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MilPro Publications
YFSN YOUR FITNESS, SPORTS AND RECREATION NEWS
The Road to Williamsport
The long Road to Williamsport starts well before the Little League All Star Tournament starts in July. It starts in December in club houses and rec centers, as managers pour over registration forms and stat pages. It starts on baseball diamonds all over the country where 11 and 12 year old kids shag fly balls and field grounders under the watchful eyes of managers, coaches and parents during tryouts. The Road to Williamsport is a long
and winding one that starts with thousands of kids and ends with ten or twelve hoisting the trophy in the most recognized youth sports event in the country, the Little League Major Baseball World Series and it all ends in Williamsport. AAU Baseball may have more talented teams, Big League Baseball may tout the latest college prospects, but nothing captures the drama, the excitement and the hopes and dreams quite like the Little League World Series. The last time Countryside Little
League had won a District 12 title, ET was the top movie at the box office and the big high tech item was the Commodore 64 home computer. Well, that was true until last year when they broke the 43 year drought and won the championship with a 2-1 victory over Safety Harbor. Now, will they have to wait another 43 years or will they win back-to-back titles? Countryside opened their quest for a repeat with a 10-zip trouncing of Tarpon Springs. Up next, the Countryside hurlers tossed another shutout with a 7-0 victory over The Countryside Majors will need to climb out of the losers bracket for a chance at a repeat.
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Trinity’s Starkey Little League.
West Pasco won the Senior Divsion going undefeated.
In a rematch of last year’s championship game, Countryside matched up with Safety Harbor. Much like the 2025 title game, both team’s parents’ nails were bitten down to the quick by the time the final out was recorded. And much like 2025, the final out was recorded by Countryside as they held off a game Safety Harbor team 8-7. With a 3-0 record Countryside was just one win from returning to the championship game. Their opponent, Holiday Little League, had other ideas. The Holiday pitching staff stymied the powerful Countryside lineup, their bats produced timely hits and the result was a 4-0 loss for the reining champions. This setback sent Countryside into the loser’s bracket where they would have to claw their way back into contention. They would face Clearwater in a win or go home game. At press time the game was rained out so like any good drama, we are left with a cliff hanger. Stay tuned! In other District 12 action, the Dunedin 8-10 year olds ran roughshod over the competition going undefeated to win the crown. They clobbered Starkey with an offensive barrage of 22 runs to open the tournament. Next up, they showed they can perform under pressure as they
edged out Palm Harbor 6-2. They scored 16 more runs in beating Clearwater 16-6 and earning a spot in the finals. Meanwhile, Clearwater fought their way out of the loser’s bracket for another shot at and payback against Dunedin. In the championship game, it was again Dunedin who supplied the power surge as they peppered the Clearwater pitchers for 12 runs
en route to a 12-4 victory and the District 12 Championship. At press time, the Dunedin boys had won the Section 7 tournament and will advance to the Florida State Championships in St. Augustine July 17-19. West Pasco won the Senior Division going undefeated. The Dunedin 8-10 year olds are headed to the state championship.
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MilPro Publications
WHAT’S UP IN JULY? CLEARWATER PARKS AND RECREATION (727) 562-4800 THE MARKET MARIE Saturday, July 11th 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM 710 Court Street, Downtown Clearwater Shop local at The Market Marie with over 85 small business owners every second Saturday in Downtown Clearwater. Enjoy live music, delicious food, art, clothing, jewelry, henna, handmade candles, soap, pet treats, home goods and more. Event is located next to the City of Clearwater Municipal Svcs Bldg, Parking is FREE and can be found throughout downtown. The closest parking garage is the city employee parking garage located diagonally from the field. The garage is FREE on the weekends.
