Osprey Observer Valrico May 2023

BUSCH GARDENS HONORS MILITARY WITH FREE PARK ADMISSION FOR ACTIVE DUTY, VETERANS AND FAMILIES Staf Report

BULLFROG CREEK BREWING CO. CELEBRATES FIVE YEARS OF COMMUNITY EVENTS

By Marie Gilmore

Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay is honoring military veterans and up to three guests with free one-day admission to its parks from now through Sunday, July 9. Active-duty military and their guests continue to enjoy one-day complimentary admission throughout the year. The ofers are part of Busch Gardens’ long-standing Waves of Honor program that salutes active-duty military members, veterans and their families by ofering special pricing and promotions throughout the year.

For more than 20 years, Busch Gardens has been proud to provide complimentary park access to members of the United States military. More than 10 million guests — active-duty military members, veterans and their families — have enjoyed free admission to the company’s parks. Whether it’s educational animal experiences or thrilling attractions, Busch Gardens invites military families for a day of family fun.

“We take great pride in providing military members and their families the opportunity to create memories at one of our parks,” said Marc Swanson, chief executive ofcer of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. “Extending free park admission to military service members, veterans and their families allows us to show our utmost appreciation to all the brave individuals who serve and sacrifice for our county. We are hon-

ored to continue this long-standing tradition as a small gesture of our deep gratitude towards members of our military.”

Eligible U.S. military veterans and retirees can register for complimentary single-day tickets for themselves and up to three dependents before Sunday, May 14 at www.wavesofhonor.com. After registering, all tickets must be redeemed at the park by July 9.

U.S. active-duty, activated or drilling reservist and National Guardsmen also can take advantage of one complimentary admission for themselves and up to three dependents per year to Busch Gardens. Additional discounts and ofers are available for active military and veterans through MWR and ITT ofces on U.S. military bases and online at www.wavesofhonor.com. These ofers are available year-round and may difer by park.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the ultimate family adventure, ofering 300 acres of fascinating attractions based on exotic explorations around the world. Busch Gardens is a unique blend of thrilling rides, an AZA-accredited zoo with thousands of animals representing more than 200 species and exciting seasonal events all year, providing unrivaled experiences for guests of every age.

For more information, visit www.buschgardenstampa.com.

Five years ago, longtime local residents and business owners Jamie Ratclif and his wife, Kelly, opened Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. in an abandoned gas station in the heart of the Bloomingdale community.

Well today, that little gas station in the Erindale Plaza is a 3,000 sq. ft. center core of activity, events, members, fresh brews, live music, charitable events, markets and all embraced within a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.

And credit has to be given to a business that not only survived the 2020 shutdown and pandemic but is also constantly evolving its business model, even making to-go cases of beer, cider and root beer and ofering curbside delivery.

As Valrico’s first brewery, Ratclif, a proud veteran, is also proud of the business they have created, and he said, “We love this community and we love to drink our beer with friends and family. Community is everything to us and we love to give back.”

And give back they do. Ratclif estimates that over the five years and hundreds of music bingo events, local nonprofits have raised more than $400,000 thanks in part to a generous program where Bullfrog provides the equipment and the preregistered charity provides the audience, the sales team and the prizes.

Bullfrog is a fully working brewery and pub under the supervision of head brewer Nicholas DiGioia and general manager Alex Volovar. Iconic local brews in-

and the newest addition, Pizza Rock IPA.

“Our team is passionate about beer and the art of brewing,” said Ratclif. “We believe in using only the finest ingredients to create unique and delicious beers that are sure to satisfy the taste buds of even the most discerning craft beer enthusiasts.” Over the five years, Bullfrog has created 386 beers, served 6.4 million ounces of beer and had 340 beers gifted to visiting veterans.

In addition to the best local brews, Bullfrog Creek has a full-time dedicated food truck serving pub favorite, such as burgers, fries, wings and more, directed by head chef Cormac McCarthy.

Bullfrog Creek opened to the public in March 2018 and is dedicated to crafting high-quality, innovative beers for beer lovers in the community. It is located at 3632 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. Hours are Monday through Thursday, 12 Noon-10 p.m.; Friday through Saturday, 12 Noon-11 p.m.; and Sunday, 12 Noon8 p.m. Visit www.bullfrogcreekbrewing. com for a full listing of upcoming events.

IN THIS ISSUE:

$1 MINI-GOLF PG 3

ALL PRO DAD PG 5

MUSEUM OF ART .......PG 9

EYE ON BUSINESS................PGS 25-26

AGEREJUVENATION PG 26

One of our all-time Tim Burton favorites, Beetle Juice, comes to life at the Straz Center for the 23/24 season. Te slate also includes Funny Girl, Mrs. Doubtfre, Peter Pan, Clue, Moulin

Superstar, THE BOOK OF MORMON and Les Misérables.

clude Buckhorn Baltic Porter, Bloomingdale Brown, Alafia Wheat

Valrico’s own Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. owners Jamie and Kelly Ratclif

Live music, trivia, music bingo, car shows, festivals, events & more can be found every night.

$1 BUCKET OF BALLS OR MINI-GOLF AT ACE GOLF THIS SUMMER

Are the kids driving you crazy and playing too many video games this summer?

Want to have them do something healthy and learn a lifelong sport?

Ace Golf is ofering a $1 summer golf practice program for kids ages 4-15. Every day from Thursday, June 1 through Thursday, August 31, kids can sign up to receive a $1 small bucket of range balls and/or a $1 round of miniature golf each day for the whole summer.

Kids will hit the balls on the practice ranges and miniature golf courses at bay-area Ace Golf locations. And it’s all just $1 per activity.

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

How it works:

• Children may sign up for free at any of three Ace Golf locations in Riverview, Land O’ Lakes and Tarpon Springs.

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

• Each time the child redeems their free bucket, they will get a stamp on their card noting the redemption. An adult must accompany them.

• No other purchase is necessary. Kids

HILLSBOROUGH 100 CONSERVATION CHALLENGE RECOGNIZES SUPPORT

By Linda Chion

should bring a golf club with them, or they may rent one.

• Miniature golf is available at the Land O’ Lakes and Riverview locations.

In addition to the Free Bucket or Mini Golf program, kids may also play golf for $1 when accompanied by a paying parent at all Ace Golf Courses (18hole golf courses) after 12 Noon every day starting June 1 through the end of October.

Ace Golf Range is located at 12910 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. It is open daily until 10 p.m. The facilities feature lighted golf practice ranges, miniature golf and batting cages.

Ace Golf Courses include the Plantation Palms Golf Club in Land O’ Lakes (813996-4653; website: www.plantationpalms.net), and the Crescent Oaks Country Club at 3300 Crescent Oaks Boulevard in Tarpon Springs (727-937-4653; website: www.crescentoaksgolf.com).

All Ace Golf Courses are open to the public and ofer membership, dining and banquet centers.

Ace Golf is locally, family-owned by Su Lee and Place since 1993. In addition to the $1 kids’ program, each location ofers summer golf camps, clinics and private and group golf lessons. For more information, visit https://ace-golf.com/ or call 813-672-7750.

Award recipients and supporter testimonials gave color to the stories that unravel annually as part of the Hillsborough 100 Conservation Challenge, which kicked of with a well-attended luncheon and awards ceremony.

Held this year on April 12 at The Regent in Riverview, Betty Jo Tompkins, executive director of the Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District (HSWCD), emceed the ceremony, first held in 2017.

“The idea behind the challenge is at the very core of what our conservation district stands for, and that is that conservation is everybody’s business,” Tompkins said, noting the involvement of agricultural interests, schools, civic organizations, businesses, service clubs, individuals, families and more in action awareness projects. “We take a womb-to-tomb approach. If you’re alive and breathing, we have a program for you.”

Along with 16 mini grants and two student scholarships, the luncheon ceremony recognized the 2023 Outstanding Supporter, Outstanding Project and Outstanding Cooperating Partner.

On behalf of herself and her staf, Janet Lorton, executive director of the Hillsborough County Environmental Protection Commission, accepted the award for Outstanding Cooperating Partner.

Having grown up on a 3,000-acre cow farm that’s now developed, and active in 4-H, through which she showed cattle,

Lorton said it is imperative to “continue working to save the environment,” especially in light of the community’s burgeoning growth.

Hillsborough County Property Appraiser Bob Henriquez, who could not make the luncheon, was recognized with his staf as the Outstanding Supporter of the Year.

On behalf of the Hillsborough County Fair, Robert Grifn, chair of the Greater Hillsborough County Fair Board of Directors, accepted the award for Outstanding Project of the Year. The fair each year on the last Sunday of its 11-day run hosts the HSWCD Great Plant Auction, which raised roughly $8,000 in 2022. The money funded two $1,000 scholarships and the $250 minigrant awards.

The Roy Gene Davis Scholarship, named for the plant auction chair and auctioneer, went to Morgan Chancey, president of the Turkey Creek 4-H Club. Madison Leiner received the Michael Hepburn Memorial Scholarship, named posthumously for the former HSWCD board chair and beloved Riverview High teacher.

In kicking of the awards ceremony, Jackie Barren, of The Mosaic Co., the luncheon sponsor, welcomed the more than 170 attendees as she praised the work of Tompkins. “I don’t need to tell this crowd, when Betty Jo calls you, answer on the first ring,” Barren said.

For more information, visit www.hillsboroughswcd.com.

Ace Golf is ofering a $1 summer golf practice program for kids ages 4-15 from June through August.

Janet Lorton (second from the left), executive director of the Hillsborough County Environmental Protection Commission (EPC), and her staf accept the Hillsborough 100 award on behalf of the EPC.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fctitious name of INTEGRITY POOL-SPAS & REPAIRS LLC DBA A.P. WATER SOLUTIONS LLC located at P.O. BOX 1008, in Hillsborough County, in the City of Riverview, Florida, 33568, 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 May 2023

ALL PRO DAD CONTINUES GROWTH NATIONWIDE WITH SOLD OUT ANNUAL EVENT AND PROGRAMS

All Pro Dad, a Tampa-based nonprofit, has completed yet another successful event, this time on March 25 at Raymond James Stadium. The soldout All Pro Dad Experience event had over 1,000 dads and their kids in attendance. Attendees were able to engage in a variety of football-oriented activities from the start at 9 a.m. until the event ended at 12 Noon. There were football drills as well as tickle-tackle and touchdown dancing available across the field; plenty of laughter and smiles were also had.

While All Pro Dad might have started in Tampa, where it operates to this day, it has extended far across the nation, as there are now over 1,000 All Pro Dad chapters across over 40 states. This growth has allowed founder Mark Merrill to impact thousands of children and dads across the country.

“Over 20 years ago, former Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Indianapolis Colts head coach Tony Dungy and I founded All Pro Dad. With the mission to help fathers love and lead their families well, All Pro Dad o f ers resources, training and events. We believe a great way to help fathers become even better leaders in their families is by dedicating one minute a day, one hour a month and one day a year to this goal,” Merrill said.

With increasingly large national operations, All Pro Dad continues to maintain a strong presence in the Tampa

By Jonathan Hurst

area, having 62 active chapters within Hillsborough County. These chapters have ingrained themselves within the culture of the schools and engage with the dads and kids in several ways, one of which is the breakfast program. Through this program, dads are able to have breakfast at school with their children, which in turn helps build their relationship through one-onone time and camaraderie with other dads and children. Attendance at these events can reach up to 200 dads and kids.

All Pro Dad has recently developed multiple new programs to help foster healthy relationships between dads and their children. One of these is a national curriculum for middle and high schools that allows for the All Pro Dad message to e f ectively reach all ages. An additional program, Serve, gives dads the opportunity to volunteer at the school to allow teachers and administrators to focus on what they do best: helping to provide the best educational environment for the kids. This could be anything from operating the car line in the mornings to lunch assistance, or any other applicable school need.

Through its numerous programs and extensive outreach, All Pro Dad is making a positive impact among youths and hopes to continue to do so in larger and larger ways. For more information, visit its website at www.allprodad.com or its Facebook page, All Pro Dad.

Kids and their dads were able to run out of the tunnel at the All Pro Dad Experience at Raymond James Stadium.

Dads and their kids engage in activities on the feld at Raymond James during the All Pro Dad Experience.

THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA’S NEW SEASON CELEBRATES MUSIC OF

The Florida Orchestra (TFO) will celebrate the unique musical language of America in its new 2023-24 season this fall. Inspired by the 100th anniversary of Gershwin’s groundbreaking Rhapsody in Blue, music director Michael Francis is featuring a wide range of American composers from Aaron Copland to Wynton Marsalis alongside global masterpieces by Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Mozart, Dvorak and more. In September, he launches the premier Hough Family Foundation Masterworks series with a bang: Holst’s The Planets paired with the thrilling Percussion Collective. In the Raymond James Pops series, the circus meets the symphony in Cirque Dances with Troupe Vertigo, in addition to Twist & Shout, a tribute to 60 years of The Beatles in America; a supersonic SciFi Spectacular of space-themed movies and TV music; and the very merry tradition of Holiday Pops.

