June 2026 Magazine

BAY

Explore the new Above & Beyond Exhibit and more! WITH TAMPA BAY 28’S DENIS PHILLIPS HURRICANE SEASON 101

BayCare Kid For Life

Expert health care when your child needs it most.

BayCare treats more children in West Central Florida than any other health care system. From routine care to urgent care, as well as complex medical issues and emergencies, you can count on the BayCare Kids team. BayCare Urgent Care treats children age 6 months and older and, in an emergency, the experts at our dedicated pediatric emergency centers specialize in the unique needs of kids. St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, BayCare Medical Group Pediatrics and the entire BayCare Kids network help children start strong and stay strong.

To learn more, go to BayCare.org/JustForKids or scan this code:

JUNE 2026

CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND EDITORIAL MANAGER

Laura Byrne

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Anu Varma Panchal

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Zoë Joiner

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Laura Byrne

Anu Varma Panchall

Zoë Joiner

Tara Payor, PhD

Maggie Rodriguez

Jenny P

Brie Gorecki

Jennifer Wainman

Grayson Kamm

Erin McNamee

Kath Olsen

Rosa Ontiveros

Meghan Garner

Bayshore Christian School

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Ralf Gonzalez

LAYOUT & DESIGN

Jennifer Dufek

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Laura Byrne

Zoë Joiner

MOSI

Laura Walters

Ally Richardson @allyraephoto

Meg Britten

Cristin Jackson

Jenny Halea

Kyle Flubacker

National Hurricane Center

NOAA WTFS

Jenny P State Archives of Florida

BOOKKEEPING

James Anderson

DISTRIBUTION

TGS Media Distribution, tgsmedia.com

TAMPA BAY

PARENTING MAGAZINE

320 W. Kennedy Blvd. Ste. 220 Tampa, Florida 33606

Phone 813-949-4400

Fax 813-315-6688

info@tbparenting.com

editor@tbparenting.com

Articles

10 // COVER STORY: Explore the future of aviation and space travel with MOSI's new exhibit, "Above and Beyond"

17 // What’s New at ZooTampa: Get an inside look at new tours and experiences this summer

19 // Fill Your Summer with Wild: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Summer Nights are back with great kid-friendly experiences

21 // Adventure Awaits: Kids can play like a pirate at LEGOLAND ® Pirate Island Hotel

2 3 // Old Florida Attractions: Check out these great attractions that you can still visit today

2 7 // On-The-Go Summer Fuel: Road and theme park snacks that are also great for summer camp days

28 // An Egg-cellent Family Pet: The Hartneys of South Tampa are raising seven adorable Orpington hens

3 2 // Let’s Go Analog: Step away from technology and enjoy needlepoint at Sunshine Needlepoint in Ybor City

3 4 // Hurricane Season 2026: Here’s what you need to know to stay prepared and keep your family safe

43 // Digital Detox: Unplug and discover this summer with books featuring physical map builds

4 5 // Same Address, New Chapter: Bayshore Christian School purchases 3909 S. MacDill Ave.

53 // Ask the Doctor: Learn about the importance of early dental care with McIlwain Dental Specialists

57 // Sunshine, Smiles & Dairy Delights: Celebrate National Dairy Month in Florida

59 // Bump and Beyond: Expecting and new parents throughout the community find support at this popular event

60 // Heart Checks: BayCare offers student athletes quick and easy EKGs to comply with new state laws

61 // Why EKGs Matter: Meet Sara Waters, a local teen who survived sudden cardiac arrest

Every Issue:

6 // Noteworthy: What’s new and GOOD in Tampa Bay

9 // Top Picks: Our top picks for family events in June

1 3 // The Play List: Beat the summer heat with some of Tampa’s great indoor playgrounds

15 // Teacher to Know: Meet Anna Grulich, Guest Engagement Coordinator at Glazer Children’s Museum

3 7 // Moms to Know: Meet Jenny Hales, Vice President of Operations at Grateful Hospitality

3 9 // Kids to Know: Meet Swara Nirav Patel, a rising senior at Carrollwood Day School

62 // What’s Trending on TampaBayParenting.com: What’s clicking and expanded coverage online

BECOME A FAN tampabayparenting @tampabayparenting

tampabayparenting.com

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

49 // A Summer to Slow Down: Find joy and appreciate the little moments at the YMCA

ABOUT THE COVER:

The Hartney family of Tampa explores MOSI's new Above and Beyond exhibit. Pictured are Mark, Kim, Jack and Evie. Read more on page 10. The Hartneys are also sharing their adventure with raising backyard chickens on page 28

TGH EMERGENCY CARE: EXPERT PEDIATRIC CARE FOR YOUR WHOLE FAMILY

Tampa General provides 24/7 emergency care, staffed by fellowship-trained, board-certified pediatric emergency medicine physicians, with access to the region’s only Level I Trauma Center and backed by Florida’s premier academic health system™.

At the Muma Children’s Hospital at TGH, our pediatric emergency department at Davis Islands is built just for kids, with child-friendly spaces and care teams trained in pediatric emergency medicine.

And our emergency centers across the region ensure your child has access to the highest level of emergency care when you need it most.

TGH EMERGENCY LOCATIONS:

NOTEWORTHY june

MOSI partners with Blue Star Museums this Summer

Active duty military personnel and their families, including the National Guard and Reserve, can get free entry into Blue Star Museums this summer from Armed Forces Day on May 16 through Sept. 7. MOSI is proud to participate once again! Families can soar in the new “Above and Beyond” exhibit, launch to Moonbase and do so much more. mosi.org

Flip to page 10 to learn more about the Above and Beyond exhibit.

Baby Nyala Antelope Born at ZooTampa

ZooTampa welcomed a baby female nyala to the herd on May 6 to first-time mother Macy and father Barry. The calf weighed 6.3 pounds and was walking within 15 minutes of birth. Nyala are spiral-horned antelopes native to southern Africa, recognized for their chestnut coats with white stripes and spots.

Flip to page 17 for more information about NEW Inside Look tours at ZooTampa this summer, where you can learn about how animal keepers care for animals like nyalas every day.

Johns Hopkins All Children’s Topping Out Ceremony in Wesley Chapel

Johns Hopkins All Children’s celebrated the topping out of its new Wesley Chapel campus, a significant milestone in which the final steel beam was placed, marking the completion of the building’s frame. Young patients adorably helped the crane operator lift and install the beam! The new five-story, full-service pediatric hospital is on track to open in Fall 2027.

St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Hosts Prom for Patients

St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital hosted its annual prom night for patients who are unable to attend their own prom or who, due to chronic or lifethreatening conditions, may never get the opportunity. The enchanted forestthemed prom was held at the hospital and made possible by the St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Foundation and presenting sponsor Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation. Kids got to experience a glam station, arcade games, swag bags, dinner and lots of dancing on an interactive LED dance floor.

Tampa General Hospital Celebrates 5th Annual Genesis Baby Shower

Tampa General Hospital's Women’s Institute celebrated 150 expectant and new mothers from the Genesis Women’s Center at its 5th Annual Genesis Baby Shower. The event focused on providing support, education and essential resources and must-haves during pregnancy and early motherhood. The event is designed to empower women to make informed decisions and help reduce risks associated with childbirth and the postpartum period.

Local Students Win Art Contest to Send Masterpieces to Space!

Eeshan Kallu from Dorothy C. York Innovation Academy in Apollo Beach and Maddox Sewell from Turkey Creek Middle School in Plant City are among the winners of an art contest through the Student Spaceflight

Experiments Program (SSEP) Mission 21. They were tasked with designing artwork for a mission patch — and now their creations will be heading to the International Space Station, where the masterpieces will orbit Earth for four to six weeks. When the artwork returns, the kids will get their art back, along with a special certificate proving it traveled to space! Congrats, kiddos!

Reading with the Rays Returns

The Rays and Suncoast Credit Union are partnering once again for the 19th season of Reading with the Rays — Read Your Way to the Ballpark. This incentive-based reading program encourages Pre-K to 12th-grade students to avoid summer learning loss by reading for a total of 24 hours during the summer months. The Rays kicked off the program with several reading events, including one with Rays pitcher Ian Seymour, who read to second and third-grade students at Tampa Bay Boulevard Elementary School in Tampa.

Kids can download a Reading with the Rays game card or pick one up from a participating library or local Suncoast Credit Union branch. As they round the bases, stacking up hours of reading, they earn prizes, including a Home Plate prize of receiving two tickets to a Tampa Bay Rays home game for 24 hours of reading. For more information and to download a game card, visit RaysBaseball.com/Reading or RaysBeisbol.com/Leyendo

Since the program’s inception, more than 585,000 children across 12 area counties have spent more than 3.7 million hours reading over the summer.

COMING SOON

“The Art of Banksy” Exhibit Headed to Tampa

Aug. 1-30 at Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Tampa

The world’s largest authenticated collection of Banksy art is heading to the stage at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa this summer. The Straz is taking advantage of the break between Broadway seasons by bringing a different kind of art to the stage for guests to experience, allowing you to step up on stage and immerse yourself in world-famous art.

The Art of Banksy will go on exhibit on the Morsani Hall stage. You will get to see many other versions of it for yourself, along with the 160 other original pieces by the elusive artist from a privately owned collection. strazcenter.org

Monster Jam Roars Back to Tampa This Summer!

Aug. 14-16 at Benchmark International Arena, Tampa

Get ready for the summer event that will change everything you thought you knew about freestyle! Monster Jam Freestyle Mania is a new event format and will compete for the first time ever in Tampa, with Monster Jam® trucks teaming up with Freestyle Motocross (FMX) bikes to deliver gravity-defying skills and thrills. Upgrade your experience and start the day early at the Monster Jam Pit Party® on both Saturday and Sunday, a first stop for selfies with the trucks and bikes, high-fives and autographs from drivers and riders and family-friendly activities. monsterjam.com

photo credit Kyle Flubacker

Hillsborough County Public Schools presents

BACK TO SCHOOL

• 70+ Vendors

• 7,000+ Attendees

• During the Back-to-School SALES TAX HOLIDAY!

