Osprey Observer Brandon/Winthrop June 2024

ROTARY CLUB OF BRANDON GIVES BACK WITH NINE CHARITY CHECKS

By Linda Chion

Nine charities received checks from the Rotary Club of Brandon thanks to money raised during the club’s two signature fundraisers, its historic Wild Game Night in February and its golf tournament a month earlier.

At the club’s June 11 meeting, checks amounting to $111,538 were distributed to High 5 Inc. ($21,129), the Emergency Care Help Organization ($17,287) and Rotary’s Camp Florida ($14,406). Both Hope for Her and the Outreach Clinic received $13,445. Receiving $5,000 checks were the Angel Foundation FL and the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council, Boy Scouts of America.

Representatives from the nonprofits were on hand to receive their checks. Rotarians set aside $5,500 for the Guatemala Aid Fund and $16,326 for the Brandon Rotary Club Charity Scholarship Fund. Eight graduating high school seniors were to receive scholarship checks at the club’s June 18 meeting.

According to ofcials, since its founding in 1961 the club has donated more than $3 million to area charities.

“That’s the impact we’re having on the community, to be able to give back not just $1,000 but sometimes as much as $20,000 to an organization,” said club President Patrick W. Skidmore II. Giving back a sizeable sum “can really change an organization, and to me that’s the key, to be able to make an

impact right here in Brandon.”

Giving out checks “is the highlight of the year,” said past President Todd Owen, who noted that last year, with three fundraisers, the club wrote charity checks amounting to roughly $135,000.

“We’re a club that’s giving, and we keep giving, and that’s why we have our fundraisers,” President-elect Tim Ryan said. He added that Rotarians participate in four of five service projects annually, including Backpack Heroes and bringing lunch to the teachers at Kingswood Elementary School, which sits across the street from the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center.

Club members in 2017, after meeting for nearly six decades in various locations, opened a space of their own after raising $290,000 to purchase and convert the unoccupied home into a clubhouse at 3007 S. Kings Ave. Cash and in-kind donations included construction services, materials and labor at minimal or no cost, as well as $50,000 each from Roger and Kimberly Rivard and from the Simmons Family Foundation, on behalf of Rotarian George Simmons, who died in 2018.

The club meets on Tuesdays at 12 Noon at the clubhouse, which is available for event rentals, including for conferences, parties and club meetings.

For more, visit the website www.brandonrotary.org or call 813-767-5803.

Drew Overlee, 64, is grateful to be alive due to the eforts of a good Samaritan, first responders and the cardiac care team at HCA Florida Brandon Hospital.

On May 24, five months after sufering a heart attack while running, Overlee met the good Samaritan who performed CPR to save his life. Community members gathered for the reunion, which took place outside of the ambulance entry of Brandon Hospital.

JOGGING HEART ATTACK SURVIVOR REUNITED

WITH CPR HEROES

Overlee was running along Bloomingdale Avenue on December 22, 2023, when he dropped to the ground and went into cardiac arrest. Bystanders at a local business saw him collapse and united to help. Overlee had stopped breathing and had no pulse. 911 was called and Jake O’Brien, 27, began CPR. O’Brien had learned CPR in a college class a few years prior and was stopped at a nearby gas station when he saw people surroundign the jogger. He performed chest compressions until first responders arrived.

By Jane Owen

Brandon Hospital as the first recipient of the newly created Lifesaver’s Award.

“I am so grateful to everyone who helped save my life, but especially Jake, who was the first to respond,” Overlee said.

In a medical emergency, immediate CPR can make a critical difference in survival.

“It took six minutes for fire rescue to arrive on scene. So that means that Jake did CPR on Drew for six minutes,” Porter said. “When you start CPR, it allows us the minutes we need to arrive in time and to continue that lifesaving measure.”

O’Brien said it is incredible to see Overlee energetic and doing so much better.

“The result of the situation is happy. I want more people to learn CPR. I was at the right place at the right time, and I had the right knowledge. I knew how to help,” O’Brien said.

Paramedic Lt. Tobi Porter was close by with an ambulance and took over lifesaving eforts. Captain Brandon Yates and firefighters from Engine 7 arrived on-site shortly thereafter.

Overlee arrived at Brandon Hospital unconscious and as a John Doe. His identity was not known until he was fingerprinted. Just a few days after his heart attack, he celebrated his 64th birthday at the hospital with Yates and Porter.

At the May reunion, O’Brien and Porter were recognized for their heroic eforts. Porter received a surprise honor from

The American Red Cross and the American Heart Association (AHA) are two of the most well-known organizations that provide CPR and first-aid certification. For more information, visit www.redcross.org/ local/florida/take-a-class/cpr and www. heart.org/en/afliates/florida. HCA Florida Brandon Hospital is located at 119 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

Te Tampa Bay Rodeo & Family Festival, presented by Bartow Ford, charges into the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds on Friday and Saturday, July 19 and 20. New competitors, new livestock and thrilling action throughout. See page 22 for full story.

Drew Overlee hugging good Samaritan Jake O’Brien after thanking him for performing lifesaving CPR.

Rotarians and charity representatives with their charity checks received at the Rotary Club of Brandon’s June 11 meeting at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center on Kings Avenue in Brandon.

Proud Supporters of ECHO * Board of Directors

THE BRANDON HISTORICAL AND PRESERVATION SOCIETY MAKES ITS DEBUT

On May 19, the Brandon Historical and Preservation Society held its first meeting at the GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s Club. The purpose of this meeting was to bring together like-minded community members who have an interest in the history and preservation of the Brandon community.

“This must be a community organization with diversity,” said society member Karen McGinnis. “When I decided to dedicate myself to spearheading this initiative, I thought to myself that we first must come together as a community, brainstorm and begin to develop a plan of action for a mission, and I needed to know if there would be interest from the community to do this venture.”

The responses McGinnis received were much more than she expected.

“With the Moseley Homestead just next door to us on Limona; all the rich, forgotten history right here; and the amount of people showing interest in participating, it just makes sense,” McGinnis said. “There is something about history and nostalgia that causes us humans to have a feeling of happiness, warmth, wholesomeness and peace. It’s something nontangible, a nostalgic feeling words sometimes cannot describe to be able to just go back, even in our minds and

By Libby Hopkins

memory, to times when things were much diferent.”

There are many people in the Brandon community who are natives and are very interested in coming together to continue on with the legacy. “There are also many people who are just good stewards of history in general, some calling Brandon home and some not, that just want to make a diference,” McGinnis said. “There are many things that we can do as a community and work together to recognize our heritage, preserve what we have left and contribute to the community by working with other local programs and initiatives. This is why we had the first meeting, to see what the community wants. At large, it just brings us together for the good of Brandon history.”

McGinnis hopes more people will want to become members of this new organization.

“It is definitely in its infancy,” McGinnis said. “Everyone is welcome, Brandon native or not, with history to share. Ideas about historic preservation? Willingness to volunteer and advocate? If you are interested in helping in any way as we brainstorm and develop the Brandon Historical and Preservation Society, we invite you to participate.”

To become a member of this new organization, please contact McGinnis at 813-7705976 or via email at bhaps@yahoo.com.

ELECTRIC SCHOOL BUSES SET TO JOIN HILLSBOROUGH SCHOOL DISTRICT’S FLEET

Hillsborough school ofcials have given the goahead to purchase 20 electric school buses months after learning that Hillsborough had been awarded $7.9 million in federal funding for clean school buses and infrastructure.

In discussing the grant receipt at the January 9 school board meeting, Superintendent Van Ayres heralded the grant money for zero-emission vehicles through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean School Bus Program grants competition.

“We are appreciative of the hard work of our grants and transportation teams, who were instrumental in distinguishing Hillsborough County Public Schools through the acquisition of these funds,” Ayres said in remarks before the meeting.

“We look forward to preparing a plan that will address our infrastructure needs as we enhance our transportation system.”

Now in Hillsborough, it was announced at the school board meeting on May 7 that school board members had agreed to purchase 20 electric school buses, including nine each from Thomas Built Buses Inc. and Blue Bird Corporation and two from Integrated Coach Corporation. The three companies were on a preapproved list provided by the Florida Department of Education.

According to school ofcials, the

By Linda Chion

77-passenger buses are to serve specific inner-city routes to the school district’s underserved communities. The buses are expected to be operational in early 2025, giving time for necessary training and infrastructure needs, such as charging stations.

As for costs and savings for the 202425 school year, that would be an outlay of $8.4 million, with a projected cost savings of more than $4 million in reduced maintenance costs and fuel savings, according to Hillsborough school ofcials.

With funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA’s Clean School Bus Program provides $5 billion over five fiscal years, 2022 to 2026, to replace existing school buses with zero-emission and clean school buses.

According to a May 29 report from the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy, “354 electric buses (and 3,400 nationwide) will be rolling into the southeast, providing $114 million in savings to their local school districts.” Moreover, “to date, the program has funded almost $3 billion nationally and 1,392 in [the southeast] region.”

Hillsborough’s 2023 grant application was titled “Schools Are Too Cool for Fuel: Pilot for EV Buses and Infrastructure.” For more on EPA’s Clean School Bus Program, visit www.epa. gov/cleanschoolbus.

Hillsborough County Schools recently was awarded funding to purchase 20 electric school buses.

Stowers, a historic Brandon homestead.

A photo of the Scogin Oak.

SECOND-GENERATION MEMBERS GIVE TESTAMENT TO BRANDON ROTARY CLUB’S LEGACY

By Linda Chion

Well into its sixth decade, the Rotary Club of Brandon celebrates its growing base of legacy and family members, who give life and meaning to the Rotary International motto, “Service above self.”

Count among them past President Pat Skidmore and his son, Patrick W. Skidmore II, the club’s outgoing president. Skidmore and his son represent the first parent and child to hold the president position for the Brandon club.

Never was it a question for the younger Skidmore whether he would be a Rotarian or not, as it seemed to be the natural order of things since both his namesake father and the man who arranged for his adoption were members of the Rotary Club of Brandon.

“I kind of always thought I would follow in my dad’s footsteps, kind of do it in his honor a little bit, too,” Skidmore II said. “There’s never been a year that I’ve not been around Rotary. In fact, B. Lee Elam, an attorney in this club, handled mine and my brother’s adoption, so I’ve really been around Rotary my whole life.”

In all, there are at least eight longtime Rotarians who in turn have welcomed their children into life as Rotarians, which gives testament to the longevity of the club itself. The Rotary Club of Brandon was ofcially chartered by the Rotary Club of Ybor City on November 11, 1961, and to date has reportedly donated more than $3 million to area charities.

In addition to the Skidmores, the club’s parent-child couplings include Roger Rivard and his son, Cade; Joe Campoamor Jr. and his son, Joe; Bob Solano and his daughter, Kimberly, and son, Brian; John Dwyer and his son, Nicholas; and Wayne Strohaker and his son, James. In addition, Ryan Burley is a Rotarian sibling, albeit his father, Mitch, is a member of the Brandon ’86 Rotary Club. Not always has it been the father who brings in the son or daughter, however. Rotarian Todd Allen said his stepbrother, Michael Owen, brought him into the Rotary Club of Brandon. In turn, Allen said he encouraged his stepfather, Joe Owen, to join the club.

Indeed, legacy is huge for the Brandon club, as well as promoting the community-minded spirit of the club to attract new members. Skidmore said it is a fitting tribute that Elam has been named the grand marshal for the Greater Brandon Fourth of July Parade. The Rotary Club of Brandon meets at 3007 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon.

FIREFIGHTERS FROM HCFR STATION NO. 7 RESCUE TRAPPED DUCKLINGS

Firefighters are one of the busiest first responders, answering more than 140,000 calls every year in Hillsborough County alone. Like most jobs, however, there is always a brief period of down time. Firefighters at Hillsborough County Fire Rescue (HCFR) Station No. 7 were having one of these periods of down time when they received a call that was diferent from what they usually receive.

By Solomon Bristow

Peggy Lawson had been driving down Bloomingdale Avenue and turning into a parking lot when she noticed multiple people surrounding something. After she got closer, she saw that a group of ducklings had fallen through the gaps of a storm drain outside of the Shrimp Boat, located on Bloomindale Avenue, and became trapped. Mike Parot, the person who discovered the ducklings, suggested that HCFR Station No. 7 might be able to help the ducklings get back to their mama. Lawson drove down to the station and walked in.

“Hi, I am a home health nurse. I have dialed 911 to save the lives of several humans, so you guys owe me a favor. I need you to

save the lives of 10 baby ducklings and a very frantic mama,” Lawson had said. After receiving permission from the fire chief, the firefighters suited up and went to the ducklings. They removed the heavy grate and entered the drain, saving the ducklings one by one. After the first duckling was pulled out of the drain by the firefighters, the nine remaining ducklings were frightened and wandered further into the pipes at the bottom of the drain. The firefighters used a hose to gently wash the ducklings back to them, then continued to retrieve the ducklings. Soon after, the firefighters pulled all the ducklings out of the storm drain and returned them to the mama duck. All the ducks were taken to a pond behind Station No. 7 and released, safe from all storm drains in the area.

Even though firefighters are primarily known for their courage that is required for their primary duties, it is important to note that they contribute much more to communities than just that.

HCFR Station No. 7 is located at 1310 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico.

Parent-sibling Rotarians (from left to right) Todd Allen and his stepfather, Joe Owen; Patrick W. Skidmore II; Joe Campoamor and his father, Joe Campoamor Jr.; and Kimberly Solano and her father, Bob Solano.

Peggy Lawson with the frefghters who came to the rescue of 10 baby ducklings.

Kerrie Hoening

813-625-1527

khoening@ospreyobserver.com

BRANDON & WINTHROP ADVERTISING

Melody Gershkoff

813-300-5152

mgershkoff@ospreyobserver.com

HCPS HOSTS

PROGRAM

‘SUMMER FOOD SERVICE

FOR CHILDREN’; YMCA LOCATIONS OFFER FREE PICKUP

Leaders with Hillsborough County Public Schools understand the importance of ensuring our students have access to nutritious meals while on summer break. Serving now and continuing through Thursday, July 25, students will have several opportunities to receive free meals as Hillsborough County Public Schools hosts its annual ‘Summer Food Service Program for Children.’

813-833-7470 mhartmann@ospreyobserver.com

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN

(never known to fail)

O Most beautiful fowers of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me here you are my mother. O Holy Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succeed me in my necessity (make request). Tere are none that can withstand your power. O Mary conceived without sin pray for us who have recourse to thee (three times). Holy Mary I place this cause in your hands (three times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish and it will be granted to you. T.O.C.M.B.

The program o f ers students breakfast and lunch for free at schools that provide summer learning programs. All children, 18 years and younger, can arrive at an open school or feeding site from Monday through Thursday — the breakfast and lunch mealtimes will be posted on the front o f ce window. The children do not have to be enrolled in a summer learning program to take advantage of the free meals.