“This season, we’ll take audiences on a journey across America’s musical landscape as we explore our musical roots and where we are today. Alongside the story of American music, we will delight our Tampa Bay community with beloved classics from around the world,” said Francis. “New this season will be secret ‘mystery pieces’ — moments of discovery and fun that won’t be listed in the program. We remain passionate about reflecting the diferent cultures that make up Tampa Bay and beyond.”

At the heart of TFO’s 56th season, Maestro Francis will conduct featured soloist

Stewart Goodyear in Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue (February 1718, 2024). This masterpiece combined jazz and classical to change music forever when it premiered 100 years ago in 1924.

The concert will spotlight works by three more American composers: Marsalis’ Herald, Holler & Hallelujah; Mason Bates’ Alternative Energy; and Leonard Bernstein’s Three Dance Episodes from On the Town

For the first time ever, all 13 Hough Family Foundation Masterworks concerts will include a surprise, unlisted ‘mystery piece’ personally chosen by Francis.

This October brings another important American masterpiece, Copland’s Appalachian Spring (Saturday and Sunday, October 21-22), showcasing the beauty of the distinctly American sound. The program also features Grammy-nominated baritone Jubilant Sykes performing American spirituals that highlight our African American heritage.

For 2024, more big moments in TFO’s core classical series include Dvorak’s New World Symphony (April 12-14), Beethoven’s heroic Eroica Symphony (April 5-7, 2024), Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6 (January 19-20) and Elgar’s Enigma Variations (May 17-19). The series wraps up with Mahler’s epic Symphony No. 2, “Resurrection” (May 25-26), which features the Master Chorale of Tampa Bay.

For more information and season tickets, visit https://floridaorchestra.org/.

DOWNTOWN MURALS CREATE OUTDOOR ART MUSEUM

What do Tom Brady, Tweety Bird and Freddy Mercury all have in common? They are all subjects of murals located in beautiful downtown Tampa.

Whether you drive, bike or scooter, find a beautiful day and trek to the city for a fun and adventurous mural tour.

From Ybor City to the Channelside District to Ashley Street, there is an eclectic collection of art, much of which was commissioned by the City of Tampa. For an interesting and in-depth compilation, you can visit www.tampasdowntown.com or Google Tampa’s Downtown Mural Tour.

To highlight a small, yet dense, sampling of the mural art in Tampa, we start at Cass Street, west of Nebraska Avenue, where you will find the Tampa Firefighters Museum on your left with a beautifully painted flag covering the entire north side of the building. On the right, see one of Tampa’s largest murals on the Navara Apartments, featuring legendary musicians Elton John, Freddie Mercury and Jimi Hendrix.

Head north on to Florida Avenue and discover a plethora of interesting murals,

By Kerrie Hoening

including a few pictures of Tom Brady and the famous Florida Avenue Mural, also known as the ‘Tampa Postcard,’ depicting images of Tampa’s past and present. Head further north, crossing under the I-275 corridor, and you suddenly happen upon a whole new world of wall art on every building. On neighboring Franklin Street, many of the murals cover entire buildings. If driving, you’ll probably need to park and then enjoy a leisurely stroll around the whole block.

After a brief respite at Armature Works, you’ll head south on Tampa Street, driving back toward the city. Here, at 1715 N Tampa St., you will find the poignant Kobe and Gianna Bryant mural, lovingly titled Daddy’s Little Girl. A little further down, you’ll also notice a couple of Tweety Bird murals, freshly painted to celebrate the 80th birthday of Tweety Bird. As you cross back under the interstate, Tampa’s newest mural, only weeks old, can be found on the right, stating the obvious for all who live in our great city, “We Love Downtown.”

Lady Gaga.

Yellow Brick Row.

Maestro Michael Francis, music director at Te Florida Orchestra.

BIKES FOR CHRIST HELPS THOSE WHO TRY TO HELP THEMSELVES

People who are trying to get their lives back on track often find many obstacles, such as lack of transportation, to be an impediment to their goal. In an efort to help those who are trying to help themselves, Bikes

For Christ was established in 2016.

According to the founder, Pat Simmons, “Our goal is to help those who are trying to help themselves.” Simmons added, “We work directly with case managers at agencies that provide services to those in need. If they feel an individual is truly making life-changing decisions for the better, and a bicycle would benefit them, they can place an order with us.”

Bikes For Christ also works with area employers and schools.

An example of this is the work Bikes For Christ does with the Hillsborough County Sherif ’s Department in its Reentry and Homeless Initiative. Another example is its work with Cove Behavior Health (formerly known as DACCO). Other organizations include Metropolitan Ministries, Catholic Charities and the Tampa Veterans Administration.

Bikes For Christ is an all-volunteer organization. It has approximately 10-11 volun-

By Kathy L. Collins

teers and has separate team members that work on the bike repairs and the deliveries. It also has volunteers that represent the organization at local chamber meetings and events. These include outreach events, outdoor markets and expos. At these events, the volunteers share the mission of Bikes For Christ.

Bikes For Christ are seeking donations of primarily men’s bikes. You can drop of men’s bikes at several local locations, including Beef ’O’ Brady’s, located at 210 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon; Brandon Bikeworks, located at 6048 Winthrop Town Centre Ave. in Riverview; and Jarrett Scott Ford, located at 2000 E. Baker St. in Plant City. If you cannot drop of your donation of a men’s bike, you can complete a form online to make arrangements for volunteers to pick up the bike.

Please note it is not accepting children’s bikes at this time.

In addition to donations of men’s bikes, Bikes For Christ is also in need of monetary donations. According to Simmons, “Our biggest need right now is a new building so we can continue to help those in need.”

For more information, please visit www. bikes4christ.com.

NEW HORIZONS GROUP HOME CELEBRATES 24 YEARS

New Horizons Group Home has been part of the Brandon community for 24 years. They will be hosting an anniversary luncheon on Saturday, June 10. “This is a great opportunity to learn more about New Horizons and its history that has brought us to where we are today,” said Brenda Watkins of New Horizons Group Home Inc. “There will be a delicious lunch and a short presentation by our residents.”

New Horizons Group Home has been part of the Brandon Community for 24 years. It will be hosting an anniversary luncheon on Saturday, June 10. Tickets for the organization’s upcoming luncheon are $25 for an individual ticket or $175 for a table of eight. Te deadline for purchasing tickets is Saturday, June 3.

In 1992, several parents, teachers and friends of members of the Special Ministries Department of First Baptist Church Brandon identified a need for long-term living facilities for developmentally disabled men and women. A committee was formed to investigate the requirements to undertake this task. Out of this group, New Horizons Group Homes was born.

The mission of New Horizons Group Homes is to provide a family-oriented Christian group home living environment that supports adults with disabilities to help them achieve their highest potential for independence through a variety of services emphasizing faith, family, choice, independence, dignity and respect. “It is amazing to look back to when New Horizons was just an idea with a group of people wanting to make it into a reality,” Watkins said. “We all wanted a Christian home with a family

By Libby Hopkins

atmosphere, and the most important thing to me is that it has remained just that. Our daughter has been in the home since the first one opened in June of 1999, and she loves being there.

As parents, my husband and I are so happy when she is at our home and are also happy to see that she loves going back to her home. It has been so heartwarming to see how all of the residents have blossomed over the years. The very best part of this whole experience has been seeing how God has provided for all of our needs.”

New Horizons is home to 16 residents. “We have two homes for men and one for ladies, and we currently have openings for three men,” Watkins said. “Our homes are based on Christian principles and have a family atmosphere where our residents are encouraged to reach their full potential. They have gained a wonderful sense of independence while having 24/7 supervision. Six of our residents work in the community, while the others go to diferent day programs.”

Tickets for the organization’s upcoming luncheon are $25 for an individual ticket or $175 for a table of eight. The deadline for purchasing tickets is Saturday, June 3. If you’d like to learn more about New Horizons Group Homes, visit www.newhorizonshomes.org.

Bikes For Christ works with local organizations, employers and schools to get bikes to people who are trying to make truly life-changing decisions for the better. If a bike will beneft them, they can get a bike.

COME SEE A FANTASTIC MAP EXHIBIT FEATURING THE FLORIDA KEYS AT THE TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER

By Kathy L. Collins

SPRINGS YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

By Madison Trowbridge, Ph.D., Springs Scientist

There’s a new exhibit at the Tampa Bay History Center, and it is called Key West and the Florida Keys: Mapping the History of the Conch Republic. The exhibit is on display now through Sunday, October

15 in the Saunders Foundation Gallery.

Key West and the Florida Keys have played an outsized role in Florida’s history. The Keys first appeared on a Spanish map in 1511, and they had been home to the Tequesta and Calusa for thousands of years. In modern times, Key West was at one point the largest city in Florida. It was home to wreckers, cigar makers, fisherfolk and other colorful characters.

The exhibit features historical and modern maps and charts. There are nearly 50 maps and charts in the exhibit. The oldest map is the 1511 Peter Martyr map of the Caribbean, and the newest is a 1988 map showing diferent locations of shipwrecks and (potential) sunken treasure. The History Center may add a 21st-century tourist map.

Every map in the exhibit is from the Tampa Bay History Center’s Touchton Map Library Collection. Rodney Kite-Powell, director of the Touchton Map Library, explained, “The Touchton Map Library and Florida Center for Cartographic Education is the only cartographic center in the southeastern United States and is one of only 14 cartographic centers in the country.”

The Touchton Map Library holds approximately 8,000 maps, charts, atlases and other cartographic materials. All of it focuses on Florida.

Kite-Powell said, “Because of Florida’s unique geographical location and its very long political and military history, the collection includes hundreds of maps of the Caribbean and the southeastern United States. The Touchton Map Library encourages research within the collection and hosts two temporary exhibitions each year. Those exhibitions are held within the Saunders Foundation Gallery.”

Kite-Powell added, “The exhibit showcases the important and interesting history of Key West and the Florida Keys. Key West, in particular, was the most strategic and economically important city in Florida in the latter half of the 19th century. Its isolation and the lack of a reliable and continuous source of fresh water hampered its continued growth and development, and the island city was eventually eclipsed by other coastal cities, particularly Tampa. Shifting to tourism, the Keys and Key West became a playground for Floridians and Americans in general, and today it is one of the largest tourist destinations in the country.”

The Tampa Bay History Center is located at 801 Water St. in downtown Tampa. For more information, please visit www.tampabayhistorycenter.org.

Q: What is a spring?

A: A spring occurs when groundwater that is under pressure flows through natural cracks in the aquifer and creates a natural opening in the ground. The pressure causes the water to flow from the aquifer to the earth’s surface. Our groundwater is the result of seasonal rainfall that soaks into the ground and into the aquifer. Springs can occur as an individual vent but more often as many spring vents, known as a spring group.

Q: What is a springshed?

A: A springshed is an area of land that captures rainwater and supplies the groundwater to a spring. A springshed can be quite large. For example, the Rainbow Springs Group has a springshed that covers several hundred square miles and extends into three counties. The water travel time in a springshed to the spring can vary from hours to several decades, but this water will eventually flow out of the spring vent. It is often said that a spring is only as healthy as its springshed because actions that occur many miles away can have a direct efect on the health of the spring and the water flowing from it.

Q: Why are springs important?

A: Florida’s springs and their associated rivers and bays provide ecological, economic, recreational, and aesthetic value to the state. Springs are often called windows to the aquifer because the water that flows out of them comes directly from the aquifer, and therefore should be protected from harm. A spring’s rivers and bays can provide activities like swimming, kayaking and nature watching, to name a few. The Florida Springs Coast provides the largest natural warm-water refuge in the United States for the Florida manatee, with seasonal num-

bers in the hundreds. People come from around the world to visit these gentle creatures, resulting in a large economic impact for the surrounding communities.

Q: What makes a healthy spring?

A: Characteristics of healthy springs include the quantity of flow, water chemistry (especially the amount of nutrients) and the type and amount of aquatic vegetation, fish and wildlife present. Levels of spring flow afect the appearance and the ecology of the rivers and bays that are fed by these springs.

Q: How can I help protect Florida’s springs at home?

A: What we do in the springshed impacts the springs even if we don’t live close to a spring. Limit fertilizer use because excess fertilizer can seep into the aquifer. Inspect your septic tank every few years, as tanks that are not properly maintained can pollute the aquifer. Never dump anything down a storm drain and always dispose of grass clippings, litter, motor oil and pet waste properly. Always dispose of hazardous household chemicals etc. at an approved facility. Remember, both our drinking water and springs can become harmed.

Q: How can I help protect Florida’s springs while visiting them?

A: While swimming and snorkeling, please make sure to avoid disturbing the plants and wildlife. Try to stay in your vessel, if possible. If you have to leave the vessel, tie of in shallow waters and avoid docking on riverbanks. Don’t climb trees or use rope swings, as these can damage the shoreline vegetation. Be mindful if weighing anchor and make sure not to drag your anchor, as it may damage the aquatic plants and bottom habitats. And always remember to pack out all your trash. Help us protect our springs.

Te Tampa Bay History Center in downtown Tampa has an exciting new exhibit featuring maps, both historical and modern as well as charts, known as Key West and the Florida Keys: Mapping the History of the Conch Republic.

iSPY TEACHES STEM TO LOCAL PRESCHOOL STUDENTS

The mission of the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County is to provide children, from birth to 5 years old, a high-quality, equitable and inclusive early learning experience to prepare them for success in school and life through the collaboration of families, educators and the community.