• One-stop shop for parents

Saturday, Aug 1, 2026 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Citrus Park Town Center, 8021 Citrus Park Dr, Tampa, FL 33625

JUNE Top Picks

Our favorite family-friendly events in Tampa Bay

FIFA WORLD CUP 2026™ EXPERIENCE

JUNE 11-JULY 19

WINTER HAVEN

This all-new event is kicking — transforming the Resort into a celebration of soccer fandom and LEGO® play. You can expect event-exclusive experiences like a chance to score against a LEGO® Minifigure and sharpen your soccer skills through playful, inclusive challenges, design a jersey and meet soccer legends in LEGO form! legoland.com/florida

AQUAGLOW AT ADVENTURE ISLAND

MAY 22-AUG. 8

TAMPA

Light up your summer at this family-friendly nighttime event that transforms Adventure Island into a dazzling neon paradise. With limited capacity, it’s a more relaxed, exclusive experience with plenty of room to glow, dance and make memories with friends and family. adventureisland.com

SUMMER NIGHTS AT BUSCH GARDENS

MAY 22-AUG. 9

TAMPA

Summer Nights returns with extended park hours, world-class coasters and electrifying entertainment. New this year, catch the wave of retro fun at Beach Bash and beat the heat during the day, and enjoy returning favorites like Cirque Electric, Animal Tales, Icons and Rhythm of Nature. End your day with our immersive Wild Skies drone show with fireworks on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, with an all-new show and more drones! buschgardens.com/tampa

SUMMER OF PLAY AT GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM IN TAMPA

During Summer of Play, families can expect a rotating lineup of creative experiences, including hands-on art projects, special guests, story times and collaborative crafts. With a focus on making and creating, kids turn everyday materials into friendship bracelets, junk journals and imaginative works of art. glazermuseum.org

Take

me out to the ball game!

ROOT FOR THE HOME TEAM AT TROPICANA FIELD IN ST. PETE

The Tampa Bay Rays have 16 home games on schedule this month with games against the Detroit Tigers, Boston Red Sox, Washington Nationals and Arizona Diamondbacks. Kids who are members of the Rays Rookies Kids Club get 50% off select game tickets on June 21 and June 28.

date night

SCIENCE AFTER DARK AT MOSI

JUNE 19 FROM 6 TO 9 P.M.

TAMPA

Who says kids should have all the fun? Adults get to take over MOSI during Science After Dark and experience all of the exhibits along with bites and drinks from local restaurants, liquid nitrogen ice cream and a show in the Saunders Planetarium. This month’s theme is High Fliers: The Science of Flight. mosi.org

Summer events!

6TH ANNUAL

JUNE 15-20

TAMPA

TAMPA BAY JUNETEENTH FESTIVAL

Head to Raymond James Stadium for a multi-day festival featuring a Youth Summit, Health and Wellness Conference and the Juneteenth Festival on Saturday, June 20. You can expect live DJs, artistic dance performances, musical guests, KidZone and so much more! roctheblockinc.com

GIRAFFE CELEBRATION WEEKEND AT BUSCH GARDENS

JUNE 20-21

TAMPA

Celebrate the world’s tallest living land mammal on the Serengeti Plain during this weekend that’s dedicated to all things giraffe! buschgardens.com/tampa

ZOOTAMPA CONSERVATION CONNECTION: WORLD OCEANS DAY

JUNE 20 FROM 9:30 A.M. TO 2:30 P.M.

TAMPA

Join the Zoo’s Education team in Manatee Circle to celebrate World Ocean Day! Find out how important the ocean is to some ZooTampa residents and learn how you can make simple choices to protect oceans from near and far. zootampa.org

TAMPA THEATRE SUMMER SING-ALONG SERIES

JUNE 28 AT 6:30 P.M.

TAMPA, SPARKMAN WHARF

With Tampa Theatre’s historic auditorium closed for restoration ahead of its 100th anniversary in October, the majestic movie palace is taking the show on the road with a series of FREE Summer Sing-Along Screenings on select Sundays at Sparkman Wharf, presented by QC. The June movie on schedule is High School Musical (2006). tampatheatre.org

save the date

19TH ANNUAL BACK TO SCHOOL FAIR

AUG. 1 FROM 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M.

NEW LOCATION: CITRUS PARK MALL IN TAMPA

Cool off in the air-conditioning at Tampa’s Citrus Park Mall from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and explore 50+ different businesses and organizations that cater to families just like yours. Get to know the staff and students of the incredible magnet schools in Hillsborough County, meet local team mascots, snap photos with princesses, enter drawings and contests throughout the day and do so much more. The first 1,000 kids will receive a free backpack! tampabayparenting.com/backtoschoolfair

SCAN HERE FOR MORE WEEKEND TOP PICKS

EARN YOUR WINGS AT MOSI!

New “Above and Beyond” Exhibit Explores the Future of Aviation and Space Travel

by Grayson Kamm

With humanity’s return to the moon dominating headlines, the future of space exploration feels more achievable than ever before.

MOSI, Tampa’s Museum of Science & Innovation, is giving you a front-row seat to the next era of flight — no rocket required!

“Above and Beyond” is now open at MOSI. This limited-time, hands-on aerospace experience takes visitors from the Wright brothers’ first flight to the possibilities of tomorrow.

“Above and Beyond” lets you pilot your way through imagination, engineering and exploration with interactive experiences designed to inspire guests of all ages.

The journey begins in a wraparound immersive theater before opening into four interactive galleries — Up, Faster, Higher and Smarter — where you can turn big ideas into real experiences.

Design and test your own supersonic jet, explore a giant multitouch timeline with interactive simulations and discover what it feels like to soar in formation with your friends and family.

Created in collaboration with Boeing, NASA and the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, "Above and Beyond" connects the

wonder of discovery with the realworld innovations shaping the future of aerospace.

Still need more space? Combine your visit to "Above and Beyond" with a tour of the night sky and 360-degree movie, “Dream to Fly,” in the Holloway Digital Dome Theatre, then travel to Mission: Moonbase, MOSI’s permanent simulated lunar colony.

Want to keep flying? Head to MOSI’s Aviation Evolution exhibit to navigate through an interactive maze filled with marvels of flight, then take the controls of a real drone in Flight Club Drone Zone presented by Suncoast Credit Union.

All those experiences, including the limited-time “Above and Beyond” exhibit, are included with MOSI admission. Get tickets now at mosi.org

Fly Like a Bird!

Learn how birds conserve energy by flying in a V formation and give it a try for yourself! The exhibit shows us how the leading bird creates an upward current of air behind it so the next birds ride the updraft for a lift. The U.S. Air Force and Boeing tested this theory with C-17 cargo planes and found that flying in these patterns cuts fuel consumption by up to 10-20%!

Go Full Throttle!

Apply aerodynamic principles to design your own virtual fighter jets and race against other would-be pilots in a high-speed flying competition.

Blast From the Past.

Explore the history of

and how it has changed the

IGNITE YOUR INNER SCIENTIST AT MOSI’S SUMMER SCIENCE CAMPS

Ready to launch a rocket, build a working robot or extract real DNA with your own hands? Then you’re ready for MOSI's Summer Science Camps!

Campers can dive into everything from cooking science and marine biology to video game coding and dinosaur fossils, guided by experienced educators who find the fun in every discovery.

With camp options from preschool through high school, there’s a safe, inclusive STEAM-powered camp for every kid who is excited by science, technology, engineering, art and math.

Plus, MOSI’s exhibits are part of the camp experience, with every camp including an eye-opening show in the eight-story-tall Holloway Digital Dome Theatre, home of the Saunders Planetarium.

Indoor Playgrounds

by Zoë Joiner

Happy dance — we made it through “Maycember” — just in time for the summer heat to start ramping up. Thankfully, you can take your pick of great indoor places to get out the wiggles and let off steam. In case you have your eye out for any summer memberships, here are our family-favorite, air-conditioned places to play across Tampa Bay.

TAMPA

Glazer Children’s Museum

DOWNTOWN TAMPA

glazermuseum.org

Annual Family Memberships from $255

Glazer Children’s Museum has been the go-to indoor summer playdate spot for good reason. With three levels of fun to explore — plus reciprocity with other top-notch Tampa Bay attractions — this is our Top Pick for a family membership leading into summer. Did we mention you can play underneath Big John, the world’s biggest Triceratops fossil? Members even receive a discount on summer camps at the museum.

The Little Lounge

SOUTH TAMPA

thelittleloungetpa.com

Annual Family Memberships from $85/mo.

The sweetest spot for a playdate south of Kennedy, The Little Lounge was born from a speech pathologist who knows the value of staying regulated. We love this super small-but-fun space that is designed to support development and give parents a calm place to relax.

WonderGrounds Play Café

WESLEY CHAPEL

wondergroundsplaycafe.com

Monthly Family Memberships from $69.99

This go-to spot for families with kids ages 6 and under in north Tampa offers a variety of play areas and seating options, as well as functionality for hybrid-working parents. They even have their own toddler café menu; how cute is that?

MOSI

TEMPLE TERRACE mosi.org

Annual Family Memberships from $125

At another classic Tampa indoor place to play, we love checking out MOSI’s fun, rotating exhibits and finding each of the fun characters in their Seasonal Scavenger Hunts. Plus, now’s the perfect time to rediscover the newly rebranded “Museum of Science and Innovation,” and check out the new Holloway Digital Dome Theatre and Saunders Planetarium, which is the second-largest planetarium in America. Members also receive discounts on summer camps here.

ST. PETERSBURG

Great Explorations

DOWNTOWN ST. PETE greatex.org

Annual Family Memberships from $175

We love St. Pete’s Children’s Museum, located right next to another favorite, Sunken Gardens, because it has everything families need. Kids love exploring each themed room of this straightforward space that’s impossible to get lost in. From role-playing a dentist to a doctor, a news anchor, a pizza maker and a Publix supermarket cashier, there’s plenty to explore and play pretend.

Run + Play Café

UNITED CENTRAL ST. PETE runandplaykidscafe.com

Monthly Family Memberships from $99

This adorable indoor playground is paired with a coffee shop and kids' retail store. Grab a Run + Play membership for the best value or drop in to play. Parents can order specialty coffees and pastries from a separate interior window while kiddos climb, slide and play grocery store.

WORTH THE DRIVE: LEGOLAND® Florida Resort

LEGOLAND® Florida is a great escape for families looking for an escape built for kids with plenty of options to cool down, whether it’s an adventure at the water park, a walk through SEA LIFE Florida, which is indoors, or taking a break to build inside one of the many indoor build zones, including the LEGO® Ferrari Build & Race Experience. There’s also a surprising amount of shade throughout the park.

Glazer Children's Museum

MOSI

TEACHER to Know

Anna Grulich

Guest Engagement Coordinator Glazer Children’s Museum

On any given day at Glazer Children’s Museum, you might find children building forts, climbing to the rafters, dancing to a piano melody or transforming recycled materials into imaginative creations. For Guest Engagement Coordinator Anna Grulich, those playful moments are where the real magic happens. If you’ve visited GCM recently, you may recognize Anna as the friendly face leading hands-on activities, sparking imaginative play and encouraging grownups to jump into the fun alongside their kids. We caught up with her to talk about the power of play, learning beyond the classroom and why summer might just be the perfect season for creativity.

TBPM: What is your role at Glazer Children’s Museum, and what does it mean to you?

AG: I’m the guest engagement coordinator, which means I create fun, engaging programs and playful learning opportunities for our guests. I started as a playologist, facilitating programs on the museum floor, and now I get to help develop and shape those experiences. It’s really rewarding to dream up activities and then watch families make them their own through play.

TBPM: How did you end up in this field?

