Oct-Nov 2014 - ELC of Manatee County

Transcription

October/November 2014
MANATEE’S GOT TALENT!
Syesha & Sam
FELD STUDIOS
Uncovered...
WIN Pizza
for a Year!
HOT TOPIC:
Kids &
Media
INSIDE: CHILD CARE RESOURCE DIRECTORY
www.nextgenmagazine.org
Contents
October/November 2014
PUBLISHER
Early Learning Coalition
of Manatee County
EDITOR
Darrell King
PRODUCTION EDITOR
Kelly Harbour
DESIGN EDITOR
Mara Stork
COVER DESIGN
Saul Fineman
PHOTOGRAPHY
Whitney Patton
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Stephanie Hefner, Bonnie L Quick,
Kara Chalmers, Merab-Michal Favorite,
Carlee Colonneso, Karen Holman,
Pam Parmenter, Ellen McDonald, Chris Kendall,
Susan Miller Kelly, Dr. Sharon Otis
CALENDAR OF FAMILY EVENTS
Anna Maria Carleton
ADVERTISING SALES/MARKETING
Hilarie Jackson
Michael Saunders & Company
Connecting Families and Homes for 40 Years
Home is a place where memories are made and precious moments are shared – and for
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PRODUCTION/DISTRIBUTION
PCI Communications, Inc.
CONTACT NEXTGEN
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Early Learning Coalition
Board of Directors
Gubernatorial Appointees
Howard Veltz (Chairman)
Andrew Minor, Wanda Read-Burke
Private Sector Appointed Members
Robert Bell, Patrick Cassella
Amy Cooley, Linda Guritz
Caroline Halfacre, Dennis Jagdmann
Dianne Kopczynski (Secretary/Treasurer)
Tim Pye, Melanie Shackelford
Len Tabicman, Madison Wells White
Legislatively Required Members
Sandra Edmoundson
County Health Department Designee
Angela Gilmore
Faith-Based Provider Representative
Debbie Kibler
Children With Disabilities
Program Representative
Deborah Ludwig
Private, For-Profit Provider Representative
Dr. Robin Thompson
Manatee County School Board Designee
Jennifer Passmore
Board of County Commissioners' Appointee
Kathy Patreka
Head Start Director
Dr. Kathy Stuckey (Vice-Chairman)
State College of Florida - Designee
Mary Beth Wehnes
Department of Children and Families Designee
Beverly Williams
CareerSource Suncoast
Paul Sharff
Chief Executive Officer
Special Advisors to the Board
Annette Larkin, Jackie West
MANATEE COUNTY
BOARD OF EDUCATION
Julie Aranibar, Karen Carpenter
Dave Miner, Robert Gause
Barbara Harvey
Rick Mills, Superintendent
4 Manatee’s Got Talent
Syesha and Sam on where it all began
14 Ford Drives on School
Healthy Eating Plan
17 Mills Message
So many new positives for the resurgent
Manatee School District
19 Beyond Generous
John Vita is Key to the community
30 Bon Appetit
Another Star is born
36 Stephanie Says
How to handle misbehavior
39 ELC Insider
60 Massage for Kids
Settle your child down for the evening
61 Keep an Eye on
Your Kids
Why exams are so important
62 Plenty of Food
for Thought
Mosaic forum highlights hunger issues
66 Executively Speaking
Behind the scenes with FELD VP!
72 Cover Prize!
Win Pizza for a Year…
73 Ask Dr. Sharon
Reinforce the behavior you want
74 A Day at the Museum
78 Children’s Champions
Foundation for Dreams, Inc
84 Frugal Mom
Monsters and Spiders
There’s no place like home. We would be honored to help you find yours.
86 Kids In the Kitchen
87 On the Bookshelf
90 Calendar of Events
October, November & December
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94 LWR High's Principal
NEXTGEN and the Early Learning Coalition do not endorse or warrant any products or services contained herein, unless otherwise expressly noted. The opinions expressed herein are those of the authors.
Submitted materials will not be returned. Whole or part of this publication may not be used or duplicated
in any way without written permission from the Early Learning Coalition.
96 Kids Staying Safe
Fire Safety Week
3
Take Stock In Children and Manatee School For the
Arts protégé talks exclusively to NextGen about her
journey from Bradenton to Broadway via American Idol
NG: Did growing up in a musical
household (your mother being a former
Motown singer) have an early influence on you? When did you know you
wanted to become a singer?
SM: My mother is definitely my biggest
musical influence. She use to open for
The Staple Singers (a group signed to
Stax Records during the 60’s and 70’s)
with her band called “Varma Creation”.
Growing up in a musical household
played an integral role in my eclecticness. My parents exposed me to all
types of music at an early age. It was
fun having parents who had a strong
appreciation for all genres of music.
My mother would play classical music
for me and sing to me while I was still
in the womb and my dad and I would
dance to Cuban artist Celia Cruz’s
records and jam out in the car to the
oldies radio station. I vividly remember
hearing the Beatles, the Jackson Five
and jamming out to “Ease on Down the
Road” from the Wiz.
I knew I wanted to become a singer the
first time I heard my mother singing in
church. She showed me at an early age
the power that the voice can possess;
the ability it has to heal and move mountains. I wanted to have the same positive effect she had on her audience.
NG: Will you tell us a little about your
parents?
SM: My dad is from Cidra, Puerto Rico
and my mother is Bahamian/American
from Sarasota.
My dad loves collecting bikes, exploring nature and playing the Bongos.
He taught me the basics of salsa as a
child. He is such a loving father.
My mother is an amazing singer and
an ordained minister. She is very
involved in the community. She also
started her theatre career in Sarasota.
Her last show was “Purlie” with West
4
Coast Black Theatre Troupe. I didn’t
get to see the show, but I heard she
was AMAZING!
NG: You were born in Connecticut,
what brought your family to this area?
SM: My parents needed a change. I
was one when we made the move.
NG: You were part of Take Stock in Children, a Manatee County School Board
initiative aimed at helping kids attend
college. Would you say this program
had an impact on your career path?
SM: Absolutely! The mentors the
program provided helped me to stay
focused and knowledgeable about my
career interests. TSIC provided me with
mentors who had experience in the
performing arts, so they were able to
give me advice pertaining to my career
aspirawtions. I will forever be grateful
for TSIC for selecting me as their first
recipient in Manatee County, providing
me with a mentor for every grade level
since third grade, for supporting me
and making it possible for a young girl
living in a low-income neighborhood
to attend college and gain the tools I
needed for success.
NG: What was it like attending Manatee
School of the Arts? Did the schools impact your decision to become a theater
major?
SM: It was so much fun. I had a blast
learning and performing with my
friends. As much as those schools
nurtured and protected me, they also
prepared me for the harshness of
the industry. When I was attending
Daughtrey Elementary I discovered my
passion for the stage in my first show
“One Special Cookie”. After that show I
told my mother I wanted to do theatre,
so she enrolled me into MSA and
later I auditioned for the VPA Theatre
Program. Each school gave me the
opportunity to hone my skills and I
realized at Booker High that I wanted to
study theater in college.
NG: Did you have any teachers or
mentors that really impacted your life
and helped to follow your dreams?
SM: My mentor Barbara Johnson. She
has been such a guiding light and true
friend through the years. She attended
every Green Room I performed in at
The Booker High VPA Theatre, every
touring show I’ve done and she even
came to see me perform on Broadway
in The Book of Mormon. Barbara taught
me the importance of setting goals.
Every week she came with her notebook where she kept track of what we
talked about for the day, my dreams,
my aspirations and most importantly
we wrote down my goals; short term
and long term.
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NG: How did you wind up on American
Idol? What was it like to come in third
place?
SM: Friends and family would always
tell me I should audition for Idol, I felt
like it was a great opportunity, so I did.
My goal was to be second-runner up
and I made it that far, so that was a
rewarding experience having accomplished that goal. The show was like
a boot camp experience. It taught me
perseverance, it taught me how to perform under pressure, and it’s given me
a lot of national visibility. Idol opened
up a lot of doors to perform all over the
world. It’s a huge platform for aspiring musicians and singers and I am
so grateful to have gone through that
whirlwind of an experience.
NG: What was it like being on the cast
of DreamGirls and then Book of Mormon on Broadway?
SM: It was so much fun being in the
cast of DreamGirls. It was my first National Broadway Tour and I had a blast
traveling the world with my friends,
who were like family to me. We opened
up at the Apollo Theatre for their 75th
Anniversary. Just to know that so many
legends graced the same stage I was
walking on was a little surreal. I felt
privileged and honored in knowing I
was given the opportunity to perform
on the same stage Michael Jackson,
Ella Fitzgerald, Sammy Davis Jr., The
Supremes, James Brown, and so many
more iconic figures performed on.
Before each show I would lay down in
the middle of the stage and meditate
to quiet my mind and take in all the
positive energy I could feel from all the
legends that performed there.
The Book of Mormon completed a
dream of mine since I was a little girl; to
perform on Broadway. Now I can say I
did that. It was a great learning experience and so much fun. I had the opportunity to work with an amazing creative
team, a talented cast and two comedic
geniuses, Trey Parker and Matt Stone,
whom I’ve been fans of since my music
teacher, Johnnie Mnich, told me about
their show South Park.
The biggest challenge with doing
Broadway is maintaining a level of
consistency and balance. Without consistency, discipline and balance you
have a harder time performing at your
best. Your eight show a week schedule
Syesha Mercado is a singer, actress, songwriter, philanthropist and Amercian Idol alum. To stay connected follow
Syesha on facebook, on twitter@syesha or visit her website
www.Syesha.Com
depends on it. Everything becomes
kinesthetic memory, but every once in
a while things don’t go as planned and
you have to change your routine. You
have to know your instrument extremely
well and understand what works best
for you; what brings out the best in you
and stick to that.
ful to have parents who have always
been supportive of my career, loving,
and nurturing. Whenever they can they
come see me even if they have to fly to
me. They were at opening night for The
Book of Mormon and they came to see
me while I was on tour with American
Idol’s Live Tour and DreamGirls.
Diet, sleep, water intake, and your circle of friends play a major role in your
success when you have a demanding
schedule like Broadway.
NG: How would you advise a child
wishing to pursue a similar career path
as yourself?
It’s all about perspective. Doing Broadway and off- Broadway work is all what
you make it to be. To me the difference
is the name of the street. If your passion is there you will be just as excited
to open up as a lead doing community
theatre. I feel like when you are grateful
the benefits are much more rewarding.
NG: What does your mother think
about your career? Have she and your
dad attended any of your shows?
SM: My mother thinks highly of my
career and she has been very supportive through the years. She used
to take me to all of my rehearsals and
performances and if she could she
would attend every show. I’m so grate-
SM: First of all I would say to make sure
it’s really what you want to do. Your audience can feel sincerity and authenticity and when your passion isn’t there
it shows. After that, learn all you can;
google, take lessons, be inquisitive,
allow yourself to be creative, and practice. If performing is really what you
want to do tape yourself performing to
see what others see, watch yourself
and make adjustments and be open to
growing and criticism.
I think attending a charter school
or performing arts school is ideal,
because it preps you for college or
you can take private lessons in your
community. The time to get serious is
now. The performing arts industry is
competitive, so the more you know and
the more you can polish your skills the
better chance you have at success.
My theatre teacher Scott Keys once
told me "Success is when preparation
meets opportunity.”
NG: What was it like watching Sam
Woolf go through the same kind of
experiences as you? Do you guys talk?
SM: I was so proud watching Sam
Woolf in his element. He is a natural talent. We have communicated via social
media.
NG: Where will you go from here?
SM: I am elated to say that I am
recording my album. I look forward to
traveling the world soon and to create
in different environments. I am also
producing my second music showcase
for next year. My fans have been reaching out and I'm excited about connecting with my audience again.
On top of that, I recently launched a
non-profit organization, PropheSye, to
help feed and shelter the homeless.
6
7
The Casting Couch
Words: Merab-Michal Favorite
Photos: Whitney Patton
There is no business like show business.
However, in the music world, talent does not necessarily guarantee success.
Gifted individuals hoping for a steep ascension to the top can
often feel like a fish out of water when trying to break into the
industry. The Del Couch Music Education Foundation, a local
non-profit based in Palmetto, has been helping children and
young adults transition into the music industry by providing them
with a plethora of insider information ranging from dealing with
instant success to earning a living through music.
“They don’t teach the business of music in school,” said Del Couch,
65, founder of the foundation. ”They don’t teach production, they
don’t teach performance aspects, they teach band and choir and
unfortunately their creativity is boxed in by state requirements.”
The foundation has launched the music careers of several individuals, most notably Sam Woolf, the 18-year-old Bradenton
singer/songwriter who finished fifth on the Season 15 of American
Idol this year. Woolf, who just recently concluded his national
Idol tour with a “Homecoming” concert at IMG Academy in
Bradenton, said he benefited greatly from working with Couch
and would not have had such a “great start to my career without
his guidance.”
Woolf’s grandfather encouraged him to take voice lessons and
work with the foundation at the age of 15. By then, the Manatee
High School student had already written nearly 30 original songs.
“They were all really good songs,” Couch said. “Any one of them
could have stood up to the stuff they play on the radio today.”
Couch produced Woolf’s first album and helped him fine-tune
his ability. With the help of social media, it wasn’t long before
opportunity came knocking.
“Sam was ready for his Idol audition,” Couch said proudly of
his protégé. “This couldn’t have happened to just anyone, Sam
jumped at the chance.”
Woolf relinquished a full scholarship to Berklee College of Music,
located in Boston Mass., for the opportunity to be on American Idol.
“You have to be ready to drop everything when opportunity
comes knocking,” he said.
With the help of the Del Couch Music Foundation, Woolf is now
encouraging others to follow in his footsteps.
The Sam Woolf Scholarship raises money for kids who want to
pursue a career through the music foundation.
“All the money goes toward kids who want to try and follow the
same path as I did,” Woolf said. “The concert at IMG is a fundraising kick-starter.”
After his worldwide success, Woolf plans to create a new album
and promote his music by touring the country once again. “I want
to do what I did with Idol, but for my album,” he said.
But Woolf isn’t the only success story to come out of Couch’s
studio.
Colton Cason, of Palmetto, is currently performing with the prestigious Carolina Opry in Myrtle Beach, SC., alongside talents
such as third season Idol finalist Latoya London and gospel
powerhouses Rita and Eric Gumm.
Cason started his music career playing the trumpet at Lincoln
Middle School. From there, he expanded to bass, acoustic
guitar and keyboard.
Couch saw something in Cason that reminded him of himself.
(Couch had also started out as a trumpet player.)
“We had spoken a few times while I was in high school (at Palmetto
High), but it wasn’t until I started performing in the State College of
Florida Jazz Band that we really connected,” Cason said. Under
Couch’s guidance, Cason discovered his unbelievable vocal
ability and his talent for song writing. Cason’s original song “Take
me in Your Arms” was featured in the film “The Investigator,” and
released nationally in September 2013.
It was Couch’s coaching that would eventually land Woolf on Idol,
Cason with the Opry, and many others on the path to success.
“You are not going to find a lot of people in the world that will
take you in, let you record for free and expose you to the right
people and places,” said Cason.
8
But Couch said he started helping others because of the coaching he received at an early age. While attending junior high at
Palmetto High School, Couch scored high enough on the music
section of an aptitude test to catch the attention of then band
director Carlton Whitman. Whitman told Couch he could have
his pick of any instrument in the room to play. Couch selected
the trumpet.
However, as one of four children of working class parents Pauline
and Fredrick Couch, both of Palmetto, his family couldn’t afford to
nurture his new musical interest. “Whitman gave me the trumpet
free of charge,” Couch said. “I joined the band in sixth grade with
the intention of becoming the band director one day.”
Couch’s musical ambition was derailed upon graduation, when
he was drafted to serve in the Vietnam War. Instead of going
overseas, Couch auditioned for Air Force Band at MacDill Air
Force Base and earned a place in the ensemble. “Instead of
going to war, I was touring the country and playing for the president,” Couch said.
After the war, Couch’s music career took a 20-year hiatus while
he pursued an interest in the real estate market. He got back
into music at the request of a friend who wanted Couch to play
at his wedding.
After rediscovering his long lost love of music, Couch embarked
9
on a musical pilgrimage, first joining a band, the Shaman, and
touring the country. He enrolled at Berklee at age 53, receiving
a degree in music education and production. Today he serves as
a Berklee ambassador.
Couch hatched the idea for the music foundation from his garage,
a place he used to hold lessons and jam sessions. In addition
to teaching composition basics, he was doling out advice on
performances, production and management. “I really saw a
need to start a non-profit,” Couch said, adding that his friend,
Henry Lawrence of Palmetto, inspired him. (Lawrence is a former
pro-football player turned philanthropist who created the Henry
Lawrence Youth Foundation in 1991.)
After establishing his nonprofit, Couch was ready for his fledgling
company to leave the nest. He looked at several properties around
the area, finally settling in at Manatee School of the Arts, 700
Haben Blvd, Palmetto, where he holds classes in audio production. During class, students fine-tune their music abilities while
learning key aspects of the industry like royalty rates, copyrights
and management, all in exchange for school credit.
