Osprey Observer Brandon/Winthrop November 2023

Brandon/Winthrop

41

November 2023

Volume 18, Issue 11

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CELEBRATING 21 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS

OSPREY OBSERVER EDITOR NOW BRANDON HIGH RECOGNIZES 14 ON MENU WITH SPECIAL BURGER FALLEN GRADUATES AT WAR AT FORD’S GARAGE BRANDON MEMORIAL DEDICATION Staff Report

Community leaders and local chambers gather for the launch of the Marie Gilmore, Osprey Observer Editor - BBQ Brisket Burger at Ford’s Garage Brandon.

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Ford’s Garage, an all-American, service-station-inspired gastro pub has a new burger on its menu named for Marie Gilmore, editor and publisher of the Osprey Observer Newspapers.

The BBQ brisket burger is now a member of the Burgers of Fame menu which names burgers after community leaders, including Tampa Sheriff Chad Chronister, Mayor Jane Castor and more.

Gilmore was honored with the naming, which includes her name on the Burgers of Fame menu boards throughout the restaurant and on every menu.

“This is such a huge honor,” said Gilmore during a launch event at the restaurant with local chambers of commerce, honorary mayors and dignitaries. “I am so proud to have been considered for such a distinct honor and to join the ranks of some amazing community leaders.”

General manager Bryan Saunders, who has been a reader of the Osprey Observerfor more than 18 years, said, “When Osprey team member Kerrie Hoening brought up the idea of Marie as a Burger of Fame member, we thought it was a great idea. This program is our opportunity to honor community leaders.”

Founded in 2012, the original Ford’s Garage opened in Fort Myers, less than

a mile from Henry Ford’s winter home.

Today, as an official licensee of the Ford Motor Company, the restaurant pays tribute to America’s most iconic automobile brand by offering a truly historic dining experience — right down to nostalgic auto shop uniforms and the hand-hammered copper bar top at each of its locations.

The Marie Gilmore, Osprey Observer Editor - BBQ Briskey Burger is a Black Angus burger with Tillamook® aged sharp cheddar cheese, bourbon barbecue sauce, hickory smoked brisket, applewood smoked bacon, red onions and crispy onion straws on a brioche bun.

Based in Tampa, Ford’s Garage currently has locations in Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and Texas.

Ford’s Garage’s sister restaurants include Yeoman’s Topgolf Swing Suite, Tiki Docks, Don the Beachcomber, The Firestone, Capone’s Coal Fired Pizza, Cabos Cantina, The Lodge, the Boathouse Tiki Bar & Grill, Downtown Social House, Izzy’s Fish & Oyster, all located in Florida.

Ford’s Garage Brandon is located in the Lake Brandon Plaza at 11105 Causeway Blvd. in Brandon. For more information, visit https://fordsgarageusa.com/ or www.23restaurants.com/company.

REMEMBER TO SHOP LOCAL SUPPORT OUR SMALL BUSINESSES

Welcome to our annual holiday edition. This year, more than ever, our locally-owned small businesses need our support. Throughout this edition our advertisers have been getting into the holiday spirit and we are launching our annual Shop Local Holiday Sweepstakes! Enter online at www.ospreyobserver. com or mail in the entry form on page 39. Early Bird prizes include gorgeous jewelry from McAuley Fine Jewelry, a set of 4 tires from Express Oil & Tire Engineers of Riverview and a fishing charter from True Lies Fishing Charters.

By Linda Chion

Fourteen Brandon gotten off the ground High School graduates without [Sparano’s] have been immortalsupport.” ized in a war memorial Also in the auditoat their alma mater, in rium were family and tribute to their ultimate friends of many of the sacrifice on battlefields fallen soldiers, whose far from home. names are etched in Brandon High School alumni (left to Nine of ‘the 14 fallbronze on the white right) Donald Gunn (Class of ’48) James en’ soldiers recognized memorial wall. Also Powell and his mother, Helen Mulrennan at the memorial dedposted are a largeYoung (’42), with past Brandon High ication ceremony on principals (right to left) Denny Oest, Jen- scale bronze eagle (the November 2 fought in nifer Sparano and Leslie Granich. Current school’s mascot) and World War II. Four of a 1960 bronze plaque Principal Jeremy Klein sports a bow tie. the soldiers fought in Vietnam, 1965-70. The taken from the 1914 Brandon school, now youngest of the 14 honorees, Richard Batson, McLane. It reads in part, “As the eagle soars 18, graduated in 1943 and died in the Sep- to greatness, near its wings we fly.” tember 1944 invasion of the island of Peleliu.

Recognized World War II soldiers include The oldest of the 14 slain soldiers, Kevin Grant Chadwell (’35), who died at age 26 in Smith, 28, graduated in 1995 and died on 1943; Ronald Morris (’38), age 22, 1942; Ray December 8, 2005, leading a convoy of vehi- Simmons (’39), age 23, 1945; George Dukes cles near the Tigris River to repair an electric (’40), age 22, 1944; Charles Ragsdale (’42), tower in Baghdad. He is the sole soldier to age 19, 1943; Bert Sauls (’42), age 19, 1943; be recognized for service in Operation Iraqi Donald Trout (’43), age 20, 1945; and Darrell Freedom, and the only soldier to have attend- Whidden (’43), age 19, 1945. ed Brandon High on Victoria Street, which Honored for paying the ultimate sacrifice opened in 1972. The original Brandon school, in Vietnam are 21-year-olds Daniel Abney built in 1914, is where McLane Middle School (’65), who died in 1969; Thomas Harris (’66), operates today. It’s slated to close at the end in 1968; and Roger Langford (’66), in 1969. of the school year.

Charles Anthony Connell (’68) died in 1970 Brandon High graduate Lt. Col. Donald at age 19.

Gunn (Class of ’86), a 24-year U.S. Army vetChadwell Supply, which built the memorieran and the school’s senior U.S. Army JROTC al wall and attached sidewalks, and assisted instructor, researched for seven years the in the installation of the large, bronze eagle, fallen soldiers’ backgrounds, which he read in was a major memorial contributor, along part in the school auditorium. Gunn fought in with Brandon Elks Lodge #2383. Additional Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi funding came from the Brandon High Alumni Freedom. His father, Donald Gunn (’48), sat Association, the Brandon High Army JROTC in the first row next to centenarian Helen Battalion, the Hillsborough County Veterans Mulrennan Young (’42).

Council and the Marine Corps League.

As the younger Gunn noted, “they are Visit Brandon High at 1101 Victoria St. in among our last links to our World War II Brandon and online at www.hillsboroughcasualties, remembering them as students schools.org/brandon. Call 813-744-8120. before they left for the war.”

Also at the dedication ceremony were Brandon band and JROTC participants, students and alumni, as well as Principal Jeremy LADIES CHRISTMAS COFFEE PG 3 Klein and three of his predecessors, Denny REGISTER TO VOTE ..........................PG 7 Oest, Leslie Granich and Jennifer Sparano. FAMILY TRADITIONS ....................PG 11 The younger Gunn said past Principal Orlan EYE ON BUSINESS................PGS 25-26 Briant sent his regards and that the memorial in its planning stages “would have never HIKING SPREE .................................PG 30

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 11

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

November 2023

WITH A COMBINED 91 YEARS OF HOSPITAL SERVICE, DUO RETIRES FROM HCA FLORIDA BRANDON HOSPITAL Staff Report Sharon Thacker and type something up.

Karen Crouch have He takes me down to been completing each administration and other’s sentences for provides me with a 45 years of working typewriter. This is betogether at HCA Florfore computers. You ida Brandon Hospital. had to count spaces Although Thacker edgto get things even and es out Crouch with one center things. I made additional year of serhim this form, and he vice (46 years), they liked it,” said Crouch. have been called ‘The A month and a half Twins’ and, by some, later, he asked ThackSharon Thacker and Karen Crouch are ‘The Queens’ due to er if she thought retiring from HCA Florida Brandon their long reign. More Hospital after dedicated careers spanning Crouch would be inalmost 50 years each. specifically, Thacker is terested in a job. the Queen of Chargemaster and Crouch is “He interviewed me in the cafeteria. I the Queen of Fixed Assets. was a flunky for a while. I ended up beThacker’s Story Starts on June 13, ing his secretary. I would do what needed 1977 to be done. I was an executive secretary, “I saw in the Brandon News newspa- payroll clerk, accountant and now I am per that Brandon Hospital was starting working in fixed assets,” said Crouch. to interview for jobs. Karen and I were Thacker and Crouch’s starting pay was taking a two-hour class preparing to work less than $3 an hour in 1977. in a business office in high school. On my Thacker and Crouch chatted back and resume, I included in junior high that I forth but agreed, “We love the community had worked the switchboard in the main and knew there was always a job for us. office, a pull-out and plug-in system. Be- We always worked with good people. Our cause I had that on my resume, I got the bosses cared about us as individuals and job. I started out on a switchboard with a gave us new opportunities for advancepush button console, working the second ment before we asked for a promotion. shift from 3:30-11 p.m. I moved on to a They saw our potential to do more. We file clerk position and worked weekends have enjoyed working here.” because there was so much filing. Karen In closing, the twins’ retirement stats was waiting for me to go to lunch one are impressive after four decades at HCA weekend and that was how she landed her Florida Brandon Hospital: 91 years, 33,306 job,” said Thacker. days, 189,280 hours.

Crouch’s Story Starts On October 30, The hospital is located at 119 Oakfield 1978 Dr. in Brandon. For more information, visit “The CFO comes out and asks if I can www.hcafloridabrandonhospital.com.

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Page 3

ANGEL FOUNDATION FL HOSTS SECOND ANNUAL LADIES CHRISTMAS COFFEE

By Kelly Wise Valdes

The Angel people and Foundation FL raised $5,637. is a local nonThis year’s profit organizaevent is protion that was jected to have formed in 2003 more than 200 and partners people in attenwith local busidance. nesses and comEvent chairmunity memman Lisa bers to provide Wheeler is exThe Angel Foundation FL is hosting its second annual resources for Ladies Christmas Coffee event on Thursday, December 14 cited about this families exyear’s Ladies from 7-9 p.m. at The Regent. periencing a Christmas Coflife-threatening illness or fee. catastrophic event.

“My favorite part As part of its fundof the event is getting raising efforts, the Angel dressed up in ChristFoundation FL invites the women of the mas classic and seeing the excitement community to attend its second annu- on the ladies’ faces as they learn about al Ladies Christmas Coffee. During this what we do and how they can help,” said event, the Angel Foundation FL will collect Wheeler. “Plus, it’s really cool to see the gift cards to help Angel families through- husbands, brothers and sons volunteering out the year. as our coffee servers.”

Each table at the event will have a table The Christmas Coffee is taking place on hostess who can decorate their table with Thursday, December 14 from 7-9 p.m. at a theme of their choice. The cost is $25 The Regent located at 6437 Watson Rd. which includes finger sandwiches, fruit, in Riverview. Some of the sponsors of this desserts, coffee and tea. Hostesses are year’s event are Churchill Mortgage, The able to invite seven of their friends whose Regent, Landscape Lighting Repair, Red admittance is a $25 Walmart, Target, gro- Scorpion Fabworks & Offroad, Regalitea cery store or Visa gift card. and Brandon Equine Medical Center.

Guests will enjoy a wonderful evening If you would like to be a table hostess, to celebrate the holiday season with en- attend as a guest, donate an item for the tertainment, a silent auction and a presen- raffle or silent auction or become a busitation by Junior Angels, and they will hear ness sponsor, please contact Wheeler at inspiring testimonies from Angel families 813-967-3694, email lisa@lisa-wheeler. who have been served by the Foundation net, call the Foundation office at 813-689Angel program.

6889. For more information visit https:// Last year’s event was attended by 138 angelfoundationfl.com/.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 11

MOBILE SHOWER OUTREACH STUDENTS LEARN AND ENGAGE

LAUNCHES IN HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY

AT LOCAL YMCA

By Kelly Wise Valdes

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

Although taking a hot working to add additional shower and doing laundry locations as well.” is a common occurrence Ultimately, ShowerUp for most people, there is a will establish full-time rising homeless population operations in Tampa Bay in Hillsborough County and hopefully purchase a that doesn’t have that opnew mobile unit that will tion. Fortunately, there is a have showers and a mosolution. Paul Schmitz and bile laundry.

ShowerUp is a mobile shower his wife, Rhonda Schmitz, outreach that has recently launched “Our costs to purchase in Tampa. launched ShowerUp in the equipment and opthe Nashville area in erate for the whole first 2016, and it is available loyear full time is $228,000,” cally. ShowerUp is a mobile said Paul. “Until we reach outreach that provides hot that goal, we have been able showers and laundry services to start part-time operations to people in need. In most cities, there are with a mobile shower unit that we had been resources for those experiencing homeless- using in one of our other cities. It doesn’t ness to receive meals, clothing and other have mobile laundry, but it does have three necessities, but the Schmitz family realized private shower suites, air conditioning and that there are very few places to get a hot unlimited hot water.” shower and take care of basic hygiene.

ShowerUp has raised 30 percent toward “Like most of the cities that we launch in, its full-time goal. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, it we were invited to come to Tampa Bay by relies on individuals, families, churches, busisomeone who has seen the need and reached nesses and local foundations for support. out to us,” said Paul. “Tampa Bay is a similar “We are looking for collaborative partners size to our first city, Nashville. There’s also a who we can come alongside,” said Paul. “We sizable number of people who are experienc- love to team up with other groups and noning homelessness and who don’t have access profits who are doing amazing things like to a shower on a regular basis.” providing meals, clothing, haircuts, etc. One ShowerUp held two events last month of the things that we love is involve as many where it provided 30 showers and supplied people as we can in our outreach. Whether toiletries, hygiene and other needed items. it’s through financial support, volunteering, “Sometimes, the biggest need is just for taking care of needs on our Amazon Wish friendship, relationship and community,” List or building shower kits for us, we love to said Paul. work with the community.”

Because ShowerUp is mobile, it is able Donations can be made at https:// to go to multiple locations throughout the showerup.org/ and can be designated for course of a week. The goal is to establish a ShowerUp Tampa Bay. The shower location regular schedule with multiple locations. schedule can also be found on the website.

“As of right now, we have locations set Follow ShowerUp on Facebook at ShowerUp up at Bread of Refuge in Brandon and with Tampa Bay and Instagram @showeruptamFeeding Tampa Bay,” said Paul. “We are pabay.

The North Brancoding class, the Jr. don Family YMCA Developer program, has recently added where students two new events to who have preexits calendar: coding isting knowledge programs and Fortabout coding or nite Fridays. These have taken the beinitiatives offer ginners class at the unique opportuniY are offered more ties for skill develadvanced lessons. opment and peer Kids are loving Fortnite Fridays and parents love The program ofgiving their children a safe place to play with engagement. fers three package their friends and meet new kids.

The YMCA is exoptions: Monday/ cited to support the Thursday, Wednesunderstanding of coding day/Saturday or a twoconcepts at a young age. hour Saturday class.

The coding program The sessions are $150 aims to equip children for YMCA members ages 6-17 with these and $210 for nonmemcrucial skills, providing bers. knowledge that sets While a YMCA memthem apart in a technolbership is not mandatoogy-driven world. ry for enrollment of the “In today’s society, we use technology for coding classes, members do get benefits everything, and for a child to say they know like discounts and access to the rest of the the concepts of coding at a young age is ex- YMCA’s amenities. traordinary,” said Maya Sisarran, associate The second new program, Fortnite Friprogram director. “They can use these skills days, offers a fun and competitive gaming they learned here and apply it to their de- experience for children ages 7-17. Fortnite cision-making of what they would like their Fridays are on the first and third Friday of career to be as well as having knowledge of each month from 6-8 p.m. and give kids something that a lot of people do not know the opportunity to engage in a safe and about.” regulated environment for gaming comThe coding program is facilitated by Es- petitions. Classes cost $20 per night, and ports Players and Coding Club, which has children have the chance to win Fortnite donated the technology to the YMCA for V-Bucks each night. the classes. Using popular software, stuThe North Brandon Family YMCA’s new dents get to be a part of an engaging cur- programs provide a unique avenue for child riculum that utilizes games like Roblox and development, combining education and fun Minecraft. In the class, students will create in an inclusive and supportive environment. their own mini worlds similar to the games For more information, visit www.tampaythey love to play. mca.org/programs/children-teens/computThe YMCA also offers an intermediate er-coding.

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November 2023

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TAMPA BAY’S FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS ILLUMINATES SANTA’S ENCHANTING VILLAGE Staff Report The magic is back! ber 10 through Sunday, Tampa Bay’s Festival of December 17) and DenLights and Santa’s Vilnis Lee (Friday and Satlage returns to the urday, December 15-16), Hillsborough County providing a toe-tapping Fairgrounds, and it’s bigbackdrop to Santa’s Vilger and brighter than lage activities. ever. With an extended Making a grand en2-mile drive-through extrance this year are perience and the introdynamic dancers from duction of a convenient We Are Amplify! of the season pass, families can Florida Academy of Perimmerse themselves in forming Arts and Music their Hometown Holiday Showcase (WednesFestival from Thanks- Guests can bring their well-behaved, day, December 20) and giving Day through New leashed dogs and cats for a visit and Dancing for Donations photo op with Santa on Thursday, Year’s Eve. (Thursday, November December 14 for a $10 donation Enveloping guests 30 and Thursday, Deto the Hillsborough County Pet in more than 1 million cember 21).

Kicking Resource Center. lights, Tampa Bay’s Fesoff December, Laura tival of Lights and SanJerkiewicz swings high ta’s Village brings back above the stage in her favorites such as the mesmerizing Aerial Holfearless Pirates of Tamiday Show (Friday to pa guarding the entry to Sunday, December 1-3). the 110 ft. drive-through The Hillsborough animated tunnel. A new County Fairgrounds section takes drivers on a dip ‘Under the continues its support of members of the Sea,’ sparkling with blue lights and popu- military, veterans and first responders lated with playful aquatic creatures. with $10 off each ticket with valid ID Santa’s Village is packed with tasty for Heroes Night on Thursday, December treats and activities, including holi- 7 from 6-9 p.m. Members of the military, day-themed rides, the bustling holiday veterans and first responders also receive market and the Hometown Hillsborough $5 off tickets for any night of the event Historical Village. Visits with Santa, San- with valid ID. ta’s Workshop with craft stations, Santa’s The Hillsborough County Fair 2023 Barnyard, camel rides, holiday movies and Harvest Queen Court hosts Paws & Claus live entertainment promise endless fun for Night on Thursday, December 14 from 6-9 the entire family. p.m. to benefit the Hillsborough County For the first time, live entertainment Pet Resource Center. Guests can bring will be presented every weekend of the their well-behaved, leashed dogs and cats festival. New to this year’s stage are musi- for a visit and photo op with Santa for a cal artists Jordan Denise Williams (Friday $10 donation. and Saturday, December 22-23), a fourSanta’s Village is open Thursday to Suntime ‘Best of the Bay’ winner for Best Pop day, November 23-26; Thursday, NovemAct and Best Dancer, and Big Time Juke- ber 30 to Sunday, December 3; Thursday box (Thursday, December 7 and 14 and to Sunday, December 7-10; and Thursday, Monday, December 18), a five-piece band December 14 to Monday, December 25. performing popular dance hits spanning All other dates are drive-through only. the generations. They join favorites Katie Visit https://hillsboroughcountyfair.com/ Lombardo (Friday and Saturday, Decem- tampa-bay-festival-of-lights/ for tickets, a ber 8-9), Aimee Carter (Sunday, Decem- calendar and event information.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

BOARD APPOINTS VAN AYRES AS SUPERINTENDENT OF COUNTY SCHOOLS

Staff Report

In a unanimous vote, the school board appointed Van Ayres as Hillsborough County Public Schools superintendent.

Ayres’ contract is for a fouryear period, providing stability and clarity for the district’s leadership into the future.

Ayres’ priorities for the school district include early childhood and literacy, graduation rates, strong organizational culture and fiscal and operational responsibility.