Te Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County created a free program that brings STEM to preschoolers. iSpy Tampa Bay has been brought to more than 100 classrooms so far, and it’s looking to add more. Schools in Valrico and Riverview are currently using the iSpy program.

Recently, the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County created a free program that brings STEM to preschoolers. iSpy Tampa Bay has been brought to more than 100 classrooms so far, and it’s looking to add more. Schools in Valrico and Riverview are currently using the iSpy program. “The Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County created the program because state tests show only half of kids in Tampa Bay are ready for kindergarten,” said Alison Fraga, chief development ofcer for the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County, “so thousands of kids are starting school each year without the basic skills they need to succeed. This STEM program is one way to fix that.”

The Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County, in partnership with ZooTampa, The Florida Aquarium and the Glazer Children’s Museum, strives to improve reading, science and mathematics

TAMPA MUSEUM OF ART’S CENTENNIAL RENOVATION CELEBRATED WITH THE OPENING OF SEVEN NEW EXHIBITION SPACES

By Libby Hopkins

literacies among preschool students ages 3-5 through playbased learning activities.

The iSpy Tampa Bay program provides the opportunity to engage children in science and nature play both in the classroom and at home. The program promotes natural curiosity, increases vocabulary and sparks imagination. “Each child gets a backpack full of STEM learning tools like magnifying glasses and binoculars,” Fraga said. “Kids also get a free family membership to the Glazer Children’s Museum, The Florida Aquarium and ZooTampa. Plus, teachers get special training to use STEM to help kids learn the key skills they need like math, reading and vocabulary.”

Only half of Tampa Bay’s students are entering kindergarten with the skills needed to succeed in school, according to state testing. “iSpy Tampa Bay is aiming to reverse that trend by bringing STEM learning into child care centers and preschools by using fun play to teach real science, math and reading skills,” Fraga said.

If you would like to learn more about the programs ofered by the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County or if you want to learn more about its iSpy Tampa Bay program, visit www.elchc.org.

The Tampa Museum of Art is thrilled to announce the ofcial opening of seven new exhibition spaces. During the museum’s recently held Renovation Celebration, Tampa Bay’s leaders, museum benefactors and members gathered to mark the conclusion of the museum’s Centennial Renovation project phase, which began construction in mid-2021. The new spaces include the transformation of underused storage rooms into the Vinik Family Education Center and seven new exhibition galleries. The spaces are designed by New York-based WEISS/MANFREDI Architecture/Landscape/Urbanism, the firm also responsible for the expansion of the existing museum building.

With the completion of the renovation phase of the Centennial Renovation and Expansion, the museum’s exhibition and collection space has grown from 14,800 square feet to more than 43,000 square feet, including a renovated sculpture gallery on the first floor and a flexible multimedia gallery space on the second floor. The lobby of the existing building has been remodeled into a sculpture atrium, making art the focus of the visitor experience immediately upon entering the building.

The education spaces, now known as the new Vinik Family Education Center, have also grown from 1,400 square feet to more than 8,000 square feet.

To date, the Vinik Family Education Center has served over 12,000 adults, children

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and teens through camps, studio classes, tours, art-therapy-informed programs and more.

“The Renovation Celebration marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Tampa Museum of Art,” said Michael Tomor, the Tampa Museum of Art’s Penny and Jef Vinik executive director. “With our expanded exhibition and education spaces, we are thrilled to be able to showcase the diverse work of so many talented artists and ofer more programming to our visitors. We look forward to continuing to represent the vibrant community that we serve.”

As part of the realignment of space, WEISS/MANFREDI designed a new transparent facade surrounding the first floor of the museum, allowing the community to experience the museum’s mission 365 days a year.

The next phase will be the construction of a stunning 55,000-square-foot expansion, which will transform the museum into a vibrant hub of art and culture. Designed as a crystalline pier extending the museum to the edge of the river, the new expansion will create a series of interconnected, multifunctional spaces that triple the event space from 7,200 square feet to 25,600 square feet. The new addition will include a 150-seat auditorium, an art lounge, a large event space and a rooftop event venue, all of which will provide flexible settings for a wide range of art and cultural programming.

A rendering of the Tampa Museum of Art’s new Education Center, as seen from outside along Curtis Hixon Park.

HIGH 5 INC. TO HOST FREE COMMUNITY EVENT FOR 60TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

By Lily Belcher

“Her two sons still remain in the program today, and High 5/ Team TRIDENT wanted to create a way to celebrate her forever,” said Spano. “… All proceeds benefit our special-needs education pillar by providing supplies and resources for projects just like this one.”

Marine Families, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization is dedicated to their mission to honor, support, educate and inspire military, veterans and their families. Marine Families was founded in 2004 by Cyd Deathe, the organization’s executive director.

By Kathy L. Collins

Ribbon Project. They o f er free, personalized deployment ribbons to Marine families all over the globe.

High 5 Inc. is celebrating its 60th anniversary on Saturday, May 20 with free activities and games for the community and the dedication of their new memorial garden.

The event will be held to celebrate 60 years of teaching community members of all ages how to swim and be safe in the water. High 5 will host games, guest speakers, activities and food for those who come to the celebration.

“This will be a free community event where not only will we be celebrating 60 years of impact and driving our mission in the Brandon community and beyond, but we will also be hosting our Blue Wave Swim-A-Thon, Candy Corsi Memorial Garden Dedication, Pool Project Dedication [and] celebrating National Learn to Swim Day,” said director of family experience Jada Spano.

The Memorial Garden will be dedicated to Candy Corsi, former director of Training and Recreation for the Intellectually Disabled, Enhancing Their Natural Talents (TRIDENT), who passed away in 2021.

Team TRIDENT has learned hydroponics and basic craftsmanship skills during the construction of the memorial garden. While the garden is still being built, it will be dedicated at the event to encourage the community to visit in the future.

In addition to six decades of teaching individuals how to swim, High 5 has served the community with an emphasis on its five pillars: after-school, learn to swim, special-needs education, sports and recreation and community partnerships.

“We encourage families, friends, athletes, past/present program participants, community leaders and businesses, and everyone else, to come enjoy this memorable day with us,” said Spano.

The anniversary celebration will take place at the High 5 facility from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. High 5 is located of U.S. Highway 60 on Beverly Boulevard.

To donate to the memorial garden, visit https://qtego.net/donate/trident. For information on the nonprofit organization, visit www.high5inc.org or call 813-689-0908.

Deathe said, “I established Marine Families because my son was going into the Marines, and I knew he was going to war. I founded the organization because I needed support.”

Marine Families, a local nonproft, supports military, veterans and their families in a variety of ways, from monthly lunches and free Yellow Deployment Ribbons to the Krewe of Semper Fi.

To date, Marine Families has provided over 5,000 ribbons. The Yellow Ribbons are a reminder to all that military men and women who are deployed serve in harm’s way. If you have a deployed service person in your family, you can fill out a form to request a ribbon by visiting www.militaryfamilies.org.

Marine Families is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to supporting military, veterans and their families. United in teamwork, they continue to improve events, programs and projects ofered by the organization.

Marine Families’ projects include providing support to local Marines through monthly lunches ofered at the 4th AAVBN (Assault Amphibian Battalion) Marine Base located at 5121 Gandy Blvd. in Tampa. Each month, Marine Families provides lunch. This is done in partnership with local businesses and organizations that sponsor the meal. If you are interested in partnering with Marine Families on this project, please call Deathe at 813965-2682.

Marine Families also ofers a Yellow

Marine Families also sponsors Krewe of Semper Fi. It has a float and takes local military, veterans and their families during Tampa’s parade season. The Krewe of Semper Fi was established in 2018.

Military, veterans and their families who live locally in the Greater Brandon area can benefit from the projects and programs o f ered by Military Families. It has 35 regular volunteers but is always in need of hardworking volunteers. Moreover, as this is an all-volunteer organization, donations in any amount are greatly appreciated.

Deathe said, “Although we are not in war, we have military men and women who need our support on a daily basis.”

For information, visit www.marinefamilies.org.

MARINE FAMILIES IS AN ORGANIZATION DEDICATED TO HELPING MILITARY, VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES

STRAZ ’23/’24 BANK OF AMERICA BROADWAY SEASON

The Straz Center for the Performing Arts is thrilled to announce the 2023-2024 Bank of America Broadway at The Straz season, supported in part by the Tampa Bay Times, ofcial media sponsor of The Straz. The slate includes Beetlejuice, Funny Girl, Company, Girl From the North Country, Mrs. Doubtfire, Peter Pan, Clue and, for a twoweek engagement, the Tony Award®-winning best musical Moulin Rouge! The Musical. The season also features The Choir of Man in the intimate Jaeb Theater. In addition to the nine-show package, the season hosts encore engagements of Jesus Christ Superstar, THE BOOK OF MORMON and Les Misérables

“Our 2023-2024 Bank of America Broadway at The Straz season will give our audiences wonderful new experiences,” said Straz Center President and CEO Greg Holland. “As always, the season is anchored with the most compelling Broadway musicals. For the upcoming season, we’re working with the producers of London’s West End musical The Choir of Man to create a special ‘Tampa-only’ production in the Jaeb Theater. 2023-2024 promises to be a magnificent season at The Straz.”

The 2023-2024 season features:

Beetlejuice, Tuesday to Sunday, October 24-29. Based on Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film, this hilarious musical tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes.

Funny Girl, Tuesday to Sunday, November 28-December 3. Featuring one of the greatest musical scores of all time, including the classic songs “Don’t Rain on My Parade,” “I’m the Greatest Star” and “People,” this love letter to the theater is the story of the indomitable Fanny Brice.

Company, January 9-14, 2024. Winner of five Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Musical, this revelatory new production of Stephen Sondheim and George Furth’s groundbreaking musical comedy is at once boldly sophisticated, deeply insightful and downright hilarious.

31, 2024. A new Tony Award-winning musical, written and directed by celebrated playwright Conor McPherson and featuring Tony Award-winning orchestrations by Simon Hale, Girl From the North Country reimagines 20 legendary songs of Bob Dylan as they’ve never been heard before.

actor who will do anything for his kids.

Peter Pan, April 30-May 5, 2024. This high-flying musical has been delighting audiences of all ages for close to 70 years and is now being brought back to life in a new production directed by Emmy Award® winner Lonny Price with an additional book by celebrated playwright Larissa FastHorse.

Clue, May 28-June 2, 2024. Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget. Based on the cult hit 1985 Paramount movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.

The season also features The Choir of Man, Tuesday, October 3-Sunday, November 26. The runaway international hit is coming to the Jaeb Theater. The Choir of Man offers up one hour of indisputable joy. It’s a party. It’s a concert. It’s the best pub lock-in you’ve ever been to. Featuring pop, classic rock, folk, Broadway and pub tunes, The Choir of Man has something for everyone.

In addition to the nine-show Broadway series, The Straz will present engagements of these ever-popular Broadway productions: Jesus Christ Superstar, March 5-10, 2024; THE BOOK OF MORMON, April 16-21, 2024; and Les Misérables, June 11-16, 2024.

Moulin Rouge! The Musical, February 7-18, 2024. The winner of 10 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Moulin Rouge! The Musical is a celebration of truth, beauty, freedom and — above all — love. Moulin Rouge! is more than a musical; it is a state of mind.

Girl From the North Country, March 27-

Mrs. Doubtfire, April 2-7, 2024. Everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Tampa in an internationally acclaimed new hit musical. Based on the beloved film and directed by four-time Tony Award winner Jerry Zaks, Mrs. Doubtfire tells the hysterical and heartfelt story of an out-of-work

Sign up now to become new season ticket holders. Prices for the nine-show season package range from $361.75-$980.50. For more information, visit www.strazcenter. org or call the Straz Center Ticket Sales Ofce at 813-229-STAR (7827) or outside the Tampa Bay area at 800-955-1045. Individual show tickets will go on sale at a later date(s), to be announced. Events, days, dates, times, performers and prices are subject to change without notice.

EXPRESS CAR WASH CHAINS TARGET SOUTH COUNTY FOR EXPANSION

Local commuters and residents want ing to keep their ve hicles spotless have gained several new car wash options recently with multi ple Woodie’s Wash Shack, ModWash and Tidal Wave Auto Spa locations opening, as well as even more planned to compete against estab lished local operations such as Jules Car Wash. Many have been wondering why this area has seen such sudden and un expected growth in the express car-wash industry.

“We believe nearly a thousand new stores per year are being built in the U.S.,” said Eric Wulf, CEO of the International Carwash Association. “Over the past 20 years, consumer preferences have shifted from ‘do it yourself’ to ‘do it for me.’ Sun shine states have historically been popu-lar for car wash ser vices.”

From an investor’s perspec tive, the express car wash busi ness model is a marathon, not a sprint; with the high initial cost of land and construction even tually ofset by leaving income moving forward going — hopefully — mainly towards profit. With minimal annu al employee cost and expenses, including water, electricity, maintenance, insurance and taxes, it is about as close to passive income as can be found by investors in the massively lucrative automotive in-dustry.

Tampa Bay is especially appealing to developers in the car wash business due to our relatively low number of already existing locations, as well as the high carto-household ratio. With the influx of new residents moving into the area, most com

By Brian Bokor

erage of 13 times per year.

