Osprey Observer Brandon/Winthrop February by Osprey Observer

Registration is now open for the 11th annual Cardinal Roofing Clay Shoot, scheduled for Friday, March 28. This funﬁlled day includes sporting clays, a full barbecue, a silent auction and a ra e.

Brandon/ Winthrop February 2025

11TH CARDINAL ROOFING CLAY SHOOT BENEFITS WE ARE THE ESSENTIALS

By Sharon Still

The event will kick-o at 11:30 a.m. at FishHawk Sporting Clays, 13505 Hobson Simmons Rd. in Lithia. The fee of $250 per person or $800 per team includes 50 clays, goody bag, shirts, sells, lunch, a golf cart and beer “after the guns are put away.”

The tournament’s tagline is “Shoot for those who shot for us,” and all proceeds will beneﬁt We Are The Essentials, a group of former law enforcement o cers and former military service members, now private investigators, who are providing search and recovery for families with missing loved ones in an e ort to bring answers to those families. With a motto of “No one left behind,” this self-funded organization recently became a 501(c)(3) corporation, accepting donations and rewards on solved cases to o set the cost of investigations and purchase equipment.

“They are absolutely incredible and an asset to our community,” said Rachael Andrews of Cardinal Rooﬁng.

The group gained notability after assisting in the Gabby Petito-Brian Laundrie case and have successfully located many missing persons in local high-proﬁle cases.

These talented individuals who volunteer their time and resources have one goal: making a difference and helping families locate their loved ones.”

To learn more about We Are The Essentials, visit www.wearetheessentials. com.

Presented by Cardinal Roofing, the organizers are grateful for the returning sponsors and are looking for additional sponsorships, ra e baskets, silent auction items and swag bag items. Join sponsors Chick-fil-A, Phillips Creative, JF Kicks, DH2 Building Associates and others as they give back to the community. Donations may be dropped o at the Cardinal Roofing o ce, located at 1312 Orangewalk Dr. in Brandon, between 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

“We can’t wait to celebrate year 11 with you,” added Andrews.

Cardinal Rooﬁng is a huge supporter of area schools and other local organizations.

“Giving back and being a part of the community where we live, work and raise our families in is very important to us,” commented Cardinal Rooﬁng owner Bridget Jenkins. “This community has supported Cardinal Rooﬁng going on 30 years, and we will continue to give back to the community we call home.”

Find out more and sign-up at www.girlroofer.com or by calling 813-689-7663.

HURRICANE CLEANUP CONTINUES WITH DEBRIS PILE MANAGEMENT

The howling of the wind has died down, ﬂoodwaters have receded and debris has been collected; what remains are large piles of the collected vegetation and manmade goods.

By Brad Stager

the numerous stakeholders involved when there is a signiﬁcant debris-generating event. There were a number of di erent departments as well as municipalities that pulled together their resources, expertise and experience to

How much debris? The numbers from Hillsborough County indicate that the accumulated total consisting of vegetation, building materials and personal possessions amounts to an estimated 4.8 million cubic feet, a volume that could ﬁll Raymond James Stadium 11 times, per the county’s calculations.

According to Kim Byer, who administers the county’s public works e orts, ﬁnding a place to put all that debris is a major task.

“Following a major debris-generating event such as Hurricane Milton, there can be challenges in ﬁnding properly permitted facilities, as there is a large volume of mulch available from the projects across Florida,” she said in an email. “Mulch from debris collection activities resulting from Hurricanes Helene and Milton will be taken to a properly permitted facility that can accept mulch. Uses for this material may include composting, decorative mulch, biofuel, soil amendment and/or alternative daily cover at privately operated landﬁlls.”

Byer added that a lot of knowledge has been acquired about dealing with an unprecedented mess like what the 2024 hurricane season left behind.

“Planners have learned how crucial communication and coordination is amongst

ensure we could carry out a successful debris operation,” said Byer.

Much of the debris has been brought to county properties such as the Sydney Dover Conservation Park, which has been closed because of the debris. O cials have not indicated when those facilities will reopen to the public.

While the large-scale collection operation has ended, residents can still dispose of debris with their appropriate regular trash pickups, adhering to regular pickup requirements, or take the material to a county waste facility. According to the county’s website, vegetative debris can only be disposed of at the South County and Northwest County Waste Disposal facilities, which also accept solid waste. Three other community collection centers, located in Se ner, Plant City and Wimauma, only accept construction and other solid waste material.

Now that debris has been collected, county o cials are faced with what to do

e Cardinal Roo ng Clay Shoot is a family a air for Cardinal Roo ng owner Bridget Wilson (center) with her sister, Cassie Jenkins, and mom, Debbie Jenkins.

THE GREATER BRANDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: A YEAR IN REVIEW ECHO VOLUNTEERS CAN HELP RAISE MONEY AT THE VALSPAR GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP

Staff Report

The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce proudly reflects on a year of remarkable achievements, growth and community engagement. Throughout the past year, the chamber staff and board of directors have strengthened its mission of fostering business success, advocacy and networking opportunities, resulting in numerous milestones worth celebrating.

The chamber welcomed 75 new members, further expanding its network of businesses that dedicate themselves to driving local economic development. Additionally, the chamber hosted an impressive 60 collaborative events, providing valuable networking opportunities that connect professionals across industries.

A key highlight of the year was the launch of the Government Affairs Forum event, Good Morning Brandon, which received wide media coverage and provided a vital platform for discussions on legislative issues affecting local businesses. Another groundbreaking initiative, Business Builders, a weekly networking event held every Tuesday, was introduced to facilitate regular business connections and growth.

The chamber’s flagship Leadership Brandon Program celebrated an incredible 40 years of cultivating community leaders. This year’s class saw its highest participation in the past three years, reaffirm-

ing the program’s significance in shaping future leaders.

As part of its ongoing efforts to foster civic engagement, the chamber hosted the largest Candidate Hob Nob in Eastern Hillsborough County, providing residents and business owners an opportunity to meet candidates and discuss key issues impacting the community.

During a challenging hurricane season, the chamber played a crucial role in connecting businesses and the community to essential resources, reinforcing its commitment to community resilience.

Ending the year on a high note, the chamber collaborated to bring the Brandon Parade of Lights, a community holiday parade, which saw 75 dazzling entries and drew several thousand spectators, bringing joy and unity to the Greater Brandon community.

As the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce looks ahead, it remains dedicated to empowering businesses, fostering economic growth and strengthening community ties. With another successful year behind it, the chamber is poised for even greater accomplishments in the year to come.

For more information on membership and upcoming events, visit the website https://www.brandonchamber.com/

ECHO will benefit from the Valspar Golf Championship for the first time this year, with some of the proceeds from the event going to the organization.

Valspar will host its annual golf tournament from Monday, March 17, through Sunday, March 23, in Palm Harbor. Volunteers who sign up to work the championship can join a team — one of which is ECHO. For every shift worked by a volunteer on ECHO’s team, ECHO will receive $60.

Steve McKinnon, ECHO’s development manager, said it was possible for ECHO to benefit from the fundraiser this year because of its new fundraiser schedule. Now, ECHO has the time to dedicate to raising awareness and gaining volunteers who can attend the tournament.

“Once you start going west into Tampa, almost nobody knows about us,” McKinnon said. “So, with this tournament being up in the north part of the county and giving people all over the greater five-county area, opportunities to volunteer for us when they register.”

On top of the donations, the tournament will have a 15 percent match made possible by Copperhead Charities. Birdies for Tampa Bay Charities is partnering with ECHO and the Valspar Championship as well.

McKinnon said his goal is the tournament

By Lily Belcher

helps raise $6,000 for the organization. And volunteers do not have to be immediately associated with ECHO to join ECHO’s volunteering team, called TEAM25.

“This tournament opportunity does give us a chance to have people way outside of our geographic-limited service areas to contribute to ECHO by just volunteering at a fun golf tournament,” he said.

McKinnon said it gives ECHO supporters the opportunity to volunteer outside the Brandon area.

“They may have heard of us, but they don’t get an opportunity to come volunteer at any of our four centers that we have over here,” he said.

ECHO has two emergency centers and two thrift stores, one of each in Brandon and one of each in Riverview.

The money donated to ECHO from its volunteers’ involvement will fund ECHO’s three core goals, including helping families find stable housing and preventing homelessness for families at risk of homelessness.

McKinnon encouraged people to sign up to volunteer on ECHO’s TEAM25 as soon as possible.

To sign up to volunteer for the tournament on ECHO’s TEAM25, visit the website https://trusteventsolutions. com/event/140/home.

The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce is ready to celebrate a strong 2025.

\ Valspar Championship will donate some proceeds to ECHO to help local families.

BRANDON AUTO SERVICES: CELEBRATING 50 YEARS

OF TRUSTED AUTOMOTIVE CARE

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Brandon Auto Services, a trusted name in Hillsborough County’s automotive industry, marks a significant milestone as it celebrates over 50 years of providing exceptional auto repair services. Under the leadership of President Steven L. Holland and his longtime business partner, Ken Anderson, the family-owned business has maintained its reputation for integrity, personalized service and expertise since its founding in 1971.

volved in the local community and volunteers with the sheri ’s mounted posse.

Holland had some advice, “Today’s vehicle is a major expense for everyone, and when you have to consider having a repair done, you should investigate if a used part

NONPROFIT GRAZE ACADEMY REINS IN HEALING AND GROWTH

By Jane Owen

Specializing in a wide variety of services, Brandon Auto Services meets all automotive needs, from collision repair and frontend alignments to air conditioning repairs and electronic fuel injections. Whether it’s routine maintenance or complex ﬁxes, the team is equipped to handle any job with precision and care.

“We’ve always worked well together,” Anderson said. “Steve handles the ﬁnances, and I oversee the operations.”

The duo has been working side by side since taking over operations from Holland Senior in 1968, with o cial ownership transitioning to them in 1971. Reﬂecting on their early days, Anderson shared, “We started out as kids working in the wrecker yard.” Anderson, still an active part of the daily operations of the business, is also in-

makes sense to purchase or not,” advised Holland. “When considering the choice, ﬁrst analyze the cost savings, the warranty and whether the labor cost factors into the situation. Used items that most people consider purchasing are wheels, mirrors, engines and transmissions to save money on.”

The body shop at Brandon Auto Services is widely respected for its high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Holland credits the business’ continued success to the combination of skilled sta , a customer-centric approach and a strong presence in the local community.

Looking to the future, Brandon Auto Services remains focused on investing in its facilities and team to stay ahead of industry trends.

For more information, visit www.brandonautoservices.com or call 813-6512288. The shop is located at 3161 S.R. 60 E. in Valrico and operates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Graze Academy, a nonproﬁt organization located in Plant City, is transforming therapy services by combining counseling, nature and a connection between animals and humans.

Founded in 2022, Graze Academy is certiﬁed by Eagala (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association). Graze Academy’s mission is to provide compassionate and transformative mental health services through the healing power of nature and equine-assisted therapy.

Equine-assisted therapy involves working through health challenges in a nontraditional format with professional, licensed therapists and horses. Unlike traditional therapy, equine-assisted therapy is experiential, meaning clients actively engage in activities with horses, which can include grooming, feeding and ground-based exercises.

Growing up, Graze Academy founder Christina Dawson participated in 4-H. Through 4-H, she worked with Horses for Handicapped, which is where her passion for equine therapy was born.

The therapists at Graze Academy have over 20 years of experience in counseling and have seen profound beneﬁts of bringing therapy into nature.

“Our clients share with us that being in nature allows them to have so much more space and freedom to explore their feelings.

They explain that by utilizing our equine partners, they ﬁnd the support and connection that helps them heal,” Dawson said.

Rachel Lane, a licensed mental health counselor at Graze Academy, said equine therapy allows her clients to feel more open to share on a deeper level.

“They’re quicker to get to the core of their problems because the excess stress and anxiety can be lifted quite easily in the open pasture with horses, goats and beautiful pond. Nature has its own healing e ects that happens whether people like it or not,” Lane said.

In addition to equine assisted psychotherapy, Graze Academy o ers individual therapy, couples and family therapy, life and recovery coaching, group therapy sessions, community education groups and life skills for neurodivergent teens.

“My client’s mood, presenting issue and also the horses help determine the direction of the therapeutic session, such as whether we involve one horse, the whole herd or just sit in the pasture and be with the horses,” Lane said.

To learn about Eagala certiﬁcation, visit www.eagala.org. For more about Graze Academy, visit www.grazeacademyinc.org or email grazeacademyinc@gmail.com.

Graze Academy is located at 3102 Thonotosassa Rd. in Plant City.

Childhood friends Ken Anderson and Steven L. Holland have owned Brandon Auto Services for more than 50 years.

BRANDON CLASSICAL CHRISTIAN SCHOOL ADDS K AND FIRST GRADE ECHO’S CLOSET NOW AT HCA BRANDON TO PROVIDE EMERGENCY CLOTHING

When children can soak up facts like a sponge, the classical education model gives them those facts (this is called the grammar stage).

When children begin asking “Why?” about the world around them, the model guides them in seeking answers (the logic stage). And when children want to express their thoughts and ideas, the model teaches them through rhetoric. Most importantly, the classical model teaches students how to learn and guides them in loving to learn so they will be lifelong students, not just to pass their tests, get good grades and eventually land jobs.

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and are planning to add a ﬁrst grade.”

Fuller added, “We are also planning on offering the stepup scholarship in the fall.”

This is all done not only with the recognition that

Jesus Christ is the most important subject matter the school can teach but also with recognition of who the most important spiritual teachers are in children’s lives: their parents.

HCA Florida Brandon Hospital has partnered with the Emergency Care Help Organization (ECHO) to provide clothing essentials to patients in need. These patients may have had their clothing damaged in emergency care, be homeless and/or are in need support from the community.

Brandon Hospital now has ECHO’s Closet located in its emergency department. It provides clothing of all sizes for men, women and children.

This model has recently grown in popularity, as parents and teachers recognize how beneﬁcial it is as an alternative to the methods currently employed in most U.S. schools.

“Because of this, classical schools are popping up around the country, including here in Brandon. And I am excited to announce that the beginning of this school year brought with it the ﬁrst kindergarten class for a new classical school: Brandon Classical Christian [School], located at Westminster Presbyterian Church, which is also the home of Westminster Academy Preschool — a school which has served the families of Brandon and the surrounding area for 30 years,” said Jeremy Fuller, headmaster of Brandon Classical Christian School. “Along with that, I am also excited as we look ahead to next year

Parents spend the most time instructing, nurturing and inﬂuencing their children and will teach them some of the most impactful lessons they will learn, whether they intend it or not. And because parents are their children’s most inﬂuential teachers, it’s essential that they approach this role intentionally in both formal instruction and the way they live their own lives before their children’s eyes, as even their actions make statements that are oftentimes weightier than what their mouths say. Therefore, parents will and should be in regular communication with their teachers in the classical Christian model for education, including what was learned in class, how this can be reinforced at home, etc.

Brandon Classical Christian School is located at 402 E. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. To learn more about the school, visit www.wpcbrandon.org/bccs or call the Westminster Presbyterian Church o ce at 813-689-6541.

“At ECHO, we are bridging the gap between crisis and stability every day. Creating a patient clothing closet at Brandon Hospital is simply one more way for ECHO to show the community our heart. We feel grateful that Brandon Hospital has joined our cause to give patients access to much needed clothing. After emergency care, people face many challenges to recover and return to their daily lives. We feel that we have a partner in Brandon Hospital in this process,” said Annmarie Macaluso, ECHO store manager.

“It’s important that when a patient is being discharged that they are looking and feeling their best. By providing clothes, especially for patients whose clothes were severely damaged in emergency care or to those who just don’t have a clean outﬁt, we feel like we connect better with the community. We want to take care of their health but also their overall well-being. Not only does ECHO’s Closet connect them with clothing when they are in need, but we are able to guide patients to the

great resource we have in this community with ECHO,” said Dr. Sergio Martinez, emergency room physician at Brandon Hospital. Clothing donations can be dropped o at one of the ECHO Thrift locations: ECHO North at 424 W. Brandon Blvd. and ECHO South at 815 W. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. Financial donations can be provided at https://echoﬂ.org/give-today/.

