Osprey Observer Valrico April 2023

BRANDON’S TIMES SQUARE PIZZA OWNER CELEBRATES 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SANDLOT

While sports fans are usually most passionate about one sport, most sports fans love The Sandlot, a movie based on a group of neighborhood kids connecting through baseball. The Sandlot resonates with them because of sports, the camaraderie of the kids, the nostalgia of the time and the plight of the characters.

What most people in our community don’t know is that Sandlot’s Tommy ‘Repeat’ Timmons graduated from Bloomingdale High School in 2001. Tommy is Bloomingdale’s Shane Obedzinski. He was born and raised in Brandon and owns Times Square Pizza in Bloomingdale Square with Charlie Jonathan.

This year is the 30th anniversary of The Sandlot. The movie premiered in April of 1993. Celebrations are being held all over the country this year, namely in Utah in August, where the movie was filmed. Shane will be there with his Sandlot co-stars.

Obedzinski’s acting career started at the age of 3 in a Kool-Aid commercial. He credits his mom, Peggy Lawson, for recognizing his potential and giving him the leeway to follow his heart. He turned 10 on the set of The Sandlot

“As I get older, I realize I was a part of something incredibly special,” Obedzinski said.

In The Sandlot, Babe Ruth said, “Remember, kid, there’s heroes and there’s legends. Heroes get remembered, but legends never

STINGRAY CHEVROLET CAR RAFFLES RAISE MORE THAN $3 MILLION FOR UNITY IN THE COMMUNITY

By Jonathan Hurst

By Jane Owen

die. Follow your heart, kid, and you’ll never go wrong.”

Obedzinski puts his heart into all he does and loves living in Brandon. Our community is made up of hardworking people.

Shane just happens to be a hardworking Bloomingdale business owner who was in a famous movie. He wouldn’t change anything.

“There’s not a lot of places in the world like Florida. There’s not a lot of places where you grow up and you still like it as much as you did when you were a kid. I’ve been lucky to travel my whole life, and there’s nowhere else I would rather be than this area of Florida,” Obedzinski said.

Obedzinski and Jonathan embody the sense of community portrayed in The Sandlot, as they support all things local. The pizzeria highlights artwork from Burns Middle School and Bloomingdale High School, and they donate pizzas weekly to Brandon Regional Hospital, welcome highlighting local artists and quite simply love connecting with customers on a personal level.

And great news for all Sandlot fans: A Sandlot television series based in the late 80s is set for next year with the movie’s players and their kids.

Times Square Pizza is located in Bloomingdale Square at 927 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. For more information, visit https://tspizzaco.com/ or call 813-651-0122.

For the 14th time, Stingray Chevrolet has successfully run its New Vehicle Rafe benefitting Unity in the Community. On March 12, the May family were the recipients of a new C8 Corvette, as one of the 20 tickets they purchased was drawn as the winning ticket at the Strawberry Festival.

With tickets costing $5 each, there were between 60,000 to 70,000 tickets in the drawing this year, which was done live in front of a crowd at the Strawberry Festival and livestreamed on Stingray Chevrolet’s Facebook page. This year’s winner, James May, purchased 20 tickets but had not even consider winning and just wanted to help Unity in the Community continue their great work.

While all past years of this rafe are considered successful, this year broke records, as Stingray Chevrolet and owner Steve Hurley were able to generate $363,000 for Unity in the Community. In total, Stingray Chevrolet has donated almost $3,000,000 to the organization over the 14 years that this rafe has been held.

“We have given $2.945M over the 14 rafes to Unity in the Community. Ironically, that could have never happened without the help of the community itself here in Plant City. Without the Florida Strawberry Festival, our Unity board members, all of our volunteers at the festival, our outstanding radio media partners and so many more, the rafes could never have happened,” Stingray Chevrolet owner Steve Hurley shared.

Unity in the Community is a Plant Citybased nonprofit organization dedicated to helping those in need through donations to diferent local charities such as Plant City

United Food Bank and Lots of Hugs Summer Reading program. Additionally, Unity has 13 scholarships that it gives out annually to local high school students. Unity has a board comprised of up to a dozen local business owners and its founder, Joyce Jordan Hooke. Hurley also serves on the Unity board and was brainstorming ways to be able to raise more funds than they had in the past, and he contemplated simply donating a car. After some more thinking, he came to the realization that through a legal new vehicle rafe, they would be able to generate three to four times the value of the car. The community really rallies around this event, which allows Hurley and Stingray to help Unity in the Community fulfill its mission.

“I am just proud of all of the great people in Plant City who are able to help make this rafe happen each year. … The dozens and dozens of volunteers collecting the donations and the support of the radio companies providing bonus ads over and above our advertising buys each year is truly amazing,” said Hurley.

For more information about Unity in the Community, visit its website at www. unityinplantcity.org. Stingray Chevrolet is located at 2002 N. Frontage Rd. in Plant City. For more information about it, visit www.stingraychevrolet.com.

IN THIS ISSUE:

DURANT’S AG TEACHER PG 3

PLAN HILLSBOROUGH PG 7

RUNNING OF THE BULLS 5K PG 9

EYE ON BUSINESS PG 35

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE SEC 2

Looking for something fun to do with the entire family outdoors? Come rent a canoe from Alafa River Canoe Rentals, located on the banks of the Alafa River just of Lithia Pinecrest Road. For more information, see the full article on page 14.

Te May family, the winners of the C8 Corvette rafe.

Photos courtesy of Stingray Chevrolet.

Steve Hurley and the Unity in the Community team with the check presentation at Stingray Chevrolet.

Shane Obedzinski, Te Sandlot’s Tommy ‘Repeat’ Timmons, and Charlie Jonathan own Times Square Pizza in Brandon.

Te Sandlot actors will reunite in Utah in August to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the iconic movie.

ALEXSTRONG FOUNDATION HOSTS BASS TOURNAMENT TO SUPPORT YOUNG NOLA SALLING

The AlexStrong Foundation is hosting its seventh annual Bass Tournament to support a local Gibsonton kid battling leukemia on Saturday, May 13.

Nola Salling has been battling leukemia for two years now since being diagnosed at 5 years old. She is receiving treatment from St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Tennessee. Salling and her family are hoping she can get healthy enough to receive a bone marrow transplant to help fight the cancer.

“This is our seventh annual fishing tournament, and with these tournaments, and other fundraisers and the support of the community, we have been able to donate over $150,000 to local families in need,” said AlexStrong founder Lori Sumner.

The Bass Tournament will take place at the Grape Hammock Fish Camp on Lake Kissimmee, located at 1400 Grape Hammock Rd. in Lake Wales, for $60 per boat for one or two participants. The tournament will start at first safe light, followed by a weigh-in at 2 p.m. Participants can preregister on Facebook or register in person the morning of the event. Each pair can catch up to six bass, and first through third-place winners will receive a cash prize.

AG TEACHER TIMOTHY CRIBBS MADE HIS MARK AT DURANT AND BEYOND

By Linda Chion

By Lily Belcher

Following the fishing tournament, the AlexStrong Foundation will host a rafe. The rafe will have a mix of fishing/hunting gear, gift baskets, gift cards, kid items and other prizes.

In addition to raising money for Salling through the tournament and rafe, the AlexStrong Foundation is accepting individual donations and corporate sponsorships. Sponsor logos will be displayed on a banner at the event. All donations and sponsorships are tax-deductible.

