Osprey Observer Brandon March 2020

Brandon/Winthrop

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

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Osprey Observer Continues Publishing To Keep Public Informed During COVID-19 Alert

By Marie Gilmore, Managing Editor released the following, “The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.

Because of this, we are taking steps to make sure everyone is following the requirements of the Florida Department of Health.” For the latest update, visit Hillsborough Schools.org/coronavirus.

Starting on March 17, the county administrator Mike Merrill made a special order for all restaurants, bars, clubs and other businesses serving food and drink that they must close by 10 p.m. and limit load capacity to 50 percent.

Shortly thereafter, the county released a second order limiting all public and private gatherings, including churches, to 50 people.

Experts say social distancing is the most effective way to slow the spread of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) and to ensure public health facilities are not overwhelmed. The practice means refraining from large gatherings and keeping a 6-foot distance from other people when possible.

Hillsborough County’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information for Business: https://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en /residents/public-safety/emergency-management/coronavirus-covid-19-information-for-business.

Current numbers for the state of Florida of COVID-19 cases: http://www.floridahealth.gov/diseasesand-conditions/COVID-19/index.html.

As of this printing, all local schools, libraries and many public facilities will be closed until further notice or at least until Monday, March 30.

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As your community newspaper, the Osprey Observer will stay open for regular business hours and will continue publishing our newspapers during the next eight weeks.

We are monitoring every press release and every advisory from Hillsborough County, the state of Florida and the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and it is our top priority to keep our readers, our advertisers and our families safe and healthy during the next two months. With that in mind, we are here to help local businesses craft their brand messaging, their social media and how to reflect their best practices to give the community confidence in their services.

Please call us at 657-2418 if you need guidance on any services, openings or assistance needed and our team will do everything we can to help. We are also collecting a list of organizations that need our help in this time, including Seeds of Hope, ECHO of Brandon (Emergency Care Help Organization), Meals On Wheels of Tampa and so many more. Please let us know of any community resources that could be of assistance to our readers, and thank you for reading!

While reading the upcoming editions, please know that some events may have announced a delay, a postponement or a rescheduled event after the paper has gone to press, so please contact the organization directly for the latest information.

For Hillsborough County schools, new Superintendent Addison Davis

P O S I T I V E

C O M M U N I T Y

Postal Customer

N E W S

Retiring Schools Superintendent Receives Community Impact Award

By Gwen Rollings

Jeff Eakins, the superintendent of ing strategies, techniques and knowlHillsborough County Public Schools, edge to ensure his success, Eakins received the Tampa admited he Metropolitan Area failed. He disYMCA’s 2020 covered the Gift Community Impact of Success: Award on March 5 forming relationat the TPepin’s ships with his Hospitality Centre. students, underTampa Y President standing their and CEO Matt interests and Mitchell said, “He noticing what believes that all motivates each schools and all stuone, then he dents must be set could be the up for success.” best teacher After Eakins they deserved. moved to He advises new Hillsborough County teachers that, from Ohio in 1989 “First, know your and began teaching students, invest Jeff Eakins, the superintendent of in a portable classyour time there.

Hillsborough County Public Schools, room in the middle Because once receiving the 2020 Community Impact Award at a YMCA dinner. of a Wimauma field, you know them, he continued to do even more as an you will adapt strategies to meet their educator/leader to give students a needs.” taste for learning.

Eakins helped students to excel The Community Impact Award and gain self-confidence, like former was not the first recognition of Eakins’ student Tiffani Martinez, who said, ability to mark the minds of others. In “When they tell you, ‘you’ll have a 1992, he received Teacher of the Year teacher you’ll always remember,’ he at Cypress Creek Elementary, where is it!” he began as a fourth grade teacher in 1991. In 2010, he was presented the Dr. Earl Lennard Outstanding Leader Award for Hillsborough County Public Schools. In that same year, he earned the NAFEPA’s Outstanding 36 Leadership Award for the State of Florida. USF Education Dean Robert Knoeppel surprised Eakins with the nationwide 2019 Excellence in In This Educational Leadership Award, and Issue Knoeppel said, “What I see when he speaks to the community is his real love and passion for what he has ANNUAL CLEAN UP............................PG 3 done. He models for us kindness and COMMUNITY AWARDS ....................PG 11 respect…He’s an inspiration to us all.”

Eakins loves to pass on knowlNEXT LEVEL DIVE CLUB ....................PG 13 edge and lessons he’s learned to help NEW FOOD CO‐OP ........................PG 20 others. He warns teachers not to accept the Gift of Failure. After graduSPORTS CONNECTION .............PGS 38‐39 ating from college, armed with teach-

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Volume 15, Issue 3

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

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March 2020

KTBB Is Holding Its 25th Annual Great American Cleanup

By Taylor Wells

Many Beach people natuPreserve, rally want Camp Bayou their commuOutdoor nity to be Learning clean and Center, nice to look Emanuel P. at. Keep Johnson Tampa Bay Recreation Beautiful Center, Little (KTBB) Manatee River Volunteers with Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful after cleaning up a location in Hillsborough County. shares this State Park and mindset, and so Sydney Dover it is hosting its Trail. A map of 25th annual the locations can Great American be found at Cleanup on http://bit.ly/KTBSaturday, April BGAC. 25 to help spruce “It is open to things up. all ages, so you KTBB is a can be a little kid Volunteers gathering garbage onto a tarp. volunteer-driven with your parnonprofit organization seeking to improve ents, you can be a teen, an adult; we’ve the local environment and inspire resihad 90 and 100-year-old people out dents to take better care of it through volthere helping out and making a differunteer and educational opportunities. ence,” said Riiska.

Since 1989, KTBB has worked towards What’s more, students participating conservation, waste reduction and beauti- in the Great American Cleanup will earn fication. service hours.

Last year’s event had a turnout of “We really couldn’t do any of this 3,729 volunteers, clearing 88,296 lbs. of work without our volunteers,” she said. litter and debris, removing 605 lbs. of “Without them, we wouldn’t be here, invasive plants and planting 479 trees, and without them, we would have a lot all in Tampa Bay. more trash around, so we really love our “We generally treat every cleanup volunteers.” as a great event, a fun event,” said Along with volunteers, KTBB is also Laura Riiska, education and marketing looking for local sponsors and site capcoordinator. “We want to make a differtains. If you want to take part, please ence in the environment and in our visit https:/www.keeptampabaybeauticommunity.” ful.org to register.

Projects in the cleanup may include On the day of the Great American removing litter, clearing trails, habitat Cleanup, site captains start setting up at restoration, landscape maintenance and 8:00 a.m., volunteer check-in begins at planting (weeding, trimming, etc.), play8:30 a.m. and the cleanup is from 9 ground/park restoration (painting, a.m. to 12 Noon. mulching, etc.), planting trees and more.

For more information, visit its webThe event will be held in 50 or more site, email Shelby Damrill, environmenlocations across Hillsborough County, tal projects coordinator, at such as Alafia River State Park, Apollo sdamrill@keeptbb.org or call 221-8733.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

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Resonate Tampa Bay Community Chorus & Orchestra Welcomes New Members

By Libby Hopkins

Athenian traditional comphilosopher Plato posers like Bach once said, “Music and Mozart as gives a soul to the well as modern universe, wings to composers like the mind, flight to Ola Gjeilo and the imaginaRene Clausen. tion and life While some to everyof their music may thing.” be religious, the Joseph organization is Resonate Tampa Bay’s Scarbrough, not affiliated with mission is to bring diverse people together for a common goal: music.

Sherry Fagan any religion. “As Martin and Laura Ferrario would all agree the director, my goal is to provide a crewith Plato. ative outlet for anyone and everyone These three are members of regardless of age, race, religion, sexual Resonate Tampa Bay, which is a local orientation, gender or economic status,” musical nonprofit. “Resonate was born Scarbrough said. “Music has the ability to out of Not Your Normal Entertainment, a unite, and in our world today, unification is community theater that spent two years what we need.” staging musicals in and around Brandon,” Laura Ferrario is a Valrico resident said Scarbrough, Resonate’s artist direcand recently joined Resonate because tor. “When I got a promotion at my church she wanted to get back to her musical job, I could not keep a full-time theater roots. “The opportunity came at a great running, so we had to close. However, time for me, as I had decided 2020 is the the singers and instrumentalists wanted year in which I reconnect with passions to continue to play and sing under my that have defined me,” Ferrario said. “As direction, so we started the community a child and through my early adulthood, I chorus and orchestra that is now called was always involved in singing/musical Resonate.” theater. The sound of voices blending to Resonate’s mission is to bring create this beautiful sound felt like home diverse people together for a common again.” goal: music. “We welcome all performers, Visit www.resonatethebay.com or call regardless of race, religion, orientation, 812-2466. Chorus rehearsals are held on movie genre preferences or any other Sunday nights from 5:30-7:30 p.m. and factor that contributes to the beauty of our orchestra rehearsals are held on Sunday human family,” Scarbrough said. “Our nights from 7:30-9:30 p.m. Both concerts focus on themes of unity, equali- rehearsals are held at the First United ty and peace.

Methodist Church of Seffner, which is The group’s music is selected from located at 1310 S. Kingsway Rd.

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Page 4

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Graduating Seniors Begin Career Paths At Future Career Academy’s Hiring Events

Brandon Chamber Leadership Ready To Serve

Staff Report

Local businesses years ago in looking for vibrant and Plant City High enthusiastic employSchool, it has ees are invited to parbeen an integral ticipate in the Future part of our ecoFair, a community job nomic developfair presented by the ment and sucFuture Career cessful for our Academy, Hillsborough schools and our County Public Schools businesses,” said and Workforce City of Plant City Development Local businesses are invited to participate Mayor Rick Lott.

Partners Corp. next in four upcoming career expos, including “Now that it has one in Brandon next month. month in Brandon. spread to other The goal of the fair, a one-day career schools, their students, too, are getting expo, is to combat the shortage of skilled prepared for the job market, and the labor, especially in industries such as business community must be involved in logistics, construction, information techthe process.” nology, manufacturing, agribusiness, Non-college-bound, job-seeking high industrial trades, healthcare and financial school seniors complete the Future and professional services, by offering a Career Academy’s integrated curriculum, place where recruiters can meet and talk which is focused on workforce developwith hundreds of motivated, prepared ment. Students learn about local indusgraduating seniors from area high tries via business field trips and informaschools who are excited to become part tional videos. They are taught financial litof a dynamic workforce. eracy, resume and interview preparation The Future Career Academy is as well as other career-related content housed in nine Hillsborough County high with real-world applications. At the Future schools, and there will be four events Fair, they demonstrate their readiness to next month. The first will take place in employers in need of hardworking talent.

Brandon at The Regent on Wednesday, Other participants and event sponApril 15 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. There will be sors include prominent national and local an event in East Tampa on Tuesday, employers such as Gordon Food April 21. The John R. Trinkle Center at Service, Stingray Chevrolet, Mosaic, HCC - Plant City will also host an event BayCare Health System, Hillsborough on Thursday, April 23 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., County Sheriff’s Office, Palm Harbor and there will be a Tuesday, April 28 Homes and the Suncoast Credit Union. event at Lennard High School in South Details about locations, dates and Hillsborough County. times are available at www.thefutureca“Since this program started five reeracademy.com.

Expiration: 3.31.2020

Volume 15, Issue 3

By Michelle Caceres For Pello, her position as 2020 chairwoman of the board is in addition to her career as the president/founder of Livingstone Academy.

Her first contact with the chamber was also at a Leadership Brandon program.

The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce “My husband recently added a new president and chair of took the class in the board.

2015 and loved it, The Greater Brandon Chamber of so I completed Commerce welcomes President and the yearlong program in 2017,” she said.

CEO Diana Simmons to its operational “The program benefited me personally team and Bernadette Pello as the 2020 and professionally, and when I was chairwoman of the board. asked if I wanted to serve as a board Simmons is a longtime Lakeland resmember, I accepted.” ident who built a career in college admisPello said she knew it was going to sions, assisting individuals with finding be a huge time commitment but was prethe right career training programs for the pared to serve her community. Between jobs they desired. She served on several the two monthly board meetings, ribbonboards, becoming a member on the cuttings, luncheons and additional comMulberry Chamber’s board in 2010. She mittee meetings, her new role keeps her eventually became its executive director, busy. helping the organization grow and pros“I’m at the chamber so often people per during her four-and-a-half-year think I work there, but the sacrifice of my tenure. She now brings that knowledge time is worth it because I have a vested and passion for helping others to the interest in making our community better,” Brandon Chamber. said Pello.

Her first connection with the cham“We offer the resources to help local ber occurred when she participated in the businesses prosper,” said Simmons.

Brandon Leadership program when she The Greater Brandon Chamber of was the school director for Fortis Institute Commerce is located at 1463 Oakfield in Mulberry.

Dr., Ste. 134. Its hours are Monday “I find it good fortune that I am able through Thursday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and to serve the Brandon community now,” Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. For more informaSimmons said. “My goal is to continue to tion about the chamber or to become a connect business owners to the member, call 689-1221 or visit resources they need to be successful.” www.BrandonChamber.com.

Expiration: 3.31.2020

Expiration: 3.31.2020

March 2020

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

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Master Gardener Library Program: Pest Control Solutions

Learn the basics of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and less toxic solutions for pest control in your landscape.

Wednesday, April 1; 6:30-8 p.m.

Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico.

Free Music Makers Workshops

The Florida Academy of Performing Arts offers free workshops for kids ages 4-10 to learn about musical instruments.

Programs held at Music Showcase, 402 Oakfield Dr., Brandon Workshop dates are Saturday, April 4, May 16, September 12, October 10, November 15 and December 5 from 9:30-11 a.m.

Register online at FAOPA.org.

Parents’ Night Out

The Florida Academy of Performing Arts and Music Showcase are hosting parents’ night out events throughout the school year for kids ages 5-12.

The night includes dinner, snacks, games, crafts, movies and more.

The cost is $20 for children already enrolled in programs/lessons, $25 for children not enrolled in programs and $10 per additional sibling.

Dates are Friday, April 3, May 29, August 28, September 25 and October 23 and Saturday, December 5 from 5:30-9:30 p.m.

Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr., Brandon Register at FAOPA.org or call 490-2787.

twells@ospreyobserver.com

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Deadline for next Brandon edition is 5th of month.

Compost, Microirrigation And Rainwater Harvesting Workshops

Saturday, April 4 at UF/IFAS Extension in Hillsborough County 5339 County Rd. 579, Seffner Attend one or all workshops. Compost attendees receive a compost bin and more. Microirrigation attendees receive a micro kit and more.

Rainwater harvesting attendees receive a spigoted rain barrel.

Pre-registration required: https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/upcoming events/. There’s a small fee per household.

Alzheimer’s Association And Dementia Caregiver Support Groups Join us in the Tessera of Brandon event center every second Wednesday at 2 p.m. and every third Monday at 7 p.m.

1320 Oakfield Dr., Brandon; call 607-6880 Join us at Campo Family YMCA every third Friday through May at 1:30 p.m.

3414 Culbreath Rd., Valrico.

Grey Matters Toastmasters

First and third Thursday of the month; 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Bloomingdale Library at 1906 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico Benefits of the club include confidence-building in public speaking, enhancement of leadership skills and unique, lively, stimulating discussions.

Visit https://greymatters.toastmastersclubs.org/.

Tampa Bay Chief Petty Officers Meeting

Fourth Thursday each month; 6:30 p.m.

Tampa Buffet, 3904 S. Dale Mabry, Britton Plaza, Tampa For information, call Chuck Peterman, President, at 767-1569.

Parkinson’s Support Group At Savannah Court Of Brandon

Third Tuesday of the month; 6 p.m.

Savannah Court of Brandon, 824 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon Call 643-6767 to RSVP with Rhonda Fournier, Executive Director.

