Osprey Observer Bloomingdale/FishHawk May 2023

DR. JANE GOODALL MEETS WITH BEVIS STUDENT WHO WROTE LETTER

Everyone dreams of meeting their hero at one time or another, whether they are from a favorite comic book or are a professional in their respective field. For 10-year-old Vivian Knutzen, all it took was passion and a handwritten letter to meet hers.

Knutzen’s fascination with Dr. Jane Goodall began when her mother, Dawn Holland, gave her a book on the primatologist and her life’s work. Soon after, Knutzen read nearly all the books at her local library about Dr. Goodall, even checking out and perusing publications above her reading level. Inspired by Dr. Goodall’s work, Knutzen, too, has dreams of working with chimpanzees in Africa.

Upon discovering that Dr. Goodall frequently visits her childhood home in England, Knutzen proposed she write a letter to her hero on how much she admired her work and asking for ways she also could further help the environment and animals around the world. Sending the letter on its way in mid-January, Knutzen and Holland did not hear from Dr. Goodall’s team until almost two months later.

Receiving a call from Knutzen’s school, Bevis Elementary, one afternoon, Holland was shocked to hear that the publicist for Dr. Goodall was looking for her daughter.

Explaining that Dr. Goodall had thoroughly enjoyed Knutzen’s letter and was going to be in Tampa the following week, the publicist extended an invitation for Knutzen to meet her idol in person. Waiting until her daughter arrived home from school that afternoon, Holland surprised Knutzen with the news.

By Madeline Gardner

“The chances that she would be coming to Tampa and that this would all happen, and we would actually have a chance to meet her, it was like it was meant to be. It was crazy,” said Holland.

On March 29, Knutzen and Holland arrived at the Tampa Theatre at 5:15 p.m. before the ‘Growing a Compassionate & Sustainable Future for All: An Evening with Dr. Goodall’ private lecture they had been invited to. Escorted to the green room, they were introduced to Dr. Goodall herself, who welcomed Knutzen in with a hug.

Conversation topics ranged from discussing Knutzen’s dog to Dr. Goodall’s experiences with chimpanzees in the wild. Upon giving Dr. Goodall a handmade bracelet, the primatologist signed both the first book Knutzen had ever read about her hero as well as Knutzen’s shirt, even drawing a chimpanzee on it.

At 7 p.m., Knutzen and Holland sat near the stage and watched Dr. Goodall’s lecture, which began with a discussion of her curiosity for animals and segued to how anyone can have an impact on the environment and raising awareness. Receiving a personal letter from Dr. Goodall the day just prior to meeting her, Knutzen stated she plans to continue writing to her in the future, especially after this inspiring experience.

“I think it just feels like she can make anyone love animals,” said Knutzen. “

She just has this special thing where she can make you want to help the environment.”

COMMUNITY & SPECIAL GUESTS COME TOGETHER TO CELEBRATE CIMINO ELEMENTARY’S 20TH ANNIVERSARY

Cimino Elementary School commemorated its 20th anniversary on April 6 with a rededication ceremony. Cimino, located at 4329 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico, opened in 2002 with Sandra Frost as principal, and it is named after Richard Daniel Cimino. Current Cimino principal Joanne Griffiths described him as a civic leader and true advocate for children, education and service. Rosalind (Roz) Creager and Matt Creager, daughter and grandson of Richard, attended the celebration. Roz shared memories of her dad and a poem that inspired him.

“If (my) dad were here with us today, with a big teasing smile, he would say, ‘This is my school, and these are my kids,’” Roz said.

The celebration began with a surprise performance by the Bloomingdale Senior High School Drumline. It included a presentation of colors by Cimino students; performances by the Cimino choir; a message from school board member Patti Rendon; a message from Cimino’s teacher of the year, Kara Mara (read by third grader Olivia Campo); sharing of Richard’s legacy (read by fifth grader Colin Kurto); reflections of a former student (Madison Skonie); a recognition of years of service for Cimino faculty and staf; and special recognition to Debbie Coleman on her upcoming retirement.

“My grandfather loved his family and

By Jane Owen

friends and was an active volunteer in the community. He would have been tickled to see all the students at the rededication. He loved kids. He loved to hunt, fish and cook. He had a booming voice, loved to joke and tell stories. Poppy, as I called him, would have said he didn’t deserve to have a school named after him. Then he would have grinned, winked and said, ‘But I’ll take it proudly.’ And we don’t have the words to express how proud he would have been,” Matt said.

In attendance at the celebration were former Principal Cindy Dowdy (2012-17), former Principal Debby Talley (2006-12), school board member Patti Rendon, Region 4 Superintendent Jaime Gerding and many teachers and staf from the inaugural year of the school. After the ceremony, these special guests were invited to a reception in the media center.

IN THIS ISSUE:

SPECIAL NEEDS CHEER PG 3

MOTORING TAMPA BAY PG 5

CANINE CABANA IS 15 PG 9

EYE ON BUSINESS PG 25

PIGTAILS & CREWCUTS PG 26

Photos courtesy of Jessica Hinson and Kathi Hayes Bloomingdale High School’s baseball team celebrated their senior night in April. Pictured (L-R): Jacob Magadan, Barry University; Alexander Vazquez, Greensboro University; Tyler Clinton, Daytona State; Robert Rossi, Greensboro University; Dawson Harman, High Point University; Trey Wilson, State College of Florida Bradenton; Andrew Pierce, Webber International University; and Coach Kris Wilken.

Roz Creager and Matt Creager, daughter and grandson of Richard Cimino.

From left to right, school board member Patti Rendon, former Principal Cindy Dowdy (201217), current Principal Joanne Grifths and former Principal Debby Talley (2006-12).

Vivian Knutzen met Dr. Jane Goodall before the start of the primatologist’s private lecture at the Tampa Teatre.

BLOOMINGDALE BULLS SENIOR NIGHT

NEW TAMPA BAY FERRIES ALLIANCE CONTINUES AREA PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION VISION

A diverse group of local leaders from across Tampa Bay have joined to develop the Tampa Bay Ferries Alliance, a nonprofit organization dedicated to delivering on permanent, year-round, cost-efective ferry service.

Tanya Doran, a lifelong South Hillsborough County resident and the former CEO and president of the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce, will serve as the alliance’s founding president and CEO.

“I am honored to lead the Tampa Bay Ferries Alliance alongside our incredible Board,” said Doran.

“As the South Hillsborough County population continues to grow, adding a sustainable ferry service to connect all of Tampa Bay, utilizing our untapped waterways is a wise decision.”

The alliance announced its founding board of directors, including:

Michael Ball — retired Naval ofcer.

Bryce Bowden — member of the Hillsborough County Planning Commission.

Joe Eletto — veteran and military focused support organizations.

Fred Fallman — retired United States Air Force.

Kelly Flannery — South Tampa Chamber president and CEO.

Chris Steinocher — St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce president and CEO.

Nancy Stevens — Tampa Bay Sierra

Club conservation chair.

TWO NEWSOME STUDENTS START CHEER TEAM FOR PEERS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

By Lily Belcher

Staf Report

Board secretary Joe Eletto is a Vietnam-era veteran and chairman of the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce’s Military Afairs Committee.

“As a military and veteran advocate, a ferry is a win-win for us all and the only transportation option that will improve these heroes’ quality of life by giving them back well over an hour with their family each day,” said Eletto, The organization will operate independently but in cooperation with the currently operating seasonal Cross Bay Ferry system, which is a unique public-private partnership between Hillsborough County, Pinellas County, St. Petersburg, Tampa and HMS Ferries.

The Tampa Bay Ferries Alliance’s initial goals are to secure expedited permanent ferry service in the Tampa Bay region, including a commuter connection between South Hillsborough County and MacDill Air Force Base alongside service between St. Petersburg, Tampa and South Hillsborough County.

“The fact is we have a tremendous, untapped resource right at our shorelines,” said Doran.

“With community buy-in and committed local leadership, we can bring reliable ferry service to communities across the entire region.”

To learn more, visit www.tampabayferriesalliance.org.

The FishHawk Wolfpack Cheer Team is starting a challenger team for athletes with special needs that want to take part in their cheer program.

Callie Hancock, a junior student at Newsome High School and member of the Wolfpack Cheer Team, started the challenger team to create an inclusive and fun opportunity for her peers with special needs.

“Junior Alyssa Gardner and I were both Wolfpack cheerleaders when we were younger. … We wanted to give kids of diferent abilities an opportunity to make memories like us,” explained Callie.

The team will ofer a way for athletes with special needs to stay active and engaged with their friends while being supported by their coaches and teammates. Callie was inspired by her younger sister, Leyton, who has cerebral palsy, to create a team to reach FishHawk kids with special needs.

“She is my biggest inspiration and I have seen everything she has been through. As she has gotten older, it has been harder and harder for her to participate in younger kid activities. This program allows her and other special needs

kids in our community to participate in ways that they normally cannot,” said Callie.

The co-ed team will start on Tuesday, August 1, with practices on Monday nights. Callie is hoping to have around 10 athletes on the cheer squad in their inaugural season. Students between 5-18 years old can register online for $150, which includes a practice set, uniform and bow. Callie and Gardner will coach the team, using their experience with the Wolfpack Cheer Team to guide their new cheerleaders.

“I was not surprised at all. Callie is the hardest working, motivated and driven teenager I know. She has always been the absolute best big sister to Leyton,” said Callie’s mother, Malinda Hancock. “… Callie and Alyssa will be the most amazing coaches.”

The Wolfpack Cheer Team are six-time national champions in their 17th year in the FishHawk community. The recreational cheer program is located of FishHawk Boulevard in Lithia.

For more information, visit www.fishhawkwolfpack.com or contact fhwolfpackcheercoordinator@gmail.com.

Callie Hancock and Alyssa Gardner cheering for the Wolfpack Cheer Team in 2012.

Callie and Malinda Hancock at a 2012 cheer competition.

THE RIDE: Four-door, up-to-six-passenger 2023 Toyota Tundra 4x4 Capstone CrewMax full-size pickup.

DOWN THE ROAD: Sitting on a fully boxed, high-strength steel frame, the Toyota o f ers a composed ride while absorbing the bumps of rough surfaces with skill and sure-footedness.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: Forget the previous 5.6-liter V8. It has been replaced by an outstanding i-FORCE MAX 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 hybrid engine paired with a bell-housing electric motor/generator. The 288V nickel-metal hydride battery sits under the rear seat. The result is 437 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 583 pounds-feet of torque at 2,400 rpm while mated to a 10-speed auto gearbox. Suspension has been totally revamped with a newly developed independent double-wishbone front while the rear gets a multilink with coil springs. The electric power rack-andpinion steering has a solid and communicative feel, making the pickup easy to place at sharp curves. Tow capacity is an astonishing 10,340 pounds.

LOOK & FEEL: Exclusive for our brawny, notched, athletic Capstone edition is a color-keyed outer frame grille while chrome decks up the inner mesh pattern, mirror caps, Tundra tailgate inserts and trim accents. Climb into the cabin and you won’t find a reason to complain about space, which is abundant, starting with 10-way power driver and four-way front-passenger, cooled/heated two-toned (black/white), semi-aniline seats. Gone is the small

7-inch infotainment screen, replaced by a massive 14-inch display atop the center stack. Toyota bu f s will love the traditional volume button for the audio. It stays! Clear digital gauges for speedometer, tachometer, tow gauges and fuel readings will be appreciated by any driver. The voltmeter, coolant temperature, fuel and engine oil pressure are easy to read. A dial on the dash o f ers the option of 2WD, 4X2Hi and 4X4Lo. There also is an adjustable tie-down cleat 5.5-foot-long bed that can haul 4-by-8 plywood sheets.

Other amenities include the dual auto AC, head-up display, power panoramic moonroof, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, 60/40 fold-up rear seat, power running board, rear door sunshades, easy lower-and-lift tailgate, American walnut woodgrain and overhead console.

SAFETY FIRST: The dual front airbags; side curtain airbag; front knee airbags; four-wheel antilock brakes; stability, traction and trailer sway controls; blind-spot monitor with rear-cross traffic alert; rearview camera; smart-stop technology; daytime running lights; and tire pressure monitoring system come at no cost. Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 includes a pre-collision system that detects pedestrians, lane departure/tracing assists and dynamic cruise control.

OUT THE DOOR: $73,530, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, P265/50R22; wheelbase, 145.7 inches; length, 233.6 inches; width: 80.2 inches; height: 78 inches; weight, 6,010 pounds; fuel capacity, 32.2 gallons; city, 19 mpg; highway, 22 mpg; website, www.toyota. com.

WHY DIG IT: This no-frills pickup from Toyota o f ers a powerful performance, imposing tow capacity and a cavernous cabin. But the gas mileage, especially in city, is a huge letdown.

ALEXSTRONG FOUNDATION HOSTS BASS TOURNAMENT TO SUPPORT YOUNG NOLA SALLING

The AlexStrong Foundation is hosting its seventh annual Bass Tournament to support a local Gibsonton kid battling leukemia on Saturday, May 13.

Nola Salling has been battling leukemia for two years now since being diagnosed at 5 years old. She is receiving treatment from St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Tennessee. Salling and her family are hoping she can get healthy enough to receive a bone marrow transplant to help fight the cancer.

“This is our seventh annual fishing tournament, and with these tournaments, and other fundraisers and the support of the community, we have been able to donate over $150,000 to local families in need,” said AlexStrong founder Lori Sumner.

The Bass Tournament will take place at the Grape Hammock Fish Camp on Lake Kissimmee, located at 1400 Grape Hammock Rd. in Lake Wales, for $60 per boat for one or two participants. The tournament will start at first safe light, followed by a weigh-in at 2 p.m. Participants can preregister on Facebook or register in person the morning of the event. Each pair can catch up to six bass, and first through third-place winners will receive a cash prize.

HILLSBOROUGH SCHOOLS SUMMER LEARNING PROGRAMS READY TO WELCOME CHILDREN THIS JUNE

By Lily Belcher

Following the fishing tournament, the AlexStrong Foundation will host a rafe. The rafe will have a mix of fishing/hunting gear, gift baskets, gift cards, kid items and other prizes.

In addition to raising money for Salling through the tournament and rafe, the AlexStrong Foundation is accepting individual donations and corporate sponsorships. Sponsor logos will be displayed on a banner at the event. All donations and sponsorships are tax-deductible.

“We are so thankful to the people that continue to donate and help support our mission to pay forward all the kindness that was shown to our family when Alex was sick. We love keeping his memory alive by helping other families,” said Lori.

The AlexStrong Foundation was started in memory of Alex Sumner, who died of cancer in 2017. The foundation is a nonprofit organization that supports families with children facing life-threatening illnesses. The money raised at the Bass Tournament will go to the Salling family to help fund treatments.

For more information on the AlexStrong Foundation or this year’s Bass Tournament and rafe, visit its Facebook page or contact Lori at 813-493-2557.

As our school year comes to a close, I know many parents are looking for ways to keep their students academically engaged over the summer through enriching programs that will spark their curiosity. Thankfully, Hillsborough County Public Schools ofers a wide variety of Summer Learning Programs (SLP) that can meet the needs of your student, all while allowing them to socialize and grow emotionally.

During the summer months, many children may find it difcult to form or maintain friendships with students their own age. There is also research that shows a student’s knowledge may decline during the summer months, especially in math and reading. A summer program can ofer a safe environment for children to explore a rigorous academic opportunity they’ve yet to learn, experience the outdoors and create new relationships with other learners in a program.

Hillsborough County Public Schools is ofering programs in multiple areas, including reading camps, outdoor water adventure camps, algebra boosters, STEM, cyber security and performing arts, among many others. For migrant students, HCPS ofers specialty programs that provide skills critical for success in a rigorous bilingual learning environment. Immigrant students from grades six to 11 can enroll in a program with a focus

By Superintendent Addison Davis

on the history and governmental infrastructure of the nation, state and city.

The summer calendar begins on Monday, June 12 and ends on Thursday, August 3, depending on the program. Classes are held Monday through Thursday; the holiday week of Tuesday, July 4 will hold classes on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

Not only will SLP allow students to be better prepared for the upcoming school year, but breakfast and lunch will also be provided for all students, and transportation will be available for eligible students.

Students that are eligible for academic programs will receive a Summer Learning Program notification letter with details, including dates, times and the assigned school. The district also has fee-based programs that can open children up to adventures and help them learn valuable new skills.

I encourage all families interested in learning about the Summer Learning Programs to visit www.hillsboroughschools. org to find the eligibility criteria and locations. Our website has detailed descriptions of each program’s benefits, along with the dates and times in which your child will be enrolled through the summer months. Our dedicated teachers, administrators and support staf are excited to welcome your children for the summer as we provide them with plenty of opportunities to learn, grow and have fun.

Te AlexStrong Foundation is raising money to support 7-year-old Nola Salling, who is battling leukemia.

BIKES FOR CHRIST HELPS THOSE WHO TRY TO HELP THEMSELVES

People who are trying to get their lives back on track often find many obstacles, such as lack of transportation, to be an impediment to their goal. In an efort to help those who are trying to help themselves, Bikes

For Christ was established in 2016.

According to the founder, Pat Simmons, “Our goal is to help those who are trying to help themselves.” Simmons added, “We work directly with case managers at agencies that provide services to those in need. If they feel an individual is truly making life-changing decisions for the better, and a bicycle would benefit them, they can place an order with us.”

Bikes For Christ also works with area employers and schools.

An example of this is the work Bikes For Christ does with the Hillsborough County Sherif ’s Department in its Reentry and Homeless Initiative. Another example is its work with Cove Behavior Health (formerly known as DACCO). Other organizations include Metropolitan Ministries, Catholic Charities and the Tampa Veterans Administration.

Bikes For Christ is an all-volunteer organization. It has approximately 10-11 volun-

By Kathy L. Collins

teers and has separate team members that work on the bike repairs and the deliveries. It also has volunteers that represent the organization at local chamber meetings and events. These include outreach events, outdoor markets and expos. At these events, the volunteers share the mission of Bikes For Christ.

