Osprey Observer Riverview/Apollo Beach June 2024

WIMAUMA’S RECORD-SETTING HIGH SCHOOL CELEBRATES ‘TOPPING OUT’ MILESTONE

Long before High School UUU in Wimauma welcomes its first students, learning has been underway at the school that “is two times larger in size and cost than anything we’ve ever built,” according to Chris Farkas, deputy superintendent of operations for Hillsborough County Public Schools.

“It’s good to be on a ground-up project,” said Chris Hart, a supervisor with The Beck Company, which, in partnership with Envision, has been contracted to build High School UUU, as it is known before its name selection. “A job of this nature, even if you’ve seen ten other ones, you’re going to see something here you haven’t seen before.”

Hart celebrated May 1 at the topping-out ceremony for the $176 million, multibuilding campus, with 3-story classroom wings, at 1708 W. Lake Dr. in Wimauma. It sits on an 87-acre greenfield site that will also house an elementary and middle school, set to open in 2027 and 2028, respectively. They will share with the 359,000-square-foot high school campus a central energy plant that is set to become operational with the high school’s opening, in time for the start of the 2025-26 school year.

‘Topping out’ is a ceremony that occurs when the final, or highest, structural theme is raised into place, what Ryan Toth of The Beck Company referred to as “like a Thanksgiving dinner.” Feasting on the project’s progress were contractors, skilled tradespeople and school ofcials, including board

By Linda Chion

Chair Karen Perez and board members Lynn Gray and Patti Rendon, as well as Envision co-founders Allen Greene II, a Sickles High School graduate, and his namesake father, a graduate of Tampa Bay Technology High.

The younger Greene said the Wimauma school “is by far the largest and most impactful project” the company has worked on for the county, as he reflected on the recent passing of Doris Ross Reddick, the namesake of the nearby elementary school, whose celebration of life was held a day later. Reddick died on April 21 at age 97.

Reddick was the first African-American school board member and chair. Under her watchful eye, annual minority business allocations rose “from a meager $1,084 to millions” of dollars, according to a 2021 proclamation issued for her 94th birthday.

Steve Hurst, a Beck supervisor, reflected on the value of hands-on work and training in a field that is witnessing a two-generation gap in trades experience.

School highlights include a 2-story media center; a 2-story, 3,400-seat gymnasium; and a 973-seat theater/auditorium and orchestra pit. Also in the plans are an automotive lab; JROTC labs; digital, 2D and 3D art labs; and a lab for EA Sports, a division of Electronic Arts that develops and publishes sports video games. Plans detail 142 classrooms and a multisport synthetic turf playing field and a 3,500-seat stadium.

The skyline of Apollo Beach has forever been changed. Tampa Electric has recently completed demolition of two chimneys at Big Bend Power Station. Dating back to the 1970s, the power plant has been a familiar landmark in the community. Originally, the power plant had a total of four chimneys, with one having been removed in 2017.

TAMPA ELECTRIC REMOVES TWO MORE CHIMNEYS AT BIG BEND POWER PLANT

By Kelly Wise Valdes

According to Cheri Jacobs, media spokesperson for Tampa Electric, the Big Bend Modernization project was a huge undertaking and included demolition of portions of the plant that were no longer needed. This began as a fi veyear project. Removing the chimneys was the fi rst and most visible phase of that dismantlement project. The 500-foot-tall chimneys were made of poured reinforced concrete, thus requiring a specialized team to dismantle them in pieces. Demolition took more than a year to complete.

“The interior of one chimney had previously been sprayed with a mastic material,” said Jacobs. “Removing and properly disposing of the material took longer than expected.”

Now there is one remaining chimney, Big Bend Unit 4, which runs on natural gas or coal and will continue to operate. Even with the one remaining chimney, the change is evident.

“Big Bend’s chimneys have been landmarks in Apollo Beach for decades,” said Allan Williams, director of Big Bend

Power Station.

“The new view is dramatically di f erent.”

Tampa Electric’s goal is to maximize the use of recyclable materials and obsolete equipment to reduce construction costs. Some metal will be recycled or sold as scrap; some equipment, such as pumps and motors, will be sold on the secondhand market.

In the past two decades, Tampa Electric has reduced its use of coal by more than 90 percent and has cut its carbon footprint in half.

Longtime Apollo Beach resident Teo Leonard will miss the chimneys.

“Many of us relied on the stacks for our weather forecast, depending on how they are blowing would determine if a jet ski day or fi shing day,” said Leonard. “Coming in after a day [on] the water, the chimneys guided us home. Many of us locals will miss all the stacks.”

Tampa Electric, one of Florida’s largest investor-owned electric utilities, serves about 840,000 customers in West Central Florida. For more information, visit www.tecoenergy.com.

Zach Voelker, design technology coordinator at Te Beck Group, asks for signatures to a photo rendering of High School UUU in Wimauma.

Te Big Bend Modernization project has been completed with the removal of two additional 500-foot chimneys.

Proud Supporters of ECHO

RIVERVIEW HONORARY MAYOR’S RACE DECLARES A WINNER APOLLO BEACH ELEMENTARY TO ADD GRADES SIX THROUGH EIGHT

After a very close race to the finish line, Amy Sams was declared the winner and now holds the distinguished title of honorary mayor of Riverview. It was a fight to the finish between Sams and Shannon Keil, and both participants collectively raised more than $27,000 for local charities. It was clearly a collective win for the community as a whole.

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Sams, principal of Southshore Charter Academy, raised money for ECHO as well her school. Part of the money earned during the monthlong race is being used toward the purchase of ballistic window film.

“We raised over $15K during the race, but we have had more donors step forward since the race ended, and with their help we have enough to take care of our security upgrade project,” said Sams.

During the campaign, sponsored by the Riverview Woman’s Club, Sams hosted many fundraisers.

“My favorite part of participating in this campaign was interacting with so many people,” said Sams. “I met many people in the community that I might not otherwise have ever had a chance to meet. I had conversations with school stakeholders that opened many other doors to also support our students.”

Of all the fundraisers she hosted, the most valuable event was a designer bag bingo.

“We had so many sponsors for the event that we had no overhead, and the turnout was great,” said Sams. “This event was the one where I was able to interact with the most people from both ECHO and our school, so it was a win-win for everybody.”

Sams had only great things to say about her participation in this time-honored tradition.

“The campaign was an exhausting but exhilarating experience, one that I am happy to have had,” said Sams. “I encourage anyone who has ever considered participating to jump in and do it.”

Keil, second runner-up in the race, is the president and CEO of The Regent. Her campaign raised more than $11K and the two nonprofit organizations that will receive those funds are the Mary & Martha House and Black Dagger Military Hunt Club. The Mary & Martha House is a charity with personal ties to Keil, as the execute director, Laurie Herring, was Keil’s best friend and passed away three years ago.

“Laurie’s birthday was April 12, and what better way to celebrate her birthday than to raise money for the month for her passion driver, domestic abuse prevention and the Mary & Martha House?”

For more information about the host and sponsor of the Riverview Honorary Mayor’s Race, visit www.riverviewwomansclub.org.

Hillsborough School Board members have agreed to turn Apollo Beach Elementary into a school for kindergarten through grade eight, starting with the addition of grade six for the 2024-25 school year.

The school board voted in May to allow for the addition of grade seven in school year 2026-27, and grade eight a year after that, making complete the answer to a community push for a K-8 school at 501 Apollo Beach Blvd.

According to school ofcials, approximately five modular classrooms will be added to the Apollo Beach Elementary school site for the new school year, at a cost of about $220,000. There will be no boundary changes and seats will be available through choice, with an additional window for middle school enrollment offered to students assigned to Apollo Beach for the elementary grades. Enrollment will be capped at 100 students for each new grade level.

The K-8 initiative reportedly was the choice of parents who send their children to the school, which opened in 1982, in a community that over the past decade has seen rapid growth, with more to come.

At a December board meeting, Colleen Bianucci presented herself as a chair of the community’s Apollo Beach K-8 initiative. She reported that more than 1,700 signatures had been obtained in favor of the K-8 proposal. Also, Bianucci reported that

By Linda Chion

organizers had polled more than 200 former Apollo Beach families to determine if they would opt to resend their children to the elementary school if it ofered the additional grades.

According to Bianucci, “the overwhelming majority said ‘yes,’ and those who said ‘no’ said no because their children are entering eighth or ninth grade.”

Fast forward to the May 7 meeting, before the vote that secured Apollo Beach’s new direction, where Bianucci again spoke in favor of the community push for additional grades. With new neighborhoods, roads and shopping centers, “our community is bursting at the seams,” she said.

The K-8 issue for Apollo Beach opened a spirited dialogue among school board members, including Patti Rendon, the sole vote against the measure. She said that with “thousands of homes being built,” she would like to see a broader plan that addresses academic and overcrowding needs throughout the district.

According to school ofcials, no additional units for AP, guidance and other positions will be aforded at Apollo Beach K-8 until school year 2025-26. Sport options will be fully considered in year three, after all middle school grades have been added. Students will have the option of playing with their assigned middle school if the sport they desire cannot be filled otherwise. Visit the website for more at www. hillsboroughschools.org.choice.

Amy Sams, principal of Southshore Charter Academy, has been crowned the new honorary mayor of Riverview by the Riverview Woman’s Club.

Colleen Bianucci posted on Facebook this photo of parents and students at a school board meeting in April, in support of the Apollo Beach K-8 initiative.

Shannon Keil, president and CEO of Te Regent, raised more than $11K for her nonproft organizations during her race.

AB WOMAN’S CLUB AWARDS 11 SCHOLARSHIPS TO STUDENTS

‘Exceptional,’ ‘the hardest worker,’ ‘responsible,’ ‘determined,’ ‘organized,’ ‘highly driven to succeed,’ ‘the most dedicated,’ ‘natural leader,’ ‘unwavering commitment to learning’ and ‘great energy’ are just a few of the words and phrases used in the recommendations to describe the Apollo Beach Woman’s Club (ABWC) 2024 college scholarship recipients. This year, ABWC awarded $14,100 in college scholarships to 11 local high school students: four from East Bay High School, five from Lennard High School and two from Sumner High School.

The scholarships were funded by fundraisers, club members/family memorials and donations from the Estate of Betty Fay, Eileen Sengstock (in memory of her daughter) and Zeta Kappa Sorority (in memory of Sonja Davidson). Recipients attending a fouryear Florida university received $1,500 and Hillsborough Community College students received $700 for tuition, books and lab fees. The recipients, their family members and their guidance counselors were honored at the ABWC May 8 luncheon held at the Moose Lodge in Ruskin.

All applicants must meet the club’s scholarship criteria: They must reside in Apollo Beach (33572) and/or be zoned to attend either East Bay or Lennard High School; plan to attend a Florida college or university; show financial need; have outstanding scholastic accomplishments, extracurricular activities and leadership roles; have two recommendations; write a 500-word student

essay and have community service hours.

The college scholarships were awarded to these students: Jhada Camacho (University of South Florida, premed), Nancy Chen (Florida State University, biological sciences), Shawn Dowe (Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, political science/ military science) and Landon Hernandez (Hillsborough Community College, fire science) from East Bay High; Alexis Behnken (University of Florida, nursing), Jade Cheong (University of Florida, biology/premed), Jaylee Cheong (University of Florida, kinesiology), Isabella Coronel (University of Florida, biology/premed) and Kathryn Huard (University of Tampa, international studies) from Lennard High; and Ryan Mercer (Hillsborough Community College, construction management) and Nicolas Mercer (Hillsborough Community College, health sciences) from Sumner High.

ABWC has served the community since 1959. The club’s primary objectives are to promote sociability among its members, work toward advancing womankind and provide scholarships for educating and training students living in Apollo Beach and surrounding areas who demonstrate financial need. If you wish to learn more about ABWC, attend any events (resuming in September) or join the club (annual membership dues are $50), visit www.apollobeachwomansclub.com or contact ABWC’s second vice president of membership, Liz Pedersen, at 813-777-8215 or kenlizpedersen@msn.com.

DR. CHERI JROLF WINS AMERICAN MOTHER OF THE YEAR FOR FLORIDA

By Ashley Abene

Since 1935, an organization called American Mothers Inc. has been encouraging and highlighting mothers across the United States. This organization aims to emphasize moms, motherhood itself and community service that moms all over the United States participate in. Each year, American Mothers Inc. awards a mom in each state with the American Mother of the Year Award. This year, Dr. Cheri Jrolf won the 2024 American Mother of the Year Award for Florida.

Dr. Jrolf is a local, dedicated mother of four boys and one girl. She believes in active involvement in her children’s lives, empathy and raising her children to be well-rounded individuals. Within her professional career, she has over 28 years of clinical experience and is a renowned, board-certified physician associate. She earned her doctorate from A.T. Still University in medical sciences with a focus on education. She has developed several patient education programs geared toward encouraging healthier living within the community.

She has largely been involved in various philanthropic endeavors, such as the Spe-

cial Olympics and foster care awareness. She has strongly advocated for children born with neonatal abstinence syndrome, a condition that occurs when a baby is exposed to drugs in the womb and experiences withdrawal. She also has been on a medical mission to the Dominican Republic with One World Surgery and Village Medical. Dr. Jrolf said of receiving this award, “I am humbled and incredibly grateful to receive the American Mothers 2024 award for Mother of the Year for Florida. I am an active member. My mantra is, ‘embrace the journey, cultivate gratitude and strive for growth.’ This honor is not just a recognition of my eforts but a celebration of the magical moments of motherhood that have shaped my journey. My goal for the next year is to get involved with the foster care system in our area, as the system is overwhelmed, and I have firsthand experience related to the challenges. I recently nominated a fellow physician associate for next year, Amanda Stanton.” To find out more information about the American Mothers organization or its American Mother of the Year Award, visit its website at www.americanmothers.org.

Convenient Health Care Under One Roof

When there isn’t a moment left in your day, you need your health care to be convenient. With primary care, specialty care, lab, and advanced imaging all in the same location, AdventHealth Care Pavilion in Riverview makes sure the care you need is just around the corner. So, you can get back to life’s

Apollo Beach Woman’s Club (ABWC) 2024 college scholarship recipients and Scholarship Committee members at the May 8 ABWC luncheon held at the Moose Lodge in Ruskin.

Dr. Cheri Jrolf is an active member of American Mothers Inc. and regularly attends events.

By Nitish Rele

which we recently tested or the hatchback we have driven in the past. Both will leave a smile on your face.

Under the hood of the Mazda3 sits a turbocharged engine putting out 227 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 310 pounds-feet of torque at 2,500 rpm (with 87 octane gas). A smooth-shifting six-speed auto gearbox makes the drive even more fun. Suspension is handled via a MacPherson strut front and a torsion beam axle rear so unpleasant road bumps or curves are handled with ease. The electric power rack-and-pinion steering is instant and on the mark. As always, it is equipped with the direct-injection Skyactiv, which uses a torque boost via a high compression ratio to increase fuel economy.

