Brandon/Winthrop
21
July 2021
Volume 16, Issue 7
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CELEBRATING 19 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FIRE RESCUE STATION 45 BREAKS GROUND IN BRANDON
KOPLIN RETURNS AS PRINCIPAL TO LEAD 60-YEAR LEGACY AT BROOKER ELEMENTARY
By Kate Quesada
By Tatiana Ortiz
Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners and Fire Chief Dennis Jones of the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue shoveled some dirt during Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Station 45 groundbreaking ceremony. From left to right: Commissioner Gwen Myers, Commissioner Kimberly Overman, County Administrator Bonnie Wise, Fire Chief Dennis Jones, Commissioner Harry Cohen and Commissioner Mariella Smith.
shifts of firefighters/paramedics, with at least six first responders on each shift. In addition, it will also house a rescue ambulance, a battalion chief and a fire engine. “Not only is the health and welfare of the residents important to me, but also our fire rescue personnel,” Jones said. “They put their lives on the line every day to care for the citizens.” Commissioner Harry Cohen from District 1 stated that this groundbreaking for Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Station 45 demonstrates the county’s commitment to protect the lives and property of residents, businesses and visitors. He also mentioned that the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue responds to well over 100,000 calls a year. “This facility will greatly benefit the thriving central Brandon area, especially the Oakfield and Paul’s communities,” Cohen said. “This station will save lives and become yet another source for all of the citizens of Hillsborough County.” “We are excited to watch this modern station take shape, which we hope will be in operation by late spring of 2022,” Jones said.
Osprey Observer 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, FL 33596
Brandon’s Brooker Elementary School will begin its 60th year this month with a new principal at the helm. Valrico resident Heidi Koplin returned to the school where she first taught in 2006 over the summer and is looking forward to leading Brooker students and families for an important milestone year. Koplin, who was hired by outgoing principal Julie Kelly as a second-grade teacher when she moved to the area from Minnesota in 2006, most recently acted as the assistant principal at Brandon’s Mintz Elementary for two years and held the same role at Thompson Elementary in Ruskin before that. She also worked as a math coach at Mintz from 2012-2014. “I am so excited to be back [at] Brooker,” said Koplin. “One of my first stops when I came back to campus was my old classroom. It has been wonderful to be somewhere familiar with so many welcoming faces.” Growing up in a small town in Minnesota, Koplin learned the importance of community and education. Her father-in-law taught in her high school and her own father was a community college teacher. “Brooker has such a strong sense of community,” she said. “Everyone knows someone who went to Brooker and people are so proud of their school.” Koplin plans to focus on increasing the technology available to Brooker students
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With shovels in hand and hard hats on their heads, Fire Chief Dennis Jones of the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue along with members of the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) joined together as dirt was tossed during the groundbreaking ceremony of the new Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Station 45, located in central Brandon at 307 Pauls Drive. As one of the busiest and fastest-growing parts of the county, this new station will help fire rescue reduce response times within that critical period of need. In fact, Jones mentioned that it is experiencing record call increase, which would be the largest in the history of the department. “We need a station to keep up with the capacity and call volume,” Jones said. This new, modern-designed, two-bay fire station will be the first state-of-theart facility when it comes to reducing the risk of cancer for the firefighters. It will include a clean entryway, which allows firefighters to keep their bunker gear separate from the living quarters. The new station will be home to three
Valrico resident Heidi Koplin was recently named principal at Brooker Elementary School. She is pictured here with her husband, Benjamin, and daughter, Madison. Not pictured is her son, Andrew.
and is already working on campus beautification projects to help the school move into its next decade. In her free time, Koplin is an avid reader, loves cooking and travels as much as possible, especially internationally. Her love for travel began when she studied abroad in France in college and, along with her husband, Benjamin, she tries to plan at least two trips out of the country each year. A visit to Thailand is on her bucket list. Her children, Madison and Andrew, both graduated from Burns Middle and Bloomingdale High Schools and Madison also attended Brooker for elementary school. “It is such a privilege to lead this community,” said Koplin. “Brooker is a gem of a school.” Brooker Elementary is located at 812 Dewolf Rd. in Brandon and can be reached at 744-8184.
7/31/2021
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7/31/2021
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 16, Issue 7
July 2021
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN RECEIVES A NEW ROOF
Individuals from Southeastern Roofing and Construction installing a new roof for U.S. Marine Corps veteran James Marshall Jr. and his wife.
The sound of hammering resonated throughout the Brandon neighborhood where U.S. Marine Corps veteran James Marshall Jr. and his wife reside. Through a partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County Florida, Inc. the Marshalls were selected and approved as the recipients for a new roof replacement; the Marshalls received a shingle roof. James shared his thoughts in regards to his new roof: “We had some issues with our roof and much weighed heavy on my mind with trying to save money, along with it being a struggle for quite a while with the pandemic.” He added, “I am also thankful for the people like this who are looking out for me because I have fallen on hard times.” Individuals wearing bright orange shirts from Southeastern Roofing and Construction, LLC could be seen on the roof with tools in hand installing a new roof as part of the Owens Corning National Roof Deployment Project. Southeastern Roofing and Construction is also an Owens Corning
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ADAM HATTERSLEY PUBLISHES FIRST BOOK, ACCIDENTAL POLITICIAN
By Tatiana Ortiz
By Kathy L. Collins
Platinum Roofing Contractor. More than 275 military members have received new roofs since the inception of this program in 2016. Southeastern Roofing and Construction donated the labor, and the Owens Corning Foundation donated the roofing materials. Ed Kappaz, president of Southeastern Roofing and Construction, mentioned how he felt about his business getting involved with this project, saying, “Owens Corning gives us the opportunity to work with Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough Florida Inc. through this giving back program, which makes me feel good to be able to assist veterans in need.” Habitat for Humanity’s Veterans Initiative became established in 2019. Veterans must meet specific qualifications in order to be accepted into the program that they apply for. Nitza Rivera, Veterans Build and neighborhood revitalization program manager at Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough Florida, Inc., shared what her hope would be for this initiative. “We hope to help more veterans improve their lives,” Rivera said. For more information, visit https://www. habitathillsborough.org. For more information about Owens Corning, visit https:// www.owenscorning.com/en-us. For more information about Southeastern Roofing and Construction, visit https://www.seroof.com.
Former Florida House Hattersley is a vetof Representatives memeran who spent eight ber Adam Hattersley, a years as a nuclear subresident of Riverview, has marine officer in the written and published his U.S. Navy. In honor of first book. The book is tihis father, who voltled Accidental Politician. unteered for a tour in You can get the book in Vietnam while in the print or as an e-book on Army, he volunteered Amazon and from Barnes during the height of & Noble. the Iraq War and Hattersley, a longtime was deployed on the registered independent ground with a U.S. voter, decided to run for Army unit, receiving the Florida House of Repthe Bronze Star for his resentatives seat in Disservice. trict 59. In 2018, he was Hattersley earned elected as a Democrat. BSE and MSE degrees District 59 represents in aerospace engineerresidents who live in aring from the UniverFormer Florida House of Representative, eas of Brandon, Valrico, sity of Michigan. He Adam Hattersley, a resident of Riverview, Riverview and Gibsonton. has written and published his first book, completed his Navy In 2020, Hattersley ran service as an electrical Accidental Politician. for a seat in the United engineering instrucStates Congress, but was unsuccessful in tor at the U.S. Naval Academy. He moved his bid. to Riverview in 2009 and worked for a Hattersley said of his decision to write Fortune 500 company for seven years, a book, “I wanted to give insight to others relying on his data-driven background to who wish to serve by running for office in lead a team responsible for training and their hometown, county or state.” managing hundreds of skilled technicians Hattersley added, “There is a lot more to all over the world. In 2016, Hattersley and politics than meets the eye, and this book his wife, Christie, opened a promotions pulls back the curtain on what it takes to business helping other small businesses decide to run, raise funds to campaign and market themselves. find a pathway to victory.” Hattersley is working on a second book. While in the House, Hattersley focused He is also helping local and statewide poon issues that matter to people across litical candidates who are running in 2022. our community. He fought to lower health You can meet Hattersley at a book signcare costs, protect victims of sexual as- ing event on Saturday, July 24 at the Winsault, honor the service that veterans have throp Arts Art Factory, located at 11267 made to our country and protect public Winthrop Main St. in Riverview, from 5 to education. 7 p.m.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
STATE REPRESENTATIVE ANDREW LEARNED HOLDS FIRST LIVE TOWN HALL MEETING By Kathy L. Collins lative Session. The bills included HB 429, the Purple Star Campuses Act; HB 1399, an act relating to aquaculture records; and HB 1097, the Health Care Licensure Act. Learned fielded questions on a wide range of topics, including gambling, traffic infrastructure, school spending, the health of Tampa Bay and the prison sysState Representative Andrew Learned held his first live town tem. Learned said, “It was great hall meeting on June 30 at Your Pie Brandon. Learned invites everyone who lives in the area to attend and participate in his to see so many people across monthly town hall meetings. partisan divides come together to talk about what we have acState Representative Andrew Learned, who represents District 59 in the Florida complished and the work still ahead for House of Representatives, held his first this legislative term. From delivering tens in-person town hall meeting on June 30 of millions of dollars for new traffic infraat Your Pie Brandon, located at 125 E. structure, to military-friendly schools and Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. District a COVID recovery led by vaccines in arms 59 covers a large area, including parts of and dollars in pockets, we are on a much Brandon, Valrico, Riverview and Gibson- better course than we were when I first took office.” ton. Learned plans to hold monthly town Residents who could not attend in person were able to submit questions online hall meetings on the last Thursday of each and attend virtually on either Zoom or month from 6-7 p.m. He will select placthrough Facebook Live. Learned answered es and venues from around the district. questions submitted online and from those Learned said, “We wanted to highlight Your Pie Pizza on Bloomingdale because in attendance. This was his first year in the Florida they have struggled due to some of our House of Representatives. Learned spon- ongoing traffic improvements. A small way sored three bills that passed and co-spon- we can help a great locally owned restausored 15 bills that also passed. Learned rant through a challenging time as we said, “This achievement made me one build back better.” You can subscribe at andrewlearned.com of the most productive members of the for updates and follow on all social media House.” Learned gave an overview of the bills channels for future town hall opportunities he sponsored that passed this past Legis- happening monthly around the district.
Volume 16, Issue 7
SIX SENIORS EARN LAPTOPS AND SCHOLARSHIPS FOR 13 YEARS OF PERFECT SCHOOL ATTENDANCE
By Tatiana Ortiz
South Florida to major in behavioral health care. The $500 scholarship from the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation will go towards her textbooks. The five other seniors who received perfect attendance would be: Chidiuto Anunobi from Newsome High School, Christiana Dirks from Plant High School, Alejandro Lopez from Jefferson High School, Nicholas Salvo from Strawberry Crest Students from left to right: Corbin Trottier, Chidiuto Anunobi, High School and Corbin Trottier Alejandro Lopez, Rebecca Rodriguez and Christiana Dirks from Plant City High School. (not pictured: Nicholas Salvo). Erin Maloney, department Rebecca Rodriguez, who recently gradmanager of media outreach at uated from Brandon High School, and five Hillsborough County Public Schools, menother seniors in Hillsborough County Pub- tioned that, with the pandemic, a notelic Schools were honored for achieving worthy outcome came about in regards perfect attendance their entire educa- to the students maintaining perfect attional career from kindergarten through tendance. 12th grade. For 13 straight years, these “Although it can be a challenge any students attended 2,340 consecutive year for perfect attendance, one positive school days, totaling 180 days each year. aspect that came out of the pandemic At the Hillsborough County School would be, if there was a need to quarBoard meeting on June 15, all six seniors antine, students could do so in a virtual not only got recognized for their accom- fashion and continue without entering plishments but also received a brand-new the building,” Maloney said. HP (Hewlett-Packard) laptop and a $500 “These students are an exemplar of scholarship from the Suncoast Credit determination, discipline and perseUnion Foundation. verance,” Hillsborough County Public Rodriguez shared how much this all Schools Superintendent Addison Davis meant to her: “I am grateful for the ed- said. “I want to commend the families ucation that I received since my grand- behind these extraordinary learners who parents did not get the same opportuni- provided a strong support system that ty because they are immigrants to this allowed each student to thrive and ulticountry.” She added, “It was also kind of mately reach this amazing achievement,” Principal Dr. Jeremy Klein to attend this.” he added. During the summer semester, RodriFor more information, visit https:// guez will be attending the University of www.hillsboroughschools.org/.
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
July 2021
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HILLSBOROUGH SCHOOLS INCREASES ACCESS TO MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES By Amy Schechter
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The last few years have highlighted the ed financial assistance, the lack of which need for mental health awareness across so often deters people from seeking help. the community. Schools have long been In fact, there are mental health clinicians on the frontline of identification and as- assigned to each area within the district sistance, connecting students and families to work with school-based teams and parwith needed resources. Thanks to greater ents to help families navigate the paperfunding from the state of Florida, Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) is excited to announce additional staffing and partnerships that support the expansion of mental health programs and services. Elizabeth Tanner, supervisor of emotional wellness for HCPS, said, “We’re so fortunate. It’s nice to tell a parent that we can help. It’s not just about academics, we have to think about Thanks to greater funding from the state of Florida, Hillsborthe whole child.” The funding al- ough County Public Schools is excited to announce additionlows for additional counselors and al staffing and partnerships that support the expansion of mental health programs and services. school social workers, lowering the ratio of mental health professionals to work and make appropriate, timely referstudents, which will help make sure men- rals when additional services will benefit tal health avenues are accessible at every students. school. Both virtually and in brick-andThe funding also helps pay for addimortar schools, these professionals pro- tional awareness training for teachers vide general counseling and school-based and school staffs so everyone is thinking evaluations to identify learning disabilities about it in the classroom. That way, educaand possible problems with mental health. tors can identify students who may need Additionally, in partnership with Central support. The spotlight on mental health Florida Behavior Health Network, Hills- is so important that Hillsborough County borough County Public Schools connects Public Schools offers an Employee Assisstudents and families with community tance Program through employee benefits, providers. Community agencies can pro- which includes access to mental health vide additional therapies/counseling and services and support for when employees diagnose mental health problems. These experience trying times. services are available outside of typical In the future, because of the additional school hours, but many can even have pro- funding, the district is organizing a mobile viders come into schools because of their crisis team that can go out to school sites unique partnerships with the district. when students experience severe episodes, Families may be concerned about person- such as threatened or attempted suicide. al roadblocks, such as insurance coverage, Currently, the district partners with law out of pocket expenses or citizenship sta- enforcement for these sensitive issues for tus. Tanner wants to make sure the com- which students may need to be involuntarimunity is aware, saying, “When families ly admitted to the hospital. It is in the best give us permission, we can help them with interests of students and families to have anything that challenges them, whether it a team of licensed clinicians and therapists be monetary or transportation, with priva- to come in, as they are most experienced in cy and grace. We also help to coordinate deescalating the situation and determining when families need more than one type of the best path for the next steps. service.” The funding from the state allows Contact your local school or visit www. for the district to be able to provide need- hillsboroughschools.org/mentalhealth.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
BRANDON TOWNHOME PROJECT TO FEATURE BUILD-TO-RENT PRODUCT
By Brian Bokor
viding private yards, another unique feature distancing this product from your typical apartment complex. Professional property management and exterior maintenance are included without burdening residents with additional HOA and/or Recently, a $71.5M loan was secured for the purpose of developing 360 CDD fees. built-to-rent townhome units in the new Brandon Town Center project. The Brandon People outside of the real estate world Town Center projmay not be familiar with the concept of ect—not to be confused with Westfield ‘build-to-rent’ housing, yet it is a rapidly Brandon, the large shopping mall nearby, growing movement highlighting some im- which previously shared the same name— portant emerging trends in today’s hous- will be a 660-unit townhome-style project ing demand. Recently, a $71.5M loan was located north of Brandon Pkwy. between secured for the purpose of developing 360 Providence Rd./Lakewood Dr. and Pauls Rd. built-to-rent townhome units in the new The development will include 75,000 square Brandon Town Center project. feet of commercial space along with a dog Build-to-rent (BTR), as the name implies, is park, fire pits, walking trails, swimming pool a type of housing where the developer builds and fitness center. The initial phase of conall products specifically as rental units. One struction will be the aforementioned 360 of the fast-growing developers in this niche townhomes with phases two and three to markets their brand as “Rents Like an Apart- follow. In mixed-use projects such as these, ment. Lives Like a Home.” residential areas will typically be constructWhat makes units in these communities ed before commercial uses are developed. different from typical apartment complexEstimates from the U.S. Census Bureau es are upgraded features such as soft-close show 65 percent of Americans under the cabinetry in kitchen and baths, including age of 35 currently rent, with research quartz or granite countertops, stainless showing they are looking for more desirable steel appliances, hardwood flooring, in-unit rental options along with longing for a true washer and dryers along with architectural sense of community. Build-to-rent neighborupgrades like coffered or vaulted ceilings. hoods offer luxury, quality, privacy and conThese lushly landscaped single-fami- venience, allowing the kind of live-work-play ly rental communities offer one, two and lifestyle desired while remaining free from three-bedroom-attached townhome units the long-term financial obligations that acand/or detached single-family homes pro- company single-family home ownership.