ECHO was founded in 1987 in partnership with the Brandon Ministerial Association and the business community. It was created so churches and others could send people in need to one central location. ECHO was originally housed at a local ﬁrehouse and only provided emergency food and clothing. At this time, volunteers sta it completely.

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

HCA Florida Brandon Hospital is also one of America’s 250 Best Hospitals for 2025, according to new research released by Healthgrades, the No. 1 site Americans use when searching for a doctor or hospital. This achievement reﬂects Brandon Hospital’s unwavering commitment to exceptional patient care and puts the organization in the top 5 percent of hospitals nationwide for overall clinical performance.

Nurses and hospital sta at HCA Florida Brandon Hospital now have resources available on-site through a partnership with ECHO of Brandon.

FACE ACADEMY AT BRANDON FURTHERS DISTRICTWIDE SCHOOL INITIATIVE

The inaugural, in-person Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Academy at Brandon High School in November 2024 served as a model of what’s to come at a similar event scheduled in March at Tampa Bay Technical High School.

By Linda Chion

behavior and course completion,” Misciasci said.

At the inaugural FACE Academy at Brandon High in November, Principal Jeremy Klein said he was a firm believer in the FACE Academy, which offered rough-

PB&J MINISTRIES AT NATIVITY WILL CELEBRATE 20 YEARS SERVING THE COMMUNITY

By Ashley Abene

Together, the two signature events spread the word about the school district’s FACE offerings, an ongoing initiative that involves roughly 250 FACE ambassadors at schools districtwide. Educators work with school and community leaders, groups and organizations to foster a sense of community and mutual support driven to ensure student success.

“We’re trying to make sure we wrap our arms not just around the kids but also their families, and we’re trying to do it in a very present and active way,” said Sandra Misciasci, a longtime educator and now the school district’s FACE supervisor.

According to Misciasci, more than 800 families reported back to FACE, through a survey, that they needed to learn more about social and emotional well-being and financial literacy and workforce skills.

“Another huge component was literacy skills, all of which [have] a direct relationship on a student’s attendance, their

ly 20 workshops on a variety of topics, including mental wellness; empowering literacy at home and for college success; literacy strategies for students in pre-K through grade 12; navigating digital literacy; using AI to aid with homework; financial literacy, including raising a money-smart kid as well as understanding and building credit; and creating and maintaining generational wealth.

“When I think about FACE, I think about our partners,” Klein said at the event in November 2024, where exhibitors included representatives from the YMCA, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Seniors in Service, United Way Suncoast, Feeding Tampa Bay, Lutheran Services and the Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resources System.

“As a community school,” Klein said, our aim is to see how can the community support the work on campus, and how can we support the needs of the community.”

For more information, visit www.hillsboroughschools.org/page/11200.

In the United States, there are 771,000 homeless people. In Hillsborough County alone, 1,893 people are currently homeless. However, Luann Leahy, Jim Courtney and Joan Courtney have been helping with the homeless crisis for almost 20 years within the Brandon area, by making peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

In 2005, Leahy knew she wanted to help people but didn’t know where to start. She had heard of a group in Seffner at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church that handed out peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to the homeless. Leahy decided she wanted to do that for the local community. She organized a peanut butter and jelly drive, entitled Peanut Butter and Jelly Ministries (PB&J Ministries), with Nativity Catholic Church. In the beginning, there were only a handful of volunteers who came and helped make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. But PB&J Ministries was able to turn out 60 sandwiches a month.

After some time, PB&J Ministries began to make and give out 8,000 to 12,000 sandwiches a month. As of December 2024, 1,000,200 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches have been made and distributed. Currently, the ministry distributes these sandwiches to 13 ministries throughout Hillsborough County.

Every other Friday, from 8-11 a.m., anywhere between 75-100 volunteers gather at the Nativity Catholic Church social hall to make peanut butter sandwiches. There is also a drive-by volunteer option where supplies can be collected from the church, brought home to make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and then returned to the church for distribution.

PB&J Ministries also gives out goody bags three times a year. For summer, it distributes backpacks and school supplies. For Christmas, it distributes Santa stockings and toys. For Easter, it distributes socks, bug repellant, pop-top canned food and Easter baskets for the children.

PB&J Ministries is always looking for volunteers to make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. But it also accepts gently used items at the church and monetary donations to gather supplies. High school kids are also able to use time volunteering with this ministry for service hours.

For more information, visit PB&J Ministry’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/peanutbutterandjellyministry or stop by Nativity Catholic Church, located at 705 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon, off State Road 60, to volunteer in the social hall.

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Photos courtesy of Linda Chion.

FACE supervisor Sandra Misciasci (Left) and Brandon High School Principal Jeremy Klein(Right) at the inaugural FACE Academy at Brandon High, a districtwide Hillsborough County schools initiative.

Every other Friday morning, PB&J Ministries volunteers gather to make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for those in need.

TAMPA BAY TO HOST HISTORIC FIRST

MATCH BETWEEN AMERICA’S TOP WOMEN’S PRO SOCCER LEAGUES

In a matchup that will feature Olympic gold medalists, members of the U.S. Women’s National Team and veterans of World Cup competition, the Tampa Bay Sun Football Club has announced a historic match against Gotham FC of the National Women’s Soccer League on Sunday, March 2, at 6 p.m. at downtown Tampa’s Riverfront Stadium.

As the popularity of women’s sports surges across the U.S., this groundbreaking game will be the ﬁrst time a team from the newly established USL Super League has taken on a team from America’s other top-tier women’s professional soccer league — the long-established National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).

Representing the 13-year-old NWSL will be Gotham FC, the league’s 2023 champion. A football powerhouse, Gotham FC’s roster, features multiple players from gold-medal-winning Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics, including Rose Lavelle, Tierna Davidson and Emily Sonnett.

Tampa Bay Sun FC ﬁelds three of the top goal scorers in the USL Super League in Carlee Giammona, Cecilie Fløe Nielsen and Natasha Flint. The club will host the matchup at their home ﬁeld, Riverfront Stadium, located along the Hillsborough River in Tampa’s downtown, providing a platform to celebrate the power and promise of women’s sports.

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“This game represents a signiﬁcant milestone for both leagues and serves as a testament to the growing strength and visibility of women’s professional soccer in the United States,” said Christina Unkel, president and general manager of Tampa Bay Sun FC. “Whether you’re a longtime soccer fan or just want to have a great time, we’re excited for everyone to join us at Riverfront Stadium for this one-of-a-kind game.”

Tampa Bay Sun FC is the first professional women’s soccer team in Tampa. The Sun light up the pitch, playing their home games in a stunning, newly renovated Riverfront Stadium situated along Hillsborough River in downtown Tampa. Joining the USL Super League’s historic inaugural season, the Tampa Bay Sun FC is one of eight initial markets paving the way for a national expansion of first-division professional women’s soccer. With a shared vision to become a global leader in the sport, both on and o the field, paves the way for increased opportunities for talented female athletes across the country, fostering growth and empowerment within local communities.

Riverfront Stadium is located at 1701 N. Blvd. in Tampa. For tickets and more information, go to www.tampabaysunfc.com.

THE MISSING PIECE THEATRE PERFORMS 37 OF SHAKESPEARE’S PLAYS IN 97 MINUTES

In July of 2022, April Golombek and Steven Bucko met Chelsea Young from the city of Mulberry. The city had recently renovated a beautiful old theater called The Gem.

Golombek and Bucko were looking for a future home for a theater company that didn’t exist … yet.

“Chelsea was eager to have live theater at The Gem,” Bucko said. “It was a perfect match. We assembled the team and quickly went to work creating what would become The Missing Piece Theatre Company.”

The Missing Piece Theatre Company’s ﬁrst show, The Plot, Like Gravy, Thickens, was in March of 2023, and what was to initially be a two-show season quickly became four.

“Between the support of our audiences and the amazing partnership with the city of Mulberry, we quickly realized that we had found our home,” Bucko said. “Our second season added another four shows and here we are starting season three.”

The mission of The Missing Piece Theatre is to create immersive arts experiences, stimulate curiosity and challenge audiences to join them in telling the next story.

“This season is a journey through the ‘classics,’” Bucko said. “Whether it is a silly look at Shakespeare; Anything Goes, the classic Cole Porter musical; the Disney [classic] The Little Mermaid Jr.; or probably the most classic American play of all time, Out Town, we are thrilled to continue to partner with the Mulberry community to provide high-quality theatrical experiences

By Libby Hopkins

for our audience, with the lowest ticket prices of any community theater.”

The theater group’s latest production is The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) [Revised] [Again], which is one of the world’s most frequently produced plays. Featuring all 37 of Shakespeare’s plays, performed in 97 minutes by three actors, this fast-paced, witty, physical comedy will bring laughter for Shakespeare lovers and haters alike.

“We are thrilled to have John David Partain join us for his ﬁrst full production at The Missing Piece,” Bucko said. “He as more than 25 years of experience in the arts throughout Central Florida.”

Local Brandon resident Fralia Colon recently joined the theater group as the stage manager for their upcoming production.

“I am honored to have been asked to work with three professional actors and a superstar director,” Colon said. “This is going to be a fast-paced production, which means I will have to depend on the amazing backstage and tech crew. It’s a team e ort for sure, and we’re excited for the community to see it.”

If you would like to learn more about The Missing Piece Theatre or if you’d like to attend their production of The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) [Revised] [Again], you can visit its website at www.themissingpiecetheatre.org. The play runs from Friday, March 21, through Sunday, March 30. The Gem Theater is located at 118 NW 1st Ave. in Mulberry.

Tampa Bay Sun FC will host a historic match vs. National Women’s Soccer League 2023 Champion Gotham FC in March.

CRISIS CENTER OF TAMPA BAY AND SUCCESS 4 KIDS & FAMILIES COMPLETE MERGER

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On January 6, the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay and Success 4 Kids & Families (S4KF) completed the merger of their operations. Programs run by S4KF are now being run by the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay as a core service area.

with S4KF.

Success 4 Kids & Families programs help children and families throughout Tampa Bay. The S4KF team provides family-focused behavioral health and psycho-educational services to assist both individuals and their families. Its services include case management and community-based therapy services for school-age children and teens and specialized services for adolescents and young adults. Through innovative services, S4KF empowers individuals and families to build strong, healthy communities.

The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay has served the Tampa Bay area for over 50 years. The nonproﬁ t organization’s mission is to ensure that no one in our community has to face crisis alone. The organization currently operates a telephone contact center that answers six crisis and community information lines, provides trauma counseling at three locations and through teletherapy, serves as Hillsborough County’s certiﬁ ed rape crisis center and operates TransCare Medical Transportation.

Success 4 Kids & Families was founded in 2005. One of its founders and its ﬁ rst executive director was Clara Reynolds, who later joined the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay as president and CEO, a position she has held since 2015. At the beginning of 2024, the leadership team at S4KF started to explore the possibility of merging their services into another nonproﬁ t organization to ensure the long-term growth of its programs. After numerous conversations and a thorough due diligence process, the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay’s board of directors unanimously voted to merge

“We are excited to welcome the Success 4 Kids & Families team to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. This strategic move provides a tremendous beneﬁ t to our community. People who were previously receiving help from S4KF can expect the same services and quality they have experienced,” stated Reynolds.

As of January 1, S4KF ceased operations as a separate nonproﬁ t organization and S4KF sta became Crisis Center of Tampa Bay employees. S4KF’s programs team continues to provide the same services as part of the Crisis Center.

The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay is located at 14905 Crisis Center Plaza in Tampa. To learn more about Success 4 Kids & Families programs and the center’s other programs, visit the website at www.crisiscenter.com.

INCREASE OF MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES WITH ADOLESCENTS

BLOOMINGDALE PSYCHIATRIC ASSOCIATES

Due to the rise of mental health issues with adolescents, Dr Charles Devine and Natalie Beemer, ARNP of Bloomingdale Psychiatric Associates are pleased to announce that they are now accepting adolescents 15 years and older.

Dr Charles Devine, with his 25 years experience and Natalie Beemer who specializes in Psychiatry have become well known in our area and are considered top in their field.

TMS OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

TMS of Central Florida provides NeuroStar TMS therapy. TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is a safe, effective, FDA cleared treatment for individuals 15 years and older who suffer from major depression and adults with OCD. It is for individuals that have tried and failed medication due to the side effects or did not receive positive results. TMS is not a drug or “shock” therapy. TMS therapy is an inoffice treatment that is 18 minutes and 45 seconds long. Treatments are done 5 days a week for 7 weeks. It requires no down time! You can resume all normal activities immediately such as returning to school or work.

Visit our websites Tmscentralflorida.com for more information and Neurostar.com for full safety and for prescribing information.

Both facilities are conveniently located at 336 East Bloomingdale Avenue in Brandon. Insurance ranges for each facility so please contact us at the following numbers.

Bloomingdale Psychiatric Associates 813-689-2466

TMS of Central Florida 813-423-7037

“We love because He first loved us.”

Baptist Church of Gibsonton

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VALRICO/BRANDON

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN

(never known to fail)

O Most beautiful flowers of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me here you are my mother. O Holy Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succeed me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. O Mary conceived without sin pray for us who have recourse to thee (three times). Holy Mary I place this cause in your hands (three times).

Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish and it will be granted to you.

T.O.C.M.B.

RCMA is proud to announce a major milestone in its capital campaign for the Mulberry Community Academy (MCA). Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of donors across Florida, RCMA successfully raised $1.5 million, unlocking a dollar-for-dollar match from an anonymous family foundation, resulting in a total of $3 million raised for this transformative project.

address the unique needs of low-income rural poor communities. RCMA’s Commitment to Transformative Education

This critical funding propels RCMA closer to its vision of building a 22,000-square-foot, environmentally sustainable, dual-language community academy serving grades K-8. Located in Mulberry, Florida, MCA is designed to provide high-quality education to up to 300 children, focusing on low-income rural poor families.

“This milestone is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our supporters and the power of community,” said Isabel Garcia, executive director of RCMA. “Every dollar raised is an investment in the future of our children and a step toward breaking the cycle of poverty for families in rural Florida. The anonymous family foundation’s matching gift ampliﬁes this impact, enabling us to bring this dream closer to reality.”

A Transformative Project for Rural Florida

The Mulberry Community Academy o cially opened in August 2024 with temporary classrooms that currently accommodate kindergarten through second grade. The main campus, scheduled for completion between 2026 and 2028, will provide students with a state-of-the-art educational environment and a dual-language curriculum that celebrates the bilingual, bicultural heritage of RCMA families.

The academy will serve families from western Polk County, including Mulberry and southern Lakeland. By expanding capacity, MCA will meet the growing demand for RCMA’s holistic approach to education, blending rigorous academics with essential wraparound services that

Based in Immokalee, RCMA is Florida’s largest nonproﬁt provider of quality, early childhood education and a nationally recognized charter school operator. For nearly 60 years, RCMA has been dedicated to empowering children and families in rural areas by providing bilingual, bicultural education that supports academic success and social mobility. With this new academy, RCMA furthers its mission of creating brighter futures for Florida’s most vulnerable communities.

“This is not just a building — it’s a promise to our families,” added Garcia. “A promise that every child deserves a quality education, and we are dedicated to providing that experience.”

Join the Mission

RCMA invites individuals, corporations and foundations to join in this transformative project. Opportunities to contribute to the Mulberry Community Academy campaign remain available, as the organization continues working toward its goal of completing the academy and its campus enhancements.

For additional information, please contact Joseph Goldbach at joseph.goldbach@rcma.org or 239-658-3560, ext. 1059.

ABOUT RCMA

RCMA is Florida’s largest nonproﬁt provider of quality, early childhood education and a nationally recognized charter school operator. RCMA serves people in rural areas living in poverty, primarily agricultural working families. RCMA has 54 child development centers and three charter schools in 20 Florida counties that provide a bilingual, bicultural curriculum to nearly 4,700 children annually. Established in 1965 and headquartered in Immokalee, RCMA has a sta of 1,400 employees and more than 50,000 alumni. Visit https://rcma.org/.

