Osprey Observer Brandon/Winthrop January 2022

Brandon/Winthrop

21

January 2022 Volume 17, Issue 1

Ph: 657-2418

SEE AD ON PAGE 34

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS

METROPOLITAN MINISTRIES VOLUNTEER DONATES FOOD TO NEARLY 300 FAMILIES IN NEED

HOMETOWN PAPER CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF POSITIVE COMMUNITY NEWS

By Marie Gilmore, Publisher

By Lily Belcher

Brandon Regional Hospital’s Jill Lansky volunteered at Metropolitan Ministries’ holiday tent.

Osprey Observer 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, FL 33596

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In 2020, Jill Lansky volunteered at Metropolitan Ministries’ holiday tent. After volunteering with the nonprofit organization based out of Tampa, Lansky felt compelled to find a way to provide more substantial food to families in need.

“I spend time volunteering … and it warmed my heart to pack boxes with food for families that are struggling in our community,” said Lansky.

Lansky spent all of 2021 searching for someone who could provide 1,000 pounds of potatoes for struggling families. She remembered that one of her family friends, Zach Hawkins, a Bloomingdale High School graduate, manages a potato farm in South Carolina.

With the help of Hawkins, Lansky was able to get in contact with Walther Farms, who was willing to donate the potatoes.

The only problem was that she had to find a way to pick up 1,000 pounds of potatoes.

“As luck would have it, Zach was traveling to Tampa at the time [and] they were ready and delivered the donated potatoes himself,” said Lansky. “I am so grateful

and proud of Zach and for his hand in giving back to his hometown.”

Lansky was able to help nearly 300 families with the potatoes by donating a large bag to feed each family. A year after the initial idea, Lansky and Hawkins distributed the potatoes through Metropolitan Ministries’ holiday tent in December of 2021 to registered clients, who received a food box and toys for their children alongside the potatoes.

“I saw a need to provide something substantial that would give families more on their dinner plates. I thought potatoes would be the perfect food. There are so many ways to prepare them, and they fill bellies,” explained Lansky.

When Lansky is not volunteering with Metropolitan Ministries, which she has been doing for five years, she is working as the director of business development at Brandon Regional Hospital. Lansky helped start the mentor program for women through Metropolitan Ministries’ residential program during her time volunteering as well.

For more information on Metropolitan Ministries, contact 209-1000 or visit its website at metromin.org. For more information on how to volunteer, visit their website to fill out the interest form or contact volunteer@metromin.org.

Mark your calendars because the Florida State Fair is coming to town.

Held at the Florida State Fairgrounds from Thursday, February 10 to Wednesday, February 23, the fair offers food, fun, entertainment and even education for the whole family. See Story on Page 3.

The Osprey Observer team gathers for its recent 20th anniversary ribbon-cutting.

Photo courtesy of the Ed Booth, Huth & Booth Photography

A major milestone has been reached for the award-winning Osprey Observer Community Newspapers as we print our first edition for our 20th anniversary on Wednesday, January 5. The newspaper has been publishing local, positive community news in the Southeastern Hillsborough County area since January 5, 2001, and we couldn’t have done it without the commitment and dedication of its readers and trusted advertisers.

The Osprey Observer started out as a home-based business with a one-sheet newsletter and has grown into a corporation publishing more than 200 pages in five monthly editions with a team of more than 25 people.

The main goal when we started was to make an impact on the local community. Our idea was to get involved and to make a difference in whatever ways we could.

For our business, this has included the addition of videos, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and an active, archived website, along with the continuation of building our brand at events, festivals and with sponsorships in the community.

We recently purchased a larger office space on Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico with room for team members to meet and run the day-to-day operations of the publication.

As a community newspaper, we find that this is what sets us apart and keeps our readers interested as we cover the news.

We are supported 100 percent by local small businesses who keep us a free community newspaper and allow us to print and mail our editions each month.

Without the support of these businesses, we wouldn’t have the staff to send to cover community events nor the community office to be the hub of local information.

“My 16-year experience with the Osprey Observer has allowed me to integrate into my community in a very special way,” said Kerrie Hoening, FishHawk/Bloomingdale and Valri-

co sales. “The connections I’ve made [have] allowed me to build lasting relationships and friendships that I might have otherwise never met. The heart of this team is to support our residents, our local businesses, our charitable organizations and our community, and I have been very proud to be a part of the Osprey Observer for these past 16 years.”

In addition to concentrating on our main business, publishing newspapers that people read, we also have been active in our local chambers and encourage businesses to not just join but actually get involved and attend events.

Just in the last year, we have been recognized for our community involvement in many ways. Managing Editor/Publisher Marie Gilmore was named the 2019 Citizen of the Year for Riverview and the Osprey Observer was named the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber Business of the Year, Brandon Chamber Business of the Year and Riverview/Apollo Beach Chamber Small Business of the Year Finalist in 2019.

The best advice we can give any small business owner is to find your niche in what you do best, be the best, treat every customer like your absolute best customer and follow the general small business rules that will set you apart: Be On Time, Send a Thank-You Note, Follow Up! If it weren’t for our loyal readers and avid business supporters, we couldn’t do what we do in the community. So, from the Osprey Observer and Christian Voice team, thank you!

IN THIS ISSUE: I-75 IMPROVEMENTS..........................PG 3 NEW FOOD BANK ................................. PG 4 EYE ON BUSINESS ...................PGS 25-26 COMMUNITY ARTS......................... PGS 33

Page 2

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 17, Issue 1

January 2022

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 3

DISCOVER THE FUN AS FLORIDA STATE FAIR OPENS FEBRUARY 10

FDOT SEEKS PUBLIC INPUT ON I-75 IMPROVEMENTS

Mark your calgrilled all-beef endars because hotdog, applethe Florida State wood bacon and Fair is coming icing drizzled on to town. Held top. at the Florida To prepare to State Fairgrounds eat all the delifrom Thursday, cious fair food, February 10 to residents are Wednesday, Febinvited to parruary 23, the fair ticipate in the offers food, fun, Deep-Fried Dash entertainment 5K and Fun Run. and even educaThe run, which tion for the whole The Florida State Fair opens on Thursday, February 10. starts at 7 a.m. family. on Saturday, FebThe Florida State Fair, ruary 19, takes particifirst held in Tampa in pants through the fair 1904, has become one of grounds on the 5K and the largest events in the fun runs. state, attracting more All proceeds from than 500,000 people the Deep-Fried Dash during its 12-day run. will benefit the Florida The fair boasts the largState Fair Foundation, est midway in the USA, a a 501(c)(3) whose misrobust agricultural prosion is to improve and gram, a circus, interactive support agricultural, animal exhibits and new scientific and educaattractions each year. tional programs at the As the first state fair of the year, the Florida State Fair like Cracker Country Florida State Fair is the first to debut new Living History Museum, Ag-Venture and foods as well as all of the unique fair foods more. visitors have come to know and love.

Participants can register today at According to the fair’s website, some of https://floridastatefair.com/5K/. this year’s unique food items include the It’s affordable family fun at its best. caramel apple cinnamon roll, which is a Armbands for unlimited rides and other cinnamon roll topped with warm cinna- advance ticket deals are available online. mon apple pie topping, drizzled with warm For more information about the Florida caramel; deep fried banana pudding, which State Fair, please visit www.floridastateis donut holes topped with banana pud- fair.com or follow on Facebook, Twitter ding, whipped cream and caramel drizzled and/or Instagram. on top; and the donut dog, which consists The Florida State Fairgrounds are locatof a homemade Long John donut, freshly ed at 4800 U.S. 301 in Tampa.

Since the Hillsborough County section of Interstate 75 was completed in 1985, population growth along the highway’s path in the last 37 years now makes a timely journey from Southern Hillsborough County to points north and south a gamble because of delays caused by heavy traffic, as well as the driving mishaps that road congestion sometimes plays a role in.

To address the need for improvements to I-75 as it passes through Hillsborough and Manatee Counties, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is developing projects to increase the traffic capacity and overall safety on a 41- Improvements being planned for Interstate 75 will be the subject of an FDOT-hosted public hearing on January 27 at mile stretch of the highway, and it is the Hilton Garden Inn in Riverview. inviting the public to a hearing on the proposed work. The hearing is important for people to take an interest in part of Project Development and Environ- how their transportation needs are being ment Studies the agency is conducting to met. evaluate proposed improvements.

“The feedback of the community is very There are two projects under develop- important to FDOT with every project we ment. One starts at Moccasin Wallow Rd. study so we can take into account the in Manatee County and goes north for 23 needs and concerns of the citizens,” she miles, ending south of U.S. 301 in Hills- wrote in an email. borough County. The other extends for 18 The public hearing will take place on miles, from south of U.S. 301 to north of January 27 from 5:30-7:30 p.m., with the Bruce B. Downs Blvd. in Hillsborough Coun- main presentation starting at 6:30 p.m. It ty. will be held at the Hilton Garden Inn in RivProposed features include the addition erview, located at 4328 Garden Vista Dr. of 12-foot express lanes in each direction Virtual participants must register on the in the median as well as improving safety FDOT I-75 project website at www.fdotdfeatures and stormwater management in- 7studies.com to participate. frastructure.

Project information is available for reThe public is invited to participate in the view on the I-75 project website and in process by attending a hearing on Thurs- person at the Brandon Regional Library and day, January 27. The hearing will be held in the Ruskin Branch Library until Monday, person with online capability.

February 7. Materials can also be viewed Kristen Carson, public information di- at FDOT District Seven’s office at 11201 N. rector of FDOT’s District Seven, said it is McKinley Dr. in Tampa.

By Kate Quesada

By Brad Stager

(Take Out Only)

YBOR Room

Now OPEN!

27 Years in Brandon!

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 17, Issue 1

NEW FOOD BANK OPENS AT CONGREGATION BETH SHALOM

FORGOTTEN ANGELS LAUNCHES RAFFLE TO WIN FORD RANGER AND HARLEY

Congregation donation box Beth Shalom located at in Brandon rethe entrance cently opened a to the temfood bank for the ple. If you Greater Brandon would like area. Food inseto donate curity can affect and cannot anyone: neighbors, drop off on friends, children Fridays, the and the elderly. food bank Many working vo l u n te e r s people are finding can arrange themselves strugfor a pickup.

Congregation Beth Shalom, located at 706 Bryan Rd. in gling to put food Brandon, has opened a food bank that is available to anyone Ginsberg is in need in the community. on the table with also reaching the rising prices of groceries and other nec- out to the community in hopes of seeking essary items. A large population of people in additional volunteers by a local Scout troop the community are simply one layoff, trag- or students looking for volunteer hours to edy or natural disaster away from needing assist in the distribution on Sundays. assistance. According to Meral Ginsberg, The food bank is normally open for distrithe congregation’s food bank outreach co- bution of the donated items to those in need ordinator, Beth Shalom honors and serves on the third Sunday of each month from 1-3 the community compassionately and free of p.m. including January 16, February 20, prejudice.

March 20 and May 15. With the conflict on “We are asking for food donations and Easter, the pickup date in April is Sunday, other personal products such as soap, fem- April 10. There is no need to call ahead or inine supplies, toothpaste, shampoo and to register. Those in need can simply drive deodorant,” said Ginsberg. “Our new rabbi, to Congregation Beth Shalom on the dates/ Robert Lefkowitz, is very supportive of this times listed and the items will be loaded new mission. We have a whole classroom into your car by food bank volunteers. that is dedicated to the food bank supplies “When you give from the heart, you get and we are hoping to fill the entire room back,” said Ginsberg. “Congregation Beth with donations.”

Shalom is here for the community and to Some of the other items needed are help the community. It’s a blessing to give boxed food, canned goods, can openers, and help.” boxed milk, boxed juice as well as cleaning Congregation Beth Shalom is located at products and laundry detergent. People can 706 Bryan Rd. in Brandon. For further inalso donate via check (with food bank not- formation about donations or volunteer ed) or by gift card. Donations are being ac- opportunities, contact Meral Ginsberg at cepted on Fridays from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. with a 690-5713.

Forgotten Angels is a nonprofit that provides resources and support to support children that have aged out of foster care and are struggling to achieve housing, education and life skills.

Many children that lived in foster care until the age of 18 find themselves with no home, no transportation and little hope for the future. Forgotten Angels will be raffling a new 2021 Ford Ranger Tremor with the full off-road package. All ticket sales will go to benefit Forgotten Angels.

That’s where Forgotten Angels steps in. The orand sources of income, with some even ganization purchased 12 acres of land in putting money aside for retirement.

Valrico several years ago, and it currently “As a foundation, we are blessed to have houses 17 residents in tiny homes built on one of the best communities in the world the property. as supporters,” said Tyler. “That would be “We are proud to say that we are open- the motorcycle community. Through our ing new facilities in the near future in At- motorcycle rallies, motorcycle camp outs, lanta, Georgia; St. Augustine, Florida; an- sponsored rides and sponsors like Harley other facility in Valrico,” said David Tyler, Davidson, we have been able to grow fastexecutive director. “The hard work that er than we ever anticipated.” goes into the young men that come to us In order to continue funding and growis paying off in spades. Every single resi- ing, Forgotten Angels is raffling off a branddent of Forgotten Angels is either working new 2021 Ford Ranger Tremor with the full time at great companies like Hoppen full off-road package. This incredible truck Home Entertainment, Smart Surfaces and, will be won on Saturday, March 19. There very soon, Tampa Bay Fisheries, or attend- will also be a second-place raffle winner of ing Hillsborough Community College or a Low Rider S Harley Davidson motorcycle. taking online college courses. We are also Raffle tickets are $25 for one ticket, and proud to have a graduating JRTC member $100 for five tickets. All the money donatat Newsome High School making us very ed to this raffle goes to benefit the Forgotproud.” ten Angels children, build more tiny homes Forgotten Angels takes these children in and expand the circle of compassion. and teaches them life skills, including the To purchase a raffle ticket, visit https:// opportunity to build their own tiny home, rafflecreator.com/pages/47938/ford-rangopen a bank account, build credit, get a er-raffle-fundraiser. To find out how you job and transportation as well as love, care can help, email david@forgottenangelsand guidance from being part of a family. florida.org, call 728-0461 or visit www.

