ARTS (2787)

Musical Arts For All Ages

Full and half-day week-long camps, plus daily drop-ins • Free early drop off and late pick up • Activities to explore instruments, acting, singing and art • Themed weeks like: Barbie & Ken, Pixar, Taylor Swift, Superheroes • Scholarships and sibling discounts

Musical Theater Camps CAMPS FILL FAST! Register online at FAOPA.org

Located in Music Showcase Musical instruments, lessons, repairs, and more

• Productions for all ages and skill levels • Elementary, Middle School, and High School productions • Broadway Boot Camp - Broadway Artists To Attend • Visit FAOPA.org for shows, schedules, and performance dates

Past Summer Shows

402 Oakfield Drive, Brandon FL 33511 F l o r i d a A c a d e my o f P e r f o r m i n g A r t s | L o c a t e d i n M u s i c S h o w c a s e

(813) 490-ARTS

FAOPA .or g

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Valrico Edition

MUSIC SHOWCASE AND THE FLORIDA ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS TO HOST ANNUAL SUMMER CAMP

By Lily Belcher Music Showcase and be attended by Broadthe Florida Academy way artists. of Performing Arts will Past summer shows host their annual sumhave included Mean mer camp this year.

Girls, Newsies, West The groups’ Music Side Story and Legally and More and MusiBlonde. cal Theater camps will While the shows immerse young kids in have not yet been anacting, singing, dancing nounced for the sumand more throughout Music Showcase helps students learn act- mer, they will be differing, singing and performing skills through ent than last year’s. the summer. its weekly summer camps.

“Students will learn “This program beto work collaboratively, gins developing body learn the art of stage charawareness on stage and acter and development, giving the confidence to choreography, voice proexpress themselves,” Sanjection while singing and chez said. “At the end of the speaking, props and working with a set,” program, students will showcase their new said Danielle Sanchez, academy director. abilities on the stage.”

Each camp will be two weeks long and The cost for the camp is $275, with a onefast-paced, she said. Some camps are in just time registration fee of $30. Families can the mornings or afternoons, but they gener- also take a sibling discount of $25 off the ally run between 9 a.m.-5 p.m. The earliest same program over the summer. drop-off time is 8 a.m. and the latest pickup Students should pack lunch and wear time is 6 p.m. closed-toed shoes and comfortable clothing.

The Music and More Camp has full and “As always, we are excited to work with half-day camps, with instrument, art, acting new and returning students, to continue and singing activities for campers. It will growing their talent and watching them also have themed weeks, with topics like shine throughout the camp and onstage,” Taylor Swift, Barbie and Ken and Pixar.

Sanchez said.

The Musical Theater Camp has producTo register, visit https://faopa.org/. The tions for students of all ages and skill levels. camps will be at Music Showcase, located It also has a Broadway Boot Camp that will at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

PAGE Volume 22, Issue 3 36

EASTERSEALS SCHOOL FOR LIMITLESS LEARNING — INCLUSIVE SUMMER CAMP FOR NEURODIVERSE LEARNERS

Staff Report

Get ready for an exciting and inclusive adventure designed specifically for neurodiverse young learners and those with other disabilities in kindergarten through second grade. Packed with hands-on and interactive STEAM activities, Easterseals School For Limitless Learning’s summer camp offers a supportive space where every child can explore, grow and thrive. Each session has a different theme with topics such as Ocean Explorers, where campers dive into the wonders of the deep blue sea, and LEGO Builders, where campers engage in building challenges, teamwork exercises and imaginative play using LEGO bricks. The Easterseals School for Limitless Learning is located at 2460 Bloomingdale Ave., Ste. 170, in Valrico, and the summer camp is available for eight weeks from Monday, June 16, to Friday, August 8, with morning, afternoon and all-day sessions available. Sessions are $200 per week for half-day camps and $350 per week for all-day camps. Register

by Tuesday, April 15, to get the early-bird discount — $50 off the first week’s tuition.

Register for all eight sessions and get the last week free. Please scan the QR code to register for the camp and feel free to contact Easterseals at limitlesslearning@

fl.easterseals.com or 813-236-5589.