Expiration 08/01/2021
Volume 16, Issue 7
LOCAL STEM STUDENTS RECEIVE SCHOLARSHIPS TO ATTEND AN ALL-GIRLS MANUFACTURING AND DESIGN CAMP By Debra Garcia Imagine getting the opportunity to attend a weeklong STEM camp, free of charge. Well, to 60 girls in the Hillsborough community, this dream just became a reality. Every summer, fifth through ninthgrade girls, if they meet the sponsor requirements, are rewarded with a State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) or Hillsborough Community College (HCC) scholarship to an All-Girls Manufacturing and Design Camp, which normally costs $350 per girl. According to Shirley Dobbins, an engineering technology instructor at Hillsborough Community College, the camps both at SCF and HCC teach the girls to “explore technology and engineering and how it fits in with entrepreneurship and manufacturing.” “Campers will build and code robots to solve real-world problems. At the end of the week, the girls will present their creations within a framework of entrepreneurism, innovation and automation. Mentors will speak to the girls and a field trip is also included to a popular manufacturing company,” said Dobbins. The goal of these camps is to teach these young girls about engineering, manufacturing, computer science and digital design. At the end, the girls will have learned to use microprocessors, servo motors and sensors to code a robot.
Expiration 08/01/2021
“Many times, students think that STEM topics are dry and boring, when in fact technology tools can be used to produce fun and innovative products. On the last day of camp, the girls will give presentations about the products that they have created, designed and coded,” said Dobbins. In previous years, these camps have been advertised in local schools, such as Barrington Middle School. Due to COVID-19, last year’s camps were offered online. The same began being offered this year when the camps started on July 12. One of the perks of getting these scholarships is being able to attend the camps free of charge, which really benefits families. “However, the parents are incredibly thankful that the girls have an opportunity to explore STEM using topics that they enjoy without having any financial barriers,” said Dobbins. The camps will be Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. with rotating zones, each with hands-on activities for campers. “The zones are digital design for laser and vinyl cutters, robotics and moviemaking. Additionally, the girls will have a deep dive into entrepreneurship, studying marketing, customer acquisition, design thinking, production and profits. Campers have lunch and snacks, which they bring for themselves,” said Dobbins.
Expiration 08/01/2021
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Karla Marie Carolan, J.D.
As always, we are here for any legal support you may need and wish everyone good health.
By Brian Bokor
traffic to and from Causeway Blvd. and 32nd Ave. S. via 75th St. S. The proposed typical section will be a curb CAUSEWAY BOULEVARD and gutter urban section END PROJECT with dedicated 11-foot lanes £ ¤ in each direction and 6-foot£ ¤ wide sidewalks along each direction at the box culvert. Project Manager Amanda Sotomayor added, “a continuous sidewalk will be provided DELANEY CREEK on the west side of 70th St. S., connecting to the intersection with Causeway Blvd. to the north. The continuous Legend APEX sidewalk is only on one side PEST CONTROL of the road, the west side, as shown in the graphic. On the bridge, there will be sidewalks on both sides to provide any future sidewalk connection BEGIN PROJECT on the east side of the road if Hillsborough County recently communicated plans to replace ever needed.” the bridge over Delaney Creek on 70th St. S. between CauseThe Hillsborough County way Blvd. and 32nd Ave. S. in the Palm River-Clair Mel area of Engagement Hub represents Tampa. the online home for outreach BRIDGE REPLACEMENT 70th Street South over Delaney Creek CIP#: 69200101 Hillsborough County, Florida
PALM RIVER ROAD
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Leonard Roque is an engineed was there for a stateneer who was born in Havana, of-the-art unit that is much Cuba 85 years ago. He has cheaper, smaller, easier always had a thirst for knowlto manufacture and much edge and has always been more germicidal efficient.” trying to look at and decipher Roque’s research showed the unknown. “I remember, the superiority of pulsed at age 10, taking apart an old UVC systems over CW vacuum tube radio and trying Mercury systems in achievto put it back together. Natuing the desired six-log kill rally, it never worked again,” ratio of microbiota (virus, Roque said. “I remember crygerms, bacteria, etc.). “The ing about it and promising DNA of these organisms is myself that any new project, affected by UV exposure I will make it work. That was Micro Zapper Germicidal Unit— as UV light penetrates the The COVID-19 Killer is the the beginning of my search cell wall and rearranges brainchild of Leonard Roque, for knowledge and my vow the microorganism’s DNA, who is an 85-year-old engineer. to never fail again. After all preventing reproduction,” His machine uses UV light these years, I still thrive to Roque said. “An organism to kill germs and viruses like excel.” that cannot reproduce is COVID-19. Roque’s passion to excel considered to be miand the recent COVID-19 crobiologically dead. pandemic led him to create The amount of UV his Micro Zapper Germilight necessary to kill cidal Unit—The COVID-19 a particular organism Killer. “The main purpose is measured in units of behind the design and demillijoules per centimevelopment of the Micro ter square.” Zapper unit is to provide Roque hopes that a compact, mobile, clean, one day his Micro Zapenvironmentally safe and effective way to per will help in the fight to end COVID. “This combat and kill all of the different types of is a new unit with limited exposure to the pathogens that affect humanity, including outside world,” Roque said. “My hope is to the COVID-19 virus,” Roque said. “It was benefit mankind and help the world to get and is the pandemic. I try to keep abreast rid of all pathogens that affect humanity. I of most of the new scientific discoveries. A also want to leave a legacy to my children pulsed ultraviolet germicidal unit has been and the world.” in the market for a number of years with If you would like to learn more about a number of shortcomings amongst them: Roque’s Micro Zapper Germicidal Unit – The size, weight, price, availability, low-kill area COVID-19 Killer, you can reach out to Roque coverage and high exposure times. So, the via email at r2enterprizes@gmail.com.
MAYDELL DRIVE
By Libby Hopkins
$1.65M 70TH STREET SOUTH BRIDGE REPLACEMENT PLANNED OVER DELANEY CREEK
50TH STREET
LOCAL RESIDENT BUILDS A COVID-ZAPPING MACHINE
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70TH STREET S
July 2021
AREA SHOWN
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Sources: Esri, HERE, Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P, NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, (c) OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community
Easement Line
Right of Way Line
Proposed Improvements
Milled and Resurfaced Roadway Refurbished Roadway Double Box Culvert Driveway Sidewalk
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Detectable Warning Surface
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Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics,
Hillsborough County recently communicated plans to replace the bridge over Delaney Creek on Pedestrian/ Bicycle Railing (Steel) 70th St. S. between Causeway Blvd. and 32nd Ave. S. in the Palm River-Clair Mel area of Tampa. These plans, as well as many other transportation projects, are made available Sod for public review on the Hillsborough County Engagement Hub website at www.publicinput.com/ hcengage. A proposed 160-day road closure will be necessary for a section of 70th St. S. from Causeway Blvd. to 32nd Ave. S. in order to allow for the replacement of the bridge due to public safety issues. The $1.65M project is funded by the Community Investment Tax (CIT) bridge improvements program. “The existing bridge was built in 1940 and is considered functionally obsolete with no sidewalks in either direction,” said Sandra Gonzalez, P.E., design manager for Hillsborough County’s Capital Programs Department. “In addition to having structural deficiencies, the bridge has no shoulders and is not striped, carrying a single travel lane in the north and south direction.” Concrete traffic barriers, gutters, sidewalks and road shoulders will be added along with resurfacing the roadway. A continuous detour will be provided rerouting
R/W Varies ( 0. in.) CL Const. 70th Street
Sod Conc Swk
70th Street South over Delaney Creek
and listening efforts that assist county leaders with decisions that impact the future of our community. On this site, results of previous surveys can be reviewed and residents are given the opportunity to share their input on projects in the works. The purpose of these public engagement opportunities is to allow members of the public to review the information about the project and provide feedback during the two-week public comment period. In this specific case, the period ran from July 6 through July 20. Public participation is also made available to anyone wishing to speak before the board, with instructions on how to participate also available on the website. The Board of County Commissioners will consider this closure request during the BOCC Regular Meeting on Wednesday, August 4.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 16, Issue 7
SCHOOLS TO FOCUS ON ACCELERATED LEARNING IN FALL
By Superintendent Addison Davis
This is the first in a series of columns Hillsborough County Superintendent of Schools Addison Davis will be writing. This past year, our teachers, administrators and support professionals were champions for children, providing students emotional support and targeted instruction during a historically unique time in education. Students across the nation contended with distance learning, interrupted instruction due to quarantines and mental health impacts that must not be understated. For these reasons, our team of high-quality educators at Hillsborough County Public Schools will focus on an accelerated learning style rather than traditional remediation when returning in the fall. This proactive approach exposes children to relevant grade-level content while concurrently scaffolding the skills from previous years that students may still need to master. In other words, instead of going backward, we will teach strategically in the present. In the past, traditional remediation may have been successful in addressing learning gaps for students over a summer break, where an educator has the time to review all concepts the student has not yet grasped. But the pandemic has changed the way we must engage students who have what we call “unfinished learning.”
In this upcoming academic year, our educators will strategically utilize data to analyze each learner’s skills and tailor lessons to individual needs. What will this look like for your child? It may mean a significant focus on small group instruction coupled with targeted supports based on individualized student data. Our district will spend professional development time with teachers before the school year begins focusing on accelerated learning. Additionally, we will update curriculum guides to highlight prerequisite skills that students may require, making it a more straightforward process for teachers when they return from a much-deserved break. This critical work will require a growth mindset from our students, teachers and caregivers to realize our success. Administrators, educators, parents and students must set high expectations to close these learning gaps while recovering mentally and socially from the effects of the pandemic. We know COVID-19 exacerbated learning loss, but we cannot fall victim to the remediation mentality. Our students are talented, determined and resilient. Together, we will create collaborative learning opportunities that champion student achievement and accelerate Hillsborough toward a brighter future.
By Brian Bokor, Founder www.facebook.com/bokorscorner Welcome to your July update of new developments in the Greater Brandon/Riverview area. Please check respective Facebook pages or web sites for most recent information. Riverview welcomes the addition of their newest ALDI store on U.S. 301 near Balm Riverview Rd. The Brandon Main Street project north of Brandon Parkway recently secured a loan to cover the initial phase of a two-phase, 660-unit townhome ‘build-to-own’ development. Developers will be building the single-family townhomes with the intention of renting them out rather than selling. The first phase will consist of a 360-unit project to include a pool, dog park, walking trail, fitness center and fire pits, with additional units and commercial components included in phase two construction. On the north side of Bloomingdale Ave. between Providence Rd. and Gornto Lake Rd., several elevator shafts have been constructed as part of ‘Integra Palms,’ a 335unit mixed-use project. Once complete, the 21-acre development will be the home to 273 apartments, 62 townhomes and 2,000 sq. ft. of commercial space. Further west on Bloomingdale Ave. in the Target parking lot, shoppers will noticed a large fenced off area which will become home to the next EoS Fitness gym
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slated to open 2022. In Valrico, the long-vacant Ruby Tuesday location on SR 60 between Valrico and Mt. Carmel Rds. will be demolished and replaced with an Aspen Dental and drivethrough Chipotle on the same site. The much-needed Fire Station 46 in Riverview is expected to break ground in June on Rhodine Rd. With personnel on standby and apparatuses purchased, the new station will house an ambulance, ladder truck and tanker. A unique feature of the station will be an area to decontaminate postfire, eliminating possible carcinogen contamination to the crews and others using the facility. Waterset Sports Complex had plans submitted for the first phase of the 85-acre, county-owned project showing four soccer fields, three covered pavilions, two storage buildings, a playground, a concession building and parking space for 539 vehicles. The Belmont area will see 300 apartments built south of Paseo Al Mar Blvd. near the previously announced 160-unit townhome project adjacent to the Belmont Publix Shopping Center. Lastly, Horizon Apartments submitted plans for a 320-unit complex to be located between Walmart and Serrano Bridge Blvd., north of SR 674 in Sun City Center.
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July 2021
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
DAVENPORT’S DAILY DELIGHTS PARTNERS WITH LASAGNA LOVE PROGRAM TO DELIVER MEALS
By Ariana Pedraza
The goal of this program is to feed as many families as possible. The Lasagna Love program is run on the work of volunteers and donations. Davenport’s Daily Delights loves to be involved and during the pandemic it had its own campaign. It prepared food and delivered the food to people who needed it, with a focus on health care workers and local hospitals. When asked why she chose to have her company participate in the Lasagna Love program and others like it, Davenport explained, “Hunger is a big issue in America and should not be. We can all do our part to help those in need.” Lasagna Love is run off of donations, so any contributions are greatly appreciated in During the last week in keeping LaJune, Peggy Davenport of sagna Love Davenport’s Daily Delights running. If teamed up with teenagers you would to make lasagna to deliver to like to make families in need. a donation Davenport’s company towards lessmakes fresh homemade meals to deliver to paying Peggy Davenport and her team making lasagna ening hunger across customers across Tampa Bay to deliver to families in need. Tampa Bay every weeknight. It partwith these layers of warm love, please nered with Lasagna Love, which is an orgavisit www.davenportsdailydelights.com nization that began making lasagna across the country during the pandemic for fam- and click on the designated Lasagna Love ilies in need. Davenport’s Daily Delights Donations button in the ‘Donations’ secpartnered with it for a Lasagna Love Day tion. The organization is also largely kept once a month, where they work with Mid- alive by volunteers. If there are any middle dle and high school students to help make and high school students who are in need and deliver the food in bulk. The teenagers of Bright Futures service hours, contact get Florida Bright Futures service hours Davenport at davenportsdailydelights@ from working alongside Davenport to gmail.com. She will talk to you and get you scheduled to make food for a great cause. make the meals.