All 17 residents have their own vehicles forgottenangelsflorida.org.

By Kelly Wise Valdes

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

January 2022

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GRADUATION RATES HIGHEST IN HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY HISTORY Staff Report

7 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico, FL 33592 • (office) 657-2418 • (fax) 657-4469 MANAGING EDITOR

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Marie Gilmore

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Melody Gershkoff

rate in our district at 98.9 percent, an increase again from last year.

“I am so excited for our community and our organization for obtaining the highest graduation rate in district history. This is in direct correlation to the hard work and dedication exhibited by our students, caregivers, teachers, Hillsborough County Public Schools is celebrating a graduation rate school leaders, school of 89.2 percent. counselors, support professionals and disHillsborough County Public Schools is trict staff. We will continue to work tirecelebrating an achievement even amid a lessly to prepare full option graduates pandemic, with a graduation rate of 89.2 that can have an immediate impact on percent. This number represents the highour community,” said Hillsborough Counest graduation rate in the district’s histoty Public Schools Superintendent Addison ry, capping off two consecutive years of Davis. graduation gains during one of the most Hillsborough County Public Schools contumultuous times in our educational systinue to narrow the achievement gap in tem. key areas, including: The majority of high schools demonAfrican American students had a 1.9 strated tremendous accomplishments percentage point increase in graduation throughout this past school year due to rates, rising almost 10 percentage points the ongoing commitment from schoolin the last five years. based leaders, teachers, counselors, and Hispanic learners achieved a 7.4 persupport professionals. Highlights include: centage point increase over the last five Spoto High School has, for the first time years. in its history, reached a 92.1 percent gradStudents with disabilities have steadily uation rate. This represents a 7.2 percentincreased their graduation rates 16.6 perage point year-to-year increase, the largcentage points over the last five years. est improvement in the district.

Economically disadvantaged students Armwood High School demonstrated illustrated impressive gains, with a 3.9 a 5.5 percentage point year-to-year inpercentage point year-over-year jump—9 crease with an 87.9 percent graduation percentage points over five years. rate.

To learn more, visit www.hillsboroughNewsome High School once again has schools.org. the distinction of the highest graduation

Cammie Yick

300-5152

810-8106

mgershkoff@ospreyobserver.com

cyick@ospreyobserver.com

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Page 6

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 17, Issue 1

HCC OFFERS WORKFORCE CERTIFICATE SCHOLARSHIPS THROUGH GRANT

LOCAL TEEN RUNS MO’ MUNCHIES VENDING MACHINE BUSINESS

The Florida Department of Education The student is responsible for the first awarded Hillsborough Community Col- one-third of the tuition at the time of enlege (HCC) Institute for Corporate and rollment, then the Open Door Scholarship Continuing Education (ICCE) $993,813 Program pays the remaining two-thirds in funding through the Open Door Grant of the tuition if the student successfully Program (Open completes Door) which will the course run through Sepand protember 30, 2023. vides the “The Open Door results of grant will provide their indusscholarship funds try certito eligible stufication to dents at HillsborHCC-ICCE. ough Community Funds from College Institute the profor Corporate The Florida Department of Education awarded Hillsbor- gram may and Continuing ough Community College (HCC) Institute for Corporate be used to and Continuing Education (ICCE) $993,813 in funding Education,” said cover the through the Open Door Grant Program (Open Door) Director of ICCE cost of tuwhich will run through September 30, 2023.

Ryan Buckthorition, fees, pe. “The partial exa m i n at i o n , scholarships will books and maexpand the affordterials. ability of workforce Hillsborough training and credenCommunity tials to 600-plus Florida residents in tar- College serves more than 42,000 stugeted and growing industries. Our focus dents annually at its five campuses lohas always been to empower residents of cated throughout Tampa Bay. The college Tampa Bay with opportunities to achieve is accredited by the Commission on Coltheir career aspirations, and Open Door leges of the Southern Association of Colhelps us accomplish that mission.” leges and Schools. For more information, During the 2021 Florida Legislative visit hccfl.edu.

Session, Section 1009.895, Florida StatFounded in 1998, the Institute for Corutes, was created under House Bill 1507 porate and Continuing Education is Hills(2021) to establish Open Door. The Open borough Community College’s corporate Door Scholarship Program at ICCE sup- training arm that provides customized ports unemployed, underemployed or business solutions for local companies furloughed students in completing short- and individuals. term and technical education credentialFor questions regarding scholarship ing courses. The goal of the program is for criteria, how to apply and upcoming inparticipants to successfully attain a work- formation sessions please visit tampaforce certificate in high-demand fields. training.com/open-door.

At age 17, Newsome High most kids are School, and has seniors in high since expanded, school worrying having a total about grades, of six machines. exams and the He plans to connext Friday night tinue expandfootball game. ing, and maybe De’Undre Lee, a even bring on local Newsome some employHigh School seees to help as nior, does all he grows. that while runLee’s mom, ning his own Lolita, proudly vending machine expressed, “Dre business. has an unrelentInspiration for ing spirit, he his business, Mo’ works hard and Munchies, struck is so full of new while playing ideas and venvideo games one ues concerning night with his multiple strains friends. Running of income. He’s a vending maway ahead of De’Undre Lee shows off his Mo’ Munchies T-shirt with chine business the curve as an one of his machines. in-game got entrepreneur him thinking, “If this is so much fun in a and we can’t wait to see what he has in game, what would it be like in real life?” store in his future.”

He did some research and, after that, While Lee is very focused on his busithere was no stopping him. ness, he does still allow himself time to First creating and organizing lists just be a teenager. When he is not sendof businesses, Lee set out to make his ing emails and planning for his business, idea a reality. He first took those lists of Lee enjoys running and playing basketpossible businesses and reached out to ball as well as reading and spending them, eventually scoring the opportunity time outdoors. He also likes researchto place his first machine at a real estate ing topics that interest him for fun. His office through the help of his mother. goals include being a better person in all “There is not a decision made or an aspects of his life and wanting to possiemail sent that she doesn’t help me with, bly achieve a business degree. and I am so grateful to God for her,” he For more information, email mo. said. munchiesvending@gmail.com or find Lee was given the opportunity to place the business on Facebook and Instagram a vending machine at his school, Joe E. under ‘Mo’ Munchies Vending.’

Staff Report

By Ariana Pedraza

VISIT ANY OF OUR 15 LOCATIONS OR

Expiration 02/01/2022

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January 2022

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

HILLSBOROUGH CLERK OF COURT OFFICE REOPENS AFTER ALMOST TWO YEARS

By Lily Belcher On January 3, Brandon the Hillsborough Regional Clerk of Court Service Cenand Comptrolter offers ler’s Brandon locivil, crimication reopened nal and famto the public afily courts, ter being closed as well as for nearly two a court for years due to ticket and the coronavirus probation shutdown. p ay m e n t s .

“We have a Customers Brandon Regional Service Center is open to the public better undercan also get following a 22-month shutdown due to the coronavirus. standing of how passports, to return to work safely,” home solicitation permits explained Senior Direcand marriage licenses/ tor of Communications ceremonies at the Branand Marketing Carson don office.

Chambers. “As people “We have seen a rise begin to resume life and move around their in interest in traveling more, so the need communities differently, there is an ex- for passports has increased, and marriagpectation of providing more services and es ceremonies are resuming as well. The supporting the needs of the customers in resumption of more activities are happena safe, healthy way, as determined by CDC ing while still being health conscious,” said guidelines, local health experts, and the Chambers. county and court orders for building utiliIn order to make customers and employzation and access protocols.” ees comfortable despite lingering concerns Brandon Regional Service Center, lo- surrounding the coronavirus, the Brandon cated at Pauls Dr., served around 3,000 location will regularly clean and disinfect customers a month but closed in March the office. Masks and social distancing of 2020 and redirected customers to the will be optional for customers utilizing the downtown and Plant City offices. Brandon Clerk of Circuit Court’s services. Customers employees were relocated to these offices have the option of booking an appointment as well, instead of being laid off, and they for a specific time and date for marriage will now return to their original office near licenses and ceremonies and for passport Oakfield Dr. services as well.

Chambers noted that they have seen usuBrandon Regional Service Center is loal and natural employment changes with cated at 311 Pauls Dr. in Brandon. For more retirements and relocations over the two information on the reopening, the services years but said the Brandon employees “are offered or to book an appointment, visit thrilled to go back to the office.” hillsclerk.com or call 276-8100.

Page 7

HOPE FOR HURTING PARENTS AT CENTERPOINT CHURCH

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Many families in our community have been struggling through difficult times over the past two years. In the middle of a worldwide crisis, some families also have found themselves in personal crises. If you are a parent of teenager or young adult that may be struggling with self-injury, mental illness, depression, bullying, identity or destructive choices, you probably feel broken, powerless and isolated, but Centerpoint Church wants you to know that you are not alone.

Hope for Hurting Parents is a national organization aimed at providing resources for parents hurting over destructive behaviors or choices of their teen to adult children.

Centerpoint Church hosts a local support group affiliated with the Hope for Hurting Parents organization.

The program is facilitated by Angela Parker, director of communications at Centerpoint Church, along with her husband.

“My husband and I decided to create this group because we have walked through difficult parenting seasons with our teens, and we quickly learned how isolating it can be,” said Parker. “We looked for safe places to talk and vent about our experiences and work through our own emotions, and we found that there weren’t many resources in this area, so we decided to create one.”

This group is open to the entire community and there is no need to register. The meetings are free, but there is an optional parent resource book that can be purchased, though it is not required in order to attend or participate.

“Meetings begin by introducing ourselves by first name and reviewing the ground

rules—that everything discussed at these meetings is confidential,” said Parker.

“From there, we ask for updates from those who want to share—but sharing is completely optional. After that, we have a time of learning and discussion— these lessons are based on equipping parents with coping skills and creating a framework to talk about their experiences. At the end of our meetings, we have a time for prayer for those who want to participate.”

“The best part of facilitating this group is seeing other parents’ shoulders relax and let their guard down and settle into the fact that they aren’t alone,” said Parker. “So many people come to us hesitant to share, guarded against all of the judgmental opinions or advice that they are afraid they will get—again. But when they come, they experience a place where they can talk freely, where no one is trying to ‘fix’ their kid, where they can share the messy feelings that come with parenting a ‘prodigal’ and feel safe from judgment.”

The biggest thing Parker wants people to know is that parenting teens is difficult in the best of circumstances, but when teens make destructive choices, it can be incredibly stressful and dredge up a lot of painful emotions including fear, shame, anger and helplessness.

The meetings will take place year-round beginning in January every second and fourth Tuesday from 7-8 p.m. at Centerpoint Church, located at 1720 S. St Cloud Ave. in Valrico. For more information, visit www. centerpointfl.org or call 689-1906.

Page 8

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 17, Issue 1

GET THE DIRT: RESOLUTIONS ARE UPON US!

BY LYNN BARBER, FLORIDA-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPING™ AGENT, UF/IFAS EXTENSION HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY

Many of us ponder New Year’s resolutions and come up with novel ideas.

Some follow through, implement and stick with their resolutions. Others try for a month or so, then find reasons to stop.

My curiosity got the best of me, so I asked some family members, friends and co-workers for their alleged commitments to a New Year’s resolution. Many were practical, well thought through and humorous.

The best comments, in my opinion, follow: Stop planting. Give away more plants. Work on the side yard and get it back to how it used to look.

Work less, garden more. Have tools sharpened. Teach cats to pull weeds. (Challenging when you have inside felines!)

Convince friends to come over for a yard party and put them to work? (Good luck!)

Smell more flowers. Plant more vegetables and eat them.

Attend a composting, microirrigation and rainwater harvesting workshop next year to learn how to make my own soil amend-

ments and save water and money.

Do a little bit in your yard every day. Be more aware of the right location for plants (sun, shade, water).

Still weed, even though I am afraid of snakes.

For information about upcoming horticultural programs, use your browser to access our ‘Hillsborough County Extension Calendar of Events.’ Click on upcoming events, view what interests you and register for workshops.

It’s not too late to consider or commit to a New Year’s resolution. Creating one is the easy step. Making it happen and sticking to the commitment is more challenging. Good luck, and here’s to wishing all of you safe and wonderful holidays.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

January 2022

MARDI GRAS COMES TO BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY

Staff Report

Mardi Gras is starting participate in the early at Busch Gardens lively parade; the Tampa Bay. The fun-filled, Bead Garden, New Orleans-inspired where families event started this month can stop by for and runs weekends and the opportunity select days through Sunto catch beads; day, March 6 with live the Brass Band music and entertainment and local live mufor the whole family. sic.