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Page 6

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Water Conservation Tips For Dry Season

Staff Report

Hillsborough water leaks that can County wants to remind save homeowners residents about simple about 10 percent on steps they can take to their water bills. Leaks help conserve water, are commonly found in especially in the middle toilets, faucets, water of the dry season. softeners and irrigation “Water conservasystems. tion measures are To determine if essential in preserving there’s a water leak in Hillsborough County encourages our precious water your home, turn off all residents to look at ways to resources and to appliances that use conserve water this time of year. ensure that we always water, including ice have clean, safe water for all to makers, dishwashers and use,” said David irrigation systems. Note or Glicksberg, Sustainable Water take a photo of the location Resources Section manager of the small red sweep for Hillsborough County’s Environmental hand on the water meter. Wait two hours Services Division. “Conserving water can without using any water in the home, be done in numerous ways, including including faucets or toilets. View the small turning off the faucet while we brush our red hand on the water meter again. If it teeth to ensuring that our lawn irrigation has moved, there’s possibly a leak in the systems are working properly and operat- home or in the irrigation system. If you ing only during our designated watering don’t know where the leak is, contact a days and times. We all can help to conleak detection company. Contact a serve water to ensure the continued licensed plumber if you need help fixing it. availability of our water supply.”

Other steps to help conserve water Year-round watering restrictions still include adding a shutoff device to the apply, and residents should be familiar showerhead to turn it off while lathering, with the schedule. Addresses ending in 0, turning off the sink while brushing your 1, 2 or 3 can water their lawns on teeth or shaving, installing an ultra-lowMondays and Thursdays; addresses end- flow toilet—which uses only 1.6 gallons ing in 4, 5 or 6 can water their lawns on of water per flush or less—and running Tuesdays and Fridays; and addresses full loads in the dishwasher and washing ending in 7, 8 or 9 can water their lawns machines. In addition, reducing shower on Wednesdays and Saturdays. times by five minutes can save 15 to 30 Common areas with no addresses gallons of water. and locations with multiples addresses, “In our region, the dry season is typsuch as office complexes, can water their ically from October through May,” lawns on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Glicksberg said. “Water conservation All watering must be done before 8 needs to be practiced year-round. a.m. or after 6 p.m., and it can be done During the dry season, we need to be only once on the designated day. especially vigilant about conserving Watering with reclaimed water is not water.” restricted by day, but it must be done Visit https://www.hillsboroughcounbefore 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. on any ty.org/en/residents/property-owners-andgiven day, and hand watering and lowrenters/water-and-sewer/lower-bills-andvolume irrigation of plants may be done water-conservation to learn more about on any day and at any time but must not the many ways you can save water and be wasteful. lower your water bill, or call the Water Another step to water conservation is Conservation Team at 663-3295 for to find and fix easily corrected household more information.

CONTACT US TODAY!

710 Oakfield Dr. Ste. 262 Brandon, FL 33511

(813) 283-0642 ajhall@hcpagrp.com

www.TheBrandonCPAS.com

Volume 15, Issue 3

Local Minority-Owned Businesses Can Benefit From Super Bowl LV

By Michelle Caceres

Hosting what is Hundreds of busiarguably the biggest ness owners attended sporting event in the one of three informaworld, Super Bowl LIV tion sessions at drew an impressive Hillsborough County 200,000 visitors to Entrepreneur South Florida with an Collaborative Center, estimated economic located at 2101 E. impact to the region of Palm Ave. in Tampa. $400M. Welcoming business With Super Bowl owners to the event Business Connect & Community LIV now a Miami Outreach Director LaKendria Robinson was LaKendria memory, the next talking to local small business owners Robinson, director of Super Bowl host city, about opportunities with Super Bowl LV. Business Connect & Tampa, is gearing up for Super Bowl LV, Community Outreach for the Tampa Bay to be played on February 7, 2021 at Super Bowl LV Host Committee.

Raymond James Stadium. It was made By the application deadline, which official in February when Super Bowl Host was February 14, hundreds of businessCommittee Chair Rodney Baretto handed es had registered to participate in the prooff the NFL football to Tampa’s Host gram. The host committee will spend the Committee in an official ceremony. next month screening applicants and creBig hotel, restaurant and retail chains ating a final list of businesses that will be in the area will earn big bucks, but they’re profiled in the Business Connect not the only ones. Small businesses can Resource Guide, an online database of cash in too. approved, registered businesses that Business Connect, a joint cooperahelps the NFL, Super Bowl contractors tive between the National Football and event producers to identify and select League, Tampa Bay Super Bowl LV Host local businesses to partner with to proCommittee and Florida SBDC at duce Super Bowl LV events.

Hillsborough County, finds and screens “Even if they don’t end up getting a companies owned by minorities, vetercontract with the Super Bowl, working ans, women and LGBT owners to provide with our organization can help expose their goods and services. them to other opportunities available to Business owners were invited to them,” said Hillsborough County Super Bowl LV Business Connect Entrepreneur Collaborative Center Community Information Sessions to help Manager Lynn Kroesen. The center offers link local diverse business suppliers to entrepreneurs easy access to business Super Bowl LV contracting opportunities service providers, resources, mentorship while also providing a series of networkand specialty training. For more info, call ing and professional development work277-1393 or for the Collaborative Center, shops for all participating businesses. call 204-9267.

March 2020

Page 7

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

es c n u o n Cole An n, Jewish ig Campa val & More sti e Waymire e F m l i F aniell

one who brings five boxes of Citrus Park location at 7835 Gunn crayons or colored pencils.

Hwy., Plant City’s Walden Woods Tickets can be purchased store at 2202 James L. Redman from any member or by contactPkwy. and the Lake Brandon ing Karen Manget at 758-4952 Plaza Publix at 11255 Causeway or mangetk@gmail.com or Blvd.

Pam Brooks at 758-0162 or The kiosk program softed by D ver.com Compil @ospreyobser pbrooksfl@aol.com. launched last February at four tax ire dwaym The club is also hosting a collector locations in Brandon, Paint N Sip at the clubhouse Drew Park, North Tampa and on Wednesday, April 29. Tickets for Ruskin and has already this event, which includes light refreshprocessed 20,000 vehicle registraments and drinks, are $25. Doors open tions.

Bloomingdale Community Garage at 6:30 p.m. and painting starts at 7 p.m.

While you can still register Sale Scheduled To learn more, contact Sharon at your vehicle online or at a tax colThe fifth annual Bloomingdale East 416-4048 or Stephanie at gfwcbrandonlector branch, neither of those and West Community Garage Sale will juniors@gmail.com. options come with the ability to take place on Saturday, April 4 starting at The group will host its general meettake home a Publix chicken tender 8 a.m. The community is invited to learn ing at the clubhouse on Thursday, April 2 sub.

Sun City Center Men’s Club donates $1,000 to the more on the group’s Facebook page or starting at 6:30 p.m. To learn more, find For more information, visit Hearing Loss Association of America Sun City Chapter. by calling the Bloomingdale Community the group on Facebook by searching https://flmvexpresskiosk.com/. spoken during the meetings. The SCC Office at 681-2051. @gfwcbrandonjuniors.

Men’s Club is committed to using its The event is free to the public.

South Bay Genealogical Society Meets resources to make life better and easier Bass Pro Shops Hosts Kids’ Weekend On Tuesday, April 21, the South Bay for residents of our community through Cole Announces Campaign As part of its Spring Fishing Class, Genealogical Society will meet at the projects such as this.

Kriztofer Cole recently announced his Bass Pro Shops is hosting a Kids’ United Methodist Church in the Life Meetings are held on the third campaign for State Senate District 19 on Weekend on March 28 and 29. The event Enrichment Center (LEC) on 1210 W. Del Tuesday of each month at 1 p.m. at St. the republican ticket. He is a navy veteran will include free fishing for kids at the Webb Blvd. in Sun City Center. The event Andrew Presbyterian Church, located at that was deployed to the South China catch and release outside pond, photos, will begin at 10:30 a.m. with a round table 1239 Del Webb Blvd. W. in Sun City Sea, has visited several countries and crafts and giveaways. discussion that will be followed by a sitCenter. served as an interior communications To learn more, down luncheon at 12 Noon and then the For more information, visit technician on an Arleigh Burke-class visit www.basspro.com/brandon or look main presentation by the guest speaker hhtp://www.hlaascc.com/contact-us, call destroyer. As an interior communications up the location’s Facebook page for 634-1252 or email eloise637@gmail.com. at 1 p.m. This month’s speaker will be technician, he worked on equipment that events and information.

Carol Rooksby Wiedlich. She will be talkranged from fiber optics to hydraulics and The store is located at 10501 Palm ing on ‘Wiki, Wiki, What?’ This presentaVehicle Registration Can Now Be everything in between. He is a small busiRiver Rd. in Tampa. Call 655-2400 for tion will focus on explaining what wikis Renewed At Three Publix Locations ness owner that was born in Orlando and more information on the store.

Because renewing your vehicle regis- are and how you can use wikis for raised in Polk City. “This race is not about genealogical research. The cost is $15 tration should also be a pleasure, three Republicans and Democrats, it's about Brandon Coin Club Show per person for lunch. Please include your Publix locations in Hillsborough County making progress on some of our biggest Brandon Coin Club Inc. has choice of the two meals being offered: now host tax collector self-service kiosks. issues in the district,” Cole said. Visit announced its 2020 Coin and Currency lasagna or vegetarian lasagna. For reserThe new kiosk program, Florida MV www.voteforcole.com to learn more. shows. The shows will be held on vations and information, call Sheila at Express, allows customers to get a new Saturday, April 11, June 27 and 319-631-4457. Mail your check to SBGS, registration card and license plate sticker Brandon Junior Woman’s Club Hosts November 28 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the P.O. Box 5202, Sun City Center, FL in a matter of minutes, as opposed to Bunco And More Brandon Elks Lodge #2383, located at 33571. Checks must be received by several days. The blue and yellow kiosks The Brandon Junior Woman’s Club is 800 Centennial Lodge Dr. in Brandon.

Thursday, April 9. will be available at the grocery chain’s hosting some great commuThere will be free gold coin nity events in late March and drawings along with free admisApril. sion and parking.

On Sunday, March 29, Thirty dealers, 45 tables and there will be a Legacy the ICG grading service will be in Garage Sale at the clubattendance offering free verbal house, located at 129 N. opinions and $10 slabbings.

Moon St. in Brandon.

For more information, call Jack Laci Tickets are now on sale for Bunco for at 352-777-6073 or email brandoncoinEducation, which will be held at The club@yahoo.com.

Bridges Assisted Living Facility, located at 11350 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview.

Hearing Loss Association Of America Tickets to the event, which takes place on Sun City Center Chapter Receives Thursday, April 16, cost $20, and all proDonation ceeds will go towards the group’s scholarThe Sun City Center Men’s Club conship fund. The event starts at 6 p.m. with tributed $1,000 to the Hearing Loss social time until bunco begins at 6:45 Association of America Sun City Center p.m.

Chapter last month. This donation will be Residents are invited to bring a friend used to fund the captioning services for and enjoy an evening of fun with refreshits monthly meetings. The captioning ments, raffle baskets, a 50/50 and prizes.

(CART) services help to accommodate An extra raffle ticket will be given to anythe members and guests to read what is

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

Page 8

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

High n o d n a Br terfly t u B , n Reunio ore M & g in Garden Danielle Waymirme ed by ver.co Compil @ospreyobser ire dwaym

*Please note, many events may have updates to dates, times and locations. Please contact orgnizers to confirm.

Incoming Superintendent Addison Davis

Hillsborough County Schools signed a new superintendent last month. Addison Davis has spent more than 20 years educating and supporting students in Florida. He began as a classroom teacher in Duval County and most recently served as superintendent in Clay County. This past year, he was a finalist for Florida’s Superintendent of the Year.

Last month, in a unanimous vote, the Hillsborough County School Board selected Davis as its district’s next superintendent. On February 19, the Hillsborough County School Board approved the contract for Davis and had a short ceremony during the school board meeting. Davis started in Hillsborough schools on March 2 and works side by side with Superintendent Jeff Eakins during a two-week transition period. After spring break, Davis will become the acting superintendent, with Superintendent Eakins on administrative leave until his contract ends on Tuesday, June 30. Davis will formally become the superintendent of Hillsborough schools on Wednesday, July 1.

Brandon High School Hosts Reunion

The Brandon High School graduating class of 1970 is having its 50-year high school reunion on Friday and Saturday, April 24 and 25 at the Embassy Suites in Brandon.

The event will also include a celebration of the 1969-70 football team, which made it to the state championships. The group is trying to reach as many of the members of the team as possible and would love to have them attend the reunion.

Anyone interested in attending should contact Craig Sweeting at 629-9238.

The Bridges Retirement Community Hosts How To Protect Yourself From Cybercrime

Cybercrime is the fastest growing area of crime, so learn how to avoid being a victim by attending ‘Cybercrime – The Crime of the 21st Century,’ held on Thursday, March 19 from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Consumer protection investigators from the Hillsborough County Consumer and Veterans Services will bring the latest information on consumer fraud trends perpetrated over the internet.

Education and information is considered the first line of defense in the battle to protect consumers from victimization.

The workshop will be held at The Bridges on 11350 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview. Call 4138900 to reserve your seat.

1870-1912, which were relocated from across the state of Florida.

There will be knowledgeable interpreters dressed in historic outfits that will be located at each building and activity to lead your students through history, crafts and hands-on activities. You will have an opportunity to make Incoming Superintendent Addison Davis signs his contract. a broom out of broomcorn, help churn butter and help with Butterfly Gardening Seminar everyday chores.

Come learn all about the life cycle Tickets are $8 per person 4 years of butterflies and the best plants for your old and up. Children under 3 years old garden to attract them, as well as celewill be admitted for free. Advanced ticket brate the grand opening of the bigger, purchase is recommended, as this is a better butterfly house. very popular event and there are limited The event will be held on Saturday, tickets available.

Parking is free; enter April 4 at 10 a.m at Kerby’s Nursery, on Orient Rd. only.

Please follow the located at 2311 S. Parsons Ave. in directions listed on the website and not Seffner. a GPS. Visit www.crackercountry.org.

FishHawk Trails Hosts Garage Sale-POSTPONED UNTIL FALL

Kindergarten Roundup

Calling all future Kindergarten parents. Plan to attend a Ready for Kindergarten event at an elementary school near you.

These events will offer students and families a firsthand look at kindergarten life and the opportunity to see the school and meet the staff.

For more information, visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/doc/2276/boldbeginnings/kindergarten/kindergartenreg/.

The Bridges Retirement Community Hosts Caregiver College

The Bridges Retirement Community is hosting the Alzheimer’s Association’s ‘Caregiver College,’ a series of educational classes to help you build your caregiver tool kit. When it comes to dementia caregiving, knowledge is power. The classes include: Ten Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s on Tuesday, March 17; Healthy Living for the Brain & Body on Tuesday, March 24; Effective Communication Strategies on Tuesday, March 31; and Legal & Financial Planning on Tuesday, April 7. All classes will be held from 10-11:30 a.m. Come to one class or come to four classes. There is no fee to attend.

These classes will be held at The Bridges on 11202 Dewhurst Dr. in Riverview. Seating is limited. Please reserve a seat by calling 800-272-3900.

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Cracker Country Make And Take Crafts

Cracker Country, located at the Florida State Fairgrounds at 4800 US301 in Tampa, is hosting a make and take craft event this month.

This event is designed for homeschool students of all ages but all are welcome. The museum holds a collection of 13 original buildings dating from

Growing Edible Mushrooms

Come learn about the fascinating world of fungi. Learn what you need to know to begin growing edible mushrooms both indoors and outdoors. The class starts at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7 and will be held at the Riverview Branch Library, located at 10509 Riverview Dr. Contact Anne Marie Boehm at amblibrary@gmail.com.