Since taking over the helm as interim superintendent just four months ago, Ayres has focused on creating a supportive organizational culture. He also oversaw the successful opening of the 2023-24 school year with great enthusiasm and excitement from staff, students, parents and community partners.

In addition, Ayres championed efforts to negotiate salary increases and employee contracts much sooner than in years past for teachers, education support professionals, administrators and all support staff in the areas of transportation, school security, student nutrition, maintenance and custodial services.

He coordinated the opening of 10 schools as storm shelters with Hillsborough County Emergency Management officials to help community members evacuate from the potential impact of Hurricane Idalia.

Upon his appointment as interim superintendent, Ayres selected the most culturally diverse executive team in district history — individuals who have a track record for student succes..

“I am honored to be named superintendent of Hillsborough County Public Schools.

I look back fondly on my days in West Tampa as a Little League baseball player;

up through my time at Jefferson High School, both as a student and the principal; and now as the leader of this great school district.

Today’s appointment is not just about me; it is about the 24,000 employees in this district who come to work every day with one goal in mind — to give our students every educational opportunity to succeed in school and ultimately in life,” said Ayres.

Ayres was born and raised in Tampa. He graduated from Jefferson High School in 1992. After receiving his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of Tampa, he began teaching science at Blake High School in 1997.

In 2003, Ayres was selected to become assistant principal for student affairs and later assistant principal of curriculum at Blake High School.

In 2012, Ayres returned to his alma mater and was appointed principal at Jefferson High School. Three years later, he was promoted to deputy superintendent where he spearheaded the work to improve the district’s graduation rate — which increased 12.2 points over a five-year period.

Ayres credits his parents for his love of education. His father and mother were both teachers in Hillsborough County Public Schools. His father, Van, taught at Leto High School for 33 years. His mother, Nuri Ayres, spent 35 years in Hillsborough County Public Schools as a math teacher at Webb Middle School and Jefferson High School and then a principal at both King and Sickles high schools. Ayres’ two children both graduated from Hillsborough County Public Schools, from Blake and Robinson high schools.

11/30/2023 9/30/2023

11/30/2023 9/30/2023

Volume 18, Issue 11

PLENTY OF MAGNET AND SCHOOL CHOICE OPTIONS FOR HILLSBOROUGH STUDENTS

By Brad Stager

Neighborhood programs, families schools and their athave opportunities tendance zones are to learn more about considerations for the educational posmany families maksibilities beyond their ing decisions such as neighborhood. where to live, or for “The most importstudents figuring out ant thing that we how to achieve their Students at magnet schools learn through want our families to programs ranging from the performing academic and career know about these arts to science and technology. goals.

Magnet next few months in programs and oththe world of Mager school choice net Schools is that options that offer there are a multiattendance and tude of events on subject matter the district and the flexibility are available, and the time to school levels for them to attend should they exercise a choice for the 2024-25 school want to learn more about our award-winyear is now. ning programs and how to attend them in The application window for magnet and 2024-2025,” he wrote in an email. school choice options runs now through Among the upcoming events are a MagFriday, December 15. net & CTE Expo at ZooTampa from 3-7 p.m.

Hillsborough County Public Schools of- on Wednesday, November 8, and an openfers magnet programs focusing on subject house type event at Spoto High School in areas ranging from performing arts, such Riverview on Thursday, November 30 from as dance, to a variety of science and tech- 6-7:30 p.m. There are also online opportunology fields, such as robotics, as well as nities to learn about school options on the general academics. district’s website at www.hillsboroughNonmagnet options include what is re- schools.org. ferred to as ‘school choice,’ which includes Cox added that applications are selectschool selection based on location as well ed via a computerized lottery system so as student interests and hardship consid- families and students can take their time erations. School choice options include in applying before the deadline. learning online via Hillsborough Virtual “In the end, we work hard to make sure School (HVK12). The opportunity to learn that ALL students in Hillsborough County in-demand skills, ranging from agriculture Public Schools and beyond have access and to information technology, through career opportunity to attend one of our nationally and technical education (CTE) programs known Magnet Schools!” he wrote. can also be selected.

Families will be notified in January 2024 According to Robert Cox, the school dis- about a final determination regarding their trict’s supervisor of magnet schools and applications.

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

November 2023

VOTE HILLSBOROUGH HOSTS ART CONTEST FOR ‘I VOTED’ STICKER AND REGISTRATION DRIVE FOR STUDENTS

Staff Report

The Hillsborough Artwork subCounty supervisor of missions must be elections is challengtwo-dimensional, 6 ing students once in. by 6 in. and round. again to design a new Keep in mind that ‘I Voted’ sticker for the winning artwork Hillsborough County must remain clear voters. and impactful when Finalists will be reduced to a 2 in. by recognized at a 2 in. size for stickschool board meeter printing. The art ing and receive prizmust be nonpartisan es from the contest and may not promote sponsors: the Tampa any party, candidate Bay Lightning, Tampa or issue. Do not use Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer and Bay Buccaneers and only red or only blue his office are seeking submissions for the Busch Gardens. The annual student ‘I Voted’ sticker contest for in the design. All artart will also be feaworks must be origHillsborough County voters. tured on social media inal and not contain channels, in displays any copyrighted imat offices and in other ages. Hard copy or outreach efforts conhigh-resolution PDFs ducted by the Hillsborare accepted. ough County Supervisor Visit www.voteof Elections Office. hillsborough.gov/vhcontests to read all “Our voters LOVE getting their ‘I Vot- of the details as well as download and ed’ sticker and I know they’ll be espe- complete the required entry packet. The cially excited to get a unique sticker de- contest deadline is March 8, 2024. Subsigned by one of our talented high school missions can be mailed, emailed or destudents,” said Supervisor of Elections livered in person to any of the five elecCraig Latimer. tions offices.

The first-place winning design will be Also of note, during the fall and spring reproduced as 2 in. by 2 in. round stick- semesters, the Hillsborough County Suers and given to voters who vote early or pervisor of Elections Office will conduct drop off their mail ballot during the two voter registration drives in high schools weeks leading up to Election Day for the across the county. The three schools 2024 primary and general elections. with the most successful voter registraThree finalists will be selected, and tion drives (based on the percentage of one will be named the grand prize win- senior class) will receive a plaque and be ner. All of the finalists will be recognized recognized in front of the school board. at a school board meeting and receive Winners of both contests will be anprizes from the contest sponsors. nounced in mid-April 2024.

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Page 7

STATE LAW REQUIRES NEW VOTE BY MAIL REGISTRATION

By Kathy L. Collins

The presLatimidential er added, election is “We have in Novembeen workber 2024. ing hard to The Florida make sure primary is voters know on March about the 19, 2024. change in Fo l l ow i n g the law by Voting is a right which carries responsibilities. Be an informed the 2020 member of the electorate and know your rights. If you want to sharing the election, the cast a ballot using the Vote By Mail process, you must request information Florida State through this option after every general election Legislature made changes to election email, mailings, newsletters, social melaws including ones that recently went dia and local presentations. Please help into effect this year. One that will have me spread the word so that voters who effect a wide range of Floridians deals like to vote by mail will not miss out in with the right to cast a ballot by mail. 2024.”

If you wish to vote by mail, the ‘Vote The Supervisor of Elections Office

By Mail’ ballot requests now expire af- has also added a new Vote By Mail noter every general election. If you want tification system called BallotTrax. The to receive Vote By Mail ballots for the office uses BallotTrax to send you email 2024 elections, you must submit a new notifications when your requested Vote request. The quickest way to make By Mail ballot is mailed out and it rethat request is to use the Supervisor of ceives your voted ballot back. If you Elections Office’s online request form visit the BallotTrax enrollment website, by visiting www.votehillsborough.gov/ you can also add text or phone notifivotebymail or call 813-744-5900. cations and specify your preferred lanYou will be asked to provide either guage and contact hours. If you do not your Florida driver’s license, ID number wish to receive automatic email notifior the last four digits of your social se- cations, it is easy to opt out. curity number to verify your identity.

One thing to keep in mind about the Hillsborough County Supervisor of upcoming elections is dates. You must Elections Craig Latimer said, “If you be registered to vote in the March prilike to vote by mail and you have not mary by February 20, 2024. And rerequested your mail ballots for 2024, I member, Florida is a closed primary urge you to visit votehillsborough.gov state, which means you must be regisand submit your new request right now tered with a party to vote in the primawhile you are thinking about it. You ry. Once registered, you must request can also call my office during business your Vote By Mail ballot by 5 p.m. on hours and we can process your request the 12th day before the election. right over the phone. It only takes a For more information, please visit few minutes.” voter@votehillsborough.gov.

Page 8

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 11

CROSS BAY FERRY BEGINS SEVENTH SEASON STOP-ARM ENFORCEMENT CAMERAS HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS BUS FLEET GETTING

By Superintendent Van Ayres

Every day, 90,000 Hillper day. This is unacceptsborough County Public able. The issue is that law Schools students rely on our enforcement can’t be evschool buses to get them erywhere, so it can be a safely to and from school. I challenge to catch drivers am proud to announce that illegally passing stopped our school district is partbuses. We intend to change nering with BusPatrol and that by putting cameras the Hillsborough County on every single one of our Sheriff’s Office to establish buses, ensuring that every the first-in-the-state school child, without exception, is bus camera safety program. protected during their daily

Last month kicked off the commute.

installation of this stateThe program will be

of-the-art camera technolpreceded by an extensive 6 !YRE ogy on our 1,100 30-day public school buses. The awareness camcameras will cappaign beginning ture a photo and in January 2024 video of vehicles to ensure that evif drivers illegally eryone is aware of pass school busthe changes in enes when the stop forcement. Beginarm is extended ning in February and lights are 2024, the proflashing. gram will go into Senate Bill 766 effect. The Hills— Enforcement borough County of School Bus Passing Infractions was Sheriff’s Office will certify each violation introduced by Senator Danny Burgess in before sending a citation out. A $200 cithe 2023 legislative session and signed tation would then be sent to whomever into law on May 31. This new law allows the vehicle is registered. school districts to install infraction detecOur focus here is not on ticketing drivtion systems on school buses. The system ers, but it’s to send a message to all drivwill take images of the license plate, doc- ers that when you see a school bus, slow umenting when a vehicle violates the law. down and do not pass when the stop arm The cameras cannot be used for any other is extended and the red lights are flashpurposes. ing.

Recent studies of illegal passing in our We want parents to have peace of mind, state revealed that school buses are il- knowing their children are safe on their legally passed over three times per bus daily drive to and from school on the bus.

By Kathy L. Collins

The Cross Bay can catch it in Ferry, which Tampa at 11:30 connects downa.m., 3 p.m., 6:15 town Tampa and p.m. and 11 p.m.; downtown St. in St. PetersPetersburg, has burg, the times begun its seventh are 10 a.m., 1:30 season. The ferry p.m., 4:45 p.m. began running on and 9:45 p.m. On October 15 and Sundays, you can will run through get it in Tampa at June 2024. This 11:30 a.m., 3 p.m. is part of a longand 6:15 p.m.; in term plan to run St. Petersburg, the ferry year- The Cross Bay Ferry, a twin-hull catamaran, began the times are 10 round and ex- its seventh season on October 15. The ferry will run a.m., 1:30 p.m. between downtown Tampa and downtown St. pand. and 4:45 p.m.

Petersburg through June 2024.

The Cross Bay When the Ferry offers residents and visitors alike Tampa Bay Lightning are playing at a unique and enjoyable way to travel home, there will be service on Mondays between the two Tampa Bay downtown and Tuesdays following the Wednesday areas of Tampa and St. Petersburg. It is and Thursday schedules. also a great way to avoid the congested The twin-hull catamaran vessel can roadways and enjoy not only the local carry a maximum of 149 guests, who attractions but Tampa Bay itself. can bring a bike, up to two pieces of Tickets for the Cross Bay Ferry are luggage and one small personal item on $12 one way for adults and $10 one way board for no additional charge. for children. The ferry is free for children Residents have embraced the fer4 years old and younger. ry service since its inception. The new You can board the Cross Bay Ferry in landing location at Port St. Pete is in the downtown Tampa at the Tampa Conven- heart of the Innovation District and will tion Center, located at 333 S. Franklin offer ferry riders increased parking and St. in St. Petersburg. In St. Petersburg, access to some of St. Petersburg’s most the ferry has a new dock located at 250 exciting destinations.

8th Ave. SE (just south of Albert WhitKatie Collins of Valrico said, “I cannot ted Airport). wait to try the Cross Bay Ferry. I can The Cross Bay Ferry will run Wednes- meet up with friends who live in St. Pete day through Sunday. On Wednesdays and enjoy the Saturday farmers market and Thursdays, you can catch the ferry in and all of the great museums and restauTampa at 6:15 p.m. and 10:45 p.m.; in St. rants located along the bay in St. Pete.”

Petersburg, the times are 4:45 p.m. and For more information, please visit 9:30 p.m. On Friday and Saturday, you www.thecrossbayferry.com.

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Page 9

EAGLE SCOUT LEADS HELPING HANDS CHRISTMAS TOWN AT BUSCH GARDENS: THE BIGGEST AND BRIGHTEST HOLIDAY TO VETERAN-OWNED PRESCHOOL

By Kayleigh Jones A great deal of time He spent a number and effort is required of days on the projto grow into a Boy ect site preparing for Scout. Dominic Ottl, a the completion day, local Scout, is one step October 28, on which closer to reaching the Ottl was astonished pinnacle of Boy Scout by an abundance of success. Ottl succeedvolunteers spanning ed in completing his Dominic Ottl, fellow members of Troop 610 45 persons. The most and volunteers on the day of the compleEagle Scout project difficult yet rewardtion event. in late October, and ing component of this with his remarkable style undertaking, according to for design, Dominic assistOttl, was “preparing the ed in enhancing a local preentire time.” To ensure the school through landscapproject’s success, Ottl had ing, garden construction to learn a host of new orand repairs. ganizational planning and Finding the financing and technical abilities every manpower to undertake step of the way. repairs as well as landJoining Boy Scouts fascaping can prove difficult cilitated Ottl — who has for low-income preschools. high-functioning autism Fortunately for RCCG-GSA — to gain vital life and Preschool, which is mainsocial skills, participate in Dominic Ottl of Troop 610. tained by Tyrone Dukes numerous activities and be and Air Force veteran Ashley Dukes, Ottl exposed to other men (and women) menorganized a significant effort to finish his toring him. Ottl was embraced with open project and contribute to the school. arms by Troop 610, allowing him to fulThe Eagle Scout service project, also ly participate and be a part of the troop known as the Eagle Scout project, is an like any other Scout. Ottl’s parents, Linda opportunity for Boy Scouts to demon- and Lubomir Ottl, have been incredibly strate their great character and leader- supportive throughout the course of his ship skills while assisting someone in need journey. in their community. The positive impact “I am proud of what he has done — not of the work must be long-term in nature, just this project, his journey,” Lubomir and the Scout must not receive any kind said. of financial compensation because of it.

For more information, please contact The purpose is to cultivate kindness, lead- Lubomir at lou.ottl@gmail.com. To learn ership, initiative and resourcefulness. Ottl more about RCCG-GSA Preschool, visit concentrated for over two months orga- https://rccggsapreschool.wixsite.com/ nizing and securing all necessary clearanc- my-site. RCCG-GSA Preschool is located es, which was a tremendous undertaking. at 710 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon.

CELEBRATION IN TAMPA BAY

Staff Report It’s that time of the to a soundtrack of year for thrills and holiclassic holiday tunes day cheer at Busch Garwill take place on the dens Christmas Town, Festival Field on select the biggest and brightevent nights. est holiday celebration Christmas Town ofin the Tampa Bay area. fers an abundance of Now through January festive flavors to sat7, 2024, the park transisfy the holiday cravBusch Gardens Christmas Town returns forms into a bright winings on your visit. In with all-new displays and returning fater wonderland of sea- vorites like Santas North Pole Experience, addition to traditional sonal entertainment, hot cocoa, which will presented by Coca-Cola, now through unique and up-close enhave a dedicated cabin January 7, 2024. counters with animals, with options to choose culinary masterpieces from, guests can imas well as attractions merse themselves in like Serengeti Flyer and a seasonal culinary the award-winning hyjourney throughout the brid coaster Iron Gwapark, including dishes zi. Iconic and beloved such as chicken coqentertainment options au-vin served with red will take over the entire bliss mashed potatoes; park and be available The jolliest and brightest train around, the holiday poutine, served through the 58 consec- Holly Jolly Express, will transport guests with gravy, cheese into the celebration as it loops around utive days of the event, curds and cranberall included with regu- the park with passengers singing along to ry relish and smoked their favorite songs of the season. lar park admission. turkey with stuffing, All-new this year, cranberry relish, gravy guests can celebrate and Texas toast; and the season with light the festive cheese and displays that will berries, a brie tart with take over the Jungala blackberry jam and area, extending all the sliced almonds. way though Pantopia There will be signafeaturing a light-up ture Christmas Town walkthrough dragon. cocktails to sample Located in the Bird Gar- Guests will experience a marvelous light as well, including the dens area of the park, mistletoe margarita, tunnel, presented by Coca-Cola and guests are sure to step composed of thousands of glimmering ginger snap mule and into wonder through a LED lights seamlessly synchronized to candy cane lane, which holiday tunes. marvelous light tunnel, consists of vodka, Mopresented by Coca-Cola and composed of nin peppermint, grenadine and a splash of thousands of glimmering LED lights seam- lime. lessly synchronized to a symphony of holiday Guests looking for an extra dose of holiday tunes. Also, a brand-new 40-foot pixelated cheer can opt to enhance their Christmas tree will deck the halls at Cheetah Plaza.

Town experience by selecting from a nice list Celebrating the holidays for more than a of jolly upgrades. For Santa’s North Pole Exdecade, Christmas Town returns with some perience, presented by Coca-Cola, and meet of the fan-favorites that guests hold near and greets with Rudolph and Friends, a Sanand dear, such as Santa’s North Pole Expe- ta/Rudolph Priority Access Line is available rience, presented by Coca-Cola. Also return- for purchase. And for a merry memorable exing is Storytime with Mrs. Claus and Ru- perience, guests can book a Christmas Town dolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Friends VIP Tour, which will include front-of-the-line at Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland, where access to Santa’s House and Rudolph’s Winguests get to meet and greet the most fa- ter Wonderland, a complimentary souvenir mous reindeer of all. mug, reserved seating to the Christmas on Other returning entertainment options Ice show, an opportunity to feed flamingos are Christmas on Ice at the Moroccan Pal- and more. A Christmas Town Elite Tour is ace Theater, Elmo’s Christmas Wish, Three also available, including everything the VIP Kings Journey and the Holly Jolly Express. tour offers plus a meet and greet with Santa The evening sky comes to life with ‘Holiday and reserved seating for the fireworks show. in the Sky, a Nighttime Spectacular,’ preTo be the first to know about event desented by Bad Boy Mowers. This colorful tails and special offers, visit www.christdisplay of festive fireworks choreographed mastown.com.

Page 10

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 11

KINGS AVENUE BAPTIST HOLIDAY FUN ON A BUDGET WITH CONTINUES WALK THRU BETHLEHEM TRADITION

By Kelly Wise Valdes Kings Avenue Baptist to the time of Jesus and Church welcomes the comgetting to be a part of the munity to experience the story — getting to know true meaning of Christmas what it was like to grow up at its 37th annual Walk back then and to see what Thru Bethlehem (WTB) all Jesus went through for event. The awe-inspiring us.” production brings the city As you can imagine, a of Bethlehem alive during production of this size and this free event that has on multiple days requires The community is invited to register brought this Christmas many hands. Kings Avenue to attend Kings Avenue Baptist tradition to the community Church’s 37th annual Walk Thru Baptist Church is grateful since 1986.