AG: I originally studied biology because I thought I wanted to work with animals, but my museum studies minor completely changed my perspective. It sparked my interest in informal education and helped me realize how impactful museums can be as spaces for learning and connection.

I’ve worked with both children and older adults, and I’ve seen firsthand how healing, meaningful and joyful play can be at every age. That idea has really stuck with me.

TBPM: What is it like being an educator outside of a traditional classroom?

AG: It’s very different from a classroom because there isn’t a strict curriculum or one “right” way to learn. At the museum, the exhibits become the framework, and the play is child-led. Every day is different because the families and kids are different every day.

I love that. Sometimes I’m teaching, but a lot of the time I’m learning right alongside our guests and staff. We may plan programs for the day, but every Playologist brings their own personality and creativity to the experience, and kids take it in directions we never expected.

TBPM: What’s your favorite exhibit or thing to do at GCM?

AG: It’s hard to pick a favorite, but right now I really love “Forts.” I also love dancing, so you can usually find me dancing somewhere in the museum, whether it’s with kids playing the piano in “Forts,” babies exploring the light cloud in KidsPort or honestly anywhere music is happening.

The best moments are when you see kids fully immersed in creativity and confidence. That kind of joyful play is contagious.

TBPM: What’s the best part of your job?

AG: Definitely interacting with guests and being part of special moments for families. I also love getting to be creative and trying new

things to enhance our guest experience. Playologists are constantly experimenting with different ways to engage kids, and there’s a lot of freedom to make experiences playful and memorable.

At the end of the day, my job is literally about helping people play, and that’s pretty amazing.

TBPM: What inspires your work?

AG: I think a lot about the experiences I was lucky enough to have growing up: trips to the library, visits to science centers, arts and crafts at home, playing outside and adults who encouraged my interests and creativity. Those moments stay with you. Even little interactions can have a lasting impact on a child, so I’m always thinking about how we can make a program, activity or conversation feel just a little more meaningful and memorable for a family.

TBPM: Summer break can be challenging for parents trying to keep kids engaged. How does GCM help families avoid the “summer slide”?

AG: Summer is actually one of my favorite times at the museum because kids learn best when they’re genuinely excited and engaged. At GCM, we use play-based learning to keep kids creating, experimenting, storytelling, problem-solving and collaborating all summer long.

This summer, we’re especially excited about our Summer of Play programming, where families can explore hands-on art projects, story times, collaborative crafts and creative experiences inspired by weekly themes.

One of the biggest highlights is our ongoing junk journaling activity. Kids create journals from recycled materials and continue adding to them throughout the summer with new pages, memories, artwork and ideas. It’s creative, personal and a really fun way to encourage literacy, storytelling, self-expression and problem-solving all at once.

TBPM: What about grownups? Is it ever too late to learn through play?

AG: Never. I truly believe play is for everyone, no matter your age. One of my favorite parts of my job is giving parents and caregivers permission to jump in and have fun too.

We see grownups reconnect with creativity and curiosity all the time at the museum. Families are welcome to play together year-round, and this summer we’re even hosting “Grown Up Night: Crafter Hours" on July 18 for adults who want to tap back into their creative side and rediscover the joy of making something just for fun.

Florida waters

ZooTampa’s largest expansion to date, Florida Waters was designed to inspire curiosity and wonder of the natural world. The area features hands-on, family-friendly elements like a mangrove walk-through tunnel, a jellies aquatic exhibit, and up-close immersive habitats with otters, reptiles, and amphibians. Plus, see conservation in real-time and learn about the Zoo’s work to save manatees and other Florida species.

With a Zoo Fun Ticket, pay for a day and visit the rest of 2026 FREE! PLUS experience seasonal events like Creatures of the Night and Christmas in the Wild.

Je

STRAZ FAMILYmanatee rescue

OTTER OASIS

Reptile and Amphibian Discovery

New Tours and Experiences at ZooTampa!

by Laura Byrne

It’s going to be a wild summer at ZooTampa! Not only can you explore the amazing new Florida Waters, where you can let the kids press their noses to the aquarium glass and go nose to snout with the manatees once again, but you can also book all-new experiences to upgrade your day. Several new behind-the-scenes tours scheduled this summer show allow you to talk to the animal keepers who work with the animals daily … including some keepers who are working to save entire species.

And you’ll learn some pretty awesome fun facts along the way. During our recent experience, “Inside Look Tour: Animal Health,” we learned that the zoo’s veterinarians give acupuncture to the animals to help with ailments like limited leg mobility and even have the elephants do yoga to help with their arthritis. Pretty wild, right?

Here’s the breakdown of what’s NEW for this summer!

NEW: Inside Look Tours

Members: $50 | Non-Members: $65 | 45-minute tour | Ages 5+

There are three new Inside Look Tour themes to choose from, and what your tour will look like will vary based on which animals need care that day. We were able to see a spoonbill chick receive acupuncture on one of its legs, and watched as animal keepers tube-fed a manatee that had been rescued that week. It was pretty incredible to witness and really does give you a whole new appreciation for the work that happens every day here at the Zoo.

TOUR THEMES:

• ANIMAL NUTRITION: You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at ZooTampa’s Animal Nutrition Center and help the dedicated team prepare food for animals in their care. You may even get to feed the animals, too.

• ANIMAL HEALTH: This is a chance to step inside the Catherine Lowry Straz Veterinary Hospital, where ZooTampa’s team treats animals of all sizes. You’ll get to chat with a zoo veterinarian about all of the tools they use and how they’re able to keep animals of all sizes happy and healthy.

• SAVING A SPECIES: ZooTampa works with several Species Survival Programs, and you’ll get to see one in action with a behind-the-scenes look at the new Reptile and Amphibian Discovery Center in Florida Waters to learn about how they’re working to save species like the striped newt, Puerto Rican crested toads and Panamanian golden frogs.

NEW: Discover ZooTampa Tour

Members: $120 | Non-Members: $160 | 90-minute tour | Ages 5+

This is the perfect tour for animal lovers and kids who want to grow up to be the next generation of animal keepers. Your family will get to take on the role of an Animal Care Professional and go behind-the-scenes to work alongside the zoo’s dedicated team as they provide worldclass care, enrichment activities and training exercises to their wildlife residents.

Painting with Orangutans

Members: $100 | Non-Members: $140 | Ages 5+

Create a masterpiece to take home with a Bornean orangutan animal artist! Open to ages 5 and up, this experience will be available on Sundays in June and July at 8:30 a.m. Zoo admission is included with the event ticket.

But

wait…there’s

SO MUCH MORE!

Scan to learn more about all of the amazing Animal Encounters and Tours available this summer at ZooTampa!

Some of our favorites are the In-Water Stingray Encounter. You’ll get to wade into the water of Stingray Shores, get a glimpse of these beautiful creatures underwater and even feed them. We also love the Giraffe Encounter and Greater One-Horned Rhino Encounter for amazing photos as you feed the animals.

Wild Thrills, Cool Nights

Fill Your Summer with Wild at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay!

by Erin McNamee

With kid-friendly experiences, award-winning entertainment and thrilling roller coasters, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the ultimate destination for channeling your inner wild. From riding world-class coasters to upclose encounters with over 200 animal species, create unforgettable memories with the whole family this summer. Even the youngest explorers can play and experience the park at their own pace. Families can spark curiosity with up-close encounters at with kangaroos at Kangaloom, birds at Lory Landing and the park’s animal ambassadors at Animal Connections. Plus, little adventurers can climb, splash and play in dedicated areas like Wild Oasis at Jungala — North America’s most immersive kid-friendly adventure. Stay longer and play later at Summer Nights from May 22-Aug. 9 for nighttime coaster rides, electrifying entertainment and extended hours on select nights — all included with park admission. Enjoy two new drone spectaculars, the return of fan-favorite shows and exclusive patriotic offerings for America’s 250th celebration.

SUMMER NIGHTS SHOWS & PRESENTATIONS

• CIRQUE ELECTRIC: A fan-favorite Acrobatic show at Stanleyville Theater beginning June 11

• ANIMAL TALES: Educational show at Pantopia Theater highlighting 200+ species, with appearances from animal ambassadors.

• ICONS: Live musical performances of fan-favorite hits inspired by legendary artists at Dragon Fire Grill.

• RHYTHM OF NATURE: Ice spectacle following a young hero’s journey through a magical realm exploring the wonders of the animal kingdom.

Celebrate this summer with Busch Gardens’ 250th Celebration! This patriotic summer event is packed with all-American excitement throughout the park. Guests can experience special military appreciation offerings, shop patriotic merchandise and commemorative souvenirs, and indulge in Americana-inspired food, summer treats and festive culinary offerings.

Go unlimited this summer with an Annual Pass! Annual Pass Members receive exclusive benefits like FREE parking, FREE guest tickets and FREE monthly rewards. Pass members will get an exclusive first look at the all-new Lion and Hyena Ridge, Busch Gardens’ newest and most immersive animal habitat in over a decade.

Plus, say “cheers” to summer with the return of FREE beer! For a limited time, guests 21+ will get one complimentary 7-ounce icecold pour, while Pass Members get two complimentary 7-ounce pours available at Overlook Taproom from 11 a.m. until 90 minutes before the park closes.

Make a splash at Adventure Island! Float down the Rambling Bayou lazy river, splash through Castaway Falls and enjoy waterslides for every thrill level. With sandy beaches and plenty of room to relax, it’s the perfect destination for family fun. Plus, light up your summer nights at AquaGlow, a separately ticketed event with glowing lights and vibrant entertainment on select nights.

Whether guests are seeking thrills, family fun or unforgettable summer nights, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Adventure Island offer exciting ways to make memories all season long.

Adventure awaits at Pirate Island Hotel at LEGOLAND ® Florida Resort

by Laura Byrne

Your little swashbucklers worked like captains all school year! Now it’s time for them to play like a pirate, and we can’t think of any better place to map out an adventure than LEGOLAND Pirate Island Hotel!

It’s a plank’s walk away from LEGOLAND Florida Resort and right next door to LEGOLAND Hotel. The LEGO piratethemed hotel was built for kids, but teens (and kids at heart) love it, too!

We like that it tends to be a bit quieter, and we absolutely love the Shipwreck Restaurant, where they’re serving up family-style BBQ at dinner and the yummiest breakfast. Because Pirate Island Hotel is connected to the LEGOLAND Florida Hotel, you get to enjoy twice as many amenities, like the Creative Workshop and access to both pools. It’s the perfect place to STAY and PLAY because when the park closes, the fun begins at the hotels!

OUR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO AT THE HOTELS:

In-Room Scavenger Hunt: Our kids still get excited about the scavenger hunt and opening up the safe filled with LEGO surprises. LEGO gifts are in each room at all three LEGOLAND Florida Resort hotels.

Creative Workshops: Book your free 30-minute class as soon as two weeks before your stay and build a custom model with a Master Model Builder that you can take home.

