Osprey Observer Riverview/Apollo Beach December 2024

FOUNDATION OPENS COLLEGE & CAREER READINESS CENTER AT SPOTO HIGH

Hillsborough Education Foundation (HEF) is thrilled to announce the expansion of the Student Center of Postsecondary Exploration (SCOPE) to Spoto High School, marking it as the third site in Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) for this increasingly popular college and career readiness initiative. Thanks to generous funding from The Mosaic Company and Tampa Electric Company (TECO), Spoto High School students will now have access to critical, personalized support to prepare for their postsecondary journeys. The SCOPE program o ers resources such as one-on-one college and career planning, assistance with admissions and financial aid applications and guidance on technical and trade school pathways. Planning for life after high school is more complex than ever. As students weigh their options, having a dedicated resource for personalized support is vital. That’s where SCOPE truly shines, o ering tailored guidance that caters to each student’s individual needs and aspirations, be it higher education or even a specific career path.

Karen Swager, executive vice president of operations at The Mosaic Company, explained, “This partnership means a direct line of communication, guidance and mentorship to the future of the local workforce. Mosaic’s Riverview plant celebrates 100 years this fall. Our employees are deeply rooted in the Progress Village community. Access to SCOPE at Spoto High School allows us a chance to build that relationship through expanded opportunity, growing a skilled workforce right in our backyard.”

Report

Initially launched at King High School in 2022, SCOPE has since expanded to Brandon High School, meeting or exceeding all key program benchmarks. The program’s reach and success have continued to grow, with thousands of students benefit-

ing from its resources and individualized guidance. HEF’s president and CEO, Anna Corman, envisions ongoing expansion for SCOPE, with a goal of establishing six fully operational centers by 2026.

“SCOPE has proven to be a valuable resource for students navigating the complex journey toward college and career readiness,” said Corman. “Our students at King and Brandon high schools have shown tremendous growth and engagement through SCOPE, and we are excited to bring these resources to Spoto High School.”

“We are excited to see the launch of the SCOPE program at Spoto High School, which brings invaluable opportunities for our students to gain real-world skills and career insights,” said Van Ayres, superintendent of Hillsborough County Public Schools.

“This program is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together to invest in our students’ futures. My deepest thanks to our community partners — the Education Foundation, Mosaic and TECO — for their dedication and support in making this program a reality.” For more on the program, visit https://educationfoundation.com/

Valor Service Dogs

(VSD) is a local nonprofit that helps wounded post-9/11 veterans and first responders regain independence through the training and placing of mobility assistance and PTSD service dogs.

Once matched with the right applicants, these trained canines help their forever heroes return to civilian life and maintain successful partnerships. VSD also trains facility dogs, which “can help sta /clients/patients increase motivation, promote social interaction and improve overall morale,” according to its website.

The organization was started in 2015 by longtime animal trainer Carol Lansford, VSD’s founder and director of training. It hit close to home when her husband, Justin, a paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division, lost his leg during a 2012 deployment in Afghanistan when a roadside bomb struck his truck. Justin recovered at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where Lansford was the contracted service dog training instructor. Justin was later paired up with Gabe, a golden retriever service dog.

“I’m married to someone that’s in the population that I would like to serve,” said Lansford. “It’s one of my favorite days when an applicant meets their dog for the first time,” she said adding that what makes Valor Service Dogs’ mission possible is its volunteers.

“Our volunteers are the most important part of our organization,” Lansford said.

By Taylor Wells

Valor Service Dogs is in need of more puppy coaches, sitters, nurses and general volunteers.

Puppy coaches lovingly raise and train puppies into service dogs from the age of 12 weeks to 2 years old. Puppy sitters step in for these coaches whenever they need to be away. Puppy nurses are trained to assist VSD’s sta in providing around-the-clock care to its future service dogs in training. General volunteers, meanwhile, help by cleaning, doing yard work and more.

VSD raises approximately five to seven dogs per year and usually has around 10-12 dogs in training at any one time, Lansford added that there are approx 30 VSD-trained service dogs paired with veterans and first responders.

Monetary donations to purchase needed supplies, including items on its Chewy or Amazong Wish Lists or Walmart Registry, are always welcome. Sponsoring VSD and taking part in its capital campaign are additional ways to get involved. Valor Service Dogs is located at 15006 McGrady Rd. in Wimauma. To apply for a service dog, visit its website at https://valorservicedogs.org/. To contact VSD, call 813-634-3232.

HEF recently celebrated the SCOPE program expansion to Spoto High with a ribbon cutting.

Valor Service Dogs-trained Frannie Valor with her forever hero.

Valor Service Dogs-trained Molly Valor with her forever hero.

From left to right: Lisa Poissant, vice president of HR at e Mosaic Company; Anna Corman, Hillsborough Education Foundation president and CEO; and Dr. Jazrick Haggins.

LOCAL VETERAN SWIMS 10 MILES NONSTOP ON HIS 45TH BIRTHDAY

TO SUPPORT WOUNDED

WARRIOR PROJECT

Rob Hill of Wimauma completed a nonstop 10-mile swim on November 3 to raise funds for Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) and to celebrate his 45th birthday, hosted by the Spurlino Family YMCA at Big Bend Road. The swim took about five and a half hours.

Every day, 58 injured veterans and their families sign up to receive critical services and support offered by WWP. Thanks to the generosity of people throughout our communities, warriors and their families will never pay a penny for these life-changing programs.

Hill is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and Army National Guard and was inspired to raise funds for WWP after attending a 3 of 7 Project event which encouraged people grow physically, mentally and spiritually. Hill’s swim was an emotional and inspirational fundraiser that

By Kelly Wise Valdes

successfully raised nearly $2,000.

“I chose this swim as my first big event and wanted to do something for veterans,” said Hill. “Next year, I plan to run 100 miles, and the year after bike 1,000 miles.”

The swim was challenging but rewarding for Hill.

“When I finished and got out of the water, my lips were blue and my skin was gray from the effort,” said Hill. “I trained hard. Starting in March of this year, I logged over 320 miles in preparation.

I had not swum laps in 15 years, so it took some work.”

Even though it was a difficult journey, Hill said he enjoyed every minute of the 10 miles.

“I was thinking of how hard our veterans fight every day to keep on and decided that no matter how I felt, there was nothing going to slow me down from giving them a voice,” said Hill. “If you are unsatisfied with your life, confront something that you are unprepared for and face it head on. Be intentional and choose to not fail.”

For more information on the Wounded Warrior Project, visit www.woundedwarriorproject.org. The Spurlino Family YMCA is located at 9650 Old Big Bend Rd, Riverview, FL 33578, www.tampaymca.org.

PLANT MUSEUM VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS STROLL, TAMPA’S HOLIDAY TRADITION RETURNS FOR ITS 43RD YEAR

What started as a small, three-evening event has grown over the past four decades into a spectacular and wonderous experience throughout the holiday season. Allowing visitors a glimpse into the magic of Christmas past, this holiday experience is a family-friendly way to celebrate all the season has to offer.

The Henry B. Plant Museum’s Victorian Christmas Stroll returns for its 43rd year.

“Guests get to explore the 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel bursting with holiday spirit,” said Jenna Fields, membership, museum relations, and operations manager for the Henry B. Plant Museum. “Christmas trees, holiday fashions, antique toys and fanciful ornaments create an atmosphere of opulence and merriment.”

The Victorian Christmas Stroll is running through Tuesday, December 31. During December, the museum will be open Monday through Thursday between 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Tickets are available now; for more information on special ticket offers, you can visit the museum’s website at www.plantmuseum.com.

“There will also be holiday music and extended hours on weekends for an old-fashioned celebration,” Fields said. “Our guests will also have a chance to

By Libby Hopkins

shop for unique holiday gifts in the museum store. After their stroll through the museum, they can enjoy our complimentary cider and cookies on the veranda.”

The Henry B. Plant Museum interprets the Tampa Bay Hotel and the experiences of the diverse individuals who contributed to its success. The museum ignites thought and transports visitors to another era through exhibits and innovative programs so that they may be educated and inspired by the lifestyles, times and experiences of Florida’s early tourist industry. Proceeds from the Victorian Christmas Stroll will fund museum restoration and preservation projects, as well as educational programming.

Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, the Henry B. Plant Museum welcomes more than 30,000 visitors from around the world each year. Original artifacts and furnishings, as well as a dynamic self-guided audio tour, immerse visitors in the luxury of the 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel and its rich history. If you would like to learn more about the Henry B. Plant Victorian Christmas Stroll, visit www.plantmuseum.com or call the museum at 813-254-1891. The Henry B. Plant Museum is located at 401 W. Kennedy Blvd. in Tampa.

Photo courtesy of www.brentsucher.com.

Wimauma resident and owner of Hill’s Aquatics snail farm Rob Hill raised $2,000 for the Wounded Warrior Project by swimming 10 miles.

The Henry B. Plant Museum’s Victorian Christmas Stroll returns for its 43rd year, running from now through Tuesday, December 31.

USF RESEARCHERS BEGIN FIRST LIFESPAN STUDY ON THE EFFECTS OF

DIGITAL MEDIA USE

A groundbreaking new study conducted by the University of South Florida (USF) will track young people through 2050 to learn more about the long-term impacts of smartphones, social media and other digital media on individual wellbeing.

e Life in Media Survey will be conducted twice a year over decades, tracking the same participants to collect insights and experiences as they pertain to digital media.

Though the long-term research will be conducted over the next 25 years, data collected every six months will give ongoing insight to parents, teachers, researchers, health care providers and others on the impact of digital media use on children and as they age into adults.

Sta Report

and patterns over time, researchers will discover possible connections between device ownership and time spent on social media with the prevalence of sleep deprivation, anxiety, depression and other critical wellness indicators.

Some 1,500 Florida youth took the survey in November to provide researchers with baseline data. Findings and insights from this cohort will be published in a report in the spring of 2025.

UNITED WAY SUNCOAST UNVEILS DYNAMIC BRAND REFRESH

“We have research from other fields that tracks people across decades, looking at cardiovascular health or work-life balance across the lifespan. We don’t have that yet for digital media use and wellness,” said Justin Martin, the Eleanor Poynter Jamison chair in Media Ethics & Press Policy at USF St. Petersburg and lead researcher of the study.

The Life in Media Survey will collect insights and experiences from thousands of 11 to 13-year-olds as they pertain to digital media. Researchers will then track the same participants over decades to determine how digital media use impacts and changes attitudes, behaviors and health throughout their lives.

The survey will cover topics such as social media use and addiction, cyberbullying, news consumption, streaming services, parental controls, media literacy, artificial intelligence and more. Examining responses

Informed by the pilot survey, the research team will then start a nationwide, long-term survey for up to 9,000 children as young as 11, when nearly half of children in the U.S. do not yet own a smartphone. Researchers will survey these children twice a year, once during the school year and again in the summer.

Although there has been a lot of snapshot research on the e ects of digital media on everything from political discourse to social development, there are few conclusive findings and no long-term study tracking digital media use and well-being from childhood into adulthood.

The research team comprises experts across various disciplines, including journalism, psychology, public health, political science, sociology and communications. USF is also collaborating on the research with the Poynter Institute for Media Studies and its MediaWise initiative, which empowers young people with media literacy skills. Learn more at www.usf.edu.

United Way Suncoast recently unveiled its refreshed brand identity, revealing an invigorated visual style and a mission-aligned message to amplify its impact. This update includes a modernized logo, engaging new calls to action and a simplified yet powerful mission statement: “United Way Suncoast mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive.” By becoming an early adopter of United Way Worldwide’s brand evolution, United Way Suncoast aims to strengthen its connection with the community and broaden its reach as it heads into the season of giving.

“The refreshed brand allows us to better convey what we stand for, how we’re di erent and why people should get involved,” said Ernest Hooper, United Way Suncoast chief communications o cer.

“This new look is energizing and reinforces our mission. While it preserves familiar elements — like our Circle of Hope symbol with its rainbow, hand and human figure — it repositions these elements to show how United Way leads the way in community support.”

United Way Suncoast’s new brand maintains its core symbol, the Circle of Hope, which represents the organization’s commitment to hope, support and humanity. This logo now appears to the left, emphasizing United Way’s leadership role, with a fresh color palette and modernized design elements to communicate openness and inclusivity.

In addition to visual changes, the organization has updated its calls to action to

better encourage community engagement. While the previous calls to ‘donate, volunteer and advocate’ have been instrumental, the new directives — ‘get involved,’ ‘give back’ and ‘take action’ — aim to foster a more active, hands-on relationship with audiences, underscoring the organization’s accessible, inclusive approach to engagement.

As part of the refresh, United Way Suncoast also introduces a concise mission statement that reflects its enduring commitment to uplifting communities. The mission, crafted with clarity and focus, sets the stage for United Way’s unique approach to driving community change. The restylized brand and mission statement reflects United Way Suncoast’s dedication to delivering meaningful impact while supporting communities as they move forward together.

In the coming months, the organization will continue to roll out new website updates and adopt a more vibrant color palette, typography and graphic elements designed to convey depth and dynamism. United Way Suncoast gives families and community members across its five-county footprint the ‘freedom to rise.’ Founded in 1924, United Way Suncoast proudly serves Hillsborough, Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota and DeSoto counties by investing in services and programs that help people create the lives they imagine for themselves.

For more information, visit https://unitedwaysuncoast.org/.

657-2418

657-2418 terry@Jnspreyobserver.com

Jennifer

657-2418 jhurs@Jspreyobserver.com

657-2418 kcollins@Jpspreyobserver.com

Kerrie Hoening

813-625-1527 khoening@ospreyobserver.com

813-300-5152 mgershkoff@ospreyobserver.com

By Jane Owen

On November 8, Congressman Vern Buchanan hosted a Congressional Veteran Commendation event at Newsome High School’s newly opened performing arts center. The second annual commendation event recognized and honored wartime sacrifi ces and peacetime community involvement of veterans residing in Florida’s 16th District.

An independent panel of veterans reviewed nominations for the commendation awards and selected the 30 veterans. Three additional veterans were presented with meritorious medals for service to our country.

we can help pay tribute to our local heroes who put it all on the line to defend our country and way of life,” Congressman Buchanan said. He added, “While we will never be able to fully repay the honorees for their selfl ess sacrifi ces, I hope the Congressional Veteran Commendation helps express how grateful our community truly is for their service.”

As each veteran received their award from Buchanan, their military awards were read and their passion for serving our community was described. In addition, the audience heard their answers to what they are most proud of. The answers included being proud of their family, being proud they were able to bring their unit home without casualties, being proud of deciding to get their GED after the military and then later pursing higher education, being proud of the business that they started and being proud of being a veteran because they hated serving during the Vietnam War.

Everyone in attendance was in awe.

The auditorium was fi lled with friends and family of the veterans, Newsome students and community members, including school board members Lynn Gray and Patti Rendon. Newsome’s chorus and orchestra performed. Newsome’s JROTC greeted attendees with a saber salute and presented the colors.

“These awards are just one small way

Congratulations to: Angel Alvarez (Vietnam and Gulf wars), Angelo Barnello Sr. (World War II), Stephen Browning (Vietnam War), Delford Connell (World War II), Geo rey Cordes (Gulf War), Angel Davila Lopez (Gulf War), Harry Demeza (World War II), Jerry Estes (Vietnam War), Brenda Gaines (served outside of wartime), Je rey Gaines (Gulf War), Lloyd Grable (World War II), Dwain Hannah (Vietnam War), William Hodges (served outside of wartime), Carl Hunsinger (Gulf War), Bruce Johnson (Vietnam War), William Kirkpatrick (Vietnam and Gulf wars), Jim Klocke (Vietnam War), Maurice Lanouette (World War II), Robert Marasco (Gulf War), Thomas Moncrief (served outside of wartime), Joseph Muhlberger (served outside of wartime), Jerry Ne (served outside of wartime), Sean Powers (served outside of wartime), Robert Putnam (Vietnam War), Thomas Reichard (Gulf War), Gill Ruderman (Vietnam War), Milton Shattuck (Korean, Vietnam, and Gulf Wars), Vincent Spanicciati (Vietnam War), George Tamburello (World War II), Lonnie Vona (Vietnam and Gulf Wars), Charles McMurtry, Errol Brady Ross and Joseph Pereria.

For info https://buchanan.house.gov/

(never known to fail)

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

Mary I place this cause in your hands (three times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish and it will be granted to you. T.O.C.M.B.

“We love because He first

Photo courtesy of Congressman Buchanan’s o ce.

THE IMPORTANCE OF SELECTING THE RIGHT EDUCATIONAL PATH FOR YOUR CHILD

By Superintendent Van Ayres

STATE ATTORNEY’S OFFICE COMBATS RETAIL CRIME OVER HOLIDAY SEASON

By

As a parent or guardian of a school-age child, selecting their educational path is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. I am proud to share that our district provides a wide range of award-winning academic programs tailored to meet the unique interests and strengths of every student.

Currently, we offer over 100 K-12 tuition-free school choice programs based on curriculum, location, student interest, or way of learning. Whether it is virtual learning, K-8, International Baccalaureate, Collegiate Academy, magnet schools for the arts or STEM or career and technical education, we o er school choice programs and innovative and nurturing learning environments with technology-rich classrooms and highly qualified teachers.

As you explore educational options for your child, consider these tips to help you make an informed decision:

First, consider your child’s interests and learning style. Magnet and choice programs in our district allow students to explore their passions in depth. Talk to your child about what excites them academically and creatively to find a program aligned with their goals.

Next, research each program’s unique offerings. Our district’s website has detailed

descriptions on each of our programs, and you can also attend one of our Magnet & Choice Expos we o er each year that allow you to explore programs firsthand. Ask ulum, extracurriculars

tending a school tour can also provide a feel for the

Think about your child’s strengths and challenges. Magnet programs foster both

al growth, so consider what environment will help your child thrive.

fit hands-on learners, while a rigorous IB program might suit a student looking for an

Lastly, consider the commute, school hours and how these factors fit into your

Selecting one of our choice programs is an exciting opportunity to personalize your child’s education. Take your time exploring options, and feel free to reach out to our district sta for guidance. We’re here to support you in finding the best fit for your

To learn more or to apply for one of our choice programs, visit www.hillsboroughschools.org/magnet. Please note, the window to apply for the 2025-26 school year closes on Tuesday, December 31.

The holidays should be a season of giving, not taking. But as sales soar during the holidays, so does retail theft, and retail theft has become big business for thieves. The state attorney’s office is focused on ensuring that criminals are held accountable for theft from both small business owners and large retailers. Some recently expanded laws will help to strengthen the penalties for those criminals who make their living through shoplifting, which drives up prices for consumers.

According to the most recent statistics available, Florida businesses lost 5.5 billion dollars in revenue in 2022 from retail theft alone. Since then, lawmakers have been searching for ways to combat this type of crime. In 2024, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a new law into effect that stiffens penalties for organized retail theft. Where thieves are working in concert to steal or are engaged in a pattern of theft targeting businesses, charges can be enhanced from a misdemeanor to a felony, or, if already at a felony level, the penalties can be increased. This means if convicted, thieves can face more jail time.

Our office also works closely with local law enforcement partners to crack down on retail theft rings. These crimes cost local business owners thousands of dollars each year and can lead to lost wages, fewer jobs, higher prices for consumers and even a slower economy. By properly utilizing the new laws tar-

geting organized retail crime and aggressively prosecuting those responsible for retail theft rings, we can create a deterrent for those looking to steal not only during the holidays but also all year round.

While our local law enforcement partners are important, we also meet with local business owners and loss prevention specialists to learn more about how we can help stop retail theft. Our office has participated in store walks to learn more about loss prevention tactics. Our attorneys share ideas with store owners about how to deter crime as well as offer guidance about how to help us build the best cases possible for prosecution.

While you may only see our office’s most high-profile criminal cases on the local news, please know that we take retail theft incredibly seriously. We know that theft impacts real people and their families. When we work together with our business owners and law enforcement partners, we can make our economy stronger and our community safer. e State Attorney’s O ce of the 13th Judicial circuit encompasses all of Hillsborough County, including the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace and Plant City. e o ce sta consists of approximately 320 dedicated public servants including 130 prosecutors, as well as investigators, victim advocates and support sta . e o ce handles approximately 50,000 cases every year. To learn more about the organization or apply to become part of the team, visit www.sao13th.com.

A Letter From The SUPERINTENDENT of Hillsborough County Public Schools Van Ayres

State Attorney Suzy Lopez.

State Attorney Suzy Lopez

HOLIDAY WATER CONSERVATION TIPS — YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

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

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

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

A: When washing dishes by hand, fill one sink or basin with soapy water and fill the rinsing sink one-third to one-half full. Avoid letting the water run continuously in the rinsing sink. Run your dishwasher only when you have a full load. Standard dishwashers can use 5 gallons of water or more per load.