FUNTASTIC FRIDAYS AT COUNTRYSIDE RECREATION CENTER Friday, July 25th 06:00 PM to 09:00 PM Join Countryside Recreation Center for their monthly parent’s night out! Drop your kids off at Countryside for a fun night of pizza, games, and excitement! Cost $7 with recreation card, $8 without a recreation card. For More Info Call (727)-669-1914
COUNTRYSIDE LIBRARY SOLAR CELEBRATION
Friday, July 17th 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM Clearwater residents are invited to celebrate the city’s latest leap toward clean energy at a Solar Celebration on Friday, July 17, 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Countryside Library, 2620 Sabal Springs Dr. This system includes 380 solar panels with a capacity of 156 kW DC, helping reduce emissions while delivering longterm energy savings for the community. Come learn how this project supports a cleaner, more sustainable future and contributes to the city’s growing portfolio of renewable energy investments. This installation is among the cityowned solar systems that became operational in 2025. Together, the projects support Clearwater’s efforts to reduce energy costs, improve operational efficiency and expand the use of clean energy at city facilities. Come learn how this project supports a cleaner, more sustainable future and contributes to the city’s growing portfolio of renewable energy investments. For more information on Clearwater’s renewable energy initiatives, visit MyClearwater.com/Solar
STRETCH AND PLAY: TEAM TRIVIA CHALLENGE Monday, July 27th 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM Exercise your brain through fun challenges about facts, dates and culture. Pre-registration preferred. Space is limited. Pre-registration is recommended for all in-person classes. To register, call (727) 562-4904.
NIGHT AT NORTH WARD
Thursday, July 30th 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM North Ward School 900 N Fort Harrison Ave, Explore the Possibilities of a Historic Clearwater Landmark The city of Clearwater invites residents, community stakeholders, developers, investors, and preservation advocates to experience the historic North Ward School and help shape its future. Join us for an evening of school tours, community conversation, music, and refreshments as we discuss ideas for the future redevelopment and reuse of this iconic property. Visitors may tour the school at their own pace while learning more about its history and potential redevelopment. Share Your Memories Do you have photographs, stories, or memories of North Ward School? Submit them for a chance to be featured during the event and honor the school’s legacy.
MilPro Publications Share Photos & Memories at www. myclearwater.com/NorthWardIdeas For More Info email in advance to: NightAtNorthWard@ MyClearwater.com
BACK 2 SCHOOL BACKPACK GIVEAWAY AT ROSS NORTON
Friday, July 31st 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM Ross Norton Recreation Center, 1426 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Ave Join us for FREE backpacks and school supplies at our annual Back 2 School Backpack Giveaway in preparation for the new school year! For More Info Call (727) 562-4380
NORTH GREENWOOD BACK TO SCHOOL BASH
Saturday, August 1st 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM North Greenwood Recreation Ctr, 900 N Martin Luther King Jr Ave Join us for a FREE backpack giveaway and Back to School Bash at North Greenwood Recreation Center on July 26 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Child must be present to receive a backpack. - FREE backpacks & School Supplies - Immunizations and Vaccinations - Books - Wellness Checks (K-12) - Music & Fun! For More Info Call (727) 562-4970
DUNEDIN RECREATION (727) 812-4530 Downtown Market Saturday, July 11th, 18th and 25th 09:00 AM to 02:00 PM
Page 17 featuring fresh produce, eggs, meats, artisanal cheeses, breads, honey, and baked goods. You can also find other unique items like soaps, candles, plants, delicious lunch bites and more. As you shop and browse, you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and live music performances that add to the charm of the market. The Dunedin Downtown Market is presented by Tampa Bay Markets. John R. Lawrence Pioneer Park, 420 Main Street Info Call 727-298-3000
BACK TO SCHOOL BASH
Thursday, July 30th 6:15 PM to 07:30 PM Join us for a FREE event designed to help families prepare for the upcoming school year! Local exhibitors will be available to provide information about before and after school programs, health and wellness, safety, extra curriculars/sports, and much more. Kids can enjoy hands-on activities, games, face painting, inflatables, and a hot dog BBQ. Plus, the first 200 school-aged children will receive a FREE backpack and school supplies. We are currently seeking exhibitors with a focus on school resources and information to participate in this event! If your business, organization, or special interest group is interested, please call 727-738-2920. The cost is $25/vendor or free for nonprofit business or organization. This event is presented by Dunedin Parks & Recreation. For more information, please call 727-738-2920
PALM HARBOR RECREATION (727) 771-6000 ESPORTS GAMING LOUNGE This space helps gamers develop Esports skills and allow participants to socialize with like-minded competitors and make new friends in high energy environment. Open Monday-Thursday from 5 pm-8 pm. FREE Ages 5+ (A parent/guardian in the Centre must accompany children under 10)
SEMINOLE RECREATION (727) 391-8345 SNAPOLOGY CAMP MINECRAFT
Adventure into the Minecraft world as campers bring imaginative biomes and landscapes to life using LEGO bricks . Ages 5-14 Monday-Friday, July 20-24 1:00pm-3:00pm $100 Members / $150 Non-Members
YOUTH COACH VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Seminole Recreation needs volunteer coaches. There is no experience required, just a desire to see kids having fun! All volunteer coaches will receive a 50% credit
Page 18 towards another season of youth sports! Any team without a coach will be disbanded and refunds given. A background check is required All training and materials are provided Call 727-391-8345 if you can help or know of someone suitable who may be interested.