A black metallic-finish grille hosts a centered Mazda insignia surrounded by horizontal LED adaptive headlights and daytime running lights. Also distinctive are side sill extensions, a rear hatch spoiler and heated power side mirrors, all in black, along with a shark-fin antenna. Other carmakers could benefit from borrowing the simple command control center to operate the all-new and bigger 10.25-inch navigation/infotainment screen. The rich-looking black leath-

er upholstery gives the cabin a gorgeous vibe. Other admirable comforts include the eight-way power driver and four-way manual front-passenger heated seats, push-button start, dual auto a/c, 60/40 fold-down rear seat with hidden armrest and cup holders, overhead sunglass holder, head-up display, power windows and door locks, paddle shifters, power moonroof, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bose 12-speaker audio and AM/ FM.

Standard safety features include the dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag, front knee airbags, stability and traction control, hill launch assist, active front-head restraints, four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist, rearview camera, 360-degree monitor, radar cruise control, lane keep assist and departure warning, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-trafc alert and tire pressure monitoring system. The G-Vectoring Control Plus (which enables drivers to handle emergency situations or untoward road conditions with more accurate steering inputs) comes at no extra cost. And the i-ACTIV AWD works along with G-Vectoring to control torque distribution between front/ rear wheels.

The supple and exciting Mazda3 is a compact car, so we will excuse the tight rear seat for passengers. But this fuel-sipper, especially on the highway, is afordable, stylish and enjoyable for the daily jaunt or even to take on a long trip.

NAVIGATING TENSIONS BETWEEN NEW SPOUSES AND ADULT CHILDREN

By Laurie E. Ohall, Florida Board-certifed Elder Law Attorney

challenges. If there’s friction between your new spouse and your adult children, your estate planning process will require careful consideration and extra sensitivity.

Understanding the Concerns

When starting the planning process, you first need to understand why there may be tension in the family. It might be lingering grief for a deceased parent, protectiveness over family heirlooms or anxieties arising from age diferences. While fixing long-standing issues is ideal, your primary focus in estate planning must be on preserving your own wishes and avoiding arguments.

Strategies for Balancing Interests

Working with an experienced lawyer will give you the best chance of creating a plan that fosters fairness and reduces the risk of conflict. Here are some potential strategies:

• Clear and Transparent Communication: Having open discussions (if possible) with all parties about your intentions for your estate can prevent surprises and promote understanding.

• Prenuptial or Postnuptial Agreements: These agreements can clearly define asset ownership and protect assets brought into the new marriage.

• Trust: Trusts can make sure your spouse

has what they need while making sure certain things go to your children.

• Gifting During Your Lifetime: Consider gifting assets to your children outside of your estate plan. This can give you the satisfaction of seeing them enjoy your generosity, and potentially reduce tension.

Te Value of Professional Guidance

Given the intricacies of estate planning within blended families, seeking professional guidance is highly recommended. Experienced will and trust attorneys possess the expertise to navigate complex family dynamics and legal complexities efectively. By understanding your unique concerns and objectives, they can tailor a comprehensive plan that aligns with your wishes, provides for your loved ones and preserves your legacy for generations to come.

In conclusion, while blending families can present challenges, careful planning and thoughtful communication can help navigate tensions and create harmony within them. By addressing concerns openly, exploring efective strategies and seeking professional guidance, you can ensure that your estate plan reflects your values and priorities while fostering peace and understanding among your loved ones.

Laurie Ohall is a Florida board-certifed elder law attorney practicing in Brandon, Florida. She has been practicing law for 30 years and her practice is focused on estate planning, elder law planning and probate. Ohall is licensed to practice law in Florida and Ohio.

THE CENTER 4LIFE LEARNING IN SUN CITY CENTER OFFERS A SUMMER SESSION

The Center 4Life Learning, o f ered through the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, will offer a summer session. The 2024 summer session runs from Tuesday, July 9, through Friday, September 13. You must register by July 9. You can register by visiting www.sccumc.com/4lifelearning.

By Kathy L. Collins

You can spend the summer learning something new in a fun and relaxed atmosphere at the Center 4Life Learning ofered by the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center. Tis includes instructors such as Nancy Starewicz, who presented ‘What Kind of Animal Are You?’

The Center 4Life Learning serves the entire community. As such, the 2024 summer session is open to all adults in the community. All classes are o f ered by highly qualifi ed instructors.

Sue Holter, manager of the Center 4Life Learning, said, “In the past, Center 4Life Learning o f ered two semesters of nonaccredited adult education classes. This year, based on community interest, we will have added an abbreviated summer session.”

Holter added, “For this 2024 summer session, a number of our top instructors will be o f ering a variety of classes.”

Holter o f ered a description of what will be o f ered this summer, but this is not an exhaustive list: “Phil Sorrentino, of the Sun City Center Computer Club,

will present ‘streaming’ as well as teach a class on the use of Android smartphones/ tablets. Bonnie DeVagno will continue to teach her ever-popular sign language course. Rob Silverman will be presenting ‘Fun with Fifties Rock ‘n’ Roll.’ Rob will be playing some of the 1950s’ favorite tunes from stars like Fats Domino, Elvis Presley, Patsy Cline, the Shirelles, Bobby Rydell, Wanda Jackson, Bobby Darin, Johnny Cash, Sister Rosetta Tharpe and Chuck Berry. You are welcome to bring a chilled Coke or Vernors. You can sit back and enjoy.”

Holter said, “We encourage class registration by July 9. You may register on our website at www.sccumc.com/4lifelearning or you can visit us at the center o f ce. Center 4Life Learning is located on the campus of Sun City Center United Methodist Church at 1971 Haverford Ave. in Sun City Center.”

The center o f ce hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. It accepts credit cards, checks and cash. If you have questions, please contact Holter at center4life@sccumc.com or call 813-634-8607.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY LIBRARIES

PRESENT FAMILIES AN ESCAPE FROM SUMMER DISTRACTIONS

Summer is a time usually dedicated to relaxing, vacationing and often being a ‘couch potato.’ In an effort to keep families engaged, the Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative (HCPLC) is o f ering ways to learn new things and gain new friends, and perhaps even help you to avoid the temptation of scrolling mindlessly.

By Gunnar Wagner

At HCPLC branches throughout the county, there are a variety of events being held that everyone can enjoy.

A few of the o f ered classes include:

• LEGO Robotics, an introduction to robotics for kids with Lego.

• The How-to’s of Crime-solving, where teens are familiarized to the basics of crime solving through hands-on activities to help library sta f solve a crime.

• Fascinating Stories From Our National Parks, where adults can learn about how many Park Service locations there are and the history of the United States’ great scenery though a PowerPoint presentation, handouts and audience interaction.

The HCPLC is also o f ering its Summer Reading program.

“This year’s Summer Reading program and events o f er a fun and easy way to

foster a lifelong love of reading and learning,” said Cheryl Wolfe, manager of learning experiences for the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library.

Many events and classes are ongoing throughout the summer, while others are distinct in that they are held only on particular dates and allow for new opportunities to learn. The schedule is done this way in order to guarantee that people will be excited and eager to travel to local libraries all over the county. So, get the most out of these experiences, and don’t forget to use any resources that the libraries have, as they just might help you in the future.

For more information about upcoming events or to register, visit the HCPLC website at https://hcplc.org/events or call 813-273-3652. Spaces may be limited for specifi c events. From LEGO Robotics to playing a game about traveling the world, local libraries have constantly remained at the core of communal engagement for decades and will continue to be for a millennium. Go and see what other wonders are at your local library and experience the delight of knowledge and imagination.

BECOME A POLL WORKER IN HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY

Free and fair elections are the hallmark of a democratic society, and poll workers are the backbones of free and fair elections. Without their tireless eforts, elections would not run as smoothly and corruption-free as they should.

If you are a resident of Hillsborough County, at least 18 years old and a registered voter, you can apply to work as a poll worker in Hillsborough County in the upcoming election. You must be able to lift 1530 pounds and work for at least a 14-hour day.

Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer said, “I want the local community to know that poll workers are crucial to our elections and our democracy. We could not conduct elections for our large county without our poll workers. If you are friendly, disciplined and want to participate in our democracy in a meaningful way, please consider becoming a poll worker.”

Latimer added, “The application is available on our website, and I encourage individuals to apply now. We are already reviewing applications and assigning positions for the upcoming primary and general election. If you apply after our ofce is fully stafed for this election cycle, you can still be considered for future election cycles.”

Poll workers undergo training, about

By Kathy L. Collins

which Latimer said, “We have earned awards for our poll worker training, and our returning poll workers have remarked on how it has improved over the years. It is very informative and prepares our poll workers well for the work they will be doing.”

Poll workers complete several hours of online training at their own pace and then schedule time to participate in in-person labs where they can practice with the equipment that we use in the polling place. Training is available beginning one to two months before the assignment. Once a poll worker is assigned to work, they will receive more information about training from the poll worker services department. Poll workers are paid. The amount you are paid depends on your position and when you are working. For example, election day poll workers in Hillsborough County earn between $330 and $391.

Tasks assigned to poll workers vary, but examples include setting up the polling place, checking voters in, handing out “I Voted” stickers, monitoring the polling location and providing voters with excellent customer service.

For more information on becoming a poll worker and for an application, www. votehillsborough.gov.

Craig Latimer is the Hillsborough County Supervisor of Election. His ofce has won multiple awards, including ones for training poll workers. If you are 18 years old, a resident and a registered voter in Hillsborough County, you can apply to be a poll worker for the upcoming elections.

Te Riverview Public Library is one of many branches in Hillsborough County that ofers the Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative’s summer events and others like them.

The Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library System is home to an amazing collection of photographs known as the Burgert Brothers Photographic Collection. The collection of over 20,000 images is preserved at the John F. Germany Public Library in downtown Tampa. The collection is available for the public to view and use.

Public Library System.

According to Selena Martinez, supervisory librarian and head of the Florida History and Genealogy Department, “The library acquired the majority of the Burgert Brothers Photographic Collection (approximately 18,000 of the now 20,000 images currently in the collection) in 1974 from an independent collector. The other images have been acquired through various purchases and donations from other institutions and the original Burgert family themselves.”

Te Burgert Brothers Photographic Collection has over 20,000 images, including this one of the Burgert Brothers Commercial Photography Studio taken on February 27, 1941. Te collection presents a pictorial record of the commercial, residential and social growth of Tampa Bay from the late 1800s to the early 1960s. Te collection is preserved for the public to view and use at the John F. Germany Public Library in downtown Tampa.

The images in the collection chronicle the history of the Tampa Bay area as it faced wars, natural disasters and economic booms and busts. The images ofer a view of a community at work. This includes a diverse cross section, featuring everything from cigar factories, sponge docks and strawberry fields to grocery stores, service stations and bank lobbies. Many of the photographs also depict the community doing leisure activities, in-

By Kathy L. Collins

cluding enjoying a day at the beach. Some photos also show residents participating in local celebrations, such as the Florida State Fair, and playing their favorite games, like golf, tennis, shuffleboard and even checkers.

Martinez said, “They say a picture is worth a thousand words. The Burgert Brothers Photographic Collection has over 20,000 images in it, so it has over 20 million words to say about the multicultural history of Tampa. The collection is iconic and a cultural heritage institution for the community to take pride in.”

Martinez added,

“There are very few photographic collections that can show a pictorial microhistory of the area. There are images of the same streets, such as Franklin and Madison, from the 1890s all the way up to the 1960s. They are recognizable and seen everywhere in Tampa, from doctors’ ofces to local restaurants. Through this collection the community can look back and see how far we have come, that also how after 130 years, we have also stayed true to our multicultural heritage.”

You can order prints and high-resolution scans of the photos.

For more information, please visit https://hcplc.org/research/burgert or call 813-273-3652.

ROTARY SPOTLIGHT: ACTIVITIES, MEETINGS & MORE

Interact Club of Tampa Bay (High School Students)

The Interact Club of Tampa Bay held its last meeting of this school year on May 6. The club celebrated by handing out $500 worth of gift cards for food and/or beverages to locals at the Westfield Brandon mall, and then enjoyed a complimentary ride on the carousel. Service and fun are what Rotary is all about. Check back in July for the date of the August meeting for area high schoolers at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center, located at 3007 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. Have a great summer! For more information, contact Chad Norgard at chad@norgardinsgrp. com.

Te Interact Club celebrated the end of the year by handing out $500 worth of gift cards to locals at the Westfeld Brandon mall, and then found time for some fun on the carousel.

Zakiyah Adams, (Stanley Thomas Rzad III Memorial Scholarship), Emilee Nevaril, Madisyn McReynolds, Bethany Murrell, London Berry, Lindsay Edwards, Callie Hancock, Gabrielle Howell, Luke Pedrick, Ta’liah Randolph and Lukas Wheeler. The club is also excited to announce that rising high school seniors Ava Benedict and Grifn Chapman will be the FishHawk-Riverview Rotary delegates to the Seminar for Tomorrow’s Leaders (S4TL), a weeklong Rotary leadership seminar for rising high school seniors at Florida Southern College in June. For more information, email Barbara Howard at bh6890rotary@gmail.com or visit FishHawk-Riverview Rotary’s social media pages.

USF Rotaract (College Students)

Do you have any students attending the University of South Florida this summer or fall? As long as students have a BullsConnect account, they can sign up to volunteer with USF Rotaract. It’s a great opportunity to meet new friends and connect with some great students during the summer term or before starting in fall. The USF Rotaract Club received the Volunteer Organization of the Year Award as well as the USF Bridge Builder Award. Go be a part of this dynamic service group! For more information, contact Mikayla Morris at mikaylamorris@usf. edu or visit Instagram @usf_rotaract. FishHawk-Riverview

Congratulations to the 2024 FishHawk-Riverview Rotary high school scholarship recipients who have demonstrated “Service Above Self” in their school careers:

Brandon South Global Eco

Are you passionate about the environment? Then the Brandon South Global Eco Rotary Club needs you. Help it make a diference by joining its Zoom meeting on the second and fourth Mondays of each month from 6-7 p.m. to discuss environmental education and ecological-friendly projects focused on sustainability. For more information, contact Bruno Kazenas at 813-263-7062 or bkazenas@comcast.net.

Brandon ’86

The Brandon ’86 Rotary Club completed a roadside cleanup on Providence Road on May 4. Throughout the summer, the club meets weekly on Fridays from 8-9 a.m. at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center, located at 3007 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. Go check it out! For more information, email info@brandon86rotary.com.

Photo courtesy of the Tampa-Hillsborough County

EXPERIENCED AUTISM ALLIANCE AIMS

TO PROVIDE SUPPORT THROUGH PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

Turning personal passion into a force for change, Experienced Autism Alliance strives to support families and individuals with autism.

Experienced Autism Alliance was founded in 2019 by Tanya Hines, James Hines and Amanda Grozdanic. As two parents of a child with autism and an occupational therapist, respectfully, the trio recognized a significant lack of resources for families. They aimed to leverage their experiences to provide support and assistance to families in the autism community.

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

Tose involved in SpectrumSqueeze get to meet new people, practice life skills and learn new things.

The organization was created in order to assist, empower and support families and individuals with children and adults with autism. Experienced Autism Alliance ofers resources and educational opportunities with the goal of helping the lives of individuals with autism and their families.