Notice For Action Of Dissolution Of Marriage Walter Tyler

You are notified that an action of dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and you have until March 7, 2025 to respond. Send all responses to:

Hillsborough County Courthouse 300 E. Twiggs Street, Tampa, FL 33602

DRUMMING DEEPENS ENGAGEMENT THROUGH MUSIC AT YATES ELEMENTARY

At a performance last semester at Brandon High School, Yates Elementary School music teacher Katie Thomas spoke proudly of her student drummers and the value she sees in the World Music Drumming initiative.

By Linda Chion

LIFELONG LEARNING PROGRAM LAUNCHES CLASSES AT USF

ST. PETERSBURG

By Sarah Sell, University Communications and Marketing

“They get so much confidence” playing the drums, Thomas said of her students. “They’re not as vulnerable as they would be if they were singing. You can hide more behind the drum, but you’re also expressing yourself and gaining confidence.”

Thomas said she heard about the World Music Drumming cross-cultural curriculum as an intern, before her first year of teaching in the 2019-20 school year. She said she learned more about the program with a grant to study the program in Naples.

The program now is part of Thomas’ busy teaching schedule at her Title I school, which includes five before and after-school ensembles. The other ensembles are for chorus, hand chimes, modern band and an ‘Instruments of Change Band’ that teaches fifth graders trumpet and clarinet.

In a post she wrote for the Florida Elementary Music Educators Association in September 2024, Thomas said she takes seriously her job to build “lifelong music learners” and her principal’s encouragement “to make positive phone calls home for students, to begin to build relationships with our families.”

Thomas said she focused not just on the

“obvious calls” for “students who get the solos or who are in the ensembles,” but also for the students “who aren’t front and center” but are somewhere in the middle. As a result, students “who had never been told they were good at something or felt seen before,” Thomas said, “now feel like they belong in our music class family.”

Thomas, with Yates Principal Lisa Varnum, was at the school district’s Family and Community Education (FACE) Academy at Brandon High in November 2024. The inaugural event for the districtwide initiative included workshops and community exhibitors, and it preceded the ensemble’s planned performance at the Winter Wonderland event at Sadie Park in December.

Thomas, who is a FACE ambassador at Yates, said drumming makes music accessible to all, and that, as with other music groups, requires “students to work together to sound like one.”

At Yates, “we’re all one big music family,” Thomas said. “From the moment you greet [the students] at the door, they just know that they’re at home when they’re in the music room.”

Yates Elementary is at 301 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon. Call 813-744-8179. Visit World Music Drumming www.worldmusicdrumming.com for more on the multifaceted music experience aligned with West African, Caribbean and Latin drumming and singing traditions.

A popular adult learning program that offers classes, workshops and lectures targeting individuals ages 50 and older is expanding to University of South Florida (USF) St. Petersburg.

This semester, lifelong learners can take courses covering history, art, marketing, biology and an introduction to craft brewing.

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) is a member-based learning community that provides high-quality, low-cost learning opportunities for seniors in their communities. The program has been highly successful on the Tampa campus for years. It will launch classes on the St. Petersburg campus in March.

“I think the OLLI programming will be a perfect fit for us given our downtown location and vibrant community. Many of the people in the downtown area near campus are retired, have free time and are intellectually curious, capable and actively living a full life,” said Caryn Nesmith, director of community relations at USF St. Petersburg.

Classes are being taught by several USF faculty and staff experts, including:

• Deby Cassill, associate professor in the Department of Integrative Biology: ‘Ants Reveal That Cooperation, Not Competition, is What Makes Us Human.’

• Gary Mormino, historian and professor emeritus in Florida Studies: ‘Ten Foods That Define Florida’ and ‘Florida and World War II.’

• Carrie O’Brion, assistant regional vice chancellor for marketing, communications and strategic initiatives: ‘Building Your Personal Brand With Social Media.’

• Joe Askren, director of the USF Brewing Arts Program: ‘Intro to Craft Brewing.’

USF has offered adult learning programs on the Tampa campus for more than 30 years. It was officially named the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute in February 2005 following a generous donation from The Bernard Osher Foundation.

The Bernard Osher Foundation currently supports a network of 125 lifelong learning programs at colleges and universities nationwide, with eight located in Florida. Each program offers intellectually stimulating, noncredit learning opportunities specifically designed for adults ages 50 and older. There are nearly 1,400 members through the USF Tampa campus.

“It’s been a great program for us. Out of the 125 affiliates, we’re probably one of the top 15 in membership, and I’m proud of that,” said Veronica Maxwell, director of OLLI at USF Tampa.

An annual membership to OLLI costs $50, and the average cost of an individual class is around $25. For the spring 2025 semester, courses on the St. Petersburg campus are free if you join OLLI as a member.

Registration for classes is now open. For class registration, visit www.usf.edu/olli.

Photo courtesy of Linda Chion.

Yates Elementary School drummers with music teacher

Katie Thomas (left) and Principal Lisa Varnum at Brandon High School in November 2024.

A group of OLLI members from University of South Florida Tampa visited a butterfly garden as part of a shared interest group.

PIECEMAKERS QUILT GUILD CELEBRATES OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS AT FLORIDA STATE FAIR

BY EDGE POOLS

Sta Report

The Valrico/Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce (VFCC) is excited to host its fourth annual VFCC Kickball Tournament, sponsored by Edge Pools, on Saturday, April 5, at YMCA Camp Cristina in Riverview. The event will run from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. and promises a day of fun for participants and spectators alike.

Each year, the chamber designates a ‘Charity of Choice’ to beneﬁt from the tournament’s proceeds. The 2024 event raised funds for Raining Cats and Dogs Shelter and Sanctuary, and this year the goal is to surpass that total.

e fourth annual VFCC Kickball Tournament will be held Saturday, April 5, at YMCA Camp Cristina.

The 2025 Charity of Choice is Hope for Her, a local nonproﬁt that o ers women in crisis and trauma a safe space to rebuild their lives with strength, support and resources.

“We’re excited for another incredible tournament this year,” said Mike Neill, mortgage professional and kickball chair. “All proceeds will go directly to Hope for

Her, so come out, have fun and support this amazing local cause.”

Organizers are still seeking base sponsors, teams, players and volunteers to ensure the tournament’s success. This family-friendly event is open to participants ages 14 and older.

The Valrico/Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce plays a vital role in supporting local businesses and nonproﬁts through networking, business education and community involvement.

With over 350 members, the chamber fosters meaningful relationships that help businesses grow while promoting a ‘know, like and trust’ approach to networking.

For more information on registration or sponsorship opportunities, contact Michelle Leahy at michelle.leahy@tampaymca.org or Mike Neill at kickball@ valricoﬁ shhawk.org. YMCA Camp Cristina is located at 9840 Balm Riverview Rd. in Riverview.

Piecemakers Quilt Guild of Brandon, a vibrant community of quilting enthusiasts, is proud to announce its recent successes at the Florida State Fair. Members of the guild have earned numerous ribbons in various quilting categories, showcasing their exceptional talent, creativity and dedication to the craft.

The Florida State Fair, renowned for its diverse and competitive quilting categories, provided a platform for quilters from across the state to present their intricate works of art. The members of Piecemakers Quilt Guild of Brandon rose to the occasion, bringing home an impressive array of awards that celebrate their skill and passion for quilting.

“We are thrilled and honored to have received such recognition at the Florida State Fair,” said Carolyn Payne, president of Piecemakers Quilt Guild of Brandon. “Our members put countless hours of hard work and creativity into their quilts, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see their e orts acknowledged in this way.”

The guild’s award-winning quilts included a variety of styles, techniques and themes, reﬂecting the diverse interests and expertise of its members. Overall, guild members received 23 ribbons. Some of the standout pieces include:

• “Take It Away and Give It Back,” by Nan Ryan — best in show, Hand Quilting.

• “Starry Night,” by Claudia Ingram —

best in show, Pieced Duet Quilt.

• “Seminole Patchwork,” by Linda Goodwin — ﬁrst place, Quilted Household Item.

• “Singing in the Cherry Blossoms,” by Paula Paradis — ﬁrst place, Original Design Quilt.

• “What Once Was Old is Now New,” by Linda Hitchens — ﬁrst place, Machine Quilted.

Founded in 1989, Piecemakers Quilt Guild has been a cornerstone of the Brandon and surrounding communities, fostering a love of quilting and providing a supportive environment for quilters of all levels. The guild regularly hosts monthly meetings, bee groups, retreats and workshops and supports community projects, encouraging members to continuously learn and grow in their craft. Two upcoming events are its yard sale on Saturday, May 10, in the New Hope Church gym, located at 213 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon, and its Quilt Show 2025: Treasure Trove of Quilts on Friday, October 10, and Saturday, October 11, at The Regent, located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview.

As the guild celebrates these recent achievements, it extends an open invitation to the community to join their upcoming meetings and events. For more information about Piecemakers Quilt Guild, please visit https://brandonquiltguild.com/ or email info@brandonpiecemakers.org.

ENTREPRENEUR LEANNE CRABTREE RELEASES HER SECOND NOVEL

LeAnne Crabtree is known in the Brandon community as ‘The Cookie Lady’ because she is the owner of LeAnne’s Old Fashion Cookies.

Crabtree has a servant’s heart for the community, as she is always willing to help when asked, but when God laid it upon her heart to share her personal story with the community, Crabtree became an author.

Local Businesswoman and mentor LeAnne Crabtree is hosting a book launch for her new novel, e Encourager, on ursday, March 6, at e Plant City History & Photo Archives from 6-8 p.m. If you would like to attend Crabtree’s free event, register at https://leannecrabtree.com/.

By Libby Hopkins

Crabtree’s new book is called The Encourager, and she is hosting a book launch on Thursday, March 6, at The Plant City History & Photo Archives from 6-8 p.m.

2025 COUNTY NEIGHBORHOOD EXPO IS AN IN-PERSON EVENT

By Brad Stager

Her ﬁrst book, God Has a Sweet Tooth, was met with rave reviews, and it laid the path for Crabtree to become a mentor and life coach.

“I never expected all of this to happen and it has been an amazing journey,” Crabtree said. “God helped me every step up the way to write my ﬁrst book and to becoming a mentor.”

Crabtree was yet again motivated by God to continue her journey as an author.

“God, my father and my husband, the three most important men in my life, said I needed to write my second book,” Crabtree said. “The last few years have been rough for a lot of people. Encouragement right now is one of the most needed things in our society.”

“In the book, I lay out and tell stories of encouragers in my life along the way who have lifted me up, who encouraged me, inspired me, through the good times and bad time,” Crabtree said. “I also lay out some of the principles and some of the characteristics of how to be an encourager to others. Through this, you are going to gain inﬂuence, you’re going to lift people up and you’re going to make an impact.”

Crabtree hopes her new book will help those who read it.

“A lot of people are walking around hurt, worried, scared and nervous,” she said. “Encouragement is a big deal, but also we have the opportunity to be those encouragers for those in need.”

If you would like to attend Crabtree’s free book launch event on March 6, you can register for it through her website, https://leannecrabtree.com/. The Plant City History & Photo Archives is located at 106 S. Evers St. in Plant City.

Hillsborough County encompasses 1,266 square miles, with terrain as varied as the rocky shores of Old Tampa Bay in the north to the coastal prairie along its southern border, consisting of individual neighborhoods that are as distinct as each of the nearly 1.5 million residents living here. The county’s departments and agencies are responsible for functions that allow the community to thrive and, importantly, also make sure residents have access to public resources. One way that happens is the annual Neighborhood Expo, which this year is being held on Saturday, March 1, from 9 a.m.-12 Noon at Feeding Tampa Bay’s new facility, located at 3624 Causeway Blvd. in Tampa.

The annual event is a civic tradition that spans two decades and serves as a way for residents to get to know about the services available to them as well as an opportunity to interact with local o cials and administrators whose decisions a ect their lives.

“We’ve been doing this for twenty years,” said Stephanie Agliano, who directs the county’s engagement e orts with residents, adding that what’s old is new, or at least refreshed, with this year’s edition.

“This year, we brought back in-person, and we’re really excited about that,” said Agliano.

Recent expos have been held online, a change that was made because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Residents will have a chance to learn about the various services the county provides on their behalf, from code enforcement to public safety.

O cials said that representatives from the county’s departments and agencies will be in attendance and available to answer questions residents may have. According to Agliano, while there won’t be much opportunity to conduct o cial business with the county, the expo is a chance to get a little guidance on things like applying for construction permits or public services.

The expo is free to attend, and county o cials said they encourage attendees to register for the event to help them understand the interests and needs of residents and their particular neighborhoods.

The ﬁnal lineup of attractions was still being determined at press time, but past in-person expos have featured plenty of kid activities, voter registration and dynamic displays such as ﬁre trucks.

You can learn more about the 2025 Neighborhood Expo by visiting https://hcﬂ. gov/, and you can register by visiting the expo’s Eventbrite page at www.eventbrite. com/e/1203745237409.

e 2025 Neighborhood Expo will be held in person on Saturday, March 1, in Tampa from 9 a.m.-12 Noon.

3,000+ Homes Sold | 2,700+ 5 Star Reviews

WHOLE FOODS, NEW TRAFFIC SIGNAL SLATED FOR LITHIA CROSSING

Hillsborough County will welcome its newest Whole Foods store, as the grocer has secured a location in the Lithia Crossing plaza on Lithia Pinecrest Road, just south of Bloomingdale Avenue in Valrico.

The new supermarket will be renovating the locations previously occupied by The Fresh Market and Stein Mart to create a 38,000-squarefoot Whole Foods as well as two additional units that will be available for lease upon completion. This location will be only the third Whole Foods store in all of Hillsborough County, with Pinellas and Sarasota counties each having two locations. Kite Realty, owner of Lithia Crossing, recently revised the plaza’s site plan to show the 38,000-square-foot anchor.

What makes Whole Foods unique is the company’s focus on providing products free of hydrogenated fats, artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives as well as banning over 500 ingredients in its food, beverages, supplements, body care, and household cleaning supplies. They are a USDA certified Organic grocer.

Amazon purchased Whole Foods Market in August 2017 for $13.7 billion. There are 522 Whole Foods Market stores in the

By Brian Bokor

U.S. as of January, with the Lithia location becoming Florida’s 36th Whole Foods. By way of comparison, Whole Foods is a relatively small operation, with Aldi U.S. locations numbering 2,464 locations and Publix numbering 1,439 as of the same date. Additionally, the same updated Lithia Crossing plaza site plans show a new tra c light installed on Lithia Pinecrest Road between Lithia Crossing plaza, anchored by Whole Foods, and the Shoppes of Lithia plaza, anchored by Publix. The signal, which has been in the works as far back as 2021, will allow a much safer access point to the grocers and tenants of either shopping center.

LITHIAPINECRESTROAD

VALRICO COMMUNITY PLAN READY TO PRESENT

By Marie Gilmore

This additional signal will be the fourth within a 1 1/2-mile stretch of road, so the timing of the lights will be paramount to their success. Additionally, with Lithia Pinecrest Road planned for a widening from two lanes to four from Lumsden Road to FishHawk Boulevard, it will be interesting to see if the additional lanes will be accounted for at this time or revisited when the expansion begins.

Please visit www.wholefoodsmarket. com and https://kiterealty.com/properties/lithia-crossing for more information.

County planners have been working with community members, advocates and homeowners association boards to create the Valrico Community Plan. In March 2023, the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners requested sta to initiate the process to create the plan.

VALRICO COMMUNITY PLAN OFFICE HOURS

A community plan is intended to be an extension and reﬁnement of the county’s comprehensive plan. The comprehensive plan is general in nature and provides guidance on issues county-wide. A community plan is more detailed in nature and intended to provide speciﬁc recommendations on issues raised by local stakeholders.

The Valrico Community Plan will be developed in a process that involves the community at each phase and discusses the special and unique characteristics of Valrico.

Scope of the study:

• Create a communitywide vision.

• Establish community goals.

• Develop strategies to further goals.

• Create a community concept map. Valrico by the numbers:

• In 2022, Valrico was home to about 50,000 people, 18,000 residences and 2,000 jobs.

• Thirty-one percent of the population of Valrico is between the ages of 45 and 64 years old.