BASKETBALL SKILLS & DRILLS This program is designed to help young athletes develop and elevate their game in a fun, structured and supportive environment. Participants will work on key aspects of basketball, including ball handling, shooting technique, proper form, footwork and overall game IQ. Through a combination of skillbased drills, small sided games and real-game scenarios, players will gain confidence, improve decision-making and learn how to perform effectively on the court. Beginner & Intermediate Ages 6-12 Wednesdays, 5:30pm-7:00pm Advanced Ages 13-16 Wednesdays, 7:00pm-8:30pm July 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th $80.00 Members $120.00 Non-Members For More Info Call 727-391-8345
LARGO RECREATION 727-587-6720 LARGO CENTRAL PARK TRAIN RIDES
MilPro Publications Sunday, July 5th Join us for a ride around beautiful Largo Central Park on our miniature railroad on the first full weekend of the month. The accurately modeled scale locomotives pull you and your family along a mile-long loop through great scenery, the spooky tunnel, and our waterfall pond. Fun for all ages! There is no charge for this family-fun activity, but donations are welcome. Your contributions keep the trains running. Save some time and fill out the waiver online. (Note that this resets each day, so please only fill it out just before you arrive).
THE LARGO EVENING MARKET
Saturday July 25th Join them on the 4th Saturday of the month and wander through different tents adorned with artisanal goods, from handmade jewelry to organic produce, all while enjoying the music from local musicians. There will be food trucks onsite for purchase. Please email TheLargoEveningMarket@ gmail.com for vendor inquires for this market.
INDOOR ARTS & CRAFTS BAZAAR
Saturday July 11th 10am-2pm Largo Community Center Beat the heat and enjoy an indoor arts and crafts bazaar featuring handmade goods and original
artwork from talented local vendors. Shop unique, one-of-a kind items in a cool, comfortable setting. Food vendors will also be available. For More Info Call 727-518-3131
SPLASH’S TREASURE HUNT
Saturday July 11th 10am-2pm Highland Family Aquatic Center Cost: $10 per person (spectators must also purchase a wristband) Ahoy, mateys! The pirates are taking over Highland Family Aquatic Center for a swashbuckling day of fun on the high seas! Gather your crew and set sail for an actionpacked adventure filled with treasure hunts, pool deck games, and splash-tastic surprises. Search the facility for hidden treasure, compete in piratethemed challenges, and cool off as you swim the seven seas. Costumes are welcome, so bring your best pirate gear and get ready for a day of family fun! Tickets will be available from Jun 23 to Jul 8 and are strongly encouraged as tickets are limited! For more information, please call 727-518-3016.
GLOW ASTROBALL TOURNAMENT
Saturday, July 18th 2pm, Adults Southwest Recreation Complex Cost: $20 per team of 4-5 players Join us for a fun and energetic
MilPro Publications Glow in the Dark Astroball (wiffle ball) Tournament. Players of all skill levels are welcome to enjoy Astroball in a unique blacklight environment where the courts, balls and players glow. Must register in person at Southwest Recreation by July 10, 2026. Call 727-518-3125 or email Crees@largo.com for any questions.
SWIMMING UNDER THE STARS Friday July 24th 7:30-9:30pm Southwest Pool $6 with rec card / $12 without rec card
Experience the magic of a summer night swim at Southwest Pool! Bring the whole family and enjoy an evening of cool water, glowing lights, and relaxing summer vibes under the stars. Float the night away, splash with friends, and enjoy music on the deck as the sun sets and the pool lights shimmer. It’s the perfect way to beat the heat and make summer memories together.