Bikes For Christ are seeking donations of primarily men’s bikes. You can drop of men’s bikes at several local locations, including Beef ’O’ Brady’s, located at 210 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon; Brandon Bikeworks, located at 6048 Winthrop Town Centre Ave. in Riverview; and Jarrett Scott Ford, located at 2000 E. Baker St. in Plant City. If you cannot drop of your donation of a men’s bike, you can complete a form online to make arrangements for volunteers to pick up the bike.

Please note it is not accepting children’s bikes at this time.

In addition to donations of men’s bikes, Bikes For Christ is also in need of monetary donations. According to Simmons, “Our biggest need right now is a new building so we can continue to help those in need.”

For more information, please visit www. bikes4christ.com.

What You Can Do About Back Pain

Low Back pain is a $600 billion dollar industry in this country. That is outrageous! Musculoskeletal pain is unfortunately very mismanaged. Why make simple problems complex?

With all mechanical pain, there’s a ‘what’ and a ‘why’ — what the problem is and why it’s occurring in the first place. To achieve resolution, it’s crucial to not only identify and correct the problem at hand but address the behaviors which lead to the issue!

Here are some self-help tips:

• Keep moving!

• Avoid sitting for longer than 30-minutes at a time.

• Sit with upright posture with lumbar support.

• Take micro-breaks: stretch, take a stroll, grab a snack, move around.

• Take mental notes of what you are doing when your pain feels better or worse to identify any positional patterns.

NEW HORIZONS GROUP HOME CELEBRATES 24 YEARS

New Horizons Group Home has been part of the Brandon community for 24 years. They will be hosting an anniversary luncheon on Saturday, June 10. “This is a great opportunity to learn more about New Horizons and its history that has brought us to where we are today,” said Brenda Watkins of New Horizons Group Home Inc. “There will be a delicious lunch and a short presentation by our residents.”

New Horizons Group Home has been part of the Brandon Community for 24 years. It will be hosting an anniversary luncheon on Saturday, June 10.

Tickets for the organization’s upcoming luncheon are $25 for an individual ticket or $175 for a table of eight. Te deadline for purchasing tickets is Saturday, June 3.

In 1992, several parents, teachers and friends of members of the Special Ministries Department of First Baptist Church Brandon identified a need for long-term living facilities for developmentally disabled men and women. A committee was formed to investigate the requirements to undertake this task. Out of this group, New Horizons Group Homes was born.

The mission of New Horizons Group Homes is to provide a family-oriented Christian group home living environment that supports adults with disabilities to help them achieve their highest potential for independence through a variety of services emphasizing faith, family, choice, independence, dignity and respect. “It is amazing to look back to when New Horizons was just an idea with a group of people wanting to make it into a reality,” Watkins said. “We all wanted a Christian home with a family

By Libby Hopkins

atmosphere, and the most important thing to me is that it has remained just that. Our daughter has been in the home since the first one opened in June of 1999, and she loves being there. As parents, my husband and I are so happy when she is at our home and are also happy to see that she loves going back to her home. It has been so heartwarming to see how all of the residents have blossomed over the years. The very best part of this whole experience has been seeing how God has provided for all of our needs.”

New Horizons is home to 16 residents. “We have two homes for men and one for ladies, and we currently have openings for three men,” Watkins said. “Our homes are based on Christian principles and have a family atmosphere where our residents are encouraged to reach their full potential. They have gained a wonderful sense of independence while having 24/7 supervision. Six of our residents work in the community, while the others go to diferent day programs.”

Tickets for the organization’s upcoming luncheon are $25 for an individual ticket or $175 for a table of eight. The deadline for purchasing tickets is Saturday, June 3. If you’d like to learn more about New Horizons Group Homes, visit www.newhorizonshomes.org.

Bikes For Christ works with local organizations, employers and schools to get bikes to people who are trying to make truly life-changing decisions for the better. If a bike will beneft them, they can get a bike.

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR SUMMER 2023 SEMESTER AT HCC

Summer 2023 registration is open for all new and returning students at Hillsborough Community College (HCC). Classes begin on Monday, May 15 online and at all campus and satellite locations.

Registration is available at www. hccfl.edu/registernow for existing students. Registration and application information for new students can be found at www. hccfl.edu/admissions.

HCC ofers flexible class schedules and course delivery options, which allow students to study at their own pace without compromising their work or family obligations. Options include:

• On-campus, with face-to-face instruction and scheduled class meetings at one of HCC’s five campuses or satellite locations.

• Hybrid courses, which combine in-person and online delivery.

• Simulcast courses, which combine online video conferencing and an on-campus component.

• Online, with live class meetings. Faculty and students are online at the same time for the class meetings with additional

ALL PRO DAD CONTINUES GROWTH NATIONWIDE WITH SOLD OUT ANNUAL EVENT AND PROGRAMS

By Jonathan Hurst

Staf Report

online work done on their own.

• Online, with no mandatory live class meetings. Instructor communication and feedback is through Canvas.

• Flexible-start courses that start at various times throughout the semester, including one 12-week session, one 10-week session, one eightweek session and three five-week sessions.

Tuition at HCC is significantly less than the cost of public universities, private colleges and for-profit institutions. The college was recently listed as the only Florida college with the lowest net price among other U.S. two-year public institutions, via the U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).

Hillsborough Community College serves more than 42,000 students annually at its five campuses located throughout Tampa Bay. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate and baccalaureate degrees. For more information, visit the college website www.hccfl.edu.

Don’t Miss a Moment

MORNING COFFEE CONCERT

HOUGH FAMILY FOUNDATION MASTERWORKS

May

RAYMOND JAMES POPS

All Pro Dad, a Tampa-based nonprofit, has completed yet another successful event, this time on March 25 at Raymond James Stadium. The soldout All Pro Dad Experience event had over 1,000 dads and their kids in attendance. Attendees were able to engage in a variety of football-oriented activities from the start at 9 a.m. until the event ended at 12 Noon. There were football drills as well as tickle-tackle and touchdown dancing available across the field; plenty of laughter and smiles were also had.

While All Pro Dad might have started in Tampa, where it operates to this day, it has extended far across the nation, as there are now over 1,000 All Pro Dad chapters across over 40 states. This growth has allowed founder Mark Merrill to impact thousands of children and dads across the country.

“Over 20 years ago, former Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Indianapolis Colts head coach Tony Dungy and I founded All Pro Dad. With the mission to help fathers love and lead their families well, All Pro Dad o f ers resources, training and events. We believe a great way to help fathers become even better leaders in their families is by dedicating one minute a day, one hour a month and one day a year to this goal,” Merrill said.

With increasingly large national operations, All Pro Dad continues to maintain a strong presence in the Tampa

area, having 62 active chapters within Hillsborough County. These chapters have ingrained themselves within the culture of the schools and engage with the dads and kids in several ways, one of which is the breakfast program. Through this program, dads are able to have breakfast at school with their children, which in turn helps build their relationship through one-onone time and camaraderie with other dads and children. Attendance at these events can reach up to 200 dads and kids.

All Pro Dad has recently developed multiple new programs to help foster healthy relationships between dads and their children. One of these is a national curriculum for middle and high schools that allows for the All Pro Dad message to e f ectively reach all ages. An additional program Serve, , gives dads the opportunity to volunteer at the school to allow teachers and administrators to focus on what they do best: helping to provide the best educational environment for the kids. This could be anything from operating the car line in the mornings to lunch assistance, or any other applicable school need.

Through its numerous programs and extensive outreach, All Pro Dad is making a positive impact among youths and hopes to continue to do so in larger and larger ways. For more information, visit its website at www.allprodad.com or its Facebook page, All Pro Dad.

Kids and their dads were able to run out of the tunnel at the All Pro Dad Experience at Raymond James Stadium.

Dads and their kids engage in activities on the feld at Raymond James during the All Pro Dad Experience.

Michael Francis, Music Director

Summer 2023 classes begin on Monday, May 15 at Hillsborough Community College. Registration is open for all new and returning students at all its satellite and campus locations, including Brandon, Te Regent, SouthShore and Plant City.

CARDEL HOMES CELEBRATES 50TH YEAR IN BUSINESS

As an international new home builder with operations in Florida, Colorado, Alberta and Ontario, Cardel Homes marks its 50th year in business.

When asked about this landmark anniversary, Greg Graham, chief operating ofcer, said, “What an amazing accomplishment for a privately held, family-owned and operated company. With many unforgettable memories and such a long history, Cardel has earned a reputation among customers, developers and trades as a reliable long-term partner. Our charitable arm, Cardel Foundations, has supported a wide range of valuable initiatives that strengthen our communities, and community has stood at the forefront of Cardel’s vision since the construction of our very first home back in 1973.”

Cardel is a veteran in the residential development industry and now operates as an integrated homebuilder and land developer in four regions, ofering a wide range of products, including single-family homes, townhomes, condos and resort properties. Its experience and in-depth knowledge of residential projects and willingness to work collaboratively with others to meet common goals have led to success.

Ryan Ockey, chief executive ofcer, shared these thoughts on Cardel’s success: “We have been providing amazing homes for our customers for many years with fantastic

CANINE CABANA HAS BEEN CARING FOR COMMUNITY DOGS FOR 15 YEARS

By Jonathan Hurst

designs, superior quality and responsive customer service. Many of our loyal trade and supplier partners and our hardworking staf have been with us along the way, and we thank them all for helping us reach this historic milestone.”

Despite its growth over the last half a century, Cardel retains the best attributes of a privately held company: quick reflexes, a tight-knit management team and an ironclad dedication to quality and community.

“What an amazing journey it has been, starting from a humble beginning in our beloved Calgary and expanding to cover three corners and the middle of North America,” commented Del and Caryl Ockey, the founders of Cardel Homes. “We never dreamed of the good times, the hard times, the difculties and the successes those years would bring. Thanks for the memories and all the wonderful people that have made these years a reality: the best trades imaginable, the loyal associates, especially our staf and our amazing family. They are the reason we have these 50 years to celebrate.”

The Florida ofce of Cardel Homes is located at 3160 S. Falkenburg Rd. in Riverview. For information about Cardel Homes, its process or its communities, visit www. cardelhomes.com. For local communities, visit www.cardelhomes.com/tampa/.

with the knowledge to best support their loved one. Gain this knowledge at our NEW hybrid support groups being held via Zoom and in person at Tessera of Brandon. Hybrid

Canine Cabana has been engrained in the Southeastern Hillsborough County area culture for 15 years now and it celebrated the milestone with a double ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Greater Riverview and Valrico FishHawk chambers of commerce on May 1. The celebration included a variety of rescue and adoption agencies in addition to the many local vendors like Fox Fired Pizza and Florida Foam Factory providing fun for dogs and humans alike.

Co-founders Kendall Duncan and Angie Pickren have extensive experience in the animal care industry, as they got their start working for Busch Gardens caring for exotic animals. For over 15 years, the pair worked with a wide variety of animals like hyenas and hippos, sometimes showcasing the animals for education on shows such as The Jay Leno Show. Inspired by a need in their community, and their passion for dogs in particular, Duncan and Pickren came together to create Canine Cabana in 2008.

What started as a two-employee operation has grown immensely over the past 15 years. In the beginning, Canine Cabana could serve about 30 dogs a day, as its services were limited to boarding and a group day care with a self-service wash and 20 suites for the pets. There are now a variety of programs ofered in addition to the original two, such as daycare membership, individual play, enrichment daycare, private training, group training and spa/grooming

services. The facilities have expanded as well, going from 1 acre and two play yards to 3 acres and three play yards, as well as nature trails and a training facility, and more expansion is anticipated.

These services and facilities are just some of the ways that Canine Cabana ensures that when your dog stays with it, they are staying in luxury. All guests are well entertained, as they spend time with between 12-15 dogs of similar size and temperament after their orientation day.

“We train every new team member with industry leaders like The Dog Gurus’ Knowing Dogs 101 and 201. We love to have our team training and learning with webinars or conferences on continuing education, always learning what is new and better for the guests in our care. Our team is CPR and first aid certified. We have created a culture of inclusivity, safety and fun,” Duncan said.

What makes Canine Cabana stand out is their enrichment programs available for the dogs that have the pleasure of being a guest. These enrichment programs vary greatly, as your dog can engage in pool time, agility work, scent hunting or even art activities.

If you would like more information about the 15-year anniversary party or general information about Canine Cabana, please visit its Facebook page, Canine Cabana Florida, or its website at https://caninecabana.biz/.

Caryl and Del Ockey were school teachers before they decided to build homes. Te name was derived from the frst 3 letters of their frst names.

Local resident, Kent Hollman Regional President at Cardel Homes for over 26 years.

Co-Founders Angie Pickren and Kendall Duncan.

Rosie after graduating from training.

HIGH 5 INC. TO HOST FREE COMMUNITY EVENT FOR 60TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

By Lily Belcher

wanted to create a way to celebrate her forever,” said Spano. “… All proceeds benefit our special-needs education pillar by providing supplies and resources for projects just like this one.”

SIXTH GRADER AT RANDALL MIDDLE SCHOOL MOVES TO NATIONAL COMPETITION WITH FILM FINDING YOUR VOICE

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

High 5 Inc. is celebrating its 60th anniversary on Saturday, May 20 with free activities and games for the community and the dedication of their new memorial garden.

The event will be held to celebrate 60 years of teaching community members of all ages how to swim and be safe in the water. High 5 will host games, guest speakers, activities and food for those who come to the celebration.

“This will be a free community event where not only will we be celebrating 60 years of impact and driving our mission in the Brandon community and beyond, but we will also be hosting our Blue Wave Swim-A-Thon, Candy Corsi Memorial Garden Dedication, Pool Project Dedication [and] celebrating National Learn to Swim Day,” said director of family experience Jada Spano.

The Memorial Garden will be dedicated to Candy Corsi, former director of Training and Recreation for the Intellectually Disabled, Enhancing Their Natural Talents (TRIDENT), who passed away in 2021.

“Her two sons still remain in the program today, and High 5/Team TRIDENT

Team TRIDENT has learned hydroponics and basic craftsmanship skills during the construction of the memorial garden. While the garden is still being built, it will be dedicated at the event to encourage the community to visit in the future.

In addition to six decades of teaching individuals how to swim, High 5 has served the community with an emphasis on its five pillars: after-school, learn to swim, special-needs education, sports and recreation and community partnerships.

“We encourage families, friends, athletes, past/present program participants, community leaders and businesses, and everyone else, to come enjoy this memorable day with us,” said Spano.

The anniversary celebration will take place at the High 5 facility from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. High 5 is located of U.S. Highway 60 on Beverly Boulevard.

To donate to the memorial garden, visit https://qtego.net/donate/trident. For more information on the nonprofit organization, visit their website at www.high5inc.org or call 813-689-0908.

Through all the pressures of school, friends and social life that come with being a teenager, this is also a crucial time for teens to learn who they are. One sixth grader at Randall Middle School is encouraging her peers to push through the uncomfortable parts of being a young teen and focus on figuring out who you are through her film, Finding Your Voice

a sixth grader at Randall Middle School, is moving on to the national Refections competition for her flm, Finding Your Voice, after winning at the county and state levels. Pictured here are Auzriel Simmons, Bridget Bohan, Randall Principal Mawhinney and Arianna Jeans.

Bridget Bohan entered the Reflections Art Contest hosted by the National Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) with Finding Your Voice in the middle school age group. Bohan was awarded Florida’s first-place winner for her film starring some of her friends.

“I love creating videos and I wanted to send a positive message to other kids. My two friends, Arianna and Auzriel, supported the creation of this film with some amazing acting,” said Bohan.

In the competition, over 300,000 students in Pre-K through 12th grade submit their original art to compete based on a student-selected theme. The goal of this program is to help students explore their own minds, develop ideas, increase confidence and find a love for learning.

The theme for this year’s competition was ‘Show Your Voice.’

“I made this video to show everyone that there are many di f erent ways that people can express themselves, and sometimes it takes a while to figure it out, but that’s okay, just keep trying,” said Bohan.

Bohan’s film will now move on to the national competition, with results expected to be announced on May 1. Bohan will also be honored at the Florida State Reflections Awards Ceremony, which will be held at Apopka High School on Saturday, May 6.

“The contest gives students a great opportunity to exhibit their talents in creative and imaginative ways,” said Claire Mawhinney, principal at Randall Middle School. “Bridgett Bohan’s entry was an excellent example of a creative and expressive film in which she encouraged students to express themselves as individuals.”

Randall Middle School is excited to continue supporting Bohan as she inspires other teens through her art to find themselves.

Bridget Bohan,

Join High 5, Inc. on Saturday May 20th, 2023 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m for its 60th Anniversary Celebration.

If you would like to donate to the memorial gardens, please scan the QR code.

PET OWNERS CAN TURN TO THE HILLSBOROUGH PET RESOURCE CENTER IN TIMES OF NEED

The Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center, located at 440 N. Falkenberg Rd. in Tampa, is the only open-admission facility in the county. This means that they will accept any cat or dog regardless of breed, size and medical condition. No animal is ever turned away.

Scott Trebatoski is the director of the Resource Center. About eight years ago, the name was changed to the current name. Trebatoski explained, “We want all pet owners to know that we are the first-place pets. We are here to help, and if we cannot, we will refer the owner to somewhere that can.”

Prior to the pandemic, under Trebatoski’s direction, the Pet Resource Center developed a pet retention program. Trebatoski explained, “We work with individual pet owners for the purpose of making sure the owner can retain the pet. If the owner feels they need to give up the pet due to reasons such as financial issues, we will work to get the pet stable and keep them in the shelter, or, if we need to, send the pet to a foster home. The owner can then get the pet back once their issues are resolved.”

In addition to this program, if a pet

BELL CREEK ACADEMY PITCHER FRITSCH THROWS PERFECT GAME;

SECOND OF HIS CAREER

By Kathy L. Collins

owner is in need of food for the pet, it has a food pantry for pets. Trebatoski said, “If, for example, someone is getting Meals on Wheels, we do not want them giving half of their food to their pet.” You can also get a pet gate, crate or bowls if you need them. The center gets a lot of donations for those in need. Trebatoski said, “This community is very animal friendly.”

The Pet Resource Center will work with pet owners in order to protect the community. As such, if a pet needs a rabies shot, they will get it. If there are behavior issues, it can help with that too.