Q: How can I be water conscious while cooking?

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

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

A: Your home should be using little to

By Katherine Munson

no water while you’re traveling for the holidays. Check for indoor and outdoor leaks before you head out. If you have a permanent in-ground irrigation system, make sure your controller is set to follow local water restrictions or turned to the ‘o ’ position if your lawn and landscape are not in need of additional water. Consider upgrading to a WaterSense-labeled smart irrigation controller that can automatically adjust to your lawn’s watering needs while you’re away.

Q: How can I give the gift of water savings during the holidays?

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

Q: Where can I find more water conservation tips?

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

Katherine Munson, Lead Conservation Education Coordinator – As lead conservation education coordinator, Katherine Munson manages the district’s youth education program and assists in water conservation outreach e orts. Munson holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies concentrating in environmental education and communication from Green Mountain College. She also holds a master’s degree in global sustainability concentrating on water sustainability from the University of South Florida.

INCREASE OF MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES WITH ADOLESCENTS

BLOOMINGDALE PSYCHIATRIC ASSOCIATES

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

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

TMS OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

TMS of Central Florida provides NeuroStar TMS therapy. TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is a safe, effective FDA approved treatment for individuals ,15 years and older who suffer from Major Depression, Anxiety and OCD. It is for individuals that have tried and failed medication due to the side effects or did not receive positive results. TMS is not a drug or “shock” therapy. TMS therapy is an inoffice treatment that is 18 minutes and 45 seconds long. Treatments are done 5 days a week for 6 weeks. It requires no down time! You can resume all normal activities immediately such as returning to school or work. Visit our websites Tmscentralflorida.com or NeuroStar.com for more information.

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

Bloomingdale Psychiatric Associates

813-689-2466

TMS of Central Florida

813-423-7037

ROTARY SPOTLIGHT: ACTIVITIES, MEETINGS

& MORE

December’s Rotary International theme is Disease Prevention and Treatment.

Rotary clubs around the world are fighting disease by spearheading the world’s largest public health initiative — the eradication of polio. One local project at Rotary’s Camp Florida in Brandon is focused on water and sewer management.

To read about more projects around the world focused on fighting disease, visit www.rotary.org, and consider joining a local club of neighbors, friends and leaders to volunteer your skills and resources to solve issues and address the needs of our local communities.

FishHawk-Riverview

Join the FishHawk-Riverview Rotary Club for the 40th Alafia Lighted Boat Parade on Saturday, December 7, starting at 4 p.m. at the Riverview Civic Center (www. alafiaboatparade.com). Proceeds benefit the FishHawk-Riverview Rotary Club Foundation, which supports local e orts to alleviate hunger, poverty, illiteracy and disease. All are welcome to join in with the club on Mondays from 12 Noon-1 p.m. at JF Kicks, located at 3345 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. Join the club for guest speakers this month from Perspire Sauna Studio, New Life Warehouse and the Florida Society of Clinical Oncology. On Thursday evenings from 5-6:30 p.m., join the club at the

Shrimp Boat, located at 1020 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Coming up in January 2025 will be its local Speech Contest for area high schoolers. For more information, go to www.fishhawkriverviewrotary.org, visit its social media pages or email Betty Huth at betty@hbphoto.com.

E-Club of Tampa South

You are welcome to join the E-Club of Tampa South via Zoom on the first and third Tuesdays of each month from 7-8 p.m. Zoom meeting link: https://zoom. us/j/7328811760.

For more information, contact Duane Williams at dsigma79@aol.com or 813541-6202.

Brandon ’86

The Brandon Seafood Festival has been moved to January 18, 2025, from 11 a.m.3 p.m. at Rotary’s Camp Florida, located at 1915 Camp Florida Rd. in Brandon. You may purchase tickets ahead of time on the Brandon ’86 Rotary Club’s Facebook page (@ Brandon86RotaryClub) or at the door. For more information, contact Chad Norgard at chad@norgardinsgrp.com

Interact Club of Tampa Bay (High Schoolers)

The Interact Club of Tampa Bay will not meet in December. For more information, contact Chad Norgard at chad@norgardinsgrp.com.

CONSTRUCTION BEGINS AT SALADINO PARK TO ADD PICKLEBALL COURTS

The list of amenities at Bertha and Tony Saladino Park in Brandon keeps growing, with three new Pickleball Courts being added to the popular county facility at 1705 Bryan Rd. in Brandon. The lighted courts will be another welcome addition to the playgrounds, exercise equipment, basketball courts, baseball field, walking path and dog park already enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Based on community feedback, pickleball has been recognized as the county’s fastest-growing sport in recent years, with the Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation department acknowledging this by adding courts to meet demand. Along with Saladino Park, new facilities will also be added to Mango Park in Se ner and Balm Park and Community Center in Wimauma.

When asked about the Saladino project coupled with the expansion of courts, Jason Mackenzie, Jason Mackenzie, CPRP, park planner and development manager for Hillsborough County, was excited to say, “Hillsborough County is scheduled to have 55 pickleball courts functional by the end of next year with 35 currently open. A bulk of the additions were funded by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, with current projects funded by park impact fees paid by developers. Our goal is for the courts to be spread evenly throughout the county. We anticipate the Saladino project to be completed by end of first-quarter 2025.”

However, Mackenzie was quick to point out there was still a lot of what he calls “unwow” work to be completed before

By Brian Bokor

folks see any progress on the courts. This work includes “land preparation involving the addition 20-plus parking lots, expanding and filling in part of the existing retention pond, reconfiguring storm water piping and laying conduit for the lighting. All this [underground] work needs to be completed before the pickleball pads are poured. The courts themselves need 30 days to cure before lines can be painted in order to avoid bubbles in the paint.”

With over 27 years of Parks & Recreation experience, beginning as a City of Tampa lifeguard and eventually working his way through the system, Mackenzie stressed the importance of parks and the role they serve in the community: “Parks provide the backdrop to all great memories growing up. It gives people an opportunity to break away from the rest of the world.” Mackenzie firmly supports the county’s commitment of providing “passive recreation opportunities where visitors to our parks feel free to use the facility at their pace without agenda or sta oversight.”

Other local area projects on Parks & Recreation’s review agenda include upgrades/improvements to Sadie Park/ Brandon Community Center as well as the Providence West Sports Complex. All park projects are listed on the county’s capital improvement projects page at https://hcfl. gov/government/cip-projects-and-resources/county-capital-improvement-projects.

For more information, Mackenzie can be reached at mackenziej@hcfl.gov.

CENTRAL FLORIDA AEROSPACE ACADEMY OFFERS UNIQUE CLASSES FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

The Central Florida Aerospace Academy o ers a unique experience for students interested in aerospace, aviation and engineering.

It is a Polk County Public High School Career Academy connected to Kathleen High School, but it is located o the main campus at Lakeland International Airport. For non Polk residents, summer camps and other programs are also available.

At the academy, students take typical courses, like math and English, but also more challenging career and technical education courses.

Head of the program Jennifer Sasser said one of the benefits of attending the academy is the mix of the traditional high school experience with unique opportunities.

“Students attend high school on Lakeland International Airport property and also have access to participate in traditional high school activities such as sports, clubs, and committees,” Sasser said.

Special elections include classes like aviation instruction, aircraft maintenance, unmanned aircraft system operations and other career-related courses.

Through the partnership with the Aerospace Center for Excellence, students graduate with their private pilot license. Some even get their pilot license before their driver’s license.

“Many of our students enter service academies and have careers in the aviation industry and beyond that take them all

By Lily Belcher

over the world,” Sasser said. “Others stay close to home and get jobs at the various businesses around the airport.”

When they graduate, students are honored at the academy’s Solo for Success ceremony, where they receive a personalized brick on the walkway in front of the school.

There are 17 teachers at the Central Florida Aerospace Academy campus. This year, nearly 400 students are enrolled, but the capacity is 500.

The academy is a ninth to 12th grade free Polk County public school and there is no entrance exam required to enroll. Students zoned for Kathleen High School are provided transportation to the academy’s campus at the Lakeland International Airport.

In addition to the rigorous academic courses, CFAA o ers aeronautical instruction including flight training, aircraft maintenance and avionics, engineering, UAS operations, FAA Part 147 Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic courses, and boasts an impressive Air Force JROTC program. CFAA is proud to be recognized as a National Career Academy Coalition Model Academy School.

Central Florida Aerospace Academy is located at 4141 Medulla Rd. in Lakeland. For more information on the academy, visit https://aceedu.org/campus/central-florida-aerospace-academy/ or contact the Aerospace Center for Excellence at 863-644-2431.

As we enter this Christmas season, the Greater SouthShore Chamber of Commerce Board and Staff would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year! This year has been challenging for our community, but

HEF RAISES $1.2 MILLION FOR HURRICANE RELIEF EFFORTS TO SUPPORT STUDENTS, TEACHERS AND SCHOOLS

In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which have deeply impacted communities across the region, Hillsborough Education Foundation (HEF) mobilized swiftly to support students, teachers and schools in need. With widespread damage leaving many without the essential resources and supplies necessary for a successful school year, HEF has taken decisive action to meet urgent needs.

Sta Report

SAWGRASS

GIFT

SHOP AT ST. JOSEPH’S HOSPITAL-SOUTH IS A TRUE HIDDEN GEM

By Sharon Still

“When we witnessed the heartbreaking impact these storms had on our students, teachers and schools here in Hillsborough County, we knew we couldn’t stand by,” said Anna Corman, president and CEO of Hillsborough Education Foundation. “The devastation demanded immediate action — not just to restore what was lost but to o er hope, stability, and a sense of community during an incredibly challenging time.”

HEF quickly established a Hurricane Relief Fund, collaborating with dedicated donors and community partners to raise over $1.2 million to date.”

HEF has already distributed nearly 500 backpack kits filled with core school supplies essential for students to engage in learning, with another 500 kits set to be distributed in the coming weeks.

The hurricanes have had a devastating impact on many educators and support sta , with hundreds of employees already confirmed as displaced due to flooding. To

support these employees, HEF established a hurricane relief fund specifically to aid those who have lost their homes, experienced significant damage or flooding or lost primary vehicles. Financial support will assist with temporary housing, repairs, deductibles and the replacement of personal items. HEF has received over 700 applications for financial assistance to date and is working as quickly as possible to review and process requests.

Approximately 20 schools experienced flooding, while others su ered storm-related damage. Many teachers lost classroom supplies, furniture and teaching materials.

To address these losses, HEF has replaced nearly $30,000 worth of elementary classroom rugs across 10 schools and provided $50,000 in essential school supplies, including whiteboard markers, copy paper and bulletin boards.

HEF’s relief e orts have been made possible through the generous support of key donors, including the Lightning Foundation, the Jarcarlene Foundation, the Helios Education Foundation, the Florida Disaster Fund/ Volunteer Florida, Suncoast Credit Union, the Spurlino Foundation, Generate, RaceTrac, the Community Foundation of Tampa Bay, the Tampa Bay Rays, the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations and numerous individual donors.

Visit https://educationfoundation.com/.

Discover the charm of the Sawgrass Gift Shop at St. Joseph’s Hospital-South, where a special gift or flower arrangement can brighten any patient’s day. From heartfelt greeting cards and inspirational keepsakes to lovely floral bouquets and stylish clothing, this volunteer-operated shop is much more than just a place to find a smile and a kind word.

In addition to the typical selection of balloons, flowers, stu ed animals and cards, the gift shop o ers a wide selection of items. Visitors will find seasonal items, clothing and fashion accessories, baby items, handbags, fragrances and more. The knowledgeable and friendly volunteer sta is dedicated to helping shoppers find the perfect item, whether it be a get-well gift for a sick friend or loved one, a special surprise for a new mom or a token of appreciation for a caregiver.

Charnell Clemens has been a volunteer at the gift shop since 2017. “This is the most beautiful, fun place to work,” she commented, noting that Kim Wallace, volunteer resource and gift shop manager, and her assistant, Rene Bergsma, really try to have everything the employees recommend as well as practical items for everyday use.

“There is something for everyone,” Clemens added.

All proceeds benefit St. Joseph’s Hospitals by funding pledges to defer the cost of hospital needs.

“Our auxiliary has a five-year pledge of $1.5 million,” said Wallace. This includes St Joseph’s Hospital-South, St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, St. Joseph’s Hospital-Main and St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital.

“We also contribute to each hospital’s needs by providing various equipment,” she explained. “This year, the group purchased a stretcher that weighs patients that cannot stand up for St. Joseph’s Hospital-South’s emergency department.”

The gift shop also organizes various fundraising events to raise additional funds. Upcoming events include a showcase by the Soul Shine Jewelry Studio on Tuesday, December 17, and tasty treats from Nothing Bundt Cakes available on Thursday and Friday, December 18 and 19.

The Sawgrass Gift Shop is located on the first-floor lobby of St. Joseph’s Hospital-South, located at 6901 Simmons Loop in Riverview. Its hours are 8:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. from Monday through Wednesday and on Friday, 6:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. on Thursday and 12 Noon-4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. To place an order, call 813-302-8556.

In collaboration with dedicated donors and community partners, HEF has raised over $1.2 million to date for hurricane relief.

Sawgrass Gift Shop volunteer Julie Gettler, assistant manager Rene Bergsma and manager Kim Wallace at St. Joseph’s Hospital.

USPS OPERATION SANTA LAUNCHES ONLINE CATALOG SANTA’S GIFT SHOPPE

SIDEKICKS MARTIAL ARTS OFFERS

CLASSES, CHARACTER BUILDING & 3 GENERATIONS OF BLACK BELTS

The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is announcing the debut of an e-commerce catalog for the fulfillment of gifts: Santa’s Gift Shoppe, an online option developed exclusively for USPS Operation Santa letter adopters, powered by Toys“R”Us, just in time for the annual USPS letter adoption program.

The new site offers a streamlined experience, making it easier for participants to shop for the ideal gift and ship it from home with just a click.

Help make holiday wishes come true by adopting a Santa letter and finding the ideal gift to send quickly and easily through the U.S. Postal Service’s new online Santa’s Gift Shoppe catalog.

The online catalog offers a selection of toys and gifts from Toys“R”Us, allowing letter adopters to find something special for each letter writer, while the integration with shipping options from the Postal Service helps ensure that gifts are affordable to ship and arrive in time for the holidays.

“USPS Operation Santa has connected communities through holiday goodwill for over a century,” said Sheila Holman, USPS marketing vice president. “This year, through our collaboration with Toys“R”Us, we’re thrilled to bring an easier way for generous people to make a difference. With the launch of this new e-commerce platform, we’re making it simpler than ever to help fulfill wishes and spread holiday joy.”

The introduction of Santa’s Gift Shoppe marks the first of what the Postal Service hopes to be several collaborations in expanding its online catalog to include cloth-

Staff Report

ing, shoes, books and more.

Since its inception 112 years ago, USPS Operation Santa has enabled the public to adopt letters to Santa written by children and families. By choosing a letter, participants make a direct impact on their communities, bringing hope, joy and generosity to the holiday season.

Supporters are invited to visit the official USPS Operation Santa website to browse letters, choose a child’s wish to fulfill and benefit from the enhanced shopping and shipping options through Santa’s Gift Shoppe to make holiday dreams come true.

Also, this holiday season, USPS Operation Santa will be featured in a new season of Dear Santa, The Series on all ABC-owned television stations and streaming on Hulu, which began on November 29. The series provides a heartwarming, behind-thescenes look at the impact of the program, showcasing real stories of generosity and the spirit of the holidays as letters are answered and wishes are fulfilled. Dear Santa, The Series captures the essence of USPS Operation Santa, highlighting the dedication of the Postal Service, the support of generous Americans and the joy felt by recipients across the nation.

For more information, visit www.uspsoperationsanta.com.

Sidekicks Family Martial Arts in FishHawk has brought martial arts classes and camps to the area for over 20 years. While learning martial arts skills, Sidekicks Family Martial Arts students will develop a passion for discipline, teamwork and confidence, skills they can carry with them off the mats.

The center is run by a family of black belts, with Manny Cabrera IV becoming the third generation to earn a black belt. His siblings aren’t too far behind him either.

Jessica Cabrera, Manny’s mother and lead instructor, said raising her sons to become black belts means the organization practices what it teaches.

“I think it’s really special because we have built our careers around helping kids be the best versions of themselves,” she said. “And here we are. We get to see what the outcome of the benefit of the program looks like right in our own house.”

Jessica also said it is special for her family to share a hobby and a passion with their business.

“We are walking the talk,” she said.

Sidekicks Family Martial Arts goes beyond just getting fit and learning self-defense. While kids take lessons with Sidekicks’ coaches, they are learning important

By Lily Belcher

life skills, like self-confidence and discipline.

Dena Peavyhouse, sales and marketing administrator, said the curriculum pairs skills based in childhood development studies.

“We really make sure that the martial arts we’re teaching are geared towards their age group and their development, and then we’re also teaching them in those skills how to interact with others,” Peavyhouse said. “They’re learning about teamwork.”

She said they watch for developmental milestones and help their students reach those marks.

Starting next year, Sidekicks will be hosting several parenting classes to give parents the “Sidekick Secret Sauce.”

“Now, seeing the benefit of parenting a child who’s wearing their black belt, we are taking some of the team training seminars and things that we have done with our team to train them to be the best,” Jessica said.

For more information on Sidekicks Family Martial Arts, visit https://ilovesidekicks.com/ or call 813-308-0306. Sidekicks Family Martial Arts Center is located at 16132 Churchview Dr. in Lithia in Park Square Plaza.

Manny Cabrera IV becomes a third-generation black belt. Pictured from left to right: Jonas Cabrera, Manny Cabrera III (owner and chief instructor of Sidekicks Family Martial Arts), Jessica Cabrera (lead instructor for Sidekicks Family Martial Arts), Manny Cabrera IV, Grandmaster Manuel Cabrera, Gabe Cabrera and Amber Cabrera.

Fun and hands-on learning will take to the sky as Flight Club Drone Zone presented by Suncoast Credit Union opens as a new, permanent addition to MOSI, Tampa’s Museum of Science and Industry.

Guests will take control of real drones, completing challenges, racing each other and getting up close with the technology that’s transforming countless aspects of our world.

Regulations and training requirements are increasing for drone operators across the United States, but in MOSI’s dedicated indoor drone space, trying out a drone is both approved and encouraged. The new experience will be included with MOSI admission for guests of all ages, with guidance from a MOSI educator always close by.

“At MOSI, this is what we do. We take science and technology that may be new, confusing or overwhelming and we make it real for you. We get you hands-on with it. And we show you how it fits into your future — looking at how it may change our community and how you can be prepared for the new careers the technology is creating,” said MOSI CEO John Graydon Smith.

In addition to controlling drones that are about the size of a paper plate, guests will see drones on display in a range of sizes, designed for a range of jobs. Videos showcase the careers that are emerging from this growing technology and show drones in action around the world. The number of drone-related job postings more than doubled between 2021 and 2023, according to drone training company DARTdrones.

As part of Suncoast Credit Union’s part-

Sta Report

nership with MOSI, Suncoast members can buy one MOSI ticket with their Suncoast debit or credit card and get a second ticket free.

MOSI’s team used one of their favorite concepts, the scientific method, to develop Flight Club Drone Zone presented by Suncoast Credit Union. Starting in 2023 with the hypothesis that drone flying would be a great guest experience, they tested a small drone flying area in their IDEAZone makerspace.

After analyzing their experiment, the MOSI team tested di erent types of netting and drones and rearranged a section of the museum to more than triple the area available for flying. The ultimate conclusion is Flight Club Drone Zone presented by Suncoast Credit Union — complete with mesh walls that won’t snag, durable drones and enough room for three guests to take to the skies at once, allowing for skills challenges and head-to-head races.

Drones (more formally called ‘unmanned aerial vehicles,’ or UAVs) have also been added to several MOSI programs and Summer Science Camps. The additional drone programs were designed with input from experts and licensed drone pilots.

The new Flight Club Drone Zone presented by Suncoast Credit Union is one of many recent and near-future improvements to MOSI’s campus.

Learn more about Flight Club Drone Zone presented by Suncoast Credit Union or get tickets now at https://mosi.org/. MOSI is located in North Tampa at 4801 E. Fowler Ave.

Hillsborough County, New Vision Communities, and Wendover Housing Partners cut the ribbon on November 14 celebrating the opening of Fulham Terrace, the new 116-unit a ordable housing community for seniors located at 10461 Towncenter River Lane in Riverview.