“Teachers can’t nurture creativity, their lesson plans don’t allow
for it,” Couch said of the class. “We bring kids in and find their
strength’s and weaknesses.”
Couch also mentors other aspiring musicians, helping them
establish web presence as well as record their first demo CD.
However, students first have to come in and do an audition so
Couch can assess their abilities. “We get them a vocal coach,
instrument lessons, whatever they need to shine,” said Couch.
“The ultimate goal is start them on a career path were they can
use their talent to generate income.”
But there is a catch, according to Cason. “You have to want it,”
he said. “You can’t be complacent, you have to jump on any
opportunity that comes your way without looking back.” “The
thing about chances of a lifetime is they only come once in a
lifetime,” he added.
For more information on the Del Couch Music Education Foundation, visit www.couchmusiceducationfoundation.org.
Cassidy Leitenberger, Delaney Couch and Savannah Waller
10
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to eligible children.
But the new limits under the HHFA have
restricted the use of long-standing menu
items, forcing students to give up some
of their favorite dishes and settle for a
healthier option.
Ford Drives On School
Healthy Eating Plan…
Pictures: Whitney Patton
Trading white flour biscuits in for wholewheat biscuits was just one of the major
transitions the National School Lunch
Program (NSLP) has undergone during
the last four years due to new changes
implemented under the Healthy, Hunger
Free Act (HHFA) of 2010.
“(The right biscuit) was one of the hardest items to find,” Ford says. “But we
included school children in tastes tests
and really tried to find products that
they liked.”
Sandra Ford, Director,
Nutrition Services
Food and
S
andra Ford was on a quest to find
the perfect biscuit.
As the Director of Food and Nutrition
for the Manatee County School District,
Ford went to great lengths to discover a
whole grain biscuit that wasn’t too dry
and tasted almost as good as the ones
her mama used to make.
After sampling dozens of products, she
finally found the perfect consistency.
14
The program kicked-off in 2010, first
requiring a half-cup minimum of nutrient
rich fruits and vegetables, such as kale,
sweet potatoes and acorn squash, on
every lunch tray.
The district had a hard time part providing alternative fruit or veggie portions
for picky eaters who didn’t like whatever
was being served on their tray that day,
according to School District Nutrition
Specialist Skye Grundy.
“If they don’t take the fruit and veggie then they have to pay A La Carte,”
Grundy said. “We don’t want to waste
food so we had to come up with some alternatives the kids would eat, like raisins.”
Other meal enhancements that have
been rolled out over the four-year span
included gradual reductions in the
sodium content and the removal of all
alternative beverages; kids are only allowed milk, water and juice.
The NSLP is a federally assisted meal
program that provides lunches to more
than 31 million children each school day.
School districts and independent schools
that choose to take part in the lunch
program get
cash subsidies for each
meal they
serve.
In return, they
must ser ve
lunches that
meet Federal
requirements
and offer freeor-reducedprice lunches
Over the last few years the media has
criticized HHFA for a variety of issues
that have arisen from the changes, including not providing ample servings to
growing students, especially at a highschool level.
Some districts across the country opted
out of the school lunch program, in
favor of bigger portions and more-liked
menu items.
The initial concern prompted federal lawmakers to relax some of the limitations on
portion control and caloric intake.
“At first, the limits were so strict we
couldn’t even serve cheeseburgers,”
Grundy said. “But any program of this
size will have hiccups. We are just glad
the lawmakers listened to us and omitted
some restrictions.”
Some school districts saw a dip in NSLP
participation. However, Ford says involvement in Manatee County is stronger
than ever. She credits the steadfastness
to her staff’s efforts when “making a better version” of the most liked menu items
at the school.
While school lunches must meet Federal
meal requirements, local school food
authorities make decisions about what
specific foods to serve and how they
are prepared.
Grundy said she and staff members
made subtle changes, like swapping
regular cheese for reduced fat, trading
traditional sausage for turkey sausage
and serving fries baked in the oven instead of those submerged in hot grease.
“I’m not going to say that the kids didn’t
notice something was different,” Grundy
smiled. “But I’m happy to say they got
used to it rather quickly.”
Skye Grundy
School District
Nutrition Specialist
One reaction Grundy and Ford were
dreading was the introduction of wholewheat pizza. They were more than
surprised when they did not receive a
single complaint.
Another difficult transition was the removal of deep-fried French fries. Grundy
said the kid favorite has been replaced
by several alternatives, like baked sweet
potato fries, baked curly fries and baked
potato wedges.
Ford said getting lunch staff used to the
idea of baking the starches required
some convincing.
“I finally just stopped replacing the deep
fryers in the kitchens,” Ford said. “So
basically when the fryer went kaput, there
was no other option.”
The new national standards aren’t limited
to the lunchroom.
The HHFA also strengthened school
wellness policies, or those nutritional
classes provided to students to promote
a healthy lifestyle and address the growing problem of childhood obesity.
“It’s hard to sell a child on healthy eating in
the classroom, when you turn around and
serve them something unhealthy during
their lunch period.” Grundy said. “I think
we are trying to sell a healthy alternative to
the comfort foods we are used to.”
Grundy said that parents are even getting onboard the healthy train, asking
questions about how to prepare healthier
meals at home.
The HHFA also put an end to the somewhat common act of giving children
candy or treats as a reward during class
and allowing kids to fundraise for their
school by selling unhealthy indulgences.
“It’s hard to justify giving candy to a kid for
answering a question
right,” said Grundy.
“Sweets as a positive
affirmation can follow
you all the way into
adulthood.”
The district is helping
teachers cope with
the new requirements
by suggesting alternatives.
15
“This year we are really focusing on the teachers and giving them
suggestions to change their habits,” Grundy explained. “So we
encourage alternatives like giving students an iTunes gift card
rather than candy as a reward for doing something right.”
Ford feared children might have to give up their classroom pizza
parties, which are often provided by the school for outstanding success. However, the district’s main pizza conglomerate,
Dominos Pizza, was able to produce a “smart slice” pizza that
met the nutritional requirements.
The HHFA restrictions have also had an effect on the economy.
With 31 million mouths suddenly switching to whole grains,
food distribution companies have reassessed their supply and
demand strategies.
“We currently aren’t serving any rice dishes,” Ford said. “That’s
because we can’t get brown rice and we aren’t allowed to serve
white. We are waiting for more supply on a national level.”
Ford says implementing the HHFA standards and keeping
healthy meals tasty for students has been one of the greatest
challenges, but also the most fulfilling accomplishments in her
15-year career.
“It’s not punitive. It’s not negative. It’s really about what is best
for the students,” Ford explained.
So what’s Ford’s next big undertaking?
“We are still trying to find a whole-grain hard taco shell,” she
said. “When I find that, my quest will be complete…for the
time being.”
M il l s M e ss age
OUR PRIDE IN PARENTS FAITH…
Superintendent Rick Mills reports on so many new
positives for the resurgent Manatee School District
T
he 2014-2015 school year is well underway and we have exciting news to share and to be thankful for as a school district
and community.
We are pleased to report that the School District of Manatee County closed out the 2013-2014 school year with a budget
surplus of $14.4 million. The achievement of that surplus represents a remarkable accomplishment for the district, because the
previous school year was closed out with a negative fund balance of $8.9 million.
When you consider the fact that the district had to pay $5.9 million in restoration costs to the state for past financial failures under
previous administrations, the $14.4 million surplus represents an astonishing $29.2 million fiscal turnaround in the span of one year.
Most importantly, the $14.4 million surplus means our school district met its state-required fund-balance for the first time since 2009.
To add to the good news on the fiscal front, the School Board of Manatee County approved a $627 million budget for the
current school year (2014-2015) in September that projects an ending fund balance for this school year of $16.5 million.
The achievement of fiscal stability for this district was a top priority established by the School Board when they brought in a
new leadership team beginning in March 2013. The fact that so much has been accomplished so quickly is a testament to our
School Board, our entire school district team of schools and employees and our community.
The beginning of this school year also brought news that our school district is experiencing an abundance of growth. According to a state-mandated count taken on the 10th day of school, our student population rose by approximately 1,200 students in
2014 as compared to the same time in 2013.
The fact new families and students are flocking to Manatee District schools is a positive sign for our district and community
because it provides proof that Manatee County is a very desirable location to live and to raise a family. That so many parents are
selecting Manatee District schools for their children shows the faith they place in public education and in the quality of our schools.
As always, the most important results are those taking place in our classrooms each day. As this school year progresses,
we look forward to working with your children to build upon the academic success that saw 24 of our schools improve their letter
grade from the state; including seven of our schools which improved by at least two letter grades. Our students surpassed the
state average in a variety of accountability exams and raised our district’s
standing by 22 points – putting us just
10 points shy of becoming a B district.
For more information about our schools
and district, please visit www.manateeschools.net
Thank you for your continued support of our children, our teachers and
our schools.
Together We Can,
Rick W. Mills
Superintendent
October 2014.
Nolan Middle School: Laurie Anderson, Pia Rudd, Mary Jane Caradelle-Hermans (manager)
16
17
I
t’s not enough for some kids to attend class, complete their assignments and study hard in order to
make good grades. Some students
want to give back to their community with
service work.
A Key To
OUR COMMUNITY
“We get two different types of children
who join Key Club,” said John Vita, Key
Club advisor for Manatee High School.
“Those natural go-getters who love to get
out and do different things, and those
shy introverted kids who are looking for
more from their high-school experience.”
While there are a plethora of organizations specializing in community service
that offer student membership, Key Club
has been present in the school system
for decades. The organization has stayed
strong while other groups have experienced ups and downs in participation.
Vita, 49, has been involved with Key Club
his whole life. A Bradenton native, Vita
was a member of Key Club as a Manatee
High School student.
Upon graduation, Vita studied finance
at Saint Leo University. From there he
traveled to the Big Apple, landing a job
18
at the prestigious Merrill Lynch financial
management and advisory group.
However, in 1994, Vita came back home
to Bradenton and became a Key Club
advisor for his former school while working full time at Morgan Stanley wealth
manwagement.
Vita attributes his charitable acts to good
parenting. His mother, Marge Vita, and
father Bob Vita, were very active in volunteering with local organizations like
the Bradenton Kiwanis, Southeastern
Guide Dogs and Blake Medical Center,
according to Vita.
“It’s always been something prevalent
in our family that people work with the
community,” Vita explained. “I guess
that’s where I get it.”
As an advisor, Vita helps high school
student members of Key Club perform
acts of service in their communities,
such as cleaning up parks, collecting
clothing and organizing food drives. They
also learn leadership skills by running
meetings, planning projects and holding
elected leadership positions at the club,
district and international levels.
Each high school with its own Key Club
is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club within
the same region. Key Club principals are
adopted from an International model that
was established as early as the 1920’s.
The first Key Club was formed by a group
of boys in Sacramento, Cal. circa 1925.
Those students took an oath to “serve
their school in any way possible and
create better school spirit,” according to
www.keyclub.org.
What started out as a vocational guidance program, expanded to become
a complete service organization for the
whole school. By 1939, the service boy
phenomenon had reached all the way to
Florida, which is credited with establishing the first Key Club district.
Today, Key Club is the oldest and largest
service program for high school students
in the world, existing in 30 different
countries and boasting over 250,000
members.
Key Club members have such a wide
array of responsibilities, it’s not uncommon to find them reading to youngsters
as part of the Reading Buddies program
19
known as a hands on organization people call on
in their time of need.”
Over the years the Key Club
at MHS has grown from
about 85 members to 150.
The club has a service hour
requirement for acceptance which helps students
determine if Key Club is
right for them, and if they
are right for Key Club. “We
require all members get 20
hours during that first quarter,” Vita says. “We look at
the students and then assess them on their accomplishments. Some students
that are really into it end up
with 300 service hours at
the end of the year.”
Vita hopes the organization will continue
to grow, despite the trend of a participation decline in similar organizations over
the past few years. “There was a huge
movement after WWII for people to really get involved,” Vita said. “Now all
those people have died off and others
don’t understand how important these
organizations really are to the success
of the community.”
It is mentor’s like Vita who are responsible
for keeping those organizations alive.
He said in recent years, the Key Club
has expanded to include a version of
the organization in middle schools called
Builders Club, and even elementary
schools known as K-kids. Through the
various organizations, the children are
generally better prepared for their careers and eventually become pillars of
the community.
one day, and testing their waste management skills as members of the Green
Team, a recycling program at the MHS,
another day.
They also do things like building houses.
“We sponsored the first Habitat for Humanity house in Manatee County in the
late 1990s,” said Vita. “It was an amazing
experience then and still is now.”
20
The Good Samaritan efforts are not limited to Manatee County. Vita said he’s
even taken members of the Key Club to
Louisiana to participate in cleanup efforts
after Hurricane Katrina and chaperoned
a trip to Belize in order to build a school.
“We want kids to understand this is an
active service club, not just a resume
builder,” Vita said. “We have become
“The most rewarding part comes years
later when the children I’ve advised see
me somewhere and tell me their success stories,” Vita said. “When they tell
me they are volunteering somewhere I
know that my efforts made a difference
and that theirs will too. It’s a really good
cycle.”
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Investing in our youth
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Back to School
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At M
We
deliver
2 out of 3
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Manatee
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Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Splash into Pre-K/Un salto a Pre-K is a nationally modified version of Frog Street Pre-K. Riverside Early Assessments of Learning™ (REAL®) and design, Riverside®, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt™and HMH®
are trademarks or registered trademarks of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. © Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved. 08/14 MS115653
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Let’s Go Canoeing or Kayaking!
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29
A NEW
Star Is Born
Words: Kara Chalmers
W
hen you’re a working parent,
you generally have two jobs
– one that you leave for in the
mornings, and one that you do the rest
of the time (including through the night).
For a parent who owns a restaurant,
it gets taken up a notch. She has to find
people to help care for her kids, often
during odd hours. She doesn’t necessarily get holidays off and, sometimes,
she doesn’t get any days off. She might
miss out on some things, like tucking her
kids into bed. She has to deal with rude
customers and flaky employees.
So then what about a parent who
owns THREE restaurants, the third being new and requiring even more late
nights than usual? Chi Lu, who operates
the Bradenton-based chain Ocean Star,
knows all about it. The challenges, as
well as the joys.
Lu, 44, has been a restaurant owner
for about 12 years. She and her husband
Wen own Lily Ocean Star (named after
their daughter) on Holmes Beach, as
well as Shaiming Ocean Star (named
after their son) on Cortez Road West in
Bradenton. Both places offer sushi and
traditional Japanese fare.
The Lus’ just opened a third location,
named Island Star, at 902 South Bay
Boulevard in Anna Maria. Located where
the restaurant Rotten Ralph’s used to
stand, this new venue shares a brand
new space with Galati Yacht Sales. It’s
a lovely restaurant in a striking location
overlooking Bimini Bay. It’s only been
open since Aug 1st, but business is
already brisk. In fact, Lu had planned
a “soft” opening specifically so that her
30
staff could have more time to train in
the art of Japanese cuisine, since most
servers hadn’t worked in a Japanese restaurant before (Island Star is currently the
only Japanese restaurant in Anna Maria).
But word spread quickly and customers,
including those who’ve patronized Lu’s
two other restaurants for years, began
flocking to the new place.
Island Star is different from the two
other restaurants in that it offers a more
contemporary twist on traditional sushi
offerings and Japanese dishes. Menu
items are delivered as beautiful, colorful
works of art, displayed on modern white
plates that don’t distract from the food.
Highlights include the tempura and curry
dishes, as well as the garlic and soy steak.
The restaurant’s atmosphere manages to
be both sophisticated and beach-casual.
The shaded outdoor patio is literally on top
of the water (you can see it between the
floor planks) and offers bay breezes and
views of the gigantic yachts moored in
the Galati marina. Inside, there’s a hibachi
table that seats 18, a full bar and a sushi
bar. With so much to see from your seats,
and a kids’ menu that’s unique in that it
offers truly healthy and varied options (see
sidebar), the restaurant is a great choice
for a family night out.
The history behind Ocean Star is also
unique. Originally from Vietnam, Lu arrived in Bradenton in 1986, when she
was 16. Her family – Lu, her parents and
three siblings – were sponsored by and
lived at first with her aunt.
“My dad got his drivers’ license the first
day, a job the second day, and a week or
two later we moved into our own place,”
Lu said. Her father was a mechanic, but
didn’t speak English and thus wasn’t paid
as well as his American counterparts. So
Lu’s sister, Fumi Horaguchi, eight or nine
years older than Lu (Lu isn’t sure exactly
how many), went to work in restaurants
to help pay the bills.
“As the oldest daughter, she had to
find a job, to work, to help take care of
the family,” Lu said. And with that one
decision, the course of Lu’s life was set
in motion.
After two years spent studying Japanese cooking in Japan, Lu’s older sister
in 1994 opened her own restaurant, which
is today the Ocean Star located on Cortez
Road. For nearly a decade, Lu worked for
her sister there, doing everything including dishwashing, bussing, serving, hosting and finally, cooking and managing.