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#HASHTAGLUNCHBAG SERVES FOOD AND LOVE TO THOSE IN NEED
By Meghan Reyes
A new study from end, and a lot of peoPorch shows that for ple came out to that every 10,000 people in event.” Florida, 13.2 are homeAccording to Stiller, less. Forty-four percent on average, 20 peoof those homeless are ple will volunteer for living without shelter giveback events. Volor a steady food supply. unteers will gather This is where #Hashtaand discuss a game gLunchbag comes in. plan for each event. #HashtagLunchbag is Groups of volunteers a humanitarian service will break off into stamovement dedicated tions and begin assemto empowering and inbling the lunch bags. spiring others to reap Once all the lunches the benefits of giving. It #HashtagLunchbag volunteers at the sand- are packed, a group creates and uses bagged photo is taken and wich assembly station. lunches, complete with lunches are distributadditional inspiring mesed through the homeless sages attached, to spread community in the Tampa love and share experiences community. to inspire others. “Our main goal is to “The Tampa chapter was spread kindness through initiated in 2015,” Veronica the community,” CasCasteleiro, #HashtagLunchteleiro said, “We want bag Tampa ambassador, to show people that, alsaid, “When the original though we may not be in ambassadors moved away, your shoes, we still care.” the chapter ‘died out.’ In March of 2018, The Tampa Bay chapter of #HashtaI reached out to Ariana Stiller and the gLunchbag is sponsored by the Kickball #HashtagLunchbag headquarters and we Society of Tampa Bay. A local DJ, DJ Upstarted the chapter back up.” town, is present to keep spirits high and Vanessa Rocha, Casteleiro and Stiller music flowing at each giveback event. are the head organizers of the Tampa The Tampa Bay chapter of #HashtaBay chapter. Each began as a volunteer gLunchbag hosts giveback events every for the organization and later became the second Sunday at Yard of Ale Soho in heads of the chapter. Tampa. “There have been some giveback events For more information on how to volwhere 60 people volunteered,” Stiller unteer or start your event, go to hashsaid, “Tampa Bay Buccaneer Kwon Al- taglunchbag.org/get-involved or Hashtaexander volunteered with us one week- gLunchbag Tampa Bay on Facebook.
Page 10
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
WHAT’S HAPPENING AT CENTER PLACE
By Libby Hopkins
Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association ater Ticket Special,” Owen said. just keeps getting better and better. We are Another fun thing that is happening at Cenexcited to let the community know that we are ter Place is its pop-up programming. Center bringing back our theater programs. We are Place held its Charcuterie School Pop-Up class doing this by having with The Seasoned Katie Adams, local Corner on July 8. It puppeteer and storywas a sellout class teller, join us at Center and a great time was Place. had by all who attendAdams will be doed. “I was so thrilled ing her Save the Rainthat I was able to forest puppet shows host my charcuterie at Center Place from class at Center Place,” Wednesday-Thursday, said Serivan Santos, July 21-22. There will owner of The be two shows each Seasoned day at 2:30 p.m. and Corner. “Cen6:30 p.m., with the Lots of fun things are happening at ter Place and 6:30 p.m. show hav- Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Assothe Osprey ing a pajama party ciation. Pop-up classes and theater Observer are programming is coming back to the theme. “I am super helping me community art center. excited to be back at get my busiCenter Place and performing my puppet show ness known in the Brandon community.” in front of a live audience,” Adams said. Center Place’s next pop-up class will be a From Tuesday-Wednesday, August 3-4, Ad- Mad Hatter Tea Blending class with Regalitea ams will be doing her storytelling show, Animal on Thursday, August 12 from 6-9 p.m. TickSafari Stories. Again, the show times will be ets cost $40 and includes, food, wine and tea 2:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. each day, with the 6:30 blending materials. Guest are encourage to go p.m. show having a pajama party theme. over the top by wearing big hats and fun atThe community has also got involved with tire. “This will be an Alice in Wonderland high helping bring theater programing back to Cen- tea,” said Center Place’s executive board presiter Place. The Osprey Observer, local realtors dent, Ryan Odiorne. “We want everyone to get Todd Allen of Florida Executive Realty and Ker- dressed up and have a lot of fun at this pop-up in Clarkin of The Kerin Group and local attor- class.” ney, Mike Owen are sponsors of Adams’ puppet If you’d like to register for the Mad Hatter shows. “Anything to do with kids and Center Tea Blending class or if you’d like to get at $5 Place is important to me,” Owen said. Through ticket to either of Adams’ shows, contact Cenits sponsorships, Center Place is able to make ter Place at 685-8888. Center Place is located the ticket costs for all of Adams’ shows just $5 at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B next to the Branfor the community. “This is our Summer The- don Regional Library.
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Volume 16, Issue 7
GFWC BRANDON JUNIOR WOMAN’S CLUB IN NEED OF LOCAL SUPPORT
By Annabelle Caraway
Brandon is home pen, we did Zoom to multiple historimeetings and tons cal sites, including of community serthe GFWC Brandon vice; also, a smallJunior Woman’s er scale of the Clubhouse. This annual children’s historical building holiday party and is on the registry brought police and and was built by fire department the GFWC Brandon food. Having busiJunior Woman’s nesses to donate Club in the 1920s supplies or workwhen it became ers to help with the area’s first liclubhouse would brary and health be greatly appreclinic. This year, the ciated to help us building and the get back to runWinners of the Emmy at the Florida Spring group that runs it ning fully,” said Convention. are looking for help. Donna Griffin, past The GFWC Branpresident and curdon Junior Womrent treasurer for an’s Club is highly the GFWC Branactive within its don Junior Womcommunity, holding an’s Club. events and supThe clubhouse porting other services, including partici- is looking for business volunteers and an pating in Super Saturday with Horizons Eagle Scout seeking to earn an award. House, awarding scholarships to local girls Business volunteers are needed to help inand holding a Christmas drive for under- crease rentals of the clubhouse. It holds privileged children. It also supports drives up to 50 people and has great rates. By run by ECHO and Feeding Tampa Bay. renting the clubhouse, it can continue This past year, COVID-19 hit clubhouse spreading history and keep its spot on the rentals hard and activities are just starting registry. to pick back up. The pandemic caused an Also, the clubhouse needs restoration influx of use of the savings account as well. on the outside. This includes cleaning the However, even with COVID-19, the GFWC backyard, power washing the sides, stainBrandon Junior Woman’s Club won an ing tiles, painting the eves and, overall, Emmy, the highest achievement award, at needs more love. If anyone is interested, the Florida Spring Convention. please contact Eva at 300-4091 or email “This meant a lot to us. To make this hap- the club at bjwc.fl@gmail.com.
July 2021
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
WESTFIELD BRANDON ANNOUNCES NEW RETAILERS Staff Report There is something for everyone at Westfield Brandon, especially with the newly announced slate of retail and dining offerings arriving at the shopping center. Adding to the destination’s lineup of popular and convenient shops and grab-and-go dining will be: • FYE, a leading retailer of entertainment and pop culture merchandise. • Charlotte Russe; opening this summer near Books-A-Million, Charlotte Russe returns to Westfield Brandon offering the latest clothing, footwear and accessories trends. • The Pampered Peach, a wax bar that has created a process using speed waxing techniques in combination with a proprietary blend of wax that leaves skin feeling super smooth in less than a few minutes. • DAZ Hijab; started by three sisters, DAZ Hijab offers a variety of hijabs, clothing and accessories for every occasion. DAZ Hijab will open this summer near Apple. • Avis Rent a Car, now open near the east entrance. Avis offers a full-service car rental agency available at the mall. • Adore Cosmetics, which offers innovations in organic skin care products that are mostly powered by stem cells from plants. • Swaidan; with new urban styles, a great selection of jeans, t-shirts, hoodies, hats, belts and accessories, Swaidan has fashionable clothing for all ages. • Mintwist, a transformational juice bar offering tasty combinations of fruits and vegetables in South America. Mintwist juices, waters, smoothies and shots are made with high-quality ingredients at very affordable prices to ensure that everyone can enjoy. • Luxx Vanity, offering luxury vanities to
complete your space. Find everything from luxurious floor mirrors to vanity stations with plenty of storage. • Dream Diamonds; specializing in custom jewelry and luxury watches, Dream Diamonds offers the lowest prices in town for 10-karat, 14-karat and 18-karat gold jewelry. • And lastly, ReBath, the nation’s largest complete bathroom remodeling company, opened its showroom in Westfield Brandon this April near Macy’s. If your bathrooms are outdated and can use an upgrade, Re-Bath can help. “We are thrilled to welcome 11 diverse retail options at Westfield Brandon. The addition of so many national, regional and local favorites demonstrates how Westfield Brandon is a premier shopping center that offers brands and experiences our customers crave,” said Dawn Arvidson, marketing director at Westfield. “We are excited to offer more experiential and service offerings that make the center a one-stop destination for our guests.” Westfield Brandon is conveniently located eight miles east of downtown Tampa at the convergence of three major highways. Serving one of the fastest-growing suburban communities on the Florida Gulf Coast, this property showcases a wide variety of popular retailers and restaurants, including a new P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, Michael Kors, Apple, Sephora, MAC, Fossil, Oakley, Bahama Breeze Island Grille and The Cheesecake Factory. For more information the center’s retail offerings, along with openings and new arrivals, please visit www.westfield.com/ brandon.
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LOCAL ADULT MARCHING BAND GIVES ADULTS THE CHANCE TO MARCH AGAIN By Ariana Pedraza hearsal and 75 people showed up. They borrowed instruments when they could and that year they played in the St. Petersburg Festival of the States parade, and after that quickly organized a second season. About 40 years later, the band has grown up to over 400 people. Candace Rotolo, who was in color guard in high school and is now a third-year member of the rifle line and public relations coordinator in the band, expressed, “I’d never thought I could march again 30 years later, but I got to and I have been so happy to be able to have that shared experience again. It was so wonderful to share the experience with so many people again.” The Second Time Arounders have found themselves among people from all walks of life joined by the same love for the music and marching as well as the comradery that comes with it. The band includes people from all around the Tampa Bay area, as far out as Orlando, and people that travel and stay here in the winter from out of The Second Time Arounders Marching Band and Auxiliary is state. looking for members. The band is not only about Have you ever marched in a band? Maybe but about the people as music, actual the in high school or in college? Do you miss it? saying, “Half of explained, Findeison well, Bill Findeison, a local band director, startmusic, twirling, performance, is band the ed the Second Time Arounders Marching social lives. People the is rest the but etc., Band and Auxiliary because he did too. If find friends and meet. I got married from you have ever marched in a high school or the band.” college band and have dreamed of doing it The band has participated in many paone more time, this is the band for you. around the country, including the Marades Findeison started the band off the quesThe group once visited Dublin, parade. cy’s tion, “What happens to all the people who In fact, they are planning on well. as Ireland have marched in band?” After they gradthis upcoming season. there returning uate, they do not get to march again. He interested, visit secondare you If decided to give ex-band members another for the schedule, retimearounders.org opportunity to be involved in a band again. hearsal dates, to meet the band and to ask He advertised the band in a newspaper for questions. a few weeks with the date of the first re-
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 16, Issue 7
CONGREGATION BETH SHALOM CORY COBB, NEIGHBORHOOD WELCOMES RABBI LEFKOWITZ CELEBRITY, PASSES AWAY AT AND HOSTS OPEN HOUSEStaff Report THE YOUNG AGE OF 33 Some exciting The event will things are happening include a compliat Congregation Beth mentary lunch, music, Shalom of Brandon. games, and more. The group recently “This will also be a announced that Rabbi wonderful opportuniRobert Lefkowitz rety to acquaint yourself cently joined the Conwith our dynamic and gregational Family as varied educational and the new Senior Rabbi. spiritual programming The public is invited which is designed to to meet with Rabbi address the wants Lefkowitz at an Open and needs of the wide House on Sunday, Audemographic that is gust 8 from 11 a.m.-3 representative of our p.m. family,” said Koch. For almost 30 years “And, is our custom, Rabbi Lefkowitz has this will be the time been the Senior Rabbi to learn about the Rabbi Robert Lefkowitz recently joined Congregation Beth Shalom as the new at Congregation Beth Religious school. Our Senior Rabbi. Emeth in Orlando Religious School classFlorida. es are designed to meet the educational “Rabbi Lefkowitz brings a wealth of needs of children Kindergarten through experience to our congregation and is Confirmation. We are continuing our cutalready planning new and innovative pro- ting-edge Religious School curriculum grams that will revitalize our congrega- which has been specifically developed for tion,” said the Congregation’s Toby Koch. Congregation Beth Shalom. During the Rabbi Lefkowitz received his Rabbini- Open House, you will have an opportunity cal ordination in 1994. He has been as- enroll your children in classes.” sociated with Congregation Beth Emeth The public is also welcome to join Consince his ordination. Prior to that he gregation Beth Shalom for in-person serreceived a Master of Arts degree from vices which start at 7:30 p.m. every Friday Teachers College of Columbia University. evening. The services are also streamed He received his bachelor’s degree from the service on FaceBook at www.faceBernard M. Baruch City College of New book.com/BethShalomBrandon. York. For additional information, please conAnyone interested in meeting Rabbi tact the temple office at 681-6547 or Lefkowitz is invited to the Congregation visit https://bethshalom-brandon.org or Beth Shalom of Brandon Open House on send an email to Steve Billor, President of Sunday August 8, from 11 a.m. until 3p.m. the Congregation Beth Shalom Board of at 706 Bryan Rd. in Brandon. Directors at cbs-brandon@outlook.com.
By Laura Tamayo
If you’ve ever physically healthy in driven past the the days prior to his intersection of passing. Many were Bloomingdale Ave. unaware of the death and Providence until a small memorial Rd., you most likewas set up on the interly know Cory Cobb. section where he once Perhaps you don’t sold drinks and other know his name or items. In just a few his story, but had days, it was overflowheard his jokes, ing with flowers and bought the soda he other objects that celsold or had been ebrated Cory’s life. relentlessly comAn honoring for Cory plimented by him; was held on May 29, either way, Cory with over 30 commuhas had an impact nity members attendon many Riverview ing, from the skaters residents. Unfortuof Riverview to the nately and unexWalgreens employees. pectedly, he passed Once coming together, away on May 19 at Cory Cobb, known to many Riverview residents the crowd thanked him the age of 33 after as he sold drinks and made friends at the inter- for being a constant going into cardiac section of Bloomingdale Ave. and Providence emblem of hope, unity Rd., passed away unexpectedly in May. arrest and sufferand friendship. ing a loss of oxygen to his brain. After a speech commemorating Cory’s Cory grew up in Thonotosassa with life and a few anecdotes told by people a brother, Carl Cobb, and two parents, who briefly knew him, yellow balloons Sherry and Carl Hugee, who passed were released into the air and the goodaway in 2018. His aunt, Shamika Cobb, byes that people were unable to physidescribed him as a sweet and funny kid cally say were completed. with a reputation of being a comedian, Additionally, Cory’s aunt held an even saying, “Our family name for Cory open-casket funeral and formal viewing was the ‘Jamie Foxx’ of the family. He on the following Thursday, June 4. loved to act out a lot of Jamie Foxx’s Though there will never be enough characters. He always made us laugh.” events to truly emphasize his influence, Cory’s death caused a wave of confu- Cory will always be remembered as a sion across the community, as multiple wonderful brother, a loving son and Riverview locals reported him to seem nephew and a best friend to all.
