Osprey Observer Riverview/Apollo Beach April 2023

A HORSE’S TOUCH ATHLETES COMPETE IN SPECIAL OLYMPICS FOR EQUESTRIANISM

On February 24 and February 25, riders from A Horse’s Touch participated in the annual Florida Special Olympics held at the Bakas Equestrian Center in Tampa. Competing against individuals from across Pasco, Pinellas and Hillsborough counties, A Horse’s Touch was represented by four riders, all of whom placed in the trail and equitation events this year: 12-year-old twins, a 13-year-old female and a 19-year-old male.

Residing in the FishHawk and Riverview areas, each of these riders trained for one year under the founder of A Horse’s Touch, Mercedes McClellan, regardless of their level of experience in competition. Riders faced a series of challenges during the Special Olympics, such as having to walk over cavaletti poles and making their horse retreat three steps backward independently.

Both twins placed fourth in the trail event; in the equitation event, one was awarded third and the other fourth. The female placed fifth in both the trail and equitation events, and the male was awarded third in both the trail and equitation events. McClellan cites that witnessing their accomplishments and her riders’ pride as the most rewarding aspect.

“This is the greatest experience a coach can have — when you look over and see their parents tear up to watch their son or daughter win a ribbon,” said McClellan.

By Madeline Gardner

While the Florida Special Olympics was not hosted in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID-19, A Horse’s Touch has otherwise competed in these annual events since 2018. In 2019, McClellan’s students advanced to and competed at the state level in Ocala.

Seeking to secure and further these opportunities for motivated individuals, A Horse’s Touch welcomes those with varying conditions, such as attention deficit disorder (ADD) and cerebral palsy. Furthermore, foster children and those who have sufered previous abuse are also encouraged to become involved.

In addition to A Horse’s Touch, McClellan ofers other programs. This includes the Work Exchange (WE) program, an opportunity for students interested in the Bright Futures Scholarship Program to contribute help around the property in return for lessons on various topics, such as fundamental riding skills and learning to care for the horses. Horse camps for children, birthday parties and horse recitals are also featured activities of McClellan’s.

For more information about A Horse’s Touch, visit https://ahorsestouch.godaddysites.com/. Further details can be found by emailing mmbarn4@gmail.com or calling 813-992-0743. A Horse’s Touch is located at 12435 Cody Dr. in Wimauma.

SUMNER HIGH’S TEACHER OF THE YEAR TONY PIROTTA WINS NATIONAL AWARD FOR CIVICS PROGRAM

John F. Kennedy said, “One person can make a diference and everyone should try.” Tony Pirotta, Sumner High School’s teacher of the year, is making a daily diference, and his impact will be felt in our community for years to come.

Pirotta teaches civics at Sumner High School. He was one of three educators in the country to win the 2022 American Civic Education Teacher Award. Tony also sponsors Sumner’s student government association, coaches the girls’ soccer team, announces football games on Fridays in the fall and spearheads Hillsborough County Public Schools’ Ought to Be a Law program. The hours he puts in at school are nothing compared to his passion for integrity.

Sumner High School Principal Robert Nelson said Priotta’s impact reaches well beyond the classroom.

“Tony is an amazing civics teacher who connects with his students on a daily basis. He is an incredible asset to our school and community. I am blessed and honored to have him on my staf,” Nelson said.

Pirotta focuses on teaching students that there is no better time to have an impact than today.

“I want to help my students understand that they can make a diference now. I feel that many Americans feel as though they are just one person that is somewhat powerless to efect change in their community. I want to show my students that that is just not true. Our communities will

By Jane Owen

only become what we make them,” Pirotta said.

Sumner’s Student Government Association said Pirotta makes them desire to be engaged citizens.

Pirotta leads the Ought to Be a Law program, created in 2008, for Hillsborough County Schools. Ought to Be a Law is a student-led service-learning program that provides students an opportunity to work with the Florida State Legislature in drafting, lobbying and presenting real legislative bills.

“While I hope the students enjoy the learning experience Ought to Be a Law provides for them. I hope even more that they learn about being engaged and responsible citizens that help build better and stronger communities. I hope they learn about service and treating people with respect,” Pirotta said.

Without a doubt, Pirotta’s students in the Ought to Be a Law program and at Sumner High School learn service, respect and compassion. Our community is diferent and better because of Pirotta.

For more information or to read more about Ought to Be a Law, please https:// otbal.jimdofree.com/.

IN THIS ISSUE:

TAMPA ELECTRIC UPDATE PG 3

CARDEL CELEBRATES 50 PG 9

MARINE CORPS WORKSHOP PG 11

EYE ON BUSINESS PG 25

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE SEC 3

Te Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival has returned with a globally inspired culinary experience featuring 79 chef-crafted and mixologistcurated tastes inspired by cultures from around the world. Plus, 23 headlining acts from diferent genres will take the stage throughout 11 event weekends. Te festival runs now through Sunday, May 21.

Sumner High School Teacher of the Year Tony Pirotta was one of just three educators in the country to win the 2022 American Civic Education Teacher Award, which he won for his leadership in the Ought to Be a Law program.

Competition events challenge horse riders to use their motor skills in various tasks, such as retrieving mail from a mailbox or walking over cavaletti poles.

A Horse’s Touch was represented by four riders this year at the Florida Special Olympics competition.

To watch the Out To Be A Law video, scan the QR code.

MOFFITT AMBULATORY CENTER COMING TO SOUTH HILLSBOROUGH

The skyline of Apollo Beach will change in the coming months, as Tampa Electric will remove two of the three chimneys at Big Bend Power Station.

“Big Bend’s chimneys have been landmarks in Apollo Beach for decades,” said Allan Williams, director of Big Bend Power Station. “This will dramatically change the landscape.”

The Big Bend Modernization project repowered Big Bend Unit 1 with stateof-the-art combined-cycle technology and eliminated coal as that unit’s fuel. The project is part of the company’s strategy to reduce carbon, and it will improve the land, water and air emissions at Big Bend as part of TECO’s legacy of environmental stewardship.

With the modernization project complete, removing the chimneys is part of a five-year plant dismantlement project. Preliminary work has begun, and the most visible progress will begin in May. The removal of the chimneys will be complete in the autumn.

The chimneys were built in the 1970s and served Big Bend Units 1, 2 and 3 for about five decades. Units 1 and 2 began operating in 1970 and ’73, and they shared a chimney. Unit 3 began operating in ’76 and will retire in April. An older chimney was removed in 2016.

PLANT

The 500-foottall chimneys are made with an inner liner of brick and have an outer shell of poured reinforced concrete. They will be dismantled in pieces by a specialized team, beginning at the top. The large pieces of concrete will be removed from inside the structure.

Tampa Electric expects to recover 10 percent of construction costs through recycling and reselling some obsolete portions of the plant. Some metal will be recycled or sold as scrap; some equipment, such as pumps and motors, will be sold on the secondhand market. This is the first time Tampa Electric has recycled metals or components on such a large scale.

Big Bend’s Unit 4 remains in operation with natural gas or coal as its fuel, and its chimney will remain in use. In 2023, the company’s fuel mix is expected to be about 85 percent natural gas, nearly 10 percent solar and only 5 percent coal.

Tampa Electric, one of Florida’s largest investor-owned electric utilities, serves about 830,000 customers in West Central Florida. Tampa Electric is a subsidiary of Emera Inc., a geographically diverse energy and services company headquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. For more information, visit www.tampaelectric.com.

Moftt Cancer Center has acquired 9 acres in Ruskin, ofering access to thousands more patients in need of cancer treatment. The new facility will be located at the southeast intersection of East College Avenue and 27th Street South in Ruskin, less than a mile from Interstate 75.

Moftt plans to build a 75,000-squarefoot facility, with construction starting in early 2023 and to be completed by late 2024. The 2-story facility will employ cutting-edge technology that covers the gamut of cancer treatment options, including screening and diagnostics, radiation oncology, biopsies, medical oncology, infusion, clinical trials and a pharmacy. Moftt is expecting to serve nearly 9,000 patients by year four and create 150 jobs by year five.

Included in the new building will be 16 clinical examination rooms, 20 infusion bays (four private) and 10 blood draw labs. The radiation oncology department will ofer four exam rooms, along with two linear accelerator devices (LINACs) and a CT simulator to provide optimum setup accuracy for patients who will be receiving radiation therapy. A LINAC delivers high-energy X-rays or electrons to the region of the patient’s tumor.

The radiology department will have four

By Brian Bokor

CTs, four MRIs, two mammography machines, one DEXA machine to measure bone density and one X-ray. Additionally, nuclear medical treatment will be ofered at the facility with a nuclear camera, also referred to a gamma camera, available on-site. Patients are injected with a gamma-ray-emitting substance that accumulates in the organ of interest, and a special camera records the gamma rays. It difers from a CT scan, which is usually a series of X-rays taken from diferent directions that are then assembled into a three-dimensional model of the subject in a computer.

“Moftt is building incredible momentum to expand our footprint and bring cancer care closer to where our patients live,” said Dr. Patrick Hwu, president and CEO of Moffitt, when asked about the new Ruskin location.

With locations at the University of South Florida, Wesley Chapel, International Plaza and Fowler Avenue, a presence in Southeastern Hillsborough County will allow local residents the care provided by Moftt without the hassle associated with the trip to other campuses, as some patients require daily treatment.

Moftt is also developing 775 acres in Pasco County, the largest expansion in the cancer center’s history. The multiyear, multiphase project will include about 16 million square feet of research lab, general ofce and clinical building space.

For information, reach Steve Blanchard, Moftt’s public relations account coordinator, at steve.blanchard@moftt.org.

Two of Big Band Power Station’s chimneys will be removed by the autumn as part of a fve-year plant dismantlement project. Te chimney with the red stripe at the top will remain standing.

A detailed overview of Moftt Cancer Center’s new facility in Ruskin.

TAMPA ELECTRIC TO DISMANTLE TWO CHIMNEYS AT BIG BEND POWER

By Kathy L. Collins

Te

Center of Tampa

is reached

The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay provides 24-hour support to everyone in the community. Whether you are struggling with sexual assault or abuse, domestic violence, financial distress or some other emotional or situational distress, the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay connects people to hope, help and healing.

You can reach the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay simply by dialing 211.

Clara Reynolds, CEO of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, said, “We work with 1,700 agencies who provide 3,000 social services for residents of Hillsborough County. We will listen to the problem or situation and provide you with the resources that can help. If you have a specific need, we may even be able to provide you with a specific name and contact.”

If an agency receives government funding (city, county, state or federal), it is required to provide up-to-date contact information to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.

A good example of the help you can receive by dialing 211 would be this: If you have lost your job and are experiencing difculty paying your rent or even buying groceries to feed your family, the

Crisis Center of Tampa Bay can provide you with information about local resources, such as a food pantry like ECHO, or connect you with an organization that helps with financial difculties.

If you call 911, the fire department will come and assess the situation. If you need to be transported to the hospital, the fire department personnel will contact the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, which will then get you to the hospital.

Similarly, if law enforcement is called for a mental or psychiatric problem that requires involuntary support, law enforcement will call the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay to facilitate transport to a facility.

If someone experiences sexual assault, it is the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay that conducts the rape test and can provide trauma counseling.

There is also a new hotline: 988. This is specifically for those dealing with a mental crisis or suicide. The caller will be connected with a therapist for support.

The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay has been a part of the community for 50 years. It is your connection point in times of crisis.

Crisis

Bay

by dialing 211. It is your point of connection for any type of crisis you may be experiencing from sexual assault, to fnancial distress to an emotional or situational distress. It provides hope, help and healing.

CRISIS CENTER OF TAMPA BAY (211) PROVIDES HOPE, HELP AND HEALING TO TAMPA BAY RESIDENTS

EDGE POOLS IS TITLE SPONSOR OF WATER SMART TOTS ANNUAL GALA

Water Smart Tots (WST) is hosting its second annual charity gala to raise awareness for childhood drownings at the beginning of May. The “Every Child, Water Smart” Gala, to be hosted on Friday, May 5 at The Westin Harbour, located at 725 S. Harbour Island Blvd. in Tampa, will feature live music, dancing and dinner for guests.

All proceeds raised at the gala through ticket sales and community donations will benefit Water Smart Tots Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating childhood drownings in the Greater Tampa Bay area. The gala replaced the bingo fundraiser in order to include more people from the community.

“At the gala, we will be highlighting what WST has done all year, including scholarships and outreach programs,” said Glen Woo.

One of the scholarship winners is Cambria, who started in the Watch Me Swim program when she was 2 years old. This year, she is returning for more lessons. Cambria was awarded its level-two scholarship to support her family and her participation in the swim programs.

“[She is returning] for her refresher

By Lily Belcher

classes because as their bodies grow, newer skills need to be learned to prevent drowning,” said Woo.

This year, Water Smart Tots is hoping to host 150 people to raise around $30,000 for its programs.

Edge Pools is a platinum sponsor for this year’s gala in order to raise awareness for water safety. Through the partnership, Edge Pools hopes to reduce water-related injuries and deaths by supporting Water Smart Tots’ programs.

“Edge Pools supports Water Smart Tots Foundation because water safety is very important to us.

Pools provide entertainment and fun for the whole family, but if water safety is not learned or practiced, it can turn tragic for both the pool owner and the families of all involved,” said Edge Pools owner Heidi Edgerton.

The black-tie optional event will start at 6 p.m., with drinks, hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction preceding dinner.

Tickets for the event cost $150 per person and full tables of 10 seats costs $1,100. Sponsorships are still available from $250-$2,500.

For more information on Water Smart Tots or to purchase tickets for the gala, visit https://www.watersmarttots.org/.

DAMON C. GLISSON, ATTORNEY-AT-LAW

The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely on advertisement. Before you decide, ask us to send you FREE written information about our qualifications and experience.

Cambria, 23 months old, just completed her self-rescue swim lessons at Watch Me Swim in Riverview through a scholarship received by Water Smart Tots Foundation.

SUPERINTENDENT ADDISON DAVIS SELECTED FOR CHIEFS FOR CHANGE Staf Report

Hillsborough County Public Schools is pleased to announce Superintendent Addison Davis has been selected to join the Chiefs for Change network. Davis joins two other superintendents who are now part of the bipartisan network of district and state education leaders, Jill Baker, superintendent of Long Beach Unified School District in California, and Lisa Herring, superintendent of Atlanta Public Schools in Georgia.

“We are pleased to welcome these veteran educators to our network — they are responsible for overseeing school systems in large, diverse communities and collectively impact more than 338,000 students,” said Chiefs for Change Board Chair and Chicago Public Schools CEO Pedro Martinez. “These leaders have a deep understanding of the challenges that children and families face and are carrying out important work to boost academic achievement and support students’ well-being. I look forward to working with them and learning more about their strategies.”

Members of Chiefs for Change are united around a core set of beliefs. Specifically, they believe that all children must have: a safe and welcoming school, access to an excellent education, fully prepared teachers with the support they need to do their jobs well, high-quality instructional materials and reliable and a f ordable pathways to college and

meaningful careers.

The superintendents joining membership today have worked to increase the number of high-performing schools and reduce the number of underperforming schools. They have also spearheaded e f orts to expand access to dual-enrollment classes, giving students opportunities to take advanced coursework and earn their associate degree while still in high school. In addition, they have implemented career and technical education programming that is intended to align with the needs of regional employers and lead to good jobs in growing fields.

“It is a privilege and honor to be recognized in this manner and contribute to strengthening the education industry on a national scale. I look forward to learning from my colleagues in the network and creating innovative solutions for all learners as we move forward in the 21st century,” said Davis.

With these new chiefs, the network has 51 members, 42 of whom are actively serving as superintendents or chiefs.

Chiefs for Change is a bipartisan network of diverse school superintendents and state education leaders. The network supports members and provides technical assistance; advocates for the adoption of e f ective policies and practices; and develops the next generation of bold, student-focused superintendents.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fctitious name of Servpro of Apollo Beach West, Gibsonton DBA BJNH, Inc. located at 6528 Hwy 301 South Ste. 109, in Hillsborough County, in the City of Riverview, Florida, 33578, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

Dated at Valrico, FL this 1st Day of April 2023

Pest Control

service@repcopest.com

FINANCIAL FOCUS SHOULD INVESTORS ‘GO IT ALONE’?

If you’re going to enjoy a comfortable retirement, you should know, among other things, how much money you’ll need. And you may have a much better chance of knowing this if you get some professional help.

Consider these fndings from a 2021 study by Dalbar, a fnancial services market research frm:

• Investors who worked with a fnancial advisor were three times more likely to estimate what they would have saved at retirement than “do-it-yourself” investors.

• More than two-thirds of investors with a fnancial advisor were satisfed with the amount they would have saved at retirement, compared to about 27% of the do-it-yourselfers.

How do fnancial professionals help their clients in these ways?

First, consider the issue of determining how much money will be needed for retirement. It’s not always easy for individuals to estimate this amount. But fnancial professionals can help clients like you arrive at this fgure by exploring your hopes and goals. How long do you plan to work? What kind of lifestyle do you anticipate enjoying in retirement? Where would you like to live? How much would you like to travel? Are you open to pursuing earned income opportunities, such as consulting or working part time?

Next comes the other key question: How much money will be available for retirement? This big question leads to many others: How much do you need to save and invest each year until you retire? About what sort of investment return will you need to reach your retirement income goals? What level of risk are you willing to take to achieve that return? What is the role of other

income sources such as Social Security or any pensions you might have?

Having a fnancial professional help you gain a clear idea of your retirement income picture can certainly be reassuring. But there may be other reasons why “going it alone” as an investor might not be desirable.

For example, when the fnancial markets are down, as was the case for much of 2022, some investors make decisions based on short-term volatility, such as selling investments to “cut their losses,” even if these same investments still have solid business fundamentals and good prospects for growth. But if you work with a fnancial professional, you might decide to stick with these investments, especially if they’re still appropriate for your long-term strategy. Other times, of course, the advice may be diferent — but it will always be advice based on your goals, needs and time horizon.

Furthermore, if you’re investing on your own, you may always be measuring your results against the major market indexes, such as the S&P 500 or the Dow Jones Industrial Average. But in reality, your portfolio should contain a wide range of investments, some of which aren’t contained in these indexes, so you might not be assessing your performance appropriately. A fnancial professional can help you develop your own, more meaningful benchmarks that can show the progress you’re actually making toward your goals.

In some areas of life, going it alone can be exciting — but when it comes to investing for your future, you may beneft from some company on the journey.

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

edwardjones.com/adam-benabram

COMMUNITY ASKED TO SHARE VISION FOR FUTURE OF UNINCORPORATED HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY WITH SURVEY

With its enduring natural beauty, unique charm, and diversity, Unincorporated Hillsborough County is attracting national attention and unprecedented growth, both regionally and locally, as we expect an additional 350,000 people and 107,000 jobs by 2045. While the success of the county brings many benefits to our communities, its growth also creates a series of challenges for current and future residents, businesses and visitors.