Lu learned to love Japanese food, and
cooking Japanese food, and eventually, she struck out on her own some 12
years ago and opened the Ocean Star
located in Holmes. Since then, she and
her husband have taken over ownership
of the Ocean Star on Cortez Road, and
they have opened the third, new location
in Anna Maria. However, Lu’s sister is still
involved in the restaurants’ operations.
“She’s my teacher,” Lu said. “She
taught me everything.”
As mentioned earlier, the life of a working parent is challenging. But the Lus’
case might be exceptional. Lu and her
husband work both of their “jobs” every
day: taking care of their children, Lily,
16, and Shaiming, 10, in the mornings
at their house in northwest Bradenton,
and starting their restaurant work around
10 a.m., finishing close to midnight, with
periods throughout the day spent helping
with homework, shuttling kids to and from
school at St. Stephens and to and from
after-school volleyball, piano lessons
and baseball. Lu somehow manages to
cook all three meals for her family most
of the time (her daughter helps out with
this, too). There is McDonalds or pizza
delivery allowed in the Lu house.
Since Aug. 1, getting the new restaurant up and running has called for
nights ending as late as 5 a.m., but Lu
hopes that will calm down soon. She also
hopes to one day sell both other Ocean
Star locations, so she can focus just on
the Anna Maria one. Despite the challenges, Lu gets deep satisfaction from
her career. It’s a joy that her work now
takes place in Anna Maria, a quaint town
she has come to love. It’s a joy to serve
cuisine she truly loves, and loves to cook
(she still cooks in the restaurant… and
cleans and washes dishes, and does
anything else that needs to be done).
“I love seeing people returning,” she
said. “I love feeding customers healthy
food.”
Finally, it’s a joy to be a successful
business owner, who has worked hard
and been rewarded with three thriving
restaurants. Because of this, Lu has been
able to help support not just her own
immediate family, but also her nieces,
nephew, parents and in-laws.
“I love to see what I have accomplished.”
31
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35
Stephanie Says
How to Handle Misbehavior
Words: Stephanie Hefner
H
ow do you respond in the midst of your child’s temper
tantrum, withdrawal or rebellion? Commonly parents
will say they react with feeling annoyed, angry or hurt.
These responses are generally based on the way we saw our
own parents discipline, in addition to our lack of awareness about
alternative ways to handle misbehavior.
The first step in handling misbehavior is to understand that all
misbehavior is your child’s way of telling you they have a need.
Based on the theory of William Glasser, children’s needs fall
under these categories: Survival- the need to feel safe, free from
violence, and to know food, clothing and shelter will be provided;
Belonging-to feel loved unconditionally and have a bond with
others; Power- to feel self-worth, value and competency through
mastery of skills and accomplishments; Freedom- to feel independence and the ability to share thoughts without judgment or
criticism; and Fun- to experience joy and laughter through play.
If one of these needs is not being met, we are likely to see inappropriate or irresponsible behavior. You can change the way you
respond to misbehavior by looking for understanding and asking
yourself, “What is my child trying to tell me he or she needs?”
The next step is to view discipline as an opportunity to teach,
rather than punish. Some tips below come from Kathryn Kvols,
creator of Redirecting Children’s Behavior. These important
points can help you reduce the occurrence of misbehavior by
teaching your child healthy ways to express his or her needs.
Time and Attention. Create time to give your children your
undivided attention. As parents we stay busy, so this may sound
like a challenge with your hectic schedules. If you find this to be
true, plan for 5-10 minutes of talk time before bed. This creates
a predictable time that your child knows he or she will have with
you to talk about the day or just relax quietly together. Attention
can also be given in the way you answer your child’s question
or acknowledge what they have to say to you. Your child will
feel heard, satisfied, and more understood if you can take a few
seconds to stop what you’re doing, get on their level, look them
in the eyes while touching them softly, and calmly respond to
their question or statement.
Choices. To avoid power struggles, give your child options
around their responsibilities. For
example, “Do you want to do your homework before or after
your shower?” This is giving your child appropriate use of power. A
child that feels they are always being told what to do and how to do
it will lead them to feeling powerless. Powerlessness is the pathway
to behavior such as rebellion and bullying because defying rules
and teasing others gives them a false sense of being powerful.
Play. When more time is available, make it a point to play.
Whether it’s two rounds of Uno, twenty minutes of playing catch
outside, or a never-ending game of monopoly, playing together
is important. In addition to the cognitive, social and physical
benefits, it gives you and your child time to be fully engaged
with each other. Use this precious time to have fun, laugh and
make memories together.
Establishing Rules and Consequences. Establish rules, and
then involve your children in the decision-making process about
what the consequences will be if the rules are broken. Once an
agreement is made, be consistent and follow through with the
predetermined consequences. Children are more likely to comply
when they helped establish the agreement.
Disengage. Remove yourself from the conflict. If your child is
angry or being disrespectful, speak calmly and let them know
you will be in the other room if they decide to “try again.”
Acknowledge. Look for opportunities to praise and acknowledge your child for making good choices. Recognition motivates
children to repeat their good behavior. Praise reminds children
that they can get attention for doing well, therefore reducing the
need to misbehave to get your attention. Let your child know
that you believe in them…this is the first step in them believing
in themselves.
Explore. Misbehavior can be related to an underlying learning,
language processing or sensory integration issue. If your child
continues to misbehave despite your best efforts, seek advice
from a psychologist, pediatrician or mental health professional
for further evaluation. An underlying biological issue will need
some treatment interventions in addition to your behavioral
management techniques.
Stephanie Hefner, MA runs the Center for Counseling and Mediation Services. Contact: Stephanie@CenterForCMS.com or 941-957-8266, www.CenterForCMS.com
36
37
ELC INSIDER
Why Quality Counts! 40
Provider Directory 42
Fall Facebook 46
Calendar 52
Hot Topic 56
“
Going tobacco free at
the fire department was a
big morale boost for our team. Staff
felt supported in making a healthy
choice, and Tobacco Free Manatee
made it easy with free guidance and
resources.”
- Asst Chief David Ezell
Going tobacco free at work
is a win-win for business and morale.
Contact us to get started!
tobacco free manatee .com
(941) 748-0747 x1211
Childcare Resource & Referral
(941) 757-2910
QUALI T Y Counts
WORDS: Chris Kendall
Q
uality Counts for Children is
The Early Learning Coalition
of Manatee County’s continuous quality improvement
program for legally operating centers,
family child care homes, and out of
school time programs that currently have
a School Readiness Contract.
Evidence shows that quality early education is a key factor in a child’s brain
development. With the majority of that
development during the first five years of
life, the quality of care a child receives
during this time is critical. Children with
access to high quality early learning
experiences are more likely to acquire
the skills they need to enter kindergarten ready to succeed and adapt to new
learning and social environments.
The Early Learning Coalition of Manatee
County subscribes to the understanding that high quality care means that
children engage in meaningful learning
and play, guided by qualified early childhood professionals in enriched learning
environments.
Quality Rating Improvement Systems
(QRIS) exist nationwide. The Manatee
County QRIS program was created to
provide a way to distinguish the levels of
increasing quality. Rated providers are
demonstrating their commitment to quality far beyond expectation or licensing
requirements. Participation is voluntary
and the award of a one-star or higher
rating reflects a program’s choice to raise
the bar in quality.
A program with a star rating:
• Is on a continuous quality
improvement path.
• Distinguishes itself for exceeding standards required of it.
40
• Assures parents of its
focus on producing a
high quality experience
for children.
• Reflects a culture of commitment to excellence
among staff.
Programs are awarded points
in seven key quality areas. The
points are summed, and an
overall star rating is awarded
for the program based on
the number of points the
program received of 60 points.
The learning environment
s t a n d a rd i s w o r t h m o re
points than the other areas,
because research shows that
high quality teacher-child
interactions and their overall environment
has the greatest impact on positive child
development.
The seven quality areas:
• Curriculum.
• Family Engagement.
• Learning Environment.
• Program Administration.
• Ratios-Group Size.
• Screening and Identification of
Special Needs
• Staff Qualifications
Point range per star level:
7 – 18 points.................1 Star
19 – 28 points . ..........2 Stars
29 – 38 Points.............3 Stars
39 – 48 Points.............4 Stars
49 – 60 Points.............5 Stars
Family Child Care Homes are awarded
“star level” designations based on the
number of points a family child care
home receives for meeting quality specific standards.
tation successes over the past ten years.
“A few years ago, our Academies excitedly volunteered for the Quality Counts
for Children’s’ program by the Early
Learning Coalition of Manatee County.
“The Quality Counts for Children’s program significantly aligned with our high
quality standards and objectives. The
program also provided a system of measuring our continuous efforts.
“It is our belief, any center participating
with the Quality Counts for Children’s’
process will undoubtedly improve the
quality of care to the children they serve.
“The high level standards encompasses
all aspects of the child care operation.
The arduous training expectations is
just one facet of the superior standards.
“A Readiness Learning Academy is
proud to say we participated with this
effective program and on behalf of the
children we serve, we look forward to
maintaining our five-star status our staff
worked so diligently to attain.
“Thank you to the staff of the Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County for the
opportunity to participate in this program.”
Lori Page, XXXXX at Hope Lutheran,
added, “For someone who has gone
through three accreditations this was
very straightforward.
“The ERS (?????) ratings help in knowing
the areas where the QRIS money would
be best used
“Also, discounted and free training make
it easier for my staff to attend.”
These standards address:
• Business Administration
• Curriculum and Instructional
Assessment
• Family Engagement
• Learning Environment
• Provider Qualifications
• Screening and Identification
of Special Needs
• Provider as Employer
(may not be applicable)
QRIS is a systemic approach to assess,
improve, and communicate the level of
quality in early education programs.
Even providers that have met the standards of the lowest QRIS levels have
achieved a level of quality that is beyond
the minimum requirements to operate.
All QRIS contain two or more levels of
standards beyond licensing, with incremental progressions to the highest level
of quality.
Deborah Ludwig, Owner of A Readiness
Learning Academy in Bradenton, said, “A
Readiness Learning Academy’s commitment to high quality programs for young
children has been demonstrated by our
Academies accreditation and reaccredi41
CHILDCARE
PROVIDER DIRECTORY
A
A Child's Galaxy Preschool
Bradenton, FL 34207
941-755-6302
A Growing Start Childcare Center, LLC
525 3rd Street East
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-896-9750
A Learning Ladder Academy & Kids Club
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-792-7517
A Little Schoolhouse Christian Academy
11750 US Highway 301 North
Parrish, FL 34219
941-776-1973
A Plus Growing Academy
800 10th Avenue West
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-722-0797
A Readiness Learning Academy
9045 59th Avenue Circle East
Bradenton, FL 34202
941-727-9354
A Readiness Learning Academy 2
6130 SR 70 East
Bradenton, FL 34203
941-752-4927
All God's Children
11107 Palmbrush Trail
Bradenton, FL 34202
941-739-2776
42
Anna Maria Island Community
Center, Inc. -TLC Program
407 Magnolia Avenue
Anna Maria, FL 34216
941-778-1908
Art Center Manatee
209 9th Street West
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-746-2862
B
Bright Beginnings Academy
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-479-7910
Brown, Jonette
309 43rd Street West
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-704-4680
Beck, Margaret
Parrish, FL 34219
941-776-1027
Bernier, Mary
4004 78th Place East
Sarasota, FL 34243
941-351-2177
Bible Baptist Church Academy
Suite 101
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-479-4958
Blanton, Suzette
216 60th Street Northwest
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-792-8563
Boys And Girls Club
6220 Manatee Avenue West, Suite 201
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-761-2582
Bradenton Charter School
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-739-6100
Bradenton Christian School
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-792-5454
C
Capokids Martial Arts Preschool
Bradenton, FL 34202
941-922-4520
Carls, Heather
Parrish, FL 34219
941-776-3955
Center For Early Childhood
Bradenton, FL 34207
941-753-4987
Children's Academy of SW FL
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-747-8726
Children's Academy of SW FL East
2601 7th Avenue East
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-746-3503
Children's Academy of SW FL Manasota
1621 66th Avenue Terrace East
Sarasota, FL 34243
941-752-4574
Children's Academy of SW FL Rubonia
712 Palm View Road
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-722-1816
43
Children's Nest of Manatee, Inc.
Bradenton, FL 34207
941-753-9024
Davis, Olympia
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-746-5403
Collins, Jacquline
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-448-1095
Discover Our World
Bradenton, FL 34209
Community Christian School
5500 18th Street East
Bradenton, FL 34203
941-755-4968
DC's Child Care Center 2
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-746-6090
Community Outreach Child Care
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-750-0513
Dougherty, Nancy
Bradenton, FL 34207
941-752-9226
Coney, Denise
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-782-8930
Copeman, Sarah
Bradenton, FL 34207
941-538-4716
Core Early Education And Learning
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-729-9069
Countryside Academy For Children
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-747-3044
Creative Kids 75th
408 75th Street North West
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-794-8687
D
Davis Stable Horse Camp
Palmetto, FL 34221
727-421-2387
Davis, Katherine
Bradenton, FL 34212
941-747-9052
44
Drama Kids International
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-922-8121
Dupre, Donna
5110 36th Avenue Drive West
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-792-4837
E
East Coast Migrant Head Start Project
34560 SR 64 East
Myakka City, FL 34251
941-322-6064
Easter Seals of Southwest Florida
350 Braden Avenue
Sarasota, FL 34243
941-355-7637
Edison Academic Center
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-792-7500
Education Time
5165 33rd Street East
Bradenton, FL 34203
941-753-7332
Ellen Meade School of Creative Learning
1323 63rd Avenue East
Bradenton, FL 34203
941-755-1757
Ellenton United Methodist Preschool
3607 US Highway 301 North
Ellenton, FL 34222
941-722-2318
F
Faith Preschool of Faith UCC
4850 SR 64 East
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-746-7895
Family Life Community School, Inc.
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-792-7911
First For Kids Children's Christian Center
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-748-0824
Foundation For Dreams
16110 Dream Oaks Place
Bradenton, FL 34212
941-746-5659
H
Haga, Jennifer
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-729-9435
Hancock, Teri
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-747-2187
Happy Cubs
6207 21st Avenue West
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-798-6173
Happy Go Lucky
Bradenton, FL 34207
941-752-4608
Hope Lutheran Preschool
Bradenton, FL 34207
941-753-1128
G
I
Goddard School
14534 Arbor Green Trail
941-752-6600
Imagine Charter School North Manatee
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-750-0900
GT Bray Manatee County Parks
And Recreation
5502 33rd Avenue Drive West
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-742-5923
In The Beginning Learning Center
708 32nd Avenue East
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-708-3223
Gayetsky, Nicole
15438 29th Lane East
Parrish, FL 34219
941-773-6297
Gulfcoast Christian Academy
1700 51st Avenue East
Bradenton, FL 34203
941-755-0332
Imagine Charter School Lakewood Ranch
10535 Portal Crossing
Bradenton, FL 34221
941-750-0900
Its A Small World, Inc. Daycare And Preschool
900 3rd Street East
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-405-4532
45
.
..
l
l
a
F
y
p
p
Ha
Anayeli, 10
Bella, 3
Sophia, 5 Months
Raylen, 2
46
Landen at age 4, & Zane at age 6
47
J
Jackson, Tia
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-794-5097
Jennifer Jones Family Day Care Home
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-345-4128
Johnson, Lori
Bradenton, FL 34207
941-755-2098
Joy Learning & Development Academy
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-721-0684
Jump Start Preschool of the Arts
11005 Passage Drive
Bradenton, FL 34211
941-747-8900
Just For Girls East Bradenton
1011 21st Street East
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-747-3337
Just For Girls Palmetto
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-722-8988
Just For Girls West Bradenton
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-792-2137
K
Kiddie Academy of Bradenton
4225 Concept Court
Bradenton, FL 34211
941-727-9072
48
Kids Academy Plus
Bradenton, FL 34207
941-727-1841
L
Kids Academy Plus 38th
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-792-3678
La Petite Academy 37th
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-756-5227
Kids Club
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-751-4182
La Petite Academy SR 70
6919 53rd Avenue East
Bradenton, FL 34203
941-753-2336
Kids On The Rock
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-729-4567
La Petite Academy Vintage Road
4507 Vintage Drive
Sarasota, FL 34243
941-355-7677
Kids R Kids
941-727-9990
Lane, Barbara
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-746-1774
Kidzone Preschool
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-746-2727
Learning Is Fun Child Care
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-729-8347
Kimberli Cotton Early Education Center
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-254-7973
Learning Tree Early Learning Center
707 3rd Avenue West
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-721-7500
Kimberli Cotton Learning Academy
608 6th Street West
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-722-4349
Learning Unlimited
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-794-5838
Kingdom Kidz Learning Center
Bradenton, FL 34207
941-739-5439
Learning With Love
Bradenton, FL 34207
941-751-4989
Kings Kids First Baptist Church Palmetto
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-722-0840
Little People's Place
374 Scott Avenue
Sarasota, FL 34243
941-355-8741
Little Seahorse Academy
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-748-3901
Love Comes First Preschool
8630 East SR 70
Bradenton, FL 34202
941-755-7800
M
Macy, Taniel
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-201-5752
Manatee Charter School
Bradenton, FL 34203
941-465-4296
Manatee County Parks & Recreation
5504 33rd Avenue Drive West
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-742-5974
Manatee Learning Academy
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-794-0088
Manatee Players
102 Old Main Street
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-748-0111
Manatee United Methodist Preschool
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-750-6739
Matthews, Valorie
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-896-4391
MCAA Head Start
302 Manatee Avenue East
Suite 200
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-750-666
Mini Me Kids Learning Center, LLC
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-254-4940
49
Minnie Miracles Preschool
600 7th Avenue West
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-479-4488
Palmetto Youth Center
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-722-0783
Morgan, Victoria
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-745-2401
Parrish Baptist Learning Center
Parrish, FL 34219
941-776-1333
My First Steps of Bradenton, Inc.