Amenities include a community center/ clubhouse, computer lab, fitness center, hair salon, swimming pool and pool deck, theater, community garden and fenced dog walk area. Units at Fulham Terrace feature open floor plans with a kitchen island, 24/7 emergency call system and walk-in closets. Units also include an Energy Star dishwasher, range, microwave and full-size washer/ dryer.

Two years ago, the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners approved $6.2 million in funding to build the 116-complex in Riverview in an e ort to alleviate a ordable housing challenges for local seniors. $4.7 million of the cost came from Hillsborough’s local a ordable housing fund, Hillsborough Organization for Progress and Equality (HOPE), with $1.5 million from the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) program.

Kevin Kroll, vice president of institutional funding for Wendover Housing Partners, praised Hillsborough County leaders for their support and teamwork on this project, “We designed Fulham Terrace with community, comfort and accessibility in mind because we believe that everyone deserves a place to call home where they feel supported and

By Brian Bokor

valued,” said Kroll. Kroll brought up some great points about living at Fulham Terrace, saying Fulham “o ers residents independent senior living but also allows the option of having family members or caregivers living with them,” and adding it is “an active community consisting of both working and retired residents.”

Wendover has collaborated on a similar senior a ordable apartment complex in the University of South Florida area of Tampa named Haley Park.

Hillsborough County Commissioner Gwen Myers and her sta were present for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, along with Brenda Brackins, Hillsborough County A ordable Housing Services director. Speaking from personal experience growing up in a ordable housing, Brackins emphasized the importance and need to build communities that provided “dignity, stability and security for all those that live there.” There is no doubt that residents of Fulham Terrace enjoy all of these benefits plus many more.

The 55-plus independent-living senior community consists of 58 one-bedroom, one-bathroom units; 54 two-bedroom, two-bathroom units; and four three-bedroom, two-bathroom units. All units are allocated for rent at below-market levels to residents making 80 percent or less of the area’s median income. For current rates and availability, please visit www.fulhamterrace. com or call 656-207-5650.

Guests are able to y real drones in Flight Club Drone Zone presented by Suncoast Credit Union, the newest addition to MOSI.

Hillsborough County A ordable Housing Services leaders welcome new a ordable housing in Riverview, Fulham Terrace.

HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY TO ENJOY

Church Street Christmas

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

Children’s Christmas Party

American Legion Post 148, located at 7840 U.S. 301 S. in Riverview, is hosting a children’s Christmas party on Saturday, December 14, from 12 Noon-4 p.m. There will be lots of fun with games and crafts, including cookie decorating, as well as photo opportunities with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Children will enjoy hot dogs, chips and drinks, as well as receive a gift.

Celebrate e Christmas Season

With Plant City Community Chorale

The Plant City Community Chorale’s local winter concert, Celebrate the Christmas Season, will be performed on Sunday, December 15, beginning at 5 p.m. at St. Clement Catholic Church’s Sanctuary, located at 1104 N. Alexander St. in Plant City. The concert will feature classic and modern songs celebrating the holiday season. Tickets are $15 and are available at www.pccchorale.org, by texting 727-424-9661 or at the Walden Lake Car Wash. Children under 12 years of age enter for free.

Celtic Christmas Celebration

This presentation will surely put you and

your family in the ultimate Christmas spirit and point your heart to the true reason for the season as we celebrate the birth of our savior — Jesus Christ. There are two performances, featuring the cast, choir and orchestra of First Baptist Church of Brandon, on Saturday and Sunday, December 7-8 (deaf interpretation provided December 8), with the performances starting at 6 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. The performances are approximately 90 minutes in length. First Baptist Brandon is located at 216 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon. Visit www. fbcbrandon.org for more information about the church and its services.

Tampa-area Lighted Holiday Boat Parades

place along the Alafia River from the Riverview Civic Center to River’s Edge Bar and Grill on Saturday, December 7, from 4-7 p.m.

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

At First Baptist Church Of Brandon It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Gather your friends and family and join First Baptist Church of Brandon for its Sunday Evening Candlelight Service. This is a one-hour experience designed to be enjoyed as a family. Child care will be o ered for nursery and preschool age, but all other ages will enjoy music, a message and singing Christmas Carols together in the sanctuary. The program will begin at 5 p.m., with a musical prelude at 4:30 p.m. First Baptist Church Brandon is located at 216 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon. Visit www. fbcbrandon.org for more information about the church and its services.

Brandon

Compiled By Jenny Bennett

Christmas Market

On Sunday, December 8, Jen’s Markets and Events will hold a special Christmas market in Brandon at 1215 Kingsway Rd. in the parking lot of the Kingsway Shopping Plaza. The hours are 12 Noon to 7 p.m., with the market being illuminated by holiday lights starting at dusk for a truly festive feel. Over 40 vendors will be participating with a wide variety of fresh foods, packaged foods, sweets, holiday decor, handcrafted soaps and candles, unique crafts and stocking stu ers. This event will have something for everyone.

Holiday Promenade Evening Market

Christmas Lane In Plant City

The annual Apollo Beach Lighted Boat Parade takes place on Saturday, December 14. It will leave the south channel at 6 p.m. and proceed toward Lands End Marina before winding around Lake Sunrise Basin, back out around Bal Harbour, then up Flamingo Canal before returning and going around Dolphin House at the end of Gran Kaymen Way and finally going up the canal leading to Symphony Isles. Come and meet the members of the Tampa Sailing Squadron before the parade at its clubhouse, located at 1250 Apollo Beach Blvd. in Apollo Beach.

The Alafia Lighted Boat Parade is always very popular with local residents. It will take

Christmas Lane is returning to Plant City. Over 2,000 volunteer hours have prepared this winter wonderland full of the magic of Christmas at every turn. With more than 1.5 million lights adorning over 200 Christmas trees that range from 4-40 feet tall, the displays are sure to delight. Make sure that you visit and write your letters to Santa, as well as decorate ornaments and have your face painted. There is also live entertainment on select nights. Christmas Lane is open 6-10 p.m. from Friday, November 29, through Tuesday, December 24, at the Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds, located at 303 Berryfest Place in Plant City. Additional information can be found on its website at https://christmaslane.com/.

The Holiday Promenade, an evening market on Thursday, December 12, from 5-9 p.m., will highlight the local, festive shopping opportunities in the heart of Water Street in Tampa. Guests of all ages are invited for an evening of shopping, strolling and discovering unique gifts, while reveling in enjoyable live entertainment and a picture-perfect winter backdrop.

Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. Holiday Market

Cozy up with Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. at its holiday market on Sunday, December 15, from 12 Noon-4 p.m. Get into the festive spirit as you stroll through the market filled with local vendors o ering handmade treasures. Enjoy some craft beer, warm up with delicious hot chocolate topped with marshmallows and sample tasty food while you soak in the atmosphere. Whether shopping or just enjoying the vibe, there is something for everyone.

TAMPA BAY’S GASPARILLA BOWL HOSTS FAN INVASION BEFORE KICKOFF

The 15th annual Gasparilla Bowl will kick o on Friday, December 20, partnering with Union Home Mortgage for an “unforgettable Bowl Week celebration.”

“Union Home Mortgage shares the Gasparilla Bowl’s commitment to mutual respect, excellence and community engagement, working together to support collegiate athletics and strengthen connections in the Tampa Bay community,” said Scott Glaser, Gasparilla Bowl executive director.

Before kicko at 3:30 p.m. at Raymond James Stadium, the Fan Invasion will host free pregame activities for the community. Local bands, a DJ and the Soul Circus Cowboys will perform.

“We will once again host the participating bands, spirit squads and fans at the Tampa Convention Center adjacent to The Sail, where they will hear from each head coach, select players and hear the sounds of each team that will surely get fans excited for kicko ,” Glaser said.

The teams that will play in the bowl game won’t be selected until Sunday, December 8, but the Gasparilla has primary, yet flexible, agreements with the ACC, AAC and SEC.

While the game is just one afternoon, the Gasparilla Bowl aims to host partners

By Lily Belcher

and community leaders at events throughout the year. These events include a Kicko Cruise, Inshore Fishing Tournament, Bowl Season Kicko and the Gasparilla Parade VIP Tent.

Since forming its partnership with the Gasparilla Bowl in 2008, Union Home Mortgage has also played a “crucial role in enhancing the event’s outreach and impact.”

In addition to exciting game-day plans and events throughout the year, the bowl has partnered with Reddit CFB to boost fan engagement during the game. Fans can share their thoughts in real-time, and standout comments will be featured during the fourth quarter.

The red zone will also be named the ‘/r/ CFB Red Zone.’ The title will reflect “the unique community flair and passion that has defined Reddit’s college football fans for over 15 years,” Glaser said.

Preparation for the Gasparilla Bowl is a yearlong process with events and activities hosted throughout the year to engage the Tampa Bay community.

For more information on the Gasparilla Bowl, events preceding kicko or purchase game tickets, visit www.gasparillabowl.com.

NEW EXPERIENCES AND HOLIDAY

MAGIC AWAIT AT WINTER VILLAGE IN TAMPA’S DOWNTOWN

Get ready to celebrate the holiday season like never before with Winter Village Tampa, presented by the Tampa Bay Lightning, in Tampa’s downtown, running now through January 5, 2025, with unforgettable new attractions for all ages.

As the Tampa Downtown Partnership transforms Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park into a cozy wonderland, Winter Village becomes the perfect place to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit — o ering everything from festive skating and shopping to delicious treats and heartwarming entertainment.

Prepare to be dazzled by the Tampa Bay Ice Show, debuting this year. On select nights, artistry meets athleticism as skilled skaters twirl, glide and leap on real ice, bringing holiday magic to life against the beautiful backdrop of the Hillsborough River. All shows start at 7 p.m. and are 10 minutes long. Show schedule: Tuesday, December 24 (Special Christmas Eve Show); Tuesday, December 31 (Special New Year’s Eve Show); January 3, 2025; January 4, 2025; and January 5, 2025.

Stroll through the Shops of Winter Village, delivered by PODS Moving and Storage, where local businesses and boutiques o er handpicked gifts. This year’s market is its biggest yet.

Enjoy seasonal flavors at the Winter Village Café with delicious options like gourmet crepes, craft cocktails from Icicles, co ee from Mi Cafecito and sweet treats from Whatever Pops.

Ice skating on real ice is a signature Winter Village experience, and this year brings even more fun to the rink. Tickets are now on sale. For $17, skaters enjoy 90 minutes of ice time and an included skate rental — perfect for date night, family fun or simply enjoying the season.

New this year, skaters joining themed skate nights will be entered into a weekly ra e. Join the fun and show o your best moves on these Tuesday events and you could win an exciting prize, including giveaways from the Tampa Bay Lightning, Straz Center and Winter Village Tampa.

• December 10 — National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.

• December 17 — Lightning Bolts & Snowflakes.

• December 24 — Ugly Holiday Sweater.

• December 31 — Holiday Shimmer. Embrace your Tampa Bay Lightning pride every Thursday with themed food and beverage and a big dose of Bolts excitement.

Dance under the stars with silent disco headphones every Friday from 6-9 p.m. Headphones are first come, first served. Street Curling is also back. Grab a friend and join in the holiday-fueled fun on the curling lanes, available Wednesday through Sunday. -

Hop aboard the Winter Village Express and take a magical holiday trip on the TECO Line Streetcar. On select Sundays, this one-hour, round-trip ride from downtown’s Whiting Station to historic Ybor City features holiday sing-alongs, trivia, milk and cookies and festive surprises for the whole family.

Join everyone in celebrating the magic of the season at Tampa’s Winter Village — where holiday memories are made. For more information, including a full schedule, visit the event website at https://wintervillagetampa.com/.

Winter Village in Tampa’s downtown is back now through January 5, 2025, with new family-friendly fun and returning favorites like ice skating.

Tampa Bay’s Gasparilla Bowl hosts events throughout the year for fans and community engagement.

Gasparilla Bowl hosts pregame entertainment.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH PLANT CITY UNVEILS ‘THE LIGHT OF CHRISTMAS’ ANNUAL DRIVE-IN LIGHT SHOW

First Baptist Church Plant City invites the community to experience the magic of the holiday season with ‘The Light of Christmas,’ an annual light and music show.

Running nightly from 6-10 p.m. through January 5, the light show has become a cherished community tradition, blending technology and faith into an unforgettable holiday experience. This dazzling spectacle features thousands of synchronized lights, uplifting music and inspiring video elements. Visitors can enjoy the show from the comfort of their cars by tuning in to a custom FM channel.

“When the pandemic limited our gathering opportunities in 2020, our media director had this idea for a light show. It would be a way to use our space to bring people together, spread Christmas joy through lights and music and share the Christmas story and the gospel. The focus is the same each

WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA DAY RETURNS ON DECEMBER 14

By Taylor Wells

Staff Report

year, and we continue to use the show as a means to reach people with the good news of Jesus Christ.”

First Baptist Church Plant City has been a cornerstone of the community since its founding in 1866. With a legacy spanning 158 years, the church continues to bring people together, fostering faith and fellowship. With a rich history and a forward-looking mission, the church continues to serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for Plant City and beyond.

The main campus, located at 3309 James L. Redman Parkway in Plant City, has been home to the congregation since 2017, under the leadership of Senior Pastor Dr. Brian Stowe, who joined in 2013. For more information about The Light of Christmas or other church events, please visit www.fbcpc.com.

It’s that time of year again — not just the season of holiday cheer and giving, but also the time of remembering the fallen, honoring those who serve and teaching the next generation the value of freedom with Wreaths Across America (WAA).

The yearlong mission of WAA, a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization started in 2007, is carried out in part each year by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies at thousands of participating locations in all 50 states and beyond. On Saturday, December 14, our heroes will be celebrated with National Wreaths Across America Day, and it comes with a new theme.

“The theme for 2024 is ‘Live with Purpose,’ and we hope to continue to grow our reach to show future generations how to show appreciation for our veterans and our country,” said Wayne Hanson, Vietnam War veteran and chairman of the WAA Board of Directors. “We want to continue to thank our Gold Star families for their sacrifices, welcome home our Vietnam veterans and uphold a promise to them that we will never let their service and loved ones be forgotten.”

Locally, Serenity Meadows Memorial Park, Funeral Home and Crematory will again be helping to host WAA Day. There, everyone will gather at 9 a.m., and the ceremony will be from 10 a.m.-12 Noon.

“Serenity Meadows is deeply honored to host Wreaths Across America as a

heartfelt tribute to our fallen veterans,” said Bridgette Soto, general manager of Serenity Meadows. “This event allows us to bring our community together in a spirit of unity, remembrance and gratitude. Our goal is to provide a supportive and inclusive space where families and friends can hon- or the brave men and women who have served our country. We hope to see many in attendance this year.”

Serenity Meadows has already surpassed its 600-wreath donation goal. Those looking to volunteer can visit Serenity Meadows’ WAA webpage, or they can simply show up that morning to help lay the wreaths. They will be guided on where to go.

“As our executive director, Karen Worcester, has said, living with purpose is a mindset,” said Hanson. “Through the Wreaths Across America mission, we can put that mindset into action and honor the lives of our heroes, showing our gratitude with acts of service and remembrance.”

For more about Wreaths Across America, ways to get involved and other locations hosting the event, visit www. wreathsacrossamerica.org. For Serenity Meadows’ WAA webpage, visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/pages/45982/overview/.

Wreaths laid on National Wreaths Across America Day in 2022 at Serenity Meadows Memorial Park, Funeral Home and Crematory.

LOCALSHOP

HISTORY TALKS DISCUSS GROWTH DRIVEN BY RAILWAY DEVELOPMENT

By Libby Hopkins

The Plant City History & Photo Archives recently formed a partnership with the Tampa Bay History Center and the Brandon Historical and Preservation Society to connect local history. Once this partnership was formed, the three groups realized that there was a lot of historical overlap between the communities. The overlap that connected the communities were the railroads.

“When we had our meet-and-greet meeting, we wanted to collaborate on a history talk,” said Libby Hopkins, community outreach manager for The Plant City History & Photo Archives. “During our meeting, we realized that the local railroads connected our communities, so we wanted our first history talk be about the railroads.”

To discuss the importance of the development of railroads for the growth of the area, Gil Gott, archive historian; Michael Wigh, author, Henry B. Plant Museum docent and Hillsborough County historian; and Rodney Kite-Powell, Tampa Bay History Center director, attended.

The three stations discussed were Tampa Union Station, Limona Station and Plant City Station.

“Tampa Union Station was the first station picked … because of its rich history with the Tampa community,” Hopkins said. Tampa Union Station, located at 601 N.

Nebraska Ave. in Tampa, lies at the eastern edge of downtown Tampa and stands as the gateway to Ybor City.

Designed by architect J.F. Leitner of Wilmington,

North Carolina, who later became a Tampa resident himself, the Italian Renaissance Revival-style building was opened on May 15, 1912, by the Tampa Union Station Company. Its original purpose was to combine passenger operations for the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad, the Seaboard Air Line Railroad and the Tampa Northern Railroad at a single site.

Tampa Union Station served railroad passengers throughout the Great Depression, both World Wars and into the Amtrak era. In 1974, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Restoration of Tampa Union Station was a multiyear e ort, with Rowe Architects serving as historic preservation architect for the project. Restoration was completed in May 1998 and reopened to Amtrak passengers and the public. CSX donated the station to the city of Tampa that same year.

The Plant City Photo Archives is located in Historic Downtown Plant City at 106 S. Evers St. in Plant City. Call 813-754-1578 or visit the website at www.plantcityphotoarchives.org.

EASTERSEALS LIMITLESS LEARNING SHARES TOP HOLIDAY SENSORY GIFT IDEAS, PLANS DEC. OPENING

With the holidays approaching, families are searching for the perfect gifts for their little ones, but with countless toy options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why the Easterseals School for Limitless Learning, a new private school in Valrico for children who are neurodiverse or have related disabilities from infancy through second grade, is excited to share its holiday sensory gift guide, featuring 10 sensory-friendly toys that foster development, creativity, and connection.

Popper, Keva blocks, National Geographic’s stepping stones, a Bilibo active play toy, Warmies stu ed animals, Sarah’s Silks and a variety of other sensory kits.

Dr. Janine Stewart, the school’s director, said, “At the Easterseals School for Limitless Learning, we are dedicated to celebrating the individuality of each child. Our holiday sensory gift guide reflects this commitment, and I hope it helps families find the toys that will bring the greatest joy to their children.”

The educators at the Easterseals School for Limitless Learning have curated a selection of sensory-friendly toys to make holiday shopping easier for families. These toys provide stimulation to both sensory seekers and avoiders to engage children’s senses and assist with regulation.

The recommendations include sensory play kits, gross motor balance and rocking equipment and tactile items to engage and support the unique needs of neurodiverse and neurotypical children this holiday season. These include a Teeter

In addition to helping with gift ideas, the Easterseals School for Limitless Learning is kicking o the holiday season with a celebration of its own. The community is invited to the school’s o cial ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new campus in the BayCare Health Hub (Bloomingdale) on Monday, December 9, from 10 a.m.-12 Noon, with the ribbon-cutting taking place promptly at 10:30 a.m. The event will celebrate the school’s recent opening, showcasing festive holiday decorations and welcoming elected o cials, representatives from Easterseals Florida, chambers of commerce members, partners and other invited guests.

If you’re looking for another way to contribute this holiday season, community members are encouraged to the Limitless PossAbilities Scholarship Fund. This fund supports neurodiverse children by providing financial assistance for the educational programs at the Easterseals School for Limitless Learning. Donations can be made securely online at https:// bit.ly/limitlesspossabilities.

Easterseals School for Limitless Learning at 813-236-5589 or limitlesslearning@fl.easterseals.com.

Kinetic sand is one of many sensory toys on the market that are fun and helpful for neurodiverse children.

History Talks is a collaboration between e Plant City History & Photo Archives, e Tampa Bay History Center and e Brandon Historical and Preservation Society.

REVOLUTIONIZING GOLF: THE GOLF CLOCK’S INNOVATIVE APPROACH

How do you turn a complex golf swing into something anyone can learn? For Stacey Keisler, the answer was clear: Simplify the learning process.

Stacey Keisler, a seasoned golf instructor, saw the same problem time and again when coaching students.

“Most people can’t visualize how to swing a golf club,” Keisler said. “We can tell you where to put your elbows, arms and hands, but sometimes words alone just aren’t enough.”

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

with ease.

Priced at $89.99, The Golf Clock costs about the same as a single golf lesson, but its benefi ts last far longer.

“It’s going to change the way people learn how to play golf,” Keisler said.

The positive response has been immediate. Since its release, the tool has quickly gained attention from both amateurs and seasoned golfers alike.

Determined to change that, Keisler and his partner, Robert Propper, created The Golf Clock, a hands-on training aid designed to make learning golf as straightforward as reading a clock.