Those who live, work or play in unincorporated Hillsborough County are invited to provide their vision for the future in a brief interactive online survey. Public comments will be used to update the Future Land Use (FLU) Section of the Unincorporated Hillsborough County Comprehensive Plan. This update will serve as a guide to how and where we will grow over the next 20-plus years. The Comprehensive Plan touches nearly every facet of our lives — where we live and work, what transportation choices we have, opportunities for recreation and how to protect our natural assets, neighborhood character and vital resources.

FLU is a specific section within the plan that describes the future land use map that outlines allowable density or intensity for a particular area. It’s a community’s blueprint for growth which outlines how the land can be used to facilitate the community’s vision.

“We hear a lot about the rapid growth occurring throughout our community from unincorporated county residents,” said Melissa Zornitta, FAICP. “This is an opportunity to weigh in on our future plans — we really want to hear from everyone.”

Community input is essential to accurately reflect the desires of those who live in Unincorporated Hillsborough County. The survey will be open through Sunday, April 30 and is available in both English and Spanish. Those who complete the survey and provide their email and home zip code will be eligible for a drawing for one of five $100 Publix gift cards.

The Hillsborough County City-County Planning Commission has also scheduled the first public meeting on Tuesday, April 25 at 6 p.m., which will cover the goals and discuss upcoming potential changes to the Future Land Use Section. Please register at https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/7041797360852685917. There will be additional opportunities for the public to weigh in at virtual and in-person community meetings this spring and summer, and at meetings of the planning commission and board of county commissioners.

Visit https://planhillsborough.org/hclanduse/. To view the current Comprehensive Plan for Unincorporated Hillsborough County, visit bit.ly/hccompplan.

Same Day Appointments Available

Saint Anne Catholic Church

Saint Anne Catholic Church

Vigil

Saint Anne Catholic Church ~Masses~

Sunday8

Monday-Friday

Wednesday &

MASSES

Vigil.....................................................................Saturday 4:30 p.m.

Sunday........................ 8 a.m., 10 a.m. & 5 p.m. (12 p.m. Spanish)

Monday - Friday......................................................................8 a.m.

Wednesday............................7 p.m. Jueves.........................7 p.m.

Recorded Masses can be viewed on the St. Anne website (SaintAnneRuskin.org) and Facebook page.

Reconciliation Tue. at 8:30am, Thurs. at 6pm, Sat. at 3:15pm and By Appointment.

Te Masses will be streamed and uploaded to the St. Anne website (SaintAnneRuskin.org) and Facebook page.

Te church will be open weekdays for private prayer between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Reconciliation Tues. at 8:30 a.m., Tur. at 6 p.m., Sat. at 3:15 p.m. and by appointment. For more information, please check the St. Anne website.

For more information, please check the St. Anne website. Registration is now open for the 2021-2022 Faith Formation year. Please call the ofce for more information.

Te frst page of the survey for the unincorporated Hillsborough County Future Land Use update. It is open until Sunday, April 30.

SUN

CITY CENTER AUDUBON CLUB MONITORS NEST BOXES TO HELP SAVE LOCAL BLUEBIRDS

The Sun City Center Audubon Club is preparing for its eighth summer of the Bluebird Project, an initiative started to save the bluebird population in the area.

Each summer, five teams monitor 25 bluebird boxes for sparrow invasions, eggs and fledglings. The Audubon Club averages 100-150 fledglings from the boxes each year. Their eforts have stabilized the local bluebird population.

“We knew [bluebirds] were around, and they are here year-round. They don’t just nest here. They don’t migrate. They’re here year-round. So, we decided to do this project. One of our members, Clara Clancy, suggested we contact the Boy Scouts and see if an Eagle Scout wanted to do it, so that’s how it got started originally,” said Conservation Chair Melanie Higgins. Higgins was looking for a way to save the bluebird population and reached out to local Eagle Scouts. In 2015, they constructed 20 boxes, and they added five more in the following years.

Bluebirds are considered secondary cavity nesters, meaning they nest in tree holes made by woodpeckers or other animals. However, residents tend to cut down these trees that have cavities in them because they are afraid the trees will fall on their house.

“That’s why they were losing their habitat,

CARDEL HOMES CELEBRATES 50TH YEAR IN BUSINESS

By Lily Belcher

but they adapted very well to nest boxes. So, since the 1960s, since people have been installing bluebird nest boxes, the population has increased and become stable,” said Higgins.

The trail of bluebird boxes was dedicated to longtime Audubon Club members Ed and Clara Clancy in February. With the help of a donation from their family, the Audubon Club was able to replace all the boxes to improve the nesting sites for the bluebirds.

Higgins urges community members to plant native trees, grasses and plants to support the local habitat of birds, butterflies and other native animals.

The Audubon Club was started to raise awareness and support for wildlife and the environment. The organization hosts monthly meetings from October through April to discuss conservation eforts and threats to the environment. Over 200 members participate in meetings, field trips and guest speaker presentations.

The last meeting of the season will take place on Monday, April 17 at 1:45 pm. Doors will open at 1 pm. Halle Goldstein from Audubon Florida will present the club’s work toward natural climate solutions.

For more information on the Audubon Club, visit www.sccaudubonclub.com or https://eagleaudubonflorida.org/.

As an international new home builder with operations in Florida, Colorado, Alberta and Ontario, Cardel Homes marks its 50th year in business.

When asked about this landmark anniversary, Greg Graham, chief operating ofcer, said, “What an amazing accomplishment for a privately held, family-owned and operated company. With many unforgettable memories and such a long history, Cardel has earned a reputation among customers, developers and trades as a reliable long-term partner. Our charitable arm, Cardel Foundations, has supported a wide range of valuable initiatives that strengthen our communities, and community has stood at the forefront of Cardel’s vision since the construction of our very first home back in 1973.”

Caryl and Del Ockey were school teachers before they decided to build homes. Te name was derived from the frst 3 letters of their frst names.

Cardel is a veteran in the residential development industry and now operates as an integrated homebuilder and land developer in four regions, ofering a wide range of products, including single-family homes, townhomes, condos and resort properties. Its experience and in-depth knowledge of residential projects and willingness to work collaboratively with others to meet common goals have led to success.

Ryan Ockey, chief executive ofcer, shared these thoughts on Cardel’s success: “We have been providing amazing homes for our customers for many years with fantastic

designs, superior quality and responsive customer service. Many of our loyal trade and supplier partners and our hardworking staf have been with us along the way, and we thank them all for helping us reach this historic milestone.”

Despite its growth over the last half a century, Cardel retains the best attributes of a privately held company: quick reflexes, a tight-knit management team and an ironclad dedication to quality and community.

“What an amazing journey it has been, starting from a humble beginning in our beloved Calgary and expanding to cover three corners and the middle of North America,” commented Del and Caryl Ockey, the founders of Cardel Homes. “We never dreamed of the good times, the hard times, the difculties and the successes those years would bring. Thanks for the memories and all the wonderful people that have made these years a reality: the best trades imaginable, the loyal associates, especially our staf and our amazing family. They are the reason we have these 50 years to celebrate.”

The Florida ofce of Cardel Homes is located at 3160 S. Falkenburg Rd. in Riverview. For information about Cardel Homes, its process or its communities, visit www. cardelhomes.com. For local communities, visit www.cardelhomes.com/tampa/.

Te bluebird population has been threatened in the past, but the Bluebird project ofers new habitats for nestlings.

Te Audubon Club averages 100-150 bluebirds in its boxes each year.

Local resident, Kent Hollman Regional President at Cardel Homes for over 26 years.

MARY & MARTHA HOUSE HELPS WOMEN AND FAMILIES ESCAPE DOMESTIC ABUSE AND HOMELESSNESS

When someone is being abused, it can be difcult for the victim to leave the abuser for a myriad of reasons, including the risk of homelessness. However, there are places which will lend a caring and giving hand, such as Mary & Martha House.

Te Mary & Martha House provides emergency shelter for women and children who are escaping abuse or facing homelessness. Its shelters provide a safe space for them while they gain employment and successfully transition to permanent housing.

Mary & Martha House’s shelters provide a safe haven for victims to escape abuse and begin recovery and are designed to be like home with each family having their own space. Its goal is to provide emergency shelter, transitional housing and support services to victims of domestic violence as well as homeless women and their children so that they may gain employment and successfully transition into permanent housing.

Bill Chini, executive director of Mary & Martha House, said, “We provide shelter during their transition. Our clients are provided a case manager who works with them, one-on-one, to identify their own personal barriers and how to overcome them. We ofer a program called Break The Cycle, which includes five areas of instruction for the women to assist them and provide growth in key areas on the road to independence. The five areas are Financial Literacy, Nutritional Guidance, Female Empowerment, Parenting Skills and Spiritual Guidance.”

Chini added, “Our intake process starts

APOLLO BEACH WOMAN’S CLUB HONORS DAVIS AT 2023 WOMAN’S ADVANCEMENT LUNCHEON

By Kathy L. Collins

with a phone call to our ofce at [813645-7874] or fill out an online intake form, which can be found at https://marymarthahouse.org/ intake-form/. The intake specialist drills down into how they need assistance, with or without our organization. Our intake specialist will then work with the individual to ensure they are receiving the best care possible.”

Chini said, “We are proud to be the catalyst in our fight against domestic violence and homelessness, and that our community has entrusted us for over 40 years and continues to support our mission to help women and families who are desperately in need of assistance and guidance.”

Mary & Martha House is funded through multiple channels, including some county funding. Chini said, “Our Mary & Martha House Fashion and Home Goods Thrift Store (located behind our ofces) generates revenue for the mission thanks to the wonderful people who donate gently used items and the wonderful volunteers who run the store. However, most of our funding comes from the community by way of unrestricted donations/grants, fundraising events and individuals who want to help us make a diference.”

The ofce and thrift store are located at 312 S. U.S. Hwy. 301 in Ruskin.

The Apollo Beach Woman’s Club held its annual Woman’s Advancement Luncheon on March 18 in the Del Webb Southshore Falls Ballroom in Apollo Beach. At this event, Melanie Davis, executive director of the SouthShore Chamber of Commerce, was honored.

Claudia Gassett, chairperson of the event and a past president of the Apollo Beach Woman’s Club, said, “This year, we chose Melanie Davis to be our honoree. Our inspiration was her passion for connecting people in need to the resources and people that can help them. Starting a business in this area can be hard work, and the chamber of commerce is there to help you. She connects the businesses together and creates networking to help all of them create a sense of pride and support. In 2017, Melanie founded Helping Hands of SouthShore, which tells the stories of people in our community with a need. Melanie brings together people to help fulfill that need.”

Gassett added, “Melanie is a true leader with a very big heart. She was awarded a crystal trophy with the words engraved: ‘Melanie Davis Inspirational Woman Award. Your willingness to always go the extra mile has made a diference in our lives. Apollo Beach Woman’s Club March

By Kathy L. Collins

18th, 2023.’”

In 2022, the club began to recognize a Woman of Inspiration. The person helps fulfil the club’s objective of advancement of womankind. That year, the club gave two scholarships to women who went back to school to further their careers and improve their lives.

This year’s scholarship winner is Lea Manningham. She was awarded $2,000 to continue her degree in ministry. Gassett explained, “Lea has a nonprofit organization called Girls of the World here in Apollo Beach. She provides life skills and mentoring for young girls. These young girls get help with school and confidence building so that they can achieve their dreams. Lea has 29 hours left in completing her ministry degree. She encourages all her girls to attend school and go to college.”

The Apollo Beach Woman’s Club began in 1959. The club was organized exclusively for educational and charitable purposes.

It holds monthly luncheon meetings at the Moose Lodge in Ruskin on the second Wednesday of the month from 12 Noon-2 p.m. If interested in joining, please contact Liz Pedersen at kenlizpedersen@msn.com or 813-777-8215. You can also visit www. apollobeachwomansclub.com.

Melanie Davis (left) was honored for her work in the SouthShore area at the annual Woman’s Advancement Luncheon hosted by the Apollo Beach Woman’s Club, and Lea Manningham was awarded a Woman of Inspiration scholarship.

HILLSBOROUGH LEADS STATE IN LOCAL PRESERVATION EFFORTS

By Brian Bokor

volunteer committees involved in every key aspect of the program.

Ofcially renamed in 2014 for former county commissioner and lifelong advocate for environmental protection Jan K. Platt (19782002), the ELAPP history project was funded by a generous donation from Gus Muench, a commercial crabber for 25 years, driving force behind the creation of the Cockroach Bay Users Group and the president of the Little Manatee Preservation Committee.

RESIDENTS IN SOUTHSHORE CAN GET FOOD ASSISTANCE FROM OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE

By Kathy L. Collins

Development fueled by population growth has been an ongoing issue for the past few years with Hillsborough County estimated to be home to over 1.5 million residents, a head count that is higher than 12 states and the largest in Florida outside of Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties.

Lost in all this is the fact that “Hillsborough County has the largest local preservation program in the state of Florida. Other counties may have more land, but a majority of that land is federal. When it comes to local dollars, no other county comes close to Hillsborough. And that’s all thanks to our citizens voting to fund the program three times,” explained Ross B. Dickerson, division manager of Environmental Lands Management.

The program he speaks of is the Jan K. Platt Environmental Lands Acquisition and Protection Program (ELAPP). Beginning as a local response to rapid development and habitat loss, ELAPP continues to preserve wildlife corridors in this highly urbanized region.

ELAPP was born in 1987 as referendum county voters overwhelmingly chose to dedicate funding to purchase environmentally sensitive lands. The program acquires parcels only from willing sellers and is voluntary and nonregulatory. Anyone can nominate a property for ELAPP consideration, which triggers a review by county staf and the public ELAPP committee. Voters chose to expand the program in 1990, and again in 2008. It is a citizen-based program with

ELAPP has protected 64,530 acres of rare and important habitat in Hillsborough County. Many of our county’s 32 nature preserves were purchased in collaboration with other agencies, leveraging nearly one-third of the funds for acquisition from non-ELAPP sources and major restoration eforts with partners such as the Southwest Florida Water Management District. Information on all 32 can be found by visiting www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/residents/ recreation-and-culture/parks/find-a-park.

Additionally, Dickerson explained how the ELAPP program has provided unincorporated Hillsborough County residents with a 25 percent saving on their flood insurance premiums. “The Community Rating System (CRS) is a voluntary incentive program under FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program that rewards communities who implement floodplain management activities beyond the minimum federal requirements with discounts to flood insurance premiums for their residents,” said Dickerson.

Currently, unincorporated Hillsborough County is a Class 5 community, which corresponds to a 25 percent discount for all residents on their flood insurance premiums. This equates to approximately $5.9 million annually. One of the creditable activities under the CRS program is ‘Open Space Preservation.’ ELAPP and associated preserved lands are integral in obtaining meaningful credit for us in this activity and help us in achieving our overall rating of Class 5.

For additional information, visit www. hillsboroughcounty.org/en/residents/recreation-and-culture/conservation/elapp or email dickersonr@hillsboroughcounty.org.

Care partners of those with any type of memory loss, whether family, friends or professionals, need to be equipped with the knowledge to best support their loved one. Gain this knowledge at our NEW hybrid support groups being held via Zoom and in person at Tessera of Brandon.

Hybrid Dementia and Alzheimer’s Support Groups

Food insecurity is a growing problem, especially among populations that are traditionally not affected by it. Today, the need is great, so food pantries such as Our Lady of Guadalupe in Wimauma serve an ever-greater need.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Food Pantry provides much-needed food to residents living in Sun City Center, Wimauma, Balm, Ruskin, Riverview, Apollo Beach or Gibsonton. The food is provided every Saturday from 7:3010:30 a.m. Clients receive a box containing bread, produce, meat, dairy items (including milk) and paper products.

Our Lady of Guadalupe currently serves approximately 350 families per week. It simply requires some type of identification which demonstrates that the individual and/or family live within one of the cities it serves. However, Our Lady of Guadalupe never turns anyone away and will provide a bag of food.

Once an individual or family is registered, they are given either a pink or yellow card, which thereafter is presented to show that residency has been verified. Families can come every other week to receive food assistance. If someone comes

on an of day because they have a dire need, they are given a bag of food.

Our Lady of Guadalupe uses a drivethrough method for food distribution. Clients stay in their car as they receive their food assistance.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Food Pantry is an all-volunteer organization. It receives donations on Tuesday and Friday from 8 a.m.-12 Noon. The volunteers are on-site on Saturdays from 6:30-11 a.m. Its volunteers are older, having 50 in their 80s and two in their 90s, and it is always in need of more volunteers.

Tom Bullaro, who has been with the food pantry for 22 years and has been its director for 18 of those years, said, “We are thankful to all of the stores that donate. They help us to keep going.”

Our Lady of Guadalupe gets food from Feeding Tampa Bay and picks up donations from stores like Aldi. It has three refrigerated trucks and an impressive food storage area complete with walk-in refrigerators.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Food Pantry is located at 16650 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Wimauma. For more information, visit www.ourladyspantry.com.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Food Pantry ofers food for those in need who live in Sun City Center, Wimauma, Balm, Ruskin, Riverview, Apollo Beach or Gibsonton. Te food pantry is run by volunteer manager Kim Kordalski (left), and director Tom Bullaro.

MARINE CORPS EDUCATORS WORKSHOP GIVES INSIDE LOOK AT BOOT CAMP

By Marie Gilmore

Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a U.S. Marine?

How physically taxing, mentally demanding and hard is it to get into the Marines these days? Me too, and after spending a week at the Parris Island Marine Corps boot camp, I can now see why Marines are considered one of the most elite military forces.

My trip was courtesy of the U.S. Marine Corps who have been hosting educators for annual Educators Workshops for more than 20 years. These behind-the-scenes, four-day tours are to give educators an idea of what training, skills and opportunities are provided for students in the U.S. Marine Corps and in branches of the military.

For our workshop in February, I joined 31 Florida, Georgia and North Carolina-based educators, school counselors, administrators and ROTC instructors to get a taste of Parris Island.

From stepping on the iconic yellow bootprints, being assigned a pair of Marine Corps drill instructors and spending the week as recruits, we also had an inside look at the training and skills imparted in our recruits who, after 13 weeks, become full-fledged Marines at the end of the 54-hour crucible and then graduate two weeks later as U.S. Marines. After 10 days of leave, the new Marines head to combat training school and, depending

upon their military occupational specialty (MOS), they then head to their first assignment.

Debbie Williams is an art and physical education teacher from Pivot Charter School in Riverview who had the opportunity to attend the workshop.

“This experience is like living a dream, as I almost joined the military,” she described. “I’m so excited to take this experience and share it with my students as they prepare to take the next step after high school.”

Throughout the four-day experience, Williams and 30 additional members of the teacher unit learned to march in formation, eat in the mess hall, rappel down the tower, walk through the gas chamber, do obstacle and challenge courses, meet with recruits at all diferent stages of their boot camp experience and even shoot M16 rifles on the range. In addition, educators were able to visit the

nearby U.S. Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, where they saw fighter jets and talked to Marine Corp pilots.