“Many students rely on our schools for access to nutritious breakfast and lunch meals during the school year and that

need continues throughout the summer months. These well-balanced meals will nourish our students and eliminate food insecurity. Thank you to our dedicated Student Nutrition Services team who will feed thousands of children this summer,” said Superintendent Van Ayres. This summer, there will be 144 summer feeding sites available. This includes YMCA programs, such as YMCA Camp Cristina, the Spurlino Family Y and the North Brandon Family Y, as well as city and county parks and recreation sites. Some other area locations are: Cimino Elementary School, Bloomingdale High School, Mulrennan Middle School, Navigator Academy of Leadership, Barrington Middle School, Spoto High School, Kingswood Elementary School and McLane Middle School.

To find the complete list of summer break spot locations near you, visit www. summerbreakspot.org, call 2-1-1 or text “FOOD” or “COMIDA” to 304-304.

IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fctitious name of Come Up Higher located at 5424 Watson Road, in Hillsborough County, in the city of Riverview, Florida 33578 intends to register said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida

Dated at Valrico, Florida this 5th day of June 2024 Jenna Lewis

Students can pick up free breakfast and lunch all summer at the YMCA Camp Cristina ‘Summer Food Service Program for Children’ feeding site.

Antionette Wilson and Eugene Morgan hand out almost 250 meals per day at YMCA Camp Cristina. Hillsborough County residents are welcome to pick up free breakfast and lunch daily all summer.

NAVIGATING TENSIONS BETWEEN NEW SPOUSES AND ADULT CHILDREN

By Laurie E. Ohall, Florida Board-certifed Elder Law Attorney

Finding love again after loss or divorce is a wonderful gift. When there are kids involved, blending families can be beautiful, but this also comes with unique challenges. If there’s friction between your new spouse and your adult children, your estate planning process will require careful consideration and extra sensitivity.

has what they need while making sure certain things go to your children.

• Gifting During Your Lifetime: Consider gifting assets to your children outside of your estate plan. This can give you the satisfaction of seeing them enjoy your generosity, and potentially reduce tension.

Te Value of Professional Guidance

Understanding the Concerns

When starting the planning process, you first need to understand why there may be tension in the family. It might be lingering grief for a deceased parent, protectiveness over family heirlooms or anxieties arising from age diferences. While fixing long-standing issues is ideal, your primary focus in estate planning must be on preserving your own wishes and avoiding arguments.

Strategies for Balancing Interests

Working with an experienced lawyer will give you the best chance of creating a plan that fosters fairness and reduces the risk of conflict. Here are some potential strategies:

• Clear and Transparent Communication: Having open discussions (if possible) with all parties about your intentions for your estate can prevent surprises and promote understanding.

• Prenuptial or Postnuptial Agreements: These agreements can clearly define asset ownership and protect assets brought into the new marriage.

• Trust: Trusts can make sure your spouse

Given the intricacies of estate planning within blended families, seeking professional guidance is highly recommended. Experienced will and trust attorneys possess the expertise to navigate complex family dynamics and legal complexities efectively. By understanding your unique concerns and objectives, they can tailor a comprehensive plan that aligns with your wishes, provides for your loved ones and preserves your legacy for generations to come.

In conclusion, while blending families can present challenges, careful planning and thoughtful communication can help navigate tensions and create harmony within them. By addressing concerns openly, exploring efective strategies and seeking professional guidance, you can ensure that your estate plan reflects your values and priorities while fostering peace and understanding among your loved ones.

Laurie Ohall is a Florida board-certifed elder law attorney practicing in Brandon, Florida. She has been practicing law for 30 years and her practice is focused on estate planning, elder law planning and probate. Ohall is licensed to practice law in Florida and Ohio.

BECOME A POLL WORKER IN HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY

Free and fair elections are the hallmark of a democratic society, and poll workers are the backbones of free and fair elections. Without their tireless eforts, elections would not run as smoothly and corruption-free as they should.

If you are a resident of Hillsborough County, at least 18 years old and a registered voter, you can apply to work as a poll worker in Hillsborough County in the upcoming election. You must be able to lift 1530 pounds and work for at least a 14-hour day.

Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer said, “I want the local community to know that poll workers are crucial to our elections and our democracy. We could not conduct elections for our large county without our poll workers. If you are friendly, disciplined and want to participate in our democracy in a meaningful way, please consider becoming a poll worker.”

Latimer added, “The application is available on our website, and I encourage individuals to apply now. We are already reviewing applications and assigning positions for the upcoming primary and general election. If you apply after our ofce is fully stafed for this election cycle, you can still be considered for future election cycles.”

Poll workers undergo training, about

By Kathy L. Collins

which Latimer said, “We have earned awards for our poll worker training, and our returning poll workers have remarked on how it has improved over the years. It is very informative and prepares our poll workers well for the work they will be doing.”

Poll workers complete several hours of online training at their own pace and then schedule time to participate in in-person labs where they can practice with the equipment that we use in the polling place.

Training is available beginning one to two months before the assignment. Once a poll worker is assigned to work, they will receive more information about training from the poll worker services department. Poll workers are paid. The amount you are paid depends on your position and when you are working. For example, election day poll workers in Hillsborough County earn between $330 and $391. Tasks assigned to poll workers vary, but examples include setting up the polling place, checking voters in, handing out “I Voted” stickers, monitoring the polling location and providing voters with excellent customer service.

For more information on becoming a poll worker and for an application, visit www.votehillsborough.gov.

Craig Latimer is the Hillsborough County Supervisor of Election. His ofce has won multiple awards, including ones for training poll workers. If you are 18 years old, a resident and a registered voter in Hillsborough County, you can apply to be a poll worker for the upcoming elections.

SUMMERTIME BRINGS POOL SAFETY INTO FOCUS

Now that summer is here, Hillsborough County launched Safe Pools Day Tampa Bay, which was aimed at educating families about practicing pool safety while they enjoy swimming this summer. Florida leads the nation in drowning deaths of children 4 years old or younger, and most of the deaths are preventable.

According to Hillsborough County Code Enforcement Director Joe Goss, his staf teamed up with the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace and Plant City and the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County for Safe Pools Day Tampa Bay on May 10. Code enforcement ofcers visited condominium, subdivision, apartment complex and other common-area pools to ensure they meet safety standards, including those outlined in the Hillsborough County Code. Staf looked for appropriate fencing, signage, drain covers, sanitation and more.

Goss also shared other tips for families through the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County and gave the following tips for water safety and how to help prevent pool injuries and drownings.

First, designate a ‘water watcher’ — an adult whose only job is to watch the children in the pool. Water watchers should be rotated about every 10 minutes. In addition, ensure that alarms are installed on any doors and gates leading to an at-home pool, and have a water alarm in the pool that goes of when someone enters the pool.

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Goss also strongly encouraged parents to enroll children in swim lessons. Locally, the City of Tampa ofers swim lessons for ages 6 months and older through the American Red Cross. Many local YMCAs also ofer drowning-prevention programs.

“With summer just around the corner, it’s important to ensure that private home swimming pools are safe, secure and sanitary,” said Goss. “To prevent accidental drownings, all swimming pools, hot tubs and spas — regardless of when they were constructed — are required to have the proper fencing and safety barriers installed.”

If a pool enclosure has an access gate, it must be equipped with a self-closing and self-latching locking device.

Homeowners can reduce their safety risk and avoid a citation by checking their functional access gate to ensure it meets the local standards.

A clean swimming pool is a must as well. Pollen, leaves and other organic material can transform a backyard oasis into a murky green lagoon if not properly maintained. Residents should maintain pools and spas year-round and remove standing water pool and spa covers to prevent mosquitoes, bacteria and germs from breeding. If you witness a code violation at any swimming pool in unincorporated Hillsborough County, call code enforcement at 813274-6600. Visit www.tampaymca.org.

PLANS FOR FIRST FAMILY JULY 4TH FESTIVAL AT COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS: MUSIC,

CONTESTS, DRONES & MORE

Get ready to immerse yourself in a day of patriotic revelry as Hillsborough County Fairgrounds unveils plans for its inaugural July 4th festival, entitled Catch the Spirit & Celebrate America, presented by Odiorne Insurance. Admission is free for this community extravaganza, which promises a day packed with fantastic food, exciting activities, engaging contests and live entertainment, culminating in a breathtaking, patriotic drone show after sunset. Gates open at 1 p.m. for this family-friendly event, with parking available at $10 per vehicle.

“Hosting a July 4th festival is a natural fit for the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds,” said fair manager Suzanne Holcomb. “By expanding our roster of self-produced events, the Fairgrounds is becoming the go-to venue for family-friendly activities throughout the year.”

An array of interactive activities will fill the afternoon, including a charming pet parade and costume contest, the adorable Little Miss and Mr. Firecracker competition and watermelon-eating challenges. The Ridge Country Band takes the stage in the Entertainment Pavilion at 3 p.m.,

Staf Report

and the Eric Von Band continues the toe-tapping beats beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Young ones can have a blast petting and feeding farm animals and sliding down inflatables in the kids’ zone, while adults can unwind with a refreshing beverage at one of the beer tents. Fans can explore craft vendors, admire the antique car show and discover organizational displays throughout the day.

The evening culminates with a one-of-a-kind, patriotic drone show beginning at 9 p.m. Produced by Sky Elements Drone Shows, the leading provider of drone light shows in the U.S., this sensory-friendly spectacle features 150 drones choreographed to stirring marches and iconic American music, providing a perfect celebration for all. Catch the Spirit & Celebrate America is part of a full day of activities in the Brandon area, kicking of with the annual Fourth of July parade at 10 a.m. hosted by the Greater Brandon Action Network. The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds are located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover. Visit https://hillsboroughcountyfair.com/ for the complete schedule of events, contest applications and more information.

Water safety tips are a priority to keep families safe this summer.

A watermelon-eating contest is just one of many activities planned for the fun-flled July 4th Catch the Spirit & Celebrate America festival at the County Fairgrounds.

ARMY RECRUITING REVEALED — HOW ONE JOINS THE ARMY

Joining the military is an important milestone for anyone. There are a multitude of branches for one to choose from, but the branch that is possibly the most iconic is the United States Army. In Brandon at the Army Career Center, a division of the Tampa U.S. Army Recruiting Company, Staf Sgt. Edwin Negrin is the station commander (or supervisor).

Negrin has been in the Army for 14 years and has been a recruiter for seven and a half years.

Ofering advice for potential service members, Negrin said, “I believe that graduating from school, staying in shape and having a good support system are very important components to have in one’s life.”

So, how do you go about joining the Army? After speaking with a recruiter, one must take a test called the Armed Forces Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). This test determines your strengths and abilities in the fields of science, math and language in order to be placed in the right job. Jobs in the military are called military occupational specialties (MOS), and there are over 200 diferent opportunities.

Once a recruit has successfully completed the ASVAB and is placed in the right MOS, they must complete a physi-

By Gunnar Wagner

cal exam at a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS). When that is accomplished, finally, in order to become a soldier, or ‘trainee,’ as recruits are referred to, they must then sign a contract called the Oath of Enlistment, a vow to defend the Constitution throughout their military career.

Preparation for basic training is next. Basic training prepares trainees for the Army and is typically completed in 10 weeks. Once a soldier graduates from basic training, there are three pathways for them to choose from: full-time active duty, part-time Army Reserve and part-time Army National Guard. Additionally, there are also incentives known as enlistment bonuses that are given to qualified recruits for enlisting in the Army, completing basic training or becoming active duty. These are situation-based (e.g., one can get up to $50K if they are active duty) and enlistments range from three to six years. To learn more about enlistment and enlistment bonuses, visit www.goarmy.com.

The Army Career Center is located at 765 W. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon. Visit https://sites.google.com/view/us-army-tampa-company or its Instagram and Facebook pages at @goarmy_brandon765 and ‘U.S. Army Recruiting - Brandon,’ respectively, to learn more.

2024 UNION HOME MORTGAGE GASPARILLA

BOWL SCHEDULED FOR DECEMBER 20 AT RAYMOND JAMES STADIUM

The Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl is set to take place at Raymond James Stadium on Friday, December 20, at 3:30 p.m. Owned and operated by ESPN Events, the game will be broadcast live on ESPN and will feature two teams selected from a diverse pool, including the Southeastern Conference (SEC), Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and American Athletic Conference (AAC).

Te Gasparilla Bowl recently announced that Union Home Mortgage will be returning as the title sponsor for two more years. Te Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl is set to be played on Friday, December 20, this year.

Along with announcing the game date, the Gasparilla Bowl is proud to announce that it has extended its partnership with Union Home Mortgage as the title sponsor for another two years, making Union Home Mortgage the longest-tenured title sponsor in the bowl’s history. Union Home Mortgage strives to create a culture that demonstrates mutual respect for everyone along with a deep desire to be world-class, underscoring the bowl’s commitment to excellence, community engagement and support for collegiate athletics.

“We are thrilled to announce the new date for the 2024 Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl and to renew our partnership with Union Home Mortgage,” said Scott Glaser, executive director of the Gasparilla Bowl. “This collaboration enhances our ability to deliver a premier college football experience at Raymond James Stadium. We look forward to welcoming fans and teams for another exciting and memorable game in December.”

Union Home Mortgage, a nationally rec-

ognized mortgage banking company, has been a dedicated supporter of the Gasparilla Bowl. Their ongoing partnership plays a crucial role in enhancing the event’s outreach and impact.

“Union Home Mortgage is excited to announce the renewal of our partnership with ESPN and the Gasparilla Bowl,” stated Bill Cosgrove, CEO of Union Home Mortgage. “Our organization is committed to Tampa and all of Florida, and we are honored to partner with ESPN in this great state. Union Home Mortgage’s 1,800 partners nationwide are dedicated to building homeownership opportunities for everyone. We look forward to bringing the 2024 Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl to Tampa residents and football fans across the country.”

Georgia Tech’s 30-17 victory against the University of Central Florida last year drew a strong audience, averaging a 1.3 percent rating with more than 2.35 million people tuning in to the prime-time matchup on ESPN. The game was the top sports program during its telecast window. With the game occurring just before Christmas, local businesses and fan groups have a unique opportunity to host holiday parties or family gatherings, including pregame tailgates and stadium seating options.

Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl ticket information will be announced later this fall. Additional game information is available at www.gasparillabowl.com.

Te Army Career Center in Brandon is one of several places that prospective recruits can go to in Hillsborough County.

GFWC BRANDON SERVICE LEAGUE AWARDS TWO SCHOLARSHIPS

At its Spring Luncheon on June 8, the GFWC Brandon Service League presented two annual scholarships.

The Pat and Lee Elam Scholarship for the Renaissance Woman was presented to Dalexys Dixon. This scholarship is given to adult women who, due to life or family changes, finds herself in need of further training or education.

By Kathy L. Collins

Dalexys Dixon (in blue) received the GFWC Brandon Service League’s Pat and Lee Elam Scholarship for the Renaissance Woman and Ryleigh Butz (in orange) received the GFWC Brandon Service League’s Reynolds and Claire Bryan Scholarship, both presented by Judy Darsey, scholarship chair, at the Spring Luncheon of the league’s members on June 8.