According to Trebatoski, it is working to implement a program where pets can get a microchip for free. If a pet gets lost, animal control can return the pet. Trebatoski said, “Underserved communities would be served by such a program because they often face transportation issues.”

The bottom line is that pets are very important to those who have them, and it is economically efcient to help pet owners keep their pets rather than shelter them.

For more information, please visit www. Hillsboroughcounty.org or call 301-PETS (7387).

Bell Creek Academy senior pitcher Tyler Fritsch realized he was in the midst of a special outing in the fourth inning when he noticed the opposing lead-of hitter taking practice swings in the on-deck circle between innings. Fortunately, Fritsch had been in the exact same spot the prior year against the same team and knew what it would take to be perfect.

“My fastball was very much on, I could throw it wherever I wanted it,” he said. “I noticed that the zone was consistently low and I could just hit my spot every time with my fastball, and my changeup was on too, so it was really easy to keep the batters of balance with the fastball-changeup combination.”

The pressure was of of Fritsch because he had already thrown a perfect game against Cambridge Christian last year. He has carried the confidence from that game into his hot start early this season.

“I didn’t think much about it because I came in with the mentality that I already threw one,” said Fritsch. “I go into every game thinking, ‘You already threw a perfect game, so you can’t really do much better, so don’t think about it too much.’ If I lost it, I wasn’t going to be too concerned about it, so I just kept dealing with that poise and composure, I guess. You can’t beat a perfect game, it’s about as good as it gets.”

Fritsch was on the same page as his battery mate, senior catcher Jacob Ananias,

By Nick Nahas

who was calling the pitches. The pitcher was comfortable with his catcher, who previously caught all of his starts this season. Fritsch only needed 66 pitches in six innings while striking out 12 batters to complete the perfect game. The Panthers mercy-ruled the Lancers.

“My reaction after the last out was relief and shock because by the fourth inning, everyone knew what was going on and all we wanted to do was keep from jinxing it,” said Ananias. “I have never caught a perfect game before and, I gotta say, it’s a great thing to be a part of.”

The senior enjoyed his second career perfect game a little more than the first because he was able to record the last out and finish the game on the mound. His team’s 10-run ruled Cambridge Christian in the bottom of the inning on ofense the last time.

“I am so grateful that I was able to be a part of something so special and am glad I get to catch a pitcher of this level,” said Ananias.

The pitcher ranks this achievement as his favorite moment of his career. He gives credit to his coach, Frank Burke, who he’s played with for seven seasons at Bell Creek.

“It doesn’t take a perfect outing every time to win games,” said Fritsch. “My team trusts me a lot, so it makes it a lot easier to go out and do my job when you know that everyone has your back.”

Te Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center, located at 440 N. Falkenberg Rd. in Tampa, is the local resource for pet owners facing a multitude of issues.

Photo courtesy of Shadarra Welton. Tyler Fritsch knew he was throwing a perfect game by the fourth inning.

LOCAL RESIDENTS WILL RUN FOR BRANDON’S HONORARY MAYOR IN JUNE

The annual Brandon Honorary Mayor race will officially kick off on Thursday, June 1 for community leaders who will raise money to support local charities. This year, Jorgie Franks, sales and business development coach, and Danielle Stevens, owner of Vine Vegan, will be running for the position, which will be announced at the Fourth of July Parade.

Franks has lived in Brandon since 11th grade, graduating from Bloomingdale High School before attending Hillsborough Community College in Brandon and transferring to the University of South Florida. She decided to fun run for honorary mayor while working at the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce in 2018.

“I have worked in Brandon, FL in many capacities at many of the stores, schools and organizations we visit every day,” said Franks. “[At the chamber of commerce], I was in charge of adding members, which made me reach out to the business community and begin the diversity and inclusion council.”

During her race, Franks will donate the funds she raises to the Kiwanis Club of Greater Brandon, Women Centered 4 Success and Family Promise of Hillsborough County.

Franks has worked with the Kiwanis Club, which partners with schools to provide education, mentorship and leadership opportunities for students.

About Women Center 4 Success, which Franks works at as a coach, she said, “I was there seven years ago when this organization was being conceptualized. It was a vision to have the elderly women give their mentorship and coaching to the younger women and today.”

She chose to support Family Promise

of Hillsborough County as her last nonprofit because it assists homeless families without separating the individuals.

“Before 2018, I had never even heard of an honorary mayor race,” said Franks. “I have held leadership positions before, but this would be the one where I can leave money for charities. What an honor.”

Stevens moved to Florida eight years ago, living with her family in Valrico. After working for over 20 years of corporate work experience, Stevens opened a plant-based restaurant in 2022, Vine Vegan, after identifying a need for it in the Brandon community.

“I am passionate about my mission: bringing people together over food, cap -

By Lily Belcher

turing the culture of community and using ridiculously delicious vegan food to do it,” said Stevens.

Stevens will be raising money for the Impact Program, Hope for Her and A Kid’s Place throughout June for the honorary mayor race.

“I choose these charities because they help causes that are very personal and near to my heart,” said Stevens.

Impact educates students, parents and teachers on how to have healthy relationships and avoid sexual risk. Hope for Her offers a safe place for women to find strength, skills and support after experiencing trauma. Finally, A Kid’s Place provides foster care for children from abusive homes.

“My goal is to secure financial resources to my selected charities while creating interaction between our community and its environment, all while by increasing my involvement, and encouraging others to do so too,” said Stevens.

In order to raise the funds, Stevens has organized a number of events that will take place throughout June.

“We have something for everyone,” she said. “We are going to have a grand kickoff on June 1 at my restaurant, Vine Vegan, at 5 p.m., where there will be raffles and door prizes and the opportunity to purchase advanced tickets to all my events in June.”

Her team is also planning a movie night featuring Guardians of the Galaxy, a Tory Burch Bingo on Thursday, June 22 at the Winthrop Barn and other fun events, like a comedy night, silent dance party, bingo at Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. and an online auction. Ticket sales will begin on June 1 and can be purchased by visiting ‘Danielle for Brandon Mayor’ on Facebook.

Jorgie Franks is running for honorary mayor and will support the Kiwanis Club of Greater Brandon, Women Centered 4 Success and Family Promise of Hillsborough County.

Danielle Stevens will support the Impact Program, Hope for Her and A Kid’s Place with the money raised during the honorary mayor race.

Jorgie Franks

Danielle Stevens

HEATH WEALTH MANAGEMENT MAKES CUSTOMERS MAIN FOCUS

With over 20 years as a financial professional, Elijah Heath of Heath Wealth Management is dedicated to helping individuals and families pursue their financial goals.

He uses his established processes in an efort to address quality investments with the appropriate financial goal, taking into consideration each client’s comfort zone, risks and volatility into account. His experience through many diferent market cycles provides the understanding to help his clients structure the proper portfolio allocation in striving to weather the storms of uncertainty.

Heath has lived in the Brandon area for more than 45 years. “I grew up here and raised my children here,” Heath said. “I recently downsized and moved to downtown Tampa. I have been helping my clients with financial planning for 23 years. In 2019, I went out on my own and started Heath Wealth Management.”

In addition, he is a past president of the Rotary Club of Bloomingdale/FishHawk, having served on the board in a number of diferent capacities over the years, and is the co-founder of this club’s successful ongoing fundraiser, the Winthrop Crawfish Festival, which has raised in excess of $100,000 for local charities. He earned the title of 2013 Honorary Mayor of Riverview as a result of the funds he’s raised. “I am

By Libby Hopkins

committed to making our community a better place to live, work and play,” Heath said.

If you ask Heath what makes his business diferent from other wealth management companies in the area, he will tell you it’s that he and his team are focused on you, the client.

“It’s about our clients, not us,” Heath said.

“My staf and I help our clients identify and prioritize their long-term goals. We listen to what is important and work together through their lives to help keep them on track. We help to identify potential blind spots that could cause them to fall short of their goals and create strategies to manage these risks. We focus on retirement, investments, tax, estate, insurance and education planning.”

Keeping things local is also important to Heath and his team. “We are not a bigbox brokerage shop with a one-size-fits-all cookie-cutter approach,” Heath said. “We customize our plans to fit the needs and expectations of our clients. We are big supporters of keeping things local and helping other small businesses within our community.”

If you’d like to learn more about the services ofered at Heath Wealth Management, visit its website at https://heathwealth.com/ or call Heath at 813-556-7171. Its ofce is located at 620 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. SEEKS

GASPARILLA FLOAT SPONSORS FOR NEW 321 KREWE

By Lily Belcher

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Down Syndrome Special Needs

West Florida Inc. is starting a special needs Gasparilla krewe to raise awareness for those with Down syndrome and create a safe and accepting atmosphere for individuals and their families.

“I’ve always thought that there has to be a way to integrate our special needs community into the typical community to give them an insight and look to down syndrome, autism and special needs adults and how they’re doing something that everybody takes for granted,” said F.R.I.E.N.D.S. executive director Ann Foyt.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. stands for families, respect, inspire, educate, Down syndrome, special needs. To include their members in the annual Gasparilla festivities, it created a krewe.

The Gasparilla 321 Krewe was started this year with hopes of F.R.I.E.N.D.S. having its own float for over 100 members with Down syndrome or other special needs. The Krewe is named 321 to represent the third copy of the 21st chromosome that leads to Down syndrome.

“For right now, I think we are just going to put together a krewe. … I’m sure it’s

going to be easy because when I pitched this to the community, I had such a big response. So, I know it would be really popular,” said Foyt.

In order to have its own float, F.R.I.E.N.D.S. needs to raise money to build or purchase a parade float. The nonprofit is looking for sponsors to help fund the purchase of a float or pirate costumes for its members.

“We have a wonderful community. The special needs community here in Tampa is very supportive of each other,” said Foyt. F.R.I.E.N.D.S. is also hosting a bingo and brunch fundraiser on Saturday, May 20 to raise money for its organization. The event will take place at the Lucaya Lake Clubhouse from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and will ofer designer bags and rafe baskets as prizes. Tickets for the event cost $50 in advance online or $60 at the door and come with 10 bingo cards, brunch and drinks, including a taste of local wines. F.R.I.E.N.D.S. is a Tampa Bay-area nonprofit that provides special needs resources, information and support for families. For more information, visit www.friendssupport.org or call 813-245-2782.

With over 20 years as a fnancial professional, Elijah Heath of Heath Wealth Management is dedicated to helping individuals and families pursue their fnancial goals.

GETTING A CHILD TO APPRECIATE MATH

For some students, math skills come easily, as do the aptitudes needed to be a successful math student: analyzing patterns, thinking logically and critically and solving problems. However, for others, math concepts are di f cult to grasp, and the more complex they become, the more students want to give up altogether.

If your child isn’t one of the fortunate students for which math ‘clicks’ e f ortlessly, it may not be possible for you to convince him or her to like math. However, you can encourage your child to appreciate math for the practical and useful life skill that it is. Here are a few tips on how to help your student appreciate math and its importance.

Point out math in everyday life. You don’t have to look too hard to find math in day-to-day life — from weather forecasting to telling time to using cell phones and computers. From the time your child is old enough to understand the basic concepts of math, highlight math being used everywhere you go.

Call attention to math in various careers. Certainly, it’s easier to see why professionals in accounting, engineering and science need math. However, the reality is that math is a skill required by many jobs. For business owners and entrepreneurs, math is an essential part of the company’s purchasing, budgeting, finances and other functions. Those working in real estate or sales likely have monthly sales targets to meet in order to earn carefully calculated bonuses. Landscapers or architects use math skills to create scaled drawings and to calculate

By Dr. Raymond J. Huntington

and order the right amounts of supplies. Use money. Your child might not enjoy worksheets of math problems, but there’s a good chance he or she is interested in money — or at least interested in earning money. Help your child open his or her first bank account and teach him or her how to maintain the savings register. Together, calculate how much interest he or she could earn each month based on the account’s interest rate. Put together a spreadsheet that gives your child a weekly savings goal to save up for that iPad.

Discuss your own relationship with math. Does your child see you using math? Be sure to explain how and where you use math in your daily life. If you maintain the family budget, have your child help you with this task so he or she gets a sense of how your family keeps track of your income, expenses, savings and more. Show your child how you use math in cooking and when comparison shopping.

Your child might never feel enthusiastic about math, but with some effort on your part, you can impart in him or her an appreciation for the importance of the subject. Look around and you will find a multitude of opportunities to show your child math in use — from complex math to everyday math.

Keep in mind that math is a subject that requires students to continually build skills. If your child struggles with basic concepts, more complex math will only prove frustrating. If your child is struggling, call Huntington. We can design a customized program to help your child overcome any problems with math and get back on the road to school success.

Helping Your Child Learn Math by Eileen and Raymond Huntington o f ers tips, strategies and activities to help your child learn math at home and on the go.

NEW WELL PLANNED TO INCREASE WATER SUPPLY

Not many things seem as sure as turning on a water faucet to get a steady stream of drinking water, unless you live or work in some parts of Southern Hillsborough County, where demand is challenging the supply and, at times, the flow can be reduced to a trickle.

The increase in demand for water is driven by growth in Southeastern Hillsborough County, which is seeing more residents move into new homes every day. To help meet that growing need, Tampa Bay Water is implementing a plan to increase the amount of water flowing to that part of the utility’s service area.

An agreement with Hillsborough County means Tampa Bay Water can move forward with plans to create an additional drinking water well in Southern Hillsborough County that could provide an additional 2.3 million gallons of water daily to the area.

“The water will be locally sourced and locally used,” said Warren Hogg, chief science ofcer for Tampa Bay Water. “Not only will it help meet the county’s needs, but it will also free up 2.3 million gallons of water per day from the regional system.”

The ability to draw the additional water from a Southern Hillsborough County

By Brad Stager

source is due to the installation of reclaimed water injection wells along the area’s coastline that prevent saltwater from contaminating inland water supplies. Ofcials said the reclaimed treated wastewater will not intrude into drinking water supplies. Water from the new well could be flowing through south county pipes by 2026, said Tampa Bay Water ofcials, who anticipate growing demand throughout its regional service area that includes Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties, as well as the cities of Tampa, St. Petersburg and New Port Richey. Currently, the utility provides drinking water to 2.5 million people, a number that grows daily with new arrivals to the area. According to Tampa Bay Water, that means an additional 1020 million gallons of new water per day will be needed to serve customers for the 10-year period 2028-38.

Other Tampa Bay Water projects intended to ensure drinking water to the area include a new booster station in Brandon that will send more water to the treatment plant in Lithia by the end of the year and construction of a new regional pipeline to deliver more water to Southern Hillsborough County by 2028.

Tampa Bay Water has plans to increase the supply of drinking water to Southern Hillsborough County.

It’s Fun To Volunteer At ECHO

Are you looking for volunteer opportunities in Brandon, Riverview and the surrounding areas? ECHO needs people who are excited to volunteer so that it can help as many families in the area as possible. It has something for everyone. If you have not volunteered with ECHO before, you must attend a short New Volunteer Orientation before your first time. One opportunity, the Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive, is taking place on Saturday, May 13, and ECHO will need lots of volunteers. Visit www.echofl.org/ volunteer to register.

Introduction To Tai Chi Classes

The Taoist Tai Chi Society invites you to learn more about the art of tai chi and the flexibility, strength and stillness that can be achieved through it. There will be introductory sessions at Brandon Christian Church, located at 910 Bryan Rd. in Brandon, on Tuesdays from 10-11 a.m. and at Julestarz Academy, located at 16131 Fishhawk Blvd. in Lithia, on Thursdays from 11 a.m.12 Noon. For more information, contact the head ofce at 727-734-0929 or visit www.taoisttaichi.org.

East Hillsborough Democratic Club Meetings

The May meeting of the Hillsborough Democratic Club will take place at the Brandon Crossroads Bowl, located at 609 Crater Ln. in Tampa, on Tuesday, May 9 at 6:30 p.m. It will welcome Danny M. Gallagher, E.I. recycling coordinator at the Solid Waste Department, as speaker. Visit the club calendar on its website, www.easthillsboroughdems.org, to

check for updates and attend via Zoom. The club is also sponsoring a free community picnic on Saturday, May 6, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at Paul Sanders Park, 602 W. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. Hamburgers, hot dogs and chicken will be provided, along with sodas and water.

Public Input Sought For Golden Aster Scrub Nature Preserve

The Golden Aster Scrub Nature Preserve is an almost 1,200-acre conservation area in Gibsonton. It contains upland and wetland communities that support a diverse array of native plant and animal species. It also has marked trails for hiking and is an outstanding location to watch local wildlife. Hillsborough County residents are invited to review updates to the management plan for this preserve at a 6 p.m. in-person meeting on Wednesday, May 10 at Bell Creek Nature Preserve, located at 10940 McMullen Rd. in Riverview. Also, feedback can be given by visiting www.hcflgov.net/ hcengage.

Mother’s Day Charity Gift Fair At Twin Lakes Of Brandon

Twin Lakes of Brandon is hosting a gift fair on Saturday, May 6 to support the Fishhawk Lions Club. The event will be held in beautiful Zeina Park, located at 3054 Lake Michaela Blvd. in Valrico, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. There will be a wide variety of vendors with something for everyone to enjoy, and lots of items perfect for Mother’s Day gifts.

Forever Family Market

The Sylvia Thomas Center at 500 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Brandon is hosting a Forever Family Market on Saturday, May 6 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Come out and see items from a wide variety of local vendors, including jewelry, wooden signs, resin art, candles and much more. Make sure that you visit the Sylvia Thomas Center tent

CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE IS BACK AT RP FUNDING WITH FIVE ALL-NEW ICONIC CONCERTS

of Nirvana, Stone Temple Pilots, Alice in Chains, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden and others on Friday, December 15.

The start time for all performances is 7:30 p.m.

Are You Ready to Rock?