Emma Schindler, calculus teacher at Pivot Charter School in Riverview, loved every minute of the workshop, and she said, “I will take this experience to become a better teacher and add some of the skills to my education strategy for my students.”

During the workshop, educators were put through a training regime but were also given access to base command. During a briefing with Brig. Gen. Walker M. Field, the depot’s commanding general, he encouraged the educators: “You have an opportunity to make a diference in our future generations.

You are here to demystify recruiting. You will learn how we make Marines and transform civilians and to give you the idea of the art of the possible and what you can do with your career.”

Twelve times each year, the Marine Corps invites high school educators and coaches from the Eastern region of the U.S. to an Educators Workshop at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina. Educators Workshop is a program that provides attendees the oncein-a-lifetime opportunity to experience Marine Corps boot camp firsthand. Highlights include discussions with recruits and Marines of various ranks, ranging from newly graduated privates to the commanding general. Attendees will also participate in many of the training events recruits go through, including the rifle range, rappel tower, gas chamber, obstacle courses, leadership and teamwork exercises, Family Day, graduation and time with the world-renowned Marine Corps drill instructors.

Those eligible to attend are current high school educators, coaches, administrators or members of the community who can demonstrate significant mentorship of young men and women through an organization.

For more information on the next workshop opportunity, call or email Sgt. Erin Morejon, marketing and communication representative for Marine Corps Recruiting Station Tampa. She can be reached by phone directly at 407-375-2509 or by email at erin. morejon@marines.usmc.mil.

Each year, the Marine Corps invites high school educators and coaches to an Educators Workshop at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina.

We PROMISE to give you the BEST real estate experience, but don’t take our word for it; Here’s what our clients have to say…

Tony, Craig and the entire team did an awesome job getting our home sold. We cannot thank them enough for their hard work and constant communication throughout this process. Their service and professionalism was beyond our expectations. Great job everyone!

- Luisa Self

Everyone was very knowledgeable and always kept us up to date throughout the process leading up to closing on our new house. Very professional group!

- Melanie Jonas

I had another realtor for 7 months and nothing. I had Craig 2 days and my house sold. They were amazing.

- Ginette Hollenbaugh

This was the fastest, easiest, most stress free experience of selling a home I ever experienced with the Baroni team walking along side of you every step of the way which took absolutely no time at all from start to fnish in a very professional setting from the entire staf with zero headaches.

- Scott Thomas

Great group of people to work with!!! Highly recommended.

- Wilfredo Domenech

Was a great experience. They checked in with us during our move from CO to make sure we didn’t need anything in the process. We didn’t start looking for an house until 5 months later but they never stop checking on us.

- Cecil Kegans

ANN MARIE VAUGHAN OFFERS PERSONAL APPROACH AS TOP REAL ESTATE AGENT

Ann Marie Vaughan began 2023 having completed 15 years with RE/MAX, during which she has become one of the company’s top agents in the area she and her family have lived for more than 30 years.

The Riverview resident’s sales volume has ranked her in the RE/MAX Florida Top 20 and as Tampa Bay’s #1 individual agent twice in recent years. Her overall production has won her the RE/MAX Lifetime Achievement Award and induction into the RE/MAX Hall of Fame.

Vaughan closes 75 to 100 sales every year without a team of assisting agents. She explains: “Teams work well for some Realtors, and some clients are just fine not working directly with the ‘name’ agent. But I’ve found I really prefer working one-on-one, the ‘hire me, get me’ approach.”

For support with the countless tasks that come with her level of sales, she relies on her husband and business partner, John Vaughan, and their longtime friend turned administrative associate, Regina Buchanan. Those two also handle about two dozen rental homes managed each year for friends and former sales clients.

Vaughan also appreciates the comprehensive backing of her brokerage, RE/MAX Alliance Group, which covers much of West Central Florida and is the largest RE/MAX

RIVERVIEW WOMAN’S

VOLUNTEER FAIR IS A SUCCESS AT RIVERVIEW HIGH SCHOOL

Staf Report

franchise in the U.S. Southeast.

“We have so many more resources to help clients compared to when I started in real estate in my 20s with a little ofce on the coast of Connecticut, where I grew up,” she says. “I worked in a bigger ofce when I moved to Washington, DC, and got married. Then we moved to Florida for my husband’s career, and I left real estate for quite a few years to raise 4 kids. I came back to it in 2002 with Prudential, then moved to RE/MAX in 2008.”

The realty market was in trouble in 2008, but Vaughan points out people’s housing needs persist regardless of economic conditions.

“New jobs, growing families, aging parents, marriages and divorces -- all of these things put people in a position where they need good advice,” she says.

Too often, in her opinion, real estate television shows and motivational speakers emphasize earning money when they should be focused on earning trust. Help clients “move from Point A to Point B,” she likes to say, “and everyone ends up OK.”

For more information, email annmarievaughan@verizon.net or call / text her at 813-748-4536.

The Riverview Woman’s Club (RWC) hosted its first Volunteer Opportunity Fair on March 7 at Riverview High School. This event was made possible due to the hard work and dedication of Ann Grifn, Riverview High School guidance counselor, and Melissa Canfield, board member of Riverview Woman’s Club.

Canfield stated, “The RWC wants to help students connect with local members of our community who are in need of student volunteers. So many times, students have the desire to help, but they just don’t know where to go and who to contact. Volunteer Opportunity Fairs like this one can solve that issue. Also, our goal is to incorporate more nonprofits in the future to give the students a wide variety of options of where they can volunteer.”

In order to provide the most interaction with the students, it was determined that setting up in the cafeteria would be best, as students would have time to eat and still learn about the nonprofits represented. Eight nonprofit organizations were able to attend, which included the Impact Program, Mary & Martha House, Buddy Cruises, Experience Autism Alliance, High 5 Inc., Rotary of FishHawk-Riverview, You Matter to Me - Lithia, FL and Angel Foundation FL. Each student had

an opportunity to learn about each organization and how they could help their local community, as well as earn Bright Futures volunteer hours.

Students were given ‘passports’ to complete for each nonprofit to sign after they visited a booth to learn more about an organization. As an incentive, Chick-fil-A of Riverview donated over 250 free Chick-fil-A sandwich cards for those students who completed a visit to each nonprofit in attendance.

Grifn was pleased with the students’ response to the fair, and plans are in the works with the Riverview Woman’s Club to bring in additional nonprofits in the fall.

“This was a great first step in bringing students and nonprofits directly together to learn how they can help each other. This would be wonderful for our seniors to attend in the fall term as well so they had plenty of time to complete their Bright Future Hours prior to graduation. We look forward to working with the Riverview Woman’s Club again,” said Grifn. Riverview High School is located at 11311 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. Visit www.hillsboroughschools.org/riverviewhs for more information on the school. For more information about the Riverview Woman’s Club, visit www.riverviewwomansclub.org.

Ann Marie Vaughan ofers a personal experience for her RE/ MAX clients.

Riverview Woman’s Club members along with eight volunteer organizations worked together to make the volunteer fair a success.

RIVERVIEW NATIVE SERVES WITH U.S. NAVY HELICOPTER SQUADRON TO SUPPORT MARITIME MISSIONS AROUND THE GLOBE

By Alvin Plexico, Navy O fce of Community Outreach

SENIOR KRISTEN SAMUELS

WINS LENNARD HIGH SCHOOL’S JROTC CADET OF THE YEAR

By Madeline Gardner

Petty Ofcer 1st Class Diana Bautista, a Riverview native, serves with Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 71, operating out of San Diego, California. The squadron’s primary mission is to conduct sea control operations in open-ocean and coastal environments. This includes hunting for submarines, searching for surface targets over the horizon and conducting search and rescue operations.

Bautista, a 2014 Richard C. Spoto High School graduate, joined the Navy eight years ago.

“I joined the Navy because I wanted to do something with my life that served a higher purpose,” said Bautista. “I was also interested in the financial benefits and assistance in earning a college degree.”

Skills and values learned in the Navy are similar to those Bautista found living and attending school in Riverview. “I learned the importance of discipline,” said Bautista. “I was in Navy Junior ROTC in high school, and that helped when I joined the military.”

Today, Bautista serves with the helicopter squadron that flies the U.S. Navy’s MH60R Seahawk helicopters. The MH-60R is a twin-engine helicopter used for anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, drug

interdiction, anti-ship warfare, cargo lift and special operations.

With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy ofcials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to trained sailors and a strong Navy.

“Our mission remains timeless — to provide our fellow citizens with nothing less than the very best Navy: fully combat-ready at all times, focused on warfighting excellence and committed to superior leadership at every single level,” said Adm. Mike Gilday, chief of naval operations. “This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy.”

As Bautista and other sailors continue to perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.

“I get to protect my country while earning benefits that help me with my goals in life,” said Bautista.

Bautista is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“I’d like to thank Master Chief Nadine Greene and Chief Roberts,” added Bautista. “They were my ROTC instructors in high school.”

On March 29, senior Cadet Kristen Samuels received the Bronze American Eagle Award after being recognized as Lennard High School’s JROTC Cadet of the Year. The ceremony was held in the high school’s auditorium from 5:30-7 p.m. and included the presence of visiting civic organizations such as the American Legion and the Vietnam Veterans of America, who selected cadets to receive their awards for the 2022-23 school year.

“Kristen is an outstanding cadet worthy of the title ‘2022-23 Longhorn Cadet of the Year,’ as she is an incredible young lady with the requisite skills, values and aptitude to succeed at any institutional level, as well as in life,” said LTC (R) David Dietz, Lennard High School’s senior Army instructor.

To receive this award, Samuels had to maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA and remain in good standing with both her JROTC cadre and the Longhorn Battalion. Beyond embodying honor and integrity, she also had to hold a leadership position.

Participating in Lennard’s JROTC program for all four years of high school, Samuels was the Battalion Commander for both her junior and senior years. This is the highest position a Cadet can attain in the JROTC program.

Tasked with directing the cadet staf and its four companies of cadets, Samuels is responsible for determining which

cadets are eligible to partake in extracurricular and community support activities upon an evaluation of their grades and standing within the Longhorn Battalion. By maintaining clear communication with the company commanders and ensuring all cadets remain informed, she assists in maintaining the battalion’s order and function.

Samuels was also recognized with the Daughters of the American Revolution Award for her service, patriotism, and courage. Additionally, she also received the Lennard Teachers Commendation Award, which signifies a cadet’s good standing with any teacher concerning grades, behavior, and timeliness.

After graduation, Samuels intends to attend the University of South Florida (USF). While working towards earning a bachelor’s degree in criminology, she also plans to enter the USF ROTC program, and later commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. Samuels cited that opportunities through JROTC have encouraged her to grow and prepare for her future.

“JROTC has been a motivational factor in my life, and I’ve worked hard in this program to learn new skills, especially leadership, and exceed my abilities,” said Samuels. “Being Cadet of the Year is an absolute honor because it shows that my hard work has paid of and that this is only the kickstart to my future.”

Photo courtesy of Lt. Cmdr. Ryan Murtha, Navy Ofce of Community Outreach.

Riverview native, Petty Ofcer 1st Class Diana Bautista.

Senior Cadet Kristen Samuels stands with school principal Denise Savino and LTC (R) David Dietz.

Children and teens who are facing immediate crisis often think they have nowhere or no one to turn to. The truth is, that is not the case. Children and teens in crisis can utilize Safe Place, with which students and teens can receive immediate help through a single text message.

Safe Place is a national initiative locally managed by Hillsborough County Children’s Services that provides access to help and supportive resources for youth in need. It does not matter what the situation is that the child or teen is facing. Whether they have had a fight with their parents or are fleeing domestic abuse in the home, children under the age of 18 can visit any of the dozens of Safe Place locations in Hillsborough County — most of which are open 24/7 — to get assistance.

Hillsborough County ofers nearly 200 Safe Place locations for children in need. These come in many forms, from fire sta-

By Kathy L. Collins

tions to libraries, and even many McDonald’s locations. At each Safe Place location, there are staf trained to help, and each one displays the recognizable yellow-andblack “Safe Place” sign to provide a visual cue for kids to know they are in a safe place.

Locally, the Safe Place locations include the Brandon Recreation Center, Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, McDonald’s on Bloomingdale Avenue and Boys & Girls Club Dover Unit.

Children and teens in crisis can text ‘SAFE’ with their current location to 4HELP (44357) and, within seconds, receive a message with the closest Safe Place site and the phone number to Children’s Services. The employee at the Safe Place location will call Hillsborough County Children’s Services and, within 30-60 minutes, a qualified Safe Place volunteer or staf member will arrive to talk to the youth, who, if necessary, will provide transportation to the Children’s Services campus in Tampa. Once at the campus, the counselors will meet with the youth and their family to make sure they receive the help and professional services they need. For more information about Safe Place in Hillsborough County, including how your organization can become a Safe Place location, please visit its website at www.hcflgov. net/children.

Among life’s certainties is the paying of taxes and fees to government entities that then spend the money for the benefit of residents on things like roads and other infrastructure, or services such as fire protection.

As Hillsborough County’s tax collector, Nancy Millan is responsible for the collection of revenue payments from residents so they can operate a business, own a home, fish for snook or drive a car, as examples.

She was elected to the ofce in November 2020, and while she is the newest Hillsborough County tax collector, it is a position that Millan is familiar with, having served as the agency’s director of community relations for 20 years.

According to Millan, her experience of connecting the community with the county’s administrative and civic processes while working for her predecessor, Doug Belden, influences her work in leading the tax ofce and also played a part in wanting to continue serving county residents by running for election to the position.

“I’m very passionate about this ofce and the work we’ve done, and I wanted to move forward with the excellent foundation to provide excellent service,” she said, adding, “I knew what success looked like.”

By Brad Stager

The COVID-19 pandemic has afected tax ofce operations over the last three years, and the resulting innovations will continue to do so as Millan encourages adoption of technology that ofers residents flexibility in taking care of routine administrative matters.

“We learned there’s a diferent way of doing business,” she said.

Among the innovations are the ability to take a driver’s license road test in a remote fashion, with the examiner observing and evaluating an applicant’s driving skills via cell phone. Other technologies deployed to facilitate public access to the tax ofce include self-service kiosks located at some Publix supermarkets and a bilingual (English and Spanish) chatbot named Sofie on the tax collector website to provide customer assistance.

The high level of customer service expected of tax collection employees is also reflected in the ofce’s internal culture, resulting in recognition as a 2022 National Top Workplaces Culture Excellence awardee by Energage, a national research company that conducts workplace surveys.

visiting www.hillstax.org.

Nancy Millan is the Hillsborough County tax collector.

GRAB BRUNCH AT ONE OF THESE DELICIOUS AREA SPOTS

breakfast sandwiches, crepes, soups and salads.

“For 34 years, The Brunchery has been blessed to be part of this community,” said Stanley Athan, owner of The Brunchery. “With friendly staf, a warm and inviting atmosphere and great food, we in-

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

ing how many eggs it has hand-cracked from the moment its doors opened. “We love being in the Riverview community and appreciate the local love,” said Priscilla. Eggs Up Grill also ofers catering for any size event and a private dining experience in the store for groups of up to 15. The Eggs Up Grill in Riverview is open from 6 a.m.-2:30 p.m., seven days a week.

Community members in FishHawk have been enjoying The Scrambled Egg for over 10 years in Lithia. Whether you’re hanging out with the girls after dropping the kids of at school or bringing the family for a

If you are looking to sleep a few extra hours in the morning, then thank Guy Beringer, the man who coined the term ‘brunch’ back in 1885. Beringer wanted to enjoy a delicious breakfast-based meal after waking up but wanted to sleep in too; this caused him to often miss breakfast time. Instead, he decided to merge breakfast and lunch and call it brunch. If you are looking to get a tasty brunch close to home, thank these five spots for bringing all the options to the community.

With three locations in the area and more all over Florida, First Watch ofers healthier choices for brunch. Choose from many meals that you will feel confident eating, like steel-cut oats, a superfood bowl or a Power Wrap. When eating at First Watch, guests are excited about eating something yummy and healthy. First Watch locations are open from 7 a.m.2:30 p.m. every day.

Canopy Road Cafe first opened its doors in Tallahassee, and now it has nine loca-

tions across Florida, including one in Lithia and one in the Brandon area. Named after the beautiful canopy trees that cover Tallahassee, Canopy Road Cafe has something for everyone. With over 60 menu items, Canopy Road Cafe is serving up delicious breakfast, brunch and lunch items. Both locations are open from 6:30 a.m.-2:15 p.m., seven days a week.

The Brunchery in Valrico has been serving tasty meals since 1988 and has been a staple brunch spot for Valrico. The Brunchery serves a larger variety of things, including omelets,

vite you to bring family and friends and enjoy a great meal.” The Brunchery in Valrico is open from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. seven days a week.

Eggs Up Grill, co-owned by Priscilla and John Conyers, is cracking into a fun brunch experience. Not only does it have a delicious brunch menu, but the store has also been count-

Saturday brunch, The Scrambled Egg is able to provide an incredible brunch experience. The Scrambled Egg is open from 7 a.m.-2 p.m., seven days a week.

Weekend brunches have served many with the perfect meal at the perfect time of day. Enjoying breakfast or lunch has never been easier when you can sleep in on a Saturday and still start your day with a hearty meal.

If you’ve been thinking about lip fller, now is the time!

Restylane Kysse restores lost volume, hydrates and plump lips!

Brunch has become a popular meal across the globe, and these fve spots are just the start of the list of places to get brunch in our community.

Legally Blonde, the Broadway musical version of the wellknown movie, will be on stage this month at Riverview High School three years after its original schedule.

Casey Vaughan, Riverview’s theater director, had secured the rights to produce the show in April 2020. But then the start of what would become a global virus pandemic shut down the school calendar and crushed the excitement of so many teens who had worked hard to prepare, Vaughan recalled recently. Her 200-student theater program didn’t start to “feel like itself” again until a full year later, when she created a outdoor staging of the musical Rent that won regional awards.

Vaughan said even last spring she didn’t have the heart to revive Legally Blonde because emotions were still tender among some of the students who had missed their moments in that spotlight. Instead, The Little Mermaid became the 2022 spring musical, complete with a creative take on environmental damage to the oceans that also won awards.

Finally this year, the director felt comfortable with entirely new cast members

Staf Report

for the upbeat story of Elle Woods as an underdog at Harvard Law School. In fact, many of the roles are double cast to involve more of the 50plus students involved in this produc-tion.

“We have the strong voices, a really big set, and a few surprises in store for our audi-ence,”

Vaughan said.

Those voices include students in leading roles who won top statewide awards for oth-er theatrical singing performances just last month at the annual festival of Florida Thespians. The set is the sort of significant construction that has become tradition at Riverview High, which features one of the largest stages in one of the nation’s largest school districts. And those “surprises”

Vaughan mentioned include a pair of newcom-ers to the stage: 2 rescued dogs playing the roles of Elle’s pup Bruiser and her friend Paulette’s pooch Rufus.