“Catch some festival For bands and beads from strolling per- Mardi Gras is taking place at Busch Gardens other event Tampa Bay through Sunday, March 6. formers throughout the times, visit day and get caught up in the fun as you www.buschgardenstampa.com. dance through spacious walkways,” said a Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay offers 300 recent press release. “Feast like kings and acres of attractions based on exotic exploqueens on classic Cajun cuisine as Busch rations around the world. Busch Gardens is Gardens brings the ‘Big Easy’ to Tampa a unique blend of rides, AZA-accredited zoo Bay.” with thousands of animals representing Mardi Gras-inspired food, including a more than 200 species and exciting seasignature shrimp po’ boy, hearty jambalaya sonal events all year. and gumbo; specialty sweets like iconic Busch Gardens is owned by SeaWorld beignets; as well as handcrafted cocktail Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: SEAS), a leadclassics like Hurricanes, will be available at ing theme park and entertainment compathe park. The Nola Creamery is also offer- ny providing experiences that matter and ing a new French quarter chocolate ama- inspiring guests to protect animals and the retto cheesecake waffle cone and reimag- wild wonders of the world. ined Mardi Gras waffle cone sundae and Guests can visit www.buschgardenstamBourbon Street cream and cookie. pa.com for more information. Fans can stay Festivities also include a Mardi Gras pa- up to date with park events, attractions and rade, where the Bird Gardens comes to life more by following Busch Gardens Tampa as entertainers, stilt walkers and musicians Bay on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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Page 9

JUSTON FEIST JOINS NATIVITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL AS THE NEW ATHLETIC DIRECTOR

By Lily Belcher

University of youth into caring and South Florida gradresponsible citizens,” uate Juston Feist said Feist. “He is my bigwas hired as Nativgest role model and my ity Catholic School’s inspiration for wanting new physical eduto become a PE teacher cation teacher and and make an impact in athletic director the community.” following HillsborFeist’s role as Nativough County’s winity Catholic School’s ter break. Nativiathletic director exty’s staff is aims to tends beyond the walls “prepare and inspire of the Sister Irene St. each student acaJean Gymnasium. Evdemically and spirery morning and afteritually to serve the noon, Feist assists his Juston Feist was hired as Nativity Catholic Body of Christ” and, School’s new physical education teacher and coworkers in helping athletic director in hiring Coach Feist, guide Nativity’s young they are entrusting students to and from him with the physical their classrooms during education of their stucarline and greeting the dents as well as their parents dropping off and academic and spiritupicking up their young stual education. dents. Feist plans to coach “Before being hired Nativity’s girls and boys at Nativity, my exvarsity basketball teams perience in athletics later in the year as well. was broad. I played baseball growing up all The 29-year-old coach was raised in my life and basketball competitively,” said Brandon and knew of Nativity’s prestige, Feist. “Sports have been something that’s which is what attracted him to joining been a part of my life since I was 3 years the staff, under the leadership of Principal old.”

Maureen Ringley and Pastor John Tapp.

Feist had coached high school basketball “Nativity School and Church has been in New York and Florida as well as travel and continues to be an iconic place in Branbaseball prior to joining Nativity’s faculty. don, and to have the opportunity to work Feist explained that it was his grandfather, here and give back to the community I was Tony Saladino, who inspired him to become born and raised in is truly a blessing,” said a physical education teacher through his Feist. own teaching career of over 50 years.

For more information on Nativity Catho“I wanted to be a PE teacher because of lic School, contact 698-3395 or visit Nativmy grandfather and passion to develop the ity’s website at nativitycatholicschool.org.

Page 10

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 17, Issue 1

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LEGACY ELEVEN PHO-

BLOOMINGDALE LADY BULLS BASKETBALL TEAM IS OFF TO RECORD START

Ava Knauer is an extra coach on the floor and is an excellent three-point shooter.

Joline Raposo leads the team with 10.7 points per game.

The Bloomingdale Lady Bulls basketball team is off to one of its best starts in their school’s history with a 9-0 record. According to maxpreps.com, the Lady Bulls are ranked 21 in the state of Florida and fifth in the 6A Division.

Bloomingdale made a huge statement win when they defeated defending state champion Plant 61-59 on a buzzer beater by Angelina Aberin in the second game of the season.

The win gave them confidence that they can compete with anybody and has been a measuring stick for the rest of the season. The team chemistry and passion for the game is palpable with this group of players.

“What I believe is making this season successful so far is how bonded we are as a team and the amount of work we put in to reaching our goals,” said junior guard Ava Knauer. “Five days a week, we have ‘breakfast club’ where we get shots up and work

The Bloomingdale Lady Bulls basketball team is off to one of its best starts in their school’s history with a 9-0 record.

on our weaknesses before school even starts each day.”

The team has a nice mix of young and veteran talent. The junior class is their biggest with five student-athletes, many of whom have played major roles for the team in the last three seasons. They have four seniors as well.

The Lady Bulls are a very deep and talented team that can play with up to 13 players in any given game. They wear their opponents out with their athleticism and constant ball pressure. The deep roster also allows the team to have tough, competitive practices that prepare the team for success. They will attack the rim with their dribble-drive offense and kick out to their shooters if the layup isn’t there, and they have bags that clean up the glass with ease if necessary.

“What I enjoy most about playing for Bloomingdale is that everyone is so close to

Kyrstin Wolff can score inside the paint and outside the three-point line and is a leading rebounder.

each other and there’s great team chemistry,” said junior point guard Aissatou (Aissa) Diallo. “Whenever someone is down, there’s always going to be someone to pick you up—always. One thing that I’ve learned so far at Bloomingdale that I never thought about is that every game is the biggest game of the year. Anyone can beat anyone on any given night, especially when you have a target on your back.”

Key players include senior point guard and co-captain Joline (JoJo) Raposo, junior guard Knauer, junior forward/center Kyrstin Wolff, junior point guard Diallo and senior guard and co-captain Kaylie Lewis.

“Our goal is to win a district title because I know how much it will mean to our coach, and he truly deserves it,” said Raposo. “It would mean a lot for the team because of everything we’ve been through so far. I know this is an expectation we all have for our-

Aissa Diallo is a key player, averaging 10.1 points per game.

selves.”

Bloomingdale is led by 11-year Head Coach Joel Bower, who is very excited about his team’s chances of winning its first district championship since 1995. Bower is impressed with his team’s work ethic and love of the game. His team mantra that he’s been preaching to his players is to enjoy the journey because the journey is the destination.

There is no doubt that the Lady Bulls are the team to beat in District 6A-11.

“I’m just excited for what the rest of the season will bring,” said Wolff. “Going through this with this team, my sisters, makes it even more exciting. Having such a deep bench, it doesn’t matter who is on the court, we are cheering. We know if one of us is down or off there will be another one there to pick us up.

This group is closer than any team I’ve been on. It shows on and off the court.”

January 2022

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 11

NETWORK TO END HUNGER STEPS UP FAMILY-OWNED BRYAN HINDMAN ELECTRIC TREATS CUSTOMERS LIKE FAMILY TO HELP DURING HOLIDAYS

By Michelle Caceres

By Libby Hopkins

The Tampa Bay November and once Network to End in December,” ThomHunger (TBNEH) as said. “Our second was founded in 2011 and final Holidays by 10 leaders from On Wheels event various direct serfor the 2021 holiday vice organizations, season took place on businesses and comMonday, December munity circles who 13 in Hillsborough, wanted to work Pinellas and Pasco collaboratively to Counties.” help solve hunger in The recent Giving Hillsborough, Pasco Tuesday Event held and Pinellas Counon November 30 ties. “Today, the nethelped TBNEH raise work includes over money to fund its 350 members who The Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger (TBNEH) outreach programs. come together to was founded in 2011 by 10 leaders from various “We raised $2,725 to tackle hunger in its direct service organizations, businesses and com- help provide holiday tri-county service munity circles who wanted to work collaboratively meals and gifts to area,” said TBNEH’s to help solve hunger in Hillsborough, Pasco and the homes of transPinellas Counties. program director, portation disadvanToni Thomas. “TBNEH created the first taged families,” Thomas said. and only Hunger Gap Map in the state TBNEH is currently in need of volunof Florida, which shows food supply and teers during the holiday season to help demand in the network’s tri-county area. them deliver food to those in need. “We As a collective, the network identifies and depend on volunteers for our weekly implements solutions to hunger. Some of Meals On Wheels programs, but right its programs include Meals On Wheels now, our biggest need is volunteer drivfor Kids (MOW4Kids), which provides ers for holidays,” Thomas said. “We need home-delivered groceries to children nearly 100 additional volunteers to delivwho are transportation disadvantaged er holiday meals and toys for children in or have a homebound parent, and Meals all three counties that we serve, especialOn Wheels St. Petersburg, which delivers ly Hillsborough. Volunteers can sign up at meals to senior and homebound adults.” networktoendhunger.volunteerhub.com Launched in 2020, the network’s or contact me at Toni.Thomas@networkMOW4Kids Holidays On Wheels (HOW) toendhunger.org to learn more.” program delivers food for a full holiday For those who are unable to volunteer, meal, along with toys, to transporta- donating is another great option. You can tion-disadvantaged families—in partner- visit TBNEH’s website at www.networkship with Metropolitan Ministries—for toendhunger.org to learn more about the the holidays. “We hold the event once in organization.

CAC1820162

It’s no secret that outlet, for a larger homeownership job he wanted to comes with a lot of rely on an expert in responsibilities, inthe field. cluding home mainHindman persontenance. While cerally came out to tain basic repairs like give him the quote caulking or replacing and he worked with air filters can be hanCharlene in his ofdled by the homeownfice to schedule er, when it comes to an appointment to electrical work, it’s have the work done. best to leave it to the Mailloux hired Hindprofessionals. man to install a 30“Certified electrical Call the experts at Bryan Hindman Electric to amp RV outlet and handle all of your electrical needs. contractors are exa special breaker in perts in their field and can complete work his breaker box so he could run his home, if quickly and professionally for homeowners,” necessary, with a portable generator. said Bryan Hindman, owner of Bryan Hind“If my power goes out now, I just flip one man Electric, master electrician and Florida breaker and can run my generator,” he said.

State-certified electrical contractor. “We’re “It’s increased the value of my home.” able to pull permits if necessary and make As a former small business owner himself, sure the work is completed correctly and up Mailloux is a big advocate of hiring locally to code.” owned businesses and tries to hire them A family-owned business (Hindman’s whenever possible. “Bryan Hindman Electric spouse, Heather, is the co-owner and busi- came highly recommended and they’re realness operations manager), Bryan Hindman ly knowledgeable about local building codes Electric specializes in taking care of everyday and statutes,” he said. “You can’t go wrong electrical needs, including electric repairs with them.” (faulty wiring and breaker replacement), He was also impressed that Hindman installation (of fans, recess cans, fixtures, called and followed up after the job was pendant lights, new outlets and switches) completed to make sure he was satisfied. and maintenance for homeowners, business “He’s a hands-on owner, which I really apowners and property managers. Additional preciated,” he said. services include installing surge protectors, Bryan Hindman Electric will be moving smoke detectors, security cameras, foun- soon to a new office in Riverview. “We’re extains, pool lighting and security lighting. His cited to be in our new location,” said Heathteam can also upgrade existing wiring to er. meet current electrical codes.

Bryan Hindman Electric is open Monday Riverview resident Christian Mailloux to Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. hired Hindman after getting glowing recomFor more information about Bryan Hindmendations from other homeowners. While man Electric, visit www.bryanhindmanelecMailloux said he is capable of changing an tric.com or call 672-4084.

Page 12

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

ST. PETERSBURG OPERA TO PERFORM HANDEL’S SEMELE

Staff Report

The St. Petersburg Opera Company is Performances are on February 4 at 8 making its 2022 mainstage debut with p.m., February 6 at 2 p.m. and February 8 three performances of George Frideric Han- at 7:30 p.m. This production is sponsored del’s Semele on Friday, Sunday and Tuesday, by Bud and Betty Shapiro and supported in February 4, 6 and 8 at The Palladium The- part by the Florida Department of State Diater. vision of Arts and Culture, Artistic Director Mark the Florida Council on Arts Sforzini and Stage Director and Culture and the City of Karl W. Hesser put a 1930s St. Petersburg. spin on Handel’s baroque Founded in 2007 by masterpiece with an elabMaestro Sforzini, the misorate art deco stage design sion of the St. Petersburg and period costumes.

Opera Company—a notAccompanied with a for-profit 501(c)(3) corcomic libretto by Restoporation—is to enrich the ration poet William Concultural lives of the resigreve, derived from one of dents of and visitors to the the most sexually charged Tampa Bay area by preGreco-Roman myths, Sesenting fully staged profesmele is a story of inno- The St. Petersburg Opera Compa- sional opera productions of cent love, unbridled lust, ny is making its 2022 mainstage the highest quality, and to jealous rage, ambition and debut with three performances of make opera accessible to revenge, featuring some George Frideric Handel’s Semele present and future audion Friday, Sunday and Tuesday, of Handel’s most inspiring February 4, 6 and 8 at The Palladi- ences through community orchestral music and virtuoutreach, educational inium Theater. osic vocal writing. tiatives and collaboration Engaged to a prince, the dangerously am- with other arts organizations. bitious Semele is nevertheless in love with Individual tickets for the St. Petersburg Jupiter, the king of the gods. Jupiter spirits Opera Company’s Semele are $15-95 and Semele away to an elaborate palace guard- are available for purchase online at www. ed by dragons, but his wife, Juno, schemes stpeteopera.org or by phone at 727-823to end the affair. With the help of Somnus, 2040. Special savings are available for the god of sleep, Juno manipulates Semele groups of ten or more. You can purchase into demanding immortality and seeing Ju- your group ticket package by calling 727piter in his real form, a wish that, when re- 823-2040. Student Rush Tickets for $10 luctantly granted, causes her death. are available to all St. Petersburg Opera The cast features Holly Flack (coloratura mainstage operas at The Palladium. Ticksoprano), as Semele, Kyle Tomlin (tenor) as ets will be available on a first-come, firstJupiter, Sarah Couden (contralto) as Ino/ served basis 30 minutes before each perforJuno, Stephanie Jabre (soprano) as Iris, mance at The Palladium’s box office. A valid Ryan Belongie (countertenor) as Athamas, student ID is required. Limit one ticket per and Christopher Nazarian (bass) as Cad- person. Subject to availability. Cash transmus/Somnus. actions only.

Volume 17, Issue 1

WINTHROP STUDENT PLACES IN NATIONAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

By Kate Quesada

In the year and a half She traveled the since Kylani Gathers East Coast to particistarted swinging golf pate in regional tourclubs on her 7th birthnaments, advanced to day, the Winthrop Charthe sub-regional for ter Academy student the Drive, Chip, Putt has made great strides.

Competition and reEarlier this month, she ceived an invitation to was the runner-up in and competed in the the Junior Honda ClasU.S. Kids Golf World sic in West Palm Beach Championship in Pineand has big goals for the hurst, North Carolina, future. placing 43rd in the Kylani’s father, Corey world ranking for the Gathers, bought her a girls 8-year-old diviset of real golf clubs for sion. her 7th birthday, and Most recently, she has been working Kylani placed runhard to succeed ever ner-up at the Junior since.

