Osprey Observer Bloomingdale/FishHawk March 2023

BLOOMINGDALE’S BAND DIRECTOR PROMOTED TO SUPERVISOR OF SECONDARY MUSIC FOR HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY SCHOOLS

Jon Sever, Bloomingdale High School’s music department head and band director for the last 19 years, is leaving Bloomingdale for a position with the Hillsborough County School District.

Sever will be supervising all of the music in Hillsborough County for grades six through 12 as the supervisor of secondary music for Hillsborough County schools.

Sever announced his departure at the school on February 9, calling all current band and guard members to the auditorium to share his promotion. Understandably, his announcement was met with mixed emotions — lots of tears and gratefulness.

Bloomingdale Principal Dr. Marcos Rodriguez said Sever is an incredible band director for many reasons.

“He takes the time to get to know his students and families, which allows him to create long-lasting relationships with anyone in the program. His passion and love for music are infectious,” Dr. Rodriguez said.

Passion is what led Sever to become a high school music director.

“I always ask the kids what their relationship is with music. It is very much like a relationship with a human being. Are you friends? Are you more than friends? Do you use music? Are you deeply committed? My relationship with music is a deep commitment,” Sever said.

His commitment developed early in his life. He says he struggled in high school and music saved him. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in music and master’s in music education from Florida State University.

By Jane Owen

“I know what I wanted to do in college, and to be honest, if I couldn’t find a high school job, I wasn’t just going to take a job because my heart wasn’t going to be in it,” Sever said.

Passion and dedication are cornerstones for Bloomingdale High School’s band. The Bloomingdale High School Rajun’ Bull Band has had straight ‘Superior’ ratings at Marching Band Music Performance Assessments (MPAs) since the school opened in 1987.

Ted Hope was the first band director at the school. He left Bloomingdale after 17 years to take the position of supervisor of secondary music for Hillsborough County schools — the very position that Sever is taking after being the Bloomingdale’s band director for 19 years.

“Jon was hired at Bloomingdale High School because we shared similar philosophies. Kids always came first, and eventually everything else lines up accordingly,” Hope said.

If asked what he will miss most after taking his new position, there is no hesitation from Sever: “The kids, 100 percent.”

Sue Burkett, Hillsborough County chief of schools and Bloomingdale principal from 2013-20, said Sever “gets it.” He gets kids and the structure needed to lead within music education.

“There is no way that Bloomingdale can absorb the impact of Jon Sever in that building and with the band. The good thing is, he will still be working with music education for the district, and I highly doubt he will allow his successor to be anything but superior,” Burkett said.

NEWSOME STUDENTS RAISE FUNDS AND AWARENESS AS VISIONARIES FOR LEUKEMIA AND LYMPHOMA SOCIETY

Newsome High School sophomores James LaBarbera and Henry Sprinkle know the value of teamwork on and of the ice. The two Newsome hockey players are leading a team to raise money to help find a cure for blood cancers.

Their team, the CUREsaders, is made up of nine fellow classmates and is part of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) Student Visionaries of the Year program, which is a seven-week philanthropic leadership development program for students.

Their team’s goal is to raise $25,000.

LaBarbera and Sprinkle were inspired to lead this year’s team after seeing the impact their hockey teammates, Nick Ball and Aiden Byrnes, made with the program last year. They are passionate about their efforts because of people sufering from cancer.

“When I was asked to be a participant my freshman year, I realized that many people I knew were either afected or knew someone afected by this terrible disease, and I wanted to do all I could to help find a cure,” Sprinkle said.

LaBarbera and Sprinkle chose the Patient Support pillar of LLS’s mission to fundraise under because they both have had people close to them who have had cancer.

“I want to better the lives of the people sufering from blood cancers. People shouldn’t have to live with this illness affecting their lives every day, so I want to be a part of helping them be better,” LaBarbera said.

The hours LaBarbera and Sprinkle spend fundraising with their team will make a

By Jane Owen

tremendous diference to those living with or in remission from a blood cancer. Their work as leaders planning, organizing and marketing the campaign is also developing them as individuals.

“This fundraising event has taught me leadership skills, accountability and responsibility. My partner and I must lead a team we picked to raise money for LLS, and any problems they have, or if they aren’t raising money, is my responsibility. I also must raise money myself to prove that I am an accountable leader for my team,” LaBarbera said.

CUREsaders teammates include LaBarbera, co-leader; Sprinkle, co-leader; Alexandra Ball; Brady Combs; Christopher Iannicelli; Emma LaBarbera; Ethan Weitz; Jacob Santarlas; Peter Shaw; and Ryan Eichler.

The team’s Grand Finale Celebration will be held on Friday, March 10. Donations can be made through June.

To learn more about the CUREsader team or to donate, visit https://events. lls.org/sun/svoysuncoast23/tcuresader. Information about the national LLS campaign can be found at www.llsstudentvisionaries.org/.

IN THIS ISSUE:

CRAWFISH FEST PG 3

MOTORING TAMPA BAY PG 5

TECO SOLAR PG 8

EYE ON BUSINESS PGS 25-26

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE SEC 3

Newsome Sophomore James LaBarbera

Newsome Sophomore Henry Sprinkle

All Under One Roof

CHILL CAWFEE TO HOST WOMEN-OWNED POP-UP MARKET

Chill Cawfee is hosting a popup market for 30 women-owned businesses on Sunday, March 26 to highlight locally owned businesses.

The registered vendors will set up on Chill Cawfee’s back patio under grandfather oak trees from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. There will be a few food vendors as well, so marketing and brand advisor Thomas Quigley encourages attendees to come hungry.

Chill Cawfee’s pop-up market will feature 30 women-owned businesses on Sunday, March 26.

“[The pop-up markets] were a great way to bring the community together, and really that’s what we wanted when we opened our cofee shop. We wanted to be a place where the community could get together over a cup of cofee,” said Quigley.

This is the third year Chill Cawfee has hosted pop-up markets, but it has a history of markets and fairs to bring awareness to other locally owned companies. Before the coronavirus, the company hosted the Valrico Artisan Faire but has since turned the fair into a quarterly event.

The pop-up markets have ranged from art walks to pet vendors, but this time Chill Cawfee wanted to feature fellow women-owned businesses.

“We are a women-owned business. Lisa [Quigley] is basically our owner. This is her business, and she wanted us to support

By Lily Belcher

other women she knew in the area. She started talking about it, and a few of our customers had suggested it,” said Quigley.

With all the vendor spots filled, Quigley expects 200-300 customers to come by on the last Sunday of March. In addition to supporting locally owned businesses, the pop-up market gives attendees the opportunity to meet their neighbors and make connections in their communities. Quigley said the opportunity to meet new people is the most rewarding part of hosting the markets.

“On a Sunday, when they’re out for something like this, everyone is out just to enjoy the day. So, you kind of feel that energy when we do the markets, which is nice,” said Quigley.

Due to the large number of expected customers, Quigley suggests people park at the Walgreens or Bank of America nearby to leave room in Chill Cawfee’s parking lot for those who cannot walk the extra distance.

The pop-up market will take place at Chill Cawfee’s Valrico location of Lithia Pinecrest Road and Bloomingdale Avenue on Sunday, March 26 at 9 a.m. For more information on the event, visit Chill Cawfee’s Facebook page @chillcawfee or https://chillcawfee.com/ events/.

ROTARY CLUB OF FISHHAWKRIVERVIEW HOLDS 13TH ANNUAL CRAWFISH & CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL Staf

The Rotary Club of FishHawk-Riverview is hosting its 13th annual Crawfish Festival at Founders Square Park at Winthrop Town Centre on Saturday, April 22 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. All information available at www.luvcrawfish.com.

This event is sure to be the largest yet, with live music, free games and activities for children, and over 50 vendors. The event will feature a live performance by More is More a band with the right mix of talent, humor and a huge repertoire.

There will be lots of fun, free games and various activities for children.

All proceeds will benefit the Rotary Club Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charity, to fund and support local, national and international charities and activities.

“We welcome applications for vendor space and sponsorships,” said Christine Ans, longtime event vol-

unteer and rotarian. Vendor and sponsorship info available at www.luvcrawfish. com.

Crawfish tickets are $20 per person until March 15th and include crawfish, potatoes and corn. After March 15th, price increase to $25. A family pack of two dinners, two hot dogs or hamburgers, and four drinks is $50. Tickets available at www.luvcrawfish.com.

The Rotary Club of FishHawk-Riverview has been involved in numerous service projects, including college scholarship programs, Student Dictionary Distribution, Rotary’s Camp Florida, Reading Is Fundamental, Project C.U.R.E., PolioPlus, and The Rotary Foundation.

For more information, including food pricing and pickup information, visit www. luvcrawfish.com. Don’t miss out on the best crawfish boil in town!

nitishrele@gmail.com

‘BABY BENZ’ C300 AN EXCELLENT, MUCH-REVERED SEDAN

Its origin goes way back to 1982. Back then, the Benz 190 was labeled as ‘Baby Benz.’ Over a decade later, the ‘kid’ earned the C-class designation and worldwide sales of more than 10.5 million units, with China holding the lead for the past six years. The rest, as they so lovingly say, is history.

C300 4MATIC

Tires: 225/45R18 front; 245/40R18 rear

Wheelbase: 112.8 inches

Length: 187 inches

But Mercedes engineers have not just kept up with history, but they’ve also taken a step ahead by redesigning the C300 for 2022 inside and out. Under the hood of the steel unibody structure still resides a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder turbo engine putting out 255 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 295 pounds-feet of torque at 3,200 rpm. An integrated starter-generator with a 48-volt capacity provides mild hybrid power delivery of an extra 20 hp. Zero to 60 is possible in just six seconds with a top speed of 130 mph in this fine, snug and efective ride. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive vehicle is mated to a standard nine-speed automatic, which can be driven in eco, comfort, sport, sport+ and individual modes. The independent four-link axle front and multilink rear suspension works splendidly to absorb unpleasant highway bumps and sudden sharp turns. Returning a weighted response to the driver’s input is razor-sharp, electromechanical power rack-and-pinion steering.

Width: 80 inches

Height: 56.6 inches

Fuel capacity: 17.4 gallons

City: 23 mpg

Highway: 33 mpg

Weight: 3,957 pounds

Base price: $45,550

Price as tested: $57,270

Website: www.mbusa.com

on the power dome hood meets up with a larger Benz emblem centered in the A-shaped radiator grille with chrome surrounds. It is flanked by horizontal LED headlights.

A lavish, elegant cabin is expected of any Mercedes with dual auto AC, 40/20/40 rear seat, steering wheel paddle shifters, Apple CarPlay and Android wireless phone capabilities, illuminated door sills, a panoramic sunroof and heated front seats.

The flattened round sets of air vents with ambient lights are a sight to behold, especially at night. A central and jet-black, tablet-like, 11.9-inch touch screen, now tilted toward the driver, serves as an audio, navigation and phone infotainment guide. Indeed, topnotch materials and craftsmanship give the car a rich vibe.

Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag, four-wheel antilock brakes, electronic stability program, pre-safe (partial braking in an emergency), active brake assist and blind-spot assist, forward-collision warning, rearview camera, keyless go/start, daytime running lights and tire-pressure monitoring system are standard.

The compact luxury sedan is 2.6 inches longer with a wheelbase up by 1 and width more than .4 than its predecessor. Also receiving a lift are elbow, head and knee room. Up front, the trademark three-pointed star

Cleaning Services

There is no doubt that the revamped fifth-generation C300 augments the Benz sedan lineup. If you’re in the market for a gorgeous sedan that provides punch around town, impressive handling/balance and a sumptuous cabin bar none, take the C300 for a test drive. It will be well worth your time and efort.

FEMA REPRESENTATIVES STILL AVAILABLE TO HELP HURRICANE IAN RECOVERY

By Brad Stager

The agency is encouraging applicants who need to follow up with such things as submitting documents to do so at a DRC to facilitate the approval process.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY RECEIVES $19.7 MILLION FOR TRANSPORTATION SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS

By Kathy L. Collins

You’re never too far removed from hurricane season in Florida and as most residents enjoy a seasonal respite after the storms of 2022, some in Hillsborough County are still dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, which crossed the Sunshine State in September 2022.

While the deadline to apply for financial aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to pay for damage from Hurricane Ian has passed, the agency is still assisting residents and businesses who have submitted claims and need to follow up to complete processing.

To facilitate the process, FEMA is continuing to operate disaster recovery centers to support impacted residents who have requested assistance such as funding for temporary lodging, rent or basic repairs to damaged homes. The disaster recovery center (DRC) located in Hillsborough County is open six days a week at The Regent in Riverview.

Residents who filed claims with FEMA should have received a letter indicating approval status and how any authorized funding can be spent.

Besides following up on claims, the Hillsborough County DRC has information on receiving recovery support from the Small Business Administration, as well as useful tips on safely cleaning mold, dealing with contractors and preparing for future storms. According to the DRC’s on-site mitigation advisor David Morgan, anyone recovering from Hurricane Ian damage needs to be thinking ahead.

“Build back stronger for the next one,” he said.

Recipients of rental assistance grants from FEMA who cannot return to their primary residence may be eligible for continued temporary housing assistance, and visiting a DRC can be the first step in maintaining the support. Also, even though the initial deadline to file a claim with FEMA has passed, ofcials said consideration will be given to late applications where circumstances warrant it.

“During disasters, FEMA will continue working with individuals and, or families on a case-by-case basis,” La-Tanga Hopes, media relations specialist with FEMA, wrote in an email.

The Hillsborough County DRC is located at The Regent at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview and is open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. No appointment is required. You can also get assistance by calling the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 or visiting www.fema.gov.

Hillsborough County has been awarded a grant totaling $19.7 million to implement low-cost and proven safety measures. These include improving and adding sidewalks, bicycle lanes and speed management. These measures are designed to improve safety for pedestrians, bicyclists, transit users and drivers.

Hillsborough County will use grant money received from the competitive Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program established by the federal infrastructure law to improve safety and access on the county’s roads, including implementing Safe Routes to School at Brandon High School, Limona Elementary School and Riverview High School.

The measures are slated to be installed at 22 locations throughout Hillsborough County. Of the 22 locations, eight of them will be in the Greater Brandon area. Examples of these include implementing Safe Routes to School at Brandon High School, Limona Elementary School and Riverview High School; a pedestrian corridor safety improvements retrofit on West Bloomingdale Avenue from Las Brisas Drive to South Kings Avenue; and a Vision Zero high-injury network corridor safety improvements retrofit at Gibsonton Drive from Interstate 75 to Balm Riverview Road.

The competitive Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program was established by the federal infrastructure law. The grant provides $5 billion over five years to regional, local and tribal initiatives. It is designed for projects involving anything from redesigned roads to better sidewalks and crosswalks, all planned to prevent deaths and serious injuries on the nation’s roadways.

Hillsborough County’s projects are designed to achieve several goals. These include reducing fatalities and severe injuries on county roads, providing a safe space for pedestrians and bicyclists, designing safe roads that require driver attention and encourage safe speeds, improving mobility for those dependent on public transportation, providing sustainable alternatives to driving and engaging the community for greater acceptance and efectiveness.

The projects will be completed within five years of when the grant is executed. This includes planning, designing, environmental permitting, construction and approval processes.

Josh Belotti, director of engineering and operations for Hillsborough County, explained, “Hillsborough County identifies its Vision Zero High Injury Network (HIN) corridors as opportunities to make the greatest strides toward eliminating fatalities and severe injury crashes.”

Belotti added, “Hillsborough County’s data-driven equitable transportation safety programs provide vulnerable road users safety and access to destinations for opportunities. This grant aims to address these concerns by focusing on implementing low-cost, proven solutions to improve safety for pedestrians, bicyclists, transit users and drivers.”

Residents impacted by Hurricane Ian can follow up on the status of their FEMA claims by visiting the FEMA Disaster Recovery Center located inside Te Regent at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview.

TAMPA ELECTRIC HITS A NEW SOLAR MILESTONE WITH 3 NEW PLANTS ONLINE

Three new Tampa Electric solar plants began producing electricity from the sun in recent weeks, helping the company reach a new milestone in its significant solar expansion.

Tampa Electric’s solar projects can now produce 1,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity, also called a gigawatt, enough to power more than 160,000 homes. This wave of solar construction included three new solar projects in Hillsborough County: Laurel Oaks Solar, Riverside Solar and Big Bend Solar II Phase 2.

“Thanks to our strategic investment in solar power, Tampa Electric customers saved about $80 million in fuel costs last year,” said Archie Collins, president and chief executive ofcer of Tampa Electric. “At a time when fuel costs are escalating, we know how important these savings are for customers. And this year, we expect to generate even more power from the sun.”

In conjunction with the recently completed upgrade to the Big Bend Power Station, Tampa Electric’s solar investments have helped to dramatically change how the company creates electricity. In 2023, the company’s fuel mix is expected to be about 85 percent natural gas, nearly 10 percent solar and only 5 percent coal.

The company currently has another 230 MW of solar power under construction, with more planned by the end of 2025.

At that time, Tampa Electric will have more than 1,600 MW of solar, which will be able to serve 260,000 homes. When those projects are complete, Tampa Electric will have about 17 percent of its energy generated from the sun — the highest percentage of solar generation of any utility in the state.

Tampa Electric’s investment in solar energy helps to:

• Save fuel costs for customers and reduce the impact of volatile natural gas prices. In 2022 alone, solar power saved customers $80 million in fuel costs.

• Conserve water. By repurposing former agricultural land for solar investments, Tampa Electric has saved more than 4.3 billion gallons of water in an area of the state with critical concerns about water use.

• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Tampa Electric is committed to a cleaner-energy future, and these projects will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by more than 2.35 million tons every year, which is roughly equal to removing 500,000 cars from the road.

Tampa Electric, one of Florida’s largest investor-owned electric utilities, serves about 830,000 customers in West Central Florida. Tampa Electric is a subsidiary of Emera Inc., a geographically diverse energy and services company headquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.

HEADACHES!

Headaches can happen for many reasons which make it difficult to know what type of headache you have and the cause. Migraines, tension/cervicogenic headaches, and cluster headaches are the main forms of primary headache disorders. Commonly enough, many of them can be traced back to the neck or surrounding musculature.

WHAT IT IS

Posture plays a critical role regarding neck pain, which can cause pain in the head region, triggering a headache. Existing in today’s world with desk jobs, poor sleeping habits, and excessive technology use — to name a few — all can have potential influence on headaches. The muscles, tendons, and ligaments of our neck are pain sensitive and can send symptoms to other areas of the body.

WHAT IT ISN’T

Cervicogenic headaches, or secondary headaches which are caused by another illness or physical issue, are rarely a sign of something scary or dangerous. However, it’s important to distinguish the difference from other types of headache as they can share similar symptoms.

Migraine headaches are typically more severe and have a known trigger, e.g., food, light, smells. Pain is usually on one side of the head with symptoms behind the eye and at the back of the head and nausea and vomiting are common. Some experience “auras” or visual disturbances preceding a migraine. Migraines can last a few hours to as long as a few days and can occur seldom or several times a year.

Cluster headaches are very intense and commonly felt right behind one eye, and their underlying cause is unknown. They occur regularly over a period in “clusters” and can last anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours, occurring multiple times in a day over several weeks.

If a headache occurs suddenly and accompanied by pain, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or unconsciousness — especially when associated with trauma — seek emergency medical care immediately.

WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST CHAMBER MEMBERS:

CAROLE GILL CONSULTING

QUALITY LIFE MASSAGE THERAPY

BONNY DAY DESIGNS

THE RIDDLE FAMILY INSURANCE, LLC

EXPERIENCED AUTISM ALLIANCE

SIDEKICKS FAMILY MARTIAL ARTS CENTER

E.C.H.O. AKA ELITE CLEANING & HOUSEHOLD ORGANIZATION, LLC

ADAMS/REVIS TEAM-COLDWELL BANKER

RAINING CATS AND DOGS SHELTER AND SANCTUARY

DOG TRAINING ELITE GREATER TAMPA

JENNIFER STINSON, INDEPENDENT AMBASSADOR NOONDAY COLLECTION CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS BY THERESA-CW2T

DREAM THAT BIG PUBLISHING

EMAIDS OF GREATER BRANDON

JENNINGS OVERHEAD GARAGE DOOR SERVICE, LLC

WALMART HEALTH CENTER

Your Child Speaking Clearly?

GRADUATE of

“Jay’s articulation has improved tremendously with speech therapy. I am so pleased to hear him converse more efortlessly with friends and family.

A big thank you to Ms. Julie and her friendly, dedicated staf for working so diligently with him.” -Angelica, Mom

TAMPA

Dr. Robert Lutz

Photos courtesy of Tampa Electric. Big Bend Solar II Phase 2.

