Osprey Observer Brandon December 2020

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December 2020 Volume 15, Issue 12 Ph: 657-2418 1 8

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P U B L I S H I N G

Brandon Biz Pros Networking Group Donates Funds To Family Promise

By Libby Hopkins

A group of Greater Brandon local residents area. The goal helped their busiwas to empower nesses and a homeless familocal charity last lies to obtain month. affordable housBrandon Biz ing and a state of Pros, a self-govlasting independerned leads reference. To date, it ral group, strives has helped over to provide a col35 families attain lective sales their goal of susBrandon Biz Pros is a self-governed leads referral group. It strives to provide a collective tainable housing. team for their team for its members where they can learn members where sales Early in from, support and help each other grow. It they can learn 2017, its board recently donated $750 to local charity, Family Promise of Hillsborough County. from, support of directors and help each other made a decision to grow. change its name to “Brandon Biz Pros Family Promise of was born out of a small Hillsborough County group of Brandon as it more accurately Chamber members that encompassed the got together and started area it serves. The the group in March of 2019,” said organization has been able to assist Brandon Biz Pro Chairperson David homeless families from all of Hillsborough Thornton. “We collect dues to cover County as well as partner with the county expenses but rarely spend what we colon services it offers to its guests. lect. Our leftover money is donated to Every year, Brandon Biz Pros invites local causes or charities.” local charities to come pitch their groups The local charity that recently for donations, and Family Promise of received $750 from the group was Family Hillsborough County has been a regular Promise of Hillsborough County. attendee. “Family Promise has consis“Edwina Reddick of Family Promise tently answered the call,” Thornton said. and I both served as ambassadors of the “With many people losing their jobs and Brandon Chamber together,” Thornton having their rent deferred, we felt that said. “We donated $300 for her organizaFamily Promise needed all the help they tion and we also gave her a paid memcould get. While we could only offer $750 bership. Our group also donated another this year, many of us wished it were $300, which went to Mark Oliver of more.”

Specially Fit.” Brandon Biz Pros meets weekly Family Promise of Greater Brandon every Friday morning online from 8:45-10 was incorporated in 2010 as an affiliate of a.m. If you are interested in joining the Family Promise. The group opened the group, contact Thornton doors of a day center in 2014 to serve at dthornton@abcnetfl.com to get added homeless children and their families in the to the email contact list.

P O S I T I V E

See full story on Page 7

C O M M U N I T Y

N E W S

The Undy Run Goes Virtual For Colon Cancer

By Libby Hopkins

In January Tampa Walk 2017 at the age of swag bags.

46, Tara Polk of “Just a Brandon was handful of voldiagnosed with unteers will stage IV rectal be on-site cancer that had wearing spread to her liver. masks, social After two major distancing, Tara Polk of Brandon is currently the event organiz- regularly surgeries and er for the Colorectal Cancer Alliance’s Undy countless rounds using hand Run/Walk to End Colon Cancer. of chemotherapy, sanitizer, she is now being closely monitored while cheering for participants driving through blood work and scans. through in their cars and placing the swag Polk became aware of the Colorectal bags in the trunks of cars to stay safely Cancer Alliance through her colorectal distanced,” Polk said. “Each swag bag surgeon, Dr. Jorge Marcet. Wanting to will include a pair of boxers, goodies from help in any way possible, Polk was honsponsors and educational material on colored to give the Survivor Speech at the orectal cancer and the alliance. All col2019 Undy Run To End Colorectal orectal cancer patients and survivors will Cancer event and in early 2020 she receive their 2020 Survivor Medal and served as one of the event’s coordinators. anyone who hits fundraising levels of “The Colorectal Cancer Alliance $100 and above will receive their exists to end this disease in our lifetime, fundraising items, such as the walkand the pandemic has created a new branded pop socket, shoulder sling bag need and numerous challenges that are and thermal water bottle.” critical to address for the colorectal canTo learn more about the Colorectal cer community,” Polk said. “The alliance Cancer Alliance’s Undy Run/Walk to End is addressing those challenges within our Colon Cancer or to participate in the pillars to screen, care and cure.” event, visit To support the Colorectal Cancer www.impact.ccalliance.org/event/2021Alliance’s programs to screen, care and tampa-walk-to-end-colon-cancer. cure colorectal cancer, the Undy Run/Walk to End Colon Cancer is continuing to raise funds and spread awareness, even if not in the traditional way.

“To keep the community safe, we have pivoted the Tampa Walk to End Colon Cancer to be virtual with a fun, socially distanced, drive-through activation,” Polk said. “We are encouraging people to register online for free at ccalliance.org/TampaWalk, fundraise and spread awareness leading up to the Tampa Walk, but then walk on February 27 in their own neighborhoods with family 2 or close friends before joining the drivethrough victory lap celebration, our safe onsite activation.”

NEW PRESIDENT OF HCC..................PG 4 The victory lap will be from 10 a.m.12 Noon on Saturday, February 27, 2021 ADVENT HEALTH E.R.........................PG 7 and participants can trade their walking BRANDON AUTO AWARD.................PG 9 shoes for a decorated car to drive through to celebrate and pick up their

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Brandon resident Rob Kennedy’s name is etched on the most famous trophy in sports, the Stanley Cup. The assistant equipment manager for the Tampa Bay Lightning was a part of the 2020 championship team. One of his stops included Bullfrog Creek Brewery in Valrico. See full story on Page 12.

12/31/2020

Page 2

Volume 15, Issue 12

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Dewsbury Of Mann Middle School Named HEF Teacher Of The Year Finalist

DAR Celebrates Hope For Her Founder With Annual Community Service Award

Mann Middle said the honor is well School’s media deserved. “She works center got a little not only with teachers rowdier when the but parents and stuSurprise Patrol dents as well,” she made up of represaid. sentatives from Principal Dante Hillsborough Jones said Dewsbury’s Education “rock star” status is no Foundation (HEF), The Surprise Patrol visited Mann Middle longer a secret. “She Hillsborough School to recognize Nicci Dewsbury as a builds lifelong lovers of Hillsborough Education Foundation’s County Public literacy every day,” he 2021 Teacher of the Year finalist.

Schools, presentsaid. ing sponsor Suncoast Credit Union, Each day, more than 24,000 teachCaspers Company McDonald’s ers and staff in Hillsborough County make Restaurants and Amscot, walked in with a difference in students’ lives. More than cowbells ringing earlier this month.

200 schools nominated educators for the The group was there to reveal that award. The winners will be named on the school’s media specialist, Nicolette January 21, 2021 at HEF’s 2021 ‘Nicci’ Dewsbury, is one of five finalists for Excellence in Education Awards. The HEF’s Excellence in Education Awards. theme for the virtual event is Mask-aDewsbury, who has been a media rade. specialist for 12 years—four years at In addition to Dewsbury, finalists Jennings Middle and eight years at include Audra Kondash (kindergarten Mann—wasn’t expecting the visitors. “I teacher at Witter Elementary), Katie was very surprised and a little overStallings (second grade teacher at whelmed at being named a finalist,” she MacFarlane Park Elementary), Laura said.

Meehan (music specialist at Caminiti Dewsbury said it’s a group effort, the Exceptional Center) and Adetola entire Mann staff, that makes excellence Shokunbi (third grade teacher at Belmont possible. “I’ve been very lucky in my Elementary). career to be surrounded by an amazing Win or lose, Dewsbury is just happy team,” she said. to be a finalist. “I’m happy to be recogReading Resource Teacher Nina nized for my contribution to the work we Scaglione has worked with Dewsbury for do,” she said. “We as a staff work togethmore than 10 years, implementing proer to make students achieve greater sucgrams that encourage literacy, from family cess.” nights and other activities during the For more information about HEF’s school year to making sure students have Excellence in Education Awards, visit books to read in the summer. Scaglione www.EducationFoundation.com.

Earlier this lies have had month, the Alafia their lives River Chapter of the restored since National Society Hope for Her Daughters of the opened their American doors.

Revolution (DAR), Alafia River presented the Chapter DAR group’s annual Community Community Service Service Award to Cheryl Chairman Hicks, founder and Glenda Thurow Community Service Award, pictured left to executive director awarded the right: Cathleen LaVigne, chapter regent; of Hope for Her. Cecilia Murray, treasurer; Cheryl Hicks founder DAR Hope for Her, a and executive director of Hope for Her; Glenda Community local nonprofit, sup- Thurow, Community Service Award chairman; Service Award and Jen Gerken, Women’s Issues chairman. ports women expe- (Masks were worn during the presentation and pin and a certifiriencing crisis and cate to Hicks for only removed briefly for the photo.) trauma by providing her service to essentials such as housing, the community. Each childcare, food, clothing and year, this committee more to address the needs searches for outstanding of these women and their community members to children. Hope for Her recognize and thank for works one-on-one with their service to our local women to restore their concommunity. fidence and self-worth by identifying DAR is a nonprofit, nonpolitical, volneeds, creating plans to address them unteer women’s service organization with and staying with the families for as long over 185,000 members in 3,000 chapters as needed. across the world. Any woman age 18 Cheryl Hicks opened this important years and older—regardless of race, relicenter for women in 2003. In its very first gion or ethnic background—who can year, Hope for Her and the dedicated prove her lineal descent from patriots of team of volunteers assisted 100 women the American Revolution is eligible to join and their families who had nowhere else the DAR. to turn. Last year, over 300 women found If you are interested in learning more employment through its program, 1,200 about the Alafia River Chapter of the women received one-on-one support and National Society Daughters of the the center received over 3,600 calls for American Revolution, help and support. More than 45,000 fami- email ARCRegistrar201921@gmail.com.

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Page 4

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 15, Issue 12

Assisted Living Residents Prepare Hundreds Of Holiday Cards For The Troops

New President Of Hillsborough Community College Brandon Campus Selected

Earlier this month, with the holiday season in full swing, residents at The Bridges Assisted Living Community were eager to send Residents at The Bridges, located off Bloomingdale Ave., recently sent 438 cards to troops overseas. some collected and sent 1,124 cards,” reported cheer to troops serving in the military Haytasingh. overseas.

When the pandemic struck, students, The Bridges Activities Director churches, women’s groups and individuColeen Mercilliott knew exactly how to get als in the community mailed hundreds of this done. With stacks of Christmas cards letters and cards to residents at The that had been donated over the years, Bridges.

Mercilliott scheduled several “card writing “We were overwhelmed with the sessions” for residents to attend. Over the kindness of people in our community who course of several days, residents were thoughtfully sent notes of support to our busy writing and signing cards. residents,” stated Mercilliott. “When resiKnowing that Mission BBQ in dents were given the opportunity to show Brandon collected and sent holiday cards kindness and support to our troops, they to the military overseas, Mercilliott conwere thrilled to give back and send some tacted Crystal Haytasingh, community cheer to those serving our country.” ambassador at Mission BBQ. A partnerThe Bridges Retirement Community ship was soon formed as Haytasingh in Riverview is dedicated to providing received 438 Christmas cards prepared healthcare and housing for the elderly. by residents at The Bridges.