Honda Classic in “In 2020, she par- Eight-year-old Kylani Gathers is making a West Palm Beach. name for herself in the golf world. ticipated at a local juThe golf tournament nior golf clinic just to see what she could do was held at the PGA National Resort and for fun,” said Corey. “By the end of the ses- Golf Course. sion, the golf instructor wanted her to come “The Honda Classic is essentially a profesback for more instruction and encouraged sional event; however, the IMG Academy us to participate in competitive junior golf.” sponsors the junior portion of the event,” In January of 2021, Kylani entered her explained Corey. “She set her personal refirst U.S. Kids Golf tournament. cord by shooting even par (36) in tourna“After placing last place in that tourney, ment play. This was a big step for her as she Kylani worked very hard to not be there set a goal at the beginning of the year to again,” said Corey. “She did finish the winter shoot under par.” season but did not place well at all.”

Corey feels her passion for golf will help During 2021, Kylani participated in three Kylani go far.

U.S. Kids Golf seasons. According to Corey, “Kylani truly has a gift in the game of she finished as top five in the spring, season golf,” he said. “In your average person, the champion in the summer and season cham- progress she has made in this game comes pion in the fall. over years. She has cut that time tremen“She started the year shooting a 58 (+22) dously and works hard toward becoming for nine holes and it lit a fire in her,” he said. her best.”

“By the summer, she shot her lowest score To learn more, visit www.kylanigathers. of 38 (+2) and her stroke average was 42 com or follow her on Instagram at @kylan(+6).” igathersgolf.

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January 2022

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 17, Issue 1

NERDSTOGO OFFERS IT SOLUTIONS HITECH AUTOMOTIVE WELCOMES NEW FOR INDIVIDUALS AND BUSINESSES OWNERS WITH SAME GREAT SERVICE

By Libby Hopkins

By Michelle Caceres

While the steworks seamlessly, reotypical definimaking data flow tion of a ‘nerd’ has fast and accurateits own set of conly while protecting notations—Meryour business from riam Webster still IT outages and defines the term as cyber risks,” said someone who “beVarnadore. haves awkwardly NerdsToGo ofaround other peofers this bundled ple and usually has service for $39.99 unstylish clothes.” per month per The definition desktop. that resonates Franchise Owner Michael Varnadore of NerdsToGo. Livingstone the most with the employees at NerdsToGo Academy CEO Chris Pello has been using is “a person interested in computers.” the services of NerdsToGo for two years The Nerds (yes, it’s their official title) at and said it offers the most efficient and NerdsToGo aren’t just interested in them, affordable IT service for small businesses. they are certified.

“We’re a nonprofit and can’t afford to Franchise Owner Michael Varnadore is hire a full-time technology expert,” he said. himself a proud Nerd. Varnadore, a U.S. Air “Varnadore takes care of all the IT needs Force veteran, has more than 35 years of at our four school locations, and we’ve nevexperience supporting and managing infor- er been disappointed with his Nerds.” mation technology, ranging from desktop In addition to its business solutions, support, LAN/WAN engineering, systems NerdsToGo offers in-home residential administration, web development and sys- hardware and software solutions when tems security engineering, IT-managed problems arise, from data backup and reservices and program management. He also covery and wireless networking solutions holds an expert-level ITIL V3 certification to new computer setup as well as phone and helps inspire the next generation of and tablet repairs.

Nerds by teaching computer classes at Hill“Sit tight and we’ll send our expert sborough Community College.

Nerds to help you with whatever technoloVarnadore and his team of Nerds provide gy problem you’re encountering,” said Varcomputer and technology-based services to nadore. both the small and medium-sized business NerdsToGo, which also offers a NerdLab market as well as the residential market. providing in-store diagnostics and repair, is His company now offers NerdAssure, located across from Walmart in the Pebble a customized IT management service for Creek Collection shopping center at 19651 small businesses that’s backed by IT pro- Bruce B. Downs Blvd. in Tampa. fessionals.

Its business hours are Monday to Friday, “Whether your business has one com- 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. puter or hundreds, NerdAssure is like havFor more information, visit www.nerdsing your own personal IT department that togo.com/tampa-fl or call 321-1700.

Gary Olson has long dream of worked at HiTech following in my faAutomotive for 12 ther’s footsteps of years as the service becoming self-emmanager with the ployed in the auto previous owners, repair industry,” Joe and Melissa Gary said. “I want Canfield, and he is to create stronger now one of the new ties to the comowners of the popumunity and build lar business. a financial future Gary has been for my family.” married to his wife, Gauvreaus also HiTech Automotive has new owners. They are Gary Denise Olson, for has had a dream Olson and his father-in-law, Tom Gauvreau. They more than 20 years. of owning his own recently purchased the business from longtime “We moved back to business. owners Joe and Melissa Canfield. the Brandon area in “I have always 2009,” Gary said. “Our wanted to own my daughters, Olivia and own business, and the Trinity, attended Bevis opportunity to own an and FishHawk Creek Elestablished business ementary Schools and with a reputation as then Randall and Newgood as HiTech’s was some.” just too good to pass Gary is part of the up,” Gauvreaus said.

Nam Knights of America “We plan on continuwhich is a motorcycle club made up of for- ing the great reputation HiTech has for mer and current military and law enforce- customer service and trying to expand our ment members. customer base.”

“They raise money for local charities Gauvreaus is also a 20-year Navy veterthroughout the year,” Gary said. “I’m a an who has lived in FishHawk since 2005.

Navy veteran and a member of AMVETS He still works for the U.S. Army as well.

Post 26. Denise is a member of the Ladies “We are a veteran-owned business offerAuxiliary at AMVETS Post 26 as well, vol- ing a 10 percent discount to all veterans,” unteering her time to the community. De- Gauvreaus said. “We are still a family, localnise left her corporate job with Graybar ly owned business and we plan on continuElectric to join her father and I in running ing to strengthen our bonds with the local our family business.” community.”

Gary and his father-in-law, Tom If you would like to learn more about HiGauvreaus, are the new owners of HiTech Tech Automotive, you can visit its website Automotive. They are excited for their new at www.hitechautomotiveofbrandon.com business venture. “Buying the shop was a or call 684-1556. HiTech Automotive is loperfect opportunity for me to fulfill a life- cated at 119 S. Montclair Ave. in Brandon.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

TROOP 61 HOSTS ANNUAL TASTE OF SCOUTING BBQ FUNDRAISER Staff Report ing equipment, repair our flotilla of canoes, offset the cost of summer camp, and provide Scout families assistance through scholarships in case of financial hardships,” said Zelatis. “We want every young perMembers of Boy Scout Troop 61 are getting ready for their annual Taste of son to experience Scouting BBQ fundraiser on Saturday, February 5 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Scouting. Also, a If you like barbecue and helping portion of the proceeds the community, mark your calenwill go to the Presbyteridars for Saturday, February 5. Boy an Church of BloomingScout Troop 61 will host the fourth dale to help pay for annual ‘Taste of Scouting’ barbecue building and grounds event from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at the maintenance and inciPresbyterian Church of Bloomingdentals.” dale, located at 710 E. BloomingdaScouts are involved le Ave. in Brandon. in every aspect of event This community-wide event from preparing the will include barbecue meals prepared by meats to serving the guests.

Scouts for customers to pick up and en“The night before, the Scouts will first joy. The Scouts will also be explaining and make the rubs and sauces,” said Zelatis, demonstrating various skills such as knot “then they will trim and prepare the meats tying, camping demonstration, pioneering for smoking. Being that this is an overand more. night cook, the adult leaders will man the “The event was first held in February smokers while the Scouts camp out and 2019, and we have been holding it every sleep in preparation of the next day’s activyear since,” said Troop Committee Member ities. On the day of the event, they will be & Pitmaster John Zelatis. serving food and setting up activities such This year, the meal will include a choice as knot tying, orienteering, fire building, of low and slow-smoked brisket, pulled camping, backpacking, first aid and more pork or turkey with potato salad, baked so all our guests can see what Scouting is beans, a roll and drink. The meals are $18 all about.” if you preorder online or $20 at the door.

To preorder a Taste of Scouting BBQ “The funds raised will be utilized to help meal, visit https://2022tasteofscoutlower Scout dues and registration fees, ing.eventbrite.com/ or www.bstroop61. purchase new or upgrade existing camp- com and click on ‘Taste of Scouting.’

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 17, Issue 1

January 2022

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 17

AWARD-WINNING CHRISTIAN MUSIC AT THE 2022 STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL The 87th annual Florida Strawtian parents in berry Festival will take place for the church and 11 days from Thursday, March 3 in a loving comthrough Sunday, March 13. The munity but was festival, which is ranked as the seduced away 28th top fair in North America, is by the illusion not only known for its strawberry of rock stardom, shortcakes, carnival games, youth and the drugs livestock shows, food vendors and thrilling midway rides, but also it’s legendary for hosting big name musical artists and entertainment.

The event typically sees more than 500,000 visitors each year.

Two major Christian artists will GRAMMY Award-winning and chart-topping Christian music artists Laube performing at this year’s festival: ren Daigle and Zach Williams are scheduled to perform at the 2022 Florida Strawberry Festival.

Lauren Daigle and Zach Williams.

Daigle is a two-time GRAMMY, sev- continents.

This is Daigle’s first time perform- and alcohol that en-time Billboard Music Award and ing at the Strawberry Festival, and so often accomfour-time American Music Award she’s excited about the opportuni- pany that lifewinner. Her platinum debut album, How Can It Be, produced three num- ty and encourages concertgoers to style. ber one songs, but it was her release “bring their dancing shoes.”

Now, the Nash“Performing is one of my favorite of Look Up Child, her second consecville-based artutive platinum album, that revealed things about music,” said Daigle. ist is a renewed Daigle as one of the most impressive “Looking out every night and seeing man. He’s a husvocalists of our time. Look Up Child, people sing along brings a feeling of band, a father which earned Daigle her second joy that doesn’t just stop at me. It and has also become one of ChrisGRAMMY Award, featuring her hit connects with everyone around the tian country music’s leading artists song “You Say,” is the longest-run- room, and I think that is something and songwriters by carving a niche ning number one song to appear on I will never take for granted. It is such a blessing to be able to play any weekly Billboard chart.

Daigle’s ability to connect with her music with people I love to dearly, it audiences has been well document- feels like a family reunion every time ed. It’s helped make her the fast- we take the stage.”

Christian artist Zach Williams is est-selling new artist of her genre an award-winning and chart-topping over the past decade and given her singer and songwriter who is also soulful, authentic, vocal power a worldwide audience. She’s amassed performing at the Strawberry Festia billion worldwide streams and val. His background inspires many of sold-out headline shows on three his songs—he was raised by Chris-

By Kelly Wise Valdes with his blend of Southern rock, country and faith-filled songwriting, which quickly awarded him his first GRAMMY Award® with his debut album, 2017’s Chain Breaker.

With two additional GRAMMY nods among numerous other accolades, he recently released his new album, aptly titled Rescue Story.

Daigle will be performing on Saturday, March 5 at 7:30 p.m.

Williams is scheduled to perform on Tuesday March 8 at 7:30 p.m.

To purchase tickets and see the full list of entertainers, visit www.flstrawberryfestival.com.

Tickets can also be purchased at the Amscot Main Ticket Office, located at 2209 W. Oak Ave. in Plant City, or by calling 754-1996.

Page 18

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

PUBLIC LIBRARIES CELEBRATES 2 MILLION DIGITAL CHECKOUTS IN 2021 Staff Report

Residents checked out e-books from local libraries more than ever before in 2021.

Residents have been reading digitally more than ever in the last year. Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative recently announced that it reached 2 million digital checkouts for the second year in a row. From January 1 to November 23, 2021, library customers borrowed two million e-books, audiobooks and digital magazines.

Tampa-Hillsborough Public Libraries reached the milestone more quickly than it did in 2020, having already reached one million checkouts by June 15. Readers are turning to the library’s digital collection for their information and entertainment in part because of the ease and convenience of the libraries’ online platforms. Customers can access digital titles from the comfort of their homes through the Libby app and OverDrive.

The public library system began offering digital magazines for the first time in 2021.

While e-books and e-magazines are popular among library customers, e-books take the award for most downloaded item with over 28,000 e-books rented per week. For a complete list of library locations, holiday hours and information on how to apply for a library card, visit hcplc.org.

‘Top 5 Adult eBook Titles’ from January 1-November 23.

1. The Four Winds 2. The Midnight Library 3. A Time for Mercy 4. The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue 5. The Last Thing He Told Me ‘Top 5 Adult eAudio Titles’ from Jan. 1, 2021-Nov. 23, 2021 1. A Promised Land 2. Greenlights 3. The Four Winds 4. The Midnight Library 5. The Duke and I: Bridgerton Series Book ‘Top 5 OverDrive Magazines’ in 2021 1. Us Weekly 2. HGTV Magazine 3. The Economist 4. Woman’s World 5. The New Yorker ‘Top 5 Young Adult Fiction Titles’ in 2021 1. Shadow and Bone 2. Midnight Sun 3. Six of Crows 4. A Court of Thorns and Roses 5. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes

Volume 17, Issue 1

VALRICO EAGLE SCOUT CREATES BLESSING BOX

Staff Report

Mary Beth.

“The feeding ministry provides free hot meals twice a month to anyone.

Noting the great need in the community, Gavin decided on this project to help supplement food in between those Gavin De Croix, a Life Scout from BSA Troop 109 in Valrico, recently assembled hot meals.” a Blessing Box, which is now operating at the TLC Feeding Ministry at Holy InnoAnyone cents’ Episcopal Church in Valrico. who wishes Gavin De Croix, a Life Scout from BSA to donate food items to the box can Troop 109 in Valrico, is one step closer bring them to Holy Innocents’ Church, to earning his Eagle Scout rank. Gavin located at 604 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico. completed his Eagle Scout project last To earn the Eagle Scout rank, the month with the help of Scouts from Boy highest advancement rank in Scouting, Scout Troop 109 and Girl Scout Troop a Scout must fulfill requirements in the 901. areas of leadership, service and outFor his project, Gavin chose a Blessing door skills. He or she advances through Box, which is a free little pantry that the ranks—Scout, Tenderfoot, Second those in need of food and can stop by at Class, First Class, Star, Life and Eagle— any time and help themselves without along the journey, earning a minimum of feeling ashamed or judged.