Bethlehem event. New director Aus- for the over 350 volunThis family-friendly, im- tin Brown was baby Jesus during teers from various churchthe production 26 years ago (as mersive holiday experience es and organizations that pictured in the manger). transports guests back to help make this event a Bethlehem during the time of Jesus’ birth. success every year. With more than 20,000 Visitors will feel the sense of time travel square feet of this recreated holy city, volfrom the realism of the scenery, authentically unteers and donations are always welcome. dressed townspeople, Roman guards, Tem- WTB is always in search of more volunteers. ple scribes, inn keepers, shepherds and live The Durant High School JROTC and Amerianimals. During the 45-minute guided tour, can Heritage Girls have been a huge help with guests will be moved by the sights, sounds setting up, acting and cleaning up after the and smells of ancient Bethlehem. The tour event. Volunteers come from across Florida concludes at the Holy Manger with Mary, Jo- as well as other states to help share the story seph and baby Jesus. of the birth of Jesus.

Nicole Johnson is a guide director for WTB Last year, more than 3,500 visitors attendand is excited to volunteer again. She loves ed WTB, and the reservation system helped being a part of giving families a memorable to streamline the tours. Reservations can be event that makes them want to keep coming made by visiting https://walkthrubethlehem. back each year. com/. Walk-up spots are available on Friday “People come to you wanting to hear about and Saturday only.

Jesus,” said Johnson. “It’s a generational Walk Thru Bethlehem takes place on Thursevent.” day, December 7 from 6:30-9:30 p.m.; Friday, WTB director Austin Brown has a particu- December 8 from 6:30-9:30 p.m.; Saturday, lar fondness for WTB. December 9 from 4-9:30 p.m.; and Sunday, “I grew up being a part of this event, as I December 10 from 4-9:30 p.m. For more inplayed baby Jesus 26 years ago,” said Brown. formation, call 813-684-1484. There will be “So, it’s always been an important tradition to live entertainment this year on Friday and me and my family. I love seeing all the people Saturday night. Kings Avenue Baptist Church come through every year, being taken back is located at 2602 S Kings Ave. in Brandon.

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BAKING, SKATING & MORE

By Ashley Abene Prices have skythey can be cost-efrocketed for everyfective. Some ideas day items, so finding are baking a favorite affordable gifts and sweet, making perfood for the holidays sonalized ornaments can feel like an imor crocheting a baby possible task. Howhat. ever, there are plenty Next, buy useful of easy ways to save stocking stuffers.

Every year, the Burton family of Valrico money this holiday Rather than purchasputs on a magnificent light show. season. ing expensive items First, set a spending as stocking stuffers, goal for the season. buy necessities inWhether budgeting stead. Some examfor gifts or hosting a ples of necessary dinner, planning a set stocking stuffers are amount to spend can socks, toothbrushes, help with meeting fideodorant or crayons nancial holiday goals. for the kids.

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is transTurn that holiday Look for sales on formed into the Winter Village from now meal into a potluck. gifts and food. Many until January 1, 2024.

Every family member stores offer holiday or friend can bring a main dish and side. sales and incentives to entice people This way, the full cost of the meal isn’t the through the doors. Also, grocery rebate sole responsibility of the host. applications (Ibotta or Fetch) can help Limit gifts to four or less for immedi- with the cost of food since the user gets ate family. Budgeting for Christmas with cash back to favorite stores. children is difficult, but following the Finally, check out local holiday events ‘four-gift rule’ can help. The ‘four-gift rule’ that are free to the community rather is buying something wanted, something than taking an expensive trip out of town. needed, something to wear and some- One event is the Winter Village at Curtis thing to read.

Hixon Waterfront Park in Tampa, which Implementing Secret Santa with ex- features light shows, ice skating, pretend tended family can help ease the burden on snow and Christmas festivities. Visit the that pocketbook. With the Secret Santa Winter Village website for more informaapproach to gift-giving, instead of buying tion at https://wintervillagetampa.com. gifts for 20 people, every person choosFor a light show in the Valrico area, the es a special gift for one person within a Burton family puts on quite a display and specified price limit. are even contenders in the 2023 Great Handmade gifts from the heart can be Christmas Light Fight. Find out more deworth more than store-bought gifts. An tails about this show at www.facebook. added benefit to handmade gifts is that com/burtonfamilylightshow.

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Page 11

CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS TO START FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

By Ashley Abene The holiday season At-home traditions is quickly approaching. for the family include The busyness and fast spending December pace of Christmas can watching a Christbe overwhelming and mas movie each day exhausting. However, or baking cookies and taking a step back and bringing them to the enjoying Christmas neighbors together.

Metropolitan Ministries’ annual Holiday traditions with family Gift Market helps reach the community in Another idea is makcan be a release. There ing simple, inexpensive need every year. are many traditions crafts, such as cards, kids can participate in that bring gift tags or presents from Dollar families closer and help them Tree finds. Finding items around remember the reason for the the house to recycle and make season. ornaments together can be fun, One fun tradition to do as a like turning an empty baby food family is to look at Christmas jar into a snow globe. lights. Besides local neighborChristmas countdowns are hoods, there are events in the also a great way to include the area that put on light shows. Tampa Bay YMCAs kids in preparing for Christmas.

Plant City’s Christmas Lane Some Advent calendars have often participate in Angel Tree each (https://christmaslane.com/) a candy or flavor of coffee for Christmas season. and the Burton Family Light each day. Other Advent calenShow in Valrico (www.facebook.com/bur- dars focus on biblical Scriptures, suggesttonfamilylightshow) are such options. ing a Scripture a day for the month of DeThere is also the live nativity called Walk cember.

Through Bethlehem (WTB) held at Kings Finally, to get into the spirit of giving, Avenue Baptist Church in Brandon. This there are many local volunteer opportunievent is only put on for a few days: Thurs- ties that the whole family can participate day, December 7 through Sunday, Decem- in. Metropolitan Ministries has events to ber 10. WTB is a live-action nativity telling volunteer at, like toy and food drives or givthe classic Christmas story. Reserve a spot ing out donations to families in need. Many at https://walkthrubethlehem.com/. local YMCAs participate in the Angel Tree A local realtor, Sarah Hart with the Hart program; when entering a YMCA location, Group, said, “I enjoy spending time with grab an angel off the tree and return the my family at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, requested gifts for that child. Reach out where the riverwalk is transformed into to your local YMCA for Angel Tree locaa Winter Village. This transformation in- tions. You can also call the Salvation Army cludes luxury decorations, ice skating, faux of Tampa for a list of Angel Tree locations snow and more.” throughout the county at 813-549-5303.

More information for this event can be These are all great ways to encourage givfound at https://wintervillagetampa.com. ing in the heart of families.

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Page 12

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 11

PALM TREE SANTAS OFFER SPECIAL MUSIC SHOWCASE AND FAOPA’S VISITORS FOR HOLIDAY EVENTS HOLIDAY OFFERINGS GIVE THE GIFT

By Jane Owen OF MUSIC TO THE COMMUNITY ’Tis the are hiring s e a s o n a trained for perprofessionfect beach al with a weather, background festive boat check, liabilparades and ity insurance decorated and a Santa palm trees. who abides While it is by a code of true that ethics,” said holiday traElkin. ditions in The numFlorida are A group from the Palm Tree Santas met for dinner in October ber of Sanat The Shrimp Boat in Valrico. unique, most tas in the everyone agrees a visit from Santa is a organization varies from year to year, highlight of the season. but it is between 125 and 150. In HillsIf you are looking to see Santa or hope borough County, there are currently 26 he will make a special visit, the place to Santas. On the Palm Tree Santas webstart your search is with the Palm Tree site, Santas can be located by county.

Santas Inc. You will find a Santa and Santas are listed with a picture and peace of mind. biographical information. They can be The Palm Tree Santas is an organi- emailed and, in many cases, called or zation of professional Santas and Mrs. texted. There is a place on each Santa’s Clauses who are all required to submit page to request a quote from a Santa an annual background check, carry a for a public event. In addition, there is a professional entertainers liability in- Santa coordinator who will send a quote surance and maintain a membership in on whichever Santa is available. the International Brotherhood of Real It’s been 30 years since Elkin porBearded Santas (IBRBS). trayed Santa for the first time, and his Bob Elkin, known as ‘Santa Bob,’ is passion for the role has grown every the president of the Palm Tree Santas. year.

In 1993, Elkin first spread joy as a San“Each time a child sees Santa, they ta at his granddaughter’s preschool. He seem to light up. The love, the hope and soon became passionate about sharing the joy that shows in their eyes and in the traditions of Santa in a profession- their smiles warms your heart. I am so al way; Elkin even has a Ph.D. in Santa very blessed to portray Santa Claus,” ElClausology. He started Palm Tree Santas kin said. in 2006, and the organization was incorFor more information about the Palm porated as a nonprofit in 2011.

Tree Santas, email Santa Bob at san“Hiring a member from our website ta@santatb.com. To find a Santa, visit means the client can rest assured they https://palmtreesantas.com/.

By Lily Belcher Music Showactivities while case is hosting parents get the its annual holiday night off. programs and “With it being Parent’s Night Santa’s WorkOut ahead of the shop, we norholidays. mally pick out This year’s some gifts that shows by the the kids get to Florida Academy make themselves of the Performand we package Photo courtesy of Paul Storm Photography. ing Arts (FAOPA), them up, wrap Music Showcase and the Florida Academy of the located at Music Performing Arts host shows for students and adults them up and then Showcase, inthey get to give of all ages. clude The Music Man those gifts to whomfrom Friday to Sunday, ever they want to for December 8-10 and Christmas,” Sanchez 15-17. FAOPA’s Spotsaid. light! program, which features performers Tickets will cost $30 for children not of all ages, will participate in the perfor- currently enrolled in a FAOPA program, mances. Matinee shows will be hosted on $25 for those who are enrolled and $15 Saturdays and Sundays in addition to eve- for siblings. ning performances.

FAOPA’s Amplify student group will Each show will be unique with different sing at a number of Christmas events in performers rotating roles based on avail- the community to show off their skills and ability among the student and adult cast bring their Christmas spirit to areas outmembers. side of Music Showcase.

“We actually double and triple-cast roles Music Showcase has offered instruso that way it gives a variety of different ments, accessories and printed music ages and people to have an opportunity to since it opened its doors in 1995. The be leads,” director Danielle Sanchez said. business hosts lessons, camps and perforTickets to see The Music Man are on mances for all ages. The partnership with sale for $15 for standard seating or $20 FAOPA allows Music Showcase to host for VIP seating. musical theater performances and classes The family-owned business will also for students and adults. host a Parent’s Night Out Polar Express To purchase tickets for this year’s Parand Santa’s Workshop on Friday, Decem- ent’s Night Out, visit https://faopa.org/ ber 1 from 5:30 p.m. until 10 p.m. Children parents-night-out/. ages 5-12 will have the opportunity to parTo purchase tickets for The Music Man, ticipate in crafts, games, music, a Christ- visit https://faopa.org/product-category/ mas pajama contest and more engaging purchase-tickets/.

November 2023

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 13

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 11

HOLIDAY MARKETS, FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS & MORE Staff Report

Jingle Bell Bazaar In Ybor City

displays are sure to delight. Make sure that C.A.R.E. Gift And Wine Fair you visit and write your letters to Santa, Come and enjoy a free, fun, festive holiThe Critter Adoption and Rescue Effort as well as decorate ornaments and have day event in Tampa’s historic Ybor City at (C.A.R.E.) Gift and Wine Fair is back again your face painted. There is also live enterthe annual Jingle Bell Bazaar. The Jingle this year on Saturday, December 2 from tainment on select nights. Christmas Lane Bell Bazaar is Ybor 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Southis open 6-10 p.m. from Friday, November City’s largest family shore Falls, located at 5831 24 through Sunday, December 24 at the holiday festival with Cascade Falls Ln. in Apollo Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds at 303 live music bands, enBeach. Along with a wide Berryfest Place in Plant City. Additional intertainment perforselection of vendors that formation can be found on its website at mances, food trucks, will help you to meet your https://christmaslane.com/. face painting, balholiday shopping needs, loon artists as well there will also be fabulous as holiday-themed items available in the silent Enchant At Tropicana Field shopping. Santa will auctions and raffle baskets.

Let Enchant light up your holiday seabe there, and children Plus, there will be free wine son. Bring your friends and family for a can get free phototasting. Tickets are $10, magical evening with over 4 million spargraphs with him. The with proceeds going to kling lights, its story-themed walk-through event takes place on C.A.R.E., which includes a light maze, ice skating and so much more.

Sunday, December free raffle ticket. For more seasonal market and shop local vendors as General admission includes access to the 10 from 12-6 p.m. at information, visit its web- you enjoy seasonal activities and perfor- complete event, including the maze, SanCentennial Park, losite at www.careshelter.org. mances, all under the picture-perfect back- ta, Village shops and games. Ice skating drop of the holiday decor. cated at 1800 E. 8th though is an additional price. Enchant will Ave. in Tampa. Additional information can Timely Treasures Arts & Crafts be at Tropicana Field at 1 Tropicana Dr. in Tampa Bay Festival Of Lights be found at its website, www.jinglebellba- Fair St. Petersburg and runs from Friday, NoThe Hillsborough County Fair- vember 24 through Sunday, December 31. zaar.com.

The United Methodist Church of grounds is presenting its upgrad- For additional information and to purchase Sun City Center will be hosting its ed holiday light spectacular at tickets, visit its website at https://enchanS’mores & Stores Event In River- Timely Treasures Arts & Crafts Fair Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights tchristmas.com/. on Saturday, November 25 from 9 crest Community and Santa’s Village, opening The Rivercrest community in Riverview is a.m.-2 p.m. in the church’s Life Enon Thanksgiving Day on Thurs- Paloma Glade Christmas Lights hosting its annual S’mores & Stores event richment Center. There will be over day, November 23 and running on Sunday, December 10 from 10 a.m.-2 70 vendors inside and outside with And Music Show through Sunday, December 31. p.m. Come and shop from a wide variety one-of-a-kind, handcrafted treaThis year, PaloThis year’s event of local vendors while enjoying fresh food sures, including jewelry, stained ma Glade in Fishfeatures a nearly from food trucks and holiday music. Two glass, holiday-themed artworks, Hawk Ranch has 2-mile drive-through special surprise guests will also be making doll clothing, cards, wood crafts, towels, cealmost 50 homes of continuous light feaan appearance; can you guess who? The ramics and much more. The Ladies Friendjoining its Christtures, followed by a festive event is being held at 11560 Ramble Creek ship Circle will also be selling its amazing mas lights and walking visit to Santa’s VilDr. in Riverview. Proceeds from the event baked goods, and gift wrapping will be music show. The lage. Enjoy a visit with San s ± go to West Florida Foster Care Services. available. thing that really ± ± ta’s favorite animals, camel makes Paloma k1 ? kc OI c A IO} rides, face painting, holiday Glade’s display Tampa’s Holiday Market Ŭ ů ů Ŷ s Ų ŵ Ų Ÿ Ū ū Ų Ÿ ű ŷ Ť Ŭ ŵ 4 Ŧ Ų Ű movies and holiday treats. special is how you Shop with local small businesses, The Hillsborough County can tune in with artisans and crafters at the Tampa Fairgrounds is located at your car radio and have the display synHoliday Market on Sunday, Decem215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover. chronized to the music. The display starts ber 3 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. The event on Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 23, is being held at Water Works Park, Christmas Lane Returns To Plant at 7 p.m. and will continue nightly until New located at 1701 N. Highland Ave. in City Year’s Eve. Teenagers in the neighborhood Tampa. Parents can shop, and there Christmas Lane is returning to Plant City. will also be collecting nonperishable food will also be food trucks and holiday Over 2,000 volunteer hours have prepared items for local charity Seeds of Hope, such entertainment while you shop. Plus, Evening Very Merry Market this winter wonderland full of the magic of as boxed potatoes, canned veggies, deschildren can visit Santa and have cookies Water Street in Tampa is hosting the Christmas at every turn.

With more than serts, pasta and mac and cheese, so please and milk with Mrs. Claus.

Very Merry Market on Thursday, December 1.5 million lights adorning over 200 Christ- bring an item to add to the collection.

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Page 15

CHRISTMAS TOWN, SANTA FEST, HOLIDAY PARADE & MORE Staff Report

Busch Gardens Christmas Town

The holidays come to life at Busch Gardens Christmas Town, the park’s award-winning holiday event. Celebrate the year with holiday cheer and create merry memories for the whole family during this seasonal event which is included with park admission. Guests can enjoy holiday traditions with a twist, from millions of sparkling lights throughout the park to holiday shows and visits with Santa and Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer.

Busch Gardens Christmas Town runs daily now through January 7, 2024. Visit its website, www.buschgardens.com, for more information.

Church Street Christmas

Come celebrate the spirit of Christmas and enjoy the sights and sounds of this magical season. All are invited to experience this free annual holiday event along Dade City’s historic Church Avenue, where carolers, choirs, dancers and musicians perform along luminary-lit sidewalks and brilliantly decorated homes. The street closes to vehicular traffic from Thursday through Saturday, December 21-23, 7-9 p.m. For more information, visit its website at www. churchstreetchristmas.org.

Christmas In The Wild At ZooTampa

glimpse into the magic of Christmas past, this holiday experience is a wonderful way to celebrate all the season has to offer with a variety of delightful themes and displays in each exhibit room.

Decorations include visitor favorites from past years as well as new marvels that are sure to amaze.

The Victorian Christmas Stroll will be available at the Henry B. Plant Museum, located at 401 W. Kennedy Blvd. in Tampa, from Saturday, November 18 through Sunday, December 31, 10 a.m.8 p.m. daily. Its website, www. plantmuseum.com, has more information.

Santa Fest Christmas Parade And Tree Lighting

Be part of Tampa’s holiday tradition when Santa Fest returns to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park again this year. It will open on Saturday, December 2, following the popular parade through downtown Tampa. The parade route steps off at 1:30 p.m. and begins at Morgan Street, travels west on Madison Street to Ashley Drive, turns north and ends at Ashley Drive and Cass Street. After the parade, enjoy the activities and entertainment in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and stay for the tree lighting at 6 p.m., followed by a screening of Frozen to end the day.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year at ZooTampa with the return of Christmas in the Wild, featuring one of Tampa Bay’s largest light displays, delectable holiday treats, amazing wildlife and new festive adventures. This year is bigger, better and Lakeland Christmas Parade Hosted by the Junior League of Greater brighter than ever with entertainment that Lakeland and the City of the whole Lakeland, the Lakeland family can Christmas Parade will be enjoy, inheld on Thursday, Decemcluding ber 7 starting at 7 p.m. festive Participants realms, holstep off from iday shows the RP Funding and a visit Center to begin with Santa. the 1.25-mile Christmas in the Wild runs on selective nights Novem- course winding through the city’s ber through December. Visit www.zootam- streets, around Lake Mirror and back down Lemon Street. The pa.org for more information. floats are decked out to reflect this year’s theme of ‘Christmas in A Victorian Christmas Stroll The Henry B. Plant Museum in Tam- Candy Land.’ The best, of course, pa celebrates the warmth and spirit of is saved for last, as the parade an old-fashioned holiday with its Victo- wraps up with a visit from Santa rian Christmas Stroll. Allowing visitors a and Mrs. Claus.

Tampa-area for photographs throughout the area. HolLighted Hol- iday-themed performances will take place iday Boat on Saturday, December 2, 9 and 16. Visit https://sparkmanwharf.com/ for additional Parades information.

Tampa’s largest lighted boat parade will take place on the Saturday before Christmas, December 23, along the Hillsborough River in downtown Tampa. The parade begins at the southern tip of Davis Island, travels through the convention center basin and up to the Heights, where the boats will turn around and head to Sparkman Wharf. Public viewing locations include Armature Works, Water Works Park and Channel Drive.

The annual Apollo Beach Lighted Boat Parade takes place on Saturday, December 9. It will leave the south channel at 6 p.m. and proceed toward Lands End Marina before winding around Lake Sunrise Basin, back out around Bal Harbor, then up Flamingo Canal before returning and going around Dolphin House at the end of Gran Kaymen Way and finally going up the canal leading to Symphony Isles. Come and meet the members of the Tampa Sailing Squadron before the parade at its clubhouse, located at 1250 Apollo Beach Blvd. in Apollo Beach.