Legally Blonde will be presented at 7pm April 13-14 and 19-22 in Hawkins Hall at Riverview High, 1311 Boyette Road in Riverview. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students, and free for all school district employees as always. For more information, go online to riverviewhstheatre.com.

Jeremy Persinger, is the owner and operator of Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers, located in Riverview. His Riverview business has been family-owned and operated since 2020. Persinger had another location that he opened in Bradenton in 2018. “I started with corporate Express Oil Change in 2015,” Persinger said. “Express Oil Change was in express expansion mode, and they had just acquired Tire Engineers, so they brought me on to help grow both businesses because they knew they were going to co-brand the businesses.”

Persinger said that many businesses call themselves a one-stop shop, but he feels his business truly is one. “A lot of places can do your oil changes very quickly, but they can’t do tires or mechanical services,” Persinger said. “So, if you need brakes or other vehicle services, they have to send you somewhere else. We are really one of the national brands that can do both.”

If you ask Persinger what he likes most about what he does at Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers, he will tell you: everything. “I truly love being a part of the team, and I love interacting with our customers. We’ll even make you a cup of cofee if you ask.”

By Libby Hopkins

In order to deliver a consistent customer experience every time, Persinger’s advice is, “Don’t do anything you don’t already do on a daily basis.”

Persinger is also active with the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation and has been on the board since 2008, chairing two fishing events as well as the marketing committee for the foundation. Since becoming a part of the organization, they have raised over $30 million towards fighting Pediatric Cancer and have watched the survival rate go from three out of five kids to four out of five kids in that time frame. “Each clinical trial we put these kids through costs about $15K,” Persinger said. “We pay for all of it for them, and we pray for a day that there is not a need for what we do at the Pediatric Cancer Foundation.”

Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.6 p.m. and on Saturday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; it is closed on Sunday.

For more information about Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers, visit its website at www.expressoil.com/stores/riverview/ fl/0831/ or call 813-499-9606. The shop is located at 11690 Boyette Rd. in Riverview, next to Culver’s.

Riverview High School Teater presents Legally Blonde Te Musical on April 13-14 and 19-22 in Hawkins Hall at Riverview High.

Jeremy Persinger, owner and operator of Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers in Riverview. His Riverview business has been family-owned and operated since 2020.

White Oak Cottage Celebrates One-year Anniversary

The White Oak Cottage, a home decor boutique, recently celebrated the one-year anniversary of its upscale restaurant with a ribbon-cutting hosted by the Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce. Located at 10530 S. County Rd. 39 in Lithia, its restaurant hours are Wednesday to Sunday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Dinner reservations for between the hours of 5-8 p.m. are recommended; reserve by calling 813650-0054. For more information, visit www. thewhiteoakcottage. com.

PF Auto Glass Celebrates 29 Years In Business Riverview residents Pat and Donna Fore has successfully owned and operated PF Auto Glass since 1994 and are celebrating 29 years of serving customers throughout Hillsborough County. PF Auto Glass o f ers prompt mobile auto glass services, personalized customer service, assistance with auto insurance claims for damaged auto glass and a

full lifetime warranty on all car window repairs. For more information, visit its website at www.pfautoglass.com or call 813-741-3633.

Swing Band Concert At Presbyterian Church Of Bloomingdale

Come and enjoy a fun-filled evening of music and dance at the Presbyterian

Church of Bloomingdale, located at 710 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. It is hosting a swing band concert, featuring live music by Riverside Jukebox, on Friday, April 21 at 7 p.m. Concertgoers will hear music from the big band era up to the 1980s. Tickets for the event are available at www.pcob.us/ events and cost $20 per person or $30 per couple.

Tax Collector Takes Refueling Flight At MacDill Air Force Base Hillsborough County Tax Collector Nancy C. Millan was honored to be named an honorary commander of the 927th Air Refueling Wing at MacDill Air Force Base. The program has become an integral part of the MacDill Air Force Base family, as the honorees serve as ambassadors to educate and promote relations with the community. In March, Millan was very excited to join some of her fellow honorary commanders on a refueling flight as part of this program.

Te Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting for the Junkluggers of Tampa East & Hillsborough South, which provides an eco-friendly solution to traditional junk removal with a commitment to enhancing lives, communities and the environment through donating, recycling and supporting local charities. For information, call 813-480-3802.

Dancing for Joy celebrated the opening of its second location in south Riverview. Te new studio is located at 11331 U.S. Hwy. 301, just north of Symmes Road on the west side of the highway.

Board & Brush Creative Studio celebrated the opening of its new location in Apollo Beach. It is a DIY wood sign workshop where you can create your own unique and trendy farmhouse classic projects under the guidance of the workshop instructor.

FruxPay celebrated the launch of its new website, www.fruxpay.com.

FruxPay is a full-service merchant services provider serving the business community with cutting-edge solutions regardless of industry.

White Oak Cottage celebrated its frst year in business with a ribbon-cutting.

IMPOWERED MINDS GROUP HELPS LOCAL YOUTH

Impowered Minds is a nonprofit youth organization that focuses on education, recreation and mental health. Its primary platform is fishing.

“We mentor, coach and help direct the youth on and of the water,” said Jason Glanton, Impowered Minds CEO and president. “Our mission is to establish a better comprehension of self for each child — self-integrity, self-respect, self-confidence — and ultimately lead to being a positive influence in life. We also teach and promote entrepreneurship, financial literacy and focus on each child learning a trade.”

Glanton’s father loved fishing and committed to taking him and his siblings fishing on Thursdays after work. “I looked forward to it because Tampa was a big city surrounded by big water,” Glanton said. “Fishing the Gulf of Mexico was much diferent than the lakes and ponds I knew. The taste of beach water was an adjustment too, but by the age of 10, I was slowly transforming into what’s known as ‘Salt Life.’”

Glanton learned a lot about life on the water. “Fishing kept me out of trouble,” Glanton said. “I had found something I loved that kept me busy while learning new skills.”

After Glanton’s parents passed away, he felt there had to be more he could do to keep both their legacies alive. “I took my

CHILDREN’S BOARD FAMILY RESOURCE CENTERS OFFER EXPLORER’S CLUB FOR TEENS AND PRETEENS

By Libby Hopkins

profession of training to the next level,” Glanton said. “I figured, since I created programs for Verizon Wireless that were successful, why not duplicate what I did for Verizon, but do it to help the community? After years of teaching kids to fish and fishing with my own, it hit me, so in 2020, the vision came to me clearly: I am here to mentor the youth for the rest of my life.”

From there, Impowered Minds was born.

Glanton used to live in the Riverview area and loved fishing in the area, so he takes youth from all over Tampa Bay fishing in the Riverview area, as well as in the Gulf of Mexico. “I loved the Riverview area and there are some great fishing spots, so whenever we get the chance we take the kids to Riverview to fish,” said Glanton.

Seeing the youth learn how to fish or make their first catch is one of his favorite parts of running Impowered Minds. “It’s an awesome feeling for me to see the kids learn how to bait a hook or catch their first fish,” Glanton said. “The parents love it to when their children tell them about the great day they had fishing.”

If you would like to learn more about Impowered Minds or want to volunteer, visit www.impoweredminds.org or contact Glanton at 813-906-0561.

The Children’s Board Family Resource Centers are located throughout Hillsborough County and ofer programs and services emphasizing family support, child development, health, safety and learning success. One of the newest programs is the Explorer’s Club.

The Explorer’s Club is good for students 12-15 years old. It is an outlet to meet new people, socialize and participate in events that teach life skills. All of this is designed to help them build self-confidence and learn new skills. The only requirement for attending is that the student’s family must be a member of a Children’s Board Family Resource Center.

Each Children’s Board Family Resource Center has diferent schedules for classes and events. The resource centers are located at: 1271 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon (813740-4634); 301 N. Palmer St. in Plant City (813-752-8700); and 3030 E. College Ave. in Ruskin (813-641-5600).

The Explorer’s Club was developed in Plant City by Talisha Nelms, early childhood coordinator for the Plant City Resource Center, as a result of the needs of the community. Each resource center has a Community Advisory Council. The idea for the Explorer’s Club came about as a result of the need to help teens prepare for the future. In addition, parents whose children came to the resource centers as

By Kathy L. Collins

young children, wanted resources and opportunities for them. After the first year of operation in Plant City, the Explorer’s Club was introduced at all seven locations. Tamika Lopez, family specialist for the Plant City Resource Center, explained, “The Explorer’s Club is a resource for teens trying to figure things out. We want to help prepare them for the future.”

Tyheshia Scott, director of the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers, said, “This program was developed in response to the needs of the community. We want to be a part of the solution by continuing to be with children as they grow up.”

The Explorer’s Club is set up in six-week sessions. Students can join at any time. The sessions are ofered year-round, with a two to three-week break between sessions. Each class lasts one hour. The resource center provides all of the materials, and each session is run by the staf of the individual resource center.

The Children’s Board of Hillsborough County was established in 1988 after the legislature passed the Juvenile Welfare Services Act. The legislation provided that any Florida county whose voters passed a referendum could create a special taxing district for children’s services.

For more information, please visit www. familysupporthc.org.

Impowered Minds is a youth organization that focuses on education, recreation and mental health. Its primary platform is fshing.

Teens and preteens can get access to lifeskill classes that also boost self-confdence and promote socialization at Children’s

Board Family Resource Centers located in Brandon, Plant City and Ruskin.

ALAFIA RIVER CANOE RENTALS HAS BEEN LOCAL SOURCE ON THE ALAFIA FOR NEARLY 50 YEARS

For those looking for a fun activity for the whole family or maybe just an afternoon in nature, look no further than Alafia River Canoe Rentals, located on the banks of the Alafia River just of of Lithia Pinecrest Road. Tucked among the trees, Alafia River Canoe Rentals has served the Southeastern Hillsborough County area for close to 50 years. For a mere $25 for a full day’s rental of a canoe, it is difcult not to have a good time navigating the twists and turns of the Alafia.

When you pull up to Alafia River Canoe, you are quickly greeted by owner and founder Sybil (who prefers her last name not be used), from where she operates the business beneath her house, as she has for decades. From the time you approach the stand to when you return to the docks, Sybil is the epitome of customer service. With her answering any questions you may have about the river and the area she knows like the back of her hand, you can feel confident that you will have a great day on the river when renting here. This long-standing business came to be in 1976 when Sybil’s husband went out to get a canoe to navigate the periodi-

NEW LOCAL AWARD-WINNING SHORT FILM AVAILABLE ON AMAZON

By Jonathan Hurst

cal flood waters that would come around their house — and ultimately returned with four of them. Over the next decade or so, those four canoes grew into a fleet of canoes and kayaks, peaking close to 200 in the 1990s. While the success sparked two other canoe rentals nearby in the past, in 2023, Alafia River Canoe Rentals stands alone as the oldest canoe rental for the Alafia River.

“We just stuck it out through the floods and some tougher times, and we are still here,” Sybil said.

While it has sold of about half of those canoes in recent times, that has not led a downturn, as the company is firmly entrenched in the community it serves, and there are no plans to go anywhere anytime soon. Most popular in the springtime, as that is when the river is the most stable, it attempts to operate year-round.

If you find yourself interested, it is recommended to call ahead of time to make sure the river is navigable. For more information, call 813-689-8645 or visit its Facebook page, Alafia River Canoe Rentals. It is located at 4419 River Dr. in Valrico.

A new 30-minute film based on a short story by bestselling author

R.J. Hendricks II is making major waves on the film fest award circuit.

The film, The Hanging of William Cane, is now available as a cowboy series on Amazon along with another short film, Killer Miller . In fact, The Hanging of William Cane has brought home more than 40 awards for acting, directing, editing, screenplay, score and costume design to date.

The film is a western love story about a rancher, William Cane, on his Texas ranch in 1881. He’s about to lose his family farm and does one final cattle drive to try to save his home, but it fails. In an act of desperation, he agrees to accompany a bank robber to Dry Creek, but the deed takes a deadly turn and Cane must face the music.

Hendricks is an author of eight books and a huge fan of westerns. Hendricks said when he decided to start writing, westerns were the perfect genre for him.

“I was trying to send the message that decisions have consequences,” Hen -

By Marie Gilmore

dricks said.

Tampa-based director Preston Walden was pleased to be a part of the production and brought in many local actors and extras for the shoot.

One local extra, Jose Roldan Jr., was proud to be a part of the production. “Being a part of The Hanging of William Cane was awesome. It was like going back in time and reliving the old west,” said Roldan, who has been involved in local movie and short-film productions for almost a year.

The movie was shot over five days in March at Dry Creek Ranch — a Wild West movie set in Parrish — and created by Les McDowell, who also played the sheri f in the movie.

For more information about The Hanging of William Cane , visit www.facebook.com/authorrj.hendricks.7. The movie is available as a special feature called Tales from the Old West on amazon.com and is available to rent for $0.99 or to buy for $2.99.

Sybil, owner and operator of Alafa River Canoe Rentals, has maintained this local business since 1976.

“Te Hanging of William Cane” is now available on Amazon as a special feature called Tales from the Old West.

Concert, Golf Tournaments, Teater & More...

East Bay High School Masterworks

Chorus Performs At United Methodist Church Of Sun City Center

The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center (SCCUMC) is pleased to welcome East Bay High School’s Masterworks Chorus for an evening concert on Tuesday, April 11 at 7 p.m. in the church’s sanctuary. This will be a wonderful evening of excellent music, and the public is invited to support the talented young singers and the outstanding music program that they represent. Tickets are available from the SCCUMC campus bookstore, its church ofce and online by visiting www.sccumc. com and selecting the ‘Events’ tab. The SCCUMC is located at 1971 Haverford Ave. in Sun City Center.

Hillsborough County Hiring

For Seasonal Parks & Rec Jobs

School will let out soon for the summer, and many of those children will enroll in Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation summer camp programs. This means that the county is now hiring recreation leaders for the season. The jobs are 40 hours a week and last for 10 weeks. Summer camp leaders will work with children ages 5-16 years old in a variety of educational and outdoor recreational activities. Applicants must have first-aid and CPR certification before starting, along with a driver’s license and having graduated high school or earned a GED certificate. To apply, go to www.hcflgov.net/jobs.

Drive Out Pediatric Cancer Golf Tournament

Small but Mighty Heroes is hosting its first Drive Out Pediatric Cancer charity golf tournament on Saturday, May 13.

The tournament will take place at Summerfield Crossing Golf Course, located at 13050 Summerfield Blvd. in Riverview. Registration opens at 11:30 a.m., followed by a shotgun start at 1 p.m. The entry price is $125 per golfer or $500 per foursome. For more information, visit https://smallbutmightyheroes.org/ or email info@smallbutmightyheroes.org.

Te Apollo Beach Woman’s Club Luncheon

On Wednesday, May 10, the Apollo Beach Woman’s Club (ABWC) will

recognize its 2023 college scholarship recipients at Ruskin Moose Lodge #183, located at 1212 E. Shell Point Rd in Ruskin. In 2022, the ABWC awarded $12,000 in college scholarships to eight students from East

service members, as well as funding the organizations humanitarian activities in Ukraine and Afghanistan. The tournament will take place at Westchase Golf Club’s 18-hole course in Tampa. Tournament check-in and breakfast will begin at 7 a.m., with a shotgun start at 8 a.m. The event will conclude with a lunch reception, silent auction and awards. Registration is $150 per player or $500 per foursome and includes breakfast, lunch and a swag bag. Golfers can win prizes and will have exclusive bidding access to the silent auction and rafe prizes. Space is limited; registration can be found at https://operationrecovery.org/golf/.

Savannah Sipping Society Presented By Pelican Players Community Teater

Bay and Lennard high schools. This will be the last luncheon of the season, with luncheons resuming in September. For menu details and reservations, contact Barbara DeOca at 813-892-1219 or email abwclub2020@gmail.com. For additional information about the ABWC, which has been serving the community since 1959, visit its website at www.apollobeachwomansclub.com.

Operation Recovery To Host Its First Golf Tournament Operation Recovery, a Tampa-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports American veterans, will host its first golf tournament fundraiser on Saturday, April 22. The event will benefit its 2023 initiatives: providing support and professional development to veterans and transitioning

This month, the Pelican Players Community Theater will perform Savannah Sipping Society, a play full of relatable humor around the perks and perils of being an older single woman in Savannah.

All are welcome to the Kings Point Veterans Theater, located in the north clubhouse at 1900 Clubhouse Dr. in Sun City Center. Evening shows are from Thursday through Saturday, April 27-29 at 7 p.m., with a matinee on April 29 at 1:30 p.m. Tickets are available at the box ofce Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Visit www.pelicanplayersscc. org for more information on upcoming shows.

Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com

COACHING SPOTLIGHT: PAUL ULLOM RIVERVIEW HIGH SCHOOL

For Riverview High School varsity softball head coach

Paul Ullom, coaching means more than simply coming up with a game plan and helping players with their technique. It provides a unique opportunity to create change and help young players be better prepared for the world beyond softball.

“We try to teach life, not just softball. There are some programs where the focus is on getting a scholarship, but we try to teach life lessons to our players along with softball,” Ullom said.

It is not a duty that Ullom takes lightly, as he says he feels as if coaching is something he was meant to do, nor is it something that he envisions himself stopping in the near future. When asked about his greatest accomplishments throughout his coaching career, he said it wasn’t his wins and losses but that he was able to shift a player’s belief system about what was possible.

It is the moments like that which prove coaching is a personal thing for Coach Ullom, and in the three years that he has been at the helm of Riverview varsity softball, the growth players expe-rience with their softball skills is matched by the char-

BELL CREEK ACADEMY PITCHER FRITSCH THROWS

GAME; SECOND OF HIS CAREER

By Jonathan Hurst Bell Creek Acade-

acter growth they undergo as well. This personal connection to the game is something that keeps Ullom coming back every year. Ullom’s wife, Dawn, has also come on staf with the team in recent years, and the duo have been able to notch multiple winning seasons in their tenure. While winning is the goal and it is fantastic to win, that is not the barometer of a successful season in his eyes.

“We define success by being able to help kids improve on and of the field and do not really correlate it to any particular season,” Ullom said.

This well-rounded approach to coaching is something that Ullom has developed over time, as he credits Glen Rodriguez, head softball coach at East Bay High School, with giving him an op-portunity and aiding him in his coaching development. Ullom further recognizes legendary col-lege basketball coach John Wooden as an inspiration of sorts for the way in which he coaches, with a focus on making the individual the best that they can be. This player-first mentality is evident when former players return to visit the program and mention how their time playing under Ullom has impacted them and their development.

PERFECT

my senior pitcher Tyler Fritsch realized he was in the midst of a special outing in the fourth inning when he noticed the opposing lead-of hitter taking practice swings in the on-deck circle between innings. Fortunately, Fritsch had been in the exact same spot the prior year against the same team and knew what it would take to be perfect.