“We are so thankful to the people that continue to donate and help support our mission to pay forward all the kindness that was shown to our family when Alex was sick. We love keeping his memory alive by helping other families,” said Lori.

The AlexStrong Foundation was started in memory of Alex Sumner, who died of cancer in 2017. The foundation is a nonprofit organization that supports families with children facing life-threatening illnesses. The money raised at the Bass Tournament will go to the Salling family to help fund treatments.

For more information on the AlexStrong Foundation or this year’s Bass Tournament and rafe, visit its Facebook page or contact Lori at 813-493-2557.

“In loving memory of Timothy H. Cribbs,” read a display last month at the Florida Strawberry Festival featuring a life-sized photo of agriculture education teacher Timothy H. Cribbs of Plant City, who started his career at Durant High School the same year the school opened.

The year was 1995, and Cribbs was a few years into his teaching career with Hillsborough County Public Schools. Cribbs died on December 14, 2022, at age 61, having been an ag teacher for 39 years.

“He was always 24/7 agriculture and working with the kids, and I know he took pride in helping to develop future leaders,” said Scott Brooks, who as a junior high student met Cribbs, then a teacher, at Turkey Creek Middle School. Like Cribbs, Brooks attended the University of Florida and after graduation taught with Cribbs at Durant High School. Brooks now works for Hillsborough’s career, technical and adult education department.

That Cribbs had a decades-long impact on his community, his colleagues and the children he taught and mentored was apparent at his funeral service, which Brooks said was run like an FFA meeting, complete with speeches and opening and

closing ceremonies. “Young people, former students and ag teachers who left the area, they all came back for Tim’s funeral,” Brooks said. “Durant students had on their FFA jackets while students from other schools did the same. It was spot-on, and it was Tim.”

While many photographs of Cribbs were in view at the Florida Strawberry Festival, none were larger than the life-sized photo of Cribbs at the Durant FFA display that shows him hunched over, kicking up his knee, bowing his head, grinning widely and clenching a fist, signifying another triumph.

“Tim was larger than life, one of the most competitive humans I’ve ever been around,” Brooks said. “A lot of people want to win competitions and they want their trophies and the glory that comes with it. But very few are willing to do all the work that it takes to be the best.”

When it came to Cribbs, a seasoned ag teacher and Florida FFA advisor, “it’s kind of a legacy of his, how many people he made champions,” Brooks said. “Saturdays, Sundays, after school, before school, during lunch, he gave so much of his personal time to help so many of these kids become successful.”

Te AlexStrong Foundation is raising money to support 7-year-old Nola Salling, who is battling leukemia.

On display at the Durant FFA display at last month’s Florida Strawberry Festival in Plant City was a life-sized photo of Timothy H. Cribbs, a larger-than-life educator and FFA advisor.

HILLSBOROUGH LEADS STATE IN LOCAL PRESERVATION EFFORTS

By Brian Bokor

volunteer committees involved in every key aspect of the program.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

EDGE POOLS IS TITLE SPONSOR OF WATER SMART TOTS ANNUAL GALA

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

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

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

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

“[She is returning] for her refresher

By Lily Belcher

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR SUMMER 2023 SEMESTER AT HCC

Summer 2023 registration is open for all new and returning students at Hillsborough Community College (HCC). Classes begin on Monday, May 15 online and at all campus and satellite locations. Registration is available at www.hccfl.edu/ registernow for existing students. Registration and application information for new students can be found at www.hccfl.edu/ admissions.

HCC ofers flexible class schedules and course delivery options, which allow students to study at their own pace without compromising their work or family obligations. Options include:

• On-campus, with face-to-face instruction and scheduled class meetings at one of HCC’s five campuses or satellite locations.

• Hybrid courses, which combine in-person and online delivery.

• Simulcast courses, which combine online video conferencing and an on-campus component.

• Online, with live class meetings. Faculty and students are online at the same time for the class meetings with additional online work done on their own.

• Online, with no mandatory live class meetings.

Instructor communication and feedback is through Canvas.

• Flexible-start courses that start at various times throughout the semester, including one 12-week session, one 10-week session, one eightweek session and three five-week sessions.

Tuition at HCC is significantly less than the cost of public universities, private colleges and for-profit institutions. The college was recently listed as the only Florida college with the lowest net price among other U.S. two-year public institutions, via the U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).

Hillsborough Community College serves more than 42,000 students annually at its five campuses located throughout Tampa Bay. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate and baccalaureate degrees. For more information, visit the college website www.hccfl.edu.

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

Summer 2023 classes begin on Monday, May 15 at Hillsborough Community College. Registration is open for all new and returning students at all its satellite and campus locations, including Brandon, Te Regent, SouthShore and Plant City.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

VALRICO FISHHAWK CHAMBER HOSTS

KICKBALL TOURNAMENT SPONSORED BY HITECH AUTOMOTIVE

The Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce will be hosting its second annual Kickball Tournament, sponsored by HiTech Automotive, on April 22 at High 5 Inc. in Brandon. The event kicks of at 8 a.m. and runs until 3 p.m.

Each year, the Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce honors one local organization as the ‘Charity of Choice.’ The 2022 tournament raised $3,075 for Impact, and eforts are underway to beat that total this year.

The 2023 Kickball Tournament Charity of Choice is Faces of Courage. Faces of Courage is a local organization that provides day outings, educational workshops and medically supervised overnight camps at no cost to women, children and families touched by all types of cancer and blood disorders.

Base sponsors, teams, players and volunteers are still needed to help make this year’s tournament a success. This is a family event, and players need to be just 13 years old to participate in the tournament. There is a bonus round of jumbo kickball that is sure to bring laughs and fun.

During the event, High 5 will open its facility and ofer day passes to guests to access activities like swimming and laser tag. This

Staf Report

is an excellent opportunity to check out all that High 5 has to ofer families in the community.

Teams will be provided with lunch by Chick-fil-A of Lake Brandon Village and Bloomingdale. Throughout the day, chamber members will be selling 50/50 rafe tickets. Sugar Lees Gourmet Cofee Service and Kona Ice will be selling specialty cofees and icy treats as well.

The Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce supports local business owners and nonprofit organizations through positive networking, business education and community involvement. The members are involved in building relationships and friendships that make a diference. With approximately 250 members representing businesses of all sizes, the chamber is proud to focus on building a “know, like and trust” approach which leads to members using and referring others to fellow chamber members.

To learn more or register for the event, visit https://tinyurl.com/VFCCKB23 or email info@valricofishhawk.org.

To learn more about Faces of Courage, visit https://facesofcourage.org/. High 5 is located at 405 Beverly Rd. in Brandon.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fctitious name of House of Bread Contemporary Kitchen Collective located at 13194 Hwy 301 South Ste. 316, in Hillsborough County, in the City of Riverview, Florida, 33578, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated at Valrico, FL this 15th Day of April 2023

What We O fer:

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Contact

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Michele Urbanowski 732-757-5816 fhomesbymichele@gmail.com

Shelly Valdez 813-401-9489 shellysuperagent@gmail.com

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fctiious name of THE ARTZY MERMAID located at 6128 N. U.S. HWY 41, in Hillsborough County, in the City of Apollo Beach, Florida, 33572, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

Dated at Valrico, FL this 15th Day of April 2023

BLOOMINGDALE’S RUNNING OF THE BULLS 5K RETURNS IN MAY

The Running of the Bulls 5K is on Saturday, May 20 at Bloomingdale High School.

