Brandon/Winthrop
19
January 2024
Volume 19, Issue 1
Ph: 813-657-2418
Y EIAN R REVIEW
36
CELEBRATING 22 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS
12TH ANNUAL PLANES, TRAINS AND AUTOMOBILES RETURNS TO PLANT CITY AIRPORT
Staff Report
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The 12th annual Planes, only aircraft and Trains and Automobiles aviation opporpresented by Tampa Intunities at their ternational Airport is local airport but returning on Saturday, a wide variety of February 10. The be‘how things work’ loved one-day communidisplays and fun ty event features a wide educational acvariety of family activitivities to capture ties held each year at the the imaginations Plant City Airport since of our local youth,” 2010. said PT&A ComFeatured highlights will mittee Chairman be numerous real aircraft and event founder on display, radio-conJason Jones. He trolled aircraft displays added, “We are and demonstrations, a very pleased to large car show and operbe working again ating model train layouts. with the TamA major LEGO display feapa Bay Aviation turing all modes of transAssociation, and portation is scheduled. with their help First responder vehicles we are adding and personnel, along with aviation scholartrain safety vehicles and ships and other equipment, will also be in Planes, Trains and Automobiles, a fami- opportunities to the lineup. There will be ly-friendly community event, returns to the the benefits of our Plant City Airport in February. many hands-on stations event. It’s really a for kids, including STEM education ex- great partnership.” hibits and flight simulators from SUN ’n Planes, Trains and Automobiles is manFUN’s Aerospace Center for Excellence, aged by the Tampa Bay Aviation AssoYoung Eagles discovery flights conduct- ciation and presented by Tampa Intered by Plant City Experimental Aircraft national Airport. As noted by Jones, in Association Chapter 1178, Scout merit addition to promoting and delivering this badge opportunities, a pinewood derby amazing community event, the organizaand many other activities. Younger chil- tion will be taking donations and comdren will enjoy inflatable bounce houses mitting proceeds after expenses to fund and other fun adventures just for them. aviation scholarships and other programs Food trucks and local vendor displays for local youth. The scholarships will be will also be part of the lineup where area for flight training, mechanic and profesbusinesses can showcase their products sional career education. Families are inand services to attendees. vited to come and join the fun. “The purpose of the event has always Parking is free. Ticket pricing is $7.50 been to give families an affordable day online in advance, or $10 at the gate. Vistogether discovering the wonders of it www.mytbaa.org/pta for tickets and transportation, introducing them to not event information
TRIDENT HOSTS HOLIDAY SHOW FOR STUDENTS AND THE COMMUNITY
By Lily Belcher
High 5 Inc.’s dents gain the TRIDENT program key planning and hosted its annumanagement al talent show to skills they need. showcase the skills “What our proof the program’s gram mostly fostudents. cuses on, or we TRIDENT, or try to focus on, Training and Recis day-to-day life reational for the skills and helping Intellectually them to improve Disabled Enhanctheir indepening their Natural TRIDENT students participated in a talent show to dence or gain showcase their skills. Talents, hosted more indepenthe holiday show dence,” he said. on December 15, “… It gives them 2023, for around that sense of in150 community dependence and members. responsibility.” “Going into the Somers also holidays, our stusaid TRIDENT dents, they’re like will host cookeverybody else. ing classes this They want to peryear. While famform. They want TRIDENT’s annual holiday show gave students the ily members of opportunity to perform. to show off their the students had skills,” TRIDENT director Joe Somers. concerns about the risks associated with Somers said the show gave the 24 par- cooking, TRIDENT developed a way to ticipants the opportunity to do just that: teach students to cook for themselves perform. He said future shows will be using microwaves and other lower-risk more than just singing. Students will be appliances. responsible for creating their own cosStudents will continue to learn imtumes, sets and props to include a wider portant skills, such as creating a budget, variety of talents. using computer programs and hands-on The annual holiday show is just one of workforce development, through the day the events hosted by TRIDENT for stu- and after-school programs available. dents to gain and showcase their skills. TRIDENT is also earning its Agency for Since Somers took over the program Persons with Disabilities provider status in April 2022, he has emphasized inde- early this year. The status will allow it to pendence for students in the program. accept Medicaid and Medicare for stuHe said his approach is to encourage stu- dents hoping to join the program. dents and offer them assistance when For more information on the opportuneeded. nities created for students through the For example, he said TRIDENT students TRIDENT program, visit https://high5inc. will play an active role in planning and ex- org/trident-2/. ecuting a potential walkathon fundraiser event this spring to support the program. “We have a lot of ideas that we haven’t finalized. … That’s one of the things we RODEO MUSIC FEST ..........................PG 3 are trying to teach [the students], that HEF SCHOLARSHIPS ......................... PG 7 ‘Hey, it’s great to have ideas, but let’s talk BELL SHOALS OPEN .......................PG 10 through the process of what it’s going to EYE ON BUSINESS ...........................PG 21 take,’” Somers said. By giving students a hands-on role in YEAR IN REVIEW .....................PG 24-28 the planning process, Somers helps stu-
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 19, Issue 1
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HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FIRE RESCUE DEPUTY CHIEF OF ADMINISTRATION JASON DOUGHERTY NAMED FIRE CHIEF
Staff Report
Hillsborough County Fire ment that made great Rescue (HCFR) Deputy Chief strides under the leadof Administration Jason ership of Jones. Jones Dougherty will be the next joined HCFR as fire fire chief of HCFR, one of the chief in 2015, having largest fire rescue departpreviously served as ments in Florida. Former Fire fire chief for six years. Chief Dennis Jones officialOver the years, the ly retired on December 22, growth of HCFR was a 2023, with 45 years dedicatmajor focus for Jones. ed to fire rescue service — all As Hillsborough Counto the residents of Hillsborty’s population steadily Deputy Chief of Administration Jaough County and the city of grew, so did the need son Dougherty was recently named Tampa. for more firefighters as the next fire chief of HCFR. Dougherty has been with and fire stations to HCFR since 2016, has over 23 years of ex- serve all residents in all areas of the counperience in the fire service and has served as ty. Among his many accomplishments and second-in-command to Jones for five years. achievements, Jones oversaw the opening As deputy chief of administration, Dough- of multiple new Hillsborough County fire erty managed and oversaw HCFR’s $260 stations and station rebuilds and the 2017 million budget, maintained 46 fire stations, opening of the Public Safety Operations handled logistics and oversaw fleet opera- Complex, which serves as HCFR’s headquartions and the Emergency Dispatch Center ters and the county’s emergency operations — responsibilities that prepared him to take center during hurricanes and other emerover as fire chief of the fourth-largest fire gency declarations. department in Florida. During his tenure, the department added A dedicated servant to public safety, more than 200 new positions, rebuilt eight Dougherty started his firefighting career stations and added three new stations that in Thomasville, Georgia, in 1999 and joined feature the latest safety measures, includTampa Fire Rescue in 2001. He rose through ing decontamination systems, modern stathe ranks with Tampa Fire Rescue from tion-alerting systems designed to prioritize firefighter to ultimately becoming division the mental well-being of first responders training chief in 2014. His previous roles, and custom-made individualized bunker which also included paramedic, lieutenant, gear for all the county’s firefighters. SWAT medic, fire training officer and fire Earlier this year, Jones was named the captain, have afforded him vast experience 2023 Florida Career Fire Chief of the Year in managing medical and fire scenes, coor- by the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association. dinating multiple teams of responders, deDougherty earned his bachelor’s degree veloping policies and procedures, presenting in health science education from the Unicapital improvement projects and managing versity of Florida and his master’s degree and preparing an annual budget. in organizational leadership from WalDougherty is set to take over a depart- dorf University.
Page 3
TAMPA BAY RODEO ANNOUNCES
FIRST-EVER BULL BASH & COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL JANUARY 26-27 Staff Report Tampa Bay Rodeo announces the first-ever Bull Bash & Country Music Festival, taking place on Friday and Saturday, January 26 and 27 at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds. Country music Award-winning, multilegend John platinum country artist Michael Mont- John Michael Montgomery gomery and ris- headlines on Friday night, ing star Priscilla January 26 at the first-ever Block headline Bull Bash & Country Music Festival. the festival, with Montgomery taking the stage during the Bull Bash intermission on Friday night and Block taking the stage during the same competition break on Saturday night. The best bull riders in the region compete for the title and cash prizes in this multiround competition. After the music festival at intermission, the Bull Bash resumes with the final rounds to crown the winner. The second half includes the fan-favorite Hard Cash Giveaway, where cowboys test their speed, agility and courage as they race on foot to capture cash that is tied between the bull’s horns. Tickets are on sale now for this electrifying event. Montgomery is an award-winning, multiplatinum country music artist with gold record hits like “I Swear,” “Leave a Mark”
and “Brand New Me” to his name. Block, the first country music act to break from the social media platform TikTok, was nominated for the Academy of Country Music Academy of Country Music Award for New Female Artist nominee for New Female Artist of the Year Priscilla of the Year and Block performs on Saturday CMT’s Breaknight, January 27 at the through Video Bull Bash & Country Music of the Year. Festival. Fans can arrive early to enjoy live music from Tampa-area artists, eat delicious food, have a cold beer and test their skills on the mechanical bull before the Bull Bash begins. Randy McNeeley performs on Friday, and Cross Fire Creek performs Saturday night; their performances begin at 5:45 p.m. each night. Gates open at 5:00 p.m., the Bull Bash begins at 7:30 p.m. and the headliners take the stage at approximately 8:15 p.m. each night. The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds is located at the intersection of State Road 60 and Sydney Washer Road, just east of Brandon. General parking is free, with premium parking available at $25 per car. This is a rain-or-shine event. For more information, visit https://hillsboroughcountyfair.com/bull-bash/.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 19, Issue 1
FLORIDA DOT HONORED WITH 2023 LIBRARY2GO SERVES RESIDENTS NATIONAL ROAD SAFETY AWARD AT DIFFERENT STOPS ACROSS THE Staff Report TAMPA-HILLSBOROUGH AREA The Florida Departtor, who is also a proment of Transporgram director at the tation (FDOT) was University of South honored with a 2023 Florida’s Center for National Roadway Urban TransportaSafety Award for tion Research. “If we demonstrating can reduce risky how increasing driving behavior, pavement friction that means we The FDOT received helps motorists can reduce the a 2023 National stop more quickly and Roadway Safety Award. The award recog- potential for crashes. retain better control nizes innovations to protect pedestrians, Better friction beat high-speed intersectween tires and the cyclists and motorists. tions. pavement makes a big difference.” As part of a pilot project started in “It works,” said Peter Hsu, who initiat2020, FDOT added highly skid-resistant ed the study as the FDOT District safety material to the road surface at three Hills- administrator for Tampa Bay. “It helps borough Avenue intersections in Tampa to reduce stopping distance and improper see how much it would enable vehicles to stopping behaviors invading the crosscome to a stop within a shorter distance. walks at signalized intersections.” The goal was to reduce “improper stopThe findings are significant in a state ping behavior,” such as vehicles ending up where about 1,000 people die every year in crosswalks, which puts pedestrians and in intersection collisions. Between 2013 cyclists at risk. and 2022, about 27 percent of traffic faFlorida and other states had used spe- talities and 35 percent of serious injuries cially engineered material to increase statewide occurred at intersections. friction on curves to prevent vehicles FDOT’s pilot study team included the from running off the road. However, this Federal Highway Administration and the is believed to have been the first time a Center for Urban Transportation Research U.S. transportation agency has used inter- at the University of South Florida, as well section high-friction treatment to reduce as consultants Element Engineering Group stopping distances and study its effect on and WDM USA. driver stopping behaviors at signalized inThe National Roadway Safety Awards, tersections, as is done in some European presented biannually since 1999, are sponcountries. sored by the Federal Highway AdministraFDOT’s two-year before-and-after study tion and the nonprofit Roadway Safety found that the increased friction reduced Foundation. Projects were evaluated on improper stopping behaviors at the three safety effectiveness, innovation and effisignalized intersections. On average, these cient use of resources. reductions ranged from 11-31 percent For complete details on each of the compared to the pretreatment conditions. winners and for more information on the “We want to be proactive,” said Pei- national awards program, visit www.roadSung Lin, the study’s principal investiga- waysafety.org/awards.