Walk the Boardwalk: This was one of my favorite parts about the stay — getting the chance to take a relaxing walk along the boardwalk on Lake Eloise. We did a little bit of planet and stargazing too as the sun set.

Florida’s Wild Side Minigolf: Play a round of mini golf as the sun sets. It’s a gorgeous view, and you can check out the LEGO builds of different animals throughout the course.

S’mores: Roast some marshmallows after a round of mini golf in the fire pit. S’mores kits are available for purchase at the front desk.

Evening Activities: Check the schedule each day to see what celebration is happening in the lobbies. There are always fun characters and experiences planned!

Pontoon Boat Rides: We booked an early morning cruise before the park opened and toured Lake Eloise and the neighboring Lake Lulu. We saw tons of birds, an alligator, learned about the history of the area and got a peek at the backside of Cypress Gardens at LEGOLAND, which is home to 600-year-old cypress trees!

EXPLORE THE PARKS:

There are more than 60 attractions, shows and rides at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, including the all-new Galacticoaster, the most awesome family coaster. You get to design your own ride vehicle, and it’s indoors, so it’s a great way to cool off on a hot summer day.

The LEGOLAND Water Park is another must-visit. Our kids love the waterslides and the Build-A-Raft Lazy River. You’ll also want to make time to walk through SEA LIFE Florida right in the entrance of LEGOLAND Florida — there are 3,000+ marine creatures in the 25 interactive exhibits. And we can’t forget about PEPPA PIG Theme Park Florida next door, a park designed with preschoolers in mind!

THE ADVENTURE CONTINUES ALL SUMMER LONG WITH THESE SPECIAL EVENTS:

Pig Family Travel Adventure at PEPPA PIG Theme Park Florida: Select Dates May 23-June 28

Join the Pig family on their first adventure around the world as a family of five! Grab your passport and explore fun activities like being an artist in France to building the Great Wall of China.

FIFA® World Cup 2026 Experience: June 11-July 19

Share a piece of the World Cup action at this celebration that’s packed with interactive games, epic LEGO brick builds and experiences inspired by LEGO soccer heroes.

Red, White and BOOM! for July 4th

Celebrate America’s 250th with extended park hours and an awesome DJ Dance party, and cap it all off with an unforgettable firework show that explodes into 3D LEGO® bricks!

LEGO® Festival: July 20-Aug. 16

Play takes center stage at this festival built for kids. You can expect all-new headliners and returning fan favorites in the Music, Creativity and Chill Out play zones.

WAYS TO SAVE:

We recommend subscribing to LEGOLAND Florida Resort’s email newsletter to stay up to date on special offers unveiled throughout the year! legoland.com/florida.

This fall, discover the Real Florida Magic in Central Florida. Make Camp Margaritaville RV Resort & Cabana Cabins your home base, and experience the best of the region, from world-famous parks and attractions to hidden local gems. Plan your stay at VisitCentralFlorida.com.

FLORIDA CHILDREN’S MUSEUM :: LAKELAND, FL

WESTGATE RIVER RANCH

CAMP MARGARITAVILLE :: AUBURNDALE, FL

Old Florida Attractions You Can Still Visit Today

by Laura Byrne

While there’s no doubt the arrival of Walt Disney World changed the landscape of tourism in Florida, the state’s beaches, natural springs, parks and weather have long attracted tourists here.

Back in the day (as our kids would accuse us of saying), it was roadside attractions that reigned supreme, and you can still visit many of these today with your kids! Here are some of our favorite spots:

WEEKI WACHEE SPRINGS STATE PARK: WEEKI WACHEE

The mermaids of Weeki Wachee Springs have been entertaining families for generations since 1947 when founder Perry Newton opened the park, introducing the choreographed underwater ballet that proved to be an instant hit. Here’s a fun fact — the mermaids didn’t actually get their ‘tails’ until the 1960s! Today, you can still watch the mermaids perform in the underwater theater. weekiwachee.com

HOMOSASSA SPRINGS STATE PARK: HOMOSASSA

Not too far from Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is Homosassa Springs State Park. Once known as “Nature’s Own Attraction,” it was home to various exotic animals, including the Ivan Tors Animal Actors. Today, you can visit one of those actors, Lu, a hippopotamus. The park is now owned and operated by the state as part of the Florida State Park system. floridastateparks.org

SUNKEN GARDENS: ST PETE

As one of the last remaining roadside attractions, the 100-year-old Sunken Gardens still inspires and leaves visitors in awe today. It was built in a drained ancient lakebed in 1911 by a plumber, George Turner, Sr. The rich soil allowed the hundreds of tropical plants and flowers to grow and thrive. It was such a sight to see that Turner began charging a nickel for tours in the 1930s. If you go today, you can still walk the garden paths, see the flock of flamingos and even visit Great Explorations Children’s Museum next door. sunkengardens.org

BOK TOWER GARDENS: LAKE WALES

Established in 1929, Bok Tower Gardens is a place to seek peace and tranquility and soak in the beauty of the gardens and wildlife. Originally known as Mountain Lake Sanctuary and Singing Tower, founder Edward W. Bok built it as a bird sanctuary near one of the highest points in Florida (295 feet above sea level). You can still enjoy the music from the carillon’s 60 bells today. A modern addition, the Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden, is a must-visit with the kids. It’s not too far from LEGOLAND Florida and worth adding to your itinerary. boktowergardens.org

CYPRESS GARDENS AT LEGOLAND FLORIDA RESORT: WINTER HAVEN

Speaking of LEGOLAND Florida, you’ll need a theme park ticket to visit Cypress Gardens, a botanical garden that was opened in 1939 by Dick Pope, Sr. and his wife Julia. It’s a nice respite from the hustle and bustle of the theme park. You can still walk some of the same pathways and bridges tourists walked many generations ago, but the park is best known for the waterski show that was introduced in the 1940s. Catch the thrills today in the current LEGO-themed Brickbeard’s Watersport Stunt Show. One of our favorite spots in the garden is the banyan tree, planted from a seedling in 1939! Legoland.com/florida

SARASOTA JUNGLE GARDENS: SARASOTA

Let’s head a little further south to Sarasota where we’ll visit yet another garden — are you noticing a trend here? Botanical gardens were quite the rage back in the day. Sarasota Jungle Gardens was built in the 1930s with thousands of plants and flowers from around the world. The bird shows were introduced in the 1970s. It is still a family owned and operated attraction today and is home to more than 200 animals. sarasotajunglegardens.com

GATORLAND: ORLANDO

Known as the “Alligator Capital of the World,” Gatorland has been attracting families since 1949, when it was built off Highway 17/92, then the state’s second most traveled highway. This was a chance for tourists to get up close to gators and reptiles. Today, the park has vastly expanded with a zip-line adventure over the alligator pit, a petting zoo, restaurants, splash pads, playgrounds and more. gatorland.com

by Jenny P. @LunchBoxMafia

NO-MESS CAR SNACKS

• Snackle boxes

• Wraps, pinwheels, mini sandwiches

• Protein bars (like Ready Nutrition, Perfect and Kind)

CAMP LUNCHBOX HEROES

• Balanced boxes = protein + fruit + fun treat.

• Dried fruit and store bought fruit cups are just fine.

• Take help from the freezer — Uncrustables are always welcome here.

PACKING TIPS

• Put your lunch bags to work. They’re great on the road.

• Double up on ice packs.

• Save condiment packets like ketchup, honey and syrup. They’re a game changer at snack time.

THEME PARK SURVIVAL SNACKS

• Heat-resistant foods (jerky and meat sticks)

• Hydration hacks — freeze juice pouches, add a pinch of pink Himalayan salt to regular water or swap to coconut water

• Salty + sweet combos for energy like dried mango, pretzels and apple sauce

CHICKENS!

A Most Egg-cellent Family Pet

by Laura Byrne

When the Hartneys of South Tampa aren’t at work or school, or blasting off to worlds far, far away in MOSI’s new “Above and Beyond” exhibit, our cover family is busy raising seven adorable Orpington hens. It wasn’t part of the plan to adopt chickens, but their youngest, Evie, was persistent in her request. She put together a PowerPoint presentation for her parents, backing up her case with plenty of research.

And she even checked with the City of Tampa to see what the rules are: It turns out they can have up to 10 hens — but no roosters. Nearly a year later, they have the freshest eggs on the block and a fun experience to share with you!

TBPM: Okay — how did you end up with these beautiful hens in your backyard?

Kim Hartney: So it was not our idea at all. It was our 10-year-old daughter. She was turning 10, and the only thing she asked for was … chickens. And we said, ‘How about a birthday party?’

She was really persistent. She researched which ones were heattolerant, which ones were the quietest, the cuddliest … and the ones that wanted to be held the most were definitely high on the criteria. And she said, “I want Orpingtons,” and we still said, “No.” But she remained really true to it.

And so on her birthday, we ended up getting baby chicks.

TBPM: What has the experience been like?

KH: I think they're a wonderful pet. Definitely, these are the most expensive eggs that we’ve ever had in our household. [Laughs]

TBPM: But they’re good eggs, right? Do they actually taste better than store-bought?

KH: Oh, yeah. We did a side-by-side taste test with the organic eggs, too.

Mark Hartney: We also went on YouTube and researched recipes for eggs: How many ways can you scramble an egg? How many ways can you fry an egg?

KH: Both the kids can now independently make eggs.

TBPM: How many eggs do you get each day from your hens?

KH: I would say, probably six eggs a day. We have seven hens, and we get six eggs a day, which she [daughter Evie] periodically goes and sells to unsuspecting neighbors.

TBPM: So she’s also honing her entrepreneurship skills, too!

MH: Yeah, I will say the price of the eggs varies — very odd market. [Laughs] If you're a friendly buyer and you talk to her for a while, eggs are very, very cheap. Sometimes someone overpays, and then they'll get cheaper eggs next time.

KH: Our neighbors' girls will come over now, like at 7.30 in the morning. They ring our doorbell and say, “Hey ... can we get some eggs?”

TBPM: You guys are good neighbors to have! What has it been like to see your daughter thrive with the responsibility of raising hens?

KH: Oh, it's been really great; it really has. It's a source of pride for her too, more so than I ever imagined. She loves her chickens, and the reluctant tween who had no interest in them is the first one to let them out every morning, to voice any worries — like hurricane preparedness plans and plans for when we go on vacation.

TBPM: It sounds like the kids are learning a lot of life lessons here.

KH: A lot of life lessons we did not expect. It's been a delight.

TBPM: It looks like raising chickens has been a fun family bonding experience, too.

KH: We routinely come out here … I'd say four nights a week … and sit with the chickens. They’re happy.

MH: We’ll bring them whatever's left over in the refrigerator. They are composters.

KH: Yeah, they’re omnivores. So they'll just eat everything.

TBPM: That’s another nice perk! So, nothing goes to waste in your fridge.

KH: Oh, yeah. They go crazy over all of our leftover fruit.