The Golf Clock uses visual and physical cues to guide players into the right positions for every part of their swing. By breaking down the swing into easyto-follow steps, the training aid eliminates the guesswork and helps golfers build muscle memory faster than ever. Instead of simply trying to follow verbal instructions, players can use The Golf Clock as a reference to guide their movements, making the learning process both easier and more e ective. With the clear, physical markers, the tool allows users to practice in the right positions

For now, The Golf Clock is exclusively available at Ace Golf. This partnership ensures that golfers can see the product fi rsthand and get expert advice from knowledgeable sta .

“There are millions of golfers out there,” Keisler said. “Even if we touch just a fraction of them, we’ll be changing the game.”

Purchase The Golf Clock today at Ace Golf and take the fi rst step toward improving your swing. This innovative tool is ready to help you master the game with ease and confi dence.

Ace Golf is located at 12910 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. For more information about Ace Golf, visit https://ace-golf. com/. For more information on The Golf Clock, please visit https://thegolfclockvts.com/.

DURANT HIGH SCHOOL AFJROTC CADETS CELEBRATE VETERANS’ SERVICE WITH

FREEDOM FLIGHT SEND-OFF

Durant High School’s Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) recently gathered at Tampa International Airport (TPA) to welcome a group of veterans as they prepared to depart on the Freedom Flight.

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

This flight takes veterans on an all-expenses-paid journey to Washington, D.C., where they can visit national war memorials that commemorate their service and sacrifices. Sponsored by the Hardee County and Highlands County Rotary Clubs, the Freedom Flight has taken nearly 400 veterans on this memorable trip over the past 13 years.

Durant’s AFJROTC cadets lined the corridor, cheering and holding handmade signs to greet the veterans as they made their way to the terminal. The cadets also prepared heartfelt letters, which the veterans would later receive during the trip as part of a “mail call” tradition. This personal connection is one that the cadets value, as it allows them to express their gratitude directly.

“Our cadets were excited for this opportunity because they love being involved in our unit events and giving back to the community, especially the veteran community,” said Maj. Je ery Baumgart, senior instructor for the AFJROTC.

On the road from Hardee County to TPA, the veterans were greeted by Hardee High School’s JROTC, Highlands County law enforcement and the Freedom Motorcycle Riders. They enjoyed breakfast sponsored

by the Men’s Fellowship of First Baptist Church and Southwest Airlines provided a special plane, Freedom One, decorated with the U.S. flag for the veterans’ flight.

For the Durant High School AFJROTC, the opportunity to honor veterans as they depart on the Freedom Flight is both a privilege and a meaningful tradition. The cadets view it as a chance to show respect for those who were not welcomed home from war.

Being a part of the Freedom Flight aligns closely with the core values of the Durant AFJROTC program, which has earned a Distinguished Unit with Merit award for several years. This recognition reflects the cadets’ dedication to community service and character building, as emphasized in their mission of ‘developing citizens of character.’

Many students join Durant’s AFJROTC to develop leadership skills and connect with a program that fosters discipline and teamwork. Some cadets have aspirations of joining the military, while others are drawn by the chance to build friendships and be part of a close-knit group that values service.

The Freedom Flight is an opportunity for the cadets to put their values into action and learn directly from the veterans they admire. Durant’s AFJROTC cadets are proud to contribute to this meaningful experience, bridging generations in shared respect and appreciation.

Stacey Keisler and Robert Propper, the creators of e Golf Clock, are changing the way golfers learn and perfect their swing.

Durant High School AFJROTC cadets cheer as they celebrate and thank veterans for their service.

Hillsborough Community College Spring 2025 Registration Open

Spring 2025 registration is open for all new and returning students at Hillsborough Community College (HCC). Classes begin on January 7, 2025, at all campuses, satellite locations and online. Registration is available at www. hccfl.edu/registernow for existing students. Registration and application information for new students can be found at www.hccfl. edu/admissions. HCC o ers flexible class schedules and course delivery options. Tuition at HCC is significantly less than the cost of public universities, private colleges and for-profit institutions. In 2022, the college was listed as the only Florida college with the lowest net price among other U.S. two-year public institutions, via the U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics and Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).

veniently located between Tampa and Orlando.

Avelo’s newest route to Nashville International Airport (BNA) will begin on March 6, 2025, with twice-weekly service on Thursdays and Sundays. Celebratory one-way fares start at $49, and travelers can book at www.aveloair. com.

Bullaro, Our Lady’s Pantry director. No special license is required to drive the truck. Can you help? Email Bullaro at tom92801@gmail.com or call him at 813-741-2000.

Win Tickets To Bucs vs. Saints Game anks To Crime Stoppers

Avelo also launched three new nonstop routes from LAL: Atlanta, Georgia (ATL); Hartford, Connecticut (BDL); and Philadelphia/Wilmington, Delaware (ILG). Additionally, last month Avelo launched four routes from LAL: Charlotte/Concord, North Carolina (USA); Boston/Manchester, New Hampshire (MHT); Rochester, New York (ROC); and San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU), bringing the total number of routes from LAL to eight.

Suncoast Credit Union Donates

$250,000 To e American Red Cross Of Central Florida

Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay is excited to o er you the chance to win four premium tickets to the Bucs vs. Saints game on January 5, 2025, at Raymond James Stadium. These 50-yard line seats in section 110, row G, are valued at over $1,500, and they could be yours. Tickets for the ra e are $50 and can be purchased at www.ze y.com/en-us/ ticketing/crime-stoppers-of-tampa-baysbucs-football-game-ra e. The drawing will take place on Friday, December 20.

South Bay Genealogical Society Meeting

HCC serves more than 45,000 students annually at its five campuses located throughout Tampa Bay. For more information, visit www.hccfl.edu.

Avelo Airlines Announces New Routes From Lakeland International Airport

Avelo Airlines recently announced a new route to Nashville, Tennessee, and celebrated the start of three more new routes from its base of operations at Central Florida’s Lakeland International Airport (LAL), con-

Suncoast Credit Union, Florida’s largest credit union, continues its dedication to hurricane recovery e orts with a $250,000 donation to the American Red Cross of Central Florida. This latest contribution is part of Suncoast’s $850,000 statewide relief commitment to provide critical aid to Floridians facing immediate and long-term challenges following the storms. The $850,000 commitment focuses on key areas essential to recovery: hunger relief, crisis management and education.

Our Lady’s Pantry In Need Of Strong Drivers

Our Lady’s Pantry, a food-based charity in Ruskin, is looking for drivers who can also lift boxes weighing 20 or more pounds.

“Regrettably, many of the vendors where we pick up food are unable to lend a hand, and we must load our truck ourselves. Many of our drivers are physically unable to do this, and it has become a huge problem,” said Tom

The January meeting of the South Bay Genealogical Society (SBGS) will take place on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, starting at 10:30 a.m. with an optional roundtable discussion, followed by a sit-down luncheon at 12 Noon. Following the luncheon, guest speaker Lori Co ey will present ‘The CCCs History and Records.’ The cost of the meal and presentation is $18; please make your check payable to SBGS, and mail to South Bay Genealogical Society, P.O. Box 5202, Sun City Center, FL 33571. Your check must be received by January 9, 2025. The SBGS meets at the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center’s Life Center, located at 1971 Haverford Ave. in Sun City Center.

pa’s Yuengling Center on April 3 at 7 p.m. Their No. 1 track, “Say I Won’t,” from their inhale (exhale) album, was recently certified gold by the RIAA, bringing the band’s certification tally to total 16 gold, platinum and multiplatinum singles and albums. MercyMe is currently in their studio working on a new album that is scheduled to be released in 2025.

Tickets for this event are on sale at www.ticketmaster.com. Ticket prices are $25, $29, $37.50, $49.50, $67 and $79 and are subject to change without notice. Prices do not include facility fee or service charges. Advanced parking passes are available at www.parkwhiz.com. Get connected with MercyMe at https://mercyme.org/.

Riverview High School Is Hiring Coaches

MercyMe Coming To Tampa’s Yuengling Center

Grammy-nominated band MercyMe has announced that their spring 2025 MERCYME LIVE TOUR, with Zach Williams and special guest Sam Wesley, will stop at Tam-

Riverview High School is located in the Tampa/Hillsborough County area. It is a big 6A program with 100-plus players, and it is in need of coaches of all levels (experience and no experience). The school is looking for coaches for all positions and a defensive coordinator. It does have teaching positions available to individuals with professional FLDOE certification. Currently, there are openings in math, english, reading and social studies. If interested and would like more details, please text at 813-815-0310 or email antonio.rodriguez@hcps.net.

Lifestyle, Location and Savings To Love

Three Award-Winning Home Builders in Tampa

First-time homebuyers get the best value for their money when they step into a Centex home. From our collection of smart, flexible floor plans to our timeless designs and inviting communities, Centex has what you’re looking for in a place to call home.

Using your mobile camera, scan here to see current availability centex.com/tampa

Using your mobile camera, scan here to see current availability pulte.com/tampa

Pulte builds homes with the homeowner top of mind. We focus on what’s important; building beautiful, quality designs that bring families together. Our insightful Life Tested® design features make everyday moments easier and more enjoyable.

No one understands the importance of community like Del Webb. That’s why we can say we offer much more than a beautiful home; we offer a place to belong. Our homes are designed for how you want to live, with the features you want and amenities that are second to none.

55+ Active Adult Communities

Using your mobile camera, scan here to see current availability delwebb.com/tampa

DONOVAN’S MEATERY CELEBRATES ITS GRAND REOPENING WITH THE COMMUNITY

Donovan’s Meatery is a local and favorite restaurant of many in the Riverview community.

“We have that South Tampa feel right here in our Brandon and Riverview communities,” said new owner John Camisa. “We love being a part of our community and serving the community some awesome food.”

Camisa has been a part of the Datz Restaurant Group for 15 years, and the restaurant group was the original owners of Donovan’s Meatery.

“When Roger and Susie decided to close or sell parts of their restaurants, because of my tenure with Datz they didn’t want me to walk away from the restaurant business,” Camisa said. “So, we worked out a plan for me to purchase the restaurant.”

Camisa, along with Donovan’s general manager, Ashley Clairmonte, has made the ownership transition go very well without any major changes to Donovan’s.

Camisa and his sta at Donovan’s wanted to have a grand reopening celebration with the community who has supported the restaurant since the new ownership. The grand reopening celebration took place on November 21.

“We wanted to have a big event to thank the community for supporting us over the last year,” Camisa said. “We

By Libby Hopkins

had more than 400 RSVPs for the grand reopening celebration, which featured a ribbon-cutting, a step and repeat, appetizers and an open bar. A great night was had by all.”

If you ask Camisa what he likes most about being the new owner of Donovan’s, he will tell you it the steaks Donovan’s offers.

“I’m a meat and potatoes kind of guy, so this is right in my wheelhouse as far as food goes,” Camisa said. “Before I started working for Datz Restaurant Group, I ran a steakhouse in the Northern Virginia area, so steaks are something I’m used to. I love the fine-dining element we o er at Donovan’s, and it has elevated to a whole other level. We really o er some great food to our guests.”

If you’d like to learn more about the delicious food o ered at Donovan’s Meatery or if you’d like to check out its well-known happy hour specials, visit its website at https://donovansmeatery. com/. Reservations are not required to dine at Donovan’s, but they are highly recommended to ensure you have a table at the community’s favorite restaurant. To reserve a table, call 813-548-0015. Donovan’s Meatery is located at 11206 Sullivan St. in Riverview.

CHRISTMAS-THEMED EVENTS AND PERFORMANCES COMING TO MUSIC SHOWCASE AND FAOPA

Music Showcase and the Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA) are bringing Christmas early with holiday-themed events throughout December.

Kicking o the holidays with Parents’ Night Out, FAOPA is o ering a Polar Express and Santa’s Workshop for kids from 5-12 years old.

At this winter-themed pajama party, kids will watch movies, play games and do arts and crafts. The feature of the event will be a chance for kids to make five gifts for their family and friends that volunteers will wrap. Dinner, usually pizza, will also be provided for the kids, and movies will be G-rated.

By Lily Belcher

took a bath. She was like, ‘I literally went home. I took a bath and I watched a movie,’” Stump recalled. “‘And I knew my kid was in good hands,’ she said.” Parents’ Night Out, on Friday, December 6, will be from 5:30-10 p.m. It is $30 for FAOPA students and $35 for those not enrolled in a FAOPA program. Siblings are $15 each.

“This is a way for them to make their own thing that they really like, and they made it themselves, … and then they’re able to stick it under the tree with a little name tag on it,” Heather Stump, owner of Music Showcase, said.

If the arts and crafts for kids aren’t enough, the event also o ers parents an evening to get some Christmas shopping done or relax.

“I had a mom one time tell me that she

As we enter the holiday season, your life may well become busier. Still, you might want to take the time to consider some financial moves before we turn the calendar to 2025.

Here are a few suggestions:

• Review your investment portfolio . As you look at your portfolio, ask these questions: Has its performance met my expectations this year? Does it still reflect my goals, risk tolerance and time horizon? Do I need to rebalance? You might find that working with a financial professional can help you answer these and other questions you may have about your investments.

• Add to your 401(k) and HSA . If you can afford it, and your employer allows it, consider putting more money into your 401(k) before the year ends — including “catch-up” contributions if you’re 50 or older. You might also want to add to your health savings account (HSA) by the tax-filing deadline in April.

• Use your FSA dollars. Unlike an HSA, a flexible spending account (FSA) works on a “use-it-orlose-it” basis, meaning you lose any unspent funds at the end of the year. So, if you still have funds left in your account, try to use them up in 2024. (Employers may grant a 2½ month extension, so check with your human resources area to see if this is the case where you work.)

• Contribute to a 529 plan. If you haven’t opened a 529 education savings plan for your children, think about doing so this year. With a 529 plan, your earnings can grow tax deferred, and your withdrawals are federally tax free when used for qualified education expenses — tuition, fees, books and so on. And if you invest in your

Music Showcase and FAOPA will also host a free Christmas recital on Saturday, December 21, with concerts running all day. People of all ages are performing at the recital, with the youngest performer being just 5 years old and the oldest being 77 years old.

Attendees can come and go as they please throughout the day.

“So, we o er recitals several times a year, and our Christmas one is a really big one,” Stump said. “It’s all decorated, and we’ve got a place for them to take pictures, and they just really enjoy coming.”

For more information on Music Showcase and FAOPA’s winter events and live performances or to purchase Parents’ Night Out tickets, visit https://faopa.org/.

own state’s 529 plan, you might be able to deduct your contributions from your state income tax or receive a state tax credit.

• Build your emergency fund . It’s generally a good idea to keep up to six months’ worth of living expenses in an emergency fund, with the money held in a liquid, low-risk account. Without such a fund in place, you might be forced to dip into your retirement funds to pay for short-term needs, such as a major car or home repair.

• Review your estate plans. If you’ve experienced any changes in your family situation this year, such as marriage, remarriage or the birth of a child, you may want to update your estate-planning documents to reflect your new situation. It’s also important to look at the beneficiary designations on your investment accounts, retirement plans, IRAs and insurance policies, as these designations can sometimes even supersede the instructions you’ve left in your will. And if you haven’t started estate planning, there’s no time like the present.

• Take your RMDs. If you’re 73 or older, you will likely need to take withdrawals — called required minimum distributions, or RMDs — from some of your retirement accounts, such as your traditional IRA. If you don’t take these withdrawals each year, you could be subject to penalties.

These aren’t the only moves you can make, but they may prove helpful not only for 2024 but in the years to come.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Dec. 9, 2024

Music Showcase and the Florida Academy of Performing Arts will host winter-themed events for kids and members of the community.

2709 E. College Ave., Ruskin, FL 33570

Discover the future of cancer care at our state-of-the-art, 75,000-square-foot facility in Ruskin. Opening in January 2025, this advanced center is designed to enhance patient experiences and improve clinical outcomes with leading-edge technology at every turn.

The Moffitt SouthShore facility brings Florida’s only Comprehensive Cancer Care closer to your home, offering:

Access to Groundbreaking Clinical Trials

Advanced Imaging & Laboratories

Cancer Screenings & Diagnostic Clinics

Medical Oncology & Radiation Oncology

For the best cancer outcomes, choose Moffitt first. Learn more at Moffitt.org/Outcomes

Muma Children’s Hospital At TGH Opens DeBartolo Family Nutrition Center For Infants And Babies

Muma Children’s Hospital at Tampa General Hospital (TGH) and the Jennifer Leigh Muma Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) received a generous $1 million gift from the DeBartolo Family Foundation to establish the DeBartolo Family Nutrition Center for Infants and Children. The nutrition center will provide a modernized, dedicated space for handling, storing and distributing breast milk and formula. Center operations will label, organize and identify milk and formula containers using scannable barcode systems linked to each patient, providing customized recipes for each infant’s developmental needs.

collaborative approach, clear communication, and supportive leadership, which have been instrumental in creating a thriving educational environment for students who are neurodiverse or have other related disabilities.

earned her degree in elementary education. She is a certified public educator who has earned additional certifications in both health and exceptional student education.

“As an academic health system, we are committed to revolutionizing how we care for all the babies and mothers we serve,” said Melissa Golombek, vice president of Muma Children’s Hospital at TGH and TGH Women’s Institute.

Southshore

Wealth Management Serves You With Integrity

Southshore Wealth Management, owned by Mike McCormick, is an independent financial services firm committed to guiding you forward with upfront, data informed fi-

nancial advice and a devoted concierge level service. Extensive industry knowledge and experience are the basis of your custom financial strategy, designed to support your lifestyle now and into the future. Southshore Wealth Management is located at 1601 Rickenbacker Dr. Ste. 1 in Sun City Center. For more information visit its website at www. southshorewlth.com or call 813 499 9247.

Sue Ventura, president and CEO of Easterseals Florida, said, “This award is only given once a year and to one winner who demonstrates outstanding leadership. Dr. Stewart has accomplished so much this year in moving the Easterseals School for Limitless Learning from a concept to a reality, all while bringing the existing team closer and embracing her brand-new team.”

Media Contact: Danielle Caci Public Relations Manager (813) 844-4666 dcaci@tgh.org Muma Children’s Hospital at TGH Opens DeBartolo Family Nutrition Center for Infants and Children to Support Babies in the Jennifer Leigh Muma NICU

To learn more about Easterseals Florida’s local programs and services, visit www.easterseals.com/florida/.

Perez was elected to the Hillsborough County School Board, representing countywide District 6, in 2018. Perez holds a master’s degree in social work and is a licensed clinical social worker in Florida and New York. She currently works with patients and families at the James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital and operates a private practice, Embracing Changes Center for Wellness.

Dr. Janine Stewart Honored With Leadership Award Easterseals Florida proudly announces Dr. Janine Stewart, director of the Easterseals School for Limitless Learning, as the recipient of the 2024 Rhoda and Bert Ventura Leadership Award. This annual award celebrates exceptional dedication to Easterseals’ mission and recognizes the influential leaders who help shape the nonprofit’s success. Dr. Stewart was nominated by her peers for her

Hillsborough County School Board Announces New Chair And Vice Chair

Muma Children’s Hospital at TGH celebrated the opening of a new nutrition center

Superintendent Van Ayres commented on the new leadership, stating, “We are excited to work with our newly elected board leadership as we build on our progress and tackle key priorities. Together, we are focused on expanding pathways for student achievement and continuing the gains we have made this past year.”

Tampa, FL (Oct. 23, 2024) – Muma Children’s Hospital at Tampa General Hospital (TGH) and the Jennifer Leigh Muma Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) received a generous $1 million gift from the DeBartolo Family Foundation to establish the DeBartolo Family Nutrition Center for Infants and Children.

Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) announced the election of new leadership on the school board following the annual reorganization meeting. The board elected Jessica Vaughn as chair and Karen Perez as vice chair. Vaughn was elected to the board, representing District 3, in 2020. She is a graduate of the University of South Florida, where she

The nutrition center will provide a modernized, dedicated space for handling , storing and distributing breast milk and formula Center operations will label, organize and identify milk and formula containers using a scannable barcode system linked to each patient , providing customized recipes for each infant’s developmental needs.

Hillsborough Community College Hires New Director Of Marketing And Strategic Communications

Hillsborough Community College (HCC) is pleased to announce the hiring of Kaley In-

“As an academic health system, we are committed to revolutionizing how we care for the all the babies and mothers we serve,” said Melissa Golombek, vice president of Muma Children's Hospital at TGH and TGH Women's Institute. “The addition of the nutrition center helps to ensure that every infant in our NICU receives milk or formula tailored to their unique nutritional requirements.”