THE HILLSBOROUGH LITERACY COUNCIL OFFERS FREE TUTORING FOR ADULTS WHO WANT TO LEARN TO READ AND WRITE

If you know an adult Hillsborough resident who needs help with reading and writing or instruction in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), or learning to speak English, the Hillsborough Literacy Council may be able to help. The Hillsborough Literacy Council ofers volunteer-based tutoring in adult literacy and ESOL free of charge.

In addition to helping adults who do not have proficient or any ability to read and write, the Hillsborough Literacy Council provides instruction in English for ESOL up to the fifth grade level. The tutoring is arranged at times that are convenient for both the student and the tutor. The student and tutor meet at a local library during regular library hours.

Tutoring is a minimum of one hour per week, but it can be longer depending on the availability of the tutor. Tutoring is set up on a case-by-case basis. There may be a wait depending on the availability of tutors at diferent locations.

In addition to the free tutoring and instruction in English for ESOL, the Hillsborough Literacy Council ofers Conversation Corners. These are practice ses-

By Kathy L. Collins

sions for people who want to practice speaking English with others. There is no registration requirement for the Conversation Corners. Conversation Corners follow a schedule, which can be found at https:// hillsboroughliteracy.org/learn/ english-practice.

Eric Hughes is a board member with the Hillsborough Literacy Council. Hughes said, “The need for literacy and ESL instruction is as strong as ever. Florida has the third-highest rate of literacy issues among adults in the U.S. Hillsborough County is a common destination for immigration and migration. The Hillsborough Literacy Council is the only organization that, with the continued support of the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library, provides free instruction to any member of the community. Our tutoring takes place in our public libraries or virtually, and there is no cost to become a volunteer tutor or student.”

Students must pay $5 for a workbook.

If you are interested in receiving services, contact the Hillsborough Literacy Council at adultliteracy@hillsboroughcounty.org or call 813-273-3650 in any language.

CONCERTS FOR 2023

ONE MAN’S TRASH IS ANOTHER MAN’S CASTLE

When you think of Florida, perhaps what comes to mind is sandy beaches, Everglades or theme parks. But Florida also hosts a plethora of hidden gems and tiny little towns worth exploring. Located southwest of Wauchula is Ona, home to Solomon’s Castle, a oneof-a-kind home, art studio, classic-car collection, Spanish galleon and cafe. Driving from Greater Tampa Bay, a helpful mantra is “Keep going, you’re almost there.”

Known as the ‘Rembrandt of Refuse,’ Howard Solomon was a brilliant artist, sculptor, architect and businessman. Neighbors donated their scrap metal, bits of wood, used paint cans, oil drums and used lawn mower parts only to find them repurposed by Solomon to create masterpieces of art and design.

When first entering the property, located out of the way on 90 acres of Florida swampland, you’ll discover a fairy-tale castle, covered with recycled newspaper print foils, the home Solomon built for himself and his family. Inside the castle, you’ll discover rooms of sculptures and art displays designed by Solomon. Not an art lover? No matter. The originality and brilliance of the pieces on display will amaze and delight

By Jef Hoening

you, all made from reclaimed materials and boasting witty versions of serious art. Also on the property is a three-fourthsscale Christopher Columbus Santa Maria housing a comfortable cafe where you can try the delicious, warm apple crisp with cinnamon ice cream, among other things. Just through the cafe is a shady patio and gift shop, and during our visit it had live music. Witty and fun tour guides escort visitors through the castle’s art gallery and downstairs living quarters. Tours are $33 and only cash is accepted, but there is an ATM on-site. For a small extra fee, your guide takes you in a golf cart past a nearly full-size replica facade of the Alamo fort, built to frame one of Solomon’s storage garages. In his later years, Solomon enjoyed collecting classic cars — older than 1935, the year he was born. These are now on display alongside other interesting transportation-themed art pieces in his air-conditioned garage. Solomon’s Castle is a distinctive and charming must-see experience if you’re looking for something uniquely Florida and of the beaten path. Solomon’s Castle is located at 4533 Solomon Rd. in Ona. For more, call 863-4946077 or visit solomonscastle.com.

Te Hillsborough Literacy Council provides free tutoring for adults to learn to how read and write in English as well as an opportunity for non-English speakers to practice speaking English. Its services are o fered free of charge at your local library.

Howard Solomon started building his castle in 1972, and it took seven years to complete the 12,000-square-foot structure.

BLOOMINGDALE YOUTH SPORTS ASSOCIATION 12U TEAM SWINGS BIG FOR COOPERSTOWN

Once again, the 12U AB team for Bloomingdale Youth Sports Association (BYSA) in Valrico is going to Cooperstown, New York. The Bloomingdale AB Bandits are excited to play in the annual tournament this summer, with this being the last chance for the 12-yearolds on the team to ‘hit it out of the park’ in Cooperstown. The tournament is occurring in early August, with 12 out the 13 players on the roster set to compete in the games.

While that tournament is almost half a year away, there is a lot coming up for the Bandits to focus on as they wrap up their AB season. The season is currently underway for the young players with a handful of upcoming games over the next few months, playing next on Sunday, March 5 and 26, and then the championship on Sunday, April 30.

Additionally, the Bandits have a lofty fundraising goal of $22,000 that they hope to achieve through a variety of methods. Some of their current plans consist of savings cards, hat drops at local grocery stores and a variety of rafes. Coach Tom Irwin also shared that they are currently in the planning process of actual events and spirit nights at local restaurants, such as Your Pie Pizza. Even with most of the fundraisers still in the planning stages, the players have

By Jonathan Hurst

already managed to raise $1,000 and are eager to go after the rest.

AB is short for advanced baseball, which functions as a hybrid of sorts between travel and recreation baseball. The players all tried out for the team before mak- ing it and play on rec- reational (rec) Little League teams simultaneously, and sometimes they will even face their AB teammates in the rec league. The rec games are played on Saturday, while the AB games are played on Sunday.

This group of kids have practiced and played together since December 2022 under Irwin and are starting to hit their stride. After the conclusion of the AB championship tournament, the players will continue practicing until their Cooperstown tournament.

“Coaching this team and preparing them to be competitive is a challenge I welcome. Developing these young men both on and of the field is a priority for me,” Irwin said.

For more information on the Bandits fundraising eforts, events and games, search for “Bloomingdale 12U AB Spring 2023” on Facebook; and if you would like to donate directly to the team, visit their GoFundMe page at https://gofund.me/ c50a5330. For more information about BYSA, visit www.bysafl.com.

Whether it is spring or fall, it is a common sight to see Coach Justin Shive pacing the sidelines on Newsome High School’s field. The 2021 Flag Football Coach of the Year currently serves as Head Coach of Varsity flag football and Assistant Head Coach and O f ensive Line Coach of Varsity tackle football. Shive has been coaching for over two decades at this point, and coaching has taken him all over central Florida and Hillsborough County as he has coached every position in football outside of kickers.

Shive started his coaching career in tackle football, which led him to the various di f erent positions at Hillsborough schools like Riverview, Leto and Spoto prior to Newsome. He did not get involved with flag until the head coach position opened at Newsome. While he did not have any inclination towards coaching flag, he saw the open position as a new avenue and a way to present skills in a di f erent way.

Since accepting the flag Head Coach position, Shive was able to lead the team to the school’s first flag football state championship in 2021, with back to back appearances in the championship game in 2021 and 2022.

By Jonathan Hurst

“It was unreal. I knew the team was special, as the season progressed the idea was getting more a reality. Winning one was one of the sweetest moments of my coaching career. Seeing the absolute joy on my players face s was the biggest reward any coach could have,”

Shive said. While he has achieved a lot on the field as a coach, he also has a profound o f the field impact on his players as a leader, mentor and role model, which is something that he takes pride in. Shive has a unique ability to connect with his players which allows them to maximize their potential in athletics and otherwise.

“One of the biggest coaching accomplishments are being able to see the achievement of my players after they leave the program,” Shive said.

After 23 years coaching, Shive has impacted countless individuals and continues to do so, to this day. While he is not looking too far into the future, he acknowledges that he keeps coming back because coaching is a part of who he is. Hopefully he will continue to for years to come, as his impact on the youth immeasurable and something that should not be overlooked.

Newsome Flag Football Coach Justin Shive.

It is no secret this part of the country has become one of the most sought-after to live, and when residential growth explodes as it has in SE Hillsborough County, commercial growth is soon to follow. As seen by the logos, many of these are name-brand chain operations.

According to Mark Sneed, senior vice president at SRS Real Estate Partners, whose firm represents the new plaza located at the northwest corner of Symmes Road and U.S. Highway 301, the trend we are seeing toward more chain operations is not a corporate takeover. He clarified information about his tenants and updated leasing requirements for commercial properties that helped explain the influx of more namebrand stores around town.

With commercial development, there is a tremendous amount of behind-the-scenes work and negotiations that need to occur before the construction stage. Assisting tenants in securing a location along with as sisting developers in securing the financing necessary to fund the building of the struc tures are vital for the success of the project. Even though we are seeing restaurants and shops considered chain stores, Sneed reminded me, “Many of these are franchis es that are owned and operated by local residents. They are still ‘ma-and-pa oper ations’; however, they now opt to go the franchise route in order to quickly attract business and provide the property owner with a proven business plan.” The owners of both Knockouts Haircuts as well as Tropical Smoothie Cafe are local residents, with Smiles Dentistry providing the credit-worthy tenant necessary to secure financing for the build.

He told me demographics such as median age, household income and population within 5 miles, as well as changes in shopping trends, tightening of lending criteria and zoning restrictions, all play a role in the loca-

tion of new shops and restaurants.

For example, with his Symmes Road proj ect, Sneed had a much-requested tenant lined up for the parcel, but county zoning restrictions prohibited a drive-through at the location.

Changes in shopping trends include the Amazon efect, where online orders have significantly altered the need for physical locations in industries such as books, music and apparel. Developers have steered away from strip center and toward mixed-use projects, converting commercially available space into residential uses. Lenders want

Those are some of the reasons we are seeing more brand-name tenants in our area, yet many of these remain locally owned.

Starting north at State Road 60 working south and moving from west to east on a map, here is a partial list of new places you will be able to visit within the next several months. Keep in mind, these projects can take 24 months or more from rezoning to completion.

Brandon is poised to get a new Chick-Fil-A

By Brian Bokor

at South Hilltop Road and State Road 60, ee under construction on State Road 60 at North Knights Avenue. Further south, Causeway Boulevard is set to see three new restaurants, Qdoba Mexican Eats at Falkenburg Road along with a Panera Bread and Chipotle under construction further east at the old Cheddar’s location

Taco Bell has rights to a location at U.S. Highway 301 and Falkenburg Road, and Cheddar’s is working to bring a new location to Bloomingdale Avenue. Also coming to Bloomingdale Avenue will be a Duck Donuts and iSMASH amusement center in Bloomingdale Square as well as an Andy’s Frozen Custard near the Walmart Supercenter.

Gibsonton Drive gets a Fatburger and Bufalo’s Express at the Shoppes of Lithia near the I-75 interchange, with a new Starbucks planned for a location near Mathog Road across from Lowes.

The aforementioned plaza at Symmes Road and U.S. Highway 301 call for a Smiles Dentistry, Knockout Haircuts, and Tropical Smoothie Cafe.

Starbucks’ second new location will be at Big Bend Road and Waterset Boulevard, and U.S. Highway 41 and Elsberry Road are slated for a new First Watch and Tijuana Flats along with Trulieve and AT&T.

A third Starbucks is ready to break ground of U.S. Highway 301 and Balm Road in Wimauma, with a Keke’s Breakfast Cafe opening in Sun City Center at South Bay Plaza.

Non-chain restaurants opening include a Canopy Road Café of FishHawk Boulevard in Lithia and a Banh Mi Factory of Big Bend Road. And finally, a new EggTown restaurant is coming in the FishHawk area, and, saving this until the end, a new Peach Cobbler Factory will be somewhere in Brandon. Stay tuned.

LOCAL AUTHOR’S PERSONAL EXPERIENCE ESSAY IS IN NEW CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE SOUL BOOK

Local author and artist Kat Heckenbach of Valrico is one of the authors of a personal experience essay in a new book called Chicken Soup for the Soul: Lessons Learned from My Dog. The book contains 101 stories chosen from thousands of submissions.

Heckenbach’s essay is titled “A Promise Kept.” Heckenbach’s essay is all about keeping a promise, made long ago under diferent circumstances, to care for a neighbor’s dog, Sheba. While Heckenbach could not personally keep her, she facilitated a way for Sheba to find her forever home.

Heckenbach said, “For me, it was about being willing to step forward and do some action toward keeping the promise. Sometimes you find yourself a part of something you did not expect. This situation felt more right than just keeping her. If not for me stepping up, she would not have gotten to the family.”

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Lessons Learned from My Dog will have dog lovers laughing, tearing up and nodding their heads in recognition as they read the 101 touching, inspiring and sometimes mindboggling stories about all the ways in

NEW HEIGHTS FOR SALTY SHAMROCK’S ANNUAL ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARTIES

By Jonathan Hurst

By Kathy L. Collins

which dogs enrich our lives, become part of our families and make us better people.

Chicken Soup for the Soul is donating royalties from the book to American Humane, along with the royalties from its other new book, Chicken Soup for the Soul: Lessons Learned from My Cat This is the seventh pair of books about cats and dogs that Chicken Soup for the Soul has published with royalties earmarked for American Humane. This efort is part of the company’s widespread support for animal shelters and pet adoption, including the donation of Chicken Soup for the Soul pet food and books to shelters across the country.

Heckenbach began writing in 2008. She explained, “It was a spur of the moment. I always wanted to write but I never gave myself a chance. It kept building inside and I needed to give it a chance, so I just sat down and started to write. What I wrote became the first chapter of my first book.”

Since then, Heckenbach has published several short stories and essays. Heckenbach is also an artist. You can find out more about her at www.katheckenbach. com and www.jumpingrails.etsy.com.

Back and better than ever, the Salty Shamrock’s annual St. Puppy’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day Festival have returned for more Irish fun. The first of the festivities kicks of at the Salty Shamrock at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 12 when St. Puppy’s Day gets underway. The St. Patrick’s Day Festival gets started later on in the week on Friday, March 17 at 11 a.m. before running through the weekend for the first time ever.

St. Puppy’s Day has been a tradition long before it came to the Salty Shamrock in 2016, as owners Sean and Aine Rice were putting on this event for years, even prior to owning the Salty Shamrock. A fun time for the whole family, there is an anticipated 200-300 dogs involved, as owners and contestants have come from as far as other states in the past to engage in the good times.

“Salty’s is extremely community-oriented, and most of our events serve the community, but it is so cool to see how it has grown outside the community and we are excited for people to enjoy the expanded experience,” general manager Terri Sherman said.

It has become somewhat of a tradition for some owners to take unique approaches to give their pups an edge by having them done costumes that they will often match themselves. Free registration begins on-site at 1 p.m. on the day of the event, and all contestants must be signed up by 2 p.m. in order to try their luck at winning the trophy in one of the four competitions: Best Male Dog,

Best Female Dog, Best in Show and Best Owner/ Dog Look-alike.

The contestants begin by walking the parade that will take a route throughout the location and vendors before ending in front of the judges. There will be a variety of dog-oriented vendors on-site that will ofer things such as bandanas, collars and leashes, and there will also be adoption agencies and pet rescue organizations such as CARE Ruskin to allow for adoptions. Furthermore, you can expect great music throughout the day and a promotional event where there will be free samples of Guinness and Jameson Orange.

The fun does not stop there, because just five days later the biggest St. Patrick’s Day Festival that the Salty Shamrock has ever seen arrives, gets going and does not stop until the following Sunday, March 19 at 6 p.m. For $10, you receive a wristband that grants you full access to the three-day event, where there will be the typical green beer and Irish foods that only come out the Salty Shamrock kitchen for one weekend a year, as well as live music throughout each day. The authentic Irish experience does not end there either, as performances from Blue Skye Pipes and Drums and the Irish Ramblers, on tour from Ireland, complete the experience. Salty Shamrock is located at 6186 N US Highway 41, Apollo Beach, FL near the corner of U.S. Hwy 41 and Apollo Beach Blvd. . For more information on these events, visit www.facebook.com/saltyshamrockFL.

Blue Skye Pipes and Drums is a Sarasota based all-female pipe band and Celtic performance band.

Kat Heckenbach’s personal experience essay, “A Promise Kept,” was one of 101 essays selected for Chicken Soup for Te Soul: Lessons Learned from My Dog. All royalties from this book are being donated to American Humane.

TRIPLE CREEK RADIO CONTROL AIRCRAFT CLUB WELCOMES PILOTS

How many of you know that we have a firstclass RC airfield in our backyard as well as a certified USA-BMX track?

Triple Creek RC Aircraft Club (TCRC), situated on 58 acres of county-owned property shared with the BMX Triple Creek track, is located at 12705 Balm Boyette Rd. south of Rhodine Rd. and north of County Road 672 and Balm Road in Riverview.

The club, which has been active for over 17 years and has nearly 150 members, provides a wonderful opportunity for both new as well as established RC pilots to join a group of like-minded enthusiasts who love to fly, instruct or just hang out and enjoy a day at the airfield.

The airfield features a 350-foot by 35-foot paved runway, a 40-acre flat and mowed outfield, and three taxiways. There is a large, open pit area for parked aircraft and a covered pit area with worktables and electricity at every station for pilots to work on their planes. There is also a spectator area with a kitchen and serving area for anyone wanting to prepare a snack at the park.

“Getting started is as easy as contacting the club or an existing member and setting up an intro flight,” said Keith Hall, president of the TCRC. Existing members will be happy to discuss the requirements and gear necessary to get started. It was surprising how little of an investment it took to get involved with RC planes if taking it up as a new hobby.

TRIPLE CREEK BMX TRACK WELCOMES NEW RIDERS

By Brian Bokor

“All you need is an airplane, transmitter, AMA membership for insurance and a FAA registration, the same as drone operators need.

Trainer planes start as low as $200 and can be found at local hobby shops as well as online, or you can come out to the field at one of our swap meets and look over several options giving you the opportunity of meeting and speaking with previous owners.”

“We are a fly-at-your-own-risk facility, so I advise beginners to start with a trainer plane and work their way up. New pilots team with existing members early using a buddy-box system where both have control of the plane. Once it has taken of and you are comfortable controlling the aircraft, you take full control and begin learning the basic skills.” If you enjoy your experience and want to join, a one-time initiation fee plus low annual dues are the only additional costs.

Aircraft seen at the airfield include helicopters and drones, although you are more likely to hear the buzz or roar of RC planes overhead. Whether its trainers, gliders, sport planes, aerobatics and scale planes, warbirds or jets, you never know what you might see flying at TCRC. For those owning drones, Keith welcomes them, as he is a fellow drone operator. “Drones can be a lot of fun, but in my opinion there is no comparison between flying my drone and taking out one of my planes.”

Visit the Facebook page or at its website at www.triplecreekrc.com.

Sports enthusiasts looking for new and exciting ways to spend time outdoors in Southeast Hillsborough County have a hidden gem of a facility located at 12705 Balm Boyette Rd. south of Rhodine Road and north of County Road 672 and Balm Road in Riverview.

The 58-acre plot of county-owned property is home to not only a first-class remote control airfield, but it also shares the land with one of the hardest and fastest certified USA BMX tracks around.

The 1,080 ft. Triple Creek BMX track is one of two Hillsborough County-sanctioned USA BMX tracks, with Kurt Laing, operator of the track for the past 10 years, welcoming “anyone new to the area, or to the sport, come out and give it a try, it will not cost you a thing the first day you ride. Triple Creek BMX is a 100 percent volunteer-run nonprofit organization that relies on staf, parents and members to maintain the track as well as the facility.”

It could not be easier to get started, as your first day is free to try. There is no need to call or sign up before going to the track. All you need is a bike, your long pants and long-sleeve shirt, closed-toe shoes and an approved bicycle helmet. Make sure to remove pegs, reflectors and kickstands from your ride before coming to the track.

When you arrive, track volunteers will set you up with a one-day trial member-

By Brian Bokor

ship for practice that day, and if you feel confident enough to enter the race, good luck. Minors 18 and under will require their parents to be in attendance as well as give signatures in order to practice and race that day. There is no age minimum; however, the rider needs to be able to ride around the track on his or her own. Typically, BMX riders start at the age of 4 years old and go to 74 or more.

If you enjoy your experience, annual membership costs are minimal, beginning at $80 per year for one family member, with discounts added for more. Half-price memberships for Strider bikes are available to serve youngest members of BMX families, allowing 2-to-5-year-olds to participate at the track instead of watching their siblings have all the fun. A membership allows you access to over 370 USA BMX tracks nationwide.