The Alafia Lighted Boat Parade is always very popular with local residents. It will take place along the Alafia River from the Riverview Civic Center to River’s Edge Bar and Grill on Saturday, December 2, departing at 5 p.m.

Dancing For A Difference Performs The Nutcracker

Dancing for a Difference will be performing The Nutcracker on Saturday, December 16. Join Clara and her friends at her holiday party and through the land of sweets where she will meet friends from all over the world and the Sugar Plum Fairy. The dancers performing are of all ages and abilities, including those with disabilities.

Dancing for a Difference is located at 1076 E. Brandon Blvd., Ste. 109 in Brandon. Tickets can be purchased at https://dancestudio-pro.com/tickets/d4d.

Country Christmas At Cracker Country

Bring the family for a great day of experiencing the sights, sounds and smells of an old-fashioned country Christmas on S a t u r d ay, December 9 at Cracker Country.

Learn how the traditions of the 19th century differ from those of the 21st through hands-on crafts, holiday activities, historical interpretations, carols, decorations and more as you stroll through the site and visit the 13 original buildings.

Cracker Country is located at the Florida Winter Wonder Wharf At Chan- State Fairgrounds at 4800 U.S. Hwy. 301 N. Visit its website for more information and nelside Sparkman Wharf to purchase tickets at www.crackercounin the Channelside try.org/events/christmas. Advanced ticket District of Tampa purchase is required. will be celebrating with the Winter Wonder Wharf, an extravaganza of lights, music and decorations.

This year will include a 35-foot Christmas tree and a colorful forest on the lawn with opportunities

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Page 16

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

TAMPA METRO YMCA OFFERS A SAFE PLACE FOR LOCAL VETERANS

By Libby Hopkins

The Fire Watch including Hillsis Florida’s fight borough. “They to end veteran train civilians to suicide. In 2021, recognize the The Fire Watch signs of a veteran created the Vetin crisis and reeran Safe Place sources available (VSP) program to veterans,” Kita for businesses said. “Currently, and organizathere are 5,133 tions to show Recently, the Tampa Metro YMCA part- civilians trained its support and as Watch Standnered with James A. Haley Veterans’ help eliminate Hospital and Tampa General Hospital’s ers.”

Home Base program to offer a Veteran Safe Place veteran suicide Companies can for local veterans who suffer with mental issues. throughout Floribecome a Veterda. The VSP program is designed specif- an Safe Place by training their employically for organizations to educate, train ees as Watch Standers. To date, Tampa and empower their employees to be able Y has 65 Watch Standers, a number that to identify and support a veteran in cri- is growing as more staff participate. sis.

“The more opportunities our community Recently, the Tampa Metro YMCA can provide to steer a veteran off a path partnered with James A. Haley Veterans’ toward suicide, the lower we can drive Hospital and Tampa General Hospital’s the rate of veteran suicide in our com(TGH) Home Base program to offer a VSP munity,” Kita said. “Their objective is to for local veterans. “The Tampa YMCA is reduce veteran suicides in our targeted committed to the health of our commu- geographic areas by 25 percent over the nity, including mental health,” said Dawn next three years when compared against Kita, Tampa Metro Area YMCA’s opera- 2019 baseline data.” tions director of Community Health. “We “We are building a lifesaving network chose this program particularly because of community members and organizaMacDill Air Force Base is nearby, in- tions trained to identify the warning creasing the number of veterans in our signs of veterans in crisis and to direct area, as well as because we have veter- those veterans to the help they need,” an partnerships with the James A. Haley Kita said.

VA and TGH’s Home Base program, ofIf you’d like to learn more about the fering memberships to veterans through The Fire Watch program, you can visit these programs. In order to best serve its website at www.thefirewatch.org. our veterans, we want to give our staff The Tampa Metro YMCA is located at the tools to help veterans or anyone who 110 E. Oak Ave. in Tampa, with branchmay be in a mental health crisis.” es throughout Hillsborough County. For The Fire Watch Veteran Safe Place more information about its Veteran Safe program began in North Florida and has Place, you can contact the YMCA at 813recently expanded to several counties, 224-9622.

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Page 17

AUTHOR STEVE ALTIER WILL HARVEST AWARDS RECOGNIZE SIGN NEW BOOK RELEASE AT HILLSBOROUGH AGRICULTURE BARNES & NOBLE IN DECEMBER GIANTS WITH DEEP ROOTS

By Kathy L. Collins

By Linda Chion

Local resident and my books is a dream author Steve Altier come true. I have has published a new been waiting for this book in his Gabby and for the last 12 years.”

Maddox Adventure Altier explained series called Over the how he came to Falls with Gabby and work with 4 HorseMaddox. It is an exmen Publications: “I citing time for Altier, love telling this story. as he recently signed Another author told a 10-book, five-year them about me. They deal with 4 Horsemen offered me a table at Publications. a show in Orlando.

Altier said of the On the show’s second new book, “Gabby day, I was invited out and Maddox visit the for dinner by the COO historic Niagara Falls and the senior editor. and make new friends I heard their sales traveling from Canapitch and loved evda. They learn about Steve Altier has written another great book erything they offered. the rich history of the Obviously, I was set in the Gabby and Maddox Adventures series called Over the Falls with Gabby area and the people up, and I am so glad who have tried to con- and Maddox. You can meet the author on I was.” quer the mighty falls. Saturday, December 2 at the new Barnes For new writers, and Noble in Regency Square from 12 Seeking adventure Altier offered the folNoon-2 p.m. themselves, the kids lowing advice, “The brave the Cave of Winds and explore the minute you put pen to paper, you are a Hurricane Deck at the base of the Ameri- writer. So, how do you get your work can Falls. They take a ride on the Maid of published? That is the trick, and it can the Mist boat tour to the bottom of the be difficult. Beware, there are many vanHorseshoe Falls. Of course, a trip to Ni- ity presses. They want you to pay them agara would not be complete without an money to publish your work. So, do your exciting helicopter ride.” homework to find the best way to get Altier said, “A recent trip to Niaga- your work published.” ra Falls inspired this story. My daughter Altier will be at the new Barnes & Nowanted to see this place, so we decided to ble in Regency Square, located at 2428 vacation in the northeast. I would love to W. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon, on Saturgo back for a more extended stay.” day, December 2 from 12 Noon until 2 Of the new publisher, Altier said, “It has p.m. You can also visit www.stevealtier. taken a lot of hard work to get here. Hav- com for more information or to sign up ing a publisher wanting to help me publish for Altier’s newsletter.

‘Rooted in Tradivalues of hard work, tion’ is the theme service and caring this year for the that has been a staHillsborough County ple in Hillsborough Fair, which is an apt County’s agriculturdescriptor as well al community.” for the prestigious Posthumous MeHarvest Awards anmorial Award renounced before the cipients this year annual fair opens. are Timothy Cribbs, This year’s seven On the left are Joseph ‘Joe’ Sumner III, with his a 39-year agriculwife, Nikki, owners of Sumner Land Manhonorees were set ture teacher who agement and Cattle Company, with their to be recognized on children, Kayleigh Sumner and Joe Sumner was department November 2 during IV, and their kids’ maternal grandmother, Eva head at Durant High a 12 Noon luncheon in Plant City, and Listro. With them, on the right, are relatives at the Hillsborough Lance Philmon and his sons, Levi and Luke Clyde Dixon Sr. of Philmon.

County Fairgrounds Plant City, a World in Dover, three hours War II veteran who before the grand openretired from careers in ing of the 11-day counconstruction and crop ty fair. insurance.

Count among them The 2023 Harvest Joseph ‘Joe’ Sumner Award for Outstanding III, a seventh-generWomen in Agriculture ation cattle rancher recognizes Dee Dee whose family settled in Grooms of Plant City, Southern Hillsborough the matriarch of Fancy County in 1909, where Farms, founded in 1974.

Sumner continues to Fred Williams reoperate a cow calf opceives the Outstanding eration with his wife, Public and CommuniMark Proctor, left, with D.A. ‘Doug’ Nikki, and children, ty Service Award, in Holmberg, this year’s Harvest Award Kayleigh Sumner and part for his service on Lifetime Achievement honoree.

Joe Sumner IV. Joseph the Florida FFA Founreceived this year’s Harvest dation Board and his role as Award for Outstanding Farmco-founder of the Greater e r/ Ra n c h e r/ N u r s e r y m a n .

Plant City Chamber of ComHis great-grandfather is the merce Pig Jam — set for its namesake of Jule F. Sumner 20th year on Friday and SatHigh School in the Balm/Rivurday, November 17-18 — at erview area.

1401 Gordon Food Service Dr. Hailing from Lithia is D.A. in Plant City.

‘Doug’ Holmberg, this year’s The annual awards ceremoLifetime Achievement Award ny recognizes Friends of the recipient. Described as an Fair honorees as well. This “educator, agricultural innovator, hor- year’s list of 21 recipients is as follows: ticultural leader and creative thinker,” American Show Camels, ACME BarriHolmberg owns and operates Holmberg cades, Astin Farms, Bill Bartlett, HillsFarms, which produces citrus, tropical borough County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse, fruits and woody ornaments. He is a past Hillsborough County Cattlewomen, Hillpresident of the Hillsborough and state ag sborough County Commissioner Michael teacher associations and the Hillsborough Owen, Central Maintenance and Welding, County Farm Bureau. He taught at Horace iHeartMedia, In The Field magazine, Ed Mann Middle School in Brandon. and Terri Kelly, McCullagh & Scott, OdiDeeply rooted in tradition as well are orne Insurance, Pipe Pros, Stepp’s Towmembers of the Winfred Harrell family, ing, the Tampa Bay Times, TECO Peoples recipients of the 2023 Harvest Award for Gas, Tew Electric, United Rentals and, Farm Family of the Year. The family since posthumously, Robert McElheny.

1960 has owned and operated Harrell’s The Hillsborough County Fair runs Liner Farm in Plant City, while Harrell’s Nov. 2-12 at the Hillsborough County Nursery reportedly has grown to a major Fairgrounds in Dover, at 215 Sydney operation with more than 145 employees. Washer Road. For more information, visAs duly noted in the awards announce- it https://hillsboroughcountyfair.com or ment, “the Harrell family exemplifies the call 813-737-3247.

Terry Vassalotti and Michelle Colesanti in Porto, Portugal on the Duoro River

Page 18

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

39TH ANNUAL ALAFIA LIGHTED BOAT PARADE

PRESENTED BY THE FISHHAWK-RIVERVIEW ROTARY RETURNS ON DECEMBER 2

Staff Report

The FishHawk-Riverwhich gets maximum view Rotary is pleased recognition and expoto announce the 39th sure for your business annual Alafia Lighted or organization.

Boat Parade, presented Since its inception,

by Christopher Ligori & FishHawk-Riverview Associates, will be held Rotary members on Saturday, December have separately given 2 from 5-7 p.m. The celthrough dues and doebration will take place nations over $160,000 at the Riverview Civic to PolioPlus and The Center, with announceRotary Foundation for ments of the chili cookglobal projects in sevoff winners at the end The Rotary Club of FishHawk-Riverview en areas of focus. The of the boat parade and will hold the 39th annual Alafia Lighted club also volunteers in the winners of the best Boat Parade and chili cook-off event on Honduras each year Saturday, December 2. decorated boats at Rivwith Honduras Comer’s Edge Bar and Grill after the parade. passion Partners by installing water filtraFor the young and young at heart, Santa tion systems, latrines, water storage and will arrive by boat and be available for pho- building homes for families. What’s more, tos after disembarking at the Riverview Civ- the FishHawk-Riverview Rotary Club Founic Center. Children can make holiday crafts dation has funded scholarships to college or while onlookers enjoy Christmas music and accredited trade schools, which are awardthe bright holiday lights of the boats in the ed to graduating high school seniors demonparade. Last year, over 30 decorated and strating a commitment to service, Rotary’s lighted boats participated in the annual Camp Florida (camp for special needs chilevent. dren), rising high school junior delegates to In addition to the free viewing of the dec- S4TL (Seminar for Tomorrow’s Leaders) orated boats, stop inside the Riverview Civic and many local organizations. See www.

Center for the highly competitive chili cook- fishhawkriverviewrotary.org for a complete off. Tantalize your taste buds, sample the list of this year’s recipients. variety of chilis and vote for your favorite Rotary International is an organization of for a donation of $5. Hamburgers, hot dogs, leaders worldwide united through service drinks and popcorn will be available for pur- to provide humanitarian relief, encourage chase as well. All proceeds from the event high ethical standards in all vocations and will fund charitable activities of the Fish- help build goodwill and peace in the world.

Hawk-Riverview Rotary Club Foundation In more than 165 countries worldwide, apand Friends of the County Parks. proximately 1.4 million Rotarians belong to To sponsor the event, visit FishHawk-Riv- over 33,000 Rotary clubs. erview Rotary Events on Facebook or the For more information, email event club’s website to sign up. Sponsor opportu- chair Kim Tyson at hummingbird133@ nities start from $100 and go up to $2,500, verizon.net.

Volume 18, Issue 11

SCHOOL BOARD APPROVES TEMPORARY STADIUM PARTNERSHIP WITH NEW WOMEN’S PRO SOCCER TEAM Staff Report The Hillsborough County School Board approved a landmark partnership in October with Tampa Bay’s new top-tier women’s pro soccer team. Under the agreement, Super League Tampa Bay (SLTB) will pay the full cost to upgrade and expand the waterfront stadium adjacent to Blake High School in downtown Tampa. Starting in August 2024, the stadium will serve as the temporary home for the team, hosting its games for its first several seasons until it moves to its permanent home.

The team expects to invest more than $4 million in stadium enhancements, with the exact amount determined by the final design. These will be permanent upgrades, at no cost to taxpayers. Discussions are also underway for the team to create new opportunities for Blake students in music, performing arts, TV production as well as math and engineering.

“This is a unique public-private partnership that creates fantastic opportunities for our students and our entire community,” said Van Ayres, interim superintendent for Hillsborough County Public Schools.

“On the field, our athletes will have access to excellent new high-end facilities.

Off the field, we’ll have new opportunities for hands-on learning for all the students at the school,” Ayres said. “Plus, our whole community will see the benefits of investing in our schools to create a stronger future for all of us.”

Transformational enhancements paid for by the team will include expanding the stadium’s capacity from 1,800 to around 5,000, installing new FIFA-approved turf, upgrading locker room facilities, beautification projects on the adjacent Blake campus and more.

“As a fan, this location unlocks an entire evening of fun with so many hubs of activity around Downtown Tampa. You can have dinner with friends, then hop on a water taxi or stroll to the Riverwalk and ‘march to the match’ to cheer for your team,” SLTB President Christina Unkel said.

Along with the potential for an energized atmosphere before, during and after the club’s Saturday night home games, SLTB also looked to the stadium along the Hillsborough River to have a positive impact on children through this partnership, have the field ready for kickoff in August 2024 and allow excellent access for fans.

The team will hold its daily training at its Ybor City Training Facility and collaborate with school administrators to minimize any impact on the neighboring school. A soccer-specific stadium in a yet-to-be-determined location is being planned to serve as the team’s permanent home.

Deposits for season tickets, $24 each for the club’s August 2024 debut, are available now. Visit https://shop.superleaguetampabay.com/products/season-ticket-deposit to sign up.

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November 2023

Page 19

FLORIDA MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHIC HOLIDAY WATER CONSERVATION TIPS ARTS FINDS NEW HOME IN YBOR CITY — YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

By Katherine Munson, Lead Communications Coordinator

By Kathy L. Collins The Florida Museum In the second galof Photographic Arts, lery, FMoPA will host or FMoPA, is a unique its annual Members’ museum founded in Show from Tuesday, 2001 and conveniently December 12 through located in Ybor City. Its January 14, 2024. mission is dedicated to O’Dell said, “Our exhibition of important Members’ Show feaThe Florida Museum of Photographic photographic art as Arts (FMoPA) opened the doors to its new tures photographs by central to contempo- space in Ybor City on September 14. The the very talented phorary life and culture. It newly renovated space is dedicated solely tographers from our collects, preserves and to the exhibition of photographic art and community. All memfeatures exhibits of photos from locally, exhibits historic and bers are encouraged to nationally and internationally renowned contemporary works participate.” photographers. by nationally and interFMoPA’s home in nationally known photographic Ybor City began in September. artists.

It had spent many years in Moreover, it serves the comdowntown Tampa, but the curmunity by operating outreach programs to rent location feels just right. educate children and adults.

O’Dell said, “In our 3,000 square feet of FMoPA is one of a handful of museums newly renovated space, we are busy scheddedicated exclusively to exhibiting photo- uling exhibitions, classes and events that will graphs. engage, entertain and educate our visitors.”

Robin O’Dell, executive curator for FMoO’Dell added, “FMoPA is dedicated to PA, said, “As one of less than 10 museums in being a place of gathering and delight for the entire country dedicated solely to photo- everyone, as well as actively looking for graphic arts, we want our museum to be a ways to engage within the community. We place of inspiration and delight to people of actively go into classrooms, senior centers all ages and backgrounds.” and recreation centers offering ways to O’Dell added, “Our main gallery features learn both about photography and ways to national and internationally prominent explore creativity and self-exploration. We artists and changes every three months. welcome everyone to become a member Our second gallery focuses on artists and and participate in making Tampa a better outreaches reflecting our community and place to live.” changes every month.”

FMoPA is located at 1630 E. 7th Ave. in The next exhibit, which opens on Thurs- Ybor City. It is open Tuesday to Saturday day, December 7 and will run through March from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and on Sunday from 12 17, 2024, will feature the photographs of Noon-5 p.m. General admission tickets are Carlton Ward and is called Carlton Ward: $12 for people 54 years and younger and The Path of the Panther. Ward is a Nation- $10 for seniors, students and military peral Geographic photographer who chronicles sonnel. the natural habitats of Florida and the wildFor more information, please visit www. life within. fmopa.org.

Southwest Florida experienced its driest summer rainy season in 26 years, so it’s a good time to remember that water conservation is more important than ever during the dry season. Leading into the holiday season, water plays a role in everything from food preparation to the cleanup process.

Q: How can I save water when preparing holiday meals?

A: Defrost frozen foods in the refrigerator or the microwave instead of running hot water over them. Rinse vegetables and fruits in a sink or pan filled with water instead of under running water. This water can then be reused to water houseplants. A running faucet can use approximately 2 gallons of water per minute.

Q: What can I do to reduce water use when cleaning up from holiday gatherings?

A: When washing dishes by hand, fill one sink or basin with soapy water and fill the rinsing sink one-third to one-half full.

Avoid letting the water run continuously in the rinsing sink. Run your dishwasher only when you have a full load. Standard dishwashers can use 5 gallons of water or more per load.

Q: How can I be water conscious while cooking?

A: Select the proper size pans for cooking. Large pans require more cooking water than may be necessary. Scrape food scraps into the garbage can or a composting bin, rather than rinsing them into the sink’s garbage disposal. A garbage disposal uses approximately 2 gallons of water per minute.

Faith Family United Church of Christ

Q: How can I prepare my home to use water wisely if I’m away for the holidays?

A: Your home should be using little to no water while you’re traveling for the holidays. Check for indoor and outdoor leaks before you head out. If you have a permanent inground irrigation system, make sure your controller is set to follow local water restrictions or turned to the ‘off’ position if your lawn and landscape are not in need of additional water. Also, confirm that you have a functioning rain shut-off device for your irrigation system to account for natural rainfall that might occur while you’re away.

Q: How can I pass on water savings during the holidays?

A: Water-saving devices are the gifts that keep on giving. Look for WaterSense or ENERGY STAR-labeled products to help friends and family save water and money on utility bills long after the holidays are over. A WaterSense-labeled smart irrigation controller can save an average home up to 15,000 gallons of water a year.

Q: Where can I find more water conservation tips?