The DeBartolo Family Foundation , established by Edward J. DeBartolo Jr. , has donated more than $17 million to TGH’s Foundation since 2019. DeBartolo’s daughter Nikki and her husband , Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister, are longtime supporters of the hospital. “It’s easy for some people to just write a check and not see where it ’s going, but to actually see all the great things and how many babies this is going to help is amazing,” said Nikki DeBartolo.

WHY CHOOSE US?

“Freedom

AREA FRONTIER PILOTS JOIN TOGETHER IN HURRICANE RELIEF EFFORTS

Pilots are known for their exceptional skills in the air, but for a local group of professional aviators their greatest impact was recently felt on the ground in communities throughout the Tampa Bay area.

A handful of selfless Frontier Airlines pilots came together last week to not only assist their fellow aviators recover following the devastation resulting from Hurricanes Helene and Milton but to also do their part in helping heal the Greater Tampa Bay community.

For Jason DuVernay, a Frontier pilot and Brandon resident, the impact was personal. He saw the destruction caused to his parents’ home on Anna Maria Island as well as his own home in Brandon and was compelled to take action.

“When you deal with hurricane devastation, … you walk into a house, you look around and you just absolutely do not know where to begin,” DuVernay said. “It wears on you on such a deep, emotional level.”

DuVernay currently flies out of San Juan, Puerto Rico, but was previously based out of Tampa International Airport. It was there that he got to know many of his co-workers on a more personal level. With hundreds of pilots living in the Tampa Bay region, the impact of the two disasters just weeks apart couldn’t be ignored.

“[Frontier Airlines Air Line Pilots Association Chair] Captain Mike Maynard was aware of this as well, and he said, ‘Let’s utilize the RV to bring relief not just to the pilots, but also to the community,’” DuVernay said.

Frontier ALPA (Air Line Pilots Association), the union representing Frontier Airlines pilots, has a mobile communications center RV that it uses for pilot outreach and unity-building events. With it sitting idle in Denver, Colorado, Maynard thought there was no better way of putting it to use than to help with hurricane recovery efforts.

To make it happen, however, Maynard needed a driver.

With that, DuVernay contacted Roger Hanchak — a fellow Frontier Airlines Tampa-based pilot — who was happy to accept the arduous task of flying out to Denver to pick up the bus for a more than 27-hour road trip to Atlanta, where Maynard took over.

“I got my CDL a couple years ago,” Hanchak said. “I like driving big trucks.”

So, with the opportunity to both drive the bus and make a difference in his communi ty, Hanchak sprang into ac tion to help, even if it meant losing a few hours of sleep.

“I flew out to Denver in the morning on Saturday,” Hanchak said. “I got there and spent a couple hours making it roadworthy because it had been parked for a while.”

Riding solo, Hanchak’s journey saw him drive 12 hours on the first day, stopping only to get some rest at a hotel before continuing on for the last 15 hours to Atlanta, Georgia, where Maynard and his wife, Sara, then took the keys.

Back in Florida, DuVernay worked in coordination with Radiant Church while Maynard and his wife — who are both Frontier pilots — filled the bus with diapers, paper towels, cleaning products and nonperishable food items to distribute to those in need.

When the bus arrived in Florida, nine Frontier ALPA pilots and their families came together to not only help their affected co-workers rebuild but also to assist people across the Tampa Bay communities in getting

the daily necessities they had been left without.

Storm surges from the hurricanes devastated properties, and high winds left some without power for days. Throughout it all, the tight-knit Tampa pilot group made it a point to check in on each other.

“The pilots are an integral part of the community,” DuVernay said. “A lot of the pilots in this base have been here for a very long time.”

As news of the damage spread, the Frontier ALPA pilot volunteers sprang into action to go above and beyond to help their own who were directly affected.

The journey took the volunteers all over Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. At each of their stops, the scenes were eerily similar.

Piles of debris scattered across yards, personal keepsakes forever ruined.

In Apollo Beach, Frontier Airlines pilot Christa Atwood’s house was strewn with debris. After learning of Atwood’s situation, the volunteers showed up to help patch up her patio screen and remove hurricane shutters.

“It felt like we were family,” Atwood said. “Trying to get professionals out there would have taken a lot longer.”

Fellow Frontier pilot Roxanne Lambie and her family had recently moved into a home on the coast of Port Richey. The hurricanes

By Tyler DiSalle

left them with nothing but a house she said is currently unlivable.

Lambie said all her money was put into fixing up the home they purchased in June, leaving them with very little.

Feeling a bit lost and unsure of where to turn, she documented the destruction on social media and immediately heard from DuVernay, asking how he could be of assistance. Six volunteers later showed up at her house to help Lambie and her family rebuild.

“All of the help that we have gotten, … both financially and then just physical labor, has just been absolutely amazing,” Lambie said. “I don’t know what we would do without the people who have helped us.”

And despite the devastation, she feels an overarching sentiment of people wanting to do good for others — something she hopes to pay forward should another disaster strike.

“I’ve always said we have an amazing pilot group,” Lambie said. “This reinforced that.”

Pilot volunteer and Tampa-based Frontier pilot Steve Sorbie said it was imperative for everyone to stick together and “keep the sense of camaraderie. That’s what Florida people do.”

Last Friday, after learning via social media of a need for more hands on deck for a Hurricane Milton outreach event hosted by the Angel Foundation FL, an organization that provides families in the Greater Brandon area with resources during life-threatening illnesses and catastrophic events, the Frontier ALPA pilot volunteers stepped up.

Angel Foundation FL CEO Liz Brewer said the event allowed those affected by the hurricane to leave with food, clothing and information from Senator Marco Rubio’s office on how to move forward with FEMA assistance in the wake of the disasters.

While the recovery and healing that comes with it is far from complete, the contributions of Frontier’s ALPA pilot volunteers and the feelings of hope have been impactful.

TREES FOR TROOPS AND MACDILL AFB GIVES FREE CHRISTMAS TREES TO MILITARY FAMILIES

Each year, MacDill Air Force Base (AFB) coordinates with the Trees for Troops program to give away hundreds of free Christmas trees to military members prior to the Christmas holiday. Trees for Troops is a nonprofit organization that coordinates, collects and distributes Christmas tree donations for military bases across the nation. Trees for Troops has given out live Christmas trees for the last 20 years to show appreciation to military members and their families for their service.

The Christmas Spirit Foundation, the parent organization of Trees for Troops, stated, “Our dedicated military members can sometimes be separated from families at annual holidays while deployed, given the average deployment period of six to 12 months. ... Providing these deserving individuals, or their loved ones waiting at home, with the comfort of a Christmas tree is a small but powerful act during the holiday season.”

Trees for Troops collects Christmas tree donations from over 300 different farms, across 26 states. Typically, about 15,000 trees are donated each year and distributed by FedEx to 93 U.S. military bases (across each branch of the military). The pickup and delivery of these trees occurs within a 10-day period. Since 2005, a

By Ashley Abene

total of 309,644 live Christmas trees have been delivered and donated to military families.

Rick Dungey, executive director of Trees for Troops, mentioned, “Individuals who donate a tree can also write a personal message on a 4x6 tag. I feel that these personal messages add a special meaning for each military member and their families.”

Last year, 450 trees were donated from MacDill AFB to military families in the Tampa Bay area. The trees were delivered to the Air Force base and distributed by military members and volunteers. MacDill will host the Trees for Troops event on base on Friday, December 6, in conjunction with its MacWonderland Winter Festival. The MacWonderland Winter Festival includes winter festivities like Santa’s arrival, the Tinker Youth Choir and the Christmas tree lighting. The Winter Festival event, to also be held on base on December 6, will be at 5:30 p.m.

More information about MacDill’s Trees for Troops event can be found on its website at www.macdillfss.com, or visit its Facebook page at ‘MacDill Air Force Base.’ For more information or to donate to the organization that coordinates, collects and distributes the trees go to www.christmasspiritfoundation. org/trees-for-troops.

CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE TO DAZZLE AUDIENCES

WITH AMAZING NEW SHOW AT THE STRAZ CENTER THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

As the holiday season approaches, the Straz Center for the Performing Arts is set to enchant audiences with the delightful return of Cirque Dreams Holidaze, a captivating blend of acrobatics, music and seasonal cheer. This extraordinary production will take the stage on Thursday and Friday, December 2627, promising a festive experience perfect for families and holiday enthusiasts alike.

ing the world’s finest contemporary circus artists with dynamic choreography and whimsical storytelling, Cirque Dreams has captured the hearts and imaginations of both audiences and critics alike. The Cirque Dreams franchise is a VStar Entertainment Group company. For more information, visit www.cirquedreams.com.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze features a world-renowned cast of performers accompanied by an ensemble of aerial circus acts, sleight-of-hand jugglers, fun-loving skippers, breath-catching acrobatics and much more. Its original music score includes new twists on seasonal favorites, such as Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree and Carol of the Bells Singers, dancers, penguins, toy soldiers and reindeer invoke the dreams behind a child’s eye on the most magical of nights. Amidst a backdrop of new sets, scenery and storylines, this family-friendly production is sure to put a twinkle in your eye.

Cirque Dreams is a globally recognized entertainment brand that has produced a wide array of live stage performances for Broadway, casinos, theme parks, resorts, cruise lines, and theatrical venues worldwide. Since 1993, millions of people have experienced Cirque Dreams productions across the globe. Combin-

VStar Entertainment Group has nearly four decades of expertise in all aspects of event production, operations, and management. VStar delivers turnkey, inhouse solutions for theatrical shows, interactive exhibits and brand activations. Acquired in 2018 by global live entertainment leader Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, VStar has presented more than 40,000 live performances across 40 countries and entertains nearly 3 million guests annually. For more information, visit www.vstarentertainment.com.

Tickets for Cirque Dreams Holidaze are available now through the Straz Center’s box office or online at www.strazcenter. org. Prices range from $33.75-$134.75, with special group rates available, making it a perfect outing for schools, clubs and corporate gatherings.

For more information on tickets and showtimes, visit the Straz Center’s website or contact its ticket office at 813229-7827. Follow #CirqueDreamsHolidaze on social media.

Thursday, Dec 12th, 6-8pm Wreaths Across America Saturday, Dec 14th, 10am-12pm

In 2023, MacDill volunteers were able to hand out 450 Christmas trees to military members and their families.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze is coming to the Straz Center for the Performing Arts on Thursday and Friday, December 26-27.

TECO ASSESSES MILTON RESPONSE AND PREPARES FOR FUTURE STORMS

As the sounds of chainsaws and generators fade and roadside debris piles diminish, the task of evaluating the power restoration response to the major storms that recently impacted the Tampa Bay area is underway for Tampa Electric (TECO).

The utility provides electricity to more than 840,000 customers in the Tampa Bay region, and about 600,000 of them lost power during Hurricane Milton.

By Brad Stager

canopy in the Tampa Bay area contributed to power outages, as thousands of large oaks fell, taking poles and wires down with them.”

Jacobs also acknowledged TECO’s customers for their part in the power recovery process.

CENTURY 21 BEGGINS ENTERPRISES BRINGS HOLIDAY CHEER WITH ANNUAL TOYS FOR TOTS TOY DRIVE

By Libby Hopkins

More than 3 million electrical utility customers throughout Florida lost power because of damage from Hurricane Milton as it slammed into the state’s west coast near Sarasota. Milton was measured as a at landfall and was at Category 1 intensity as it traveled south of Brandon on a northeasterly path to the Atlantic Ocean.

Energy o cials said power outages resulting from the hurricane’s passage through West Central Florida were mostly from windblown trees and other debris damaging transmission lines and flooding that impacted neighborhood power infrastructure like transformers and substations.

“Hurricane Milton was the most powerful storm to hit this region in 100 years,” Cherie Jacobs, a TECO spokesperson, wrote in an email. “With the help of 6,000 utility workers, we worked tirelessly to address the severe damage. The dense tree

“We appreciate our customers’ patience as we restored everyone’s power.”

Utility workers were brought to Florida from across the country and even Canada to deal with the disruption and damage to the region’s power grid.

According to Jacobs, a post-storm review is part of the utility’s preparations for future disasters.

“We learn things from every storm. We are evaluating Hurricanes Helene and Milton to see what we can improve to better respond to future storms,” Jacobs said.

One way TECO is preparing for future storms is by partnering with Hillsborough Community College to develop a local electrical utility line workforce through a fourmonth training program. Students learn about electrical line operations and safety and can accrue a variety of industry certifications. Those who successfully complete the program can interview for jobs with TECO and be in a position to serve the local community the next time severe weather hits the area.

Toys for Tots began in 1947 as the brainchild of Marine Corps Reserve Maj. Bill Hendricks and his wife, Diane. She had a few handcrafted dolls and asked Hendricks to deliver them to an agency that supports children in need.

When he reported back to his wife that he could not find such an organization, she instructed him to “start one.” Hendricks and the Marines in his reserve unit in Los Angeles collected and distributed 5,000 toys in 1947.

CENTURY 21 Beggins Enterprises in Apollo Beach will host a Toys for Tots drive on Saturday, December 7, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Since then, Toy for Tots has been making an impact in families’ lives all over the United States, including the families in the Brandon community. Like Hendricks all those years ago, local realtor Ray Monahan and his team at CENTURY 21 Beggins Enterprises want to help those in need during the Christmas holidays.

“When you volunteer, people thank you for your time, but you have received the greatest reward, which is helping your community,” Monahan said.

CENTURY 21 Beggins Enterprises in Apollo Beach will host the annual Toys for Tots drive on Saturday, December 7, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. All are welcome to drop o donations, both toys and monetary, while

enjoying hamburgers and hot dogs for lunch. Pearson Capital has generously agreed to match 50 percent of all donations up to $5,000. Aside from food and drinks, the event will also have a variety of activities for the entire family, including a 360-photo booth, as well as an opportunity to see Santa Claus himself and the military alongside first responder volunteers. Both CENTURY 21 and Pearson Capital have witnessed the true significance of the drive and its impact on their community throughout the course of their many years of involvement with it.

“This is a fun event for the whole family with local vendors, the local fire department and the Hillsborough County Sheri ’s O ce,” Monahan said. “It’s also a wonderful to see the kids’ faces light up when they see Santa and have their picture taken with him.”

The event will be held at CENTURY 21 Beggins Enterprises, located at 6542 N. U.S. 41 in Apollo Beach. If you’d like to be a part of the event or donate to the event, you can contact CENTURY 21 Beggins Enterprises agent Molly Rizzi at 813-446-5445.

A TECO electrical line crew sets stormblown utility poles upright following Hurricane Milton’s passage through the Tampa Bay area in October.

FATHOM THEATRICAL CONCERT EVENT ‘A DRUMMER BOY CHRISTMAS’ IN THEATERS IN DECEMBER

Four-time Grammy Award-winning duo for KING + COUNTRY, in partnership with Fathom Events, have announced their beloved holiday tradition, ‘A Drummer Boy Christmas,’ will be in theaters nationwide for the first time ever from now through Monday, December 9. The highly anticipated holiday concert spectacle will be available for families around the country to see in theaters during this limited engagement. After a whirlwind year, the inspirational duo has also announced that they will take a pause from live performances in 2025 to spend some time with their families, to get back in the studio to create new music and to work on their next feature film project.

The concert film features Joel and Luke Smallbone, their talented band for KING + COUNTRY and is produced by Joshua Walsh.

For the first time ever, audiences will have an up close and personal look at the annual high-octane show that brother duo Joel and Luke Smallbone have become known for. Families will get to experience and celebrate the season together with the extraordinary production blending festive visuals and stunning lighting and staging effects.

“Christmas tours have become a sort of hallmark (not the channel) for us. Our only sadness has always been that the season is so short, and we can only be in one place at one time — until this Christmas!

Staff Report

Thanks to the excellent cinematic team from our feature film Unsung Hero and the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas, we have captured a live cinematic concert that will be in over 1,000 movie theaters this holiday season from December 5-9. This will be our final touring gift to our audience until we resume in 2026, after taking next year to head into the studio and back onto the film set. Let’s usher in the greatest holiday of the year together,” commented Joel and Luke.

“This very special concert film will be the perfect opportunity for families and communities to come together for the holidays,”

said Ray Nutt, CEO of Fathom Events.

“Fathom is all about providing special experiences in the communal environment of the local theater and this event is the perfect example of what we do. We’re very excited to kick off the holidays with for KING + COUNTRY.”

Tickets for A Drummer Boy Christmas are now available. Go to www.fathomevents.com/events/for-king-country-adrummer-boy-christmas-live/ for more information.

For more information about for KING + COUNTRY, please visit the website at www.forkingandcountry.com.

INAUGURAL PARADE OF LIGHTS WILL BRING THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER IN DECEMBER

The Parade of Lights will bring the Greater Brandon community together on Saturday, December 14, for its inaugural event.

The mile and a half long parade will kick off just as the sun sets, filling the street with Christmas lights and music from Newsome, Brandon, Riverview and Bloomingdale high schools’ bands.

of Lights will be held at 5:30 p.m. on December 14.

Committee Chairperson Kerrie Hoening said the parade, which is sponsored by Reed & Reed, will provide Brandon with a “big holiday event.”

The committee partnered with the Greater Brandon and the Valrico/Fishhawk chambers of commerce, which gave them access to resources, businesses and opportunities that helped make the parade possible.

“We are working really hard to make it a really fun event,” Hoening said.

Creating the Parade of Lights was not without its challenges, but the support from the county has made all the difference, Hoening said.

“We’re starting from ground zero,” she said.

By Lily Belcher

One of the challenges was selecting a route that will be the least disruptive, a decision that took several months to make.

The free parade will kick off at 5:30 p.m. at the Parson Avenue and Oakfield Drive intersection, heading west down Oakfield Drive.

“It’s right in the heart of Brandon,” Hoening said. There will also be grandstand seating sponsored by Rivard Buick GMC. People can purchase grandstand tickets for $50, which offers VIP seating, parking, food and a signature beverage. However, there are only 100 seats available, so Hoening encourages people to purchase their VIP tickets soon.

Proceeds from the event will go to two charities: Raining Cats and Dogs Shelter and Sanctuary and Angel Foundation FL. Hoening said she’s expecting a huge crowd and would be “utterly thrilled” if they have at least 10,000 people.

“I would say having something new and unique to bring our community is probably the thing I’m looking forward to the most,” Hoening said. “I’m looking forward to seeing the excitement of people who are going to show up and just have a really good time in this parade.”

For more information on the event or to buy grandstand tickets, visit https:// brandonparadeoflights.com/.

‘A Drummer Boy Christmas’ is the perfect celebratory end to a busy year.

Parade

•

TAMPA BAY RODEO BULL BASH & COUNTRY

MUSIC FESTIVAL COMING TO HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS IN JANUARY

Tampa Bay Rodeo announces the Bull Bash & Country Music Festival, taking place January 17 and 18, 2025, at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds.

Chart-topping singer-songwriter Chris Janson will perform on January 17, and platinum-selling artist Clay Walker will perform on January 18 during the extended 90-minute Bull Bash intermissions.

•

Staff Report

CT Heart Score Winter Special: $75**

Learn

The best bull riders in the region will compete for the title and cash prizes in this multiround competition. After the music festival at intermission, the Bull Bash will resume with the final rounds to crown the winner. Tickets are now on sale at https://tamparodeo. com/.

Known for finding the connection between country’s timeless themes and for the music-of-the-moment timeliness in his music, Walker’s storied career has been dotted with smash singles, platinum albums and countless honors and acclaim. Diagnosed in 1996 with multiple sclerosis, Walker is a passionate advocate and fundraiser for others with the disease through the Clay Walker Foundation’s Band Against MS Gala.

Chris Janson, a proud member of the Grand Ole Opry and a multiplatinum

songwriter and artist, is part of country music’s new breed. Rolling Stone proclaimed him “a live legacy in the making,” and Janson is a frequent presence at the nation’s biggest country festivals, tours and unexpected sit-ins.

Janson’s Big Machine Label Group debut single, “All I Need Is You,” recently hit the No. 1 spot on the country music charts, marking five career No. 1 hits.

The gates open at 5 p.m., the Bull Bash begins at 8 p.m. and the headliners take the stage from 9-10:15 p.m. each night. The event concludes at 11

p.m. Fans can arrive early to enjoy delicious food, cold beers and testing their skills on the mechanical bull before the Bull Bash begins. Local favorite Crossfire Creek Band will be performing both nights beginning at 5:45 p.m.

Advance tickets are $50 through January 1, 2025, and $60 starting January 2, 2025, throughout the event. All seats are general admission. General parking is free; premium parking is $30 per night. For more information and tickets, visit https://tamparodeo.com/.

Tampa Bay Rodeo’s Bull Bash & Country Music Festival will take place at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover.