“My fastball was very much on, I could throw it wherever I wanted it,” he said. “I noticed that the zone was consistently low and I could just hit my spot every time with my fastball, and my changeup was on too, so it was really easy to keep the batters of balance with the fastball-changeup combination.”

The pressure was of of Fritsch because he had already thrown a perfect game against Cambridge Christian last year. He has carried the confidence from that game into his hot start early this season.

“I didn’t think much about it because I came in with the mentality that I already threw one,” said Fritsch. “I go into every game thinking, ‘You already threw a perfect game, so you can’t really do much better, so don’t think about it too much.’ If I lost it, I wasn’t going to be too concerned about it, so I just kept dealing with that poise and composure, I guess. You can’t beat a perfect game, it’s about as good as it gets.”

Fritsch was on the same page as his battery mate, senior catcher Jacob Ananias,

By Nick Nahas

who was calling the pitches. The pitcher was comfortable with his catcher, who previously caught all of his starts this season. Fritsch only needed 66 pitches in six innings while striking out 12 batters to complete the perfect game. The Panthers mercy-ruled the Lancers.

“My reaction after the last out was relief and shock because by the fourth inning, everyone knew what was going on and all we wanted to do was keep from jinxing it,” said Ananias. “I have never caught a perfect game before and, I gotta say, it’s a great thing to be a part of.”

The senior enjoyed his second career perfect game a little more than the first because he was able to record the last out and finish the game on the mound. His team’s 10-run ruled Cambridge Christian in the bottom of the inning on ofense the last time.

“I am so grateful that I was able to be a part of something so special and am glad I get to catch a pitcher of this level,” said Ananias.

The pitcher ranks this achievement as his favorite moment of his career. He gives credit to his coach, Frank Burke, who he’s played with for seven seasons at Bell Creek.

“It doesn’t take a perfect outing every time to win games,” said Fritsch. “My team trusts me a lot, so it makes it a lot easier to go out and do my job when you know that everyone has your back.”

Riverview High School varsity softball head coach Paul Ullom working hard with his team.

Photo courtesy of Shadarra Welton Tyler Fritsch knew he was throwing a perfect game by the fourth inning.

BUDDY CRUISE ANNOUNCES TWO LOCAL SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

Buddy Cruise Inc., a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity that provides educational opportunities, awareness, advocacy and inclusion for individuals with special needs and their families, recently announced the 2023 Erin’s Umbrella scholarship winners.

Founded in 2008, one of its key programs is an annual conference at sea that hosts interactive workshops, events and activities for all ages and abilities. Families from across the globe come together for this unique, life-changing experience.

Maria Dellapina and her daughter, Erin, enjoyed several years of Buddy Cruising until, sadly, Erin passed away in 2019. Later that year, Erin’s family, onboard the Buddy Cruise, announced the creation of the Erin’s Umbrella scholarship. Erin’s sweet, caring and infectious smile will be remembered by allowing new families to experience the same joy onboard the Buddy Cruise. Scholarship winners will receive a voyage on Buddy Cruise 2023, including a cabin for two and conference fees with access to all sessions, events, activities and Buddy Cruise swag.

Nominations were received from across the country, and with so many heartfelt stories, three families were awarded scholarships this year, including two local families.

One of the scholarship winners is Diego Rangel, a Newsome High School student with multiple special needs. He continues to succeed and overcome many diagnoses. He and his family have endured many hardships

this past year, including the passing of his grandmother, who was his caregiver while his mother, Daniella Vetencourt, underwent chemotherapy treatments. They are excited to join the Buddy Cruise this year and celebrate life.

The other scholarship winner is Madelyn Hart, who has several disabilities that afect her daily life. The Buddy Cruise will give her a chance to socialize with other individuals who know what it is like to be neurodiverse in a safe environment. Hart has four siblings, two of whom also have unique needs. Her mother, Donna, a teacher at Newsome High School, is thrilled to share this experience with Hart and take part in their first Buddy Cruise.

The third recipient of the 2023 Erin’s Umbrella scholarship is Cody Reyes. Reyes is a 22-year-old man who resides in Terrytown, Louisiana.

The Buddy Cruise welcomes everyone: individuals with disabilities, their families and friends. Even if you are not a part of the special-needs community, you are welcome to come along for an amazing journey. The 2023 event will be held onboard Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas for a fun Halloween sailing from Sunday, October 29 through Sunday, November 5. For more information about the 2023 Buddy Cruise or other upcoming events, visit buddycruise. org, email joinus@buddycruise.org or call 877-239-2789, Ext. 0.

BY MICHAEL MURPHY

BRANDON PEST CONTROL BRINGS 50 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE TO A SERVICE CALL

By Brad Stager

Spring is in the air. The waters are warming up and the cold fronts are in the past. Sea grasses are back, and so is the bait. And large numbers of snapper, snook, trout and Spanish mackerel are abound in the bay.

When targeting in on trout, keep in mind that artificial jigs work best on the grass flats. You can cover much more area in a shorter time and much safer for the release of trout. It is an active approach to finding them, as opposed to the live bait methods, which are more passive approaches. Try a oneeighth oz. jig head with paddle tail or curly tail bodies. Color doesn’t always matter as much as the movement; I do prefer the new penny, tan with gold flakes and red and gold colors.

Live bait or artificials work very well for Spanish mackerel. With live bait, you may choose to use a long-shank, silver hook. This will help eliminate many of the cut-ofs we get with the mouth full of teeth that the mackerel have.

Snapper will be moving in and are very aggressive. They respond and school up well

with chum, so grab a bag and hang it of the boat to get a mess of snapper for the dinner table. You may choose to use a 1/0 or #1-sized hook, and put just enough weight to keep the bait steady on the bottom. Many times, when chumming, these fish will rise up in the water column, sometimes just right of the side of the boat. You will want to cut some bait in half and chum with them, then put a hook with no weight in a piece and be ready to reel them in.

Snook will be in the passes and steadily feeding on the schools of bait on the flats and pass entrances. Greenies are almost always the bait of choice, as snook will readily crush those little morsels. Fly fishing this time of year is great; the grass that is usually seen on the surface will be at a minimum and allow better retrieval of the fly. I like to use a green deceiver or just a white streamer fly on a 25 lb. tippet. Give it a try. It’s fun, challenging and very rewarding when it all works in unison. Try an eight-weight rod and a weight-forward, floating line.

Get out and enjoy Tampa Bay.

While people may not talk about bugs as much as the weather, insects can do a lot of damage, and when it comes to dealing with undesirable critters, there are very few local exterminators who can match the 50 years of experience that Brandon Pest Control in Valrico can proudly claim.

One indicator of the company’s success is that in 1973, when Rhode Island transplants Cookie and Lloyd Turchin founded Brandon Pest Control, they provided services to about 200 customers. That service base has grown to 4,500 customers throughout the local Tampa Bay area and beyond, including two ofces in Georgia, over the following half-century.

Termites may be the number one bug enemy for most structures, but the self-described bug muggers of Brandon Pest Control take on everything from rodents to earwigs in homes and businesses.

Technicians of Brandon Pest Control are trained in the latest eradication methods and put safety at the top of their considerations when on a service call. The staf of the company is also one of the most experienced to be found among pest-control operators in the area with many longtime employees. The Turchins attribute that

stability to taking care of the people who take care of their customers.

“Our employees have been with us a long time,” Cookie and Lloyd said in a joint statement.

“We don’t like turnover. Some employees have been here for over 20 years. Our employees are reliable and dependable, from our technicians to our ofce staf Everyone is happy.”

Some of the things Brandon Pest Control does to keep customers happy include inviting customers to observe termite treatment operations, as much as safety considerations allow; using flow meters to ensure proper amounts of chemicals such as Termidor are used; cleaning all areas where work was performed; and patching drill holes. Interest-free financing is also available.

Some signs that termites have invaded your structure include seeing swarms of tiny insects; finding a lot of small, delicate wings around windows, doors and baseboards; and finding tiny holes in a wall.

To discover how Brandon Pest Control can take care of your pest problem, ask questions or request a free quote, visit its website at www.brandonpest.com or call 813-685-7711.

Trevor with a great snook.

Brian with a nice redfsh.

BOARD GAMES AND BOWLING — A NEW SPIN ON OLD CLASSICS

Lithia-based company Scarb Enterprises LLC is adding a new twist to one of the world’s oldest sports, bowling, with its bowling adventure games Dragon Bowl and Raceway Alley. Founded by Scott and Barbara Eder, Scarb began in 2020 with their partner, Matt Nantais, but the original concept of Dragon Bowl was born over half a decade ago in 2017.

As youth bowling coaches, Scott and Barbara often found that their players were bored of practice. This led Scott to begin experimenting with a method of getting his players more engaged with the practices, and the result was a very rudimentary version of Dragon Bowl, with tape, a mixture of game pieces and dragon figurines.

“Once the bowlers understood the game, we noticed they were actively strategizing for their next moves and much more involved in the process of practicing,” Scott said.

Realizing the potential that their game had, they began to refine it and make the necessary tweaks that resulted in the dragon-slaying adventure that they have now. The game for sale now is a very high-quality, professional creation with astounding attention to detail, as the game has been designed down to the most minute details and littered with bowling ref-

IMPACT’S GOT TALENT BRINGS YOU THE COMMUNITY’S BEST

By Jonathan Hurst

erences throughout.

Despite their relatively recent start, Scarb Enterprises has managed to spread their game to multiple states, reaching as far as Hawaii, capturing players across the country.

Dragon Bowl’s sister game, also produced by Scarb Enterprises, is Raceway Alley, which was designed to appeal all of the racing fans out there. In this game, released in December 2022, bowlers compete on a track on the game board as they race to the finish line, utilizing strategy and skill to win.

“With these games, we are able to grow the sport of bowling in innovative and fun ways,” Barbara said.

Pioneering a new industry is something that is never easy, but with its unique concept, Scarb Enterprises is well on its way to making its name known within the bowling world and beyond. For those who have an interest in board games but have never really connected with bowling, or even if you are just looking for something fun and diferent to do with friends and family, this game is something to check out.

For more information on Scarb Enterprises and its games, visit www.scarbenterprises.com or follow along on Facebook at Scarb Enterprises, LLC and Instagram @scarbenterprises.

Join Impact at Bloomingdale High School for the seventh annual Impact’s Got Talent and support the efforts of teaching healthy habits to teens.

On Friday, April 28 at 6:30 p.m. at Bloomingdale High School, kindergarteners through high school seniors will be performing their talents and competing for a grand prize of $250. Enjoy the best vocalists, actors, dancers, musicians and more.

With amazing talent, special-guest judges, audience-choice votes, concessions, 50-50 ra f es and silent-auction prizes, Impact’s Got Talent is going to be a night of fun.

All ticket sales will benefit the Impact Program and its continued e f orts to inspire parents, leaders and teens to fight for a healthy lifestyle. Tickets are $10 per person and are available for purchase online.

“This is a great opportunity for students in our community to get involved while raising funds for the Impact Program,” said Angie Kagey, executive director at Impact.

The Impact Program promotes healthy lifestyles for teens by encouraging parents, teachers and leaders to empower

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

kids so they say no to things like premarital sex, drugs, tobacco and alcohol. The three programs work with di f erent levels of the community to fight unhealthy behaviors and teach smart habits, and they are able to reach over 10,000 kids every year. Impact serves the community through schools, churches and other community organizations.

There are multiple ways you can get involved in Impact and support its mission, such as donating gas cards or bags of hard candy to Impact, helping toward its need of passenger vans used for summer programs, or volunteering as administrative support, an event volunteer or an education specialist. Businesses can also help support Impact through financial or services like printing, media, accounting or legal services.

To learn more, please contact Jennifer Crum at 863-661-3236 or crummiej2@gmail.com or visit www.whatisimpact.com/events. To purchase tickets for watching Impact’s Got Talent, visit https://impactsgottalent2023. eventbrite.com. For students and parents who are seeking help, visit www. whatisimpact.com/resources to find more educational resources.

Purchase tickets now to Impact’s Got Talent to support Impact and its eforts to instill healthy habits and lifestyle choices in our future leaders.

Scott and Barbara Eder, founders of Scarb Enterprises LLC displaying their games.

SECOND ANNUAL FIGHT LIKE JUNE TENNIS TOURNAMENT WILL TAKE PLACE APRIL 15-16 AT THE RIVER HILLS COUNTRY CLUB

The June Rogers Foundation for Colon Cancer Research (JRF) was started by seven of June Rogers’ friends in her honor. The JRF is partnering with Moftt Cancer Center to provide funds for colon cancer research. The foundation has raised over $150,000 since October 2021 and hopes to raise another $250,000 this year. For this goal, the JRF is holding its second annual Fight Like June Tennis Tournament on Saturday and Sunday, April 15-16 at the River Hills Country Club.

All proceeds from the annual tournament will be directed entirely to the fund that is established to solely support the gastrointestinal oncology program at Moftt, with oversight provided by Dr. Jason Fleming, program chair. The current project selected by the JRF is ‘Harnessing the Immune System in the Fight Against Colorectal Cancer.’

The Fight Like June Tennis Tournament had over 200 spectators last year and raised $27,000 for the fund.

The memorial tournament is open to the public and will have a Frank Sinatra impersonator singing on April 15 from 3:30-6:30 p.m. Former Romanian ATP tennis player Alexandru Gasca-Silva will be a surprise guest on Sunday. There will be a cash bar, as well as rafe baskets and auction items. Researchers and doctors from Moftt will be on hand to answer questions and bring awareness to the disease.

Allison Townsend, board member of the foundation and friend of Rogers, said that the community has stepped up for the cause

HANDYMAN MILLER INC. OFFERS QUALITY SERVICE TO THE RIVERVIEW COMMUNITY

By Libby Hopkins

By Nick Nahas

and helped the foundation gain a lot of steam.

“The support of the community and the support of Moftt Cancer Center and June’s story are producing incredible energy,” said Townsend.

“It makes our goal of raising $250,000 over the next 12 months realistic, that’s for sure.”

Chicago Cubs outfielder and colon cancer survivor Trey Mancini has taken notice of the foundation. He donated four box seats at a Cubs game, as well as on-field access to meet the team during batting practice.

Tournament sponsors include Don Williams - Prime Capital Investment Advisors, Bonefish Grill, Palm Tree Orthodontics, River Hills Country Club, Rooftop Leadership, Smith & Associates Real Estate, The Sigler Group, Valley Bank, Certified Roofers and Artisan Design, to name a few.

Rogers was adamant about raising awareness of her disease. Early detection is key.

“Anybody who met June realized she was special,” said Townsend. “She had an incredible grace about her, she was funny, and she was honest, and she was a true friend. When you see somebody that you love go through those last months, you just want to make sure that nobody else has to go through that. That’s what this tournament is about.”

River Hills Country Club is located at 3943 New River Hills Pkwy. in Valrico. To donate, visit https://tinyurl.com/jrfccr, or follow @junerogersfoundation.

Jason Miller, owner of Handyman Miller Inc., was born and raised in Ruskin, and his wife is Amy, who is from Apollo Beach. The couple lived in Temple Terrace for a while and then lived in North Carolina for four years before moving to Riverview, where they currently live. “I have always worked in construction and technology and have experience in many diferent fields of construction, including aluminum, screening, steel buildings and wood-frame homes from the ground up,” Miller said. “I have worked in Southern Hillsborough County most of my life.”

Miller started doing side work in addition to his full-time job to make extra money as a teen. “After many years of learning many diferent trades and perfect timing, I decided to trust God and take a leap of faith and go full time with my own business in 2012,” Miller said. “I planned to keep it small, but my quality of work grew my business. I needed help. So, I slowly decided to add two employees that I know well and trust. The work we put out and the type of people working for me is very important. The reputation of my company is everything.”

If you ask Miller what makes his business diferent from others in the area, he’ll tell you about his quality of work and the level of customer service he gives his clients. “I truly care about my customers

and the quality of work that we do,” Miller said. “My employees have to give quality work. I only have two employees that I have carefully vetted, and I know they do the same quality work that I do and expect. We also do not take payments for jobs until they are complete. We do our best to make sure we run a legit and completely legal business.”

Miller also loves the variety his business brings him. “It is something diferent every day,” Miller said. “I also get to meet many very interesting people. I love working with my hands, building and fixing things, along with being able to get creative and fix issues that are uncommon or odd.”

Keeping things local is very important to Miller and his team. “Local is very important to me,” Miller said. “When companies are local, they usually care about the people they serve even more. I have grown up working in diferent construction businesses in this area. I love to help when elderly customers have been taken advantage of and then call me to come fix what another person has either ruined or not fixed correctly.”

If you would like to learn more about the services Miller and his team ofer, visit their website at www.handymanmiller. com. Call Jason for a free estimate at 813-503-5774.

Be Yourself Again with a Customized Weight Loss Program

Te June Rogers Foundation for Colon Cancer Research was started by seven of June Rogers’ friends in her honor.

Jason Miller is a handyman who is a rare jack of many trades, and master of quite a few. He is the owner of Handyman Miller Inc.

HEATH WEALTH MANAGEMENT MAKES CUSTOMERS MAIN FOCUS

With over 20 years as a financial professional, Elijah Heath of Heath Wealth Management is dedicated to helping individuals and families pursue their financial goals.

He uses his established processes in an efort to address quality investments with the appropriate financial goal, taking into consideration each client’s comfort zone, risks and volatility into account. His experience through many diferent market cycles provides the understanding to help his clients structure the proper portfolio allocation in striving to weather the storms of uncertainty.

With over 20 years as a fnancial professional, Elijah Heath of Heath

MCAULEY FINE JEWELRY CELEBRATES WITH NEW NEARBY LOCATION

By Libby Hopkins

committed to making our community a better place to live, work and play,” Heath said.

If you ask Heath what makes his business diferent from other wealth management companies in the area, he will tell you it’s that he and his team are focused on you, the client.

“It’s about our clients, not us,” Heath said.

One of the community’s staple jewelry and repair shops has purchased a new storefront right in the heart of Brandon.

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

bers at McAuley

Fine Jewelry have a wide skill set to assist customers.

Heath has lived in the Brandon area for more than 45 years. “I grew up here and raised my children here,” Heath said. “I recently downsized and moved to downtown Tampa. I have been helping my clients with financial planning for 23 years. In 2019, I went out on my own and started Heath Wealth Management.”

In addition, he is a past president of the Rotary Club of Bloomingdale/FishHawk, having served on the board in a number of diferent capacities over the years, and is the co-founder of this club’s successful ongoing fundraiser, the Winthrop Crawfish Festival, which has raised in excess of $100,000 for local charities. He earned the title of 2013 Honorary Mayor of Riverview as a result of the funds he’s raised. “I am

“My staf and I help our clients identify and prioritize their long-term goals. We listen to what is important and work together through their lives to help keep them on track. We help to identify potential blind spots that could cause them to fall short of their goals and create strategies to manage these risks. We focus on retirement, investments, tax, estate, insurance and education planning.”