“Thanks to the widespread digitization of money, it’s easier to get banks on board these days. Banks weren’t really favorable of the business model in the past because it was mostly a cash-run business, but with memberships paid digitally now responsible for 90 percent of the in-come and only 10 percent cash, lenders are more receptive when it comes to financing,” said Glen Stygar, partner/vice president of operations for Woodie’s Wash Shack.

When asked about the saturation of car washes in close proximity, Stygar sees it another way.

“We don’t look at competition, we have a market plan to build over 50 stores on the west coast of Florida,” Stygar said. Like Wulf, he believes the shift in consumer habits towards do-it-forme parallels the growth of the express oil-

“I believe our competition is your driveway. We’re pulling people out of the driveway, just like we used to change our own oil,” Stygar said. “We see that happening in the car wash industry. You stay in your car and buzz through the tunnel in three minutes. Why use up to 120 gallons of your water when you get it done here using 30 gallons of ours? It’s a far more efcient use of water, and it’s quicker. Multiple locations near where you work, where you live and where you play give everyone the option of cleaning their ride whenever they find the time. We are also expanding into neighborhood developments with well-established tenants, such as Starbucks and Wawa, welcoming us as neighbors” due in part to the modern architecture used to designing Woodie’s

“Mike Malcom is amazing! My house hunting situation was a bit of an adventure but he stood by me the whole way and went above and beyond to ensure I wasn’t left high and dry. We encountered some road bumps along the way but he and his team fought tooth and nail to fnd solutions and keep everything moving. Would defnitely recommend.”

“We used Tony Baroni and team to both buy our new house and sell our old house in Tampa. Kate Conroy and Saccullo were awesome advocates for us on our buying adventure. They refused to compromise on what we wanted and it was great to have them in our corner during this transaction. Craig Kellner helped us on the selling side of things and it could have gone smoother. From Staging to signing it was a worry free process and could not recommend them more.”

- Pat N.

“Our agent Dylan Lee and the Tony Baroni team made the selling process easy and fast. Very informative, and fast responding for any questions. One of the best selling teams and agent services in the area.”

-

Roland B.

“The Tony Baroni Team were phenomenal every step of the way! Any questions or concerns that came up during the process of buying a home were answered and alleviated very quickly. Whether you’re looking at buying or selling a home, look no further. These guys will take care of you!”

“Craig who did a wonderful jobs , he has a good real estate knowledge, he is able to answer your questions you concern. He helps me to sell my house in 2 weeks. Thanks Craig and Tony Baroni Team. I recommend him”

- Truc P.

6 of 5 stars for extra effort. We have sold 8 homes in our life time and this sale was the best ever. The listing and photos were so good I didn’t know it was really my home. We were kept informed every step of the way and closed without incident . I couldn’t ask for more.

Robert B.

- Brody E.

- Cheryl B.

LOCAL RESIDENTS WILL RUN FOR BRANDON’S HONORARY MAYOR IN JUNE

The annual Brandon Honorary Mayor race will officially kick off on Thursday, June 1 for community leaders who will raise money to support local charities. This year, Jorgie Franks, sales and business development coach, and Danielle Stevens, owner of Vine Vegan, will be running for the position, which will be announced at the Fourth of July Parade.

Franks has lived in Brandon since 11th grade, graduating from Bloomingdale High School before attending Hillsborough Community College in Brandon and transferring to the University of South Florida. She decided to fun run for honorary mayor while working at the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce in 2018.

“I have worked in Brandon, FL in many capacities at many of the stores, schools and organizations we visit every day,” said Franks. “[At the chamber of commerce], I was in charge of adding members, which made me reach out to the business community and begin the diversity and inclusion council.”

During her race, Franks will donate the funds she raises to the Kiwanis Club of Greater Brandon, Women Centered 4 Success and Family Promise of Hillsborough County.

Franks has worked with the Kiwanis Club, which partners with schools to provide education, mentorship and leadership opportunities for students.

About Women Center 4 Success, which Franks works at as a coach, she said, “I was there seven years ago when this organization was being conceptualized. It was a vision to have the elderly women give their mentorship and coaching to the younger women and today.”

She chose to support Family Promise

of Hillsborough County as her last nonprofit because it assists homeless families without separating the individuals.

“Before 2018, I had never even heard of an honorary mayor race,” said Franks.

“I have held leadership positions before, but this would be the one where I can leave money for charities. What an honor.”

Stevens moved to Florida eight years ago, living with her family in Valrico. After working for over 20 years of corporate work experience, Stevens opened a plant-based restaurant in 2022, Vine Vegan, after identifying a need for it in the Brandon community.

“I am passionate about my mission: bringing people together over food, cap -

By Lily Belcher

turing the culture of community and using ridiculously delicious vegan food to do it,” said Stevens.

Stevens will be raising money for the Impact Program, Hope for Her and A Kid’s Place throughout June for the honorary mayor race.

“I choose these charities because they help causes that are very personal and near to my heart,” said Stevens.

Impact educates students, parents and teachers on how to have healthy relationships and avoid sexual risk. Hope for Her offers a safe place for women to find strength, skills and support after experiencing trauma. Finally, A Kid’s Place provides foster care for children from abusive homes.

“My goal is to secure financial resources to my selected charities while creating interaction between our community and its environment, all while by increasing my involvement, and encouraging others to do so too,” said Stevens.

In order to raise the funds, Stevens has organized a number of events that will take place throughout June.

“We have something for everyone,” she said. “We are going to have a grand kickoff on June 1 at my restaurant, Vine Vegan, at 5 p.m., where there will be raffles and door prizes and the opportunity to purchase advanced tickets to all my events in June.”

Her team is also planning a movie night featuring Guardians of the Galaxy , a Tory Burch Bingo on Thursday, June 22 at the Winthrop Barn and other fun events, like a comedy night, silent dance party, bingo at Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. and an online auction. Ticket sales will begin on June 1 and can be purchased by visiting ‘Danielle for Brandon Mayor’ on Facebook.

Jorgie Franks is running for honorary mayor and will support the Kiwanis Club of Greater Brandon, Women Centered 4 Success and Family Promise of Hillsborough County.

Danielle Stevens will support the Impact Program, Hope for Her and A Kid’s Place with the money raised during the honorary mayor race.

Jorgie Franks

Danielle Stevens

CANINE CABANA HAS BEEN CARING FOR COMMUNITY DOGS FOR 15 YEARS

Canine Cabana has been engrained in the Southeastern Hillsborough County area culture for 15 years now and it celebrated the milestone with a double ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Greater Riverview and Valrico FishHawk chambers of commerce on May 1. The celebration included a variety of rescue and adoption agencies in addition to the many local vendors like Fox Fired Pizza and Florida Foam Factory providing fun for dogs and humans alike.

Co-founders Kendall Duncan and Angie Pickren have extensive experience in the animal care industry, as they got their start working for Busch Gardens caring for exotic animals. For over 15 years, the pair worked with a wide variety of animals like hyenas and hippos, sometimes showcasing the animals for education on shows such as The Jay Leno Show. Inspired by a need in their community, and their passion for dogs in particular, Duncan and Pickren came together to create Canine Cabana in 2008.

What started as a two-employee operation has grown immensely over the past 15 years. In the beginning, Canine Cabana could serve about 30 dogs a day, as its services were limited to boarding and a group day care with a self-service wash and 20 suites for the pets. There are now a variety of programs ofered in addition to the original two, such as daycare membership, individual play, enrichment daycare, private

SECOND ECHO THRIFT STORE NOW OPEN ON BLOOMINGDALE AVE

By Jonathan Hurst

training, group training and spa/grooming services. The facilities have expanded as well, going from 1 acre and two play yards to 3 acres and eight play yards, as well as nature trails and a training facility, and more expansion is anticipated.

These services and facilities are just some of the ways that Canine Cabana ensures that when your dog stays with it, they are staying in luxury. All guests are well entertained, as they spend time with between 12-15 dogs of similar size and temperament after their orientation day.

“We train every new team member with industry leaders like The Dog Gurus’ Knowing Dogs 101 and 201. We love to have our team training and learning with webinars or conferences on continuing education, always learning what is new and better for the guests in our care. Our team is CPR and first aid certified. We have created a culture of inclusivity, safety and fun,” Duncan said.

What makes Canine Cabana stand out is their enrichment programs available for the dogs that have the pleasure of being a guest. These enrichment programs vary greatly, as your dog can engage in pool time, agility work, scent hunting or even art activities.

If you would like more information about the 15-year anniversary party or general information about Canine Cabana, please visit its Facebook page, Canine Cabana Florida, or its website at https://caninecabana.biz/.

Finding a good home for things you don’t use anymore is a solid move any time of year. Donate items to ECHO’s new thrift store and you will be giving to people in crisis in our community.

ECHO’s mission is to assist residents of Hillsborough County in crisis with emergency food and clothing, ofering life-stabilizing programs and resources.

ECHO has two resource centers, one in Brandon and one in Riverview. Its Brandon thrift store has provided clothing and housewares for the resource centers since 2021.

A second ECHO Thrift store is opening on Thursday, April 27 on Bloomingdale Avenue. The additional space will allow ECHO to process more donations, support more neighbors in need and create additional funding for ECHO’s many community initiatives.

ECHO Thrift’s manager, Annmarie Macaluso, loves the mission and community focus of ECHO.

“ECHO is community-based. We live here. We work here. We help here,” Macaluso said.

According to Macaluso, the new Bloomingdale store will primarily support the Riverview resource center. The support process will be the same as it has been for the Brandon resource center.

By Jane Owen

Resource centers send invoices of what they need, the thrift stores fill the items and then they are picked up and taken to the centers daily. Leftover items at the thrift stores are sold, and the profits support ECHO’s programming.

Macaluso explained that the new store provides more giveback to what ECHO is already doing but beyond that, it gives back to this area of the community.

“I look at our thrift store as its own give back to the community. We try to keep things here reasonable. People can come and shop and find nice things for their family. A lot of people are struggling who might not need assistance, but things are a little tight and we are more afordable,” Macaluso said.

ECHO’s Bloomingdale thrift store is located at 815 W. Bloomingdale Ave. It is open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Donation hours are 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on those days.

Donations of clothing and housewares are accepted. Baby seats, large toys and furniture (with the exception of small accent pieces) cannot be donated.

To learn more about ECHO, visit https:// echofl.org/. For specific thrift store information, select the “ECHO Thrift” tab on the website.

Co-founders Angie Pickren and Kendall Duncan.

Rosie after graduating from training. 3452 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Valrico (Located in the SteinMart Plaza)

A second ECHO Trift store is opening on Tursday, April 27 on Bloomingdale Avenue and will help ECHO to support more neighbors in need.

Annmarie Macaluso, ECHO Trift store manager, at ECHO’s new Bloomingdale thrift store.

GETTING A CHILD TO APPRECIATE MATH

For some students, math skills come easily, as do the aptitudes needed to be a successful math student: analyzing patterns, thinking logically and critically and solving problems. However, for others, math concepts are di f cult to grasp, and the more complex they become, the more students want to give up altogether.

If your child isn’t one of the fortunate students for which math ‘clicks’ e f ortlessly, it may not be possible for you to convince him or her to like math. However, you can encourage your child to appreciate math for the practical and useful life skill that it is. Here are a few tips on how to help your student appreciate math and its importance.

Point out math in everyday life. You don’t have to look too hard to find math in day-to-day life — from weather forecasting to telling time to using cell phones and computers. From the time your child is old enough to understand the basic concepts of math, highlight math being used everywhere you go.

Call attention to math in various careers. Certainly, it’s easier to see why professionals in accounting, engineering and science need math. However, the reality is that math is a skill required by many jobs. For business owners and entrepreneurs, math is an essential part of the company’s purchasing, budgeting, finances and other functions. Those working in real estate or sales likely have monthly sales targets to meet in order to earn carefully calculated bonuses. Landscapers or architects use math skills to create scaled drawings and to calculate

By Dr. Raymond J. Huntington

and order the right amounts of supplies. Use money. Your child might not enjoy worksheets of math problems, but there’s a good chance he or she is interested in money — or at least interested in earning money. Help your child open his or her first bank account and teach him or her how to maintain the savings register. Together, calculate how much interest he or she could earn each month based on the account’s interest rate. Put together a spreadsheet that gives your child a weekly savings goal to save up for that iPad.

Discuss your own relationship with math. Does your child see you using math? Be sure to explain how and where you use math in your daily life. If you maintain the family budget, have your child help you with this task so he or she gets a sense of how your family keeps track of your income, expenses, savings and more. Show your child how you use math in cooking and when comparison shopping.

Your child might never feel enthusiastic about math, but with some effort on your part, you can impart in him or her an appreciation for the importance of the subject. Look around and you will find a multitude of opportunities to show your child math in use — from complex math to everyday math.

Keep in mind that math is a subject that requires students to continually build skills. If your child struggles with basic concepts, more complex math will only prove frustrating. If your child is struggling, call Huntington. We can design a customized program to help your child overcome any problems with math and get back on the road to school success.

Helping Your Child Learn Math by Eileen and Raymond Huntington o f ers tips, strategies and activities to help your child learn math at home and on the go.