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-727-5511
Primary Prepatory of Bradenton
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-746-4816
Primrose School
At Lakewood Ranch Towncenter
9127 Town Center Parkway
Bradenton, FL 34202
941-373-6363
Myakka City Community Center
10070 Wauchula Road
941-322-8114
Pate, Laquanda
105 12th Street Court West
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-448-7206
Myakka Early Learning Center, Inc.
37190 Singletary Road
941-322-2605
Pathways To Learning
1300 Manatee Avenue East
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-896-8802
N
Pathways To Learning 15th
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-896-8804
Nannies Who Care, Inc.
2515 Mulberry Drive
Palm Harbor, FL 34684
727-784-8868
Pendleton School
Bradenton, FL 34210
941-739-3964
Neumann, Mary
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-746-6477
Perez, Kelley
Parrish, FL 34219
941-776-8057
Rancho De Charlotte
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-448-0359
Norris, Lisa
6617 Alpine Lane
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-746-1172
Pinnacle Academy
6215 Lorraine Road
Bradenton, FL 34202
941-755-1400
RCMA Palmetto Migrant Headstart
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-723-4563
P
Plasencia, Teresa
1019 61st Avenue Drive East
Bradenton, FL 34203
941-580-4347
Rowlett Academy for Arts & Communications
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-708
Poole, Mary Smalls
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-538-0231
S
Palma Sola Early Learning Academy
7315 1st Avenue West
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-795-0788
Palma Sola Presby Preschool
6510 3rd Avenue West
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-794-0818
50
Pate Thomas, Vanzetta
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-746-6305
Powers, Patricia
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-773-5253
Porpora, Eleanor Suzie
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-721-9710
Providence Community School
Bradenton, FL 34207
941-727-6860
Puppy Patch Preschool
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-748-6648
R
Rainey, Sheila
Parrish, FL 34219
941-776-9600
Sammys Small World
3631 Tallevast Road
Sarasota, FL 34243
941-355-6857
Sandman Preschool & Academy
924 Wilmerling Avenue
Sarasota, FL 34243
941-755-2591
SCF Kid's Summer Spectrum
State College of Florida
Bradenton, FL 34207
941-752-5290
School District Of Manatee County
Parent Information Center
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-708-4971
School For Constructive Play, Inc.
302 Pine Avenue
Anna Maria, FL 34216
941-778-2210
Scott, Twyla
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-729-0442
Skriloff, Jennifer
Parrish, FL 34219
941-735-8449
Smarty Pants Preschool
832 62nd Street Circle East
Suite 101
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-747-7710
Smarty Pants Preschool 2
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-896-4796
Smiling Faces Academy, Inc.
Bradenton, FL 34203
941-756-1234
Smiling Faces Center For Children
202 3rd Avenue East
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-746-5999
South Florida Museum Science Explorers
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-746-4131
51
Fall Training Calendar October-December 2014
All trainings are held at the ELC Manatee Training Room located at
600 8th Avenue west in Palmetto. To view the full training calendar
visit us at www.elc-manatee.org.
VPK Assessment Instructional Implications
Tuesday 10/7/2014 Course #5413
Wednesday 12/10/2014 Course #5418
4:00pm-6:00pm
Facilitator: ELC Staff
This professional development is appropriate for VPK directors,
administrators, and teachers who have administered the VPK
Assessment. Participants will review the VPK Assessment Online
Reporting System score types, reports, and instructional resources
for planning instruction based on VPK Assessment data. Cost is
FREE. Participants must register online through the Department
of Children & Families website. (2 hours and 0.20 CEU)
School Readiness/Babysitter's Training
Pediatric First Aid & CPR
Part I: Friday 10/10/2014
Part II: Monday 10/22/2014
9:00am-4:00pm with 1/2 hour lunch
Facilitators: AnnaMaria Carleton & Pam Parmenter
The purpose of the American Red Cross Babysitter’s Training
course is to provide youth, ages 11-15, who are planning to
babysit with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and
responsibly give care for children and infants. This training will
help participants develop leadership skills, learn how to develop
a babysitting business, keep themselves and others safe, help
children behave, and learn about basic child care and basic first
aid. Optional lessons 7 and 8 are added so that participants
can earn certification in Pediatric First Aid and CPR. Parents/
Guadrians must register participants with AnnaMaria Carleton
at (941) 757-2900 ext. 272 or acarleton@elc-manatee.org. Class
size is limited to 16 participants. Cost is FREE.
Integrating The Standards: Phonological Awareness
Monday 10/13/2014 Course #5414
Wednesday 12/3/2014 Course #5417
4:00-6:00pm
This training is appropriate for teachers, assistants, and directors,
and it is open to all. Participants have an opportunity to create a
developmentally appropriate activity, related to a benchmark in
phonological awareness, to be implemented in the classroom.
Emphasis is on planning and implementation. Standards training
is a prerequisite. Participants are requested to bring a copy of the
Standards for Four-Year-Olds book to this class. Cost is FREE.
Participants must register online through the Department of
Children & Families website. (2 hours and 0.20 CEU)
52
How to Administer the ASQ-3 & ASQ:SE
purpose of the VPK Assessment as well as how to properly
12:00pm-2:00pm
Cost is FREE. Participants must register online through the
Wednesday 10/15/2014
Facilitators: Kerry Gaylord & AnnaMaria Carleton
Topics including screening and assessment will be discussed as
well as exploring the new features of the Ages & Stages Questionnaires Third Edition and the ASQ: Social-Emotional Screening
Tool. Participants will be actively involved observing children and
completing ASQs. Cost is $5.00, FREE to all QRIS participants.
administer, record, and score each of the assessment measures.
Department of Children & Families website.
Wednesday 11/5/2014 6:30pm-8:30pm
Pitch For Literacy
In this training participants will be provided with an overview of
The Early Learning Coalition (ELC) of Manatee County, Inc. has
Teaching Strategies GOLD Overview
Facilitator: Kerry Gaylord & Tina Trivers
the Teaching Strategies GOLD observational assessment sys-
American Red Cross First Aid and CPR/AED
tem. We will review its purpose, structure, identify key aspects
Saturdays 10/18/2014 or 11/15/2014
actively observe children in video clips, assigning an appropriate
for Adult, Child, & Infant
of the system and review the assessment cycle. Participants will
8:30 am-2:30 pm with 1/2 hour lunch
level to each based on the observations. Cost is $5.00, FREE
Learn the appropriate techniques for applying standard first aid
procedures and cardiopulmonary resuscitation with and without
AED’s. Class size is limited to 20 participants. Cost is $50.00 per
participant, $35.00 for QRIS participants. (5.5 inservice hours)
Beyond Centers & Circle Time: The Series
Tuesday 10/28/2014
Wednesday 10/29/2014 & Thursday 10/30/2014
6:00pm-8:00pm
Facilitators: Christine Kendall & Susan Dixon
Beyond Centers and Circle Time: Scaffolding and Assessing the
Play of Young Children is a play-based curriculum that focuses
for QRIS and all TSGOLD participants.
Director’s Forum
Thursday 11/6/2014 12:30pm start
Network with, brainstorm with, and learn from other directors
ELC, the Kiwanis Club of Bradenton, the Rays Baseball Foundation, child care providers and community leaders.
Thanks to the Rays Baseball Foundation, the momentum gained
through the expansion in 2014 will continue for the 2015 event.
The results of the 2014 program included:
legislature are the intended sources for our discussion. The topics
for October and November are yet to be determined. Register by
distributed, a 92% increase over the 2013 event.
the 2013 event.
Wednesday 11/5/2014. Cost is FREE.
involve the participant in reviewing the theories upon which the
Freud. They will explore how young children acquire knowledge
This training will provide participants with an overview of the
and scaffolding possibilities to support young children in achieving
Year-Olds and examples of developmentally appropriate in-
(.6 CEU credit, $14.00 additional cost)
Participants must register online through the Department of
Standards for Four-Year-Olds (2011)
Facilitator: Pam Parmenter & Julie Welch
and skills. They will learn to plan and organize play environments
Florida Early Learning and Developmental Standards for Four-
school readiness. Cost is $15.00, FREE to QRIS participants
structional techniques for four-year-old children. Cost is FREE.
Friday 10/31/2014 9:00am-12:00pm
preschool children. The program is a partnership between the
• 191 pre-school classrooms participated, a 71% increase over
Advisory Council, FLAEYC, and FACCM recommendations to the
Wednesday 11/12/2014 4:00pm-7:00pm Course #5416
Core Competencies Training: Afterschool Practioners
in the 2014 community-wide "Every Child A Reader" initiative for
• 3,310 books, backpacks, tip sheets, and book marks were
Florida Early Learning and Development
curriculum is developed: Vygotsky, Piaget, Erikson, and Anna
to continue the expansion and enhancements that were achieved
about common topics or current events. The Early Learning
on the intensity and density of well-planned, well-organized, and
scaffolded play experiences. The six-hour introductory series will
been awarded a $5,000 grant from the Rays Baseball Foundation
Children & Families website.
Provider Meetings
Thursday 11/20/2014
The event will be implemented in the spring of 2015 and will
Children's Parade, and Party in the Park. The goals of the "Every
training helps practitioners identify what they know and what they
sistance to our school readiness and VPK providers on a variety
access to books and exposure to reading to help build a strong
FREE to QRIS participants.
participating in these meetings. Main topic is yet to be determined.
will receive books and participate in the volunteer-led reading
those attending and the time you will attend. Cost is FREE.
preschool classroom.
Facilitiator: Pam Parmenter
OEL has identified several attributes, skills, and knowledge sets
12:30pm & 6:30pm start
coincide with the statewide Children's Week events, the local
responsibility, and then tiered into component areas. This OEL
Provider meetings are a way to provide training and technical as-
Child a Reader Day" program are to increase preschool children's
need to know to be successful in their positions. Cost is $10.00,
of pertinent topics. Training credit is awarded for attending and
foundation for literacy. It is estimated that more than 3,000 children
Register by Wednesday 11/19/2014. Please indicate the name of
sessions, as well as the continued reading at home and in their
that effective professionals demonstrate. These are sorted by
How to Administer the VPK Assessment
Tuesday 11/4/2014 4:00pm-7:00pm Course #5415
Facilitator: Pam Parmenter & Marcia Seibert
In this professional development, participants will learn the
53
Sprouts Child Development Center
14305 Covenant Way
Bradenton, FL 34202
941-907-7333
Saint Joseph's Catholic School
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-755-2611
Saint Stephen's After School Program
315 41st Street West
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-746-2121
Sun Academy
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-752-1715
Sunny Daze Preschool East
9922 SR 64 East
Bradenton, FL 34212
941-750-0042
Sunshine Academy
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-794-3143
T
Tabernacle Christian School
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-746-1915
Tallevast Community Center
7727 17th Street Court East
Tallevast, FL 34270
941-355-2337
Taylor, Linda
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-755-8418
Thompson Academy
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-748-2162
54
Tillman, Lorenda
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-748-3728
Tiny Tots University
930 9th Street Drive West
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-723-9072
TLC Day Care Center
3407 17th Street Court East
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-748-4799
Virkus, Brenda
135 Mill Run East
Bradenton, FL 34212
941-744-0123
W
Walker, Tina
Bradenton, FL 34203
941-752-6629
Toddlers Inn Child Care Center
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-746-4631
Ward Temple AME Church
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-747-8288
Town & Country Preschool
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-746-3951
Wee Care Center For Children, Inc.
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-747-3925
Tree Of Life Preschool
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-747-1756
Wee Care Christian Academy
10540 Hamilton Way
941-322-6409
Trinity Children's Center
3200 Manatee Avenue West
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-748-8608
WEE World Preschool
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-722-0810
U
Weems, Darla
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-747-8944
United Community Center
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-746-7470
V
Van Nostrand, Barbara
Bradenton, FL 34203
941-752-7215
Van Ostenbridge, Jackie
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-798-9994
Weigel, Rita
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-747-2576
Weitz, Lori
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-792-7257
West Coast Christian Academy
Bradenton, FL 34203
941-755-9667
Wiggins, Selina
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-708-3247
Wolfgang, Darlene
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-405-4156
Woodland Early Childhood Center
9607 SR 70 East
Bradenton, FL 34202
941-753-8588
Wooden Shoes Childcare Center
4875 Swift Road
Sarasota, FL 34231
941-924-0717
Wright, May Dixon
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-721-0232
Y
YMCA Manatee Family
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-782-0220
Young Children and Media:
How Much is Too Much?
Words: Pam Parmenter
Y
oung children’s brains today are bombarded with images
and messages in ways unlike those when their parents
were growing up. Parents who want their youngest to
stop crying hand the child the smart phone to play with. Television and video games replace adult supervision and playing with
the child with three-dimensional toys and imagination. Parents
celebrate one-year-olds who can operate the remote control.
American Academy of Pediatrics Recommendations
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has established what
is called the “Screen Time Standard” for out-of-home care such
as child care programs. Screen time is defined as television,
DVD, video viewing and computer use whether on desktops,
laptops, tablets or smartphones. For children under the age of
two years, screen time should not be permitted.
For children two years of age or older, total media time should be
thirty minutes once a week, and should be limited to educational
or physical activity use only. Meals and snacks should have no
television, video and DVD viewing. Computer use should be in
no more than fifteen-minute increments except for school-age
children completing homework assignments and children with
special health care needs who require assistive and adaptive
computer technology.
The AAP further suggests that parents/guardians should be
informed if any screen media is used in the early care and
education program. It should be free of advertising and brand
placement for children to be able to use it (AAP et al, 2012).
Florida Child Care Licensing Requirements
Child care centers in Florida may not use any type of electronic
media (television, videos, movies, computer games) with children under two years of age. Electronic media may be used for
educational or physical activity purposes with children two years
of age and older. Unlike the AAP recommendations though,
the electronic media can be used for one to two hours per day
in child care centers. There is no restriction for family day care
homes, nor are there any guidelines for those before and after
school programs not required to be licensed.
Infants by 3 months of age
• 40% regularly watch television
Infants/Toddlers by 24 months of age
• 90% regularly watch television
Children 6 months to 6 years
• 66% watch television daily.
• 24% watch videos or DVDs every day
• 65% watch videos/DVDs several time per week
• 27% use a computer
• 13% play console video games
• 8% play handheld video games
Why the Fuss?
During the first two years, children’s brains and bodies grow
and develop rapidly. Children this age need relationships and
positive interactions with people. This is when they develop
empathy, language, how to relate to one another, how to selfregulate emotions (i.e. cry when hurt, laugh when happy, etc.).
This is also when they learn to love to read and play. All of the
above need caring, loving, positive adults who can read with,
laugh with, feel sad with, and play with the children.
Early care and education staff should always be asking if there
is another way to learn the skills through hands-on experiences
rather than with media. Studies show that children who are
watching more than eight hours of television per week run a
higher risk of being overweight than other children their age.
For each hour of television per day, three-year olds had higher
intakes of sugar-sweetened drinks and lower intakes of fruits and
vegetables. Among four-year olds in another study, increase in
body mass was directly related to an increase in the average
number of television viewing hours per week (AAP et al, 2012).
What Else Can Be Done
Play with blocks that do not interconnect. When children use
these types of blocks, they learn the fundamentals of engineering, physics, architecture, and higher-level mathematics. The
Early Learning Coalition offers family events called BLOCK
Fests™ in which parents, children, and staff experience play
with five types of blocks. Contact the Coalition Quality Team
for more information.
As you are making dinner, have your child tear the lettuce into
bite-sized pieces. Your child is in your sight and is practicing a
fine motor skill needed for later writing. Read to and with your
child at least once daily. Even if reading has never been your
strength, just sharing the space, the time, and telling your own
stories with the pictures influences a child positively about reading for the rest of his/her life.
Have many conversations with your child. Tell your infant the
steps you are taking to change the diaper or bathe. Sing silly
songs with your children. Play games with language. Change
the first letters of words and laugh over the new words you create.
Really listen to your child’s ideas. Turn off the TV or computer
and have fun with one another!!