One of the ways Experienced Autism Alliance has helped the community is through the SpectrumSqueeze Lemonade Stand that started in October 2023. The lemonade stand is a social program designed to provide meaningful employment opportunities and job training. It works to raise money for Experienced Autism Alliance’s programs and gives individuals with autism a chance to practice social skills and responsibility.

“I am thankful for the chance to work with SpectrumSqueeze and I’m getting

more confidence while working at the register,” said Crystal M., lemonade specialist for SpectrumSqueeze.

Key aspects of the SpectrumSqueeze program include inclusivity, job training, community engagement, self-esteem and self-confidence, sustainability and autism awareness. Families of those with autism appreciate this opportunity for their loved ones not only because it helps them practice new skills but also because of the support and encouragement that the program gives.

“I am proud of my daughter’s first job and love the support and compassion of the lemonade stand,” said Ana Vargas, board member and autism mom.

The SpectrumSqueeze can be found at Experienced Autism Alliance’s annual Inclusive Trunk or Treat and many other community events throughout the year with freshly squeezed, delicious lemonade. Experienced Autism Alliance works yearround to provide resources, including articles and books, events, training opportunities and information on where to find more support in the community that will help families and individuals with autism with skill building and more.

For more information, please email info@autismalliancefl.org, contact 813324-5352 or visit the website for the organization at https://autismalliancefl.org/.

KELLER WILLIAMS RED DAY 2024

Each year on the second Thursday of May, the Keller Williams headquarters in Austin, Texas, goes quiet. So do Keller Williams market centers across the country and around the globe. Instead of booting up their work computers, you’ll find thousands of Keller Williams’ associates starting the day in work boots and gloves.

By Libby Hopkins

From Canada to Paraguay and Spain to Japan, this day is set aside to step away from the ofce and go RED — ‘Renew, Energize and Donate’ within their communities.

“Widely known as RED Day, this annual day of service took shape in May 2009 in celebration of Keller Williams board member Mo Anderson’s birthday,” said Rebecca Bryant, CFO and ofce manager of the Keller Williams South Shore (KWSS) ofce. “Fifteen years later, it continues to grow in momentum as the Keller Williams family unites under a shared commitment to philanthropy.”

Over the years, associates have joined together to build homes, plant gardens, distribute food, clean up parks, support animal shelters and more. With an average market center size of more than 200 agents, that makes for a massive impact on a global scale.

“Keller Williams South Shore opened our doors in Apollo Beach in 2007 and soon added a business center in Sun City Center,” Bryant said. “We are the largest producing brokerage with an ofce in the SouthShore

area with a market share that far exceeds our competitors. We believe this is because we are a brokerage focused on serving our community.”

Since Bryant and her team at Keller Williams focus on their community, they chose the Sun City Center Emergency Squad as part of a giving-back day.

“Every year, our agents nominate local charities,” said Keller Williams South Shore’s career consultant, Mandy Cassiano. “This year, the Emergency Squad won the popular vote amongst the agents. In years past, we’ve helped many deserving charities, including Mary Martha House, C.A.R.E., veteran groups, Lighthouse Gospel Mission, ECHO, Boys & Girls Club and more. It’s a great feeling to take an entire workday to help people in the community. Whatever we are doing, we see the smiles it brings to both the recipients and the agents. Educating the agents about the charities in the area also helps them be more knowledgeable agents for their clients.”

Keller Williams South Shore agents painted a shed, washed cars and made lunch for the volunteers who work for the squad.

“Our market center, KWSS, also raised and donated $736 for this amazing group,” Cassiano said. “Learning they are the only 100 percent volunteer EMT service in the entire state of Florida is amazing.”

Visit www.kwsouthshore.com or call 813641-8300. The ofce is located at 109 Harbor Village Lane in Apollo Beach.

Keller Williams South Shore agents, in honor of Keller Williams’ RED Day, painted a shed, washed cars and made lunch for the volunteers who work for the Sun City Center Emergency Squad.

AUTOMOTIVE INSTRUCTOR STEVEN CONTI RETIRES AFTER 21 YEARS OF TEACHING

After 21 years of teaching, Pepin Academies automotive instructor Steven Conti retired to spend time with his wife and build cars.

Conti has worked at Pepin Academies for the last three years, teaching small engine repair classes, but before joining Pepin Academies’ team he taught at Brandon High School, Leto High School and Hillsborough Community College.

To celebrate his retirement, he brought the 1969 Dodge Daytona Challenger driven by 1970s car racer Marty Robbins.

“I wanted to bring the car in to show the students some of the past before I leave,” Conti said.

Bringing in the Dodge Daytona Challenger on May 16 allowed Conti to connect students to the past by teaching them about the history of the car and Robbins, who was also a singer and songwriter when he wasn’t racing.

Since its race over 50 years ago, the car has been restored by NASCAR legend

By Lily Belcher

Ray Evernham, but it kept its original frame and adaptations from Robbins’ racing.

Conti’s goal to connect students with the past isn’t just a last hoorah but something he has worked on throughout his time as an instructor. Each year, before his group of seniors graduate, he tries to bring in an older car.

“Henry Ford always wanted to preserve the past,” Conti said. “I wanted to be like Henry Ford a little bit … and I think we should because that’s what built America.”

Conti has always been interested in cars. At just 10 years old he would hang out at car garages until they chased him out.

“It gave me a great career, and I try to teach the students that it’s a good career,” he said. “… It could be [their] career in the future. It’s going to change a little with electronics, but it’s still going to be automotive.”

Despite his 100-mile round-trip commute to school every day, Conti said he hates to give teaching up but is looking forward to his retirement.

Conti also hosts a family-friendly YouTube channel called Chip’s Garage, where he highlights diferent old cars and connects his viewers to the past with the vehicles he showcases.

BETHUNE PARK WORKSHOP ADDRESSES WIMAUMA DEVELOPMENT PLANS

A new vision for Bethune Park has gained traction with ever-evolving plans for Wimauma development, which includes redevelopment of the downtown core area.

As envisioned, 4th Street would become the main street entrance to this vibrant downtown area, where now it is just one road among many that house an area of mobile and manufactured homes.

4th Street folds into the back end of the Bethune Park Boys & Girls Club, located at 5809 Edina St., where the Bethune Park Master Plan Community Open House and Workshop was held on May 18.

John Patrick, division director of the Hillsborough County Community and Infrastructure Planning Department, was in attendance, where he discussed the park’s connection to the Wimauma Community Plan, adopted in 2021. The plan “is for all of Wimauma,” Patrick said, “including the rural areas of Wimauma, downtown Wimauma and Bethune Park.”

He noted also that a temporary library is set to open in the fall of 2025, adjacent to the Boys & Girls Club, eventually to be replaced by a larger, permanent building.

Workshop attendees ranked photos printed on oversized posters related to park programming, oferings and architecture styles. Options included a splash pad, a commercial kitchen, outdoor restrooms, an amphitheater, outdoor mov-

By Linda Chion

ies, a farmer’s market, a learning center and teen games. Written comments included those concerning shaded seating areas, daycare facilities for children and adults, a community pool, club expansion and a sports complex and more sport fields. Also in view at the open house was the April 2024 progress report for the Wimauma Downtown Revitalization Action Plan, which has three stages. Stage one involves the establishment of a temporary library, developed civic space for capacity building at Bethune Park and road safety improvements starting with the crosswalks across State Road 674.

Stage two involves a blueprint for inclusion and mitigating gentrification. Action items address mixed-use development that addresses afordable housing, public space for near-term marketplace incubators and the establishment of a business incubator to support entrepreneurs. The third stage involves the allocation of resources for access to infrastructure. Action items include consideration of a bank of transfer of development rights, as well as expansion of the Urban Service Area to allow for higher-density development and septic-to-sewer improvements. Additional items include transforming State Road 674 into a complete street and installing sidewalks and street lighting on 4th Street.

Steven Conti brought a 1969 Dodge Daytona Challenger to Pepin Academies to connect students to the history of car racing during his retirement celebration.

Photo courtesy of Linda Chion.

Hillsborough County planner John Patrick at Bethune Park on May 18.

PINK DOOR BAKERY SERVES

AUTHENTIC FRENCH PASTRIES AND MORE

You no longer have to travel to France to get a bite of authentic French pastries because Julien Almandoz and Sandra Hodet are happily baking up fresh French baked goods at Pink Door Bakery in Riverview. The couple were both born and raised in France. Almandoz was born in Paris and Hodet was born in Brest in northwest France.

“We met in Paris while I was finishing my nursing studies,” said Hodet. “In 2014, we moved to Quebec, and we then had our first child, Nathan.”

The couple spent 10 years in Quebec, Canada, and added a daughter, Sarah, to the family. During this time, Almandoz expressed his dream of one day becoming a business owner and opening his own bakery.

Hodet said, “It was during a discussion on a family vacation in New Orleans that Julien said to me, ‘OK, it’s in the USA that I want my bakery.’”

That was in January 2023. The couple thought about where they wanted to settle, and upon doing research they came across Pink Door Bakery in Riverview, which was for sale. It was the perfect fit for the family.

“We have been the new owners since the reopening on January 24, 2024,” said Hodet. “We kept the concept of an American bakery with cookies, cupcakes and bars but indeed added French bread, pastries, and viennoiseries.”

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Viennoiseries are French baked goods made from a yeast-leavened dough. They are similar to bread or puf pastries but have a richer, sweeter taste.

The Pink Door Bakery ofers a variety of items, including baguettes, sourdough bread, croissants, pain au chocolat as well as diferent types of cakes, such as lemon meringue pie, opera cake, primavera and Paris-Brest, which is a classic French pastry featuring a crisp almond baked ring of choux filled with praline cream and dusted with powdered sugar.

The bakery also ofers toasted baguette sandwiches, breakfast croissants, quiches, cofee and cold drinks. The adorable shop has some seating inside and outside if customers prefer to eat their treats on-site. The couple has plans to open more indoor and outdoor seating soon.

Almandoz is the head baker and Hodet takes care of sales and sandwich preparation.

“We’ve had a very warm welcome from the customers,” said Hodet. “They are so kind and interested, which touches us deeply. Perhaps it’s time to thank them for letting us live our American dream by supporting our local business.”

Pink Door Bakery is located in the Shoppes of Boyette plaza at 11266 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. For more information, call 813442-4474. For up-to-date daily items, visit its Facebook page, ‘Pink Door Bakery.’

RIVERVIEW ARTIST MARY DORSETT GIVES BACK WITH TALENTS

Riverview resident Mary Dorsett is a realist who uses contemporary mediums for paintings, sculptures, drawings and crafts. Her abstract and colorful artworks pay homage to her visions in the art arena. Her calm, personal style radiates joy and peace that are expressed in her vibrant spirit in every design stroke to achieve something extraordinary.

“I call this another level,” Dorsett said. “I’m an upcycler, which means everything can be turned into art. I make art out of palm bark, recycled plastics, rocks, inks, acrylic oils, polishes, leaves and homemade porcelain clay.”

Doing all of this has earned her the nickname ‘Cardboard Mary.’

“I am a visionary,” Dorsett said. “You may see newspaper, cardboard or even cotton. I see a beautiful angel waiting to take flight, and I welcome you to join me on this visual journey to explore your thoughts.”

Dorsett is a cancer survivor, a wife, a mother and an art teacher at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association. From a very young age, Dorsett believed she could do anything that she put her mind to.

“I believe you can create anything from something once you feel it in your heart; you can see it in your mind,” said Dorsett. She instills this belief in the young stu-

By Libby Hopkins

dents of her children’s classes and her adult classes at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association.

If Dorsett is asked to create a mural or an art installation in the community, she immediately gets her creative juices flowing and creates a beautiful work of art.

“I have to say, I honestly love people,” Dorsett said. “I love creating art with them and giving back to our community. I love when a student tells me they can do something. I tell them they can if they just put their mind to it.”

Recently, Dorsett was asked to help a local elementary school with the decorations for its graduation ceremony. The school’s graduation theme is ‘Under the Sea.’ Dorsett immediately went to work cutting out cardboard characters, deepsea creatures and a submarine.

“I loved it when I was asked to help this school,” Dorsett said. “I want these students to have a wonderful graduation ceremony. I also want them to be inspired to create art.”

If you would like to take Dorsett’s adult drawing class or her Creative Sparks class at Center Place, call Center Place at 813685-8888. Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon inside the Brandon Regional Library.

Julian Almandoz and Sandra Hodet, both originally from France, moved their family to Riverview and reopened Pink Door Bakery, which ofers classic baked goods as well as authentic French pastries.

Riverview resident Mary Dorsett is a realist who uses contemporary mediums for paintings, sculptures, drawings and crafts. Dorsett is a cancer survivor, a wife, a mother and an art teacher at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association.

SCAM ALERT! DON’T BE FOOLED BY HURT/LOST PET POSTS

Few things tug at our heartstrings like our furry friends, and no one wants to see a hurt dog or cat that has gone missing from its owner. Most of us have seen legitimate posts on social media from friends or neighbors sharing information about a lost pet. In fact, there are social media sites solely dedicated to reunite missing animals with their owners.

Unfortunately, scammers know that most people have good intentions and would eagerly share posts about a hurt/ lost animal. Many of us may have been victim of this type of scam and not even know it.

The scam begins with a post on social media that shows a hurt/lost pet and a plea to reshare. After the post has been reshared a multitude of times, scammers change the original post to promote a deceptive rental ad. The scam relies on the fact that most people won’t look back at their past posts and notice the change, at least not before others view the post.

The end result is that your social media contacts believe you shared a legitimate rental post that will in fact scam people out of money. These rental posts will ask inquirers to send a deposit to hold the property. The problem is that there is no property and the deposit will never be returned to the victims of this scam. Often this will also involve personal information from the victims to the scammers as well. Sometimes the bait-and-switch scam post

By Kelly Wise Valdes

will contain a malicious link pointing to a survey that ‘guarantees’ a cash payout but steals your personal information.

How do you know if what you are seeing is a scam? Look for the red flags.

First, almost every pet scam post has the same wording — a pet has been hurt or found, and it is not chipped. The scammer will often post on a social media site that is not pet-related, such as a garage sale site. They may also hashtag your city (such as #Riverview) to make you feel like this has certainly happened in your community. And, they always ask to “bump this post.”

Another thing you can do to see whether a post is legitimate is click on the profile of the person who posted about the hurt/ lost pet. Almost all of these scammers have locked their profiles so that people cannot comment on their posts, they have no followers/friends and they show no legitimate posts on their page.

If you see a friend has shared this kind of scam post on social media, it’s important to alert them of these bait-and-switch posts quickly so that they don’t inadvertently lead their friends and family to be scammed out of money or sufer potential identity theft. You can also report the scammer’s profile to Facebook. If you have any questions about the legitimacy of a lost or injured pet post, you can also visit the “FAKE LOST/FOUND DOG POSTS” group on Facebook, where there will be an ongoing list.

FIVE LOCAL GYMNASTS COMPETE IN THE JUNIOR OLYMPICS COMPETITION

Five Tampa Bay Rhythmics gymnasts qualified for nationals after competing against gymnasts across the country at the end of May.