MH: We gave them some like potato salad, and their beaks were covered in mayonnaise. It was funny because they were wiping their beaks on the grass, and then they came over, and they wiped it on our shoe and our shirt, and then they're like, “ Okay, I'm back to it.”

TBPM: Compared to other pets, what has raising backyard chickens been like?

KH: It feels different than a dog or a cat. They do reside outside, and you can bring them in to watch TV, but it's kind of nice for families who have allergies. There's certainly no allergens there. So it's delightful.

TBPM: They came out to you right away. They must like you guys!

KH:They prefer to be around you. They really do! Most of the time when we're in the house, they sit there, and they watch for us.

MH: Their eyes must be better than I give them credit for because I feel like they can see into the house.

TBPM: Did you ever imagine this would be your life, harvesting freshly laid eggs every day?

KH: I didn’t see myself here, in South Tampa with chickens, but I’m glad we’re here! [Laughs]

WANT TO GET CHICKENS, TOO?

Do your research as Evie did! Check with your municipality, county and/or your HOA to see what’s allowed. The rules vary city to city in Tampa Bay, and many HOAs do not allow them. You also want to make sure you have plenty of space for the chickens and the right equipment, such as a coop to protect them from predators and manage heat.

Buy your chickens from a trusted source. The Hartneys say they bought theirs at a local Tractor Supply Co store.

Let’s Go Analog with Sunshine Needlepoint!

by Laura Byrne

To witness the resurgence of needlepoint in action, simply step inside the new Sunshine Needlepoint store in Ybor City.

We were there in the middle of the day during a typical week, and it was bustling with people — not just women spanning all generations, but dutiful husbands too. In an age when screens seem to dominate our focus, it was nice to see people putting the technology away, reconnecting with this age-old art form and meeting fellow enthusiasts in real life.

This is the whole point of Sunshine Needlepoint, and why Heather Barrow and her longtime friends Elizabeth Lee and Courtney Lang tell us they opened their brick and mortar store. They did it to give people a chance to slow down, go analog and create something really beautiful with their hands — and, if the science is correct, take advantage of the brain-boosting benefits too.

TBPM: What inspired Sunshine Needlepoint?

Heather Barrow: Sunshine Needlepoint grew out of a longtime friendship and a shared love of needlepoint, design and community. We wanted to create a modern needlepoint studio in Tampa that felt colorful, welcoming and approachable for both longtime stitchers and complete beginners.

Opening in Ybor City felt especially meaningful because of the neighborhood’s history rooted in creativity and artistry. As Ybor continues evolving into a creative destination filled with local businesses and people who appreciate handmade collectible pieces, we felt like a needlepoint shop fit naturally into that energy.

TBPM: When did each of you first learn how to needlepoint?

HB: Needlepoint has been part of all of our lives in different ways. Elizabeth learned from her mother when she was young and has stitched ever since. Courtney grew up surrounded by needlepoint thanks to her mother and grandmothers and started stitching herself in high school. I learned needlepoint and sewing from my grandmother growing up, then rediscovered needlepoint more recently during recovery from a surgery.

Even though our paths looked different, we all connected over the feeling of slowing down and creating something by hand.

TBPM: For those who are unfamiliar, what exactly is needlepoint, and is it hard to learn?

HB: Needlepoint is a form of hand embroidery stitched on a painted canvas using fibers like wool, cotton or silk threads. Most people start

with a basic tent stitch, which makes it surprisingly beginner-friendly.

A lot of people assume needlepoint is difficult or old-fashioned, but it’s actually very relaxing and approachable. You don’t need to be artistic to enjoy it, and many people are surprised by how calming and rewarding it becomes once they get started.

TBPM: Why do you think it has regained popularity? What feedback do you hear from your own customers?

HB: People are craving hobbies that help them slow down and step away from screens. Needlepoint gives you a creative outlet that feels relaxing but also rewarding because you’re making something by hand. We also think the designs have evolved a lot. Today’s canvases feel colorful, modern, playful and personal.

A lot of our customers tell us stitching helps with stress and anxiety, or that it’s become part of their nightly routine after the kids go to bed. We also see younger generations embracing it socially, friends stitching together, mothers and daughters learning together, even people bringing projects on trips or to sporting events. On opening day, we even had several younger passengers stop in (with their luggage) before heading to Channelside to board their cruise ship.

TBPM: Tell us about the canvas designs! They are all so beautiful and locally inspired.

HB: Thank you! A lot of our inspiration comes directly from Tampa and Florida life. We pull from the colors, history, landmarks and details that make this area feel special, everything

Sunshine Needlepoint owners: Elizabeth Lee, Courtney Lang and Heather Barrow

from Ybor City and Gasparilla to citrus, coastal colors, palm trees and vintage Florida charm.

We want the designs to feel artistic and elevated while still being fun and approachable. The architecture and history in Ybor also inspire much of what we create.

TBPM: What can people create out of their needlepoint canvases?

HB: Almost anything! Finished needlepoint can become ornaments, pillows, acrylic trays, coasters, handbags, key fobs, belts, stockings, framed artwork, door hangers and more. That’s one of the things people love most about it: You’re creating something both beautiful and functional that can become part of your home or a meaningful keepsake.

TBPM: You also teamed up with local artists. Tell us why that was so important and what that means to you.

HB: Supporting local artists has been important to us from the beginning. Through Sunshine Needlepoint Collective, we partner with artists to translate their work into needlepoint canvases, which allows us to offer designs that feel original and deeply connected to Florida and Tampa.

We’re also excited to partner with local museums, businesses and iconic Tampa brands to bring their stories and identities into the needlepoint world. The Columbia Restaurant sign and Sangria Pitcher canvases are two of our most popular canvases. We can’t even keep them in stock. There’s just something special about turning places and brands people already love into hand-stitched pieces that feel personal and collectible.

TBPM: What are some basic tools someone would need to get started with needlepoint?

HB: The basics are actually very simple: a canvas, thread, needles, a needle threader, scissors and a project bag to keep everything organized. One of the nice things about needlepoint is that you can start small and build your collection of supplies over time.

TBPM: Will you be offering classes or other get-togethers?

HB: Definitely. Community has always been a huge part of our vision for Sunshine Needlepoint. We plan to offer beginner, finishing, canvas painting and advanced stitching classes, along with stitch clubs, private events and casual get-togethers where people can bring their projects and stitch together. We want the shop to feel more like a creative gathering space than just a store.

TBPM: What makes the needlepoint community so special, abroad and even here in Tampa Bay?

HB: The needlepoint community is genuinely one of the kindest and most welcoming groups of people. People love helping each other learn, share ideas and celebrate creativity, and it’s a hobby that naturally creates connections across generations and backgrounds.

We’ve already seen that here in Ybor. People are excited to gather, learn something new and build friendships around a shared creative outlet. As the neighborhood continues evolving into a hub for local creatives and small businesses, we’re excited to create a space where people can slow down and connect with one another.

TBPM: Anything else you’d like to add?

HB: We’re very grateful for how supportive Tampa has been already. Opening Sunshine Needlepoint has been a labor of love, and it’s been so rewarding to see people of all ages excited about stitching.

We feel especially lucky to be part of Ybor City during such an exciting period of growth and creativity for the neighborhood. Our goal is to make needlepoint feel approachable, inspiring and joyful while introducing a whole new generation to a hobby they’ll hopefully love for years to come.

But wait, there’s MORE!

Needlepoint is not the only analog activity trending in Tampa Bay! We’re sharing even more ways to get off the screens and get crafty with friends and the kids. So put the phone down, get out there and create something beautiful!

What to Know About Hurricane Season 2026

Forecast changes, AI Models and more with Tampa Bay 28's Denis Phillips

by Brie Gorecki

Hurricane season begins on June 1 and ends on Nov. 30, which means it's time to start prepping for any possible storms that may head our way this year.

Lucky for us, last year’s hurricane season went easy on the Tampa Bay area after the devastating impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024. This year, hurricane predictions might look a little different due to some changes in forecast maps made by the National Hurricane Center. We spoke to Tampa Bay 28’s Chief Meteorologist, Denis Phillips, about the impacts of these changes and the benefits of AI models.

TBPM: The National Hurricane Center recently came out with new forecast cone changes and changes in the hurricane prediction maps. Can you tell us more about that?

DP: The main differences are that they are now focusing on inland areas as opposed to just the coast. Like when you would get a hurricane or tropical storm warning, most of the impacts would usually be along the

coastal areas, specifically storm surge. But they've obviously realized that storms that cut across the state can have a really large impact. Maybe not so much the surge, but flooding and certainly wind across the inland areas.

So now the new cones and the new watch and warning tracks will include inland areas for those warnings as well, to try to specify what areas inland will get in addition to the coastal areas.

TBPM: What causes evacuation zones to change?

DP: Evacuation zones change year to year. That is completely dependent on what the emergency management folks in a particular county decide to do. People might say, and this is a valid argument, “How the heck is my flood zone changing so dramatically when nothing else has really changed?” It's a valid question. The problem isn't that the weather has changed or that the threat of a hurricane has changed. The problem is that our population has changed.

And because there are now so many more people in areas that didn't use to be in certain areas, EOC's responsibility in getting them out safely is changing. And they might very well decide that one area would be safer to stay put than to get on the roads with a million other people and cause even bigger problems.

So, it isn't always about the threat of a storm or landfall when the evacuation zones change or the flood zones change. It often has more to do with the population and dynamics of that area, as opposed to who will flood and who won't.

TBPM: How active is the 2026 hurricane season expected to be?

DP: I've never been a fan of long-range hurricane forecasts. I think they're a waste of time. And I think they somewhat can be misleading in a lot of ways in the sense that, let's say, the predicted number of storms is below average, which is what it's going to be this year.

But you've heard it once — you've heard it a thousand times. It doesn't matter where, or it doesn't matter how many storms form. It just matters if they impact you directly. And when they say there's a slower-thanaverage season, there probably will be for several reasons. But it only takes one. Think back in the early ‘90s, back in 1992, we only had six named storms that year, and the first one wasn't until the middle of August. So … it was a very slow year. But if you ask people in South Florida if ‘92 was a slow year, they'd probably argue with you — because that was the year they had Hurricane Andrew.

I've done a lot of research on this. There's absolutely nothing to show that the odds of us being impacted one way or another by a hurricane, whether it's an active or inactive season.

On the west coast of Florida, if you go back in history, there's absolutely no relationship between the actual number of named storms that form and the impacts on our area. A lot of times, we have had our direct impacts when it has been a below-average season because Gulf storms form differently than storms out in the tropical Atlantic. The Gulf water has a huge, huge part of that.

TBPM: What could impact this year’s storms?

DP: The people who are predicting it will be a quieter-than-normal year are pointing to an El Niño … historically, an El Niño does mean we see fewer overall named storms. Other variables that come into play are the Saharan Desert and the dust that comes off Africa. That can have an impact.