The Bridges features assisted living and According to Haytasingh, Mission memory care residences with all ameniBBQ collects and sends hundreds of ties on a beautiful campus off of cards to Heartillery Group, a nonprofit Bloomingdale Ave. organization whose mission is to show To learn more about The Bridges, support, love and gratitude to U.S. troops located at 11202 Dewhurst Dr., call 413overseas in simple ways (cards and care 8900 or visit www.bridgesretirement.com. packages). “Thus far this year, we have

Dr. Deborah Kish demic dean and graduate Johansen has been and undergraduate faculselected to join ty. She also has legal and Hillsborough Community government experience, College (HCC) as the having served in positions Brandon Campus presiof corporate and governdent. A committee comment legal counsel. prised of HCC faculty, Noted as a compasstaff, administrators and sionate and inspiring community representateam leader, Dr. Kish tives conducted a nationJohansen plans to bring a wide search for qualified tremendous passion for candidates, narrowing student success to both down the list through sevthe college and the eral rounds of interviews and open campus forums Dr. Deborah Kish Johansen for the final four candiis the next HCC Brandon Campus president. dates. HCC President Dr. Ken Atwater made the final selection, Brandon which was approved by the district board communiof trustees at its December 9 meeting. ty.

“Along with the positive campus feed“It is a back and her impeccable references, Dr. profound honor to be selected to Kish Johansen impressed me with her serve as the next president of the desire to foster a collaborative environBrandon Campus and join Hillsborough ment of learning and growth sustained by Community College,” said Dr. Kish assessment, support and inquiry at the Johansen. “The Brandon Campus serves Brandon Campus,” Dr. Atwater said. “I am as a vital educational and economic conconfident that her energy and enthusiasm duit for individuals and the Greater Tampa for the students, faculty and staff at the Bay area. I am eager to immerse myself campus will bring forth a period of renew- in the Brandon area and continue to build al and put the campus on a positive traan outstanding educational opportunity to jectory forward.” the growing community.”

With more than two decades in comHillsborough Community College bined higher education administration and serves more than 47,000 students annufaculty experience, Dr. Kish Johansen’s ally at its five campuses located throughextensive professional background out Tampa Bay. The college is accredited includes holding the positions of vice by the Southern Association of Colleges president of academic affairs, chief acaand Schools Commission on Colleges. demic officer, chief operating officer, acaFor more information, visit hccfl.edu.

Staff Report

Staff Report

December 2020

Page 5

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Hillsborough County Developing A Plan For Sustainability

By Brad Stager

Protecting natuof life. When communiral resources while ty members get promoting an active involved, we can creand enjoyable ate a shared vision lifestyle for people is with realistic goals and a sustainability balactions.” ancing act that Hillsborough becomes a formidaCounty is using a varible task when ety of methods to applied to an area as engage the public in large as Hillsborough examining issues relatCounty—1,266 ed to energy and water How residential and commercial develsquare miles—that opment is balanced against preserving usage, transportation natural resources and green spaces, needs and ways to proalso includes a diverse mix of urban, such as this spot on Springvale Ave. in mote a healthy quality Bloomingdale, is a concern that rural and suburban Hillsborough County is addressing in of life for residents. its sustainability action plan. communities within A series of open its borders. house webinars were held in November In order to assess the interests and and an online survey was available to priorities of residents and business ownresidents until December 1. ers when it comes to sustainability-related People could also hold guided diamatters, Hillsborough County is asking for logue sessions with friends, neighbors their ideas in creating a community susand family members to generate comtainability action plan that will help shape ments and ideas for consideration by policies and determine allocation of action plan developers. For these, the resources by the county. county provided sustainability-related According to Sheila McNamara, susinformation and instructions for the sestainability manager for Hillsborough sions which could have been held in-perCounty, input from residents is needed to son or online. Feedback from the comensure the area continues to be an munity-based dialogue sessions was attractive place to live. accepted until December 13. When com“It takes a community to sustain a pleted, the community sustainability community and Hillsborough County action plan was presented to the Board of wants to know what’s important to our County Commissioners so it had access residents and business owners,” she to the information and considered it as said. policies were developed.

“Many people love living and working For more information, please visit the in Hillsborough and have great ideas on Sustainability & Green webpage at hillsways to protect our resources and quality boroughcounty.org.

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Page 6

Volume 15, Issue 12

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

CUSTOM HAIR

Hillsborough Commissioners Seek Applications For Citizen Boards And Councils

For the hair you’ve always wanted!

Staff Report

Hillsborough County Commissioners are seeking residents to serve on several county citizen advisory boards and councils.

Boards with openings include the Planning Commission, Affordable Housing Advisory Board, Child Care Licensing Hearing Board, Code Enforcement Board, County Internal Audi Committee, Cultural Assets Commission, Historic Resources Review Board, Historical Advisory Council, Housing Finance Authority, Human Relations Board, Industrial Development Authority, Land Use Appeals Board and the Tourist Development Council.

Residents interested in seeking an appointment must reside in and be registered voters in Hillsborough County; some positions require that the resident live in the unincorporated area of the county.

These are voluntary positions and members serve without compensation.

Applicants may apply to more than one board, but they may only serve on one board at a time unless specifically approved by the BOCC. All applicants must submit a completed Questionnaire for County Appointments and a Standards of Conduct form.

Forms are available on the county’s website at: HCFLGov.net. Click on the ‘Government’ link at the top of the page, then click the ‘Boards and Committees’ link. The forms can be filled out and printed, then scanned and emailed, faxed or mailed.

All forms must be signed and dated, and all questions must be answered in entirety to be eligible.

Some positions require a background check, financial disclosure and an oath of office if chosen.

Applicants for some of the boards will only be considered if they have experience in certain fields. For example, the Code Enforcement Magistrate applicant must have experience in one of the following: law, code enforcement, construction and land use; water resource ordinances; burglar false alarm ordinances and land development program; or zoning signs and minimum standards ordinances. Consideration for membership shall be given to the following fields: an architect; a businessperson; an engineer; a general contractor; a subcontractor; and a realtor.

The application is due by the close of business on Thursday, January 7, 2021.

Appointments will be scheduled for a meeting of the Board of County Commissioners in January or February 2021.

Forms can be mailed to P.O. Box 1110, Tampa, FL 33601; faxed to 813239-3916; or emailed to finleyl@hillsboroughcounty.org.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, meetings may be held virtually via communications technology. Meeting dates and times are subject to change and the different boards meet on different schedules, some monthly and some quarterly.

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Page 7

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Offers Support To Local Families

By Libby Hopkins

One local support group is finding we had waited so long to have was not innovative ways to raise funds during the the son I was going to take home. I think I pandemic. cried for three months straight, it was like Families, Respect, Inspire, Educati I was grieving the loss of my baby, not on, Networking for Down Syndrome celebrating him. When we arrived home I and Special Needs had no idea what (F.R.I.E.N.D.S.) is a to do.” volunteer-based Foyt realized nonprofit that was she needed to founded in 2007 by become an advoparents of children cate for her son, with Down synand that is when drome. The group’s she joined motto is “I can and I F.R.I.E.N.D.S. will,” and President “It was run Ann Foyt is the drivby a small ing force behind this group of parFamilies, Respect, Inspire, motto. ents who got Education, Networking “I love helping together to lisfor Down Syndrome and Special Needs (F.R.I.E.N.D.S.) is a ten to a speaker and then new parents,” Foyt volunteer-based; non-profit. said. “We have a go out to dinner afterF.R.I.E.N.D.S. Parent Packet that we wards,” Foyt said. “The woman running assemble with resource information, was ready to hand the responsibility over brochures from other agencies and the to someone else and when I told her I book, Babies with Down Syndrome: a would take it over she handed me a box Parents’ Guide. We sent out over 150 of papers and told the others I was now packets this year to new families, to president.”

Brandon Hospital, St. Joseph’s Women’s, It wasn’t easy, but Foyt turned the litSt. Joseph’s Children’s, Tampa General tle nonprofit into a thriving organization and Mease Countryside. The hospitals that helps families who have children with distribute the packets to parents for us.”

Down syndrome.

Foyt has lived in the Brandon area “We have programs for our commufor more than 20 years and has been a nity with our monthly Baby Friends, adult nurse for 25 years. Her son, Zachary, dances, arts and crafts, family game night was born in 1998. and parent support group meetings in “We did not know he had Down synHillsborough and Pinellas,” Foyt said. drome until the doctor in the operating “With [the] pandemic, all of our programs room announced to the entire room, ‘Mr. stopped.” and Mrs. Foyt, your son has Down synTo learn more about F.R.I.E.N.D.S., drome.’ The room got extremely quiet; all visit www.fdswf.org or contact Foyt at you could hear was me crying. The son 245-2782.

AdventHealth Introduces InQuickER For Quick & Easy Online ER Scheduling AdventHealth has introduced an online scheduling tool, InQuickER, to create a more convenient experience for ER patients.

With it, you can book online and wait in the comfort and safety of your home.

Patients with non-life or limbthreatening emergencies can now reserve a treatment time online before arriving to the emergency room at AdventHealth Brandon ER, a hospital department of AdventHealth Tampa.

For non-life-threatening emergencies, visit GetInQuickER.com on your desktop computer or mobile device to see available appointment times. Once you find an available time that fits with your schedule, click to reserve the treatment time and complete a brief secure form with your information. You will immediately receive a confirmation with directions and details regarding your visit. At your arrival, a team of ER experts will be ready and waiting for you.

“I was very pleased with how smooth everything went. The staff were very pleasant and supportive of the online scheduling. I did not even know about this until I went to the

Staff Report

website to see how long the wait was,” said an AdventHealth InQuickER patient.

At the new AdventHealth Brandon ER, patients can expect its dedicated staff and experienced physicians to leap into action as quickly, compassionately and skillfully as possible. It’ll be there to give its patients the best possible emergency medical care—24 hours a day, every day of the year.

When you go to AdventHealth Brandon ER, you automatically have important benefits. It is part of AdventHealth’s connected network of care, which is the largest health system in Florida. This means you have access to all the services and specialty care offered at AdventHealth hospitals. With emergency care close to home, along with its greater system of skilled experts, you can be assured that you’ll have the care you need, when you need it.

The new freestanding, 24-hour AdventHealth Brandon ER opened earlier this year in February and offers full-service emergency care.

To learn more about InQuickER, visit GetInQuickER.com.

Thursday, December 24

Christmas Eve Services

5:00 PM - Family Service 10:30 PM - Seasonal Music Prelude 11:00 PM - Festive Eucharist (With Incense) Two beautiful Christmas Eve services to honor the birth of Jesus.

A variety of traditional seasonal music will be offered by our Music Department.

Holy Innocents Episcopal Church 604 N. Valrico Rd. Valrico 33594 http://hiepiscopal.org/

m

813-689-3130

Friday, December 25

Christmas Day Service 9:00 AM - Holy Eucharist

Page 8

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Physical Therapist Cosi Belloso Is Educating, Informing And Empowering Amputees

By Lily Belcher

Eighteen years ago, tions that should have physical therapist and been answered by their now Brandon resident clinicians.”

Cosi Belloso was She posted live assigned the amputee videos to establish credirotation at Jackson bility and form connecMemorial Hospital in tions with the members of Miami because she “was online support groups, the low man on the totem which she transferred to pole and got stuck with her own website and the amputee rotation that Physical therapist Cosi Belloso Facebook page. is the founder and host of Cosi nobody wanted.” During “The mission of my Talks, a weekly show featuring her rotation, she met her show is to educate, amputees and doctors to help members of the limb loss mentor, Paul Kleponis, inform and empower,” community. the senior physical therasaid Belloso. “There’s so pist at Jackson Memorial Hospital. much out there that people need to learn “[He] was just an amazing mentor when they become an amputee and it’s and he just taught me everything I know,” very overwhelming.”