USA BMX season runs from January 1 through December 15, and because BMX racing is an individual sport, there is no better time to start riding and racing than right now. A monthly calendar of events is available on the Triple Creek BMX Facebook page — triplecreekbmx — or at its website, www.usabmx.com/tracks/1961.

If you have additional questions not covered online, please contact Laing at info@triplecreekbmx.racing or call 813305-0070.

Enter for a chance to win a $1000 gift card to Airbnb, courtesy of The Tony Baroni Team of Keller Williams Realty! Whether you want to escape to a cozy cabin in the mountains, relax in a beachfront condo, or explore the heart of a bustling city, this prize lets you plan the perfect getaway. Don’t miss your chance to win this amazing prize and treat yourself to the ultimate vacation experience!

2 Ways To Register

The Tony Baroni Team will be donating $2 to the Tampa Bay Humane Society for every caller and registrant. This great organization provides shelter for homeless & at risk animals, adoptions, hospital and TNVR services They can always use blankets, towels, and volunteers. Here are just a few of the animals they care for that are looking for their forever home.

https://humanesocietytampa.org/adopt/

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY

TO HOLD SHRED FEST 2023 ON MARCH 4

Get ready for drive-through spring cleaning to help prevent identity theft.

Hillsborough County Consumer and Veterans Services will host Shred Fest 2023 on Saturday, March 4 from 9 -11 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park, located at 3602 U.S. Hwy. 301 N. in Tampa, where documents will be shredded and electronic devices will be collected for ‘e-shredding.’

This seventh annual event also ofers free education and professional services to kick of National Consumer Protection Week, which will be observed from Sunday through Saturday, March 5-11.

Documents that can be shredded at Shred Fest include:

• Tax records.

• Old bank documents.

• Unnecessary bills and receipts.

• Unnecessary medical records containing personal information.

• Expired home and car insurance policies.

• Junk mail such as credit card ofers with personal information (name/address).

• Old travel documents, including boarding passes.

• Notes containing passwords.

• CDs and DVDs are accepted (no threering binders).

On-site document shredding will be limited to three copy-paper-size boxes or kitchen-size trash bag containers per ve-

BAMBINO BUDDY BALL GIVES ALL ATHLETES THE CHANCE TO PLAY BASEBALL

hicle. White or clear bags are preferred over black trash bags. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) ofers guidelines about how long to keep tax records.

With an eye on cybersecurity, Shred Fest includes free electronic e-shredding. Known as ITAD, the process of information technology asset disposition is the secure and environmentally sustainable disposal of unwanted devices containing data. Residents can drop of their old cellphones, personal computers, laptops, tablets and hard drives to be securely destroyed by an industry-approved and certified recycler.

Attendees to Shred Fest 2023 are encouraged to remain in their vehicles for convenient drive-through drop-ofs. Consumer protection experts will be available to answer questions. All services are free and first come, first served during this one-day event. No commercial shredding will be permitted.

The nonprofit Veterans Council of Hillsborough County will distribute small American flags during Shred Fest and invite new members to join the organization. The park and monuments will remain open during the event.

For more information about Hillsborough County Consumer and Veterans Services, call 813-635-8316 or visit www.hcflgov.net/consumer.

Bloomingdale Youth Sports Association’s Bambino Buddy Ball Division registration is open for the 2023 season, which began on Saturday, February 25.

The division is part of the Babe Ruth League and gives 5-to-20-year-old athletes who are physically and/or mentally challenged the opportunity to play baseball and softball. During games and practices, a volunteer ‘buddy’ will assist the athlete with swinging the bat, running the bases, fielding the ball and having fun playing baseball with their friends.

“Bloomingdale Buddy Ball provides individuals with a mental and/or physical disability the opportunity to play baseball, regardless of their abilities. Buddy Ball helps individuals learn teamwork, promote self-esteem and most important, have fun,” according to the registration flyer.

The season will begin in February and run through April with games on Saturdays. Athletes and their buddies will participate in the games and build a network of friends and teammates.

“Advancing the personal development of any child through team participation and kinship is an important step along the road to success and happiness,” according to the

By Lily Belcher

website.

Participation in the Bambino Buddy Ball Division encourages young athletes to become involved in physical fitness and improve social skills through a team sport. Volunteers have the opportunity to experience the same benefits while learning how to help others.

“As you can see, the Bambino Buddy Ball Division is an emotionally rewarding experience for everyone as it allows the ‘buddies’ to feel good about helping their challenged friends, while at the same time making it a fun and memorable time for all,” according to the website.

Registration is free and includes a jersey and hat for each participant, made possible, in part, by sponsorships from supportive companies. The Bloomingdale Youth Sports Association relies on sponsorships to cover the cost of uniforms, equipment, field maintenance, trophies and medals for its young athletes. There are various sponsorship levels for companies ranging from $3,000-$375.

To register online, visit www.bysafl.com and make an account to fill out the waivers and other parent information. For more information on Bambino Buddy Ball or how to sponsor the Bloomingdale Youth Sports Association, visit the website.

IRIS THURMAN OF ECHO WAS NAMED A LIGHTNING COMMUNITY HERO

One of the driving forces behind ECHO of Brandon was recently recognized for her hard work with the program, as Iris Thurman was named a Lightning Community Hero by the Lightning Foundation. As the 524th Lightning Community Hero, Thurman was presented with a $50,000 donation that will be directed to ECHO, which will be instrumental in helping ECHO continue its mission.

To say Thurman is deserving of this recognition is an understatement since she has developed ECHO’s advocacy department into having multiple full-time sta f as well as interns, and she has gone on to lead the department as well. In all avenues of life it seems, Thurman always rises to the top, as she was the first to graduate college in her family and raised four children as a single parent.

There are further plans to expand the advocacy department in the future as well, which will be greatly aided by the donation from the Lightning Foundation. This grant will directly contribute to allowing ECHO to employ a full-time homeless advocate and supply 20 shelter vouchers.

ECHO of Brandon exists to provide aid and assistance to residents of Hillsborough County who are experiencing food insecurity as well as general insta-

By Jonathan Hurst

bility and crisis within their lives. ECHO provides this help through emergency food and clothing, along with o f ering a variety of ‘Life Rebuilding’ programs, such as employment services and financial counseling. Throughout the year, it offers workshops for budgeting, sewing, couponing, starting a business, selling online and more. ECHO was founded in 1987 as a central place where those in need of help could go, and over the last 30 odd years it has provided countless individuals and families with the resources they needed. What started as a group of volunteers working out of a firehouse has become a permanent fixture within the Brandon community, consistently providing a ray of hope in dark times. With this donation and the leadership of Thurman and the others involved, ECHO will continue to serve the community for years to come. If you would like to volunteer, there are multiple areas available: food pantry, clothing room, ECHO Thrift Store, welcome center, truck driver, ECHO Handmade artisan, community garden, handyman, advocacy care, backto-work job coach and workshop facilitator.

For more information about ECHO, its services, volunteer opportunities or to donate, please visit its website at www. echofl.org/brandon or call 813-6850835. ECHO of Brandon is located at 507 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon.

February is American Heart Month and St. Joseph’s Hospital-South is celebrating the opening of its fourth cardiac catheterization laboratory.

The cardiac cath lab is a surgical suite where procedures such as angioplasties and stents are performed; angioplasties and stents open up blood vessels in heart patients. This lab is also where pacemakers and defibrillators are surgically implanted into patients.

In addition to cardiac catheterization procedures, the lab is also used for interventional radiology (IR) procedures. Interventional radiology is a specialty that uses imaging technology to diagnose and treat conditions without the need for surgery. IR procedures involving kidneys, the liver and cancerous tumors are among those done in the cath lab.

“The cardiac cath lab is where we can treat everything in your circulatory system and blood vessels,” said Brian Frazier, St. Joseph’s Hospital-South’s interventional services manager, who oversees the hospital’s cath labs. “We treat anything going wrong in a patient’s extremities, your heart and all things that connect those pieces. The cardiac cath lab is a place where we can open

up plaque and clear pathways using balloons and stents.”

Approximately 3,400 procedures are done annually in St. Joseph’s Hospital-South’s cath labs. Frazier, who began with the hospital when it first opened in 2015, said it originally had two cath labs. A third was added three years after opening.

Frazier said the growth of the area and the Riverview hospital necessitated the expansion to four cath labs. St. Joseph’s Hospital-South has more than doubled in capacity to its current size of 223 beds since opening.

“Our volume has increased,” Frazier said. “We’ve added more doctors with hospital privileges, bringing us more patients — we’ve had to accommodate them. We’re meeting the needs brought on by the population growth in the community.”

As manager of 17 team members working in the cath labs, Frazier said he’s tried to instill a culture of “work family.”

“The notion of a work family is what I believe separates us and BayCare in general,” he said. “We do not treat patients as numbers, BayCare doesn’t do this. Team members know this, and I believe the community knows this when they come here for treatment.”

Photos courtesy of ECHO Brandon.

Iris Turman was recognized by Lightning Foundation for her hard work at ECHO of Brandon.

From left to right, St. Joseph’s Hospital-South team members in the hospital’s new cardiac catheterization laboratory, Glorianne Ruiz Ojeda, Brian Frazier and Kristy Bellamy.

Te newest and fourth cardiac catheterization laboratory at St. Joseph’s Hospital-South.

If you’ve explored the vast Florida coastlines and any of the mangrove habitats in the Sunshine State, then you’ve been around mangrove tree crabs. This common and fascinating species can be found in tropical and subtropical parts of the America’s and has the scientific name Aratus pisonii. These small, dark crustaceans can be seen crawling atop mangrove trees during high tide and venturing onto the ground in low tide. Often, they are observed in large numbers traveling vertically up and around the branches.

Mangrove tree crabs have a grayish-brown, black or olive-green shell (carapace) and will average about 1-2 inches in size. The male crabs are typically slightly larger than females. Mangrove tree crabs are uniquely flatter in surface structure than other crabs and their legs are spread out to the side to better climb the trees in which they live. Unlike other crabs, their eyes are wideset on either side of their carapace. This likely aids their vision when navigating the mangroves.

Mangrove tree crabs are omnivores and feed mostly on detritus, algae, small invertebrates and animal matter. The most important part of their diet comes from the leaves of the mangrove trees in which they inhabit. Mangrove tree crabs reproduce year-round. Even with their

EARLY CHILDHOOD COUNCIL OFFERS DEVELOPMENTAL SCREENING APPOINTMENTS FOR CHILDREN

By Kathy L. Collins

small size, the female can carry over 30,000 eggs on her back, depending on the width of her carapace. It is also believed that their hatching cycles coincide with moon phases, though the study is not conclusive.

Mangrove tree crabs are commonly preyed upon by shorebirds, fish and even other crabs that live in their mangrove environment. They use their quick speed, where they impressively can run up to a meter per second, as a defense mechanism to avoid predation.

While they are interesting to witness, these crabs also play an important role in the ecosystem by helping to break down plant and animal matter, and by providing food for other animals. Most importantly, by consuming the mangrove leaves, mangrove tree crabs help keep estuaries clean from leaf debris. Mangrove tree crabs are fun to observe when visiting a coastal mangrove environment and, like so much of our wildlife, they play a crucial role in keeping Florida wild. Remember to keep our mangrove habitats clean and protect this local species so that we can enjoy the beauty of nature for years to come.

Ali Holton is currently director of FishHawk TNR Inc. She has a master’s in biodiversity, wildlife and ecosystems and 20 years of experience specializing in animal behavior and conservation. To reach her, email fshhawktnr4@gmail.com.

The Early Childhood Council of Hillsborough County Inc. (ECC) was formed in 1983 with a focus on identifying and addressing service gaps for young children with disabilities. ECC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit funded by the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County. Because of the funding ECC receives, it is able to provide services without imposing a financial burden on the family.

Te Early Childhood Council of Hillsborough County Inc. (ECC) ofers developmental screenings for children as young as 1 month old. It is never too early to begin

Greg Van Pelt, clinical director for ECC, said, “Our core areas of focus are supporting inclusion in the childcare community, access to early childhood developmental screening and supporting workforce capacity through professional development.”

Access to developmental screening is important. One in five children will develop some form of delay or disability prior to kindergarten. According to Van Pelt, “A developmental screening is a way of checking in on a child’s milestone progress and can be the very first opportunity to identify possible delays in development and then respond through guidance, early intervention services and support.”

Screening is done in the key domains of speech and language, hearing, vision, cognitive capacity, motor skills and social-emotional development.

Van Pelt said, “It is never too early. Screening can be started as early as 1 month old and have intervals going

through 5 and a half years old. The beauty of screening is that you do not have to wait to have a concern. You just need to be curious about where your child is developmentally and about what the continued path of development may look like.”

He added, “Sometimes, screening is not addressed until closer to 3 years of age, when concerns in development become more visible. If we wait too long, then there are so many potential opportunities that have been missed.”

With screening, you can celebrate developmental progress, and the caregiver knows what to expect and prepare for moving forward. Regular screening can identify potential hiccups as early as possible and put a plan in place to better support the child’s needs.

Van Pelt said, “Good screening empowers our families by arming them with information, involving them in the path forward and validating them as being the expert of their own child.”

ECC has a full screening calendar each month through July.

On Thursday, June 15, a screening will be ofered at the Children’s Board Family Resource Center in Plant City. Parents can start an Ages and Stages Questionnaire through an online portal. Both the calendar and portal can be accessed at www.ecctampabay.org.

UNITED WAY SUNCOAST’S VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE PROGRAM HELPS TAXPAYERS

United Way Suncoast is sponsoring the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program to help community members with their tax returns for free.

Through the program, taxpayers in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota and DeSoto counties will be assisted by IRS-certified volunteers. VITA aims to help low and mid-income individuals get a return on their taxes without having to pay for a tax preparer.

“Our goal is to provide no-cost, accurate tax return preparation for households with an income less than $74,000 and ensure that they receive every credit they are entitled to,” said United Way Suncoast’s financial stability manager, Nichole Pena. “One in five taxpayers who is eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit does not claim it; that equates to $135 million in the Suncoast region alone in unclaimed credits each year.”

In the last two years, VITA has helped return over $20 million to the five-county area. VITA volunteers have also caught key mistakes on tax returns done by paid tax preparers to ensure a larger return to the individual. Over 400 individuals are trained to serve at over 40 locations across the area.

ForaLimitedTimeOnly, GiftCardsareAvailable!

COME WATCH THE OSCARS® ON A BIG SCREEN AT THE TAMPA THEATRE

By Lily Belcher

All VITA sites are currently open and accepting appointments until Tax Day on Tuesday, April 18. However, after Tax Day, at least one site in each county will reopen in June to assist individuals with filing prior year returns or resolving a letter from the IRS.

“The VITA program was started in 1971 as a partnership between the IRS and trusted community organizations such as nonprofits, colleges and universities and municipalities to provide no-cost, accurate tax preparation services,” said Pena.

Prior to attending an appointment to receive help from the volunteers, taxpayers should bring their Social Security card, ID, federal income tax return from last year and other income information.

Pena advises taxpayers to make sure all tax returns are accurate and to be wary of fraudulent tax preparers. She said some can decrease or increase your return by manipulating the information on the return, making the taxpayer liable for tax fraud.

For more information on the VITA program or to book an appointment with the IRS-certified volunteers, visit www. uwsvita.org or call 1-833-UWS-VITA (897-8482).

Tampa Theatre will be presenting one of its most glamorous events, the 24th annual Hollywood Awards Night, presented by Amalie Oil Co., on Sunday, March 12. Tickets are on sale now.

Jill Witecki with Tampa Theatre said, “Tampa Bay-area film fans are invited to come toast the nominees and celebrate the winners together at Tampa Theatre’s 24th annual Hollywood Awards Night.”

Tampa’s historic movie palace, Tampa

Teatre, will roll out the red carpet and provide guests with lots of choices of how to watch the 95th annual Academy Awards on Sunday, March 12.

The Hollywood Awards Night Red Carpet Reception begins at 6:30 p.m. on Franklin Street under the historic marquee. After a limo ride around the block, courtesy of longtime event sponsor Skyline Limousine, superstar guests will walk the red carpet past adoring fans and paparazzi, rub shoulders with costumed characters representing Hollywood’s biggest bigwigs and chat with ‘Roan Jivers’ about who or what they are wearing.

Inside the Tampa Theatre, there will be games, prizes, free popcorn and soda. The OSCAR® Red Carpet Live preshow will be on the big screen, along with a cash bar. ABC’s live coverage of the Academy Awards begins at 8 p.m.

Hollywood Awards Night 2023 ofers three levels of watch-party experiences. The Balcony Ticket is just $25. You get to enjoy all of the red-carpet reception

By Kathy L. Collins

activities on Franklin Street as well as watch the 95th Academy Awards® broadcast from the balcony, plus free popcorn, soda and water. A 20 percent discount is available for groups of eight or more.

For $55, you can get the Mezzanine Ticket, which gives you a reserved seat in the mezzanine, two complimentary drink tickets redeemable for beer or wine and a concierge drink service to your seat, plus free popcorn, soda and water.

The VIP Party Deck Ticket is $150. You can enjoy the festivities from a custom stage extension built out over the seats. You get all of the red-carpet reception activities on Franklin Street and admission to watch the 95th Academy Awards broadcast from the VIP Party Deck. It features a bufet dinner catered by SaltBlock Hospitality; open beer, wine and signature cocktails by Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey until 11 p.m.; free popcorn, soda and water; and casual lounge seating.

Guests who stay until the best picture is announced at the end of the telecast will also enjoy doughnuts and cofee in the lobby.

Get your tickets by visiting www.tampatheatre.org.

VITA is a free program sponsored by United Way Suncoast to help taxpayers complete their tax returns.

Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com

Indoor Sewing Supplies Yard Sale

The Piecemakers Quilt Guild of Brandon is hosting a quilting and sewing supplies yard sale on Saturday, March 25 from 9:30

Bay HEAT’s dream of a larger facility for the homeschooling community. You can find the Facebook event page at www.facebook. com/events/698266621523685/.

Historic Event Venue Available In Brandon

The historical GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s Clubhouse is an event venue which can host up to 50 people, making it perfect for baby showers, birthday parties, meetings and more, and it is available now. The building is located at 129 N. Moon Ave. in Brandon. If you are interested in renting the building, visit the website www.gfwcbrandonjuniors.org and select venue rental for more information.

GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s Club Yard Sale

The GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s Club will be holding its semiannual yard sale on Saturday, March 4 from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. There is always a wide variety of objects for sale, including household goods, books and home furnishings, so stop by and find a bargain. The sale will take place at the clubhouse, located at 129 N Moon Ave. in Brandon.

Women’s Self-defense Seminar

a.m.-2:30 p.m. There will be a wide range of items for sale, including fabric, threads, notions, tools, sewing machines, magazines, patterns and more fabric. The event will be held inside the social hall (between the main buildings) at the New Hope church, located at 213 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon. For additional information or to find out more about the Piecemakers Quilt Guild of Brandon, visit its website at www.brandonquiltguild. com.

Tampa Bay HEAT Spring Market

Tampa Bay HEAT (Home Education Activities Teams) Inc. will be holding a spring market on Saturday, April 1 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Come and visit its small-business vendors and kid entrepreneurs at the Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale, located at 710 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. All proceeds from this event benefit the Tampa

Outcast Krav Maga, located at 3636 Erindale Dr., #103 in Valrico, is pleased to be ofering a two-hour self-defense seminar for women to learn basic techniques and build confidence in a relaxed atmosphere. The seminars are held on the second Friday

of every month starting

LIGHTNING OWNERS HAVE DONATED ALMOST $5 MILLION TO V FOUNDATION

The V Foundation for Cancer Research, a top cancer research charity, is receiving a donation of over $1 million from Jef and Penny Vinik. Jef, owner of the NHL’s three-time Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay Lightning, and his wife, Penny, have now donated almost $5 million to the V Foundation, dedicated to the Dick Vitale Fund for Pediatric Cancer. This latest donation of over $1 million includes a $100,000 sponsorship of the 18th annual Dick Vitale Gala, benefiting the V Foundation, which takes place on Friday, May 5 at the Ritz-Carlton in Sarasota.

“Penny and I are committed to the worldclass research the V Foundation supports, and we continue to be inspired by our good friend Dick Vitale’s tireless dedication to changing, and saving, the lives of kids,” Jef said.

The V Foundation has awarded $66.7 million in research grants through the Dick Vitale Fund for Pediatric Cancer. Cancer is the leading cause of death by disease among children. The good news is research is helping to save lives. The five-year survival rate for children (0-14) has increased from 58 percent to 84.7 percent from the mid-1970s to 2017. For adolescents (15-19), it has increased from 68 percent to 85.8 percent during that same time period.

