Osprey Observer Brandon/Winthrop May 2020

Brandon/Winthrop

23 C E L E B R A T I N G

May 2020 Volume 15 Issue 5 Ph: 657-2418 1 8

Y E A R S

O F

P U B L I S H I N G

P O S I T I V E

C O M M U N I T Y

N E W S

Kiwanis Club Supports Two Local Nonprofits With Matching Donation Program

Homebound Residents Receive Home-Cooked Meals From Greater Brandon Meals On Wheels

those in our With a community commitment to maybe we ending childcould spur hood hunger them to give and improving $20, $50, nutrition for $100 or children, the more,” Daigle Kiwanis Club said. “Then of Greater we could Brandon is increase our sponsoring a impact.” fundraiser to Daigle, support two The matching donation program is just one of many the club’s local nonprofinitiatives the Kiwanis Club of Greater Brandon hosts its working to throughout the year to fight childhood food insecurity foundation president, also address both and improve nutrition for children. said that while issues. many nonprofits The organiare continuing zation is proto do their best moting a matchto service ing fundraiser clients, for ECHO and resources are stretched thin as Seeds of Hope. ECHO’s misdonations slow with a number sion is to assist Hillsborough of people in the community County residents in crises with finding themselves out of work. emergency food and clothing “Just like many other nonas well as access to programs profits, their resources have that may help them find stability been stretched to the breakin life. Seeds of Hope works to ing point,” he said. “Cash provide various forms of assisdonations are way down and tance to local residents in need. their pool of volunteers has The idea is simple, the group shrunk.” will match donations given to The matching donation the two organizations up to fundraiser runs until Sunday, $5,000.

May 31. The two organizations will split Mike Daigle, a member of the the matching funds once the campaign Kiwanis Club, said the club wanted to ends. To participate, go to www.branfind a way to make its donation grow donkiwanis.org and look for ‘Support and have a greater impact. He said the Our Community Projects’ near the botclub made an immediate donation of tom of the homepage. $2,500 to each organization, then The website also has more informaannounced that it would donate matchtion about the Kiwanis Club of Greater ing dollars up to another $5,000.

Brandon, its programs, mission and ini“Rather than just donate $10,000, we decided that if we could connect with tiatives.

There is a live alone, and small army of volfor many of unteers who them, the permeet every son delivering Monday. Reveille the meal is often is early in the the only person kitchen at they will see that Westminster day.” Eklund Church of also said that Brandon. The the program is objective must be truly a mission Hillary’s Helpers, back row (L-R): Martin Murphy, of many hearts accomplished Jan Leathers, Susan Friederichsen, Pastor Wes and many before 14:00 Holland, Geraldine Campbell and Maribel Fox. hours (2 p.m.

Front row (L-R): Hilary Eklund, Jack Holloway, hands.

Hillary Allen, Richard Miller and JoEllen Miller. Westminster civilian time) that day. Its mission never changes: to prePresbyterian donates by providing the pare and deliver nourishing mid-days kitchen, paper goods, electricity, utensils meals on Mondays to those in the and pastor-power.

Brandon community to enrich the indeAlthough not associated with a pendent lives of homebound residents. national organization, Greater Brandon The ‘code name’ of this operation is Meals on Wheels started in 1976 with Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels, Inc. three churches and has grown to 18 There are many individuals on this churches dedicated to providing hot team ensuring its success, like Jack meals five days a week for homebound Holloway, route coordinator, who mainpeople unable to prepare their own tains the weekly deliveries. However, home-cooked meals. Not even COVIDmany suggest Hillary Allen, chief chef, 19 deterred Hillary’s Helpers from their should be given the honorary title of serMonday mission. Through established geant major for achieving ‘mission guidelines, clients are screened in their accomplished’ each week. Volunteer homes to verify need. To apply or for Hilary Eklund came up with an idea to information on donation opportunities, give Allen special recognition for donating visit www.brandonmealsonwheels.com. so much of her time and heart. Recently, Allen was surprised as each kitchen volunteer was presented with a unique uniInThis Issue form…an apron with ‘Hillary’s Helpers’ embroidered on it by volunteer JoEllen Miller.

PARADE CANCELLED ..........................PG 3 Although Westminster Church on FRONT PORCH PHOTOS .....................PG 4 Lumsden Rd. is bustling with activity each Monday as dedicated volunteers prepare ALL PRO DADS....................................PG 5 approximately 100 meals, it is a complex HISTORY‐BLOOMINGDALE SCHOOL...PG 6 and well-executed operation. Allen is in charge of planning each week’s menu DAKIN DAIRY FARMS..........................PG 7 and purchases the food usually on CHALKLINES....................................PG 10 Sundays. Pastor Wes Holland picks up donated bread from Panera Bread also DISTRICT STORY TIME ....................PG 23 on Sundays. Normally, 10 ‘kitchen crew’ OSCAR MAYER WEINERMOBILE .....PG 24 volunteers arrive early at the church to prepare the food, then another 10 drivers READ MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE transport the meals to those in need. www.ospreyobserver.com According to Eklund, “Fifty-nine percent of home-delivered meal recipients

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DRIVE THRU OPEN Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA is pleased to announce a $50,000 gift from United Way Suncoast. The emergency funds are part of a more than $1.2 million of COVID-19 emergency assistance being distributed to human services agencies across the Florida Suncoast to support housing/shelter, food, childcare & more. See Page 12 for full story.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 15, Issue 5

May 2020

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Local Bloomingdale Teen Entertains Neighbors With Front Yard Cello Concerts

By Libby Hopkins

The COVID-19 Orchestra as well. He pandemic and the seems to excel at mandatory stay-ateverything he does.” home order has Jordan has hosted three turned most high cello concerts in his school students’ lives front yard since March. upside down. Jordan The last concert he Hierholzer of hosted was on April 19 Bloomingdale is and his cello instructor, using his mandatory Diego Villa, accompastay-at-home time to nied him. “I have been lift the spirits of his taking lessons with Mr. neighbors. Jordan Villa for the last four Photo credit to Jane Anne Owen of the has been hosting Bloomingdale Gazette years and when we told cello concerts in his Jordan Hierholzer of Bloomingdale is him what I was doing, using his mandatory stay-at-home he asked if he could join front yard on the time to lift the spirits of his neighbors. weekends for his me,” Jordan said. “I Jordan has been hosting cello Fairway Manor neighplayed the Concerto No. concerts in his front yard neighborhood in Bloomingdale. borhood in 1 in C Minor by Joseph Bloomingdale. “My mom and dad gave Haydn. It was really a nice piece.” me the idea to do it,” Jordan said. “I did it Villa and Jordan rehearsed the piece because it’s the right thing to do right together for 20 minutes via FaceTime and now. I want people who need to listen to then performed the concert in Jordan’s music to come out and listen to it. I want front yard, six-feet apart from each other. them to be joyful and feel joyful about the “People who were driving in their cars music.” stopped to listen,” Laura said. “People Jordan is 17 years old and in 10th walking by stopped to listen as well.” grade at Bloomingdale High School. He is Laura is unbelievably proud of her also on the autism spectrum, but his parson for what he is doing for their neighents have worked hard with him since he borhood. “I’m so proud of him and he is was in kindergarten to get him mainso inspiring,” Laura said while tearing up streamed. “Today, Jordan is in honor a bit. “Jordan has always had a knack for classes at his high school, on the varsity bringing smiles to everyone’s faces. To track and cross county team and has see him play in our front yard for people been on the varsity team since his freshis overwhelming and amazing.” man year,” said Laura Hierholzer, Jordan plans on hosting more front Jordan’s mom. “He has been playing the yard concerts in the near future. “I plan on cello and piano for the last four years. He doing more concerts soon,” Jordan said. is in the orchestra at Bloomingdale and “I’ve been trying to do them every other he is in the Tampa Metropolitan Youth weekend, weather permitting.”

Roundtable Cancels 63rd Fourth Of July Parade But Moves Forward With Mayor’s Race

By Stacie Miller

date, Valrico resident Dawn Marshall.

Traditionally, The Honorary Mayor of Brandon race consists of community members declaring their candidacy and fundraising for local charities during the month leading up to the parade. Every dollar raised is donated to Brandon area nonprofits. Whoever earns the most money for their designated charities earns The Community Roundtable will host the Brandon the title. But as Marshall is Fourth of July Parade for the 63rd year this summer. the only candidate this year, Despite The Community Roundtable she automatically receives the title.

Board of Directors’ difficult decision earlier Marshall will be raising money for this month to cancel the Sixty-Third John’s Hopkins All Children’s Hospital Annual Brandon Fourth of July Parade, and has already planned virtual events the group’s Honorary Mayor’s Race is including an online ball and a Facebook kicking off in June with the goal of helping auction. Once elected, she is also plana local charity when it needs it the most. ning to put together a cabinet with posiAccording to The Community tions including Dog Catcher, Town Cryer, Roundtable’s President Janine Nickerson, Hush Money Specialists and more, for the board thought long and hard and con- which she will be accepting bribes, sulted with the Sheriff’s Office Homeland “Our big goal, to raise funds for local Security Division about the decision to charities, is even more important than cancel the parade, which is one of the ever in these times,” said Nickerson. largest in the state of Florida, but decided Nickerson and the board are planit needed to put safety first. ning for next year’s parade and encour“It was a very disappointing decision age residents to start thinking about volfor our Brandon tradition,” said Nickerson. unteering now. To learn more about The “But we felt that cancelling was the only Community Roundtable and The way we could be sure to keep our particiHonorary Mayor of Brandon, call 661pants and spectators safe during this 4350 or visit www.thecommunityroundtime.” table.org.

However, Nickerson and the board Look for a full story on Marshall and are excited to announce that in another her campaign in next month’s edition of unprecedented turn, this year’s Honorary The Osprey Observer.