Not many things seem as sure as turning on a water faucet to get a steady stream of drinking water, unless you live or work in some parts of Southern Hillsborough County, where demand is challenging the supply and, at times, the flow can be reduced to a trickle.

The increase in demand for water is driven by growth in Southeastern Hillsborough County, which is seeing more residents move into new homes every day. To help meet that growing need, Tampa Bay Water is implementing a plan to increase the amount of water flowing to that part of the utility’s service area.

An agreement with Hillsborough County means Tampa Bay Water can move forward with plans to create an additional drinking water well in Southern Hillsborough County that could provide an additional 2.3 million gallons of water daily to the area.

“The water will be locally sourced and locally used,” said Warren Hogg, chief science ofcer for Tampa Bay Water. “Not only will it help meet the county’s needs, but it will also free up 2.3 million gallons of water per day from the regional system.”

The ability to draw the additional water from a Southern Hillsborough County

By Brad Stager

source is due to the installation of reclaimed water injection wells along the area’s coastline that prevent saltwater from contaminating inland water supplies. Ofcials said the reclaimed treated wastewater will not intrude into drinking water supplies. Water from the new well could be flowing through south county pipes by 2026, said Tampa Bay Water ofcials, who anticipate growing demand throughout its regional service area that includes Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties, as well as the cities of Tampa, St. Petersburg and New Port Richey.

Currently, the utility provides drinking water to 2.5 million people, a number that grows daily with new arrivals to the area. According to Tampa Bay Water, that means an additional 1020 million gallons of new water per day will be needed to serve customers for the 10-year period 2028-38.

Other Tampa Bay Water projects intended to ensure drinking water to the area include a new booster station in Brandon that will send more water to the treatment plant in Lithia by the end of the year and construction of a new regional pipeline to deliver more water to Southern Hillsborough County by 2028.

Tampa Bay Water has plans to increase the supply of drinking water to Southern Hillsborough County.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY REMINDS RESIDENTS TO CONSERVE WATER AND REVIEW THEIR WATERING DAYS AND HOURS

Hillsborough County has received very little rain this year — just 4.40 inches in the first four months. The average rainfall for the county for the first four months is 10.93 inches.

With the lack of rainfall, all water users in unincorporated Hillsborough County are subject to year-round lawn watering restrictions. Lawn watering drives peak customer water demand, and the restrictions help to balance the demand and prevent low water pressure.

Allowable watering days and hours for most water sources, uses and methods:

• Street addresses ending in 0, 1, 2 or 3: Mondays and/or Thursdays.

• Street addresses ending in 4, 5 or 6: Tuesdays and/or Fridays.

• Street addresses ending in 7, 8 or 9: Wednesdays and/or Saturdays.

• Common areas with or without addresses, locations with no address and locations with mixed addresses: Wednesdays and/or Saturdays.

• No watering is allowed on Sundays.

Watering may occur in only one of the two designated watering periods per day, between midnight and 8 a.m., or between 6 p.m. and 12 Midnight, on the allowable watering days.

Customers using reclaimed water may water on any day of the week, either before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.

The use of drinking or reclaimed water for watering lawns must not be wasteful and unnecessary. Irrigation systems should be operated in a prudent manner to ensure that water does not collect or run-of from the system does not occur. Irrigation should

only be used as a supplement to rainfall.

Visit hcflgov.net/waterrestrictions or call 813663-3295 to confirm your allowable watering days and hours and find additional rules concerning hand watering, watering of new sod and landscaping, car washing, pressure washing and using reclaimed water for irrigation.

Enforcement of Watering Days

Hillsborough County Code Enforcement

ofcers are carrying out routine patrols. Violations of the ordinance can result in a warning and even a fine of up to $500. Violations can be reported by calling Hillsborough County’s water violations reporting hotline at 813-224-8993.

Irrigation Evaluations to Help Conserve Water

There are additional actions that residents can take to reduce water consumption.

The UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County Ofce ofers free on-site and telephone irrigation evaluations for Hillsborough County residents and community and condominium associations that are high water users irrigating with metered water. This service provides education about the water conservation benefits of following Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ principles.

Extension staf can review rain or moisture sensors, irrigation system components and controller settings for proper setup and functionality. They can also perform a ‘wet walk’ of the property to identify irrigation inefciencies, such as broken heads and misdirected sprays. To schedule irrigation evaluations, contact Paula Staples at 813-7445519, ext. 54142, or staplesp@hcflgov.net.

The Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center, located at 440 N. Falkenberg Rd. in Tampa, is the only open-admission facility in the county. This means that they will accept any cat or dog regardless of breed, size and medical condition. No animal is ever turned away.

Scott Trebatoski is the director of the Resource Center. About eight years ago, the name was changed to the current name. Trebatoski explained, “We want all pet owners to know that we are the first-place pets. We are here to help, and if we cannot, we will refer the owner to somewhere that can.”

Prior to the pandemic, under Trebatoski’s direction, the Pet Resource Center developed a pet retention program. Trebatoski explained, “We work with individual pet owners for the purpose of making sure the owner can retain the pet. If the owner feels they need to give up the pet due to reasons such as financial issues, we will work to get the pet stable and keep them in the shelter, or, if we need to, send the pet to a foster home. The owner can then get the pet back once their issues are resolved.”

In addition to this program, if a pet

HILLSBOROUGH SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT PRESENTS AWARDS, SCHOLARSHIPS AND MINI GRANTS

By Kathy L. Collins

By Kathy L. Collins

owner is in need of food for the pet, it has a food pantry for pets. Trebatoski said, “If, for example, someone is getting Meals on Wheels, we do not want them giving half of their food to their pet.” You can also get a pet gate, crate or bowls if you need them. The center gets a lot of donations for those in need. Trebatoski said, “This community is very animal friendly.”

The Pet Resource Center will work with pet owners in order to protect the community. As such, if a pet needs a rabies shot, they will get it. If there are behavior issues, it can help with that too.

According to Trebatoski, it is working to implement a program where pets can get a microchip for free. If a pet gets lost, animal control can return the pet. Trebatoski said, “Underserved communities would be served by such a program because they often face transportation issues.”

The bottom line is that pets are very important to those who have them, and it is economically efcient to help pet owners keep their pets rather than shelter them. For more information, please visit www. Hillsboroughcounty.org or call 301-PETS (7387).

On April 12, the Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District held a festive luncheon where it awarded several supporter awards, scholarships and mini grants. Funding for the scholarships and mini grants came from its annual Great Plant Auction held at the Hillsborough County Fair.

The Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District held a ceremony on April 12 at The Regent. At the luncheon, the Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District presented awards to several local agencies and organizations, two scholarships and 16 mini grants.

Betty Jo Tompkins, executive director, said, “The idea for the luncheon started in 2016. The luncheon and awards represent the very thing that the Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District stands for, and that is that conservation is everybody’s business. It is the responsibility of everyone to conserve and preserve nature.”

Several leaders of local agencies were recognized for their support. The Outstanding Supporter of the Year award was given to Hillsborough Property Appraiser Bob Henriquez and his staf. The Outstanding Project of the Year award went to the Hillsborough County Fair. The Outstanding Cooperative Partner award was awarded to Environmental Protection Commission executive director Janet Lur-

ton and her staf

Two scholarships were awarded as well. The Michael Hepburn Memorial Scholarship was presented to Madison Leiner, and the Ro Gene Davis Scholarship was given to Morgan Chancey.

The mini grants are new for this year. The funding for the grants came as a result of the Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District’s Great Plant Auction held annually at the Hillsborough County Fair.

There were 16 mini grants in the amount of $250 awarded. Each mini grant project proposal required at least one adult and four students participating in the project. Tompkins said, “When we came up with the idea for the mini grants, we thought that we would give out 12, but there were so many great project proposals that we decided to give out 16.”

The grant recipients included Apollo Beach Elementary School, Brandon High School FFA Chapter, Cub Scout Pack 37, Boy Scout Troop 109, Dunbar Elementary Magnet School, Ryan Flugel’s Eagle Scout project, Girl Scout Troop 3518, Graham Elementary AGP Gardens, Hillsborough County 4-H, Lopez Agriculture Classes, Pizzo K-8 School Garden Club, Raise the Bar 4-H Club, SCUBAnauts International (Tampa Chapter), Springhead Elementary Fifth Grade Lunch Bunch/Tutoring Group, Temple Terrace Elementary School Green Team and Winthrop Arts.

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

Te Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center, located at 440

Falkenberg Rd. in Tampa, is the local resource for pet owners facing a multitude of issues.

Local Residents Return To HGTV Shows

Local residents Brian and Mika Kleinschmidt recently returned to HGTV in a two-episode special of 100 Day Dream Home: Beachfront Hotel , ahead of the new 11-episode season premiere of 100 Day Dream Home . During the beachfront hotel special, Brian and Mika turn their construction and design expertise toward the full overhaul of a dated 12-room property on the Florida Gulf Coast. 100 Day Dream Home: Beachfront Hotel premiered on May 12 on HGTV, and it will be followed by the new season premiere of 100 Day Dream Home on Friday, May 26 at 9 p.m.

Hillsborough Fleet Management Takes Prestigious Awards

Hillsborough County Fleet Management achieved a rare triple win at the 2023 NAFA Fleet Management Association’s annual contest recognizing the best fleets in the United States and Canada. Hillsbor-

ough County Fleet Management provides asset management and policy development services for a fleet of 3,400 vehicles. The vehicles serve 30 county departments, county constitutional o f ces and various Florida agencies. Hillsborough County won all three categories for which it was eligible: Best Public Fleet; Fleet Professional of the Year, fleet management director Robert Stine; and Fleet Technician of the Year, Alex Gonzalez.

Bloomingdale Basketball Summer Camps

Bloomingdale High School Basketball will be hosting a summer basketball camp for boys and girls at all skill levels for campers entering grades four through nine. The camp dates are Tues-

day to Friday, May 30 to June 2 and/or Monday to Thursday, June 5-8. There will be a morning session from 9 a.m.-12 Noon and an afternoon session from 1-4 p.m. Campers will be placed into groups by age, size and ability. Session numbers are limited to 40 players. For more information and to reserve a spot, email Joel Bower at joel.bower@hcps.net or call 813-299-5072.

It’s Fun To Volunteer At ECHO

Are you looking for volunteer opportunities in Brandon, Riverview and the sur-

rounding areas? ECHO needs people who are excited to volunteer so that it can help as many families in the area as possible. It has something for everyone. If you have not volunteered with ECHO before, you must attend a short New Volunteer Orientation before your first time. For volunteer opportunities and to register, visit www.echofl. org/volunteer.

Sesame Street Kids’ Weekends Return To Busch Gardens

Tampa Bay

Families are invited to a celebration of friendship and fun as Sesame Street Kids ’ Weekend returns to Busch Gardens

Tampa Bay. Guests can join their favorite Sesame Street friends, including Elmo, Cookie Monster, Abby Cadabby, Big Bird and more, for a fun-filled themed weekend.

In this event, families can enjoy a new Sesame Street theme with activities including story time, interactive dance parties, arts and crafts, scavenger hunts and much more. Plus, families can enjoy the all-new “Welcome to Our Street” show at the park’s Sunny Day Theater. The upcoming themed event is Everyday Heroes Weekend from Friday to Sunday, May 19-21.

For more information, to purchase tickets and to learn more about the annual pass program, visit https://buschgardenstampa.com.

Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com

Brian and Mika Kleinschmidt from HGTV’s 100 Day Dream Home.

UNION SPORTSMEN’S ALLIANCE, IRONWORKERS LOCAL 397 HOST YOUTH FISHING EVENT AT SUNCOAST YOUTH CONSERVATION CENTER

Nearly 200 youth and their families turned out for Take Kids Fishing Day at the Suncoast Youth Conservation Center (SYCC) in Apollo Beach on April 15. Most of the participants had never fished before.

Hosted by Ironworkers Local 397 and the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA), the free community event aimed to introduce youth to saltwater fishing from the boardwalk and fishing pier constructed by union volunteers at SYCC in 2019.

The wheelchair-accessible structure is the result of a multiyear community service project organized by the USA through its Work Boots on the Ground conservation program. It flanks a restored saltwater pond and marsh adjacent to the SYCC’s 6,000-square-foot education facility.

“We are grateful to the USA for its commitment to supporting youth engagement with the outdoors. The fishing pier they built for us makes a huge diference for visitors, field trip students and summer campers,” said SYCC director Candice Wade.

“Florida’s natural resources belong to all of us, and not everyone gets the chance to grow up with access to nature or guidance on how to engage with the outdoors,” she added. “Events like this empower youth and families to enjoy Florida wildlife in a conservation-minded manner. I especially love that participants received fishing gear so they can continue to apply the skills they

learned.”

As youth fished from the boardwalk and along the banks of the marsh, 18 union volunteers from Ironworkers Local 397 and the NFL Players Association, along with USA and SYCC staf, assisted them with baiting hooks, casting, reeling and getting familiar with their new fishing rods and reels, provided by the USA.