The 5K is a favorite community event bringing in runners and walkers from all over the area, along with current students and BSHS alumni. Participants will enjoy the race knowing they are making a di f erence for students.

The 5K supports the Bloomingdale band and is made possible by local business sponsorships, such as premium sponsors Acropolis Greek Taverna in Riverview and The Jeep Depot.

Nick Baxter, 2022 race winner, is enthusiastic about running the race again. He said there are many reasons why he enjoys the Running of the Bulls 5K.

“Running of the Bulls is a great race and I’m excited to get back to the on-campus course this year. It’s always very well organized and has a fun community atmosphere with the drumline, local vendors and student volunteers. Plus, it always has some very speedy high school kids to test yourself against. On top of all that, the race supports the high school band and it’s always good to race locally where it helps the community. I look for-

MOSAIC PARTNERS WITH THE CONFIDENCE & LEADERSHIP FOUNDATION TO SUPPORT GIRLS & BOYS WITH CONFIDENCE TO TITLE I SCHOOLS

By Jane Owen

ward to racing it again,” Baxter said.

Jon Sever, supervisor of secondary music for Hillsborough County schools and former Bloomingdale band director, said the 5K provides invaluable support for Bloomingdale’s band. Sever enjoys how the event brings the community and band together. He explained that the band students and families volunteer for the race, and the race participants are supporting the band program.

“The 5K reaches part of our community that in turn supports the Bloomingdale band. It’s reciprocal because the event brings together two interest groups helping each other,” Sever said.

The Running of the Bulls 5K starts at 8 a.m. It starts and finishes on the track and uses the sidewalks, roads and parking lots on campus. Registered participants receive a Dri-FIT shirt and finishers receive medals. The race is timed by Bay City Timing, and the winners of each age group receive medals. Registration is $35.

To register for the 5K visit, https://raceroster.com/events/2023/72397/running-of-the-bulls-5k.

For more information, email bloomingdalebulls5k@gmail.com.

The Confidence & Leadership Foundation was recently selected by Mosaic to be a community partner for its commitment to supporting diversity and inclusion. Through this partnership, they will be able to ofer free programming to several Title I schools in the Tampa Bay area.

“We were honored to be selected by Mosaic and look forward to making an impact on the populations we serve through this partnership,” said Nancy Lemon, executive director for the foundation. “We can now ofer our programs after school to kids that can really use the additional tools, guidance and support.”

The foundation supports programs offered by Girls & Boys With Confidence that focus on the development of positive self-esteem and strong character. The programs help elementary-age children learn life skills and strategies for managing through the challenges they might experience, such as exclusion, bullying, distorted body image, diversity, friendships, perfectionism, etc.

“We understand the impact of the foundation’s work for girls and boys in under-resourced communities within Hillsborough County. Mosaic is committed to supporting that impact by providing fi-

nancial support and resources to increase the capacity and reach of the Foundation,” said Sarah Fedorchuk, Mosaic’s vice president of government and public afairs for North America.

Currently, Girls & Boys With Confidence is offering free programming through The Confidence & Leadership Foundation to several Title I schools, including McDonald, Mintz, Booker T. Washington and Burney elementary schools, with more to be added later this spring and in the fall.

The Confidence & Leadership Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was formed in the fall of 2019 to help support Girls & Boys With Confidence in two main areas: scholarships and Title I school programming.

Its mission is: “Providing all youth the opportunity to grow their self-confidence to become tomorrow’s leaders.”

For more information on The Confidence & Leadership Foundation, email info@confidenceandleadership.org.

Girls With Confidence and Boys With Confidence are located at 10540 Browning Rd. in Lithia; visit www.girlswithconfidence.com for additional programming information.

until April 30th

2022 Running of the Bulls Overall Winner Nick Baxter with the Bloomingdale Bull.

STRAWBERRY CREST COMPETES IN ANNUAL HOSPITALITY COMPETITION

The 2023 annual Florida High School Hospitality Competition, sponsored by the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, was held in Orlando from March 4-7. Under the direction of instructor Paul Bonanno, students from Strawberry Crest High School competed, and Strawberry Crest finished overall in third place in the Florida ProStart Competition.

Bonanno is in his 11th year with Strawberry Crest. He studied at the Institute of Culinary Education in New York and was the executive chef at Bernini in Ybor City prior to joining the faculty of Strawberry Crest.

ProStart is a culinary curriculum developed by the National Restaurant Association that trains high school students for careers in the culinary and hospitality industry. The competition runs in each state as part of the program, and students from across the state compete. This year, there were 37 schools represented at the state competition. There are four diferent events: the Culinary Competition, Management Competition, Waiters Relay Race and Edible Centerpiece.

In the Culinary Competition, Strawberry Crest placed second. Bonanno explained, “This consists of five students, and they have one hour to prepare a three-course meal consisting of an appetizer, entrée and dessert. They only get two butane camping burners to compete the meals. No ovens, no electric equipment; everything is made from scratch, and the recipes are solely created

By Kathy L. Collins

by the students.”

The students who competed in this were seniors Julian Alvarado, Emma Langston, Breanna May, Mayte Hernandez and Sydnie Gutierrez.

In the Management Competition, Strawberry Crest placed fourth.

Bonanno said, “Students form a team with up to five members; ours was three students. They basically create an original restaurant concept and create a template of that restaurant from the ground up. They must complete a written proposal, decor, design interior floor plans for the dining room and kitchen, marketing tactics and sample menu of 12 items. They then pitch their concept to a panel of judges a la Shark Tank style.”

Students in this category were junior Katya King and seniors Lauren Trotto and Conner Butler.

Daisy Silva-Bautista placed 11th in the Edible Centerpiece.

Students compete for scholarships to post-secondary culinary programs. This is based on the place they get. Bonanno said, “Our students had the potential to earn scholarships and gained experience.”

Last year, Strawberry Crest placed first, and its culinary team represented Team Florida at the National Competition in Washington. The school’s team placed 11th in the nation. Bonanno said, “We have a very in depth and rigorous program that trains our kids for the industry straight out of high school.”

COACHING SPOTLIGHT: BLAKE OLSON STRAWBERRY CREST HIGH SCHOOL

For Strawberry Crest’s head wrestling coach, Blake Olson, wrestling has always been a focal point of his life. Prior to taking the reins of Strawberry Crest’s wrestling program in 2018, Olson had already coached for years with extensive experience wrestling himself.

After a successful high school career, Olson committed to continuing his athletic and academic career by wrestling at the NCAA Division III level for North Central College in Naperville, Illinois for four years. Wrestling did not stop there for Olson, however, as he continues to compete in open division tournaments to this day.

Olson’s coaching career began years ago when he started working with youth wrestlers while still in high school in 2011. His first full coaching job came after he graduated from college when he signed on to be the head coach at Wilmington Middle School before moving on to be an assistant coach at Wilmington High School. His final stop before coming onto staf at Strawberry Crest was as an assistant coach at Millikin University in Illinois.

Coaching was always the goal for Olson, having fallen in love with wrestling in his youth, with a penchant for the technical aspect of the sport. This shows up in his coaching, as he and his staf focus on having a technique first approach. This al-

By Jonathan Hurst

lows for the training to be applied fairly evenly across the board for all weight classes.

“I think one of the ways I try to distinguish myself and our program is through technique. I’ve always taken a technique-first approach, and we spend a lot of time concentrating on technical theory and execution with live wrestling,” Olson said.