“I’m amazed at the continued support Jef and Penny Vinik are providing to help kids battling cancer and the great research

MARKET RESEARCH ANALYST

$54,413 / year

Send resume to: RH2 Global, LLC

561 Manns Harbor Dr, Apollo Beach, FL 33572

the V Foundation is funding,” said Vitale. “We need new therapies and new treatments that are more precise and have fewer side efects because these kids deserve it. And thanks to generous donors like Jef and Penny, we will get there.”

“We are extremely thankful for Jef and Penny Vinik’s commitment to the V Foundation and our mission of accelerating Victory Over Cancer®,” said V Foundation CEO Shane Jacobson. “Minimal federal funding is dedicated to pediatric cancer research, meaning private funding is critical to saving lives.”

The honorees at this year’s Dick Vitale Gala are:

• Three-time World Series champion with the San Francisco Giants and V Foundation board member Buster Posey.

• NBA Hall of Famer David Robinson.

• ESPN tennis analysts John and Patrick McEnroe.

• NC State Athletic Hall of Fame basketball player and V Foundation board member Dereck Whittenburg, who will receive the John Saunders Courage Award.

• Tennessee men’s basketball head coach Rick Barnes, who will receive the Dick Vitale Spirit Award.

To learn more about the Dick Vitale Gala, visit www.v.org/event/dick-vitale-gala/. For more information about the V Foundation’s mission to accelerate Victory Over Cancer, visit www.v.org.

Photo courtesy of the V Foundation. Jef and Penny Vinik.

FISHHAWK PET SITTING COMPANY CELEBRATES A DECADE OF SERVING CUSTOMERS

No Place Like Home Pet Sitting and owner Michelle Quessenberry are celebrating their 10-year anniversary of serving families and pets in the FishHawk area.

Quessenberry started No Place Like Home Pet Sitting in March of 2013. She and her three employees serve around 300 FishHawk families through their in-home pet-sitting service.

“I’ve always had a love for animal. … This was my way, I guess, of working with animals and being my own entrepreneur. I wanted to work for myself, so I started doing this,” said Quessenberry.

No Place Like Home Pet Sitting allows pets to stay in the comfort of their own homes rather than being boarded at a diferent house or kennel. The company is fully insured and bonded, and it conducts extensive background checks and training for employees.

When hiring, Quessenberry wants to ensure she hires honest, pet-loving individuals who she would trust to send into someone’s home. Her employees all have previous experience caring for animals and participate in continuous education through No Place Like Home Pet Sitting, which sponsors additional training and education.

Quessenberry works with a business

SASSY CAT CLUB CAFE OPENING FOR ADOPTIONS

IN BRANDON

By Meghan Reyes

By Lily Belcher

coach and belongs to a number of international pet-sitting networks, like Pet Sitting International, that provide conferences and educational experiences.

“I just try to do everything the right way and operate as a true business. This is not a hobby for me. This is my life, this is what I’ve worked hard for over 10 years,” said Quessenberry.

No Place Like Home Pet Sitting employees are fully equipped to take care of their clients’ animals. During walks, they carry deterrents, like an airhorn or citronella spray, to defend the pets in their care against wild animals or other pets that may pose a threat during walks. Employees also have an app to track the walks with a client’s pet that the client can watch. The GPS tracker gives real-time updates when the pet sitter is in a client’s home.

“I love this more than anything. I like being my own boss. I love working with animals,” said Quessenberry. “This is a service that people [use] because they love their animals so much. That’s why I love my job, because people care about their animals so much.”

For more information on pricing and policies for No Place Like Home Pet Sitting, visit the website at www.nplhpetsit. com or call 813-494-4538.

Nikki Smith worked as a veterinary technician for 30 years, but once she experienced her first cat cafe, the dream of the Sassy Cat Club Cafe was born.

“I saw my first cat cafe about three years ago in Ft. Myers while my husband was working in the area,” Smith said, “He turned to me and said, ‘This is what you should do.’ The idea slowly grew on me, and when I decided to retire from working as a veterinary technician for 30 years, this idea became my new passion.”

Smith and the Sassy Cat Club Cafe will ofer a place where people can relax and experience animal therapy while helping to enrich the lives of the fosters in their care. The Sassy Cat Club Cafe hopes to adopt every cat in its care and find them a forever home. Smith will be partnering with A Kitten Place, a local Brandon cat charity, to find fosters and adoptable cats. In addition, Sassy Cat Club Cafe serves guests by providing a place for them to enjoy the company of cats in a relaxing and caring environment.

“A visit to a cat cafe helps you slow down and enjoy relaxing with the cats,” Smith said.

Cat cafes are essential parts of the community, as they are not only beneficial to kittens but to families as well. In order to help defray the costs of housing and caring for the adoptees, there is

a small fee to access the cat lounge to spend time with, interact with and provide enrichment for the wonderful felines. For one hour access to the cat lounge, there is a general admission fee of $15 per adult. Children under 2 years old are admitted free of charge.

The cafe will provide cofee, tea, hot chocolate, cupcakes and cookies from Moreno Bakery.

“Through a partnership with A Kitten Place rescue, we help save lives and provide an interactive experience for potential adopters and animal lovers alike,” Smith said. “This partnership benefits both the human and animal communities.”

The Sassy Cat Club Cafe is located in Oak Park Plaza at 735 W. Lumsden Ave. in Brandon and will is open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m.6 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Reservations can be made on its website, https://sassycatclubcafe. com/. In addition, walk-in reservations are welcome as space allows.

Michelle Quessenberry has served FishHawk families for 10 years through her business, No Place Like Home Pet Sitting.

It’s time again for Relay For Life, that terrific fundraiser in which teams of all ages collect donations and take turns walking or running laps for up to 24 hours, always keeping at least 1 teammate on track. Please consider giving or getting involved! For details go to www.relayforlife.org or call 800-227-2345.

This FishHawk West beauty is bigger than it seems beyond the landscaped yard & front porch overlooking neighborhood greenspace! At 2,450 SF, it boasts 5 bedrooms plus a bonus room, 3 full baths, & a screened lanai in a fenced, pie-shaped yard of nearly 1/4 acre. The master suite & 3 other bedrooms are downstairs while the remaining bed/bath combo is upstairs with the bonus for flexible family or guest use. Best of all, of course, it’s in FishHawk home to resort-style pools, playground parks, clubhouses, fitness centers, sports facilities, wooded trails, shops, restaurants, & some of the top-rated schools in Florida! You want to live here! Coming to the market this month for sale at $575,000.

Quality rentals are an important part of our market, & this fully furnished former model in FishHawk can be yours for a year or even 7 months! It's like a lovely vacation villa in a security-gated enclave, from crown molding & custom finishes to its decorator furniture & all appliances. This was the 2016 Neal Communities model near the front of FishHawk West, which provides its own version of the amenities that made this area such a popular destination. The 1,525-SF villa has 2 bedrooms plus an office, 2 full bathrooms, a 2-car garage, & a screened back lanai with a woodsy view. The current renter is set to move into her newly built home this month. Please contact me for price & details.

Over $20 million in sales in 2022

RE/MAX Hall of Fame, Top 1% among all agents across Tampa Bay

Certified Luxury Home Specialist Newsome High, Riverview High parent

“I live here. I love it here. And I sell here like no one else!”

In Riverview’s Riverglen neighborhood, a solar-heated pool in a screened lanai behind a privacy fence doublegated on both sides takes this quarter-acre yard from functional to exceptional! The 3/2/2 has 1,800 SF, a 2021 AC, an updated kitchen & HOA fees only $85 per quarter. $399,000.

Cristina

Riverview High close to

schools, shops,

& the YMCA s Camp Cristina.

$475,000.

SF Florida room, conditioned & overlooking a pond, makes this former model ‘live ’ than 1,800 SF! In Riverview s Boyette Farms neighborhood, it offers 3 bedrooms plus office & 2 baths. The original owner’s care includes replacement windows, roof & AC for no worries. $419,900.

This home isn't large at 1,367 SF, but it has big advantages! The smart layout delivers 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1.5-car garage, & a screened lanai overlooking a privacy-fenced yard. It s on a nice circle in Lakeside, a Riverview neighborhood with a waterfront park just off U.S. 301. $318,000.

Enjoy low-maintenance living & gated security in a quality community with clubhouse, pool & playground near countless conveniences! It s all here in Riverview’s Villa Serena, where this 1st-floor, end-unit, 2/2/1 condominium has more than 1,530 SF, a brandnew roof & no back neighbor. $299,000.

A gated enclave within Panther Trace is where you ll find this quality villa featuring upgraded floors & finishes! The open design makes the most of 1,500 SF, with a living area extended for flexibility in addition to 2 beds, 2 baths, a 2car garage & screened lanai. $337,500 vacant or buy it fully furnished.

Welcome Robert Snively To The Snively Insurance Agency

Robert Snively recently joined Melissa Snively’s State Farm agency in Lithia as an o f ce sales associate. He will help with lead generation and management. He comes to the business with previous experience in the car sales industry and a Florida insurance property and casualty license. A Florida native, Robert grew up in the Bloomingdale/FishHawk area and graduated from Newsome High School. Snively State Farm Agency is located at 16209 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia. For information on the services o f ered, visit its website at www.melissarules.com or call 813662-3622.

Blu Indigo Spa & Wellness Celebrates New Owners With A Ribbon-cutting

Blu Indigo Spa & Wellness hosted a ribbon-cutting with the Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce to celebrate its new owners, Drs. Keith and Helen Tong, DNM. Located in the Sprouts plaza at 3339 Lithia Pinecrest

Rd. in Valrico, it o f ers a wide variety of spa, massage and wellness services, including IV, fillers and medical aesthetic services under the direction of Dr. Prudhvi Raja Karumanchi. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit https://bluindigospa.com/ or call 813-651-3258.

Jade Health Offers TED Hair Restoration Transepidermal delivery (TED) is a new treatment o f ered at Jade Health. It works without needles and is completely painless. TED uses ultrasound and air pressure to push the topical hairgrowth serum into dormant follicles. It improves blood flow to the scalp, which results in thicker, stronger hair. Anyone suf -

fering from hair loss who wants to improve the appearance of their hair is a great candidate. Jade Health is located at 10730 Ketchum Valley Dr. in Riverview. For additional information on services o f ered or to book a free consultation, visit its website at www. Jadetampa.com or call 813-741-3234.

La Septima Celebrating 28 Years Of Serving Delicious Food

Popular family-owned restaurant, La Septima first started in February 1995 and is now celebrating its 28-year anniversary. Owned by the Fernandez family, the unfussy restaurant has become a staple in the community for serving its delicious Cuban-fusion cuisine

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE BACK SECTION

and recently for its amazing $39.95 family meals. La Septima is located at 702 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon in the La Viva Plaza. Visit its website at www.laseptimacafe.com or call 813-6850502 for additional details.

Olive And Grace Offers Custom Permanent Jewelry

Olive and Grace o f ers permanent, welded jewelry custom-sized to fit your wrist, neck or ankle. After selecting the chain, trained Olive and Grace sta f perfect the fit and weld the metal to create your clasp-free bracelet, necklace or anklet. Olive and Grace has appointments available at Karma Yoga and is also offering private parties, girls night outs, bachelorette

Campo Family YMCA in Valrico celebrates their newly renovated Youth Zone, sponsored by the GTE Financial Foundation, with a ribbon cutting. Te new, reimagined room has a fresh look with engaging activities.

Code Wiz FishHawk was excited to celebrate its opening alongside the Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce with a ribbon-cutting on January 27.

Cardinal Roofng recently celebrated a ribbon cutting for their new ofce in Valrico located at 3108 Barkley Ln. Visit their website at www.cardinalroofng f.com for more information on meeting your roofng needs.

parties, birthdays and more. To book an appointment, visit its website at www.oliveandgracefl.com or call owner Ashly Thielke at 813-6036865.

D-BAT South Shore Offers Top-notch Sports Training

D-BAT South Shore in Ruskin was recently purchased by Cono and Cecelia Liguori and is the area’s premier indoor baseball, softball and all-sport athletic training facility. It has multiple pitching machines, batting cages and pitching lanes for personal or team use. Its instructors o f er top-notch sport training with today’s professional-grade tech to individuals and groups. The pro shop is stocked with the newest baseball and softball gear and apparel. D-BAT South Shore also runs both skilled and fun camps, birthday and office parties. D-BAT South Shore is located at 351 30th St. NE in Ruskin, for more information visit its website at https:// dbatsouthshore.com/ or call 813-645-3228.

Dr. Joonie’s Examinavan Recognized

June Bryant, APRN, owner of Dr. Joonie’s Examinavan, will be presenting at the 44th annual National Association

By Jenny Bennett

of Pediatric Nurse Prac-

titioners

(NAPNAP) in Orlando on Thursday, March 16 in the Practice Innovation podium presentation about the mobile van concept. She will also be recognized at the event as an emerging leader for being the Florida Gulf Coast Chapter president. Dr. Joonie’s Examinavan brings individualized health care to your doorstep; to find out more about it, visit www.drjoonies. com or call 813-551-3399.

Repco Pest Control Offers Commercial And Home Services

Repco Lawn & Ornamental Pest Control has been providing residential and commercial pest control services for over 25 years. It is dedicated to providing a great service that protects your property from roaches, ants, rodents, termites and more. Call Repco on 813854-5412 or visit its website at www.repcopest. com for additional information.

CARDINAL ROOFING HOSTS CLAY SHOOT FUNDRAISER FOR MY WARRIOR’S PLACE

Cardinal Roofing is hosting its ninth annual Clay Shoot Fundraiser on Friday, April 14 at 11:30 am. Join in for a fun day of shooting sporting clay and help raise money for My Warrior’s Place. My Warrior’s Place is a retreat center located in Ruskin that serves our veterans, military service members, law enforcement ofcers, firefighters as well as Gold Star, Blue Star and Silver Star families.

Additionally, My Warrior’s Place ofers several amazing programs for those who have put their life on the line, endured the death of a fallen warrior and/or experienced the horrors of war. Each program it ofers plays an important role in the healing and coping process, along with the ongoing support that is desperately needed.

According to Bridget Wilson, Cardinal Roofing president, giving back to the community and a local grassroots nonprofit that supports local veterans is so important. “It’s our way to shout our love of community by spending our time and efort to bring awareness of grassroots veterans’ charities,” said Wilson. “We donated to My Warrior’s Place last year for the first time to help get their dog kennels built to house the service animals of vet-

By Kelly Wise Valdes

erans who need them cared for during their own medical care.”

This year’s event is expected to raise $10K for A Warrior’s Place.

“I love the camaraderie of the event,” said Wilson. “We welcome all shooters, from beginners to advanced. We also love when other roofing companies come to shoot. Our industry is full of huge hearts, and it’s a great way to get our community together. Everyone is welcomed regardless of ability and skill.”

The event will also include rafes, an auction and great food. There are many local sponsors for the event this year, as there have been in past years. Jenifer Breaux with Dream Vacations is this year’s lunch sponsor. Other sponsors include Chick-fil-A of Lake Brandon Village and Brandon South, JF Kicks and Phillips Creative, and there is room for additional sponsorship spots.

To register, call 813-689-7663 (ROOF) or visit www.girlroofer.com to purchase tickets or inquire about sponsorships. The event is taking place at FishHawk Sporting Clays, located at 13505 Hobson Simmons Rd. in Lithia. For more information about My Warrior’s Place, visit www.mywarriorsplace.org.

Cardinal Roofng is hosting a fun-day of clay shooting, rafes, an auction and lunch to raise money for My Warrior’s Place.

CUSTOM HAIR HELPS CUSTOMERS REGAIN CONFIDENCE AFTER HAIR LOSS

Things often get ‘hairy’ at Custom Hair Tampa Bay, but for this business that’s precisely the goal.

Owned by Dan and Lori Younkman, Custom Hair Tampa Bay ofers nonsurgical solutions for men and women with hair loss as a result of male and female-pattern baldness, chemotherapy, transplants and burn scars, alopecia, autoimmune diseases and other hair loss conditions.

Located at 117 N. Kings Ave. in Brandon, solutions that the Younkmans ofer include 100 percent Remy human hair wigs, toppers and custom hair solutions for men and women. Expert staf members are available to assist clients in choosing from its selection of wigs or one of its hair systems.

“We’re here to advise you every step of the way and walk you through the entire process,” said Lori, who is not just the owner but also a customer.

She understands exactly how a thick head of hair can restore confidence.

Customers meet with technicians in private consultation rooms where their heads are measured, hair color and texture are matched and hair systems are created to make each person look their best.

Hair replacement systems are lightweight, breathable and secure thanks to the surgical-grade adhesive that holds the

By Michelle Caceres

hair in place for four to six weeks.

“Wake up every morning with hair,” said Lori. “Wash it, swim with it and just live your life.”

Her favorite part of the process is when the hair system comes in and customers see the total transformation.

For Apollo Beach resident Jim Klein, his new hair has given him increased self-confidence. “I have the hair I used to have and look so much younger,” he said.

Brandon resident and longtime customer Susan Saylors, whose hair started thinning as a result of lupus, echoed Klien about the increased self-confidence from her hair replacement system.

“Stylists at Custom Hair have given me long hair, shorter hair, have changed the color,” said Saylors. “What’s great is it’s such a high quality that nobody knows it’s not my own hair unless I tell them.”

Custom Hair Tampa Bay has been helping customers enjoy long, thick and healthy hair worthy of a Pantene commercial for more than 50 years.

Custom Hair Tampa Bay is open Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

For more information, visit www.customhairtampabay.com or call 813-6519484.

One of the great features of owning a home in the Tampa Bay area for many residents is the ability to have year-round use of an installed swimming pool. But what happens after construction of a family aquatic attraction is completed and the pumps, filters and other equipment associated with a pool need to operate smoothly?

If Edge Pools is responsible for maintaining your pool, probably nothing. That’s because Edge Pools does more than clean the sludge and slime that can turn a pristine pool into a cement swamp. Whether it involves routine cleaning and chemical treatment of the water or maintenance and repair of the equipment that keeps it flowing and circulating, Edge Pools has the state-licensed and industry-trained experts to complete a job with the goal of meeting or exceeding customer expectations.

For Eddie Edgerton, who co-owns Edge Pools with his wife, Heidi, servicing pools is a calling that came early in his youth with a job on a pool construction crew, and as he explains on the Edge Pools website, “I loved it the day I started.” Combining enthusiasm for the work with ongoing technical training that ranges from understanding pool

By Brad Stager

chemistry to rebuilding pumps or diving in to repair cracks has enabled the couple to grow their business and envision a future that eventually includes designing and building custom pools. Heidi attributes their success in part to being accountable to their customers.

“We like to be honest, fair. It’s not always about the money,” said Heidi. She added that they get a lot of professional satisfaction by solving problems, some of which keep the job interesting, especially when water and electricity are in close proximity to each other. “We see a lot of crazy stuf,” she said.

One of the things Edge Pools ofers is a program to start of a new pool right with an ongoing maintenance program that can keep a new or established pool ready for family fun.

To learn more about services provided by Edge Pools and even get a quote to take care of a pool maintenance or repair need, visit online at https://edgepoolsfl.com/ or the Edge Pools Facebook page. You can also call 813-230-2838 or send an email to edgepoolservice@gmail.com.

Care partners of those with any type of memory loss, whether family, friends or professionals, need to be equipped with the knowledge to best support their loved one.

Gain

Hybrid

Owned by Dan and Lori Younkman, Custom Hair Tampa Bay ofers nonsurgical solutions for men and women with hair loss.

A swimming pool can be a backyard oasis if properly maintained.

Te diference between a properly maintained pool or spa and one that isn’t can be strikingly obvious.

VETERAN-OWNED HOME SECURITY COMPANY OFFERS FREE CONSULTATIONS

Martin Security is a home security company dedicated to meeting their customers’ needs and budget. It was started in September of 2020 and is owned by military veteran Richard Martin and his wife, Vanessa Martin.

Richard served in the military for 24 years in the army before retiring in 2012. He started his career as a radar repairman before being deployed to Saudi Arabia and Iraq until 1991. Richard transitioned to 97B Counterintelligence and was deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan and Qatar.

During his service time, he was awarded the Bronze Star, Joint Service Commendation Award, Army Commendation Medal and Army Achievement Medal. Richard also earned campaign medals for Desert Shield/Storm, Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.

After retiring from the military, he began working as a contractor in CENTCOM at MacDill Air Force Base but was traveling to Qatar throughout the year. When COVID-19 canceled his overseas travel, he realized all the traveling he was doing for work was taking a toll on him.

“He loves what he does and wanted to learn the residential side of the alarm systems, so he went to work for a large com-

By Lily Belcher

pany. After working for them and learning the job, he decided we could do a better job taking care of the customers with more options and saving them money,” explained Vanessa.

Martin Security is owned and operated solely by Richard and Vanessa, but they were able to serve over 100 customers in 2022.