Dixon, a resident of Brandon, is a graduate of Jeferson High School and now works as a manicurist. Dixon is enrolled in Aveda’s Full Specialist Program.

Judy Darsey, scholarship chair of the GFWC Brandon Service League, said, “Her goal is to become licensed to provide mani-pedis and massage therapy to patients in assisted living and hospice. Her passion is giving back to the community. Our Renaissance Woman Scholarship will help in paying the more than $5,000 tuition costs and the purchase of required attire and course material that is necessary to successfully complete the program.”

Dixon came with high recommendations from her lead massage educator, transitional coordinator and massage educator.

The Reynolds and Claire Bryan Scholarship is given to high school seniors. This year’s recipient was Ryleigh Butz, a graduate of Durant High School. Butz graduated with a weighted GPA of 6.2 and will attend Auburn University, where she will work to receive a B.A. degree with a goal to become a physician assistant.

Butz was ranked 10th out of 541 students in her graduating class.

Darsey said, “Her goal is to become a PA in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), a place that is very near and dear to her since she herself was a premature baby who weighed less than 3 pounds at birth. She spent two months in the NICU. Thanks to the health care team who took care of her, she now wants to be able to make a diference in the lives of others that start of as she did.”

Butz is an athlete (gymnastics, cross country and track) and has spent hundreds of hours volunteering with March of Dimes, Feeding Tampa Bay, Hillsborough County Public Schools, Lakeland Regional Medical Center and Angels in Charge.

Joanne Baxter, president of the GFWC Brandon Service League, said, “I am gratified to see these remarkable people with their many accomplishments and to know we have afected the lives of students and career women since the inception of the scholarships in 1996.”

For more information, please visit the website at https://gfwcbrandonserviceleague.org/.

ABOUT OUR CAMPS

With over 25 dif erent camp options throughout the Tampa YMCA area, there’s something for every camper to enjoy! From art and gymnastics to ziplining and splashing in our pools EVERY DAY, the Y is the ultimate summer destination. Summer Camp starts May 28th! Register at tampaymca.org/letscamp

EXPERIENCED AUTISM ALLIANCE AIMS TO PROVIDE SUPPORT THROUGH PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

Turning personal passion into a force for change, Experienced Autism Alliance strives to support families and individuals with autism.

Experienced Autism Alliance was founded in 2019 by Tanya Hines, James Hines and Amanda Grozdanic. As two parents of a child with autism and an occupational therapist, respectfully, the trio recognized a significant lack of resources for families. They aimed to leverage their experiences to provide support and assistance to families in the autism community.

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

The organization was created in order to assist, empower and support families and individuals with children and adults with autism. Experienced Autism Alliance ofers resources and educational opportunities with the goal of helping the lives of individuals with autism and their families.

One of the ways Experienced Autism Alliance has helped the community is through the SpectrumSqueeze Lemonade Stand that started in October 2023. The lemonade stand is a social program designed to provide meaningful employment opportunities and job training. It works to raise money for Experienced Autism Alliance’s programs and gives individuals with autism a chance to practice social skills and responsibility.

“I am thankful for the chance to work with SpectrumSqueeze and I’m getting

more confidence while working at the register,” said Crystal M., lemonade specialist for SpectrumSqueeze.

Key aspects of the SpectrumSqueeze program include inclusivity, job training, community engagement, self-esteem and self-confidence, sustainability and autism awareness. Families of those with autism appreciate this opportunity for their loved ones not only because it helps them practice new skills but also because of the support and encouragement that the program gives.

“I am proud of my daughter’s first job and love the support and compassion of the lemonade stand,” said Ana Vargas, board member and autism mom.

The SpectrumSqueeze can be found at Experienced Autism Alliance’s annual Inclusive Trunk or Treat and many other community events throughout the year with freshly squeezed, delicious lemonade.

Experienced Autism Alliance works yearround to provide resources, including articles and books, events, training opportunities and information on where to find more support in the community that will help families and individuals with autism with skill building and more.

For more information, please email info@autismalliancefl.org, contact 813324-5352 or visit the website for the organization at https://autismalliancefl.org/.

SCHOOL REPAIRS FUNDED WITH HALF-PENNY SALES TAX HEAT UP

Construction projects ongoing at Brandon High School took center stage at a press conference this month that addressed the approximately $101.8 million in repairs underway at more than 100 schools this summer.

That includes $84.9 million in air-conditioning repairs and replacements at 14 schools, including Brandon and East Bay highs; Burns, Jennings and Shields middle; and FishHawk Creek, Nelson, Sessums, Bryan, Heritage, Mendenhall, Roosevelt, Seminole and Shaw elementary schools.

The remaining $16.9 million is earmarked for maintenance projects and repairs that involve such things as playgrounds, track repairs, kitchen and cafeteria improvements, painting, window replacements and elevator modernizations.

“Thank goodness in 2018 our taxpayers had faith in us to give us that half-penny sales tax,” said Chris Farkas, deputy superintendent of operations. “We’re on 100 campuses this summer working our tails of The kids are coming back to school on August 12, so we need to make sure that we’re ready for the teachers on August 2.”

The work is part of a much broader undertaking, funded by the half-penny sales tax referendum approved by voters in November 2018 for a 10-year period. To date, 754 projects have been completed and 214 are in progress, with nearly $295 million awarded to local businesses, according to school ofcials. They further noted that, as of April 14, the school district had invested $742.4 million of the $834.6 million received in referendum funds.

Addressing reporters and answering

By Linda Chion

questions at the June 5 press conference were Farkas; Jeremy Klein, Brandon High School principal; and Jose Valiente, a member of the Citizen Oversight Committee that meets monthly to oversee the spending and completion of school improvement projects.

“Today, you’re seeing our summer HVAC air-conditioning project at Brandon High, which is one of our largest, accounting for more than $12 million worth of work,” Farkas said. “This is symbolic of the work that’s being done all around our district thanks to the half-penny sales tax.”

Enhancements overall have been heralded as necessary to provide students and staf with improved learning environments now and into the future. The referendum approved in 2018 reportedly raises $121-$131 million per year.

“This half a penny is very powerful,” Valiente said. “The role of the oversight committee is to make sure we follow the money. And one thing that we wanted from the very beginning is to create a separate bank account for all this money, so we can [account for] the first dollar that came in to the last dollar that’s been spent.”

On the ground at Brandon High, Klein said the ongoing HVAC work is huge. “The fact that we’ll have a constant, comfortable temperature going on is just going to make things more conducive to learning,” he said. “The more that the kids are here, the better we can teach them. The more we can teach them, the more kids walk the stage [at graduation].” This year’s graduation rate improved at Brandon to “92-plus percent.”

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Tose involved in SpectrumSqueeze get to meet new people, practice life skills and learn new things.

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS HONORED WITH SCHOLARSHIPS FROM BRANDON HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL STAFF

High School seniors from across Hillsborough County applied for six scholarships, which included five HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Healthcare Achievement Awards and the HCA Florida Brandon Hospital and Physicians Healthcare Scholars Award.

Students from about 30 public and private high schools and homeschooled students were considered, and it was a highly competitive group of candidates.

“These students will be caring for the patients of tomorrow. They value empathy and care, which aligns with HCA Florida Healthcare and our medical staf ’s commitment to excellence in patient care. It is important to support their dreams and ease their financial burden of education. It is with that goal that HCA Florida Brandon Hospital and the medical staf collaborated in sponsoring these scholarships. We look forward to welcoming them to the medical world and future partnerships with HCA,” said Dr. Anjan Shah, orthopedic surgeon at HCA Florida Brandon Hospital.

The inaugural HCA Florida Brandon Hospital and Physicians Healthcare Scholars Award was a highly competitive $20,000 scholarship, and the students were required to have plans to attend the University of South Florida to be eligible. This scholar-

honor societies and athletics. She’s a leader in many of those organizations and has committed to making a diference in the community through volunteerism.

The HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Healthcare Achievement Award was given to five students who were exceptional in both academics and extracurriculars. The students were also required to have a desire to pursue a career in healthcare. They were each awarded $1,000.

Erin Evans (Middleton High School), Devin Blunt (Strawberry Crest High School), Javier Landa Pulido (Middleton High School), Kayla Dinh (Sumner High School) and Keira Kurto (Bloomingdale High School) were all awarded the HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Healthcare Achievement Award by Brandon Hospital leadership team members at their high school award ceremonies.

The high school seniors who were awarded these scholarships have qualities that align with the values of HCA Healthcare, of which, according to its website: “Above all else, we are committed to the care and improvement of human life.”

The hospital is located at 119 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, visit www.hcafloridabrandonhospital.com.

ship was jointly funded by HCA Florida Brandon Hospital and the medical staf The scholarship winner was Middleton

High School senior Suchi Patel. Patel stood out due to her involvement in student government and various clubs,

Middleton High School senior Suchi Patel was awarded the inaugural HCA Florida Brandon Hospital and Physicians Healthcare Scholars Award.

Bloomingdale High School senior Keira Kurto was one of the recipients of the HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Healthcare Achievement Award.

Strawberry Crest High School senior Devin Blunt was one of the recipients of the HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Healthcare Achievement Award.

Sumner High School senior Kayla Dinh was one of the recipients of the HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Healthcare Achievement Award.

Middleton High School senior Erin Evans was one of the recipients of the HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Healthcare Achievement Award.

Middleton High School senior Javier Landa Pulido was one of the recipients of the HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Healthcare Achievement Award.

NEW VALRICO VOODOO BREWING CO. ENLISTS DURANT STUDENTS FOR DOOR ART PROJECT

Before Chris Ciulla selected his location for Voodoo Brewing Co. Valrico on State Road 60 in Kings Mill, he knew community involvement would be something he wanted to embrace.

Looking to foster this relationship, Ciulla approached local high schools, asking if they were interested in participating in an art contest where the created artworks would be displayed at Voodoo Valrico for the entire year. The idea was to present each student a blank door as their canvas, with the assignment being to express their visions of opportunities beyond the door through their artwork along with a written narrative of what the artwork meant to them.

By Brian Bokor

part of the Valrico community,” said Ciulla, franchise owner/operator of Voodoo Valrico, better known by locals as the large red building under construction on the north side of State Road 60 between Mulrennan and Dover roads.

A CHILDREN’S KASTLE HOSTS SPRING FLING FOR ST. JUDE’S

By Alisa Gershman

Durant High School art teacher Jaclyn Bowers immediately thought this would be a great idea, but only for students willing to put forth the time, energy and efort needed to complete the two-month project.

“The contest gave students a chance to express their dreams through painting and allowed them to explore and reflect what opportunities lay ahead,” said Bowers. “It showcased the talent of our students in the most heartfelt way possible. When the students presented their artwork and told their stories, it brought tears to my eyes. I couldn’t be prouder of what they have accomplished.”

Principal Gary Graham added he was “blown away with the talent,” reiterating that those chosen “had to be the right student with the right work ethic to complete the task.”

Out of the 210 students enrolled in Durant’s art program, below is the list of the 10 highly dedicated students across all four grades selected to participate, along with the titles of their artworks:

• Emerald Gottfredsen — “Opportunities — a self-portrait.”

• Raley Wilson — “Justice 2024.”

• Livia Mendonca — “Ocean.”

• Isabella Davila — “Dwell on Possibility.”

• Quiarra Cooper — “To the Crib.”

• Asia Gil — “Paint Your Future.”

• Madison Willoughby — “Dreams in Motion.”

• Aiden Clark — “Work to Riches.”

• Alyssas Knecht — “Cosmetology School.”

• Jackson Smith — “Remember When.” “Voodoo Brewing is our pride and joy, and we can’t contain our excitement to be

“Valrico means ‘valley of god’ or ‘rich valley,’ and after visiting over 75 properties, I stood on this one in Kings Mill and knew immediately this is where our pub belongs.”

“Our doors symbolize opportunity, inviting you to step into a brighter future,” Ciulla added. “Partnering with Durant High School and Mrs. Bowers to engage and empower students to express their visions through art on these doors creates a meaningful connection between our restaurant and the local community. We are incredibly grateful for the chance to collaborate with such talented young artists.”

Each one of the doors, along with the stories behind them, will be on display at Voodoo Valrico for an entire year and available to purchase at the one-year anniversary celebration, with all proceeds going back to the Durant art department.

The contest will be repeated again next year with a new group of talented young Durant High artists displaying their skills and keeping the collaboration going between community and business.

Prizes awarded include $1,500 for first place, $500 for second place and a gift certificate for dinner-for-four given to the third-place winner. The three winning contestants will be announced at Voodoo Valrico’s grand opening celebration, which both Ciulla and his general manager, Mandi Hand, anticipate happening before the end of this summer.

For a preview of all doors entered into the contest along with information on the opening date, please follow Voodoo Brewing Co. Valrico Facebook page at www. facebook.com/voodoovalrico.

Voodoo Brewing Co. Valrico is located at 3434 SR 60 in Valrico. More on Voodoo Brewing can be found on its website at www.voodoobrewery.com. Ciulla is also the founder of WeCulture Brands as well as the author of the book by the same name.

At A Children’s Kastle, the focus is always on the children. No matter if it is educating them or providing a safe space to learn and grow, things are no diferent once the Spring Fling fundraiser comes around.

Every year, the family-owned and operated faith-based school holds a Spring Fling and Trike-a-thon event to raise money for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. This year, the school raised over $4,000 for the charity.

Jef Liebler and his sister, Jackie Liebler, own and operate the location together, creating a warm, welcoming space that parents love to send their kids to each day.

This passion for the school and fundraising started back in their childhood, as both grew up attending A Children’s Kastles in Bufalo, New York, and proceeded to open their own locations once they came to Florida.

The initial goal for the once-a-year, charity-only fundraiser was to ensure parents were not overburdened by incessant, assorted fundraisers throughout the year.

Rather, Jef said, “our school will only do one fundraiser each year for equipment and improvements around the holidays, … and we wanted to select a charity to raise money for with one fundraising

event each spring.”

The school has raised an amazing $60,000plus in the past 10 years for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. The charity was chosen because its goals for helping and supporting children aligned with the goals of A Children’s Kastle and would work to make its communities a better place.

The event itself is a great time for kids and parents to have fun while supporting a good cause.

“During our Trike-a-thon, students are able to raise money for doing laps in our bike course or by making a monetary donation of their choice. Families and friends help sponsor students through the St. Jude website and then all of the proceeds go directly to St. Jude’s,” said Jef

He also said that the fundraiser is used to educate and promote bike safety among the kids, such as learning safe riding habits like wearing a helmet and looking both ways before crossing the road.

A Children’s Kastle has taken strides toward a better future through its fundraiser and plans on continuing the event to benefit its community.

A Children’s Kastle is located at 11297 Winthrop Main St. in Riverview. For more information, visit https://achildrenskastle.com/ or call 813-654-9400.

Kids and parents enjoy fun activities such as games and bounce houses at A Children’s Kastle’s Spring Fling fundraiser.

Te Durant High School art class’ participating contestants with art teacher Jaclyn Bowers (right).

Durant High School art teacher Jaclyn Bowers with Chris Ciulla of Voodoo Brewing Co.