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
July 2021
Page 13
HERZING UNIVERSITY OPENS GAME OVER ESCAPE ROOMS TAMPA CAMPUS WITH NURSING OFFERS NEW THEMES & HEALTHCARE DEGREES & MORE By Kate Quesada By Amy Schechter
Herzing University, a not-for-profit, accredited institution which offers in-person and online options for a variety of nursing, health care, business, legal studies, & more is now open with a Tampa campus.
For over 50 years, Herzing University’s mission has been to empower students for success in work, learning and engagement in our communities and global society. Now, with 11 campuses in seven different states, Herzing is a not-for-profit, accredited institution which offers in-person and online options for a variety of nursing, health care, business, legal studies, public safety and technology programs. In response to the nation’s shortage of nurses, Herzing is proud to announce the opening of its new Tampa campus. Jeff Cross, regional president, is so excited for current and prospective students. “There are jobs out here. We need more nurses, and we’re filling that need. At Herzing, students have access to innovative nursing simulation labs with high-fidelity mannequins,” said Cross. “They get to work on real-life scenarios guided by faculty members, so when they enter the field, they are more prepared. Our board exam pass rates exceeded national and state averages in 2020.”
Herzing has graduated over 6,000 nurses nationally, 1,000 from the Orlando campus alone. This demonstrates the quality education students receive when they study at Herzing. Herzing offers a variety of programs, including certificates, diplomas, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees and master’s degrees. Most general education courses are offered online and
academic counselors are available to help tailor programs that meet your schedule with day, night, and weekend classes. You can expect the faculty and staff at Herzing to work with you every step of your educational journey to personalize your experience. Whether you need academic guidance, time management strategies, disability accommodations or access to university resources, your student advisor will be there to help address any academic or personal issues that can impact your studies. Additionally, career services and financial aid are available. Reach out to Herzing’s professional team to explore options best for you. For more information, visit www.herzing. edu or call 285-5281. Herzing University is located at 3632 Queen Palm Dr. in Tampa.
Are you looking for a ambulatory surgery different way to bond center, Jeffrey teamed with your family, friends up with his wife, Robin, or coworkers? Does the a speech therapist by idea of trying to escape trade, and son, Blake, from a locked room with who has a college dea clock counting down gree in finance, to deevery second sound like sign and hand-build fun? Then you need to Legends Escape Room check out Game Over Esin Brandon. The famicape Rooms, located on ly decided last year to Jeffrey and Blake Stone, owners of Game Causeway Blvd., which grow their business by Over Escape Rooms. opened earlier this year. joining with Game Over Owned by the Stone Escape Rooms, the family, Jeffrey, Robin world’s largest escape and Blake, who have room company. lived in the area since “This is the 87th loca1990, Game Over Estion for Game Over Escape Rooms’ Tampa cape Rooms in 15 counlocation offers four diftries,” said Jeffrey. “The ferent rooms themed Rome, Italy location to every last detail with has 27 rooms and Game puzzles and electronics Over in Slovenia has 10 to enhance the experirooms.” ence. Game Over has more According to Jeffery, than 360 rooms built Team Osprey escaped the new the four rooms, Lost and running worldwide. City of Atlantis, Money Philosopher’s Stone Room at Game Over Rooms are often rentEscape Rooms. Heist, Philosopher Stone ed out for birthday parand Haunted Mansion, are showrooms for ties and team building events for all ages as Game Over Escape Rooms North America. solving the puzzles can aid in development “The rooms have been chosen because of communication, problem-solving and they are so different from each other. One leadership qualities. is creepy, one is magical, one is fantasy and Interested gamers are invited to check the last is adventurous,” he said. “Lost City out more about Game Over online at of Atlantis is a Poseidon-themed room with https://tampa.escapegameover.us. The some really cool, first-ever-in-an-escape website offers information about each water features.” room to help residents decide which one The Stone family are no strangers to es- they want to try first and reservations can cape rooms. After founding 13 businesses be made online. For more information, call in the Brandon area, from computer manu- 372-0040. Game Over is located at 10266 facturing to physical rehab, open MRI and Causeway Blvd. in Tampa.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
HOW TO GET INVOLVED IN HEF’S SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE THIS SUMMER By Pauline Derry Hillsborough can find donation Education Foundrop-off bins. dation (HEF) is Along with this, currently holding there are several its annual school other easy opporsupply drive to tunities to help. help students in “The best way need receive a to get involved is quality educato host a drive,” tion during this said Mike Mcupcoming school Collum, chief adyear. This sumvancement officer mer, from now at HEF. through Thursday, “We have marSeptember 30, The second annual Stuff the Bus Supply Drive is being keting materials the group is coland boxes to give held at Westfield Brandon on Saturday, July 31. lecting supplies to businesses who such as backpacks, pencils, want to host a drive and crayons and paper to restock we even pick up the dothe shelves of its Teaching nations after the drive is Tools Resource Center, a free over,” he added. store where teachers from Since the pandemic is Title 1 schools can come and still affecting some busishop for supplies twice per nesses, HEF offers ways semester during the school to help remotely, such as year. holding a virtual school Due to the COVID-19 outbreak last year, supply drive where you can donate a cash HEF had to clear the shelves and give out amount on the website or purchase needmore products than typical because stu- ed school supplies on its Amazon Wish dents could no longer share supplies. As a List, which ships directly to them. result of this, the group needs more help Although the group collects most of its than ever to reach its goal and ensure it donations throughout the summer before has enough supplies for every student to the school year starts, HEF welcomes dohave the appropriate materials to succeed nations all year round and you can find a in the classroom. list of the top 20 most needed school supOn Saturday, July 31, HEF is putting on plies on its website. its second annual Stuff the Bus Supply For more information, visit https://edDrive event held at Westfield Brandon, ucationfoundation.com or contact Laura where you can drop off supplies in its Grucza at 574-0274 or lgrucza@educaparking lot or inside the mall, where you tionfoundation.com.
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Volume 16, Issue 7
July 2021
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
TESSERA OF BRANDON OFFERS HYBRID DEMENTIA AND ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUPS By Anika Shah them on this journey, they become friends.” Many times, the most invaluable knowledge is communicated when the older, more experienced members share advice with the younger newcomers. Andrew explained, “The cool thing about support groups is that those that are in the journey or along the journey don’t hesitate to help others with giving Ms. Jill Andrew interacts with a patient.
Tessera of Brandon, an assisted living community in Brandon, is offering hybrid support groups for dementia, Alzheimer’s or any other type of memory loss. With the COVID-19 pandemic, Tessera of Brandon was forced to convert all three in-person support classes to online. Now, as the world is opening, it will be having in-person, socially distanced groups and online classes running simultaneously on every fourth Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. and every fourth Wednesday of the month at 2 p.m. They will be starting their hybrid classes in June. Jill Andrew, director of community relations at Tessera of Brandon, explained that the support group is for “anyone that is caring for … someone in your family, a neighbor or in your church … that you are coming in contact with that has some kind of memory loss.” At the groups, Andrew, who has been working in the industry for 16 years, “fills their toolbox with tools” on how to care for someone with memory loss. More than that, she expounded that as “we walk alongside
examples of how, for example, utilizing a black mat in front of the door helped their loved one from not going out the door … simple things like that.” When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, most people discontinued their support groups, but Andrew recognized that in these changing times, there is even more of a need for folks to stay connected. In the online classes, the group was able to communicate with people from all over the United States, including Jacksonville and Maryland. Having a hybrid system will allow the support groups to continue to help those beyond the Tampa area. To learn more about Tessera of Brandon and its support groups, visit tesserabrandon. com or call 607-6880 to be added to the email list. It is located at 1320 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.
Page 15
PORTION OF STATE ROAD 60 RENAMED IN HONOR OF FALLEN HCSO SGT. BRIAN LAVIGNE
By Tatiana Ortiz
Tampa Police Chief Brian Dugan, Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri and Sen. Ed Hooper, among others. As of July 1, State Road 60 between Interstate 75 and Phillip Lee Boulevard in Hillsborough County is now designated
Governor Ron DeSantis signing Senate Bill 1716, along with the families of the fallen officers and other officials.
On January 11, 2021, Sgt. Brian LaVigne was killed in the line of duty while assisting his fellow Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Department officers on a service call in Brandon. An individual, fleeing from law enforcement, struck Sgt. Brian LaVigne’s vehicle which caused injuries which ultimately Deputy Caitlin LaVigne stands with her took his life. Sgt. LaVigne, a 31-year veter- father Corporal Brian LaVigne while he rean of the department was one shift from ceived an award at the Alafia River Chapter NSDAR. retirement when he was struck and killed. On June 18, Governor Ron DeSantis as “Sergeant Brian LaVigne Road.” “We are so thankful for this permanent signed Senate Bill 1716, which is an act relating to transportation facilities designat- symbol of the selfless service and ultimate ed honoring fallen law enforcement officers. sacrifice that Sergeant LaVigne made for Sgt. LaVigne along with Dep. Michael Magli our community,” Sheriff Chronister said. “I with the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office and hope that this permanent reminder comMaster Patrol Officer Jesse Madsen with forts the family,” he stated. The two additional renamed roadways the Tampa Police Department were also recognized with commemorative roadway include County Road 611 between Keystone Road and Forelock Road in Pinellas namings in the signing of the bill. “We commemorated three heroes who County now known as “Deputy Michael J. made the ultimate sacrifice to protect their Magli Memorial Road.” And, Interstate 275 communities,” Gov. DeSantis said. “Serving between East Sligh Avenue and East Dr. in law enforcement is a noble calling and Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard in is now deserves nothing less than our full support known as “Officer Jesse Madsen Memorial and respect. These were the type of men we Highway.” “I am honored to make sure these brave need in law enforcement,” he added. Families of the fallen officers also attend- heroes are never forgotten. May God grant ed the commemoration, along with Hills- their families and coworkers peace and borough County Sheriff Chad Chronister, comfort,” Hooper said.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 16, Issue 7
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
July 2021
Page 17
ROOTED IN BASEBALL: YANKEES OWNER CREATES HILLSBOROUGH TOWN By Charles Nelson Here’s a trivia question for you. What Eastern or Southern Hillsborough community has a direct link with the New York Yankees? Well, it’s Sun City Center, the brainchild of former Yankees owner and real estate mogul Del E. Webb. Several Hillsborough towns boast of historically unique characteristics that initially, at least, once defined the community. For most, however, those historical antecedents don’t describe that community today. For example, Keysville is no longer a lumbering community, and Ruskin is no longer a community based on socialist principles. One notable exception is Sun City Center. Webb was a baseball man, to be sure, but also one of America’s preeminent builder/developers. He envisioned a new, self-contained, active retirement community in Southern Hillsborough County based on his wildly successful 1960 Sun City developed in Phoenix, Arizona. He transported those ideas to Florida by creating Sun City Center in 1961. Today, 70 years later, that town remains true to Webb’s founding vision. At first, Webb was skeptical about exporting his successful Arizona model to Florida. He was, after all, a Phoenix resident, and many of his enterprises were ‘out west.’ Yet, because of his control of the Yankees, he was also aware that the northeast corridor had millions of potential retirees looking, perhaps, to move to warmer places. So, Webb put aside his reservations concerning hurricanes, alligators and swamplands and visited a sprawling 12,000-acre cattle ranch between Wimauma and Ruskin, along U.S. 301. He found his site and finalized
munity sparkled for its opening weekend of January 1, 1962. That first week, 41,000 people visited Sun City Center. The speed with which Sun City Center went from empty scrubland in 1960 to a thoroughly welcoming community in the spring of Opening day in Sun City Center, Dec. 30, 1961. 1962 would asSource: HCC Ruskin Historical Connections. tound modern the purchase of 18,000 acres in January struction crews built developers. The 1961. In May 1961, he broke ground on his the brand-new King’s first homeowners, new community and promised an opening Inn in only five weeks. Frank and Milday of January 1, 1962. Yankees Owner Del E. Webb with Joe Success was achievdred Ward, didn’t Webb vowed that any prospective res- able because Webb DiMaggio. Source: Del E. Webb Corporation just move into Photographs, Arizona Collection, Arizona idents would not only find six affordable borrowed heavily from their new home State University Libraries. model homes ready for their inspection on his Arizona communion April 20, 1962; January 1 but also be able to tour and ex- ty. Crews recycled architectural, building they found all the promised amenities alamine a completed, fully supportive com- and community plans from those already ready in place. munity that would include: erected in Arizona, shaving significant Sun City Center was fully established •Paved and named streets time in development. Pre-cut lumber freby mid-1962, and the community has •Electric, water, sewer, stormwater, quently arrived by train in Wimauma, and flourished since that time. Although there and telephone in place the weather for construction cooperated. have been financial challenges and sev•A town center with meeting rooms, Everything was in the developer’s favor, eral subsequent owners/developers, Sun arts and craft facilities, and a resort-style although Mother Nature did have a final City Center continues to thrive as an acpool surprise for Webb threatening, albeit untive seniors-only community, true to the •A new, modern hotel and restaurant successfully, to dampen his plans. dreams of its developer and baseball moavailable for prospective home buyers In December 1961, two weeks before gul, Webb. •A post office and completed shopping the grand opening, a crippling freeze decenter stroyed nearly all the flora that brightened CHARLES NELSON HOLDS A MA DEGREE IN •A nine-hole golf course, and more. the new community. Undaunted, Webb’s HISTORY FROM GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY Webb knew that infrastructure would crews sent out trucks all over Florida AND TAUGHT AS AN ADJUNCT INSTRUCTOR AT HCC (DALE MABRY). HE IS ALSO AFFILIATED have to be operational from the beginning to bring back healthy plants. Gardeners WITH TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER AS A to support a community built far from es- quickly installed those replacements in VOLUNTEER DOCENT, RESEARCHER AND tablished resources. As a result, construc- front of model homes, recreation build- COMMUNITY LECTURER, WITH AN EMPHASIS ON tion to achieve all those promises was ings and King’s Inn. What they couldn’t SOUTH HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY HISTORY. fast and furious. For example, Webb’s con- plant they painted green, and the com-
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
NEW LAW WILL REQUIRE CPR AND BASIC FIRST AID TRAINING FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
By Lily Belcher
On July 1, a new law to make sure it definitetook effect that will imly is stated on there and plement CPR training includes the bill numfor students in middle ber,” explained Superschool and high school. visor for K-12 Physical Committee SubstiEducation Ashlee Captute/House Bill 157 pucci. “We will continue was first filed with the with yearly trainings so House on January 4 that our teachers are and was voted on unanequipped to provide any imously by the Florida updated information House and Senate on and materials.” April 26. The legislation, In order to ensure the which was signed into a CPR and first aid trainlaw by Governor Ron ing is taught correctly, DeSantis on June 21, the Hillsborough County will encourage schools Schools District is workto provide CPR and baing with the American Leslie Wheeler’s class at Nelson Elementary sic first aid training for Heart Association, ColSchool practices CPR. their sixth and eighth let Bobs with BayCare’s graders and require the training for ninth Heart Healthy Curriculum, and Joel Strom and 11th graders. and Charles Sand from STEMI. However, Hillsborough County Schools Strom, who runs the STEMI meetings, is will not see too drastic of a change, as responsible for relaying information about hands-only CPR, heat acclimation tips, and recent heart events and how Hillsborough caring for basic injuries are already taught County Schools are responding and preparto some elementary and middle school stu- ing for similar events if they should occur. dents and all high school students through “American Heart Association donates Health Opportunities through Physical Edu- mannequins and is a huge partner with us cation (HOPE) classes. to help with educating our students each The enforcement of CPR training has year,” added Cappucci. “Eric Stommes from saved lives before. Since many high school the American Heart Association is our disteachers and coaches have been trained in trict support and works with us to ensure CPR, Plant City High School coach Carrie students are educated on a healthy heart.” Mahon was able to perform CPR on stuThe CPR training will be included in the dent Charlie Curtis, who fell into cardiac 2021-2022 school curriculum and open to arrest while running laps in 2014. Curtis’ any students, not just the specified grade story, among others, furthered the push to levels. require CPR training in classrooms. For more information, contact Media “With the new bill that passed, we are Outreach Department Manager Erin Maloworking on updating all our pacing guides ney at erin.maloney@hcps.net.