Through Martin Security, Richard and Vanessa are able to listen to the individual needs of their customers. They also ofer a 10 percent discount for military and first responders as well as a recycling program for any equipment they cannot use.

“Making sure our clients are happy with their install and knowing we are helping them protect what matters most to them [is the most rewarding part],” said Vanessa. “We like to educate people and make sure they have a number of options available to them.”

In addition to their camera installation service, customers can choose a monthly monitoring system that includes a burglar alarm and video.

To get an estimate or free consultation, visit Martin Security’s website at martinsecurityservices.com or call 813-3526398.

As the sixth member in his immediate family to battle cancer, Craig Beckinger is going to bat for those in a similar fight for their lives as he campaigns for Visionary of the Year for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) for the north Florida region.

The candidate who raises the most money for LLS from now through Friday, May 5 earns the title.

“My mom and maternal grandmother survived cancer and my maternal grandfather and paternal grandparents died from cancer, so dealing with cancer was nothing new for me,” Beckinger said. “But when I got diagnosed with cancer, I couldn’t say a word. I was just so scared.”

Diagnosed in August 2017 with highgrade B-cell lymphoma, Beckinger in December celebrated Christmas with his mother and her mother, who at age 104 stands as a warrior who battled two cancers.

“Too often after diagnosis people fear the worst,” Beckinger said. “I was there, and I can tell you, without the right mindset, the odds are against you. I chose hope and faith, and to focus on living my life regardless of the challenges faced in my cancer battle. I learned from others, and I hope to be an in-

By Linda Chion

spiration to others in return.”

Beckinger faced life-altering news as well in 2010, when his partner of 14 years, Kimberly John Schave, died from complications from diabetes. Beckinger four years later quit his job at Darden Restaurants to launch his own business, ABC Event Planning.

“I realized with Kim’s passing that life is short, it’s time to do what I love doing,” Beckinger said. “Kim was very involved helping others and supporting causes. He would be extremely happy that I’m stepping up for LLS.”

According to LLS, more than 1.2 million people are living with or in remission from lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, myeloma and leukemia, which is the number one most diagnosed form of childhood cancer.

For more on Craig’s Champions for a Cure Team, call Beckinger at 561-876-6845. Fundraising events include drag queen bingo at The Regent in Riverview on Thursday, April 20 and a fashion show at Eddie V’s Prime Seafood Restaurant in Tampa on Saturday, April 22.

Richard and Vanessa Martin own Martin Security and served over 100 customers last year.

Photos courtesy of Craig Beckinger. Craig Beckinger, left, with family members celebrating Christmas in December 2022.

Cancer survivor Craig Beckinger.

HILLSBOROUGH COMMUNITY COLLEGE WELCOMES TWO NEW BRANDON CAMPUS DEANS Staf Report

The Hillsborough Community College (HCC) Brandon campus is pleased to announce the hiring of Dr. Simone B. Jenkins as dean of Associate in Science programs and Nestor Melendez as dean of student services. Both deans assumed their new position at HCC on January 4.

“Dr. Jenkins cares deeply about providing a high-quality education to all students, building modern workforce programs and thinking creatively with an entrepreneurial spirit. Her focus and experience on workforce programming will help propel the Brandon campus forward,” said Dr. Deborah Kish Johansen, Brandon campus president.

“Dean Nestor is passionate about student success and brings a wealth of experience in student advocacy and support to HCC, the Brandon campus and the Greater Tampa community,” Dr. Johansen said. “We are excited for him to bring this passion to the Brandon campus.”

Dr. Jenkins started her career in education as a classroom teacher for the Hillsborough County School District in 2005. At HCC, she has served in a variety of roles, such as college and career counselor and academic advisor at the Ybor City campus, assistant dean of Associate in Science programs as

R PROCESSOR OFFERS AFFORDABLE MERCHANT PROCESSING SERVICES

By Makenzie Atkins

well as interim dean of Associate in Science programs at the Dale Mabry campus.

She is a graduate of the University of South Florida, where she received her Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction with an emphasis in career and workforce education, as well as her master’s and bachelor’s degrees.

Nestor Melendez, Ed.S. brings over two decades of experience in higher education to HCC. His extensive professional background includes a progression of leadership positions, such as assistant dean of student afairs and enrollment management at Pasco-Hernando State College, director of student leadership and campus life at Guttman Community College and director of student leadership and engagement at Hofstra University.

Hillsborough Community College serves more than 42,000 students annually at its five campuses located throughout Tampa Bay. For more information, visit www.hccfl. edu.

HCC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). For more information, visit www.hccfl. edu/about-us/college-accreditation.

When starting a new business, there are many puzzle pieces that need to be put together in order to create something successful. While some decisions might be difcult, choosing the right system for your merchant processing is now easier than ever.

Using Rich Rohde’s merchant processing service, R Processor Inc., gives you access to many diferent opportunities. Rohde ofers point of sales, mobile payments, electronic gift cards and EMV terminals. When you use R Processor, the company will also handle the purchase adjustments and chargebacks, interact with a fulfillment company, and give you real-time reporting of your credit card sales.

Rich Rohde’s merchant processing service, R Processor Inc., is passionate about maintaining a relationship with its clients and strives to give clients the best.

Rohde’s merchant processing services can ofer competitive benefits to choosing its service over others. While many companies may be able to ofer similar services, R Processor takes it one step further. Not only do you gain an easyto-use system when choosing to go with R Processors’ services, but you are also gaining a friend who is ready to help you succeed.

R Processor works hard to continue to connect with its customers in a way other companies do not. Rohde, as the owner of R Processor, takes pride in building a

relationship with people like himself, businessmen and women.

Rohde has been in the industry for over 34 years and has seen what systems are needed to smoothly run a business. This is just one reason why R Processor is an easy choice when looking for merchant processing systems.

“We are a veteran-owned Florida corporation providing handson personal care,” said Rohde.

“Because the business is individually owned, we can eliminate any long-term contracts and guarantee rates for lengthy periods.”

Rhode’s merchant processing currently services many businesses in the community, including Idlewild Baptist Church and The Green Boutique.

Merchant processing is the system in which payment is received by a company from its customers. It is important to have a system which you can rely on to get the job done and keep customer information safe. Rohde wants to help business owners to aford a system that can be trusted, and he is passionate about helping entrepreneurs like him.

For more information, contact Rohde at 813-405-5210, email rich@richrohde. com or visit https://richrohde.com/.

Dr. Simone B. Jenkins is the new dean of Associate in Science programs.

Nestor Melendez is the new dean of student services.

When that dreaded check-engine light comes on or your windshield wipers aren’t working like they used to, it can be a pain trying to find a reliable auto shop to help you find a solution.

NAPA Auto Parts in Riverview makes the process easier with team members who are experienced and ready to help get your car back on the road and running better than before.

“Our team strives for a better customer service experience and pushes each other to go above and beyond for our customers,” said Joshua Figueroa, store manager at NAPA’s Riverview location.

NAPA ofers free battery, starter and alternator testing as well as help with finding the parts you need in its stores. Each team member at NAPA is qualified in the industry and can help select the right parts, from windshield wipers to brakes, depending on your car and what you need. NAPA also carries tools and equipment for cars, boats, heavy-duty trucks, RVs and tractors. You will find great deals at NAPA on filters, antifreeze, batteries and more

By Makenzie Atkins

in-store and online.

NAPA Auto Parts also prides itself in supporting students who are fighting for education within Future Farmers of America (FFA), Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) and SkillsUSA.

NAPA was started in 1925 when a group of auto parts sellers met and formed the National Automotive Parts Association. This led to many NAPA stores and warehouses owned by diferent members of the association. Carlyle Fraser, founder of Genuine Parts Company, began to acquire the NAPA stores and quickly became the industry standard for quality parts and knowledgeable staf

Today, NAPA stores continue to ofer parts and services from team members who are not only knowledgeable but also passionate about helping others learn more about their cars.

To learn more please contact Figueroa at Joshua_Figueroa@napastore.com, visit the store at 9620 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Riverview or check out the website at https:// www.napaonline.com/.

Kennedie Clinton was crowned queen of the 88th Florida Strawberry Festival at the annual pageant on January 21.

Clinton was selected from a field of 24 contestants. Jaida Davis was chosen first maid along with court members Addison Raburn, Fe Ramirez and Kaleigh Salmon.

“I’m so excited. This is such an amazing opportunity to represent my community,” said Clinton. “I’m so honored. I’m so blessed. Words can’t describe how I’m feeling right now. I’m on cloud nine.”

Clinton is the daughter of Michael and Michelle Engle. She is currently a junior at Durant High School. Clinton serves as a member of National Honor Society, National Arts Honor Society, National English Honor Society and the Durant Theatre Company. She plans to pursue a career in law or physics to become either a criminal defense attorney or astrophysicist.

The Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s Competition is organized by the Plant City Lions Club and is composed of five facets of competition: a personal interview, on-stage speaking, casual wear, evening wear and an impromptu question.

“Tonight was a very exciting night,” said Florida Strawberry Festival President Elect Kyle Robinson.

“The judges did an outstanding job of selecting a group of sweet, intelligent and well-spoken young ladies. The previous queen and court held a high standard, but I’m confident this court will be up to the challenge and make us proud.”

Throughout the year, the queen and court make over 80 appearances as they represent the Florida Strawberry Festival and the Plant City community. They can be seen at festival events throughout the grounds and at community events throughout the year.

The Florida Strawberry Festival also crowned the winners of its annual Junior Royalty pageant earlier this month at the Grimes Family Agricultural Center on the festival grounds.

One hundred and twenty registered contestants from 5-15 years old competed in four categories according to their ages: baroness, duchess, princess and queen, respectively. From the top five finalists in each category, a first maid and a winner were chosen.

Madelynn Marie Hardwick was selected as Junior Royalty Queen, Giselle Elena McDowell was chosen as Junior Royalty Princess, Olivia Pilar McDowell was chosen as Junior Royalty Duchess and Aubrey Sweeney was chosen as Junior Royalty Baroness.

“Once again, we have an outstanding group of girls to represent our festival,” said Florida Strawberry Festival President Paul Davis. “We couldn’t be more proud of our girls, our families and this community. We are truly blessed.”

The Junior Royalty winners will represent the Florida Strawberry Festival throughout the year, making appearances at events and in the annual Plant City Christmas Parade and Grand Parade during the festival.

NAPA ofers personalized care in-store and online, just choose your make and model and start shopping.

Photo courtesy of the Florida Strawberry Festival.

2023 Strawberry Festival Queen and Court, from left to right: Court

Member Fe Ramirez, First Maid Jaida Davis, Queen Kennedie Clinton, Court Member Addison Raburn and Court Member Kaleigh Salmon.

Photo courtesy of the Florida Strawberry Festival.

2023 Junior Royalty, from left to right: Baroness Aubrey Sweeney, Queen Madelynn Marie Hardwick, Princess Giselle Elena McDowell and Duchess Olivia Pilar McDowell.

VINE VEGAN OFFERS FOOD RICH WITH CULTURE AND FAMILY VALUES

Three years ago, Danielle Stevens and her family decided to go vegan. A family decision to eat healthily and work to save animals quickly turned into a passion, prompting Stevens to start a vegan restaurant in Brandon.

Vine Vegan opened on December 1, 2022.

Stevens’ menu combines her passion for healthy, plant-based eating; bringing the community together; and creating dishes with a rich background of culture.

“I’m really excited to have a place where people can make memories with their families. … They get to do that in the comfort of a beautiful restaurant,” said Stevens.

Stevens was born and raised in America, but her mother is from England and her father was from South America. The Vine Vegan owner grew up in the kitchen creating flavorful dishes that honored all aspects of her heritage on the same menu.

“I kind of took things from all the different avenues of my life to come up with an eclectic menu that could satisfy anybody’s taste buds,” said Stevens.

The diverse menu of Vine Vegan includes comfort foods, superfood bowls, specialty lattes and other dishes for all customers. Stevens said around 65 percent of her customers are not vegan but come to enjoy the flavorful, healthy foods

By Lily Belcher

ofered in her store.

Vine Vegan was originally scheduled to open on Veteran’s Day in 2022 to honor Stevens’ father, who served as a colonel in the army. However, an issue with the hood system two days before its grand opening delayed the opening three weeks.

In October of 2019, Stevens’ father died of heart disease despite a healthy and active lifestyle.

Stevens saw a documentary called The Game Changers and saw the benefits of plant-based eating. With her family, they decided to start eating vegan to reduce their own chances of getting heart disease and increase their life span.

Now, Stevens and her 17 employees serve the Brandon community every day by providing a comfortable, homely atmosphere and good food for all guests.

Vine Vegan is located at 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon of Brandon Parkway.

To view the menu or sign up for the newsletter, visit https://vinevegan.com/. For more information, call 813-939-8463 or email eat@vinevegan.com.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY’S SUNSHINE LINE IS A BEACON OF HOPE FOR THOSE WHO LACK ACCESS TO TRANSPORTATION

Hillsborough County’s Sunshine Line provides reliable transportation solutions so that the county’s most vulnerable residents get to where they need so they can lead active, self-reliant and independent lives. This includes transportation to doctor’s appointments, banks, grocery stores and more.

Sunshine Line is a county department that provides transportation service for residents with disabilities or those who meet certain eligibility criteria. The three criteria are that you must be 60 years old or older, meet the income eligibility of 150 percent of poverty level for any age or have a disability (also any age). In order to be served, there must be no access to a vehicle in the family.

If you have questions or want to receive services, you can call the call center at 813-272-7272 Monday to Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. It takes approximately one to two business days for eligibility to be verified and then you can start booking trips.

The Hillsborough County Sunshine Line is a shared-ride service. Trips must be prescheduled. Passengers are dropped of/ picked up based on the route the bus is taking. No trip is longer than 90 minutes.

Riders must reside more than three quarters of a mile from a bus route. HartPlus ofers a similar service for residents who live within three quarters of a mile of a bus stop.

Jerry Stickney, Sunshine Line opera-

By Kathy L. Collins

tions manager, said, “If you know of someone who would benefit from the service, have them contact us. Our focus is on finding transportation solutions for those in need. If we

RAYMOND JAMES POPS

Wild West Apr 15 & 16

RAYMOND JAMES POPS

Apr 29 & 30

cannot help, we will help point you to someone who can.”

The Sunshine Line concept was started over 30 years ago. It was originally known as Share a Van, in which county staf used their own personal vehicles to drive clients to appointments. Now, more than 30 years later, the Sunshine Line is a robust and sophisticated agency with 69 vehicles and 65 drivers. The Sunshine Line covers all 1,050 square miles of Hillsborough County.

Stickney said, “Sunshine Line drivers often have the same route and forge a bond with their clients. For the clients, the Sunshine Line drivers are a friendly face that they look forward to seeing.”

To get started, call 813-272-7272.

Danielle Stevens opened Vine Vegan in December 2022.

Michael Francis, Music Director

FAMILY FOUNDATION MASTERWORKS

Te Hillsborough County Sunshine Line transports residents who meet certain eligibility re-quirements and who lack access to transportation so that they can live full and engaging lives.

VALRICO FISHHAWK CHAMBER CELEBRATES 10 YEARS, ISSUES BUSINESS AWARDS, SELECTS ‘CHARITY OF CHOICE’

The Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce (VFCC) at its annual meeting presented awards as board members took their oath and a newly named nonprofit became the chamber’s 2023 fundraising focus.

In recognizing the VFCC’s 10-year anniversary, Elijah Heath, chairman of the board, presented an award of appreciation to Michael Holmes for his “ongoing commitment and dedication” to the chamber founded in 2012. Without Holmes’ leadership, Heath said, “We would not all be here today.”

Holmes presided over the chamber’s first meeting as the group’s founder and president. In a 2012 news report, Holmes said it was time to “push the needle,” noting that local business owners needed “foot traffic, access to our businesses and more sales in the cash registers.”

The chamber’s growth can be measured in part by the ballroom crowd at the January 27 annual meeting at The Regent in Riverview.

“This has been an incredibly successful event and I so appreciate all the businesses and people who participated and contributed,” said Patti Sutherland of QuiAri, the chamber’s president. “We have some big goals this year for the fastest-growing chamber in Eastern Hillsborough County, the Valrico FishHawk Chamber.”

The dinner allowed for the recognition of A Caring Touch Skin Therapy, for which Rhonda McDaniel, vice president of the VFCC, took home the award for Small-sized Business of Year, for operations with up to four employees. Shannon Keil, president and chief executive officer of The Regent in Riverview, ac -

cepted the award for Medium-sized Business of Year.

In the large business category, Hi-Tech Automotive received the award for enterprises with at least 10 employees.

Board mem -

ber Erica Jourdain, chair of the VFCC Shop Local committee, was named the chamber’s Ambassador of the Year. Meanwhile, Bill and Angie Kagey of the Impact Program received a check for $14,675.19. As

By Linda Chion

the chamber’s 2022 Charity of Choice, the Kageys’ Impact Program received proceeds from annual chamber fundraisers, including the newly instituted kickball event. The Impact Program promotes healthy lifestyles and relationships for teens.

The Charity of Choice for 2023 is Faces of Courage, a cancer patient support organization that runs annual camps for women and children at Rotary’s Camp Florida in Brandon. Programming for men is set to begin this year as well.

Also at the annual dinner, highlights of chamber life were reviewed, including the VFCC Shop Local Holiday Expo, ribbon-cuttings, Midday Power Hour Networking, Business After Hours, general assembly meetings and the VFCC University schedule of 90-minute, grow-your-business classes for members and nonmembers.

Joining Heath, Sutherland, McDaniel and Jourdain on the 2023 VFCC Board of Directors are Jerry Rothstein, chairman of the board-elect; Sara Battaglia, secretary; Kevin Suba, treasurer; Kim Ruiz, ambassador chair; Brodie Gonzalez, awards and recognition chair; Kelly Anderson, Business After Hours chair; Amy Fabian, back-to-school chair; Denise Olson, general assembly chair; Brian Porter, Midday Power Hour chair; Carolyn Clarke, ribbon-cutting chair; Mechelle Thursby, VFCCU chair; and Kathy Vircik, VFCC administrative assistant. For more information, visit the chamber’s website at www.valricofishhawk. org. The chamber is located at 3115 Lithia Pinecrest

in Valrico. To reach it, call 813-324-7902.

Rd.

Impact was 2022 President’s Choice winner for charity of the year.

Charity Business of the Year — Small but Mighty Heroes.

VFCC 2023 board members.

Business of the Year (small, one to four employees) — Rhonda McDaniel with A Caring Touch Skin Terapy.

Business of the Year (medium, fve to nine employees) — Te Regent.

Business of the Year (large, 10-plus employees) — HiTech Automotive.

Manny Polizzi, founder of Home Service Heroes, was honored with the Spotlight Business of the Year award.

3513 Bell Shoals Rd, Valrico, FL, United States, Florida (813) 643-0335

INTEGRITY, HONESTY & CUSTOMERS

FIRST AT TAX HAPPENS CPA

Theresa Turner owns Tax Happens in Riverview, a “unique boutique-style CPA firm” ofering personalized tax and accounting services to small businesses and individuals, with an emphasis on ‘honesty’ and ‘integrity.’

“Calm and tranquil office, that’s what we’re going for,” said Turner, a certified public accountant (CPA), in describing the boutique descriptor. “Dim lighting and spa music playing, I feel like I should be coming in for a massage; it’s so relaxing.”

Yet for many people, taxes are anything but relaxing. Rather, a stressful event, and especially so when deadlines pass and uncertainties are abound.

“Some people are absolutely terrified and put of their taxes for years,” Turner said. “Something has scared them, usually a life event. Once they meet with us, they get the idea that we know what we’re doing and we’re looking out for their best interests.”

Not an option is bending or breaking the rules, Turner said.

“When I worked in the public accounting realm, I found there were a lot of unethical people,” Turner said. “If you do a tax return wrong, odds are no one will know because the chances of audits are so slim, statistically speaking. But just because you can do something wrong and get away with it doesn’t mean you should do it.”

Expect “complete, accurate returns” at Tax

By Linda Chion

Happens, Turner said. “We’re not pushing an agenda. We’re not trying to get away with anything. Doing what’s legal, I can defend my clients against the IRS if they’re audited.”

For Turner, “hands-on accounting” is key, noting that clients often come in without everything they need, which leads to further questions, and possibly overlooked deductions and taxable events. Supporting your grandmother? She counts as a dependent. Sending your son, under age 13, to summer camp while you go to work? That counts as a child-care credit. Selling items on eBay? Taxable. “And the stock plan at work you didn’t realize you had to report, even though you didn’t take it out?” Turner added. “They didn’t know it was a taxable event until years later when an audit comes.”

Turner’s first tax season out of college was during 9/11 as an employee sitting at a desk. “I was in New York, three days away from deadline,” Turner said. Fast forward to 2021 and the onset of the coronavirus pandemic and Turner gives further insight into her work ethic.

