Back in Time: A Day Trip to Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island is only 55 miles from downtown Tampa, but it feels like a world away. Maggie Rodriguez takes you on a tour for a perfect day trip.
Laura Byrne
Laura Byrne is an award-winning journalist whose 15+ years in Florida newsrooms have shaped her into a trusted voice for Tampa Bay families. As Creative Director and Managing Editor of Tampa Bay Parenting and Orlando Parenting she leads a team dedicated to delivering expert-backed, locally relevant content for parents and families across the Tampa Bay area. With a career spanning television and print journalism, Laura blends professional expertise with her personal journey as a mom to two boys, offering practical insights that resonate with busy caregivers.Laura earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication at Florida State University. She launched her career in 2002 as a reporter at SNN Local News 6 in Sarasota, followed by stints at WCTV in Tallahassee (2002-2007), WINK News in Fort Myers (2007-2009), and WTSP-TV in Tampa Bay (2009-2013). Over 25 years, she covered politics, crime, and breaking news, earning accolades for her sharp reporting and on-air presence.Since joining the magazine Laura has transformed Tampa Bay Parenting into an award-winning publication, doubling its revenue and creating timely, relevant local content for local parents, while earning multiple Florida Magazine Association Charlie Awards for excellence in journalism.Laura also served on the Hillsborough County Anti-Bullying Advisory Committee, the Juvenile Justice Advisory Board for Circuit 13, and as a board member of Leadership Hillsborough (Class of 2021-2022). A sustainer of The Junior League of Tampa, Laura’s civic engagement underscores her dedication to the Tampa Bay area.Laura’s insights reach beyond Tampa Bay Parenting. She’s been featured in outlets like WFLA, Tampa Bay Times, and The KNOW Women, sharing expertise on parenting and media.
Articles by Laura Byrne
Busch Gardens Offers FREE Admission to Active Duty Military and Veterans
Through June 27, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is offering free admission for U.S. military veterans and their families.
- Beaches + Waterparks + Splashpads | Beach | Outdoors | St. Pete | Summer Break Fun | Things to Do | Travel
A Picture Perfect Day at the #1 Beach in America: St Pete Beach
We’re sharing top picks of things to do in St. Pete Beach so you can plan your next trip to the number one beach in the United States!
Writing a New Chapter with Maggie Rodriguez
Maggie Rodriguez, a monthly contributor to our magazine, has forged a new, more flexible career path as the co-host of Daytime on WFLA.
For the Love of Earth and Family: LUFKA Refillables Zero Waste Store in Tampa
Meet Kelly Hawaii and her husband Parosh, launched their business Lufka Refillables Zero Waste Store right here in Tampa!
Mermaids in Tampa Bay. Yes, it’s TRUE! They Live in Weeki Wachee Springs
Learn more about the history and magic of mermaids at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park.
St. Joseph’s Hospital-South opens new NICU to care for the tiniest patients
The new Level II NICU at St. Joseph’s Hospital-South provides specialized around-the-clock care 24 hours a day, seven days a week for newborns and their mothers.
Heavy Metals in Baby Food: Expert info on what you need to know
Dr. Rachel Dawkins, a pediatrician at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital shares the need to knows about heavy metals in baby food.
Everything you need to know about The Super Bowl Experience Presented by Lowe’s
The Riverwalk takes center stage for pre-game events to get the community and our visitors a chance to step inside the Super Bowl Experience.
Our Favorite Kid-Friendly Spots to Social Distance in Tampa Bay
Life during a pademic has us all seeking a little bit more space! We’re sharing some of our favorite social distancing friendly places in Tampa Bay!
LEGOLAND Florida offering FREE Preschooler Pass, too!
Busch Gardens + Adventure Island just announced their FREE Preschool Card for little ones, and now LEGOLAND Florida has one too!
Season of Giving: 10 Ways Your Family Can Give Back in Tampa Bay
We’re sharing different ways your family can give back in Tampa Bay whether it’s by volunteering your time or supporting a local non-profit.
The Junior Buccaneers Cheerleading Program is Going Virtual in 2020!
If your little one loves to cheer and dance, the Junior Tampa Bay Buccaneers Cheerleading program might be a perfect match for them!
Focus, Faith and Family with Fox & Friends co-host Ainsley Earhardt
Fox & Friends co-host Ainsley Earhardt is heading to Tampa Bay with many of her other Fox News Channel hosts for the inaguaral Patriot Awards. She’s sharing more about motherhood, faith and focus at work.
Keep the Kids Busy with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers During Quarantine!
You and the kids can get moving and get coloring with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during your self-quarantine! Check out these FREE printables and videos!
Van Gogh Alive at The Dali extended through June!
Van Gogh Alive at The Dali is an immersive, multi-sensory art exhibit like you’ve never experienced before! We’re sharing what to expect.
Sign Up for Kindergarten this month with Hillsborough County Schools
If you have a rising kindergartner, this is the time to register! Hillsborough County elementary schools are hosting Ready for Kindergarten events this month.
Yes, you CAN ride…or rent…a real Pirate Ship in Tampa
A real pirate ship is invading Downtown Tampa and it’s here to stay! Meet the Lost Pearl, the newest addition to the Pirate Water Taxi fleet.
Local Mom, Delilah Dawson, Pens New Novel Based on Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
We’re introducing you to local mom of two, Delilah Dawson, an acclaimed author who not only wrote a novel based on Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge, but also created a character you can meet at the park!