Keeping things local is also important to Heath and his team. “We are not a bigbox brokerage shop with a one-size-fits-all cookie-cutter approach,” Heath said. “We customize our plans to fit the needs and expectations of our clients. We are big supporters of keeping things local and helping other small businesses within our community.”

If you’d like to learn more about the services ofered at Heath Wealth Management, visit its website at https://heathwealth.com/ or call Heath at 813-556-7171. Its ofce is located at 620 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon.

McAuley Fine Jewelry is now located at 201 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon and is excited to host a new grand opening event this summer. Though McAuley Fine Jewelry is still waiting on some final touches before it opens the new doors, the team is eager to share the new store with customers.

“We’re really excited to have had the opportunity to buy a building in the heart of Brandon. It’s literally the building directly behind ours,” said Jennifer McAuley, co-owner of McAuley Fine Jewelry.

Through the move, two tenants remain in the building, Divine Glow Aesthetics and Carmen’s Tailoring, while Audibel Hearing Center has moved to a location near Bill’s Prescription Center.

McAuley Fine Jewelry ofers experienced team members to aid with jewelry and watch repairs, custom design work as well as purchasing your gold. The shop has a tight group of employees, many of whom stayed with McAuley Fine Jewelry after Martin’s Jewelers closed. The team mem-

When designing a piece, the experts at the shop suggest doing research online to find images of jewelry you like. This will give inspiration and direction for the team to help create the perfect piece at your consultation. If there is a specific item you are looking for that McAuley Fine Jewelry does not have, many times the team will be able to order from one of McAuley Fine Jewelry’s U.S. vendors with next-day delivery.

When the owners of Martin’s Jewelers retired in 2017, the McAuley family took over the storefront to continue serving the area as the previous owners had. McAuley Fine Jewelry is now moving into a new building near the old location in order to continue growing and help more customers with their jewelry needs. And while it may not be Martin’s Jewelers anymore, the beloved owner of Martin’s Jewelers, Joe Martin, still works for the shop, claiming he failed retirement. McAuley Fine Jewelry is located just to the rear of it’s original location. Visit https://mcauleyfinejewelry.com/ or call the store at 813-689-8124.

Wealth Management is dedicated to helping individuals and families pursue their fnancial goals.

McAuley Fine Jewelry had spent the month of March moving and organizing while getting ready to open the new storefront.

SOUTHSHORE CHAMBER MEMBERS AID RUSKIN SENIOR CENTER BIRTHDAY CAKE TRADITION

Cake is easily the hallmark of any birthday, the dressed-up delight being perfect for capturing the excitement of growing one year wiser. Not only is blowing out the candles and secretly making a wish a joy at any age, but as clients of the Ruskin Senior Center will tell you, it is a vital tradition.

On the first Friday of every month, the Ruskin Senior Center hosts a birthday party and provides a cake to celebrate all members whose birthday is in that given month. While the center has previously relied on alternative suppliers in the past, recent changes prompted Elizabeth Barr, senior supervisor for the Ruskin Senior Center with Hillsborough County Aging Services, to reach out to the SouthShore Chamber of Commerce for help. After speaking with Barr at an Elder/ Senior Outreach Committee meeting hosted by the chamber on February 21, Melanie Davis, SouthShore Chamber of Commerce executive director, was only too happy to oblige.

After Davis issued a request on February 22 for all interested chamber members to order and provide a cake for each monthly party, within the same day, all remaining 2023 months were sponsored by these local businesses. In fact, this feat was accomplished in about one hour.

“Our chamber members are always extremely generous, and I really think that they’re just waiting for ideas on how to enhance the community and how to support

By Madeline Gardner

the needs of the community,” said Davis.

“Any time we put out a request like that, they just jump right on it. It’s incredible.”

On March 3, the first birthday party serving a cake provided by a SouthShore Chamber member was held after the clients had been served lunch, around 12:30 p.m. This cake, sponsored by Khalid Abu of Pita Kebob, was both chocolate and vanilla-flavored, with white icing and frosted orange roses.

Additional chamber members sponsoring cakes this year include Debbie Caneen, Sun Towers; Roberta Chaplain, Campaign Against Human Trafcking; Melissa Hartman, Osprey Observer; Sydney Ladner, Gabro Event Services; Minday Laing, C&S Fasteners; Rodney Ward, Claims Appraisal and Remediation Services; Sherry Webb, Green Compass Global; Wendy Yeo, Suncoast Credit Union; and Wellspring Church.

“We are so extremely appreciative of the SouthShore Chamber of Commerce and all the area businesses who are willing and able to support our senior adults in the community,” said Barr. To learn more, call 813-6721107 or visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/ en/locations/ruskin-senior-center. The center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and is located at 905 6th St. SE in Ruskin.

For more information on the SouthShore Chamber, call 813-645-1366 or visit www. southshorechamberofcommerce.org.

THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA CELEBRATES

55 YEARS IN SOLD-OUT ITZHAK PERLMAN BENEFIT CONCERT

The Florida Orchestra (TFO) shared the stage with a living legend, violin superstar Itzhak Perlman, in a sold-out, energized Mahafey Theater on March 11. Music director Michael Francis conducted a magical night of world-class entertainment to celebrate 55 years of Florida’s premier orchestra, at home in Tampa Bay.

The fundraiser — postponed from October 2022 by Hurricane Ian — was worth the wait. Undeniably the reigning virtuoso of the violin, superstar Perlman joined the orchestra to perform a night of curated film music as only he can, including the Theme from Schindler’s List, which he performed for the Academy Award-winning film; As Time Goes By from Casablanca; the love theme from Cinema Paradiso; music from Out of Africa; and more.

The concert was a resounding success in celebration of Florida’s largest professional orchestra, and the only arts organization that bridges Tampa Bay. The net proceeds benefit TFO’s high standard of artistic excellence onstage as well as robust education and community programs all year long, including free TFO Strings for Kids violin classes, youth concerts and more. Nonprofit TFO exists to inspire, educate as it builds community through the power of music.

The Florida Orchestra extends special recognition to honorary chairs Montserrat and Emmanuel Cerf, and thanks for the generosity of Perlman’s sponsor, the Cerf

Staf Report

Family; presenting orchestra sponsor PNC Bank; maestro sponsors Mark and Marianne Mahaffey and Mahafey Apartment Co.; and all VIP sponsors and patrons who help make everything TFO does possible.

The Florida Orchestra’s season continues through May. Tickets are on sale now at https://floridaorchestra.org/.

About Itzhak Perlman

Beloved for his charm, humanity as well as his talent, Perlman has received 16 Grammy Awards, four Emmy Awards, a Kennedy Center Honor, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and a Genesis Prize. Perlman has also received multiple distinctions from U.S. presidents, including a Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, in 2015. For more visit https://itzhakperlman.com/.

About Michael Francis

In his eighth season as music director of The Florida Orchestra, Francis has raised artistic excellence to new heights, strengthened the audience’s connection to the music and reinvigorated TFO’s community and education programs. The internationally acclaimed conductor also is the music director of the Mainly Mozart Festival in San Diego and principal conductor of Deutsche Staatsphilharmonie Rheinland-Pfalz in Germany. For more about Francis, visit https://floridaorchestra.org/conductors/ michael-francis/.

Itzhak Perlman, violin superstar at The Florida Orchestra.

CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S CONNECTION HOSTS LUNCHEON, MORE TO COME

The SouthShore Christian Women’s Connection (SSCWC) has been busy as of late, with more to come.

On February 22, SSCWC feature coordinator Carolyn Woodall delivered 25 gift bags for the women at Mary & Martha House. The SSCWC planning team filled the bags with goodies, necessities and lots of prayers. At the luncheon, a style show was presented with a variety of clothing from the Mary & Martha Thrift Store, located at 312 S. U.S. Hwy. 41 in Ruskin.

‘When Irish Eyes are Smiling’ was the theme for the SouthShore Christian Women’s Connection luncheon that was held on March 8 at the Life Enrichment Center at the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center (SCCUMC). Over 80 women attended the event and enjoyed the corned beef brisket, cabbage, potatoes, salad and dessert.

The feature was Miriam Bredesen. Bredesen and her husband, Tom, send eyeglasses to third-world countries. They not only send them, but they also repair, sort and fit them for their clients.

Linda Winwood, bestselling Christian children’s author, motivational speaker, storyteller and author of a book called “Colored Eggs for Jesse,” was also at the luncheon. Winwood presented ‘the real story of Easter’, which she told by

Staf Report

using plastic eggs with little articles in them. Her energy and passion were enjoyed by everyone. Winwood would love to share her story with your group/ organization, and she does not charge. You can visit her website at http://lindawinwood.com/.

The SSCWC is ‘wheeling into spring’ and invites you to join in the fun on Wednesday, April 12 at the SCCUMC’s Life Enrichment Center.

Pat Simmons, founder of Bikes For Christ, will be the feature. Bikes For Christ is a ministry that provides donated bikes for people in need, veterans, underprivileged children and seniors.

The guest speaker, Linda Moore from Gainesville, will share her story, presenting questions such as “Is it truly all about me, or is there a bigger picture and a truer happiness out there?” and “When the going gets rough, is shopping enough?” Don’t miss out on the answer to these questions and more.

Doors open at 11 a.m., and the program runs from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., with lunch provided by the SCCUMC. For reservations and additional payment details, call Amy at 317-414-9062 or email sscwcflorida@gmail.com. Reservations are due and must be paid for by Friday, April 7. For additional information and upcoming events, please visit www.facebook. com/southshorecwc/.

Notice of SWFWMD Application

Notice is hereby given that the Southwest Florida Water Management District has received Environmental Resource Permit Application Number 862716 from Sun City Hospital, Inc., whose address is One Park Plaza, Nashville, TN 37203.

Application received January 11, 2023.

Te proposed activity includes constructing a new 10,860 square foot Free-Standing Emergency Room with a stormwater pond, discharging to swale connected to FDOT stormwater system.

Project name: Apollo Beach FSER

Project size: +/- 5.22 acres.

Location: 5497 N 41 Hwy, Apollo Beach, FL 33572

Section 33, Township 31, Range 19 in Hillsborough County.

Outstanding Florida Water: No.

Aquatic preserve: No.

Te application is available for public inspection Monday through Friday at the Tampa Service Ofce, 7601 U.S. 301 North, Tampa, FL 33637. Interested persons may inspect a copy of the application and submit written comments concerning the application. Comments must include the permit application number and be received within 14 days from the days of this notice. If you wish to be notifed of intended agency action or an opportunity to request an administrative hearing regarding the application, you must send a written request referencing the permit application number to the Southwest Florida Water Management District. Regulation Performance Management Department, 2379 Broad Street, Brooksville, FL 34604-6899 or submit your request through the District’s website at www.watermatters.org

Te District does not discriminate based on disability. Anyone requiring accommodation under the ADA should contact the Regulation Performance Management Department at (352) 796-7211 or 1 (800) 423-1475. TDD only 1 (800) 231-6103.

country-style privacy to suburban-style upgrades, plus a pool with spa in a great spot close to schools, shopping, restaurants & more! The primary residence offers tile, stone, wood & other amenities throughout more than 3,250 SF, while the guest retreat has similar advantages in more than 1,000 SF. Both roofs are new just 2 years ago, & other big-ticket improvements include new AC, septic system, sprinkler system, water heater & pool pump. No deed restrictions here, so bring your RV, boat, etc. $699,000

3 full baths, & a screened lanai in a fenced, pie-shaped yard of nearly 1/4 acre. The master suite & 3 other bedrooms are downstairs while the remaining bed/bath combo is upstairs with the bonus for flexible family or guest use. Best of all, of course, it’s in FishHawk home to resort-style pools, playground parks, clubhouses, fitness centers, sports facilities, wooded trails, shops, restaurants, & some of the top schools in all of Florida! You want to live here! $575,000

Over $20 million in sales in 2022

RE/MAX Hall of Fame, Top 1% among all agents across Tampa Bay

Certified Luxury Home Specialist 31-year resident of Riverview

“I live here. I love it here. And I sell here like no one else!”

rent$2,495management. monthly

Live the Florida resort lifestyle in this just-built townhome beside the blue lagoon water park at Epperson! The new community in Wesley Chapel is booming, & you can be the first to live in this 1,760-SF home with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 1-car garage & quality$2,350amenities. monthly

Finally, this 3/2/2 is in Riverview’s Panther

Trace community with pools, parks, sports courts & more! Among these quality rentals, this delivers the most impressive lanai, wide & screened & stonepavered, overlooking a large pond beyond its fenced back yard. $2,300 monthly

SUMMER CAMPS OFFER SPECIALTY SKILLS & LEARNING FUN

It’s hard to believe but summer is just around the corner and camp registrations are open and gearing up for an active and busy camp season!

Camp Osprey LLC

For a fun, traditional camp experience, check out Camp Osprey, which is located on 204 acres of beautiful woodlands alongside the Little Manatee River in Wimauma. Camp activities include high ropes courses, ziplines, horseback riding and much more.

Mathnasium Of Riverview And Brandon

Have your child’s math skills been impacted by the last school year? Have they fallen behind? Then Camp Mathnasium will be perfect for them, ofering a typical summer camp environment with diferent learning activities.

Music Showcase/FAOPA

The Florida Academy of the Performing Arts at Music Showcase ofers summer camps for aspiring actors and musicians. With a variety of camp options in full and half-day experiences, there’s something for every young entertainer.

Patel Conservatory

The Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center is hosting a variety of week summer camps

for rising actors, musicians, and danc ers starting May 30 and running through August 4. Weekly camps will take place Monday through Friday and before and af ter care will be avail.

Kids ‘R’ Kids Circa

FishHawk

With locations in Valrico and Lith ia, Kids ‘R’ Kids has been of fering sum mer camps since 2004. This sum mer, students can sign up on a weekly basis or for the whole summer. Meals and field trips are in cluded.

High 5 Inc.

Brandon’s High 5 Inc. is inviting students to sail away for the best summer of their lives, kicking of on May 30.

YMCA

All camps begin on May 30 and run - August 4 with 10 separate sessions available Monday through Friday.

TLC’s Gypsy Haven

TLC’s Gypsy Haven offers weekly themed riding camps, ages 8-99, focusing on riding and grooming. The camps take place from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sidekicks Summer Camp

Sidekicks Martial Arts is gearing up for its Summer Camp program with martial arts, field trips and more.

D-BatSouth Shore

If you have a baseball or softball players, summer is a great time to develop skills in D-Bat South Shore’s state-of-the-art facility in Ruskin. www.Facebook.com/DBATSouthshore Navigator Academy

Navigator Academy’s full-day camp will be open for K-8th grade students with lunch and field trips included.

River Hills Country Club

Budding tennis players and golfers will find summer camps for kids ages

7-13 for all levels of players, with half and full-day camps available.

Code Wiz FishHawk

Code Wiz FishHawk is ofering full and half-day camps for coding and computers with Roblox, robotics, Minecraft, gaming and more.

Cedarkirk Camp

Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center is located on 170 acres of woodland along the Alafia River in Lithia and will hosts weekly camps starting June 11. Campers can sign up for a week or summer. Camps include all meals.

Ostingers Baseball Academy

Learn baseball from the pros at Ostingers Baseball Academy. Four weeklong sessions will take place in June and July for players ages 7-14 years old at the academy’s fields in Lithia.

FishHawk Fellowship Church

Ofering a selection of half-day sports camps starting June 5 - August 4. Look for our Summer Camp Sweepstakes link where the Osprey Observer will buy your child a week of camp at the summer camp of your choice! Or, enter now by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp Free’) contest@ ospreyobserver.com. Email inquiries to jhurst@ospreyobserver.com!Have a great summer of fun!

Make this a summer of creativity with one (or more) of the 50plus camps and classes ofered at the Patel Conservatory. If your child loves to dance, sing or emote, take a look at the courses Patel has scheduled this summer. Whether your child is a beginner or already practicing their Tony Award® speech, Patel has a class to fit their skill level.

Patel students enjoy the advantage of instructors who have real-world experience in the fields of dance, music and theater. Its professionals will teach your burgeoning star the skills necessary to excel in their field. Patel also can fill them in on the nuts-and-bolts aspect of a career in the arts.

It’s an ideal environment for a young person considering a career in the performing arts. Patel has an impressive track record in this regard, with alumni appearing on Broadway, television, national tours and more. Patel alumni also fill vital roles ofstage as well, such as being directors, producers, writers and technicians.

Patel’s Summer Intensives let young performers immerse themselves in their craft, whether the focus is on the voice,

CAMP MATHNASIUM OFFERS ACTIVITIES TO MAKE MATH FUN

By Lily Belcher

Staf Report

a musical instrument, acting or ballet. Many intensives conclude with a ticketed performance open to the public.

There are plenty of non-intensive opportunities as well: beginners’ classes in ballet, jazz and tap; a theater apprentice workshop; classes on adapting literature for the stage; workshops for repertory orchestra and opera; and so much more.

Individual instruction from members of our music and theater faculty is also available, as it is year-round. Learn oneon-one with a professional actor or musician. Individual lessons for musicians are available for beginners and intermediates, as well as more experienced players preparing for a professional career.

Scholarships are available to help cover the cost of tuition. The deadline for financial aid applications is Sunday, April 2.

Learn more about Patel by attending one of its summer open houses: Saturday, March 25 from 9-10 a.m. and Monday, May 22 from 6-7 p.m.

The Patel Conservatory is located at 1010 N. Macinnes Pl. in Tampa. For more information, call 813-222-1040 or visit www.patelconservatory.org.

Mathnasium is hosting its first summer camp since the coronavirus shutdown at the Brandon location from the end of May to early August to help fight ‘the summer slide.’

Camp Mathnasium will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m.-12 Noon for students through sixth grade with a ‘Wild About MATH’ theme. Additionally, the Brandon location will be adding the Great Foundations program for pre-K through kindergarten students following requests from parents and families.

Camp Mathnasium will help students fight the summer slide — the months of learning loss that occurs between the school years.

“I hope that [through] Camp Mathnasium they see how much fun math can be and that it helps keep their skills sharp during the summer,” said franchise owner, operator and center director Becky McDaniels.

Camp Mathnasium will run alongside the year-round Mathnasium program,

but camp days will o f er a typical summer camp environment with different learning activities. Students will begin their morning with an hour of the Mathnasium program to provide an individualized learning lesson for each student. They will then participate in an activity and finish the day with a STEAM activity.

During registration, students can enroll in a minimum of six and maximum of 12 STEAM activities throughout the summer. Students will be divided by age during these activities, allowing older students to take a more in-depth approach.

Families are encouraged to register early so Mathnasium can prepare for the right number of students. A $25 early-bird discount for those that register before Sunday, April 30 will be o f ered. For specific pricing or to learn more about Camp Mathnasium, Great Foundations or Mathnasium’s year-round program, visit www.mathnasium.com.