“I had more work to do but less people who could pay their fees,” Turner said. “But I had clients for years and I wasn’t going to let them down because they didn’t have money during COVID. It was a very emotional time.”

Tax Happens is at 10018 Park Place Ave. in Riverview. For more information, call 813603-2073 or visit www.taxhappens.com.

This is the time of year we have been waiting for the last three months. The grasses will be reestablishing on the flats, the bait will be returning to the flats and the target species we yearn to catch will be in prime feeding mode. Snook will be coming in season, trout will be finding the grass flats, snapper will return and Spanish mackerel will follow. The low-quantity catches will be followed by many 40 to 60-fish days and the bay will once again be alive — if the winds agree.

The grasses in the bay will begin to regain their foothold within the bay and all the above mentioned will be at the anglers’ grasps for ample numbers of catches once again. It is the seasonality of things in the bay. As the grasses grow, the greenies will begin their transition back to the flats for their annual spawn activities. The trout will follow them back in, along with the shallow-water snapper. The snook will be posting back out on the exterior point of all the passes and tributaries from the backwater winter haunts.

Cobia may be found creeping around on the flats or beginning to hang on the cans, nuns, buoys and posts around Tampa Bay. Be ever weary of the tripletail on the deeper water structures. Large or jumbo shrimp are the best baits for these fish, especially when sight-fished.

Kingfish will start to migrate into the areas as the water temps begin to climb. These fish are much closer to the shore this time of year and can sometimes be caught just outside the Skyway Bridge. Sabiki up some live blue runners or large threadfins and troll very slowly on a stinger rig. Anywhere from the Skyway to the Whistle Buoy, marker 1 of the Egmont or Tampa Bay channel.

This is such an amazing time of year to be on the water, but be aware of the wind potential during March. It can be very hairy at times but yield some wonderful days on the water. The rule of thumb is to make a plan for fishing the day but always have a contingency.

When scouting for trout, please try and use the plastic artificial baits. They maintain a much better survival percentage after release than live bait does. Not to mention the hook-up ration is much better with artificial bait.

This is a great time of year to try your prowess at fly-fishing since there is very minimal surface grasses to impede the movement of the fly. My normal set up is 8-weight fly gear with a green deceiver fly. You can purchase them or try your hand at tying your own.

Get on the water and see what makes Tampa Bay so special!

Tax Happens is a boutique style CPA frm ready to assist small businesses and individuals with personalized tax and accounting services.

Karen Simmermon with a snook

BY LYNN BARBER, FLORIDA-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPING™ AGENT

I love to mulch. It’s relaxing; I’m outdoors and can see immediate results of my labor. It’s multitasking too: mulching while thinking about installing microirrigation in a landscape bed, starting seeds, what to divide, relocate or conquer. Early morning, before the heat of the day, is a great time to add mulch to your landscape beds. Mulch is very beneficial. It retains moisture in the soil; suppresses weeds; adds nutrients to the soil as it decomposes, which improves soil structure; moderates soil temperature; reduces runo f and erosion from your yard; provides increased area for root growth; protects plants from lawnmowers and weed eaters; and enhances the beauty of your landscape.

Mulch can be organic or inorganic. Organic mulches include:

• Pine bark, a byproduct of the timber industry that has good color retention. Purchase the medium or small size as the large size tends to float away in a heavy rain.

• Pine straw, another timber industry byproduct that settles quickly.

• Eucalyptus, which is produced from Florida plantations, has a light reddish-brown color and minimal settling over time.

• Melaleuca, which has high termite resistance, almost no settling over time and is produced from an invasive, non-native tree.

• Oak leaves, a free source of mulch that has minimal settling over time and creates ‘self-mulching’ areas under trees.

Municipal yard waste will be available at county recycling facilities when they reopen.

The University of Florida (UF) does not recommend Cypress mulch because it’s not a renewable resource and harvesting destroys the habitat for native birds and animals.

Inorganic mulches include:

• Crushed shell, gravel and rock, which provide nice texture and color in landscape beds but don’t prevent weeds to the extent organic mulches prevent them. They reflect heat, preventing soil moisture loss.

• Recycled tire/rubber mulch, which lasts for a long time, can be quite costly and may contain high zinc levels in leachate that may harm plants (based on USDA research). Rubber mulch can be flammable, and there may be issues with using this because of stormwater runof and chemicals entering Tampa Bay.

What about termites? University of Florida research indicates termites may be present more frequently in mulched versus nonmulched areas; however, certain practices will help deter these critters: Leave space between plants and exterior walls, pull mulch 1 foot away from walls or apply mulch 1 inch thick near buildings to reduce moisture near foundations and apply no more than 1 inch of water per irrigation.

Mulch the entire landscape bed. Wood and bark mulches should be 3 inches deep after settling. Mulch newly set plants after they are planted and watered. Reapply mulch around established plants as needed to maintain the 3-inch depth. Pull mulch 2 inches away from stems to prevent rotting. When mulching under a tree, apply a 1-inch layer over the root ball if necessary, but keep the mulch at least 10 inches from the trunk. Improper mulching can cause trunk rot, cut of oxygen to the roots and in some trees it may cause stem girdling.

Enjoy the beautiful weather and spruce up your landscape beds at the same time. Happy mulching! For assistance with horticultural questions, contact your local County Extension ofce. Although our ofces may be closed, we are working from alternative locations. Remember to reduce, reuse, recycle and repeat. Be safe out there.

Apollo Beach resident Lea Manningham has announced the second annual Tea Party to benefit Girls of the World Inc., a local nonprofit organization she founded with the mission of serving girls from elementary to college to inspire and empower them to become their best selves.

The Tea Party is being hosted in honor of International Women’s Day and “to celebrate the strides made to achieve gender equality and empower women. This day will be filled with smiles, laughs and fun as we make cherishable memories,” states Girls of the World’s website.

It will be held on Saturday, March 4 from 1-4 p.m. The 2022 event was sold out, and 2023 tickets are available now, so be sure to get yours soon to make sure you aren’t left out. Tickets to the Tea Party cost $25 per person.

“This is also an occasion to celebrate Women’s History Month 2023. This fundraising event helps to keep Girls of the World in the black. Girls, grandmothers, mothers, aunts and interested women are invited to join us … at a local venue,” said Manningham.

Last year, this organization had 20 corporate supporters. So, the nonprofit

By Taylor Wells

asks that you please help keep this successful winning streak alive. You won’t want to miss out on the tea, light refreshments, 50/50 raffle, silent auction and great music.

To add more spice, K. Michele, a noted public speaker, author, entrepreneur and wealth consultant, will be the keynote speaker of the event. Join Girls of the World for a fun and empowering day.

In addition, sponsorship and vendor spots are available. There are three sponsor levels, which are $300 for a VIP table, $1,000 for food sponsors and $1,500 for presenting sponsors. Vendor spots are $150 each and will allow the vendors to promote themselves and receive a meal. The last day to sign up as a sponsor or vendor is two weeks before the event.

The Tea Party will be held on Saturday, March 4 from 1-4 p.m. in Southshore Falls at 5831 Cascade Falls Ln. in Apollo Beach. Girls of the World is located at 300 Frandorson Cir., Ste. 101 in Apollo Beach. To contact Girls of the World, call 813-810-1396. For more information, to purchase tickets or to register as a sponsor or vendor, visit www.girlsoftheworldinc.com.

A group of girls and women at Girls of the World’s frst annual Tea Party last year.

Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Valrico (Located in the SteinMart Plaza)

FORMER BLOOMINGDALE FOOTBALL AND BASEBALL GONNELLA STANDOUT TRANSFERS TO USF

Former Bloomingdale football and baseball standout Dominic Gonnella transferred to the University of South Florida (USF) football program in January. The running back played for North Dakota State the last three seasons. The transfer has two years of eligibility left to play in newly minted head coach Alex Golesh’s revamped ofense. Gonnella rushed for five touchdowns and 1,134 yards in his career for the Bison.

Gonnella was excited for the opportunity to play for USF’s brand-new coaching staf and thinks he can thrive and be explosive in the team’s spread ofense that’s similar to the one he played in at Bloomingdale. He’s also happy to be back in his hometown where the weather is much warmer than North Dakota. The dual-sport athlete relishes the opportunity to help lead the program back to prominence after the team’s struggles the past few seasons.

“I wanted a better chance to showcase my talents and really help impact the team,” said Gonnella. “A lot of the guys are hometown guys too, and I know we’re all looking to really flip it around and make this city poppin’ again and get people to

BRANDON AREA SENIOR AND HOSPICE PETS FIND CARE AT RESCUE GARDEN

By Nick Nahas

come out to the games.”

The star running back helped Bloomingdale to a 3313 overall record in his three seasons with the football program while leading the team in rushing. He was also instrumental in the baseball program winning its first district title since 2007 in 2018.

“Dom was a high-motor guy on the field. He was easily one of the most athletic guys I’ve had the pleasure of working with,” said Bloomingdale assistant baseball coach Austin Wilson. “His ability to make adjustments and move his body in space is what makes him so good.”

Gonnella is also pursuing a pro baseball career. He’s played for the Arizona Diamondbacks organization the past three years in the summer and during spring when he isn’t playing football. He said that he’s living the dream of trying to go pro in two diferent sports at the same time and hopes to be an all-star in both someday.

“It’s kind of what I’ve been planning to do my whole life,” he said. “I really just want to see how long I can make it or see if I can really make it to the next level and have a chance to really flourish. I want to try to be as great as I can possibly be.”

From their furry tail wags to their afectionate, albeit slobbery, kisses, it may seem next to impossible that our faithful canine friends sometimes struggle to find a loving home. Unfortunately, this reality becomes even more likely for injured and elderly pets in shelters.

Seeking to change that, Rescue Garden is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2017 that delivers both veterinary care and a comfortable home for senior and hospice pets in Brandon. Primarily geared toward assisting dogs, the rescue works with local animal shelters such as the Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center and the Humane Society of Tampa Bay to provide companionship for animals deemed unadoptable.

“Rescue Garden is an important piece of the puzzle to help Brandon-area pets,” said Jona Bumstead, president and founder of Rescue Garden. “Our work benefits both the animal shelters and the pets in our community, as well as the people living here.”

Becoming a nonprofit in 2020, veterinary care provided to pets ranges from medication and supplements to surgeries. If the health of these pets improves, they can eventually be adopted.

These rescues spend most of their time in the care of Bumstead in her home, alongside occasional help from foster homes. Typically housing between three and seven pets at a given time, presently, Rescue Garden has four dogs in its care: Jameson, a 12-year-old chihuahua; Juliet (afectionately nicknamed JJ), a 12-year-old golden retriever; Timmy, a 12-year-old schnauzer mix; and Emi Rose, a

By Madeline Gardner

13-year-old Yorkie terrier, who has just recently been adopted.

To keep supporting these pooches, Rescue Garden is hosting an upcoming quarter auction at 12 Noon on Sunday, March 5. There is no RSVP required, and those interested can purchase quarters on-site to participate. This event will be held at TAT Civic Association Inc., located at 3210 Darlington Rd. in Holiday.

Rescue Garden also hosts various fundraisers throughout the year, including its annual Puppy Picasso event on social media, which viewers can watch as pets decorate items with colorful paw prints; last year, bookmarks were painted and then sold for donations. Usually hosted in October, the annual Pearls for Pups fundraiser pairs with Pearls for Pups Co. to sell handmade pearl earrings, the proceeds of which will go toward Rescue Garden.

The rescue is also currently finishing the construction of a cottage for the pets complete with air-conditioning, heat and electricity, a project Bumstead cites as the beginning of creating more spaces for the community to become involved.

“I envision building even more cottages in the future that our community can actively come and volunteer at and enjoy time with the dogs,” said Bumstead.

For more information, visit its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/RescueGarden, its Instagram page @Rescue_Garden or its Stay Connected page at https://linktr.ee/ rescue_garden. For more details, email rescuegardeninc@gmail.com.

Photo courtesy of USF Athletics.

Dominic Gonnella with his parents, Rachel and Joe, on his ofcial visit to USF.

Rescue Garden President and founder Jona Bumstead declared Juliet (JJ) a permanent resident after rescuing the golden retriever in 2017.

Paul and Gina Kuzemka, local owners of Action Karate in River Hills Plaza, started their business in their garage with the goal of teaching life lessons through martial arts with experienced instructors.

Paul trained in the art of karate as a child, and after experiencing job loss in 2020, Paul knew he needed a fresh start and fresh approach to his career — and life. With over 30 years of corporate experience in retail operations, the Kuzemkas also knew they wanted to own a business that would positively impact the community and create a safe space for its members. Action Karate, with a philosophy to not just teach karate but also to build confidence for all ages and abilities, checked all of those boxes.

“We teach life lessons at Action Karate — hard work, leadership, discipline, confidence, character development, independence and perseverance,” Paul said.

The Kuzemkas started in their garage with their first student, who enrolled in October 2021. As enrollment grew and they became known in and beyond their neighborhood, they knew it was time for growth into a larger space. They found space to get started in July 2022 and expanded into their current space in October 2022. As they grow their studio, the Kuzemkas also stressed the importance of giving back to the community. Partnering with local food bank Seeds of

FREEDOM PLAZA OFFERS AN ACTIVE, STRESS-FREE LIFESTYLE FOR RESIDENTS

By Lily Belcher

By Ariana Pedraza

Hope fosters that mentality within the dojo, as Seeds of Hope relies on student volunteers.

“We are a drop-of spot, volunteer and encourage volunteers, and we also partnered with them for their annual Turkey Trot,” explained Paul.

In their free time, Gina enjoys cooking and Paul loves to golf. With extended family in the area, the Kuzemkas know they will always be connected to their community, and as they continue to grow, their community involvement strengthens as well.

As a locally owned dojo teaching American-based Kempo-style karate, Action Karate stands out with its emphasis on providing comfortable, energetic and educational lessons in order to help students not only learn karate but build life skills, confidence and friendships too.

“We change lives for a living,” said Paul. Action Karate is located in River Hills Plaza at 4365 Lynx Paw Trl. in Valrico. Classes are ofered for all children ages 3 and up, and for adults as well. Classes can be in a group or private setting and include consideration and adaptability for special-needs students. Every instructor has undergone a background check and is CPR certified. Ac tion Karate also hosts birthday parties and other events and celebrations. Call 813-6092376 or email actionkaratefl@gmail.com.

LOCALLY OWNED ACTION KARATE WORKS TO DEVELOP STUDENTS IN BOTH KARATE AND LIFE up t sha

Freedom Plaza is an active, stress-free and independent living community for senior and retired residents in the Tampa area. The retirement community is located in Sun City Center with the on-campus Freedom Fairways Golf Course and Tennis Club, along with a range of engaging activities.

Residents can fill their day with a blend of indoor and outdoor fitness activities, from walking the nature trail to taking fitness classes to playing pickleball with their neighbors. To support the healthy lifestyle of residents, Freedom Plaza ofers six dining rooms and full-size kitchens if seniors want to cook for themselves.

“Some will hop on a bus to enjoy one of the many excursions that Freedom Plaza ofers. The calendar of opportunities is too full to list. Many residents enjoy visiting in the pub prior to having a wonderful chef-prepared dinner in one of the many dining rooms,” said marketing and sales coordinator Tifany Hernandez.

Residents have a number of living options, from small apartments to studios up to 1827 square feet. Families are encouraged to visit and stay with their loved ones in the apartments or book a guest room for a small cost.

The retirement community was founded by the Retired Ofcers’ Corporation to ofer a stress-free and supportive lifestyle. Since being founded in the late 1980s, the support needed by seniors has evolved. Now, employees support residents in using technology and online resources readily available in the modern world. Through this flexible and adapting support, Freedom Plaza prevents its residents from being ‘lost in the progress.’ Freedom Plaza serves approximately 600 residents in varying levels of care and employes around 480 staf to support their residents. An EMT is located on-site 24/7 and 365 days a year.

“Freedom Plaza is the only community home to an organization like the Retired Ofcers’ Corporation. Many communities ofer the same services, but there is generally an additional charge,” said Hernandez.

Entrance fees for Freedom Plaza’s independent living starts at $101,000, but seniors can contact a community representative to learn more.

For more information on Freedom Plaza, visit its website at https://freedomplazafl.com/ or call 813-280-5009.

Gina & Paul Kuzemka own Action Karate in the River Hills Plaza and are also a drop-of for Seeds of Hope donations.

Freedom Plaza ofers a range of activities across its Sun City Center campus.

Freedom Fairways Golf Course and Tennis Club encourages an active lifestyle for Freedom Plaza residents.

Manatee Heart and Vascular Center Cardiologist Helps Patient Escape “the Widowmaker”

After a visit with his physician due to chest pain, tests revealed that Chuck Jenkins, 77, had multiple blockages in the arteries of his heart. In fact, his left anterior descending artery (LAD) — commonly referred to as “the widowmaker” — was 99% blocked in two places.

His doctor referred the Venice resident to Dr. Jeffrey Rossi, an interventional cardiologist at Bradenton Cardiology. Dr. Rossi performed a Protected Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) procedure, while using the Impella® heart pump, which kept blood flowing to critical organs while he was re-opening the arteries with stents.

The procedure was minimally invasive, which can lessen bleeding and pain and speed recovery time for the patient. Now, Chuck is happy to report he can do anything other healthy 77-year-olds can do.

The Manatee Heart and Vascular Center and the Valve Institute at Manatee Memorial Hospital provide patients with an individualized approach to heart care that includes assessment, diagnosis, planning, intervention and evaluation.

For more information, visit manateememorial.com/services/heart-and-vascular-center.

EXPERIENCE FIVE CULTURES IN ONE FESTIVAL AT SOUTHSHORE’S BEST FEST

Where can you spend two days celebrating five cultures, listening to great music and eating good food?

In Wimauma at SouthShore’s BEST Fest, hosted by the SouthShore Chamber of Commerce.

Inspired by theme parks where guests spend the day traveling through diferent cultures, the SouthShore Chamber of Commerce wanted to create an event for the community to do the same. From this, SouthShore’s BEST Fest was born, and the chamber began planning. Five popular festivals that celebrate diferent cultures were chosen and committees for each were created. The five festivals being celebrated at SouthShore’s BEST Fest include Paddy’s Celebration, Oktoberfest, Soul Fest, Dia de los Muertos and Mardi Gras.

SouthShore’s BEST Fest will take place at the Masonic Park in Wimauma on Saturday, March 4 from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sunday, March 5 from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tickets are $10, but $8 for veterans and active-duty military with a proper ID and free for kids under 12 year old. SouthShore’s BEST Fest will also have the Hula Hideaway VIP Tent for $75. The Hula Hideaway VIP includes exclusive entrance, food, drinks, treats and VIP parking.

On top of each tent having its own themed activities and entertainment, there will also

BACK THE LINE GOLF TOURNAMENT SUPPORTS LOCAL FIRST RESPONDER FAMILIES

By Makenzie Atkins

be a food truck rally with local food trucks to match the cultures being celebrated. The food trucks participating are Salty Shamrock’s food truck, Karla’s Cajun Cookin’, Jordan Soul Food Kitchen, Mr. G’s Taqueria, SweeTee Nyammings Caribbean, Currywurst German and more.

“We are thrilled to be able to host this event for our community and our visitors,” said Melanie Davis, executive director at the SouthShore Chamber of Commerce. “People love getting out with their families and friends, and an event like this is ideal for everyone, not to mention it’s right here in our area.”

The SouthShore’s BEST Fest will also provide an amazing lineup of bands on March 4 and 5 all day long, including a variety of music styles. While enjoying the festivities, grab a cold beer, glass of wine or seltzer at the Pirate Barrrrr while checking out the float from the Krewe of the South Shore Marauders.

Presenting sponsors include Christopher Ligori & Associates and Gabro Events, and with over 45 more sponsors and 35 committee members, SouthShore’s BEST Fest is excited to bring you an amazing event. Contact Davis at melanie@southshorechamberofcommerce.org or visit www. southshorechamberofcommerce.org/.

In what has become a yearly event, the Back the Line Charity Golf Tournament will once again provide a way for the local community to support a first responder family in a time of need.

The third annual Back the Line Charity Golf Tournament is going to take place at Summerfield Crossings Golf Course in Riverview on Saturday, April 22 and begins with a 1 p.m. shotgun start.

Tis year’s event is to support the Guggino family of frst responders with funding to pay for medical expenses for their 6-yearold son, Luca Guggino.

According to tournament organizer Heather Cropper, all funds generated by this year’s event will help pay for medical expenses for 6-year-old Luca Guggino, the son of Tampa Fire Rescue first responders Laura and Andrew Guggino.

Laura is a firefighter and Andrew is a driver engineer.