March 2020

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 9

Kiwanians Host Educator Breakfast

By Linda Chion Kenney

The Kiwanis program is designed to Club of Greater promote character Brandon hosted a development, selfbreakfast on March esteem and persever12 to celebrate eduance. (‘Terrific’ is cators who work an acronym for thoughtwith club members ful, enthusiastic, to provide schoolrespectful, responsible, based youth proinclusive, friendly, grams, including the inquisitive and capable.)

Terrific Kids student At the Educator Appreciation Breakfast Recognition includes recognition initiative getting pinned as a on March 12 (from the left), Melissa Anderson and Tara Horn from at elementary Terrific Kid, a foodBuckhorn Elementary School and Kelly schools. themed party and presNoel and Lisa Kennedy from Lopez “I feel we entation of certificates Elementary. should all be giving you this breakfast, and other giveaways, including a bumper rather than you giving it to us,” said Lisa sticker that notes a child’s ‘Terrific’ Kennedy, a guidance counselor at Lopez achievement.

Elementary School in Seffner.

School-based Kiwanis youth pro“A lot of our kiddos, they might not grams also include K-Kids, for elementary have that academic achievement yet, but students; the Builders Club, for middlemy goodness, they light up when they school students; Key Club, for high know they’re going to be a Terrific Kid,” school students; and Circle K added Cathy Haynes, a guidance counInternational (CKI), for college students. selor at Valrico Elementary.

At the March breakfast, Kathy Horn, She added that when Rotarian Eddie assistant principal of Buckhorn Jenkins visits the school each month for Elementary, said she’s come “full circle,” the Terrific Kids ceremony, for the stuhaving been both a student at Buckhorn dents “it’s like winning the lottery.” Being and a member of the Key Club at recognized for “character traits and skills,” Bloomingdale High.

Haynes added, gives them “that feeling of Buckhorn students, she added, love success that will carry them throughout Terrific Kids. their lifetime.”

“If they don’t get a bumper sticker According to Kiwanian Janet Daigle, they come back and get it, and their parthe Brandon club has Terrific Kids proents want it too,” Horn said. “All the work grams at Alafia, Buckhorn, Colson, you do, and the money you spend, it’s all FishHawk Creek, Frost, Gibsonton, worth it for our kids.”

Kingswood, Limona, Lithia Springs, The Brandon Kiwanis club meets at Lopez, Nelson, Riverview, Seffner, 8 a.m. on Thursday mornings at the Stowers, Valrico and Yates, as well as Golden Corral on 815 Providence Rd. in Bailey, James, McDonald and Tinker.

Brandon. Visit BrandonKiwanis.com for The Terrific Kids student recognition more information.

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Page 10

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 15, Issue 3

Local Seventh Grader Wins National Sandy Hook Promise Contest

By Amy Schechter

hate in the world.”

‘Hello.’ Such a simThe process of ple word can have a writing his essay powerful impact on the helped Malone come life of a person who feels to terms with the hurt isolated. When Raimon and anger he felt from Malone, a seventh grade losing Dwayne, but the student at McLane bigger epiphany came Middle School in when he won. He Brandon, began penning understood there were his response to the people out there who Sandy Hook Promise felt the same way he Start with Hello Student did and were touched Voices Contest in his by his story: “I didn’t student ambassadors realize how big of an class, he never imagined accomplishment it was he’d win.

Raimon Malone, a seventh grade at first. I see things difThe Sandy Hook student at McLane Middle School ferently. It wasn’t until I Promise is a nonprofit in Brandon, recently won a national essay writing contest. realized how big an organization commitimpact it made that I really knew it was ted to empowering individuals to take action in their homes and communities special.”

His journey to healing had been to unite people of all backgrounds and going on for a while, but it was the beliefs in the hopes of preventing viobeginning for so many others in his lence. This year’s contest responded audience. His mother, Kischa Myers, to the theme of ‘How Start with Hello always knew her son and his writing Builds Community and Breaks were special.

Barriers.’ Malone realized he had an “I’m just so proud of him,” she said. incredibly personal connection to the As a student ambassador, he often topic; he himself felt isolated after the acts as a bridge between classmates. death of his brother and best friend, Malone is especially suited to this as Dwayne, due to gang violence. He thought about what he would want oth- he is a natural observer and takes time to reflect on what he sees. He also ers to know about his life before they never assumes he fully understands jumped to conclusions and began to what is going on in someone else’s life write. until he actually asks. All it takes to Malone’s essay begins by saying, build a bridge instead of a barrier is to “I start with hello because no one can start off the conversation with “Hello.” read minds. You never know what the You can read his award-winning next person has going on. People tend to judge before they help, which is one essay by visiting www.sandyhookpromise.org/startwithhelloweek. of the many reasons there’s so much

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March 2020

Page 11

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

TeleVoIPs Breaks Ground In Brandon

By Brian Bokor

The single sions, numbers or building that offices. Disaster has emerged recovery is proat the Bell vided, ensuring Shoals that no calls are Executive lost during equipPlaza (on the ment failures or southwest corlocalized power TeleVoIPs Business Phone Solutions is opening outages. ner of an office in the Bell Shoals Executive Plaza.

Lumsden Rd., Offering Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and services that fit just Bell Shoals Rd.) will about any size and type soon be the new home of operation, TeleVoIPs’ of TeleVoIPs Business current clientele Phone Solutions, a priincludes many profesvately owned voice-over IP company sional businesses covering a variety of currently headquartered at 1723 S. sectors, including: legal, financial, medKings Ave. in Brandon along with a ical, logistics, advertising/marketing and satellite branch in Jacksonville. insurance services, among many othThe local firm, founded in 2009 by ers.

Tampa native and USF graduate CEO Outside of everything business Grant Baxley, includes the leadership phones, TeleVoIPs also actively particiteam of Scott Baxley (COO), Nick pates in the community through coTodisco (CFO) and Steve Cox (CSO). sponsoring charitable events, such as The four have merged their collective IT the upcoming Golf Madness event to backgrounds and talents to form one of be held at Top Golf on Friday, March 27 the fastest growing businesses in the for the Children’s Cancer Center Tampa metropolitan area over the past (https://childrenscancercenter.org), several years. When asked about the working with Habitat For Humanity on relocation of their office, Nick stated they an ongoing basis as well as hosting SIP “look forward to moving into the new Night, a tech-based networking event space and having the opportunity to held once a quarter in Tampa and in grow our team and better serve our local Jacksonville. markets.”

SIP Night is a casual networking The TeleVoIPs platform (phone calls group for IT professionals that meet up over the internet) was created as a way at a local brewery to talk tech and teleto provide businesses with a reliable, com developments. TeleVoIPs sponwell-managed and cost-effective phone sors SIP Night to provide a forum for service that utilizes a state-of-the-art, relationship building in the local tech cloud-based phone system. Developing community. Each event features new custom cutting edge solutions to suit VoIP products and software, as well as their clients’ needs is what sets appetizers and craft brews. IT profesTeleVoIPs apart from other phone servsionals, managed service providers and ice providers. Mobile apps allow employ- tech startups are all welcome to join the ees to make and answer work line calls SIP Night fun (RSVP on the website from anywhere around the globe with a required). virtual dashboard providing detailed call For more information, call 575statistics for call centers. Voicemails can 4675, visit its Facebook page at be transcribed directly into email inboxes www.facebook.com/televoips, website and overflow calls are automatically at https://televoips.com or email transferred or rerouted to other exteninfo@televoips.com.

Community Roundtable Issues Annual Awards And Scholarships

By Linda Chion Kenney

The Haley visit to MacDill Air House Fund Force Base. Senory and Brandon founded resident and Sencommunications, veteran Paul run now by his Senory were daughter, Stacie recognized Miller. last month at Armwood senior the Anais Clark and Community Newsome senior Paul Senory (center) the newly named Alice Landon White each Roundtable’s B. Tompkins Community Service Award Community received a $1,000 recipient, with past recipients (from the left) Affairs dinner, scholarship named John Sullivan, Betty Jo Tompkins, Lisa Rodriguez and Dave Braun. The award was posthumously for where two first issued in 1975. seniors also Maureen Krzanowski, received college “the guiding force for the scholarships. roundtable for many On behalf of the years.” Clark, with a Haley House Fund, weighted 6.26 grade Co-Founder Mary point average, aims to Ellen Harlan, with become a meteorologist.

Co-Founder Dave White, with a 6.33 GPA, Braun, a past plans to study sports Honorary Mayor of medicine.

Brandon, accepted Founded more than the roundtable’s 60 years ago as the Haley House Fund Co-Founders 2020 Non-Profit of Dave Braun and Mary Ellen Harlan Roundtable Charities of the Year Award. The accepting the 2020 Non-Profit of Greater Brandon, the the Year Award as Community charity provides livnonprofit Community Roundtable President Janine ing spaces for famiRoundtable is responsiNickerson (left) and Lisa lies while their mili- Rodriguez, vice president, look on. ble for the Greater tary loved ones recover from spinal, Brandon Fourth of July Parade and the brain and other life-altering injuries at annual race for Honorary Mayor of Tampa’s James A. Haley Veterans’ Brandon. The race kicks off in June Hospital. and the new Honorary Mayor (like the Also at the February 25 dinner, at current Honorary Mayor, Angie Kagey) the Center Place Fine Arts & Civic is named before the parade’s start Association, Senory received the 2020 based on the candidate who raises the Alice B. Tompkins Community Service most money for selected nonprofits.

Award, in part for his longtime associaRoundtable President Janine tion with the Greater Brandon Nickerson also promoted the group’s Chamber of Commerce’s Military annual Community Service Forum at Affairs Council. Tony Saladino, the Brandon High, where students connect 2019 award recipient, noted Senory’s with local nonprofits. service on the boards of Brandon The Community Roundtable meets Regional Hospital, Bank of Tampa and on the second Wednesday of the the New Jersey School of Nursing in month at 6:30 p.m. at Center Place on Brandon; his work with Wounded 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon. Visit Warriors; and his work organizing the www.thecommunityroundtable.org or chamber’s annual Leadership Brandon call 661-4350.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 15, Issue 3

Two King High School Students Donate IT Hardware To Support Students

By Sean Crumpacker

Two King High Sharma explained School students, that the main problems Aaryan Sharma and faced so far have not Arpan Bagui, began been with companies an initiative to conbeing unwilling to share nect public schools monitors, but rather and companies with more bureaucratic ones, excess hardware in regarding approval to an attempt to relodonate the monitors to cate unnecessary the initiative. equipment to Another issue faced schools and noble

by Sharma and Bagui institutions in dire has been the matter of need of them. Now, Leto High School receiving monitors transporting the donated as a result of King High School they seek to expand IT hardware to the students Aaryan Sharma and Arpan the initiative’s reach schools which request Bagui’s initiative. to more schools outthem. Some schools side of their immedihave been able to hanate area and are dle transportation of the looking for Brandon equipment themselves, area businesses to but others have needed help them. a bit more help to Despite governreceive the donations. ment funding, many Generously, Sharma public schools and and Bagui have been noble institutions willing and able to help lack the resources with transportation in required to fulfill a some cases thus far, at STEM education for times even using their every student. own money to rent Pride Elementary School receiving Computer labs are trucks for distribution. another donation of necessary IT hardware. highly-contested “It depends on the resource centers within schools, often size of the order,” Sharma explained, having to be reserved by teachers regarding how the hardware is delivered weeks in advance, and especially durto requesters. “Some schools only need ing the testing seasons, schools need 10 to 15 monitors, and, in those cases, all the equipment available to ensure all we just use our own cars. However, in the state and district-required testing some cases, schools need maybe 50 to can be completed in an organized, time- 60, and that obviously can’t fit in our ly manner. cars, so we might rent out a truck or “One thing we realized, Arpan and I, something.” Sharma added that often was that a lot of companies in our local the costs come out of his and Bagui’s area would be running in excess of cerown pockets. tain computers, or a lot of IT infrastrucSharma and Bagui encourage pubture stuff, and what would happen is lic school and noble institution representhat they would either throw it away or tatives interested in receiving some of just sell it for very cheap,” said Sharma. the donated hardware to better their “We also realized that in our public establishment to also contact Sharma at school system there’s a severe lack of his personal email, certain IT infrastructure. So, we realized aaryan_sharma@yahoo.com, to discuss that if we could create a pipeline their needs. Currently, the initiative has between these corporations and public more than 100 monitors available to disschools, we could solve two problems at tribute. The students are still reaching once.” out to regional corporations to further Unwanted hardware is often simply their goal. thrown out or sold for cheap by compaThe initiative has no way to accept nies no longer in need of them, Sharma donations at this time, but willing volunexplained. However, by relieving these teers and donors can contact Sharma at corporations of their hardware, not only his personal email listed above to discould waste be cut down on, but the cuss how they may help further the mislack of equipment available to schools sion of providing public schools with could be mitigated as well. necessary IT equipment.

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March 2020

Page 13

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Brandon Diver Runs Next Level Dive Club, Hosts Gasp-Our Beads Tampa Bay Cleanup

By Linda Chion Kenney

Tampa Bay Next Level Dive waters are 1,500 Club he launched pounds cleaner two years ago as a after a trash dive Facebook group, organized by Mica now with 3,600 Neal of Brandon, members. the founder of the An upcoming Next Level Dive trip to Hawaii in Club, which this November 2017 year organized the prompted Neal to fourth annual become a certified Gasp-Our Beads of diver after learning Photo by Linda Chion Kenney about an aquarium Tampa Bay Mica Neal of Brandon, founder of the Next in Hawaii that Cleanup.

Level Dive Club, posing with trash The cleanup allows diving with recovered at the Gasp-Our Beads of debuted in 2017 uncaged sharks.

Tampa Bay Cleanup on February 2. under the auspices of the NAUI Green “I just always wanted to dive with Diver Initiative, and as an action project sharks,” he said. “When I got home, I for the Hillsborough 100 Conservation started diving even more and invested Challenge, run by the Hillsborough Soil in better gear and diving equipment.” and Water Conservation District.

Unhappy with the dive clubs he Neal stepped up to host this year’s found on Facebook, Neal said he dive, which drew 18 boats and 180 volstarted his own group as “a platform unteers to the Davis Island boat ramp in for people to meet other new divers”— Tampa on February 2. Collected trash and not as a means toward his own included a laptop, cellphone, scooter, notoriety. folding minibike, collection of baseballs Next on Neal’s wish list is to and 250 pounds of Gasparilla beads. establish a nonprofit geared toward “It saddens me to see what people cleanup events, with chapters throughjust don’t really care about,” Neal said. out the state.

“Think about where your trash goes. If In the meantime, ‘Next Level Dive you were at your house and you just Club Florida’ on Facebook posts dive cleaned out the oil in your car, would trips, courses, training, special events you pour it out on your kitchen table? If and more. ‘Mica Neal Photography,’ you were at work and finished eating, also on Facebook, specializes in would you throw your McDonald’s bag underwater, architectural and scenic across a conference table? You photography. wouldn’t. So why do you have to do it in For more information, visit public?” www.NextLevelDiveClub.com. On Neal’s passion for diving led to the Instagram, visit: @nextleveldiveclub.

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Page 14

Volume 15, Issue 3

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Ice Sports Forum Becomes TGH Ice Plex With New Upgrades And Partnership

By Nick Nahas

just our hockey team, but everyone who visits the TGH Ice Plex, will enjoy a heightened experience. The Lightning would like to thank Tampa General Hospital and Tom Bradley, owner of the TGH Ice Plex, for almost two decades of valued support.”

The TGH Ice Plex has one of the highest adult hockey participation levels in the country In 2018, with more than 100 teams in various leagues. the Ice Plex and the In January, the Ice Sports Forum Lightning in Brandon became known as the signed a 10TGH Ice Plex. The change was year lease extension in conjunction announced by the Tampa Bay with the building of a new team off-ice Lightning, who have been a partner facility.