Resources:
American Academy of Pediatrics, American Public Health
Association, and National Resource Center for Health and Safety
in Child Care and Early Education. 2012. Preventing Childhood
Obesity in Early Care and Education: Selected Standards from
Caring for Our Children: National Health and Safety Performance
Standards; Guidelines for Early Care and Education Programs,
3rd Edition.
http://nrckids.org/CFOC3/PDFVersion/preventing_obesity.pdf
Pam Parmenter, M.A.Ed. is the Quality Initiatives Program Manager at the Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County, with
over 30 years of early childhood experience. Training, Program
Assessment, and Technical Assistance are services in her department for families and early care and education programs in
Manatee County.
Meet Gavin, age 2. His working parents often
struggle with keeping enough food on his plate.
They rely on The Food Bank of Manatee to help
keep him nourished.
Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Young Children’s Dance
Contemporary & Hip Hop
Preschool to Adult l Recreational & Competitive Levels
DRAG RACING
YEAR ROUND ACTION!
OF MANATEE
How can you help families like Gavin’s?
• Host a Food & Funds Drive
• Attend an Empty Bowls Luncheon
Thurs, Nov 6 at Main Street, Lakewood Ranch
Fri, Nov 7 at Renaissance on 9th, Bradenton
FALL Registration
$20 OFF
Registration Fee
New Students Only
• Participate in Stuff the Bus
November 22 & 23 at all Manatee County Publix Stores
For more information on upcoming events,
visit foodbankofmanatee.org. f
58
www.BeyondDancingSarasota.coml 941.907.8183
7313 International Place l Lakewood Ranch
I-75
TO
EXIT 220 - THEN
EAST ON
SR 64
BRADENTONMOTORSPORTS.COM
59
KEEP
AN EYE ON
Don’t Scream…Massage !
YOUR KIDS
Words: Dr. Faye J. Golden
The alternative way to settle a child down for the evening
W
e’ve all been there. You have cut out the caffeine, the sugar,
and late night TV, but still your infant, child or tween/teen
won’t settle down for quiet time, bed time, or homework respectively. Worse, you simply feel disconnected from your child and
frustrated with their behavior. Why? And what can you do about it?
There are many answers as to why children struggle to settle
down. A child may have special needs and be easily stimulated.
Examples of this include children ranging from infants to teens with
ADHD and Autism as well as foster and adoptive children who have
Attachment Disorders. A child could also have allergies or other
health conditions that aggravate them and make it hard to be still
or settle down. For example, eczema is itchy and painful, and even
after a steroid calms the symptoms, fear of their inevitable return
can keep a child awake at night. Children may also have negative
feelings associated with bedtime, such as being sent to bed for
bad behavior or being left out of perceived family fun. Finally, they
may simply want your attention and nothing else is working. So
what can you do that does NOT require a prescription, raise your
blood pressure or require more patience than you have when your
best plans fail? MASSAGE.
Yes, massage for your child. Massage has incredible benefits
that go beyond simple relaxation. In addition to moisturizing
the skin and relaxing muscles, massage positively impacts the
nervous, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, and immune systems.
When you massage your child, your safe and gentle touch stimulates the release of oxytocin, known as the cuddle hormone (yes
even with older children), and other endorphins (natural hormones
made by your body to relieve pain and sooth you). The gentle
manual pressure you apply also promotes circulation of blood
which carries oxygen to the muscles and organs of your child’s
body. When the body is relaxed, we are able to breath deeper,
which leads to greater relaxation. And as amazing as all of this
is, there are even more benefits. Massage can gently move
gas through the digestive system and give your child relief from
gastrointestinal discomfort. Finally, massage positively affects
the immune system by decreasing cortisol levels.
60
What does cortisol do? Cortisol keeps your sugar in your
blood stream, which leaves your child hyper. It increases the
amount of gastric-acid in the stomach, which makes your child
hungry. Cortisol also acts as an antidiuretic – meaning it causes
your child to hold his or her urine until he is completely relaxed,
and then urinates (usually in bed!). In summary, cortisol (the
hormone produced in response to stress) equals a hyper, hungry
child who is likely to wet the bed. In older children, it looks like
this: They stay up watching TV, playing video games, procrastinating over homework, etc. They can’t sleep because they are
hungry, and when they get up at night to go to the bathroom, they
stop by the kitchen and eat ALL of your leftovers. So, are you
ready to try parent child massage? Here are a few helpful tips.
Step one, bathe your child or insist that your child bathe. This
will decrease the amount of dirt and pollutants on their skin and hair
which can aggravate them. Has your child recently rebelled against
bathing? Go to step two! Step two, determine the best approach
for your child. If you have an infant or toddler, you might lay them
in the center of a baby blanket. Younger elementary children may
enjoy a back and foot massage as they read a bedtime story to
you. For those with older children, you might catch them during
TV time and work the shoulders where heavy book bags cause
constant muscle tightening. They may even surprise you and talk
about their day on commercial breaks. Step three, relax and go
with the flow. You might get 20 minutes in one day or have a dirty
diaper (or homework) limit you to 5 precious minutes. Either way,
massage is a safe, healthy, non-verbal way to bond with your child
and help them settle down for the evening.
If you have questions, or would like more information about
what you read today, please call 941-447-9739 Monday through
Friday after 5:00pm. Be sure to ask about registering for a FREE
Parent-Child Massage workshop for yourself or a group. This
hands-on event teaches the proper way to give a parent-child massage. Remember, I always have time to speak with a fellow parent.
• Every Child, Every Day,
Dr. Faye J. Golden, Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine
4910 14th Street West Suite 103, Bradenton, FL 34207
Why
examinations
are so
important.
Words: Dr’s Brad and Ashley Masuga
A
s the new school year began, parents have a lot on their plates.
Trying to prepare for daily activities and new routines can always be a challenge.
Supplies, back-packs, organizing lunches, dealing with that transition
from summer to school time has no doubt led to a frantic last six weeks or so.
Then there is always that moment when you ask yourself, have I forgotten anything?
As children begin their new classes with computer work and homework, visual demand begins
to increase dramatically. Early school months are an excellent time to take your child in for an eye
examination. Often times, children will not complain of eye strain, fatigue, or blurred vision to a parent
or teacher. Children are often unaware that they are suffering from a problem, and if they are, some
are too embarrassed to say anything. Developmental delays and struggles with school are common
in children suffering with a visual problem. Parents should be aware of early signs of a visual impairment including headaches, rubbing of the eyes, a head tilt, and avoidance of near work and reading.
Many schools are now offering vision screenings; however, this does not take the place of a
comprehensive eye exam. Not only will an eye care professional look for refractive errors such as
near-sightedness, far-sightedness and astigmatism, but they also evaluate your child for a lazy eye,
amblyopia, color vision abnormalities, and eye muscle weakness. A child’s vision is highly correlated
with his/her development and learning. If children are to be successful in school, we have to give
them the greatest opportunity and be sure that sight is not limiting their potential.
Parents often wonder, what is the appropriate age for a child’s first eye exam? The American
Optometric Association recommends an exam for all children between the ages of six and twelve
months. A follow-up exam should be scheduled again at age three, age five, and annually thereafter.
“InfantSee” is a program where participating providers offer a free comprehensive eye exam
to all children prior to their first year of life. This program was designed to increase awareness of
pediatric vision and promote eye care as a part of wellness for children.
Although rare, serious conditions do occur. Out of the 4 million children born every year in the
United Sates, one in 20,000 will have retinoblastoma, one in 30 will develop amblyopia and one
in 25 will have strabismus. Early detection will ensure that our children have healthy eyes and will
allow a better quality of life.
Eye exams, of course are not only for our pediatric patients, but also for our teen and pre-teen
students. A common topic in the exam room is the right age for your child to begin wearing contact
lenses. There is no hard and fast rule with an exact age for starting children in contact lenses. It often
becomes a group decision made by the parent, the child and the doctor. Taking care of contact
lenses involves removing them each night before bed, cleaning them with proper solutions, and
replacing them on a timely basis consistent with your optometrist’s recommendations. Typically,
children can use contact lenses at age 11 or 12; however, if the child exhibits responsible behavior,
exceptions can be made and lenses can be fit at much younger ages.
If your child has not had their eye exam yet, or if he or she has never had a comprehensive eye
exam from an optometrist, now is the time. What are you waiting for?
61
PLENTY OF FOOD
Critical Aspects of Food Access Discussion Panel
Moderator: Keith Cate, WFLA Channel 8 News Anchor
Panelists: Frank (Hank) D. Scott III, President and General
Manager Long and Scott Farms, Inc.; Anne Palmer, MAIA,
Program Director; Johns Hopkins Center
for a Livable Future, Bloomberg School
of Public Health; Matt Knott, President,
Feeding America; Diana Greene, PhD,
Deputy Superintendent of Instruction,
Manatee County Schools and Brian West,
Media and Community Relations Manager,
Publix Super Markets.
For Thought…
forum highlights hunger issues
Question from Moderator:
“What do you see as the biggest
challenge?
Words: Bonnie L. Quick
H
OW can a nation like the United States of America - that
produces so much food - have problems with hunger
and nutrition?
Volunteers from Palmetto FFA, DeSoto FFA, Hardee Senior FFA,
and Duette 4-H
Last month, the Mosaic Corporation hosted its 2nd annual
Florida Hunger Relief Forum in Bradenton where experts from
local, state and federal agencies participated to once again try
and find the answers.
“This event was designed to pull resources together and educate,”
explained Mosaic Senior Vice President of Public Affairs, Mark
Kaplan, at the event which took place at Renaissance on 9th.
“We are not immune to hunger here in Central Florida where out
of 3.5 million residents 1 million go hungry. How can we have so
much food and have so much hunger? Access is one problem.
We need to be focused on issues that matter.”
Keynote Speaker:
Florida’s Roadmap to Living Healthy
Adam Putnam, Commissioner, Florida Department of Agriculture
and Consumer Services.
“The Florida Roadmap to Living Healthy is a data driven
interactive approach to problem solving,” said Putnam.
Volunteers from Palmetto FFA, DeSoto FFA, Hardee Senior FFA,
and Duette 4-H
“This is the first time Florida has used this type of
technology and it is a vital tool to guide our new look at
the information we gather.
“Hunger is a real problem. In Manatee County alone
50,000 people live below the poverty level, yet the
issue is not that Florida agriculture does not produce
enough food. It is not a lack of supply. We grow 300
commodities in Florida, yet despite that one in six
people in Florida are food insecure and one in four
children are affected.
“We live in a society that produces 50 percent food
waste. We throw away more calories in a day then
many people in the world eat in more than one day.
We can do better. We have smart people who can
identity and stretch our resources. The challenge of
the day is how to apply the 21st Century tools to ageold problems.
View the map at
www.FreshFromFlorida.com/RoadmapToHealth
Keynote Speaker:
The Impact of Food Deserts on Public Health
Mari Gallagher, Mari Gallagher Research & Consulting Group
A Food Desert has an imbalance of food choice. This most easily
available product is high in salt, sugar and fat. High calories and
low nutritional value cannot support a healthy diet on a regular
basis. It is imperative to identify and address these issues.
Commissioner Ad
am Putnam with
Palmetto FFA
“I have never seen a state take this kind of initiative,”
said research consultant Gallagher of ‘Florida’s
Roadmap to Healthy Living’.
“Why do the statistics matter? Day in and day out we
are turning to items with low nutritional value. Can we
easily acquire healthy foods? It becomes more and
more difficult as diversity in stores selling non-nutritional
items increases.
“This has a bad impact on public health. Major
improvement of healthy food access reduces liver
disease, diabetes, diet related cancers and cardio
vascular disease. Improving diet and nutrition by 1
percent can prevent 650 premature deaths over a seven
year period.”
Keynote Speaker:
Environmental Interventions to Improve
Health Food Access
Joel Gittelsohn, PhD, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of
Public Health.
Kei
th Cate, N
All agreed that hunger is a complex
Currently se ews Channel 8,
problem. Government agencies, of Feeding A rves on the board
merica Tam
pa Bay
non-profits and corporations need to
pull together to identify gaps and improve services. The only
way this will be solved is by working with each other and listening.
“There are so many variables in farming,” said Brian
West of Publix.
“We are losing farmland and mid-size farms. Raising
awareness of hunger. Creating right economic incentives.
“Our concern is when kids are not with us will they get
healthy food at home? We don’t always know they have
enough food over the weekend.”
“The need is overwhelming, a monumental task. Our
first step is safe and affordable food. A lot of foods are
nutrient deficient processed food. We are constantly
exposed to food.
“We have to offer quality choices, teach consumers
what to do with it and how to get kids to try it and develop
a taste for it. It takes a bit of exposure to get a child to
take a piece of fruit versus a candy bar.”
According to Dr. Gittelsohn, food environment and obesity are
related.
“The kinds of food and calories that are easily accessible
can either lead to higher rates of obesity or increasing
health issues. Changing placement of healthier foods
on store shelves, renovating supermarkets, developing
more farmer’s markets, and mobile food vans all work
to improve access.
“In order for this to be effective, we must work in
multiples. We cannot just do it piecemeal. No single
solution or venue is apt to be an answer. We must
develop evidence based on real data using environment,
actual behavior changes, and community engagement
and planning to achieve adequate exposure.”
Mark Kaplan - Senior Vice President - Public Affairs The Mosaic Company
The Mosaic Company is the world’s leading producer of concentrated phosphate and potash, two essential crop ingredients.
The mission of the company is to help the world to grow the food it needs. Mosaic is committed to strengthening food security
throughout the world and preserving water resources. The Mosaic Company and the Mosaic Company Foundation partner in
food programs and make local community investments. For more information visit www.mosaicco.com
PROVIDING SCHOLARSHIPS, MENTORS & HOPE Take Stock in Children is a powerful and proven college mentoring and scholarship program for deserving children.
Students are accepted as early as the sixth grade through an application process. Once the student is selected, the student
along with their parent or guardian, sign a performance contract committing to good grades and behavior, remaining
drug free and crime free, and most importantly, to meet with a mentor for thirty minutes per week, every week during the
school year, on the school campus. Upon graduation, as long as the student has maintained their agreement, they receive
a college scholarship. The Take Stock in Children program has a 96% success rate, of keeping students in school,
receiving their diploma, attending college and entering the workforce.
CONTACT: Diana Dill, Executive Director (941) 751-6550 ext. # 2172
DianaDill@manateeschools.net
Or visit our website TakeStockManatee.com
65
Produced
In
Palmetto!
The story behind why the circus – and Disney,
Monster and Marvel - came to town.
that, believe in it and be passionate
about it.”
Feld’s facility, located on 46 acres
on US 301 in eastern Palmetto, is
the second largest single-occupant
building in Florida, trailing only behind
NASA’s vehicle assembly building
facility at Kennedy Space Center. The
580,000 -square-foot space houses
offices, shops and rehearsal areas.
There are also 22 monster trucks, 13
portable ice rinks and 10,000 costumes
located within the facility.
Feld debuted its newest show, Marvel
Universe Live, in Tampa back in July. The
arena spectacular features all the bestknown Marvel characters performing in a
live-action movie. Spiderman, Thor, and
the Avengers are not limited to the silver
screen; instead they are larger than life
flying above audiences on cables and
vessels crafted specifically for the show.
P
ALMETTO –
While the allure of the
big top circus may be
a thing of the past, the appeal
of what was inside—the death
defying stunts, exotic creatures
and dramatic live production—is
still attracting crowds all over the
world.
These shows are no longer
limited to circus acts and
they don’t take place in the
cumbersome canvas tents like
they did in the past. Instead,
acrobats swing from the
rafters of multiuse arena’s
and exotic animals arrive in
freight cars or trucks.
Shows where entertainers complete risky feats
and special ef fects,
stunt doubles or
computer animations, have
66
been reborn in the form of live performances like Disney on Ice, Monster Jam
and Marvel Universe. While the acts for
these shows travel all over the globe, the
nucleus of the productions is located in
our own backyard.
Feld Entertainment Studios, in Palmetto,
is the production and promotion company
behind the show phenomenon. In other
words, Feld is to live performances
what HBO is to award-winning television
series.
The production company manages
world - renowned shows including
Ringling Brothers Barnum & Baily Circus,
Marvel Universe Live, Disney Live,
Disney on Ice, Monster Jam, Monster
Energy Supercross, AMS Oil Arenacross
and Nuclear Cowboyz. These acts
are multi-generational, appealing to
audiences of all ages in 73 countries or
six of seven continents.
“Our product is children’s smiles, “said
Casey Rodgers, Vice President of Finance
Management at Feld. “It’s really
easy to get behind a
concept like
“There are motorcycles racing about,
explosions, all the stuff you see on the
movie screen, but done in real life,” said
Rodgers.
“There are no computer generated
effects in this one, only stuntmen doing
what they do best.”
The show was created, designed,
developed and rehearsed at the Palmetto
facility.
This summer, it embarked on a two-year
tour that Rodgers hopes will expand
internationally.
So how did a production company of
this stature wind up in a sleepy tomatoproducing town of Palmetto? Back in
2012, Feld was looking to consolidate
four facilities located on the east coast
of the US including Washington, D.C.,
Chicago, North Carolina and Palmetto.
“Manatee County was offering up incentives that the other places weren’t,” Rodgers said. “We were able to get the right
location, the right motivations and the right
property for what we were trying to do.”