Cropper shared a comment from the Guggino family about the positive response from the local community: “We just want to say how grateful we are as a family for the love and support we’ve received. It has touched our hearts more than you all can know.”

The Back the Line organization has connections to the first responder community and organizers say demonstrating support for those who serve and protect is important.

“It’s time for our community to come together and thank them for what they do

By Brad Stager

and give back when it’s needed most,” said Cropper, whose father is a retired firefighter/ driver engineer and husband is an active firefighter.

Besides the golf tournament, there will be other opportunities to support the cause.

“We will have a lot of awesome rafe items and silent-auction items,” said Cropper. She added that rafe and silent-auction donation opportunities are still available, with Saturday, April 1 as the registration deadline for golfers and sponsors.

According to the event flyer, four-player teams can register for $500 with the tournament dinner included in the cost. Sponsorships range from $150-$2,000.

Donations of auction and rafe items marked “Attention: Back the Line Charity Events” can be delivered to the Tampa Fire Museum, 720 E. Zack St., Tampa, FL 33602, between 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Summerfield Crossings Golf Course is located at 13050 Summerfield Blvd. According to the tournament’s Event Caddy page, golfers can check in at 11:30 a.m. on April 22, with a shotgun start of 1 p.m. More information can be found at the Back the Line Charity Events Facebook page or by contacting backthelinecharity@gmail. com.

Te SouthShore Chamber of Commerce is excited to host the two-day cultural event to bring the community together to learn.

SUMMER CAMPS OFFER SPECIALTY SKILLS & LEARNING FUN

It’s hard to believe but summer is just around the corner and camp registrations are open and gearing up for an active and busy camp season!

The staf at the Osprey Observer has collected the top recommendations for local summer camps and created this special pullout section.

Camp Osprey, LLC

For a fun, traditional camp experience, check out Camp Osprey which is located on 204 acres of beautiful woodlands alongside the Little Manatee River in Wimauma. Camp activities include high ropes courses, ziplines, horseback riding and much more.

Mathnasium Of Riverview And Brandon

Have your child’s math skills been impacted by the last school year? Have they fallen behind? Then Camp Mathnasium will be perfect for them, ofering a typical summer camp environment with diferent learning activities.

Music Showcase/FAOPA

The Florida Academy of the Performing Arts at Music Showcase ofers summer camps for aspiring actors and musicians. With a variety of camp options in full and half-day experiences, there’s something for every young entertainer.

ering summer camps since 2004. This summer, students can sign up on a weekly basis or for the whole summer. Meals and field trips included. High 5, Inc.

Brandon’s High 5 Inc. is inviting students to sail away for the best summer of their lives, kicking of on May 30.

All camps begin on May 30 and run through August 4 with ten separate sessions available Mon-

TLC’S Gypsy

TLC’s Gypsy Haven ofers weekly themed riding camps, ages 8-99, focusing on riding and grooming. The camps take place from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sidekicks Summer Camp

Sidekicks Martial Arts is gearing up for its Summer Camp 2022 program with martial arts, field trips

D-Bat Southshore

If you have a baseball or softball players, summer is a great time to develop skills in this state-ofthe-art facility in Ruskin.

Navigator Academy

Full-day camp will be open for K-8th grade students with lunch and field trips included.

River Hills Country Club

Budding tennis players and golfers will find summer camps for kids ages 7-13 for all levels of players with half and full day camps available.

Code Wiz FishHawk

Full and half-day campas for coding and computers with Roblox, robotics, Minecraft, gaming and more.

Camp Cederkirk

Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center is located on 170 acres of woodland along the Alafia River in Lithia and will host weekly camps starting Sunday, June 11. Campers can sign up for a week or the whole summer. Camps include all meals and activities.

FishHawk Fellowship Church

Ofering a selection of half-day sports camps starting Monday June 5 through August 4.

Catch for our Summer Camp Sweepstakes link where the Osprey Observer will buy your child a week of camp at the summer camp of your choice! Or, enter now by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp Free’) contest@ospreyobserver.com. Did we miss a great summer camp option? Let us know by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp’) jhurst@ospreyobserver.com!

Have a great summer of fun!

Make this a summer of creativity with one (or more) of the 50plus camps and classes ofered at the Patel Conservatory. If your child loves to dance, sing or emote, take a look at the courses Patel has scheduled this summer. Whether your child is a beginner or already practicing their Tony Award® speech, Patel has a class to fit their skill level.

Patel students enjoy the advantage of instructors who have real-world experience in the fields of dance, music and theater. Its professionals will teach your burgeoning star the skills necessary to excel in their field. Patel also can fill them in on the nuts-and-bolts aspect of a career in the arts.

It’s an ideal environment for a young person considering a career in the performing arts. Patel has an impressive track record in this regard, with alumni appearing on Broadway, television, national tours and more. Patel alumni also fill vital roles ofstage as well, such as being directors, producers, writers and technicians.

Patel’s Summer Intensives let young performers immerse themselves in their craft, whether the focus is on the voice,

CAMP MATHNASIUM OFFERS ACTIVITIES TO MAKE MATH FUN

By Lily Belcher

Staf Report

a musical instrument, acting or ballet. Many intensives conclude with a ticketed performance open to the public.

There are plenty of non-intensive opportunities as well: beginners’ classes in ballet, jazz and tap; a theater apprentice workshop; classes on adapting literature for the stage; workshops for repertory orchestra and opera; and so much more.

Individual instruction from members of our music and theater faculty is also available, as it is year-round. Learn oneon-one with a professional actor or musician. Individual lessons for musicians are available for beginners and intermediates, as well as more experienced players preparing for a professional career.

Scholarships are available to help cover the cost of tuition. The deadline for financial aid applications is Sunday, April 2.

Learn more about Patel by attending one of its summer open houses: Saturday, March 25 from 9-10 a.m. and Monday, May 22 from 6-7 p.m.

The Patel Conservatory is located at 1010 N. Macinnes Pl. in Tampa. For more information, call 813-222-1040 or visit www.patelconservatory.org.

Mathnasium is hosting its first summer camp since the coronavirus shutdown at the Brandon location from the end of May to early August to help fight ‘the summer slide.’

Camp Mathnasium will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m.-12 Noon for students through sixth grade with a ‘Wild About MATH’ theme. Additionally, the Brandon location will be adding the Great Foundations program for pre-K through kindergarten students following requests from parents and families.

Camp Mathnasium will help students fight the summer slide — the months of learning loss that occurs between the school years.

“I hope that [through] Camp Mathnasium they see how much fun math can be and that it helps keep their skills sharp during the summer,” said franchise owner, operator and center director Becky McDaniels.

Camp Mathnasium will run alongside the year-round Mathnasium program,

but camp days will o f er a typical summer camp environment with different learning activities. Students will begin their morning with an hour of the Mathnasium program to provide an individualized learning lesson for each student. They will then participate in an activity and finish the day with a STEAM activity.

During registration, students can enroll in a minimum of six and maximum of 12 STEAM activities throughout the summer. Students will be divided by age during these activities, allowing older students to take a more in-depth approach.

Families are encouraged to register early so Mathnasium can prepare for the right number of students. A $25 early-bird discount for those that register before Sunday, April 30 will be o f ered. For specific pricing or to learn more about Camp Mathnasium, Great Foundations or Mathnasium’s year-round program, visit www.mathnasium.com.

Patel students enjoy real-world experience in the felds of dance, music and theater.

Camp Mathnasium ofers fun and engaging STEAM activities throughout the summer.

SUMMER’S HERE AND THE TIME IS RIGHT FOR THE BEACH! VACATION! THE ARTS AT PATEL CONSERVATORY

HIGH 5 INC. SUMMER CAMP WILL FEATURE A CRUISE THEME FOR CAMPERS

High 5 Inc. is hosting its annual summer camp to bring kids “Around the World in 50 Days” with cruisethemed activities throughout the summer.

“Each week, the kids will be visiting a diferent country. During their trip, they will learn about its uniqueness, history, culture and so much more,” said director of family experience Jada Spano.

The camp will run from Tuesday, May 30 to Friday, August 4. Each day, participants can arrive as early as 7 a.m. and leave as late as 6 p.m. to accommodate parents’ work schedules over the summer.

Until the camp ofcially starts at 9 a.m., campers can take a High 5 Summer Cruise photo with their family and go to their stateroom, a High 5 classroom separating campers by grade level. The counselor-to-student ratio will be around 1-to-25, but it is often less since activity specialists will support employees during excursions.

Daily excursions will be available for all campers from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Each hour

RIVER HILLS COUNTRY CLUB JUNIOR SUMMER CAMP HELPS CHILDREN LEARN NEW SPORTS WHILE HAVING FUN

By Makenzie Atkins

By Lily Belcher

will feature several diferent options for campers to participate in every day.

“Our travelers learn the basics for familiar and some new sports, such as cricket, soccer, handball, pickleball, tennis, even a little splashball. Meanwhile, travelers that would prefer the nonathletic route will have the opportunity to explore everything from creating their own boomerangs and rain sticks of Australia to carnival costumes and rhythms of the Caribbean islands,” said regional director Nicole Brown-Collins.

Campers will have the option to purchase a lunch or snack, but they are encouraged to pack one lunch and two snacks. They should arrive in a bathing suit and have a change of clothes in their backpacks.

The camp will cost $175 per camper each week for nonmembers, but High 5 members can register for $160.

To register, visit www.high5inc.org/ camp-3.

Sending your children to summer camp where they can get out of the house during those long summer days, make new friends and learn a new sport can be really beneficial at their young age.

River Hills Country Club in Valrico is ofering a Junior Summer Camp for children ages 7-13, Monday through Friday, with days packed full of golf, tennis, swimming and more. Summer camp can be attended in half or full days.

River Hills has multiple summer camp options, such as Golf Camp or Tennis Clinic and Sports Camp, which all involve learning a new sport and spending time with friends while also enjoying other summer camp fun.

The goal of the Junior Summer Camp at River Hills is to combine the right amount of sport instruction with other interesting activities in order to keep children engaged and excited about learning the sport and its etiquette.

River Hills’ Junior Summer Camp will take children from beginner players to competition-ready ones by starting small and building their individual skills. The coaches at River Hills pride themselves in ofering a low-pressure environment where children

can gain respect for the game and fellow players through practicing with their peers.

“Golf camps ofered this summer at River Hills Country Club will expose children to the great game of golf in a nurturing and educational environment,” said Bryan McManis, general manager at River Hills Country Club. “We want to introduce the game in a fun way so they can practice and apply their skills as they progress through the program.”

The River Hills U.S. Kids Golf Curriculum is taught by a PGA-certified instructor, and Tennis Camp will be led by a United States Professional Tennis Association-certified instructor. On top of golf, tennis and other sports lessons, the Junior Summer Camp will also include swimming, movies and other camp activities.

Golf, tennis and other sports at River Hills include instruction and conditioning to build stamina and endurance. Sports instruction will be provided based on the age and level of the children at the camp.

To enroll your children in a River Hills Country Club summer camp, please call 813-653-1554, ext. 242 or visit https://riverhillscountryclub.com/.

River Hills Country Club’s Junior Summer Camp can provide instruction for every level of player.

Daily excursions at High 5 Inc.’s summer camp will feature water and feld activities.

TLC’s Gypsy Haven

Located at 4325 Keysville Rd. in Lithia, TLC’s Gypsy Haven ofers weekly themed riding camps, for ages 8-99, focused on riding and grooming. The camps take place from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. from Monday, June 5 to Friday, August 4. Students pack their own lunch, snacks and drinks and are encouraged to wear light pants or leggings, but boots are a must. The camp boasts one teacher, one aide and one volunteer per 10 students.

For more information, visit www.tlcsfarms.com, call Tammi at 813-842-4236 or email TLCS2867@aol.com.

Te Patel Conservatory

The Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center is hosting a variety of weekly summer camps for rising actors, musicians and dancers starting Tuesday, May 30 and running through Friday, August 4. Weekly camps will take place Monday through Friday, with pre- and post-camp available for an additional $30 each or $50 for both extensions.

Information on the camps offered as well as specific dates, times and pricing are available in the 2023 summer camps and classes brochure on the Straz Center’s website at www. strazcenter.org. For more information on specific details of the camps, contact the admissions staf at 813-222-1040 or 800955-1045 (toll-free).

Tampa YMCA

Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA has what kids crave at one of its many summer camp locations.

YMCA camps ofer an array of fun where activity specialists will lead campers through various experiences each day, including swimming, science, high ropes, outdoor education, nature encounters, horseback riding, canoeing, visual arts and more.

All camps begin on Tuesday, May 30 and run through Friday, August 4 with 10 separate sessions available from Monday to Friday. Book one weeklong session or book them all. Camp programming runs from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. with free early-morning care beginning at 7 a.m. and free afternoon extended care until 6 p.m. Prices start at only $184 per week for YMCA members and are open to the public. Discounted rates for members, early registration, siblings, multicamp sign-ups and early-bird registration are available.

For more information on specific locations and pricing and to register, visit www. tampaymca.org/programs/camp/summer-camp.

Camp Osprey LLC

For a fun, traditional camp experience, check out Camp Osprey, which is located on 204 acres of beautiful woodlands alongside the Little Manatee River in Wimauma. Camp activities include high ropes courses,

ziplines, horseback riding and much more.

Camps take place every week starting on Sunday, June, and campers can sign up for a week or the whole summer. Day and overnight options are available, with day camp costing $325 a week and overnight being $795. Meals are provided and snacks can be purchased in the camp canteen.

New this year is COSMO Camp Osprey Smoky Mountain Outdoor adventures for groups of 12 campers ages 13-16 years old.

The camp is located at 18050 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Wimauma and can be reached at 941-928-6860. For more information, visit www.camposprey. com.

Kids ‘R’ Kids

Kids ‘R’ Kids has been ofering summer camps since 2004. This summer, students can sign up on a weekly basis or for the whole summer from Tuesday, May 30 to Friday, August 4.

“Camp will showcase unique weekly themes designed to make your campers smile, think, explore, collaborate and grow in exciting new directions,” said Fernandes. “Our camp includes all meals and field trips to a Rays game, Sea Screamer in Clearwater, Ringling Museum, Treasure Island Fun Center and much more.”

Kids ‘R’ Kids Circa FishHawk is located at

5815 Kids Crossing Dr. in Lithia and can be reached at 813-654-7000. Visit its website at wwwkrkcirca.com for more information and to register.

Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center

Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center is located on 170 acres of woodland alongside the Alafia River in Lithia.

Camps take place weekly from Sunday to Friday starting on Sunday, June 11 and finishing on Friday, August 4; campers can sign up for a week or the whole summer. Cedarkirk ofers overnight camps for older students, and younger campers in grades one through three can attend a shorter three-day camp. Camps range in price from $465 a week to $510 and include all meals plus two daily snacks. Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center is located at 1920 Streetman Dr. in Lithia and can be reached at 813-685-4224. For more information and to register, visit www.cedarkirk.org.

Code Wiz FishHawk

Code Wiz FishHawk is located in Park Square at 16132 Churchview Dr. in Lithia. It will be running full and half-day camps for students interested in computers and coding. Camp activities will include Roblox, robotics, Minecraft and building your own 2D/3D video games. The half-day camp runs from 9 a.m.-12 Noon and from 1-4 p.m.; a full-

JUUNNIIOOR R SUMMMER R C CAMP

GO

US Kids Golf Curriculum taught by PGA Certified Instructors can take virtually any player from absolute beginner to an elite competition player in simple, incremental steps.

A positive no pressure learning environment where respect for the game of golf and fellow players is taught.

A fun experience that includes golf instruction, rules and etiquette with additional non golf fun activities in the afternoon available i.e. swimming, movies and other camp activities.

It is the goal of this camp to combine just the right amount of golf instruction to keep students engaged in enjoying the game of golf.

day is 9 a.m.-4 p.m. A week of half-day camp is $350 and $550 for a full-day camp; discounts are available for siblings, multicamp and early-bird registrations. For more information, visit www.thecodewiz. com/fishhawk-fl or call 813-820-6583.

Mathnasium Of Riverview & Brandon Mathnasium’s personalized learning plans are proven to improve grades and give them a head start going into the new school year. With live face-to-face instruction, either in-center or online, its summer programs are designed to work in tandem with the other summer camps and activities. Just two or three one-hour sessions per week are all kids need to help keep their math skills on track for the upcoming school year, and your child will continue to enjoy summer because Mathnasium makes learning math fun. Space is limited so don’t delay in registering your child.

Call today for a free assessment.

Mathnasium of Brandon (www.mathnasium.com/brandon) is located at 1048 Bloomingdale Ave. and can be reached at 813-655-6284, and Mathnasium of Riverview (www.mathnasium.com/riverview) is located at 1388 U.S. 301 and can be reached at 813-565-1102. Coming soon is a new location at 13388 S. U.S. 301 in Riverview.

Music Showcase

The Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA) at Music Showcase ofers summer

camps for aspiring actors and musicians. With a variety of camp options in full and half-day experiences, there’s something for every young entertainer.

The traditional camp exposes campers to music and more. You can sign up for one weeklong camp or you can sign up for multiple camps. Camps are structured by age, ability and interest.

Its other camp option is a musical theater camp, where campers work together over the course of a few weeks to put on a show.

For further details, visit www.faopa.org or call 813490-2787. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

River Hills Junior Summer Camp

Do you have a budding tennis or golf player in your home? Sign them up for camp at River Hills Country Club, which aims to combine just the right amount of sport instruction with fun to keep your children loving the sport. Camps are suitable for all ages from 7-13 years old and all levels of players, having a U.S. Kids Golf curriculum being taught by PGA-certified instructors and tennis instruction with drills and conditioning from a USPTA instructor. Half and full-day sessions are available. River Hills Country Club is located at 3943 New River Hills Pkwy. in Valrico. For more information on summer

camps, visit www.riverhillscountryclub.com or call 813-653-1554, ext. 242.

High 5 Inc.

Brandon’s High 5 Inc. is inviting students to go “Around the World In 50 Days,” kicking of on Tuesday, May 30 and running through Friday, August 4.

Each week students will be visiting a different country and learn about its uniqueness, history, culture and so much more.

Camp is ofered Monday through Friday from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. at High 5, which is located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon. Campers can sign up for individual weeks throughout the summer or the entire summer. To register, visit www.high5inc.org/camp-3.

Camp costs $175 a week per child for nonmembers and High 5 members can register for $160.

To learn more, visit www.high5inc.org or call 813-689-0908.

D-BAT South Shore

Does your child love baseball or softball? Help them develop their skills this summer at D-BAT South Shore, located at 351 30th St. NE in Ruskin. Summer camp programs are being ofered from Monday, May 29 to Friday, July 28, and state-of-the-art technology will be used

to allow campers to enhance and improve basic baseball and softball skills. This is a great opportunity for students to get involved with others who share their desire to grow and develop their ball skills. Camp runs on a weekly basis from 8:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and costs $175 a week for platinum members. Additional information can be found on its website at https://dbatsouthshore.com/ or by calling 813-645-3228.

Navigator Academy

Summer camp at Navigator Academy is a full-day camp open for incoming kindergarteners to eighth graders. Weekly and daily rates are available, with field trips and lunch included. Navigator Academy is located at 1101 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Additional information can be found on its website at www.navigatoracademyvalrico.com.

FishHawk Fellowship Church

FishHawk Fellowship Church, located at 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia is ofering a selection of half-day sports camps, including basketball, soccer and flag football, running from Monday, June 5 until Friday, August 4. Most camps are for first through fifth graders, with some available for first through eighth graders from Monday, June 26 to August 4. All camps run from 8:30 a.m.12:30 p.m., and the price is $105 for the week. For additional information, call 813655-7431.

HIT A HOME RUN WITH D-BAT SOUTH SHORE THIS SUMMER

Looking for a way to help fill your child’s summer? Look no further than D-BAT South Shore, where summer camp programs are being offered to help your child develop their baseball or softball skills while having a great time and making new friends. D-BAT ofers state-ofthe-art technology that is implemented into the training, which allows campers to enhance and improve basic baseball and softball skills. Some of this technology includes, but is not limited to, Hack Attack pitching machines and Blast Motion hitting technology. Another great aspect of this camp is that all it requires of the young players is to show up with the basic gear for the sport along with lunch and water, then they are good to go. This is a great opportunity for kids to get involved with others who share their same interest and a desire to grow and develop their skills while engaging in classic baseball and softball comradery. The facility features both indoor and outdoor setups to ensure that camp can continue unimpeded by the elements, while the indoor elements of the site are climate-con-

By Jonathan Hurst

trolled. With a camper-to-instructor ratio of 8-1, every player who comes through the camp will be well coached and attended to.

D-BAT South Shore also features nine batting cages along with pitching lanes to ensure that campers are getting their skill practice in. If they are doing well, there are also end-of-week prizes for the skill leaders of the week.