In the same year, the with the facility since 1997, using it as Lightning’s privately funded $6 million its official training complex. Tampa General Hospital received the naming facility was completed, creating a world-class locker room and training rights. complex for the team. The TGH Ice “Our naming rights agreement made so much sense on so many lev- Plex also invested $500,000 at the time in the project on rink, glass and els,” said TGH President and CEO dasher board upgrades. The new John Couris. “The TGH Ice Plex is a facility is 18,000 square feet, whereas facility where families come to create the previous space was only 5,500. great memories together and cele“When we were approached with brate birthdays and milestones, where the idea of rebranding the Ice Sports numerous high school and youth Forum in a partnership with Tampa hockey programs compete and where General Hospital, we said, ‘absoluteour world champion Tampa Bay ly.’

TGH is a first-class institution with Lightning practice. From the TGH Ice a strong community presence,” said Plex to our TGH Brandon Healthplex, Bradley.

“We are honored to be partproviding East Hillsborough County nering with TGH and the Lightning. with care from the finest medical staff in the Bay area, TGH is proud to sup- Through the team’s grass roots efforts to expose and promote hockey in our port and be a part of this community. community, coupled with their accesProviding world-class health care sibility during practice and training while supporting an active lifestyle is sessions here at TGH Ice Plex, we a keystone of TGH.” see interest in hockey at an all-time The multi-year extension partnerhigh. The Lightning players training at ship deal between the team and the TGH Ice Plex is a very cool expeTampa General Hospital includes rience for our skaters as they comother elements, such as in-ice placepete on the same ice as the Bolts ment at Amalie Arena and signature each day.” consumer engagement and activation The facility hosts numerous onplatforms. ice camps and clinics throughout the “The Lightning are extremely year.

The TGH Ice Plex has one of proud to be extending our already the highest adult hockey participation long-standing partnership with Tampa levels in the country with more than General Hospital,” said Lightning 100 teams in various leagues, includChief Executive Officer Steve Griggs. ing youth recreational leagues and “Tampa General is a pillar of the travel teams ranging from mini-mite to Tampa Bay community and we're high school.

The TGH Ice Plex is excited that they will be bringing their located at 10222 Elizabeth Pl, Tampa, world-class name to our team's pracFL 33619. Visit tghiceplex.com tice facility. We are confident that not

Medi-Weightloss Brandon Celebrates 14 Years Of Client Success

By Kelly Wise Valdes

The physicians and trained staff at the Medi-Weightloss clinic in Brandon are celebrating 14 years of successfully working with patients to lose weight and gain a healthier lifestyle.

Medi-Weightloss in Brandon is happy to be celebrating its 14th year of helping people reach their weight loss goals. The well-known and successful weight loss center was also voted Best of the Best in 2019 by the Tampa Bay Times.

The physicians and staff at the Brandon location work with patients to develop a program that will help individuals lose weight and learn to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Many people are stuck on the dieting roller coaster. At MediWeightloss, the staff teaches clients to learn to live healthy for life.

Michelle Hicks struggled with her weight for many years. With every passing year, losing weight became more difficult and the additional weight began to affect her health.

“My health was starting to pay the price from years of being overweight with

high blood pressure and cholesterol,” said Hicks. “I was always tired and run down.”

Hicks tried different fad diets and programs, with little success. “I’d been trying to lose weight on my own for months, with little to no results,” she recalled. “I would lose five pounds, then gain them right back.”

Then Hicks discovered MediWeightloss. After she researched the physician-supervised program, she ultimately was able to change her life. At the Medi-Weightloss clinic in Brandon, a dedicated medical team, including the supervision of board-certified internist Andrew Weitzman, M.D., helps clients lose weight and learn to live healthier. After an initial consultation, a weight loss program was tailored to suit Hicks’ specific needs and she learned how to create a healthy lifestyle. Ultimately, Michelle lost an amazing 55 lbs.

Medi-Weightloss reports that there are 250,000 people nationwide that have lost a combined total of over 6 million lbs. on the Medi-Weightloss Program.

Unlike other programs, customers are not required to purchase pre-packaged foods; however, there are MediWeightloss foods that can be purchased as an option. To begin your weight loss journey, call the Medi-Weightloss clinic in Brandon at 654-1110. Medi-Weightloss is located at 203 W. Bloomingdale Ave. For more information, visit www.MediWeightloss.com.

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March 2020

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 15

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November. The Medical sunny and Director Dr. Florida Dermatology and Skin Cancer Centers favorable yearoffers free skin cancer screenings in Gibsonton. K. Wade round conditions Foster is also experienced in our fellowship-trained area can create quite in Mohs surgery, a recipe for too much the most effective exposure to ultraviolet technique for (UV) light, thus causing a lot of peomost types of skin cancers with miniple to have significant sun damage. mal scarring or risk.

Unfortunately, sun damage can lead FLDSCC Apollo Beach is currentto skin cancer and a whole host of ly offering free skin cancer screenings other issues. to new patients. An annual skin exam Skin cancer, such as melanoma, can help identify suspicious growths, can appear at any time in a person’s moles and other dermatologic life, and the risk increases as you changes. Areas of the skin that are age. The good news, though, is that if exposed to the sun are more prone to it’s detected early, it’s almost always develop moles or certain growths, treatable. and because of this, it’s very imporWith more than 9,500 people in tant to have an experienced dermatolthe U.S. given a new skin cancer ogist or licensed medical professional diagnosis every day, Florida conduct a yearly body analysis to Dermatology and Skin Cancer check all areas of your body, includCenters (FLDSCC) makes an impact ing your scalp, neck and back. with its new office in Apollo Beach, Contact FLDSCC today for your offering a full spectrum of dermatolnext free skin cancer screening. FLDogy and skin care services. With an SCC Apollo Beach is located at expert team of physicians, APRNs 13145 Kings Lake Dr., #104 in and PAs, FLDSCC diagnoses and Gibsonton. You can also reach the treats skin cancers as well as skin new office by calling 741-3376.

Stream Live player Andrew Tampa is one of Burdick to the the very few team as a broadstreaming compacaster. Burdick is a nies in Hillsborough teacher at Brooks County that broadDeBartolo and he casts live high also owns a sports school sporting performance comevents online. pany called AB Since January, the Sports three-man team Performance in has covered at Apollo Beach. The Photo by Nancy Nahas least one baskettrio didn’t have any (L-R) Jim Delaney, Andrew Burdick and Kavier Nunez broadcasting the Bloomingdale prior experience ball game a week vs. Lennard basketball game. in the area to give producing broadthe student-athletes the recognition they casts, but they learned from watching deserve while also filling a need for local nationally televised games. They all talk high school sports coverage that the area daily about ideas to expand the business lacks for the most part. They have covand discuss which games they will cover ered games at Lennard, Bloomingdale, next through a group text. They started Durant, Newsome, Plant City, Riverview covering the 2019-2020 basketball seaand Strawberry Crest in the east/south son in January. Delaney interviews areas of Hillsborough County. coaches on the day of the game for backKavier Nunez started streaming the ground information on the teams and Lennard High School baseball games last players. spring as a hobby to record his son Yo-yo The crew hopes to gain more sponNunez’s games. After his son graduated, sors in order to expand coverage and Nunez began plans to extend his coverupgrade equipment. They would evenage of the area and to also add some tually like to have enough crew memsportscasters to the mix to help spice up bers to cover two games a night the broadcasts. instead of just one. Delaney also pointLocal school teacher and friend Jim ed out that this service can be benefiDelaney joined Nunez as a partner and cial for players because a college became the voice of Stream Live Tampa coach could be watching the broadcast in January. The 34-year Valrico resident is and might gain interest in recruiting a a former Bloomingdale baseball player player. (class of 1990) who previously had his “My goal is for Steam Live Tampa own recruiting service and has been to be the livestreaming service provider involved in youth sports through his for Tampa and the local area, and daughter. Delaney had the sporting coneventually local colleges for the out-ofnections that Stream Live Tampa needed state family and fans, while at the same to help further the business. time becoming trusted business part“We do this for the kids,” said ners in the Greater Tampa Bay area,” Delaney. “Kids love it, parents love it, said Nunez. “We want to do multiple coaches love it and it is fun for us, we broadcasts in the future.” have a blast doing it. At the end of the Subscribe to their YouTube chanday, it’s all about the community.” nel, Stream Live Tampa, or follow them Nunez and Delaney also added foron Facebook and Twitter to view a mer Lennard quarterback and basketball livestream.

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Page 16

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Hallmark CPA Group Offers Full Service Firm

By Michelle Caceres

As a business owner, CPA Group regularly time is the most valuable explains the new rules to resource. Spend it runclients so they better underning your business and stand the decisions availleave the accounting and able to them. One of the bookkeeping to Hallmark newest changes is the rules CPA Group LLC, a fullpertaining to the W-9 form service CPA firm and (Request for Taxpayer Best of Tampa awardIdentification Number and winner in the Certified Certification), which allows Public Accountants catefor the inclusion of not only gory for the last 10 years. the familiar dependent With its two locacount allowance but also to Hallmark CPA Group LLC tions, 710 Oakfield Dr., include certain deductions helps businesses reach their Ste. 262 in Brandon and as part of the allowance financial goals.

2203 N. Lois Ave., 9th within payroll taxes. floor in Tampa, Hallmark “This is a blessing and a CPA Group is devoted to curse, as always is the case helping business owners with tax law,” Hall said. “The manage their finances so they can spend blessing being that, if used properly, it can their time building their businesses and mean more money in your paycheck; doing what they love. however, the strain comes when it is It offers a broad range of services to overused or the lower tax taken from the help clients keep their businesses running paycheck is not understood.” smoothly, including receivables, payables He said it can be a big surprise when and payroll management. It prepares a client that normally has a large refund is financial statements, offers bookkeeping informed they owe money. services, cash flow and budgeting analy“Please carefully calculate the new sis, attest services, tax planning and com- W-9,” he said. pliance services as well as financial and Hallmark CPA Group develops a retirement planning. coordinated plan for each of its clients to Hallmark CPA Group Founder manage accounting requirements and Andrew J. Hall has more than 20 years of reduce tax liabilities, helping businesses experience in the practice of public track expenses, manage cash flow and accounting and consulting and during that capitalize on opportunities for growth. time has prepared more than 500 finan“We take great pride in our clients’ cial audits for clients. successes and help steer them toward “We become a business partner with their goals,” said Hall. “If you need help our clients who are local businesses to with anything, please get in touch with help them reach their financial goals,” he us.” said.

For more information, visit As part of this approach, Hallmark www.hcpagrp.com or call 283-0642.

Volume 15, Issue 3

Phoenix House Florida – A Place For Hope, Healing, Recovery

By Kelly Wise Valdes

The president and CEO of Phoenix House Florida, Maria Alvarez, is excited about the difference it is making in the community.

“Phoenix House Florida is proud to be a local nonprofit who has been delivering lifechanging treatment to our Phoenix House Florida is a nonprofit and nationally local community for nearly 30 recognized and accredited program. years,” said Alvarez. “We are Florida seems like a picture-perfect proud to be the expert in the area to paradise with its mild weather, beautiful meet the unprecedented need for beaches and unlimited activities at our access to substance use treatment in fingertips. However, despite these Tampa and the surrounding area.” sunny days, many Floridians suffer from Because everyone is unique, treatvarious types of substance addictions. ment at Phoenix House Florida is indiPhoenix House Florida is a nonvidualized to meet the particular needs profit and nationally recognized and of each patient. Its programming can accredited program, specializing in the accommodate stays from as short as treatment and prevention of substance one week to as long as one year. Also, use and mental health disorders. it has contracted with most insurance Delivering the highest quality of care providers to accept almost all insurance with professionalism and respect, plans. It also offers an affordable selfPhoenix House Florida provides outpay option available. standing and accessible treatment to Phoenix House Florida offers a adults and teens. Over the past eight wide variety of programs and services years, more than 14,000 patients have to meet most clients’ needs, including sought treatment at Phoenix House inpatient and outpatient programs, all of Florida. which utilize the latest evidence-based Phoenix House Florida is accreditpractices. Phoenix House Florida also ed by CARF, the Commission on provides educational and supportive Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, services to family members, friends, a nationally recognized standard of significant others and the community. excellence. In 2012, CARF awarded “Our goal has always been and will Phoenix House Florida accreditation continue to be to help more people live confirming performance at the highest a healthier, more purposeful life in level of excellence, and it is fully recovery,” said Alvarez. licensed by the State of Florida For more information, visit Department of Children and Families. www.phoenixfl.org.

March 2020

Page 17

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

New Chill Coffee, Hemp & Botanical Social Brings Artisan Market Back To Valrico

By Libby Hopkins

There is a saying san market, and Henney that goes, “Good ideas will continue the tradition. start with brainstorming.

“We have decided that it Great ideas start with would be great to relaunch coffee.” Lisa Henney and provide a place for the would definitely agree community to gather and with this saying, support local artisans and because coffee is her businesses like ours,” business.

Henney said. “We are “I have been starting in early March and involved in the restauwill have one every second rant and cafe business Lisa Henney and husband Tom and fourth Sunday of the most of my adult life,” Quigley are the owners of Chill month. Occasionally, we Henney said. “I live with Caw-Fee, a new shop and CBD may have a special Friday store that is located at 2208 my husband, Tom, and Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. night or Saturday gatherover the past five years I ing.” The market is called have been creating new ways to Valrico Artisan Faire. help my husband with his ailIf you ask what makes Chill ments through more natural Caw-Fee different from other coffee solutions and healthier options. I shops in the area, Henney will tell wanted to create a place where you, “Caw-Fee, although it is my the community could gather New York way of saying coffee, it over a cup of ‘caw-fee,’ a also means Cannabinoids And freshly brewed tea or simple Wellness For Every Experience,” pastry.” Henney is the owner of Henney said. “We have a hemp the new coffee and CBD shop store embedded within our coffee in Valrico called Chill Caw-Fee. shop and will be providing educaHenney is originally from Queens, tion for patients. We also will be hosting New York, and you can hear her New open mic night, private events and other Yorker accent when she says “caw-fee.” fun gathering activities for the communi“We have been traveling the state ty.” and country helping to educate people on Henney also believes strongly in the benefits of cannabis and hemp CBD. keeping things local. “The local businessSo, when the laws changed here in es drive the communitY,” Henney said.

Florida, it just made sense to combine the To learn more about Chill Caw-Fee, two things we do naturally under one visit www.chillcawfee.com or call Henney roof,” Henney said. “We moved into the T at 549-9068. The shop is located at 2208 Marie’s location on Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico and is open and opened our doors earlier this month.” Monday-Friday from 6 a.m.-3 p.m. and T-Marie’s traditionally hosted an artiSaturday and Sunday from 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

NEW

MAC & CHEESE

Dr. Earl J. Lennard Scholarship Fund Draws Stowers Support

By Linda Chion Kenney

fund, run in partnership with the Riverview Woman’s Club. To be eligible for scholarship consideration, a senior must live in Riverview or have a family member in good standing with the Riverview chamber or Riverview Woman’s Club.

Behind the Stowers Lennard scholarship drive were teachers Elissa Walters and Stowers Elementary School Principal Catherine ‘Missy’ Lennard stands with teachers Carly Brook, left, and Elissa Walters. The Carly Brook, who smiling photo in the background is of Richard “Dick” Stowers, a attended Dr. Earl’s lifelong friend of the Lennard family.

Celebration of Life at Lennard High In honor of their principal, and in on January 11. posthumous memory of Catherine “Just hearing about his life I felt ‘Missy’ Lennard’s father, the staff at changed a little bit, just by knowing Stowers Elementary School raised $1,200 for the newly launched Dr. Earl who he was and what he did for kids, how important it was for him to figure J. Lennard Scholarship Fund. out what the kids needed and do right “It was a huge surprise,” said by them,” Walters said.

Catherine, principal of Richard “Dick” Brook said she was moved by Stowers Elementary School in “how genuine his character was,” a FishHawk. “It really means a lot to trait she finds in Catherine as well. me,” “She has that focus, ‘Let’s do Her father, the namesake of Dr. Earl J. Lennard High School in Ruskin, what’s best for kids,’ ” Brook said.