This study will result in the creation of the Valrico Community Plan. The plan will be presented to the board of county commissioners for consideration and potentially re-

sult in amendments to the Hillsborough County Comprehensive Plan and/or Land Development Code. Any ﬁnal policy changes are at the discretion of the board of county commissioners.

“One of the main additions (under Goal 3), based on community input, are strategies designed for pedestrians, bicyclists and vehicles to move around in the Valrico community safely from point to point,” o ered senior planner Andrea Papandrew, AICP. Plan manager Jay Collins added, “The Valrico Community Plan will only be part of the Unincorporated Hillsborough County Comprehensive Plan. The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) did not direct sta to work on the Land Development Code. At the time of writing this, it is sta ’s opinion that the strategies within the proposed plan can e ectively be implemented under the current Land Development Code. If adopted by the BOCC, the Valrico Community Plan will be the 23rd adopted Community Plan in Unincorporated Hillsborough County. Each community is unique and the plans allow for these di erences to be acknowledged and utilized in planning.”

Planners and representatives were available for discussions on February 6, at the Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, located at 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. To view more detailed maps and learn more about the history of the project, visit https://planhillsborough.org/planvalrico/.

HABITAT HILLSBOROUGH RECEIVES $147,000 DONATION TOWARD AFFORDABLE HOUSING

With rising construction costs impacting the housing industry, Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County recently received a generous donation toward its mission of helping local residents achieve their homeownership dreams. Global architecture and design firm Gensler’s Tampa office presented a check for $147,500 to the nonprofit that will go toward completing the Habitat home for local resident Hector Ortero-Reyes and his family.

new home later this year, said he’s thankful to the volunteers whose efforts are helping him achieve greater stability and a brighter financial future.

“It is amazing seeing people being generous with their time and money, and not expecting anything in return,” said Otero-Reyes, who lives with his wife and two young children. “Owning a home is an investment in our future. I’m happy that my kids will have their own rooms and a safe place to play outdoors.”

VOODOO VALRICO AWARDS DURANT HIGH ART STUDENTS

Staff Report On January 14, Voodoo Brewing Co. in Valrico hosted a private, invitation-only event for Durant High School’s art department students, their families and faculty for a scholarship ceremony where $2,000 in scholarships were awarded by owner Chris Ciulla on behalf of Voodoo Brewing Co.

“As we navigate a changing industry, our commitment to providing affordable housing has not wavered. We’re grateful for community partners, like Gensler Tampa, who share in our commitment and donate their time, talent and treasure toward making homeownership a reality for so many,” said Tina Forcier, CEO at Habitat Hillsborough.

Following the presentation, Gensler Tampa staff volunteered to help paint and install doors and trim on the three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath townhome and other Habitat townhomes adjacent to it. Candidates qualified to purchase affordable homes through Habitat Hillsborough’s homeownership program, which includes contributing at least 300 hours in ‘sweat equity’ toward the builds alongside Habitat volunteers. Otero-Reyes, who will receive keys to his

Gensler Tampa has been a longtime supporter of Habitat Hillsborough and recognizes the organization’s impact on the community beyond building homes.

“We recognize that Habitat does more than build homes; it builds strong communities that foster a sense of belonging,” said Sarah Joubert, principal and co-managing director of Gensler’s Tampa office. “We hope that this donation can support the individuals and families in need of affordable housing and offer hope and stability for the next generation of homeowners. We’re excited and privileged to sponsor such a meaningful project where we can see our collaboration make a positive, indelible impact.”

Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County is located at 8247 N. Florida Ave. in Tampa. For more information, visit www.habitathillsborough.org.

Last spring, 10 art students were presented blank doors as their canvases with the assignment of expressing their visions of opportunities beyond the door through their artwork along with a written narrative of what the artwork meant to them. The event was held by Voodoo Brewing Co. not only to celebrate everyone involved, but also to raise funds for Durant’s art department, thanks to a 50/50 raffle held during the party. The doors are on display throughout the restaurant.

Durant High artist Aiden Clarke took home first place at the Voodoo Brewing door

Durant High School Principal Gary Graham; his assistant, Sarah Boyer; and art department teachers Jaclyn and Aaron Bowers and other staff were on hand to celebrate the award ceremony. Fun fact, the murals both inside and outside of Voodoo were designed and painted by Jaclyn and Aaron.

The scholarships — $1,500 for first place, $500 for second place and a gift certificate for a dinner for four given to the third-place winner — were awarded to the top three based on four criteria.

By Brian Bokor

The criteria for each student’s door centered on whether the door was true to the Voodoo theme, the quality of the student’s personal statement, the quality of the work and how well the door and personal statement aligned with Voodoo’s core values.

Although they were all 10s in Ciulla’s eyes, three had to be chosen as winners. Congrats to the following:

• First place — Aiden Clarke, (untitled).

• Second place — Jackson Smith, “Remember When.” • Third place — Emerald Gottfredsen, “Opportunities, Self-portrait.”

“Our partnership with Durant is an investment in the future of our community. By supporting students during their formative years, we aim to enrich their experiences and create lasting connections to our town,” added Ciulla.

Each door will be on display at Voodoo Brewing Co. for a year and available to purchase at the one-year anniversary celebration next fall, with all proceeds going back to the Durant art department. The contest will be repeated again next year with a new group of talented Durant High artists displaying their skills and keeping the collaboration going between community and business.

Voodoo Brewing Co. in Valrico is located at 3432 S.R. 60. For more information, visit https://valrico.voodoobrewery.com/.

decorating contest.

DISNEY ON ICE FROZEN & ENCANTO SHOW COMING TO AMALIE IN MARCH

For the first time, Disney On Ice invites families to step inside the magical adventures of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Frozen, the No. 1 animated feature of all time, and Disney Animation’s Encanto, the 2022 Academy Award, BAFTA and Golden Globe Award winner for Best Animated Feature, as they come to life like never before. This adventure on ice transports fans into two of the most popular Disney films as audiences can sing along to their favorite songs while embracing world-class ice skating, aerial acrobatics and more when the show comes to Tampa playing at AMALIE Arena.

Audiences will see Anna, Elsa, Mirabel and the Madrigal family live, as well as fan favorites Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy and many more. Narrating the captivating story of Frozen is Olaf, the lovable snowman who likes warm hugs and all things summer. Astounding ice-skating transports families to Arendelle to be a part of Anna’s adventure to find Elsa, whose icy powers unleashed an eternal winter. Kristoff and Sven take fans along as they encounter wintry conditions in a race to bring back summer.

After a very Frozen adventure, audiences will journey to a vibrant town in the mountains of Colombia where they will meet the Madrigals, an extraordinary family who live in a magical casita in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. Mirabel tells the tale of her amazing family and her journey to save the casita, her enchanted family home, alongside her sisters: Isabela, whose perfection radiates with her ability

Report

to make plants grow and flowers bloom with every step, and Luisa, with the gift of super strength that she uses to help her village move buildings and reroute rivers.

In the end, audiences will learn that everyone has their own gifts, magical or not, and being true to yourself and loving those around you is what makes you special. YOU are the magic!

‘Family Fun with Elsa and Mirabel’ Character Experience

Glide and dance your way into the worlds of Frozen and Encanto with music and dancing alongside Elsa and Mirabel, celebrating the amazing gifts that make each of us unique. Enhance your Disney On Ice show ticket with a preshow Character Experience that includes games, storytelling, crafting and interactive time with Elsa and Mirabel. Bring your personal device for photo opportunities.

Note: Each guest (ages 2 and up) must have both a Character Experience ticket and a Disney On Ice show ticket to attend; children must be accompanied by an adult. The Disney On Ice performances will be on Friday, March 21, at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Saturday, March 22 at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, March 23, at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com or in person at the venue box office.

AMALIE Arena is located at 401 Channelside Dr. in Tampa. For more information, visit www.disneyonice.com/frozen-and-encanto/tampa-fl-amalie-arena.

PREMIER PRO WASH & SEAL PAVES THE WAY TO PROFESSIONALLY CLEANED PROPERTIES

Premier Pro Wash & Seal LLC is a veteran and woman-owned business specializing in paver sealing, pressure washing and exterior maintenance for residential and commercial properties.

This past January marked the company’s ninth anniversary of serving Tampa Bay and the surrounding areas.

A Business Built on Service and Experience

“We served 20 years in the military before retiring in 2016,” said Jeremy Forrest, co-owner of Premier Pro Wash & Seal alongside his wife, Tiffany Forrest. “After retiring, we decided to go into business for ourselves, and that’s when we launched Premier Pro Wash & Seal.”

With nearly a decade in business, Premier Pro has built a reputation for excellence, offering a wide range of exterior cleaning services, including:

• Paver, concrete and travertine sealing.

• House washing.

• Pool deck, screen and fence cleaning.

• Rust stain removal.

• Soft washing for delicate surfaces.

For areas that require a gentler touch, Premier Pro uses a soft wash method — a lower-pressure spray combined with a chemical mixture designed to kill mold, mildew and spores while preserving surfaces.

“We’ve found that certain exterior surfaces can’t handle heavy pressure,” said Tiffany. “So instead, we use soft washing, which applies a lighter spray with a chemical solution that kills mold and spores at

By Taylor Wells

the root. This method not only cleans the surface but also provides a longer-lasting clean.” Award-winning Service and Customer Commitment

Premier Pro Wash & Seal is dedicated to providing outstanding customer service — from answering calls promptly to maintaining communication throughout the process. Its commitment to excellence has earned it numerous recognitions, including:

• Finalist in Tampa Bay Times’ People’s Choice Best of the Best 2024 for Paver Sealing Services.

• Nominated for Creative Loafing Tampa Bay’s Best of the Bay in the Best Residential and Best Commercial Cleaning Company categories.

“Our mission is to provide the absolute best service possible,” said Jeremy. “That means being on time, reliable and responsive. Our customers will never have to worry about whether they can reach us — we answer the phone, and if there’s ever an issue, we’re here to fix it.”

Premier Pro Wash & Seal is located at 7709 Nottinghill Sky Dr. in Apollo Beach. For more information, visit https://premierprowashandseal.com/ or call 813335-2869. Be sure to also follow its social media pages: Facebook at www. facebook.com/premierprowashandseal, Instagram @premierprowashandseal, X (formerly Twitter) @premierprowash and YouTube at www.youtube.com/c/ premierprowashseal.

Jeremy and Tiffany Forrest, husband-and-wife co-owners of Premier Pro Wash & Seal.

FAOPA STUDENTS BRING HOME

NATIONAL AWARDS AT 2025

JUNIOR THEATER FESTIVAL

Students representing Backstage Theater, Center Stage Youth Theatre, the Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA) and the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Academy received awards and recognition at the 2025 Junior Theater Festival Atlanta (JTF Atlanta). The monumental weekend dedicated to rewarding and celebrating excellent student-driven musical theater programs happened from January 17-19 at the Cobb Convention Centre in Atlanta, Georgia.

ATLANTA

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At the festival, each group performed 15 minutes of a Broadway Junior musical for adjudicators.

The Florida Academy of Performing Arts received the Excellence in Acting Award.

FAOPA’s Anna Beth James and Kat Baudoin were named Junior Theater Festival All-Stars, a select group of outstanding performers.

FAOPA presented Disney’s Aladdin JR. to Kelby McIntyre-Martinez, associate dean for arts education and community engagement of the University of Utah; and Bob Lenzi, Broadway actor (Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, Tuck Everlasting).

McIntyre-Martinez said, “Wonderful ensemble work, great storytelling!”

Lenzi added, “This program ﬁnds a way to feature many of its talented individuals, while also being able to step back into an ensemble and work together.”

The Florida Academy of Performing Arts is a nonproﬁt organization established in 2010 with the goal of supporting and developing performing arts throughout the com-

munity. FAOPA o ers numerous programs at di erent levels in order to encourage personal growth and to work collectively to produce productions that allow its students the opportunity to reach a new level of competence, self-esteem and conﬁdence. One of the groups operating at FAOPA is the competition team. The competition team was established in fall 2021, and its past pieces were from Junie B. Jones Jr., Children of Eden Jr. and Once on This Island Jr.

FAOPA has embarked on the journey of a second competition team, who has the exciting opportunity to attend JTF this year. They will be presenting Seussical Jr. The growth in competition opportunities, participation and experience has exceeded its expectations.

Student Morgan Sheri (2024 and 2022 JTF Atlanta) won a Sheridan Giles Technical Theater Award. Noah Ochalek and Morgan Sheri (2023 JTF Atlanta) were added to the Technical Theatre All-Stars, a select group of students who worked side-by-side with individuals to help run events.

Students Mary Pope and Nicole Drake (2024 JTF Atlanta) and Timothy Addie (2022 and 2023 JTF Atlanta) made it to the callback for special projects or future video shoots for ‘how-to’ choreography videos. He was ultimately cast and traveled to New York City to ﬁlm the videos (2022).

FAOPA is located in Brandon at Music Showcase 402 Oakﬁeld Dr Brandon, FL 33511. https://faopa.org/

We believe that the choices you make to celebrate the life of your loved one should be as special as the person they represent. That’s why you’ll always find our staff ready to go the extra mile to meet your special needs and requests.

Mark your calendars for an epic weekend of food, fun, and live entertainment at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds on Friday and Saturday, March 14 and 15. The Back Porch Jam promises two days of mouthwatering barbecue, live local bands and exciting activities for the whole family.

Kick o your weekend with the Friday Night BBQ, from 5-10 p.m., as grill masters ﬁre up their smokers and begin preparing some seriously tasty eats. Groove to live tunes while enjoying your favorite barbecue bites and cold beverages.

Then, come back on Saturday, March 15, for the BBQ Showdown. Gates open at 9 a.m. for a full day of ﬁerce competition between amateur and professional barbecue teams. Watch them battle it out for the coveted title of King of BBQ, judged by the renowned Kansas City Barbeque Society. The best part? You’ll get to sample their award-winning creations throughout the day, until 5 p.m. Competition categories include: Chicken, Ribs, Pork & Brisket.

Competitors wil be competing for over $7,000 in cash prizes in two divisions including the Master Series – For seasoned BBQ pros and the Backyard Series – Perfect for passionate BBQ enthusiasts.

Plus, explore a craft fair ﬁlled with unique

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treasures, bring the kids to the kid zone for nonstop fun and enjoy refreshing drinks while soaking in the tunes from talented local bands.

With a $10-per-carload admission (up to eight people), this is the ultimate weekend for food lovers, music fans and families looking for a good time.

Scheduled music entertainment including Friday 6 pm. The Fulcos, and Damon Fowler at 8 p.m. On Saturday the music kicks o at 11 a.m. with Ridge Country followed by Jezabelle at 1 p.m. and wrapping up at 3 p.m. with Crossﬁre Creek.

“We’re excited to showcase some incredible teams & talent who will be bringing the best of country, bluegrass, and folk music to our fair stage,” said event organizers via social media.

The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds are located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover. Tickets are available at the gate or in advance. For more information, visit www. hillsboroughcountyfair.com/p/sub-pages/ back-porch-jam.

Come hungry, bring your crew, and get ready for a weekend of barbecue, bands and beer you won’t forget.

Don’t miss the Back Pork Jam at the Hillsborough County Fairground on March 14 and 15.

FLO RIDA AND GRAND FUNK RAILROAD SIZZLE AT BUSCH GARDENS FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

Get ready to tantalize the taste buds and groove to the beat!

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has announced new details about the 2025 Food & Wine Festival and Concert Series, including the debut of new culinary cabins, exciting headlining artists and — new this year — concerts on Fridays.

Taking place Fridays through Sundays from Friday, March 7, through Sunday, May 18, the festival is included with regular park admission. New this year, headlining concerts will be held every Saturday, with additional performances on select Fridays and Sundays. Guests can also enjoy immersive photo opportunities, roaming atmosphere performers and additional activities on nonconcert event dates.

This year’s festival will serve up all-new culinary creations influenced by the vibrant spices and bold flavors of the Caribbean and India, as well as feature returning fan-favorites spanning the cuisines of South America and Europe. With a diverse selection of dishes to pair with wines, craft brews and cocktails, every bite offers a delicious new adventure for food lovers to explore. The best way to savor the festival is with a festival sampler lanyard, allowing guests to enjoy multiple tastes throughout their visit.