Emerald Gottfredsen with her door, titled “Opportunities — a self-portrait.”

This is no secret. They don’t work for you, they work for the builder! They are not representing you, they are representing the Builder. So that’s a major problem guys!

You want to be represented by a professional who will make sure deadlines are met and have your best interests in mind! At the Tony Baroni Team, we deal with all of the builders and we’ve sold houses through all of them over time. There are hardly any builders locally we have not worked with or that we don’t know.

WITH NEW CONSTRUCTION, YOU DON’T SAVE THE MONEY BY NOT USING A REAL ESTATE AGENT. A lot of people think, “well, I don’t want to use a realtor because I want to save whatever that commission is. I want them them pass those savings onto me.” gure that a realtor is going to be a part of every

They are going to make sure that everything is set up properly. A professional realtor knows what closing costs are. Your new construction realtor will help YOUR NEW CONSTRUCTION REALTOR SHOULD HAVE AWESOME REFERRAL SOURCES. So for example we have some home inspectors we work with. They go through each phase of the construction process. Also: homeowners insurance referrals,

A NEW CONSTRUCTION REALTOR SHOULD HOLD YOUR HAND THROUGHOUT THE PROCESS.

If the builder can get 20% as a deposit, they would. It’s typical that we negotiate what that is. For them to take the home of the market or start the construction process, it may be $2,000 or maybe $5,000, but if they could get 20%, they’re going to get 20% from you so you need a realtor representing you for that. in, when you’d make decisions on what

If there’s an in-house lender; let’s say you can’t get pre-approved with that in-house lender. We will probably be able to get you pre-approved elsewhere and then work to deal with the builder to make sure you still get incentives as if you’re using a in-house lender, very important stuf

CONGRATULATIONS TO AREA HIGH SCHOOL

VALEDICTORIANS & SALUTATORIANS

Valedictorian

Plans

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Compiled by Taylor Wells

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40 YEARS SERVING CHILDREN

$1 GOLF FOR KIDS THIS SUMMER AT ACE GOLF RANGES

Staf Report

Are the kids driving you crazy and playing too many video games this summer? Want to have them do something healthy and learn a lifelong sport? Then look to Ace Golf, which is ofering a $1 summer golf practice program for kids ages 4-15. Every day from June 1 through Saturday, August 31, kids can sign up to receive a $1 small bucket of range balls or a $1 round of miniature golf each day for the whole summer. Kids hit the balls on the practice ranges and miniature golf courses at Bay-area Ace Golf locations. And it’s all just $1 per activity.

“There are a lot of families out there that just can’t aford to put kids in camps, or they just want something productive to fill their summer,” said Bill Place, owner of Ace Golf Ranges and Golf Courses. “We want to help, and hopefully in the process, we may find the next Tiger Woods.” How it works:

• Children may sign up for free at either of two Ace Golf locations in Riverview or Land O’ Lakes.

• Each child receives a daily stamp card for a $1 small bucket or $1 miniature golf each day.

• Each time the child redeems their bucket, they will get a stamp on their card noting the redemption.

• Redeemable from Monday through

Thursday, open until 4 p.m. Not available on Friday, Saturday or Sunday.

• No other purchase is necessary. Kids should bring a golf club with them, or they may rent one.

A parent must accompany all children using the program at all times.

In addition to the $1 bucket or mini golf program, kids may also play golf for $1 when accompanied by a paying parent at Ace Golf’s Plantation Palms Golf Club after 12 Noon every day from June 1 through the end of October.

Ace Golf Range is located at 12910 Boyette Rd. in Riverview (phone: 813 6727750; website: https://ace-golf.com/). It is open daily until 10 p.m. The facility features a lighted golf practice range, miniature golf and batting cages. Ace Golf’s Plantation Palms Golf Club is in Land O’ Lakes (phone: 813 996-4653; website: www.plantationpalms.net). It is open to the public and offers a public championship golf course, an 18-hole miniature golf course, Mulligans Irish Pub, and a banquet/events center.

Ace Golf has been family-owned by locals Su Lee and Bill Place since 1993. In addition to the $1 kids program, each location ofers summer golf camps, clinics and private and group golf lessons. For more information, please visit https://ace-golf.com/.

DISCOVERY PASS: FREE ADMISSION TO MUSEUMS THANKS TO LIBRARY

The arts, a collection of sophisticated human practices defined by creative expression, storytelling and cultural participation, is something everyone can enjoy in some fashion. The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative (HCPLC) is once again o f ering a budget-friendly way for families to enjoy the arts — and escape the summer heat — with the return of the HCPLC Discovery Pass.

By Gunnar Wagner

Te Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative’s Discovery Pass ofers families free admission to many local attractions.

ue.” Finally, make sure to review your information. Once it has been confirmed, click “Submit This Request” and you will be presented with a confirmation page where you can print out your reservation and send it on to the specified organization. Once that’s done, you’re all set.

Below are just a few of the many offered attractions that accept the Discovery Pass:

The Discovery Pass is a pass that gives families free admission or a tour pass to select local museums and attractions. All you need is a library card. According to Shannon, a librarian at the Bruton Memorial Library in Plant City, the Discovery Pass has “great value for families, kids and adults, and, in my opinion, it is definitely worth it.”

The best part is that reserving a Discovery Pass is easy. Simply go to the HCPLC website at https://hcplc.org/, select “Services” and then click on the “Discovery Pass” box. Next, go to “Reserve a Pass,” look through the calendar and choose a museum or attraction and a date to make a reservation. Once your library card is verified, fill out the “Pass Request” form and click “Contin-

· Tampa Bay History Center: Experience what Tampa was like in the 1920s with the whole family.

· Glazer Children’s Museum: Take your children to a place where they can play, discover and connect to the world around them to develop as lifelong learners and leaders.

· The Tampa Theatre: Learn all of the theater’s secrets, stories and art with its Balcony-to-Backstage Tour.

· American Victory Ship and Museum: Tour nine decks of one of the few fully operational WWII ships in the country and experience an unforgettable voyage of discovery with your family.

For more information about the Discovery Pass, to reserve one and to find other attractions that accept it, visit https://hcplc.org/services/discoverypass.

Ace Golf is once again ofering a $1 summer golf practice program for kids.

BRINGING HIGH-RISK PREGNANCY CARE CLOSE TO HOME

If a routine pregnancy ultrasound reveals a potential issue with a mom or her baby, she doesn’t need the added stress of having to wait weeks or travel long distances to get answers. Similarly, if a pregnant woman has a preexisting condition like diabetes or high blood pressure, she’ll need close monitoring to ensure a healthy outcome for herself and her baby.

The maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialists at AdventHealth Tampa are helping more moms get convenient access to specialty pregnancy care in our community. Francis Nuthalapaty, M.D., explained that women in the Tampa Bay area have historically had trouble accessing the maternity care they need. Bringing these services into our community solves that problem for many families — and helps more moms have successful, healthy pregnancies.

Women are referred to MFM specialists by their obstetricians. While the flagship ofce is near the AdventHealth Tampa hospital, the team uses a satellite approach to bring specialty care to obstetrician ofces across the region. In some cases, patients meet with MFM specialists via telehealth — overcoming common barriers to care like travel, time of work and child care challenges.

MFM specialists treat health conditions in both developing babies and in moms. Once the team identifies a patient who

Staf Report

needs specialized care, they assign a nurse navigator.

“The nurse navigator becomes the primary point of contact for our patients, coordinating additional needed appointments and even working to schedule them on the same day, when possible,” said Dr. Nuthalapaty.

Depending on the diagnosis, MFM specialists may be able to treat the condition while the baby is still developing in the womb. When the MFM team expects a baby to be born with certain diferences (such as a heart defect or development problem), they can connect the family with local pediatric subspecialty providers during the pregnancy. This allows the family to meet with the providers who’ll be caring for their baby after birth, ask questions and feel as prepared as possible for the road that lies ahead.

Dr. Nuthalapaty brings the signature AdventHealth compassionate, whole-person approach to high-risk pregnancy care.

“A lot of these situations are really shocking for families,” he explained. “We have to tell families that there’s a little bit of a diference with their baby that they didn’t expect.”

Providing nurturing, emotional support is critical for the work that the MFM team does.

To learn more, visit www.tampaobexperts.com or call 813-291-2623.

KEEP YOUR POOL CLEAN THIS SUMMER WITH AMERICA’S SWIMMING POOL COMPANY

With summertime just around the corner, keeping your pool clean and refreshing is more important than ever.

America’s Swimming Pool Company (ASP), the newest pool service company, opened in SouthShore in February and is excited to help community members get their pools ready for swimming season and stay ready all year long with regular services.

ASP ofers a two-tier weekly maintenance, including pool cleaning and maintenance of the chemicals, as well as repairs, equipment upgrades and renovations such as refinishing and retiling pools. While summer might be the most important time for your pool to be swim ready, living in Florida means pools need regular maintenance. ASP ofers year-round maintenance and cleaning to keep pools ready to go whenever the weather is warm.

“In the summer, it’s important to understand all the demands on your pool’s chlorine and maintain a residual to prevent algae from debris, UV from the sun and bather load,” said Travis Larson, owner of the SouthShore ASP location. “In the winter, the cooler temperatures help to mitigate the algae growth; however, it presents other challenges, as lower temperatures do afect the overall water balance.”

Larson recently retired from 20 years

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

of service in the Navy as a submarine ofcer, which included jobs like being an engineer on a nuclear-powered submarine, being an executive ofcer and being part of the U.S. Special Operations Command. Because of this experience, Larson brings years of knowledge in engineering, piping and electrical repairs and water chemistry to ASP.

“I opened ASP because I wanted to connect with my community, provide a service that has historically lacked a professional approach and the opportunity to work outdoors,” said Larson.

ASP takes pride in not only helping pool owners keep their pools swim ready but also striving to help the community and the world through supporting organizations. On top of being proud sponsors of Apollo Beach Elementary, ASP is partnered with OneWorld Health to provide clean water to health care settings globally through the ‘Clean Water Matters’ campaign. Water chemistry, especially for pools, is a complex process, and mistakes can easily happen when maintaining a home pool. The easiest way to avoid damage to the water quality is to rely on professionals who understand and can maintain the balance.

For information, visit www.asppoolco. com/south-shore-fl/ or call the ofce at 813-641-4936.

Amy and Travis Larson of America’s Swimming Pool Company in SouthShore.

Gregory Ennis and Travis Larson of America’s Swimming Pool Company in SouthShore.

Francis Nuthalapaty, M.D.

STUDENT CREATES NONPROFIT TO SUPPORT & SUPPLY STUDENTS OF ALL ABILITIES

At a young age, Pranathi Manivannan recognized the need in her community for better educational resources for children with developmental disabilities. Her mother worked as a teacher at a school for individuals with special needs, and Manivannan often visited. Noticing that the school was underfunded, unsanitary and lacked proper educational resources, she decided to do something about it.

Today, Manivannan is a rising senior at Strawberry Crest High School and the founder of EmpowerED, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing support and supplies to children with autism and special needs.

EmpowerED has already made a significant impact on the local community. Under Manivannan’s leadership, the organization has raised money for children with special needs by partnering with sponsors like Todd Allen and the Brandon Rotary Club, who have helped her expand her reach and establish connections with local businesses and other nonprofit leaders.

EmpowerED’s work has also garnered international recognition. Leaders Across the World recognized Manivannan as a member of its 2023 Changemakers Across the World cohort and donated several hundred dollars in support of EmpowerED’s cause. Manivannan used this money to purchase laptops, technology and playground equipment for

By Jamie Lu

children with special needs.

But she’s only just getting started. One of EmpowerED’s main goals is to establish a school specifically for children with developmental disabilities — a goal that the organization has already taken steps toward achieving. Last year, Manivannan worked with local teachers to open a school and operate it for several months, but as of now they are still attempting to acquire more funding and materials to develop a specialized learning program for the students. To accomplish this, Manivannan has plans to host a book drive and used technology drive in the near future. She is also seeking sponsorships from local businesses and is in the process of designing an Instagram page and a website for EmpowerED.

Manivannan recognizes how teamwork and support have been integral to the cause and thanked Eleanor Saunders from ECHO, Shawn and Jillian McGuinn, Marci Schmeck and her parents for their support and guidance throughout her journey.

“Our mission is inclusivity,” Manivannan said. “We want to champion the unique strengths of children with disabilities and special needs. We’re trying to create an environment of understanding and respect and collaboration.”

To get involved, contact Manivannan at pranathi.manivannan@gmail.com or 813389-0850.

FIVE LOCAL GYMNASTS ADVANCE AT NATIONAL COMPETITION

Five Tampa Bay Rhythmics gymnasts qualified for nationals after competing against gymnasts across the country at the end of May.

Alexis Georgiev, Madeline Beiter and Priscilla Marin, who are level-nine seniors, advanced to the elite qualifiers in the national competition, formerly known as the Junior Olympics. While they may not have made it to nationals, Tampa Bay Rhythmics owner Tyana Marlowe said the accomplishment was a “big step forward.”

“The most rewarding part was the relief after the competition knowing I gave it my best and now I could relax,” Georgiev said. “Hearing them call my name up as one of the gymnastics that qualified for nationals was very rewarding, and it was something I could bring back to my gym with pride.”

In addition to the three level-nine seniors, two level-six gymnasts, Zaida Leal and Tatiana Acevedo, advanced to the developmental championships. They competed in the championship at the beginning of June.

Coach Pam Tang has coached many of the gymnasts since they were little and has watched them develop as athletes and individuals.

“They are all very, very hard working,” Tang said. “… It’s been such a pleasure watching them grow up and be successful and become women of their own.”

The gymnasts are balancing Advanced

By Lily Belcher

Placement and dual-enrollment classes in high school while putting in between 25-30 hours of gymnastics practice a week.

Beiter said balancing school and gymnastics can be one of the most challenging parts, especially when she wants to commit even more time to her sport. The most rewarding part for her is celebrating successes with her best friends. She also said spending her time at Tampa Bay Rhythmics has allowed her teammates to become family.

“We see each other every day,” Beiter said. “Even when we don’t have practice, we’re all still hanging out together, supporting each other.”

Tampa Bay Rhythmics and Dance opened in 2007 and ofers a range of performing arts teams, including gymnastics, in the Riverview area. The team of coaches trains gymnasts from preschool athletes to young adults in competitive teams.

Through rhythmic gymnastics — a rapidly growing Olympic sport — gymnasts combine dance skills, including flexibility and balance, to make floor routines more graceful and complex.

“Our gym is exclusively for gymnastics and using dance to enhance women’s gymnastics,” Marlowe said.

Visit www.tampabayrhythmics.com or call 813-741-2827 or email tampabayrhythmics@verizon.net.

Madeline Beiter has balanced school and gymnastics.

Alexis Georgiev has ‘grown up’ at Tampa Bay Rhythmics.

Pranathi Manivannan (far right) standing with (left to right) Marci Schmeck, Jillian McGuinn and Shawn McGuinn, carrying playground equipment purchased with the money donated by Leaders Across the World.