The RP Funding Center is excited to announce the 2023 series lineup for Classic Albums Live, as it returns with five iconic album performances. The RP Funding Center would like to thank Southern Homes for coming on board as an event sponsor for the 2023 series. Performed “note for note, cut for cut,” the Classic Albums Live Concert Series starts of on Thursday, May 18 with a selection voted as one of Rolling Stone magazine’s ‘Greatest Albums of All Time,’ Tom Petty’s Damn the Torpedoes

Then, on Sunday, July 16, an album which has sold over 18 million copies worldwide, Supertramp’s Breakfast in America, followed by the platinum rock ’n’ roll Led Zeppelin album Physical Graffiti on Sunday, August 27, which combines several musical styles into one eclectic masterpiece. Next is the widely acclaimed, chart-topping 1983 album Synchronicity by the Police on Thursday, October 19, and wrapping up the series is Classic Albums Live’s Lithium Show, featuring the music

To see all five of these great performances performed “note for note, cut for cut,” then look no further and become a Classic Albums Live Series subscriber. For $170, you get a ticket to each concert, preferred seating, free parking and 10 percent of concessions, plus a savings of over $30 when purchasing a subscription.

The new-subscriber series passes are on sale now. Single tickets go on sale starting Friday, April 21 at 9 a.m. Service charges may apply. Series passes are available by visiting the RP Funding Center Box Office or calling 863-834-8111. For event information, visit www.rpfundingcenter. com. Dates and ticket prices are subject to change without notice.

The RP Funding Center is conveniently located minutes between Orlando and Tampa in Lakeland, of I-4 on Lime Street, just a short drive from anywhere in Central Florida. Regular box ofce hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. For ticket information, call the center’s box office or visit its website.

Compiled

On February 24 and 25, riders from A Horse’s Touch participated in the annual Florida Special Olympics held at the Bakas Equestrian Center in Tampa. Competing against individuals from across Pasco, Pinellas and Hillsborough counties, A Horse’s Touch was represented by four riders, all of whom placed in the trail and equitation events this year: 12-year-old twins, a 13-year-old female and a 19-year-old male.

Residing in the FishHawk and Riverview areas, each of these riders trained for one year under the founder of A Horse’s Touch, Mercedes McClellan, regardless of their level of experience in competition. Riders faced a series of challenges during the Special Olympics, such as having to walk over cavaletti poles and making their horse retreat three steps backward independently.

Both twins placed fourth in the trail event; in the equitation event, one was awarded third and the other fourth. The female placed fifth in both the trail and equitation events, and the male was awarded third in both the trail and equitation events. McClellan cites that witnessing their accomplishments and her riders’ pride as the most rewarding aspect.

“This is the greatest experience a coach can have — when you look over and see their parents tear up to watch their son

By Madeline Gardner

or daughter win a ribbon,” said McClellan. While the Florida Special Olympics was not hosted in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID-19, A Horse’s Touch has otherwise competed in these annual events since 2018. In 2019, McClellan’s students advanced to and competed at the state level in Ocala.

Seeking to secure and further these opportunities for motivated individuals, A Horse’s Touch welcomes those with varying conditions, such as attention deficit disorder (ADD) and cerebral palsy. Furthermore, foster children and those who have sufered previous abuse are also encouraged to become involved.

In addition to A Horse’s Touch, McClellan ofers other programs. This includes the Work Exchange (WE) program, an opportunity for students interested in the Bright Futures Scholarship Program to contribute help around the property in return for lessons on various topics, such as fundamental riding skills and learning to care for the horses. Horse camps for children, birthday parties and horse recitals are also featured activities of McClellan’s.

For more information about A Horse’s Touch, visit https://ahorsestouch.godaddysites.com/. Further details can be found by emailing mmbarn4@gmail.com or calling 813-992-0743. A Horse’s Touch is located at 12435 Cody Dr. in Wimauma.

COME SEE FREE MOVIES ON THE SECOND FRIDAY OF EACH MONTH IN PLANT CITY

Plant City Mainstreet ofers many events in downtown Plant City. This includes a brand-new event, Friday Night Flix. The free outdoor movies are held on the second Friday of each month starting at about 7 p.m., but you are encouraged to come early and shop or browse about the downtown area.

Plant City Mainstreet ofers lots of events for the community. It has been hosting Last Friday in Plant City for several years. Now, it has a new event on the second Friday of each month called Friday Night Flix.

Plant City Mainstreet will set up a big screen in McCall Park (on Evers Street and J. Arden Mays Boulevard). Families and friends can bring a blanket and enjoy a fun, family-friendly movie.

Dawn Hyatt, executive director for Plant City Mainstreet, said, “This is a way for our downtown to reintroduce itself to our community. Our downtown merchants will stay open until 7 p.m. for shoppers to enjoy, and then the movie will play at 7 p.m.”

Hyatt added, “We wanted to create a fun family atmosphere while giving back to our entire community.”

Some of the merchants which will participate include Three Hands Mead Company, Roots, The Crafted Butterfly, Spirit Art Gallery, Aim Lighting, the Plant City Card Shop, The Side Quest, Rowan & Plum, Krazy Kup, Brick City Bricks, TubTreats and Plant City Community Bingo.

Over the next few months, the following

By Kathy L. Collins

movies are scheduled to be shown. In May, an anime movie will be shown. In June, you can see The Goonies. In July, come celebrate the birthday of The Boy Who Lived with a showing of one of the Harry Potter movies. In August, it will show Avengers In September, you can see Lord of the Rings. In October, get into the spooky spirit with a showing of Nightmare Before Christmas In November, you will not want to miss A Christmas Story. Finish out 2023 in December with a showing of Christmas classics. Hyatt said, “The mission of Plant City Main Street is to preserve, maintain and improve our historic downtown district and its quality of life by bringing our downtown into tomorrow without forgetting its yesterday. We accomplish this in many ways. Building strong relationships with our merchants, residents, property owners, city government and community is vital. Main Street is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and works of of a four-point approach: organization, design, economic vitality and promotion. The Main Street Approach helps guide us in revitalizing our downtown. We have many benefits to ofer.” For information, visit www.plantcitymainstreet.org.

A Horse’s Touch was represented by four riders this year at the Florida Special Olympics competition.

Local commuters and residents wanting to keep their vehicles spotless have gained several new car wash options recently with multiple Woodie’s Wash Shack, ModWash and Tidal Wave Auto Spa locations opening, as well as even more planned to compete against established local operations such as Jules Car Wash. Many have been wondering why this area has seen such sudden and unexpected growth in the express carwash industry.

“We believe nearly a thousand new stores per year are being built in the U.S.,” said Eric Wulf, CEO of the International Carwash Association. “Over the past 20 years, consumer preferences have shifted from ‘do it yourself’ to ‘do it for me.’ Sunshine states have historically been popular for car wash services.”

From an investor’s perspective, the express car wash business model is a marathon, not a sprint; with the high initial cost of land and construction eventually ofset by leaving income moving forward going — hopefully — mainly towards profit. With minimal annual employee cost and expenses, including water, electricity, maintenance, insurance and taxes, it is about as close to passive income as can be found by investors in the massively lucrative automotive in-dustry.

Tampa Bay is especially appealing to developers in the car wash business due to our relatively low number of already existing locations, as well as the high carto-household ratio. With the influx of new residents moving into the area, most commuting longer distances, vehicles get dirtier faster. Add in construction dirt, pollen dust, salty air and the occasional lovebug invasion and the demand is here.

Valued at over $15B in 2022, projected growth for the industry is to remain between 4-5 percent through 2030 due to the focus of consumers toward vehicle maintenance. The most cited reasons for the explosion of the express car wash business model include the success of the subscription programs ofered, coupled with low operating and labor costs associated with conveyor-belt systems.

Express car washes, also known as

By Brian Bokor

tunnel washes or conveyer washes, are almost fully auto-mated, require very little labor and use conveyor or belt equipment to move vehicles through the car washing process. Most ofer doit-yourself vacuums, with some having optional detail-ing services. They are consistently the most profitable in the car wash sector in the U.S., where more than 72 percent of drivers use professional car wash services an average of 13 times per year.

“Thanks to the widespread digitization of money, it’s easier to get banks on board these days. Banks weren’t really favorable of the business model in the past because it was mostly a cash-run business, but with memberships paid digitally now responsible for 90 percent of the in-come and only 10 percent cash, lenders are more receptive when it comes to financing,” said Glen Stygar, partner/ vice president of operations for Woodie’s Wash Shack.

When asked about the saturation of car washes in close proximity, Stygar sees it another way. “We don’t look at competition, we have a market plan to build over 50 stores on the west coast of Florida,” Stygar said. Like Wulf, he believes the shift in consumer habits towards do-itfor-me parallels the growth of express oilchange business.

“I believe our competition is your driveway. We’re pulling people out of the driveway, just like we used to change our own oil,” Stygar said. “We see that happening in the car wash industry. You stay in your car and buzz through the tunnel in three minutes. Why use up to 120 gallons of your water when you get it done here using 30 gallons of ours? It’s a far more efcient use of water, and it’s quicker. Multiple locations near where you work, where you live and where you play give everyone the option of cleaning their ride whenever they find the time. We are also expanding into neighborhood developments with well-established tenants, such as Starbucks and Wawa, welcoming us as neighbors” due in part to the modern architecture used to design-ing Woodie’s

HILLSBOROUGH SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT PRESENTS AWARDS, SCHOLARSHIPS AND MINI GRANTS

By Kathy L. Collins

ton and her staf

Two scholarships were awarded as well. The Michael Hepburn Memorial Scholarship was presented to Madison Leiner, and the Ro Gene Davis Scholarship was given to Morgan Chancey.

On April 12, the Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District held a festive luncheon where it awarded several supporter awards, scholarships and mini grants. Funding for the scholarships and mini grants came from its annual Great Plant Auction held at the Hillsborough County Fair.

The Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District held a ceremony on April 12 at The Regent. At the luncheon, the Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District presented awards to several local agencies and organizations, two scholarships and 16 mini grants.

Betty Jo Tompkins, executive director, said, “The idea for the luncheon started in 2016. The luncheon and awards represent the very thing that the Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District stands for, and that is that conservation is everybody’s business. It is the responsibility of everyone to conserve and preserve nature.”

Several leaders of local agencies were recognized for their support. The Outstanding Supporter of the Year award was given to Hillsborough Property Appraiser Bob Henriquez and his staf. The Outstanding Project of the Year award went to the Hillsborough County Fair. The Outstanding Cooperative Partner award was awarded to Environmental Protection Commission executive director Janet Lur-

The mini grants are new for this year. The funding for the grants came as a result of the Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District’s Great Plant Auction held annually at the Hillsborough County Fair.

There were 16 mini grants in the amount of $250 awarded. Each mini grant project proposal required at least one adult and four students participating in the project. Tompkins said, “When we came up with the idea for the mini grants, we thought that we would give out 12, but there were so many great project proposals that we decided to give out 16.”

The grant recipients included Apollo Beach Elementary School, Brandon High School FFA Chapter, Cub Scout Pack 37, Boy Scout Troop 109, Dunbar Elementary Magnet School, Ryan Flugel’s Eagle Scout project, Girl Scout Troop 3518, Graham Elementary AGP Gardens, Hillsborough County 4-H, Lopez Agriculture Classes, Pizzo K-8 School Garden Club, Raise the Bar 4-H Club, SCUBAnauts International (Tampa Chapter), Springhead Elementary Fifth Grade Lunch Bunch/Tutoring Group, Temple Terrace Elementary School Green Team and Winthrop Arts.

For more information, please visit www. hillsboroughswcd.com.

OIL CHANGE & TIRE ENGINEERS IS A ONE-STOP SHOP

Jeremy Persinger is the owner and operator of Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers, located in Riverview. His Riverview business has been family-owned and operated since 2020. Persinger had another location that he opened in Bradenton in 2018. “I started with corporate Express Oil Change in 2015,” Persinger said. “Express Oil Change was in express expansion mode, and they had just acquired Tire Engineers, so they brought me on to help grow both businesses because they knew they were going to co-brand the businesses.”

Persinger said that many businesses call themselves a one-stop shop, but he feels his business truly is one. “A lot of places can do your oil changes very quickly, but they can’t do tires or mechanical services,” Persinger said. “So, if you need brakes or other vehicle services, they have to send you somewhere else. We are really one of the national brands that can do both.”

If you ask Persinger what he likes most about what he does at Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers, he will tell you: everything. “I truly love being a part of the team, and I love interacting with our customers. We’ll even make you a cup of cofee if you ask.”

By Libby Hopkins

In order to deliver a consistent customer experience every time, Persinger’s advice is, “Don’t do anything you don’t already do on a daily basis.”

Persinger is also active with the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation and has been on the board since 2008, chairing two fishing events as well as the marketing committee for the foundation.

SOUTHSHORE INSURANCE PROFESSIONALS EXPANDS AND NOW OFFERS LIFE INSURANCE

Michelle Mosher is celebrating her nine-year anniversary of ofering business and personal insurance to Hillsborough County residents through Southshore Insurance Professionals.

By Lily Belcher

tion. We are deeply rooted in our community and are local supporters of all things Southeastern Hillsborough County. We love it here and we love our clients,” said Mosher.

2020.

Since becoming a part of the organization, they have raised over $30 million towards fighting Pediatric Cancer and have watched the survival rate go from three out of five kids to four out of five kids in that time frame. “Each clinical trial we put these kids through costs about $15K,” Persinger said. “We pay for all of it for them, and we pray for a day that there is not a need for what we do at the Pediatric Cancer Foundation.”

Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. and on Saturday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; it is closed on Sunday.

For more information about Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers, visit its website at www.expressoil.com/stores/riverview/ fl/0831/ or call 813-499-9606. The shop is located at 11690 Boyette Rd. in Riverview, next to Culver’s.

Mosher opened the company in March of 2014 after working in the insurance industry for 20 years. The Seminole County native moved to Tampa and started working as a medical and dental claims processor. She then transitioned to insurance sales and service and went on to having her own agency.

“The most rewarding part of what we do is helping someone when the unexpected happens to them and being there for them during their time of need with a claim,” said Mosher.

Southshore Insurance Professionals offers personal and commercial insurance to meet the needs of over 1,500 clients. The Riverview agency ofers home, auto, boat, ATV, RV and business insurance. Mosher also reobtained her license to write life insurance at the beginning of the year to meet a need she saw among her clients. Southshore Insurance Professionals is also a member of the Insurance Agency Owners Alliance.

“I believe our mission to educate our clients and community about insurance and coverage sets us apart from our competi-

The Southshore Insurance Professionals team also publishes frequent blog posts on its website to inform clients about insurance tips and myths. Through the blog, Mosher can explain different types of insurance and how to choose the right policy for a company or individual.

Mosher and her three employees have faced the challenges of being an insurance agency in Florida. Specifically, Mosher has been challenged by the property insurance crisis that is affecting agencies and policy holders. However, she has been able to continue to provide a healthy and successful business for her employees and the clients that depend on them.

“I am proud of being able to provide a place for my employees to earn a living in our community. They live and work here too, and I’m proud our clients support us in every endeavor,” said Mosher.

For more information on Southshore Insurance Professionals or to get a quote, visit https://southshoreins.com/ or call 813-448-7580. Mosher’s ofce is located at 11216 Winthrop Main St. in Riverview.

Michelle Mosher and her team at Southshore Insurance Professionals ofer a variety of personal and corporate insurance plans for their Hillsborough County clients.

Jeremy Persinger, owner and operator of Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers in Riverview. His Riverview business has been family-owned and operated since

original owners now offering it for sale! In the security-gated enclave of Kestrelridge, on a cul-de-sac half-acre, the property features an impressive pool & spa lanai with a panoramic view of conservation woods & water. An outdoor kitchen & gas fireplace flank the heated pool on a travertine -tiled deck with both screened & roof -sheltered spaces for all-weather enjoyment. Triple pocket sliders from the family room throw the home open for great entertaining, & of course, details are just as dazzling inside: coffered ceilings, crown molding, columns & arches, gorgeous granite, diagonal -tile floors & backsplashes, decorative listello, raised -panel wood cabinets, walk -in wine closet & so much more. A turret -style entrance welcomes you through leaded -glass double doors to a lovely foyer view that immediately captures the rear vista as well as the formal living & dining rooms with passage to the family room, gourmet kitchen & casual dining nook. The first level also includes the luxury owner ’s suite, additional en -suite bed & bath for in-laws or guests, office or fifth bedroom, customized home theater, laundry room, plus lavatories for convenience both inside & beside the pool. Up a winding, wood -tread staircase are a bonus loft, third & fourth bedrooms, & third full bath. It’s all under a beautiful, barrel -tile roof with 3 AC units replaced in recent years for peace of mind. The stone-pavered driveway feeds a pair of 2-car, side-entry garages for a total of 4 bays. Perhaps best of all, you’re home in incredible FishHawk with amenities ranging from aquatic center & sports complex to parks & trails, shops & restaurants, countless conveniences & some of the best schools in all of Florida! Contact me for your private viewing of this truly special property. Offered at $1,500,000.

Pro221 Pressure Washing Ofers Expert Exterior Cleaning

Pro221 Pressure Washing specializes in all-inclusive exterior cleaning services. With cleaning homes, driveways, lanais, pool cages and more, it has the expertise and equipment to deliver outstanding results. Owner Mark Goodwin brings over 20 years of experience in customer service and understands the importance of providing high-quality service to valued customers. What sets Pro221 apart is its commitment to customer satisfaction. It guarantees that every project will be treated with the respect it deserves, and it will only stop when the customer is satisfied. Pro221 Pressure Washing is fully licensed and insured. The convenient booking options, via text message, phone call, email or website, make it easy for the customer to schedule a service. Contact it by calling 813-699-0304 or visit its website at https://pro221.com for additional information and to book services.

Duck Donuts Celebrates Grand Opening

Duck Donuts, located at 821 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon’s Bloomingdale Square plaza, recently celebrated its grand opening.

The owners, father-and-son duo Jay and Jason Patel, said, “We are delighted to be opening the first Duck Donuts in the Tampa Bay area. The community has been patiently waiting for us to open the doors, and now we cannot wait to sprinkle happiness with our warm, delicious,

made-to-order doughnuts.”

Customers can create their own doughnuts by choosing from a variety of coatings, toppings and drizzles, or they can select from the menu. The store also offers a viewing area where you can watch your donuts being made.

For more information, visit www.duckdonuts.com/brandon/. To contact Duck Donuts in Brandon, call 813-315-9661.