Belloso said when explaining her introOn each weekly Cosi Talks episode, duction to amputee physical therapy. “It’s Belloso features different aspects of being kind of hard not to [become passionate an amputee, such as rehabilitation, medabout helping amputees] when you are ications or prosthetics. being mentored by someone who is so While many of her guests are from passionate about what they do.” her local community, Belloso has featured After working at Tampa General athletes, such as the first WWE amputee Hospital and Fusion HealthCare, Belloso wrestler, Zachary Gowen, and two-time opened her own practice, Palanca PT, world champion bilateral amputee drag and created Cosi Talks, a website dedimotorcycle racer Reggie Showers. cated to educating patients and careVeterans and bomb survivors have also givers on prosthetics and exercises for made appearances on Cosi Talks, includnew amputees. ing Sergeant First Class Daniel Metzdorf, Belloso first attracted an online audiwho was a member of the Golden ence to Cosi Talks three years ago, Knights and the first above-the-knee where she hosts live shows with doctors amputee to return to active duty with the and patients to discuss issues amputees 82nd Airborne Division. face. She recognized a need for a physiVisit cositalks.com or watch Belloso’s cal therapist specializing in amputee live show every Wednesday at 8:30 p.m. patients after visiting online support on her Facebook page. To contact groups on Facebook where “many Belloso, call 907-0430 or email amputees were asking very basic quescosi@cositalks.com.

M

Volume 15, Issue 12

December 2020

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 9

Management District Answers Water Questions And Offers Data Access

Automotive Recyclers Association Honors Brandon Auto Services Owner

Have you ever been features of the aquifer. interested in how much Staff collects geologic rain fell in your neighbordata from land surface to hood after a summer approximately 3,000 feet storm? Or how high the below using a coring rig water levels are at the and that data is collected lake where you launch from the core holes to your boat? The gain an understanding of Southwest Florida Water the aquifer’s characterisManagement District tics. Geologists study this (District) collects all that information and use it to data and more. And what construct wells to moniyou might not know is all tor each aquifer. District that data is easily availstaff also collect atmosable to the public. pheric data from rain Sandie Will is the Data District Data Collection Collection Bureau chief for the gauges and water level Southwest Florida Water Bureau Chief Sandie and water quality data Management District.

Will explained how data from groundwater and is collected and why it’s important. surface water sites, including lakes, Q: What types of data does the rivers, wells and springs.

District collect?

Q: How many data collection sites A: The District oversees, collects does the District monitor? and analyzes numerous data for longA: The District monitors water levels term monitoring trends and specific proj- at more than 1,600 well sites and more ects. Staff members collect data, includthan 800 surface water sites throughout ing water levels, water quality, atmosthe region. pheric, topographical survey, hydraulic The District staff monitor rainfall and geologic data, following applicable at 170 sites; collect water quality samstate and federal guidelines. District sciples from 82 spring sites, 226 surface entists conduct water quality analyses in water sites and 524 wells; and evalua certified laboratory and primarily test ate data collection at monitoring sites for chloride, sulfate and total dissolved every three years, and those sites that solids. are no longer needed are discontinued.

Q: How does the District collect Q: Can the public see the District’s data? data collection?

A: The District collects data from A: Yes, all of the data collected and monitor wells, springs, rain gauges and mapped is available for download from surface water bodies throughout the 16the District’s Data and Maps website county region. The District collects under the Resources tab on the District’s hydraulic data to understand specific main webpage at WaterMatters.org.

It is no wonder Holland went on to Brandon Auto give an example of a Services is going customer whose vehistrong after nearly cle needed collision 50 years in the repair, but did not business. Owners have the ability to go Steve Holland and past a certain budget.

Ken Anderson are “We fixed the door, but passionate and we did not repaint at knowledgeable the customer’s about all things request. We have the automotive. Plus, ability to do that they believe in givbecause we have the ing customers Steve Holland, co-owner of Brandon salvage yard, and we Auto Services, was recently honored have a comparable choices so they by the Automotive Recyclers can get back on part in stock in most Association with a Lifetime the road without cases,” he said.

Achievement Award. breaking the bank.

Recently, the In addition to Automotive general repairs, Recyclers engines/transmisAssociation honored sions repairs, colHolland with a 813-689-8131 • 3159 E. State Road 60 - Valrico Lifetime Achievement lision repair and tire services, Award. Holland was Brandon Auto Services works hard to grateful and excited, saying, “It’s purchase damaged or used vehicles pretty awesome because it’s a so it can recycle parts. This is a critinational association. People from all cal portion of the automotive supply over the world are part of this. A lot chain. Customers get options and of people deserve it, and I feel lucky valuable metals like steel, aluminum to get it.” Born in Tampa and raised and plastic can be recycled and kept in Brandon, automotive work is in his out of landfills. bloodline. His father owned one of Holland explained what sets it the first body shops in the 60s. This apart: “I think growing up in the comaward is validation for a lifetime of munity and doing honest work is real- commitment to his craft and an ongoly the main thing. We give options to ing promise to the customer for qualithe consumer; we can do used parts, ty service and selection. Brandon new factory OEM parts or recycled Auto Services is located at 3161 E. OEM parts. Customers can choose S.R. 60 in Valrico. Visit www.brandohow their vehicles are repaired.” nautoservices.com or call 651-2288.

Staff Report

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Page 10

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Brenda Wade Team Partners With Local Businesses To Benefit Seeds Of Hope

By Michelle Caceres

The Brenda had their hours Wade Real Estate reduced.

Team and its busi“There have ness partners have been so many peoteamed up for the ple in our own comeighth annual munity that have Partners in Giving been impacted by event, which has the economic ramiraised almost fications of COVID$20,000 for Seeds 19,” she said. “The of Hope, a charity boxes of food we that provides food distribute weekly assistance to local The Brenda Wade Real Estate Team and has gone from 120 its partners have donated almost $20,000 boxes before the families through to Seeds of Hope in conjunction with its once-a-week food pandemic to a annual Partners in Giving event. distributions, a recent record of 618 mobile food pantry and a ‘Backpack of boxes.”

Food’ program coordinated with local Leda said the charity couldn’t do it schools. without the support of local businesses This is the third year in a row Wade, like the Brenda Wade Team. her team and business partners have “I am so appreciative of her and her donated to Seeds of Hope, totaling more team choosing Seeds of Hope as their than $40,000. “With everything that is charity of choice for the Partners in Giving going on this year, I thought Seeds of program,” she said.

Hope would be the best choice,” said Wade is thankful to her business Wade. partners, who offered their support not It was an excellent choice. only to her clients but to the community Seeds of Hope Founder Leda Eaton as well. The businesses she worked with said that this year the food bank has seen this year included Hillsborough Title, Only an unprecedented need for food, serving Pro Painters, Buyer’s Choice Inspection, more neighbors during the COVID-19 Complete Choice Insurance, The Home pandemic than ever before.

Loan Expert, All American Title, Meek According to Feeding America, the Insurance, Guaranteed Rate Insurance, nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief The Osprey Observer, Valley Bank Home and food rescue organization, more than Loan and United Mutual Funding Corp.

80 percent of food banks nationwide are “When we work together, we can serving more people now than they did a make a difference,” she said. year ago. Many of those served are getFor more information about Seeds of ting help for the first time as people who Hope or to find out how to help, visit had stable incomes have now lost jobs or www.sohopefl.org.

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Volume 15, Issue 12

Bloomingdale AFJROTC Teacher Reflects On Time Spent Teaching

By Faith Miller

Lt. Colonel Malcolm Carolina. He then proceedSnell is in his fourth year of ed to move to Florida and teaching the AFJROTC began teaching at (Air Force Junior Reserve Bloomingdale High School.

Officer Training Corps) at “This area is special Bloomingdale High School. because our goal is to help “It allows me to teach today’s youth to be citizens in a subject area I love and that we can all be proud of. know. All told, I have been We use the core values of wearing the Air Force unithe Air Force to accomplish form for 42 years.” said this,” said Snell when Snell. describing why he believes He began his journey the program is special. in 1978 when he became Snell explained that Lt. Colonel Malcolm Snell is an enlisted airman and in his fourth year of teaching the program is required to AFJROTC (Air Force Junior follow standards set by the had a job as an engineerReserve Officer Training ing assistant. His responsi- Corps) at Bloomingdale High Air Force, including dress bilities included drawing and appearance guideSchool. construction plans for lines, and that it uses the updates and new constructions Air Force’s core values in its at the bases where he was stateaching. The values tioned, along with performing described include ‘Integrity land surveys. He also eventually First,’ ‘Service before Self’ worked as a project inspector and ‘Excellence in for all constructions on the Everything.’ These values base. In 1988, Snell left active duty and teach students to always strive to do joined the Air National Guard and was the right thing in everything they do, to commissioned as an officer in 1989 while give back to the community and country training in emergency management. and to never settle for mediocrity when Due to the fact the Air National Guard doing anything. is a one-weekend-a-month job, he took a Reflecting on his time teaching, he civilian job as a teacher in Northern New said that some of his favorite moments York, teaching areas of architectural draft- have always been when a student ing, special education and technology. comes back to visit and thanks him for Snell taught until 2005, when the Air “being there, giving them the mentorNational Guard activated him and he was ship they needed or helping them realput in charge of a ‘Weapons of Mass ize their potential.”

Destruction Response Team.’ He continTo learn more about the AFJROTC ued doing this until retiring in 2012 and program, call Bloomingdale High becoming an AFJROTC teacher in North School at 744-8018.

December 2020

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 11

Holiday On Wheels & Metropolitan Ministries Fed Families For Thanksgiving

Brandon Outreach Clinic Offers Free Medical Assistance For Qualified Hillsborough Residents

Families in the drive-through Holiday Brandon area were able Tent. “Together, TBNEH to celebrate Thanksgiving and Metropolitan with full bellies thanks to Ministries will work a local partnership. together to serve the Tampa Bay Network entire community with to End Hunger (TBNEH), food for the holidays in a tri-county leader in the tri-county area,” said hunger relief, research Lauren Vance, director of and program developprograms and communiment, delivered ‘Holidays cations with TBNEH. Local families, even those On Wheels’ to transTampa Bay Network unable to leave their homes, portation-disadvantaged to End Hunger is commitreceived food for Thanksgiving and homebound families ted to ending hunger in last month thanks to a with children last month. partnership between Tampa Bay Tampa Bay by bringing Network to End Hunger and Holidays On Wheels people together to find Metropolitan Ministries. was developed, in partsolutions that eliminate nership with Metropolitan Ministries, to barriers, increase access and knowledge ensure that every family has a nutritious as well as expand the amount of nutriand joyous holiday celebration. tious food available. It has over 350 “I am so thankful this program is members and serves the tri-county area available to people like me. I lost my job of Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas because of COVID and we have been Counties. TBNEH is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit struggling,” said Rita, Holidays On agency and relies on its community for Wheels head of household. “I have three support. young children and after losing my job I The network is currently accepting had to give up my car, and keeping our donations at cabinets full has been hard enough. And www.networktoendhunger.org. For more with the holidays coming, I wasn’t sure information, call 344-5837. how I was going to give my family As a local, independent nonprofit, Thanksgiving. Thank you for helping us Metropolitan Ministries has provided servduring this difficult time. You are blessing.” ices that alleviate suffering, promote digniTBNEH utilized 150 volunteers to ty and instill self-sufficiency for at-risk and deliver turkeys and meal ingredients for homeless families in Tampa Bay since Thanksgiving to 600 families, including 1972. Its vision is to be America’s most over 3,000 individuals, that are homeeffective and innovative caregiver for bound or do not have access to a workthose in need. Metropolitan Ministries’ ing or reliable vehicle. For those families main campus is located at 2002 N. that have their own transportation, Florida Ave. in Tampa. For more informaMetropolitan Ministries hosted its annual tion, visit www.metromin.org.