Mayor’s Race will have only one candi-

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 15, Issue 5

HART Essential Employees Receive Hand Sanitizer Donation From Local Brewery

Local Photographer Supports ECHO Food Bank With Front Porch Photo Sessions

The Hillsborough Area Regional largest owned breweries in the state of Transit Authority (HART) motormen, bus Florida, began bottling hand sanitizer in operators and response to paratransit COVID-19. operators are “HART offers essential thanks to this comemployees munity partner for who provide a the company’s gencritical service erosity,” said to the commuCarolyn House nity like medStewart, interim ical personnel, chief executive offifirst responcer of HART. “The ders, pharmadonation comes at cists and groa crucial time when HART employees received a generous cery store supplies are limited. donation of hand sanitizer from 3 Daughters employees.

The agency appreciBrewing.

Recently, ates our dedicated HART employees, who received a now operate a huge ‘thank Sunday schedule you’ from 3 on all routes, thus Daughters fulfilling our transit Brewing. mission to the pubThe local lic.” brewery donat“We continue to ed a generous wish health and supply of hand safety for all and sanitizer for HART’s frontline employees, are increasingly thankful for the people who are professionals committed to who are putting their lives on the line to keeping transportation options available protect the health of others. We thank for essential trips in Hillsborough County. you and your organization for being a “They graciously donated 10 gallons Florida Hero,” said Brian Horne, vice of their sanitizer for our operators and president of sales and marketing at 3 motormen,” said HART Bus Daughters Brewing.

Transportation Manager Brian Abrams, HART made the donated hand saniwho reached out to 3 Daughters tizer immediately available to all operaBrewing after he spotted a social media tors. post.

Visit www.goHART.org for the latest 3 Daughters Brewing, one of the HART service information.

Navy nicknames— Bishop Howie and Mac. It’s a Desmond Tutu once special reminder to said, “You don’t me to see all things choose your family. with my heart and not They are a gift from just my eyes. That’s God, as you are to how I photograph. I them.” Tina Cardoso left my corporate would agree with career in November Bishop Tutu because 2018 to do my fullher grandfather, time photo business Howard McPike, was and have been so in a gift to her. Cardoso love with what I’m is a photographer doing.” and the owner of Howie Mac Photo in Riverview is With the recent Howie Mac Photo in offering porch photo sessions with a pandemic, COVID-19 Riverview. “Howie portion of the proceeds being donated Cardoso wanted to Mac Photo is named to ECHO. use her photography skills to give back to after my grandfather, Howard McPike,” the community. After much debate, she Cardoso said. “My father passed when I decided to do porch photo sessions and was one and my mom moved us here to donate a portion of the proceeds from the Brandon to live two doors down from my sessions to ECHO. “Honestly, I wasn’t grandparents. My grandfather had a big going to do the porch sessions because impact in raising me, including my creof the stay-at-home order, but I’ve had so ative side. He was a retired Navy captain many requests for them,” Cardoso said. “I who was painting with Bob Ross and know that ECHO is working really hard to making beautiful artwork for his home.

Our motto, ‘See all things with your heart, support families in our community by providing food to them. Their demand has not just your eyes,’ came from a time increased dramatically with people losing when my grandfather taught me that I their jobs and I want to do whatever I can can paint the sun however I see it.” to help.”

In 2005, Cardoso began taking care The cost is $50 for a 10-minute sesof her grandfather. “I stopped working to help him, and during that time I went back sion and three digitals you can choose.

Clients can upgrade the session for $100, to school for photography,” Cardoso said. which will give them all of the final digital “I was blessed to be able to spend that images (six+ images) and the extra $50 special time with him, and also to photowill be donated to ECHO. graph him during that time. In 2010, Howie Mac Photo is located at 11292 shortly after my daughter was born, I Sullivan St. in Winthrop Town Centre in decided to open my photo company and Riverview. www.howiemacphoto.com name it after my grandfather, using his

Staff Report

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May 2020

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

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All Pro Dad To Hold Virtual Meetings To Continue Strengthening Father-Child Relationships

By Taylor Wells

2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico, FL 33592 • (office) 657-2418 • (fax) 657-4469 MANAGING EDITOR

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his chapter members have strengthened fatherchild connections through their meetings at the local school, which usually 150 or more members attend.

“All Pro Dad is just really connecting dads and kids,” said Gaffney, “and encouraging and reminding the dads that, let’s be a hero in our house and in our community, let our kids see us in Dads of Bevis Elementary All Pro Dad singing “You are that role. And that’s hopeMy Sunshine” to the children. fully what we’ve done this year.”

All Pro Dad—a fatherhood proActivities that his chapter has gram of Family First, a Tampa-based, done include building a bench for the national nonprofit—will continue its school’s playground; going to a Bucs mission of bringing dads together with game; dads telling their kids what their kids through its All Pro Dad about them they’re proud of and vice Virtual Chapter Guide, which will proversa; kids playing games to learn and vide existing All Pro Dad Chapters practice topics like leadership, reliabiliaccess to tools and resources to conty and self-control; doing a clay shoottinue regular breakfast chapter meeting fundraiser to support the nonprofit ings in a virtual space.

Operation Lotus, helping families in Through these chapters’ monthly need; and much more. school gatherings, dads and their kids Of course, moms and other family engage in meaningful conversations members are welcome and encourand activities centered around a charaged to join the meetings, but the acter-based curriculum, and in a time emphasis is on father-child relationwhen physical interaction and socialships. With the pandemic situation, ization is not possible, All Pro Dad Gaffney and his chapter seek to conbelieves father-child connections tinue the meetings however they can, should remain a priority—virtually or including virtually. otherwise.

“Fathers have an incredible role to All Pro Dad Virtual Chapter Guide materials include directions for running play in their children’s lives, particularly during times of uncertainty,” said a chapter meeting with Zoom®. It will Tony Dungy, co-founder of All Pro Dad. help leaders navigate virtual meeting “Though current circumstances prenuances while listing upcoming dates vent us from coming together physicalfor online All Pro Dad Chapter meetly, the All Pro Dad Virtual Chapter ings, which will be made available to Guide will allow chapter members to those who are unable to host a virtual gathering on their own. Current All Pro gather remotely to continue building Dad team captains can access materi- relationships and making memories.”

For more information on the All als through their chapter’s online Pro Dad program, where to find a local dashboard. chapter or how to start your own chapJim Gaffney, leader of the Bevis ter, visit allprodadchapters.com.

Elementary All Pro Dad Chapter, and

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 15, Issue 5

The Bloomingdale School, First Teacher Training Site In Hillsborough County If you were pressed to name the location of the first teacher training school in Hillsborough County, would you answer: Bloomingdale?

The Bloomingdale School, for the primary grades, opened its doors in 1884 thanks to the efforts of Ludwig W. Buchholz. Buchholz completed his formal education in his native country, Germany, and continued his education in France and Italy. By 1880, his health began to fail, and he immigrated to Tampa after his doctors recommended a warmer climate. Buchholz intended to make his living by cultivating orange groves.

However, he found Tampa town land unsuitable for citrus farming and moved to Bloomingdale. There he bought an 80acre plot of land from the John Carney family for his groves. (John Carney, another famed Bloomingdale resident, was ambushed and killed by Seminoles on this farm in 1856 during the Third Seminole War.) In 1883, Buchholz began urging Bloomingdale area residents to build a school for their children. The community responded enthusiastically by collecting sufficient money for building materials and educational supplies, and the Bloomingdale School accepted its first students in September 1884. Buchholz was named its first teacher and taught students there until 1886.

The wood framed, one-room building was located about one mile north of today’s intersection of Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and Bloomingdale Ave. on Pearson Rd. It was the second school building constructed in Hillsborough County and the first built outside of the City of Tampa.

(In 1876, the first Hillsborough County

school was constructed in downtown Tampa. Beginning in 1885, that building served as Hillsborough High School’s first home.)

In 1887, Buchholz was named superintendent of public instruction for all of Hillsborough County. Before he took the job, Buchholz extracted a promise from the County to provide better teachers. He believed that the same kind of rigorous training he had received in Germany should apply to educators teaching Florida’s children. While college-trained teachers did hold jobs in some Florida towns, there were not enough trained teachers to meet demand. That shortage was particularly acute in rural schools, where teachers were often appointed, with no real experience or training, simply because they agreed to do the job. His answer was to create the state's first county ‘normal school’ for teacher training at the Bloomingdale School.

‘Normal school’ is the historical term for an institution created to train primary grade teachers how to teach. His school for teachers operated at the Bloomingdale School house for its first

Expiration: 5/31/2020

two months with 22 students enrolled from as far away as Gainesville and Dade County. Classes were held after the local children left for the day and taught by Buchholz himself, but space was limited in the small school.

Buchholz was forced to move the normal school to the nearby Presbyterian Church.

Attendance averaged 54 students, and by 1893 that location was also bursting at the seams, so Buchholz moved the normal school to Plant City for more room and again in 1901 to St. Petersburg. The normal school merged with the University

Expiration: 5/31/2020

By Charles Nelson

of Florida in 1905.

Buchholz went on to serve as an instructor and dean at both Florida State and the University of Florida before returning to Hillsborough County to serve as superintendent of schools. The Bloomingdale School served students until it was closed in 1920. At that time, students were sent to Brandon for schooling, and the building was converted into a private residence.

Charles Nelson Bio Charles Nelson holds a MA degree in History from George Mason University and taught as an adjunct instructor at HCC (Dale Mabry). He is also affiliated with Tampa Bay History Center as a volunteer docent, researcher and community lecturer, with an emphasis on South Hillsborough County history.