A 15-MINUTE CT HEART SCORE COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE

If you are at risk for heart disease, a cardiac computed tomography (CT) Heart Score is a noninvasive imaging test to detect and measure the amount of calcium deposits in your coronary arteries.

Coronary arteries are blood vessels that supply the heart with blood. When calcium is present, the higher the score, the higher the risk of heart disease. Scores range from zero to 400.

• Being a smoker.

• Living an inactive or stressful lifestyle.

The noninvasive test takes approximately 15 minutes. There are no needles, dyes or liquids to swallow.

The ER at Sun City Center is offering a CT Heart Score Fall Special for $75*. About this special:

According to the American Heart Association, candidates for the procedure are:

• Men ages 55-80 or women 6080 with few risk factors who question whether they would benefit from statin therapy.

• People ages 40-55 with an estimated 10-year risk for developing heart disease between 5 percent and 7.5 percent, and risk factors that increase their chances of heart disease.

Risk factors include:

• Family history of heart disease.

• High blood pressure.

• High cholesterol.

• Overweight.

• Diabetes.

OVER 70 MILES OF DAZZLING LIGHTS

• Learn your heart disease risk.

• Appointments are available Monday through Friday. Call 941-745-7391, option 1, to schedule.

*Credit card/debit card/cash payment only.

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

Cowboys, cowgirls and country music are all a part of the Tampa Bay Rodeo Bull Bash & Country Music Festival.

TAMPA Y HONORS OUTSTANDING

VOLUNTEERS AT THE ANNUAL COMMUNITY IMPACT CELEBRATION

The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA honored outstanding volunteers at the annual Community Impact Celebration, presented by Regions and BayCare. Held on November 20 at the Tampa Theatre, an estimated 400 guests enjoyed an evening emceed by the Tampa Bay Lightning’s Greg Wolf and Braydon Coburn showcasing the Tampa YMCA’s robust impact on the community as videos, testimonials and stories were shared.

Clara Reynolds, Crisis Center of Tampa Bay president and CEO, was presented with the 2024 Community Impact Award. A distinguished executive leader with over 19 years of experience in managing Tampa Bay nonprofits, since July 2015 Clara has overseen a large team and plays a pivotal role in serving more than 160,000 people annually. Under her guidance, the Crisis Center has achieved exceptional growth, expanding its services, community impact and driving a remarkable 130 percent revenue increase.

“The work I do day in and day out is incredibly stressful. I look to the YMCA as my place for self-care, solace and community. I have been a proud Bob Sierra Family YMCA member for 22 years. I have made amazing friends there. Thank you, Tampa YMCA, for always supporting our community and thank you for this honor,” Reynolds said. Renowned community leader Bob Gilbertson was presented with the 2024 Red Triangle Award. The award is given to a volunteer

DO YOU HAVE THE HOLIDAY

By Lynn Barber, Florida-Friendly Landscaping Agent

whose leadership and service reflect the countless lives transformed through their generous contributions.

With his 45-year YMCA career, Gilbertson is the Tampa Y’s longest-serving president from 1981-2007. Under his leadership, the Tampa Y grew from serving 5,000 to serving over 130,000 members/program participants annually and from five centers to 14. The namesake of our Central City YMCA, he is a champion of advancing the Y mission, underserved communities and youth..”

“I am thankful to the Tampa YMCA for this honor. All of you helped us grow and sustain — the staff, supporters and volunteers. I hope everyone keeps supporting the Tampa YMCA,” Gilbertson said.

Matt Mitchell, president and CEO of Tampa YMCA, congratulated all the honorees. He emphasized the “magnitude of the role the Tampa YMCA plays in our communities. We impacted over 280,000 people last year.”

Locally, the following YMCA Center Volunteers of the Year were recognized for their unwavering commitment to helping children, families and seniors reach their full potential: Campo Family YMCA’s Eileen Kaminski; Plant City Family YMCA’s Marsha Passmore and Michael Jemison; and YMCA Camp Cristina’s Will Alfonso.

Visit www.tampaymca.org for more information on your local YMCAs. Staff Report

Most people enjoy holidays, but there are some that have the holiday hohums. If you are one of the ho-hums, consider involving yourself in at least one of the activities below that will benefit you and others. If you are not a ho-hum, you can still enjoy the activities below.

Purchase a holiday plant or dig up and repot one of your favorite plants in your landscape. You could include a card that details the plant care needed, such as sun or shade, water, soil and fertilizer.

You can also purchase a holiday plant — a Christmas cactus or small Christmas tree to decorate their table. Amaryllis adds a huge pop of color in groups of 10 or more. It performs best in partial shade and full sun. It should be planted between September and January, so get going! Gardenia has beautiful, fragrant white flowers and can reach a height of 4-8 feet. Paperwhite narcissus should be placed in a cool, dark room until shoot growth occurs. Rosemary topiary is a great-smelling gift for cooks and gardeners. It has light blue flowers in winter and spring. Norfolk Island pine is a pyramid-shaped evergreen tree that has dark-green needles and prefers full sun or bright indoor light. It can reach 80 feet when mature.

I was fortunate to have a friend that created homemade holiday ornaments every year for many years that adorn my small tabletop tree. I think of her fondly every time I walk by that tree.

Offer a service to your friends that need help or don’t have the inclination to complete. This could include giving them a ride to an appointment, pruning a shrub, sharing a favorite book, weeding a landscape bed, gifting bromeliads, decorating their holiday tree or other help they need. You could even teach your friends how to make their own ornaments out of pine cones, palm-leaf sheaths or fronds.

If you have an older or somehow impaired relative, friend or neighbor, set aside some time to spend with them. Not only will they appreciate your company, but you also get to enjoy theirs. Make cookies, decorate a tree, hang stockings or create a pine-frond centerpiece for your table.

Walking a trail or around the block is good exercise, and walking it with a friend or relative is a plus — beautiful scenery and the company of someone you enjoy. You can even identify plants on your walk. If you can’t identify them, you can take photographs and we, Extension, can identify them for you.

Join a community garden. There are 60plus community gardens across five counties in West Central Florida. If you are interested in more information about community gardens, go to https://coalitionofcommunitygardens.org/. You will make new friends and learn more about gardening, and being outside is almost always better than being inside … at least to me it is! Enjoy!

UF rosemary topiary.

UF Christmas cactus.

The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA honored outstanding volunteers at the annual Community Impact Celebration at the Tampa Theatre.

JINGLE BELL BAZAAR AT YBOR WELCOMES THE COMMUNITY TO A FESTIVE HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA

Mark your calendars!

The highly anticipated sixth annual Jingle Bell Bazaar at Ybor is returning to Centennial Park in Ybor City on Sunday, December 15, from 12 Noon6 p.m.

This enchanting celebration promises to bring the magic of the holiday season to the heart of our community.

The beloved holiday festival is free to attend and will feature live music, dance performances, delicious food and unique vendors and, of course, Santa’s Village, where kids can meet the jolly man himself.

Jingle Bell Bazaar at Ybor is the ultimate family-friendly celebration of the season in historic Ybor City.

“Our aim with the Jingle Bell Bazaar at Ybor is to create an unforgettable experience that brings our community together in the spirit of the season,” said Linda Archie, Jingle Bell Bazaar at Ybor event coordinator. “We’re excited to provide a day filled with festive entertainment and unique shopping opportunities that highlight the essence of the holidays.”

The festive music lineup includes three live bands who o er a diverse mix of sound. Jah Movement — reggaeton rhythms: High-energy beats to keep the holiday spirit alive. Ambito — Latino grooves: Dance along to favorites like

Sta Report

salsa, bachata, and merengue. Geri Blount — classic country: Relax with the warm and familiar sounds of classic country.

Adding to the excitement are captivating live dance performances to bring joy and holiday cheer to the park.

Bring the kids to Santa’s Village for free photos with Santa, arts and crafts and a video gaming truck to entertain the young attendees throughout the day.

Experience the best holiday shopping ever. With over 100 unique holiday vendors, you’ll find everything from handcrafted gifts and seasonal decor to unique clothing and accessories. Support local artisans and discover the perfect gifts for everyone on your list.

Of course, a festival is only complete with delicious treats. A variety of food trucks will serve delights, including Latin food, seafood, barbecue, Mexican cuisine and other local favorites.

Bring the family for a day filled with music, shopping, family activities and holiday cheer. Free seating in the park is available, and admission is completely free. Everyone is welcome. For more information, visit www.jinglebellbazaar.com or contact Linda at 888991-2502.

FESTIVE FUN AWAITS THOSE WHO ATTEND THE ANNUAL AT HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS HOME TOUR

The Arts Council of Plant City will present its 37th annual At Home for the Holidays Home Tour on Sunday, December 8, from 1-4:30 p.m. This year’s Home Tour will feature three festively decorated homes located in Plant City, Walden Lake East and Walden Pointe. In addition, a featured business will be represented.

Tickets to the At Home for the Holidays Home Tour are $30 per person. Space is limited. No children under 12 years old will be admitted.

e Arts Council of Plant City will present its annual At Home for the Holidays Home Tour on Sunday, December 8, from 1-4:30 p.m.

This year’s featured business is the Plant City History and Photo Archives, located at 106 S. Evers St. in historic downtown Plant City. Attendees will be treated to refreshments and can tour the homes on their own from 1-4:30 p.m.

I have attended the Holiday Home Tour several times. It is a delightful afternoon and something that I cannot recommend high enough.

The mission of the Arts Council of Plant City is to bring arts to the Plant City community, to promote education in the arts and to develop artists and arts programs.

The annual At Home for the Holidays Home Tour is a major fundraiser for

By Kathy L. Collins

the Arts Council of Plant City. The funds generated by the event allow the Arts Council of Plant City to provide scholarships to graduating high school seniors who are interested in furthering their education in the arts. Students from Durant High School, Plant City High School and Strawberry Crest High School are eligible for the scholarships. Students can obtain applications for the scholarships from their school’s guidance counselor.

In addition, the funds allow the Arts Council of Plant City to bring the Seward Johnson sculptures to the downtown area and provide numerous donations to art-related functions including fi eld trips for underprivileged children and the Refl ections Project at Plant City High School.

For more information on the annual At Home for the Holidays Home Tour and to be invited, please contact Maggie Carlisle at 813-763-1686, Carol Walker at 813-851-5166 or Marsha Passmore at 813-245-2244.

For more information on the Plant City Arts Council, please visit the website at www.plantcityarts.com.

e sixth annual Jingle Bell Bazaar at Ybor is returning to Centennial Park in Ybor City on Sunday, December 15.

MARLIN JAMES AND LENNOX FOUNDATION BRING COMFORT TO COMMUNITY HEROES

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PRESENTS YEA! STUDENT AWARDS

By Kathy L. Collins

The Feel the Love Campaign, initiated by the Lennox Foundation in 2009, provides free heating and cooling equipment to deserving individuals and families. With over $12 million in donated equipment and more than 2,300 installations completed, the campaign is dedicated to supporting community heroes and making a lasting impact.

This year, a local air conditioning and heating company, Marlin James, has joined forces with the campaign, offering its services to bring comfort to five remarkable individuals and families in need. The Marlin James team has been hard at work, installing the first four for the deserving community members.

Back to where it all began — Gladys Hayes reunited with Marlin James after 25 years for a special HVAC upgrade, celebrating a lasting bond of trust and care.

Belvia Simpson was the first recipient, and her installation brought plenty of laughter as she shared stories with the crew. Known for her kind spirit, Simpson was thrilled to receive the new HVAC system.

Next up was Mark Crabbe, a family man known for putting others first. His son-inlaw, David, nominated him, sharing that Crabbe’s selflessness has left a lasting impact on his family and friends. The installation felt particularly meaningful to the

team, knowing it celebrated Crabbe’s dedication to his loved ones.

The Young family was another grateful recipient. Both Ryan Young, a teacher at Strawberry Crest High School, and Cyndi Young, a homeschool teacher, have dedicated themselves to serving their community. As active Christians, they inspire those around them, and Marlin James was honored to help them when a large expense like HVAC replacement would have been a burden.

Lastly, the fourth installation was a memorable return to Gladys Hayes, a longtime customer whose original system had been installed by Marlin James owner Scott Clark over 25 years ago. Her wit and warmth reminded the team of their deep-rooted relationship with their customers, and they were delighted to bring her the comfort of a new Lennox system.

Through the Feel the Love Campaign, the Lennox Foundation and Marlin James have made an inspiring difference in the lives of our community members who give so much to others. Each installation is more than just a new system; it’s a reminder of the strength and support within the community.

On October 23, the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners presented the 2024 Youth Excellence and Achievement Awards, also known as the YEA! Awards. The awards ceremony recognized six outstanding young people.

The YEA! Awards recognize three middle school students and three high school students. The recipients are selected by the Hillsborough County Commission on the Status of Women.

The YEA! Awards have several categories. These included Leadership, Volunteer or Community Service and Success Despite Difficult Odds.

In the Leadership category, eligible students must demonstrate 21st-century skills, including critical thinking, communication, collaboration and creativity in how they lead others academically, in extracurricular programs and in service to the community.

This year’s winners in the Leadership category are Grayson Zurlage from Randall Middle School and Shreyashi Bodaka from Strawberry Crest High School. Zurlage, while in the eighth grade, was involved in two Operation: Veteran Connect charity campaigns. The first was Warm for the Winter and the second was Warm My Walls. Zurlage thanked his mom and dad for motivating him to volunteer.

Zurlage said, “Hearing tips from veterans is humbling and inspiring because they

have given so much.” Zurlage added, “I think the real recognition should go to the people who give more than volunteering.”

In the Volunteer or Community Service category, students who dedicate substantial time in service to the community are recognized. This year’s winners are Adam Saunders from Mulrennan Middle School and Lauren Kimball from Plant High School.

In the Success Despite Difficult Odds category, eligible students must show the ability to persevere through challenges to make a positive impact on others. This year’s winners are Judah Regans from Mulrennan Middle School and Jordyn Gourley from Newsome High School.

Gourley is a senior. When she was 3 years old, she was diagnosed with stagefour rhabdomyosarcoma, an aggressive type of soft tissue cancer. Gourley is legally blind in her left eye and deaf in her left ear. Gourley Is a member of the National Honor Society, tutors pediatric cancer patients, volunteers and is a national spokesperson for Compass to Care Childhood Cancer Foundation.

Gourley said, “It is an honor to stand here and receive this award. If you look closely, you can always find a silver lining even in the darkest days.” Gourley added, “Volunteering, advocating and paying it forward are essential parts of who I am today.”

For information, visit https://hcfl.gov/.

Belvia Simpson’s kindness shined as she welcomed the Marlin James team, sharing stories and laughter during her new HVAC installation.

On October 23, the Board of County Commissioners presented the 2024 Youth Excellence and Achievement Awards.

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AND SANTA’S VILLAGE RETURNS WITH

Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights and Santa’s Village returns to the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds with fresh entertainment, adult beverages and a twomile drive-thru experience expanded to include the new ‘Santa’s Winter Woodlands,’ where frolicking forest creatures add a magical touch.

NEW WINTER WOODLANDS

Returning favorites include the beloved ‘Under the Sea’ display, where blue lights and whimsical aquatic creatures sparkle, and the Pirates of Tampa, who stand guard at the animated tunnel. Featuring more than 1 million lights, the area’s Hometown Holiday Festival promises five weeks of seasonal fun from Thanksgiving Day through Sunday, December 29.

Guests can bring their well-behaved dogs and cats on a leash on Paws & Claus Night at the Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights and Santa’s Village.

New this year in Santa’s Village, Keel & Curley Winery o ers a selection of wine and ciders to accompany the tasty treats served throughout. Live entertainment on the weekends brings you newcomers EVE and the Riverview High School Victorian Carolers, who are joining the festive lineup of returning musical favorites Dennis Lee, Aimee Carter and Jordan Denise Williams.

The Strong and Amazing Stunt Show and Dance 4 Donations will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Indulge in seasonal snacks and explore the holiday

Sta Report

market and the Hometown Hillsborough Historical Village, where firepits await for making yummy s’mores. Families will enjoy visits with Santa, Santa’s workshop craft stations and children’s games. Santa’s Barnyard, camel rides, seasonal movies and holiday-themed rides promise endless fun for the entire family.

A special night return to Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights and Santa’s Village. On Paws & Claus Night, set for Thursday, December 12, guests can bring their well-behaved dogs and cats on leashes to join in the festive fun. For a $10 donation to the Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center, guests can receive a complimentary printed photo of their furry friends with Santa.

Tickets and season passes are on sale now. Tickets are $25 per car on drivethrough-only nights, and $30 per car on nights when Santa’s Village is open. The season pass is available for $75 per person. Bus and group rates are also available.

Visit www.hillsboroughcountyfair.com/ events/2024/2024-tampa-bay-festivalof-lights--santas-village for more information.

The festival will be at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover.

BUSCH GARDENS CHRISTMAS TOWN BRINGS PROMISES NEW AND RETURNING FAVORITES

The holidays shine brighter than ever at Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town™, filling the season with festive fun and holiday cheer. Running daily from through January 5, 2025, the park will transform into a dazzling winter wonderland, featuring millions of twinkling lights, captivating shows, seasonal treats, holiday animal encounters and joyful rides for the entire family to enjoy. Christmas Town festivities are free with park admission.

Experience over 70 miles of dazzling lights across the park, festive treats, holiday animal encounters and jolly rides and shows for the whole family.

New this year, the iconic SkyRide will sparkle with festive lights, providing guests with breathtaking nighttime views of Busch Gardens dressed in its best holiday decor. Guests can also enjoy rides on fan-favorite attractions and coasters, including the allnew Phoenix Rising, making its Christmas Town debut.

Beloved holiday experiences like Santa’s North Pole Experience, the Holly Jolly Express and dazzling shows such as Christmas on Ice will fill the air with festive magic for all ages.

Seasonal treats ranging from holiday-flavored hot chocolates to freshly baked cookies exclusive to Christmas Town will add extra sweetness to the celebration. This year, guests can delight in all-new holiday-inspired menu items, explore the gingerbread cookie decorating station to create their own edible masterpieces and sip on a selection of new Christmas Town craft cocktails available throughout the park.

With unique holiday shopping, special

photo opportunities and endless ways to create lasting memories, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town is the perfect holiday tradition for family and friends.

“Christmas Town brings the magic of the holiday season to life right here in Tampa Bay,” said Kristine Morgan, vice president of entertainment at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. “Christmas Town allows families to create lasting memories together within an immersive realm of beautiful lights, festive entertainment and the spirit of Christmas.”

Visitors of all ages can enjoy fan-favorite entertainment celebrating the holiday season. Returning entertainment includes Christmas on Ice at the Moroccan Palace Theater, Mrs. Claus’ Storytime, Busch Gardens Holiday Magic at the Stanleyville Theater, Three Kings Journey, Holly Jolly Express and Elmo’s Christmas Wish. Don’t miss the Christmas Town character appearances throughout the park and Holiday in the Sky: A Nighttime Spectacular, a breathtaking display of festive fireworks.

Guests can also enjoy Santa’s North Pole Experience, where they can meet Santa, explore his workshop and share their holiday wishes. Plus, guests can visit Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland, featuring festive decorations, interactive displays and more.

To learn more about Christmas Town and all the festive experiences Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has to o er, guests can visit www.christmastown.com.

ZOOTAMPA SHINES BRIGHT WITH THE RETURN OF CHRISTMAS IN THE WILD

Celebrate the holidays and experience

ZooTampa at Lowry Park in a whole new light at Tampa’s favorite family tradition, Christmas in the Wild. This oneof-a-kind experience began on November 29 and continues twinkling for 16 select nights through Monday, December 23.

This year’s event promises to be the biggest and brightest Christmas in the Wild yet, o ering an unforgettable endless holiday experience for families and friends alike with more dazzling larger-than-life

be placed throughout the Zoo for beautiful photo opportunities for guests of all ages. New additions include a manatee and her calf, a flamingo family, penguins and much more.

Some of the returning favorites include Rockin’ Wreath, Snowasis, Gingerbread Jubilee, Ice Cavern, Ticky Tacky Christmas, North Pole Lane and so much more.

• The Realm of the Nutcracker: The holiday classic story comes to life during a modern dance party featuring Clara, the Nutcracker, the Rat King and the Sugar Plum Fairies.

• Mrs. Claus Storytime: Create unforgettable memories as Mrs. Claus reads Christmas stories and sings Christmas carols.

On all event nights, guests will be able to make their evening even more magical by upgrading their experience with a Holiday African Penguin Encounter or a Holiday Indian Rhino Encounter, featuring the opportunity to get up close to amazing

Jeremy Persinger, a resident of FishHawk, has been a beacon of exceptional customer service since opening Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers. His journey began in 2018 with the launch of his fi rst location in Bradenton, followed by the thriving success of his second location in Riverview, which opened in 2020.