SCHOLARSHIP PROVIDES UP TO $10,000 PER YEAR FOR LOW-INCOME STUDENTS AT UF PLANT CITY

Getting through higher education is difcult for many students. Some may have to use student loans; others must find jobs in order to support their goal of attaining their degrees. Yet, through all the difculties, there is another solution. GeT-STEM, a new scholarship for the geomatics program at the University of Florida (UF) at Plant City, is available for low-income students.

Tis is one piece of equipment that students use in geomatics. Te drone took pictures of a farmland that has had drought for weeks, of which the students analyze the problem and come up with potential solutions.

For those unaware of Geomatics, it is the field of gathering, storing, processing, and delivering geographical information to special equipment that analyzes the acquired data. This scholarship is unique because eligible students transferring to the UF geomatics program can receive up to $10,000/year to cover unmet financial needs.

The scholarship is realized through a National Science Foundation (NSF) Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics program grant to fund a six-year project led by Dr. Amr Abd- Elrahman, a professor of the geomatics program.

Dr. Abd-Elrahman said, “This academic year (2023-24), we have awarded more than $70,000 to 11 qualified students.” Dr. Abd-Elrahman added that four of the awarded students graduated this spring.

Professor Ali Gonzalez, a specialist in

By Gunnar Wagner

the geomatics program and a co-worker of Dr. Abd-Elrahman, stated that “graduates have salaries that start from $60K annually in addition to rewarding benefits packages. Students can also work while completing the program, gaining from $25/hour for field work to $20/ hour or more for ofce work.”

Gonzalez also mentioned that students are typically given several options: They can either study full time or they can find a job in the geospatial industry to gain experience and earn a substantial income.

So, what are the requirements for this brilliant scholarship? For one to be eligible, they must be enrolled in the geomatics program for at least six credit hours during the semesters the scholarship is awarded, demonstrate academic merit by meeting program requirements and maintaining a 2.5 GPA, be low-income students with unmet financial need based on the information provided in their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and be a U.S. citizen.

To learn more about this scholarship or others like it, visit https://fgs.ifas.ufl. edu/geomatics-get-stem-scholarship or https://fgs.ifas.ufl.edu/resources/. The University of Florida at Plant City campus is located at 1200 N. Park Rd.

RIVERVIEW ARTIST MARY DORSETT GIVES BACK WITH TALENTS

Riverview resident Mary Dorsett is a realist who uses contemporary mediums for paintings, sculptures, drawings and crafts. Her abstract and colorful artworks pay homage to her visions in the art arena. Her calm, personal style radiates joy and peace that are expressed in her vibrant spirit in every design stroke to achieve something extraordinary.

Riverview resident Mary Dorsett is a realist who uses contemporary mediums for paintings, sculptures, drawings and crafts. Dorsett is a cancer survivor, a wife, a mother and an art teacher at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association.

“I call this another level,” Dorsett said. “I’m an upcycler, which means everything can be turned into art. I make art out of palm bark, recycled plastics, rocks, inks, acrylic oils, polishes, leaves and homemade porcelain clay.”

Doing all of this has earned her the nickname ‘Cardboard Mary.’

“I am a visionary,” Dorsett said. “You may see newspaper, cardboard or even cotton. I see a beautiful angel waiting to take flight, and I welcome you to join me on this visual journey to explore your thoughts.”

Dorsett is a cancer survivor, a wife, a mother and an art teacher at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association. From a very young age, Dorsett believed she could do anything that she put her mind to.

“I believe you can create anything from something once you feel it in your heart; you can see it in your mind,” said Dorsett. She instills this belief in the young stu-

By Libby Hopkins

dents of her children’s classes and her adult classes at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association.

If Dorsett is asked to create a mural or an art installation in the community, she immediately gets her creative juices flowing and creates a beautiful work of art.

“I have to say, I honestly love people,” Dorsett said. “I love creating art with them and giving back to our community. I love when a student tells me they can do something. I tell them they can if they just put their mind to it.”

Recently, Dorsett was asked to help a local elementary school with the decorations for its graduation ceremony. The school’s graduation theme is ‘Under the Sea.’ Dorsett immediately went to work cutting out cardboard characters, deepsea creatures and a submarine.

“I loved it when I was asked to help this school,” Dorsett said. “I want these students to have a wonderful graduation ceremony. I also want them to be inspired to create art.”

If you would like to take Dorsett’s adult drawing class or her Creative Sparks class at Center Place, call Center Place at 813685-8888. Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon inside the Brandon Regional Library.

TURNING EYESORES INTO WORKS OF ART IN DOWNTOWN PLANT CITY

Historic Plant City

Main Street Inc. and MAKE Plant City

teamed up for a public art project known as Trash Can-Vas. The project is intended to enhance access to the arts by working with local artists to create and paint designs that celebrate Florida nature on downtown dumpsters. The newest one, created by Victoria Creel, was unveiled on May 23. The Trash Can-Vas is located in the parking lot behind Krazy Kup, located at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. on the corner of Collins Street and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.

Creel, a resident of Valrico, is also a photographer with Victoria Michelle Photography. The theme for this year’s project was ‘Florida Nature.’

Creel said, “I grew up in Plant City and camped and did a lot of nature stuf. I though about all the things I saw and what I wanted to seek, like otters.”

Creel added, “Our current world is very busy. I wanted to create a sense of calm and serenity. If my art is something that someone can look at and feel peaceful and reflect on their childhood memories, I am pleased.”

Erin Hollenkamp spearheaded the project with the first dumpster in 2023.

Erin said, “I was trying to incorporate art into the downtown area. I wanted to

By Kathy L. Collins

put art in an unexpected area.”

Jay Hollenkamp expanded by adding, “We wanted to turn an eyesore into a positive.”

MAKE Plant City monitored the status of the dumpster created in 2023 to see how it withheld use and the elements. It remains a beautiful piece.

Creel’s piece is festooned with all sorts of flora and fauna that are indigenous to the area, even otters.

The Trash Can-Vas project is funded by a Community Arts Impact Grant from the Arts Council of Hillsborough Couty (funding specifically comes from the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners). Martine Collier, division director for the arts council, said, “The arts council launched the Community Arts Impact Grant in 2018 to try and reach deeper into the community and support grassroots arts initiatives. This Plant City project is a perfect match for this funding and evidence that impact of this grant reaches broadly across the entire county.”

For more information on the events and projects of Historic Plant City Main Street and the Arts Council of Hillsborough County, please visit www.plantcitymainstreet.org and http://hillsborougharts.org/. You can follow MAKE Plant City on Facebook and Instagram.

ROTARY SPOTLIGHT: ACTIVITIES, MEETINGS &

Interact Club of Tampa Bay (High School Students)

The Interact Club of Tampa Bay held its last meeting of this school year on May 6. The club celebrated by handing out $500 worth of gift cards for food and/or beverages to locals at the Westfield Brandon mall, and then enjoyed a complimentary ride on the carousel. Service and fun are what Rotary is all about. Check back in July for the date of the August meeting for area high schoolers at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center, located at 3007 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. Have a great summer! For more information, contact Chad Norgard at chad@norgardinsgrp. com.

Te Interact Club celebrated the end of the year by handing out $500 worth of gift cards to locals at the Westfeld Brandon mall, and then found time for some fun on the carousel.

USF Rotaract (College Students)

Do you have any students attending the University of South Florida this summer or fall? As long as students have a BullsConnect account, they can sign up to volunteer with USF Rotaract. It’s a great opportunity to meet new friends and connect with some great students during the summer term or before starting in fall. The USF Rotaract Club received the Volunteer Organization of the Year Award as well as the USF Bridge Builder Award. Go be a part of this dynamic service group! For more information, contact Mikayla Morris at mikaylamorris@usf. edu or visit Instagram @usf_rotaract. FishHawk-Riverview

Congratulations to the 2024 FishHawk-Riverview Rotary high school scholarship recipients who have demonstrated “Service Above Self” in their school careers:

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Zakiyah Adams, (Stanley Thomas Rzad III Memorial Scholarship), Emilee Nevaril, Madisyn McReynolds, Bethany Murrell, London Berry, Lindsay Edwards, Callie Hancock, Gabrielle Howell, Luke Pedrick, Ta’liah Randolph and Lukas Wheeler. The club is also excited to announce that rising high school seniors Ava Benedict and Grifn Chapman will be the FishHawk-Riverview Rotary delegates to the Seminar for Tomorrow’s Leaders (S4TL), a weeklong Rotary leadership seminar for rising high school seniors at Florida Southern College in June. For more information, email Barbara Howard at bh6890rotary@gmail.com or visit FishHawk-Riverview Rotary’s social media pages.

Brandon South Global Eco

Are you passionate about the environment? Then the Brandon South Global Eco Rotary Club needs you. Help it make a diference by joining its Zoom meeting on the second and fourth Mondays of each month from 6-7 p.m. to discuss environmental education and ecological-friendly projects focused on sustainability. For more information, contact Bruno Kazenas at 813-263-7062 or bkazenas@comcast.net.

Brandon ’86

The Brandon ’86 Rotary Club completed a roadside cleanup on Providence Road on May 4. Throughout the summer, the club meets weekly on Fridays from 8-9 a.m. at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center, located at 3007 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. Go check it out! For more information, email info@brandon86rotary.com.

Michael Francis, Music Director

Historic Plant City Main Street and MAKE Plant City teamed up with local artist Victoria Creel to take a utilitarian piece of equipment that is functional, but an eyesore, and turn it into a whimsical public art piece.

TECO To Lower Rates A Second Time This Year

In January, Tampa Electric Company reduced residential bills by nearly $18 because of a decline in fuel prices and other factors and recently approved a further reduction, this time about $7 based on continued low natural gas prices.

ration and two from Integrated Coach Corporation.

The 20 buses are 77 passenger capacity Type-C buses and will serve specific inner-city routes to the district’s underserved communities. The buses should be operational in early 2025, after the necessary training and infrastructure construction (e.g., charging stations) can be completed.

In February, the district was awarded $7.9 million in funding for clean school buses as part of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s first Clean School Bus Program Grants Competition.

Creative Sparks Summer Camp

DIVE INTO ADVENTURE ISLAND, FEATURING ALL-NEW CASTAWAY FALLS, NEW WAVE POOL AND FAN-FAVORITE ISLAND NIGHTS

Staf Report

“Tampa Electric is pleased to be in a position to reduce electricity bills again this year,” said Archie Collins, president and CEO of Tampa Electric. “We are happy to provide customers with some welcome relief as the summer’s heat begins.”

Hillsborough County Schools Purchases 20 Electric School Buses

The Hillsborough County School Board voted to purchase 20 electric school buses, nine from Thomas Built Buses Inc., nine from Blue Bird Corpo-

Does your child need somewhere to express their creative side this summer? Look no further than the Creative Sparks Summer Camp at Center Place Arts & Civic Association, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon. Activities will include storytelling, painting, arts, crafts, games, music and lots of fun. The camp is for ages K-10 and will take place from Monday to Friday, July 15-19, from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Register online at https://centerplacebrandon.com/ or by calling 813685-8888. If you register before July, the cost is $150. Later registration will cost $175.

Summer is here, and Adventure Island, Tampa’s island paradise, is the ultimate summer destination, featuring the recent debut of the all-new Castaway Falls, a new wave pool and the much-anticipated return of the fan-favorite Island Nights. Guests of all ages are invited to dive into a world of excitement and relaxation with thrilling new attractions and unforgettable evening events that promise to make this summer the best one yet.

“Summer is an exciting time at Adventure Island,” said Philip Boykin, vice president of Adventure Island. “From our thrilling attractions to our serene tropical escapes, there are plenty of opportunities to choose your own adventure this summer at Adventure Island.”

Set within a tropical paradise, Castaway Falls invites guests of all ages to immerse themselves in a watery world of excitement. This exhilarating attraction is the centerpiece of Adventure Island’s comprehensive revitalization, which also includes recent additions such as Shaka-Laka Shores, Rapids Racer, Wahoo Remix slides and the transformed Captain Pete’s and Hang Ten Tiki Bar. These enhancements create a refreshed atmosphere, complete

with new lounging areas and cabanas, providing visitors with the ultimate tropical retreat.

Guests can splash all day and into the night with the return of Island Nights, featuring extended park hours until 8 p.m. every Friday in July. Guests can capture fun selfies with a 360-degree camera, enjoy lively parties with stilt performers and groove to the beats of dynamic DJs on select nights. This event ofers thrilling entertainment and a family-friendly dance party suitable for all ages. An Adventure Island Annual Pass is the best way to enjoy an entire year of family fun, thrilling attractions and exciting seasonal events. Categorized in easy-to-use tiers, options provide guests with unlimited, year-round admission and unbeatable benefits, including free parking, in-park discounts, monthly rewards and payments starting as low as $10.50 per month.

Located across the street from Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Adventure Island is Tampa Bay’s premier water park, featuring a combination of exhilarating water slides and tropical, tranquil surroundings. Guests can dig their toes into the sand or relax in lounge chairs or a private cabana. For more information, visit https:// adventureisland.com/.

While visiting Washington D.C., Kerrie Hoening toured the Ford’s Theater, where President Lincoln was shot, and the Petersen House, across the street, where Lincoln died the next morning.

Trilling water slides await, such as Rapids Racer, Wahoo Remix, Solar Vortex, Vanish Point, Caribbean Corkscrew, Colossal Curl, waterfalls, a 17,000-square-foot wave pool, a children’s zone and other family attractions, including the all-new Castaway Falls.

Bonefish Grill is known for its modern atmosphere that’s perfect for date nights. But, with its newly launched brunch menu served all weekend long, you can now include Bonefish Grill as the perfect brunch location too.

Bonefish Grill was founded in 2000 by Tim Curci and Chris Parker when the duo opened the very first location in St. Petersburg, fueled by their shared love for catching, cooking and serving fresh fish.

Full of fresh and innovative dishes, the Bonefish menu specializes in seasonal fresh fish and indulgent appetizers, like the crowd-favorite Bang Bang Shrimp.

For the brunch menu, several popular dishes have been upgraded, including:

• Bang Bang Shrimp Eggs Benedict: Crispy shrimp on a toasted English mufn with poached eggs, green onions and spicy hollandaise sauce.

• Traditional Eggs Benedict: Smoked ham on a toasted English mufn with poached eggs and Hollandaise sauce.

• Brûlée French Toast: Brioche bread soaked with Grand Marnier and orange zest, served with chef-crafted whipped cream, mint and fresh strawberries.

• Shrimp & Grits: Wood-grilled shrimp topped with a creamy Creole sauce, served over mozzarella-infused grits and finished with green onions and parmesan cheese.

By Marie Gilmore

Other fan favorites now ofered all weekend long during brunch include:

• BFG Egg Burger: Bonefish Grill’s signature half-pound burger on a toasted bun, fully dressed with sharp cheddar cheese and special sauce and topped with a fried egg.

• Crab and Fontina Cheese Frittata: Egg soufé topped with creamy fontina cheese and lump crab meat.