Olson views wrestling to be somewhat representative of life as the skills they learn and practice, like discipline and consistency, can be used to ensure that they fulfill their potential. He enjoys seeing his players work through the process of becoming good at something, and achieving, whether it is on or o f the mats.

“It’s easy to bring up podium performances, like coaching an NCAA finalist … or the state placers I have coached while at Crest, but I would say my biggest accomplishments happen every year when I see my former wrestlers accomplish major life goals, like being the first in their family to graduate college, graduating from the police academy or getting a big promotion,” Olsen said.

While no one can predict the future, Olson is currently entirely focused on Strawberry Crest, and he is dedicated to helping the program and his wrestlers become the best that they can be.

Strawberry Crest High School, under the direction of Paul Bonanno, competed in annual Florida High School Hospitality Competition.

DURANT THEATRE COMPANY TO PERFORM THE LITTLE MERMAID

Durant Theatre Company will transport their audience under the sea at the end of April for their spring musical, The Little Mermaid

With a cast of 33 students, director Stephen Arment decided to produce The Little Mermaid following the success of Beauty and the Beast last year.

“Little Mermaid is an enormous, complex show. We are tasked with creating an entire world ‘Under the Sea.’ We’ve brought on DHS alumni and current Disney princess Marissa Steiner as choreographer this year to help make things a little easier and she has just been wonderful. This is a very tech-heavy show, so our crew members definitely have their work cut out for them if we’re going to be successful,” explained Arment.

Eight crew members, led by senior stage manager Autumn Bodenweiser and senior tech director Kalyn Hansen, have worked hard to execute an exciting and immersive show.

Senior and four-year company veteran Madison Tolley will take the stage as Ariel. Prince Eric will be played by senior Ryan Gagnon, who joined the cast this year.

“Natalie Doucette is holding her [own] as our resident villain, Ursula. Natalie has also

By Lily Belcher

been involved all four years of high school and is thrilled to meet the challenge of her first leading role in a musical,” said Arment.

This is also the first year Arment has been able to double-cast a role, meaning both senior Gwynnie Ocampo and senior Jessie Leathers will play Flounder.

“Both girls breathe so much life into the yellow and blue fish and it’s exciting that folks will have an opportunity to see diferent performers at diferent shows,” praised Arment.

The cast is also being supported by Durant’s chorus teacher, Giselle Panagiotakis. Arment admitted the theater company is not specifically a musical cast, but Panagiotakis has played a key role in encouraging the cast to step out of their comfort zone.

“I can remember being in awe of their willingness to do that in Beauty and the Beast, and I continue to be amazed at how they take ownership of this daunting challenge,” said Arment.

The performances will take place from Thursday through Saturday, April 27 at 7 p.m., April 28 at 7 p.m. and April 29 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets will be available at the door or online at https://durantdrama. booktix.com/.

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Director Stephen Arment and his cast and crew of 33 students will perform Te Little Mermaid at the end of April.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY EXTENSION OFFICE OFFERS FINANCIAL EDUCATION FOR RESIDENTS

By Kathy L. Collins

CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE IS BACK AT RP FUNDING WITH FIVE ALL-NEW ICONIC CONCERTS

The Hillsborough County Extension Office is an education service provided by the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Services (IFAS) and Hillsborough County. The Extension Services provides a variety of services including education and information. Its services are provided to Hillsborough County residents through workshops, publications and mass media.

Te Hillsborough County Extension Ofce, established in 1914, has helped thousands of Hillsborough County residents with their fnancial education programs. Te ofce is located in Sefner.

Lisa Leslie, an Extension agent for family and consumer sciences, explained, “Classes are ofered online for the general public. There are in-person classes available upon request to groups. For example, I do a weekly class for Brewster College ESOL students.”

Leslie added, “We ofer an on-demand class called Building Financial Stability which people can participate at their own pace and own time. This class ofers an opportunity to learn basic strategies to achieve financial stability. Registration is free and ongoing.”

Leslie said, “We also ofer an on-demand class called Florida Master Money Mentor Training. This nine-module training is for people seeking to volunteer, looking for professional development or just increase their knowledge and help friends and family. One hundred percent discounts are available to those who need to have the $45.95 fee waived. They just need to complete the

scholarship form.”

As this is tax season, residents should know Hillsborough County Extension Service is ofering a link to free tax software to residents whose adjusted gross income on the tax return does not exceed $73,000. Leslie explained, “Adjusted gross income does not include things like tax deductible contributions to retirement plans or Health Savings Accounts. To receive the link, complete a short form at https://go.ufl.edu/taxreturn and provide your name, email and zip code. Once the form is completed, you will instantly be provided the free link to a robust tax software program. If requested, one-on-one assistance can be provided via web conference, telephone or email by providing a telephone number and a best time to contact.”

Once the form is completed, an IRS VITA-certified Extension agent will reach out to you to schedule an appointment. Please note, assistance is available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The Hillsborough County Extension Office has been ofering services since 1914. Leslie said, “Classes are ofered to enable people to improve their financial situation and for the good of the community.”

The Hillsborough County Extension Ofce is located at 5339 County Rd. 579 in Sefner. To register and get more information, please visit www.hcflgov.net/extension.

Are You Ready to Rock?

The RP Funding Center is excited to announce the 2023 series lineup for Classic Albums Live, as it returns with five iconic album performances. The RP Funding Center would like to thank Southern Homes for coming on board as an event sponsor for the 2023 series. Performed “note for note, cut for cut,” the Classic Albums Live Concert Series starts of on Thursday, May 18 with a selection voted as one of Rolling Stone magazine’s ‘Greatest Albums of All Time,’ Tom Petty’s Damn the Torpedoes. Then, on Sunday, July 16, an album which has sold over 18 million copies worldwide, Supertramp’s Breakfast in America, followed by the platinum rock ’n’ roll Led Zeppelin album Physical Graffiti on Sunday, August 27, which combines several musical styles into one eclectic masterpiece. Next is the widely acclaimed, chart-topping 1983 album Synchronicity by the Police on Thursday, October 19, and wrapping up the series is Classic Albums Live’s Lithium Show, featuring the music of Nirvana, Stone Tem-

ple Pilots, Alice in Chains, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden and others on Friday, December 15. The start time for all performances is 7:30 p.m.

To see all five of these great performances performed “note for note, cut for cut,” then look no further and become a Classic Albums Live Series subscriber. For $170, you get a ticket to each concert, preferred seating, free parking and 10 percent of concessions, plus a savings of over $30 when purchasing a subscription.

The new-subscriber series passes are on sale now. Single tickets go on sale starting Friday, April 21 at 9 a.m. Service charges may apply. Series passes are available by visiting the RP Funding Center Box Office or calling 863-834-8111. For event information, visit www.rpfundingcenter. com. Dates and ticket prices are subject to change without notice.

The RP Funding Center is conveniently located minutes between Orlando and Tampa in Lakeland, of I-4 on Lime Street, just a short drive from anywhere in Central Florida. Regular box ofce hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. For ticket information, call the center’s box office or visit its website.

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

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LIGHTNING AND MOSAIC CELEBRATE 10 YEARS OF GOALS FOR FOOD PROGRAM ACROSS THE TAMPA BAY REGION

The Tampa Bay Lightning and The Mosaic Company are proud to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Goals for Food program, which supports food-insecure residents across the Tampa Bay region.