By Lily Belcher
Library2Go exeight to 15 peotends Hillsborough ple at each stop. County Public LiThese residents brary Cooperative’s utilize the internet services across the and book services Ta m p a - H i l l s b o r offered in the van, ough area through but residents can the program’s moalso register for a bile library. library card at the The original stops. bookmobile was “We’re a full limade possible The Library2Go staff brings the library’s resourc- brary on wheels,” es to residents on the go. during the Great Robinson said. Depression through He said the serthe Works Projects vice is an alternaAdministration, but tive for residents it looks much differwho are not as ent in 2024. The Lifamiliar with the brary2Go van offers wireless internet for online resources already offered through personal devices, wireless printing and the library. access to library materials. “We’re still looking to grow the service, Library2Go stops at 42 locations to so there are ways for residents of Hillsserve residents who cannot utilize the borough County and the sites in which services offered at the library, including they live to reach out to the county lielderly, disabled and underserved areas. brary,” Robinson said. “Our goal is to make sure all HillsborLibrary2Go also allows readers to place ough County residents, no matter where a hold on library materials, pick up their they’re from or their general disposition, holds and return library materials. They have access to full library services be- can also see a selection of books, videos, cause Hillsborough County’s library is a magazines and DVDs. tremendous resource. We offer a plethResidents can order Library2Go to ora of resources and services that are in- their area if the van does not already stop valuable,” Library2Go supervisor Michael near them by contacting the library. Robinson said. “We’re anxious for people to request Robinson said the most rewarding part the service to be brought out to them,” of working with Library2Go is seeing the Robinson said. happy faces of the residents they serve. For more information on Library2Go, “Getting to these locations and seeing visit https://hcplc.org/services/librarthat people are genuinely happy to see us y2go or contact 813-204-2678. The [is the most rewarding part],” he said. schedule and map of Library2Go’s stops Robinson said Library2Go sees around is available on the website as well.
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January 2024
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COVID-19 STILL AROUND AS
AGENCIES MONITOR AND ADVISE By Brad Stager While pandemic er COVID-19 rules protocols like “two regarding masking weeks to flatten the and vaccinations is COVID-19 curve” and the EMT training the following mask program operated and vaccine mandates out of Aparicio-Levy are pretty much in Technical College. the rearview mirror Students working for most Florida resiwith the program’s The CDC has COVID-19 vaccine formula dents, businesses and clinical partners are and shot schedule options it recommends institutions, the virus generally required to for people six months of age and older. is still circulating and follow their masking sickening people. and vaccine requireThe Centers for Disease ments. Control (CDC) continues Free COVID-19 tests are to monitor the presence of available from the CDC by COVID-19, and as it does invisiting www.covidtests. stitutions like Hillsborough gov, where you can also find County Public Schools are looking to the additional information about the current agency for ongoing guidance to set pol- state of the disease and recommended icies and inform families and students precautions. According to the agency’s who have questions. website, each home in the country can “The district continues to communi- order four at-home tests at no charge. cate CDC guidelines if and when a parent If the household has not requested any seeks guidance from our student health tests so far in 2023, a total of eight tests professionals,” said Hillsborough County can be ordered. Public Schools Chief of Chief of CommuThe CDC states on its website that nications Tanya Arja. if you know you have been exposed to Arja added that a doctor is the best COVID-19, you should wait at least five person to determine a student’s health days before taking a test. The CDC also status, and a basic guideline is that feel- suggests testing might be appropriate ing unwell is a sign to stay home and not before visiting someone, such as an oldstress too much over out-of-class time. er or chronically ill person, or attending “We let parents know that they should some social gatherings. follow the instructions from their doctor, As for how the virus may affect things which is typically to isolate for five days. like operating schools in Hillsborough Overall, if students and staff do not feel County, Arja said, “The health and wellwell, they should stay home. Our staff being of our students and staff is a priworks with parents on make-up assign- ority for the district.” ments that were missed due to illness.” The CDC’s www.vaccines.gov website Participation in one district educa- provides information about getting vaction program that may involve strict- cinated.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 19, Issue 1
TIPS FOR A HAPPIER AND
HEALTHIER NEW YEAR INBy2024 Ashley Abene
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
January 2024
Page 7
SHAPES FITNESS FOR WOMEN WANTS YOU TO LOVE YOURSELF
MANY SCHOLARSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE TO THE CLASS OF 2024
By Libby Hopkins
By Kathy L. Collins
Shapes Fitness bership. Rather, it for Women has exoffers the choice isted for more than of three custom35 years in the Braner-centered prodon community. In grams: Progressive 2013, the brand was Balance, where restructured as a customer can be franchise. personally coached There were two for eight weeks; common denomiPremier, which is a nators that made full amenity facility Shapes Fitness for The Shapes Fitness for Women brand has existed for package; and Base, more than 35 years in Brandon. Women successful which is an open in its 35-year run. First are its members who workout floor program. have very specific fitness, health and well“Women choose camaraderie, accountness goals, objectives and needs. Second is ability and community in a space they can the most recognized value-added relation- really call their own,” Gilbert said. “We love ship builder that all the members knew and the space, and we love the results. We also trusted: Ann D. Gilbert, instructor, trainer, love the skin you are in.” coach and corporate vice president of perGilbert and her team at Shapes would like sonal training/fitness. to reinforce the point that the relationship “I bought the franchise in 2013 and have building skill sets that are needed to sucrecently celebrated a 10-year anniversary,” cessfully work with health-and-wellnessGilbert said. “I am a firm believer in the focused customers are somewhat different women’s-only niche and am proud of the than working with customers who are only fact that our ‘Love Yourself’ theme and sup- fitness-focused. porting programming options have changed “Our team is made up of fitness profeslives for as many as 35 years in the area.” sionals who we call FitPro Hybrids,” Gilbert The Shapes Fitness for Women commu- said. “This means that they are fitness pronity is so engaging and nonjudgmental, that fessionals who not only have the technical its customer base has expanded beyond its skill sets of personal trainers and group traditional 48-90-plus age range to now in- exercise instructors, but they also have the clude the 25-plus age range. highest level of emotional intelligence skill “This 25-plus new group includes women sets as well. All of our FitPro Hybrids have who are intimidated by the ‘hard-core’ mem- an average of 15-plus years of delivering fitbers in the area’s other facilities,” Gilbert ness, health and wellness services.” said. “In February, we will offer a three-day If you’d like to learn more about Shapes pass to experience Group X classes, personal Fitness for Women or if you’d like to take training, our aquatic spa amenities and our advantage of its February promotion, you small group functional training sessions de- can visit its website at https://shapesfitsigned to empower our customers with ev- nessbrandon.com/ or call 813-661-0033. erything from HIIT to active aging.” Shapes Fitness for Women is located at 731 Shapes does not sell a contract or a mem- W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon.
High School stuphilosophy of peodents in the Class of ple helping people so 2024 in Hillsborough we can all grow and Count have the opporthrive.” tunity to apply for six Applications are $2,000 scholarship open until Wednesawards. This scholarday, January 31 ship program is made and are available at possible thanks to a https://educationpartnership between foundation.com/sethe Suncoast Credit niorscholarships. Union Foundation and The Suncoast the Hillsborough Edu- Students in the Class of 2024 have many scholarships are just opportunities to apply for scholarships. cation Foundation. one piece of the larger This year’s Sun- One of those scholarships is a $2,000 one, program that the Hillcoast Credit Union which will be awarded to six Hillsborough sborough Education Scholars program County students thanks to the partnership Foundation oversees. between the Suncoast Credit Union Founrepresents the conEach year, it gives out dation and the HEF. tinued mission of the around 200 scholarfoundation to support education initia- ships worth roughly $600,000. Students tives and the well-being and potential of can easily apply, as all it really involves is children. Since its inception in 1990, the filling out one simple application. There foundation has contributed more than are even scholarships for those who are $40 million, including over $2.9 million in looking to attend a technical college or scholarships. trade school in addition to traditional This year’s high school graduates in schools. Suncoast Credit Union’s 25-county serThe Hillsborough Education Foundation vice territory have the opportunity to ap- was founded in 1987. The Hillsborough Edply for financial support to continue their ucation Foundation is a nonprofit focused education, thanks to a $164,000 invest- on strengthening public education in Hillment in scholarships by the Tampa-based sborough County by supporting teachers credit union’s foundation. and empowering students to achieve ac“Our current students are the next gen- ademic and personal success. Together eration of leaders, and it is our duty to pre- with its community partners, Hillsborpare them with all the tools necessary to ough Education Foundation strategically be successful in the classroom to set them invests in initiatives that impact teaching up for a successful future,” said Kourtney quality, increase graduation rates and Berry, executive director of the Suncoast build equity in education. This bolsters a Credit Union Foundation. “Through our thriving workforce of tomorrow and the foundation and Suncoast Scholars pro- sustainable prosperity of Tampa Bay. gram, we are able to make direct impacts You can learn more about the Hillsboron students living in the communities we ough Education Foundation by visiting serve, which ties back to the credit union https://educationfoundation.com/.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 19, Issue 1
GREEN BOUTIQUE, STRAZ, CHICK-FIL-A & MORE OFFER SENIOR DISCOUNTS By Makenzie Atkins Noel In our community, many stores extend exclusive senior discounts to recognize the value of experience and cater to our seasoned residents. Senior discounts serve as a gesture of appreciation for the wealth of knowledge and loyalty seniors bring. From local trendy boutiques or popular attractions to craft stores and popular chains found nationwide, many Stop by The Green Boutique on Tuesdays Stopping into the Tampa Bay History Bring the family and enjoy a day walking There is always a unique show playing at places in the area offer and get a discount on the perfect gift, piece Center will fill you with the knowledge of through the 250,000-square-foot Florida the Straz Center. Catch a holiday classic or what growth Tampa has seen throughout Aquarium filled with native and exotic an eccentric new show with a discounted great savings. of jewelry or outfit. ticket. the years. animals. For decades, The Green Boutique has served as the perfect place If you are interested in a traditional and can be viewed at www.michaels.com/ sort of senior discount as well. AMC Theto grab a thoughtful gift, the final touch museum, then visit the Tampa Bay Histo- coupon-policy-and-price-guarantee#se- atres provides a senior discount on tickets for your home decorating project or even a ry Center for $2 off tickets for adults 60 nior-discount. for ages 60 and up every day. beautiful outfit right in Valrico. Every Tues- years old or older and learn about Tampa’s Many other national brands in retail, No matter what you are interested in day, this local favorite offers 10 percent off history throughout the decades. The history dining and travel offer senior discounts. trying around the community, many busifor everyone 55 years old and over. This se- center is open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily at There are quite a few restaurants, includ- nesses offer senior discounts. Websites like nior discount excludes purchases from the 801 Water St. in Tampa. Visit https://tam- ing Chick-fil-A, Chili’s, Dunkin’ and Sonic, www.theseniorlist.com/senior-discounts/ following brands: Brighton, Ronaldo, Sid pabayhistorycenter.org. that offer value for seniors, but as some are are a great resource. Most discounts start Dickens and Kendra Scott. Catch a show at the Straz Center for individually owned it is best to check with at 55 and up, but there are a few for 50 and Owner Rosalind Creager said, “We ap- Performing Arts and receive up to 50 per- the location closest to you to see what the many start at 60, so always read the fine preciate our senior customers and want to cent off tickets to select shows for seniors offer is. print. The important thing to remember offer them a special recognition.” ages 65 years old or over. Discounts are reKohl’s offers a senior discount on is to always ask when dining, shopping or The Green Boutique is located at 1032 deemable in person only at the box office Wednesdays for those ages 60 and older vacationing, as it may not be widely adverBloomingdale Ave. Visit https://greenbou- with a valid ID and guests can purchase and PetSmart has 10% off purchase and tised. Exploring these offerings optimizes tiquefl.com. up to two tickets per ID. Learn more about 10% off grooming on Tuesdays. Many cell both savings and overall fun for the senior Many Tampa attractions and experienc- the discount at the Straz Center at www. phone providers and airlines offer some community members in our area. es also offer discounted ticket prices for strazcenter.org/tickets-events/promotions/ seniors. Check out The Florida Aquarium seniors. The Straz Center is located at 1010 Locally Owned and Operated. Servicing and get approximately 10 percent off regu- N. Macinnes Place in Tampa. Pinellas, Pasco, and Hillsborough Counties lar-priced tickets for seniors ages 60 years If you are feeling crafty, you can find a KEEPING BAY AREA or older. The Florida Aquarium is a nonprof- great senior discount by visiting Michaels in it organization that offers many exhibits, Brandon for 10 percent off every purchase, PROPERTIES BUG FREE including animals of the wetlands, sting- including sale items. Customers must be SINCE 1998. rays, a coral reef exhibit, animals with no registered through the Michaels Rewards bones and more. The aquarium is open from account and be 55 years old or older to Request your free inspection or a quote for our services. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. daily at 701 Channelside use this discount online and in-store every Dr. in Tampa. Visit www.flaquarium.org. day of the week. Some exclusions apply Licensed & Certified Technicians
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January 2024
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
MOTION CHIROTHERAPY CELEBRATES FIVE YEARS OF SERVING THE COMMUNITY By Makenzie Atkins Noel A Motion Chiwhich has been a roTherapy office is game changer in the now celebrating five industry and has years of business helped patients reach since opening in the goals faster and safer community. than older technolDr. Robert Lutz ogy. StemWave is a opened his first Momedical device that tion ChiroTherapy utilizes harmless yet office in 2018 in the powerful acoustic FishHawk area, ofwaves to activate the fering nonsurgical body’s natural healing solutions for injuries Dr. Robert Lutz takes pride in being able mechanisms. and more. The second to offer the community a safe way to treat Lutz attended and prevent injuries. location opened in Northeastern Illinois Apollo Beach in order University, where he to expand its each to received a Bachelor other communities. of Science degree Motion ChiroTherin biology and later apy is a rehab-based earned a Doctor of sports injury chiropractic office with a Chiropractic degree from the National staff that wants you to be an active part University of Health Sciences (NUHS). of changing your biomechanics through Lutz has also attended over 300 hours movement. of advanced post-graduate coursework, “Through patient-specific care plans, including Motion Palpation Institute, we fix the root cause of your pain and Dynamic Neuromuscular Rehabilitation keep it away for good,” said Lutz. (DNS), McKenzie Method of Mechanical Motion ChiroTherapy offers chiroprac- Diagnosis and Therapy (the McKenzie tic care which treats problems like arthri- Method) and GRIP Approach. tis, muscle spasms, headaches, pinched “Each day I get to help people reach nerves and more. On top of chiropractic their goals,” said Lutz. “It might be a colcare, it also has performance care op- lege athlete getting a personal record or tions for athletes. Physicians are trained someone who would just like to hold their in techniques that professional athletes grandkids, and it is very rewarding.” and teams utilize to keep players safely As Motion ChiroTherapy celebrates five performing at their highest ability with years, it continues to offer patient-fotraining and conditioning. cused care and advanced treatments Motion ChiroTherapy is one of the for nonsurgical solutions and improved leaders in nonsurgical injuries. Lutz and health. his staff continue to learn and educate For more information, please call the themselves in order to offer new and im- Motion ChiroTherapy office at 813-793proved services as they become available. 7791 or visit https://motionchirotherapy. The newest tool added is StemWave, com/.