Hundreds of cars pass healthy so they can go to by 517 N. Parsons Ave. work and take care of their weekly in Brandon. There families by managing their is a sign at the end of an conditions, keeping them out inconspicuous strip mall of expensive emergency saying Brandon Outreach rooms and minimizing Clinic (BOC) is located healthcare costs in our comthere. What that sign does munity. not say is that BOC might Although most patients have an answer to the coming to BOC work and healthcare concerns of have incomes at or below many residents of 200 percent of the federal Dr. Stephen Parks opened Hillsborough County who the doors to the Brandon poverty level (for a family of Outreach Clinic in 1989. do not have health insurfour, this is $48,600), their ance and cannot afford jobs do not include access to healthcare, and the clinic affordable health insurance. charges no fees for services to qualified As an income-based clinic, those seeking patients. medical services are asked for donations The vision to create a safety net for to help purchase medications, medical uninsured and underinsured individuals supplies and operating expenses. who were falling through the healthcare The eligibility requirements for pedicracks began in 1987. Stephen D. Parks, atric (infants to 17 years) and adults (18M.D. brainstormed what this clinic might 64 years) are: (1) resident of Hillsborough look like with other medical and commuCounty, (2) U.S. citizen or permanent resnity leaders. When Dr. Parks suggested ident, (3) meet low income guidelines and that someone needed to be appointed as (4) no other medical insurance (including point man, they appointed him.

Medicare, Medicaid or other governmentAfter two years of planning, fundraisfunded healthcare.) ing and establishing a grassroots network Dr. Parks established his primary of providers, the clinic opened its doors in care practice in 1983 and has served on April 1989. Staffed entirely by volunteers, boards for six years at Brandon Regional the clinic opened only one evening a Hospital and for 25 years as a medical week. Since then, a collaboration with director at BOC. He said, “The impact of other medical providers and volunteers this clinic goes far beyond just treating has expanded its hours to four days a physical conditions. We hope to positively week. impact individuals, families and our comBOC is a 501(c)(3) organization offer- munity by bridging the gap for the unining diagnostic and primary care and a sured.” three-tiered pharmacy. The goal of BOC For information, visit www.theis to help patients become and remain outreachclinic.com or call 654-1388.

Staff Report

01/01/2021

By Gwen Rollings

Page 12

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 15, Issue 12

Superintendent Davis Selects Educators For Teacher Advisory Council

Lightning Asst. Equipment Manager Shares Stanley Cup Day With Family & Friends

School the problem or an Superintendent accomplice to the Addison Davis has solution,” she said. “I selected a talented choose the latter.” group of 50 highly She was thrilled qualified educators when she found out to serve on his she was selected as inaugural a board member and Superintendent’s looks forward to servTeacher Advisory ing with her fellow Council (STAC).

Hillsborough County Superintendent Davis of Hillsborough The purpose educators.

County Public Schools has selected of the council is to outstanding educators to be members of “In my mind, the the Superintendent’s Teacher Advisory council lends itself to provide an imporCouncil (STAC). tant voice for collective decisionteachers in the district’s decision-makmaking where we can think aloud, ing process and to provide the superinbrainstorm options, consider alternatendent with insights, suggestions and tives, evaluate risks and share our perspectives on critical educational opinions freely,” she said. “The diversity issues. The STAC, which is comprised on the council will offer Mr. Davis a of teachers from all grade levels, will wealth of information for a fresh enable better educational and adminisapproach to solving, not just pondering, trative decisions that will ultimately lead problems and improving performance.” to creating a positive working environThe council will meet monthly with ment and a safe and nurturing learning Superintendent Davis to discuss issues environment for students. relating to diverse academic experiCommittee members, who serve a ences, student support services, school seven-month term, include local school- culture, fair and consistent discipline teachers Lori Beth Bradner, an AVID and other factors that impact schools. coordinator at Randall Middle School, “I am excited to begin this collaboand Jon Sever, a music teacher at rative process to identify our strengths Bloomingdale High School. Teachers and areas of opportunity,” said superinwere selected after an application tendent Davis. “On the council are pheprocess that included an online applica- nomenal educators who will provide tion and, for some, an in-person interfresh perspectives that will help shape view. the future of the district.”

Bradner, who is in her fifth year at For more information about the Randall, was inspired to apply after Teacher Advisory Council or the School watching a video about the council and District of Hillsborough County, visit its purpose. “In life, we can be part of www.sdhc.k12.fl.us.

Brandon resident eating at the food trucks Rob Kennedy’s name is outside. He then etched on the most brought the Cup next famous trophy in sports, door to the Heroes Only the Stanley Cup. The Barber Shop, where he assistant equipment gets his hair cut. After manager for the Tampa the festivities, they went Bay Lightning was a back to his house to part of the 2020 chamhave a party with his pionship team. friends and family to Kennedy has been end the night. with the club for 13 Kennedy’s job was years, after previously particularly difficult this Rob Kennedy lifts the Stanley season with the NHL working for several Cup over his head. minor league teams as playing its playoff well as the Florida Panthers. He got games in a bubble in Canada after a started with hockey when he was in four-month break during the regular college in Chicago, mainly because it season. The Lightning started in was the only job available near his Toronto and later traveled to school.

Edmonton for the last two rounds. He It’s customary that each player spent about two months away from his and member of the staff of the winning family during the championship run. team gets to spend a day with the Kennedy and his staff had to do a lot Stanley Cup trophy in the off-season. of planning, making sure the players Kennedy wanted to share the experihad everything they needed. Jerseys, ence with his community and the peosticks, skates, gloves and helmets, ple closest to him. among other things, had to be packed The day started with Kennedy up on the plane to travel. Kennedy bringing the Cup to his parents’ house said that they still aren’t completely in Cape Coral. His father has been unpacked after the trip. sick and Kennedy didn’t want him Kennedy’s dream of winning the exposed to other people in the midst Stanley Cup came true when the of the pandemic. The Beer Shed in Lightning defeated the Dallas Stars in Riverview was the next stop, where six games. “All the hard work finally they stayed for about an hour, and paid off, not just the work we put in they later ended up at Bullfrog Creek this year, but the long work we put in Brewing Co. in Valrico from 3-6 p.m. throughout our careers,” said Kennedy.

Kennedy and his family built a special “I don’t think people know how hard it bond with the Bullfrog Creek owner is to win a championship at any level, and staff after frequenting the bar and let alone the greatest trophy ever.”

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Page 13

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Brandon Regional Hospital Acquires Newest Endoscopic Ultrasound Technology

Staff Report

Brandon Regional Dedania, MD recently Hospital has acquired the completed the first EUS latest technology to perform procedure at Brandon endoscopic ultrasound Regional Hospital.

(EUS) procedures.

“Brandon and the Physicians at Brandon surrounding communiRegional Hospital are now ties will benefit from using this technology in a access to this advanced, variety of applications to minimally invasive techhelp them with the diagnonique,” said Dr. Dedania. sis and staging of cancers “The EUS system allows such as esophageal, gasfor further evaluation, tric, rectal and pancreatic which facilitates cancers; diagnose diseases improved identification of internal organs; locate and more accurate stagcommon bile duct stones; ing of GI tumors.” and evaluate masses in the Because EUS can lining of the GI tract or in be used to visualize Brandon Regional Hospital has enlarged stomach folds. acquired the latest technology other organs outside the to perform endoscopic ultra- digestive tract, EUS EUS combines ultrasound (EUS) procedures. sound technology with plays an important role in endoscopy to gain an internal vantage diagnosing diseases of the pancreas, bile point for better visualization. While conduct, liver, spleen and gallbladder, as well ventional endoscopy only provides a view as assessing a variety of cancers. In of the innermost lining of the digestive addition, EUS is useful in therapeutic tract or its wall, the addition of ultrasound applications such as tissue sample collecallows the physician to see beyond that tion, cyst drainage or biopsies of lymph wall to visualize all five layers of the GI nodes, making it an ideal, minimally invatract as well as surrounding tissue and sive alternative to exploratory surgery. organs.

Accredited by The Joint Commission, From a clinical perspective, this Brandon Regional Hospital is a 422-bed means that an abnormality below the sur- acute care facility that is nationally ranked face of the digestive tract wall—such as a as a Top 100 Hospital by IBM Watson, a suspicious growth that was detected at a Top Teaching Hospital by The Leapfrog prior endoscopy or during a CT-scan or Group, a U.S. News & World Report High physical exam—can be further evaluated Performing Hospital in COPD and Heart under EUS, helping doctors better underFailure, and a Leapfrog Group ‘A’ for stand its nature and prescribe the best patient safety. The hospital is located at treatment option.

119 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more Gastroenterologist Bhavtosh information, visit BrandonHospital.com.

Hope For Her Schedules Golf Tournament

By Kate Quesada

Get out your golf help. Each woman clubs and enjoy a and child supported round for a great

by Hope for Her cause next month. receives one-on-one Hope for Her, a individualized support Brandon organization unique to their situahelping women facing tion. homelessness, hunger, Its work is also job loss, domestic vioguided by God, with lence and other seriChrist and his teachous life issues, is hostings at the heart of its ing a golf tournament mission. at River Hills in Valrico “We are so on Monday, January grateful at Hope for 18, 2021.

Her for the overThe event, which whelming love and starts with a check-in prayers,” said at 7:30 a.m. and a Hickman. “Thank you shotgun start at 8:30 to all who partner a.m., includes lunch with us to give hope and prizes for hole-inand invest in changone, straightest drive, ing lives. You are a closest to the pin and blessing to many putting. There will families right here in also be a raffle and our community.”

Hope for Her is hosting a golf tournaauction baskets.

Hope for Her is ment next month to raise funds to help local women in need.

“We are so excitalso hosting a meeted about our 2021 golf tournament,” and-greet for the family and friends of said Cheryl Hickman, executive director. beloved volunteer Peggy Jones on “2020 was a tough year. We reschedSunday, January 17, 2021 from 4-6 p.m. uled the golf tournament a couple times at the River Hills Clubhouse. and now it is finally happening. River The goal of the event is to honor her Hills Golf Club and our community is so with a time of fellowship and rememsupportive of the work we do.” brance.

Hope for Her helps approximately “You can be the hope for women 100 women in need in each month, but and children experiencing unimaginable has to turn people away due to a lack of life circumstances in our area,” said funds. The charity takes a big picture Hickman. approach and supports women in every For more information, call Hickman aspect of their lives, including housing, at 309-3357, employment, childcare, food, finances, email info@hopeforherfl.org or go transportation and safety, in an effort to to HopeForHerFL.org.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Dooley Groves Shipping & U-Pick In Ruskin Opens For Its 53rd Citrus Season

By Tatiana Ortiz

Individuals This month, seeking a famipeople can U-pick ly-friendly, Sugarbelles, which socially disis a cross between tanced activity a clementine, a should visit tangerine and a Dooley Groves Honeybell. in Ruskin, which Dooley Groves reopened on has more than November 19 6,500 Honeybell for its 53rd cittrees open for Urus season. pick from January Diane through April. For The grandsons of Dooley Groves Owners Houghtaling and the U-pick, Dooley Mike Houghtaling and his wife, Diane her husband, Groves supplies Houghtaling.