Alexis Georgiev, Madeline Beiter and Priscilla Marin, who are level-nine seniors, advanced to the elite qualifiers in the national competition, formerly known as the Junior Olympics. While they may not have made it to nationals, Tampa Bay Rhythmics owner Tyana Marlowe said the accomplishment was a “big step forward.”

“The most rewarding part was the relief after the competition knowing I gave it my best and now I could relax,” Georgiev said. “Hearing them call my name up as one of the gymnastics that qualified for nationals was very rewarding, and it was something I could bring back to my gym with pride.”

In addition to the three level-nine seniors, two level-six gymnasts, Zaida Leal and Tatiana Acevedo, advanced to the developmental championships. They competed in the championship at the beginning of June.

Coach Pam Tang has coached many of the gymnasts since they were little and has watched them develop as athletes and individuals.

“They are all very, very hard working,” Tang said. “… It’s been such a pleasure watching them grow up and be successful and become women of their own.”

The gymnasts are balancing Advanced

By Lily Belcher

Placement and dual-enrollment classes in high school while putting in between 25-30 hours of gymnastics practice a week.

Beiter said balancing school and gymnastics can be one of the most challenging parts, especially when she wants to commit even more time to her sport. The most rewarding part for her is celebrating successes with her best friends. She also said spending her time at Tampa Bay Rhythmics has allowed her teammates to become family.

“We see each other every day,” Beiter said. “Even when we don’t have practice, we’re all still hanging out together, supporting each other.”

Tampa Bay Rhythmics and Dance opened in 2007 and ofers a range of performing arts teams, including gymnastics, in the Riverview area. The team of coaches trains gymnasts from preschool athletes to young adults in competitive teams.

Through rhythmic gymnastics — a rapidly growing Olympic sport — gymnasts combine dance skills, including flexibility and balance, to make floor routines more graceful and complex.

“Our gym is exclusively for gymnastics and using dance to enhance women’s gymnastics,” Marlowe said.

Visit www.tampabayrhythmics.com or call 813-741-2827 or email tampabayrhythmics@verizon.net.

Scammers’ lost and hurt pet posts on social media sites take advantage of well-meaning people.

Madeline Beiter has balanced school and gymnastics.

Alexis Georgiev has ‘grown up’ at Tampa Bay Rhythmics.

This is no secret. They don’t work for you, they work for the builder! They are not representing you, they are representing the Builder. So that’s a major problem guys!

You want to be represented by a professional who will make sure deadlines are met and have your best interests in mind! At the Tony Baroni Team, we deal with all of the builders and we’ve sold houses through all of them over time. There are hardly any builders locally we have not worked with or that we don’t know.

WITH NEW CONSTRUCTION, YOU DON’T SAVE THE MONEY BY NOT USING A REAL ESTATE AGENT. A lot of people think, “well, I don’t want to use a realtor because I want to save whatever that commission is. I want them them pass those savings onto me.” gure that a realtor is going to be a part of every

They are going to make sure that everything is set up properly. A professional realtor knows what closing costs are. Your new construction realtor will help YOUR NEW CONSTRUCTION REALTOR SHOULD HAVE AWESOME REFERRAL SOURCES. So for example we have some home inspectors we work with. They go through each phase of the construction process. Also: homeowners insurance referrals,

A NEW CONSTRUCTION REALTOR SHOULD HOLD YOUR HAND THROUGHOUT THE PROCESS. If the builder can get 20% as a deposit, they would. It’s typical that we negotiate what that is. For them to take the home of the market or start the construction process, it may be $2,000 or maybe $5,000, but if they could get 20%, they’re going to get 20% from you so you need a realtor representing you for that. in, when you’d make decisions on what

If there’s an in-house lender; let’s say you can’t get pre-approved with that in-house lender. We will probably be able to get you pre-approved elsewhere and then work to deal with the builder to make sure you still get incentives as if you’re using a in-house lender, very important stuf

By Gunnar Wagner

The arts, a collection of sophisticated human practices defined by creative expression, storytelling and cultural participation, is something everyone can enjoy in some fashion. The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative (HCPLC) is once again o f ering a budget-friendly way for families to enjoy the arts — and escape the summer heat — with the return of the HCPLC Discovery Pass.

Te Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative’s Discovery Pass ofers families free admission to many local attractions.

ue.” Finally, make sure to review your information. Once it has been confirmed, click “Submit This Request” and you will be presented with a confirmation page where you can print out your reservation and send it on to the specified organization. Once that’s done, you’re all set.

Below are just a few of the many offered attractions that accept the Discovery Pass:

The Discovery Pass is a pass that gives families free admission or a tour pass to select local museums and attractions. All you need is a library card. According to Shannon, a librarian at the Bruton Memorial Library in Plant City, the Discovery Pass has “great value for families, kids and adults, and, in my opinion, it is definitely worth it.”

The best part is that reserving a Discovery Pass is easy. Simply go to the HCPLC website at https://hcplc.org/, select “Services” and then click on the “Discovery Pass” box. Next, go to “Reserve a Pass,” look through the calendar and choose a museum or attraction and a date to make a reservation. Once your library card is verified, fill out the “Pass Request” form and click “Contin-

· Tampa Bay History Center: Experience what Tampa was like in the 1920s with the whole family.

· Glazer Children’s Museum: Take your children to a place where they can play, discover and connect to the world around them to develop as lifelong learners and leaders.

· The Tampa Theatre: Learn all of the theater’s secrets, stories and art with its Balcony-to-Backstage Tour.

· American Victory Ship and Museum: Tour nine decks of one of the few fully operational WWII ships in the country and experience an unforgettable voyage of discovery with your family.

For more information about the Discovery Pass, to reserve one and to find other attractions that accept it, visit https://hcplc.org/services/discoverypass.

Alejandra Polanco, DDS

Casey Lynn DMD, MS

Lisa Tackus, Broker/Owner Licensed Real Estate Broker, GRI, PSA

FREEDOM PLAZA RECOGNIZED AS A BEST SENIOR ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY

Freedom Plaza has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a 2024 Best Assisted Living, Best Memory Care and Best Continuing Care Retirement Community. The trusted, data-backed ratings of the best senior living communities across the United States assist older adults and their loved ones in choosing the right community for them.

For its 2024 Best Senior Living ratings, U.S. News rated nearly 3,500 communities on several criteria, including resident and family members’ satisfaction with safety, care, community management and staf, value and other services and amenities provided by the community.

“We are delighted to have been named as one of the best senior living communities in the country in three separate categories,” said Freedom Plaza executive director Angie Roher. “This recognition continues to highlight our commitment in delivering the best-possible care for our residents.”

U.S. News awards the designation of ‘Best Senior Living’ only to those communities that satisfy U.S. News’ statistical assessment of performance on consumer satisfaction surveys administered in the previous two calendar years, reflecting the viewpoints of more than 400,000 residents and family members. Only the highest-rated communities in each care level earned a ‘Best’ rating.

Staf Report

“Best Senior Living reflects U.S. News’ commitment to helping families navigate the important — albeit time-consuming — decision of researching and choosing a senior living community through trusted, data-backed community ratings,” said Sumita Singh, general manager of health at U.S. News. “We are proud to recognize those communities that stand out as ‘Best’ by providing exceptional care and satisfaction, as directly expressed by residents and family members of residents who live and thrive in these communities.”

For more information on theU.S. News Best Senior Living ratings, visit https:// health.usnews.com/best-senior-living or explore Facebook at www.facebook.com/ usnewsandworldreport as well as Instagram, TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) @ usnews using #BestSeniorLiving.

Freedom Plaza is a vibrant Life Care community in Sun City Center set on 140 acres of landscaped grounds. It features a private lake, walking trails and an 18-hole executive golf course and putting green. Freedom Plaza’s pet-friendly community features over 400 independent living residences ranging from studio to one and two-bedroom apartment residences. It also ofers assisted living residences; skilled nursing, including private rehabilitation suites; and memory care. Visit https://freedomplazafl. com/ for more information

SUMMERTIME BRINGS POOL SAFETY INTO FOCUS

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Now that summer is here, Hillsborough County launched Safe Pools Day Tampa Bay, which was aimed at educating families about practicing pool safety while they enjoy swimming this summer. Florida leads the nation in drowning deaths of children 4 years old or younger, and most of the deaths are preventable.

According to Hillsborough County Code Enforcement Director Joe Goss, his staf teamed up with the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace and Plant City and the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County for Safe Pools Day Tampa Bay on May 10. Code enforcement ofcers visited condominium, subdivision, apartment complex and other common-area pools to ensure they meet safety standards, including those outlined in the Hillsborough County Code. Staf looked for appropriate fencing, signage, drain covers, sanitation and more.

Goss also shared other tips for families through the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County and gave the following tips for water safety and how to help prevent pool injuries and drownings.

First, designate a ‘water watcher’ — an adult whose only job is to watch the children in the pool. Water watchers should be rotated about every 10 minutes. In addition, ensure that alarms are installed on any doors and gates leading to an at-home pool, and have a water alarm in the pool that goes of when someone enters the pool.

Goss also strongly encouraged parents to enroll children in swim lessons. Locally, the City of Tampa ofers swim lessons for ages 6 months and older through the American Red Cross. Many local YMCAs also ofer drowning-prevention programs.

“With summer just around the corner, it’s important to ensure that private home swimming pools are safe, secure and sanitary,” said Goss. “To prevent accidental drownings, all swimming pools, hot tubs and spas — regardless of when they were constructed — are required to have the proper fencing and safety barriers installed.”

If a pool enclosure has an access gate, it must be equipped with a self-closing and self-latching locking device.

Homeowners can reduce their safety risk and avoid a citation by checking their functional access gate to ensure it meets the local standards.

A clean swimming pool is a must as well. Pollen, leaves and other organic material can transform a backyard oasis into a murky green lagoon if not properly maintained. Residents should maintain pools and spas year-round and remove standing water pool and spa covers to prevent mosquitoes, bacteria and germs from breeding. If you witness a code violation at any swimming pool in unincorporated Hillsborough County, call code enforcement at 813274-6600. Visit www.tampaymca.org.

Freedom Plaza in Sun City Center was recently recognized as a 2024 Best Assisted Living, Best Memory Care and Best Continuing Care Retirement Community by U.S. News & World Report.

Water safety tips are a priority to keep families safe this summer.

POPULAR SUMMER CLASSICS MOVIE SERIES RETURNS TO THE BIG SCREEN AT TAMPA THEATRE

While

and like watching movies at home, we should be honest and admit that there’s truly nothing better than watching a classic film on a big screen. Here in Tampa, we are exceptionally fortunate to have a real gem of a movie palace like Tampa Theatre.

So, why not set some time aside this summer and plan a trip to downtown to see a classic movie the way they were meant to be seen: inside a cool, dark movie theater?

Jill Witecki with Tampa Theatre said, “Tampa film fans know that when it comes to beloved classics, there is no more authentic way to watch them than in a majestic movie palace.”

Tampa Theatre has ofered their Summer Classics Movie Series for over 30 years.

Witecki said, “For more than three decades, the community has flocked to Tampa Theatre on hot Sunday afternoons to enjoy summer classics as they were meant to be seen: on the big screen, with a bag of fresh popcorn and a cold drink in hand, as a shared, communal experience.”

Now in its 33rd year, Tampa’s longest-running classic movie series is celebrating more than a century of extraordinary filmmaking. The oldest ofering is a collection of silent comedy shorts from the years 1917-29. These films take Tampa Theatre back to its roots of presenting silent films with live musical accompaniment on its original Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ.

Then, there are other films such as The

By Kathy L. Collins

Godfather Part II and Chinatown. Both of these films are celebrating milestone anniversaries.

Witecki said, “For the first time in summer classics history, all of the selections for this year’s series have been named to the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress.”

All of the summer classics will be shown on Sundays at 3 p.m.

Invasion of the Body Snatchers will be shown on June 9. You will not want to miss Notorious on June 16 and Sunset Boulevard on June 23. The Godfather Part II can be seen on June 30.

These are followed by Apollo 13 on July 7 and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid on July 14. Bring the whole family to see The Wizard of Oz on July 21. Do the Right Thing will be shown on July 28.

The month of August starts of with The Princess Bride on August 4, followed by Chinatown on August 11 and Casablanca on August 18. The Summer Classics Movie Series ends with The Silent Clowns on August 25.

Witecki said, “You get to see the silent films exactly as audiences saw them back in the 1920s.” She added, “Tampa Theatre’s artist in residence, Steven Ball, will write and perform an original score for each film. We promise you that the overall experience is the closest thing to time travel you will ever experience.”

For more information and to get tickets, please visit https://tampatheatre.org/.

Adventure Island Opens Newest Attraction

Adventure Island recently opened its newest and highly anticipated attraction, Castaway Falls, which promises guests an unforgettable experience with over 100 interactive elements, including two massive tipping buckets that unleash a torrential downpour of more than 1,300 gallons of water combined. Set within a tropical paradise, Castaway Falls invites guests of all ages to immerse themselves in a watery world of excitement. Castaway Falls is the centerpiece of Adventure Island’s comprehensive revitalization, which includes recent additions such as Shaka-Laka Shores, Rapids Racer, Wahoo Remix slides and the transformed Captain Pete’s and Hang Ten Tiki Bar. These enhancements create a refreshed atmosphere, complete with new lounging areas and cabanas, providing visitors with the ultimate tropical retreat.

Adventure Island is located at 10001 McKinley Dr. in Tampa. For more information, visit https://adventureisland.com/.

TECO To Lower Rates A Second Time Tis Year

state of the real estate market in Hillsborough County. The meeting will take place on Wednesday, June 26, from 8 a.m.-12 Noon at the Cuban Club, located at 2010 N. Avenida Republica de Cuba in Tampa.

New Ruskin Moftt Facility Town Hall Meeting

Moftt is hosting an Ask Us Anything Town Hall about its new Ruskin facility. The meeting will be held at the Lennard High School auditorium, located at 2342 E. Shell Point Rd. in Ruskin, on Thursday, June 20, from 6:30-8 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend, and admission is free. Be ready to ask questions of the expert panelists about the new facility, including when you can start making appointments. Members of the human resources team will be on-site to meet with applicants and discuss open positions.

Hillsborough County Schools Purchases 20 Electric School Buses

The Hillsborough County School Board voted to purchase 20 electric school buses, nine from Thomas Built Buses Inc., nine from Blue Bird Corporation and two from Integrated Coach Corporation.

In January, Tampa Electric Company reduced residential bills by nearly $18 because of a decline in fuel prices and other factors and recently approved a further reduction, this time about $7 based on continued low natural gas prices.

“Tampa Electric is pleased to be in a position to reduce electricity bills again this year,” said Archie Collins, president and CEO of Tampa Electric. “We are happy to provide customers with some welcome relief as the summer’s heat begins.”

Annual State Of Te Market Discussion

A lot has changed in the past year. Hillsborough County Property Appraiser Bob Henriquez will once again gather real estate industry experts to discuss the current and projected

positions are available. If you are interested, email head coach Tony Rodriguez at antonio. rodriguez@hcps.net or text 813-815-0310.