Page 9
THE PROJECT JOY GIVES A HELPING HAND FOR THOSE WHO SERVE OUR LEARNING YOUTH
By Libby Hopkins The Project Joy be adding additional is a local nonprofit schools in Hillsborough that was founded and to two schools by a group of retired in Pasco County,” educators, Rebecca Diaz said. “We are an Diaz, Linda Stanley, all-volunteer local nonJason Philpot and profit. Besides serving Louis Diaz, who were teachers at individuconcerned with the al sites, we also hold emotional and mencontests where groups tal well-being of the at schools won $500 teachers and staff each to create snack serving our youth. Rebecca Diaz, Linda Stanley, Jason Philpot carts, go-kart racing and Louis Diaz of The Project Joy. “While there are and adventures of their multiple avenues of support for children, choice. Last year, we were able to provide we found this area of need to be lacking for four local teachers with cash to help them to the adults within our educational system,” have the joy of supporting their own family said Rebecca. “The Project Joy began in members. We are currently visiting various a simple manner of providing opportuni- schools to provide teachers, administrators ties to inspire joy at Webb Middle School, and other educators who have reached out where Linda, Jason and myself served and to us to let us know that these adults were Louis had mentored the principal as he in need of a little extra joy. These special began his role in administration. At times, educators will receive monetary support to we provided breakfast, raffles, lunches and help them during this season.” treats on stressful days. As we grew, we As The Project Joy grows, it wishes to be added Michelle Chase, Shawna Berger and able to provide more support. Justin Rancourt. All three of these former “One way we are working toward this teachers served with Louis Diaz at Alonso goal is by partnering with Dakota Robitaille, High School. K.R. Lombardia, Jerry Jackson, who is moving forward on his Eagle Scout Eva Philpot and Cammie Yick have served in badge,” Diaz said. “He is designing and resupport positions in volunteering and fund- modeling Webb’s teachers’ lounge from a raising. Our logo was designed by Caleigh regular area to our first Room of Joy. This Yick, a local middle school student who ex- area will provide a calm, uplighting area for pressed a desire to do so in support of our teachers to meet and break bread together. teachers.” Our very lofty goal is to eventually grow to a From there, through all these individuals, level that perhaps we can partner with local The Project Joy was born. contractors to provide Homes of Joy for our The Project Joy has extended into more educators.” than 20 other schools, all within just two If you would like to learn more about short years. The Project Joy, you can visit its website at “Beginning in January 2024, we will www.theprojectjoy.net.
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Page 10
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
CASTAWAY FALLS, ADVENTURE ISLAND’S
ALL-NEW 2024 ATTRACTION, WILL FEATURE MORE THAN 100 PLAY ELEMENTS
Volume 19, Issue 1
COMMUNITY CELEBRATES LONG-AWAITED BELL SHOALS COMPLETION
By Brian Bokor
Staff Report
Adventure Ispark-wide modland®, Tampa’s ernized theme, premier water the recently park, will debut opened Shaka-LaCastaway Falls in ka Shores, wathe spring. The ter slides Rapids all-new multilevel, Racer and Wahoo interactive waRemix, the renoter-play attraction vation of Captain will feature more Pete’s, the popular Castaway Falls at Adventure Island is slated to than 100 play elfull-service Hang ements, including open in the spring and will feature more than 100 Ten Tiki Bar and play elements. two giant tipping new lounging arbuckets that dump more than 1,300 gal- eas and cabanas. lons of water combined. Adventure Island’s annual pass is the Castaway Falls will have four exciting best way to enjoy year-round family fun water slides, soakers, flow pipes, hose under the sun, such as the new Castaway jets, spray jets, water shooters, water cur- Falls and seasonal events included with tains, tipping troughs, spinning and sliding admission. Passholders enjoy monthly rebuckets and much more. The new attrac- wards on top of unlimited seasonal admistion replaces the former splash area and sion and benefits like free parking, in-park is double the size of the former Splash discounts and more. Attack, making the new addition to AdLocated right across the street from venture Island bigger and splashier than Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Adventure ever before. Island features a combination of exhila“We are thrilled about Adventure Is- rating water slides and tropical, tranquil land’s 2024 season,” said Stewart Clark, surroundings. At Tampa’s Island Paradise president of Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay await thrilling slides, such as Rapids Racand Adventure Island. “With the unveiling er, Wahoo Remix, Solar Vortex®, Vanish of Castaway Falls, the largest expansion in Point™, Caribbean Corkscrew® and Cothe water park’s history continues, adding lossal Curl™, waterfalls, a 17,000-squareattractions, dining options and events to foot wave pool, a children’s splash and enhance the guest experience.” play zone, Shaka-Laka Shores and other Harmonizing with the water park’s family attractions. Guests can dig their paradise-like ambiance, Castaway Falls toes into the sand or relax in lounge chairs resembles a splash haven and a fun-filled or a private cabana. retreat for the young and young at heart. Guests can visit https://adventureisland. Castaway Falls will immerse park guests com/ to purchase tickets and learn more in a watery world of excitement perfect about the annual pass program benefits, for all, even the littlest splashers. new events, special deals and future anCastaway Falls is part of the water nouncements. Follow Adventure Island on park’s largest expansion in more than Instagram, Facebook, X and YouTube for four decades. Said expansion includes a even more up-to-the-minute information.
Commissioner Michael Owen was at the recent ribbon-cutting to celebrate the opening of the newly widened Bell Shoals Road.
Residents and commuters who travel Bell Shoals Road will have a finished new corridor this month as a ribbon-cutting event celebrates the completion of the expanded roadway. The 3.1-mile corridor has two new vehicle lanes, bike lanes and sidewalks in both directions. A new traffic signal has been added at Starwood Avenue, and the existing signals at Glenhaven Drive, Rosemead Lane and Bloomingdale Avenue have been upgraded. In addition, the existing bridge over the Alafia River was widened. These tremendous enhancements will accommodate higher traffic volumes, improve stormwater drainage and boost the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists. Additionally, they will increase access to transit and alternative transportation while preserving infrastructure assets. The new Bell Shoals Road corridor is the latest in a string of massive infrastructure projects in Hillsborough County, including the Bruce B. Downs Boulevard expansion, the Citrus Park Drive extension and the Paseo al Mar Boulevard overpass connecting U.S. 301 and U.S. 41 in South County. All of these projects increased safety for drivers as well as pedestrians and bicyclists, and improved mobility across the county. The Bell Shoals Road project cost just over $70 million, including land acquisition and construction. The project was paid for with a variety of funding sources, including the Community Investment Tax (CIT), federal grants and mobility fees. The widening plans were introduced to the community at an open house public meeting held at the Bloomingdale Library in October 2018 with construction beginning soon after,
so the excitement to announce completion of the five-plus-year project was palpable. Representatives from five of unincorporated Hillsborough County’s seven districts were present for the ribbon-cutting, along with Carl Harness, chief human services administrator for Hillsborough County; Kim Byer, assistant county administrator of the Public Works Administration; and Suzy Watts, Bloomingdale Neighborhood Association president. “Bell Shoals is major thoroughfare for this community and all of East Hillsborough,” District 5 Commissioner Donna Cameron-Cepeda told the crowd, adding that the road and its artilleries “serve tens of thousands of people each day.” District 4 Commissioner Michael Owen, a longtime resident of the area, followed by explaining how important completion of Bell Shoals was to the surrounding area. He said, “This is where multiple communities come together to share this road,” including Brandon, Riverview to the west, Lithia to the south and Valrico to the east, while emphasizing there is still “more work to do on this side of town” as growth continues. Owen commended county staff and fellow Board of County Commissioners colleagues, stating that over the past year they’ve “turned a focus over to roads and infrastructure” after “hearing loud and clear from constituents,” promising to stay the course. He mentioned Lithia Pinecrest Road and Triple Creek Boulevard as roads that are “desperately needed”, with the Bell Shoals widening being the first step to achieving that goal.
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January 2024
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Page 11
LOCAL 11-YEAR-OLD GAVIN SHREEVE WINS AWARD FOR IBD ADVOCACY By Taylor Wells Gavin Shreeve, an his first IBD fund11-year-old Lithia resiraising event at 6 dent, recently received years old. By age a special award. He has 7, he became a been battling Crohn’s guest speaker at disease since age 5, multiple events and from then on, as for his local chaphe struggled with it, ter of the Crohn’s he has strived to fight & Colitis Founagainst IBD (inflamdation, including matory bowel disease) Tampa’s Toast for and find a cure. Gavin’s a Cure and Orinspiring story earned Gavin Shreeve with his dad and mom, Mike lando’s A Night him over 600 votes and Christina Shreeve, as they hold the letters of Hope Gala, for ‘cure’ at the Toast for a Cure 2022 event. throughout the Crohn’s and later on be& Colitis Foundation’s It Takes Guts com- came featured on local news broadcasts petition, resulting in him becoming the passionately advocating for a cure. Gavin first-ever winner of the It Takes Guts has raised over $70,000 for IBD so far Award. through his Take Steps team, Braver Than “Basically, it’s an advocacy award hon- Most. oring patients who are helping to make His resilience, dedication and selflessIBD visible. … It’s an ‘invisible’ disease ness make him an exceptional advocate in that it can be scary for people to talk for the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. With about. Nobody wants to talk about it,” all his passion and efforts in raising awaresaid Christina Shreeve, Gavin’s mom. “So, ness and funds for pediatric IBD patients, [the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s] catch- it’s little wonder that Gavin had received phrase is like, ‘Let’s make IBD visible,’ and so many votes in the competition. so the advocacy award is for patients who “He was excited. … It’s nice to know your are … helping to end the stigma of em- efforts are recognized,” said Christina. barrassment around the disease and just “So many children get diagnosed, and helping to bring awareness to the disease they’re scared. They don’t know what to and working toward finding a cure.” expect,” she added. “It’s really important IBD — which includes Crohn’s disease for other children to speak up about it and and ulcerative colitis — is a serious dis- to make this a safe thing to talk about, esease that impacts nearly one in 100 Amer- pecially when they get into their college icans. During Crohn’s & Colitis Awareness years and young adult years.” Week, the foundation invited nominations For more information, visit www.crohnfor IBD warriors, caregivers and health scolitisfoundation.org. care heroes to raise public understanding To make a donation to Gavin’s team, of IBD and honor those spreading aware- visit https://takesteps.crohnscolitisfounness. dation.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorGavin’s journey of advocacy began with drive.team&teamid=9150.