“We are incredibly proud to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Goals for Food program in partnership with Mosaic,” said Mark Pitts, chief operating o f cer of Vinik Sports Group. “This program has been instrumental in supporting food-insecure families in our community, and we look forward to continuing this important work with Mosaic to support hunger relief e f orts.”

Mosaic’s Goals for Food program donates $1,000 for every goal and $1,500 for every hat trick scored by a Lightning player during the 2022-23 season. At the end of the season, the total donation will be distributed among 12 local food partner organizations dedicated to ending food insecurity throughout West Central Florida.

Since its inception in 2013, the Goals for Food partnership has profoundly impacted the lives of food-insecure residents, providing more than 9.8 million meals over the last decade.

Staf Report

On February 23, Mosaic employees, community partners and Lightning fans came together to celebrate this milestone and continue to raise awareness about the need to support food insecure families in West Central Florida. Also, that evening, in support of the Goals for Food program, the Lightning hosted a food drive to benefit Metropolitan Ministries at Ford Thunder Alley before their game against the Bu f alo Sabres at AMALIE Arena. Fans in attendance were invited to participate by donating nonperishable food items.

“Mosaic is committed to supporting the communities in which we live and work, and our partnership with the Tampa Bay Lightning through the Goals for Food program is one way we can make a di f erence,” said Bruce Bodine, Mosaic’s senior vice president - North America.

“We are proud to celebrate 10 years of this important program and remain dedicated to ending food insecurity in our region.”

For more information about the Goals for Food program and Mosaic’s commitment to local communities, visit https:// mosaicfloridaphosphate.com/.

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

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

This long-standing business came to be in 1976 when Sybil’s husband went out to get a canoe to navigate the periodi-

YEARS

By Jonathan Hurst

cal flood waters that would come around their house — and ultimately returned with four of them.

Over the next decade or so, those four canoes grew into a fleet of canoes and kayaks, peaking close to 200 in the 1990s. While the success sparked two other canoe rentals nearby in the past, in 2023, Alafia River Canoe Rentals stands alone as the oldest canoe rental for the Alafia River.

“We just stuck it out through the floods and some tougher times, and we are still here,” Sybil said. While it has sold of about half of those canoes in recent times, that has not led a downturn, as the company is firmly entrenched in the community it serves, and there are no plans to go anywhere anytime soon. Most popular in the springtime, as that is when the river is the most stable, it attempts to operate year-round.

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

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

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

HEATH WEALTH MANAGEMENT MAKES CUSTOMERS MAIN FOCUS

By Libby Hopkins

MCAULEY FINE JEWELRY CELEBRATES WITH NEW NEARBY LOCATION

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

bers at McAuley

Fine Jewelry have a wide skill set to assist customers.

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

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

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

JORDAN COX, BLACKSMITH TEACHES TRADE WITH CLASSES

While you may not know of many blacksmiths operating in the year 2023, Jordan Cox, known as Jordy the Knife Maker, is working to change that. A former chef turned bladesmith, Cox has quickly developed quite a talent for crafting knives, among various other forged works of art. Thankfully for the public, he is not keeping his talents to himself, as he ofers educational classes where you can learn about the ancient art form, and even craft your own knife.

Despite his first foray into the world of blacksmithing only coming a few years ago when he took an introductory class, his dedication to the craft has left his work looking like he has been in practice for decades. A true creative, Cox is constantly innovating with new styles and materials to bring this millenniums-old trade to modern times. In addition to classes, he takes commissions and has a variety of his knives for sale on his website.

“There is a sort of a resurgence happening, and there are a lot of hobbyists in the area. People seem to be really interested in the concept and being able to engage directly with it, as it is like functional artwork,” Cox said.

By Jonathan Hurst

Currently, he is offering a knife-making class, but he is willing to take on other tasks to help clients bring their visions to life. This is not a watered-down class by any means, as participants not only learn about the art form from a consummate professional but also play an active role in the creation of their knife, guided by him as well. Participants do everything from pounding out the redhot steel to forming the handle to the blade out of stabilized burlwood. Another incredible element is that by the end of the class, you will have a fully functional chef’s knife to take home with you, no extra steps or days involved.

With a typical class running for roughly eight hours, featuring drinks and a truly impressive lunch, this is the perfect outing for a variety of circumstances. Whether you are looking for a bonding experience with friends and family, a unique date or are simply curious about the craft, this is something that you are not going to find anywhere else.

Jordan Cox Knives is located in Thonotosassa on 12921 Cox Lane Trl. For information, visit https://jordancoxknives.com/ or email jordytheknifemaker@gmail.com.

HOW DOES SCREEN TIME AFFECT YOUR CHILD’S LEARNING?

Technology is an integral part of life, dominating the way we communicate, learn, work and more. Today’s children spend a lot of time on smartphones and computers, leaving many parents to wonder about the impact of all that screen time. So how exactly does screen time afect your child’s learning and development?

The Positive Efects of Screen Time

Starting with the good, there’s no question that access to digital media has positives for students of all ages. Technology opens up worlds of opportunity to learn and research. Here are just a few of its many benefits:

• Technology and apps aid in learning. There’s an app for everything, whether your child is learning to read or practicing algebra concepts.

• The internet makes it easy to access new information. A quick Google search can help your child discover just about anything.

• Social media can bring people together. Children often use social media to communicate and connect with others.

By Dr. Raymond J. Huntington

The Negative Efects of Screen Time

While there are definitely advantages of technology, screen time impacts children’s brains and behavior. Here are some of the negative efects of screen time on children and their learning:

• Decreased focus. Frequent use of digital devices can make it increasingly more difcult for children to maintain focus on things like homework.

• Distraction during class. Many teachers today make it a policy that students’ phones must be stowed in their backpacks during class — and for good reason.

• Disrupted sleep. Blue light-emitting screens can suppress the secretion of melatonin, a hormone produced by the brain in response to darkness that helps people sleep.

• Loss of interest in other things. Like many enjoyable activities, use of digital devices can be all-consuming — and difcult for some to stop doing.

Screen time is a hot topic these days, but it’s important to keep things in perspective. Not all screen time is bad, and many children develop healthy screen time habits with the help of supportive parents. If your child struggles with healthy screen time or study habits, call Huntington at 1-800 CAN LEARN (226-5327).

A participant shaping his knife.

A block of steel becomes a knife during the process.

Music Teater, Gardening, Golf Tournaments & More...

Bloomingdale High School Is Performing Little Shop Of

Horrors

Bloomingdale High School will be putting on its spring musical, Little Shop of Horrors, for two nights on Friday and Saturday, April 21 and 22 at 7 p.m. at Bloomingdale High School, located at 1700 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. The play is a horror-comedy rock musical about a florist who raises a plant that feeds on human flesh. Tickets are available for $10 at the door.

Mother’s Day Charity Gift Fair At

Twin Lakes Of Brandon

Twin Lakes of Brandon is hosting a gift fair on Saturday, May 6 to support the Fishhawk Lions Club. The event will be held in beautiful Zeina Park, located at 3054 Lake Michaela Blvd. in Valrico, from

10 a.m.-4 p.m. There will be a wide variety of vendors with something for everyone to enjoy, and lots of items perfect for Mother’s Day gifts.