The can’t-miss Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival and Concert Series features

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an exciting lineup of musical acts spanning a variety of genres, ensuring there’s something for every taste. From high-energy performances to fan-favorite artists, the festival brings an unforgettable concert experience to the stage. This year’s musical performances lineup includes:

• Flo Rida — Saturday, March 15.

• Luis Fonsi — Saturday, March 22.

• Mitchell Tenpenny — Sunday, April 27.

• Grand Funk Railroad — Saturday, May 10.

Guests can stay tuned to our website and social media channels for the latest updates, as even more artists will be announced soon — there’s always something new to look forward to. Best of all, concerts are free with park admission, making it easier than ever to enjoy incredible live music while savoring the festival’s delicious offerings.

With chef-curated and mixologist masterpieces, live concerts, plus thrills like Phoenix Rising and the all-new Wild Oasis opening this spring, there’s never been a better time to become a pass member.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the ultimate family adventure, offering 300 acres of fascinating attractions based on exotic explorations around the world. For more, visit https://buschgardenstampa.com/.

49-YEAR TRADITION: BRANDON ROTARY’S WILD GAME NIGHT OFFERS A NIGHT OF FUN AND FELLOWSHIP FOR LOCAL CHARITIES

Established in 1961, the Rotary Club of Brandon is a part of the foremost organization for businesspeople and professionals committed to community and international service. Rotary’s motto is ‘Service above self,’ and this motto is why the club has been hosting its Wild Game Night for 49 years.

“We do this event each year to help our local charities,” said Patrick Skidmore of the Rotary Club of Brandon. “It’s also great night of delicious food and quality time our fellow Rotarians.”

Each year, the guys-only fundraiser attracts outdoorsmen from throughout Hillsborough County eager to sample a variety of expertly prepared wild game fare, including the club’s famous venison chili, quail and wild boar dishes and swamp cabbage.

“We have about 600 guests in attendance every year, so that is why the event is held at Hillsborough County Fairgrounds,” Skidmore said. “We have all kinds of raffle prizes, gun raffles, and this year we are adding live music and a cornhole tournament to Wild Game Night.

By Libby Hopkins

The whole event is sponsored by Rivard Buick GMC. We are really hoping to take the event up a notch this year.”

The local charities that benefit from Wild Game Night are High 5 Inc., ECHO, the Angel Foundation FL, the Brandon Rotary Club Scholarship Fund, Rotary’s Camp Florida and Hope for Her.

The club is very meticulous about the vetting process for the local charities that benefit from Wild Game Night.

“Our hopes for this year’s Wild Game Night are to raise money for these awesome local charities so they can continue to make a difference and impact in our community,” Skidmore said. “Last year, we raised $111,538 for these local charities, and we were thrilled we raised so much from the event. This year, our goal is to raise $200K, and we are confident that we can do this with Wild Game Night.” Wild Game Night was held on February 21, at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover. Tickets were $100 and purchased through the Rotary Club of Brandon’s website, www.brandonrotary.org.

Ridge Ranch

The 49th Annual Wild Game Night was held on February 21, from 6-10 p.m. at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover.

Lanyards for food and wine samplings are now available for the 2025 Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival.

RAYMOND JAMES GASPARILLA FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS UNVEILS 2025 FESTIVAL IMAGE

Gasparil-

la Festival of the Arts (GFA) proudly announces “The Fight” by Ashli Harper as the o cial image for the 55th annual Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts. This powerful artwork will promote the event, which will bring over 250 artists and 15 emerging artists to Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, located at 1001 N. Blvd. in downtown Tampa, on Saturday and Sunday, March 1-2.

Harper, a Plant City resident, was an emerging artist at last year’s festival, making this year’s selection a full-circle moment.

“This piece is deeply personal,” Harper shared. “I created it during a time when I felt like I was in the final round of a fight — exhausted but determined to truly live. I hope others find strength in it, as we all face challenges that push us to discover resilience we didn’t know we had.”

By Doubletake Studios Inc.

Harper began her art journey during the pandemic as an outlet for stress. Her work resonated with audiences, leading her to apply to the GFA’s Emerging Artists Program, where she was one of 15 chosen to exhibit in 2024. Her debut collection sold out completely, setting the stage for this year’s honor.

“Being selected as the festival image feels like a powerful a rmation,” Harper said. “It fuels my passion and renews my purpose. I’m grateful and humbled to represent such an inspiring event.”

The Fight will be prominently featured in all promotional materials, ad campaigns, and merchandise for the 55th annual Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts. To learn more, visit https://gasparillaarts.com.

BOB HENRIQUEZ SWORN INTO OFFICE FOR FOURTH TERM AS HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PROPERTY APPRAISER

In front of dozens of supporters, family members and dignitaries, Bob Henriquez was sworn into his fourth consecutive term as Hillsborough County property appraiser on the morning of January 7 at the Frederick B. Karl County Center in downtown Tampa.

Henriquez, a ﬁ fth-generation resident of Tampa, took the oath of o ce from former Hillsborough County Public Defender Julianne Holt. Among those in attendance for the ceremony were Hillsborough County Commissioner Gwen Meyers and representatives from the o ces Hillsborough County Clerk of the County Victor Crist, Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer and Hillsborough County Public Defender Lisa McLean.

After taking the oath, Henriquez addressed the crowd and spoke of being humbled to earn the voters’ trust to serve as property appraiser for a fourth term and his continued desire to make his o ce e cient, modern and transparent for the public he serves.

“In many ways, I want to view this fourth term as my ﬁ rst in the o ce,” Henriquez said. “For all the steps we

have taken to improve and modernize the duties we perform, my sta and I never want rest on our laurels. We want to keep moving forward with the goal of making our o ce a model for other property appraisers around the nation — and the world.”

Prior to his election as property appraiser, Henriquez served eight years (1998-2006) as a representative in the state house. A graduate of Princeton University, Henriquez also worked as a county planner and administrator for the Florida Department of Children and Families, where he oversaw approximately 300 employees.

Henriquez is also well known locally as the former head football coach at Tampa Catholic High School, his prep alma mater, as well as an assistant at Je erson and Hillsborough high schools. As Tampa Catholic’s head coach, Henriquez led the Crusaders to 13 playo berths, seven district titles and two appearances in the state championships.

For more information, visit the Hillsborough County property appraiser’s website at www.hcpaﬂ .org.

A KITTEN PLACE OFFERS A SECOND CHANCE FOR OVER 2,500 CATS

Jeffrey wasn’t the usual addition to A Kitten Place — he was much older and sick. But Michelle Bass couldn’t just send him to a different shelter. Jeffrey, a grey cat, was one of the 2,500 cats Bass’ organization has saved.

Bass co-founded A Kitten Place with Alicia Pollock to save cats they found in the community. From vet visits to spaying or neutering to finding foster families, A Kitten Place gives cats a second chance through its fostering program and returning them to the wild.

The nonprofit, volunteer-based organization has been saving kittens, neonates and special needs cats for over five years.

“We’ve grown this really big, amazing team attracted a lot of talented rescuers and people that offer a lot of their different skills to make this organization really kind of blossom into something we never thought it could be,” Bass said. She said 40-45 volunteers actively foster their cats, including several regular fosterers. A Kitten Place covers all the costs, from vet bills to a litter box

By Lily Belcher

for the home.

Bass and Pollock founded the organization after nursing a cat back to health, splitting the costs to care for it and keeping it out of a normal rescue shelter.

Last year, the organization spent $200,000 saving local cats, all of which was raised through community donations and fundraisers.

In May, the nonprofit will host a golf fundraiser, and in the fall it will host its annual Black Cat 5K.

The organization keeps track of roughly 100-200 cats at a time and focuses its attention on kitten season, which Bass said is in the summer.

A Kitten Place also takes in pregnant cats and cares for the litter, something many rescue shelters won’t do.

And, Jeffrey has “rebounded” since being under the care of A Kitten Place, Bass said.

“This cat is receiving love, and he is happy and he’s purring, and he loves his foster,” Bass said. For more information on A Kitten Place or to see which cats are up for adoption, visit https://akittenplace.org/. To contact A Kitten Place, email the nonprofit organization at akittenplace@gmail.com.

QUEEN AND HER COURT CROWNED FOR 90TH FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

Gabriela Hagman was crowned queen of the 90th Florida Strawberry Festival during the annual pageant held on the festival grounds in January. Gabriela was selected from a competitive field of 26 contestants. Macey Faith Riley was named first maid, with court members Makinley Jensen, Olivia Paige Lawton and Abigail Lee Mullis rounding out the royal court.

“I feel so overwhelmed. I’m so honored to be given this opportunity,” said Gabriela. “I just feel so grateful that I have been given this moment, and it still doesn’t feel real, if I’m being completely transparent. I feel like I’m in someone else’s body right now, but I’m just so grateful, and I’m so ready.”

Gabriela is the daughter of Christopher and Jacqueline Hagman. She is a senior at Durant High. School and serves as a member of the orchestra, chamber orchestra, chorus, show choir and is the vice president of both the Choral Department and Durant Theatre Company, Troupe 5444. She is also a senior youth advisor at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church. Gabriela plans to pursue a career in multimedia journalism and become a news anchor.

The Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s Competition is organized by the Plant City Lions Club and includes five main components: a personal interview, onstage speaking, casual wear, evening wear and an impromptu question.

“We are so proud of this year’s pageant and want to thank the Plant City Lions Club for their unwavering dedication to making this event a success,” said Florida Strawberry Festival Chairman Danny Coton. “All the contestants demonstrated incredible effort and commitment, and I have no doubt the queen and her court will represent the festival and the community with great pride and enthusiasm.”

Throughout the year, the queen and her court will make over 80 appearances, representing the Florida Strawberry Festival and the Plant City community at various local and regional events.

Coton added, “Celebrating our 90th year is a huge milestone for the festival, and we’re looking forward to seeing the entire community come together.”

The 2025 Florida Strawberry Festival will take place from Thursday, February 27, to Sunday, March 9, in Plant City. Festival hours are 10 a.m.-10 p.m. daily, featuring a wide range of activities, entertainment and exhibits. Visitors can look forward to livestock shows, midway rides, food, games and headline performances by artists like Reba McEntire, Whiskey Myers, John Fogerty, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Nelly, The Beach Boys and much more.

Visit https://flstrawberryfestival.com/, and follow the festival on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok (#BerryFest25). Staff Report

Jeffrey, a gray cat, was sick when he was taken in by A Kitten Place.

Jeffrey, a gray cat, was nursed back to health and found a home with the help of the nonprofit organization A Kitten Place.

Queen of the 90th Florida Strawberry Festival Gabriela Hagman.

ISAIAH 117 HOUSE PROVIDES PHYSICAL AND EMOTIONAL SUPPORT TO CHILDREN IN NEED IN OUR COMMUNITY

By Libby Hopkins

Isaiah 117 House is a new, local nonproﬁt that has joined the Tampa Bay community.

When children are removed from their homes out of concern for their safety, they are usually brought to a child welfare services o ce to await placement. This wait can be a few hours to several days. These children often have nothing with them and are scared, lonely, hungry and in dirty clothing. Isaiah 117 House’s purpose is to help these children.

117 House is a new and local nonpro t that has joined the Tampa Bay community, providing foster children with a safe, loving and comfortable environment where they can wait until they are placed in a foster home.

sitting in such a sterile, cold environment while waiting to learn their fate. That is when she believed God put in her heart the idea of creating Isaiah 117 House. The nonproﬁt got its name from the Bible verse Isaiah 1:17, which says, “Defend the cause of the fatherless.”

Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com Scholarships, Food Trucks, Talent Show, Corvette Ra e & More...

Community Action Board Scholarships

“Isaiah 117 provides a comforting home where these children instead can be brought to wait,” said Kayla Bain, Isaiah 117 House’s location leader for Hillsborough County. “The home is a place that is safe with friendly and loving volunteers who provide clean clothes, smiles, toys and snuggly blankets. This space allows children to receive the comfort and care they need while child welfare sta can do the necessary paperwork and identify a good placement.”

Isaiah 117 House was originally started by Rhonda and Corey Paulson of Tennessee. The couple started the nonproﬁt after they went through training to become foster parents. During that class, the couple was informed that when children are removed from their homes, they often must go to the DCS o ce and wait for placement. As Rhonda looked around the cubicle-ﬁlled space, she couldn’t imagine a scared child

The couple opened their ﬁrst Isaiah 117 House in Tennessee in 2017. Since then, the Paulsons have been opening Isaiah 117 Houses all over the United States. They currently have homes in Sarasota, Orlando and now Tampa.

The mission of Isaiah 117 House is threefold process. The ﬁrst is to reduce trauma for children awaiting placement. Secondly, lighten the load for child welfare services. Thirdly, to ease the transition for foster families.

“We are new nonproﬁt to Hillsborough County and our latest Isaiah 117 House is being built just 15 minutes outside of the Brandon community,” Bain said. “We are looking to the Brandon community to help with donating items to help our children feel more at home during their time at an Isaiah 117 House as well as spread the word about our mission and what we do for children who are transitioning into foster care.”

If you would like to learn more about Isaiah 117 House or become involved with the organization, visit www.isaiah117house. com or contact Bain at 813-428-2966.

The Community Action Board of Hillsborough County represents the lower-income population of East Hillsborough County. It o ers two $2,500 and four $5,000 year scholarships for both technical colleges and four-year universities. Students can also reapply each year for funding. Applicants must be Hillsborough County residents, have a minimum 2.0 GPA and have a household income below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Applications can be found at www.hcﬂ.gov/education. The deadline for applications is Friday, March 14.

Bloomingdale’s Tastes And Treasures

e Tampa Elks Lodge #708 gifted the Liberty Manor for Veterans with $1,000 worth of gas gift certi cates, making it possible to provide veterans transportation to and from the veterans hospital and other events that they could not attend due to nancial restraints

drawing will take place on Sunday, March 9, at 5 p.m.

Impact’s Got Talent

Impact, a local charity promoting healthy lifestyles and relationships to teens, parents, teachers and other youth leaders through classroom education, is holding its Impact’s Got Talent event on Friday, April 11. The event will take place at Fellowship Baptist Church of Thonotosassa, located at 13515 U.S. 301 in Thonotosassa. Impact is looking for vocalists, actors, dancers (solos, duets and groups), musicians, etc., from grades K-12 to audition for the event. All acts must be under three minutes long. The grand prize is $250. Auditions will be held Sunday, March 9, from 1-5 p.m. at Dance Quest International, located at 853 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon. Contact Jennifer Crum at 863661-3236 or crummiej2@gmail.com for an audition time.

Rep. Laurel Lee Celebrates Local Frontline Heroes

Congresswoman Laurel Lee (R-FL) recently held a ceremony honoring Plant City

The Bloomingdale Neighborhood Association are having a spring food truck event. Go out for an afternoon full of great eats and unique ﬁnds. The event will take place on Saturday, March 8, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. in the Park and Ride parking lot next to the Campo Family YMCA. There will be food trucks serving up delicious bites, plus craft vendors and small business owners selling their handmade items. You’ll ﬁnd everything from pillows to T-shirts to custom tumblers and more.

e Florida Strawberry Festival Ra es A 2025 Corvette For Charity

Firefighter Battalion Chief James Wingo and Firefighter of the Year Captain Jason Mesa and celebrating newly sworn-in firefighters Cameron Hall, John Furlow and Christian Torres. Lee presented honorees with a Congressional Certificate recognizing exemplary character and service.

The Florida Strawberry Festival is proud to announce its continued partnership with Stingray Chevrolet and Unity in the Community for the 16th annual Chevrolet Charity Ra e. This year’s ra e features a brand-new 2025 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible 2LT, generously donated by Stingray Chevrolet, with all proceeds beneﬁting Uni- ty in the Community, a local organization dedicated to supporting underprivileged families and youth programs in Plant City. To enter, please visit www.stingraychevrolet.com/chevrolet-charity-ra e-entry-form/. Tickets are $5 each, and the

“Our local firefighters and first responders risk their lives in the face of danger to keep us safe when our community is in need. It was my honor to recognize and celebrate a few of our local heroes by presenting them with Congressional Certificates,” said Lee.