Expiration: 5/31/2020

May 2020

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Dakin Dairy Farms Gets Creative With Local Pop-Up Markets To Reach Customers

By Tatiana Ortiz

There isn’t and to make it easmuch better ier for residents to than farm fresh purchase fresh milk, and Dakin milk. Dakin providDairy Farms, ed Osterling with a located in milk maid truck and Myakka City, scheduled pop-up used the tough sales at small busitimes during the nesses throughout COVID-19 panthe area. demic to bring During milk to Brandon the poparea residents in ups, cusa creative way. tomers are Jennifer Osterling, also known Like many as able to purthe Dakin Milk Maid, visited other businesschase fresh small businesses throughout es, Dakin Dairy the area last month with her milk truck, selling whole, two percent, farm fresh milk to residents.

Farms felt the one percent and effects of the pandemic and had to adapt fat-free milk for $2.50 a gallon, chocolate its business model. milk for $6 a gallon and much more. The According to Owner Jerry Dakin, the milk maid truck operates from Tuesday low point of the last few months was through Saturday at various locations and when the farm had to dump 6,000 gallons accepts cash, debit and credit cards. To per tanker of raw milk a week because learn more about the pop-up times and the cost to produce without demand for locations, check out the Dakin Family purchase was too high. This hardship led Farms Facebook page. to Dakin Dairy Farms implementing new Residents are also invited to visit the ways to get their products into more Farm Market, where they can buy milk, homes in different communities. cheese and more. Cream is also avail“We are a family-owned farm comable in gallons for $5. mitted to providing consumers with the “We are proud to have the Dakin Milk freshest, grass-fed, local milk at the highMaid on our team and feel grateful for all est quality as the cows remain here onof the community’s support,” Dakin said. site,” Dakin said.

For more information, visit Last month, Dakin Dairy Farms https://dakindairyfarms.com. The dairy is employee Jennifer Osterling, also known located at 30771 Betts Rd. in Myakka as the Dakin Milk Maid, presented Dakin City. Hours of operation for the Farm with the idea of setting up pop-up milk Market are Monday through Friday, 9 shops throughout the area. Her goal was a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. to unite small businesses and farmers Call 941-322-2802 to learn more.

Karla Marie Carolan, J.D. Jacqueline O. Ellett, J.D., LL.M.

Don’t Let Fears Drive Your Investment Choices

by Joanna Springstead

First, it was the coronavirus.

Then, oil prices fell more than 20 percent. The result? Big drops in the financial markets. As an investor, what should you do?

For one thing ... don’t panic!

And keep looking for buying opportunities. Well-run companies that were good investment targets before the coronavirus and the oil price drop are still going to be attractive when the dust finally settles – and right now, the prices of these companies are literally on sale.

Historically, the financial markets have experienced everything from wars to It's tough to look at your natural disasters to political investment statements JOANNA crises, so today’s events SPRINGSTEAD today. But you’re investing are not game-changers.

Financial Advisor for goals that may be decYour best move, ades away. By keeping however, is to make sure you have your eyes on this distant horizon, a balanced portfolio reflecting your you’re less likely to over-react to risk tolerance and long-term goals. the news of the day – and more The more diversified you are, the likely to follow a long-term strategy better you’ll be able to withstand that can work for you. short-term shocks to the financial markets.

joanna.springstead@edwardjones.com

813-657-2078

16132 Churchview Dr, Suite 201, Lithia, FL 33547 FishHawk Ranch Park Square | 2nd Floor MEMBER SIPC

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

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adline e D p i h s Scholar ded, HCC Exten nd & More Fu Student ennett nny B om ed by Je Compil preyobserver.c s o @ tt jbenne

GFWC Brandon Service League Extends Deadline For Scholarship Applications

The GFWC Brandon Service League has extended the deadline to apply for its scholarship opportunities until Monday, June 1. The GFWC Brandon Service League offers two $1,000 scholarships to high school seniors who wish to pursue a degree in the arts or education. The GFWC Brandon Service League also offers a $1,000 for women who are posthigh school age but are returning to school to get training for a new career.

Please visit gfwcbrandonserviceleague.org for rules and to download the application. Send the completed application to Judy Darsey, 12750 Balm Boyette Rd., Riverview, FL 33579.

Relief For Special Needs

FamiliesThe COVID-19 pandemic has affected everyone’s lives, especially those of families that have children and young adults with autism. Part of Experienced Autism Alliance’s mission is to assist families, this is why it has created the Special Need Family Relief Program.

Its goal is to help provide relief during this time of need.

Donations can be dropped at: Dickey’s Barbeque Pit, 10463 Gibsonton Drive between 11a.m. - 9p.m.

If you or someone you know is in

Volume 15, Issue 5

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

need of assistance, please contact Experienced Autism Alliance at www.eaall.org.

Hillsborough Community College Announces Student Emergency Fund

As a reaction to the challenges students are facing through these unprecedented times, the Hillsborough Community College Foundation established the HawkStrong Student Emergency Fund. These funds will be provided to currently enrolled students to cover costs of housing, food, childcare and other immediate financial needs that could keep them from completing the semester. Many HCC students are already fighting to stay in school because of the economic disadvantage brought on by this pandemic; with assistance from the community, the college can make sure it doesn’t lose the fight. To find out more or to make a donation, visit www.hccfoundation.com/hawkstrong/.

Library Book Drops Reopen

The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative is working to restore library services to it’s customers in a gradual and safe manner. The first step is to open book drops to accept returns at locations including Bloomingdale Regional Public Library. Book drops will be Monday-Friday and you can return books there regardless of where you borrowed them from. Your returned items will be placed into quarantine and will still appear as “checked out” on your account. They will be checked in when safety and staffing permit. Check HCPLC.org for the latest library information.

The St. Vincent Food Pantry At St. Stephen Church Is Open

The St. Vincent de Paul food pantry is open to people in our area that are in need or may have recently lost their jobs.

The pantry operates at St. Stephen Catholic Church, located at 10118 St. Stephen Rd. in Riverview off of Boyette Rd. Pantry hours are Fridays from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The pantry is currently operating as a drive-thru in front of the church’s Family Life Center. Visitors will stay in their car and voluteers wearing face masks and gloves will load the food directly into the car so there is no contact between people.

Donations of food and/or money are also accepted on Friday mornings between 7:00 a.m. until 12:00 Noon.

Drop-offs can be made at the drive-thru in front of the Family Life Center. Checks should be made out to SvdP.

Virtual Women’s Support Group

In this difficult time, we could all use some support. Dr. Reba Haley, a therapist, and Jenise Griffin, a mental health advocate, will be hosting weekly Zoom meetings covering a variety of topics aimed towards women, including marriage, overcoming stress, coping techniques and other mental health issues.

Zoom meetings will be held on Thursday evenings from 7:30-8:30 p.m. The meeting ID is 502 307 7085 and the password is 7C5UVJ.

Grace Spring Market Rescheduled

Grace Community Methodist Church at 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia has rescheduled its Spring Market for Saturday, June 6 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

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Page 9

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Winthrop College Prep Academy Accepting Applications For Fall Opening

By Michelle Caceres

COVID-19 enrichment opportuniisn’t stopping ties tailored to her interparents and stuests.” dents from Each student learning more undergoes introductory about Winthrop interviews to determine College Prep college and career Academy, which aspirations, make initial is now accepting course selections and applications for develop connections the 2020-21 with mentors.

Winthrop College Prep Academy in Riverview is accepting applications for the school year.

The curriculum 2020-21 school year.

Founding emphasizes career Principal Chris Hammill, PhD, is hosting and college preparation and will offer the Facebook Live info sessions every option to complete more than 50 college Wednesday and Friday at 3:30 p.m. so credits while in high school on top of dual potential students can learn more about enrollment opportunities. Two academic the charter school, located at 12802 Hwy. tracks available to students include com301 in Riverview. The school is only puter science and biomedical science. accepting applications for ninth and 10th “Our computer science students will grade students this year; grades 11 and graduate with some industry certifications 12 will be added in subsequent years. and that’s something we’re really excited More than 350 have already enrolled about,” said Hammill. in the two grades, which will be capped at Students will be offered a variety of 600 students. When enrollment hits that enrichment opportunities, including a number, each student thereafter will be summer college camp, support programs, placed on a wait list based on the order in test prep sessions and workshops. which their application was received.

Classrooms are collaborative workspaces “I’m definitely anticipating a wait list with modern and flexible seating options. for this year, so enroll and lock in your The desks convert into standing desks. seat now,” said Hammill.

Every student is issued an iPad, teachers Riverview resident Melissa Rosado work on MacBooks and Wi-Fi is available doesn’t have to worry about the wait list. throughout the school.

Her daughter, Dennisse Mendez, has Winthrop College Prep Academy is a secured a spot in next year’s freshman tuition-free public charter high school. class. “She has attended charter schools “Me and my staff are really excited to since kindergarten and we love their phibegin this learning adventure with our stulosophy,” said Rosado. “We love the inno- dents,” said Hammill. vative programs they offer and I know For more, visit that with its smaller size my daughter will www.winthropprep.org, or call 678-2030 receive more attention and have plenty of with admissions-related questions.

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Congratulations To Area High School Valedictorians & Salutatorians

Compiled by Taylor Wells

“Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” —Nelson Mandela Congratulations are in order for this year’s area valedictorians and salutatorians from our area high school. These students have put in the hard work, the dedication and shown the drive to be the best of the best of their high school graduating class. And now, due to the pandemic and virtual classes ending the 2020 school year, they become the class high school seniors who gradated remotely.

We wish these students the absolute best of luck in their college careers and in their future and know that they will never forget graduating during a worldwide coronavirus quarantine.

As of today, the school district has released a tentative alternative graduation date and the county website lists the planned schedule. The first set would be held on July 13, with the last scheduled for July 21.

The ceremonies would be held at the Florida State Fairgrounds.