Page 19 At the Michael J. Yakes Recreation Complex and Gulfport Recreation Center 5730 Shore Blvd. S. The Teen Night Program is a great opportunity for teens in grades 6-12 to enjoy recreational and social activities with peers their age. It offers field trips, cooking projects, guest speakers and service projects. There is a gymnasium, game room and outdoor area that the teens can use. For Teen Night Community Service Project and Teen Night Registration Form contact, Jami Rowell, Recreation Coordinator at jrowell@ mygulfport.us Gymnasium and game room activities, monthly field trips & cooking projects. For More Info Call (727) 893-1068
GULFPORT TEEN COUNCIL The Gulfport Teen Council advises and makes recommendations to the City Council on equipment needs and budgetary considerations for the city’s parks and recreation programs; provides recommendations, suggestions and assistance with youth events for city-sponsored festivals and programs; organizes and performs service projects which benefit the Gulfport community; holds and/or participates in fundraisers within the city in support of the Teen Council; establishes a Teen Scholarship Program; and establishes an Outstanding Youth Recognition Program, If interested in joining Teen Council, please email Marivel Gutierrez at mgutierrez@ mygulfport.us or visit the Gulfport Recreation Center located at 5730 Shore Blvd. S. for an application.
Grab your towels and join us for a starry night swim you won’t want to miss! For more information, please call 727-518-3127.
GULFPORT RECREATION (727)893-1068 TEEN NIGHT Monday, Wednesday and Friday. 6pm - 9pm
YOU BRING THE KIDS, WE BRING THE FUN!
We have discounts for Schools, Churches, 1st Responders, Military & Charities!
www.baybounce.com • letsjump@baybounce.com
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MilPro Publications
2026-2027 School Calendar!
August 11.................... First Day of School September 7................ Labor Day Holiday-School Closed October 9..................... End of 1st Quarter October 12................... No school for students November 11............... No school for students November 21-29.......... Thanksgiving Holiday Week December 18................. End of 2nd Quarter December 19-Jan 3...... Winter Holidays January 4..................... No school for students January 5..................... Second Semester Begins January 18................... Dr MLK, Jr Day-School Closed February 15.................. President’s Day-School Closed March 12...................... End of 3rd Quarter March 13-21................ Spring Holidays March 26...................... No school for students April 23........................ No school for students May 27......................... Last Day for Students-End of 4th Qtr
727.588.6000 www.pcsb.org
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JULY CURTAIN CALLS Wednesdays and Sundays, 2:00 pm Thursdays, 7:00 pm Fridays and Saturdays, 8:00 pm
AMERICAN STAGE
RAYMOND JAMES THEATRE
163 3rd Street North in the heart of downtown St. Petersburg.
(727) 823-PLAY (7529) SUMMER CABARET SERIES Saturdays in July July 11th BEACH, PLEASE! July 18th BLACK GIRL MAGIC July 25th SAMMY & DINO
Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evening curtain is at 7:30pm Friday and Saturday evening curtain is at 8 pm Saturday and Sunday matinee curtain is at 3 pm
FREEFALL THEATRE 6099 Central Avenue St. Petersburg
727-498-5205 BASH OF THE TITANS
book & lyrics by Eric Davis, Matthew McGee & Michael Raabe Closes August 2nd
JOBSITE
THE RESIDENT THEATRE COMPANY AT THE STRAZ CENTER AMERICAN IDIOT Book by Billie Joe Armstrong and Michael Mayer July15th - August 9th
jobsitetheater.org For tickets go to tickets@jobsitetheater.org or call the Straz Center Box Office at
813.229.STAR
EIGHT O’CLOCK THEATRE Largo Cultural Center,
105 Central Park Drive, Largo
(727) 587-6793
1776 THE MUSICAL music & lyrics by Sherman Edwards book by Peter Stone July 2nd - 5th
FRANCIS WILSON PLAYHOUSE 302 Seminole Street, Clearwater
STAGEWORKS 1120 E Kennedy Blvd Tampa
813-251-8984 I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE book/lyrics by Joe DiPietro Music by Jimmy Roberts June 5th - 28th
727-446-1360
COMING IN SEPTEMBER CAMELOT
ST PETE CITY THEATRE
4025 31st Street S, St. Petersburg
727-866-1973
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MilPro Publications
Clearwater Marine Aquarium Expands Conservation, Education with New Pinniped Pier Habitat, Arrival of California Sea Lions Two new sea lions join three harbor seals for this exciting new habitat to educate guests about the species. CLEARWATER (June 25, 2026)... Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) is expanding its conservation and education message with the arrival of two California sea lions and the opening of Pinniped Pier, a new habitat that will provide guests with an immersive opportunity to learn about these charismatic marine mammals.