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Page 12
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR’S OFFICE FIRST IN STATE TO IMPLEMENT POCKETALK TECHNOLOGY Staff Report
Six months aftransformed custer rolling out lantomer interactions, guage translation ensuring timely devices in all its and compassionate offices, capable of service for all comtranslating speech munity members,” and text into 82 said Joe Miller, languages, HillsborPocketalk’s general ough County Tax manager of North The Pocketalk technology is able to translate Collector Nancy America. “Through speech and text into 82 languages. It also has a C. Millan received her leadership, Nancy camera that allows it to scan documents and a national award and her team exemtranslate them. recognizing her plify how technology pioneering efforts in enhancing service ac- can profoundly foster inclusivity and concessibility for non-English speakers. nectivity.” In a county of 1.5 million residents, which Since taking the helm in 2021, Millan has includes a substantial immigrant population, implemented a range of measures to cultieffective communication poses significant vate an inclusive environment that embrachurdles for non-English speakers accessing es diversity at every level. The office emdriver’s licenses, vehicle registrations and ploys more than 400 staff across its eight other vital government services. locations, 70 percent of whom represent The Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s minority populations. In January, the office Office rolled out the Pocketalk handheld will introduce a Skill-based Incentives Pay translation devices in all offices earlier this Program supporting its diverse team with year, providing real-time, two-way speech monthly stipends for language proficiency and text translation. The technology em- and certifications. powers staff to bridge language gaps, mak“Implementing Pocketalk technology diing services more accessible and smoother rectly addresses a vital community need,” for non-English speakers and reducing re- said Millan. “The technology is not a subpeat office visits. stitute for human connection, but a tool As the first tax collector in the state to to enhance it. The handheld devices foster adopt Pocketalk’s technology, Hillsborough greater connectivity between our staff and County’s successful rollout has inspired 13 Hillsborough County residents, ensuring that others across the state to implement it. language barriers do not hinder access to Recognizing her commitment to inclu- essential government services.” sion, Pocketalk awarded Millan with the For video footage of the Pocketalk devices esteemed Community Builder of the Year in action, including testimonials from Millan Award. and Hillsborough County staff, visit www. “Nancy Millan is truly deserving of our youtube.com/watch?v=pbidgyktiig. inaugural Community Builder of the Year For further information regarding serAward. As the first tax collector in Florida vices, locations and to book appointments, to implement Pocketalk devices, Nancy has visit www.hillstax.org.
Volume 19, Issue 1
OUT OF THIS WORLD HEADLINE ENTERTAINMENT COMING TO THE 2024 STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
By Kelly Wise Valdes
The Florida StrawSunday, March 3 at berry Festival an7:30 p.m. nounced its upcoming The legendary headline entertainBellamy Brothers ment artists, and perform on Monday, there is certainly March 4 at 3:30 something to please p.m., followed by the everyone. This spring iconic Southern rock marks the Strawberry band ZZ Top at 7:30 Festival’s 89th year of p.m. Christian perbringing fun, food and former Mark Lowry entertainment to the takes the stage on The 2024 Strawberry Festival is bringing community with more headline artists who will entertain audienc- Tuesday, March 5 at than 600,000 visitors 3:30 p.m., followed es for 11 days from Thursday, February 29 through Sunday, March 10. enjoying the festival’s by Grammy-winning headline entertainment, rides, youth live- Christian artist Zach Williams at 7:30 stock shows, crafts and, of course, straw- p.m. berry shortcake. The 2024 festival takes Iconic country music singer Craig Morplace for 11 days from Thursday, February gan performs on Wednesday, March 6 at 29 through Sunday, March 10. 3:30 p.m., followed by Riley Green at 7:30 According to Florida Strawberry Festival p.m. Bill Haley Jr. and the Comets will President Kyle Robinson, this year’s artists rock around the clock on Thursday, March once again encompass a variety of enter- 7 at 10:30 a.m., followed by legendary tainment from many genres. country singer Gene Watson at 3:30 p.m. “The directors on our entertainment Christian R&B performer Kirk Franklin committee worked diligently in planning rounds out the evening at 7:30 p.m. and preparing for this highly anticipated The Commodores bring their smooth announcement,” said Robinson. sounds to the stage on Friday, March 8 The 2024 entertainment lineup is as fol- at 3:30 p.m., followed by the much-anlows: On February 29, the festival kicks off ticipated ban Foreigner at 7:30 p.m. On at 10:30 a.m. with Jimmy Sturr & His Or- Saturday, March 9 at 3:30 p.m., Jo Dee chestra, followed by the doo-wop sounds of Messina performs her country hits, folthe Oak Ridge Boys at 3:30 p.m. and ending lowed by rapper Flo Rida at 7:30 p.m. The the day with the much-anticipated county festival ends with a performance from bemusic artist Oliver Anthony at 7:30 p.m. loved contemporary country music artist The Beach Boys bring their iconic surf- Cody Johnson on March 10 at 7:30 p.m. sounds on Friday, March 1 at 3:30 p.m., folAdvance tickets for admission and for lowed by country-pop singer Jordan Davis headline entertainment shows can be purat 7:30 p.m. The award-winning Black Eyed chased online at www.flstrawberryfestiPeas headline on Saturday, March 2 at 7:30 val.com, at the Amscot Main Ticket Office p.m. and country singer-songwriter Parker at 2209 W. Oak Ave. in Plant City and by McCollum brings his music to the stage on phone at 813-754-1996.
PRESIDENTIAL PREFERENCE PRIMARY This year, only the Republican Party is holding a Presidential Preference Primary in Florida.
Vote By Mail: Due by 7 p.m. March 19 Early Voting: March 4-17 Election Day: March 19
Visit VoteHillsborough.gov to make sure you are #VoteReady for the Presidential Preference Primary Election. Register to vote, update your information, request Vote By Mail and more. The deadline to register to vote or change your party affiliation for this election is February 20.
Three Ways To Vote Vote By Mail
Mark your ballot at home, then mail it back or drop it off. You can drop your ballot off at any Early Voting site or any of our offices when they are open. Request your ballot online or by calling our office. Vote By Mail ballots must be in one of our offices no later than 7 p.m. Election Day.
Vote in person at any of 27 different locations in Hillsborough
Early Voting County, open March 4-17, including weekends.
Visit VoteHillsborough.gov/EarlyVoting for locations and operating hours.
March 19, your LAST chance to vote! On Election Day, you
Election Day must vote in the polling place assigned to your precinct.
Note: Vote By Mail ballots CANNOT be dropped off at Election Day polling places.
Get answers you can trust
VoteHillsborough.gov
(813) 744-5900
Craig Latimer
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
January 2024
Page 13
2023 YEAR IN REVIEW The Tony Baroni Team wishes YOU and your family a great 2024!!!
PIE Giveway
Team Outings
Annual Pie Day! Giving away hundreds of pies to all our clients and getting to say THANK YOU in person!
Team Events like seeing the Tampa Bay Rowdies and our annual Team Advance Day learning and planning out the year followed by Race Cars and Top Golf.
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Page 14
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 19, Issue 1
WATERMELON SWIM IMPACTS
ZOOTAMPA PROVIDING EXPERT
New Year’s resolution offering swim lesis to continue to grow sons and free waits impact on the comter safety educamunity in 2024. tion presentations, CEO Micha Seal said the company gives the family-owned and back to the comoperated year-round munity through swim company hopes scholarships and to open two new lodonations to supcations in Brooksville port local causes. and Zephyrhills. “ Wa t e r m e l o n Watermelon Swim encourages children to get in“We’re beyond ex- volved in consistent swim lessons for their safety. Swim aims to cited to be growing continuously give and reaching new areas back to the communiof our community to ty. Each year we have a teach more lessons and pumpkin patch, and the further our mission. The proceeds of this pumpmore students we can kin patch help us proteach, the better we can vide scholarships for our serve our community Swimmers with Disabiland develop safer swimities program,” Seal said. mers,” Seal said. Watermelon Swim’s The new locations will annual giving tree has extend Watermelon Swim’s impact be- served the Tampa Bay community over yond the four current indoor locations in the last 10 years as well. The program Lutz, South Tampa, Wesley Chapel and provides the “entire holiday experience” Riverview. In 2023, Watermelon Swim for families in need. An application protaught over 300,000 swim lessons with cess allows Watermelon Swim to identify the help of 150 employees. families in need who would benefit from At the beginning of the year, Water- receiving holiday decorations, meals and melon Swim will offer free water babies gifts. classes for infants under 6 months old. “There’s an undeniable need for swim These classes engage parents and in- lessons and water safety education in fants in nonsubmersion lessons and offer our community. Our mission is to grow an opportunity for parents to bond with a community full of safer swimmers and their children. reduce the risks while increasing confiThese lessons lay the foundation for dence in and around water,” Seal said. future lessons at Watermelon Swim. The To enroll in swim lessons at one of company is offering a 10 percent tuition the four locations or read Watermelon discount for swimmers taking lessons Swim’s blog, visit https://watermelonmultiple times a week to “encourage con- swim.com/. For more information, consistency and repetition in swim lessons.” tact the company at 813-229-7946.
With round-theBoth Romeo and Juclock care and medliet have moved to the ical interventions in zoo’s rehabilitation place, elderly and pools and are socialoverweight manatees izing with other manRomeo and Juliet, who atees — an important arrived at ZooTampa aspect for a manaat Lowry Park last tee in human care to week, are gradually thrive. acclimating to their “As two of the oldnew environments. est living manatees, “It’s going to be a Romeo and Juliet delong road, but there is Romeo and Juliet, a pair of elderly man- serve the best care no facility better pre- atees relocated from the Miami Seaquar- possible as they live pared to address the ium, have been successfully transported out their final years,” urgent health needs of and are receiving state-of-the-art care at Stringfield added. ZooTampa. these manatees while For nearly three the Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation decades, ZooTampa has been entrustPartnership identifies the best option for ed in emergency situations to intervene, their long-term placements,” said Dr. Cyn- triage and save critically injured, sick thia Stringfield, manatee critical care vet- and orphaned manatees. The zoo’s Daerinarian and senior vice president of an- vid A. Straz, Jr. Manatee Critical Care imal health, conservation and education. Center has three 16,500-gallon medical While initial blood tests do not reveal care pools with controlled floors and two any major abnormalities for either Romeo manatee recovery habitats containing or Juliet, there are aspects of their overall 200,000 gallons of water combined. health that are unknown. The zoo invests nearly $1 million every “Both animals are over 65 years old,” year in manatee work. ZooTampa has Stringfield said, “At this age, we always cared for more than 500 manatees. Curhave concerns about cardiac health, rently, there are 18 manatees at ZooTawhich is difficult to evaluate in manatees mpa. due to their size.” More than 1.1 million visitors annualStringfield said it is uncommon for ly visit the zoo and are educated on the manatees, often called ‘sea cows,’ to be plight of the manatees, the importance of as heavy as Juliet who is 3,045 pounds. aquatic and marine habitat conservation Eating regularly is essential to her overall and the steps the public can take to prohealth, so the ZooTampa team provided mote manatee conservation. Visit https:// supportive care to Juliet, who had not zootampa.org/ for more information or been eating, which is common for mana- follow along on their social media @ tees after transport. ZooTampa for up-to-the-minute news.