A: To find more water conservation tips, visit the district’s website at www.watermatters.org/water101.

As lead communications coordinator, Katherine Munson manages the district’s youth education program and assists in water conservation outreach efforts. Munson holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies concentrating in environmental education and communication from Green Mountain College and a master’s degree in global sustainability concentrating on water sustainability from the University of South Florida.

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Page 20

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Art, Musical, Bingo, Bunco, Christmas Comedy & More...

Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com

Brandon Rotary Upcoming Activities

The Rotary Club of Brandon’s annual Wild Game Dinner will be held on March 1, 2024, at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds. The fairgrounds are located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Please reach out to Chuck Burgess at 813-787-2980 for more information.

Brandon Global Eco (Zoom) Brandon Global Eco meets on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 6 p.m. on Zoom. Members are from the immediate area and other states. The primary focus is environmental education and ecological friendly projects. Brandon Global Eco planted 20,000 trees in Plant City with a statewide grant and planted greeneries around newly built houses for Habitat for Humanity. Visitors around the world are welcome at all meetings. For more information, contact Bruno Kazenas at bkazenas@comcast.net.

Volume 18, Issue 11

it celebrates the birth of Jesus. Performances will be on Saturday and Sunday, December 9 and 10 at 6 p.m. The December 10 performance will have deaf interpretation. This is a free event, and all are welcome. Other Christmas events at the church can be found on its website at www.fbcbrandon.org/christmas.

away. This leaves Doc to decide whether to spend the Yule season with her in a different city or stay at home to help a separated couple get back together. This full-length play for the whole family will help get you into the spirit of Christmas. Doc’s Holiday is being performed at the Grace Baptist Church, located at 114 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon, on Saturday and Sunday, December 9 and 10 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets for the show are $10 and available from www.facebook. com/events/s/870026744510469/.

Sip & Shop Art Walk

Come and enjoy an evening of local artists and downtown shopping as you enter the spirit of the season at historic Plant City’s Sip & Shop Art Walk. The event takes place on Friday, December 8 from 5-9 p.m. at McCall Park, 100 N. Collins St. in Plant City.

Holiday Bunco With GFWC Brandon Service League

The General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) Brandon Service League will be holding a holiday bunco event on Thursday, November 30 starting at 6 p.m. The event will take place at the Rivard-Simmons Event Center located at 3007 S. Kings Avenue in Brandon. As well as bunco prizes there will also be opportunity baskets and a 50/50 drawing.

Come out and enjoy an evening filled with fun and laughter, tickets are $25 (suggested donation) and are available online at www.gfwcbrandonserviceleague.org

Master Gardener Palm Tree Care Talk

Holiday-themed Bingo Bloomingdale High School The Dance Center is excited to announce

The World Of Dance

a special event, Little Dancer’s Discovery Day, designed especially for children ages 3 and 4. This delightful event offers young ones the chance to experience the joy of dance in a fun and friendly atmosphere and sign up for ongoing classes for the new year.

The event will be Thursday, November 30 at 3 p.m.

This is a fantastic opportunity for little ones to take their first steps into the captivating world of dance.

A dedicated team of experienced instructors will introduce children to the basics of dance, fostering their creativity and self-expression. Space for this exciting event is limited, and preregistration is required to ensure a spot. For more information and to register, please visit https://brandondance.com/, email info@brandondance.com, or call 813-684-4282. The Dance Center is located at 161 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon.

The Master Gardeners will be talking about palm tree care at the Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, located at 1906 Bloomingdale First Baptist Of Brandon’s Ave. in Valrico, on Tuesday, November 28 at 2 p.m. Learn about what healthy and Christmas Musical First Baptist Church of Brandon, lo- normal looks like for a palm, how to idencated at 216 N. Parsons Ave. will be per- tify problems and how to care for palms Doc’s Holiday — A Christmas forming a dramatic Christmas musical in Central Florida based on research and Comedy recommendations. Register for this event Doc’s house is a special place. But featuring its choir through the calendar fea- then again, Doc is a special person. He and orchestra. This ture at https://hcplc.org/. takes great joy from life and makes sure presentation will to share this zeal with all who cross his surely put you and your family into the Little Dancer’s Dis- threshold and many nutty and needy peoultimate Christmas covery Day: A Capti- ple do. Unfortunately, the only one who doesn’t understand this is Doc’s daughter, spirit and point your vating Opportunity Charlotte. And she chooses Christmasheart to the true reaFor Kids To Step Into time, of course, to tell Doc she is moving son for the season as

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The Bloomingdale High School music department is hosting a fun-filled evening of bingo on Thursday, November 30 starting at 6:30 p.m. in the school cafeteria. This is a holiday-themed event, so feel free to dress in your favorite ugly Christmas sweater or holiday T-shirt.

Along with bingo, you will be able to enjoy a hot chocolate bar with all the toppings, a delicious bake sale and a silent auction. All proceeds will go toward supporting the school’s young musicians.

Bloomingdale High School is located at 1700 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico.

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November 2023

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Page 22

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

BRANDON BALLET CELEBRATES 30TH ANNIVERSARY WITH MEMORABLE PERFORMANCE OF THE NUTCRACKER

By Kathy L. Collins

The Brandon BalBrentwood J. let will celebrate Townend, artistic their 30th anniverdirector of Brandon sary with a special Ballet, is excited for performance of The this milestone event.

Nutcracker this DeTownend said, “It cember. This year’s is an honor and a performance will privilege to welcome feature a heartback the talented warming reunion artists who laid the as original cast foundation for our The Brandon Ballet will celebrate its 30th members from the anniversary with a memorable performance of Nutcracker tradition. company’s very first The Nutcracker on Saturday, December 2 and This 30th anniverNutcracker perfor- Sunday, December 3 at Riverview High School. sary production is mance. so much more than just a show. It is a celeThe Nutcracker will be held at Riverview bration of the remarkable effect of Brandon High School, located at 11311 Boyette Rd. Ballet’s artistic contributions to this commuin Riverview. Performances will be held on nity.”

Saturday, December 2 at 7:30 p.m. and on Townend added, “We look forward to Sunday, December 3 at 2:30 and 5:30 p.m. sharing this performance, and 30 more Tickets are between $25.65 and $36.65. years of success, with audiences old and Price for tickets increase by $5 if purchased new.” at the door. Homeschool students should The original cast members will unite email the Brandon Ballet at dance@bran- with a talented new generation of dancers donballet.org to get a special discount code. to create a memorable experience like no You can get tickets by visiting https://bran- other. This nostalgic reunion promises to donballet.org/. evoke cherished memories for the dancers The much-anticipated 30th anniversary themselves as well as for Brandon Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker promises to dedicated audiences as they embark on an be an enchanting journey down memory unforgettable journey through the Land of lane. Brandon Ballet has assembled an ex- Sweets. ceptional lineup featuring Melanie BrockBrandon Ballet, founded in 1993, is a nonmeier-Jordy and Lucille Hanson, two of the profit dance company based in Brandon. It dancers who helped bring the timeless hol- is known for its commitment to artistic exiday classic to life three decades ago. This cellence and its contribution to the local arts extraordinary reunion is a testament to the community. The company has a rich history enduring legacy of Brandon Ballet and the of producing classical ballet performances, profound impact The Nutcracker has had on including the annual holiday classic The Nutits performers and audiences alike. cracker.

The Nutcracker is the perfect way to ring For more information, please visit https:// in the holidays with friends and family. brandonballet.org/.

Volume 18, Issue 11

RIVERVIEW REGENT IS IDEAL VENUE FOR EVERY OCCASION

By Kathy L. Collins

The Regent, confirst quarter of veniently located 2024. This event at 6437 Watson promises to be Rd. in Riverview, is an immersive exa stand-alone venperience for both ue which can host attendees and events from as exhibitors, celesmall as 50 guests brating the rich to extravagant afcultural heritage fairs for up to 800 of quinceañeras in guests. It is a prea grand, elegant miere venue right setting.” here in our comWhile The Remunity. gent provides a Shannon Keil, The Regent, located in Riverview, is a beautiful list of preferred venue that is great for any type of event, from CEO of The Regent, caterers resaid, “The Regent small and intimate gatherings to large extrava- nowned for their gant affairs. is more than just a exceptional servenue; it is a hub for unforgettable mo- vices, it understands the importance of ments. From elegant weddings to lively accommodating cultural and dietary prefquinceañeras and professional corporate erences. You have the flexibility to choose events, The Regent welcomes every event a caterer of your choice, provided the cawith open arms.” terer is licensed and insured, which allows Keil added, “Our venue ensures the per- you to curate a culinary experience that fect fit for any event, regardless of its size complements your event seamlessly. or scope.”

The staff at The Regent make booking Since its establishment in 2007, the your event as effortless as it is exciting. venue has undergone continuous en- You can reach out at 813-571-2494, vishancements, ensuring that every event it The Regent’s user-friendly website at held there benefits from the latest ame- www.theregentfl.com or email to info@ nities, technology and aesthetic upgrades. theregentfl.com.

Beyond being a splendid event space, Keil said, “The Regent is more than a The Regent plays a pivotal role in fos- venue; it is a testament to the dedication tering community engagement. It takes and passion of our team. With diverse pride in hosting numerous local chamber event offerings, community engagement meetings and galas, creating a conducive initiatives and commitment to excellence, environment for meaningful connections The Regent is the ideal choice for your and collaborations among local business- next celebration or corporate gathering. es and organizations.

Experience the difference at The Regent, Keil said, “In an effort to continually where moments become memories and enrich the community experience, The celebrations are crafted with perfection.”

Regent is thrilled to announce the upcomFor more information, please visit www. ing Quinceañera Expo scheduled for the theregentfl.com.

November 2023

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 11

Brandon/Winthrop

November 2023, Vol. 18, Iss. 11

SCHEDULE ON PAGE 43

AgeRejuvenation And New Vitality Announce Partnership

AgeRejuvenation and New Vitality are excited to announce a new partnership, as both clinics offer the most experi- chief medical officer, Dr. Ericsson, to enence in the antiaging market and share sure the continuity of personal treatment the same core patient treatment beliefs. plans and pricing. For more information, Some of the key decisions for this part- visit https://agerejuvenation.com/ or feel nership include the multiple locations free to call AgeRejuvenation directly at offered by AgeRejuvenation, such as 813-680-5498.

Brandon, Wesley Chapel, South Tampa, Winter Park and Winter Garden. In ad- Adult Day Program At Tessera dition, AgeRejuvenation has over 1,000 Tessera of Brandon, an assisted livfive-star Google reviews, and it services ing facility, is now offering an adult day its patients with 13 medical providers, care program. Sessions are 9:30 a.m.all credentialed in antiaging and regen- 1:30 p.m. or 1:30-5:30 p.m.; you can, of erative medicine. AgeRejuvenation spe- course, book the whole day. Each session cializes in both male and female services, will include one meal, including hormone snacks and persontherapy, testosteral care. Paperwork one replacement must be completed therapy, peptide and a reservation therapy, medical must be made beweight loss, stem fore bringing a loved cell therapy for one to its day care.

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vices offered, visit its website at www. miramedspa.com or call 813-654-6472. which provides support services to people who have developmental disabilities. It provides fun and creative indoor and outdoor activities, including Spanish class, employability skills, nature walks and a variety of arts and crafts. The Pavilis Center serves Tampa, Riverview, Brandon, Gibsonton, Ruskin and Wimauma areas, offering transportation to the center. For more information, call 813458-2859.

Mira Med Spa Sip And Shop Event

Mira Med Spa, an upscale boutique medical spa based in Valrico, is hosting a holiday Sip and Shop event on Thursday, December 14 from 2-6 p.m. Stop by to win raffles and shop for skincare products at a 20 percent discount.

Along with skincare products, Mira Med Spa also offers facials, massages, lash services, chemical peels and more. Its goal is to make you feel refreshed, confident and beautiful by providing the most advanced treatments and natural looking results.

Mira Med Spa is located at 1082 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. For additional information on ser-

HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Earns ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grade

HCA Florida Brandon Hospital earned a Hospital Safety Grade of A from The Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit watchdog that sets standards for excellence in patient care. Leapfrog assigns an A, B, C, D or F grade to general hospitals across the country based on over 30 national performance measures reflecting errors, accidents, injuries and infections, as well as the systems hospitals have in place to prevent harm. It is the only hospital ratings program exclusively based on hospital prevention of medical errors, infections and injuries that kill more than 500 patients a day nationally.

“An ‘A’ grade means our team of caregivers is putting our patients first,” said Tripp Owings, CEO at HCA Florida Brandon Hospital. “Patient safety is our number one priority

Reflux Relief So you can savor every bite of life Some acid reflux, also known as heartburn, is normal. But when it happens often, it may be a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Acid from the stomach can harm the esophagus, along with your teeth, voice box and lungs. If left untreated, GERD can even cause esophageal cancer.

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Page 26

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

EYE ON BUSINESS.....CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

By Jenny Bennett at Brandon Hospital. We wide selection including talk about safety in every Cubans, Philly cheese meeting with our team.” steaks, burgers, etc. It To see Brandon Hospialso has what have been tal’s full grade details and described as “the best to access patient tips for wings in Riverview” by staying safe in the hoscustomers. Owner Chrispital, visit www.hospitopher Murphy comes talsafetygrade.org. HCA from Buffalo and uses Florida Brandon Hospital the Anchor Bar recipe. is located at 119 Oakfield You won’t be disappointDr. in Brandon. For more information, ed by anything you order; portions are visit https://hcahealthcare.com/. huge, and everything is cooked to order.

Selfie Subs is open Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m.-9 p.m.

SCORE Tampa To find out more and Seeking Volunteer to view the menu visMentors it its website at www.

SCORE Tampa-Hillselfiesubs.com. sborough County offers free small business Burn Boot Camp mentoring by experts Opens In Branin marketing, finance, CPAs and more. Facedon SCORE TAMPA - HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY to-face or online, SCORE Burn Boot Camp mentors are able and is a gym that offers willing to aid in the succhallenging 45-mincess of small businesses, ute workouts to membut they can’t do it without volunteers. bers of all fitness levels, focus meetings SCORE-Tampa-Hillsborough County is to keep you on track and complimentary actively seeking volunteer business men- child watch as well as the best fitness tors. To find out how you can become a community in the world. The workouts mentor with just a few hours a week of consist of alternating strength and commitment, visit www.score.org/vol- conditioning days, focusing on differunteer/become-mentor. ent types of training for different areas of the body. Burn Taste The Best Boot Camp Brandon Wings In Riveris located at 107 W. view At Selfie Subs Bloomingdale Ave. Selfie Subs at 8001 in Brandon. Visit its U.S. 301 in Riverview website at https:// does not just offer subs burnbootcamp.com/ and sandwiches, albrandon-fl/ for more though it does have a information.

MENTORS NEEDED!

Volume 18, Issue 11

ROTARY SAVES LIVES AND TRANSFORMS COMMUNITIES

Staff Report

FishHawk-Riverview early 2024.

Rotarians save lives “I was there to and transform commuwitness the transnities. They’ve been doformation,” Rotarian ing so in Honduras for Ed Odom explained, more than seven years. “when, in three days, In 2016, members we built a home for a of the Rotary Club of family of five that had FishHawk-Riverview FishHawk-Riverview Rotarians celebrate been living under a with a Honduran family after finishing sought partners to suptarp held up by sticks construction of a new home in La Paz, port clean water initiaand branches. When Honduras. tives. They raised monwe handed keys to the ey and worked with El mother, with tears in Ayudante Mission in her eyes, she stated, Comayagua, Honduras ‘Now when it rains, my to provide over 100 clothes won’t get wet. biosand water filters to And when the wind some of the most imblows, I won’t lose my poverished families in things.’ By the time she Central America. Each was through, we all FishHawk-Riverview Rotarians mix concrete filter requires minihad tears in our eyes.” with members of a family in Honduras. mal maintenance and With the help of orprovides a family of 10 or more with clean ganizations like Rotary, Honduras Compasdrinking water for up to 10 years. With the sion Partners assists families work toward success of this program, FishHawk-River- self-sufficiency. view Rotarians returned two years later “One of the most rewarding moments,” with a $38,000 Global Grant to provide 115 Odom continued, “was last year, when the engineered latrines (bathrooms) for families owner of the first home we built [a year in the same communities. Latrines remove earlier] met us in front of the home we were waste from groundwater, improve overall about to build. She was well dressed and on health and hygiene and provide dignity to her way home from work. She thanked us those in need. for helping her family and expressed her In recent years, the FishHawk-River- happiness that her friend was about to view Rotary Club has worked closely with receive the same safety and security that Honduras Compassion Partners, a not-for- comes with homeownership.” profit in La Paz, Honduras that provides a Mission trips are being planned for the variety of services to needy families. Proj- spring of 2024. Visit www.fishhawkriverects include water filters, latrines, educa- viewrotary.org or www.hondurascompastion, housing and more. The club has built sion.org, or contact Odom at fishhawkrivertwo small homes in La Paz and has recent- viewrotary@gmail.com. Follow the Rotary ly raised money for two more, which are Club at www.facebook.com/fishhawkriverscheduled to be constructed by Rotarians in viewrotary/.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

November 2023

VINE VEGAN’S HOLIDAY MENU WILL REMIND CUSTOMERS OF HOME

By Lily Belcher Vine Vegan’s holiHowever, Stevens day menu features a said Vine Vegan can range of vegan meals fulfill a catering orto offer a healthy and der of any size for delicious alternative the holidays. to holiday dining.

Vine Vegan’s Owner Danielle Christmas menu will Stevens is offering have a similar look, two choices for enbut Stevens said trees: a sage mushcustomers can look room nut roast and forward to exciting a Vine Vegan house new dishes after meatloaf. Both enthe start of the new trees are also gluyear. ten-free.

In 2023, Vine “These dishes are Vegan was voted Danielle Stevens will offer holiday meal inspired by all the the best vegetaroptions at Vine Vegan. dishes we all grew up ian restaurant by on eating during the holidays.

Restaurant Guru after being They just feel like home,” Steopen for just one year. vens said.

In December of 2022, SteIn addition to the choice vens opened Vine Vegan to of entrees for Thanksgivoffer tasty vegan meals to ing meals, customers can the Brandon area. Her meals pick four sides, from mac range from healthy choices and cheese to maple walnut to vegan comfort food, offersweet potatoes to sage sausage stuffing. ing an option for all customers. The cafe Other sides include mashed potatoes and also offers a beautiful dining room degravy, roasted balsamic Brussel sprouts signed by the architectural designer and and a green bean casserole. founder of Bellevida Design.

“It was difficult to narrow down the Stevens found a way to connect her ones we chose, there are so many good culture and heritage to the menu at Vine ones,” she said. “It came down to talking Vegan, where she works to set an examto my staff and asking, ‘Which one of ple for improving the world one plantthese would you want to see on your based meal at a time.

Thanksgiving plate?’”

Vine Vegan is located at 2080 BadStevens said she would love to provide lands Dr. in Brandon off Brandon Park100 meals to local customers. In addition way. to offering individual plates for its meals, To view the menu or sign up for the Vine Vegan offers trays to share. Shar- newsletter, visit https://vinevegan.com/. able options include a six to eight-portion For more information, call 813-939-8463 tray and another 15 to 18-portion tray. or email eat@vinevegan.com.

Page 27

RIVER HILLS COUNTRY CLUB COMMITMENT

TO IMPROVEMENT CONTINUES FOUR YEARS INTO OWNERSHIP TRANSITION

By Makenzie Atkins Noel (Editor’s Note, this story was previously printed with editorial errors and has been corrected by the editorial team. Please forgive the confusion) River Hills Country Club has been on a journey of growth, improvement and commitment to providing an exceptional experience for members and guests.

Conceived in 1988 as a daily-fee golf facility with amenities that far surpassed any in what was a fairly remote area of Hillsborough County, River Hills Country Club opened the Joe Lee-designed course and clubhouse in 1989. The developer realized that Tampa was a burgeoning market and built a community that offered a great golf course, superb dining, clay tennis courts and tremendous value just as it does to this day.