Please keep an eye on the district site for confirmation of dates and times. https://www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/ Please join us in congratulating all of the Hillsborough County seniors and those who are the top of their class! Well done!

Marie Gilmore

Valedictorian Gerardo Aponte

Salutatorian Catherine Harman

Valedictorian Andrew Tidd

Salutatorian Jordan Chastain

Brandon High School GPA 8.14 University of South Florida

Brandon High School GPA 6.88 University of South Florida

Bloomingdale High School GPA 8.64 Stanford University

Bloomingdale High School GPA 8.52 Undecided

Valedictorian Brindha-Lee Iyer

Salutatorian Arturo Fuentes Jr.

Valedictorian Benjamin Sherwin

Salutatorian Nicholas Sherwin

Strawberry Crest High School GPA 8.54 Harvard University

Strawberry Crest High School GPA 7.12 University of South Florida.

Strawberry Crest High School IB Program GPA 8.50 University of Florida.

Strawberry Crest High School IB Program GPA 8.49 University of Florida.

May 2020

Page 11

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Former Bloomingdale High School Student Graduates From The Air Force Academy

CFC037149

By Libby Hopkins

Poet Henry David history to do that, but he was Thoreau once said, “What the first to win at four different you get by achieving your weight classes. He is a twogoals is not as important as time NCBA All-American what you become by achievwho, along with the USAFA ing your goals.” Kendall team, had a very good ‘Levi’ Rate of Bloomingdale chance at winning nationals would agree with Thoreau. this year, if their season had Levi is a 2016 graduate not been cut short by the of Bloomingdale High coronavirus. He was also on School who graduated from the superintendent’s list for the Air Force Academy on Kendall ‘Levi’ Rate is a seven out of eight semesters April 18 in the first-ever while at the academy.

2016 graduate of Bloomingdale High livestreamed ceremony due Levi’s family is beyond School who graduated to COVID-19. His was the proud of all of his achievefrom the Air Force only class, across all military Academy on April 18 in ments. They were saddened the first-ever academies and civilian colthat they couldn’t be with him livestreamed ceremony leges, to be kept at school when he graduated, but they due to COVID-19. for the sole purpose of havwere thrilled that Levi’s dad ing a graduation ceremony. was able to commission him into the Air “In mid-March, the academy sent Force. “We set up the American flag at home the lowerclassmen and the upperour home and his dad was able to comclassmen stayed at the academy so we mission Levi into the Air Force virtually,” can graduate and be commissioned into said Levi’s mother, Kim Rate. “He is one the Air Force,” Levi said. of the most patriotic people I know and a Levi is the second oldest of five chilnatural protector. We are so proud of him dren and from a very young age he knew and we know he will be great no matter he wanted to attend the Air Force what he does in the Air Force.”

Academy. “I come from a military family,” Levi will be heading to Texas in June Levi said. “My dad is a 1992 graduate to start his training for intelligence and who retired from the Air Force in 2018 special operations with the Air Force. “I after 26 years of service and also taught am passionate about special operations,” at the academy. My family did not push Levi said. “I want to make the military my the military on me. I just knew from the lifetime career.” time I was 3-years-old that I wanted to be He knows he couldn’t have come in the Air Force.” this far without the love and support of Levi has had quite an amazing acahis family and community. “I want to demic career. He was a four-time Air thank my family and the community for Force Academy Wing Open Boxing supporting me all along my career. I Champion, the 16th person in academy couldn’t have done it without them.”

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Page 12

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 15, Issue 5

YMCA Receives $50,000 Assistance From United Way Suncoast

Moreno’s Bakery Delivers Sweet Surprise To Bridges Resident With Craving

Committed At this crucial moment, to ensuring when our communities working families need us more than in Tampa Bay ever, we appreciate the have access to continued support of childcare, the community partners, Tampa like United Way Metropolitan Suncoast.”

Area YMCA is The Tampa YMCA pleased to is using the funds to announce a offer all-day youth relief The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA $50,000 gift care at 11 centers for recently received a $50,000 gift from from United families who must conUnited Way Suncoast.

Way Suncoast. The emergency funds are tinue to work during the COVID-19 crisis part of a more than $1.2 million of while their kids are out of school. The Y’s COVID-19 emergency assistance from youth relief care provides academic supthe United Way Suncoast’s COVID-19 port and structure to help children mainResponse and Recovery Fund being distain their learning while also enjoying tributed to human services agencies enriching activities. across the Florida Suncoast to support “It is our job to raise funds, awarehousing/shelter, food, childcare, financial ness of need and mobilize volunteers for stability and mental health services. the critical services needed during this cri“Schools play such a vital role in sis. United Way Suncoast is proud to keeping kids safe, engaged and nourpartner with Tampa YMCA. This funding ished. While school’s out, there is a huge is being put to work to support working gap in the community to provide those families in our community,” said Jessica services,” stated Tampa YMCA President Muroff, CEO of United Way Suncoast. and CEO Matt Mitchell. “Thanks to the “United Way Suncoast, our donors generous support of United Way and volunteers are working hard to serve Suncoast, the Y can provide a safe and our community at a time of greatest need. nurturing environment for the children of Our region’s business community and first responders, healthcare professionals many generous individuals have conand other essential workers who play tributed to our COVID-19 Response and important roles keeping us safe and Recovery Fund to ensure that we have healthy. This generous gift helps the Y the immediate resources to support the serve these critical needs at a very nomimost vulnerable in our community,” said nal fee for these individuals who are riskUnited Way CEO Jessica Muroff. ing a lot. We want to make sure, at least For more, visit www.unitedwaysunin this part of their life, they can have coast.org. To learn more about the some normalcy and not have any worry.

YMCA, visit www.tampaymca.org.

One of Wanda Moreno’s Bakery to Everly’s joys in life is make a delivery,” shopping. Everly is a Noah said. “Susan resident at The Moreno then Bridges in Brandon, reached out to me and with the recent for specific instrucCOVID-19 pandemtions on the delivery ic, she is unable to leave her residency to shop and get Wanda and Bob Everly are another one of her residents at The Bridges in life’s joys…carrot Riverview. Wanda recently wanted cake. So, a local carrot cake. Since she was unable bakery worked hard to get her beloved carrot cake, her daughter and members of the to bring carrot cake community came together to get a to her. protocol. During this Moreno’s Bakery carrot cake.

“About two weeks ago, my mom time, we are very careful to sanitize items called me and said, ‘Laura, you’ve got to coming into our building. Obviously, with go Publix and get me carrot cake,’” said food items, we only disinfect the outside Laura Brundage, Everly’s daughter. “I told packaging. Susan personally delivered my mom that I wasn’t leaving the house that cake to me in a box wrapped in a to go to Publix and that if I did, I couldn’t plastic bag. I had the pleasure of deliverbring her the carrot cake because The ing it to Wanda and her husband, Bob.” Bridges wasn’t allowing visitors because Moreno was thrilled that she was of the virus.” able to help Brundage.

Brundage told a close friend of hers, “I have not been able to spend any who lives in Maine, and after searching time with my own parents because of online for bakeries in the their age and health and I think it’s imporBrandon/Riverview area that were still tant for us to do nice things for people open and doing deliveries, she found right now,” Moreno said.

Moreno’s Bakery in Brandon and emailed Brundage was deeply moved by it. everyone’s kindness and help in getting Susan Moreno, owner of Moreno’s her mother and step-dad the carrot cake.

Bakery, was initially told that she could “Susan Moreno and Janet Noah are the not bring a cake to The Bridges because true heroes in this cake caper,” Brundage of the quarantine restrictions, but she said. asked Brundage Janet Noah, director of To learn more about The Bridges and community relations at The Bridges, to the services it offers, visit www.bridgesresee if there was anything she could do. tirement.com. For Moreno’s Bakery, visit “I told her that it would be fine for www.morenobakery.com.

Staff Report

By Libby Hopkins

May 2020

Page 13

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

ECHO Faces New Demand And ‘Miracles In The Making’ As COVID-19 Makes Its Mark

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS IN BRANDON!

By Linda Chion Kenney

Unprecedented navirus pandemic. In conneed and just-in-time trast, ECHO in its latest miracles mark the full-year report served work of the 33-year10,452 individuals. old Emergency Care Stepping up to help Help Organization are houses of worship, (ECHO) in Brandon service clubs, businessand Riverview, as es, individuals, nonprofits the wave of people and families, McKinnon continues to grow in said, “including the Steele the wake of the corofamily, which drove up navirus shutdown. with 365 pounds of food ECHO in April, collected by their 8-yearcollectively at both its old son in their Triple Rotarian Debbie Meegan’s Brandon and Creek neighborhood.” grandchildren (left to right), Riverview locations, The list of Good Savanna, Blake and Matthew, served 3,168 individ- donate food to the Rotary Club of Samaritans includes Brandon’s ECHO food drive in April. BSAC, Centerpoint uals, a dramatic increase from the year before, when it Church, The Crossing Church, Next served 767 people the entire month. In Level Church, The Mission Continues, March, the numbers were 1,204 and the Rotary Club of FishHawk-Riverview 604, respectively. and the Rotary Club of Brandon.

While COVID-19 is a major factor in During the coronavirus shutdown, the 319 percent increase in demand, it ECHO is open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on also accounts for the cancellation of Wednesdays and Fridays, both for food ECHO’s major annual fundraiser donations and distributions, in Riverview (Empower ECHO Breakfast) and the two at 7807 Capitano St. and in Brandon at major food drives it depends on annually, 507 N. Parsons Ave. Feeding the Bay and the Letter Carriers’ As for food, ECHO is in need of Stamp Out Hunger® Food Drive. such things as baking items, canned “The giving of the community, it’s just fruits, cereals, condiments, vegetables, miracles in the making,” McKinnon said. beans and meats, as well as dry pasta “Miracles keep happening and it enables and rice. Jelly is a big need, McKinnon us to help our neighbors.” added, to go along with peanut butter.