It is located at 2460 Bloomingdale Ave., Ste. 170, in Valrico. Learn more at www.easterseals.com/ florida/programs-and-serv i c e s /c h i l d re n - - fa m i l i e s / school-for-limitless-learning. html.

The Easterseals School for Limitless Learning opened its doors last September and offers two programs, including a 10-month lower elementary program serving children with a diagnosed disability from pre-K through second grade and a year-round early childhood program serving children from 6 weeks to 3 years old with or without a diagnosed disability. The school’s innovative curriculum is tailored to meet the unique needs of its students, using hands-on activities and a play-based approach. The school follows the DIRFloortime® model, which prioritizes the development of healthy social, emotional and intellectual foundations, rather than just focusing on skills and isolated behaviors. Both programs are currently accepting new students, and financial aid and scholarships are available. Easterseals is a nonprofit organization leading the way to full equity, inclusion and access through life-changing disability and community services.

PAGE Page 37 37

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March 2025

SUMMER CAMP 2025 REGISTRATION OPEN AT THE TAMPA YMCA

PERFORMING ARTS SUMMER CAMP AT THE PATEL CONSERVATORY Staff Report

Experience everything the fun of camp has to offer at the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA. Summer camp registration is now open for both members and nonmembers.

Conveniently located across Tampa Bay, YMCA summer camps will run from Monday, June 2, to Friday, August 8, for those ages 6-15, Mondays through Fridays. Camp hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m., with early and late supervision available starting at 7 a.m. and ending at 6 p.m. at no extra charge.

Campers will explore a wide variety of activities each day in a safe, fun environment that provides the opportunity to build lifelong friendships and make memories to last long after summer ends. A few examples include swimming, science, arts/crafts, nature education, games, team building and more.

All of these fun and educational activities are infused with the Y’s character values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

Tampa YMCA summer camps are ACA-accredited. This means the Tampa Y camps underwent a thorough review of operations by the American Camp Association (ACA) — from staff qualifications and training to emergency management — and complied with the highest standards in the industry.

The ACA’s nationally recognized standards program focuses primarily on the program

There are two things to know about the Patel Conservatory’s summer camps and classes: 1. Patel, the Straz Center’s performing arts education center, offers a variety of camps and classes in dance, music and theater for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.

2. They fill up fast.

“We always recommend that people sign up for our camps as early as possible because they tend to sell out as much as a month before they even start,” said Alice Santana, the Straz Center’s vice president of education and community engagement.

Music classes for younger students and all musical theater camps fill up the fastest.

The beginner classes let children try out a discipline to see if it fits.

“We try to offer something that reaches kids at their level of expertise,” Alice said.

“We have camps for beginners who just want to dabble in the arts and all the way to students seeking expert training to prepare for a professional career.”

Some students will be on to the next thing by fall. Others, though, may want to pursue acting, dance or music beyond the comprehensive but condensed camp experience.

“We’re literally cramming an entire school year’s curriculum into nine weeks of camps and classes,” said Stephanie Pemberton, in-

Staff Report

quality, health and safety aspects of a camp’s operations.

New this year, the YMCA will have summer camps for the little ones too. Children ages 2-5 can enjoy the experience at the newly launched YMCA Preschool Summer Enrichment Camp, which will run from June 2 to August 8 — the same dates for the Y’s older campers.

It will be hosted at the Bob Gilbertson Central City Family YMCA in Tampa Heights and YMCA Camp Sierra in Carrollwood.

Designed to spark curiosity and foster social, emotional and cognitive growth, YMCA camps provide the perfect blend of fun and educational enrichment to keep the Y’s littlest campers active all summer. It is also pleased to offer swimming lessons as an add-on to ensure children learn safety around water. This helps families who cannot enroll their children for swim lessons due to work or other commitments. Additionally, it is pleased to offer a sibling discount for those with older siblings enrolled in summer camps.

Spots are limited and fill up quickly.

Register at https://tampaymca.org/letscamp. Visit https://tampaymca.org/ for more information.