SWIMMERS AND THE COMMUNITY CARE TO NEW MANATEE ARRIVALS, By Lily Belcher ROMEO AND JULIET Staff Report Watermelon Swim’s In addition to
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2 24
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
January 2024
Page 15
CELEBRATE LAUNCH INTO LITERACY
The Doors of The Church Are Open
By Superintendent Van Ayres Why is third grade so and resources are designed important when it comes to help teachers become to literacy? That’s the more confident and sucgrade where students cessful in their capacity to transition from ‘learning help kids learn to read. to read’ to ‘reading to Our district also utilizlearn.’ Up until third grade, es myON, which is a peryou are learning the tools sonalized digital library at to improve your reading students’ fingertips. myON including phonics, letters gives students access to and sentence structure. more than 7,000 books. After that, reading is the Titles are matched to each tool to help further your student’s interests, grade, education. and reading level. Literacy, especially in myON is also a great early childhood, is critresource to use during a ical. We celebrate and family reading night. Make 6 !YRE promote literacy every it part of your routine. Evday in Hillsborough County Public Schools. ery evening, put aside 20 or 30 minutes to However, it gets increased attention and read as a family. Use myON, or take turns focus during one week in January for Cel- reading aloud, or sitting together quietly ebrate Literacy Week. This year, Celebrate with your own book. Literacy Week falls on Monday through For younger children, our district literacy Friday, January 22-26. It’s designed to team put together a series of phonics vidraise awareness about the importance of eos called ‘Learning Letters.’ These adorreading and to inspire Florida’s students able videos are hosted by two of our amazand families to make reading part of their ing early childhood educators, and they daily lives. take each letter of the alphabet and sound Our schools do a phenomenal job of com- it out, find words that begin with that leting up with ways to make literacy fun and ter and teach your child how to write that engaging. The district’s letter. I strongly literacy team is always urge you to check working on new initiathese videos out at tives to best assist our www.hillsboroughteachers with this imschools.org/learnportant job. Our district ingletters. has begun implementRemember, Celing UFLI, which stands ebrating Literacy for University of Florida Week is January Literacy Institute. UFLI 22-26, and our focuses on two main schools are planareas: teacher developning a lot of exment and reader develciting activities to opment. The programs Celebrate Literacy!
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Page 16
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Music, Prehistoric Predators, BINGO, & More... Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com
ly-friendly event that opened on January 13. Guests can journey back in time and get up close and personal with colossal creatures who roamed the Earth approximately 2.5 million years ago, after the extinction of
The Real Music Series Returns To Busch Gardens
The Real Music Series, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s longest-running concert series, runs now through Sunday, February 25. Ranging from classic rock to pop soul to folk rock, live performances will hit the stage at the Stanleyville Theater for seamless artistic renditions of artists and bands, such as Chicago, the Eagles, Elvis Presley and more. For a limited time, guests who purchase a 2024 Busch Gardens Fun Card can unlock free access to Adventure Island through Tuesday, December 31. With all-new seasonal events and attractions, including Phoenix Rising at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay or Castaway Falls at Adventure Island, a Fun Card is the perfect way to experience the best of both Tampa Bay parks. Visit https:// buschgardens.com/tampa/events/real-music/ for show schedules and times. The Real Music Series is included with daily park admission, annual pass or Fun Cards.
the dinosaurs, and learn how they relate to species of this century. Animals not seen for centuries, like the dire wolf from the Ice Age or an allosaurus from the Mesozoic Era, come to life only at ZooTampa. After experiencing the dynamic exhibit, guests can see their modern-day descendants, including a Malayan tiger, shoe-billed stork, black bear and great horned owl. Prehistoric Predators is included with zoo admission or membership. This limited-time event provides ferocius fun for the whole family until Sunday, April 14.
Nominations Sought For HillsZooTampa At Lowry Park Goes borough County Environmental Prehistoric With Larger-than- Champion life Exhibit Hillsborough County is asking for res-
ZooTampa at Lowry Park kicks off the idents’ help in honoring those who have ‘Year of More’ with Prehistoric Preda- worked to protect the environment. tors, a limited-time, interactive, fami- Nominations are now being accepted
Volume 19, Issue 1
for Hillsborough County’s Theodore Roosevelt Hillsborough Forever Conservation Award. The honor is given annually to an individual or group who exemplifies dedication to preserving the county’s natural resources. Nominees must live or work in Hillsborough County or have lived/worked in Hillsborough County during the time of their achievements. The deadline for nominations is February 29, apply online at https://hcflgov.formstack.com/forms/ theodore_roosevelt_hillsborough_forever_conservation_award.
Kappa Delta Phi Bingo Fundraiser
T h e K a p p a K a p p a chapter of Kappa Delta Phi are hosting a bingo fundraiser at Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. on Tuesday, February 13. This will be a first-come, first-served event, so come early to secure a table for you and your friends. Bingo cards will be sold from 6:30 p.m. onward and bingo will begin promptly at 7 p.m. There will also be silent auction items available to bid on and a 50/50 drawing. Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. is located at 3632 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico.
Dementia Care-part- The Way 2 Dance Showcase Exner Support Group travaganza
Superior Residences of Brandon will be holding a monthly support group for family and friends of people living with dementia. The group will take place the second Monday of each month from 6-8 p.m. The group will be led by CherylAnn Haley, she is a Positive Approach to Care-certified coach and will share Positive Approach to Care skills that will explain some behaviors and show care partners how to support their loved ones. Please call 813-657-8587 or email tburnett@superiorbrandon.com to reser ve a space. Superior Res-
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The Way 2 Dance will be celebrating love on Sunday, February 4 with its Valentine’s Day Showcase Extravaganza. Celebrate with your friends, family and significant other as you watch performances by talented students and teachers from The Way 2 Dance at the Celebrations Venue, located at 610 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon, starting at 3 p.m. There will be a celebration afterward with Valentine’s Day-themed games, prizes, surprises and, of course, lots of dancing. There is a $15 fee for the event. Wear red, white or pink to join in on the fun.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
January 2024
Page 17
COME SEE THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG AT PLANT CITY ENTERTAINMENT
By Kathy L. Collins
Plant City Enterchoreographer and tainment (PCE) will then a director. She present The Play has worked with That Goes Wrong in several theaters in February. The Play Hillsborough CounThat Goes Wrong ty since the early is directed by Lois 1990s. Green, who has been Green said, “Over involved in comthe years, I have munity theater for been awarded a over 40 years. The number of theater play will take place awards for best acat Plant City Entertress, best choreogtainment’s delightful rapher, best directheater, located at tor, best production 101 N. Thomas St. in and now serve on historic downtown the board of PCE. I Plant City Entertainment will present the Plant City. am joined by my asShows will be farcical comedy The Play That Goes Wrong sistant director and this February. held on Friday, Febfellow board memruary 9 and 16 and Satber, Kelley Powell, who is urday, February 10 and also a longtime veteran of 17 at 8 p.m. There will the theater, having been be two Sunday matinees involved with PCE since at 2 p.m. on February 11 she was 14 years old. She and 18. Tickets are $23 worked as an entertainer for general admission in theme parks and cruise and $18 for seniors, stuships for over 20 years dents, members of Plant and has directed plays for City Entertainment and PCE, including The Raingroups of 10 or more. maker that won a Monti Theatre Award The Play That Goes Wrong premiered in 2015 for best play.” in London in 2012. The Play That Goes Green added, “I am excited that my Wrong is a farce about an amateur dra- cast and crew are made up of seasoned ma group that tries to stage a murder actors and technicians who have a long mystery but faces a series of mishaps history performing in the Tampa Bay and disasters. The actors forget their area, along with several people new to lines, lose their props and break their set PCE. As a community theater, we are while the corpse and inspector struggle always encouraging new people to lend to keep up with the chaos. The play is their talents to our productions.” a hilarious comedy of errors that mocks For more information, please visit the conventions of the whodunit genre. www.plantcityentertainment.com or Green started out as a dancer, actress, call 813-752-0728.
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Page 18
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 19, Issue 1
SCORE TAMPA LOOKS TO THE COMMUNITY RVR HORSE RESCUE FINDS NEW HOME IN LITHIA AS FOUNDER PASSES ON THE REINS FOR SMALL BUSINESS MENTORS By Libby Hopkins
By Sharon Still
SCORE is a Tampa nonin all areas.” profit organization that is The Tampa Chapter a resource partner of the presents workshops, U.S. Small Business Adseminars and webinars ministration. for the public throughout “Our chapter has about the year. 50 volunteers/mentors,” “Every month, we said Kevin Dorsey, leadhave two three-hour er of the Tampa/Hillsworkshops: Going Into borough County SCORE Business and How To Chapter. “Nationwide, Create a Great Business SCORE has more than Plan,” Dorsey said. “We 10,000 volunteers. also do the judging for We provide free small the Valrico/FishHawk business mentoring for Chamber of Commerce SCORE can help you start, grow startups and existing Businesses of the Year or successfully exit a business. small businesses. We can winners.” Small business owners who tap volunteers across the SCORE is currently receive three or more hours of U.S. who may have spelooking for mentors. mentoring report higher revenues cific backgrounds and “We need mentors with and increased growth. knowledge to best serve all different backgrounds,” our clients locally. Mr. DuPont of the Du- Dorsey said. “Current or retired small busiPont Corporation started the SCORE model ness owners are perfect. A great need we in 1953.” have currently is for digital and social media By 1964, SCORE had grown too large to marketing people, government regulations be managed, so oversight of SCORE was and compliance, bank SBA loan officers, turned over to the U.S. Small Business Ad- marketing experts, sales, CPAs and many ministration in 1964. others. The time commitment for training is “The Tampa/Hillsborough Chapter has about 15 hours over 30 days, and the ongobeen active since 1968,” Dorsey said. “Of ing mentoring requirement is around three our 50-ish volunteers, 40 percent of our to five hours per week minimum.” mentors are retired, and 60 percent are still Currently, SCORE has 1,036 requests for running businesses or working corporate mentoring and only 50 volunteers. executive positions.” “We need to increase our number of menLast year, SCORE had over 1,000 re- tors and volunteers to around 100 plus in quests for mentors in Tampa/Hillsborough the coming year,” Dorsey said. “We also County. need sponsors to gather financial support. “Approximately 65 percent of our clients We get around 35 percent of our basic anare women, 28 percent African American, nual budget from the U.S. Small Business 10 percent Hispanic and 9 percent veter- Administration.” ans,” Dorsey said. “Around 40 percent of Tto learn more about SCORE or become a our clients have not started a business yet mentor or volunteer with the program, you and need help walking through the process can visit its website at www.score.org.