“She pushes us to think for ourselves died on December 23, 2019 at age 77 and she’s always there for us if we after being hospitalized with a proneed support.” longed illness since Thanksgiving in Chamber President Mike Jones 2018. One of nine siblings from a said the scholarship program “will help farming family, Dr. Earl entered the make sure we never forget [Dr. Hillsborough County school system as Lennard’s] contributions to this coma first grader at Palm River munity and, in a small way, continue Elementary and retired in 2005 as its the work he devoted his life to.” superintendent of schools. He also To support the fund, call the chamserved as the Hillsborough County ber at 813-234-5944; visit Supervisor of Elections. www.RiverviewChamber.com. The At its January 17 dinner, the chamber is in the CenterState Bank Greater Riverview Chamber of building at 10101 Bloomingdale Ave. Commerce launched the scholarship

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Page 18

Volume 15, Issue 3

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Interesting Women Of Hillsborough County: Simmons, Brandon, Moseley & More

By Charles Nelson

Our history is a story about, and for, all of us. Sometimes that history is viewed through a single lens producing only a partial story of “long-dead white men.” There are other ways to explore our history. By looking at history from different angles, we can expand ‘Victo , First Source: Florida Comria Joyce Ely.’ s n o m im S and enhance our mission on ‘Mabel f Flowers.’ -28-1997. the Status of Women .

LaadTriybuneoat Newspapers.com: 12 understanding. In mp Source: Ta March, during Women’s History Rouen, France. Following the war, she Month, we can do just that by rememworked as a nurse in Perry, Florida at bering a few of the countless a time when a severe outbreak of Hillsborough County women who conmalaria and typhoid fever gripped the tributed to our shared history. region. As a member of Florida’s Board Janie Wheeler Bing operated the of Health, she traveled a nine-county Bing Rooming House in Plant City from area, often carrying a gun safely 1925 to 1970. The Bing Rooming locked in the trunk of her car for proHouse was one of the few hotels protection in this rough and tumble section viding a haven for visiting African of Florida. Ms. Ely returned to Ruskin Americans during Florida’s segregation in 1943. There she opened the first era. Black businessmen, truck drivers, county-run health clinic in Ruskin and travelers, nationally known sports stars was the only trained medical profesand musicians were all welcomed to sional in town. She was the only perone of the very few Plant City hotels son licensed in Ruskin to give injecavailable to them. Bing also operated tions from her small office. Her threadthe Seminole Restaurant, next door to bare office didn’t even have running the hotel, until she retired in 1955. The water, forcing her to sterilize needles at Bing Rooming House is now listed on her home. Today’s Joyce Ely Medical the National Register of Historic Center in Ruskin honors her memory.

Places. Today, the building serves as a Bernice ‘Jeanie’ Smith Tomaini museum of the African American expe- from Gibsonton was the diminutive wife rience in Plant City during Florida’s of the giant Al Tomaini. While her hussegregationist past. band got most of the publicity, Victoria Joyce Ely was a World Jeanie—born without legs—billed herWar I nurse for the British Army at self as ‘The World’s Only Half Woman’

controls for industrial plant emissions and was a respected environmentalist.

There are so many other Hillsborough County women whose stories could have been featured here. A ’ today. ing House .edu.

‘The Worl m d’s o Stran o gest few of those R g ‘Bin usf.usf usfnews.w Married Couple.’

Source: w include Sarah Source: Showmensmuseum.com.

Dormany Boyett and Victoria standing 2’6” in height. She was, howSeward Brandon, who were the ever, every bit Al’s equal in the ‘founding mothers’ of late 19th-century sideshow world of the circus carnival. towns named in honor of their late Many in Gibsonton considered her as husbands.

Julia Daniels Moseley was the ‘grandmother’ of the town’s circus one of the original settlers in Limona in workers. In Ruskin, Jeanie raised her the 1880s.

She detailed the difficult two adopted daughters and outlived conditions of pioneer life in a collection her husband by 37 years. She worked of letters later published in a book tirelessly to help shape Gibsonton into titled Come to My Sunland. Edna a safe, off-season haven for circus workers. She continued to manage the Giles Fuller, born in Plant City, was the Giant’s Fish Camp after Al’s death until first woman elected to the Florida Legislature in 1928, representing her death in 1999, always fighting to Orange County. retain the character of her adopted These stories, and others, are home. wonderful reminders that women have Mabel Claprood Simmons was contributed so much to Hillsborough often called the “First Lady of Florida County’s history.

Flowers.” She was a member of the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame. It was in Ruskin where she spent her profesCharles Nelson Bio Charles Nelson holds a MA degree in sional life in the floral business. At one History from George Mason University time, Mrs. Simmons was the largest and taught as an adjunct instructor at flower producer in Florida. She is credHCC (Dale Mabry). He is also affiliated with Tampa Bay History Center as a ited with developing gladiolas that volunteer docent, researcher and sprouted early enough to avoid frost. community lecturer, with an emphasis on She is also credited with developing South Hillsborough County history.

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March 2020

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

813Preps Expands Local High School Baseball Coverage

By Nick Nahas

Since its inception in advertisers, spon2017, 813Preps.com has sors and donations. come a long way. Valrico In August 2019, resident and founder of 813Preps hosted its the site Jarrett Guthrie has first annual golf brought on five local jourtournament to help nalists to help expand high fund coverage of school baseball game covthe 2020 season. erage in Hillsborough The response from County. The crew averthe baseball comages anywhere from six munity was tremenJarrett Guthrie interviews former to 10 games per week. dous, with about Jesuit player McGuire Weaver.

The website has a new look after 110 golfers. Over 20 baskets of items getting revamped in the off-season. The were also donated from businesses to site gained a lot of momentum in 2019, help benefit the fundraiser. as the staff covered a total of 105 games “When I started, it was kind of about in the season, along with 25 features, getting out there and getting some kids weekly rankings for the 10-week regular some attention, getting their names recseason, nightly roundups with box scores ognized for the hard work that studentand a wrap-up of every game, along with athletes put in. But now, to see that we giving postseason awards to the players have been 100 percent embraced by not and traveling to Fort Myers for a week to just the baseball community, but the high cover four Hillsborough County teams school athletic community as a whole, that made it to the state tournament. This has been really gratifying,” said Guthrie. season, the site has started a weekly Guthrie was approached by Ben baseball notebook that is more featureHenderson, Strawberry Crest’s track and driven, as well as weekly top performers. field and cross country coach, and Bill One player is selected by the staff, and Jenkins, Gaither’s track and field and the other is chosen from a Twitter poll. cross country coach, about 813Preps Winners receive a T-shirt. being the platform for a coach-driven con“The growth that the site has had in tent coverage of track and field. The site its first three years was amazing,” said helps out with the social media coverage Guthrie, “but the uptick we’ve made from and the promotion aspects, and the two last year to this year with the new webcoaches provide the coverage. site, a commitment to social media, all “Im very hopeful that this is somethose things have ticked up and we’re thing that we can do more of in the growing our audience, and that’s somefuture,” said Guthrie. To donate or thing that I never really knew if we would become an advertiser of 813Preps, ever do.” mesor visit 813Preps.com. For live game 813Preps is completely funded by coverage, follow 813Preps on Twitter.

Page 19

Immanuel Lutheran Commemorates Its Golden Year Anniversary Immanuel Lutheran Church of Brandon will commemorate 50 years on Sunday, April 5. The church began celebrating in September with its annual ‘Back To Church Sunday’ and has had multiple events leading up its anniversary.

Rev. Kenneth Farnsworth, who has been the pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church for more than 20 years, talked about how the church will observe its anniversary, “There will be a focus on our halfcentury of God’s grace at Immanuel, as reflected in our mission statement of ‘Sharing the Love, Joy and Peace of Jesus.’”

The idea of Immanuel Lutheran Church was birthed in October of 1969 after a few local families read an ad in the Brandon newspaper soliciting for Lutherans to start a Brandon congregation. On April 5, 1970, Immanuel Lutheran Church held its first worship service with 91 people.

Founding members Don and Rita Fowler remember that day. “We’ve come a long way. God has been so good to us,” said Rita. Her husband, Don, added, “God has blessed us so much.”

The Fowlers were one of the five couples in the original group. The effort was led by Nate and Eunice Kraxburger, who placed the newspaper ad, seeking

By Amanda Boston

others interested in planting a Lutheran Missouri Synod congregation.

Other families included Jack and Mary Lou Nash, Larry and Katie Unterfer and Dan and Willa Jackson.

Rita continued, “My grandfather, George Lambertus, had been a part of starting Redeemer Lutheran Church in Louisville, Kentucky in 1888.

It was part of my family’s heritage to start a church.”

Situated next to the church is the Immanuel Lutheran School. In September, the school will celebrate 40 years. The church acknowledges the school’s vital role to the community as it reaches students and families with the gospel through its academics. Immanuel Lutheran School offers programs from preschool through eighth grade.

More information on the school can be found at www.ilsbrandon.com. For more information on the church and its 50-year celebration, visit www.godsoloved.org or call 689-1787.

Sunday services are held at 9 a.m. for Sunday school/Bible study and worship services are held at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Immanuel Lutheran Church and School is located at 2913 John Moore Rd. in Brandon.

Page 20

Volume 15, Issue 3

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Umiker Leaves Hillsborough County Fair In Good Hands After 25-Year Run

Find Fresh Fruit And Veggies At New Hope United Methodist Church Co-Op

up in the fair. Holcomb joined the Hillsborough County Fair six years ago as a volunteer and most recently worked as the fair administrator.

“There’s not many people who give everything he’s given to the fair for as long as he did,” Holcomb said about Umiker. “Tom meant a lot to this fair.”

Umiker said he started with the fair when it moved from the Florida State Fairgrounds to the thenTampa Stadium, nicknamed the Tom Umiker, the outgoing Hillsborough County ‘Big Sombrero’ and briefly known Fair manager, with the newly named manager, as Houlihan’s Stadium. There until Suzanne Holcomb, who served under Umiker as 2005, the fair found a tentative the fair administrator. home at the Barn at Winthrop on After 25 years as the Hillsborough 11349 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview.

County Fair manager, Tom Umiker is With phosphate trust fund money, pristepping down, but he doesn’t plan to go vate donations and thousands of hours to far from those left behind to take it to the carve out the land, the County next level, including Suzanne Holcomb, Fairgrounds took root at its permanent the newly named manager. home off SR 60 in Dover at 215 Sydney “We truly owe a lot to Tom Umiker for Washer Rd. making the fair what it is today,” said Funding for two livestock buildings is Hillsborough County Commissioner Stacy working its way through the Florida White. “He really put the Hillsborough Legislature, set to be built adjacent to an County Fair on the map.” indoor and outdoor exhibition pavilion Florida Strawberry Festival Manager used for a variety of purposes and Paul Davis agreed. rentals, including weddings and fundrais“Tom Umiker is an iconic person,” ers.

Davis said, “and my go-to guy. When I The 2020 fair is scheduled for started my job, I would call him on a daily Saturday through Tuesday, October 17basis to get information and ask him, 20 and 24-27, with an emphasis on edu‘What would you do?’ ‘What should I do?’ cating and preparing kids for showmanI truly am going to miss him, but I still ship.

For rental and fair information, call know he’s always a phone call away.”

737-3247.

Visit Taking over Umiker’s job is Holcomb, a mom raising her kids in the fair tradition, www.HillsboroughCountyFair.com to learn more. who herself was a 4-H student growing

participants the cost is just $5 for for each unit of food, with a limit of two units per household.

“We have a wonderful team of volunteers that help with set-up and assisting the members of the co-op through picking New Hope United Methodist Church located in Brandon sponsors a food co-op twice a month for $5 per unit. up their food,” said Although gaining in popularity Hall. “We wouldn’t be able to do this recently, food cooperatives have actumission if it weren’t for our volunteers.” ally been in existence for more than Anyone can participate in New 150 years. Typical food co-ops are Hope’s food co-op; you do not need to local volunteer organizations that buy be a member of the church. Also, no produce in bulk and divide up between income level is required. In order to the members. The produce changes participate, co-op members are asked according to the season. to pre-register by calling the church New Hope United Methodist office at 689-4161 or by going online Church in Brandon sponsors a co-op to the church’s website at www.findthat meets on the first and third newhope.com and clicking ‘Food CoTuesday every month. The church has op’ on the home page. been successfully sponsoring this co“Since all the food is freshly op since March 2014. Linda Legris bought the day before, this helps us Hall, administrative assistant at New purchase the right amount,” said Hall.

Hope, has been involved with the coVolunteers are always op since the beginning. welcome. Anyone interested in volun“The food co-op has been a real teering can also call the church office blessing to me because I have met or email Hall many wonderful people that have been at Linda@findnewhope.com. impacted by this mission,” said Hall.

The co-op meets on the first and “And I’ve made new friends that will be third Tuesday of each month at 10 my friends forever.” a.m. in the New Hope Family Life Currently, the co-op averages Center, located behind the sanctuary between 35-40 people. The food pack- at 213 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon. ages consist of fresh fruits and vegeta- Visit www.findnewhope.com or follow bles and a dozen eggs, valued at on Facebook at New Hope United approximately $40. However, for co-op Methodist Church.

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Page 22

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Student Has Pick Of Military Academies

By Libby Hopkins

Former First ment, especially Lady Eleanor integrity. I’ve develRoosevelt once oped a sense of said, “The future how to live life corbelongs to those rectly, and to benewho believe in the fit myself and other beauty of their people. The honor dreams.” John Huy code that I follow Vuong of has incredibly Bloomingdale has changed the an amazing and amount of integrity beautiful future I inherit and will John Huy Vuong is a senior at ahead of him. help take me a High School and has recently long way in life Vuong is a senior at Bloomingdale earned appointments and nominations to 3 Bloomingdale High successfully.” military academies.

School and has recently earned appointVuong’s guidance counselor at ments and nominations to the United Bloomingdale High School, Jennifer States Military Academy at West Point, Young, is proud of all his academic the United States Air Force Academy accomplishments. “Many students manand the United States Naval Academy as age to achieve academic success in high a member of the Class of 2024 from school, but it is the exceptional student Congressman Ross Spano. “Growing up, who manages to be very involved in one of my favorite things to do was listen extracurricular activities, be a member of to my dad’s stories regarding how the numerous clubs, plays sports and still American soldiers had rescued his dad have an impressive GPA,” Young said. from the Viet Cong before the Fall of “John is a multitasker who puts one hunSaigon in April 1975,” Vuong said. dred percent into everything he does.

“Among the many stories, my dad would John will be an indisputable asset to the share his experiences serving in the college he attends—his resilience and United States Air Force, which has creat- maturity will only fuel his capacity as a ed my sense of American pride and the difference-maker, capable of anything he desire to become a leader of character, sets his mind to do. I recommend him integrity and to serve my country.” without reservation and can’t wait to see From a very young age, Vuong has what he does next!” always had an interest in becoming a Vuong is now tasked with deciding pilot. “I began to realize the best way to which military appointment he will achieve my life goal to become a pilot by choose, “I plan to pursue a career in attending one of the Service Academies,” United States military service,” Vuong Vuong said. “In addition, being on the said. “Serving in the military is not for AFJROTC Drill Team for my first two everyone, but for me there is no better years of high school has heavily conway to become a better leader of charactributed to my own character developter and to serve my country.”