With the decision for the HOA to purchase the amenity in September 2019, a commitment to continuous improvement has been a key factor in the continued growth and success of the club.

“We pride ourselves on having an outstanding board, great staff and honestly a down-to-earth, great membership,” said Margie Martin, membership and marketing director at River Hills Country Club. “It’s like all those three things just work so harmoniously together, and it really does make River Hills special.”

River Hills has also strengthened its ties with the community through events, workshops and social gatherings, and with goals to further enhance its offerings, this community connection will continue to grow.

By giving the gift of membership to

River Hills Country Club, you are gifting exclusive access to premium facilities, participation in members-only events and a sense of community. A membership to River Hills grants you access to the 18-hole championship golf course and practice facility, eight Har-Tru tennis courts with tournament-quality lighting, exceptional dining, an active social calendar, a fitness center and a Junior Olympic heated pool.

Individuals who join the club become part of a community that values connection and growth and strives to give a sense of community.

“It makes you feel like you’re home, which I think for people moving into the area are looking for that little slice of home,” said Martin.

The team at River Hills works hard to make every day fun at the club.

From golf and tennis lessons to monthly social events, you can always expect a good time. With upcoming holiday events, clinics, a 2024 Concert in the Park series, Theme Nights and more, there is something for everyone.

River Hills has made remarkable strides over the past year, with goals of a future that embraces inclusivity, sustainability and community engagement. Becoming a member at River Hills Country Club is about more than just golf; it’s about community.

For more information or to inquire about membership, please contact Martin at 813-655-5203 or email mmartin@riverhillscountryclub.com.

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Page 28

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 11

UPCOMING FREEDOM PLAZA HOLIDAY EVENTS WILL ENGAGE COMMUNITY MEMBERS

By Lily Belcher Freedom PlaJubilee Concert za residents are on Tuesday, Depreparing for cember 19 feaan eventful holturing singers iday season to from Martini celebrate with Pop. Martini Pop friends, family is a seven-piece and neighbors. show band of Freedom Pla- Freedom Plaza will feature three holiday events for its singers who za will host its perform holiday community. annual Christcarols and mumas tree lightsic. The coming for its community munity will also host on Monday, Deceman ugly Christmas ber 4. The lighting sweater contest. will kick off the holiFreedom Plaza is a day season at Freedom Plaza. Live carol- life plan community located in Sun City ers will offer entertainment at the event Center for seniors. The community offers and holiday treats and beverages will be an active, carefree-living lifestyle with available. different residential options to fit every “We do events like this year around to lifestyle. There are over 400 independent showcase the active lifestyle we offer at living residences and 83 assisted living our community,” marketing and sales co- residences available at the plaza. ordinator Tiffany Hernandez said.

“By choosing our community, you’re Around 20 employees will work the assured of active senior living with a events to bring the engaging and active maintenance-free retirement lifestyle, reevents to attendees, Hernandez said. sort-inspired services and amenities and “The goal is to showcase of active life- a smart plan for care if it’s ever needed,” style we have at Freedom Plaza, a con- according to the website. tinuing care retirement community,” she The 140-acre grounds feature a private said. lake, a walking trail and an 18-hole execOn Wednesday, December 13, Freedom utive golf course. Freedom Plaza offers Plaza will have a holiday Sip and Stroll activities and programs with a focus on Social. socializing, learning and wellness.

“Join us for this festive after-hours Reservations are required for all holiday event celebration of Yuletide traditions events. Call 813-642-1257 to RSVP. featuring a variety of live holiday enterFor more information, visit https:// tainment, savory and sweet treats of the freedomplazafl.com/events/. To contact season, holiday ‘cheer’ beverages, decked Freedom Plaza, email life@freedomplazahalls and more,” the event’s flyer says. fl.com. Freedom Plaza is located at 1010 Freedom Plaza will host the Jingle Bell American Eagle Blvd. in Sun City Center.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

November 2023

THE STRAZ CENTER FOR THE

PERFORMING ARTS PRESENTS THE CHOIR OF MAN

By Kathy L. Collins

The Choir of Man, hair-raising harmonow showing in the nies, foot-stomping Jaeb Theater at sing-alongs, worldthe Straz Center class tap dancing for the Performing and poetic meditaArts in Tampa, is a tions on the power wildly entertaining of community in experience that is this riotously ennot typical of what joyable homage you get when you to that gathering go to the theater. place we all love The Choir of Man so much: your local is now showing on pub. different days and The Choir of Man times through Sunis a one-of-a-kind day, December 10. musical filled with The Jaeb Theater 90 minutes of upwill be transformed lifting, joyous fun. into an authentic The Choir of Man is a different kind of theatrical Set in a typical Irish Pub. The aupub, nine men have experience that will be in Tampa at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts now through thentic part comes a foot stomping from the fact that Sunday, December 10. You will not want to miss good time as they there is a real your chance to be a part of this exciting, immer- jam through popusive and creative musical. working bar onlar songs by artists stage complete with free beer courtesy such as Katie Perry, Sia and Guns N’ Rosof Coppertail Brewing Co. So, if you go, es, just to name a few. be ready to drink in the action and have Tickets for The Choir of Man start at fun. $74.75 and may be purchased online at Known across the globe as the ultimate www.strazcenter.org, in person at the feel-good show, The Choir of Man offers Straz Center for the Performing Arts up 90 minutes of indisputable joy. What Ticket Sales Office or by calling 813-229is it? It is a party. It is a concert. It is the STAR (7827). Tickets are on sale now. best pub lock-in you have ever been to. Handling fees will apply.

The show features an array of songs, inThe Straz Center for the Performing cluding pop, classic rock, folk, Broadway, Arts is located at 1010 N. Macinnes Place pub tunes and more. The Choir of Man in downtown Tampa. has something for everyone.

For more information about The Choir of Man has a multitalented the Straz Center for the Performing Arts cast of nine talented blokes from a pub and its upcoming events, visit www. called The Jungle. The show combines strazcenter.org.

Page 29

FUNDS NEEDED FOR UNITED FOOD BANK OF PLANT CITY’S NEW BUILDING TO BETTER SERVE COMMUNITY

By Taylor Wells

A conceptual rendering of the United Food Bank of Plant City’s new home.

With its storage capacity too limited to serve the growing numbers of local residents in need, the United Food Bank and Services of Plant City (UFB) found itself in need of a larger facility to better serve them. Its Building Our Own Future Capital Campaign has raised $3 million, but there’s still much support needed to reach the $5 million necessary to fund its new home.

The food bank is temporarily located at Hillsborough Community College in a freestanding building at 2001 E. Cherry St. in Plant City as it prepares for the transition. The UFB expects to break ground for the new building soon, and it will take six to nine months to be completed. The new home will be located at the same address as the UFB’s old home: 702 E. Alsobrook St. in Plant City.

Once done, the food bank will have tripled in size, allowing it to have a larger warehouse and a loading dock that ensure acceptance of all food and supplies, whereas the limited space of the UFB’s old building forced it to turn away donations. It’ll also provide an education center and sustainability classes in English and Spanish as well as intake stations to find out what people really need and which places to refer them to if needed.

“When I came, six or seven years ago, we were serving about 1,200 people a month; n o w we’re doing over 10,000 people a month.

We distribute almost 4 million pounds of food a year, and recently our numbers are … about 12 people per day that are brandnew, never been here before, and the face of the people we’re serving is different. … The high inflation is really making it difficult for people,” said Mary Heysek, executive director of the United Food Bank of Plant City.

The UFB will continue to support Plant City, Dover, Thonotosassa, Seffner, Bealsville, Brandon, Valrico, Lithia and Riverview.

If you’d like to help fund the final $2 million, visit www.ufbpc.org/building-our-future and select “Donate Here.”

You can use a pledge card to make a contribution as well. In addition, there are naming rights opportunities for donors of UFB’s campaign, ranging from over $2,500, which earns a plaque on its Donor Wall, to $2 million, which earns the right to name the building.

To learn more, donate, or get a pledge card, please contact Heysek at mheysek@ufbpc.org, 813-763-4660 (cell) or 813-764-0625, ext. 5 (office).

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Page 30

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

HIT THE TRAILS WITH THE

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY HIKING SPREE

By Kathy L. Collins Fall in Florida and range brings cooler, from neighdrier air, which borhood is a perfect comparks, like bination for getJ.C. Handly ting outside. This Sports Comyear, make a plan plex in Branto participate don, to large in Hillsborough preserves Get out and experience the joy of hiking by participating in County’s annual with multithe 2023-24 Hillsborough County Hiking Spree. The theme Hiking Spree. The ple habitats, this year is ‘Discover Your Own Path’.

Hiking Spree belike Edward gan on November 1 and Medard Conservation runs through Sunday, Park in Plant City, to March 31, 2024. You Florida State Parks, can find information on like the Hillsborough the Hiking Spree and complete your reg- River State Park in Thonotosassa. istration to participate by visiting www.

Participants are encouraged to post hcflgov.net/hikingspree. photos from their hikes using the hashtag The annual Hiking Spree began in 2016 #TakeAHikeHC.” as a way to encourage people to exercise, There are a total 22 neighborhood explore the outdoors and experience na- parks, conservation parks, nature preture by visiting the many beautiful parks serves and state parks on this year’s and preserves located in Hillsborough list. The list includes several local destiCounty. The Hiking Spree has grown in nations, including Bullfrog Creek Wildpopularity each year and now draws life and Environmental Area in Wimauthousands of participants. ma, FishHawk Sports Complex in Lithia, This 2023-24 Hiking Spree trail list fea- Lakeview Village Park in Brandon, Stetures 25 trails. If you hike at least eight phen J. Wortham Park in Riverview and of the 25 trails between now and the end Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park in of March 2024, you can earn a patch, Plant City. a medallion for a walking stick or a pet The list of trails is higher because some bandana. One of the hikes can be at a lo- locations have more than one trail. cation anywhere on Earth.

I have had the privilege to participate Residents are encouraged to bring and complete the Hiking Spree for the their leashed dogs on the hikes. last few years. It is something I look forThe trails are designed to offer some- ward to each year. Hillsborough County thing for everyone, from hiking rookies is large, diverse and beautiful, and the to seasoned outdoor enthusiasts, with Hiking Spree provides an opportunity for hikes rated easy, moderate or strenuous. everyone to get out there and experience Hikes range in length from 5 miles to less the beautiful area we all call home. than a mile. The environmentally diverse Please visit www.hcflgov.net/hikingsites are spread throughout the county spree to register and participate.

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Volume 18, Issue 11

DECADE OF CHANGE: FLORIDA IN THE 1920S IS NOW OPEN AT THE TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER

By Kathy L. Collins Do you ever wonida, with intriguder what Florida ing items such as a was like during the pro-Prohibition Polk 1920s, when bootCounty newsletter leggers, flappers and photographs and more helped of Tampa judge shape our culture?

Leo Stalnaker, a Then you need to staunch Prohibition make a visit to the The new temporary exhibit at the Tampa Bay champion.

History Center, Decade of Change: Florida Tampa Bay History in the 1920s, features many interesting relics The 1920s marked Center, located at the rise of the moincluding photographs of young women 801 Water St. in toring tourist, and enjoying a day at Miami Beach. This photo downtown Tampa. the exhibition sheds comes to the museum courtesy of the State Decade of light on this transArchives of Florida.

Change: Florida in formative trend. the 1920s is a new With approximatetemporary exhibit ly 2.5 million tourat the history cenists visiting Florida ter. The exhibit is in 1925 alone, the available for viewdisplay showcasing now through es the evolution of July 14, 2024. transportation and Decade of The new temporary exhibit at the Tampa Bay the establishment Change: Florida in History Center features many interesting relics, of motorist camps, the 1920s is curat- including photographs of Tin Can Tourists by including Tampa’s ed by Brad Massey, the Burgert Brothers. This photo is a part of the historic DeSoto Tampa Bay History Center Collection.

Ph.D., Saunders Park.

Foundation curator There is even of public history. something for The exhibit transsports enthusiasts ports visitors back who will love exto an era marked by ploring the popularbootleggers, flapity of baseball, golf, pers and a transand tennis during formative wave of the 1920s. The exsocial, political and hibit features a cultural shifts. The look into the thrivexhibit provides a ing sports culture, snapshot of what from the Davis IsThe new temporary exhibit at the Tampa like was like in Bay History Center features many interesting lands Tennis Club Florida during the relics, including photographs of the Pepsi-Cola hosting the Dixie Giants, a ‘Negro League’ team that played in Cup in 1925 to the 1920s.

“One of the inter- Florida and Cuba in the 1920s and beyond. emergence of FloriThis photograph of the Giants in front of their active elements in da as a premier golf bus was taken in 1940 and is a part of the the show will teach destination with Tampa Bay History Center Collection. visitors how to do legends like Babe the foxtrot while Zaharias, Bobby boogying to ‘You Jones, and Walter Better Keep BabyHagen gracing the ing Baby,’ a 1920s newly constructed hit,” said Massey. courses.

Another highlight The exhibit conof the exhibition cludes with a is a collection of thought-provoking swimsuits that encapsulate the revolu- examination of Jim Crow politics, archition in beachwear during the era. The tectural transformations and the rise of daring departure from the conservative religious fundamentalism and PentecosBathing Suit Regulations of 1917 is told talism during this tumultuous period. through the stories of innovators like The Tampa Bay History Center is open Jane Fisher, who played a role in intro- daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. ducing fabric-light suits to the beaches If you would like more information of South Florida. Alongside bathing at- about tickets or exhibits, please visit its tire, Decade of Change features artifacts website at www.tampabayhistorycenthat tell the story of Prohibition in Flor- ter.org.

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November 2023

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

THREE BULLS INDUCTED INTO

BLOOMINGDALE ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME

By Nick Nahas Before the big member of the U17 homecoming game National team. She in October, three went on to play socBloomingdale Bulls cer for the Florida were inducted into the State Seminoles, high school’s athletic where she helped hall of fame. The class lead her team to the includes current Major national championLeague Baseball player ship. She twice went Richie Martin, former Bloomingdale High School athletic director on to become the Bloomingdale head Sara Bogue (left) congratulates this year’s Polk County Coach of inductees. baseball coach K.B. the Year at George Scull and former Lady Bulls soccer player Jenkins High School and coached her team Marissa Kazbour. to a 2012 state final appearance. Kazbour Martin, a 2012 graduate, is currently a currently coaches her daughter’s U11 West Major League Baseball free agent, and he Florida Flames team. She was nominated spent the last season with the Washington by her former high school head coach, Sue Nationals organization. He was selected by Peet. the Seattle Mariners out of high school but “It means a lot. It’s great that the school decided to attend the University of Florida has this,” said Kazbour. “I think it’s great instead, where he was a three-year starter to be a role model for the kids growing up at shortstop. He was later selected 20th to say, ‘Hey, I want to be better than her.’ I overall in the first round of the 2015 MLB think it’s wonderful.” draft by the Oakland Athletics. Martin made Scull served as the Bloomingdale basehis major league debut in 2019 with the ball head coach for 12 seasons after being Baltimore Orioles after being drafted by the the head man for the Armwood Hawks the organization number one overall in the Rule previous 10 seasons. In his 12 seasons at 5 draft. He is the only former Bloomingdale Bloomingdale, he led the Bulls to two state player who has made it to the major leagues. final fours and three district titles. He is Martin was nominated by Bloomingdale the winningest coach in Bloomingdale hisbaseball head coach Kris Wilken. tory with 330 career wins. Scull continues “I felt honored and very blessed,” said to work as a teacher at the school and can Martin. “I felt very excited to get back and be seen at all athletic events as the athletic come and see everybody and just take it all business manager. in. When I was playing in high school, I just “I was pretty shocked. I came in one wanted to help the team win and be the best morning and they said they wanted to see player and person I could be. I think things me and then they gave me an envelope and like this come as a byproduct.”

I opened it up, and it was pretty cool. This is Kazbour, a 2007 graduate, was a two- great,” said Scull. time County Player of the Year for the Scull thanked former athletic director Lady Bulls. She led Bloomingdale to the Donny Peek for starting this program sev2006 state championship game and was a eral years ago.

Page 31

Page 32

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 11

FIRST CLUBHOUSE FOR RESIDENTS WITH MENTAL ILLNESS IS NOW OPEN IN HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY

By Kathy L. Collins

For residents of to help members find Hillsborough County employment through who need help with job training as well mental illness, addicas learning life skills. tion and trauma, they ACTS has been will now have anothserving the Florier option. The Agenda community since cy for Community 1978 by providing Treatment Services individualized behav(ACTS), assisted with ioral health services The public gathered for a ribbon-cutting significant funding of the new Agency for Community Treat- in substance abuse from Hillsborough ment Services Clubhouse, which provides and mental health.

County, has creatACTS provides and help to area residents 18 years or older ed the county’s first who need help with mental illness, addic- manages a broad tion or trauma. clubhouse to help array of behavioral people with mental illness reclaim their health services, including prevention, lives. acute care and stabilization, treatment The ACTS Clubhouse, located at 201 and support services in the areas of subE. Yukon St. in Tampa, is housed in a stance abuse, co-occurring substance 10,000-square-foot building that was abuse and mental illness, child proteccompletely gutted and renovated. The tion, delinquency, criminal justice, housrenovated building includes employ- ing, economic self-sufficiency, health ment and technology training areas and and wellness. a kitchen for members. The renovations ACTS Board President Patrick Mazza and furnishing of the building cost an es- said, “The journey of bringing a clubtimated $2.5 million. Hillsborough Coun- house to Hillsborough County has been a ty Affordable Housing Services provided long and difficult one. A clubhouse allows $1.1 million in Community Development those diagnosed with mental health disBlock Grants. orders to transition from consumers of A ribbon-cutting ceremony to cele- mental health services to active, healthy brate completion of the work was held members of society.” on October 12.

The programs and services funded by Any resident 18 years or older who has Hillsborough County focus on creating a mental illness is eligible to become a new affordable housing opportunities, member of the clubhouse. Members are training for residents to further their given support in acquiring and keeping careers and afford home ownership and affordable housing and accessing men- infrastructure improvements that ental health services, government disabili- hance the communities around them. ty benefits and other services they may For more information, please visit need. The membership model is designed www.actsfl.org or call 813-246-4899.

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November 2023

Page 33

JINGLE BELL BAZAAR AT YBOR

WELCOMES THE COMMUNITY TO A FESTIVE HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA Staff Report

From Boys 2 Men Inc. and cake enthusiasts is thrilled to announce are invited to showcase the return of the Jingle their culinary talents in Bell Bazaar at Ybor. Set a friendly competition. to take place on Sunday, Judges will select the December 10, the event most mouthwatering, will once again transvelvety creation, and the form Historic Ybor City’s winner will receive a covCentennial Park into a eted title and a special holiday wonderland of prize. Visitors can also family-friendly activities, sample these delicious live entertainment and an creations, making it a array of seasonal delights. delightful treat for cake The fifth annual Jingle connoisseurs.

The fifth annual Jingle Bell Bazaar at Bell Bazaar at Ybor inThe Jingle Bell Bazaar Ybor City returns on Sunday, Decemvites attendees to expe- ber 10 with fun for the whole family, at Ybor is also excited to rience a day filled with including face painting, Santa’s Vil- announce the ‘Fostering joy, laughter and holiday a Dream Young Entrelage, live entertainment and more. cheer. The event will feapreneur Scholarship,’ ture live bands, captivating live performers, generously sponsored by the Grow Financial delectable food trucks and an abundance Foundation. This scholarship offers financial of holiday vendors offering unique gifts and assistance to young entrepreneurs who are treats perfect for the season. pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams and Santa’s Village, a central attraction at the striving to make a positive impact in the bazaar, will host holiday-themed activities, business world. including Santa’s Workshop of Arts and “We are thrilled to introduce the Red VelCrafts, free face painting for the little ones, vet Cake Contest and the Fostering a Dream a video gaming truck for all ages and the Young Entrepreneur Scholarship this year,” chance to capture the magic of the season said Archie. “These additions add an extra with free pictures with Santa himself. layer of excitement and community involve“Our aim with the Jingle Bell Bazaar at ment to our annual event, emphasizing our Ybor is to create an unforgettable experi- commitment to creativity, talent and fosterence that brings our community together in ing the dreams of our young entrepreneurs.” the spirit of the season,” said Linda Archie, The event is open to the public and free event coordinator. “We’re excited to provide for all to attend, offering a day of family-oria day filled with festive entertainment and ented activities and delightful experiences. unique shopping opportunities that highlight For sponsorship opportunities or further the essence of the holidays.” information about the event, please conOne of the highlights of this year’s Jingle tact Archie at info@jinglebellbazaar.com Bell Bazaar is the Red Velvet Cake Con- or visit the event’s website at www.jingletest. As part of the festivities, local bakers bellbazaar.com.