To further illustrate the need, Bread with a short shelf life is picked McKinnon said this year through April, up daily from Costco, Publix and ECHO served 13,352 individuals, with Sprouts. the majority of the increase occurring in a For updates and more, visit six-week period when service days were www.echofl.org. Call for Brandon at 685cut from five to two because of the coro0935 and for Riverview at 540-9880.

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Page 14

Volume 15, Issue 5

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Neighborhoods And Businesses Get Creative To Thank Essential Workers

By Kate Quesada

Local business and residents have become creative recently showing their thanks to essential workers.

to-find masks to every local community with a Bass Pro Shops or Cabela’s store, boat center, distribution center and White River Marine Group manufacturing facility—over 200 communities in total. To support their efforts, visit www.convoyofhope.org/10mm.

Schools Thank Nutrition Services Workers

Earlier this month, schools throughout Hillsborough County found unique ways to thank the Nutrition Services employees who have worked tirelessly feeding children despite the schools being closed. Lithia Springs Elementary School in Valrico thanked their workers with a sign in front of the school.

An anonymous resident sent pizza to FishHawk’s Fire Station #44 last month.

Free Counseling Services From Healing The Broken Heart

To show appreciation for local first responders, educators, healthcare providers and mothers, Healing The Broken Heart, LLC Counseling Services is offering three counseling sessions for free via telehealth.

To learn more, email healingthebrokenheartllc@gmail.com or call 4303113. Visit www.healingthebrokenheartllc.com for more information on Healing The Broken Heart, LLC Counseling Services.

Residents in FishHawk Ranch’s Avocet village decorated their mail boxes to thank postal workers.

Waterset Holds Contactless Food Drive

sequestered, the women of Hacienda Heights completed the first batch of masks. Their efforts did not stop there, as they continue making masks for the residents of Rice Creek and Hacienda Heights who need them to go shopping.

To learn more, contact Farrell at 252-8622 or hhhoasecretary@gmail.com.

Residents Make And Distribute Masks

McDonald’s Offered Free Thank You Meals

When America ordered all senior citizens to self-quarantine themselves in order to curb the COVID19 pandemic, an appeal was made to replace the recycled PPE masks for the nurses working in local living centers.

Upon hearing about those in need, Roberta Enterline found kits for making masks and distributed them to Pat Sendzik, Janet Monte, Jane Keyes, Lori Neely, Sheryl Rausch, Tonda Parish and Susan Duffy.

Alan Nash, the Wilder Corporation general manager, and William Farrell, president of Hacienda Heights HOA, donated funds to purchase the needed materials. Within days of being

The Henzler Real Estate Team recently surprised workers at Brandon Regional Hospital’s Riverview Emergency Room with food and cupcakes from Sweetie’s Delights.

In appreciation for the healthcare workers, police officers, firefighters and paramedics who are committed to health and safety, McDonald’s offered free Thank You meals last month as a token of appreciation for their selfless service.

Each Thank You meal was available at no charge via drivethru or carry-out at participating McDonald’s restaurants nationwide and was served in its iconic Happy Meal box in hopes of bringing a smile along with delicious food.

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Bass Pro Shops Donated Masks

Bass Pro Shops Founder Johnny Morris personally donated one million FDA-approved ASTM Level 1 Procedure Face Masks to healthcare workers and first responders working on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis across the United States.

In Tampa, a total of 6,000 of these masks will be donated to two facilities—Brandon Regional Hospital and the Palm Gardens of Sun City Center Assisted Living Facility.

Convoy of Hope is utilizing its national network of partners and volunteers to identify appropriate local hospitals and medical facilities and help distribute the masks based on area needs and demands. The donation will provide thousands of hard-

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To learn more, call 684-1556 or visit www.hitechautomotiveofbrandon.com.

Brooks Pressure Washing Offers Sanitization

The Parkside Village neighborhood in FishHawk Ranch recently set out signs for essential workers thanking them for all they are doing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Waterset, a local masterplanned community by Newland, held a contactless food drive benefitting Feeding Tampa Bay. Waterset’s mascot, Manny the Manatee, drove through the neighborhood to collect nonperishable donations from residents’ driveways while spreading a safer-athome cheer to all ages. During this one-day food drive, Waterset’s residents raised nearly 1,000 meals for those in need in the Tampa Bay area.

HiTech Automotive Donates Oil Changes

In light of COVID-19, Brook Pressure Washing Inc. wants to help the community. The business is offering cleaning and sanitizing of playground equipment at local parks, churches, preschools and/or schools.

“We make no claims or guarantees of making this virus go away,” said the owner. “That would be completely irresponsible for anyone to do. Right now we are able to take on one to two projects per week.”

To sign up, complete the form at https://forms.gle/ZhA13Mw8Xc8nSd2 a7.

To learn more about the business, visit brookpressurewashing.com, call 6105251 or email info@brookpressurewashing.com.

Harbor Freight Donates Masks To Healthcare Workers

Harbor Freight recently decided to donate its entire supply of personal protective equipment items, including N95 masks, face shields and 5 and 7-mil nitrile gloves, to frontline hospitals with 24-hour emergency rooms in the communities served by its stores.

Workers in need are asked to email hospitalhelp@harborfreight.com and identify the hospital’s city and state in the subject line.

Complete Cleaning Service Solutions, LLC Offers Discount To Workers

Uzziel Lay, owner of a local cleaning company Complete Cleaning Service Solutions, LLC, is honoring first responders and healthcare professionals by offering 25 percent off on all carpets, tiles and grout cleaning.

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Page 15

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Dog Daycare • Training • Bathing

District Story Time For Students Welcomes Guest Readers Including Sheriff Chronister Staff Report

Many under the Storytime young students Online playlist. enjoy listening “As a community, to an adult we should be conreading a book, cerned about the acaespecially when demic frustration of that adult our more vulnerable immerses the students,” said School listeners into District Representative the pages and Tanya Arja. “That is characters in why Hillsborough such a way that County Public Schools they encourage has partnered with Tampa Bay Chamber President and CEO imagination, Hillsborough Bob Rohrlack read Whistle for Willie by Ezra Jack Keats to students last month. creativity and Education Foundation, fun. Unfortunately, not all children and the Tampa Bay Chamber and Scholastic youth have books at their fingertips, in expanding Storytime Online to include especially during the safer-at-home special edition episodes with business order as part of the global pandemic. leaders to run through June 30.”

Hillsborough County Public School The program began last month (HCPS) Board member Dr. Stacy Hahn when Hillsborough Schools developed Storytime Online, an early Superintendent Addison Davis, Dr. education literacy initiative that connects Hahn and Hillsborough Education schools, families and the public to the Foundation CEO Kim Jowell welcomed wonders of fiction books, provided by the first leader participant, Tampa Bay Capstone and launched in 2019. Each Chamber President and CEO Bob episode of Storytime Online features Rohrlack, who read Whistle for Willie by local dignitaries reading exciting books Ezra Jack Keats. in which children can follow along from Once videos are created and postthe comfort of their own homes and ed, Hillsborough County students and access for free through myON.com. families will be able to access the Recent participants have included recorded Storytime Online sessions Sheriff Chad Chronister, Mayor Jane through the district’s online learning platCastor, WWE Superstar Titus O’Neil form (Clever) and on the YouTube chanand Dr. Hahn herself. Due to physical nels of both HCPS and Hillsborough distancing orders, Dr. Hahn has been Education Foundation, as well as on the reading one book every day for social media sites for Hillsborough Storytime Online on her Facebook page County Public Schools, Hillsborough at 11 a.m. Those special episodes can Education Foundation and the Tampa be found on the district’s YouTube page Bay Chamber.

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Page 16

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 15, Issue 5

With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins

Center Place Awards Patricia B. Odiorne Scholarship To Two Deserving High School Seniors Each year, ing of this honor. The Center Place committee simply Fine Arts and could not choose Civic between the two.”

Association Ohme plans to awards the attend the University of Patricia B. Florida and study Odiorne either accounting or Scholarship to something in the engia deserving neering field. Ohme high school said of the scholarKate Ohme (left) from Newsome High School senior. This and Audra Nikolajski (right) from Bloomingdale ship, “I was so honyear was no ored when I found out High School are the 2020 recipients of the Patricia B. Odiorne Scholarship. different.

I received the award. I However, instead of one, it awarded two feel this scholarship shows how connectscholarships. ed I am to the arts. I want to inspire peoThis year’s scholarship recipients are ple with my artwork and music abilities.”

Kate Ohme from Newsome High School Nikolajski plans to triple major in jourand Audra Nikolajski from Bloomingdale nalism, psychology and education. She High School. would like to become an author and one The scholarship was created in day earn a PhD and become a professor. memory of Patricia B. Odiorne, who was Nikolajski said of the scholarship, “I was a community leader and was focused on both honored and elated to receive the making the Greater Brandon area a betaward. The Patricia Odiorne Scholarship ter place to live, work and raise a family. is such an incredible thing to be awarded Odiorne was involved in many civic because those selected are meant to be endeavors and received awards including kind, creative and dedicated pillars in the the Key Citizen Award and the Alice B. community.”

Tompkins Community Service Award.

Rodriguez added, “Pat’s leadership Odiorne was instrumental in helping and enthusiastic demeanor enabled us to to establish the Brandon Cultural Center, grow and become Center Place, where which is now known as Center Place. art and community come together. We According to Lisa Rodriguez, market- thank the Odiorne family for all their help ing director of Center Place, “This year’s and support at Center Place.” committee narrowed the applicants down For more information, please visit to two students who were equally deserv- www.centerplacebrandon.org.