It takes a special type of er,” she said, adding that the person to run an animal resmental toll is one of the reacue facility. Someone who sons that she is disconnecting is compassionate, selfless from the rescue. and possesses a huge, strong “To see what people do to heart. Those are just a few of these horses makes me angry the words that people use to and my entire life revolved describe RVR Horse Rescue around it for many years,” she founder Shawn Jayroe. said. As a child growing up on As her days winded down, a 1,000-acre ranch in Texas, Jayroe experienced someJayroe dreamed of creating thing that made her know a safe haven for abused and that all of her efforts were neglected animals where RVR Horse Rescue founder worth it. In a story chroniShawn Jayroe may be movthey would be rehabilitated ing on, but the facility will cled on her Facebook page, and find forever homes. She she tells of a Paso Fino that continue to thrive under turned that dream into reality, had been mentally and physnew leadership. founding RVR Horse Rescue ically abused and had no use nearly 15 years ago. for humans. That day, Cha“We will be their voice. No ro, a particular ornery Paso longer will they suffer abuse, Fino, stopped at the gate and neglect or hate. Dedicating our lives to sav- began grooming Jayroe as a way of saying ing theirs” became her tagline, and she lived thank you. it. “Horses know. They appreciate when huIt started as a one-woman show with the mans are kind. From her, it will forever be goal of helping the ones that did not have ingrained in me that what I’ve done with a chance. When trying to juggle caring for my life was appreciated by many horses,” 16 horses, running a hair salon and being Jayroe said. “They just have different ways present at home, Jayroe realized she needed of showing it. It was an experience I won’t help. She formed a 501(3)(c) corporation, forget.” handpicked a board of directors and the “I thank everyone supporting RVR all of RVR Horse Rescue continued blossoming these years and I promise there are great year after year, impacting countless lives. things to come,” she concluded. Now, as she retires to focus on her health There are many ways to help RVR Horse and family, she hands the reins over to fellow Rescue, such as donating, volunteering, board member Julie Dennis, who previously sponsoring a horse, adopting a horse or served as vice president and events chair for shopping the RVR Horse Rescue retail shop. the organization. RVR Rescue is a 501(3)(c) tax-deductible “It will carry on, and that makes me hap- nonprofit organization and depends entirely py,” said Jayroe. She explained that Dennis on volunteers. For further information, viswill move the rescue to Lithia and there also it the organization’s Facebook page, go to will be a fork of RVR in the Bradenton area. https://rvrhorserescue.org/ or call 813-833“RVR will always be in my heart forev- 6426.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
January 2024
Page 19
A KID’S PLACE’S DIAMOND GALA
By Libby Hopkins
A Kid’s Place’s Dialike environment until a mond Gala: A Decade of more permanent placeFostering Hope Presentment can be provided.” ed by Homes by West A Kid’s Place focuses Bay will take place on on keeping brothers and Saturday, February 17 sisters together during from 4:30-11:30 p.m. their time in foster at The Motor Enclave, care and provides qualA Kid’s Place’s Diamond Gala: A located at 6500 Motor Decade of Fostering Hope Presented ity residential care for Enclave Way in Tampa. the community’s most by Homes by West Bay will take “Our Fostering Hope place on Saturday, February 17 from vulnerable children Black Tie Gala started 4:30-11:30 p.m. at The Motor Enclave throughout the Tampa in Tampa. 10 years ago in 2013, Bay area. where we had 100 attendResidential foster care ees. This past gala in 2023, ensures that the needs we had over 450 guests,” of children are met when said A Kid’s Place commuthey cannot live with their nity relations manager Gaown family. brielle Okun. “At A Kid’s Place, not “This special night is deonly do we provide resvoted to raising funds and idential care, we create awareness for children in stability, normalcy and foster care. Guests can give children the tools expect the thrill of a lifethey need to reach their time during the cocktail full potential in a safe and hour with three luxurious loving home,” Okun said. sports cars speeding along Okun and her team at A a professional track, all while enjoying Kid’s Place are still looking for sponsors signature drinks, mouthwatering hors for their upcoming gala. d’oeuvres and an exciting silent auction. “We have the Pre-VIP Sponsorship Then our guests will make their way to a available at $20,000, Cigar Sponsor at decadent dinner, an enticing live auction $5,000, Gold Table Sponsor at $5,000, and round out the evening on the dance Silver Table Sponsor at $3,000 and Walk floor or kick up their feet in the cigar of Fame Sponsor at $500,” Okun said. lounge.” “We still also need in-kind donations for A Kid’s Place provides residential ser- live auctions and silent auctions, and volvices to children from birth to age 18 who unteers as well. Our hope for the gala is have been removed from their homes due to raise awareness of A Kid’s Place and to abuse, neglect or abandonment. raise funds for our children on campus.” “We provide a variety of services which If you’d like to learn more about A meet the social, educational, medical and Kid’s Place or attend its Diamond Gala, psychological needs of the child,” Okun you can visit its website at https://akidsaid. “Our primary focus is to keep sibling splacetb.org/. A Kid’s Place is located at groups together in a safe, stable, home- 1715 Lithia Pinecrest Road in Brandon.
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Page 20
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 19, Issue 1
Brandon/Winthrop
2024, Vol. 19, Iss. 1
COMING SOON
FEBRUARY 29-MARCH 10
Tampa Electric Dubbed Storm- graduates in Suncoast Credit Union’s 25-county service territory have the opReady By NOAA The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has recognized Tampa Electric as being StormReady, making TECO the first Florida utility to receive this prestigious designation. NOAA assessed Tampa Electric’s storm preparedness, including year-round training, written plans, facilities and communication with employees and community partners. The review also considered how the company monitors weather and how it receives and shares severe weather warnings. “The StormReady designation is not just a label; it signifies that we’re on the forefront of advanced storm planning and preparation,” said Lee Connelly, Tampa Electric’s Emergency Management manager. “Being prepared for storms — and being able to quickly recover from them — is essential to provide reliable electricity to our customers when they need it the most.”
now. The festival takes place from Thursday, February 29 to Sunday, March 10. Tickets can be purchased online at https://flstrawberryfestival. com/, at the Amscot Main Ticket Office at 2209 W. Oak Ave. in Plant City or by phone at 813-754-1996.
portunity to apply for financial support to continue their education, thanks to a $164,000 investment in scholarships by the Tampa-based credit union’s Foundation. Applications are open until Wednesday, January 31 and are available at https://educationfoundation.com/ seniorscholarships.
New Monthly Vegan Workshop For All Levels Of Interest
Clásico Chophouse And Tap- unteers. Among the precious benefits of Are you curious about embracing a room Celebrates One-year An- Taoist training is the practical way it helps plant-based lifestyle but not sure where reduce pain and improve health and vitalniversary With A Ribbon-cutting ity. Taoist Tai Chi® arts can help people to begin? Whether you’re all in or just
Great food was the theme of the one-year anniversary celebration and ribbon-cutting by the Brandon Chamber of Commerce for Clásico Chophouse and Taproom. Guests were treated to a variety of delicious dishes from Chef Davis Locke, including slow-smoked beef ribs, house-made meatballs and more. Clásico Chophouse and Taproom has a wide menu, which includes both Italian-inspired and barbecue dishes. It is located at 775 Brandon Town Center Dr. in BranSuncoast Credit Union Founda- don. For more information, visit its website at www.clasicobrandon.com or call tion Scholarship The Suncoast Credit Union Foundation 813-444-5188. is partnering with Hillsborough Education Foundation to offer six $2,000 scholar- Introductory Tai Chi Sessions ship awards to high school graduates in The Taoist Tai Chi Society of the USA is the Class of 2024. This year’s high school a nonprofit organization managed by vol-
MINUTES MATTER.
want to incorporate some changes slowly, this workshop is for you. Join others for an insightful and friendly session hosted by Vine Vegan owner Danielle Stevens. While Danielle isn’t a nutritionist, she’s someone who has successfully navigated the transition to veganism and is eager to share her experiences. Topics covered will include grocery store guidance, learning the essentials for a well-rounded vegan shopping list, quick and simple meals, exploring time-saving and tasty vegan meal ideas for your busy schedule, eating out with ease and tips on navigating restaurant menus. The workStrawberry Festival Concert shops will be held on the last Tuesday of Tickets On Sale Now every month, starting Tuesday, January Concert and admission tickets for the 30 at Vine Vegan, located at 2080 Bad89th ‘Out of This World’ Florida Straw- lands Dr. in Brandon. Sessions will start at berry Festival in Plant City are on sale 5:30 p.m. with chronic, serious or mild pain, whether physical, mental or spiritual. Taoist Tai Chi practice is also a form of meditation that has a profoundly calming effect on the nervous system and the brain. Experience Taoist Tai Chi locally with introductory sessions, starting now at Brandon Christian Church on Tuesdays from 10-11 a.m., New Hope Church on Thursdays from 7-8 p.m. and Julestarz Academy on Thursdays from 11 a.m.-12 Noon. For more information, visit https://www.taoisttaichi.org/ or call 877398-1108.
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Page 22
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 19, Issue 1
FLIGHT TO HONOR POLK MISSION 9 ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL? TIPS TO THROW A MEMORABLE PREPARING FOR DEPARTURE By Brad Stager
Flight to Honor Polk veterans have a chance to tour the nation’s capital.
Preparations for Flight to Honor Polk Mission 9 to fly local military veterans to Washington, D.C., are underway, and the call is out for participants. The series of missions, which began in 2015, have allowed veterans a chance to visit the greatest monuments in Washington, D.C., that honor the sacrifices of them and their comrades. Applications for the Tuesday, April 30 mission are now being accepted from veterans and guardians to accompany them. There is no charge for participating veterans, with priority for the flights given to those dealing with severe medical conditions first, followed by veterans who served in the Second World, Korean and Vietnam wars. Veterans are accompanied during the day by designated guardians who volunteer to serve on the missions. The guardians’ purpose is to assist their veterans with the travel and memorial sightseeing activities. If a guardian applicant is chosen to participate, a $500 donation to defray the cost of the mission will be requested. Guardians are assigned to a veteran in the order that applications are received.
The flights take off early in the morning from Lakeland Linder International Airport to arrive in the nation’s capital for a day of touring monuments like the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. The Flight to Honor Polk missions are among many activities of the Polk County Veterans Council, which has been supporting veterans since 2003. Among the events featured on their websites are opportunities to meet with VA representatives and support various veteran-related causes as well as events and ceremonies like retirement of U.S. flags. Their support of this year’s Lakeland Veterans Day Ceremony and related events brought praise from Johanah Moran, who expressed her appreciation on the organization’s Facebook page. “So glad you Honor Veterans with a parade,” she wrote. You can keep informed about Flight to Honor Polk Mission 9 and other veteran-related activities by visiting the Polk County Veterans Council website at www.polkveteranscouncil.com and its Facebook page, where you can also find links to downloadable applications for veterans and guardians.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE
SUPER BOWL PARTY
By Jennifer Hurst
Football season and all ages. If you find the tailgating parties a good team-themed that go with it may cocktail or mocktail, be winding down, but batch make it ahead there is still Super of time. This is also an Bowl LVIII to look foropportunity to show ward to in February. off a local beverage or Even if you aren’t lucky micro brew popular enough to be in Las Vein one of the teams’ gas at Allegiant Stadihome cities. If you do um on February 11, you choose to serve alcocan still throw a party hol, consider hiring to cap off another exyour favorite teenagciting football season. er to be a designated Super Bowl parties driver. bring out the best in Before the game, party food. Wings, check your TV and chili, pizza and assortstreaming or cable ed dips seem to top the Super Bowl parties are known for festive connection to make list but don’t be afraid sure all is in work-ing food and fun and may be easier to host than you think. to think outside the order. Is it time for box. Look for themed food related to the an updated television? Look for electronics home cities for the NFC and AFC champs sales leading up to the Super Bowl. (Cuban sandwiches would be ideal if the You don’t need a Pinterest worthy parBucs made our dreams come true with an ty to have a good time, but the internet appearance, for example). And don’t for- is a helpful re-source for recipes and parget dessert! Football shaped brownies or ty ideas. Add to the ambiance with party cookies, cupcakes iced in team colors and games and decorations. Try trivia related chocolate covered pretzels are all favor- to the host city or participating teams. If ites. you don’t have a favorite in the Big Game, If you are trying to stick to a resolution use both teams’ colors to decorate and to eat healthier, you can often find low cal- split the room or decorate your snack taorie and low fat versions of your favorite ble to look like a football field. game-day snacks online. If you are on a Plan to start the party no more than 90 budget, consider a pot-luck style party to minutes before kick off. This gives guests keep things low stress and low budget. just enough time to mingle and snack withFor drinks, offering canned or bottled out over doing it. Whether they are there beverages from a cooler allows your guests for the game, the leg-endary commercials to easily help themselves. There are plenty or just to socialize, having friends and famof canned and bottled options on the mar- ily to share in the fun is what truly makes ket with or without alcohol to appease the party. May your favorite team win!