Feld purchased their current building in
2012, and after a year-long renovation
the company was able to relocate. The
quality of life in the area also attracted
company employees.
“It’s a hometown feel with big cities within
driving distance,” Rodgers said. “So you
are exposed to as much city culture and
events as you want.”
One of the most important factors in
choosing Manatee County as a home
base was the amount of workforce
diversity. “We employ the entire spectrum
of the workforce,” Rodgers said. “We
need performers, tradesmen, janitors,
executive level personnel, managerial
people - we just didn’t have that in North
Carolina or D.C.”
As of Dec. 31, 2013, Feld had created
269 jobs in the area ranging from
mechanics, welders and seamstresses
to business directors, vice presidents
and marketing gurus.
“It’s a combination of people relocating
and new hires in the area,” said Rodgers.
“We bring in steel and cotton and
produce a show.”
67
Mechanics and welders are needed to
service each 14,000-pound monster
truck, while carpenters and engineers
construct complex show sets. Designers
and tailors are responsible for creating
more than 10,000 costumes valued at
nearly $1 million, and operators with
Zamboni experience are crucial to
maintaining all of the ice rinks, each
consisting of more than 11,000 gallons
of frozen water.
“We are actually producing shows here,
rehearsing here, building and designing them, developing and envisioning
t h e m r ig h t
here,” Rodgers said “The
whole thing
is being
done here in
Palmetto.”
Casey Rodgers
VP of Finance Management
68
Af ter each
show is
perfect and
complete,
it travels to
Tampa via train giving local people a
chance to see it first, before the rest
of the world has the opportunity. Feld
earns 95 per-cent of its revenue outside
of Florida and 40 per-cent of revenue
outside of the US.
“Every salary or expenditure we have is
paid for by a person buying a ticket for
a show in a faraway US city, in Europe or
beyond,” Rodgers said. “That’s all fresh
new money coming back into Manatee
County.”
Feld was born in 1967, when founder Irvin
Feld acquired Ringling Brothers Barnum
and Bailey Circus from John Ringling
North (nephew of circus tycoon John
Ringling) during a ceremony held at the
Coliseum in Rome, Italy.
The amphitheater setting became the
inspiration behind Feld Entertainment’s
company that thrived on performing
indoors, in multiuse arenas, instead of
portable tents.
“At that time the circus was a single unit
that traveled by train,” Rodgers said. “Irvin
created another unit, also traveling by
train, so he could hit twice as many cities.”
In 1981, Feld acquired a license to
produce Walt Disney’s World on Ice, a
show featuring skating performances.
“Disney on Ice was something Kenneth
Feld (Irvin’s son) dreamed up after
purchasing a show called Holiday on Ice
which featured ice capades,” Rodger’s
said. “After a trial period, he negotiated
a 10-year-contract with Disney.”
In 1995, Feld created the Ringling
Brothers and Barnum and Baily Center
for Elephant conservation located in
Central Florida. The center is a research,
reproduction and retirement facility
dedicated to the preservation of Asian
elephants, an endangered species.
Since the center’s inception, over 25
baby elephants have been born into
the conservatory and nearly $500,000
raised for a variety of research and
conservation projects.
Today, Feld’s clientele has expanded to
include nearly a dozen death-defying
live acts performing nearly 5,000 shows
a year. The company is run by a third
generation group of leaders within the
Feld family: Executive Vice President’s
Juliette Feld, Nicole Feld and Alana
Feld and Executive Chairman and CEO
Kenneth Feld. “The family brings a lot of
creativity to the process,” said Rodgers.
“It’s been a journey and they’ve really
come a long way.”
stunts only seen in movies at an arena
near their home. “We found that during
the recession, we didn’t’ see a lot of
decline in sales because you really get
a lot of bang for your buck,” said Melinda
Hartline, director of public relations.
Rodgers hopes to market the Palmetto
facility as a “one-stop shop” for entertain-
ers who can use the facility to produce
their own projects like commercials,
films or plays. “Its not just for our exclusive use,” he said. “We want people to
come here, rehearse build design and
stay in the area while they are filming or
producing.”
Performers, animals and sets travel by
plane, train and truck. Arena’s sell out
with families packing in to see the live
shows with real athletes performing
acrobatic feats, animals displaying an
authentic interaction with their human
counterparts and lights, color, pageantry
and the real-life experience one can’t
have in the same way in a movie theater.
“What’s refreshing about these lives
shows is that they are very immersive and
very real,” Rodgers said. “I’m seeing real
people, real animals and real effects and
an old-fashioned idea of entertainment
where there is no room for mistakes.”
For around $100, a family of four can
see Olympic-worthy acrobatics and
69
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COOLING & HEATING
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Sales • Service • Installation
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Bryan Rench
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First Vice President - Investments
101 Riverfront Blvd., Ste. 700
Bradenton, FL 34205
Direct 941-747-6666 • Toll Free 800-695-6662
Fax 941-746-4136
kristin.carter@wfadvisors.com
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Investment and Insurance Products: u NOT FDIC Insured u NO Bank Guarantee u MAY Lose Value
Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank afﬁliate
of Wells Fargo & Company. ©2013 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. All rights reserved. 1113-02329 [84976-v3]
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941.753.3053 ext 229 or rich@kpins.com
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sellers to our state-of-the-art “E-match”
system for buyers, we will be there
for you every step of the way!
Madison Wells White
Realtor®
Office: 941-776-5571
Cell: 941-405-6917
8268 US 301N, Parrish, FL 34219
Fax: 941-776-9845
MadisonWellsWhite@gmail.com
MadisonWellsWhite.com
70
Matthew Guthrie
Realtor®
Office: 941-737-1500
Cell: 941-776-5571
Fax: 941-776-9845
mguthrie34219@yahoo.com
www.LeslieWellsRealty.com
71
WIN
PIZZA
FOR
A
YEAR!
EVERYONE loves Pizza.
Now, courtesy of NEXTGEN magazine you can enjoy pizza for a year!
One lucky Kindergarten through 5th grade winner can get their hands on a Domino’s Pizza gift card that will allow them to buy a large pizza every week.
This is the latest fantastic prize for kids to win after we gave away an IPAD Air and a family weekend in Orlando in our first two issues.
Watch out for more fantastic free to enter competitions from NEXTGEN…your family magazine!
To win this fantastic Pizza prize, simply submit a
150 word entry telling us which famous person
you would love to share a pizza with and why?
It can be a historical figure, a sportsman or
sportswoman, someone who has achieved great
things in shaping the United States, a pop star or
movie star…or anyone else who has captured your
imagination. We want to hear why that person
would be your pizza partner!
Entries must be emailed by November 12th to
competitions@nextgenmagazine.org
ASK Dr. SHARON
doctorotis@nextgenmagazine.org
Why it’s so important for parents
to reinforce the behavior they want!
My child is 10 years-old but still gets up during the
night and wants to come into our bed. What should
we do? – Diane, Palmetto.
It is important that parents reinforce the behavior they want. That
can be done by using rewards when your child does the correct
behavior the first time they are asked.
They can also mailed or handed in to the Early
Learning Coalition of Manatee County office at
600 8th Avenue West, Suite 100, Palmetto, FL, 34221.
When your child does not come in during the night or goes to
bed on time reward with play money, tickets from the party store,
or even cut up pieces of paper.
Please mark them for the attention of PIZZA Contest,
NEXTGEN magazine.
I would get a few things the child likes at the Dollar Store and put
in a box. The child would get a ticket for every night he listened
and did not get out of bed.
Normal competition rules apply. Editor’s decision is final.
When your child goes two nights in a row without coming out,
he or she can draw from the prize box.
TUTORING
From Florida’s Best
In-Home Tutoring Service
• All Subjects • All Grades
• Common Core/FCAT
• SAT/ACT Prep
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941-722-6600
HomeTownTutors.com
*Call for details.
72
If the child does not listen they will go to bed 15 minutes earlier
each night.
Can you offer any advice to stop two siblings, six and eight, from always arguing?
– KD, Sarasota.
Once you realize it takes two to tango the arguing
will calm down. In other words, time them both
out and reward both.
If they do not argue for two hours they get
tickets or quarters. If they get five they can
draw from the prizes in a box. Before Dollar
Stores we used play money for bigger prizes.
It is important for younger elementary children to be rewarded as soon as possible.
The consequence could be time out. Set
a timer for the number of minutes of each
child and have them sit in a chair until the
timer goes off. They soon tire of the consistency and want the reward.
They will learn to get along for longer periods
of time. The more the parent participates, the
more they argue. Make it their problem to
solve or they both get the time out.
I recently lost my 66-year-old mother. It has had a
really bad effect on my three kids that their Grandma is gone – Ms. JMC, Lakewood Ranch.
The stages of grief are the same for everyone, children and
adults.
The first stage of loss is shock, then denial, anger and depression and finally acceptance.
Children show grief differently than adults and carry a tension
with the event that can manifest as anger or irritability. Some
children get very hyper and agitated.
They may get sad initially but if the grief is lingering it may result
in fighting.
Find ways to honor grandma. Plant a rose bush or tree in her
honor. They can process their grief by making a memory board
or a slide show of her pictures set to music.
Scan older pictures and include them. Some children like
to do a memory book or story book of their life with their
grandma.
My youngest daughter is four years old and
has not coped at all well with the transition
to her new VPK class
– Maria, Bradenton.
Four and a half is the hardest stage a child goes
through until puberty.
Many parents bring their children into my center
wanting me to diagnose them with ADHD.
I explain that the reason we start children in kindergarten is that it’s the most even time for them
developmentally and called the angel stage.
VPK offers great opportunity for a child to get an
idea of the structure of school and develop social
skills so they will be ready to learn higher skills
when the time comes.
Some children who are more home bodies may not
transition as easily as a child who is a people person and loves to do new things. Trust me, they
all settle down.
Dr. Sharon Otis is a licensed clinical mental health psychotherapist who is owner and clinical director of the Family Care Counseling Center in Bradenton.
73
A Day at
the Museum
Words: Kara Chalmers
Pictures: The Ringling
T
he Ringling is one of our area’s – in fact, one of our state’s – top
attractions. It’s the place I always bring out-of-town visitors,
who always give it rave reviews. It’s a place that relaxes me,
where I feel surrounded by beauty, a place that stimulates the
senses, as well as the intellect. It’s the place I bring my daughters
as a special treat.
When I first learned about The Ringling, “family-friendly” was not
the first phrase that sprang to mind. Officially called the John &
Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the state art museum of Florida,
it houses the Ringlings’ huge art collection, which includes
masterpieces by Rubens and other greats. At first, I had scary
visions of strolling with my young daughters through galleries
filled with priceless artwork just begging to be touched by little,
often grubby, hands.
But as it turned out, there’s way more to The Ringling than priceless
art (although the art is amazing). In fact, it seems more accurate
to say The Ringling is actually many museums. The property is 66
acres, after all. When you visit, you not only get to stroll through the
serene galleries of the world-class art museum, you get to tour a
historic mansion and a one-of-a-kind circus museum. You get to
play at one of the best playgrounds in town, and dine at your choice
of two restaurants – one casual and one more fancy. All of it is
housed on gorgeous, bayfront grounds filled with gardens, ponds,
enormous banyan trees and meandering, shaded pathways.
Below I’ve detailed what my daughters, ages seven and four, and
I would consider an ideal itinerary for a family day at the museum.
I’ve tried to list the stops in the order that makes the most sense
when walking with little ones (although there is tram service
throughout the property, which, for my girls is an attraction in itself).
The Tibbals Learning Center: The center houses the Howard
Bros. Circus Model, the world’s largest miniature circus. Boasting
more than 44,000-pieces, it depicts what a tented circus would
have looked like in the 1920’s, down to the setting up of tents to
the performers’ dressing room to the sideshows. My daughters
always run to find the tiny bicyclist, who fell off the tiny tightrope
and is being tended to by medics. Another set of rooms in
the center is filled with interactive, circus-themed exhibits that
kids love – including a “tightrope” they can try (don’t worry, it’s
perfectly safe), a miniscule clown car they can pile into, a cannon they can shoot and a how-to video about putting on clown
make-up they can watch. There’s so much to do here, it’s always
hard to get the girls to leave.
Original Circus Museum: What my girls like most in this building
is the Wisconsin, the nearly 80-foot-long private railcar that John
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and Mable Ringling used in their travels around the country. You
can get an up-close peek inside the windows at the luxurious
sleeping and dining cars.
Treviso Restaurant: For an extra special treat, we eat lunch at
the chic Treviso, with its open-air, shaded patio, offering picturesque views of the property’s lush grounds. It also has delicious
food (try the parmesan truffle fries). There’s also the Banyan Café,
located just across from the Circus Museum, which is a more
casual, counter-service option with family-friendly fare.
Mable’s Rose Garden: At 101 years old, this is Florida’s oldest
rose garden. Home to more than 1,200 roses, in every color
imaginable, the garden is laid out in a wagon-wheel design, with
a charming gazebo in the middle. This is where I always get my
best photos of the kids.
The David F. Bolger Playspace: This is such a unique playground, beautifully designed and aesthetically pleasing (what
you would expect for a museum of The Ringling’s caliber). My
girls’ favorites are the extremely tall, extremely fast metal slide
and the basket swings that they can ride on together.
The Secret Garden: My girls love this garden, I think partly because its name is so mysterious. It’s a pretty little garden, close
to the waterfront, and it’s adjacent to a small, private enclosure
where the Ringlings, as well as John’s sister, Ida Ringling North,
are buried.
Ca’ d’Zan: This stunning, 36,000-square-foot, five-story-tall mansion was the Ringling’s actual home and it’s ornate, inside and
out, to say the least. My daughters and I like walking through the
house, to see how one of our country’s richest couples lived. But
we equally enjoy relaxing on the marble bayfront terrace, trying
to catch glimpses of manatees or dolphins.
The Museum of Art: My daughters truly love art – both making it
and viewing it – so I don’t worry about them getting bored here.
Sure, I still worry about them touching stuff, but we always go
over the rules before we set foot in the door. We usually head
straight to their favorite works, one of which is a painting called
“The Sisters” by artist George Watson. In fact, my older daughter
has a print of the painting hanging in her room.
The Dwarf Garden: Before we leave The Ringling we always
stop here – there’s a circular path you can take around a thicket
of trees, and along the path are statues of dwarfs, some a bit
scary and some funny. You can also walk right into the thicket
and feel a little like you’re in a fairy tale yourself.
Kid-friendly Events at The Ringling
The Ringling property also houses the dramatically beautiful Historic Asolo Theater. Throughout the year, many family-friendly performances, including the Summer Circus Spectacular,
are staged here. Coming up is a first-time show for The Ringling called, “The Intergalactic
Nemesis Book One: Target Earth,” termed a live action graphic novel – a comic book brought
to life. The show, scheduled to run October 16-18 as part of the Ringling International Arts
Festival, is described as a “radio play meets comic book in a one-of-a-kind live show.”
According to The Ringling, it’s appropriate for kids about ages seven and up.
Also, The Ringling holds a monthly, free family story time in its art library. Called ROAR!
(stands for Ringling Order of Art Readers), the story time is for kids ages four to seven and
it includes an activity and snack afterwards. The time we went, the story was a beautifully
illustrated children’s book about the artist Hieronymus Bosch and the activity was making
monsters out of clay. You must register in advance.
Check out Ringling.org for more information.
Great Care with Convenience
Find us on
Facebook
$
25
school & sports
physicals
7 dayS a Week —no appointMent needed
4 Convenient LoCations
www.sarasotaurgentcare.net
 Bradenton
4647 Manatee ave. W.
Bradenton, Fl 34209
(941) 745-5999
 LakeWood ranch
9908 Sr 64 east
Bradenton, Fl 34212
(941) 747-8600
 SaraSota
6272 Lake osprey dr.
Sarasota, Fl 34240
(941) 907-2800
 SaraSota
1435 S. tamiami trail
Sarasota, Fl 34239
(941) 554-4301
Foundations for Dreams, Inc.
Dream Oaks Camp
Ages
7-17
life skills
horseback riding
canoeing
boating
YEAR ROUND
summer and weekend
camp sessions
RESPITE CARE
day and residential programs
for children with special needs
and chronic illnesses
sports & games
music & drama
art & MORE!
*Scholarships Available*
(941) 746-5659
www.foundationfordreams.org
76
77
WhereDreams Are Made..
Words: Bonnie L. Quick
The 15 wooded acres that make up Dream Oaks Camp in Manatee County is a setting
that encourages laughter and huge smiles. The children are so excited about the new
playground equipment that was put in place just a few months ago. Their joy is palpable.
At last, there is a playground designed for everyone! The goal of Dream Oaks camp
is to build self-confidence and provide socialization to children of all abilities without
restrictions. It is to teach daily living skills like tying shoes, and life skills such as how
to solve a problem and get along with others.
As revealed on the Foundation for Dreams, Dream Oaks website:
“The mission of Foundation for Dreams, Inc. is to offer an exceptional camping
experience for children with special needs and chronic illnesses ages 7-17. Our unique
programs focus on each child’s abilities, and are specifically designed to strengthen
their social skills, self-esteem and independence in a safe, barrier-free environment.”