Shavuot Evening Festival And Yizkor Service

The 20 buses are 77 passenger capacity Type-C buses and will serve specific inner-city routes to the district’s underserved communities. The buses should be operational in early 2025, after the necessary training and infrastructure construction (e.g., charging stations) can be completed.

In February, the district was awarded $7.9 million in funding for clean school buses as part of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s first Clean School Bus Program Grants Competition.

The financial impact for the school district in the 2024-25 school year will be $8,414,693, and a projected cost savings of over $4 million with reduced maintenance costs and fuel savings.

To learn more about the Clean School Bus Program, visit www.epa.gov/cleanschoolbus/clean-school-bus-program-awards.

Riverview High School Is Looking For Football Coaches

Riverview High School, located at 11311 Boyette Rd. in Riverview, is looking to add assistant football coaches (no experience necessary, and you do not need to be a teacher) to its staf. All coaching candidates must be willing to commit to a year-round football program. Volunteer and stipend

On Tuesday, June 11, at 7 p.m. Beth Israel will hold a Shavuot evening festival and Yizkor service for the public. Ricki Bauman will lead the festival and service and the B’not Torah class of 2015 will read the Ten Commandments from its Torah scroll. Immediately following the service, Beth Israel will have an ice cream social. Beth Israel is located at 1115 E. Del Webb Blvd. in Sun City Center.

Creative Sparks Summer Camp

Does your child need somewhere to express their creative side this summer? Look no further than the Creative Sparks Summer Camp at Cen-

ter Place Arts & Civic Association, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon. Activities will include storytelling, painting, arts, crafts, games, music and lots of fun. The camp is for ages K-10 and will take place from Monday to Friday, July 15-19, from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Register online at https:// centerplacebrandon.com/ or by calling 813685-8888. If you register before July, the cost is $150. Later registration will cost $175.

Juneteenth Celebration At

Tampa Museum Of Art Commemorate the Tampa Museum of Art’s Juneteenth Cultural Celebration with an engaging, family-friendly experience. On Saturday, June 15, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., the Tampa Museum of Art ofers free admission to its lineup of family-friendly programs in its newly expanded galleries. Prepare for a lively community celebration of this holiday, also known as Freedom Day, with art-making activities, live music and performances, family portraits, food trucks and more. The Tampa Museum of Art is located at 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza in Tampa. Visit https://tampamuseum.org/event/ juneteenth-cultural-celebration-2024/ for tickets and more information.

FOX FIRED PIZZA SERVES

MOUTHWATERING PIZZA

The best kind of pizza is the kind made with love. That is why Fox Fired Pizza, one of the neighborhood’s newest pizza food trucks, has quickly become a fan favorite within the community.

Fox Fired Pizza serves a wide variety of made from scratch to order wood fired pizzas. On top of eight pizzas, garlic balls and cinnamon sugar dessert balls on the standard menu, the truck also ofers three to five specialty pizzas that are always changing. No order is complete without one of the dessert pizzas. From blueberry lemon cream cheese to peanut butter and jelly, whatever the dessert pizza on the menu is, it’s bound to impress.

EVERY WEEKEND

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

mended to call before stopping by to make sure it is still open.

The owners of Fox Fired, Corey and Lindsey Fox, met at the Culinary Institute of America in New York. Since then, the pair have been in the food and beverage industry for over 15 years. After moving to Florida with their two kids, they knew they wanted to do something creative that they could all be a part of.

$1 GOLF FOR KIDS THIS SUMMER AT ACE GOLF RANGES

Fox Fired Pizza makes almost everything from scratch, including the dough, which is hand-kneaded in batches. This makes for deliciously fresh pizza that is perfect for each order.

“I’ve always loved making pizzas, and the sky’s the limit with how creative and detailed you can get with wood-fired pizzas,” said Corey Fox, owner of Fox Fired Pizza.

Fox Fired is open on Thursdays from 3-8 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 4-9:30 p.m. every week. The truck can only serve 40-70 pizzas a day and tends to sell out before closing, so it is recom-

“My two kids can be seen sliding pizza boxes to customers from time to time and my lovely wife swings by on Fridays to help me get through the busiest times of service,” said Corey.

While you can typically find the family-owned and operated food truck stationed in the parking lot at Riverview’s Ace Golf on Boyette Road, Fox Fired can always be hired for event catering. From birthdays or graduation parties to corporate lunches or weddings, pizza is a great choice when feeding a large crew.

Stop by for the next pizza night and pick up one or two of Fox Fired’s fresh pizzas that are guaranteed to be loved by your family.

To stay up to date on menu items and hours, please call at 864-404-1474, visit https://foxfiredpizza.com/ or check it out on Instagram @foxfiredpizza.

Are the kids driving you crazy and playing too many video games this summer? Want to have them do something healthy and learn a lifelong sport? Then look to Ace Golf, which is ofering a $1 summer golf practice program for kids ages 4-15. Every day from June 1 through Saturday, August 31, kids can sign up to receive a $1 small bucket of range balls or a $1 round of miniature golf each day for the whole summer. Kids hit the balls on the practice ranges and miniature golf courses at Bay-area Ace Golf locations. And it’s all just $1 per activity.

“There are a lot of families out there that just can’t aford to put kids in camps, or they just want something productive to fill their summer,” said Bill Place, owner of Ace Golf Ranges and Golf Courses. “We want to help, and hopefully in the process, we may find the next Tiger Woods.” How it works:

• Children may sign up for free at either of two Ace Golf locations in Riverview or Land O’ Lakes.

• Each child receives a daily stamp card for a $1 small bucket or $1 miniature golf each day.

• Each time the child redeems their bucket, they will get a stamp on their card noting the redemption.

• Redeemable from Monday through

Thursday, open until 4 p.m. Not available on Friday, Saturday or Sunday.

• No other purchase is necessary. Kids should bring a golf club with them, or they may rent one.

A parent must accompany all children using the program at all times.

In addition to the $1 bucket or mini golf program, kids may also play golf for $1 when accompanied by a paying parent at Ace Golf’s Plantation Palms Golf Club after 12 Noon every day from June 1 through the end of October.

Ace Golf Range is located at 12910 Boyette Rd. in Riverview (phone: 813 6727750; website: https://ace-golf.com/). It is open daily until 10 p.m. The facility features a lighted golf practice range, miniature golf and batting cages. Ace Golf’s Plantation Palms Golf Club is in Land O’ Lakes (phone: 813 996-4653; website: www.plantationpalms.net). It is open to the public and offers a public championship golf course, an 18-hole miniature golf course, Mulligans Irish Pub, and a banquet/events center. Ace Golf has been family-owned by locals Su Lee and Bill Place since 1993. In addition to the $1 kids program, each location ofers summer golf camps, clinics and private and group golf lessons. For more information, please visit https://ace-golf.com/.

Ace Golf is once again ofering a $1 summer golf practice program for kids.

Opening in 2021, Fox Fired Pizza quickly became a go-to spot for many people. With love in every pizza, the community has enjoyed supporting this small business.

BRINGING ACCESSIBLE EMERGENCY CARE TO THE COMMUNITY

Manatee Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Care Center (ECC) treats more than 80,000 children and adult patients each year. The expanded center is just under 33,000 square feet, making it the largest ECC in the county.

Freestanding Emergency Departments

Manatee Memorial Hospital’s freestanding emergency departments (FED) handle emergencies and are each fully stafed with a doctor onsite 24/7. They can perform CT scans as well as full X-rays, and they all have a comprehensive lab*. With the full services ofered, the FEDs are not urgent care centers but are a part of Manatee Memorial Hospital.

“Manatee County has grown exponentially in recent years, and yet the hospitals are stationary,” said Teresa Rawe, D.O., medical director for emergency medicine at Manatee Memorial. “We make it easier for patients to access emergency care.”

“Typically, our FEDs have a shorter waiting time to be seen,” explained Tammy Sloas, nursing director at Manatee FEDs. “If an admission is necessary, we will transport a patient to the hospital.”

FEDs vs. Urgent Care Centers

Urgent care centers have set hours and treat nonemergency issues. However, most centers don’t have comprehensive labs that can provide answers on-site and are limited in radiology services.

Educating the Community

The American College of Surgeons’ STOP

Staf Report

THE BLEED® program has prepared over 3 million people worldwide on how to stop bleeding in a severely injured person. Manatee Memorial brings this program to the community.

“We are preparing the public to save lives by teaching actions to stop life-threatening bleeding following emergencies and man-made and natural disasters,” said Jill Ruf, who oversees the program with emergency department paramedic Ed Wheat.

Shelly Lucchesi, employee health manager, added, “Being able to tend to a bleeding wound while waiting for EMS to arrive may be the diference between life and death.”

If you’re having a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

For information about locations, visit the hospital’s website at www.manateememorial.com/emergency.

*These emergency departments are part of Manatee Memorial Hospital. They are not urgent care centers. Their services and care are billed at hospital emergency department rates. Wait times may vary.

Physicians are on the medical staf 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 hospital’s website.

LOCAL AUTHOR WANTS TO EMPOWER WOMEN DURING MENOPAUSE

Valrico resident Julie Ashlock is very proud of her first efort in creating a resource tool to help menopausal women thrive through this most important chapter of life and believes that it can be life-changing for so many women. The book is titled The Menopause Manifesto: Empowering Women to Thrive

Ashlock, 58, is someone who has gone through the transition and now lives happily on the other side of menopause.

“I know all too well the struggles and challenges that come with it,” said Ashlock. “I am extremely passionate about helping to educate women through their health journey as naturally as possible.”

Ashlock knows that for so many women the topic of menopause has been a taboo subject, as many health care providers are not trained in the matter and many women don’t feel heard or seen by their doctors.

“For a large majority of us, our mothers/ caregivers never had the conversation with us to know what to expect,” said Ashlock. “I am extending my hand to them because it’s imperative that we have a community to share our experiences and to know that we are not alone.”

The Menopause Manifesto is a resource tool that helps women know that they are not alone and feel validated, seen and heard

By Kelly Wise Valdes

with acknowledgement that their symptoms are real and not something they have to deal with or be told are ‘all in their head.’

“I provide tools and actions that truly will help to reset hormones, restore our sleep cycles, help to regulate moodiness/depression and generate more energy,” said Ashlock. “They will find a community of support.”

Ashlock is also the owner of Jules Body Shoppe. She is a certified master health coach, certified menopause coaching specialist, certified nutritionist, certified personal trainer and licensed massage therapist.

“In addition to coaching women through menopause, I create wellness plans based on your DNA and lifestyle,” said Ashlock. “I eliminate the guesswork from your nutrition, exercise and supplementation.”

Through her connections within the community, Ashlock loves knowing that she is making a diference.

“My favorite part of my job is hearing that my clients feel better, have more energy, eliminate or lower medications and are sleeping more soundly,” said Ashlock.

Jules Body Shoppe is located at 654 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. For more information or to purchase The Menopause Manifesto, visit www.julesbodyshoppe. com/menopause.

Valrico business owner Julie Ashlock has authored her frst book, Te Menopause Manifesto: Empowering Women to Trive.

Manatee Memorial Hospital operates freestanding emergency departments to allow patients easier, convenient access to emergency care.

WHY CHOOSE US?

“Freedom

TK Tech Services Serves

All Your Business Needs

While modern business technology ofers numerous benefits, it also introduces potential challenges. Issues such as inefcient networks, system downtime and security threats can strain your team and hinder productivity. TK Tech Services is the one-stop shop for all your business IT needs. Its certified technicians will deploy cutting-edge managed IT services to enhance security and optimize your systems. It also ofers proactive maintenance and fast 24/7 support to keep your operations running smoothly. For more information, visit its website at https://tktechservices.com/ or call 813-906-0936.

ing lanes with digitally projected games are available as well. To learn more about iSMASH, visit its website at https:// ismashusa.com/locations/fl-tampa/ or call 813-807-6274.

Celebrate With Purple Box Mobile Kids Spa

customer leaves feeling refreshed and renewed.

iSMASH Celebrates With A Ribbon-cutting

iSMASH celebrated joining the Central Hillsborough County Chamber of Commerce with a ribbon-cutting at its location in Brandon at 863 E. Bloomingdale Ave. iSMASH ofers three fun and exciting activities which allow you to blow of steam in a totally safe space. Along with rage rooms that can accommodate groups up to 15 people, iSMASH also has a variety of smash session packages. Glow-in-the-dark splatter paint experiences and axe-throw-

Let’s celebrate! Purple Box Mobile Kids Spa believes that you are never too young to start pampering yourself. Step on board its luxurious mobile kids spa for a unique experience that comes to you. Its variety of spa party packages are perfect for all celebrations and serve ages 4-14; they include everything you need to host the perfect celebration. With such things as mini manis and pedis, glittery makeup, facials, karaoke, a photo booth and snacks, there is a package for everyone. Visit its website at www.purpleboxmobile.com or call 813557-8179 for more information.

Mira Med Spa

Mira Med Spa (MMS) is an upscale spa boutique which prides itself on providing high-quality services while ensuring every

Dr. Jaime Baquero recently joined the BayCare Medical Group Gastroenterology ofce in Riverview.

Owner Lisa Hart is a medical aesthetician and master trainer. Located at 1110 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico, MMS believes that looking and feeling your best should go hand in hand and creates unique skin care routines that are tailored for each individual. Along with providing skin care, other services for lashes and the body are ofered, including lash extensions and massages. For more information, visit its website at www.miramedspa.com.

Dr. Jaime Baquero Joins BayCare Medical Group

Jaime Baquero, MD, has joined the BayCare Medical Group Gastroenterology ofce at 10141 Big Bend Rd., Ste. 206 in Riverview. Dr. Baquero is afliated with St. Joseph’s Hospital-South and is board-certified in gastroenterology, speaks Spanish and treats adult patients. He specializes in general gastroenterology, colon cancer screening, esophageal disorders and

colonoscopy and endoscopy procedures. Call 813-3971274 to make an appointment with Dr. Baquero.

Let Tampa Lifestyle Management Co. Help You To Live Your Best

Life

Selena Stamm is the owner of Tampa Lifestyle Management Co. As a local personal assisting company, its goal is to help clients get back to living their best life as their best selves by assisting with household management, organization, and moving services.

Stamm’s transition from realtor to owning a lifestyle management company was not merely a career shift; it was a response to a growing need she observed as a community resident and as a military spouse of nearly two decades. For more information about Tampa Lifestyle Management Co., call 813-444-5300 or visit https://thelifestylemanagement.co/about-us-tampa/.

ICI Homes Announces Expansion To Waterset Community Waterset, developed by Brookfield Properties, has announced ICI Homes will be joining the list of seven established, award-winning builders in the highly desired, master-planned community. ICI Homes, ranked among the top 100 home builders in the

IRON ROCK INSURANCE CELEBRATES FOUR YEARS IN BUSINESS

At the core, Iron Rock Insurance is a team of agents specializing in providing quality protection for its clients and their families.

With its coverage, clients can rest assured that their loved ones and their possessions will be kept safe. Iron Rock Insurance ofers a wide range of insurance products and unparalleled customer support when you need it the most. It can provide that extra layer of protection to ease its clients’ minds.