Twin Creeks Celebrates Five-year Anniversary

Twin Creeks Assisted Living and Memory Care recently celebrated its fiveyear anniversary with a multichamber

ribbon-cutting, which included Valrico FishHawk, Riverview and South County chambers of commerce. Twin Creeks is a state-of-the-art community with senior living professionals who are highly trained to o f er residents quality care and richness through stimulating

activities and programs that make life more rewarding. It is located at 13470 Boyette Rd. in Riverview, just south of the Bell Shoals Road/FishHawk Boulevard/Boyette Road intersection. For more information, visit its website at www.twincreeksretire. com.

HCA Florida Brandon Hospital

Receives Patient Safety Excellence Award™

HCA Florida Brandon Hospital has been recognized by Healthgrades as a 2023 Patient Safety Excellence Award™ recipient. This distinction places it among the top 10 percent of all short-term acute-care hospitals as evaluated by Healthgrades, the leading marketplace connecting patients and providers. “This award highlights HCA Florida Brandon Hospital and its caregivers who are committed to patients and safety standards,” said Tripp Owings, chief executive o f cer at HCA Florida Hospital. “We take pride in meeting and exceeding established standards as we prevent serious patient injuries, avoid preventable complications and mortalities and eliminate harm throughout the hospital.”

Duck Donuts celebrates its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting.

SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 34

Mark Goodwin, owner of Pro221 Pressure Washing.

Dental Care at FishHawk Commons, located at 5628 Circa Fishhawk Blvd. in Lithia, recently celebrated one year in business with a ribbon-cutting sponsored by the Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce.

&

OFFERS FUN SPACE FOR KIDS HAIRCUTS

Getting a haircut can be scary for young kids; that’s why finding somewhere your child feels comfortable is so important.

Pigtails & Crewcuts in Valrico offers up a safe space and kid-friendly salon with bright colors, televisions, a train table and a treasure box. Having an exciting space helps kids have fun while getting their haircut.

Pigtails & Crewcuts ofers a first-haircut package that includes a keepsake piece of hair and a certificate with a photo of your child in order to commemorate this special moment. Not only does Pigtails & Crewcuts ofer first haircuts, but there are packages for the whole family too.

“Our goal with this salon is to make the salon experience enjoyable for the entire family,” said Kimberly Bingheim, co-owner of Pigtails & Crewcuts. “It has been an incredible journey for our family.”

Other services include kid haircuts, mom and dad haircuts, bang cuts, detangling, shampoos, blow-dry, styling, fairy hair, ear piercing and nail polish. Pigtails & Crewcuts also ofers a 10-haircut package, which includes $30 in savings when

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

you purchase 10 haircuts. Because their son struggled when getting his haircut, Kimberly and Justin Bingheim were looking to find a more inviting environment to take him. During the search, they realized that there were not many kid-friendly salons in the area and decided to create that space for other families in the community.

Kimberly is passionate about ofering children a great experience for their first haircut because she remembers hers so fondly, as her aunt was the first person to cut her hair. Operating her own hair salon keeps her close to her aunt, who passed away, and Kimberly knows her aunt is proud of the safe space she has created for families.

“Getting a haircut can be delicate for children, and the first haircut is an extremely important moment,” said Kimberly. “We feel so blessed to have the opportunity to ofer other families a salon dedicated to them.”

For more information, please call the salon at 727-404-1839 or visit www.pig tailsandcrewcuts.com/valrico.

There’s a new exhibit at the Tampa Bay History Center, and it is called Key West and the Florida Keys: Mapping the History of the Conch Republic. The exhibit is on display now through Sunday, October 15 in the Saunders Foundation Gallery.

Key West and the Florida Keys have played an outsized role in Florida’s history. The Keys first appeared on a Spanish map in 1511, and they had been home to the Tequesta and Calusa for thousands of years. In modern times, Key West was at one point the largest city in Florida. It was home to wreckers, cigar makers, fisherfolk and other colorful characters.

The exhibit features historical and modern maps and charts. There are nearly 50 maps and charts in the exhibit. The oldest map is the 1511 Peter Martyr map of the Caribbean, and the newest is a 1988 map showing diferent locations of shipwrecks and (potential) sunken treasure. The History Center may add a 21st-century tourist map.

Every map in the exhibit is from the Tampa Bay History Center’s Touchton Map Library Collection. Rodney Kite-Powell, director of

By Kathy L. Collins

The Touchton Map Library holds approximately 8,000 maps, charts, atlases and other cartographic materials. All of it focuses on Florida.

Kite-Powell said, “Because of Florida’s unique geographical location and its very long political and military history, the collection includes hundreds of maps of the Caribbean and the southeastern United States. The Touchton Map Library encourages research within the collection and hosts two temporary exhibitions each year. Those exhibitions are held within the Saunders Foundation Gallery.”

Kite-Powell added, “The exhibit showcases the important and interesting history of Key West and the Florida Keys. Key West, in particular, was the most strategic and economically important city in Florida in the latter half of the 19th century. Its isolation and the lack of a reliable and continuous source of fresh water hampered its continued growth and development, and the island city was eventually eclipsed by other coastal cities, particularly Tampa. Shifting to tourism, the Keys and Key West became a playground for Floridians and Americans

With bright colors, exciting chairs and more, kids will be excited to get their haircut at Pigtails & Crewcuts.

Te Tampa Bay History Center in downtown Tampa has an exciting new exhibit featuring maps, both historical and modern as well as charts, known as Key West and the Florida Keys: Mapping the History of the Conch Republic.

SOPHOMORE QB ROSE-BAILEY IS A BUDDING STAR FOR BLOOMINGDALE BULLS

Dillon Rose-Bailey is a budding star for the Bloomingdale High School football program. The young quarterback showed promise for the Bulls last season, leading the team with 10 passing touchdowns in just six starts.

The 6’2,” 185-pound gunslinger was thrust into the spotlight last season after senior leader James Coney went down with an injury. The freshman came in and immediately won his first career start against rival Durant. He continued to show poise throughout the season, throwing 10 touchdown passes for 1,048 yards and rushing for two.

“I was just shocked how fast the game was for me,” said Rose-Bailey. “Once I started the third game, the pace started to move how I wanted it to.”

The traditional pocket passer already has a D-I ofer from Florida Atlantic University and has participated in many showcase camps throughout the country in his young career. QB Hit List has him ranked fifth in the class of 2026 for QBs in the state of Florida and 24th in the nation. He’s competed in several camps in Texas and won MVP in two showcases called ‘The VI’ and ‘The Show by NXGEN.’ He was Quarterback Universe first runner-up in St. Louis, Missouri as well. Rose-Bailey recently went on an unofficial visit to the University of South Florida.

Former Bloomingdale football head coach Jake Coulson believes that Rose-Bailey will

By Nick Nahas

be a future power five QB and has all the intangibles.

He said that the pro-style QB plays beyond his years, works extremely hard at his craft, has a great arm, can read defenses, is a great leader, is very coachable and, most importantly, wants to be great.

“He wants the ball, He’s not scared of pressure and being put in pressure type situations,” said Coulson. “That’s what makes him really good. The longer he plays at that speed of level, he’s just going to continue to get better.”

Coulson remembers fondly when the freshman came in for James Coney in the preseason classic against a high-powered defense in Berkley Prep and immediately completed two straight passes. He had the utmost confidence in the young QB.

“By the time that dude’s a junior, he’s going to be a freak of nature,” said Coulson.

“He already has one big-time ofer and I think they’ll start coming in pretty soon, especially after these guys get out there and watch him in the spring game.”

Rose-Bailey said that he’s working on his speed and arm strength and studying coverages this of-season. He is confident in his team and hopes to help them win districts and go to the playofs.

“I know people are watching and any bad move I make can downgrade me, so I’m just going to continue to work hard and not stop.”

Photo courtesy of Ron Bailey Freshman Dillon Rose-Bailey came in and immediately won his frst career start against rival Durant. He continued to show poise throughout the season, throwing 10 touchdown passes for 1,048 yards and rushing for two.

2ND ECHO THRIFT STORE OPENING ON BLOOMINGDALE THIS MONTH

Finding a good home for things you don’t use anymore is a solid move any time of year. Donate items to ECHO’s new thrift store and you will be giving to people in crisis in our community.

ECHO’s mission is to assist residents of Hillsborough County in crisis with emergency food and clothing, ofering life-stabilizing programs and resources.

ECHO has two resource centers, one in Brandon and one in Riverview. Its Brandon thrift store has provided clothing and housewares for the resource centers since 2021.

A second ECHO Thrift store is opening on Thursday, April 27 on Bloomingdale Avenue. The additional space will allow ECHO to process more donations, support more neighbors in need and create additional funding for ECHO’s many community initiatives.

ECHO Thrift’s manager, Annmarie Macaluso, loves the mission and community focus of ECHO.

“ECHO is community-based. We live here. We work here. We help here,” Macaluso said.

According to Macaluso, the new Bloomingdale store will primarily support the Riverview resource center. The support process will be the same as it has been for the Brandon resource center.

SPRINGS YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

By Jane Owen

Resource centers send invoices of what they need, the thrift stores fill the items and then they are picked up and taken to the centers daily. Leftover items at the thrift stores are sold, and the profits support ECHO’s programming.

Macaluso explained that the new store provides more giveback to what ECHO is already doing but beyond that, it gives back to this area of the community.

“I look at our thrift store as its own give back to the community. We try to keep things here reasonable. People can come and shop and find nice things for their family. A lot of people are struggling who might not need assistance, but things are a little tight and we are more afordable,” Macaluso said.

ECHO’s Bloomingdale thrift store is located at 815 W. Bloomingdale Ave. It is open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Donation hours are 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on those days.

Donations of clothing and housewares are accepted. Baby seats, large toys and furniture (with the exception of small accent pieces) cannot be donated.

To learn more about ECHO, visit https:// echofl.org/. For specific thrift store information, select the “ECHO Thrift” tab on the website.

Q: What is a spring?

By Madison Trowbridge, Ph.D., Springs Scientist

A: A spring occurs when groundwater that is under pressure flows through natural cracks in the aquifer and creates a natural opening in the ground. The pressure causes the water to flow from the aquifer to the earth’s surface. Our groundwater is the result of seasonal rainfall that soaks into the ground and into the aquifer. Springs can occur as an individual vent but more often as many spring vents, known as a spring group.

Q: What is a springshed?

A: A springshed is an area of land that captures rainwater and supplies the groundwater to a spring. A springshed can be quite large. For example, the Rainbow Springs Group has a springshed that covers several hundred square miles and extends into three counties. The water travel time in a springshed to the spring can vary from hours to several decades, but this water will eventually flow out of the spring vent. It is often said that a spring is only as healthy as its springshed because actions that occur many miles away can have a direct efect on the health of the spring and the water flowing from it.

Q: Why are springs important?

A: Florida’s springs and their associated rivers and bays provide ecological, economic, recreational, and aesthetic value to the state. Springs are often called windows to the aquifer because the water that flows out of them comes directly from the aquifer, and therefore should be protected from harm. A spring’s rivers and bays can provide activities like swimming, kayaking and nature watching, to name a few. The Florida

Springs Coast provides the largest natural warm-water refuge in the United States for the Florida manatee, with seasonal numbers in the hundreds. People come from around the world to visit these gentle creatures, resulting in a large economic impact for the surrounding communities.

Q: What makes a healthy spring?

A: Characteristics of healthy springs include the quantity of flow, water chemistry (especially the amount of nutrients) and the type and amount of aquatic vegetation, fish and wildlife present. Levels of spring flow affect the appearance and the ecology of the rivers and bays that are fed by these springs.

Q: How can I help protect Florida’s springs at home?

A: What we do in the springshed impacts the springs even if we don’t live close to a spring. Limit fertilizer use because excess fertilizer can seep into the aquifer. Inspect your septic tank every few years, as tanks that are not properly maintained can pollute the aquifer. Never dump anything down a storm drain and always dispose of grass clippings, litter, motor oil and pet waste properly. Always dispose of hazardous household chemicals etc. at an approved facility. Remember, both our drinking water and springs can become harmed.

Dr. Madison Trowbridge is the springs scientist and the Springs Team lead for the Southwest Florida Water Management District. She holds a Ph.D. in cell and molecular biology from the University of South Florida, and her doctoral research is focused on subsurface microbial ecology near Weeki Wachee.

A second ECHO Trift store is opening on Tursday, April 27 on Bloomingdale Avenue and will help ECHO to support more neighbors in need.

Annmarie Macaluso, ECHO Trift store manager, at ECHO’s new Bloomingdale thrift store.

ADULT CARE CENTER RECEIVES BASKETBALL COURT GIFT

Margaret Montgomery is a local author and the owner of Destiny Quality Care in Brandon. She has worked in the health care field for more than 30 years, and she retired from the H. Lee Moftt Cancer Center after 27 years.

Montgomery is also an allied health care instructor and has taught in the field of allied health for 13 years.

“Destiny Quality Care is an up-and-coming ‘Life Enrichment Training Day Program’ for persons with disabilities,”

Montgomery said. “We are located in the heart of Brandon.”

Destiny Quality Care’s motto is serving and caring with excellence. Recently, Montgomery and her staf were served with a gift of love and care from some local Brandon residents. “These days, it seems like we hear of so many bad and horrible things that involve police ofcers,” Montgomery said. “The mother of one of our consumers is a master deputy for Hillsborough County Sherif ’s Ofce. It was placed upon Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Cribbs’ heart to donate and create a basketball court for the individuals that attend Destiny Quality Care. Our center is located on approximately 4 acres of land; however, we still had to drive the consumers to our local park for them to partake in playing basketball, four square and hopscotch, among other outside activities.”

By Libby Hopkins

Thanks to the Cribbs, Destiny Quality Care’s consumers have a basketball court that displays the court, four square and hopscotch on the organization’s property. “We did not ask for this blessing,” Montgomery said.

“This couple took it upon themselves to make this donation, which Mr. Cribbs did the work. I am so grateful for this basketball court, along with my ‘precious gems,’ which is what I call them. They are jewels and gems to me.”

The smiles on Montgomery’s consumers’ faces when they saw the new court were priceless to Montgomery and her staf “We have approximately 25 consumers,” Montgomery said. “When I see them playing on the court, it brings tears to my eyes because they are able to participate in various activities all at once. Now, they do not have to go five days a week to the Brandon Recreation Center to play basketball. The clients can now play four square, hopscotch and basketball right here at our facility.”

If you’d like to learn more about Destiny Quality Care, you can visit its website at www.destinyqualitycare.org. Destiny Quality Care is located at 711 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon.

FAMILY HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION OFFERS COMMUNITY-BASED NAVIGATION FOR SERVICES

Finding and maintaining health insurance for individuals and families can be a daunting task. Thankfully, there is The Family Healthcare Foundation, an afordable nonprofit that helps you navigate difcult terrain and find insurance coverage that fits your needs.

For 25 years, The Family Healthcare Foundation has been helping residents of Hillsborough County as well as Pinellas, Pasco and Polk counties. Its mission is to ensure that all residents have equitable access to quality health care coverage, and its services are free to anyone, regardless of income.

If you are one of the millions who are in need of health care insurance coverage, and need help navigating the system, look to Te Family Healthcare Foundation for help. It provides health care navigator services for free to all residents of Hillsborough County.

Its services have never been more needed than they are today, as Medicaid coverage for millions, which was mandated and paid for by the federal government during the pandemic, is coming to an end.

The Family Healthcare Foundation employs highly trained and experienced navigators who will work with you to compare health care coverage from both private insurance and publicly funded health insurance, such as Florida Medicaid, Florida KidCare, the Hillsborough County Health Care Plan and the Obamacare Marketplace. Navigators are paid by The Family Healthcare Foundation, which receives funding so that it can ensure everyone has access to insurance. The navigators provide unbiased information.

Navigators speak English, Spanish, Por-

By Kathy L. Collins

tuguese and Haitian Creole. They can also get a translator for other languages.

Navigators start with a screening process to determine the type of coverage that may apply. Some programs have income requirements. You can meet with the navigator over the phone, virtually or in person. In-person meetings take place at one of seven Children’s Board Resource Centers located throughout Hillsborough County, including Brandon and Plant City.

Navigators will make themselves available in the evenings and on weekends to accommodate those who work and cannot take time o f . In addition, they are partnering with BayCare Health System, Tampa General Hospital, Evara Health and Premier Community HealthCare Group to provide additional navigators during this di f cult time.

Katie Roders Turner, executive director for The Family Healthcare Foundation, said, “Our navigators have 10 years or more experience. They do not receive commission and will do a side-by-side comparison of coverage in a completely unbiased manner.”

For more information and to get the process started, please visit https:// familyhealthcarefdn.org/ or call 813995-7005.

Destiny Quality Care’s motto is serving and caring with excellence. Recently, the organization was served with a gift of love and care from some local Brandon residents.

LIGHTNING AND MOSAIC CELEBRATE 10 YEARS OF GOALS FOR FOOD PROGRAM ACROSS

THE TAMPA BAY REGION

Staf Report

TECHNOLOGY AND CUSTOMER SERVICE COME TOGETHER AT THE TAX OFFICE

By Brad Stager

The Tampa Bay Lightning and The Mosaic Company are proud to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Goals for Food program, which supports food-insecure residents across the Tampa Bay region.

“We are incredibly proud to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Goals for Food program in partnership with Mosaic,” said Mark Pitts, chief operating o f cer of Vinik Sports Group. “This program has been instrumental in supporting food-insecure families in our community, and we look forward to continuing this important work with Mosaic to support hunger relief e f orts.”

Mosaic’s Goals for Food program donates $1,000 for every goal and $1,500 for every hat trick scored by a Lightning player during the 2022-23 season. At the end of the season, the total donation will be distributed among 12 local food partner organizations dedicated to ending food insecurity throughout West Central Florida.

Since its inception in 2013, the Goals for Food partnership has profoundly impacted the lives of food-insecure residents, providing more than 9.8 million meals over the last decade.

On February 23, Mosaic employees, community partners and Lightning fans came together to celebrate this milestone and continue to raise awareness about the need to support food insecure families in West Central Florida. Also, that evening, in support of the Goals for Food program, the Lightning hosted a food drive to benefit Metropolitan Ministries at Ford Thunder Alley before their game against the Bu f alo Sabres at AMALIE Arena. Fans in attendance were invited to participate by donating nonperishable food items.