“We’re excited to bring our guests their favorite Bonefish brunch oferings, now reimagined with innovative twists and an additional day to enjoy them,” said Mark Graf, president of Bonefish Grill.

Brunch is served at Bonefish Grill every Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. To find your closest spot to grab your crew and catch up over a mouthwatering menu, visit www.bonefishgrill.com.

Ofering a flavorful and spirited neighborhood retreat, Bonefish Grill serves share-worthy food and cocktails that guests can’t wait to enjoy time and time again. Bonefish Grill ofers car-side carryout, bountiful family bundle meals that feed up to five and catering selections for everyday gatherings and special events. Dine in, order carryout online or get delivery through DoorDash or Uber Eats. For more information, visit www.bonefishgrill.com or follow it on Facebook or Instagram. Bonefish Grill Brandon is located at 1015 Providence Rd.

Visitors to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay this summer are in for a refreshing treat with the return of free beer. For a limited time, the Tampa theme park will offer one complimentary beer per day to all guests ages 21 and up and two complimentary beers per day to pass members ages 21 and up. Guests will be able to enjoy the free icecold beer daily at Orang Café located in the Jungala area of the park, with a variety of rotating options to choose from. From classic domestic brews to artisanal craft beers, guests can enjoy a refreshing drink while experiencing the thrill of award-winning roller coasters, up-close encounters with animals and all the new things happening this summer. Experience a fiery blaze of immersive, family-friendly excitement as you soar above the Serengeti Plain and drop into fun-filled twists and turns on the new Phoenix Rising coming this summer. Inspired by legends, this suspended roller coaster in vibrant Pantopia is packed with surprises and speeds up to 44 miles per hour. But with a height requirement of just 42 inches, it’s the perfect adventure for families to embark on together.

Audiences will embark on a spellbinding ice adventure following the journey of Dakari, a brave young hero, as they journey into a magical dream realm to uncover the wonders of the animal kingdom and embrace their destiny.

Guests can extend their day into a funfilled night with special seasonal entertainment at Busch Gardens’ Summer Nights. Gwazi Plaza comes alive with nightly performances of the all-new Gwazi Rocks, featuring vibrant dance and percussion beats. At the Stanleyville Theater, guests can enjoy the acrobatic feats of Cirque Electric. Plus, guests can sing along to tunes from their favorite artists during a performance of Icons at the Dragon Fire Grill.

Guests will also have the opportunity to experience the all-new Rhythm of Nature ice show at the Moroccan Palace Theater.

For the perfect ending, enjoy a dazzling firework show every Friday, Saturday and Sunday as the Summer Nights Fireworks Spectacular, presented by Bad Boy Mowers, illuminates the skies over Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Visit https://buschgardenstampa.com/ to purchase tickets and learn more about the annual pass program, and stay in the know about new events, special deals and future announcements by following Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, YouTube and X (formerly Twitter).

Try the new Bonefsh Grill brunch menu served every Saturday and Sunday.

Florida’s hottest show on dirt returns.

The Tampa Bay Rodeo & Family Festival, presented by Bartow Ford, charges into the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds on Friday and Saturday, July 19 and 20. Fresh of a sold-out event in April, this summer’s rodeo promises to be a can’t-be-missed event with new competitors, new livestock and thrilling action throughout. The area’s best cowboys and cowgirls are saddling up for two days of rodeo competition, including bull riding, bronco riding, barrel racing, team roping, calf roping and steer wrestling. Fans can come early to the Family Festival for yummy food, refreshing beverages, live music and fun activities for the entire family. Tickets are on sale now for this high-energy event; parking is free.

To beat the summer heat, guests can cool of in one of the brand-new Family Festival Cool Zones, ofering shade and misters. One Cool Zone is located in the 150-foot-by-130-foot Mega Tent, a new addition this year. The other is in the Entertainment Beer Barn where Crossfire Creek Band will take the stage both nights playing country tunes.

“We are always looking for ways to make the Tampa Bay Rodeo a bigger and

Staf Report

better experience for families,” said event producer Ryan Henning. “Providing a way for everyone to get out of the sun and cool of was important to us because of the heat we’ve been experiencing in Florida. Plus, we know fans like a full rodeo, so we are featuring six diferent competitions this summer.”

As always, there will be delicious fare, including barbecue, tacos, pork rinds, pizza, corn dogs, funnel cakes and more. Attendees can quench their thirst with cold sodas, water or refreshing beer. Making its Family Festival debut, monster truck Later Gator raises dust with wheel-churning rides. Guests can test their skills on the always-popular mechanical bull or try their hand at ax throwing. While food and some activities require an extra fee, there are plenty of amusements included in the ticket price, such as kids/family yard games, such as Jenga, Connect 4 and cornhole; the 45-foot-tall Super Slide; and a goat playground area, complete with adorable baby goats. Multiple photo-op areas allow families to capture memories of the night. For more information and tickets, please visit the https://tamparodeo.com/. The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds are located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover.

TAMPA THEATRE CUTS THE RIBBON ON NEW MICRO CINEMA

The historic Tampa Theatre cut the ribbon on the new John T. Taylor Screening Room on May 31. Special guests at the ribbon-cutting included Tampa Mayor Jane Castor and John T. Taylor, the philanthropist for whom the micro cinema was named.

By Kathy L. Collins

whole thing.”

Castor said, “The Tampa Theatre is an icon in this city.”

This is the first expansion of the historic movie palace in its 98-year history.

Taylor’s donation gave the organization the momentum it needed to secure the additional funding, primarily from the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners and the Downtown Tampa CRA Board.

Taylor said, “I have always loved the movies. I grew up going to the Arc Theater in Lafayette, Indiana, eating 10-cent popcorn and watching Roy Rogers and Gene Autry on the big screen.”

Taylor explained, “My first visit to Tampa Theatre was for a tour. I met John Bell (president and CEO of Tampa Theatre), and eventually joined the board of directors in 2012. Everything about this theater is just so fascinating to me, and when I sold our family farm in Indiana a few years ago, one of the first things I did was give them the money to kick-start this

The look of the 1,200-squarefoot room (43 seats) draws inspiration from Tampa Theatre’s original architect, John Eberson. Tampa Theatre staf imagined what type of space he might build for his own personal use. The Taylor Screening Room’s design takes colors, textures and details that Eberson used in his 1926 plans for Tampa Theatre and incorporates modern touches that pay tribute both to Eberson’s career as an architect and to his personal family collection of art and photos.

Bell said, “We currently manage to present 700 show times a year in a single space.” Bell added, “Having this second programming space will give us flexibility like we have never had before. We will be able to host more live shows, concerts and community events in the historic hall; show more of the independent, international and art-house films Tampa Theatre is known for; support more of the local film community’s work; and welcome more of our treasured Tampa Theatre guests.”

Tampa Theatre is located at 711 N. Franklin St. in Tampa. For more information on Tampa Theatre and to see a movie, please visit https://tampatheatre.org/ or call 813-274-8981.

Te Tampa Bay Rodeo & Family Festival returns in July with two days of rodeo competition plus food, beverages, fun and live music for the whole family.

On May 31, the historic Tampa Teatre cut the ribbon on the new John T. Taylor Screening Room. Tis micro cinema is the frst expansion of the Tampa Teatre in its 98-year history. Tampa Teatre is truly a gem to behold and a place you must visit.

THANKFUL MARY KAY DIRECTOR EARNS 18 CARS & CADILLACS

Thirty-three years ago, Joyce Armfield decided it was time to make a career switch. At the time, her mother, Eva, was sufering from Alzheimer’s and osteoporosis, and Armfield wanted a job that would give her the flexibility to care for her mother as her condition worsened. Several months of job hunting passed before Armfield took up her friend’s ofer to become a consultant for Mary Kay, a skin care and cosmetics company.

“It was way out of my comfort zone,” Armfield admitted, but she trusted in God’s plan. And soon, working for Mary Kay would prove to be exactly what she was looking for and more.

By Jamie Lu

ing women of all ages, ethnicities and backgrounds, forming bonds that have lasted the past 33 years. When Armfield became her mother’s full-time caretaker, she brought her mother to her marketing parties, where she was warmly welcomed by Armfield’s clients and colleagues.

“I found out how wonderful women are,” Armfield said. “I came into Mary Kay and the women treated me like gold. …These are the women I want to do life with.”

At Mary Kay, Armfield found herself making the same income that she had been making as an insurance agent but with no stress and for a fraction of the hours. She decided her own schedule and the rewards of the job were plentiful; only a few months in, Armfield earned her first free car. This was one of 18 free vehicles that she would earn during her time as a Mary Kay consultant, which included 11 pink Cadillacs. But working for Mary Kay was more than just a job — it was a community. Through her job, Armfield had the privilege of meet-

While caring for her mother, Armfield worked hard to fulfill her goal of becoming a sales director and even earned her first pink Cadillac.

Armfield’s values and faith have guided her throughout all aspects of her life, and being a consultant for Mary Kay was no exception. She has dedicated herself to making women feel beautiful, both inside and out, truly fulfilling Mary Kay’s mission of “enriching the lives of women.” Today, Armfield is a joyful woman who lives with her husband in Brandon. Her story exemplifies how faith, community and genuine compassion for others can completely transform one’s life for the better. To contact Armfield, email her directly at joycearmfield3@gmail.com.

Joyce Armfeld swith husband, Joe.

Vivir By Onyx+East Now Open

The Valrico/Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce participated in a ribbon-cutting celebrating Valrico’s newest 82 single-family home community, Vivir by Onyx+East. Located of Bloomingdale Avenue, Vivir ofers a tight-knit, quiet community feel, featuring four impressive 2-story home designs with upscale features, flex spaces, gourmet kitchens and attached garages. It’s only steps away from schools, the Campo Family YMCA, the Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, medical ofces and a variety of restaurants. Models are located at 3306 Tybee Square Blvd. and are open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Visit its website at www.onyxandeast.com/property/vivir/ for more details.

Current Chiropractic Moves To New Location

Current Chiropractic recently celebrated moving to its beautiful new ofce building at 1108 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico with a ribbon-cutting from the Valrico/Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce. Current Chiropractic

ofers neurostructural chiropractic care using gentle, precise and evidence-based adjusting techniques. It also can do X-rays if necessary and ofers an initial free consultation beforehand, only accepting patients it knows it can help, with the aim of getting patients to a point where they don’t need to visit Current Chiropractic often. Additional information can be found on its website at https://currentchiropractic.com/ or by calling 813-6034466.

JF Kicks Welcomes New Chef And Menu

JF Kicks has been a Valrico staple since 2007, and it has slowly transformed from a local bar that serves food into a hometown neighborhood

meeting place where you can eat great American cuisine. Chef Guillermo Becker recently took over the kitchen and brought with him an extensive culinary background and some fresh ideas on some old staples, along with a variety of tasty new dishes. Originally from Los Angeles, California, Becker strives for perfection with his knowledge of Mexican and Cuban fusion cuisine.

JF Kicks is located at 3345 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Visit its website at https://jfkicksrestaurant.com/ to view its new menu.

Osprey Nest Enterprises LLC & HARTLINE Communications Named Agency Of Record For Hillsborough County Fair

Osprey Nest Enterprises LLC, a Tampa Bay-based strategic com-

munications agency, in partnership with Gainesville-based HARTLINE Communications, has been named the Communications Agency of Record for the Greater Hillsborough County Fair Association’s self-produced events.

The contract encompasses a range of services tailored to support the events produced by the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds staf, including their signature event, the Hillsborough County Fair, as well as Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village, the inaugural Catch the Spirit & Celebrate America July 4th festival and the Back 2 School Bash.

Visit https://ospreynest.me/ and www. hartlinecommunications.com for more

Lisa Taylor of Osprey Nest Enterprises and Melinda Hartline of HARTLINE Communications.

JF Kicks’ new chef, Guillermo Becker, brings a variety of tasty new dishes to its menu.

Te Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce helped Onyx+East celebrate its newest community Vivir, with a ribbon cutting.

EYE ON BUSINESS...CONTINUED

information about the companies.

Visit https:// hillsboroughcountyfair. com/ for year-round fairground events and updates.

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Compiled By Jenny Bennett

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also has a variety of smash session packages. Glowin-the-dark splatter paint experiences and axe-throwing lanes with digitally projected games are available as well. To learn more about iSMASH, visit its website at https:// ismashusa.com/locations/fl-tampa/ or call 813-807-6274.

Cooley Law School Relocating To Temple Terrace

Cooley Law School has finalized plans to move its Tampa Bay campus, currently located in Riverview, to the Tampa Oaks area of Temple Terrace, close to downtown Tampa.

iSMASH Celebrates

With A Ribbon-cutting iSMASH celebrated joining the Central Hillsborough County Chamber of Commerce with a ribbon-cutting at its location in Brandon at 863 E. Bloomingdale Ave. iSMASH o f ers three fun and exciting activities which allow you to blow o f steam in a totally safe space.

Along with rage rooms that can accommodate groups up to 15 people, iSMASH

Earlier this year, Cooley entered into an agreement to sell its current campus to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Cooley is leasing back the current campus at 9445 Camden Field Parkway until construction at Tampa Oaks II is complete. Cooley’s campus will occupy part of the first floor and the entire second floor of the Tampa Oaks II building located at 12906 Tampa Oaks Blvd., which is near the University of South Florida, other higher education institutions and the I-75 corridor between Fletcher and Fowler avenues. Cooley will lease the new campus from ESF Properties 22-01 LLC.

For more information about Cooley Law School, visit www.cooley.edu.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL ATHLETES AND COACHES RECEIVE RECOGNITION

Several athletes in Hillsborough County were given awards in an annual Spring banquet.

Mark Church, head wrestling coach at Bloomingdale High School, was given the Joel Medgebow Wrestling Coach of the Year award. His team finished among the top three in the Jerry Mita Memorial tournament, the Ben Richards Memorial tournament, county championships and districts. The team placed first at the John Joyce Memorial tournament. He had nine regional qualifiers, four state qualifiers and one medalist on the team.

“Coach Church has continued to grow our wrestling program this year and always puts his athletes in the best position to be successful,” said Bloomingdale athletic director Sara Bogue. “His wrestling knowledge is unmatched, and he gives countless hours to his athletes and the sport of wrestling. He has high expectations and holds his athletes accountable on and of the mat.”

Nathan Ly of Armwood High School won the Andres Garcia Memorial Tennis Award. He lettered all four years in tennis and is a four-year team captain. He will attend the University of Florida and plans to major in electrical engineering.

“His leadership ability is seen in his selfless love for the game and his willingness to share that knowledge,” said his coach, Kyle Mt. Pleasant. “Without asking, we can count on him to work with the players and to have

By Nick Nahas

the patience to go over every detail and mechanic necessary to improve their game.”

Thomas Gernhart from Brandon High School was named Male Wrestler of the Year. He wrestled all four years and has 100 career pins and 138 wins. He is a three-time state placer and three-time district champion. As a junior, he was 45-9 and a district champion. As a senior, his record was 56-1, he was a district and region champion and he finished third in the state. He will be attending Coker University on a wrestling scholarship.