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Patel’s summer schedule also includes intensives, which teach a lot of material in a short amount of time, for advanced students.

Some of them attend Patel during the school year as well.

“The students attending the intensives are dedicated,” Stephanie said. “Some want to pursue their discipline professionally. They want to increase their skills and increase their chops.”

Many Patel alums have established professional careers in the arts both on and offstage.

Former students have appeared on Broadway and in national touring companies, danced in some of the most respected ballet companies and performed live and on television and in films.

Others work as producers, directors, writers, stage managers and more. In fact, workshops on stage management, directing and playwrighting are on Patel’s summer roster.

Scholarships and other forms of financial aid are available as well.

To register for Patel’s summer camps and classes, or for more information, please visit www.strazcenter.org/patel-conservatory/ or call 813-222-1040.

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Page 38

Valrico Edition

PAGE Volume 22, Issue 3 38

CAMP BAYOU OUTDOOR LEARNING Staff Report CENTER WELCOMES SPRING WITH which runs EXCITING ACTIVITIES

EXPERIENCE THE ULTIMATE SUMMER AT BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY CAMPS Looking for the perfect summer plans?

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay offers an exciting array of camps for animal lovers and thrill seekers alike.

With over 12,000 animals and exhilarating coasters, the park provides a fun and engaging environment where children can connect with wildlife, explore nature and forge lasting friendships — all while taking a break from screens.

Busch Gardens’ camps are recognized as some of the best in the industry, led by highly trained professionals who make learning both fun and impactful.

The one-of-a-kind day camps are open to students in kindergarten through 12th grade and run weekly from Monday, June 2, to Wednesday, August 6, from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. (with extended care available).

For older students interested in zoology, veterinary careers or pushing their adventure limits, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay also offers an Overnight Resident Camp for grades seven through 12,

from Saturday, July 5, to Thursday, July 31.

For more than 25 years, Busch Gardens has been offering some of the most exciting and educational summer camp experiences in Tampa. Whether your child is interested in animal encounters, educational opportunities or thrilling rides, there’s something for everyone.

New for 2025 is the Wild Professions Camp for college students and teachers, running from Saturday, June 28, to Wednesday, July 2.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay summer camps are open to students in kindergarten through 12th grade. With accreditation by the American Camping Association (ACA), parents can trust that Busch Gardens’ day camps meets high standards for safety, staff training and program quality. To learn more or to register, visit https://buschgardens. com/camps or call 813-884-4FUN (4368). Busch Gardens looks forward to another amazing summer.

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center invites the community to welcome Spring with a series of fun-filled activities on Saturday, March 22, from 9 a.m. - noon. The event promises an engaging morning, featuring nature activity tables, trail walks, a free raffle, butterfly habitat tours and golf-cart tours through the property.

The event will also feature crafting activities, including pinecone bird feeders, vine wreaths, nature journals, seed bead jewelry, and ‘Camp Bayou’ T-shirts. All supplies are provided. No registration is required for this free event, “In the past, we’ve had about 150 people attend,” said Dolly Cummings, Director of Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center. “We are hoping to grow attendance this year.”

Camp Bayou is home to 200 acres of County-owned land, managed by the non-profit organization Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc. (B.O.L.D.). “Our Center is a hidden gem here in South Hillsborough County,” said Cummings. “Whether guests opt for a leisurely walk on their own

or schedule a program with our knowledgeable instructors, there is something for everyone.”

For those interested in a nocturnal adventure, save the date for a night paddle on Saturday, March 29, to explore the Little Manatee River after dark.

Canoes and kayaks are available for $25 per boat, or $5 if you bring your own vessel. Registration is required; email campbayou@gmail.com or call 813-6418545.

For those who are interested in helping with registered groups, Camp Bayou is looking for enthusiastic volunteers who love the outdoors and want to pass along that passion to others through hands-on activities, walks and canoe tours, as well as help with maintenance and exhibits. Contact Becki at 813-641-8545 or fill out the form at campbayou.org.

Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is located three miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St. S.E. in Ruskin. Visit www. campbayou.org or call 813-641-8545.