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Page 34

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 11

GET INVOLVED WITH HONORING AMERICA’S HEROES ON NATIONAL WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA DAY

By Taylor Wells

“ Re m e m b e r ning at 10 a.m., the fallen. Honor followed imthose who serve. mediately by Teach the next wreath placegeneration the ment. value of freeAbout the dom.” This is the local support yearlong misfor WAA, Kalyn Scouts in front of Mission BBQ’s mobile catering truck sion of Wreaths Dukes, family Across America at Serenity Meadows Memorial Park, Funeral Home & service counCrematory during last year’s National Wreaths Across (WAA), a 501(c) selor at SerenAmerica Day. (3) nonprofit ity Meadows, started in 2007 as an answer to the call for said, “It’s good. I mean, we’re in a military sponsored wreaths to honor our veterans. community here, a lot of veterans are here.

This year, National Wreaths Across Ameri- There’s a lot of support. We have…a lot of ca Day, during which volunteers will lay over Scouting troops, Mission BBQ, several air 2 million live balsam wreaths, is Saturday, patrol, some VFW, different groups like December 16. that.”

WAA’s theme for 2023 is ‘Serve and SucShe added that it’s looking like hundreds ceed.’ of people will be attending, and attendees “There are many ways to serve your com- will have a chance to lay a wreath or two. munity and country, and just as many defiSerenity Meadows is still accepting volnitions of success. We hope through focus- unteers. For anyone wanting to find out how ing on those stories of success we will help they can help, please call 813-677-9494 and change the dialogue around what it means ask for Dukes, who is coordinating National to serve your country,” said Karen Worces- Wreaths Across America Day at Serenity ter, executive director of Wreaths Across Meadows.

America.

Serenity Meadows has actually surpassed Nationwide, over 4,000 locations and its goal of 600 sponsored wreaths for more than 2 million volunteers are partici- Wreaths Across America Day, but additionpating this year. Alongside them are trans- al donations are always appreciated and will portation companies and their drivers who be used next year. And, of course, other lowill help deliver over 650 truckloads of cations hosting the day might need wreaths. sponsored wreaths. It’s a massive coordina- Sponsoring a wreath costs only $17. tion effort for the good cause of honoring To learn more about Wreaths Across America’s heroes.

America or how to get involved, visit www.

One location in our area that’s taking part wreathsacrossamerica.org. For Serenity is Serenity Meadows Memorial Park, Funer- Meadows’ WAA page, visit www.wreathal Home & Crematory. National Wreaths sacrossamerica.org/social/flsmfh-sereniAcross America Day at Serenity Meadows tymeadowsmemorialparkfuneralhomeandstarts at 9 a.m. with the ceremony begin- crematory?sid=45982|17920|0|1.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

November 2023

PLANT CITY ARTS COUNCIL HOSTS 36TH AT HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS HOME TOUR

By Kathy L. Collins The Plant City Council is to Arts Council will bring arts to present its 36th the Plant City annual At Home for community, to the Holidays Home promote eduTour on Sunday, cation in the December 10 from arts and to de1-4:30 p.m. The At velop artists Home for the Holand arts proidays Home Tour grams. will feature five The high festively decorated school scholhomes. Four homes arships are Members of the Plant City Arts Council are proud to are conveniently logiven to sepresent the 36th annual At Home for the Holidays cated in Plant City Home Tour on Sunday, December 10. Ticket holders niors from get to tour several festively decorated homes. and one is in Dover.

Durant High Tickets for the event are $30 School, Plant City High per person.

School and Strawberry In addition to the tour, the Crest High School. AppliPlant City Arts Council will cations can be obtained offer refreshments at the from the school’s guidPlant City Photo Archives loance counselor in March. cated at 106 S. Evers St. in Awards are made at the historic downtown Plant City. end of the year assembly Refreshments are included in at each school. the cost of your ticket.

In addition to the scholMaggie Carlisle, chair for arships, the Plant City the 2023 At Home for the Arts Council sponsors a Holidays Home Tour, said, “This is the variety of community events. These inArts Council of Plant City’s 36th annual clude the annual Seward sculptures, bantour. All proceeds are used for the Arts ners on light poles in downtown Plant Council projects. The projects are focused City, Empty Bowls, youth development, especially for scholarships to graduating field trips for underprivileged children and seniors who want to continue their edu- the Reflections Project at Plant City High cation in the arts from three of our local School. high schools.”

For more information on the 36th anLast year, approximately 250 people nual At Home for the Holidays Home Tour toured the homes on view. I went on the and to get tickets, please contact Carlisle tour. Every home had its own personali- at mcarlisle@trinkle-law.com or call 813ty and was decorated in the most festive 763-1686. fashion. I would highly recommend atFor more about the Plant City Arts tending the tour this year.

Council, please visit www.plantcityarts.

The mission of the Plant City Arts com.

Page 35

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FINANCIAL FOCUS

DON’T LEAVE YOUR IRA TO THE IRS If you’ve invested in an IRA for many decades, it may well turn into a key source of income for your retirement. Still, you might not deplete your IRA in your lifetime, especially if you also have a pension or a 401(k) and other investment income. So, if your IRA still has sizable assets after your passing, it would likely end up in your estate plan. If you leave your IRA to grown children or other family members, could they be hit with a big tax bill?

Here’s a little background: Up until the Secure Act of 2019, those who inherited traditional IRAs could extend their required withdrawals over their lifetimes, which stretched out the annual taxes due on these withdrawals. But the Secure Act changed the provisions for non-spouse beneficiaries who inherited an IRA after 2019, meaning that beneficiaries of inherited IRAs had only 10 years (beginning the year after death) to withdraw the entire balance. For some beneficiaries, this could potentially create a tax burden. (Inheritors of Roth IRAs are also required to follow the 10-year distribution rule but are not subject to income taxes on account earnings if the Roth IRA’s five-year holding period has been met).

However, not all beneficiaries were affected by the new rules. Spouses can stretch their inherited IRA distributions over their lifetimes and exceptions exist for certain non-spouse beneficiaries. Minor children of the IRA owner (until the age of majority), chronically ill or disabled individuals, and beneficiaries who are no more than 10 years younger than the IRA owner may opt to stretch their distributions.

The new 10-year requirement applies to IRAs inherited on or after Jan. 1, 2020. But due to confusion over changes to required minimum distribution (RMD) rules for some beneficiaries of inherited IRAs, the IRS waived

penalties for individuals who failed to take RMDs in 2021 and 2022 and extended the RMD penalty waiver for 2023.

Although these rulings give beneficiaries — those not eligible for the exemptions listed above — more time to plan, they will eventually need to start taking RMDs, which could affect their tax situations. To help protect your heirs, consider these suggestions: • Using permanent life insurance. A properly structured permanent life insurance policy could help you replace the assets your family might lose to the taxes resulting from an inherited IRA. You might even consider naming a charity as the beneficiary of an IRA, rather than your family members. The charity would receive the IRA proceeds tax free, and the life insurance could then provide tax-free benefits to your heirs.

• Leaving taxable investment accounts to your heirs.

Apart from your tax-deferred IRA, you may own other, fully taxable accounts containing investments such as stocks or bonds. Typically, these investments receive what’s known as a “step-up” in their cost basis once they are inherited. This means your heirs will essentially inherit all the gains your investments earned by the time of your passing — but they won’t be taxed on these gains if they sell the assets immediately. This type of sale could help offset the taxes your heirs will incur from the inherited IRA. The tax and investment issues surrounding inherited IRAs can be complex, so consult with your tax and financial advisors before making any moves. And, as with many areas relating to inheritances, the sooner you start planning, the better.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Article 6 – Oct. 23, 2023

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THE REGENT

Page 36

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 11

SENIOR CITIZEN SCAMS — BEWARE, DON’T BECOME A VICTIM

By Kelly Wise Valdes Each year, millions of elderly Americans fall victim to financial fraud, which may include such things as tech support schemes, romance conspiracies, fake lottery winnings, sweepstakes scams and more. These scams are estimated to have caused a loss of $3 billion per year for the elderly population.

Criminals prey on the trust of the elderly and communicate with them directly online, over the phone and by mail. Seniors tend to be easy targets from scammers because they may understand less about technology than the younger generation.

According to the FBI website, “Seniors may be less inclined to report fraud because they don’t know how, or they may be too ashamed at having been scammed.

They might also be concerned that their relatives will lose confidence in their abilities to manage their own financial affairs.”

Below are two similar stories from local victims on recent fraud via tech support schemes. Only first names will be used to protect the victims and their families.

In August, 86-year-old Mary was on her iPad looking through emails when a message popped up on her screen saying that her computer was compromised and she needed to call the toll-free number displayed. When her daughter, Sue, called her that afternoon, Sue learned that her mom had gone to the bank to take an $1,300 advance on her credit card.

“I found out that my mom had called the number and was told that she needed to pay $2,000 to unlock the computer,” said Sue. “My mom told him that she didn’t have that kind of money and he told her to go to her bank and get a cash advance from her credit card.”

Mary drove herself to the bank and asked to take out a cash advance. The teller asked her many questions, but Mary

According to the FBI website, senior citizen scams are an estimated $3 billion yearly industry.

finally told the teller that her son was in jail and she needed the cash for bail. She asked for all $100 bills and brought the cash home with her to await further instructions.

“I happened to have called her right after she returned home and asked where she was because I tried to call her,” said Sue. “That’s when she told me about the pop-up message earlier in the day while she was on the internet. I knew it was a scam and frantically asked her where the money was.”

Sue told her mom to not answer the phone until she arrived at the apartment.

“I immediately took possession of the cash and called the police who said there was no crime since the money had not been given to the scammer.”

The police advised Mary and Sue to block all calls and to not answer any unfamiliar calls. Mary was frantic, saying that the U.S. government had called her multiple times and she was scared that the government was coming after her. Sue had to continually reassure her mother that it was a scam and that the U.S. government would not ask her to take a cash advance from a credit card to unlock her computer.

In September, 76-year-old Mark had a similar situation. Mark was contacted by a convincing scammer who claimed to be a ‘Microsoft employee’ and explained to him that hackers had gotten access to his computer and had accessed several illegal sites, prompting an FBI investigation.

Shortly after that call, the ‘FBI’ contacted Mark and told him he would be arrested if he didn’t pay a fine of $6,000.

According to Mark’s daughter, Jen, her dad was very shaken by the event.

“They catch elderly victims off guard, and they panic, so logic goes out the window. He withdrew cash and was driving around per their instructions to a bitcoin machine to send it via a QR code,” she ex-

plained.

Luckily, Mark had inadvertently turned off the cell access on his phone in his panicked state, and that is likely what kept him from losing his money. Mark thought the FBI had ‘locked’ his phone and was coming to arrest him, until Jen got there the next day after being unable to reach him and realized what happened.

Both Sue and Jen said that education is the key to ending scams like this.

“Tell your parents never to be embarrassed to ask for help if they think they are in trouble,” said Jen. “Tell them about scams. Tell them that if someone threatens them, don’t engage, just hang up and call a trusted friend or family member.”

Seniors should be taught how to block a number and to not give out their number to people online and to never click a link that may come through via text. Also, seniors should be shown the FBI website, where there is a section that addresses these types of scams.

Another solution is to add another name of a trusted family member to the bank account and credit card of a senior so someone else is able to be messaged of possible fraud regarding the accounts.

If you or someone you know may have been a victim of elder fraud, contact your local FBI field office or submit a tip online at www.fbi.gov.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

THE THREE B’S MINISTRY

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The Three B’s Miniscleaning products try provides food, clothto over 60 famiing, shoes and other lies every week as vital necessities to famwell as 60 grocery ilies and individuals in boxes every other need in our community. week.”

“Our mission is to feed Last year, the people in our commucommunity’s need nity who have a need quickly surpassed for food,” said Melanie The Three B’s Ministry provides food, clothing, what Diaz was able Martin of The Three shoes and other vital necessities to families and to provide from the individuals in need in our community.

B’s Ministry. “We limited space in her believe no one should go hungry. Our non- home. “Prayers were answered earlier this profit has two main focus areas: homeless year when La Iglesia La Esperanza stepped outreach and family outreach. The nonprofit up to help provide the much-needed storwas officially established in December 2021, age space as well as distribution space for and 501(c)(3) status was received in Febru- this growing ministry,” Martin said. “Every ary 2022.”

Wednesday at this church location, the minMeals for the homeless are prepared and istry offers free grocery pickup, fresh foods, distributed every weekend and weekly gro- children’s clothes and toys.” cery pickups are organized each Wednesday Recently, the ministry was presented with before being distributed from the ministry’s the opportunity to purchase a box truck. partner church, La Iglesia La Esperanza on Having a box truck is a necessity, as multiSt. Cloud Rd. in Valrico. More than 1,000 ple pickups are made throughout the week people in the Tampa Bay area are assisted from various partners around town in order through The Three B’s Ministry each month. for The Three B’s Ministry to have the sup“In addition to homeless outreach, the min- plies needed for distributions. “At present, istry also provides free groceries, hygiene the ministry pays weekly to rent a box truck, items, clothing and small household items and unfortunately the funds for this recureach Wednesday at a church in Valrico as ring rental are running out,” Martin said. well,” Martin said. “During COVID, there “Having our own box truck purchased and were also families asking for help with gro- readily available for the various pickups will ceries. Martha Diaz, our director, discovered greatly increase the efficiency of the minthere was a huge need for food and that istry as well as the budget, allowing funds many families were struggling. She began to to be used for other necessities instead. The partner with different organizations to ac- community can help greatly in donating tocess more food and started making grocery wards the purchase of this box truck..” boxes each week for families in need. We If you would like to donate to The Three now provide fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, B’s Ministry, visit www.paypal.com/donate?dairy products, bread, sweets, drinks and campaign_id=NEEJLPNUHU5XA.

Page 37

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Page 38

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 11

BLUE STAR FAMILIES TAMPA CHAPTER MEETS MONTHLY AT STARBUCKS IN BLOOMINGDALE

TRY SOME TRULY LEMONICIOUS DRINKS

By Libby Hopkins

Blue Star Famin the Navy. She ilies is a nonprofit knows from exorganization that perience that is committed to when military strengthening milifamilies are contary families by connected in the necting them with community, the their neighbors to military member create a bond of muand their families tual support. are stronger.

The Tampa chap“For some ter of Blue Star people, this is Families meets ev- Blue Star Families is a nonprofit organization that a pass-through ery second Tuesday is committed to strengthening military families by duty station. of the month at the Other people setconnecting them with their neighbors.

Bloomingdale Startle here, and they bucks, located at 1920 have made the Tampa Bloomingdale Ave., at 11 Bay region home. Coffee a.m.

Connects is about conBlue Star Families nections. People chit chat Tampa chapter director about upcoming events.

Suzy Malloy started the Newer-to-the-community Bloomingdale Coffee members can ask quesConnect group in June of tions about the area,” 2021. Sponsored through Malloy said. a partnership with StarThe Tampa Bay area bucks, there are Coffee has a large military popConnects in over 200 ulation, and the Tampa communities around the chapter regularly hosts country. Coffee Connects events for members in provide an opportunity the community. In 2022, for friendships to grow and connections to the chapter hosted 114 local events, Malloy be made. Malloy said Blue Star Families sup- said. ports the military by creating connections Membership with Blue Star Families is within the community. free. To join, visit https://community.blue“We welcome everybody. Everybody who starfam.org/. has a military connection can be a Blue Star For more information about the Tampa Family,” Malloy said. chapter of Blue Star Families, email tamMalloy is a military spouse. Her husband, pa@bluestarfam.org or visit its Facebook Ron, is just shy of 33 years of active duty page @TampaBayBSF.

Lemonicious Drink you’re giving them naCo. is locally owned ture’s best.” and operated by The Knights reCurtis and Nadine cently switched to Knight. “I’m the a bottle/co-packer Chief Operations Ofto improve Lemonificer of Lemonicious cious’ production.

Drink Co. I co-found“This move will allow ed this venture with us to increase our my wife, Nadine, Lemonicious is locally owned and operat- production capacity, the CEO,” Curtis said. ed by Curtis and Nadine Knight. They are ensuring that more “We’re both passion- both passionate about creating all-natural people can enjoy Lelemonades and teas that taste fantastic ate about creating monicious beveragand reflect its commitment to using fresh, es,” Curtis said. “We all-natural lemonades locally sourced ingredients. and teas that taste are currently utilizing fantastic and reflect our commitment to their high-pressure pasteurization (HPP) using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.” technology, which helps extend our prodThe couple started Lemonicious out of uct’s shelf life to 90 days while maintainthe need to have better drink options for ing freshness in each bottle. This enables their children. “As parents, every choice us to reach a wider audience and brings us we make for our children comes from a closer to our vision of offering high-quality, place of love and care,” Curtis said. “Walk- all-natural beverages on a broader scale.” ing through the beverage aisles of grocery The couple likes giving back to their stores, we found most of the beverage op- community as well. Lemonicious recently tions contained high-fructose corn syrup partnered with the local nonprofit, Seeds and a cocktail of artificial flavors, preser- of Hope. “On October 12 of this year, we vatives and chemicals that sounded more had the privilege of partnering with Seeds like a science experiment than something of Hope at the food bank at the Presbyteyou would actually drink. We wanted rian Church of Bloomingdale,” Curtis said. something simple and natural, a drink “We wanted to support this local nonmade from real ingredients that we could profit to give back to our community. The give to our children without a second event allowed us to provide our beverages thought. Out of this desire, Lemonicious to the volunteers and participants while was born.” contributing to the local cause. Local to Lemonicious isn’t just a beverage. It’s the FishHawk area, it’s paramount for us the couple’s promise to families every- to be active especially in our own commuwhere. “An all-natural, delectably refresh- nity, and partnering with local nonprofits ing alternative made from real, fresh fruit,” aligns with our core values and mission.”

Curtis said. “A drink that not only pleases You can find Lemonicious products at the taste buds but also upholds the trust Crossroads Produce on County Rd. 39 in you place in us as caregivers. A drink you Lithia. For more information about Lemcan enjoy with your entire family, knowing onicious, visit https://lemonicious.net/.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 39

TAMPA ELECTRIC’S MANATEE VIEWING CENTER IS NOW OPEN FOR THE WINTER SEASON

Staff Report

Tampa Electric’s ture of Tampa Bay is award-winning Mana68 degrees or colder, tee Viewing Center remanatees gather in opened on November 1 the clean, warm wafor the season. ter discharge canal of This year, the ManaTampa Electric’s Big tee Viewing Center will Bend Power Station, include a new viewing sometimes by the platform to allow visihundreds. tors to get even closer Visitors also can ento the manatees. The joy meeting the rays, new platform opens on critical animals that Wednesday, November The TECO Manatee Viewing Center was rely on a healthy Tamrecently selected as one of the USA TODAY 15. TECO has revamped pa Bay ecosystem — 10Best Readers’ Choice Travel Awards for the Education Center and even touch them best free attractions for 2023. and also has added two gently as they glide new electric golf carts to help transport past in the touch tank. Guests can hike the guests from the remote parking lot. nature trail and take in the vistas from the “We’re pleased we can offer our guests 50-foot observation tower. additional elbow room – and the opportuniEach season, the center draws nearly ty to see the manatees from an even closer 400,000 visitors — for a total of more vantage point,” said Stan Kroh, manager of than 7 million. Admission and parking at Land and Stewardship Programs for Tam- the Apollo Beach facility are free, and the pa Electric. “The Manatee Viewing Center boardwalks are compliant with the Ameris the showcase for Tampa Electric’s com- icans with Disabilities Act for its guests’ mitment to environmental stewardship.” convenience. Contributions are welcomed The Manatee Viewing Center is the an- and will directly support protecting manachor attraction for the Florida Conserva- tees, preserving their habitats and educattion and Technology Center (FCTC), which ing the public. is a public-private partnership to feature The Manatee Viewing Center’s reguboth nature and technology. Tampa Electric lar hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. every day provides the campus to its environmental from now through April 15, 2024, except partners for their important research and Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter, when educational outreach. In addition to Tam- it is closed. (The facility closes at 3 p.m. on pa Electric, the partners include The Flori- Christmas Eve.) Comfortable shoes and da Aquarium, the Florida Fish and Wildlife clothing are recommended. Please note Conservation Commission (FWC) and the that no pets are allowed, only trained serUniversity of Florida. vice animals.