The Christmas in the Wild event nights are Thursday through Sunday, December 12-15, and Tuesday through Monday, December 17-23. Christmas in the Wild is free for members and Pay for a Day ticket holders. General admission tickets after 4 p.m. are $29.95 and can be purchased online at https://zootampa.org/.

Now Enrolling Now Enrolling

Now Enrolling

• The Forest of Fantasy: Four dazzling light shows transform the zoo with twinkling lights and festive music. Shows are every 15 minutes and feature snow and special appearances by the Snow Queen and her dancing snow fairies.

• Larger-than-life illuminated animal sculptures: A wildlife journey in lights will

Guests looking for a unique way to give back this holiday season can stop by the animal Giving Tree. Funds raised will support animal enrichment that provides physically and mentally stimulating toys, activities and environments, which helps enhance their well-being. Additionally, the Giving Tree helps support ongoing veterinary care and daily nutrition needs for all of ZooTampa’s animals, including sick, injured and orphaned manatees. Visit https://zootampa.org/. Sta Report

Owning and operating the business from the very start, Persinger highlighted that his favorite aspect of running Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers is the daily interactions with diverse customers.

“We are a true onestop shop that encompasses convenience, quality, speed and competitive pricing for all vehicle tires, maintenance and repairs,” said Persinger. “We do everything to service and repair a vehicle, including engines and transmissions — just no body work or windshields.”

In celebration of December, the business is o ering a 25 percent discount on every oil change for life with an approved Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers Car Care Credit Card, making vehicle maintenance more a ordable for its

By Kelly Wise Valdes

loyal customers.

Beyond his business success, Persinger has been a dedicated executive board member of the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation since 2008. His commitment to community service is evident in his ongoing support for pediatric cancer research and treatment.

Persinger’s dedication to excellence in customer service and community involvement continues to drive the success of Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers, solidifying his reputation as a leader in the automotive service industry.

Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers operates six days a week, from 8 a.m.-6 p.m., closing at 5 p.m. on Saturdays, and remaining closed on Sundays. Customers can take advantage of various online coupons available at www.expressoil. com or follow the company’s active Facebook page for promotions, including the weekly selection of a free oil change recipient. The store is conveniently located at 11690 Boyette Rd. in Riverview, next to Culver’s, and can be reached by phone at 813-499-9606.

Jeremy Persinger is the owner and operator of Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers, located at 11690 Boyette Rd. in Riverview.

FASTFRAME OFFERS WAYS TO SHAPE YOUR PERSONAL SPACES

One of the easiest ways to transform a home or business space into an environment people enjoy being in is by displaying art and memorabilia in a way that captures peoples’ attention. With the Christmas and yearend holiday gift season underway, opportunities to share an appreciation of visual beauty that can enhance a personal environment are plentiful. With the right frame, family portraits and works of art can become valuable keepsakes or treasures to pass down to future generations of family members or business associates.

For frame maker Benjamin NeSmith of FastFrame Riverview, enhancing significant items for others is the goal he pursues in working with customers and the personal items they bring to him.

“It does really feel like an honor to take care of peoples’ artwork,” said NeSmith.

That process begins with a consultation to shape an overall vision of how to creatively, and narratively, frame a variety of imagery, going beyond paintings and photographs, ranging from textiles like babywear mementos to big-screen monitors.

Shadow boxes artfully containing objects that collectively tell a story are also popular, particularly among veterans and first responders.

By Brad Stager

“I especially like working on these,” said NeSmith.

According to NeSmith, restoring or repairing paintings and other artworks cannot be done at FastFrame Riverview, but if a frame or shadow box needs fixing, he’s happy to take a look and consider applying his skills and the framing tools in the store’s well-equipped workshop toward refurbishment.

NeSmith operates the FastFrame Riverview location with his wife, Erin, who also teaches English at Bloomingdale High School. They also operate the Grow Into You Foundation, which supports young people, especially those who have been part of the foster care system. They met at their alma mater, Brandon High School.

FastFrame assures satisfaction with a 30-day guarantee on aesthetic fulfillment and a lifetime guarantee on the durability of a frame. As a company, FastFrame was founded in 1986 and has grown from its Thousand Oaks, California, origin to retail locations throughout the United States, as well as in Brazil and the Bahamas.

FastFrame Riverview is located at 6128 Winthrop Town Centre Ave., just northeast of Publix in the Winthrop Town Centre shopping district. You can learn more by visiting https://fastframe.com/ riverview or calling 813-436-0044.

TAMPA COMPLETE KETAMINE SOLUTIONS OFFERS SOLUTIONS FOR CHRONIC HEALTH ISSUES

Tampa Complete Ketamine Solutions is an evidence-based center of excellence, rooted in the recent scientific findings that low-dose ketamine infusions are e ective in treating treatment-resistant depression (TRD).

“Through our work with TRD patients, we will use data we obtain to measure results, to further research and to improve patient outcomes,” said owner Jennifer Greene. “Tampa Complete Ketamine was started in 2021 being one of the first ketamine clinics in Tampa. Complete Ketamine originally started in Nashville by Clint Fletcher. Today, there are eight Complete Ketamine clinics across the U.S.”

By Libby Hopkins

week that send us gifts, telling us, ‘Thank you so much, you saved my life, had you not gotten me in last week I would not be here today,’” Greene said. “That speaks for itself.”

If you ask Greene what makes Tampa Complete Ketamine special, she will tell you it’s all about the care its clients get.

“I feel that we are different because we care,” Greene said.

“We are a team of all females at the Tampa clinic, making our patients feel comfortable with us.

We have received patients from other clinics that for whatever reason did not get the results they were looking for to find great results with us.”

After learning about the success her business partner, Fletcher, had in helping people with mental health issues in Nashville, Greene became intrigued to learn more.

“I lost my husband of 19 years to suicide from later-in-life, sudden-onset mental illness,” Greene said. “We started Complete Ketamine Tampa after my loss. I was not able to save my family but help same families every day at Complete Ketamine Tampa.”

Ketamine was once mostly used as an anesthetic, but it’s now known to help in IV infusion therapy to be very e ective in treating PTSD, anxiety, depression and chronic pain.

“We have had several patients in one

Greene and her team at Tampa Complete Ketamine Solutions hope that their treatments will soon be covered by insurance plans.

“Insurances currently do not cover ketamine treatments because of the o -label use for mental health,” Greene said. “I would love to see it covered by insurance so we can help more people as the awareness is spread.”

If you would like to learn more about Tampa Complete Ketamine Solutions or if you would like to set up an appointment for treatment, visit its website at https://completeketaminetampa.com/ or call 813-6323223. Its o ce is located at 13801 Bruce B. Downs

Benjamin NeSmith begins framing a painting for a customer of FastFrame Riverview framing service in the Winthrop Town Centre shopping mall.

Blvd. in Tampa.

Jennifer Greene is a co-owner of Tampa Complete Ketamine Solutions.

My then-3year-old grandson ripped open the Christmas gift from his little friend. The other boy and his mama stood by in smiling anticipation of Blaine’s response.

Grace Notes Christmas Blessings

By Debora Coty

Blaine’s bottom lip slipped into pouty-protrusion mode. “This isn’t what I wanted,” he said, handing the unappreciated gift back to its giver.

Gratitude. Throughout this Christmas season, we’re supposed to be grateful for our blessings, especially the amazing gift of God’s Son in the form of a babe in a manger. And we are. For maybe 10 minutes every day. But what about the other 1,430 minutes?

Oh, c’mon — don’t deny that you inwardly cringe when you open those hideous socks. Or that you fi ght an impulse to fl ee out back and hide behind the philodendrons when your motherin-law arrives. Or that you resent hosting Christmas dinner yet again because

lazy cousin Bertha won’t take a turn.

Yep, we all feel a bit like 3-year-olds at times. Unappreciative for our blessings.

But what if we wake up tomorrow with only the things we thanked God for today? Things would look a little di erently, wouldn’t they?

Warm socks would become a treasure on cold nights, a comfort many people lack. The mother of your spouse produced that person you loved enough to marry. If she wasn’t here, your spouse wouldn’t be either. And all that food threatening to collapse your table is a privilege not enjoyed by more than half the world.

It’s all in the way we look at it, isn’t it?

Like a selfi sh 3-year-old. Or like the humble recipient of good and perfect gifts from our heavenly Father.

Wishing you and yours a blessed and gratitude-fi lled celebration of the birth of our Savior!

Debora M. Coty is an inspirational speaker and award-winning author of over 40 books, including the bestselling Too Blessed to be Stressed series. Visit with Debora anytime at www.DeboraCoty.com.

HOW WE RESPOND TO THE ELECTION SPEAKS VOLUMES

“So live in Christ Jesus the Lord in the same way as you received him. Be rooted and built up in him, be established in faith, and overflow with thanksgiving just as you were taught,” (Colossians 2:6).

Back when the Tampa Tribune still existed, I was invited to write in response to pivotal moments in national life. Moments like this. Fact is, if you are happy with the election results or devastated, regardless, my thoughts are essentially the same.

Today, I would have led with one of my wife Rebekah’s oft-employed aphorisms: “It’s not what happens to you, it’s how you respond.” In other words, life happens; the most important thing is what happens next. Or, what do we choose to hold in our heart … to purpose … to do? How then shall we live?

America has clearly spoken and made a choice in terms of leadership, at least for the short term, going forward. But this is still America, and one of the values we hold sacred is our autonomy as individuals and the belief that each one of us has been “endowed by [our] Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

And these are not just rights but also responsibilities.

So, my question is this: How do we intend to live? How do we intend to pursue happiness? How do we intend to love? How do we intend to continue our fundamental commitment to live like we mean

it? Because God certainly meant something special when we — each one of us — were imagined, designed, created and gifted into this world. For such a time as this.

And I o er this question to Mr. Trump too. For all the talk of faith and of freedom, do you intend to enter this privileged o ce as a person of grace as well as purpose? You can. You can choose to be a champion of — as Lincoln put it — “the better angels of our nature.”

So here we are. And, in the same way that every new day begins, this is morning in America. How then will we respond? The Scriptures are clear: “So live in Christ Jesus the Lord in the same way as you received him. Be rooted and built up in him, be established in faith, and overflow with thanksgiving just as you were taught.”

Words to live by. I invite all of us to respond in grace, to continue to be light and love in this world and to so live in Christ … rooted and built up in him … overflowing with thanksgiving. — DEREK

Derek Maul has written for many news outlets, including the Tampa Tribune, e United Methodist News Service, All Pro Dad, FOCUS Magazine, Newsweek, USA Today, e Christian Science Monitor, Presbyterians Today, Guideposts, Chicken Soup for the Soul and many other publications. Read Derek Maul’s daily blog posts at www.derekmaul.wordpress.com.

Don’t Let An INJURY SLOW YOU DOWN

Imaging can uncover the pain that is keeping you from doing the things you enjoy.

ER at Sun City Center, an extension of Manatee Memorial Hospital, is a full-service emergency department that provides care to those in need 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

We are located at 16504 S. U.S. 301 in Wimauma, adjacent to Walmart®.

ER at Sun City Center features:

• Full-service laboratory and imaging services (X-ray, CT and ultrasound) (A physician order is required.)

• Care for all ages

• Shorter wait times*

• Access to on-site physician 24/7

• Ten treatment areas, including seven exam rooms and three rapid medical exam spaces

• 10,884 square feet

CT Heart Score Winter Special: $75**

Learn your heart disease risk, appointments available Monday-Friday Call 941-745-7391, option 1

THE REGENT WILL BE AN OUTPOST FOR THE NORTH POLE AND LETTERS TO SANTA THIS YEAR

A timeless Christmas tradition of writing letters to Santa is being maintained by The Regent, located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. Children can deposit letters in the large mailbox located at the front door of The Regent.

Shannon Keil, CEO of The Regent, said, “We are so excited that the North Pole has chosen The Regent as a special drop-o location for our community’s children’s letters to Santa again this year.”

Keil added, “This year we are adding a 7-and-a-half-foot-tall animated Mickey Mouse out front for kids to hear The Night Before Christmas.”

Mickey will be located next to the mailbox along with Santa, who will be peeking through the window.

Keil said, “Children can physically drop their letters in the box. We will also have teachers in the area that bring letters from local schools.”

The mailbox will be available from Thanksgiving until Friday, December 20. If a child writes a letter and provides a return address, they will receive a letter back from Santa along with a treat. The letters are written by the Letter Elves, which include The Regent sta , fami-

By Kathy L. Collins

ly and community partners. The treat is provided by Lake Brandon Chickfil-A.

Keil said, “This was something that started out of COVID, and it continues to be a fun activity here locally for kids. It is a safe, well-thoughtthrough activity. I like that it brings a little bit of the Christmas magic back to kids. This is an activity for all kids, and something parents can do as a family. We have had families come in their pajamas and take pictures for an hour. We have lots of holiday photo-op spots starting the first week of December.”

The Regent has been serving the community for over 13 years.

Keil said, “We hope that the community sees us as a partner and resource, especially after the storms that have devastated so many. We look for opportunities to support community organizations and function as a meeting place for the people in our community to gather. Sixty-two percent of our business is nonprofit and community events, and we are proud of that. We love this community and always look forward to bringing smiles and experiences to those in it.”

For more information, please visit www.experiencetheregent.com.

TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER OPENS HOLIDAY TRADITIONS EXHIBIT

The Tampa Bay History Center’s mission is to discover, preserve and learn from our region’s past to inform our common future. The Tampa Bay History Center tells the story of Tampa Bay and Florida’s history, heritage and culture.

For the upcoming holiday season, the Tampa Bay History Center will host Holiday Traditions in Florida now through February 2, 2025.

The History Center is one of Tampa Bay’s premier cultural venues and is an anchor of the Tampa Riverwalk on Water Street. Guests of the center get to explore a world where stories unfold around every corner.

The center’s three levels of exhibition galleries invite its guests on a journey through time. Engage with history talks that transform learning into a quest for knowledge or join the center for public events that go beyond entertainment, fostering a connection to our collective history and future.

For the upcoming holiday season, the Tampa Bay History Center will host its Holiday Traditions in Florida exhibit from now through February 2, 2025.

“The Tampa Bay area o ers unique experiences year-round, and the holiday season is no di erent,” said Billy Somerville with the Tampa Bay History Center. “We’re excited to share memorable local traditions and how they’ve been celebrated over the years in Tampa. One of the most notable stories is the 1958 Tampa Snow Show, which is featured in this tem-

By Libby Hopkins

porary exhibition presented by the Museum of Florida History.”

Although Floridians may celebrate di erent holidays or have di erent customs, holidays help to unite family, friends and neighbors and to strengthen our common bonds. Using photographs from the past and present, Holiday Traditions in Florida examines how Floridians have celebrated these special days.

“More than 100 photographs and documents chronicle the story behind the Franklin Street disaster in the Snow Show section of the Wayne Thomas Gallery, alongside 65 displays highlighting Florida’s holiday celebrations,” Sommerville said. “We hope this seasonal exhibit highlights what makes Florida unique and serves as a cautionary tale about Tampa’s Snow Show, which faced more mishaps than anyone could have anticipated.”

Mapping the American Seas is another exhibit currently showing at the Tampa Bay History Center. This exhibit seeks to reset that narrative and place the gulf states, particularly Florida, along with Mexico and Cuba, in their proper context as crucial players in the history and development of North America.

Holiday Traditions in Florida, featuring the Tampa Snow Show, and Mapping the American Seas are on exhibit now at the Tampa Bay History Center, located at 801 Water St. in Tampa. General admission tickets are available at https://tampabayhistorycenter.org/.

Local 16-year-old John Humphreys is hardworking to achieve and passionate about helping. Since as early as 8 years old, during which he wrote Be Amazing: A Guide to Becoming the Best Version of Yourself, Humphreys has himself been striving to be amazing.

He has built up numerous certifications, leadership positions, ranks and achievements with the Boy Scouts of America (BSA), Sea Scouts, Venturing Scouts, SCUBAnauts and many other organizations. As of now, the list includes:

• American Academy of Underwater Sciences, scientific diver.

• Reef Environmental Education Foundation, Level 2 fish surveyor.

• National Association of Underwater Instructors: Coral restoration diver, master scuba diver, rescue scuba diver, advanced open water diver, drysuit diver, nitrox diver and open water scuba diver.

• Technical Diving International: Intro to Caves diver, cavern diver and advanced nitrox diver.

• SCUBAnauts International, 1st Class Naut/Masternaut candidate.

• BSA, Eagle Scout.

• BSA, Troop 109 junior assistant Scoutmaster.

• Sea Scouts, Able rank/Quartermaster candidate.

• Venturing Scouts, Venturing rank.

• Venturing Scouts, Crew 099 president.

• Order of the Arrow, Brotherhood member.

• Order of the Arrow, Uh-To-Yeh-Hut-Tee Lodge Brotherhood chair.

• Civil Air Patrol, Amelia Earhart Award (cadet captain).

• Civil Air Patrol, Clearwater Composite Squadron Bravo Flight commander.

• Civil Air Patrol, Clearwater Composite squadron character development officer in charge.

• United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps, chief petty officer.

• U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Basic Qualified member.

• 4-H, Florida legislative representative 2022 and 2023.

• The President’s Volunteer Service Award, Gold Level, 2022 and 2023.

• The Congressional Award, Gold Medal, 2023.

• Infinity Aero Club of Tampa, Outstanding Cadet 2023.

• Completed his first solo flight in a motor-glider (Pipistrel Virus SW) at age 14 and completed his first solo flight in a fixed-wing aircraft (DirectFly Alto LSA) at age 16.

• Part 107 Commercial Drone License. Humphreys stated, “I think my first big accomplishment that I’m really proud of was, in 2021, I went to space camp

— I was attending a space academy program — and I earned the Right Stuff Award, and that meant a lot to me.”

However, he said the expedition in Antarctica is his favorite accomplishment.

He was there at its peninsula for nearly three weeks, from February through March, with the goal of exploring the unique ecosystems that thrive in the extreme environment to study the biodiversity and resilience of life in Antarctica. His jobs included collecting and analyzing data for lifeforms like phytoplankton, along with loads more projects, like a Masternaut project where he did iceberg surveying.

With the main job of being a citizen science diver conducting benthic surveys, he dove into the icy depths of its waters — as cold as 15-29 degrees Fahrenheit. The cold

By Taylor Wells

But beyond simply achieving, his heart lies also in helping others. After Hurricane Helene struck, he was quick to answer the need for clearing away debris, including cutting up and moving fallen trees. And after Hurricane Milton, he was once again quick to lend a hand. Of course, he does community service outside of hurricane cleanups — so much so that he’s committed over 1,500 hours since starting high school.

As for what he wants to do down the line, Humphreys dreams of joining the space industry as a mission commander, specializing in Mars exploration and colonization, with hopes of one day setting foot on the red giant, upon which no person has yet stepped.

“I’m working really hard to gain the necessary knowledge and experience to be a good-fit candidate for the Astronaut program,” he said.

According to Humphreys, there are two main requirements: “You have to have 1,000 hours of piloting command of a jet aircraft, and you have to have at minimum a master’s degree in a STEM field or have graduated from an approved test pilot school. … There are other ones too, but those are the ones I’m working toward.”

These are big dreams, but his dedication and diligence are more than enough for the

John Humphreys (right) at his U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps chief pinning ceremony with Zane Lance, regional director the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps, Region 6-1.

John Humphreys in Antarctica.

John Humphreys at Palmer Station, United States research station in Antarctica.

By Lily Belcher

Sta Report

For enjoyers of railroad history, trains, and goodtime outings, the Florida Railroad Museum has a great assortment of train-ride events ready for the fall and winter seasons.

Train Robbery Experience — Sunday, January 4-5, 2025

Additional food and beverages will be available for purchase at the North Pole.

Hobo Campfire Cookout — January 10-11 and 17-18, 2025

Rumors say a valuable shipment will be on board your train. Passengers are assured the situation will be fully secure in the hands of the United States Marshal Service. Surely the Hole-in-the-Head Gang will not attempt to stop a train under U.S. marshal protection. … Will they? Can the Hole-in-the-Head Gang outsmart the marshals?

Join in on the Train Robbery Experience for a fun train ride that will let you experience an Old West-style train robbery.

North Pole Express — Wednesdays through Sundays, from now to Sunday, December 22

The North Pole Express is a 35-minute ride from Parrish to the North Pole. Upon arrival, everyone will detrain at the Florida Railroad Museum’s special North Pole station, where Santa awaits to visit with every child. During your stay, you’ll enjoy a variety of entertainment, activities and campfires and all the hot chocolate and cookies you care to have.