Volume 16, Issue 7
PEPIN ACADEMIES NAMES NEW CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Staff Report Pepin Academies part of Pepin Acadrecently announced emies’ long-term deit has named vetervelopment plan. It rean educator Monika cently opened a new Perez as its chief opcampus in New Port erating officer (COO) Richey and is in the to oversee its three process of remodeling campuses in Hillsits Riverview campus borough and Pasco with phase one of the Counties that serve expansion set to be students with learncompleted in July. ing and learning-re“When it came time lated disabilities. to choose a COO for In this role, Perez Pepin Academies, we will oversee internal were very fortunate Pepin Academies recently announced it has operations across to have one of the all Pepin Academies named veteran educator Monika Perez as its most qualified canchief operating officer. campuses, includdidates right under ing the Riverview location, and implement our own roof,” said Jeff Skowronek, MST, program and facility expansions. Ph.D., executive director of Pepin AcadePerez has served Pepin Academies mies. “As Pepin Academies looks to unify for the past 17 years. She began her ca- its efforts, grow and expand, I’m confident reer with the schools as director of Pepin that having Monika in this role will ensure Academy High School, then a small ninth- those families and students that need us 12th grade charter school, in 2004. Since most will be well-served by our therapeustarting, in her roles as assistant principal tic educational environment.” and principal, she has been integral to the Perez received a Bachelor of Science in growth of the schools, which now serve communication disorders from the Unimore than 1,000 students across the two versity of Central Florida and a Master of counties from third-12th grade as well as a Education in educational leadership from transition program for students up to age the University of South Florida. In addition 22. to her roles at Pepin Academies, she has “Through the years, Pepin Academies also served on numerous charter school has become a second home to me,” said application review committees to advance Perez. “My love for this school and what educational choice in the community. Her it stands for now drives me to help others service to Pepin Academies and the comfind their ‘home’ in our therapeutic educa- munity earned her Pepin Academies’ Peretional environment. As COO, I now have grine Falcon Outstanding Employee award the chance to help unify our campuses and in 2017. carry this vision further.” For more information about Pepin AcadThe newly created position comes as emies, visit pepinacademies.com.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
July 2021
COMPANY GIVES COUNTY RESIDENTS FREE MOSQUITO-EATING FISH By Pauline Derry
Mosquito Management Services is giving away mosquitofish to Hillsborough County residents until late September.
Although summer is a season full of beach trips, campfires and relaxing, most can agree that a downside to the hot weather is the uproar of mosquito populations. To combat this, having started since May 22, Mosquito Management Services is holding several events to give away free fish to residents in Hillsborough County to help reduce mosquito overpopulation. Mosquitofish are small, freshwater fish, native to Florida that eat mosquito larvae before they reach adulthood. One fish alone can eat up to an estimated several hundred larvae in just one day. They are most useful for residents with intentional standing water, such as ponds, rain barrels, livestock troughs and even koi fish ponds, where the small mosquitofish can access areas that bigger fish can’t. “The fish do all the work and the residents swear by them,” said Chris Wilkerson, senior media relations strategist of Hillsborough County Mosquito Management. The fish require little to no care, only needing to be protected from chemicals such as garden sprays and chlorine. Once you collect the fish and place them in the
water, your work is done. This year, a new mosquitofish hatchery facility was built to promote even healthier fish for distribution. Both the lifespan of the fish as well as the sustainability of the operation will be increased because of this. Every other Saturday until late September, there will be events held from 8 a.m. until 12 Noon for residents to pick up a free bag of fish. Due to COVID-19, all events will be drive-through only, and you can’t leave your car. The next closest event will be on Saturday, July 24 at the SouthShore Regional Library in Ruskin. To be eligible to receive fish, you must bring an ID to the event that proves you live in Hillsborough County before continuing to the next station where you will collect your fish. There are limited quantities of mosquitofish and they are only available while supplies last, so make sure you stop by an event to get your fish before it’s too late. For more information, visit hillsboroughcounty.org and view the calendar, where you will find upcoming events.
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HANDYMAN MILLER, INC. PROVIDES QUALITY HOME REPAIR SERVICES TO ITS CUSTOMERS By Tatiana Ortiz A rare jack of many a leap of faith and God trades and master of quickly led us in the right quite a few describes direction,” Amy said. Jason Miller, owner Handyman Miller, Inc. of Handyman Miller, offers free estimates and Inc., quite well. Jason is insured. It serves the and his family were Ruskin, Sun City Center, born and raised in Apollo Beach, Riverview the area. This famiand the surrounding areas. ly-owned and operatAs part of the local comed business provides munity, Handyman Miller, an array of qualiInc. is always here to help. ty repair services Jason is also a member of geared toward all the Sun City Chamber of home improvement Commerce. Honesty and needs, such as pres- Jason Miller, owner of Handyman great quality work are imMiller, Inc. sure washing, winportant to him. dow screens, gutter Amy shared what makes cleaning, dryer vent Handyman Miller, Inc. cleaning, screen jobs unique, stating, “If we get and much more. a call for a service, we do Throughout Janot provide, we can refer son’s life, he has other local, small and repworked in various utable companies,” Amy areas of construcsaid. “With the employtion within Southern ees that Jason carefully Hillsborough County. In 2004, he start- selected, he made sure that they, too, ed a business doing side work in addi- provide the same quality work that he tion to his full-time job and noticed a does.” need for handymen after being in the In regards to the future of Handyman industry for more than 15 years. Ja- Miller, Inc., it plans to continue what it son’s wife, Amy Miller, mentioned that does by staying small and manageable. her husband made a job change in 2012, It also will continue striving to provide when Handyman Miller, Inc. became es- the best quality and service to all of its tablished. Once he made the transition customers. of becoming an owner, his customers For more information, visit https:// grew through word of mouth. handymanmiller.com. Call Jason for a “We prayed about it as a family, took free estimate at 503-5774.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition your spot.
Granny’s Attic Sale, Dementia Support Groups & More... Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com
Free Kindergarten Readiness Program
Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association in Brandon is offering play sessions through Learn & Play Tampa Bay, a free kindergarten readiness program, on Friday mornings from 10:15-11:45 a.m. throughout July. To register, visit www.learnplaytampabay. org or call 426-7529.
Yoga Classes At Center Place Affordable Housing DevelopCenter Place Fine Arts And Civic Assoment Opens In Mango ciation in Brandon is hosting regular yoga SabalPlace is a new affordable housing development located in Mango, Hillsborough County. The 4-story, garden-style housing community consists of 112 units. There are a number of units designated specifically for those transitioning from homelessness. SabalPlace features open floor plans, kitchen islands, large closets and multiple energy-efficient features. The site amenities include a gathering room, fitness area, splash pad, activity room, onsite laundry, free parking and on-site property management. The development was made possible by a collaboration between Hillsborough County and Metropolitan Ministries, along with their financial partners, Florida Housing Finance Corporation, Chase Bank and Raymond James Tax Credit Funds.
classes. Holy Yoga Flow will take place on Saturday, July 17 from 8-9 a.m. and is geared towards beginners. Hatha Yoga Flow is also on July 17 from 10-11 a.m. and is for both beginners and intermediate yogis. An evening yoga class is available on Thursday, July 29 from 7-8 p.m. Evening yoga is also suitable for both beginners and intermediate yogis. All yoga classes are $20. To register, call Center Place on 685-8888.
Dementia And Alzheimer’s Support Groups Now Meeting
Care partners of those with any type of memory loss, whether family, friends or professionals, need to be equipped with the Valrico Native Gradknowledge to best supuates From The U.S. port their loved ones. A Naval Academy great way to learn and Jessica Jenkins of Valrishare are the new hybrid co successfully completed Alzheimer’s Association four years of challenging support groups which are academic, physical and now being held via Zoom professional military trainand in person at Tessera ing, graduating from the of Brandon. One is an eveU.S. Naval Academy with Jessica Jenkins, recent U.S. Naval Acade- ning group and the otha Bachelor of Science deer is midday. The evemy graduate. gree in Mechanical Engining group meets on the neering and a commission fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. as a U.S. Navy Ens. She is a graduate of (Zoom meeting number 897 6781 0479, Bloomingdale Senior High School. password: evening). The midday meeting is on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Mad Hatter Tea Blending Class At 2 p.m. (Zoom meeting number 869 4044 7508 password: support). Tessera of BranCenter Place don is located at 1320 Oakfield Center Place Fine Arts & Dr. Call 607-6880 for more inCivic Association in Brandon formation. is hosting a pop-up tea blending class with Regalitea Teas on Thursday, August 12 from Chill Cawfee Hosts Well6-9 p.m. Come make your own ness Luncheons tea blend wearing your best Chill Cawfee will be presentMad Hatter hat; best hat wins ing monthly Wellness Luncheons a prize. Tickets are $40 and inwith Dr. Kelly King at Releaf MD. clude wine, food and tea blending supplies. The luncheons will answer questions about There will also be a 50/50 raffle and a gift CBD medical marijuana, ailments that basket raffle. Preregistration and payment qualify, products that are available at disare required; call 685-8888 to reserve pensaries and the processing of state in-
I, Feifei Song (Temple Terrace), hereby renounce the Communist Party of China of which I was a member from 2007 to 2010.
Volume 16, Issue 7
formation. Dates for upcoming luncheons are on Saturday, August 21 and September 18. The luncheons will take place from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Chill Cawfee at 3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. The luncheon charge is $5, which will include pizza from Rosati’s, and space is limited. For more information and a list of in-store events, visit www.chillcawfee.com or follow its Facebook page @chillcawfee.
Executive Director And CEO Of The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority Announces Retirement
After four decades in the transportation industry, Joe Waggoner, executive director and CEO of the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA), has announced his intention to retire in February 2022. THEA is a public agency of the state created by the Florida Le g i s l at u re to provide local, user-financed transportation services that reinvest customer-based revenues back into the Tampa Bay community. THEA owns and operates the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway, Brandon Parkway, Meridian Avenue and the Selmon Greenway. In August 2007, after a nationwide search, Waggoner was chosen to lead the agency. As Executive Director and CEO, he was faced with the challenging task of making the agency financially independent and able to take on projects that would benefit the Tampa Bay region. Waggoner has been a community champion and critical leader in promoting partnerships for multimodal transportation, transit-orientated development and walkable neighborhoods. “THEA is recognized locally, statewide, nationally and internationally as a premier tolling agency with a forward-thinking approach to finding solutions to regional congestion,” said Waggoner. “That’s a result of excellent leadership by our board of directors and hard work by a lot of amazing and talented people. With the next executive director, I hope that the trend will continue.”
citizens of Hillsborough County,” Henriquez said. “I believe the position will further enhance our ability to address the more complex issues we face upon occasion.” You can contact Wilson through a contact form at https://dmz.hcpafl.org/liaison/index.cfm and send a brief summary of your concerns or questions as well as attach documents and photographs.
Granny’s Attic Sale At St. Andrew’s UMC
St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church, located at 3315 S. Bryan Rd. in Brandon, is hosting its Granny’s Attic Summer Sale on Saturday, August 28 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Come out and take a look at its gently used merchandise, including books, games, kitchen items, home decor, accessories and more. It is also seeking vendors for its Fall Craft Fair on Saturday, October 30. For more information, call the church office at 689-6849, email info@saumc.net or visit www.saumc.net.
Center Place Presents Animal Safari Stories
Travel around the world and experience animated folktales about animals that teach us life lessons. Katie Adams’ storytelling show includes mime movement, a variety of rhythm instruments, a beautiful jungle backdrop and audience participation with animal movements and sounds. The stories in this popular show are Anansi and his Six Sons, from Africa; Coyote and the Laughing Butterflies, from the Southwestern United States; Papagayo, from the Amazon rainforest; and The Crocodile’s Tale, from the Philippines. Performances will take place on Tuesday, August 3 and Wednesday, August 4 at 2:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. The 6:30 p.m. shows will be pajama parties. The tickets are priced at $5 each and need to be purchased from Center Place by calling 6858888.
GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s Club Upcoming Events The GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s Club is holding its general meetings in the clubhouse located at 129 N. Moon Ave. in Brandon on Thursday, August 5 and Thursday, September 2 at 7 p.m. Wild Thing Bowling is taking place on Sunday, August 29 from 2-4 p.m. Tickets are $12 and sponsorship of the event is available for $50. Tickets and more information are available at www.gfwcbrandonjuniors.org.