“The unions are part of the community, and we are always looking for ways to

give back and make a positive impact. We had plenty of volunteers to ensure the kids had a great experience,” said Keven Barber, Ironworkers Local 397 financial secretary-treasurer/business agent, who organized the event. “Between youth events like this and the Multi-Craft Core Curriculum (MC3) apprenticeship readiness program we participate in with high schools, we hope to expose youth to the trades so they consider it as an option when

they graduate.”

“At the NFLPA, we look for opportunities for kids to experience activities they don’t normally get a chance to participate in,” said NFLPA Tampa Chapter President Jerry Bell, who volunteered at the event. “It was great to be able to spend time with these kids and show them a few things about fishing. I saw one little girl catch the biggest fish of the day, and it was neat to see how excited she was.”

Throughout the event, SYCC staf also manned four education stations, including fish tagging, knot tying, fish measuring and casting.

The Suncoast event was part of a series of free, community-based Take Kids Fishing Day events, organized through the USA’s Work Boots on the Ground program with support from USA national partners Provost Umphrey Law Firm, Union Plus and Humana as well as founding partners UIG, ULLICO, Bank of Labor, AFL-CIO Investment Trust Corporation and Buck Knives.

“The weather for this year’s event was great, and the kids caught more fish — black drum and pinfish — than previous years,” said USA Conservation Coordinator Cody Campbell. “We can’t thank the volunteers from Ironworkers Local 397, the NFLPA and SYCC enough for donating their time to give participating families a fun and educational experience and spark their interest in fishing.”

until May 31st

Volunteers from Ironworkers Local 397 and the NFL Players Association assisted youth with baiting, casting, reeling and getting familiar with their new fshing rods and reels.

Te Union Sportsmen’s Alliance provided all participating youth with their own fshing rods and reels so they could continue to pursue fshing beyond the event.

Most of the youth taking part in Take Kids Fishing Day had never fshed prior to the event.

Duck Donuts Celebrates Grand Opening

Duck Donuts, located at 821 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon’s Bloomingdale Square plaza, recently celebrated its grand opening.

The owners, father-and-son duo Jay and Jason Patel, said, “We are delighted to be opening the first Duck Donuts in the Tampa Bay area. The community has been patiently waiting for us to open the doors, and now we cannot wait to sprinkle happiness with our warm, delicious, made-to-order doughnuts.”

Customers can create their own doughnuts by choosing from a variety of coatings, toppings and drizzles, or they can select from the menu. The store also ofers a viewing area where you can watch your donuts being made.

For more information, visit www.duckdonuts.com/brandon/. To contact Duck Donuts in Brandon, call 813-315-9661.

Skill Samurai Opens In Bloomingdale Square Plaza

Skill Samurai recently opened at 931 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon and ofers after-school coding and robotic classes as well as summer camps. It believes that all chil-

dren should have the opportunity to develop various skills, and several classes are available for all ages and skill levels. Instructors guide the students and ensure that every one of them is getting the best out of their class by tailoring the courses to students’ strengths and weaknesses. For more information, visit its website at https://skillsamurai.com/fl-brandon or call 813-761-2832.

Virtual Dementia Tour Visits Tessera Of Brandon Senior Helpers and Second Wind Dreams invite you to open yourself to experience the world around you in a completely diferent way at their Virtual Dementia Tour: Your Window Into Their World. The

sensitivity training program enables participants to gain a greater understanding of dementia and shift their thinking from fear to action. Join them at Tessera of Brandon, located at 1320 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon, on Tuesday, May 23 from 3-5 p.m. Please call 813-607-6880 to reserve a place.

Iron Rock Insurance Opens Commercial Division

Local-family-owned Iron Rock Insurance has recently expanded and opened a commercial insurance division. With the growing commercial business Lisa Hast, managing partner of Iron Rock Insurance, felt it would be a great asset to the business as well as the community. Heading the commercial division is Spencer Foy, and Kate Norberg, li-

censed CSR, joined the commercial division as well. Iron Rock Insurance is located at 400 Frandorson Cir., Ste. 103 in Apollo Beach and can be contacted on 813-213-9600. Visit its website at www.ironrockins.com for more information.

Pro221 Pressure Washing Ofers Expert Exterior Cleaning

Pro221 Pressure Washing specializes in all-inclusive exterior cleaning services. With cleaning homes, driveways, lanais, pool cages and more, it has the expertise and equipment to deliver outstanding results. Owner Mark Girdwood brings over 20 years of experience in customer service and understands the importance of providing high-quality service to valued customers. What sets Pro221 apart is its commitment to customer satisfaction. It guarantees that every project will be treated with the respect it deserves, and it will only stop when the customer is satisfied. Pro221 Pressure Washing is

Continued on Next Page............

Mark Girdwood, owner of Pro221 Pressure Washing.

Spencer Foy is head of Iron Rock Insurance’s commercial division.

Duck Donuts celebrates its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting.

fully licensed and insured. The convenient booking options, via text message, phone call, email or website, make it easy for the customer to schedule a service. Contact it by calling 813-699-0304 or visit its website at https://pro221.com for additional information and to book services.

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 shortterm 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.”

May Is Garage Door Safety Month

Garage Door Safety Month is every May. It is an initiative to help keep the public safe, and Master Garage Door Co., which has been serving Eastern Hillsborough County for over 25 years, is a great choice for that

By Jenny Bennett

goal. If you suspect any problems with your door system, contact Master Garage Door Co. at 813-6847744 or email steve@ mastergaragedoor. com. Additional information about services ofered can be found on its website at www. mastergaragedoor. com.

Wingspread Farm

Selected For 2023 Best Of Valrico Award

Wingspread Farm has been selected for the 2023 Best of Valrico Award in the Farm category by the Valrico Award Program. Each year, the Valrico Award Program identifies companies that it believes have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community. These are companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community and help make the Valrico area a great place to live. Wingspread Farm is located at 3003 Pearson Rd. in Valrico and is open Thursday through Sunday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Visit its website at www.wingspread.farm for more information.

Rello Runs Academy Summer Basketball

Rello Runs Academy, owned locally by Durrell and Jade Peterson, is preparing for its summer basketball camps and classes in the Riverview area. It provides a great fun environ ment for all athletes to grow in spir it, mind and body through basketball. Call 904-563-3170 or email jpeter soncorp@ gmail.com for more informa tion.

Have you ever wanted to defy the aging process? Who hasn’t? While no one can stop the clock and the passing of time, ageRejuvenation, a local medical spa clinic, can put a plan in place to bring your body back to an optimal level comparable to when your body was the healthiest in your 20s. ageRejuvenation also ofers weight loss plans that can help you reach short-term weight loss goals.

Under the medical direction of Dr. Dawn Ericsson, ageRejuvenation is committed to treating symptoms of aging and promoting longer and healthier living regardless of age. Core to its full-scale program is an individualized whole-body approach that helps patients restore their health through hormonal balance, decreased inflammation, improved sexual function and weight loss.

Brett Markowitz, visionary and founder of ageRejuvenation, said it is devoted to customized treatment plans that use advanced diagnostic testing to provide insight into the root causes of symptoms.

“We understand that no two individuals are alike,” Markowitz said. “We also believe that treating the whole body is important. Looking at the thyroid, looking at the hormones, looking at the gut health is essen-

tial.”

By Jane Owen

Clients are given a full-body assessment, which includes a lifestyle assessment with regards to stress, blood tests for hormone analysis and an analysis of food sensitivities and intolerances to support gut health.

“The average person going through traditional doctors and referrals would go through a whole year and a half to get the assessment and labs we do. We do that, day one. You get answers day one,” Markowitz said.

With regards to weight loss goals, ageRejuvenation’s holistic approach to healthy living ensures clients will have long-term success.

“Once you come see us, if you follow what we tell you to do, you are not going to put the weight back on,” said Markowitz.

ageRejuvenation has locations throughout Tampa Bay and will be opening additional locations in Atlanta, Georgia and Charlotte, North Carolina. The Brandon ofce is located at 1155 Nikki View Dr. For more information about the services ageRejuvenation ofers, visit www.AgeRejuvenation.com. Call 813-681-8624 for a free consultation.

Dr. Dawn Ericsson is the medical director at ageRejuvenation.

LOCAL LIONS CLUBS DO GREAT THINGS FOR MANY IN OUR COMMUNITY

By Kathy L. Collins

BRANDON AUTO SERVICES HAS BEEN HELPING THE COMMUNITY WITH ITS AUTO NEEDS FOR 52 YEARS

Lions Club International is the world’s largest service club organization, having more than 1.4 million members in 46,000 clubs in more than 200 countries. Locally, there are several vibrant Lions Clubs that strive to do good work for the community. These include the Plant City Lions Club, the Brandon Lions Club and the Fishhawk Lions Club.

Lions Club International has thousands of members and clubs globally, including three in our local area. Tese service clubs include the Plant City Lions Club, the Brandon Lions Club and the Fishhawk Lions Club.

The Plant City Lions Club was established on April 4, 1929.

Bridget Zickefoose with the Plant City Lions Club said, “Lions Clubs worldwide has made a significant impact in servicing those who are visually impaired as well as fight hunger, childhood cancer, humanitarian eforts, disaster relief and diabetes. It is through fundraisers such as the Florida Strawberry Festival Queens Pageant, Florida Strawberry Festival Food Booth [and] annual golf tournament the Plant City Lions Club can help contribute to the Lions’ mission.”

The Plant City Lions Club meets at Mt. Zion Assembly of God on the first Thursday of each month at 12 Noon and on the third Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. For more information, please visit www.plantcitylions.org.

The Brandon Lions Club was established in 1954. While the club has many services and activities, its primary focus is assisting those in need relating to sight

conservation, prevention of blindness and dealing successfully with the loss of sight.

Joe Kuebler, treasurer for the Brandon Lions Club, said, “The main thing that could be said for the Brandon Lions Club is that we follow our Lions motto of ‘We Serve.’”

The Brandon Lions Club meets at 610 Limona Rd. in Brandon on the first and third Thursday of each month for dinner at 6:30 p.m. and a meeting at 7:30 p.m. For more information, please email brandonlionsclub@gmail.com.

The Fishhawk Lions Club, the newest area club, was established in 2020. This club contributes financially to traditional Lions charities, including the Lions Eye Institute in Ybor City.

Jack Bello, president of the Fishhawk Lions Club, said, “The Fishhawk Lions Club has served the community’s food banks, local charities and schools. The club’s latest projects include supporting foster children in local schools with its project of screening children’s eyes for numerous conditions. This endeavor will begin in the next few months.”

The Fishhawk Lions Club meets on the first Wednesday of the month at Grace Community United Methodist Church, located at 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia. For more information, please visit www.Fishhawklionsclub.com.

Steve Holland and Ken Anderson have been friends since grade school. They have also been the owners of Brandon Auto Services for more than three decades. “We have been part of the Brandon community for 52 years,” Holland said. “My father originally owned Holland’s Auto Service in Brandon on Robertson, across from where the old library used to be. When he decided to sell the business; Ken and I decided to buy the business.”

Brandon Auto Services is the community’s one-stop shop for a wide variety of auto needs. “We have parts for vehicles, and we do general repairs, engine/transmission repairs, collision repairs and tire services,” Holland said. “We work hard to purchase damaged or used vehicles so we can recycle parts. This is an extremely important part of the automotive supply chain.”

Their customers get options in purchasing a quality used part that has a possible warranty ranging from 101 days to lifetime. Think of purchasing a used part when you need a wheel, a car body part, transmission or an engine.

If you ask Holland and Anderson what makes Brandon Auto Services di f erent from other auto services in the area,

By Libby Hopkins

they’ll say it’s the variety of services they o f er their customers. “I think growing up in the Brandon community and working in the community is what makes us di f erent,” Holland said. “We give options to our customers. We can use used parts, new factory parts or recycled parts. Customers can choose how their vehicles are fixed.”

Brandon Auto Services also specializes in Corvette repairs and parts. “We have a large stock of quality of new and used Corvette parts,” Holland said. “We also do a lot of Corvette repairs.”

Its tire department o f ers both new and quality used tires and wheels, including new custom wheels. “All major brands of tires are available for installation, including Goodyear, Pirelli and Firestone,” Holland said.

Call Brandon Auto Services at 813689-8131 if you need auto or truck parts. For the collision department or mechanic shop, call 813-689-8255.

For more information about the services o f ered at Brandon Auto Services, visit its website at www.brandonauto. com. The shop is located at 3159 SR 60 E. in Valrico. Its hours of operation are 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Monday to Friday.

LOCAL VETERAN WITH A LIFETIME OF SERVICE HONORED AT TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING GAME

Lewis Palumbo has given a lifetime of service to his country and community. He celebrated his 91st birthday, along with his wife of 72 years, Virginia, this past June.

The Tampa Bay Lightning honored Palumbo on the ice with the honor guard before their game against the San Jose Sharks on February 7.

Lewis’s longtime friend, Ken Muzyk, brought him to the game and surprised him with the honor.

“You may never meet someone of that caliber your whole life. He’s not one of those guys that wants to be patted on the back, but he was in awe, and he was grateful,” Muzyk said.

A career Marine, Palumbo is a veteran of the Korean War, Vietnam War and Cuban conflict.