Bill Wimble Memorial Golf Event

The sixth annual Bill Wimble Memorial Golf event will take place at River Hills Country Club on Sunday, April 23. Registration begins at 11 a.m., followed by tee of at 1 p.m. Individual entry is $130 and team entry $500, which include a boxed lunch, free beer, a swag bag and an awards dinner following the event at The Landing. Tickets for the awards dinner are available separately for $25. There will also be rafe prizes and a 50/50 drawing. Proceeds from the event will benefit Victory Junction Kids Camp.

Hillsborough County Hiring For Seasonal Parks & Rec Jobs School will let out soon for the summer, and many of those children will enroll in Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation summer camp programs. This means that the county is now hiring recreation leaders for the season. The jobs are 40 hours a week and last for 10 weeks. Summer camp leaders will work with children ages 5-16 years old in a variety of educational and outdoor recreational activities.

Applicants

must have first-aid and CPR certification before starting, along with a driver’s license and having graduated high school or earned a GED certificate. To apply, go to www.hcflgov. net/jobs.

Kerby’s Nursery Fruit Tree Seminar

When it comes to fresh fruit, there is nothing better than biting into ripe, juicy fruit that you just picked from your own garden. In the Kerby’s Nursery Fruit Tree Seminar, the various fruit trees that grow in our area and how to care for them will be discussed. Registration is not required, and the seminar is free. Be sure to visit the green house at Kerby’s Nursery, located at 2311 S. Parsons Ave. in Sefner shortly before 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 29.

Drive Out Pediatric Cancer Golf Tournament Small but Mighty He-

roes is hosting its first Drive Out Pediatric Cancer charity golf tournament on Saturday, May 13. The tournament will take place at Summerfield Crossing Golf Course, located at 13050 Summerfield Blvd. in Riverview. Registration opens at 11:30 a.m., followed by a shotgun start at 1 p.m. The entry price is $125 per golfer or $500 per foursome. For more information, visit https://smallbutmightyheroes.org/ or email info@smallbutmightyheroes.org.

Forever Family Market

The Sylvia Thomas Center at 500 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Brandon is hosting a Forever Family Market on Saturday, May 6 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Come out and see items

from a wide variety of local vendors, including jewelry, wooden signs, resin art, candles and much more. Make sure that you visit the Sylvia Thomas Center tent for delicious bake sale items. Admission is free.

Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BOARD GAMES AND BOWLING — A NEW SPIN ON OLD CLASSICS

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

kids so they say no to things like premarital sex, drugs, tobacco and alcohol.

The three programs work with di f erent levels of the community to fight unhealthy behaviors and teach smart habits, and they are able to reach over 10,000 kids every year. Impact serves the community through schools, churches and other community organizations.

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

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

FINANCIAL FOCUS SHOULD INVESTORS ‘GO IT ALONE’?

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

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

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

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

How do fnancial professionals help their clients in these ways?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Jonathan Hurst

erences throughout.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“This is the greatest experience a coach can have — when you look over and see their parents tear up to watch their son

By Madeline Gardner

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

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

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

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

EXPERIENCING THE ‘WILDER’ SIDE OF FLORIDA

By Jef Hoening

Floridians are no strangers to alligators, as many of us have seen them in our community ponds, sunning on the grassy banks. But to experience them in the wild, or better yet, of the front bow of an airboat, is an altogether diferent experience. Wild Florida, a walkable zoo, driving safari and airboat adventure park, docks on lovely Cypress Lake just east of the Florida Turnpike, where over 600 gators enjoy their natural habitat.

Wild Florida Airboats and Gator Park expands 170 acres of scenic landscapes and houses more than 150 native and exotic animals.

Your first stop is the gift shop, which ofers a variety of unique, wildlife-themed toys, apparel and household trinkets, as well as an aquarium-housed, extremely rare albino alligator, born at Wild Florida. If you purchase the airboat tour, which we highly recommend, you walk the dock to a 15-person airboat, piloted by knowledgeable captains, who navigate their crafts on a thrill-ride-like racetrack of tall marsh grass. Protective earmufs are provided, but not required. During our visit, our boat found a cute pod of baby gators, numbering 15 or more, while the mama lurked quietly on the lake bottom nearby, afraid of our boat.

After tying up at the dock, we headed

for the walk-through shaded gator park home to a gorgeous full-grown Florida panther named Nala, an Australian black mamba, curious lemurs, colorful macaws and much more. The park also houses its patriarch and largest alligator, the 14-foot modern-day dinosaur named Crusher. The park ofers an experience where patrons can have ‘lunch with Crusher’ in his enclosure. We found this curious, and also frightening; so, chatting with a couple of Crusher’s keepers, they commented that driving I-4 is more dangerous than entering Crusher’s lair. Yeah, no.

To complete the afternoon, we jumped in our car for the drive-through safari experience with zebras, gazelles, deer, bison and wildebeests. Pro tip: if your vehicle is approached by an ostrich, roll up your window! Cap of the drive by hand-feeding the girafe from an observation platform. Wild Florida is a terrific and fun experience for the whole family, and you’ll definitely get much more than you expect! Note the park is closed on Sundays. For more information, visit www.wildfloridairboats.com.

Daily airboat tours ofer you an in-depth look at Florida’s wildlife in their native habitat, with knowledgeable boat captains to enhance your experience.

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Brad Stager

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Libby Hopkins

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

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

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

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

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

SUMMER CAMPS OFFER SPECIALTY SKILLS & LEARNING FUN

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

Camp Osprey LLC

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

Mathnasium Of Riverview And Brandon

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

Music Showcase/FAOPA

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

Patel Conservatory

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

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

Kids ‘R’ Kids Circa

FishHawk

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

High 5 Inc.

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

YMCA

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

TLC’s Gypsy Haven

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

Sidekicks Summer Camp

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

D-BatSouth Shore

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

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

River Hills Country Club

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

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

Code Wiz FishHawk

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

Cedarkirk Camp

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

Ostingers Baseball Academy

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

FishHawk Fellowship Church

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

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

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

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

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

CAMP MATHNASIUM OFFERS ACTIVITIES TO MAKE MATH FUN

By Lily Belcher

Staf Report

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

By Lily Belcher

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TLC’s Gypsy Haven

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

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

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

Te Patel Conservatory

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

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

Tampa YMCA

Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA

kids crave at one of its many summer camp locations.

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

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

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

Camp Osprey LLC

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

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

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

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

Kids ‘R’ Kids

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

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

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

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

Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center

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

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

Code Wiz FishHawk

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

JUUNNIIOOR R SUMMMER C CAMP

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

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

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

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

has what

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

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

Music Showcase

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

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

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

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

River Hills Junior Summer Camp

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

High 5 Inc.

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

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

Camp is ofered Monday through Friday

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

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

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

D-BAT South Shore

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

Navigator Academy

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

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

Ostingers Baseball Academy

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

FishHawk Fellowship Church

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

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

Age Group: 7 - 14 yrs

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

$250/camper

$225/ multi camp or multi child discount

*Must register for multi camp discount all at once

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

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

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

By Jonathan Hurst

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

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

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

Tampa YMCA

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

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

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

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

BUSCH GARDENS FOOD & WINE FEST RETURNS WITH HEADLINE CONCERTS

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Food & Wine Festival will ofer guests a one-of-a-kind experience of flavor and rhythm from various latitudes of the world. The highly anticipated event will provide guests with an elevated culinary experience and the opportunity to enjoy live musical performances from some of the most popular artists in the entertainment industry. The event runs through Sunday, May 21, featuring a total of 20 food and beverage cabins for guests to sip and savor, as well as 23 live concerts. The Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival is included with park admission.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is dishing up a variety of headlining concerts for every taste as part of the Food & Wine Festival. Twenty-three headlining acts spanning genres of pop, rock, country and more will take the Festival Field Stage for 11 weekends jam-packed with rhythm and flavor, including Kansas, Maddie & Tae, SWV, Dustin Lynch, Rodney Atkins, Flo Rida, Jeremy Camp, +LIVE+, The Fab Four, 38 Special, Mitchell Tenpenny, Air Supply, Gabby Barrett, Hoobastank and WALK THE MOON.