Mike Houghtaling, own the 40-acre baskets and clippers. Once the proorange grove offering U-pick and fruit duce gets picked, guests are charged sales. by the pound. During the season, UMike is a fifth-generation Florida pick is open seven days a week from farmer who loves the business, which 10 a.m.-4 p.m. was first started 53 years ago by In addition to the U-pick citrus, Mike’s grandparents and parents and Dooley Groves offers a retail store has been handed down for three gen- with local items such as unfiltered erations. orange blossom honey, fruit jams and Dooley Groves grows fresh, premore. It also makes freshly squeezed mium citrus fruits and is the largest orange juice and other products.

U-pick Honeybell grove in Florida, Furthermore, it can ship fruit all over and it offers several other citrus varithe United States and Canada. eties throughout the citrus season “There are not many old-time cittoo. rus groves and markets left in Florida, To help keep everyone comfortnone in Hillsborough County quite like able while at Dooley Groves, the fam- Dooley Groves,” Diane said. “For ily made some adjustments with the example, we offer fresh picked citrus U-pick procedures, how it takes shipvarieties that most places do not ping orders and much more. have, like the pink pomelos and “We feel that one of the best more,” she added. ideas people can do right now is to For more information, visit be outside in the wide-open spaces, www.dooleygroves.com. It is located getting vitamin D while getting vitamin at 1651 Stephens Rd. in Ruskin. Call C,” Diane said.

645-3256.

Volume 15, Issue 12

Local Resident Helps To Empower Women In The Community

By Libby Hopkins

Katie McGill of asked McGill to Valrico is a local take her place as powerhouse. She is executive director. the executive direc“I have been the tor of Dress for executive director Success Tampa for 12 years now, Bay and she is the but a volunteer recipient of the since day one,” 2017 the Tampa McGill said.

Bay Lightning’s The mission of Community Hero Dress for Success Award. She is also is to empower known in the comwomen to achieve munity for her economic indeworkshops and volpendence by proKatie McGill of Valrico is the executive director of Dress for Success Tampa Bay unteerism. viding a network of and she is the recipient of the 2017 the McGill develsupport, profesTampa Bay Lightning’s Community Hero oped the Success Award. She is known in the community for sional attire and her workshops and volunteerism.

Strategies program the development for the Centre for Women, which provides tools to help women thrive in work and in intensive employment services to women life. “We provide each client with profesages 18-35 who are unemployed and sional attire to secure employment, but underemployed. She implemented this we are about much more than simply a program from a grant concept, operanew outfit,” McGill said. “Besides physitionalized and expanded, all in a very cally equipping the client with apparel and short period of time. accessories, our programs furnish her After working for Centre for Women with a confidence that she carries forevfor 10 years, she resigned and started er.” her own organization called Let’s Talk The recent pandemic has had an Consulting Group. affect on Dress for Success. Donations When Dress for Success’ founder, are down and the needs have increased.

Pat Ellington, decided to start the local “We are in need of under garments, plusnonprofit, McGill immediately stepped up size business attire and we can always to volunteer for Ellington. “When she use black dress pants in all sizes,” McGill came to the Centre for Women years ago said. To learn more about Dress for and started talking about Dress for Success or to make a donation to the Success, I knew I wanted to volunteer local nonprofit, visit www.tampabay.dresswith her and help her,” McGill said. “I love forsuccess.org or call 259-1876. Dress for volunteering and giving back to our comSuccess is located at 1705 N. Howard munity.” When Ellington retired, she Ave. in Tampa.

December 2020

Page 15

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Power Disconnect Calls Are Scams

By Libby Hopkins

The other day was no longer in servwhile I was at work, the ice.” “We’re not disconphone rang and it was necting people for nona recorded message payment right now from TECO. It said that because of the pan“my power at my place demic,” TECO spokesof business was set for woman Cherie Jacobs disconnection in 30 said. “So-called ‘spoofminutes” and if I’d like ing’ scams are comCOVID-19 scams are on the rise. to speak to a TECO Never answer robocalls or respond mon. An unauthorized to emails you don’t recognize. representative I could person makes it look “press one.” like they’re calling from a legitimate I pressed one and I was connected source and demands money from a custo Diana Rodriguez with TECO’s customer. It’s plagued Tampa Electric for the tomer service. Ms. Rodriguez explained past eight years,” Jacobs said. to me that since my place of business Other COVID-19 scams to be aware was closed for three months, due to the of are stimulus check scams. “When stimCOVID-19 pandemic, my place of busiulus checks were being distributed ness’ electric bill was now delinquent and nationwide, we anticipated phone and my power would be disconnected in 30 email scams related to checks and minutes. I asked Ms. Rodriguez if she worked to get ahead of that issue by could pause this disconnection so I could spreading awareness online and through call my boss and see if we could get a PSA,” said Crystal Clark, chief commucaught up on our bill. She said she could nications officer for the Hillsborough pause the disconnection, but I would County Sheriff’s Office. have to pay in cash only. She gave me Be wary even of COVID-19 contact her “direct line” to call back once I had tracing callers, the latest COVID-19 scam. spoken to my boss.

According to the Federal Trade When I called my boss, in an Commission’s website (www.ftc.gov/coroabsolute panic, to ask him if we had navirus/scams-consumer-advice), “Learn enough cash to get our electricity caught how to tell the difference between a real up, he informed me that since our busicontact tracer and a scammer. Legitimate ness is housed in a county building, the tracers need health information, not county pays our electricity. He also money or personal financial information. informed me that I had just fallen for a … Ignore offers for vaccinations and mirscam! I was extremely mad. I called Ms. acle treatments or cures. Scammers are Rodriguez back on her direct line and selling products to treat or prevent informed her that the county pays our bill. COVID-19 without proof that they work.

She immediately hung up on me. When I Be wary of ads for test kits.” Use called back again, I got a recording saysites coronavirus.gov and usa.gov/coroning, “The number I was trying to reach avirus to get the latest information.

Consider These Year-end Financial Moves

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Page 16

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

tory S s d e e N l a i c e a, p t S n a S h it Time W lendars & Ca Kitten ore M by Jenny Bennett om ed Compil preyobserver.c s o @ jbennett

last.

ited time at all Chick-fil-A restaurants. In addition to the returning menu items, participating restaurants are also offering a selection of holiday gifts and merchandise, including holiday ornaments, bottled sauces and seasonal gift cards.

These are only available while supplies

Special Needs Story Time With Santa

Barry White after he was nursed back to health.

Cute Kitten Calendars Help Save Lives

Local animal charity A Kitten Place has just launched a cute calendar for 2021 featuring cats and kittens that they have saved over the past year. A Kitten Place specializes in rescuing the cats and kittens in most need and nurses them back to health. Barry White, a kitten, was found laying in a gutter and was unable to move due to extreme malnutrition. Due to A Kitten Place’s diligent care and unwillingness to give up on him, Barry slowly improved and is now a beautiful, young cat enjoying life with his new owners.

Calendars are $20 and can be purchased by emailing akittenplace@gmail.com to place an order. All proceeds directly benefit the charity.

For additional information on A Kitten Place or to view any of its adoptable cats or kittens, please visit akittenplace.org.

Seasonal Favorites Return To Chick-fil-A

The holiday season has arrived and this marks the return of two favorites to the Chick-fil-a seasonal menu: the peppermint chip milkshake and the chicken tortilla soup. These two items are now available for a lim-

Santa will be visiting F.R.I.E.N.D.S., a Down syndrome and special needs group, to read a few favorite Christmas stories live via Zoom. Santa will then spend some one-on-one time with each child, checking to see if they have been naughty or nice and to find out what they would like for Christmas. The stories he will be reading are: Tuesday, December 22, Five More Sleeps ‘til Christmas

by Jimmy Fallon; Wednesday, December 23, The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg; and Thursday, December 24, The Night Before Christmas by Clement Moore. This is a free event and all ages and abilities are welcome.

Spaces are limited and you will need to register on Zoom and send an RSVP to info@friendssupport. You will then receive the log-in information for the event.

Bingo Returns To St. Stephen Catholic Church

Bingo returns to St. Stephen’s Catholic Church on Tuesday, January 19, 2021.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and bingo will begin at 6:30 p.m. The cost to play is $15 and there are cash prizes. The event is sponsored by St. Stephen Catholic Church Community for Women, who provide support to the St. Stephen community at large with donations.

St. Stephen Catholic Church is located at 10118 St. Stephen Cir. in Riverview.

Volume 15, Issue 12

December 2020

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 17

Snowcat Ridge Joins The Tampa Community And Brings Snow To Florida

The Knights Of Columbus Provide Holiday Dinners To Local Veterans

The ribbon was Coast, and a member cut on the fresh fallen of the team that Florida snow on helped Nagengast’s November 20 at project come to life, Snowcat Ridge Alpine was on hand at the Snow Park. Yes, you ribbon-cutting. “We read that correctly, really weren’t anticifresh fallen Florida pating to add snowsnow. tubing and snowball Snowcat Ridge is fights to our destinaFlorida’s only alpine tion’s repertoire of snow park with real activities and we are snow. It features a 60- Snowcat Ridge is Florida’s only alpine so excited to have snow park with real snow. foot-tall and 400-footthat in our own backlong snow-covered tubing hill with magic yard,” Thomas said. “If you think about it, carpet lifts, an Alpine Village and a 10,000 what’s more unique than a mouse, a roll sq. ft. snow dome. Snowcat Ridge will coaster and a beach? A snow park in also feature a child-sized snow hill for Florida, how amazing is that?” young riders and a magical music and Since opening, the park has had an light show during the evenings. overwhelming amount of interest and “We have had a tremendous amount guests at the park to the extent that of support on this project and it has been Nagengast’s team is working diligently to a very unique project to bring to Florida,” produce snow for inside the park’s Arctic said Snowcat Ridge’s CEO, Benjamin Igloo.

Nagengast. “My family and I have owned “We are working hard on our snow and operated family attractions for the last production efforts so that we have 20 years and so this our new facility, enough snow for everyone to play with, Snowcat Ridge Alpine Snow Park, in the as well as have the bunny slopes operastate of Florida.” tional, to keep up with the overwhelming Nagengast and his team have been demand,” Negengast said. “We definitely working on Snowcat Ridge for the last want to ensure all of the kids and families five years. He selected the sight for that want to see and play in the snow are Snowcat Ridge because it’s adjacent to able to. In regards to Snowy Slopes and his other properties, TreeHoppers and the Alpine Village, which includes a Scream-A-Geddon. “We were able to Christmas Market, these are open, with combine the best of both worlds, which is limited capacity to adhere to the COVIDthe sunshine and the snow,” Nagengast 19 guidelines.” said. “It is no mean feat to be able to For info and tickets, visit www.snowcombine those two aspects.” catridge.com. The park is located at Adam Thomas of Florida’s Sports 27839 Saint Joe Rd. in Dade City.

A group of local Catholic Church in veterans enjoyed a Valrico to provide delicious Thanksgiving meals Thanksgiving thanks for local veterans. to some local Knights.

“The idea for the The Knights of Thanksgiving dinners Columbus is a truly came out of Catholic fraternal need in the communiorganization founded ty,” Andersen said. on the mission to aid “About 15 years ago and protect widows the members of and orphans. The Assembly 1850 wantorganization was ed to do something Knights of Columbus Assembly 1850 founded in 1882 by during the holiday worked together with the students of Nativity Catholic Church to provide local season to help out now-blessed Father veterans and their families Michael J. McGivney those who served Thanksgiving dinners. to provide financial our country. We were assistance to widows and their children already partnered with Haley Cove and after the passing of the father. saw the need with veteran families trying Service and charity are at the heart to make ends meet. This year, we relied of the Knights of Columbus. It was found- heavily on the generosity of our membered to meet the needs of immigrants, ship to help us make our budget for the refugees and families suffering from the Turkey Drive. Big help came from the kids death of a breadwinner. The Knights at Nativity Catholic School donating began as a small service organization $1,000 to the VA Turkey Drive.” and it has grown into a worldwide finanThe Knights worked with the local cial and charitable organization.