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Winthrop Arts Offers Virtual Teen Drawing Class Winthrop a proud mom when I Arts offers see that they feel many different good about what they art classes at its have created or that teaching facility, they are trying differthe Art Factory, ent things than they located in normally would. I want Riverview. to teach them to Students in the Winthrop Arts Teen Drawing expand their horiClasses for Class, led by Mariel Bell, are able to interact children (5 and zons.” with one another virtually. While the Art up), teens The idea behind Factory is closed due to COVID-19, the class has been set up via Discord. Shown here are the Teen Drawing (sixth grade examples of the students’ works of art. and up) and Class is to provide adults are offered along with summer older students with an opportunity to crecamp. While the Art Factory is currently ate and learn. If they want to learn how closed due to COVID-19, it is still offerto put a portfolio together, Bell guides ing classes virtually either online or on them in this effort.

YouTube.

Bell also gets to know her students One of the most exciting classes so that she can tailor the lessons that offered is the Teen Drawing Class led by will best suit them. “I like to make the art instructor Mariel Bell. The class is set activities something that any of them can up on Discord. Students will create do. I ask questions of the students that accounts and log in on Saturdays from 3 allow me to familiarize myself with their to 4:30 p.m. They will be able to interact styles and what they like to create. In with one another and Bell and will learn that way, I can guide each student indiabout and create unique works of art. vidually as well as the class as a whole.”

Bell earned her Bachelor of Fine As the class is held virtually, Bell Arts degree from Smith College. She has had to adjust a bit. “I cannot give has worked at the Art Factory since them the materials to use, but I can still August 2019. Bell’s Teen Drawing Class give advice and introduce them to new is normally offered on Tuesdays from 6 topics,” explained Bell. to 7:30 p.m. She did not want her stuIf you have a student who is in sixth dents to miss out on creating art even grade or higher who would like to join though the Art Factory had to be closed, the Teen Drawing Class, please email so she came up with the idea of holding kathy@winthroparts.org and they will get the class online. you started.

Bell said, “I like seeing my students For more information on Winthrop grow in their artwork. I honestly feel like Arts, please visit www.winthroparts.org.

HOURS: Thurs • Fri • Sat from 10am - 6pm NO APPT. NECESSARY

May 2020

Page 17

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Local Businesses Adjust & Adapt With New Drive-Thru & Delivery Options Canine Cabana Offers Essential Workers Discount

Canine Cabana’s mission is to provide a safe, active and healthy recreational environment that meets canine physical and behavioral needs while improving the quality of life for both dogs and the owners who love them.

Although the dog daycare, lodging and private training location in Riverview remains open for all, it is offering 20 percent off on services for any essential business workers, including nurses, first responders, pharmacists, grocery workers, childcare workers, delivery workers and postal workers.

Call 672-9663 today.

Local Mathnasium Locations Offer Mathnasium@home

For parents with children at home, Mathnasium’s new service, Mathnasium@home, allows students to continue the same face-to-face Mathnasium instruction from anywhere with an internet connection.

Mathnasium@home was developed over three years for customers who had difficulty bringing their children into centers, and thousands of students have found it to be as effective as in-center learning.

Current concerns about public health have prompted the business to make it available to customers now.

There are three local Mathnasium locations. Mathnasium of Riverview is located at 11446 US Hwy. 301 and can be reached at 844-684-3265, Mathnasium of West Brandon is at 10268 Causeway Blvd. and can be reached at 333-6676 and Mathnasium of Brandon is located at 1048 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico and can be reached at 655-MATH (6284). For more information, visit www.mathnasium.com.

Full Grown Girl Offers Plants And More

After recently moving to a new location in the Winthrop Town Center, Full Grown Girl, which offers home decor, plants and gift items, had to quickly adapt when the pandemic hit. Owner Cynthia Atkins began letting customers shop online and offers Purple Bench Pickup, which allows for no-contact shopping. Hot purchases have been house plants, which are popular as gifts and to help freshen up air the home, and succulents.

To see all the items and make purchases, go to Fullgrowngirl.com or follow the store on Instagram @fullgrowngirl and Facebook at Full Grown Girl. To reach the store, call 629-1124.

Phoenix House Moves Outpatient To Zoom

In order to continue to provide highquality service to its patients, Phoenix House fully transitioned its outpatient program to Zoom for telehealth; every group and clinical assessment offered prior to COVID-19 is now being offered virtually.

Phoenix House Florida strongly believes that nothing should get in the way of a person seeking substance use treatment. Too often, addiction sufferers forgo potentially life-saving treatment thinking that it’s outside of their grasp.

Residents are encouraged to reach out today to find help. Call 881-1000, option 1. Financial assistance programs are available.

Motion Chirotherapy Adds Telehealth

The team at Motion Chirotherapy in Lithia is now offering consultations via video. Through these appointments, Dr. Robert Lutz, chiropractic physician, is able to assess, come up with a proper treatment plan and tell patients how to move correctly to decrease symptoms. The team is using telehealth for both new and existing patients who are practicing social distancing and do not want to come into the office. The appointment is done through Doxy.me, which is similar to Zoom but is HIPAA compliant.

Appointments can be made at www.motionchirotherapy.com or by calling 793-7791. Motion Chirotherapy is located in Lithia at 16765 Fishhawk Blvd. in the Winn Dixie Plaza.

Music Showcase Offers Virtual Lessons And Curbside Pickup

Music Showcase of Brandon is open and offering repair work and sales of strings, music, reeds, equipment and more with curbside pickup.

Private lessons and classes are offered virtually.

To learn more, call 685-5998 or visit www.musicshowcaseonline.com. The store is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

Therapist Offers Speech Therapy Online

Julie Samec Kogut, MA, CCC-SLP, speech-language pathologist and director/owner at Tampa Bay Speech, Language & Reading Clinic, is working online with patients for articulation, language, reading and writing.

Tampa Bay Speech, Language & Reading Clinic is located at 16132 Churchview Dr., Ste. 205 in Lithia. For more information, call 368-2485 or visit www.tampabayspeech.com.

Walker Hill Designs Launches eDesign Service

The team at Walker Hill Designs is excited to announce its new eDesign service to help clients virtually. Visit www.walkerhilldesigns.com or follow the business on Facebook and Instagram to learn more.

Comprehensive Center Offers Teledermatology

In an effort to continue caring for patients during the coronavirus pandemic, the Comprehensive Center for Dermatology recently launched a teledermatology platform so that patients can get medical advice from the comfort of their own homes.

The office, led by board-certified Dermatologist Dr. Jennifer Conde, will remain open to assist with urgent or emergent dermatological needs.

To learn more, call 530-6511 or visit www.ccdermatology.com. The Comprehensive Center for Dermatology is located at 5607 Skytop Dr. in Lithia.

Sage Cleaners Offers On-Demand Dry Cleaning & Laundry Service

Sage Cleaners, Eastern Hillsborough’s largest dry cleaning and laundry business with 12 locations from Seffner to Apollo Beach, is now the area’s first on-demand dry cleaning and laundry service.

Customers can download Sage’s app and select a pickup and delivery day.

Representatives will come by and pick up and return items in as little as 48 hours.

“We are waiving all fees associated with the service through at least April 30 to encourage anyone with interest in social distancing and minimizing the COVID-19 spread to give us a try,” said Owner and CEO Cohen Wills. “We will pick it up on your porch and leave it hanging on a clothes hanger on your door on delivery so that you won’t have to interact with our drivers at all if you prefer to practice social distancing.”

Visit www.sagecleaners.com to learn more.

Rolling Pin Suspends Classes, Offers Gift Cards And Curbside Delivery

For the health and safety of customers and employees, the Rolling Pin Cooking Emporium recently suspended cooking classes and events.

However, for as long as possible, the retail store will remain open and orders can be placed over the phone and will be brought to the curbside.

Gift certificates for the store and for future classes can be purchases at www.rollingpinonline.

To learn more, call 653-2418 or email dwest@rollingpinonline.com.

Grade A Spanish Tutors Goes Virtual

Looking for some help with learning Spanish while school is virtual? The employees of Grade A Spanish Tutors can lend a hand.

The new business is offering virtual classes for children and adults struggling to learn the language. According to Owner Kevin Kemp, a Lithia resident, the business’ tutor has more than 40 years of teaching and tutoring experience.

To learn more, call 763-5435 or visit www.GradeASpanishTutors.com.

By Kate Quesada Summerfield Crossings Golf Club Hosts Food Trucks In response to everyone being at home, Summerfield Crossings Golf Club thought it would be easier and safer to bring the food to residents.

Every Friday from 4:30-8:30 p.m., the club will have two food trucks plus a bar to order from. All orders must be placed ahead online, including drinks.

Visit Summerfield Crossings’ Facebook page for weekly trucks and more information.

Little Greek Starts Home Delivery

Delicious Greek food is now just a click away. Residents can now order from Little Greek online at https://littlegreekfreshgrill.com/ or by calling 5708162, but delivery will be offered in a limited area. Call to find out more.

No-Cost HR Advice

My HR Advisor invites small business owners impacted by the coronavirus to reach out to speak with an HR advisor at no cost. HR advisors are able to assist with answering general HRrelated questions or help point you in the right direction. It is here to help. Sign up for a basic free member account at www.myhradvisor.com to get started or submit a contact request form. My HR Advisor will get back to you to assist in any way it can.

Hypnotic Engagements Reduces Stress

Hypnotic Engagements wants to help residents reduce stress by engaging their minds.The company is offering a free session for anyone with the coronavirus. Hypnosis is offered for people dealing with cancer, pain, dementia, migraines and more. To learn more, call Daniel at 248-941-4246 or visit www.HypnoticEngagements.com.

Gecko Floor Care

If you have asthma, bad allergies or just want to make sure your house is as clean as possible, Gecko Floor Care can help. Service technicians take precautions that include wearing masks, gloves and sanitizing equipment after every job.