“He has a positive attitude and a great spirit for competitiveness,” said Brandon wrestling head coach Joe Cozart.

Arden Swindle from Strawberry Crest High School was named Female Wrestler of the Year.

Since starting wrestling in 10th grade, her record was 15-1 as a sophomore, 23-3 as a junior and 17-6 as a senior. She’s a twotime state qualifier and a three-time region qualifier. Swindle is a two-time Hillsborough County champ and the 2024 FHSAA district champion. She will be attending Hillsborough Community College and plans on majoring in nursing.

“She is an excellent wrestler that is very positive and motivates those around her,” said coach Justin Weaver. “She is a team leader and one of the most accomplished female wrestlers in the school’s history.”

Nathan Ly of Armwood won the Andres Garcia Memorial Tennis Award.

Arden Swindle from Strawberry Crest was named Female Wrestler of the Year.

10TH ANNUAL SHARKCON IS COMING TO THE FLORIDA STATE FAIRGROUNDS IN JULY

The 10th SharkCon will host celebrity guests, ocean conservationists and shark experts at the Florida State Fairgrounds Expo Hall in July to promote ocean and shark conservation.

SharkCon, an annual National Geographic SharkFest event, will bring in engaging speakers and fun activities for guests of all ages on Saturday and Sunday, July 13-14.

“We have five white shark specialists all coming to talk,” executive director Spencer Steward said. “So, this will be the year of the white shark as far as the talks go.”

This year’s SharkCon will also host the largest panel of Jaws franchise actors. Guests will have the opportunity to get autographs and attend a VIP meet and greet with actor Richard Dreyfuss. On July 13, SharkCon is hosting a screening of Jaws: The Revenge for guests who purchase an additional ticket.

Steward said he thought it would be interesting to have the actors come in and talk about their work, especially since SharkCon attendees see them on their TVs and Steward wanted to give them the opportunity to meet the stars in-person.

The speakers will also host small break-

By Lily Belcher

out sessions for guests to ask more in-depth questions.

Local aquariums, SeaWorld, Gatorland and over 20 ocean conservation groups will host exhibits. Over 100 vendors will provide shark-related merchandise, including jewelry, art and other collectibles.

“SharkCon is more than just a great time,” reads the press release. “It is an event dedicated to raising awareness about shark and ocean conservation, as well as sustainability. It raises money for ocean and shark conservation eforts, which are undertaken by our partners at SharkCon.”

Dozens of nonprofit organizations will also attend to ofer opportunities and advice on how guests can play an active role in saving the oceans.

Additionally, Trilogy Dive Center is hosting an indoor scuba diving activity with trained professionals.

“So, if you like shark shows on TV, then this is your place,” Steward said.

Tickets for the event are on sale online at https://sharkcon.com/. Adult tickets cost $24.95 and children tickets cost $4.95. Tickets will also be available at the door for a higher price.

For information or to volunteer at SharkCon, visit https://sharkcon.com/ or call 941-539-0833.

BRINGING ACCESSIBLE EMERGENCY CARE TO THE COMMUNITY

Manatee Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Care Center (ECC) treats more than 80,000 children and adult patients each year. The expanded center is just under 33,000 square feet, making it the largest ECC in the county.

Freestanding Emergency Departments

Manatee Memorial Hospital’s freestanding emergency departments (FED) handle emergencies and are each fully stafed with a doctor onsite 24/7. They can perform CT scans as well as full X-rays, and they all have a comprehensive lab*. With the full services ofered, the FEDs are not urgent care centers but are a part of Manatee Memorial Hospital.

THE BLEED® program has prepared over 3 million people worldwide on how to stop bleeding in a severely injured person. Manatee Memorial brings this program to the community.

“We are preparing the public to save lives by teaching actions to stop life-threatening bleeding following emergencies and man-made and natural disasters,” said Jill Ruf, who oversees the program with emergency department paramedic Ed Wheat.

Shelly Lucchesi, employee health manager, added, “Being able to tend to a bleeding wound while waiting for EMS to arrive may be the diference between life and death.”

“Manatee County has grown exponentially in recent years, and yet the hospitals are stationary,” said Teresa Rawe, D.O., medical director for emergency medicine at Manatee Memorial. “We make it easier for patients to access emergency care.”

“Typically, our FEDs have a shorter waiting time to be seen,” explained Tammy Sloas, nursing director at Manatee FEDs. “If an admission is necessary, we will transport a patient to the hospital.”

FEDs vs. Urgent Care Centers

Urgent care centers have set hours and treat nonemergency issues. However, most centers don’t have comprehensive labs that can provide answers on-site and are limited in radiology services.

Educating the Community

The American College of Surgeons’ STOP

If you’re having a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

For information about locations, visit the hospital’s website at www.manateememorial.com/emergency.

*These emergency departments are part of Manatee Memorial Hospital. They are not urgent care centers. Their services and care are billed at hospital emergency department rates. Wait times may vary.

Physicians are on the medical staff of Manatee Memorial Hospital, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Manatee Memorial Hospital. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit the hospital’s website.

SharkCon will host a panel of movie stars and experts in the two-day event.

Manatee Memorial Hospital operates freestanding emergency departments to allow patients easier, convenient access to emergency care.

GET THE DIRT:

HURRICANE SEASON IS HEADING OUR WAY

BY LYNN BARBER, URBAN HORTICULTURE AGENT

Hurricane season starts on June 1. The time to put your hurricane preparation plan together is now. This way, you can minimize issues during and after the storm.

An important first step is to walk around your house, lanai, porch and landscape. Identify what can become flying objects in strong winds. Think about flowerpots, bird feeders, lawn furniture, plant hangers, garden hoses, metal yard art and much more.

The second step is to implement your ‘relocation’ strategy. What items can be relocated to your garage, storage shed, inside your home or possibly under or behind shrubs near your house? If you have potted plants on your front porch, you could lay them down horizontally behind the shrubs. If you stand the pots upright, they will fill with rainwater that, over a few days, could damage the plant. Now that you have identified what can be moved, start the relocation process. It may well take more time than you anticipate, so starting sooner than later is better.

Purchasing the materials you need to protect your home is the third step. If you have several doors on your lanai, consider purchasing large sections of heavy-duty plastic and bags of mulch

to absorb rainwater. Duct-tape the heavy-duty plastic to your sliding glass and other doors leaving space if there is a drain by the doors. You do not want to cover the drain. Place the bags of mulch on top of the plastic. Even though the mulch is in a bag, it can absorb rainwater. If you have a drain between the screened lanai and covered area, stack bags of mulch on the house side of the drain. The benefit of using bags of mulch versus sandbags is that you can reuse the mulch in your landscape beds after hurricane season.

Another important detail is to remove dead trees and branches. If you are not able to do that yourself, hire an arborist to evaluate the situation and make recommendations. Safety first!

If you have a debris pile, put the yard waste in garbage cans for weekly pickup. Act now so your landscape debris is not at the end of your driveway when high winds arrive. A pile of debris can also end up in the stormwater drain, which can become clogged.

Keep an eye on the water level in your swimming pool. If the water level is above the recommended level, drain water to the recommended level. Be safe!

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Plant City Entertainment will present Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, a sungthrough musical with lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, this July. All shows are presented at Plant City Entertainment’s black box theater, located at 101 N. Thomas Rd. in historic downtown Plant City.

The shows will be ofered on Friday, July 12, 19 and 26, and Saturday, July 13, 20 and 27, at 8 p.m. There will be matinees on Sunday, July 14, 21 and 28, at 2 p.m. Tickets are available online and at the door. Plant City Entertainment will ofer an opening night special of two tickets for $37. General admission tickets are $25. For groups of 10 or more, tickets are $18. For seniors and students, tickets are $20. And for members, tickets are $18.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat will be directed by Lois Green, who said, “I first saw Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat on Broadway in 1982 when I was a senior in high school. I was lucky enough to be cast as an ensemble player and dancer in a community theater production of the show a few years later.”

Green has worked in the theater in different capacities, including acting, choreo-

By Kathy L. Collins

graphing, costuming and directing. She first directed and choreographed Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat 15 years ago.

Green added, “I am happy to be allowed a second opportunity to do the same with Plant City Entertainment. Directing this show again is like becoming reacquainted with an old friend. We have a diverse group of approximately 40 talented people, of all ages, performing on stage, and an experienced tech crew working diligently behind the scenes.”

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is the inspiring story of Joseph, the favorite son of Jacob, from the Old Testament of the Bible. He never loses hope, though he sufers many trials and tribulations before his meteoric rise to become the right hand of the pharaoh of Egypt.

Green said, “My vision for this production is to take the audience into Joseph’s colorful, high-energy and uplifting world where they cannot help but smile. The show is completely sung and incorporates many diferent genres of music and dance. It is family friendly and concludes with a beautiful message of forgiveness and love.”

For more information and to get tickets, please visit www.pceshows.com.

LOCAL MERMAID OFFERS PADI CERTIFIED CLASSES AND PARTY APPEARANCES

There have been mermaid sightings recently in the Valrico area and beyond. Ilona the Mermaid has been seen splashing in local pools, at birthday parties and at pool parties. She has even been seen training local residents to become a mermaid just like her.

By Libby Hopkins

can teach mermaid classes for beginner, advanced and professionals.”

Ilona ofers mermaid parties, performances, birthday parties, themed parties, parade performances and pool parties.

“I just love being in the water,” Ilona said.

“It started when my daughter was 8 years old,” Ilona said. “She, like most girls her age, loved mermaids and wanted to become one. So, I got her a mermaid tail and got myself one as well. We spent a lot of time together in the pool swimming like mermaids.”

About a year ago, Ilona was invited to a Halloween party by a friend who is a scuba instructor.

“They were looking for mermaid performers,” Ilona said. “I was asked to participate, and that’s how it all started. I realized there was a whole nation of mermaids, so I wanted to become a certified mermaid. My friends at Woods & Water Dive Shop in Brandon told me about the various mermaid certification classes offered through the SSI Dive program, so I became a certified PADI Mermaid. I

“It’s something I’ve enjoyed since I was little. I grew up by the North Sea and I was literally in and out of the water the whole time. Every girl dreams of being a mermaid, and I get to be one. It is great exercise and a lot of fun.”

Ilona loves to teach her students as well.

“I love helping my students become mermaids,” Ilona said. “I love seeing them start of a beginner in the swimming pool and then move onto learning to be a mermaid in the ocean. It’s great to help their dreams of being a mermaid come true.”

If you would like to book Ilona for your upcoming event or take mermaid classes from her, visit her Facebook page at www.facebook.com/wishuponashell. You can also email her at wishuponashell@ gmail.com or call her at 813-551-1823.

Plant City Entertainment will present Andrew Lloyd Webber’s smash hit, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, this July at its wonderful theater in charming downtown Plant City. Tis family-friendly show is one you will not want to miss.

Local Mermaid, Ilona has recently been making splashes at local pool and parties. She also teaches local residents how to become mermaids and mermen.

HELPING HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES SUCCESSFULLY NAVIGATE THE COLLEGE SELECTION PROCESS

LeCompte College Prep was founded in 2020 to help high school students and their families successfully navigate the college and career selection process.

“I always loved working with teens in the classroom and helping coach them on their postsecondary career and college goals,” said owner and founder Patty LeCompte.

By Libby Hopkins

GROWING POPULATION CALLS FOR MORE EMERGENCY SERVICES

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

free 30-minute consultation which can be scheduled on her website, www.lecomptecollegeprep.com, or via email at patty@ lecomptecollegeprep. com, as well as a direct call at 813-599-5044.

“Upon my retirement, I couldn’t let that passion fade away. I started small, working with only a handful of virtual clients during the pandemic, and I’m grateful now to have clients from all around Tampa Bay and across the country.”

LeCompte has been a classroom teacher at the high school, community college and university levels. She earned a master’s in educational leadership and is licensed as a high school principal, career and tech/ vocational school director and teacher of multiple subjects.

“I’m a retired high school and college educator with decades of experience working with teens and adults,” LeCompte said. “My journey of teaching students started shortly after my own high school graduation in New York. I was a classroom teacher there and have now long worked with students across state lines in DECA, a high school leadership organization.”

How LeCompte College Prep works is families can meet with LeCompte for a

“Stress in the college admissions process can be relative to how much efort you put in,” LeCompte said. “Your goals need to align with how much time, energy and commitment you put into the process. Our plan is to help you create a realistic and balanced list of best-fit colleges that match you academically, socially and financially. The earlier you start the process, the more aspects we can strategically advise and prepare you for.”

The most gratifying experience for a college consultant is coaching a student and nurturing their growth as they work toward and achieve their goals.

“Having the opportunity to work oneon-one with teens as they navigate these important decisions can be very fulfilling,” LeCompte said. “It’s especially great working with students who start the process in eighth grade, as we can work together on creating a plan for success in high school.”

If you’d like to learn more about LeCompte College Prep or making future college plans, you can visit the website directly at www.lecomptecollegeprep.com.

As Hillsborough County continues to grow, so does the need for development, including things like grocery stores, health care facilities and even emergency services.

Recognizing the rising demand for emergency response, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue (HCFR) has introduced fi ve additional reserve ambulances, each sta f ed with a three-person crew, to operate during peak hours of need. This strategic move aims to enhance response times and ensure the community receives timely medical assistance.

With the rapid population growth, HCFR’s fi rst responders are experiencing increasing strain, often responding to up to 20 medical calls per shift in some of the county’s busiest neighborhoods.

Two-thirds of the ambulances in Hillsborough County are frequently operating at unsustainable levels of utilization, causing delays in response times and making it more challenging to serve the community e f ectively.

“The new peak-hour ambulance initiative already is impacting the communities with the highest daily call volume,” said Robert Herrin, public safety information section chief for Hillsborough County. “The peak ambulances have alleviated the call volume for the primary units in their respective areas, allowing those units to remain available longer in their fi rst alarm districts.”

While HCFR has not yet faced these challenges, the increase in demand causes a risk of fatigue and burnout among the overworked fi rst responders, potentially leading to retention issues within the department. The introduction of additional ambulances serves as a proactive measure to prevent these issues and maintain a high level of service.

“The crews that work these 12-hour shifts at the busiest times of day have reported that the peak-hour shifts are busy with a goal of helping Hillsborough County Fire Rescue shorten response times in some of the busiest communities in the county,” said Herrin.

Using data and analytics, Hillsborough County determined where the extra ambulances could best alleviate the strain on existing crews. Each peak-hour ambulance is assigned a 12-hour shift in the areas with the highest need, with operations having started on May 1.

The implementation of these additional reserve ambulances shows Hillsborough County’s commitment to adapting to its growing population and ensuring the well-being of its residents. By addressing the demands for emergency services, the county is taking important steps to maintain e f cient and e f ective response times in order to protect the health and safety of the community.

LeCompte College Prep was founded in 2020 to help high school students and their families successfully navigate the college and career selection process.

Hillsborough County Fire Rescue is committed to doing what it takes in order to help to community stay safe.