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

SUMMER OF SONG AND DANCE RETURNS WITH MUSIC SHOWCASE

By Jonathan Hurst

Staf

Report

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

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

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

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

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

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

REGISTER

NOW

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

ing about how to put on a production and all the elements that go into that. These students will work on skills such as acting, singing and various theater techniques and practices. This camp concludes with a performance of a play featuring the campers.

Musical Theater Camp runs from 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

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

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

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

FOR 2023 SUMMER CAMP!

Also hiring for 2023 Summer Camp Counselors & Runners.

Summer Camp Includes:

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

Ofering at 3 loctions:

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

(813) 689-0908

405 Beverly Blvd Brandon, FL 33511-5507

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

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles presented by Tampa International Airport is a beloved one-day community event featuring a wide variety of family activities held each year at the Plant City Airport since 2010. It was one of the last public events held in 2020 just before the COVID crisis shuttered most gatherings, and after a 2-year hiatus it is making its highly anticipated 11th annual return on April 22, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Featured highlights will be numerous real aircraft on display, radio-controlled aircraft displays and demonstrations, a large car show, and operating model train layouts. A major LEGO display is scheduled featuring all modes of transportation. First responder vehicles and personnel along with train safety vehicles and equipment will also be in the lineup. There will be many hands-on stations for kids, including STEM education exhibits and flight simulators from SUN ‘n FUN’s Aerospace Center for Excellence, Young Eagles discovery flights conducted by Plant City Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 1178, Scout merit badge opportunities, a pinewood derby, and many other activities. Younger children will enjoy inflatable bounce houses and other fun adventures just for them! Food trucks and local vendor displays will also be part of the lineup where area businesses can showcase

TAMPA BAY RODEO AND FAMILY FESTIVAL RETURNS IN APRIL

Staf Report

their products and services to attendees.

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

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

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

Summer at Mathnasium!

Bigger and better than ever, the Tampa Bay Rodeo and Family Festival, presented by Bartow Ford, gallops into the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds now through Sunday, April 16 with fun-filled days of action, activities and eats.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FIRST

EXPERIENCED

ALLIANCE GOLF

AUTISM

TO BE HELD ON APRIL 28

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

TOURNAMENT

By Meghan Reyes

TAMPA THEATRE PRESENTS ANNUAL FAMILY FAVORITES CLASSIC MOVIE SERIES

By Kathy L. Collins

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The NeverEnding Story

The film is rated PG.

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

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

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

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

BRANDON BALLET TO PERFORM SLEEPING BEAUTY

The Brandon Ballet will perform Beauty on Saturday, April 29 at 7:30 p.m. at Riverview High School, located at 11311 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. The performance of ing Beauty

29th season, the Season of Discovery. Come see the talented young danc ers of the Brandon Bal let as they perform this Tchaikovsky classic.

Sleeping Beauty

Tickets are $35 for adults, $25 for chil dren and seniors and $15 for homeschool groups and students.

Courtney Moody, a professional dancer with the Brandon Ballet, will perform the lead role with technical mastery and artistic expression. Audiences of all ages will enjoy this family-friendly production of a wellloved classic tale.

Everyone knows the tale of Sleeping Beauty. The young heroine begins the tale as a sweet baby. In celebration of her new life, her parents throw her a party, inviting all of the kingdom’s finest people. Their guests wish her a good life, and four fairies bestow upon her magical gifts of character.

In an evil rage, the witch, Carabosse, casts a curse on the child: On her 16th birthday, Aurora will prick her finger on a spindle and die. The Lilac fairy dashes in to change the curse, making it so that Aurora will not die

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

By Kathy L. Collins

but instead fall into an enchanted sleep until a prince awakens her

On her 16th birthday, the kingdom is gathered to celebrate her coming of age. Many gifts are bestowed upon her. The evil witch, Carabosse, sneaks in and gifts the child a spindle. To her parents’ horror, she loves the mysterious thing and dances with it until she pricks her

Many years later, a young prince, Desiree, is wandering in the forest. Will he be the savior to the heroine and her subjects? Join the dancers of Brandon Ballet to watch this story unfold before your eyes and witness the magical awakening of the kingdom.

Hannah Townend, administrative director for the Brandon Ballet, said, “We exist to create a place where young and professional dancers can enjoy and express their love of dance in an excellent and professional way. From the youngest performers — our extras are as young as 7 — to our professional dancers, we strive to display excellence and joy in every event and production we bring to the Brandon area.”

For more information or to purchase tickets to Sleeping Beauty, please visit www. brandonballet.org/events/.

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

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

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

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

Music & Theater Summer

and point of pride to our amazing community.”

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

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

The zoo is located at 1101 W. Sligh Ave. in Tampa and open seven days a week (except Thanksgiving and Christmas) from 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. www.zootampa.org.

Musical Arts

Music & More Camp

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

• Free early drop off and late pick up

• Activities to explore instruments, acting, singing and art

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

(813) 490-ARTS (2787)

CAMPS FILL FAST!

Register online at FAOPA.org

• Scholarships and sibling discounts

Musical Theater Camps

• Productions for all ages and skill levels

For All Ages Located

• Elementary, Middle School, and High School productions

• Broadway Boot Camp - Broadway Artists To Attend

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

Photo courtesy of ZooTampa. Charlotte the Porcupine

Twin Creeks Celebrates Fiveyear Anniversary

Twin Creeks Assisted Living and Memory Care recently celebrated its five-year anniversary with a multichamber ribbon-cutting, which included Valrico FishHawk, Riverview and South County chambers of commerce. Twin Creeks is a state-of-the-art community with senior living professionals who are highly trained to ofer residents quality care and richness through stimulating activities and programs that make life more rewarding. It is located at 13470 Boyette Rd. in Riverview, just south of the Bell Shoals Road/FishHawk Boulevard/Boyette Road intersection. For more information, visit its website at www.twincreeksretire.com.

HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Receives Patient Safety Excellence Award™

HCA Florida Brandon Hospital has been recognized by Healthgrades as a 2023 Patient Safety Excellence Award™ recipient. This distinction places it among the top 10 percent of all short-term acute-care hospitals as evaluated by Healthgrades, the leading marketplace connecting patients and providers. “This award highlights HCA Florida Brandon Hospital and its caregivers who are committed to patients and safety standards,” said Tripp Owings, chief executive

ofcer at HCA Florida Hospital. “We take pride in meeting and exceeding established standards as we prevent serious patient injuries, avoid preventable complications and mortalities and eliminate harm throughout the hospital.”

White Oak Cottage Celebrates One-year Anniversary

The White Oak Cottage, a home decor boutique, recently celebrated the one-year anniversary of its upscale restaurant with a ribbon-cutting hosted by the Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce. Located at 10530 S. County Rd. 39 in Lithia, its restaurant hours are Wednesday to Sunday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Dinner reservations for between the hours of 5-8 p.m. are rec-

ommended; reserve by calling 813-6500054. For more information, visit www. thewhiteoakcottage.com.