“Iron Rock Insurance began in June 2020 during the middle of the pandemic,” said Iron Rock Insurance managing partner Lisa Hast. “I had worked in another agency for 37 years and I made the decision that I wanted something that was diferent. I wanted something that was mine. I built my way with the technology, processes, carriers and stafng. We have grown from zero to be quite a player in the local insurance independent agencies.”

Hast and her team are excited to be celebrating Iron Rock Insurance’s four-year anniversary.

“It feels absolutely amazing,” Hast said. “We started with zero and a wing and a prayer. Currently, we have 11 employees, four agents, three in training and four customer service reps. When I quit my job, I was 53 years old with no plan B, only plan A, so it had to work.”

Hast is also very proud of Iron Rock Insurance’s CARE program.

By Libby Hopkins

“CARE is creating remarkable experience,” Hast said. “Service is our number one priority. In our world today, it seems no one wants to help get your business handled. Jesse Ackerman and I have built and developed quite the team. We do everything we can to make the insurance process as easy as possible. Insurance is hard right now in Florida, so people really need assistance in navigating the madness of cancellations and rate increases.”

If you ask Hast what makes Iron Rock Insurance diferent from other insurance companies, she will tell you that it’s all about family.

“We are truly a family business,” Hast said. “We have gone from just my daughter and me to adding my husband, Jason Hast, as an agent and my two daughtersin-law, Kate Norberg and Katie Kinder, to agent training. We love helping customers review their coverage, making sure they get the best price but also balancing a review of their coverage and educating them to make sure they understand what they are buying.”

If you would like to learn more about Iron Rock Insurance, you can visit its website at www.ironrockins.com or call for a quote at 813-213-9600. Its ofce is located at 400 Frandorson Circle, Ste. 103 in Apollo Beach.

Why Are My Property Taxes Going Up?

By Bob “Coach” Henriquez

As a Hillsborough County native and lifelong resident of Tampa, I feel particularly honored to have been elected to the ofce of Hillsborough County Property Appraiser for three consecutive terms. During this time, I have come to know a great many of you who receive your annual Notice of Proposed Property Taxes from my ofce each August. Whether it’s at a cofee shop or community gathering, people often joke to me, “Hey Bob, you’re the guy who raised my taxes.”

While the Property Appraiser is not the county entity that raises or collects taxes, it does remind me there are many people who are either unsure about the services my ofce provides property owners or have misconceptions regarding my ofce’s statutory duties.

Frequently, people like to see their property values increase –especially when they are looking to sell their home – but not on the day they receive that envelope with their annual Notice of Proposed Property Taxes, commonly known as the “TRIM (Truth in Millage)” notice. So, as my ofce prepares to mail out this year’s notices to all property owners in the county, let me explain a few items that may help you understand exactly what we do and how we may even help you save money.

For starters, the Property Appraiser’s Ofce does not directly raise or lower your taxes. Our primary statutory responsibility is quite simple: annually assess all properties in Hillsborough County to their full market value. But with more than a half million parcels in Hillsborough County, that’s not an easy task.

The methods by which the Property Appraiser’s Ofce determines a property’s market value goes well beyond what your neighbor sold their house for, or what a real estate agent or a website might say your property is worth. My ofce compares properties in a much larger and more complex universe, using highly regulated computer assisted mass appraisal techniques that establish the market value of the property as of January 1st of each year.

It’s important to note the final sale price of a home usually includes many fees, including assorted closing costs, that are not part of the full market value that the Property Appraiser’s Ofce is seeking to determine. Also, if you have experienced an increase in your monthly mortgage payment, it doesn’t necessarily mean it was a result of your property taxes increasing.

Most people pay their property taxes as part of an escrow account that is included in their monthly mortgage payment. And in Florida, where homeowners’ insurance has recently topped the list for the most expensive rates in the nation, insurance is THE most rapidly increasing portion of most homeowners’ mortgage payment.

This is where applying for homestead exemption through my ofce is vitally important. If your property is granted a homestead exemption, state law says the taxed value of your property cannot increase by more than 3% a year – even if your property’s market value has increased by double digits.

Many recent home buyers are surprised to see their tax bill jump significantly when compared to what the home’s prior owner was paying. This increase in taxes usually occurs because the property’s previous owner, through many years of having the benefit of a homestead exemption on the property, had built a large assessment limitation on their annual tax bill. This benefit is commonly known as “Save Our Homes” assessment limitation.

Finally, the rate that your property is taxed is set by your elected ofcials at the city and county level, as well as other taxing authorities, like the school board, and not by the Property Appraiser’s Ofce. Set by those taxing authorities, the “millage rate” is the easiest benchmark citizens can look at to understand why they pay the taxes they do. The millage rate is how much a home is taxed per $1,000 in value. As property values increase, so do the taxes.

ABOUT OUR CAMPS

With over 25 dif erent camp options throughout the Tampa YMCA area, there’s something for every camper to enjoy! From art and gymnastics to ziplining and splashing in our pools EVERY DAY, the Y is the ultimate summer destination. Summer Camp starts May 28th! Register at tampaymca.org/letscamp

I hope this brief outline has helped you to clearly identify the Hillsborough County Property Appraiser Ofce’s basic responsibilities and duties under state law. As always, we are here to help you understand the services we provide – including applying for homestead exemption – and to answer any questions you may have. Please feel free to contact our ofce at 813-272-6100 or visit our website at hcpafl.org.

Bob “Coach” Henriquez

Hillsborough County Property Appraiser

Iron Rock Insurance began in June 2020 during the middle of the pandemic.

DIVE INTO ADVENTURE ISLAND, FEATURING ALL-NEW CASTAWAY FALLS, NEW WAVE POOL AND FAN-FAVORITE ISLAND NIGHTS

Summer is here, and Adventure Island, Tampa’s island paradise, is the ultimate summer destination, featuring the recent debut of the all-new Castaway Falls, a new wave pool and the much-anticipated return of the fan-favorite Island Nights.

Guests of all ages are invited to dive into a world of excitement and relaxation with thrilling new attractions and unforgettable evening events that promise to make this summer the best one yet.

“Summer is an exciting time at Adventure Island,” said Philip Boykin, vice president of Adventure Island. “From our thrilling attractions to our serene tropical escapes, there are plenty of opportunities to choose your own adventure this summer at Adventure Island.”

Set within a tropical paradise, Castaway Falls invites guests of all ages to immerse themselves in a watery world of excitement. This exhilarating attraction is the centerpiece of Adventure Island’s comprehensive revitalization, which also includes recent additions such as Shaka-Laka Shores, Rapids Racer, Wahoo Remix slides and the transformed Captain Pete’s and Hang Ten Tiki Bar. These enhancements create a refreshed atmosphere, complete

Staf Report

with new lounging areas and cabanas, providing visitors with the ultimate tropical retreat.

Guests can splash all day and into the night with the return of Island Nights, featuring extended park hours until 8 p.m. every Friday in July. Guests can capture fun selfies with a 360-degree camera, enjoy lively parties with stilt performers and groove to the beats of dynamic DJs on select nights. This event ofers thrilling entertainment and a family-friendly dance party suitable for all ages.

An Adventure Island Annual Pass is the best way to enjoy an entire year of family fun, thrilling attractions and exciting seasonal events. Categorized in easy-to-use tiers, options provide guests with unlimited, year-round admission and unbeatable benefits, including free parking, in-park discounts, monthly rewards and payments starting as low as $10.50 per month.

Located across the street from Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Adventure Island is Tampa Bay’s premier water park, featuring a combination of exhilarating water slides and tropical, tranquil surroundings. Guests can dig their toes into the sand or relax in lounge chairs or a private cabana. For more information, visit https:// adventureisland.com/.

Trilling water slides await, such as Rapids Racer, Wahoo Remix, Solar Vortex, Vanish Point, Caribbean Corkscrew, Colossal Curl, waterfalls, a 17,000-square-foot wave pool, a children’s zone and other family attractions, including the all-new Castaway Falls.

CHAMPAGNE AESTHETICS OFFERS PERSONALIZED SKIN CARE SERVICES

Laurie Champagne-Bumberg, owner of Champagne Aesthetics, has always had an interest in physiology so a career in aesthetics was a clear decision. When Champagne-Bumberg opened Champagne Aesthetics in August 2021, she knew she was where she belonged.

“What I love most about owning an aesthetics practice is the impact it allows me to have on people’s lives,” said Champagne-Bumberg. “It is rewarding to help people feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin. Whether it’s through results-driven treatments or simply being a supportive presence during their journey, seeing the positive transformation in my clients is really cool. Being able to boost confidence, ofer efective solutions and create meaningful relationships with clients is what truly makes this profession fulfilling for me.”

What sets Champagne-Bumberg as an aesthetician and provider is her commitment to personalized care and education.

“I prioritize understanding my client’s individual concerns and goals through a thorough initial consultation,” said Champagne-Bumberg. “By tailoring treatment plans to each individual, I ensure that they receive the most efective care possible. I believe in the power of education as a tool for empowerment. I take the time to educate my clients about their skin, explaining not only what treatments we’re implementing but also why they’re beneficial and how

By Kelly Wise Valdes

they align with their skin care goals.”

The best advice Champagne-Bumberg ofers to someone looking to take care of their skin is to approach it as an investment in themselves.

“Your skin is not only a reflection of your health, but it also plays a significant role in your self-confidence and overall well-being,” said Champagne-Bumberg. “Choose a skin care provider you trust. Look for someone with experience, is continually investing in education and has a reputation for delivering results.”

Champagne Aesthetics is ofering a Lunchtime Glo2Facial™ for $199 during June, July and August to new clients. Glo2Facial is an advanced skin care treatment that combines Oxfoliation™ and targeted serum application to rejuvenate and brighten the skin. It utilizes oxygen therapy to deliver nutrient rich ingredients deep into the skin, resulting in a glowing complexion.

Regardless of your beauty budget, Champagne-Bumberg will work to create a successful skin care plan tailored to individual needs and goals. “By prioritizing consistency and combining medical-grade products with targeted treatments, we can achieve lasting improvements in your skin’s appearance and health.”

Champagne Aesthetics is located at 214 S. MacDill Ave. in Tampa and 16637 FishHawk Blvd., Ste. 102 in Lithia. Call 813-4442441 or visit www.hydrafacialtampa.com.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY REPUBLICANS

ANNOUNCE LINCOLN DAY DINNER HONORING FORMER GOVERNOR BOB MARTINEZ

Carmen Edmonds, chair of the Republican Party of Hillsborough County, has announced that the party will hold its annual Lincoln Day Dinner on Saturday, June 15. The Lincoln Day Dinner is the party’s premier fundraising event. This year, the ‘Lincoln DayFamily, Faith & Freedom Dinner’ will once again be held at The Regent, located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. The doors open at 4:30 p.m., the VIP reception starts at 5 p.m. and the program begins at 6 p.m.

Edmonds stated: “I am proud to announce that this year we will be honoring former Florida Governor Bob Martinez, a Tampa native who served the state of Florida, most notably as a two-term mayor of Tampa and as the first governor of Florida of Spanish descent.”

Martinez served as mayor from 1979 to 1986 and as governor from 1987 to 1991.

In keeping with its Republican values and beliefs of family, faith and freedom, the speakers for the evening will include Congresswoman Laurel Lee, who represents

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Florida’s 15th Congressional District. The 15th District encompasses Eastern Hillsborough County, including Thonotosassa, Plant City and part of Brandon, as well as parts of Pasco and Polk counties. Also speaking will be Florida State Senator Blaise Ingoglia, 13th Judicial Circuit State Attorney Suzy Lopez and Pastor Alfred Johnson, founder and president of the Faith Action Ministry Alliance. Due to the nature of the event this year honoring Martinez, there will be no formal keynote speaker, as each speaker has much to share with those in attendance.

The master of ceremonies for the evening will be Brian Burns, owner and publisher of the Tampa Free Press, and former publisher of The Tampa Tribune

Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased by going to the party’s website at www.hillsborough.gop. This event benefits the Republican Party of Hillsborough County and is not a fundraiser for any of the speakers.

Laurie Champagne-Bumberg.

Bob Martinez, former Tampa mayor and governor of Florida, will be speaking at the Hillsborough County Republican Party’s Lincoln Day Dinner.

CUSTOM HAIR OFFERS SOLUTIONS AND PERSONAL APPOINTMENTS

Men and women generally lose 50-100 hairs a day. This shedding is unnoticeable because new hair is growing in at the same time. However, millions of Americans experience noticeable hair loss (alopecia areata) due to hormonal changes, medical conditions, aging or a result of heredity. Regardless of the cause, hair loss can be mentally and emotionally devastating.

Custom Hair, with three locations in the Tampa Bay area, including one in Brandon, specializes in finding nonsurgical hair replacement solutions for individuals with hair loss.

Lori Younkman, co-owner of Custom Hair with her husband, Dan Younkman, understands firsthand how hair loss can have an impact on a woman’s self-esteem. Lori’s lifelong struggle with thin hair ended when she decided on permanent hair replacement. She is passionate about solving hair loss challenges, especially for women.

Custom Hair ofers the finest quality wigs and hair replacement for men, women and children. What sets it apart from other businesses in the industry is its customer service and dedication to women’s hair replacement. Clients who decide on wigs or toppers (a hairpiece attached to one’s scalp and designed to blend in with natural hair) get a professional fit; education for care of the products; and options for cut, styling and col-

By Jane Owen

or. Clients who choose permanent-bonded hair are attended to by a professional stylist in a private studio. Their hair solution is designed to fit, customized with a cut and color.

Theresa, a client from Tampa, said Custom Hair’s personal attention makes the diference.

“I’m so grateful I found Custom Hair Tampa. I’ve had alopecia for 19 years. Until three years ago, I was ordering my pieces of the internet, trying to ‘do it myself.’ I was finding it increasingly frustrating to guess how the color and style would look on me once it arrived in the mail,” Theresa said.

Lori said Custom Hair requires appointments because hair solutions are personal. She added, “There’s no pressure. We ofer options and solutions.”

Edwin, another Tampa client, found that Custom Hair relieved his frustrations.

“After 60 years of transplants, hair fibers, etc., I just got frustrated with the whole process. Not only did they listen attentively to what I was hoping to achieve, they also went above and beyond to ensure that I felt comfortable and confident throughout the entire process,” Edwin said.

Custom Hair of Brandon is located at 117 N. Kings Ave. To learn more about Custom Hair, visit https://customhairtampabay.com/.

PLANS FOR FIRST FAMILY JULY 4TH FESTIVAL AT COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS: MUSIC, CONTESTS, DRONES & MORE

Get ready to immerse yourself in a day of patriotic revelry as Hillsborough County Fairgrounds unveils plans for its inaugural July 4th festival, entitled Catch the Spirit & Celebrate America, presented by Odiorne Insurance. Admission is free for this community extravaganza, which promises a day packed with fantastic food, exciting activities, engaging contests and live entertainment, culminating in a breathtaking, patriotic drone show after sunset. Gates open at 1 p.m. for this family-friendly event, with parking available at $10 per vehicle.

A watermelon-eating contest is just one of many activities planned for the fun-flled July 4th Catch the Spirit & Celebrate America festival at the County Fairgrounds.