21 merit badges, serving six months in “Also, people who wish to donate a troop position of responsibility, taking nonperishable items can drop off goods part in a Scoutmaster conference and in the box at any time to help support proposing, planning and carrying out their community,” said Gavin’s mother, leadership to others in a service project Mary Beth De Croix. helpful to the community.

The box is placed at the TLC Feeding Mary Beth invites anyone who would Ministry at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal like more information on scouting to Church in Valrico. visit the troop’s meetings on Monday “Gavin chose the TLC Feeding Minis- evenings at 7 p.m. at Holy Innocents’ try at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church Episcopal Church. For more informaas the beneficiary of this project to sup- tion, email bsatroop109valrico@gmail. port all they do for the community,” said com.

Karla Marie Carolan, J.D.

As always, we are here for any legal support you may need and wish everyone good health.

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

January 2022

Page 19

Drag Queen Bingo Valentine’s David Weekley Collects Thou- Veterans Art Program The Veterans Art Program is open to vetCelebration sands Of Meals During erans of foreign wars. There is no fee, no Drag Queen Freya Annual Food Drive is returning to Center Place, so save a spot in your heart for Drag Queen Bingo this Valentine’s week. Valentine’s-themed Drag Queen Bingo will take place on Thursday, February 10, from 6-9 p.m. Tickets are $40 ($5 service fee for card payments) and includes 10 games of bingo, a performance from Freya, food and wine. There will also be a silent auction and a 50/50 raffle. Center Place is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon, call Center Place to reserve your seat on 685-8888.

You must be 18 or older to attend.

Clay Shoot, Art Program, Bingo, Talent Showcase ...

Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com

Art Program For Families With Down Syndrome Children And Teens

Dover Bullets Clay Shoot Fundraiser

A local baseball team, the Dover Bullets, is raising money to go to Cooperstown, New York to compete in June. A clay shoot fundraiser is being held on Saturday, February 12, from 9:30 a.m. at FishHawk Sporting Clays, located at 13505 Hobson Simmons Rd. in Lithia. Tickets for the event are $125 per person, and that includes ammunition and safety gear, as well as lunch and beverages. A team costs $400, and one gun and a golf cart will be included per foursome. Along with the clay shoot, there will be raffles, prizes and an auction to enjoy. For more information, contact Stephanie at 727-919-0302 or bulletsbaseball12u@gmail.com.

Center Place’s community partner, the Down Syndrome Association of Tampa Bay (DSATB) will be offering its free 3-2-1 Art program for families with children and teens who have Down syndrome. The program will take place at Center Place twice a month on the first Monday of each month from 6-7 p.m. and on the third Sunday of each month from 3-4 p.m. The students will use art as a way of expression and communication.

The class will also help its students develop social skills and learn how to interact with other students and teachers in a classroom setting.

If you would like to preregister your child for this program, please contact Center Place at 685-8888. Children and families must be prescreened for this program before they may register.

Nearly 311,000 people na- artistic skill needed, no surveys or record tionwide received a hearty keeping and no reason not to join. It takes Thanksgiving meal thanks place every Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. unto the partnership of David til 12 Noon at Center Place, which is located Weekley Homes and 17 chari- at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon. To ties across the U.S. Throughout register for the class, call 685-8888.

November, the company hosted its seventh annual, compa- Plant City Community Choral ny-wide Thanksgiving Drive, Rehearsals collecting 93,000 pounds of Plant City Community Chorale began food and more than $110,000 for non- rehearsals for its spring session on Janprofit organizations around the coun- uary 10, from 7-9:30 p.m., at First United try with help Methodist Church, from homelocated at 303 N. owners, real Evers St. in Plant estate agents, City. The Chorale vendors, trade rehearses every partners and Monday night and team members. is always looking The Tampa for new singers to team partnered join the fun. For with Feeding more information, Tampa Bay, and visit its website at the donations www.pccchorale. provided over Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Robert Atkinson, from org, its Facebook Brandon, monitors a culinary line schedule aboard 90,000 meals, page @plantcitythe aircraft carrier USS Nimitz. including 5,100 communitychorale, pounds of frozen turkeys and hams, for or contact the secretary at pccchoralesecthose in need. retary@gmail.com.

Monthly Artist Night To Show Case Local Talent

Center Place is calling all artists, musicians, poets and actors to come and showcase their talent to the community in a monthly artist night on the first Friday of each month from 7-10 p.m. There is no admission for this event, but your work will need to be seen by Center Place’s executive director before attendance is approved. Center Place is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon.

Call 685-8888 for more information. You must be 21 or older to attend.

Bingo Returns To St. Stephen Catholic Church

St. Stephen Catholic Church, located at 10118 St. Stephen Cir. in Riverview is pleased to announce the return of bingo to its Family Life Center. The event is held on the fourth Tuesday of every month. The next date is January 25, and it will begin at 6:30 p.m. The doors open at 5:30 p.m., and a concession stand will be available for refreshments. There will also be a 50/50 raffle, and proceeds from the evening will support community families in need and church groups like St. Vincent de Paul.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

MOSAIC AND THE TAMPA BAY BUCS JOIN FORCES TO HELP THOSE IN NEED

STORYCORPS TO BRING ITS GROUNDBREAKING ORAL HISTORY PROJECT TO TAMPA StoryCorps, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to recording, preserving and sharing the stories of people from all backgrounds and beliefs, will be in Tampa from Wednesday, January 5 to Monday, February 14 to record interviews, in-person and virtually, as part of its Mobile Tour.

In a StoryCorps interview, two people record a meaningful conversation about who they are, what they have learned in life and how they want to be remembered. A trained StoryCorps facilitator guides them through the interview process. After each 40-minute recording session, participants receive a digital copy of their interview.

With participant permission, a second copy is archived at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress for future generations to hear.

StoryCorps was founded in 2003. “StoryCorps tells an authentic American story— that we are a people defined by small acts of courage, kindness and heroism. Each interview reminds people that their lives matter and will not be forgotten,” said Founder Dave Isay. “During this pandemic, the value of preserving these stories, and of strengthening connections between people who may feel physically isolated, is more important than ever,” added Isay.

Volume 17, Issue 1

By Libby Hopkins

StoryCorps will partner with NPR Tampa affiliate WUSF Public Media.

WUSF will air a selection of the local interviews and create special programs around the project. StoryCorps may also StoryCorps, founded in 2003, has given share excerpts over half a million of these stoAmericans of all back- ries with the grounds and beliefs, in world through towns and cities in all the project’s 50 states, the chance popular weekto record interviews ly NPR broadabout their lives. casts, animated shorts, digital platforms and bestselling books.

“Our region is full of incredible stories, and each story begins with one person,” said WUSF General Manager JoAnn Urofsky.

“With StoryCorps, we continue our mission to be where our audience is and engage people in the community wherever we can. As a public media organization, we are eager to be part of our listeners’ lives. With this project, we can help provide that community gathering place and bring people’s stories to each other,” added Urofsky.

StoryCorps is made possible in part by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, a private corporation funded by the American people.

If you would like to be a part of this fabulous program, reservations to record can be made by calling StoryCorps’ 24-hour, tollfree reservation line at 1-800-850-4406 or by visiting www.storycorps.org.

Mosaic and the Feeding TamTampa Bay Bucs pa Bay. Not are dedicated to only are they helping the coma longtime munities where partner of they live, work and Mosaic, but play. The two orgathey have nizations recently the experjoined forces to tise to build, help those in need manage and in their communisustain the ty by forming the pantries. The Tackling Hunger first panFueled by Mosaic try opened program and holdat Broward ing a food drive in ElementaMosaic and the Tampa Bay Bucs recently held a food Riverview. ry School drive in Riverview.

“Mosaic is in Seminole dedicated to supporting the communities Heights in October and serves approximatewhere we live and work, and this partner- ly 300 families in the area.” ship is just one way we hope to make lastIn addition to the pantries, Mosaic and ing positive impacts in the community to the Bucs will also support Feeding Tampa fight food insecurity,” said Karla Guzman Bay through food drives both with their emof Mosaic. “According to Feeding Tampa ployees and their communities.

Bay, one in four children are food insecure Mosaic and The Bucs love giving back to in Tampa Bay. This partnership represents their communities. our continued commitment to help those in “All of our employees who have helped need by removing barriers for children to so far in this partnership have expressed thrive and succeed. By improving access joy and pride in being able to give back to to healthy and nutritious food, we are help- our communities,” Guzman said. “Hunger ing to fuel better learning, development and is a year-round issue, but the holidays are overall wellness components critical for fu- especially tough. Mosaic has an engaged ture success.” workforce who not only supports this partThe Tackling Hunger Fueled by Mosaic nership but supports many organizations program is a long-term partnership be- throughout the Tampa Bay area. This is our tween The Mosaic Company and the Tampa home. This is our community. This is where Bay Buccaneers to open food pantries an- we raise our children. We all live here, so to nually in communities in need. be able to be in a position where we can “To help fund this partnership, both Mosa- each volunteer or donate, if we can help, we ic and the Bucs will donate $10 each, at to- feel like we should.” tal of $20, for every tackle made during the If you would like to learn more about the regular season,” said Guzman. “Our partner Tackling Hunger program, you can visit Moto help build and manage these pantries is saic’s website at www.mosaicco.com.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

January 2022

CHAKRA SERIES YOGA CLASS AT GEMMA FLORAL BOUTIQUE Staff Report A new local corresponding store has become stone is red jasa destination for per. yoga lovers and “My vision for women of all this space was kinds since opento modernize the ing late last year. idea of a tradiA seven-month tional florist, and series of chakraI believe by simthemed yoga ply adding booze classes began this to the mix, I’ve month at Gemma done just that,” Floral Boutique said Weeks. on S. Kings Ave. A seven-month series of chakra-themed yoga classes be- “Most people gan this month at Gemma Floral Boutique on S. Kings think it’s an interin Brandon.

Ave. in Brandon.

Owned by esting combinaShelbi Weeks, Gemtion, but when you ma Floral Boutique really think about it, is part floral bouall of the items we tique, part crystal offer have one thing shop, part bar and in common: good more. vibes.”

“We are a floral boutique studio offering Weeks described the boutique as a safe premade and custom arrangements, house haven for women. plants, candles, soaps and crystals,” said “The boutique is rentable for intimate Weeks. “In addition to the retail items avail- events, holding up to 50 people. We also able, we offer a wide variety of wine and host our own events, such as floral arrangesake and stay open until 10 p.m. on Thurs- ment classes, charcuterie board classes, day and midnight on Friday and Saturday networking events and yoga,” said Weeks. for an intimate drinking experience.”

“Yoga fits right along with the items we Each month, the shop will be hosting offer—natural and holistic. It’s on brand to a one-hour yoga class lead by Sanctuary flow forward; oftentimes we get into a difWithin Yoga & Wellness sequenced to stim- ficult position and have to breathe through ulate the chakra center focused on that the pain and monotony.” month.

Gemma Floral Boutique is located at Chakras are energy centers located 210 S. Kings Ave., Ste. N in Brandon. Visit throughout the body that effect our emo- gemmabrandon.com, @gemmabrandon on tional and physical well-being. The class is Instagram or call 654-7789 to sign up. Fol$20 and includes a Reiki-infused crystal low Sanctuary Within on Instagram at @ corresponding with the chakra students sanctuarywithinyoga or at facebook.com/ take home with them. The chakra for Jan- Sanctuary.Within.Yoga. uary is Muladhara, or root chakra, and the

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Page 21

HOPE FOR HER STARTS HEALTHY HABITS CLASS

By Kate Quesada

Hope for Her has an exciting announce- will be available.” ment for local women. The group, with the On Monday, February 14, the class will mission of helping women and their fam- be Declutter Your Heart. “February brings ilies in crisis find stability and live their a wonderful opportunity to ‘Let Go and Let best lives, is hosting Healthy Habits classes God,’” said Hickman. “As women, we jugstarting next month. gle responsibilities, “We are so excitstress and constant ed to kick off our demands on our Healthy Habits Classtime and emotiones at Hope for Her,” al energy. Ilene is said Cheryl Hickman, a counselor at Bay Hope for Her execuLife Church Countive director. “We acseling Center. Come complish our mission learn tools to navithrough support and gate life’s challengeducation in five ares and free up space eas, emotional health, in your heart.” financial health, Hope for Her is hosting Healthy Habits Classes Functional Fitspiritual health, ness will take place starting next month. physical health and on Monday, Februnutritional health.” ary 21. “You’ve heard if we don’t move our The classes will begin Monday, February bodies, we will lose them,” said Hickman.

7 and will take place every Monday night “Functional Fitness teaches easy stretchuntil November from 6:15-7:30 p.m. ing and relaxation techniques that we all The classes are free and will be held at can use daily. Kristen is a certified Yoga Hope for Her, which is located at 140 Yar- teacher that will give practical fitness brough Rd. in Brandon. tips we can use every day to improve our “We are creating a community of wom- health. Wear comfortable clothes for light en who want to live their best lives,” said stretching.”

Hickman. “We do this by sharing our mutuThe final February class will be Spiritual experience and growing together. All the al Health. “As a faith-based ministry, we facilitators will share from their personal believe in the power of strong spiritual experiences.” life,” said Hickman. “Believing we are loved The first class on February 7 will be a deeply by our God is foundational. As womCrack Pot class. “Busy but want to provide en, we sometimes doubt our value. Debbie a good nutritional meal for your family?” is a leader with Bible Study Fellowship. said Hickman. “Johnna will share tips and She will share truths of God’s word about tricks she has learned along with simple His never-ending love for us.” recipes for wholesome crockpot meals.