A lot of other things come into play. But overall, the numbers are expected to be a little bit below average, and the average is about 15. But if we get 12 or 13, that doesn't mean we can't have a direct hit with a Cat 3 or Cat 4 in our area.

TBPM: What are your thoughts on the AI-driven forecast models?

DP: The whole premise of an AI model is one that I agree with wholeheartedly. People used to make long-range forecasts during hurricane season based on what they called analogs. They would look at what they thought the overall setup of a weather pattern in the summer would be, and then they would go back and look at years when there were similar patterns. They would look and see how many hurricanes formed and where they formed but it wasn't amazingly accurate. But that's honestly how the long-range forecast started going. They started using analogs and comparing the past to the present and coming up with a forecast. That's really all that the AI models do.

The Google Deep Earth model and the European AI model were both exceptional last year in forecasting some of the best models on earth. What they do is they take their regular forecast-driven model data that would go out a couple of weeks or so. And then they take it, and they put every bit of data in the computer that they've had over the last 75 years. They put in the current situation, and maybe what the forecast is for the next few weeks, and that computer goes in and tries to find another time in history, where it was very similar to what it is now, and comes up with a forecast. And it’s amazingly accurate.

It makes sense to me because if the atmosphere is chaotic, it's always changing. The last couple of years, with the AI data and the AI mapping, it has been amazingly accurate, really, helpful in forecasting.

TBPM: Can you explain the difference between hurricane hunters and storm chasers?

DP: The hurricane hunters are through NOAA, through the Air Force. Those are the official hurricane hunters. They fly out of Lakeland, and they fly out of several spots in the country and use government and military planes to fly into the storm to get data that is gathered and then fed into the models.

So, for all the hurricane models that we use, the majority of that data comes from the hurricane hunters. They'll fly in, they'll gather data, and that data then goes into the models, and we come up with a forecast. That's what the official hurricane hunters do.

Storm chasers are entirely different. They are people who do it on their own, like the movie “Twisters.” They have people who run tours that go out and do them because they love it. They'll use their social media to do it and then go live and do a live broadcast, and sometimes make money off it.

But the ones that the government and the military run are the ones that are used for the data in the models. The other ones are in it for the actual thrill and excitement.

Moms to Know

Jenny Hales

Vice

President of Operations, Grateful Hospitality

by Maggie Rodriguez, co-host of Daytime on WFLA

Fifteen minutes before the doors of Hales Blackbrick open, the staff of the popular South Tampa restaurant gathers for a motivational meeting. “It’s really a pep talk before a busy dinner service,” says co-owner Jenny Hales. “We have something in our company called grateful armor, and we like to touch on that in those meetings. It helps keep everyone centered.”

Gratitude has been the primary guiding force for Jenny and her husband, celebrity chef Richard Hales, ever since 2011 when he was diagnosed with a benign brain tumor and later thyroid cancer. He had three surgeries in less than six months.

“Those health scares changed us deeply. They gave us an even greater sense of perspective and gratitude, and that is where the name Grateful Hospitality really comes from.”

TBPM: What do you do in your role as VP of Operations for Grateful Hospitality?

JH: I do a little bit of everything and then some. I’ve always been my husband’s right hand since our first restaurant opened in 2009. I was always in more of a behind-the-scenes support role for the restaurants, handling administration, payroll, bookkeeping, human resources, special events and so much more.

When we moved to Tampa in 2020 and opened Blackbrick Tampa in 2022, I told Richard I wanted to take a real stab at helping inside the restaurant. He asked me if I was sure because I had seen over the years just how hard he worked and how many hours it took. But I didn’t hesitate. Since then, I’ve been involved in every aspect of our operations here in Tampa. I helped open both restaurant locations and run them, and I’ve been the acting GM since we opened.

TBPM: And not just on the business side. You also serenade diners occasionally. When did you discover your singing talent?

JH: I’ve been playing classical piano since I was about 8 years old, and I started singing a few years after that, once I discovered I could. I never pursued music as a career because I always knew I wanted to be a stay-athome mom someday, and I felt that path would not really allow for that. But now I get to sing to our guests at the restaurant all the time. I’ve become known as the birthday and anniversary singer, and I do it with love because it brings me so much joy.

TBPM: The restaurant business is known for being demanding. How do you meet those demands while still being the kind of mother you want to be to your teenagers, Lily and Violet?

JH: I try to be very efficient with my time at the restaurant so I can be home as much as possible. During the week, I work Tuesday evenings while

stays home with the girls. We’re both home on Mondays and Wednesdays, and then we both work on the weekends. Sundays are our family day. We go to church together, eat together and spend the whole day with the girls. We do that consistently.

So we really do spend a lot more time with them now. These high school years are crazy because they are so busy, but I love it, and I’m trying to enjoy every second because I know it goes by way too quickly.

TBPM: It’s obvious that you and Richard are very much a team — close at work and as spouses. Why is it so important to you?

JH: We are more than a team. We are truly more like one person, and that is such a blessing because I know that is not the case for many spouses. But we wouldn’t have it any other way.

We have always been very close, but opening these businesses together and walking through difficult personal moments together has only brought us closer. We are Christians, and we have realized that putting God first in our marriage and in our relationship has made us closer than we have ever been.

So it is not just important to us, it is everything. It is the foundation of our lives, our marriage and our family unit.

We are continuing with this column in memory of Julie Tingley, our friend and creator of our Moms to Know and Kids to Know pages, who passed away on April 6, 2025. Julie Tingley's Legacy of Love: givesendgo.com/GFGT6

photos courtesy of Jenny Halea

Richard

University • Carnegie Mellon University • Case Western Reserve University • Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina

Colorado College • Duke University • Eckerd College • Elon University • Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona

Florida A&M University • Fordham University • George Mason University • George Washington University • Georgetown versity • Indiana University Bloomington • Iowa State University of Science and Technology • Ithaca College • Louisiana

University Chicago • Marquette University

• Michigan State University • Mississippi State University • Northeastern University

University • Pennsylvania State University • Purdue University • Rhodes College • Rochester Institute of Technology • Rollins

Methodist University • Syracuse University • Temple University • The Ohio State University • The University of Tampa • Dallas • Trinity College Dublin • University of Alabama • University of Arizona • University of Central Florida • University

University of Connecticut • University of Delaware • University of Florida • University of Georgia • University of Iowa •

University of Louisville • University of Maryland • University of Massachusetts • University of Miam • University of Minnesota sissippi • University of Missouri • University of North Carolina • University of North Florida • University of Notre Dame

University of Pittsburgh • University of South Carolina • University of South Florida • University of Tennessee, Knoxville

University of Washington • Vassar College • Villanova University • Virginia Tech • Wake Forest University • Washington 2 0 2 6

Swara Nirav Patel Kids to Know:

by Tara Payor, Ph.D.

Swara Nirav Patel, a rising senior at Carrollwood Day School, is passionate about conservation, leadership and community impact. Swara, who gave a TEDx Talk at 15, was recently honored with the 2026 Young Women of Promise Award by the Athena Society — a recognition awarded to just 10 junior girls from students across Hillsborough County. Swara shares more about her passions, goals and the work she’s doing to make a difference in the Tampa Bay community.

TBPM: What first got you interested in climate issues?

SP: I remember weekly visits to the The Florida Aquarium when I was little. I was glued to the glass, staring at the vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish. It felt like stepping into “The Little Mermaid.”

But during my first dive trip to the Florida Keys, I saw something completely different. The corals were pale and bleached, and the reef felt eerily empty. It looked like an abandoned city. That was the moment I realized the environmental crisis wasn’t something far away or in the future. It was happening right now.

TBPM: Have you always wanted to make a difference?

SP: Yes. I’ve always loved science and research, but seeing the reef firsthand changed me from an observer into an advocate. Since then, many of my science projects have focused on freshwater security and environmental solutions. I’ve also worked on local conservation efforts, including helping lead cleanups for a floating debris barrier on the Anclote River and training community volunteers to participate in cleanups.

TBPM: In your talk, you mention climate anxiety. When did you first notice that?

SP: In second grade, I remember hearing headlines about water shortages and species disappearing, and I took those predictions literally. I genuinely worried there would be no water left one day.

I think a lot of kids today feel overwhelmed because we grew up constantly hearing about climate change, but we don’t always feel like we have control over the outcome. Living in Florida makes it feel especially real because we see stronger hurricanes, more flooding and damaged ecosystems happening in real time.

TBPM: You talk about shifting from worry to action. What does that look like?

SP: For me, action became the antidote to anxiety. Research taught me that real solutions do exist, and conservation work made me feel like I was actually contributing.

The anxiety does not disappear, but it stops being paralysis and starts becoming fuel.

I also learned that doing this work with other people matters. The moment I started working alongside peers who cared about the same things, the weight became more manageable.

TBPM: What’s one small change a middle schooler could make today that matters?

SP: Pick up 10 pieces of trash every time you go to the beach. It takes only a few minutes, but small actions add up. Marine debris is one of the biggest threats to Florida’s ecosystems, and plastic eventually breaks down into microplastics that harm marine life.

More importantly, when you stop walking past the problem and start helping, it changes the way you see your role in the environment.

TBPM: How do you stay hopeful when the problem feels so big?

SP: Hope comes through action. When I revisit coral fragments I helped attach to reef structures and see them growing, it reminds me that recovery is possible. Nature is more resilient than we think if people are willing to help protect it.

The reef doesn’t need one person to fix everything. It just needs enough people to keep showing up so it has a fighting chance.

TBPM: What’s your biggest goal for the future?

SP: I want to become an environmental engineer and study environmental policy so I can help design solutions communities can realistically implement. I also want young people to have a seat at the table when environmental decisions are being made, because we’re the generation that will live with those outcomes the longest.

Listen to her TEDx talk here: youtube.com/watch?v=8_SXWTj2Zhc

We are continuing with this column in memory of Julie Tingley, our friend and creator of our Moms to Know and Kids to Know pages, who passed away on April 6, 2025. Julie Tingley's Legacy of Love: givesendgo.com/GFGT6

Scan to find out more about Patel Conservatory and to view the summer brochure!

Scan to secure your seat today!

REIMAGINE

MIDDLE SCHOOL

Summer Digital Detox: Explore with Maps

by Kath Olsen

Summer is the perfect time to help children unplug and discover the world around them. Exploring a physical map builds spatial awareness, strengthens navigation skills and encourages kids to see themselves as part of a larger community. These engaging books introduce map-reading and ideas for exploration for younger elementary-aged children.

Me on the Map

A child describes how her room, her house, her town, her state and her country become part of a map of her world. Readers will learn that even simple drawings can be maps.

Where Do I Live? A First Look at Geography and Community for Children

You live in your home … but where is your home? It’s in your neighborhood … but where is your neighborhood? It’s in your town, which is in your state, which is in North America, which is on the planet Earth, etcetra!