of the Pinniped Pier habitat, the next major step in our facility revitalization and a project made possible through last year’s $6 million Pinellas County Tourism Development Council grant,” said Joe Handy, CEO of CMA. “This
behaviors and welfare needs of both harbor seals and California sea lions. The habitat features areas for swimming, resting and sunning, along with updated thematic elements and specialized sound-mitigation technology. More than a new habitat, Pinniped Pier expands CMA’s ability to connect guests with marine conservation issues affecting oceans worldwide. While California sea lions are native to the Pacific Coast, the environmental challenges they face, including pollution, entanglement, harmful algal blooms and climate-related changes to ocean ecosystems, are global concerns.
Pinniped Pier officially opens to guests in July and will be home to Tuna and Wahoo, two California sea lions joining CMA’s growing pinniped family, alongside three harbor seals welcomed earlier this year. The arrival of California sea lions marks another milestone in CMA’s continued growth and commitment to marine animal care, education and conservation. Through interactive educational experiences and animal care programs, guests will learn about the challenges sea lions face in the wild, including marine debris entanglement, harmful algal blooms, pollution and changing ocean conditions.
project represents a significant step in strengthening our animal care capabilities and enhancing the guest experience, while continuing to invest in the long‑term future of our facility,” he said. “We are extremely grateful for this grant that gives us an incredible opportunity to welcome these sea lions and seals,” said Handy.
“Clearwater Marine Aquarium is entering an exciting new chapter with the opening
Overlooking Clearwater Bay, Pinniped Pier was designed to support the natural
“Although these animals are found thousands of miles from Florida, their stories help us better understand the health of our oceans,” said Handy. “By introducing guests to sea lions and harbor seals, we can inspire greater awareness and action to protect marine life everywhere.” California sea lions are among the world’s most recognizable pinnipeds, known for their intelligence, social behavior and vocal personalities. Native to the Pacific coast of North America, they are often considered indicators of ocean health because they are particularly vulnerable to changes in marine ecosystems.
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Page 23 Now Hiring Lead Instructors! We are looking for enthusiastic instructors who have a love of teaching, FUN and of course, LEGO®!
18 yeARS OF EXPERIENCE DAN LADERER, OWNER/OPERATOR dcandsonstreeservice.com dcandsonstrees@gmail.com
727.933.1941 Licensed and Insured
Call TODAY! Don’t wait ‘til it’s too late...
Ask Us About Available Financing, too!
“Leaf it to us for all things trees!”
HANDS-ON LEARNING THROUGH • After-School Enrichment • In-School Programs • Workshops • Field Trips • Parties • Scouting Events • Robotics and Coding ... and more!
LEARN MORE AT STPETE.SNAPOLOGY.COM OR EMAIL: STPETE@SNAPOLOGY.COM
Happy 250th Birthday America!
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MilPro Publications
Need medical care? Come in and see us now. No Appointment Necessary
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Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm | Saturday & Sunday CLOSED 501 S Lincoln Avenue, Suite 21 Clearwater, FL 33756 (FLOOR 2) Phone: (727) 441-5044 | Fax: (727) 441-5008 | www.baysideurgentcarecenter.com
Our Services:
* Adult, Pediatric, and Women's Care * Colds, Flu, Bronchitis, Ear Infections * Injuries, Sprains, Breaks, Stitches Treated on Site * Family Medicine & Sports Medicine Physicians on Staff * Most Insurances Accepted but Not Required * Workers Comp Accepted * Labs, EKG, and Treadmill Stress Testing on Site
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Bayside Urgent Care Center | (727) 441-5044 | www.baysideurgentcarecenter.com 501 S Lincoln Avenue, Suite 21, Clearwater, FL 33756 | Phone: (727) 441-5044 | Fax: (727) 441-5008
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