This summer camp runs on a week to week basis from Monday, May 29 through Friday, July 28, and can be attained for as little as $175 for the entire week for platinum members. Further discounts for early sign-ups, multicamp sign-ups and signing up siblings together. Every camp runs on the weekdays with the drop-of opening at 8:45 a.m. and the latest pickup being at 2:30 p.m.

D-BAT South Shore is located at 351 30th St. NE in Ruskin. For more information, visit its website at https://dbatsouthshore.com/, go to its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/DBATsports/ or call 813-645-3228.

TAMPA YMCA HOSTS SUMMER CAMPS TO TEACH KIDS

SKILLS

WHILE HAVING FUN

It’s that time of year again where you have to begin to decide what summer camp is best for your children. With over 130 years of experience in providing a safe place for kids in the community, Tampa YMCA Summer Camp is a great choice for filling those long summer days with something exciting and educational.

The YMCA ofers a variety of summer camp options, from art camp to adventure camp there is something for everyone.

“Summer camp is more than singalongs and splash pads,” said Michelle Leahy, camp director at Campo Family YMCA. “Campers at the Tampa YMCA ACA-accredited summer day camps are given a safe space to discover who they are and what they want to become while experiencing fun, friends and adventure.”

Summer camps are open from Tuesday, May 30 to Friday, August 4 and range from $184-$225 a week for YMCA members and $235-$298 for non-YMCA members. Multiweek teen camps start at $330 for members and $410 for non-YMCA members.

Campers are expected to wear cool, comfortable clothing that can get dirty, closed-toe and closed-back shoes as well as

By Makenzie Atkins

sunscreen, and they should bring a bathing suit and towel since campers will have the opportunity to swim in the YMCA pools.

Join in on the fun in one of the many locations in Brandon, Riverview, Plant City, Tampa and more.

Tampa YMCA

Summer Camps being ACA-accredited means they underwent a thorough review on operations by the American Camp Association (ACA), from staf qualifications and training to emergency management, and complied with the highest standards in the industry. With ACA accreditation, the YMCA is one of the safest places to get your kids to fun out of the house this summer, as not only are staf certified in first aid and CPR, but they are also certified fun and learning experts.

Tampa YMCA Summer Camp prides itself in helping kids explore personal interests, build self-esteem, develop interpersonal skills, discover the creativity and health benefits of the outdoors and make lasting friendships and memories.

Visit https://tampaymca.org/letscamp or find the YMCA on social media at TampaYMCA.

Tampa YMCA Summer Camps help children learn about themselves while developing friendships.

RIVERVIEW BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB HELPS LOCAL YOUTHS

Duwayne ‘Coach

Tony’ Smith of Valrico is a retired Tampa police ofcer who served on the force for 28 years. He came out of retirement to start working at the Riverview Boys and Girls Club, overseeing its Passport to Manhood and SMART Girls programs. “I love helping kids and this program seemed like the perfect fit for me,” Smith said. “The young men refer to themselves as the ‘Gentlemen Club.’”

The Passport to Manhood program represents a targeted efort to engage young boys in discussions and activities that reinforce character, leadership and positive behavior. Each participant receives a ‘passport’ to underscore the notion that he is on a personal journey of maturation and growth. Each of the program’s 14 sessions use interactive activities to focus on a specific aspect of character and manhood. It also includes a service project where boys learn the importance of giving back to the community.

SMART Girls is a small-group health, fitness, prevention/education and self-esteem enhancement program designed to meet the developmental needs of girls in three age groups, spanning ages 8-18. Through dynamic sessions, participatory activities, field trips and mentoring opportunities with

SUMMER OF SONG AND DANCE RETURNS WITH MUSIC SHOWCASE

By Jonathan Hurst

By Libby Hopkins

adult women, club girls explore their own and societal attitudes and values as they build skills for eating right, staying physically fit, getting good health care and developing positive relationships with peers and adults.

On December 9, 2022, the Passport to Manhood/SMART Girls programs were celebrated at the club.

“The young men served the young ladies and female parents dessert after their dinner hour,” Smith said.

“Prior to the event, the young men were apprehensive of doing such an event. I was able to convince the young men on how to be polite and courteous to women in general through numerous classroom discussions and practice. One young man told me that he thought that this was a great idea because he has witnessed a few of his friends mistreat their girlfriends.”

The young ladies and parents were served cheesecake and Bundt cakes.

“The ladies were personally greeted and escorted in the decorated classroom for dessert,” Smith said. “Tyree Braxton, a sophomore at Spoto High School, was our narrator and speaker.

Visit https://bgcriverview.com/. The club is located at 6809 Krycul Ave. in Riverview.

For a summer of song and dance look no further than the Music Showcase from the Florida Academy of Performing Arts. Here, the campers will be immersed in the world of performing with a variety of options to get involved. Whether your child wants to just test the waters or is a full-fledged theater enthusiast, there are plenty of options.

For those who are a little unsure, there are full and half-day options for the weeklong camp Music and More, where students will interact with multiple avenues of performing, such as acting, singing, dancing and more. Students will also be exposed to instruments to see if anything clicks for them, as well as general art. Drop-o f time for Music and More opens at 8 a.m., and the latest pickup time is at 6 p.m.

For those with a bit more of a commitment to performing arts, there is the Musical Theater Camp, which is a bit more intensive when it comes to the theater aspect. This camp runs for two weeks and involves the students learn -

ing about how to put on a production and all the elements that go into that. These students will work on skills such as acting, singing and various theater techniques and practices. This camp concludes with a performance of a play featuring the campers.

Musical Theater Camp runs from 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

“There is something for all ages and abilities,” said academy director Danielle Sanchez.

The Music and More camp runs weekly from Tuesday, May 30 through Friday, August 4, and Musical Theater camp has the same time frame but on a two-week schedule. There is a one-time $30 registration fee with the cost of the Music and More at $230 a week and $275 for the Musical Theater Camp. There are scholarships and discounts for siblings available as well.

For further details, visit www.faopa. org or call 813-490-2787. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

On December 9, 2022, the Riverview Boys and Girls Club celebrated its Passport to Manhood and SMART Girls programs.

Music Showcase has eight weeks of Music and More summer camp.

CIMINO ELEMENTARY’S COACH DANIEL MACKO AWARDED TECO COACH OF THE BAY

During the Tampa Bay Lightning home game versus the Boston Bruins on January 26, Cimino Elementary School’s coach Daniel Macko was recognized as the 2022 Tampa Bay Lightning Coach of the Bay presented by TECO.

Macko has been teaching physical education at Cimino Elementary for 14 years. He is passionate about creating enjoyable activities that instill confidence.

“What makes coaching special to me is the relationship I get to create with students for six years. Most teachers only have a child for one year. So, it’s awesome I get to see these kids grow up and develop the physical skills to be become better and confident in sports and in themselves,” Macko said.

Macko introduces sports and skills that will help students live a positive heathy lifestyle. Cimino Principal Joann Grifths said Macko inspires everyone he is around.

“Coach Macko is our hero. He represents all that is possible and positive. He exudes a can-do attitude that is uplifting and contagious. Danny demonstrates the character traits we all strive to achieve. He is our Coach of the Bay each and every day,” Griffiths said.

With a focus on making sports fun for students, Macko hopes his students will be

SUN ’N FUN AEROSPACE EXPO 2023 COMING IN MARCH

By Jane Owen

inspired to stay active throughout their lives. He loves making a diference in his students’ lives.

“My favorite part of coaching is creating activities that they remember for a lifetime. I still have students that come back that are adults now and tell me how much they loved this activity or that activity. It always brings a smile to my face,” Macko said.

Macko was named Cimino Elementary Teacher of the Year in 2012 and graduated from the University of South Florida in 2009. The TECO Coach of the Bay designation has been awarded since 2019.

Macko received recognition during the game, a personalized Lightning jersey and $1,000 to give to the charity of his choice; he chose the Down Syndrome Association of Tampa Bay (on Facebook @21StrongForever).

“I chose the Down Syndrome Association of Tampa Bay because we have a student at our school who has touched the hearts of our family,” Macko said. Cimino Elementary is located at 4329 Culbreath Rd. Valrico. Visit www.hillsboroughschools.org/cimino.

Save the date for one of one of the largest and most successful aviation events in the world, the 2023 SUN ’n FUN Aerospace Expo, as it prepares to celebrate its 49th anniversary. The March 28 - April 2 event in Lakeland is the first major air show of the year. SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo, has also announced that E3 Aviation Association is the new title sponsor. The partnership allows for the more than 200,000 aviation enthusiasts from around the world to enjoy what has become known as Aviation’s Season Opener or Spring Break for Pilots.

Taking of for its 49th year, SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo showcases of hundreds of aircraft on display including Vintage, Homebuilt, Aerobatic, Warbird, Jet, and Light Sport.

One of the highlights of the five-day expo is the Blue Angels, the high-flying and awe-inspiring flight demonstration squadron of the U.S. Navy.

Additional special airshow acts include U.S. Air Force F-35 Lightening II Demonstration Team, the U.S. Marine Corp F-35B Lightening II Demonstration Team, and Doug Rozendaal flying Mr. Mulligan, the Howard DGA-6 pioneer racing plane.

SUN ‘n FUN also features more than 500

exhibitors, hands-on workshops teaching building and maintenance skills, and educational forums from pilots and maintainers about safety, new products, and other timely topics.

“E3 Aviation Association is the perfect partner to join SUN ‘n FUN this year. It’s an amazing brand fit in every way with the experiential event we’ve created,” said Gene Conrad, President and CEO for SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo. “At the core of it all is our shared passion for aviati-on. We have so many fun and interesting surprises waiting for our visitors this year.“

Tickets for SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo are available online at flysnf.org.

From its humble beginnings in 1974, SUN ‘n FUN Fly-In, Inc. is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit that mar-kets and supports dozens of yearround events, including the Aerospace Expo. Proceeds from these events are the primary source of funding for The Aerospace Center for Excellence (ACE), which has emerged as a nationally recognized leader in STEM-related and aerospace education through its various learning centers, outreach programs, scholarships, and summer camps aimed at engaging, educating and accelerating the next generation of aerospace professionals. Learn more at flysnf.org.

Photo courtesy of Vinik Sport Group Coach Daniel Macko of Cimino Elementary School was recognized as the 2022 Coach of the Bay presented by TECO at a recent Tampa Bay Lightning game.

Te Annual SUN n FUN Aerospace Expo brings thousands of visitors to see thrilling ari shows along with hundreds of aircraft on display.

ALL HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY K-12 STUDENTS ENCOURAGED TO ENTER WATER CONSERVATION POSTER CONTEST

Hillsborough County K-12 students are encouraged to channel their inner artist, blend it with a passion for water conservation and enter the 2023 Drop Savers Water Conservation Poster Contest, which is sponsored by Hillsborough County and the City of Tampa.

All Hillsborough County students from kindergarten through 12th grade can enter the contest by creating a poster depicting water conservation. Each student who enters a poster in the contest must create an original idea that portrays water conservation in a slogan and/or drawing form. Each poster will be judged on the message, creativity, originality and artistic ability. The poster must be drawn on 8.5 by 11-inch white paper and may be drawn vertically or horizontally. Students may use crayons, paint, colored pencils or markers. No highlighters, photos or computer graphics are permitted.

There are five divisions in the contest:

• Division one: Kindergarten and first grade students.

• Division two: Second and third grade students.

• Division three: Fourth and fifth grade students.

• Division four: All middle school grades.

• Division five: All high school grades.

Each school will select one winner from each division for submission to the local level. A panel of water conservation specialists from Hillsborough County Water Resources and the City of Tampa Water Department will judge all school winning posters on the message, creativity, originality and artistic ability and choose a first, second and third-place local winner for each division. The first-place local winners will advance to the statewide level, judged by the Florida Section of the American

Water Works Association (FSAWWA).

The submission deadline for the local-level judging is Wednesday, March 1. Learn more about the Drop Savers Poster Contest rules on the Drop Savers Poster Contest webpage at http:// www.hcflgov.net/.

The first-place local winners for each division will win:

• A bottle-filling station installation at their school (this is only available to public schools).

• Customized reusable water bottles imprinted with their artwork to share with their classmates.

• Posters of their artwork to take home and for display in their art classroom.

• A water conservation retrofit kit (low-flow aerators and showerhead, toilet leak detection dye tablets, hose nozzle and more).

• Inclusion of their artwork on water conservation awareness posters displayed above bottle-filling stations throughout Hillsborough County (Find locations at www.hcflgov.net/waterconservation).

• Inclusion of their artwork on promotional materials for future contests.

• Advancement to the statewide-level FSAWWA Drop Savers Poster Contest for additional prizes.

In addition, first, second and thirdplace local winners from each division will get their artwork displayed on www. hcflgov.net and www.tampa.gov. All participants will receive a certificate of appreciation.

Students who enter the statewide competition can win gifts cards, a plaque with poster, a water conservation kit and more.

For information about the 2023 Drop Savers Water Conservation Poster Contest, email waterconservation@hcflgov. net or call 813-612-7705.

2022 First Place Winner Division One was Ayaan Sangomola from Chiles Elementary School.

2022 First Place Winner Division Five was Miki Lin from Brandon High School.

2022 First Place Winner Division Four was Mahi Patel from Chiles Elementary School.

NEW INTERACTIVE SPLASH AND PLAY

Adventure Island, Tampa’s premier water park, will open for the 2023 season on Saturday, March 4, and the park’s newest addition, Shaka-Laka Shores, opens in late March. The new splash and play zone, located in the heart of Adventure Island, will feature an area with 25 individual elements and a central kid-friendly play structure bound to entertain and engage even the youngest of guests. Shaka-Laka Shores will greet guests as they enter the park and showcase the waterpark’s overarching tropical paradise theme.

The newest addition will have more than two dozen playful elements and a variety of interactive aquatic components, all within a zero-depth area — ideal for smaller kids — as well as additional shaded areas. The newly constructed area will also house three new private cabanas featuring convenient access to the new area. Shaka-Laka Shores joins a comprehensive list of exciting water slides, Endless Surf’s 17,000-squarefoot wave pool, an additional kid-friendly option in Splash Attack and more.

“Shaka-Laka Shores’ vibrant and interactive elements are bound to provide our

Staf Report

youngest guests with a playful space to splash and explore,” said Neal Thurman, park president of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Adventure Island. “Shaka-Laka Shores will bundle the elements of excitement

and inter- activity to serve as another great option for families experiencing Adventure Island.”

The opening of Shaka-Laka Shores, along with recently opened attractions Rapids Racer and Wahoo Remix, is part of the waterpark’s largest expansion in more than four decades. Guests are quickly immersed in a revitalized and vibrant theme from a newly designed front entrance and carried over into the park with new lounging areas, additional cabanas and even new refreshment locations, such as the full-service Hang Ten Tiki Bar.

Adventure Island’s Annual Pass is the best way to enjoy an entire year of family fun under the sun, including the new Shaka-Laka Shores and exciting seasonal events.

Visit https://adventureisland.com/ to purchase tickets and learn more about the Annual Pass program benefits, new events, special deals and future announcements.

•

•

•

•

BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY

BECOMES NEW HOME FOR BANDAR, A CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SUMATRAN TIGER

Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay recently announced the arrival of a male, 9-year-old Sumatran tiger named Bandar who joined the park’s diverse collection of more than 200 animal species. Bandar was transferred from the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium in Tacoma, Washington and is the park’s first Sumatran tiger to join the existing streak of tigers. In his new habitat, he will join Rukayah and Zahra, a Malayan and Bengal tiger, respectively. Park guests are now able to get up close with Bandar, who resides in the Jungala realm of the park.

“Watching Bandar settle into his new home is exciting and inspiring,” said Jenny Mendoza, vice president - zoological for Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. “We are very thrilled to provide him with a home for him to thrive, share his story with our guests and have our zoological facilities serve as a building block for the prosperous future of all tigers.”

The Sumatran tiger is a critically endangered species on the brink of extinction. With less than 400 known Sumatran tigers in the wild, Bandar is part of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s participation in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP). The mission of the SSP is to cooperatively manage specific species popu-

lations within AZA-accredited facilities, such as Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, which has successfully managed tiger populations for more than five decades.

Guests interested in experiencing a unique and up-close look at Bengal, Malayan and Sumatran tigers can purchase a Tiger Insider Tour to gain an insider’s perspective of the care of this endangered species and learn how our parks help to protect this powerful species in the wild. Through these engaging and educational opportunities, guests can learn how they can make a diference for their counterparts in the wild.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the ultimate family adventure, ofering 300 acres of fascinating attractions based on exotic explorations around the world. Busch Gardens is a unique blend of thrilling rides, an AZA-accredited zoo with thousands of animals representing more than 200 species and exciting seasonal events all year providing unrivaled experiences for guests of every age.

Guests can learn more about all the events, special deals and future announcements at Busch Gardens by visiting https:// buschgardens.com/ and following Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.

A rendering of Shaka-Laka Shores, Adventure Island’s new splash and play zone.

HCPS AWARDED SCHOOL-BASED MENTAL HEALTH GRANT TO ASSIST THE NEEDS OF OUR DIVERSE STUDENT POPULATION

Hillsborough County

Public Schools has been awarded a five-year School-based Mental Health (SBMH) grant for approximately $8.5 million. The grant is funded through the United States Department of Education, Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities-National Programs. Federal funds will contribute $8,562,135 (75 percent) towards the School-based Mental Health project and non-federal match funds will contribute $2,140,534 (25 percent). Inkind match funds include the salary of supplemental social workers providing mental health supports in the district.

This School-based Mental Health Service project will implement a comprehensive recruitment and retention plan with the goal of increasing the number of credentialed school-based mental health service providers serving Hillsborough County Public Schools students. The comprehensive strategy outlined in the project includes activities that focus on restructuring compensation, recruiting personnel from diverse backgrounds that reflect the demographic makeup of the district’s students and providing a robust array of professional development opportunities to support new and existing staf members.

The district expects that the project will result in the following outcomes:

THOMAS THE TANK ENGINE VISITS THE FLORIDA RAILROAD MUSEUM

Staf Report

• Increased recruitment of school psychologists, school counselors and school social workers to mirror student demographics.

• Stabilization of staf retention rates.

• Increased availability of school-based mental health resources for students, teachers and administrators.

• Improved local capacity to support school-based mental health service providers through the provision of high-quality professional development opportunities.

• Formalization of district partnerships with Institutes of Higher Education (IHEs) to create a pipeline of future applicants.

Students’ mental health needs are increasing at an exponential rate, and there are simply not enough resources available within schools or through community providers to meet the identified needs. It is expected the implementation of this SBMH project will provide the funds to recruit new, highly qualified mental health-based employees, including approximately 30-40 school counselors, 10-20 school psychologists and 20-30 school social workers. In addition, the funds from the SBMH project will provide robust, supportive professional development to retain current staf, all to meet the growing mental health needs of our students throughout the district.

Ride along Thomas the Tank Engine during its Party Train Tour at the Florida Railroad Museum in Parrish on select weekends in April. Dates include Saturday, April 17; Sunday, April 18; Saturday, April 24; and Sunday, April 25. Prices range from $19 to $23, depending on the time of day for peak and non-peak pricing. To add, anyone 24 months old and up will need a ticket to enter. Advanced tickets will be required.

Florida Railroad Museum’s events director, Glenn Miley, mentioned how this event came into fruition.

“Thomas the Tank Engine has been visiting the Florida Railroad Museum for 10 years and is coming back in April,” Miley said.

While on board Thomas the Tank Engine, attendees will have a party pass to receive favors at numerous stops along the way. An array of activities that attendees could participate in would include crafts, checking out the party corner for lawn game fun and more. Those interested will also get an opportunity to say hello to Sir Topham Hatt or even visit the pop-up gift shop.

This event will be abiding by the local

government guidelines with enhanced safety protocols in place.

“There will be extra cleaning between trains. Sanitizer stations will also be placed around the grounds,” Miley said.

Founded as the Florida Gulf Coast Railroad Museum, the Florida Railroad Museum, Inc. was established with the goal to preserve Florida’s railroad history that existed in the 1940s and 1950s. The museum itself consists of exhibits that individuals can ride. The Florida Railroad Museum operates on a 6-mile line between Parrish and Willow in rural Manatee County. As a side note, this specific railroad line was the first to be built in Manatee County. The trains are operated by the Florida Railroad Museum volunteers, and throughout the year, special weekend events such as this one will occur.

For more information, visit http:// www.frrm.org. To purchase tickets, visit https://www.ticketweb.com/venue/florida-railroad-museum-parrish-fl/83825. It is located at 12210 83rd St. E. in Parrish and is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Call 941-776-0906.

Staf Report

Tomas the Tank Engine makes an appearance during its Party Train Tour at the Florida Railroad Museum.