Volume 15, Issue 3

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Opens Bloomingdale Sq. Location With 26 Big Screen TVs

By Michelle Caceres

Tuesdays, Wing Wednesdays $9.99 Fajita Thursdays, $12.99 Surf and Turf Fridays and Triple Play Saturdays (a meal that includes a first Beef ‘O’ Brady’s has opened in Bloomingdale Square. course, entrée Beef ‘O’ Brady’s has opened a new and dessert) starting at $13.99. Daily corporate-owned restaurant in the happy hour food and drink specials are Publix-anchored Bloomingdale Square also offered. shopping center at 889 E. Boyette Springs resident Vicki Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. The Olson and her son, Kyle, were in the 225-seat restaurant features a mood for a burger, so they stopped by refreshed look, including a large horsethe restaurant to grab a bite to eat. shoe bar with 20 beers on tap, an outThey have eaten at other Beef ‘O’ door patio space and new kitchen inno- Brady’s in the past and wanted to see vations. the new store. They loved the new look.

Its walls are adorned with 26 65“The floors are lovely and I like that inch large-screen televisions, allowing the restaurant is brighter and more every customer an unobstructed viewopen,” said Vicki. “This is going to be a ing experience of sporting events from great place to watch sports.”

March Madness to the World Series.

Elliott said the Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Beef ‘O’ Brady’s CEO Chris Elliott brand, including the original location said the restaurant is not so much a just a few miles away on Kings Ave. new concept as it is taking what they’ve opened by Founders Jim and Jeanette learned in the last 35 years and assem- Mellody, offers a bar, a place to watch bling it into this new restaurant. sports and a place for families, all in the “This is the footprint for our future,” same spot. he said.

“The essence of our brand hasn’t While the visual look has been changed,” he said. “Beef ‘O’ Brady’s revised, its menu still includes all the has a strong connection to the commufavorite dishes and daily values cusnity and serves good food at a good tomers have come to expect from the value and is a good place for families,” restaurant. Well-rounded everyday valhe said. For more information about ues include $5.99 Burger Mondays, Beef ‘O’ Brady’s, visit www.beefo$5.99 Tacos and $1.99 Kids Meal bradys.com or call 564-8894.

March 2020

Page 23

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Lady Bulls Basketball Dynamic Duo Secures 1,000 Career Points Each

By Nick Nahas November 15 to play for Rollins College in Orlando.

“We came in and created our legacy here,” said Leigh. “As a freshman, I didn’t believe that I would be able to accomplish that, but as the years went by, it became more of a realistic goal that I thought I could achieve.”

One week later, Nya King, the Lady Bulls’ leading scorer at 14 points per game, became the fourth player in school history to The seniors hold up their framed jerseys on score her 1,000th career point Senior Night. against Blake on January 24. She Erin Leigh and Nya King, as a pair, has several offers to play at the next have accomplished something that has level, but hasn’t made the decision on never been done before in Bloomingdale where she wants to play yet. girls basketball history. Leigh and King “I feel like I’m a part of something bigare the third and fourth players in program history to score 1,000 career points, ger than just me,” said King. “I felt relieved because this is something that and the first pair of teammates to accomI’ve been dreaming about since I was a plish this milestone in the same season. freshman, so to actually do it feels amazThey are the first players since Erica ing.”

Woodard (2004) and Paris Moore (2008) Bower said that King and Leigh have to reach 1,000 points. excelled in the classroom and are leaving “Erin and Nya have helped change the program in better shape than when the culture of our program,” said Head they first got there. They started over 95 Coach Joel Bower. “Their passion for the games together and won 64% of those game and will to get better everyday has games. set the example for our younger players.”

“I think that these young ladies reachErin Leigh became the third Lady Bull ing the 1,000-point milestone says that ever to score her 1,000th career point. we have kids here who work hard,” said She did it in front of the Bloomingdale Bower. home crowd on January 17 against The seniors led their team to a fanBrandon. The team’s second leading tastic season with a 19-7 record and a scorer at 12.5 points per game also regional playoff birth for the second time became the first girl’s basketball player in four years. They have made an impact from the school to sign on to play college on the floor and in the hearts of their basketball in the last 10 years when she teammates and fans. signed her National Letter of Intent on

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Volume 15, Issue 3

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

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March 2020

Volume 15, Issue 3

Healthcare Solutions Team Is Here To Help

Ph: 657-2418

Southwest Florida Rheumatology Welcomes New Doctor

Do you need help Southwest Florida navigating the comRheumatology is proud to welplex and often confuscome Gina Prakash, MD as the ing healthcare insurlatest provider to their team of ance market? Ken physicians. Dr. Prakash is board Bardales and his certified in internal medicine and The crew at Window Genie of team at Healthcare Southeast Tampa Bay offers more rheumatology; she chose to spethan just window cleaning.

Solutions Team are cialize in rheumatology because an offshore passage next Together, they combine the right people to she values making difference in Southwest Florida month. over 150 years of expehelp you. It is a local the lives of patients whose disRheumatology welcomes The company, which rience to offer a team health insurance comeases are often misunderstood. offers year-round sailing approach to every closing to ensure that pany with ‘A’ ratings She finds that it is often like solving a puzSunflower Café, a popular sushi instruction that is personal, their clients’ transactions are handled to that represents the zle to determine an accurate diagnosis restaurant, has re-opened after a perfection. All American Title Insurance, top national carriers, three-month renovation. Be sure to enjoyable and affordable, and effective treatment plan. With the Inc. has helped thousands of families such as Aetna, visit it at 3452 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. is taking sailors on a 17specialty’s ever-growing research, it is in Valrico. day and night live-aboard achieve their dream of homeownership; it one of the most exciting and challenging Cigna, United trip on an Island Packet 40 compares with the biggest companies in Healthcare, Humana, etc. The professionbranches of medicine to practice.

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Three days of preparation, technology and knowledge but keeps the al licensed agents working there are pre-race activities in Little Harbor and St. small town community and customers at ready to help you with your coverage Window Genie Offers More Than Petersburg and all meals at sea are proheart. Its years of experience and comneeds, specializing in health, accident, Clean Windows mitment to excellence make All American critical illness, dental, vision and life plans. vided. The trip will also include four days Mike and Mindy Barker of Window and nights in Isla Mujeres, Mexico.

Title your number one ‘Home Town Title Call the team today to discuss Genie of Southeast Tampa Bay are excitTo learn more, visit www.flagshipsailCompany.’ options for you and your family on 689ed to bring their services to the area. ing.com, email office@flagshipsailing.com All American is located at 679 W. 8800 or visit their website at hst-branOffering gutter clean-out, house washing, or call 727-946-6542.

Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. www.allamtidon.com. The office is located at 1040 E. concrete and paver washing and sealing tle.com or call 684-3330.

Brandon Blvd. and is open Monday to and holiday lighting, in addition to winAll American Title Insurance, Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. dow washing, the Barkers stated, “We Inc. Celebrates 25th wash windows and a whole lot more!”

Anniversary Flagship Sailing Offers To contact Window Genie, call 906Offshore Training Cruise All American Title Insurance, 5200 or visit www.windowgenie.com/seInc. is a locally owned and operFlagship Sailing, based tampa. ated agency. On March 5, Susan in Ruskin, is offering an You can also find the business on Luther, the owner/president, opportunity for sailors to Facebook by searching Window Genie gathered her team together to accomplish a ASA 104 or of Southeast Tampa. celebrate its 25th anniversary.

ASA 106 certification in conjunction with Continued on Next Page

Page 26

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Business Column Continued...................

New Vet Clinic Offers Affordable Alternative To Veterinary ER

UrgentVet, the first dedicated urgent care clinic for pets, is expanding into the Brandon area, opening a new clinic in the BayCare HealthHub at 2446 UrgentVet, the first dedicated urgent care clinic for pets, is Bloomingdale Ave. expanding into the Brandon area, opening a new clinic in the in Brandon.

BayCare HealthHub. UrgentVet fills the meet the growing and insufficient senior widening care gap that exists between housing needs of Plant City. I was traditional daytime veterinary practices inspired by the vision that was shared and specialized 24-hour emergency hoswith me by the late owner, Mark Jordan.” pitals, providing affordable after-hours “Mark’s goal was to create a culture relief on weeknights, weekends and holiof caring. The Solinity team truly underdays year-round. “We’re so excited to be stands what Palm Cove is all about and opening up our next location in Brandon every team member listens and commuto serve pets and pet parents,” said Dr. nicates at all levels to stay focused on Jim Dories, founder of UrgentVet. “We creating the type of community that the specifically sought out Brandon because founders envisaged,” said Mike Tatum, we know it’s a very family and pet-friendly owner of Palm Cove. community, and the opportunity to secure Palm Cove is expected to open in fall space in the BayCare HealthHub just 2020 at 2102 N. Shannon Ave. in Plant reinforced our decision to open a clinic City and is now leasing. A leasing and here.” hospitality center will open at 110 S. UrgentVet - Brandon will be open Collins St. in Plant City in the downtown from 3 to 11 p.m. Monday through Friday district. To schedule an appointment and and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday. For learn more, visit PalmCoveLiving.com or more information, visit UrgentVet.com. call 444-5299.

New Senior Living Community Coming To Plant City

Thai Restaurant Under New Management

Local Plant City senior living developWhen you’re in the mood for the best ers are partnering with nationally recogauthentic Thai food, think of Thai Hot (fornized Solinity to bring world-class, locally merly Thai Xpress). Whether you’re lookowned senior housing options to Plant ing for a family takeout or a date night City. Palm Cove will consist of 47 beautidinner for two, the menu is sure to have ful apartments something designed to meet for everythe needs of senone. The iors, offering food is assisted living, made fresh memory care and while you respite services. wait and the The community spices are will offer assisadjusted to tance with all your liking, activities of daily from mild to living, including HOT. Thai culinary services, Hot is famiPalm Cove Senior Living Community is now under social programly-owned construction in Plant City. ming, therapies and operatand pharmacy to ensure the physical, ed, taking great pride in providing fresh, emotional and spiritual well-being of resihigh-quality ingredients for a fast and delidents. cious meal at an affordable price. The Solinity CEO Josh Crisp said, Thai Hot family welcomes you for dine-in, “Solinity is excited to form this partnership get takeout and call ahead when ordering with the local owners of the community to for lunch and dinner.

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Dated at Brandon, Florida, this 23 day of March, 2020

Volume 15, Issue 3

Thai Hot can be found in the same plaza as the neighborhood Wal-Mart at 921 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon. Call 643-THAI (8424) to learn more or to place an order.

Cardel Homes Announces Final Opportunities In Sandhill Ridge

If you were looking to Grace Manor at Hunters Creek opens new independent and assisted living facility at 765 W. Grant St. in Plant purchase a property or build City. To learn more, visit in Cardel Homes’ award-winwww.gracemanorhunterscreek.com or call 863-873-6222. ning community, Sandhill including payroll services, legal compliRidge, you’d better make a decision ance and recruiting. Though it has a prosoon, as only a few opportunities remain. fessional suite, services are primarily The gated community offers five floor plans ranging from 2,010 to 3,132 square available via a dedicated client portal online, offering the most flexible and confeet. venient way to get professional HR supGuests can tour Cardel’s fully furport at a fraction of the cost of a full-time nished model home at 11409 Tanner HR professional. For more details, visit its Ridge Pl. in Riverview, off of Boyette Rd., website, www.myhradvisor.com, or call 1or call the Sandhill Ridge sales office at 866-4MYHRPRO. 571-7171 for more information.

AdventHealth Closing The Gap On Healthcare Needs

AdventHealth just opened a 24-hour, 16-bed emergency room at 305 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon to help serve the healthcare needs of East Hillsborough County. The emergency room is the latest in the company’s expansion plans to create a connected network of healthcare throughout Tampa Bay. Denyse BalesChubb, president and CEO of AdventHealth Tampa and AdventHealth Brandon ER, said, “We are excited to expand our network of care to make a significant impact on improving the lives of all we serve. This is a growing community with growing health and wellness needs, and we want to be part of the solution of making high-quality healthcare easily accessible to anyone in need of care.”

By adding this emergency room, families now have direct access to a healthcare system close to home. The AdventHealh Brandon ER will be staffed with board-certified emergency medicine physicians and nurses who specialize in emergency care for adults and children.

Additionally, the ER will offer a dedicated AdventHealth ambulance to transport patients if they have extended healthcare needs.

New Human Resources Advisor Office Opens Vong Keovongsa, MSHM, PHR opened his human resources support services business recently at 1219 Millennium Pkwy., Ste. 138 in Brandon.

His company, My HR Advisor, LLC, provides advisory and HR support services for small to medium business owners,

Humana Hiring Almost 200 Full-Time Positions Leading Health and well-being company Humana Inc recently announced it is looking to fill close to 200 new national phone sales positions in Tamp Bay. The inside sales agent positions will provide national phone sales and enrollment assistance for the company’s Medicare benefit plans and specialty products. The positions are located at Humana’s call center in Tampa at NetPark on 5701 E. Hillsborough Ave.

Grade A Spanish Tutors Is Open For Business

Looking for some help with learning Spanish? The employees of Grade A Spanish Tutors can help. The new business serves Brandon, Riverview, Lithia and Valrico for children and adults struggling to learn the language. According to Owner Kevin Kemp, a Lithia resident, the its tutor has more than 40 years of teaching and tutoring experience.

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

Free Facial Beauty Seminar At River Hills Country Club

Dr. Rich Castellano, a face-lift specialist at ImageLift, will be hosting a facial beauty social mixer seminar. The event will be held at the River Hills Country Club on 3943 New River Hills Pkwy. in Valrico at 1p.m. on Thursday, April 9, and lunch will be served. Along with information on the latest facial beauty assistance, there will be a raffle with a chance to win a syringe of filler. To book your seat at this seminar, please call 888-875-3223 or look for more details at www.imagelift.com.

March 2020

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 27

Page 28

Volume 15, Issue 3

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Jennifer McCafferty th

r Jenniferty e f McCaf iddle

nan M Mulren and Plant l Schoo h School g H City i

Teacher Of The Mon

come a teacher?

Why did you decide to be my love chestra teacher because of I decided to become an Or nt sharing music with others, is spe for music. My entire day and it's really wonderful.

a teacher?

What is a goal of yours as nts the fundamentals of a teacher is to teach stude By as al d go y re M o s n o Sp provides students with g stringed instrument; this a in g yin n pla ig S es through their music.

Florida eded to express themselv ne ls too the ls a n Professio out be surprised to find out ab What would your students you? scuba diving and sed to discover that I enjoy pri sur be uld wo nts de My stu in Belize. have dove the Blue Hole Hidden Talent: is that I have an One of my hidden talents a very accuow excellent arm and can thr rate spiral football.

Cafeteria: but have I always bring my lunch ich a few enjoyed the chicken sandw times. and why?

What is your favorite book Shrugged by My favorite book is Atlas d it several Ayn Rand, and I have rea Jennifer Mc like it so Orchestr Cafferty has be times. The reason why I e a teache s ge en all ch r for 18 y n an lly rea it se cau ears. much is be ch mu so s ke ma the way I think. The book but it always seems that I y, all hic sop ilo ph sense to me t is completely different. approach life in a way tha the Rays game, Hobbies: l baseball on TV, going to na sio fes pro ing tch wa is My hobby all! y baseball- all things baseb and watching my son pla a Gandhi to see in the world. -Mahatm Be the change that you wish

Quote:

Hillsborough County Commissioners Approve Impact Fee Increase For Construction Needs

Staff Report

Hillsborough have not been raised County in nearly 15 years.”

Commissioners voted Following the last month to increase vote, the school the amount of impact impact fees will doufees local schools will ble from $4,000 to receive. $8,000. Impact fees in “Students in other school districts Hillsborough County include Orange Public Schools will County, which The Hillsborough County Board of have a more conCounty Commissioners recently voted receives $8,784; to increase impact fees for public ducive learning enviPasco County, which schools. The money will be used to ronment thanks to a receives $9,028; build new schools like Sumner High vote tonight by the School, which is scheduled to open in Broward County, August.

Hillsborough Board of which receives County Commissioners,” said Tanya Arja, $9,049; and Polk County, which receives media outreach with Hillsborough County $10,484.