Director of Development, Elena Cassella, explains, “Foundation for Dreams
is not just a summer camp. It also provides year round overnight family
camping and respite once a month. All parents need a recharge and kids
get the social stimulation they don’t often get in school. The whole family
gets something to look forward to.
“Dream Oaks Camp is unique, as we are the only camp in the Tampa Bay
Area providing year round residential and day sessions for children with
varying ability levels (both physical and developmental) and chronic/terminal
medical conditions including: (but not limited to) autism, spina-bifida, cerebral
palsy, developmental delays and cancer patients.
“I have always been an advocate for children and have a soft spot for those
with special needs or chronic illnesses. To be able to have the chance to come
to camp is a huge benefit for our children. Many come back year after year.”
All children have a right to be cared for, nurtured and nourished, physically, emotionally
and spiritually. More importantly, no one is turned away from camp. Every child is
precious and is seen as a member of a family. When the camper stays overnight it
gives the parent an opportunity to take a trip, relax and do things with other family
members. Everyone gets a short respite.
Among the program topics are: team building, arts and crafts, drum circles, horseback
riding, music and drama, swimming, canoeing, sports and many others.
78
Campers are from all over the state. Approximately 60% are local residents and 40%
come from the rest of Florida. Parents have to provide transportation. Campers change
each week. Some sign up for a couple of weeks at a time.
“We have a great set of well trained staff members. Our counselors sign up for eight
weeks in the summer,” says Executive Director Susanna Cripe.
“They have one whole week of training and seven full weeks of daily camping
experience. The ratio of camper to counselor is two to one with 26 as the average
number of campers. Counselors get to know each camper’s special needs and stress
interactivity. Each child is seen as an individual and helped to make connections and
develop skills.”
The Dream Oaks Camp program depends on community support and a strong Board
of Directors headed by President and Founder Eddie Mulock. Walter Miller serves as
Vice President, Jeb Mulock. 2nd Vice President, and Dom DiMaio is the Treasurer.
Other Board members include: Kirk Bell, Josh Beyer, Jim Brand, Jeff DeJongh, Amanda
Goodhue, Daniel Hager, Lamar Matthews, Joe Miller, Chris Nagle, Fran Padgett, Kara
Schiavone, Chris Smith and Joe Westendorf.
Dream Oaks raises funds through individual and corporate gifts, grants and special
fundraising events. All gifts make a difference, no matter how large or small. Cash
donations are often matched by an individual’s, or group's, employer.
“Fundraisers, in-kind donations (items we would have to buy if they were not
donated), annual appeals, workplace giving, and remembering us in your will
are just some of the ways you can support us!” added Cassella.
“Scholarships are also available for those needing financial assistance. No
one is turned away. About 92% of families need assistance scholarships
and regular fellowships.”
Dream Oaks weekends operate from 6pm Friday until 10am Sunday morning for 10
weekends during the school year. The campers stay for two nights and meals are
provided. All Children’s Hospital partners with Dream Oaks to provide an additional
four weekends for cancer patients and their families.
The Summer Day Camp runs from 8.30am to 4.30pm Monday through Friday, with
lunch provided. The Summer Residential Camp begins Monday at 8.30am and runs
to Friday at 3.00pm. All meals are provided.
Dream Oaks has also added a full week of camping during Spring Break.
79
Foundation For Dreams
Havana Good Time
Foundation for Dreams and Dream Oaks Camp Endless Summer Nights Party at IMG Golf Club.
For more information about Foundation for Dreams, Inc please contact Elena Cassella on 941-746-5659
Recipients of the 24th Annual Business & Education Partnership Awards
Solid Partnership
Event: The Manatee Chamber Foundation and School Board of Manatee County,
Business and Education Partnership Awards Breakfast. Freedom Village, Bradenton.
Jenn & Noah Morano
Tina Cablish & Chris Parsons
Kelly Hunt & Kara Schiavone
Scott & Jessica Godfrey, Katie Beyer-Capps & Stacy Capps
Jessica & Jason Coates
Bob and Vicki Bartz, Dennise Berger
Doug Wagner, John Chappie, Charles Clapsaddle
Dom DiMaio & Joe Westendorf
Susannah Cripe, Matt Caseman, and Elena & Pat Cassella
Melinda Waller, Katie O'Neal
Dave Potter, Jim and Dana Pounds, Allison Rolfe
Jahna Leinhauser, Carey Miller
Gina DellaVolpe and Valentina DellaVolpe
Angie Grasberger, Julie Aranibar
Bre & Jeb Mulock
Mike & Tricia Hunsader
Jennifer & J.J. Henthorne, Kati & Dick Halloy
80
Wendy Mungillo, Barbara Duke
Veronica Rogers, Rick Mills, Rae Dowling, Bob Bartz, Lynn Lineman
81
Packaging nutritious food to feed the hungry in our community and
around the world. Supplying food pantries, homeless shelters and
emergency relief. Your group can work together in this hands-on project.
D on at e or
Great fellowship for groups.
sc he du
2 5 ¢ /l
ur
Businesses - ChurChes - Community organizations ev en t lenoyo
mea
w!
www.kiwanisagainsthunger.com for more info
Sponsored by the Manatee Sunrise Kiwanis Club
Meetings: Thursdays, 7:15am
Norma Rae’s, 423 10th Avenue West. Palmetto
DO GOOD, FEEL GOOD - Are you looking for ways to connect
with others—and get involved in projects that change lives? Then
you’ve come to the right place. Kiwanis is all about making friends—
and making an impact—in your local community.
S
Join us for breakfast! c heilrdv inr egn tho e
f
our
Manatee Sunrise Kiwanis Club
c o m m u n it y
!
Thursdays, 7:15am
Norma Rae’s, 423 10th Avenue West. Palmetto
www.kiwanisagainsthunger.com
Manatee Diagnostic Center has
been awarded the ACR
Breast Imaging Center
of Excellence
You have
a choice...
C
IT
AC
RE
Y
ACR Accredited
D I T E D FA C I
L
Joint Commission Accreditation
Angus W. Graham, Jr., MD
Medical Director
www.manateediagnostic.com
Manatee Diagnostic Center Manatee Diagnostic Center Pointe West
Riverside Medical Center
Bradenton
James R. Chatham, MD
Assistant Medical Director
941-747-3034
Manatee Diagnostic Center
Parrish
Manatee Diagnostic Center
Arcadia
Skippy’s Hassle Free
BIRTHDAY
PARTIES!
Walk-In Play, Any Time!
Inflatable Party & Play Center
Sarasota Commons •935 N. Beneva Road, Suite 802 • Sarasota, FL 34232
VISIT US ONLINE AT:
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www.bouncedownunder.com
83
FALL
FOR THIS
CIDER
DRINK
how to make t p roll monster s
First, glue construction paper to the outside of a TP Roll to completely cover it. Cut
off any excess and let this dry.
TIP: I suggest gluing the construction paper on the rolls in advance before you start
the craft with your child.
For monster hair, roll the fuzzy sticks around a pencil until it forms a coil. You can also
make a fuzzy stick look like witches broom.
monster s and spider s
I
have to admit that Fall is my favorite time of year. The weather
starts to cool down a little here in Bradenton, the smell of
cinnamon and pumpkin is in the air, and I enjoy seeing the
kids dressed up in Halloween costumes.
From the construction paper cut out mouths, faces, teeth, witches hats, or anything you
could decorate the monsters with.
Set out these items along with glue and let your child/ children’s imagination soar!
Once all the parts are glued on, allow the monster to dry completely.
Tip: For a Mummy cut out strips of white paper, place the eyes on first, and glue on
the “bandages”.
This year we decided to take cardboard toilet paper rolls and
egg cartons and turn them into simple Halloween Decorations.
Let me just say, these creatures make for a fun family activity!
To recreate, all you need is:
2 – 64 oz bottles of Apple Juice
1/3 cup of light brown sugar
1/2 tsp of Cinnamon
1/2 tsp of All Spice
This enthusiasm carries over into my home, and I like to display
the spooky creatures, fun jack ‘o lanterns, and coloring sheets
that my kids make at school. As a family we also like to make
homemade crafts to display, and the best kind are those created
with items we already have on hand.
If you would like to recreate these projects, you will need the following:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Left-over cardboard from toilet
paper (TP) rolls or paper towels
Egg carton
Colorful construction paper
Wiggle eyes
Glue
Scissors
• Pipe cleaners AKA Fuzzy sticks
• Pencil
• Black permanent marker
(Looking for any of these supplies?
Check your local Dollar store, or craft
stores like Michael’s or Hobby Lobby.)
how to make egg car ton spider s
In advance cut out a 2 section part and color it with a black permanent marker.
Tip: The smell of the marker can be a little strong, so it is best for an adult to do this.
Next take 2 black fuzzy sticks and cut them into 10 parts. 8 should be 3 inches long
and 2 should be 1 inch long.
Give the parts along with Wiggle eyes to your child. They should take the 8 “legs”
and insert 4 of them into each side of the body. The remaining 2 are put on the front,
as the mouth.
Carlee Colonneso is a wife, and stay at home mother of 3. She is a graduate of the University of South Florida and author
of www.frugalandfunmom.com. Her website is a lifestyle blog that centers on family, crafts, recipes, and frugal living.
84
Looking for an easy Fall
Inspired Recipe to serve
during Halloween Festivities?
Check out my Slow Cooker
Apple Cider Recipe!
The legs and mouth should then be bent. Finally add the eyes with glue onto the face.
These are ready to be displayed immediately. Once the eyes are dried your kids will
have fun playing and pretending that the spiders are real.
Directions:
Put all of these ingredients into a
slow cooker or crock pot that is six
quarts or larger, and stir until combined. Put on high for 90 minutes
stirring occasionally. Then move to
the low setting for one hour stirring
occasionally. Then move to the
warm setting, stirring occasionally.
Leave it on the warm setting until
it is all gone or you are finished
entertaining, which ever comes
first. As you are serving be sure
to stir the mix since the spices
settle; there will be sediment in the
bottom of the cup as well. FYI, it
will be hot and if you are serving
it to little ones make sure you let it
cool a bit or add some ice cubes.
Serves over 14.
85
Kids in
The Kitchen
Recipes: Susan Miller Kelly
Corn Pudding
Prep: 10 min / Total: 50 min / Servings Total: 12
INGREDIENTS
•
•
•
•
•
•
1can (15-1/2 oz.) whole kernel corn, drained
1can (15 oz.) cream-style corn
1pkg. (8-1/2 oz.) corn muffin mix
1cup Sour Cream (low fat may be used)
¼ cup (1/2 stick) butter or margarine, melted
3 eggs
On The Book Shelf
Who am I?
Ride With Mater
Who Am I? is a delightful little book. Your child will love the
challenge of guessing the identity of the mysterious wild animal
peeking through the hole on
each page. The photographs
are colorful and fun. This book
is an entertaining look at some
familiar and not-so-familiar
animals in the wild and is
appropriate for children aged
infant to three years.
This Disney Pixar Cars book will be a favorite of young readers.
Mater tells the story of his adventure at the World Grand Prix with
his best friend Lightning McQueen. It is a virtual 3-D book that
uses your computer’s webcam and trigger cards to allow the
reader to bring the book to life on the computer screen. Using the
trigger cards provided with the book, the reader can virtually drive
around Mater’s home town
too! Children will love
the colorful illustrations
and will want to keep this
book in their collection,
especially those that have
seen the Cars movies!
(Birth to 3) • By DK Publishing
PREPARATION
Campbell's® Mini
Chicken Pot Pies
Prep: 20 min / Total: 50 min / Servings Total: 5
INGREDIENTS
•
•
•
•
•
•
1 1/2 cups cubed cooked chicken
1 can (10 3/4 ounces) Campbell’s® Condensed
Cream of Chicken Soup or Campbell’s® Condensed
98% Fat Free Cream of Chicken Soup
8 ounces frozen mixed vegetables (carrot, green
beans, corn, peas), thawed (about 1 1/2 cups)
2 tablespoons all purpose flour
1 package (12 ounces) refrigerated biscuit dough
(10 biscuits)
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
PREPARATION
•
•
•
Heat the oven to 350°F. Spray 10 (2 1/2-inch)
muffin-pan cups with vegetable cooking spray. Stir the chicken, soup and vegetables in a medium bowl.
Sprinkle the flour on the work surface. Roll or
pat the biscuits to flatten slightly. Press the
biscuits into the bottoms and up the sides of the
muffin-pan cups. Spoon about 1/3 cup chicken
mixture into each biscuit cup. Lightly press the
chicken mixture down so it's level. Top each
with about 2 teaspoons cheese.
Bake for 15 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown and the cheese is melted. Let the pot
pies cool in the pan on a wire rack for 5 minutes.
•Preheat oven to 375°F.
•Mix all ingredients together until well blended.
•Pour into a 13 x 9 inch baking dish sprayed with
cooking spray and bake for 35 to 40 mins or until
golden brown.
•OR: Pour into a 9-inch square baking dish sprayed
with cooking spray and bake at 375°F for 55 mins
to 1 hour or until golden brown.
JELL-O® 10 Minute
Thanksgiving Fruit Whip
Prep Time: 10 min / Total: 55 min
Servings Total: 10. 1/2 cup each.
INGREDIENTS
•
•
•
•
•
•
1-1/2 cups boiling water
1pkg. (8-serving size) or 2 pkg. (4-serving size
each) of your favorite flavor of JELL-O Orange,
raspberry, strawberry, etc.
Ice cubes
1cup cold orange juice or cranberry juice
1can (11 oz.) of your favorite drained canned
fruit, (Mandarin Oranges, Pineapple, fruit cocktail, etc.) drained
Whipped cream, optional
PREPARATION
•
•
Mix together and pour into individual ramekins,
small bowls, or glasses.
The mixture can also be poured into a mold or
large bowl. Cover and refrigerate until firm or
ready to serve. This recipe can be made the day
before. When ready to serve, top with a dollop or
more of whipped cream. In Partnership with the Junior League of Manatee County…Woman Building Better Communities
86
Review: Karen Holman
Afternoon on the Amazon
(4-6) • By Ellie O’Ryan
Review: Ellen McDonald
(7-9) • By Mary Pope Osborne
Excitement! Mystery! Adventure! These are but a few things
one can experience reading Afternoon on the Amazon. Jack,
Annie, and their treehouse pet Peanut, the field mouse, leave
the safety of their home in Frog Creek, Pennsylvania and are
magically transported to the Amazon by the books collected in
their treehouse by Morgan le Fay, a librarian dating from King
Arthur’s time. They must find four items to free Morgan. This trip
takes them to the Amazon where they encounter many obstacles
and creatures on their search. From
their treehouse landing 150 feet
in the air in rain forest canopy, to
grabbing a snake instead of a
vine, and dodging mama jaguar
after playing with her babies
that looked like giant kittens,
adventure and excitement
wait around each corner. This
story is fast-paced and full of
excitement moments.
Review: Pam Parmenter
The first 50 people to come into the lobby of the Early Learning
Coalition of Manatee County, 600 8th Avenue West, Suite 100,
Palmetto can pick up free copies of the books reviewed.
87
88
89
Out & About
October
October
Sunday
Candlelight Tour
Gamble Plantation
7:00 p.m-9:00 p.m.
941-723-4536
12
Monday
Discover Manatee
Historical Park
10:00 a.m. –noon, 1:00
p.m.-4:00 p.m.
Free admission
941-749-7165
13
Tuesday
14
Jumpin Fun Sports
2 for 1 Tuesdays
1-941-388-JUMP
Wednesday
Book Sale
South Manatee Branch
Library
9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
941-755-3892
15
Thursday
16
Main Street Live
Old Main Street, Bradenton
5:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.
Friday Saturday
17
Fun & Family Friendly Events...
Activities In Our Local Area
November
November
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
20
Free Citizenship Classes
Goldman & Loughlin
5:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
941-773-1523
Anna Maria Oyster Bar
Kids pay 1 penny per inch
Lee Roy Selmon’s
Kids Eat Free
One child meal per adult
paid meal
21
Book Sale
Library
9:00 a.m. –noon
941-755-3892
Taco Bell
Kids meal free with the
purchase of a combo
meal
3:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m.
Bob Evans
Kids eat free
4:00 p.m. to close
22
Discover Florida Maritime
Museum
9:00 a.m.-noon, 1:00 p.m.4:00 p.m.
Free Admission
941-708-6120
RJ Gatorrs
Kids meals $1.50
23
Storytime
Central Library
10:00 a.m.
941-748-5555
Forever Friends Fun Day
Bee Ridge Park, Sarasota
1:00 p.m.
Goblin Gathering
GT Bray Park, Bradenton
Admission $5.00 wristband
for activities, parents free
of charge
941-742-5923
Kids Club
Michael’s Crafts
Check your store location
10:00 a.m. -11:30 a.m.,
Admission $2.00 per child
Mexicali
One free kids meal with
adult meal purchased
Buffalo Wild Wings
Clark Road
½ price kids meal
2
Venice Art Festival
West Venice Avenue
10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
3
Music Monday
Central Library
6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
South Manatee Library
Financial Planning Series
1:00p.m.-2:30p.m.