PF Auto Glass Celebrates 29 Years In Business

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

glass and a full lifetime warranty on all car window repairs. For more information, visit www.pfautoglass.com or call 813-741-3633.

Mike Neill Joins Fidelity Mortgage Loans

The Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce celebrated a ribbon-cutting for Mike Neill with Fidelity Mortgage Loans. While Fidelity has been serving the Tampa Bay area since 1994, Mike is the newest representative in Valrico area. Connect with Mike on Facebook at mikeneillmortgagebrokerFL. For more information or for questions to help navigate this ever-changing lending market, visit www.mikeneillmortgagebroker.com, call 813-892-8666 or email mikeneillmlo@gmail.com.

Swing Band Concert At Presbyterian Church Of Bloomingdale

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

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

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

PLANT CITY ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS DEARLY DEPARTED

Plant City Entertainment will present the comedy Dearly Departed on Friday, April 28 and May 5; Saturday, April 29 and May 6; and Sunday, April 30 and May 7. The Friday and Saturday shows are at 8 p.m. The Sunday matinees are at 2 p.m.

Plant City Entertainment will ofer tickets for the opening night at $17.50. Thereafter, tickets are $23 for general admission, $18 for seniors and students and $16 for members and groups of 10 and more. You can get tickets by visiting www.plantcityentertainment.com.

Dearly Departed is a comedy written by David Bottrell and Jessie Jones, and it is directed by Plant City Entertainment founding member Jennifer Fenner. Plant City Entertainment was founded in 1980. Fenner said, “Dearly Departed marks the 18th show that I have directed with Plant City Entertainment. The shows have included comedies, revues and musicals. I have also been onstage, backstage and front of house. I have served in the role of president and other ofces over the years. Currently, I am a board member and serve on the Artistic Committee.”

THE MISSING PIECE THEATRE IS THE NEWEST COMMUNITY THEATER GROUP IN OUR AREA

Fenner said, “Dearly Departed is a Southern-fried comedy of caskets and country craziness [that] puts the ‘fun’ in funeral. In the Baptist backwoods of the Bible Belt, the beleaguered Turpin family proves that living and dying in the South are seldom tidy and always hilarious.”

Despite their earnest eforts to pull themselves together for their father’s funeral, the Turpins’ other problems keep overshadowing the solemn occasion.

Fenner, a Plant City native who had been gone from the area for number of years, said of the show, “I am excited to have my core production team of Shirley Outen as my assistant director, Linda Rembowski as stage manager, Kristin and Coy Permenter as set designer and set construction back with me. Dearly Departed will feature several cameo appearances by community leaders, and I am very excited for this.”

Plant City Entertainment is an arts nonprofit located in historic downtown Plant City. It is located at 101 N. Thomas St. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit www.plantcityentertainment. com or call 813-752-0728.

We have a new community theatre in the area. The Missing Piece Theatre Company was founded in late 2022 by several veteran actors and directors who have served other community theater groups, including the Village Players and Plant City Entertainment. The new group enjoys a supporting relationship with both theatre groups.

Steve Bucko of Lithia said, “The Missing Piece Theatre was founded by myself, Kristen Bucko (Lithia), April Golombek (Lakeland) and Jennifer Porter (Lithia).”

Lt. James McMillan (Stephen Stough) questions the butler, Hollister (Wayne Otto), and the victim’s sister, Beatrice (Debbie Scourtes), while the victim’s bitter wife, Allegra (Jennifer Grof ), and the cook, Ina (Julia Catlin) look on and try to look innocent.

Bucko added, “The Missing Piece Theatre Company was formed to create immersive arts experiences to stimulate curiosity and challenge audiences to join us in telling the next story. We exist to prioritize the audience as the essential component of theater. They are ‘The Missing Piece.’”

The Missing Piece Theatre is an all-volunteer community theater with professional quality that creates opportunities for professionals and beginners to come together to tell amazing stories.

Bucko said, “To visit the Gem Theater is to fall in love with it. Historic, yet newly renovated, it combines the look and feel of timeless vaudeville stages with superior acoustics, new technology and comfortable seating.”

The Missing Piece Theatre’s first production was The Plot, Like Gravy, Thickens by Billy St. John. Bucko said, “This show is an interactive, comedic murder mystery where the playwright himself takes the audience through the entire zany evening, including becoming both the murder victim and the detective. Add 13 other crazy characters, all with motive and opportunity, and you have a recipe for a hilarious night of theater.”

Bucko added, “Because we exist to serve the audience, it was important to us that the audience play a big role in our first production.”

Their next show is Seussical the Musical based on the works of Dr. Seuss. This will be performed from Friday, July 14 through Sunday, July 23.

Bucko said, “The Missing Piece Theatre Company is ready for you to get involved. Onstage, backstage and in our audience, we want to show you what theater feels like to put the audience front and center in the starring role. Whether it is our next production, Seussical, or a future show, we cannot wait to meet you. You are ‘The Missing Piece.’”

For more information on auditions and productions, you can visit www.themissingpiecetheatre.org. To get tickets, please visit www.centralfloridatix.com.

Te next show presented by Plant City Entertainment is the comedy Dearly Departed. Te show will be presented in April and May and will feature cameos of several local community leaders.

THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA CELEBRATES

55 YEARS IN SOLD-OUT ITZHAK PERLMAN BENEFIT CONCERT

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

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

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

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

Staf Report

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

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

About Itzhak Perlman

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

About Michael Francis

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

Itzhak Perlman, violin superstar at The Florida Orchestra.

THE BENEFITS OF EARLY EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN COME IN MANY FORMS

Preschool education comes in many forms and can be viewed as an investment in your child’s future. Children benefit from quality early childhood education in many ways, and it is the first step towards a bright and overall successful life.

A child’s early experiences can all be considered educational. Children are extremely curious and learn best through hands-on experiences; they also want their voices to be heard and to have a say in decision-making. These things all help them learn communication skills they will use every day. Hands-on learning also improves their daily task skills and gives them an understanding of the world around them.

Teamwork is another important skill for children to learn at a young age because it is a necessary skill to use on a day-to-day basis. At an early childhood education center, children will interact with their own age group and learn how to help others perform a common task and work cooperatively. Children require a lot of time and attention, and with an early childhood education as a fundamental part of their development, it is assured they get the exposure they need to devel-

By Loretta Ellison

op these important skills. Children will engage in outside playtime, inside free time as well as structured learning experiences in an early childhood center; plus, they will develop beneficial new abilities, and existing abilities will improve with practice.

Some feel a barrier to early education can be the cost. Tuition for many quality childcare programs can be very expensive, and many families are not able to enroll their child in a high-quality program due to finances. Thankfully, there are ways to circumvent this obstacle. Part-time care can be a good option for some families, as this will create less of a financial burden. Additionally, the state of Florida has programs to support many families with this expense. There are also government and state-funded agencies available to assist families with finding and paying for quality childcare services; Hillsborough County School Readiness, Head Start and Voluntary Pre-K (VPK) are just a few options. Visit https://www.elchc.org/ for more details on these and other programs. The time a child spends in an early childhood education program has a positive impact on their life for years to come.

Michael Francis, Music Director

Early childhood education helps develop young minds — one brush stroke at a time.

BUDDY CRUISE ANNOUNCES TWO LOCAL SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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