The manatees have gathered in the caVisit the center online at www.tampanal to find refuge from the cold since the electric.com/manatee or call 813-228early 1970s. When the water tempera- 4289 for more information.

ZIP ON BY FOR SKY-HIGH NATURE TRAILS, SCENIC BYWAYS AND THRILLS IN CENTRAL FLORIDA

By Jeff Hoening

Forests and canbridge, 90-minute yons are likely not tour guided by two things you’d two skilled and expect to visit in attentive guides.

Central Florida, but You’ll experience drive from Daytona a breathtaking zip Beach and you’ll across the 85-foot find the expansive deep Lost Spring 67 3 - s q u a r e - m i l e Lake. The guides Ocala National Forare engaging, enest, also known as tertaining, safethe Florida Black ty-conscious and Bear Scenic Byway, ensure their guests denoted by numer- The canyons of Ocala offer mountain-like eleva- are safe, smiltions and breath-taking views. ous bear crossing ing and flying the signs along State Route 40. whole way! If you’ve never been zip linThe Ocala National Forest boasts hik- ing, it’s fun, smooth, fast, safe and exhiling trails, canoe runs, over 600 lakes arating, and the perfect way to literally and even 19th-century homesteads to harness your fears. explore. Florida fisherman can enjoy the If you have the time and need a litRodman Reservoir, one of the best large- tle more adrenaline, the Big Cliff Canmouth bass lakes in Florida. yon tour is for you. With nine zip lines Drive further, through the lovely, can- up to 1,150 feet long, two sky bridges opied roads, and you’ll end up at the (one bridge is 100 feet in length and will ultimate destination: Canyons Zip Line challenge your resolve) and a rappel off and Adventure Park. Built atop a flood- of the final platform, you’ll be flying high ed limestone quarry, this 100-acre park and zipping at heights of over 130 feet. with 100-foot elevation changes, sits Zip line participants must weigh bein Big Cliff Canyon and offers multiple tween 70-270 pounds. Reservations are treetop zip lines above and through the required, and don’t forget your closedtree canopy. Choose three, five or nine toed shoes and your sense of adventure. zip packages, or even a full moon night- Photo packages and even GoPro rentals time tour. Closer to the ground, park-go- (the camera is mounted on your helmet) ers may choose horseback riding, kayak are available. For more information and tours or gem mining. to make reservations, visit www.zipthThe most popular tour is the Tree- ecanyons.com or call 352-351-ZIPS top Express, a five-zip-line, two-sky- (9477).

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Page 40

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

2023 GASPARILLA BOWL RETURNS TO RAYMOND JAMES STADIUM

By Libby Hopkins

Entering its 15th coaches and fans.” year, the Union Home This year’s game Mortgage Gasparilwill be the only game la Bowl has become to play on December a December holiday 22, so all eyes will be tradition for both on Tampa Bay. “We’re local families and hoping to match or out-of-town visitors. exceed last year’s “Each year, a week viewership of more jam-packed with famthan 3 million which ily fun and community was the number one events culminates in rated pre-Christmas a premier postseason bowl in the country,” matchup on the gridGlaser said. iron,” said Scott GlaThe game was the ser, executive director top program during The Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla of the Gasparilla Bowl. its telecast window Bowl will be played at Raymond James “It is the official kickand ranked in the Stadium on Friday, December 22. off for Gasparilla seatop five in viewership son.” among all non-New Year’s six bowls. A The Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla highlight for both visiting teams and colBowl will be played at Raymond James lege football fans, the 2023 edition of the Stadium on Friday, December 22 at bowl will once again feature a coveted 6:30 p.m. Owned and operated by ESPN time slot and will be the only game played Events, the game will air on ESPN and that night. welcome two teams from among the With the game occurring during Southeastern Conference (SEC), Atlan- Christmas week, local businesses and tic Coast Conference (ACC), American fan groups have a unique opportunity to Athletic Conference (AAC), Big 12, Con- host holiday parties or family gatherings, ference USA, Mid-American Conference including pregame tailgates and stadium (MAC), Mountain West, Pacific 12 Confer- seating options. “Our hopes for this year ence (Pac-12) and independent programs, is to field two great college programs that Brigham Young University and Army. bring their competitive edge to Raymond “We’re thrilled to announce the return of James Stadium for the fans,” Glaser said. the Gasparilla Bowl, which has become a Tickets will go on sale to the general beloved tradition for football fans here in public in December. “We encourage evTampa,” said Glaser. “We’re looking for- eryone to join the invasion and secure exward to another fantastic year of thrill- clusive first access to the best seats by ing competition and exciting moments on signing up for the bowl’s presale at www. and off the field for the student athletes, gasparillabowl.com,” Glaser said.

Volume 18, Issue 11

TIPS TO EASE THE STRESS OF HOLIDAY TASKS Staff Report

(StatePoint) From greeting cards to seasonal to-do lists, there’s a lot to write down and keep track of during the holidays. Use these tips and recommendations to reduce stress while you complete these important tasks: • To-do lists: Whether you’re listing the gifts you must buy for loved ones, the groceries you need to prepare a holiday feast or the tasks you must complete before your guests arrive, writing and referencing a lengthy to-do list can be anxiety provoking. However, choosing the colors of your stationery and writing utensils wisely can ease these feelings and spur you to action. The colors in the G2 gel ink pen’s limited-edition Harmony Collection were formulated to create an oasis of calm. Color psychology suggests that gray represents neutrality and balance; iris blue is meditative with a touch of magic; apricot orange balances energy and is relaxing; salmon signifies hope, health and happiness; grape connotes harmony; and rose pink inspires grace, gratitude and joy. Choose colors according to your mood, then keep your lists posted prominently, such as on your desk or at eye level on the fridge so you stay on top of tasks. After completing an item, cross it out for a sense of immediate accomplishment.

• Calendars and planners: Plans can change quickly during the hectic holiday season, so be prepared to adapt to evolving schedules while keeping everyone in the family updated. When entering such seasonal events as holiday office parties, cookie swaps and school plays into your cal-

endar or planner, be sure to use ink that erases cleanly so you can revise repeatedly as needed. Pilot’s FriXion line of erasable pens comes in a variety of hues, making them a great choice for vibrant and easy color coding.

• Gift tags: Sometimes, it’s the littlest details that count the most. To ensure loved ones find their names clearly on all the items they receive from you this holiday season, be sure to use a rolling ball pen, such as the Precise Deco pen, to allow for clean lines, even on small gift tags. To personalize gift tags a bit, draw a cute little doodle or cartoon specific to each gift recipient, such as their favorite seasonal symbols, animals or abstract designs.

• Holiday cards: The holiday season is the perfect time to catch friends and family up on the events of the past year. While all that note writing is a beautiful way to stay connected to the people that matter most, it can lead to writing fatigue. To write and address your greeting cards with more ease and less stress, use a tool such as Dr. Grip, a wide-body ergonomic pen with a comfortable rubber grip. Its smooth-writing ink dries quickly to help avoid smears, so your sentiments won’t get muddled. To prepare envelopes in bulk, use a wet cotton ball to moisten the glue seal, then press firmly down on each envelope. Post your notes using fun, festive seasonal stamps.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

November 2023

Page 41

IMPACT HOSTS KATE SPADE PURSE BINGO TO SUPPORT CHILDREN AND PARENTS

By Makenzie Atkins Noel Grab your girls and tion items and raffle join us in Riverview tickets will directly for a night of friends benefit the Impact and fun while also Program. This nonsupporting a great profit youth develcause. opment program Join the Impact has been dedicated Program Inc. on to educating, equipThursday, November Not only do you have a chance to support ping and empower30 at The Regent in the Impact Program, but guests will also ing students on how Riverview from 6-9 to make positive life have a chance to win great prizes. p.m. for an exciting choices and avoid evening of Designer high-risk behaviors for Purse Bingo. Not only over 23 years. With do you have a chance classroom education, to win a Kate Spade dethe Impact Program signer purse and many reaches out to teens, other great prizes, but parents, teachers and you can also support a youth leaders, presentnoble cause. ing the importance of Tickets are $50 and healthy lifestyles and include 10 rounds of relationships. bingo and a variety of The funds raised at food and beverages Designer Purse Bingo (this is an alcohol-free will support Impact’s This year, all of the designer purses event). If you’re feeling ongoing programs that will be Kate Spade, and guests have at lucky, you will also be serve students and least 10 chances to win. able to purchase addiparents in Hillsborough tional game packs, which are sold in sets County. These resources will enable Imof three. Doors open at 6 p.m. and bingo pact to continue classroom and parent kicks off at 7 p.m. This holiday night of presentations, encouraging positive, fun will also include raffles and a silent healthy lifestyle choices. auction.

Impact’s Designer Purse Bingo offers a “Impact has been serving the commu- delightful evening of fun, but most impornity for the past 23 years and is support- tantly it allows the opportunity to make ed by businesses, individuals, civic and a meaningful contribution to the Impact other organizations,” said Angie Kagey, Program’s mission of fostering healthier Impact executive director. “The over- lifestyles and relationships among youth. whelming support of the community alThe Regent is located at 6347 Watlows our staff and volunteers to continue son Rd. in Riverview, near Winthrop. For to make an ‘Impact’ in the lives of stu- more information, please contact Kagey dents and parents.” at akagey@whatisimpact.com or visAll proceeds from ticket sales, auc- it www.whatisimpact.com.

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Page 42

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

BRANDON BAND NASTY SAVAGE CELEBRATES 41 YEARS WITH OVERSEAS TOUR

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Brandon band Nastraveled from Germaty Savage is excited ny, France, Russia as to celebrate 41 years well as other Europeof playing together. To an countries. memorialize this epic “We enjoy playing milestone, the band is our music, being with touring Belgium and the guys, seeing old Holland to play for friends, making new their many fans overones, media coverage, seas. The band has rephotographers’ imagleased five albums and es, the travel, the chalhave toured all over the lenge to deliver the world. music and the stage Brandon band Nasty Savage, still bringing The band has previshow,” said Galletti, energy and excitement to the heavy metal ously toured Europe, who is turning 62 in stages more than 40 years later. including their time in December.

1988 with shows in PoThe band consists of land behind the iron curtain.

Galletti, also known as Nasty When they were beginning, Ronnie; Scott Carino on bass Nasty Savage toured with 60 guitar; Jim Coker on drums; as shows in 65 days across the well as Pete Sykes and Dave United States. A few years Orman on guitar. ago, they headlined music fesGalletti explained that their tivals in Lima, Peru; Santiago, stage show has always been Chili; and Mexico. However, they found they an extreme and true performance. had loyal fans across Europe.

“Nasty Savage is a mix between pro “It’s always exciting to continue and to wrestling meets Jim Morrison meets a mogo back to something you created years tivational speaker meets Slayer,” said Galago and play to hard-core loyal fans but to letti. “We take people on a trip like a roller also capture new fans of younger demo- coaster of emotion and it will burn images graphic,” said lead singer Ron Galletti. “To in people’s brains.” travel to Holland and Belgium with Nasty Nasty Savage is lining up future dates in Savage in 2023 is a marvelous experience, 2024 to play their popular heavy metal mu100 percent.” sic in Tampa.

The Heavy Metal Maniacs Festival was “The music is the power. It’s the most held just outside Amsterdam, Holland. important thing on that live stage,” said The band headlined this two-day event Galletti. that drew more than 1,000 fans. While in For more information visit www.nasBelgium, the band headlined a club full of tysavage.com or Facebook search for Nasty long-time Nasty Savage fans. Concertgoers Savage.

Volume 18, Issue 11

BELL CREEK ACADEMY GRADUATE IS FIRST ALUMNUS TEACHER AND HEAD COACH

By Jane Owen

In 2017, Chanin the classroom dler Elsner gradunext to his. He said ated as part of Bell Elsner’s leadership Creek Academy’s skills are evident (BCA) first graduatin the way he dediing class. Bell Creek cates himself to his Academy is a charter students and playschool in Riverview ers. that is recognized for Bell Creek Academy head basketball coach “Coach Elsner its high standards for Chandler Elsner inspires students on and genuinely cares. He academic achieveis organized and off the court. ment. BCA has an innovative academic knows how to make learning enjoyable environment that includes being part of for the students. I know there’s an addthe Cambridge program. By design, BCA ed layer of pressure when one returns to provides teaching techniques to meet the their alma mater to teach or coach, and individual needs of students. The focused coach Elsner is doing both well,” Leadingattention Elsner received in high school ham said. gave him the skills to follow his passions.

Elsner’s decision to teach evolved in He graduated from Florida College with a college while pursuing a history degree.

Bachelor of Arts in history in 2022. That Inspired by his aunt, teacher Deanna Insame year, Elsner returned to the school gram, he decided to apply his love of hisas the first alumnus to be on staff as a tory in the classroom. teacher. This year, Elsner took the helm as “I found in studying history there are the school’s head boys’ basketball coach, no shortcuts. You have to take time to taking over a program that won its first process the information you are given,” 3A District 7 championship in 2022.

Elsner said. “That has made its way into The principal of Bell Creek Academy, Dr. coaching basketball and my classroom. I Margaret Fahringer, said the milestone is adapt the lessons from the past.” both sentimental and profound. Elsner’s Elsner’s past at BCA includes being a academic success plays out firsthand on student and basketball guard. From bascampus and is as an asset to the school. ketball to the classroom, he embodies the “The great thing is, Chandler came academic rigor of the school and the pasthrough in our atmosphere of high ex- sion he learned from his favorite coach. pectations. We work very hard with our “The one coach I pull from the most is expectations. He was raised with it,” my dad. I pull motivation from him and Fahringer said. “He is one of our youngest getting kids to not only believe in you as teachers and he has a very good rapport coach but believe in themselves,” Elsner with the students. They respect him.” said.

Fahringer said Elsner’s roles as both Elsner is the first alumnus to return coach and teacher enable him to teach to the school as a teacher and head dedication to goals. BCA head girls’ bas- coach. His legacy will be his passion to ketball coach Charles Leadingham wit- work to the betterment of whoever is in nesses Elsner’s success on the court and front of him.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

November 2023

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 43

TAMPA’S MAJESTIC MOVIE PALACE CELEBRATES THE SEASON WITH CLASSIC MOVIES AND A VISIT FROM SANTA

THE VILLAGE PLAYERS WILL PRESENT THE TRIAL OF EBENEZER SCROOGE THIS DECEMBER

It is almost the most No holiday season wonderful time of the would be complete year. You can get into without a showing the spirit of the holiday of It’s a Wonderful season by visiting TamLife (1946). You can pa’s most historic thesee this classic beater, the Tampa Theatre, ginning on Friday, and participating in its December 15 at 7 Holiday Classics Movie p.m. There will be Kick off the holiday season with a visit with Series. This will begin showings on Saton Sunday, November Santa as the Tampa Theatre kicks off its annu- urday, December 26 and run through al Holiday Classics Movie Series on Sunday, 16 and Sunday, November 26. You can get a free photo courtesy January 7, 2024.

December 17 at 3 of series sponsor Bank of America.

Jill Witecki with and 7 p.m. on both Tampa Theatre said, days. Then, you can “When you visit Tampa see the film at 7 p.m.

Theatre, you are not just from Monday, Decoming for a movie, you are coming for an cember 18 through Thursday, December 21. experience.”

Tampa Theatre will offer a sing-along Witecki added, “One of the brightest and White Christmas on Sunday, December 24 most beloved of those experiences is the tra- at 3 p.m. Ring in the new year with a showdition of sharing favorite holiday films on the ing of Rent on Sunday, December 31 at 3 big screen with family and friends and sing- p.m. The Holiday Classics Movie Series will ing along to holiday carols with the Mighty end on January 7, 2024, with a sing-along Wurlitzer Theatre Organ before the show.” Frozen at 3 p.m.

The Holiday Classics Movie Series will kick Tickets for the sing-alongs are $14.50 off on November 26 with the 1947 classic ($11.50 for members). All others are $10 Miracle on 34th Street at 3 p.m. Before ($7 for members). You can get tickets at the film, guests are invited to meet Santa the Franklin Street Box Office or online at Claus himself and take home a free 4-inch https://tampatheatre.org/. by 6-inch commemorative photo. The opporTampa Theatre is also partnering with the tunity to see Santa starts at 2 p.m. in the Junior League of Tampa this holiday season. beautifully restored Tampa Theatre lobby.

You are asked to bring disposable diapers, On Sunday, December 3, come see Nation- wipes and diaper cream to families in need. al Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation from 1989 You can also purchase items off the Junior at 3 p.m. Then, The Grinch (2018) will be on League of Tampa’s Amazon Wish List. the big screen on Sunday, December 10 at The Tampa Theatre is located at 711 N. 3 p.m.

Franklin St. in Tampa.

The Village Players of Scrooge encounters his Valrico will present The dead partner, Jacob Marley, Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge in his door knocker and his this December. The play is bedchamber. Marley also a humorous continuation shadows Scrooge around, of Charles Dickens’ classic and as Scrooge sees it, it is for the holiday season and downright stalking on Maris great entertainment for ley’s part. the whole family. The Trial Pierce said, “The cast of Ebenezer Scrooge was and crew of The Trial of written by Mark Brown.

Ebenezer Scrooge are not Gail Pierce, director of just talented. In fact, they this production and presare a unique, all-volunteer The Village Players will ident/producer of The ensemble of spirited indiVillage Players, said, “Bring- present The Trial of Ebenezer viduals who bring an amazing The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge this December. This ing energy and humor to humorous continuation of Scroogee to our community the stage. Each member has Charles Dickens’ classic is is a joy and a privilege. We inpoured their heart into ungreat for the whole family. vite everyone to join us for an derstanding the nuances of evening that celebrates the enduring spirit their characters, ensuring that every laugh of Dickens’ message, with a comic twist that and twist is delivered with precision and only writer Mark Brown could envision. It warmth.” will leave you laughing as you realize there The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge will be peris more than one way to look at Ebenezer formed on Friday, December 1, 8 and 15, and Scrooge.” on Saturday, December 9 and 16 at 8 p.m.

The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge is a humor- Matinees will be offered on Sunday, Decemous and inventive sequel to Dickens’ A Christ- ber 3, 10 and 17 at 3 p.m. mas Carol. In this comedic reimagining, Tickets are available now for purchase.

Ebenezer Scrooge takes the three Christmas General admission is priced at $18, with disSpirits — past, present and future — along counted rates of $15 for seniors (ages 60with his departed business partner, Ja- 65), military personnel and students with cob Marley, to trial. They are charged with ID. Reserved seating is available for groups kidnapping, trespassing, bodily endanger- of 10 or more. ment and even breaking and entering, just To secure your seat, visit https://thevilto name a few. As the trial unfolds, it casts lageplayersvalrico.com/. For more personthe spirits as self-professed do-gooders who alized service, please call the box office at only approximate the future.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 11

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