Hillsborough County Property Appraiser Creates Citizen Liaison Position East Hillsborough Democratic In an effort to further assist the public Club Meetings with the sometimes complicated questions regarding his office, Hillsborough County Property Appraiser (HCPA) Bob Henriquez has created a citizen liaison position to help guide citizens through any uniquely challenging inquiries related to their property. Nereia Cormier Wilson, who is also serving as the HCPA’s special projects administrator, will be taking on the role. “Our first priority is quality customer service to the
The East Hillsborough Democratic Club will have its monthly meeting on Tuesday, August 10 at 6:30p.m. All like-minded individuals are welcome to attend the meeting at O’Brien’s Irish Pub & Grill, located at 701 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer will be the guest speaker. Please RSVP on Mobilize or www. easthillsboroughdems.org; for questions, call 677-8300 and leave a message.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
July 2021
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APPLICATION WINDOW IS OPEN FOR STATE VPK PROGRAM By Michelle Caceres The Voluntary Prekin“He was attending dergarten Program (VPK), Head Start in Utah and implemented in 2002 in being able to interact order to give all of Floriwith other children who da’s 4-year-olds access to were at their developa quality prekindergarten mental milestones was experience, is accepting good for him,” she said. applications, and parents Horner said social are encouraged to regisand emotional developter their children as soon ment that takes place as possible. in the classroom enviThe program is deronment is essential for signed to prepare Florida’s growth, including waitchildren for kindergaring, taking turns, sharten and develop the skills ing, expressing needs, they need to become good listening to the needs of readers and successful others, negotiating and students. It includes qualseeking adult help. ity standards for literacy The first step is to skills, strict accountabil- Don’t forget to register your child for apply online and obtain ity, appropriate curricula, Florida’s free Voluntary Prekindergarten a VPK Certificate of ElProgram (VPK). substantial instruction peigibility (COE). This is a riods, manageable class sizes and qualified ‘ticket’ to VPK, which parents can bring to instructors. the VPK site of their choice and complete It is also free to families, doesn’t have the registration process. income requirements or restrictions and is To apply online, parents need an active available to children who reside in Florida email address, a computer, a scanner or and will be eligible for kindergarten in the camera to create a digital version of proof following fall. Parents have the option of of the child’s date of birth and proof of enrolling children in a school year program Florida residency, the child’s social security that consists of 540 instructional hours, number and access to a printer. three hours per day for 180 days, or a sumEarly Childhood and After-School Promer program that provides 300 hours of grams Director Louis Murphy said it’s iminstruction, 10 hours per day for 30 days. portant to reach out to the school you are FishHawk resident Danielle Horner, who interested in and ask what its signup prorecently moved from Utah, learned about cess is for VPK. “The program is based on the VPK program from friends and family. availability and some sites fill up quickly,” Her 4-year-old son Liam is eligible to par- he said. ticipate. She and her husband are explorFor more information about the VPK ing all educational options but definitely program or how to apply, visit www.hillsrecognize the benefits of the program. boroughschools.org/vpk or call 740-7870.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 16, Issue 7
LOCAL TEEN PUBLISHES
TAMPA BAY BIN CLEANERS BREAKTHROUGH CHILDREN’S BOOK FRESHEN TRASH & RECYCLE BINS By Amy Schechter
By Amy Schechter
What were you doand now he plans ing when you were to make writing a 17? Were you eagercareer. His mothly awaiting your high er, Ashley Smith, school prom? Were you could not be more begging your parents proud: “We are to take the car out on over the moon. We a Friday night? Were were ecstatic when you running right from we found out they school to your first wanted to publish it. job to earn some exIt felt unreal.” tra cash? You probably However, when weren’t publishing your you meet Lincoln, it first book, but Lincoln is absolutely real; his Lincoln Smith, a young author, poses with Smith, an aspiring talent is apparent. Daisy, the inspiration behind Lazy Daisy. young author, is living He is well-spoken, this reality. mature and obserAfter joining a writing vant, qualities needed class, Lincoln found his in a blossoming author. passion, and he didn’t need Plus, once he starts to look far for inspiration. something, he sees it His dog, Daisy, became through. He is working his muse, and he penned a on making Lazy Daisy a children’s book which beseries, and next up will came her namesake, Lazy be Lazy Daisy Goes to Daisy. Daisy dreams of New York City, which he being a hero, but there’s is currently drafting. one problem: she’s just so Lincoln and Daisy lazy. She lounges around are available for readday in and day out, eating ings if local schools and sleeping; she cannot bring herself to or home school groups are interested. put in the effort. But what will Daisy do With COVID-19 precautions, they are when a dark figure appears in the night open to meeting at local parks in openand threatens her family? You will have air settings. Lazy Daisy is available for to read to find out. purchase directly from Olympia PublishLincoln partnered with his friend, Tee- ers at olympiapublishers.com/books/ gan Hernandez, who illustrated the story lazy-daisy, Amazon and Barnes & Noble after spending some time with the real (both online and at the Brandon locaDaisy, and soon after Olympia Publish- tion). If you are interested in booking ers picked it up. “It’s a dream come true. Lincoln for a reading, please message his Ever since I wrote this book, I found out mother, Ashley, at ashabee81@hotmail. how much I love this job,” Lincoln said, com.
Have you peeked cleanings and biannual into your trash or cleanings. If you know you recycle bin lately? will never open up your If not, you’re livcans and do it yourself, ing in blissful ignoor if you’ve tried and rance. If so, then been unable to sanitize the colonies of unyour rubbish silos, Tampa identifiable organBay Bin Cleaners makes isms making their it so easy and affordable. homes inside have Cleanings are done the probably horrified day after your trash is you. That’s where picked up, so you can leave Tampa Bay Bin them out empty and wheel Cleaners can help. them back nearly new. The It only takes one curbside service cannot be bag of trash conbeat. You have to check taining cat litter, out its amazing before and dirty diapers, tisafter pictures. sues, spoiled food or rotting produce to spawn thousands of salmoGrant and Catherine nella, E. coli or Ratcliffe, and daughters listeria. With many Hannah (15), Bridget (14), homeowners asso- and Emma (10), own Tamciations requiring pa Bay Bin Cleaners. bins be kept out of sight, your garage or yard may end up smelling like a dumpster. Grant Ratcliffe, owner and operator of Tampa Bay Bin Cleaners, is confident he can sanitize and deodorize even the most disgusting bins: “In this post-pandemic time, cleanliness is so important. We use In additional to residential services, 220-degree water to kill most bacteria Tampa Bay Bin Cleaners is available for and germs.” He and his family are pas- businesses and can clean dumpsters in sionate about health, with Jack Ratcliffe, addition to smaller bins. Tampa Bay Bin Grant’s 75-year-old father, helping to Cleaners proudly serves Apollo Beach, make sure they destroy your dirt. Brandon, Gibsonton, Riverview, Ruskin, Luckily, Tampa Bay Bin Cleaners has a Sun City Center and Wimauma. For more plan that’s right for your lifestyle and bud- information, including pricing, call 399get. It offers one-time cleanings, bimonth- 1931 or visit www.tampabaybincleaners. ly cleanings, monthly cleanings, quarterly com.
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July 2021
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
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Celebrating 40 Years Serving our Community Thinking it’s time for a new roof? Do you think your roof may have wind damage? DO NOT REPLACE YOUR ROOF WITHOUT LETTING US TAKE A LOOK!
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Top Producer 2002 - 2020
Volume 16, Issue 7
Brandon/Winthrop
$5 off $50 with Page 27 Peeping Moms Ultrasound Boutique Opens In Riverview Owner Stormy Goodwin recently celebrated the opening of Peeping Moms Ultrasound Boutique in Riverview. Peeping Moms Ultrasound Boutique strives to be the most up-to-date, relaxing and intimate atmosphere for your ultrasound experience and give every family a personalized experience to exceed their expectations. It provides an upscale and relaxing environment for expecting moms and families to come together and create those very important bonds, essentially creating a womb with a view. Peeping Moms Ultrasound Boutique is located in the Riverview Professional Park at 6320 U.S. 301 and is directly behind the Home Depot. For more information, visit www.peepingmomsultrasoundboutique.com or contact 647-9099. Expert Mediator Helps To Turn Conflict Into Collaboration And Protect Privacy Are you contemplating a divorce or adversarial lawsuit but don’t want the great expense, loss of privacy or extreme stress? Mari Frank, Esq. (Ca), Florida Supreme Court mediator for family and circuit court, will empower you to turn conflict into collaboration to protect your privacy and your pocketbook. With 35 years of legal experience helping people resolve conflict (divorce, business, workplace, etc.), she will help you avoid confrontational depositions, adversarial court hearings, embarrassing privacy
phone, email or text. Elite Pediatric Healthcare is located at 673 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. For information, visit www.elitepedshealth.com or call 219-8876. Missy’s Ink Moves To New Location In Valrico Missy Duncan, owner of Missy’s Ink, recently moved to a new locaintrusions and high-priced tion. Missy’s Ink specializes in brows, Mari Frank, Esq. (Ca), court battles. Florida Supreme Court eyes and lips to make women feel For more information and mediator for family and beautiful from the outside in with a free consultation, call 331circuit court. the help of permanent makeup that 3879 or visit www.marifrank. d e a t h , won’t smudge, smear or wipe off. com. Her office is located at 411 Apollo Missy Duncan, owner of Missy’s Ink, prepar- Missy believes that life may not alslip and Beach Blvd. in Apollo Beach. ing to celebrate her new location opening. fall, imways be perfect, but your makeup migration defense and criminal defense. can be. A graduate of the Beauty and Health The Reyes Firm, Personal Injury LawThe Reyes Firm is located at 4730 N. TamInstitute in Tampa, Duncan is certified in all yers pa St., Ste. 250 in Tampa. Additional inforthree methods of permanent makeup appliSpeaking with an experienced personal mation can be found at www.thereyesfirm. cation. injury lawyer can only help strengthen your Missy’s Ink is located at 3117 Lithia case as you demand justice for your injuries com, by calling 833-422-3329 or by following on Facebook @TheReyesFirm. Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. For more informafrom any liable parties. The Reyes Firm helps tion, visit missysink.com or call 659-0648. individuals and families by providing excepElite Pediatric Healthcare tional legal representaOpens In Brandon RV Technician Joins Mobile RV Repair tion, regardless of legal Elite Pediatric Healthcare recently And Services dilemma. This is achieved opened its brand-new facility and is Mobile RV Repair and Services has added through diligent reprereinventing pediatric care. Coupling Chris Rimes as an RV service technician to sentation, zealous adexpert care with a modern experiits team. Rimes has 20 years of experience in vocacy and constant ence, it can help with all the tradithe remodel and building industry, including communication. It untional pediatric health care services three years at Camping World, and his spederstands that being and more. Everything from well viscialty is finish carpentry and electrical sysinvolved in any kind of its, sick visits, sports and camp phystems. Rimes joins Julia Coheley, master RV legal matter is stressful icals to specialty care coordination, all by service technician. and provides compassion and understanding Mobile RV Repair and Services technicians to each of its clients. Services offered by The offering a simple, all-inclusive membership with no deductibles, co-pays or limitations are licensed and insured; it travels to your Reyes Firm include personal injury, wrongful and direct access to your child’s provider by RV for maintenance, repairs, replacements,
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
BUSINESS COLUMN CONTINUED... upgrades and renovations. It will also do prepurchase, return to service and warranty inspections. Mobile RV Repair and Services is located at 918 Silver Palm Way in Apollo Beach. For more information, visit www. mobilervrepairandservices.com or call 7539303. Mom & Me Networking Group - Mompreneurs Hosts First Event A new kid-friendly networking group for moms of young children who are business owners and/or entrepreneurs, Mom & Me Networking Group - Mompreneurs, is starting. The idea is that they will meet up a few times a month, with the day and time fluctuating to help accommodate numerous schedules, but all children of all ages and abilities are always welcome. Learn more by joining the Facebook group @Mom & Me Networking – Mompreneurs. Bryan Hindman Electric Breaks Ground On New Location In Riverview The mission of Bryan Hindman Electric is to lead the electrical service industry in providing homeowners, business owners and property managers with exceptional work. The team achieves this by working with contractors, realtors, HOAs and others, but its passion is working directly with homeowners. The Bryan Hindman Electric team is made up of family, friends and team members who are training with them. It is able to create a smooth customer experience from the first phone call to your final walk-through. All electrical services are offered, including new installations, remodels and additions, repairs, upgrades, docks, exterior lighting, surge protectors and more. To better achieve this, it has recently broken ground on a brand-new location on Carr Rd. in Riverview. Additional information can be found on its website at www.bryanhindmanelectric.com, by following on Facebook @BryanHindmanElectricLLC or by calling 672-4048. Tampa Babe Beauty Offers Customizable Lash Extensions Eyelash extension application is the art of applying individual synthetic eyelashes to your natural eyelashes one by one to create a new look. Whether you are looking to create a dramatic difference with a full set of glam lashes or wanting to keep your look more natural, eyelash extensions are completely customizable to fit your desired style. Owner Kami Elrod has been lashing for over three years and her perfectionism to her craft and dedication to making her clients 100 percent satisfied is what she believes sets her apart from other lash technicians. Bring this article to your first lash appointment with Tampa Babe Beuty and you will receive 25 percent off. Tampa Babe Beauty is located at 3117 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico, inside Missy’s Ink. For more information, visit www.tampababebeauty.com or follow it on Facebook or Instagram @tampababebeauty. Concealed Carry And Home Defense Fundamentals Class Simon Firearm & Family Safety Training is offering a concealed carry and home defense fundamentals class on Saturday, August 14. It also offers a range of training classes, including children’s gun safety and countering the mass shooter threat. For additional information on training classes and to register for an event, contact
James Simon at besafe@simonsafetytraining.com or call 363-7576. Sprouts Farmers Market Is Coming Soon To Brandon And Hiring Staff Sprouts Farmers Market will open a new store at 11339 Causeway Blvd. in Brandon on Wednesday, September 1 at 7 a.m. Sprouts welcomes shoppers with a farmers market experience and open layout featuring fresh produce, innovative, seasonal and attribute-driven products such as organic, plantbased, keto, paleo and more. Sprouts inspires wellness naturally with a carefully curated assortment of better-for-you products paired with purpose-driven people. The new location is bringing approximately 100 full and part-time career opportunities to the area. Sprouts will host a virtual hiring event on Wednesday and Thursday, July 21 and 22. Those interested in positions at the new Brandon store should visit www. sprouts.com/careers to view openings and apply. Brandon Dental Care Dentists Recognized By Florida Dental Association This month, two doctors at Brandon Dental Care, which has been part of the community since 1966, will be recognized by the Florida Dental Association (FDA). Dr. Steve Zuknick will be recognized for his service as a trustee. Dr. Rudy Liddell, past FDA president, will be honored as Dentist of the Year. Together, the staff of this great office have worked a combined 423 years at Brandon Dental Care. Brandon Dental Care is located at 413 W. Robertson St. in Brandon. More information can be found at www.brandondentalcare. com or by calling 508-4888.
Volume 16, Issue 7
BIKES FOR CHRIST IS LOOKING FOR DONATION STORAGE SPACE By Makenzie Atkins Do you want to after he started volhelp those in need in unteering, Simmons our community but realized that many cannot find time? If of these people were you have an indoor in desperate need of area that you are some kind of transnot using, donate portation. With biit to an organizacycling already being tion that provides a passion of his, seetransportation to ing all the people in those in need, as our community that the Bikes For Christ needed help sparked Bikes For Christ partnered with the Children’s organization is cur- Board of Hillsborough County to donate bikes to a his creation of Bikes rently looking for a For Christ in 2016. mother and her sons. storage location to The organization store bikes, parts and tools has grown tremendously in in the Valrico area. the past few years and now Bikes For Christ, an orcollects donations from and ganization that works to provides transportation for donate bikes to people in people in Hillsborough, Pineed, is looking for somenellas, Polk and Pasco Counone to donate an indoor ties. Bikes For Christ works space of about 800 square to collect bicycles, parts, feet to be used as storage. tools and frames in order The organization has many to donate them to other orthings, ranging from fully built bikes to ganizations in the area that work to get tools, that need a place to be stored un- the bikes out to those in need. Right now, til they are ready to be donated. Even Bikes For Christ is primarily in need of though it is looking for short-term stor- men’s bicycles, but it will always take any age right now, it may need storage in the donations. future if the location works for Bikes For “If an organization feels like a bicycle Christ and the donor. Donating this space could be life-changing for an individual, would be tax-deductible. they then reach out to us to get bicycles Pat Simmons, creator of Bikes For for people in need,” said Simmons. Christ, described a perfect storage space Bikes For Christ is excited to find a as “indoors, with walls and a ceiling; we storage area that fits its needs so that don’t need AC, we just need a secure it can continue to spread the love of God space.” through helping those in need find transLooking for a way to combine his love of portation. God and the want to change people’s lives For more information, contact Simmons in a positive way, Simmons began volun- at 533-9177, admin@bikes4christ.com or teering to feed the homeless. Not long visit www.bikes4christ.com.