Patel students enjoy real-world experience in the felds of dance, music and theater.

Camp Mathnasium ofers fun and engaging STEAM activities throughout the summer.

SUMMER’S HERE AND THE TIME IS RIGHT FOR THE BEACH! VACATION! THE ARTS AT PATEL CONSERVATORY

HIGH 5 INC. SUMMER CAMP WILL FEATURE A CRUISE THEME FOR CAMPERS

High 5 Inc. is hosting its annual summer camp to bring kids “Around the World in 50 Days” with cruisethemed activities throughout the summer.

“Each week, the kids will be visiting a diferent country. During their trip, they will learn about its uniqueness, history, culture and so much more,” said director of family experience Jada Spano.

The camp will run from Tuesday, May 30 to Friday, August 4. Each day, participants can arrive as early as 7 a.m. and leave as late as 6 p.m. to accommodate parents’ work schedules over the summer.

Until the camp ofcially starts at 9 a.m., campers can take a High 5 Summer Cruise photo with their family and go to their stateroom, a High 5 classroom separating campers by grade level. The counselor-to-student ratio will be around 1-to-25, but it is often less since activity specialists will support employees during excursions.

Daily excursions will be available for all campers from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Each hour

RIVER HILLS COUNTRY CLUB JUNIOR SUMMER CAMP HELPS CHILDREN LEARN NEW SPORTS WHILE HAVING FUN

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

By Lily Belcher

will feature several diferent options for campers to participate in every day.

“Our travelers learn the basics for familiar and some new sports, such as cricket, soccer, handball, pickleball, tennis, even a little splashball. Meanwhile, travelers that would prefer the nonathletic route will have the opportunity to explore everything from creating their own boomerangs and rain sticks of Australia to carnival costumes and rhythms of the Caribbean islands,” said regional director Nicole Brown-Collins.

Campers will have the option to purchase a lunch or snack, but they are encouraged to pack one lunch and two snacks. They should arrive in a bathing suit and have a change of clothes in their backpacks.

The camp will cost $175 per camper each week for nonmembers, but High 5 members can register for $160.

To register, visit www.high5inc.org/ camp-3.

Sending your children to summer camp where they can get out of the house during those long summer days, make new friends and learn a new sport can be really beneficial at their young age.

River Hills Country Club in Valrico is ofering a Junior Summer Camp for children ages 7-13, Monday through Friday, with days packed full of golf, tennis, swimming and more. Summer camp can be attended in half or full days.

River Hills has multiple summer camp options, such as Golf Camp or Tennis Clinic and Sports Camp, which all involve learning a new sport and spending time with friends while also enjoying other summer camp fun.

The goal of the Junior Summer Camp at River Hills is to combine the right amount of sport instruction with other interesting activities in order to keep children engaged and excited about learning the sport and its etiquette.

River Hills’ Junior Summer Camp will take children from beginner players to competition-ready ones by starting small and building their individual skills. The coaches at River Hills pride themselves in ofering a low-pressure environment where children

can gain respect for the game and fellow players through practicing with their peers.

“Golf camps ofered this summer at River Hills Country Club will expose children to the great game of golf in a nurturing and educational environment,” said Bryan McManis, general manager at River Hills Country Club. “We want to introduce the game in a fun way so they can practice and apply their skills as they progress through the program.”

The River Hills U.S. Kids Golf Curriculum is taught by a PGA-certified instructor, and Tennis Camp will be led by a United States Professional Tennis Association-certified instructor. On top of golf, tennis and other sports lessons, the Junior Summer Camp will also include swimming, movies and other camp activities.

Golf, tennis and other sports at River Hills include instruction and conditioning to build stamina and endurance. Sports instruction will be provided based on the age and level of the children at the camp.

To enroll your children in a River Hills Country Club summer camp, please call 813-653-1554, ext. 242 or visit https://riverhillscountryclub.com/.

River Hills Country Club’s Junior Summer Camp can provide instruction for every level of player.

Daily excursions at High 5 Inc.’s summer camp will feature water and feld activities.

TLC’s Gypsy Haven

Located at 4325 Keysville Rd. in Lithia, TLC’s Gypsy Haven ofers weekly themed riding camps, for ages 8-99, focused on riding and grooming. The camps take place from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. from Monday, June 5 to Friday, August 4.

Students pack their own lunch, snacks and drinks and are encouraged to wear light pants or leggings, but boots are a must. The camp boasts one teacher, one aide and one volunteer per 10 students.

For more information, visit www.tlcsfarms. com, call Tammi at 813-842-4236 or email TLCS2867@aol.com.

Te Patel Conservatory

The Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center is hosting a variety of weekly summer camps for rising actors, musicians and dancers starting Tuesday, May 30 and running through Friday, August 4. Weekly camps will take place Monday through Friday, with pre- and post-camp available for an additional $30 each or $50 for both extensions.

Information on the camps ofered as well as specific dates, times and pricing are available in the 2023 summer camps and classes brochure on the Straz Center’s website at www.strazcenter.org. For more information on specific details of the camps, contact the admissions staf at 813-222-1040 or 800955-1045 (toll-free).

Tampa YMCA

Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA

kids crave at one of its many summer camp locations.

YMCA camps ofer an array of fun where activity specialists will lead campers through various experiences each day, including swimming, science, high ropes, outdoor education, nature encounters, horseback riding, canoeing, visual arts and more.

All camps begin on Tuesday, May 30 and run through Friday, August 4 with 10 separate sessions available from Monday to Friday. Book one weeklong session or book them all. Camp programming runs from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. with free early-morning care beginning at 7 a.m. and free afternoon extended care until 6 p.m. Prices start at only $184 per week for YMCA members and are open to the public. Discounted rates for members, early registration, siblings, multicamp sign-ups and early-bird registration are available.

For more information on specific locations and pricing and to register, visit www.tampaymca.org/programs/camp/summer-camp.

Camp Osprey LLC

For a fun, traditional camp experience, check out Camp Osprey, which is located on 204 acres of beautiful woodlands alongside the Little Manatee River in Wimauma. Camp activities include high ropes courses, ziplines, horseback riding and much more.

Camps take place every week starting on Sunday, June, and campers can sign up for a week or the whole summer. Day and overnight options are available, with day camp costing $325 a week and overnight being $795. Meals are provided and snacks can be purchased in the camp canteen.

New this year is COSMO Camp Osprey Smoky Mountain Outdoor adventures for groups of 12 campers ages 13-16 years old.

The camp is located at 18050 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Wimauma and can be reached at 941-9286860. For more information, visit www. camposprey.com.

Kids ‘R’ Kids

Kids ‘R’ Kids has been ofering summer camps since 2004. This summer, students can sign up on a weekly basis or for the whole summer from Tuesday, May 30 to Friday, August 4.

“Camp will showcase unique weekly themes designed to make your campers smile, think, explore, collaborate and grow in exciting new directions,” said Fernandes.

“Our camp includes all meals and field trips to a Rays game, Sea Screamer in Clearwater, Ringling Museum, Treasure Island Fun Center and much more.”

Kids ‘R’ Kids Circa FishHawk is located at 5815 Kids Crossing Dr. in Lithia and can be reached at 813-654-7000. Visit its website at wwwkrkcirca.com for more information and to register.

Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center

Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center is located on 170 acres of woodland alongside the Alafia River in Lithia.

Camps take place weekly from Sunday to Friday starting on Sunday, June 11 and finishing on Friday, August 4; campers can sign up for a week or the whole summer. Cedarkirk ofers overnight camps for older students, and younger campers in grades one through three can attend a shorter threeday camp. Camps range in price from $465 a week to $510 and include all meals plus two daily snacks. Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center is located at 1920 Streetman Dr. in Lithia and can be reached at 813-685-4224. For more information and to register, visit www.cedarkirk. org.

Code Wiz FishHawk

Code Wiz FishHawk is located in Park Square at 16132 Churchview Dr. in Lithia. It will be running full and half-day camps for students interested in computers and coding. Camp activities will include Roblox, robotics, Minecraft and building your own 2D/3D video games. The half-day camp runs from 9 a.m.-12 Noon and from 1-4 p.m.; a full-day is 9 a.m.-4 p.m. A week of half-day camp is $350 and $550 for a fullday camp; discounts are available for siblings, multicamp and early-bird registrations. For more information, visit www.thecodewiz. com/fishhawk-fl or call 813-820-6583.

JUUNNIIOOR R SUMMMER C CAMP

US Kids Golf Curriculum taught by PGA Certified Instructors can take virtually any player from absolute beginner to an elite competition player in simple, incremental steps.

A positive no pressure learning environment where respect for the game of golf and fellow players is taught.

A fun experience that includes golf instruction, rules and etiquette with additional non golf fun activities in the afternoon available i.e. swimming, movies and other camp activities.

It is the goal of this camp to combine just the right amount of golf instruction to keep students engaged in enjoying the game of golf.

has what

Mathnasium Of Riverview & Brandon Mathnasium’s personalized learning plans are proven to improve grades and give them a head start going into the new school year. With live face-to-face instruction, either in-center or online, its summer programs are designed to work in tandem with the other summer camps and activities. Just two or three one-hour sessions per week are all kids need to help keep their math skills on track for the upcoming school year, and your child will continue to enjoy summer because Mathnasium makes learning math fun. Space is limited so don’t delay in registering your child. Call today for a free assessment.

Mathnasium of Brandon (www.mathnasium.com/brandon) is located at 1048 Bloomingdale Ave. and can be reached at 813-655-6284, and Mathnasium of Riverview (www.mathnasium.com/riverview) is located at 1388 U.S. 301 and can be reached at 813-565-1102. Coming soon is a new location at 13388 S. U.S. 301 in Riverview.

Music Showcase

The Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA) at Music Showcase ofers summer camps for aspiring actors and musicians. With a variety of camp options in full and halfday experiences, there’s something for every young entertainer.

The traditional camp exposes campers to music and more. You can sign up for one weeklong camp or you can sign up for multiple camps. Camps are structured by age, ability and interest.

Its other camp option is a musical theater camp, where campers work together over the course of a few weeks to put on a show.

For further details, visit www.faopa.org or call 813490-2787. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

River Hills Junior Summer Camp

Do you have a budding tennis or golf player in your home? Sign them up for camp at River Hills Country Club, which aims to combine just the right amount of sport instruction with fun to keep your children loving the sport. Camps are suitable for all ages from 7-13 years old and all levels of players, having a U.S. Kids Golf curriculum being taught by PGA-certified instructors and tennis instruction with drills and conditioning from a USPTA instructor. Half and full-day sessions are available. River Hills Country Club is located at 3943 New River Hills Pkwy. in Valrico. For more information on summer camps, visit www.riverhillscountryclub.com or call 813-653-1554, ext. 242.

High 5 Inc.

Brandon’s High 5 Inc. is inviting students to go “Around the World In 50 Days,” kicking of on Tuesday, May 30 and running through Friday, August 4.

Each week students will be visiting a diferent country and learn about its uniqueness, history, culture and so much more.

Camp is ofered Monday through Friday

from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. at High 5, which is located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon. Campers can sign up for individual weeks throughout the summer or the entire summer. To register, visit www.high5inc.org/ camp-3.

Camp costs $175 a week per child for nonmembers and High 5 members can register for $160.

To learn more, visit www.high5inc.org or call 813-689-0908.

D-BAT South Shore

Does your child love baseball or softball? Help them develop their skills this summer at D-BAT South Shore, located at 351 30th St. NE in Ruskin. Summer camp programs are being ofered from Monday, May 29 to Friday, July 28, and state-of-the-art technology will be used to allow campers to enhance and improve basic baseball and softball skills. This is a great opportunity for students to get involved with others who share their desire to grow and develop their ball skills. Camp runs on a weekly basis from 8:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and costs $175 a week for platinum members. Additional information can be found on its website at https://dbatsouthshore. com/ or by calling 813-645-3228.

Navigator Academy

Summer camp at Navigator Academy is a full-day camp open for incoming kindergarteners to eighth graders. Weekly and daily rates are available, with field trips and lunch included. Navigator Academy is located

at 1101 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Additional information can be found on its website at www.navigatoracademyvalrico.com.

Ostingers Baseball Academy

Learn baseball from the pros at Ostingers Baseball Academy. With a combined 30 years of professional playing and coaching experience, Ostingers Baseball coaches are ready to provide young athletes with safe fun this summer. Four weeklong sessions will take place in June and July for players ages 7-14 years old at the academy’s fields in Lithia. Your child will develop a better understanding of the game of baseball through instruction, drills and games. Having a good time while learning the fundamentals will be the main focus of this camp. To learn more, visit https://ostingbaseball.com/ or call 813-737-3000.

FishHawk Fellowship Church

FishHawk Fellowship Church, located at 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia is ofering a selection of half-day sports camps that include basketball, soccer and flag football running from Monday, June 5 until Friday, August 4. Most camps are for first through fifth graders, with some available for first through eighth graders from Monday June 26 to Friday, August 4. All camps run from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., and the price is $105 for the week. For additional information, call 813-655-7431.

Location: M-W Ostingers Academy • 8711 Lithia Pinecrest Road Th-F Field for games and other activities

Age Group: 7 - 14 yrs

Time: Cost: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm

$250/camper

$225/ multi camp or multi child discount

*Must register for multi camp discount all at once

For More Information: Call 813.737.3000 or visit our website at www.OstingBaseball.com

HIT A HOME RUN WITH D-BAT SOUTH SHORE THIS SUMMER

Looking for a way to help fill your child’s summer? Look no further than D-BAT South Shore, where summer camp programs are being offered to help your child develop their baseball or softball skills while having a great time and making new friends. D-BAT ofers state-ofthe-art technology that is implemented into the training, which allows campers to enhance and improve basic baseball and softball skills. Some of this technology includes, but is not limited to, Hack Attack pitching machines and Blast Motion hitting technology. Another great aspect of this camp is that all it requires of the young players is to show up with the basic gear for the sport along with lunch and water, then they are good to go. This is a great opportunity for kids to get involved with others who share their same interest and a desire to grow and develop their skills while engaging in classic baseball and softball comradery. The facility features both indoor and outdoor setups to ensure that camp can continue unimpeded by the elements, while the indoor elements of the site are climate-con-

By Jonathan Hurst

trolled. With a camper-to-instructor ratio of 8-1, every player who comes through the camp will be well coached and attended to.

D-BAT South Shore also features nine batting cages along with pitching lanes to ensure that campers are getting their skill practice in. If they are doing well, there are also end-of-week prizes for the skill leaders of the week.

This summer camp runs on a week to week basis from Monday, May 29 through Friday, July 28, and can be attained for as little as $175 for the entire week for platinum members. Further discounts for early sign-ups, multicamp sign-ups and signing up siblings together. Every camp runs on the weekdays with the drop-of opening at 8:45 a.m. and the latest pickup being at 2:30 p.m.

D-BAT South Shore is located at 351 30th St. NE in Ruskin. For more information, visit its website at https://dbatsouthshore.com/, go to its Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/DBATSouthshore or call 813-645-3228.

TAMPA YMCA HOSTS SUMMER CAMPS TO TEACH KIDS SKILLS WHILE HAVING FUN

It’s that time of year again where you have to begin to decide what summer camp is best for your children. With over 130 years of experience in providing a safe place for kids in the community, Tampa YMCA Summer Camp is a great choice for filling those long summer days with something exciting and educational.

The YMCA ofers a variety of summer camp options, from art camp to adventure camp there is something for everyone.

“Summer camp is more than singalongs and splash pads,” said Michelle Leahy, camp director at Campo Family YMCA. “Campers at the Tampa YMCA ACA-accredited summer day camps are given a safe space to discover who they are and what they want to become while experiencing fun, friends and adventure.”

Summer camps are open from Tuesday, May 30 to Friday, August 4 and range from $184-$225 a week for YMCA members and $235-$298 for non-YMCA members. Multiweek teen camps start at $330 for members and $410 for non-YMCA members.

Campers are expected to wear cool, comfortable clothing that can get dirty, closed-toe and closed-back shoes as well as

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

sunscreen, and they should bring a bathing suit and towel since campers will have the opportunity to swim in the YMCA pools.

Join in on the fun in one of the many locations in Brandon, Riverview, Plant City, Tampa and more.

Tampa YMCA

Summer Camps being ACA-accredited means they underwent a thorough review on operations by the American Camp Association (ACA), from staf qualifications and training to emergency management, and complied with the highest standards in the industry. With ACA accreditation, the YMCA is one of the safest places to get your kids to have fun out of the house this summer, as not only are staf certified in first aid and CPR, but they are also certified fun and learning experts.

Tampa YMCA Summer Camp prides itself in helping kids explore personal interests, build self-esteem, develop interpersonal skills, discover the creativity and health benefits of the outdoors and make lasting friendships and memories.

Visit https://tampaymca.org/letscamp or find the YMCA on social media at TampaYMCA.

Tampa YMCA Summer Camps help children learn about themselves while developing friendships.

BUSCH GARDENS FOOD & WINE FEST RETURNS WITH HEADLINE CONCERTS

Busch Gardens

Tampa Bay’s Food & Wine Festival will ofer guests a oneof-a-kind experience of flavor and rhythm from various latitudes of the world.

The highly anticipated event will provide guests with an elevated culinary experience and the opportunity to enjoy live musical performances from some of the most popular artists in the entertainment industry. The event runs through Sunday, May 21, featuring a total of 20 food and beverage cabins for guests to sip and savor, as well as 23 live concerts. The Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival is included with park admission. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is dishing up a variety of headlining concerts for every taste as part of the Food & Wine Festival. Twenty-three headlining acts spanning genres of pop, rock, country and more will take the Festival Field Stage for 11 weekends jam-packed with rhythm and flavor, including Kansas, Maddie & Tae, SWV, Dustin Lynch, Rodney Atkins, Flo Rida, Jeremy Camp, +LIVE+, The Fab Four, 38 Special, Mitchell Tenpenny, Air Supply, Gabby Barrett, Hoobastank and WALK THE MOON.

The Food & Wine Festival transforms into a melting pot of Latin cultures featuring

world-renowned iconic dishes and live música from award-winning Latin artists. Cinco de Mayo and Viva la Música take place every Saturday and Sunday from Friday, May 5 to Sunday, May 21. For this Latin fiesta, guests can expect a complete transformation of the festival area and enjoy authentic Latin gastronomy and entertainment. The full Latin artist lineup for 2023 is: The Como La Flor Band, Celia Vive – A Tribute to Celia Cruz, El Gran Combo, Toño Rosario, Grupo Niche, Elvis Crespo and Luisito Ayala.

All headlining concert performances are included with park admission and will take place in the Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival main stage located past the cabins on the Festival Pathway.

The absolute best way to experience the flavors of the Food & Wine Festival at Busch Gardens is with a Food & Wine Sampler Lanyard. Starting at $70 and redeemable at the numerous cabins located throughout the park, sampler lanyards ofer the best value for guests and will be available in quantities of 10 and 15. To view showtimes and purchase reserved seating and VIP packages, guests can visit www.buschgardenstampa.com.