ARTS COUNCIL OF HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY OFFERS GRANT PROGRAM FOR

The Arts Council of Hillsborough County ofers a grant program for individual artists called the Professional Development for Artists Grant. This grant program provides funding support for special projects that advance their career as artists. The grant is open to residents of Hillsborough County.

The grant reimburses the artists for up to $2,000. There are two categories for this grant that artist may apply for. First, artists can apply for educational experience — residency, workshop or conference. The second category is for a permanent piece of equipment, such as a camera, laptop or 3D printer.

The grant funding period for fiscal year 2025 is January 1 to August 15, 2025. This means that, during this time, either the experience must take place or the equipment must be purchased. The grant application opens on Monday, July 8, at 9 a.m. and closes on Friday, July 26, at 5 p.m.

The Professional Development for Artists Grant is a competitive grant which must first meet eligibility, and then it is reviewed and scored by the Arts Council Advisory Board.

Martine Collier, division director for the Arts Council of Hillsborough County, said, “This grant ofers artists the opportunity

COATING

By Kathy L. Collins

to purchase a piece of equipment or an educational experience that can potentially change the trajectory of their career.”

Samson Huang, a grant recipient for fiscal year 2024 who used the funds to help him purchase a MacBook Pro computer, said, “The grant advanced my career by broadening the scope of my artistic practice, resulting in more opportunities for my art to be in shows and competitions. The grant allowed me to purchase a powerful piece of equipment, enabling me to create new bodies of work, such as digital paintings, illustrations as well as animated videos.”

Huang used the equipment to create digital illustrations and designs for several upcoming events, including the Hillsborough Community College Art Galleries’ ‘Now on View’ public art festival, set to take place on Saturday, June 1, in Ybor City.

Huang added, “My efciency and productivity has increased due to the creation of a database for digitally archiving my body of work in large megapixel data format.”

You can review a sample grant application and review the grant guidelines (which includes important eligibility information) by visiting https://hillsborougharts.org/.

HIGH 5 INC. OFFERS SWIM LESSONS AND WATER SAFETY LESSONS

High 5 Inc. is ofering swimming lessons for all ages throughout the summer through group and private lessons and is teaching water safety to families.

High 5 ofers adult swimming lessons, parent and child lessons and its Learn to Swim program for 3-to-17-year-olds. All lessons are half an hour long and have one instructor for every four swimmers.

Sharon Finotti, director of aquatics, said swimming lessons are the first line of defense against youth drowning.

“At High 5, our swimming lessons provide the necessary skills to children and adults so they can be safe while enjoying the water,” Finotti said. “Our highly trained instructors provide a fun, incremental learning environment, which allows for all swimmers to reach their swimming goals.”

Swimming lessons are ofered in the mornings and afternoons and on Saturdays throughout the summer. After completing the lessons, swimmers will be invited to join High 5’s Blue Wave swimming team.

In addition to ofering swimming lessons throughout the summer, High 5 received a Water Warriors grant from the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County.

By Lily Belcher

Through the water safety program, parents and children receive free water safety information.

“The grant is used to teach water safety to both the parent and the child,” Finotti said. “Water safety begins with the parents.”

The Children’s Board awarded the over $96,000 grant to High 5 after seeing how the nonprofit recreation center teaches water safety to parents and children.

The water safety lessons teach parents about safety measures they can take to protect their children around bodies of water and CPR. Children can take eight in-water safety lessons to teach them how to float, breath control, water confidence and how to safely enter and exit a pool.

High 5 also teaches water safety in the evenings and on the weekends for parents who work during the day.

“Drowning is silent and swift,” Finotti said. “It can happen to anyone; however, it is something that can be prevented if protective layers are put in place.”

For more information on High 5 Inc. or to sign up for swimming lessons this summer, visit https://high5inc.org/ or call 813-689-0908.

Samson Huang, a resident of Tampa, is a recipient of a grant from the Arts Council of Hillsborough County. He created this beautiful piece known as Seaside View. As a result of the grant, Huang was able to purchase a MacBook Pro computer, which has advanced his career as an artist.

Swimming lessons are one of the frst lines of defense against childhood drownings.

Celebrating 10 years of music director and maestro Michael Francis’ bold artistic leadership, The Florida Orchestra (TFO) announced the 2024-25 season, full of the world’s great masterpieces, stunning new discoveries and broad programming that reflects the rich cultural landscape of Tampa Bay and beyond. The 57th season is a culmination of what Francis and TFO do best: creative, thoughtful programs that foster a deeper, more personal connection to the music and mission of Florida’s largest professional orchestra.

To open the premier Hough Family Foundation Masterworks in October, Francis uses his inspiration from Tampa Bay’s Latin roots. The innovative, colorful program partners with The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay in unexpected ways, including a fantastic finish with Maurice Ravel’s Boléro

The Masterworks series will emphasize great concertos of the Romantic Period, including Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 with renowned soloist Olga Kern, Felix Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto and Edvard Grieg’s Piano Concerto, alongside epic masterpieces including Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 and Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 3.

For the first time, TFO is going country in the Raymond James Pops series. It opens with Country Hits: Songs from Nashville, a tribute to icons such as Dolly Parton and Garth Brooks. In the special Pops concert Pretty Woman to Hunger Games , famed film composer James Newton Howard himself will conduct some of his most captivating scores.

The reenergized Morning Matinees series is back with a new lead conductor, TFO resident conductor Chelsea Gallo. Also new: Each morning concert will

showcase one of TFO’s remarkable musicians as a soloist.

Season tickets for all subscription series are on sale now at https://florid-

one is carefully curated to tell a story and spark a great conversation. My absolute passion is to help each person connect to the music and, above

Odyssey ), one of the first works Francis ever conducted with TFO. This will be the first time TFO performs the Mahler arrangement of Beethoven’s iconic symphony, a bigger, bolder version of the original. Francis also will conduct Aaron Copland’s Symphony No. 3 (May 9-10, 2025) — the great American symphony — which was part of his first opening night with TFO in 2015.

If you’ve been thinking about life insurance, especially if you have family, loved ones, or anyone who depends on you fnancially, you might be curious about the diferent kinds of policies available. Which type is right for you?

Essentially, you can look at two main categories of life insurance: term and permanent.

Term insurance is a pay-as-you-go option that covers a specifc amount of time, usually 20 years or fewer. Term insurance benefts are paid to your benefciaries free of federal income taxes if you pass away during the coverage period, but there’s no opportunity to build cash value.

Permanent insurance, such as whole life or universal life, ofers coverage for as long as you pay the premiums, and in addition to providing a tax-free death beneft, also ofers a chance to build equity, or cash value, on a tax-deferred basis.

When determining which type of insurance is appropriate for your needs, you’ll want to consider these factors:

• Cost – Term insurance is generally afordable for most people, which is why it may be particularly suitable for parents and young adults who may be at the beginning of their careers. Permanent insurance is typically more expensive, largely because it is meant to last for one’s lifetime and some of the premiums go toward building cash value in the policy and paying for other features. Generally, the younger and healthier you are when you purchase permanent insurance, the lower your rates will be.

• Length of time insurance is needed – If you think you will only need life insurance for a certain period — perhaps until your children are grown — you might lean toward term insurance. If you feel the need for life insurance for other goals throughout your

aorchestra. org/.

Francis is bringing back another creative success for the Masterworks series: ‘mystery pieces.’ Francis has personally chosen all 14 short works, which will enhance and connect to the program in a surprising way. None will be listed ahead of time.

“The new season is filled with incredible variety. We’re proud to work with soloists from the world’s great concert halls as we continue to create spectacular experiences with familiar favorites while introducing new discoveries,” said Francis, who is generously sponsored by the Hough family. “We’ve expanded our Masterworks series to 14 programs. Each

FINANCIAL FOCUS

TERM VS. PERM: WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

lifetime, for whatever reason — you might have a special needs child, or perhaps you want to use your policy to help pay for retirement, or you wish to include the policy as part of your legacy and estate plans — you may want to consider some type of permanent insurance.

• Investment preferences – You may have heard the phrase “buy term and invest the diference.” Essentially, this just means that an investor could purchase low-cost term insurance, and then invest the money that was saved by not getting permanent insurance. This can be a valuable strategy in some situations, but people often don’t actually invest the diference. A permanent insurance policy, through the payment of premiums, may result in a steady buildup of cash value or continued contributions to the policy’s investment components. For many people, this discipline is helpful.

• Future insurability – If you have health issues, it could become difcult to get permanent insurance after you’ve reached the end of a term insurance policy. (Some term insurance policies do ofer the opportunity to convert to permanent coverage, usually without the need for a medical exam.) You could avoid this potential problem by purchasing permanent insurance when you are still young and healthy. Ultimately, you will need to weigh the various factors involved in the permanent-versus-term decision. You also might beneft from consulting a fnancial professional, who can evaluate which type of insurance is most appropriate for your situation. But whether it’s term or permanent, make sure you have the coverage you need to protect yourself and your loved ones.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. April 22, 2024

“It’s amazing to me that we’ve reached my tenth season with The Florida Orchestra. Making music with these musicians has been a true privilege, and I’m proud of our work as a beacon of artistic excellence in Tampa Bay,” said Francis, who signed a contract extension through at least the 2029-30 season.

all, to connect to themselves. Every concert should feel unique and meaningful to your life and your community.”

The Masterworks series re-

flects a decade of Francis’ influence. A centerpiece concert of the season pairs two of the most famous openings in music: Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 (Nov. 1-3) and Richard Strauss’ Also sprach Zarathustra (theme from 2001: A Space

“This season makes a statement about the impact Michael Francis and TFO have made over the past decade,” said President and CEO Ignacio Barrón Viela. “Our audiences have come to expect not only a great performance but a special experience that stays with them long after they leave the concert hall. At The Florida Orchestra, we believe music is a catalyst for beauty, healing, joy and so much more. The Tampa Bay community is such a rich melting pot of cultures, and we are performing a wide variety of music that is accessible to all. Nobody delivers experiences at the highest level like Michael Francis with your Florida Orchestra, both in the concert hall and the community.” Visit https://floridaorchestra.org/ for more information.

IRON ROCK INSURANCE CELEBRATES FOUR YEARS IN BUSINESS

At the core, Iron Rock Insurance is a team of agents specializing in providing quality protection for its clients and their families.

With its coverage, clients can rest assured that their loved ones and their possessions will be kept safe. Iron Rock Insurance ofers a wide range of insurance products and unparalleled customer support when you need it the most. It can provide that extra layer of protection to ease its clients’ minds.

“Iron Rock Insurance began in June 2020 during the middle of the pandemic,” said Iron Rock Insurance managing partner Lisa Hast. “I had worked in another agency for 37 years and I made the decision that I wanted something that was diferent. I wanted something that was mine. I built my way with the technology, processes, carriers and stafng. We have grown from zero to be quite a player in the local insurance independent agencies.”

Hast and her team are excited to be celebrating Iron Rock Insurance’s four-year anniversary.

“It feels absolutely amazing,” Hast said. “We started with zero and a wing and a prayer. Currently, we have 11 employees, four agents, three in training and four customer service reps. When I quit my job, I was 53 years old with no plan B, only plan A, so it had to work.”

Hast is also very proud of Iron Rock Insurance’s CARE program.

By Libby Hopkins

“CARE is creating remarkable experience,” Hast said. “Service is our number one priority. In our world today, it seems no one wants to help get your business handled. Jesse Ackerman and I have built and developed quite the team. We do everything we can to make the insurance process as easy as possible. Insurance is hard right now in Florida, so people really need assistance in navigating the madness of cancellations and rate increases.”

If you ask Hast what makes Iron Rock Insurance diferent from other insurance companies, she will tell you that it’s all about family.

“We are truly a family business,” Hast said. “We have gone from just my daughter and me to adding my husband, Jason Hast, as an agent and my two daughtersin-law, Kate Norberg and Katie Kinder, to agent training. We love helping customers review their coverage, making sure they get the best price but also balancing a review of their coverage and educating them to make sure they understand what they are buying.”

If you would like to learn more about Iron Rock Insurance, you can visit its website at www.ironrockins.com or call for a quote at 813-213-9600. Its ofce is located at 400 Frandorson Circle, Ste. 103 in Apollo Beach.

kids comfort and help them cope when they’re in the hospital. By making a donation during the annual Christmas in July event, you’ll be a bright light for children like Salvatore during what can be an overwhelming time in their lives.

a child today: StJosephsChristmas.org

Presented

Iron Rock Insurance began in June 2020 during the middle of the pandemic.

WAWA INVITES FAMILIES TO INDULGE IN SUMMER FUN AT BOK

Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales invites the surrounding communities to participate in its garden summer fun hosted by Wawa. Admission into Bok Tower Gardens is free on the last Thursday and Friday of each month from now through August.

TOWER GARDENS

The Wawa corporation ofers Wawa Summer Fun Days as part of its mission to be a great community partner. Wawa’s generosity covers the admissions bill for the designated summer days, keeping the Bok Tower Gardens in bloom. Bok Tower Gardens hosts special summer activities for families to enjoy as they roam through the gardens. The Where’s Wally Seek and Find Scavenger Hunt is a unique way for families to explore while indulging in friendly competition.

There are 10 Wallys, Wawa’s goose mascot, hidden throughout the gardens. After finding each Wally, participants get a surprise reward from Wawa. The Bok Tower Gardens visitor center provides maps of the garden and instructions for participation.

Although there are plenty of free admission days left in the summer, Bok Tower Gardens is open for normal admission daily from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. The adult general admission is $20; child admission ranges from $10-$5, depending on age; and dogs are also welcome for $10.

By Sara Kitchin

This general admission still allows for families to explore natural beauty and listen to the chimes of the Singing Tower.

“We are in summer bloom,” said the director of business development and marketing, Erica Smith. “What you’ll find in our gardens is some beautiful displays of native, gorgeous Florida wildflowers. So, I really encourage the plant lovers to enjoy a day surrounded by native plants.”

Bok Tower Gardens is a public garden with 50 acres of manicured cultured gardens that are surrounded by 200 acres of preserved land. This expanse allows for a getaway to reconnect with nature and gain knowledge on native Florida blooms.

Other activities include the Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden, the chimes of the famous Singing Tower and scheduled carillon concerts. Annual memberships to visit the gardens often for classes and activities are ofered at Bok Tower Gardens and on its website.

Bok Tower Gardens is located at 1151 Tower Blvd. in Lake Wales. Visit https:// boktowergardens.org/wawa-summerfun-days-2024/ to register for upcoming June Summer Fun Days on Thursday, June 27 and Friday, June 28, or visit https:// boktowergardens.org/ for information on events and memberships.

July 13-14, 2024 9AM-5PM

Over 130 Exhibit Booths and Vendors! Fun For the Whole Family!

Guest Appearances Include:

• Richard Dreyfus

• Jeffrey Kramer

• Gigi Vorgan

• Gary Springer

Exhibits and Interactions From:

• Sharks4Kids

• ZooTampa

• Mote Marine Aquarium and Laboratory

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Delight in the chimes of the Singing Tower, located in the center of the gardens.