“Mosaic is committed to supporting the communities in which we live and work, and our partnership with the Tampa Bay Lightning through the Goals for Food program is one way we can make a di f erence,” said Bruce Bodine, Mosaic’s senior vice president - North America.

“We are proud to celebrate 10 years of this important program and remain dedicated to ending food insecurity in our region.”

For more information about the Goals for Food program and Mosaic’s commitment to local communities, visit https:// mosaicfloridaphosphate.com/.

Among life’s certainties is the paying of taxes and fees to government entities that then spend the money for the benefit of residents on things like roads and other infrastructure, or services such as fire protection.

As Hillsborough County’s tax collector, Nancy Millan is responsible for the collection of revenue payments from residents so they can operate a business, own a home, fish for snook or drive a car, as examples.

She was elected to the ofce in November 2020, and while she is the newest Hillsborough County tax collector, it is a position that Millan is familiar with, having served as the agency’s director of community relations for 20 years.

According to Millan, her experience of connecting the community with the county’s administrative and civic processes while working for her predecessor, Doug Belden, influences her work in leading the tax ofce and also played a part in wanting to continue serving county residents by running for election to the position.

“I’m very passionate about this ofce and the work we’ve done, and I wanted to move forward with the excellent foundation to provide excellent service,” she said, adding, “I knew what success looked like.”

The COVID-19 pandemic has afected tax ofce operations over the last three years, and the resulting innovations will continue to do so as Millan encourages adoption of technology that ofers residents flexibility in taking care of routine administrative matters.

“We learned there’s a diferent way of doing business,” she said.

Among the innovations are the ability to take a driver’s license road test in a remote fashion, with the examiner observing and evaluating an applicant’s driving skills via cell phone. Other technologies deployed to facilitate public access to the tax ofce include self-service kiosks located at some Publix supermarkets and a bilingual (English and Spanish) chatbot named Sofie on the tax collector website to provide customer assistance.

The high level of customer service expected of tax collection employees is also reflected in the ofce’s internal culture, resulting in recognition as a 2022 National Top Workplaces Culture Excellence awardee by Energage, a national research company that conducts workplace surveys. You can learn more about doing business with the Hillsborough County tax ofce by visiting www.hillstax.org.

Nancy Millan is the Hillsborough County tax collector.

RAPTOR CENTER OF TAMPA BAY AIMS FOR RESCUE AND CONSERVATION

The Raptor Center of Tampa Bay (RCTB) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the creation and maintenance of a wildlife facility designed for the care, treatment and rehabilitation of birds of prey and other wildlife. While there is not a physical facility yet, there are plans to develop one — and that has not stopped founder Nancy Murrah and the Raptor Center team from doing what they can until that facility comes to fruition.

RCTB was born out of another organization with a mission of helping wildlife known as Tampa Bay Raptor Rescue. The Raptor Center was created in 2018 to serve a greater purpose than rescue, as there is a focus on education about these animals, their habitats and some of the obstacles they face in modern times.

“Our message is simple: We plan to educate people of all ages, what they can do to help turn this extinction around and, in a short and simple way, explain how all of our ecosystems and the food web are tied together,” Murrah said.

RCTB is very efective in its work, as there are roughly 1,000 animals that receive care through the organization, and there are even a few resident animal ‘ambassadors’ for the facility. While the primary focus is on raptors and other birds of prey, it is capable of handling many reptiles and mammals as well for short periods of time before get-

By Jonathan Hurst

ting in contact with specialists for those animals.

Unfortunately, as things currently stand, the demand for the services of the Raptor Center outweighs what its resources allow, as birds are turned away every day due to the lack of resources and space, which is why the future rehabilitation facility is so important. These creatures are in need of assistance, and that is the void that those involved with RCTB are determined to fill.

“As a lifelong conservationist, I have watched our wildlife battle habitat destruction, polluting our waterways, plastic pollution, deforestation and many other terrible things that have resulted in a 27 percent reduction of birds worldwide during my lifetime. … I want to do my part so the young people on the planet today have hope,” Murrah said.

RCTB recently acquired and is in the process of refurbishing a donated prison bus that will be transformed into a traveling education center. This center will be used for a variety of educational purposes, such as the “We Can Stop It” show and housing RCTB’s educational ambassadors.

If you would like to help, donate or simply get more information, check out RCTB’s Facebook page @RaptorCenterofTampaBay or its website, www.raptorcenteroftampabay.org.

STINGRAY CHEVROLET CAR RAFFLES RAISE MORE THAN $3 MILLION FOR UNITY IN THE COMMUNITY

For the 14th time, Stingray Chevrolet has successfully run its New Vehicle Raffle benefitting Unity in the Community. On March 12, the May family were the recipients of a new C8 Corvette, as one of the 20 tickets they purchased was drawn as the winning ticket at the Strawberry Festival.

With tickets costing $5 each, there were between 60,000 to 70,000 tickets in the drawing this year, which was done live in front of a crowd at the Strawberry Festival and livestreamed on Stingray Chevrolet’s Facebook page. This year’s winner, James May, purchased 20 tickets but had not even consider winning and just wanted to help Unity in the Community continue their great work.

While all past years of this rafe are considered successful, this year broke records, as Stingray Chevrolet and owner Steve Hurley were able to generate $363,000 for Unity in the Community. In total, Stingray Chevrolet has donated almost $3,000,000 to the organization over the 14 years that this rafe has been held.

“We have given $2.945M over the 14 raffles to Unity in the Community. Ironically, that could have never happened without the help of the community itself here in Plant City. Without the Florida Strawberry Festival, our Unity board members, all

WE’RE HIRING!

By Jonathan Hurst

of our volunteers at the festival, our outstanding radio media partners and so many more, the rafes could never have happened,”

Stingray Chevrolet owner Steve Hurley shared.

Unity in the Community is a Plant City-based nonprofit organization dedicated to helping those in need through donations to diferent local charities such as Plant City United Food Bank and Lots of Hugs Summer Reading program. Additionally, Unity has 13 scholarships that it gives out annually to local high school students. Unity has a board comprised of up to a dozen local business owners and its founder, Joyce Jordan Hooke.

Hurley also serves on the Unity board and was brainstorming ways to be able to raise more funds than they had in the past, and he contemplated simply donating a car. After some more thinking, he came to the realization that through a legal new vehicle rafe, they would be able to generate three to four times the value of the car.

“I am just proud of all of the great people in Plant City who are able to help make this rafe happen each year,” said Hurley. For more about Unity in the Community, visit its website at www.unityinplantcity. org. Stingray Chevrolet is located at 2002 N. Frontage Rd. in Plant City. Visit www. stingraychevrolet.com.

Zomesa LLC, a Bookkeeping and Back-Offce Support Services frm serving Tampa Bay since 2004 is looking for a full charge bookkeeper/tax preparer. Position can be full-time or part-time with fexible hours. Salary is commensurate with experience. Please forward a cover letter and resume to info@zomesa.com.

Raptor Center of Tampa Bay founder Nancy Murrah aids a raptor.

Te May family, the winners of the C8 Corvette rafe.

Photos courtesy of Stingray Chevrolet.

Steve Hurley and the Unity in the Community team with the check presentation at Stingray Chevrolet.

BLOOMINGDALE’S CHURCH NAMED WRESTLING COACH OF THE YEAR

By Jane Owen

exciting to watch him turn a really good program into a great program. He challenges the boys to be better wrestlers every day, and they have responded,” Bogue said. The wrestlers have benefitted from his strong work ethic.

HANDYMAN MILLER INC. OFFERS QUALITY SERVICE TO THE RIVERVIEW COMMUNITY

By Libby Hopkins

Bloomingdale High School wrestling coach Mark Church was named this year’s Joel Medgebow Memorial Wrestling Coach of the Year. He was presented the award at the Hillsborough County School District meeting on March 30. The award is given yearly to honor the memory of Robinson High School wrestling coach Joel Medgebow.

Church took over as head coach this year at Bloomingdale after serving as an assistant for the last five years. He decided he could not leave the athletes after the previous coach, Dennis Kitko, moved overseas.

He not only didn’t leave them, but he also led them to victory. Ten wrestlers competed at regionals, six wrestlers competed at states and four wrestlers finished the season as state medalists. Church is also the assistant girls’ wrestling coach.

Sara Bogue, Bloomingdale High School’s athletic director, said Church teaches resilience.

“Coach Church has done a phenomenal job with our wrestling team. It has been

“Coach Church is a great coach because he is always there for us ready to work. He always pushes us to our limits, and he helps us learn from our mistakes,” said junior wrestler J.R. Singer.

Coach Church focuses on conditioning and teaching basics. He credits the wrestlers, administration and parents that believed in him.

“None of it would have been possible if it weren’t for the kids who believed in me as much as I believed in them, especially as a first-year head coach. I was honored from day one that the admin, coaches, wrestlers and parents all entrusted me, which allowed me to keep it simple and just focus on wrestling,” Church said.

“It was definitely humbling to receive such an award from my fellow coaching peers. It’s also really cool to have my name on the same trophy with my mentor and coach — the legendary Russ Cozart,” Church added.

He wrestled under Cozart at Brandon High School. Church was the 1995 state champion for 112 lbs.

Jason Miller, owner of Handyman Miller Inc., was born and raised in Ruskin, and his wife is Amy, who is from Apollo Beach. The couple lived in Temple Terrace for a while and then lived in North Carolina for four years before moving to Riverview, where they currently live. “I have always worked in construction and technology and have experience in many diferent fields of construction, including aluminum, screening, steel buildings and wood-frame homes from the ground up,” Miller said. “I have worked in Southern Hillsborough County most of my life.”

Miller started doing side work in addition to his full-time job to make extra money as a teen. “After many years of learning many diferent trades and perfect timing, I decided to trust God and take a leap of faith and go full time with my own business in 2012,” Miller said. “I planned to keep it small, but my quality of work grew my business. I needed help. So, I slowly decided to add two employees that I know well and trust. The work we put out and the type of people working for me is very important. The reputation of my company is everything.”

If you ask Miller what makes his business diferent from others in the area, he’ll tell you about his quality of work and the level of customer service he gives his clients. “I truly care about my customers

and the quality of work that we do,” Miller said. “My employees have to give quality work. I only have two employees that I have carefully vetted, and I know they do the same quality work that I do and expect. We also do not take payments for jobs until they are complete. We do our best to make sure we run a legit and completely legal business.”

Miller also loves the variety his business brings him. “It is something diferent every day,” Miller said. “I also get to meet many very interesting people. I love working with my hands, building and fixing things, along with being able to get creative and fix issues that are uncommon or odd.”

Keeping things local is very important to Miller and his team. “Local is very important to me,” Miller said. “When companies are local, they usually care about the people they serve even more. I have grown up working in diferent construction businesses in this area. I love to help when elderly customers have been taken advantage of and then call me to come fix what another person has either ruined or not fixed correctly.”

If you would like to learn more about the services Miller and his team ofer, visit their website at www.handymanmiller. com. Call Jason for a free estimate at 813-503-5774.

Let’s

Let’s make a plan. Contact me, and we’ll start with a free personalized college cost report.

Coach Church received the Joel Medgebow Memorial Wrestling Coach of the Year award at the Hillsborough County School District meeting on March 30.

Jason Miller is a handyman who is a rare jack of many trades, and master of quite a few. He is the owner of Handyman Miller Inc.

MOSAIC PARTNERS WITH THE CONFIDENCE & LEADERSHIP FOUNDATION TO SUPPORT GIRLS & BOYS WITH CONFIDENCE TO TITLE I SCHOOLS

The Confidence & Leadership Foundation was recently selected by Mosaic to be a community partner for its commitment to supporting diversity and inclusion. Through this partnership, they will be able to ofer free programming to several Title I schools in the Tampa Bay area.

“We were honored to be selected by Mosaic and look forward to making an impact on the populations we serve through this partnership,” said Nancy Lemon, executive director for the foundation. “We can now ofer our programs after school to kids that can really use the additional tools, guidance and support.”

The foundation supports programs offered by Girls & Boys With Confidence that focus on the development of positive self-esteem and strong character. The programs help elementary-age children learn life skills and strategies for managing through the challenges they might experience, such as exclusion, bullying, distorted body image, diversity, friendships, perfectionism, etc.

“We understand the impact of the foundation’s work for girls and boys in under-resourced communities within Hillsborough County. Mosaic is committed

GRAND OPENING OF FIRST FLORIDA LOCATION OF LET THERE BE ROCK MUSIC SCHOOL IN RIVERVIEW

to supporting that impact by providing financial support and resources to increase the capacity and reach of the Foundation,” said Sarah Fedorchuk, Mosaic’s vice president of government and public afairs for North America.

Currently, Girls & Boys With Confidence is offering free programming through The Confidence & Leadership Foundation to several Title I schools, including McDonald, Mintz, Booker T. Washington and Burney elementary schools, with more to be added later this spring and in the fall.

The Confidence & Leadership Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was formed in the fall of 2019 to help support Girls & Boys With Confidence in two main areas: scholarships and Title I school programming.

Its mission is: “Providing all youth the opportunity to grow their self-confidence to become tomorrow’s leaders.”

For more information on The Confidence & Leadership Foundation, email info@ confidenceandleadership.org. Girls With Confidence and Boys With Confidence are located at 10540 Browning Rd. in Lithia; visit www.girlswithconfidence.com for additional programming information.

If you or your child have ever dreamed of being a music star, Let There Be Rock School, a combination music lesson facility and after-school rock ’n’ roll center, is here. It recently celebrated its grand opening in Riverview with a ribbon-cutting and family activities.

Whether you or your child wants to be a musician, singer, recording engineer or songwriter, this unique school has something for all ages and skill levels.

Behind the Florida debut of the Let There Be Rock School franchise are business partners Kevin Sitaras and Dave Cortino. The school ofers guitar, bass, drums, piano, ukulele, mandolin, voice and audioa production instruction with four vetted instructors. Both Sitaras and Cortino have invested heavily in providing their students with the best guitars, amps, drums, sound production software and more, and the school proudly features vintage ’80s to the most modern musical equipment.

In addition to lessons, students can join a band and even opt to perform an original song at a real concert venue every two to three months. The school will also feature a summer camp geared toward songwriting.

The antithesis of stufy, Let There Be Rock School boasts an arcade with six machines and a seating area for guests to relax or play video games on the 65-inch TV. In the lobby, walls are covered with Sitaras’ show posters and memorabilia, along with posters of

bands the school has gotten signed to labels.

“The biggest concept behind this school is community. We wanted to build a community around a school. Rather than a company fueled solely by profit, we wanted to create a place where people can come and hang out and feel fully welcomed for their lessons or band rehearsals,” explained Sitaras. “We look forward to building a home for as many people as possible.”

Cortino said, “We want to create a safe, inclusive space where musicians of all ages can gather and be encouraged to play music, write and network.”

Sitaras and Cortino know life is hectic. That is why Let There Be Rock School ofers a flexible schedule where students can take weekly 30-minute lessons or 60-minute rehearsals on weekdays after school and on weekends.

Let There Be Rock School’s grand opening even featured beignets compliments of the Daily Beignets truck, beverages and live performances by local bands from three diferent school locations. There was also a 50/50 cash rafe to support Habitat for Humanity.

Let There Be Rock School is located at 9366 Balm Riverview Rd. in Riverview. Its hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 3-9 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; and Sunday by appointment. Enrollment is open for ages 4 to adult. Vvisit https://ltbrsriverview.com/ for more

LOCAL VETERAN WITH A LIFETIME OF SERVICE HONORED AT TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING GAME

Lewis Palumbo has given a lifetime of service to his country and community. He celebrated his 91st birthday, along with his wife of 72 years, Virginia, this past June.

The Tampa Bay Lightning honored Palumbo on the ice with the honor guard before their game against the San Jose Sharks on February 7.

Lewis’s longtime friend, Ken Muzyk, brought him to the game and surprised him with the honor.

“You may never meet someone of that caliber your whole life. He’s not one of those guys that wants to be patted on the back, but he was in awe, and he was grateful,” Muzyk said.

A career Marine, Palumbo is a veteran of the Korean War, Vietnam War and Cuban conflict.

Palumbo enlisted in the Marines in 1949. While fighting as part of the 4th Battalion of the 1st Marine Division, he was wounded in the Korean War Battle of Chosin Reservoir and received the Purple Heart. Following the Korean War, he served in the Howitzer Battery and the 2nd Signal Battalion of the 2nd Marine Division, among other units. He received his commission as a second lieutenant in 1966. He retired as a captain in 1979 after working with the Na-

By Jane Owen

tional Security Agency.

While Palumbo retired from military service in 1979, he never stopped serving. He lives up to the U.S. Marine Corps motto, “Once a Marine, always a Marine.” According to the US Marine Corps website: “There truly is no such thing as a former Marine, as after service our Marine Veterans are just as dedicated to advancing our Nation and defending its ideals.”

Palumbo volunteered tirelessly for 22 years with TOPSoccer, a recreational sports program for children with disabilities, and THORN (Thankfully Helping Others’ Real Needs) Ministries, which feeds the homeless in the Tampa area. Palumbo also regularly volunteered at the Nativity Catholic Church Food Pantry.

THORN founder Kristin Taylor said Palumbo has a big heart for others, especially homeless veterans.

“Seeing homeless veterans never sat right with him, so … he would quietly collect metal to sell to buy socks for the guys. Lew is simply the father and husband everyone could ever hope for. The friend and mentor you thank God for every time you see his face. He is the most honorable yet humble man I’ve ever known,” Taylor said.

until May 31st

Retired USMC Captain Lewis H. Palumbo at the Tampa Bay Lightning game against the San Jose Sharks on February 7.

Lewis Palumbo (right), who volunteered with THORN Ministries for 22 years in caring for the homeless, pictured with his friend, Ken Muzyk.

STROKE AND CEREBROVASCUL AR CENTER AT MANATEE MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

Manatee Memorial Hospital Comprehensive Stroke Center of Excellence

Named to U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals 2022-23 List

Manatee Memorial Hospital Comprehensive Stroke Center of Excellence has been recognized in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals 2022-23 ratings.