Public Schools. “County Commissioners “What happened tonight will allow us voted to increase school impact fees, to keep up with the growth. We won’t which will help our district properly plan have to wait to build schools, we won’t for population growth.” have overcrowded schools like we expeAccording to Arja, the new impact rience now, especially in South fees will give the district $59.4 million Hillsborough County. We’ll have the right annually, an increase of more than $30 number of students in the buildings, million per year. which will only help with student suc“A recent study commissioned by our cess,” said Superintendent Jeff Eakins, district determined the need for 38 new just moments after the vote. schools in the next 15 years to keep up The Hillsborough County Board of with the number of new families moving County Commissioners sets the impact into our area,” she said. “Because of fee rate. Developers then pay the oneFlorida’s inadequate state funding for time fee when a new home is built. schools, we may still not have enough Impact fees can only be used to pay for funding for all of our needs.” growth and cannot be used on repairs, Arja explained that the fees had not maintenance, technology or security for previously been raised in close to 15 existing schools. years.

“Our district is grateful to commis“In that time, the southern part of our sioners for voting for this much-needed district has experienced incredible growth funding that will accelerate a plan to build and that growth continues to this day,” new schools in overcrowded areas,” said she said. “In the next five years alone, Arja. our district may need space for nearly To learn more, visit 17,000 new students. School impact fees www.sdhc.k12.fl.us.

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Summer Camps Offer Many Options To Keep Kids Active And Engaged Have you got the calendar ready? What should we do this summer? Where should we travel, what skills should we learn and how will we get there?

It’s that time of the year when parents are beginning to wonder how to keep the kids busy during the dog days of summer.

The staff at the Osprey Observer has collected the top recommendations for local summer camps and created this special pull-out section.

Busch Gardens’ Summer Day Camp for kids is a time to make new friends, try new things, come face-to-face with a giraffe and challenge North America’s tallest freestanding drop tower. Overnight Summer Resident Camp is a home away from home where you live what you love right at Busch Gardens!

Maybe your kids would like to spend the summer learning how to cook and use new kitchen utensils at Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium.

At Music Showcase, music and theater take the stage, and so can your child. Musicals will be offered where your child can hold starring roles in popular musicals offered by the Florida Academy of

Performing Arts for children ages 5 and up.

The local YMCAs will offer many types of camps at its great summer camp location, Camp Cristina in Riverview, which mixes fun along with great learning experiences. With plenty of choices, there is something for everyone.

Mathnasium offers ways to keep your children’s math skills from getting rusty in a fun environment.

Weekly themes utilizing age-specific activities and field trips are what make BSAC’s Camp High 5 unique.

Specialty camps for soccer (Florida Hawks FC), LEGO® (Bricks 4 Kidz) and art (Center Place) also offer great opportunities for creative and athletic summer learning.

Kids ‘R’ Kids at Circa FishHawk and Valrico offer full and half-day summer fun with weekly field trips and themes with it’s summer theme of #focusonfun.

For dates, prices and registration information on these camps and more, turn the pages, enjoy this special section and have a great summer.

Watch for our Summer Camp Sweepstakes link where the Osprey Observer will buy your child a week of camp at the summer camp of your choice!

Enter now by emailing subject line ‘Summer Camp Free’ to contest@ospreyobserver.com.

Did we miss a great summer camp option? Let us know by emailing subject line ‘Summer Camp’ to kquesada@ospreyobserver.com and we will be sure to add it to our full listing online.

Have a great summer of fun!

Fun And Education At Busch Gardens And Adventure Island Camps What could be more fun than spending the summer at one of the area’s most famous attractions? Starting in June, Busch Gardens and Adventure Islands are offering summer camps for students with a sense of adventure and fun.

According to Rebecca Romzek, public relations and communications leader with Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Adventure Island, camps are available for students from kindergarten to those heading to college.

“This year, Florida’s best thrill rides and breathtaking up-close animal encounters make Busch Gardens Tampa Bay the fan favorite choice for summer camp,” said Romzek. “Campers at Busch Gardens explore inspiring, exciting and educational experiences with immersive, multi-day camp programs for all interests.”

Camps, both day and residential, run weekly from June to August and offer students a wide variety of fun and educational options with the choice of signing up for three or five days at a time.

“Camp is all about making memories

Staff Report

At Busch Gardens and Adventure Islands’ summer camps, students learn while getting to enjoy all the parks have to offer.

with new friends while enjoying thrilling rides and world-class shows that can only be found at our parks,” said Romzek. “Come face-to-face with a giraffe or take on all-new attractions opening this spring. Spin and splash on Solar Vortex, America’s first dual tailspin water slide at Adventure Island, or take on Iron Gwazi, North America’s tallest hybrid coaster and the fastest and steepest hybrid coaster in the world at Busch Gardens.”

Campers can explore even more with complimentary admission into the park each day following camp.

Space is limited, so Romzek encourages residents to register today at www.buschgardens.com/tampa/summercamps.

A Great Array Of Creative Summer Camps Offered At The Patel Conservatory

By Kathy L. Collins

Spend your summer learning all about musical theater, dance, improv and more. The Patel Conservatory has a wide array of choices and would make a great option for people of all ages and abilities.

The Patel Conservatory, located at the David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts (Straz Center) in downtown Tampa, is offering a unique set of summer camp options.

This includes, but is not limited to, Acting Camp with three productions, such as Galactic Battles, Myths and Legends and Within the Wizarding World. There is an afternoon enrichment class available.

You can also choose to attend Improv Camp: ComedySportz or Making Movies and Music. Into musical theater? You can select from three Mini Musical Theater productions, featuring Backyard Beats, Troll Time Live! and Octo Exploration.

There are 10 Musical Theater Camps as well, featuring Broadway Rocks!,

Broadway Today, Kids on Broadway, Magic and Muggles, Mystery and Mayhem, On The High C's, Patel's Got Talent, Remake Remix, Spooktacular Tunes and Wiz-O-Mania.

You can also take part in camps featuring vocal musical instruments, dance and more.

Suzanne Livesay, the Straz Center's vice president of education, said, "Patel Conservatory camps are worth the drive to downtown. Our camps are not only fun but also provide excellent training in the performing arts, which develops confidence, creates camaraderie and engages creativity. The term 'conservatory' can be a little intimidating, but do not let it prevent you from exploring the many camps we offer for all ages and abilities."

Livesay added, "Our camps develop participants' performing arts skills at a variety of levels and always conclude with some form of showcase where campers demonstrate what they have learned throughout the session."

The Patel Conservatory has been offering summer camp for the past 15 years. Each year, it averages approximately 1,200 campers. The Conservatory offers scholarships and the deadline is Monday, April 13. To apply, visit strazcenter.org/financialaid. For more info, please visit patelconservatory.org.

Camp High 5 At BSAC Offers A Summer Of Fun For Children In The Community

Kids Step Into Their Favorite Stories At Performing Arts Summer Camps

Brandon Sports or program available and Aquatic Center for everyone and it (BSAC) will have works hard to provide the opportunity for low income families area children to with the opportunity to attend Camp High 5 participate on scholarat BSAC this sumship. “We offer scholmer. arships year-round,” “Camp High 5 Paruas said. “We at BSAC program is have scholarships going to be aweavailable for every some,” said BSAC’s This summer, children fwill have the opportu- program, from nity to attend Camp High 5 at BSAC. director of youth camps, swimming programming, Nicole lessons to dive team.”

Paruas. “Our summer Camp High 5 is in the camps, as well as all our process of finalizing its sumprograms, let kids be kids and have fun. mer camp program. “We are finalizing our The support staff we have for our camps new camp website, so families can begin are awesome and they make our camps registering for our camps very soon,” and programs very enriching for everyone Paruas said. “This year’s summer camps who attends.” are going to have weekly themes, offer The Brandon Sports and Aquatic field trips and so much more, all while Center is a community-based nonprofit making an impact on the lives of our organization. Its mission is to impact lives campers.” daily through superior educational and Proposed field trips include Sky athletic programming that enhances Zone, a Rays game, Astro Skate, Tampa physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Zoo and trips to local slash park pads. To BSAC focuses on four main pillars of learn more about Camp High 5 and the service: after-school care, youth drowning fun summer camps it will be offering this prevention, sports and recreation as well summer, you can visit www.mybsac.org as special needs education. or call 689-0908. BSAC is located at 405 BSAC goes above and beyond tradi- Beverly Dr. in Brandon. The hours of tional programming to make a real impact operation are weekdays, 8 a.m.-7 p.m., in the lives of children who attend any of Saturdays from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. and it is its programs or camps. There is a sport closed on Sundays.

As summer available for your quickly approachconvenience. es and the school Have a child year ends, that wants to rock thoughts of sumout this summer? mer camp regis‘Rockin’ with tration might Alex’ is a come to mind. summer rock Budding thespiband proans or just a child FAOPA’s summer camps offer children the gram with who likes to enter- chance to step into the role of a character camps geared for all from one of their favorite stories. tain will enjoy The experience levels.

Florida Academy of the Performing Arts at Director Debbie Evans said these Music Showcase’s (FAOPA) two types of programs offer children an outlet for summer camps for children ages 5 and expressing themselves and learning older. about emotions and public speaking.

Located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in “Whether it’s for a career in the arts or Brandon, FAOPA offers two-week, halfjust for having fun, music and musical day musical theater camps, from 9 a.m.-1 theater are great ways for children to gain p.m., that are structured by age, ability, self-confidence,” she said. interests and progress and feature live Valrico resident Julie Howard’s three productions at the end. daughters, Lily (13), Addison (10) and In past years, shows have included Rachael (8), have all participated in the Willy Wonka, Mamma Mia, Matilda, academy’s summer programs including Seussical, Elf and Les Mis. The Lion King and Willy Wonka.

The second type offered are the Music Showcase Owner Heather Music and More Camps, which are fullOchalek said the benefits to an arts eduday weeklong camps, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., cation can be seen in improved academic during select weeks. Campers will learn performance and increased self-esteem. to play instruments like drums, ukuleles “From our private lessons, rock band, and guitars. They can also learn to sing, string ensembles and musical theater to act, paint/make art, dance and more. The workshops and master classes, our two camp options can be combined to classes can spark creativity and innovacreate an entire day of fun and learning. tion,” she said. For further details, visit Free early drop-off and late pickup is FAOPA.org or call 490-2787.

By Libby Hopkins

By Michelle Caceres

Soccer Fun For Boys and Girls

The Florida Hawks Futbol Club has fun and educational camps for local soccer lovers.

The club is driven to develop great people by building the skill and character of its players on and off the field.

Soccer Fun with Coach Juan will take place Saturday to Wednesday, July 6-10 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for girls and boys born between 2008 and 2013. It will feature age-appropriate technical and tactical instruction from a professional coaching staff with smallsided games and daily 5 v 5, soccer tennis and soccer golf competitions.

Visit www.floridahawksfc.com to sign up or learn more.

Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium Is Cooking Up Some Summer Fun

Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium’s Summer Camps are a great way to learn new skills in the kitchen, create tasty recipes and meet lots of new friends. The only things you need to be prepared are closed toe shoes and a

restraint for shoulder-length hair. All of the ingredients, tools and even the fun are included.

Students are taught how to properly use real kitchen tools, knives and appliances safely under adult supervision.

Students will come away with the confidence to prepare dishes that are age appropriate and tasty. The goal is to encourage your child to be a help in the kitchen and to have fun while building a lifetime of good skills.

Cooking camps for kids ages 6-11 will take place from 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. daily and the tweens’ and teens’ summer camps, ages 11-15) will take place from 2-4 p.m.

Camps will take place weekly for four days and run from Monday, June 1 through Thursday, August 6.

Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium is located at Brandon Crossroads, 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon.

Call 653-2418 or visit www.rollingpinonline.com.

Straz Center Hosts Patel Conservatory Performing Arts Camps

The Patel Conservatory, located at the David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts (Straz Center) in downtown Tampa, is offering a unique set of summer camp options from acting to vocal musical instruments, dance and more. The Patel Conservatory has been offering summer camp for the past 15 years. Each year, it averages approximately 1,200 campers. Camps are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, so signing up early is strongly encouraged.

The Patel Conservatory offers scholarships for summer camp. You must apply, and the deadline is Monday, April 13. Please apply for a scholarship by visiting strazcenter.org/financialaid.

For more information on all that the Patel Conservatory has to offer this summer, please visit patelconservatory.org.

Bricks 4 Kidz Offers LEGO® Summer Camps

Bricks 4 Kidz is back with awesome LEGO® Summer Camps being offered all over the Brandon, Riverview and Valrico areas.

Join in for a different theme each week, such as Fortnite, Pokemon, Star Wars, Minecraft and much more.

Each week, campers will be build-

ing signature Bricks 4 Kidz robotic LEGO® models, very popular LEGO® mosaics and 3D LEGO® sculptures, as well as playing fun games and creating arts and crafts projects they will get to take home. At the end of each week, every camper will get to take home their very own LEGO® minifigure. Each day and week will be a brand-new LEGO® adventure you won’t want to miss.

Sign up at www.bricks4kidz.com/florida-tampa or call 545-4282.

Swimming To Horseback Riding And More At Local YMCA Camps

The Tampa Metropolitan YMCA summer camps are well known for offering something for every child. With multiple locations offering daily activities including swimming, science, high ropes, outdoor education, nature encounters, horseback riding, canoeing, visual arts and more the Y camps

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are always a local favorite with boys and girls alike!

In addition to a traditional camp called Activity Central, the YMCA offers specialty camps such as basketball, equestrian, extreme team, gymnastics, leadership, soccer, swimming, visual arts, science and performing arts to name a few.

Spots are filling fast with area locations including Brandon, Valrico, Riverview and SouthShore. To ensure your kids stay engaged socially, physically and academically throughout the summer, register today at www.tampaymca.org/letscamp.

Summer Fun at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay And Adventure Island

This year, Florida’s best thrill rides and breathtaking upclose animal encounters make Busch Gardens Tampa Bay the fan favorite choice for summer camp. From kindergarten to college-bound, campers at Busch Gardens will explore inspiring,

KIDS

Summer Camps (Ages 6-11) 10:30am - 1:00pm

exciting and educational experiences with immersive, multi-day camp programs for all interests.

Camp is all about making memories with new friends while enjoying thrilling rides and worldclass shows that can only be found at its parks.

Come face-to-face with a giraffe or take on all-new attractions opening this spring. Spin and splash on Solar Vortex, America’s first dual tailspin water slide at Adventure Island, or take on Iron Gwazi, North America’s tallest hybrid coaster and the fastest and steepest hybrid coaster in the world at Busch Gardens. Campers can explore even more with complimentary admission into the park each day following camp.

Weekly offerings vary by camp but run from June to August with three and five-day camps with an overnight option available. Camps are open to students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Space is limited.

To register today, visit https://buschgardens.com/tampa/summer-camps/.

Fun And Education Spins Throughout The Summer At Kids ‘R’ Kids

Kids ‘R’ Kids is excited to launch a

June 1 - 4 June 8 - 11 June 15 - 18 June 22 - 25 June 29 - July 2 July 6 - 10 July 13 - 16 July 20 - 23 July 27 - 30 August 3-6

TWEEN’S & TEENS

Summer Camps (Ages 11-15) 2:00pm - 4:30pm

Brandon’s Big Green “EggQuarters”

new twist on camp where kids are redefining summer and turning ordinary days into the extraordinary.

Just as fragments inside a kaleidoscope fuse together to captivate us with a new perspective, Kaleidoscope 360° will spin this summer into a unique dimension of discovery, fun and friendships through various weekly themes. This summer promises a well-supervised, engaging and enriching camp for preschool and elementary-aged children.

Extended hours, meals/snacks, weekly field trips, sports and more are available.

Summer camp is offered at both Kids ‘R’ Kids locations: Circa FishHawk on 5815 Kids Crossing Dr. (next to Stowers Elementary and Mosaic), visit www.KRKCirca.com or call 654-7000, and at 4321 Lynx Paw Trl. in Valrico (across from Lithia Springs Elementary), visit www.KRKValrico.com or call 6576200.