Palumbo enlisted in the Marines in 1949. While fighting as part of the 4th Battalion of the 1st Marine Division, he was wounded in the Korean War Battle of Chosin Reservoir and received the Purple Heart. Following the Korean War, he served in the Howitzer Battery and the 2nd Signal Battalion of the 2nd Marine Division, among other units. He received his commission as a second lieutenant in 1966. He retired as a captain in 1979 after working with the Na-

THREE BLOOMINGDALE LACROSSE CAPTAINS CELEBRATE ADMITTANCE TO MILITARY SERVICE ACADEMIES

By Jane Owen

tional Security Agency.

While Palumbo retired from military service in 1979, he never stopped serving. He lives up to the U.S. Marine Corps motto, “Once a Marine, always a Marine.” According to the US Marine Corps website: “There truly is no such thing as a former Marine, as after service our Marine Veterans are just as dedicated to advancing our Nation and defending its ideals.”

Palumbo volunteered tirelessly for 22 years with TOPSoccer, a recreational sports program for children with disabilities, and THORN (Thankfully Helping Others’ Real Needs) Ministries, which feeds the homeless in the Tampa area. Palumbo also regularly volunteered at the Nativity Catholic Church Food Pantry.

THORN founder Kristin Taylor said Palumbo has a big heart for others, especially homeless veterans.

“Seeing homeless veterans never sat right with him, so … he would quietly collect metal to sell to buy socks for the guys. Lew is simply the father and husband everyone could ever hope for. The friend and mentor you thank God for every time you see his face. He is the most honorable yet humble man I’ve ever known,” Taylor said.

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

Hybrid Dementia and Alzheimer’s Support Groups

Fourth Tuesday of Every Month at 6:30 pm

Come

Fourth

“If everyone is thinking alike, then someone isn’t thinking,” said George S. Patton, one of the best-known American generals in World War II. His words mean that if every person is thinking the same, then every person is just a follower.

Ryan Mothershed Cases, Lelyn Kirby and Simeon Rate are leaders. They are all captains on the Bloomingdale High School lacrosse team. They also have all accepted prestigious appointments to U.S. service academies. Cases and Kirby will attend the United States Naval Academy. Rate will attend the United States Air Force Academy.

Bloomingdale’s lacrosse coach, Cody Gray, said it is very rare to find the leadership qualities they possess as high school athletes. They lead by example and exude accountability.

“They’ve demonstrated immense accountability in both holding themselves accountable, but even more importantly their teammates. This can bring a lot of confrontation to the table if done incorrectly. However, I trusted them both seasons as their coach to do so in a radically candid manner. They cared personally, but also challenged their teammates directly.

By Jane Owen

This balance is extremely hard to accomplish even for some of the best leaders in the world,” Gray said.

All three students had different reasons for applying to the academies. Cases will be fourth-generation military, Rate’s dad and brother attended the Air Force Academy and Kirby felt the Naval Academy would give him tools for success to help others.

The desire to serve is what will continue to make them good leaders.

“Growing up, I knew that no matter what I did after high school, I wanted to serve others,” said Rate.

“What inspired me to apply to the academy is my desire to do good and give back to my country,” said Kirby.

“Having received the appointment, I know that I’m no longer doing things for me but for those around me because everything is not about me at this point, it’s about us,” said Cases.

According to Gray, their combination of leading by example with efective communication led players to follow. Simply put, he said, they are an inspiration for others and will have a huge impact on our county for years to come.

Retired USMC Captain Lewis H. Palumbo at the Tampa Bay Lightning game against the San Jose Sharks on February 7.

Lewis Palumbo (right), who volunteered with THORN Ministries for 22 years in caring for the homeless, pictured with his friend, Ken Muzyk.

Coach Cody Gray stands proudly with Bloomingdale lacrosse players Simeon Rate, Ryan Mothershed Cases, Lelyn Kirby who are heading to the U.S. service academies

PIGTAILS & CREWCUTS OFFERS FUN SPACE FOR KIDS HAIRCUTS

Getting a haircut can be scary for young kids; that’s why finding somewhere your child feels comfortable is so important.

Pigtails & Crewcuts in Valrico offers up a safe space and kid-friendly salon with bright colors, televisions, a train table and a treasure box. Having an exciting space helps kids have fun while getting their haircut.

Pigtails & Crewcuts ofers a first-haircut package that includes a keepsake piece of hair and a certificate with a photo of your child in order to commemorate this special moment. Not only does Pigtails & Crewcuts ofer first haircuts, but there are packages for the whole family too.

“Our goal with this salon is to make the salon experience enjoyable for the entire family,” said Kimberly Bingheim, co-owner of Pigtails & Crewcuts. “It has been an incredible journey for our family.”

Other services include kid haircuts, mom and dad haircuts, bang cuts, detangling, shampoos, blow-dry, styling, fairy hair, ear piercing and nail polish. Pigtails & Crewcuts also ofers a 10-haircut package, which includes $30 in savings when

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

you purchase 10 haircuts. Because their son struggled when getting his haircut, Kimberly and Justin Bingheim were looking to find a more inviting environment to take him. During the search, they realized that there were not many kid-friendly salons in the area and decided to create that space for other families in the community.

Kimberly is passionate about ofering children a great experience for their first haircut because she remembers hers so fondly, as her aunt was the first person to cut her hair. Operating her own hair salon keeps her close to her aunt, who passed away, and Kimberly knows her aunt is proud of the safe space she has created for families.

“Getting a haircut can be delicate for children, and the first haircut is an extremely important moment,” said Kimberly. “We feel so blessed to have the opportunity to ofer other families a salon dedicated to them.”

For more information, please call the salon at 727-404-1839 or visit www.pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/valrico.

FAMILY HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION OFFERS COMMUNITY-BASED NAVIGATION FOR SERVICES

Finding and maintaining health insurance for individuals and families can be a daunting task. Thankfully, there is The Family Healthcare Foundation, an afordable nonprofit that helps you navigate difcult terrain and find insurance coverage that fits your needs.

For 25 years, The Family Healthcare Foundation has been helping residents of Hillsborough County as well as Pinellas, Pasco and Polk counties. Its mission is to ensure that all residents have equitable access to quality health care coverage, and its services are free to anyone, regardless of income.

If you are one of the millions who are in need of health care insurance coverage, and need help navigating the system, look to Te Family Healthcare Foundation for help. It provides health care navigator services for free to all residents of Hillsborough County.

Its services have never been more needed than they are today, as Medicaid coverage for millions, which was mandated and paid for by the federal government during the pandemic, is coming to an end.

The Family Healthcare Foundation employs highly trained and experienced navigators who will work with you to compare health care coverage from both private insurance and publicly funded health insurance, such as Florida Medicaid, Florida KidCare, the Hillsborough County Health Care Plan and the Obamacare Marketplace. Navigators are paid by The Family Healthcare Foundation, which receives funding so that it can ensure everyone has access to insurance. The navigators provide unbiased information.

Navigators speak English, Spanish, Por-

By Kathy L. Collins

tuguese and Haitian Creole. They can also get a translator for other languages.

Navigators start with a screening process to determine the type of coverage that may apply. Some programs have income requirements. You can meet with the navigator over the phone, virtually or in person. In-person meetings take place at one of seven Children’s Board Resource Centers located throughout Hillsborough County, including Brandon and Plant City.

Navigators will make themselves available in the evenings and on weekends to accommodate those who work and cannot take time o f . In addition, they are partnering with BayCare Health System, Tampa General Hospital, Evara Health and Premier Community HealthCare Group to provide additional navigators during this di f cult time.

Katie Roders Turner, executive director for The Family Healthcare Foundation, said, “Our navigators have 10 years or more experience. They do not receive commission and will do a side-by-side comparison of coverage in a completely unbiased manner.”

For more information and to get the process started, please visit https:// familyhealthcarefdn.org/ or call 813995-7005.

With bright colors, exciting chairs and more, kids will be excited to get their haircut at Pigtails & Crewcuts.

NEW MEMORY CARE STATIONS TO ASSIST RESIDENTS OF TESSERA BRANDON

Journeying to the past and taking a stroll down memory lane is no longer just a possibility for residents of Tessera Brandon, but rather a reality made feasible by the facility’s newest amenities: memory care stations.

Memory care stations are designed to elicit longterm memories by recreating familiar situations from the past. Tailored to residents sufering from Alzheimer’s and dementia, Jill Andrew, director of marketing at Tessera Brandon, stated that implementing these new technologies was an inevitable step in revolutionizing the care ofered by the senior assisted living and memory care community.

“It was just time,” said Andrew, “and the residents themselves wanted to do something meaningful for memory care.”

Located within the niches and insets of the facility’s hallways, these spaces are organized in a manner that makes them easily accessible to residents, whether they are visiting the life stations independently or participating in activities alongside their peers. Because the purpose of these stations is to encourage these individuals to recall elements of their past more readily, the current stations are decorated to resemble five aspects of everyday life.

The music station was the first one finished, featuring an antique piano and a backdrop decorated with piano keys that adorn the wall. Additional instruments available for use in this space include ukeleles, xylophones, maracas and tambourines. Incorporating scarves, hats, costume jewelry

By Madeline Gardner

and purses, the vanity station features a vanity and is meant to imitate the practice of getting ready.

Complete with stufed and electronic animals, the pet life station intends to evoke past memories of time spent with furry friends. Items such as brushes encourage residents to interact with these props. The handyman station is a workbench that includes high-grade tool replicas.

Lastly, the tactile/sensory station features materials like a plaque covered in feathers and common household items like marbles.

Alongside purchasing new items and making use of current materials, Tessera Brandon regularly accepts donations from members of the surrounding community. By working with networking groups of the Greater Riverview and Valrico FishHawk chambers of commerce, for example, Tessera Brandon has been able to incorporate items such as purses, brushes and jewelry to fill these spaces.

“Our community around here is just phenomenal,” said Andrew. “People want to do good, people want to give back, and so it’s an opportunity for them to do so.”

Andrew states that the next station will likely feature either an ofce or a nursery design.

For more information on memory care stations and additional opportunities available at Tessera Brandon, please visit www. tesserabrandon.com or call 813-607-6880.

HCC’S SOUTHSHORE CAMPUS CELEBRATES 15TH ANNUAL STUDENT EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Hillsborough Community College’s SouthShore campus celebrated its 15th annual Student Excellence Awards to recognize exceptional students and staf

Around 200 faculty, students and community members attended the program held at the Main Kings Point Clubhouse. The awards recognized the dean’s list of students and faculty along with staf of the year.

Campus President Dr. Jennifer Wells China invited her Presidential Advisory Council to support their outstanding students and staf

This year’s Faculty of the Year Award went to mathematics professor Dr. Craig Hardesty.

“The Faculty of the Year Award represents a faculty member who fosters an atmosphere of collegiality and collaboration among students,” said executive staf assistant Brenda Sanchez.

Job placement assistant Fauna Keppen was given the Staf Person of the Year Award at the SouthShore event as well.

“The Staf Person of the Year Award represents a staf member who demonstrates a high degree of excellence and integrity in their work, which promotes improvement in the overall student body of the SouthShore campus,” explained Sanchez.

Librarian Roxanna Palmer received the

By Lily Belcher

Servant Leadership Award to recognize her stewardship and community building and the impact she has had on campus.

Finally, Student of the Year was awarded to Allen Chen. Chen is graduating with a 4.0 GPA and plans to attend the University of South Florida in the fall.

“Mr. Chen is a stellar student who has also provided service and leadership excellence,” said Sanchez.

Hillsborough Community College serves around 45,000 students every year across all five of its campuses. Each campus, including the SouthShore location, has diferent clubs and organizations for all students, including a Student Government Association and a Student Nurses Organization.

The SouthShore campus is home to the Lennard Collegiate Academy, which partners with Lennard High School to help students earn their associate degree in high school. It also ofers EMT, paramedic and nursing pathways and is a green campus.

Hillsborough Community College’s SouthShore campus is located at 551 24th St. NE in Ruskin, right across the street from Lennard High School.

Call 813-253-7000. To book a tour, www. hccfl.edu/campus-life/southshore-campus.

Tessera Brandon is located at 1320 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

After purchasing the vanity for this life station, Tessera Brandon reached out to the community for the donation of various accessories.

Staf, students and families attended the 15th annual Student Excellence Awards.

Dean Nadia Kotula presented the Faculty of the Year Award to Dr. Craig Hardesty.

Two Quest Volleyball Academy teams earned USAV (USA Volleyball) Bids at the national qualifiers this season. The 16 Taylor team earned their bid at the Lone Star Classic in Dallas and the 13 Sue team earned a rare two bids in the Sunshine Classic.

A USAV Bid is awarded to a top-performing team and earns the team a spot in the most competitive national tournaments each year.

“These two teams, like others in our program, have worked their way to the top of the age divisions and are well known as competitors in our area,” said director Teresa Tanski. “… Teams like this aren’t built in a season — they’re built because hardworking athletes share a common goal and work towards that goal every day.”

The 16 Taylor team consists of high school sophomores, many of whom have played at Quest for at least two years. The biggest challenge that faced the 16 Taylor team were injuries. One athlete, Siah Kennedy, tore her ACL, and Pamela DeJesus sufered a foot injury during the qualifier, but other, minor injuries have plagued the team during the tournament.