To sign up, call 309-3357 or register Each participant will receive a new crock- through the group’s Facebook page @ pot and recipes. Come, hungry-samples hopeforherfl.

Page 22

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 17, Issue 1

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT CENTER PLACE: TRAVELING ARTS EXHIBIT

By Libby Hopkins

Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association has many new events and programs coming in 2022. “We are very excited to join partners with The Exhibiting Society of Artists (TESA), which is an artist group from Pinellas County,” said Center Place’s executive director, Libby Hopkins. “TESA is a fine arts cooperative that brings original local artist to art buyers in our community. Many of their pieces available at Center Place depict beloved scenes emblematic of our community.”

TESA currently has a hallway show at Center Place, but next month it will have a full show in Center Place’s Grand Room. “We are just so excited that this large art group from Pinellas County reached out to Center Place because they want to get their foot in the door of the Brandon art scene,” Hopkins said. “I feel that Center Place is moving in the right direction to be the hub of all things art in our community.”

During Center Place’s recent Christmas Tree Lighting, MOSI was on hand to offer

Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association has many new events and programs coming in 2022. The center has recently joined partners with The Exhibiting Society of Artists (TESA), which is an artist group from Pinellas County, to do a hallway art show. Next month, TESA will have a full art exhibit in Center Place’s Grand Room.

some pop-up STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) programming at the event. Since the programming was a hit with Center Place’s guests, the center is working on a partnership with MOSI to offer more STEAM programming at the center.

“Since the ‘A’ in STEAM stands for ‘art,’ it only seems natural for Center Place to partner with MOSI and offer more STEAM pop-up programming,” Hopkins said. “We are hoping to offer STEAM summer camps with MOSI

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this coming summer as well.”

The New Year brings new classes and events at Center Place as well. “We are excited to partner with Dark Light Portrait Studios to start offering photography classes at Center Place,” Hopkins said. “They joined us at our Christmas Tree Lighting and asked if they could offer photography classes. We’ve been

wanting to have photography at Center Place for a while now, so we can’t wait for their program to start in February.”

Center Place artist and teacher Alejandro Algarin is going to be offering his Street Art class and has added a Cartoon Drawing class. “This class will help students become cartoonist and help them to express everyday characters, scenes and stories,” Hopkins said.

“Alejandro will also discuss cartooning history and how to express emotions and acting through cartooning.”

If you would like to learn more about all the classes and events happening at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association, you can visit its website at www.centerplacebrandon.com or call the center at 685-8888. Center Place is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon, next to the Brandon Regional Library.

January 2022

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 23

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Page 24

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 17, Issue 1

Brandon/Winthrop

High 5 Offers New Combined Pickleball And Tennis Membership Joining the High 5 Paddle and Racquet Membership gives players full access to both pickleball and tennis activities. Racquet sports are first and foremost a social sport, and membership gives unlimited access to many organized play sessions and other fun events. The play does not stop on the courts and includes invitations to social outings and community driven activities that are led by volunteers and other players in the community.

High 5, Inc. is located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon. For additional information, visit its website at www.high5inc.org or call 6890908.

Creative Junk Therapy Offers Art Classes BOGOHO Creative Junk Therapy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit creative reuse center in Brandon. It was created as a space for all people to enjoy their community through creativity and its mission is to promote creativity, environmental awareness and community through reuse. It is offering buy-one, getone-half-off art classes between February and April for people new to Creative Art Therapy. It offers a wide selection of classes on varying mediums, including acrylic paint-

ing, fiber art, papier-mâché, resin art, creative crochet and cross stitch.

Creative Junk Therapy is located at 772 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. Additional information can be found on its website at www.creativejunktherapy.org or by calling 324-9777.

Greenbrook Medical Celebrates Ribbon-Cutting Greenbrook Medical has been delivering high-quality, personalized primary care to seniors with Medicare Advantage in Tampa Bay for 30 years and recently celebrated the ribbon-cutting of a new clinic in Seffner.

It offers the highest-touch service you’ll find from your doctor—you’ll always see your board-certified doctor. It offers same-day appointments, same-day referrals to specialists, low wait

rooms are themed to the last detail to enhance your experience. It creates a unique movie-like setting with puzzles and electronics.

Legends Escape Rooms is located at 952 W. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon and won Best In-Person Escape Room for Dungeon VII. It has a variety of escape rooms with different levels of difficulty and genres. Legends was founded as an antidote to the mundane, and its owners times, convenient on-site services and treatwanted players to step out of the rut of being ments like lab services, EKG, PFT, skin cancer entertained and join the thrill and adventure biopsies and treatments, joint injections, vacof being part of the mystery. cines and more.

Additional information about Game Over can Greenbrook Medical of Seffner is located at Lakewood Market at 11200 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Ste. 107 in Seffner. For more information, visit www.greenbrookmedical.com, follow at www.facebook.com/ Greenbrook-Medical-225419642808550/ or call 443-3399.

Local Escape Rooms Win ‘World’s Best’ Awards Two local escape rooms won ‘best escape rooms in the world’ titles. Game Over Escape Rooms is located at 10266 Causeway Blvd. in Tampa and was awarded Best Horror Theme. Its escape

be found on its website at info@gameovertampa.com or by calling 372-0040. Information for Legends can be found at www. legendsescaperooms. com or by calling 6439411.

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Brandon/Winthrop

BUSINESS COLUMN CONTINUED... vides superior, all-encompassing customer service to both the residential and commercial painting industry. It prides itself on being family-owned with family values and a high-quality work ethic being the motivation behind all that it does. For your free paint estimate from T&J Painting or for more information, you can reach them by phone at 723-9124 or visit its website at www.tandjpaintingfl.com.

Double Eagle Auto Center And Niche Auto Finders Opening Soon Double Eagle Auto Center (formerly Car Wash on the Greens) and Niche Auto Finders, Inc. is opening soon in Valrico. The oil change services offered within the old fast lube shop will now focus solely on the highest quality oil brands and premium synthetA.C.T. Massage Of Lithia Opens ic; full-service specialty mechanical is also FishHawk resident Jean Niccum, who is part of the expansion. a registered nurse and has over 30 years of The new owners have brought together a carefully selected, pre-owned inventory of distinctive vehicles as well. “Our goal is to offer an impressive selection of top-quality pre-owned cars and trucks at the most competitive prices in the (Photo courtesy of Gerardo Luna Photography): A ribbon-cutting to celebrate T&J Painting. nation,” said Aaron Bleich, experience in the health care field, recently owner of Niche Auto Finders. Sam Shore, started A.C.T. Massage of Lithia, located at also an owner, is a truck connoisseur, but he 411 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Ste. 411 in Branstill loves to jump in a hot rod when he’s not don. It provides relaxing and therapeutic hauling a trailer or building materials. Niche massages to help clients achieve health Auto Finders strives to offer cars for and well-being usevery budget, from a $2,500 starter ing techniques that car to a $100,000 Lamborghini Galpromote relaxation lardo LP570 Performante. and healing holistiThe new auto services and sales cally. “Studies have business, with a remodeled lounge shown massage area, is located at 3618 Lithia therapy to produce Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico, just a halfpositive results mile south of Bloomingdale and next when used as an to Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. Conadjunct to help intact info to ‘talk clean cars’ like dividuals manage BMWs, Jaguars, Lexus, Mercedes, common ailments Hondas, Fords and more is 416-7224. such as high blood Visit www.nicheautofinders.com for more pressure, peripheral neuropathy, depression, information or stop in and look around. anxiety and post-cancer treatment, to name a few,” said Niccum. For additional informaT&J Painting Celebrates First Annition, visit its website at www.massagebook. versary com/biz/ACTMassageoflithia, call 356-9703 T&J Painting, owned by locals Tony and or email actmassageoflithia@gmail.com.

Jen Friedrichsen, has just celebrated its first Mobile massage options are also available anniversary with a get-together, including with prior approval. snacks and door prizes. T&J Painting pro-

Volume 17, Issue 1

COMMUNITY SUPPORTS NAVY SEAL BRIAN BOURGEOIS’ FAMILY FOLLOWING TRAGIC LOSS

By Lily Belcher

Following the Command] tragic death and yet he still of Navy SEAL made time for and former his wife and FishHawk fahis kids and ther of five Brimade time for an Bourgeois, his communiFishHawk famty,” said Mcilies and Navy Millin.

Football BrothMcMillin erhood are raisshared that ing money to when one of support BourBourgeois’ geois’ family. neighbors was Bourgeois was ill, he visited an active mem- Brian Bourgeois was dedicated to his family, community the family and and country while serving as a Navy SEAL. ber of the Fishhelped them Hawk community, involved with his kids’ with some home repairs, something Mcsports teams and supported his wife, Millin said was not surprising coming Megan, in her involvement with Seeds of from Bourgeois, who often helped his Hope. neighbors and the FishHawk community.

“He touched everyone that he could “This guy was just a different guy … touch and everyone that came to the me- there’s only a few SEAL teams in the morial service had a story about Brian,” world and he went to Virginia Beach not said Brian McMillin, who was a friend of knowing if they would name him a team Bourgeois. “He was so close to so many commander, and they did. Up there, he people.” commanded almost 250 people [in] the While his dedication to his family and last year that he took command.” community was seen through his involveNavy Football Brotherhood reached ment in FishHawk sports, Bourgeois’ out to McMillin to organize a donation dedication to his country was evident in for Bourgeois’ family following his death his work with the Navy in his 20 years during a training exercise. Bourgeois had of service. Bourgeois applied to the Na- recently attended its alumni game in the val Academy and played for its football fall and maintained a close relationship team for four years. He then commis- with his former teammates. sioned as an officer in the Navy before “Ultimately,” said McMillin, “all these applying to Navy SEAL school in Virgin- people, and all these donations, just want ia. Bourgeois was named Commanding to make it to where Megan … is just able Officer of SEAL Team Eight, responsible to continue what they knew as normal.” for leading around 250 SEALs. To donate to help Bourgeois’ family, “This guy had the busiest job out of visit Navy Football Brotherhood’s Face[the United States Special Operations book page @NavyFootballBrotherhood.

1/31/2022

1/31/2022

January 2022

Brandon/Winthrop

WINTHROP ARTS OFFERS A DYNAMIC SCHEDULE OF ART CLASSES a thoughtful and thought-provoking setting.

For younger artists, Winthrop Arts offers a wide range of mediums, including Art with Bryant on Mondays at 3:30 p.m., Mixed Media Make and Take on Mondays at 4:30 p.m., Printmaking on Wednesdays at 5 p.m. and Ceramics on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6 p.m. There is also a 3D Art class Let 2022 be the year of art discovery with classes at the Win- offered on Thursdays at 4:30 p.m.

Winthrop Arts was established throp Arts’ Art Factory in Riverview. There are a multitude of classes to choose for adults, teens and children 5 and up. as a 501(c)(3) in 2015, but artist Bryant Martinez had been Winthrop Arts, an arts nonprofleading art classes and it located in Riverview, is excited holding art festivals under to offer a dynamic schedule of the name for many years. art classes for 2022. Classes are Since 2016, art classes available for children 5 years and have been offered at the older, teens and adults. All classes Art Factory. are offered at Winthrop Arts’ arts Martinez said, “Stueducation studio, known as the dents are taught how to Art Factory, which is located at create and appreciate art 11267 Winthrop Main St. in Rivin an atypical way.” He explained, “We like erview (at the intersection of Bloomingdale to think of our style more as artists creatAve. and Providence Rd.). ing art with fellow artists. Students learn For adults 15 years and older, Winthrop to appreciate what they create when left to Arts offers a ceramics class on Mondays freely imagine and not worry about making from 6-7:30 p.m. Adults can create original mistakes or being judged.” ceramics pieces by hand or a potter’s wheel.

Preregistration is required for all classes In addition, throughout the year, a basket and a minimum of four classes is required weaving class is offered. Students learn to except for basket weaving. hand-weave beautiful baskets of all types Winthrop Arts will once again offer a and sizes. summer camp this June and July. RegistraFor teens, there are two classes being of- tion for summer camp will be available in fered this year on either Tuesday or Thurs- March. day from 6-7:30 p.m. Teens will work with For more information on classes and to Varonica Hattix, an abstract artist, to create register, please visit www.winthroparts.org mixed media and drawing/painting pieces in or call 758-5161.

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TAMPA THEATRE BRINGS BACK WINEFEST FUNDRAISER THIS MARCH including once-in-alifetime trips, exclusive experiences and a high-stakes wine pull. Tickets are $300 for individuals and $595 for a pair.

Then, on Saturday, March 26, Tampa Theatre will present a two-tiered wine tasting. Guests get to taste dozens of boutique wines and sample favorite fare from Tampa’s top Tampa Theatre’s popular movie-themed wine weekend, based on the 2017 hit The Greatest Showman, supports ‘A Million Dreams’ of programming and independent restaupreservation for the iconic historic landmark. rants. The event begins at 7 p.m. There Tampa Theatre’s signature fundraiser, WineFest, is staging a triumphant return will be an opportunity to bid on premium sito the center ring in March 2022 with The lent auction items representing Bay area retailers, restaurants, services and attractions.

Grapest Showman.

The Premium Tasting starts at 7 p.m. and But, before the big event, Tampa Theatre is offering a special sing-along screening of features exclusive wines for a limited audithe 2017 smash-hit The Greatest Showman ence. Tickets for this are $100, or $90 for at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, February 18. Fans of Tampa Theatre members.

You can also opt for the Grand Tasting, all ages can “follow the bouncing top hat” and add their voices to the flying circus of which begins at 8 p.m. Tickets for this are fantastic songs on-screen at what has be- $65, or $55 for Tampa Theatre members.

WineFest is the theater’s biggest annual come the most requested, most successful fundraiser. It was forced to skip the event in sing-along in Tampa Theatre’s history.

Tickets are $13 for general admission and 2021 due to the pandemic. Event Chair Rachel Radawec said, “It goes without saying $10 for Tampa Theatre members.