SUMMER OF SONG AND DANCE RETURNS WITH MUSIC SHOWCASE

For a summer of song and dance look no further than the Music Showcase from the Florida Academy of Performing Arts. Here, the campers will be immersed in the world of performing with a variety of options to get involved. Whether your child wants to just test the waters or is a full-fledged theater enthusiast, there are plenty of options.

For those who are a little unsure, there are full and half-day options for the weeklong camp Music and More, where students will interact with multiple avenues of performing, such as acting, singing, dancing and more. Students will also be exposed to instruments to see if anything clicks for them, as well as general art. Drop-o f time for Music and More opens at 8 a.m., and the latest pickup time is at 6 p.m.

Music Showcase has eight weeks of Music and More summer camp.

By Jonathan Hurst

ing about how to put on a production and all the elements that go into that. These students will work on skills such as acting, singing and various theater techniques and practices. This camp concludes with a performance of a play featuring the campers. Musical Theater Camp runs from 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

“There is something for all ages and abilities,” said academy director Danielle Sanchez.

For those with a bit more of a commitment to performing arts, there is the Musical Theater Camp, which is a bit more intensive when it comes to the theater aspect. This camp runs for two weeks and involves the students learn -

The Music and More camp runs weekly from Tuesday, May 30 through Friday, August 4, and Musical Theater camp has the same time frame but on a two-week schedule. There is a one-time $30 registration fee with the cost of the Music and More at $230 a week and $275 for the Musical Theater Camp. There are scholarships and discounts for siblings available as well.

For further details, visit www.faopa. org or call 813-490-2787. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

REGISTER NOW FOR 2023 SUMMER CAMP!

Also hiring for 2023 Summer Camp Counselors & Runners.

Summer Camp Includes:

Pools, Laser Tag, Diving boards, Customized weekly themes, Ofsite fieldtrips, Video game rooms, Onsite fieldtrips, Playgrounds, Arts & Crafts, Indoor sports, Outdoors sports, S.T.E.M activities & so much more!

Ofering at 3 loctions:

High 5, Inc. Main Campus, Symmes Elementary, and Fishhawk Creek Elementary

(813) 689-0908

405 Beverly Blvd Brandon, FL 33511-5507

PLANES, TRAINS & AUTOMOBILES COMES TO PLANT CITY FOR HANDS-ON DAY

Staf Report

TAMPA BAY RODEO AND FAMILY FESTIVAL RETURNS IN APRIL

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles presented by Tampa International Airport is a beloved one-day community event featuring a wide variety of family activities held each year at the Plant City Airport since 2010. It was one of the last public events held in 2020 just before the COVID crisis shuttered most gatherings, and after a 2-year hiatus it is making its highly anticipated 11th annual return on April 22, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Featured highlights will be numerous real aircraft on display, radio-controlled aircraft displays and demonstrations, a large car show, and operating model train layouts. A major LEGO display is scheduled featuring all modes of transportation. First responder vehicles and personnel along with train safety vehicles and equipment will also be in the lineup. There will be many hands-on stations for kids, including STEM education exhibits and flight simulators from SUN ‘n FUN’s Aerospace Center for Excellence, Young Eagles discovery flights conducted by Plant City Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 1178, Scout merit badge opportunities, a pinewood derby, and many other activities. Younger children will enjoy inflatable bounce houses and other fun adventures just for them! Food trucks and local vendor displays will also be part of the lineup where area businesses can showcase their products and services to attendees.

Trains & Automobiles

Don’t miss the return of this annual community event. Planes Trains & Automobiles is fun for the whole family.

PT&A Committee Chairman Jason Jones is the founder of the event, and he says that the return of this fan-favorite community event is very welcome.

“Planes, Trains, & Automobiles has become one of Plant City’s signature events that we really look forward to, and to have it return postCOVID to serve our community is really exciting”, he said. “The purpose of the event has always been to give families an afordable day together discovering the wonders of transportation, introducing them to not only aircraft and aviation opportunities at their local airport but a wide variety of “how things work” displays and fun educational activities to capture the imaginations of our local youth.”

The event is managed by the Tampa Bay Aviation Association and presented by Tampa International Airport. The scholarships will be for flight training, mechanic, and professional career education. Come and join the fun!

Parking is FREE, ticket pricing is $7.25 online in advance, $10 at the gate. Visit www.mytbaa.org/PTA for tickets and event information.

Summer at Mathnasium!

Bigger and better than ever, the Tampa Bay Rodeo and Family Festival, presented by Bartow Ford, gallops into the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds from Friday through Sunday, April 1416 with three fun-filled days of action, activities and eats.

On the Friday and Saturday nights, cowboys and cowgirls compete in the rodeo through bull riding, barrel racing and bronco busting. Parents can register their littlest cowpokes on-site for the very popular mutton bustin’.

The evenings begin with the Family Festival prior to the rodeo, with delicious food, exciting games, amusing animals and live music on the Bud Light Entertainment Stage. New this year, plan to come back on Sunday for the Family Festival to enjoy all the day’s oferings and live music from different musical artists.

Tampa-area and Nashville recording artist Randy McNeeley takes the stage on Friday and Saturday nights, and nationally touring country artists Craig Campbell and Canaan Smith each perform on Sunday afternoon. Everyone will have a rip-roaring good time at the Family Festival where guests can participate in a host of challenges, including riding the mechanical bull and axe

throwing. The littlest wranglers can have fun with face painting, an interactive barnyard where they can pet and feed the critters, camel and pony rides and other fun activities and games like giant Jenga and an inflatable slide. Tasty grub that will please even the littlest wrangler is available throughout the entire event, including barbecue, corn dogs, fried Oreos, turkey legs, tacos, cotton candy and much more. There’s something for everyone at this spring extravaganza.

The Tampa Bay Rodeo is an EBA-sanctioned event. Bulls, broncs and barrels are presented by 5S Bucking Bulls, based in Lithia. Competitors in EBA rodeos range in age from 7-55 years old, and at the Tampa Bay Rodeo there will be around 40 men and women competing.

Gates open at 4 p.m., and the rodeo begins at 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday; Sunday’s Family Festival is from 12 Noon- 5 p.m.

The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds are located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover at the intersection of State Road 60 and Sydney Washer Road, east of Brandon. Visit https://hillsboroughcountyfair.com/ for tickets and more information.

Photo courtesy of Plant City Planes

Te Tampa Bay Rodeo and Family Festival, presented by Bartow Ford, gallops into Hills-borough County Fairgrounds from Friday through Sunday, April 14-16.

FIRST EXPERIENCED AUTISM ALLIANCE GOLF TOURNAMENT TO BE HELD ON APRIL 28

Join Experienced Autism Alliance in helping to spread awareness and show support for families afected by autism at its first annual Golf ‘Fore Autism’ Tournament & Fundraiser.

“The funds raised at our charity tournament will allow Experienced Autism Alliance to continue assisting, supporting and empowering parents and caregivers with children and adults with autism throughout the year in our community,” said Tanya Hines, organizer of the event.

The golf tournament itself is held by Experienced Autism Alliance of Florida and will raise money to donate to and help those afected by autism. Since April is Autism Awareness Month, Hines and Experienced Autism Alliance believe this is the best time to hold the event. In addition, there’s no better time to support a local Hillsborough County charity.

“The golf tournament will be a fun-filled, 18-hole charity golf competition on Friday, April 28, 2023, at Freedom Fairways Golf Course, Sun City,” said Hines.

Check-in time for the tournament will be held at 7 a.m., with the ball drops at 8:15 a.m. and a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. Everyone is encouraged to enter in teams of four or individually. The individual entry fee is $100 and will include the golf entry itself,

TAMPA THEATRE PRESENTS ANNUAL FAMILY FAVORITES CLASSIC MOVIE SERIES

By Kathy L. Collins

By Meghan Reyes

one drink ticket and a ticket for both breakfast and lunch. The foursome entry fee is $400 and will consist of golf entries, drink tickets for each person in your party, breakfast and lunch tickets as well as entries into the putting contest.

Each participant in the golf tournament will be treated to a continental breakfast before the ball drops. Competitors will also be treated to a lunch consisting of pulled pork, chicken tenders, baked beans and coleslaw. Jell-O shots and cocktails will be provided as well for those with drink tickets.

There will be a few miscellaneous activities too, such as the wagon of cheer rafe, the lotto board rafe and a ball drop Rafe. Other contests will include the hole-in-one contest and the longest-drive contest. Rafe baskets will also be ofered for everyone to enter with a minimum value of $50.

Experienced Autism Alliance of Florida would also like to thank RE/MAX Bayside in Apollo Beach for being the top event sponsor. The charity also encourages other businesses and individuals to sponsor the event, as no donation is too small.

The golf tournament will be held on April 28 at the Freedom Fairways Golf Course & Tennis Club and run from 7 a.m.-12 Noon. Please visit http://autismalliancefl.org/become-an-event-sponsor-or-vendor/.

Tampa Theatre will present the 10th annual Family Favorites classic movie series during the month of April. Tampa Theatre has been a favorite destination for area moviegoers for generations. This April, the next generation of young fans will get the chance to see some of their parents’ most beloved childhood films on the big screen.

Tampa Theatre will also be o f ering a discounted ticket rate for children ages 3-12. Older children will be admitted for just $8, and an adult ticket is $10. It is hoped that the discounted ticket price will appeal to families looking for an a f ordable weekend outing in downtown Tampa.

Tampa Teatre will once again present its Family Favorites classic movie series this April.

Jill Witecki, Tampa Theatre’s vice president and director of marketing, said, “This is the only classic movie series for which we o f er a child’s price.” Witecki added, “While many of our summer and holiday classic o f erings are family-friendly, this is the series that we program specifically with families in mind. I want parents to be able to introduce their kids to some of their own favorite movies from childhood and ex -

perience that nostalgia of seeing them on the big screen again.”

Come join us on Sunday, April 9 at 3 p.m. for a showing of the fantasy The NeverEnding Story

The film is rated PG.

On Sunday, April 16 at 3 p.m., Tampa Theatre will present the drama Akeelah and the Bee . The film is rated PG. See the sci-fi thriller Tron on Sunday, April 23 at 3 p.m. The film is rated PG.

Finally, on Sunday, April 30 at 3 p.m., Tampa Theatre will present the Disney animated classic Toy Story . The film is rated G.

Prior to the showing of Toy Story , guests can pose in front of the green screen and take home a free 4” by 6” souvenir photo. This special event is made possible courtesy of presenting sponsor Bank of America. Guests can get their photo starting at 2 p.m. in the Tampa Theatre lobby.

Tickets for the Family Favorites classic movies are available at the box o f ce, located at 711 N. Franklin St. in downtown Tampa, or online at www.tampatheatre. org.

INTERACTIVE TWINKLE, TWINKLE LITTLE STAR PLAY COMING TO A LIBRARY NEAR YOU

The City of Tampa’s Creative Arts Theatre Company, in partnership with Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative (HCPLC), is excited to present a live children’s theater experience. Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star by Ernie Nolan is an interactive play that serves to remind the audience that mistakes happen, but no problem is too big if you ask for help.

This immersive and exciting show encourages children to participate by using props in the cozy, darkened performance space. In this story, a new galactic recruit, a missing star and a bit of unexpected mayhem create the world of the Star Keepers. The Star Keepers must ensure each star is awake and ready to shine every night, but what happens when one goes missing? You follow the procedures, of course!

This play is recommended for young audiences ages 2-6. Due to the interactive nature of this experience, the attendance is limited to 40 people for each performance.

Additionally, for those who may be sensory sensitive, the show will take place in a smaller four-sided, darkened space so that participants can see the glowing and twinkling lights (representing stars) held by the performers.

SOMETHING BIG IS COMING TO ZOOTAMPA AT LOWRY PARK

Staf Report

Local performances of Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star can be seen at these libraries: Tuesday, April 11 at 11 a.m. at the SouthShore Regional Library; Wednesday, April 12 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the Riverview Public Library; and Thursday, April 27 at 3 p.m. at the Ruskin Branch Library.

Creative Arts Theatre is the City of Tampa’s resident professional theater company for young audiences. A staf of five professional artists create and perform innovative theater experiences, inspired by classic and contemporary children’s literature, with a mission to encourage literacy throughout Hillsborough County through the magic of live performance. Over the past 50 years, they have performed for more than 1 million children and their families. Visit www.tampa.gov/parks-and-recreation/ activities-recreation/arts-and-theatre/creative-arts-theatre for more information and upcoming shows.

For additional showtimes and location details for Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star and other HCPLC programs, visit https://hcplc. org/.

There’s always something new and exciting to look forward to at Florida’s most visited cultural institution, and one has just begun in ZooTampa at Lowry Park. Join in with ZooTampa to experience BUGTOPIA, a limited-time family-friendly event that opened on February 25. This larger-than-life exhibit is free with zoo admission or membership and features 13 enormous animatronic bugs that will amaze and educate guests in fun and unique ways.

BUGTOPIA enables guests to glimpse into the world from a bug’s perspective, delight in their bizarre beauty and reflect on what we can learn from their brilliant behaviors. Roles will be reversed as guests venture into a bug’s world where they will find themselves looking up into the eyes of a larger-than-life Mexican red-knee tarantula or at the tail of a mighty emperor scorpion looming more than 10 feet in the air.

“Bugs are fascinating creatures, and we’re proud to be able to share them with guests of all ages in BUGTOPIA,” said chief operating ofcer Scott Rose. “This exhibit is full of enormous anima-

Music & Theater Summer Camps

The Florida Academy of Performing Arts

Music & More Camp

(813) 490-ARTS (2787)

CAMPS FILL FAST!

Register online at FAOPA.org

402

tronic bugs and insects that show what these animals look like close up and how they’ve perfectly adapted to the world around them — our guests will never look at bugs the same way again.”

In addition to all the buzz from BUGTOPIA, the zoo is kicking of its extended springtime hours. During the months of April, the zoo will stay open until 7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park is operated by the Lowry Park Zoological Society, an independent 501(c)(3) charitable organization committed to excellence in conservation, education, recreation and research. The zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is recognized as Florida’s leading and most attended zoological cultural institution.

It is located at 1101 W. Sligh Ave. in Tampa and is open seven days a week (except Thanksgiving and Christmas) from 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., with extended hours for select events. For more information, visit www.zootampa.org or follow it on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Musical Arts

For All Ages

Full and half-day week-long camps, plus daily drop-ins

• Free early drop off and late pick up

• Activities to explore instruments, acting, singing and art

• Themed weeks: Disney Villians, Harry Potter, Super Mario

• Scholarships and sibling discounts

Musical Theater Camps

• Productions for all ages and skill levels

• Elementary, Middle School, and High School productions

• Broadway Boot Camp - Broadway Artists To Attend

• Visit FAOPA.org for shows, schedules, and performance dates

Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star by Ernie Nolan will be performed as an immersive and exciting play by the Creative Arts Teatre Company.

ZOOTAMPA AT LOWRY PARK VOTED AMONG TOP 10 ZOOS IN THE U.S.

It’s ofcial: The votes are in, and ZooTampa at Lowry Park and its David A. Straz, Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center secured the honor of being named among the ‘Best Zoos’ and ‘Best Zoo Exhibits’ in the 2023 USATODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Travel Awards.

Coming in at No. 6 among the ‘Best Zoos,’ ZooTampa is recognized as a leader in conservation, animal care and education, as it is home to many critically endangered, threatened and vulnerable species.

Ranking No. 4 on the list of ‘Best Zoo Exhibits,’ the David A Straz, Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center is the first nonprofit, acute care facility of its kind specifically dedicated to critical care for wild manatees, and one of just four contracted federally permitted manatee rehabilitation centers in the state of Florida. It continues to be at the forefront of protecting and saving sick, injured and orphaned manatees.

“We are honored to have been recognized in the 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards and thank our guests, members, employees and residents for their continued support throughout the voting process,” said President and CEO Joe Couceiro. “Tampa Bay is an award-winning city in so many areas, and we are proud to add another accolade

and point of pride to our amazing community.” The zoo began in the 1930s as a ‘municipal department’ with just a small number of Florida-native species. Through changes, expansion and upgrades — and decades of dedication from community leaders — ZooTampa has grown into an accredited and award-winning zoo that encompasses 56 acres of naturalistic animal exhibits in a lush, tropical garden setting. With an emphasis on endangered, threatened and vulnerable species from similar climates, the zoo offers educational programming, recreational amenities, up-close animal encounters and engaging seasonal events.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park is operated by the Lowry Park Zoological Society, an independent 501(c)(3) charitable organization committed to excellence in conservation, education, recreation and research. The zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and recognized as Florida’s leading and most attended zoological cultural institution.

The zoo is located at 1101 W. Sligh Ave. in Tampa and open seven days a week (except Thanksgiving and Christmas) from 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information, visit www.zootampa.org or follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

SERENGETI FLYER, WORLD’S TALLEST AND FASTEST RIDE OF ITS KIND OPENS AT BUSCH GARDENS

Busch Gardens

Tampa

Bay’s newest ride, Serengeti Flyer, is now open for all guests. The park’s latest attraction, which opened recently, is the world’s tallest and fastest ride of its kind, providing riders with breathtaking views of the park’s expansive 65acre Serengeti Plain.

Serengeti Flyer features twin dueling arms that soar progressively higher, reaching speeds of 68 mph, a maximum height of 135 feet at the ride’s peak and the pulse-pounding thrill of multiple negative-G moments. The park’s new thrill features the capability to adjust the ride’s intensity level, giving guests the opportunity for a milder or wilder experience. Serengeti Flyer allows 40 guests to experience the ride at once, seated back-to-back in rows of 10 across two gondolas.

“Thrills are in full swing at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay with yet another exciting, record-setting ride for our guests to enjoy,” said Neal Thurman, park president of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. “As the world’s tallest and fastest ride of its kind, Serengeti Flyer joins a world-class portfolio of attractions, ofering breathtaking views

of the park and a oneof-a-kind experience for all our guests.”

Busch Gardens

Tampa Bay’s annual pass is the best way to enjoy an entire year of thrilling attractions and exciting seasonal events. Categorized in easy-to-use tiers, all options provide guests with unlimited yearround admission and unbeatable benefits like free parking, in-park discounts and monthly rewards starting as low as $15. Additionally, those interested in paying for a day and playing all year can take advantage of the current buy-one, get-one Fun Card ofer. For a limited time, guests purchasing a Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Fun Card will receive an Adventure Island Fun Card for free.

Guests can visit https://buschgardenstampa.com/ to purchase tickets and learn more about the annual pass program’s benefits and monthly rewards, the current special ofer for the 2023 Fun Card and stay in the know about new events, special deals and future announcements by following Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, YouTube and Twitter.

Photo courtesy of ZooTampa.

Charlotte the Porcupine is thrilled and thankful to see ZooTampa on USATODAY’s 10Best list.