There’s a Map in My Lap, All About Maps

The Cat in the Hat teaches Dick and Sally about map making and many ways people use them.

Mapping Sam: A Book about What is Where and How to Get From Here to There

An adventurous cat named Sam explores her neighborhood at night, and maps of all types reveal her journey, illuminating different points of view and the various spots Sam visits.

Maptastic! Reimagine the World, One Map at A Time Learn where on Earth you would find the most money, the deadliest animals, the strangest place names or the best place to see a tornado or a volcano.

Rosie’s Walk

Scrambled States of America

The states decide to get together and put on a show featuring their particular talents in a text that includes facts about the history and geography of each state.

The Maps Book, The Ultimate Guide to the History and Use of Maps

Explore the amazing world of maps from the first sketches on cave walls to realtime maps on phones. Discover their incredible history and marvel at the variety of maps, even maps from video games.

Fox is after Rosie, but Rosie doesn't know it. Unwittingly, she leads him into one disaster after the other, each funnier than the last. Simple illustrations offer a fun opportunity to talk about direction and movement across a visual space.

Bayshore Christian School Purchases 3909 S. MacDill Ave.

by Bayshore Christian School

Every day, cars travel on South MacDill Avenue and drive past 3909 without a second glance. Some may not even know that a school resides at this address. What people don’t see is the 10 acres stretching beyond the first impression that are filled with opportunity and community. They don’t see who we are, what we offer or the experiences unfolding just out of view. For 54 years, Bayshore Christian School (BCS) stands with a long history, lasting legacy and a future with infinite possibilities.

Since our founding in 1971, God has been faithful in every season of our story. He has carried our community through moments of growth, challenge and uncertainty.

At the heart of BCS is a ministry that reaches far beyond the classroom. We believe in the transformative power of a Christ-centered education that challenges, develops and empowers students to grow in wisdom, character and a personal relationship with Christ. BCS offers a comprehensive college preparatory program, including leadership development, academics, athletics and the arts, for students 2 years old through 12th grade. While we pursue excellence in academics, we never lose sight that our greatest mission is eternity with Jesus Christ.

BCS has called 3909 S. MacDill Ave. home for 54 years, and generations of Faith Warriors have left their footprints on our campus. In 2016, after

the church on the property closed, questions arose regarding longterm use and control over the property. This resulted in a 10-year legal struggle over the property rights and occupancy. The concern was never about the school’s mission, finances or educational integrity, but about the physical location. During this time, faith guided our school leadership’s planning, but the Lord established our steps.

In November 2025, God opened doors that once seemed shut. Mediation began with hopes of finally ending one chapter and beginning a new one. On April 28, 2026, after years of prayer, perseverance and faithful waiting, BCS purchased and closed on the entire property. This home now belongs to us forever.

To carry forward our history while building our future is something we hold with deep gratitude. God’s promises never fail. Because of His faithfulness, we are here. By His grace, we are here to stay. On our gymnasium wall, “Expect a Miracle” is written boldly for all to see. This miracle was one that was prayed for and made possible by and through Him.

As we continue His work and bring our vision to life, we look forward to moving ahead together as one community, welcoming new students while walking alongside our current students into the bright future God has prepared for us.

Getting to Know HCPS

Hillsborough County Public Schools is the 3rd-largest school district in the state and 7th-largest in the nation. The school district continues to be the #1 choice for families in the county to educate their children.

218,000+

Hillsborough County Public School Students

Total K-12 Public Schools

23,000+

Employees, including more than 12,000 teachers

78,000

Students transported by bus to school each day

233 2024-2025 academic year 92.8%

At the Y, we proudly offer exceptional childcare services with over a decade of experience and 14 licensed locations. We’re excited to introduce our new Licensed Preschool Programs, led by certified staff and featuring an evidence-based curriculum to support every child’s social, emotional, and physical well-being.

REGISTER TODAY OR REQUEST A TOUR!

A Summer to Slow Down: Finding Joy in Family Moments at the YMCA

by Jennifer Wainman, Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA

Summer in Tampa Bay has a way of slipping by quickly, filled with busy schedules, endless activities and days that seem to fly past. This year, the YMCA encourages families to pause and make the most of the moments that matter.

At the Y, summer becomes a chance to reconnect. It might be a carefree afternoon at the pool, where kids laugh and splash while parents relax nearby, enjoying a break from the usual rush. These simple moments, shared smiles, playful energy and time spent together are often the ones families remember most. And in a place designed for everyone, those moments come naturally.

The Y also offers a variety of family-friendly events and activities designed to bring people together. Whether it’s joining a family 5k race, participating in a weekend event or just spending unstructured time in a welcoming space, families can unplug and focus on what’s important, each other. These experiences create opportunities to meet neighbors, build friendships and feel part of something bigger than a daily routine.

Parents can also find time to recharge, knowing their children are safe, engaged and having a great time. With summer camps, swim lessons and youth sports programs, kids stay active, build confidence and create friendships in a supportive environment. They’re not just staying busy, they’re discovering new interests, gaining independence and building skills that last well beyond the summer months. It’s a balance that allows everyone in the family to benefit. Kids are thriving and parents can take welldeserved moments for themselves.

For those looking to enjoy a night out, Parents’ Night Out provides the perfect opportunity. Parents can step away for a few hours to enjoy a summer evening, whether that’s a relaxing dinner, a sunset walk or uninterrupted conversation. Children are cared for in a safe, fun setting. The kids will enjoy a theme night with structured activities like art projects, a movie, game night or open gym. It is a win for the whole family!

Beyond programs and activities, the YMCA remains rooted in its mission to strengthen the community. Throughout the summer, families who walk through the doors are also helping ensure that others have access to the same opportunities, from swim lessons that teach lifesaving skills to programs that support youth development and overall wellness.

This summer, the Tampa YMCA is more than just a place to go, it’s a place to slow down, reconnect and create lasting memories. Because in the end, it’s not about how much you fit into your schedule, but how fully you experience the time you share.

Take a moment. Stay a little longer. And enjoy everything summer can be at the YMCA.

How We Suppor t Families Naviga ting Autism:

Age 3-5: Ear ly identifica tion, screening, and refer ra ls

Kindergar ten-8th: Screening and behaviora l inter ventions

Families: Support and intervention services for parents/caregivers

Additional Services Include:

Nine-week in-home intervention services

Bilingual Services (Spanish)

Individual Behavior Plans

Referrals to appropriate community resources, including professional services for vision, hearing, and speech

For additonal information, please contact: Referral line: (813) 447-8108

Referral e-mail: jrsmith@fectampa.org

THE IMPORTANCE OF EARLY DENTAL CARE

with McIlwain Dental Specialists

Did you know your child’s first dental visit can happen as soon as their first birthday, and orthodontic care can begin as early as 7 years old? While it seems young for these first big appointments, there’s a good reason for it. We’re digging into the details with our friend, Dr. Mary Awadallah of McIlwain Dental Specialists. We’re also finding out that if your child does end up with a cavity, treating it doesn’t have to hurt.

TBPM: When should a child have their first dental checkup?

Dr. Mary Awadallah: A child should be seen for their first dental checkup by age 1 or within six months of their first tooth coming in, whichever comes first.

TBPM: Why do they have to be seen at such a young age?

MA: To ensure good dental health, but more importantly, to build good habits, get comfortable at the dentist and get in the habit of caring for their oral health. We make early dental visits easy and fun for the little ones, giving them lots of positive encouragement, as well as prizes, toys and balloons!

TBPM: What are the common dental issues you see in young kids, and how can we as parents prevent them?

MA: Cavities from frequent snacking, sugary drinks and brushing whose technique needs improvement. Falling asleep with a bottle of milk or juice is a big culprit!

TBPM: Any advice on the dental tools we’ve seen for kids? Are those cute flossing picks really worth it? Are mouthwashes necessary for kids?

MA: The nice thing about dentistry is it's accessible! Simply, good and thorough brushing with basic flossing can work great. But for little ones, it's nice to make dental hygiene fun! Flossing picks can work great to prevent flossing cavities (the ones that occur between teeth), and now they have ones with fluoride for extra tooth love and flavors for extra fun. Fruity toothpastes also encourage brushing. It's all about building good habits.

TBPM: Talk to us about how lasers are being used to treat cavities and other ways technology is making dental care more comfortable for patients.

MA: Laser treatment makes dentistry so quick and easy for kids with no anesthesia shots needed. The laser works to gently wear away the decayed tooth material, and once filled, the tooth is restored to health.

MEET THE DOCTORS

TBPM: Tell us more about your pediatric dental team!

MA: We have two children's dentists and two orthodontists, one male and one female for both specialties, allowing patients of all preferences to connect to the doctors. Our doctors are gentle, warm and friendly to make every visit fun and lighthearted.

TBPM: You and Dr. Ahrens handle pediatric orthodontic care. There are so many options nowadays for families! Tell us what you offer.

MA: Early interceptive treatment with expansion has revolutionized orthodontics, alleviating crowding and preventing extractions of adult teeth, avoiding problems with tooth eruption, modifying the growth of the jaws when needed and increasing airway volume, leading to improved breathing and sleep.

We build relationships with patients from when they're first seen for an orthodontic evaluation around age 7, as recommended by the American Association of Orthodontics, so that we monitor throughout the patient's growth, whether they need early treatment or can wait until treatment later on. We also end up seeing siblings and sometimes parents of patients, so we really get to know families well for many years.

TBPM: The office offers dental and orthodontic care for all ages. Why is this so important to local families?

MA: It makes it so easy for families to have everything in-house. Orthodontic wires can be removed, and the teeth cleaning and exam, as well as the orthodontic appointment, can get done with wire replacement all at one time, in one place. The orthodontists and children's dentists also confer to provide the most optimal and seamless care.

TBPM: If families do not have dental insurance, the office also offers a membership program, right?

MA: We do! For a small monthly fee, patients receive bi-annual dental cleanings, bi-annual doctor exams, cavity checking x-rays annually and discounts on any necessary treatment. It's even better than insurance.

ARTIST SHOUTOUT!

Did you know that all the artwork in McIlwain Dentistry was created by South Tampa artist, Meg Britten? She’s a mixed media artist whose colorful and illustrative “Florida” inspired pieces won us over at a recent cleaning. megbrittenart.com

Pedicatric Dentistry Team: Dr. Jerry Copeland and Dr. Kara Ford

Orthodontic Team:

Dr. Matthew Ahrens and Dr. Mary Awadallah General Dentistry Team:

Justin Mitchell and Dr. Becky Warnken

Sunshine, Smiles & Dairy Delights: Celebrating National Dairy Month in Florida

June is National Dairy Month, a time to celebrate the nutritious foods and dedicated farm families that help nourish communities across the country. For Florida parents, it’s also the perfect opportunity to recognize the important role dairy foods play in supporting growing children — and to appreciate the hardworking Florida dairy farmers who produce fresh milk and dairy products close to home.