Veteran Affairs Office to get the “Locally, our Assembly 1850, named Thanksgiving meals and turkeys to the after Bishop Charles B. McLaughlin, is veterans and their families before part of our patriotic degree,” said Marc Thanksgiving Day. “We are truly honored Andersen of the Brandon Knights of to assist those in our community who Columbus. “Named after the first bishop have served our country,” Andersen said. of the St. Petersburg diocese, we donate “Many of our members are active or our time to serving those who served our retired military personnel. They take great country. We are also partnered with pride in doing their best to serve and Assembly 3418, Monsignor John F. honor their brothers and sisters in the Scully, to meet the growing need in our armed forces.” veteran community.”

To learn more about The Knights of Andersen and his fellow Knights Columbus, visit www.kofc.org. worked with the students of Nativity

By Libby Hopkins

M cAuley Fine Jewelry Open Tuesday-Friday 10-6 • Saturday 10-4

By Libby Hopkins

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 15, Issue 12

Pottery With Parkinson’s Keeps Retired Chaplain Active And Raising Funds For Cure

Tech Connect Program Offers Internet Support To Hillsborough County Elementary Students & Families

Bruce Wright—or everything we sell ‘Bishop,’ as many to the Michael J. people in the Plant Fox Foundation to City area also know help find a cure for him, because he Parkinson’s.” worked for 15 years Bruce finds as the senior chaplain inspiration for his for Florida Hospital pieces from Tampa in Tampa— YouTube and has a passion for Pinterest, but he scripture and pottery. loves the whole “I am an Anglican process of making bishop and the nickone of them. “From name kind of stuck,” start of a piece to Bruce said. finally pulling it Bruce and Elaine Wright are the owners of from the kiln, I love He has been Pottery with Parkinson’s. They started married to his wife, their business after Bruce was diagnosed the entire process,” with Parkinson’s Disease in 2007.

Elaine Wright, for Bruce said. “It more than 44 years. “I was diagnosed forces me to concentrate on the task at with Parkinson’s disease in 2007,” Bruce hand, which gets my mind off of my myrisaid. “Upon retirement, actually disability, ad aches and pains.” from the hospital in 2015, I found myself Scripture influences his pieces as bored silly. Of course, I was still active in well. “As I sit at the wheel, I am reminded our church, I still hung around with friends of the Scripture in Isaiah 64:8, ‘But now, at the cigar stores, but the extra free time Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, I used, although unintentionally, [was] and you our potter, and all of us are driving my wife crazy. A retired art the work of your hand,’” Bruce said. “If teacher, she suggested I look into potgiven the choice, I would not have chotery.” sen to have Parkinson’s disease, but I am The couple started Pottery with encouraged by the fact that God is in Parkinson’s as a way for Bruce to help charge and He has a plan. He directs the with his condition and to raise money for events of my life. As I encounter difficulthe Michael J. Fox Foundation. ties, learning to trust in His potters’ hands “We started Pottery with Parkinson’s is tremendously encouraging and reasprimarily for me for therapy on my cramp- suring.” ing hands, arms, etc. after I was first diagTo learn more about Pottery with nosed in 2007,” Bruce said. “We began Parkinson’s or to buy a piece of Bruce’s offering it for sale to generate a few bucks pottery, visit and also to clear out our rapidly growing www.potterywithparkinsons.com or call inventory. We donate a percentage of him at 493-0856.

School closures due “Since launching on October to COVID-19 impacted 5, we’ve received 48 referrals Hillsborough County stufrom public elementary dents, teachers and schools across Hillsborough families in numerous County with more coming in ways, but social and daily. We are working to economic issues quickly enroll as many students and created a digital divide families as quickly as possiand became a matter of ble.” urgency for Hillsborough Funding from the Education Foundation Children’s Board added (HEF). four full-time staff: a According to Kim program coordinator Daniel is one of Hillsborough Jowell, CEO of HEF, Country's Tech Connect stu- and three e-learning coaches. dents who was given a com“Closing the digital Although the grant does puter and internet support. divide for our highest not cover the total cost of needs students has been a top priority internet service, HEF has committed since inequities surfaced during the pannearly $40,000 to ensure more children demic. We launched our new initiative have the tools they need to succeed. The called Tech Connect in October to contin- cost to serve a student with a computer ue our work to create equitable access to and internet for a year is $640 per child. resources and opportunities for all stuEligible students must be referred to dents in Hillsborough County Public this free program by a student’s school Schools.” social worker, instructional staff or adminFocusing on the premise that every istrators. Based on the family’s needs, student should have access and the they may receive a computer, one year of opportunity to benefit from a high-quality internet access and guidance in using eeducation, COVID-19 presented unique learning programs, as well as ongoing challenges concerning disparities that support and training. some families in Hillsborough County Jowell explained, “Families must face by not having internet access, espeweigh a number of personal factors in cially in rural areas, or affording quality making the decision between e-learning internet service. or attending classes at school. HEF’s The Tech Connect program was Tech Connect initiative supports students funded by a grant from the Children’s and families who choose e-learning but Board of Hillsborough County and will aren’t fully equipped with technology to support nearly 300 families of elementary reach their full academic potential.” school students participating in e-learning.

To volunteer, donate or for more Mindy Taylor, HEF’s Tech Connect proinformation, visit http://educationfoundagram coordinator, said in early November, tion.com/programs/donate.

By Libby Hopkins

By Gwen Rollings

December 2020

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 19

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Page 20

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 15, Issue 12

In This Section

Brandon/Winthrop

COVID‐19 TESTING .........................PG 23 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT...............PG 24 SPORTS CONNECTION ....................PG 25 WEDDING OFFICIANT.....................PG 27

December 2020

Volume 15, Issue 12 Ph: 657-2418

CROSS BAY FERRY...........................PG 27

Cali Cafe Celebrates Grand Reopening

Cali Cafe in Riverview opened its doors on January 9. Shortly after its grand opening, the coronavirus pandemic swept the nation, which resulted in the shutdown of restaurants and cafes. With the Riverview community slowly reopening, it celebrated its grand reopening with much confidence and great goals for the future. Cali Cafe specializes in Colombian fare. It serves pastries, breads and savory snacks produced every morning by their personal chef, who has over 50 years of experience. Cali Cafe is also known for its Colombian coffee that is exported directly from Colombia to its store.

Cali Cafe is located at 10010 U.S. Hwy. 301 in Riverview, behind Kazbor’s Grille & Bar. For more information, visit https://calicafe-coffeeshop.business.site/, and you can reach it by calling 871-0791.

Herzing University Opens NursingFocused Campus In Tampa

Herzing University, an accredited, private, nonprofit institution with locations in seven states, announced it will open a new campus in Tampa in early 2021.

Herzing’s Tampa campus will offer several nursing programs and pathways that are modeled after the programs at the school’s Orlando campus. The new campus will be at 3632 Queen Palm Dr. in Tampa. The more-than-30,000 sq. ft. campus will feature modern classrooms and common areas as well as state-of-

community,” said hospital President Kimberly Guy. “St. Joseph’s Hospital’s Heart Institute is one of the most advanced and comprehensive centers for cardiovascular care in Florida. We combine our expertise with compassionate care and are at the forefront of the latest research and new techniques in heart care.” the-art nursing skills labs and simulation learning technology.

Enrollment is open immediately, with general education courses beginning in January 2021 and core nursing classes starting later in the year. For more information about Herzing University - Tampa, visit www.herzing.edu/tampa or email tpainfo@herzing.edu.

Phoenix House Florida Supports Those Struggling With Substance Use

COVID-19 has disrupted routines, created the loss of in-person support meetings and counseling and forced the collapse of other support structures, all of which increase the risk of relapse and overdose. The forced isolation is especially dangerous to those struggling with addiction and recovery. The National Institute on Drug Abuse estimates that drug overdoses have increased 30-40 percent since the initial outbreak of the virus. Phoenix House Florida is proud to support those struggling with substance use by providing outpatient and residen-

The new Herzing University campus in Tampa.

tial services.

For more information on the services Phoenix House Florida provides, call 3283960 or visit www.phoenixfl.org.

St. Joseph’s Named As One Of The Nation’s Top 50 Cardiovascular Hospitals

St. Joseph’s Hospital was recently named as one of the nation’s top performing hospitals by Fortune and IBM® Watson Health®. The annual Fortune/IBM 50 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals study spotlights leading shortterm, acute care, non-federal U.S. hospitals that treat a broad spectrum of cardiology patients. The study is designed to identify impartial, actionable and attainable benchmarks for hospital and clinical leaders as they work to raise their own organizations’ standards of performance in cardiac care. “The fact that we are the only hospital in Hillsborough County to receive this award, and that this is our third time on this list, underscores how we strive to provide extraordinary care for our

T & J Painting

When Tony Friedrichsen from T & J Painting finished school, he worked in the painting industry before going to college and earning both a BA in communications and an MBA from the University of Central Missouri. He then took a job in sales before taking side jobs in painting to help support his family. The side projects quickly evolved and he realized that there were more opportunities in running his own business with his wife versus the corporate position he had. T & J Painting was licensed in 2008 and has been in operation ever since.

T & J Painting offers residential and commercial painting, specializing in any size exterior painting projects, large or small. They are fully licensed and insured and Friedrichsen takes an active role in all projects from start to finish and never subcontracts any work. Friedrichsen feels that T & J Painting has been able to rise above the competition because of its pride in professionalism, its work with clients to determine exactly what they want and need and by never assuming

Continued on Next Page

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Business Column Continued................... that it knows best. It will help with project design and layout to make sure that clients are completely satisfied to the best of their ability.

Other services offered by T & J Painting include power washing, deck and dock staining/painting, barrel/Spanish tile roof painting and fluid-applied Tony and Jennifer Friedrichsen, owncommercial roof ers of T & J coating systems.

Painting.

To find out more, visit www.tandjpaintingfl.com or call T & J Painting at 670-8565.

Adam Bantner Is Designated AV Preeminent By Peers

Volume 15, Issue 12

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

By Jenny Bennett

peels, dermaplaning, dermalinfusion and microneedling. Johnson is dedicated to making flawless skin possible with medical-grade treatments, and as a mother of three boys, she knows the importance of achieving amazing results but also the feeling of being pampered. Chelsea loves to educate clients and help them feel comfortable with individualized programs that bring out the best in their appearance as well as their overall skin health.

CJ Aesthetics is located at 12950 U.S. Hwy. 301, Ste. 137 in Riverview and is open by appointment only. Visit cjaesthetic.com to view the services she provides and to make an appointment or call 269-365-3359.