4
25
Sarasota Pumpkin Festival
Payne Park
5:00p.m.-10:00 p.m.
Admission $10.00
ages 11 and up
941-706-7605
www.sarasotapumpkinfestival.com
Payne Park
Noon-10:00 p.m.
Admission $10.00
ages 11 and up
941-706-7605
Book Sale
Central Florida Library
First Floor
Boo Fest
Main Street Lakewood
Ranch
6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
St. Armand’s Art Festival
St. Armands Circle
10:00 a.m. -5:00 p.m.
9
10
First Home Buyer Course
1219 16th St West
Bradenton
4:30p.m.-9:00p.m.
Veterans Day Parade
Main Street Sarasota
10:00 a.m.
Sarasota Medieval Fair
Sarasota County Fairgrounds
16
Bradenton Farmers
Market
Old Main Street
9:00 a.m.-Noon
Sarasota Ski-A-Rees Ski
Show
1706 Ken Thompson
Parkway Sarasota
2:00 p.m. Free
Hunsaders Pumpkin Patch
www.huntsadersfarm.com
Music Monday
Central Library
748-5555
6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
27
Discover your outdoors
Take a walk and notice
the changes happening
around you in nature
28
Book Sale 9:00am-noon
755-3892
Discover Palmetto
Historical Park
10:00 a.m.-noon, 1:00
p.m.-4:00 p.m.
Free admission
941-723-4991
29
ENTER TO WIN!
Family Movie
Night
First 5 to send
email will win a
free one night
rental from Red
Box
Concert in the Grove,
Paisley Craze Band
Mixons Fruit Farm
6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
Admission $5.00 per
person
941-748-5829 ext. 280
30
Fright Night
St. Armand’s Circle
Free admission
6:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
5
Courthouse Concerts
11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Marie Selby Gardens Little
Sprouts Club
366-5731
11
Music Monday
Central Library
6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
17
18
Brickworld Tampa
Lego Expo
Florida State Fairgrounds
(317)572-5346
26
Mixon Harvest Festival
9:00 a.m. -5:00 p.m
31 Saturday
Once Upon A Story Time
Rocky Bluff Library
1
Home Depot Kids
Workshop Check your
stores for available spaces
Dragon Boat Festival
Nathan Benderson Park
Payne Park
Noon-10:00 p.m.
Admission $10.00
ages 11 and up
941-706-7605
Friday
Snooty’s Gala 2014
746-4131 ext 18
Ed’s Mainstreet
Car Show
Lakewood Ranch
24
Thursday
18
Night of Fish, Fun, Fright
Mote Marine
6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.
Hunsaders Pumpkin Patch
Admission $8.00 entry,
paid parking
9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m
19
Sarasota Bay Water
Festival
Ken Thompson Parkway
10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Pumpkin Toss
Lowry Park Zoo, Tampa
11:00 a.m.
Discover Florida Railway
Museum
941-776-0906
Wednesday
23
Visit your local
neighborhood park
www.mymantee.org/
home/...parksandrecreation.html
24
Book Sale
Noon-4:00 p.m.
Jumpin Fun
2 for Tuesdays
388-Jump
25
Central Library
Story Time 10:00 a.m.
All ages welcome
6
Central Library
STEM Program
10:30 a.m.-11:00 a.m.
Ages 3 and up
Movie in the Park
Sutton Park Palmetto
729-9177
13
12
7
Sugar Shootout Golf
Tournament
sugarshootout@yahoo.com
Benefits juvenile Diabetes
Reasearch Foundation
14
Siesta Key Crystal Classic
Sand Sculpting Competition
Siestakeycrystalclassic.com
Mixons Concert in the
Grove
748-5829 ext 280
Mixons Health Fair
748-5829
Create a what we are
thankful for table runner
Register for Free Trial
Play Away
755-1070
19
Main Street Live
Main Street Bradenton
5:00p.m.-10:00p.m.
20
8
Coquina Beach
Symphony on the Sand
4:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
Sarasota Medieval Fair
Sarasota County
Fairgrounds
10:00 a.m. -6:00 p.m.
Sarasota Fall Wellness Fair
468-7412
Mixons Concert in the
Grove
The Yesterdaze Band
748-5829
Coquina Beach
Sand Blast
9:00 a.m. -2:00 p.m.
21
Taste of Mixon
Mac and Cheese
Competition
748-5829
11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Downtown Bradenton
Farmers Market
9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
15
22
Mixon Harvest Festival
9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
748-5829
26
27
Busch Garden
Christmas Town opens
www.buschgardens.com
28
Light Up Siesta
Siesta Village Sarasota
29
30
Magic Kingdom
Mickey’s Very Merry
Christmas Party
3 years and under FREE
Check website for full
details
Send entries to: competitions@nextgenmagazine.org
* Denotes weekly event
Send entries to competitions@nextgenmagazine.org
Send entries to: competitions@nextgenmagazine.org
December
december
Sunday Monday
Discover the Gamble
Plantation
Ellenton, Florida
1
Tuesday Little Sprouts Club
Marie Selby Gardens
366-5731
10:30a.m.
2
Wednesday
3
Court House Concert
Series Manatee County
Court House
11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Thursday
Main StreetLakewood
Ranch Carriage Rides,
Carolers, Santa
6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
4
Friday
Saturday
5
Holiday Night of Lights
St. Armand Circle
6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
Palmetto Christmas in The
Park
Manateeclerk.com/historical/AGmuseum
6
Dream Oaks Camp
Christmas Party
11:00 a.m. -2:00 p.m.
www.foundationfordreams.org
Jingle and Jog 5K Run
Community Haven
355-8808
A Night Before Christmas
GT Bray Park
4:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
Santa will be present
Family Night at The
Museum
South Florida Museum
4:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m
746-4131
Sarasota Holiday Parade
Main Street Sarasota
7:00 p.m.
Sarasota Craft Festival
Robards Arena
10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Jungle Gardens
Holiday Lights
355-1112
6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
7
Free Citizenship Classes
Goldman & Loughlin
5:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
8
Book your seats for South
Florida Museum’s
Star of Bethlehem
Southfloridamuseum.org
9
10
Ranch Photos with Santa
The Cinemas
6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
Think + Drink (Science)
South Florida Museum
Adults Only
746-4131
* Denotes weekly event
Send entries to competitions@nextgenmagazine.org
Ranch Carriage Rides,
Carolers, Santa
6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
11
12
Winter Fest Art Festival
Holmes Beach
10:00 a.m.
13
Sarasota Christmas Boat
Parade City Island
6:00 p.m.
Sandy Claws Beach Run
Siesta Key Beach
8:00 a.m.
Holidays Around the
Ranch Main Street
Lakewood Ranch
6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
Science Saturday
Central Library
11:30 a.m.-12:30
a.m.Jungle Gardens
355-1112
Holiday Lights
6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
–
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Little Ready To Live Up To The
Large Lwr High Expectations…
Words: DREW WINCHESTER
C
raig Little feels the role of a great educator is about more
than just teaching math, science or English.
The role of an educator is to help people, to speak for those who
can't speak for themselves and to inspire those who have little
inspiration in their own lives.
As the new principal of Lakewood Ranch High School, the
38-year-old is tasked with not only keeping the A level school
on track as one of the most successful institutes in the entire
Manatee School District, but also continuing to be that source
of inspiration in the lives of his students, to be that person the
students know they can look to for guidance.
It's a challenge he's ready to tackle. And one that, in fact, he's
been tackling his entire career.
“We have a lot to live up to,” Little said. “There's excellence across
the board at this school.”
The New Jersey native originally envisioned a career in law enforcement, but it was while running cross country and playing
basketball at St. Leo University in Tampa that a long gestating
memory of a fourth grade teacher who inspired him as a child
helped change his career path entirely.
Now 15 years into his career in education, Little has taken the
helm of Lakewood Ranch High School, which boasts 2,300 students, the best FCAT scores of any school in Manatee County
and a student body where 93 percent of all kids on to college
or serve in the military.
From there, he
served as an
assistant principal at Johnson Middle School until
2010, and then moved into the role of assistant principal at
Lakewood Ranch.
The key in helping those kids, according to Little, is finding the
underlying issue in each of their lives.
The Five Star School award is a symbol of achievement presented each year by the Florida Department
of Education to those schools that have displayed exemplary community involvement in five specific areas:
Business Partnerships
Family Involvement
Volunteers
Student Community Service
School Advisory Councils
Abel Elementary, Principal James Horner
ardo
& 5th Grade Team Leader, Steven Lomb
Additionally, each school must
receive a school grade of “C” or
higher and provide a portfolio
documenting the achievement of
each criterion as the last determining
factor for award eligibility.
Gullett Elementary, Principal, Kathy McC
lean
The schools were recognized by
Superintendent, Rick Mills,
and School Board member,
Julie Aranibar.
Johnson Middle, Principal, Carl Auckerma
n
& Media Specialist, Kelly Van Serke
Braden River Elementary,
Assistant Principal Jennifer Grimes
Sometimes it could be problems they're having at home, problems in their classrooms, learning disabilities, or that they simply
need a different way of pursuing their education.
Little said that not all students are cut out for the “bricks and mortar” way of learning, and often it is about finding the right method
and opportunities that allow students to excel. It's also about
getting parents involved, as Little believes that a child's education needs to extend beyond the school and into their homes.
It's the success both on and off the field that makes Little so
very proud of his school and his students. As a former student
athlete, Little said he knows how difficult it can be to juggle both
efficiently.
As an “A school”, Little also knows he needs to continually
inspire and challenge his staff, as it would be easy to become
complacent due to their success.
“It's a gift you really have to give yourself,” Little said of that
motivation. “We teach them to make decisions because they're
the right decisions to make, and they are constantly taking
advantage of it.”
10 Manatee County schools earned recognition for achieving
FIVE STAR STATUS for the 2013/14 school year.
One of the things that Little is most proud of during his career is
working with what he calls “underdog kids”, or those kids who
need extra help in finding that special level of motivation that
Little hopes all Lakewood Ranch students can achieve.
Of course, the school also offers a host of fine arts classes,
advanced placement courses and 22 varsity sports, which was
named the best academic sports program in the state in 2013
by the Florida High School Athletic Association. They were also
named the third best athletic program in the state that same year.
He said the trick is building “intrinsic motivation” within the study
body by letting them know that taking pride and personal responsibility in themselves can help lead to great things.
94
Little was a physical education
teacher at Lakewood Ranch from
2 0 01 to 2 0 0 5,
then served as
assistant principal at Haile
Middle School
until 2007.
FIVE STAR STATUS!
Tillman Elementary, Assistant Principal, Mary Shapiro
Miller Elementary, Principal, Barry Dunn
es
Freedom Elementary, Principal, Jim Menn
But, in the end, he said you have to trust them to keep pushing
themselves. Just like they expect their students to push themselves and hold themselves accountable.
“We're in the business of helping people,” Little said. “At Lakewood Ranch you have the opportunity to get a great education,
but you also have the chance to be a great person.”
Marshall,
Gene Witt Elementary, Principal, David
& Clerical Assistant Lois Hopewell
Williams Elementary, Principal, Paul Hockenbury
& Assistant Principal, Debbie Cook
Southeast High, Assistant Principal, Rosa
Daughtry
& Attendance Secretary, Joyce Galla
I
magine your child’s delight if he or she were picked up from
school in a fire truck and given a half-day of royal treatment
by firefighters in uniform.
3rd and4th graders get to spray water from an actual fire hose and
5th graders are taught the proper way to use a fire extinguisher,
according to Fire Marshal Johnny Rigney.
The scenario may seem like the scene out of a storybook, but
one lucky Manatee County 5th grader will get special treatment
for the half-day preceding the Thanksgiving holiday weekend and
privileges for an entire year after being voted Honorary Fire Chief
for his or her efforts during Fire Prevention Week (October 5-11.)
Rigney said each 5th grader has the opportunity to create a fire
prevention project which is judged on a school level. The winning
projects are then transferred to the district fire office where staff
members vote on the one they like the best.
While that one singled out child will gain certain honors, thousands of other school children will receive pivotal knowledge
from the firefighters in uniform during the week, which could one
day save their lives.
During Fire Prevention week, local firefighters focus on teaching
elementary school children fire prevention techniques.
Members of the Fire Prevention Bureau, along with men and
women in the field, visit area elementary schools and teach them
necessary steps needed when dealing with fire.
The children learn what to do in the event of an emergency. They
learn to stop, drop and roll if their clothing ignites and they gain
an overall perspective of how to keep their homes safe.
Flyers are sent home to parents encouraging them to put together
a family plan to be executed in the event of a fire.
“One of the biggest mistakes people make is going back into
the house,” said North River Fire District Chief Mike Rampino.
Why a Fire Safety Plan
is so important for families
96
Every year Fire Prevention Week focuses on a theme. Rampino
said this year, firefighters are teaching fire alarm maintenance.
“A good rule of thumb is to change the batteries in your fire
alarms when you change your clocks for daylight savings. Twice
a year,” Rampino said.
FAMILY FIRE SAFETY
CHECKLIST
Electrical cords are in good condition (not
damaged).
•
The clothes dryer has a clean vent and filter (no lint
build-up)
Since 1922, Fire Prevention Week has been observed the week
in which October 9 falls.
•
Appliances and lights are plugged into separate
electrical outlets.
The date commemorates the anniversary of the Great Chicago
Fire, the tragic 1871 inferno that killed more than 250 people,
destroyed 17,400 buildings and left over 100, 000 residents
homeless.
•
A grown-up always stays in the kitchen whenever
food is cooking on the stovetop.
•
All smoke alarms work when tested by a grown-up.
•
All extension cords are used safely (not under
carpets or across walking areas).
•
Portable space heaters are 3 feet away from
anything that can burn.
•
All escape routes are clear of clutter and easily
accessible.
•
Curtains and other things that can burn are away
from the stovetop.
•
The furnace has been inspected in the past year.
•
Portable space heaters are off whenever a grownup leaves the room and goes to sleep.
•
The chimney has been inspected and cleaned in
the past year.
The disaster changed the way cities around the nation thought
about fire safety.
“The thing about most fires is they are preventable,” Rampino said.
“If people would use common sense when utilizing their candles,
stoves and electronic devices, they would be in good shape.”
Some 40 years after the City of Chicago was set ablaze, the
Fire Marshals Association of North America (now known as the
International Fire Marshals Association), started observing the
date by teaching the public about fire prevention.
In 1920, President Woodrow Wilson made it official, issuing the
first National Fire Prevention Day proclamation.
WORDS: Merab-Michal Favorite
PICTURES: Whitney Patton
“At the end of the year we honor them again at our banquet,”
said Rigney. “Then they receive a plaque.”
•
“With a plan in place, families know exactly what to do to get out
of their home and they designate a safe meeting place where
they can make sure all family members are accounted for.”
Know
The Dangers!
The student who creates the winning project becomes the
Honorary Fire Chief for an entire year. The student rides along
in fire trucks during parades and gets their picture hung up at
the fire station.
Two years later the day progressed into the course of a week.
Over the duration of Fire Prevention week, local firefighters donning full garb visit grades K thru 2nd in area schools and teach
the children the basics of fire safety.
• "Reproduced from NFPA's Fire Prevention Week website,
www.firepreventionweek.org. ©2014 NFPA."
97
AVAILABLE FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY!
NESTLÉ® NESQUIK®
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Two Delicious Flavors:
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98
(while supplies last)
Introducing the new
1-Year Florida University Plan Starting at $43/mo.
Florida Prepaid makes it easier than ever to start saving for college. Our new
1-Year Florida University Plan lets you purchase one year of school, eliminating
the pressure of having to buy all four years at once. With the 1-Year Florida
University Plan, NOW is the best time to start saving. Open Enrollment
is Oct. 15. – Feb. 28. The $50 application fee on new Prepaid Plans is waived
through the end of the year.
Let us help you get started at myf loridaprepaid.com.
FL OR IDA
PR E PA ID
Starting is Believing
Caring for our community’s kids
Pediatric Services from the Manatee Healthcare System
Nothing is more important to parents than knowing their children will receive
skilled medical care should an illness or accident occur. The Manatee Healthcare
System’s hospitals are dedicated to providing frontline treatment from experienced
pediatricians … as well as a healthy dose of warmth, comfort and compassion from
our exceptional nurses and staff.
When your child is a patient at Lakewood Ranch Medical Center or Manatee
Memorial Hospital, you’ll find committed professionals who are focused on helping
your precious little one get well and back home as quickly as possible.
8330 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard
Bradenton, FL 34202 | 941.782.2100
206 Second Street East
Bradenton, FL 34208 | 941.746.5111
www.lakewoodranchmedicalcenter.com
www.manateememorial.com
Follow us
Follow us
Physicians are on the medical staff of Manatee Healthcare System, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not
employees or agents of Manatee Healthcare System. The hospitals shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians.

Oct-Nov 2014 - ELC of Manatee County

Transcription

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