From breakfast before summer camp to afternoon snacks after pool time, dairy foods like milk, cheese and yogurt are simple, nutritious options that fit naturally into busy family life. Packed with important nutrients including calcium, vitamin D, potassium and protein, dairy products help support strong bones, healthy muscles and overall growth during childhood and adolescence.

Nutrition experts recommend that children include dairy as part of a balanced diet because many kids and teens do not get enough calcium or vitamin D in their daily meals. Just one serving of milk or yogurt provides nutrients that help fuel active lifestyles and support long-term health. For younger children, dairy foods can also help establish healthy eating habits early — habits that often continue into adulthood.

One of the best things about dairy is how easy it is to incorporate into family meals. Parents can blend yogurt into fruit smoothies for quick breakfasts, add cheese to vegetables or whole-grain sandwiches, or

serve chocolate milk as a refreshing recovery drink after sports and outdoor activities. Frozen yogurt bars, cheese sticks and parfaits are also easy summer snacks that kids enjoy while still delivering important nutrition.

National Dairy Month also shines a spotlight on Florida’s dairy farmers, many of whom are multi-generational family businesses committed to caring for their animals, protecting natural resources and producing high-quality milk. Florida dairy farmers work 365 days a year — often starting before sunrise — to ensure cows are healthy and comfortable, especially during the state’s hot summer months.

Summer is also the perfect season for dairy-inspired family fun. Create a “build-your-own yogurt parfait” station at home, make fruit smoothies together or enjoy homemade milkshakes after a beach day. Even simple moments — pizza night with extra cheese, ice cream after a baseball game or pancakes topped with yogurt on a weekend morning — can become lasting family traditions.

This National Dairy Month, Florida families can celebrate the goodness of dairy by choosing nutritious foods, supporting local dairy farmers and enjoying the moments that bring loved ones together around the table. So, pour a cold glass of milk, enjoy a scoop of ice cream and raise a toast to the Florida dairy farm families who help nourish our communities every day.

Bump and Beyond Little Bellies, Big Nutrition: Infant Feeding and Nutrition Made Simple

On April 4, 2026, the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (DOHHillsborough) was delighted to host the third annual “Bump and Beyond” event at the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County. This bright and welcoming event was dedicated to supporting expecting and new parents throughout our community, and brought together families, caregivers and local partners for a joyful gathering centered on healthy beginnings and confident parenting.

“Bump and Beyond” served an important purpose. With Hillsborough County continuing to experience higher rates of preterm births and low birth weights, early education and accessible support play a critical role in helping families thrive. Good nutrition and nurturing care during infancy lay the foundation for lifelong health, and we are proud to help families build that foundation with confidence and joy.

From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere was welcoming and full of meaningful connections. Parents visited interactive stations, received practical guidance, and spoke one-on-one with experts in infant nutrition and early development. Our Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program team and breastfeeding support staff offered personalized assistance, helping families feel informed, supported, and empowered in their feeding journey.

More than 34 attendees joined us throughout the morning. Families shared their appreciation for having reliable information and caring professionals all in one place, especially during such an important chapter of their lives. Laughter, learning and lively conversations filled the room, highlighting the strong sense of community that makes this event so special each year.

To those who joined us — thank you for making “Bump and Beyond 2026” such a heartwarming success. And if you weren’t able to attend this year, we’re already looking forward to welcoming you to “Bump and Beyond 2027.”

Karen GonzalezMedina, Holliston Wagner, Melissa Corbo-Gonzalez, Martha Nava Ortiz, Rosa Ontiveros, Marissa Khan, Dr. Fred Hicks, Rachel Chase, Joel Yap, & Wynton Geary.

by Rosa Ontiveros

The "Bump and Beyond" planning committee.

All parents left with a diaper bag that doubles as a travel bassinet.

Heart Checks

BayCare Offers Student Athletes Quick-and-Easy EKGs to Comply with New State Laws

by Anu Varma Panchal

It takes 10 seconds, is painless, and involves little more than stickers on your chest — but an electrocardiogram (EKG) can save your life.

Still, if you’re a Florida parent of a rising high school freshman, you may be asking yourself: “Why does my teenager have to have one?” After all, many parents have never done one yet!

Well, if you’re a student athlete, it’s the law.

Florida’s Second Chance Act, which was passed last July, mandates EKGs for student athletes who are entering ninth grade in the 2026-27 school year (although children who start playing sports intensely even earlier, such as by age 12, can also benefit). And BayCare makes it easy for parents to comply, by partnering with the nonprofit Who We Play For and offering expanded access to EKGs through summer screening events and easy-to-obtain appointments at select BayCare Medical Group offices.

“We look at our preteens and teenagers as generally healthy — heart problems are reserved for grandmothers and grandfathers rather than our children!” says BayCare Kids Cardiologist Dr. Kelvin Lau. “Unfortunately, that’s definitely not the case. A lot of times, heart conditions sneak up on kids and make headlines when something devastating happens.”

Lau shares that while more than 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside the hospital, more than 10,000 of those occur in those under age 25, resulting in 1,500 deaths in this age group.

“We believe these cardiac deaths could be preventable,” says Lau. “The difficult thing is trying to catch them. Ninety percent of underlying heart issues could be missed with just a patient history or an exam. But an EKG is a way to improve our sensitivity, and increase our chance of capturing devastating cardiac illnesses.”

Lau explains that about two thirds of all sudden cardiac deaths are associated with conditions that result in some sort of arrhythmia. Other causes of major heart issues include cardiomyopathy, or disease in the heart muscle, which is usually inherited; congenital heart disease, which

can appear “silent;” coronary heart disease; and trauma to the chest (incredibly rare).

Some of these conditions are treatable and curable, while others will require lifelong management. In a very small percentage of children, stopping the sport could save their life.

In many cases, parents and children aren’t aware what their symptoms point to until an EKG unearths a cause.

“It's pretty common for parents to be hearing about things for the first time when the kid comes in the office,” Lau says. “You’d be surprised; a lot of times when we do get the kid in the office, they say, ‘I have been having some symptoms.’”

Potential symptoms can include a racing heart (both at rest or after exercise), chest pain with exertion, and/or fainting with exertion. Often, these symptoms are dismissed as anxiety or stressors related to school or friends. Lau recommends taking a child with these symptoms to their pediatrician, who may send them to a cardiologist. However, if the child is actively showing symptoms, take them to an urgent care or emergency room. If the child is struggling to breathe or talk or is unconscious, call 911.

“The vast majority of EKGs are going to be normal,” Lau reassures parents. “Over 97% should be normal. That’s our expectation.”

With the remaining 3%, doctors will figure out whether it is a true positive by doing a full evaluation.

Lau knows that no parent wants to deal with another form or appointment, but BayCare helps streamline the process. By offering screening events at some primary care offices, including daily EKG-only slots, the healthcare system aims to make the process easy and quick for families.

“It's an extra obligation for parents, an extra thing to worry about before school starts,” Lau says. “But the extra effort would go a long way if something is discovered that could really save your child.”

For more information about new requirements for student athletes as well as a list of locations where screenings are offered, see baycare.org.

Why EKGs Matter: Local teen defies the odds after sudden cardiac arrest

by Meghan Garner

Navigating school hallways, pulling your backpack behind you, and waiting on elevator rides to get to class. That became the new reality for 14-year-old Sara after a hidden heart condition caused Sudden Cardiac Arrest after a routine club swim practice.

Miraculously, Sara survived. (Only 1 in 10 youth survive Sudden Cardiac Arrest.) An implanted device now keeps Sara's heart stable, and while she's no longer swimming competitively, she is happy and healthy. We sat down with her mother, Laura, to learn about their close call and the importance of a new Florida requirement for first-time high school athletes to get a painless, five-minute ECG heart screening. The screening is designed to detect heart problems like the one that lurked, undetected, in her daughter's heart for years.

Q: Tell us about that day.

A: She got out of the pool and talked to her coach, and said, “I don't know what's wrong with me, but I can't catch my breath…” [Later, at home,] I went over to check on her, and… when she sat up, she went into a full convulsive seizure, which was horrific, and her 11-yearold sister was there. And then she was just down. Like she was unresponsive. So, we called 911… I remember when the [paramedics] put the [ECG] on her, they all yelled. They said, “It's her heart.”

Q: Were there any signs beforehand?

A: The answer to that is just no. But, hindsight being 20/20, she had some situations the summer before, where she would just come to me and say, "I'm really anxious. I feel like my heart’s racing.”

Q: Sara had a sports physical. That didn’t pick up any heart issues?

A: She had a sports physical, and nothing was flagged. If she had an electrocardiogram (ECG), they would have absolutely picked up on this.

Q: The Second Chance Act is now Florida Law. It requires all new high school student-athletes to complete an ECG before participating in school-sponsored sports for the first time. How do you feel about the new law?

A: I think it is a really great thing that will save a lot of lives. And I think it should be not just for our kids in athletics. I think it should be for every kid getting their annual checkup.

Q: After Sara came to grips with her diagnosis, how was her life afterwards?

A: It was markedly changed. All her friends were from swimming. So Sara felt like she lost her friends and her identity as a swimmer. It was a lot to take in as a 14-year-old high school freshman.

Q: Was she eventually able to redirect her life?

A: She really redirected herself towards academics. She’s currently a college junior, majoring in biology at Florida State University. She's interning this summer at ZooTampa.

Q: What is your biggest advice to parents who are considering getting their child’s heart screened?

A: I will tell anyone whose kid is doing any kind of sports, even if I just meet them in the grocery store line, to go get them tested! After Sara’s Sudden Cardiac Arrest, only a minority of parents on her club team got their kids screened, because they were terrified to know the results. Parents have to push past that fear for the sake of their children’s safety.

LauraWalters

ROAD TRIP! WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT

We’ve got the world’s best beaches here at home, and right now, the road along I-4, access to the world’s best theme parks! It’s pretty great to live in Tampa Bay, right?

If you’ve got a visit to Walt Disney World on your summer to-do list, you’re in luck because there are so many new things to experience this summer at the Most Magical Place on Earth!

Cool KIDS’ SUMMER returns with special character appearances, dance parties, special events at select Disney resorts and so much more.

Among the many new rides and experiences making debut this summer is Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station in Animal Kingdom, where you can meet Bluey and Bingo and discover the animals that call Australia home. Florida residents can take advantage of a Disney Summer Ticket starting at $65 per day, plus tax, for a 4-Day Ticket. The tickets are good for travel between May 26 and Oct. 3, 2026. Learn more: disneyworld.com/resident

Here are the Florida Resident options:

• 4-Day Ticket: $65 Per Day + Tax

(Total Price: $259 + Tax)

• 3-Day Ticket: $80 Per Day + Tax

(Total Price: $239 + Tax)

• 2-Day Ticket: $110 Per Day + Tax

(Total Price: $219 + Tax)

We’re getting an INSIDE LOOK at all of the fun and sharing it all here with you to help you plan your Disney adventure!

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