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
January 2024
Page 23
Community Arts &Events START BUYING
By Kathy L. Collins, Art & Entertainment Director
A CALL TO ARTISTS HAS BEEN ISSUED FOR THE 2024 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL FINE ART SHOW A call to artists has (ages 6-17) been issued by the are oils, acrylEast Hillsborough Art ics, watercolGuild (EHAG) for the ors, graphics/ 2024 Florida Strawmixed media berry Festival Fine Art and sculptures. Show, which runs from The adult Thursday, February entry fee for 29 through Sunday, professionals March 10 at the fesis $15 and $12 tival grounds in Plant for amateurs City. and miniature This year, the show art. The entry will be presented in the for youth is $5. Neighborhood Village Artists of all ages are encouraged to apply to be There are near Gate 4. There is a part of the 2024 Florida Strawberry Festival multiple prizes Fine Art Show. very limited space, so available for artists are encouraged to apply early via adults. These include Best of Show, which mail. Entries will be accepted on a first- earns the winner $300. The Strawbercome, first-serve basis. ry Theme award (which includes entries Adult artists, both professional and which feature strawberries or reflect the amateur, as well as youth artists are en- 2024 theme of Out of the World) is $100. couraged to apply. Karen Crumley, chair of There is also prize money for first and the Fine Art Show, said, “There are over second place, as well as Business Leaders 400,000 who come through the gallery Choice and Special ‘In Honor Of,’ which net every year. We will likely have even more $50 for the artist. this year due to the new location. This is There is a Best Youth Entry award, which a great opportunity for all artists to learn is $30 and sponsored by Jarrett Scott Ford how to present their art to the public.” of Plant City. Youth first and second also Crumley added, “I really want to encour- receive prize money. All youth participants age our youngest artists, especially those will receive a participation ribbon. in high school, to apply. This will get them Early entries are accepted via mail until exposure and the experience of having Thursday, February 8. Artists should mail their art seen by the public.” their forms and fees to East Hillsborough The categories for adults, both profes- Art Guild, P.O. Box 3055, Plant City, FL sional and amateur, are oils, acrylics, wa- 33564. Complete rules and entry forms tercolors, graphics/mixed media and min- can be found at https://flstrawberryfesiature art (2D). The categories for youth tival.com/.
TAMPA THEATRE PRESENTS ITS 21ST ANNUAL WINEFEST FUNDRAISER
Tampa Theatre will celebrate over two decades of its signature fundraiser, WineFest, this March. The theme for this year’s WineFest is Grapebusters. WineFest is the organization’s biggest annual fundraiser. WineFest has raised more than $1.5 million over the past 21 years for the non-profit Tampa Theatre. WineFest, which is for those 21 years and older, will kick off on Friday, March 1 at 7 p.m. with a two-tiered wine tasting. Guests will taste dozens of boutique wines and sample fares from Tampa’s top independent restaurants. Guests will also have the opportunity to bid on premium silent auction items from area retailers, restaurants, services and attractions. Tickets for the Premium Tasting, which begins at 7 p.m. and features exclusive wines for a limited audience, are $125, or $115 for Tampa Theatre members. Tickets for the Grand Tasting, which begins at 8 p.m., are $80, or $70 for Tampa Theatre members. On Saturday, March 2, the Tampa Theatre’s historic stage is transformed so that 275 people can sit for a wine pairing from 6-10 p.m. The multicourse menu, created through a collaboration between Mise en Place and Metropolitan Ministries’ culinary and hospitality teams, will feature delectable small plates expertly paired with exquisite wines. There are a limited number of tickets left for this Saturday event.
There will be a fun live auction featuring once-in-alifetime trips, exclusive experiences and a high-stakes wine pull. Tickets for the wine pairing are $400 for individuals and $750 for a pair. While the theme may seem positively ectoplasmic, WineFest’s purpose is quite solid. It is the organization’s biggest annual fundraiser. WineFest has raised more than $1.5 million over the past 21 years for the nonprofit Theatre. Event Chair Zac Foster said, “I do not believe in UFOs, astral projections, mental telepathy, ESP, clairvoyance, spirit photography, telekinetic movement, full-trance mediums, the Loch Ness monster or the theory of Atlantis, but I do believe in the mission of Tampa Theatre, and the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man-sized amount of support this community brings to the table each year to support its artistic, educational and community programming, and the preservation of this landmark building as we look forward to celebrating its centennial in 2026.” WineFest guests are encouraged to dress as their favorite character or come in a Ghostbusters-inspired costume. You can get tickets at the box office, located at 711 N. Franklin St. in downtown Tampa, or go online at https://tampatheatre.org/winefest/.
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January 2024
Year In Review-Updates On The Top Stories From 2023 Brandon/Winthrop Edition
HELEN MULRENNAN YOUNG TURNS 100 IN FEBRUARY, HER SPIRIT LONG ENDURING
Page 24
COUNTY GRANT FUNDS HIGH 5 INC. POOL RENOVATIONS JUST IN TIME FOR SUMMER PROGRAMS
By Linda Chion
By Lily Belcher
Rather than have a now home to houses big celebration, Heland the school. Her en Mulrennan Young brother Joseph ‘Jody’ is looking forward to Mulrennan served as a nice, calm birthday president of the Greatwith her family and a er Brandon Chamber few close friends. She of Commerce, which doesn’t have any parhe helped to establish ticular plans for the in 1959. new year, but she’s Also active in comhappy to continue her munity life, Young is a crochet ministry. member of the Kiwanis “I’m not able to be Club of Greater Branon my feet or do much don, which her brother of anything, but I can Bud joined as a charsit and crochet and ter member in 1960. Helen Mulrennan Young in 2022 upon manage to bring sunShe is a long-standing shine into somebody receiving the Spirit of Kiwanis Award at Cornerstone Baptist Beef ’O’ Brady’s in Apollo Beach. else’s life, and that’s Church congregant, the joy I’m getting out of my life,” said where she is known for her crochet ministry. Young. For more than 23 years, Young has croOriginal Story Printed January 2023. cheted blankets and hats for newborn baKnown for her “gracious heart and posi- bies and afghan blankets for newly married tive spirit,” Helen Mulrennan Young is set to couples. She also crochets for many others, celebrate her 100th birthday on Monday, including cancer warriors, Tampa General February 27. Hospital patients and the Lioness Project, Young is the youngest and last surviving whose mission is to help women and chilsibling of a family whose pioneering heri- dren homeless because of domestic violence. tage in Eastern Hillsborough County is duly “My crochet ministry means everything to noted with the naming of Mulrennan Middle me because when I crochet, I concentrate School in Valrico, which opened in 2003 at on what I’m doing and not on the things that 4215 Durant Rd. I can’t do,” Young said, who suffers from adThe school sits on land that was once the vancing arthritis. “I get satisfaction knowing homestead of Joseph and May Mulrennan that what I’m making is going to bring joy and their children, Annie Mae, John, Joe, into someone else’s life.” Margaret, Bud, Frank, Tim and Helen. Her mantra through her life has been, Young, in 2006, became the last surviv- “It takes those struggles to appreciate the ing sibling with the passing of Martin ‘Bud’ good times that you have because if you had Mulrennan at age 93, a farming pioneer it good every day and you didn’t have to be with a citrus grower’s hat who managed concerned about anything, you would just the family’s 160-acre Mulrennan Groves, go along in life and take it all for granted.”
Recently, High our area and cre5 Inc. completed ate a much better two large-scale experience for all pool projects that community memenhanced swimbers that use these mers’ experiareas,” said High ence and offered 5 CEO Chuck Burthe community gess. a high-quality At High 5’s locaaquatic facility. tion off U.S. HighThe complete way 60 at 405 Resurfacing the pools will allow High 5 Inc. to rebuild of High Beverly Blvd. in better support its community and members. 5’s shallow, Brandon, all three warm-water pools will undergo teaching pool allows for the resurfacing financed by comfortable year-round the county’s grant. High 5 instruction of its littlest owns an Olympic-sized lap swimmers. In collaborapool with five diving boards tion with the Hillsborough and a diving well. Its 10County Children’s Board lane, 25-yard pool and and the generous grant teaching pool are also being that allows High 5 to offer renovated. free water safety swim lessons to the The pool resurfacing project is part of community, this pool provides the per- a three-phase improvement project to fect environment for teaching drown- update High 5’s facilities. BCI Pools is in ing prevention. The resurfacing of its charge of the renovation project. The Fort 50-meter pool provides not only better Myers-based swimming pool contractor long-term maintenance but also a qual- has 40 years of experience building pools ity competition venue. for the community. Original Story Printed February 2023. High 5 is a community recreation cenHigh 5 Inc. was awarded a grant to ter that supports education, athletics and fund the resurfacing of its three pools, community through its programs. High 5’s which are expected to be completed at value-added membership opportunities the end of April. give members special prices, early regisThe $550,000 grant was given to High tration and exclusive invitations to events, 5 by Hillsborough County at the beginning among other perks. Juniors can receive a of the 2023 annual budget cycle. membership for $40 per month, individu“It helps us to be able to teach children al memberships cost $55 per month and under the age of 3 to swim, increases the family memberships cost $75 per month. opportunity to run competitions, which Visit www.high5inc.org. Call 813-689would have a nice economic impact to 0908.
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Page 25
Year In Review-Updates On The Top Stories From 2023 Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 19, Issue 1
THE GREATER BRANDON MEALS MOFFITT AMBULATORY CENTER ON WHEELS ENRICHES THE LIVES COMING TO SOUTH HILLSBOROUGH By Brian Bokor OF HOMEBOUND RESIDENTS The Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels continues to serve over 200, though the number slightly dipped sometime in 2023. Additionally, the organization has a new president, Dave MacEwen, and in the position of vice president now is Janet Holtzman, who is also the organization’s chaplain. For those looking to volunteer, most of its member churches are usually in need of drivers to deliver meals. To check for which local churches need volunteers or for other volunteer opportunities with the Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels, call general coordinator Carol Shick at 813404-1973. Original Story Printed March 2023. If you or someone you know is homebound and unable to prepare a home-cooked meal, then Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels may be able to help. The person in need can be of any age, and the circumstance of their need can be temporary or permanent. The Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels helps those in need who live in a territory covering the Brandon, Seffner and Valrico area (east to Dover Road, west to U.S. Highway 301, north to Interstate 4 and south to the Alafia River). While clients are asked to donate $2.50 per meal, no one is turned away due to an inability to pay. Clients can be referred to the Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels by organizations, churches, family, friends, physicians or neighbors. Clients are screened in their home to verify eligibility.
By Kathy L. Collins
A daily meal is prepared by volunteers and delivered Monday through Friday between 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The meal includes a main course (chicken, beef, fish, pork, etc.), starch, vegetable, salad, bread and dessert. Meals are cooked, assembled and delivered by volunteer members and friends of 17 participating area churches. Currently, the Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels serves over 200 medically needy, homebound residents. For many of these residents, the daily visit from the Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels volunteer is the only human contact they receive that day. The services provided are intended to increase intake of nutritious food, improve their personal outlook and health and decrease the feeling of isolation and loneliness. Carol Shick, general coordinator for the Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels, said, “We are a completely volunteer organization and solely funded by donations. We love serving the community and our clients.” Shick said, “Many churches will prepare special holiday foods, and some give holiday favors. At Christmas, each client receives a bag or box with small treats, books and toiletries. We deliver every holiday except Christmas.” The Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels is a 100 percent volunteer-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. It operates completely from donations. The organization has been serving the community since 1976. Visit www.brandonmealsonwheels.com.
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. A detailed overview of Moffitt Cancer Center’s new facility in Ruskin. The radiology department will have four CTs, Construction of the Moffitt Cancer Center’s new Ruskin facility is progress- four MRIs, two mammography machines, ing well. It is on track to be completed one DEXA machine to measure bone density in December this year, and all project as- and one X-ray. Additionally, nuclear medical pects, including construction, operational treatment will be offered at the facility with readiness and IT, are also on track. The a nuclear camera, also referred to a gamma facility is expected to welcome its first camera, available on-site. Patients are injected with a gamma-ray-emitting substance patient on January 27, 2025. that accumulates in the organ of interest, Original Story Printed April 2023. Moffitt Cancer Center has acquired 9 and a special camera records the gamma acres in Ruskin, offering access to thousands rays. It differs from a CT scan, which is usumore patients in need of cancer treatment. ally a series of X-rays taken from different The new facility will be located at the south- directions that are then assembled into a east intersection of East College Avenue and three-dimensional model of the subject in a 27th Street South in Ruskin, less than a mile computer. With locations at the University of South from Interstate 75. Moffitt plans to build a 75,000-square- Florida, Wesley Chapel, International Plaza foot facility, with construction starting in and Fowler Avenue, a presence in Southearly 2023 and to be completed by late eastern Hillsborough County will allow lo2024. The 2-story facility will employ cut- cal residents the care provided by Moffitt ting-edge technology that covers the gam- without the hassle associated with the trip ut of cancer treatment options, including to other campuses, as some patients require screening and diagnostics, radiation oncolo- daily treatment. Moffitt is also developing 775 acres in gy, biopsies, medical oncology, infusion, clinical trials and a pharmacy. Moffitt is expect- Pasco County, the largest expansion in the ing to serve nearly 9,000 patients by year cancer center’s history. The multiyear, multiphase project will include about 16 million four and create 150 jobs by year five. Included in the new building will be 16 square feet of research lab, general office clinical examination rooms, 20 infusion bays and clinical building space. For information, reach Steve Blanchard,, (four private) and 10 blood draw labs. The radiation oncology department will offer at steve.blanchard@moffitt.org.