PAGE Page 39 39

Valrico Edition

March 2025

NAVIGATOR ACADEMY HOSTS LEADERSHIP 51ST SUN ’N FUN AEROSPACE EXPO WELCOMES NEW DAY: PACKS 100,000 MEALS FOR FOOD SHOWS, DRONE COMPETITIONS AND BLUE ANGELS

By Marie Gilmore INSECURE FAMILIES Staff Report

Navigator Academy of Leadership (NAL) held a Leadership Day in Valrico and gave students a chance to serve the community by packing thousands of meals for food insecure families in the region. On February 14, NAL, a charter school, invited the community to the campus for a special day filled with events, activities and opportunities for students to showcase their work.

This year’s theme, NAL Loves to Serve, “highlights our mission in raising and teaching student leaders and part of leadership is serving our community,” said Principal Maria Owen.

Between students, faculty, staff and parent volunteers, they packed over 100,000 meals for Feeding Tampa Bay, helping to restock food banks and support families in need.

“It was a huge success. This really has been student centered where they are the ones coming in saying, ‘We’d love to do this,’” said Dr. Diane LaFrance with Compass LLC.

Additionally, the students collected items and packed 500 hygiene kits for struggling families.

“We will be putting deodorant, shaving cream, soap and wash clothes in the kits,” said Navigator Academy eighth grader Keltie Shapiro.

The mission of Navigator Academy of Leadership K-8 is to enable students to be independent learners and leaders by developing each child’s intellectual curiosity and thirst for discovery through a cross-curricular integration of science, math, art, reading and technology.

The vision is to provide a welcoming environment where every student is empowered and inspired to develop agency over learning, and NAL’s goal is to create educational studies in a safe and nurturing environment that will include inquiry and exploration.

Navigator Academy of Leadership is located at 1101 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Call 813-603-9340 or visit www.navigatoracademyvalrico.com for more information.

The roar of jets slicing through the sky — there’s nothing like it. Every April, the Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo takes over Lakeland, drawing more than 200,000 visitors and securing its spot as the second-largest aviation event in the U.S. What started in 1974 as a small fly-in for aviation enthusiasts has blossomed into one of the most prominent and successful aviation events worldwide.

The expo isn’t just for pilots; it’s an event for everyone. Visitors can enjoy STEM and career fair activities, a Family Fun Zone, and, of course, spectacular daily and nightly airshows. These shows feature jaw-dropping performances from both military and civilian aviators.

SUN ‘n FUN Fly-In Inc., a nonprofit organization, produces the expo and other events year-round. The proceeds from these events support the Aerospace Center for Excellence (ACE), a leader in STEM and aerospace education. ACE runs several programs, including scholarships, summer camps, and outreach efforts designed to inspire and train the next generation of aerospace professionals. The Florida Air Museum, Florida’s official aviation museum, and the Lakeland Aero Club, the nation’s largest high school flying club, are also housed at ACE.

2025 Expo Highlights: April 1-6 SUN ‘n FUN 2025 will kick off with an unforgettable concert on the Warbird Ramp, presented by Wealth MD. On Tuesday, April 1, at 6:30 p.m., country music stars Tyler Hubbard and Uncle Kracker will take the stage for a fun-filled night under the stars.

A drone, laser, airplane, and pyrotechnic-filled fireworks show will light up the skies from Wednesday, April 2 through Saturday, April 5 at dusk.

On Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, April 1, 3 and 4, will be the Sunset Aerial Circus. The action-packed lineup includes: • STOL Demo.

• Airythmia Paramotor Team.

• The Chuters Parachute Team.

• Pivotal Aircraft.

• Drones and Balloon Glows.

For the first time, SUN ‘n FUN will host the Academic Drone Soccer League World Cup on April 3 and 4 at the Aerospace Pavilion. Prepare for a high-energy competition as teams battle it out in this exciting new event.

And to cap off the weekend, the U.S. Navy Blue Angels will perform in the airshow on Saturday and Sunday, April 5-6.

For tickets, showtimes, parking info and more details, visit https://flysnf.org/.