“Hosting a July 4th festival is a natural fit for the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds,” said fair manager Suzanne Holcomb. “By expanding our roster of self-produced events, the Fairgrounds is becoming the go-to venue for family-friendly activities throughout the year.”

An array of interactive activities will fill the afternoon, including a charming pet parade and costume contest, the adorable Little Miss and Mr. Firecracker competition and watermelon-eating challenges. The Ridge Country Band takes the stage in the Entertainment Pavilion at 3 p.m.,

and the Eric Von Band continues the toe-tapping beats beginning at 6:30 p.m. Young ones can have a blast petting and feeding farm animals and sliding down inflatables in the kids’ zone, while adults can unwind with a refreshing beverage at one of the beer tents. Fans can explore craft vendors, admire the antique car show and discover organizational displays throughout the day.

The evening culminates with a one-of-a-kind, patriotic drone show beginning at 9 p.m. Produced by Sky Elements Drone Shows, the leading provider of drone light shows in the U.S., this sensory-friendly spectacle features 150 drones choreographed to stirring marches and iconic American music, providing a perfect celebration for all. Catch the Spirit & Celebrate America is part of a full day of activities in the Brandon area, kicking of with the annual Fourth of July parade at 10 a.m. hosted by the Greater Brandon Action Network. The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds are located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover. Visit https://hillsboroughcountyfair.com/ for the complete schedule of events, contest applications and more information.

Hair stylist Melissa styling a client’s permanent hair replacement.

GET THE DIRT:

HURRICANE SEASON IS HEADING OUR WAY

Hurricane season starts on June 1. The time to put your hurricane preparation plan together is now. This way, you can minimize issues during and after the storm.

An important first step is to walk around your house, lanai, porch and landscape. Identify what can become flying objects in strong winds. Think about flowerpots, bird feeders, lawn furniture, plant hangers, garden hoses, metal yard art and much more.

BY LYNN BARBER, URBAN HORTICULTURE AGENT

The second step is to implement your ‘relocation’ strategy. What items can be relocated to your garage, storage shed, inside your home or possibly under or behind shrubs near your house? If you have potted plants on your front porch, you could lay them down horizontally behind the shrubs. If you stand the pots upright, they will fill with rainwater that, over a few days, could damage the plant. Now that you have identified what can be moved, start the relocation process. It may well take more time than you anticipate, so starting sooner than later is better.

Purchasing the materials you need to protect your home is the third step. If you have several doors on your lanai, consider purchasing large sections of heavy-duty plastic and bags of mulch

to absorb rainwater. Duct-tape the heavy-duty plastic to your sliding glass and other doors leaving space if there is a drain by the doors. You do not want to cover the drain. Place the bags of mulch on top of the plastic. Even though the mulch is in a bag, it can absorb rainwater. If you have a drain between the screened lanai and covered area, stack bags of mulch on the house side of the drain. The benefit of using bags of mulch versus sandbags is that you can reuse the mulch in your landscape beds after hurricane season.

Another important detail is to remove dead trees and branches. If you are not able to do that yourself, hire an arborist to evaluate the situation and make recommendations. Safety first!

If you have a debris pile, put the yard waste in garbage cans for weekly pickup. Act now so your landscape debris is not at the end of your driveway when high winds arrive. A pile of debris can also end up in the stormwater drain, which can become clogged.

Keep an eye on the water level in your swimming pool. If the water level is above the recommended level, drain water to the recommended level. Be safe!

SURPRISING FRIENDSHIPS MADE AT BOYETTE SPRINGS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

By Jane Owen

On a spring day in April, a merging of fiction and real life played out at Boyette Springs Elementary School. Amiya Stone, a fourth grader in Hillsborough County Public Schools’ Hospital Homebound and Homebased Program, visited a classroom of students at Boyette Springs. The visit was more than a field trip; it was the beginning of friendships.

The newly found friendships are a result of a beautiful turn of events. Amiya and her teacher, Tara Horn, were reading Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper. Horn’s friend, Amanda Allen, an ESE (exceptional student education) specialist at Boyette Springs, recognized an opportunity of connection. The students within Boyette Springs’ Center for Gifted Studies were doing a novel study on Out of My Mind — the same book Amiya was reading. Boyette’s Center for Gifted Studies, led by teachers Velena Hartwell and Christine Schreck.

Amiya is a brilliant fourth grader. Her visit to Boyette Springs was her first time in a school setting. Amiya has spinal muscular atrophy. She uses a wheelchair for mobility and communicates using a speech-generating device that is activated by signals she sends with her eyes. The eye gaze technology of Tobii Dynavox gives her the ability to

interact with others.

Amiya loves science. She likes pink and purple. She loves getting her nails done but she does not like country music. On April 26, she talked with kids at school about her likes and dislikes.

“Amiya got to broaden her experiences but so did those students,” Horn said.

Amiya’s mom, Kristina Arvidson, was thrilled with the warm welcome Amiya had at Boyette Springs.

Hartwell said it was an incredibly powerful experience for her students.

“They were amazed that technology allowed Amiya to communicate using her eyes and she was able to ask questions of them also. They developed such a strong sense of friendship in that short visit that they wanted to include her in our weekly activities,” Hartwell said.

Draper emailed her delight hearing about Amiya’s visit to school.

“This is absolutely wonderful. Real life and fiction meeting and merging. I’m so glad that Out of My Mind had a positive impact,” Draper said.

Visit www.hillsboroughschools.org/hhb. To read a summary of Out of My Mind or buy it, visit www.sharondraper.com/library/ out-of-my-mind.

Amiya Stone, a student in Hillsborough County Public Schools’ Hospital Homebound and Homebased Program, recently connected in person with students at Boyette Springs Elementary over a novel study of Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper.

GROWING POPULATION CALLS FOR

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

As Hillsborough County continues to grow, so does the need for development, including things like grocery stores, health care facilities and even emergency services.

Recognizing the rising demand for emergency response, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue (HCFR) has introduced five additional reserve ambulances, each sta f ed with a three-person crew, to operate during peak hours of need. This strategic move aims to enhance response times and ensure the community receives timely medical assistance.

With the rapid population growth, HCFR’s fi rst responders are experiencing increasing strain, often responding to up to 20 medical calls per shift in some of the county’s busiest neighborhoods. Two-thirds of the ambulances in Hillsborough County are frequently operating at unsustainable levels of utilization, causing delays in response times and making it more challenging to serve the community e f ectively.

“The new peak-hour ambulance initiative already is impacting the communities with the highest daily call volume,” said Robert Herrin, public safety information section chief for Hillsborough County. “The peak ambulances have alleviated the call volume for the primary units in their respective areas, allowing those units to remain available longer in their fi rst alarm districts.”

While HCFR has not yet faced these challenges, the increase in demand causes a risk of fatigue and burnout among the overworked fi rst responders, potentially leading to retention issues within the department. The introduction of additional ambulances serves as a proactive measure to prevent these issues and maintain a high level of service.

“The crews that work these 12-hour shifts at the busiest times of day have reported that the peak-hour shifts are busy with a goal of helping Hillsborough County Fire Rescue shorten response times in some of the busiest communities in the county,” said Herrin.

Using data and analytics, Hillsborough County determined where the extra ambulances could best alleviate the strain on existing crews. Each peak-hour ambulance is assigned a 12-hour shift in the areas with the highest need, with operations having started on May 1.

The implementation of these additional reserve ambulances shows Hillsborough County’s commitment to adapting to its growing population and ensuring the well-being of its residents. By addressing the demands for emergency services, the county is taking important steps to maintain e f cient and e f ective response times in order to protect the health and safety of the community.

Hillsborough County Fire Rescue is committed to doing what it takes in order to help to community stay safe.

It’s tax refund season, and with extra money in their pockets, people are out buying new and used vehicles. The sta f at Riverview Auto Tag & Title (RATT) has some tips to keep area residents from becoming victims of automobile title fraud.

TIPS TO AVOID AUTOMOBILE TITLE FRAUD

Florida ranked thirdworst in the nation for automobile-related fraud in 2020, according to a study by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). RATT owner Jordan Wasdon said her sta f has seen a noticeable increase in title fraud over the past few years.

Title fraud occurs when a person alters a vehicle title to misrepresent the true condition of a vehicle or provides false information to obtain a vehicle title, including forgery.

Wasdon said she has seen it all, from bleached-out titles to altered vehicle identification numbers (VIN).

“We want to make people aware that this is going on and let people know what look for,” she said, adding, “or they can just call us or bring it in and we can check if it is a valid title.”

Wasdon said consumers can look for misspellings or blurred numbers on the document or areas where it has been erased or bleached.

She advised that consumers should

By Sharon Still

make sure the VIN on the title matches the VIN on the vehicle, as well as make sure the seller’s information matches.

“Get photos of IDs,” she added.

Unfortunately, Wasdon explained, anyone can get a dealer’s license, and criminals are getting smarter.

“Stricter laws or requiring notarized titles would help,” she said.

Also beware of people in the DMV parking lot o f ering to help you or people working for tips, such as o f ering to wait in line for you.

“Riverview Auto Tag & Title has years of expertise in the industry, and we understand that navigating vehicle registration and title transfers can be a complex and time-consuming task,” Wasdon said. “That is why we are here to simplify the experience for you.”

If you suspect you have become a victim of title or registration fraud, report it to the DMV immediately by completing and submitting form HSMV 80122 and supporting documents available at www. flhsmv.gov.

Riverview Auto Tag & Title is located at 7423 U.S. 301 S. by Silver Ring Cafe. Its hours are 7 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, visit www. riverviewautotag.com, call 813-3744448 or become a fan on Facebook.

With summertime just around the corner, keeping your pool clean and refreshing is more important than ever.

Gregory Ennis and Travis Larson of America’s

America’s Swimming Pool Company (ASP), the newest pool service company, opened in SouthShore in February and is excited to help community members get their pools ready for swimming season and stay ready all year long with regular services.

ASP ofers a two-tier weekly maintenance, including pool cleaning and maintenance of the chemicals, as well as repairs, equipment upgrades and renovations such as refinishing and retiling pools. While summer might be the most important time for your pool to be swim ready, living in Florida means pools need regular maintenance. ASP ofers year-round maintenance and cleaning to keep pools ready to go whenever the weather is warm.

“In the summer, it’s important to understand all the demands on your pool’s chlorine and maintain a residual to prevent algae from debris, UV from the sun and bather load,” said Travis Larson, owner of the SouthShore ASP location. “In the winter, the cooler temperatures help to mitigate the algae growth; however, it presents other challenges, as lower temperatures do afect the overall water balance.”

Larson recently retired from 20 years

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

of service in the Navy as a submarine ofcer, which included jobs like being an engineer on a nuclear-powered submarine, being an executive ofcer and being part of the U.S. Special Operations Command. Because of this experience, Larson brings years of knowledge in engineering, piping and electrical repairs and water chemistry to ASP.

“I opened ASP because I wanted to connect with my community, provide a service that has historically lacked a professional approach and the opportunity to work outdoors,” said Larson.

ASP takes pride in not only helping pool owners keep their pools swim ready but also striving to help the community and the world through supporting organizations. On top of being proud sponsors of Apollo Beach Elementary, ASP is partnered with OneWorld Health to provide clean water to health care settings globally through the ‘Clean Water Matters’ campaign. Water chemistry, especially for pools, is a complex process, and mistakes can easily happen when maintaining a home pool. The easiest way to avoid damage to the water quality is to rely on professionals who understand and can maintain the balance.

For information, visit www.asppoolco. com/south-shore-fl/ or call the ofce at 813-641-4936.

FINANCIAL FOCUS

TERM VS. PERM: WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

If you’ve been thinking about life insurance, especially if you have family, loved ones, or anyone who depends on you fnancially, you might be curious about the diferent kinds of policies available. Which type is right for you?

Essentially, you can look at two main categories of life insurance: term and permanent.

Term insurance is a pay-as-you-go option that covers a specifc amount of time, usually 20 years or fewer. Term insurance benefts are paid to your benefciaries free of federal income taxes if you pass away during the coverage period, but there’s no opportunity to build cash value.

Permanent insurance, such as whole life or universal life, ofers coverage for as long as you pay the premiums, and in addition to providing a tax-free death beneft, also ofers a chance to build equity, or cash value, on a tax-deferred basis.

When determining which type of insurance is appropriate for your needs, you’ll want to consider these factors:

• Cost – Term insurance is generally afordable for most people, which is why it may be particularly suitable for parents and young adults who may be at the beginning of their careers. Permanent insurance is typically more expensive, largely because it is meant to last for one’s lifetime and some of the premiums go toward building cash value in the policy and paying for other features. Generally, the younger and healthier you are when you purchase permanent insurance, the lower your rates will be.

• Length of time insurance is needed – If you think you will only need life insurance for a certain period — perhaps until your children are grown — you might lean toward term insurance. If you feel the need for life insurance for other goals throughout your

lifetime, for whatever reason — you might have a special needs child, or perhaps you want to use your policy to help pay for retirement, or you wish to include the policy as part of your legacy and estate plans — you may want to consider some type of permanent insurance.

• Investment preferences – You may have heard the phrase “buy term and invest the diference.” Essentially, this just means that an investor could purchase low-cost term insurance, and then invest the money that was saved by not getting permanent insurance. This can be a valuable strategy in some situations, but people often don’t actually invest the diference. A permanent insurance policy, through the payment of premiums, may result in a steady buildup of cash value or continued contributions to the policy’s investment components. For many people, this discipline is helpful.

• Future insurability – If you have health issues, it could become difcult to get permanent insurance after you’ve reached the end of a term insurance policy. (Some term insurance policies do ofer the opportunity to convert to permanent coverage, usually without the need for a medical exam.) You could avoid this potential problem by purchasing permanent insurance when you are still young and healthy. Ultimately, you will need to weigh the various factors involved in the permanent-versus-term decision. You also might beneft from consulting a fnancial professional, who can evaluate which type of insurance is most appropriate for your situation. But whether it’s term or permanent, make sure you have the coverage you need to protect yourself and your loved ones.

This article was written by Edward Jones for

April

Te Riverview Auto Tag and Title (RATT) mascot wearing a RATT T-shirt.

Amy and Travis Larson of America’s Swimming Pool Company in SouthShore.

Swimming Pool Company in SouthShore.

Injuries Making It Hard to Keep Up with the Grandkids?

Whether it’s on the basketball court or the playground, don’t let pain stop you from enjoying time with the younger generation.

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

• Access 24/7

• On-site physician 24/7

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

• 10,884 square feet

HELPING HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES SUCCESSFULLY NAVIGATE THE COLLEGE SELECTION PROCESS

By Libby Hopkins

THE EASTERN HILLSBOROUGH COMMUNITY BAND WILL PERFORM PATRIOTIC CONCERT

LeCompte College Prep was founded in 2020 to help high school students and their families successfully navigate the college and career selection process.

“I always loved working with teens in the classroom and helping coach them on their postsecondary career and college goals,” said owner and founder Patty LeCompte.