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to build such a fund, but if you make it a priority and contribute regular amounts each month, you can make good progress. • Avoid emotional decisions. Too many people overreact to events in the financial markets because they let their emotions get the better of them. If the market is temporarily down, it doesn’t mean you need to sell investments to “cut your losses” — especially if these investments still have good fundamentals and are still appropriate for your portfolio. It can be hard to ignore market volatility, but you’ll be better off if you focus on the long term and continue following an investment strategy that’s designed to meet your needs. • Review your goals. Over time, your goals may have changed. For example, while you once might have wanted to retire early, and planned for it, you may now find that you’d like to work a few more years. If that’s the case, you may also need to adjust your financial and investment strategies. • Revisit your estate plans. If you’ve married, divorced, remarried or added children to your family within the past few years, you may need to review the account titling and beneficiary designations on your 401(k) and other retirement assets, along with your estate-planning documents, such as your will or living trust. You might also need to revise these documents in other ways. Of course, you may not be able to tackle all these resolutions at one time, but if you can work at them throughout the year, you can potentially brighten your financial outlook in 2024 — and beyond. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Article 16 – Jan. 1, 2024
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Now that we’ve reached 2024, you might be thinking about your goals and hopes for the new year. But in addition to whatever personal resolutions you might make — volunteering, going to the gym more, learning a new language and others — why not make some financial resolutions, too? Here are a few to consider: • Boost your retirement savings. If you can afford it, try to increase your contributions to your IRA and 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored retirement plan. The more you put away in these accounts, the greater your chances of reaching your retirement goals. At a minimum, contribute enough to your 401(k) to earn your employer’s match, if one is offered. And whenever your salary goes up, consider raising the amount you put in to your 401(k). • Reduce your debts. It’s not always easy to reduce your debts — but it’s worth the effort. The lower your debt load, the greater your monthly cash flow. So, look for ways to consolidate debts or find other, possibly more productive, ways of using credit. And if you truly can’t afford something that’s nonessential, don’t go into debt for it. “Live within your means” is an old piece of advice, but it’s just as valid now as ever. • Build an emergency fund. If you suddenly needed a major home or car repair, or received a large medical bill not fully covered by insurance, would you have the funds available? If not, you might be forced to dip into your retirement accounts or other long-term investments. To avoid this possibility, try to build an emergency fund containing several months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid, low-risk account that’s separate from the ones you use to meet your daily expenses. It can take a while
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January 2024
Year In Review-Updates On The Top Stories From 2023 Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Page 26
SELMON ENHANCEMENTS ADD LEMONADE STAND REACHES NEARLY $90,000 IN DONATIONS FOR RAMPS AND LANE ANIMALS IN NEED
By Brian Bokor
THEA comthere are still pleted the conopportunities to struction of improve the exthe two new pressway. slip ramps on One of Slater’s the reversgoals is to create ible express a balance of uslanes. Since the age between the ramps’ openupper and lower ing, THEA has lanes as well as Photo courtesy of the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway also observed reduce congestion Authority (THEA). reduced confor morning westgestion between U.S. 301 and 78th bound commuters. A major component will Street. It is now conducting a Project be the installation of two new ‘slip’ ramps Development and Environment study to on the Selmon that are now under conevaluate capacity improvements along struction, one near I-75 with the second the eastern section of the Selmon Ex- near the I-4 connector. Additionally, alterpressway. native routes will be open near the Twiggs Roadway and ramp improvements Street off-ramp at Nebraska Avenue, makwill be evaluated to address safety, ef- ing for easier access through downtown. ficiency and capacity needs through Slater is also working closely with the 2045. It is anticipated that the im- Florida Department of Transportation in provements will primarily be within the solving the backup at I-4, although that existing right-of-way. A public hearing project is not under THEA authority. to present the results of the study will Slip ramps are on and off-ramps between take place in March 2024. the Selmon Expressway’s lower local lanes Original Story Printed April 2023. and upper reversible express lanes (REL). Traffic issues have become a common The new East Selmon slip ramps will allow occurrence around parts of Hillsborough drivers westbound to enter the upper-level County. Greg Slater, CEO and director of REL near I-75, and then exit near IKEA. The the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Au- addition of the ramps will reduce morning thority (THEA), is fully aware of this, as congestion on the westbound Selmon Exthe view from his office on Twiggs Street pressway near I-75, along with helping to in downtown Tampa overlooks the back- avoid congestion near the I-4 connector up of cars that represents the Selmon and reduce backup at the Twiggs Street Expressway’s elevated express-lanes exit exit ramp. Slater expects the ramps to be ramp during morning commutes east from operational by the end of the summer. Brandon. For more information, Sue Chrzan, Slater joined THEA last February and THEA’s director of communications and brings with him over 20 years of experi- public affairs, can be reached at www. ence in public service, most recently as tampa-xway.com. THEA is located at 1104 secretary of the Maryland Department of E. Twiggs St. in Tampa. Call THEA at 813Transportation, and sees first-hand where 272-6740.
By Ava Benedict
Delanie Denwould never have nis’ mother, Julie guessed that it Dennis, is proud would grow this to say that Delamuch.” nie has reached Delanie was just over $100,000 7 years old when in donations this she was inspired month. They are by the famous making plans to American Society celebrate this for the Prevenimpressive miletion of Cruelty to stone, and DelaAnimals (ASPCA) nie hopes to reach commercials and Delanie Dennis was featured on Good Morning $150,000 by the Alex’s Lemonade America in March this year. end of 2024. Stand for ChildShe’s also lookhood Cancer. She ing to do more fundraisers devised the idea of a lemonade and help animals in other stand to help both animals and ways. Her family has moved the community. Her amazing with their rescue animals work for these organizations to Lithia, where they have has received national recogni10-and-a-half acres. They tion, with her lemonade stand assist with running RVR having been featured on Good Horse Rescue on their premises and Morning America in March this year. plan to host events for animals and resSome of her favorite parts of the expericues there. ence were seeing the paperwork the night Original Story Printed August 2023. before and meeting Jennifer Aniston. DelaAt only 11 years old, local resident Dela- nie also became the recipient of the 2022 nie Dennis has raised almost $90,000 for ASPCA Kid of the Year Award for her genlocal pet charities — one cup of delicious erosity towards animal organizations. This lemonade at a time. Delanie has been serv- year, she is set to receive the Youth Hero ing her homemade lemonade at her family’s Good Deed Award from the American Lerestaurant, Cafe Delanie, since April 2019. gion Auxiliary. Her contributions toward To raise funds for local animal shelters and animal shelters and rescues have concharities, the cafe features new specials tinued to gain attention, with CBS News, daily and weekly. From buffalo chicken sal- ABC Action News and Southern Living all ad to stuffed cheeseburgers, these tasty highlighting her commitment to helping meals paired with lemonade have changed animals in need. the lives of both animals and humans alike. To learn more, visit its Facebook page “I can’t believe it,” said Andy Dennis, Del- at www.facebook.com/delanieslemonanie’s father and owner of Cafe Delanie. “I adestand.
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Page 27
Year In Review-Updates On The Top Stories From 2023 Brandon/Winthrop Edition
By Linda Chion
FLORIDA BOARD OF GOVERNORS APPROVES USF’S PLAN FOR A NEW ON-CAMPUS STADIUM
Herrin said HCFR Fire Chief Dennis Jones for years has pushed to increase the station count in Hillsborough to keep up with its growth. According to U.S. census data for 2010 to 2020, Hillsborough, behind Orange, is the second fastest-growing county in the state and ranks 14th among counties nationwide. Hillsborough’s 230,536 resident increase brought its population to 1.46 million people. Ribbon-cuttings on January 3 and 4, respectively, were held in Brandon and for HCFR Station 29 in Apollo Beach, located at 6720 N. U.S. Hwy. 41, which is a replacement station and outfitted to respond to emergencies by land and sea. Both stations sport state-of-the-art safety features, including isolated sleeping quarters, individualized alarms and a firefighter decontamination area for first responders. Brandon’s station is the first new station completed since the most recent update of HCFR’s capital facilities master plan, approved in 2019. Updated regularly to address the changing needs of growing communities, the plan calls for 24 additional fire stations. The Brandon station houses an advanced life support fire engine and rescue ambulance. Six firefighters per shift are set to operate from the station 24 hours per day, seven days a week.
The initial renty community and derings are conbroader Tampa Bay ceptual and will region as it hosts USF evolve as the defootball and women’s sign process conlacrosse, as well as tinues and more concerts and other detailed design events. The stadium elements are finalwill provide an opized. Along with portunity to enhance With the approval of the the images, USF recampus culture, serve leased several new Florida Board of Governors, the University as a powerful recruiting of South Florida Bulls are getting financing details about the tool and raise USF’s overfor a new stadium. stadium, including: all profile. An east-west build to help maximize “Bulls Nation deserves to have a stadium shade for daytime events. on USF’s campus. Our time has come. Our A dedicated section for students in the 50,000 students, our alumni, faculty, staff west end of the stadium that includes a and our greater community all deserve the design unique to USF featuring bull horns benefits that come with a stadium on our and amenities that will cater to the stu- campus,” Weatherford said. “The stadium dent experience. will be a rallying point that brings people An open concourse around a majority together and helps connect and inspire genof the stadium that provides views of the erations of Bulls fans far and wide.” field, even as fans are walking to concesThe proposal approved by the BOG is for sion or restroom areas. a stadium estimated to cost approximately A large tailgating space on the north $340 million. The USF Financing Corp. will side of the stadium. issue a debt of up to $200 million that the A variety of premium seating options, university will repay from several sources, including suites, loge boxes and club ar- including operating revenues from the staeas. dium and other revenues generated by USF Original Story Printed October 2023. Athletics. USF has also identified the other On September 8, the Florida Board of Gov- funding sources on the project, including ernors (BOG) voted in favor of the financing capital gifts ($50 million, of which nearly plan for the University of South Florida’s $40 million is already raised); the Capital (USF) new on-campus stadium, signaling Improvement Trust Fund ($31 million); constate-level support for the transformational tingent cash contribution from the sale of facility scheduled to open in fall 2026. educational broadband service licenses ($25 USF Board of Trustees Chair Will Weath- million); auxiliary expenditures ($15 million); erford and USF President Rhea Law pre- auxiliary funds ($11.5 million); and proceeds sented the BOG with their vision for a from a 2017 Federal Communications Com35,000-seat stadium by detailing how the mission auction ($8 million). For more inforproject will positively impact the universi- mation, visit www.usf.edu/stadium.
MUCH-NEEDED BRANDON FIRE STATION CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING AND STATE-OF-THE-ART FEATURES Hillsborough County Fire Rescue’s (HCFR) Capital Facilities Master Plan of constructing 24 additional fire stations is proceeding under new Fire Chief Jason Dougherty. Station 47 has been fully funded, but its building has not yet been constructed. According to HCFR spokesperson Rob Herrin, the station will be located off U.S. 301, north of Sun City Center Boulevard and south of Paseo Al Mar Boulevard. The groundbreaking date for Station 47 is to be decided. Until completion, Engine 47 is operating out of Station 17, and Rescue 47 is operating out of Station 28. Original Story Printed January 2023. Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Station 45, located at 1209 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon, was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting in January. “With the density of Brandon, the need for the station was overwhelming,” said Rob Herrin, spokesperson for Hillsborough County Fire Rescue (HCFR), who for many of his 17 years as a first responder worked at Station 11 in Brandon. So great was the need, Herrin said, Station 45 first responders and equipment were housed in temporary shelter during construction and the station’s engine today ranks among the top five in call volume countywide. According to Herrin, HCFR eclipsed 139,000 calls last year, a 23.1 percent increase over the previous five years.
Volume 19, Issue 1
Staff Report
Page 28
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
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Volume 19, Issue 1
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