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PAGE Volume 22, Issue 3

Valrico Edition

40

FAOPA STUDENTS BRING HOME NATIONAL AWARDS FROM FESTIVAL Staff Report

TAMPA BAY HOT AIR BALLOON FESTIVAL — ENJOY BALLOON RIDES AND MORE

Students representing Backstage Theater, Center Stage Youth Theatre, the Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA) and the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Academy received awards and recognition at the 2025 Junior Theater Festival Atlanta (JTF Atlanta). The monumental weekend dedicated to rewarding and celebrating excellent student-driven musical theater programs happened from January 17-19 at the Cobb Convention Centre in Atlanta, Georgia.

At the festival, each group performed 15 minutes of a Broadway Junior musical for adjudicators.

The Florida Academy of Performing Arts received the Excellence in Acting Award.

FAOPA’s Anna Beth James and Kat Baudoin were named Junior Theater Festival All-Stars, a select group of outstanding performers.

FAOPA presented Disney’s Aladdin JR. to Kelby McIntyre-Martinez, associate dean for arts education and community engagement of the University of Utah; and Bob Lenzi, Broadway actor (Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, Tuck Everlasting).

McIntyre-Martinez said, “Wonderful ensemble work, great storytelling!”

Lenzi added, “This program finds a way

Mark your calendars for the Tampa Bay Balloon Festival on Friday and Saturday, March 2122, at the Florida State Fairgrounds.

Bring the whole family out for a weekend packed with fun and excitement. Experience the awe-inspiring sight of hot air balloons and check off a bucket list item with an actual hot air balloon ride.

Enjoy live music from an amazing DJ to keep the energy high throughout the event, explore craft and retail vendor booths offering a variety of unique and interesting items for sale, be amazed by Monster Show Kites performing before the hot air balloons take flight, and don’t forget to satisfy your cravings at the food vendors serving up delicious festival-style fare.

Bucket list alert! Tethered hot air balloon rides will be available for $35 per person (while supplies last, and weather permitting). Announcements on availability will be made on-site.

to feature many of its talented individuals, while also being able to step back into an ensemble and work together.”

The Florida Academy of Performing Arts is a nonprofit organization established in 2010 with the goal of supporting and developing performing arts throughout the community.

One of the groups operating at FAOPA is the competition team. The competition team was established in fall 2021, and its past pieces were from Junie B. Jones Jr., Children of Eden Jr. and Once on This Island Jr. Student Morgan Sheriff (2024 and 2022 JTF Atlanta) won a Sheridan Giles Technical Theater Award. Noah Ochalek and Morgan Sheriff (2023 JTF Atlanta) were added to the Technical Theatre All-Stars, a select group of students who worked side-by-side with individuals to help run events.

Students Mary Pope and Nicole Drake (2024 JTF Atlanta) and Timothy Addie (2022 and 2023 JTF Atlanta) made it to the callback for special projects or future video shoots for ‘how-to’ choreography videos. He was ultimately cast and traveled to New York City to film the videos (2022).

FAOPA is located in Brandon at Music Showcase 402 Oakfield Dr Brandon, FL 33511. https://faopa.org/

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Staff Report

For a spectacular grand finale each night at around 9 p.m., get ready for the Hot Air Balloon Glow & Laser Show.

Watch as the balloons light up in perfect harmony with thrilling music and a laser performance and join in the fun with crowd ‘Count Downs.’ It’s a glowing spectacle you won’t want to miss.

Don’t forget to bring your blankets, chairs and umbrellas to enjoy the perfect view.

The event will also feature a kids’ zone, games, rides and so much more.

Tickets start at $10 for children and $20 for adults and are limited. To get tickets, visit www. freshtix.com/events/balloonskitestampa.

Additionally, volunteers are needed to help balloon pilots set up the event.

Sign up here: https://form.jotform. com/220156954235152.

The Florida State Fairgrounds are located at 4800 U.S. Hwy. 301 N. in Tampa. For more information on the Balloon Fest, visit https://balloonshows.com/.

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Valrico Edition

Volume 22, Issue 3