Isaiah

Damage Controlman 3rd Class Abigail Alejo from Plant City performs maintenance aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) during an inspection with the Board of Inspection and Survey.

Congresswoman Laurel Lee presenting Congressional Certi cates to Plant City Fire ghter Battalion Chief James Wingo and Fire ghter of the Year Captain Jason Mesa.

GREAT SHOWS STILL TO COME IN STRAZ BROADWAY SEASON

Just a few weeks into the new year and there are still some big shows coming to the Bank of America Broadway at the Straz season. The series, supported in part by the Tampa Bay Times, o cial media sponsor of the Straz, continues with A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical, MJ the Musical, Mystic Pizza, Shucked and a threeweek engagement of Disney’s The Lion King. The season ahead also features an encore engagement of MAMMA MIA!

A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical

Tuesday, February 11, through Sunday, February 16

Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, A Beautiful Noise is the uplifting true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chartbusting, showstopping American rock icon. With 120 million albums sold, a catalogue of classics like “America,” “Forever in Blue Jeans” and “Sweet Caroline,” an induction into the Songwriters and Rock & Roll halls of fame, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and sold-out concerts around the world that made him bigger than Elvis, Diamond’s story was made to shine on Broadway — and head out on the road across America.

MJ the Musical

Tuesday, February 25, through Sunday, March 2

He is one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Now, Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry comes to Tampa as MJ the Musical, the multi-Tony Award-winning, new musical centered around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour, begins a tour of its own.

Created by Tony Award-winning director/choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, o ering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Jackson into legendary status.

King

Mystic Pizza

Disney’s The Lion King

Wednesday, April 2, through Sunday, April 20

More than 100 million people around the world have experienced the phenomenon of Disney’s The Lion King, and now you can too when Tampa’s best-loved musical returns to the Straz Center. Winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, this landmark musical event brings together one of the most imaginative creative teams on Broadway. Tony Award-winning director Julie Taymor brings to life a story ﬁlled with hope and adventure set against an amazing backdrop of stunning visuals. The Lion King also features some of

Broadway’s most recognizable music, crafted by Tony Award-winning artists Elton John and Tim Rice. There is simply nothing else like The Lion

Tuesday, April 29, through Sunday, May 4

Based on the beloved 1988 MGM romcom that launched the career of Julia Roberts, Mystic Pizza is a new musical about three working-class girls who navigate the complexities of life, love and family in a small-town pizza joint serving everyone from the townies to the privileged country club set. And what’s in that secret sauce, you ask? The hits of the ’80s and ’90s! The hit songs range from “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” to “Hold On” to “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now.”

Shucked

Tuesday, June 3, through Sunday, June 8

Shucked is the Tony Award-winning musical comedy The Wall Street Journal calls “ﬂat out hilarious!” And nobody knows

funny like economists. Featuring a book by Tony Award winner Robert Horn (Tootsie), a score by the Grammy Award–winning songwriting team of Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally (Kacey Musgraves’ “Follow Your Arrow”) and directed by Tony Award winner Jack O’Brien (Hairspray), this corn-fed, cornbred American musical is sure to satisfy your appetite for great musical theater.

In addition to the nine-show Broadway series, The Straz will present the return engagement of: MAMMA MIA!

Now through Sunday, February 2

A mother. A daughter. Three possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget.

Set on a Greek island paradise where the sun always shines, a tale of love, friendship and identity is beautifully told through the timeless hits of ABBA. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the father she’s never known brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited decades ago.

For show ticket information, call the Straz Center Ticket Sales O ce at 813229-STAR (7827) or, if located outside the Tampa Bay area, at 800-955-1045, or visit www.strazcenter.org.

The David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts and its programs are funded in part by the City of Tampa; the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners; the Tourist Development Council/Hillsborough County; the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture; and the National Endowment for the Arts.

In life, you o en get second chances —and the same is true with investing. To illustrate: You might not have been able to contribute to a Roth IRA during your working years due to your income level, but you may get that opportunity as you near retirement, or even when you are retired — through a Roth conversion.

Why is a Roth IRA desirable for some people? Here are the key bene ts:

• Tax-free withdrawals — You put in a er-tax dollars to a Roth IRA, so you can withdraw your contributions at any time, free of taxes and penalties. And if you’ve had your account for at least ve years and you’re at least 59½, you can also withdraw your earnings free of taxes.

like to bene t from a Roth IRA. And you can do so by converting your traditional IRA to a Roth. While this sounds simple, there’s a major caveat: taxes. You’ll be taxed on the amount in pre-tax dollars you contributed to a traditional IRA and then converted to a Roth IRA. (If you have both pre- and a er-tax dollars in your traditional IRA, the taxable amount is based on the percentage of pre-tax dollars.)

If you have large amounts in a traditional IRA, the tax bill on conversion can be significant. e key to potentially lowering this tax bill is timing. Generally speaking, the lower your income in a given year, the more favorable it is for you to convert to a Roth IRA. So, for example, if you have already retired, but have not started collecting RMDs, your income may be down.

• No RMDs — With a traditional IRA, you’ll have to start taking withdrawals — called required minimum distributions, or RMDs — when you turn 73, or 75 if you were born in 1960 or later. But there’s no RMD requirement with a Roth IRA — you can essentially leave the money intact as long as you like.

• Tax-free legacy for your heirs — When your heirs inherit your Roth IRA, they can withdraw the contributions without paying taxes or penalties, and if the account has been open at least ve years, they can also withdraw earnings tax free.

Timing also comes into play with the nancial markets. When the market is going through a decline, and the value of your traditional IRA drops, you could convert the same number of shares of the underlying investments and receive a lower tax bill or convert more shares of these investments for what would have been the same tax bill.

But even if you were aware of these advantages, you might not have been able to invest in a Roth IRA for much of your life. For one thing, you might have earned too much money — a Roth IRA, unlike a traditional IRA, has income limits. Also, a Roth IRA has only been around since 1998, so, in the previous years, you were limited to a traditional IRA.

As you approach retirement, though, you might start thinking of just how much you’d

Finally, you could lower your tax bill in any given year by stretching out your Roth IRA conversions over several years, rather than doing it all at once. You’ll want to consult with your tax advisor before embarking on this conversion--but if it’s appropriate for your situation, you could nd that owning a Roth IRA can bene t you and your family for years to come.

Photo Credit: Deen Van Meer.

Darian Sanders as Simba. e Lion King North American Tour ©Disney.

Photo Credit: Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman. Ashley D. Kelley and Grey Henson in Shucked.

LOCAL FAMILY-OWNED LA SEPTIMA CAFE CELEBRATES 30 YEARS

La Septima Cafe is a family-owned and operated restaurant that has been in the Brandon area for 30 years. La Septima Cafe was opened in 1995 by owners Ronnie and Dahlia Fernandez, with its original location being on N. Parsons Avenue. After 16 years at that location, it moved to its current location in La Viva Plaza, off of W. Lumsden Road. Ronnie and Dahlia’s children, RJ and Jennifer, have been actively involved in the restaurant as well over the years.

By Ashley Abene

is available at

When La Septima opened, the Fernandezes planned to incorporate Ybor’s charm, as their grandparents had originally immigrated to Ybor. La Septima’s decor became that of old Ybor City. It still has that old Ybor City feel 30 years later, with La Septima’s motto written on its sign as “a taste of Old Ybor.”

Dahlia said of opening La Septima Cafe 30 years ago, “On February 9, 1995, La Septima Cafe was born. What a scary day. We were no strangers to the restaurant business, having years of experience with delis, breakfast/lunch/dinner

spots, but this was all new. …

Our son, RJ, and daughter, Jennifer, then 17 and 24, were hired immediately to do whatever had to be done. It was a family business, after all. We had a minimal staff, limited menu and a lot of heart and ambition.

Our family (me, my husband, our son and daughter) are very much hands-on still, but our general manager, Virginia Griffin, is our mainstay. She is the center of the operation, and we are grateful to her for her hard work, loyalty and compassion.”

Dahlia also stated, “We truly love our community and their tremendous support through thick and thin, and the changes to the way we do business. We strive to keep our prices affordable and our service excellent.”

La Septima Cafe is open Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m., located at 702 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. For more information, call 813-685-0502 or visit https://laseptimacafe.com/.

ABE BROWN MINISTRIES HELPS BREAK CYCLE OF REINCARCERATION WITH INSPHIRE COMPREHENSIVE REENTRY PROGRAM

The mission of Abe Brown Ministries is to break cycles of incarceration by helping to renew the minds of incarcerated and formerly incarcerated citizens, motivating them to change their behaviors and achieve purposeful lives.

“We do this as a compassionate demonstration of the love of Jesus Christ,” said Abe Brown Ministries’ director of fund development, Denise Anderson. “We are a premiere organization that reduces recidivism, replenishes the workforce, reunifies and rebuilds families as well as reinforces and renews the strength of communities.”

Abe Brown Ministries’ inspHire Comprehensive Reentry Program serves Hillsborough, Polk, Pasco and Pinellas counties by providing wraparound services, including transitional living housing for those who have been released from incarceration and are seeking to become self-sufficient, thriving members of the community.

“As part of the wraparound services, the inspHire Program reeducates and reskills the incarcerated and formerly incarcerated, now renewed citizens, in a comprehensive learning environment to deliver training for personal growth and professional development paths to achieve life objectives,” Anderson said. “We provide transitional living services for a safe, supportive residence for the inspHire Program participants in which they are able to live purposeful and industrious lives as community citizens, at home or

By Libby Hopkins

wherever their journey leads them.”

One of the greatest challenges for those who have experienced incarceration and are returning citizens to the Hillsborough County community is finding safe, secure, available and affordable housing.

“Abe Brown Ministries partners with housing providers in the community to support the personal growth and professional development process,” Anderson said. “The transition living homes that Abe Brown Ministries partners — two of which are in Brandon, one women’s home and one men’s home — provide the comfort of being able to return to a comfortable home environment after spending most of the day in the learning classroom, on-site at Abe Brown Ministries.”

The transitional homes in Brandon are located on the HART bus line for easy access and transportation to class, provide safe, secure, available and affordable living space.

“Abe Brown Ministries invites anyone interested in facilitating the returning citizens’ transition back into our community either by guiding them to enroll in the Abe Brown Ministry’s inspHire Comprehensive Reentry Program or through providing transition living housing to those in the program to contact Abe Brown Ministries,” Anderson said. Visit its website at www.abebrown.org, or call 813-247-3285, ext. 200, from Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., to speak with its community resource coordinator.

Abe Brown Ministries’ inspHire Comprehensive Reentry Program serves Hillsborough, Polk, Pasco and Pinellas

La Septima Cafe is a family affair. Pictured are owners, the multi-generational Fernandez family.

Catering

La Septima Cafe. Pictured is baked chicken, black beans, rice and tossed salad.

DERRICK WILLIAMS, HOST OF THE GOSPEL

VOICE, CELEBRATES 18 YEARS ON THE CHRISTIAN TELEVISION NETWORK

Derrick Williams, a vocalist, pianist, songwriter and host of The Gospel Voice, will be celebrating his 18th year on the Christian Television Network (CTN) in 2025. Williams is a six-time Best of The Bay winner for Best Vocalist, Singer, Songwriter and Pianist. He currently gigs as a solo act locally as a jazz vocalist and pianist at various restaurants around Tampa Bay.

Williams also records gospel music and serves as a praise and worship leader for over 30 years. His upcoming gospel album is expected to be released in 2025 across all music platforms worldwide.

Williams is also well known nationwide for his thrilling stage performances as the originator of the lead role of the ‘Rabbi’ in the musical The Rock & The Rabbi. He joined the cast in 1998, receiving rave reviews while playing to sold-out crowds at prestigious venues throughout the country for 22 years. Touring nationally a orded Williams’ tens of thousands of fans nationwide.

After an impromptu musical guest appearance in 2007 on CTN’s Flagship program The Good Life with CTN’s late president and founder, Bob D’Andrea, Williams was o ered to host a gospel music show. D’Andrea, who appreciated Williams’ musical gifts, coined him as ‘The Music Man,’ believing in his ability to reach souls through music and his passion for the Lord.

“Singing gospel music is not what I do; it’s who I am and what God has gifted me to be. I am truly blessed and thankful to begin my

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18th year on air on the Christian Television Network, sharing the gospel through music and praise and worship. When you are walking with the Lord, you gain wisdom, guidance in your life and knowledge of God’s truths,” said Williams.

The Gospel Voice with Derrick Williams, nominated in 2023 and 2024 as Best of the Bay for Best Morning Show, is an energetic and inspiring music show featuring Williams’ passion for the Lord and his unique songwriting and musical style. He blends an extraordinary mix of traditional, contemporary and original gospel and Christian music fused with jazz, rock, rhythm and blues and soul.

Led by the Holy Spirit, Williams leads praise and worship while ministering through spoken words and music. He serves as the show’s musical and creative director and is joined on stage by the ﬁnest musicians and vocalists, who all share a love for the Lord. Williams is also employed as an audio technician at CTN headquarters.

The Gospel Voice currently airs weekly across all CTN Networks on Wednesdays at 9 p.m., Fridays at 8:30 p.m. and Sundays at 12:30 a.m. (locally on WCLF, channel 22). Check your local network for additional dates and times.

Williams is available for bookings for church events, praise and worship, Sunday’s Soulful Supper shows and corporate or private parties or events.

Visit www.derrickwilliamsvocalist.com or www.thegospelvoicetvshow.com or on socials at @thegospelvoicetvshow.

A KID’S PLACE BUILDS NEW EXTENDED STAY HOME FOR TEENS AND YOUNG ADULTS AGING OUT OF FOSTER CARE

A Kid’s Place has been helping children who are in foster care since 2009. The center provides a safe, loving and nurturing home for foster children. Its vision is to create, implement and sustain a program which raises the standard of residential care for foster children. It allows sibling groups to stay together as they begin to heal from the trauma they’ve endured.

This past January, A Kid’s Place opened the doors of its ﬁrst extended stay homes for teens and young adults who have aged out of foster care.

“Our extended foster care home is for youth ages 18-22 who have aged out of care,” said A Kid’s Place’s development director, Samantha Mellen. “We expanded services in 2020 with a home for young ladies and this second home will be for young men aging out of foster care. We recently ﬁnished our updates; it has been completely renovated inside with new ﬂooring, paint, kitchen, bathrooms and a new roof.”

The new home will serve young men aging out of foster care from A Kid’s Place or Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco counties.

“We have a dedicated independent lining coordinator that will assist them as they focus on the next phase of their life be it work, trade, college or military in a safe and stable environment,” Mellen said.

Once a child turns 18, they are considered to be ‘aged out’ of the foster care system. What happens next for them isn’t always

By Libby Hopkins

so hopeful and clear. That’s why A Kid’s Place is proud to o er its unique Extended Foster Care services.

“We renovated the home with the help of grants from several community partners that are passionate about helping youth aging out of care,” Mellen said. “As of now, two young men who were residing at A Kid’s Place, they both recently turned 18 and now are living in the home. We can have up to four young men living in the home.”

Mellen and the team at A Kid’s Place want children who have aged out of foster care to know they are there to help them.

“We want them to know that they are not alone during this next phase of adulthood and will have the opportunity to learn the responsibilities that goes with becoming an adult in a safe place,” Mellen said. “Each young man will realize they can take their time exploring the path that is best for them.”

A Kid’s Place’s next project will be to break ground on a new 12,000-square-foot activity center in March that will provide more space, classrooms and opportunities to better serve the children in its care. If you would like to learn more about A Kid’s Place or donate to it, you can visit its website at https://akidsplacetb.org/ or call 813-381-3839. A Kid’s Place is located at 1715 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon.

A Kid’s Place opened the doors of its rst extended stay homes for teens and young adults who have aged out of foster care.

THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA PRESENTS THE LEGENDARY YO-YO MA

The Florida Orchestra (TFO) will present a one-night-only gala beneﬁt concert featuring legendary cellist Yo-Yo Ma, conducted by music director Michael Francis, on Friday, February 28, at 8 p.m. at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. The renowned 19-time Grammy Award-winning artist will perform Antonín Dvořák’s stirring Cello Concerto, one of the most beloved works in the cello repertoire.

Tickets for this exclusive event are on sale with prices ranging from $75-$350. Fees apply. Tickets can be purchased directly through The Florida Orchestra’s website at https://ﬂoridaorchestra.org/, by phone at 727-892-3337 or in person at the TFO Ticket Center, located at 244 2nd Ave. N. in St. Petersburg.

The concert will also feature a performance of Richard Strauss’ famous Don Juan, adding to the evening’s dramatic and vibrant program. This special event will support The Florida Orchestra’s commitment to artistic excellence and its wide-reaching education and community programs, which serve more than 155,000 people across the Tampa Bay area each year.

A world-renowned musician, Ma has built a career based on his belief in the power of culture to foster understanding and unity. Whether performing timeless classics or exploring new musical forms,

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Ma’s artistry strives to connect people and inspire creativity. His performance with TFO is sure to be a memorable highlight in the orchestra’s season.

The benefit concert will be conducted by maestro Michael Francis, who is celebrating his 10th season with TFO. VIP packages and sponsorship opportunities are available, including premium seating, a preconcert reception and a seated dinner in the Ruth Eckerd Hall Great Room. These packages are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information about VIP and sponsorship opportunities, please contact Susana Weymouth, TFO chief development ocer, at 727-362-5430 or sweymouth@ floridaorchestra.org.

Generously presented by The Cassaly Foundation, the concert is a key fundraising event for The Florida Orchestra, which continues to inspire, educate and unite the Tampa Bay community through the transformative power of music.

The Florida Orchestra’s 2024-25 season features over 100 performances across Tampa Bay, o ering a wide range of classical, popular and family-friendly programs.

Ruth Eckerd Hall is located at 1111 McMullen Booth Rd. in Clearwater. For more details or to purchase tickets, visit https://ﬂoridaorchestra.org/.

THE TAMPA HILLSBOROUGH HOMELESS INITIATIVE

LOOKS TO THE COMMUNITY TO HELP WITH ITS 2025 PIT COUNT

The purpose of the Tampa Hillsborough Homeless Initiative (THHI) is to lead the Tampa/ Hillsborough County Continuum of Care (CoC) in collaboration with agencies to develop and provide innovative solutions to make homelessness rare, brief and nonrecurring in Hillsborough County.

By Libby Hopkins

e Tampa Hillsborough Homeless Initiative (THHI) is conducting its 2025 Point-in-Time (PIT) Count. THHI needs more than 500 volunteers, who will be asked to interview people experiencing unsheltered homelessness and collect data about them and their experiences.

This collaboration, with a wide range of partners, engages and mobilizes systems of care on a local, regional and national level to develop e ective prevention and intervention services for people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires CoC to conduct a Point-in-Time (PIT) Count of persons experiencing homelessness at least every two years. The Tampa/Hillsborough County CoC conducts a homeless count annually. According to HUD, each community shall make every e ort to count all homeless individuals living outdoors, in shelters and in transitional housing.

“The Point-in-Time Count is our annual event, during which we survey our neighbors who are experiencing homelessness,” said THHI Director of Data Systems Sergio Santiago. “The data this event gathers is used by the federal and state governments to make all sorts of important decisions, so we put a

lot of e ort into making sure this event is a success.”

The community can get involved by signing up to a survey at www.thhi.org/ pitsignup and participating in this great event.

“The PIT Count is more than just a requirement; it’s an opportunity for our community to come together, see the reality of homelessness ﬁrsthand and take action,” said Antoinette Hayes-Triplett, CEO at THHI. “Every volunteer plays a crucial role in ensuring that no one is invisible and that we have the data needed to drive real solutions. I encourage everyone to step forward, join us and be part of the e ort to make homelessness rare, brief and nonrecurring in Hillsborough County.”

THHI needs more than 500 volunteers, who will be asked to interview people experiencing unsheltered homelessness and collect data about them and their experiences.

“The PIT Count allows us all to come together and help make homelessness rare, brief and nonrecurring,” Santiago said. “We hope to rally the community to unite and have a great count.”

THHI’s PIT Count will be held on Tuesday, February 27. If you would like to learn more about THHI or want to volunteer to help with the 2025 PIT Count, you can visit THHI’s website at www.thhi.org.

Photo credit: Jason Bell.

Legendary cellist Yo-Yo Ma will perform for a one-night gala for e Florida Orchestra at Ruth Eckerd Hall.

SELAH FREEDOM SAFE HOUSE: A CRITICAL FIRST STEP IN HUMAN TRAFFICKING RECOVERY

By Marie Gilmore

In the heart of Southeast Hillsborough County, the Selah Freedom safe house stands as a beacon of hope for survivors of human tra cking, providing a crucial ﬁrst step toward healing. Serving as the ﬁrst point of recovery for victims across a six-county radius, the safe house has even welcomed individuals from other states, thanks to collaborative e orts and outreach.

“Our survivors often arrive here directly from the courts, the FBI or even the Department of Homeland Security,” said Angela Valenti, assessment coordinator for Selah Freedom. “Our goal is to offer them a place to heal for six to eight weeks before they transition into our 12 to 18-month residential program, with the ultimate aim of graduation.”

Valenti, who is herself a survivor, graduate and now an employee at Selah Freedom, brings a personal understanding to her work, speaking directly to the survivors with compassion and empathy.

During a recent visit to the safe house, Thomas and Mary Abraham toured the facility on behalf of their church, St. Mark’s Mar Thoma Church in Tampa.

“We’ve always been passionate about community service,” said Thomas. “Our church members are eager to get involved with a neighborhood mission.”

The Abrahams are no strangers to volunteer work, having also contributed time to A Kid’s Place and Forgotten Angels in the area. As part of their involvement with Selah Freedom, they are exploring ideas for enriching classes for residents, including cooking, art, music therapy and even yoga. They also noted the ongoing need for donations of personal toiletries and other necessities, in addition to fundraising for expanded programs.

Founded in 2010, Selah Freedom o ers ﬁve core programs: awareness, prevention, outreach, residential and consulting. The organization provides vital education and support services to individuals a ected by human and sex tra cking. In addition to its residential campus and assessment home, Selah Freedom o ers free education and outreach to schools, law enforcement agencies and partner organizations across Hillsborough, Pinellas, Sarasota, Manatee, Polk and Pasco counties.

Since its inception, Selah Freedom has supported 6,853 survivors and educated over 72,000 children and adults on trafficking awareness and prevention. The name ‘Selah’ is derived from Hebrew, meaning to pause, rest, and reflect — a fitting representation of the organization’s mission to give survivors a space to heal and rebuild their lives.

For more information or to ﬁnd out how to get involved, visit https://selahfreedom.com/.

Selah Freedom operates a safe house for human tra cking survivors in the Southeast Hillsborough County area.

ROTARY SPOTLIGHT:

ACTIVITIES, MEETINGS & MORE

With the motto of ‘Service Above Self,’ local Rotary clubs make an impact by supporting local and global organizations, with proceeds from fundraising events and by contributing to the eradication of Polio and funding of global grants through Rotary Foundation in seven areas of focus.

During the 2024 calendar year… Brandon ’86 Rotary participated in campus beautiﬁcation at schools, Christmas and Easter events for foster children at Everyday Blessings, quarterly roadside cleanups with Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful and hurricane recovery e orts both locally and across the Bay Area. For more information, contact Chad Norgard at chad@ norgardinsgrp.com.

USF Rotaract exceeded their fall semester goals by painting pinkies on campus to raise awareness of polio, collecting 1,300plus lbs. of debris, organizing 14 hurricane relief events, sorting 1,000-plus articles of clothing for Oasis Opportunities, crocheting 50-plus plushies for the children at Joshua House and collecting food for the Feed-A-Bull pantry on campus. For more information, visit USF Rotaract Club on Instagram.

Brandon Rotary, with proceeds from its annual golf tournament and annual Wild Game Dinner, awarded college scholarships to students and supported charities, including the High 5 TRIDENT program; ECHO; the Angel Foundation FL; Hope for Her; Rotary’s Camp Florida; the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council, Boy Scouts of America; and the Guatemala Aid Fund. It

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has provided gate volunteers for the Hillsborough County Fair, a hot dog lunch for Backpack Heroes Day and 100-plus teddy bears for children through the Tampa Rough Riders. For more information, text Debbie Meegan at 813-601-2315.

FishHawk-Riverview Rotary, with funds from its annual Alaﬁa Lighted Boat Parade and annual Crawﬁsh Festival, supported students with college scholarships, student delegates to Seminar for Tomorrow’s Leaders (S4TL) and awards in the annual high school Speech Contest. Yearly, a volunteer team travels to La Paz, Honduras, to work with Honduras Compassion Partners on building projects. Local projects included lunch for Backpack Heroes Day and hurricane cleanups. For more information, contact Betty Huth at betty@hbphoto.com.

The E-Club of Tampa South meets on Zoom to enable those with tight schedules, especially military and ﬁrst responders, to engage in service through Rotary. A new but thriving club, it provided veterans with breakfast at Fishhawk Bagels on Veteran’s Day this past November, sent a student to S4TL, supported Honduras For more information, contact Duane Williams at dsigma79@aol.com or 813-541-6202.

You’re invited to visit local Rotary clubs, follow the clubs on social media and join them for these fundraisers in early 2025:

• FishHawk-Riverview Rotary’s annual Crawﬁsh Festival, on Saturday, April 26, at Winthrop Town Centre, located at 6108 Winthrop Town Centre Ave. in Riverview.

The Small But Mighty Heroes organization is gearing up for its second annual gala, Dancing for Heroes, taking place on Friday, March 21, from 7-10 p.m. at The Regent. This enchanting evening will feature dancers performing superhero-themed routines to raise funds for children battling pediatric cancer.

The event, themed ‘Fantasy and Fairytales Night,’ aims to bring magic to life as dancers honor true heroes — children fighting cancer. Attendees can expect a night filled with wonder, joy and heartfelt moments as each step and spin on the dance floor becomes a tribute to courage, hope and resilience.

Small But Mighty Heroes is a 501(3)(c) orga-

By Kelly Wise Valdes

“Witnessing the impact of dance on grieving parents was transformative; it allowed them to process their loss and heal together,” said Downing. “This inspired us to include dancing as part of our bereavement program, o ering families a powerful way to grieve, connect and ﬁnd strength through movement.”

Tina Downing is the founder of Small But Mighty Heroes and the visionary for this ballroom dancing fundraiser.

“Dancing For Heroes was born out of my personal journey with Latin and ballroom dancing, which began in 2021 after I tragically lost my twin sister,” said Downing.

“At that time, I turned to dance as a way to grieve and cope. It gave me an outlet to express emotions that words couldn’t, serving as a form of therapy and healing.”

Over time, dancing became not only Downing’s personal refuge but also a way to honor the children she supported through her nonproﬁt organization, Small But Mighty Heroes, especially those whose lives were cut short.

This special community event celebrates the lives of the children battling cancer and to raise critical funds for Small But Mighty Heroes programs beneﬁting the families served through this nonproﬁt organization. Many local community members are dancing in this event, including local authors, business owners, realtors and more.

General admission tickets are priced at $75, o ering half-hour early entrance, general seating, passed hors d’oeuvres and desserts, along with one drink ticket. VIP tickets are available for $125, providing one-hour early entrance, reserved seating in a premium location, VIP ‘red-carpet’ treatment, additional hors d’oeuvres and a meet and greet with professional dancers and contestants.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://smallbutmightyheroes.org/ or call 813-772-4584. The Regent is located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview.

Discover Hammock Bay, a serene enclave nestled between Biscayne Canal and Tampa Bay, offering a rare opportunity for waterfront living at its finest. This exclusive, gated community combines privacy and tranquility with convenient access to Tampa and St. Petersburg. Each expansive homesite is designed for gracious living, featuring custom-built homes or a limited collection of thoughtfully designed residences by Bartlett Custom Homes and Tide Homes. Enjoy a private boat dock with direct access to bay waters, creating a perfect blend of luxury and a relaxed boating lifestyle.

WITH

2025 BAY AREA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL BRINGS

JOUSTING, MERRIMENT AND MEDIEVAL ADVENTURE

The 2025 Bay Area Renaissance Festival is set to kick off mid-February, promising an unforgettable journey back to the 16th century for visitors of all ages. During weekends from now through Sunday, March 30, rain or shine, the festival will transform the lush grounds of the Red Fest grounds in Dade City into a vibrant, medieval village, complete with knights, jousts and artisan markets.

TO TAMPA BAY

This year’s events promise to be some of the most exciting yet, with a fresh lineup of performers, attractions, and themed weekends to engage guests in a variety of immersive experiences. Festivalgoers will be able to wander through the artisan marketplace, encountering costumed characters from all walks of life, from royal courtiers to rogue pirates and wandering minstrels. This year, the festival will feature an expanded entertainment roster.

Highlighting the action-packed schedule are the thrilling jousting tournaments, where armored knights will compete in full battle regalia for glory and honor. The competitions, set against the backdrop of cheering crowds, will take place throughout the weekends, providing excitement for spectators of all ages.

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Additionally, daily events include the Romance Package with front row seats at the joust, Brunch at the Joust including a gourmet lunch, mead tastings, a daily pub crawl, Cocktail Crawl, Queen’s Tea, Fairy Tale Tea Party, Marriage Renewal En Masse and Vow Renewal En Masse.

Festivalgoers can also expect a sprawling marketplace, where artisans will display handcrafted jewelry, clothing, pottery and other treasures, many of which are inspired by the Renaissance period.

With live music, delicious food and the timeless fun of watching actors and performers immerse themselves in the lore of the era, the Bay Area Renaissance Festival offers a one-of-a-kind experience in Tampa Bay.

Tickets for the 2025 festival are on sale now, with special discounts for families, groups and early purchasers. For more information on the full schedule and ticket options, visit https://bayarearenfest.com/.

The Renaissance Festival grounds are located at 12838 Auton Rd. in Dade City, and the festival is open from 10 a.m.6 p.m. Parking is free. Discount tickets start at $17.59 and event tickets range from $30-$67 per person.

STRAWBERRY SQUARE DANCING OFFERS LESSONS AND DANCES FOR ALL AGES

Beginners and advanced square dancers can find their next dance floor at Strawberry Square Dancing.

Open throughout the week, the company hosts lessons and dances for all ages, or at least those who know their lefts from their rights.

Cherylene Sorrells, dance committee chairperson, said that once you know which direction you’re going, the second-hardest part is simply listening to directions.

“Everybody will say, ‘Well, I got two left feet,’” Sorrells said. “And we said, ‘Well, we can fix that because it’s very easy.’”

Strawberry Square Dancing opened decades ago. It’s mostly seniors dancing on the floating hardwood floor in Plant City, but Strawberry Square Dancing is open to anyone who wants to join.

In addition to learning fun dances, Strawberry Square Dancing is a way to make friends, most of whom are from the same mobile home park. Groups of dancers have also traveled to different state conventions to showcase their routines.

The company hosts both square dance

By Lily Belcher

lessons and round dance lessons and dances for each style.

Classes for all skill levels start in January each year. It’s not a competition, Sorrells said, just lots of fun.

Sorrells said the reason she volunteers her time to the company is because she loves it.

“I love what I’m doing, I love the people, I love the dancing and it’s so good for your health and it’s fun,” she said.

Sorrells is a snowbird from Georgia. She said she started dancing when her kids graduated high school and she became an empty nester. One of her friends tried a square dancing lesson and encouraged her to join.

“We thought, ‘That looks like fun,’” she said. “So, we went and tried it, and we loved it.”

She said it’s an inexpensive way to get some activity in and sharpen your brain. Lessons are $7 and the season runs from November through April, but Strawberry Square Dancing does offer some dances over the summer.

Strawberry Square Dancing is located at 4401 Promenade Blvd. in Plant City, off Boot Bay and Beauchamp roads. For more information or to check the calendar for the most up to date information, visit www.strawberrysquaredancing.com or call the office at 813752-0491.