BSAC Offers Field Trips, Swimming And More

The Brandon Sports and Aquatics Center (BSAC) is offering Camp High Five this summer, using superior educational and athletic programming to enhance students’ physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Camps will have weekly themes,

offering field trips to locations including SkyZone, a Tampa Bay baseball game, Lowry Park Zoo and local splash park pads.

To learn more about Camp High Five and the fun summer camps it will be offering this summer, visit www.mybsac.org or call 689-0908.

BSAC is located at 405 Beverly Dr. in Brandon. The hours of operation are weekdays from 8 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturdays from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. and it is closed on Sundays.

Music and Acting Camps Offered Through Music Showcase

Budding thespians or just children who like to entertain will enjoy The Florida Academy of the Performing Arts at Music Showcase’s (FAOPA) two types of summer camps for children ages 5 and older.

Located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon, FAOPA offers two-week, halfday musical theater camps, from 9

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a.m.-1 p.m., that are structured by age, ability, interests and progress and feature live productions at the end.

Parents will enjoy watching their children bring the musical to life in the auditorium, which is equipped with a professional sound and lighting system, costumes, props and set design.

The second type offered are the Music and More Camps, which are full-day weeklong camps, from 9 a.m.5 p.m., during select weeks. Campers will learn to play instruments like drums, ukuleles and guitars.

They can also learn to sing, act, paint/make art, dance and more.

The two camp options can be combined to create an entire day of fun and learning. Free early drop-off and late pickup is available for your convenience.

For more information about summer camps or any of FAOPA’s other programs, visit FAOPA.org or call 4902787.

Combat Dreaded Summer Slide With Mathnasium Of Brandon

Mathnasium Brandon offers a variety of ways students can power up their math skills and have fun this summer. From mini camps to summer

sessions, there is something for every student.

There are two options for mini camps, which run from Monday, June 1 through Friday, July 31. Students can either do the traditional Camp Mathnasium or STEM Camp, which includes additional fun such as robotics, LEGO Mindstorm EV3, experiments and pizza parties.

Summer sessions, where students attend 13 times during the first nine weeks of summer, start on June 1.

Students can also sign up for Summer Power Math Workout Programs, which include Numerical Fluency, Multiplication Fact Fluency, Problem-Solving, Algebra and Geometry Readiness and SAT/ACT Workshops.

Fun in the Mathnasium Sun will also offer weekly attendance contests, game time, Fun Fridays, chess club, summer bingo and movie nights.

Experts say that the effects of a summer learning program, such as Mathnasium’s, will make a positive difference for students moving forward.

Call 655-MATH (6284) or visit www.mathnasium.com/brandon/.

Mathnasium of Brandon is located at 1048 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico (Plaza Bella shopping center).

Sports Fun At The MAC

The MAC Gym in Brandon is offering basketball, volleyball and soccer camps in June and July. The basketball camps are open for 7 to 14-yearolds, soccer is available for 7 to 12year-olds and volleyball, which has both co-ed and girls camps, is available for 8 to 14-year-olds. There will also be a basketball camp from Monday to Friday, July 27-31 for 10 to 14-yearolds.

The camps run from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. and lunch is available to purchase, or campers may bring their own from home.

An email will be sent on the weekend before camp with details.

Camps fill up fast! Registration forms for MAC summer sports camps can be picked up at the MAC front desk or downloaded online. Form and registration fees may be dropped off at the MAC front desk.

To learn more or to get the reg-

istration form, visit https://themac gym.org/summersports-camps/. MAC is located at 216 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon and can be reached at 315-3280.

Power Up With Mathnasium Of West Brandon

Kids can power up this summer with Mathnasium of West Brandon in-center or through its Mathnasium @home online tutoring program.

The summer slide is real, and students can lose over two months of mathematical skills every summer.

Mathnasium can help prevent that with its Power Up summer programs.

“Take advantage of the more relaxed environment of summer break, which is a golden opportunity to improve math performance whether your student is struggling or just wanting to dig deeper into their math studies,” suggested Jill Andrews, center director at Mathnasium of West Brandon.

Mathnasium’s @home program is an additional benefit for students who would like to keep up their

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skills but are traveling. You can take Mathnasium anywhere with Mathnasium @home.

Mathnasium will help parents choose a Summer Power Workout Plan, such as numerical fluency, fractions, multiplication fluency, problem-solving, algebra readiness, geometry readiness and so much more based on a diagnostic assess-

ment of the student.

Call 333-6676 or visit www.mathnasium.com/westbrandon to schedule your student’s free assessment and get started at your neighborhood center or at home with the Mathnasium @home program and help your student Power Up this summer!

Mathnasium of West Brandon summer hours will be MondayThursday from 2-7 p.m. It is located at 10268 Causeway Blvd. in Tampa.

Center Place Fine Arts Offer Summer Art Camp To Brighten The Day

Who knew that art could be so much fun? This summer, register your 7 to 13-year-old to discover their love of painting, drawing, pottery and more. Classes are offered Monday to Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and include Art Mural, Animal Paintings, Pencil Drawings Cruise Around the World, West & Wild Canvases, Ceramic Sculpture, Recycled Art, Landscape Drawings, Paper Sculptures, Space Art, Mixed Media and more. Center Place is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon. For more information or to register, visit www.centerplacebrandon.org or call 685-8888.

Editor’s Note: Are we missing a great Summer Camp opportunity? Email our Assignment Editor kquesada@ospreyobserver.com with subject line Summer Camp to add an additional camp to our guide. Please note dates and details subect to change.

CIRCA FISHHAWK 813 654 7000

5815 Kids Crossing Drive

VALRICO 813 657 6200

4321 Lynx Paw Trail

(Located next to Stowers Elementary and Mosaic)

(Located across fromLithia Springs Elementary)

Lic # CHC432384

Lic # CHC431024

www.KRKCirca.com

www.KRKValrico.com

YMCA Offers Fun And Exciting Summer Camps At 16 Tampa Bay Locations

By Libby Hopkins

Tampa YMCA is hosting a summer full of great camps for children.

Summer is just a few short months away, but the YMCA is already gearing up for months full of fun camps.

“We offer children a day camp curriculum full of fun, educational activities,” said Lalita Llerena, senior communications director for the Tampa Metropolitan YMCA. “Activity specialists lead campers through various unique experiences each day, including swimming, science, high ropes, outdoor education, nature encounters, horseback riding, canoeing, visual arts and more. These fun and unique experiences give Y campers an opportunity to explore the outdoors, meet new friends, discover new interests and create memories that last a lifetime.”

In the YMCA summer camp, children are in a welcoming environment where they can feel like they belong, build relationships, develop character and discover their potential. “In addition to a traditional

day camp called ‘Activity Central,’ the YMCA offers specialty camps such as basketball, equestrian, extreme team, gymnastics, leadership, soccer, swimming, visual arts, science and performing arts, to name a few,” Llerena said.

“Parents have the option to add on before and after-care activities, which include swimming, horseback riding, sports and high ropes. Activities and specialty options vary by location.”

The YMCA’s goal for its summer camps is to make all who attend happy. “We guarantee an exciting summer filled with lots of memorable moments,” Llerena said. “Our camp staff members are kind, trustworthy individuals committed to creating a safe place for campers to practice social skills and character values.”

“Some kids can experience learning loss and gain weight twice as fast than during the school year,” Llerena said.

“That’s why the Tampa YMCA offers summer camp, to make sure kids and teens in the Tampa Bay area are adventurous, active and healthy this summer.” Spots are filling up fast at 16 locations across Hillsborough and East Pasco Counties.

To ensure your kids stay engaged socially, physically and academically throughout the summer, register today at www.tampaymca.org/letscamp.

Tampa Kids Camp To Host Benefit Dinner With Special Keynote Speaker

By Amanda Boston

Tampa Kids With a ratio of Camp exists to one adult to one make the lives of child, campers foster children betreceive extra attenter through lifetion and the ‘royal changing summer treatment’ in a safe camps. This sumand caring environmer, the nonprofit ment. Counselors will host two camps demonstrate unconfor foster children ditional love while ages 6-15 who helping to create have experienced positive memories abuse, abandonThe campers come from backgrounds of and building selfabuse, neglect and abandonment. ment or neglect. worth.

The 100 percent volunteer-operated The ‘Royal Family KIDS Camp’ is for camps are free to the campers. To raise children ages 6-11. The weeklong funds and awareness, Tampa Kids Camp overnight camp will be held from June 15will hold a benefit dinner at The Regent in 19. Along with traditional camp activities, Riverview on Thursday, March 26 at 6:30 the week will include a carnival, birthday p.m. The dinner will feature a silent aucbash, waterworks and much more. tion and a keynote speaker. Loryn Smith, The ‘Royal Teen Camp’ is for ages M.S.W., the owner and CEO of Finally 12-15 with two separate sessions. The Home Christian Adoption Services, has boys’ camp will be held from Thursday to the keynote speaker honors.

Saturday, July 9-11 and the girls’ camp Smith, a mother of 20 children of from Monday to Wednesday, July 13-15. which 13 are adopted, will speak about All counselors undergo background her 30 plus years of experience in the checks and training. To find out more or child welfare system. More information on to volunteer, Smith and her adoption agency can be visit www.TampaKidsCamp.org. found at www.finallyhomecas.com.

Tickets to the benefit dinner may also Smith has also been a camp therabe purchased online. All proceeds go pist and said this regarding the camp, toward sponsorships for foster kids to “Children have the opportunity to be ‘norattend summer camp. Corporate sponmal kids’ for a week in a structured, healsorships are also available. For any quesing environment.” tions, email camp@tampakidscamp.org.

“Soccer Fun with Coach Juan”

Boys and Girls

born between 2013 and 2008 July 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 2020 9.00 am to 1.00 pm

D E N D O B T P E T T A S D PO NEW

Soccer Fields of the FishHawk Sports Complex Lithia FL

Your child must bring: • Readiness to have a lot of fun playing soccer • Cleats, shin guards, and a ball • Snack • Water bottle

$195.00 if registered before April 15, 2020 $215.00 if registered after April 15, 2020 CAMP FEATURES:

Age appropriate technical and tactical instruction • Small sided games • Daily 5 v 5 Competitions Daily Soccer Tennis and Soccer Golf Competitions • Professional coaching staff Athletic Trainer onsite • Hydration Station • Camp T Shirt Registration:www.floridahawksfc.com Contact Juan E De Brigard, Director of Coaching, Florida Hawks FC | doc@floridahawksfc.com • Cell # 754 244 3016

March 2020

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

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Page 38

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 15, Issue 3

Photos courtesy of

Bloomingdale Baseball Retires Baltimore Orioles Shortstop And Former Bull’s Number On February 27, Richie Martin became the first player in Bloomingdale High School baseball history to have his #12 jersey retired. Bloomingdale held a ceremony at its baseball field before its game against East Bay. The only other person to have his number retired at Bloomingdale is former Head Coach K. B. Scull (#8), who the field is named after.

Bloomingdale baseball alumni had gathered around the mound as Baltimore Orioles shortstop Richie Martin threw out the ceremonial first pitch to his former high school teammate and current catcher in the Atlanta Braves organization, Sal Giardina Jr. The crowd of former teammates, families and friends went wild as Martin threw a strike down the middle of the plate for a strike.

“We all knew right away that Richie was something special his freshman year,” said Giardina. “He flashed great qualities as a player and was mature beyond his years. He was one of the hardest working and most humble guys on the team and is still like that to this day. I’m grateful that I had the chance to share the field with him in high school. As much of an awesome player he is, he is an even better person—one of the

cial because he leads by example. He shows everyone, young and old, that there’s only one way to play this game, and that’s hard, all the time, regardless of score or inning or result.”

Bloomingdale Head Coach Kris Wilken said that Martin’s baseball instincts, worth ethic and God-given Richie Martin stands with former Bloomingdale baseball players ability are what make him after he threw out the first pitch. such a great baseball player. most genuine people you will ever meet.” ed by the Wilken expressed how Martin played for Bloomingdale from Baltimore Orioles Martin’s greatest asset is his 2009-2012, becoming one of the most with the first over- Richie Martin and Bloomingdale for- character first and foremost. mer Head Coach Kris Wilken. decorated Bulls in the history of the proall pick in the “Thank you to him for gram, starting all four years on varsity. As 2018 Rule 5 Draft. He made his MLB never changing who he is and never fora senior, he hit .438 and was selected to debut on Opening Day 2019 against the getting where he came from,” said the all-state team. Martin was drafted out New York Yankees. He played 90 games Wilken. “He was a great player, but I miss of high school in the 38th round of the as shortstop last season for the Orioles, coaching him because of what he was 2012 MLB draft, but he decided to go to finishing his rookie season with six home and still is as a person way more than college and play for the University of runs and 10 stolen bases. He expects to anything he did on the field.”

Florida instead. At UF, he started all three compete for a roster spot in 2020 with Wilson will always remember playing seasons, coming up one game short of Baltimore. with Martin and is one of his biggest fans. winning the College World Series against Austin Wilson came in as a freshman “He deserves it, every bit of it. I Virginia in his final junior season. starter with Martin in 2009. Wilson, who is mean, the kid is a big leaguer,” said Martin was then selected in the first now an assistant coach at Bloomingdale, Wilson. “I couldn’t be happier for him and round (20th overall) of the 2015 draft by remains close friends with Martin and wish him nothing but the best. It’s aweBilly Bean and the Oakland Athletics. He reminisces playing alongside him. “He some to see the number 12 out there in played in the Oakland minor league sysplays the game the same way all the center field for the rest of time.” tem for four seasons before being selecttime,” said Wilson. “A guy like that is spe-

4/22/2020

4/22/2020

4/22/2020

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS Call today to schedule an appointment.

813-530-0903

631 W. Lumsden Rd. | Brandon, FL 33511

March 2020

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Veteran Flag Football Coach Larry Langston Takes Over At Bloomingdale High School

By Nick Nahas

The High School.

Bloomingdale Langston was flag football immediately program has drawn to the a new head Bloomingdale coach at the job when it helm as they became open try to build off because of the The 2020 Bloomingdale flag football team. of last year’s winning tradisuccess, making it to the district champition the school has built athletically. This onship game. is also his first year teaching at Fourteen-year veteran flag football Chamberlain. This is a huge commitment coach Larry Langston is the longestbecause he has to drive for about an tenured coach in Hillsborough County. He hour and 10 minutes from his teaching takes over the Bloomingdale program job to Bloomingdale for two-hour pracafter longtime coach Mike Lankford tices every day. stepped down over the summer.

“Coach Langston brings a lot of new Langston coached at his alma mater, techniques and visions to our team,” said Plant City, for eight years before heading sophomore flag football player and class to Brandon as an assistant coach. After a president Hayley Robinson. “We are couple of years as an assistant, he got working together to get where we need to promoted to head coach, where he built be. We were in a fall league and have up an Eagles program that previously done some tournaments, which have averaged less than two wins per season. been a great start to where we are headIn his four years at Brandon, they won ed. The coaches have high expectations two district championships. for us and it has made us more competiLangston has had great success tive.” coaching flag football. He led the Plant The league contains all of the surCity Raiders to five district titles and two rounding teams from the area, such as straight final fours, including a state Newsome, East Bay, Durant, Riverview championship game appearance in 2008, and Lennard. The regular season started and an overall record of 83-13. He also on March 3 at home vs. Lennard. has run an adult flag football league for Langston hopes to compete for a disthe last 25 years called the Tampa Bay trict title this season and eventually bring Flag Football Association (TBFFA).

Bloomingdale its first flag football state Langston was born and raised in the championship.

Plant City area. He previously worked for “We want to compete at the state the Hillsborough County Parks and level every year, and we want our chance Recreation Department for over 15 years at the state championship every before becoming a teacher six years ago. year,” said Langston. “We want to bring He now teaches AVID at Chamberlain one home for sure.”

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 15, Issue 3