TGH Urgent Care Powered By Fast Track Opens Near FishHawk The growing suburb of FishHawk Ranch and its neighboring communities of Bloomingdale, River Hills, Brandon and Durant now have access to convenient medical care for minor illnesses and injuries at the newest TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track. The new clinic, located at 5465 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia, will serve patients seven days a week from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Walkin appointments are available; however, a FastPass Reservation is recommended. Common illnesses and injuries treated at the new urgent care include coughing, sore throat, ear infections, skin rashes, simple fractures, etc. For more information about TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track or to make a reservation, visit www.fasttrackurgentcare. com or call 925-1903. Kroger Offers Delivery Service In Tampa Area While the e-commerce space grows increasingly more competitive as a result of evolving consumer behaviors, Kroger, one of the most popular grocery stores in the country, is making a strategic play to establish its presence as a leading retailer by announcing that it is offering grocery delivery in the Tampa area. The Tampa warehouse will provide Kroger fresh products and fulfill delivery orders within a 90-mile radius. “We’re incredibly proud to achieve this milestone that advances our position as one of America’s leading e-commerce companies,” said Rodney McMullen, chairman and CEO. Groceries can be ordered online at www. kroger.com.
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July 2021
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA IS LOOKING FOR DONATIONS FOR WREATHS OF REMEMBRANCE
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY’S NEW MINDFUL MONDAYS PROMOTES GOOD MENTAL HEALTH By Kathy L. Collins The COVID-19 “You can watch pandemic has had short videos that a massive effect are relaxing. You can on the residents of get tips on proper Hillsborough Counbreathing or learn ty, especially as about cooking or it relates to their new exercises,” exmental health. Hillplained Hewitt. “We sborough County are thoughtful and understands the mindful about what needs. They have, we offer,” added as a result, created Hewitt. By providing the Mindful Monthe content online, Hillsborough County’s Mindful Mondays prodays Program. motes different ways you can make your mental residents can access The Mindful Monthe program whenhealth a priority but not take up too much of your busy schedule. From chair yoga virtual days Program was ever it fits into their designed to help classes to tips on how to decompress after a long schedule. promote the differ- day. There are various interactive resources for Content will come you to access no matter what day or time it is. ent ways to make from various county mental health a priority. Why Mondays? programs and community partners. For According to Terri Cordova Hewitt, Direc- example read “Paws and Relax with a New tor of Communications for Hillsborough Pet” from the Hillsborough County Pet ReCounty, “Mondays are stressful- here we source Center or “Learn 4 Ways You Can go- the start of a new week. We want- Be an A+ First Teacher For Your Child” ed to have residents to have a nice and from the National Institute For Early Edpeaceful way to start a new week.” ucation Research. Residents can visit the online Mindful The Mindful Mondays Program will be Mondays Mental Health Resources Hub at updated on the first of each month. The www.HCFLGov.net/MindfulMondays and county wants feedback from residents so have access to a variety of free resources that they can provide the content that resto help them find balance in their day to idents want. day lives. Mindful Mondays was kicked off in May, Mindful Mondays offers virtual health which was Mental Health Awareness classes focused on mental health and Month. The county plans to offer the proexercises to reduce stress. There will be gram and content throughout the year to short videos to find your Moment of Zen support residents in making mental health and relaxing nature tours. Content will a priority. also include mental health tips from comMake your mental health a priority munity partners, along with ways county and visit Hillsborough County’s Mindful programs and initiatives can help resi- Mondays Program at www.HCFLGov.net/ dents reduce stress. MindfulMondays.
Volume 16, Issue 7
By Makenzie Atkins
Wreaths Across Legion Post 5: ALA Unit America is a national, 5 at 3810 West Kennedy non-profit organizaBlvd. 33609. Cash may tion which coordinates also be dropped off at the wreath-laying cerepost any Mon, Weds or Fri monies at more than between 11 a.m and 4 p.m. 2,100 locations across Any amount is welcome and the United States, at sponsorships are $15 for sea and abroad. each wreath. With over 1.7 milThe ceremony at the lion wreaths placed in American Legion Cemetery 2020, Wreaths Across will take place on Saturday, America is hoping to December 18 at noon. A create that same kind wreath is laid and the name of impact by the end of of the individual is said this year. aloud in remembrance. VolAccording to its unteers, students and family website, “While coormembers are all welcome to dinating wreath-layparticipate. ing ceremonies each People of all ages come out to remember “The laying of the wreath December on Nation- our veterans by placing a wreath and symbols triumph over saying the name on each grave. al Wreaths Across death, it implies that famiAmerica Day is a big part of what we ly and friends or any individual is letting do, our mission to Remember, Honor and all know that the individuals soul lives on,” Teach is carried out throughout the year. said Bonnie O’Brien from the Cemetery From our Remembrance Tree program to Board at American Legion Post Five. the Wreaths Across America Museum in Anyone who attends Wreaths of ReMaine, there are many different ways in membrance in December is invited to place which you can get involved!” a wreath on a headstone at the American Just as the pandemic hurt many busi- Legion Cemetery. Being apart of the cerenesses and organizations in the past year, mony allows residents to show respect for Wreaths Across America has had a hard the men and women who served. time fundraising for the Wreaths of ReThe cemetery, is located at 3810 W. Kenmembrance ceremony. nedy Blvd. Tampa, FL 33609, 1/2 block in Locally, there are more than 730 head- from Dale Mabry Highway and Kennedy stones at the American Legion Cemetery Blvd. that need a wreath this year. The local For more information, contact Bonnie chapter of the organization is asking for O’Brien at obrienb43@yahoo.com, call help. Donations of any size can be made 810-1727 or visit https://www.wreathsacby cash or check mailed to the American rossamerica.org.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
July 2021
FORMER ARMWOOD HAWKS BASKETBALL PLAYER WINS SPANISH LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP By Nick Nahas In his ninth seaThe Armwood basketball son as an overprogram retired Sollazzo’s seas professional number five years ago and basketball player, plans on raising a banner former Armwood with his name and number Hawks star Adam into the rafters this sumSollazzo won a mer. championship with Sollazzo then went on to his Spanish league play Division I college basclub, Rio Breogan, ketball at East Tennessee located in Lugo, State University. In his first Spain. two seasons, his team won “When the buzzer back-to-back Atlantic Sun went off, it was like titles and went on to play a dream come true, in two NCAA tournaments looking around and versus future NBA Allseeing the fans,” Stars, such as John Wall of said guard Adam Sollazzo was named Finals MVP, recording the Houston Rockets, DeSollazzo. “My wife 15 points, six rebounds and three assists in marcus Cousins of the Los was at the game the dominant 83-57 elimination-game win Angeles Clippers and Eric against Coviran Granada. and seeing her in Bledsoe of the New Orleans (Photo courtesy of Adam Sollazzo.) the crowd crying Pelicans. In his senior year, was an amazing moment, to know that, af- he made 1st Team All-Conference and was ter 10 months, all the work paid off.” named the National Scholar Athlete for all During the run to the championship, sports in Division I. Leche Rio Breogan won the first two bestFollowing NBA workouts with the Atof-three series at home as the number lanta Hawks and New York Knicks after two seed, and won the final championship college, he has spent the last nine years series on the road to close things out. All playing in countries such as Germany, three series came down to an elimination Italy, France and, most recently, Spain. game three. Sollazzo was named Finals This was his second season in the LEB MVP, recording 15 points, six rebounds and Oro league. The season before last, his three assists in the dominant 83-57 elimi- Gipuzkoa (San Sebastian) team was nation game win against Coviran Granada. awarded the championship after the seaIn the playoffs, he averaged 10.6 points per son was cut short due to COVID-19. game, 3.6 rebounds and 1.6 assists. Sollazzo will be back in Spain next “It was an amazing feeling. It just kind season with Rio Breogan starting in Sepof makes you feel like all your hard work tember. This will be the first time in his has paid off, and to play your best basket- career that he will have played for the ball at the most important moments is just same club in back-to-back seasons. With a great feeling,” said Sollazzo. “To be back- the championship win, Rio Breogan will to-back champions and the MVP was just move up to the first division (Liga ACB), the cherry on top of an amazing year and which many consider the second-best season.” league in the world behind the NBA. The Hawks superstar graduated from Sollazzo runs basketball camps in the Armwood in 2008 and has had a decorat- summer and is always doing private lesed basketball career so far. In high school, sons during the off-season. If you are inhe won Hillsborough County Player of the terested in reaching out for a private lesYear, Student Athlete of the Year and the son, email him at campsollazzo@gmail. North vs. South Florida All-Star game MVP. com.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 16, Issue 7
KATIE ADAMS BRINGS MUSIC SHOWCASE HOSTS PUPPETRY AND STORYTELLING TO PIANO AWARD COMPETITION Staff Report CENTER PLACE SHOWS Despite the pandemic uated from Winthrop with social distancing, Charter Academy and Music Showcase hostwill now be going into ed its 14th annual Inhigh school. He enjoys ternational Piano Guild online gaming with in May 2021 virtually. his friends, swimming More than 20 pianists and trail riding. from around the area Also, being judged participated in the anin the state level was nual closed juried event, Saanvi Chinthamaincluding six from Music neni. The 11-year-old Showcase. They submitValrico girl scored ted their auditions online a 31 and has played to a judge who scored piano for two and their performances. a half years. She is The International Pimoving on from LithStudents received their certificates and ano Guild holds yearia Springs Elementaawards at the Music Showcase spring ly auditions around ry School and enjoys recital last month. Picture are: Top row the world with music singing, swimming, River Yebba and Bryson Moore, bottom professionals grading skating, and baking. Row-Saanvi Chinthamaneni and students on accuracy, Faith Hoyte, age Tyler Smith. continuity, phrasing, pedaling, dynamics, 13, auditioned in the state level. She is rhythm, tempo, tone, interpretation, style, from Thonotosassa and attends Freedom and technique. The audition, open for stu- Project Academy and says music is fun. dents of all levels, is a yearly event at Mu- River Yebba, age 13, has played piano for 5 sic Showcase. Students have to memorize years. She was a state candidate and goes and play scales and songs, sometimes as to Mulrennan Middle School and says mumany as 10 each. sic is peaceful. “The Guild’s purpose is to encourage Noah Hoyte, age 13, has played piano for growth and enjoyment of the piano,” said 5 years. He was judged in the district level. Debprad Evans of Music Showcase and Hoyte of Thonotosassa attends Freedom FAOPA. “Auditioning students receive Project Academy and enjoys playing piano the prestige of becoming members of the at his church. 13-year-old Tyler Smith, was Guild for a year and report cards. Stu- also a district candidate and has played dents can also receive community service for 5 years. He is homeschooled and lives credit through the public school system in Riverview. He likes the rhythm of music. and academic accreditation on college apGuild teacher Jean Hackley says stuplications and resumes.” dents get to perform at a higher level and Among the Music Showcase students, it’s a great way for students to be recogBryson Moore of Brandon received the nized for their hard work. highest score in the state level . Out of 35 For more information, call Music Showpoints, he received 33. The 14-year-old has case at 685-5998 or email debbie@mubeen playing the piano for 5 years. He grad- sicshowcaseonline.com.
By Libby Hopkins
This summer, our features puppets, shadow local community will puppets, some Spanish have the opportunilanguage and indigenous ty to go on a safari music with a message of adventure and save animal and nature conserthe rainforest with vation,” Adams said. “This the help of local pupshow was originally creatpeteer and storytelled by Frank Lakus.” er Katie Adams. On Tuesday and WednesAdams is the ownday, August 3 and 4, Adams er of Make Believe will be doing her Animal Theater and she has Safari Stories storytelling the ability to take show at Center Place as her audiences on a well. journey of imaginaCenter Place guests will tion, inspiration and get to go on an adventure edification. She has Local puppeteer and storyteller, Katie Ad- with Adams. “Guests will been a professional ams. Adams will be performing her puppet travel around the world puppet artist since and storytelling shows at Center Place Fine and hear folk tales about Arts and Civic Association in Brandon. 1986 and a storyanimals, that reflect on teller since 2000. She loves to bring puppet ourselves,” Adams said. “This storytelling shows and storytelling to audiences in our show will include a variety of rhythm incommunity and beyond. “I love to inspire a struments, mime, audience participation love of stories, reading, theater and visual and a beautiful jungle backdrop. Children arts, with highly entertaining performances especially enjoy participating with animal that advance the arts of puppetry and sto- movements and sounds.” rytelling,” Adams said. “I am thrilled to have There will be two puppet shows on July the opportunity to be perform in front of a 21 and 22 at Center Place. The first show live audience again this summer.” each day is at 2:30 p.m. and the second Adams will be performing her Save the show is at 6:30 p.m., which will be a pajama Rainforest: Salvar la Selva Tropical puppet party. show to Center Place Fine Arts and Civic There will also be two storytelling shows Association on July 21 and 22. “This show on August 3 and 4 at Center Place. The stowill feature amazing, endangered animals rytelling times each day at 2:30 p.m. and of the Amazon Rainforest and show us why 6:30 p.m. The 6:30 p.m. storytelling show we need to protect them,” Adams said. will be a pajama party as well. Tickets for Inspired by the book The Great Kapok all shows are $5. Tree by Lynn Cherry and with over 15 colTo register for any of Adams’ shows, call orful puppets in a lush jungle setting, Ad- 685-8888. To learn more about Adams’ ams will evoke the delicate balance of the Make Believe Theater, visit www.katieadRainforest ecology. “This immersive show amstheater.com.
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
July 2021
CULINARY SPECIALTIES TAMPA SUPPORTS FEEDING TAMPA BAY BY PROVIDING ADDITIONAL MEALS By Lily Belcher Culinary Specialties ing Tampa Bay and helping Tampa, a chef inspired the community during this gourmet food service, time,” said Music. “God has provided 14,000 meals been good to us. We are each week in June to hopeful that we will always Feeding Tampa Bay, a be able to help as the need food bank dedicated to arises.” serving individuals who In order to keep up with struggle with food inthe increased volume of security. Culinary Spemeals being made to support cialties supplied a variFeeding Tampa Bay, Culinary ety of meals, including Specialties has brought on grilled chicken or steak seven volunteers in addition with soups and other to their four full time emside dishes, that gave ployees and five part time customers a flavorful employees. and healthy meal. “It’s hard work but it’s “We are a wholesale well worth it for the cause,” specialty food service said part company that sells ditime employrectly to local chefs,” ee Rachel said Sales Manager at Haley Alfonso, Breahna Hesse. Culinary Specialties Nelis, Rayna Metcalf, KiE a c h Tampa April Music. era Nelis, and Ava Covelli week, Feedhelp package meals for “We make frozen and ing Tampa Feeding Tampa Bay. fresh hors d’oeuvres Bay passfor large parties and weddings. And we es out the also take recipes from local chefs and rec- meals provided by Culinary Specialties. In reate their items; to help offset their lack response to the support they have providof labor. So, it’s still their same product just ed. Culinary Specialties has received an made from our USDA facility and delivered outpouring of cards and gratitude from ready to eat at their location.” Feeding Tampa Bay customers, Music said. The partnership with Feeding Tampa The meals and donated time have allowed Bay has benefitted both Culinary Special- Feeding Tampa Bay to provide for families ties, which had experienced a decrease in and individuals in need of food during tryorder volume when Covid hit, and Feeding ing financial times. Tampa Bay, which had experienced an inFor more information on Culinary Specrease in food demand as many families cialties, visit their Facebook page or fell victim to Covid-related unemployment. contact Music by email at aprilm@culi“We have really enjoyed picking up Feed- naryspec.com or call 453-3137.
2021.