ENROLL

There will be fun for the whole family at the 2025 Bay Area Renaissance Festival, located in Dade City from now through Sunday, March 30.

Strawberry Square Dancing hosts lessons and dances for all ages and skill levels.

PREPARING STUDENTS FOR LIFE: CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION AT HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

At Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS), we’re all about preparing students for life, no matter what path they choose after graduation. That’s where our career and technical education (CTE) programs come in — they’re truly a game changer.

What used to be called vocational education has evolved into modern CTE programs, designed to set students up for well-paying jobs right after high school.

Here in Hillsborough County, we o er over 400 unique middle and high school courses across a wide range of ﬁelds — from agriculture to culinary arts, computer programming to health sciences. CTE programs are taught throughout our 28 high schools, four career centers and include 47 middle school programs.

By Superintendent Van Ayres

FUELFEST BRINGS 800 CARS TO TAMPA SHOW SATURDAY,

MARCH 1

Starting as early as middle school, students can explore their interests while earning industry-recognized certiﬁcations, such as EKG technician, nursing assistant, agricultural technician, veterinary assistant, welder and more.

lenging and include academic, technical education and career training. Whether students are learning how to repair cars, build homes, design software or manage ﬁnances, CTE programs give them the skills and conﬁdence to step into their fu-

And it’s not just students who beneﬁt. We work closely with local businesses to ensure our programs match the needs of the job market. These partnerships lead to internships, apprenticeships and mentorships, o ering students real-world experience and connections to potential employers. Many graduates transition straight from CTE into rewarding careers, helping to ﬁll critical workforce gaps in industries like health care and skilled trades.

CTE courses are designed to be chal-

Finally, CTE programs also play a big role in helping students graduate. By o ering handson learning and pathways tailored to their interests, students stay engaged and motivated to succeed.

To learn more about our CTE programs, visit www.hillsboroughschools.org.

Following record-setting shows in South Florida since 2022, FuelFest is set to open gates for their 1st annual show at the Florida State Fairgrounds located at 4800 US Highway 301 North on Saturday, March 1 . Gates for the event open to the public from 1-8pm. Admission tickets start at $35 per person and kids 12 and under are FREE. Visit www.FuelFest.com for ticket information. All new for 2025 – judged car show sections and best of show awards and trophies.

Now in its seventh year of hosting events globally from Los Angeles, Dallas, West Palm Beach, New Jersey, Atlanta, Arizona, Tokyo, London and Abu Dhabi. FuelFest blends the enthusiast’s passion for the automotive world with appearances by Fast & Furious franchise stars, Tyrese Gibson, Cody Walker and live action drifting, live music with multiple artists on the festival stage, a huge car show, automotive culture, dozens of custom exhibits and more.

This year, the show will feature more than 800 top custom, exotic, rare and exclusive cars and trucks, plus drift ride alongs and Fast and Furious screen used movie cars, various interactive fan racing activities and attractions. The FuelFest drift pits are open access, allowing fans to get up close to their favorite race cars and see what these amazing machines are all about. FuelFest also fea-

tures the all new popular showcase area: Taste of Tokyo, giving fans a Japanese underground car meet vibe with a variety of cars you’re likely to see lurking in the streets of Tokyo.

For those looking to elevate the thrilling experience, FuelFest o ers VIP access with premium beneﬁts, early admission access for FuelClub members, limited edition merchandise, free swag, auctions, and more.

A portion of the event’s proceeds benefit Reach Out WorldWide (ROWW), the non-profit charity founded by Paul Walker and continued by his brother, Cody Walker. Founded in 2010, the organization was created by the late actor and producer after a massive earthquake devastated Haiti with the inspiration to organize a relief team that responded to the disaster. ROWW’s mission is to fill the gap between the availability of skilled resources in post-disaster situations. As of 2024, ROWW has raised over $580,000 through the partnership with FuelFest to benefit those in need and has deployed resources to several disaster areas including recently Asheville, NC & Englewood, FL following hurricanes Helene and MIlton, Lahaina, Hawaii, Türkiye, and more.

For information and tickets to the event, visit https://fuelfest.com/. Sta

Tyrese Gibson and Cody Walker will bring FuelFest to Tampa on Saturday, March 1.

State Attorney Suzy Lopez was officially sworn in for her first full term in o ce in front of a room of state and local leaders, supporters, attorneys and sta . Gov. Ron DeSantis was the keynote speaker for this historic occasion as Lopez o cially became the first woman ever elected to serve as State Attorney in Hillsborough County. Former Florida Attorney General and current nominee for U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi swore in Lopez, while current Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody held the Bible for the ceremony.

live in a safe community, and we as prosecutors will enforce and follow the law with the help of our law enforcement partners. I thank my dedicated team of attorneys and support sta who value this community as much as I do and are committed to keeping our families safe,” said Lopez.

“Florida is a lawand-order state.

Lopez told the crowd of state and local leaders and supporters that she will continue to enforce and follow the law to make our community a safer place. She thanked her colleagues, supporters, law enforcement o cers and local leaders for their commitment to ensuring that Hillsborough County remains safe under her watch.

Since she arrived to lead this agency in August 2022, Lopez has successfully put the concerns of crime victims ahead of criminals while partnering with law enforcement to see a record reduction in crime. She has personally mourned with families who have lost loved ones to criminal violence and does so with compassion and care.

“I promise to proudly serve my hometown as we pursue public safety together. Working for victims and their families is why we get up every day. We all want to

That means our state attorneys uphold our laws, prosecute crimes and seek justice for victims. But too many prosecutors around the country put their ideological agenda over upholding their oath of o ce. Three years ago, Hillsborough County had such a state attorney. I removed him from o ce and replaced him with Suzy Lopez. Suzy has earned the trust of her community by restoring the rule of law and keeping Hillsborough County safe. That’s why she defeated the Soros-aligned candidate in November’s election, and she will continue to set an example for other state attorneys to follow,” said DeSantis.

The state attorney’s o ce is committed to keeping the public informed about the outcomes of major court cases to ensure transparency and accountability. The ofﬁce believes it is of utmost importance for the public to understand how our justice system operates in order to build trust. To learn more about the outcome of cases prosecuted in our o ce, follow it on Twitter @HillsboroughSAO and @SuzyLopezSA, Instagram @HillsboroughStateAttorney and Facebook @HillsboroughSAO.

Jeep enthusiasts will hit the road for a good cause at the inaugural Duck Domestic Violence Jeep Run, supporting Mary & Martha House Inc. The event will take participants on a scenic drive through Tampa Bay, culminating at The Motor Enclave on Saturday, March 15.

The run will kick o at 10 a.m. from various locations around Tampa Bay, with the ﬁnal destination being at The Motor Enclave by 2 p.m. At the event’s conclusion, prizes will be awarded based on the color and number of custom ‘ducks’ collected along the route.

Jeep. Sponsorship opportunities are available as well, starting at $250.

Each registered participant will receive a custom tote bag and a Duck Domestic Violence vehicle window ﬂag to display during the run. Along the way, they will stop at various checkpoints around Tampa Bay to pick up specially designed ducks, which will play a role in the prize giveaway at The Motor Enclave.

Space for the event is limited to 100 Jeeps, and registration costs $75 per

“This event is incredibly important to us,” said Bill Chini, executive director of Mary & Martha House. “Not only will it raise much-needed funds to support victims of domestic violence and homelessness, but it also o ers a chance to raise awareness about our mission in a fun and engaging way. By driving through Tampa Bay with Mary & Martha House ﬂags on our vehicles, we can reach new communities and expand the conversation about domestic violence.”

Mary & Martha House, which has been a lifeline for women and families for over 40 years, o ers emergency and transitional housing and critical support services to help homeless women and domestic violence survivors secure stable housing and employment. The organization is based in Ruskin, with a retail store at 312 S. U.S. 41. For more information, visit https://marymarthahouse.org/.

Jeeps are wanted

the rst-ever Duck Domestic Violence Jeep Run to support Mary & Martha House.

Brandon/Winthrop

Papaya Primary Care

Does ings Di erently

Papaya Primary Care, located at 3113 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico, recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Valrico/Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce.

Papaya Primary Care does things di erently so that its patients have quick access to quality care and less stress about cost. Instead of insurance billing, it operates using an a ordable monthly membership in exchange for health care. Members have unlimited access to their provider without co-pays or after-visit fees. Free generic prescriptions are o ered through its pharmacy partnership and a panel of screening labs are free to members every year. Learn more at www.papayaprimarycare.com or by calling 813-669-0511. You can also schedule a no-obligation, 10-minute inquiry call to see if the clinic is right for you.

ness on March 1st. Interested students should complete the appropriate application at one of the links below and submit it along with the required uploads. Eligibility, criteria, and additional information may be found on the applications.

College/University> https://business.valricoﬁshhawk.org/form/view/35550

Trade or Vocational School> https:// business.valricofishhawk.org/form/ view/35549

Gentle Touch Estate Sales

Valrico/FishHawk Chamber Scholarship Opportunities

The Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce scholarship opportunities for graduating high school seniors in our community. We are o ering four scholarships:

Two for students attending a 2-year or 4-year college/university

Two for students attending a trade or vocational school

The application deadline is close of busi-

Based in Apollo Beach, Gentle Touch Estate Sales specializes in providing comprehensive estate liquidation. When someone passes away, moves or downsizes, it comes in to organize and price the entire contents of the household and ensure a large, organized sale of their possessions. Its team of experts handles every aspect of the estate sale process, including pricing, staging, cleaning out after the

Gentle Touch Estate Sales LL

Debbie Berg

813-812-0780

NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED CARE

e Valrico/Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce celebrated the opening of Papaya Primary Care with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. AM Designs & Services celebrated its 10-year anniversary with a ribbon-cutting ceremony from the Valrico/Fishhawk Chamber

sale and execution. For more information, visit its website at https://gentletouchestatesales.com/ or call 813-812-0780.

AM Design & Services

debbie@gentletouchestatesales.com www.gentletouchestatesales.com

AM Design & Services, owned by Abi Merkle, is a creative studio that designs business success through graphic design, social media and branding. It helps businesses across the country launch and reorganize their advertising and marketing e orts to elevate their business to the next level. With over 20 years in corporate retail advertising, AM Designs & Services understands more than just advertising and marketing; it understands how businesses can work, and it strives to bring out-ofthe-box ideas to the table. AM Designs & Services celebrated its 10-year anniversary with a ribbon-cutting from the Valrico/ Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce. To

ﬁnd out more, visit its website at https://amdesignservice.com/ or call 813-308-9819.

Cypress Creek Assisted Living And Memory Care Residence

Cypress Creek Assisted Living and Memory Care Residence, privately owned and family operated, was founded upon enhancing the quality of life through a family-focused model and personalized

care. The communities at Cypress Creek Assisted Living are divided into personalized neighborhoods with high sta -to-resident ratios, and the living spaces provide a sense of community in an environment that does not overwhelm and has been purposed to accommodate individualized needs. Cypress Creek Assisted Living and Memory Care Residence is located at 970 Cypress Village Blvd. in Sun City Center. Visit its website at www.cypresscreekalf. com or call 813-633-7777.

EYE ON BUSINESS...CONTINUED

Compiled By Jenny Bennett

Align Right Realty

Align Right Realty is excited to share that its longtime preferred mortgage lender, Michael Longman, has joined AnnieMac Home Mortgage. Longman has been a vital part of its brokerage, consistently providing top-tier mortgage support and forging a strong partnership with the team. His transition to AnnieMac brings even greater opportunities for collaboration with Align Right’s agents, enhancing their knowledge and involvement in the home buying and selling process. Align Right Realty is located at 11962 Balm Riverview Rd. in Riverview. Visit its website at https:// alignrightriverview.com/ for more information.

Z Beauty Academy & Spa O ers Training, Education & More

Commerce. With the combined knowledge, expertise and global strength of recruits and its sister brands, Advantage Technical, Hunter Hamilton and Digital People, you can rest easy knowing you have a partner with 55-plus years of sta ng expertise. Sta mark is located at 2422 James L. Redman Parkway in Plant City. For more information, visit its website at https://sta markgroup. com or call 813-703-1910.

Tampa Electric Granted National Award

Z Beauty Academy & Spa is owned by Liyakhat Khan and Cory Mohammed. Along with services such as microblading, ombre, eyelash extensions, facials, waxing, microdermabrasion and more, it also o ers advanced training in these procedures and incorporates techniques from other countries. Students are also taught how to open a business and market themselves. Z Beauty Academy & Spa is located at 1534 W. Brandon Blvd., Ste. 1, in Brandon. Visit its website at www.zbeautyspa.com or call 724-923-2889 to ﬁnd out more or make an appointment.

Sta mark Opens New O ce In Plant City

Sta mark, a member of RGF Sta ng and Recruit Group, a global HR titan, just celebrated opening o ces in Plant City with a ribbon-cutting from the Plant City Chamber of

Tampa Electric has won the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) Emergency Response Award for 2024, in recognition for the company’s outstanding work to quickly restore power after Hurricane Milton. EEI’s Emergency Response Awards recognize recovery and assistance e orts of electric companies after extreme weather or other natural events. The winners were chosen by a panel of judges following an international nomination process. Florida’s 2024 hurricane season was the deadliest and most destructive in more than a century.

Hurricane Milton caused widespread outages and significant devastation from fierce winds, windblown debris, flooding and heavy rain. Tampa Electric brought 6,000 line workers from as far away as Texas, Minnesota and Canada. Electricity was restored in a week.

Every weekday, from Monday to Friday, 200 residents in the Brandon area eagerly await a visit from a familiar face — the volunteer delivery drivers of Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels. For many, this brief encounter might be their only social interaction of the day. These volunteers don’t just deliver a hot meal; they also o er a moment of companionship before heading out to their next stop.

By Marie Gilmore

course, starch, vegetable, salad, bread and dessert. Every day, a speciﬁc entree — rotating between chicken, pork, beef and ﬁsh — ensures that clients enjoy variety throughout the week.

The program primarily serves elderly, homebound individuals who are unable to shop, prepare or cook for themselves. Volunteers ensure that these residents not only receive a nutritious, hot meal each day but also a little bit of human connection.

Operating since 1976, Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels is one of the area’s longest-standing charitable programs, with over 17 local churches banding together to make sure the service runs smoothly. Volunteers, drivers, cooks and prep teams all pitch in to make each delivery a success.

Dave ‘Mac’ MacEwen, president of the organization, has been a dedicated volunteer for the past eight years. After retiring from the Army, he decided to settle in the area and follow his passion for cooking by attending culinary school. He started to prepare gourmet meals for his family, and now prepares meals for his community too.

“There’s a lot of satisfaction in knowing that you’re helping the most vulnerable people in our community get a good meal,” MacEwen shared while prepping a meal at his home church, Presbyterian Church of Se ner. “We start cooking at 8:30 a.m., and by 11 a.m. the drivers are on the road delivering the meals.”

Each church involved in the program commits to cooking and delivering meals one day a week. A typical day sees up to 50 or more meals delivered, with about four churches participating in the program daily.

The meals are designed to be hearty and well-balanced. Each lunch includes a main

Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels is funded entirely through private donations and contributions from program recipients. No government funding is involved. Clients pay a small fee for their meals, and the remaining costs are covered by generous individuals and businesses who recognize the program’s value in the community. Before receiving services, clients undergo a screening process to conﬁrm their need. The program follows strict guidelines to ensure that only those who truly require assistance are served.

For more information or to refer someone in need, contact general coordinator Carol Shick at 813-404-1973. Those interested in volunteering or participating at a church can reach out to MacEwen at davidkmacewen@gmail.com. Visit www.brandonmealsonwheels.com.

Participating member churches include: First United Methodist Church of Se ner, Kings Avenue Baptist Church, Westminster Presbyterian Church, St. Andrews United Methodist Church, Apostles Lutheran Church, Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale, HighPoint Church of Brandon, Nativity Catholic Church, First Presbyterian Church of Brandon, Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church, Se ner Presbyterian Church, First Baptist Church of Brandon, St. Stephen Catholic Church, Brandon Christian Church, Rich Valley Church, New Hope Methodist

and