The hospital was named as a 2022-2023 High Performing Hospital for Stroke. This is the highest award a hospital can earn for U.S. News’ Best Hospitals Procedures & Conditions ratings and is based on the percentage of stroke patients who had positive outcomes.

At the Stroke and Cerebrovascular Center at Manatee Memorial Hospital, stroke patients receive specially designed services and treatments which focus on prevention and intervention, as well as rehabilitation and education.

For more information about the Stroke and Cerebrovascular Center, call our Comprehensive Stroke Program Coordinator, Christine Gonzalez, BSN, RN, CNRN, at 941-812-9566.

NEW MEMORY CARE STATIONS TO ASSIST RESIDENTS OF TESSERA BRANDON

Journeying to the past and taking a stroll down memory lane is no longer just a possibility for residents of Tessera Brandon, but rather a reality made feasible by the facility’s newest amenities: memory care stations.

Memory care stations are designed to elicit longterm memories by recreating familiar situations from the past. Tailored to residents sufering from Alzheimer’s and dementia, Jill Andrew, director of marketing at Tessera Brandon, stated that implementing these new technologies was an inevitable step in revolutionizing the care ofered by the senior assisted living and memory care community.

“It was just time,” said Andrew, “and the residents themselves wanted to do something meaningful for memory care.”

Located within the niches and insets of the facility’s hallways, these spaces are organized in a manner that makes them easily accessible to residents, whether they are visiting the life stations independently or participating in activities alongside their peers. Because the purpose of these stations is to encourage these individuals to recall elements of their past more readily, the current stations are decorated to resemble five aspects of everyday life.

The music station was the first one finished, featuring an antique piano and a backdrop decorated with piano keys that adorn the wall. Additional instruments available for use in this space include ukeleles, xylophones, maracas and tambourines. Incorporating scarves, hats, costume jewelry

LPGA’S

By Madeline Gardner

and purses, the vanity station features a vanity and is meant to imitate the practice of getting ready.

Complete with stufed and electronic animals, the pet life station intends to evoke past memories of time spent with furry friends. Items such as brushes encourage residents to interact with these props. The handyman station is a workbench that includes high-grade tool replicas.

Lastly, the tactile/sensory station features materials like a plaque covered in feathers and common household items like marbles.

Alongside purchasing new items and making use of current materials, Tessera Brandon regularly accepts donations from members of the surrounding community. By working with networking groups of the Greater Riverview and Valrico FishHawk chambers of commerce, for example, Tessera Brandon has been able to incorporate items such as purses, brushes and jewelry to fill these spaces.

“Our community around here is just phenomenal,” said Andrew. “People want to do good, people want to give back, and so it’s an opportunity for them to do so.”

Andrew states that the next station will likely feature either an ofce or a nursery design.

For more information on memory care stations and additional opportunities available at Tessera Brandon, please visit www. tesserabrandon.com or call 813-607-6880.

KRISTY MCPHERSON HOLDS GOLF CLINIC AT FREEDOM PLAZA FOR COMMUNITY RESIDENTS

Kristy McPherson, LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association) tour professional, recently held a golf clinic at Freedom Fairways, an 18-hole executive golf course and putting green, located within the Freedom Plaza community. For the event, Freedom Plaza also contributed $500 to the Arthritis National Research Foundation on behalf of McPherson.

“Last year, we were honored to have Kristy join a few of our associates for a round of golf on the Freedom Fairways, and we are thrilled that she decided to come back to hold an event that means a lot to our residents,” said Freedom Plaza director of golf and hospitality Ron Larkin. “Not every day do people have the opportunity to learn from one of the best.”

“I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the golf clinic with Kristy McPherson, who ofered great pointers and advice,” said Law, a resident of Freedom Plaza. “Freedom Fairways is one of my favorite amenities of our community, so I take every opportunity to get on the course, especially to improve my swing.”

At age 11, McPherson was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, which has now transitioned to adult rheumatoid arthritis, and was told she would never play competitive sports again. Despite the odds, McPherson’s determination led her to compete at the highest level in pro golf.

“We are thankful to have Kristy back at

Freedom Plaza, and we are proud to support her mission to find a cure for arthritis through research,” said Freedom Plaza director of marketing and sales Iris Martin. “Kristy’s story is very inspiring, and we stand with her goal to ofer those who sufer from arthritis the chance for productive, pain-free lives, as this is something that impacts many of our residents.”

Attendees of the clinic included Freedom Plaza residents, as well as members of the Freedom Fairways Golf Course Pro Shop. At the clinic, Freedom Plaza provided food and beverages for all attendees to enjoy while learning how to improve their game in the great sport of golf.

Freedom Plaza is a vibrant life care community in Sun City Center set on 140 acres of landscaped grounds. Along with its golf course and putting green, it also features a private lake and walking trails. Just minutes from both Tampa and Sarasota, residents enjoy a maintenance-free retirement lifestyle with resort-inspired services and amenities. Freedom Plaza’s pet-friendly community features over 400 independent living residences, ranging from studio to one and two-bedroom apartment residences. It also ofers assisted living residences; skilled nursing, including private rehabilitation suites; and memory care. Visit https:// freedomplaza.com/ for more information.

Tessera Brandon is located at 1320 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

After purchasing the vanity for this life station, Tessera Brandon reached out to the community for the donation of various accessories.

LPGA tour professional Kristy McPherson (middle), Freedom Plaza director of golf and hospital-ity Ron Larkin (left) and Freedom Plaza director of marketing and sales Iris Martin (right) hold-ing a $500 check from Freedom Plaza contributed to the Arthritis National Research Founda-tion on behalf of McPherson.

MARY & MARTHA HOUSE

HELPS WOMEN AND FAMILIES ESCAPE

DOMESTIC ABUSE AND HOMELESSNESS

When someone is being abused, it can be difcult for the victim to leave the abuser for a myriad of reasons, including the risk of homelessness. However, there are places which will lend a caring and giving hand, such as Mary & Martha House.

Te Mary & Martha House provides emergency shelter for women and children who are escaping abuse or facing homelessness. Its shelters provide a safe space for them while they gain employment and successfully transition to permanent housing.

Mary & Martha House’s shelters provide a safe haven for victims to escape abuse and begin recovery and are designed to be like home with each family having their own space. Its goal is to provide emergency shelter, transitional housing and support services to victims of domestic violence as well as homeless women and their children so that they may gain employment and successfully transition into permanent housing.

Bill Chini, executive director of Mary & Martha House, said, “We provide shelter during their transition. Our clients are provided a case manager who works with them, one-on-one, to identify their own personal barriers and how to overcome them. We ofer a program called Break The Cycle, which includes five areas of instruction for the women to assist them and provide growth in key areas on the road to independence. The five areas are Financial Literacy, Nutritional Guidance, Female Empowerment, Parenting Skills and Spiritual Guidance.”

Chini added, “Our intake process starts

MCAULEY FINE JEWELRY CELEBRATES WITH NEW NEARBY LOCATION

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

By Kathy L. Collins

with a phone call to our ofce at [813645-7874] or fill out an online intake form, which can be found at https://marymarthahouse.org/ intake-form/. The intake specialist drills down into how they need assistance, with or without our organization. Our intake specialist will then work with the individual to ensure they are receiving the best care possible.”

Chini said, “We are proud to be the catalyst in our fight against domestic violence and homelessness, and that our community has entrusted us for over 40 years and continues to support our mission to help women and families who are desperately in need of assistance and guidance.”

Mary & Martha House is funded through multiple channels, including some county funding. Chini said, “Our Mary & Martha House Fashion and Home Goods Thrift Store (located behind our ofces) generates revenue for the mission thanks to the wonderful people who donate gently used items and the wonderful volunteers who run the store. However, most of our funding comes from the community by way of unrestricted donations/grants, fundraising events and individuals who want to help us make a diference.”

The ofce and thrift store are located at 312 S. U.S. Hwy. 41 in Ruskin.

One of the community’s staple jewelry and repair shops has purchased a new storefront right in the heart of Brandon.

McAuley Fine Jewelry is now located at 201 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon and is excited to host a new grand opening event this summer.

Though McAuley Fine Jewelry is still waiting on some final touches before it opens the new doors, the team is eager to share the new store with customers.

“We’re really excited to have had the opportunity to buy a building in the heart of Brandon. It’s literally the building directly behind ours,” said Jennifer McAuley, co-owner of McAuley Fine Jewelry.

The grand opening event will be Saturday, May 20 from 4-6 p.m. and will include free jewelry checks and cleanings, rafes, custom jewelry design, watch and jewelry repairs along with a “previously loved” jewelry sale.

Through the move, two tenants remain in the building, Divine Glow Aesthetics and Carmen’s Tailoring, while Audibel Hearing Center has moved by Bill’s Prescription Center.

McAuley Fine Jewelry ofers experienced team members to aid with jewelry and

watch repairs, custom design work as well as purchasing your gold. The shop has a tight group of employees, many of whom stayed with McAuley Fine Jewelry after Martin’s Jewelers closed. The team members at McAuley Fine Jewelry have a wide skill set to assist customers.

When designing a piece, the experts at the shop suggest doing research online to find images of jewelry you like. This will give inspiration and direction for the team to help create the perfect piece at your consultation. If there is a specific item you are looking for that McAuley Fine Jewelry does not have, many times the team will be able to order from one of McAuley Fine Jewelry’s U.S. vendors with next-day delivery.

When the owners of Martin’s Jewelers retired in 2017, the McAuley family took over the storefront to continue serving the area as the previous owners had. McAuley Fine Jewelry is now moving into a new building near the old location in order to continue growing and help more customers with their jewelry needs. And while it may not be Martin’s Jewelers anymore, the beloved owner of Martin’s Jewelers, Joe Martin, still works for the shop, claiming he failed retirement.

McAuley Fine Jewelry had spent the month of March moving and organizing while getting ready to open the new storefront.

BLOOMINGDALE’S RUNNING OF THE BULLS 5K RETURNS IN MAY

The Running of the Bulls 5K is on Saturday, May 20 at Bloomingdale High School.

The 5K is a favorite community event bringing in runners and walkers from all over the area, along with current students and BSHS alumni. Participants will enjoy the race knowing they are making a diference for students.

The 5K supports the Bloomingdale band and is made possible by local business sponsorships, such as premium sponsors Acropolis Greek Taverna in Riverview and The Jeep Depot.

Nick Baxter, 2022 race winner, is enthusiastic about running the race again. He said there are many reasons why he enjoys the Running of the Bulls 5K.

“Running of the Bulls is a great race and I’m excited to get back to the on-campus course this year. It’s always very well organized and has a fun community atmosphere with the drumline, local vendors and student volunteers. Plus, it always has some very speedy high school kids to test yourself against. On top of all that, the race supports the high school band and it’s always good to race locally where it helps the community. I look forward

By Jane Owen

to racing it again,” Baxter said.

Jon Sever, supervisor of secondary music for Hillsborough County schools and former Bloomingdale band director, said the 5K provides invaluable support for Bloomingdale’s band. Sever enjoys how the event brings the community and band together. He explained that the band students and families volunteer for the race, and the race participants are supporting the band program.

“The 5K reaches part of our community that in turn supports the Bloomingdale band. It’s reciprocal because the event brings together two interest groups helping each other,” Sever said.

The Running of the Bulls 5K starts at 8 a.m. It starts and finishes on the track and uses the sidewalks, roads and parking lots on campus. Registered participants receive a Dri-FIT shirt and finishers receive medals. The race is timed by Bay City Timing, and the winners of each age group receive medals. Registration is $35.

To register for the 5K visit, https:// raceroster.com/events/2023/72397/ running-of-the-bulls-5k. For information, email bloomingdalebulls5k@gmail.com.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

2022 Running of the Bulls Overall Winner Nick Baxter with the Bloomingdale Bull.

APPLICATIONS FOR MENTORING PROGRAM WITH COLLEGE OPPORTUNITY OPEN FOR LOW-INCOME STUDENTS

The Hillsborough Education Foundation’s (HEF) Take Stock in Children (TSIC) mentoring program is designed to give at risk students the opportunity to attend college. HEF is accepting applications from students in seventh or eighth grade. The deadline to apply is Monday, May 15.

TSIC, a Florida nonprofit, was established in 1995. It is independently managed in each county. HEF manages the TSIC program for Hillsborough County and has been enrolling students since 1996. HEF administers the application process, recruits the mentors, monitors students’ academic progress and mentor interaction, raises funds to support the mentoring program and provides scholarships to students upon high school graduation and completion of the program. The Florida Department of Education, foundations and donors provide funding for the program. Every dollar that is raised is matched dollar-for-dollar by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation.

In order to qualify for the program, students must be in seventh or eighth grade, be enrolled in a Hillsborough County Public School, qualify for free or reduced lunches (income) and have an unweighted GPA of 2.5.

Students who are accepted into the program are paired with a success coach and an adult mentor. Students have the

By Kathy L. Collins

opportunity to earn a Florida Prepaid Scholarship if they maintain a 2.5 GPA, attend biweekly meetings with their mentor, stay drug and crime-free and exhibit good behavior.

Anna Corman, HEF’s chief program ofcer, said, “Students in our program face challenges that may prevent them from graduating high school or going to college. Our scholars are committed to working hard and maintaining their grades in hopes for a brighter future. Many of our students are without positive role models to help guide them through the challenges in school and in life. Their environment may lack emotional or educational support. For some students, they are the first in their family to go to college or even graduate high school. We are looking for students who can benefit from the motivation and accountability that mentors can provide.”

Since 1996, more than 1,200 students in Hillsborough County have been supported by the program. For the past three years, 100 percent of seniors in the program have graduated. Compare that with the graduation rate of 83 percent for atrisk students in 2022.

To apply, visit www.educationfoundation.com/tsic-scholarships. For information, including on how to become a mentor, contact Corman at 813-463-4283 or acorman@educationfoundation.com.

CELEBRATING SIX YEARS IN BUSINESS!

Ha Pham, Owner

BY MICHAEL MURPHY

March and April started out with incredible winds, but May presents better fishing opportuni-ties this season. Tarpon will be showing in the large passes and inshore reefs this time of year. Break out your heavier tackle for these giant silver kings.

Tarpon can be caught on pass crabs, thread fins and dead cut mullet. They are both live-bait eaters and dead-bait scavengers. They get a little moody sometimes so don’t get frustrated. Once they start to feed, it’s not uncommon to hook up with several in a row. When you target these beasts, pay attention to the tides and moon phases. Keep that knowledge in your brain bank and adjust the times to the same environmental settings.

Start with 4/0 to 7/0 hooks on a 60# to 80# leader line. It’s somewhat of a waiting game with these fish, but idle around in the passes or casually drift till you see them breaking the surface or show up on the depth finder, then hold on!

Snook will be closed in May, June, July

and August to harvest but can still be caught. Many of the large females and males will head into the bigger passes for the season spawn, but there will still be plenty in the shallows.

The grasses are back and flush. This will hold many trout and snapper for the anglers to play with and potentially harvest. Try to use plastic baits for the trout. You will find a much better catch rate and it is much better release result using the plastics. Find the depth that the trout are resting in and work the areas.

Spanish mackerel will also be running the flats. Plastics work for them also, but live greenies tend to give the best results. Don’t resort to using a steel leader for these toothy critters, but instead try a #40 leader. They tend to shy away from the steel. Also, run an extra-long shank, #1 silver hook. This will give you a little better chance to keep the fish on the hook.

School is almost out, time to get in shape after a hard year of learning!

Come join us for Youth itness amp at Anytime Fitness located at Park Square Starting May 29th.

https://www.anytimefitness.com/schedule online/?club=4090

Te Hillsborough Education Foundation’s (HEF) Take Stock in Children (TSIC) mentoring program pairs adult mentors with at-risk students to help them graduate high school and provide an opportunity to attend college. Shown here are mentor Dr. Marie Whelan and her mentee, Joseph’Lafay.

Summer Youth Camp

THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA’S NEW SEASON CELEBRATES MUSIC OF AMERICA AND BEYOND

The Florida Orchestra (TFO) will celebrate the unique musical language of America in its new 2023-24 season this fall. Inspired by the 100th anniversary of Gershwin’s groundbreaking Rhapsody in Blue, music director

Michael Francis is featuring a wide range of American composers from Aaron Copland to Wynton Marsalis alongside global masterpieces by Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Mozart, Dvorak and more. In September, he launches the premier Hough Family Foundation Masterworks series with a bang: Holst’s The Planets paired with the thrilling Percussion Collective. In the Raymond James Pops series, the circus meets the symphony in Cirque Dances with Troupe Vertigo, in addition to Twist & Shout, a tribute to 60 years of The Beatles in America; a supersonic SciFi Spectacular of space-themed movies and TV music; and the very merry tradition of Holiday Pops.

“This season, we’ll take audiences on a journey across America’s musical landscape as we explore our musical roots and where we are today. Alongside the story of American music, we will delight our Tampa Bay community with beloved classics from around the world,” said Francis. “New this season will be secret ‘mystery pieces’ — moments of discovery and fun that won’t be listed in the program. We remain passionate about reflecting the diferent cultures that make up Tampa Bay and beyond.”

At the heart of TFO’s 56th season, Maestro Francis will conduct featured soloist

Staf

Stewart Goodyear in Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue (February 1718, 2024). This masterpiece combined jazz and classical to change music forever when it premiered 100 years ago in 1924.

The concert will spotlight works by three more American composers: Marsalis’ Herald, Holler & Hallelujah; Mason Bates’ Alternative Energy; and Leonard Bernstein’s Three Dance Episodes from On the Town

For the first time ever, all 13 Hough Family Foundation Masterworks concerts will include a surprise, unlisted ‘mystery piece’ personally chosen by Francis.

This October brings another important American masterpiece, Copland’s Appalachian Spring (Saturday and Sunday, October 21-22), showcasing the beauty of the distinctly American sound. The program also features Grammy-nominated baritone Jubilant Sykes performing American spirituals that highlight our African American heritage.

For 2024, more big moments in TFO’s core classical series include Dvorak’s New World Symphony (April 12-14), Beethoven’s heroic Eroica Symphony (April 5-7, 2024), Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6 (January 19-20) and Elgar’s Enigma Variations (May 17-19). The series wraps up with Mahler’s epic Symphony No. 2, “Resurrection” (May 25-26), which features the Master Chorale of Tampa Bay.