Adam Bantner, a criminal defense Business Retreat For Women and personal injury attorney with Valrico Local author and entrepreneur Law Group, has been designated as an Shannon Carlton invites you to spend a AV Preeminent lawyer by Martindaleweekend with women entrepreneurs for Hubbell. This adds to the growing list of her annual Business Vision Board recognitions for Bantner. He has been Retreat. From Friday-Sunday, January board certified by the Florida Bar 15-17, time will be dediin Criminal Trial Law since 2016, cated to growing busihas been on the Super Lawyers nesses together and Rising Star list over multiple years rediscovering your and was recognized by Florida visions for your profesTrend as one of Florida’s Legal sional lives. Time will be Elite in 2020. AV Preeminent is spent creating systems, the highest peer rating standard processes and content, and is given to attorneys who are as well as diving ranked at the highest level of prodeep to find your fessional excellence for their legal value proposition and Adam Bantner expertise, communication skills new ways to better with Valrico and ethical standards. your life. A masterLaw Group.

Valrico Law Group is situated mind session will give at 3626 Erindale Dr. in Valrico. Bantner you the opportunity to bring your chalcan be reached at 397-3965, or you can lenges to the group and get input from go to www.ValricoLawGroup.com to learn the other minds in the room. After the more about his and Valrico Law Group’s sessions, you will create your vision practices. board with all the fantastic things you have learned, and finally, Sunday mornPamper Yourself At CJ Aesthetics ing will be spent learning to create Chelsea Johnson is the owner of CJ healthy rituals and implement healthy Aesthetics in Riverview and is a licensed habits so that you walk into 2021 with a aesthetician with over 20 years of experiFUEL-filled (fulfilling, uncomplicated, ence and advanced training in chemical exciting and lucrative) business.

For more information and the application, visit https://www.shannoncarlton.com/business-vision-board-retreat/.

Image 360 Mobile Advertising Can Bring Holiday Cheer

Image 360 is Tampa Bay’s premier LED digital mobile advertising truck company. The digital mobile billboard trucks bring innovation and excitement along with the newest technology to any advertising campaign. It is the solution to ensure that you reach the widest audience for your event or campaign, whether it’s an advertisement, concert, conference or fundraising drive. At this time of year, it can also be used to bring holiday cheer to any event or to help celebrate. The screens can be used to play holiday movies, music or family pictures, including outside the homes of loved ones who have been socially distancing.

For more information on Image 360 mobile digital billboards, visit www.image360yborcity.com or call 8007446.

A Party 2 Remember Celebrates 16Year Anniversary

A Party 2 Remember is a traveling business specializing in a variety of quality bounce houses and inflatable rentals for children’s parties and all types of family-friendly events. No event is too big or too small. A Party 2 Remember is reliable, prompt and professional, and its equipment is cleaned and sanitized after each use. Along with inflatables, A Party 2 Remember now also offers table and chair rentals, characters and entertainers as well as outdoor movies.

For more information, visit www.aparty2remember.net or call 2252622.

Desarden Accounting Services, Inc

Do you need help with payroll? Or are you looking to achieve your financial goals without being exposed to unreasonable risk? Desarden Accounting Services, Inc has the necessary assistance you need. For over 16 years, Desarden Accounting Services has provided reliable support for the following accounting services; bookkeeping, payroll, notary, power of attorney, IRS representation, audits, tax returns and more.

Desarden Accounting Services dedicates its time to help clients by providing the right information and knows that finance is a sensitive subject, so it will make sure to create an environment built on honesty and trust where you will feel respected and secured.

For more information visit riverviewaccountingservices.com, email desardenservices@gmail.com or call 786 234-8260.

Valrico Business Owner Creates Products That Kill COVID-19

Don Bethel, owner of DnB Products, offers a line of products that have proven effective against COVID-19. As part of its Germ Shield product line, DnB Products recently introduced the Germ Shield Disinfectant Fogger. The Germ Shield Disinfectant Fogger is a single-use aerosol can that dispenses a light mist of disinfectant into the air which spreads through the space and onto surfaces, effectively disinfecting the entire area.

The air and surfaces are left clean and deodorized. The Germ Shield line of products kill 99.9 percent of germs and were developed for use in industries such as healthcare, education and public transportation. They are currently being used by the Tampa Police Department and the City of Tampa.

For more information about the Germ Shield Disinfectant Fogger, visit https://dnbproductsinc.com/.

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Get To Know Your COVID-19 Testing Options, Rapid, PCR, Antigen

By Libby Hopkins

With COVID-19 infection numbers on the rise and the holiday season upon us, now more than ever COVID-19 testing is a must. But where can one go to get a test, which test is more accurate and what are the costs?

First, let’s explain the difference between the tests that are available. PCR tests and antigen tests are both diagnostic tests, which means that they can be used to determine whether you currently have an active coronavirus infection.

PCR tests detect the presence of the virus’ genetic material using a technique called reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, or RT-PCR. For this test, a sample may be collected through a nasal or throat swab, or a saliva sample may be used.

The sample is typically sent to a laboratory for testing. PCR tests are highly accurate. However, it can take days to over a week to get the results of a PCR test.

Antigen tests detect specific proteins on the surface of the coronavirus.

These are rapid tests because you get your results in less than an hour. “This is a test that does not take longer than 15 minutes,” said Dr. Sonia Ruiz of Bloomingdale Pediatric Associates. “It’s done in-house. I charge $50 for this test and I offer it to anyone needing a rapid COVID test.”

If you’d rather do your COVID test in the privacy of your own home, Quest

There are multiple COVID-19 testing options in our area.

Diagnostics can send a test to your home. “Accessible, high-quality COVID19 diagnostic testing is essential to containing the spread of COVID-19,” said Jay Wohlgemuth, MD, senior vice president and chief medical officer for Quest Diagnostics. “With our new QuestDirect COVID-19 Active Infection self-collection kit, anyone can access a high-quality COVID-19 test with access to interpretation and referral into care from a physician. Additionally, individuals can receive a self-collection kit either at home or at a nearby Walmart drive-through location for the ultimate in speed, safety and convenience.”

BayCare Urgent Care centers also

offer an effective and reliable rapid test that can detect both COVID-19 and the flu. The test is available to asymptomatic people wishing to confirm they are negative for COVID-19 before traveling or visiting loved ones during the holiday season.

This service, which is an extension of Tampa International Airport’s testing site operated by BayCare, will offer a real-time RT-PCR test that detects both the flu and COVID-19 with the same reliability as a lab-based test. Patients can receive test results in 30 minutes.

Due to limited supply, RT-PCR tests will be available on a reservation basis. Reservations can be made using

Save Your Spot® at https://baycare.org/services/urgent-care. The test will not be billed to insurance but will be available as a self-pay service for $150. “We’re looking forward to offering this service for patients and giving them an accurate diagnosis in real time,” said Jim Cote, senior vice president for ambulatory services. “This service will give people a peace of mind as they plan their holiday travels and celebrations with their families.”

Testing Locations: Bloomingdale Pediatric Associates, 4316 Bell Shoals Rd. in Valrico. Call for appointment at 6841881. Testing cost is $50 Get Well Express Urgent Care, 1908 James L. Redman Pkwy. in Plant City. Call 717-7425. Testing cost is $59 without insurance.

Quest Diagnostic home testing.

Visit https://questdirect.questdiagnostics.com/.

BayCare Urgent Care, 10125 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview. Call for an appointment at 605-3200. Costs may vary due to which test you are requesting. Some tests are billed to insurance, while others are self-pay.

AdventHealth Centra Care in front of Target, 10222 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview. Call for an appointment at 515-5814. Visit https://centracare.adventhealth.com.

First test may be billed, self pay starts at $129.

Did we miss anything? Email kquesada@ospreyobserver.com.

Page 24

Volume 15, Issue 12

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins

Plant City Photo Archives And History Center Features Veterans Exhibit

The Plant City tains 10 large panels.

Photo Archives and The exhibit also History Center’s annual displays a photo of Salute to Veterans United States Army priexhibit is currently on vate first class Henry display until Tuesday, Van Demps, who died January 5, 2021. The in Vietnam in 1966 and Plant City Photo was recently honored at Archives and History Garden of Peace Center is an award-winCemetery in Plant City.

The Plant City Photo Archives and There are photographs ning history organizaHistory Center’s Salute To Veterans and the story of Craig tion located at 106 S. exhibit, which runs through Tuesday, Evers St. in historic Mills, the most highly January 5, 2021. downtown Plant City. This year’s exhibit is decorated Plant City soldier in World War a truly special one. Ed Verner, Plant City II. Additionally, the Purple Heart and the Photo Archives president, said, “The story of Elmer Jones Hiott, a member of exhibit this year will contain over 700 pho- the 85th Armored Division who was killed tos of local veterans as well as a special in action in Luxembourg in October 1944, exhibit prepared by Ivan Cardwell, who is also on display. This extraordinary experienced the Cuban Missile Crisis in a exhibit contains so much history. It is personal way.” Cardwell was a United something for everyone to see.

States Air Force staff sergeant assigned The Salute to Veterans exhibit is on to the Joint Chiefs of Staff and working display in the Photo Archives Gallery from out of the Raven Rock Mountain Monday through Thursday, 10:15 a.m.

Complex during one of the most pivotal until 6 p.m. moments of the Cuban Missile Crisis. The The mission of the Plant City Photo Raven Rock Mountain Complex is an Archives and History Center is the preserunderground nuclear bunker near Blue vation of the community’s history and herRidge Summit in Pennsylvania that has itage through the collection and preservabeen called an “underground Pentagon.” tion of the community’s photographs and His exhibit is based on those moments documents. and the crucial story of the unfolding of Visit www.plantcityphotoarchives.org the Cuban Missile Crisis. The exhibit con- or call 754-1578.

Notice Under Fictitious Name Law Pursuant to Section 865.09, Florida Statutes NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Champion Payments located at 1109 N. Parsons Ave., in Hillsborough County, in the city of Brandon, FL 33510 intends to register said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida Dated at Valrico, Florida this 23rd day of December 2020

Suncoast Credit Union Presents The 2020 Winthrop Arts Annual Children’s Art Show On November place Raven 19, Winthrop Arts Gonzalez, age 5, held a virtual Sessums reception honoring Elementary; and the young artists honorable menwho entered its tion Zoe Annual Children’s Gonzalez, age 8, Art Show. The Sessums show was held at Elementary. the Art Factory, Winners in the located in category of 9 to Riverview, and the 13 are: first place Emaly Martinez, an 11th grade student at Durant High School, entered this stunning art Hannah Hillier, virtual reception piece and was awarded Best of Show at the was streamed live 2020 Winthrop Arts Annual Children’s Show, age 12, homeon Facebook. The school; second presented by Suncoast Credit Union. This year’s reception was livestreamed on Annual Children’s place Elovera Facebook.

Art Show is sponPappas, age 10, sored and presented by Suncoast Credit Winthrop Charter; third place Eme Rose Union.

Abbruzzese, age 9, homeschool; and The Winthrop Arts Annual Children’s honorable mention Hawthorne Murphy Art Show is open to all area students 18 Phillips, age 11, Winthrop Charter. years old and younger. Students may Winners in the category of 14 to 18 are: select to use any medium as well as the first place Amber Thomas, age 17, Durant subject matter. Children from several area High School; second place Jackson schools, including Winthrop Charter and Cooper, age 16, Durant High School; Durant High School as well as homethird place Daniel Lozano, age 16, Durant school students, entered the show.

High School; and honorable mention The Best of Show was awarded to Sean Barry, age 15, Durant High School.

Emaly Martinez, a student in the 11th Jose Cruz Dominguez Guevera, grade from Durant High School, who sub- youth outreach specialist for Suncoast mitted a painting of sunset inspired by Credit Union, served as the judge for this scenes from the Alafia River. Martinez year’s show. Guevera said, “Suncoast said, “I was thrilled for my piece to be Credit Union recognizes that the arts proselected for Best of Show. I had a lot of vide dimension in our lives and give a fun creating the piece for the annual art creative outlet for those with talent or show.” skills that deserve to be seen and appreMartinez received a cash prize of ciated. Winthrop Arts embraces artistic $25 plus several art classes at the Art creativity and that makes our communiFactory. ties a more vibrant place to live.”