WineFest, which is for those 21 years and that the past two years have been rough.” older, will kick off on Friday, March 25 at 7 Radawec added, “But from now on, we are p.m. with an elegant wine pairing. Guests focused on our 100th birthday in 2026, and will enjoy a multicourse menu created and ‘A Million Dreams’ for our second century.”

You can get tickets at the historic Franklin catered by Mise en Place Chef Marty Blitz.

The menu will feature small plates paired Street Box Office and online at www.tamwith wines. There will also be a live auction patheatre.org/winefest.

NOW Accepting New Patients Call today to schedule an appointment.

813-530-0903 631 W. Lumsden Rd. | Brandon, FL 33511

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Volume 17, Issue 1

THE KNOW MAGAZINE FEATURES TOP WOMEN OF THE COMMUNITY

By Libby Hopkins

Bernadett Pello

Do you know that our community is home to many KNOW Women? Do you know what KNOW Women are or how they become in the KNOW? KNOW is an ecosystem for high-achieving women. It is a global media company and community dedicated to amplifying the voices of female leaders, executives and entrepreneurs. “I wanted to become a part of KNOW because I knew a few women that were a part of KNOW and they had a good experience,” said Tampa Bay Market Manager of KNOW and Riverview resident. “I saw the publication and I knew the book was a quality product. I joined KNOW just prior to COVID. Like every other organization, in-person events did not happen. I participated in all of the virtual options KNOW offered.

I was able to build relationships with women not just in my local community, not even just the Tampa Bay area, but in other states and in Canada. My experience, even with COVID, was amazing.

The previous market manager moved into a corporate writing/publishing role.

Sarah Benken, the founder/CEO, asked me if I was interested in interviewing,

Libby Hopkins

Liz Brewer

Above: Melissa Snively, Shannon Keil and Dr. Deborah Johansen.

Do you know that our community is home to many KNOW Women? KNOW is an ecosystem for high-achieving women.

It is a global media company and community dedicated to amplifying the voices of female leaders, executives and entrepreneurs.

and here I am. It is a great opportunity.”

Liz Brewer of the Angel Foundation in Brandon is a KNOW Woman. “I wanted to become part of

Robin Stone

Rhonda McGrew

the KNOW Women network because I want to surround myself with strong, professional women who continually inspire and challenge me to be the best woman I can be,” Brewer said. “I believe that when you have others to go to when struggling with life’s issues, you will be able to make wise decisions, especially in business. As a CEO, it can be lonely at the top. The ladies I network

with allow me to be transparent without feeling inadequate because they, too, often experiencing the same struggles.”

Robin Stone is the owner of Legends Escape Rooms and Game Over Escape Rooms in Tampa. She is also a KNOW Woman. “I joined KNOW because of the incredible opportunities to promote female entrepreneurs,” Stone said. “Finding successful women that are like-minded is always beneficial and rewarding.”

Rhonda McGrew is the co-founder and CEO of Elite Pediatric Healthcare. She too is a KNOW Woman. “I wanted to become a part of KNOW to connect with and collaborate with like-minded women who encourage, support and promote a high level of excellence in both business in community service,” McGrew said. “I, too, am a KNOW Woman. I joined because I wanted to connect with women in my community who want to lift other women up and help them to become successful.”

If you would like to know more about KNOW Women or if you’d like to join our group, you can visit the KNOW website at www.theknowwomen.com.

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Brandon/Winthrop

January 2022

Page 29

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE BRANDON BRONCOS.)

BRANDON BRONCOS YOUTH FOOTBALL ORGANIZATION HONORS FALLEN TEAMMATE

Brandon Broncos star Alex Alicea passed away in early October.

The Brandon Broncos youth football organization is mourning the loss of one of their own. Brandon native, 16-year-old Alex Alicea passed away in October. The team is honoring him in several ways, including their play on the field.

The Broncos have not only dedicated its fall season to Alicea, but they have also incorporated LLA (Long Live Alex) throughout their facility to keep him alive in everything that they do. LLA is painted on the field, woven in the fence and in the cheerleaders’ bows and signs that they use in their routines. The players chant his nickname, ‘lights out,’ before and after every game. Several of the older players got matching tattoos to honor their fallen teammate, who wore No. 1.

Alex Alicea’s nickname was ‘lights out.’

“Alex wasn’t just a friend of mine, he was a brother,” said teammate Jakob Beamon.

“Knowing he is gone just won’t ever sit right with me. I miss him. His personality was like no other, always so full of energy.

He carried all of us on that field. He was our leader.”

Alicea not only left a mark on his teammates and coaches, but his community as well. Broncos President Jerilynn Beamon described Alicea as a fun-loving kid that made everybody laugh and had an infectious attitude that touched the people he came into contact with. She said that he always had a smile on his face. Roughly 300 people came to a candlelight vigil to honor his life, which was tragically lost in a shooting.

The Broncos have not only dedicated its fall season to Alicea, but they have also incorporated LLA (Long Live Alex) throughout their facility.

Alex Alicea celebrates with his teammate after a big play.

Broncos Coach/Athletic Director Josh Beamon, who coached Alicea for seven years, will feel his loss for the rest of his life.

“He made everybody around him better through hard work and leadership, both players and coaches,” Josh. “He was the one player that I built my organization around—he was my franchise player. He will never be forgotten. ‘I got you, Coach,’ was his saying. No matter what needed to be done, he always said, ‘I got you, Coach.’”

The organization’s 8U team went undefeated and was its first team to go to the Super Bowl in 19 years. Three out of their five teams made the playoffs. Jerilynn believes that Alicea helped lead the teams in spirit and that he was their inspiration.

The Broncos have had a motto that

they’ve lived by this season: one team, one goal, one family. Josh said that it truly feels like they lost a part of their family when Alex passed. For the spring season, they will have an LLA patch added to the jerseys, and they will give out an award in his name to a player that embodies his character. The organization will retire Alicea’s No. 1 jersey as well.

The organization is accepting donations on behalf of the family. If interested, donations can be made several of ways, including through Cash App at $Brandonbroncos, PayPal at broncoscheer@brandonbroncos. org and checks and cash in person at the Broncos park (3104 S Kings Ave. in Brandon) or mailed to P.O. Box 2001, Brandon, FL 33509.

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BRIDGES DENTAL HIRES NEWSOME HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE AND VALRICO NATIVE DR. DAU

By Lily Belcher

to establish relationships with my patients and provide them with a service to improve their overall health and self-confidence.”

Dau described the dedication Bridges Dental has to both their customers and employees. Dr. Laura Bridges, who owns the practice, is a working mom, like Dau, and prioritizes a healthy work-life balance in the office. Dau’s work-life balance is especially important because she has two toddlers with her husband, Brandon Waracksa, who is an economics teacher at Durant High School.

Bridges was also raised in Valrico and attended Bloomingdale High School. Bridges wanted to continue to work in her hometown Valrico native Dr. Caroline Dau graduated from Newsome so she can serve her own commuHigh School and was eager to work in her hometown after nity. going away for college.

“You know how you can walk In January, Newsome High School grad- into a place and feel that everyone is happy uate Dr. Caroline Dau started working for to be there? I felt that way when I walked local dentist Bridges Dental in Valrico. Dau into Bridges Dental, and I knew I wanted to was raised in Valrico and attended Randall be a part of that environment,” said Dau. Middle School before starting at Newsome.

Dau has had many patients that have She left Florida to attend the University of been hesitant and scared to go to the dentist Notre Dame, where she majored in biology, because of a bad experience they have had and got her Doctorate in Dental Science at in the past. She said that their fear is usualthe University of California. She was eager ly eased during their first appointment and to return to Florida and excited to serve her that she treats each patient how she would hometown community as a dentist. treat one of her own family members.

Dau first discovered her interest in sci“It is not easy to gain someone’s trust and ence by watching Bill Nye the Science Guy it isn’t something that I take lightly,” she on PBS. She originally considered going into said. research, but it lacked the human interacFor more information on Bridges Dental, tion she enjoyed in dentistry. visit its website bridgesdental.com or con“I really love being a dentist,” said Dau. tact 654-3399 or info@bridgesdental.com.

“It brings me great satisfaction to be able

Volume 17, Issue 1

TERRIFIC KID BECOMES KIWANIAN HERSELF AFTER HERO GRANT

Staff Report

Karisya ‘Ysa’ During high Moran-Adames school, with the was first introbacking of the Kiduced to Kiwanis wanis Club, Mo15 years ago, in ran-Adames was 2007, when she recognized as a was honored as a G. Harold MarTerrific Kid in sectin Outstanding ond grade.

Key Club Presi“I was beyond dent two years ecstatic and exin a row for the cited to be rec- Tampa Bay Lightning Community Hero of Tomorrow pre- Florida district ognized as a sentation. Photographed (left to right): Jim Powell, Dustie and a Tampa Terrific Kid at Amatangelo, Karisya ‘Ysa’ Moran-Adames, Mike Daigle Bay Lightning and Janet Daigle.

Mintz ElementaCommunity ry School in Brandon,” said Moran-Adames. Hero of Tomorrow, which awarded a total of “At the time I had no idea that this ceremo- $50,000; $25,000 was applied to her educany would be one of many encounters that I tion and the other $25,000 to the organizawould have with the Kiwanis Club of Greater tion of her choice.

Brandon, nor how much of an impact this orSince graduating high school and attending ganization would have on my life.” college, she has continued her involvement Moran-Adames is now a member of the with the organization that had given me so club that honored her. much by stepping in to serve as the social “Fast forward to 2014, I was a shy fresh- media director and increasing club awareman in high school looking for a way to volun- ness online and by also increasing her efforts teer and make a difference in my community,” in Project SonrYsa. she explained. “I was then reunited with the “Fourteen years after I was first named Kiwanis Club of Greater Brandon as we went a Terrific Kid by the Kiwanis Club of Greaton a journey to charter a Key Club at my high er Brandon, I officially joined the club as a school.”

Kiwanis member this fall,” she said. “The KiIn her sophomore year of high school, Mo- wanis organization has truly been the single ran-Adames took on the position of Key Club most important factor in my life trajectory. president.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Brandon truly “I had no idea how to lead a club or to in- embodies the mission of improving the world spire the Key Clubbers at my school to exem- one child and one community at a time and plify the Key Club motto, ‘Caring—our way has inspired me to help serve the children of life,’” she said. “At the age of 15, the Kiwa- of the world. As a new Kiwanian, I can only nians saw in me something that I wouldn’t hope that I can give back to the Kiwanis Club recognize in myself for years—a leader. As of Greater Brandon as much as they have givI went on as the Key Club president for two en to me.” more years, the Kiwanians continued to supTo learn more about the Kiwanis Club of port me and push me to be not only the best Greater Brandon, visit https://brandonkiwanKey Clubber but the best leader I could be.” is.org/.

WWW.WOMENSCAREFL.COM

January 2022

Brandon/Winthrop

Page 31

LEARN A NEW TRADE AT MT. ZION CONSTRUCTION TRAINING PROGRAM

By Tatiana Ortiz

Those seeking to at Mt. Zion gain a fresh start AME Church in their lives or caR i ve r v i ew, reers can apply for shared how the Second Chances timely this Construction Traintraining ing Program. The program is, rotating program is especially held at Mt. Zion AME with some Church Riverview in still searchassociation with the ing for emnonprofit organizaployment tion Adonai’s Second and such.

Chances, Inc., (ASCI) “ B o t h Kito Karim Lopes, a newly enrolled student of Riverwhich is dedicated to the building view, receiving his training materials. serving the needs of trades, highthe Hillsborough County comway and heavy construcmunity. Participants will get tion industry, offer great an opportunity to get certified, long-term careers with paid on-the-job training internbenefits and have a wealth ships; gain skills in the buildof open opportunities for ing trades; highway and heavy qualified applicants,” Sims construction; as well as earn said. their GED (general education With its uniquely pracdevelopment) and more. A totical and straightforward tal of 50 candidates are allotapproach, participants ted for this year’s program to can start applying their complete the course with paid new skills after eight to internships.

10 weeks of training. ASCI On October 1, 2021, the program came prepares students with all different backto Mt. Zion AME Church Riverview. grounds and more with the necessary The program is funded by the Hillsbor- knowledge and tools to help reach their ough County Board of County Commis- goals. sioners (BOCC) with funding from the “These training programs can turn lives U.S. Department of Housing and Urban around for the entire family,” Sims said.

Development (HUD). It is open to inFor more information, visit https:// come-eligible residents of unincorporated www.ascbuildingfutures.com. The church Hillsborough County. Classes are offered is located at 5920 Robert Tolle Dr. in RivMonday through Thursday with an option erview. To apply, send contact informafor make up and fast-forward classes on tion to asc2021project@gmail.com or Fridays. Structured class instruction is pick up an application at Mt. Zion AME from 2-6 p.m.

Church Riverview from Monday through Rev. Karen Jackson Sims, senior pastor Friday anytime between 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

USHERS ARE THE HEART AND SOUL OF STRAZ

By Kathy L. Collins If you love going to see than welcome to sign live Broadway shows, The up for as many shows Florida Orchestra and Opera as they would like to Tampa, consider becoming work.” an usher for the Straz Center.

Shows are assigned Ushers go through an orion the 15th of each entation class, which includes month. a tour. After the class, they The Straz Center work two training shows offers the training with a senior usher who has program throughout been designated as a mentor. the year. Ushers must The class is three hours long. pay for their uniform, Ushers must be able to stand but they are given for up to three hours if no complimentary parkVolunteering as an usher for the Straz seats are available to them. ing.

Center comes with many perks, including They will have to be able to Jean Ippolito of the opportunity to see great Broadway carry plastic bins with pro- shows, The Florida Orchestra and more. Brandon has worked grams that could weigh up With six venues, you have a wide variety. as an usher for many to 15 pounds. years. Ippolito said, You are also performing a valuable service for a beloved local institution.