“The players have had to truly step up

NEW TAMPA BAY FERRIES ALLIANCE CONTINUES AREA PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION VISION

By Lily Belcher

into new roles and trust each other through the process of overcoming those injuries,” said Tanski.

Other teams have struggled with being overlooked because of the smaller nature of the club. However, the consistency and dedication of the coaches to the programs have allowed the teams to grow stronger.

The 13 Sue team fought for a 20-0 record across two tournaments at the Sunshine Classic and USAV Big South National Qualifier. With their impressive record, the athletes earned their first two bids as a team.

“We’ve seen tremendous growth from both of these teams over several seasons; an improvement in overall ball control and technicality. They’ve also got incredible team chemistry, some of the best camaraderie of any team at Quest,” said Tanski.

Quest Volleyball ofers consistent, yearround training for all athletes. Tryouts are typically held in July, with the season running from November through June.

For more information on Quest Volleyball Academy, visit www.questvolleyballacademy.com or contact Tanski at 813-382-9322 or teresa.tanski@questvolleyball.com.

A diverse group of local leaders from across Tampa Bay have joined to develop the Tampa Bay Ferries Alliance, a nonprofit organization dedicated to delivering on permanent, year-round, cost-efective ferry service.

Tanya Doran, a lifelong South Hillsborough County resident and the former CEO and president of the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce, will serve as the alliance’s founding president and CEO.

“I am honored to lead the Tampa Bay Ferries Alliance alongside our incredible Board,” said Doran.

“As the South Hillsborough County population continues to grow, adding a sustainable ferry service to connect all of Tampa Bay, utilizing our untapped waterways is a wise decision.”

The alliance announced its founding board of directors, including:

Michael Ball — retired Naval ofcer.

Bryce Bowden — member of the Hillsborough County Planning Commission.

Joe Eletto — veteran and military focused support organizations.

Fred Fallman — retired United States Air Force.

Kelly Flannery — South Tampa Chamber president and CEO.

Chris Steinocher — St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce president and CEO.

Nancy Stevens — Tampa Bay Sierra

Club conservation chair.

Board secretary Joe Eletto is a Vietnam-era veteran and chairman of the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce’s Military Afairs Committee.

“As a military and veteran advocate, a ferry is a win-win for us all and the only transportation option that will improve these heroes’ quality of life by giving them back well over an hour with their family each day,” said Eletto, The organization will operate independently but in cooperation with the currently operating seasonal Cross Bay Ferry system, which is a unique public-private partnership between Hillsborough County, Pinellas County, St. Petersburg, Tampa and HMS Ferries.

The Tampa Bay Ferries Alliance’s initial goals are to secure expedited permanent ferry service in the Tampa Bay region, including a commuter connection between South Hillsborough County and MacDill Air Force Base alongside service between St. Petersburg, Tampa and South Hillsborough County.

“The fact is we have a tremendous, untapped resource right at our shorelines,” said Doran.

“With community buy-in and committed local leadership, we can bring reliable ferry service to communities across the entire region.”

To learn more, visit www.tampabayferriesalliance.org.

Te 16 Taylor team earned their bid at the Lone Star Classic.

The 13 Sue team earned two bids this season.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. SEEKS

GASPARILLA FLOAT SPONSORS FOR NEW 321 KREWE

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Down Syndrome Special Needs

West Florida Inc. is starting a special needs Gasparilla krewe to raise awareness for those with Down syndrome and create a safe and accepting atmosphere for individuals and their families.

“I’ve always thought that there has to be a way to integrate our special needs community into the typical community to give them an insight and look to down syndrome, autism and special needs adults and how they’re doing something that everybody takes for granted,” said F.R.I.E.N.D.S. executive director Ann Foyt.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. stands for families, respect, inspire, educate, Down syndrome, special needs. To include their members in the annual Gasparilla festivities, it created a krewe.

The Gasparilla 321 Krewe was started this year with hopes of F.R.I.E.N.D.S. having its own float for over 100 members with Down syndrome or other special needs. The Krewe is named 321 to represent the third copy of the 21st chromosome that leads to Down syndrome.

“For right now, I think we are just going to put together a krewe. … I’m sure

BELL CREEK ACADEMY PITCHER FRITSCH THROWS PERFECT GAME; SECOND OF HIS CAREER

By Lily Belcher

it’s going to be easy because when I pitched this to the community, I had such a big response. So, I know it would be really popular,” said Foyt. In order to have its own float, F.R.I.E.N.D.S. needs to raise money to build or purchase a parade float. The nonprofit is looking for sponsors to help fund the purchase of a float or pirate costumes for its members.

“We have a wonderful community. The special needs community here in Tampa is very supportive of each other,” said Foyt.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. is also hosting a bingo and brunch fundraiser on Saturday, May 20 to raise money for its organization. The event will take place at the Lucaya Lake Clubhouse from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and will ofer designer bags and rafe baskets as prizes. Tickets for the event cost $50 in advance online or $60 at the door and come with 10 bingo cards, brunch and drinks, including a taste of local wines.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. is a Tampa Bay-area nonprofit that provides special needs resources, information and support for families. For more information, visit www.friendssupport.org or call 813-245-2782.

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

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

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

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

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

By Nick Nahas

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

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

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

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

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

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

* 813-974-7889

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

LOCAL DUO TURN ADVERSITY INTO NEW LAWN CARE BUSINESS

Courageous, brave, determined. These are just some of the words that describe the owners of O My Lawn.

Taylor and Jared Ramella have pushed through adversity and come out the other side with their new small business, O My Lawn LLC.

Jared has always had a passion for being outside and working in the yard. He has memories of his grandfather driving him around with a push mower and advertising as RentA-Kid for lawn care; working in the yard even as a young child put Jared into the landscaping industry for a long time.

Taylor

have fought through adversity, and after struggling to fnd Jared a reliable job, the Ramellas decided to open their own business, O My Lawn LLC.

In 2014, Jared was hit by a car while riding his motorcycle, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. After years of gazing out the window and watching someone else mow their grass, Jared decided he was tired of watching someone work on something he loved.

After getting married in February this year, Jared is more than ready to be able to support his family, and O My Lawn was the perfect solution for the Ramellas.

“I truly just wanted to be a member of

TWO NEWSOME STUDENTS START CHEER TEAM FOR PEERS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

society again,” said Jared, the face and ‘legs’ of O My Lawn, “and truthfully, give myself a purpose while being a provider for my now family.”

Serving the Wimauma, Brandon and Riverview areas, O My Lawn is the newest lawn care business in the community. With a focus on restoration and monthly lawn care, O My Lawn provides mowing, weed eating, leaf blowing, edging, hedge and tree trimming, weed control, pressure washing services and more.

Both Taylor and Jared were born and raised in the Ruskin/ Wimauma area. The Ramellas enjoy being able to help community members in the area.

From needing others to help him to being able to help others, Jared has pushed through with Taylor by his side and can now continue working on his passion. For more information or to hire O My Lawn LLC, please contact Taylor at omylawnllc@gmail.com.

The FishHawk Wolfpack Cheer Team is starting a challenger team for athletes with special needs that want to take part in their cheer program.

Callie Hancock, a junior student at Newsome High School and member of the Wolfpack Cheer Team, started the challenger team to create an inclusive and fun opportunity for her peers with special needs.

“Junior Alyssa Gardner and I were both Wolfpack cheerleaders when we were younger. … We wanted to give kids of diferent abilities an opportunity to make memories like us,” explained Callie.

The team will ofer a way for athletes with special needs to stay active and engaged with their friends while being supported by their coaches and teammates. Callie was inspired by her younger sister, Leyton, who has cerebral palsy, to create a team to reach FishHawk kids with special needs.

“She is my biggest inspiration and I have seen everything she has been through. As she has gotten older, it has been harder and harder for her to participate in younger kid activities. This program allows her and other special needs

By Lily Belcher

kids in our community to participate in ways that they normally cannot,” said Callie.

The co-ed team will start on Tuesday, August 1, with practices on Monday nights. Callie is hoping to have around 10 athletes on the cheer squad in their inaugural season. Students between 5-18 years old can register online for $150, which includes a practice set, uniform and bow. Callie and Gardner will coach the team, using their experience with the Wolfpack Cheer Team to guide their new cheerleaders.

“I was not surprised at all. Callie is the hardest working, motivated and driven teenager I know. She has always been the absolute best big sister to Leyton,” said Callie’s mother, Malinda Hancock. “… Callie and Alyssa will be the most amazing coaches.”

The Wolfpack Cheer Team are six-time national champions in their 17th year in the FishHawk community. The recreational cheer program is located of FishHawk Boulevard in Lithia.

For more information, visit www.fishhawkwolfpack.com or contact fhwolfpackcheercoordinator@gmail.com.

Michael Francis, Music Director

and Jared Ramella

Callie Hancock and Alyssa Gardner cheering for the Wolfpack Cheer Team in 2012.

Callie and Malinda Hancock at a 2012 cheer competition.

BLOOMINGDALE’S CHURCH NAMED WRESTLING COACH OF THE YEAR

By Jane Owen

good program into a great program. He challenges the boys to be better wrestlers every day, and they have responded,” Bogue said. The wrestlers have benefitted from his strong work ethic.

KRAZY CUP OWNER FRANK TRUNZO’S AUCTIONEER STORY

By Kathy L. Collins

Bloomingdale High School wrestling coach Mark Church was named this year’s Joel Medgebow Memorial Wrestling Coach of the Year. He was presented the award at the Hillsborough County School District meeting on March 30. The award is given yearly to honor the memory of Robinson High School wrestling coach Joel Medgebow.

Church took over as head coach this year at Bloomingdale after serving as an assistant for the last five years. He decided he could not leave the athletes after the previous coach, Dennis Kitko, moved overseas.

He not only didn’t leave them, but he also led them to victory. Ten wrestlers competed at regionals, six wrestlers competed at states and four wrestlers finished the season as state medalists. Church is also the assistant girls’ wrestling coach.

Sara Bogue, Bloomingdale High School’s athletic director, said Church teaches resilience.

“Coach Church has done a phenomenal job with our wrestling team. It has been exciting to watch him turn a really

“Coach Church is a great coach because he is always there for us ready to work. He always pushes us to our limits, and he helps us learn from our mistakes,” said junior wrestler J.R. Singer.

Coach Church focuses on conditioning and teaching basics. He credits the wrestlers, administration and parents that believed in him.

“None of it would have been possible if it weren’t for the kids who believed in me as much as I believed in them, especially as a first-year head coach. I was honored from day one that the admin, coaches, wrestlers and parents all entrusted me, which allowed me to keep it simple and just focus on wrestling,” Church said.

“It was definitely humbling to receive such an award from my fellow coaching peers. It’s also really cool to have my name on the same trophy with my mentor and coach — the legendary Russ Cozart,” Church added.

He wrestled under Cozart at Brandon High School. Church was the 1995 state champion for 112 lbs.

Frank Trunzo, owner of Krazy Kup in Plant City, is the head auctioneer for Sotheby’s Concierge Luxury Real Estate Auctions. Trunzo’s path to this auspicious role has been an interesting one.

Trunzo grew up in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. He worked as a railroad brakeman and a lead singer in a production rock band in Texas. The latter did not last long, and he moved back to Pittsburg, where became an antique dealer. He was then hired on to be an auctioneer apprentice. He became a prominent auctioneer in Pittsburg and then landed in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he became the go-to celebrity auctioneer. He was thriving in the business.

Unfortunately, his personal life was not so successful. Following a divorce from his first wife, he moved back to Pittsburg, where he met the love of his life: his wife, Wenda. Trunzo explained, “During our time in Pittsburg, my antiques and auction knowledge landed me a position as head auctioneer of the then world-famous Great Gatsby Architectural Antiques Auction in Atlanta.”

Trunzo continued, “A sudden death of the owner ended that quest but opened a door to become head auctioneer at Dargate Galleries, a newly formed upscale antiques and art gallery in Pittsburg.”

Trunzo was then ofered a job in Florida. “In 10 days, I won the state auctioneer championship and two auto auctioneer jobs,” Trunzo explained. “Success of a contract auctioneer was mine. I was working contract auto auctions throughout the East Coast every day. Then, to my dismay, the internet captured the market. Trunzo then established a benefit auction business, which took of. Then, another opportunity presented itself. “I was ofered head auctioneer of a newly formed luxury real estate auction company. It was a big gamble,” Trunzo said.

“I have pedigree now. I went from selling items for one dollar in a country hall auction barn to selling multimillion dollar properties,” Trunzo said.

Trunzo has conducted over 5,000 auctions valued at over 5 billion dollars. “I hold the world record for the most expensive properties sold at live auction. I have conducted two historic auctions at Sotheby’s New York gallery and one in London,” Trunzo added.

To keep up the energy he needs Trunzo owns the popular Krazy Cup cafe offering live music, authenic cofee, events and private rooms, located at 101 EJ Arden Mays Blvd. Plant City. For info, visit www.krazycup.com.

Coach Church received the Joel Medgebow Memorial Wrestling Coach of the Year award at the Hillsborough County School District meeting on March 30.

Frank Trunzo received the much-coveted White Glove Award for 100 percent sellthrough. He sold an incredible $38 million in just 58 minutes.