For more information and season tickets, visit https://floridaorchestra.org/.

I Want to Be Your

A REALTOR IS NOT A SALESPERSON. THEY’RE A MATCHMAKER. THEY INTRODUCE PEOPLE TO HOMES, UNTIL THEY FALL IN LOVE WITH ONE. THEN THEY’RE A WEDDING PLANNER.

DOWNTOWN MURALS CREATE OUTDOOR ART MUSEUM

What do Tom Brady, Tweety Bird and Freddy Mercury all have in common? They are all subjects of murals located in beautiful downtown Tampa.

Whether you drive, bike or scooter, find a beautiful day and trek to the city for a fun and adventurous mural tour.

From Ybor City to the Channelside District to Ashley Street, there is an eclectic collection of art, much of which was co7mmissioned by the City of Tampa. For an interesting and in-depth compilation, you can visit www.tampasdowntown.com or Google Tampa’s Downtown Mural Tour.

To highlight a small, yet dense, sampling of the mural art in Tampa, we start at Cass Street, west of Nebraska Avenue, where you will find the Tampa Firefighters Museum on your left with a beautifully painted flag covering the entire north side of the building. On the right, see one of Tampa’s largest murals on the Navara Apartments, featuring legendary musicians Elton John, Freddie Mercury and Jimi Hendrix.

Head north on to Florida Avenue and discover a plethora of interesting murals,

By Kerrie Hoening

including a few pictures of Tom Brady and the famous Florida Avenue Mural, also known as the ‘Tampa Postcard,’ depicting images of Tampa’s past and present. Head further north, crossing under the I-275 corridor, and you suddenly happen upon a whole new world of wall art on every building. On neighboring Franklin Street, many of the murals cover entire buildings. If driving, you’ll probably need to park and then enjoy a leisurely stroll around the whole block.

After a brief respite at Armature Works, you’ll head south on Tampa Street, driving back toward the city. Here, at 1715 N Tampa St., you will find the poignant Kobe and Gianna Bryant mural, lovingly titled Daddy’s Little Girl. A little further down, you’ll also notice a couple of Tweety Bird murals, freshly painted to celebrate the 80th birthday of Tweety Bird. As you cross back under the interstate, Tampa’s newest mural, only weeks old, can be found on the right, stating the obvious for all who live in our great city, “We Love Downtown.”

Lady Gaga.

Yellow Brick Row.

Maestro Michael Francis, music director at Te Florida Orchestra.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY EXTENSION

OFFICE OFFERS FINANCIAL EDUCATION FOR RESIDENTS

The Hillsborough County Extension Office is an education service provided by the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Services (IFAS) and Hillsborough County. The Extension Services provides a variety of services including education and information. Its services are provided to Hillsborough County residents through workshops, publications and mass media.

Lisa Leslie, an Extension agent for family and consumer sciences, explained, “Classes are ofered online for the general public. There are in-person classes available upon request to groups. For example, I do a weekly class for Brewster College ESOL students.”

Leslie added, “We ofer an on-demand class called Building Financial Stability which people can participate at their own pace and own time. This class ofers an opportunity to learn basic strategies to achieve financial stability. Registration is free and ongoing.”

Leslie said, “We also ofer an on-demand class called Florida Master Money Mentor Training. This nine-module training is for people seeking to volunteer, looking for professional development or just increase their knowledge and help friends and family. One hundred percent discounts are available to those who need to have the $45.95 fee waived. They just need to complete the

MOFFITT AMBULATORY CENTER COMING TO SOUTH HILLSBOROUGH

By Brian Bokor

By Kathy L. Collins

scholarship form.”

As this is tax season, residents should know Hillsborough County Extension Service is ofering a link to free tax software to residents whose adjusted gross income on the tax return does not exceed $73,000. Leslie explained, “Adjusted gross income does not include things like tax deductible contributions to retirement plans or Health Savings Accounts. To receive the link, complete a short form at https://go.ufl.edu/taxreturn and provide your name, email and zip code. Once the form is completed, you will instantly be provided the free link to a robust tax software program. If requested, one-on-one assistance can be provided via web conference, telephone or email by providing a telephone number and a best time to contact.”

Once the form is completed, an IRS VITA-certified Extension agent will reach out to you to schedule an appointment. Please note, assistance is available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The Hillsborough County Extension Office has been ofering services since 1914. Leslie said, “Classes are ofered to enable people to improve their financial situation and for the good of the community.”

The Hillsborough County Extension Ofce is located at 5339 County Rd. 579 in Sefner. To register and get more information, please visit www.hcflgov.net/extension.

Moftt Cancer Center has acquired 9 acres in Ruskin, ofering access to thousands more patients in need of cancer treatment. The new facility will be located at the southeast intersection of East College Avenue and 27th Street South in Ruskin, less than a mile from Interstate 75.

Moftt plans to build a 75,000-squarefoot facility, with construction starting in early 2023 and to be completed by late 2024. The 2-story facility will employ cutting-edge technology that covers the gamut of cancer treatment options, including screening and diagnostics, radiation oncology, biopsies, medical oncology, infusion, clinical trials and a pharmacy. Moftt is expecting to serve nearly 9,000 patients by year four and create 150 jobs by year five.

Included in the new building will be 16 clinical examination rooms, 20 infusion bays (four private) and 10 blood draw labs. The radiation oncology department will ofer four exam rooms, along with two linear accelerator devices (LINACs) and a CT simulator to provide optimum setup accuracy for patients who will be receiving radiation therapy. A LINAC delivers high-energy X-rays or electrons to the region of the patient’s tumor.

The radiology department will have four

CTs, four MRIs, two mammography machines, one DEXA machine to measure bone density and one X-ray. Additionally, nuclear medical treatment will be ofered at the facility with a nuclear camera, also referred to a gamma camera, available on-site. Patients are injected with a gamma-ray-emitting substance that accumulates in the organ of interest, and a special camera records the gamma rays. It difers from a CT scan, which is usually a series of X-rays taken from diferent directions that are then assembled into a three-dimensional model of the subject in a computer.

“Moftt is building incredible momentum to expand our footprint and bring cancer care closer to where our patients live,” said Dr. Patrick Hwu, president and CEO of Moffitt, when asked about the new Ruskin location.

With locations at the University of South Florida, Wesley Chapel, International Plaza and Fowler Avenue, a presence in Southeastern Hillsborough County will allow local residents the care provided by Moftt without the hassle associated with the trip to other campuses, as some patients require daily treatment.

Moftt is also developing 775 acres in Pasco County, the largest expansion in the cancer center’s history. The multiyear, multiphase project will include about 16 million square feet of research lab, general ofce and clinical building space.

For information, reach Steve Blanchard, Moftt’s public relations account coordinator, at steve.blanchard@moftt.org.

A detailed overview of Moftt Cancer Center’s new facility in Ruskin.

Te Hillsborough County Extension Ofce, established in 1914, has helped thousands of Hillsborough County residents with their fnancial education programs. Te ofce is located in Sefner.

TAMPA ELECTRIC TO DISMANTLE TWO CHIMNEYS AT BIG BEND POWER PLANT

Staf Report

GET THE DIRT: UF/IFAS HELPS IDENTIFY AND AVOID INVASIVE PLANTS

BY LYNN BARBER, FLORIDA-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPING™ AGENT

The skyline of Apollo Beach will change in the coming months, as Tampa Electric will remove two of the three chimneys at Big Bend Power Station.

“Big Bend’s chimneys have been landmarks in Apollo Beach for decades,” said Allan Williams, director of Big Bend Power Station. “This will dramatically change the landscape.”

The Big Bend Modernization project repowered Big Bend Unit 1 with stateof-the-art combined-cycle technology and eliminated coal as that unit’s fuel. The project is part of the company’s strategy to reduce carbon, and it will improve the land, water and air emissions at Big Bend as part of TECO’s legacy of environmental stewardship.

With the modernization project complete, removing the chimneys is part of a five-year plant dismantlement project. Preliminary work has begun, and the most visible progress will begin in May. The removal of the chimneys will be complete in the autumn.

The chimneys were built in the 1970s and served Big Bend Units 1, 2 and 3 for about five decades. Units 1 and 2 began operating in 1970 and ’73, and they shared a chimney. Unit 3 began operating in ’76 and will retire in April. An older chimney was removed in 2016.

The 500-foottall chimneys are made with an inner liner of brick and have an outer shell of poured reinforced concrete. They will be dismantled in pieces by a specialized team, beginning at the top. The large pieces of concrete will be removed from inside the structure.

Tampa Electric expects to recover 10 percent of construction costs through recycling and reselling some obsolete portions of the plant. Some metal will be recycled or sold as scrap; some equipment, such as pumps and motors, will be sold on the secondhand market. This is the first time Tampa Electric has recycled metals or components on such a large scale.

Big Bend’s Unit 4 remains in operation with natural gas or coal as its fuel, and its chimney will remain in use. 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.

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. For more information, visit www.tampaelectric.com.

Invasive plants can create havoc in your yard by displacing native vegetation. Their populations explode, with catastrophic efects. Those include displacing native and non-native adaptive plants and disrupting naturally balanced plant communities.

When our native and non-native adaptive plants are destroyed and replaced by invasive species, we encounter significant consequences. These include an aggressively hostile plant takeover, ecological problems such as habitat degradation or biodiversity loss, high management costs and significant impacts to recreational areas, which result in economic losses. We want to reduce the number of invasive plants invading your yard. To help, UF/IFAS developed the Assessment of Non-native Plants in Florida’s Natural Areas. This online resource, available at https://assessment.ifas.ufl.edu/, provides information about invasive plants and invasive plant potential around the state and those under caution in other areas.

Note that the status of a plant can change from being acceptable to being a high invasion risk based on the above criteria. One such plant, Liriope (common names: monkey grass, lily turf and border grass), has been determined to be invasive. In the newly published “Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Guide to Plant Selection and Landscape Design,” this plant is no longer included.

Here are three of many of the ‘worst ofenders’ among invasive plants:

•Scientific name: Melaleuca quin-

quenervia

Common name: Melaleuca, paper bark, punk tree. Prohibited in North, Central and South Florida. The only good thing about this tree is that the harvested byproduct is melaleuca mulch which has high termite resistance.

• Scientific name: Paederia foetida

Common name: Skunk vine.

Prohibited and high invasion risk in North, Central and South Florida. It has a foul smell (thus the name) and is extremely difcult to control. This plant can well be an unfortunate ‘gift’ from and to your neighbors. Vines can reach a length of 30 feet.

• Scientific name: Lantana strigocamara , Shrub Verbena.

Common name: Lantana. Invasive in North, Central and South Florida. All parts of this plant are toxic and have impacted livestock, pets and children, according to the Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants, University of Florida IFAS. There are non-invasive varieties. Look for those.

The assessment uses science-based tools to evaluate the risk of invasion by non-native species, new species that might arrive here and novel agricultural and horticultural varieties. The assessment, in conjunction with the UF/IFAS Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants and the UF/IFAS “Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Guide to Plant Selection and Landscape Design,” can provide you with the information you need to make appropriate plant selections. Let’s get outside and garden!

For more information, contact Lynn Barber at labarber@ufl.edu.

Two of Big Band Power Station’s chimneys will be removed by the autumn as part of a fve-year plant dismantlement project. Te chimney with the red stripe at the top will remain standing.

Scientifc name: Paederia foetida. Common name: Skunk vine.

Scientifc name: Melaleuca quinquenervia. Common name: Melaleuca, paper bark, punk tree.

Scientifc name: Lantana strigocamara, Shrub Verbena. Common name: Lantana.

While sports fans are usually most passionate about one sport, most sports fans love The Sandlot , a movie based on a group of neighborhood kids connecting through baseball.

The Sandlot resonates with them because of sports, the camaraderie of the kids, the nostalgia of the time and the plight of the characters.

What most people in our community don’t know is that Sandlot’s Tommy ‘Repeat’ Timmons graduated from Bloomingdale High School in 2001. Tommy is Bloomingdale’s Shane Obedzinski. He was born and raised in Brandon and owns Times Square Pizza in Bloomingdale Square with Charlie Jonathan.

This year is the 30th anniversary of The Sandlot . The movie premiered in April of 1993. Celebrations are being held all over the country this year, namely in Utah in August, where the movie was filmed. Shane will be there with his Sandlot co-stars.

Obedzinski’s acting career started at the age of 3 in a Kool-Aid commercial. He credits his mom, Peggy Lawson, for recognizing his potential and giving him the leeway to follow his heart. He turned 10 on the set of The Sandlot

“As I get older, I realize I was a part of something incredibly special,” Obedzinski said.

In The Sandlot , Babe Ruth said, “Remember, kid, there’s heroes and there’s

By Jane Owen

legends. Heroes get remembered, but legends never die. Follow your heart, kid, and you’ll never go wrong.”

Obedzinski puts his heart into all he does and loves living in Brandon. Our community is made up of hardworking people. Shane just happens to be a hardworking Bloomingdale business owner who was in a famous movie. He wouldn’t change anything.

“There’s not a lot of places in the world like Florida. There’s not a lot of places where you grow up and you still like it as much as you did when you were a kid. I’ve been lucky to travel my whole life, and there’s nowhere else I would rather be than this area of Florida,” Obedzinski said.

Obedzinski and Jonathan embody the sense of community portrayed in The Sandlot , as they support all things local. The pizzeria highlights artwork from Burns Middle School and Bloomingdale High School, and they donate pizzas weekly to Brandon Regional Hospital, welcome highlighting local artists and quite simply love connecting with customers on a personal level.

And great news for all Sandlot fans: A Sandlot television series based in the late 80s is set for next year with the movie’s players and their kids.

Times Square Pizza is located in Bloomingdale Square at 927 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. For more information, visit https://tspizzaco.com/ or call 813-651-0122.

Shane Obedzinski, Te Sandlot’s Tommy ‘Repeat’ Timmons, and Charlie Jonathan own Times Square Pizza in Brandon.

Te Sandlot actors will reunite in Utah in August to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the iconic movie.

COACHING SPOTLIGHT: SCOTT PALMER NEWSOME

GIRLS BASKETBALL

By Jonathan Hurst

THREE BLOOMINGDALE LACROSSE CAPTAINS CELEBRATE ADMITTANCE TO MILITARY SERVICE ACADEMIES

By Jane Owen

A jack of many trades, coach Scott Palmer has many responsibilities at Newsome High School. The current girls’ varsity basketball coach, Palmer is also on staf for football and flag football.

Despite having a lot of balls in the air for the entire school year and beyond, Palmer still manages to be an efective mentor and coach to the players in his program.

Many years of experience coaching a myriad of sports across Hillsborough County has helped mold Palmer into the coach he is now. Over the 27 years of his career, he has made pit stops all over Hillsborough County before arriving at Newsome 10 years ago. His coaching history includes head football coach stints at Leto and Spoto high schools, with assistant coach roles at East Bay High School and, of course, Newsome as well. Additional positions held by Palmer include assistant coaching jobs in track at Leto, Riverview and Spoto and in flag football at East Bay and Newsome.

A self-described student of the game, it makes sense that Palmer would find his way into coaching, as his father and grandfather both coached. Wasting little time, Palmer was already helping out at his old high school and engaging in volunteer opportunities in his community before he had even graduated from college.

“I guess it’s in my blood. I have always

enjoyed working with young people, watching them succeed and grow as players, teammates and people,” Palmer said.

A key element of what has allowed Palmer to find success in so many diferent environments is the way he is able to build relationships with his players, and his genuine interest in their successes, on and of the field. The connections that he fosters with his players are truly pivotal and are one of the aspects of coaching he enjoys the most.

While Palmer has been able to achieve a lot in the realm of coaching, it has not come at the expense of success, as many of the teams he has been involved with coaching have won multiple district championships. He was an assistant coach the year the Newsome girls’ flag football team won a state title.

“Winning is great and we have been successful at Newsome, but athletics isn’t forever. … I hope my former players know that I am in their corner cheering for them. I want them to flourish in every aspect of life,” explained Palmer.

With each year presenting a new challenge, Palmer aims to help his players maximize their potential while reaching their team goals. With the plan of coaching as long as physically able, Palmer will continue to be a staple of Newsome athletics well into the future.

“If everyone is thinking alike, then someone isn’t thinking,” said George S. Patton, one of the best-known American generals in World War II. His words mean that if every person is thinking the same, then every person is just a follower.

Ryan Mothershed Cases, Lelyn Kirby and Simeon Rate are leaders. They are all captains on the Bloomingdale High School lacrosse team. They also have all accepted prestigious appointments to U.S. service academies. Cases and Kirby will attend the United States Naval Academy. Rate will attend the United States Air Force Academy.

Bloomingdale’s lacrosse coach, Cody Gray, said it is very rare to find the leadership qualities they possess as high school athletes. They lead by example and exude accountability.

“They’ve demonstrated immense accountability in both holding themselves accountable, but even more importantly their teammates. This can bring a lot of confrontation to the table if done incorrectly. However, I trusted them both seasons as their coach to do so in a radically candid manner. They cared personally, but also challenged their teammates directly.

Memory

“Living

This balance is extremely hard to accomplish even for some of the best leaders in the world,” Gray said.

All three students had different reasons for applying to the academies. Cases will be fourth-generation military, Rate’s dad and brother attended the Air Force Academy and Kirby felt the Naval Academy would give him tools for success to help others.

The desire to serve is what will continue to make them good leaders.

“Growing up, I knew that no matter what I did after high school, I wanted to serve others,” said Rate.

“What inspired me to apply to the academy is my desire to do good and give back to my country,” said Kirby.

“Having received the appointment, I know that I’m no longer doing things for me but for those around me because everything is not about me at this point, it’s about us,” said Cases.

According to Gray, their combination of leading by example with efective communication led players to follow. Simply put, he said, they are an inspiration for others and will have a huge impact on our county for years to come.

Coach Cody Gray stands proudly with Bloomingdale’s lacrosse players Simeon Rate, Ryan Mothershed Cases, Lelyn Kirby who are heading to the U.S. service academies

Coach Scott Palmer (back row center, dark blue shirt) with his team after winning 2023 district championship.