As an usher, you get to “I volunteered and see amazing shows. Morewas trained as an over, according to Deborah Ferree, senior usher in 2008. Anyone who has even a camanager of Guest Services, “We frequently sual interest in the performing arts can conhave ticket deals so they can buy tickets for tribute greatly by volunteering. There are nufriends and family to see the shows. We have merous assignments from which to choose. an annual dinner for the ushers that includes The administrative staff always expresses a cocktail hour and a wonderful meal and en- appreciation to the volunteers. I thoroughly tertainment. We also have a BBQ every fall enjoy each production.” to welcome them back.”

The Straz Center has been offering the The Straz Center has two types of users: usher program since it opened. In fact, FerChoice and Master. Ferree said, “We require ree said, “We have 11 ushers that have been the Choice ushers to sign up for two shows here since the doors opened.” Ferree added, per month. The Master ushers sign up for “Our ushers are very important to the Straz any show that is on their chosen date or Center. They are the heart and soul of the time. For example, Saturday matinee Master center. We would not be able to make the ushers are expected to sign up for Saturday magic happen without them.” matinee shows, if we have them. Of course, For more information, please contact Ferboth Choice and Master ushers are more ree at 229-7827.

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Brandon/Winthrop

Volume 17, Issue 1

Year In Review-Updates On The Top Stories From 2021 PORTION OF STATE ROAD 60 RENAMED IN HONOR OF FALLEN HCSO SGT. BRIAN LAVIGNE

By Tatiana Ortiz

In November, nated honorRepresentative ing fallen law Andrew Learned, enforcement along with other officers. Sgt. members of the LaVigne along Florida Legislature, with Dep. MiHillsborough Counchael Magli ty Sheriff Chad with the PiChronister and nellas County Hillsborough CounSheriff’s Office ty Commissioner and Master Kimberly Overman, Patrol Officer honored the late Jesse MadSergeant Brian Deputy Caitlin LaVigne stands with her father Cor- sen with the LaVigne during poral Brian LaVigne while he received an award at Tampa Police the Alafia River Chapter NSDAR. an unveiling of his Department road plaque in the portion of SR 60 from were also recognized with commemorative Philip Lee Blvd. to I-75, which now has his roadway namings in the signing of the bill. name.

“We commemorated three heroes who “Sergeant Brian LaVigne will never be made the ultimate sacrifice to protect their forgotten, and this will serve as another communities,” Gov. DeSantis said. “Serving reminder of his selfless service to his com- in law enforcement is a noble calling and munity until the very end of his life,” said deserves nothing less than our full support Chronister at the ceremony. “Now when and respect. These were the type of men people drive down this stretch of road- we need in law enforcement,” he added. way, they will be reminded of the legacy As of July 1, State Road 60 between and impact left by Sergeant LaVigne.”

Interstate 75 and Phillip Lee Boulevard in Hillsborough County is now designated as Original Story Printed August 2021 On January 11, 2021, Sgt. Brian LaVigne “Sergeant Brian LaVigne Road.”

The two additional renamed roadways was killed in the line of duty while assisting his fellow Hillsborough County Sheriff’s include County Road 611 between KeyDepartment officers on a service call in stone Road and Forelock Road in Pinellas Brandon. An individual, fleeing from law County now known as “Deputy Michael enforcement, struck Sgt. Brian LaVigne’s J. Magli Memorial Road.” And, Interstate vehicle which caused injuries which ulti- 275 between East Sligh Avenue and East mately took his life. Sgt. LaVigne, a 31-year Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard in is veteran of the department was one shift now known as “Officer Jesse Madsen Mefrom retirement when he was struck and morial Highway.”

“I am honored to make sure these brave killed.

On June 18, Governor Ron DeSantis heroes are never forgotten. May God grant signed Senate Bill 1716, which is an act their families and coworkers peace and relating to transportation facilities desig- comfort,” Hooper said.

BULLSEYE: BLOOMINGDALE BASEBALL TEAM HITS THE MARK, WINS STATE TITLE

By Nick Nahas

Bowen, who was arguably the heart and soul of the Bulls, was in the middle of the order, hitting fourth with a .382 batting average and a team high 25 runs batted in. It was Bowen’s first season as a starting varsity player after sitting behind star slugging outfielder Dominic Gonnella. He started the season hitting at the bottom The Bloomingdale Bulls Varsity Baseball team won their first state of the order before later championship. “This team didn’t need coaches to keep them focused, breaking through in a big the team encouraged each other,” said Coach Wilson. way. He had the key hit The Bloomingdale High School baseball against Fleming Island team is looking forward to defending their with a triple over the left fielder’s head, drivchampionship in the spring. Five players ing in two runs and extending the Bull’s lead from the team have signed to play baseball to 4-0 in the third inning. in college, including Colby Shelton (UniverAfter beating St. Petersburg High School sity of Alabama), Drake Harman (Santa Fe 3-2 in the district championship, BloomingCollege), Jack Owen (Stetson University), dale (24-6) had a string of close wins leading Stephen Montgomery (Iowa Western Uni- up to the state final. They had a 7-4 comeback versity) and Chase Chappell (Santa Fe Col- victory against Gaither High School after lege). trailing 4-1 early on, defeated Mitchell High Original Story Printed July 2021.

School 2-1 and finished off Gulf Coast High The Bloomingdale High School baseball School 4-3 to claim their first regional title program made history, winning its first state since 2014. The Bulls used stellar defense, title. The Bulls defeated Fleming Island High great base running and timely hitting to beat School 5-1 in the FHSAA Class 6A State Dwyer High School to reach their first state Championship on May 22 at Hammond Sta- title game since the team came up a little bit dium in Fort Myers. short against South Dade High School in the “I instantly felt a rush of adrenaline as 2014 state championship game. soon as he hit the fly ball my way, and once The Bulls are expected to make another it was in my glove, I just thought, ‘We did run for the title next season with 16 returnit,’” said senior outfielder Marlon Bowen, ing players, including shortstop and Clemson who took home MVP honors with his 4-for- University commit Colby Shelton, ace pitch5 weekend. “It was only excitement going er and Stetson University commit Jack Owthrough my head.” ens and leadoff hitter Drake Harman.

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Brandon/Winthrop

January 2022

Page 33

Year In Review-Updates On The Top Stories From 2021

BELL SHOALS, 3.1-MILE ROAD WIDENING UPDATE

By Brian Bokor

The project to widen the 3.1-mile stretch of Bell Shoals Rd. from Boyette Rd. north to Bloomingdale Ave. is moving along.

Construction on Bell Shoals Rd. has been moving along steadily in 2021. According to Hillsborough County Senior Media Relations Strategist Chris Wilkerson, the contractor is currently working on the new northbound roadway from south of Glenhaven to Rosemead and the southbound roadway from north of Rosemead to north of Bloomingdale. “These sections are anticipated to be completed in July,” he said. “Additionally, the new southbound bridge over Bell Shoals is under construction and should be completed by the end of 2022.”

According to Wilkerson, completion of entire project is projected to be in January 2023.

Original Story Printed June 2021.

Work accomplished to date on the 3.1-mile stretch of Bell Shoals Rd. from Boyette Rd. north to Bloomingdale Ave. has been primarily associated with land clearing, utility relocation and retention pond construction necessary to accommodate the new fourlane divided highway. But more changes are ahead on this major project.

Drivers traveling from Boyette Rd. towards

Bloomingdale Ave. will notice the northbound Alafia bridge addition, including bike lanes and sidewalks, now under construction.

Once this northbound portion of the bridge has been completed, traffic will shift and the existing southbound lanes will undergo similar renovations. Expect bridgework to be completed mid to late 2022.

The large cleared area north of the bridge on the east side will become one of several retention ponds necessary for drainage of excess water runoff created by the project, with additional areas located adjacent to the south of Three Bulls plaza, between Rosemead Ln. and Jiffy Lube, as well as north of the Bloomingdale Ave. intersection on the west side.

When asked why so many ponds were needed and what the estimated timeframe was from this point going forward, Hillsborough County Design Manager of the Capital Programs Department Sandra González, P.E. told me the retention areas were a statutory requirement.

“The ponds are designed to hold a certain amount of rainfall that is determined by the

amount of impervious area (asphalt and concrete) that is being constructed,” she said.

“The project began on schedule in late 2018 and is set to be completed on schedule by December 2022.”

An idea of what a typical cross section of the new road will look like when complete can been seen between Bloom Hill Ave. and Three Bulls plaza, where the majority of engineering work is done. The design features 6 ft. wide sidewalks, curbs and gutters; 4 ft. wide bike paths; and two 12 ft. wide lanes on either side of a fully landscaped, raised center median.

The median from Glenhaven Dr. to Rosemead Ln. will be fully irrigated and maintained by the Bloomingdale Special Taxing District through a formal maintenance agreement with the county. This will allow the district control of landscaping upkeep and design, which is still in the formative stages. The median from Glenhaven Dr. south to Boyette Rd. will be nonirrigated and maintained by the county.

From Glenhaven Dr. north to Bloomingdale Ave., utility relocation is ongoing, with the

challenges ahead focused around completing the remaining northbound lane sections, renovating the existing southbound sections and widening the four signalized intersections at Glenhaven Dr., Rosemead Ln., Starwood Ave. and Bloomingdale Ave. Maps of each neighborhood entrance located along Bell Shoals Rd. in the work zone can be found by visiting HCFLGov.net/CountyProjects, clicking on “Government” (top of page), then “County Projects” and then “Highlighted CIP Projects,” where you’ll find the link to the Bell Shoals Road Widening project with detailed maps available there for every community. Please contact Public Works at 635-5400 with any additional questions.

The Bloomingdale intersection will be expanded to include dual left-turn lanes, dual center-thru lanes and single right-turn lanes for drivers headed in either direction on Bell Shoals Rd., which should alleviate some congestion, along with the retiming of the traffic signals at Rosemead Ln. and Starwood Ave. to allow for a smooth flow of traffic through this busy area.

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Brandon/Winthrop

Volume 17, Issue 1

January 2022

Brandon/Winthrop

Page 35

Year In Review-Updates On The Top Stories From 2021 ECHO OPENS NEW OPPORTUNITY CENTER IN RIVERVIEW

By Anika Shah

opened a new Opportunity Center at its Riverview branch on June 17.

The center will provide job coaching, GED help in English and Spanish, financial workshops and one-on-one tutoring for locals in crisis.

Dianne Horncastle, Opportunity Center director, “We are looking to help people stabilize, however needed,” she ECHO of Riverview opened a new Opportunity Center, offering classes said. such as sewing in addition to job fairs and other ways to help.

The center helps those “This past year has been one of great displaced in the job marchange and growth for ECHO,” said Director ket due to education level, technological limEleanor Saunders. itations or the COVID-19 pandemic through The local charity added two full-time ad- multiple facets of the employment process. vocates to its team.

The organization is run entirely by volun“An ECHO advocate is a cross between teers like teachers, lawyers and HR managa social worker and a life coach,” she ex- ers that use their various skills sets to teach plained. “They help our neighbors secure classes on topics ranging from finance to affordable housing, financial assistance and social media marketing. The center is also connect them with a variety of community sponsored by Bank of America, which not supports and programs.” only provides funding but also hosts workECHO also expanded its Riverview out- shops, such as mock interview, and offers a reach center to include an on-site job coach, pathway to work at the company itself. advocate and an ESL class, and the new This is ECHO’s second opportunity center, thrift store exceeded all first-year expecta- after the Brandon location on Parsons Ave., tions. and comes in addition to many other pro“We were recognized as a Best in the Bay grams offered, including a food pantry and for our category,” said Saunders. thrift shop.

“The support from the community has If you are interested in the programs, been strong and 100 percent of the net please email Horncastle at opportunity@ proceeds from the store support our emer- echofl.org, contact her at 540-9880 or congency food/clothing, advocacy and back-to- nect on Facebook @ECHOBrandon. ECHO of work programs.”

Riverview is located on 7807 Capitano St. Original Story Printed July 2021. and is open Monday through Friday from 9 ECHO (Emergency Care Help Organization) a.m.-1 p.m.

LOCAL BUSINESS OWNER RUNS FOR BRANDON HONORARY MAYOR

By Kate Quesada

FishHawk resident and local Business order to rehabilitate and rehome them to Owner Melissa Canfield was named hon- loving families in our area. orary mayor in July after campaigning “I am super excited to work hard for by holding events and raising funds for these two amazing charities this year,” weeks. She presented checks from her said Canfield. “Two amazing organizations fundraising to the that I am proud to charities she ran be associated with. to benefit. Raining Kids and pets, two Cats and Dogs Shelthings we all love. ter & Sanctuary and I especially apRotary’s Camp Florpreciate the fact ida each received that each organiza$16,612.50; Cantion has a specific field’s sponsoring need which we are 501(c)(3), the Valriworking to fulfill.” co FishHawk ChamCanfield’s goal is ber of Commerce, to help Camp Roreceived $4,430; tary repair boards and The Community and railings along Roundtable, which its docks. organizes the event, “This is necesreceived $6,645. sary so children Original Story can safely access Printed June 2021. the water area, and One of Brandon’s that is something Lithia resident Melissa Canfield, former most well-loved tra- owner of HiTech Automotive, is running for we can help with diHonorary Mayor of Brandon. ditions is kicking off rectly,” she said. next month. The annual Honorary Mayor’s The funds she hIn order to raise the Race, which is made up of fundraising op- funds, Canfield has organized a number portunities for local charities, will take of events that will take place throughout place throughout June with only one can- June. didate, Melissa Canfield, former co-owner “There will also be a bowling tournaof HiTech Automotive. ment, bunco night, Cruella movie night Canfield, who has lived in Lithia since and I have even heard of a potential Elvis 2001, will be raising funds for Camp Ro- sighting,” said Canfield, who is planning tary, an outdoor camp offering special to end the month with a strictly online needs children a traditional summer camp bidding auction from Wednesday, June experience, and Raining Cats and Dogs 30 to Friday, July 2. For more, search for Animal Shelter, which cares for local pets ‘Melissa4BrandonMayor’ on Facebook or that are sick or have been abandoned in visit www.valricofishhawk.org.

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Page 36

Brandon/Winthrop

Volume 17, Issue 1

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