The Hobo Campfire Cookout is a fun, two-and-a-half-hour evening trip to a hobo camp. Sit around campfires for some good old hobo stories, and you’ll be provided with all the hot dogs and marshmallows you care to roast.

Of course, along with these special events, there are lots more fun riding opportunities on o er, such as riding the Willow Express, booking a locomotive cab ride for an exclusive round-trip view of the museum’s 6.5-mile railroad, renting a locomotive to try out being an engineer and throwing parties on the Party Caboose.

And the best way to keep the fun rolling is through annual passes, which come in four levels — Conductor, Trainmaster, President and Golden Spike — and provide a range of savings and benefits, from complimentary tickets to discounted event admissions and gift shop merchandise.

The Florida Railroad Museum is located at 12210 83rd St. E. in Parrish. For more information about the museum, annual passes and its rides and events, including dates, arrival times, rules and more, visit www.frrm.org. To book locomotive rides and rentals, call the ticket o ce at 941776-0906.

The Kings Avenue Baptist committee had a hard decision to make after a pair of hurricanes battered the community this fall.

Instead of hosting what would have been the 38th annual Walk Thru Bethlehem, they chose to host Rebuild Days in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

Typically, volunteers spend the weeks building Walk Thru Bethlehem, a living recreation of what Bethlehem was like during the time of Jesus’ birth. Volunteers portrayed the citizens of Bethlehem and, at the end, a couple left with no where to stay but the barn of an inn.

This year’s first scheduled Build Day was at the end of October. By the end of the initial meeting, the committee decided the community needed something different this year — a group of volunteers to be the hands and feet of God to help the area rebuild after the storm.

Tracy Hoyt, a city director with Walk Thru Bethlehem, said the event has always been for the community, not just the Kings Avenue Baptist congregation.

“We needed to see what the community needed most, and we felt like it would be more important to do that,” Hoyt said.

Each Saturday, a team of around a dozen volunteers have gone out in the community to help three to four families clean up after the storm. They might not be able to fix a roof, but the volunteers

have helped cut trees, haul branches and clean up debris left from Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

Despite the di cult decision to cancel the Walk Thru Bethlehem, Hoyt said the community’s response has been positive.

“The community has been positively responding to our announcement and understanding why we had to do it, and we appreciate the community’s support of the decision that we made,” she said.

To o er a di erent community event this year, the church will host a traditional Christmas sing-along at 4 p.m. on Sunday, December 15.

This year’s Bethlehem experience will also look a little di erent. Each Sunday of December, the church’s pastor will host a sermon series called Into Bethlehem, where attendees will explore the booths that would have been a part of this year’s Walk Thru Bethlehem.

And, Walk Thru Bethlehem will be back in 2025.

“The conversation with … the majority of the congregation and our volunteers is that we personally all miss it very much,” Hoyt said. “But we’re happy to be giving back in a di erent way.”

For more information on how you can volunteer or the Christmas events at Kings Avenue Baptist, visit https://walkthrubethlehem.com/.

e Hole-in-the-Head Gang are looking to start trouble in the Florida Railroad Museum’s Train Robbery Experience.

Yes, this is a minor inconvenience, considering the devastation that has occurred in so many areas after two hurricanes. That said, rehabbing our landscapes a little at a time does provide exercise, a sense of satisfaction and completion and fresh air. I highly recommend long gloves, a longsleeved shirt, long pants, socks, shoes and a hat. You may also need a shovel, hoe, pruner, wheelbarrow and more.

GET THE DIRT:

WHEN SHADE-LOVING PLANTS ARE NOW IN THE SUN

BY LYNN BARBER, URBAN HORTICULTURE AGENT

Removing branches, moss and leaves in the area you want to tackle first is a good start. Put the debris in a pile, garbage can, wheel barrel or another container. You can determine whether the shade loving plants can survive with partial or full sun by checking the “Florida-Friendly Landscaping Guide to Plant Selection & Landscape Design.” You can access this Guide at: https://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/media/fflifasufledu/docs/FFL-Plant-Guide_ v03222022_web.pdf

The most important page in this guide is page 41 which contains the key to symbols and abbreviations. Next, check the page to see Central Florida which is where we are located. Turn to page 101 and find the information about gloriosa lily, which grows well in all three areas, North, Central and South Florida. This plant pre-

fers partial shade/ partial sun and full shade. You may want to transplant the gloriosa lily into a shady area in your landscape now that the current location has full or near full sun. This way, you can plant sun-loving plants in the area where you removed the lily. Check with your neighbors and friends to determine if they have the same or opposite situation. Sharing plants is a lot of fun.

Another alterna-

tive would be to consider using a shade cloth above the plants on a frame or other structure. Shade cloths are available in different percentages of shade/sun protection and several colors. A greenhouse is another option, but it will be much more expensive.

If you prefer not to perform the plant relocation and/or landscape maintenance, consider hiring someone to do it for you. Another option is to get a few of your gardening friends together and work on one area of one yard at a time, then move to the next yard another day. A couple other tips include bending from your knees — not from your waist. Don’t carry things that are too heavy — two people can carry the same heavy object at the same time. I hope this information is helpful to you. For more information, contact Lynn Barber at labarber@ufl.edu.

Whether you’re expecting a

or need advanced

can trust. With state-of-the-art

THE ROUGH RIDERS AND FACES OF COURAGE: A HEARTFELT PARTNERSHIP BRINGING

JOY TO CANCER SURVIVORS

Since its inception, the Faces of Courage Foundation (FOC) has aligned with the Tampa Rough Riders, a group known for participating in Gasparilla parades and for their ties to Theodore Roosevelt’s legacy. This partnership has brought joy, education and comfort to the children and adults attending Faces of Courage’s cancer camps at Rotary’s Camp Florida. The Rough Riders’ involvement, from attending nearly every camp to participating in drive-through camps during the pandemic, highlights their deep connection to this mission.

By Kelly Wise Valdes

pact on everyone involved, from campers to volunteers.

“Mikey bought the former Methodist Camp with the help of fellow Rotarians for the purpose of creating a place where cancer patients and special needs groups could host medically supervised camps,” said Sherry.

“The Rough Riders have a special place in my heart. My husband was a Rough Rider and was in charge of the teddy bear runs for a few years. Unfortunately, he and Mikey have both passed.”

Founded by Mikey Edenfield, a member of both Rotary and the Rough Riders, Rotary’s Camp Florida has served as a haven for special-needs groups, including those battling cancer. Edenfield’s vision of a medically supervised camp lives on through the unwavering commitment of volunteers like the Rough Riders.

For Peggie Sherry, founder of FOC, the most rewarding aspect of this partnership is the shared compassion and dedication. The Faces of Courage Foundation, established by Sherry in 2004, is a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by cancer and blood disorders. Offering free day outings, educational workshops and medically supervised overnight camps, the foundation has made a significant impact over the past 20 years. Sherry reflected on the special partnership between FOC and the Rough Riders, noting its long-lasting im-

Each time the Rough Riders arrive at camp, they bring gifts, including beads and teddy bears, to the excitement of the campers. They distribute between 75-150 bears, depending on the number of survivors in attendance. Beyond tangible gifts, they engage campers with stories about Roosevelt and the Rough Riders’ history, adding an educational element that captivates attendees.

As Faces of Courage continues to serve cancer patients and their families, the partnership with the Rough Riders remains cherished. Their involvement exemplifies the spirit of giving and solidarity, providing both physical comforts and emotional support to campers during challenging times.

Between 15-30 Rough Riders and their significant others attend these camps, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. Faces of Courage is located at 10006 Cross Creek Blvd., Ste. 519, in Tampa. For more information, call 813-948-7478 or visit https://facesofcourage.org/.

NOW OPEN

Whole-Person Care Built Around You

The Tampa Rough Riders bring joy and teddy bears in a continuing partnership with Faces of Courage.

THE MISSING PIECE THEATRE

By Kathy L. Collins

FORMER FOSTER KID IS NOW HOUSE PARENT AT A KID’S PLACE TAMPA BAY

The Missing Piece Theatre Company is a volunteer-run theater organization. All of its performances are offered at the Gem Theater, located at 118 NW 1st Ave. in Mulberry.

The next performance of the highly talented cast and crew of The Missing Piece Theatre is The Gift of the Magi . This will be performed on Friday, December 13, at 8 p.m. and on Saturday, December 14, and Sunday, December 15, at 2 p.m. Tickets are $16. Please visit www.themissingpiecetheatre.org to get tickets.

e Missing Piece eatre Company will perform the charming holiday show, e Gift of e Magi from Friday, December 13, through Sunday, December 15, at the Gem eater, located in Mulberry.

The Gift of the Magi is a one-act play that will be directed by Jennifer Gro , a Florida native from Riverview. This is her second time directing and her directorial debut with The Missing Piece Theatre Company. Joining her as assistant director is Vette Berrian, who lives in Valrico.

Local actors, in addition to the director and assistant director, include Wendy Tompkins of Brandon, James and Sara Strohaker also from Brandon, Eleise Rogacki from Brandon and DeVan Berrian of Valrico. Other actors hail from Winter Haven and Lakeland.

The Gift of the Magi is adapted from the classic O. Henry short story. This is

the perfect story of love and giving that is sure to get you into the holiday spirit. In addition to the show, each performance will also feature a local choir to sing holiday carols.

Steven Bucko, executive director of The Missing Piece Theatre Company, said, “The Gift of the Magi is a touching and beautiful story of a young couple unable to afford presents for each other on their first Christmas together. Each sacrifices a treasure to provide a gift for the other, but, in so doing, they work at almost tragically funny cross-purposes. This is a play about young love and the value of giving. Indeed, the Magi were wise — and their gifts were wise gifts, however foolish in the eyes of the practical.”

Bucko added, “The Gift of the Magi marks the end of our second season. In our first three shows of the year, over 2,200 people have experienced the storytelling of The Missing Piece Theatre. For those who are interested to know what we will be doing for our next season, the audience of The Gift of the Magi will be the first to hear about our amazing slate for 2025.”

Please visit www.themissingpiecetheatre.org for more information.

For 12 years, Norm Cookson and his wife, Heidi Cookson, have worked as ‘house parents’ at ‘of Tampa Bay. It’s a role that hits close to home for Norm, as he spent time in foster care system in Connecticut when he was a teenager.

A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay (AKPTB) is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization that provides a safe, nurturing home to children in foster care in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties. There, Norm, Heidi and the other house parents work 24-hour shifts seven days a week in their assigned houses and then have one week o . “It feels good to know that I can help someone and really rewarding to make a positive impact on the kids,” Norm said.

While on shift, the Cooksons’ days usually start at 6 a.m. and end around 10 or 11 p.m. They get the kids to school, take them to appointments and extracurricular activities, administer medications, do laundry, cook, clean, work to instill positive behaviors — including eating, hygiene, chores and getting along with other kids in the house — and provide love and encouragement.

“I am constantly having the alarm on my phone remind me of all the things to do throughout the day,” Norm said.

Up to 10 children live in each home on campus at any given time, and hundreds of kids have come through the door of the home managed by the Cooksons over the years.

With a professional background that includes machining and nursing, Norm also has a side business as a DJ and is certified

in water safety. He uses both to connect with the kids.

A Kid’s Place recently launched the Building a Brighter Future Capital Campaign to raise $8 million, which will fund construction of a 12,000-square-foot activity center on A Kid’s Place’s campus.

“The new activity center will be godsend to help with the kids’ behavior and mental attitude,” Norm said. “It would give us a nice space where they can spread out and also have a place for us to host parties and swim in our own pool.”

The new activity center will include larger indoor gathering space for birthday parties, holidays and other group celebrations; more rooms for therapy, family visitation, arts and crafts, vocational education and community involvement; a dedicated educational computer lab; spaces for enhanced ‘Stepping Stones’ program, which teaches kids age 13 and up independent living skills; an outdoor basketball court; and an outdoor courtyard, exercise room and swimming pool.

Over 5,000 children are in foster care in the Tampa Bay area. Since 2009, A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay has served over 1,700 children and 753 families. The average length of stay at A Kid’s Place is 578 days, and the longest length of stay for a current child living at A Kid’s Place is seven years.

To learn more about the Building a Brighter Future campaign, call Samantha Mellen at 813-381-3839 or visit https://akpcapitalcampaign.org/. For more information on AKPTB, visit https://akidsplacetb.org/. Sta Report

Norm Cookson connects with the children at A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay through music, swimming and games.

Community Arts

Community Arts

By Kathy L. Collins, Art & Entertainment Director

Get into the holiday spirit with a visit to Plant City Entertainment, located in historic downtown Plant City, and see its holiday spectacular, Jingle Bell Jukebox. This lively children’s musical will be performed on Saturday, December 7, at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. It will also be performed on Sunday, December 8, at 2 p.m. The box o ce opens at 12:30 p.m. for the matinees and at 6:30 p.m. for the evening show.

By Kathy L. Collins, Art & Entertainment Director

Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children 12 years old and younger. You can get tickets online by visiting www.pceshows.com.

Jingle Bell Jukebox is directed by Jonathan Douglas.

“We are celebrating the holiday season with Jingle Bell Jukebox, a collection of updated Christmas Songs performed by 22 of the most talented kids ages 4 to 17 that I have ever had the pleasure of directing,” said Douglas.

You can sing along with update arrangements of Christmas classics and reminisce about Christmases past while creating new memories this this never to be forgotten holiday event.

Douglas said, “With songs like Frosty Hand Jive to Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, we are sure to put you in the

Plant City Entertainment wants to help you kick o the holidays with a presentation of Jingle Bell Jukebox. e show is packed with festive cheer and classic holiday tunes. It is a great show for the whole family. If you go, bring a nonperishable food item for those in need and get a sweet treat from Santa.

holiday spirit.”

In addition, Plant City Entertainment is opening its final dress rehearsal for a group of kids to help make this holiday a little brighter. And that is not all, as Plant City Entertainment is also collaborating with the United Food Bank and Services of Plant City and will be accepting donations of nonperishable food items or cash contributions to help feed the community. Collection boxes will be available in the lobby. Everyone who contributes will receive a sweet treat from Santa Claus himself.

Douglas said, “With a visit from jolly old St. Nick himself, this will be an event for the whole family not to be missed.”

Whether you are young or young at heart, the Jingle Bell Jukebox show is the perfect way to kick o the most wonderful time of the year.

Plant City Entertainment is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Its mission is: “Instill the love of live theater in the child, renew the magic in our senior citizens, and for all those ages in between, to promote self-confidence, teamwork, and fun for all, as we strive to entertain.”

For more information, please visit www. pceshows.com.

The Village Players will present A Christmas Chaos over several weekends this December. All shows will be performed at the historic James McCabe Theater, located at 506 N. 5th St. in Valrico.

The shows will be held on Friday, December 6, 13 and 20, and on Saturday, December 7, 14 and 21, at 8 p.m. There will also be two Sunday matinees on December 8 and 15 at 3 p.m.

Tickets are $23 plus a fee for general admission and $20 for seniors, military and students. You can get tickets by visiting https://thevillageplayersvalrico.com.

A Christmas Chaos was written by Michael Wehrli and directed by veteran Village Players actor and director Gail Pierce. A Christmas Chaos is a comedy where everything that can go wrong does go wrong. Imagine that the Royal Shakespeare Company has not shown up for a performance of A Christmas Carol. What does the theater company do? It gathers up a group of hapless actors and technicians to put together a production in less than a day.

Pierce said, “Imagine your classic A Christmas Carol. Now imagine everything going hilariously wrong. There are missing actors, a frazzled director and last-minute

swaps. All of this makes this Christmas carol anything but traditional.”

In A Christmas Chaos, the cast and crew scramble to keep the show on track, giving audiences an evening of unexpected laughs, holiday mishaps and a warm reminder of the season’s true spirit. It’s a fast-paced comedy where the wheels might come o , but the laughs just keep rolling.

The Village Players is Hillsborough County’s oldest all-volunteer community theater. The Village Players is a cornerstone of the Tampa Bay arts community, showcasing the talents of local performers and creatives through a variety of theatrical productions. Its commitment to quality, community-driven performances is embodied by its dedicated all-volunteer cast and crew, whose passion and enthusiasm for theater bring each of its productions to life.

The Village Players is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community teaching theater. The Village Players team members train, rehearse and perform at the James McCabe Theater in Valrico, a building constructed in 1915 that is on the county’s Register of Historic Places. For more information, please visit https:// thevillageplayersvalrico.com.

The Dance Center, located in Brandon, is set to present the holiday classic The Nutcracker but with a twist. Hannah Townend, owner of The Dance Center, said, “Get ready to experience The Nutcracker like never before. In our version, jazz meets ballet in an electrifying production that is pure holiday joy. Join The Dance Center’s brilliant dancers as they bring you a fresh, unforgettable twist on this timeless classic.”

Brandon’s own rising stars including, Emily, Katie and Madeline Gordon, are set to dazzle in a modern, jazz-infused Nutcracker production. The dancers proudly represent Nativity Catholic School and Newsome High School. These three talented sisters will take on iconic roles. Emily, who is 13 years old, will take on the role of the enchanting Sugar Plum Fairy. Katie, who is 16 years old, will take on the role of the captivating Dew Drop Fairy. And Madeline, who is 18 years old, will shine as the regal Snow Queen.

Townend explained, “In this unique twist on the classic tale, the fairies are hosting a vibrant Christmas party set in the present day. And that is not all. Eight members of The Dance Center’s thriving adult dance program will also grace the stage, proving

By Kathy L. Collins, Art & Entertainment Director By Kathy L. Collins, Art & Entertainment Director

that the love of dance knows no age.”

Act 1 is set to jazz arrangement of Nutcracker classics, with music by Duke Ellington and other renowned jazz artists. Act 2 takes the audience through the Land of Sweets set to the original scores by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.

Townend said, “Get ready for an unforgettable performance by a cast that truly embodies the spirit of our community.”

The Dance Center was severely damaged as a result of Hurricane Milton. Townend said, “We discovered extensive damage in our studios and have not been able to reopen for business in several weeks. For the first time in 30 years, a hurricane shut down The Dance Center.”

Townend added, “Thanks to a few local business owners, we were able to get our dancers back into class and resume rehearsals for our first-ever jazz-infused Nutcracker production.”

The Nutcracker will be presented on Sunday, December 15, at 3:30 and 6 p.m. at Cypress Creek Middle School, located at 8845 Old Pasco Rd. in Wesley Chapel. Tickets are $27.50 and can be obtained by visiting https://31542.danceticketing. com/r/events/.

The holidays are a wondrous time made even better with an outing to see classic holiday movies at a classic, historic movie palace. The Tampa Theatre is presenting its annual Holiday Classics film series.” Before the film, guests are invited to meet and snap photos with Old St. Nick himself in front of the Christmas tree, starting at 2 p.m. in the lobby.

Jill Witecki with the Tampa Theatre said, “When you visit the historic Tampa Theatre, you are not just coming for a movie — you are coming for an experience. One of the brightest and most beloved of those experiences is the tradition of sharing favorite holiday films on the big screen with family and friends and singing along to holiday carols with the Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ before the show.”

Then, come see Buddy on the big screen as Elf takes center stage on Sunday, December 8, at 3 p.m.

It’s A Wonderful Life will be presented over four days with several viewings beginning on Thursday, December 19, at 7 p.m. It will then be presented on Fri-

Community Arts &Events Community Arts &Events

day, December 20, at 7 p.m.; on Sunday, December 22, at 3 and 7 p.m.; and on Monday, December 23, at 3 and 7 p.m.

To round out the holiday season, come see Home Alone on Sunday, December 29, at 3 p.m.

Finish o the holiday season with a free screening of Sing-along Frozen on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at 3 p.m.

Tickets for Sing-along White Christmas are $14.50 ($11.50 for members), and all other movies of the Holiday Classics series are $10 ($7 for members).

Witecki said, “And if the ‘nice list’ nostalgia of the Holiday Classics is not your cup of cocoa, three late-night REWIND o erings might be just the thing to frost your cookies.”

You can see Krampus on Friday, December 13, at 10:45 p.m.; Die Hard on Friday, December 20, at 10:30 p.m.; and Tangerine on Friday, December 27, at 10:30 p.m.

Tickets to REWIND are $9 ($6 for members).

You can get tickets at the historic Franklin Street Box O ce or online at www.tampatheatre.org.

Beyond

A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay

Holiday Gift Drive www.akidsplacetb.org or 813-381-3839

To ys For To ts Tampa

Annual U.S. Marine Corps gift collection tampa-fl.toysfortots.org or 727 -617-8681

Metropol itan M inistr ies

Food & toy donations www.metromin.org or 813 -209-1000