Vvisit geckofloorcare.com or call Dennis Napoli at 924-7344.

Rae’s Accounting Can Explain Tax Changes

Rae’s Accounting in Apollo Beach has all the information you need to deal with the IRS filing, payment delays and tax credits due to coronavirus concerns.

With a lot of misinformation out there, the staff at Rae’s Accounting is keeping up to date and can help with all tax questions from who needs to file when to who is eligible for tax credits and payments.

To learn more, contact Rae’s Accounting at 540-1040, email Robin@RaesAccounting.com or visit www.raesaccounting.com. Rae’s Accounting is located at 400 Frandorson Cir., Ste. 103 in Apollo Beach.

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Page 18

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 15, Issue 5

Find Financial Help Via Hillsborough County Extension Service’s Online Resources

River Hills Members Support Local Restaurants To Provide Front Line Workers With Meals

In this difficult time of ours, people still need to manage their money, so Hillsborough County Extension Service (HCES) is offering a helping hand from a safe distance through several online resources.

HCES is providing a free tax preparation assistance webinar through Wednesday, July 15 for Hillsborough County residents who can connect via web meetings. During the webinar, tax filers will be given access to tax filing software and will receive oneon-one assistance from IRS-trained and certified volunteers.

Appointments are required in advance and can be made for TuesdayFriday from 9 a.m. to 12 Noon and 1 to 4 p.m.

“We will do our best to offer as much one-on-one assistance as possible.

Since demand may exceed our capacity, we are also offering free access to this tax prep software,” said Joaquin Larrauri, personal finance program assistant in Hillsborough County and a certified IRS tax volunteer, on the HCES blog.

On Wednesday, May 20 from 1111:30 a.m., HCES will host its UF/IFAS FCS Nutrition & Finance Hump Day Kahoot Challenge meeting live on Zoom for a nutrition and personal finance fun facts competition with prizes for the top three scores.

Register in advance at https://ufl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMpf -yprjgoGNGMaWe0TlDvd_8w0WRssNk6 (Family & Consumer Sciences faculty are welcome to attend and introduce themselves, but they are not eligible to participate or win prizes).

Starting on Wednesday, May 27, take part in its live webinar, Managing Money in Uncertain Times, from 12 Noon-1:00 p.m. The classes will discuss prioritizing expenses, coronavirus federal economic assistance policies and local community resources.

Register at https://attendee.gototraining.com/r/6879599581726345730.

On Wednesdays, June 3, 10, 17 and 24, join the four-part webinar series, Developing Your Financial Plan, which will provide tools to help achieve financial goals, including: analyzing your situation and establishing goals, cash flow management, debt management as well as saving and investing for future goals.

Register at https://attendee.gototraining.com/r/4418533018461509378.

“The best Landing, Sunflower part of the deliverGrill and Café Cuba ies is seeing their to finance its prepaeyes light up ration of the meals. because we know Although it was they are smiling in possible for gratitude and Sawgrass Grill to thanks for thinkprepare all the ing of them.” Bob meals and retain the Swezey, general funds in its club, that manager of River was not the spirit of Hills Country Club its efforts. Aware that (RHCC) in survival of many Valrico, said this small eating estabMasked hospital staff are recognized for about hundreds lishments frequented all they do by donated meals from RHCC and local restaurants. of mask-wearing

by RHCC memberhealthcare and hospital staff as they ship is in jeopardy due to COVID-19, receive meals delivered to them from a RHCC reached out to include them. generous local initiative.

Swezey explained, “We contact a After reading an article discussing restaurant and buy $500 worth of meals the intensified personal and professional from them, and then we deliver with pressures on healthcare-connected $500 worth of meals on behalf of the workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, club at RHCC and the restaurant.”

Swezey wanted to do something for Presently, Brandon Regional those in the community who are on the Hospital and Tampa General front lines in this war. That ‘something’ Hospital/Brandon Healthplex receive became a collaboration with the memdeliveries. Ten deliveries a day on 10 bership at RHCC: preparation of meals days each month means 100 heroes on

by RHCC Sawgrass Grill and local the home front will receive a delicious restaurants. meal on those days. Swezey said if Swezey said, “We are blessed donations increased, more meals and because our membership has funded additional locations can be added to this effort 100 percent. These donations support the nurses, doctors, administraare used to prepare meals by both our tion, engineering, sanitation and all club and selected restaurants.” Of the departments that risk their lives to supover $9,000 in donation commitments port us. Swezey welcomes all surroundreceived so far, 50 percent of those ing residents who want to donate toward funds go to meals prepared by meals to contact Margie Martin at 653Sawgrass Grill and 50 percent is shared 1554 or with family-owned restaurants like The mmartin@riverhillscountryclub.com.

By Taylor Wells

HCES has also recorded several webinars that may be useful to local residents (registration is required to view them). In the Understanding Federal Income Taxes Series, there are three recordings: Recording session one, Tax Rates, at https://attendee.gototraining.com/878nx/recording/7281783340547151106.

Recording session two, Tax Credits & Deductions, at https://attendee.gototraining.com/878n x/recording/1347536566664921858.

Recording session three, Free Tax Prep Resources, at https://attendee.gototraining.com/878n x/recording/1680766655361130754.

Another recorded webinar, CARES Act: Economic Assistance for Individuals—offered by the University of Florida IFAS Extension in partnership with the Financial Planning Association of Florida—includes educational discussions regarding stimulus payments, retirement plan changes, student loans and more.

Visit https://attendee.gototraining.com/878n x/recording/749483606693952769.

Many other helpful resources are also available, such as its free online Building Financial Stability class, an Estate Planning video series and checklist along with a Personal Finance Newsletter subscription that will update you with those newsletters, information about upcoming webinars and classes as well as free tax preparation information.

To find these resources and more, visit http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/work-and-life/personal-finance/.

With the newsletter subscription you will also automatically receive the ‘Guide to 10 Essential Online Personal Finance Tools’ article.

“The idea is to provide researchbased education, non-biased education, to residents to help them make their lives better and make their communities better,” said Lisa Leslie, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension agent in Hillsborough County.

For more information, contact Denise Kantak at 744-5519, ext.

54141 or Kantakd@HCFLGov.net.

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Page 19

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

BSAC Encourages Stronger Water Safety Message As Summer Approaches

Staff Report

day. Parents working from home can easily become distracted and forget to lock a door leading outside, and children are restless and love to explore.

This combination can lead to a higher risk factor for children who don’t know how to swim, as bodies of water and pools are everywhere in Florida.

Phase one of businesses reopening made it possible for BSAC is encouraging parents to take extra water safety facilities like BSAC to measures this summer as children spend more time at home reopen and offer swim and near water during quarantine precautions. lessons to the public.

“Drowning is quick and silent. A Concerned parents have responded child can drown in less than one favorably to BSAC’s swimming prominute in as little as 1 inch of water. gram, which resumed on May 11 and There is usually no warning, such as began enrolling their children 3 years screams or splashing,” according to old and up.

Drowning Prevention Foundation’s “One of the things I like about our website, drowningpreventionfoundaprogram is we are not just educating tion.com. the children, but we are educating the The BSAC Learn to Swim parents on how to keep their children Program is the most comprehensive safe, not just in the water but out of swim lesson program in the area. It the water and around the water,” said offers a progressive group lesson proAquatic Director Theresa Hickie. For gram as well as private lessons for more information on swim lessons at both children and adults, parent/tot BSAC, visit www.mybsac.org. classes and adaptive swim lessons.

BSAC also provides information Hillsborough County is ranked as on the measures it is taking to address one of the highest in the state for the COVID-19 situation while children drownings of children 3 to 5 years old, are in its care.

Here’s a link to a video and these numbers are sure to rise of what to expect: https://youtu.be/awith families self-isolating and more drlk-fNeI. children staying at home during the

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Page 20

Volume 15, Issue 5

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Local Resident Loves Being A Hotdogger During Year Of Driving Wienermobile

Buy A Steer For Quality Beef In Bulk From Local Farm Wilkinson Cattle Co.

Chinese philosopher types of interviews,” Confucius once said, Peterson said. “The “Choose a job you love and Wienermobile oftentimes you will never have to work sets up outside of groa day in your life.” cery stores and surprises FishHawk resident Tyler shoppers with a rare Peterson would agree with chance to see a giant Confucius because he has drivable hotdog. We also the fun and very cool job of love participating in fairs, being a hotdogger for Oscar festivals and local Mayer, and one of his job parades.” perks is that he gets to Wherever Peterson drive their goes in the Wienermobile.

Wienermobile, “I love being he loves the goofy and makreaction he ing people gets from smile, so when I people he saw that they passes on the were looking for road while hotdoggers to driving or drive the when the Wienermobile, I Tyler Peterson grew up in the FishHawk area and Wienermobile graduated from the University of Florida with a jumped at the Master of Science in management this past spring. is parked at opportunity,” Peterson said. “I applied an event. “Everyone goes crazy when my last semester of grad school and they see a giant, 27-foot-long hotdog on was fortunate enough to have ‘cut the wheels,” Peterson said. “We get lots of mustard.’ The hotdogger position is cars honking their horns, waves and extremely competitive with thousands of smiles. How can you not be excited to people screened each year and only 12 see the Wienermobile?” people selected. You really have to If you ask Peterson what he likes have an appetite for adventure and a most about being a hotdogger and drivpassion for people in order to get the ing the Wienermobile, he will tell you it’s job.” the magic he creates while working. “I As a professional hotdogger, definitely love the fact that I get to make Peterson is responsible for driving the magic every day and spread smiles all Wienermobile all across the country and across the country,” Peterson said. “It is setting up fun events. my absolute favorite part of the job.”