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MEET HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY’S NEW TAX COLLECTOR NANCY MILLAN By Tatiana Ortiz Nancy Millan is iting www.hillstax.org. the tax collector for Whenever you interHillsborough County. act with the tax collecMillan was elected tor’s office, make sure in 2020 after having to have the correct docworked in the office uments. For instance, for 30 years. Here for a driver license, the are some things you Federal government’s should know about REAL ID requires a list Millan and her office. of documents including In simple terms, birth certificates, social the tax collector is resecurity card, marriage sponsible for collectlicense, if applicable, and ing and distributing two proofs of residency, local property, tansomething that shows gible, business, and your residence in the tourist development county, like an electric taxes. In addition, bill or another stateNancy Millan is honored to have been they process vehicle ment. elected this past year. and boat titles, renew “Since taking office in motor vehicle, vessel; and mobile home January of this year, we have been in panregistrations; road testing, and driver li- demic mode. Our offices were closed for a cense issuance. few months. While the pandemic brought Millan explained, “We are the welcome about many challenges, it also lent itself mat when you move to Hillsborough Coun- to many opportunities to streamline proty. Every person must come to our office cesses and improve our online services. to get a driver license or register their ve- My goal is to continue to improve and hicle. If you own a business or real estate enhance the online user experience,” said you pay your taxes through our offices. Millan. The fees we collect are distributed to fund “One of my missions as the tax collector vital services at local and state levels like is to help educate and inform new resischools, libraries and fire. So, we are an dents. We also want to help those who integral part of the community.” come here from another country with Millan added, “We know your time is language barriers. There are many misvaluable; that is why many of our services conceptions about what documents are are available online or at kiosks located needed. We will partner with the various throughout the county.” There are a few organizations to provide them with the exceptions that require an in-person visit. proper training to make it even easier for These include getting your driver license them.” for the first time and getting or renewing Millan and her staff are here to help. your REAL ID. If you do have to go to the For more information, please visit www. office, remember to save your spot by vis- hillstax.org.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 16, Issue 7
DRAMA KIDS INTERNATIONAL HELPS LOCAL CHILDREN BUILD CONFIDENCE THROUGH THEATER PERFORMANCES
By Libby Hopkins
FUNTAMPA.COM SHARES TAMPA AREA’S HIDDEN GEMS WITH THE COMMUNITY By Libby Hopkins
In 1985, Helen and new Drama Kids O’Grady, a popular together to learn TV actress in Austranew skills while our lia, decided to create Take 2 Performance a completely new Academy classes children’s drama progave Drama Kids the gram using various opportunity to try fun and fast-paced their hand at online drama activities theater performancto build children’s Throughout the pandemic, Drama Kids Interes. In our Take 2 pronational has been dedicated to continuing its speaking, acting and gram, we are able to fantastic programming. social skills. Parents provide the developsaw the remarkable benefits of mental education that our program class participation and classes is known for as well as a source of built quickly throughout Austrafun during a time of uncertainty and lia. It was such a success that it constant change.” was brought to the United States Now, as Drama Kids transitions as Drama Kids International. back to in-person classes, it is dedi“We are both proud and excited cated to teaching children of all ages to be the exclusive U.S. provider of the Hel- new ways they can cope and understand en O’Grady Children’s Drama Program,” said the lingering emotions brought on by the Dulcie Mishkin, director of operations for pandemic. “By providing them a safe space FL Drama Kids of Hillsborough and Pasco to explore, our Drama Kids are free to exCounties. “Today, the Helen O’Grady curricu- press themselves fully through scenes and lum has proved so successful that there are characters they create, opening up their over 50,000 students currently attending imagination and having fun with new and classes in over 1,500 locations throughout old friends,” Mishkin said. the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Drama Kids is gearing up for the fall South Africa, Southeast Asia and Europe. and it is very excited to offer after-school Our unique kids’ theater classes are inter- drama classes. “As we finalize the school nationally known for the creative drama year schedule with elementary and middle curriculum and teaching methods that are schools across the Hillsborough and Pasco great fun and highly developmental for all County areas, we are looking for new areas children and teens.” and schools to bring our program,” Mishin Throughout the pandemic, Drama Kids said. has been dedicated to continuing its fantasIf you are interested in bringing Drama tic programming. Kids to your child’s school, go to www.dra“We adapted to an online curriculum, makids.com/brandon-apollo-beach-riverbringing the joy of Drama Kids classes right view-plant-city-fl/ and fill out the interest to children’s homes,” Mishkin said. “Our survey on the In-School Programs page or weekly classes joined longtime students call 489-5899.
Riverview realtor Tampa and just outside Kerin Clarkin has an of Tampa. This is why alter ego who is a I do what I do with total foodie and loFun Tampa; I want our cavore. His alter ego community to know is still named Kerin that there are so many Clarkin, but instead things to do in Tampa of selling real estate, and a lot of these plache is sharing some of es and things are so the hidden gems of close to them.” Tampa Bay. “I do a lot Clarkin loves getting of fun things and a lot suggestions from his of the time it involves followers about local food,” Clarkin said. places or restaurants “People in Riverview Riverview realtor Kerin Clarkin has an alter they have been to so ego who is a total foodie and locavore. know me as the rehe can go and check altor who does food them out. “I and fun.” love learning Because of his reputation for more about food and fun, Clarkin started his new places or Fun Tampa website. “Fun Tamnew restaupa is your source for food and rants for me to fun reviews from different places go and check throughout the Tampa Bay area,” out,” Clarkin Clarkin said. “We only promote said. “Most of locally owned businesses and enthe time, when courage you to let us know about I go to a new the coolest places to go.” restaurant Clarkin finds all the best places or place and to go to eat, have fun and party, start doing and he does it all for free. “There are so a live video, the owners are shocked to many places in Tampa and we want you find out I’m doing this all for free. I’m to know about them all, especially the not doing it to get a free meal or get locally owned ones, because supporting into a place for free, I’m doing it so their local and being a community advocate is business gets more traffic. It’s all about extremely important to me,” Clarkin said. supporting local.” Clarkin believes we live in the best city If you’d like to learn more about Fun to have fun. “When people say there is Tampa or if you’d like to make a suggesnothing to do in Tampa, I have a hard tion for Clarkin to visit, you can go to Fun time believing them,” Clarkin said. “There Tampa’s website at www.funtampa.com are so many cool and fun things to do in or email Clarkin at info@funtampa.com.
July 2021
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Page 33
BY LAURA MARZULLO
BRANDON ELITE’S 15 GOLD LEADS AT AAU NATIONALS FOR VOLLEYBALL
Brandon Elite’s 15 Gold team showcasing big smiles due to their stellar performance at AAU Nationals.
In the AAU Nationals, there were 56,000 participants, 3445 teams and 171 courts from June 17-29. The AAU Nationals, held in Orlando, caters to teams all over the United States and internationally. Determination leads to success. This is what Brandon Elite Volleyball Association represents. One of its teams, 15 Gold, placed fifth out of 188 teams in their division. For four days, these 10 girls were challenged with fierce competitors who were not going to lose without a fight. The morning of June 24 started with a passionate team meeting as the girls sat
with a 6-0 record. “The closer we get to the championship bracket, the better and more disciplined the teams become. Teams will not make as many errors and we need to control our errors if we want to come out on top,” said Coaches Magaly Carvajal and Estefania Lebron. The girls entered their challenge match competing against a team from Florida. The first set was lost 15-25. The second set was won due to great passing from Mikayla Lastoria, Idara Camacho and Diana Hiatt. The attackers had some stellar moments led by
edge of their seats. The girls were able to fight harder than their opponents. Standing at an 11-0 record, they prepared for the quarterfinal match against another undefeated team. The game was neck and neck, but the experience of the other team gained the best of them. 15 Gold ended the tournament with 11 wins and one loss. One of the players, Fischer, was recognized as an AAU National All Star due to her stellar performance and sportsLeft to right: Coach Magaly Carvajal, AAU Nationals All Star Elaina Fischer, Coach Estefania Lebron and Head Coach Dami- manship. She thanks her Gold Olympic coach and mentor, an Goderich pictured with the All Star award. Carvajal, and her parents for Ella Kahikina, Madison Sofarelli and Alexia encouraging her as an athlete and as a leadGoderich. The third set was close, exciting er. and nerve-racking. Captain and setter Pau“Being an All Star is an honor voted on la Lebron had some great serving runs, ran by the top coaches at the national tournathe offense and was able to find hot hitters ment,” exclaimed Fischer. early. The middles, Elaina Fischer and An“She is an excellent student, selfless gela West, took control of the game with teammate, sweetheart off the court. Howtheir defiance of not allowing balls to come ever, on the court, she is dominant, defiover and ability to annihilate the ball. The ant, strong and brings the heat,” said Head final set resulted in 15-13, another win for Coach Damian Goderich. 15 Gold. For more information on the AAU NaOn day four, the team entered the chamtionals and Brandon Elite, go to http:// pionship bracket. The first game had specbrandonelitevolleyball.com/ and https:// tators biting their nails and sitting at the aauvolleyball.org/.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 16, Issue 7
SUMMER MEANS HEAT AND PROPER HYDRATION IS A MUST FOR THE ELDERLY
By Kathy L. Collins
Heat and proped: You should er hydration go never wait until hand in hand you feel thirsty especially for elto drink water or derly residents. other fluids, take According to the sips throughout National Instithe day, drink a tute on Aging, full glass of with “Too much heat medications, is not safe for have a glass of anyone. It is even water before riskier if you are you exercise, older or have drink fat-free health probor low-fat milk This summer, as vaccinated elderly folks begin to get out lems.” and other drinks once again, they need to remember to stay hydrated and “Many seniors with no added look for signs of dehydration and heat-related illnesses. have received sugar, drink alcotheir COVID-19 vaccinations, so they are ex- hol only in moderation and you should never cited to get out and participate in activities stop drinking liquids even if you suffer a uriagain. Unfortunately, they may not be ac- nary control problem. climated to the summer heat, which makes Some of the signs of dehydration include staying hydrated especially important for thirst, dry or sticky mouth, headaches, older adults,” explained Wynton Geary, cramps and feeling lightheaded. health and wellness manager at Senior ConIllnesses caused by being too hot for nection Center. too long are grouped under the name ‘hy“Proper hydration can also improve perthermia.’ These include heat syncope, well-being, aid in prevention of many illness- a sudden dizziness; heat cramps, a painful es, both mental and physical, as well as re- tightening of muscles in your stomach, arms duce the need for many medications,” added or legs; heat edema, a swelling of the ankles Geary. and feet; and heat exhaustion, a warning It is important that elderly people get that your body can no longer keep itself cool. plenty of fluids every day. Water can be If you suffer from heat stroke (symptoms found in foods, both solids and liquids as well include: fainting, change in behavior, temas its natural state. Unfortunately, people perature of 104 degrees, dry, flushed skin, tend to lose some sense of thirst as they age. rapid or slow pulse and not sweating even Many fruits and vegetables contain water. if it is hot), you must get medical attention Here are some tips on how to stay hydrat- immediately.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
July 2021
LOCAL ARTIST EXHIBITS ARTWORK AT CENTER PLACE OF BRANDON Artist Christopher cards. In college, he Klein of Lithia is prestudied under James senting ‘A RetrospecMullen, a professor at tive of His Art From SUNY Oneonta. Mul1980 to the Present’ at len has work in the Center Place, located Smithsonian and one at 619 Vonderburg Dr. or two of Klein’s cards in Brandon, through are in the collection. the end of July. Klein serves as the There are 71 pieces president of the Branin the show. About half don League of Fine are his surreal work Arts (BLFA). Now (still life with a surreal that pandemic restricaspect), and the other tions have been lifted, half is landscape and members of BLFA are portraits. able to meet in perKlein’s medium is son. BLFA meets on mostly oil, but he also the third Monday of draws, etches and uses each month at Center Artist Christopher Klein exhibited his other paints. Place. A Paint and Take artwork at Center Place of Brandon in Klein draws every June and July. Klein is also the president is held at 6:30 p.m. The day. He mixes in some of the Brandon League of Fine Arts. He meeting begins at 7:30 painting. In addition, encourages all local artists to join and p.m. and a demonstrameet other local artists. as a trained and expetion takes place at 8 rienced graphic artist, he works on pieces p.m. The meetings are open to all. for long-standing clients. He also takes Klein said, “Face-to-face contact with commissions. other artists is important for artists. It is Klein comes from a large family. Grow- good to meet others and get to learn about ing up, being a professional artist was not events in the area. You can learn new techreally an option. However, he never let go niques.” of his love of and talent for art, and over Klein added, “I encourage young artists the years, he has perfected his craft. He to join BLFA. It is a good experience and worked as a 3D engraver and eventually will show you how to enter shows and studied graphic art. learn to network with fellow artists.” Now that he is retired, he is able to spend To learn more about Klein and his art, time in his studio and has entered area please follow him on Instagram and visit shows, including the Florida Strawberry http://www.christopherleoklein.com. To Festival Fine Art Show. Klein has an etch- learn more about BLFA, follow it on Faceing press, and he makes his own holiday book or contact Klein at 516-220-8246.
Assisted Living
REGISTER TODAY FOR FALL ART CLASSES WITH WINTHROP ARTS If you, your child or children 5 and up. teen are interested in Registration for learning to create fine art all of the classes is and artisan-style pieces, available at www. you can register for art winthroparts.org. A classes with Winthrop registration fee of $35 Arts. Classes are held at per family is required. the Art Factory, located Classes are $15 each 11267 Winthrop Main St. with a minimum of in Riverview. Winthrop four weeks. The exArts offers art classes for ception to the price children 5 years old and and number of classes Children, teens and adults are treated like up, teens (in sixth grade applies to the Saturfellow artists when they take art classes with and above) and adults Winthrop Arts. Classes are held in the arts day painting classes (Ceramics on Monday and basket weaving. education studio called the Art Factory, evenings). Classes begin All students for all located at 11267 Winthrop Main St. in on Tuesday, August 10. classes must preregisRiverview. The hours and classes vary each day, but ter. There are no drop-in classes unless othergenerally classes are held during the hours wise advertised. of 3 to 7:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Children, teens and adults can let their creSpecialty classes highlighting painting will be ative side shine. No experience is necessary held on select Saturdays throughout the year and all materials are provided. beginning in September. Bryant Martinez, lead art instructor for Winthrop Arts began offering Basket Winthrop Arts, said, “We have expanded the Weaving classes with Peggy McCarson types of classes that we offer over the years. this past year. These classes will continue However, the mission of Winthrop Arts has throughout the year on select Thursday eve- never changed. We want everyone to feel nings, and through them, students learn to free to come and take classes and learn to handcraft woven baskets. create art with us. We are truly artists creatNew classes that have been added for this ing art with other artists.” coming year includes Comics, Anime and Students are encouraged to enter area art Graphics with Mariel on Wednesdays from shows, including the annual Winthrop Arts 5-6:30 p.m. This class is set up in four-week Children’s Art Show, the Hillsborough County sessions and is good for students 7 years and Fair Fine Arts Show and the Florida Strawolder. There will also be a Ceramics class with berry Festival Fine Art Show. Marta on Thursdays from 6-7:30 p.m. This For more information and to register for Ceramics class is designed for students of any classes, please visit www.winthroparts.org. If age over 5. Art with Alexa on Mondays from you have questions, please contact Kathy at 3-4:30 p.m. will feature fine artisan crafts for 758-5161 or kathy@winthroparts.org.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 16, Issue 7