Winners in the category of ages 5 to For more information on Winthrop 8 are: first place Raena Thompson, age Arts and the arts education program 6, homeschool; second place Mekaya offered at the Art Factory, please visit McCurdy, age 7, Winthrop Charter; third www.winthroparts.org.

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December 2020

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 25

Photo courtesy of the Bloomingdale girls basketball team

Bloomingdale Bulls Girls Basketball Gear Up For Season With District Final Hopes The 2020 Bloomingdale Lady Bulls are looking to build off one of the best seasons in school history last year, wherein they won 19 games and made it to their second straight district final.

The team’s toughest task will be replacing the productivity and leadership of two senior 1,000-point career scorers, Nya King and Erin Leigh. They are off to a good start, beating Robinson High School 50-33 in their home opener.

The young group will feature six returning players, none of which are seniors, including sophomore Melody Womack, junior captain Kaylie Lewis, sophomore Eva Knauer, sophomore Aleissa Perez, sophomore Kyrstin Wolff and junior captain Emily Seltzer.

The Lady Bulls also have four newcomers, including an Armwood transfer, junior point guard Angelina Aberin.

Aberin brings added experience and toughness to the program, having played a big role in her freshman season, in which Armwood made it to the regional finals. Then there are junior Telicia Comer; freshman dual-sport athlete Faith Wilson, who also plays volley-

The 2020 Lady Bulls’ motto is ‘Together.’

ball; and sophomore Cennya Gaskin, who transferred from Texas. Gaskin dominated in her November 17 debut against Robinson, recording a doubledouble (19 points and 14 rebounds).

Ten-year Head Coach Joel Bower is looking forward to incorporating his new players to the team. He thinks that team chemistry is a strong suit off the court,

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and he hopes that transfers quickly on the court as well while they continue to learn how to play together as a cohesive unit. Bower thinks that his team will have more balance and versatility when it comes to scoring, and that it can come from anybody on any given night.

He is happy with his team’s depth, and thinks they have a lot of potential.

“I think one through 10, we are better than we were last year,” said Bower. “The six kids who were here last year all got better. They worked hard in the off-season and improved.

We have added four new kids to the mix as well. We miss our seniors from last year for sure, two 1,000-point scorers are hard to replace, but I think we are deeper and more talented overall.”

Junior captain Kaylie Lewis is looking forward to team bonding and hopes that it will help translate to a district championship. “I really enjoy the family environment that has been created here,” said Lewis.

Junior captain Emily Seltzer is excited to help grow the team identity throughout the season. “I can’t wait for us to build trust within each other and continue the family bond that this program has,” said Seltzer.

The team’s motto this year is ‘Together.’ “We are in this together,” said Bower. “These 10 kids are starting to buy into ‘we over me’ mindset. This is a motto that we are trying to really live by here over the next three months.”

Page 26

Volume 15, Issue 12

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Local Angler Pens First Children’s Book, Clyde’s Corner Brian Wilson’s passion for fishing is evident in his personal and professional life. He loves teaching people to fish and being out on the water. After moving to Apollo Beach in 2017 with his wife, Dr. Jennifer Wilson, they made sure to buy a house Apollo Beach resident on a canal. Then, Brian Wilson recently published Clyde’s when the opportuniCorner. ty arose, he became co-owner of Bait and Tackle of Apollo Beach. Now, Brian can add ‘published author’ to his repertoire, and you can bet the book is fishing-related.

“We both grew up fishing,” Brian said as he reflected on his time fishing in Anna Maria with his grandparents; he and his wife still enjoy casting a line together as adults. “It’s special to us.” For that reason, when his cousin’s family moved to the area, Brian and Jennifer take their godson, Cam, out to their dock, especially at night when the green dock’s light illuminates a special friend, a large, green snook.

“He’s in the same spot every single night, and we all decided we needed to name him,” Brian explained. “We picked the name Clyde.” Cam’s love for Clyde inspired Brian to write Clyde’s Corner for his godson’s first birthday. He and Jennifer then had the book illustrated and bound as a special present. When friends and family read the book, they knew it

By Amy Schechter

was something special.

With their encouragement, Brian decided to explore publication.

In Clyde’s Corner, readers meet Clyde and his best friend, Warner.

The two little fish go off on an adventure away from the safety of their dock for the very first time. When they get lost, they have to rely on help from Clyde’s dad to return home. It is a story of friendship, of facing your fears and of finding help from family. Brian is even working on the second book in what will now become a series, Clyde Counts to Ten, where Clyde will learn to count an assortment of undersea items local to Apollo Beach habitats.

Clyde’s Corner is a great stocking stuffer or bedtime story for any occasion.

Copies are available for purchase on Amazon. To connect with Brian, you can reach him via email at wilsonsaltlife@gmail.com. He also has copies of his book available at Bait and Tackle of Apollo Beach, open from 6 a.m.7 p.m. daily and located at 6040 N. U.S. Hwy. 41 in Apollo Beach.

Tie The Knot With “It’s Official Wedding Officiant Services”

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Whether a bride idea that they are unitand groom’s wedding ing not only as a couplans include a large ple, but as a family. outdoor wedding or “The bride and an intimate at-home groom can see their affair, their special story differently, so I day wouldn’t be comlike to get both sides of plete without one key the story,” said player—the wedding Giordano. One couple Marriages get off to a flawless start with Mimi Giordano of It’s Official officiant. completed the bio sheet Wedding Officiant Services.

Mimi Giordano, and the bride told me owner of It’s Official Wedding Officiant they met at a bonfire at the YMCA. The Services, helps couples bring their love groom said they met in the woods behind story to life by writing a personalized certhe YMCA. “You can see why I need both emony that reflects who they are as indisides of the story,” she joked. viduals and who they will be as a couple.

Bride Alexandra Karones Seigler “I weave your love story into your knew shortly after meeting Giordano that ceremony, not only for you to cherish but she would be the perfect officiant for her for your family and friends to enjoy,” said ceremony.

Giordano, who has been uniting couples “She met us over coffee and doughfor more than 22 years. She specializes nuts at a local doughnut shop and we in all types of ceremonies, including didn’t feel rushed,” said Seigler. “She was elopements, interfaith, religion-specific, completely genuine and took the time to nondenominational, civil union and really get to know us.” renewal of vows.

Giordano kept her involved in the Giordano’s ceremonies aren’t cookie- entire process of writing the ceremony but cutter; no two ceremonies are identical. also added professional touches to everyShe and her team work closely with the thing. The result was an unforgettable couple to plan a meaningful ceremony. ceremony.

The bride and groom separately answer “She made us feel like she had fact sheets about how their love story known us our entire lives,” she said. “She began, allowing for Giordano to weave was absolutely fantastic.” these stories into the ceremony along Giordano said that with more brides with other pieces to create a narrative that and grooms choosing a private and intiresonates on a personal level with the mate ceremony because of COVID-19, it couple and the guests. If the bride or has put the focus back on the ceremony groom bring children to the marriage, she itself. “It is the reason why you’re having makes sure to make them an intricate the party, after all,” she said. part of the ceremony by speaking words For more, visit www.itsofficialwedof praise to each of them, instilling the dings.com or call 545-8128.

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Page 27

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Take Cross Bay Ferry To Visit The Newly Redesigned St. Petersburg Pier

By Michelle Colesanti

The Cross Bay Ferry the Pier overlooking the has returned to Tampa Bay. bay is Doc Ford’s Rum Bay The Provincetown III, here & Grille. This 10,000 sq. ft. from its seasonal Boston-torestaurant/bar focuses its Provincetown runs in menu on Florida fare and Massachusetts, will continue flavors from throughout the service here until April 30, Caribbean.

2021.

At the end of the Pier, Excited to hear about the the four-story structure ferry’s return, my husband houses a few restaurant and I, along with close choices. On the ground Kids can enjoy the playground area The Cross Bay Ferry has returned to friends in our COVID-19 buband the beach when visiting the Pier. level is the Driftwood Cafe, the Tampa Bay area and is making trips between Tampa and St. ble, recently took the ferry to a casual walkup spot offerPetersburg every day, except Monday St. Petersburg. We were ing ice cream and snacks. and Tuesday, through the end of April happy that masks were Enjoy a picnic here while 2021. required while on board. Two overlooking the water.

The cost is $10 Janet Echelman’s net sculpture, floors accommodate passengers. The We had dinner at Teak, each way for adults and Bending Arc, brilliantly lights up the upstairs section of the ferry is all outdoors $8 for seniors 65-plus, a fine dining restaurant, Pier each evening. (though partially covered). The day we which was a wonderful treat. motion with the wind. military and college stutook the journey, it was not crowded, so it There are a lot of great seafood choices To me, it was most dents. Children under 4 was easy to social distance. as well as other options. I had the mahi impressive after dark. are free.

On the Tampa side, the ferry leaves fish and chips with seasoned fries, which At the entrance of the Pier, you can Once you arrive in St. Petersburg, just outside of the Tampa Convention was delicious. It’s located on the fourth stop for a meal or drink while overlooking there is plenty to do downtown. Over the Center on the Riverwalk. The trip across floor, and the views are fantastic. It will the marina. Fresco’s Waterfront Bistro’s years, we have watched this city morph the bay takes just under an hour and is make you feel as if you are mini-vacationwraparound deck offers great views for into a vibrant community. The Pier, which very relaxing. It crosses the channel out ing on a cruise ship. On the rooftop, kick lunch, dinner or weekend brunch. was rebuilt after years of discussion on of Tampa between Harbor and Davis back and enjoy Pier Teaki’s classic tiki As you stroll onto the Pier, there are how it should look, recently opened in Islands, so there are great views of the bar. kiosks with vendors set up selling mostly July. It is a short walk from where the homes along the water that you can’t see ferry disembarks and you can’t miss it.

If walking is an issue, there is a free touristy items. That area is shaded and from the interior. If you are lucky, you may tram with four stops along the length of possibly protected from inclement weathEncompassing 26 acres, there is a also catch a glimpse of a dolphin. The the Pier. There is so much more, but you er. Beyond that there was a great play lot of space to maneuver and social disferry arrives in St. Petersburg across from tance, as is always a concern to us durwill have to visit and see for yourself. area for youngsters and a beach where North Straub Park.

We enjoyed walking and taking in the you can sit, relax and even swim; a great ing the COVID-19 crisis. Masks are Limited food and a full-service bar whole ambiance of downtown St. family destination. It is right behind Spa requested outdoors and required at are available on board. There is no ferry Beach Bistro, an outdoor cafe serving lim- Petersburg before settling back on the indoor venues throughout the Pier. service on Monday or Tuesday, and servferry for the return trip. ited items, including design-your-own You will notice immediately, even ice is limited on Wednesday and Visit https://stpetepier.org/ for more pizza. Vendors were also selling cans of before you reach the Pier, a net sculpture Thursday. From Friday to Sunday, morninformation. beer and hard seltzers. What impressed called Bending Arc, which Tampa native ing-through-evening departures will give For more information tickets and me most was how nice this area all ties Janet Echelman has created. Bending you enough time to enjoy a leisurely visit departure times, visit www.thecrossbaytogether in its simplicity.

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Page 28

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 15, Issue 12