“I also act as a brand spokesperson Being a hotdogger does have its privion behalf of Oscar Mayer in all different leges.

Anyone wanting from. to get their beef in “I’m very much bulk and help out about the humane life local businesses in of these animals as this trying time of well as the processquarantine should ing. From the take a look at moment they’re in my Wilkinson Cattle Co., hands and then the which sells live steers moment they’re that are processed handed off to the for high-quality beef processor, I want after the purchase. them to be handled The farm prides in the correct way,” A calf at Wilkinson Cattle Co. itself on raising its said Charlotte cattle humanely and naturally as well as Wilkinson. providing buyers with custom purchases, She cares a lot for her animals, so meaning they can purchase a steer in she earned a Beef Quality Assurance cerportions as small as a quarter and decide tification and took classes at the how their portions are processed.

University of Florida, Institute of Food and Wilkinson Cattle Co.’s standards of Agricultural Sciences to ensure that she’s steer readiness and raising are such that, doing everything she can to raise them to if, for instance, a steer hasn’t reached its the best of her ability. It’s important to her weight goal, the farm will put that steer on that the steers are happy, healthy and hold until it’s ready. All the steers are naturally raised, so things like growth horraised at its farm and most of the steers mones aren’t used. are born there, so it knows everything As steers need time to grow to the about them. farm’s standards, customers must contact All that combined means quality beef the farm and get their names on steers is assured and a priority. Also, those purahead of time. The prices for a quarter of chasing a steer will not see a picture of a steer and half of one depend on the that steer, since many don’t want to. Of weight of it and includes processing the course, people are welcome to visit the steer, so contact Wilkinson Cattle Co. to farm, see the animals and learn about the find out how much your steer portion and whole process. processing will cost.

What’s more, Wilkinson Cattle Co. is For more information, see updates based in Plant City and it processes its and to get your name on a steer to fill steers through a local, USDA-inspected your freezer, contact Wilkinson Cattle Co. butcher, so the entire operation is local, through its Facebook page at customers will be helping two businesses facebook.com/Wilkinson-Cattle-Coand they’ll know where the beef comes 102938997956253.

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Page 21

Graduation Supplies To Help You Celebrate

Rob Angilella is excited to let you know that graduation supplies are in and on the shelves at his store, Discount Party Supply, and customized high school supplies should be in soon. He is not going to let COVID-19 put a damper on your festivities. Discount Party Supply is a family-owned and operated wedding and party supply superstore. Its goal is to provide the best customer service and to engage with each and every one of its customers to contribute a little more happiness on their special day and to make it perfect just the way they want it. All this and it also has the lowest prices in town for all your party supply needs. Whether it’s a graduation, a child’s birthday party, a baby shower or an adult’s milestone birthday, it will put a smile on your face with their beautifully arranged centerpieces, bouquets and variety of balloons.

Discount Party Supply is in Bloomingdale, and its temporary store hours are Thursday-Saturday, 10 a.m.6 p.m. Visit its website, www.discountedpartysupply.com, or facebook.com/DiscountCityTampa/ to find out more. Call 513-4860.

At Last Chiropractic Celebrates Its One-Year Anniversary

The At Last chiropractic office in Lithia has just celebrated its one-year anniversary. It believes that the majority of people who are suffering from a disease, illness or chronic pain are not satisfied with simple, short-term fixes. Its mission is to stay committed to the health of the community through compassion, honesty, education and neurological-based chiropractic care.

For more information, visit its website, www.atlastchiropractic.com.

Let Couture Designs Studio Update Your Kitchen Cabinets

Are you thinking about painting your cabinets throughout the house to avoid the overwhelming cost of cabinet replacement? You owe it to yourself to text or message Mike at Couture

woman had fallen in her home and did not want to call an ambulance until she knew her furry friends were taken care of. When they received the call, Owners Angie Pickren and Kendall Duncan immediately knew that they had to help and lodge the woman’s two dogs for however long it was needed.

Canine Cabana is located at 9708 Carr Rd. in Riverview and is still Discount Party Supply located near Volunteer of the Year open for doggy daycare. You can Stein & Vine on Bloomingdale has At Last Chiropractic office celAward winner Desh email it at info@caninacabana.biz or ebrating its first anniversary. all your graduation needs.

Bagley. call them at 672-9663. They are curDesigns Studio. “We have they rently open Monday-Friday worked hard to perfect this process. If feel safe in the water from 6:30a.m.-6:30 p.m. your cabinets are in good condition, and this can lead to this is an excellent alternative. We accidents.

Local Business Owner want to give you stunning cabinets at Those devices Wins Volunteer Of The an affordable price using a proven keep children vertical Year Award Benjamin Moore product that will in the water, children Desh Bagley, last,” said Mike. need to practice the TechPlayzone’s founder Couture Designs Studio is located correct swimming and owner, was recently recognized as in the Erindale Plaza at 3644 Lithia position, which is horizontal. the 2020 Volunteer of the Year for Pinecrest Rd. and is available to you Those devices restrict arm moveFIRST® LEGO® League internationalby appointment. Here, you can mix ment, which prevents children from ly. The league guides youth through and match wall colors with cabinet colpracticing and learning to swim.

STEM learning and exploration at an ors to find your perfect color combinaDavis explains more on this topic early age. From Discover, to Explore, tion, then take home actual cabinet in a video at yourswimbuddy.com/safeand then to Challenge, students will doors in different colty-alert. understand the basics of STEM and ors. “We believe this should be a fun, stressSalt Athletics Is Coming apply their skills in an exciting competition while building habits of learning, free process, and To The Salt Grotto confidence and teamwork skills along Couture Designs The Salt Grotto is the way. strives to make it just pleased to announce the TechPlayzone is a science and that.” Call Mike at 244addition of Salt Athletics to technology program that began in 0787 and view his their wellness center. For 2005. To find out more, Facebook page, many years The visit its website, www.techCouture Designs Salt Grotto has playzone.com. @paintyourcabinets. been offering their clients an amazing wellness center feaCreative Junk Therapy Local Swim School Offers turing halo therapy (dry salt Creative Junk Therapy Water Safety Tips inhalation), and Sheila Alba, is a startup resource cenLocated in Valrico, manager of The Salt Grotto, ter located at 10236 Angelfish Swim School offers said, “We are so excited to Fisher Ave. in Tampa, and private and semi-private lesbe adding Salt Athletics to its mission is to provide sons for all ages in a fun, our wellness services; it adds resources for enrichment through art safe and family-friendly envia dynamic, new, scientific wellness and creation using salvaged materials. ronment. With the recent platform for our customers.” In each Owner Karen Koseck said, “Our goal spike in drownings this year, Angelfish session, users will receive a combinais to encourage artistic expression for Swim School is warning parents of the tion of light therapy and salt inhalation future generations while benefitting our dangers when using arm floats and therapy known to benefit several conenvironment by keeping reusable other flotation devices that restrict arm ditions. items from our landfills.” Creative Junk movement. Marcia Davis, owner of Visit www.thesaltgrotto.com for Therapy offers gently used items at Angelfish Swim School, said that parmore information. reasonable costs, creative workshops, ents need to know all the following makerspaces as well as a space for dangers and risks: Canine Cabana Helps Out Local studios, meetings or events.

Those devices give children and Resident To learn more, view its Facebook parents a false sense of security. A Recently, Canine Cabana had a page, Creative Junk Therapy, or call young child does not fully understand call to action for helping one of its 324-9777. that the flotation device is the reason Riverview community customers. A

May 2020

Page 23

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Missy’s Ink Owner Has Eye For Making Permanent Makeup Look Natural

By Libby Hopkins

Author Mark Twain Health Institute, Duncan has once said, “Why not go advanced in other areas of out on a limb? That’s permanent makeup. “I’ve where the fruit is.” attended advanced classes Missy Duncan of in eyeliner, brows, lip tinting Brandon would agree and most recently areola pigwith Twain, as she mentation,” Duncan said. “I decided to go out on a believe that continuing my limb and start a new education makes me better business after she and confident in my profesretired from photograsion.” phy.

Areola pigmentation “I am a retired allows women, who have photographer of been affected by breast canalmost 20 years,” cer to have a three-dimenDuncan said. “God sional areola and nipple creblessed me with a talated. Duncan calls this servMissy Duncan, owner of ent that grew into a Missy’s Ink, recently became ice ”Pink, by Missy’s Ink.” successful business. In “Creating beautiful, certified in areola pigmentation.

November of 2016, my three-dimensional areolas oldest daughter got married and my and nipples for client’s who have had a youngest daughter went to college. This mastectomy, breast augmentation or left me and my sweet husband of over want to renew the pigmentation of faded 25 years some time to rethink our life. I areola and nipples has been a tremendecided that although God had blessed dous blessing to me,” Duncan said. me so much, I was ready for a change. I “Replacing the areola and nipple can took a leap of faith and set out for a new restore a woman’s self-esteem. I can crebeginning with permanent makeup.” ate the look of a three-dimensional nipple After much prayer and courage, on a completely flat surface.”

Duncan went back to school to learn all Duncan’s goal is learn all she can she could about permanent makeup. about permanent makeup. “My goal for “Yes, at 44-years-old, I did it,” the future is to continue to learn, grow Duncan said. “I went to school at the and gain more confidence,” Duncan said.

Beauty and Health Institute in Tampa.

“Learning creates knowledge and knowlThere, I got my certification to perform edge creates confidence.” permanent makeup. I chose this school To learn more about Missy’s Ink and because they were the only school in the services she offers, visit her website Florida that teaches all three methods of at www.missysink.com or call 659-0648. permanent makeup application.”

Missy’s Ink is located at 1104 N. Parsons Since attending the Beauty and Ave., Ste. B in Brandon.

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6/22/2020

6/22/2020