“Upon my retirement, I couldn’t let that passion fade away. I started small, working with only a handful of virtual clients during the pandemic, and I’m grateful now to have clients from all around Tampa Bay and across the country.”

LeCompte has been a classroom teacher at the high school, community college and university levels. She earned a master’s in educational leadership and is licensed as a high school principal, career and tech/ vocational school director and teacher of multiple subjects.

“I’m a retired high school and college educator with decades of experience working with teens and adults,” LeCompte said. “My journey of teaching students started shortly after my own high school graduation in New York. I was a classroom teacher there and have now long worked with students across state lines in DECA, a high school leadership organization.”

How LeCompte College Prep works is families can meet with LeCompte for a

free 30-minute consultation which can be scheduled on her website, www.lecomptecollegeprep.com, or via email at patty@ lecomptecollegeprep. com, as well as a direct call at 813-599-5044.

“Stress in the college admissions process can be relative to how much efort you put in,” LeCompte said. “Your goals need to align with how much time, energy and commitment you put into the process. Our plan is to help you create a realistic and balanced list of best-fit colleges that match you academically, socially and financially. The earlier you start the process, the more aspects we can strategically advise and prepare you for.”

The most gratifying experience for a college consultant is coaching a student and nurturing their growth as they work toward and achieve their goals.

“Having the opportunity to work oneon-one with teens as they navigate these important decisions can be very fulfilling,” LeCompte said. “It’s especially great working with students who start the process in eighth grade, as we can work together on creating a plan for success in high school.”

If you’d like to learn more about LeCompte College Prep or making future college plans, you can visit the website directly at www.lecomptecollegeprep.com

By Lily Belcher

The Eastern Hillsborough Community Band will perform a concert at St. Stephen Catholic Church ahead of the Fourth of July.

The concert, to be held on Friday, June 28, beginning at 7 p.m., will feature patriotic music from the band, whose members range from amateurs to professional musicians.

St. Stephen Deacon and director of music Mike Sweeney said the church was excited to welcome the band back after their Christmas concert at the church.

“From our perspective at St. Stephen, we’re very excited to have the band back at St. Stephen,” Sweeney said. “…We estimated that 1,000 people attended that concert, one of the largest audiences the band has ever had.”

Six St. Stephen parishioners are members of the Eastern Hillsborough Community Band.

“It’s nice for them to be able to take part in the concert in their own spiritual home,” Sweeney said.

There are many former military members at St. Stephen as well, so Sweeney expects the patriotic music will attract them to the concert.

“All of the branches of the military will hear music connected to their branch,” he said.

The band will perform their patriotic concert at New Hope Church in Brandon on Thursday, June 27, at 7 p.m. as well.

The Eastern Hillsborough Community Band was founded in 2009 as an all-volunteer band. Since growing from 10 members to nearly 80 members now, the band has become a nonprofit organization located out of Brandon. The band performs a mix of music, such as marches, contemporary and jazz, in the Tampa Bay area.

The band was founded to foster a love for music while entertaining and inspiring its audience.

“Members are not required to ‘pay to play,’” according to the band’s website. “Instead, we are funded by our generous donors and proceeds from our concerts.”

To join the band, musicians with the ability to read music and with experience from their high school band can visit its website and fill out the form under the “Join the Band” tab. Those interested in sponsoring or donating to the band can visit the “Support Us” tab.

For more information on the Eastern Hillsborough Community Band or to find out about its upcoming concerts, visit www.ehcb.org.

Te Eastern Hillsborough Community Band is a volunteer band that performs around the Tampa Bay area.

LeCompte College Prep was founded in 2020 to help high school students and their families successfully navigate the college and career selection process.

SMILELYNN PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY WELCOMES ALL TO 6 YEAR CELEBRATION

SmileLYNN Pediatric Dentistry is celebrating six years of being in business. To celebrate, it is hosting a party for current patients and those in the community at the Apollo Beach Recreation Center on Saturday, June 22, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. There will be all kinds of fun, such as the park’s splash pad, face painting, frozen treats, snacks, games, prizes, giveaways and a rafe with a $5 entry (proceeds will go to a local charity).

Dr. Casey Lynn stated of SmileLYNN’s six-year anniversary event, “We are looking forward to a fun Saturday in Apollo and hope as many families as possible can join us for some fun in the sun.”

With SmileLYNN’s motto of “Pediatric Dentistry, Done Diferently,” Dr. Lynn believes in quality care, prevention education, running on time and not overbooking appointments. The dentistry ofce focuses on minimally invasive procedures as well as taking time with patients who are anxious so as to make the patients feel safe. SmileLYNN Pediatric Dentistry also has within its ofce the Tampa Tongue Tie Center, which ofcially opened in 2020. But Dr. Lynn has been treating oral ties since SmileLYNN opened its doors in 2018. On why he branched of into working

By Ashley Abene

with oral ties as well as pediatric dentistry, Dr. Lynn said, “I took an interest in the topic and began exploring more, continuing education on the subject as I finished my specialist training. While building SmileLYNN, I worked in other offices, and one of the doctors that mentored me helped me gain insight and hands-on training procedurally. Since then, I have continued to learn, invest in continuing education and expand my abilities to help patients with tethered oral tissues. It is one of my favorite things to help patients with as a specialist because it has such a dramatic efect on patients’ development and quality of life. … The research on prevalence and treatment of tongue ties has come back into mainstream and steady research is being done to help bring to light the impact of oral restrictions and help even more patients thrive through growth and development into adulthood.”

SmileLYNN Pediatric Dentistry is located at 122 Harbor Village Lane in Apollo Beach of of N. U.S. 41. To find out more information, visit its website at www. smilelynndental.com or call its ofce at 813-591-3052.

ANNUAL COUNTY FAIR HARVEST AWARDS NOMINATIONS ARE NOW OPEN

This year’s Harvest Awards, presented by the Hillsborough County Fair, won’t be awarded until October, but applications for nominees are now open. What makes these awards so unique is that they recognize not only those engaged in what’s considered traditional agriculture but also those involved in urban agriculture, as well as public and community service.

According to Randy Sears, event chair, the event will have some exciting new additions.

“After careful consideration, the Harvest Awards Committee has moved the event up to October 10, three weeks before the start of the fair that runs from October 31 until November 11, 2024, at the fairgrounds, 215 Sydney Washer Rd., Dover. In addition, we’ve added a new category to recognize emerging young leaders in agriculture with the Next Generation Farmer/Rancher/Nurseryman Award for an individual with less than 10 years in the field.”

Lifetime Achievement, Outstanding Agribusiness, Outstanding Public & Community Service, Urban Agriculture/Agriculturalist, Outstanding Farmer/ Rancher/Nurseryman, Outstanding Woman in Agriculture, Posthumous Memorial Award and the new Next Generation Award. Applications are available on the fair’s website, https://hillsboroughcountyfair. com/, which also has a complete list of previous winners as well as application requirements. All nominations must be received by Monday, July 15, and can be submitted by mailing to Harvest Awards, Hillsborough County Fair, P.O. Box 100, Sydney, FL 33587, or via email to suzanne@ hillsboroughcountyfair.com.

The mission of the Harvest Awards, since its inception, has been to recognize the accomplishments of families, individuals and organizations for their achievements and commitment to agriculture and to preserve the agricultural heritage of Hillsborough County. Award categories include Farm Family of the Year,

Participants in the luncheon include agricultural, business and community leaders; educational and governmental representatives; and students representing 4-H, FFA and other youth groups. In addition to a lunch featuring strawberry shortcakes provided by the Florida Strawberry Growers Association, participants will also receive gift bags filled with items from numerous commodity organizations and businesses. Businesses wishing to donate may contact Betty Jo Tompkins at bjt6890@yahoo.com or 813-477-8332.

Pictured is Dr. Casey Lynn conducting a normal dentist appointment with a happy, calm child.

Te annual Harvest Awards at the Hillsborough County Fair will be held a few weeks prior to the fair on Tursday, October 10.

Hillsborough County Public Schools partnered with myON to “stop the summer slide.”

With myON, Hillsborough County students can find reading challenges and fun activities to keep them reading over the summer.

The ‘summer slide’ is when students lose an average of about one month’s worth of learning during summer break, according to Hillsborough County’s newsletter. However, reading just two books over the summer can help young students fight the summer slide.

These reading challenges run from Saturday, June 1, through Wednesday, July 31. Students will log their time spent on myON for the chance to win prizes.

Students with over 400 reading minutes during June or July will be entered into a random drawing where 15 students will earn a tablet. At the end of summer, students who logged over 800 minutes through their myON account will be entered into a drawing where 10 students will receive a laptop.

In addition to the challenges, family reading activities can help students set and reach goals while encouraging them to read with their family. Activities are broken down into fun categories to fit every genre for the young readers.

By Lily Belcher

Superintendent of Hillsborough County Public Schools Van Ayres said summer is a “great opportunity” for students to not only keep up with their reading but also to stay sharp over the summer in preparation for the upcoming school year.

“Literacy is one of my top priorities,” Ayres said. “Parents can help by making sure their children read just two books over the break, which will keep them on track and prevent the summer slide.”

The online library myON ofers students the opportunity to read what they want while encouraging them to grow as readers. This free program allows students to access a personalized online reading plan.

With myON, students will find the motivation to read the two books or more that they need to stop the summer slide. Stopping this loss of learning will better prepare Hillsborough County’s students for the upcoming school year.

For more information about myON or the summer reading challenges, visit https:// hillsborough.renaissance.com/reading-campaign/2024-summer-reading-challenge/ or contact streetteam@myon.com. To start the summer reading journey by making a free account, visit www.myon.com.

SOUTH SHORE AUTHORS SHOWCASES TALENTED AUTHORS AND OFFERS AUDIO CONTENT FOR THE PUBLIC TO ENJOY

By Kathy L. Collins

South Shore Authors is a group of talented, published authors with the goal of making the products of their writing efforts readily available to interested readers. South Shore Authors’ members meet on the second and fourth Thursday of every month at the SouthShore Regional Library.

The group was founded by Lawrence V. Drake and Mark Sondrini. Drake explained, “After many years as a self-published author, I struggled to sell my books in any meaningful quantity. Although I have sold several thousand books, I found that the time and money invested in marketing generally exceeded the return. I came to the conclusion that a band of authors could conceivably pool their talents and resources to more efectively attract attention to their work. As authors, we enjoy writing but we also enjoy the reward of people reading our eforts.”

Drake added, “South Shore Authors is comprised of a small group of talented authors with a combined total of more than 100 books. We currently have 12 members. Some of our members are quite prolific, while others have only a few books out so far. Most of our books are self-published, although some are published through conventional publishers. All of our books are available on amazon. com and other outlets. They range over

a wide variety of genre, from nonfiction memoirs to novels of all sorts. There are exciting military stories and sweet romances, intriguing mysteries and wild scifi adventures.”

In addition, the group works to produce audio short stories and other audio content. The SouthShore Regional Library has a recording studio which is available for use by residents of Hillsborough County with a library card.

You can listen to parts of Drake’s short story, “The Bonneville,” which he also adapted into a play. The audio stories can be found by visiting https://southshoreauthors.com/.

In order to become a member of South Shore Authors, you must have a completed Amazon Author page and a minimum of two published titles. At least one book should have five or more reviews with four stars or better. Members are required to submit at least one short story for inclusion on the website and commit to jointly promoting members’ published works.

Drake said, “South Shore Authors is not a writers’ group but a group of published authors. We do not read and critique manuscripts or discuss works in progress. We focus on life after a book is published.”

For more information, please visit https://southshoreauthors.com/.

Hillsborough County’s partnership with myON will help students reach their reading goals and prepare for the next school year.

Celebrating 10 years of music director and maestro Michael Francis’ bold artistic leadership, The Florida Orchestra (TFO) announced the 2024-25 season, full of the world’s great masterpieces, stunning new discoveries and broad programming that refl ects the rich cultural landscape of Tampa Bay and beyond. The 57th season is a culmination of what Francis and TFO do best: creative, thoughtful programs that foster a deeper, more personal connection to the music and mission of Florida’s largest professional orchestra.

To open the premier Hough Family Foundation Masterworks in October, Francis uses his inspiration from Tampa Bay’s Latin roots. The innovative, colorful program partners with The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay in unexpected ways, including a fantastic fi nish with Maurice Ravel’s Boléro

The Masterworks series will emphasize great concertos of the Romantic Period, including Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 with renowned soloist Olga Kern, Felix Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto and Edvard Grieg’s Piano Concerto, alongside epic masterpieces including Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 and Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 3.

For the fi rst time, TFO is going country in the Raymond James Pops series. It opens with Country Hits: Songs from Nashville, a tribute to icons such as Dolly Parton and Garth Brooks. In the special Pops concert Pretty Woman to Hunger Games , famed fi lm composer James Newton Howard himself will conduct some of his most captivating scores.

The reenergized Morning Matinees series is back with a new lead conductor, TFO resident conductor Chelsea Gallo. Also new: Each morning concert will

showcase one of TFO’s remarkable musicians as a soloist.

Season tickets for all subscription series are on sale now at https://florid-

Odyssey ), one of the fi rst works Francis ever conducted with TFO. This will be the fi rst time TFO performs the Mahler arrangement of Beethoven’s iconic symphony, a bigger, bolder version of the original. Francis also will conduct Aaron Copland’s Symphony No. 3 (May 9-10, 2025) — the great American symphony — which was part of his fi rst opening night with TFO in 2015.

aorchestra. org/.

“The new season is fi lled with incredible variety. We’re proud to work with soloists from the world’s great concert halls as we continue to create spectacular experiences with familiar favorites while introducing new discoveries,” said Francis, who is generously sponsored by the Hough family. “We’ve expanded our Masterworks series to 14 programs. Each

Francis is bringing back another creative success for the Masterworks series: ‘mystery pieces.’ Francis has personally chosen all 14 short works, which will enhance and connect to the program in a surprising way. None will be listed ahead of time.

40 YEARS SERVING CHILDREN

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one is carefully curated to tell a story and spark a great conversation. My absolute passion is to help each person connect to the music and, above all, to connect to themselves. Every concert should feel unique and meaningful to your life and your community.”

“It’s amazing to me that we’ve reached my tenth season with The Florida Orchestra. Making music with these musicians has been a true privilege, and I’m proud of our work as a beacon of artistic excellence in Tampa Bay,” said Francis, who signed a contract extension through at least the 2029-30 season.

The Masterworks series re-

ects a decade of Francis’ infl uence. A centerpiece concert of the season pairs two of the most famous openings in music: Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 (Nov. 1-3) and Richard Strauss’ Also sprach Zarathustra (theme from 2001: A Space

“This season makes a statement about the impact Michael Francis and TFO have made over the past decade,” said President and CEO Ignacio Barrón Viela. “Our audiences have come to expect not only a great performance but a special experience that stays with them long after they leave the concert hall. At The Florida Orchestra, we believe music is a catalyst for beauty, healing, joy and so much more. The Tampa Bay community is such a rich melting pot of cultures, and we are performing a wide variety of music that is accessible to all. Nobody delivers experiences at the highest level like Michael Francis with your Florida Orchestra, both in the concert hall and the community.” Visit https://fl oridaorchestra.org/ for more information.

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